DM Steve -- Stone Temple village d20+5=21 ; Saturday April 25th, 2020 1:17:45 AM
Attius returns after Akuno's stunning speech, having missed Thorondir's faux pas as well. He waves back at Sol before he walks into an earful from Grindar that is seconded by Bigby and 'Lil.
Attius'es reaction is measured, but sincere. "Sentient trees? You mean like treants? Of course we knew that the groves have treants, but believe me, no one thought that they would be the source of druid wood. If anything, we thought the druids could use any sort of tree for it."
Sense motive: DC 10 Highlight to display spoiler: {Attius did not know what kind of tree druid wood came from.} DC 21 Highlight to display spoiler: {Although he did not know what kind of tree the wood came from, he did not believe the druids made it.}
"Actually, druid wood comes from the cosantóir na bhféarach. Not quite the same as a treant, just like an elf is not the same as a human." Virgil explains. "I think those outside the druid community call them Singing Oaks."
When 'Lil mentions a business-like lady, Attius responds, "Edith, yes. She spoke to me just now. Wanted you to know we've recruited the craftsmen you'll need and they should be here in a week or two. Meanwhile, I need to send word to Smithira Brighthammer that you were successful."
When Virgil looks confused at the last name, Attius explains that Brighthammer was selected leader of Rattledam.
"Ah," says Virgil. "I'm sure our young friends here would like to take word to Rattledam themselves in the morning. I'll prepare seó cumhachta do na sráidbhailte to help them on their way. But if you would, Attius, I'd like to take that time for myself to look at the Stone Temple."
Attius agrees with Virgil's request, and asks that they take Akuno with them in case Rattledam has heard of her homeland. He also tells the party that their previous lodgings are still available.
If you understand druidic Highlight to display spoiler: { "Cosantóir na bhféarach" means "Defender of the Grasslands". "Seó cumhachta do na sráidbhailte" means "a show of power for the villagers" }
Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 27/27 -- Aewen: AC 11 -- HP 13/13 d20+4=21 ; Saturday April 25th, 2020 6:05:56 PM
Thorondir smiles at the reaction of the little cat girl. Clearly, she will be interesting.
"Akuno, I did not mean to insult you. Cross pollination isn't an insult though, plants have been doing it for a long time. Perhaps you will become a new species if there is another of your kind to mate with. I'll keep an eye out for you. I don't suppose Bigby Wolf here will do, him being a dog and you a cat." Then, with a grin he adds "I am glad to learn that you are a hero, we could use more of those. I also accept your offer of servitude."
sense motive 21 To Attius, he says "Well, it seems to me that you knew more than you are letting on about druid wood. Suffice it to say that obtaining it won't be easy for you in the future. Though, we do have Genyielt (taps the trunk) here to deal with."
Looking to Virgil he nods, and says "Let me know if I can be of assistance in preparing the seó cumhachta do na sráidbhailte, I'm sure it will be most useful."
Aewen continues to circle, looking for a meal.
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 d20+2=6 ; Sunday April 26th, 2020 10:18:23 AM
Grindar is clueless as to whether or not Attius is being honest, so assumes he is. He asks Akuno, “Miss Neko, if you don’t mind me asking, what skill set do you bring to the table? It helps to know each other’s strengths and weaknesses, when traveling together.” After the discussion with Akuno, Grindar says to his friends, ”I wonder what can be made out of those beetle wings, does anyone object to me taking them to a smith and asking?” If no one objects, he will head to the caravan and look for an armor smith. If he finds one, he will ask the smith, ”Good sir, my friends and I obtained these beautiful carapaces on our recent journey , and was wondering what kind of beautiful armors/shields could be made from these lovely things?
Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 44/44; CMD: 15 Sunday April 26th, 2020 1:36:45 PM
Caelwyn blinks in astonishment at Akuno's monologue. Hmm, he thinks, this will be interesting...
However, he smiles, and nods at her. "Pleased to meet you. I appreciate your desire to work hard and assist others - such is the will of the gods."
He also barely restrains his laughter at the dialogue between Thorondir and the beastfolk. Those semi-isolationist elves...they sometimes weren't aware of proper decorum. Can't really blame him.
Caelwyn is pleased that Attius and Virgil seem to understand each other and be on good terms. He agrees that they need to speak with Edit, and appreciates Grindar's questions about the insect carapaces. He hopes they can make them into something useful.
'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 18/12/16 - CMD 17 d20+10=19 ; Monday April 27th, 2020 9:50:07 AM
'Lil ain't touching none a this beastfolk crossbreeding business. No sir.
She figures Attius really didn't know that sentient trees were where druidwood came from, so she lets that go too.
The whole business with Edith concerns her, but the decision ain't hers to make. That's all Virgil's call. She exhales a bit when she realizes that for this moment, she doesn't have much to worry about. She's pretty stoked that Virgil will be able to get them back to Rattledam fast. She hopes everything's still good there.
Akuno Neko (Ken) AC 15 / CMD 17 - 20/20 Hp Monday April 27th, 2020 11:40:42 AM
"Akuno looks from Thoromir to Bigby. Deeps shades of red color her cheeks. "Now listen here you perverted druid, I'm not trying to drop a litter with some random mutt or tomcat! I'm a girl of stature and noble birth! My betrothed will be some other ruler or noble, not just anyone who has the fitting parts to.. to.. make kittens!"
When Thoromir "accepts her servitude", she snatches up her parasol, then kicks her unseen servant at him from across the grass. She's about to follow up with another, when Grindar. gets her attention. Grumbling, she's only too happy to be distracted.
"I'm a sorceress. Magic comes to me easily, so long as I follow my destiny." She grins. "Wanna see? Wanna see what I can do?" She points to a spot in the grass, and a moment later, a translucent disk hovers in place. "Isn't that neat! Isn't it great?" She pulls a few pillows from within her backpack, and tosses them on the disk. If anything, it does look comfortable.
Sitting cross-legged on her disk, her dress tucked carefully away so as not to be improper, Akuno grins. "I can also change my temperature and make ice cubes and stuff. Then there's the unseen servants. I can summon those guys like all day long." Impressed with herself, Akuno lounges back into her pillows.
She then responds to Caelwyn., nimbly hopping off her disk into a well practiced curtsy. She takes a moment to consider his weapons, armor, and his holy symbol of Domi.
"Likewise, noble and handsome knight! I trust in your arms and valor to protect me. I happily place myself into your care!" She looks to be ready to say more, to whom its not quite clear, when a loud gurgle interrupts her own chatter. She looks down sheepishly at her stomach. "Uh, I know we've got a secret meeting and stuff, but maybe afterwards we could grab some food? One of the tavern owners here offered me dinner as thanks, and it would be rude not to reward her generosity with an appearance."
BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 d20+2=19 ; Monday April 27th, 2020 12:25:00 PM
sense motive 19. probably something to it, but I'm hungry. Bigby just chuckles at what Thorondir suggests. it's not easy to make him laugh in the lands of the Sargrass. I mean Bigby had been swallowed by a frog, ate by giant fire ants, and chased by cannibals, and there was more that happened. He figured laugh while you're still alive. He was going to say something in response to Akuno but decided against it. this one was very different from the only other female he knew 'Lil."Anyhow, let's get some food."
Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour d20+1=14 ; d20+1=12 ; d20+12=31 ; Monday April 27th, 2020 4:08:09 PM
((OoC Sense motive - 14, Arcana to Identify the spell - 31))
Sol believes Attius, and has no reason to further doubt him. However when he hears Akuno say 'Sorceress' he perks up and pays closer attention, after she casts the spell he smiles widely, looking over it.
"Ah! A floating disk! An impressive spell... it is good to see another Arcane caster out here."
He smiles brightly, offering her a hand.
"Elijah Solomon. But my friends call me Sol. I am also a student of the Arcane arts... though perhaps not as... naturally gifted as you."
Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 44/44; CMD: 15 Monday April 27th, 2020 9:50:10 PM
Caelwyn smiles. "By Domi's will, lady, I shall do all in my power to protect you and all other innocents. Such is my calling."
He agrees with Lil's feelings as well. "I wonder how things are in Rattledam...it seems ages since we left."
DM Steve -- Stone Temple village Monday April 27th, 2020 11:36:01 PM
Virgil listens to the group and turns to Attius. Quietly, he asks, "You really think she'll learn anything useful? . . . Very well." He addresses the group with a smile, "Well, I'm sure you have things to do. Just be back in the morning. You, too, Miss Neko."
Virgil and Attius stay talking to each other, giving everyone else a chance to spend the afternoon and evening doing whatever needs catching up on. Grindar has said he wants to go to the caravan. The group can go with him, or split up until dinner.
As you debate what to do, Virgil is asking Attius for his opinion of Edith.
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 28th, 2020 6:45:47 AM
Grindar asks if anyone wants to join him, as he heads to caravan to see what can be done with the beetle wings, and perhaps get a appraisal. With or without his friends, he seeks out a armor smith and asks, ”Good sir, in our journey we obtained these lovely items, and was wondering what a skilled smith such as yourself could craft out of them, or for that matter, what they may be worth in their raw condition?”
'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 18/12/16 - CMD 17 Tuesday April 28th, 2020 2:07:23 PM
Grindar really wanted that tower shield. Seems like he's asking everyone he can. She need both'er hands to wield Maya, so it ain't for 'Lil.
She sits back and takes in this new cat girl. She sure seemed impressed by her own abilities. 'Lil grew up in Hook City, though. She knew minor magics when she saw'em. Still better than 'Lil could manage; she couldn't do squat without askin' Domi for help, and she wasn't about to go puttin' down this girl.
Maybe she'd stick around. 'Lil's gotten used to being the only woman in the party. She might have to stop callin' them her dudes...or maybe not. "Hey Akuno, how would ya feel about being called a dude?"
Akuno Neko (Ken) AC 15 / CMD 17 - 20/20 Hp Tuesday April 28th, 2020 3:12:35 PM
When Akuno hears someone request food, her ears perk up. "Yea! Lets go get some f---", as she turns, she notes that its coming from the Dogperson. Her tail flicks, and she starts to hestiantly agree, when Caelywn, fresh off his vow of protection, catches her attention instead.
"Ah! So valiant! Tell me, are all here your retinue? Do they travel in service to you and the cause you follow? She looks at Bigby, then back to Caelwyn. "Is that one perhaps your squire?" She tries to follow his conversations a little. "What is Rattledam?"
When Sol introduces himself as a wizard, Akunos eyes become saucer sized. "I've never met a wizard before. Is it true you can learn any spell you want? I can cheat a little, I'm pretty good at reading scrolls and things, but my own spells are pretty much limited to things that make life easier for me. It started when I was a kid." The irony of her only been sixteen, yet referring to her childhood, is seemingly lost on the catgirl."I read lots of books about princesses and heroes as a kid. Their stories of lives of luxury were all I wanted more than anything. When my magic developed, it took that sort of form. Servants, ease, luxury, and assistance.. magic brought me everything my upbringing left out of reach. I don't know when, or if that will change, but each spell I discover seems to have something to do with the yearnings of my childhood."
When 'Lil asks her a question, she looks a little confused. She sticks a finger under her chin and look up, like the answer might be in the sky somewhere. "Uhm, gee. I dunno really. I've never heard that word. Is it salacious? Unsavory? Does it mean I'm a certain kind of disreputable woman? I don't mean insult, but I hear adventurers can be pretty uncouth." Akuno seems to consider it for a moment more, then smiles big. "As long as it isn't anything that would cause scandal for my parents or my kingdom, I don't mind being called your dude, Lady 'Lil!"
All the excitement had caused Akuno to forget all about her sad stomach, until it finally grumbled again. She didn't like eating alone, and yet only one person had taken her up on food. She looks at Bigby again, and she is clearly troubled. Finally, she takes a deep breath, approaches him. She suddenly conjures up a little bit of excitement, as best as she can. "Hewwo!", she speaks excitedly, as if talking to a puppy. "Does the big fella wanna take a walk!? Hmm?" She shakes a bit of rope, sort of like a leash. "Does the big guy want dinner? Huh? Where's your bowl? Bring Akuno your bowl!"
She shoots Attius a glance. He told her she needed to get along with everyone, and quite clearly, she was killing it. She was surprised at how great she was sometimes. She gives him a big ol' thumbs up, and looks back to Bigby. She slaps her leg and jerks her head towards a place for food.
"C'mon boy! C'mon!" She then gives everyone else one last shot to save her from eating alone with a dog. "Anyone else can come too, of course! Anyone at all!"
Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 27/27 -- Aewen: AC 11 -- HP 13/13 Tuesday April 28th, 2020 3:34:46 PM
So, the little cat girl has some spunk. That could come in handy perhaps. "Pardon me Akuno, I did not mean to imply that you were ready to breed. Perhaps that will come later, when some time has passed and you have had a chance to .. oh what is that term in common? Mature? Anyway, I'm sure a courtship would be involved anyway. Forget I said anything." Clearly, upon eyeing her upon the floating disk he does not seem too concerned about being assaulted with a fluffy pillow.
Certainly when the cat girl goes over and calls to the dog boy that clinches it. "Dudes, I will join you for some supper.
Aewen continues to hunt from above, and Thorondir looks up with longing. He would much rather go up and join her. Fresh kill and eating as an eagle is much preferable.
BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 Tuesday April 28th, 2020 5:02:59 PM
Bigby was about to go for a bite but heard grindar offer to go to the caravan and decides to go with the big guy. "I'll go with ya Grindar. perhaps we can get a hunt in on the way back." He looks to Neko, "perhaps we can rain check. Sorry, but we he points to Wolfgang and himself,don't wear leashes. Those are for slaves or pets. We aren't either of those and never will be. Hope you enjoy your meal." He wispers to Wolfgang, as he walks away, "you believe her?" They chuckle.
Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour Tuesday April 28th, 2020 6:08:37 PM
Sol nods.
"Yes, I think I'd be capable of learning any spell you put in front of me... might take me some time and more than one attempt though to be honest with you..."
He smiles.
"Food sounds good, if you were still looking for company?"
DM Steve -- Stone Temple village Tuesday April 28th, 2020 11:41:45 PM
Wolfgang and Llew remain out of the village proper, at least for now.
'Lil, Caewyn: Highlight to display spoiler: {Pick one or the other group to go with, and read their spoiler.}
Grindar, Bigby: Highlight to display spoiler: { The smith looks Grinder over before answering, "I'd pay fifteen gold each for those if you're looking to sell them. As for what you can make from them, I can turn them into shields. Among the Harvesters, some use them to make armor."
While Grindar is talking to the armor smith, the weapon smith also comes over. "Son of Grindor! I'm glad I got the chance to see you before we left. I remembered you were looking for someone to remake your father's axe. Well, I've got a bit of news. I met a guy from another caravan that came through here, one from Zaran City. He said there's a gnomish craftsman there who could do a job like that. I looked at his work, and it was real good. He'd be reliable about that sort of talent."
Wandering around the caravan a bit, it's clear the merchants have changed somewhat since the party was last here. More craftsmen have stayed than traders, but even the craftsmen have turned over to a large degree. There is a wagon with a connection to the Catacombs; it's one of the wagons leaving soon. There, Bigby learns that the nearest WLA chapterhouse is in Zaran City.}
Akuno, Thorondor, Sol: Highlight to display spoiler: { It's a bit early for dinner, but Akuno's stomach is growling and she was offered free dinners at Cullivers, so...
Sol remembers Cullivers as the rival tavern to the Crystal Palace, which holds frequent singing contests. Singing is popular among the monks, who are famous for manipulating the crystals of the nearby mountains with their songs.
As the group enters Cullivers, they are greeted and shown to seats. The tavern has three long tables, where patrons typically grab any available seat. This early the place is not full. The group is steered to the middle of the center table. Service is a little slow considering the small number of patrons, but the food comes and it's pretty good.
"Hey, you fought the chupacabras didn't you? Glad to have you back," someone says to Sol. The guy is happy to buy Sol and his companions a drink as he sits and makes idle talk. As the afternoon grows older and more patrons come, the group find themselves in the center of a growing crowd. }
The crew that went to the caravans ends up at Cullivers for dinner, knowing that's where their friends were going. They find the patrons of the tavern mostly clustered around the group that's already there, in the center of the room, making sitting with them difficult to impossible.
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 29th, 2020 5:51:44 AM "Thank you good sir, I will talk to my comrades, and together we will decide what to do with these things", Grindar says with a smile. Turning to the weaponsmith, Grindar asks, "Where is Zaran City? I would very much like to talk to this gnome!"
At Cullvers, Grindar shares what he learned with the rest of his crew, and asks, "So do we want to sell them, have this gentleman craft shields out of them, or ask Freakshow if either he or his people could make some armor out of them, when we get back to Rattledam. I'm no expert, but I can't see why one of these things couldn't be made into a breastplate, and since it would be natural materials, Bigby, Thorondor, or myself would be able to wear them, and there are two of them!" It is clear by his enthusiasm that he would rather talk to Freakshow. He also shares his desire to travel to Zaran City.
'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 18/12/16 - CMD 17 Wednesday April 29th, 2020 3:12:24 PM
'Lil looks at Caelwyn as the party splits. "Dibs on the fun group," she says and trots along after Sol and the newbies.
"Dude," she explains, "is a slang term for a guy who's generally a..." She stops. How do you explain dude without the word dude?
"It means a good guy," is what she settles with. "I been the only woman in the group since that healer got taken out cuz'a sea sickness. I've been keepin' these dudes alive since. Obviously you ain't a guy, but it's super easy to refer to the rest of the group as 'my dudes'. If anything, it might cause some scandal because'a bein' too familiar for someone of your station." It's almost a joke, but 'Lil's curious to watch her response.
'Lil's glad to have civilized food again. She eats hardily.
BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 Wednesday April 29th, 2020 4:07:58 PM
"we gotta eventually go to zaran city. I'll eventually need to pay my 1000 dues. Maybe Sol should get one of the amulets. Just a thought."
Once back with everyone Bigby will join for dinner. "What did we miss?"
Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 27/27 -- Aewen: AC 11 -- HP 13/13 Wednesday April 29th, 2020 5:07:07 PM
Thorondir sits at the table, happy the place isn't too crowded. "So Akuno, I think you may have insulted Bigby, the wolf boy. I'm with him, ropes don't belong on free creatures. You seem good hearted though, so I'm sure things will get better. I'm new here too, so I really don't know any of these folks."
Thorondir happily eats his food, and enjoys the drink provided by Sol's friend. "So Sol, you fought a chupacabra? They are foul creatures, best to be rid of them. I'd be happy to help if you ever meet another."
Then, the crowd grows. Thorondir is not very happy, he sits looking around constantly, hoping to get out soon, or at least avoid trouble in such a crowded setting.
Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour Wednesday April 29th, 2020 5:29:02 PM
Sol smiles and offers his thanks to the bar patron as he buys a round of drinks.
"Erm... well... yes. But I must be honest... I did not do much. I seem to have an incredible talent for missing with my spells... besides I am not really a warrior. Lil, Caelwyn, Grindar and Bigby are the ones who really defeated the Chupacabra, I was just there."
He smiles self deprecatingly.
"I unfortunately do not have much might either physical..." he indicates his rather wiry and slim body. "... or arcane to be much help in a fight. Though I am learning, and my studies will hopefully one day allow me to be quite effective... or so I am hoping."
Akuno Neko (Ken) AC 15 / CMD 17 - 20/20 Hp Wednesday April 29th, 2020 11:40:26 PM
Akuno watches Bigby ride away. She cocks her head abit sideways, then gives the leash one final shake. She looks down to her side and tosses it to an unseen servant, who starts to coil it at her request. One fang poking out, her mouth sets a hard line. With a grumble, she cups her hands and yells. "Yea! Well, it wasn't like I was hoping you would come or anything! I was just being polite cuz I don't like eating alone!" She turns and locks arms with Sol, and has him escort her, with the others, to the inn. She makes a point to squeeze in between 'Lil and Sol.
Eating with the others, she orders the fish. As soon as it hits the table in front of her, Akuno starts munching. In between mouthfuls, she answers some questions.
"That's fine then 'Lil. While nobility should avoid becoming too familiar and lowering the awe held for those of station, behind every great king, queen, or princess is a cadre of advisors, knights, and friends who are allowed the privilege of familiarity. I'd be pleased if we became that close, so Dude is just fine!" She beams a smile a 'Lil, oblivious to the fish on her cheek.
When Thorondir suggests she insulted Bigby, she clams up a little. Her tail flicks in agitation, whapping against Sol more than once.
"So? He refused our fine company. And people shouldn't think of the leash as slavery, its guidance!" She pouts a little, and wiggles her shoulders with what might possibly be guilt. "Besides, I don't know how smart a dog boy is, or how to talk to him. I thought if I wiggled the rope at him and teased him just a little, he might come play with us, ya know? I think chasing string is fun, as long as commoners aren't watching." She sits for a moment, a bit melancholy, before banging her tiny fists on the table and tearing into whats left of her dinner to shake off the mood. She grabs her drink and gulps it down.
When Sol starts putting himself down, Akuno slaps him on the back and shoves the new drinks towards him with so much gusto its a miracle he isn't soaked. "Don't say that! I don't know anything at all about being an adventurer. I've never even seen a monster, just bad people. But if Caelwyn and Grindar and Lil all want you around, then that means you are a capable adventurer too!"
When Bigby and Grindar make it in, she's done with the fish and three rounds of drinks. Red cheeks and watery eyes, she squints at Bigby. Leaning close, close enough for him to feel her breath on his nose, she reaches up and pets his left ear. She considers him for a second, then says. "Dude. I think my ears are softer than yours."
DM Steve -- Stone Temple village Thursday April 30th, 2020 12:39:28 AM
Most of the group enjoys their hero's welcome back to the Stone Temple village, and the less social members survive somehow. Before it gets too late, the group decides to head to their lodgings. For Grindar, 'Lil, Bigby, Sol, and Caelwyn that means the large room they were assigned when they were last here, and where Wolfgang and Llew are waiting. For Akuno it's a different room near the administrators' lodgings. And Thorondir seems to prefer the open sky to the village tonight, knowing that there's a portion of the grove nearby.
The next morning, everyone is up early, either with excitement or disquiet at the prospect of going to Rattledam.
After greeting you at the field turned grove, Virgil says he plans to stay here. "The Stone Temple was built by the druids of an earlier age, you know. I'd like the chance to visit it." He is afraid this won't be a long trip, though. "Let Rattledam know what you've done, say your hellos to folks, but don't stay long. Genyielt is here, and this is where we'll be building the ship."
Not unexpectedly, a small crowd has gathered to watch.
Virgil starts casting, and a cloud of fog appears among the trees. As he continues, a low sound starts, becoming an ethereal humming. "The way is prepared," he says after a minute, gesturing for you to enter the fog.
The fog is so thick you can't see five feet, but within it there is a shimmering "tube" or "pipe" of swirling air about six feet in diameter leading further into the fog, flanked by three squirrel guys standing there and waiting. They are humming along with the music the tube is making. One goes in; the others wait, then fall in behind as the group follows the first. Once inside, your strides eat up the miles as the Sar speeds past. It is a mere five hour walk to Rattledam.
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 d20+11=13 ; Thursday April 30th, 2020 5:53:14 AM
With Llew by his side, Grindar is almost giddy at the prospect of returning to what he considers home. he casts speak with animals so he can talk to Llew and comfort him letting him know that this strange fog/tube is Okay, and the squirrel creatures are friends not food. Turning to Akuno he says, "Miss Neko, as this is your first time in the fey corridor, you should know that there isn't anything to be afraid of, unless of course another mutation bloom decides to disrupt things". He chuckles as he mentions the mutation bloom, but deep inside he does worry about it happening again.
As they step out of the fey corridor, he looks around to take in any changes that may have occurred since their departure. In particular, he is looking to see how far the others have advanced with the rebuilding of the town. He also scans the area looking for Freakshow, Needle, Ahyoka, and the rest. (perception 13)
BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 Thursday April 30th, 2020 3:56:43 PM
Bigby grins at Neko's comment about the ears. Maybe they will be friends. He introduces her to Wolfgang. "this is wolfgang. He likes to be pet behind the ears." Wolfgang looks up at Neko with big eyes awaiting her response.
'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 18/12/16 - CMD 17 Thursday April 30th, 2020 5:17:58 PM
'Lil tries to remember if she has a "home" to return to in Rattledam. If not, they'd need to get one fast.
She's half way through the tunnel when she starts wondering how they'll get back to start crafting that ship. Can Virgil open a tunnel from the other end and still let them travel along it? Maybe these squirrel dudes can do it.
Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 27/27 -- Aewen: AC 11 -- HP 13/13 Thursday April 30th, 2020 9:29:55 PM
Thorondir gets out of the crowded Cullivers just in time. Immediately on stepping outside, he jumps off the step and take the shape of an eagle. Quickly he leaves behind the stench caused by crowding too many in one place, and he finds Aewen and they fly together in lazy circles. As the sun sets, they land in the grove. Aewen finds a good perch, and Thorondir turns back into his self and settles into a large notch in the tree. Somehow, the energy coming up through the roots grounds Thorondir too.
