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Lost Souls
Diara's Lament


DM Kathy 
Monday October 5th, 2020 2:08:09 PM
Upon hearing that somebody is looking to speak with you, Succotash and Murphy try to find her, hopefully gathering the rest of the party along the way. It takes longer than you would have expected--she doesn't seem to be frequenting the taverns or other public places.

You finally catch up with her on a little hillock overlooking the Crescent River. It has (of course) started to rain again, and she is standing under the boughs of a spreading cedar tree. She is, as Murphy suspected, a half-elf, looking human to some and elvish to others.

Succotash invites her back to your headquarters, but she demurs. "Enclosed spaces," she says. "They--I'm not comfortable in them now. If you don't mind, could we talk here?"

"My name is Diara Fayst," she says. "I'm an adventurer. Or maybe I should say I was an adventurer. I don't think I have the heart for it anymore.

"My companions and I heard about a pocket realm," she continues. "A dark fae place called The Ruins. It's a gloomy, cheerless realm where the undead seem to thrive. But there was adventure there, and possibly treasure, so we decided to find our way there.

"We were exploring one particular ruin complex when everything started to go wrong. Clovis and Vitaly just--wandered off. We tried to follow, but they had a head start, and we had a hard time figuring out which way they went. Clovis was our tracker, you see.

"I was scouting ahead. I'm the party rogue, you see; me and Clovis usually took it in turns. Anyway, I heard Elora and Harmet yelling and screaming behind me. So I turned around and tried to find them. I went back to where I'd left them, but they weren't there. And I'm no tracker; I couldn't see where they went.

"So I started looking, but all I found was a bunch of wraiths, who attacked me. I barely escaped, and could still see no sign of the others, so I decided to try to find help. And now, here I am. Please, can you help me? I know the odds aren't good, and my companions are most likely dead. But they deserve to be laid to rest. And if there's even a chance one of them is still alive, I won't give up on them."

Both Succotash and Murphy, sensing motive, feel that Diara is being sincere. Her distress over her lost companions is very real. She really does want your help, and means no harm to your group.

Succotash (Jeremy) AC 32/17/30 CMD 21 HP 115/115 Valerie AC 38/16/33 CMD 28 HP 109/109 Spells 
Monday October 5th, 2020 5:52:35 PM
"Miss Diara, I can say, for certainty, that my friends and I will do all within our power to help, I can also say for certainty that you will be safe at our compound, which we call our Sanctuary and home, but I won't try to force you to join us there. I have to return to gather my equipment, as well as my scaly friend, and I know Murphy has to gather his gear as well. Add to that we need to inform the rest of the Swords, so they can make ready as well. Will you at least travel with us to the gate of your abode, it would make this process a lot easier?"

If Diara is willing to travel with them to the Sanctuary's gates, he will lead her there, and then gather the troops, grab his handy haversack, don his armor, and saddle and bard Valerie. If not he will do all the above and then head back to meet her at her location.

Bliss HP165/165 AC32 | Mookie HP76/76 AC41 | Cayzle 
Monday October 5th, 2020 8:32:09 PM

Bliss bows and agrees with Succotash. "We would be happy to help you, Miss. But we need more information. How do you get to this demi-plane? Does magic or anything work differently there? What do your friends look like? How can we tell who they are?"

"Will you come with us? If not, can you tell us something to tell them so that they will trust us?"

"When should we leave? Right this second? Tomorrow?"

Bliss thinks about the 100,000 gold burning a hole in his pocket.

Pressi (Melvin) - AC 26 (31), HP 132, CMD 25; Harper AC 30 (35), HP 94, CMD 29 (34) 
Monday October 5th, 2020 9:44:04 PM
Before leaving to the grotto, Pressi asks Bliss about Granny's abilities and spells. (She wants to know, before promoting one to cohort herself, if Bliss went arcane or divine.)

She also realizes she needs to book it to the catacombs herself.

But that can wait for another time.

The near ghostly red headed figure that looks like her? Not so much.

Pressi (Melvin) - AC 26 (31), HP 132, CMD 25; Harper AC 30 (35), HP 94, CMD 29 (34) 
Monday October 5th, 2020 10:02:01 PM

No sooner does Murphy finish his speech than Pressi begins to laugh, strongly, hollowly.

"Oh, you foolish, foolish little child. Thinking that you've lived a meaningful life. Thinking that you know anything about family. Oh, that is...

"Very well, allow me to give you my long awaited answer...."

--------------------

"This is why you left?" the real Pressi got asked by her sister. "All that posturing, all that principled stance. Such distaste at being a thief and an enchantress. And for what?"

"I warn you," Pressi whispered to her sister. "You can still leave now, in peace. But if it's a fight you want..."

"No, I don't need a fight." Pressi's sister raised her arms in a familiar unarmed pose. "Just an idea of what you truly are capable of...."

----------------

"Pressi" stared at Murphy with green eyes, shifting and shimmering into a much older woman with a cane. "The answer is that you no longer control your destinies. But yes, we do choose you for life, all of us... for better or for worse...."

She glanced upwards at yet another Silverglove sister. This sister stood in silence. Nobody moved. It was clear that no Silverglove would attack yet.

The old woman fingered the skull ring Murphy once kissed. Plants seemed to die where she stood. "And Pressi's wishes are now irrelevant. Murphy was it? You wanted to meet the family? Oh, we so wanted to meet you too...."

Bliss HP165/165 AC32 | Mookie HP76/76 AC41 | Cayzle 
Monday October 5th, 2020 11:53:27 PM
OOC: Granny is a level 12 Bloodwitch. Not sure which domain or immortal power yet.

Hobie (Nick T) HP 171/171 AC 33 Touch 19 Flat 27 CMD 37 Hero Points 8 Prepared Spells 
Tuesday October 6th, 2020 11:44:26 AM
Hearing of Diara's plight, Hobie gathers up all of his gear, and gets himself ready to go.

DM Kathy 
Tuesday October 6th, 2020 2:17:59 PM
Succotash promises that your group will help, and asks Diara to come with you to the Sanctuary.

"I'll come with you," she says, "but I prefer to wait outside."

You make your way through the rain. Although it's spring, winter's chill has lingered long enough to make the rain uncomfortably cold. Diara puts her hood up and slogs along with the rest of you.

When you reach your headquarters, Hobie immediately starts gathering gear, with Succotash not far behind.

Diara remains outside, finding another tree to shelter under. Bliss stays behind to talk to her. He asks about her companions.

"Well, there's Clovis," she says. "Clovis Bylee. He's a halfling, like you. A ranger, skilled in wilderness lore. He's our tracker, and helps me scout. Elora's our wizard. Elora Helethar, an elf. And then there are our two humans: Vitaly Cev and Harmet Ells. Vitaly's a cleric, and Harmet's a paladin. Harmet's very dashing. Don't tell him, but Elora and I are both kind of sweet on him." She describes her companions, well enough that you're pretty sure you'll know them if you see them.

Bliss also asks when they need to leave. Diara frowns. "They've already been there so long," she says anxiously. "So my heart says, hurry! Not a moment to lose! But my head says, they've been there so long already, another day probably won't make a difference. So do what you need to be prepared, but please, don't take too long."

You ask how to get there. "We used a Plane Shift spell," Diara says. "I have the planar fork here." She drops a small, oddly twisted stone into Bliss's hand.

Succotash (Jeremy) AC 32/17/30 CMD 21 HP 115/115 Valerie AC 38/16/33 CMD 28 HP 109/109 Spells 
Tuesday October 6th, 2020 8:01:40 PM
As Succotash is getting himself and Valerie ready, he realizes he and his crew aren't going anywhere today, as he needs to prepare plane shift. He realizes he won't be able to transport everyone in one go. With the six halflings, and 10 animals, plus Miss Diara, he figures that makes 11 total, or 10 if Miss Diara doesn't wish to return to the pocket realm. Either way he will have to take the group in two trips, which will require him to prepare plane shift no less then 3 times. Frustrated, he stops his preparations and heads back outside. "Sorry guys, and Miss Diara, I just realized a few things. First I need to prepare plane shift a few time to get us all there, and well I can't do that until tomorrow, second, I need a planer fork attuned to the pocket realm to make the spell work, and third, I need a planer fork attuned to the Wold to get us home. I have no idea where I am to find either of the forks."

Pressi (Melvin) - AC 26 (31), HP 132, CMD 25; Harper AC 30 (35), HP 94, CMD 29 (34) 
Tuesday October 6th, 2020 10:02:16 PM

Pressi's mother, Yamyra, continued to stare at the slack jawed yokel before her. "Speechless already?" she scoffed. "How odd. My sources assured me that you could give an hour long diatribe during a coma."

She moved off to the side opening a case full of liquors. "Come, let us at least toast to your good fortune, and to knowing what you want. You do know that, don't you son? I'm sure that you've already talked about that a good deal with my daughter. About how a small town and a couple of diversionary bandits won't be enough for her? About how she won't change diapers? About how much she talks of honor, even as she pursues power?"

Bliss HP165/165 AC32 | Mookie HP76/76 AC41 | Cayzle 
Tuesday October 6th, 2020 11:39:53 PM

Bliss shows Succotash the tuning fork to get there.

"Wait," he says to the half-elf, "How did you get back here?"

Murphy Leafwin Pipewood(KimMc) Halfling Druid - AC 33/T-23/Fl-29 CMD 37 HP 174 
Wednesday October 7th, 2020 2:47:13 AM

Grotto Rendezvous
Shocked at Pressi's uncharacteristic response, realization dawns upon Murphy that this is not ... Pressi.

He rises, silently taking in the woman's shifting countenance, posture, demeanor. He mentally reaches out. "Pressi - Pressi - where are you? Are you all right, my love?"

He hopes to 'hear' her response, but understands he also needs to answer the woman before him. "You are - Pressi's mother?" he asks. He could challenge her assertion that Pressi's wishes are irrelevant, but chooses not to verbalize that challenge.

His face is serious for a moment. He joins the woman's upwards glance. An eyebrow raises as he sees someone who strongly resembles what Pressi looked like when he first met her. Then, he can't help it. A smile begins to work its way into the corner of his mouth. He returns his attention to the woman with the cane.

"Yes. I can see where she gets it. Yes, I wanted, and want, to meet her family." He steps forward, no threat in his posture or face. "May I kiss your forehead, mother of my love?" Should she allow it, he does so.

Murphy Leafwin Pipewood(KimMc) Halfling Druid - AC 33/T-23/Fl-29 CMD 37 HP 174 
Wednesday October 7th, 2020 2:58:57 AM

[The above was written based upon Pressi's Monday post. I had not yet seen the Tuesday post.]

Murphy laughs. "Of course, a toast. To family, to families joined, and to diapers."

"Now, join in the toast, will, you sister of Pressi, and tell me which one you are?" he says to the sister nearby.

And after the toast, he says, "I'm a talker? When ready, you'll have to meet my mother."

Murphy Leafwin Pipewood(KimMc) Halfling Druid - AC 33/T-23/Fl-29 CMD 37 HP 174 
Wednesday October 7th, 2020 3:45:56 AM

At Humble's Sword Sanctuary

"Diara, under a cedar tree we found you. Perhaps I can introduce you to Quercus, our oak treant friend, in the south east corner - the walls are opened there, so you can come in and go out as you please. He likes to talk, and listen. In the opposite corner is Dderwen (pronounced 'There when'), an awakened oak. He likes to help halfling children into his branches. And we have a yew treehouse, 60' tall, next to the rocky mound in which we dwell. We've a small grove of fruit trees and nut trees, Bliss's fountain, gardens, even a water slide. Fear not to enter - but of course only should you choose to do so." Map of the Sanctuary of Humble's Sword

"I should think it might take us from a few hours minimum to prepare," Murphy says to his mates, and Diana, "or perhaps we'll want to spend time, learn more of what you know, and choose appropriate spells in the early morning following a good night's rest, then enter your pocket plane.

"How does that sound to you, my friends?" he asks.

He listens to what each has to say. He asks what special preparations they might make for dealing with the undead, "Do you know ghost touch, Succotash?" and with unpredictable fae. "I'll need a quick trip to the Catacombs."

Succotash (Jeremy) AC 32/17/30 CMD 21 HP 115/115 Valerie AC 38/16/33 CMD 28 HP 109/109 Spells 
Wednesday October 7th, 2020 6:33:07 AM
Succotash shakes his head negatively at Murphy's question, saying, "Though I'm sure it's a great spell, it's one of those spells the gods only allow with special permission, and I haven't received their approval. Oh and um Murph did you miss the whole I can't cast the spell until tomorrow thing? We won't be able to leave until the morning" Turning to Bliss he says, "That will get us there, though it is a kinda strange looking fork, now we need a way home, you wouldn't happen to have your Wold fork by chance Miss Diara? I promise to take good care of it, my way home depends on it!"

The Kezz'm (BrianW) - AC 39/20/34; HP 219/219; Rumpus AC 32/15/27 HP 95/95 
Wednesday October 7th, 2020 9:18:15 AM
"I am all for killing undead things an whatnot, but are we sure going into the demiplane of certain death is wise? There's no way this will turn out well for us."

Kezzem prepares his spells and is sure to stock up on plenty lesser restorations as he remembers that time we shadowwalked and got ambushed by shadows. Not fun.

Murphy Leafwin Pipewood(KimMc) Halfling Druid - AC 33/T-23/Fl-29 CMD 37 HP 174 
Wednesday October 7th, 2020 11:41:16 AM

"O, right, Succo - well, I was hoping for the morning in any event," Murphy responds. "My father has made tuning forks, but he's getting ready for a short trip to the Culverwood. Say, does anyone have a wand of lesser restoration?" he asks.

Hobie (Nick T) HP 171/171 AC 33 Touch 19 Flat 27 CMD 37 Hero Points 8 Prepared Spells 
Wednesday October 7th, 2020 12:46:00 PM
"I suppose if we have a small amount of time, and especially if we know we'll be dealing with undead, it couldn't hurt to take the time to rest and prepare the right spells. And I'll make another run to the catacombs quickly to get a few items that might be helpful. Anyone have any requests to add to my shopping list?


