GM Steve -- We really gonna measure it out and leave scraps behind? Tuesday September 10th, 2019 7:58:12 PM Caelwyn responds to Flitch's comment about who would build the boat and what size it would be. "I confess we haven't thought much about that...we could probably find someone to help craft the boat for us, I don't think we have the skill. Good to know that we only need wood for the frames..."
Grindar begins, "As Caelwyn said, we will probably need assistance with the build, but as far as size, I figure one that is large enough to hold 8 or 9 medium sized people, with room for animal friends".
Bigby spreads out arms and starts measureing how many bigby arm spans it takes to build the skiff.
'Lil, wanting to get some sleep and go adventurin' again, takes a practical approach. "I think the right answer is 'all the druid wood we can secure, and that we can carry' right? We really gonna measure it out and leave scraps behind?"
Sol nods. "I agree with Lil, surely we will just bring back as much as we possibly can? There is no point in leaving any behind."
. If you are done looking through the Stone Temple, Flitch says, "Well, I guess you'd best start preparing for your journey." As you are leaving, he asks you to come with him back to his office. "You'll need directions on what you're looking for. Give me time to gather that information -- say, day after tomorrow. Meanwhile, I best give you a letter of recommendation. Won't do a whole lot for you, but it may keep prices down." Once you are at this office, he writes a hasty note saying that you are preparing for a journey of some importance to the community, and asking the merchants to help you as they are able. After he applies his seal, he hands it to Sol. "If you think of any other questions for me, you are also welcome to return tomorrow, of course."
Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 25/29 Wednesday September 11th, 2019 5:40:07 AM
Thank you Flitch, your assistance is very welcome. As they leave he says to his friends, I'm going to take my share of the 5000 in gems and use it to get Cyrchwr Mawr upgraded in the morning, hopefully it'll be done before we leave.
BigbyWolf ( Michael) 25/25 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 Wednesday September 11th, 2019 11:52:04 AM
Bigby hears 'Lil say that its waste of time measure the skiff and he puts his arms down. He rejoins the group.
'Lil - (Carl) - 26/26 HP - AC 17/11/16 - CMD 15 Wednesday September 11th, 2019 3:12:24 PM
"Bed time, then? Looking this good takes serious beauty sleep, ya know?" She links elbows with Grindar and Sol, then ushers everyone out of the room. She pulls out the rod she took earlier, wonderin' how you bonded with such a thing. Maybe you just slept with it under your pillow? Couldn't hurt. She'd try that...
Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 9/9 AC/T/FF:11/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour d4+1=4 ; d4+1=3 ; Wednesday September 11th, 2019 5:00:15 PM
Sol laughs heartily as Lil links arms with him and guides him out, but he dutifully heads to bed, a broad grin on his face.
Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 27/27; CMD: 15 Wednesday September 11th, 2019 8:50:52 PM
Caelwyn also thanks the monks and heads out, thinking about what they will need to obtain tomorrow before their journey.
GM Steve -- Looking this good takes serious beauty sleep Wednesday September 11th, 2019 10:57:13 PM Grindar says, "Thank you Flitch, your assistance is very welcome." As they leave he tells his friends, some of his plans to prepare for the journey.
Bigby hears 'Lil say that its waste of time measure the skiff and he puts his arms down. He rejoins the group.
'Lil says, "Bed time, then? Looking this good takes serious beauty sleep, ya know?" She links elbows with Grindar and Sol, then ushers everyone out of the room, thinking about something else.
Sol laughs heartily as Lil links arms with him and guides him out, but he dutifully heads to bed, a broad grin on his face.
Caelwyn also thanks the monks and heads out, thinking about what they will need to obtain tomorrow before their journey.
. The night passes uneventfully, and by the next day rumors are already flying. At breakfast Blain starts in, "They say you're going to leave us -- to look for druid wood. Can I come? I can fight, I've been practicing." This earns you a glare from Auntie, before you have any chance to explain yourselves.
You spend the day in preparation. (The letter, it turns out, simply lets you obtain items at standard prices rather than the inflated prices typical here.)
Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 25/29 Thursday September 12th, 2019 5:54:58 AM "Well my friend", Grindar answers Blain, "I have no doubt of your fighting spirit, but someone needs to stay here and protect your sister, and Auntie. Can I trust you to help me out in this matter, it would set my mind at rest a bit knowing that someone is looking out for them in our absence".
'Lil - (Carl) - 26/26 HP - AC 17/11/16 - CMD 15 Thursday September 12th, 2019 12:04:20 PM
'Lil wakes up with a crick in her neck. "This is the lousiest pillow I ever had," she groans as she wakes. She pops her neck a few times and rolls her shoulders, then tosses the pillow across the room.
There's a sleek longspear there. "Oh yea, the rod," she says to no one in particular as she picks it up. She twirls it a few times in her fingers. "Yea, you and I are gonna be friends. What to name you, though?" 'Lil puts a finger to her lips and thinks. "Maya. You look like a Maya. Hey guys! Say hey to Maya. Ain't she pretty!" She puts her new toy away and gets ready for the day.
BigbyWolf ( Michael) 25/25 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 Thursday September 12th, 2019 1:41:56 PM
Bigby says "hello Maya." Bigby trusts Grindar to handle the issue with Blain and just adds, "next time Blain...you'll get your turn one day."
Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 25/29 Thursday September 12th, 2019 5:24:57 PM ”Maya you say? Grindar responds, ”A good name for a good weapon!”
Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 27/27; CMD: 15 Thursday September 12th, 2019 8:39:58 PM
"Excellent...that could come in handy, who knows what else we might encounter out there! Time to make sure we have enough provisions and weapons for our journey. We must be prepared."
GM Steve -- Looking this good takes serious beauty sleep Thursday September 12th, 2019 11:14:33 PM
Grindar (to Blain): "I have no doubt of your fighting spirit, but someone needs to stay here and protect your sister, and Auntie. Can I trust you to help me out in this matter, it would set my mind at rest a bit knowing that someone is looking out for them in our absence".
'Lil (to her weapon): "Yea, you and I are gonna be friends. What to name you, though? . . . Maya. You look like a Maya. Hey guys! Say hey to Maya. Ain't she pretty!"
Bigby: "Hello Maya . . . next time Blain -- you'll get your turn one day."
Caelwyn: "Excellent...that could come in handy, who knows what else we might encounter out there! Time to make sure we have enough provisions and weapons for our journey. We must be prepared."
. As hoped, Blain takes his new-found role as a protector of the caravan seriously. Seeing how you've handled this, the merchants of the caravan start offering advice -- You should expect the monks to ask for a share of any wood you find . . . Yes, but don't be afraid to bargain for it. They should do more than point the way and send you off . . . Look for things that will benefit you both . . . Don't ask the monks for things the community can provide, the merchants are rooting for you, too . . . Expect the merchants to want a share of the wood, too . . . Don't trip over each other in negotiations. Discuss things beforehand or pick one of you to speak for the group . . .
.
Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 9/9 AC/T/FF:11/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour d4+1=4 ; d4+1=3 ; Friday September 13th, 2019 2:38:40 AM
Sol listens to the advice, and notes it all down in his book, to refer to later, thanking each merchant that he hears. Though he doesn't buy anything, he listens closely to what the merchants have to say.
Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 25/29 Friday September 13th, 2019 6:08:17 AM
Grindar hears the advice and thanks the well wishers. he than picks up the party treasure, and says to his friends shall we go sell this stuff? He gets to Auntie's caravan and looks for the wagon that appears to be buying and selling weapons. he then lays the bundle on the table, and says, "We have accumulated these various items, in our travels so far. We have no use for them, would you be willing to take them off our hands? At a reasonable price of course!" He then puts Cyrchwr Mawr on the counter and asks, I'm not sure if it's possible, but can you reforge both ends of this Orc Double Ax upgrading it to masterwork quality? Normally I would just purchase a new one, but this was my fathers ax, and as such it is precious to me".
BigbyWolf ( Michael) 25/25 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 Friday September 13th, 2019 11:34:18 AM
Bigby takes it in and waits to go.
'Lil - (Carl) - 26/26 HP - AC 17/11/16 - CMD 15 Friday September 13th, 2019 3:55:29 PM
'Lil's ready to go.
*Leaving for vacation today, so low effort post.
GM Steve -- We have accumulated these various items Friday September 13th, 2019 11:33:37 PM Sol listens closely to what the merchants say.
Grindar tries to make some trades and upgrade his axe.
Bigby takes it in and waits to go.
'Lil is ready to go.
. "I'm sorry," one man tells Grindar, "You can't add the masterwork quality to a weapon after it is created; it must be crafted as a masterwork weapon." Grindar is able to make his other trades for an equitable amount.
Other than trading, the group makes a lazy day of it, while preparing to return to the Stone Temple for directions the following day as Flitch had asked.
Ooc: Best I know, you can do any trades in the catacombs or you can do non-magical ones in character. If you intend to do it in character here, you'll need to be more explicit what you have.
Also, Grindar seems to be wounded, but has just had a night's rest and will have at least one more before you leave.
Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 25/29 Sunday September 15th, 2019 1:20:56 PM Thanks anyway" Grindar says to the clerk, "Maybe someday, I'll be able to find a Orc or Half-Orc master craftsman who specializes in Orcish Weapons, and maybe they can make my dream come true, Oh and thanks for taking the items off our hands as well.".
After that he wonders into a place he finds out is a magical shop called the Catacombs, after spending sometime there, he places an order, then heads out to meet up with his friends. He immediately divides the proceeds from the sales evenly with his comrades and says, "While I was there, I discovered this magical store known as the Catacombs. I don't know how I got there, but I'm certain that I wasn't in the Sargrass anymore after I walked through a door that was at the caravan. This shop was amazing, if you can think of it, they have it, for a price. While I was there, I ordered a Masterwork Orc Double Ax. I was thinking about selling Cyrchwr Mawr, but decided to keep him, He is my father's ax after all, and maybe someday I'll be able to find someone with the proper skills to upgrade it, or hang it in a place of honor, if we ever get a place to call home. I just hope the new ax which I'm planning on naming Bwyell (Welsh for ax)arrives before we leave".
OOC... That should put us to our WBL if Ryan's math is correct
Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 27/27; CMD: 15 Sunday September 15th, 2019 11:42:35 PM
Caelwyn is interested in purchasing some provisions for the trip and making sure all their equipment is ready to go. Other than that, he is pretty content with the weapons that he has at his disposal.
BigbyWolf ( Michael) 25/25 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 d20+10=21 ; Monday September 16th, 2019 11:42:20 AM
Bigby decides to go on a hunt while waiting. 21 survival. "any are welcome to hunt with us."
'Lil - (Carl) - 26/26 HP - AC 17/11/16 - CMD 15 Monday September 16th, 2019 12:08:55 PM
'Lil don't hunt, and she ain't got nothing to buy. She spends some time practicing with Maya, and fashions a setup that lets it be strapped to her back parallel to Ramona.
Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 9/9 AC/T/FF:11/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour d4+1=4 ; d4+1=3 ; Monday September 16th, 2019 6:32:24 PM
Sol simply makes notes of everything that he's missed in the last few days because of travels and fighting, and watches what the others do, as he has little enough funds that he dare not use some on things he doesn't definitely need.
GM Steve -- We have accumulated these various items d20=16 ; d100=27 ; d20=6 ; d20=17 ; Monday September 16th, 2019 11:24:55 PM Grindar shops at a magical shop called the Catacombs. After spending sometime there, he places an order, then heads out to meet up with his friends. He immediately divides the proceeds from the sales evenly with his comrades and says, "While I was there, I ordered a Masterwork Orc Double Ax. I was thinking about selling Cyrchwr Mawr, but decided to keep him, I just hope the new ax which I'm planning on naming Bwyell arrives before we leave".
Caelwyn is interested in purchasing some provisions for the trip and making sure all their equipment is ready to go. Other than that, he is pretty content with the weapons that he has at his disposal.
Bigby decides to go on a hunt while waiting. "Any are welcome to hunt with us." He gathers enough to feed 6 for a day.
'Lil spends some time practicing with Maya, and fashions a setup that lets it be strapped to her back parallel to Ramona.
Sol simply makes notes of everything that he's missed in the last few days because of travels and fighting, and watches what the others do, as he has little enough funds that he dare not use some on things he doesn't definitely need.
. The party spend the day making their purchases, practicing, and hunting.
The next day, you return to the temple to talk with the monks and get the directions they promised. Attius and Flitch are there, but so is Edith Culliver. The monks act as if they aren't quite sure what to do with her. She seems aware of their discomfort.
"Do come in. All ready for your trip, or are you planning on an early start tomorrow?" Flitch asks.
Attius says, "Or have you come to your senses? A long trip without a larger group is foolishness."
Edith adds, a bit disdainfully, "What these two are beating around without saying is that in exchange for the information you need, the location of druid wood, they want something from you. So do I, for that matter, but I'm ready to pay a fair price."
. (OOC: Items purchased at the Catacombs will be available before your departure. If the store isn't being quickly manned, you'll have carried them with you when the exchange goes through..)
Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 25/29 Tuesday September 17th, 2019 6:29:08 AM
When Grindar wakes up, he finds a package at the foot of his bed. He quickly realizes that his order has arrived, so he tears open the packaging to reveal an exquisitely crafted orc double ax. Carved on both blades in elegantly carved Orcish runes is the name of the weapon "Bwyell". Grindar doesn't remember telling the store keep the name he planned on giving the ax, and is amazed that the smiths at the Catacombs some how knew. He picks Bwyell up and twirls her around a few times feeling the amazing balance of the fine craftsmanship. He then heads out to meet up with his friends saying, "Bwyell arrived, isn't she lovely?"
When they arrive at the temple, Grindar shakes his head, thinking to himself, "It's always something", though he keeps his thoughts to himself, and simply asks, "What would you like us to do for you?
'Lil - (Carl) - 26/26 HP - AC 17/11/16 - CMD 15 Tuesday September 17th, 2019 10:11:45 AM
"Well, out with it," says 'Lil. Ain't nothing wrong with askin' for something if you're willing to pay for it, after all...
BigbyWolf ( Michael) 25/25 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 Tuesday September 17th, 2019 11:35:36 AM
Bigby totally excited that hes got lunch and holds up the hunt, "snacks for the road trip." He then hears the conversation, nods and points in approval to what 'Lil said.
Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 9/9 AC/T/FF:11/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour d4+1=4 ; d4+1=3 ; Tuesday September 17th, 2019 5:57:03 PM
Sol raises an eyebrow at the three assembled, particularly at Attius.
"Let me get this clear in my own mind... you warn us that it is too dangerous to undertake this journey, yet you wish to add more pressure to it by asking us to do something in addition to bringing back some druid wood?"
Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 27/27; CMD: 15 Tuesday September 17th, 2019 8:52:12 PM
Caelwyn smiles wryly at the monks. "Protecting your settlement wasn't payment enough, eh? Well, what else do you need?"
GM Steve -- Let me get this clear in my own mind Tuesday September 17th, 2019 11:56:21 PM Grindar receives his new ax. "Bwyell arrived, isn't she lovely?" When they arrive at the temple, Grindar shakes his head, though he keeps his thoughts to himself, and simply asks, "What would you like us to do for you?"
'Lil says, "Well, out with it. Ain't nothing wrong with askin' for something if you're willing to pay for it, after all..."
Bigby totally excited that hes got lunch and holds up the hunt, "snacks for the road trip." He then hears the conversation, nods and points in approval to what 'Lil said.
Sol raises an eyebrow at the three assembled, particularly at Attius. "Let me get this clear in my own mind... you warn us that it is too dangerous to undertake this journey, yet you wish to add more pressure to it by asking us to do something in addition to bringing back some druid wood?"
Caelwyn smiles wryly at the monks. "Protecting your settlement wasn't payment enough, eh? Well, what else do you need?"
. Attius replies to Sol first, "I am still convinced that it would be better for you to bring more settlers first, then mount a reasonably equipped expedition for druid wood. Be that as it may, we have already agreed to help you find the wood. The druids have been settling in the south. The only one we've actually seen is at the foot of the mountains -- just follow them south and you'll find him."
After a moment of silence, Flitch adds, "When you find the druid wood. . . Well, Rattledam is not the only community that would benefit from having it. We would like to share it with you. Contrary to whatever Edith imagines here, though, we are not simply demanding wood in exchange for the information you've been given." He puts a box on the table, about six inches cubed. "This box contains a crystal. It had healing properties, but we have repurposed it to find druid wood. Right now it points into the temple here, where the skiff is. But if you take it from here, as you get closer to a grove it will begin pointing the way for you. So you needn't fear getting lost."
While you are considering what the monks have said, Edith speaks up. "You -- and you, too, Attius and Flitch -- will need more than the wood itself. You need the craftsmen who can turn it into something useful. There are a group of us can help you find the right ones, if we can find a way to work with you and not become competitors."
Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 25/29 Wednesday September 18th, 2019 5:44:58 AM
Grindar thinks to himself, "Just how much wood are we going to have to haul back?" but says, "Do you have suggestions as to how to haul all this wood back? There are only the five of us, and some of us, though they bring necessary and appreciated skills to the group, aren't really cut out for manual labor",
Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 29/29 Wednesday September 18th, 2019 5:50:20 AM
fixed header
'Lil - (Carl) - 26/26 HP - AC 17/11/16 - CMD 15 Wednesday September 18th, 2019 10:33:28 AM
'Lil elbows Grindar & nods her head at the skiff. "We could use that. Put a bunch'a the wood on it and haul it behind us. Should be easy enough to pull if it floats, especially for a big guy like you."
She frowns. "Course, that gem might not work if we do that. Maybe it'll start picking up the druids anyway since they probably got more wood than this skiff does?"
BigbyWolf ( Michael) 25/25 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 Wednesday September 18th, 2019 11:39:49 AM
"perhaps some animals to help haul stuff back?"
Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 9/9 AC/T/FF:11/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour d4+1=4 ; d4+1=3 ; Wednesday September 18th, 2019 5:55:46 PM
Sol nods.
"Getting a good amount of druid wood back could be difficult, perhaps we can make some sort of cart... or perhaps a sled?"
GM Steve -- Do you have suggestions Wednesday September 18th, 2019 11:28:52 PM Grindar thinks to himself, "Just how much wood are we going to have to haul back?" but says, "Do you have suggestions as to how to haul all this wood back?"
'Lil elbows Grindar and nods her head at the skiff. "We could use that. Put a bunch'a the wood on it and haul it behind us. Should be easy enough to pull if it floats, especially for a big guy like you. Course, that gem might not work if we do that. Maybe it'll start picking up the druids anyway since they probably got more wood than this skiff does?"
Bigby suggests, "Perhaps some animals to help haul stuff back?"
Sol nods. "Getting a good amount of druid wood back could be difficult, perhaps we can make some sort of cart... or perhaps a sled?"
. Attius seems a bit amused. "Surely you realized druid trees are trees. I understand even small ones can be quite heavy, especially while they're still green. I suppose that you may have expected to gather dead limbs from a grove like you would firewood, but you'll still need a lot and you wouldn't be able to build anything large with that. Maybe another skiff."
"Another skiff would be precious," Flitch mumbles to Attius.
"I think that if you can secure more wood than you can carry, you can get help to retrieve it. The creatures of the Sargrass won't have anything to do with it," Edith adds.
"In any case, although it is of the utmost importance, your expedition is also somewhat risky. The skiff is too valuable for us to lose. Besides, you're not even sure how you'd move it, and it wouldn't seat you all." Flitch says, "As to the crystal -- well, I'm sure a large amount of wood would attract it more, but a near amount of wood would attract it more, too. I have no idea what taking the skiff would do to its effectiveness."
Attius stands up. "Debate if you'd like. Things changed when the Sargrass returned. The long wait hit the druids as hard as it hit us, and I don't know what you should expect to find." He gives Flitch a look and a nod, then leaves unhurriedly.
Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 29/29 Thursday September 19th, 2019 5:55:47 AM
Grindar asks, "So for clarification, If we find a source of druid wood, you guys will assist in the hauling?" he considers adding, "If your willing to haul it why don't you help us find it as well?" but he keeps that to himself. Grindar feels as though he and his friends are being taken advantage of, but since they have a vested interest in obtaining druid wood for themselves, he is willing to ignore it for the moment.
BigbyWolf ( Michael) 25/25 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 Thursday September 19th, 2019 10:29:15 AM
"I suppose fate would like us to go out there and find out how to bring it back. So be it. Let's just get on our way then."
'Lil - (Carl) - 26/26 HP - AC 17/11/16 - CMD 15 Thursday September 19th, 2019 2:26:04 PM
"Yeeeeah, I don't think bringing a bunch'a ox or whatever hauls stuff in this place on a scouting trip like this is a good idea. Let's worry 'bout securing the wood, then leave transportation to the professionals."
Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 9/9 AC/T/FF:11/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour d4+1=4 ; d4+1=3 ; Thursday September 19th, 2019 7:07:32 PM
Sol nods at Lil's words.
"I agree. We should try to see how much we can secure, then send word to request additional help to return with it?"
Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 27/27; CMD: 15 Thursday September 19th, 2019 9:46:30 PM
Caelwyn agrees with Lil as well. "We need to focus on finding it first, and we should be able to figure out transportation when the time comes. Who knows what we will find as we go looking for it. If there is enough to share, I see no problems with this arrangement..."
GM Steve -- You guys will assist in the hauling? Thursday September 19th, 2019 11:53:04 PM Grindar feels as though he and his friends are being taken advantage of, but since they have a vested interest in obtaining druid wood for themselves, he is willing to ignore it for the moment.
Bigby says, "I suppose fate would like us to go out there and find out how to bring it back. So be it. Let's just get on our way then."
'Lil seems to agree with what she's heard, "Yeeeeah, I don't think bringing a bunch'a ox or whatever hauls stuff in this place on a scouting trip like this is a good idea. Let's worry 'bout securing the wood, then leave transportation to the professionals."
Sol nods at Lil's words. "I agree. We should try to see how much we can secure, then send word to request additional help to return with it?"
Caelwyn agrees with Lil as well. "Who knows what we will find as we go looking for it. If there is enough to share, I see no problems with this arrangement..."
. If the arrangements seem satisfactory, one of you takes the box with the wood-seeking crystal inside it. Flitch makes you repeat back the directions Attius gave -- south along the foot of the mountains five or six score miles. That could be many days through the grasses. After a couple of days the crystal should point the way.
"Are thre any other arrangements you feel are in order?" Flitch asks.
"Are you heading out right away, or starting in the morning? If you stay the night, come on over to Culliver's and I'll see you get a good meal." Edith offers.
Perception DC-20 Highlight to display spoiler: {There appears to have been something written on the box with the crystal, now mostly rubbed off.}
Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 29/29 d20+8=14 ; Friday September 20th, 2019 5:35:10 AM
Grindar doesn't notice the writing on the box, as he turns to his friends and says, "I ready to go now if you guys are, but making an early start after a good nights sleep before heading back into the death trap known as the Sargrass Plains is probably a good idea". Grindar actually would like to get going. The last few days have been a much need reprieve, but the people of Rattledam are counting on them, and the longer they are away, the more he worries for their safety.
BigbyWolf ( Michael) 25/25 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 d20+10=24 ; Friday September 20th, 2019 1:24:50 PM
perception 24. "strange, the writing on the box has been rubbed off. Oh well, no need for concern about that I'm sure. Off we are or, sleep then off."
'Lil - (Carl) - 26/26 HP - AC 17/11/16 - CMD 15 d20+7=10 ; Friday September 20th, 2019 1:39:34 PM
'Lil didn't notice the box, but looks at it when Bigby speaks up. "Them wolf-eyes of yours are pretty good, dude."
She tries to figure out if it's just worn down with age and use, or if someone deliberately rubbed it off.
Either way, she's down with getting a good meal. Plus, Edith might have work. Nothin' wrong with a little side quest, right? Adventurers gotta eat (and buy neat toys).
Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 9/9 AC/T/FF:11/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour d4+1=4 ; d4+1=3 ; d20+1=16 ; Friday September 20th, 2019 5:51:51 PM
Sol nods, apparently not noticing the box, but hearing Bigby talk about it.
"I would vote for one good nights rest before we go. I am anxious to get going, but feel that it may be unwise to head out without being completely rested."
Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 27/27; CMD: 15 d20=11 ; Saturday September 21st, 2019 12:34:19 AM
"I agree, let's sleep for the night and get a solid start in the morning. We need to be prepared!"
Caelwyn doesn't notice anything strange about the box or anything else.
To the Druid's Grove
GM Steve -- Sleep, then off Saturday September 21st, 2019 10:52:23 PM Grindar turns to his friends and says, "I ready to go now if you guys are, but making an early start after a good nights sleep before heading back into the death trap known as the Sargrass Plains is probably a good idea."
Bigby says, "Strange, the writing on the box has been rubbed off. Oh well, no need for concern about that I'm sure. Off we are or, sleep then off."
'Lil didn't notice the box, but looks at it when Bigby speaks up. She tries to figure out if it's just worn down with age and use, or if someone deliberately rubbed it off. Either way, she's down with getting a good meal.
Sol nods, apparently not noticing the box, but hearing Bigby talk about it. "I would vote for one good nights rest before we go. I am anxious to get going, but feel that it may be unwise to head out without being completely rested."
Caelwyn concurs with the general mood. "I agree, let's sleep for the night and get a solid start in the morning. We need to be prepared!"
. 'Lil only, perception DC-15: Highlight to display spoiler: {The writing on the box has been rubbed off.} DC-20: Highlight to display spoiler: {There was a word, most likely "sananobis".}
The group stays for a final evening, spending it as local celebrities. Word of your mission has gotten out, and it seems like everyone here who has had anything to do with you and half of those who haven't want to wish you well. Enjoying the hospitality at Culliver's requires dealing with a crowd, even though Edith has made your table as private as the layout allows. You survive, of course, but not without a request or two that Grindar sing.
Waking early the next morning seems to be the best way to get out of town. People kept you from turning in as early as you would have liked, but a firm explanation that they were disturbing your much-needed rest got them to leave you alone. It didn't stop them from continuing the party, of course, but that wasn't near your quarters. Still, you were up early and out of town before many people were about. . . Which meant you only had to deal with Auntie handing you something light but tasty on the way. She didn't say what ihe meat was.
The grass did not become easier to travel through while you were biding time with the monks. As before, your going is slow. It doesn't seem to matter much whether you stay on the plains in the grass or up along the mountainside where the plants are easier to deal with but the terrain is more difficult. This is going to be a slow trip.
You keep going, sometimes in the grass and sometimes taking a break from it, heading roughly south. After two and a half days, the crystal still points back the way you came. You're on a hillside where the grasses are shorter, coming to the crest. And when you reach the top you notice that there is something large and colorful down the way you're headed and off to the left -- towards the grasses. It's a good hundred and fifty yards away, glinting in the sunlight.
Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 29/29 Monday September 23rd, 2019 5:26:32 AM
Grindar, upon seeing the colorful shiny thing, asks his friends, "What might that be, should I try to sneak down there and get a closer look?"
BigbyWolf ( Michael) 25/25 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 Monday September 23rd, 2019 11:44:52 AM
"sounds good, but last time that happened I was covered in ants. Be careful."
'Lil - (Carl) - 26/26 HP - AC 17/11/16 - CMD 15 d20+7=22 ; Monday September 23rd, 2019 12:06:12 PM
'Lil's eyes peer at the box. "Sananobis," she says quietly. "Hey!" she says louder. "Anyone know what or who the heck a sananobis is?" She wonders if it's a trigger word for the box. She watches for any reaction.
She has a good time, yessir.
The next day, she wonders out loud why they didn't bring a scythe to cut their way through all this grass. "Large, colorful, AND shiny. Yea, that's probably a trap." She elbows Grindar and smiles. "Go trigger it so we can get this over with, eh?"
Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 9/9 AC/T/FF:11/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour d4+1=4 ; d4+1=3 ; d20+1=5 ; Monday September 23rd, 2019 5:06:26 PM
Sol chuckles.
"Well I believe it would be a good idea to figure out what it does before we decide to go barrelling straight into it."
He looks to his Familiar.
"Corbin, can you take a look for us and let us know what you see?"
Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 27/27; CMD: 15 Monday September 23rd, 2019 9:26:15 PM
Caelwyn smiles. He too remembers Bigby and the ants. "Tell Corbin to be careful, who knows what that might be."
He strings his longbow and fits an arrow to the string.
GM Steve -- Should I try to sneak down there and get a closer look? Monday September 23rd, 2019 11:55:28 PM Grindar, upon seeing the colorful shiny thing, asks his friends if he should try to sneak down there and get a closer look.
Bigby encourages Grindar to do so, but warns him to be careful.
'Lil is interrupted from speculating about the box they received, or the possibility cutting the grass, to give her considered opinion that this is probably a trap.
Sol suggests figuring out what it is before tackling it head on. "Corbin, can you take a look for us and let us know what you see?"
Caelwyn smiles. He, too, remembers Bigby and the ants as he prepares his bow.
. Corbin flies over the area, but does not seem especially interested or alarmed by anything there. (A wizard's empathic link allows him to communicate empathically with the familiar, not see through its eyes. Only general emotions can be shared.)
As Corbin returns, you notice that the shiny thing has not moved or changed. From the distance, it must be large. But it is partially hidden by grass, 450 feet away.
Sol only: Highlight to display spoiler: {I do not find a language listed for Corbin, although a raven familiar can speak a language. After he lands, Corbin croaks out what Sol understands to be the word "bug," although the others do not seem to understand the croak.}
Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 29/29 Tuesday September 24th, 2019 5:43:10 AM
Grindar decides to wait for Corbin to return, and Sol to report the findings before attempting to sneak down to investigate.
BigbyWolf ( Michael) 25/25 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 Tuesday September 24th, 2019 11:22:13 AM
Bigby too awaits Corbins information from his investigation of the shiny shiny thing ahead of them.
'Lil - (Carl) - 26/26 HP - AC 17/11/16 - CMD 15 Tuesday September 24th, 2019 12:26:34 PM
"Well dude," 'Lil starts. "What'd the bird see? We in trouble?" Her eyes sparkle a bit at the idea of trouble...
Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 9/9 AC/T/FF:11/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour d4+1=4 ; d4+1=3 ; Tuesday September 24th, 2019 5:33:40 PM
((OoC: Sorry, yeah Corbin speaks Common, will update on my sheet))
Sol gives a confused look at his familiar.
"He said the word 'bug'. I assume he means there are bugs there, and after our last run in with them, I think it may be wise to avoid that area altogether."
GM Steve -- Her eyes sparkle a bit at the idea of trouble Tuesday September 24th, 2019 11:15:57 PM Grindar decides to wait for Corbin to return, and Sol to report the findings before attempting to sneak down to investigate.
Bigby too awaits Corbins information from his investigation of the shiny shiny thing ahead of them.
'Lil starts. "What'd the bird see? We in trouble?"
Sol gives a confused look at his familiar. "He said the word 'bug'. I assume he means there are bugs there, and after our last run in with them, I think it may be wise to avoid that area altogether."
Caelwyn stands ready with his bow.
. The group's previous path will take them closer to the shiny thing unless they decide to avoid it entirely. On the other hand, it will not take them all the way to it unless they decide to investigate.
Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 27/27; CMD: 15 Tuesday September 24th, 2019 11:33:23 PM
Caelwyn frowns. "Can he tell us anything else about what the object is? I don't want to risk our lives for nothing, but I do wonder what that might be..."
Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 29/29 d20+8=25 ; Wednesday September 25th, 2019 5:43:11 AM
Grindar thinks for a moment, then says, "Well, not a fan of bugs, but it might be worth an investigation". He removes his breastplate, and asks Sol to cast mage armor on him, then attempts to steathfully sneak down to get a better look. (Stealth 25)
'Lil - (Carl) - 26/26 HP - AC 17/11/16 - CMD 15 Wednesday September 25th, 2019 12:14:38 PM
"Always sneakin'," 'Lil murmurs. She unstraps Maya and follows several yards behind Grindar, ready to charge in if he gets 'imself in trouble.
BigbyWolf ( Michael) 25/25 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 Wednesday September 25th, 2019 2:24:42 PM
Bigby awaits. He whispers, "be careful Grindar. Drop and roll if its ants."
Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 9/9 AC/T/FF:11/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour d4+1=4 ; d4+1=3 ; Wednesday September 25th, 2019 7:19:53 PM
Sol does as Grindar asks.
"Just be careful, we do not wish to ride to your rescue if we can avoid it! Corbin, go with him, and keep an eye out. Though what did you mean by 'bug'?"
GM Steve -- Always sneakin' d20=19 ; Wednesday September 25th, 2019 8:03:09 PM Caelwyn frowns. "Can he tell us anything else about what the object is? I don't want to risk our lives for nothing, but I do wonder what that might be..."
Grindar thinks for a moment. He removes his breastplate, and asks Sol to cast mage armor on him, then attempts to steathfully sneak down to get a better look.
'Lil unstraps Maya and follows several yards behind Grindar, ready to charge in if he gets 'imself in trouble.
Bigby awaits. He whispers, "Be careful Grindar. Drop and roll if its ants."
Sol casts the spell Grindar requests. "Just be careful, we do not wish to ride to your rescue if we can avoid it! Corbin, go with him, and keep an eye out. Though what did you mean by 'bug'?"
. While Bigby, Caelwyn, and Sol wait, Grindar sneaks up on whatever it is over there. 'Lil follows, about a round behind in this rough terrain, and Corbin flies overhead.
Grindar and 'Lil: Highlight to display spoiler: {As you get closer, the scale of the scene becomes clearer to you. At a distance of 450', sneaking up on the shiny thing will take many rounds -- assuming that you approach carefully but at normal movement for the first minute, you get close enough to make out that it is a huge beetle, about 10' long and half hidden in the weeds. The beetle's carapace is colorful and reflective, primarily in greens and golds. There is something odd about the way it is positioned, and it has not moved that you can see in the time you have spent approaching it.}
Grindar: Highlight to display spoiler: {OOC, you can save the 25 Stealth roll and use it when you feel you are cloase enough to need it if you want. Right now you would still have plenty of time to react.}
Sol: Highlight to display spoiler: {Corbin remains unperturbed the whole time.}
After about a minute, Grindar and 'Lil are 150' from the thing.
Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 27/27; CMD: 15 Wednesday September 25th, 2019 8:58:09 PM
Caelwyn, with an arrow on the string, approaches as well, but only to within longbow range. He tries to stay under cover and not make himself too obvious, wanting to support from a distance if Lil and Grindar get into trouble.
Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 29/29 Thursday September 26th, 2019 5:58:27 AM "This is odd" Grindar whispers to Lil as the giant beetle thing doesn't move, "It's position is a little off, I'm going in for a closer look". He then draws Bwyell from his back, and moves as close as he can while using the grass for cover. when he is about 50ft away, he will switch into super sneaky mode to move the remainder of the way, stopping about 30 ft from the beetle. (Stealth 25)
'Lil - (Carl) - 26/26 HP - AC 17/11/16 - CMD 15 d20+6=21 ; d8+3=6 ; Thursday September 26th, 2019 12:30:22 PM
'Lil ain't got no super sneaky mode. She follows Grindar until he goes into his, but that puts her in range to charge and stab somethin' if she needs to.
Readied action: Charge and stab what needs stabbin'. Hit AC 21 for 6 damage.
BigbyWolf ( Michael) 25/25 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 Thursday September 26th, 2019 2:12:45 PM
Bigby will do double move to move closer to her allies and hopefully able to attack a round later if needed.
BigbyWolf ( Michael) 25/25 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 Thursday September 26th, 2019 4:16:09 PM
ooc: bigby is he. woops
Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 9/9 AC/T/FF:11/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour d4+1=4 ; d4+1=3 ; Thursday September 26th, 2019 7:08:13 PM
Sol will remain fair enough away that his lack of grace will not affect the party's attempts at stealth, but close enough that he is not beyond the range he can help from, he however whispers quietly.
"What is there? Can you see anything more clearly?"
GM Steve -- This is odd Thursday September 26th, 2019 10:46:14 PM Caelwyn, with an arrow on the string, approaches to within longbow range, trying to stay under cover.
Grindar whispers to Lil as the giant beetle thing doesn't move, "I'm going in for a closer look".
'Lil follows Grindar until he starts to sneak, but that puts her in range to charge and stab somethin' if she needs to.
Bigby moves closer to his allies and hopefully able to attack a round later if needed.
Sol remains fair enough away that his lack of grace will not affect the party's attempts at stealth, but close enough that he is not beyond the range he can help from.
. The party takes another minute or two to make its way into folks' respective positions. Furthest, Caelwyn and Sol stop about 100' from what is by then clearly a huge beetle. Bigby, 'Lil, and Grindar move to about 70', 50', and 30' away respectively. Grindar takes his time for the last little bit, moving carefully and quietly. Grindar has not seen the beetle move yet.
The beetle is about 10' long and 5' or 6' high, which leaves the grasses hiding its lower portion. It is bright green and gold, with some mottled shading into other colors in places. The more armored portions are reflective, as well. It is tilted over at an angle, and has been the entire time.
Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 27/27; CMD: 15 Thursday September 26th, 2019 11:08:41 PM
Caelwyn can't tell if the thing is asleep or dead, but he doesn't want to find out. He gestures for Lil and Grindar to fall back, but doesn't call out for fear of waking the creature up.
Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 29/29 d20+8=27 ; d20=17 ; Friday September 27th, 2019 6:04:09 AM
Grindar looks at the ground to see if he can find a small rock, if he does, while holding Bwyell in his off hand, he will throw the rock so that it hits the ground on the opposite side of the beetle. He isn't aiming at anything in particular, just testing his hypothesis that the bug is dead, hopefully without giving away his position. (stealth 27+2 for favored terrain=29) I'm not sure if I need to make an attack roll or not for throwing the rock, but rolled a 17+7 for strength and Bab -4 for improvised weapon=20.
If Grindar can't find a rock, he will draw one of his daggers, and throw that in the same fashion. 17+7 for strength and bab -4 for being out of range by two increments=20
'Lil - (Carl) - 26/26 HP - AC 17/11/16 - CMD 15 Friday September 27th, 2019 11:23:07 AM
'Lil's getting bored. "We gonna take this much time every time we see something what ain't grass? Animals don't stay that still less they're dead. We should probably be more worried about what down there is holding on to that bug."
She thinks. "An animal eating it would be moving it around. Maybe there's some carnivorous plant over there slowly digestin' it's head or something."
BigbyWolf ( Michael) 25/25 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 Friday September 27th, 2019 11:38:13 AM
Bigby watches and waits. "this place is gets weirder and weirder. This was the shiny, right?"
GM Steve -- This was the shiny, right? Saturday September 28th, 2019 11:20:11 AM Caelwyn gestures for Lil and Grindar to fall back, but doesn't call out for fear of waking the creature up.
Grindar looks around for something to throw, finally settling on one of his daggers. While holding Bwyell in his off hand, he throws the dagger so that it hits the ground on the opposite side of the beetle with a satisfying rustling of the grass.
'Lil's getting bored. She whispers, "Animals don't stay that still less they're dead. We should probably be more worried about what down there is holding on to that bug."
Bigby watches and waits. "This place is -- gets weirder and weirder."
. The rustling of the grass when Grindar's dagger falls was louder than he has been, but is followed by a continued lack of movement by the beetle. (Or of, to 'Lil's point, whatever may be holding the beetle.)
People's distances to the beetle remain unchanged this round.
Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 9/9 AC/T/FF:11/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour d4+1=4 ; d4+1=3 ; Saturday September 28th, 2019 6:46:44 PM
Sol moves in a little closer, watching Corbin, and asking him to let him know if anything starts sneaking up on the party.
Sol ensures he gets within about 60 feet, so his spells will be able to work.
Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 27/27; CMD: 15 d20+2=4 ; Sunday September 29th, 2019 8:50:34 PM
Caelwyn creeps a bit closer, but stays well behind the others. He tries to see if there is anything holding the beetle down.
Perception 4
Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 29/29 d20+8=24 ; Monday September 30th, 2019 5:53:56 AM
Emboldened by the outcome of his experiment, Grindar, with Bwyell in hand, walks boldly over to retrieve his dagger, and examine the beetle more closely. (Perception 24)
BigbyWolf ( Michael) 25/25 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 Monday September 30th, 2019 12:26:27 PM
"is it dead Grindar? Try kicking it."
'Lil - (Carl) - 26/26 HP - AC 17/11/16 - CMD 15 Monday September 30th, 2019 3:05:01 PM
'Lil follows Grindar, taking no effort to remain sneaky. She's still ready to charge and attack anything what needs attacking.
Reusing previous to-hit roll: Charge and stab what needs stabbin'. Hit AC 21 for 6 damage.
GM Steve -- Stab what needs stabbin' Monday September 30th, 2019 8:07:52 PM Sol moves in a little closer, watching Grindar, choosing an optimum spell-casting distance. Corbin is watching from above.
Caelwyn creeps a bit closer, but stays well behind the others. He tries to see if there is anything holding the beetle down.
Grindar, emboldened by the outcome of his experiment, walks boldly over to retrieve his dagger, and examine the beetle more closely.
Bigby asks, "Is it dead Grindar? Try kicking it."
'Lil follows Grindar, taking no effort to remain sneaky. She's still ready to charge and attack anything what needs attacking.
. Grindar, followed by 'Lil, walks around the beetle to where his dagger landed. The beetle continues not to move. He does not see anything that might be holding it down -- if anything is, it's low in the grass. In fact, Grindar gathers that the beetle has been dead for some time, as there are normal-sized insects making a feast of it at the joints in its carapace. And those wings are the size of tower shields.
'Lil eagerly looks for something to attack, but is disappointed. The shell of the beetle sparkles in the sun.
Grindar and 'Lil end up about 10' away from the beetle on the far side (down-slope) from where you started. The remainder of the party is staggered at 50' to 80' away on the up-slope side, where Grindar and 'Lil are half-hidden by the beetle.
'Lil - (Carl) - 26/26 HP - AC 17/11/16 - CMD 15 Monday September 30th, 2019 8:53:46 PM
"Well, this is dissapointin'," says 'Lil as she puts Maya away. "Still, real pretty, eh? At least it was when it wasn't swarmin' with bugs and junk."
She has a thought. She gets Maya back out and starts pokin' them wings. They tough enough to actually be tower shields?
Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 27/27; CMD: 15 Monday September 30th, 2019 10:38:59 PM
Caelwyn relaxes a bit, seeing how close his comrades have gotten to the beetle without its moving at all. He puts away his bow, swapping it for his spear and trident, and marches forward toward them, still keeping an eye out for trouble.
Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 29/29 Tuesday October 1st, 2019 5:41:15 AM "I was thinking the same thing Lil, I don't normally fight with a shield, but for those that do, if these things are strong enough, they would make a very attractive shield indeed".
BigbyWolf ( Michael) 25/25 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 Tuesday October 1st, 2019 11:20:41 AM
Bigby will move up closer.
Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 9/9 AC/T/FF:11/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour d4+1=4 ; d4+1=3 ; Tuesday October 1st, 2019 5:57:06 PM
Sol, seeing the danger is apparently passed, or at least the threat of it will move up closer.
"What is it my friends, do you know what this thing is?"
He approaches so he can see the bug himself.
"Or what happened to it?"
GM Steve -- There must be a million of them Tuesday October 1st, 2019 8:07:06 PM 'Lil puts her weapon away, saying, "Well, this is dissapointin'. Still, real pretty, eh? At least it was when it wasn't swarmin' with bugs and junk." She has a thought. She gets Maya back out and starts pokin' them wings. They tough enough to actually be tower shields?
Caelwyn relaxes a bit, seeing how close his comrades have gotten to the beetle without its moving at all. He puts away his bow, swapping it for his spear and trident, and marches forward toward them, still keeping an eye out for trouble.
Grindar speaks to 'Lil. "I was thinking the same thing Lil, I don't normally fight with a shield, but for those that do, if these things are strong enough, they would make a very attractive shield indeed".
Bigby moves closer.
Sol, seeing the danger is apparently passed, or at least the threat of it will move up closer so he can see the bug himself. "What is it my friends, do you know what this thing is? Or what happened to it?"
. 'Lil's weapon hits the beetle's wing with a satisfying THUNK but doesn't mark the surface. Whatever these wings are made of, they're tough.
However, the insects on the beetle are disturbed by the vibration. You hear a buzzing coming from within and below the beetle, immediately followed by an enormous swarm of cockroach-sized flying insects that come boiling out of the joints in the carapace. Three of you are well out of the area of the swarm, but 'Lil and Grindar are caught in it and covered by the bugs.
'Lil is 5' from the beetle, downslope; Grindar is next to her. Bigby, Sol, and Caelwyn are about 40', 50', and 60' away, upslope, when they realize what has happened. The swarm is about 15' in diameter, with 'Lil and Grindar at its center, and includes both crawlers and fliers. This is difficult terrain.
Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 29/29 Wednesday October 2nd, 2019 5:50:02 AM "Well, this is just dandy!" Grindar says as he tries moving out of the swarm, by moving 10ft south of his current location, once out of the swarm, he will drop to the ground, and roll around, hoping to squish as many bugs as possible that might be clinging to his body still.
BigbyWolf ( Michael) 25/25 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 Wednesday October 2nd, 2019 4:10:01 PM
Bigby will cast produce flame in his right hand and prepare to attack the swarm. "Fire works if memory serves."
'Lil - (Carl) - 26/26 HP - AC 17/11/16 - CMD 15 Wednesday October 2nd, 2019 5:43:29 PM
"I was just pokin' your bug, little dudes!" cries 'Lil. She takes stock of the situation, trying to determine if these were dangerous bugs swarming them, or just gross ones. If she's getting hurt, she'll pound the ground around'er with Ramona. Otherwise she follows Grindar outta this place.
Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 27/27; CMD: 15 Wednesday October 2nd, 2019 6:59:40 PM
Caelwyn curses under his breath. "This again..." He immediately moves forward and to help knock bugs off his comrades if he can. He wonders how quickly he could make a torch...perhaps that could be of more assistance?
GM Steve -- Well, this is just dandy! d6=6 ; d6=3 ; Wednesday October 2nd, 2019 11:52:23 PM Grindar tries moving out of the swarm. After ten feet, he drops to the ground and rolls around, hoping to squish as many bugs as possible that might be clinging to his body still.
Bigby casts produce flame in his right hand and prepares to attack the swarm.
'Lil cries, "I was just pokin' your bug, little dudes!" She takes stock of the situation, then pounds the ground around'er with Ramona.
Caelwyn curses under his breath. "This again..." He immediately moves forward and to help knock bugs off his comrades if he can. He wonders how quickly he could make a torch...perhaps that could be of more assistance?
. Link to the map 'Lil, at the center of the swarm, takes 6 points of damage. Grindar takes 3 points damage.
Grindar is followed by about half of the bugs when he moves, the rest staying with 'Lil. Grindar drops and rolls, ending the round prone. 'Lil lays about energetically, but isn't sure she's having much effect. Both remain surrounded by bugs. Caelwyn moves as far as he can, and Bigby casts his spell before moving. (I have taken the liberty of moving you on the map.)
Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 9/9 AC/T/FF:11/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour d4+1=4 ; d4+1=3 ; Thursday October 3rd, 2019 5:08:43 AM
Sol will move a little closer (Q13) and cast Unseen Servant, commanding it to get the bugs off of Lil and Grindar as best it can, focusing on Lil first as she seems to be having more trouble.
Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 26/29 Thursday October 3rd, 2019 5:38:22 AM
Grindar tries rolling around some more again hoping to clear off some of the bugs. Dropping Bwyell, he swats with both hands as he rolls.
'Lil - (Carl) - 20/26 HP - AC 17/11/16 - CMD 15 Thursday October 3rd, 2019 12:46:51 PM
'Lil wants to scream about how gross this is, but worries about bugs gettin' in her mouth. Instead, she just charges straight east away from the beetle.
Double move in difficult terrain = 30' east.
BigbyWolf ( Michael) 25/25 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 d20+4=10 ; d6+3=9 ; Thursday October 3rd, 2019 2:00:44 PM
Bigby will move up closer and then throw the produced flame (ranged touch). 10 attack, 9 dmg if hit.
*Flames as bright as a torch appear in your open hand. The flames harm neither you nor your equipment.
In addition to providing illumination, the flames can be hurled or used to touch enemies. You can strike an opponent with a melee touch attack, dealing fire damage equal to 1d6 + 1 point per caster level (maximum +5). Alternatively, you can hurl the flames up to 120 feet as a thrown weapon. When doing so, you attack with a ranged touch attack (with no range penalty) and deal the same damage as with the melee attack. No sooner do you hurl the flames than a new set appears in your hand. Each attack you make reduces the remaining duration by 1 minute. If an attack reduces the remaining duration to 0 minutes or less, the spell ends after the attack resolves.
GM Steve -- Well, this is just dandy! d6=2 ; d6=2 ; Friday October 4th, 2019 12:05:22 AM Sol moves closer and casts Unseen Servant, commanding it to get the bugs off of Lil and Grindar as best it can, focusing on Lil first as she seems to be having more trouble.
Grindar tries rolling around some more again hoping to clear off some of the bugs. Dropping Bwyell, he swats with both hands as he rolls.
'Lil wants to scream about how gross this is, but worries about bugs gettin' in her mouth. Instead, she just charges straight east away from the beetle.
Bigby moves closer and throws the produced flame.
. Link to the map 'Lil and Grindar each take 2 points of damage.
Sol casts his spell this round, and the unseen servant will be able to act next round.
Bigby throws a ball of flame at the bugs, but they are able to dodge and it passes harmlessly through the swarm. The flame reignites in Bigby's hand.
'Lil and Grindar continue their struggles with the bugs, but feel they are accomplishing little.
OOC: Sol is able to reach (Q13) using his movement from last round and this one. Caelwyn may use this round's movement determining what to do next round.
----- Bug: AC: ?? (touch is higher than 10) Those on 'Lil -- 0 damage Those on Grindar -- 0 damage
Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 27/27; CMD: 15 Friday October 4th, 2019 12:46:32 AM
Caelwyn advances toward Lil, holding out his torch to knock away any bugs he can. "Fall back, away from the swarm!"
Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 24/29 Friday October 4th, 2019 5:46:08 AM
Realizing his current plan of action isn't working, Grindar instead grabs Bwyell, and stands up preparing to start moving towards he friends. He says to himself, "I hate bugs. They're gross and nasty, and now they are trying to kill me!"
'Lil - (Carl) - 18/26 HP - AC 17/11/16 - CMD 15 d20+2=21 ; 2d6+3=9 ; Friday October 4th, 2019 10:58:18 AM
'Lil grumbles as the swarm moves with her. She decides to fight instead, raining blows from Ramona on the dumb things.
Hit AC 21 for 9 damage.
BigbyWolf ( Michael) 25/25 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 d20+6=15 ; d6+3=8 ; Friday October 4th, 2019 4:59:50 PM
bigby will move up to attack it with a melee attack with the flame in his hand. 15 attack, 8 dmg.
Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 9/9 AC/T/FF:11/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour d4+1=4 ; d4+1=3 ; d20+1=7 ; 4d6=15 ; Friday October 4th, 2019 5:51:19 PM
Sol curses that he didn't prepare any spells for this sort of thing today... and reminds himself to be more careful in the future with his selection...
"I would require more spells my current spellbook is lacking greatly... all the same. Lil! Move towards us on my signal!"
He will cast Scorching Ray, aiming at the swarm surrounding Lil in an attempt to force them to disperse and give her a free path out of the swarm and relatively free of it.
((7 to hit, (probably miss) but 15 damage))
GM Steve -- They're gross and nasty, and now they are trying to kill me! d6=3 ; d6=3 ; d20+2=8 ; Friday October 4th, 2019 11:40:58 PM Caelwyn advances toward Lil, holding out his torch to knock away any bugs he can. "Fall back, away from the swarm!"
Caelwyn swings at the bugs with his torch, but does not manage to do significant damage to the swarm. However, he has engaged with the swarm and finds bugs are now crawling on him. (A torch is an improvised weapon, taking a -4 penalty to hit, and a hit with it will do 1 point of fire damage to the swarm.)
Grindar grabs Bwyell, realizing his current plan of action isn't working and stands up preparing to start moving towards he friends.
Grindar retrieves his weapon and stands.
'Lil grumbles as the swarm moves with her. She decides to fight instead, raining blows from Ramona on the dumb things.
'Lil lays about with her weapon. Although she manages to smash a few cockroaches, she does not do significant damage to the swarm.
Bigby moves up to attack the swarm with a melee attack with the flame in his hand.
Bigby thrusts his burning hand into a dense part of the swarm on 'Lil, causing the bugs to quickly retreat from that area. However, he has engaged with the swarm and finds bugs are now crawling on him, although they are avoiding his right hand and a couple of feet around it.
Sol curses that he didn't prepare any spells for this sort of thing today... and reminds himself to be more careful in the future with his selection... "I would require more spells my current spellbook is lacking greatly... all the same. Lil! Move towards us on my signal!" He casts Scorching Ray, aiming at the swarm surrounding Lil.
Sol's spell goes wide.
. Link to the map 'Lil and Grindar each take 3 points of damage.
----- Swarm AC: 16 Those on 'Lil -- 0 damage Those on Grindar -- 0 damage
'Lil - (Carl) - 15/26 HP - AC 17/11/16 - CMD 15 d20+2=8 ; Sunday October 6th, 2019 2:13:35 PM
'Lil continues using Ramona to mash the cockroaches as much as she's able, but mostly just pounds dirt.
Attack roll: 8. What are we dealing with here, Mr. DM? Swarms should take full damage from bludgeoning attacks.
Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 27/27; CMD: 15 d20+3=8 ; d8+3=4 ; Sunday October 6th, 2019 10:14:30 PM
Caelwyn will also attempt to attack the cockroaches surrounding Lil, although he is unsure how much damage he will do with his longsword.
Attack 8, Damage 4
Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 24/29 d20+7=13 ; Monday October 7th, 2019 5:32:20 AM
Grindar considers swinging Bwyell at the swarm, but realizes his quarterstaff will probably work better, so he drops his orc double ax, as a free action, and draws his quarterstaff, as a move action, and swings it two-handed at the swarm, missing with a 13
Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 21/29 Monday October 7th, 2019 5:33:27 AM
fixed header
BigbyWolf ( Michael) 25/25 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 d20+6=26 ; d20+6=20 ; d6+3=4 ; Monday October 7th, 2019 1:52:29 PM
Bigby tries to attack the swarm again with the flame. attack 26, 20 confirm crit. dmg 4x2=8.
GM Ryan Link to the map Get them off! Get them off! d20+1=18 ; d3=2 ; Monday October 7th, 2019 3:04:06 PM
Sol will let out a frustrated yell and then launch a Touch of Frost at the creatures, aiming to help clear Lil off.
"When will my thrice damned magic hit what I require it to?!?"
((Attack - 18 to hit, 2 Damage))
GM Ryan Link to the map Get them off! Get them off! d6=6 ; d6=1 ; Monday October 7th, 2019 6:31:36 PM
Know Nature DC12 Highlight to display spoiler: { Its a cockroach swarm!! Sadly it is immune to weapon damage. }
Lil’ swings again and fails to connect. Something tells her that even her best attack with Ramona will do very little.
Caelwyn also swings but his longsword is equally ineffective.
Grindar is game and switches to his quarterstaff but misses.
Bigby has better luck with his flame attack this time and manages to do not unsubstantial damage to the swarm.
Sol manages to connect with hit frost and does some damage. In fact between Bigby and Sol the swarm on Lil looks substantially smaller.
The substantially smaller swarm stays on Lil and the other on Grindar {ooc; because I cannot edit the map} and cause additional damage. {Lil: 6 | Grindar: 1} ----- Swarm AC: 16/16/14 Those on 'Lil -- -10 damage Those on Grindar -- 0 damage
Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 27/27; CMD: 15 Tuesday October 8th, 2019 12:09:27 AM
Caelwyn tries to beat the bugs off Lil, seeing that his sword is doing little good.
Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 20/29 d20+4=7 ; d20+5=16 ; d20+5=11 ; Tuesday October 8th, 2019 5:43:34 AM
Grindar is clueless when it comes to this swarm so he continues to attack it with his quarterstaff, barley hitting with the main hand, but missing with off hand. He then realizes that his weapons aren't going to have any affect.
'Lil - (Carl) - 9/26 HP - AC 17/11/16 - CMD 15 d20+7=12 ; Tuesday October 8th, 2019 11:01:58 AM
Well, this is bad. 'Lil can feel all the blood that these things have pulled outta her missin'. Her head starts to swim, and she realizes there ain't nothin' she can do to get these things off'er. She tries to heal herself while her friends kill these things, but she can't concentrate well enough.
Save vs. Distraction - 12 = fail
BigbyWolf ( Michael) 25/25 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 d20+10=18 ; Tuesday October 8th, 2019 12:29:32 PM
Bigby takes a step back to recast produce flame. knowledge nature 18. "Perhaps some burning hands Sol would work for this. Normal weapons won't work."
GM Ryan Link to the map Get them off! Get them off! d6=4 ; d6=1 ; d6=1 ; Tuesday October 8th, 2019 3:53:31 PM Caelwyn tries to beat the bugs but has no effect.
Grindar likewise has no clue about the swarm but tries to beat it before realizing his attacks are having no effect. Rather then move away form swarm Grindar holds his ground hoping for help most likely.
Lil attempts to heal herself, standing in the swarm rather the moving first, but the attempt fails as she is quite distracted by pain.
Bigby calls out that flames will help requesting Burning Hands form Sol as he backs off to catch Produce Flame.
Grindar is still off by himself and takes more damage from the swarm. Lil gets a small relief as the swarm moves off of her onto Bigby who seems the bigger threat. {Damage- Grindar: 6 | Bigby: 1 Wolf: 1 }
----- Round 6 Swarm AC: 16/16/14 Those on Bigby -- -10 damage Those on Grindar -- 0 damage
Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 14/14 AC/T/FF:11/11/10 Active Spells: None d20+1=3 ; d3=2 ; Tuesday October 8th, 2019 5:04:57 PM
Sol again attempts to strike out with his Ray of Frost at the creatures attacking Lil, figuring he can do more by exposing them in this deep cold.
"I hope we can scare them off soon..."
He then moves away to W16 to keep a great distance between him and the creatures.
Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 27/27; CMD: 15 d6=2 ; Tuesday October 8th, 2019 9:50:03 PM
Caelwyn curses under his breath. "Domi help us...how do we kill these things?" He decides there is nothing for it but to move closer to Lil and lay on hands, to keep her from passing out from blood loss.
Lay on hands: heal 2 hit points
Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 12/29 Wednesday October 9th, 2019 5:35:06 AM
Grindar makes a double move landing at 17/N trying to get closer to his friends, and hoping to leave the swarm.
BigbyWolf ( Michael) 25/25 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 d20+6=11 ; d20+6=14 ; Wednesday October 9th, 2019 12:05:41 PM
Bigby will attack the bugs on himself with both claws. 11. 14. (ooc: guess can't get a break).
'Lil - (Carl) - 22/26 HP - AC 17/11/16 - CMD 15 2d8+3=8 ; d8=4 ; Wednesday October 9th, 2019 2:01:51 PM
'Lil starts yelling as the bugs swarm off her. She's horrified to see them going after Bigby instead. She ain't sure what to do. They can't outrun the things, she has no way'a smashin' them, and now they're all over the guy that can hurt him.
She knows what she has to do. In a flash, she heals herself, then wades through the grass towards Bigby and the swarm. "Bigby! Get on wolf and ride outta them! I'll keep'em busy while you get that fire spell goin' again!"
GM Ryan Link to the map Get them off! Get them off! d6=3 ; Wednesday October 9th, 2019 2:58:49 PM Sol tries his Ray of Frost again, but it fails to connect, before getting some distance from the swarm.
Caelwayn curses under his breath and helps to keep the bloodied Lil standing.
Grindar extricates himself from the swarm and moves closer to his companions. Blood flows freely from many small bites.
Bigby lashes out with claws but fails to catch a break. {ooc: Are they flaming?}
Lil starts yelling as the bugs swarm off her and is horrified to see them going to Bigby instead. With an idea she heals herself and waids back into the bugs calling "Bigby! Get on wolf and ride outta them! I'll keep'em busy while you get that fire spell goin' again!"