As the crowd gathers, Thorondir finally meets with the others with Aewen on his shoulder. Right before he steps into the fog he says "Next time warn me before I get stuck in a crowded room, I'd rather fight orcs." Looking at Grindar he adds "No offense"
Akuno Neko (Ken) AC 15 / CMD 17 - 20/20 Hp Thursday April 30th, 2020 10:30:28 PM
The next morning is positively dreadful, according to poor Akuno. Her mouth is dry, her head hurts, and for some reason, she smells like wolf. She racks her brain trying to remember what happened, but every time she gets a picture in her mind of her being WAY too close to Bigby, and he tells her in a husky voice to pet him behind his ears.
"Eeeee! No way!, she shrieks. Her sudden jerk knocks the hairbrush from her unseen servants grasp, and it has to pick it up again. She looks at where she thinks the servant should be. "It must have been Wolfgang. It HAD to be Wolfgang!" The unseen servant says nothing, of course. "I'm never drinking again!, she vows to one of her unseen servants. It had heard this before, and doubted greatly that her prohibition would last.
She takes a few steps outside, and with each step one her head hurts more than the last. "Nope." She says. It was clearly too much.
Akuno Neko had never considered anything to be a waste of magic. As she finds her way to the others, she is lounging in a floating disc secured to an unseen servant by a rope. Laying back in the disc full of pillows, she is being fanned by a second servant, who is also holding a flask of chilled juice with a straw that Akuno seeks out with as little movement as possible.
When Grindar tells her about the fey corridor, she gives a weak thumbs up. Then, for the first time, she suddenly notices Llew. She sits up fast enough to topple her fan-servant and spill her juice. "That's a pretty kitty." she says, before collapsing back into her pillows, where she conjures her servants back into place.
Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 44/44; CMD: 15 Thursday April 30th, 2020 11:31:26 PM
Caelwyn tagged along with Bigby and Grindar, listening to what the merchants and craftsmen had to say. "I am definitely interested in turning those wings into some kind of armor or shield...I could make use of a tower shield, perhaps? And as you say, several of us could wear a breastplate of this material."
He is glad the walk to Rattledam will be shorter, but he is a bit nervous. "It seems a while since we left...do you think everyone is doing alright?" He sends up a prayer to Domi that they find a town that is thriving, or at least surviving.
DM Steve -- Rattledam Friday May 1st, 2020 12:22:45 AM
Rattledam looks like a village. Which is to say that the mounds of earth where grass will not grow now have small grass huts on them instead of tents. Grindar looks for people, but sees none. At least not at first. While the party is walking towards the town, a shout goes up. Shortly after that, people start appearing from the huts. Caelwyn is glad to see they look well enough off.
First to reach the party is Smithira. The red-headed dwarf looks tired as she welcomes the party. "Looks like you had no luck, but we're glad to have you back. You're looking good. Who are your new friends?"
Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour Friday May 1st, 2020 2:23:21 AM
Sol smiles widely at being back at Rattledam, this smile seems a little brighter and happier than his normal smile.
"It is good to be back... these are some other fellows we met along the way, who wanted to help us. That is Akuno and Thorondir." He indicates each in turn. "Akuno may be feeling a little worse for wear... she perhaps drank a little too much last night. However, as for not having any luck... well we did... but I think it is perhaps best to let someone who is more knowledgeable explain the situation..."
He pauses getting a little awkward and uncertain of himself.
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 May 1st, 2020 6:53:14 AM
Grindar chuckles at Thorodir’s orc comment, and then says, “I’m only half orc, and to be honest, I’ve never met a full one, I’m a second generation half-orc after all!”
He is so happy to see Smithira he almost reaches out to give her a bear hug, but restrains himself. He says”I see progress has been made since we left, I’m glad to see it! How have things faired since we left, and where is everyone?” He’s so happy he momentarily forgets all about the ship that is under construction in the Crystal Mountains.
'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 18/12/16 - CMD 17 Friday May 1st, 2020 3:39:53 PM
'Lil makes a mental note: new girl can't handle her liquor. She's sure that'll be fun someday.
"We had luck, it was just mostly bad," 'Lil starts. "We got plenty of druidwood, and I sure hope it's worth what it cost a bunch'a really great druids. There's a bunch'a dudes descending on a village over yonder to start building a ship from the body of a druid tree named Genyielt. We didn't get a chance to get to know him, but we saw him save a bunch'a lives and kill a bunch'a mutants tryin' to kill us.
"His friend Virgil is with his remains. He decided to go ahead and let his friend get turned into a boat. That upset a whole bunch of druids. The boat will be his to captain, though."
BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 d20+10=15 ; Friday May 1st, 2020 3:42:11 PM so this is home, Bigby thought. It's funny, it though I fight for the people here, it doesn't quite feel like home. But maybe it could be home for Bigby and Wolfgang.
Bigby and Wolfgang hunt if there's time for it. oh the joy of the hunt.
"Let us know when it is time to go. We will be ready."
Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 27/27 -- Aewen: AC 11 -- HP 13/13 Friday May 1st, 2020 9:48:40 PM
Thorondir nods as he is introduced. "Please let me know if I can be of service." As he glances around, he notices that Bigby and Wolfgang are off to a hunt. With a grin, he adds "Excuse me, I need to go help Bigby."
Tossing Aewen into the air, Thorondir turns into an eagle and follows her. Nothing like ground hunters to scare up game for an eagle.
Akuno Neko (Ken) AC 15 / CMD 17 - 20/20 Hp Friday May 1st, 2020 10:55:39 PM
Feeling better, Akuno sits quietly on her pillow-disc for a moment, tail flickering in apprehension of being in a new space. Everyone else had something to do here, or some place to go visit. She was pretty a much a stranger in these parts, with a handful of one-day acquaintances.
She's pieced together a bit of the mess that these adventurers had found themselves in, but couldn't manage in her brain how to console someone for the loss of a tree. She figured it would be best to let them wrap this adventure up themselves.
Looking down at an unseen servant, she dismisses her disc and pats it on the head. "No fear little guy, Akuno is here! I'll find us some fish! That'll make you feel better! No cat worth her catnips afraid of a strange alley!" The servant quivered, its own version of a sigh, and lifted her parasol in one hand, and held her drink in the other before hustling after its mistress.
DM Steve -- Rattledam d20+18=24 ; Friday May 1st, 2020 11:57:07 PM Sol: Highlight to display spoiler: {The fairy diddles (sqirrel dudes) have been talking among themselves in Sylvan, and Sol has overheard enough to know that they must rest before another journey. As the townsfolk approach, though, the diddles vanish.} -----
Smithira gets suddenly serious when she hears 'Lil. "We'll pull the village leaders together tonight. They'll all want to hear what you have to say."
Bigby and Thorondir: Highlight to display spoiler: {The foursome enjoy an afternoon of hunting. As Bigby knows, Rattledam can always use a little extra food, if the hunt goes well.}
Akuno: Highlight to display spoiler: {The search for fish in the back alleys of a small, grass hut village in the middle of an arid grassland is, unfortunately, both unsuccessful and short. She runs into a thin elf with a blue mowhawk and lots of cheek and nose rings. But when she explains what she's looking for he starts talking about eating grass. She is later approached by Taggert, a tall man who'd been talking to Caelwyn earlier. He's more helpful than mohawk was. Although they do not find any fish, he does get her some 'prairie pig' jerky. "Sure hope to see you again," he says, sincerely, at the end of their conversation.}
Sol: Highlight to display spoiler: {"Too long has it been, Solomon. I would be happy to hear the picks you have made in the time." Needle greets Sol enthusiastically (for Needle). The two watch people together for the afternoon, talking only when the mood strikes. Never one to be unproductive, Needle also spends the time shaping a small tool out of a white rock, or perhaps a piece of bone. Sol learns that Ahyoka is leading a group looking for riggrass and the village has insect problems.}
Grindar: Highlight to display spoiler: {While Grindar is walking through town, he hears, "Hey, Grindar!" and turns to see Freakshow leaving a conversation with Akuno. "Why're you packing with that little girl? You're moonshadow, and her hands are white." The two spend the rest of the afternoon catching up. Among other things, Freakshow confirms that the beetle wings can be made into armor, although it takes time. He calls it lamellar armor, and says it can be more effective than hide armor, though not as strong as metal.}
'Lil: Highlight to display spoiler: {"We've started napping at midday now." A gnome strikes up a conversation with 'Lil. "If we've met, I'm sorry I don't remember it. But I've heard a lot about you. Name's Sprocket." 'Lil may vaguely remember hearing that the fellow's home was destroyed by bloodgrass mutants in the turmoil before the plains returned. "You've got Smithira worried. We don't know this druid who's laying claim to the boat. She asked if I'd go get a read on him." Sprocket turns out to be a good conversationalist, and had been a leader of his old village before it was destroyed. He shows 'Lil the shrine he has built to the three aspects of the Sar and talks about plans for a garden there, although he confides he prefers the Preservationist. He also asks what the monk village is like.}
Caelwyn: Highlight to display spoiler: {As he walks around the town taking in the changes, Caelwyn is approached by a tall and skinny, but very affable man. "I'm Taggert. Think I arrived just after you left." When Akuno passes by, he says, "Cute kid. Think she'll be here long?" But the topic he's most interested in is the boat. To hear him tell it, he's managed to figure out the workings of just about everything he's set his mind to. Sailing must be amazing, figuring out how to move a ship one way with the wind blowing another. "But I don't suppose I'll get the chance. Wouldn't want to bounce unless I have to."}
People spending time in town are not surprised to learn that word spread quickly through town about the meeting that night. It doesn't take long for the time to come. After being fed, the party retires to a building with Smithira and several others -- a tall, skinny man named Taggert; a muscular dwarf called Gruff; a gnome going by Sprocket; a scarred dwarf called Broag; and of course the elf with the footlong mohawk, Freakshow. There, the party members are asked to tell Smithira just about everything they've seen since they left.
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 Sunday May 3rd, 2020 4:43:50 PM
Grindar enjoys his time with Freakshow. He answers Freakshow's question by saying, "She seems more than a little up on herself I know, but if she's planning on spending any time in the Sargrass, that cat-girl has a rude awakening coming, and who knows, maybe she'll turn out to be a valuable companion after some trials". He asks the Harvester if he knows where Zaran City is, and how to get there, and asks about the cost of the lamellar armor, and how many suits could be made of the two wings, as well as how he or his friends would find a Harvester armorer.
At the meeting, Grindar notices the absence of Needle, the Climber, and their Manfri friend, Ahyoka. He wonders where they may have gone, and whether they decided to return to their homes. He decides to ask before the meeting officially begins. As the meeting begins in earnest, he allows his more Charismatic friends do talking, adding tidbits of information to fill in any blanks.
Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 27/27 -- Aewen: AC 11 -- HP 13/13 Sunday May 3rd, 2020 8:48:57 PM
Thorondir returns from hunting, bringing any meat to share with the community.
When the meeting starts, he tries to stay towards the edge as he watches and listens.
Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 44/44; CMD: 15 Sunday May 3rd, 2020 9:35:38 PM
Caelwyn does his best to fill everyone in on the details of their adventures. "We have actually found great success, but it has come at a cost. We hope soon to have a great ship to sail above the grasses, bringing all we need to and from Rattledam! But we must protect and venerate it, for it's timber and beams come from an ancient, living creature...one of the fabled druid trees."
BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 Monday May 4th, 2020 11:57:06 AM
Bigby welcomes Thorondir in the hunt. He's still amazed at hunting through the air. Not being one that is good with communication, he makes his attempt with Thorondir. Ahem, so cool bird, what's his name? Bigby focuses on the land hunt. the air rushing through his fur. The heightened sense of smell of the Sargrass around him. And the thrill of catching something. All of the things that make hunting with Wolfgang so fun. Bigby heads back with any food they caught proudly with a smile.
Lil (Jeremy subbing) Monday May 4th, 2020 5:36:16 PM
Lil is about to share what the party has been up to, but when Caelwyn steps up, she lets him roll with it. When he's done, she gives him her signature punch in the shoulder, and says, "Well spoken dude!"
Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour Monday May 4th, 2020 6:24:03 PM
Sol relaxes and allows himself to not stress, despite the harsh situations they have found themselves in. He enjoys Needle's company, and the silence just as much. He uses the time to update his diary and ensure that it is accurate and correct, double checking with other members of the party to ensure he has every down. ((If any member of the party refuses to help, just let me know, but I'm kind of assuming you're all willing to answer!))
He is somewhat excited for the evening, to see what it brings, and what new problems they will no doubt have to deal with, which far from being a bad thing in Sol's eyes, is indeed something he looks forward to, a way of using his Arcane powers helpfully.
Akuno Neko (Ken) AC 15 / CMD 17 - 20/20 Hp Monday May 4th, 2020 9:58:15 PM
Having met Freakshow, who seems to have known her other acquaintances, Akuno tags along with the others. As people decide to step up, or back off, she finds herself somewhat gravitating to Sol.
She sits next to him, her legs kicking. "Did you know this place doesn't have fish?", she asks. It was clear this place needed someone to save it.
DM Steve -- Rattledam Tuesday May 5th, 2020 8:58:47 AM
(Sorry, guys, I think I messed up coordinating the hand-off...)
The leaders of Rattledam listen attentively. They "oooh" and "aah" appropriately, worry over the encounters with the swarms, and ask everyone to elaborate -- particularly asking for more details on the peoples you have met and the mutation bloom. When all is said, though, they are concerned that they don't know the man who will captain the boat, or the grove that he comes from. Smithira proposes that Sprocket return with the heroes to meet Virgil. After a bid by Taggert to be the one who goes, and much discussion, the group agrees with Smithira's plan, provided that the party is willing.
Subbing for Lil (Jeremy) Tuesday May 5th, 2020 5:29:53 PM
"Don't everyone fight over who's going to join us!", Lil says as Taggert, and Sprocket both bid to join the party on a return trip to the Crystal Mountain.
Grindar (Jeremy) Tuesday May 5th, 2020 5:33:48 PM
"Oh great, now we have to head back to the Stone Temple, and we just got here!" Grindar thinks to himself, "And we get to protect Sprocket too. Yeah!" He keeps his thoughts to himself of course, and says, "I suppose we can leave in the morning".
BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 Tuesday May 5th, 2020 5:52:32 PM
Bigby looks at Grindar and 'Lil's expressions and hears what they say, and just adds, "you guys better not die.there he thought, he did his part
Bigby nods to Grindar."you missed out on the hunt. Thorondir's got an bird that hunts with him. You believe that?"
As for the equipment, "Grindar you take one of the necklaces and Sol you want one too? No offense but youre a little squishy. I don't remember what else we got.
Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 27/27 -- Aewen: AC 11 -- HP 13/13 Tuesday May 5th, 2020 7:45:04 PM
"Bigby, you and the wolf are good hunters. When you run through the bush you flush out game for us. We can also tell you where the big game are as we fly above. Perhaps next time if we coordinate our efforts we could feed more people. Though I am sure you will only kill what can be eaten."
The hunt was fun, but this gathering of people he doesn't know has Thorondir on edge. He sits quietly by, watching and trying to learn what has happened before he joined with this group, less than two days ago.
Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 44/44; CMD: 15 Tuesday May 5th, 2020 8:34:55 PM
Caelwyn sees no problems with this. "We want to get back soon anyway, to keep an eye on things and help out with the building of the ship."
He spends some time communing with Domi, thankful that Rattledam has remained safe in their absence.
This Means You Can Talk [DM Jerry] d100=96 ; d100=33 ; d100=52 ; Tuesday May 5th, 2020 10:40:06 PM
Bigby and Thorondir bring back several Blind Swallows who are very odd in that they have no eyes. Not even eye sockets. They are very tasty birds, however, when roasted properly with the right seasonings. They also catch a couple of Prairie Pigs, which will feed quite a few. They do spot a bounder, but only at a distance and it spooks the herd away quickly.
During Caelwyn's story, the group of folks gathering around grows and Smithira motions everyone to sit. No one interrupts. Then when she is done, the questions come at them so quickly, there is no way to answer them all.
A tall skinny man, known as Needle the Climber, produces a braided and painted piece of stickgrass. He holds it aloft and then hands it to Taggert Billslide and says to him, "This means you can talk."
Taggert fumbles over his words and slightly embarrassed says, "I forgot what I wanted to ask." He looks around and hands it to a young woman. "I'm Sythadriel, a weaver from DreMoria. So you're telling me that you met some Fae? And they LET you go through their territory and it was a hallway?"
After that question is answered, she passes it on to the only Manfri there and the only one that seemingly will stay in the village -- Ahyoka. "You traveled so far south that you found druid trees? And they were alive tended by druids? Tell us more!"
Ahyoka passes it to Nicephorus the only centaur in the village. "How are the monks doing? Are they still dealing with the explosions of the Crystal Mountains? And there was a museum there?"
Freakshow interrupts saying, "I was at Stone Temple Village on my last journey. There's a huge hole in the Crystal Mountains right smack in the middle of the Sargrass. That's where the explosion was." He gets shushed and says, "Oh sorry."
When done, Freakshow, evidently very curious asks, "So tell us about this boat? I for one am tired of risking my life traveling down in the grass. For sure."
After each question, the townsfolk turn to you wanting answers and details.
-----
[I'm backing up a bit in a few cases to do some detail. :)]
Grindar (Jeremy) Wednesday May 6th, 2020 5:26:38 AM
Grindar smiles at Bigby, "A three person, three beast hunt covering both the air and the ground sounds like my idea of a good time, I am sorry I missed out for sure, but I'm certain there will be more chances in the future!" During the meeting Grindar tries to be as informative as he can, though to be honest, everything has become a bit of a blur, especially after learning that they have to make a return trip so quickly, to Stone Temple Village.
Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour Wednesday May 6th, 2020 5:33:07 AM
Sol remains quiet, a little out of sorts with all this talk of Druidic things, and things he doesn't know much about. He listens intently though, memorising what he can and trying to ensure he remembers it to write down in his journal later.
Subbing for Lil (Jeremy) Wednesday May 6th, 2020 5:41:04 AM
During the meeting, Lil lets Caelwyn do most of the talking, but when Freakshow asks about the boat, she speaks up, "My dudes and I don't know a lot about the boat and how it works exactly, something to do with the druid wood trees and the Sargrass grasses not liking each, or something, so they repel each other, is about all we know, but they say that's what makes it float on the grasses, so there's that. Now I don't know if it crossed any of your minds, and it better not, but a fleet of these grass boats is out of the question! The trees that produce this wood are walking, talking, thinking beings, and killin' em would be murder, and then you have to face us, and it won't be pretty. So we will have the one ship from the remains of a fallen hero.
BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 Wednesday May 6th, 2020 3:00:58 PM
Bigby feels proud of what they had caught and smiles. When he hears what Thorondir suggests in strategy to their hunting time Bigby is overwhelmed with excitement that it comes across awkwardly. "Ahem. yes, great idea!"say something about Bigby, he's not one with words.
Bigby nods to Grindar about their future hunt.
Bigby remembers Ahyoka, "How have you been? I've remembered the trick you taught us about getting water. It's been very helpful. Thank you. The trees seem to have a bond with the druids. Some sort of pairing system. It's hard for me to understand exactly how that works, but it seems to be very special."
Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 27/27 -- Aewen: AC 11 -- HP 13/13 Wednesday May 6th, 2020 4:21:48 PM
It seems like Thorondir is finally making a friend in Bigby. Hunting together can create strong bonds. When Grindar suggests joining the next hunt, he replies "Yes, we can make a good hunting party. Four hunting on the ground and two in the air will be very efficient. We must assure though that we are not too efficient, depleting the area of game. We can talk later of strategy and a reasonable quota for a hunt."
Listening to the questions and responses, Thorondir adds: "Yes, the bond between us druids and the trees is strong. You will not understand, but the trees are like people. They have names and a long history, they are patient and do not easily adapt to the whims of men. We will not allow more of them to be cut so that you can travel about. Stay rooted in a place and do what you can where you are planted is what you can learn from them. Though some of us must wander for a while to protect them, but in time we too should grow roots."
Akuno Neko (Ken) AC 15 / CMD 17 - 20/20 Hp Wednesday May 6th, 2020 5:18:21 PM
Akuno listens to the back and forth between Thorondir and Bigby with growing levels of concern. Hunting? For every meal? How did Bigby and his wolf catch their prey? Would everything come back with dog slobber on it?
Clearly, she needed to buy more rations. Crackers and jerky could taste like rice and fish with enough prestidigitation applied.
Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 44/44; CMD: 15 Wednesday May 6th, 2020 8:36:54 PM
Caelwyn agrees with Lil and Thorondir. "As much as we want easier transport around the Sargrass, it'll be the one boat only. It's a miracle this is happening at all, in my opinion."
We talk and talk and... [DM Jerry] Wednesday May 6th, 2020 10:49:53 PM
Several react to Lil' and Bigbywolf. "But they are trees? Aren't they? You'r"e saying they are giant tree people? Do they have faces?"
"When's this boat gonna be done? How big is it?"
As the meeting progresses, everyone seems to be saying the same things over and over. There's an underlying current that can almost be physically felt. The stick is forgotten. Voices just speak out.
"But we're not safe." "We know less about less now than when we arrived." "Is one boat really the answer to all our problems?' "I didn't say it was..." "I'm glad "our" adventurers are back....maybe now..." "These adventurers are not the solution to everything..."
The meeting continues in circles, and seems to be similar to many meetings before this one.
Smithera reaches for the "stick" and tries to refocus things. So she asks the question that is on her mind, "We need to list our problems and...."
A leathery human man grabs the stick from Smithera elbowing her in the eye in the process. "All this is useless. We talk and talk and..."
Bedlam erupts! Everyone shouting and jumping to their feet.
Smithera "Granvil!! Ow my eye!"
Jarl Winspeed yells, "Granvil if you ever do....
Granvil face turning red, "If I ever what?! All we do is talk and talk. Nodin gets done! It's like you sit and wait for these wanderers to get back and now you just talk and talk and..."
Several reach to grab Granvil. He fights them trying to get loose.
"Stop fighting Granvil!"
"I'll teach you to....Ow!"
Some stand. Some try to hold Granvil. Others back away. We'en ne'r do nothin. We needs a boss. A guy in charge. Someone who knows which end of a stick is up!"
Grindar (Jeremy) Thursday May 7th, 2020 5:27:17 AM
Seeing the mayhem unfold before him, Grindar finds himself getting more and more frustrated, until finally, when Granvil tries to seize control of the meeting, his frustration turns to raw anger, as the orcish blood that runs through his veins begins to boil. The over-sized half-orc stands up, and in a booming voice that carries all his anger, he says, "WHAT IN, THE NAME OF THE GODS, DO YOU THINK YOUR DOING!!!!! We are all in this together, if you feel the need to fight someone fight me!" He thumps his chest to add emphasis to his words. "I agree that one boat isn't the answer to all our cares and woes, and one band of adventures isn't either, we all must do our part, play our role as it were. Smithera has taken up the role as de facto leader due to the fact that no one else would, and she deserves our respect, as she has done in admirable job, that said, I propose we set up a formal leadership chain, a government, if you will. Let us form a council of trustworthy individuals, with one person leading them. the council members should be elected by the people, as well as the council leader.
subbing for Lil (Jeremy) Thursday May 7th, 2020 5:34:14 AM
Lil watches the the ruckus, and is about to start smacking heads together, until Grindar steps up and confronts the masses. When Grindar is done talking, she quietly tells the half-orc, "You're kinda scary when your mad"
BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 Thursday May 7th, 2020 1:08:06 PM
Bigby comes over to Grindars side to back him up and attempts to give his stern look of disapproval. this is simply him raising an eyebrow, and then he decides to add some growling in for good effect. He looks over to Grindar to show his approval of how he's handling things.
Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 27/27 -- Aewen: AC 11 -- HP 13/13 Thursday May 7th, 2020 3:09:20 PM
Muttering under his breath, Thorondir says: "This is exactly why nature is better than people and towns. We can't get out of here soon enough for my liking."
He starts to fidget, trying to decide which animal would be best to wildshape into. A viper would be good, but these backwards folks would likely try and smash its head. Maybe a skunk, that may end this meeting sooner. He starts to smile while considering this.
'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 18/12/16 - CMD 17 Thursday May 7th, 2020 3:55:47 PM
A thought crosses her head. She tries to let it go, but that really ain't her thing, you know?
"In my experience," she starts, "folks what complain about talking and not doing usually either don't do nothin' themselves, or just can't think about no one but themselves. We risked our lives to get wood for a boat. This place grew up while we were gone, so obviously something is getting done."
Akuno Neko (Ken) AC 15 / CMD 17 - 20/20 Hp Thursday May 7th, 2020 7:55:35 PM
Akuno can't help but be covered in an aura of smugness. Leadership, eh? THAT's what these people need? Someone of noble mind and heritage to lead them into the future? Well! Lucky for them! She stands up with a flourish.
"Greetings! I am.."
Then she watches as Grindar and Lil start to take control of the situation, maneuvering the rabble towards recognizing the methods of Smithera. Smithera, who was from here and already had the trust of the adventurers, and was probably a great choice.
" .. sitting down comfortably, thank you! I have no need of anything at this time!", she announces awkwardly before sitting back down next to Sol. She picks up an unfortunate unseen servant, and starts nibbling on it nervously.
