DM Steve -- Middle of Nowhere -- Module 4, day 11, morning d20+4=24 ; d20+4=15 ; d6=2 ; d20+2=19 ; d20+2=5 ; d4=4 ; d2=1 ; Monday June 22nd, 2020 10:43:14 PM
The Sentinels begin to make the spiders regret attacking.
Llew fights back but, suddenly a little wobbly, misses. Grindar, Bigby, and Wolfgang combine their attacks on the same target to leave it nearly obliterated. Sol and 'Lil target the same spider, causing it to flee in an attempt to escape its wounds. Aewen also attacks a spider, which retreats as well.
Thorondir casts a spell; the grasses on the far side of the web, and some within it, begin writhing and twisting. Two spiders that were in the entangled area hasten out of it as the plants start moving. Thorondir is confident there will be no more spiders coming from that side.
Two spiders remain, the rest having been killed or fleeing into denser patches of the webs. One attacks Llew, the other Grindar. Llew suffers another 4 points of damage. Grindar is untouched. Neither of the remaining spiders has been wounded.
Llew is shaky and has lost (1) strength. Llew must also make another fortitude save vs DC 14.
Aewen has entered the webs in order to attack, and must make an escape artist attempt vs DC 12 to avoid becoming entangled.
Akuno finishes casting her spell while her servants hold the items she had dropped.
Caelwyn watches for more spiders, aware that this is an opportunity for them to attack from an unexpected angle. Sprocket seems to have found whatever he was looking for.
Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 44/44; CMD: 15 d20+2=15 ; Monday June 22nd, 2020 11:36:01 PM
Caelwyn moves forward a bit more, menacing the spider on the left flank. But he does not go too far from Sol and Sprocket, seeing that Grindar, Lil, and the others seem to have the situation in hand. He keeps an eye out for flanking enemies.
Perception 15
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+12=14 ; d20+8=13 ; d20+8=20 ; d8+5=12 ; d8+5=9 ; Tuesday June 23rd, 2020 6:44:24 AM
Grindar offers Llew some encouragement with overcoming the spider's venom (hero point) and Llew barely makes the save (fort 14) Grindar then commands Llew to withdraw and the large cat retreats to 21,P, as the half-orc goes full round attack on the spider threatening him. primary hits AC 13 for 12 damage, and offhand hits AC 20 for 9 damage.
'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 18/12/16 - CMD 17 Tuesday June 23rd, 2020 12:02:08 PM
Using last roll from AoO that didn't happen.
'Lil pokes at the varmint attacking Llew, sure that Grindar can take care of himself a lot more than his critter can.
Attacking spider at I21, hitting AC 23 for 7 damage.
BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 d20+7=18 ; d2+3=5 ; d20+4=10 ; Tuesday June 23rd, 2020 2:30:41 PM "Nice job Thorindir with the entangle spell."
Bigby and Wolfgang moves over to k23 to assist Grindar in attacking and attacks. 18 att: 5dmg. Wolfgang bites 10.
Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 27/27 -- Aewen: AC 11 -- HP 13/13 d20+2=9 ; Tuesday June 23rd, 2020 3:32:54 PM
Again Thorondir swoops down and his eagle talons weave a spell (Entangle centered on I-9).
Aewen struggles to free herself, but is unable to do so. (Escape artist attempt = 9)
Thorondir as the eagle screeches at the party as he continues down towards Aewen, his screeches and whistles seem to be directed directly at Bigby. (plans on landing at H-17 when the time comes)
Akuno Neko (Ken) AC 15 / CMD 17 - 20/20 Hp d20+6=14 ; d3=1 ; d20+6=16 ; Tuesday June 23rd, 2020 9:18:44 PM
A small ball of fire, sentient, suddenly pops into being amongst the webs of the spiders. The fire elemental is given rudimentary directions. "Burn up the webs!", shouts Akuno. She hopes its flaming body is up to the task.
Akuno then shoots a small spatter of acid from her hands at the nearest spider. (Hit touch ac14. 1 damage.)
DM Steve -- Middle of Nowhere -- Module 4, day 11, morning d20+4=22 ; d20+4=24 ; Tuesday June 23rd, 2020 11:14:25 PM
Caelwyn moves forward a bit and continues to watch for trouble from other directions. Llew retreats from the spiders, while Grindar wounds another spider so badly that it tries to flee. Bigby claws it before it gets away, wounding it further. 'Lil attacks the other remaining spider, stabbing it neatly. Akuno flings a spell at the same spider. Thorondir has entangled the webs on the other side of the party, giving any spiders that might have been hidden there other things to worry about. Sprocket takes the chance to examine Llew's wounds.
The elemental Akuno summoned gleefully goes about following her command to burn the web. The web shrinks away rapidly as the flames get close, and the elemental is able to clear the space around it this round. Although the webs themselves do not burst into flame, there is a little sputtering from bits of debris that were caught in the web.
The spider fleeing from Grindar enters the entangled area, which hardly seems to slow it down so desperate is it to escape. The spider fleeing 'Lil is equally desperate.
Suddenly the Sentinels find themselves with no obvious enemies to deal with.
Aewen may make another check to escape the webs, this time at DC 16.
Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: None Wednesday June 24th, 2020 2:32:06 AM
Sol sighs, looking around, trying to keep an eye out for other natural traps or enemies who might be approaching.
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=29 ; d8+7=10 ; Wednesday June 24th, 2020 6:08:12 AM
Grindar looks around, now that the spiders have fled. upon seeing Aewen trapped in the webbing, he rushes over to try to assist. he know it is going to take some time to cut the bird out, but he goes to work with a two-handed swing. hitting AC 29 for 10 damage. He calls out in a soothing voice to the struggling bird, "Hold on I'm coming, and will have you out of there in no time"
Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 27/27 -- Aewen: AC 11 -- HP 13/13 d20+2=22 ; Wednesday June 24th, 2020 9:23:02 AM
Aewen struggles to free herself from the web as Grindar cuts a path towards her. At about that same time, Thorondir lands near her at H-17, and quickly reverts to his elven form. He reaches for his dagger when suddenly the eagle frees herself from the web and hops onto Thorondir's outstretched arm. Pulling bits of web from the feathers of his friend, Thorondir calls out to everyone: "This web encircles our bulb grass campsite. There are many more spiders than they few you saw. Quickly, follow Grindar's lead and cut a path through this web and lets be gone before my entangle spells are done."
He motions for everyone to come help cut the path. "Thanks Grindar for coming to the rescue of my friend, it will not be forgotten."
Looking towards Bigby he adds: "I tried to warn you from above but you could not understand my words."
Akuno Neko (Ken) AC 15 / CMD 17 - 20/20 Hp Wednesday June 24th, 2020 10:44:42 AM
"Why wait for Grindar? Follow the flames!"
Akuno's fire elemental clears another space, I-19. Hopefully this either sags the web, or gives them a clear path through should the group decide to flee.
Akuno herself grabs and picks up her Unseen Servant, then hurries through the gap. The unseen servant continues to hold her items. (To H-18)
'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 18/12/16 - CMD 17 d20+6=7 ; d20+6=24 ; d8+3=7 ; Wednesday June 24th, 2020 2:02:39 PM
'Lil's pumped. She's had fights where she ain't landed a single blow. This time she's stabbin' spiders left and right. Still, Thorondir's words cool her heels. Probably best to skedaddle.
If Akuno's fire elemental does burn the webs away (and hopefully stands aside to let'er pass), she takes up position on the other side of the webbing at F17. She holds there, making sure no one gets left behind.
Readied attack if any varmints get near: Hit AC 20 for 10 damage (from previous roll).
AoO: miss (nat 1), and hit AC 24 for 7 damage.
Note: 'Lil has combat reflexes. It's a big part of her toolkit, that's why I'm usually throwing up AoO just in case.
BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 d20+9=11 ; Wednesday June 24th, 2020 2:17:41 PM
Bigby takes in Thorodirs warning of more spiders. He looks to Bigby, "we need to learn to speak bird." Wolfgang gives Bigby an inquisitive look. Ready charge if spider comes near the party. 11 charge.
Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 44/44; CMD: 15 Wednesday June 24th, 2020 9:25:05 PM
"Go, go!" Caewlyn urges his companions forward. "I'll watch the rear, we have to get out of here!"
DM Steve -- Middle of Nowhere -- Module 4, day 11, morning d4=1 ; Wednesday June 24th, 2020 10:26:50 PM
While Sol and Caelwyn watch the rear, the rest of the group goes through the hole in the webs created by Akuno's summoned elemental. Sprocket pronounces Llew as free of the poison as he can be without magic. Grindar can tell that Llew is still feeling the effects of the poison, but it isn't exactly obvious to anyone who doesn't know Llew well. Thorondir leads the way between the areas he has entangled; the spells have twisted the grass in the area so that there is very little web left standing, and he feels safe from any spiders for the moment. 'Lil is looking for more, though, ready to attack. Bigby is ready to take the battle to anything they encounter on the other side of the webs. But they encounter no trouble getting everyone through.
The party pauses for a moment while Bigby and Grindar agree on which direction they should be headed. Sprocket packs up his healer's kit.
Perception DC 25: Highlight to display spoiler: {There is a faint, lingering smoke around the areas of web that the elemental cleared.}
Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: None d20+1=6 ; Thursday June 25th, 2020 2:33:19 AM
Sol follows through the webbing, keeping his eyes out, but still not seeing anything, perhaps he is distracted by the fact he managed to hit something for once?
"Where to now? Which direction?"
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=27 ; d20+8=16 ; Thursday June 25th, 2020 6:50:07 AM
Grindar's perception 27 Llew's perception 16
Grindar nods his understanding to Thorondir's words, and say, "He is a member of the pack, I would gladly do the same, or more, for any of my pack mates!"
Grindar notices the smoke from the web and thinks to himself that could be bad if left unchecked, so he heads to where he sees the smoke, and then being careful to not let any hit the ground, he casts create water to put out the potential fire, multiple times of needed. (The spell description says up to 2 gallons per level, implying less can be created. So Grindar is simply making enough to do the job, without spilling)
'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 18/12/16 - CMD 17 d20+8=26 ; Thursday June 25th, 2020 11:01:41 AM
'Lil wonders why Grindar's making water until she sees the smoke starting to rise (perception 26).
"Good thinkin' with the fire, Akuno, but unless your new buddy can fly it might be a good idea to send him home. We already had to outrun one grass fire. Them things move real fast."
She waits for the all clear from Grindar before moving. She stays in the front of the party, ready to stab anything what needs stabbing.
Readied attack if any varmints get near: Hit AC 20 for 10 damage (from previous roll).
AoO: miss (nat 1), and hit AC 24 for 7 damage.
Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 27/27 -- Aewen: AC 11 -- HP 13/13 d20+6=18 ; Thursday June 25th, 2020 12:00:39 PM
Glad that the party has made it safely through the spiders web, he turns his attention to Aewen for a moment. Carefully, he picks out any remaining webs from her feathers and soothes her with gentle strokes. ---Speak with Animals--- "Aewen, you need to be careful with those webs. You got out this time, but I was afraid the fire was coming for you. Be safe, fly now and tell me if you see more danger."
He lifts his arm and Aewen takes off quickly gathering speed and elevation.
Watching as Grindar puts out the fire he says: "We got safely out of the spider web for now, but we must be more careful. It would be helpful if someone could perform speak with animals when I am above and trying to tell you something. I must tell you Akuno, I am thankful for your help in getting the party through the web but I was very afraid that the fire would spread to Aewen who was trapped in the web at the time. I will try and keep her out of the web, but please consider her safety. We are all a bit spent after that close call, but we need to keep going. The spiders could return soon, especially after my entangle spell fades."
Akuno Neko (Ken) AC 15 / CMD 17 - 20/20 Hp Thursday June 25th, 2020 12:21:09 PM
"Oh man, I totally helped!" Akuno thinks. "Maybe I'll get an adventurers nickname like 'Sparky' or 'Haughty Hottie!' I also zapped that spider with acid! Maybe a bard will write about this one day?" Then of course, she's told she put both Aewen and the Sargrass at risk.
With a "hmph" that's pretty par for Akuno's course, she waggles a finger and dismisses her elemental. Red faced, she's embarrassed that she hadn't considered what would have happened if the fire had spread all at once, rather than in a controlled section by section burning. Her tail sags a little, and her ears lose some of their perk. She was pretty sure a small elementals burn ability had to be intentionally used, but arguing it would have been a bitter juice that wasn't worth the squeeze.
She stuffs her Unseen Servant into her backpack, along with her items, and finds a rock to sit on while the others decide what they should be doing next.
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 25th, 2020 1:11:18 PM
Seeing Akuno’s slump, Grindar comes along side he and says, “You did real good back there, that fire elemental was perfect for the job needed, I was just making sure we didn’t have any issues, you know like a wild fire. You do your job, I’ll do mine, and everyone else will do theirs, and we will perhaps someday be called the Sentinel Dragons!“
“I have speak with animals prepared a couple of times, in case I need or want to talk with Llew, but I was unable to cast it when I heard you calling, due to the spiders”.
BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 d20+11=18 ; Thursday June 25th, 2020 5:01:33 PM
Bigby hopes that the water doesn't cause any other unforseen issues. He remembers what the Manfri had warned about creating water in the Sargrass. Bigby nods to the party on a job well done. Bigby continues along with the party looking out for any issues. perception: 18. Bigby isn't certain on the direction but consults with the other druids for next steps.
DM Steve -- Middle of Nowhere -- Module 4, day 11, early afternoon d20=7 ; Thursday June 25th, 2020 11:33:42 PM
. Grindar works slowly and carefully, creating small amounts of water to put out smoldering bits of grass while the rest of the party grows increasingly nervous about the spiders. Fortunately, Thorondir's spells last a few minutes. Still, Grindar does spill a few drops on the ground, where there is a sudden but very short-lived flurry of activity. No one saw just what it was.
Meanwhile, Thorondir and Bigby get their bearings and are confident they'll be back on track. Akuno's elemental disappears. 'Lil and Caelwyn stand guard while Grindar works. And Sprocket asks Sol to help him get his pack adjusted.
Everyone's ready to go before long, and the miserable slog begins again.
A little after midday, Aewen flies down to Thorondir. Before he can find out what's going on, there is a shout from the distance. "Ho!, the druid. What news?", followed by the sound of someone approaching.
Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: None Friday June 26th, 2020 5:15:26 AM
Sol helps Sprocket adjust his pack, and frowns when he hears the voice.
"Who's there?"
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=30 ; Friday June 26th, 2020 6:46:36 AM
Grindar tells Llew to stay behind him, as he hold Bwyell at the ready, he scans the area with his eyes, and listens intently, in hopes of seeing or hearing the source of the voice. (perception 30)
'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 18/12/16 - CMD 17 d20+8=21 ; Friday June 26th, 2020 10:28:26 AM
'Lil nudges Akuno & gives her a quick nod of her head, the universal sign of "good job." Her and her dudes had been hard on the cat girl. Domi knows she earned some of that, but that weren't no reason to keep puttin' her down when she done good.
She's confused by the voice. Who the heck would be out here? Do they not see the giant ring'a spiders and webs? She keeps her eyes peeled (perception 21) and Maya at the ready. Maybe some'a the critters in the Sargrass could mimic?
Readied attack if any varmints get near: Hit AC 20 for 10 damage (from previous roll).
AoO: miss (nat 1), and hit AC 24 for 7 damage.
