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Cat Homes

DM Kathy
Thursday May 21st, 2020 2:08:58 PM
[Everybody take 26,000 XP for the previous scene.]

In the morning, you perform your usual rituals. Bliss casts a Heroes' Feast for the party, an Pressi casts an additional one for your hosts. The kobolds seem a little leery of their feast at first, but eventually they seem to enjoy it.

You bid farewell to your hosts and set out on your journey.

The temperature climbs as you travel. It gets quite warm in the jungle, and you have reason to be glad of the insect repellent you bought from the kobolds. Perhaps it's the heat, or the thick growth, or the fact that you're really not in any kind of hurry, but you find that the sun is going down long before you reach the plains.

Of course, that isn't an issue for such experienced adventurers. You soon have a camp set up and are making an evening meal and setting watches for the night.

Survival DC 25 Highlight to display spoiler: {Something about this area is poking at your brain. There's something you need to notice, but you can't figure out what it is.}

Survival DC 40 Highlight to display spoiler: {You realize what it is about this area that's been pulling at you. It isn't something you see; it's something you don't see. There is no sign of ocelots in this area. It's a good area for them, but there don't seem to be any hereabouts.}

Bliss HP154/154 AC32 | Mookie HP76/76+12 AC40 | Cayzle d20+17=36 ;
Thursday May 21st, 2020 3:35:13 PM
survival check ... 36!

Bliss has a hint that something is up. He turns on his shield of faith and warns his friends. "Heads up folks!"

He turns into a cat and tries to smell stuff.

Mookie launches into the air to see what he can see.

Kezzem (BrianW) - AC 32; HP 174/174; Rumpus AC 29 HP 74/74
Thursday May 21st, 2020 4:11:55 PM
"What's that Bliss?" asks Kezzem. "Did Hobie fall inna well again?"

Bliss HP154/154 AC32 | Mookie HP76/76+12 AC40 | Cayzle
Thursday May 21st, 2020 5:52:04 PM

Bliss falls down prone, laughing.

"Arf arf ruff!" he meows (since he is in cat form).

[OOC: If I die because I'm prone when the vampires attack, it is all your fault, Brian!]

Tali (JonPaul) AC:25 (T:21, FF:20), CMD:35, Saves:(F:14/R:16/W:17), HP:101/101 TMP HP +13 d20+3=4 ; d20+3=4 ; d20+11=25 ; d20+21=27 ; d20+18=19 ;
Thursday May 21st, 2020 10:11:49 PM
The Long Journey to the Plains

By herself, Tali can't figure out what is the cause of the alarm, but since Bliss, raised the call the arms, Tali will fly 15 feet up into the air while she puts her goggle onto see into the darkness, scanning the horizon, looking for the source of the calamity!

"Where's Moma, can she sense anything?"

Tali will try to perceive what is the situation. {Skill Check: Perception: 25} In case it is a magical event, she will see if this is something she has come across before...{Skill Check: KNowledge Arcana: 27} Then using her newest skill; Gather Information; she will take everyone's reporting into consideration while adding her own for final analysis. {Skill Check: Gather Information:19} She can't figure it out! Must be this humidity!

Spell in Effect
Mage Armor - 900 of 900 Minutes
Overland Flight - 900 of 900 Minutes

Hero's Feast:
You bring forth a great feast, including a magnificent table, chairs, service, and food and drink. The feast takes 1 hour to consume, and the beneficial effects do not set in until this hour is over. Every creature partaking of the feast is cured of all sickness and nausea, receives the benefits of both neutralize poison and remove disease and gains 1d8 temporary hit points + 1 point per two caster levels (maximum +10) after imbibing the nectar-like beverage that is part of the feast. The ambrosial food grants each creature that partakes a +1 morale bonus on attack rolls and Will saves and a +4 morale bonus on saving throws against poison and fear effects for 12 hours.

Temp HP

1d8+6 = 13

CatBliss HP154/154+7 AC33 | Mookie HP76/76+14 AC40 | Cayzle d8+6=7 ; d8+6=14 ;
Thursday May 21st, 2020 10:19:32 PM
Extra post for heroes' breakie ...

Bliss: +7 temp hp
Mookie: +14 temp hp

Also note: Standard cast before moving out: Threefold Aspect for both; Barkskin for both, recast after 4 hours. Updated sheet link above for CatBliss.

Murphy Leafwin Pipewood (KimMc) Halfling Druid - AC 33/T-23/Fl-29 CMD 37 HP 132+7temp d8+6=7 ; d20+40=42 ; d20+25=38 ;
Friday May 22nd, 2020 3:25:35 AM
Murphy senses something, so casts owl's wisdom followed by commune with nature. Guided now by wisdom and his druidical weave with nature, focuses first upon what seems out of the ordinary about this particular locale. Having been in the jungle for a few days now, he has a relative sense of the 'ordinary' so far. Is there a powerful force in the area where they set up camp? Some unusual creature or creatures. What seems most salient? He reaches out for the first mile radius, and the second... eventually probing as far away as 15 miles from where he sits, a halfling druid in a little 3' diameter patch of earth he has made by momentarily clearing the vegetation.

Earlier he had thought to see how far out were the plains, and whether any lions might be nearby. But he gave up that notion due to what he was feeling. "I open myself to you, Cthonian selva, beautiful land of lush life. Is something here that ought not be, or something not here that ought be? Or is there no 'ought'? Bring me in. Open my eyes to behold."
===========
Perception: 42
Survival: 38 (plus whatever bonuses in this case commune may provide??)

Succotash (Jeremy) AC 31/16/29 CMD 21 HP 106/106 Valerie AC 37/15/32 CMD 28 HP 100/100 Spells d20+11=19 ; d20+22=24 ; d20+9=12 ;
Friday May 22nd, 2020 5:57:13 AM
Succotash too is oblivious to what may be going on, but he trusts his friends intuition, and waits to see what the jungle has to say to Murphy. He walks over and strokes Valerie behind the ear vents for a bit, keeping an eye out for anything unwelcome. (perception 24) he whispers to Valerie, "Keep your guard up girl!", Valerie then sniffs the air for anything off (perception 12)

Spells active, and other daily stuff:

Succotash
Dimensional Hop 150ft/150ft
Speak with Animals 18/18
Hero's Feast 3+6=9 temp HP

Valerie
Hero's Feast 5+6=11 temp HP

Hero's Feast:
You bring forth a great feast, including a magnificent table, chairs, service, and food and drink. The feast takes 1 hour to consume, and the beneficial effects do not set in until this hour is over. Every creature partaking of the feast is cured of all sickness and nausea, receives the benefits of both neutralize poison and remove disease, and gains 1d8 temporary hit points + 1 point per two caster levels (maximum +10) after imbibing the nectar-like beverage that is part of the feast. The ambrosial food grants each creature that partakes a +1 morale bonus on attack rolls and Will saves and a +4 morale bonus on saving throws against poison and fear effects for 12 hours.

Pressi (Melvin) - AC 25 (30), HP 111(125), CMD 24; Harper AC 30 (31), HP 85 (99), CMD 29 (34) d8+6=14 ; d20+18=27 ;
Friday May 22nd, 2020 10:44:12 AM
Survival 27, but I can�t highlight on my phone and I�m away from my computer.

If desired, Pressi can use the roll for tracking using her Justicar skill.

As of now, she continues to fly while casting spectral hand.

DM Kathy
Friday May 22nd, 2020 3:50:27 PM
Many of you sense that there is something about this area you should notice. Something important. Something that's been on your mind. But you can't put your finger on it.

Murphy tries to commune, to figure out what it is. It doesn't take you long before you spot it, and you nearly laugh aloud with the relief. This area, where you are camped, is a good place for ocelots. But there has been no sign of ocelots for miles. No clawed branches, no droppings, no anything. In fact, attuned as you now are to your surroundings, you are confident that there are no ocelots for at least a mile in any direction.

Pressi (Melvin) - AC 25 (30), HP 111(125), CMD 24; Harper AC 30 (31), HP 85 (99), CMD 29 (34) d8+6=14 ; d20+18=27 ;
Friday May 22nd, 2020 3:55:55 PM
Survival 27, but I can�t highlight on my phone and I�m away from my computer.