Grinder, Say That Again Please [DM Jerry] Thursday May 7th, 2020 10:59:53 PM
Jarl looks to have totally ignored everything Grinder said and keeps staring down Granvil stepping in front of Smithera to prevent her. In a low dangerous voice he says, "Apologize to Smithera."
Granvil is grabbed by others and held on either side. He tries to break free, but they take him to the ground. "Let go of me!!!! What right do you have to...."
Smithera, one hand on her eye, says, “Did no one hear what Grinder said?”
Jarl says, “Granvil, you were rude taking the stick and you hit Smithera in the eye. YOU HIT HER IN THE EYE!”
When Thorondir says ,”We can’t get out of her soon enough for my liking,” Jarl reacts , “I don’t know why you are traveling with our….. Group…… questers….. Heroes…… adventurers……, but if….. what DO we call you? You’re not ours…….And I forget what I was going to say….and…”
Smithera, squinting with one eye says, “Grinder, say that again please.”
BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 Thursday May 7th, 2020 11:23:48 PM
Bigby moves over to Thorondir and affirms that he is part of the group. Thorondir is a part of our pack. He knows and respect the land and it's creatures. In a place like the Sargrass we need to learn to be more like Thorondir and we need to work together or we die here. Take it from me who almost died in the mouth of a giant frog..Bigby thinks off to that moment. Ribbit...ribbit. Darkness surrounding. Where are you Wolfgang. Come back Bigby...ahem where was I? If you got a problem with him, then you got a problem with me.[/b] Bigby felt very angry for a moment and then tries to calm down. He almost felt ferral for a moment. Wonder if this is what Wolfgang feels at times. He rubs Wolfgangs fur to calm. Bigby decides to let the good speakers to make up for his clumsiness in speech. He looks over to Thorondir to let him know that he's got his support.
Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour Friday May 8th, 2020 3:25:03 AM
Sol, stunned and sitting somewhat slack jawed because of the ruckus moves up behind Grindar, as if to show solidarity. He attempts to look tough, but doesn't have the physicality of it. He hopes that the "adventurers" showing a united front would help lend weight to Grindar's words.
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 May 8th, 2020 5:25:03 AM
Relieved that things have, at least for the moment, calmed down, and he isn't going to have to punch anyone's lights out, Grindar answers Smithera, "I said that one boat isn't the answer to all our cares and woes, and one band of adventures isn't either, we all must do our part, play our role as it were. Smithera has taken up the role as de facto leader due to the fact that no one else would, and she deserves our respect, as she has done in admirable job, that said, I propose we set up a formal leadership chain, a government, if you will. Let us form a council of trustworthy individuals, with one person leading them. the council members should be elected by the people, as well as the council leader.
He then turns to his friends and quietly says, "You know we really need a name for our pack, Something with some real shade to it, something easy to remember".
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 May 8th, 2020 5:26:26 AM
fixed header
Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 27/27 -- Aewen: AC 11 -- HP 13/13 Friday May 8th, 2020 4:20:09 PM Speak with Animals Thorondir reaches out a hand and strokes Wolfgang's neck as he talks to it in wolf. "You have chosen a good companion, and you hunt well."
Jarl has been speaking for a while, and once he mentions he forgot what he was going to say, Thorondir says to him "I am Thorondir, I am not yours or anyones. I speak for those without a voice, at least that most can understand. I am sent to watch over the trees and animals, so that none take advantage or think they may own what is not something that isn't theirs to own. I am no hero, but I will help where I can."
He goes back to stroking Wolfgangs neck and nods to Bigby.
Akuno Neko (Ken) AC 15 / CMD 17 - 20/20 Hp Friday May 8th, 2020 5:51:40 PM
Akuno looks at Smithera a bit confused, then starts racking her own brain. What did Grindar say that was so important? She recalls his words, brightening up. She snaps her fingers in excitement as she catches on.
----------------
"Yea! And he said if you want to fight someone, fight him!" With a whoop of excitement, she balls a tiny fist and punches Grindar on the arm, followed by swinging an unseen servant at his chest, gripped like a pillow, where it impacts with a gentle piff.
When the rumpus ends, she stands victorious over the room full of people, who now exalt her as supreme leader.
----------------------
With a sigh, Akuno lets her daydream end. She looks at the unseen servant she's been squeezing and whispers to it. "If only."
She still didn't really feel connected enough to start offering suggestions for a name. She didn't even know if they would drag her along on their next business. She was sort of thrust upon them, now that she thought about it. She didn't even know what these adventurers were all about. She pieced together they had been helping this place, and they seemed like a good lot. Maybe they'd help her too?
She'd have to talk to 'Lil or Caelwyn when this meeting was over.
Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 44/44; CMD: 15 d20+11=18 ; Friday May 8th, 2020 9:24:29 PM
Caelwyn smiles to himself. He is undoubtedly skilled in diplomacy, but Grindar's intimidating persona was exactly what they had needed a moment ago. He steps up and adds his voice to Grindar's, encouraging calm.
"Grindar is right, my friends. We cannot afford strife among ourselves, if our colony is to survive. We must come up with a logical process for organizing ourselves going forward. We can do this, but only if we stick together!"
Diplomacy 18
Land of Confusion by Genesis [DM Jerry] Friday May 8th, 2020 10:33:12 PM
Smithera says, "I like the idea of a council. But how many? For how long? I really don't want to be "in charge because no one else wants to."
One woman says, "Council of 7. For one year. Each year one new member is added. One leaves the council."
Another woman says, "Too many, too long."
Jarl says, "How many of us are there?"
"What do we do if someone else hurts someone in our community?"
Freakshow says, "How much of a council is too much?"
Nicephorus motions at Akuno and says, "BigbyWolf, is she part of your pack now too?"
Conversation continues. Groups form, reform, some withdraw watching.
Eventually, Smithera calls everyone together and says, "I don't really remember why this all started, though I still feel "how" it got started. Continue talking. Tomorrow night, we'll have a "grand circle" and vote.
"I think first order of business is how large of a council." "Second is how long will they serve." "Third seems to be...well I'm not sure....so we'll just go that far. I guess I"m still defacto leader by default until we vote on those two things. Oh yeah. Third will be to vote...somehow."
She smiles in a self-deprecating way. "Told ya I wasn't a natural leader a year ago."
After a moment, she continues"I'm glad our friends are home. I"m glad we're getting a boat. I'm not glad my eye hurts. I think it's affecting my brain."
Granvil mumbles, "Sorry."
BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 Friday May 8th, 2020 11:26:17 PM
Bigby looks over to Akuno and considers for a moment what she said about him wearing a leash. Bigby pauses for a second and then snaps too. "Of Course she is. She may be different, but she is of our pack." He looks over at Akuno affirmatively.
Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour Saturday May 9th, 2020 4:21:59 AM
Sol watches and listens, and starts to think about possible options.
Once they're to one side he mentions it to Smithera
"I have an idea, if you'd like to mention it tomorrow, if you feel it's good enough? A council of 7, with each serving a one year term. However, for three seats, the term is one year. For two more seats the first term is 6 months, and for the final two seats the term is 18 months. This will allow people to serve for a longer period and staggers the resetting of the council, but isn't too long over all. I would suggest choosing the council, then having the Council themselves randomly determine which seats are short and which are long."
((Knowledge (Nobility) To try and make this sound good/work as a plan - [roll]1d20+12[/roll]))
Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour d20+12=21 ; Saturday May 9th, 2020 4:22:35 AM
((OoC - Sorry rolled as if I was on a forum out of habit! Knowledge (Nobility) is 21))
'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 18/12/16 - CMD 17 Saturday May 9th, 2020 10:45:53 AM
'Lil starts havin' flashbacks to Hook City and it's oppressive bureaucracy. She didn't much care for politics and whatnot, but knew that this was real important to figure out. She listens to Sol's idea. Surely someone, SOMEONE, had some experience with government.
"This is a conundrum what's been solved before, everyone. Let's not go reinventing the wheel. Aukno, you're royalty, yea? You got any experience with this?" She pauses. "Either way, I think it's best if we don't overthink it."
Akuno Neko (Ken) AC 15 / CMD 17 - 20/20 Hp Saturday May 9th, 2020 11:53:58 AM
Akuno, having just sat down, stays seated. Legs crossed, proper and ladylike, she patiently kicks one foot and and over. When Bigby mentions her as one of them, a tiny shiver goes through her. Her little foot starts kicking even faster, and petticoats and ruffles start swishing.
"Hmph. Considering you tried to kiss me last night, Bigby Wolf, I should be running for the hills!" It might take Bigby a moment to catch it, but she used his name here. Not mutt or dogboy or any other dismissive nickname. She grinds her knuckles into her temples, trying to squeeze a decision out of her brain. "Fine, I'll be a part of the pack. Someone with upbringing has got to help this wild bunch when they find a proper city. It wouldn't be fair to make them rely on Caelwyn all the time." She looks down at her kicking feet, and tries to hide her blush with her parasol. "And besides, you guys seem nice and really strong and there's a lot of places in the Sargrass I still have to go and I don't think I could do it alone and.. and.. She lets the thought trail off. "So thanks for the affirmation, Bigb..Bigb...dog breath."
------
When 'Lil asks her a direct question, she snaps out of her momentary weakness. She laughs nervously. "Of course I am! Heh.. heh.." She grins big, with one fang poking out. "Now! They've already done the hard part. They have a leader. Now that leaders job is to make sure that even if she doesn't relate to everyone, she has a goals that everyone can relate to!"
She thinks a bit about council sizes. "I'm not a big fan of too large of a council. The point of being a queen or king is that you know how to lead better than everyone else, so why dilute your power with people who know less than you? Advisors are one thing, but another group who can block you is another."
She holds up three fingers. "Community, Defense, and Spirituality." She ticks off each finger as she talks. "Those are the things a kingdom needs in order to survive. I'd elect a council person to each of those concepts, and let them decide how many assistants they need within reason. Then I'd work with them to establish guidelines and rules that apply to their domain.
She frowns. "And if you are worried about democracy over monarchy, then allow each of them a one third vote. If all of them, people you trust, vote to stop an idea, then as leader, you should figure out why they think its a poor choice."
Akuno continues. "As the kingdom grows, it needs other things too, like councilpersons for war, espionage, finance, relations, culture, magical knowledge, and internal stability. For for right now, just the big three are all you need." Finally, she adds. "I'd also advise they hold that position until you lose confidence in them." She looks at Sol with an apologetic smile, then to Lil and Smithera. "Well, you've certainly got choices! I don't have as much faith in a fair council as Sol does I think. If you ask me, it takes consolidation of power to get anything done."
Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 27/27 -- Aewen: AC 11 -- HP 13/13 Saturday May 9th, 2020 7:41:01 PM
Thorondir sits and contemplates. Finally he says "I don't know this town or what would work here. I would be willing to speak with any domestic animals you have, see if perhaps they have suggestions to make their life better. My experience is people who treat the animals right will treat each other right. You find someone mistreating them, and sure enough they will turn on their neighbor as well."
Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 44/44; CMD: 15 Sunday May 10th, 2020 11:59:12 PM
Caelwyn glares at Granvil. "The only way this will work is if we respect each other and rely on words cooperation - at all costs, we must keep our tempers in check."
He turns to Smithra. "Let me have a look at that, maybe I can help." If necessary, he will Lay on Hands to heal her.
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 May 11th, 2020 5:59:21 AM
Grindar keeps quiet for the moment. He has said his piece, and is glad that it seemed to have put the wheels into motion. He knows he is no diplomat, and certainly no politician, and is well aware that what comes next will require some of both. So he smiles and walks over to Thorondir and says, "I agree that people who treat animals well, tend to be a good sort, though you will find few domestic animals here. Most were killed along with a large portion of the people who had brought them, shortly after they and my friends arrived in the Sargrass. I wasn't with them on the ship that brought them, but quickly ran into the same resistance, a tribe of savage halflings who preferred to dine on the flesh of the sentient. After defeating their chief, the Manfri arrived, and guided us here, the original location of Rattledam. When we arrived, their was nothing, but with the help of some locals, most notably, Freakshow, the harvester elf, Needle the climber, and Ahyoka, the Manfri, we, or I suppose I should say they, since most of what you see now was built while we were away, have accomplished much.
Small Town by John Cougar Mellencamp [DM Jerry] Monday May 11th, 2020 11:09:23 PM
Smithera's eye is swelling shut and hurts her. The Lay on hands takes care of it. "Caelwyn, thanks. That feels ever so much better." She gives you one of her huge smiles with dimples and a hug.
Jarl smiles and shakes his head. "We're barely a town. And I don't want to live in a Kingdom."
Freakshow says, "Seven is too many. Different lengths of terms sounds too complicated for a town. How about 3. And one gets replaced each year?"
Meanwhile, Nicephorus hesitates at BigbyWolf's answer about their pack and then bows graciously and withdraws.
As this discussion seems likely to continue for some time, Ahyoka the Manfri and Needle the Climber talks for a second and then Needle heads to Smithera and Ahyoka heads to Grinder.
Ahyoka says, "Can I talk to a couple of you. Needle and I have an idea concerning something completely different."
He walks away from the townsfolk to the edge of town and waits for needle to arrive with Smithera.
Ahyoka nods at Needle and they sit. Needle pulls out a greyish piece of grass about an inch around and about a foot long. In his stilted high pitched voice he says, "I think you've heard of it, but have you ever seen any of this?" He lays it on the ground.
Akuno Neko (Ken) AC 15 / CMD 17 - 20/20 Hp Tuesday May 12th, 2020 12:12:50 AM
Akuno watches Needle, Ahyoka, and Smithera sit around and talk to each other. Slowly, unseen servant under her arm, she tiptoes away from all the people she doesn't know. She directs her floating disk near her again, and begins arranging pillows on the disc.
If she was going to be sitting around watching other people talk for awhile, she was going to be comfortable.
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 May 12th, 2020 6:05:42 AM
Grindar looks at the blade of grass Needle reveals, and shakes his head, "I thought I saw every type of grass one can see in this place, but I'm not sure if I've seem that particular variety".
'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 18/12/16 - CMD 17 Tuesday May 12th, 2020 8:25:09 AM
'Lil thinks Freakshow's right on. Maybe someday they'll need more folks at the top, right now one head dude and three councildudes would suffice.
Dude being a gender neutral term, as evidenced by Akuno being one'a her dudes.
She ain't got no clue what that grass is, and says so. "Yea, I ain't sure what I'm lookin' at here, dude. It important?"
Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 27/27 -- Aewen: AC 11 -- HP 13/13 Tuesday May 12th, 2020 1:01:09 PM
Thorondir looks numb as Grindar explains the history and killing of the animals and many of the people. "They killed them all? Why not keep the breeding stock, killing all makes no sense." He looks around the room at the few who are left. "So you killed these savage haflings? I could help avenge if still needed."
Thorondir wanders over and looks at the piece of grass that Needle holds up. He thinks back on what he has learned, can any of it help here he wonders.
[OOC] I don't know if druid nature sense can help him with this?
BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 Tuesday May 12th, 2020 4:32:00 PM
Bigby listened to Grindar retell their tales of woes. He had forgotten about the cannibals and the horses. Those were dark times for a crew with bright ideas and hopes. Hopefully, things have started to show some more positive vibes for this crew. He just observes and listens in.
Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour Tuesday May 12th, 2020 5:36:45 PM
Sol keeps his mouth shut, as his idea was met with a less than stellar response. He does look more with renewed interest.
Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 44/44; CMD: 15 Tuesday May 12th, 2020 11:42:13 PM
Caelwyn is happy to assist the injured. He helps anyone else who might be hurt, and then turns his attention to the conversation between Ahoyka and the others.
Skin of a Rapke [DM Jerry] Wednesday May 13th, 2020 12:39:54 AM
The discussions about leadership continues.
Needle sits, waits for the rest to do the same. He smiles at Thorondir motions him to sit beside him. When settled he says, "This is Steelgrass." It has not been shaped or hardened yet. There's a large patch about 7 miles west of here. I spotted it myself.
Ahyoka sheepishly smiles and lays a cured and oiled Rapke hide on the ground. "I found this in one of our bulbgrass sanctuaries. It is very old." He lays out a skin of a rapke and unrolls it. I has been oiled and preserved. It is a map of a town, but someone has added lines all over it. The entry at the bottom though is unmistakable. "Rattledam Dome."
Ahyoka pauses, waiting on their response. "I'd intended to show this to the whole town tonight. I changed my mind. I am an outsider, and don't understand your ways. I leave it to you to use this as you will and well decide who to share... No instructions, just this map. I think it shows where they put the Steelgrass. It does not show what grasses they weaved between these beams. I'd heard that Rattledam and one other village had a dome in the previous age."
Smithera says, "Rattledam had a dome? This is a map of what the town used to look like? Her mouth hangs open. She keeps touching her eye. "No it doesn't hurt anymore, but it feels like it should?" She turns. Several other townsfolk are looking your way. "The jig is up. Headed back."
As the walks back to the townsfolk, Smithera says, "I'm going to retire for the evening. Before I go, please let me say one final thing. We need this council. She turns to the adventurers, seeming to focus on 'Lil, but also gives Akuna an appraising glance.
"A couple of weeks ago, as I'm sure you noticed, we grew--as you can see. A second group came from Hook City through DreMoria. There are now 54 of us. They seemed to make it better than we did when we came. A group of 8 sailors and their captain, headed back.
"I said to send no more for at least a year and even then, we might not have room for them. Sent it in writing. If they sent more immediately, we should have several months before they could even think of arriving. Perhaps, if we're lucky, a few years.
Turning back to the townsfolk, she says, "So we need a simple council. Small, because we're....small. Easy. It needs to pull us together, not divide us as our discussion tonight seemed to do at times." She rubs her eye.
"Sleep well." She departs for her tent.
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 May 13th, 2020 6:14:13 AM
Grindar remembers his time in the halfing's holding cage, shudders a bit at the thought, then assures Thorondir that the halflings were dealt with, and shares the druid's confusion as to why they killed all the animals.
Looking at the map, Grindar wonders out loud, "Is their a need for the dome still, and if so what do we need to do?" Always the warrior, he marvels at the steelgrass for a bit, and then asks Ahyoka, "Is that the same stuff your people are famous for using to make weapons and armor?"
Grindar vows he will do what he can to help make the council a reality, and wishes Smithera good night. he turns to his friends and says, "I suppose we should follow or defacto leader's example and hit the sack ourselves", He than heads towards their tent and curls up in his bed roll, with Llew by his side.
'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 18/12/16 - CMD 17 d20+10=27 ; Wednesday May 13th, 2020 10:23:38 AM
'Lil wonders why Smithera seemed to focus on'er when she talked. Did Smithera think 'Lil didn't agree with her?
Sense motive 27 - Why'd Smithera focus on her?
"I'm gonna say we want that dome for two reasons, dude. A: this place is real inhospitable. B: It's part'a Rattledam. It'd be like rebuilding Hook City after some disaster, but not rebuildin' the bridge. That dome's parta the history of this place."
'Lil is super interested in that grass, though. She really wants some armor from the stuff. This chain she wore was not suited to this place, ya know? She decides to pay close attention over the next few days, to see what's necessary to harvest the stuff. She hopes Needle and Freakshow will be willing to help her out.
Akuno Neko (Ken) AC 15 / CMD 17 - 20/20 Hp Wednesday May 13th, 2020 12:19:51 PM
Akuno notices Smithera just a smidge too late. She's currently engaged in some powerful laziness, kicked back in her floating pillow-disc, looking at a picture book of maidens in dresses and dashing men in suits. Under Smitheras appraisal, Akuno jumps with a guilty panic, and nearly upends her floating disc.
"Sweet dreams! Don't worry! We will do the heroic, uh, thing to satisfactory completion!"! Akuno cringes at her own delivery. What a day.
She pats her servant on the head affectionately. "She's in a nice mood.", thinks the servant. It cuddles up to Akuno, who quickly ties a rope around its waist and points to 'Lil. With an audible sigh, the servant drags her the ten feet across the room.
"That Smitheras pretty wise. Sometimes the best choice is to just polish your coal. After awhile, someone else will see it as a diamond. That's typically when you get annexed by a larger country, or a small country asks to get annexed by you, I guess. Either way, there comes a point when a little village has to grow up. It can either be planned and groomed, or happen naturally. Seems like Smithera and her folks wants the latter."
Akuno sits in quiet reflection for a moment, then shoves her picture book in 'Lils hands. "Hey hey! For something not boring, 'Lil, I think this one would look good on you!". She flips to a page with what basically appears to be a court dress with tiny armored plates sewn into the shoulders, the hips, and the arms. "The design here is for Lady Knights, whose sense of duty often prevents them from appearing in full court dress. The plates are non-painted metal, and that grey looks very stylish with primary reds, yellows, greens and blues! The plates protect anywhere a normal strike would aim, but their utility just adds to the nobility of the wearer while keeping with the spirit of a formal event!" Akuno is basically gushing. She flips to another page of a suit with similar plates, but they are sewn in behind the fabric and not visible. It has wide billowing sleeves at the shoulder, as well as several open areas in the back and sides of the legs. "I think this one would look great on Bigby! He doesn't wear the heavy armor that the slits were made for, but he's got fur and I figure he would get hot in normal attire..."
She prattles on for awhile longer, showing suits for the rest of the men in the party until eventually, at some point, she winds up snoring face down in her book, snuggled onto her disc and squeezing an unseen servant like a bear.
BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 Wednesday May 13th, 2020 1:02:34 PM
Bigby hears the words Rattledam Dome, and drifts off to a strange thought of gladiator fighting. two men enter, one man leaves. Bigby snaps to and laughs, that sounds like a plot to a bad story.
Bigby sees what Akuno suggests with armor and smiles. "thanks. Hey did you draw these?" asks Bigby to Akuno
Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 27/27 -- Aewen: AC 11 -- HP 13/13 Wednesday May 13th, 2020 4:48:12 PM
Thorondir is pleased he has been invited to sit and discuss the plant Needle has. "Steelgrass, I have heard of it but haven't seen it in its natural state. That would be very useful, we should go and collect some I think."
He agrees with Smithera "A large influx of peoples will ruin any place not ready for such. I agree you should limit growth, perhaps restrict migrants to fill needed skills." He ponders a moment though and adds "Perhaps I gave bad council. Migrants will strengthen your community, it is a difficult balance that I am not able to give good council on."
Questions [DM Jerry] Wednesday May 13th, 2020 10:25:48 PM
Grinder honestly questions the need for a dome and asks about Steelgrass armor and weapons. He comments further on the importance of a council.
Ahyoka says, "Yes."
Lil wonders why Smithera focuses on her. She thinks about it for a time. Two possibilities occur. She wants a friend. She thinks 'Lil is a leader and wants to see her reactions and hear her thoughts."
Ahyoka adds, "My people have kept an eye on your people while you were gone. Nothing serious has happened so far. My people have the secret to Steelgrass. They will help make the steel, but not reveal the secret of tempering it for different uses.
"A Steelgrass dome helps, but is not enough. Who protects the town when you are gone? Right now they depend on you."
Needle says, "My people have the skill to climb and set it in place. We climb. What will you do when mutated animals come calling while you are on your boat? Who will protect your people?"
Akura shows her fashion picture book to 'Lil and Bigby looks on.
Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 44/44; CMD: 15 Wednesday May 13th, 2020 11:28:02 PM
Caelwyn thinks about Needles' comment. "It won't do to have a single party of adventurers permanently protecting the city...we won't be enough, if something major comes up. We will need to train more of us to protect ourselves, in order to be ready. That way others could come and go on the boat as needed for supply pickups, migrant shipments, etc."
Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour Thursday May 14th, 2020 2:57:06 AM
Sol nods at Caelwyn's words.
"Yes, we need to create some sort of militia, a group of trained men and women who can come to arms should they be needed, however I have no skill in training warriors."
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 May 14th, 2020 6:30:32 AM
Grindar scratches his head for a moment, deep in thought, "The need for a dome makes a lot of sense when you explain it like that, but so does a well armed and trained militia. Caelwyn, you, I, and maybe Lil are probably the best ones of us to teach weapon training, but it would be good to take stock of Rattledam's current population, and see if there are any that may have some skills, and make more consistent teachers than us, since it seems as though we will be away a fair amount. I would say that the raising of a militia should be one of the first things our council does once it's formed.
'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 18/12/16 - CMD 17 Thursday May 14th, 2020 9:22:10 AM
'Lil looks over Akuno's papers with something like interest. In the back of'er mind, the fact that she keeps referrin' to herself and Cae as knights bugs her. Both'a them served Domi, and both'a them had signed a geas to some old rich dude, but they weren't part'a no court.
"It's a real pretty dress, but out there in the grass it's gonna get snagged on everything." She flips through the magazine, looking for something feminine with pants. She'll share it if such a get-up exists in the thing. "This is more useful out here. Flowy stuff tends to get caught. This chain mail ain't much better, though, and it gets heavy and hot out there in the grasses. I'm lookin' to change it real fast."
She hands the magazine. "Anyway, I ain't a knight, lady or otherwise. Don't got much gumption to go settling myself into a court somewhere. Kinda why I came out here in the first place." She opens her arms wide. "Back in Hook City, there was rules for everything. Not out here, not yet at least."