Akuno Neko (Ken) AC 15 / CMD 17 - 20/20 Hp d20=18 ; Friday June 26th, 2020 12:17:15 PM
Akuno cheers visibly when both Grindar and 'Lil" offer encouragement. The catgirls emotional responses seem to be balanced on a razors edge and easily swung in any given direction. Her tail a bit more lively and her ears restored to their former perk, she eventually absorbs the lesson about making sure her spells don't have accidental casualties.
When a voice calls out, she finds herself near Grindar, helping him scan the grass. She lets her Unseen Servant with her items out of the bag, and tells it to stay close.
Perception 18; Aid Another for Grindar. Success.
BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 d20+11=31 ; Friday June 26th, 2020 1:48:36 PM
perception: 31 Wolfgang attempts to use scent to determine the direction of the voice. "where's it coming from Wolfgang?" Bigby and Wolfgang get into defensive position. It probably is friendly, but you never know in the Sargrass.
Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 27/27 -- Aewen: AC 11 -- HP 13/13 d20+6=10 ; d20+4=15 ; Friday June 26th, 2020 4:29:09 PM
--Speak with Animals-- "Aewen, what did you see? Are there many?"
Thorondir steps forward a bit, still staying behind Grindar. "What druid are you looking for? Hold and declare yourself first, tell us who you are and why you are here."
Perception 10 Sense motive 15
DM Steve -- Middle of Nowhere -- Module 4, day 11, early afternoon Friday June 26th, 2020 11:55:08 PM
OOC: It looks like I wasn't clear in my last post. After the spiders, the Sentinels walked the rest of the morning before this new encounter started. The fight, adjusting the pack, thanking Akuno, spiders and webs -- were the same day, but now it's four or five hours later.
-----
"Declare myself? I believe I just did," the voice says. It's soft and distant sounding, but getting louder. "I called out so's you know I'm not sneakin' up on you. If you're lookin' for a name, it's Roddy. That don't make me any more or less friendly."
Grindar, weapon in hand and closest in the party to the voice, has no trouble telling which direction the voice comes from. Nor does Bigby. As Roddy approaches, he keeps talking, although it's a rambling conversation and he doesn't seem to expect any response to it. Maybe he's letting you know where he is, or maybe he just talks to himself. Following Grindar's gaze, everyone else can tell where the voice is. Before long, the group can see a man approaching, but he's still at a distance where the grasses prevent them from making out clear detail.
'Lil also has her weapon ready. Until the man got close enough, she'd thought it might be something else. At her command, Akuno's unseen servant readies her items. Sprocket hovers near Sol, in the center of the group.
Caelwyn looks around to make sure this isn't a distraction for an attack from another direction.
Thorondir -- Highlight to display spoiler: {Aewen says it's just one man who moves fast.}
Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: None Saturday June 27th, 2020 8:15:53 AM
Sol steps forward smiling.
"Nice to meet you Roddy, I'm Elijah Solomon. You can call me Sol. What brings you way out here in the Sargrass?"
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 Saturday June 27th, 2020 11:54:25 AM
Seeing Sol get all friendly, with the stranger, sets Grindar into action. He quickly puts himself between Sol and the direction of Roddy. He turns back to Sol and whispers, “He doesn’t sound like a threat, but I’m not taking any chances, the lives of my pack mates are too important to me!”
Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 27/27 -- Aewen: AC 11 -- HP 13/13 Saturday June 27th, 2020 3:08:27 PM "When I said 'hold and declare yourself' I mean for you to stop moving and tell us your purpose."
Thorondir moves his arm and Aewen launches into the sky.
"I understand that you are traveling alone, but move unnaturally quickly through the Sargrass. Stay still and we can have a conversation. If you keep moving, it seems we will have to assume you mean harm to us."
[To DM: can I have a description of what the man is wearing, in particular does he have any metal items on him?]
Akuno Neko (Ken) AC 15 / CMD 17 - 20/20 Hp Saturday June 27th, 2020 8:58:15 PM
When Grindar jumps in front of Sol, Akuno is a bit startled. It seemed like a rare occurrence to bump into someone out here. Maybe this group had found trouble on the road in the past?
"Wait, if he knew Thorondir was a druid, doesn't that mean he is one too? Are there bad druids?
Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 44/44; CMD: 15 d20+2=11 ; Sunday June 28th, 2020 9:05:04 PM
Caelwyn knows he companions will handle the introductions fine, but he is also wary of strangers in the Sargrass. He keeps his eyes open for threats from any other direction, shield and trident at the ready.
Perception 11
BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 Sunday June 28th, 2020 10:40:32 PM
Bigby watches the new comer and is cautious. The Sargrass has eaten him up more than once and you just never knew what you would be dealing with. But he's also learned that good people and things come from the Sargrass.
'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 18/12/16 - CMD 17 Monday June 29th, 2020 10:45:37 AM
'Lil ain't never met a bad druid...or has she? Some of them druids were really angry about their tree being used as a boat. Would they have gotten violent if their head dude hadn't been there to calm them down?
Either way, she's pretty sure there are evil druids out there. She ain't got much to say that hasn't already been said, so she waits for a response.
DM Steve -- Middle of Nowhere -- Module 4, day 11, early afternoon d20+16=36 ; Monday June 29th, 2020 8:19:07 PM
Roddy continues moving towards the group, still talking, until Grindar and Bigby can get a reasonably good look at him despite the grass. He stops at that distance, about 25 feet away from them. 'Lil, Sol, Akuno, and Sprocket can also see, and be seen by, him. Thorondir and Caelwyn have a harder time because of the grass.
Roddy is outfitted in a bulky-looking armor made of woven grass and scales cut from the carapaces of large beetles similar to those several of the Sentinels have encountered before. He appears to be about seven and a half or eight feet tall, but human except for the height. At his waist hangs a cruel-looking club, with a row of spikes along its length. You see nothing metal, and several bits of his outfit you just don't recognize. His face is difficult to make out below his broad, woven hat, but his hair is long and white.
"Good afternoon, Sol," Roddy says, catching Sol's eye around Grindar's protective bulk. "I haven't seen outsiders for ages now. I pretty much live out here in the Sargrass." His eyes move to Grindar, "I'm not threatening you. I saw there was a druid in the area, and thought I'd come learn any news he has. I gather that's him with the anti-social attitude. Thorondir, is it? That's a name from the southern side of the mountains." Roddy nods in Thorondir's direction. "Though with the other animals there must be more than one. And yes, young lady, there have been plenty of bad druids. But I think that problem was mostly taken care of in the last age."
"Didn't catch the names of the rest of you. I'm going to assume you've gotten a good enough look that we can all relax a bit? I'd love to hear what news you have."
Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 27/27 -- Aewen: AC 11 -- HP 13/13 Monday June 29th, 2020 10:22:33 PM
Speaking druidic, Thorondir responds: "Yes, I am Thorondir one of the druids. I don't lead this party though, I have been asked to help keep them safe. So you will excuse my caution I am sure. Tell me what brings you here at this time? What news do you seek, perhaps I can help you if I know more of what you want."
Turning to Akuno, Thorondir adds: "It isn't so easy to judge good and bad. Choices are made that seem good to some and bad to others. Judging is difficult, and frequently wrong."
Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 44/44; CMD: 15 d20+2=21 ; Monday June 29th, 2020 10:43:03 PM
Caelwyn decides to simply monitor the situation, keeping an eye on the newcomer. He remembered hearing concerning things about the "Tall Men", or something like that, from previous stories, but he isn't sure about the details. One man shouldn't pose a problem...but the Sargrass is a strange place. Best to be on guard. Friendly, but not relaxed.
Perception 21
Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: None Tuesday June 30th, 2020 2:43:01 AM
Sol smiles, and puts his hand on Grindar's shoulder.