All in all the team is not fairing very well. The swam on Bigby is greatly thinned and cannot take much more but stays where it is and eats at Bigby. The other swarm, having lost its meal moves towards where the most meals are. It flies over Grindar but does not bite as it moves and closes in very close on Lil and Cawlwyn. {Damage – Bigby: 3}
Round 7 Swarm AC: 16/16/14 Those on Bigby -- -10 damage Those on Grindar -- 0 damage
Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 14/14 AC/T/FF:11/11/10 Active Spells: None d20+2=12 ; Wednesday October 9th, 2019 5:39:41 PM
Sol sighs heavily, and attempts to cast Scorching Ray at the swarm on Grindar, avoiding his friend, however the ray goes wide, and he lets out a frustrated groan.
"I have no ability to cast my higher level magics today... I suppose I will have to go to my next level of arcane might..."
BigbyWolf ( Michael) 21/25 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 26/27 -AC 17 d20+6=26 ; d20+6=19 ; d6+3=6 ; Wednesday October 9th, 2019 11:43:16 PM
Bigby will try another flame attack (his last one for this spell, but can cast one more. ooc: yes flaming, well I guess one hand is? didn't think about that). 26, 19 confirm crit. 6x2=12 dmg.
Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 27/27; CMD: 15 d6=1 ; Thursday October 10th, 2019 12:23:19 AM
Caelwyn sees what Lil is doing and moves to help her with another lay on hands, which sadly doesn't do much. "Domi protect us" he mutters as they advance toward the bugs.
Lil take 1 additional hit points
Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 12/29 Thursday October 10th, 2019 5:23:57 AM
feeling worse then useless, Grindar goes back to 20, J to retrieve Bwyell. As he does, he says, "let's try getting away from these pesky bugs!"
'Lil - (Carl) - 22/26 HP - AC 17/11/16 - CMD 15 Thursday October 10th, 2019 12:30:28 PM
"We can't outrun these things, dude!" 'Lil shouts over the hum of the cockroaches. "Gotta keep'em busy while our magic folk kill'em. Bigby should really get on his wolf and kite'em, though!"
With that, 'Lil closes the distance between her and Bigby. She starts jumpin' up and down on the bugs, trying to get their attention. "Go on dude," she says to Bigby. "Get outta here so you can burn'em down before they kill me."
GM Ryan Link to the map Get them off! Get them off! d6=3 ; d6=6 ; Thursday October 10th, 2019 5:28:20 PM Sol, poor poor inaccurate Sol, misses yet again with one of his spells
Lil steps into the bugs around Bigby only to have the following happen.
Bigbys attack shows the most results. The claws do… nothing BUT the flame kills enough roaches to disperse one of the swarms.
Caelwyn see what Lil is doing and moves to heal her and and support her effort.
Brave Sir Grindar ran away. Bravely ran away away.
The remaining swarm continued its advance despite Lil moving and makes a meal of Caelwyn biting and getting the sweet blood of life. {Damage – Caelwyn: 3}
Round 6 Swarm AC: 16/16/14 Those on Bigby -- -10 damage*DEAD* Those on Grindar -- 0 damage
Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 14/14 AC/T/FF:11/11/10 Active Spells: None d4+1=2 ; Thursday October 10th, 2019 6:17:36 PM
Sol shakes his head and summons up a Magic Missile, aimed at the swarm on Grindar.
"This spell, thankfully does not rely on my own aiming ability."
((2 points of damage))
BigbyWolf ( Michael) 21/25 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 26/27 -AC 17 Thursday October 10th, 2019 7:55:42 PM
ooc: Sol, lvl 3 magic missile should be two missiles. And we can really use the second missile lol.
For every two caster levels beyond 1st, you gain an additional missile – two at 3rd level, three at 5th, four at 7th, and the maximum of five missiles at 9th level or higher. If you shoot multiple missiles, you can have them strike a single creature or several creatures. A single missile can strike only one creature. You must designate targets before you check for spell resistance or roll damage.
Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 27/27; CMD: 15 d6=4 ; Thursday October 10th, 2019 8:25:10 PM
"Blasted insects!" Caelwyn immediately moves toward Bigby, hoping for a little help, but he doesn't get too close - he doesn't want them heading for Bigby instead.
OOC: Rolled a 1 on my last pay on hands for Lil, I re-roll it here - take 4 points of healing, Lil
Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 12/29 Friday October 11th, 2019 5:15:56 AM
Seeing his brothers and sister staying put, and one of the swarms disperse, Grindar, still feeling useless, runs back towards his friends. (4x move speed) Feeling ashamed for his brief bout of cowardice , he decides to make up for it. Realizing he can’t hurt the thing, instead he tries to sacrifice his own body to protect those who can, and because he took of his breastplate before examining the beetle, he is able to run directly into the swarm, in spit of the difficult terrain.
BigbyWolf ( Michael) 21/25 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 26/27 -AC 17 d20+6=18 ; d6+3=5 ; Friday October 11th, 2019 11:24:52 AM
Bigby moves over to the next swarm and attacks with the flame att 18, dmg 5.
GM Ryan Link to the map Get them off! Get them off! d6=2 ; d6=2 ; Friday October 11th, 2019 6:43:19 PM Caelwyn curses the insects and moves toward Bigby hoping for a little help.
Sol fires off a magic missile that fails to do any damage. {ooc: did no like typing that}
Bigby moves to the next swarm and scores a hit singing bugs as he swings.
Grindar turns back around and runs into the swarm, sacrificing some of his own life force to protect the party.
Lil basks in the healing energy and drools a little.
The remaining swarm is not smart so it does not see the threat the Bigby poses. Not moving it swarms crawling in every crevice and orifice of Caelwayn and the newly arrived grinder. Small streams of blood flow from the two robust heroes. {Damage – Caelwyn: 2 | Grindar: 2}
'Lil - (Carl) - 26/26 HP - AC 17/11/16 - CMD 15 Friday October 11th, 2019 6:58:37 PM
OOC: Darn, missed it by 10 minutes.
'Lil snaps to. Wading into the roaches herself wouldn't accomplish anything, so she touches Bigby on the back. The wolf dude feels a rage well up inside him when she does. "Go get'em, dude!"
*Battle rage to Bigby: +2 to melee damage, which I think includes swiping at the bugs w/ your produce flame spell active.
BigbyWolf ( Michael) 21/25 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 26/27 -AC 17 Sunday October 13th, 2019 9:57:57 PM
Feeling the surge of anger course through his veigns from 'Lil's spell, Bigby yells, "rage, rage, you are going to die like the cockroaches you are." But realizing he needs to cast the spell again, he keeps it together and 5' steps back to cast produce flame again. The flame produces to his hand and the anger courses back through his veins.
Sol sub Sunday October 13th, 2019 10:02:58 PM
Sol pulls out the burning hands wand with a move action and moves forward 5' He will mentally prepare to cast this cone on the cockroaches. "If you can I'd move out of there. This will be a cone attack."
ooc: not sure what level wand this is? Level 1? Range 15 ft. Area cone-shaped burst Duration instantaneous Saving Throw Reflex half; Spell Resistance yes
DESCRIPTION
A cone of searing flame shoots from your fingertips.
Any creature in the area of the flames takes 1d4 points of fire damage per caster level (maximum 5d4).
Flammable materials burn if the flames touch them. A character can extinguish burning items as a full-round action.
Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 12/29 Monday October 14th, 2019 6:00:42 AM
Hearing Sol’s warning, Grindar runs out of the swarm .
GM Ryan Link to the map Get them off! Get them off! d6=6 ; d6=6 ; Monday October 14th, 2019 2:04:25 PM
Sol pulls out the wand of burning hands and yells to the others to move out of the attack. {ooc: Wands are lowest level possible unless otherwise stated so 1st level}
Lil snaps out of it touches Bigby on the back filling him with rage before stepping into the bugs to hold them in place.
Bigby feels the rage and yells about killing cockroaches before casting produce flame.
Grindar hears Sols warning and moves away from the swarm.
Caelwyn holds tight to keep the swarm in place.
The swarm stays where it is and bites at Lil and Caelway which gives Sol and Bigby the time the need to attack when ready. {Damage – Caelwyn: 6 | Lil: 6}
Round 10 Swarm AC: 16/16/14 Those on Bigby -- -10 damage*DEAD* Those on Grindar -- -4 damage
Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 21/27; CMD: 15 Monday October 14th, 2019 9:45:24 PM
Caelwyn winces, attempting to move away from Lil in the hopes that the swarm will split up and be easier to take down.
Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 12/29 Tuesday October 15th, 2019 5:30:50 AM
Grindar stands ready to give aid if needed. He hates this feeling of helplessness, and vows to purchase some alchemist fire, and/ or acid next time he has a chance.
'Lil - (Carl) - 20/26 HP - AC 17/11/16 - CMD 15 Tuesday October 15th, 2019 9:22:04 AM
'Lil grits her teeth and bears the cockroach swarm, hoping Bigby and Sol can deal with it quick.
Sol sub d4=1 ; Tuesday October 15th, 2019 11:50:22 AM
Sol considers whether the attack will hit 'Lil or not but decides he has no choice. He attempts to point the cone to hit the corner of the swarm and in a way to hopefully avoid 'Lil and Caelwyn. dmg 1
ooc: assuming it's level 1? lol 1dmg and they get a reflex save.
bigby (mike m) d20+8=14 ; d6+3=8 ; Tuesday October 15th, 2019 11:53:29 AM
Bigby moves up to attack again with his produce flame and with rage. attack 14. Will use hero point to get a plus 8 luck bonus to the roll, which should make it a hit. 8 dmg.
GM Ryan Link to the map Get them off! Get them off! Tuesday October 15th, 2019 12:55:33 PM
Sol singes some of the bugs but it is Bigby who really sinks his metaphorical l teeth into the swarm doing massive damage with his flame. They day is saved by Bigby and his magical flame as the bugs disperse and whatever held them as a swarm is lost.
The buzzing is ended, the area is quiet and blood slows seeps from the heroes of the Sargrass.
120xp each
Sadly the beetle did not carry a large pile of gold or wear magical armor but the two plates of its carapace appear quiet sturdy. Each is roughly the size of a tower shield and appears to have been impervious to both the swarm and to the elements.
The journey awates but you are bloody and the adrenalin as worn off.
'Lil - (Carl) - 26/26 HP - AC 17/11/16 - CMD 15 d6=1 ; d6=2 ; d6=5 ; Tuesday October 15th, 2019 4:51:01 PM
When the cockroaches begin to get gone, 'Lil is shaking with barely contained anger. When they're finally controlled, she begins to scream. It's a guttural, angry, ugly scream.
She removes each piece of her armor, screaming anew as she does and crushing any lingering roaches. She continues ranting as she removes however much of'er clothin' as she needs to to be sure there ain't no bugs left.
Half-naked, she stomps over to the large beetle and grabs one of the wings with her bare hands and yells out, "I HATE THIS STUPID GRASSY DESERT!" as she rips the wing from the beetle and hurls it towards (but not at) the party. She repeats it with the other wing, lifting it over her head as she looks for somethin' to beat with it. Finding nothing, she slams it into the ground and stomps away. "When we get back to town, I'm gonna buy so much alchemists fire. So help me I'll burn all the bugs in this whole darn place."
She's breathin' heavy by the time she makes it back to the rest of the party. Looking around, she swallows and places her hand on the tattoo of Domi on her chest. Positive energy flows outward from her, stitchin' up all the little insect bites (Channel positive energy - 7 HP healed to whole party). "Sol, you got one'a them prestidigiwhatsits to clean all this blood and these insect guts off us?"
Sol sub Tuesday October 15th, 2019 5:24:09 PM
Sol hears 'Lil and cast his Prestidigitation spell on her and anyone else who needs a good cleaning. "Well then, that was certainly gross."
bigby (mike m) Tuesday October 15th, 2019 6:16:30 PM
the flame diminishes from Bigby's hand after spreading the cockroaches. The rage is still coursing through him. He paces up and down and starts hopping up and down. "Calm down, calm down...happy place." Seeing 'Lil doing better, Bigby starts to calm down. He starts breathing deeply and shakes his hands.
Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 12/29 Wednesday October 16th, 2019 10:06:31 AM
Grindar thanks ‘Lil for the healing, and Sol for the clean up, and then asks, “Does anyone have any idea what these things are worth?”
GM Ryan Link to the map Get them off! Get them off! Wednesday October 16th, 2019 2:01:27 PM
Lil reacts very appropriately, stripping her gear after screaming in rage. She takes the time to kill off any stray bugs, as is right and proper, before declaring her hatred for the stupid grassy desert. All that done she provides some healing for the group.
Sol lends a hand to the clean up liberally using his prestidigitation and declaring the whole thing gross.
Bigby dismisses his flame while his rage still courses though him. He paces back and forth looking for his happy place.
Grindar is happy with the healing and the cleaning but wonders what the betel chunks could be worth if sold.
The value of the wings is probably hard to determine without the aid of a creative craftsman. He material is clearly hard, maybe it could be come armor or a shield or just decorative inlays. Still, the value of gold is pretty low at the moment as there is no place to spend a copper within sight.
There is still a long journey ahead of you and this is probably not the last obstacle that will be presented to you. The travel is slow and you occasionally hear the sound of movement in the grasses and even, near the end of the day can see a large shell moving though the grass but it is far enough away to ignore if you like. The Sargrass Plains are yours, attack an unknown or simply crashing for the night.
'Lil - (Carl) - 26/26 HP - AC 17/11/16 - CMD 15 Wednesday October 16th, 2019 4:29:23 PM
*The rage only lasts a round. Bigby should be back to his level-headed self again.
'Lil gathers up her clothes and armor as she cools her jets. She enjoys the freedom of not being bogged down by a bunch'a metal for a moment longer before getting back into her battle gear. She wonders if the shell could be fashioned into a set of armor instead of a shield. She makes a mental note and agrees to carry one of the things (how heavy is it?).
When the sun gets low in the sky, she looks to Grindar for the sign to stop. He knows better than she how long it'll take to get a camp goin'.
bigby (mike m) Wednesday October 16th, 2019 4:48:38 PM
"perhaps a large shell equals larger swarms of bugs. I ain't got the spells for this. Sleep it is."
Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 27/27; CMD: 15 Wednesday October 16th, 2019 8:38:09 PM
Caelwyn, while not reacting as strongly as Lil, understands her feelings. He is not feeling too fond of the Sargrass himself, at the moment. "Good work everyone. I guess we can carry these with us...they may yet prove useful."
He turns to Bigby. "Thank you. We certainly needed your skills there...there wasn't much I could do against those irritating things."
And to Lil: "I'm not feeling too kindly toward this place either...it seems every day something is out to get us. But we shall prevail...Domi has given us all we need."
Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 19/29 Thursday October 17th, 2019 5:16:42 AM
Grindar answers Lil's question by saying, "We have taken a beating, and rest would be prudent, and I agree that this place is really making me second guess my decision to come here, However, there has been one experience that I wouldn't have change for the whole Wold, and that is meeting you guys!"
Sol sub Thursday October 17th, 2019 10:26:55 AM
Sol apreciates the thank yous to the clean up and agrees with rest. After hearing Grindars response, "agree my friends."
GM Ryan Link to the map Get them off! Get them off! Thursday October 17th, 2019 2:55:18 PM
Lil gets her self back in her gear after enjoying the small break and defers to others on when to stop.
Bigby wants no part of the large shell they saw moving and agrees rest is needed.
Caelwyn is not as stron in his reaction but also does not like the Sargrass at the moment.
Sol apricates the thanks for cleaning them up and agrees to rest.
Grindar agrees that after taking a beating rest is a good idea for them all. He also attempts to have a tender moment with the team.
The party sets up camp, eats and prepares for the night. {ooc: Any added healing pre bed time?} Weather the food is cooked or cold you eat, sharpen blades, pick bugs from unmentionable places that prestidigitation missed and generally get settled for the night.
It is dusk just before darkness when there is a stirring in the air and a towering figure appears I the sky. A towering human male in white robes with a shortly cropped white beard. His eyes are either burning with energy or devoid of all emotion, it is hard to tell, they shift and move. His head tilts toward the party and his mouth opens only once as a sentence shakes your bones with its intensity and power. Oddly though you can feel its force it does not so much as disturb the grass around you.
“WHY ARE YOU HERE?”
You can only assume he/it is addressing you.
Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 19/29 Thursday October 17th, 2019 3:42:06 PM
Grindar jumps to his feet, and is about to brandish Bwyell, but something inside him stops, and he instead he answers, ”Sir, that is a good question. Originally we were here seeking fame and fortune, and perhaps a new home, but lately, we have been asking ourselves the same question. The truth is this place seems out to get us, and we are beginning to wonder if it’s worth it. I mean no offense sir. If this place is precious to you please forgive me if it seems like I am bad mouthing the place, because I’m not, I’m simply trying to answer honestly., which is to say, we don’t know anymore. May I ask your name?”
Bigby Thursday October 17th, 2019 4:56:13 PM
Bigby looks sleepily and says, "druid wood." and then goes back to sleep.
Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 27/27; CMD: 15 Thursday October 17th, 2019 10:31:28 PM
Caelwyn also leaps to his feet, his hand on his trident, but he also stops short of threatening such a figure. Diplomacy is the best option here. He waits to hear what the creature will say.
'Lil - (Carl) - 26/26 HP - AC 17/11/16 - CMD 15 Friday October 18th, 2019 10:45:44 AM
'Lil's sure to heal anyone what needs healing before bed. She has plenty of available healing magics left.
***
She wakes up and sees...that. She remembers she was rude to it last time, and that it's probably a power or somethin'. Grindar's already started talkin', so she lets him keep going.
Sol sub Friday October 18th, 2019 11:43:57 AM
ooc, forgot to change the header. Sol "We are here to help our people in rottedam (something like that). How shall we address you?"
GM Ryan Link to the map Get them off! Get them off! Friday October 18th, 2019 12:42:58 PM
Caelwyn leaps to his feet, trident in hand but stops short and waits to hear what is said.
Lil remembers being rude and holds her tongue.
Grindar leaps to his feet about to brandish a weapon but something inside him holds him back and he speaks. ”Sir, that is a good question. Originally we were here seeking fame and fortune, and perhaps a new home, but lately, we have been asking ourselves the same question. The truth is this place seems out to get us, and we are beginning to wonder if it’s worth it. I mean no offense sir. If this place is precious to you please forgive me if it seems like I am bad mouthing the place, because I’m not, I’m simply trying to answer honestly., which is to say, we don’t know anymore. May I ask your name?”
Bigby mutters a simple phrase as he sleeps. “Druid wood.”
The massively enormous visages face dose not change or, if there is a change, the change is very subtle.
Perception DC16 Highlight to display spoiler: { When the question of the Saragrass being worth it one eyebrow, the left one, raises ever so very slightly. Bigbys mention of Druid Wood causes a very small shift of the eyes of the being to Bigby and then in the way you are going. }
There is no intake of breath and the mouth does no open as the following is heard in the heads of the paty. First a very deep but unspeakably quiet hmmmm before, louder then last time.
“WHO ARE YOU HERE?”
{ooc: Feel free to respond but going to keep it moving. Your responses could matter, who knows? Well I know I guess.}
With that the figure fades away over a few seconds leaving you in the now dark Sargrass to yourselves.
Lil heals any and all wounds before you bed down and the night, assuming you set watches as normal, passes without incident. You rise in the morning refreshed and ready to tackle… more grass.
What are you doing as you start moving?
Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 27/27; CMD: 15 d20+2=17 ; Sunday October 20th, 2019 8:04:47 PM
Caelwyn thinks out loud as he prepares to set out. "That must be some aspect of the Sargrass again...do we need to offer it some kind of sacrifice to appease it, perhaps? It doesn't seem outright aggressive, but it's certainly unsure about our presence...
Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 19/29 d20+8=27 ; Monday October 21st, 2019 5:28:25 AM "We are just a group of adventurers who care for each other, and are trying to make something of ourselves" Grindar begins, "As far as what we call ourselves, we haven't really decided on a name yet, though we should probably decide on one soon".
As they begin to head out, Grindar, with Bwyell in hand, takes his place at the head of the pack, looking for anything out of the ordinary. (Perception 27)
'Lil - (Carl) - 26/26 HP - AC 17/11/16 - CMD 15 Monday October 21st, 2019 10:27:23 AM
Who are we here? Welp, that question pretty much guaranteed 'Lil would be up all night ponderin' it. Blast...
"She didn't ask what we are here, or who we were, she asked who we were 'ere...which implies we may be somethin' here that we ain't some place else." She scratches her head. "I'm more violent out here, I noticed. Can't go throwin' things and making a scene in Hook City like ya can out here in the middle of no where. I guess I'm more myself out in the wilderness. Hadn't thought of that, really."
Sol sub Monday October 21st, 2019 11:20:31 AM
"these powers that be ask strange questions." March, march, march...all day long. March, march, march...while I sing this song.
GM Ryan Link to the map Get them off! Get them off! Monday October 21st, 2019 1:20:08 PM
Grindar answers for the group "We are just a group of adventurers who care for each other, and are trying to make something of ourselves. As far as what we call ourselves, we haven't really decided on a name yet, though we should probably decide on one soon"
Lil wonders at the new question and fears she will be up all night pondering it. She poses some thoughts to the group. "She didn't ask what we are here, or who we were, she asked who we were 'ere...which implies we may be somethin' here that we ain't some place else. I'm more violent out here, I noticed. Can't go throwin' things and making a scene in Hook City like ya can out here in the middle of no where. I guess I'm more myself out in the wilderness. Hadn't thought of that, really."
Caelwayn comments on the nature of the aspects. "That must be some aspect of the Sargrass again...do we need to offer it some kind of sacrifice to appease it, perhaps? It doesn't seem outright aggressive, but it's certainly unsure about our presence...” While Bigby simply grumbles about the powers asking strange questions.
100xp Each for thoughtful responses.
Restored and rested the part continues their monotonous journey though the seemingly never ending grass. The immortal power that had questioned you at night fall does not show its face again so there really is little to break up the journey. Further from civilization you can just tell that things are probably more dangerous.
At one point, not 100 yards in front of you something darts though the grass running from your left to right. It is extremely fast but you can only tell its presence by the movement of the grass. After a ten second pause two more grass disturbances dart by disturbing the vegetation. An astute observer of nature would think that these must be creatures that are hardy indeed so as not to be damaged by the grass itself.
Mid day comes and goes and the wheel of time keeps moving. As the day grows you have passed a few different sorts of grass mostly things you have seen before.
Ahead you hear a noise, probably far ahead.
What do you do now? Everyone needs a perception check with their post please.
Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 14/14 AC/T/FF:11/11/10 Active Spells: None d20+1=2 ; Monday October 21st, 2019 3:01:46 PM
((OoC: Nat 1 on Perception, and I can take over again now, thanks for the Sub!))
Sol seeing the original creatures dart in front, but now oblivious, continues on his way without stopping.
Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 27/27; CMD: 15 d20+2=9 ; Monday October 21st, 2019 9:11:23 PM
Perception 9
Caelwyn halts, listening. "Wait...I can't quite make out what that is...does anyone else hear that noise? We'd best proceed carefully..."
Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 19/29 d20+8=11 ; Tuesday October 22nd, 2019 9:59:41 AM
Grindar thinks he hears something, so he stops and listens. (Perception 11)
BigbyWolf ( Michael) 25/25 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 d20+10=16 ; Tuesday October 22nd, 2019 11:23:00 AM
perception 16. "I think I hear a noise. It's far ahead."
'Lil - (Carl) - 26/26 HP - AC 17/11/16 - CMD 15 d20+7=12 ; Tuesday October 22nd, 2019 1:46:30 PM
'Lil's revelation sustains her through the day's slog through the grass. The realization of how free she was out here does lots to keep her spirits high. She alternates between singin' and hummin' when she's not chatting up whoever moseys next to her.
Perception: 12
She pulls out Maya when she 'eres it, prepared to stab what needs stabbin'. She puts her back against Grindar's, or at least close to it. "Eyes open all around, folks. Let's not get surrounded."
GM Ryan Link to the map Get them off! Get them off! Tuesday October 22nd, 2019 3:01:34 PM
Sol wanders on in an oblivious manner.
Caelwyn halts listening…
Grindar knows he hears something but not what.
Lil’s revelation sustains her though the days slog alternating between singing and humming.
Bigby has sharp eyes and notices the one thing that all the others had missed.
About to step forward into yet more grass Bigby alerts the group that something is different. Ahead of them there is a subtle change in the grass that he spotted as being blade grass, a variation on the grass all around you that will cut a person to ribbons.
Blade Grass Highlight to display spoiler: { Will injure if passing though. 1d6 damage DC12 Reflex for half each round }
Further Bigby can see that the subtle changes in the grass continues in a straight line to each side for the limited distance that you can see. It is unclear how deep the blade grass goes but going around would be a more pleasant option. All that however can wait as the sound of rustling in the grass is getting closer….. and closer…… and closer. You have time to prepare and draw weapons before a large opalescent yellow and orange beetle bursts though the grass eyeing the party. The large creature is squat but moves with a swift motion, its two oversized mandibles appear to be remarkably sharp!
Know Nature DC14 Highlight to display spoiler: { This appears to be a variation on a slicer beetle that has adapted to the Sargrass planes. Immune to mind effecting effects and poor flying ability. }
There is more rustling beyond the beetle but it does not appear to be getting closer just moving through.
The beetle may be as surprised to see you as you are it so you can the jump on it.
Map updated. You should have control of your pawns.
Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 27/27; CMD: 15 d20+5=8 ; d8+3=4 ; Tuesday October 22nd, 2019 8:50:37 PM
Caelwyn hopes they can scare the beetle off by a quick, but quiet attack. He raises his shield and steps forward, stabbing with his trident at the creature.
Attack 8, Damage 4
Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 14/14 AC/T/FF:11/11/10 Active Spells: None d20+2=18 ; d20+2=18 ; d3=1 ; Wednesday October 23rd, 2019 3:52:22 AM
Sol, a bit taken aback by this sudden appearance simple casts Ray of Frost, as he doesn't appear to think.
((18 to hit, 1 damage))
BigbyWolf ( Michael) 25/25 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 Wednesday October 23rd, 2019 11:14:01 AM
"woah, woah, you're gonna cut yourself in that grass going after that thing." Bigby casts magic fang on himself.
'Lil - (Carl) - 26/26 HP - AC 17/11/16 - CMD 15 d20+6=12 ; d8+1=2 ; d20+4=6 ; Wednesday October 23rd, 2019 2:27:02 PM
'Lil watches as her friends start tryin'a kill the bug. "Ya know, maybe we could have just let it go by and flatten all this blade grass for us." She hefts Maya. "Now we're gonna have to kill it."
She ain't wantin' to move forward to attack since it's pretty far up there. She summons a spiritual hammer to start beatin' on it instead. It ain't an impressive opening attack, though.
**
Move: Move up with Caelwyn, but keep behind'im Standard: Spiritual hammer on the beetle. Hits AC 12 for 2 damage.
GM Ryan Link to the map Get them off! Get them off! Wednesday October 23rd, 2019 2:45:34 PM
Calewyn advances and tries stabs at the creature but really cannot get close enough to connect. Just as well as his stab would have been off balance. {ooc: I moved you fifteen feet, ½ speed for difficult terrain, feel free to change that move once you look at the map.}
Sol’s is taken aback and launches a ray of frost that connects for minimal damage. {ooc: I moved you up fifteen so you were in range.}
Bigby worns of grass and casts magic fang.
Lil comments that maybe the bug would have passed and made a path if not for the hostile actions. Still she summons a spiritual hammer and bounces it off the shell of the bug.
Grindar is caught unaware and freezes.
The beetle, rising to the challenge, advances on the party but does not get close enough to attack yet due to the thick grasses of the Sargrass Plane. It does however get close enough that it can be hit by those in the front.
Beetle AC: 17/9/17 HP: -1
Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 19/29 d20=10 ; d8=6 ; Wednesday October 23rd, 2019 5:47:40 PM
Grindar snaps out of it, and moves forward to attack the beetle attempting a two handed attack.
10+9=19 for 6+6=12 damage
OOC.. sorry for failing to post yesterday, for some reason I typed it up, but failed to submit it.
Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 14/14 AC/T/FF:11/11/10 Active Spells: None d20+2=5 ; Wednesday October 23rd, 2019 7:37:48 PM
Sol, elated at finally hitting with a spell, tries again.
"At least I managed to strike the creature this time, unfortunately the nature and reactions of animals are not my strong suit."
However this time he misses.
'Lil - (Carl) - 26/26 HP - AC 17/11/16 - CMD 15 d20+6=13 ; d20+4=23 ; d8+3=10 ; Thursday October 24th, 2019 10:03:27 AM
'Lil's spiritual hammer keeps bouncin' off the thing's shell. She moves up into position behind Grindar and stabs with Maya around'im, piercing the beetle's shell!
Move: Step forward Standard: Hit AC 23 for 10 damage
Spiritual hammer hits AC 13 - Miss
BigbyWolf ( Michael) 25/25 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 d20+7=19 ; d2+4=5 ; d20+5=13 ; Thursday October 24th, 2019 11:46:14 AM
Bigby and wolfgang moves to j7 and attacks. 19 attack. 5dmg. Wolfgang bites the beast. att: 13
GM Ryan Link to the map Get them off! Get them off! d20+8=11 ; Thursday October 24th, 2019 2:10:33 PM
Grindar finishes his movement to be near the beetle and connects with a powerful strike.
Sol snaps off another ray of frost but this time it goes wide.
Lil’s spiritual hammer bounces off the hard shell of the creature but her own strike lands true.
Bigby and wolfgang close the distance and Bigby lands an attack as the wolfs jaws fail to find purchase.
The beetle is quite wounded but is not a master strategist, or even that self aware, so it does not give ground it simply attacks back at grinder. One of its mandibles must have been damage as its bite is quite a bit off target. {Hit Grindar: 11}
The grass behind the beetle stirs quickly as something moves quickly from east to west. Further out you can just make out another disturbance in the grass moving at about the same speed as the first but a little behind.
Beetle AC: 17/9/17 HP: -28
Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 14/14 AC/T/FF:11/11/10 Active Spells: None d20+2=20 ; d3=3 ; Thursday October 24th, 2019 4:44:51 PM
Sol flings another Ray of Frost, (Hit, 3 damage)
"Did anybody else see that movement?!?"
Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 19/29 d20=13 ; d20=15 ; d8=1 ; d8=4 ; Thursday October 24th, 2019 5:36:43 PM "I'm not liking the way this looks!", Grindar says as he lets loose a full round attack, on the beetle.
Primary Hand 13+9-2= 20 for 1+4= 5 damage
Off Hand 15+9-2= 22 for 4+4= 8 damage
Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 27/27; CMD: 15 d20+5=6 ; Thursday October 24th, 2019 8:20:30 PM
Caelwyn winces as the beets hits Grindar - that thing packs a punch. He holds his ground just on this side of the blade grass and stabs a the creature again. "Maybe we can scare the second one off if we kill the first one..." But again, his stab glances off the creatures armor.
Attack 6
BigbyWolf ( Michael) 25/25 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 d20+7=24 ; d20+7=24 ; d20+5=9 ; d2+4=5 ; d2+4=6 ; Thursday October 24th, 2019 10:51:22 PM
"dig deep for that fight...more's a coming." claw 24/5 dmg, claw 24/6 dmg, bite 9. [i]if the thing is dead will ready attack for the next one moving through the grass.
'Lil - (Carl) - 26/26 HP - AC 17/11/16 - CMD 15 d20+6=16 ; Friday October 25th, 2019 10:24:30 AM
*I think the 11 on the DM's post was to hit Grindar, not the damage he took.
'Lil watches as Grindar beats the bug down. Hopefully he killed it. Her own spiritual hammer didn't do much (hit AC 16).
Assuming the thing's dead, she casts a bull's strength on 'erself to get ready for the fight to come.
GM Ryan Link to the map Get them off! Get them off! Friday October 25th, 2019 1:31:52 PM
Sol connects with another ray of frosts and questions if the others saw the movement.
Caelwyn attacks again but his weapon cannot get through the carapace of the bug.
Lil’s spiritual hammer fails to connect.
Bigby calls to the others that more may be coming and connects with multiple attacks.
Grindar, like Bigby, connects with two attacks.
Sols ice made a satisfying cracking sound as it connected and the other attacks shattered the carapace ending the threat of the giant beetle.
Behind this oh so epic battle movement can still be seen, almost like a mass of bugs are on the move disturbing the grass. Seconds pass as the party waits then a minute then two and nothing moves closer to you though threw sound and motion you can see that more things are moving past every twenty or thirty seconds. Blade grass on one side and a veritable expressway of beetles on the other the party catches its breath and has a choice of what to do. Fight more beetles? Go east around the blade grass? Go west around the bladegrass? Go though the blade grass? Grow wings and fly?
240xp each!
Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 14/14 AC/T/FF:11/11/10 Active Spells: None Friday October 25th, 2019 6:13:04 PM
Sol looks at the beetles.
"I would suggest avoiding these creatures if possible... we would do better not to anger them."
Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 27/27; CMD: 15 Friday October 25th, 2019 10:55:46 PM
Caelwyn agrees. "Best to avoid these if possible...let's go west and get around them!"
'Lil - (Carl) - 26/26 HP - AC 17/11/16 - CMD 15 Sunday October 27th, 2019 4:38:40 PM
'Lil thought the bugs were charging out. If not, she wouldn't have cast bull's strength. Mind if I ret-con it, Mr. DM?
***
"Yea, I guess we should avoid just chargin' at the bugs." She'll follow whichever direction the party chooses.
BigbyWolf ( Michael) 25/25 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 Sunday October 27th, 2019 6:50:26 PM
Bigby flaps his arms as if to fly away. "that wont work." Bigby looks at everyone else as if to see who's going to run first. can't be the first one to leave, but second works just fine.
Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 19/29 Monday October 28th, 2019 5:25:22 AM
Since no one other than Caelwyn has suggested any other direction, Grindar says, "West it is than" and starts moving west hopefully away from the beetles.
GM Ryan Link to the map Get them off! Get them off! Monday October 28th, 2019 9:48:40 AM {ooc: Sorry Lil, I had meant to say you did not cast the spell or give you the option}
After some discussion the group decides that engaging with the beetles migrating across the Sargrass Plains. They head to the west to move along the edge of the blade grass. There are a few moments where they think they are around only to have the bladegrass come back having only shifted its area for a moment here and there.
While traveling you occasionally see small mice scurrying this way and that, in and out of the bladegrass. Clearly their small size gives them access to the more direct routs.
Know Nature: 12 Highlight to display spoiler: { Watching the mice move, and other small animals, you realize that the beetles are probably working as an instinctual pack to force the small prey animals in one direction for easier hunting. Pretty advanced for insects, possibly a result of living in such a harsh environment. }
Finally, after a couple hours of difficult travel, the bladegrass growth area comes to an end and you can move around it. The day is growing long as you mange to work to the far side of the bladgrass where you find another anomaly. A small area, probably fifteen feet wide, after he blade grass has now Sargrass of any kind growing. The day is long as you have a place to rest easily though you will have a few hours of downtime before dark.
Either way you know you are getting closer and only have a day or two of travel remaining.
'Lil - (Carl) - 26/26 HP - AC 17/11/16 - CMD 15 Monday October 28th, 2019 12:42:34 PM
"Time ta camp, yea? Good." 'Lil removes Ramona from her back and plops her down. "I love'er, but she's a heavy one."
She don't think anyone's hurt, but she'll channel energy to top off anyone who is.
Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 29/29 d20+8=20 ; d20+4=11 ; Monday October 28th, 2019 5:49:31 PM
(knowledge nature 11)
Grindar nods his agreement with 'Lil, and helps get camp set up. With camp is set up, Grindar decides to go hunting/gathering to add some meat and maybe some fresh wild vegetables to the meal. (Survival 20) He asks Bigby and whom ever else that may which to go, if they would like to join him in the hunt/foraging.
Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 14/14 AC/T/FF:11/11/10 Active Spells: None Monday October 28th, 2019 6:01:21 PM
Sol sits down, and does what little he's capable of doing to help set up camp, once Grindar and anyone else who goes out hunting returns, he will pose a question to the group.
"How did you end up in Hook City?"
BigbyWolf ( Michael) 25/25 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 d20+10=12 ; d3=2 ; d20+10=17 ; Monday October 28th, 2019 8:02:20 PM
knowledge nature 12. "these beetles have very instinctual pact tactics. Like coraling their prey. On that note, the hunt is on." Bigby nods to Grindar This guy gets me. and heads out with him. survival to get something to eat 17. Throws whatever he catches on the fire. "Let's eat."
Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 27/27; CMD: 15 d20+2=22 ; Monday October 28th, 2019 10:14:53 PM
Caelwyn leaves the hunting to the experts, and instead focuses on setting up camp and then keeping watch. (Perception: Nat 20)
He also responds to Sol's question. "I heard there was trouble in these lands, and I figured Domi might use me to end the great threat of the Sargrass. I arrived a bit late for that, however, but I was in Hook City regardless."
GM Ryan Link to the map Get them off! Get them off! Tuesday October 29th, 2019 1:05:04 PM
Lil declares it time to camp and plops down Ramona before channeling some spiritual energy to close any nicks and scrapes from the grass,
Grindar and Bigby both head out hunting.
Sol does what he can to set up the camp.
Caelwyn leaves the hunting to others and instead focuses on the camp and keeping watch. He is feeling particularly sharp eyed today and notices every rustle in the grass and passing small creature. Fortunately nothing appears to be coming to try and make a meal of them or enjoy the small grass free area.
The hunters return and, working together, come back with the fixings for a fine meal. Bigby comes back with two large squirrel like animals, they are squirrel like due to the extra set of legs that most squirrels do not have. Grindar returns also bearing on of the not squirrels along with a portion of thick roots that can help to create a nice stew or work as roast vegetables.
As cooking is getting underway Sol directs the conversation asking how people ended up in Hook City.
Caelwyn is first to respond “"I heard there was trouble in these lands, and I figured Domi might use me to end the great threat of the Sargrass. I arrived a bit late for that, however, but I was in Hook City regardless."
Taking your time as you chat you make a passible dinner and have a fairly relaxing night of respite.
The morning will come without incident.
'Lil - (Carl) - 26/26 HP - AC 17/11/16 - CMD 15 Tuesday October 29th, 2019 2:10:17 PM
'Lil stretches as she wakes. "'Bout time this place let us get some sleep, eh?" She pokes around the campfire, seeing if any of last night's haul is still around to eat.
"Anyway, let's get movin', eh?"
Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 29/29 d20+10=23 ; Tuesday October 29th, 2019 6:03:10 PM
Grindar answers Sol's question, "As you know, I didn't travel with you here. Actually I'm from a small town in the Culverwood Forest, not far from the Emerald Kingdom, which is on the northern continent. when I heard tales of the Sargrass returning after the battle with the Sarr, I decided I wanted to check out the place for my self, so I asked our towns most powerful wizard if he would be willing to teleport me here. I believe he said he would have to use greater teleport, but since he and my father are great friends, he teleported me here. Of course I appeared right in the middle of a village of halfling who wanted to eat me, and the rest you know".
In the morning, Grindar helps tear down camp, and than takes his place at the head of the party acting as a scout. (perception 23)
Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 14/14 AC/T/FF:11/11/10 Active Spells: None Tuesday October 29th, 2019 6:17:55 PM
Sol gets up lazily until pushed by the others to awaken more quickly. He then gets his belongings together before heading out, following the rest of the part.
"I am very excited to see what we can do with this druidwood once we have procured a goodly sized amount. It seems to have some very amazing properties."
Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 27/27; CMD: 15 Tuesday October 29th, 2019 10:50:14 PM
"Finding this wood will be the easy part...transporting it is still my chief concern at this point." Caelwyn is hopeful, but a bit unsure of what they will find ahead.
BigbyWolf ( Michael) 25/25 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 Tuesday October 29th, 2019 11:36:00 PM
"hook city, " Bigby says aloud. "It all seems so long ago. We came there to look for adventure, which I think we found, and to look for friends..." Bigby considers for a moment some of the friends they had lost along the way and feels some sadness, but Bigby then looks around at his party and smiles, "which I think we found as well." He listens to the other stories and then prepares for their journey. "as for the druidwood, a way shall present itself. I'm certain we will figure something out."
GM Ryan Link to the map Get them off! Get them off! d20=6 ; Wednesday October 30th, 2019 11:22:46 AM
Bigby shares a little about his journey and is glad that he found new friends.
Grindar also shares a synopsis of his background with the group over the campfire.
Lil is anxious to get moving in the morning.
Sol is excited about the druidwood and its properties.
Caelwyn is concerned about transporting it despite being hopeful as to what they will find ahead.
Rested and ready the groups starts off on their journey yet again. The day comes and goes leading to the next without incident. What ever caused the migration of the beetles has either passed or you are out of the territory as you do not see any major disturbances in the grass as you go. Really, it is quite a peaceful trip and probably a good bonding period for the group which is smaller then it began.
Near the end of the second day since the beetle kerfuffle the landscape changes a bit again. A area clear of the Sargrass is directly ahead in what appears to be a box canyon. The top of a lone twisted and ancient tree can be seen in the middle of the canyon. The walls on each side and the back are roughly twenty feet tall and the contours would appear to be from long gone water wear.
'Lil - (Carl) - 26/26 HP - AC 17/11/16 - CMD 15 Wednesday October 30th, 2019 11:47:11 AM
"Yea, I ain't good with walkin' down the middle of a canyon. That's how they getcha." She looks around. Can they approach the tree from the top of said canyon? Would they need to climb anything difficult?
Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 29/29 d20+10=14 ; d20+10=26 ; Wednesday October 30th, 2019 5:24:08 PM
Grindar will investigate the canyon walls looking for a safeish path down for him and his friends. survival 14, perception 26
Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 14/14 AC/T/FF:11/11/10 Active Spells: None Wednesday October 30th, 2019 7:48:20 PM
Sol looks at it, and nods at Lil's words.
"I agree it seems too secluded to not have something strange going on."
Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 27/27; CMD: 15 d20+2=14 ; Wednesday October 30th, 2019 7:54:46 PM
Caelwyn frowns as he studies the terrain. "Perfect place for an ambush...I agree, some way around would be preferable. Otherwise, we may have to set a trap of our own..."
Perception 14
BigbyWolf ( Michael) 25/25 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 Thursday October 31st, 2019 11:24:19 AM
"it's probably a trap. It's kind of always a trap. This whole place is a giant trap. But what choice do we have. We need that wood." Follows Grindars lead.
GM Ryan Link to the map Get them off! Get them off! Thursday October 31st, 2019 4:02:01 PM
Lil announces that she is not walking down the middle of a canyon.
Sol agrees with Lil thinking it is so secluded to think something unusual is would not be going on.
Bigby states it is probably a trap and that this whole place is a giant try but what choice do they have.
Caelwyn agrees that it is the perfect place for an ambush and would like to find a way around.
Grindar investigates, aloing with the others, away down that do not require walking down the middle of the path.
After about twenty minutes of looking about, under hot sun on a cloudless day, Grindar manages to find a place that can be climbed down with relative ease. {ooc: relative ease being a DC5 climb check} There are enough places where rocks are rough to provide handholds.
As you decide what to do a shadow of a cloud passes over for no more then half a second. By the time you look up any cloud is gone and the day is again bright. Maybe it wasn’t a cloud? Ahh a world with magic can do odd things cant it.
As the darkness / cloud passes there is a caw and a large black rave is sitting on the branch of the tree, head cocked, looking at the group. It briefly rustles its feathers before settling down. Naturally no bird was seen flying in prior to this moment.
Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 29/29 d20=12 ; d20+3=14 ; Thursday October 31st, 2019 5:09:41 PM
In spite of the fact that he's pretty certain the ravens appearance is magical, Grindar feels drawn to the bird, He makes the climb down safely (Climb 12), than carefully approaches the raven all the while talking to it in soothing tones, and saying things like, "Such a lovely bird, what a pretty bird, you're a nice bird aren't you", He's not sure if it understands him, but he's trying to keep it calm, so as to befriend it. (Wild Empathy 14)
'Lil - (Carl) - 26/26 HP - AC 17/11/16 - CMD 15 Thursday October 31st, 2019 5:29:33 PM
'Lil elbows Sol and whispers (loudly), "Hey, why's Grindar talkin' to that bird?"
BigbyWolf ( Michael) 25/25 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 Thursday October 31st, 2019 6:23:55 PM
"what's weird about that? I talk to wolves. Maybe we should call him bird man now."
Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 14/14 AC/T/FF:11/11/10 Active Spells: None d20-1=19 ; Thursday October 31st, 2019 6:53:51 PM
Sol, out of breath from the relatively simple climb, takes a few deep breaths.
"I... think... wooo... that he believes the... bird... has something... to do... with the... shadow that flew... over us."
He takes a few deep breaths.
"Wow climbing is not my strong suit... Corbin can you speak to the raven on our behalf and translate for us?"
Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 27/27; CMD: 15 Thursday October 31st, 2019 11:37:56 PM
Caelwyn stares hard at the raven. "Yes, clearly this is more than it appears...but is it friendly, or not? Perhaps Corbin can tell us..."
GM Ryan Link to the map Get them off! Get them off! Friday November 1st, 2019 2:06:54 PM
Lil elbows Sol to comment that Grindar is talking to a bird. {ooc: Did you climb down?}
Bigby is not sure what is weird about talking to a bird. {ooc: Did you climb down?}
Sol makes it to the bottom out of breath. He suggests that Corbin might be able to speak to the raven.
Caelwyn agrees that it is more then it appears and likes the idea of Corbin talking to it.
Grindar makes it down an starts talking to the bird. Such a lovely bird, what a pretty bird, you're a nice bird aren't you"
The bird cocks its head as Grindar speaks and flaps to the ground, next to the tree a ways back from Grindar. As it gets close to the ground it transforms into an older elf with long green hair who is wearing lose fitting leathers. The elf looks at you.
“Nice? Sometimes. Who are you and why are you in our home.”
'Lil - (Carl) - 26/26 HP - AC 17/11/16 - CMD 15 d20+2=20 ; d20+9=26 ; Friday November 1st, 2019 3:09:52 PM
'Lil gasps as the bird turns into an elf, then chuckles at Grindar's predicament.
Then stops. She doubts the druid is gonna be happy about them taking that wood. This requires diplomacy. She sighs a bit and starts clambering down towards Grindar and the bird-elf. She ain't no climber, but she makes an impressive effort (climb: 20).
"Neat trick, mister. I'm 'Lil, the animal lover here is Grindar, Son of Grindor, wielder of Cyrchwr Mawr. We're here try'na see if there's a way to gather druid wood ta use it ta help rebuild Rattledam." She looks towards the tree. "...but if that's all there is, we sure as heck ain't gonna go choppin' it down." A frown crosses her face. "Pity. Woulda been a lot faster to swoosh around on a boat instead of troddin' through grass to get anywhere. Unless maybe you know something we don't?" She realizes what she said. "I mean, obviously you know a whole bunch we don't. Maybe somethin' about harvesting druid wood in a way what won't do any real harm?"
Diplomacy: 26
Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 27/27; CMD: 15 Friday November 1st, 2019 9:17:54 PM
Caelwyn had a speech ready to go, but allows Lil to take this one. It sounded pretty good to him, anyway, so he simply waits to see how the elf will respond, making no threatening motions or raising his weapons.
Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 14/14 AC/T/FF:11/11/10 Active Spells: None Friday November 1st, 2019 9:35:33 PM
Sol just shuts up. Diplomacy wasn't his strong suit, and Lil was pretty eloquent, he simply waits and watches for anything else going on that he may need to pay attention to.
Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 29/29 Saturday November 2nd, 2019 1:35:51 PM OOC... Yes Grindar climbed down with a 12 climb check roll
Grindar is left speechless as the raven changes into an elf, as such, he has little to say, leaving the talking to 'Lil for the moment.
BigbyWolf ( Michael) 25/25 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 d20+2=16 ; Saturday November 2nd, 2019 4:04:09 PM
Bigby climbs down as well and lets the experts talk. climb 16
GM Ryan Link to the map Get them off! Get them off! Monday November 4th, 2019 9:02:16 AM
Grindar is left speechless as the raven changes into an elf.
Lil, amused by the situation Grindar is in suddenly becomes the face of the party. "Neat trick, mister. I'm 'Lil, the animal lover here is Grindar, Son of Grindor, wielder of Cyrchwr Mawr. We're here try'na see if there's a way to gather druid wood ta use it ta help rebuild Rattledam…. but if that's all there is, we sure as heck ain't gonna go choppin' it down. Pity. Woulda been a lot faster to swoosh around on a boat instead of troddin' through grass to get anywhere. Unless maybe you know something we don't? I mean, obviously you know a whole bunch we don't. Maybe somethin' about harvesting druid wood in a way what won't do any real harm?"
Caelwyn had a speech prepared but finds that he is fine with what Lil has said.
Sol is not a diplomat and stays quiet.
Bigby finishes the climb down and lets the experts talk.
The elfs forehead furrows at Lil, clearly he was not prepared for the onslaught of words the young woman let fly. At the mention of chopping druid wood one eyebrow raises and a slight smile just touches his lips when it is pointed out that he may no more then the newcomers. When Lil’s speech ends the elf is quiet for a moment just staring at her and the party, while he might normally be offended by all of this there is an undeniable charm to the words.
As the elf starts speaking his voice is flat. “Druid wood to help Rattledam? Are you looking for the aid of a druid of the Sargrass or just the wood? What form of aid are you looking for that it would bring you all the way here, to the painstakingly cleared canyon that Vanja and I have kept for so long, in search of wood. What…..” For the last question there is passion in the elfs voice. “Lil the Animal Lover what are the intentions of you outsiders in the Sargrass?”
He looks to each of the party members as he speaks but the last question is clearly directed to Lil.
'Lil - (Carl) - 26/26 HP - AC 17/11/16 - CMD 15 Monday November 4th, 2019 2:19:59 PM
"Well, we came 'ere for the wood, but I sure as heck ain't gonna overlook how much an honest to goodness druid a' the Sargrass could help folks." She stops to gather her thoughts.
"Honestly dude, we're kinda seat of our pantsing this whole thing. I thought we should go get more folks from Hook City to help build out New Rattledam first, but these loveable lunkheads here thought druid wood would help more." She shrugs. "Still think they're all daft, but they're all just so cute, ya know? And I couldn't just go and let my dudes tromp through this place by themselves cause I don't agree with'em.
"What I do know is that people is gonna try and settle new land anytime they can, but this place has tried real hard to kill us. I ain't so sure the best thing I can do for folks is packing them all up and tellin'em to go back to where they came from before bugs or frog-bunnies try and eat'em. Don't think they'd listen, though, so I guess I'd say my intentions is tryin'a keep them folks alive." She frowns a bit. "Can't help this feelin' that we shouldn't be here, though. Like this place ain't meant for the civilized folk that are tryin'a make it a home."
She shakes her head and smiles. "But, we're here, so may as well make the best of it." She looks around. "This is a nice canyon ya got here, by the way. It's nice to be able to walk about without grass tryin'a slow you down."
Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 29/29 Monday November 4th, 2019 5:42:19 PM
Grindar is more than a little impressed with how Lil' is handling herself in the conversation. He is glad that someone with a little more charisma is taking the reigns, being wise enough to know his weakness as well as his strengths.
Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 14/14 AC/T/FF:11/11/10 Active Spells: None Monday November 4th, 2019 5:55:50 PM
Sol simply nods, and agrees with Lil, backing her up with his body language. He is more than happy to let her continue negotiating on their behalf.
BigbyWolf ( Michael) 25/25 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 Monday November 4th, 2019 9:12:23 PM
Bigby is about to say something but then hears 'Lil speak up and then he stops. He hears the word druid and nods, but feels 'Lil's got it. He just points to 'Lil as she speaks.
GM Ryan Link to the map Get them off! Get them off! Tuesday November 5th, 2019 11:59:33 AM 300xp each for finding the druid!
Grindar is impressed and lets Lil continue to handel the conversation.
Sol nods along with Lil happy to let her continue.
Bigby is about to say something to hears Lil and stops.
Lil starts speaking for the party again. "Well, we came 'ere for the wood, but I sure as heck ain't gonna overlook how much an honest to goodness druid a' the Sargrass could help folks." but stops to gather her thoughts. She continues admitting they are making things up as they go along and that her companions thought Druid Wood would help. She talks about people will want to settle new lands and though they might be misguided she is helping keep them alive. Finally she complements the canyon after suggesting that the Sargrass is not meant for people.
The druid listens and gives a very small nod as Lil speaks. "Lil, Friend of Animals, you do you people well with your thoughtfulness of civilizations role in the Sargrass. My fellow druids, ummm, debate this very topic. It is party of why Vanha and I have chosen this spot to make our home. With much work we have push the Sargrass back to make, as you say, a nice canyon."
He turns and walks back closer to the tree clearly expecting you to follow. As he moves he continues to talk. "So you want to help keep ‘folks’ alive Lil, Frind of Animals, I like that. Do your quiet friends think the same? This is a hard place and one you might not be meant to be here but you stay for them? I wonder." he looks to Bigby "You are new are you not? What is your impression? Do you wonder why my people, the Druid of the Sargrass, are so deserving in our minds?" He pauses looking at each of you. "The immortal power’s representation has been replaced by three. Do you think of them? Warper, Weaver and Walker?"
Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 29/29 Tuesday November 5th, 2019 5:38:49 PM
Grindar sheepishly answers the question, "I'll be honest, I haven't really given much thought about the different aspects of the Sarr. Don't get me wrong I respect them and all, only a fool wouldn't, it's just that I know so little about them, and I've served Pantheon since I was a lad, but I'm open to being educated".
BigbyWolf ( Michael) 25/25 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 Tuesday November 5th, 2019 5:44:20 PM
Bigby points at himself and has a puzzled look. "ahem..." He considers what an impression of himself would be. Maybe a snarl of his teeth and showing of his claws and then it hits him...impression like thought. Ahhhhh. "well, don't know I suppose we don't want to harm the Sargrass. We just want to live amongst it and survive as well. And the surviving part has been tough on our town, wo here we are trying to help our tribe survive. As for the warper weaver and walker. I think we met two of them. Can you help us. One druid to another?"
Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 14/14 AC/T/FF:11/11/10 Active Spells: None Tuesday November 5th, 2019 7:22:43 PM
Sol nods with regards to both what Grindar and Bigby say.
"I agree, we wish to show respect to them, and work alongside them. We do not wish to offend them or do them harm, but I know very little about them myself."
Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 27/27; CMD: 15 Tuesday November 5th, 2019 10:38:53 PM
"We have met some of the aspects of the Sargrass, we believe" Caelwyn replies. "I for one would like to know more about them - we wish to respect them in all ways we can while we are here."
'Lil - (Carl) - 26/26 HP - AC 17/11/16 - CMD 15 Wednesday November 6th, 2019 2:30:14 PM
'Lil gets the feelin' this dude wants to hear from everyone else, she she don't say much. When asked about the warper/weaver/walker, she has an opinion, though.
"Lotta good folks back home died when the warper dudes kicked off all that bloodgrass mess. Anyone who thinks that kinda thing is the way to go ain't right in my book. Change ain't supposed to happen that fast. I know they talk about evolution and survival of the fittest, but as far as I can see that's like cheerin' on cancer cause it grows faster than what it's growin' on.
"Walker and weaver...eh, room for both. Sargrass is a big place."
GM Ryan Link to the map Get them off! Get them off! Wednesday November 6th, 2019 3:52:31 PM
Grindar admits he has not thought much about the Sar immortal powers but is open to education.
Bigby is puzzled b the questions before realizing what is being asked. Hs states he wans to live among the grasses and survive.
Sol agrees that they want to show respect and work alongside but he knows little as well.
Caelwyn admits they have met some of the aspects, in a way, and that he would like to know more about them.
Lil lets her feelings be known ending with the Sargrass is a big place.
Biel nods his head and motions for the group to relax saying simply there is no threat here at present. He reaches into a small bag on his hip and pulls out fresh fruit which he offers to the group. Clearly the bag is some sort of extradimensional space as it was not big or lumpy enough to contain the fruit which is being offered.
"Lil, Friend of Animals, you are confusing the Warper-sar with the Sarr that many battled. These new powers are elements of the Sarr, or Sargrass, not a left over part. They, like all powers, look for support and the like mined. What you say, live and let live so to speak, is of course the real way of the Wold."
He nods and speaks some about each Sar. " The Sarr powers are aspects of the original Sarr. The Warper-Sar represents the evoluntionist faction of the Sarr.” this is said dierectly to Bigby "It is thought he is of influence on your people, the Beastfolk. The Weaver sar represents the restorationists factions of the Plains. Those who want to return things as they were before the Sargrass left the plain. The Walker-Sar represents preservation of what we have, I am not sure what if any change that power supports.”
He pauses and looks at each of you. "My brother druids have had conflict over the three aspects that came from one. If you seek the help of the druids it is important to know some and respect the powers.”
"You do not need to answer immediately, think on it. You are safe here and the day is passing quickly. I can tell you feel pressure to act quickly, make things happen, find druid wood and what not. Take a moment and think about what the wood is for, what roll it and your people will play in the Sargrass.”
He looks about. "I know you cannot speak for all but you can guide. I can send you to my brothers but I need to know your hearts.”
Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 14/14 AC/T/FF:11/11/10 Active Spells: None Wednesday November 6th, 2019 6:02:02 PM
Sol nods and listens closely, taking a piece of fruit when offered, and showing great interest in the bag.
"Thank you for the information..."
He says with his mouthful of fruit almost like he's not paying attention, however it's clear he's writing everything down in his notebook.
"I believe we can take some time to think on our plans. I have a few ideas, but I would appreciate the opportunity to meditate on the question, and discuss it with my fellows."
With that he looks to the group, waiting to see how they feel and what they would want to do.
Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 29/29 Wednesday November 6th, 2019 6:12:37 PM
Grindar thinks for a moment, than says, "Sir, since my desire is to see Rattledam, as well as the rest of the Sargrass's old settlements restored, I guess, by default I would side with the Weaver Sarr"
'Lil - (Carl) - 26/26 HP - AC 17/11/16 - CMD 15 Thursday November 7th, 2019 10:58:36 AM
"Am I, though?" 'Lil responds to the druid's statement about the Warper-sar. "And I mean that as a question, not a challenge. It still seems to me they're big on change for the sake'a change. Just don't sit well with me. Don't mean I see'em as evil or a force to be dealt with, but the whole philosophy just isn't my cup'a whiskey."
She huddles with her dudes. "Think you mean Walker-sar there, Grindar. Weaver wants to make the plains a big forest again...I think. They wanna restore what the Sargrass overtook. That seems kinda sore-loserish to me, though."
BigbyWolf ( Michael) 25/25 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 Thursday November 7th, 2019 11:52:33 AM
Bigby nods and agrees to sol's thought.
GM Ryan Link to the map Get them off! Get them off! Thursday November 7th, 2019 7:43:01 PM
Grindar speaks up first. Respectfully he explains that his desire is to see Rattledam as well as the rest of the Sargrass old settlements restored which he thinks aligns him with the Weaver-Sarr
Sol takes in the information and thinks that should discuss the question as a group.
Bigby nods and agrees with Sol’s thoughts.
Lil questions the comments of the druid, not as a challenge, saying their philosophy is not her cup of whisky and suggests that the group should discuss.
Beil nods at the comments of the team and is in no way feeling challenged by Lil’s comments. You actually get the idea that this solitary druid is enjoying the conversation. As the group talks among themselves he moves to the tree and places his hand on it possible in thought though he also may be communicating with it.
After a minute or two of silent touching the his druid tree he turns back. He nodes to Bigby saying that he is sure that what he is about to say is already known to him, at least on some level.
“You of course know that the druids of the Sargrass were in tune with the Sarr as we are attuned to the last which it embodied. With three aspects our drudic circle is not the cohesive whole it once was. This is why I ask questions.” he looks at his canyon “I would think that the amount of work we have put in to make this area free of the grasses would tell you that we are no aligned with the other druids in the area. If we were we would not be alone.”
“Grindar Son of Grindor, you speak of the restoration aspect most closely I think. You wish the Sargrass to be what it was and not evolve it into yet another form. You do not seek to change its nature it would seem?”
He nods to the his companion the druid tree. “She would talk with you, any of you, if you place your hand on her trunk. You have our permission if you are willing.”
Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 27/27; CMD: 15 Thursday November 7th, 2019 9:02:53 PM
Caelwyn nods understandingly as the druid mentions his canyon. "In all honesty, I completely understand your attempts to be rid of the overwhelming grasses - I am sympathetic to that view, for sure. Thank you for your permission, I believe it would be worth our while to see what your companion has to say..."
Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 29/29 Friday November 8th, 2019 5:28:46 AM "Well Sir, as a Ranger I can see the beauty of the wilds, and even the grasses have their place, but I also see the value in civilization, and a relatively safe society. That is why I wish to see the Sargrass restored, so the people who will come, even if we tell them to stay away, will find a relatively safe place to call home and raise families".
After sharing his thoughts, Grindar reaches our to touch the tree.
'Lil - (Carl) - 26/26 HP - AC 17/11/16 - CMD 15 Friday November 8th, 2019 10:38:24 AM
"Wait, the tree can talk? I gotta see this."
'Lil quickly makes her way to the tree and places her palm against the trunk. "Um, hello? Miss tree? Am I doing this right?"
BigbyWolf ( Michael) 25/25 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 Friday November 8th, 2019 11:40:40 AM
Bigby walks forward and places hands on tree. "Hello tree. I'd like to order some druid wood please." Wolfgang walks over and smells the tree and then lifts his leg and... Bigby gives Wolfgang a stern look and says to him, "not this one Wolfgang." Wolfgang puts his leg down and looks disappointed.
Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 14/14 AC/T/FF:11/11/10 Active Spells: None Friday November 8th, 2019 5:42:52 PM
Sol suddenly smiles brightly and widely at the prospect of being able to talk to the tree and moves over, as respectfully as his excitement will allow, before placing a hand delicately on the tree, and thinking.
Hello? Can you understand me?
GM Ryan Link to the map Get them off! Get them off! Friday November 8th, 2019 6:02:13 PM
Images fill the mind of all who touch the tree moving very fast, possible backwards, at a rate that the mind can barely comphrend. The images slow and jump once, twice and settle on a view over the shoulder of a large Minotaur. Around him are the remains of a battle a halfling wizard is flying to one side while a human, dressed in the manner of a barbarian, is seen his chest heaving as he recovers. Others heroes can be seen. After a moment a satyre is seen speaking but not heard, there is no sound in this vision. Suddenly you FEEL like you are in the vision.
The satyre rises several inches off the ground as golden light appears and coalesces into a portal above the Keepers heads. A divine force lifts the group into the air and pulls all those near into the portal. At first you fell you are falling up and then the odd sensation of movement but non-directional. Your mind says you are moving, very fast, but your inner ear calls your mind a liar. Still trying to process what is happening your minds tell you you are moving up and then left and then up and down. Your stomachs clenches but you somehow feel at peace. As it is only a vision you are ok but you know if you had been there there is a large chance you would be ill.
Still moving, maybe, you have a perspective now outside of time and space to see a spectacular sight. It appears and entire land mass is transitioning from the Valleys of Twilight back to the Wold. The eternal Lady Maap, Queen of the Fey, rule of the Vales of Twilight, is far off guiding the movement of the land mass between domains.
The world stops you stand looking over the same group a form, humanoid but made of blood red sargrass can be seen a mile off. The form is enormous, bigger then most any living thing you had heard of and turns into a vine/grass/plant thing nearly one hundred and fifty feet wide and four thousand feet tall.
Around it you see other groups and silent witness the Battle of the Sarr and the return of the Sargrass.
The battle ends. Finally, there is a huge writhing as three final gigantic creatures emerge from the defeated Sarr. They are so large -- a hundred or two hundred feet high -- that in emerging they rip the Sarr asunder! These three figures seem familiar to those who encountered images when you broke the crstals that had infected your homelands: they are the mysterious figures, here born as the new powers of the Sargrass Plains.
One with the oak leaf circlet transforms into a gigantic treant. One on stilts transforms into the mother of all Sarg moths. One with wings transforms into a series of flickering bestial shapes.
They speak together in unison. Each of the Powers says a different word when there is a choice in brackets.
“WE ARE THE SARR [REBORN/BORN/EVOLVED]! WE THANK YOU, HEROES OF THE WOLD, FOR YOUR PART IN BRINGING THE PLAINS BACK TO THE WOLD!”
“WE ARE GRATEFUL FOR YOUR ROLE IN [ENDING/TAMING/CURING] THE [THREAT/CHALLENGE/DANGER] OF THE BLOODGRASS.”
“WE HAVE [CONCEDED/AGREED/VOWED] THAT WE MUST NOT WAR AMONG OURSELVES, FOR THAT WOULD DESTROY OUR HOME FOREVER.”
The images fade and color takes its place coming in and out, emotions, communication you know what the tree is saying. This is what happened to bring the Sargrass back. This is where the powers came from. You impression that sharing this was a very large deal for Vanja as it is the most important event in the Sargrass and its return.
The images stop and your normal site returns. It is very dark. Clearly this took more time then it felt. Biel speaks quietly.
“Ahh you where showing the past, I did not know that Vanja would start there. Think on this and discuss. Tomorrow Vanja and I will contribute more, tell a new story. The story of the Bloodboil.
Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 27/27; CMD: 15 Friday November 8th, 2019 11:37:00 PM
Caelwyn is amazed by the visions. "This is what I had hoped to find when I first came here...what I heard the great threat to the Wold was. But the Bloodboil is new to me...we will certainly discuss this, and I look forward to hearing more."
'Lil - (Carl) - 26/26 HP - AC 17/11/16 - CMD 15 Saturday November 9th, 2019 3:17:59 PM
'Lil's kinda always wished she coulda been there. A fight that epic, and she was home makin' sure ma's dinner wasn't just rum. What a waste. It's part of the reason she's here.
She does realize for the first time that the Weaver and Walker Sarr powers didn't consider Warper Sarr to be a threat. She wonders why that didn't occur to her before.
Before heading off, she leaves her hand on Vanja. "Thanks for the history lesson, Vanja. I'll see ya tomorrow!" Then she turns to Biel. "And thank you too, dude. I've got some new stuff to think about before tomorrow's story. I ain't heard that one yet!"
Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 29/29 Sunday November 10th, 2019 12:52:49 PM
Grindar ponders the vision , but keeps his thoughts to himself. I did often wonder what the most famous battle of recent times looked like, but he would have never guessed he would someday see it for himself. He thanks Vanja and says, “I look forward to what you would show us tomorrow”.
BigbyWolf ( Michael) 25/25 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 Monday November 11th, 2019 6:27:21 PM
"Are these the heros that the kids were playing with? Hmmm..." Bigby feels tired. Off to bed I suppose.
Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 14/14 AC/T/FF:11/11/10 Active Spells: None Monday November 11th, 2019 6:38:08 PM
Sol immediately smiles widely and starts shaking slightly with excitement, his normal cheery but relatively calm self goes out the window and gives way to what can only be described like an excitable puppy.
"That was the single most impressive thing I have ever experienced! That was amazing! I will need to note all this down in my journal... I mean... to actually be able to witness an historical event like that... we are privileged indeed."
Boxed Set
DM Steve -- "We will certainly discuss this, and I look forward to hearing more." Monday November 11th, 2019 11:01:34 PM
The party settles down for the night, talking amongst themselves, after "seeing" the story of the return of the Sargrass as told by Vanja. Biel leaves you in a clear part of the gulch, free of the grass for the first night in about two weeks. Biel has not prohibited you from exploring his canyon, but he also has not invited you to do so. With night coming on swiftly, there is not time to see much now.
Whether you set up watches or no, the night passes uneventfully.
In the morning, you wake early. You do not see Biel. Vanja stands where she has been, swaying gently in a light breeze in the middle of her clearing.
Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 29/29 d20+10=19 ; Tuesday November 12th, 2019 6:00:58 AM
Grindar rises with the dawn and decides go go hunting/foraging. He asks Bigby and the others if they would like to join him in the hunt. (Survival 19) After the hunt/ foraging expedition, regardless of it's success, he will make breakfast for his new family, and wait for their host to return before addressing Vanja again.
BigbyWolf ( Michael) 25/25 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 d20+10=18 ; Tuesday November 12th, 2019 12:39:19 PM
Bigbys eyes widen at the word hunting. and he shakes his head up and down and is a little embarassed at how excited he is right now, but he just goes with it. "i'll go Grindar." survival 18.
'Lil - (Carl) - 26/26 HP - AC 17/11/16 - CMD 15 Tuesday November 12th, 2019 1:30:50 PM
'Lil stretches as she wakes up, glad to not be staring up at grass for once.
"Morning, Vanja!" she says, loudly, when she stands. Either she just scared away Grindar's breakfast, or she flushed it out.
Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 14/14 AC/T/FF:11/11/10 Active Spells: None Tuesday November 12th, 2019 2:21:10 PM
Sol awakens last, having gone to sleep a little bit later, after writing all his experiences down in his journal, Lil's loud welcome is what eventually wakes him up, he drags himself out of his bedroll and begins packing it up.
"Good morning Vanja, how are you doing today?"
DM Steve -- "I'll go." Tuesday November 12th, 2019 10:24:30 PM Grindar rises with the dawn and decides go go hunting/foraging. After a successful hunting and foraging expedition, he makes breakfast for his new family.
Bigby goes with Grindar, contributing equally to the meal.
'Lil greets Vanja, then worries about scaring her companions' game.
Sol awakens last, at Lil's loud welcome to the tree. "Good morning Vanja, how are you doing today?"
Biel shows up around mid-morning. "Well, you've had time to consider your questions. I suppose we should begin."
"So, you are here looking for druid wood and perhaps the aid of a druid. 'Lil, Friend of Animals, you want to keep folks alive. You, little druid, want to live among the grasses and survive. You, Grindar, want to see Rattledam and the old Sargrass settlements restored. And scribe, Sol, you appear to want to know everything. Also, your other friend wanted to know more of the aspects of the Sargrass. You have all encountered the aspects of the Sarr, asking questions about what you want, and I have asked the same. You said you needed time to discuss it, but I doubt that you did much discussing during the morning hunt. So I will not expect an answer yet on what you think of Warper, Weaver and Walker. Let's find out instead what questions you have for me. Once you have asked any you have now, we can tell you the story of the bloodboil."
Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 29/29 Wednesday November 13th, 2019 5:34:08 AM "Sir", Grindar begins, I would like to know your views. I know you mentioned something about wanting a place away from the grasses, and so you maintain this canyon, but I would ask you: what is your true feelings, who do you align with?"
'Lil - (Carl) - 26/26 HP - AC 17/11/16 - CMD 15 Wednesday November 13th, 2019 10:42:58 AM
"How much animosity exists between them three aspects, anyway? I saw they all decided they need to work together and whatnot, but that don't mean they like each other."
BigbyWolf ( Michael) 25/25 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 Wednesday November 13th, 2019 12:54:08 PM
"What do the aspects want from us? Why do they keep approaching us? Do they want to help or harm us?"
Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 14/14 AC/T/FF:11/11/10 Active Spells: None Wednesday November 13th, 2019 6:47:46 PM
Sol thinks.
"I think the more important question is how can we help the Aspects of the Sarr?"
Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 27/27; CMD: 15 Wednesday November 13th, 2019 9:01:38 PM
Caelwyn echoes Lils question. "I wondered that as well...do the aspects of the Sargrass works together? Or are they hostile to one another? That would certainly complicate things for us, if that was the case..."
DM Steve -- A place away from the grasses Wednesday November 13th, 2019 10:14:25 PM Grindar begins, "I would like to know your views. What is your true feelings, who do you align with?"
'Lil asks, "How much animosity exists between them three aspects, anyway? I saw they all decided they need to work together and whatnot, but that don't mean they like each other."
Bigby adds, "What do the aspects want from us? Why do they keep approaching us? Do they want to help or harm us?"
Sol thinks before saying, "I think the more important question is how can we help the Aspects of the Sarr?"
Caelwyn echoes 'Lil's question. "Do the aspects of the Sargrass work together? Or are they hostile to one another?"
Biel thinks a while before answering. When he does, the conversation is a long one, with pauses and questions. Summarized, you gather:
As you have seen, the three aspects were born of one divided power. The long wait was as hard on the Sarr as it was on those of us who lived here. I don't pretend to know the mind of a power, but the mind of the Sarr became divided, reflecting the minds of the peoples here. Finally, the crisis with the bloodgrass resulted in a literal separation of the power into the Warper, Weaver, and Walker. They have different goals, but no aspect can attain its goal if the Sarr is destroyed in their struggles for dominance over each other.
When they divided, the three aspects realized that they cannot war among themselves. That has not made them less intent on their different goals. I think that they are trying to gather followers who will carry out the struggle for them. You have been approached several times. They will keep approaching until you choose a side. So do they want to help or harm you? That depends on what you consider helpful or harmful -- preservation, restoration, or change.
The druids of the Sargrass are famous for being restorationists. But we debate the wisdom of aligning with an aspect. Some have eagerly done so, others do not trust this change. You have not committed yet, although some of you have indicated preferences in the answers to my questions.
In time, Biel breaks off the conversation. "That brings us to the story of the Bloodboil, but I think we should have lunch first. While we eat, do you have any more questions?"
Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 29/29 Thursday November 14th, 2019 5:44:44 AM
Grindar eats his lunch in peace, trying to wrap his head around all this, then asks, "Do you believe the 3 aspects are trying to obtain our allegiance, as in convert us to become their worshipers, or simply wish us to follow their agendas?"
BigbyWolf ( Michael) 25/25 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 Thursday November 14th, 2019 12:07:26 PM
"agendas...perhaps...or perhaps all of this is something bigger directing out future story." Bigby snaps out of his thought provoking theory, "or maybe its just an allegiance thing like you said."
Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 14/14 AC/T/FF:11/11/10 Active Spells: None Thursday November 14th, 2019 4:44:45 PM
Sol shakes his head, indicating he has no further questions at this time, and eats his lunch quietly, weighing up the options, and what the Sarr wants and needs. He doesn't say anything at this time unless asked a direct question, he is clearly lost in thought.
Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 27/27; CMD: 15 Thursday November 14th, 2019 9:03:48 PM
Caelwyn finds himself wishing that the Sargrass was a bit friendlier to the inhabitants...maybe with less, well, grass. "So the Warper is for preservation, the weaver is for restoration, and the walker is for change? What kind of change? And what does the weaver want to restore, exactly?"
DM Steve -- A place away from the grasses Thursday November 14th, 2019 10:43:26 PM Grindar eats his lunch in peace. "Do you believe the 3 aspects are trying to obtain our allegiance, as in convert us to become their worshipers, or simply wish us to follow their agendas?"
Bigby has a thought provoking theory, "agendas...perhaps...or perhaps all of this is something bigger directing out future story. or maybe its just an allegiance thing like you said."
Sol has no further questions at this time, and eats his lunch quietly.
Caelwyn finds himself wishing that the Sargrass was a bit friendlier to the inhabitants...maybe with less, well, grass. "So the Warper is for preservation, the weaver is for restoration, and the walker is for change? What kind of change? And what does the weaver want to restore, exactly?"
"Not exactly," Biel explains, "The Warper is for change. The Walker preserves the way things are. The Weaver restores the Sarr to the way it was before the grass. He's the one most druids follow."
Biel falls silent while the group eats. When everyone is done, he suggests that you all approach Vanja to learn the story of the Bloodboil.
As you make contact with the tree, you have visions like the previous time. You "see" events in your mind, even though you are still somewhat aware of events around you.
The party sees two sickly druid trees and feels a great evil about them. The party sees that the trees were once druid trees, but developed a rivalry that turned to hatred of each other. Somehow, they destroyed each other, remaining alive, but undead.
The party sees the nearby carcass of a flying Sargrass Moth. As the scene returns to the twisting trees, the party realizes that there is a Sargrass Moth carcass nearby. They see the moth flying and finding the twisting trees fighting with each other. As the trees fight, Sargrass surrounds them. They are no longer able to resist the grass, and are being overgrown by it. The moth lands, flattening the grass, and plunges its proboscus in the ground. Red fluid beings seeping out of the ground as the moth pulls away, but the moth keels over and stops moving.
The red fluid keeps seeping out and collects into a small pool, eventually growing into a pond. The pool reaches the roots of the twisting trees, and they start to heal. As the trees heal, the Sargrass around them wanes. Finally, there is a large clearing within the grasses. In the clearing are two healthy trees, the pond, and the carcass of the moth. As time passes, the carcass remains a carcass and the twisting trees slowly become healthier. But the trees have not regained the full vitality they once had when the vision stops.
When the vision ends, it is approaching evening. Biel tells the party that the pond is called Bloodboil, and that it keeps healing the twisting trees through mutation. He also explains that the moth is a rare sight and a holy one as it has never been devoured. "In the morning, we can talk over what you have seen. As to the aspects, I think they would accept worshippers or followers of their agendas. I know that there are some priests devoted to them."
'Lil - (Carl) - 26/26 HP - AC 17/11/16 - CMD 15 Thursday November 14th, 2019 11:19:48 PM
OOC: Wife had surgery and I thought I could post in time, but I guess not.
'Lil wakes from the vision with a shake, then listens to what Biel has to say. "Ya know I'm already a priest, right? I can't very well do any devoting to any other powers. I can say I prefer the ideals of the preservationists, which I guess I do, but I ain't about to start workin' towards the goals of no Power but my own. I'll think over what I saw, though."
When the druid's gone, she turns to her friends. "Dudes, I signed up to scope this place out and protect folks, not sign onto a holy nature war. I ain't likin' this."
Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 29/29 Friday November 15th, 2019 5:43:35 AM
Grindar responds to 'Lil by saying, "While I do appreciate the history lesson, a history we should be aware of if we are going to continue living here, I tend to agree with you sister. That said, if fighting in a "holy nature war", as you call it, can lead to making the Sargrass a safer place, then we have to try to do what we can".
BigbyWolf ( Michael) 25/25 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 Friday November 15th, 2019 10:47:29 AM
"I agree there is something going on here that we need to be aware of. I'm thinking our choices will lead us one way or another however. But as you say there's no need for us to choose allegiance."
Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 14/14 AC/T/FF:11/11/10 Active Spells: None Friday November 15th, 2019 7:40:04 PM
Sol thinks for a moment.
"I am not sure we will get that luxury my friends. It seems that these three powers will want us to side with one of them, whether we wish to or not. In any case, each of them may assume we are working for a different one and act in a way we find counterproductive."
He sighs.
"But I agree a Holy War is not what we signed on for, but I fear it may be unavoidable."
DM Steve -- A place away from the grasses d20=9 ; Friday November 15th, 2019 11:19:23 PM 'Lil wakes from the vision with a shake, then listens to what Biel has to say. "Ya know I'm already a priest, right? I can't very well do any devoting to any other powers." When the druid's gone, she turns to her friends. "Dudes, I signed up to scope this place out and protect folks, not sign onto a holy nature war. I ain't likin' this."
Grindar responds to 'Lil by saying, "While I do appreciate the history lesson, a history we should be aware of if we are going to continue living here, I tend to agree with you sister. That said, if fighting in a "holy nature war", as you call it, can lead to making the Sargrass a safer place, then we have to try to do what we can".
Bigby agrees. "I agree there is something going on here that we need to be aware of. I'm thinking our choices will lead us one way or another however. But as you say there's no need for us to choose allegiance."
Sol thinks for a moment. "I am not sure we will get that luxury my friends. It seems that these three powers will want us to side with one of them, whether we wish to or not. In any case, each of them may assume we are working for a different one and act in a way we find counterproductive. I agree a Holy War is not what we signed on for, but I fear it may be unavoidable."
Before Biel leaves the group to its own devices for the evening and night, he asks a few questions. "Who was good? Who was evil? Who was right? Who is deserving of life? In case you did not know it, the Weaver appears as a treant or half-elf with a wreath of oak leaves. The Walker appears as a sargmoth or a man on stilts. And the Warper is a beastman, usually with wings and bloodweed armor, and often changes shape. In any case, I will leave you to your discussions tonight, and tomorrow you will answer my questions and may try to persuade me to help you find my brethren. And you will also need to explain how you found me. Yes, I think I need to know that as well. At the moment I am inclined to tell you where to find them, but I should think on it more carefully first."
The night passes without event, and you wake early in the morning. This time you are not awake long before Biel appears. After you get ready to begin the day, he gives you the chance to state your case.
Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 27/27; CMD: 15 Sunday November 17th, 2019 10:09:24 PM
Caelwyn, in the previous night's discussions, had shared Lil's concerns. "We certainly do not want to be involved in a real conflict such as this. But at the same time, we ourselves would be bringing considerable change to the Sargrass by creating new sorts of settlement here...so, in a sense, isn't our side already chosen for us? We cannot support the Walker, for he simply wants the status quo to remain. And I am a bit unsure of the Warper, and what kind of change he wants...the Weaver, and a return to the old ways of the Sargrass, might be most to our advantage."
Caelwyn awakens, thinking to himself about how to explain their situation best to Biel...
Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 29/29 Monday November 18th, 2019 5:37:47 AM "I tend to see things your way brother", Grindar says, agreeing with Caelwyn, "If we want Rattledam and the rest of the Sargrass's settlements to be restored to their former glory, or some resemblance there of, and the Sargrass to become a safer place for habitation, than going back to the good old days seems the most logical. Unless of course, the Warper Sarr actually wants to evolve this place into some sort of paradise for the habitation of the intelligent races, which doesn't seem to be his MO".
BigbyWolf ( Michael) 25/25 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 Monday November 18th, 2019 10:24:25 AM
Bigby nods his head. "this seems like one of those times where a decision leads to this and that. Like further consequences and such, which can be nerve racking and all. But it's hard to live life that way I say. I'll go with whatever you guys choose. Let's chose it and be done, and face the consequences that follow. We will face them together."
'Lil - (Carl) - 26/26 HP - AC 17/11/16 - CMD 15 Monday November 18th, 2019 2:41:01 PM
"Hold on, folks. I ain't sure you're looking at this right.
"We got a whole bunch-a people who have lived in the Sargrass as it is now for a long, long time. I don't think anyone's alive what ain't immortal who remembers a time when the Sargrass wasn't the grass desert it is now.
"We really gonna work against all these cultures that's already here, just so a bunch'a dudes from Hook City can set up shop and start exploitin' the local resources? Ya'll don't really think that's a good idea, do ya?"
Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 29/29 Monday November 18th, 2019 5:33:33 PM
"I understand what you are saying 'Lil, and to be honest, I don't care if the Sargrass is a forest of trees, or a forest of grass, the problem I have with the Walker-Sarr is, I don't know how flexible he is. He says he wants everything left as it is, well that's all fine and good, except we want to tame parts of the plains, and make them a safe place to dwell, as well as, make travel safer. I simply don't know if that is something he is OK with, and without that knowledge, it's hard for me to see his side. I would be open to seeing his side if he was to let people know more clearly what he means by preserving things as they are".
Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 14/14 AC/T/FF:11/11/10 Active Spells: None Monday November 18th, 2019 6:02:20 PM
Sol thinks, but doesn't say anything as the rest of the party weigh up their options, and give out their opinions.
"I perhaps think we should find out more about the Warper and the Weaver. I agree with Caelwyn, the Walker will be at odds with no matter what we choose to do. However the Warper and the Weaver both could potentially beneficial, if the Warper wishes to help turn the Sargrass into a liveable area he would be a good ally, possibly better than the Weaver, if Warper wishes to turn the Sargrass into a desolate grassland, then we should ally with the Weaver. But we need more data to make the determination."
Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 27/27; CMD: 15 Monday November 18th, 2019 10:06:30 PM
" I agree, we need more exact information, which might be difficult to obtain..."
DM Steve -- A place away from the grasses Tuesday November 19th, 2019 12:00:58 AM
During the night, the party discusses their position. Caelwyn does not want to be involved in a struggle between powers, but doubts that the Walker will allow the group to change the Sargrass. Therefore he thinks they must support the Weaver. Grindar agrees, although he says there might be a slim chance the Warper-Sar wants to create a paradise. Bigby finds the choice nerve-wracking, but wants to be done with it. 'Lil says the Walker is the correct choice if they follow Caelwyn's logic. Caelwyn reiterates that the Walker might not like changes resulting from people moving in. Sol argues that the party needs more information, particularly about the Weaver and Warper. They might leave the place more livable than it is now. Caelwyn agrees.
All in all, the party has not reached an agreement by the time Biel returns with his questions.
"Have you considered the story of the Bloodboil? Who was good?" When the party isn't ready to answer him right away, he tries a different approach.
"Since you are looking for druid wood, you plan on seeking my more traditional brothers. They are a stiff-necked lot, and hate the story we told you yesterday because it calls their beliefs into question. But you have been in the Sar for a while. What cultures have you encountered, and how have they treated you?"
Sense motive DC: 15 Highlight to display spoiler: {Clearly, Biel is looking for an answer from you. The question that seems most important to him is what you think of the story of the Bloodboil. How you answer will influence how he helps you.} DC:20 Highlight to display spoiler: {Biel would be surprised if you have been welcomed anywhere without first proving yourself.}
"The aspects argue with each other, but they also have a great deal in common."
Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 29/29 d20+2=10 ; Tuesday November 19th, 2019 5:47:33 AM
Sense Motive 10
Grindar tries to answer Biel by saying. "The story is a tragic one, yet very cryptic, but since there was a feeling of evil surrounding the trees before the moth arrived to intervene, I can't say the trees were good. I would like to say that the moth was the good one, but since the the trees never reached their full potential, and the only thing that keeps them alive is the pool which only does so through mutation, which I believe is why they never return fully to their former glory. I believe the moth had good intentions, but failed to fix the situation completely, instead creating more of a compromise, which seems to me more of a neutral thing to do. I guess I don't see a clear candidate for good in the story. I can be wrong, and often am, and would be open to a better explication".
'Lil - (Carl) - 26/26 HP - AC 17/11/16 - CMD 15 d20+10=17 ; Tuesday November 19th, 2019 10:51:19 AM
Sense motive: 17
"I can't tell from that story if it's a real thing that happened, or some kinda allegory. What I hear is two evil, bickerin' trees got themselves killed bein' evil, then the Sargrass swooped in cause of it. Then this moth comes round and mucks it all up by artificially keepin' them alive.
"End result is two trees that you ain't said aren't evil anymore being kept alive and mutated, pushin' away some grass ain't no one said is evil.
"And that moth? I don't see what the fact that it ain't decayed means. What I do know is that a lotta evil's been done in the world trying to find a compromise between two things when one of'em's bad. If one side says they wanna kill everyone, and the other says they don't wanna kill everyone, the right answer ain't killin' half of everyone." She pauses to think. "I guess bottom line is ain't no one good in that story, based on all the info I had. Maybe that bloodboil thing cleansed some evil taint from the trees, or maybe they're still evil but being kept alive and mutated 'cuz of that moth. Can't assume that, though."
She shrugs. "Maybe if I had more understanding, I'd have a different answer. Based just on what I saw, I don't see no one bein' good. Don't see no one bein' evil except those two original trees either though."
Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 14/14 AC/T/FF:11/11/10 Active Spells: None d20+1=14 ; Tuesday November 19th, 2019 5:48:20 PM
Sol nods.
"I agree with you Lil, but that still does not help us, we will end up working either with or against the Powers of the Sarr, we had best understand what they want, so we can decide which one we may wish to associate with, since however we do things, we will end up associating with one, as each represents some measure of what we may wish for the Sargrass."
Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 27/27; CMD: 15 Tuesday November 19th, 2019 10:37:34 PM
"The moth is clearly special here...whatever it did, it healed, to some extent, the hurt and rivalry, even the undeath of the trees. This must mean something."
BigbyWolf ( Michael) 25/25 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 Tuesday November 19th, 2019 10:52:17 PM
Bigby listens to the talking points and seems to debate with Wolfgang about what to do.
DM Steve -- A place away from the grasses Tuesday November 19th, 2019 11:32:12 PM Grindar tries to answer Biel by providing an explanation that maybe the moth was good but more likely no one was. 'Lil states that she can't really tell what is happening in the story, which clearly disappoints Biel. She also concludes there is no obvious good in the story, although the trees were evil. Sol agrees with 'Lil, but predicts that the party will align with one of the aspects someday. Caelwyn says, "The moth is clearly special here...whatever it did, it healed, to some extent, the hurt and rivalry, even the undeath of the trees. This must mean something." Meanwhile, Bigby remains silent, listening.
Biel is apparently pleased at Caelwyn's answer.
Ooc: Biel has asked a number of questions in these conversations, including how you found him. Even though it hasn't been the focus of your posts, is there any reason you would not have told him?
"I think I have heard enough to decide that I will help you, but I must think on how I will do so. But I see that I have assumed you would know things that you need to have explained. The sarg moth" (which, by the way, looked like a cross between a huge, segmented worm and a bat or possibly dragon) "is a rare and auspicious sight. The one in the vision, which did not decay in death, would have been especially holy. A moth is sometimes seen near dusk gliding over the deep plains, but it is very rarely seen at any other time. The sacrifice of the moth allowed the trees to resist the grass, an ability they had lost while they fought each other. So, even though the result may have been neutral, the moth's act countered evil, and I judge it good."
Biel invites you to rest here another day while he decides how best to help you.
Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 29/29 Wednesday November 20th, 2019 6:15:39 AM OOC... Grindar would have answered right away, sorry I somehow missed that in your posts. He would have mentioned the monks and told him that they were sent in this direction by them.
"Thank you sir, I apologize if by not naming the moth as good, I my have upset you. I now see your point as to the act being good, even though the outcome was neutral, but as you said, we haven't had anything explained to us, and to be honest, it often seems to me that we are flailing about in the dark, when it comes to understanding this place, and it's history.
'Lil - (Carl) - 26/26 HP - AC 17/11/16 - CMD 15 Wednesday November 20th, 2019 1:09:40 PM
'Lil ponders on this. "Hold up. You sayin' you think the grass is evil? That sounds like a stretch, but we're already talkin' about evil trees, so I'll roll with it.
"Lets say it is. The grass bein' pushed back cause of the moth's influence can maybe be seen as a good act, but the grass only succeeded 'cause of the trees being evil in the first place.
"If the grass ain't evil, then we got two evil trees what got themselves killed, and the sarg moth helping them recover. Promise I ain't tryin' to be difficult here, Biel, and I really appreciate you helpin' us understand what's going on around here, but I just don't see no way based on what I know. I got two questions for ya. First, this a true story? Second, if it is, are them trees still evil?"
BigbyWolf ( Michael) 25/25 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 Wednesday November 20th, 2019 4:07:58 PM
"good and evil are sometimes only differentiated by a persons perception or agenda. Not taking a stance is sometimes the wisest thing to do till it becomes more obvious. If you are willing to help us, we will accept the help. We have people to help."
Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 14/14 AC/T/FF:11/11/10 Active Spells: None Wednesday November 20th, 2019 5:08:47 PM
Sol nods.
"Wise words Bigby. Sometimes what we see as good an evil is not... there are shades of grey. I would however hazard a guess that perhaps the Moth was trying to do good and fix the trees and purify them of their evil before they all were killed?"
Sol shrugs.
"I do believe we need more information before we can make an decisions."
Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 27/27; CMD: 15 Wednesday November 20th, 2019 9:22:12 PM
Caelwyn ponders these answers. "What do the trees represent? Or are they real, physical things?"
DM Steve -- A place away from the grasses Wednesday November 20th, 2019 10:46:09 PM
Grindar apologizes if his explanation upset Biel, and explains that the group is ignorant of Sargrass history.
'Lil ponders on Biel's explanations and starts questioning them. She wants to know if it was a true story.
Bigby says that good and evil depend on your perspective, and thanks Biel for the promised help.
Sol nods in agreement with Bigby, and offers an explanation for the moth's actions that differs from 'Lil's perspective. "I do believe we need more information before we can make an decisions."
Caelwyn ponders Biel's answers and asks what the trees represent if they are not real.
Biel sits for a bit before answering.
"I have no reason to believe the story is not based on actual events. But let us assume for a moment that it is an allegory. If it were an allegory, I would say the trees represent the Weaver, the sarg moth represents the Walker, and the bloodboil represents the Warper. And what would this mean? The Weaver is not evil, he wants what is no more. The Walker did not act to save the Weaver. And the Warper does not sustain the Weaver. No, I think it must be a recounting of something real. Are the trees still evil? What a question. . . You can't roll back time, not totally, but where do you draw the line between that which is evil and that which is not?" Biel sighs, and thinks a bit more.
"If you look at the communities of the Sargrass, you will find the druids and monks who fight the grass. You will find other peoples who adapt themselves to the grass in varying degrees. Among all these peoples, I know communities that will support the Weaver or the Walker, or try to accommodate both. The Warper is something new; I do not trust him, and neither will they. You are also something new. Is he therefore your natural ally? I do not think so."
"But my fellow druids are becoming museum pieces, like that skiff the monks showed you but will not put to use. If you cut yourself off totally from the world around you, that's a path to extinction. Some amount of change is inevitable. The people of the Sargrass are unique, different, and even bizarre. But we must work together in our differences. Those of us who can't. . . Well, I wish I were young again with that brashness and trust that can only come of youth and a lack of experience. But I ramble, and you should be preparing for your next journey. Hunt while the hunting is good, as it were."
Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 29/29 d20+8=27 ; Thursday November 21st, 2019 6:13:09 AM "Thank you again, good sir, your words have been most enlightening to me, and thank you in advance for your promised help. My hope is that someday soon the people of the plains both those who have always been here, and those who are yet to come, will find peace, and kindred hearts in this grand goal of making the Sargrass a better place to live!" Grindar says to Biel, then turning to his friends he says, "I think I will take our host advice and go do some hunting. Bigby will you join me? Of course if anyone else wishes to join, you are most welcome". (survival 27)
'Lil - (Carl) - 26/26 HP - AC 17/11/16 - CMD 15 Thursday November 21st, 2019 12:46:32 PM
'Lil doesn't have a lotta patience for moral relativism. She figures folks talkin' bout shades of gray and whatnot were just excuses big-brained folks made to avoid confrontation while sounding superior. There was evil in the world, and most of it was pretty black and white. At least, that's her view on all this.
The entire conversation she just had's got her agitated, and 'Lil don't handle agitation very well. She bites her tongue through Grindar's farewell and declines his invitation to hunt. She heads off to sit below Vanja and commune with Domi on all this. She's a small fry and don't expect much of a response if any, but she figures it'll make her feel better.
Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 14/14 AC/T/FF:11/11/10 Active Spells: None Thursday November 21st, 2019 6:36:22 PM
Sol nods to Biel.
"Thank you for the information. It is bringing a certain clarity to events... though I must admit it some ways it has made things more difficult to understand."
He smiles.
"But fear not, we will do what is best for the Sargrass and the people of it, where ever possible. At least, as far as we can understand it. But these questions I feel are bigger than you or I. Though maybe not Grindor..."
He smirks sideways, and also declines the offer of going out to hunt, under the expectation that he would just slow those capable down, he sits by himself, alternating between writing in his journal and mediating on the deep thoughts that they have been given to think.
BigbyWolf ( Michael) 25/25 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 d20+10=22 ; Thursday November 21st, 2019 8:12:32 PM
Bigby sensing the tension in the air nods to Grindar. "I will join you for the hunt." 22
Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 27/27; CMD: 15 Thursday November 21st, 2019 9:39:17 PM
Caelwyn thanks the druid also. "We appreciate all you have told us...I am sure it will prove useful as we go forward. Hopefully we will choose wisely in trying to balance all of this.
Caelwyn also decides not to hunt, leaving it to those more capable. He, like Lil, feels the need for spiritual guidance, and finds his own quiet spot to speak with Domi about all this.
DM Steve -- A place away from the grasses Friday November 22nd, 2019 12:17:51 AM Grindar thanks Biel, then turning to his friends he says, "I think I will take our host advice and go do some hunting. Bigby will you join me? Of course if anyone else wishes to join, you are most welcome."
Bigby accepts Grindar's invitation. While the two of them go on a very successful hunt, the rest of the party comes to grips with their conversation with Biel in their own ways.
'Lil sits beneath Vanja and communes with Domi, trying to relieve her agitation. She figures folks talkin' bout shades of gray and whatnot were just excuses big-brained folks made to avoid confrontation while sounding superior. There was evil in the world, and most of it was pretty black and white.
Sol sits by himself, alternating between writing in his journal and mediating on the deep thoughts that they have been given to think.
Caelwyn, like Lil, feels the need for spiritual guidance, and finds his own quiet spot to speak with Domi about all this.
After the party's brief remarks promising to use the information they have learned to help, Biel leaves the group, promising to return in the morning. It is a quiet afternoon for those who ponder or pray.
Sense motive DC:20, 'Lil at +5, hunters at -5 -- Highlight to display spoiler: {You have a hunch that Biel's interpretation of the story is based on his personal history more than on the story itself.}
.
Added late OoC -- I will be traveling Friday, so Friday's post will be early Saturday.
Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 29/29 Friday November 22nd, 2019 6:09:01 AM
When Grindar and Bigby return from their hunt he sees his friends acting rather introspective, and leaves them to their thoughts, as he goes about getting a fire going and cooking the bounty that he and Bigby gathered. He also wonders about what they have heard, and what is the right path they should take, but he finds that as a person of action, he often does his best thinking and pondering while on the move. that is why he chose to go hunting, well, that and the need for sustenance for himself and his friends.
After the fire is going and the meat is on the spit, Grindar turns to his friends and says, "We have been given much to ponder but I believe at the end of the day, what we have heard doesn't change our mission. We still desire to make the Plains a safer place to live, and to rebuild Rattledam, as well as other communities within the Sargrass. I believe that Biel and his fellow druids can be grand allies in this endeavor, and we have done well to gain Biel's promise of aid, but with or without their aid, we will still do our best to accomplish our mission, because that is who we are, we do our best to do what is right and just, and we aren't the kind to run away from the task at hand".
'Lil - (Carl) - 26/26 HP - AC 17/11/16 - CMD 15 d20+15=23 ; Friday November 22nd, 2019 11:16:03 AM
Sense motive: 23
'Lil don't hear nothing from Domi, which was fine. He's a god, she's a small fry. Domi's followin' ain't supposed to need their hands held.
She thinks on everything. She's pretty sure Biel's got an agenda. She listens to Grindar's thoughts.
"You ain't wrong, dude, but I'm pretty sure Biel's tryin'a guide us to a conclusion that matches his own. Whatever any of our thoughts on this weaver/walker/warper stuff, I hope we can all agree that gettin' wrapped up too deeply in it right now ain't in our best interests. We help the folks of New Rattledam as much as we can, keep'em safe and build the place up, and let the natives do native stuff.
"Maybe someday we'll be natives ourselves and have more of a stake in all this." She shrugs. "My thoughts, anyway. Food ready yet?"
Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 14/14 AC/T/FF:11/11/10 Active Spells: None d20+1=15 ; Friday November 22nd, 2019 5:56:59 PM
Sol nods at 'Lil's words.
"I agree. I am not certain of whether Biel has an agenda, but I trust your instincts Lil. We would be foolish no to think that Biel has some intentions for us. Whether that matches with our own or not is a different story. However, I think that Grindar has an excellent point. We should keep doing what we are doing and focus on our goal, then we can worry about the three powers."
He smiles, taking a small bit of food for himself.
"I am glad to have such wise friends."
BigbyWolf ( Michael) 25/25 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 Saturday November 23rd, 2019 12:36:24 AM
"we're here to get help. I'm not saying we have to woship anyone we don't want to. So long as this druid can get us the druid wood, then that's what we should be doing. But yeah what Sol sayid sounds good."
DM Steve -- A place away from the grasses Saturday November 23rd, 2019 1:39:38 AM
The next morning, after you are up and ready to face the day, Biel arrives accompanied by a halfling and a scruffy-looking bipedal squirrel. Biel introduces the halfling, "'Lil, Bigby, Caelwyn, Sol, and Grindar -- this is Swift. Swift, these are the other newcomers I mentioned. I believe you all have common goals. In any case, you are all looking for the druids."
Indicating the squirrel, he continues, "I have asked Reech to place Vanja in a corner of the Fey Realm. I believe the compass the monks gave you will then point to the druids grove instead of to Vanja. In a day or two you will have travelled far enough that your device will keep pointing to the grove. Vanja and I have talked, and feel it is important to maintaining the home we have established that Vanja stay here. The other druids do not accept my views on the grass, so it may be better for you to greet them without me. They are restorationists -- you may want to have Grindar be the one to explain your goals to them. Even then, you are likely to have difficulty convincing them to give you what you want."
Biel gives you time to get acquainted while he talks with Reech. Then the squirrel begins a simple enough looking ritual. After a while, the compass drifts away from Vanja, although you have seen nothing obvious happen.
"Good luck."
Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 14/14 AC/T/FF:11/11/10 Active Spells: None Sunday November 24th, 2019 4:38:27 AM
Sol nods.
"Thank you Biel for all your help, we have appreciated the safety of your space here. It has been nice not to worry too much. Hopefully we will meet again. Shall we get going then friends?"
He says, indicated the compass.
"Between that thing and Swift, we have another good direction to head in."
'Lil - (Carl) - 26/26 HP - AC 17/11/16 - CMD 15 Sunday November 24th, 2019 10:07:15 AM
Man, these druids were out there. Squirrels movin' trees around, trees that told stories...for a city girl, it was a lot.
She's still not sure she trusts any of this, but it looks like heading to these other druids is still they're best bet.
"So, is Swift comin' with, or is he just here with Reech to move this tree?"
Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 29/29 Sunday November 24th, 2019 12:05:58 PM
Grindar looks down on the halfling with a smile and says "Well Mr. Swift, if our goals are indeed similar, then allow me to introduce myself. My name is Grindar, son of Grindor, and my friends here and I are traveling to obtain druid wood, and if you are so inclined you are welcome to join us. In case you were wondering, I'm a Ranger, tell us a little about yourself." Swift sees a tall heavily muscled half-orc wearing a breastplate with Pantheon's holy symbol painted on the front. He has three weapons strapped to his back, a masterwork orc double axe, a mundane orc double axe, and a mundane quarterstaff.
Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 27/27; CMD: 15 Sunday November 24th, 2019 10:23:34 PM
Caelwyn raises an eyebrow at Biel's words. He has come to respect Grindar, but Caelwyn has quite a few years of diplomatic ability and experience under his belt - leaving the party's diplomacy to a fifteen year old, half-orc ranger doesn't seem like the best idea. Is that fair, he wonders, or am I just being conceited? Domi only knows...
But he says nothing about that, instead thanking Biel and thinking about how best to make their case to the druids. After a minute he speaks: "Hmm, I certainly agree that we may have trouble convincing the druids to help us...we must prepare our argument carefully."
BigbyWolf ( Michael) 25/25 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 Monday November 25th, 2019 12:59:47 AM
Bigby points to Grindar and a then follows with a thumbs up. "he's alright. He's a ranger."
DM Steve -- A place away from the grasses Monday November 25th, 2019 9:54:15 PM
Sol thanks Biel for his help. "Hopefully we will meet again. Shall we get going then friends?" he says, indicating the compass.
'Lil Is still not sure she trusts any of this.
Grindar looks down on the halfling with a smile and introduces himself.
Caelwyn raises an eyebrow at Biel's suggestion that Grindar represent the group to the druids. After a minute he speaks: "Hmm, I certainly agree that we may have trouble convincing the druids to help us...we must prepare our argument carefully."
Bigby points to Grindar and then follows with a thumbs up.
Swift stays silent for the moment.
The magic compass points generally south. It looks like the party will get more time slogging through the grass.
Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 29/29 Tuesday November 26th, 2019 5:28:01 AM
As they prepare to set out, following the magic druid wood finding compass, Grindar says to Swift and the rest of the party, "Perhaps we can get to our new friend while on the trail, after all, we'll have plenty of time while trudging through this grass",
'Lil - (Carl) - 26/26 HP - AC 17/11/16 - CMD 15 Tuesday November 26th, 2019 10:18:47 AM
'Lil chooses to keep silent, but closely watches how Swift moves through the grass. Maybe there's some trick to make it less sucky.
BigbyWolf ( Michael) 25/25 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 Tuesday November 26th, 2019 2:55:59 PM
Bigby hops off Wolfgang to move through the grass at his leisure. "Come on guys, it's as easy as a this." Sure he would use his woodland stride to his advantage and not let on that that was what he was doing. Just this once he got to be the bigger creature.
Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 14/14 AC/T/FF:11/11/10 Active Spells: None Tuesday November 26th, 2019 7:24:09 PM
Sol simply follows along, says nothing as he is apparently struggling to carry all his belongings.
Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 27/27; CMD: 15 Tuesday November 26th, 2019 9:28:42 PM
Caelwyn eyes the squirrel as they march along. "Tell me, Swift, where do you come from? If we are going to journey together, we might as well get to know one another a bit."
DM Steve -- Make travel in the grass less sucky d20=2 ; d6=4 ; Tuesday November 26th, 2019 9:54:35 PM
As they prepare to set out, following the magic druid wood finding compass, Grindar says to Swift and the rest of the party, "Perhaps we can get to our new friend while on the trail, after all, we'll have plenty of time while trudging through this grass."
'Lil chooses to keep silent, but closely watches how Swift moves through the grass. Maybe there's some trick to make it less sucky.
Bigby hops off Wolfgang to move through the grass at his leisure. "Come on guys, it's as easy as a this."
Sol simply follows along, saying nothing as he struggles to carry all his belongings.
Caelwyn eyes the halfling as they march along. "Tell me, Swift, where do you come from? If we are going to journey together, we might as well get to know one another a bit."
Swift has as much trouble as the rest of the group (but Bigby) in the grass. Whatever his vocation, he's not an experienced druid.
The party quickly settles back into their traveling routine, wading into the grass and being pushed back by it -- or at least feeling like it's pushing back. The compass points into the grass slightly away from the direction the mountains go, leaving the question of whether the group prefers the rough and stony terrain or the rough and grassy terrain. One being no faster than the other, they follow the direct route shown by the compass.
On the afternoon of the second day, they realize that they have strayed from their course. Although Bigby and Grindar have no trouble with direction here, it becomes apparent that the group has been veering east when Sol observes that they need to adjust their direction again after checking the compass. It's the "again" that makes you realize this is not the first correction you've needed to keep going where the compass is pointing.
Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 29/29 Wednesday November 27th, 2019 6:20:34 AM
Grindar isn't sure as to what to think of the halfling traveling with them as he has remained silent, in spite of various nudging to get him to share something about himself, but decides to leave it rest figuring Swift will share his story when the time is right.
Grindar is perplexed by the constant need to re-calculate their position, especially when there are two skilled individuals leading the way. At first he just thought that he and Bigby, had made a simple miscalculation, but after awhile it has become abundantly clear to him that someone, or someones are trying to keep them away. He turns to his friends and says, "Something isn't right here, something is trying to block our path, I believe someone or someones, don't want us moving forward".
'Lil - (Carl) - 26/26 HP - AC 17/11/16 - CMD 15 Wednesday November 27th, 2019 9:39:24 AM
"Well, that ain't very friendly. Think them druids Biel is sending us to is tryin'a avoid us? Maybe we get the right direction, then rely on stuff besides that compass to get there? Lot I don't know about orienteering, but that seems like it could work.
"Or maybe the continent's shiftin' again. That would be something."
BigbyWolf ( Michael) 25/25 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 d20+10=14 ; Wednesday November 27th, 2019 1:42:19 PM
survival 14. "I don't know I think it's this way. I thougt it was. Is it some sort of sorcery is messing with us Sol?"
Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 14/14 AC/T/FF:11/11/10 Active Spells: None Wednesday November 27th, 2019 6:02:27 PM
"Do either of you two..." Sol says, indicated Bigby and Grindar. "Know why we have to keep changing course? Is there an issue with our original heading?"
He sighs, taking a deep breath as he tries to conjure the strength to continue.
DM Steve -- Maybe the continent's shiftin' again Wednesday November 27th, 2019 10:52:54 PM
Grindar is perplexed by the need to re-calculate their position, especially when there are two skilled individuals leading the way. "Something isn't right here, something is trying to block our path, I believe someone or someones, don't want us moving forward."
'Lil asks, "Think them druids Biel is sending us to is tryin'a avoid us?"
Bigby asks Sol if this is some sort of sorcery; Sol asks Bigby and Grindar, "Know why we have to keep changing course? Is there an issue with our original heading?"
Survival DC:15 Highlight to display spoiler: {The direction the compass is pointing does not seem to be changing. The party is just veering away from it when they're not looking at the compass.}
Perception DC:20 Highlight to display spoiler: {You hear occassional rustling in the grass when you're following the compass, but not when you're not paying attention to the compass.}
If you made either of the other rolls, then Wisdom roll DC:15 Highlight to display spoiler: {If you close your eyes and relax, you feel a "tug" to move in an eastward direction. It can be easily resisted once the characters realize it is there.}
BigbyWolf ( Michael) 25/25 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 d20+10=26 ; d20+10=19 ; d20+3=14 ; Thursday November 28th, 2019 11:53:23 AM
"the direction of the compass isn't changing. seems like there is rustling in the grass whenever I look at the compass. I feel like I should know this. I mean somethings nagging at me but I just can't figure out why all of this is happening. What do you guys think?"
Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 29/29 d20+10=29 ; d20+10=19 ; d20+4=11 ; Thursday November 28th, 2019 12:55:31 PM
Survival 29 Perception 19 Wisdom 11
"I agree with Bigby, the compass doesn't change, but for some reason as soon as we take our eyes off the compass, we veer off course. unless someone can come up with another plan, I'll keep a constant eye on the compass as we move forward".
Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 14/14 AC/T/FF:11/11/10 Active Spells: None Thursday November 28th, 2019 7:17:43 PM
Sol clicks his fingers.
"Was there not a legend of some description saying that if you try to map the Sargrass it will inevitably change? Perhaps it is something to do with that? A compass is not quite a map but whatever is the reason behind the legend may be why we are veering off course, if the Sargrass itself is indeed a flowing location that moves and changes itself."
'Lil - (Carl) - 26/26 HP - AC 17/11/16 - CMD 15 d20+4=18 ; d20+10=12 ; d20+4=12 ; Thursday November 28th, 2019 8:00:44 PM
Passed survival check.
"Great Migrations are pretty spectacular events. They ain't subtle. I don't think that's what we're dealin' with. Let's keep goin', but take turns with the compass so we don't get complacent."
DM Steve -- Great migrations are pretty spectacular events d4+3=5 ; d8=2 ; d4=1 ; d12=12 ; d20+1=10 ; d3=1 ; d20+1=21 ; d20+1=12 ; d20+1=15 ; d20+1=7 ; d20+1=16 ; d20+1=21 ; d20+1=17 ; d20+1=13 ; d20+1=3 ; d20+1=3 ; d20+1=11 ; d3-1=2 ; d3-1=2 ; d3-1=0 ; d3-1=2 ; Thursday November 28th, 2019 10:22:44 PM Bigby and Grindar realize that the compass is continuing to point true (or at least consistently), and the party is straying from the course when not actively using the compass. Sol and 'Lil debate events that could cause this. The party settles on paying constant attention to the compass so as not to become complacent.
After some time taking turns using the compass in this manner, the party finds themselves in and among a group of tiny (3' long) creatures resembling plucked turkeys. The creatures appear out of the grasses and immediately attack.
Know nature DC:12 Highlight to display spoiler: {This is not normal behavior for creatures this size.}
Perception DC:20 Highlight to display spoiler: {These creatures were heading in the direction the party would go without constant attention to the compass.}
Bigby is bitten once for 2 points of damage and fortitude save vs DC: 12 or lose a point of Strength.
Sol is bitten once for 2 points of damage and fortitude save vs DC: 12 or lose a point of Strength.
Lil is bitten twice for 2 points of damage total and two fortitude saves vs DC: 12 or lose a point of Strength each.
Grindar, Caelwyn, and Swift are missed.
There are 12 plucked turkeys facing you.
Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 29/29 d20+6=7 ; d20+10=20 ; d20+7=16 ; d20+7=19 ; d8+4=9 ; d8+4=12 ; Friday November 29th, 2019 12:25:19 PM
Knowledge Nature 7 Perception 20
Grindar springs into action, when the Plucked Turkeys attack. He makes a full round attack at the nearest plucked turkey with Bwyell. If the first attack drops a turkey, he will use his off-hand on a second, taking a 5 ft step if needed.
Main Hand 16 for 9 slashing damage
Off-hand 19 for 12 slashing damage
BigbyWolf ( Michael) 23/25 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 d20+10=20 ; d20+10=15 ; d20+7=13 ; d20+6=25 ; d20+6=23 ; d2+3=5 ; d2+3=5 ; d20+4=15 ; d6+1=2 ; d20+4=13 ; Friday November 29th, 2019 12:35:24 PM
knowledge nature (20) Perception (15) fort dc save (13). "this seems abnormal for these creatures," but Bigby must fight to protect the tribe and so he attacks back at the jive turkeys. claw one 25, 5dmg, claw two 23, 5dmg. Bigby bites same if alive or a differnt turkey if the one bigby attacks is now dead. 15att, 2dmg. Trip attack: 13.
Swift (Gage Rohne) Ac:13/10/13 CMD:12 hp:12/12 d20+8=18 ; 3d6=8 ; Friday November 29th, 2019 12:54:33 PM
(lvl1 spells per pay 6/7) Swift attempts to cast shocking grap defesnively (need to beat dc 17) rolled 18 dmg 8
'Lil - (Carl) - 26/26 HP - AC 17/11/16 - CMD 15 d20+7=22 ; d20+4=14 ; d20+4=20 ; d20+6=19 ; d8+1=7 ; Friday November 29th, 2019 5:36:14 PM
Perception: DC22.
'Lil makes a mental note that these stupid turkeys was headin' wherever they keep wanting to go. She's gettin' nipped by the darn things. Her muscles spasm painfully, but she rubs'em out.
Fort save 14 and 20: both pass.
'Lil takes a a 5' step back and casts Spiritual Weapon, havin' it clobber the first turkey what bit her.
Hit AC 19 for 7 damage.
DM Steve -- Great migrations are pretty spectacular events d20+1=18 ; d20+1=6 ; d20+1=10 ; d20+1=13 ; d20+1=16 ; d20+1=2 ; d20+1=16 ; d20+9=22 ; d3-1=1 ; d3-1=1 ; Friday November 29th, 2019 10:58:17 PM
Grindar makes short work of the creatures attacking him. Bigby downs one and wounds another. Swift kills one of his. And 'Lil takes out one of hers. Sol and Caelwyn concentrate on defending themselves for a moment.
The surviving seven creatures return the attack, biting Bigby and Sol successfully, each for 1 point of damage and a fortitude save at DC:12 or lose 1 point of Strength.
You have determined these creatures are AC 15.
'Lil - (Carl) - 26/26 HP - AC 17/11/16 - CMD 15 d20+6=16 ; d20+5=16 ; d20+5=21 ; d20+5=23 ; d8+1=4 ; d8+3=7 ; d8+3=8 ; d8+3=5 ; Saturday November 30th, 2019 10:32:30 AM
'Lil directs her spiritual hammer over to another'a these turkeys and splats it. Then, she pulls Maya out and stabs any of'em what's nearby.
Spiritual Hammer: Hit AC 16 for 4 damage Longspear +1: Hit AC 16 for 7 damage Potential AoO if any of'em get near (longspear has reach): Hit AC 21 for 8 damage 2nd AoO if applicable (combat reflexes): Hit AC 23 for 5 damage
Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 14/14 AC/T/FF:11/11/10 Active Spells: None d20+1=3 ; d20+1=2 ; Saturday November 30th, 2019 5:22:57 PM
((OoC: Well bother, failed both the Fort rolls...))
Sol after being attacked twice in quick succession immediately slumps, dropping his pack to the ground, no longer able to carry it, he then Withdraws away from the creatures, moving as far as he can from all of them so he is still able to cast his spells (Magic Missile and Scorching Ray). He moves away then collapses on the floor for a moment to catch himself due to his now greatly reduced strength.
Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 27/27; CMD: 15 d20+5=22 ; d8+3=6 ; Sunday December 1st, 2019 1:20:17 PM
"Hey!" Caelwyn moves over to shield Sol from further attack. "Back off, miserable creatures." He immediately stabs at the nearest one with his trident, keen on preventing anyone else from having their strength drained.
Attack: 22, Damage: 6
BigbyWolf ( Michael) 23/25 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 d20+7=17 ; d20+6=25 ; d20+6=23 ; d2+3=4 ; d2+3=4 ; d20+4=19 ; d20+4=17 ; d6+1=6 ; Sunday December 1st, 2019 7:25:32 PM
fort save 17. "you turkeys going down." Bigby attacks twice again. claw one 25, 4 dmg. claw two 23, dmg 4. Wolfgang attempts to attack same creature or another creature in range if this one dies. bite 19, 6 dmg, trip 17.
Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 29/29 d20+7=16 ; d20+7=23 ; d8+4=10 ; d8+4=5 ; Monday December 2nd, 2019 5:42:05 AM
Grindar will take a 5 ft step towards the nearest (Hopefully 2) plucked turkeys, and stays in full round attack mode. If the main hand drops one, if another is within range, he will lash out at it.
main hand 16 for 10 slashing damage
off hand 23 for 5 slashing damage
Swift (Gage Rohne) Ac:13/10/13 CMD:12 hp:12/12 d20+8=25 ; d20=5 ; Monday December 2nd, 2019 7:39:05 PM
(lvl1 spells per pay 6/7) Swift, encouraged by his first sucess, attempts again to cast shocking grap defesnively against another on of the creatures and rolls a 25 to cast defensively but rolls a 5 against their touch ac. Leaving a large lightning flash through the air as he swings his hand
Mutation Bloom
DM Steve -- Great migrations are pretty spectacular events d6=1 ; d20+1=12 ; Monday December 2nd, 2019 7:54:14 PM
The combined efforts of the party kill an additional six of the creatures, and leave the final one seriously wounded. It tries to attack 'Lil, but falls short, finding movement more painful than usual. It looks as if one more blow will do it in.
Sol, meanwhile, still has the creatures' poison in him (make another fortitude save vs DC:12 or lose 1 Strength).
Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 27/27; CMD: 15 d20+5=8 ; d8+3=4 ; Monday December 2nd, 2019 8:13:01 PM
Caelwyn takes another stab of the creature, trying to finish it off. Unfortunately, it seems to avoid him.
Attack 8, damage 4
BigbyWolf ( Michael) 23/25 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 d20+6=23 ; d2+3=4 ; d20+4=19 ; d6+1=7 ; Tuesday December 3rd, 2019 12:00:40 AM
The blood of turkeys causing a frenzy with the wolf pack, drives Bigby and wolfgang to move over to the final turkey and bigby claws it. claw 23, 4 dmg. Wolfgang attempts a bite attack, 19, dmg 7.
Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 29/29 Tuesday December 3rd, 2019 6:00:52 AM
Seeing Bigby dealing with the last plucked turkey, Grindar stays his hand, and wipes the blood from his blades. he turns to Swift and says, "So your a spell chucker like our friend Sol here, that could come in handy going forward".
Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 14/14 AC/T/FF:11/11/10 Active Spells: None d20+1=3 ; Tuesday December 3rd, 2019 6:55:46 PM
Sol fails again sighing and looking like he's struggling even more than he was before.
"I am really not feeling very good friends..."
He says before collapsing onto the ground.
Swift (Gage Rohne) Ac:13/10/13 CMD:12 hp:12/12 Tuesday December 3rd, 2019 7:51:17 PM
"Does anyone here have any medical training?" says swift in a precise but slightly concerned way "I'm afraid healing is far from my strong suit and this main appears afflicted by more than normal damage"
Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 27/27; CMD: 15 Tuesday December 3rd, 2019 9:51:51 PM
Caelwyn steps over to Sol, concern in his eyes. "There's something in the bite of those animals, that much is clear...what is causing you pain, Sol? I'm no medical expert, but we can try to do something here..." He helps Sol sit up, and relieves him of whatever he may be carrying.
DM Steve -- Great migrations are pretty spectacular events Tuesday December 3rd, 2019 11:16:42 PM Caelwyn chases the last of the lizard-bird things towards Bigby, then tries to help Sol.
Bigby finishes off the creature.
Grindar cleans his weapons and greets Swift.
Sol is clearly suffering from the bites these things gave him.
Swift asks if anyone is able to help Sol.
The creatures have been swiftly -- even easily -- killed. However, Sol is still suffering the effects of their attacks (and once again must make a fortitude save vs DC:12 or lose 1 Strength).
Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 29/29 Wednesday December 4th, 2019 5:41:10 AM
Grindar rushes over to Sol with more than a little concern, he looks to 'Lil with hope that she may have the cure for the wizard. Seeing Sol being so weak that he can't even walk, Grindar will gently pick up his friend and carry him, asking that someone else grab Sol's gear saying, "We got to get going, maybe the druids can help!"