If desired, Pressi can use the roll for tracking using her Justicar skill.

As of now, she continues to fly while casting spectral hand.

Kezzem (BrianW) - AC 32; HP 174/174; Rumpus AC 29 HP 74/74
Friday May 22nd, 2020 5:34:54 PM
"There's something!" says Kezzem as he points at nothing. "Ha, it was nothing! What a relief!"

"Wait, something doesn't feel right."

Murphy Leafwin Pipewood (KimMc) Halfling Druid - AC 33/T-23/Fl-29 CMD 37 HP 132+7temp
Friday May 22nd, 2020 8:35:38 PM

Murphy does laugh aloud. "Look at that tree trunk over there, hollowed out it is, and a mostly hollow log lying next to it - wouldn't this place be a perfect spot for Lio and Nia, the ocelot siblings?" He claps his hands together. "That was it! This could be their new home! I'm going to plant an oak here. I'll travel home now, tell them we found a place, and they should be ready to leave in a few days. I'll come back within an hour or two, we'll get Mowa where she needs to go sometime tomorrow or the next morrow. When we swing by here again, we'll get the ocelots, and let them sniff around. Weeeee!"

"So, anyone want to come with me? Did you leave your favorite pair of socks back in Humble's Ford? I can take a few of you along. No dawdling once we get there. Two hours from when we get to our town to meet back at the oak between town and the Sanctuary, and come back here. Agreed? Who's coming with?"

As people decide, the halfling druid looks about for a good spot to plant an oak tree. Right, right, this is not their typical habitat. But the oak will have to get used to it. He finds a place about 50 yards away from the hollow log, where there is a scattered clearing with few leaves overhead. He takes out a feather token, and launches it carefully toward its landing spot, jumping back after launch. Bang! Up springs a huge and fully mature oak. "Welcome to Cthonia!" he says in the Sylvan tongue.

Once he has assembled those who want to go along - and he decides to take Sugar the pony back home, too - he has them gather together around the oak. He blindfolds Sugar so she does not get skittish about walking right inside and oak.

Then he rides Sugar - and maybe a few can join him in the ride - back to Sanctuary. He greets his friends - Hazel and others, and finds the menagerie.

Speak with animals. "Hey Lio. Hey Nia. We found a beautiful place in the jungle. Hollow logs to explore, beautiful vines, critters that you might find tasty, others maybe to make friends with. It seems the perfect place for ocelots such as yourselves. We wanted to give you a few days to prepare before you leave. Or, you could come right now. We leave in about an hour to go right back to the perfect place for ocelots in the jungle. What do you think?"

"Oh, Rosehips! You're here, too!" he says to his sister Leska. He gives her a kiss on each cheek. "Have all the critters been behaving themselves? How are the monkeys?" If Pressi decided to come along, he lets them catch each other up on the news.

Pressi (Melvin) - AC 25 (30), HP 111(125), CMD 24; Harper AC 30 (31), HP 85 (99), CMD 29 (34)
Friday May 22nd, 2020 9:08:52 PM
Pressi for one does not laugh with relief. Disruptions of nature - and missing animals - have always been a rather sensitive topic for her.

"Are we sure we want to release the ocelots here?" she messages Murphy. "What if something happened to the original ocelots... and it comes back?"

CatBliss HP154/154+7 AC33 | Mookie HP76/76+14 AC40 | Cayzle
Friday May 22nd, 2020 11:59:41 PM

"Mister Murphy, if this is such a good place for medium cats, why aren't there some here yet? Can we check for predators or something? Maybe speak with local animals and plants? Commune with nature? You know from this stuff, my old friend!"

Murphy Leafwin Pipewood (KimMc) Halfling Druid - AC 33/T-23/Fl-29 CMD 37 HP 132+7temp
Saturday May 23rd, 2020 9:35:47 AM

With counsel of friends, Murphy answers, "Sure, we can check it out further. All right, let's explore a bit before issuing the invitation. An area search, centered here." He lays out a plan to search the area systematically. "Shall those of us who can fly, do so? Do a flyover of the area within a mile radius, and see if anything outstanding or untoward shows up? I can map out what we find. If we can avoid disturbing local critters too much, that might be discreet. Can we get a couple of message spells up just before we start the search? And Bliss, I just got done communing with nature. Nature told me she would like some ocelots here, and they would like it here, too. But chatting up the local flora and fauna - yeah, not a bad idea. Only thing is, though I can speak with animals today, I'd have to wait until tomorrow to enjoy vegetable talk. How about you? You want to talk with the trees? Say, I could awaken a local tree to serve as a kind of friend and guardian to the ocelots. That would take a full day, but I have the spell memorized. And Mowa doesn't want it. But first, let's take a good look together.

"Hobie, you want to organize this?" he asks, now that he's laid out a search plan already - but not who is doing what. To all he says. "I think we may want to try to avoid killing anything around here, though. Since the local jungle told me it's a good place for ocelots, we don't want to make it a worse place for them." As soon as Hobie or whoever else recommends who does what, then Murphy sets out to play his part in the area survey.

Hobie (Nick T) HP 126/126 AC 32 Touch 18 Flat 27 CMD 33 Hero Points 8 Prepared Spells
Sunday May 24th, 2020 3:28:28 PM
"I don't know too much about what tasks need to be done. I'm no nature guy. Don't we need to just take the lion to a good place and let her go? And let the ocelots go here? Then we can get moving to where the old kobold lady told us about?"

Murphy Leafwin Pipewood (KimMc) Halfling Druid - AC 33/T-23/Fl-29 CMD 37 HP 132+7temp
Sunday May 24th, 2020 7:29:07 PM

"Sure, Hobie, more or less," Murphy replies. "But Pressi and Bliss have asked for more information than what communing with nature has revealed. Look, gang, explore with me if you wish - which is what you've requested. My spell let me know this is a great place for ocelots. As you requested we check it more closely, we can run a grid pattern over a square mile, divided into four quadrants of 880-yard squares, centered on where we are. I'll start from the upper left quadrant and scan it in a flyover. If someone wants to take the upper right, someone else the lower right, and a fourth person or team to scan the lower left. If not all four of the square miles are covered by the time I'm done with my corner, I'll take up the slack." As a huge air elemental he covers swaths about 90 yards wide and 880 yards long - that's ten lanes per square - and he looks for signs of interesting flora and fauna as they relate to a hunting ground/playground for ocelots. It takes him about 11 minutes to cover his quadrant, so long as he does not run into anything that slows him up.

Should all additional evidence he and other party members gather agree with what the spell already told him, he does the two-hour visit to the ocelots in Humble's Ford (as outlined May 22nd), either returning with them if they want to go right away or without them if they don't mind waiting a few days. If they come, he'll work with his friends to introduce them to the place.

Before going to sleep, he maps out the area. Then he goes to bed. "I'll take last watch." (I know people are anxious to get moving, as am I - which is why I've tried to concentrate the concatenation of actions which will help us perform due diligence, but not eat up too many posting days.)
=============
Taking 10 on:
Perception: 48
Survival: 31
Knowledge (nature): 29

Succotash (Jeremy) AC 31/16/29 CMD 21 HP 106/106 Valerie AC 37/15/32 CMD 28 HP 100/100 Spells
Monday May 25th, 2020 2:19:54 AM
Succotash says, "Wait a moment and I'll cast Augury to see if there is anything that may harm the ocelots in the area. He then cast the spell, and says, "Gods of the Wold, Is there any immediate danger to the ocelots we wish to relocate i this area?"

Tali (JonPaul) AC:25 (T:21, FF:20), CMD:35, Saves:(F:14/R:16/W:17), HP:101/101 TMP HP +13
Monday May 25th, 2020 1:51:09 PM
Silent Forest

Tali, 15 feet above the forest floor senses nothing as the rest of the Humbles laugh about...