Murphy Leafwin Pipewood(KimMc) Halfling Druid - AC 33/T-23/Fl-29 CMD 37 HP 174 
Wednesday October 7th, 2020 1:33:01 PM

"Sure, Hobie, and thanks. How about a wand of lesser restoration?" Murphy requests. "I'll split the cost with anyone who wants to chip in, or will pay for the whole thing if needed. But it's for the party, and like as not someone besides me would be better at using it. I don't know what it costs, but here's 5000 gp. If more or less is needed, let me know."

The Kezz'm (BrianW) - AC 39/20/34; HP 219/219; Rumpus AC 32/15/27 HP 95/95 
Wednesday October 7th, 2020 2:09:43 PM
"I believe they cost 4500 gp," says Kezzem. "And I'm good with an even share for everyone who wants to chip in for it. And if we're wand, I'll probably rethink my spell selection. I could save us some charges, but there might be other useful things I can do instead. This divine favor spell looks pretty nice, for instance."

DM Kathy 
Wednesday October 7th, 2020 2:20:32 PM
Succotash mentions that he needs to prepare multiple Plane Shift spells for the next day.

"It's worse than that," Diara says. "You won't be able to rest in The Ruins, so you'll need enough to get back, too. And, hopefully, you'll have at least some of my companions with you."

Bliss asks Diara how she got back.

"We had scrolls," she replies. "Scrolls of Plane Shift. Elora had one, and Vitaly had one. They may still have them, if you can find them. Maybe that would help you get back. I had another one. Sort of our emergency scroll. I'm not a caster, but I can coax a scroll to work for me." [OOC: Diara has ranks in Use Magic Device.]

Murphy introduces Diara to the trees. She takes a liking to Quercus.

Kezzem expresses some misgivings, but gets ready to go.

Hobie proposes a Catacombs run.

Diara, now seated at Quercus's roots, seems fine with you taking the time to make your preparations. Indeed, she seems pleased that you are taking the task seriously.

[OOC: Regarding planar forks, I've always held that you don't need a fork to return to your home plane. The spell is a little ambiguous, and not all DMs will agree with me, but for our purposes, you don't need a fork to return to the Prime Material Plane. Of course, you can get one if you want one, but you don't need one.]

Bliss HP165/165 AC32 | Mookie HP76/76 AC41 | Cayzle 
Wednesday October 7th, 2020 3:52:33 PM

"Sure, Mister Murphy, I've got a wand of lesser restoration," says Bliss.

"Don't leave home without one!" caws Mookie.

"By the way," the raven continues, "You guys want me to carry the fortress? It might come in handy on this one, and I can turn it on and off for us."

The raven practices activating the Instant Fortress until he gets the hang of it and is fine with it.

"Hey Diary, uh," he says to the half elf, "were there many incorporeal undead there? You know, ghosts, shadows, wraiths, spirits, etc? Fortress ain't no good against them!"

"Since we gotta take a day to prep the spells, Ima go spend some money at the catacombs! Undead bane tears and negative energy protection, here I come!"

Bliss HP165/165 AC32 | Mookie HP76/76 AC41 | Cayzle 
Wednesday October 7th, 2020 4:18:06 PM
Bliss dashes back, and casts two Contingency spells, one for himself, one shared with Mookie ... Cure Critical Wounds as soon as hit points reach 1/3 max.

Succotash (Jeremy) AC 32/17/30 CMD 21 HP 115/115 Valerie AC 38/16/33 CMD 28 HP 109/109 Spells 
Wednesday October 7th, 2020 5:12:08 PM
Upon hearing that he won't be able to regain spells in the pocket dimension, Succotash's heart sinks. The idea of having to ration his spells isn't very comforting, and having to be able to cast plane shift 6 times, completely wipes out his 5th level spell slots. An idea finally comes to mind, and he turns to Hobie and says, "I know you can't cast plane shift yet, as for some reason us clerics get access to it sooner then you arcane types, but eventually you will be able to, meaning that you could cast it from a scroll right? If two of us cast the spell we will need a total of 4 scrolls, 2 arcane, and 2 divine, and we would be able to carry a total of 8 people each, or 16 people total. If I cast the spell by myself it will cost me a lot of my spell slots, and if I can't rest and recover them while in the pocket dimension, that will weaken us quite a bit, so scrolls is absolutely the way to go, the question is do I buy 2 or 6?"

The Kezz'm (BrianW) - AC 39/20/34; HP 219/219; Rumpus AC 32/15/27 HP 95/95 
Wednesday October 7th, 2020 6:46:37 PM
"Actually, I only have about 750 gp to contribute to the wand of lesser restoration," says Kezzem. "Bliss talked me into spending a bit more at the Catacombs. Just now, while I'm in the middle of this conversation with you. Time is weird."

Bliss HP165/165 AC32 | Mookie HP76/76 AC41 | Cayzle 
Wednesday October 7th, 2020 8:19:48 PM

"Sir Kezzem! I already HAVE a wand of Lesser Restoration! Fully charged! We're good on that front! And I'm buying a Wand of Death Ward too!"

Pressi (Melvin) - AC 26 (31), HP 132, CMD 25; Harper AC 30 (35), HP 94, CMD 29 (34) 
Wednesday October 7th, 2020 10:10:16 PM
Yamyra finds herself quickly taken aback, clearly not being at the other end of the charm offensive. "Hhm, well you are a pliant sort, aren't you. Personally, I prefer men with a little more spirit, but I suppose diplomacy has its options."

Murphy can hear the battle outside, but Pressi is able to communicate that she's fine. Outside, it's clear despite the spell ballet that the sister just wants to keep Pressi busy (and she can rather hold her own).

The sister watching Murphy just continues to watch in silence.

"Still, I'm curious as to what you hoped to get out of such a meeting. A dream of reconciliation with the daughter that rejected us? A hope that I would somehow provide my blessing to either of you? The hope that despite all the stories coming out of dirt city, we would prove to be just as ordinary as your family?

"Or maybe it's something else? Maybe you've been seeking reassurances yourself, hoping that you haven't made a mistake. Knowing, deep down, that you won't be enough when Pressi's true nature begins to appear. Thinking that somewhere under all the spell slinging and cackling, you'll learn she is someone OTHER than a woman with designs to rule the world and the lineage to do so. Or maybe, deep down, thinking maybe you need a woman just like that, no matter what you say to the outside world."

Yamyra looked straight at Murphy. "Let me reassure you. Deep down, she is as evil as any of us. That deep pull to harm, to trick, to gain power and fame? She may protest and fight, but her nature will take over. You think you know ornery? You haven't seen ornery."

The Kezz'm (BrianW) - AC 39/20/34; HP 219/219; Rumpus AC 32/15/27 HP 95/95 
Wednesday October 7th, 2020 11:25:47 PM
"Well, I guess I don't need to prepare that spell then either," says Kezzem.

He offers Bliss 750 gp to help reimburse him for his wand purchases.

Murphy Leafwin Pipewood(KimMc) Halfling Druid - AC 33/T-23/Fl-29 CMD 37 HP 174  d10=3 ;
Thursday October 8th, 2020 12:26:45 AM

Grotto fencing
"Nearly everyone has the capacity to do evil, or good. To turn toward darkness, or light," Murphy begins. "To treat others well, or poorly. We will be held accountable for our choices. You, mother of my love, and I, both will face judgment.

"'The parents have eaten sour grapes, and the children’s teeth are set on edge.' Is that what you're saying? A child may walk in the way of the parents, or choose - albeit, perhaps, with difficulty - to walk in another way. If I begin in righteousness, yet end in evil, I should be judged for my end, not that of my forbears who did well. If I begin in evil, yet repent and walk in righteousness, I may receive forgiveness, mercy, and justification - even if my parents walked in darkness their whole life, and rejected the light when it was offered to them.

"My family is 'ordinary'? It seems extraordinary to me. If all those about you are a certain way, how are you not ordinary if you do exactly as they do? Are all from Dirt City wicked? Why not be different from them, then? The option of changing one's mind can be available at times, no? Don't get swallowed up in Dirt-City-ordinary, if there is a better way."

"I trust Pressi, despite the temptations we all may face, to ever move toward what is right. I bear witness to her having done so over the past few years.

"Life is complex. I won't pretend every choice is facile. True wisdom is a hard-fought attribute.

"We can banter, Mother of Pressi and her siblings. But what do I want? I want to join for life with Pressi, and join where I may with you, her family, and for her to do so with my family. What do I aim for? Good domesticity. What do you want?

"Iron sharpens iron. Let us sharpen one another. But not slice each other up." ... "Mother Yamyra. Who changed Pressi's diapers?"

Murphy Leafwin Pipewood(KimMc) Halfling Druid - AC 33/T-23/Fl-29 CMD 37 HP 174  d20+24=35 ; d12=11 ;
Thursday October 8th, 2020 2:43:19 AM

Murphy takes about half an hour to join Diara over with Quercus.

"Hallo Druid Murphy" the large oak intones. "Diara is charming. Diara, do you speak the sylvan tongue? Not many do. We can practice, if you'd like."

Murphy joins in speaking sylvan for a few sentences. If she does not understand, he translates. If she does understand, he enjoys the opening conversation. Then he says, "I have spent some time on different planes, studying some of their characteristics. Would you mind if I were to go into a bit more depth with you on this pocket plane?" He spends time learned what more he can from her about this particular plane, its inhabitants, foliage, characteristics. He uses his fairly extensive knowledge of planar variants to delve more deeply into this one [Knowledge, Planes: 35]. If ideas for additional preparations the group might take arise from the interview, he passes them on to other members of the Sword.

Then he heads off to the Catacombs via the General Store in town.

DM Kathy 
Thursday October 8th, 2020 4:02:25 PM
Bliss has a wand of lesser restoration. Concerned about the Instant Fortress, Mookie asks Diara about incorporeal undead. Of course, she already told you there were wraiths. "There were wraiths," she says now. "But everything else was corporeal. A pack of ghouls, a few zombies. Some creatures--we never did figure out what they were." Bliss casts a couple of Contingency spells.

Succotash is doing Plane Shift calculations. He wonders whether Hobie might be able to cast from a scroll, so that Succotash doesn't have to go back and forth. A scroll for Hobie would be higher level, and therefore more expensive, but it would probably be better overall.

Kezzem, having just spent a bunch in the Catacombs, doesn't have much to contribute toward a wand, and is relieved to learn that Bliss already has one. He offers his coin anyway.

Murphy speaks with Quercus and Diara. The rogue does not speak Sylvan, but Murphy translates. You ask Diara more about the plane, but she's told you what she knows. "Elora's the smart one," she says. "She's the one who found out about the plane and suggested we go there." You haven't heard of this specific plane, but that's not surprising. There are lots of these pocket realms, and each is really a world unto itself. If you had a month or so, you could probably research it, but you don't have a month.

Succotash (Jeremy) AC 32/17/30 CMD 21 HP 115/115 Valerie AC 38/16/33 CMD 28 HP 109/109 Spells 
Thursday October 8th, 2020 5:55:54 PM
Succotash returns from the Catacombs and shows everyone his new wand of searing light. "I got this sucker maxed out, so against the undead it should be pretty effective, assuming I can hit my target of course. I also got a couple of scrolls of Plane Shift. I haven't heard back from Hobie, but I'm hoping he'll pick up a couple also, that will make the trip, there and back, a lot smoother. Otherwise, I'll have to run back and purchase 4 more scrolls, and I'll have to take everyone in two trips, which will work, assuming we don't get jumped upon arrival, or need to make a hasty return."

Pressi (Melvin) - AC 26 (31), HP 132, CMD 25; Harper AC 30 (35), HP 94, CMD 29 (34) 
Thursday October 8th, 2020 9:20:18 PM

After the business with the grotto and more preparations, Pressi finally gets some briefings on what they are up against.

"Ok, a couple of observations. First, we are doing a good job about the undead, but we seem to have forgotten the fae part of the pocket plane. People who wander off are in enchantment or illusion territory, and the place itself may be a maze. Better add "divination counters" to my shopping list (for Find the Path). I don't have much in the way of protections beforehand, so we'll have to focus on the will saves and beating them at their game.

"As for undead, I do have a few options. I can upgrade weapons, control undead, hand out death wards and "hide from undead" spells, along with some of the other tricks like summons or ill omen. Though I will need to hold on to some spells for divinations and the occasional far less healing. Good thing I actually picked up some melee stuff, but I'm open to further suggestions to buy. And everyone should remember to pick up extra healing supplies. There could be some long fights ahead."

She does begin to worry about what happens when the spell slots run out. But she personally should be fine as long as she's judicious in her casting.

Pressi (Melvin) - AC 26 (31), HP 132, CMD 25; Harper AC 30 (35), HP 94, CMD 29 (34) 
Thursday October 8th, 2020 9:53:10 PM

This may or may not be what he was going for, but a lot of what Murphy said - in that calm, pleasant demeanor - began to make Yamyra madder. (Murphy did get a couple of chuckles out of the stone faced sister, though.)

"We had people for the diapers, and a couple of men bent to our will, really don't need to go into the details. Just know a weapon is useless if you can't even threaten with it. Oh, but who am I to lecture about the power of words to someone with such a gifted tongue.

"And do not speak of me as ordinary because I didn't change the world. I saw the world for what it was, and I rode it, and it was glorious. But in the end, I did what I did for my family... and then that ungrateful street rat you so idealize struck iron against us first, damaged us in ways you cannot even begin to appreciate.

"And then you come to... What? Join us? Convert us? Make us see the light? I almost feel sorry for you, a true believer. But Pressi has always known deep down the truth about a lot of things. She is the living embodiment that a single random act can wipe out a number of good deeds."

She smiled, twisting the red liquid in her goblet. "Garron, wasn't it? She walks in a monk of justice and honor, and how does she walk out again? Tsk, such a seemingly random event. But tell me. If she were truly as you describe, a simple failure of a soul gem wouldn't have such an effect, would it? That arcane darkness, that is her true form, just as we predicted...."

From the top of the grotto, a black dragon burst through a wall. "Where is she?" Pressi demanded.

But Murphy and Pressi were now alone.

The Kezz'm (BrianW) - AC 39/20/34; HP 219/219; Rumpus AC 32/15/27 HP 95/95 
Thursday October 8th, 2020 11:38:53 PM
"I could head back to the catacombs and pick up a second healing wand," offers Kezzem (assuming Bliss hasn't taken the last of his coin).

Bliss HP165/165 AC32 | Mookie HP76/76 AC41 | Cayzle 
Friday October 9th, 2020 10:30:01 AM
Bliss has not taken Kezzem's coin! "Nah, thanks but no thanks! I got plenty of my own still!"