'Lil - (Carl) - 26/26 HP - AC 17/11/16 - CMD 15 d20+8=10 ; Wednesday December 4th, 2019 11:23:22 AM
With a flourish, 'Lil puts Maya back, then checks on Sol.
Heal 10: What are we dealing with here? Disease? Poison? Curse? Is it gonna keep on progressing?
BigbyWolf ( Michael) 23/25 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 Wednesday December 4th, 2019 12:49:02 PM
Bigby casts resistance on Sol to give him a +1 to his saving throw.
Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 14/14 AC/T/FF:11/11/10 Active Spells: None d20+1=16 ; Wednesday December 4th, 2019 4:45:06 PM
Sol seems to recover a little bit, and doesn't seem to be getting much worse, but lets out a soft groan, as he still seems weak(er) than normal.
His eyes are closed and there is a pained expression on his face, however he seems conscious.
Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 27/27; CMD: 15 Wednesday December 4th, 2019 7:45:50 PM
Lay on hands won't be helpful now, so Caelwyn volunteers to help carry Sol and his belongings. "Perhaps we can make a stretcher out of grasses, Sol's staff, and my trident, to carry him until his condition improves?"
DM Steve -- Great migrations are pretty spectacular events Wednesday December 4th, 2019 11:02:04 PM Grindar rushes over to Sol, then gently picks up his friend and carries him, asking that someone else grab Sol's gear, "We got to get going, maybe the druids can help!"
'Lil checks on Sol.
Bigby casts resistance on Sol.
Sol seems to recover a little bit, and doesn't seem to be getting much worse, but lets out a soft groan, as he still seems weak(er) than normal.
Caelwyn volunteers to help carry Sol and his belongings. "Perhaps we can make a stretcher out of grasses, Sol's staff, and my trident, to carry him until his condition improves?"
Although Sol is no longer getting worse, the poison of those creatures has left him severely weakened. He can no longer manage his small load of belongings without slowing down. Sol is heavy enough, however, to encumber even Grindar. A stretcher might allow the rest of the party to carry him without slowing; it could also mean two people had to delay while setting Sol down if there's another encounter. It is still mid-afternoon. You are in the grasses, which are already difficult to travel through.
How does the party proceed?
-----
OOC: I should have given the party 3500 XP for the discussions with Biel and negotiating his help. Please update your sheets with your share. It looks like the Sargrass XP tracker hasn't been updated since May. Anyone up to the task?
Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 29/29 Thursday December 5th, 2019 5:41:00 AM "That's a good idea Caelwyn, but instead of your trident, why not use my my quarterstaff" Grindar offers, "Also to speed things up, I have a heavy winter blanket in my pack, using that and my quarterstaff, as well as Sol's staff should make a fairly comfortable and easy to carry stretcher, leaving your trident available if something requires it's attention".
'Lil - (Carl) - 26/26 HP - AC 17/11/16 - CMD 15 Thursday December 5th, 2019 10:51:45 AM
"Stretcher's a good idea. Put something soft under'is butt and head so we can drop'im if we need to, though. Lots a baddies out here and he's giving off a wounded vibe, ya know?"
Was 'Lil able to tell anything w/ her heal check?
BigbyWolf ( Michael) 23/25 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 Thursday December 5th, 2019 11:22:52 AM
Bigby and Wolfgang will help pull Sol and or carry his equipment and gear. "perhaps a lesser restoration spell could help. 'Lil, you got any of those?"
Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 14/14 AC/T/FF:11/11/10 Active Spells: None Thursday December 5th, 2019 5:38:34 PM
Sol doesn't move much, but doesn't resist, apparently slipping in an out of consciousness, clearly feeling very uncomfortable, he makes the odd groan and grumble while being moved, but otherwise doesn't say anything.
Swift (Gage Rohne) Ac:13/10/13 CMD:12 hp:12/12 Thursday December 5th, 2019 9:22:52 PM
"I can attempt to help but im afraid i wont be able to carry more than a few pound smore than my own gear" says swift, " might be smart for me to travel a few hundred yards ahead and shoot up some lights if i see trouble? that way we can hide your friend and prepare for a fight."
Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 27/27; CMD: 15 Thursday December 5th, 2019 10:48:20 PM
Caelwyn agrees to these plans, accepting Grindar's offer of his quarterstaff to help make the stretcher. "Thank you, I would rather have this available if anything else comes up. I wonder how we can help Sol recover his strength...I shall ask Domi for guidance."
OOC: Do we need a survival check or something to create this stretcher?
DM Steve -- Great migrations are pretty spectacular events d20=16 ; Friday December 6th, 2019 12:07:17 AM Grindar offers for the stretcher his blanket and a pair of quarterstaffs -- his and Sol's.
'Lil checks Sol carefully. He has been poisoned, but should recover in time. "Stretcher's a good idea. Put something soft under'is butt and head so we can drop'im if we need to, though."
Bigby and Wolfgang help pull Sol or his gear. "Perhaps a lesser restoration spell could help. 'Lil, you got any of those?"
Sol doesn't move much, but doesn't resist, apparently slipping in an out of consciousness, clearly feeling very uncomfortable, he makes the odd groan and grumble while being moved, but otherwise doesn't say anything.
Swift offers to help. "Might be smart for me to travel a few hundred yards ahead and shoot up some lights if i see trouble? That way we can hide your friend and prepare for a fight."
Caelwyn agrees to these plans, accepting Grindar's offer of his quarterstaff to help make the stretcher. "Thank you, I would rather have this available if anything else comes up. I wonder how we can help Sol recover his strength...I shall ask Domi for guidance."
. It takes a liitle time, but the group is able to fashion a stretcher from the blanket and staves. The party starts carrying Sol. The grasses here are not the tallest you've seen, but still taller than anyone in the party.
----- OoC:
Which direction does the party go? How is the group arranged? Who carries Sol, or do you trade off?
The experience total I gave yesterday comes to 700 each, not 3500 each. Sorry for any confusion.
Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 29/29 d20+10=20 ; Friday December 6th, 2019 5:38:42 AM
Grindar places Sol's bedroll under Sol's head, then picks up one end of the stretcher, and if someone offers to relieve him, he refuses. He is resolved to carry Sol, whom, like the rest of the group, he sees as a brother or sister. He is glad when 'Lil informs everyone that even though he was poisoned, he should recover over time, though watching his friend suffer is hard on the young half-orc. he does his best to keep his eyes open for any unwelcome guests. (Perception 20)
BigbyWolf ( Michael) 23/25 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 d20+10=13 ; d20+10=20 ; Friday December 6th, 2019 12:15:23 PM
Bigby offers to help Grindar, but then sees in his eyes that he's not gonna let that happen. "ok, Grindars got this. We will scout ahead with swift. Ever tell you about the ants in this place Swift. They will eat you alive." 13 perception, 20 survival.
ooc: not sure what options we have to travel. I'm guessing back to the original direction we were heading, which was getting lost???
'Lil - (Carl) - 26/26 HP - AC 17/11/16 - CMD 15 Friday December 6th, 2019 12:22:17 PM
'Lil ain't got a restoration spell, and if Sol's poisoned it wouldn't be worth too much anyway. If Grindar was set about carryin'im, 'Lil figures there wasn't no talking him out of it. She takes the other end.
"Bigby, you wanna lead us? Grindar's our other natureboy, and he's busy."
Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 14/14 AC/T/FF:11/11/10 Active Spells: None Friday December 6th, 2019 6:17:13 PM
Sol, in one of his more lucid moments, where he realises what is happening mumbles out something that sounds like "Thanks.", but isn't clear enough to be sure.
Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 27/27; CMD: 15 d20+2=17 ; Friday December 6th, 2019 11:03:43 PM
Caelwyn offers to relieve anyone who gets tired carrying the stretcher, and sets himself as the rearguard. Anyone who wants to get to his companions will have to deal with him first.
Perception 17
DM Steve -- in the tall grass d4=1 ; d8=5 ; d20+3=12 ; d3=3 ; Friday December 6th, 2019 11:57:45 PM
While Bigby and Swift take the compass ahead a little bit to scout out the path -- but not far, so the rest of the party can see them -- Grindar and 'Lil carry Sol. Caelwyn follows closely. Bigby takes the party's original course toward the druids by following the compass.
After Bigby and Swift have passed, a large leaf -- almost unnoticed -- detaches from the tall grass and floats down toward the party. Grindar sees and tries to avoid it, whereupon it changes course towards Caelwyn, lashing his armor with its stem-like tail, but not reaching him with its attack. After the course change, it is clear that this "blade of grass" can fly.
Grindar and Caelwyn: sense motive vs DC 12 -- Highlight to display spoiler: {This thing was originally headed for Sol.}
Bigby and Swift will require 1 round to return to the group. Grindar and 'Lil are still carrying Sol. Sol is prone. For the next post, Caelwyn and the leaf should take two rounds of actions, while everyone else returns or otherwise makes ready and takes one. No one said they healed up after the last fight, so Sol and 'Lil should have a little damage.
BigbyWolf ( Michael) 23/25 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 Sunday December 8th, 2019 7:57:26 PM
"Swift, you see that? We gotta get back to the party. or mabye you can hit it from afar." Bigby rushes back to the party.
Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 29/29 d20+2=4 ; d20+7=13 ; d20+7=27 ; d8+4=11 ; d8+4=6 ; Monday December 9th, 2019 6:02:53 AM
Sense motive 4
Grindar doesn't notice anything particular about the flying leaf creature, other than it's attacking them, so he sets his end of the stretcher down as gently as he can under the situation, and draws Bwyell as he move into position to attack/defend. He then engages in a full round attack on the leaf.
Main Hand hits AC 13 for 11 damage
Off Hand hits AC 27 for 6 damage
'Lil - (Carl) - 26/26 HP - AC 17/11/16 - CMD 15 d20+4=13 ; d20+4=21 ; d8+3=11 ; d8+3=4 ; Monday December 9th, 2019 10:48:40 AM
"Even the blasted leaves attack us in this place? Sheesh." 'Lil puts down Sol with Grindar and pulls out Maya. She stands on guard for any more of the things.
Readied action: Attack anything that comes in range, or the existing leaf thing if it's the only one.
Hit AC 13 for 11 damage Combat reflexes, if needed: Hit AC 21 for 4 damage
Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 14/14 AC/T/FF:11/11/10 Active Spells: None Monday December 9th, 2019 6:11:01 PM
Sol manages to recover some level of consciousness, he simply groans, not apparently aware what is going on.
"Friends... what is happening?"
Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 27/27; CMD: 15 d20=5 ; d20+3=17 ; d8+3=9 ; Monday December 9th, 2019 11:06:45 PM
Caelwyn is utterly bemused as to what this is. He immediately attacks with his trident.
Attack 19, Damage 9
ooc: attack should have been +5
DM Steve -- in the tall grass d20+3=5 ; Monday December 9th, 2019 11:45:08 PM Caelwyn and the leaf clash while Grindar and 'Lil carefully put down Sol. Caelwyn does considerable damage to the leaf, which tries an ineffectual attack. Bigby arrives back in time to watch Grindar and 'Lil finish the thing off. Sol is aware something happened, but isn't sure what. Swift hasn't gotten back to the group before the fight is over.
It is still late afternoon. You are still in tall grasses, unsure whether yhere are more of these things around. How does the party proceed?
Swift (Gage Rohne) Ac:13/10/13 CMD:12 hp:12/12 Tuesday December 10th, 2019 2:05:49 AM
Swift runs back to the group out of breath and looking at the now former battleground, "apologies friends im afraid i was caught daydreaming, wont happen again i assure you, though it looks like you all do not struggle to defend yourselves."
Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 29/29 d20+4=22 ; d20+10=29 ; Tuesday December 10th, 2019 5:58:43 AM "No worries friend Swift, one can only assume that these grasses are not at all easy for your short legs, heck, with the exception of Bigby, when he isn't riding his wolf friend, we all are struggling", Grindar says in hopes of putting Swift at ease. He tries to identify the leaf creature (knowledge nature 22), and keeps his eyes pealed for more of them, (perception 29) as he picks up his end of the stretcher making ready to head out.
To Sol he says, "Fear not brother, an enemy attacked, and was vanquished post haste, try to relax my friend according to Lil, your condition is only temporary, so you should be back on your feet in no time".
BigbyWolf ( Michael) 23/25 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 Tuesday December 10th, 2019 10:41:01 AM
"You guys alright? we should move ahead and get out of here. I think we can't stay here." I'll scout ahead again.
'Lil - (Carl) - 26/26 HP - AC 17/11/16 - CMD 15 Tuesday December 10th, 2019 4:09:56 PM
'Lil keeps Maya in hand for a moment before putting her away. "I'll keep carryin' Sol. Cae, stay near with that trident handy, eh?"
Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 14/14 AC/T/FF:11/11/10 Active Spells: None Tuesday December 10th, 2019 5:54:08 PM
Sol nods before allowing the unconciousness to take him again. It seems that what little strength he had before has not entirely left him.
Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 27/27; CMD: 15 Tuesday December 10th, 2019 7:02:20 PM
Caelwyn posts up directly behind the stretcher bearers, ready with trident and shield to protect his companions should other foes reveal themselves. He has a nasty feeling that the leaves are coming from somewhere or something a bit more dangerous than a single one...
DM Steve -- in the tall grass d4=4 ; d6=5 ; d6=6 ; d8=1 ; d4+2=4 ; d20+4=18 ; Tuesday December 10th, 2019 10:54:26 PM Grindar examines the leaf creature, trying to identify it. Close examination finds it to be more plant-like than animal-like -- it has no mouth, for instance. However, it does have a stinger on the end of its tail, and likely a poisonous one.
The party resumes their previous formation, their senses heightened for fear that there are others of these creatures in the area. Once again, Bigby and Swift take the compass and lead the way. Grindar and 'Lil carry Sol. Caelwyn follows closely, remaining vigilant.
There are no other attacks in this particular region, however, and over time the party relaxes.
As it's getting on towards dusk, Caelwyn sees and points out to the rest of the group what appear through the grasses to be some sort of snakes as they fly into the grasses about 40' away. You can't seen them clearly because of the intervening grass, but there are several and they are tiny. Pausing, the party watches them settle down in the grass, hanging by their tails to rest. They don't seem to have seen you either. Yet.
Stealth rolls everyone, if you want to keep on your path and still escape their attention. (Sol does not need to roll.)
Perception DC:20 Highlight to display spoiler: {These creatures were heading in the direction the party would go without constant attention to the compass.}
Know Nature DC:20 or Survival DC:20 Highlight to display spoiler: {You have seen an awful lot of creatures in a short time this day. Something has to be attracting them.}
'Lil - (Carl) - 26/26 HP - AC 17/11/16 - CMD 15 d20+7=9 ; d20+2=4 ; d20+4=10 ; Wednesday December 11th, 2019 11:09:21 AM
'Lil's chainmail constantly clinks as she walks, ruining any chance of being sneaky. She remains completely oblivious to everything as she carries Sol and keeps an eye on his condition.
Stealth: 4 Perception: 9 Can't make the knowledge, Nature check Survival: 10
eesh
BigbyWolf ( Michael) 23/25 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 d20+5=20 ; d20+10=24 ; d20+10=18 ; Wednesday December 11th, 2019 11:47:26 AM
stealth 20, perception 24, survival 18. Bigby notices that the creatures are heading in similar direction of where the compass is leading. What's with this compass. Bigby and Wolfgang scout stealthily and hears 'Lil's armor clinking. Bigby shakes his head, we're going to get attacked again He silently chuckles.
Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 29/29 d20+4=9 ; d20+10=26 ; d20+10=11 ; Wednesday December 11th, 2019 5:42:00 PM
stealth 9 perception 26 survival 11
Grindar stumbles on a stone, creating a bit of noise. "Why is everything wanting to head that way?"
Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 14/14 AC/T/FF:11/11/10 Active Spells: None Wednesday December 11th, 2019 6:56:00 PM
Sol remains barely conscious, drifting in and out, making the odd sound but for the most part remaining both incoherent and unhelpful.
Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 27/27; CMD: 15 d20+2=18 ; d20-6=14 ; d20=6 ; Wednesday December 11th, 2019 9:42:08 PM
Caelwyn thinks for a moment he catches sight of something, but decides it was just his imagination (Perception 18, gaah)
Somehow he is able to move relatively quietly (Stealth 14) and winces at the sound of his companions moving around him. "Here we go again" he thinks.
Survival 6
DM Steve -- in the tall grass d20=19 ; Wednesday December 11th, 2019 10:54:35 PM Bigby and Grindar notice something about the flight of the creatures. "Why is everything wanting to head that way?", Grindar asks.
Bigby and Caelwyn quiet down upon seeing the creatures, but 'Lil tromps on obliviously and Grindar stumbles a bit. Sol tosses on his stretcher, but his murmurings are not loud. Swift is surprisingly quiet -- or maybe that's just how halflings are.
The creatures notice you, and drop from their perches. As they fly closer you notice they are about three feet long, a little thicker than you would expect snakes that size to be. They do not have wings, but seem to be levitating somehow. Their heads are rather horse-like, and there is something about the undersides of their bodies that you can't make out yet. They only approach, ending about 20 feet away and 15 feet off the ground,
One of them makes a loud, shrill neighing. Please make a will save, DC:12 to avoid becoming sickened (Sickened: The character takes a –2 penalty on all attack rolls, weapon damage rolls, saving throws, skill checks, and ability checks).
'Lil - (Carl) - 26/26 HP - AC 17/11/16 - CMD 15 d20+7=15 ; Thursday December 12th, 2019 10:56:38 AM
Will save: 15
'Lil holds on to her lunch. "Ok Sol, let's get you back up for this." She motions to Grindar to put him down, then places one hand on his head, and another on his chest. Strength flows back into Sol's muscles.
"You've got three minutes. Get off yer butt and come kill these things with us."
Move: Put down Sol Standard: Bull's strength on Sol - +4 STR for 3 minutes
Bigby's ears fold down at the noise. "I don't like these things. If we need cover I'll cast obscuring mist." Bigby casts guidance on swift as he is closeby him during scouting.
The creature gets a +1 competence bonus on a single attack roll, saving throw, or skill check. It must choose to use the bonus before making the roll to which it applies.
Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 14/14 AC/T/FF:11/11/10 Active Spells: None d20+6=23 ; Thursday December 12th, 2019 12:12:15 PM
Sol, thankfully is not affected by the sound, but has not recovered completed.
Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 29/29 d20+3=21 ; Thursday December 12th, 2019 5:57:36 PM
Will save 21
Grindar isn't effected by the noise, but he doesn't have a good feeling about whats about to go down. He sets his end of the stretcher down at the same time as Lil, then stands up and draws Bwyell.
Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 27/27; CMD: 15 d20+5=19 ; Thursday December 12th, 2019 7:59:01 PM
Will save 19.
Caelwyn staunchly ignores the creepy neighing of the snake things. He immediately moves forward to protect Sol as he continues to recover, with his shield up and his trident ready to strike. "Are we sure they want to fight? Perhaps if we continue they will simply leave us be...although somehow I doubt it..."
Swift (Gage Rohne) Ac:13/10/13 CMD:12 hp:12/12 d20=11 ; Thursday December 12th, 2019 9:12:53 PM
will save 14 Swift is wary but does commit to an attack, he stops but does not say anything or ready any spell
DM Steve -- in the tall grass Thursday December 12th, 2019 11:58:05 PM Grindar and 'Lil put Sol down. Grindar draws his weapon. 'Lil casts bull's strength on Sol. "Ok Sol, let's get you back up for this. You've got three minutes. Get off yer butt and come kill these things with us."
Bigby casts guidance to aid Swift.
Swift and Caelwyn eye the creatures vigilantly, but do not attack. Caelwyn takes a position to guard Sol. "Are we sure they want to fight? Perhaps if we continue they will simply leave us be...although somehow I doubt it..."
No one was affected by the sound of the first creature.
The creatures continue to levitate, flying around the party but staying out of weapons reach. Two more of the creatures make their nauseating neigh.
Please make two will saves, DC:12 each, to avoid becoming sickened (Sickened: The character takes a –2 penalty on all attack rolls, weapon damage rolls, saving throws, skill checks, and ability checks).
'Lil - (Carl) - 26/26 HP - AC 17/11/16 - CMD 15 d20+7=9 ; d20+7=18 ; d20+3=16 ; d20+3=10 ; d8+2=10 ; d20+3=4 ; Friday December 13th, 2019 12:12:57 PM
Will saves 9 & 18 - one fails.
The sound starts to bounce around in 'Lil's head, which somehow connects to her stomach.
"Ok, enough play time," she says before she takes a step towards the creatures. She keeps them at 10' and attacks.
Hit AC 16 for 10 damage. All AoOs miss.
BigbyWolf ( Michael) 23/25 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 d20+5=6 ; d20+5=18 ; d20+2=17 ; d20+2=4 ; Friday December 13th, 2019 1:18:45 PM
will saves 6, 18, 17, 4. Bigby and Wolfgang feel sickened.
Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 14/14 AC/T/FF:11/11/10 Active Spells: None d20+6=21 ; d20+6=18 ; d4+1=2 ; Friday December 13th, 2019 2:10:24 PM
((21 and 18 on the Will Saves, passing both))
Sol, invigorated by the spell, gets up, as he is now slightly stronger than he was before!
He then casts Magic Missile at the creature that Lil attacks. ((2 Force damage))
"Thank you Lil! I appreciate the help! I am glad to finally be more effective!"
Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 29/29 d20+3=9 ; d20+3=22 ; d20+5=7 ; Friday December 13th, 2019 8:14:14 PM
Even though he is starting to feel a little under the weather, (failed one of the saves) while holding Bwyell in his off hand, he draws and hurls a javelin towards the nearest creature.
7-2=5, most likely a miss
Swift (Gage Rohne) Ac:13/10/13 CMD:12 hp:12/12 d20=11 ; Saturday December 14th, 2019 12:51:24 AM
will save 14 Swift is wary but does commit to an attack, he stops but does not say anything or ready any spell
Swift (Gage Rohne) Ac:13/10/13 CMD:12 hp:12/12 d20=12 ; d20=18 ; 3d4=7 ; Saturday December 14th, 2019 12:58:44 AM
(sorry my computer odly decided t repost my last post0 saves 15 and 21 lvl 1 spells per day left 4/7 swift is less thn happy that his party attacked first but begrudingly attacks the neasrest creature with flaming hands 7 damage reflex save for half dc 17
DM Steve -- in the tall grass d4=4 ; d4=1 ; d20+4=6 ; d20+1=15 ; d20+1=5 ; d20+1=21 ; d20+1=6 ; d4-1=2 ; d4-1=3 ; Saturday December 14th, 2019 10:49:03 AM
Weilding a longspear, 'Lil finds the creatures within reach, and stabs one, killing it.
Sol damages another with his magic missile. "Thank you Lil! I appreciate the help! I am glad to finally be more effective!"
Swift kills another with his burning hands.
Grindar throws a javelin, but misses.
Caelwyn tries to keep any of the creatures from reaching Sol.
The two remaining creatures continue to whinny, but those of you who are not already sickened feel no more affects. In a coordinated attack, they both dive on Swift with a flurry of bites and blows that allows no attack of opportunity. Both bites connect, although their tail lashings are ineffective. Swift takes 5 points of damage.
===== Snake things: 1 - dead 2 - 2 dmg, AC:13 3 - uninjured, AC:13 4 - dead
Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 29/29 d20+5=21 ; d20+7=9 ; d20+7=24 ; d20+9=14 ; d8=4 ; d8=5 ; Saturday December 14th, 2019 11:22:41 AM
Seeing Swift being attacked directly, Grindar rushes to his aid, in spite of his sickness. if it only takes a 5ft step he will make a full round action, otherwise he will attempt a two-handed single attack.
full round attack main hand 21 for 8 damage
off hand 7 for 9 damage
two-handed attack 23 for 10 damage
(OOC... sorry about the extra d20 rolls, not sure what I was thinking)
CDM Jerry [OOC post] Saturday December 14th, 2019 11:55:10 AM
Everyone is invited to the retirement party for the
Iron Dragons!
To be held on the Giggling Ghost board! Starting Monday, December 16 and continuing all week.
Please come help celebrate their incredible journey from level 1 through level 20. [June 29, 2009 - December 13, 2019]
There will be stories! Speeches! [yes we'll make them do this ::grin::] Questions and Answers Free imaginary food!
Feel free to head there now, but the festivities start on Monday.
-----
Then starting Saturday, December 21st, our Woldian Slowdown begins along with our YULETIDE CELEBRATIONS in the Giggling Ghost.
ACDM Rob is in charge of the festivities in the Giggling Ghost during the Yuletide Slowdown. He will send out an email sometime before the 21st explaining how the Giggling Ghost activities will work.
As a reminder, all requirements to post daily in your Career game are banished until Monday, January 6, 2020. A reminder to begin posting will come out the weekend before to remind you. During the Yuletide Slowdown: --no game may be in combat --no game may advance its story line in any significant way --posting is allowed, but not required by players or DMs --all games should be in a relatively safe location where those who desire may roleplay for fun
Everyone who wants to roleplay are encouraged to hang out and post as much as you like in the Giggling Ghost and participate in the activities happening there.
Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 27/27; CMD: 15 d20+5=12 ; d20+5=7 ; d20+5=8 ; Sunday December 15th, 2019 8:59:33 PM
Caelwyn ignores the first noise, but the second creature's cry finally gets to him. He will still attempt to strike down one of the final creatures.
Attack 6,
Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 27/27; CMD: 15 d8+3=11 ; Sunday December 15th, 2019 9:00:26 PM
damage 11
'Lil - (Carl) - 26/26 HP - AC 17/11/16 - CMD 15 d20+3=16 ; d8+1=7 ; Monday December 16th, 2019 10:57:07 AM
Still feeling yucky, 'Lil tries to stab one'a these things.
Hit AC 16 for 7 damage.
BigbyWolf ( Michael) 23/25 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 d20+4=24 ; d2+1=2 ; d20+2=12 ; Monday December 16th, 2019 11:41:03 AM
Bigby will try to attack one the things. 24 (with sickened -2) 2 dmg (with -2). Wolfgang attempts a bite 12 (sickened)
Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 14/14 AC/T/FF:11/11/10 Active Spells: None d20+3=12 ; Monday December 16th, 2019 1:31:10 PM
Sol follows up with a Scorching Ray on number 3, however, as seems to be a running theme, he misses.
"I apparently spoke too soon."
Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 27/27; CMD: 15 Monday December 16th, 2019 9:51:45 PM
Caelwyn winces, sure the creature will dodge his blow.
DM Steve -- in the tall grass d4=2 ; d8=7 ; d20+8=23 ; d4=2 ; Monday December 16th, 2019 11:46:52 PM Grindar, 'Lil, and Bigby finish off the two remaining creatures handily. Caelwyn tries, but is too sickened. Sol comes close with his scorching ray. Swift is glad to no longer have the things attacking him.
It does not take long for people's nausea to pass once the battle is over. Within a few minutes thereafter, Sol's stength begins to wane again. Meanwhile the party has a chance to tend their wounds.
As the party gets ready to move again, roll Perception DC:23 Highlight to display spoiler: {You notice the giant ticks dropping from the grasses around you. If you're attacked, you won't be flat-footed. }
Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 14/14 AC/T/FF:11/11/10 Active Spells: None d20+1=8 ; Tuesday December 17th, 2019 6:30:39 AM
Sol begins to fade.
"That was a nice break from the venom... too soon it is gone I fear..."
'Lil - (Carl) - 26/26 HP - AC 17/11/16 - CMD 15 d20+7=10 ; 2d6=4 ; d6=1 ; d6=1 ; d6=1 ; d6=3 ; Tuesday December 17th, 2019 10:25:29 AM
'Lil remains as oblivious as ever: 10
She pats the stretcher as she watches her magic fade in Sol. "Ok, bud. Back on ya go. Grindar and I will get ya where we're going."
Lookin' around, she don't see no one hurt. If anyone is, she'll channel positive energy for'em and heal 6 damage.
*Look at those rolls up there. Good golly...
BigbyWolf ( Michael) 25/25 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 d20+10=15 ; Tuesday December 17th, 2019 11:38:32 AM
perception 15. "So we're good then? Keep on keeping on."
Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 29/29 d20+10=26 ; Tuesday December 17th, 2019 6:00:11 PM
Perception 26
Grindar is about to pick up his end of the stretcher, but notices something sketchy, and yells out, "Look alive guys, we have giant tick like things incoming!" as he brandishes Bwyell.
Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 27/27; CMD: 15 Tuesday December 17th, 2019 9:09:33 PM
"By Domi..." Caelwyn readies his shield and trident. "What isn't out to kill us out here..."
Swift (Gage Rohne) Ac:13/10/13 CMD:12 hp:12/12 d20=5 ; Tuesday December 17th, 2019 9:22:39 PM
perception 8 Swift fails to see it himself but hears grindar and puts up his hands ready to attack anything that comes, he says nothing but has a resolute look on his face. "Another day in the life." he says.
DM Steve -- in the tall grass d6=4 ; d6=3 ; d20+2=6 ; d20+2=11 ; Tuesday December 17th, 2019 11:21:31 PM
Before the party begins to get going again, 'Lil cures any minor hit point losses that occurred during the day's encounters. Sol fades as 'Lil's spell wears off. 'Lil pats the stretcher as she watches Sol. "Ok, bud. Back on ya go. Grindar and I will get ya where we're going."
Bigby says, "So we're good then? Keep on keeping on."
Grindar is about to pick up his end of the stretcher, but notices something sketchy, and yells out, "Look alive guys, we have giant tick like things incoming!"
Caelwyn and Swift react to Grindar's shout, still unsure where the giant tick like things are. "By Domi..." Caelwyn exclaims, "What isn't out to kill us out here..."
Had Grindar not noticed them, the tiny vermin might have had their feast without much effort. As it is, one attacks Grindar and one attacks Bigby, but neither succeed.
'Lil - (Carl) - 26/26 HP - AC 17/11/16 - CMD 15 d20+5=24 ; d20+5=12 ; d4=3 ; d8+3=5 ; d8+3=7 ; d20+5=24 ; d20+5=7 ; Wednesday December 18th, 2019 10:37:44 AM
'Lil sighs, then pats Sol on the head. "One sec, love. Some bugs need stabbin'."
She grabs Maya off her back and stands behind Grindar and Caelwyn. Her spear shoots out from between the two'a them and skewers one'a the flea things.
Hit AC 24 for 5 damage
AoO from having a reach weapon hits AC 12. Probably a miss. Combat reflexes, just in case: hit AC 24 for 7 damage & Hit AC 7 - whiff
BigbyWolf ( Michael) 25/25 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 d20+4=13 ; d2+1=3 ; d20+2=10 ; Wednesday December 18th, 2019 11:35:42 AM
Bigby attempst an attack (13) and maybe hits? dmg: 3. Wolfgang attempts a bite at it (10). "First we are attacked from the water, then the land, now the air? What's next?"
Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 29/29 d20+7=21 ; d20+7=27 ; d8+4=6 ; d8+4=10 ; Wednesday December 18th, 2019 5:54:24 PM
Grindar will attempt a full round action on the ticks, if one drops from his main hand attack, he will switch to a second tick for his off hand, otherwise he will send both attacks against just one.
main hand hits AC 21 for 6 slashing damage
off hand hits AC 27 for 10 slashing damage
Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 14/14 AC/T/FF:11/11/10 Active Spells: None Wednesday December 18th, 2019 6:22:08 PM
Sol nods, and allows himself to drift a little, not really aware of what is going on around him.
Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 27/27; CMD: 15 d20+5=15 ; d8+3=7 ; Wednesday December 18th, 2019 10:28:05 PM
Caelwyn strikes out with his trident, attempting to skewer a flea.
Attack 15, Damage 7
DM Steve -- in the tall grass d3=2 ; d20+2=22 ; d4=4 ; d20+8=20 ; Wednesday December 18th, 2019 11:36:21 PM Grindar obliterates one tick, and 'Lil wounds the other. Bigby, Wolfgang, and Caelwyn make good attempts, but miss. Sol is oblivious. Swift looks to make sure there are no more.
The wounded tick makes another attempt to bite Bigby, succeeding this time. Bigby is wounded (4 points damage), and the tick grabs him and starts draining blood (1 point constitution).
Only Bigby, 'Lil, and Caelwyn are in position to try melee attacks on the tick this round. ===== Tick -- AC:16, 5 dmg taken
BigbyWolf ( Michael) 21/25 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 d20+4=23 ; d20+4=7 ; d2+1=3 ; d20+2=11 ; Thursday December 19th, 2019 12:00:28 PM
Bigby gets knocked around and he tries to attack back with two claws. 23, att, 3 dmg, 7 att. Wolfgang takes a bite, 11. Bigby feels a little woozy after the attack and says, "is it me or is something trying to drain me? This sucks."
'Lil - (Carl) - 26/26 HP - AC 17/11/16 - CMD 15 d20+5=24 ; d8+3=9 ; Thursday December 19th, 2019 12:30:51 PM
'Lil delivers another pin-point stab from behind Caewyln, hitting AC 24 for 9 damage. Hopefully she don't stab through & hit Bigby.
Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 29/29 Thursday December 19th, 2019 5:24:18 PM
Feeling useless as he is forced to watch his friends attack the final tick, he prays they are able to dispatch it before anyone else gets hurt.
Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 27/27; CMD: 15 d20+5=10 ; Thursday December 19th, 2019 8:08:52 PM
"Get off!" Caelwyn tries to skewer the tick and get it off of Bigby. Sadly, he misses.
Attack 12
DM Steve -- in the tall grass Friday December 20th, 2019 12:32:16 AM Bigby feels a little woozy after the attack and says, "Is it me or is something trying to drain me? This sucks."
Bigby injures the tick further, and 'Lil finishes it off. {b]Caelwyn[/b] tries to skewer the tick as well, but misses.
Grindar feels useless because he can only watch. But Swift is still watching for any others in the grass, and Sol is pretty out of it on the stretcher.
As the party catches their breath again, a large black raven flies overhead. After the party has seen it, it lands in the grasses nearby. Momentarily, Biel steps through the growth surrounding the party and says hello. He looks you over, noting minor wounds, then asks, "What happened to Sol?"
As Biel takes in the party's explanation of events, the squirrel you saw him with when you left him walks through the grasses on its hind legs and starts chittering at the druid. "Very well, Reech, go ahead," Biel says. "Pardon me. Reech says he wants a safe place to stay tonight. Can anyone give him some rope?"
'Lil - (Carl) - 26/26 HP - AC 17/11/16 - CMD 15 Friday December 20th, 2019 11:51:08 AM
'Lil wipes off Maya on the grass before puttin'er away.
She ain't got any rope, but she's got plenty'a questions. What's Biel doing here? He been following them? Why ain't he helping with all these varmints?
What's a squirrel going to do with rope? She hopes someone's got some; she's pretty curious about it.
"Sol got himself poisoned. Got the strength leeched right outta him. What're you doing here? I thought these other druids you sent us to didn't get along with you."
She pauses, "not that we ain't happy to see you or nothin'. Maybe this place will try a little less harder to kill us with you around."
Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 29/29 Friday December 20th, 2019 1:05:28 PM
“I got some rope” Grindar offers, though he is as confused as everyone else as he hands it to the squirrel.
BigbyWolf ( Michael) 21/25 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 Friday December 20th, 2019 1:35:42 PM
Bigby pulls the creature off of him. and then slurs, "yeah, what are doing here." He has difficulty thinking straight. "maybe I should sit down for a second" and then he laughs, "I'm already sitting down on wolfgang."
Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 14/14 AC/T/FF:11/11/10 Active Spells: None Friday December 20th, 2019 5:13:59 PM
Sol simply makes a few grunts in response, as if to punctuate his poisoned self.
DM Steve -- in the tall grass Saturday December 21st, 2019 12:05:09 AM 'Lil says Sol got himself poisoned, and starts peppering Biel with questions. Sol makes a few grunts in response, as if to punctuate his poisoned self.
Bigby pulls the remnants ofvthe tick off of him. and then slurs, "Yeah, what are doing here?" He has difficulty thinking straight. "Maybe I should sit down for a second. (laughs) I'm already sitting down on wolfgang."
Reech takes the rope Grindar gave him and casts a spell. At least, the chittering and gestures seem the Grindar to be like what wizards do, and at the end of it Reech throws one end of the rope jnto the sky, where it hangs.
"I will answer your questions, but first let's get to safety," Biel says. As everyone watches, Reech climbs to the top of the rope and disappears. At Biel's urging, the party does so, too, though they have trouble getting Sol up without dropping him.
The party finds themselves in a small, colorless -- not clear -- space. It is just large enough to accomodate the six party members, Wolfgang, and Reech comfortably. From within, the party can see what's going on within a few feet of the rope outside. "I can't join you," says Biel, "The magic only accomodates eight. But I will find you in the morning, and I will memorize a spell that will help Sol. Bigby should be okay with rest. To answer 'Lil's questions, I started looking for you when I felt the tug of the mutation bloom, because I knew you'd be in trouble without help. I'm glad I found you before night fell. Every creature within a hundred miles feels that tug, and the mutated ones go mad. Right now, Sol and Bigby must have rest, and it won't hurt any of you."
With that, Biel distorts and fades away while the grass is tossed around by a sudden wind. Reech pulls the rope in with the party, and they can no longer hear the Sargrass.
'Lil - (Carl) - 26/26 HP - AC 17/11/16 - CMD 15 Saturday December 21st, 2019 11:51:51 AM
'Lil wonders what the heck a mutation bloom is. "Whatever it is, it probably ain't good," she says without warning.
She looks at her surroundings. They seemed good enough and was probably a lot safer than the grasses below. "Right, you two rest. Probably no fire tonight, what with no place for the smoke to go but down. Dry rations it is." She cracks open her pack and takes a cloth-wrapped bundle. She offers Reech a bit of hard bread and cheese. "Sorry dude. No nuts in here."
She lies back and relaxes, settling in for a long snooze...
***
See you folks after the slowdown. I don't tend to stick around during it. Have a merry Christmas & whatnot!
DM Steve -- in the tall grass Tuesday December 24th, 2019 10:44:30 AM
Reech accepts the bread and cheese from 'Lil, and settles down to watch the slow migration of creatures below the "window" where his spell shows the grass.
DM Steve -- in the tall grass Friday December 27th, 2019 6:51:16 PM
Perception DC:15 Highlight to display spoiler: {From above, it's easier to spot that there are occasional creatures moving through the grass, all headed the same direction.}
The light coming from the grasses fades quickly. The party can still dimly see each other and the window to the Sargrass is a dark rectangle in the floor of this place.
DM Steve -- in the tall grass d3=3 ; Saturday January 4th, 2020 3:27:44 PM
The party stirs from their slumber as the light from the "window" grows. They all had a good night's rest. Sol has regained strength with his rest (1 point Strength restored, still 2 below normal). Bigby has regained the vigor that the tick drained away (1 point Constitution restored, back to normal). Caelwyn, Lil, Grindar, and Swift feel great.
Reech becomes very excited after looking down through the window. When everyone else looks down, they find there is a large, shaggy creature below them. If it stood, it would almost at their height.
Perception DC: 15 Highlight to display spoiler: {There appears to be a wounded man under the creature.}
Know Nature DC: 10 Highlight to display spoiler: {The creature looks like a bear.} DC: 15 Highlight to display spoiler: {But as it moves, you realize it also has bird-like features.}
Know Arcana DC: 23 or Spellcraft DC: 13 Highlight to display spoiler: {You have been in this rope trick for several hours. Unless Reech is exceptionally powerful -- well, you're already surprised it has lasted this long.}
Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 29/29 d20+10=21 ; d20+10=21 ; d20+6=17 ; d20+6=16 ; d8+6=12 ; d20-2=4 ; Monday January 6th, 2020 6:20:03 AM "What would cause such a strange migration, and what is this Mutation Bloom Biel mentioned?" (Perception 21) Grindar muses to himself before falling into a restful sleep.
Grindar awakens with Reech's excited chatter. "There's someone in trouble!", Grindar says as he notices the man under the bird-bear creature knowledge (perception 21, nature 17) He jumps to his feet while drawing Bwyell, and then jumps through the "window" attacking the beast with a two-handed overhand chop.
(Should be +9 not +6) Hits AC 19 for 12 damage
(Acrobatics check to land on his feet, 4) In his exuberance to try to save the man, Grindar fails to land on his feet and falls prone while landing.
'Lil - (Carl) - 26/26 HP - AC 17/11/16 - CMD 15 d20+7=9 ; d20=14 ; Monday January 6th, 2020 11:22:58 AM
'Lil looks down and sees a bear, but that's it. She ain't sure what's gotten into Grindar, but she ain't gonna let him go get'imself killed. She jumps down with Maya drawn.
She don't attack though. This thing's just sittin' here, right?
BigbyWolf ( Michael) 21/25 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 d20+10=23 ; d20+10=27 ; d20+2=19 ; Monday January 6th, 2020 1:12:33 PM
perception 23, knowledge nature 27. Bigby nods at Grindars assessment. "there's some thing...and a it's got wings." Bigby and Wolfgang follow after Grindar. Bigby attempts to do a wild empathy with the beast. "please move away from the wounded man. We don't want to harm you but want to help the man."
Sol looks in wonder at the creature, and instead of "Jumping out" makes his way calmly down, he doesn't do anything, or attack but does cast Mage Armour on himself just in case this turns sour fast.
"It is a wonder it is taking to long for me to heal, and while still weak, I am at least a little closer to being full strength."
His movements still seem pained, and he's wearing precious little clothing or equipment, just the very bare essentials.
"Now, what is this creature doing?"
Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 27/27; CMD: 15 d20+2=15 ; Monday January 6th, 2020 8:55:03 PM
Caelwyn takes in the situation at once. "There's an injured man under that thing!" He immediately seizes his trident and shield, and hurries around to try to protect Grindar, should the animal turn on him.
DM Steve -- in the tall grass d20+8=24 ; d20+8=21 ; d20+8=10 ; d20+14=15 ; d6+4=9 ; d6+4=8 ; d6=2 ; Monday January 6th, 2020 11:14:54 PM
Grindar falls asleep wondering what a mutation bloom is, but has no sudden insight. In the morning, taking in the situation below, Grindar shouts, "There's someone in trouble!", and leaps onto the bear-bird creature.
'Lil and Wolfgang also jump down to the ground, but not directly into combat. Bigby and Caelwyn follow more cautiously, taking the rope down. "There's an injured man under that thing!"
Sol casts mage armor and climbs down. "It is a wonder it is taking to long for me to heal, and while still weak, I am at least a little closer to being full strength." Swift remains with Reech in the rope trick.
Grindar gets a solid hit on the unsuspecting creature, before falling at its feet (2 points non-lethal damage). Bigby tries to reason with it, "Please move away from the wounded man. We don't want to harm you but want to help the man," but there's no chance of that now. Caelwyn tries to protect Grindar, but cannot keep the beast from attacking.
Grindar's attack enrages the beast, which fights back with it's massive paws and a sharp beak. While the beak misses, both paws hit Grindar and the creature tries to hug Grindar to it. Grindar is hurt by the paws (17 damage total), but the creature's fur is slick with blood and Grindar slips free.
Grindar is prone.
===== Ooc: Since they are not taking any other actions this round, Caelwyn and 'Lil have the opportunity to recover from jumping down if necessary. However, acrobatics checks vs DC: 15 will prevent them from taking 2 points non-lethal damage. ===== Bear-bird -- AC: 17, damage: 12
'Lil - (Carl) - 26/26 HP - AC 17/11/16 - CMD 15 d20+2=13 ; d20+5=10 ; Tuesday January 7th, 2020 2:07:16 PM
'Lil hopes this thing isn't that dude's pet. She doesn't stick the landing and gives her ankle a little twist. She winces, but pushes through it.
She takes a moment to look at the situation she finds herself in. Is that dude what was under this bear-thing wounded? If so, she attacks...poorly.
Hit AC 10 - miss.
Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 14/14 AC/T/FF:11/11/10 Active Spells: None d20+2=15 ; 4d6=13 ; Tuesday January 7th, 2020 4:03:21 PM
Sol, seeing that the creature is now enraged, but he has no spells to pacify it, so he instead casts Scorching Ray.
"Grindar, perhaps next time we could let Bigby have a chat first?" he smirks as he speaks.
15 to hit, assuming a hit, 13 Fire damage.
BigbyWolf ( Michael) 21/25 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 d20+6=22 ; d20+6=12 ; d2+3=5 ; d20+4=6 ; Tuesday January 7th, 2020 5:44:03 PM
Bigby sees that animal diplomacy is out. Goes for the attack. attack 22, 5 dmg, second attack 12. Wolfgang attempts to bite as well. att: 6
Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 10/29 d20+9=22 ; d8+6=12 ; Tuesday January 7th, 2020 6:17:33 PM
Grindar triggers an AOE by standing up, and then lashes out with another two-handed swing hitting AC 22 for another 12 damage, as he says, "Diplomacy takes to long, someone was in danger, and action was needed!"
OOC...Wild empathy allows you to make diplomacy checks with animals and magical beasts with animal intelligence, to adjust their attitude towards you. It takes 1 minute to adjust an attitude, otherwise Grindar may have tried the same thing, as it is a Ranger ability as well as a Druid ability.
Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 27/27; CMD: 15 d6=6 ; d20+2=20 ; Tuesday January 7th, 2020 9:22:51 PM
Caelywn curses under his breath. "I wish we had talked this through before rushing in..." He hurries up and uses Lay on Hands on Grindar. He also looks to see what condition the wounded man is in, and if he is still in imminent danger.
Grindar receives 6 hitpoints
Perception 20 (not natural 20)
DM Steve -- in the tall grass d20+8=23 ; d20+8=10 ; d20+8=16 ; d20+8=16 ; d20+14=28 ; d6+4=6 ; Tuesday January 7th, 2020 10:32:01 PM Lil hopes this thing isn't that dude's pet. She doesn't stick the landing and gives her ankle a little twist. She winces, but pushes through it. She takes a moment to look at the situation she finds herself in. Then she attacks, but misses.
Sol, seeing that the creature is now enraged, casts Scorching Ray. It strikes the creature, and the smell of burnt fur permeates the area. "Grindar, perhaps next time we could let Bigby have a chat first?" he smirks.
Bigby sees that animal diplomacy is out, and goes for the attack. He damages the creature. Wolfgang attempts to bite but misses.
Grindarstands up, allowing the creature to attack, and then lashes out with another two-handed swing. His weapon bites into the beast again, less impressively than last time. "Diplomacy takes to long, someone was in danger, and action was needed!"
Caelwyn curses under his breath. "I wish we had talked this through before rushing in..." He hurries up and uses Lay on Hands on Grindar. He also looks to see what condition the wounded man is in, and if he is still in imminent danger. Unfortunately, the man appears to already be dead.
The creature attacks Grindar again, even angrier than before if that is possible. Perhaps this is to his advantage. It hits once and attempts to hug him with one of its paws, but is unable to do so without the other. Its remaining attacks glance off his armor. (Grindar takes 6 damage, and is healed 6 by Caelwyn)
The creature appears to be severely wounded.
===== Bear-bird -- AC: 17 (touch 12), damage: 42
Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 10/29 d20+7=10 ; d20+7=11 ; Wednesday January 8th, 2020 1:24:19 PM
Seeing the creature on the ropes, Grindar attempts to finish the thing off, to end it’s suffering, and to avoid anymore damage to himself or his friends. He attempts a full round attack. However in his exuberance, he swings wild with both his primary and off hand attacks.
'Lil - (Carl) - 26/26 HP - AC 17/11/16 - CMD 15 d20+5=8 ; Wednesday January 8th, 2020 2:49:14 PM
'Lil continues stabbing the air around the bird-bear-thing.
Hit AC 8 - Miss
BigbyWolf ( Michael) 21/25 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 d20+6=26 ; d20+6=11 ; d20+6=7 ; d2+3=5 ; d20+4=18 ; d6+1=2 ; Wednesday January 8th, 2020 4:29:15 PM
"caw caw," Bigby belows as he attacks, hoping to throw the bird bear off his game. claw1 26, crit not confirmed 11, dmg 5, claw 2: 7. Wolfgang attempts a bite attack as well. bite: 18, dmg: 2
Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 14/14 AC/T/FF:11/11/10 Active Spells: None d20+2=6 ; Wednesday January 8th, 2020 5:16:26 PM
Sol shakes his head.
“I maybe sick, but that is no excuse! Oh well, what is done is done.”
Sol casts another Scorching Ray, expending his final level 3 spell slot, however this time his aim goes wide.
“I am glad to see that this illness had not impacted my ability to miss all things I aim at.”
Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 27/27; CMD: 15 d20+5=22 ; d8+3=10 ; Wednesday January 8th, 2020 10:40:56 PM
Caelwyn is ready to end this fight. He moves past Grindar and stabs at the creature, trying to draw its attention.
Attack 22, Damage 10
DM Steve -- in the tall grass Wednesday January 8th, 2020 11:33:27 PM
Seeing the creature on the ropes, Grindar attempts to finish the thing off, to end it’s suffering, and to avoid anymore damage to himself or his friends. Unsuccessfully.
'Lil continues stabbing the air around the bird-bear-thing.
"caw caw," Bigby bellows as he claws the bird bear. It is still moving. Wolfgang bites as well. The creatures gets a glazed look and slows considerably, but is still moving.
Sol casts another Scorching Ray, however this time his aim goes wide. “I am glad to see that this illness had not impacted my ability to miss all things I aim at.”
Caelwyn is ready to end this fight. He moves past Grindar and stabs the creature, which collapses.
After a moment, the end of a rope drops down from above. Reech and Swift descend, after which the rest of the rope follows.
'Lil - (Carl) - 26/26 HP - AC 17/11/16 - CMD 15 d20+8=17 ; d6=2 ; d6=3 ; Thursday January 9th, 2020 10:16:37 AM
'Lil goes to check on the dude who was under the bear-bird-thing.
Heal 17
Is he alive? Cool. 'Lil will heal him up, and Grindar too, with some positive energy. Actually, she'll do that regardless for Grindar. 5 HP healed.
BigbyWolf ( Michael) 21/25 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 d20+10=26 ; d20+2=13 ; Thursday January 9th, 2020 2:01:35 PM
knowledge nature 26 to see what the creature is. Bigby will check to see if the human person is ok. heal skill 13.
Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 15/29 Thursday January 9th, 2020 5:21:07 PM
Believing the man dead, Grindar kicks at a small rock, in frustration, sending it flying. He mumbles to himself, things like, "If I would have noticed sooner", and "I failed again". Gindar remembers to thank his friends for the healing, but it is pretty obvious that he is feeling pretty low, as he says, "This place kills whom ever it touches, why are we here!"
Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 14/14 AC/T/FF:11/11/10 Active Spells: None Thursday January 9th, 2020 8:24:33 PM
Sol goes and puts a hand on Grindar’s shoulder.
“This is a dangerous place, but we are here because we can yet tame it, or learn to live in symbiosis with it, and we are the only ones willing to try and help people like him.” He indicates the body.
“While we may not have managed to protect him initially, but through our efforts we mayhaps be able to prevent others from succumbing to the same fate.”
DM Steve -- in the tall grass Thursday January 9th, 2020 11:52:42 PM 'Lil goes to check on the dude who was under the bear-bird-thing, and helps Grindar with positive energy. Unfortunately, there's nothing to do for the dude.
Bigby examines the creature and also checks on the man. He decides that this must be an infamous owlbear.
Grindar kicks at a small rock, in frustration, sending it flying. He mumbles to himself, things like, "If I would have noticed sooner", and "I failed again". Gindar remembers to thank his friends for the healing, but it is pretty obvious that he is feeling pretty low, as he says, "This place kills whom ever it touches, why are we here!"
Sol goes and puts a hand on Grindar’s shoulder. “This is a dangerous place, but we are here because we can yet tame it, or learn to live in symbiosis with it, and we are the only ones willing to try and help people like him.” He indicates the body. “While we may not have managed to protect him initially, but through our efforts we mayhaps be able to prevent others from succumbing to the same fate.”
Caelwyn and Swift watch the surrounding grasses. Reech becomes excited, and soon you hear something approaching -- which turns out to be Biel.
He takes in the scene quickly. "Sorry I wasn't here earlier. And Sol, I didn't forget the spell you need. But something momentous has happened, and the news just reached me early this morning. It seems some of the most powerful heroes of the Wold, the Iron Dragons, broke into the prison and home of Marteaus. Kevintar, brother of Marteaus, former Twin Punisher of Gargul, has been released from his Bone Tower prison of the last few centuries. The Gods of Testing have all walked away in different directions. The Gods of Wold have held an enclave to discuss the fallout of recent events. Serenbeth and Wardd have been asked to rejoin the Gods of Wold. I cannot help but wonder if the mutation bloom fits into such tidings. But we will need to hurry now."
Biel casts a spell on Sol, who feels his strength return.
"The skirmishes you have had are only the beginning." As Biel says this, the party realizes that there have been frequent sounds of movement in the distance since they left their secure sleeping spot.
'Lil - (Carl) - 26/26 HP - AC 17/11/16 - CMD 15 Friday January 10th, 2020 11:43:55 AM
'Lil was from the Iron Dragons' home town. She knew them pretty well...by reputation, of course. She never met'em in person. She did know that two'a them were followers of Wardd and Serenbeth. She wonders how it'll affect them.
Not long, though. She's got stuff to do. She starts by punching Grindar in the arm. "Come on, dude. Anyone who comes to this place knows it's dangerous. Sucks that dude is dead, but it is what it is. All we can do is keep tryin'a make a sanctuary here for good folks." She keeps Maya at the ready as she hears the movement. "Sounds like we got more work to do, eh? Let's keep moving."
BigbyWolf ( Michael) 21/25 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 Friday January 10th, 2020 12:35:11 PM
"well what do humans do? Bury the dead? Should we bury the guy? As for this owl bear, I wonder how it tastes." If the party has time and buries the dead, Bigby will strip some meat from the owlbear and try to preserve it or cook it. And then offer to others.
'Lil - (Carl) - 26/26 HP - AC 17/11/16 - CMD 15 Friday January 10th, 2020 2:20:05 PM
'Lil immediately feels guilty. How could she forget to honor this dead guy? She makes a mental note to not be in such a rush and kneels down.
"Domi, don't know this guy's story. Maybe he deserves your admiration, maybe he don't. All I know now is that he's done with this life. Hopefully he spent it doing deeds that warrant some good attention in the next."
She stands. "We got time to bury him? We should if we can, but ain't no sense getting the rest of us killed." She looks to Biel. Surely the druid had some way to put a body under the dirt.
Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 14/14 AC/T/FF:11/11/10 Active Spells: None Friday January 10th, 2020 8:28:51 PM
Sol nods.
"I feel like we should bury him, assuming we have time, but with several of us working together it should not take too long."
He will do everything he can to help with his renewed (if still mediocre) strength.
Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 15/29 Saturday January 11th, 2020 11:24:05 AM
Grindar perks up a little with his friends words of encouragement, and before anyone is able to answer the question as to whether they should bury the body, he gets on his hands and knees, draws one of his daggers, and starts digging a hole. “Remind me to buy a shovel, if this is going to be a normal part of our lives, mayhaps we should be better prepared”. He offers his other dagger to another who would wish to assist.
DM Steve -- in the tall grass Saturday January 11th, 2020 1:20:10 PM 'Lil was from the Iron Dragons' home town, and ponders the news. Not long, though. She's got stuff to do. 'Lil punches Grindar in the arm. "Come on, dude. Anyone who comes to this place knows it's dangerous. Sucks that dude is dead, but it is what it is. All we can do is keep tryin'a make a sanctuary here for good folks." She keeps Maya at the ready as she hears the movement. "Sounds like we got more work to do, eh? Let's keep moving."
Bigby asks, "Well what do humans do? Bury the dead? Should we bury the guy? As for this owl bear, I wonder how it tastes."
Sol nods. "I feel like we should bury him, assuming we have time, but with several of us working together it should not take too long."
Grindar perks up a little with his friends words of encouragement, and before anyone is able to answer the question as to whether they should bury the body, he gets on his hands and knees, draws one of his daggers, and starts digging a hole. “Remind me to buy a shovel, if this is going to be a normal part of our lives, mayhaps we should be better prepared”. He offers his other dagger to another who would wish to assist.
Sol pitches in to help as best he can with his renewed (if still mediocre) strength. Caelwyn and Swift take positions to guard the diggers, just in case.
'Lil immediately feels guilty. How could she forget to honor this dead guy? She makes a mental note to not be in such a rush and kneels down. "Domi, don't know this guy's story. Maybe he deserves your admiration, maybe he don't. All I know now is that he's done with this life. Hopefully he spent it doing deeds that warrant some good attention in the next." She stands. "We got time to bury him? We should if we can, but ain't no sense getting the rest of us killed." She looks to Biel. Surely the druid had some way to put a body under the dirt.
Biel thinks for a couple of minutes, during which time the hole does not get bigger fast. The ground has lots of roots in it. And although they are mostly tiny roots, they still slow the digging. In the background, you hear the now-constant sounds of creatures moving through the grass, but they seem to be in the distance. Rarely does the sound get louder as if something is approaching, and it fades thereafter. There is no sense that things are avoiding the group, but they do not seem to be seeking you out, either.
Bigby strips some meat from the owlbear and saves it. As he does, he finds a necklace on the owlbear -- not around its neck, but stuck in its bloody and matted fur.
At the same time, Biel says, "Ok. I can bury him, but give me a moment... Since I can't do this often, I'm going to stay in the shape I take for a while. After the man is buried, continue on your way and I will follow you." With that Biel transforms into a small pile of dirt and stones, about the size of Bigby. As the group watches, he sinks into the ground, extends two "arms" back up to wrap around the body of the man, and slowly pulls it into the earth. Before long, the pile of dirt reappears, waves to you, and sinks back down.
The sound in the distance begins to get louder, and soon you make out a drumming to it.
'Lil - (Carl) - 26/26 HP - AC 17/11/16 - CMD 15 Sunday January 12th, 2020 10:58:17 AM
Took him long enough, geez...
"Hey guys, that sounds pretty rhythmic. Animals don't usually do that, do they? Could be some kinda war band coming down on us. We should move."
She doesn't lead the way, though. Someone with better survival skills should do that.
Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 15/29 d20+10=27 ; d20+10=25 ; Monday January 13th, 2020 6:29:06 AM
Grindar sheathes his daggers and draws Bwyell. he is torn as to whether he should take point as is his norm, or if he should take rear guard. Finally he says, "Caelwyn could you take rear guard?" He than takes point. perception 27, survival 25
BigbyWolf ( Michael) 21/25 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 d20+10=27 ; Monday January 13th, 2020 11:33:34 AM
Bigby puts the meat away, "yum yum." Bigby pulls out the necklace from the fur. Looks at it 27 perceptions to see if there's any insignia or picture or some way to connect it to this body. "Hey guys I found this necklace on owlbear. Maybe it is important somehow. Sol or can you check it for magic?"
Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 14/14 AC/T/FF:11/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour d20+11=30 ; Monday January 13th, 2020 6:14:40 PM
"Of course my friend." He takes the necklace and gives it a once over.
((Knowledge Arcana - 30))
"No, Lil, I do not believe animals are that rhythmic... this is potentially dangerous."
He takes a deep breath.
"I wish I had not exhausted my greatest magics on this poor creature now." He says, indicating the owlbear. "On the upside, I still have my mage armour."
Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 27/27; CMD: 15 Monday January 13th, 2020 8:33:30 PM
Caelwyn understands Grindar's feelings of grief and failure. "None of this was your fault, Grindar. All we can do is work harder in the future, all of us, to prevent as much suffering as we can. Take point, I've got the rear...clearly something is coming. We need to move."
DM Steve -- at the short grass d4=2 Monday January 13th, 2020 11:17:55 PM Bigby puts the meat away. Bigby pulls out the necklace from the fur and looks at it to see if there's any insignia or picture or some way to connect it to this body.
Bigby -- Highlight to display spoiler: {While it is a nice-looking pendant, Bigby does not notice anything that seems specific to the body.} "Hey guys I found this necklace on owlbear. Maybe it is important somehow. Sol, can you check it for magic?"
'Lil says, "Hey guys, that sounds pretty rhythmic. Animals don't usually do that, do they? Could be some kinda war band coming down on us. We should move."
Sol tells Bigby, "Of course my friend." He takes the necklace and gives it a once over.