At the subject of training a militia, 'Lil don't get too excited at hearing her name as responsible for training them up. She sighs; Grindar was right, though. 'Lil was qualified to teach basic weapon use and had the patience for it. No, that's not right. She didn't have the patience for it, she had the self control to keep her frustrations in check. That ain't the same thing.
"I can put out the word for morning worship services. Folks who show up to praise the god of bravery would be a good pool to recruit from, ya know?" Plus, she adds silently, it's kinda her job. Her least favorite part of her job, but part of it nonetheless.
BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 Thursday May 14th, 2020 9:42:07 AM
Bigby thinks about a militia. Hmmm, yes those three would be good at helping with that. There was a time when Bigby would have volunteered to help. He was good at charging with a spear. That's right I used to use a spear. It seems since coming to the Sargrass, Bigby's relied more and more on his natural abilities. Wonder if Wolfgang had any influence on that. Am I becoming more like him? Or him more like me? Who knows. Perhaps we are becoming one. Hopefully this militia thing works."Good idea Grindar. The pack needs to learn to defend itself. But not all fighting is done with weapons that seam obvious. I know not many have claws like me, but it's good to improvise with what abilities each has. Let me know what you need from me. Till then I"m going hunting. Hey, you village people, if anyone wants to learn to hunt, come with me. I'll show you how to be responsible with the hunt. Thorondir knows too." Bigby heads off talking to whoever may or may not go along. He talks regrdless if anyone follows. "First rule of hunt club. You don't take more than you need."
Akuno Neko (Ken) AC 15 / CMD 17 - 20/20 Hp Thursday May 14th, 2020 10:17:33 AM
When conversation turns to things like defenses and militias, Akuno rolls over with a grumble. Unfortunately for her, her discs and servants don't last all that long yet. Her spell hits the four hour mark, and dumps her unceremoniously onto the floor.
She murmurs and rubs her sides. she thinks a bit about Lil's statement on fashion. "I wouldn't be caught dead without a right and proper amount of lace and ribbon.", she grumbles. Odd, that that is her first thought on waking. Then again, is it so strange? Every power this young sorceress had manifested so far all fed into her fetish for fairy tales and luxury.
-----
"It wouldn't do for you all to responsible for all the training. Besides, there's a difference between being capable and being able to teach it. Maybe we should seek out to hire a master at arms to come and whip the people here into shape? If we are going to be gallivanting about the Sargrass, we can't keep putting the peoples training on hold." She remembers Granvils uncouth manners. "A teacher wouldn't be a bad idea either. Don't want all the kids and kittens out here growing up like Mr. Eye Puncher."
Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 27/27 -- Aewen: AC 11 -- HP 13/13 Thursday May 14th, 2020 10:18:34 AM
This steelgrass sounds interesting, but isn't an immediate concern it seems. Something else is though, and Bigby knows what it is.
"Well, the steelgrass is something we should look into, but for now it appears it is time to hunt."
Thorondir follows Bigby. "Okay, I will hunt with Aewen in the sky. When you kick up small game we will stoop down and catch it. If I spot larger prey for you, I will let out a loud shriek and circle tightly over the game. If I spot something that may be a danger to you I will let out three large shrieks and circle over it."
Thorondir then wildshapes into an eagle and joins Aewen up in the sky. They renew their connection and then start to hunt.
Echoes by Pink Floyd [DM Jerry] Thursday May 14th, 2020 11:23:11 PM
Ahyoka shrugs. He listens carefully to each response to his offer of steelgrass on behalf of the Manfri people. He turns away, rolls up the old map of the ancient Rattledam, and walks away into the grass. "I wish you luck and survival."
With a look of shock and dismay, Needle stands frozen, his head pivoting between the departing figure of the Manfri and the adventurers.
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 May 15th, 2020 8:14:07 AM
Seeing Ahyoka leaving, Grindar quickly stands and attempts to follow her. He pleads with her, "Stop Please Miss Ahyoka! your presence, council and assistance is of great value to us! I apologize if we got off topic, but the truth is a militia will be needed, however, so will the dome, and that is something we can never achieve without the aid of you and your people. I believe I can speak for my friends when I say, we are willing to do whatever it takes to secure Rattledam, and protect it's people, whether it be to train a militia, harvest and haul steelgrass, or both, but without the help of the Manfri, and for that matter, the Climbers, this project is doomed before it even begins! Please stay Miss Ahyoka, and tell us what you need from us. You have stated that your people would be willing to help with the dome structure, but are unwilling to temper the grass for other purposes, and that's fine. I won't lie a breastplate, or some other such thing, made from steelgrass would be a amazing gift, but a gift is only a gift if it comes from the heart of the giver, and anything else would either be a monetary transaction, or theft, neither of which are appealing to me".
BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 Friday May 15th, 2020 10:53:10 AM
Seeing Ahyoka leave, Bigby wonders if he'd done it again. If he had checked out too soon in the conversaition. and he so wanted to hunt. Things just make more sense that way. Before leaving, Bigby suggests to Thorondir that they wait, and that we need to see why Ahyoka is leaving and then they could hunt. "our pack needs us first. Ahyoka, I apologize, I'm not normally one for these talks. And I lose intererst quickly with these things. I do trust my friends here and I think they just want to protect the people here and this is what they know. You know these lands better than we do. You know its ways. What can we do? We need your help and will do what we can to be one with the land. I will try my best to do my part." That's how it sounded in Bigby's head as he attempted to 'diplomacize,' but words didn't always come out of Bigbys mouth the way he thought it in his head.
Akuno Neko (Ken) AC 15 / CMD 17 - 20/20 Hp Friday May 15th, 2020 1:19:02 PM
Akuno watches the little "man-free" leave, in what she recognizes to be a fit. She knows, because she has fits all the time. She tries to think about what upset him.
Ahyoka made a statement. Needles asked a question.
Needles asked, "Who will protect the people while we are gone?", and people offered ways to teach the people to protect themselves.
Ahyoka offered an ancient map from a storage bulb and mentioned that his people would be willing to forge collected grasses, but not reveal the secrets. Companions mentioned collecting the grasses, and how much they needed the Manfri, but no one ever said thank you... Akuno frowns. There wasn't much time, and it may already be too late. She dashes from her spot of luxury, leaving her picture book flying in the air. She skids to a stop where she saw Ahyoka walk into the grass, and looks at the ground. She was a princess, dangit, and this was beneath her. Why shouldn't the dog be groveling instead of her?
Then she thinks back to any one of her books about good and noble rulers. Any of them would do anything for their people, station aside. If she sought to be like the great rules of the past, she would need to remember that there was more to it than dresses and parties. She drops to her knees, putting her forehead on the dirt and her palms face down in front of her. "Ahyoka sama!", she shouts. "Thank you! Thank you for going through the trouble to produce your map! Thank you for offering it to us! Thank you for offering to sew the grasses! Thank you for helping the commoners of this camp! Thank you for not pointing out our rudeness and trying to allow us to save face! Please continue to help the people here, in your own judgement of what is best!"
She wouldn't ask for forgiveness here, because that would be like a child saying sorry to his parents only after he lost his dessert. Everyone knew he was doing it because he wanted the sweets, not because he was contrite.
She holds the pose until either Ahyoka returns, or one hour passes, whichever comes first.
'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 18/12/16 - CMD 17 Friday May 15th, 2020 5:45:39 PM
'Lil, also, doesn't see what caused Ahyoka's reaction. They asked a question, and her and her dudes started talking it over. She watches as Akuno and Grindar speak up, but chooses not to add to their pleas.
This was an important moment, and 'Lil didn't want to set up New Rattledam down the path of being dependent on these folks for survival. Best to start on equal footing and keep it that way.
Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour Friday May 15th, 2020 9:04:19 PM
Sol just stares slack jawed... he had no idea what the party may have done to offend Ahyoka, but that was always his problem wasn't it? He struggled to understand how other people worked... oh well.
Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 27/27 -- Aewen: AC 11 -- HP 13/13 Friday May 15th, 2020 10:47:45 PM
Thorondir circles up as an eagle as he hears Bigby call for a halt in the hunt. After checking with Aewen, he apologizes to his eagle friend: "I am sorry Aewen, people are strange creatures. Something has happened that I don't understand, I need to go back. Go hunt and find a meal, I will return later."
Thorondir glides back down and his eagle shape morphs into an elf just as he lands. "I hope I didn't cause this, I don't understand people well or know the customs of this town. Tell me what I can do to fix this if you know."
What I See [DM Jerry] Friday May 15th, 2020 11:18:04 PM
Needle speaks softly. "Ahyoka offered you the greatest secret of her people. She put her honor on the line to be allowed to offer it to you. I think she expected great gratitude. But she did not let you know the significance of her offering this to you."
"I think....I think that she sees a people that do not know who they are. She thinks you will die without the help of her people.
"I see two want to hunt in the Sargrass for fun and glory instead of survival. I see one acts like a spoiled brat and takes pride in that. I see your town talking of a council and your appointed leader gets a black eye. I see that these things are not your fault. They just are. I see that you have been lucky so far and need seasoning. If you survive, that will come. If you don't, they will only remember the open spot where they grass will not grow."
"I will go after her. But I will only find her if she lets me. Even after many months here, you are strange to me. Without help I wonder if your town will survive."
Akuno Neko (Ken) AC 15 / CMD 17 - 20/20 Hp Saturday May 16th, 2020 3:44:37 AM
Akuno keeps her head down as long as she promised, then almost literally hops to her feet. She stares into the grass for awhile, and then turns back to the others.
"Well, we won't get the grass for now, I guess. Anyone have a plan b?" With a sigh, she re-summons a disc, arranges her pillows, and plops down. She adjusts her temperate control, finds her book about fancy dresses, arranges her drink, brushes out her tail and snuggles into her little ride. Only then, does her face takes a serious cast.
"Hey Needle. Don't call 'Lil a spoiled brat. It's not polite."
'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 18/12/16 - CMD 17 Sunday May 17th, 2020 11:08:19 AM
'Lil's face hardens. "Needle, you do what you want, but where I come from, grownups don't stomp away when they don't immediately get the reaction they expect. Let her take her ball and go home. That ain't the behavior of someone who came here with goodness in their heart wantin' to help folks." Her mouth opens a few more times as she starts to say something, then thinks better of it. "That's all I gotta say on the matter. We all put our lives on the line every bloody day out here without expectin' folks to thank us."
She pats Akuno behind the ears as she leaves. "Thanks, dude. Maybe work on your introspection though."
Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 27/27 -- Aewen: AC 11 -- HP 13/13 Sunday May 17th, 2020 11:48:26 PM Glory? What is this person talking about? Thorondir has an expression of surprise and anger.
"I was told the town needed help getting food. I don't think you know or understand me. But that is to be expected, as I do not know or understand you either. I will no longer offer my service for hunting, Aewen and I will hunt for our own food. I have everything I need at the moment. If you require my services in the future, you have but to ask." Thorondir bows to Needle and walks away. Glancing over at Bigby with a shrug.
BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 Monday May 18th, 2020 1:24:14 AM
Well Bigby thought, he tried. At the end of the day that's all one can say. As for hunting that was his thing that gave him meaning when things or people didn't make sense. He wouldn't apologize anymore than he had. He looks to Thorondir and shrugs as well. He looks to remainder of the party. "now what?"
DM Steve -- Rattledam -- Module 4, day 3, after sunrise Tuesday May 19th, 2020 12:18:31 AM
After an uncomfortable end to a tense meeting, there is nothing for everyone to do but sleep.
The next morning, Smithira hosts the group at breakfast. "Good morning. How are you all doing? Sorry for everything that happened last night. I heard about the parts I missed.", she greets everyone, with only a hint of exasperation. She serves cold but tasty sausages and some sort of porridge. "Can't say I'm thrilled with how it went, but you've got the gist of what we're facing." She also serves a thick tea. Opinions of it vary, but the powdered grasses sink to the bottom when you let it sit too long.
The gist of the conversation is that there are several things the town needs to be done, and she'd like you to pick one or two.
It would help if there were someone to drill a town guard. "An' going back to Hook City for sergeants is out. It's too far. We've heard Zaran City is closer, although it's on the other side of the plains an' we don't know where." On the other hand, the hunters in town are ready to defend against the odd rapke or two.
Needle and Ahyoka are keen on building a dome. Smithira isn't sure. They don't have the expertise, and the purpose of the dome is for protection from the bugs. As annoying as the bugs are, they've been kept under control. Someone would have to enlist help from the Manfri and Climbers for that project to happen.
Smithira wants Sprocket to meet Virgil, and maybe even help with construction of the ship. That means getting Sprocket to the Stone Temple. You're the only ones in town who've made that trip yet.
"Taggert was talking to me this morning about your friend Akuno. He's worried that Freakshow an' Needle think she's white hands." Taggert -- of course -- likes her. Oddly enough, he also thinks Ahyoka disagrees with the other insiders.
Most folks in town accept Smithira as leader. A few wanted Sprocket, but he backed Smithira and made it known he'd be happier with her leading. Broag would like to be leader, but no one else wants to deal with his temper. "And there's those like Granvil, who aren't about to lead but will complain about whoever does." (You're not sure how much of that statement stems from last night's altercation.) But perhaps she should organize a council.
"So you see, there's things to do."
Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour Tuesday May 19th, 2020 2:25:20 AM
Sol listens, still reeling from last nights events. He wished he knew how to fix all these issues... but he wasn't so big-headed as to believe he had all the answers... however, at the moment, he'd settle for having one.
"Well... I know a little about governing bodies... not much, but enough to perhaps help. Though my suggestion wasn't exactly taken with open arms last night. I cannot hunt, and I cannot drill, I am not sure what else I can do to help other than explain how I have seen other settlements run, and you can decide if any of my explanations are worth using."
He shrugs before going back to his breakfast in slightly dour silence.
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 May 19th, 2020 5:54:22 AM "I would be happy to help run drills, and train up a decent town guard, or militia if you like, but if you feel the need to get Sprocket to the Stone Temple then I suppose our pack will have to be the pilot. (sorry, couldn't help myself) It may be true that Akuno may be a white hand at the moment, but I believe their may be some moonshade in her, just waiting to come to the surface, time will tell I guess.
Akuno Neko (Ken) AC 15 / CMD 17 - 20/20 Hp Tuesday May 19th, 2020 3:37:24 PM
Akuno joins a grumpy looking Sol during breakfast. She still isn't quite keen on making any suggestions to these people because she's clearly an outsider. Still, she was invited into the particular group of heroes by Grindar, so that was good enough for her.
Sge sniffs the sausage and finds it acceptable. She tastes the porridge, and quickly sets about a series of prestidigitation spells until she finds a flavor she likes. The tea is greatly appreciated, a hint of civility in a boorish place.
She eats happily and with a smile. It seemed some people around here needed cheering up. She scoots in by the wizard and whispers, like she's plotting with a fellow conspirator. "Ney, Sol. I wanted to say I liked your ideas last night. They were good ones, I just think that a monarchy is the most stable way to rule. But between us, I'm not sure this place is ready for anything like what you and I had to offer, and I think we might have been a little above their heads." She leans away, looking about suspiciously. "Yessir, these sausages sure do taste great. It doesn't take a ruling body of trusted persons and a system of checks and balances to see that, right Sol?"
-----
She overhears Grindar use her name. Her head pops up, cat ears twitching. Eager to please, she excuses herself from the wizard and makes her way to Smithera and Grindar. She offers the most exemplary of curtsies towards the former.
"Hello! I'm Akuno. We haven't really met yet, but I'm here from (name of last town I was in)! I was helping there when I was told I should follow this lot for awhile. That's how I came here." Akuno spots some grasses attached to her gloves and frowns before flicking them off. Then she spots more grasses, and there's a tiny whirlwind of picking and flicking before she snaps her fingers, and her dress is quite suddenly grass free through some strange magical effect.
"I'm sorry you took an elbow in the eye. The burden of leadership can be brutal." She nods in a manner that says she understands that particular burden well. She looks up at Grindar. Being small, she looks up at most people, actually. "Anything I can help with? Just say the word, and an army of summoned servants and monsters await your beck and call." She thinks for a moment. "By army, I mean no more than six unseen servants."And then. "And by monsters, I mean anything found on a low level Summon Monster spell." She looks into the grasses around her, then frowns."For about 30 seconds each." She looks down, and smooths out one of her lace ribbons with her small, gloved hands. "Nailed it.", she thinks.
BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 Tuesday May 19th, 2020 7:07:47 PM
Bigby listens as best he can. It seemed like a lot of talking around things. He trusted Grindar, Caelwyn, and 'Lil to figure these sort of things out. looks like hunting is out since it got him in trouble last time. Bigby just waits. Bigby just nods to Grindars suggestion
Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 44/44; CMD: 15 Tuesday May 19th, 2020 11:36:39 PM
Caelwyn thinks for a moment, pondering Smithra's words. "Before I served Domi, I trained as a warrior and spent some time as a mercenary. I may be the most sensible candidate to gather and train a militia, so if you all agree I could start gathering support for that venture. I would also be happy to help prepare the council, if needed. My mother was a diplomat, so I know a bit about how to deal...tactfully with others."
DM Steve -- Rattledam -- Module 4, day 3, mid-morning Wednesday May 20th, 2020 12:05:17 AM
Sol seems most keen on helping set out the principles for governing this village of 50 or 60 adults. Smithira says his suggestion had merits, but seven seems like a lot of councillors. Akuno's suggestion of three might be a better number. Smithira needs to recognize the contributions of Ahyoka, Freakshow, and Needle. But while the community needs their knowledge, there are people who will not accept taking direction from them -- the insiders can teach and help, but should not appear to give orders.
When Grindar talks about taking Sprocket to the monks' village, Smithera asks what the group encountered on their last trip. As she recalls, the last time the party set out for the monk village, Thich estimated that the trip from Rattledam would take ten to twelve days. What should Rattledam provide to help?
Akuno calls attention to herself, reminding Smithera that she had also made suggestions the night before. As for defense, community, and spirituality being the cornerstones, Smithira's not so sure. Pantheon was the patron of the original Rattledam, but has no followers here now. The powers of the Sargrass periodically try to convert folks. Some, led by Sprocket, have taken to recognizing all three powers. That's as close as they have to a spiritual center. On the other hand, perhaps, if Grindar, 'Lil, and Caelwyn are willing -- and particularly if Caelwyn also takes a hand in training a militia -- they can talk to folks and recommend who would be best for the city to look to on matters of defense.
Smithera also would prefer to appoint councillors, but people might accept them better if they have a say in the matter.
Bigby and Thorondir silently listen to the discussion.
Sense motive DC 12 Highlight to display spoiler: {Although she hadn't been expecting it, Smithira would love to have Caelwyn on the council in charge of defense.}
Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour d20+1=11 ; Wednesday May 20th, 2020 2:42:53 AM
Sol shrugs when Akuno comes over.
"Possibly... I have found that single rulers tend to have a habit of allowing power to go to their heads. Having a group of elected officials that can remove that power helps keeps some level of balance."
When speaking to Smithera Sol nods.
"I was thinking seven in preparation for when Rattledam is bigger, but starting small would work. Begin with three, then once you hit say 500 hundred settlers, as and when that happens, you could add another two councillors. Then retain that pattern of for every two hundred settlers add to more councillors. Personally I would not go higher than perhaps seven or nine, any more than that and it may become hard to keep track of who is who and who has what responsibilities."
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 d20+2=18 ; Wednesday May 20th, 2020 6:19:15 AM
Grindar listens intently to Smithera's words, but when she says there are no followers of Pantheon, he interrupts her saying, "I'm not suggesting that we make Pantheon the official patron of new Rattledam, but there is at least one person he who follows him". He is clearly referring to himself. He then adds, "Personally, I think people should be free to worship whomever they wish, and the idea of a town patron has always rubbed me the wrong way!"
When Smithera asks about what they encountered, Grindar says, "Well, the truth is we encountered multiple things that either tried to eat us, or just kill us for the fun of it. The Plains are a dangerous place, hence the need for the boat. As to what we need for the trip, I personally can't think of anything other than perhaps rations, which Bigby, Thorondir, and myself can supplement by hunting and gathering. I can't promise Sprocket's safety, or any of our own for that matter, as the Plains seem bent on killing anyone who travels upon its soil".
Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 44/44; CMD: 15 d20=10 ; Wednesday May 20th, 2020 9:39:16 AM
Caelwyn agrees with Grindar. "We have followers of several deities here, we cannot simply pick one as patron. However, I do think encouraging the people by our example to serve the gods well cannot do anything but help strengthen our community."
It seems like training a militia might be a good place to get started, but Caelwyn waits to hear what others will say before he takes that job for himself.
He also adds his assent regarding counselors. "I would say three or five would be best for now. We do want people to feel that their voices are heard, but we cannot simply have mob rule at the moment, or the settlement will not survive. There will be too much chaos and dissension."
'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 18/12/16 - CMD 17 Wednesday May 20th, 2020 4:36:50 PM
"Yea, seems as good a time as any to enshrine freedom to worship who ya choose into the town charter. That said, I am a priest, and reckon I'll be founding a temple to Domi here just as soon as things settle a bit. We're gonna need a lot of bravery to get this place moving."
'Lil's said her piece about the number of government dudes in charge'a this place. She ain't keen on revisiting the issue any more than she has.
Akuno Neko (Ken) AC 15 / CMD 17 - 20/20 Hp Wednesday May 20th, 2020 7:00:56 PM
When Smithera mentions the Sarr, Akuno is suddenly all ears. She seems a bit dissapointed at how quickly the subject moves on. "Ya know, I'd like to learn more about the Sarr. I've always thought that Maab created the beastfolk, but then I suddenly hear about the Sarr, and some people say IT created the beastfolk. I know there's more to religion than who made me, but it seems like a place to start." She shrugs. "I mean, I assume I'll just wind up adopting the official religion of my parents kingdom if they have one, or following their lead, but in the mean time it would be nice to have someone to pray to." She gives a weak smile. "I mean, at least then you know at least one person is listening to you."
Akuno lets a brief shadow pass over her face, then smiles big and stupid. "Anyways, I don't know what's best for the people here. Do we take Sprocket to Stone Temple? Or do we start training? I think it would be best to get that ship built first."
BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 d20=14 ; Wednesday May 20th, 2020 8:58:21 PM
Bigby listens in to what Akuno says about the Sarr creating beastfolk and lifts an eyebrow (to the untrained eye it looks like his regular expression due to all the fur in his face). As for religion, "Let the people choose their faith. If someone wants to start a church maybe let them so long as it isn't required for the people to attend. Only if they want to."this was all in agreeance with what everyone else already had said."I'm getting the sense they want you to help with the defense Caelwyn. That's all I got to say about that."
Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 27/27 -- Aewen: AC 11 -- HP 13/13 Wednesday May 20th, 2020 10:17:38 PM
Thorondir listens, but says: "Like I said before, towns and how they work isn't something I know about, or am even interested in. Sure you need a society, but most ills come from putting too many folks together in one place. I'm all for getting on to building the ship, and exploring a bit. But if you need to take time to help these folks then do what you need to. If you need my help let me know, but I don't know how I can help in any of the political situations here."
When it is time for a meal, Thorondir will go outside and wildshape into an eagle and join Aewen for a hunt. He plans to hunt for his meals, and doesn't want to take anything away from the folks in town.
DM Steve -- Rattledam -- Module 4, day 3, mid-morning Thursday May 21st, 2020 12:00:43 AM
Sol, Akuno, and Smithera continue to talk governments for a while. Sol and Akuno are on opposite sides of a monachy debate, which Smithera takes in. She seems a bit amused when Sol mentions a population of 500. Grindar, Caelwyn, and 'Lil argue against any official religion in town. When Grindar begins describing the dangers the party has faced before, Smithira listens attentively, and seems to take the conversation as planning for the trip. This is backed up by both Akuno and Thorondir saying they think building the boat is a priority. Caelwyn thinks training a militia may be a priority, but isn't ready to accept the job, to Smithira's obvious disappointment. The number of councillors gets debated, with a concensus that not many are appropriate yet (or ever, according to 'Lil).
Bigby listens, not showing much interest until Akuno mentions that the Sarr created beastfolk. Smithira backs up the story, "Sprocket tells us the Warper-Sar created beastfolk. Only some of them got so badly lost in Maab's realms that they left before they entered. Sounds odd, but it's not the strangest tale about the Sar or Maab."
The conversation is a long one, but it doesn't last until lunch. Smithira has things to do. You can tag along, or follow some other pursuit. "You're all welcome back for lunch, though." An invitation that Thorondir declines.
Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour Thursday May 21st, 2020 2:35:24 AM
Sol considers everything that's been said.
"I think that Caelwyn, Lil and Grindar should help train a militia, Akuno and I can help oversee the creation of the boat, we may be able to learn something about how to make these boats in the future, if needed. Thorondir and Bigby, you could go and help hunt for some food for the whole town, perhaps learn more of the ways the settlers have survived, that way we are all helping in some way to the success of Rattledam, but all using our strengths. We could perhaps continue to do this until we are ready to leave for the Stone Temple? What do you all think?"