Bliss tries to think about fey and what you need to fight them. Cold iron, right? Will his Amulet of Mighty Fists +5 work like cold iron to get past damage reduction? "Does anyone know about that stuff? Arcane lore? Fey stuff?"

"I'm never really studied that stuff!" (Bliss has no knowledge ranks.)

"What other stuff do we know about fey and undead?"

The Kezz'm (BrianW) - AC 39/20/34; HP 219/219; Rumpus AC 32/15/27 HP 95/95 
Friday October 9th, 2020 12:47:22 PM
"Okay, I'll get that healing wand then," says Kezzem.

DM Kathy 
Friday October 9th, 2020 3:03:12 PM
You continue to make preparations. Succotash returns from the Catacombs with his scrolls, still unclear whether Hobie will be able to help with the plane shifting. [If he does agree, your DM will let you share the planar fork, so don't worry about that.]

Pressi advises stocking up on healing, and finding ways to boost Will saves.

Kezzem heads for the Catacombs to get another healing wand.

Bliss wonders aloud about fae. Diara doesn't seem to think her group encountered anything specifically fae, but that doesn't mean there aren't any there.

The Kezz'm (BrianW) - AC 39/20/34; HP 219/219; Rumpus AC 32/15/27 HP 95/95 
Saturday October 10th, 2020 1:23:12 PM
"I can prepare some protection spells that can help ward of mental effects," says Kezzem. "Assuming they come from an evil source that is."

Murphy Leafwin Pipewood(KimMc) Halfling Druid - AC 33/T-23/Fl-29 CMD 37 HP 174 
Sunday October 11th, 2020 3:11:56 AM

Grotto - A change of audience
As Yamyra spoke, Murphy was attentive to what she said in reply. He nodded acknowledgment of some things, agreement with others. His eyes showed interest as she spoke of riding the world, and he wondered at what things she may have done, and how whatever it was served to benefit her family.

What did she mean by indicating Pressi 'struck iron' against them? Against her family? What things had they done, had her mother done, which would have moved her towards, towards whatever action it was she took?

He had hoped to continue the conversation, and explore further how they might weave together ...

A black dragon. How did he know she was Pressi?

Murphy looks at where Yamyra stood a moment before. Up at where a sister had been observing - vacillating between stony stare and tacit amusement.

"Hi. They disappeared upon your bold entrance, sweets. The conversation was just getting interesting. I've never seen you in that form before, Pressi.

"It will be well beyond fascinating to get to know your family better, I dare say. Now, who was keeping you busy? And, who came with your mother?" He describes the sister who had stood above him and Yamyra. "I didn't get many names."

Murphy takes bits of moss from other places around the stone island and places it where Yamyra had stood. Then he casts plant growth in that specific area, to compensate for the withering effect the older woman had when she was there.

"Now that you're here - I have a picnic for you. And many questions. Would you like to change into something, uh, more comfortable, first?"

Murphy Leafwin Pipewood(KimMc) Halfling Druid - AC 33/T-23/Fl-29 CMD 37 HP 174 
Sunday October 11th, 2020 4:39:45 AM

Grotto addition

Murphy relates what they said to him. And asks how they kept her away. And puts his arm around her, if she returns to halfling form.

What are the fey like?
"Well, Bliss, according to Eberyon, we, we halflings, are fae in a sense. At least that's what he told Kendry, Airin, Selithe, Morpth, Olo, Patterton, and a bunch of others who witnessed his rebirth as a satyr some years ago.

"I serve Eberyon. He says that the Jericko, the creator, took bits and pieces to form us hobbits. Here is how he put it, according to what Kendry wrote in his journal."
'After the creator finished his journey, he pondered about creating another race that had all the positive aspects of all his other races. A group he could be content with ... a race that pleased him completely. So the creator began his journey again and visited the fey in the forests. He seized a sprite and bound her with magic. The creator then revisited each race again and took from them a portion of what they were. From the elves he took agility and grace. He added it to the fey and it grew. From the dwarves he took devotion to family and added it to the sprite and she began to grow and change. Boldness and fearlessness he takes from the orcs and the fey grew even larger. The creator visited the humans once again and took from them the spark of creativity and the ability to adapt. After all these thing are collected, the creator adds them to the fey and the hobbit was born. A tall, strong, formidable creature that knew no fear. Who had bold ambitions and the creativity to do what they will.

'The creator stood back and admired his craftsmanship. So very pleased he was. And great favor he bestowed on his beloved hobbits. The other races grew jealous and fearful of such a race and made war against them. The creator, in his ultimate wisdom, sought to halt the hostility by making his beloved hobbits smaller in size to lessen the threat they imposed on others. This made the hobbits more elusive to their enemies. It taught them to hide and use the shadows for cover. Gave them patience and cunning. Peace was soon restored and the creator was satisfied. After deciding that his work was complete, the Jericko stepped away from the Wold and rested.'"
So, you see, Bliss, we, in part, are fey. 'All hobbits were created from the body of a fey,' Eberyon told them. Though, I suppose, with enough other bits mixed together that I don't think we are especially susceptible to cold iron - at least no more so than other iron.

"But the fey usually have some sort of exceptional ability. Supernatural, perhaps? And a connection to nature, or to a particular force or place. Tricky, capricious, generous, cruel. Some may be friendly. Some are good at engendering confusion. Some help those they favor. Brownies, sprites, dryads, nereids, nixies, leprechauns, spriggans, satyrs, redcaps, pixies, grig, gremlins, kelpies - those are all fey. Many more types there are.

"Not sure the best way to prepare for them. Keep your wits about you, and mind each other. We also could rope up to keep one or more of us from wandering off without others knowing."

Succotash (Jeremy) AC 32/17/30 CMD 21 HP 115/115 Valerie AC 38/16/33 CMD 28 HP 109/109 Spells 
Sunday October 11th, 2020 3:37:57 PM
"I say we concentrate more on what we know for sure, and speculate less on things we don't." Succotash begins. "For example, we know for sure that we need to get there first, and Hobie seems reluctant to help me make that happen, so I'm wondering if I have to head back to the catacombs to pick up a few more scrolls, and we know that the place is infested with undead, and if an undead infestation becomes to big, there is a distinct possibility that that is all there is left. We don't know that for sure of course, but even if there is some living fey still, chances are they would thank us for any thinning of the undead numbers, as even killing one increases their chance of survival."

DM Kathy 
Monday October 12th, 2020 1:38:54 PM
Kezzem offers to prepare spells to help against evil mind affects.

Murphy goes over what he knows about fae. But, as Succotash points out, the main problem seems to be undead.

The other Swords are strangely silent.

Succotash (Jeremy) AC 32/17/30 CMD 21 HP 115/115 Valerie AC 38/16/33 CMD 28 HP 109/109 Spells 
Monday October 12th, 2020 5:11:40 PM
Succotash is waiting for a response from Hobie. If Hobie is able to help with the plane shifting, he is ready to do, and lets his friends know, however, if Hobie is unable to help, he needs to make a second trip to the Catacombs, before he is ready to take everyone to the pocket dimension.

The Kezz'm (BrianW) - AC 39/20/34; HP 219/219; Rumpus AC 32/15/27 HP 95/95 
Monday October 12th, 2020 7:20:42 PM
"Okay chums, let's do this," says Kezzem trying to get the ball rolling. "Kezzzzzzzzzzzzzem Blacklynggggggggggg."

He runs off in a random direction, and after running for about twenty yards, stops and turns around and walks back to the group.

"Um, which way to go?"

Murphy Leafwin Pipewood(KimMc) Halfling Druid - AC 33/T-23/Fl-29 CMD 37 HP 174 
Monday October 12th, 2020 10:26:01 PM

"Hobie - can you help with reading the plane shifting scrolls, as Succotash was suggesting? I might be able to do it via use magic device, but I'll bet you'd do better than I," Murphy says.

"Meanwhile, I've got a few things percolating in the Catacombs..."

Bliss HP165/165 AC32 | Mookie HP76/76 AC41 | Cayzle 
Monday October 12th, 2020 11:54:40 PM

Bliss rises with a happy yawn. "Thank you for the bedtime stories, Mister Murphy! Better than warm milk, they are!"

After rising, Bliss performs his rituals with all the members of the Coven. He uses the Sharing and Grimalkin rituals himself, and Mookie helps with Pressi's Warding basic ritual (I'm assuming that's your basic ritual, Pressi!) He is fully kited out in his new gear.

[OOC: It was a daunting task, but my main PC sheet is now up to date. As is Mookie's. I have to double check the CatBliss sheet.]

Bliss casts his usual buff spells too: Threefold Form on himself and Mookie, Extended Barkskin on both, Shield of Faith for the Ritual of Sharing, and the daily Hero's Breakfast. Those last four are boosted with witch magic that costs him 40 hp, but Granny and the other Adepts of the Coven fix that up in short order.

[OOC: Everybody please remember to roll 1d8+7 temp hit points for your character! Please recall that HF grants a +1 morale bonus on attack rolls and Will saves and a +4 morale bonus on saving throws against poison and fear effects]

After breakfast, Bliss is all set. "Okay are we ready to go? I'm ready."

Two rounds before the Plane Shift is cast, Bliss taps himself and Mookie with the Death Ward wand. In the round before he changes into a cat.

Hobie (Nick T) HP 189/181 AC 33 Touch 19 Flat 27 CMD 37 Hero Points 8 Prepared Spells  d8+7=8 ;
Tuesday October 13th, 2020 3:55:16 AM
ooc: Bliss, so that Heroes Breakfast is a ritual you do every day? and it gives us a +1 on attack rolls every day? basicially permanent?
Hobie gets 8 temporary HP

"Succotash, I absolutely can cast Plane shift from a scroll with you, the only caveat is this, I've practice with scrolls and I know my chance of success for spells I haven't learned. With Plane Shift, I have a 35% chance of failing, which is no problem, I can just try again, EXCEPT, after failing to activate the scroll, theres another 25% chance that I REALLY failed, and the spell can react in an unpredictable way. If it was something like Cone of Cold, and we all had full HP, we could just heal up and laugh about it later, but with PLANE SHIFT...... It could end up taking some but not all of us to the intended location, or it could take all of us to a completely unintended plane. Quite risky."

"So Mathematically, I calculate that we've got a 65% chance it works great, a 26% chance that we just have to repeat the process, and a 9% chance that it goes quite poorly. Remember that I'm the Wold's Greatest Archer, when it comes to the arcane, I'm more of a hobbyist."

"Is it worth the risk? Or should we just teleport to a large city where we could hire a more experienced spellcaster to do it for us?"

Hobie (Nick T) HP 189/181 AC 33 Touch 19 Flat 27 CMD 37 Hero Points 8 Prepared Spells 
Tuesday October 13th, 2020 4:08:32 AM
"Hold on, I made a mistake in my calculations, Here are the accurate ones."

Success- 75%
Try Again - 19%
Bad News- 6%

Bliss HP165/165 AC32 | Mookie HP76/76 AC41 | Cayzle 
Tuesday October 13th, 2020 6:01:28 AM
OOC: Yes, we have Hero's Breakfast every day, as a rule! There's bacon and mushrooms!

Succotash (Jeremy) AC 32/17/30 CMD 21 HP 115/115 Valerie AC 38/16/33 CMD 28 HP 109/109 Spells 
Tuesday October 13th, 2020 7:03:04 AM
”I completely forgot about the possibility of things going bad, I’ll run back to the Catacombs and pick up 4 more scrolls, and we’ll have go in two trips, well for me it will be three, but that’s another story.”

Succotash (Jeremy) AC 32/17/30 CMD 21 HP 115/115 Valerie AC 38/16/33 CMD 28 HP 109/109 Spells 
Tuesday October 13th, 2020 10:04:22 AM
”I completely forgot about the possibility of things going bad, I’ll run back to the Catacombs and pick up 4 more scrolls, and we’ll have go in two trips, well for me it will be three, but that’s another story.”

Pressi (Melvin) - AC 26 (31), HP 132, CMD 25; Harper AC 30 (35), HP 94, CMD 29 (34) 
Tuesday October 13th, 2020 1:00:19 PM
Pressi points out that she can do the plane shift scroll (UMD 28 and she has a few tricks to boost that if needed.)

She also points out that they aren't going to buy their way out of all problems. Scouting and divinations are going to be key for this mission, as is avoiding battle where they can.

DM Kathy 
Tuesday October 13th, 2020 3:01:34 PM
Kezzem screams his name and runs off in a random direction, but it doesn't go well. At least he has chicken.

Hobie does some math to demonstrate that maybe having him try to activate a scroll of Plane Shift isn't a great idea.

Resigned, Succotash plans on acquiring four more scrolls, but since Pressi may be able to activate one, he may only need to get two more.

Murphy also has things he needs from the Catacombs.

The next day, Bliss casts a Heroes' Feast for his companions, and you start your last-minute preparations.

Succotash (Jeremy) AC 32/17/30 CMD 21 HP 115/115 Valerie AC 38/16/33 CMD 28 HP 109/109 Spells 
Tuesday October 13th, 2020 5:52:31 PM
"I'll just go get 4 scrolls to be on the safe side. Even with your skill at figuring magical devices out Pressi, their is still the catastrophic failure option, and I'm not comfortable with that, especially since I can do it worry free." Succotash then runs off to the catacombs to purchase the need scrolls. in the morning he rises ready to depart.

OOC.. I placed the order this morning, just waiting for it to be processed.

Pressi (Melvin) - AC 26 (31), HP 132, CMD 25; Harper AC 30 (35), HP 94, CMD 29 (34) 
Tuesday October 13th, 2020 9:40:52 PM

Pressi considers a last minute divination, but I'm going to give the DM a break.

Most of her preparations are somewhat haphazard, as she's still rather rattled from her family the literal supervillains dropping by. As best as she can tell, Murphy held his own, and she has no idea how he did that but it freaks her out.

The big thing, besides yet another nice weapon, is that she loaded up on divination materials. In hindsight, she wished she could afford some other things like more buffing and invisibility scrolls. But money was tight as usual... and she figured that she can always make due with what resources she has, whatever they may be.

She just hoped the paladin beefsticks understood they couldn't afford to get hit as often, and that they had a backup strategy in mind. Then again, her own backup strategy once the spells ran out was to beefstick away so...