"It is fine Grindar, I appreciate you attempting to keep me safe. But there is only one of him and several of us, even if he takes a swing at me, you will all be on him in a moment. I doubt he is that foolish."
Sol peeks out from behind Grindar.
"What news are you looking for? There is a lot happening in the Sargrass, and to be honest, if you live out here, it is more likely that you know what is happening better than us, as you will know what is unusual and strange, so, pray tell, have you seen anything odd or out of the ordinary?"
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 30th, 2020 6:55:03 AM
Grindar lefs his defenses down for the moment, as he steps out of Sol's way. "My name is Grindar, son of Grindor, and if you come in peace you are most welcome", the half-orc responds, "As you surmised, their are actuality three druids among our number, though Thorondir is the only one who hasn't branched out into other learning. I myself am more Ranger than Druid. That said, as my friends have said, what news are you looking for?"
Akuno Neko (Ken) AC 15 / CMD 17 - 20/20 Hp Tuesday June 30th, 2020 11:38:08 AM
Akuno watches all of this with interest. She hadn't realized that Bigby and Grindar both were druids. She assumed Grindar was well, a Grindar. And she figured Bigby had Wolfgang because of dogs and packs and bonding and all that stuff.
When the man asks for news, Akuno smiles smugly. "It's pretty clear what this is about.", she declares. She strides forward proudly, patting off her fancy dress. "Yes, Mr. Roddy, the rumors are true. Akuno Neko, princess and inheritor of her parents vast kingdom, has come to the Sargrass."
Her curtsy would shame a socialite, but for her its par for the course. "I thank you for seeking me out and saving me to trouble of a perilous journey! Tell me wanderer, what news of my family?"
BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 Tuesday June 30th, 2020 11:56:19 AM
Bigby observes the interaction and wonders how the man knows Thorondirs name already. Must have been something he missed. Bigby simply introduces his name as Bigby and allows the rest to continue the conversation.
'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 18/12/16 - CMD 17 Tuesday June 30th, 2020 12:45:20 PM
This girl was too much. 'Lil suppresses a chuckle, and introduces herself.
"Good to meet ya, Roddy. I'm 'Lil. This place has tried real hard to kill us, so we've got what I'd call an abundance of caution. I promise we're a friendly bunch when we're not worried you're gonna kill us." She wonders why her dudes are answering his question with more questions, though. Were they expecting Rattledam to be a secret or somethin'? Truth is the place needed bodies to help get it off the ground.
"We're helpin' set up shop in New Rattledam. On our way now to get some'a that help from folks in Stone Temple village." She does leave the part about Virgil and the druidwood out.
DM Steve -- Middle of Nowhere -- Module 4, day 11, early afternoon d20=5 ; d20+16=28 ; Tuesday June 30th, 2020 7:25:41 PM
Roddy sits and talks at length. Mostly he responds to what the party says, but he sometimes goes off on a tangent that clearly means something to him but doesn't obviously connect to what he had been saying. When he sits, you notice that there are devices attached to his legs, no longer hidden by his attire. They account for his unnatural height.
He considers Sol's question first. "What am I looking for? Well, like I said, news. Can't tell me you don't have any, being Outsiders and all. That's news in itself. And the oddest, most out of the ordinary thing I've seen lately." He rambles on a little bit before remembering his manners. "Well met, Sol, Grindar, Akuno Neko, Bigby, and 'Lil. And Thorondir, too. I should've said that first. Who's your gnome friend? Or the one hanging back?"
When Akuno approaches him and says her piece, his attention settles on her. He removes his hat, revealing a boyish face with piercing blue eyes. "And what's this about a kingdom? I'm sorry, miss, I didn't know I was supposed to come looking for you. So it's a matter of luck that I found you. I don't recognize the name Neko, but the plains are a big place. Where do you think your family might be?" He takes in any details Akuno might tell him.
He also answers when 'Lil speaks. "So you're headed to the Stone Temple? The way you're going, you'll have to cut through the mountains to get there. Not the safest route, unless that's a singing monk you've got keeping guard."
"Of course you've got to be careful. No one's gonna fault you for that. But you've also got to take the opportunities you find." Roddy talks to fill space any time the party lets a silence form. He also asks the group questions, seemingly as they occur to him. Mostly they're questions about where you come from and what that was like. Of course, why you came here crops up, and did you really see clouds almost every day. When he asks what's the weirdest food you've ever eaten, it seems he's looking for an answer from back home.
Sense motive DC 23 Highlight to display spoiler: {You get the impression Roddy doesn't get much company, and tries to make up for that when he meets people. The only pause -- a very brief one -- in the words that tumble out of Roddy comes when 'Lil mentions Rattledam.}
Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 27/27 -- Aewen: AC 11 -- HP 13/13 d20+4=7 ; Tuesday June 30th, 2020 10:49:56 PM
Unsure if the stranger understood the druidic language, Thorondir decides to watch and listen as others tell their story. Aewen circles slowly above.
Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 44/44; CMD: 15 Tuesday June 30th, 2020 11:03:47 PM
Caelwyn introduces himself as a servant of Domi and protector of the innocent and helpless. He is respectful, but guarded - free with information about himself, but not keen to talk much about Rattledam.
Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: None d20+1=12 ; Wednesday July 1st, 2020 5:38:22 AM
Sol politely answers any of Roddy's questions, without prejudice and with utmost honesty, unless it's something that should be kept secret (for example, what Druid Wood actually is, how they came by it as those are not his secrets to tell, but anything about him personally, he answers happily.)
"Where are you headed then Roddy?"
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 July 1st, 2020 6:27:37 AM
Grindar put Bwyell away, and has a seat with his friends sharing his story. He talks about the day the hill giants attacked his village, and how the then Paladin, Succotash Slenderstick and his wild pig mount came to their aid just in time. He shares how Succotash and his father, Grindor the Ranger, lead the village to victory, and how Succotash healed Grindor when he was mortally wounded. He tells Roddy how that inspired him to become an adventurer, and talked about the Ranger training his father gave him. He talks about how his father asked a wizard friend and former adventuring team mate to teleport Grindar to the southern continent, as that is where he wished to make a name for himself. He shared how he was captured by savage halflings upon arrival, and how he helped the Sentinels defeat the halflings, after they helped him escape. He shares the adventures they have had thus far, though he is careful to omit anything that may indicate the help from the druids, druid wood and the like, as he, like his friends, considers that to be a secret to be taken to the grave.
Akuno Neko (Ken) AC 15 / CMD 17 - 20/20 Hp Wednesday July 1st, 2020 10:28:11 AM
Akuno smiles nervously at Roddy. "Well, they're somewhere. Hopefully here, if not, elsewhere! I couldn't tell you much about them, since I've never met them. Just kinda going on blind faith."
When Roddy asks about the weirdest food she's eaten, she looks pale. "Eh.. heh. Well, I ate a mouse once. I didn't want too, but children can be mean and because of this.. and this.. and these, they though it would be funny to make me eat one." Akuno points to her ears, tail and fangs. "He was my pet for awhile, and when I brought it to school to show him off, some boys made a ruckus about it. Cats can't be friends with mice. So they held me down and forced Pinky in my mouth and wrapped it closed with my scarf. Pinky got scared and started biting me.. and so .. I had to chew."
She smiles weakly and bonks herself on the side of her head. "I shouldn't have brought him with me, but they weren't mean to other kids with pets. Never trust the rabble, they say."
'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 18/12/16 - CMD 17 d20+10=12 ; Wednesday July 1st, 2020 1:19:40 PM
'Lil lets Grindar and the rest talk. She smiles a bit when he mentions seeing clouds every day.
"Nah, I'm a city girl. Grew up in Hook City where they have a weather machine what keeps things nice. Nice for us, anyway. All the rain we're supposed to get falls on the outskirts where the poorer folk live." She tries to remember if what he's saying about having to go through the mountains was right. Wasn't the place at the foot of the mountain?