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 May 21st, 2020 6:00:12 AM Sol, I'm all in favor of everyone doing what they can to make Rattledam a better and safer place to live, but in order for you and Akuno to oversee the ship construction, we will have to go the the Stone Temple, since that's where it's being built, under Virgil's watchful eye, and there is no way the two of you are traveling the Sargrass alone, I simply won't have it! The thought of losing either of you two isn't something I'm willing to accept, so I propose those of us with martial training teach what we can to the militia, so they have some drills to practice while we are away, and then we head back to the Stone Temple. One thought has crossed my mind though, without Thich, or another of the singing monks, how are we going to safely traverse the Crystal Mountains?"
'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 18/12/16 - CMD 17 d20+10=27 ; Thursday May 21st, 2020 2:14:35 PM
'Lil likes Grindar's plan.
"We should figure out who around here knows which end of a spear goes in the critter. I'll go eat lunch with Smithira & pick her brains about who that could be."
Then, she does that. During lunch, she'll work with Smithira regarding who can lead recruits through training drills while her and her dudes are dealing with stuff at the Stone Temple. She'll also act as a soundin' board in case Smithira's got anything she's unsure of.
Diplomacy: 27 - Behavin' during lunch and giving good advice, should it be asked for.
Akuno Neko (Ken) AC 15 / CMD 17 - 20/20 Hp Thursday May 21st, 2020 3:21:48 PM
Akuno wisely nods at Sol's suggestion. "After all, ships require labor, and am I not the queen of menial summonses?" Akuno is smugly gloating, quite pleased with finding a use for her otherwise useless magic. Even the floating discs could haul a train of supplies. She was ready to go!
Until Grindar mentioned that would mean her and Sol leaving alone out there, and that wasn't something she wanted. Not anything against the wizard, but she was already getting comfortable to the idea of having these big strong folks around while she was in this dangerous place. The fact that Grindar was already being protective of her was... sweet.
BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 Thursday May 21st, 2020 7:43:28 PM "so militia, then boat?" For lunch Bigby attempts to keep up with Thorondir
Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 27/27 -- Aewen: AC 11 -- HP 13/13 Thursday May 21st, 2020 10:35:17 PM
Thorondir flies with Aewen, looking for game. He sees Bigby from a distance and calls out, but it isn't likely that Bigby will understand the language of eagles. They flush a prairie swallow and dive down for a quick kill. Aewen and Thorondir (in eagle form) perch on the kill, eating it by ripping off pieces of flesh and swallowing it.
Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 44/44; CMD: 15 Thursday May 21st, 2020 11:37:36 PM
Caelwyn agrees with these suggestions. He assures Smithra, before she leaves, that he is happy to take the lead on forming the militia - he just wanted everyone to be in agreement on it first. If Lil and Grindar can help him, he is ready to start anytime.
He also shares the worries about getting across the Crystal Mountains...that is a problem that will have to be dealt with at some point.
DM Steve -- Rattledam -- Module 4, day 3, midday d20=3 ; Friday May 22nd, 2020 12:36:58 AM
Plans are made for the next few hours, and for the longer term. Today, at least, that means hunting and interviewing. Later it looks like will mean heading back to the monks.
Bigby and Thorondir hunt. While they meet with success, it is not as easy here as they have usually found where they've been.
'Lil lunches with Smithira, and picks her mind about who might be capable at leading the militia. Top of that list is Broag Ironshield, who would rather replace Smithira as leader of the colony. Gruff Coalshine is a good weaponsmith, and Thori Rocksplitter is handy with a pick. These three are all dwarves. . . Everyone likes Taggert and Jarl, both humans, but their skills lie elsewhere. They'd be able to get people to pitch in, but they wouldn't be able to train them for battle. . . Kuiper or Shannon? No. They're survivors, but not fighters.
Grindar and Caelwyn worry about the potential trip. Aside from the grasslands, there are the crystal mountains to cross. This time they don't have Thich with them.
Sol and Akuno consider the conversations they've had, and the difficulties they may face.
Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour Friday May 22nd, 2020 3:57:36 AM
Sol nods does what he can to prepare for the trip for the whole party, seeing what resources he can buy and such, and ways of transporting 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 Friday May 22nd, 2020 5:41:41 AM
Grindar is happy to assist Caelwyn in teaching some drills and when Lil comes back with a short list of potential leaders for the militia, he is glad that there is more then one option. "I don't know if putting Broag in a place of authority is a good idea at this moment", the half-orc ponders, That said we need all the help we can get. My thoughts on the matter are as follows: Place one of those three in charge, as say a colonel, and place the other two under him as lieutenants, with everyone under Caelwyn's authority, who would act as the general. Since you are the man in charge Caelwyn, it would be up to you to make that decision. It may help spending some time talking with the three candidates before making those choices though".
'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 18/12/16 - CMD 17 Friday May 22nd, 2020 12:08:01 PM
'Lil listens to Smithira's ideas. None of them stand out as great options, but putting Broag in charge of the military seems to be asking for a coup.
She's also not sure Caelwyn's a great choice either. "Don't get me wrong, dude. I think you'd do a bang-up job, but we're probably gonna be outta town a lot, you know? The guard needs someone in charge that's gonna be here. Else yer gonna end up with someone else being the de-fac-to leader since Cae's gone so much. The dudes under him may come to view someone else as their real leader. Am I sayin' all that right? Makes sense in my head." She scratches said head.
"Truth is I ain't pleased with our choices. Maybe we get a message to Duke Rowan asking for another dude to lead a militia? That old guy's got a lot more resources than we do."
Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 44/44; CMD: 15 Friday May 22nd, 2020 2:43:29 PM
Caelwyn listens to Lil and Grindar, thinking hard. "I share your concerns about Broag...he is clearly an experienced warrior, but his desire to be in charge rules him out as commander. But he should have some sort of role. We want to make use of his experience, and to ignore him completely would simply make the problem worse. He and a couple others with experience should act as the lieutenants and sergeants, to train the men. But we need a leader, and I agree it should not be me if we are going to be traveling too much. I won't be able to gain their loyalty or trust."
He frowns in thought. "However, getting someone from Duke Rowan would take too long. I also think bringing in another outsider, unfamiliar to the people here, would be unwise. It has to be someone who is trusted by those here. Is there anyone else with at least some military experience, but also knows how to work out problems that arise between people...uh, but who isn't me, I guess?" He chuckles.
BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 Friday May 22nd, 2020 3:07:43 PM "perhaps Broag can be assistant to the general fighter manager. his experience can help but maybe the guy with pick axe is the guy we can trust for now. Just a thought. But then again I"m all for uncoventional weapons." Bigby looks at his claws and thinks oh yeah, if only teeth also. One day. He bares his teeth, lost in thought and bites. "oh yeah."
Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 27/27 -- Aewen: AC 11 -- HP 13/13 Friday May 22nd, 2020 10:49:56 PM
Not knowing the people in the town or their strengths, Thorondir is at a loss. "As I have said, I don't know these people, or their strengths or needs. I do know that self sufficiency is the key to survival most places. All of them need to take a role in protecting themselves. I suppose I could teach them how to use a sling, if they can find any stones. Making a sling is something simple, and the supplies are all around us. No use teaching them to fight with swords if the equipment isn't readily available. But like I say, I don't know what they have at hand or can easily get."
Bigby's suggestion of unconventional weapons gets a nod from Thorondir. "Unconventional weapons are too frequently overlooked, but if someone is skilled with a scythe for farming then that is the best weapon they can use in a fight. No use getting someone killed trying to master something difficult."
DM Steve -- Rattledam -- Module 4, day 3, afternoon Saturday May 23rd, 2020 9:56:36 AM
Consulting his notes, Sol goes searching for the few items that the group is likely to need that the hunters won't be able to find along the way. Akuno decides to tag along, able to help him carry anything he finds.
Grindar, 'Lil, and Caelwyn debate the best way to handle the militia. Teaching people drills while they're in town is one thing -- the question of whether Caelwyn should be "in charge" is another. Grindar suggests that they talk to some of the candidates. It seems that all of them are busy at the moment, but that any or all of them could be approached when evening comes around, individually or as a group. During this, they also learn that Kuiper and Shannon are two of the better hunters in the village. Jarl is a farmer. Taggert is a tinker.
As for sending a message to the Duke, from what had Smithira said about that, with luck, the new sergeant might be here in a year.
Bigby joins the conversation when he returns, as does Thorondir. Thorondir raises the questions of who is to be in the militia -- is it a group in town, or everyone? And is the entire militia to receive the same training?
Akuno Neko (Ken) AC 15 / CMD 17 - 20/20 Hp Saturday May 23rd, 2020 8:05:07 PM
Akuno walks behind Sol, humming a odd little tune. She keeps an eye out on the wizard. He seemed to still be a little down. "I've got discs for carrying things. So buy as much as you need."
'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 18/12/16 - CMD 17 Sunday May 24th, 2020 1:39:28 PM "I'm still a bit worried about Broag leading the militia, but if we pick someone what ain't good for the job, there may not be no village left to defend. Might also cool his jets about bein' in charge. The other folks Smithira mentioned really ain't ideal." She muses.
"I say we just be straight with the guy. Tell him we think he's the most qualified, but need to know he's not the kind to use the militia for his own political ambitions. I'm good judge of character; think I'll be able to tell if he's trustworthy if I can get a chance to have words with him." She looks at her dudes, anxious to get a read on what they think'a her plan.
Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 44/44; CMD: 15 Sunday May 24th, 2020 9:32:29 PM
Caelwyn thinks about Lil's words. "I agree, we need to speak with him just to get a read on what sort of person he he is...if he is honorable and trustworthy, than yes, it may be good to give him this kind of position...If."
He also thinks over questions of weapons and tactics. "Given what we have here, I think spears and slings are going to be our best options. Shields would be ideal, but we have very little wood. However, if we can get Ahoyka to come around, perhaps some steelgrass shields would be helpful."
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 May 25th, 2020 2:28:16 AM
Grindar cringes a bit as Caelwyn mentions Ahoyka., but says nothing. Those who have gotten to know him, know that he feels a little hurt that she would leave them in their time of need. He shakes off the feelings of betrayal and says, "Both spears and slings usually require both hands anyway, so shields wouldn't be very helpful anyways". I"I'm down with talking to the dwarves to see if we can find a winner, even if it is Braog!"
BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 Monday May 25th, 2020 2:50:31 PM "Welp, sometimes best to just make a choice and live with it afterwards, then to not. Talking to the candidate seems like a good idea." Bigby wasn't sure why those words came out of his mouth rather than just thinking them. Guess he was ready to move on. Civilization was not really his thing. Adventure, hunting, the thrill of the wind on his fur, the community of his pack out there together. Was this him speaking outloud or thinking again. Ah, he's been here too long. Bigby chuckles as if having a conversation with someone else. Wolfgang gets him. Bigby rubs the back of Wolfgangs ear. "so lets go talk to the guy. You guys talk, I'll just watch and support." Did he say that outloud again?
Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 27/27 -- Aewen: AC 11 -- HP 13/13 Monday May 25th, 2020 7:41:51 PM
Thorondir will go along and watch, his sling suggestion seems to have been taken up. He thinks, but doesn't really have anything else to add to planning.
After a while, he goes outside and calls Aewen down to him. The eagle sits on his shoulder as Thorondir preens her.
DM Steve -- Rattledam -- Module 4, day 3, towards dusk Monday May 25th, 2020 11:15:04 PM
The group gathers back together before dinner. Folks of Rattledam typically dine together in the evenings, and separately at breakfast and midday. The earlier meals are typically items served cold or with little preparation. The evening meal has more variety. This gives the group a chance to talk to their candidates.
Broag Ironshield is short, even for a dwarf, and well-muscled. He is distinctive, as his thick, dark hair falls in two directions -- not because he has parted it, but because there is a narrow scar diagonally across the top of his head where the hair doesn't grow. Most people in town carry knives, tools, or spears. Broag has a fine axe strapped to his back, and a sword at his waist. He sits with a few other dwarves, including Thori.
Thori Rocksplitter has not brought a weapon to dinner. He looks equally as strong as Broag, but more disheveled. His leather clothing has not been designed as armor, although it would undoubtedly provide him some protection. Rather, from the areas that are reinforced it is designed to protect his arms and legs.
Gruff Coalshine is dining at a table of humans. He carries a dagger, using it to eat. He appears even stronger than the other two, despite a slight pot-belly. He has taken time to clean up before joining in the meal. He sits at the table, not saying much. But those nearest to him generally chuckle after he speaks.
Before any of your group speaks to the dwarves, a skinny human joins you. You remember him as Taggert, either from past conversations or the previous evening's meeting. "Heard you," he gestures to Sol, "were gathering supplies today. So I guess it's true you're going to take Sprocket to see the boat being built? You're not planning on going right away, are you? You haven't had any time to rest."
As the place fills up, you see people generally sitting with their own kind. Not so much by race, but by clothing. There's a bunch of farmers in the far left. The hunters are scattered down one side, and so on. Some exceptions to this rule are that Smithira and Taggert move from table to table. And a number of people take time to approach the table where the insiders sit, although they mostly talk to Freakshow.
Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 44/44; CMD: 15 Monday May 25th, 2020 11:39:21 PM
Caelwyn heads over to the table where Broag and the dwarves around him are sitting. He sits down, hoping to see what the dwarf feels about all this.
"Broag, I hope you're keeping well. Will you speak with me? My companions and I are working to better organize the town, and we believe you could possibly play a significant role in keeping Rattledam safe."
Akuno Neko (Ken) AC 15 / CMD 17 - 20/20 Hp Tuesday May 26th, 2020 2:19:39 AM
Akuno watches Taggert and Smithera move about, and smiles a bit. They understood what it meant to part part of a community, those two. She nudges Bigby. "Smithera has some good ideas, I think. She's the right pick to lead this place. Maybe she should find a way to make Taggert a part of that too."
When it comes time to 'test' Broag, Akuno decides that she wants to be there. True, it's 'Lil and Caelwyn's expertise, but Akuno has an eye for talent.
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 May 26th, 2020 6:06:57 AM
As some of his pack approach Braog, Grindar notices something different about Gruff. He takes note to the fact that the weaponsmith has taken the time to wash up before dinning, which to the half-orc translates to self awareness, and a concern about his public image. He also notices the fact that even though he doesn't talk much, people listen when he does, and he wonders how that would translate if he was given authority, or if he was barking orders. Grindar decides to approach the dwarf, and as he walks over to the table he says, "Do you mind if I join you?" Assuming Gruff has no complaint to his joining, Grindar sits down and asks, "I hear your a weaponsmith, I was wondering, before coming to the Sargrass, where did you practice your trade, for the private market, or the military? I know it may seem like an odd question, but as one who depends on his weapons for survival, things like that hold interest to me, not because of any particular reason, mind you, I just like to know peoples backgrounds, especially those who make their livelihood crafting or using weapons, and since I've yet to meet a weaponsmith who didn't at least have a rudimentary understanding of the usage of their wares, I assume you have done both".
BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 Tuesday May 26th, 2020 1:42:27 PM
Bigby watches Grindar do his thing. Nice nice. He strokes his wolf goat tee. Bigby speaks to Thorondir, "this may not be our thing, but its important for two reasons, one like it or not this is our community. I think you'll find some will grow on you. They've certainly grown on me. But secondly its important to our team so that makes it important to me. But take your time. I'm sure you have good reason to be wary of humans and should trust that instict."
Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour Tuesday May 26th, 2020 5:01:22 PM
Sol nods to Taggert when he speaks.
"Yes, I intend to leave, relatively soon. As soon as we can get some other tasks sorted we will probably head out. Rest is not a luxury we have I am afraid. If Rattledam is to survive, we cannot wait and must get started on everything to help secure it as soon as possible."
'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 18/12/16 - CMD 17 d20+10=29 ; Tuesday May 26th, 2020 5:28:31 PM
Cae and Grindar is already talkin', so 'Lil listens. She figures that's more important here anyway.
Sense motive: 29 - 'Lil's tryin'a get a read on Borag.
Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 44/44; CMD: 15 d20+11=16 ; Tuesday May 26th, 2020 8:52:56 PM
Caelwyn is hoping that Broag is willing to speak with him, so he does his best to sound professional.
Diplomacy 16
DM Steve -- Rattledam -- Module 4, day 3, evening Wednesday May 27th, 2020 12:42:53 AM
Caelwyn and 'Lil approach Broag. Akuno watches the room. Grindar talks to Gruff while Bigby watches. Sol talks with Taggert as he returns from his forays to talk with others. Thorondir mostly wishes there weren't so many people around.
'Lil -- Highlight to display spoiler: {Broag seems to have resented something Caelwyn said, but decided not to respond. His friends are watching him, too. Broag's waiting for Caelwyn to say what's on his mind.}
Broag takes Caelwyn in, considers a moment, and allows as how he'll listen to what Caelwyn has to say. "Aye, I'm keeping well enough. What's on your mind?" One of the other dwarves starts to say something, but stops when Broag tells him to use Common in company that doesn't speak Dwarven. "Sorry, he and I've known each other a long time. Same clan. Split up when I joined the army, got back together for this venture."
. Taggert explains to Sol in snatches, "We've learned a bit from Freakshow, Ahyoka, and Needle while you've been gone. How to make some things that might be useful to you on your way. But what we can gather that might be a help to you will depend on how long you expect to stay. The question is, will it be supplies on hand, or should we be trying to make something?"
. Gruff gives Grindar an appraising eye, but is quick to say he's welcome. "That's a fine axe you've got. Good workmanship. Never made a double-axe myself, though axes are what I'm known for." As Grindar presses, he realizes Gruff is not much of a talker. But when he talks, he's confident in what he says. Gruff agrees that yes, he has some skill with both hammer and axe. He's been in fights, too -- and explains that just about everyone in the town's first wave fought someone or something during the bloodgrass invasion, if no other time. That's not the only time Gruff's fought, but he's never been in the military. "So what's up? You don't need an axe."
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 May 27th, 2020 6:20:42 AM
Grindar looks at Gruff while trying his best to decide how to answer. finally he decides to be strait forward.
"As you probably know my pack and I have kinda fallen into the role of protectors of our fledgling community. I say fallen, because, well, it just kinda happened, at least that's how I see it. The problem is, it seems that we are going to be called away again soon, and if this is going to be the trend, we will probably be away much more than we like in the future. We know there are capable warriors among our community, warriors who are willing to fight to protect, but their isn't any organization, and if this town were to be attacked by any serious force, I fear it will be quickly overran, even if we were here to defend it. As such, we have been tasked with assembling a militia, and the first step is finding a worthy leader. Someone people respect, and someone who is willing to work with and possible take orders from the new council. It just so happens, that you are one of a handful of people who may fit that role, and we are trying to sort out the best person for the job".
'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 18/12/16 - CMD 17 d20+8=10 ; d20+10=12 ; Wednesday May 27th, 2020 10:47:38 AM
'Lil winces. She takes a seat and leans back, hoping Cae will pick up on her casual demeanor and loosen up a bit. She pats the seat next to her if he don't take the hint.
She decides to do the talkin', hoping Caelwyn forgives her presumption. "Had lunch with Smithira earlier to talk about gettin' a militia up and running. Your name came up, seein' as how you've served before. We wanted to get a read on how willing you'd be to serve again and get some folks here fit to fight." She pauses a bit. "I'm just gonna be straight with you for this next bit: rumors are you felt you should be in charge. Hope you understand how that might make a body concerned about what they might do with a militia if they found themselves disagreeing with Smithira 'bout something down the line."
'Lil must be nervous about all this, cause she ain't on top of her game.
Diplomacy: 10 Sense motive: 12 - rolled 2 on both
Akuno Neko (Ken) AC 15 / CMD 17 - 20/20 Hp d20+9=22 ; d20=9 ; Wednesday May 27th, 2020 2:37:16 PM
Akuno watches the dwarf with burning intensity. She's not sure what she's looking for, but if something feels off, she'll let Lil know. If he looks offended at what 'Lil is suggesting to be the hiccup, she will try to help smooth that over too.
"Any wise leader has to keep a very concise picture of those who help her. It's not that we think you are going to try and lead an armed revolt." She clears her throat, and puts on an anticipatory smug smile."No dwarf with a brushed beard would do something like that." She punctuates this line with a snap and a wink. "Nailed it again! Time to drive it home!", she thinks. "We want to know if in your own, solid granite opinion of yourself, if you think you can keep your beard straight and your feet square on the stone." The lacy catgirl stomps tiny booted feet on the ground and pretends to stroke a beard, completely selling out to her attempt to get on even footing with the good dwarf.
"Especially if the time comes when Smitheras plan of action isn't what you would do. We don't expect you to pretend that watered down wine is good dwarven stout.." Here, she pantomimes drinking from her own massive tankard, the size of her head. "...but if she hears your arguments and insists you drink it, then we wanna make sure you'll do it with only the right and proper amount of grumbling!" She takes a final gulp of air, then slams down her mug and wipes her air beard, pleased as punch with her attempt at dwarven diplomacy.
Diplomacy 22: Trying to not offend him with their concerns. Aid Another Sense Motive: Failed.
Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 27/27 -- Aewen: AC 11 -- HP 13/13 Wednesday May 27th, 2020 4:08:47 PM
Thorondir wanders in and out listening to the conversations. Bigby's attempt to get him more involved hasn't worked yet. "I'm of no use here in this town. All of my skills are based upon the natural world, and I'm not much of a talker."
Thorondir did mention before that he is willing to teach techniques for using a sling better. "I'll be happy to teach those who want to improve using a sling in the morning. Better to hit your opponent from a distance than to stand around trading sword blows."
Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour Wednesday May 27th, 2020 6:26:16 PM
Sol nods.
"I am not sure how long we will remain here, but as I said we will probably be leaving soon... it may be something we have to discuss to be certain of exactly when we will leave."
BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 Wednesday May 27th, 2020 7:59:37 PM
Bigby takes note that Thorondir still isn't comfortable in town. He shrugs it off and thinks, well I can definitely understand that and lets him be on his way. He considers distant weapons for a moment and then laughs. nothing beats claws. hmm, not for later on a game. Sling, paper, claws. It could be fun.
DM Steve -- Rattledam -- Module 4, day 3, evening Wednesday May 27th, 2020 11:25:59 PM
Gruff listens to Grindar and chuckles. "No. Oh, I could make sure folks had decent weapons, and I might even be able to give 'em pointers on their use. I could work with a council, but. . . Okay, I'm less clannish than other folks. That comes from years living with humans. . . Helvede, you're serious. How about we stretch our legs together after supper?"
. Broag and the dwarves listen as 'Lil and Akuno say their piece and Caelwyn watches. 'Lil thinks what she said was perhaps received well enough, until Akuno starts explaining it in dwarven fashion. She watches the dwarves start a slow burn as the cat-girl speaks, until suddenly Broag's "rude" friend bursts out laughing. He says something -- "Jegville væreglad forat havenogle udvandet vini denneødemark. Bedreend hvadvi harfået nu." -- which gets the others laughing. Except for Broag.
"A militia? You've seen something in your travels we should know about?"
"You know, I was regular army. Any militia we make out of this lot won't be. They'll be farmers and craftsmen who learn how to fight." Broag gestures to the room as he speaks. "I'm probably the only one here who can take an order."
. Thorondir and Bigby hear what's going on, but keep to themselves. Taggert says good evening to Sol and goes on with his doings.
Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 44/44; CMD: 15 d20+11=19 ; Wednesday May 27th, 2020 11:57:12 PM
Caelwyn winces inwardly as Akuno speaks. This ridiculous cat-girl is going to ruin everything, he thinks to himself. He quickly picks up the conversation, trying to move on from that embarrassing moment.
"Well, we won't make a regular army in a day, certainly. But we are looking for those willing to help guide and protect this town. You have the most experience out of anyone here. You aren't the only one we are speaking with, but we wanted to see if you might be willing to have a hand in protecting this place."
Diplomacy 19
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 May 28th, 2020 6:01:01 AM
Grindar happily agrees to take a stroll with Gruff after supper. He finds he likes Gruff"s demeanor greatly, especially his modesty. He believes in his mind that Gruff is the right man for the job, but how does he inform his friends, who seem bent on Broag? Finally he sees a solution, as he realizes that Gruff is a person who understands how things work. He says to him, "I would love to join you for a stroll after dinner, but I need to check in with my pack first, will that work for you?" If Gruff is fine with Grindar checking in, the half-orc will excuse himself, and head over to where the rest of his pack are interrogating Broag. "Guys, something has come to the surface, and I need to talk to you all in private!", Grindar says to get the pack away from Broag. When out or ear shot, he says, "I think Gruff is our man, or I suppose I should say dwarf. He's humble, personable, as well as, even keeled, and because he grew up among humans, he doesn't hold any clannish attachments! He doesn't say a lot, but when he does, people listen, that's the kind of respect he carries among the others, and everyone seems to enjoy his presence. After dinner I'm supposed to go for a stroll with him to talk about the prospects, maybe you guys should join me".
'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 18/12/16 - CMD 17 Thursday May 28th, 2020 12:29:17 PM "Any militia we make out of this lot won't be. They'll be farmers and craftsmen who learn how to fight."