Bliss HP165/165 AC32 | Mookie HP76/76 AC41 | Cayzle 
Wednesday October 14th, 2020 5:56:06 AM
"Good luck to us!"

The Kezz'm (BrianW) - AC 39/20/34; HP 219/219; Rumpus AC 32/15/27 HP 95/95 
Wednesday October 14th, 2020 8:56:27 AM
"Okay, got my spells prepared. Got a couple of protection spells in case anyone gets enchanted, got a couple of divine favors ready to boost my attacks, good all shield other spells so I can tank your damage, a couple of prayers for the group, and a holy sword for the big bad evil guy."

Hobie (Nick T) HP 189/181 AC 33 Touch 19 Flat 27 CMD 37 Hero Points 8 Prepared Spells 
Wednesday October 14th, 2020 11:31:17 AM
Out of nowhere, Kezzem feels a friendly punch to his stomach as Hobie suddenly appears.

"All that preparation, and you still can't see the inivisible enemy right in front of you. I got a new ring!"

CDM Jerry [OOC post] 
Wednesday October 14th, 2020 12:33:07 PM
Kim, sir you have email. :) Kathy, you were cced. Once you've read your mail, Kim, you may ask Kathy to remove this OOC post.

::waves at everyone::

Ruin


DM Kathy 
Wednesday October 14th, 2020 3:30:57 PM
Succotash and Murphy return from the Catacombs with their last-minute purchases. Hobie shows off his new invisibility ring.

Pressi completes last-minute preparations; Bliss and Kezzem are already ready.

You bid a last farewell to Diara, and, after Succotash uses a few scrolls, you find yourselves standing in a bleak landscape under a threatening sky. Nothing grows here but scrubby grass, and there are ruins dotted here and there as far as you can see. This and this is the kind of thing you see.

You are headed for a particular ruined complex, several buildings surrounding crumbling stone courtyard. Following Diara's directions, you begin heading that way.

DM Kathy 
Wednesday October 14th, 2020 3:31:24 PM
Succotash and Murphy return from the Catacombs with their last-minute purchases. Hobie shows off his new invisibility ring.

Pressi completes last-minute preparations; Bliss and Kezzem are already ready.

You bid a last farewell to Diara, and, after Succotash uses a few scrolls, you find yourselves standing in a bleak landscape under a threatening sky. Nothing grows here but scrubby grass, and there are ruins dotted here and there as far as you can see. This and this is the kind of thing you see.

You are headed for a particular ruined complex, several buildings surrounding crumbling stone courtyard. Following Diara's directions, you begin heading that way.

Succotash (Jeremy) AC 32/17/30 CMD 21 HP 115/115 Valerie AC 38/16/33 CMD 28 HP 109/109 Spells  d20+26=33 ; d20+10=18 ;
Wednesday October 14th, 2020 5:21:51 PM
Before departure, Succotash says, Welcome to the Slenderstick express. I'll be your captain Succotash Slenderstick. Please keep a firm grasp on the hand, talon, paw, wing or hoof of the creature next to you for the duration of the trip. Our ETA should be be less than a second from now." Less than a second later, The first group arrives, and then he returns and transports the second group a moment later.

When everyone is in the pocket dimension, Succotash says, "And I thought our temple was a fixer upper!" He keeps his eyes peeled for any unwelcome guests, and asks Valerie to do like wise.

Succotash's Perception= 33
Valerie's Perception= 18

The Kezz'm (BrianW) - AC 39/20/34; HP 219/219; Rumpus AC 32/15/27 HP 95/95  d20=16 ;
Wednesday October 14th, 2020 7:06:45 PM
OOC: Even with him flat-footed, it's still about a 50/50 chance for invisible Hobie to hit Kezzem with a melee attack. Rolled a d20 to see if he actually hits. He's good with a 16.

"Maybe not, Hobie, but I'm hard to hit, can take a lot of damage, and can heal myself while smiting whatever hit me, so I do pretty good. By the way, punching your friends is a pretty evil thing. I better check you out. Wouldn't want to get confused and smite you by mistake."

Kezzem will Detect Evil on Hobie.

Bliss HP165/165 AC32 | Mookie HP76/76 AC41 | Cayzle 
Wednesday October 14th, 2020 8:30:19 PM

A strange hiccupping comes from Bliss in cat shape.

Mookie says, "Yeah, yeah, the paladin gets off a funny. Good job, per usual."

Highlight to display spoiler: {Mookie is feeling a bit jealous that Kezzem makes Bliss laugh. "When the Kid was young, it was me he laughed at," the bird thinks.

"I'm not jealous!" Mookie telepaths back to Bliss.}

Pressi (Melvin) - AC 26 (31), HP 132, CMD 25; Harper AC 30 (35), HP 94, CMD 29 (34)  d20+25=36 ;
Wednesday October 14th, 2020 9:57:17 PM
"This is kind of creepy, even for me," Pressi admits. "Someone really needs to fire their maid service."

Could be worse, Pressi thought. She had a mass planar adaptation ready to go for some of those things.

Before a single step is made, Pressi begins to cast detect magic and takes a look around (perception 37+1 for traps). She considers others (shield of faith, flying broom, spectral hand) but she hopes to get a lay of the land first.

---------------

Pressi
Ritual of Warding
Ritual of Spiritual Healing
Heroes Feast (from Bliss)

Harper
Ritual of Warding
Heroes Feast (from Bliss)

Hobie (Nick T) HP 189/181 AC 33 Touch 19 Flat 27 CMD 37 Hero Points 8 Prepared Spells 
Thursday October 15th, 2020 3:26:11 AM
Hobie does not detect as evil.

“I think I’ve heard of this place. I think it’s called Scott’s Land. As bleak as it looks now, they supposedly have some really great biscuits.”

Hobie will sit back and let his wiser mates get their bearings. He has his bow drawn and is looking out for any signs of danger.

Succotash (Jeremy) AC 32/17/30 CMD 21 HP 115/115 Valerie AC 38/16/33 CMD 28 HP 109/109 Spells 
Thursday October 15th, 2020 6:03:22 AM
"I've heard of this Scott's Land, Hobie, I hear they spell whiskey without the "e", which seems rather silly to me. Sadly I don't think this is that place, but upon seeing this place I think I could use a shot of whiskey, with or without the "e"."

Bliss HP165/165 AC32 | Mookie HP76/76 AC41 | Cayzle 
Thursday October 15th, 2020 7:14:16 AM

Bliss keeps on hiccupping cat laughs.

Mookie looks disgusted. "Oh, now everybody's a comedian!"

Murphy Leafwin Pipewood(KimMc) Halfling Druid - AC 40/T-23/Fl-35 CMD 37 HP 174 
Thursday October 15th, 2020 8:37:44 AM
[busy, ill... catching up]

Before departure, Murphy recommended that the party gather for prayer and petitions in the area of the Sanctuary with shrines to various powers and deities. As they prepare to go to a place of the fae, he prays in the shrine of Eberyon, King of the Fae. He asks for insight and protection for him and the group, for guidance to find them who need rescue. At the adjacent shrine of Maab, he also seeks her favor and wisdom. Next to Lady Justice, whom Pressi serves, on the other side of Eberyon's shrine. He spends a few minutes at each of the other areas - for Pantheon, whom Succotash serves, Domi, Flower, Ffloy (and there he thinks briefly on Bliss's new town proposal), Wardd, Alemi, Kevintar, Gargul, the Culverwood, and last at the new shrine of Kerracles.

Then, prayed up, he joins his friends, and finds himself whisked away to a new realm.

After taking in a 360-degree view of where they landed, the druid with engineering tastes admires some of the ancient stonework, and wonders at how long it might have been since what are now ruins had been serviceable and dwelt in. "Say, before we go far, I have a suggestion. It may or may not be of benefit, but, as Diara explained her mates just wandering this way and that, separating from each other," and here he pulls out the silk rope used by the group up on the moon called Kerracles, "what do you say about us hanging on to this rope as we go along? I'll bring up the rear and keep an eye on the rest of us. If someone gets an urge to let go of the rope and wander off, well at least we will have an early warning."

Murphy takes the light, strong rope, with ready loops through which to place an arm or wrist or hand, and offers it to each person. If some decline, he does not object, yet does recommend, "Well, at least, please remain close."
==========
Heroes Feast (from Bliss)
& other stuff...

Hobie (Nick T) HP 189/181 AC 33 Touch 19 Flat 27 CMD 37 Hero Points 8 Prepared Spells 
Thursday October 15th, 2020 12:43:30 PM
without another word, Hobie will pull a bottle of whisk(e)y from his bag, take a swig, and hand it to Succotash.

Succotash (Jeremy) AC 32/17/30 CMD 21 HP 115/115 Valerie AC 38/16/33 CMD 28 HP 109/109 Spells 
Thursday October 15th, 2020 12:51:58 PM
Succotash excepts Hobie’s offer without a word but he does chuckle a bit.

DM Kathy 
Thursday October 15th, 2020 3:30:08 PM
Upon your arrival, Pressi immediately casts Detect Magic and looks around. The only magic you see is what's on your companions. You check for traps, but you are standing on a random patch of ground. It would be unusual to find traps out here. Once you get inside the ruins, traps are more likely.

Succotash and Valerie also look around, but see nothing untoward. Well, you're in a bleak, desolate landscape rumored to be full of undead, but other than that.

Hobie thinks the place is similar to Scott's Land, although Scott's Land isn't known for harboring undead.

Murphy suggests everyone hold onto a rope, though you are still a little ways from the actual ruin that Diara and her group were exploring.

Cat-Bliss gives a few cat laughs to his friends' clowning, but is otherwise silent because cat.

You make your way to the specific ruins Diara described--several tumbledown buildings surrounding a courtyard. You can see that some of the buildings are little more than piles of stone; some have two or three walls still standing.

Based on Diara's description, you know approximately where two of her companions wandered off. You also know where she lost her remaining companions after hearing screams. Which location do you want to investigate first?

The Kezz'm (BrianW) - AC 39/20/34; HP 219/219; Rumpus AC 32/15/27 HP 95/95 
Thursday October 15th, 2020 6:09:21 PM
"Guys, quit joking around, this is serious stuff," says Kezzem.

"Press, you are our resident spooky expert, so why don't you pick which direction to go?"



Succotash (Jeremy) AC 32/17/30 CMD 21 HP 115/115 Valerie AC 38/16/33 CMD 28 HP 109/109 Spells 
Thursday October 15th, 2020 7:17:50 PM
“Normally, I would vote to go towards the screams, but since it’s been a while, I think our chances of finding survivors would be greater if we went in search of the wanderers”.

Pressi (Melvin) - AC 26 (31), HP 132, CMD 25; Harper AC 30 (35), HP 94, CMD 29 (34)  d20+26=32 ;
Thursday October 15th, 2020 9:18:12 PM
Pressi starts by telling people to detect evil away from her... towards the ruins. No evil to be detected here.

Pressi thinks where to start. The ruins are an obvious starting place, but also an obvious trap. She tries to see if she recognizes the ruins as ancient or magical (Know Arcana 32) but she's unskilled in planar, religion or engineering. She continues to detect magic, seeing if anything pings.

"Normally, I'd start with a lay of the land. A flyby, divinations, prying eyes, anything that could give us an edge. But I won't start such casting without group approval, given our limited resources and the time sensitivity.

"I'm not confident about finding survivors unless they've actually been captured for some purpose. I'm also not keen on walking directly into a trap. Which means I actually want to go towards the screams, where I am hopeful we will find more clues than remaining monsters. We need scouting, trap searching, and I'm actually going to cast "hide from undead" on the group now. I want to hold on to detect thoughts for the time being."

(She casts "hide from undead".)

Bliss HP165/165 AC32 | Mookie HP76/76 AC41 | Cayzle  d20+21=29 ;
Thursday October 15th, 2020 11:00:55 PM

Cat-Bliss sniffs around with his cat-nose. He shifts to the form of an old and scarred tom cat (threefold form) and tries to pick up the scent of Diara or her friends. Or anything living in this sad place, honestly.

Survival to track by scent: 29

He tells Mookie, and Mookie the group, about anything found.

Murphy Leafwin Pipewood(KimMc) Halfling Druid - AC 40/T-23/Fl-35 CMD 37 HP 174  d20+21=31 ; d20+20=37 ; d20+7=27 ; d20+7=12 ; d20+21=33 ; d20+38=44 ; d20+13=14 ; d20+21=41 ;
Friday October 16th, 2020 1:52:02 AM

Surveillance Afficionado
As no one seems interested in the holding the rope idea, the druid quickly recoils it and places it back in his bag.

"I can perform some flyover surveillance, Pressi. I'll go air elemental, and see what I can see. Anyone want to fly with? Oh, and, though the undead will not be able to see us, any local fae may."

If someone can render him invisible, good. If not, then not.

Murphy will gather information through reliance on his perception, and going into analysis mode, using his training in engineering, the planes, on nature, religion (see rolls below). He tries to apprehend what he can about their environs, including applying tracking abilities via his survival skills to discern if there are signs of recent foot travel in the area.

Whether alone or with another, and if none object, the druid wildshapes into a huge air elemental, and flies up into the air, going first over the screaming area, passing back to Pressi mentally what he can see, discern, discover.

And, should nothing untoward immediately arise as the result of his flyover, he next flies over the other area where the companions wandered off. Reporting back, then returning to the group.

==========
Heroes' Feast
Hide from Undead (Undead cannot see, hear, or smell creatures warded by this spell. Even extraordinary or supernatural sensory capabilities, such as blindsense, blindsight, scent, and tremorsense, cannot detect or locate warded creatures.)
Knowledge (Engineering): 31
Knowledge (Nature): 37
Knowledge (Religion): 27
Knowledge (The Planes): 33
Perception: 44
Profession (Engineer): 14
Survival: 41 (looking for signs of footprints, or of someone being dragged in the area he overflies)

Succotash (Jeremy) AC 32/17/30 CMD 21 HP 115/115 Valerie AC 38/16/33 CMD 28 HP 109/109 Spells  d8+6=13 ; d8+6=14 ;
Friday October 16th, 2020 6:32:26 AM
Succotash casts longstrider and air walk on Valerie and then saddles up. "Valerie and I will join you on the recon mission, Murph. (Valerie can move 70 ft per round, but since she will be double moving 140ft per round) Please stay close so I can get us away quickly if things get ugly."