(OOC: Carl's genuinely forgotten)
Her smile vanishes at Akuno's story. Yea, kids can be cruel, but she's pretty sure that's sociopathic behavior. She ain't got kids, but she tries to imagine what she'd do if someone did that to her kid. More to the point, she's confused about her admitting some part in it.
"That ain't a rabble thing, Akuno. I ain't one to give advice to royalty, but if I was in your shoes I'd make it a point to stop assigning myself part of the blame for that."
BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 Wednesday July 1st, 2020 2:56:11 PM "I don't remember much about my upbringing. Most of its kind of a blur to be honest. I remember Wolfgang and it seems he's always been by my side. we're connected in a way. Am I connected to him, or he connected to me. I don't know, but I just accept it. Well, I guess I somehow got to Hook City and saw that someone was putting a party together to head to the Sargrass. It sounded interesting to us and we went for it. We thought maybe we could learn more about how beastfolk came about."
Bigby shifts a bit and you can tell he's thinking. "as for food, well...eggs and eels has to be the most unique thing I've tried, but let me tell you it was pretty good. That's all I got to say about that."
DM Steve -- Middle of Nowhere -- Module 4, day 11, early evening Wednesday July 1st, 2020 8:43:48 PM
Roddy is genuinely delighted to hear about everyone's history, and shares plenty of his own in return.
In response to Sol's question, he talks about wanderlust. "Where am I headed? Pretty much just walking. It's what I do. I know some people like to live i one place, but I haven't for a long time. Mostly wander between Harvester villages." He does not notice, or does not remark on, Thorondir's silence. "So you're one of Domi's Bravest?" he asks Caelwyn, before talking about a man he met once -- a cleric, it seems. He seems to connect Grindar's story about the halflings to events he has heard of before. 'Lil's story of city life is fascinating for the number of people she says could be in one place and the notion of pushing the rain away. "Hah, it must be interesting seeing rain make it all the way to the ground."
As for 'Lil's pondering about going through the mountains, the rest of the group agrees that when Thich led them to the Stone Temple, they had to cross the mountains. "Thich would be a monk then. No one else prefers crossing the mountains to taking the crater. Mind you, neither is easy, but at least the crater don't explode anymore." Akuno's story gather her some sympathy, although Roddy didn't take it as poorly as 'Lil. "Blind faith, eh? Gets me more places than most things else." But the longest story easily had to be about where beastfolk come from. "Everyone's pretty much agreed that the Warper-Sar created the beastfolk -- though many think it might've been by accident..." the story goes. The exact method isn't mentioned, just that the Warper-Sar can create change. "... But what I find most interesting is that he probably hasn't made then yet..." Roddy talks a bit about the Wold's Cradle, and what happens to folks who get lost in it. Sometimes good things, more often bad. Sprocket chimes in on this tale to explain that is how he's heard things, too. People get lost in Maab's realm and sometimes come out again before they went in. "... Then there's beastfolk who were ordinary folk before they met the Warper-Sar, but from what I hear they remember the time when they weren't... And if you don't remember your childhood, you just might be one of the original beastfolk," he says to Bigby.
The conversations take the remainder of the day. Druid wood is not one of the subject Roddy brings up. (Although he'd surely have a story about it if someone else did.)
When the group notices the time, Roddy asks if you want him to move on before nightfall. Being that you just met him.
Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: None Thursday July 2nd, 2020 2:41:26 AM
Sol thinks for a moment.
"I have no issue with you joining us, if you want, but I think we should discuss it. I am certain you understand if my colleagues may be a bit apprehensive."
He turns to the other Sentinals and speaks in a lower whisper.
"As I said, I have no issue with him staying here, however I appreciate I can be somewhat naive in these sorts of things, I suggest if any one of us have a strong objection to him remaining, we ask him to move on. I do not wish to offend him, but I would prefer you could all sleep comfortably."
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 July 2nd, 2020 6:48:24 AM "I have no issue with Roddy staying the night, I would like to ask him more of the crater route. I've been concerned about entering the Crystal Mountains without a singing monk to guide us, and the chance of a less explosive route would be nice" Grindar says to his friends, then turning to Roddy he says, "Would you be able to guide us to this crater route, or at the least give us decent directions, without a monk in our party, I've been concerned as to how we are going to safely get to Stone Temple, and this crater path that you mention seems like the most logical approach".
'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 18/12/16 - CMD 17 Thursday July 2nd, 2020 11:24:05 AM "Yea, he seems friendly enough. May be useful too, ya know? Cae here could tell if he had evil in his heart. Ya did look, right dude?" She looks for a response. She thinks he once said he don't like using that ability willy nilly.
BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 Thursday July 2nd, 2020 1:53:40 PM
Bigby considers what Roddy says. "Original beastfolk?" He'd never considered that or what that even means. He would have to think on this. He would have to think on what this means for him. As for Roddy staying, Bigby nods his head and agrees with him staying the night. Bigby trusts the pack and always knows that Sols heart was in the right place.
Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 27/27 -- Aewen: AC 11 -- HP 13/13 Thursday July 2nd, 2020 5:31:10 PM
Thorondir quietly walks over and listens as the group welcomes the stranger into their midst. He looks Roddy over carefully, then asks; "Could you tell me a bit about what you are wearing and what it is you have strapped to your feet? I spoke to you in druidic, thinking you were a druid. Perhaps I was mistaken. Who besides Roddy are you, and what skills do you possess to wander the Sargrass alone?"
He then adds: "Oh, I have eaten the entrails of a freshly killed Blind Swallow, but that is where the nutrients are."
Akuno Neko (Ken) AC 15 / CMD 17 - 20/20 Hp Thursday July 2nd, 2020 10:47:02 PM
Akuno is happy to move on from an unhappy subject. "I don't have a problem with Roddy. He seems like someone we could learn from." Maybe she didn't feel it as strongly as Bigby, but she WAS curious about why she was the way she way, instead of being born as something normal, like 'Lil.
DM Steve -- Middle of Nowhere -- Module 4, day 12, early morning Friday July 3rd, 2020 12:46:46 AM
Roddy accepts the group's welcome, and will even show you the crater if that's what you want, although it's a couple of days away. He can also explain the route well enough for Grindar, Bigby, or Thorondir to find it. He is not a druid, and says he doesn't spend much time south of the mountains.
The night is uneventful. In the morning, Llew has recovered his strength from the spider bites.
Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: None Friday July 3rd, 2020 2:43:58 AM
Sol awakens early, which is unusual for him, but he is up as the sun rises. He gets himself dressed and finds a nice spot where the sun will rise over him, and perches there, writing in his diary/records of what has happened recently. He is as quiet as he can be so as not to disturb the others, but patiently waits for them to awaken.
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 July 3rd, 2020 11:46:32 AM
Grindar is ecstatic that Llew is better, as he preps for the day. He asks his friends, "It's up to you guys, do we want to take on Roddy as a guide, or simply except his directions. I have no opinion other then to say the guy kinda grows on ya, and I wouldn't mind his company a bit longer".
BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 Friday July 3rd, 2020 12:35:25 PM "Seems Llew is in better spirit Grindar. Im glad to see that." Bigby pats Wolfgang and Wolfgang goes over to Llew to see if he wants to play. Wolfgang bends down looking at Llew and jumps up encouraging him to run about. "As for Roddy, he's actually pretty good company and I don't like to say that about people." Bigby is unaware of his social cues at that moment in his comments.
Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 27/27 -- Aewen: AC 11 -- HP 13/13 Friday July 3rd, 2020 3:24:45 PM "Sure, keeping Roddy around is a good idea. Perhaps I can get answers to a few questions, and it is better to keep an eye on someone if you are unsure of their intentions."
Thorondir calls Aewen down and the two spend some time preening each other.