Sol -- Highlight to display spoiler: {Magic was used in the item's creation.}
To 'Lil, Sol says, "No, Lil, I do not believe animals are that rhythmic... this is potentially dangerous." He takes a deep breath. "I wish I had not exhausted my greatest magics on this poor creature now. On the upside, I still have my mage armour."
Grindar sheathes his daggers and draws Bwyell. He is torn as to whether he should take point as is his norm, or if he should take rear guard. Finally he says, "Caelwyn could you take rear guard?" He then takes point.
Grindar -- Highlight to display spoiler: {The "drumming" the group hears sounds like a very large creature running this way.}
Caelwyn understands Grindar's feelings of grief and failure. "None of this was your fault, Grindar. All we can do is work harder in the future, all of us, to prevent as much suffering as we can. Take point, I've got the rear...clearly something is coming. We need to move."
As the group forms up to move out, the sound grows louder. In addition to the drumming, there are sounds that could be breaking underbrush. Reech casts a spell that creates a shimmer in the air in front of him, and disappears into it. A fearful Swift quickly follows him, and both are gone.
Grindar leads the group in a direction he thinks safest, away from the path of the noise. The noise intensifies, then briefly stops. Perception DC: 20 Highlight to display spoiler: {You can't make out exactly what, but something gargantuan runs through the area the group just left. The greens, purples, and browns of whatever it is are the same as the colors of the grasses, but the movement is not. It pauses there a moment, then resumes, this time travelling away along its original path.} The sound then resumes, slowly diminishing but moving faster than the party can.
Grindar continues to lead the group more or less perpendicular to the path taken by the great beast, until he sees something that makes him pause. The group can clearly see from the lighting that ahead of them, the grasses end. Approaching the edge of the grass, they realize that it doesn't actually end -- there is just a fifty foot wide swath of grasses missing in front of them. In this region, which stretches to the horizon on either side, the grasses are only one or two feet high instead of their usual ten to thirty. It is a different view of the grasses, allowing the group to see at once the range of colors they usually encounter one at a time. From deep indigo to turquoise, sapphire, and forest green; from burgundy to umber, sienna to broomstraw.
Although the group has done no more than poke their heads into the corridor to look around, they have seen many creatures are moving within it. It would be faster to travel in this corridor, but it points neither the direction the party was headed nor that the creatures all seem to be going.
'Lil - (Carl) - 26/26 HP - AC 17/11/16 - CMD 15 Tuesday January 14th, 2020 12:04:19 PM
"Well that's weird. What do ya think caused that? We're not walkin' through that, are we? Seems like a trap to me."
Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 14/14 AC/T/FF:11/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour d20+1=21 ; Tuesday January 14th, 2020 5:12:59 PM
Sol nods.
"I agree with Lil, what ever caused the grasses to be this short is probably very large which makes it potentially dangerous. I am not certain is explicitly a TRAP per se, but it may be a migration path of some rather large animal."
BigbyWolf ( Michael) 21/25 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 d20+10=22 ; Tuesday January 14th, 2020 5:53:05 PM
"Any idea what this is Sol? Let's take it with us. Might be helpful." Perception 22. I'm not getting a good vibe about this trail. Bigby looks at Sol, "very large, gargantuan large."
Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 15/29 d20+10=17 ; Tuesday January 14th, 2020 7:07:25 PM
"Well", Grindar says, "I'm not sure what to think, the corridor would be a faster mode of travel, but it really isn't going the way we want. Should we continue as we were, or should we follow this corridor in hopes that it eventually leads where we wish to go?"
Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 27/27; CMD: 15 Tuesday January 14th, 2020 10:09:10 PM
Caelwyn sees nothing but trouble here. "This isn't the right direction...and it's full of potential enemies. I say we look for another option."
DM Steve -- at the short grass Tuesday January 14th, 2020 11:09:19 PM 'Lil says, "Well that's weird. What do ya think caused that? We're not walkin' through that, are we? Seems like a trap to me."
Sol agrees with Lil, "What ever caused the grasses to be this short is probably very large which makes it potentially dangerous."
Bigby, who is still hanging onto the necklace, looks at Sol, "I'm not getting a good vibe about this trail. Very large, gargantuan large."
Grindar says, "I'm not sure what to think, the corridor would be a faster mode of travel, but it really isn't going the way we want. Should we continue as we were, or should we follow this corridor in hopes that it eventually leads where we wish to go?"
Caelwyn sees nothing but trouble here. "This isn't the right direction...and it's full of potential enemies. I say we look for another option."
From the other side of the corridor breaks a large mass of creatures, all moving the same direction. Although there are many creatures, there's not much variety. Mostly insects and spiders of various sizes, although there are some you have never seen before. The strange ones are grotesque hopping beasts, slightly larger than a man. These have muscular rear legs. Their spindly forelegs end in wicked-looking claws, and their face -- which is as wide as their body -- appears to be all mouth.
The stampede of creatures is wide, and headed in the party's direction. They are not exactly attacking each other, and yet many have been injured. They will be upon the party soon. Perhaps the group could flee before them, but that would mean going in the direction all the creatures encountered over the past day have been going, not towards the druids.
'Lil - (Carl) - 26/26 HP - AC 17/11/16 - CMD 15 Wednesday January 15th, 2020 11:09:11 AM
"Right then, detour! Let's move, dudes. I can only patch ya up so much. I can't put you back together or getcha un-eaten."
'Lil follows her own advice and starts moving wherever she needs to to get away from all that.
BigbyWolf ( Michael) 21/25 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 Wednesday January 15th, 2020 11:09:57 AM
"I can cast an entangle spell but that might not exactly solve our problem here."
ooc: sorry rushing out today can't make much of a thoughtful post.
Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 15/29 d20+10=21 ; d20+10=17 ; Wednesday January 15th, 2020 6:02:30 PM "It doesn't seem as though we have a choice, let's go!, Grindar says as he leads the way.
Perception 21, Survival 17
Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 14/14 AC/T/FF:11/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour Wednesday January 15th, 2020 7:34:06 PM
Sol nods and follows Grindar and Lil, without arguing, however, with a wide smile he turns to Bigby.
"I am not certain, all I know is magic was used in the creation of it."
Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 27/27; CMD: 15 Wednesday January 15th, 2020 9:45:22 PM
Caelwyn sighs. "This should be fun." He follows the rest of the party, keen to avoid the stampede of creatures. Clearly this is not something they can fight.
DM Steve -- at the short grass 2d4=4 ; Wednesday January 15th, 2020 10:19:05 PM Grindar leads the way. "It doesn't seem as though we have a choice, let's go!"
"Right then, detour! Let's move, dudes. I can only patch ya up so much." 'Lil follows her own advice and starts moving wherever she needs to to get away from all that.
Bigby offers, "I can cast an entangle spell but that might not exactly solve our problem here."
Sol nods and follows Grindar and Lil, without arguing. With a wide smile he turns to Bigby, "All I know is magic was used in the creation of it."
Caelwyn sighs. "This should be fun." He follows the rest of the party, keen to avoid the stampede of creatures.
The party turns and starts running away from the mass of animals. However, it becomes apparent that doing so will only delay meeting them. The mass in general is slightly faster than the party, although fastest of all seem to be a few giant ants. These quickly outstrip the party.
'Lil - (Carl) - 26/26 HP - AC 17/11/16 - CMD 15 Thursday January 16th, 2020 4:37:53 PM
I thought we were moving perpendicular to them, not away.
"Entangle may buy us enough time, Sol. I say cast it."
Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 15/29 d20+7=8 ; d20+7=25 ; d8+4=10 ; Thursday January 16th, 2020 4:52:41 PM
“Seriously?!”, Grindar grunts in frustration, “I guess we fight!”. With that the half-orc stops running and spins around, knowing instinctively that his friends will either run past to support from the rear or stand beside him depending on their skill set. When the giant ants get within striking distance, Grindar will go full round attack.
Main hand Natural 1 miss
Off hand Hits AC25 for 10 slashing damage.
BigbyWolf ( Michael) 21/25 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 Thursday January 16th, 2020 5:14:11 PM
Bigby casts entangle to slow the animals down heading towards us to move away. and then Bigby runs away with everyone else.
Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 14/14 AC/T/FF:11/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour d4+1=3 ; Thursday January 16th, 2020 6:18:07 PM
"Well blast it all! This is not good. I have expended my greatest arcane power, so will have to resort to less powerful means."
He stays with the party and cast Magic Missile at the closest Ant. ((3 Damage))
DM Steve -- at the short grass d20=16 ; d20=1 ; d20+1=12 ; d6+2=5 ; Friday January 17th, 2020 12:32:56 AM 'Lil says, "Entangle may buy us enough time, Sol. I say cast it."
“Seriously?!”, Grindar grunts in frustration, “I guess we fight!”. With that the half-orc stops running and spins around, prepared to attack any ant that gets in distance.
Bigby casts entangle to slow the animals down heading towards us to move away.
Sol says, "Well blast it all! This is not good. I have expended my greatest arcane power, so will have to resort to less powerful means." He stays with the party and casts Magic Missile at the closest Ant.
The ant taking damage deviates just a little from its path to attack Sol. It bites him in the leg (6 points damage). The giant ant is now within striking distance, and Grindar attacks. He gets in a viscious slash with his off hand.
The stampeding creatures for the most part ignore the party and keep on going. Bigby's entangle has created an area that is free of the things. But some are pushing through the entangle. You have probably two rounds to act before they are upon you.
You see the creatures in the crowd streaming past slamming into and pushing each other frequently, but not stopping to fight with each other.
One ant has taken 13 damage (color coded on the map) and stopped to fight.
If the party was moving perpendicular, events work out the same although a bit sooner.
'Lil - (Carl) - 26/26 HP - AC 17/11/16 - CMD 15 d8+3=5 ; d20+5=13 ; d20+5=20 ; d20+5=19 ; d8+3=11 ; d8+3=11 ; d8+3=9 ; Friday January 17th, 2020 1:47:29 PM
"Hey dudes, these things don't seem to wanna attack us unless we attack'em first." She pulls out Maya and advances next to Sol (can't edit map). She punches Sol lightly in the shoulder. "So stop tryin'a kill them."
CLW on Sol: 5 HP.
She stands ready w/ Maya, ready to attack anything that feels frisky.
***
Move: Move to P22 Standard: CLW
'Lil has 10' reach with Maya and combat reflexes. She can make up to 3 attacks of opportunity.
1: Hit AC 13 for 11 2: Hit AC 20 for 11 3: Hit AC 19 for 9
She'll only attack hostile critters, not ones just rushing by.
BigbyWolf ( Michael) 25/25 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 Friday January 17th, 2020 4:23:50 PM
Bigby will 5 step behind Caelwyn and then go full defense which should bump ac to 20. "he then yells out to the party, line up together and brace for impact guys.
Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 14/14 AC/T/FF:11/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour Friday January 17th, 2020 6:59:49 PM
"OW!!" Sol says jokingly as he rubs his arm. "I was copying him!" as he points at Grindar.
"What do you suggest then?"
Sol will get behind Bigby and Lil, and just wait, as he cannot prepare a spell to be cast.
Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 27/27; CMD: 15 Friday January 17th, 2020 8:18:25 PM
"Wait! We can't outrun these things, and they seem to simply be running past...don't attack! Form a defensive circle, standing very close together with Sol in the center - we will simply fend off those that come near and keep them running by us."
Caelwyn waits to see if the others agree with his idea, but takes a defensive stance, with his shield up.
Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 15/29 d20=4 ; d20=20 ; d20=13 ; d8=6 ; d8=1 ; d8=3 ; d8=7 ; Saturday January 18th, 2020 7:16:14 AM "Well we need to finish off the one that bit Sol, before it does so again, and then hopefully the others will just head on past", Grindar reminds everyone, as he goes into another full round attack.
Main hand 4+7=11 for 10 damage
Off hand natural 20, 20 (not natural) to confirm) confirmed 23, unconfirmed 5
DM Steve -- at the short grass d20=3 ; d20+3=5 ; Saturday January 18th, 2020 4:03:12 PM 'Lil pulls out Maya and advances next to Sol. "Hey dudes, these things don't seem to wanna attack us unless we attack'em first." She punches Sol lightly in the shoulder. "So stop tryin'a kill them." She casts CLW on Sol (restores 5 HP).
Bigby steps behind Caelwyn and then go full defense. He then yells out to the party, "Line up together and brace for impact guys."
Sol says jokingly as he rubs his arm. "OW!! I was copying him!" as he points at Grindar. Sol gets behind Bigby and Lil, and waits.
Caelwyn advises, "Wait! We can't outrun these things, and they seem to simply be running past...don't attack! Form a defensive circle, standing very close together with Sol in the center - we will simply fend off those that come near and keep them running by us." Caelwyn waits to see if the others agree with his idea, but takes a defensive stance, with his shield up.
Grindar reminds everyone, "Well we need to finish off the one that bit Sol, before it does so again, and then hopefully the others will just head on past", as he goes into another full round attack and does just that.
Although Grindar takes care of one ant, he attracts the attention of another in the process. It does not manage to strike him, nor does "Lil manage to strike it, although both tried.
'Lil stands ready with Maya, ready to attack anything that feels frisky. She'll only attack hostile critters, not ones just rushing by.
===== Here is a map. I think it is now editable. You have the chance to position yourselves before facing the stampede. Please also check the status in the header for your post.
The dead ant is no longer indicated on the map. The red 8 is a fresh ant sniffing around Grindar.
Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 27/27; CMD: 15 Sunday January 19th, 2020 9:02:57 PM
Caelwyn continues his defensive stance, trying to shelter Sol and himself behind his shield. "Stick together...if we get separated, this could get ugly..."
Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 15/29 Monday January 20th, 2020 4:22:53 AM
Grindar takes a 5ft step, disengaging from the ant and getting into a single file line with his friends, hoping his friends are right and the rest of the critter horde will simply move on by..
'Lil - (Carl) - 26/26 HP - AC 17/11/16 - CMD 15 Monday January 20th, 2020 10:20:18 AM
'Lil wonders if they could just start some kinda grass fire. That'd probably kill all'a them too, though. Bad idea.
She looks at all them tangled up critters. Even if they was just gonna stand here and hope all them critters passed'em by, they'd probably pissed off all them ones what got tangled.
Was that squirrel that cast that rope spell still around? That would work. If not, maybe it was time to move.
"Guys, unless someone's hiding that squirrel, this ain't no place to be. Even a few feet over there would be better."
BigbyWolf ( Michael) 25/25 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 Monday January 20th, 2020 11:06:11 AM
"I can cast another entangle spell if there's a direction we want to go?"
Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 14/14 AC/T/FF:11/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour Monday January 20th, 2020 1:50:43 PM
Sol nods.
"I think we just want to keep them away from us Bigby my friend. Can you perhaps use entangle to funnel them away from us, or use it like a barrier to keep them away from us?"
Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 27/27; CMD: 15 Monday January 20th, 2020 8:03:55 PM
Caelwyn adjusts his stance, gripping his shield tighter. "Anything to make a barricade, or dissuade them from coming this way, would be helpful!"
DM Steve -- at the short grass d20=5 ; d20+3=11 ; d20+21=31 ; 2d6=9 ; 2d6=10 ; 2d4=6 ; 2d4=6 ; 2d4=3 ; 2d4=4 ; Monday January 20th, 2020 8:45:33 PM Grindar disengages from the ant gets into a single file line with his friends, hoping his friends are right and the rest of the critter horde will simply move on by. The ant, however, has already been disturbed and is in no forgiving mood. It is not able to pierce Grindar's armor this round. It is, however, slammed into by several of the stampeding creatures and injured as a result.
The horde has managed to force its way through the entangled area, and as each creature comes out of the area it resumes stampeding.
Caelwyn continues his defensive stance, trying to shelter Sol and himself behind his shield. "Stick together...if we get separated, this could get ugly..."
Bigby offers, "I can cast another entangle spell if there's a direction we want to go?"
'Lil wonders if they could just start some kinda grass fire. That'd probably kill all'a them too, though. Bad idea. She looks at all them tangled up critters. Even if they was just gonna stand here and hope all them critters passed'em by, they'd probably pissed off all them ones what got tangled. "Guys, unless someone's hiding that squirrel, this ain't no place to be. Even a few feet over there would be better."
Sol nods. "I think we just want to keep them away from us Bigby my friend. Can you perhaps use entangle to funnel them away from us, or use it like a barrier to keep them away from us?"
Caelwyn adds, "Anything to make a barricade, or dissuade them from coming this way, would be helpful!"
As the party discusses options, Grindar finds several of the creatures slamming into him. Although Grindar bears the brunt of the rushing horde, the rest of the group is also knocked about.
===== The damage each character takes is identified below. You are allowed a fortitude save vs DC:30 for half damage. If you want to rearrange the party at this point, anyone who tries to move against the stampede (any direction but down on the map) must make a reflex save vs. DC:25 or be knocked prone.
Grindar: Highlight to display spoiler: {10 points damage. In addition to your fortitude adjustment, you gain a +18 on this save.} Caelwyn: Highlight to display spoiler: {6 points damage. In addition to your fortitude adjustment, you gain a +19 on this save.} Bigby and Wolfgang: Highlight to display spoiler: {6 points damage -- each, I'm afraid. In addition to your fortitude adjustment, Bigby gains a +21 on this save and Wolfgang does, too, thanks to some help from Bigby. If you decide to move, Wolfgang gets a +4 on the reflex roll.} 'Lil: Highlight to display spoiler: {3 points damage. In addition to your fortitude adjustment, you gain a +17 on this save.} Sol: Highlight to display spoiler: {4 points damage. In addition to your fortitude adjustment, you gain a +11 on this save.}
BigbyWolf ( Michael) 22/25 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 24/27 -AC 17 d20+28=35 ; d20+24=39 ; Monday January 20th, 2020 10:56:40 PM
fort 35 bigby, fort 39 wolfgang. Everyone go into a full defensive position, unless you got a better idea. Bigby casts another entangle spell to try to buy the team more time. "If I had more time to prepare different spells, then a pit might work, Bigby thinks out loud," but alas what good is wishful thinking going to do for them right now, Bigby thinks to himself. Brace yourselves for another impact.
Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 5/29 d20+21=41 ; d20+7=19 ; d20+7=20 ; d8+4=7 ; d8+4=8 ; Tuesday January 21st, 2020 7:12:39 AM
Fort save 41(nat 20)
Grindar grunts as he takes the hit from the stampede. Seeing that the ant refuses to give up, he goes attacks with both ends of Bwyell.
Main Hand Hits AC 19 for 7 slashing damage
Off Hand Hits AC 20 for 8 slashing damage
'Lil - (Carl) - 24/26 HP - AC 17/11/16 - CMD 15 d20+21=34 ; Tuesday January 21st, 2020 11:28:19 AM
'Lil grunts as she's knocked around by critters. She keeps it together and stays on her feet, though. She takes a moment to nod in appreciation as Grindar cuts down that ant that won't give up.
Bigby's plan to make another clearing for them is as good as any. She waits for him to cast, then moves when he's done. She ain't quick enough on her feet to avoid being knocked down unless she gets real lucky, so she doesn't try.
OOC: I'm not sure where it's being cast, but 'Lil will move there.
BigbyWolf ( Michael) 22/25 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 24/27 -AC 17 Tuesday January 21st, 2020 12:49:07 PM
Bigby casts entangle to overlap with the other entangle but a little bit further ahead so that the party can slowly move ahead. around 12 s towards w. "I still got one more so not sure if this is gonna get us anywhere quick, but it's the only idea we got for now and hopefully keeps us alive."
Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 10/14 AC/T/FF:11/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour d20+12=26 ; Tuesday January 21st, 2020 5:55:52 PM
Sol is knocked around and unable to avoid the damage he simply tries to stay with Lil and Grindar as he is not capable on his own and will no doubt be trampled to death if he's not careful.
Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 2/27; CMD: 15 d20+26=27 ; Tuesday January 21st, 2020 9:34:54 PM
Caelwyn grits his teeth as the creatures smash into him. He holds his shield high, trying his best to protect Sol and the others along with himself.
Fortitude save - natural 1
DM Steve -- at the short grass d20+3=4 ; d20-2=4 ; 2d6=3 ; 2d4=5 ; 2d4=6 ; 2d4=5 ; 2d4=4 ; Tuesday January 21st, 2020 10:27:14 PM Bigby casts another entangle spell to try to buy the team more time. If I had more time to prepare different spells, then a pit might work, but alas what good is wishful thinking going to do for them right now, Bigby thinks to himself. Brace yourselves for another impact."I still got one more so not sure if this is gonna get us anywhere quick, but it's the only idea we got for now and hopefully keeps us alive."
Grindar grunts as he takes the hit from the stampede. Seeing that the ant refuses to give up, he goes attacks with both ends of Bwyell, killing the ant.
'Lil grunts as she's knocked around by critters. She keeps it together and stays on her feet, though. She takes a moment to nod in appreciation as Grindar cuts down that ant that won't give up. Bigby's plan to make another clearing for them is as good as any. She waits for him to cast, then moves when he's done. She ain't quick enough on her feet to avoid being knocked down unless she gets real lucky, so she doesn't try.
Sol is knocked around and unable to avoid the damage he simply tries to stay with Lil and Grindar as he is not capable on his own and will no doubt be trampled to death if he's not careful.
Caelwyn grits his teeth as the creatures smash into him. He holds his shield high, trying his best to protect Sol and the others along with himself.
A new threat appears among the creatures, unnoticed in the grasses until it was almost upon the party -- a giant flying caterpillar. It seems to have taken a dislike to Caelwyn. It attempts to bite, ineffectually, whereupon it thrashes around, also with no effect.
The stampeding animals continue to slam into the group this round, but at least at the end of it there is a clear space -- one that will remain clear for about two rounds judging by the previous spell.
===== The stampede damage each character takes is identified below. You are allowed a fortitude save vs DC:30 for half damage. If you want to move anywhere except the color-coded critter-free area, you must make a reflex save vs. DC:25 or be knocked prone. You may reach that area and move in it without problem.
Grindar: Highlight to display spoiler: {3 points damage. In addition to your fortitude adjustment, you gain a +18 on this save.} Caelwyn: Highlight to display spoiler: {5 points damage. In addition to your fortitude adjustment, you gain a +19 on this save.} Bigby and Wolfgang: Highlight to display spoiler: {6 points damage -- each, I'm afraid. In addition to your fortitude adjustment, Bigby and Wolfgang gain a +17 on this save. If you decide to move, Wolfgang gets a +4 on the reflex roll.} 'Lil: Highlight to display spoiler: {5 points damage. In addition to your fortitude adjustment, you gain a +17 on this save.} Sol: Highlight to display spoiler: {4 points damage. In addition to your fortitude adjustment, you gain a +11 on this save.}
'Lil - (Carl) - 21/26 HP - AC 17/11/16 - CMD 15 d20+21=41 ; d20+5=9 ; Wednesday January 22nd, 2020 1:10:13 PM
Save: 41
'Lil grunts a bit as the critters keep bashin' into'er, but she's tough. There's a clear spot now, so that's good. She waits until the four critters that weren't tangled up pass before headin' over there.
In the meantime, she makes a stab at the caterpillar, but it's bad (Hit AC 9).
Once she's moved, she turns and prepares herself in case the bug chases'em.
Using previously rolled AoOs that weren't used yet:
Hit AC 20 for 11 Hit AC 19 for 9
BigbyWolf ( Michael) 16/25 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 21/27 -AC 17 d20+24=26 ; d20+20=37 ; d20+6=18 ; d20+6=8 ; d2+3=5 ; d20+4=17 ; d6+1=4 ; d20+10=29 ; Wednesday January 22nd, 2020 3:05:06 PM
Bigby and Wolfgang attack the flying catepillar. fort 26, 37. Only wolfgang takes half. claw 18, dmg 5, claw 8 miss. Wolfgang bite 17, 4 dmg if hit. If the creature is dead by 'Lil will just move, otherwise won't be able to. 29 reflex if can move.
Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 7/29 d20+21=27 ; d20+9=13 ; d8+6=7 ; Wednesday January 22nd, 2020 5:50:43 PM
Grindar takes a two handed swing at the caterpillar before rushing through the opening into the clear space.
Hits AC 13 for 7 damage
Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 6/14 AC/T/FF:11/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour d20+12=28 ; d20+3=8 ; Wednesday January 22nd, 2020 6:02:32 PM
Sol again is bashed around, being seriously injured at this point makes an attempt to move onto the critter free area, however he fails to move and is knocked prone with a loud crunch.
He looks bruised and battered and seriously injured.
Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 19/27; CMD: 15 d20+26=30 ; d6=1 ; Wednesday January 22nd, 2020 9:38:54 PM
Caelwyn only takes a small hit from the animals. He looks in disgust at the flying caterpillar. "Well let's get rid of that thing before it hurts someone!" He is about to stab it, but then sees Sol. "Sol, get up!" He makes an action to help pull Sol to his feet, covering them with his shield and using Lay on Hands as he does so.
Fortitude save 30
Sol take 1 point of health (sigh...)
Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 7/29 d20+5=15 ; Wednesday January 22nd, 2020 9:44:45 PM
Forgot the fort save for half. Didn’t matter, failed it anyway.
DM Steve -- at the short grass Wednesday January 22nd, 2020 10:31:19 PM 'Lil grunts a bit as the critters keep bashin' into'er, but she's tough. There's a clear spot now, so that's good. She makes a stab at the caterpillar, but misses. She then waits until the critters that weren't tangled up pass before headin' where it's clear. Once she's moved, she turns and prepares herself in case the bug chases'em.
Bigby and Wolfgang attack the flying caterpillar while they're getting buffeted by the passing horde. Bigby claws the caterpillar once, and Wolfgang gets in a bite. They have no problem moving to the clear spot.
Grindar takes a two handed swing at the caterpillar before rushing through the opening into the clear space. He misses. (Grindar was successful on his save.)
Sol again is bashed around, being seriously injured at this point. He is able to move into the critter free area without problem. He looks bruised and battered and seriously injured.
Caelwyn only takes a small hit from the animals. He looks in disgust at the flying caterpillar. "Well let's get rid of that thing before it hurts someone!" He is about to stab it, but then sees Sol. He helps Sol move, using Lay on Hands as he does so. (Sol: gain 1 point of health)
Although wounded by Bigby and Wolfgang, the caterpillar follows Caelwyn. This gives Lil the opportunity to skewer it. As it dies, the caterpillar gives off an acrid smell.
The group is out of the stampede for the moment, but it still surrounds them. Elsewhere in the clear zone, a mound of dirt and rock rises from the ground and turns into Biel. The group has a round to move and prepare before the stampede returns.
'Lil - (Carl) - 21/26 HP - AC 17/11/16 - CMD 15 Thursday January 23rd, 2020 3:48:09 PM
'Lil grunts as the pulls Maya outta that smelly caterpillar. "Gross," she exclaims as she whips the spear around. A trail of ichor follows it. Hopefully none'a it gets on her dudes.
She's real glad to see Biel for once. "Hey Mr. Druid dude! You gotta wall spell or somethin' handy? Maybe more'a them rope spells? I'll be darned if I'm going out trampled by giant ants."
***
OOC: Don't forget, we re-roll any 1s from healing spells.
Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 7/29 Thursday January 23rd, 2020 6:42:55 PM
Grindar nods his head as Lil talks to Biel. "I don't know how many more of these hits I can take!"
Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 6/14 AC/T/FF:11/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour Thursday January 23rd, 2020 6:57:06 PM
Sol takes a few moments to breath before he stands up, as he was knocked down as he made it into the critter free area.
"This is not safe place to be... does anyone have any ideas on what we can do? I am nearly out of magical resources."
BigbyWolf ( Michael) 16/25 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 21/27 -AC 17 Thursday January 23rd, 2020 7:30:18 PM
"hang in there my friends, I don't know the answer but I'm hoping Biel does."
Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 19/27; CMD: 15 d6=5 ; Thursday January 23rd, 2020 11:22:46 PM
Caelwyn looks around. "Perhaps we should reform to the east, on the edge of the approaching group? Let's just not be right in the middle!" He hopes the others will join him and move out of the direct path of the approaching animals.
Re-rolled 1 on healing from last round - Grindar, take 5 health rather than 1
DM Steve -- at the short grass d20=8 ; Friday January 24th, 2020 12:25:26 AM 'Lil grunts as the pulls Maya outta that smelly caterpillar. As she whips the spear around, a trail of ichor follows it. Hopefully none'a it gets on her dudes. "Hey Mr. Druid dude! You gotta wall spell or somethin' handy? Maybe more'a them rope spells? I'll be darned if I'm going out trampled by giant ants."
Grindar nods his head as Lil talks to Biel. "I don't know how many more of these hits I can take!"
Sol takes a few moments to breath before he stands up, as he was knocked down as he made it into the critter free area. "This is not safe place to be... does anyone have any ideas on what we can do? I am nearly out of magical resources."
Bigby says, "hang in there my friends, I don't know the answer but I'm hoping Biel does."
Caelwyn looks around. "Perhaps we should reform to the east, on the edge of the approaching group? Let's just not be right in the middle!" He hopes the others will join him and move out of the direct path of the approaching animals.
Biel casts a spell before answering, "Protect these guys." Three creatures just like Reech appear -- perhaps Reech is even one of them. Know arcana DC:26 or spellcraft DC:16 Highlight to display spoiler: {Biel cast one of the Summon Fey Friend spells.}
As you prepare for another onslaught of creatures, Biel quickly casts another spell. A couple of spiders make it through the entangled area before Biel is done, but they don't seem interested in you. The area that Bigby had entangled grows much denser, and the creatures within it are reduced to a crawl.
Meanwhile, the bipedal squirrel guys are casting as well. Whatever they are doing takes a little longer. The air begins to shimmer and swirl in an area in front of the party, and as it swirls an ethereal humming begins -- so soft you aren't sure at first whether you're really hearing it, but shifting slowly in pitch and tempo. The swirling area elongates away from the group, out into the stampede, where creatures run through it without noticing. The end of this area in front of you slows even as its outer rim speeds up, such that you end up with a shimmering "tube" or "pipe" about six feet in diameter leading away from you as far as you can see into the grass. You realize the squirrel guys are humming along with the music the tube is making.
"Please, enter the fey corridor," Biel says, indicating the shimmering tunnel.
====
The re-rolled healing Caelwyn provided went to Sol, take 5 health rather than 1.
Your characters can spend three rounds in recovery or preparation -- healing, etc.
'Lil - (Carl) - 21/26 HP - AC 17/11/16 - CMD 15 Friday January 24th, 2020 5:42:16 PM "Enter the Fey Corridor..." 'Lil thinks to herself. "I ain't no bard, but if I ever start a band, I know what I'm callin' our first song."
'Lil ain't sure about this, but it can't be worse than getting trampled by critters. She enters the fey corridor, humming a little tune as she goes.
Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 6/14 AC/T/FF:11/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour d20+11=18 ; d3=2 ; d20+11=12 ; Friday January 24th, 2020 5:49:15 PM
Sol, apparently due to the injuries is unable to recognise the spell.
"What is that spell?!? It seems remarkable useful."
Once the corridor appears.
"That one as well. But I think we have little choice, though I could use a touch of healing if anyone has anything to spare."
BigbyWolf ( Michael) 16/25 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 21/27 -AC 17 Friday January 24th, 2020 5:55:24 PM
"ok, ok, let's get out of here. doot doot doo...doot doot doo," hums bigby along with 'Lil.
'Lil - (Carl) - 26/26 HP - AC 17/11/16 - CMD 15 d6=3 ; d6=3 ; d6=2 ; d6=3 ; Saturday January 25th, 2020 8:52:32 AM
'Lil starts to harmonize with Bigby when she notices Sol's hurt. So is everyone.
She places a hand on the holy symbol tattooed on her chest. At appropriate moments during the song she's hummin', she lets positive energy flow outta her.
Channel 1: 6 healing Channel 2: 5 healing
What has it got in its pockets?
DM Steve -- at the short grass Saturday January 25th, 2020 2:07:03 PM 'Lil ain't sure about this, but it can't be worse than getting trampled by critters. She enters the fey corridor, humming a little tune as she goes.
Sol, apparently due to the injuries is unable to recognize the spell. "What is that spell?!? It seems remarkable useful. . . That one as well. But I think we have little choice, though I could use a touch of healing if anyone has anything to spare."
Bigby hums along with 'Lil. "ok, ok, let's get out of here. doot doot doo...doot doot doo."
'Lil starts to harmonize with Bigby when she notices Sol's hurt. So is everyone. She places a hand on the holy symbol tattooed on her chest. At appropriate moments during the song she's hummin', she lets positive energy flow outta her.
===== The party is healed (11 points each) by 'Lil's ministrations. Each party member receives 1,800 XP (detailed in e-mail). This puts the PCs at 4th level. Bigby gains 1 Hero Point for his use of entangle to save the party. Normally, this would be time to rest, recover, and buff but you're in no position to rest or recover. =====
The party enters the fey corridor. From within it things look pretty much the same. The squirrel guys keep up their humming as they walk along the corridor, but the first thing the characters notice is that they're still headed for the middle of the stampede. Suddenly, a six foot tall rabbit -- very well dressed, with an exquisite pair of scabbards strapped to his sides -- blocks the way. "Biel? Why have you brought a creature of the Warper-Sarr here of all places?"
The rabbit is in the area of the stampede, but the stampeding creatures move right through him without causing him any harm. Biel walks up to it, with a look of confusion on his face that suddenly clears. The stampede moves through Biel as well. "The beastman is Bigby, a young druid. He is no more a creature of the Warper-Sarr than you or I. You know I would not be helping him or his friends without learning where they stand first. Just because the Warper-Sarr made the beastfolk does not mean they all follow him."
While the rabbit and Biel talk, the party members notice that there are other creatures in the area -- creatures they had not seen from outside of the fey corridor. Obviously intelligent animals, mostly, although there are a few little people that you see, too. You find that by concentrating on the creatures around you, the Sargrass and stampede seem to fade in the background. The occassional ant or spider walking through you can still be a bit disconcerting.
Grindar or perception DC:18 Highlight to display spoiler: {“Oops don’t go that way, you’ll die mortal,” says a tiny woman with dragonfly wings, prompting a laugh from two friends with her.}
The discussion between the rabbit and the druid seems to have reached some agreement. The rabbit addresses the group, "We will help you find the druids. Follow us, but stay with the group." Several of the others begin humming themselves, and as you move through this place you find you are moving through what you can see of the Sargrass at a faster pace than you can normally manage.
Caelwyn or perception DC:18 Highlight to display spoiler: {“Ooo, you're cute. Are you married?” asks a small woman with grasshopper legs. "Now Katy, I saw him first!" another replies. The two glare daggers at each other for a moment, then seem to forget the quarrel. "No, seriously," says the first after the other turns away.}
After a short while, Biel asks, "Bigby, would you see if your compass still works here?"
Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 20, HP 18/32 Llew AC 15/14/11 CMD 15 HP 17 d20+11=19 ; Sunday January 26th, 2020 10:54:29 AM
Grindar smiles at the tiny fey lady, and says "Thanks for the guidance!". He then follows his friends down the corridor. When the rabbit speaks against Bigby, he is infuriated that someone would speak ill of one he considers a brother, and would lay down his life for, but he allows reason to rule the day, and let's Biel do the talking.
BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 Sunday January 26th, 2020 5:08:55 PM
Bigby takes note of what the druid's talk about when they mention Bigby and tucks that away for later. Bigby takes out the compass and checks to see if it works and then shows the group.
'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 18/12/16 - CMD 17 d20+7=9 ; d20+7=11 ; Monday January 27th, 2020 10:40:22 AM
'Lil's so busy lookin' at the inside'a bugs that she don't notice anything. She's super glad they're not running her over anymore, so there's that.
Her shackles get up when this dumb bunny starts talkin' about Bigby. 'Lil holds her tongue, barely, but she sticks close to her wolfy friend while they're in this tunnel, in case any other dumb critters get the same ideas.
Edit: Header update
Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour d20+1=15 ; d20+1=16 ; Monday January 27th, 2020 5:55:20 PM
Sol perks up a little,
"Thank you for that healing Lil. It is good to feel relatively safe again."
Because of the healing, he is however oblivious to the other things going on.
Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 27/27; CMD: 15 Monday January 27th, 2020 8:47:48 PM
Caelwyn smiles, in what he hopes is a gracious but non-encouraging way, at the...grasshopper woman. "I'm flattered, my good lady. I'm not married, but my life is dedicated to the service of Domi. His sacred work is my passion."
He looks around, fascinated at what he sees around him. He takes in the rabbit's words about Bigby with less ire than his friends. He knows little about Bigby's people, but it seems clear that not long ago, they may have been in the service of one this creature considered hostile. It makes sense to take precautions.
DM Steve -- at the short grass Monday January 27th, 2020 11:52:39 PM Grindar smiles at the tiny fey lady, and says "Thanks for the guidance!". He then follows his friends down the corridor. When the rabbit speaks against Bigby, he is infuriated that someone would speak ill of one he considers a brother, and would lay down his life for, but he allows reason to rule the day, and let's Biel do the talking.
Bigby takes note of what the druid's talk about when they mention Bigby and tucks that away for later. Bigby takes out the compass and checks to see if it works and then shows the group. Biel gives a satisfied grunt when he sees that the compass points the direction the party is moving, then says, "Let's check it again in fifteen or twenty minutes."
'Lil's so busy lookin' at the inside'a bugs that she don't notice anything. She's super glad they're not running her over anymore, so there's that. Her shackles get up when this dumb bunny starts talkin' about Bigby. 'Lil holds her tongue, barely, but she sticks close to her wolfy friend while they're in this tunnel, in case any other dumb critters get the same ideas.
Sol perks up a little, "Thank you for that healing Lil. It is good to feel relatively safe again." Because of the healing, he is however oblivious to the other things going on.
Caelwyn smiles, in what he hopes is a gracious but non-encouraging way, at the...grasshopper woman. "I'm flattered, my good lady. I'm not married, but my life is dedicated to the service of Domi. His sacred work is my passion." He looks around, fascinated at what he sees around him. He takes in the rabbit's words about Bigby with less ire than his friends. He knows little about Bigby's people, but it seems clear that not long ago, they may have been in the service of one this creature considered hostile. It makes sense to take precautions.
The party finds that they are walking through the stampede much faster than a horse can gallop over good ground, although they do not feel themselves exerting more than they would for a lazy stroll. As you settle in for the hike, Biel starts explaining. "You may not have heard them called the planes of existence, but you're familiar with the Wold and the Lands of Rest. Well, between these lands are a number of other places, collectively known as the shadowlands. Right now you are in the shadowlands somewhere between the Wold and the Fae Realm. The Fae Realm gets really close to the Wold in some places and times, so we are right now as close to the Wold as we can be without getting trampled. And one thing some Fae have the ability to do, like our friends the diddles here, is manipulate the shadowlands -- they can close off pockets from the Fae Realm and the Wold, or they can connect them through corridors. No one remembers what the Fey Corridor used to connect, it faded away from lack of use ages ago. But the corridor remains, and it is useful. Like right now, when we're using it to create a shortcut to the druids that is safe from the creatures there."
Bigby or Perception DC:18 Highlight to display spoiler: {Bigby finds himself walking alongside a small man, a full head shorter than Bigby himself, dressed in leaves and smudged with dirt. He is clearly afraid of Bigby, and even more so of Wolfgang, but he says, "Long-winded, isn't he? I like your wolf. Is he your brother?"}
The stampede outside is thinning, but that is by no means reassuring. From out of nowhere a large chitinous claw crashes down into the grass, connected to a house-sized crab. You can hardly see what it's fighting. There is something there, but you get only vague impressions of movement -- shimmers in the air, grass being crushed. The party has moved on before you can tell which creature appears to be winning.
"As for the creatures there," Biel gestures to the lessening horde outside the corridor, "they are being affected by one of the Warper-Sarr's creations -- a mutation bloom. " He thinks a bit before going on, "I expect you've faced some odd things in the last day or two. The Warper-Sarr has mutated a number of creatures around these parts -- changing them, usually in ways that don't do them any good. One of the things he does to change creatures is the mutation bloom. It's a flower. Before it blooms, it attracts creatures from far around it. Intelligent creatures can tell something's going on and resist it. Animals often have enough intelligence to avoid it. But mutated creatures -- it tugs at them more strongly somehow. Not only tugs at them, but makes them violent. The mutations will generally attack anything they come across. When a powerful enough mutation encounters a number of creatures that haven't mutated, those creatures run away of course. in time, the result is a stampede. All this means that a large number of creatures approach the mutation bloom -- some violent monstrosities, some just trying to escape the violence. And after a few days, the flower blooms. Everything nearby when the flower blooms changes. Every animal within range mutates or dies."
Perception DC: 18 Highlight to display spoiler: {Many of the fae are fascinated by what is going on outside the corridor. You feel the party could travel even faster if the fae weren't taking time to gawk.}
Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 20, HP 18/32 Llew AC 15/14/11 CMD 15 HP 17 Tuesday January 28th, 2020 6:21:45 AM "If this is the Warper-Sar's idea of progress, I am forced to believe he isn't right in the head", Grindar says after hearing Biel's words, and seeing for himself the destructive force the immortal power has unleashed.
BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 Tuesday January 28th, 2020 1:12:24 PM
Bigby turns to smaller man, "This is Wolfgang. yeah he's me brother for sure, or am I your brother eh?" Bigby scratches behind Wolfgangs ear. "so, what you so scared of?"
'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 18/12/16 - CMD 17 d20+8=9 ; d20+8=10 ; Tuesday January 28th, 2020 1:23:59 PM
'Lil scratches'er head. "Makes sense in a sick kinda way. Speed up mutations, then make'em fight so the strongest survive. It's like evolution, only faster. I guess I'm beginin' to see the philosophy behind it, but if they don't evolve the noble and ignoble races the same as all these critters, eventually them evolved critters is gonna be a real big threat to them. Puttin' those folks in danger like that counts as evil in my book, but I ain't from around here." She shrugs and keeps on walkin', continuing to be oblivious to everything going on around her.
Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour d20+1=13 ; d20+1=2 ; Tuesday January 28th, 2020 4:43:54 PM
Sol looks somewhat uncertain, if not, appalled by the callous disregard for life and the idea of forcibly mutating creatures.
"That is... horrible... we should make haste back to the druids, we do not wish to remain here longer than is necessary. Is there no way to stop a... bloom as you call it?"
Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 27/27; CMD: 15 Tuesday January 28th, 2020 9:03:00 PM
Caelwyn is also disturbed by the Warper-Sarr and his idea of progress. "I knew I didn't like the Warper-Sarr very much. Biel, how did you know where to find us?"
DM Steve -- at the short grass Tuesday January 28th, 2020 11:28:05 PM
The party seems to find the Warper-Sarr's mutation bloom to be abhorent -- at least as described by Biel.
Grindar says after hearing Biel's words, and seeing for himself the destructive force the immortal power has unleashed, "If this is the Warper-Sar's idea of progress, I am forced to believe he isn't right in the head."
'Lil scratches'er head. "Makes sense in a sick kinda way. Speed up mutations, then make'em fight so the strongest survive. It's like evolution, only faster. I guess I'm beginin' to see the philosophy behind it, but if they don't evolve the noble and ignoble races the same as all these critters, eventually them evolved critters is gonna be a real big threat to them. Puttin' those folks in danger like that counts as evil in my book, but I ain't from around here."
Sol looks somewhat uncertain, if not appalled, by the callous disregard for life and the idea of forcibly mutating creatures. "That is... horrible... we should make haste back to the druids, we do not wish to remain here longer than is necessary. Is there no way to stop a... bloom as you call it?"
Caelwyn is also disturbed by the Warper-Sarr and his idea of progress. "I knew I didn't like the Warper-Sarr very much." But he diverges from that thought, "Biel, how did you know where to find us?"
Biel replies that he is sorry it took so long to find the group after teling you he would follow, but the senses of an elemental do not work well at distinguishing a small group in a large stampede. It wasn't until Bigby;s entangle that he was able to guess where you must be.
Bigby turns to a small man, about two feet tall, and explains, "This is Wolfgang. yeah he's me brother for sure, or am I your brother eh?" Bigby scratches behind Wolfgangs ear. "So, what you so scared of?"
The little guy defensively responds that he's not scared before admitting that, yes, he is a bit. "It's just -- well, foxes, wolves, dogs -- they've been a trial to my family over the years. You're so much like them -- but Biel called you a druid. The druids have always helped us."
Outside the corridor, creatures are still moving in the Wold. These are mostly mutants, looking like odd combinations of other things you have seen but not like things you can identify. There is quite a lot of bloodshed.
Perception DC: 10 Highlight to display spoiler: {Although this event clearly affects the animals, there are no signs of it affecting the plants.} Perception DC: 15 Highlight to display spoiler: {The fae have slowed. You are still moving quickly, but not as quickly as you were.}
Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 20, HP 18/32 Llew AC 15/14/11 CMD 15 HP 17 d20+9=29 ; Wednesday January 29th, 2020 7:35:33 AM
Perception 29
”Is there a reason the bloom doesn’t affect the plants, or hasn’t that been figured out yet, and is there a reason we are slowing?”, Grindar asks as a way to clarify his observations. He is relieved that, for the moment anyway, they don’t have to deal with the mutants.
'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 18/12/16 - CMD 17 d20+8=28 ; Wednesday January 29th, 2020 12:33:44 PM
'Lil senses the same stuff Grindar does. Mostly, she just watches the fighting since there ain't much else to do. It's weird, walkin' through a nightmare like this. Mutants everywhere tearin' each other apart while her and her dudes just mosey through it all. She's kinda glad it's a blur.
BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 d20+10=20 ; Wednesday January 29th, 2020 1:28:57 PM
perception 20. Bigby shakes his head in agreement to what Grindar says. To the other little guy, " I am a druid yes and we won't harm you unless you attack our pack. So nothing to worry about. Can you tell me more about your family?"
Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 27/27; CMD: 15 d20+2=21 ; Wednesday January 29th, 2020 10:42:39 PM
Caelwyn considers Grindar's question, even as he observes the same thing. "I wonder...does the Warper's power extend only to animals, or are they simply the first trial of his strength?"
DM Steve -- at the short grass Wednesday January 29th, 2020 11:46:11 PM Grindar asks as a way to clarify his observations, ”Is there a reason the bloom doesn’t affect the plants, or hasn’t that been figured out yet, and is there a reason we are slowing?” He is relieved that, for the moment anyway, they don’t have to deal with the mutants.
'Lil senses the same stuff Grindar does. Mostly, she just watches the fighting since there ain't much else to do. It's weird, walkin' through a nightmare like this. Mutants everywhere tearin' each other apart while her and her dudes just mosey through it all. She's kinda glad it's a blur.
Bigby shakes his head in agreement to what Grindar says. To the other little guy, he says, "I am a druid yes and we won't harm you unless you attack our pack. So nothing to worry about. Can you tell me more about your family?"
Biel reacts to the question, calling to the rabbit-man, "Doughty, your army is straying." The rabbit is obviously annoyed at the rebuke.
Sol: Highlight to display spoiler: {Most of the fey have been using Sylvan when they talk to each other, and Common when they talk to the party. When Grindar points it out and Biel reacts, they realize they have been paying more attention to what is going on in the Wold than they have been to reaching the druids. Much the way 'Lil is, they have been watching the fighting.}
Caelwyn considers Grindar's question, even as he observes the same thing. "I wonder...does the Warper's power extend only to animals, or are they simply the first trial of his strength?"
"Dearie," says Caelwyn's tiny admirer, "of course the Warper-Sarr can affect more than animals. His first show of strength was the bloodgrass." The other fey react to the mention of bloodgrass. It was nasty stuff, that spread mutation to whatever it touched.
Doughty starts to answer Biel, embarassed, when he stops and gets a strange look like he's listening to something faint. Pretty soon everyone feels something -- not a sound, but the odd tugging at your mind that's been going on the past day becomes very noticeable and more intense. The fey all look at each other like something has happened, but you don't know what. "It's different!" . . . "The bloom -- that's not a normal mutation bloom." . . . "This one feels pure." Doughty makes a decision, "We're going back. Sorry Biel, but it's more important that we learn what is happening than visit the grove right away."
The fey troop turns around, and Biel advises everyone to stick with them. It's dangerous to wander here without an experienced guide.
'Lil: Highlight to display spoiler: {There is a raccoon in the Wold -- a raccoon with glowing eyes. It tracks you as the group turns around, and starts to follow as you leave but is unable to keep up.}
Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour d20+1=12 ; d20+1=7 ; Thursday January 30th, 2020 2:21:31 AM
Sol nods at the decision to head back, despite is injuries and reservations.
"Of course, we must understand what his happening. Please, lead on."
As the group begins to head back, a great smile appears on his face, he's clearly rather excited.
Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 20, HP 18/32 Llew AC 15/14/11 CMD 15 HP 17 Thursday January 30th, 2020 10:07:37 AM ”First we run from, now we run too, I’m beginning to feel like a yo-yo!”, Grindar exclaims, ”I struggle to see how what I’m witnessing is pure!” In spite of his misgivings, Grindar goes along with the rest.
'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 18/12/16 - CMD 17 Thursday January 30th, 2020 10:52:48 AM
Well don't that beat all.
'Lil makes her way over to Biel, who's the only one in this whole sorted mess'a druids she trusts even a little. "Hey Biel, should that raccoon over there be able to see us? Cuz I swear the thing's trackin' me."
BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 Thursday January 30th, 2020 11:51:38 AM
"what is a pure mutation?" Bigby continues on with the group.
DM Steve -- at the short grass d20+4=19 ; d3=1 ; d20=3 ; Thursday January 30th, 2020 11:58:44 PM Sol nods at the decision to head back, despite is injuries and reservations. "Of course, we must understand what his happening. Please, lead on." As the group begins to head back, a great smile appears on his face, he's clearly rather excited.
”First we run from, now we run too, I’m beginning to feel like a yo-yo! I struggle to see how what I’m witnessing is pure!” In spite of his misgivings, Grindar goes along with the rest.
Bigby continues on with the group. "what is a pure mutation?"
'Lil makes her way over to Biel, who's the only one in this whole sorted mess she trusts even a little. "Hey Biel, should that raccoon over there be able to see us? Cuz I swear the thing's trackin' me." Biel looks to see what 'Lil is talking about, but by this time the raccoon has been left behind. "I've never heard of anything in the Wold being able to see into the fey corridor, except when the opening is created," he replies.
The whole time the party has been travelling with the troop, the squirrel-things ("diddles," Biel had called them) have been humming their tune. One of them suddenly stops, and as the change in sound draws your attention you see he is face to face with a raccoon like 'Lil described, and the raccoon attacks him. The diddle takes a minor wound, but the troop finds itself in the Wold. The tug of the mutation bloom is more compelling than ever.
The party find themselves in front of a giant with long and shaggy red hair and the biggest axe they've ever seen. The giant seems startled, and has not reacted to their appearance.
Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour d20+1=2 ; Friday January 31st, 2020 2:26:25 AM
Sol simply smiles, and waves at the Giant before calling out to him.
"Hello my friend! How are you today? You seem confused, is there anything we can do to help?"
((2 on Diplomacy Check. Eek!))
Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 20, HP 18/32 Llew AC 15/14/11 CMD 15 HP 17 d20+10=13 ; Friday January 31st, 2020 7:22:39 AM
Grindar’s hackles go up at the sight of a favored enemy (humanoid: giants), and Bwyell is in his hands in a flash. He tries to identify the Giant, before charging him. (Knowledge nature: 13)
BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 Friday January 31st, 2020 11:47:54 AM
Bigby readies himself to follow Grindars lead. He figures a ranger knows how to deal with giants.
'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 18/12/16 - CMD 17 d20+6=19 ; d8+3=6 ; Friday January 31st, 2020 2:26:56 PM
"Woah," exclaims 'Lil as she finds herself outside they fey corridor. She pulls Maya from her back and sticks by Sol, ready to attack if anything comes near.
Move: Get next to Sol. Readied action: stab anything in range. Hit AC 19 for 6.
DM Steve -- at the short grass Saturday February 1st, 2020 1:50:54 PM Sol simply smiles, and waves at the Giant before calling out to him. "Hello my friend! How are you today? You seem confused, is there anything we can do to help?" The giant glares at Sol. It is a small giant, only 12' tall or so. His axe is also about 12' and undoubtedly weighs more than Bigby.
Grindar’s hackles go up at the sight of a favored enemy (humanoid: giants), and Bwyell is in his hands in a flash. He tries to identify the Giant, before charging him. Grindar: Highlight to display spoiler: {This is s firbolg in its natural state. Had it known people were coming, Grindar thinks the firbolg would have chosen a less threatening appearance. As giants go, it is less threatening than most.}
Bigby readies himself to follow Grindars lead. He figures a ranger knows how to deal with giants. The giant's eyes widen upon seeing Bigby, then it looks really confused upon seeing the other creatures near Bigby.
"Woah," exclaims 'Lil as she finds herself outside they fey corridor. She pulls Maya from her back and sticks by Sol, ready to attack if anything comes near. She dispatches the "raccoon" attacking the creature that's her best way out of here.
The giant makes a gesture of covering its mouth and points into the grasses. The party sees only grass in that direction, but hears a low -- growling? moaning? humming? -- sound. The giant slowly parts about 10' of grasses with the axe to let folks see. After that, behind you a voice quietly but firmly gives orders. Must be the rabbit. "Bell, get the flower. Agatha, guard her. We need an escape ready. Heal the wounded or give what aid you can." As the little woman with dragonfly wings who spoke to Grindar when the party first entered the fae corridor flies into the breach made by the axe, a fascinatingly hideous three-foot tall humanoid follows her.
Perception DC:12 determines if you are able to get a decent angle in the crowd. Highlight to display spoiler: {The grasses part to reveal a trampled and bloody bowl scattered with bodies. The bowl must be a hundred feet or more across. In the center is a glowing flower, it's brightness noticeably increasing as you look. Among the bodies are some creatures that are still alive, others you cannot be sure of. The creatures that are still alive are no longer fighting -- they are staying in place, quivering, and some are writhing as they slowly change. Bell moves slowly and carefully along the axe and into the bowl. Her protector moves only a few feet at a time, but is deceptively fast while moving. As you watch the pair, Bell takes several rounds to fly up to the flower and begin cutting it from the stem.}
While the above his happening, the entire group feels itself healed of all wounds. The diddles begin humming quietly. The party member who makes the highest Charisma check is offered a hug by a young woman with a fox'es tail. The other members may choose from a small pouch, a rock the size of a sling stone, a clover leaf, and a feather on a short string.
Those who can see Bell: Highlight to display spoiler: {As Bell completes cutting the flower from the stem, she makes a bee-line back to the troop of fey. She almost makes it to the grass before the mutating creatures in the bowl react. Agatha keeps a path open for Bell.} And amid sudden howls of fury, Bell flies through the grass and into the now-open fae corridor, carrying a glowing flower as big as she is. As the giant prepares to attack whatever may follow, the view disappears. The other fey creatures begin streaming into the corridor themselves as quickly as they can.
Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 20, HP 18/32 Llew AC 15/14/11 CMD 15 HP 17 d20+11=30 ; d20=19 ; Saturday February 1st, 2020 4:16:01 PM
Perception 30, Charisma check 19
"Nothing to worry about with the giant guys, I'm pretty sure he isn't a threat to us", Grindar shares with his friends. When the firbolg clears the view for him, Grindar clearly sees Bell, and finds himself cheering her on, in his mind, finding he feels a sense of relief when she makes it back into the fey corridor safely. If he wins the hug, he will except it whole heartedly, otherwise he will except the feather on the short string. He follows the fey back into the corridor.
Caelwyn accepts the sling-stone-sized rock,feeling utterly bemused at what is happening. "Not quite sure what this is all about, but something tells me we should be ready for trouble..." He prepares his trident and shield for action.
'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 18/12/16 - CMD 17 d20+8=12 ; d20+1=17 ; Monday February 3rd, 2020 10:49:25 AM
Perception: 12 Charisma: 17
'Lil wipes Maya off on nearby grass as she observes what the giant's showing them. "I think that flower's the mutation bloom Biel was talkin' about." She looks down at her fingers to make sure they ain't changing into claws or wings or tentacles or nothin'. "Think I'm still me. That's good. What's this clover leaf for?" she asks as it's pressed into her hand. She looks around. "We supposed to be headin' back into that fey tunnel too?" 'Lil's super confused about all this.
Sol smiles at the Giant, and watches what happens with a renewed interest, seeing the flower pulsing seems to interest him.
"Shall we take a closer look or do we think that is a bad idea?"
BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 d20+10=28 ; d20=9 ; Monday February 3rd, 2020 5:44:08 PM
perception 28. Charisma 9. Bigby didn't want a hug anyhow. "So...how much does that axe weigh?"
Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 40/40; CMD: 15 d10=8 ; d10=1 ; Monday February 3rd, 2020 7:47:13 PM
Caelwyn grips his trident, waiting to see what emerges...
OOC: Rolls on hit dice to upgrade my HP two levels (I never did it for 3rd level...)
Roll 1 - 8, Roll 2 - 1
DM Steve -- at the short grass Monday February 3rd, 2020 11:49:59 PM "Nothing to worry about with the giant guys, I'm pretty sure he isn't a threat to us", Grindar shares with his friends. When the firbolg clears the view for him, Grindar clearly sees Bell, and finds himself cheering her on, in his mind, finding he feels a sense of relief when she makes it back into the fey corridor safely.
Caelwyn also gets a clear view -- in fact, the entire party does.
'Lil wipes Maya off on nearby grass as she observes what the giant's showing them. "I think that flower's the mutation bloom Biel was talkin' about." She looks down at her fingers to make sure they ain't changing into claws or wings or tentacles or nothin'. "Think I'm still me. That's good."
Sol smiles at the Giant, and watches what happens with a renewed interest, seeing the flower pulsing seems to interest him. "Shall we take a closer look or do we think that is a bad idea?" Biel answers, "Go out among the mutating beasties while the fairy lass collects the magic that's hlding them in thrall?" No one else is making a move to enter the area. In fact, the fey seem eager to be leaving as soon as they can.
Bigby watches, but his mind's on other things. [/b]"So...how much does that axe weigh?"[/b]
Grindar accepts the hug whole-heartedly while watching Bell, and follows the fey back into the corridor when she returns. Grindar -- Highlight to display spoiler: {As he receives the hug, Grindar realizes that the woman hugging him is hollow -- she has no back. As she holds him, the woman says something in a language Grindar does not know. He feels more confident afterward. Grindar has a +2 luck bonus on all saving throws and attack rolls until further notice.}
Caelwyn accepts the sling-stone-sized rock, feeling utterly bemused at what is happening. "Not quite sure what this is all about, but something tells me we should be ready for trouble..."[b] He prepares his trident and shield for action. Caelwyn -- Highlight to display spoiler: {The little man who gives Caelwyn the stone apologizes for not having anything else that might be of use. If thrown or slung, the stone will grow in size before hitting its target and does 2d6+4 damage (plus strength bonus).}
[b]"What's this clover leaf for?" 'Lil asks as it's pressed into her hand. She looks around. "We supposed to be headin' back into that fey tunnel too?" 'Lil's super confused about all this. 'Lil -- Highlight to display spoiler: {"Doughty says do what we can to help. This is what I can. We don't fight well, prefer to confuse enemies. With this you will have good luck. But first, I think, we run." 'Lil gains a +4 bonue to her next three saving throws, her next three attack rolls, and her next three skill checks.}
Bigby has a pouch thrust upon him by what could be Bell's sister. Bigby -- Highlight to display spoiler: {The little woman explains that this is a pouch of pixie dust. If Bigby puts it on an arrow or crossbow bolt, the creature struck by the arrow will probably forget what it was doing. It takes a standard action to put dust on the arrow/bolt, which much be fired in the following round for the magic to work. There is enough dust for a dozen uses. The dust will disappear in a day or two if not used.}
Sol is handed a feather on a short string. Sol -- Highlight to display spoiler: {The little grasshopper-man who gives Sol the feather tells him that it will allow him to vanish from one spot and appear in another, but will only work one time. He appears up to 30' from where he vanished, and may use the magic as a free action.}
. . . Amid sudden howls of fury, Bell flies through the grass and into the now-open fae corridor, carrying a glowing flower as big as she is. As the giant prepares to attack whatever may follow, the view disappears. The other fey creatures begin streaming into the corridor themselves as quickly as they can. From the other side of the grasses there is now the sound of pursuit, but the party makes it into the fey corridor before anything comes into view. Ahead of the party, a little sprite perches on Biel's head, looking back and talking to the others. Sol: Highlight to display spoiler: {The sprite is telling his fellows that the creatures are following them, although he'd not sure that the creatures are in the fae corridor. The group discusses illusions to lure the creatures off, and a couple of times Sol has to tell his friends to veer left or right while the illusions do something else, but the creatures keep up. The fey decide that as long as they have the flower, they aren't going to shake these things. The sprite reports that the creatures must have gotten into the corridor, because they are keeping up. Sol also learns that no one has seen Agatha or Cronk }
As the troop runs, Sol occasionally directs the rest of the party to keep one direction or the other. After he does this, the party sees themselves and the rest of the troop heading some other way, only to find after a moment that they've managed to stay with the troop after all. It gets confusing, but stops after a while. The party has no time to look back as this occurs.