Active spells and daily uses:
Succotash:
hero's feast (13 temp hp)
speak with animals 19/19
dimensional hop 160ft/160ft
channel energy 9/9
agile feet 12/12

Valerie
hero's feast (14 temp hp)
air walk 959/960
longstrider

Hobie (Nick T) HP 189/181 AC 33 Touch 19 Flat 27 CMD 37 Hero Points 8 Prepared Spells 
Friday October 16th, 2020 11:09:46 AM
"I agree we should go for the wanderers."

Hobie will wait as the scouting team goes off


Murphy Leafwin Pipewood(KimMc) Halfling Druid - AC 40/T-23/Fl-35 CMD 37 HP 174 
Friday October 16th, 2020 11:34:34 AM
"Sounds good. Let's go, Succotash, Valerie!" says Murphy glad for the recon company, as six eyes are better than two. He matches Val's movement for the most part, but occasionally shoots off to one side or another to change the angle of viewing. (His double move is 240, 'run' move is 600).

DM Kathy 
Friday October 16th, 2020 3:31:02 PM
Kezzem and Succotash briefly discuss which direction to go, but Pressi is in favor of some recon first.

Bliss sniffs around. He has an excellent sense of smell as a cat, but it's been a while since Diara and her party were here. You do catch her scent every now and again, along with the scents of others you assume were her companions. It would be very difficult to follow them as a trail, however.

Murphy changes into an air elemental to overfly the area. Succotash gives Valerie Air Walk to follow. The two of them head off to scout. Hobie remains behind, as do the rest of the group (unless somebody changes their mind).

Murphy and Succotash: how high up are you?

Murphy Leafwin Pipewood(KimMc) Halfling Druid - AC 40/T-23/Fl-35 CMD 37 HP 174 
Friday October 16th, 2020 5:21:42 PM
Going out - say 60' to 100'. On the way back, Murphy will go for a higher-in-the-air lookover at a few hundred feet. If people start loosing arrows, he will shoot up higher.

Bliss HP165/165 AC32 | Mookie HP76/76 AC41 | Cayzle 
Friday October 16th, 2020 11:16:56 PM

Well, if Cat-Bliss cannot follow tracks, he at least tries to commit these smells to memory, so that if he comes across a fresher train later, he'll know that its important.

Bliss sends Mookie off to fly with the scouts. His telepathy will let the two teams stay in touch, and Bliss himself turns into a halfling for the moment to relay news.

Mookie passes along anything that Murphy and Succotash report.

Pressi (Melvin) - AC 26 (31), HP 132, CMD 25; Harper AC 30 (35), HP 94, CMD 29 (34)  d20+22=23 ; d20+26=33 ;
Saturday October 17th, 2020 10:10:03 PM
Since the consensus is to focus on the wanderers first, Pressi makes an attempt to follow tracks herself using her relentless tracker method. (Survival 23+8, anyone she tries to track gets a ping.)

As she waits for Murphy to message her (remember that the scouters are hidden from undead), she takes some time to wander the area, looking also for traps and for ancient symbols or other markings to indicate what this place used to be.

If anything comes towards them, she uses her Hide in Plain Sight ability (stealth 33 if there's any dim light). She also uses her remote viewing ability (clairvoyance at a point several yards down in the direction the people went - single round only).

-----------------

---------------

Pressi
Ritual of Warding
Ritual of Spiritual Healing
Heroes Feast (from Bliss)
Hide from Undead

Harper
Ritual of Warding
Heroes Feast (from Bliss)
Hide from Undead

Spells Used

L1: 1
remote viewing: 1


Murphy Leafwin Pipewood(KimMc) Halfling Druid - AC 40/T-23/Fl-35 CMD 37 HP 174  d20+38=40 ;
Sunday October 18th, 2020 8:06:56 PM

Once the flyover has begun, Murphy keeps up a running mental patter with Pressi, telling her of the overview, salient details, areas of concern, signs of movement or habitation, and the like. During his quick side trips, when he returns to Succotash and Mookie, he notes things he witnessed in the side trip, knowing that Mookie will tell Bliss. Between Bliss and Pressi, the rest of the team should have a decent description before the fly-over team returns. In his mind Murphy is planning his sketches of the area.

Along with the earlier perception roll of 44, here's another one of 40. Pretty good, just not Murphy's most acute.

DM Kathy 
Monday October 19th, 2020 1:40:28 PM
[I keep forgetting! Everybody take 17,500 XP for the first scene.]

Murphy and Succotash begin their recon flight. Thanks to her link with Murphy, Pressi hears frequent updates, and can keep the rest of the group apprised. You begin by flying over the area where Diara had heard screaming. You see no signs of life. The stone floor of the ruins is in pretty bad shape, but it is still stone, so it doesn't hold tracks very well. You do occasionally see small flutters of movement, quick and difficult to pin down. Diara had mentioned wraiths; this could be wraiths moving about. You turn and head toward where the party members wandered off. Hmm, interesting. Is that some kind of structure over there? Succotash and Murphy, Highlight to display spoiler: {Make a Will save, DC 36 or begin moving southwest toward that weird structure. Valerie needs to make the save, too. Anybody who fails the save also needs to make a DC 29 Will save. This is mind-affecting, but it is not evil, and does not come from anything undead.}

Bliss is pretty confident he will know these smells if he encounters them again. Mookie flies along with the recon team, providing Bliss with a running commentary. Highlight to display spoiler: {"I keep seeing stuff moving, but it's gone before I can really get a look at it. Didn't that Diary girl say there were wraiths? I'll bet it's wraiths. Or something. Hey, do you suppose it could be lady ravens? Ruins like this would make a great raven stomping ground. Not that ravens do much stomping. Hey, what's that over there? It's like a dome or something." At this point, Mookie needs to make a DC 36 Will save or begin moving southwest toward the dome or whatever it is. Also, if he fails the save he needs to make a second Will save, DC 29. These are mind-affecting effects, but not evil and not from undead.}

Pressi is looking around, but like the others, she finds that the stone floor is not really conducive to tracking. You don't see any signs of traps, and you can't identify any markings or symbols.

Murphy Leafwin Pipewood(KimMc) Halfling Druid - AC 40/T-23/Fl-35 CMD 37 HP 174  d20+24=36 ; d20+16=21 ;
Monday October 19th, 2020 3:07:33 PM

Murphy feels a strong mental compulsion trying to draw him toward the 'weird structure,' but the druid manages through strength of will to overcome it. He touches Succotash to grant him Owl's Wisdom (+4 to Wisdom for 16 minutes) to aid him in his battle of wills versus the compulsion (+2 to the cleric's Will save), and says, 'Resist the urge to go that way, Succotash - some sort of fey trick,' perhaps giving him an additional +2 to his Will save via 'aid another' for a total of +4 (subject to DM ruling). He doubts that Valerie or Mookie will be able to resist, but if the two halflings can rein in their wills, perhaps they can prevent the others from flying off.

If Succotash is not compelled, Murphy will use his much greater size and strength to keep Mookie from moving on ahead and will bring him swift back to the party. Should his non-feathered friend succumb, the next post will try to carry that remedy. Can he huge air-elemental-handle a flying dinosaur, a halfling-sized raven, and a holy cleric?

Murphy keeps Pressi updated on the current situation.

Hobie (Nick T) HP 189/181 AC 33 Touch 19 Flat 27 CMD 37 Hero Points 8 Prepared Spells 
Monday October 19th, 2020 4:09:36 PM
Hobie takes out Katinka's silver dagger and an apple. He carefully peels the apple, trying his best to peel it in one looooooooong piece.

Succotash (Jeremy) AC 32/17/30 CMD 21 HP 115/115 Valerie AC 38/16/33 CMD 28 HP 109/109 Spells  d20+22=33 ; d20+6=25 ; d20+6=8 ; d20+22=38 ; d20+7=26 ;
Monday October 19th, 2020 6:31:42 PM
Since Succotash is wearing a +2 headband, he only gains a +2 to wisdom from Murphy's spell for a +1 to his save. I forgot to add the +1 from heroes feast, so Succotash's roll is 35. If Aid Another is acceptable, he will pass, if not, he will fail. Either way, Valerie fails.

If Succotash passed the saving throw, he will quickly yell to Murphy, "Grab Mookie and hold on to Valerie or me!". Murphy should only have to be touching Mookie, as opposed to having to grapple the bird, and since everyone should be flying fairly close together as per Succotash's request before departure, it should be a relatively easy task. He will then cast teleport to get his friends away from the compulsion. If the aid another isn't valid, Valerie and Succotash will start heading towards the weird structure. Succotash has no problem overcoming the second save, but Valerie fails that one as well.

Murphy Leafwin Pipewood(KimMc) Halfling Druid - AC 40/T-23/Fl-35 CMD 37 HP 174 
Monday October 19th, 2020 6:52:55 PM

Should Succotash request the help outlined, Murphy complies.

Bliss HP165/165 AC32 | Mookie HP76/76 AC41 | Cayzle  d20=12 ; d20=20 ;
Monday October 19th, 2020 8:11:56 PM

Mookie fails the first save but somehow, amazingly, passes the second with a nat 20.

He would not resist being grabbed, unless the kindly DM thinks he would!

If Bliss has an inkling that anything is wrong, he tells his friends, "There's a domed temple building that is a source of trouble! I'm sprinting there!" He changes into a cat and starts sprinting. How far is it?

Pressi (Melvin) - AC 26 (31), HP 132, CMD 25; Harper AC 30 (35), HP 94, CMD 29 (34) 
Monday October 19th, 2020 9:22:41 PM
Pressi passes along the information to others. "Ok, we have a mind effect, attached to some structure... and attached to vision, maybe?"

She hopes so. Her Will is pretty decent but it's not that decent.

Turning to Hobie, she hands him all of the rope that Murphy gathered before, and ties one end around her waist. She takes some time to blindfold herself, telling Hobie that she needs him to pull her back if she guesses wrong. (She can still use Murphy to guide her in the right direction.)

As she gets to a point right before the fliers succumbed, she casts unseen servant and sends him towards the tower. She then proceeds to slow her own speed.

The Kezz'm (BrianW) - AC 39/20/34; HP 219/219; Rumpus AC 32/15/27 HP 95/95 
Tuesday October 20th, 2020 12:45:33 PM
Kezzem summons Rumpus (if he was not already there) and takes off after Bliss on his mount.

Murphy Leafwin Pipewood(KimMc) Halfling Druid - AC 40/T-23/Fl-35 CMD 37 HP 174 
Tuesday October 20th, 2020 1:23:00 PM
When he learns that Bliss and Pressi and others are rushing their way, Murphy mentally 'shouts' to Pressi, "STAY BACK - DO NOT RUSH THIS WAY!! We are coming back to you now. STAY BACK!"

DM Kathy 
Tuesday October 20th, 2020 2:16:15 PM
Murphy is able to withstand the compulsion to move toward the structure. He tries to warn Succotash, but the fascination is too strong, and Succotash can't break out of it. Mookie and Valerie are also affected.

But the intervening few seconds has allowed you to fully grasp what you are looking at. It does look like a structure, but it's not built of stone. It's....some kind of fungus? It looks for all the world like a giant bird cage. A strange glow emanates from within. Oh, and it has tentacles.

For those who can see the thing, Knowledge Nature DC 28 Highlight to display spoiler: {It is a zygomind, a kind of plant creature.}

Cat-Bliss takes off as fast as his kitty feet will run! Kezzem summons Rumpus and prepares to follow.

Pressi gets out the rope and makes ready to follow as well. Murphy warns her not to move, but she's not the one to worry about; it's Bliss that's already moving.

I'm going to step OOC to explain the effects, because I think it will be clearer. Everybody within 300 feet of this critter (right now that's Murphy, Succotash, Bliss, and Mookie) must make a DC 36 Will save every round or be subject to a Fascination effect, compelling them to move toward it. Creatures subject to the Fascination effect must make a second Will save, DC 29, or be subjected to another effect that so far only Valerie has experienced so nobody is sure what it is yet. Valerie doesn't need to make any more saves for the time being.

Here's the kind of weird part: anybody who has seen the creature knows it is a threat. That means that the Fascinate effect no longer compels them to come closer--however, it still subjects them to the other effect, so people still need to make those Fascinate saves. Right now, Bliss is the only person subject to the Fascinate effect who hasn't seen the creature. Valerie, who has succumbed to the second effect, will still continue to move toward the creature unless she is somehow stopped.

This effect is mind-affecting, not evil, not poison, and not caused by undead.

Please let me know if you have questions.

Succotash (Jeremy) AC 32/17/30 CMD 21 HP 115/115 Valerie AC 38/16/33 CMD 28 HP 109/109 Spells  d20+24=44 ; 16d6=43 ;
Tuesday October 20th, 2020 4:39:36 PM
Succotash makes his save (Rolled 44) though he is currently at the mercy of Valerie at the moment, as he is sitting in her saddle. He decides to drop a firestorm on the plant creature that is obviously the cause of the problem. The spell does 43 fire damage. (DC 27 reflex for half) If the plant creature fails it's save, it catches fire, and takes an additional 4d6 fire damage per round, until the flames are extinguished. A full round action and a DC 20 reflex save are required to extinguish the flames.

Pressi (Melvin) - AC 26 (31), HP 132, CMD 25; Harper AC 30 (35), HP 94, CMD 29 (34) 
Tuesday October 20th, 2020 9:53:35 PM
(OOC: I'm actually kind of thrilled that I guessed half right that it was tied to vision, even if I got it backwards.)

(I'll go ahead and assume that Murphy zapped me what's going on, including a picture.)

Pressi pauses as she understands the severity of the situation... and how personally unprepared she is to even help anyone like that. To dispel, she would have to get close. To curse, she would have to get into the area. To avoid the fascination... it would take a lot of luck.

For now, Pressi makes the only move that comes to mind - she casts an insect plague (5 swarms of wasps) upon where Murphy directs her from the comfort of well outside the zone.