Spell in Effect
Mage Armor - 900 of 900 Minutes
Overland Flight - 900 of 900 Minutes

Hero's Feast:
You bring forth a great feast, including a magnificent table, chairs, service, and food and drink. The feast takes 1 hour to consume, and the beneficial effects do not set in until this hour is over. Every creature partaking of the feast is cured of all sickness and nausea, receives the benefits of both neutralize poison and remove disease and gains 1d8 temporary hit points + 1 point per two caster levels (maximum +10) after imbibing the nectar-like beverage that is part of the feast. The ambrosial food grants each creature that partakes a +1 morale bonus on attack rolls and Will saves and a +4 morale bonus on saving throws against poison and fear effects for 12 hours.

Temp HP

1d8+6 = 13

DM Kathy
Monday May 25th, 2020 2:13:00 PM
Murphy is keen to return to Humble's and fetch the ocelots right away! Pressi, however, advises caution, and Bliss points out that there could be other cats here filling that ecological niche.

You do some reconnoissance. The local ecosystem seems healthy. Tali sees no signs of anything unnatural that might threaten the ocelots--or anything else in the area. You see some signs of larger cats at the very edge of your search area, but there is room for the ocelots. There may be a few territorial scuffles at first, but that's the kind of thing Lio and Nia signed up for.

Succotash uses an Augury to learn whether there is any immediate danger to the ocelots, and receives a reassuring Weal for an answer.

Hobie is anxious to continue with the mission, and there doesn't seem to be any reason Murphy can't plant his oak tree and fetch the cats.

Kezzem (BrianW) - AC 32; HP 174/174; Rumpus AC 29 HP 74/74
Monday May 25th, 2020 2:28:14 PM
"Hold on a second, Muprh, let me check something first. I've got a bad feeling about this."

Kezzem decides to sweep the area with a detect evil, just in case.

If nothing pings, he givea the druid the go ahead.

Pressi (Melvin) - AC 25 (30), HP 111(125), CMD 24; Harper AC 30 (31), HP 85 (99), CMD 29 (34)
Monday May 25th, 2020 3:47:11 PM
Pressi gets a wicked smile across her face as Hobie whines about wanting to move on.

"Before we do that, I think we all need a moment of reflection and goodbyes as we release these animals that we so tenderly cared for into the world beyond. Hobie gets the first speech. Cool?"

Pressi otherwise gives the go ahead.

CatBliss HP154/154+7 AC33 | Mookie HP76/76+14 AC40 | Cayzle d20-4=15 ;
Monday May 25th, 2020 7:13:14 PM

Bliss listen's intently to Hobie's speech and applauds loudly, whatever he says.

Bliss is happy to have found the ocelots a home. If they wanted safety, they could have stayed in Humbles Ford. "Sometimes the choices we make in life may be the right ones, even if they are not the safe ones."

Mookie caws. "Kid, first the math, now the philosophy you're pouring into my brain!? Please, stop, it hurts!"

Sense Motive vs Mookie's Bluff check of 15: Highlight to display spoiler: {It does not hurt.}

"Go for it, please, Mister Murphy," Bliss says.

Murphy Leafwin Pipewood (KimMc) Halfling Druid - AC 33/T-23/Fl-29 CMD 37 HP 132+7temp
Monday May 25th, 2020 11:42:02 PM

Murphy likes Succotash's report of weal; and Tali's view; waits for Kezzem's report; receives the go-ahead from Pressi and Bliss. He waves to Hobie. "Be back soon."

Murphy gets back to Humble's Ford. As no one indicated they wanted to accompany him, he went by himself, taking his pony Sugar along. From the oak tree midway between town and the Sanctuary, he rides to the Sanctuary. He lets those he sees know how things are going. He gives Hazel the latest manuscript he has been working on since they left town. "Get this to my brother, Demko, at my folks' place to make two copies - one for the WLA, and one he'll keep. He'll get the original back to you - you know where I keep those, Hazel. Just put it there."

He talks with his sister Leska, who has been helping out with the animals from time to time, and gets a report on how things are going. He speaks with the ocelot family, and explains the situation. He tells him he will be leaving in an hour. If they want to come, then be ready.

Sugar the pony he leaves behind in the stables. He takes ten minutes to spend in devotion at the shrine on the grounds to Eberyon, and spends a few minutes at Maab's shrine, too. He places a note in Pressi's room with 'For Pressi's Family from Murphy' written on the outside. 'Maybe someone will pick it up, he thinks to himself.

He take five minutes to talk with our mushroom dwarf to see how things fare. He heads to town to check out the tunnels, and pops up at home. "Hi Mom!" He gives her a five-minutes rundown on what they are up to, asks for a three-minute highlight of what's going on, grabs a plate of hot muffins, covering it over with linen, and takes the jar of honey. "Thanks, ma - we'll eat this at camp!" He returns to the Sanctuary. "Ready, kits? Let's go." He leads them back to another oak on the Hovel side just outside the compound, explains the means of travel. "I know you've watched me do this before," and walks with them into the tree, where they are transported to the Cthonian jungle.

"You can open your eyes now, Lio, Nia. Go say hi to Mowa."

With his friends, he helps the young adult ocelots get used to the area. He lets them know there may be bigger cats at the edge of the area. "You can work it out."

"Hey guys - night time snack - my mother baked some muffins, and here's honey to go with 'em."

Hobie (Nick T) HP 126/126 AC 32 Touch 18 Flat 27 CMD 33 Hero Points 8 Prepared Spells
Tuesday May 26th, 2020 2:46:18 AM
At Pressi's suggestion, Hobie uncomfortably steps forward to give the requested speech. He takes his hat and places it over his chest.
"You poor cats, enslaved by that orc I killed. Sorry you had to suffer so much. I hope you can feel free here, and find happiness, and do cat things. Stay away from the river, find some string to play with. And remember, sometimes snakes turn out to just be cucumbers. Adios"

Succotash (Jeremy) AC 31/16/29 CMD 21 HP 106/106 Valerie AC 37/15/32 CMD 28 HP 100/100 Spells
Tuesday May 26th, 2020 6:27:55 AM
Succotash is glad they found a home for the ocelots. He translates Hobie's words to the cats, and bids them farewell, as they scamper into the trees. He tells them that he and Murphy may check in on them from time to time, if that is something they are OK with. He then takes the time to memorize the terrain, so he can easily teleport back here in the future. After sharing a meal with his friends, followed up by Murphy's mother muffins, he volunteers to take the first watch.

Pressi (Melvin) - AC 25 (30), HP 111(125), CMD 24; Harper AC 30 (31), HP 85 (99), CMD 29 (34)
Tuesday May 26th, 2020 10:43:54 AM
Pressi smirked, but remained rather respectful of Hobie's on the spot speech.

She takes some time to give a speech of her own, about how the balance of nature has gotten a step closer to being restored, and how she's going to miss the cats in her care.

She helps Murphy when he finally transports the cats over.

DM Kathy
Tuesday May 26th, 2020 2:55:13 PM
Kezzem checks, but nothing in the area is evil.

Murphy, using his trusty oak tree, blips back to Humble's Ford and retrieves the ocelots. Among other things.

When he returns, there are speeches. Hobie wishes the cats well. Bliss provides a bit of philosophy. Pressi speaks of nature and says her goodbyes.

You share a meal and set watches. Lio and Nia actually linger in camp for a while before finally succumbing to the lure of the jungle. The last you see of them, they are following one another jumping from branch to branch toward the canopy.

The muffins are delicious, the night passes uneventfully, and in the morning you set out for the plains.

CatBliss HP154/154+7 AC33 | Mookie HP76/76+14 AC40 | Cayzle
Tuesday May 26th, 2020 3:00:06 PM

As Bliss waits for Murphy to ride home, visit Hazel, visit Leska, explain things to the ocelots, lodge his pony in the stables, pray at his shrine, pray at a different shrine, drop off a note, chat up the mushroom dwarf, check out the tunnels, visit his mom, and brings the ocelots to an oak, before returning.

As a long long while passes, Mookie whines, "I'm bored! boooored!"

Bliss takes up the refrain. "Booorreeed! Boring bored boredest! Hecka bored!"