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 July 3rd, 2020 5:59:03 PM
Upon Wolfgang’s invitation to play, Llew look up to Grindar, as if to ask permission. Grindar smiles at his feline friend and says, “Go on”. Immediately Llew takes off chasing after her canine buddy.
DM Steve -- Middle of Nowhere -- Module 4, day 14, evening d4=1 ; Saturday July 4th, 2020 12:38:42 PM
Before setting out, Roddy explains to Grindar, Bigby, and Thorondir the route he is planning to take. The group set off, following Roddy's lead (slightly westward of their previous path). Roddy makes sure there's a constant conversation. The conversation includes advice on uses for the various plants the group encounters. They also hear about glassgrass and thrashgrass, but fortunately encounter neither. When the spiders of the previous day come up in conversation, there is advice on what they are useful for, too, which includes a good bit more than the party would have thought. The day passes quickly. However, Roddy leaves no time for hunting.
As evening comes, the party finds another cluster of bulbgrass.
Survival DC 20 Highlight to display spoiler: {Roddy seems to have a knack for getting people to move through the grass. The group came twice as far as the non-druids would normally have managed in a day.}
The next few days pass in the same manner, and Roddy brings the group to the edge of the crater around evening. There, he tells everyone that he is not inclined to visit the Stone Temple himself. From here, it's a simple matter of following the rim of the crater to the other side of the mountains, and turning east for a bit.
'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 18/12/16 - CMD 17 Saturday July 4th, 2020 12:45:01 PM
'Lil's glad Roddy's come with'em. She wonders why his constant talking don't draw more hungry critters to them, though. When it doesn't happen, she stops worrying about it.
When it's time to part ways, 'Lil speaks up. "Roddy, you've been a life saver...maybe literally. This place sure wants us dead sometimes. Will ya spend the rest of the night here with us an move on in the morning?" She tries to tell'im how to get to New Rattledam so he can come visit, but she's so turned around at this point that she ain't much help. Hopefully some'a her dudes help out.
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=30 ; Monday July 6th, 2020 6:28:21 AM
Survival 30
"How do you do it Roddy? we are making way better time and burning up way more miles then we were before we met you. Is there a trick to it, and is it something you could teach me?" Grindar is truly amazed. "As the one who usually takes point while traveling, often accompanied by my friend Bigby here, having such a skill would really help us out a lot!"
BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 Monday July 6th, 2020 1:35:09 PM "Perhaps if we had stilts to walk on as well we could all move easily through the grass." Bigby looks at Wolfgang and imagines him with four stilts on his legs and laughs. Wolgang looks back in knowing weary look and looks as if he were to shake his head at the idea.
Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 27/27 -- Aewen: AC 11 -- HP 13/13 d20+6=10 ; Monday July 6th, 2020 4:01:46 PM "It looks like my initial caution was unwarranted, I appreciate your help moving this group through the grass and keeping us on track." Thorondir sincerely says to Roddy. "Thanks also for directions to Stone Temple, it looks like we should be able to follow them easily enough."
As evening comes, he calls down Aewen and checks on her. Hopefully, she was able to catch some prey for a meal. Otherwise, Thorondir will hunt with her in the morning to make sure she gets a good meal.
Akuno Neko (Ken) AC 15 / CMD 17 - 20/20 Hp Monday July 6th, 2020 10:14:57 PM
Akuno also offers him a spot. "You can stay up with me and the servants, and help on watch. Or you can just sleep!"
DM Steve -- Middle of Nowhere -- Module 4, day 17, early afternoon Tuesday July 7th, 2020 12:26:30 AM
Roddy accepts the party's hospitality for one more night, but goes his own direction in the morning.
That day, as the party travels through the grass with the mountains towering over them in the east, they begin to come upon rubble, then boulders, which grow increasingly large for several hours. In the early afternoon for a time the boulders are the size of houses. For the rest of the day, the rocks they encounter gradually shrink in size. For the evening's camp, they find a spot where the boulders are large enough to offer some defense from one side.
The next day the group leaves the rubble behind and turns east, having come through the mountains without clearly seeing a crater. In the early afternoon of the following day, they push through the grasses to see the village at the Stone Temple ahead, with fields to cross to get there.
Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: None Tuesday July 7th, 2020 2:34:32 AM
Sol breathes a sigh of relief, he's glad to see the Stone Temple again, some safe refuge for the Sentinels rather than sleeping outside, which doesn't usually worry him, but the Sargrass is an odd and dangerous place.
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 July 7th, 2020 6:05:40 AM
Grindar isn't completely sure what to think upon arriving at Stone Temple. One the one hand, he is looking forward to seeing Virgil again, and some of the Monk's have shown themselves to be friendly indeed, not to mention, seeing any progress on the ship, but he wonders what fool's errand the Sentinels will be sent on next, as that seems to the trend.
BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 Tuesday July 7th, 2020 2:13:29 PM
Bigby and Wolfgang say their goodbyes to Roddy. They wish him well and hope to see him again. The Stone Temple. They kind of forgot what it was like being here so somehow it all still feels new to them. They wonder if they are going to end up on a quest from the monks.
'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 18/12/16 - CMD 17 Tuesday July 7th, 2020 4:17:37 PM
'Lil's real glad to see civilization again. She hopes nothin' bad's in this plain they have to cross to get there.
Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 27/27 -- Aewen: AC 11 -- HP 13/13 Tuesday July 7th, 2020 5:52:00 PM
Having said his thanks to Roddy, Thorondir again takes personal responsibility for the safety of the group.
Calling Aewen down to him [Speak with Animals]: "Watch carefully for danger, tell me if you see anything moving in the fields. Call to me from on high, I will understand."
Thorondir will again cast Speak with Animals if Aewen calls to him.
DM Steve -- Middle of Nowhere -- Module 4, day 17, early afternoon d4=4 ; Tuesday July 7th, 2020 11:50:05 PM It occurs to me that we may not always picture anywhere near the same thing when I try to describe an area. When the party travels through the Sargrass, I imagine them surrounded by grasses anywhere from 4 feet to 30 feet tall, but typically in the 10 to 15 foot range. As much like stands of bamboo as anything else, with visibility varying depending on the direction you look from about 5 to 30 feet. So encountering the boulders was not like finding a field of rubble, but like finding the rubble a piece at a time as you push through the growth. And finding cultivated fields outside of town means you can see for some distance again.
=====
The Sentinels begin their trek towards the village through the fields. After a few minutes, they realize they have been seen, as there is a bit of a stir at the edge of town. A bird leaves the town and heads their direction, attracting Aewen's attention. When the new bird arrives, it alights and turns into Biel.
Good day! he says to all. "Virgil has been worried. When the fairy diddles came back without you, he was almost beside himself. But they said you had been happy to visit with old friends, and stayed in town rather than joining them for the return trip."
As he walks into town with the group, Biel informs everyone that negotiations on the new boat have started, and -- "Who's this?" he asks, noticing Sprocket. Sprocket says that he has come from Rattledam to see about the boat, as they are greatly concerned about what might happen with it. "Of course," Biel answers, "Just like everyone else. Let me give you all the run-down... In the weeks that you have been gone, the sailors and craftsmen that the merchants had sent for have arrived. Shortly thereafter, I and a handful of other druids came. The druids are here to make demands about the boat. I'm here to urge you to follow your own counsel and not theirs..." In fact, Biel explains, he needs to return to his grove tomorrow. The merchants are not happy that the druids are making demands. The monks are concerned that the merchants would monopolize the boat to make money, when they need it for colonists. Virgil has retreated into a little thicket he grew around Genyielt's remains, and has rebuffed every attempt anyone has made to talk to him for the past few days.
"For my own part, what I have to say is that we must learn to live with the Sargrass as it is, not be coerced into a futile attempt to return it to what it once was. Or what it once may have been, seeing how many generations ago that was."