Howls continue to pursue them.
Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 20, HP 32/32 Llew AC 15/14/11 CMD 15 HP 17 d20+9=27 ; Tuesday February 4th, 2020 5:55:27 AM
With Bwyell in hand, Grindar keeps running but stays towards the back of the party along side Caelwyn. He is ready to turn and face whatever seems to be chasing them if needed.
Perception 27
BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 Tuesday February 4th, 2020 3:32:49 PM
"thanks." Bigby puts the pouch away and continues on.
'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 18/12/16 - CMD 17 Tuesday February 4th, 2020 4:45:02 PM
'Lil tucks the clover behind her ear, glad to have a bit o' luck on her side during all this hubbub. She runs along with the rest of her dudes, staying just ahead of Grindar and Caelwyn. She's ready to turn and fight should the need arise, but she's so far outta her element that she ain't makin' that call without good reason. For now, she books it.
Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour Tuesday February 4th, 2020 5:07:09 PM
Sol smiles a wide smile when he receives the feather.
"Thank you, kindly."
As Sol guides the others he tries to keep them in a tight group, avoiding the edges of the corridor wherever possible.
"We must keep moving, lest these beasts catch up with us!"
Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 40/40; CMD: 15 d20+2=4 ; Tuesday February 4th, 2020 10:16:51 PM
Caelwyn is glad to receive the rock, as it may prove useful. He stays with Grindar toward the back of the group, ready to defend the rear of the party if necessary.
Perception 4
Emptying of pockets
DM Steve -- at the short grass Tuesday February 4th, 2020 11:37:39 PM
. . . Howls continue to pursue them.
The party is running near the back of the fey troop. With Bwyell in hand, Grindar keeps running but stays towards the back of the party along side Caelwyn. Grindar is ready to turn and face whatever seems to be chasing them if needed. Caelwyn stays with Grindar toward the back of the group, ready to defend the rear of the party if necessary. Grindar -- Highlight to display spoiler: {Although Grindar has not turned to see them, which would mean slowing, he estimates that the party is in a near-stampede situation again.}
'Lil runs along with the rest of her dudes, staying just ahead of Grindar and Caelwyn. She's ready to turn and fight should the need arise, but she's so far outta her element that she ain't makin' that call without good reason. For now, she books it.
Bigby continues on.
As Sol guides the others he tries to keep them in a tight group, avoiding the edges of the corridor wherever possible. "We must keep moving, lest these beasts catch up with us!"
The path the group is travelling begins to show a patchy, fog-like appearance. Sol -- Highlight to display spoiler: {From his understanding of Sylvan, Sol realizes that the other fey are talking about the diddles becoming anxious, and how it's going to affect their control of the corridor. Before Sol voices a warning, however, Biel does.} Biel yells, "Prepare for battle!" Creatures are slipping through the "fog", moving from patch to patch, newly appearing, or disappearing. It's late now to be outrunning the creatures, they're around the troop of fey and the party. There is little in the way of fighting, though -- just running. The diddle's humming goes out of tune, and the party finds themselves dumped back into the Wold once again. They are better prepared for it this time.
'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 18/12/16 - CMD 17 d20+8=19 ; d8+3=8 ; d20+8=25 ; d20+8=13 ; d20+6=23 ; d8+3=4 ; d8+3=7 ; d8+3=5 ; Wednesday February 5th, 2020 10:59:24 AM "On your flank, Cae!" calls out 'Lil as a mutant appears right behind her paladin dude. She strikes out at Maya, skewering the thing (hopefully!).
Hit AC 20 for 8 damage.
She moves up between her dudes, prepared to stab any mutant what tries to eat'em.
AoO w/ combat reflexes & 10' reach:
Hit AC 26 for 4 damage Hit AC 14 for 7 damage Hit AC 23 for 5 damage
BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 d20+6=18 ; d2+3=5 ; d20+4=17 ; d6+1=5 ; d20+4=14 ; Wednesday February 5th, 2020 1:41:55 PM
Bigby and Wolfgang will ready an attack for anything that comes near him and Sol. 18 att, 5 dmg, wolfgang bite 17, 5 dmg, 14 trip roll.
Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 20, HP 32/32 Llew AC 15/14/11 CMD 15 HP 17 d20+10=19 ; d8=8 ; Wednesday February 5th, 2020 5:41:23 PM
Worried that this may become another stampede, Grindar yells out, "We need to protect our Fey friends" He than steps forward and attacks a mutant with a two handed attack.
Hits AC 19 for 8+7=15 slashing damage
Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 40/40; CMD: 15 d20+8=18 ; d8+3=6 ; Wednesday February 5th, 2020 9:30:23 PM
"By Domi!" Caelwyn is taken aback by the sudden appearance of the mutant directly next to him. He immediately stabs at it with his trident, eager to move on once he has dispatched it.
Attack 18, Damage 6
DM Steve -- at the short grass 2d4=6 ; d20=15 ; d20+2=10 ; d20+5=6 ; d20+5=20 ; d20+5=17 ; d20+5=13 ; d6+1=5 ; Thursday February 6th, 2020 12:01:33 AM "On your flank, Cae!" calls out 'Lil as a mutant appears right behind her paladin dude. She strikes out at Maya, skewering the thing. She moves up between her dudes, prepared to stab any mutant what tries to eat'em. As the mutants rush in, she wounds two more.
Bigby and Wolfgang will ready an attack for anything that comes near him and Sol. Each of them successfully strikes the same mutant, wounding it.
Worried that this may become another stampede, Grindar yells out, "We need to protect our Fey friends!" He then steps forward and attacks a mutant with a two handed attack, disabling it.
"By Domi!" Caelwyn is taken aback by the sudden appearance of the mutant directly next to him. He immediately stabs at it with his trident, eager to move on once he has dispatched it.
Heading Grindar's words, Sol does his best to defend himself (total defense, +4 to AC).
It is indeed another stampede, and each of the party members takes 6 damage (fortitude save + AC vs DC:30 for half damage; this also affects the animals). Aside from the wounded, the mutants run past the party. (Don't worry, it looks lihe there are plenty more coming.) Other than the one that Grindar saved -- a surprisingly aggressive little man less than a foot tall -- the fey of all sizes have disappeared into the grasses.
Although wounded, Biel casts a spell, causing the grasses the mutants are running through to grow incredibly dense. "That will slow them considerably. Enough, at any rate, that they won't be able to trample us sheerly by numbers."
The little man pokes one of the mutants with his little sword, without obvious affect.
The mutants fight back in their various ways. Bigby dodges a bludgeoning tail. Caelwyn is bitten (for 5 points) by a creature that now seems to be mostly mouth. One that 'Lil hit finds Grindar closer, but misses him with its claw -- one claw that is suddenly bigger than its others. The big one grows a whip-like limb from its back to attack 'Lil, but seems not to have mastered it's use yet. The one that Grindar struck moves away, managing only five feet of travel despite growing extra legs to help make the journey.
Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour d20+3=12 ; d3=1 ; d3=3 ; Thursday February 6th, 2020 5:08:16 AM
Sol takes a five foot step back to O33, then cast's Ray of Frost at the mutant next to Bigby (12 to hit Touch AC for 1 damage)
"Why can we not get a simple break to recover! I do hope our entire time here in the Sargrass will be fraught with such dangers!"
'Lil - (Carl) - 33/36 HP - AC 18/12/16 - CMD 17 d20+23=34 ; d20+6=21 ; d20+6=13 ; d20+6=15 ; d20+6=12 ; d8+3=7 ; d8+3=4 ; Thursday February 6th, 2020 11:29:52 AM
Fort save 36 - pass (forgot the clover)
"Everybody slowly move this way," says 'Lil, motioning north. "Let'em keep movin' up towards us!"
OOC: With reach and combat reflexes, 'Lil gets to stab critters with 5' reach a lot if we keep'em moving.
She takes her own advice, taking a 5' step north before continuing to stab the mutant by Caelwyn.
Move: 5' step north Standard: Attack Q33 - Hit AC 21 for 7 damage
AoO + Combat reflexes w/ 10' reach: Hit AC 13 - miss Hit AC 15 for 4 damage Hit AC 12 - miss
BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 d20+7=26 ; d2+3=4 ; d20+7=25 ; d2+3=5 ; d20+4=15 ; d6+1=5 ; d20+4=12 ; Thursday February 6th, 2020 12:14:13 PM
Bigby will claw 26, 4 dmg, and claw 25, 5 damage, while Wolgang will bite 15, 5dmg, trip roll 12, and they will 5' step north as 'Lil suggests.
Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 20, HP 26/32 Llew AC 15/14/11 CMD 15 HP 17 d20+23=25 ; d20+8=19 ; d20+8=22 ; d8+4=9 ; d8+4=8 ; Thursday February 6th, 2020 5:58:05 PM
Grindar takes a 5 foot step to get closer to LIl and the others, while trying to keep himself between the little fey guy and the majority of the mutants. he goes full round attack on the regular mutant next to him, though he will direct his off hand towards the $ mutant if the regular one drops on the first hit.
main hand Hits AC 19 for 9 slashing damage
off hand Hits AC 22 for 8 slashing damage
Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 40/40; CMD: 15 d20+8=12 ; d8+3=6 ; Thursday February 6th, 2020 9:27:13 PM
Caelwyn realizes that he and Lil are about to be charged by a rather large mutant, and concentrates his attacks on the nearest normal mutant, trying to finish it off quickly. He steps forward and attempts to stab it with his trident.
Attack 12, Damage 6
Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 39/44; CMD: 15 Thursday February 6th, 2020 9:27:49 PM
OOC: Caelwyn HP and header update
BigbyWolf ( Michael) 28/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 21/27 -AC 17 d20+8=18 ; Thursday February 6th, 2020 10:36:55 PM
fort 18.
Sol takes a step, then casts Ray of Frost at the mutant next to Bigby. The ray seems to have no effect. "Why can we not get a simple break to recover! I do hope our entire time here in the Sargrass will be fraught with such dangers!"
"Everybody slowly move this way," says 'Lil, motioning north. "Let'em keep movin' up towards us!" 'Lil proposes a strategy that plays to her strengths. She is unable to take her own advice and step north, however, because Sol is where she wanted to be. She continues to stab the mutant by Caelwyn, killing it.
Bigby, with his claws, and Wolgang with his bite tear down the mutant they were facing.
Grindar steps closer to LIl and the others, while trying to keep himself between the little fey guy and the majority of the mutants. He goes full round attack on the regular mutant next to him, killing it in two blows.
Caelwyn realizes that he and Lil are about to be charged by a rather large mutant, and concentrates his attacks on the nearest normal mutant, trying to finish it off quickly. He steps forward and attempts to stab it with his trident. Unfortunately, he is not successful.
A handful of mutants squeeze out of the thick grass, while more take their place at its edge. Most of these mutants continue on, too few in number to stampede. One shows an interest in the little fey man and receives an ineffective jab from Maya for its curiosity. It attacks the fey, which easily eludes the mutant. Deciding that this time it would be better to be discreet, the fey joins Grindar. Meanwhile, the large mutant grows a second mouth and attacks. It misses both Caelwyn and Grindar with its bites, but lashes 'Lil with its whip (4 damage). The mutant Grindar had previously injured starts digging into the ground, making slow headway away from the fight. Biel pulls a potion out of his gear.
Mutants, AC 15: Q33 Dmg - dead O36 Dmg - dead P36/37 Dmg - 5 N31 Dmg - dead O37 Dmg - 15 (moved away) M35 Dmg - 0
'Lil - (Carl) - 29/36 HP - AC 18/12/16 - CMD 17 d20+6=15 ; d8+3=7 ; d20+6=15 ; d20+6=20 ; d20+6=8 ; d8+3=10 ; d8+3=6 ; Friday February 7th, 2020 10:30:21 AM
'Lil winces as the big mutant's tail slices into her arm. "Oye. You're gonna regret that, ya big dummy."
She makes good on the threat, piercing the thing with Maya.
Hit AC 15 for 7 damage.
She takes a 5' step and continues suggesting her dudes do the same. "Come on, folks! Make'em follow us."
Two AoO hit:
Hit AC 15 for 10 damage Hit AC 20 for 6 damage Last AoO misses
BigbyWolf ( Michael) 28/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 21/27 -AC 17 d20+7=10 ; d20+4=5 ; d20+10=29 ; Friday February 7th, 2020 1:03:06 PM
Bigby will attack any of those mutants close by (ooc can't tell on map anymore), and continue to 5' step in the direction 'Lil suggests. att 10, wolfgang 5. "Argh, this is getting frustrating." 29 for mounted combat to dodge attack against Bigby.
Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour d20+3=12 ; d3=2 ; Friday February 7th, 2020 5:45:38 PM
Sol attempts an Acid Splash instead ((12 vs Touch AC, 2 damage on hit))
"I am not certain my Arcane power will work here... at least not as well as I would like..."
Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 20, HP 26/32 Llew AC 15/14/11 CMD 15 HP 17 d20+8=12 ; d20+8=15 ; d8+4=6 ; Friday February 7th, 2020 8:32:57 PM
Grindar goes for another full round attack against the big mutant.
Main hand hits AC 12 Miss
Off hand Hits AC 15 for 6 damage
Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 39/44; CMD: 15 d20+8=27 ; d8+3=4 ; Friday February 7th, 2020 9:27:30 PM
Caelwyn stabs another mutant while taking a five foot step back.
'Lil winces as the big mutant's tail slices into her arm. "Oye. You're gonna regret that, ya big dummy." She makes good on the threat, piercing the thing with Maya. She takes a step back and continues suggesting her dudes do the same. "Come on, folks! Make'em follow us."
Bigby looks for an enemy to attack, but is not close to any mutants. He and Wolfgang wait for the party to close with them, as they are in the direction 'Lil is encouraging the others to go. (OOC: Sorry for forgetting to post the map link.) Bigby is in a position to see Biel is also fighting his own battle, wielding a shortspear and using his shield. Biel does not seem to need help.
Sol attempts an Acid Splash against the large mutant. He is rewarded with the sight of the mutant's skin thickening and growing scaly. He may have damaged it first. "I am not certain my Arcane power will work here... at least not as well as I would like..."
Grindar goes for another full round attack against the big mutant. He hits it from an unexpected angle. ` Caelwyn stabs the big mutant while taking a five foot step back.
The mutant that 'Lil tried to attack moments ago closes with Sol, giving 'Lil a chance to poke at it again. Maya jabs into it. Sol nimbly dodges it's tail. The mutant grows a spiky armor after being stabbed.
The large mutant, meanwhile, seems to be changing less as time goes on. Grindar is facing a sort of long-legged, two-headed crocodile with a whip growing out of its back. Both heads lunge for Grindar, the whip targets Caelwyn. Grindar feels one savage bite (4 HP damage).
A number of smaller mutants escape the thickened grasses without sticking around, but one large mutant slithers out making a bee-line for Grindar. It seems rather snake-like, and tries to lash him with its long tongue, but does not come close.
Perception DC:18 Highlight to display spoiler: {A couple of fey creatures appear at the edge of the thickened grass (where the @ is on the map).}
Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 20, HP 22/32 Llew AC 15/14/11 CMD 15 HP 17 d20+11=25 ; d20+8=12 ; d20+8=10 ; Sunday February 9th, 2020 5:00:19 PM
Grindar sees the Fey creatures appear, and his heart sinks as he is afraid they may be in danger. (perception 25) Unable to come to the aid of the new arrivals, Grindar preforms another full round attack against the large mutant, missing twice, and then takes a five foot step back encouraging the little fey dude to follow him.
Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 39/44; CMD: 15 d20+8=26 ; d8+3=4 ; Sunday February 9th, 2020 9:05:55 PM
Caelwyn takes a five foot step back, trying to keep up with the others. He takes another stab at the closest mutant. "Where are we aiming to go, here? Does anyone have a plan or a destination?"
Attack, 26 - Damage, 4
'Lil - (Carl) - 29/36 HP - AC 18/12/16 - CMD 17 d20+8=24 ; d20+6=7 ; d20+6=20 ; d20+6=16 ; d20+6=18 ; d8+3=8 ; d8+3=11 ; d8+3=8 ; Monday February 10th, 2020 11:10:02 AM
'Lil checks out them fey. Are they here to help, or just caught in the melee and need to be protected? She hopes it ain't the second. She's not even sure what the endgame here is.
She makes a stab at that mutant by Sol, but it's real sloppy. She turns red, but it ain't clear if it's anger or embarrassment. Probably both...
She steps up, making a 5' step in front of Sol. She prepares to stab any mutants what move up.
AoO w/ combat reflexes:
Hit AC 20 for 8 Hit AC 16 for 11 Hit AC 18 for 8
Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour d20+1=3 ; d20+3=9 ; Monday February 10th, 2020 5:51:37 PM
Sol takes a five foot step to the west to end up P33.
He then attempts another Ray of Frost, since the Acid Splash seemed to do something that didn't involve hurting it.
However, he misses, his shot going wide.
"I must get trained to be better at aiming this spells!"
BigbyWolf ( Michael) 28/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 21/27 -AC 17 d20+7=11 ; d20+4=9 ; Monday February 10th, 2020 7:57:37 PM
Bigby will attack the one next to Sol, if it's still there. 11 for claw from Bigby and 9 bite from Wolfgang. "Not our day Wolfgang."
Grindar sees the Fey creatures appear, and his heart sinks as he is afraid they may be in danger. Unable to come to the aid of the new arrivals, Grindar preforms another full round attack against the large mutant, missing twice, and then takes a five foot step back encouraging the little fey dude to follow him.
Caelwyn takes a five foot step back, trying to keep up with the others. At the moment, he is not engaged with a mutant. "Where are we aiming to go, here? Does anyone have a plan or a destination?"
'Lil checks out them fey. Are they here to help, or just caught in the melee and need to be protected? She hopes it ain't the second. She's not even sure what the endgame here is. She makes a stab at that mutant by Sol, but it's real sloppy. She turns red, but it ain't clear if it's anger or embarrassment. Probably both... She steps up in front of Sol, and prepares to stab any mutants what move up.
Sol takes a five foot step to the west (to P33). He then attempts another Ray of Frost, since the Acid Splash seemed to do something that didn't involve hurting it. However, he misses, his shot going wide. "I must get trained to be better at aiming this spells!"
Bigby moves up and attacks the mutant next to Sol. Both Bigby and Wolfgang miss, though. "Not our day Wolfgang." The spikes that were growing from the mutant's armored hide come close to piercing Bigby when he attacks, and do hurt Wolfgang (3 HP).
The two-headed crocodile thing follows Grindar and attempts to attack him again, and 'Lil as well. Grindar is bitten once (2 HP) and 'Lil takes a lash from its whip (3 HP). The fresh, snaky mutant attacks Grindar, but misses. In the process, 'Lil takes the opportunity to stab at it, getting a solid hit. After the party reshuffling, the mutant that had been attacking Sol is facing Bigby and 'Lil. It attacks 'Lil, missing with its tail.
The fey at the edge of the thickened grass appear to be Agatha, carrying a small ball of reddish fur. Agatha is injured, but not badly. She is clearly trying to protect the other creature from the mutants around her. As she waits at the edge of Biel's spell effect, two mutants move to block her path. The other mutants that escape from Biel's spell's area keep running to the north, not bothering the party.
Biel appears to have heard what 'Lil and Caelwyn have said, because he answers, "The endgame? I thought you had something in mind. We were protecting the fey carrying the flower from the mutants following them. We have given them time to get to safety by now or at least a brief reprieve. . . I would hope. I fear the mutants are still attracted to the flower and will continue to follow it."
Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 20, HP 22/32 Llew AC 15/14/11 CMD 15 HP 17 d20+8=27 ; d20+8=24 ; d8+4=12 ; d8+4=6 ; Tuesday February 11th, 2020 5:47:51 AM
Seeing no way to get there himself, Grindar yells to his friends, ”Can anyone go to Agatha’s aid, I’m pinned down at the moment!” he continues to full round attack the large mutants threatening him, starting with the one he has already been fighting.
Main hand 27 for 12 damage
Off hand 24 for 6 damage
'Lil - (Carl) - 26/36 HP - AC 18/12/16 - CMD 17 d20+6=25 ; d8+3=10 ; Tuesday February 11th, 2020 11:51:16 AM
Ouch! 'Lil's gettin' real sick'a being whipped. She sees that big mutant over by Caewlyn is hurt pretty bad, so she stabs it. It's a real good shot, sinking deep into the mutant.
Hit AC 25 for 10 damage.
"Keep moving, guys. We can't just sit here and kill these things all day." She's about to take her own advice, but Grindar ain't moving. Bother. She can't just leave him there to get beat on by himself. She tries to motion to Sol to move north, at least a bit, then tries to take his place. If he don't move, she stays put too.
Move: 5' step east it Sol moves.
Not rolling AoO since I don't see any way one would happen this round.
BigbyWolf ( Michael) 28/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 21/27 -AC 17 d20+7=23 ; d20+4=24 ; d2+3=4 ; d6+1=6 ; Tuesday February 11th, 2020 4:13:37 PM
claw from bigby att 23, 4 dmg, and bite from wolfgang att 24, 6 dmg. and continue moving in the direction 'Lil suggests.
Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour Tuesday February 11th, 2020 6:35:53 PM
Sol grabs onto Lil's idea and moves North, as instructed, moving to P29, but before he moves, he casts Bulls Strength on Grindar.
"Hopefully this extra strength will help."
Once he's moved, he immediately tries to distract the mutants by making loud noises and calling them over to him.
Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 39/44; CMD: 15 d20+8=17 ; d8+3=10 ; Tuesday February 11th, 2020 9:21:35 PM
Caelwyn tries to keep up with everyone else, stabbing the nearest mutant again. "If we can kill these two, we may be able to get free for a bit!"
Attack 17, Damage 10
DM Steve -- facing mutants d20+5=9 ; d20+5=11 ; d20+5=13 ; Tuesday February 11th, 2020 11:36:59 PM
Seeing no way to get there himself, Grindar yells to his friends, ”Can anyone go to Agatha’s aid, I’m pinned down at the moment!” He continues to full round attack the large mutants threatening him, starting with the one he has already been fighting.
Ouch! 'Lil's gettin' real sick'a being whipped. She sees that big mutant over by Caewlyn is hurt pretty bad, so she stabs it. It's a real good shot, sinking deep into the mutant. "Keep moving, guys. We can't just sit here and kill these things all day." She's about to take her own advice, but Grindar ain't moving. Bother. She can't just leave him there to get beat on by himself. She tries to motion to Sol to move north, at least a bit, then takes his place.
Bigby and Walfgang attack the mutant that next to them. In the process, they each manage to avoid the spikes that grow all over the thing. They continue moving in the direction 'Lil suggests.
Sol grabs onto Lil's idea and moves North, as instructed, but before he moves, he casts Bulls Strength on Grindar. "Hopefully this extra strength will help." Once he's moved, he immediately tries to distract the mutants by making loud noises and calling them over to him.
Caelwyn tries to keep up with everyone else, stabbing the nearest mutant again. "If we can kill these two, we may be able to get free for a bit!"
The two-headed crocodile goes down in a pile of gore after taking multiple hits, and the snake takes a slash from Grindar. Bigby and Wolfgang kill the smaller mutant they were fighting.
Only the large mutant attacking Grindar is left, and it fails in its attempt to bite him. As the party watches, its skin becomes knobbier. Without moving closer, Grindar is the only one in position to melee with the creature.
From the north comes a sound like wind moving through the grass, but the party sees no sign of wind. It is answered by a frustrated-sounding howl from the distant south. Another scattering or mutants squeezes through Biel's spell effect, but they do not stick around to fight. In the nearer south, the party can no longer see Agatha -- she and the mutants she is facing are covered in a mass of sticky fibers. Biel continues to fight in the near north.
Mutants: P35/36 AC: 17, Dmg - dead N33 AC: 15, Dmg - dead N35/36 AC: 15, Dmg - 14
Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 20, HP 22/32 Llew AC 15/14/11 CMD 15 HP 17 d20+10=18 ; d20+10=28 ; d8+6=14 ; d8+6=13 ; Wednesday February 12th, 2020 5:49:44 AM
Feeling the boast of strength from Sol's spell, Grindar lets out a roar as he attempts to drop the final large mutant. Against his better judgment, he will take a 5ft step back after the attack, since that seems to be the consensus among his friends, though he is worried for Agatha.
Main hand 18 for 14 damage
Off hand 28 for 13 damage
bull's strength 23/24 (1 minute per level equals 24 rounds at level 4)
'Lil - (Carl) - 26/36 HP - AC 18/12/16 - CMD 17 d20+6=15 ; d8+3=8 ; d20+6=21 ; d20+6=18 ; d20+6=18 ; d8+3=8 ; d8+3=11 ; d8+3=6 ; Wednesday February 12th, 2020 11:59:10 AM
Grindar lands two solid hits on the last mutant. She hopes that's enough to drop it.
'Lil heads south towards Agatha. Maya will let her stab mutants through the web, giving Agatha a way out. At least that's what she hopes...
***
Move: P36 Standard: Attack mutant at P38. Hit AC 15 for 8 damage.
AoO/Combat reflexes w/ 10' reach:
Hit AC 21 for 8 Hit AC 18 for 11 Hit AC 18 for 6
BigbyWolf ( Michael) 28/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 18/27 -AC 17 d20+7=15 ; d20+7=27 ; d20+7=12 ; d2+3=5 ; d2+3=5 ; d20+4=24 ; d6+1=7 ; d20+4=24 ; Wednesday February 12th, 2020 2:09:52 PM
Bigby's not sure which message to follow now, whether to move forward or to help Agatha. He decides to stick with Sol. "Together then." Bigby will attack anything that moves towards Sol or him and then continues the 5 step forward. 15, 27 (12 confirm crit), dmg 5, 5. Wolfgang attack 24, 7 dmg, 24 trip.
DM Steve -- facing mutants Thursday February 13th, 2020 12:05:50 AM
Feeling the boost of strength from Sol's spell, Grindar lets out a roar as he attempts to drop the final large mutant. He lands two devastating blows with Bwyell. He takes a step to the north after the attack, since that seems to be the consensus among his friends, though he is worried for Agatha.
Grindar lands two solid hits on the last mutant. 'Lil hopes that's enough to drop it. She heads south towards Agatha. Maya will let her stab mutants through the web, giving Agatha a way out. At least that's what she hopes... 'Lil jabs one of the mutants handily as it's trapped in the webs.
Bigby's not sure which message to follow now, whether to move forward or to help Agatha. He decides to stick with Sol. "Together then." Bigby readies to attack anything that moves towards Sol or him, which ends up being one of several mutants that squeeze out of Biel's spell effect this round. Together Bigby and Wolfgang take the creature out before it has a chance to fight back.
Sol and Caelwyn take the opportunity to catch their breath.
Agatha emerges from the webs in which a number of mutants remain trapped, seemingly unaffected by them. She still carries the little furry dude. Biel has disappeared into the grasses to the north. The sound of a big wind still comes from the north, becoming more pronounced. The howls to the south are not getting louder.
Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour d20+3=19 ; d3=2 ; Thursday February 13th, 2020 4:04:04 AM
Sol stays where he is, and casts another Ray Of Frost at either of the mutants blocking their path to the north. ((19 to hit, 2 damage))
"I am out of arcane power now!" He calls. "I'm down to my very basic spells!"
Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 20, HP 22/32 Llew AC 15/14/11 CMD 15 HP 17 Thursday February 13th, 2020 5:23:23 AM
Grindar tells the little fey dude he should head up and stay with Bigby, he then heads down to back up Agatha's retreat. He is relieved to see her safe, but those weird wind noises have him unnerved.
Bull's Strength: 38/40
'Lil - (Carl) - 26/36 HP - AC 18/12/16 - CMD 17 d20+6=13 ; d20+6=14 ; d20+6=22 ; d20+6=16 ; d8=6 ; d8=1 ; Thursday February 13th, 2020 11:15:56 AM
"That don't sound good," 'Lil says to herself. With Agatha outta them webs, 'Lil takes a 5' step back to stand next to Agatha, then stabs the mutant at Q37. Maya gets caught a little in the webs, though.
"Go on," she says to Agatha. "I got'cher back."
5' step back Attack Q37 - Hit AC 13
AoO + Combat reflexes w/ 10 reach:
Hit AC 14, Miss Hit AC 22 for 9 damage Hit AC 16 for 4 damage
BigbyWolf ( Michael) 28/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 18/27 -AC 17 d20+7=26 ; d20+7=25 ; d2+3=5 ; d2+3=5 ; d20+4=16 ; d6+1=6 ; Thursday February 13th, 2020 2:11:08 PM
Bigby continues to attack anything coming their way including sol. 26, 25, 5, 5 dmg. Wolfgang: 16, 6 dmg. Bigby continues to 5' step forward. "Me too Sol, let's just make it through this day."
Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 39/44; CMD: 15 Thursday February 13th, 2020 10:31:56 PM
Caelwyn joins in with the others, moving steadily backward with his shield up to cover Agatha's retreat. "Let's just focus on getting out of this for now." He offers a prayer to Domi to get them out of this new mess.
DM Steve -- facing mutants d20+5=22 ; d6=4 ; d20+9=17 ; Friday February 14th, 2020 12:22:00 AM Sol stays where he is, and casts another Ray Of Frost a mutant blocking their path to the north. He damages the creature. "I am out of arcane power now!" He calls. "I'm down to my very basic spells!"
Grindar tells the little fey dude he should head up and stay with Bigby, he then heads down to back up Agatha's retreat. He is relieved to see her safe, but those weird wind noises have him unnerved.
"That don't sound good," 'Lil says to herself. With Agatha outta them webs, 'Lil takes a 5' step back to stand next to Agatha, then stabs at the nearest mutant. Maya gets caught a little in the webs, though. "Go on," she says to Agatha. "I got'cher back."
Bigby continues to attack anything coming their way. Bigby and Wolfgang manage to take down a second mutant before it even has a chance to attack them. "Me too Sol, let's just make it through this day."
Caelwyn joins in with the others, moving steadily backward with his shield up to cover Agatha's retreat. "Let's just focus on getting out of this for now." He offers a prayer to Domi to get them out of this new mess.
The mutant that Sol attacked moves down to Sol and bites back. (Sol takes 4 HP damage) The mutants that 'Lil has poked at bulk up and rip free of the webs, but only one has a chance to close with her. It attempts to ram her, barely missing. Agatha slowly continues north; the little fey who was hanging around Grindar joins her as she gets close.
The "wind" continues. Where a real wind would come with gusts and silences, this is a steady, almost uniform, sound. Bigby and Sol, being further north, see that the grass is bending -- almost flattening -- over there.
Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 20, HP 22/32 Llew AC 15/14/11 CMD 15 HP 17 d20+12=14 ; Friday February 14th, 2020 5:32:22 AM
Grindar hurries over to Lil's side and attacks the mutant with a two-handed swing, just missing the thing. "I'm beginning to feel like someone out there hates us!", Grindar exclaims, "They just keep coming, and what's up with those winds?"
'Lil - (Carl) - 26/36 HP - AC 18/12/16 - CMD 17 d20+6=10 ; d20+6=11 ; d20+6=18 ; d8+3=7 ; d20+6=23 ; d8+3=5 ; Friday February 14th, 2020 10:55:06 AM
'Lil looks at all them mutants. She's pretty sure that ain't a wind up there. Honestly, she ain't sure what to do other than hope these fey have a plan and just need these mutants to get stabbed while they do it.
She puts a hand on Grindar's shoulder as she takes a step back. "Don't worry dude. I ain't leaving." She does take a 5' step back, however, before tryin'a stab that mutant in front of him. She don't hit it, but boy she tries.
She gets ready to capitalize on any openings...
Move: 5' step Standard: Hit AC 10
AoO:
Hit AC 11 Hit AC 18 for 7 Hit AC 23 for 5
BigbyWolf ( Michael) 28/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 18/27 -AC 17 d20+7=24 ; d2+3=5 ; d20+4=7 ; d20+10=29 ; Friday February 14th, 2020 4:41:36 PM
Bigby moves over to attack the creature next to Sol. 24 att, 5 dmg. Wolfgang bites, 7, and misses. "Come on we gotta keep moving forward. The grass is flattening so looks like we should be able to get through." 29 knowledge nature as to why the grass is bending.
Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour d20+3=14 ; d3=3 ; Saturday February 15th, 2020 6:06:36 PM
Sol does as Bigby instructs and moves forwards, flinging out another ray of frost at the creatures ahead of him. (14 to hit, 3 damage)
"If we are going to move we should not dally, we must keep pushing forwards."
DM Steve -- facing mutants d20+5=9 ; d20+9=14 ; d20+9=10 ; Sunday February 16th, 2020 4:01:35 PM Perception DC:10 Highlight to display spoiler: {A huge flock of not-quite-birds flies overhead, wheeling above the party but heading to the north, casting a huge moving shadow on the grasses below. Among the sounds of wind in the grasses you can pick out others. It would be impossible to say that the mutants the party has been fighting have a specific sound to them, yet that is what is faint in the north, and much more The odd wind-like sound continues, and the bending grasses are getting closer.}
Rangers, druids, or perception DC:15 Highlight to display spoiler: {With the stampede earlier in the day and the to-and-fro since, the characters do not know where they are now. However, the sun’s position has changed and there are no mountains in the distance. That could mean the mountains are hidden by the plant growth within Biel's spell effect, or that the party came a long way through the fey corridors.}
Bigby and Sol Highlight to display spoiler: {Being closer to the bending grasses, Bigby and Sol have a better view of what it happening in the north. Between the stalks of the grasses in that direction, these two can tell that there is something beyond huge moving to the north. It is not fast, but it is most definitely moving. The bending grass is somewhat closer to the party than the distant motion.}
Grindar hurries over to Lil's side and attacks the mutant with a two-handed swing, just missing the thing. "I'm beginning to feel like someone out there hates us! They just keep coming, and what's up with those winds?"
'Lil looks at all them mutants. She's pretty sure that ain't a wind up there. Honestly, she ain't sure what to do other than hope these fey have a plan and just need these mutants to get stabbed while they do it. She puts a hand on Grindar's shoulder as she takes a step back. "Don't worry dude. I ain't leaving." She does take a 5' step back, however, before tryin'a stab that mutant in front of him. She don't hit it, but boy she tries.
Bigby moves over to attack the creature next to Sol. 24 att, 5 dmg. "Come on we gotta keep moving forward. The grass is flattening so looks like we should be able to get through."Bigby Highlight to display spoiler: {Bigby does not know of anything natural that would cause this, but can speculate that it might be related to the repulsion that druid trees and Sargrass have.}
Sol does as Bigby instructs and moves forwards, flinging out another ray of frost at the creatures ahead of him. The ray does not seem to damage it greatly, but definitely hurts it. "If we are going to move we should not dally, we must keep pushing forwards."
Caelwyn keeps guarding Agatha and the other fey.
The mutant near him attacks Bigby, but seems confused having three potential targets and misses its attack. One of the muscular mutants attacks Grindar, trying to slam him. The other moves up to attack 'Lil, whose attack of opportunity misses. Neither of these mutants hits, however. A handful of other mutants get through the thickened grass and head towards the north, ignoring the party.
Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 39/44; CMD: 15 d20+2=13 ; d20+8=10 ; d8+3=11 ; Sunday February 16th, 2020 10:41:24 PM
Caelwyn decides that Sol and Bigby can take the one mutant in front of them, and turns back to help Lil and Grindar. He charges at the mutant near Lil, stabbing at it. "I don't like the sound of whatever is coming...Let's keep moving!"
Attack 10, Damage 11
Perception 13
'Lil - (Carl) - 26/36 HP - AC 18/12/16 - CMD 17 d20+8=9 ; d20+8=17 ; d20+6=19 ; d8+3=9 ; d20+6=24 ; d8+3=9 ; Monday February 17th, 2020 10:27:14 AM
Perception 9: fail Perception 17: Pass
"Yea, but keep movin' where? We got bad sounds up there, and unpassable growth down there." She takes a step back before stabbin' at the mutant by Grindar.
Attack AB35 - Hit AC 19 for 9 damage.
AoO: Hit AC 24 for 9 damage
BigbyWolf ( Michael) 28/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 18/27 -AC 17 d20+7=13 ; d20+7=20 ; d2+3=4 ; d20+4=12 ; d20+10=29 ; Monday February 17th, 2020 3:54:59 PM
claw claw, 13, 20 4 dmg, wolfgang bite to the mutant near them. If it dies, 5 step forward. "Ok, how does that human saying go...something something rock and hard place. Something big is heading our way, but honestly, it may still be the best way to go. Biel is ahead as well. perception 29.
Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour d20+1=17 ; d20+1=14 ; d20+3=14 ; d3=2 ; Monday February 17th, 2020 5:35:22 PM
Sol attempts another Ray of Frost at the creature, but has little else he can do.
"I would be wary something wicked this way comes! And it is rather on the large side!"
Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 20, HP 22/32 Llew AC 15/14/11 CMD 15 HP 17 d20+10=25 ; d20+10=22 ; d20+10=19 ; d8+6=12 ; d8+6=9 ; Monday February 17th, 2020 6:16:31 PM "Keep your eyes open friends, we have company overhead!", Grindar shares as he attempts a full round attack on the mutant attacking him. after connecting with both hits, he takes a 5ft step back and says, "Where, in the name of Pantheon, are we, we must have traveled quite a ways in the fey corridor!"
Main hand 22 for 12 damage
Off hand 19 for 9 damage
DM Steve -- facing mutants Monday February 17th, 2020 10:43:06 PM
Caelwyn decides that Sol and Bigby can take the one mutant in front of them, and turns back to help Lil and Grindar. He charges at the mutant near Lil, stabbing at it unsuccessfully. "I don't like the sound of whatever is coming...Let's keep moving!"
'Lil takes a step back before stabbin' at the mutant by Grindar and killing it. "Yea, but keep movin' where? We got bad sounds up there, and unpassable growth down there."
Bigby and Wolfgang attack the mutant near them. Their attacks leave it badly hurt. "Ok, how does that human saying go...something something rock and hard place. Something big is heading our way, but honestly, it may still be the best way to go. Biel is ahead as well."
Sol attempts another Ray of Frost at the creature, but has little else he can do. He surprises himself by killing it. "I would be wary something wicked this way comes! And it is rather on the large side!"
"Keep your eyes open friends, we have company overhead!", Grindar shares as he takes a step and shifts targets to the mutant fighting Caelwyn, since his intended target is down. After connecting with both hits, he says, "Where, in the name of Pantheon, are we, we must have traveled quite a ways in the fey corridor!" His fresh opponent is down.
Although some more mutants manage to escape from the heavily grown grasses, they head north without stopping to investigate the party. This leaves no mutants attacking at the moment, although there are some within reach if the party decides to carry the fight to them. The bending grasses are getting closer to the party.
Bigby and Sol Highlight to display spoiler: {Being closer to the bending grasses, Bigby and Sol have a better view of what it happening in the north. The big things moving to the north seem to be trees. They are whipping around as if in a wind storm.}
Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 39/44; CMD: 15 Monday February 17th, 2020 11:23:37 PM
Caelwyn glances back toward the bending grasses. "Best back up a bit and stay together, I don't like the look of this...we should try to follow Biel and stay together if we can!" He moves in that direction, ready to fight at a moment's notice.
Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 20, HP 22/32 Llew AC 15/14/11 CMD 15 HP 17 Tuesday February 18th, 2020 5:38:07 AM
Seeing no threat from the current mutants, Grindar makes a double move action and says, "I'm not sure where we are or what our current objective is, but let's follow Biel he seems to have some idea as to what to do, and since, at least for the moment, the mutants aren't attacking, so now may be a good time to make up some distance".
'Lil - (Carl) - 26/36 HP - AC 18/12/16 - CMD 17 Tuesday February 18th, 2020 10:41:58 AM
Honestly, that plan sounds as good as any. She smoothly stows Maya and takes off into a run after Biel. She makes absolute sure she's not leaving anyone behind, though.
BigbyWolf ( Michael) 28/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 18/27 -AC 17 Tuesday February 18th, 2020 11:57:18 AM
Bigby keeps moving forward and yells back, "so big trees are whipping around in a storm ahead that's bending the grass ahead of us. So, maybe that's a good thing...maybe...it's...a...good thing?"
Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour Tuesday February 18th, 2020 6:59:33 PM
Sol nods.
"At least it is a route we can take to get out of here hopefully. I would rather not get caught flat footed by the mutants again if at all possible."
Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 39/44; CMD: 15 Tuesday February 18th, 2020 8:43:22 PM
Caelwyn keeps up with the others as best he can.
DM Steve -- facing mutants Wednesday February 19th, 2020 12:14:51 AM
Caelwyn glances back toward the bending grasses. "Best back up a bit and stay together, I don't like the look of this...we should try to follow Biel and stay together if we can!" He moves in that direction, ready to fight at a moment's notice.
Seeing no threat from the current mutants, Grindar makes a double move action and says, "I'm not sure where we are or what our current objective is, but let's follow Biel he seems to have some idea as to what to do, and since, at least for the moment, the mutants aren't attacking, so now may be a good time to make up some distance".
Honestly, that plan sounds as good as any. 'Lil smoothly stows Maya and takes off into a run after Biel. She makes absolute sure she's not leaving anyone behind, though.
Bigby keeps moving forward and yells back, "so big trees are whipping around in a storm ahead that's bending the grass ahead of us. So, maybe that's a good thing...maybe...it's...a...good thing?"
Sol nods. "At least it is a route we can take to get out of here hopefully. I would rather not get caught flat footed by the mutants again if at all possible."
Caelwyn keeps up with the others as best he can.
The party gathers together at the boundary where the grass is bending. Not getting caught in the grass as it bends takes a little effort, but anyone who gets knocked down is unharmed and able to stand again quickly. Where the grass is already bent, it is easier to walk than it is among the tall stalks. And now that there is no grass obscuring the view, the party sees a battle in the distance. Mutants are fighting trees.
To the east and west, mutants are streaming out of the grasses to attack the trees that are to the north. It is only the dense growth in the area of Biel's spell that has been protecting the party from another stampede. Sixty or seventy feet to either side and the party would be in a stampede again. Here, there is an abrupt edge to the standing Sargrass. And the forest to the north . . . is moving south while battling with the mutants. Yes, it is clearly a forest on the move. It does not charge quickly, but the grass bends before it as if being driven by a storm.
The party sees Biel not far in the distance, talking to a tree that has broken away from the rest. He is pointing in their direction. The battle is occurring further north.
Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 20, HP 22/32 Llew AC 15/14/11 CMD 15 HP 17 Wednesday February 19th, 2020 5:41:17 AM "Onward and upward, I guess" Grindar says as he makes another double move. "I can honestly say I have never seen a forest fighting before, this is a new one, though it seems as though Biel is acquainted with that tree over there".
The Forest Walks
'Lil - (Carl) - 26/36 HP - AC 18/12/16 - CMD 17 Wednesday February 19th, 2020 10:09:18 AM
'Lil looks back at Caelwyn. "Come on, slow poke! Keep up!" She chases after Grindar, scoping out them trees as she runs. Are they mutant trees, or normal trees? She wonders what's going on up there. She's heard stories about treants, but a whole forest of them? Did Biel and his folk animate them?
BigbyWolf ( Michael) 28/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 18/27 -AC 17 Wednesday February 19th, 2020 3:26:53 PM
Bigby continues north. He's not sure what to make of any of it.
Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour Wednesday February 19th, 2020 7:04:07 PM
Sol moves to follow behind Lil and Grindar, but between them so they are flanking him.
"Do we have a plan for what to do next? Or are we just going to keep moving north?"
DM Steve -- facing mutants Wednesday February 19th, 2020 11:47:56 PM
As he continues to move north, Grindar says, "Onward and upward, I guess. I can honestly say I have never seen a forest fighting before, this is a new one, though it seems as though Biel is acquainted with that tree over there."
'Lil looks back at Caelwyn. "Come on, slow poke! Keep up!" She chases after Grindar, scoping out them trees as she runs. Are they mutant trees, or normal trees? She wonders what's going on up there. She's heard stories about treants, but a whole forest of them? Did Biel and his folk animate them?
Bigby continues north. He's not sure what to make of any of it.
Sol moves to follow behind Lil and Grindar, but between them so they are flanking him. "Do we have a plan for what to do next? Or are we just going to keep moving north?"
As far as 'Lil knows, these could be treants. Bigby thinks treants are smaller than many of the trees he sees. Whatever, these trees can walk, and they are cooperating with each other in battle in a way that the mutants haven't been.
If the party keeps moving north, they will enter an ongoing battle. The trees, aided by humans and fey, seem to have the upper hand -- but the mutants are replenished by a constant stream to the east and the west of the party. There are also some larger mutants in the mix. But some of the trees are colossal.
Agatha and the tree Biel was talking to approach each other.
Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 20, HP 22/32 Llew AC 15/14/11 CMD 15 HP 17 Thursday February 20th, 2020 5:49:37 AM
Grindar approaches the tree that Agatha and Biel are talking to. He does his best to be respectful, though he has no idea what is considered proper educate when talking to a tree. Not sure whither or not the tree will understand him, or if he would understand the tree, Grindar gives a polite bow and says, "My name is Grindar, son of Grindor, and these are my friends Lil, Sol, Bigby, and Caelwyn, we are clueless as to what is going on here, but if there is something we can do to help, please but say the word".
'Lil - (Carl) - 35/36 HP - AC 18/12/16 - CMD 17 d6=4 ; d6=5 ; Thursday February 20th, 2020 10:16:57 AM
'Lil squeezes past everyone and settles in the middle of folks as well she can. "Squeeze in if you're hurt, everyone. We're all friends here. Don't be shy."
Once everyone who wants it is in range, she channels positive energy, healing 9 HP.
BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 Thursday February 20th, 2020 5:14:25 PM
Bigby squeezes in for the healing.
Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour Thursday February 20th, 2020 6:59:31 PM
Sol squeezes in, but keeps shtum when Grindar starts speaking, not wanting to cramp his friends style.
DM Steve -- facing mutants Friday February 21st, 2020 12:19:11 AM
Grindar approaches the tree that Agatha and Biel are talking to. He does his best to be respectful, though he has no idea what is considered proper educate when talking to a tree. Not sure whither or not the tree will understand him, or if he would understand the tree, Grindar gives a polite bow and says, "My name is Grindar, son of Grindor, and these are my friends Lil, Sol, Bigby, and Caelwyn, we are clueless as to what is going on here, but if there is something we can do to help, please but say the word".
'Lil squeezes past everyone and settles in the middle of folks as well she can. "Squeeze in if you're hurt, everyone. We're all friends here. Don't be shy."
Bigby squeezes in for the healing.
Sol squeezes in, but keeps shtum when Grindar starts speaking, not wanting to cramp his friends style.
Caelwyn also squeezes in. Once everyone who wants it is in range, 'Lil channels positive energy, healing 9 HP. The range extends to Agatha and fey with her, Biel, and the tree. The little fellow that Agatha is carrying stirs after the healing, but appears to still be in bad shape. The tree touches Agatha, who surrenders her furry companion to it. The tree also touches Grindar. Grindar: Highlight to display spoiler: {When the tree touches Grindar, he feels protective and "sees" himself being carried to others. He thinks the tree is offering to take him somewhere.}
'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 18/12/16 - CMD 17 d6=5 ; d6=2 ; Friday February 21st, 2020 10:46:15 AM
'Lil's still a tiny bit banged up, and that little guy is pretty hurt, so she continues channeling. An additional 7 HP are healed.
Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 20, HP 22/32 Llew AC 15/14/11 CMD 15 HP 17 Friday February 21st, 2020 1:12:04 PM
Grindar turns to his friends and says, “I think this tree wants to help us by carrying us somewhere, and I feel we can trust him!” To the tree he says, “if my friends are onboard, I would be happy to go with you!”
Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour Saturday February 22nd, 2020 3:59:01 AM
Sol shrugs.
"Hello friend!" He says to the tree.
"We are very happy to accept your assistance! Can you shed some more light on what is happening in the Sargrass? We know that there are mutation blooms happening, which causes these creatures..." he indicates the mutants. "...but personally, I was wondering if you have felt anything else strange in the Sargrass recently?"
DM Steve -- Up a tree Saturday February 22nd, 2020 2:06:21 PM
'Lil's still a tiny bit banged up, and that little guy is pretty hurt, so she continues channeling.
Grindar turns to his friends and says, “I think this tree wants to help us by carrying us somewhere, and I feel we can trust him!” To the tree he says, “if my friends are onboard, I would be happy to go with you!”
Sol shrugs. "Hello friend!" He says to the tree. "We are very happy to accept your assistance! Can you shed some more light on what is happening in the Sargrass? We know that there are mutation blooms happening, which causes these creatures..." he indicates the mutants. "...but personally, I was wondering if you have felt anything else strange in the Sargrass recently?"
Caelwyn and Bigby don't particularly react to Grindar's suggestion, while they take in the scene around them.
Thanks to "Lil's ministrations, the party is healed of their wounds. Agatha and her furry companion are still hurt some, but she runs off into the battle on her own, leaving him in the care of the tree. Biel goes off in a different direction. Off to the east, a storm quickly forms, from which several bolts of lighting strike the battlefield. In the west, a colossal mutant millipede dominates the fight.
The tree reaches down to touch each of the party members. Upon being touched, each feels as if they are watching someone they love being hurt, and that they should do something to help. This is followed by the impression of being carried to that loved one. The tree then picks up the party members and carries them into the thick of the battle. The tree makes slow headway through the throng of mutants by walking over and crushing the smaller ones. It does not take much to recognize that any smaller creatures down there are being hurt by the sheer crush of bodies, as happened in the stampedes earlier. After a short while, the tree reaches another, larger tree within but near an edge of the battle. Bigby, Caelwyn, 'Lil, Grindar, and Sol "see" themselves climbing into this other tree. They "see" that this tree protects its loved ones. Sense motive DC: 12 Highlight to display spoiler: {You realize that this larger tree is where wounded fey are being brought. You might consider it the "hospital tree."}
From their vantage in the larger tree, the characters see the clash of the grove with the animals of the Sargrass. Creatures of many sizes are engaged on both sides of the battle, although the larger trees tower over any of the animals. If the players leave the tree to battle on the ground, they feel sure they will be overwhelmed. Plus, it's a long ways down.
Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 20, HP 32/32 Llew AC 15/14/11 CMD 15 HP 17 d20+2=4 ; Monday February 24th, 2020 5:49:23 AM
sense motive 4
Feeling safer than he has in a long while, Grindar does his best to get comfortable in the tree. part of him would like to re-enter the fray, but he knows that that would be akin to suicide at this point, so he throws up a prayer to Pantheon, asking that justice would prevail on the side of their fey and tree friends. As he watches the carnage, he is thankful for their place of safety, but for the life of him, he can't understand why this war between the fey and the mutants is raging on as it is, or how the Warper-Sarr, who by all accounts isn't necessarily an evil being, could find pleasure in such needless death, brought on by his "creation".
'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 18/12/16 - CMD 17 d20+10=24 ; d6=1 ; d6=1 ; d6=1 ; d6=3 ; d6=5 ; Monday February 24th, 2020 10:41:13 AM "Hey, there're wounded over there." 'Lil points to the hospital tree. "HEY!" she starts yelling at the tree carrying them. "HEY! I CAN HELP. PUT ME OVER THERE."
Assuming the tree listens, 'Lil starts channeling energy after gathering up as many injured as she can.
8 HP healed. Thank goodness we reroll 1s here. Look at that nonsense.
Caelwyn - Carl Subbing d20=8 ; Monday February 24th, 2020 10:43:44 AM
Caelwyn perches comfortably. He patiently waits for an opportunity to stab something.
BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 Monday February 24th, 2020 1:35:20 PM
"so the tree is asking us to climb it. NO wolfgang, you can't pee on it." Wolfgang and Bigby climb up the tree with the others.
GM Ryan - Up A Tree Monday February 24th, 2020 3:38:17 PM Grindar feels safe and contemplates what is going on. His mind goes to the Warper-sar who he has a great deal of trouble understanding. Caelwyn perches comfortably and waits to stab. Lil shouts to be put down saying she can help. Bigby realizes that the tree wants you climb over into its embrace.
Saftly in the new tree Lil is delivered an impression that if she were to be put down it may well be the last that happens and that she should remain calm. The larger tree sprouts small branches, almost tendrils that reach towards those that are hurt. Branches branch off multiple times as the injured are brought to the base of this very large tree.
Near you and near the other injured fruit sprouts and you get the image of healing and reinvigorating. Those that can reach know to eat the fruit and do. As they eat wounds close and they stand straighter ready to get back into the fight. The branches hover over the few that are unconscious and a drip of sap or nectar falls, the wounds close and they to rise looking very healthy.
The battle rages below though a clear area has been kept around this tree.
Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour Monday February 24th, 2020 4:35:46 PM
Sol just watches, apparently completely awestruck at not only this tree but what it seems capable of doing.
Unless directly spoken to, he simply says nothing and watches open mouthed.
Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 20, HP 32/32 Llew AC 15/14/11 CMD 15 HP 17 Tuesday February 25th, 2020 5:43:17 AM
When Grindar sees the trees abilities, he is blown away. He didn't even know such a thing was possible. He turns to Lil, the closest thing to an expert on magical healing, in the party, and asks, "Have you ever seen or heard of such a thing? This tree is a marvel!"
'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 18/12/16 - CMD 17 Tuesday February 25th, 2020 9:43:56 AM "What? No, not down there! I can help with them hurt folk..." then she seems all them hurt folk eatin' fruit and gettin' better. That is a seriously useful tree.
"Huh? No, I ain't know nothing about that. Wonder if we can get a few seeds for that tree. That would be super helpful in New Rattledam."
BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 Tuesday February 25th, 2020 2:00:09 PM
"huh, pretty cool tree. yeah sure lets bring some tree seeds with us."
GM Ryan - Up A Tree Tuesday February 25th, 2020 3:27:02 PM
Sol is awestruck by the actions of he tree as much as Grindar is blown away. Lil again asks to be let down to help before seeing that that has been taken care of. Half a minute passes and the battle is rejoined.
The battle continues for the next thirty seconds or so and it is still clearly too dense to come down out of the tree to help. Many on both sides are injured but a few of the mutates seems to be changing back, not many maybe it is a start. As you watch the shadow again passes over the trees, well three shadows actually. Three large reptilian birds with blue lower feathers circle once twice and close on you all in the tree. You have a moment to adjust your grip and ready yourselves before they will be on you. They are moving fast and hard to make out details yet.
{ooc: Move action each round to not fall from the tree. No check needed if you take the time.}
Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour d20+1=4 ; Tuesday February 25th, 2020 6:45:37 PM
Sol ensures he maintains his balance, trying to get a better look at the birds ((Perception 4)) but fails to see anything of value.
Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 39/44; CMD: 15 Tuesday February 25th, 2020 8:45:05 PM
Caelwyn marvels at the size of this battle. "Clearly we see her a battle between the Warper and the other Sarr...the one that promotes a return to the older ways, when the forests here were tall? I knew I liked the sound of him." Caelwyn has a liking for trees, and his heart is gladdened to see them here at last on these open plains. He hopes none will be seriously hurt.
He thinks too late of his longbow. "Curses...that could have been helpful." He instead readies shield and trident, readying himself to see what the birds do and securing himself in the tree. Perhaps if the opportunity arises he will take the bow out. For now he prepares to strike if the birds attack.
Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 20, HP 32/32 Llew AC 15/14/11 CMD 15 HP 17 d20+8=27 ; d6+5=9 ; Wednesday February 26th, 2020 5:44:34 AM
As Grindar steadies himself, he draws Bwyell with his off hand, and a javelin with his primary hand. he hurls the javelin at the nearest flying beast, saying, "Here we go again!"
Hits AC 27 for 9 damage
BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 Wednesday February 26th, 2020 12:08:48 PM
Bigby gets out his crossbow and puts a bolt in place, getting ready to attack the next round.
'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 18/12/16 - CMD 17 d20+6=22 ; d8+3=10 ; d20+6=26 ; d20+6=7 ; d20+6=12 ; d8+3=10 ; d8+3=6 ; Wednesday February 26th, 2020 12:59:05 PM
'Lil grabs a branch, then braces Maya, ready for the attack.
Readied action: Attack bird if it gets close. If the bird is charging, the attack does double damage. Hit AC 22 for 10 damage (20 if she was charged).
AoO + Combat reflexes:
Nat 20 (crit confirm fail) for 10 damage Hit AC 12 for 6 damage
GM Ryan Link to the map Up A Tree! d20+7=9 ; d20+9=10 ; d20+7=13 ; Wednesday February 26th, 2020 1:26:36 PM
Sol gets a good grip but cannot see anything of note as a bit of bark falls into his eye. Caelwyn does not think of his longbow in time and prepares his other weapons. Bigbyu gets out his crossbow and put a bolt in place. With a grunt Grindar attacks and strikes one of the attacking creatures, the pink-ish one.
The flying lizards, now that they are close, appear to be just that. They are large lizards that appear to have sprouted iridescent dragonfly wings. {Pic on map} The one hit by the javain has a few small drops of blue blood fall to the forest floor below. The creatures, lets call them Giant Liz-Flies come forward to attack.
The yellow on actually lands between Bigby and Caelwyn but misses its attempt to bite Bigby. {To Hit: 9} [/i]
The red Liz-Fly comes in fast after being hit by the javelin and attempts to knock Grindar from the trees branches. Fortunately for Grindar it just does not have enough mass to move him. {Bull Rush: 10} : Grindar you would get an AOO}
The final Liz-Fly swoops in and tries to bite at Lil and gets bopped on the snout on the way in. When close it tries to bite and cannot connect with its razor sharp teeth. {To Hit: 13 - No AOO on the attack but I you got the readies attack off.}
Blue -10 Pink: -9 Yellow: -0
Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 39/44; CMD: 15 d20+8=20 ; d8+3=11 ; Wednesday February 26th, 2020 9:02:29 PM
Caelwyn smiles grimly as the yellow lizard lands within range. "Bad move, monster!" He stabs at its head with his trident.
Attack 20, Damage 11
Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour d20+3=4 ; Thursday February 27th, 2020 4:46:30 AM
Sol tries to keep his head down, but throws out a Ray of Frost at whichever one is closest to him, and almost certainly misses. ((4 to attack))
Cursing is rotten aiming he then hunkers down trying to stay a bit more out of sight.
Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 20, HP 32/32 Llew AC 15/14/11 CMD 15 HP 17 d20+10=25 ; d8+7=13 ; d20+10=11 ; Thursday February 27th, 2020 5:50:22 AM
Grindar sees the opening left as the lizard tries to push him out of the tree, and makes a two handed attack in response. He then follows up with another two handed attack. The constant need to brace himself to avoid falling keeps him from making a full round attack, and apparently, making contact.
AOO Hits AC 25 for 13 damage
regular attack nat 1
'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 18/12/16 - CMD 17 d20+6=14 ; d8+3=11 ; Thursday February 27th, 2020 9:25:00 AM
'Lil holds on. She can't target the blue creature next to her, and her player's not sure if she can take a 5' step AND hold on to the tree. Perhaps his DM can let him know?
In the meantime, she holds on and attacks the magenta creature. She hits AC 14 for 11 damage.
BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 d20+5=23 ; d4=3 ; Thursday February 27th, 2020 11:31:35 AM
Bigby fires off his crossbow at one of the flying creatures. 23 att, 3 dmg.
GM Ryan Link to the map Up A Tree! d20+9=29 ; d20+9=29 ; d20+7=13 ; d20+7=20 ; d6+4=8 ; d6+4=6 ; d8+4=12 ; Thursday February 27th, 2020 5:04:22 PM
Caelwyn lands a good strike on the landed creature which shrieks in pain. Sol keeps his head down and launches a ray of frost that lands in the battle someplace below.