Bliss and bird continue in this vein for a while. Then Bliss tells Mookie, "Hold down the fort here at Camp Boring, I gotta go on an adventure."

The halfling wanders off to do the necessary.

Tali (JonPaul) AC:25 (T:21, FF:20), CMD:35, Saves:(F:14/R:16/W:17), HP:101/101
Tuesday May 26th, 2020 3:07:05 PM
Silent Forest now with Ocelots!

Tali, having meditated | rested for her standard two hours, goes through her morning rituals of spell castings getting ready for the next phase of this journey.

Spell in Effect
Mage Armor - 900 of 900 Minutes
Overland Flight - 900 of 900 Minutes

Murphy Leafwin Pipewood (KimMc) Halfling Druid - AC 33/T-23/Fl-29 CMD 37 HP 132+7temp d20+15=26 ; d20+38=43 ;
Tuesday May 26th, 2020 9:58:35 PM

Murphy, catching up with what went on when he headed to and from Humble's Ford, says to Bliss and Mookie. "Hey, I said I'd be gone two hours. It was that long, almost exactly! You could have come along, instead of staying around camp here and getting bored." He gives them a big smile. "Not my fault! Here in the jungle, you could have practiced swinging on vines, or something. And for Mookie - there must be a wide variety of tasty worms, grubs, and such. You're responsible for your own entertainment, boys."

As Lio and Nia linger in camp in the early evening, Murphy takes a moment to scratch behind Nia's ears and along her left cheek, and under Lio's chin and the base of his skull as his friends give their speeches. Along with Succotash, he helps interpret. He tells them, "This is a sweet place for you cats. May you enjoy life and adventure here, and stalk your prey with great skill. May you find mates, and raise many cubs." He then tells his friends what he said.

That night, he takes Pressi's hand and leads her a little way off, to sit astraddle a fallen tree trunk. "I left a note for your family in your tower. Let's see how resourceful and bold they may be." He kisses her hand. "Soon, as things go, I should like to meet your family. Your aristocratic family. Your stealthy and arcane-touched family." He kisses her on the forehead. "I want to kiss you without surcease." He takes both her hands in his own. "When the time has time." He does not wish to lie alone in his own hammock that night. But nevertheless he does.

In the early morning, as he ostensibly stands first watch, he mixes his watch with making an ink drawing on parchment of Hobie, hat in hand, talking with the ocelots. Lio looks attentively up at him, ears forward, as Nia scratches along her neck with her hind leg. He places it within a scroll case. Just before breakfast, he prays, switches up his spells somewhat (should make on-sheet adjustments by sometime tomorrow), and says, "We'll likely be out to the plains by afternoon - maybe some bumps through badlands on the way." He offers to arcane archer Hobie a scroll case as they enjoy (a heroes'?) breakfast.

During part of the days' travel he walks along the pathways found, or takes turns riding on Skipper the dog, then Nutmeg the pony. During part of the day he flies as a scarlet macaw (reskinned great horned owl) in the lower canopy, the upper canopy, and occasionally above the treetops to get a broader look around. When he gets tired, he flies down to land on Mowa's back, telling her who he is before he lands. And, lioness permitting, he travels. "So, Tali. Make up a story to tell us. Something about being lighter than air. Or another theme, if you choose."
===========
Profession (artist): 26 for his sketch entitled 'Hobie and the Ocelots' - that sounds like a good name for a band.
Perception: 43 - for noticing things along the way

Succotash (Jeremy) AC 31/16/29 CMD 21 HP 106/106 Valerie AC 37/15/32 CMD 28 HP 100/100 Spells
Wednesday May 27th, 2020 5:56:26 AM
Succotash giggles as Bliss and Mookie complain about being bored. "You know Bliss, there is no need to be so bored, we could play some cards, oh wait, I forgot my cards at the Sanctuary, never mind. I know we can share stories of our pasts, you know like before we met kinda stories. I'll go first:

As you know, before I met you guys, It was just me and Miss Piggy, traveling the Wold looking for evil to vanquish, and good deeds to preform. About five years before I met up with you guys, Piggy and I were traveling through an area, I can't even remember where now, and we came upon a small town being attacked by hill giants. Of course Piggy and I wasted no time as we charged into the fray, goring and slashing as we went. Somehow we were able to rally the towns guard, which was lead by a half-orc ranger named Grindor, and we sent the giants running. In the fight, Grindor was grievously wounded by an exceptional large hill giant, who was the leader of the giants. I'm convinced he was only half hill giant, what the other half was, and why anyone other than a hill giant would want to mate with a hill giant is beyond me, but Grindor was able to slay the fiend as it struck him the blow. Luckily I was near by, and was able to use some lay of hands (I was a paladin then if you remember) to save Grindor's life. with the slaying of the cross-bred giant, the rest fled. I stayed with that village for a few months, just in case the giants decided to regroup, and attack it again, in that time period, I got to know Grindor and his, at the time, 10 year old son Grindar, as well as his wife Bertunie, a half-orc beauty, even by non half-orc standards. I ran into Grindar recently, at the Giggling Ghost, he has followed in his father's footsteps, taken up the way of the ranger, and is down in the Sargrass Plains.

After Murphy returns, Succotash will take his watch, and prepare his spells in the morning after spending time communing with his gods.

CatBliss HP154/154+7 AC33 | Mookie HP76/76+14 AC40 | Cayzle
Wednesday May 27th, 2020 9:11:06 AM

[OOC: It very much amuses me that while DM Kathy has kindly advanced us to the next morning, we're not done roleplaying out a couple hours of boredom! LOL!]

Bliss immediately perks up when Brother Succotash tells his story, and ... by this time, likely after Murphy has returned ... tells his own story about how his adopted mom killed an evil harpy and then wrestled with her ghost and made a bargain with her to raise her hatchlings. "And one of those hatchlings was me!" Bliss says, very much not a harpy.

===== ===== =====

In the morning, Bliss performs his morning magic prep and his rituals (sharing and grimalkin) and his castings (threefold aspect, barkskins, sacrifice blood, extended shield of faith). And helps Pressi with hers, especially warding, which Mookie shares.

Then he says to Mowa, "Mama cat, it is time to go home!" He says this as both a halfling and as a cat, not sure she understands him in either form. He looks forward to the push to the plains. He has Mookie go aloft from time to time to let us all know how we're doing.

Pressi (Melvin) - AC 25 (30), HP 111(125), CMD 24; Harper AC 30 (31), HP 85 (99), CMD 29 (34)
Wednesday May 27th, 2020 11:04:07 AM
Pressi to Bliss: "Do not MAKE me turn this adventure around. If you and Mookie are so bored, just fight with each other like normal children."

She asks Kezzem if he wants to tell the story of how they met, or if he wants her to.

Pressi is silent about the letter at first. "Well... I guess it's done, one way or another. Just promise me that you'll stay with me... whatever happens next. But it's fine, I'm sure its fine."

All that, however, gets pushed aside. She gets ready for the morning and prepares to move on.

Kezzem (BrianW) - AC 32; HP 174/174; Rumpus AC 29 HP 74/74
Wednesday May 27th, 2020 1:10:26 PM
"You better tell it, Press," said Kezzem. "I lied so many times back then I can't remember what the truth actually was."

DM Kathy
Wednesday May 27th, 2020 1:20:50 PM
The evening before, you told tales, and perhaps squabbled a little, as you spend a lot of time in each other's company and that can grow wearing.

But that was then, and this is now. It is morning in the jungle, and you set off to find the plains. The closer you get, the more eager Mowa becomes, bounding ahead of you and waiting impatiently for you to catch up. By the time you stop for your noon meal, the jungle has become thin and scrubby, and you can see the plains beyond. Mowa is nearly beside herself.

Within an hour, you have left the jungle altogether and are standing under the open sky. Mowa sniffs the wind and paces, eager to be gone.

Kezzem (BrianW) - AC 32; HP 174/174; Rumpus AC 29 HP 74/74
Wednesday May 27th, 2020 1:57:13 PM
"Goodbye to the jungle," says Kezzem. "It did NOT have fun and games. That's false advertising."