"Yea, like we said: a militia." 'Lil's rubbed the wrong way by these dudes speaking dwarf. It's rude, even if Akuno was talkin' way too fancy for these folks. When Grindar comes with his news, she's plenty ready to excuse herself.
"Ok dude. I'm not crazy about Broag and his posse. I'll give this other dwarf a listen."
BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 d20=2 ; Thursday May 28th, 2020 4:22:44 PM
Bigby will join along with Grindars request. He attempts sense motive, but senses nothing. I'll just trust Grindar, 'Lil and Cael to handle this. But if things get dicey, we're here to help he thinks.
Akuno Neko (Ken) AC 15 / CMD 17 - 20/20 Hp Thursday May 28th, 2020 7:17:32 PM
When everyone starts readying to leave, Akuno isn't quite sure who to follow. She does a little dance of moving back and forth, before waving a cheerful goodbye to Broag and following 'Lil out the door.
Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 44/44; CMD: 15 Thursday May 28th, 2020 9:06:34 PM
Caelwyn is happy to hear about Gruff's potential, but he still wants to finish his talk with Broag. Whether or not Broag is selected as a leader, they will need him and his followers to take part in the military preparations if the city is to survive. He waits to hear what Broag will say.
DM Steve -- Rattledam -- Module 4, day 3, evening Friday May 29th, 2020 12:26:48 AM
Grindar talks to his friends, then goes to talk more with Gruff. 'Lil, Bigby, and Akuno follow. When they meet outside, Gruff says, "Didn't realize there'd be many of you." The little group walks for a while, variously in small talk or in silence, before getting to the point. After a while, it's clear Gruff is leading you a particular direction. "I'm guessing that if you're talking to me, someone said something that makes you worry about Broag. More than a guess, really -- he's clearly got the background for the job."
Gruff goes to the upper edge of town, where the construction is different. There are no grass huts here, but a slight slope dug into the gentle hillside. It leads to an earthen wall that has a half-dozen doors set in it. "You can guess who lives in these houses. Now, down there you can a seam of rubble. It's traditional construction to protect from flooding. Think we need flood protection here? Took a lot of work to build a trench drain into this hillside. Most of the town thought it was crazy, but there's a good number of dwarves here, determined to do what they know. Door on the right there belongs to Needle. He was so happy when he saw this. Seems that it doesn't rain every year, but there's a seasonal storm. And if you happen to be where it rains, it floods. The Climbers never thought to drain their tunnels. The dwarves knew what they were doing, but they couldn't convince the rest of the town." Gruff looks at everyone, maybe trying to decide if they understand. "Broag knows more about training people to fight than I ever will. He's just. . . hidebound."
. Caelwyn stays to talk to Broag.
Broag seems out of sorts. But he answers Caelwyn's questions. There's probably no one here better qualified to play a significant role in keeping Rattledam safe. He has been a professional soldier, lead units, and trained recruits. And why Caelwyn's friend got upset when he was explaining that militias are tied to the community and prone to consider more than what they're told to do is beyond him. The obnoxious fellow who's been speaking dwarven switches to plain Common to back up what Broag's telling Caelwyn, and aplogizes to Caelwyn for teasing Broag about the cat-girl.
. Sol -- Perception DC 15: Highlight to display spoiler: {When Akuno tried to talk to them, the dwarves responded with a joke about watered down wine being better than what they drink now. A pun was involved. They followed up teasing Broag about the questions.}
Thorondir watches the door.
Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour d20+1=8 ; Friday May 29th, 2020 2:58:15 AM
Sol is not being perceptive today, and remains quiet, as he doesn't want to interfere with choosing a militia leader, something far beyond his scope of abilities.
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 May 29th, 2020 6:18:53 AM "Gruff, we recognize Broag's, ability, and would love nothing else but to utilize it, but our concern isn't his ability to lead a militia, it's his ability to play nice. We need a militia leader who recognizes potential in the abilities of everyone, not just his own kind, after all we a community of multiple races living together, and not everyone can do what your people do brilliantly, while at the same time, there are things humans do better then anyone, and so on and so forth. I agree with you that Broag can't see past his own race, and that has potential to limit our strength. I am also afraid that he may not be able to, or willing to work with and take orders from the council, that's being formed, and the council leader, who for the time being is Smithera. Gruff, you have said that you grew up among humans, and watching you at dinner, it is obvious that you are comfortable with people of different races, and unlike Broag, you haven't shown any ambitions for the council leadership. In the short time I've been talking to you, I have gleaned that you are both humble and confident, which are two traits you don't often find in the same person. If you are chosen as the militia leader, I would suggest talking to Broag and asking him to help, maybe even making him your lieutenant. Of course no decisions have been made yet, but if you are chosen, I believe you have the potential to do an amazing job.
'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 18/12/16 - CMD 17 Friday May 29th, 2020 11:57:28 AM
'Lil tends to agree with Grindar's thinkin', but it brings her back to the same issue she had with Cae bein' in charge: that bein' the militia will know who's really in charge when Broag is the one with all the expertise. She reckons her and her dudes are gonna end up disagreeing about who should be in charge.
She don't have a real strong opinion either way. She finds Gruff a lot more likable, but puttin' him in charge of a militia seems like it'd be pigeon-holing him where he don't belong. Then she remembers that this really ain't their decision to make. Best they can do is report back to Smithira and let the elected leadership of this new town decide.
Akuno Neko (Ken) AC 15 / CMD 17 - 20/20 Hp Friday May 29th, 2020 2:27:08 PM
Hopping around was fun, but Akuno could be easily distracted. She had let Broag know what the worry was, and she kinda thought he was a good choice to oversee training, if not the militia in general.
"The drill sergeant doesn't have to be the commander.", she mumbles.
Suddenly disenchanted with the whole affair, Akuno decides its time to muck about and look at this place a bit closer. What's here? Stores? Food? Just some houses? Akuno takes the time to explore the place.
Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 27/27 -- Aewen: AC 11 -- HP 13/13 d20+6=17 ; Friday May 29th, 2020 8:45:19 PM
Seeing Akuno slip out to explore, Thorondir follows her. "What you hoping to find? If it is excitement, I think you are in the wrong town. They don't have anything to spare here, and the sooner we are gone the better."
Seeing that it is evening, Thorondir decides if he is going to look around he better have the right set of eyes.
"I'm going to fly around as an owl and see what I can see. I'll let you know." Perception check 17 Thorondir wildshapes into an owl and will fly around trying to spot anything that has escaped his notice.
BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 Friday May 29th, 2020 11:25:30 PM
Bigby just listens in, not having much to add to the situation. He leans towards having towards supporting Grindar's dwarf.
Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 44/44; CMD: 15 Friday May 29th, 2020 11:55:14 PM
Caelwyn listens hard to Broag's words, looking for any sign of dishonesty. He hasn't picked up on anything so far. The dwarf is clearly a soldier.
"Thank you, Broag. I apologize for my friend's brusqueness - she has not serve in any military unit herself, as far as I can tell, and doesn't seem to understand the point you were making. I must speak with my companions, but it's clear to me that you are a capable warrior and strategist. If we are to survive, we must all band together and use our skills for the good of the whole community - yours may be of great help to Rattledam. I'll be in touch."
He accepts the other dwarf's apology and moves to find his friends, thinking hard.
Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 44/44; CMD: 15 d20=8 ; d20+11=25 ; Friday May 29th, 2020 11:55:44 PM
Sense motive: 8
Diplomacy: 25
DM Steve -- Rattledam -- Module 4, day 4, morning Saturday May 30th, 2020 12:56:36 AM
As Caelwyn leaves the dining hall, he is offered a few items wrapped in leaves, to take for breakfast. By the time he finds the others, Gruff has left them. Akuno has left the group to go exploring on her own. Thorondir has done the same. 'Lil, Grindar, and Bigby are talking among themselves about what they learned. Sol catches up with the group carrying his own breakfast packages. Having learned what they could from Broag and Gruff, and not having a chance to talk to others before the dinner is over, there's not much to do until morning. Even the explorers find the community to be quiet that evening.
Breakfast turns out to be some very chewy bread with a thick, mild, meat-flavored paste. It's almost like fowl, but outside of the homes of druids, the party isn't sure they've seen any birds in the plains.
Sprocket finds the group early, and asks what the plan is. Taggert told him last night that they weren't looking to stick around long. "And if you don't mind me asking, what do you call yourselves? Not your names, mind, but your pack as Freakshow would say."
Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour Sunday May 31st, 2020 5:57:36 AM
Sol looks a little taken aback.
"A group name? I had not really thought about that being a requirement to be honest with you."
He then looks at the rest of the party to see if they have had any thoughts.
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 Sunday May 31st, 2020 12:08:46 PM
“We’ve discussed this on and off, but honestly We never came up with a name with enough shade to it. I personally like the name Sargrass Sentinels, but I also like the Rattledam Rangers, The Wolf Pack, as well as simply “The Pack”, they all sound very Sargrassian to me, but whether or not they have the right shade to them, and whether or not they fit our pack...???”
Akuno Neko (Ken) AC 15 / CMD 17 - 20/20 Hp Sunday May 31st, 2020 1:51:12 PM
Akuno thinks for a moment.
"The Traveling Knights of Princess Akuno?", she helpfully suggests. "Or maybe, if its better to keep some things secret, we can shorten down to something like..." She squeezes her fists against her head, trying to squeeze juicy thoughts from her brain. "The Grass Guard? I mean, that seems to be what you do, is travel about and guard the communities of the Sargrass. You just show up when needed, right? Like palace guards."
Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 27/27 -- Aewen: AC 11 -- HP 13/13 Sunday May 31st, 2020 7:42:25 PM "I'm wondering that too." says Thorondir in response to Sprocket's question. "I mean I really don't know much about you myself. I was asked to tag along to keep an eye on things, but I really don't know much about you guys. You talk with reverence about druid wood, so I assume you are good. Though I too would like to know more about you. Your name would be handy, incase I need to call upon your group someday. I didn't realize Akuno was your leader when we first started out, since she wasn't with us until we got here."
He turns to Akuno and with a slight bow he adds "So your highness, I should call your group the Grass Guard?"
Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 44/44; CMD: 15 Sunday May 31st, 2020 11:52:14 PM
Caelwyn glances sideways at Thorondir and Akuno, barely managing to keep from rolling his eyes and stifling a smile. "We did not meet Akuno until we returned to Rattledam, Thorondir - you have been travelling with us longer than she has, actually."
"I prefer the Sargrass Sentinals as well, Grindar - has a better ring to it. That would be my vote, should we make a decision. We are the protectors of this town and the area around it, so I think it fits."
'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 18/12/16 - CMD 17 Monday June 1st, 2020 10:43:10 AM
'Lil feels the need to clear somethin' up right now.
"Think I've let this slip too long already, kinda hopin' it would go away." She turns to Akuno. "I ain't gonna speak for these dudes, but I am no one's knight 'cept Domi's. Ain't sure where you got the idea that we was'er to serve you, but I ain't on board with that. You handle yourself in a fight and work to keep these folks safe with us, you're more than welcome. Let's just make sure we're all real clear on the hierarchy here, ok?"
She waits a moment before concluding, "..and yea, Sargrass Sentinels sounds like a winner to me too. Good thinkin', Grindar."
BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 Monday June 1st, 2020 2:17:10 PM
Bigby thinks, don't care if we are called wolf pack, but I consider this my pack. He looks to Wolfgang, and says "our pack. Better?" To the group, "Sentinels of the Sargrass, sure sure. Ummm, but what is a sentinel?"
Akuno Neko (Ken) AC 15 / CMD 17 - 20/20 Hp Monday June 1st, 2020 2:46:49 PM
With a frown, Akuno shies away from 'Lil with big, defiant eyes. "I never said anything of the sort! I just thought it was a good name!" Her tail twitches, showing agitation. Like a cat, she starts grooming her dress, covering her embarrassment. "But don't you worry, Knight of Domi, I'll not err on the side of being too familiar with you again." She picks a small bug from her dress, and flicks it to the ground. She watches it crawl for a second, then crosses her arms and turns away from Lil. "Hierarchy understood."
Normally, she would have found a spot to sulk. Instead, she uses Bibgy's question as a distraction.
Akuno pats Wolfgang, and answers Bigby, and only the tiniest bit of haughtiness creeps into her voice. "Its a guard or knight, keeping watch and protecting from attack. Sometimes they stay in one place forever, serving until relieved or their duty is finished." It's a bit of a romanticized answer, but its more or less accurate she thinks.
Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 27/27 -- Aewen: AC 11 -- HP 13/13 Monday June 1st, 2020 4:36:37 PM
Looking from Akuno to Lil, Thorondir shrugs. He whistles, and Aewen comes down from the sky and lands upon his shoulder. They preen each other and Thorondir says in the eagle language "You are much easier to understand. These strange folk seem to not know who they are, as of yet anyway."
Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour Monday June 1st, 2020 6:04:34 PM
Sol nods.
"I also think the Sargrass Sentinals has a nice ring to it... I just wish I had thought of it..." he gives Grindar a playful punch on the arm, despite his apparent lack of physicality. You suspect even if he had tried it wouldn't have hurt...
Sol looks a little concerned when Akuno get's quite clearly offended.
"I am not certain we even have an official leader. Simply because we have never needed to think about it. We all have strengths and weaknesses that each of us can cover. Do we need a specific leader? If so, as much as I might like the task, I am not certain I would have all of your support, given my... uh... lack of contributions in some areas."
Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 44/44; CMD: 15 Monday June 1st, 2020 11:52:43 PM
Caelwy backs up Lil as well. "I am a servant of Domi, Akuno, and therefore will seek to protect you along with other innocents from those who might do you harm. But I do not serve you. We shall work together, however, and hopefully we can achieve safety for Rattledam." He smiles, hoping to show Akuno that he is not angry and that he means this kindly.
DM Steve -- Rattledam -- Module 4, day 4, morning Tuesday June 2nd, 2020 12:04:46 AM
Sprocket apologizes for distracting you, and says he'll be ready when you are. Meanwhile, he knows you're working on another task. "And how's that going, if I may ask? Don't let Smithira put too much on you. We can deal with our tensions if you need to deal with your own."
Folks here are working hard, with always more to do. That doesn't mean you can't ask more questions or find a moment to share your opnions.
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 June 2nd, 2020 6:00:05 AM
Grindar smiles at Sol's playful punch, then acts as if he was hurt, before breaking out laughing with his friend. He than turns to Sproket and says:
"Well, I guess we are officially the Sargrass Sentinels, by a overwhelming vote, but don't worry Sprocket, I feel we needed to make a decision on a name eventually anyways, after all, all the note worthy adventuring packs have one, not that we are going out of our way to be noteworthy, at the moment, it feels that we are just trying to survive, kinda like everyone else in Rattledam. As to the task given us by Smithira we have been asked to determine who might make a good leader for a militia, as it has become clear that an organized defense is essential for our community's survival. We have interviewed both Gruff and Broag, whom Smithira suggested may be good candidates. Our conclusion is that Broag has by far the most military experience in Rattledam, experience that would most defiantly serve him well, but he is a bit close minded towards non-dwarves, and possibly a bit of a hot head. While on the other hand Gruff has no military experience, but he is a natural born leader. He is respected and well liked by people of all races, as well as a team player. Personally, I would love to find a way that we could utilize Broag's experience and Gruff's level headed, and inclusive, leadership skills. Of course the final outcome will be decided by Smithira and the new council, but my suggestion would be to make Gruff the commander of the militia, and Broag his Lieutenant/Drill Sargent, thus gaining the benefits of both leaders, doing what they do best, assuming of course that Broag would be willing to be Gruff's subordinate."
Akuno Neko (Ken) AC 15 / CMD 17 - 20/20 Hp Tuesday June 2nd, 2020 10:27:50 AM
Akuno tries her best to be quiet and respectful, and finds herself squirming while Caelwyn talks. For some reason, she saw him different than she did 'Lil. He was more of an authority, and not someone she wanted to roll eyes at or stomp feet with.
Face flush, she repeats what she told them all from the very beginning. "Rulership is servitude, ser Caelwyn. I'm here for three reasons. To serve and help other people, to become a better noble, and to find out where I belong. I've no desire to lead an adventuring group I joined to learn how to adventure!" She knew she was sounding whiny, like an upset tween, so she zips her lips and offers a most excellent curtsy before excusing herself and plopping down on a floating disc, near Thorondir.
"Your bird is pretty.", she sniffles. "Can I pet it?"
Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour Tuesday June 2nd, 2020 5:34:43 PM
Sol simple stays quiet and lets Grindar speak, he was speaking well and was giving out the conclusions the group had come to.
Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 27/27 -- Aewen: AC 11 -- HP 13/13 Tuesday June 2nd, 2020 6:14:25 PM "Well Akuno, petting is more for dogs and cats. Aewen likes to be preened, that means you look through the feathers and clean them. If you see any lice or ticks" Thorondir pulls a small tick from between Aewen's feathers "like this, just pull it out and eat it." Thorondir pops it into his mouth and bites it between his teeth and then swallows. "If you build trust, Aewen will also return the favor and preen you, removing any lice or ticks that may be in your fur.
Thorondir talks to Aewen, and then holds the bird close to Akuno. "Would you like to try?"
He then turns and looks at the group. "So you guys are the Sargrass Sentinels? You don't have a leader though I take it? Perhaps you can take it in turns to act as a sort of executive officer for the week."
'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 18/12/16 - CMD 17 Tuesday June 2nd, 2020 6:23:19 PM
'Lil smiles. "All good then, Akuno dude." She ain't too on board with any'a them being leader, but she also ain't sure Thorondir wasn't just joking around. She hadn't spent too much time with the guy, but to be fair dude spent a lotta time away from people.
Nothing wrong with that, of course.
She listens to Akuno's response to Cae. "I dunno, Akuno. I hear leader types sayin' they're servants a lot, but I don't know any servants that eat as well as royalty, ya know? Always just thought that was something they said to take some'a the heat off them." Her tone is friendly. She's not looking to start an argument, just a discussion. "Don't mean I don't think you don't believe it, mind you." She goes back over that sentence in her head. That was a lot of don'ts thrown out at once. Reckon she should make sure she didn't accidentally throw out a double negative. She thinks she said it right.
BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 Tuesday June 2nd, 2020 8:54:08 PM
Bigby thinks on the leadership talk, "so we need an alpha that the pack can follow? I'm sure someone will emerge. Some have already." Bigby trails off in thought. He considers what Thorondir says of Aewen and nods that it makes sesne.
Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 44/44; CMD: 15 Tuesday June 2nd, 2020 11:12:15 PM
Caelwyn is unsure about Grindar's position. "I am not yet convinced that Broag is the wrong person to lead the militia. He is undoubtedly the one with the most expertise, and no one else will know how to train the soldiers properly. And I don't think there is any chance he will answer to Gruff - they know as well as we do that Broag is the one with the qualifications. If he's willing to be militia leader, and doesn't seek to elevate himself further, maybe it should be considered? But we need to find Gruff a position as well, he clearly seems to merit it."
He listens to Thorondir's suggestion. "Interesting. But perhaps all the decisions of that officer should be ratified at a special bi-weekly meeting?"
DM Steve -- Rattledam -- Module 4, day 4, midday Wednesday June 3rd, 2020 12:53:56 AM
Two positions arise from the group's internal discussions. Broag can drill routines and combat scenes with footwork impeccable, but is that enough?
Before the debate is settled, Taggert finds the group. "Say, did you happen to be looking for Smithira this morning?" Seems that she's missing a tool or two. It's not like her to misplace things, and Taggert thought that if anyone had been around maybe they'd seen something. Upon learning that group has not been out, Taggert leaves, with a wink for Akuno and a cheery, "It's a busy life in Rattledam," for everyone.
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 June 3rd, 2020 6:00:40 AM "You know Cae, I don't disagree with you regarding Broag's abilities, he's probably got more experience then you and I combined, my concern is whether or not he can be a team player. That said, I'm glad the final decision isn't up to us, and I'm Ok with both our recommendations going to the Powers that Be, and letting them decide which one is best! Sounds like we should just go talk to Smithira and tell her our observations, and maybe help her find the missing tools", Grindar laughs when he mentions the tools, giving the impression that he added that bit as a joke. "As far as a pack leader is concerned, we have multiple pack mates who have displayed wisdom, we have multiple pack mates who can hold, and have held the front line, handing out encouragement as they go, we have pack mates who display amazing rear echelon abilities, we have intelligent pack mates, and strong pack mates, and the list goes on and on. The point is we are all leaders in our own way! Those of us who have fought side by side have learned to trust one another, and rely on their abilities, and as far as our newest pack mates are concerned, I'm looking forward to seeing what they have to bring to the pack as well. We don't need an official leader, as the right person has and will continue to step up when the situation arises.
Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 27/27 -- Aewen: AC 11 -- HP 13/13 Wednesday June 3rd, 2020 1:21:39 PM
Thorondir nods at Caelwyn's suggestion. "Yes, a bi-weekly meeting would be a great idea to ratify decisions."
While he listens to Grindar outlining how the group works and leaders step up as needed, he adds "Sort of a anarcho syndicalism communal sort of a system? Sounds like a great way to keep the power in the hands of people. Why don't you suggest such a system for Rattledam?"
Upon hearing of the missing tools, Thorondir seems to change his mood. Looking at the group he says: "Tools don't just go missing on their own, sounds like perhaps theft is taking place. Has Rattledam had problems with theft before?
During all of this, he is checking Aewen for lice and ticks, pulling them off and eating them. Waiting to see if Akuno wants to take part.
'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 18/12/16 - CMD 17 Wednesday June 3rd, 2020 2:12:20 PM
'Lil's pretty sure ticks cause disease. She ain't sure eating them's a good idea, but she also don't want to stick her nose where it don't belong.
She decides to focus on the tool thing too. "All this talk about militia, we never talked about a Sheriff. I'm gonna go talk to Smithira about it afore we start playing detective. Might be a good time to talk about who's leading the militia too if anyone wants to join."
Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour Wednesday June 3rd, 2020 5:45:03 PM
Sol nods at Grindar's words.
"I like that idea. We can defer to who has the most expertise to deal with the given situation at hand." he smiles, which quickly fades at the mention of the missing tools.
"Oh... that is unfortunate..." he gives a somewhat uncertain glance to Thorondir. "Are we quite certain we wish to jump to the conclusion of theft? I am not saying it is not the case, but there are not many here in Rattledam yet... a thief amongst us would be... unsettling..." he pauses.
"However I do not wish to shy away from harsh truths. Though is it possible someone has merely borrowed them without asking and intends to return them? We should still investigate to ensure this sort of thing does not happen again, whatever the cause."
Akuno Neko (Ken) AC 15 / CMD 17 - 20/20 Hp Wednesday June 3rd, 2020 5:46:53 PM
Breathing a little easier after catching a wink from Taggart and a measure of conciliatory tone from 'Lil, her spirits are on the rise. She smiles back at Taggart and gives him a thumbs up.
She watches Thoromir carefully, and decides to give it a go with Aelwyn. She's never been much of a bird person, but right now this little lady was pretty, and show she sifts through a few feathers very carefully. When she finds a bug, she pierces it with a single claw, and flicks it to the ground. When she sees what Thoromir is doing, she's horrified.
"There's no way I could eat them!", she loudly whispers. She wasn't sure why she was whispering, she just didn't think Aelwyn would appreciate loud noises in her ears.
---------------------------------
Regarding sheriffs and militias, she felt like the dwarves were all good leaders in different capacities. Whatever Smithera picked, she didn't think there would be a problem.
BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 Wednesday June 3rd, 2020 8:59:51 PM right about now, Bigby would be sure to pull out a pipe and light it."A theif you say? The game is a foot." He trails off to Thorondir's eating of the lice. "probably good protein."
Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 44/44; CMD: 15 Wednesday June 3rd, 2020 11:01:58 PM
Caelwyn nods his head as Thorondir responds. "Precisely...more of an autonomous collective rather than a dictatorship."
He is also glad they don't have to make the final decision about the positions in town. And that is strange about the missing tools..."Perhaps they were borrowed, or taken by mistake?"
DM Steve -- Rattledam -- Module 4, day 4, midday Thursday June 4th, 2020 12:01:07 AM 'Lil leaves to look or Smithira, not surprised if the others follow her. Smithira is not hard to find today -- she's in her shop. By trade, Smithira is a carpenter.
"Oh, hi," Smithira says softly when she sees everyone there. "What have you been up to?" But she immediately continues, more confident, "Learned anything?" Her voice more reminiscent of a human's than a dwarf's -- sweeter and higher pitched than most of her fellows.
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 June 4th, 2020 6:15:02 AM
Grindar shares what he learned about Gruff, and what he learned from Gruff. He concludes by saying that his suggestion would be to chose Gruff to be the commander, and if he is willing, have Broag be his lieutenant/drill sergeant. He tells Smithira that this isn't a group consensus, and mentions that Caelwyn may have a different recommendation.
"I hear your missing some tools. What kinda tools are we talking about, and do you have any idea as to where they may be?"
Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour Thursday June 4th, 2020 5:39:09 PM
Sol nods, baking up what Grindar says to Smithira.
"We wanted to offer our skills to help you find them."
BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 Thursday June 4th, 2020 8:09:27 PM "Indeed tell of the tools. The game is a paw." Bigby taps a claw on hi cheek.
Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 27/27 -- Aewen: AC 11 -- HP 13/13 Thursday June 4th, 2020 8:31:40 PM
After preening Aewen, Thorondir speaks to her in eagle shrieks and she flies up into the sky.
"There is nothing wrong with eating these parasites Akuno, that is how animals clean each other and get a small high protein snack in return as Bigby says. Some folk think they may bring disease, but we know that Marteaus is the source of disease. Don't cross him, and you should be healthy no matter what you eat."
Responding to Caelwyn, he says "It is good to be part of an autonomous collective. I couldn't be ruled by a dictator, I value my freedom too much."
He tags along, interested in the tool mystery. He is a bit concerned that Sol thinks he is prejudging folks too soon. "Sol, I don't mean to judge too harshly. Though it seems to me that Smithera isn't the sort to be careless with the tools of her trade."
DM Steve -- Rattledam -- Module 4, day 4, midday Friday June 5th, 2020 12:51:35 AM "No one here is careless with their tools. It's too hard to replace them. No one here would steal tools, either. It would be noticed who had them in time. I'm missing a case about so big," Smithira gestures, "with my rasps. Don't worry, they'll turn up. Look if you want." She offers to make everyone tea, and excuses herself for a moment.
Smithira returns shortly. "So, when you recommend a militia, I assume that means in a place this size everyone would have to take their turn in it." She picks the party's brains on that topic a bit, before turning to others, such as what specific dangers rhe party has seen and what their long-term plans are.
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 June 5th, 2020 6:04:23 AM "As far as the militia is concerned, and based on the current size of our community, you are probably right, all able body persons should participate for now. Eventually, as Rattledam grows, we may be able to drop the militia, in favor of a full time guard, but let's not get ahead of ourselves", Grindar says, in way of an answer. "I personally haven't given much thought to long-term goals. We have been running from here to there since we have arrived, with unimaginable dangers always just around the corner, it feels like we are just trying to stay alive! I do desire to see Rattledam grow and prosper, and will do what I can to make that happen, with the Druid wood ship being a good place to start. I also wish to see the plains become a safer place to live and travel. The only personal goal I have is to be known as a hero of justice!
'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 18/12/16 - CMD 17 Friday June 5th, 2020 11:05:18 AM "Eh, I don't think this place'll ever be safe safe, ya know? Old Rattledam had to be built with a giant dome just to keep the Sargrass from swoopin' in and killing everyone."
It's a hard question. They're here because a duke asked them to come get this place ready for him to exploit it's natural resources. At least, that was her read on the situation.
"Danger-wise there's critters out there I don't know the names of. There's big bugs, cannibal halflings, and this thing called a mutation bloom popped up and turned just 'bout every creature around it into a bloodthirsty beast. This place is real dangerous, Smithira. We'll need hard work and brave souls and all that, but it may not be enough.
"Militia's up to you as far as I'm concerned. You want my help with it, all you gotta do is ask. Regarding Gruff or Broag, both have their merits. We don't necessarily agree on the best one for the job. Asuko wisely pointed out that the drill sergeant ain't gotta be the militia commander. Broag would certainly make the better drill sergeant. That's something we do agree on."
Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour Friday June 5th, 2020 8:17:00 PM
Sol smiles at Thorondir.
"Oh absolutely, I agree... I just dislike jumping to any conclusions without facts to support it. Suggesting a thief is definitely a possibility, but we have no evidence to confirm it. I have often found that if you come up with a theory, such a thief did it, it can often become too easy to twist the facts to suit the theory rather than your theory to suit the facts. The facts are that Smithira has lost some tools, but it seems unlikely she would have lost them, yet they should be found. That is all we currently know."
He shrugs.
"Once we have more evidence we can merge that into our theory too."
Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 44/44; CMD: 15 Friday June 5th, 2020 11:43:55 PM
Caelwyn shares his recommendations as well. "It's true, this is a land of deadly perils. Any able body person must take their share in the militia, as needed. Broag is clearly an experienced warrior, and his talents should not be wasted. As to whether or not he should truly be in command...I leave that up to your good judgement. It seems that Gruff has a better disposition, but I don't think Broag would answer to him as a lieutenant."
He's glad Thorondir agrees with him. "Exactly! Couldn't stand being repressed all the time, now could we?"
DM Steve -- Rattledam -- Module 4, day 4, midday Saturday June 6th, 2020 9:46:02 AM Lil's comments drag Smithira off in another direction momentarily. "Oh, the dome. Ahyoka and Needle say we need it, but aside from saying things get worse at times haven't explained why. I think it will take years to build, even if we started now. Freakshow doesn't push for it. We just don't have the resources yet." She shakes her head and gets back to her earlier train of thought.
"The reason I ask about long term goals is to think about whether we need to be planning houses for any of you in the near term. Guess it doesn't matter if we keep a couple of the tents from being put to other purposes."
Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 44/44; CMD: 15 Sunday June 7th, 2020 10:59:57 PM
Caelwyn thanks Smithra for the kind words. "But don't use resources on us - we will likely be traveling on and off for some time, sorting everything out. We should be fine for now."
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 June 8th, 2020 6:41:47 AM "Eventually, it would be nice to have a permanent place to call home, but like Cae said don't worry about our needs over much, we are far from a priority since we never know how we will be staying when we are here".
Akuno Neko (Ken) AC 15 / CMD 17 - 20/20 Hp Monday June 8th, 2020 11:46:07 AM
Akuno thinks heavily on the idea of a home. A base, maybe, or a camp. Her home was somewhere else, she was just still looking for it.
"I'm with Caylwyn. If something gets set up here, we can probably handle it ourselves!"
BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 Monday June 8th, 2020 12:56:28 PM "Home is where the pack is." Bigby thinks, no wait he said it outloud. Sometimes Bigby wonders if he is losing grasp on his world.
Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour Monday June 8th, 2020 6:21:14 PM
Sol nods and reflects Caelwyn's words.
"With the limited supplies, it is not worth using them on us who may not be here at all for weeks at a time. As and when it comes to it, if there are enough spare supplies that are not needed elsewhere for infrastructure, or the homes of other people, then I am certain we would like a home to call our own. But until such time, I am perfectly happy staying in my tent. Even if it is a little heavy to keep carrying around..."
He smiles.
"But that is why Grindar is such a good friend, he does not mind carrying it for me."
Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 27/27 -- Aewen: AC 11 -- HP 13/13 Monday June 8th, 2020 10:54:27 PM
Thorondir, glad to be part of an autonomous collective agrees with the rest. "Please do not waste precious resources on us, we can provide for ourselves." He looks around and his eyes rest on Akuno "Well, I'm sure we all do our best to provide for our own needs. At any rate, I'm sure we can help each other in turn."
He looks up at Aewen flies high above, and has a longing to join him. "I'm getting a bit hungry, so I will join Aewen soon for a hunt if nothing is pressing that we should be doing. Keeping ones strength is important, you must take care of yourself if you are to help others."
If nothing is pressing, Thorondir wildshapes into an eagle and joins Aewen for a hunt for their midday meal.
DM Steve -- Rattledam -- Module 4, day 4, evening Tuesday June 9th, 2020 1:09:44 AM "Very well." Smithira takes everyone at their words that they will sort out their place in time. She offers them a small lunch before returning to her work. Thorondir prefers hunting. The rest of the group can spend the afternoon hunting or pursuing other endeavors.
That evening at supper, Smithera asks for everyone's attention before the food is served. "A few nights ago, we started talking about forming a town council. We need to talk about that again. After we eat." Supper is served as normal then, although of course many of the conversations turn on the subject of a council.
The dynamic of the meal is a bit changed from the previous evenings, though. Smithira sits wih the insiders, Ahyoka, Freakshow, and Needle, rather than walking among the tables. Taggert walks the tables, though, as does Sprocket. After the meal, Sprocket announces that he has talked to everyone and feels that the appropriate number on the council is three. This is not a large community to justify a large number. When no one voices objections, he goes on to recommend that the council choose a mayor who is not one of their number. This causes some consternation.
"But that means we can't pick the best people for the council."
"Well, it means that anyone who wants to be mayor would have to remove themself from election for council. There's still enough good people available for council."
Smithira speaks up. "Like I said the other night, the council needs to pull us together, not split us apart. I'm not sure I see how your proposal will do that, Sprocket."
Sprocket responds, "Pick people you trust to set the rules we will live by for the council. But let them find someone to enforce those rules who doesn't also make them. I've seen good people do bad things when they were given too much authority."
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 June 9th, 2020 6:56:10 AM
Grindar isn't sure what to say about the mayor council thing, though Sprockets words make sense. The truth is, he is more then a little tired of politics, and would rather be doing just about anything then talking politics again. He, of course keeps that to himself and acts respectfully, only speaking if called upon.
Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 44/44; CMD: 15 d20+11=19 ; Tuesday June 9th, 2020 9:15:36 AM
"I see what Sprocket is saying" Caelwyn says. "There should be some separation between council and mayor, so that both groups can hold each other accountable. If they are the same people, that makes things difficult." He takes a moment to think. "Was there a particular candidate people had in mind?"
In all he says, Caelwyn tries to exude calm and respect. Now was the key moment, if ever, to make sure cool heads prevailed.
Diplomacy 19
'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 18/12/16 - CMD 17 d20+10=18 ; Tuesday June 9th, 2020 11:05:24 AM
OOC: I had the view set to 2 days instead of last post & thought we were still waiting on our DM post. That's my bad. Sorry guys.
"Best people is a pretty vague term. The best folk to make the laws ain't necessarily the best folk to carry'em out," 'Lil opines. "Cae's right. If the executive folk and legislative folk start working too closely together, that's a recipe for...well, tyranny's a strong word, but you get what I'm sayin'."
She knows this stuff's important, but she sure wishes these folk would come to an agreement.
Diplomacy aid other: 18. +2 to Caelwyn's 19 if that's a success.
Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 27/27 -- Aewen: AC 11 -- HP 13/13 Tuesday June 9th, 2020 7:03:09 PM
Thorondir shakes his head and looks about the room. This is all too much for me. He sits and reflects quietly on what he has gotten himself into, wishing that he was outside in a grove of trees somewhere.
BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 Tuesday June 9th, 2020 7:54:15 PM
Bigby just listens in and stays silent. Not sure what to add at this moment. He thinks to himself sometimes its just best to make a decision and live with it. Say something about Bigby, say he's practical.
DM Steve -- Rattledam -- Module 4, day 4, evening d20=2 ; d20=1 ; d12=1 ; Tuesday June 9th, 2020 11:42:04 PM
Buoyed by Caelwyn and 'Lil's endorsement, and despite grumblings that Smithera's the clear choice for mayor, the townsfolk agree with Sprocket's proposal that they elect three council members who will select a mayor.
Perception DC 15: Highlight to display spoiler: {Broag seems to be vaguely worried with the proposal, or perhaps just perplexed, but he makes no argument against it.}
Sprocket calls for nominations for council members, and says everyone should vote Yea or Nay on each candidate. Those that get the most Yeas would be the ones elected.
The dwarves nominate Broag, who immediately declines. Also nominated are Jarl, Smithera, Sprocket, Nicephorus, Freakshow, and Kuiper. Each is asked if they would accept the position, and all eventually agree. It takes Freakshow quite a while to make his decision. Several people seem upset when Smithera makes hers.
Sense Motive DC 7: Highlight to display spoiler: {Broag clearly would rather be mayor. People have realized that Smithera won't be mayor if she's on the council.}
Sprocket starts to say more, but Taggert steps in. "Seeing that Sprocket is now a candidate, I think someone else should lead the vote. Perhaps. . . Akuno, could you see if nominations are complete, give people a chance to speak, and take the votes? I think we can all agree you have no ties here that would lead you to favor anyone." Half the people seem confused when Taggert asks that, but no one argues with what he says.
Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour d20+1=16 ; d20+1=14 ; Wednesday June 10th, 2020 2:38:30 AM
Sol says nothing, but has a slightly concerned look on his face, his lips pressed together after a few moments he visibly relaxes, but it seems more through force of will than through what he's seeing.
He says nothing as they continue on their way of deciding council members, he doesn't wish to get involved since his ideas are apparently not what this settlement is looking for.
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 June 10th, 2020 7:39:12 AM
Grindar continues to keep his thoughts to himself. At this point he would rather be facing the mutant horde again than sitting in this meeting.
Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 44/44; CMD: 15 d20+2=8 ; d20+2=7 ; Wednesday June 10th, 2020 9:18:32 AM
Caelwyn tries to keep a smile from his face as he feels the frustration growing among his friends. They were not used to this sort of thing, while Caelwyn had spent a bit of time learning about the nuances of politics. It would be settled soon enough.
He approves of Taggert's intentions, but forces himself to remain passive when Akuno's name is mentioned. She is an outsider, sure, and probably makes sense to lead the vote. He just hopes she won't do anything too ridiculous this time...
'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 18/12/16 - CMD 17 d20+10=13 ; Wednesday June 10th, 2020 1:22:43 PM
Perception fails. Sense motive autopasses.
'Lil ain't sure about people bein' asked to vote out in the open like this. A person's gotta be able to choose their vote without worryin' about repercussions. The room's already sick'a this, though. She decides it's best to address it for future elections.
She's also pretty sure the fact that Broag wants to be in power means he shouldn't be. 'Lil ain't lived much, but she's learned the folks what want to lead, usually shouldn't.
She notices some confusion about Taggert's suggestion. "Good idea. I'm sure Sprocket would keep things fair, but folks who are up for vote shouldn't be in charge of countin'em." She has no doubt Akuno will take things as serious as they need to be. This room could use a little less seriousness, frankly...
BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 d20+10=16 ; d20=2 ; Wednesday June 10th, 2020 4:03:03 PM
Bigby taps his claws while waiting. great another person who wants power. He's going to be a problem, Bigby thinks to himself. But sometimes things have to play out how they need to play out. He just wished this process would hurry up.
Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 27/27 -- Aewen: AC 11 -- HP 13/13 d20+6=9 ; d20+4=13 ; Wednesday June 10th, 2020 4:31:40 PM
Thorondir fidgets with the hem of his cloak as he sits and listens to what is happening. Clearly these people will do what they want, why he is here has him a bit confused. The power struggle seems like it will work out, as they always seem to do. Though rarely for the good. Luckily, Thorondir has his own interests though and waits patiently.
Akuno Neko (Ken) AC 15 / CMD 17 - 20/20 Hp d20=19 ; d20=7 ; d20+9=13 Wednesday June 10th, 2020 5:53:00 PM
Akuno pops awake suddenly, her daydream of fish and yarn so quickly interrupted. Did someone say her name? What was happening? Something about leading a vote?
Climbing to the top of her floating disk, if only to be seen better, she takes stock of the room.
Perception at -1: 18 Sense Motive at -1: 6
"Well, of course I can be partial. The Lady Akuno won't be accused of being anything other than a most moderate moderator!" She takes a moment to consider the repercussions of everything going on. She was asked to do two things, collect votes - and make sure everyone has a chance to say their piece.
"We have our list of six nominees. Broag doesn't want to be on the council, despite being nominated." She gives him a big dumb smile. "Is it because of our chat the other day about you being a good follower if you aren't made leader?" She scratches behind her ear. "If so, it's mighty honest of you to defer to others. Public service is always made better by people who serve others instead of themselves." Akuno wets her lips, then says proudly. "You've got the cleanest beard this side of Burfell, Master Broag!"
Diplomacy: 13 (If needed to avoid offense, or to try and convince him to be honest in his motivations)
She uses a prestidigitation spell to make temporary writing that everyone can see. She writes down the candidate names.
"Remember! A council member is someone who you think can represent a number of people in the community by making the rules that people want to see. It should be someone who connects with others. A councilperson isn't always the best leader, instead they should strive to be the best representative of the people they are working for. So if you want someone to help you catch a fish, vote for the fisherman. If you want someone to help you build a wall, vote for the builder. This council should represent your needs."
She takes a big breath.
"So first, as Taggert asked, does anyone have anything to say before you vote? It can be anything, as long as its helpful! Please take turns! Lets start with the closest to me, then work our way around!"
DM Steve -- Rattledam -- Module 4, day 4, evening Wednesday June 10th, 2020 9:00:37 PM
Before Akuno is done saying her piece, Broag is up and shouting. It isn't clear exactly what he calls her -- the dwarves later claim it meant "insolent piece of fluff" -- but it breaks up the meeting for a while. During this time, Gruff gets up and says something to one of Broag's friends, then leaves.
It is a few minutes before people get settled again to listen to what's going on. His friends manage to calm Broag down, although it looks for a while as if he's about to leave. Akuno is forced to repeat her advice on what to look for in a candidate before the speaking starts.
The speaking boils down to a number of people speaking for or against the candidates. It gets repetitive. Jarl is a well respected farmer. His no-nonsense attitude and willingness to talk have endeared more than offended. Smithera is widely liked, and has been de facto leader as long as the Sentinels have been gone. She quells an undercurrent of thought that if she isn't elected she would be mayor by saying that she would rather be setting agendas than administering them -- she doesn't see mayor as a better role. Sprocket was the leader of his hometown before the bloodgrass destroyed it, and would already have been here too if he hadn't convinced people to follow Smithera instead. Nicephorus is a centaur, respected for his knowledge but sometimes a bit temperamental. Everyone knows Freakshow, who has been helping the community since they arrived and a big part of how they have prospered. Kuiper is the best hunter in town, and quick to help anyone.
About half an hour through the discussion, Gruff returns with a small crate. This places him last in speaking -- a couple of hours later. "I have here enough ingots for everyone to take one. I've also got a box and a barrel. If we set them behind a covered table, people can walk past and drop an ingot in one or the other without worrying about offending anyone. But we'll have to count each candidate before moving to the next."
After a bit more debate, that gets general agreement. Gruff hands out ingots to everyone, including Caelwyn, 'Lil, Grindar, Sol, and Bigby. There is no debate about including everyone who made the trip from Hook City, and Grindar has proven himself consistently ever since he helped the first settlers escape the halflings.
It is decided that the barrel is a no vote, and the box a yes vote.
===== This post, you may speak on behalf of one or more candidates, or not, knowing that your opinons carry weight. Please state how you vote.
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 June 11th, 2020 6:02:34 AM
Due to the fact that Grindar would rather see Smithira as the mayor, he doesn't vote for her. he easily votes for Freakshow and Sprocket, but since he hasn't had a chance to get to know them, he struggles to make his 3rd choice, but in the end he chooses Kuiper. He based this decision on two things, 1) he is a fellow hunter, and as such the half-orc feels he can better understand his thoughts, and more importantly, 2) his reputation of helping others is something that Grindar admires.
Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour Thursday June 11th, 2020 8:42:07 AM
Sol thinks for some time, but also thinks that it would be a good idea to make Smithera as Mayor. He also votes for Jarl, Sprocket and Freakshow. He seems content with his choices, but doesn't say anything, as while his voice may carry weight, he doesn't have the eloquence to make his case well enough.
Akuno Neko (Ken) AC 15 / CMD 17 - 20/20 Hp d20=2 ; Thursday June 11th, 2020 11:02:43 AM
Akuno hums happily to herself and watches people drop their ingots. She keeps an eye out to make sure anyone isn't doing anything suspicious.
Perception -1: 1
For a few seconds anyways. When boredom creeps in, she starts using her prestidigitation spell to draw little fishes in the air.
'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 18/12/16 - CMD 17 Thursday June 11th, 2020 11:07:03 AM
'Lil puts her hand on Akuno's shoulder. It's not gentle. It's not painful either, but it's a steady hand, one that grips the recipient's attention.
"Dear, ya need to understand right now that what ya think you know about dwarves ain't right. Every time you've opened your mouth, you've managed to piss'em off. You aught to start treatin' them like people, not stereotypes."
She votes for Smithira, Freakshow, and Sprocket since Smithira she said she'd rather be on the council than mayor. She ain't got nothing against the rest, but she ain't got to know'em. She trusts those three to do the job right.
BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 Thursday June 11th, 2020 11:21:42 AM
Bigby votes Kuiper, Freakshow and Sprocket. Hopefully Smithira becomes mayor. Hopfeully this doesn't backfire he thinks. But hey Bigby wasn't one for thinking too long on decisions. Better to make it and live with a mistake than to live in fear of not making a decision.
Akuno Neko (Ken) AC 15 / CMD 17 - 20/20 Hp Thursday June 11th, 2020 12:25:17 PM
Her smile never falters, nor does she stop drawing fish with her spell.
"I imagine that it has less to do with a beard reference..", she says, a bit cooly, "...and more to do with putting the thought in peoples heads that he fancies himself too good for the council, but worthy of being the mayor."
She lets the implication hang between the two of them. 'Lil had made her distaste for Broag in a leadership role known, nearly ver batim in what Akuno had said aloud. It was up to 'Lil to decide whether she thought the faux pas was intentional or not.
Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 44/44; CMD: 15 Thursday June 11th, 2020 11:15:13 PM
Caelwyn would rather see Smithera as mayor, so he does not vote for her. She may not want it, but she seems like the person for the job. He also has a sneaking suspicion that Broag has declined to run for council in the hopes of being made mayor...something he is not sure is a good idea.
He casts his votes for Jarl, Sprocket, and Freakshow. He feels that these three have cool heads and proper temperaments for this position.
He adds his own words to Akuno in a low voice, building on what 'Lil said. "Akuno, I am sure you mean well, but that was most unwise. Speaking out in public like that about a very sensitive, private discussion we had with Broag? It's no wonder he was upset, it sounded as though you were insulting him and mocking him in front of everyone. If this settlement is to survive, we must be as united as possible...and making comments like that will only split us apart. You must learn to be more calculated in what you say. I don't meant this unkindly, but you have to do better in the future - it could cause serious problems."
Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 27/27 -- Aewen: AC 11 -- HP 13/13 Thursday June 11th, 2020 11:28:33 PM
Thorondir watches with minimal interest. People tend to put their trust in those who say the right things, only to have the realization that power corrupts and the leaders only build their own coffers. When he sees folks reprimanding Akuno, he says "You are doing fine, folks that can't take straight talk probably aren't meant to lead anyway. You just be you and it will all work out."
DM Steve -- Rattledam -- Module 4, day 4, evening d20=6 ; d20=11 ; d20=2 ; d20=5 ; d20=20 ; d20=18 ; Friday June 12th, 2020 12:17:02 AM
There's a bit of grumbling at the tie between Freakshow and Kuiper, because it means going through all this again.
"Not at all," says Sprocket. "I'll be going with the Sentinels soon to look in on the boat that's being built. Freakshow and Kuiper can both serve while I'm gone, and we'll sort it out when I'm back." When people still question this result, Sprocket points out that over half the people voted for each of them, and he wasn't that far ahead. Eventually, it's agreed.
As people stream out, it's already late. Sprocket approaches the party, "I can see some of you are already itching to be away, but this may delay me a few days. Is that all right?"
'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 18/12/16 - CMD 17 Friday June 12th, 2020 12:12:51 PM
'Lil sighs. "At what cost, Akuno?" is all she has to add to the matter.
She's happy that folks listened to Smithira's wishes and respected them. With those three...four?...on the council, they'd pick a good mayor. 'Lil was fine waiting a few days so long as she didn't have'ta fill them with politics.
Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 27/27 -- Aewen: AC 11 -- HP 13/13 Friday June 12th, 2020 9:54:48 PM
Glad that he is not involved, Thorondir just waits for it all to end.
Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour Saturday June 13th, 2020 6:47:18 AM
Sol seems satisfied with the outcome, but he says nothing, as he is happy to let the settlers figure out exactly what they want to do now.
DM Steve -- Rattledam -- Module 4, day 8, morning Saturday June 13th, 2020 9:58:28 AM
A few days pass without event as the Sentinels stay away from politics for a while.
Bigby, Thorondir, and sometimes Grindar pass it by hunting -- all three are invited to join the village's hunters, although Bigby and Thorondir tend to go off on their own. There are almost ten hunters and twice as many farmers who work full time on feeding the place. With the three druids helping, they are able to build a little surplus despite the occasional loss of Kuiper.
At first, 'Lil and Caelwyn get questions from the forming council, but those taper off quickly. Perhaps council members sense a lack of enthusiasm for the subject. They both still hear enough to learn the major decisions being discussed. Plus, everyone will be able to learn any specifics from Sprocket once they're travelling.
Akuno is left to her own devices. It becomes clear very quickly that Freakshow and the entire dwarvish population of the place dislike her. Taggert quickly becomes wrapped up in council business and starts spending less time around her. Perhaps the surprise is the slight scolding that Ahyoka gives Freakshow about Akuno one day, but Akuno can't follow all the talk about hands, sun, shadows, piggies, and walking.
Happy to have someone who can keep up with him, Needle puts Sol to work. They spend the days writing notes and making sketches as Needle tries to figure out how to explain some of the things that he just takes for granted from his upbringing to people who are well-meaning but sunbaked.
Then, at dinner a couple of days later, Sprocket says he's ready to leave in the morning if everyone else is.
When morning comes, Sprocket is ready at sun-up. Taggert is also there to see everyone off. Bigby and Grindar are sure they can retrace the path the party followed on the previous trip.