---------------

Pressi
Ritual of Warding
Ritual of Spiritual Healing
Heroes Feast (from Bliss)
Hide from Undead

Harper
Ritual of Warding
Heroes Feast (from Bliss)
Hide from Undead

Spells Used

L1: 1
L6: 1
remote viewing: 1


The Kezz'm (BrianW) - AC 39/20/34; HP 219/219; Rumpus AC 32/15/27 HP 95/95 
Tuesday October 20th, 2020 10:22:36 PM
In case it matters, anyone within 10 feet of Kezzem gets a +4 morale bonus vs. charm effects. Kezzem himself is immune to charm effects. I don't know if that will apply or not. (If I wouldn't have dipped rogue, he would apply this bonus on compulsion effects too; blame evasion for being too awesome).

Kezzem urges Rumpus forward after Bliss. If he gets to him AND it is clear Bliss is enchanted, Kezzem will cast Protection from Evil on bliss. Assuming the effect from an evil creature, Bliss will get another save (with
a +2 bonus if he doesn't have a cloak of resistance).

The Kezz'm (BrianW) - AC 39/20/34; HP 219/219; Rumpus AC 32/15/27 HP 95/95 
Tuesday October 20th, 2020 10:24:06 PM
If Bliss is not effected and at least a third PC is within 40 feet, Kezzem will cast prayer instead, giving everyone within 40 feet a +1 luck bonus to saves (among other things).

Murphy Leafwin Pipewood(KimMc) Huge Air Elemental Druid - AC 46/T-25/Fl-38 CMD 37 HP 174  d20+21=36 ; d20+18=33 ; d20+33=47 ;
Wednesday October 21st, 2020 2:04:14 AM

Murphy has already taken up Mookie (as indicated last round). This time he recommends to Succotash. "Teleport us, Succotash. That thing is a zygomind, and our best bet is to get us back where we landed on this plane, and get the others back, too! We can take it, but rushing in is not the way."

"EVERYONE - BLISS - HOBIE - KEZZEM - PRESSI - BACK!!! IT'S A ZYGOMIND, AND CAN EASILY DOMINATE AND KILL MANY OF US IF WE JUST RUSH IN!! BACK, I SAY!!"

He redirects Valerie, pushing her around to head back the other way. Murphy's speed is nearly twice that of Valerie, and he is much, much larger. And strong and nimble. He's not trying to hurt her or penetrate her thick skin, merely staying in contact with her and flying her back - Touch AC 15 - rolled a... should have been 34, not 33. Move 250 (not 240 - forgot to include fleet feat), less Valerie's speed - 120 - perhaps net 130 back toward starting point.

Might we know distances traveled under the circumstances? Were we a few rounds out? Half a mile? A league? (j/k) From planar landing point to the zygomind... about how many yards? And how far away when the effects kicked in?

He had been sending as much of a mental picture of the place as he could to Pressi, and the plant creature is, what, colossal in size? She should have a fair feel for where to place the swarms.
============
Knowledge, nature: 36 - he knows a fair amount about the plant creature
Touch vs Valerie: 33/15
Will save w/ hero point: 47 (Murphy figures if he succumbs, their party will suffer heavily)


Bliss HP165/165 AC32 | Mookie HP76/76 AC41 | Cayzle  d20+11=25 ; d20+11=30 ; d20+12=20 ; d20+12=20 ;
Wednesday October 21st, 2020 10:30:53 AM

Mookie saves: 25, 30
Bliss saves: 20, 20

Not sure what the effects of failing these saves is, but, if possible, Bliss and Mookie backpedal and retreat away from there.

Hobie (Nick T) HP 189/181 AC 33 Touch 19 Flat 27 CMD 37 Hero Points 8 Prepared Spells  d20+50=59 ; 2d6+13=20 ;
Wednesday October 21st, 2020 11:15:06 AM
Hearing Murphy's warning, Hobie will stay in his place.

I'm not sure of the distances here, of how far everyone has traveled, but if Succotash and Valerie are within a few hundred feet of Hobie, and if he can see that Valerie is compelled and pulling herself and Succotash toward the dangerous creature, he will fire an arrow at her in an attempt to disrupt the compulsion effect. He will first use his wand of True Strike, and then fire an arrow with all of his optional damage additions removed, but even so, his arrows kinda hurt.

Attack = 60 (the maximum in the drop down is 50, but my bonus is 51)

Damage = 20 Nonlethal

"IM SORRY VALERIE!!!!! SUCKER WILL HEAL YOU!!!!!"



Hobie (Nick T) HP 189/181 AC 33 Touch 19 Flat 27 CMD 37 Hero Points 8 Prepared Spells 
Wednesday October 21st, 2020 11:19:51 AM
forgot to mention that its -2 to hit for each 220 feet that Valerie is from Hobie, but it should still be enough to hit her 38 AC if she is within Hobie's maximum range of 2200 feet

Mind Games


DM Kathy 
Wednesday October 21st, 2020 2:13:43 PM
[So, I'm gonna say we've officially moved into the "battling the zygomind" portion of the adventure. Everybody take 17,500 XP for the previous scene.]

Succotash is withstanding the fascination for now, but of course he's on Valerie so there are limits to what he can do. He casts a spell, but the zygomind has spell resistance. Please roll an SR check.

Pressi casts Insect Plague, creating 5 swarms of wasps. She places them as best she can. Being creatures, they might be subject to the zygomind's mental effects. Or, being insects, they might be dumb enough to be immune; Pressi isn't sure.

Kezzem takes off after Bliss. Unfortunately, this puts both him and Rumpus in the area of the zygomind's mental effect, so both of you need to make a DC 36 Will save or be Fascinated and move toward the creature. If you fail that save, you also need to make a DC 29 Will save. [As far as I can tell, this is not a charm effect. Actually, the creature's listing doesn't even say specifically it's mind-affecting, but I'm saying it is, because come on, what else could it be? It doesn't seem to be charm, though.]

Kezzem casts Protection from Evil on Bliss, but it has no effect. This thing doesn't seem to be evil. Just hungry.

Murphy calls for everyone to pull back, but that ship may have sailed. You are able to catch hold of Valerie and keep her from moving closer. She struggles, trying to keep moving, but she does not attack you or anything. You estimate that you walked about a quarter-mile from the place you arrived to get to the complex. You know the zygomind's effect extends for 300 feet around it; you guesstimate that the complex's entrance is 400-500 feet away from it. You and Succotash, on your aerial recon, flew over the eastern half of the complex, and were circling around to the southwest when you flew into the area of influence. The main group is south of you, near the entrance, with Bliss and Kezzem heading northwest toward the creature.

Hobie is an incredible archer, and makes an incredible shot, hundreds of feet, to wound Valerie. Unfortunately, it doesn't seem to snap her out of whatever fugue she's in.

Bliss and Mookie Highlight to display spoiler: {are in Blackbird Forest, in your Aunt Priscilla's house. Aunt Priscilla is there, making tea and some of your favorite food. Your mom Vauhwyt is there, too, and she has just said how proud she is of you. You do recall that you had gone to a dark fae plane to rescue some adventurers, and you remember that it all turned out fine and everybody's okay. You're a bit fuzzy on the details, but you're quite sure everything is okay. And besides, you're here in a familiar place with the people you love. This is no time to think about past adventures. [OOC: I'm doing my best to create a kind of idealized scenario for Bliss. I may have messed it up. The zygomind would not mess it up. :) You detect nothing weird or out of place that might be an indication that this isn't real. It is very real to you.] } Meanwhile, Bliss continues advancing toward where the zygomind waits.

Murphy Leafwin Pipewood(KimMc) Huge Air Elemental Druid - AC 46/T-25/Fl-38 CMD 37 HP 174 
Wednesday October 21st, 2020 3:58:46 PM
"Succotash, you can summon and, uh, de-summon Valerie, right? De-summon her, please, and I've got you," Murphy recommends.

[More later - have to run]

The Kezz'm (BrianW) - AC 39/20/34; HP 219/219; Rumpus AC 32/15/27 HP 95/95  d20+17=36 ; d20+15=32 ;
Wednesday October 21st, 2020 4:28:02 PM
Kezzem SV Will: 36. Made.

Rumpis Sv Will: 32. Fail.

Rumpus Sv Will 2:

The Kezz'm (BrianW) - AC 39/20/34; HP 219/219; Rumpus AC 32/15/27 HP 95/95  d6=4 ; d20+15=29 ;
Wednesday October 21st, 2020 4:29:59 PM
Rumpus Will Sv 2: 29 Made

Will post later. Rumpus is facinated and moving towards the creature, correct? The second save was for a different effect?

Murphy Leafwin Pipewood(KimMc) Huge Air Elemental Druid - AC 46/T-25/Fl-38 CMD 37 HP 174 
Wednesday October 21st, 2020 4:33:25 PM

"Kezzem - pocket Rumpus! Our animals cannot resist!" Murphy says.

Succotash (Jeremy) AC 32/17/30 CMD 21 HP 115/115 Valerie AC 38/16/33 CMD 28 HP 109/109 Spells  d20+16=27 ; 15d6=57 ; d20+20=25 ; d20+20=26 ;
Wednesday October 21st, 2020 9:16:43 PM
SR roll for Fire Storm 31 (Forgot to add +4 for spell penetration, and greater spell penetration)

"Nope Murph", Succotash says, "That's a paladin thing, Valerie is an average animal companion, like a druid or ranger often has. I'm not worried, I can cast fly on myself if needed, and I can teleport Valerie out of here, but I don't want to waste the spells, since I can't recover them. lets concentrate on killing this thing before it kills us. Besides Valerie, It looks like it has Rumpas, Mookie and Bliss as well. we need to end this thing before it hurts our friends for real!" He then casts Flame Strike SR 25 (Please ignore the second roll, accidentally hit it twice) for 57 damage. half fire, half divine (DC 24 reflex for half)

Active spells and daily uses:
Succotash:
hero's feast (13 temp hp)
speak with animals 19/19
dimensional hop 160ft/160ft
channel energy 9/9
agile feet 12/12

Valerie 6 non lethal
hero's feast
air walk 955/960
longstrider

The Kezz'm (BrianW) - AC 39/20/34; HP 219/219; Rumpus AC 32/15/27 HP 95/95 
Thursday October 22nd, 2020 2:44:21 AM
Kezzem will unsummon Rumpus.

"Sorry, Rumpo, but if you are going to get high, better it be in the...safe space you go."

Murphy Leafwin Pipewood(KimMc) Huge Air Elemental Druid - AC 46/T-25/Fl-38 CMD 37 HP 174  d20+25=33 ; d20+25=26 ; d20+29=46 ; 15d6=66 ;
Thursday October 22nd, 2020 10:42:56 AM

Murphy thinks, "If only Bliss had not decided to rush in, followed by others, we'd likely be fine." Then he feels himself on the edge of succumbing to the soporific effects of the zygomind, but heroically resists (hero point to reroll DC 29 save). Rather than the group being able more intelligently figure out how to deal with the plant creature, looks like they'll have to deal with the cards as now dealt.

He casts blight (DC 30 Fort save for 1/2 damage) on the zygomind for 66 hp damage, causing it to wither somewhat.

"ATTACK FROM AFAR IF POSSIBLE. BE HEROIC IN YOUR RESISTANCE TO THE MENTAL EFFECTS!" shouts Murphy.

Hobie (Nick T) HP 189/181 AC 33 Touch 19 Flat 27 CMD 37 Hero Points 8 Prepared Spells 
Thursday October 22nd, 2020 11:45:12 AM
Hobie casts Fly on himself, and flies as high as he can, trying to get a vantage on the Zygomind while staying far away.

Pressi (Melvin) - AC 26 (31), HP 132, CMD 25; Harper AC 30 (35), HP 94, CMD 29 (34) 
Thursday October 22nd, 2020 2:22:55 PM

"Bliss, Bliss, get back here. Darn it, I knew you'd be the death of me. Actually wrote it down and had it underlined."

Pressi felt conflicted. She didn't have a ton of attacks with THIS range (medium range is 250) and anything else she summoned would take a while to get to the plant itself. That meant staying out here and letting some of her friends tackle it without her, moving in and risking the same effect for a single shot, or trying to get Bliss back when normal methods were ineffective and the rest of the group needs those debuffs.

And through it all, she felt dread. This might be the first creature to actually frighten Pressi that wasn't a mother.

(Strangely, she'd be less scared if she came across some zombies, or if the thing was extraplanar. Zombies give her options.)

She does remind Murphy, via telepathy (and the rest via message), that they do have another option. "We can cut Bliss loose, retreat, and come back to save him later. That would give us a few more options like control weather and other minute long casting, plus whatever weapons they might find searching the area. Granted, it's not the heroic option but we need some level of practicality here. I repeat, retreat may be our best option."

Murphy Leafwin Pipewood(KimMc) Huge Air Elemental Druid - AC 46/T-25/Fl-38 CMD 37 HP 174 
Thursday October 22nd, 2020 2:46:10 PM
Out loud to those who can hear and at the same time mentally to Pressi, Murphy says, "If you all will get, or stay out of range, I can fetch Bliss. I can cast an anti-plant spell. If we can knock out, or sleep Valerie, and get her back, then I can fly in to rescue our sleepy friend. If I see anyone lying on the ground who looks like Diari's friends, maybe I can grab them, too. We retreat, and plan."

DM Kathy  d20+16=34 ;
Thursday October 22nd, 2020 3:16:11 PM
Kezzem resists the zygomind's call, but Rumpus isn't so fortunate. To keep his mount safe, Kezzem sends him back to the celestial realm. [Kezzem needs to make another save this round.]

Succotash's Fire Storm hit last round, although the zygomind made its save and only took half damage. Encouraged, he tries again with a Flame Strike, but this time he is unable to overcome the creature's resistance. [Also, did you make your Will save last round? I don't see one, and you're still in the area.]

Murphy gives some thought to strategy, then tries to cast Blight. Please make an SR check.

Hobie casts Fly on himself and gains some elevation, looking for a vantage point. You can get one. The zygomind is shielded from the front of the complex by a couple of walls, but with elevation you can see and target it. To stay out of its effects, you need to be more than 300 feet away, which means you're going to be taking some range increment penalties, but you're pretty confident you can hit the thing. Just remember to do the math.

Pressi feels herself out of her element. She prepared for fae and undead, not giant mushrooms that hypnotize people. You consider summoning spells, but you're pretty sure your wasps have succumbed to the zygomind's fascination effect, so summoning additional creatures might not do much good. You could take a page from Hobie's book and try to go aloft, but without longer-range spells, you might not be able to do anything without getting into the area of effect.