Murphy Leafwin Pipewood (KimMc) Halfling Druid - AC 33/T-23/Fl-29 CMD 37 HP 132+7temp
Wednesday May 27th, 2020 2:38:30 PM

"I will stay with you," he tells Pressi.

Murphy laughs at Kezzem's evaluation of the jungle. He tells the group he is going to change into lion form, to allow for easy conversation with Mowa, and see if she wants him to commune with nature. Unless any object, he does so.

"Mowa, we promised to get you to a place you can live among others of your kind. If you will allow me, I can commune with nature, and tell if there are any lions within 15 miles of us - and if so, which direction. It takes only a short time."

I had meant to mention this earlier - but Murphy at some point in his earlier interactions with Mowa made certain to collect a few hairs from her body - whether directly, or more likely, from places she has lain, so as to make it easier to find her should they desire to do so in the future. Also, he takes in and consciously memorizes her scent. Then, he sits for a moment on his haunches to begin the spell, and then stands to walk slowly ahead into the plains as he continues to commune with nature.

First he 'hunts' for lions, besides Mowa, within the radius of the spell. Next, he hunts for creatures that might prove a threat to lions. Finally, he tries to learn if there are any giraffes out there. As he communes with the plains, he tells the land that a lioness is being returned, and he hopes she finds a good home here.

He has memorized the spell twice, so if he needs to use it again farther in, he can.

Succotash (Jeremy) AC 31/16/29 CMD 21 HP 106/106 Valerie AC 37/15/32 CMD 28 HP 100/100 Spells d20+22=32 ;
Thursday May 28th, 2020 5:31:33 AM
Succotash kicks himself for not preparing beast shape, this morning, so he could join in the fun, running around as a lion, like Murphy. He instead rides Valerie following just behind Mowa and Murph. He tells everyone, "Keep your eyes open, things could get interesting if we run into a pride of lions before we are ready! (perception 32)

CatBliss HP154/154+7 AC33 | Mookie HP76/76+14 AC40 | Cayzle
Thursday May 28th, 2020 12:13:56 PM

In cat form and as a halfling, Bliss says good-bye to Mowa.

Mookie, who was always a bit leery of those teeth, just circles around.

Pressi (Melvin) - AC 25 (30), HP 111(125), CMD 24; Harper AC 30 (31), HP 85 (99), CMD 29 (34)
Thursday May 28th, 2020 1:53:18 PM
Pressi says goodbye and moves on.

Hobie (Nick T) HP 126/126 AC 32 Touch 18 Flat 27 CMD 33 Hero Points 8 Prepared Spells
Thursday May 28th, 2020 2:38:10 PM
Hobie the archer feels much more comfortable being able to see a little farther in the open air as opposed to the confines of a jungle.

Tali (JonPaul) AC:25 (T:21, FF:20), CMD:35, Saves:(F:14/R:16/W:17), HP:101/101
Thursday May 28th, 2020 4:09:26 PM
The Plains of Mowa

Tali stays silent as she plays the floating caboose to the Humble gang.

Spell in Effect
Mage Armor - 900 of 900 Minutes
Overland Flight - 900 of 900 Minutes

DM Kathy
Thursday May 28th, 2020 4:33:45 PM
As you exit the jungle, Kezzem expresses disappointment that it did not have fun and games. On the other hand, the temple you will be exploring is back in the jungle, so maybe that's where the fun and games will be.

Murphy uses magic to find lions nearby, and finds there is a pride quite close. From the way Mowa is sniffing the air, she knows it, too. You look for anything that will threaten lions. You do find other predators, of course, but none that would be a threat to a healthy adult lion. In lion form, accompanied by Succotash and Valerie, you set off to find the pride. It doesn't take long. Mowa gives you an affectionate nudge before moving to join them. You watch from a distance. There is, of course, some defensive body language when the strange lion approaches, but after a lot of sniffing and a couple of scuffles, the pride seems to accept her.

You were able to obtain some hairs, so you can contact her again if you have need.

Pressi and Bliss have already said their goodbyes. Hobie is just enjoying being out in the open. Of course, that isn't going to last; you're heading back into the jungle to find the temple. It's nice for now, though.

Tali keeps a rear guard but sees nothing untoward.

Your menagerie adventure is officially over. Grnta the bear will remain in Humble's Ford, being gently tended for the rest of her days. Mowa has found a pride. Lio and Nia have found a home. The other ocelots, along with the monkeys, peacocks, tropical birds, and stirges, will travel again in the spring, this time under the more benign management of the dark elf brothers. And, of course, sentient creatures will no longer be exhibited alongside animals.

Your obligations met, you are now ready to see what this temple is all about!

Kezzem (BrianW) - AC 32; HP 174/174; Rumpus AC 29 HP 74/74
Thursday May 28th, 2020 9:28:50 PM
"Hey, did you guys hear about the lion who lost his mane gambling? He should have know better--he was playing against a bunch of cheetahs."

Murphy Leafwin Pipewood (KimMc) Halfling Druid - AC 33/T-23/Fl-29 CMD 37 HP 132+7temp
Friday May 29th, 2020 3:34:04 AM

After they observe the acceptance by the pride of lions, Murphy casts upon himself animal growth, and grows from large to huge. He lets out two roars to shake the bones. "FARE WELL, MOWA. HUNT WELL, LIONS" he says in lion speak.

He turns with his friends, and heads back the way they came. About 15 minutes later, he reduces to normal lion size, and decides that is a good time to turn back into his own halfling self.

Traveling snippets of conversation:

- "Back to the confines of the jungle, mighty archer."

- "Does your family know this Shake Spear fellow, Pressi? I'm looking forward to meeting them. Don't worry too much about me getting along with some of them, or vice versa. You should meet some of my cousins in Windhorn Hamlet. Wait - Shake Spear wrote about that place, right? Anyway, if they hear soon enough, no doubt a few will make it out to the wedding. Picture being related to the Bad Apples."

- "Tali - make up a story about what's going to happen in the temple. Ask Kezzem and Mookie for help if you get stuck."

- "Succotash - it's always good to have you and Valerie by my side."

- "Next time we go to Pirnook's General Store, let's all use the list of phrases posted at the entrance to his place as forbidden. And then buy stuff so as to help his face turn from bright red to normal color."

- "I'd been hoping to see a giraffe on the plains. What's your favorite animal, Bliss, besides a big black bird?"

Succotash (Jeremy) AC 31/16/29 CMD 21 HP 106/106 Valerie AC 37/15/32 CMD 28 HP 100/100 Spells
Friday May 29th, 2020 5:32:13 AM
"Well, we can return the old fashion two day way, or Tali and I can have us back at Auntie's Village in a few seconds, I'm OK either way, but I have to be honest, I'm itching to check out this temple. Maybe someday they will write a play about it, they can call it "Humble's Sword and the Temple of Doom" or some such thing!"

CatBliss HP154/154+7 AC33 | Mookie HP76/76+14 AC40 | Cayzle
Friday May 29th, 2020 12:04:40 PM

Bliss giggles ... "cheetahs." But really not the paladin's best effort.

"Oh, oh, yes Brother Succotash, please do let's teleport back. Much the better choice!"

DM Kathy
Friday May 29th, 2020 3:12:44 PM
As you leave the plains, Kezzem tells a joke, but he knows perfectly well that cheetahs never prosper.

Murphy chats with his companions, and Succotash offers to teleport everyone back to Auntie's village. Which is certainly a possibility, but you aren't really heading for the village; you're trying to find a temple.

The temple was described as north of the village. You traveled northeast to get to the plains. It's hard to be sure, but at this point, you're probably closer to the temple than you are to the village. On the other hand, if you went back to the village, you might have clearer direction when you set out for the temple. On the other other hand, your group probably has the skill and magic to get where you're going.

Do you want to return to the village?

Kezzem (BrianW) - AC 32; HP 174/174; Rumpus AC 29 HP 74/74
Friday May 29th, 2020 3:24:22 PM
"Wait, if we're going to the Temple of Doom, which one of us is Short Round?" asks Kezzem. "And why do we have to always go to places called something like the 'Temple of Doom?' Just once I would like to go to the Temple of Puppies and Pancakes!"