The party reaches the village without incident, and learn that they are welcome again -- Akuno, Thorondir, and Sprocket included -- to the quarters the group had been using.
Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: None Wednesday July 8th, 2020 4:32:57 AM
Sol spends some time relaxing in his quarters, but then looks to meet up with the rest of the Sentinels to see what their next step should be.
"I feel we should talk to the druids first, and find out what it is they are expecting, so that way we can then debate as to whether we feel that is the most appropriate course of action."
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 July 8th, 2020 6:10:06 AM "That's probably a good idea Sol, however, I think we may need to talk to Virgil too, it sounds like he isn't doing so well with all the arguing going on, they are arguing as to what to do with the remains of his closest friend after all", Grindar shares. "Why don't you and mayhaps some others of us Sentinels go talk to the Druids to learn their demands, while I, and whom ever wishes to join me goes talk to Virgil?", the half-orc suggests.
Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 27/27 -- Aewen: AC 11 -- HP 13/13 Wednesday July 8th, 2020 9:47:39 AM "I agree with Grindar." Thorondir says. "Perhaps it would be best if Bigby, Grindar and I go talk with him. That way we can converse in our druidic language. There are thoughts and ideas that don't translate well into the common tongue."
Thinking a bit, he adds "You know, if they are fighting among themselves over how to use this one ship, there will be others who will try and secure wood for more ships. This is something we must prevent."
'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 18/12/16 - CMD 17 Wednesday July 8th, 2020 11:10:50 AM
'Lil sighs. This was all super important, no doubt, but her diplomacy muscles were just finally startin' to let up after days of heavy use.
No matter, one's gotta do what one's gotta do.
Her dudes all make good points, but she's got a request. "Thorondir, you mind coming to talk to the druids with us? If what you say about ya'lls language is true, might help to have a speaker with both groups."
What she keeps to herself is that Thorondir seems more likely not to brook any nonsense from folks, including his own kind. She's got a hunch these druids is waist deep in nonsense.
For her part, she's more than happy to make protecting druid trees part'a the Sentinel's duties.
BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 Wednesday July 8th, 2020 12:12:51 PM "humans and their money making scheme." Bigby was willing to hear out each side but already felt that the boat should be for the people not for making money. Bigby agrees with a nod to 'Lils request for Thorondir to join and makes sure that he sees his approval.
Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 27/27 -- Aewen: AC 11 -- HP 13/13 Wednesday July 8th, 2020 12:44:40 PM
Wishing more to go to the small grove that Virgil started, he nods in agreement to Lil. "If you think it will help I will go talk to the druids. My concern is really more with the merchants, they will be the ones demanding more druid wood for more ships."
Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 44/44; CMD: 15 Wednesday July 8th, 2020 1:23:54 PM
Caelwyn thinks for a moment, then states, "We must talk to all of them, and we can certainly split up to do it. But I will speak with Virgil first - he is the most important person for us to listen and speak to, as the ship means so much to him. Let us be diplomatic with everyone involved and try to listen first, then we can discuss what we find among ourselves."
If no one objects, Caelwyn wants to be among those who speak with Virgil first.
Akuno Neko (Ken) AC 15 / CMD 17 - 20/20 Hp d20+7=26 ; d20+1=21 ; Wednesday July 8th, 2020 5:07:00 PM
Akuno isn't quite sure where she should be going. There's names of people and stuff about a druid boat, but she's not really clued in on any of it.
"Boooring.", she says, before tucking her favorite servant under her arm and walking off towards the township itself. She doesn't make an explicit request for his company, but Akuno does turn around and glance back at Bigby for more than a few moments, and doesn't complain if he tags along.
She pokes around with the people here, sniffing the air for anything curious, and trying to learn about them as best she can. What are the problems they are facing? How could she help?
And maybe, just maybe, she can find someone with dried or canned fish out here in this wasteland.
Know History: 26 (Asking about local establishment and its history) Know Local: 21 (seeking people with problems or need help, looking for someone who has a fish.) (nat 20)
DM Steve -- Stone Temple Village -- Module 4, day 18, morning d12=8 ; d20=17 ; d20=2 ; d20=7 ; d20=3 ; Wednesday July 8th, 2020 10:50:27 PM
The Sentinels are not exactly enthusiastic to be back to baby-sitting grownups, but they set a strategy the rest of the day and plan to get to work the next morning. Before night falls, Akuno learns that her best chance of finding fish will be to talk to the recently arrived sailors.
In the morning: * Grindar, Bigby, and Caelwyn will go to talk to Virgil. * Sol, 'Lil, and Thorondir will go to talk to the visiting druids. * Akuno goes to look for fish and non-boring ways to help people. * Llew, Wolfgang, and Aewen go hunting. * Based on inquiries he made last evening, Sprocket heads off to talk to the monks.
=====
Grindar, Bigby, and Caelwyn
Grindar, Bigby, and Caelwyn arrive at Virgil's thicket in the morning. Aware that folks are arguing as to what to do with the remains of his closest friend, and disapproving of human money making schemes, they approach Virgil carefully so as not to risk causing offense.
They find Virgil in a pretty good mood. He greets them and asks how their travels were. He talks about the town. Turns out that most of the townsfolk have been very good to him. Although he's not planning on staying here once there is a boat, he believes he will visit. Although he must have some idea what the three Sentinels are here to talk about, though, he does not broach the subject.
=====
Sol, 'Lil, and Thorondir
Having learned from Biel the previous evening where the druids are staying, Sol, 'Lil, and Thorondir head there in the morning, already skeptical about what they expect to hear. One thing they expect to agree with the druids on is the need to protect the remaining druid trees.
Biel has already departed by the time they get there. At least the remaining druids are known to Thorondir by reputation. The druids are, however, not interested in talking with the Sentinels. In fact, they go so far as to speak no Common.
"Le tuiscint a fháil ar an draíocht, foghlaimíonn Thorondir gur dheonaigh na draoithe adhmad cheana féin chun an long a thógáil, agus cé go bhfuil amhras fós ag cuid acu ar eagna an méid seo ghlac siad leis. Ach is iadsan an t-aon fhoinse le haghaidh tuilleadh adhmaid sa todhchaí."
"Ní dócha mar a shíleann siad go ndéanfaidís amhlaidh."
"Agus braitheann siad gurb iad an foinse is fearr le comhairle a fháil ar conas an úsáid is mó a bhaint as an adhmad."
"Tá sé beartaithe acu a seasamh a úsáid chun a chur ina luí ar na grúpaí eile beartais athchóirithe a ghlacadh. Dúnadh iad, áfach, as gach plé go dtí seo."
Thorondir Highlight to display spoiler: {Understanding druidic, Thorondir learns that the druids have already granted wood for the ship to be built, and although some still doubt the wisdom of this they have accepted it. But they are also the only source for any more wood in the future (unlikely as they think it is that they would grant it) and feel they are the best source for advise on how to get the most use from the wood. They plan to use their position to try to convince the other groups to adopt restorationist policies. They have, however, been shut out of all discussions so far.}
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Akuno
Sailors have a reputation. Akuno is careful as she pokes about, until she realizes that there really aren't a lot of them here, and the ones that are here are also craftsmen. As she asks about fish -- they do have some salted fish still, which she might be able to barter for -- Akuno learns that they are also annoyed. Not everyone survived the journey, for one thing. No one knows anything about building a flying ship, for another. They can build ships, of course, but after this hideous journey they learn they only have one tree to work with and no one even knows whether it is buoyant or how buoyant it is.
The only historic local establishment is the Stone Temple, which isn't really a temple anymore -- just a museum.
=====
The animals find the hunting near town disappointing.
Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: None Thursday July 9th, 2020 2:43:05 AM
Sol simply raises an eyebrow, as if to express his dislike of the inconsiderate nature of these druids, but he says nothing, simply waiting for Thorondir to (hopefully) translate.