Meanwhile, Bliss continues moving toward the creature. Valerie and Mookie are trying to, but are being held back by Murphy and Succotash respectively. Murphy and Succotash are still in the area of effect, and still need to make Will saves.

Succotash (Jeremy) AC 32/17/30 CMD 21 HP 115/115 Valerie AC 38/16/33 CMD 28 HP 109/109 Spells  d20+23=24 ; d20+23=24 ;
Thursday October 22nd, 2020 5:59:30 PM
Succotash failed his save for yesterday's save, (rolled 24) and then turned around and did the same thing for today's save, so Succotash has succumbed to the plants mind-effects. So I guess He didn't cast flame strike last round.

The Kezz'm (BrianW) - AC 39/20/34; HP 219/219; Rumpus AC 32/15/27 HP 95/95  d20+15=19 ;
Thursday October 22nd, 2020 11:05:22 PM
Sv Will: 19. Nope!

Kezzem drools.

Murphy Leafwin Pipewood(KimMc) Huge Air Elemental Druid - AC 46/T-25/Fl-38 CMD 37 HP 174  d20+16=27 ; d20+25=30 ; d20+25=28 ; d20+29=32 ;
Thursday October 22nd, 2020 11:25:26 PM

SR on Blight: 27

Murphy has been driving Valerie (and upon him Succotash) and Mookie back away from the area of effect for three rounds now - that's 130 feet per round, 260 feet by the end of last round, and, if needed, 390 feet by the end of this round. As they did not get real close to the plant critter, they very likely got outside the 300 foot radius at least by last round. Just in case my figuring is faulty though:

Murphy fails the fascinate saving throw; then by 1 point against the DC 29 roll - but, knowing what he knows of the zygomind, Murphy forces himself to draw upon dwindling reserves (1 hero point), and he ekes out a save (30). He drives Valery and Succotash and Mookie all the way out of the zone, and lets Pressi know he is in dire need of help, and to stay far away from the critter... Mookie has the Instant Fortress... can we make a short-term prison of it to contain those who strain toward the creature? Or does he have to get even farther distant from it?

Once he senses he is outside the area, Murphy works on bringing himself and the three other scouts out and around (definitely not through) the sphere of influence, back toward where the party started out. He needs to get these to a place of safety before going on a Bliss rescue.

Bliss HP165/165 AC32 | Mookie HP76/76 AC41 | Cayzle 
Thursday October 22nd, 2020 11:56:17 PM

Mookie says, "Ya gotta let me go! The Kid needs me! Seriously, I'm sorry for all the times I said that stuff! LEGGO!"

Bliss: "Meow!"

The Kezz'm (BrianW) - AC 39/20/34; HP 219/219; Rumpus AC 32/15/27 HP 95/95  d20+15=32 ; d20+15=24 ; d20+15=17 ;
Friday October 23rd, 2020 1:28:49 PM
Kezzem is going to use a hero point to reroll his Will Sv (just remembered I can do that!)

SV Will (DC 36): 1d20 + 15 = 32. Still not good enough (why is the DC 36!?)

----

Second SV Will (DC 29): 1d20 + 15 = 24. Nope. Hero point!

SV Will (DC 29): 1d20 + 15 = 17. And worse.

The Kezz'm (BrianW) - AC 39/20/34; HP 219/219; Rumpus AC 32/15/27 HP 95/95 
Friday October 23rd, 2020 1:29:49 PM
Actually, those saves should be +17, not +15 (I was rolling Rumpus's save by mistake). Not going to make a difference though.

Pressi (Melvin) - AC 26 (31), HP 132, CMD 25; Harper AC 30 (35), HP 94, CMD 29 (34) 
Friday October 23rd, 2020 1:42:14 PM
I’ve got the kid all day so my brain is mush.

Pressi rolls a hero point for inspiration on how to kill the creature or save her friends.

DM Kathy 
Friday October 23rd, 2020 3:01:14 PM
Succotash Highlight to display spoiler: {finds himself back in his father's silversmith shop, watching him work. It's a pleasant scene, reminding you of your youth, but without the frustration of knowing the silversmithing life isn't for you. Vaguely, you remember that you had been in a pocket realm looking for some lost adventurers, but you remember that everything got resolved just fine. You're a little fuzzy on the details, but they don't really matter now, do they? Your father has just finished saying how proud he is of you, even though your career took you down a different path. Your mother arrives with mugs of strong tea, urging your father to take a break and saying how nice it is to have you home again. [OOC: I'm doing my best to spin a pleasant fantasy for Succotash. The zygomind is much better at this than I am. :) Your character is experiencing happiness and contentment, and sees no signs that anything is not as it should be--whatever that looks like. This is just a guess.]} Succotash and Valerie continue to try to move toward the zygomind.

Kezzem Highlight to display spoiler: {finds himself playing the best card game he has ever played in his entire life. His opponents are smart, crafty, and not above occasional cheating (which makes things interesting!). You are challenged, but you are winning more than you are losing. The ale is good, the conversation is lively, the surroundings are comfortable. It is your favorite inn. Vaguely, you remember that you recently traveled to a pocket realm to rescue some adventurers, but you also remember that everything came out just fine. The details are fuzzy, but you're sure everything is all right and you can just enjoy your card game and your company. [OOC: I'm doing my best to spin a pleasant fantasy for Kezzem. The zygomind is much better at this than I am. :) Your character is experiencing happiness and contentment, and sees no signs that anything is not as it should be--whatever that looks like. This is just a guess.]}. Kezzem continues moving northwest.

Bliss also continues moving northwest.

Making a heroic effort, Murphy withstands the zygomind's lure and pushes himself, Succotash, Valerie, and Mookie out of the creature's influence.

Pressi gives the matter some thought. You know that Bliss and Kezzem are still enthralled by the creature, and you aren't sure how to snap them out of it. However, their danger is not immediate. You get a sudden flash of insight that you know to be true: this thing doesn't kill right away. It lures its victims in, then slowly drains them of their essence. You guys have time. Rushing in, one after another, to save the most recently ensnared is not going to help anyone. You need to get the remaining team back together, regroup, and come up with a plan. Hobie probably has the right idea--get an angle on this thing and attack it from a distance. Hobie can do it with arrows; the casters might be able to do it with spells. It's inconvenient that the creature has spells resistance, but it's not insurmountable. Area-effect spells will be good for a limited time, until Bliss and Kezzem get close enough to the creature to be collateral damage. After that, you'll want single-target spells. And they'll need to be long-range spells.

Succotash (Jeremy) AC 32/17/30 CMD 21 HP 115/115 Valerie AC 38/16/33 CMD 28 HP 109/109 Spells 
Friday October 23rd, 2020 6:43:51 PM
OOC... Nailed it for Succotash's fantasy! Hearing his father say he's proud of him would be music to Succotash'e ears.

As Murphy pushes Valerie and himself out of the effect range, Succotash remembers where he is, as he snaps out of the happy place. A single tear rolls down his cheek as he realizes, his father may never except his life choice, but he steels his resolve, knowing he is doing what he was made for. He is also more then a bit angry at the zygomind for messing with his mind. Frustrated, all his spells are medium and short range spells, and he has no other long range options. so he looks around hoping Hobie can drop the thing quick.

Murphy Leafwin Pipewood(KimMc) Huge Air Elemental Druid - AC 46/T-25/Fl-38 CMD 37 HP 174  d20+27=44 ; d20+38=49 ; d20+27=47 ; d20+38=47 ;
Saturday October 24th, 2020 7:31:36 PM

The beleaguered druid is feeling good about breaking himself and friends from the aura of influence of the zygomind. Whew!

"We circle around that way," he indicates. "Mookie, we will rescue Bliss. If you go back within a few hundred feet of that cagey plant, you, too, will be trapped, unable to rescue your protegé, but rather enslaved to the mind control of the zygomind. Do you understand? Do you agree to come around back to where we started our scouting, so we together can figure this out?" Murphy tries to sense Mookie's motives (44). Has he snapped out of the plant's pull? If so, he feels additional relief.

He also observes whether Valerie is still straining in the direction of the plant. If so, good.

"Guys, I'm the fastest one here. Let me get us all back to the group. Keep your eyes out to see if you can see where Kezzem* and Bliss are down below."

He proceeds to shepherd the group at a speed of 250 feet per round back to where they started. He does glance down to see if he can see Bliss and/or Kezzem somewhere below. He also will see if he can pinpoint the locations of other party members.

*-I'm assuming that Pressi might have let Murphy know that the paladin, too, looks to be under the influence.

============
Sense motive on Mookie: 44
Sense motive on Valerie: 47
Perception to locate Bliss / Kezzem moving on the ground below: 49
Perception to figure out where other party members are (Hobie, Pressi, animals): 47

Bliss HP165/165 AC32 | Mookie HP76/76 AC41 | Cayzle 
Sunday October 25th, 2020 3:17:25 AM

[OOC: Is Mookie now unaffected, or just restrained?]

Mookie looks around, confused.

Pressi (Melvin) - AC 26 (31), HP 132, CMD 25; Harper AC 30 (35), HP 94, CMD 29 (34) 
Sunday October 25th, 2020 10:54:43 PM
“Wait, our friends Bliss and Kezzem are not yet in danger. But we can be in danger if we get back to them when they are in the zone. Murphy, I think the group that can do something is here, for now.

“So now we have a choice. Continued attacks from afar with whatever long range spells are left, looking around for better weapons, or...

“There is one alternative as far as I can see. I can walk in, hope I remain stable, and fire off a spell like flesh to stone. It would be nice if I could turn into something immune but we take what we can get. And if I can’t... we’ll, that’s what the rope around my waist is for, right?”

Before anything happens, she does grill Succotash and Moonlite about what happened when the effect took over. Maybe she could find her own way to enter their friends minds.

Murphy Leafwin Pipewood(KimMc) Huge Air Elemental Druid - AC 46/T-25/Fl-38 CMD 37 HP 174 
Monday October 26th, 2020 12:49:34 AM

"I fly up high above where Bliss and Kezzem are moving towards," Murphy explains a possible tactic. "I have a tree feather token tied to each of two rocks. The rocks fall, and an oak tree grows up instantaneously where each rock falls. If they are close together, perhaps one tree would suffice. I have an anti-plant spell, ten foot radius. I have an oak planted out here. I transport via plants to the tree adjacent to our two friends. I pick them both up, and transport back to here."

Murphy comments to Pressi, "Yes, you have some experience with entering into others' minds, and vice versa. I wonder if there is anything you might do to help me fortify my mind against the cage plant's mental control."

"If there is any one person who could take the plant out almost by himself, it would be Hobie, from on high, or from afar. He is among the greatest archers in the Wold, as far as I can tell... If he is far enough away, or high enough in the air, would the zygomind be able to send out anything against him? It would be good for him to have protection from evil, in case some undead able to fly might reach him. If he and Succotash pair up, they could be formidable partners. They could go up on the flying carpet."

"Friends - other thoughts, strategies?" the druid asks.

Succotash (Jeremy) AC 32/17/30 CMD 21 HP 115/115 Valerie AC 38/16/33 CMD 28 HP 109/109 Spells 
Monday October 26th, 2020 6:21:29 AM
"All my spells are either, short range, medium range, or touch. For me to use any of them, I have to risk that things mind crap, so I won't be of much use there. I of course would be happy to stand by Hobie's side, or fly by his side what ever the case might be, to offer back-up, should something decide to join us in the air. Valerie still has air walk on her, and that should last quite a while longer. I can also cast fly on myself if needed, and I believe our archer friend has already gotten himself air born,and may be in position to start the process of turning that plant fiend into a pincushion." Succotash then heads over to offer back-up/protection to Hobie, making sure to stay well out of the Zygomind's mind-effect range,

Pressi (Melvin) - AC 26 (31), HP 132, CMD 25; Harper AC 30 (35), HP 94, CMD 29 (34) 
Monday October 26th, 2020 10:23:48 AM
“Aside from my gaze attack? Not much. I don’t really have a good idea except to kick myself for taking the wrong feat. Bouncing over reach, what was I thinking.”

DM Kathy 
Monday October 26th, 2020 1:44:36 PM
Murphy pushes Succotash, Valerie, and Mookie out of the area. It takes a few seconds, but they come back to themselves, no longer interested in moving closer to the zygomind.

You begin discussing strategies, but you find your options are frustratingly limited. You need to be able to hit from long range, but most of you can't do that. Getting closer means entering the zygomind's range and risking becoming fascinated or enthralled or whatever you want to call it. And since the thing isn't evil, your protection options are limited.

Summoning creatures probably isn't going to work either, unless somebody can summon something that's immune to mind-affecting effects.

It may be all up to Hobie, who has been strangely silent.

Meanwhile, Bliss and Kezzem continue moving toward the zygomind.

The Kezz'm (BrianW) - AC 39/20/34; HP 219/219; Rumpus AC 32/15/27 HP 95/95 
Monday October 26th, 2020 3:42:02 PM
"Hey Bliss, do you have any threes?" asks Kezzem the enchanted Kezzem.

OOC: I assume we don't get a save every round?

Bliss HP165/165 AC32 | Mookie HP76/76 AC41 | Cayzle 
Monday October 26th, 2020 4:48:34 PM

"Aunt Priss, why do you want three? I only have two hands," answers Bliss.

=====

Mookie ponders. "Maybe molds and funguses don't much like bright light?" He uses his new Hand of Glory to cast Daylight on the next arrow to be shot at the enemy fungi.

"This is totally karma for us making too many mushroom jokes," he adds.

Pressi (Melvin) - AC 26 (31), HP 132, CMD 25; Harper AC 30 (35), HP 94, CMD 29 (34) 
Monday October 26th, 2020 5:18:46 PM
More post to come later. But Pressi reminds Murphy that she can cast constructs for their lesser immortal summons, and they have to be immune to this.

“It moves slow, but If you can drop it in front of Bliss and Kezzem, I can tell it to secure them for a fly out.”

Murphy Leafwin Pipewood(KimMc) Huge Air Elemental Druid - AC 46/T-25/Fl-38 CMD 37 HP 174 
Monday October 26th, 2020 9:14:54 PM

"That could be mighty convenient, Press," Murphy responds to her idea to summon lesser immortals. "You suppose this pocket plane has someone like that capable of doing that? And, what does it cost? But, if willing and able and reasonably confident, then summon away!"

[more in a bit, am still at work.]