Succotash (Jeremy) AC 31/16/29 CMD 21 HP 106/106 Valerie AC 37/15/32 CMD 28 HP 100/100 Spells
Friday May 29th, 2020 3:44:23 PM
�I just remembered, I have �Find the Path� prepared today, I could cast it and let the spell lead us right to the temple, if you guys want to just head there�.

Tali (JonPaul) AC:25 (T:21, FF:20), CMD:35, Saves:(F:14/R:16/W:17), HP:101/101
Friday May 29th, 2020 5:37:25 PM
The Temple Ruins

Tali shrugs and says, "I could fly there and do some recon for you if y'all would like?"

Spell in Effect
Mage Armor - 900 of 900 Minutes
Overland Flight - 900 of 900 Minutes

CatBliss HP154/154+7 AC33 | Mookie HP76/76+14 AC40 | Cayzle
Saturday May 30th, 2020 10:19:14 AM

"I'm short, but not that round," Bliss says to Kezzem, not getting it. But then he winks. "I think the Puppy Temple does not need as many heroes to come by as the Doom Temple!"

Bliss is pretty firmly set on the teleport idea. "We can blip back to the village, then walk to the temple from there!"

He says to party's most talented sorcerer, "Miss Tali, in our very long time adventuring as a group, have we not learned from our dear Mister Murphy? No, you should not go off on your own for a look around! We don't want to visit that old grinchy gargle guy again!"

Bliss is enthusiastic about Succotash's spell. But not yet. "We have a pretty good idea of where the Temple is, good Brother," he says, "so maybe save it for when we are looking for something and we don't know where it is?"

Murphy Leafwin Pipewood (KimMc) Halfling Druid - AC 33/T-23/Fl-29 CMD 37 HP 132+7temp
Saturday May 30th, 2020 12:08:14 PM

[Thanks for the fun with cheetahs, Brian & Kathy!]

"'Short Round'?" Murphy comments, "We had a short round in the group - he helped us in our first contest, and for a while after. Odo is his name. Odo Tosscobble Barfoot. Round as a ball, yet fairly strong and extremely nimble was he. A fine swimmer. I miss Odo sometimes. He always had good food to share. And his friend, the startling bard, Flimsipold, or 'Hin Billy'. Talented and charmingly outrageous. He wrote a song that included me once, called 'Puttin' up the Tent'." [See the 2nd to the last post in this section of the Humble's Ford archives - the one on 10/23/2013 by Flimsipold 'Hin Billy' Williewhim]

Murphy agrees with Succotash, and Tali in part, and Bliss in small part. "We have the keys. There is no need to ADD to the distance we travel, Bliss." He points in the general direction, roughly north/northwest from where they are in the plains, in which the temple should lie, based upon Auntie's description. "It is that way. And rather than having to travel another day and a half, it should take us less than that. I say we head that way. When we get a little bit into the jungle, let Succotash cast his spell, and that will set us on a more accurate course. Tali and I can fly up above, get our bearings. Then, after his find the path spell wears out in a few hours, we'll still know the right direction to take. Let's not extend the time it takes for us to get there, friends. If need be, I have another commune with nature spell. A large structure in the midst of the jungle will appear like an empty spot in my commune, so we can know where it is by that."

He further considers Bliss's counsel. "Perhaps you are right, Bliss, on the notion of having Succotash reserve the spell for when we need to find something else. Let's decide as we get further on. What do the rest of you think? Village, or straight to the temple? Earlier, Hobie, you mentioned getting right to the temple after we met our obligations to the cats. That's a paraphrase."

Kezzem (BrianW) - AC 32; HP 174/174; Rumpus AC 29 HP 74/74
Saturday May 30th, 2020 1:16:01 PM
"Tali, keep an eye out for the Puppy Temple," says Kezzem. "Maybe we can stop there on the way back."

CatBliss HP154/154+7 AC33 | Mookie HP76/76+14 AC40 | Cayzle
Saturday May 30th, 2020 5:40:31 PM
"Once we own that Temple, we totally have to use it for a puppy farm!

Murphy Leafwin Pipewood (KimMc) Halfling Druid, and Skipper - AC 33/T-23/Fl-29 CMD 37 HP 132+7temp
Saturday May 30th, 2020 10:58:38 PM

"So, Skipper. How'd you like to help get a puppy farm started in the middle of a jungle?" Murphy asks his dog in Halfling with a chipper voice. Skipper knows his name was mentioned, so looks over at Murphy, and comes and licks his face. He has no idea what his boy said, but he responded to the happy voice.

Pressi (Kim for Melvin) - AC 25 (30), HP 111(125), CMD 24; Harper AC 30 (31), HP 85 (99), CMD 29 (34)
Sunday May 31st, 2020 3:08:23 AM

"All right, here's another idea," Pressi puts in. "It's easy to walk in the plains, and Hobie likes it better here. Let's walk in the plains in sight of the jungle, follow it north a while, then travel west when we figure that's where the temple lies. Whether Succo uses his find the boulevard, or Murphy his commune with crabgrass, or we just take our best guess. Birds or people checking things out from time to time from above as we tramp through the vines... whatever." She pauses, "So, what do we do now? Rock, paper, machetes?"

Kezzem (BrianW) - AC 32; HP 174/174; Rumpus AC 29 HP 74/74
Sunday May 31st, 2020 2:02:54 PM
"Wait, when did Murphey get a dog?" asks a puzzled Kezzem. "Has he always had a dog? Maybe I need to get my Perception bonus checked. And does that mean Hobie is the only one without an animal companion?"

Murphy Leafwin Pipewood (KimMc) Halfling Druid, and Skipper - AC 33/T-23/Fl-29 CMD 37 HP 132+7temp
Monday June 1st, 2020 1:35:03 AM

"Well, about the time you first met Skipper, Kezzem, you were drinking both ale and wine," Murphy responds. "Remember when we met that interesting fellow, Peremin Kalliwick, on the edge of Hovel, just before we headed south into the Red Hills to see if we could rescue the wizards? That's when you first met Skipper. He's come with us a few other times, but not all the time. He's been with me again since we recently left our town."

"So, what is it, friends? Teleport back to see Auntie, and walk a long ways? Head straight toward where we think the temple is? Or go with Pressi's plan? I vote for what she said. I'm going to slo-o-o-wly start walking that way. I'll look over my shoulder, though, and if others want to go a different direction, well, I'll change my course." And he sets out, walking at half speed northward. Because, he knows which way is north. And he glances over his shoulder to see what others do.

Succotash (Jeremy) AC 31/16/29 CMD 21 HP 106/106 Valerie AC 37/15/32 CMD 28 HP 100/100 Spells
Monday June 1st, 2020 5:38:02 AM
Succotash scratches his head in confusion, "Ok guys what spell do I cast? with Tali's help, I can have everyone back at Aunties instantaneously, or I can cast "Find the Path",and we can head directly to the temple, or I can cast either "Airwalk" or "Fly" on Valerie, and then Tali, Murphy, Valerie and myself can do some Ariel recon. I just had another thought, I can cast "Find the Path", then Pressi can cast "Shadow Walk", and we can get their real quick. What ever we decide, we need to do so soon, or I think our druid is going to pull a Murphy again and head out on his own".

Tali (JonPaul) AC:25 (T:21, FF:20), CMD:35, Saves:(F:14/R:16/W:17), HP:101/101
Monday June 1st, 2020 8:20:00 AM
The Temple Ruins

Tali shrugs and says, "Why do we always have this discussion? Shadow walk creates issues, walking through this Bandersnacthced Jungle is too much! Let's just go where we know, and then temple walk from there?! Capeesh?!"

Spell in Effect
Mage Armor - 900 of 900 Minutes
Overland Flight - 900 of 900 Minutes

CatBliss HP154/154+7 AC33 | Mookie HP76/76+14 AC40 | Cayzle
Monday June 1st, 2020 10:38:41 AM

"What Miss Tali says! Got no desire to walk the shadows. Teleport to Koboldtown, then walk to the Temple, please."