=====
Please let me know how the group is arranged while walking through the grass, including Sprocket and the animals. Remember that it is difficult terrain for all but the druids.
Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 44/44; CMD: 15 Sunday June 14th, 2020 10:39:35 PM
Caelwyn readies himself for the journey, silently communing with Domi before they set out. He offers to take the rear of the column, as he has sharp eyes and solid armor, and can hopefully keep them safe in case of an ambush.
Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 27/27 -- Aewen: AC 11 -- HP 13/13 Sunday June 14th, 2020 11:01:02 PM
Thorondir is glad that the meetings are finally over and they will have a chance to get out into the Sargrass. "Well, it seems you have yourselves a name for your group, Sargrass Sentinels is correct? Do you still not have a leader, even for a journey that may prove perilous? Who do I talk to about how I may help? In case it isn't clear, my companion is Aewen the eagle that is circling above us. At least once a day, I like to wildshape into an eagle and join her. We are able to see much from up high. I can do it for about 4 hours at a time, and can do it twice before it requires some rest for me. I can also walk through the Sargrass without hinderance, and I can do so quietly without leaving a trace. I also have a few things I can do if we meet with hostility, but I'm not built for front line combat. Please let me know who is organizing this outing and I will try and coordinate with her."
Thorondir will do as requested from the leader. If no leader emerges, he will fly in the mornings with Aewen and walk during the middle of the day, typically behind the group staying as quiet as possible. The evenings he will return to the sky again before they camp.
'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 18/12/16 - CMD 17 Sunday June 14th, 2020 11:10:22 PM
'Lil figures Cae or Grindar will take front. She's right behind in second position.
Akuno Neko (Ken) AC 15 / CMD 17 - 20/20 Hp Monday June 15th, 2020 2:42:55 AM
Akuno sets herself in the middle.
"I've also got plenty of servants to help me in a fight. Hopefully it doesn't come down to that! I've never even been in one before." Of course, there's the issue of walking through grass taller than she is. "Ney, ney, does anyone know how long we plan to travel each day? I need to get my magic planned out right."
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 June 15th, 2020 5:39:14 AM
“As in the past, I will take point, with Llew at my side”, Grindar offers, “If Bigby and Wolfgang wish to join me as they have before, that would be fine, though I won’t speak for my canine friends”.
OOC... I am without a computer until this weekend, due to the fact that I left my laptop in the backseat of my car, and my wife took it to spend the week with her daughter. Please bare with me this week as I post on my phone.
BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 Monday June 15th, 2020 12:49:46 PM
Bigby and Wolfgang happily join Grindar and Llew leading the front or nearby. Bigby nods to the idea of Aewen bing our eyes from above. As for leader, Bigby knew that wasn't for him.
Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 44/44; CMD: 15 Monday June 15th, 2020 10:49:22 PM
Caelwyn readies his shield and trident, prepared to listen and watch for any sign of trouble from behind.
DM Steve -- Rattledam -- Module 4, day 10, evening d20=9 ; Monday June 15th, 2020 11:39:28 PM
The morning passes pleasantly. As the day wears on, however, everyone is reminded how still and stifling the grasses are. Rattledam was in an area where the grasses don't grow, and at least had breezes. Here there are none. It is a hot, miserable day of pushing through the grass. And although nothing sizeable menaces the Sentinels, the flies are out in full force. It's as if any sweat that doesn't evaporate is an oasis to the insects. No biting flies, but many small, distracting ones.
The trip back to the Stone Temple should take 10 or 12 days, from what folks recall. The first few, aside from being miserable, are uneventful. Everyone is tired of bugs in their eyes. By the evening of the third day out, there are occassional gimpses of the mountains through the grasses, still far away.
As evening comes, Grindar and Bigby see a strange collection of grasses up ahead that are bulbous at their bases, six of the plants arranged in a neat circle. Each bulb is bigger than most of the party members. Before long, everyone is aware of it.
Knowledge, Nature -- DC 10: Highlight to display spoiler: {This is bulbgrass. The party has encountered it before. The bulbs make a nice shelter. Many of the creatures of the Sargrass are repelled by the smell of them, so travellers use them for relatively safe camps. Freakshow has said that Harvesters plant it around their villages.}
"What an odd looking plant," says Sprocket.
=====
Should have asked earlier about a watch rotations, too. Here's what I gathered for a marching order from yesterday's posts: Marching Order. Let me know if it needs correction.
Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour d20+5=17 ; Tuesday June 16th, 2020 2:37:59 AM
((OoC: Yeah Sol would be in the middle))
Sol, is exhausted and sweating profusely, leading him to be a haven for the annoying insects, so he seems to constantly be swatting at flies, both real and possibly imagined.
"This is remarkable difficult..." he says between laborious breaths. "I do not remember it being this difficult the last tame we made this trip..."
Even though he is not carrying very much, as Grindar carries most of his belongings, it is still clearly very difficult for Sol and his very slight frame.
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 d20+6=21 ; Tuesday June 16th, 2020 6:43:55 AM
Knowledge Nature 21
“Ahh bulb grass, this would be a good place to make camp!” Grindar says, “Most creatures here are repulsed by their scent, and if I remember correctly, Freakshow once said his people plant it around their villages for protection!” The half-orc is drenched in his own sweat, and more then a bit tired, he joking says to his fellow Druids, “I thought walking through stuff like this was supposed to be easy for us, or am I just not experienced enough?”
Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 27/27 -- Aewen: AC 11 -- HP 13/13 d20+4=22 ; Tuesday June 16th, 2020 1:44:06 PM
Knowledge Nature 22
"Yes, this is bulb grass." he says to Grindar. "It will make a good place to rest tonight."
Thorondir calls Aewen down to him, and the bird settles on the edge of a large bulb of grass.
"The trick in walking through this grass is to not fight it, move with it and you will find it is easier. It is also useful to ask the plants to let you pass as well."
Looking around at the group and the lack of leadership he adds: "Do you not feel that the lack of someone coordinating the group movement through treacherous terrain may lead to peril? I have offered my services and asked where you would like me and I have had no response. Now it is again time to sleep, and nobody is coordinating the watch. Aewen and I can be self sufficient, but I would like to be of service as I was requested to do. Unless I hear different, I will rest for a time as the sun sets while Aewen watches over me. Then, Aewen will rest and I will keep watch. That should provide us both with the rest needed. I am happy to deviate from this if you have a request."
Thorondir finds a place within the bulb grass and makes a spot for himself and Aewen.
BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 d20+10=20 ; Tuesday June 16th, 2020 2:09:15 PM
knowledge nature 20. "nice. Time for rest. I"m not the leader Thorondir, but your services helping us through treacherous terrain is always welcome." Bigby and Wolfgang always take midnight as before. When midnight watch hits, they howl at the moon.
'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 18/12/16 - CMD 17 d20=6 ; Tuesday June 16th, 2020 3:30:38 PM
'Lil looks at the plants. "They supposed to grow in a circle like this, or ya think something planted them this way." She ponders Thorondir's advice about asking plants to let'em pass, then wonders if maybe the plants just wanted to grow in a circle.
She ain't real on board with his talk of leading, though. "Think it's best we all stay equal. Yea, it's time to camp, but how long do ya think it's gonna take to set a watch schedule. Besides, if I wanted to follow someone's orders, I woulda joined Hook City's guard, not come to this place." 'Lil usually takes last watch.
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 June 16th, 2020 6:36:23 PM
Grindar isn’t fussy about when he takes his watch so he says, “I’ll fill in where ever needed, I have no preference of time, when it comes to night watch, but unless someone can think of a better time slot for me, I’ll take the watch just before Lil”.
Akuno Neko (Ken) AC 15 / CMD 17 - 20/20 Hp Tuesday June 16th, 2020 7:01:00 PM
Akuno spends most of her travels on her floating disk, sledding along happily behind her Unseen Servants. From time to time she chastises one about not avoiding the bigger bumps, but she's mostly pleasant.
She regulates her temperature with judicial application of Roses Temperature Control. To some, it might be a waste of magic. To her, it's practical. Princesses shouldn't have to sweat, and her lacy dresses are heavy.
Regarding watch rotations? "It might be best to pair me with someone who can keep a good eye on things. I spend most of my time focusing on the things I can control around me, and I'm not great at noticing what's going on around me." Translation? Her perception score is a -1. Her servants can help her partner though!
Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 27/27 -- Aewen: AC 11 -- HP 13/13 Tuesday June 16th, 2020 11:38:54 PM "You are welcome to keep watch with me." Thorondir says to Akuno.
DM Steve -- Rattledam -- Module 4, day 10, evening d20=20 ; d20=6 ; d20=1 ; Tuesday June 16th, 2020 11:46:02 PM
The group sets up camp among the bulbgrass. Aewen, Llew, and Wolfgang seem a bit subdued around the stuff, which does have a distinctive aroma. But they follow their companions to the campsite willingly enough. After camp is set up, Sprocket makes an offhand comment that causes everyone to realize that there are fewer bugs here, too.
The night passes quietly until the third watch, when Llew gives a start. He's tense for a few moments, then relaxes. Shortly after that he's softly purring to himself.
Morning comes without event. Everyone agrees over breakfast that it was better than the previous nights since leaving Rattledam. Not that that's saying much.
Grindar and Bigby: Highlight to display spoiler: {After whatever breakfast conversation there is, please provide perception rolls for yourselves and your animals.}
===== OOC: I didn't realize that there was a link to a watch roster on the Sargrass Plains game page in the Woldepedia. Or that it was last updated prior to finding Rattledam. If someone wants to upate it again, that's great. For now I'll use: 1st watch -- Thorondir, Caelwyn (assumed), Sol (assumed), Akuno (maybe) 2nd watch -- Thorondir, Bigby, Wolfgang 3rd watch -- Aewen, Grindar, Llew 3rd watch -- Aewen, 'Lil, Sprocket
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 d20+9=23 ; d20+6=7 ; Wednesday June 17th, 2020 6:42:16 AM
Grindar eats his breakfast in relative silence, Llew’s mannerisms from the night before has him perplexed, finally he casts Speak with Animals, and asks Llew what it was all about. He decides to keep an eye out for anything unusual, and asks Llew to do likewise, however, Llew is distracted by a blade of grass moving in the breeze, and like a true pussy cat, he can’t help himself, and must play with it, batting it back and forth with his paws.
Grindar’s perception 23 Llew’s perception 7
Akuno Neko (Ken) AC 15 / CMD 17 - 20/20 Hp d20=13 ; Wednesday June 17th, 2020 11:02:55 AM
Akuno is happy to partner with Thorondir for a little while. At first, his direct interpretations of what she said bothered her, until she realized she is also a direct person. He also didn't judge her excesses really, he just noted them for what they were. And after a whole day of getting scolded for Akuno being Akuno, his support the day before was more appreciated than she let on.
During breakfast, she pokes around at whatever Llew is watching. She hadn't paid much attention to the pretty kitty before, but he was amazing to watch. He was also bigger than her. She sniffs the air near the big cat, and her tail flicks back and forth. She looks back at Grindar. He had been pretty even handed with her so far. She wasn't sure he would mind her getting to know Llew, but asking would be awkward and getting yelled out would be worse. So instead, when she thinks he isn't watching, she rapid fires a piece of trail jerky from her pack in front of Llew, and watches to see if he likes it.
'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 18/12/16 - CMD 17 Wednesday June 17th, 2020 11:51:12 AM
'Lil ain't no nature person, but she wonders if the stuff in those bulbs could be taken with them. Maybe it could spread like some kinda ointment? She asks Thorondir, figuring he'd know.
"So, that bulb grass. Ya think if we keep some with us it'd keep the bugs away? If nothing else, we should harvest some to take back to Rattledam with us...if it'll keep. Afraid I don't know much about any of that."
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 June 17th, 2020 1:10:31 PM
Grindar watches Akuno out of the corner of his eye, watches her slyly give Llew some jerky, and watches Llew devour the dried meat. A chuckle begins to brew, until he has no choice but to let it out, in a full on laugh, finally he says, “Llew won’t bite, and neither will I, he’s a pack mate, don’t be afraid to get to know him, we could all stand to know one another better!”
Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 27/27 -- Aewen: AC 11 -- HP 13/13 Wednesday June 17th, 2020 1:55:55 PM "Well, I know what bulb grass is and a bit about it. I'm not too keen on the nature of plants though, my interest lies mostly with the animal kingdom." Thorondir says in response to 'Lil. "I can check to see if it is poisonous though."
Thorondir casts Detect Poison and checks the bulb grass. If it is not poisonous, he will then:
"Mostly if you don't have the lore you can learn a lot about plants from careful observations though." Thorondir takes a knife and makes a small incision into a bulb. He takes a small pea-sized amount and smears it onto his arm with the knife blade. "We will find out soon if it causes a skin reaction I suppose."
If no reaction, he will look for a few small bulbs to take along, trying to get the root as well so they can be planted.
BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 d20+11=16 ; d20+5=21 ; d20+11=17 ; Wednesday June 17th, 2020 3:04:34 PM
perception for Bigby 16, perception for Wolfgang 21.
Bigby and Wolfgang eat breakfast as well and look at the grass where Llew is observing. "Seems Llews found a friend he says to Akuno and Grindar." The pack has grown into something he was very comfortable with: anmial lovers.
Bigby wonders if the cutting the bulb idea will work. "It seems worth a shot." He nods at Thorondir and 'Lil. knowledge nature for the bulb question.
Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 44/44; CMD: 15 Wednesday June 17th, 2020 11:10:20 PM
Caewlyn is happy to participate in the first watch. He winces as Thorondir smears the plant on his arm, hoping it won't cause a negative reaction, and chuckles at the interaction between Grindar, Akuno, and Llew.
DM Steve -- Rattledam -- Module 4, day 10, evening Wednesday June 17th, 2020 11:44:46 PM Grindar: Speak with animals: Highlight to display spoiler: {When you speak with Llew, he says he heard something last night. But it was out there and not getting close. And he was enjoying things.}
Thorondir: Detect poison: The bulbs are poisonous. You would not want to eat them. Wisdom check DC 20: Highlight to display spoiler: {Eating the bulb is more likely to make you sick (nauseated or worse) than to kill you. Prolonged, direct contact with the sap might also have some effect.}
Bigby and Thorondir: Add a Perception check and a Know Nature check, combined DC 42: Highlight to display spoiler: {If the checks are successful, the character is able to find one six-lobed bulb of a suitable size to carry.}
While the druids fuss over Llew and the bulbgrass, the rest of the party packs up and gets ready to go. (Ok, Akuno might be doing more fussing over Llew than packing.) And 'Lil, at least, is curious about what her friends determine. Caelwyn seems more worried about it.
Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour Thursday June 18th, 2020 2:45:57 AM
Sol wakes up late, as usual, eats some breakfast while packing, and watches what the others do with the bulb grass, he begins making notes in his diary.
"Perhaps we should just bring a bulb with us, and see how long it lasts? That way, if we decide to bring some back to Rattledam we know how often we would need to send out parties to collect more if we plan on using it as a defensive measure."
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 d20+9=13 ; d20+6=20 ; Thursday June 18th, 2020 6:44:24 AM
Grindar packs his things, scratches Llew behind the ears, and takes his position at the head of the party he keeps his eyes on the horizon, and instructs Llew to do likewise.
Grindar’s perception 13 Llew’s perception 20
Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 27/27 -- Aewen: AC 11 -- HP 13/13 d20+3=5 ; d20+4=23 ; d20+6=9 ; Thursday June 18th, 2020 2:31:33 PM
Looking at the bulb grass Thorondir puts his knife away. "It does appear to be poisonous, best not to cut into it. I don't know if it is only toxic if you eat it or if it can harm you otherwise. The fact that animals avoid it should tell you something."
Thorondir looks around trying to find a small bulb to collect, but it seems like they have all grown too large to carry.
Wisdom check 5 Perception + Knowledge nature = 32
Akuno Neko (Ken) AC 15 / CMD 17 - 20/20 Hp Thursday June 18th, 2020 3:30:38 PM
After being encouraged by Grindar, Akuno spends quite a bit of time kneeling by the big cat, her lace and underskirts spread out as evenly as possible over the grasses. She pokes him from time to time, and reads him stories featuring cats or shows him pictures from her picture book. At some point, she asks him aloud how he would feel about wearing a vest made for a cat as big as himself.
When its time to pack up camp, Akuno finds herself facing a choice. She mumbles to herself. "..would be easier... two servants? ... maybe I should... might cut my hands! .. grrr..!" At some point she reaches a decision, and starts picking up trash and helping clear camp, though she holds it all at full arms length, like it might try and bite her.
BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 d20+11=28 ; d20+11=27 ; Thursday June 18th, 2020 4:00:15 PM
perception: 28, knowledge nature 27 +55. Bigby points out that there is a 6 lobed bulb that we should be able to carry with us. Bigby goes over to pick it out and asks Thorondir if he would do the honor of looking after it. "Looks like we got one," he says to the party.
'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 18/12/16 - CMD 17 Thursday June 18th, 2020 5:49:20 PM
"Ah well. Still think it'd be good to plant some 'round New Rattledam to help keep critters away. Maybe some got seeds on'em?"
Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 44/44; CMD: 15 Thursday June 18th, 2020 11:34:42 PM
"Perhaps another time we could make a large scale effort to replant some of these bulbs? Maybe once the ship is built? As you say, they would be a useful natural defense..."
DM Steve -- Rattledam -- Module 4, day 11, morning Friday June 19th, 2020 12:12:59 AM Bigby and Thorondir wrap the bulb and safely stow it away. Sol, 'Lil and Caelwyn debate the benefit, agreeing the bulbs would be good around Rattledam but envisioning different timing. Sprocket also seems interested. Akuno helps out. And Grindar gets ready to lead the group through another day. When everything is prepared, and everyone is ready, they set out in the order they've become accustomed to these last few days.
The party has not gone far before Grindar shouts out a warning, and Wolfgang lets out a growl. Bigby stops short, but Llew is distracted and walks right into the area Grindar has noticed. Everyone else is far enough back. Llew has walked straight into a large but nearly invisible web, and gotten tangled.
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 d20+10=25 ; d8+7=10 ; d20+9=25 ; Friday June 19th, 2020 6:37:18 AM
Seeing his companion walk head long into the web, Grindar rushes to his side, and before he begins trying to cut him free, he takes a good look around looking for the creator of the web. (perception 25) If he sees an enemy he will lash out with a two handed chop, if not he will attack the web. Hits AC 25 for 10 damage.
Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: None d20+1=7 ; Friday June 19th, 2020 8:37:38 AM
Sol, seeing this ruckus immediately brings his staff up and into a defensive position, and starts looking around to see if he can spot what might have caused the webbing.
((Perception 7))
However, being so distracted by his thoughts previously, he notices very little.
Akuno Neko (Ken) AC 15 / CMD 17 - 20/20 Hp d20=5 ; Friday June 19th, 2020 1:31:12 PM
Akuno helps Grindar search, keeping an eye out as best she can. Admittedly, that's never been her strength. (Aid another, fail. Result 4).
She reaches into her Handy Haversack, and calls forward both a tanglefoot bag and a mage armor scroll. Readied Action: Read Mage Armor scroll if an enemy appears.
Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 27/27 -- Aewen: AC 11 -- HP 13/13 d20+6=11 ; d20+5=11 ; Friday June 19th, 2020 3:15:57 PM
Upon hearing the shout, Thorondir wild shapes into an eagle and joins Aewen up in the air. He circles around the place that Llew is trapped in the web, looking for the spider that created it.
Thorondir's Perception 11 Aewen's Perception 11
'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 18/12/16 - CMD 17 d20+6=24 ; d8+3=11 ; Friday June 19th, 2020 3:50:18 PM
'Lil's got a stabby weapon and a smashin' weapon. She don't have a slashy weapon, so she'll leave it to her dudes to slice Llew free.
She grabs Maya from her back and stands ready to stab anything with more than 4 legs.
Readied attack: Hit AC 24 for 11 damage
BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 d20+11=15 ; d20+7=22 ; d2+3=5 ; d20+4=10 ; d6+1=6 ; Friday June 19th, 2020 5:48:55 PM
perception 15. Bigby will move up and use his claws to help out Llew out of the web. 22 claw att. dmg 5. Wolgang 10 bite att. dmg if hit 6.
DM Steve -- Middle of Nowhere -- Module 4, day 11, morning d20+6=10 ; d20+6=16 ; d20+6=16 ; d4=2 ; d4=4 ; Friday June 19th, 2020 11:34:49 PM
Llew's struggles in the web attract the attention of a number of spiders that quickly rush to the movement. The spiders are too far into the webs for anyone but 'Lil to reach this round, so Grindar and Bigby are left freeing Llew. Bigby finds the webbing too stretchy to damage, but Grindar is able to clear it away with a mighty swing. Llew is free.
Akuno finds her two items, and can use them next round. Sol guardedly looks for the source of trouble. Caelwyn guards the rear. Sprocket goes digging in his pack.
'Lil stabs one of the spiders where it sits in the webs, wounding it severely and causing it to flee. There are five remaining. Three of the spiders attack Llew, two successfully.
Llew takes 6 HP damage and must make two fortitude saves vs DC 14.
Here is a map of what the party can see at ground level among the tall grasses.
Thorondir: Highlight to display spoiler: {From above you can see that the web stretches in a broken circle around the bulbgrass where the party spent the night. There must be more spiders than the party is dealing with.}
Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: None d20+2=17 ; d3=2 ; Saturday June 20th, 2020 2:55:01 AM
Sol is going to try and cast Ray of Frost at the spiders nearest Llew, but that Grindar can't reach.
17 to hit, 3 points of Cold damage.
Sol does a rather uncharacteristic gesture of celebration as his Ray of Frost seems to connect, clearly he's happy to finally hit something rather than miss, as is what usually happens...
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 d20+4=10 ; d20+4=19 ; d20+2=6 ; d20+2=9 ; d20+2=13 ; d6+1=5 ; d20+8=21 ; d20+8=22 ; d8+5=8 ; d8+5=9 ; Sunday June 21st, 2020 3:16:03 PM
Llew's fortitude saves 10, and 19 Failed
Llew roars in pain as the spider's fangs sink into his flesh. The lion will make a 5ft step to 22,K, then will lash out at the spider at 22,J in a full round attack left claw 6, right claw 9, bite 13. I assume the claws both miss, but bite does 5 damage if it hits.
Grindar will also perform a full round attack against 22,J. Primary hits AC 21 for 8 damage, Offhand hits AC 22 for 9 damage.
Akuno Neko (Ken) AC 15 / CMD 17 - 20/20 Hp Sunday June 21st, 2020 3:42:59 PM
Akuno watches the spiders emerge and start swarming with wide eyes. She points a shaky hand at the mass of bugs. "G..g..gross! No way!" She takes a nervous step backwards, and considers the prospects of fleeing on foot. Alone. In the grass.
She turns back in time to see the spiders start biting Llew, and that is not okay. Finding her nerve, Akuno drops her two retrieved items, and barks a command to her unseen servant. "Pick those up!"
She starts a spell, droning in the long monotonous language of the school of conjuration, she begins casting a summoning spell.
------- Akuno: Drop Items. (Free action) Akuno: Start casting summon monster 2 spell. (Full round action.) Akuno: 5 foot step to M20. (Or not? Are we in difficult terrain? If so 5 foots aren't allowed.)
Unseen Servant: Picks up Akuno's dropped items. (Double move.)
Bigby and Wolfgagng five foot step to where Grindar was to attack the spider that Grindar is attacking. Claw att: 15, claw attack 12. dmg: if 15 hits: 4. Wolfgang bite: 24, dmg: 3.
Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 44/44; CMD: 15 d20+2=10 ; Sunday June 21st, 2020 11:24:39 PM
Caelwyn is unable to move close enough to engage, and he is worried about more spiders attacking from behind. He moves closer to his companions in front, looking to help with his trident when possible, but also keeping an eye open for more spiders.
Perception 10
Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 27/27 -- Aewen: AC 11 -- HP 13/13 d20+3=18 ; d20+3=22 ; d20+3=6 ; d4=4 ; d4=3 ; Sunday June 21st, 2020 11:55:05 PM
Thorondir has spent so much time in eagle form that movements are second nature for him. He drops towards the spiders, but instead of going in to strike he pulls up and makes some motions with his talons.
Aewen drops fast on the spider at 17I. Talon hit AC 18 damage 4, hit AC 22 damage 3, Bite hit AC 6
-------------- Using Natural Spell Thorondir casts Entangle centered on 27C (These are 5' squares and 7' on diagonal?)
'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 18/12/16 - CMD 17 d20+6=25 ; d8+3=9 ; d20+6=23 ; d20+6=20 ; d8+3=7 ; d8+3=10 ; Monday June 22nd, 2020 4:06:04 PM
'Lil figures Llew can take a few more hits before she needs to worry 'bout healing him. Killing these spiders would do more to save his life than playing catch up while they bite'im.
It's another solid hit, hopefully driving another one off.
Attack spider at I20 - Hit AC 25 for 9 damage.
AoO if appropriate: Hit AC 23 for 7 damage and AC 20 for 10 damage.
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