Grindar lands a blow as the creature tries to knock him from the tree but cannot hit a follow up attack. Lil has a question for a higher power and misses with her attack. Bigbys’ crossbow manages to connect with the yellw Liz-Fly.
The pink and blue Liz-Fly retreat back some distance and ready for another run at things. {ooc: withdrawl} The yellow in in place and attacks with teeth and claws at Calewyn. {Hit; 29/13/20 | Crit Confirm: 29 | Dam: 14/12} The bite lands a very rough blow and the claw is not so bad itself. Caelwayn is still in the fight but hurt very badly.
{ooc: Lil – A 5ft step does not really work when clinging to a tree unless you have a climb speed I think.}
Blue -10 Pink: -22 Yellow: -14
Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 20, HP 32/32 Llew AC 15/14/11 CMD 15 HP 17 d20+5=18 ; d6+5=8 ; Thursday February 27th, 2020 6:39:45 PM
Grindar quickly draws another Javelin, and hurls it at the pink liz-fly.
rolled 18-2 for range Hits AC 16 for 8 damage
Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour d20+3=23 ; d3=2 ; Thursday February 27th, 2020 8:01:52 PM
Sol takes another pot shot with Ray of Frost, ((23 to hit, 3 damage)) just popping up long enough to fling the ray at the nearest liz-fly and ducking back down.
Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 18/44; CMD: 15 d20+8=20 ; d8+3=11 ; Thursday February 27th, 2020 10:34:58 PM
Caelwyn cries out in pain as the lizard's teeth and claws leave deep lacerations in his flesh. Gritting his teeth, he manages to stay in the tree. He sends up a desperate prayer to Domi for aid and attacks the lizard again with his trident.
Attack 20, Damage 11
BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 Friday February 28th, 2020 12:32:48 PM
Bigby cocks another arrow into place.
'Lil climbs north a bit to help stab that lizard. The attack goes as well as the last one did...
Hit AC 14 - Miss
AoO + Combat reflexes for the other two:
Hit AC 20 for 11 damage Hit AC 22 for 5 damage
GM Ryan Link to the map Up A Tree! d20+9=10 ; Friday February 28th, 2020 1:59:10 PM
As the pink Liz-fly loops around Grindar hurls another javelin that just manages to connect. More blood drops on the forces below and the creature and it is clearly having trouble staying in the air. Sol follows the javelin with a shard of ice that clips the win causing the ceature to spiral down and crash into the battle below.
Bigby takes a moment to nock an arrow while holding onto the tree. Lil connects with the blue Liz-fly as it moves away form the tree and climbs to attack the yellow but cannot connect.
The yellow Liz-fly is in bad shape but tries to bite again but misses Calwyn with what might be its last attempt unless it is very lucky.
The blue Liz-fly loops out and reorients itself to be facing the tree.
Blue -26 Pink: DEAD Yellow: -25
Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 30/44; CMD: 15 d20+8=16 ; d8+3=10 ; Friday February 28th, 2020 8:30:22 PM
Caelwyn's shield deflects the yellow lizard's attack, repelling its claws. He feels Domi's power flowing through him and collects himself for another attack, stabbing at the creature's head with his trident.
Attack 16, damage 10
Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour d20+3=15 ; d3=3 ; d20+3=6 ; Saturday February 29th, 2020 4:52:19 PM
((Rolling 15 to confirm Crit on previous roll, and an additional 3 damage if Crit is confirmed))
Sol waits until one of the creatures is within range, and flings another Ray of Frost at it ((6 to hit)) but because of the movement of the tree, he misses.
Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 20, HP 32/32 Llew AC 15/14/11 CMD 15 HP 17 d20+1=5 ; Sunday March 1st, 2020 11:50:40 AM
Grindar does his best to calculate the placement of his friends (taking -4 on attack roll for firing into melee) before he draws another javelin and hurls it at the yellow Liz-Fly, but misses badly.
Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 30/44; CMD: 15 Sunday March 1st, 2020 8:02:24 PM
Caelwyn winces as he stabs at the lizard. He isn't hurt as badly as he originally thought, but it's still painful.
BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 d20+5=7 ; Sunday March 1st, 2020 10:31:31 PM
Bigby fires a crossbow bolt and misses.
'Lil (Jeremy dubbing for Carl) d20+6=11 ; d8+3=11 ; Monday March 2nd, 2020 5:01:59 PM
'Lil takes another stab at the Liz-Fly
Hits AC 11 for 11 damage
GM Ryan Link to the map Up A Tree! d20+4=6 ; Monday March 2nd, 2020 8:31:22 PM {ooc: Sol your Ray of Frost had already killed the previous reature so no confirmation needed.}
Grindar and Bigby miss with their attacks, grinder had a very hard shot throwing though the tree branches and all and all. Caelwyn manages to land one more blow, just barely, and the yellow Liz-fly hangs for a second but its claws go slack and it plummets to the ground far below. Lil is there too.
The blue Liz-fly continues it’s archa round the tree and spotting one mage by himself on a branch tucks its wings and attempts to knock him clear out of the tree! On the way in it is hit by a shard of ice. {iic] Rolled that attack roll to here.} Its mass comes in hard and fast but it hits a branch with its head and Sol is fine. {CMB Bull Rush: 4}
Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 30/44; CMD: 15 d20+8=19 ; d8+3=6 ; Monday March 2nd, 2020 9:37:48 PM
Caelwyn takes a five foot...climb? to get closer to Sol, looking to stab the blue lizard with his trident if possible.
Attack 19, Damage 6
Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 29/29 d20+1=2 ; Tuesday March 3rd, 2020 5:27:34 AM
With no other options, Grindar draws and let's fly with his last javelin, but misses worse than the last time (nat 1) as the javelin flies wide after hitting a branch.
BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 Tuesday March 3rd, 2020 10:24:34 AM
"move back sol," Bigby suggests as he nocks another bolt in his little crossbow.
Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour Tuesday March 3rd, 2020 7:04:54 PM
Sol nods at the suggestion, and tries to make cover for himself so he doesn't get attacked again, and uses Total Defense, to try and avoid being knocked out the tree.
GM Ryan Link to the map Up A Tree! Tuesday March 3rd, 2020 7:07:14 PM
Caelwyn moves through the tree. {ooc: which is a standard action as a move is needed to support yourself.} Grindar grabs his last javalin and hurls it hard. Hard enough that it sticks a few inches into the wood of the tree which causes the tree branch to swing back wide out of the way, clearly that hurt. Bigby suggests Sol move as he reloads his crossbow. Sol moves to a defensive position.
The liz-fly, which should be suprised to be alive, flies further from the tree again clearly ready to loop around for another run.
Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 30/44; CMD: 15 d20+5=22 ; d8+3=11 ; Tuesday March 3rd, 2020 8:33:58 PM
Caelwyn changes tactics, deciding to take out his longbow and try to take a shot at the incoming lizard.
Attack 22, Damage 11
Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 29/29 d20+10=29 ; d8+7=10 ; Wednesday March 4th, 2020 5:23:12 AM
Grindar readies an action to bring the full force of Bwyell down on the last Liz-Fly's head, if it comes into range.
Hit's AC 29 for 10 damage
BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 d20+5=9 ; Wednesday March 4th, 2020 10:44:12 AM
Bigby fires off his crossbow att: 9. Bigby begins to curse his luck. "darn technology, wish could get me claws on that thing," Bigby mutters low.
'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 18/12/16 - CMD 17 d20+6=21 ; d8+3=9 ; Wednesday March 4th, 2020 1:55:51 PM
"I love ya guys. You keep throwin' them sticks and hoping they hit. It's adorable!"
Meanwhile, 'Lil readies for the thing to come back so she can stab it.
Readied action: Hit AC 21 for 9 damage Move: Hold on!
***
I've been sick for an entire week, but I'm finally starting to feel better. Thanks for the sub, Jeremy.
GM Ryan Link to the map Up A Tree! Wednesday March 4th, 2020 2:42:08 PM
Grindar readies an attack as Bigby launches another crossbow bolt that sails off to eventually hit a tree or a combatant below. This missed shot is ok though because Caelwyn does not miss with his shot. Caelwyn’s arrow flies very true and passes though the liz-flys large eye and out the back of its head. The wings beat once more by reflex before it dips to the side and spirals to the ground below.
As your eyes follow it down you see that the battle pattern has changed but you have a moment to catch your breath and look about. Sadly the tree is not giving off any of its healing fruit at the moment. The tree is however holding the branch that Rolth hit with a javelin fairly close to its body.
Perception DC15 Highlight to display spoiler: { A ways off a large burning beetle is engaged with three trees and several smaller creatures. The trees are winning but damage is being done on both sides. In the other direction a group of five liz-fly are batted from the air by vines being whipped about by a large tree. }
You have a moment of calm while you watch the battle below going on.
Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour d20+1=3 ; Wednesday March 4th, 2020 6:37:29 PM
Sol speaks up.
"Blimey... this is tragic... to see this battle... caused by problems in the Sargrass... I feel we must try and put a stop to all this mutation nonsense."
Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 30/44; CMD: 15 d20+2=5 ; Wednesday March 4th, 2020 8:47:30 PM
Caelwyn agrees with Sol. "This is only going to get worse unless we can help put a stop to it...what a sad waste of life."
Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 29/29 d20+11=16 ; Thursday March 5th, 2020 5:46:34 AM
Perception 16 "At least our friends are winning" Grindar offers as a way of encouragement, though he feels the same way as his friends. Seeing his Javelin sticking in the tree, and the tree's reaction to it, Grindar, as carefully as possible removes the javelin and asks 'Lil to heal the tree. He apologizes to the tree for his error, which caused the tree's pain, and hopes 'Lil's healing skills can help fix what he broke.
BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 Thursday March 5th, 2020 11:20:20 AM
Bigby sighs and tries to catch his breath. It had been non stop for a while now.
'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 18/12/16 - CMD 17 d20+8=17 ; d6=3 ; d6=1 ; d6=5 ; Thursday March 5th, 2020 11:59:25 AM
"HEY TREE!" 'Lil shouts. "I can heal you and anyone near me. Get me close to wherever I'm needed!"
Once there, 'Lil channels positive energy, healing 8 HP.
GM Ryan Link to the map Up A Tree! Thursday March 5th, 2020 2:26:14 PM
Sol comments on the tragedy going on below them to which Caelwyn agrees. Grinder his hartened that the good guys seem to be winning while Bigby catches his breath. Lil takes a moment to heal the group including the tree which had healed them. Bark reknits and the limb relaxes but it is all a stat reminder that those trees fighting with you can be hurt as much as you can.
Below you the fighting has shifted some, the smaller mutated creatures are seen less and less in favor of larger mutated creatures. It is thinning but still if you went down now you would most likely be overwhelmed. You have a moment more to watch, catch your breath and plan.
Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour Thursday March 5th, 2020 6:16:59 PM
Sol takes a deep breath and rolls back onto his backside so he's sitting.
"What are we going to do? We need to put a stop to these mutation blooms, but beyond the flowers that have been mentioned, do we know what is causing them?"
Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 30/44; CMD: 15 d20+5=24 ; d8+3=8 ; Thursday March 5th, 2020 8:48:13 PM
Caelwyn thinks as he nocks another arrow and looses it at the nearest mutant which is sort of on its own. "We need more information...we have to speak with Biel as soon as we can, to determine how we can stop this from happening. We can't hope to start a colony here with a situation like this going on. And many innocents may be harmed."
Attack 24, Damage 8
Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 29/29 Friday March 6th, 2020 5:35:09 AM
Grindar shimmies over to his friends and says, "Biel did say that ultimately the Warper-Sarr was behind these mutation blooms, as he is trying to use them to create his evolution. I can't help but wonder why the Weaver and Walker Sarrs don't do anything about it, as it seems an affront to their desires".
'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 18/12/16 - CMD 17 d8+4=7 ; Friday March 6th, 2020 11:09:21 AM "They formed some sorta truce, didn't they? Agreed to disagree and whatnot?" She looks down at the melee. "Not sure this was parta that truce, though. Natural world can get pretty ugly at times even without mutatin' flowers, so who knows? Important part is that we all pretty much agree that this ain't cool, so we help Biel.
"I ain't got no idea how to do that, other than heal and stab. Speakin' of, you're still bleedin', C. Here..." She punches C lightly in the shoulder so she don't knock him outta the tree. It heals 7 HP. With the 8 from last round, he should be all patched up and ready to throw himself into danger again.
GM Ryan Link to the map Up A Tree! Friday March 6th, 2020 12:38:52 PM
Sol wonders what they are going to do to put a stop to the mutation bloom. Grindar remindes the group what Biel said about the Warper-sar being behind the mutations and wonders why the Weaver and Warper don’t do anything.
Lil brings up the truce but admits to having no idea what was in the truce. As she cannot work out how to deal with the big pictures she picks one of the things she can do well and heals up Caelwyn.
As this discussion happens things progress down on the ground. The giant beetle is still in mortal combat with the largest of the druidtrees, its druid and several smaller unmutated creatures. They are far off, over a hundred yards, so it is hard to tell much detail but all combantants seem to be worse for he wear.
Closer to you sevral creatures are engaging with the unmuted defenders. These large leopard, black as midnight, have six black snakes with red rigns, hissing and ready to strike, sprouting from their shoulders. It looks like the defenders are intercepting them at this point but some space is beginning to clear around the tree. Soon you may be able to get down and help but it is still a bit of a blender at this poinst.
Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour Saturday March 7th, 2020 2:59:22 AM
Sol shakes his head.
"Such a senseless waste of life. I agree... this does seem like something the Warper would want, and while they may have agreed to a truce, I do not remember being told the underpinnings of the truce. For example, this..." he indicated the warzone "... could not really have been agreed. However it is happening, so someone broke the truce or found a loophole. We may need to see if we can find exactly what the Truce agreed to and see if we can try to reinforce it."
Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 44/44; CMD: 15 d20+5=20 ; d8+3=4 ; d8+3=11 ; Sunday March 8th, 2020 2:21:42 PM
"Aye, something has happened...this is different from anything we have encountered so far", Caelwyn remarks as he looses another arrow at a nearby mutant.
He feels energy flowing back into him as his wounds heal. He smiles his thanks to Lil and whispers a prayer to Domi, to help him heal this land and protect the innocent.
Attack: 20 (not natural 20), Damage: 4 (OOC: ignore re-roll, I forgot we only re-roll 1s for healing)
BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 Sunday March 8th, 2020 9:15:08 PM
Bigby listens to the party talk about what's going on. He continues to nock another bolt.
Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 29/29 Monday March 9th, 2020 5:36:00 AM
Grindar finds all this unnecessary carnage heart breaking. He is prepared to continue the fight if needed, but is at his wits end as to why this is even being allowed to happen. "Weaver Sarr, Walker Sarr, do you guys see what the Warper Sarr is doing here?" Grindar yells out in frustration, "Don't you care that he is causing all this needless destruction and death?"
'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 18/12/16 - CMD 17 d20+8=10 ; Monday March 9th, 2020 10:34:25 AM
'Lil raises an eyebrow as Grindar starts mouthin' off at the Sargrass Powers. She puts a hand on his shoulder. "Remember we ain't here to get involved in the Sargrass aspect fight, dude. We're here to get druidwood to help folks back home."
All of her dudes should be healed up at this point. (OOC: Sol's showing he's down a few HP. Did you update your header after I channeled energy a few days ago?). She keeps an eye out around her, making sure nothing's sneakin' up on'em (perception: 10).
GM Ryan Link to the map Up A Tree! Monday March 9th, 2020 4:40:11 PM
Sol continues taking about the waste of life and wonders if they can find the exact details of the truce thinking it might need to be enforced. Calewyn launches another arrow that, despite the range, annoys one of the leopard beasts. Bigby listens and nocks a bolt.
Grindar calls to the Weaver and Walker to see what the Warper is doing. Lil reminds them that the fight between the powers is not their fight.
Farther away the battle of the titans is still raging between the biggest of the trees and gargantuan flaming beetle.
Below many things are coming clear and the non-mutates are winning the day more and more. The circle has pushed back from the tree and given many yards on each aide at the base. That is the good news. The bad news is that in a few places it looks as though the line is broken. In one, to the north, a large leopard with six black snakes ringed in red that sprout form tis shoulders, is staking in the directing of the tree. As you look up it looks as though a second might actually make it through as well.
There are no other defenders and you are about thirty feet up in the tree. What do you do next?
Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour d20+3=8 ; d3=2 ; Monday March 9th, 2020 6:06:43 PM
Sol breathes a sigh of relief, which turns to concern as he sees the line breaking.
"We need to do something!"
He points at it, and attempts to cast Ray of Frost. ((8 to hit, 2 damage))
Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 44/44; CMD: 15 d20+5=19 ; d8+3=6 ; Monday March 9th, 2020 9:58:22 PM
Caelwyn decides to focus on one of the leopards, and maybe deal some damage before it reaches the tree. He looses another arrow. "Let's take these out before they get too close..."
Attack 19, Damage 6
Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 44/44; CMD: 15 d20+5=19 ; d8+3=6 ; Monday March 9th, 2020 9:58:22 PM
Caelwyn decides to focus on one of the leopards, and maybe deal some damage before it reaches the tree. He looses another arrow. "Let's take these out before they get too close..."
Attack 19, Damage 6
Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 29/29 Tuesday March 10th, 2020 5:28:20 AM
Grindar attempts to talk to the tree, asking if it could put him and his friends down so they can form a defensive line.
BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 d20+5=9 ; Tuesday March 10th, 2020 10:45:15 AM
Bigby fires his crossbow. att: 9
'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 18/12/16 - CMD 17 Tuesday March 10th, 2020 4:57:19 PM
'Lil considers just jumpin' down, but this high up she'd probably just bust her ankle and get eaten. That ain't brave, that's stupid. She hears Grindar's request and seconds it.
"Yea tree dude! Put us down over there, or at least get us a little lower!"
GM Ryan Link to the map Up A Tree! Wednesday March 11th, 2020 4:21:48 PM
Caelway manages to hit the leopard that has defiantly made it though with an arrow doing enough damage to actually bring it down as it was quite wounded. The second leopard is coming faster and does not look to be damaged at all.
The tree does not respond to requests and actually is not moving. Perhaps its attention is elsewhere at the moment.
You could attack from above or have enough time to make it to the ground before the leopard arrives most likely.
'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 18/12/16 - CMD 17 d20+2=5 ; Wednesday March 11th, 2020 4:29:59 PM
'Lil takes matters into her own hands and starts climbing down. She's not much of a climber, though. Let's hope she doesn't fall outta this tree.
Climb: 5
Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour d20+3=7 ; Wednesday March 11th, 2020 7:33:44 PM
Sol flings another Ray of Frost, and promptly misses, sighing and resigning himself to not being as useful in combat as he might like.
Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 29/29 d20+1=5 ; Thursday March 12th, 2020 5:55:55 AM
Grindar tries to follow 'Lil down the tree, but like her, his climbing skills are pretty poor.
Climb 5
BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 Thursday March 12th, 2020 2:38:59 PM
Bigby nocks another bolt, not wanting to fall out of the tree. He will continue to attack from up here.
GM Ryan Link to the map Up A Tree! Thursday March 12th, 2020 4:20:07 PM
Lil and Grindar make some headway getting down. {ooc: DC5 climb check} While neither is a great cimber they are athletic enough that the climb will not be deadly.
The creature is at a full sprint and makes it to the base of the tree. The cat is clearly a dangerous beast but it does not move to to scale the tree to get you. Instead it rears up to swipe its terrible claws at the living tree itself!
'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 18/12/16 - CMD 17 d20+2=3 ; Thursday March 12th, 2020 4:30:01 PM
'Lil continues climbing down, but her foot slips. She manages to grab a branch and save herself from falling, but she takes a moment to calm her rapidly beating heart.
Climb: 3. Within 5, so I shouldn't fall.
Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour d20+3=10 ; Thursday March 12th, 2020 6:39:17 PM
Sol watches his friends climb down, and decides to fire off another Ray of Frost in the general direction, because apparently his aim is rubbish.
Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 44/44; CMD: 15 d20+5=23 ; d8+3=5 ; Thursday March 12th, 2020 8:50:11 PM
"Hey!" Caelwyn now adds falling to his death to his list of current concerns. "Back off, mutant!" He stays where he is, loosing another arrow at the new leopard.
Attack 23, damage 5
Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 29/29 d20+1=18 ; Friday March 13th, 2020 5:32:05 AM
Climb Check 18 Grindar continues climbing down, managing to make another 5ft without incident. He is beginning to wonder whether or not he should invest in a better range weapon, or maybe just some more javelins.
OOC... What is the height of the tree again?
BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 d20+5=13 ; Friday March 13th, 2020 10:18:13 AM
Bigby fires another bolt att 13. "Blasted crossbow."
GM Ryan Link to the map Up A Tree! Saturday March 14th, 2020 7:34:08 PM
Some of the team spend time climbing while others fire off arrow, bolts or shards of ice. Some find home some do not but it is Caelwyn who gets off a lucky shot into the creatures mouth. It chokes and falls over having taking internal damage.
Looking into the distance you see something truely unusual and terrifying. The gargantuan flaming beetle that had been battling the largest of the trees lands a powerful bite with its pincers. At the same time the tree pierces straight thought the insect. Both combatants topple to the ground and the area is silent for a moment. Looking around you see the mutates are for the most part dead but the loss of the tree is clearly a great loss.
Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 29/29 Monday March 16th, 2020 5:28:39 AM
Grindar is feeling down hearted as he surveys the carnage before him. Such a waste of life and for what? He actually sheds a tear when he sees the mighty tree fall, and throws up a prayer to Pantheon hoping that this will be the end of this senseless carnage.
'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 18/12/16 - CMD 17 d20+2=12 ; d8=7 ; Monday March 16th, 2020 11:44:57 AM
For the most part dead isn't the same as dead dead.
She continues climbing down, not content to just sit in this tree anymore. She does a better job this time.
climb: 12
Once down, she'll run over to that tree. She ain't sure how to tell if a tree is dead or not, but maybe if there's any life at all, she can heal it. She casts CLW, unwilling to take a chance that her channeled energy will revive nearby mutants as well. She heals 11 HP damage.
BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 d20+2=11 ; Monday March 16th, 2020 4:49:26 PM
Bigby and Wolfgang attempt to climb down 11 climb. Bigby takes in the battle. Not one for many words, but the battle is an awful sight.
Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour d20-1=12 ; Monday March 16th, 2020 8:37:24 PM
Sol doesn't really move... he just stops after seeing the brutality. It's almost like he's gone catatonic. After a few moments he begins to climb down.
Vigil
"Farewell" DM Jerry Monday March 16th, 2020 10:35:46 PM
There is silence. After what feels like several lifetimes, it is over.
Then weeping as a druid that looks like he's lived forever begins to cry softly holding onto the trunk.
Grinder earnestly prays to Pantheon.
'Lil, Bigbywolf with Wolfgang, and Sol slowly climb down and approach. This movement within the stillness seems to wake the other trees and druids from their immovability and they begin to slowly move.
Lil' approaches and reaches out to the burned and still ancient druid tree and tries to heal it. There is no effect.
Biel seems less affected as his tree is not present. He approaches one of the other druids, a female. "Murnian." He shakes her. "Murnian. Go ....he needs you now. Her red hair messed and a head injury dripping blood, she stumbles forward."
The druid stumbles forward to the weeping druid. "Grandfather, I...I am so sorry."
He turns and buries himself in her embrace, wracked with loss.
The trees as one, begin waving their branches and a combined low pitched voice, deeper than thunder, begins to sing the oldest of them all into the afterlife. The ancient one glows with a golden sheen for a few moments, then it fades.
Though you don't know the language, the one word they sing is understood by all.
"Farewell."
Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 44/44; CMD: 15 Monday March 16th, 2020 11:36:29 PM
Caelywn sighs, shaking his head. He wonders if the tree is sentient, or alive in the sense that it has a soul, or simply alive as all plant life is. Regardless, this is a clearly a major loss. He looks around for more enemies as he begins to climb down.
Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 29/29 Tuesday March 17th, 2020 5:57:38 AM
Grindar continues to climb down then joins his friends, the sadness on his face and tears in his eyes, reveal more emotion than the half-orc youth was planning on sharing. He wishes desperately to talk to Biel and the other druids in hopes of gaining insight as to why this tragedy has unfolded, but he doesn't have the heart to speak at the moment. Finally, he says in the language that came with his new skill set, druidic, "My deepest of sympathies. This is truly a tragic loss of life, and a day for sadness". He gives a humble bow as a sign of respect for both the living and the dead, then adds, "May Gargul be merciful".
BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 Tuesday March 17th, 2020 11:18:54 AM
Bigby takes in the scene and remains quiet. Bigby waves a goodbye to the trees not knowing if he'd ever see them again. "I'll miss you guys the most," he softly says.
'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 18/12/16 - CMD 17 Tuesday March 17th, 2020 2:52:01 PM
'Lil doesn't understand none of this, but she knew bravery when she saw it. That tree was brave. She learned some time ago that telling the bereaved that their loved ones died bravely was only welcome after they had time to process the shock. Doing so right after they lost'em just made folks angry.
She sighs sadly and backs away from the tree she couldn't heal. The people around here obviously suffered a great loss today. What effect would it have on the truce between them and those who followed a path of mutation?
Then, a morbid but practical thought: Is this ancient tree made of druid wood? The same druid wood they are all the way out here to procure? She wasn't about to go asking right now it they could chop it up and make a boat outta it, but the question lingers. If this was what they were here for, it would take a seriously diplomatic touch...and she wasn't sure she'd ever feel right about it. She never thought of druid trees as sentient, just rare.
Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour Tuesday March 17th, 2020 7:51:03 PM
Sol, finishes climbing down, and looks downcast, but doesn't say anything. He still seems pretty shook up by the waste of life and the death that surrounds the party.
Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 44/44; CMD: 15 Tuesday March 17th, 2020 8:11:48 PM
Caelwyn feels a deep sorrow for the loss of the ancient tree. Clearly this was of great importance to the druids, and this whole community and ecosystem.
He approaches Biel. "This looks to be a devastating loss to these people...I'm sorry we couldn't prevent it from happening. How did this tragedy come about?"
OOC: Sorry, my last post went up the second the DM post did...that was supposed to go with the post from the day before.
We Must Go On [DM Jerry] Tuesday March 17th, 2020 11:10:56 PM
Caelwyn finds no enemies, however, there seems to be plenty of bodies just to the north. It looks like the druids and their trees were fighting for their home at the end.
One of the younger druids, appearing perhaps middle-aged approaches Grinder and in a soft voice says, "Much thanks, visitor. My name is Fendan. My tree is that one there with the dark green moss. Its name is Mossbraid. I keep telling him it is too literal. Come sit." He leads to a nearby soft spot in the grass and sits. "Tell your friends to join us if they wish. By the way, the ents don't go to Gargul. Out of courtesy for the old times he sends them on to Eberyon who gives them rest in Maab's Valleys."
Biel comes up beside Bigbywolf and says, "Come let's join Grinder and Fendan."
As 'Lil backs away from the dead druid tree, the wild looking, redheaded Murnian, there with her grandfather, reaches out to touch your shoulder. "Thanks for trying...I...just couldn't move there for a sec. You confirmed the passing, the honor is yours for the moot."
Murnian turns back to her grandfather. "Grandfather...Virgil, we've talked about this. We must go on. The Grove needs you."
The use of his name seems to cause Virgil to stir. He turns to her putting a hand on each cheek. "No granddaughter. I have no ent. After all these ages, Genyielt has passed on and is enroute to Eberyon and his rest. You now have the most ancient of the druid ents. You must be, no you now are, the new Steward of the Grove." He removes an ancient necklace that seems to sing a bit and places it upon her neck.
Biel pats the soft forest floor motioning to Sol to join the small group. "Look at all the mutated bodies over there." He points just north and to the dead one entwined with the dead tree. "The Bloom," Biel answers. "The trees and their druids fought to get the bloom. They will likely mourn for awhile. Later it will occur to them to ask why we have come and why after I left in disagreement with Virgil, I chose now of all times to return. We both must choose our words carefully when the time comes. Especially now."
Fenden nods to Biel. "Yes, best to give it time, my friend. But it is good to see you. I am glad you are home."
Biel says, "It is good to return for a time. However, you notice I did not bring Vanja with me. He stayed to protect our new grove."
Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 29/29 Wednesday March 18th, 2020 6:18:13 AM
Grindar does as he is asked, and asks the rest to join him and Fenden for a sit. He doesn't know what to think about the passing of the necklace, or Biel's words, or the bloom, or any of this. The only thing that is certain, is that this 15 year old half-orc is feeling sadness like never before, and completely out of his league.
'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 18/12/16 - CMD 17 Wednesday March 18th, 2020 9:51:03 AM
The honor is hers for the moot? What the heck did that mean? She would ask Biel in private in a moment, but for now she gives a sad smile and grasps the woman's shoulder back. "There's a lot going on here that I don't understand, but I know loss and bravery when I see it. I'm real sorry for this loss, Murnian."
BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 Wednesday March 18th, 2020 11:45:34 AM
Bigby puts his little arm around his giant half orc friend and lets out a sigh and some tears. Wolfgang wimpers along in unison with the pack. So this is grieving, Bigby thought.
Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour Wednesday March 18th, 2020 9:28:53 PM
Sol sits when indicated and listens to what's being said, and after a few moments of the sadness, his eyes dry and a firmness comes into them.
"So we need to stop the Bloom then. Do we know what is causing it?"
Everyone! Gather [DM Jerry] Wednesday March 18th, 2020 10:36:02 PM
Murnium says, "Thanks....and you are?"
Biel says, "Ask away, 'Lil. If you have a question, I'll try to answer it. It might help us shake off tonight's events to...talk.
Oh! This is Sol, Bigbywolf, 'Lil, Grinder and Caelwyn. They are a bonafide adventuring group, from...and you're not going to believe this part...they are from Rattledam. They and those who came with them are rebuilding it on the old ruins."
A deep voice says, "The bloom is taken care of."
Murnium says, "That's Quickbud, the tree I'm joined with. He speaks more than most, thus the first part of his name."
Quickbud says, "We are all injured."
Murnium jumps to he feet. "Oh! Please forgive me!"
"Nothing to forgive. You were in shock. Now you are not joined one."
Biel hops up. "Is the medicinals still in the same place as always?"
She nods while checking Quickbud for injuries. "Everyone! Gather. Find your tree, help others. Anything we can't heal we cover with sap and let it heal naturally. You know the drill."
She says to the party, "Go north, probably 1000 ft or so. Look for the sign of the Manfri among the rock pile you'll find there. Enter and bring back everything you can carry."
Biel goes to Quickbud and begins healing his wounds, which seem to all be on the roots and lower trunk.
Murnium says, "But..."
Biel says, "You lead. Encourage..." He grins. "Keep being grandfather."
There are nearly a hundred trees.
Virgil remains with his dead partner.
=====
You were supposed to already be aware of the bloom. Will include info in the email.
'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 18/12/16 - CMD 17 Thursday March 19th, 2020 8:30:13 AM
'Lil makes a mental note to ask Biel about moot stuff later. For now trees were suffering.
"Will my healing magic work on them?" 'Lil asks anyone who will listen. If so, 'Lil lets her dudes go get the healing supplies and expends all her healing magic. She can channel energy twice for 2d6, cast 2 CLW for 1d8+4, and 2 CMW for 2d8+4.
Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 44/44; CMD: 15 d20+11=28 ; d20+2=21 ; Thursday March 19th, 2020 12:57:36 PM
Caelwyn stands silently for a moment. His heart grieves for the eldest druid and the ancient ent, who had clearly been bonded for a long time.
But he also gives thought to their own mission. "What a mess", he murmers to himself, looking around the battlefield. They had a simple mission - to help create and protect a settlement in the Sargrass. Things were getting more complicated every day. "Domi, give me the wisdom to make the right decisions here..."
Out loud, he responds to Murnium with a slight bow, "In Domi's name, I will do all I can to help. We will investigate the rock pile at once, and hopefully we can speak further later. We are so sorry for your losses."
Diplomacy 28
He then turns and begins to make his way north, searching for the rock pile.
Perception 21
Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 29/29 Thursday March 19th, 2020 1:07:21 PM
Grindar simply bows his head in understanding, then starts heading in the appropriate direction. “Finally, something I can help with!” He says under his breath.
BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 Thursday March 19th, 2020 3:00:33 PM
Bigby listens and nods. Looks to see that someone else got because he might forget the mission at hand. He sees others nod and goes back to nodding in agreement to the mission with confidence.
Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour Thursday March 19th, 2020 8:29:48 PM
Sol nods alongside Lil's words before following to the north.
"Why do I get the feeling this task will appear so simple, yet be so much more difficult?"
The Rock Pile [DM Jerry] Thursday March 19th, 2020 9:47:12 PM
Passing through all the dead bodies from the battle is surreal. What a battle! What a waste.
The party finds the rock pile easily. It is about 15' tall and about 25' wide. It looks natural. If the pile is "Ent made" or "Manfri made" it is well done.
The rocks are made of granite, which is VERY strange in the Sargrass. Probably they have been here for a very long time.
'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 18/12/16 - CMD 17 d20+8=18 ; Friday March 20th, 2020 9:43:44 AM
"Right, so we're looking for a sign of the Manfri," states 'Lil, looking at the pile. She cranes her neck looking at the top of the tall tower of rock. "This ain't what I'd call a pile. This thing's big!" She starts looking for...whatever it is they're looking for. Hopefully she'll know it when she sees it.
Perception: 18
BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 d20+3=16 ; Friday March 20th, 2020 3:23:00 PM
knowledge geography: 16 to find out more about the rocks and the significance of granite. Bigby walks over and observes the rock in a sherlock holmes fashion. He turns and points a finger as though he has an epiphany. and then he puts the finder down and looks back at the rock again. Must be something to glean from here. ok, no pressure druid.
Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 29/29 d20+11=13 ; Friday March 20th, 2020 5:01:05 PM
At the rock pile Grindar also searches for the Manfri sign perception 13.
Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 44/44; CMD: 15 d20+2=10 ; Friday March 20th, 2020 8:53:22 PM
Caelwyn is curious to learn more about this rock pile. It looks rather unusual in this environment. He begins to search as well.
Perception 10
Mark of the Manfri [DM Jerry] Friday March 20th, 2020 10:15:06 PM
Our adventurers search for the "Sign of the Manfri." Cailwyn searches thinking it is very unusual to have a rock pile like this in this place. Nothing catches her eye. Grinder searches for the Manfri sign as well.
BigbyWolf has a different take on things and investigates why the rocks are here and why they are granite. It is right on the tip of his tongue. Then it hits him. Granite lasts a long time. This rock is also not "quite" like any granite he's ever seen before. There are tiny blue veins in places. Long time.... This rock formation has been here for a very long time. Likely longer than even the Sargrass. Back to the time of the...well whatever was here before the Sargrass. Wait! The Druid Trees are that old! But there has to be more! Why would the trees need such a place?
Then 'Lil finds it. The mark is in High Woldian. A filled black circle with a black line heading down and hooking back up diagonally. Almost like an upside down musical note, but not quite. So weird!
===== Attaching a diagram of the mark.
Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 29/29 d20+11=17 ; Saturday March 21st, 2020 11:18:30 AM "What a strange mark, anyone have any idea as to what it means?", Grindar asks his friends, as he looks for an entrance Perception 17
Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour Sunday March 22nd, 2020 8:39:32 AM
Sol shakes his head.
"No idea."
Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 44/44; CMD: 15 d20+2=4 ; Sunday March 22nd, 2020 9:23:37 PM
Caelwyn has never seen such a mark, to his knowledge. "It must have some religious or magical significance...but I cannot be sure." He also looks around for an entrance. Unfortunately, it just looks like a big pile of rocks to him.
Perception 4
'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 18/12/16 - CMD 17 Monday March 23rd, 2020 9:32:16 AM
'Lil thinks she's got a good head on her shoulders, but it's totally unburdened by actual knowledge. She has no idea what to do here.
So, she pushes it and sees what happens.
BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 Monday March 23rd, 2020 12:20:21 PM
Bigby relays the information he's learned about the granite being old and a possible connection that escapes him to the trees and the granite. "musical note. whatever happened to that bard we used to have. Too bad he's not here, because me...I don't do music." Bigby figures he's got noting to lose here by trying to detect magic on the symbol. and if that doesn't work then on the rocks.
Yes? [DM Jerry] Monday March 23rd, 2020 9:32:57 PM
Grinder perceives several things. First, obviously the mark is aimed towards someone that knows its meaning. Someone arriving here for the first time that will recognize the sign and follow it.
Several ideas occur.
A musical note.
An arrow.
A key.
A trap.
Instructions...for getting inside or under.
Caelwyn says it may have religious or magical significance.
Then 'Lil pushes it. Which doesn't work, but a soft sound "bongs."
You each feel a mental touch. As if it tests each of you. It searches honest thoughts and feelings.
Who are you?
Why are you here?
What do you seek?
Why?
Then a soft voice out loud. "Yes?"
[Along with your post and actions, please give your honest opinions and feelings concerning the Druid Trees, the druids, any anything else that you feel strongly about.]
Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 44/44; CMD: 15 d20+2=16 ; Monday March 23rd, 2020 10:32:42 PM
Caelwyn looks around, startled, but not fearful. "I seek...peace. Peace and protection for those who are suffering. Peace by the sword, but only if necessary, only to protect the innocent." He tries to perceive where the voice is coming from. Perception 16
Honest opinions and feelings: Caelwyn speaks to the voice with his thoughts; "I am conflicted in my mind. We came to the Sargrass Plains to help found a new colony, but our journey seems to be taking us ever farther from achieving that goal. And now I find that the druidwood we hoped to use to advance our colony is part of a living being, one that seems to be sentient and bound to the druids who live here. How can I in good conscience allow such a thing? I am thankful for my companions, but our journey grows ever murkier...I desire clarity about which aspect of the Sargrass to support here, if support one we must."
'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 18/12/16 - CMD 17 Tuesday March 24th, 2020 12:14:42 PM
Sometimes, you just gotta push the button. 'Lil ain't thrilled with voices in her head what ain't Domi's, but it is what it is. She decides to keep her answers concise.
"I'm 'Lil, and we're here because some druids asked us to come here and bring back everything we could carry. There was a brawl with a bunch'a mutated critters and a lot of folks and trees go hurt." She doesn't vocalize that this delay could cost them, but the thought occurs to her unbidden.
"If we're bein' honest, I'm a little sore that we're even here. We had a choice between gettin' druidwood and bringing in more help to Rattledam. Everyone else thought druidwood was the way to go, and I was out voted. I'd shrugged my shoulders and moved on from the whole thing, but the further down this path we go the more sure I am I was right. I can't in good conscious ask a sentient tree to give it's life so we can have a cool boat to navigate the Sargrass with. We've gone through a lot to get here, and I ain't sure we're getting anything outta it but knowledge and disappointment. That ain't as helpful to New Rattledam than a bunch of sturdy backs and hands." She looks around at her dudes and shrugs. "Feels like we're meddling in things we don't understand, but we could end up hurtin' folks if we make the wrong choices. It's frustrating."
Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 29/29 Tuesday March 24th, 2020 1:24:41 PM
“My name is Grindar, son of Grindor, a Ranger, and now Druid who serves Pantheon. I’m here seeking whatever I can find that may help a bunch of Driuds, and their trees, they are pretty banged up after a nasty battle brought on by the Warper-Sarr’s mutants. I hate all the senseless death, and am willing to do what I can to stop an more in the future. My heart is broken over the loss of the trees, druids, fey, and even the mutants, as they didn’t chose to be mutated, who died. We originally came for Druid wood, not fully understanding what that meant, but now, I wonder if we shouldn’t just build a wall around the Sargrass, with signs saying keep out, only Death can be found here. I blame the Warper-Sarr for this carnage, and question why the Weaver and Walker-Sarrs don’t do anything. I guess I blame them too, since they chose to turn a blind eye to such, dare I say, evil activity”.
BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 Tuesday March 24th, 2020 1:57:51 PM
Honest opinions: We haven't hunted in forever. That's the worst. Also, people probably don't want to hear this, but I think it's pretty cool to be talking and fighting next to giant trees. If only there were more wolfs in this area. Ah, but there's always Wolfgang. I feel strongly a love for Wolfgang and for my fighting party here. Also, I could eat.
Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour Tuesday March 24th, 2020 8:12:30 PM
"I am Elijah Solomon. I am here to help settle Rattledam. I see the knowledge and skills of greater mages than I, so that I may learn from them and become better at my chosen craft."
Sol says this all simply and plainly, with out emotion, and calmly.
DM - Highlight to display spoiler: {Underneath Sol is a roil of emotion, he's sad he left his hometown, he's unsure of his abilities and not sure he's as skilled as he needs to be. He feels protective of the druids and the trees, and is happy to be helping them, he just doesn't feel like he's powerful enough. He thinks that the druid trees will be beneficial for Rattledam, and that's his main goal at the moment.}
Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 44/44; CMD: 15 Tuesday March 24th, 2020 10:30:09 PM
Calwyn listens for the response of the voice.
Consider Something [DM Jerry] Tuesday March 24th, 2020 11:10:36 PM
Caelwyn expresses his doubts and confusion. Lil doubts that using the wood of a sentient creature is right. Grinder is practical in his thinking, but his heart goes out to the dead and injured. Bigbywolf is even more practical and misses the hunt. Sol expresses his inadequacy to the situation while thinking about the original task: settling Ratledam.
You realize, that you have all been judged. A glimpsing thought comes that the tester is surprised to find beings in this age of such honest integrity and from such youth.
Below the symbol solid rock seems to fade. A low crawlway is revealed headed down. Inside something pulses faintly with a greenish hue.
Entering, you see a conical room like the inside of a Hershey's kiss, narrowing to the top, with the floor some 10' below the rock formation.
A shrine is in the middle with a very old staff in the center. It is what is pulsing.
Around the perimeter are some stone jars with lids and some "pockets" of liquid also pulsing green. Beside each pot is a ladle also made of stone.
You hear the voice again out loud. "Take the staff. It will heal the Ents and rejuvenate them. Fill the pots and take. They will heal the druids. Return everything when finished. And consider something, for me. Consider making the choice to call the beautiful Sargrass, home."
'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 18/12/16 - CMD 17 Wednesday March 25th, 2020 12:13:54 PM
'Lil wonders who's talking to them. People and trees are hurt, so it's no time to chat, but she talks as she grabs the staff.
"I miss home, but I'll be here a while. This place may grow on me yet. It ain't ever boring; I'll give it that. Who are you anyway?"
BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 Wednesday March 25th, 2020 12:35:58 PM "aside from getting swallowed by a frog, and eaten by large fire ants, and almost killed by short canibals, and almost dying...the Sargrass isn't that bad...I mean it's growing on me." Bigby smiles. Wolfgang shakes his head in agreement.
Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 29/29 Wednesday March 25th, 2020 1:10:50 PM
Out of a strong desire to help the ents and druids, Grindar gets to works lads long the liquid into the pots. As he is working, he asks the voice, “May I ask to whom we are speaking?
BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 Wednesday March 25th, 2020 6:51:59 PM
Bigby forgets that they have work. and is a little embarrassed that he forgot but snaps to after seeing everyone else start working. H
"So stranger friends, why have you come?" [DM Jerry] Wednesday March 25th, 2020 10:00:06 PM
"I will reveal myself when you return my thing," the voice says. "Concentrate on the healing for now."
Lil grabs the staff.
Wolfgang talks to the voice, relating some of the experiences they have had in the Sargrass to date.
Grander loads all the stone containers with the liquid. Bigby does the same.
And very quickly, the party is rushing south to the trees and is healing both trees and druids.
Biel turns to Murnium. "You tested them, thinking you knew why I brought them. They surprised you. They passed the test of Maab. So now, you know there was more than one reason to bring them."
Murnium turns to him and lays her hands on his shoulders. "Yes. But you must give us time to trust."
Beil bows respectfully. "You are Steward of the Grove."
After about an hour, all are healed, most of the stone containers are empty and fatigue sets in.
Murnium casually gathers everyone and says, "The only thing that can happen when one is fatigued is to make bad decisions. Get some rest, mourn, sleep if you can. We will meet with our stranger friends in the morning."
In the morning, there is bread and honey for breakfast. Afterwards, everyone gathers near the corpse of Genyielt, with Virgil still sitting near him, and Murnium, laying the staff the party brought the night before in her lap says very simply, "So stranger friends, why have you come?"
Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 44/44; CMD: 15 d20+11=18 ; Wednesday March 25th, 2020 11:06:59 PM
Caleywn inclines his head respectfully. "Thank you for your welcome. We understand the need for testing - you have little prior knowledge of us, and this is your domain to protect. We have come here to seek what help we can for the establishment of a new settlement here in the Sargrass."
Diplomacy 18
Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour Thursday March 26th, 2020 4:19:51 AM
Sol nods, letting the more, diplomatic members of the party talk, and still thinks on everything he saw, and how stunning and impressive it was.
He only wishes to go back to study it some more.
'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 18/12/16 - CMD 17 Thursday March 26th, 2020 10:05:23 AM
At night, when her and her dudes are alone, she ponders. "How come none of us put two and two together that druid wood came from a druid's tree?" She goes quiet for a second, then ponders some more. "Were all those other druid wood craft made from the wood'a conquered druid trees? Did the old Rattledam folks invade druid groves for it? Could explain some of why the three Sargrass aspects is against each other, and why they're slow to trust us when we show up from New Rattledam seekin' resources." She shrugs, then rolls over and falls asleep real fast.
*** Next morning! ***
'Lil chuckles as Cae talks. Out here in the bush among druids, and he's still talkin' fancy. She loved that about'im.
"Yea, that's right," she adds. "But pretty sure we're all realizin' we didn't know what we were getting ourselves into." She gets quiet for a second, wondering if they should just spill the beans. She thinks they should, but don't think it's right for her to decide that for the whole group.
Of course, this is probably a real good time to listen to what these druids have to say. They have a lot more to learn from them then they have to learn from us, that's for sure.
Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 29/29 Thursday March 26th, 2020 1:21:25 PM
In spite of the test, Grindar feels that the druids have been straight with them, saved their lives, with the help of their fey and tree friends even, so he feels that it would only be right to do likewise. He says, ”Like my friends have said, we are trying to rebuild Rattledam, and create a safer place to live and means of travel. We were originally sent north to ask the Crystal Mountain monks for aid, and they sent us here in search of Druid wood. Of course we were completely ignorant of the woods true origins, had we know they were a sentient being, we would have stayed in Rattledam. We stand before you with a desire of friendship and possibly future trade partners, but our search for Druid wood is over, and should have never began, I know my friends agree with me in this”.Turning to Lil, Grindar says, ”We should have listened to you sister, I apologize for not doing so”.
BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 Thursday March 26th, 2020 5:58:34 PM
Bigby listens and nods his head in agreement as members talk. Say something about Bigby, he wasn't one to waste words. Especially when others could do it better.
Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 44/44; CMD: 15 Thursday March 26th, 2020 9:11:01 PM
Caelwyn's insides twist into a knot as Grindar mentions the Druidwood. He was not planning on mentioning that just yet - this young half-orc still has a lot to learn about diplomacy...who knows what the druids might think of them now.
He nods along with Grindar's words, however, making it clear that they certainly do not indeed to take wood from any of these tree-creatures now.
"I Knew it!" [DM Jerry] Thursday March 26th, 2020 10:14:06 PM
The druids listen carefully to Caelwyn's words and most seem to be thinking and evaluating.
There are several smiles as 'Lil adds her comments.
You hear soft voices saying things like, "Mature beyond their years, but trust comes slowly."
"They passed Murnium's test. You don't fool...HER."
Then Grinder gets to the point. They came for Druid wood, but were ignorant of what that meant.
One tall muscular druid jumps to his feet. "I knew it! There's only one reason they came and you knew it too Murni! They want the wood, the FLESH, the BONES of our friends. And our leader just DIED!!!"
He turns and stomps away. His tree follows.
Several others start to rise to go with him. Murnium, however, with a commanding voice says, "SIT!"
Her eyes slowly travels the circle of people, then she goes around again looking at the trees. "They showed respect. They fought. The stone hill's guardian gave up some of her secrets to them. The staff permitted itself to be used by them. THINK on that guardians. Please, think on that."
Of the druids that were angry, most listen. A few do not, but remain seated. Again, she waits. She seems to have learned from her grandfather the skills of leadership well.
[Perception check of 12 to notice that during all the drama, Virgil turns around, still seated, re-crosses his legs and watches. He looks tired. He needs more than rest, he needs...time.]
She turns to you, the visitors. "Tell us about...what did you call it? Rattledam please. It will help for you to tell us of your new home in the north. It must be a special place for you to have come all this way. The need must be dire to have sent what is obviously their best to quest for help."
'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 18/12/16 - CMD 17 d20+10=11 ; Friday March 27th, 2020 12:01:02 AM
'Lil puts a hand on Grindar's shoulder, a subtle gesture showing she was still with him. "I became a part'a this when I agreed to come along, dude." She decides to thread the needle between defending herself and her dudes, and showing some contrition.
"You want to consider us foolish for not realizin' the fancy druidwood boats we heard about came from your druid trees, that's fine. We beat ya to it last night though. But we ain't here now to take anything you ain't giving freely, and none'a us would consider asking or taking for your loved ones anymore than we'd ask to harvest the body of anyone's dead. We're a lot of stupid things, but we ain't ravegers, savvy?"
She takes a moment for her words to settle, then continues.
"New Rattledam's just a shell right now with a colorful cast of characters who don't get along well. Thich and Freakshow were kinda in charge when we left. One's a monk, the other's got a mo-hawk and talks funny. They've started attractin' merchants, most of whom are getting themselves killed trying to reach us.
"My understandin' is Rattledam used to be as much a part of the Sargrass as the Manfri or the Crystal Mountains. Lot of native folks seem to want it back, so that's what we're aiming to do. There's a lot we don't understand about this place, but figured a vessel that could ferry people safely above the grasses would save lives. I'm real sorry about your losses yesterday, hand to heart, but our motives in coming here were right and true and I'd face my god secure in knowin' I was here for the right reason."
Diplomacy to move the needle back to friendly-ish, 11. Hopefully my heartwarming speech gives me an invisible bonus, or my dudes can aid other.
Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour d20+1=11 ; d20+1=10 ; Friday March 27th, 2020 7:02:45 AM
Sol will attempt to aid another (10 on the diplomacy roll!).
"Please, friends, we are not here to take anything from you. We were merely sent out to retrieve druidwood, and having found out what it is, we will not be taking any of it. It would be disrespectful, and we all respect yourselves and the Sargrass. You have made your homes here well before we came along. We wish to learn from you, how you survive in balance with the Sargrass so that we might model it to our fellows, please, think of us as children, awakening to a whole new world and wanting to learn from those that already know."
While slightly stilted an awkward, Sol's speech is in earnest and that comes through somewhat.
Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 29/29 Friday March 27th, 2020 1:25:56 PM
Feeling like he may have spilled the beans, about the Druid wood, a little earlier than maybe he should have, Grindar keeps quiet for the time being.
BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 Friday March 27th, 2020 3:06:19 PM
Bigby realizing there's not much for him to add here. He just adds, "The Sargrass plains are a difficult place for newcomers to survive. And our community has almost been decimated a few times. All we are asking for is help for our people." Bigby doesn't want to say much more since 'Lil has said it better. He just rubs Wolfgangs head out of nervousness.
"What!!?" [DM Jerry] Friday March 27th, 2020 10:36:36 PM
'Lil "gets real" and honest with her comments. Not sugar coating it, but still showing respect. Murnium's eyes settle on him for a bit. The corners of her mouth turn up just for a second.
Bigby expresses how hard it has been for their community. Several druids nod, others look at each other.
Grinder stays silent, but follows the conversation. Quickbud, Myrnium's Ent lowes a branch and places it comfortingly on his shoulder and hums with a low pitched voice.
Sol says very strongly that now that they know where the wood comes from, they will not be taking any of it, and is almost interrupted.
Virgil stands and without hesitation says, "You will take Genyielt's wood, his body."
The shock is palpable. No one could have thought the drama could tick another notch higher, but Virgil's statement does the trick. Murnium rises spinning and trips on her own feet falling back on her backside to face her grandfather.
The Ents shake their leaves with the gravity of the statement.
Finally Biel sums up what everyone is thinking and says, "What!!?"
Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 44/44; CMD: 15 Friday March 27th, 2020 11:50:37 PM
Caelwyn looks up in shock. He was already impressed that the druids hadn't thrown them out - but this was beyond anything he had expected. "But...why? He is clearly one to who you all honored and venerated. We would never want to dishonor him after his passing!"
Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour Saturday March 28th, 2020 5:53:37 AM
Sol looks shocked and is at a complete loss for words... after a moment he seems to catch himself.
"I... I do not think we were expecting that... nor would we want to desecrate him in such a way... it would not be respectful."
He then turns to the others, and speaks low enough that only they can hear.
"We may have to refuse this gift I feel... I do not wish to offend them, even if they have offered this to us... I feel taking it would be a mistake as this may be a test to see if we are true, and even if it is not, I am still not sure I am comfortable with taking his corpse..."
Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 29/29 Saturday March 28th, 2020 9:21:56 AM
When Grindar sees Murniam stumbling, he instinctively rushes forward to try to catch her, failing that, he offers her a hand up. Like everyone else, he is shocked by Virgil’s words, and with uncertainty in his voice he says, ”Sir, your offer is most kind, but are you sure that your friend would want his remains cut into lumber? As my friends have already said we wish to honor the mighty ent, not build boats out of him. My heart breaks still over such a loss, are your words really the right ones? By the time Grindar is done talking, tears are welling In his eyes again.
BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 Saturday March 28th, 2020 2:52:08 PM
"maybe we're looking at this wrong. To me, if my remains can provide safety to my loved ones, It would honor me. But that's just my thought. Just know that his sacrifice to our community will not be wasted. It will save many people. And for your offer, we are grateful. Is there anything we can do in return." This is how it sounds in Bigby's mind, but it may not come out as smoothly to everyone else. There may be some grunts and uhhhhhhs in place of certain words. But hopefully he thinks his sincerity comes across.
Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 44/44; CMD: 15 Sunday March 29th, 2020 9:10:45 PM
Caelwyn continues to wait, curious to hear what Virigil will say. He seems certain, but Caelwyn remains both surprised and uncertain.
'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 18/12/16 - CMD 17 Monday March 30th, 2020 9:48:55 AM
One'a these days, she was gonna have a talk with her dudes about when to let other folks talk. This wasn't their discussion to have.
She simply answers, "if that happens, his sacrifice will save many lives. Seems that ya'll have a discussion to have that our input may not be welcome in by a lotta folks here. Would ya like us to make ourselves scarce so you can discuss'it?"
"Don't 'but grandfather me,' child. I'm not finished." [DM Jerry] Monday March 30th, 2020 11:26:03 PM
Virgil notes that Grinder helps Murnium get up. Our heroes express their own shock at Virgil's pronouncement. But Virgil just stands there, a wan smile on his face. "We were more than friends. We have been bound together for, well since Eberyon created us. I am the last that has fey blood. and Genyielt was the first. I was not his first bound companion. He pulls back his hair to show his ears.
"Burning his wood is our tradition, but I know my Genyielt. He would honor these young ones that carry so much heart....and honor...with his wood and his blessing for it. We have all been surprised by your behavior since you arrived. You are not what we expected. If I guess right, you have become more seasoned by this journey. It should not be for naught.
"Biel, you have finally persuaded me after all this time. But not for anything you have done. It is these young ones from the Second Creation that have changed my mind. I still don't know if we should embrace the Sargrass, fight both it and the Mutation, or fight for a return for our lands. I am comfortable in our lands. But I do know that we must be a part of what comes. It is time to be uncomfortable."
"But grandfather!" Murnium pleads.
"Don't 'but grandfather me,' child. I'm not finished. I will travel with my Genyielt. I will learn with these young ones how to make the boat and then I will captain it! And you will remain here to preserve what we have."
Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 44/44; CMD: 15 d20+11=27 ; Monday March 30th, 2020 11:54:52 PM
Caelwyn stands and faces Virgil. He bows slowly. "I speak in all honesty, Virgil - your wisdom is evident in your words. We are overwhelmed by such an offer."
Diplomacy 27
Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 29/29 Tuesday March 31st, 2020 4:47:45 AM
Grindar's emotions get the best of him, as Virgil shares his intentions, and tears run down his cheeks as he says, "Your kindness is more then we deserve! Once the boat is constructed I say we should christen it the Genyielt, in honor of your friend, who's sacrifice has made this possible!
'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 18/12/16 - CMD 17 Tuesday March 31st, 2020 12:09:34 PM
The last bit raises 'Lil's eyebrow a bit. Virgil was going to captain the ship? To what ends? It wasn't a revelation that upset her, but it did get her curiosity up.
She figures Virgil had the chance to shoo them away when she offered, so she reckons she's free to speak her mind. Emotions were runnin' high, so she keeps hers tempered. "I ain't got much to add, other then to say thank you, Virgil, for your kind words 'bout us. While I wouldn't dream'a telling you what to do with the ship your friend's sacrifice built, I do hope you'll help us bring folk safely to New Rattledam. The place is gonna need capable hands if it's gonna survive."
Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour Tuesday March 31st, 2020 12:20:19 PM
Sol nods along with the others, and while his face shows he is clearly torn between speaking and not, he errs on the side of caution and remains quiet. After all, what more can he say?
BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 Tuesday March 31st, 2020 1:29:59 PM
Bigby learns when to nod and when to speak and this time he just nods affirmatively. A thought comes to his mind and he opens his mouth and Wolfgang snarls at him, so Bigby closes his mouth. He just sticks to nodding.
Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 44/44; CMD: 15 Tuesday March 31st, 2020 9:31:54 PM
Caelwyn's confusion starts to vanish as he thinks on Virgil's words:
"I still don't know if we should embrace the Sargrass, fight both it and the Mutation, or fight for a return for our lands. I am comfortable in our lands. But I do know that we must be a part of what comes. It is time to be uncomfortable."
This druid had lived for countless years. And even he is unsure about the scale of the situation with the Sargrass, and what to do about it. Clearly they were all part of something much bigger now than simply settling a new town in the Sargrass Plains. His vision and help here may be the best hope they have going forward.
Becoming Seasoned [DM Jerry] Tuesday March 31st, 2020 9:43:10 PM
The responses from the party are what is becoming habit. They are becoming seasoned. They are still somewhat inexperienced, but they have become wise.....the leaders that are needed.
Everyone kinda just looks at each other.
Murnian after the long pause says, "Druids and trees. We have things to do." She gets up and heads to her tree. "If I can have a ride, Quickbud, we can return Maab's tools." She gathers the vessels and the staff and a limb lowers to raise her into a lower branch.
Quickbud says, "It's not far, Munian."
Murnian says, "That's not the point."
After a few moments the other druids and trees go to see about other things and perhaps to give the party some room.
Virgil spreads his hands wide and looks at the visitors. "So, comrades, how do you do this?"
Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour Wednesday April 1st, 2020 4:26:45 AM
Sol looks a little awkward. As if unsure, he looks like he's about to say something, but thinks better of it, realising he's not the most diplomatic, and after the emotional shock, he recognises he's probably not the best one to speak, so he looks to Lil.
Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 29/29 Wednesday April 1st, 2020 5:51:07 AM
Grindar is clueless as to what to do next. He can swing an ax sure, but his father was a farmer, not a lumberjack, as such his rudiment learning is farm related. That and the knowledge he gained through training to become a Ranger, and Druid, are really all he knows. He does open his mouth finally and says, "I have no idea as to how we should proceed next, though the monks said they would help. By the way, would there be anyway I could get some armor more befitting a druid? I left home with this steel breastplate, which was my fathers, but I can't seem to feel natures energies while wearing it. Is there some place here I can purchase some hide armor, or something along those lines?
'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 18/12/16 - CMD 17 Wednesday April 1st, 2020 9:15:11 AM
'Lil stopped the druids from taking the healing gifts back.
"Pardon friends, but the voice at that rock pile place specifically asked us to return them. Said it had more to tell us. Not gonna ask you not to come along or nothin'. This is your place, not ours, but we gave our word and I for one intend to keep it."
Regarding the boat, 'Lil has no idea. "Maybe we ask Biel? There was that dude at the museum who had that skiff. Maybe he knows?