Murphy Leafwin Pipewood (KimMc) Halfling Druid, and Skipper - AC 33/T-23/Fl-29 CMD 37 HP 132+7temp
Monday June 1st, 2020 2:30:59 PM

Murphy shakes his head. "We go back to 'Koboldtown,' and our way through the jungle is much farther. Walking through the jungle is too much? It will be much more if we return to the village." Murphy throws up his hands. "But you want to make it harder, Bliss?" He throws up his hands. "Fine. Get us back there, Succotash, to Auntie's place. Yes, please, make it harder to travel and longer the path."

DM Kathy
Monday June 1st, 2020 2:40:11 PM
Kezzem wonders aloud about this Temple of Doom. To be fair, nobody has said anything about Doom so far. Perhaps it goes without saying.

The rest of the group is still talking logistics. Bliss wants to go back to the kobold village. Tali offers to do some aerial reconnoissance. Succotash offers a Find the Path spell. Pressi suggests staying on the plains and traveling northward. Murphy concurs, but Bliss is still very keen on going back to the village.

It would appear the group has not yet reached a consensus, so your DM will pause things here.

Hobie (Nick T) HP 126/126 AC 32 Touch 18 Flat 27 CMD 33 Hero Points 8 Prepared Spells
Monday June 1st, 2020 3:53:24 PM
�I�m all for trudging further along without going back. I like using Suckers Find the Boulevard�

CatBliss HP154/154+7 AC33 | Mookie HP76/76+14 AC40 | Cayzle
Monday June 1st, 2020 9:03:30 PM

Bliss bounces up and down. "Blip! Blip! Blip! Blip! Blip! Blip! Blip! Blip! Blip! Blip!" he chants.

Mookie puts his head under a wing.

Kezzem (BrianW) - AC 32; HP 174/174; Rumpus AC 29 HP 74/74
Tuesday June 2nd, 2020 1:15:05 AM
"Uh-oh, somebody cursed Bliss so he can only say 'blip,'" says Kezzem. "Or maybe I should say the curse us, eh Mooks?"

Murphy Leafwin Pipewood (KimMc) Halfling Druid, and Skipper - AC 33/T-23/Fl-29 CMD 37 HP 132+7temp
Tuesday June 2nd, 2020 2:17:52 AM

Murphy walks the few steps it takes to get back to the party. He pulls out a copy of the map he made of Bliss's map, and marks out a few things. "Look at this here," he suggests. "This is about where the kobolds' village is. We had to travel most of the way through Cthonia to reach it. And where the ocelots have their new home. And where Mowa found her pride," as he moves his finger in an east-northeast direction along the map. "Now, we don't know exactly where the temple is, but it's likely about here." And he points to a spot north of the kobolds' village. And not terribly far from the edge of the jungle. "If we move parallel to the jungle until we get to where it's west of us, then we have less jungle to wade through. So, that is Pressi's suggestion.

"However, Bliss is rather strenuously insisting that we return to talk with Auntie. Sometimes taking the shortest route is not the most advantageous option. Heaven's ways may differ from halflings' natural ways on occasion. Having listened to the various things Bliss has had to say recently, he had it in mind from the beginning to return to the village after the animals were placed. Using logic and reason, I differ with him. But using friendship and respect for... oddness? I'm willing to acquiesce.

"So, I wish to opine that, though Bliss's plan does not appear optimum, I'll grant a nod to this vigorous exercise of his will. Maybe his way will bring us more trouble, and Pressi's suggestion more ease. Let's see what Bliss's way brings us. If it's really bad, then we can razz him for years to come, just as he has razzed me for years based upon what I did long ago. And if it brings really good results, why, I'll have my Grandma Eglantine bake him a rumberry pie."

Pressi (Kim for Melvin) - AC 25 (30), HP 111(125), CMD 24; Harper AC 30 (31), HP 85 (99), CMD 29 (34)
Tuesday June 2nd, 2020 2:34:01 AM

"Boys, boys." Pressi sighs. "I think that Hobie is correct. One advantage of what Bliss wants to do, though, is that we can run into more monsters on the way. But, we'll also be able to - no, Murphy will be able - to make a map showing the route between Sskurhe, I mean, Koboldville, and the Temple of Not Too Soon."

She looks at Bliss. "If you can explain with A Really Good Reason why yours is the best way, why it is so important to you, then I might listen. Otherwise, there are no cookies for you at bedtime. Go!"

Succotash (Jeremy) AC 31/16/29 CMD 21 HP 106/106 Valerie AC 37/15/32 CMD 28 HP 100/100 Spells
Tuesday June 2nd, 2020 6:26:51 AM
As his friends squabble over/discuss the best next step, Succotash just shakes his head, finally he speaks up:

"Guys, I wasn't trying to cause division here, I was just offering options, and we have a few available to us. Which one is the best? Who knows! but I for one am in favor of taking the shortest and fastest route, which would be the "Find the Path/Shadow Walk" combo. I know better than anyone how badly our one and only time using shadow walk went, as I was the one who was almost taken out, but do we run away from everything that goes poorly? of course not, we are heroes, and we do what needs doing! That said, I'm willing to go back to Humble's Ford and start from there if that is what everyone wants, I will happily go with the flow, but we need to make a decision".

CatBliss HP154/154+7 AC33 | Mookie HP76/76+14 AC40 | Cayzle
Tuesday June 2nd, 2020 9:40:08 AM
Bliss grins at the jokes.

"I just think that if we go to the Temple from Koboldtown, the kobolds will see us head there, then see us return, and they will know that we did the quest. It's an optics thing."

"But of course, majority rules! I'm fine with whatever most of us want."

Mookie caws, "Blip Blip Blip!"

Pressi (Kim for Melvin) - AC 25 (30), HP 111(125), CMD 24; Harper AC 30 (31), HP 85 (99), CMD 29 (34)
Tuesday June 2nd, 2020 1:13:44 PM

"Optics can be useful," Murphy laughs. "In this case, going for that might delay our arrival at the temple. My vote: Walk north a bit - cross that river on the map. Once we're a few miles north of it, have Succotash cast his Find the Path, and let that help tell us where to go. I'm fine with majority rules in this matter, too. Blip!"

DM Kathy
Tuesday June 2nd, 2020 2:12:13 PM
You continue your discussion. Bliss, as it turns out, is mainly concerned with optics--he wants the kobolds to see you leave and then come back. But the kobolds have already seen you leave. The main thing now is to come back with the kobold talisman.

The rest of the group seems inclined to simply head north from here, so your DM will assume that's the course you take. You move northward, keeping the jungle on your left. You actually began north of the river on the map, but as the day begins to wane you arrive at what is probably a tributary of that river. It marks a pretty good place to camp, so you stop for the night.

Tali (JonPaul) AC:25 (T:21, FF:20), CMD:35, Saves:(F:14/R:16/W:17), HP:101/101
Tuesday June 2nd, 2020 2:17:39 PM
The Temple Ruins

Tali shrugs and says, "Ok, if we can minimize the amount of time spent in the jungle, is what I am advocating for..last time we trapst through the jungle a Bandersnatch tried to eat us!"

Tali will take her standard 2am watch. She will meditate for 2 hours before hand. Once ready for the watch, will cast Overland Flight & Mage Armor. Will Don her goggles, and then hover above the ground 15 feet, while trying to take into consideration all angles of approach to this camp.

Spell in Effect
Mage Armor - 900 of 900 Minutes
Overland Flight - 900 of 900 Minutes

Kezzem (BrianW) - AC 32; HP 174/174; Rumpus AC 29 HP 74/74
Tuesday June 2nd, 2020 2:41:45 PM
"Can someone cast a restoration spell on me?" says Kezzem. "I think I have some Wisdom damage because Bliss just said something that makes sense."

"Yeah Tali, that banderskitty was not fun. I almost died again! Though last time, I did come back with some nifty new powers. I wonder what I would come back as next time?"

Pressi (Kim for Melvin) - AC 25 (30), HP 111(125), CMD 24; Harper AC 30 (31), HP 85 (99), CMD 29 (34)
Tuesday June 2nd, 2020 6:09:33 PM

"Kezzem, when you changed last time, it was as though you had gone from being a caterpillar to a butterfly. Don't press your luck on the next transformation." Pressi thinks about tomorrow. Shadow walk? Mmmaybe.