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 July 9th, 2020 6:55:30 AM "Virgil, it is truly shady to see you, my moonshade friend!", Grindar says as he see's the druid. "I hear that some whitehands are arguing over what to do with our friends remains, that saddens me, and I can only imagine how it makes you feel. I would love to hear your take on the whole thing, because to be honest, your view is the only one that matters to me!"
BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 Thursday July 9th, 2020 11:49:40 AM
Bigby wonders about the family on the caravan that they had saved. Were the two kids still playing that game with the wizard and fighter. Something like Barratore and the other name escaped him. He would have to look for them later and buy some eggs and eels as well. Perhaps that could be close enough to the fish that Akuno had mentioned before. ok Bigby, remember all of these things. Bigby greets Virgil, "how are you holding up? And hows the boat coming along?"
Caelwyn Alterius (Casey M.) AC: 19/10/19; HP: 44/44; CMD: 15 Thursday July 9th, 2020 9:10:04 PM
Caelwyn greets Virgil with genuine respect and pleasure. "Glad to hear all has been well with you here. We've tried to iron out some difficulties back in Rattledam, but now we hope to help here however we can. It looks like some folks are a bit on edge already...what needs to be done?"
Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 27/27 -- Aewen: AC 11 -- HP 13/13 Thursday July 9th, 2020 10:51:30 PM
Thorondir speaks to the druids in their language (he will translate later to Sol and Lil: "I agree, the wood must be honored and not taken for granted. I am afraid if the merchants have their way they will demand more wood for more ships. The grove will be in danger if greed has its way."
He thanks the druids and asks their leave. When they depart, Thorondir will explain to Lil and Sol that the druids have been shut out of conversations. He agrees that they must be part of it, and explains his concerns: "Merchants provide a valuable service to the town, but most eventually fall into greed. If they have full control of the wood and ship, soon they will request more wood for more ships. The druids must be part of the council to make decisions."
Akuno Neko (Ken) AC 15 / CMD 17 - 20/20 Hp Thursday July 9th, 2020 11:20:55 PM
Akuno drools over the mention of salted fish. It takes a moment to get her focus where it needs to be. "I'm sorry that the plans of the tree-boat aren't anchored down yet. Losing the wind in your sails is frustrating, but being dead in the water with no idea on how to get moving again is worse." She smiles a little. "But, I DO think that there's some really capable people out here in these poxed grasses. The Sentinels are doing everything they can to make everyone happy, and I think that sooner or later we will have you all on the right course. Just believe in heroes, and in yourselves. You'll endure."
She casts sad eyes towards the men.
"Unlike me, meow. I haven't eaten a single decent fish in weeks. I haven't even had a single indecent fish. If you could trade yours for gold or service, it might keep me from starving. I wasn't made of tough enough stuff to subsist on trail rations, raisins, and boiled grass." She puts a hand on her forehead, as if feeling faint. "It may be too late anyways...", she cries. "Would you be willing to make a trade?"
'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 18/12/16 - CMD 17 Friday July 10th, 2020 12:27:44 AM
'Lil feels like everyone's bein' way too accepting of "the way things are gonna be."
"Look, I'm fully ready to smash heads of anyone what wants to kill more druid trees to make a boat. We're all on the same page with that, yea?"
OOC: Migraine. Short post. Sorry.
DM Steve -- Stone Temple Village -- Module 4, day 18, morning Friday July 10th, 2020 12:43:07 AM
Grindar, Bigby, and Caelwyn
After Grindar, Bigby, and Caelwyn express their sympathies to Virgil and assure him that his opinion carries the most weight with them, he gives a small chuckle. "I forget. Did we ever tell you about the Baron?"
"Anyway, what needs to be done is we need to set some rules and get everyone here to agree to them. About how the boat is going to be used, and by whom. I've been sneaking into town and talking with Attius. Based on what he's told me, I have some ideas how to handle things. But first, tell me what you've learned about your feline friend, Miss Neko. Is she reliable?"
After Virgil hears the trio's answers, he asks them to come back with the entire group in the morning. Anything they manage to learn about what other people expect of the boat could also be useful.
=====
Sol, 'Lil, and Thorondir
The druids are highly irritated, and all Sol and 'Lil have to go on is Thorondir's assurance that this is with reason when the threesome heads back into the village. The three have most of the day ahead of them still, and are not sure that the Sentinels will be back together before evening. While they debate what to do, they bump into Sprocket.
"How has your day been?" he asks. He, himself, needs to find Attius or Flitch, but hasn't been having much luck.
=====
Akuno
"Would we be willing to make a trade? For salted fish? I suppose. What trade are you proposing?" The men debate among themselves, not sure how much of the stuff they might have left. The come to the conclusion that they must still have a barrel of the stuff, because they haven't been able to prepare it for several weeks now.
Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP: 17/20 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 Active Spells: None Friday July 10th, 2020 2:50:24 AM
Sol smiles at Sprocket.
"Ah Sprocket, good to see you. Well speaking with the druids was... interesting. They say they've been forced out of the negotiations about the druid wood? Do you know if that is true?"
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 July 10th, 2020 6:59:27 AM "Akuno is a bit of a whitehand, though she is trust worthy, and she is trying, two important qualities. If she keeps going as she is, someday she may be as shady as the rest of the pack. Oh we decided to name our pack, well really the peeps at Rattledam requested it, I guess it makes it easier to identify us or something. We decided that the Sargrass Sentinels, or Sentinels for short, had some nice shade to it. We will gather the rest of the Sentinels for sure, if for no other reason than the fact that they would like to see you too, and we'll get this sorted out together!". Grindar makes sure to relay Virgil's message to the rest of the pack
BigbyWolf ( Michael) 34/34 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 27/27 -AC 17 Friday July 10th, 2020 10:36:42 AM
Bigby listens to Grindars and Caelwyns response and then chimes in with, "Shes different but one of us. And she means well. What was it you wanted to tell us about the Baron," Bigby asks. When the time is right Bigby heads with the group in the morning with the entire group.
'Lil - (Carl) - 36/36 HP - AC 18/12/16 - CMD 17 Friday July 10th, 2020 12:00:31 PM
'Lil starts feelin' pangs of something in her gut. She'd made some wrong assumptions about the druids, maybe. There was more to discover here, maybe. She wonders if Sprocket's heard anything about the druids being locked out, seein' as he's only been here as long as the rest of'em.
"The druids ain't wrong. It's only a matter'a time before someone gets the bright idea to go kill themselves a druid tree to get the wood. It's all good and well for us to say we'll punish any who do, but it took us days to get here and we still ain't near their grove, ya know? Until Sol here or Akuno can start teleportin' folks, we can just shake our fists, and them fists will look pretty small from so far away." It's a problem she don't have an answer to. Still, coming to the agreement that tryin'a raid the druids grove was a capital offense was a good start. She wasn't in the mood to get any push back from merchants on that matter, but would they show their hand like that?
Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 27/27 -- Aewen: AC 11 -- HP 13/13 Friday July 10th, 2020 5:28:31 PM
Thorondir talking to Lil, Sol and Sprocket: "So how does is the ownership of the boat supposed to work? Does the town own it? Seems like if nobody rightfully owns it there might be some sort of squabble about who gets to use it and for what. Maybe you Sentinels should own it? Then you could loan it out as you see fit, and use it to move around the Sargrass. Like I say, I was sent to protect the tree and look after you folks, so I don't have a concern myself on it. Just want to make sure there isn't a bunch of folks looking to make a fleet of them."
Akuno Neko (Ken) AC 15 / CMD 17 - 20/20 Hp Friday July 10th, 2020 8:25:10 PM
Akuno hazards a smile. "I have gold? I can perform service? I can offer unseen servants for labor? Lets make a deal!"
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