"This wood's way too valuable and special to risk screwin' this up, though. We really outta bring it all back to Rattledam somehow where the captain and sailors are." She has no idea how they're gettin' a whole tree back to Rattledam, though.
Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 44/44; CMD: 15 Wednesday April 1st, 2020 9:02:51 PM
"In all honesty, Virgil, none of us are skilled craftsmen. We had hoped to obtain knowledge, or perhaps a small amount of wood. We figured we would cross this bridge when we came to it...which we now have, it seems. I agree with Lil, Biel is the person to talk to first."
Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 44/44; CMD: 15 Wednesday April 1st, 2020 9:02:51 PM
"In all honesty, Virgil, none of us are skilled craftsmen. We had hoped to obtain knowledge, or perhaps a small amount of wood. We figured we would cross this bridge when we came to it...which we now have, it seems. I agree with Lil, Biel is the person to talk to first."
Dude at the Museum? [DM Jerry] Wednesday April 1st, 2020 10:31:35 PM
Biel says to Grinder, "We have no businesses. I'll ask around if anyone has anything they can trade with you or perhaps give to ya. We have some crafters, but that takes time since we'd have to find the hides, and start from the scratch.
Biel yells after Murniun. "Sis! Stop. 'Lil says the voice at the rock formation asked them specifically to return the healing tools. You can come with unless our friends think they should do it alone?"
Murnium stops, is lowered to the ground and says. "Very well." It almost comes out as a question. "Did she give any hint as to why? I'm curious now." She smiles, her head swiveling between 'Lil and Biel."
Virgil says, "Dude at the museum? A skiff?" Here's what I remember from when we were plundered of our wood in the old days. They would....." He pauses a pained look on his face. Then he strengthened his nerve.
"They forced us to use spells to straighten the larger limbs. Sometimes they would split the trunk longways into two halves and make two boats out of one tree. For some unknown reason, when the Sargrass came, it and the druid trees repelled each other. They still do. Very strongly. So if you brought in a druid tree, it would harm the tree, but kill the grass. Some of the grass that moved would actually run away. A dead druid tree; however, floated. Even if the grass was 10-15' tall it would float above it. Normal sails would move the ship. Some rare forms of grass, especially Steelgrass didn't have the repelling property so they would make sails, decks, etc. out of that. Or they brought in wood from outside to finish out the ships using the druid tree wood for the "bones" of the ship.
"Sorry that's about all I remember."
"If we don't need it all, we can still perform the usual rites here with what is left?"
Beil says, "I don't think we'll have a use for the smaller branches, sir. We will perform the rites with them for sure."
Beil turns to the party. "I know nothing of ship building. What made you think I did? The monks sent you to me, right? What did they tell you then? They had a skiff? That's a small boat right? Wait. Was it made of Druid Wood? Did they have anything else useful in that museum of theirs?"
Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour Thursday April 2nd, 2020 4:45:09 AM
Sol nods.
"They did have a small boat, yes. They said it was, but that was their only example, hence why they sent us out to get more. Unfortunately, I also am not a shipwright, so I have no idea the construction skills needed, though I suspect the Monks will know more. After all, they created the one they have on display I would assume..."
'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 18/12/16 - CMD 17 Thursday April 2nd, 2020 8:53:51 AM
'Lil winces as her fears about the druidwood boat's past proves to be true. She tries to provide some comfort to Virgil. "Dude, you have my word that I'll be here to help stop that from happenin' ever again. I'd be shocked if my dudes didn't agree with me."
The mention of the museum jogs her memory. "There was a woman named Edith who offered to help us build a ship in exchange for...well, this was before we realized what druidwood really was. She offered to help us build a boat for some wood of her own.
Current situation makes it tough. You're not really giving us the wood, so we can't give it to her. At the same time, she made it clear she's all business. She won't be helpin' us without a reason.
There were also two monks what let us use that crystal to help find the wood." Her face turns hard. "Given how it was probably used in the past, I ain't in no mood to help them reestablish themselves as druidwood raiders." 'Lil digs through their stuff, looking for that crystal, then hands it to Virgil. "This is how they found your trees. I want you to have it. I think thy forgot how to make'em, so hopefully they won't be trackin' any more trees down this way."
BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 Thursday April 2nd, 2020 12:25:03 PM
Bigby just listens as 'Lil speaks. He had no idea the wood would come from a living being. His mind goes off to hunting now and then, but he tries to re focus back to the discussion and nods when he does.
Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 29/29 Thursday April 2nd, 2020 1:15:47 PM
At the mention of defending the Druid groves, Grindar quickly chimes in, “Anyone who would chose to slaughter such majestic beings, for profit, will face my ax!”
DM Steve -- Among the rocks Friday April 3rd, 2020 12:09:23 AM
Virgil, with apologies to the adventurers, follows the druids to discuss what rites they should perform with Genyielt's branches, carrying the crystal 'Lil gave him. This is an unfortunate duty he must see through now, and it should not wait. Murnian and Biel turn to the party, apparently intending to accompany them back to the rock pile. At her gesture, Caelwyn accepts the vessels and the staff that Murnian had gathered. They walk slowly, while Sol and 'Lil discuss what they might learn about boats and boat-building from the monks, and 'Lil and Grindar provide assurances that they will not countenance the harvesting of druid trees for wood. Bigby realizes he does not want to hunt on what is still a field of battle. People are gathering the bodies as you walk past.
"Maybe the monks are best suited to help," Biel offers on the walk. "From what I recall of the tales, it was mainly the Baron's men who attacked the groves for wood. The Baron isn't around anymore. What were his followers developed into the Harvesters. It took a while to recognize the change, but we have dealings with them at times now."
As you come within sight of the rock pile, Biel and Murnian suddenly stop. "Go on without us. We'll get a place set up for you to spend the night," Murnian says.
As you approach the rocks, the voice that spoke to you earlier returns. "Return the staff. Place the pots where you found them before." As you do so, the voice asks, "Have you made any decisions about the Sargrass?"
Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 29/29 Friday April 3rd, 2020 5:47:25 AM
Grindar answers the voice, "I for one have no desire to leave New Rattledam unprotected, or the Sargrass Plains without a band of heroes. so I will stay, as duty calls me to do so. I hope that someday my since of duty is replaced by feelings of love for this place, and a more intimate desire to protect the plains". He than adds, "You promised to share your name with us upon our return, are you prepared to follow through?".
Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour Friday April 3rd, 2020 5:52:06 AM
Sol thinks for a moment. Looking to his fellows before speaking.
"I wish to live in harmony, and learn from the Sargrass. I do not claim to speak for my friends here, but I think they feel the same way. I have no doubt they will correct me."
He smiles widely, and self deprecatingly, awaiting his friends responses.
Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 44/44; CMD: 15 Friday April 3rd, 2020 9:51:30 AM
Caelwyn stands silent, then says. "I believe you already know what I hope for, that which I have not spoken aloud. But I also wish to protect my friends, and I must fulfill my vow to establish and protect New Rattledam. I believe there must be a way for all to live here, but free of the threat of mutation which the Warper presents us with..."
BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 Friday April 3rd, 2020 11:54:45 AM
Not one for words, Bigby continues, "If the Sargrass gives to us we will receive and be grateful. We will give back to the Sargrass and respect its way of life." Bigby figured thats all he had to say about that.
'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 18/12/16 - CMD 17 Friday April 3rd, 2020 12:24:07 PM "Baron? I don't ever remember hearin' about a Baron. Who was that?"
Later, under the rocks, 'Lil ponders the answer.
"I'm gonna be square with you, magic voice. I still miss the creature comforts of home a whole bunch. I miss my cushy bed and feeling like I ain't surrounded by things what wanna eat me.
But...this place has heart, and people helping each other. I ain't been bored since I got here, no ma'am. I intend to see New Rattledam established with my dudes. After that, can't promise nothin', but I can see myself settling in a town I helped build. That seems satisfying."
DM Steve -- Among the rocks Friday April 3rd, 2020 10:49:22 PM
You all sense that the voice is somewhat disappointed with your answers as she speaks again.
Grindar: Highlight to display spoiler: {I had hoped you would already be able to love this place.}
Sol: Highlight to display spoiler: {Little one, life is not meant to be watched passively. It is meant to be lived.}
Caelwyn: Highlight to display spoiler: {You should not hide your hopes, for that is close to denying them.}
Bigby: Highlight to display spoiler: {The Beastfolk may be the greatest thing the Sargrass has given to date, and you have not yet explained that to your fellows?}
’Lil: Highlight to display spoiler: {Worthy aspirations. But there is a fine line between comfort and complacency that you should not toe.}
I have watched these lands a very long time. The grass has been around since the world was young. The druids will tell you that long ago, this was a forest, and it was. The grasslands were smaller, and fairly contained. But it would be a mistake to consider the grasses an invader as some do. There have been many changes in the Wold. In an earlier age, a small shift in the winds favored the development of a desert in this part of the Wold. And life did what it naturally does.
The voice continues, explaining the history of this area, talking about the grass first adapting to the desert and expanding into new territory so slowly at first that it was not noticed. Telling how a desert people were the first to find harmony with the grass and became the Manfri. . . How a rift among the druids in that age -- and Powers you have not heard of -- created two opposing camps and a dominant culture that considered the grass the enemy of the trees. . . How the grass and the insects came to dominate the region, with the groves scattered like oases in the desert or around its fringes. . . Of the migration of men into the grass, and the development of several different cultures -- the Foundlings, Traders, Monks, Plainswalkers, and Climbers. . . How the Monks and Foundlings built domed villages for protection from the insects. . . Of the Great Migration which rearranged the Southern Continent and grew the Crystal Mountains. It also disrupted the people in the grasslands and led to the swift development of new cultures like the Tall Men and Raiders. . . How Marteus created a personna as the Shadow King, whose most devoted follower, the Baron, gathered a force of men and terrorized the other cultures. Not that the other cultures didn’t struggle with each other. (Even now the druids deny what some of their members did to the Manfri, arguing that those members were not really druids.). . . That it was discovered that the grasses survive the desert conditions because the Woldsblood close to the surface in the region mutated them, which is also what causes trees that are planted in much of the area to become twisted and stunted. And when this was discovered, the “false” druids tried to harness the Woldsblood. . .Of the Sargrass Child and the birth of the Power Sargrass. . . How because of the Woldsblood the gods moved the Sargrass from the Southern Continent entirely. . . Of the Long Wait, which drove many of the peoples of the Sargrass to despair and twisted the thinking of the Sargrass Power. . . How the Sargrass Power mutated the Bloodgrass and threatened the Wold with it. . . Of the battles to contain the Bloodgrass and which ended up dividing the power into the Weaver-Sar, Walker-Sar, and Warper-Sar. . .
Underneath the history lesson, you have a sense that the voice telling you this genuinely cares for the grass. And the forest. And the Druids, Monks, Plainswalkers, Raiders, Beastfolk -- even when she was sometimes disappointed with them.
My closest children have not, for the most part, adapted well to the grass. They will need both protection and wisdom in the coming times. But now, it is time for you to attend the ceremony.
You find yourselves exiting the rock pile, unsure of when you started walking or how long the conversation took. It is, however, earlier in the afternoon than it was when you returned the implements to their shrine. You feel rested and reinvigorated -- so much so that Sol’s wounds have healed -- as if you had both just awoken from a night’s rest and eaten a good meal…
Biel walks towards you from the grove, apparently warned you would be coming. "How was Maab?" he asks, conversationally.
Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 44/44; CMD: 15 Sunday April 5th, 2020 10:45:15 PM
Caelwyn stops and looks in Biel, astonished. "Maab? As in...THE Maab?" He almost seems convinced Biel is about to tell them he was joking.
Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 29/29 Monday April 6th, 2020 1:14:31 PM
Grindar is shocked that he was talking to the one and only Maab. He isn’t sure as to what to think of her words, but he tries to commit them to memory, for the future.
BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 Monday April 6th, 2020 4:02:29 PM
"who's Maab? btw something about beastfolk are beautiful." Bigby goes back to listening.
Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour Monday April 6th, 2020 4:05:56 PM
Sol frowns as he looks over his now renewed body, marvelling out how he's healed. At the mention of Maab Sol looks up.
"Maab? You are joking right?"
'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 18/12/16 - CMD 17 Monday April 6th, 2020 5:19:53 PM "Matronly," is the first word to come to 'Lil's mind. "She's the Queen of the Fey, but she ought to be called the Mother of the Fey. She seems super worried about all of ya."
'Lil doesn't take Maab's disappointment personally. She already had a patron, and decidin' to live somewhere other than the Sargrass once her term was up was her own business. Not that she's decided she'll do that. She was serious when she said the place was growin' on her. Heh...puns.
"Hey Biel, someone said something about me and a moot since I was the first to declare Genyielt dead. Is that a real thing? If I'm supposed ta do something, I want to be sure I honor him."
Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 44/44; CMD: 15 Monday April 6th, 2020 10:26:09 PM
Caelwyn waits to hear how Biel will respond. He doesn't know too much about Maab, but is curious to learn more.
DM Steve -- Among the rocks Monday April 6th, 2020 11:24:08 PM
It's hard to tell if Caelwyn and Sol are more surprised at hearing they were talking with Maab or if Biel is more surprised to hear Bigby ask who Maab is. It throws him off stride for a moment, before he changes the subject. While Grindar ponders what he heard, Biel takes up 'Lil's question first. (The only answer Bigby gets is 'Lil's comment to Biel -- "She's the Queen of the Fey, but she ought to be called the Mother of the Fey. She seems super worried about all of ya.")
"Well, 'Lil, Murnian said you were to to start the moot. I'll explain the duties to you in a bit. First, let me show you where you're staying. You'll want to get ready for the evening's ceremony."
As you walk to the camp, you notice the bodies have been moved. Most of the mutated creatures have been piled in one area. The fallen druids and fey have been carefully laid out in another. Attending the latter, individually or in small groups, are no doubt family and friends saying their goodbyes. You do not see Genyielt, or any fallen trees.
As you walk, Biel mentions that Maab's conversations have been known to take considerable time. Yours was most of a day, probably not longer because she didn't want to keep you from the moot. Biel has spoken with her, and of course Murnian and Virgil have. If you feel a need to talk about what you heard, talk among yourselves or talk to Virgil in coming days.
Biel brings you to an area of the grove that is away from the main path and somewhat secluded. He points one direction and explains where to find water, and pulls 'Lil aside for a moment.
'Lil: Highlight to display spoiler: {Biel explains that Lil's role in the ceremony is to open it by calling for silence and making an announcement that Genyielt has died. After the announcement, she should request Virgil speak. He is likely to be to grief-striken to do so, in which case she should request Murnian do so in Virgil's place. Biel will position her prior to the ceremony, and let her know when to begin.}
After returning with 'Lil, Biel tells everyone, "I will return in an hour or so, when it's time to go. Make yourselves ready according to your traditions."
'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 18/12/16 - CMD 17 Tuesday April 7th, 2020 5:06:42 PM
'Lil's a priest of the god of bravery. She should know how to say stuff at funerals of people, and trees, that died bravely. Truth is though, she's a ton better at the more physical bits'a her job.
She understands the basics enough, though. She's sure she'll manage. "So, we all ready for this?"
Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 29/29 Tuesday April 7th, 2020 5:31:32 PM
Grindar asks Sol if he could use his magic to give him an instant bath, and clean his clothes, as after all the running and fighting, he probably could use it. After Sol’s fresher upper, he has a seat and waits tell they are summoned.
BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 Tuesday April 7th, 2020 5:53:15 PM
"Well I'm worried for us too. Did you know I was once swallowed by a frog? We are learning our ways around here. Maybe we need more of Maab's help." Bigby moves on with the rest.
Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 44/44; CMD: 15 Tuesday April 7th, 2020 11:35:35 PM
Caelwyn cleans himself up, then spends time meditating and praying to Domi alone. He wants his spirit to be prepared for the ceremony.
DM Steve -- We all ready for this? Wednesday April 8th, 2020 12:08:21 AM 'Lil reflects on things she might say, confident that she can handle this role. Grindar and Caelwyn clean up as well as they quickly can with Sol's help. Bigby is still reeling from the conversation with Maab, and Caelwyn is preparing himself spiritually, when Biel returns.
"Are you ready?" Biel leads the group out towards the cleared end of the battlefield, where other people and fey are gathering. The trees have moved throughout the area as well, in lines that radiate away from one central area, smaller trees closer in. There are a number of branches in the area.
Biel leads you directly to the center area, after which you stand around for a while. Biel has brought you ahead of the main crowd, which continues to filter in. It's not long before the crowd has grown to a size you're glad you don't need to squeeze through. You recognize other people nearby from your discussions the morning after the battle, but the crowd that has gathered includes more than were here for the battle. Murnian and the other druids nearby engage you in small talk while you wait, giving you the chance to ask any questions you have about the ceremony or the battle.
Suddenly the crowd parts and lets Virgil through, followed by a few others. After Virgil slowly walks to the center, Biel nods to 'Lil. At the far end of the crowd, more trees gather, forming a large ring around the ceremony.
Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour Wednesday April 8th, 2020 2:47:19 AM
Sol watches in awe, completely enamoured with the process. He tries to hide his excitement at seeing something new but doesn't do so well at it. After a few moments however he manages to compose himself.
Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 29/29 Wednesday April 8th, 2020 5:34:42 AM
Grindar isn't normally one to be impressed by pomp and circumstance, but truly impressed by this ceremony. He wiggles in his seat in anticipation. For reasons he can't even explain to himself, he is finding this to be fascinating.
BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 Wednesday April 8th, 2020 1:51:27 PM "so what happens in this ceremony?" After that Bigby waits and observes.
'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 18/12/16 - CMD 17 Wednesday April 8th, 2020 4:57:14 PM
'Lil takes a deep breath.
"New friends, if I could have your attention please." She tries hard to use proper grammar for once, putting aside her typical affect. "It's with a heavy heart that I must report Genyielt has died, fallen protecting many, including myself and my du..companions. My companions. She blushs, just a bit.
"Virgil, I understand you two shared the strongest bond. Would you care to speak for the fallen?"
She hoped she wasn't inadvertently offensive or nothin'. Was it too on the nose to refer to a dead tree as "fallen"? Oh geez, that did sound bad, didn't it? She hopes no one notices as she waits for Virgil's response.
Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 44/44; CMD: 15 Wednesday April 8th, 2020 10:38:51 PM
Caelwyn smiles to himself. Poor Lil - she would much rather smash some heads for Domi than deal with this, that is plain to him. But she does a fine job, and he is proud of her. He waits to hear what Virgil will say next.
DM Steve -- We all ready for this? d20=12 ; Thursday April 9th, 2020 12:46:03 AM
Before the ceremony begins, the druids tell Bigby that this will be a celebration of the life of Genyielt,
As 'Lil speaks, an expectant crowd falls silent. She handles herself well enough, by their reactions.
When he is called upon, Virgil looks at 'Lil, and the crowd. He stands quietly for a few moments before Murnian moves his way. He waves her off, saying, in a shaking voice, "No. I will not speak for the fallen. I believe I did that well enough yesterday. No friends. . . Let us ALL speak for the fallen."
Murnian moves to Virgil's side anyway, as he breaks down crying. Around the crowd, the trees lower their branches, and you can see they had placed themselves in such a way that the crowd are all able to reach a branch. The druid trees lower their branches for all creatures to reach, and intertwine with each other. Only those in the center must move to find a branch, which the druids around the party quickly do.
Those who turn to a tree: Highlight to display spoiler: {Through the network connecting the entire crowd, the trees communicate in much the way you experienced with Vanja back in Biel's grove. It is as if you are watching memories of Genyielt, but there are too many to concentrate on only one. Some themes nevertheless come through strongly. Genyielt founded this grove. He had many adventures with Virgil. He had been bonded to other druids before Virgil, although those memories are all dim. An argument with Eberyon -- Genyielt’s ability to successfully disagree with the immortal power while never showing the least disrespect is especially remembered. Everyone sees the recent fight from several angles. Underlying everything is a feeling of awe, reverence, and loss. And although the memories center on Genyielt, others are remembered too.}
After a long time, people begin to break away from the trees. As the druids break away, they take the branches that were in the middle of the ceremony, and place them in a pile. Someone says a quick incantation, and the branches catch fire. Only after the fire has died out does the crowd disperse.
Biel leads you back to your camp in the dark, thanking 'Lil for her role in the ceremony.
Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 29/29 Thursday April 9th, 2020 10:28:31 AM
Grindar welcomes the embrace of the Trees, and is blown away by the history of this majestic being. After the ceremony, Grindar walks back to camp in silence, as though he was deep in thought. When he’s alone with his friends he says, “We have some mighty big shoes to fill, if we wish this ship, we intend to build, to live up to the legacy of its source”.
Subbing for Lil (Jeremy) Thursday April 9th, 2020 6:06:11 PM
Lil willingly turns to trees, and is amazed at the life Genyielt lived. She smiles when Biel thanks her, and she is glad that she was able to do right by the old Ent. She is left speechless when she fully realizes the gift they have been given, and nods her head in agreement with Grindar’s words.
BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 Thursday April 9th, 2020 7:49:10 PM
Bigby enjoys the ceremony. To Genyielt Bigby cheers on the way back.
DM Steve -- We all ready for this? Friday April 10th, 2020 12:16:28 AM
When they are alone with each other, the group talks about what they learned about Genyielt. Not until they speak do they realize that the last words they actually heard voiced were Virgil's. They set camp in the spot Biel had showed them, and fall into a restless sleep.
The next morning, after they wake late and tired, Biel greets the party. "Virgil would like to talk to you. After breakfast, please meet him by the rock pile."
At the rock pile, Virgil is sitting quietly. He smiles broadly as the group arrives, in surprisingly good spirits. "Good morning! I've been thinking about what comes next. I think I need your thoughts on the matter. I mean, yes, we will make a boat from Genyielt's trunk -- but I must admit that is not something I know how to do. What do you suggest?"
Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour Friday April 10th, 2020 3:44:32 AM
Sol shakes his head.
"I am not certain either... I mean I am sure I could figure it out... but perhaps if we return from whence we came we can get more information?"
Grindar, son of Grindar (Jeremy) Friday April 10th, 2020 1:15:03 PM
“Well”, Grindar says, “I’m no lumberjack, nor am I a shipwright, but the Crystal Mountain Monks said they would be able to help. I have no desire to lead them here, not that I don’t trust them, but better safe them sorry, so I was thinking, since the wood will “float” on the grasses, what if we tie a rope to the trunk and just tow it behind us. Once it’s floating on the grasses, it should move pretty easily”.
'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 18/12/16 - CMD 17 Friday April 10th, 2020 2:54:51 PM
"That lady who was with the monks agreed to show us how to build a boat, but she had a price. She's all business, and discussin' terms with her will probably be hard for ya as she won't really care that the wood she's after was your friend. Still probably our best place to start."
BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 Friday April 10th, 2020 4:25:28 PM
"think she wanted wood for herself. We used to have a way to speak with the barron who probably knows how to make this, but we lost that when our friend left for another adventure."
DM Steve -- What to do? Saturday April 11th, 2020 12:56:39 AM
Virgil zeroes in on Bigby's comment. "The Baron? I haven't heard of him since the start of the Long Wait. Now, he would want the wood for himself."
After a long pause, Virgil continues, "But we're not talking about the same man, are we? We're going to be working together quite a bit on this project. You learned a bit about me last night, reflected in Genyielt's story. What about you? Where are you from, and how did you come to be here?"
BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 Saturday April 11th, 2020 3:50:20 PM
"mhm, I see." Bigby stops talking and wonders if he has said too much. it's like people find fault in honesty. Will have to think about that more. Bigby let's the humans do the talking for now.
Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 44/44; CMD: 15 Sunday April 12th, 2020 3:09:40 PM
Given that the druid has entrusted them with turning his best friend's body into a boat, Caelwyn believes they owe Virgil every scrap of the truth. "We were originally hired by Duke Abalard Rowan, who wanted us to help found a new settlement here in the Sargrass Plains. He clearly seems intent on spreading his own influence, but I certainly saw no harm in taking the job, or my oath to Domi would have prevented me from doing so."
"I am a servant of Domi, a newcomer to the Southern Continent, honestly. My first and foremost goal, regardless of where I may go, is to do the will of Domi - to live honorably and honestly, to defend the weak, and to protect the innocent from harm. That is who I strive to be, anyway."
'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 18/12/16 - CMD 17 Monday April 13th, 2020 12:02:21 PM
'Lil nudges Caelwyn with her elbow. "Same here," she says, touching the tattoo of Domi's symbol on her chest.
She finds it odd that Virgil didn't comment on the boat lady who wanted druidwood.
Grindar, son of Grindar (Jeremy) Monday April 13th, 2020 1:07:21 PM
“Unlike my friends, I wasn’t hired by anyone to come here, in fact I wasn’t even on the ship that brought them here, or any ship for that matter”, Grindar begins to answer, “I came here sheerly out of a desire to discover new things and places, and maybe make a name for myself. I was teleported here by a Wizard friend of my father., and my biggest desire is to be known as a hero of justice, which is why I serve Pantheon”.
Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour Monday April 13th, 2020 4:42:30 PM
Sol smiles.
"I was hired to come here with the others." He indicates them. "I am here to discover as much as a I can, so one day I can return home and use my magic to help."
He smiles wistfully.
DM Steve -- What to do? Tuesday April 14th, 2020 12:36:02 AM
Virgil listens as Caelwyn, 'Lil, Grindar, and Sol tell their stories, and says that he would like to hear more about them and Bigby. who have clearly become fast friends. But he does not push to hear more right now.
"I seem to have offended you, little one," he says to Bigby. "There used to be a man in these parts who called himself the Baron. His men caused a lot of suffering to just about everyone else, and we don't usually hear titles out here in the grass. But like I said, I should have known you were not talking about him."
"No," Virgil continues, "I am not worried about how to get Genyielt's remains to wherever we are going. We already have volunteers to help with that. I am worried about picking the right spot to go. You have suggested several places -- the monk community, Rattledam, Duke Rowan's domain. I think this is something we need to build in the Sar, not build somewhere else and bring back to the Sar. I think we need to use it to bring communities together. And I need to know your minds on the matter, because I expect you will be helping to make decisions about what we build. So, let's circle back to the question I let myself be diverted from -- where do we go from here?"
Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 29/29 Tuesday April 14th, 2020 5:49:14 AM
Grindar thinks for a bit, then answers, "Ideally I would like to get back to Rattledam, the longer we're away, the more I worry for their well being. Though I'm not sure anyone in Rattledam would know how to build a ship, and we did promise to return to the Crystal Mountains, and being people of our word is important as well, also they claim they have the ability to help, so I would say we should head to the monk community".
'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 18/12/16 - CMD 17 Tuesday April 14th, 2020 12:49:25 PM "We probably should head back to the mountains," 'Lil muses. "Even if that lady's price is too high, we can always say no."
She's not really looking forward to heading back there. The monks were kinda jerks to each other and couldn't really agree on anything. Grindar's right though. Those folks did help'em get this far and it'd be wrong not to return like we said we would.
BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 Tuesday April 14th, 2020 1:06:45 PM
"no not offended. just confused. but quickly learning." Bigby decides to let the others speak about these matters.
Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour Tuesday April 14th, 2020 6:49:58 PM
Sol considers the question for a moment, it was an important one, no doubt. Where to take Genyielt... the monks obviously pointed them in the right direction, and they promised they'd go back, but taking it to Rattledam would probably do more to help unite the Sargrass. He mulls it over for a few moments before speaking.
"I think going back to the monks in the first instance is the right decision. I do not think we have to agree to whatever they say, but we do have to explain ourselves to them at the very least. Then I would suggest moving on to Rattledam. Perhaps we can convince the monks to help us AT Rattledam?"
At this he looks to Lil as she seems to have a way with words and convincing people he was quickly coming to be thankful for and rely on.
sub Caelwyn Tuesday April 14th, 2020 9:51:22 PM
Caelwyn hears the words of the party and nods, agreeing with their logic. "it sounds like to the mountains first. Of course we care and miss for our friends in Rattledam, but we did come out here for the druid wood, and we do need to learn how to build it."
DM Steve -- What to do? Wednesday April 15th, 2020 12:44:58 AM "Well," Virgil says, "with four of you saying to go to the monks in the mountains first, that's where we'll go. And I think we should leave soon. I'm tied to this place, and if I take longer it'll just be harder. If you have any farewells to say, or any business with the grove, you've got until tomorrow morning for that. I'm not going to drag you away at first light -- don't think I'll be able to pull away thar early myself. But meet me back here tomorrow after you've broken your fast and packed."
Virgil lapses into silence. Suddenly he seems a little older and more frail, or maybe he's just worn out and for the moment no longer feels the need to stay in control. After several minutes, he starts gently snoring.
Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 29/29 Wednesday April 15th, 2020 6:03:38 AM
Gindar take the time wander about saying farewell to everyone all the while asking if anyone might have suit of hide armor, preferably masterwork quality, but he'll take what he can get, that he might buy from them, as his steel breastplate is blocking his connection with nature. Almost jokingly, he asks, "Oh, if you have a spare steelgrass breastplate, I suppose I would take that instead". After making his rounds saying farewell, and asking for a new set of armor, he heads out to be by himself for a while. He finds a peaceful place, and begins to pray to Pantheon.
"Lord Pantheon, you know my desire, and have seen my actions, and you know that deep down my greatest desire is to be known as a hero of justice, but I feel something missing in my life. I see Bigby with Wolfgang, and long for a similar relationship with an animal friend, If it is a just desire, then I ask that you lead me in the right path to obtain such a friend"
'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 18/12/16 - CMD 17 Wednesday April 15th, 2020 11:50:52 AM
'Lil wonders if these druids want'er goodbyes. They lost a friend, and are about to lose another one who's gonna desecrate the body.
That's not what she thinks, mind ya, just what she's worried about. She hears Grindar ask about steelgrass breastplates. That's not a bad idea. She waits to see if'e can get him one. She thinks the stuff would work really well with her fightin' style.
sub Caelwyn d20+10=25 ; Wednesday April 15th, 2020 2:46:16 PM
one day will have to find the wla to pay my dues bigby thinks. Other than that, Bigby does some hunting with Wolfgang. survival 25.
BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 Wednesday April 15th, 2020 2:46:43 PM
ooc oops forgot to change the title
DM Steve -- What to do? Thursday April 16th, 2020 12:32:29 AM Grindar's search for hide armor is successful; his inquiries about steelgrass are not. He wanders off to pray.
'Lil watches Grindar's attempts to find steelgrass, although she probably could have predicted the outcome.
Bigby and Wolfgang have a successful hunt that morning.
Caelwyn and Sol disappear for a while -- probably praying and watching the druids, respectively.
Grindar -- Highlight to display spoiler: {Grindar is able to purchase masterwork hide armor for 165 gp if he has it. Further, while he is praying he feels that this is the right approach to take. How long is he willing to continue praying for an animal companion? }
With the morning gone, is there anything else you would like to do at the grove?
Wisdom check DC 10 -- Highlight to display spoiler: {The group did pick up a few items on their way here from the monks.}
Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 18/12/16, CMD 17, HP 29/29 d20+2=16 ; Thursday April 16th, 2020 5:57:26 AM
Wisdom check 16 Grindar, in the back of his mind remembers that they have picked up some things from the monk's But his player can't seem to remember what they are.
Grindar gladly pays the 165 for the masterwork hide armor, and when he realizes that he is getting somewhere with his prayer, he will continue to pray through the night, or as long as it takes. He has never felt anything resembling a response before, as he prayed, and the fact that he realizes he is connecting with the god he serves, drives him on.
Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 16/12/14, CMD 17, HP 29/29 Thursday April 16th, 2020 6:05:15 AM
Changed header due to armor change
Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 44/44; CMD: 15 d20=11 ; Thursday April 16th, 2020 1:14:19 PM
Caelwyn finishes his prayers and gathers his gear, preparing to depart. He gathers any odds and ends the party may have left behind. He also takes time to appreciate the beauty of the grove and the amazing creatures that live there. He has loved seeing trees again - that's one thing he has greatly missed during his time on the Sargrass Plains.
BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 Thursday April 16th, 2020 1:52:10 PM
Bigby becomes one with the earth and meditates for his druidish spells.
'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 18/12/16 - CMD 17 d20+3=14 ; Thursday April 16th, 2020 2:24:17 PM
'Lil also remembers. "There was that stone what pointed to druid wood, yea? I tried to give it back to the druids since it could be used by bad folk, but I don't remember if they took it. That was probably a bit hasty'a me, if I'm being honest."
She checks. Did the druids take it?
Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour d20+2=18 ; Thursday April 16th, 2020 6:53:20 PM
Sol awakens, feeling refreshed and ready to get going, he makes a few more notes in his journal, noting the hospitality and friendliness of these druids, and how they are doing something very kind.
He also writes notes about what he has experienced, and what he hopes it will lead to, i.e. a better understanding of the Sargrass.
DM Steve -- What to do? Friday April 17th, 2020 12:48:11 AM 'Lil, Caelwyn, Bigby, & Sol: Highlight to display spoiler: {'Lil remembers the compass, and realizes she gave it to Virgil.
She also remembers that Bigby had found an amulet on the owlbear. Bigby realizes that he still has it. After checking through everything the party collected on the journey from the stone temple to the grove, it comes to two amulets, a cloak, a handful of gems, and the wings from a giant beetle. Sol is able to determine that both amulets and the cloak are all magic. There were also a few gifts from fey creatures, but those seem to have disappeared or perhaps turned into twigs.
OoC: Those wings were big, and I'm not altogether sure you decided to carry them. }
Grindar does not return before nightfall, after going off to pray by himself.
Grindar: Highlight to display spoiler: {Grindar continues to pray well after dark, losing track of the time. In the darkness, he finds that he is joined by another, comforting presence. As the dawn arrives, he sees that in his vigil he was joined by a white lion.}
The sunrise promises a relatively cool, clear day.
Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 16/12/14, CMD 17, HP 29/29 Friday April 17th, 2020 5:53:47 AM
Grindar is overjoyed at the appearance of the white lion. he gives the beautiful cat a hug and a kiss on it's nose, and says to him,"I shall call you Llew, and we shall walk and fight side by side as friends!" a very tired Grindar, along with his new friend, head back to camp. He is feeling a bit fatigued, but when he reaches over to stroke the mane of Llew, he assures himself that it was more then worth it. Back at camp, Grindar introduces his friends to Llew, who immediately walks over to Wolfgang and begins nudging the wolf in an attempt to get him to play.
Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 44/44; CMD: 15 Friday April 17th, 2020 10:37:12 AM
Caelwyn smiles, greeting their new companion. He is happy for Grindar. He prepares to move out, thanking Domi for their successes and wondering about what will happen once they reach the monks. He is not particularly excited about seeing those monks again, but that seems to be the best place to go.
'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 18/12/16 - CMD 17 Friday April 17th, 2020 12:37:31 PM
'Lil's ok with Virgil keeping the compass. If the monks can be trusted with it, she's sure Virgil will return it. She can't make heads nor tails of the rest of the stuff. She goes to find Sol, hoping he can shed some light on what they are.
*The wings were large enough to be shields, right?
BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 Friday April 17th, 2020 2:33:16 PM
"can anyone figure out what this amulet does?" Bigby shows the group. Wolfgang turns his head towards Llew. Wolfgang's tongue hangs out in approval and he jumps over to Llew. Bigby takes note and chuckles that Wolfgang's found another friend. "Good looking white lion there Grindar. One more to add to the hunting party?"
Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour d20+12=20 ; d20+12=15 ; d20+12=15 ; Friday April 17th, 2020 6:42:10 PM
Sol looks at the amulets and cloak.
"I will have a look at them, see what I can figure out." ((Amulet 1 Knowledge Arcana - 20, Amulet 2 - 15, cloak - 15))
He looks over them, however he doesn't cast any magic to figure out what they are, just trusts his not inconsiderable knowledge.
DM Steve -- What to do? Saturday April 18th, 2020 1:00:33 AM Grindar returns from his vigil with a Llew, to congratulations from Caelwyn and an immediate welcome from Bigby and Wolfgang. Bigby, 'Lil, and Sol examine the items the party has found. Everyone works packing in preparation for the trip later in the morning.
Sol examines the magic items carefully, but is not able to confirm their functions without using magic. One amulet has a medallion made of polished horn, the other one's pendant is a green gem. The cloak is a neutral gray. Sol says that harder parts of animal -- bones, scales, horn -- are often used for protection, such as an amulet of natural armor.
(The wings were about the size of tower shields.)
Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 44/44; CMD: 15 Sunday April 19th, 2020 9:43:31 PM
Caelwyn examines the wings. "Hmmmm...I wonder what it would take to really turn this into a shield...I could make use of it."
Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 16/12/14, CMD 17, HP 29/29 Llew AC 15/14/11, CMD 15, HP 17/17 Monday April 20th, 2020 5:54:10 AM
Grindar suggest that Sol casts detect magic on the Items, and attempt to identify them that way. As Sol is trying to figure out what the items are, he packs his things for the the road. He then play wrestles with Llew until it's time to go.
Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 16/12/14, CMD 17, HP 29/29 Llew AC 15/14/11, CMD 15, HP 17/17 Monday April 20th, 2020 6:01:29 AM
fixed link to Llew
BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 Monday April 20th, 2020 12:27:21 PM
Bigby packs up and gets ready as well. "guess its that time again." Bigby scratches Wolfgangs ear. He's happy Grindars got a friend as well. the more the merrier Bigby thought.
Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour Monday April 20th, 2020 3:03:24 PM
Sol nods looking over the objects.
"I will prepare my Detect Magic tomorrow to double check these magical objects and find out exactly what they do. Until then, we should get underway."
'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 18/12/16 - CMD 17 Monday April 20th, 2020 3:15:22 PM
'Lil agrees. "Ain't got much use for a shield myself, specially one that big. We can figure all that out later. Let's get movin'"
BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 Monday April 20th, 2020 5:00:46 PM
"perhaps we can find a hill and slide on the sheild!" Bigby wonders if he said that outloud. "ahem, I mean like 'Lil said, we don't have much use for something that big." He then looks away.
Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 44/44; CMD: 15 Monday April 20th, 2020 8:26:58 PM
Caelwyn agrees. He slings the wing over his back, and prepares to move out."
DM Steve -- Setting out. Tuesday April 21st, 2020 1:03:20 AM
The party packs and plans to examine their collected finds again the next morning. Virgil wasn't very specific as to a time, but it's about 24 hours since they last saw him when the group heads to the clearing near the rock pile where Virgil said he would meet them.
Only this morning, the clearing is not so clear. Genyielt's body, stripped of its foilage and smaller branches, lies there, nearly seventy feet in length. Flanking him are six trees, and a dozen or more of the fairy diddles are on his trunk. Another tree is off the the side, near a bundle of large branches that have been tied together. Around the trees are a score of druids, talking quietly with each other. The occassional word reaches the party's ears -- such as "haste" or "unseemly." Enough to give the impression that the druids are not happy. Overhead, a couple of eagles circle.
"Where is he already?" asks one of the druids. "Treating Genyielt like this. It just isn't right."
"You know he has his reasons. I'm sure he's trying to give Murnian all the advice he can, and will blame her for his being late," another answers.
Biel, standing off a bit from the others, approaches and says good morning. Quietly he adds, "Pay these folk no attention. I think Genyielt would have wanted this. Look at the trees -- they're not agitated." And Biel can probably tell an agitated tree from one that isn't.
No more than a half hour of uncomfortable conversations later, Virgil appears. He is walking with Murnian and followed by a crowd of well-wishers. When he sees everyone he smiles and greets you all warmly. Watching the eagles, he says to Murnian, "She thought these heroes are the companions I'll need." And Murnian answers, "The council wanted you to have someone from the grove. Be glad they let me choose Thorondir."
If Virgil hoped to leave quickly, the crowd wouldn't let him. Everyone wanted to say their well-wishes, and it was noon before Virgil was given more than breathing space. Not that he seemed to mind. But at last, the time came. "I guess it's time for us to go. Murnian, I know the grove's in capable hands. . . But you know you can always talk to me."
With that, the six trees lift Genyielt's body, and the one the branches. Virgil looks at you and asks, "Ready?"
Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 16/12/14, CMD 17, HP 29/29 Llew AC 15/14/11, CMD 15, HP 17/17 Tuesday April 21st, 2020 5:19:51 AM
Grindar take Biel's words to heart, but when he overhears Vigil and Murnian's conversation, he is lost. He's not sure who Virgil means by "she" and who the blazes is Thorondir, or the council for that matter? However he is ready to go when Virgil is finally ready to depart, and after they have traveled outside of hearing distance, Grindar asks, "Virgil, I don't mean to pry, and I know I shouldn't have been listening in on your conversation, but to whom were you referring to as "she" and who is Thorondir?"
'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 18/12/16 - CMD 17 Tuesday April 21st, 2020 10:21:00 AM
'Lil ponders Biel's words. There's somethin' reassuring about knowing how much good Genyielt can do even after his death. Her body won't be nearly as useful as his without'er soul in it, but she'd take comfort in death if she knew she'd keep making the world a better place after she was gone.
She wonders if Genyielt will float on the grasses as is. Will them trees just be able to push him along instead of carrying him all the way?
BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 Tuesday April 21st, 2020 4:04:15 PM
Bigby takes it all in. He's pretty excited to see the wood float.
Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour Tuesday April 21st, 2020 6:48:04 PM
Sol nods sombrely, as he doesn't want to distract from the rather emotional moment. He doesn't say anything, but is clearly a little disturbed at the whispering, as if he's not sure whether to worry about it or not, but it clearly sets him on edge.
Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- Eagle Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 11 -- HP 13/13 Tuesday April 21st, 2020 7:04:22 PM
Two eagles circle ever lower and fly down and perch on Genyielt. One of the eagles touches its forehead to the trunk, and looks at Virgil. It spreads its wings and bows its head. It then starts to screech and whistle to Virgil. If you understand eagle: Highlight to display spoiler: {Virgil, I am honored to escort you and Genyielt. I miss the days of roosting in the mighty branches. I will keep guard from on high as we set out. Call to me, and I will come quickly and walk with you if you wish.} The eagles with a loud screech take to the air and begin circling again.
Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 27/27 -- Eagle Companion: AC 11 -- HP 13/13 Tuesday April 21st, 2020 7:05:28 PM
fixing header
Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 44/44; CMD: 15 Tuesday April 21st, 2020 8:49:17 PM
Caelwyn looks at the eagles, more curious than surprised. At this point, not much will surprise him. He speaks politely if anyone approaches him, and otherwise watches quietly the proceedings. He understands the druids' concern - he isn't entirely comfortable with it himself, the idea of turning Genyielt into a ship... But if the trees, and Virgil especially, believe it to be right, he he willing to let this happen.
DM Steve -- Setting out. Tuesday April 21st, 2020 10:40:39 PM
The sound starts so low this time that the folks around feel it before they hear it, as the bipedal squirrels start casting from Genyielt's branches.
As the slowly shifting, ethereal sound builds, Virgil takes the opportunity to answer Grindar's questions. "She is Maab, of course. And Thorondir. . . Don't worry, he'll make his own introductions when he's ready."
The air begins to shimmer at the edge of the clearing. But this time as the swirling tube appears, it seems to have little depth to it, and the outer edge is more defined than that of the fey corridor that brought the party here -- darker and denser seeming. The tunnel that forms in the air is fully ninety feet in diameter; opaque, although the color eludes you; and looks about a quarter of a mile long on the inside, even though it has no depth on the outside. This time the shifting harmonics of the humming fairy diddles seem mournful, somehow.
The trees carrying Genyielt enter the tunnel, followed by the rest of the travellers. Virgil pauses before he enters for one last, quick farewell.
Travel this time is not like the last fey corridor. The party has to push with great effort to make headway, making the trip take longer than the apparent distance should take. Still, it is early afternoon when the troop reaches the other end and steps out into a field at the edge of the monk village at Stone Temple.
A shout goes up as the villagers notice a thicket where there was none before. It sounds as if some are calling the guard.
Virgil goes about calmly thanking each of the trees by name as they place their burden down.
Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 16/12/14, CMD 17, HP 29/29 Llew AC 15/14/11, CMD 15, HP 17/17 Wednesday April 22nd, 2020 6:51:58 AM
Grindar shakes his head to try to get the cobwebs out and to make sure he isn’t seeing thing as they arrive at the Monk’s home. ”I’m not sure I’ll ever get used to that whole fey corridor travel thing!”, Grindar says to no one in particular then remembering that this was Llew’s first time, he looks his white maned friend in the eyes and asks, ”Are you OK buddy?” Llew answers by giving him a sand paper rough cat kiss, as Grindar gives the marvelous cat a bear hug. When he hears the call for the guards, Grindar steps forward and says, ”Don’t worry, It’s just us!”
'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 18/12/16 - CMD 17 Wednesday April 22nd, 2020 9:45:36 AM
'Lil remembers how much work it was gettin' from this place to their final destination. She's super glad the walk was shorter this time, even if it did feel like they was walkin' uphill. There's a joke in there 'bout walking up hill both ways like her gramps used to say. She chuckles, missing the old fart. She wondered what ma was up to now that she wasn't around to pick up. Hopefully she'd spent enough time sober to pay rent and clean the kitchen.
She shakes her head, clearing the thoughts and focusing on the matter at hand. She stands, arms folded across her chest, as she waits for someone to let'em in. She wonders how upset they're gonna be when they find out she gave that compass to Virgil. The druids had every right to hold onto something that can be used to track down and kill their trees, and she didn't feel guilty 'bout giving it to Virgil. She just hoped they'd still help.
Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 27/27 -- Eagle Companion: AC 11 -- HP 13/13 Wednesday April 22nd, 2020 10:38:22 AM
As the shimmering tube starts to close, two eagles fly into it as Virgil steps in.
Stepping out of the tunnel with the group is an elf with an eagle on his shoulder.
"I'm Thorondir, the council has asked me to come and watch over Genyielt's final journey." He then starts to talk to the wolf and lion, seeming more interested in how they are doing than the people they accompany. If you can understand the language of the animals: Highlight to display spoiler: {Thorondir casts speak with animals and talks to each in their own language: "I am Thorondir, a druid from the grove. How are you? Do you come as you wish, or are you compelled by a master? If ever you are in need you can come to me. I have seen too many times people mistakenly believe they are the master."}
BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 Wednesday April 22nd, 2020 12:10:44 PM
Wolfgang responds to Thorondir Highlight to display spoiler: {These guys aren't bad. I've fought beside them for some time and I've only seen good things amongst these creatures. As for Bigby, him and I are bonded. He's no more my master than I am his. But we are one pack. I think the humans call it brothers. They call him a beastfolk.}
Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 16/12/14, CMD 17, HP 29/29 Llew AC 15/14/11, CMD 15, HP 17/17 Wednesday April 22nd, 2020 1:16:41 PM
Llew responds to Thorondir, ”I’m new to this pride, but they seem pretty cool so far. The half-orc is my friend, and I’m willing to lay down my life for him, and I know he feels the same way, we have a bond like that”.
In Druidic, Grindar addresses the new comer, ”Welcome to our pack/pride, I appreciate the fact that your an animal lover, but it is kinda rude to ignore us two leggers.
Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour Wednesday April 22nd, 2020 6:07:57 PM
Sol simply looks confused and exhausted as he emerges from the Fey Corridor. The exhaustion comes from the apparent exercise that his frail body is not used to, and the confusion at the newcomer talking in a language he really doesn't understand. He takes a deep breath and sits down to get a rest.
"The was rather difficult... for a short period it would have been fine, but that was long old slog..."
Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 44/44; CMD: 15 Wednesday April 22nd, 2020 8:20:37 PM
Caelwyn looks Thorondir up and down, nodding in response to his greeting. "Welcome. We appreciate whatever help you can provide."
He turns briefly to Virgil. "We will do our best to communicate to the monks and all others what an important sacrifice this is for you. I promise that I will do all in my power to ensure that Genyielt's body is treated with respect. But I cannot guarantee that they will be able to fully understand, or see anything other than the trunk of a tree."
DM Steve -- Stone Temple village Wednesday April 22nd, 2020 9:46:09 PM Attius found it difficult to focus around the young woman, so he looked at the corner of the room. He wished he had managed to come up with an excuse to be elsewhere as quickly as Flitch had. He could tell the impact she would have on the community. . . "I'm sorry, miss. We don't know where the realm of the beastfolk is -- so we can't return you there. However, the caravan on the eastern edge of town plans to leave in about a week. Perhaps if you travelled with them, you could find what you're looking for." Attius wasn't even sure that there was a kingdom of the beastfolk. Certainly he'd never heard of one. Although until recently he hadn't heard of beastfolk at all, and yet here they were.
Then the call came for the guard to assemble. Attius grumbled to himself as he hurried out of the office. The young lady followed him, but he didn't look back and see that. And really, knowing that she was going to "help" again wouldn't have made him happier.
Attius headed south, where the commotion was, catching up with the members of the watch who were preparing to repel any invaders. Before he reached the edge of town, he could see there were trees in the field they'd just cleared. Half a dozen trees, accompanying half a dozen people. A couple of dangerous animals. Druids had come, clearly. One was lying on the ground. None appeared threatening.
He'd sent a group of adventurers looking for druids just weeks ago. Maybe this group would have news. Attius left the guard at the edge of the village and started crossing the fields.
=====
Aside from Grindar shouting a greeting when he hears cries of alarm, the party pretty much ignores the commotion in town. Grindar, Bigby, and Thorondir get to know each other; 'Lil is lost in her thoughts; Sol all but takes a nap; and Caelwyn talks to Virgil about approaching the monks.
For a few minutes, a small force of defenders gathers in the village, until one man leaves it and heads towards the party. When he's about halfway there, he recognizes the party and they see he is one of the village administrators. "Calvin, Grindar, it's good to see you!," he calls. As he gets closer, he adds, "You brought others with you. Does that mean your mission was successful?"
Akuno Neko (Ken) AC 15 / CMD 17 - 20/20 Hp Thursday April 23rd, 2020 4:11:03 AM
Poor Akuno Neko. Stomping along behind Attius, the small cat-folk hops up and down constantly, trying to keep her head above the grass. Beastfolk weren't a tall people, and Akuno was not counted as tall among them.
Every time she opened her mouth to protest, however, another bug or weed or other sufferance either flew inside, or smacked it closed. Red faced and overwhelmed, she plops down into the grass and crosses her arms, an angry ball of black and red lace with perky ears and a tail that swished wildly. "Attius!" she shouts, balling her fists. "Hey! Don't just leave me here!" She sniffles loudly, then dabs her eyes with her tail. "Jeez, I'm here to help and you keep trying to ignore me!" Climbing to her feet, she bobs along through the grass until she nearly runs into his back.
Only then does she notice the whole group of new arrivals. Her hair is long and well combed, her furry ears are a light, sandy tan. She is decked from head to toe in frills, silk ribbons, and lots of fine lace. To be honest, she looks more like she belongs at a dance than out here in the Sar.
Eyes full of surprise, she quiets down, and slinks back behind the man. She cups her hands to her mouth and whispers out loud. "Who are they?" Her eyes lock onto the dog person, who seems to be consorting with an even bigger and mangier dog thing. Her tail puffs a little and one eyebrow raises with suspicion. "That one seems disreputable. Need help? I'll take the slobbery one. You take the rest."
Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 16/12/14, CMD 17, HP 29/29 Llew AC 15/14/11, CMD 15, HP 17/17 Thursday April 23rd, 2020 6:50:35 AM
Grindar smiles at Attius, as he and Akuno arrive “Good to see you my friend!”, The oversized half-orc says with a smile, “Who’s your feisty friend?” “As to the success of our mission, I think it wise we talk in a more private local”, Grindar answers.
'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 18/12/16 - CMD 17 Thursday April 23rd, 2020 9:31:39 AM Do catfolk and dogfolk not get along? The thought hadn't popped into 'Lil's head before, but there it was. Another thought pops into'er head. Did these monks know what druid trees were when they sent her and her dudes to fetch some?
She wonders why good thoughts don't pop in her head, only bad ones. She shakes it off.
"Yea Attius, this is our new friend Virgil. We should really go talk about some stuff." She looks around. "Sorry if we startled everyone!"
Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 27/27 -- Eagle Companion: AC 11 -- HP 13/13 d20+6=7 ; Thursday April 23rd, 2020 10:34:08 AM
[confused at the new surroundings, Thorondir uses his perception skill = rolls natural 1]
Nodding as the wolf and lion respond to Thorondir, he turns to the others. "These creatures speak well of you, they say you are good and trustworthy. Pardon my suspicions, but I have seen too much cruelty as of late. Yes, as the orcish one has surmised I am a druid that looks after the natural animals. (he looks at the beastfolk with some confusion and concern) Since you have proven worthy, I will also look after you as well."
As the commotion in town starts to build, Thorondir shrugs his shoulder and the eagle launches into the sky. He flies in quiet circles far above them. Thorondir steps toward Genyielt and puts a hand on the trunk of the once mighty tree.
BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 Thursday April 23rd, 2020 11:39:32 AM everything rushes Bigby in an almost overwhelming manner. Another beastfolk? He'd only met one other beastfolk before, and the name eluded him. He will have to ask her of her experience with her heritage sometime. Not knowing much of his, maybe he'd learn something from her. And the druid with the eagle seemed alright. ok, time to talk I guess. Bigby looks up to Thorondir and says Welcome, my name is Bigby and this is Wolfgang. Seeing Thorondir walk over to Genyielt, Bigby backs away in respect. Bigby scratches Wolfgangs ear and wonders when the next hunt will happen.
Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 44/44; CMD: 15 Thursday April 23rd, 2020 8:42:00 PM
Caelwyn winces at Attius' mispronounciation of his name, but lets it slide. "Greetings, Attius! Pardon our sudden appearance."
He glances at Virgil and the trunk of the great tree. "We have much to tell you, but Grindar is right. We should speak in private. And it is of great importance that these remains you see before you, which appear as an immense tree, are treated with respect."
DM Steve -- Stone Temple village Friday April 24th, 2020 1:10:49 AM
Attius doesn't miss that three of the party say he needs to talk with them in private. But before he is able to say anything, he registers, "I'll take the slobbery one. You take the rest.""Wait, miss. I know these people."Most of them, anyway."Miss Neko, may I present Grindar, 'Lil, Bigby, Calvin. . . and the man sleeping there is Sol. They are heroes who helped us out, and know the Sargrass better than most. Heroes, this is Akuno Neko. She has also -- uh -- helped." Attius falters in his introduction.
Virgil steps in quickly. "Attius? I'm Virgil. That's Thorondir. And these are Lisaraelk, Fagales, Quercus, Lithocarpus, Grevillea, Casuarinaceae, and Virentes." It takes a moment to realize he is naming the trees that carried Genyielt. "I hope you don't mind, but they will be staying here a day or two. I will be staying a bit longer. Would you let your folks know that we're no threat, then come back for that talk?"
Attius agrees, and heads back to the village for a few minutes. While he is gone, Virgil says, "Our friends will see that Genyielt is left alone by the village while they're here. I think that this is a private enough spot for our first talk. And what should we do about Miss Neko?"
Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour Friday April 24th, 2020 2:40:31 AM
Sol starts awake, a look of embarrassment washes over his face, and he stands up, his head downcast for a moment as he mumbles.
"I am sorry... the journey was apparently more tiring than I thought..."
He sighs, takes a deep breath, and then stands straight, a smile breaking out across his face.
"However it is good to see a familiar face."
Grindar, Son of Grindor (Jeremy Canaday) AC 16/12/14, CMD 17, HP 29/29 Llew AC 15/14/11, CMD 15, HP 17/17 Friday April 24th, 2020 5:19:14 AM "Glad to meet you Miss Neko", Grindar says as he gives a slight bow of acknowledgement to the catfolk lass. He then turns to Attius and says, as he points to Genyielt's remains:
"This is the remains of a valiant individual who fought to save many though it cost him his life in the end. He was also Virgil's closest friend and older and wiser than most. Had we known that Druid Trees are of a sentient nature, we would never had taken this mission. To harvest their timber would be nothing short of murder, and so we will not be revealing the location of the Druid's Grove. I am willing to accept that you were also ignorant of the sentient nature of Druid Trees and leave it at that, as I can't imagine you would sanction the murder of such amazing individuals. That said, Virgil, and some of his brethren believe that Genyielt would want his remains to be put to good use, and so we brought them here, in hopes that your people may be able to help us build a ship we can use to help those in need as well as help new settlers arrive safely to their destination.
Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 27/27 -- Aewen: AC 11 -- HP 13/13 d20+5=14 ; Friday April 24th, 2020 12:52:57 PM
Aewen flies in slow circles looking down, he is hunting for a Prairie Swallow or something of that size to eat. (perception check 14)
Gentle tapping Genyielt, Thorondir looks up to see how Aewen if faring. It is clear that being around others is a new and not so refreshing change for Thorondir.
Looking to the group, he speaks to them all: "Please let me apologize. I am not accustomed to being around so many different folks. The trees and the animals I feel more at ease with. The Wold has changed so much since my youth, when people would breed with orcs, halflings and elves. Now it seems the animals have somehow been breed with people as well. I don't understand how cats and dogs can have offspring with people, but I see that it is so. Pardon my astonishment."
Realizing that his words did little in the way of an apology, he finishes with: "Clearly, I am not good at apologies. I will see though that Genyielt is treated with respect."
Feeling more at ease with the trees and Virgil, Thorondir stays by Genyielt.
BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 Friday April 24th, 2020 1:11:56 PM
Watching Aewen hunt, Bigby feels a sense of amazement and envy. How amazing it must be to hunt flying in the wind Bigby waves at Neko. Bigby responds to Thorondir, "they call us beastfolk. It's nice to see more animal lovers here." Bigby listens to Grindar's message and nods in agreement.
Akuno Neko (Ken) AC 15 / CMD 17 - 20/20 Hp Friday April 24th, 2020 1:53:04 PM
As Attius slips away to placate his folks, Akuno is suddenly very much exposed. She stands up straight, dusts off her dress, and clasps her hands behind her back like an old general on the parade grounds. She twitches a little when Virgil ponders what to "do" with her. "Hey!", she protests, tail all twitchy. "I'm not a stray cat here. You don't do something about me like a dog does something about fleas!. She stares at Bigby for a second, and when he waves hello, she responds with crossed arms and a "Hmph!"
She then points an imperious finger at Virgil.
"I've been a big help to Attius since I got here." She smooths out her dresses ruffles, then starts counting off her good deeds. "The houses around here are all dirty, so I've had my unseen servants sweep them out. The drinks here are too hot, so I've used my spells to cool them down. The food here isn't seasoned, so I've used cantrips to spice it up. The boxes here are too heavy, so I've thrown em' on my princess pallet to lug em' around.. AND no one puts their name on anything, so I've arcane marked everything of value so they know it belongs to the town." One cute little fang pokes out from her smug smile. "I've even been kind enough to stay with Attius in his house for awhile to let him know how he could run things more efficiently."
When Thorondir apologizes, Akuno looks both horrified and scandalized. "Thats .. we.. that's not how it works! How lewd!" And well, when Bigby doesn't correct him, her eyes get wider. "I..I.. Look, I'm not quite sure WHERE beastfolk came from, but I promise our parents aren't animal lovers quite like you are thinking!"
Suddenly she whips out a fan and airs herself. Regaining her composure, she looks up at the sun with a frown. "Parasol please.", she says. A lacy purse opens at her side, and a red parasol pops out, then opens to shield her from the sun. "Thank you servant!" Her voice is pleasant, and her pleasure genuine. She pats some invisible thing on top of its head before she looks back to Virgil.
"So I'm basically this towns local hero. If something important is happening, I should be a part of it. Until I find my kingdom, I've decided to be as helpful a princess as I can be. One does not earn the adoration of her subjects by ignoring people in need. Rulership is servitude, after all.", she says, with what she considers to be the perfect imitation of kind nobility.
'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 18/12/16 - CMD 17 Friday April 24th, 2020 4:12:43 PM
'Lil realizes her mouth is hangin' open. Just a little, but still. She's taken aback for a bit, were all catfolk like this?
She also wonders if this girl's met any actual royalty before. They weren't usually so keen on gettin' their hands dirty. She shakes the thoughts off as Grindar finishes the quick version of their story. "There was a lady here, real business like. We had sort of an arrangement with her, but the fact that these trees is so special changes things. We should square up with her regardless."
"...and who knows? Maybe she'll be a help afterall." She thinks this last bit to'erself.
LOG ON