"Succotash, why don't you do the locate the trail spell before we fall asleep? And tell us which direction it points us in, so we'll know where to head in the morning."

Succotash (Jeremy) AC 31/16/29 CMD 21 HP 106/106 Valerie AC 37/15/32 CMD 28 HP 100/100 Spells
Wednesday June 3rd, 2020 6:20:43 AM
"I can do that Press, but just so you know, the spell will only last for a little more than 2 hours, (10 mins per level = 150 min) Also I can cast it on anyone individual, not just myself, so if we decide to say Shadow Walk in the morning, I could cast it on you Press, so you know which way to lead us through the shadow realm".

Succotash then casts Find the Path to give his friends a rough idea of what direction they will be heading in the morning. He helps set up camp, and takes his normal watch. In the morning he gets up early, as that has become his new normal, and goes off to pray and prepare his spells. he then helps prepare breakfast and after eating, pack up camp.

Murphy Leafwin Pipewood (KimMc) Halfling Druid - AC 33/T-23/Fl-29 CMD 37 HP 132+7temp d20+20=21 ;
Wednesday June 3rd, 2020 12:07:11 PM

"That spell works somewhat 'as the crow flies' - right, Succotash?" asks Murphy. "So that, if you cast it in one spot, then move a mile perpendicular to the path, you could do some triangulation, helping us estimate not only direction, but also distance? Or does it tell you distance, too?" he inquires as he casts it. "If it doesn't directly tell you distance, how about I fly you a mile north of here, and you see where it points you from there. I can do mathematics with the results, I think."

If Succotash agrees, then Murphy does the calculations. Knowledge, engineering: 21 to calculate distance from campground to temple.

Hobie (Nick T) HP 126/126 AC 32 Touch 18 Flat 27 CMD 33 Hero Points 8 Prepared Spells
Wednesday June 3rd, 2020 12:46:27 PM
"between all our spellcasters, is there any chance we can move faster for at least part of the distance by turning into birds or some such?"

Succotash (Jeremy) AC 31/16/29 CMD 21 HP 106/106 Valerie AC 37/15/32 CMD 28 HP 100/100 Spells
Wednesday June 3rd, 2020 1:10:01 PM
The spells gives the most direct route, and an approximate time frame Murph, and if I prepare animal shapes, I can turn us all into giant eagles in the morning Hobie�.

DM Kathy
Wednesday June 3rd, 2020 2:43:11 PM
In the evening, before you retire for the night, Succotash casts his Find the Path spell. You sense that you'll need to cross this creek, then continue west-northwest into the jungle.

You set your watches, but nothing disturbs your camp during the night.

In the morning, you discuss possibilities for moving faster, since nobody is anxious to encounter another bandersnatch. No specific plan has been agreed upon, and the day beckons....

Murphy Leafwin Pipewood (KimMc) Halfling Druid - AC 33/T-23/Fl-29 CMD 37 HP 132+7temp
Wednesday June 3rd, 2020 7:31:35 PM

In the evening Murphy caught up on his journal, and prayed in the morning after last watch, and swapped around a few spells learned. Since the group left Humble's Ford, Murphy has been working a little each day on carving and shaping a darkwood halfling staff sling. Maybe another week or so and he'll have it ready.

"All of us flying sounds good to me, but it might be a challenge for a pony and a dog to figure that one out," Murphy says. "I'll talk to them, try to explain it to them, and see if they are good to try it.

"How many people and animals can be included in a shadow walk?" he asks Pressi.

"Also, we can walk. I am up for walking (with some flying for recon), or flying as birds and such, or shadow walking, in that order. No doubt with our growing mix of spells and powers, there are more ways to get there. I'll go with whichever rational decision the group takes. Let's decide and get going - after a heroic breakfast, right?" he asks, slapping his ribs.

CatBliss HP154/154+7 AC33 | Mookie HP76/76+14 AC40 | Cayzle
Wednesday June 3rd, 2020 10:43:23 PM

"Are we still talking about this?" Bliss looks around, and sees, per recent DM Posts, that the party has actually walked a bunch, camped, and now ... what?

"Well, we decided to walk, let's walk some more!" Bliss declares. "Brother Succotash, please cast your spell again, and we'll Keep On Truckin'!"

"Besides, aren't there supposed to be dinosaurs all over this jungle? I want to see a dinosaur besides Valerie!"

Kezzem (BrianW) - AC 32; HP 174/174; Rumpus AC 29 HP 74/74
Thursday June 4th, 2020 3:44:28 AM
"If we're shadowwalking again I better prepare a bunch of restoration spells. Last time we tried that it didn't turn out so great."

Pressi (Kim for Melvin) - AC 25 (30), HP 111(125), CMD 24; Harper AC 30 (31), HP 85 (99), CMD 29 (34)
Thursday June 4th, 2020 4:11:01 AM

"We're not shadow walking. We're having a heroes' feast. Then we're walking on full stomachs," announces Pressi. "If some of you want to fly to keep an eye on what's coming, good. But no solo acts today." After a hearty breakfast, and joining in the morning rituals with Bliss, she sets out on the path with Harper that Succotash's spell indicated the day before. "When we get closer, dear cleric, if you want to cast it again, then go ahead. Let's get a few miles in us first."

Succotash (Jeremy) AC 31/16/29 CMD 21 HP 106/106 Valerie AC 37/15/32 CMD 28 HP 100/100 Spells d8+6=13 ; d8+6=9 ;
Thursday June 4th, 2020 6:01:34 AM
OOC...Kind DM, the Find the Path spell give a rough estimate as to ones time of arrival. unless there is some reason you are unable to share that information, would you be so kind as to give us a ETA. Thanks!

"I don't know Murph, from what I understand, and based on my own experience, polymorph spells like Animal Shapes, and so on impart the knowledge of the new bodies abilities to the individual, so turning the animals into birds shouldn't be a problem if we were to go that route. Heck remember the battle of Sargrass Plains? Pressi turned Miss Piggy into a giant eagle so I could get at that pesky dragon who thought he was smart by taking to the sky to avoid a Paladin's smite. Piggy adjusted right away, but it doesn't seem as though that is the way we are going, which is fine too".

Succotash was actually looking forward to using his Animal Shapes spell, but he keeps it to himself, since most of the party feels walking is best. After Bliss's Hero's Breakfast, He straps his handy haversack to his back, and mounts Valerie, and makes ready to cross the creek, to begin heading in the direction of the temple. He is prepared to cast "Find the Path" again if needed.

active spells & daily stuff:

Succotash:
heroes feast (13 temp HP)
dimensional hop 150ft/150ft
speak with animals 18/18 (rounds/day)
positive channels 9/9

Valerie:
heroes feast (9 temp HP)

Heroes Feast
You bring forth a great feast, including a magnificent table, chairs, service, and food and drink. The feast takes 1 hour to consume, and the beneficial effects do not set in until this hour is over. Every creature partaking of the feast is cured of all sickness and nausea, receives the benefits of both neutralize poison and remove disease, and gains 1d8 temporary hit points + 1 point per two caster levels (maximum +10) after imbibing the nectar-like beverage that is part of the feast. The ambrosial food grants each creature that partakes a +1 morale bonus on attack rolls and Will saves and a +4 morale bonus on saving throws against poison and fear effects for 12 hours.

CatBliss HP154/154+7 AC33 | Mookie HP76/76+14 AC40 | Cayzle
Thursday June 4th, 2020 6:41:21 AM

"Oh yeah, breakfast! How could I forget!"

Bliss summons the feast and digs in.

"MMMM! Bacon!"

Hobie (Nick T) HP 126/126 AC 32 Touch 18 Flat 27 CMD 33 Hero Points 8 Prepared Spells
Thursday June 4th, 2020 1:55:39 PM
Hobie will dive into the Hero's Feast and eat his fill.

"Alright, lead on with your find the Path! I'm down for eagling if everyone else is"

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