Pressi (Melvin) - AC 26 (31), HP 132, CMD 25; Harper AC 30 (35), HP 94, CMD 29 (34) 
Monday October 26th, 2020 10:25:52 PM
sorry for the above posts, please delete copies. It was caused by a refresh.

Pressi (Melvin) - AC 26 (31), HP 132, CMD 25; Harper AC 30 (35), HP 94, CMD 29 (34) 
Monday October 26th, 2020 10:40:25 PM
Pressi casts her immortal summons next to her. "Gerry, come on down."

By her side begins to grow a modified graven guardian. It stares before her, its large dog head cocked, the left ear missing, a few beeps in response.

"No, no engagement, I need you for extraction." She signals for someone to prep Gerry or hand it a rope (he can move speed 40, hope its enough). "Grapple the halflings, drag them out by any means necessary but do not otherwise harm. Once they are secure, Murphy or I will extract you and any grappled out of the area. Do not engage any other hostiles except for self defense. Await further instructions once the units are secure."

Murphy Leafwin Pipewood(KimMc) Huge Air Elemental Druid - AC 46/T-25/Fl-38 CMD 37 HP 174 
Monday October 26th, 2020 11:03:10 PM

"Here are two nets, with four ropes on each - one for each corner. You suppose Gerry can use these for Kezzem and Bliss?" he asks Pressi. Murphy had been planning out different elaborate means, and will prep for such in case Gerry runs into problems, but he likes what his love has come up with. "Hi Gerry. Thanks for your help against the giants."

Extra preps: Two more 4-rope nets. Two human-fist-sized rocks wrapped in cloth, twine, and with a tree feather token, feather tip pointing a couple inches out, the rest twine-wrapped (not excessively, but enough to keep it in place), with an extension of twine from wrapped rock with loop for being held/carried by an appendage.

"When I need it, can someone cast haste upon me?" he asks. "If so, how long will it last?"

He asks Hobie and Succotash if they want to use the flying carpet. "How soon can you start loosing arrows from maybe 500 feet in the air?"

"Mookie - do you have that Instant Fortress cube?"

Murphy Leafwin Pipewood(KimMc) Halfling Druid - AC 46/T-25/Fl-38 CMD 37 HP 174 
Monday October 26th, 2020 11:04:48 PM

Oh, and before he does all that with feathers and netting and such, Murphy comes out of wildshape, his form changing from airy light yet huge air elemental to compact, solid halfling.

Hobie (Nick T) HP 189/181 AC 33 Touch 19 Flat 27 CMD 37 Hero Points 8 Prepared Spells  d20+25=35 ; d20+25=32 ; d20+25=41 ; d20+20=38 ; d20+15=34 ; d20+15=26 ; 2d6+23=33 ; 2d6+23=33 ; d6=4 ; d6=5 ; 2d6+23=29 ; d6=5 ; 2d6+23=31 ; d6=5 ; 2d6+23=28 ; d6=5 ; 2d6+23=29 ; d6=3 ; 6d6=25 ; 4d6=19 ; d6=2 ;
Tuesday October 27th, 2020 4:59:23 AM
ugh, I just typed out all of my arrows and then somehow refreshed the page and have to type it all again.....

Hobie clicks his boots and unleashes his barrage of arrows. The Zygomind is in his second range increment, so he takes a -2, which I didnt include when clicking but will include in the numbers below

Manyshot = 33
33 piercing + 4 electric = 37
33 piercing + 5 electric = 38

Rapid shot = 30
29+5 =34

Haste = 39
31+5=36

Iterative 1= 36
28+5=33

Iterative 2 = 32, critical threat, confirmation = 24
unconfirmed = 29+3=32
confirmed = 4d6(19) +69 piercing + 2 electric = 80

===============================================
Not to metagame but for the sake of helping your math, I looked up the Zygomind. If this is a by the book Bestiary 5 zygomind then total damage =

6 arrows all hit AC 30 or higher --total damage = 268
6 arrows x DR20 (the worst part of being an archer) = 120

Total damage after DR= 148

I'm not sure if plants can be crit, if they can't, it's 48 less damage for an even 100

Hobie (Nick T) HP 189/181 AC 33 Touch 19 Flat 27 CMD 37 Hero Points 8 Prepared Spells  d20+23=29 ; d20+23=36 ; d20+23=38 ; d20+18=21 ; d20+13=28 ; 2d6+23=30 ; d6=1 ; 2d6+23=31 ; d6=2 ; 2d6+23=34 ; d6=1 ; 2d6+23=28 ; d6=1 ; 2d6+23=33 ; d6=2 ;
Tuesday October 27th, 2020 5:06:54 AM
If the GM is gracious enough to let me make up for my missing post, I will add a second barrage of attacks here, if i'm just out of luck for missing my posts, I understand. Also, I just remembered haste adds a +1 to attack so in case it matters all the attacks in the post above should have +1 to hit

Manyshot = 30
30 piercing +1 electric = 31
31 piercing +2 electric = 33

Rapid shot = 37
34 + 1 = 35

Haste = 39
28 +1 = 29

Iterative 1 = 22- MISS

Iterative 2 = 29
33 + 2 = 35

================================================
5 arrows hit, total damage = 163
5 arrows x DR20 = 100

Total after DR = 63

Succotash (Jeremy) AC 32/17/30 CMD 21 HP 115/115 Valerie AC 38/16/33 CMD 28 HP 109/109 Spells 
Tuesday October 27th, 2020 6:00:49 AM
"Nice shooting Tex!" Succotash says as Hobie lets fly, "I've always wanted to say that, but I'm not sure who Tex is. It's kinda weird being named after this mythical and obviously nonexistent place known as Texas." He has his wand of searing light at the ready, should any undead decide to meet them in the air.

(Murphy would realize that Succotash is riding the air walking Valerie, and that Hobie is flying via the spell he cast on himself, so he probably wouldn't have asked if they wished to use the magic carpet. To the best of my knowledge, Kezzem, Rumpus, and Harper are the only ones in our party who don't have flight options.)

DM Kathy 
Tuesday October 27th, 2020 4:08:28 PM
Bliss and Kezzem continue moving toward the zygomind.

Pressi begins casting Lesser Immortal Summons. It is a full-round action to cast, so Gerry the Graven Guardian will arrive next round.

Murphy has been turning over elaborate plans in his mind, and he begins to execute one. He uses a standard action to change back into a halfling, then a move action to retrieve a bunch of items, and at that point he's done.

Hobie starts shooting. He unleashes an incredible amount of damage in two rounds [yes, I'll count both].

Succotash compliments Hobie's shooting, and stands by with a Wand of Searing Light, just in case.

The Kezz'm (BrianW) - AC 39/20/34; HP 219/219; Rumpus AC 32/15/27 HP 95/95 
Tuesday October 27th, 2020 6:54:42 PM
"Read 'em and weep," mutters Kezzem. "All mushrooms. That's a flush!"

Succotash (Jeremy) AC 32/17/30 CMD 21 HP 115/115 Valerie AC 38/16/33 CMD 28 HP 109/109 Spells 
Tuesday October 27th, 2020 7:19:14 PM
Succotash continues to offer back-up to Hobie, as well as encourage his friend.

Pressi (Melvin) - AC 26 (31), HP 132, CMD 25; Harper AC 30 (35), HP 94, CMD 29 (34)  d20+25=30 ;
Tuesday October 27th, 2020 9:00:33 PM
Pressi finishes her cast and then gives the instructions.

Once Murphy is done his preparations, Gerry the Construct enters the field and begins heading towards the halflings as fast as he can (speed 40, double move).

With a standard action left, she scans the field ahead, looking for any objects - literally any and all, rocks, trash, fallen bodies, strewn armor, arrows - between her and just before the mushroom (250 feet from her location). (Perception 30)

If she sees any, and if Gerry enters the field without being affected, she casts animate objects on them and sends them after the mushroom (doubly so if there are any brooms on the battlefield). Otherwise, she casts Guide on Hobie (+2 to his next attack roll).

Harper still looks worried.

---------------

Pressi
Ritual of Warding
Ritual of Spiritual Healing
Heroes Feast (from Bliss)
Hide from Undead

Harper
Ritual of Warding
Heroes Feast (from Bliss)
Hide from Undead

Spells Used

L1: 1
L5: 1
L6: 1
L7: 1
remote viewing: 1

Bliss HP165/165 AC32 | Mookie HP76/76 AC41 | Cayzle 
Wednesday October 28th, 2020 12:01:24 AM

Mookie hangs his head. Even his plan to use a Daylight spell was for nought.

Hobie (Nick T) HP 189/181 AC 33 Touch 19 Flat 27 CMD 37 Hero Points 8 Prepared Spells  d20+24=28 ; d20+24=35 ; d20+24=32 ; d20+19=21 ; d20+14=15 ; 2d6+23=30 ; d6=2 ; 2d6+23=26 ; d6=6 ; 2d6+23=34 ; d6=6 ; 2d6+23=27 ; d6=1 ;
Wednesday October 28th, 2020 9:08:52 AM
Hobie let's loose another volley

Manyshot = 28
Piercing 30 + Electric 2 = 32
Piercing 26 + Electric 6 = 32

Rapid shot = 35
34+6 = 40

Haste = 32
27+1 = 28

Iteratives 1 and 2 both miss.
==============================================

4 arrows hit, total damage 132
4 x DR20 = 80

After DR = 52


Murphy Leafwin Pipewood(KimMc) Halfling Druid - AC 46/T-25/Fl-38 CMD 37 HP 174 
Wednesday October 28th, 2020 1:14:55 PM

Murphy wraps one rock/cloth/feather/twine, lets the other feather fall enough feet away from him to avoid being bashed by the instant trunk, leaves the nets he got out on the ground where they dropped when he took them out a round or two ago, gently places the rock/feather on top of the nets, casts greater magic fang (I thought I had done so before the scouting outing, but it looks like I did not mention it), and that's likely more than he can do in this round. Out of the corner of his eye he notices wooden shafts raining down upon the plant cage. Hobie deserves some sort of award for what he is doing, in addition to the intrinsic.

DM Kathy 
Wednesday October 28th, 2020 2:50:45 PM
Kezzem and Bliss remain in their weird trances, moving closer to the zygomind. They are close enough now that it would be dangerous to target the zygomind with an area spell.

Succotash continues to encourage Hobie.

Hobie keeps shooting. You notice that each round, the creature heals a little bit of the damage, but you are damaging it faster than it can heal. You just have to keep after it.

Pressi sees literally dozens of small objects--mostly rocks--ahead of her. She animates several of them. You can't actually see the zygomind from where you are unless you gain some elevation, like Hobie, but you can send Gerry and the animated objects on their way.

Murphy continues to make his preparations.

Succotash (Jeremy) AC 32/17/30 CMD 21 HP 115/115 Valerie AC 38/16/33 CMD 28 HP 109/109 Spells 
Wednesday October 28th, 2020 7:58:10 PM
Seeing Pressi cast animate object, Succotash thinks to himself, What a great use for that spell, why haven't I ever considered using it?"

Pressi (Melvin) - AC 26 (31), HP 132, CMD 25; Harper AC 30 (35), HP 94, CMD 29 (34) 
Wednesday October 28th, 2020 9:33:54 PM
Gerry continues to move double time towards Kezzem and Bliss, beeping wildly. (Let me know when it gets close).

The animated rocks (15 small or half for medium) begin to rise at Pressi's command and rush towards the zygomind as fast as it can. (Not sure if it will be enough to defeat that DR.)

As Pressi casts a guide upon Hobie (to boost the attack on one of his arrows), she gives Succotash and Harper and Mookie something to do... bind her upon the waist because she wasn't kidding about risking the mind thing. "And when I do fall to this? I want the three of you to pull on my harness like you're taking out my spine. I've done all I can out here."

After (and if) Succotash and Mookie are done preparing ropes around her armor, she begins to move in 30 feet, her eyes straight ahead, the Rod of Thunder in her hand.

---------------

Pressi
Ritual of Warding
Ritual of Spiritual Healing
Heroes Feast (from Bliss)
Hide from Undead

Harper
Ritual of Warding
Heroes Feast (from Bliss)
Hide from Undead

Spells Used

L1: 1
L5: 1
L6: 1
L7: 1
remote viewing: 1

The Kezz'm (BrianW) - AC 39/20/34; HP 219/219; Rumpus AC 32/15/27 HP 95/95 
Thursday October 29th, 2020 12:10:33 AM
"Bah, threes over sevens! Where did you get that full house, Alleah?" mutters Kezzem.

OOC: Don't worry about blasting Kezzem. He has plenty of HP.

Murphy Leafwin Pipewood(KimMc) Huge Air Elementl Druid - AC 46/T-25/Fl-38 CMD 37 HP 174 
Thursday October 29th, 2020 6:12:37 AM

Murphy casts antiplant shell, wildshapes back into a huge air elemental, and takes up the nets and such as he begins his ascent into the sky.

Bliss HP165/165 AC32 | Mookie HP76/76 AC41 | Cayzle 
Thursday October 29th, 2020 6:42:56 AM
Mookie tries to help with ropes, using beak and Mage Hand.

Hobie (Nick T) HP 189/181 AC 33 Touch 19 Flat 27 CMD 37 Hero Points 8 Prepared Spells  d20+24=36 ; d20+24=44 ; d20+24=34 ; d20+24=33 ; d20+19=32 ; d20+14=18 ; 2d6+23=28 ; d6=1 ; 2d6+23=33 ; d6=1 ; 4d6=17 ; d6=5 ; 2d6+23=33 ; d6=6 ; 2d6+23=32 ; d6=2 ;
Thursday October 29th, 2020 12:22:25 PM
Hobie keeps it going

Manyshot= 36
Piercing 28 + Electric 1 = 29
Piercing 33 + Electric 1 = 34

Rapid Shot = Natural 20-- Confirmation roll = 34
4d6(17)+69= Piercing 86 +Electric 5 = 91

Haste = 33
33+6 = 39

Iterative 1 = 32
32+ 2 =34

Iterative 2 = 18 - Miss

=====================================
Total Damage 5 arrows =227
5 arrows x DR20 = 100

Damage after DR = 127

==============================
Boots of Speed 7/10

DM Kathy 
Thursday October 29th, 2020 3:23:57 PM
Pressi's animated rocks begins speeding toward the zygomind. Gerry continues to move toward Bliss and Kezzem. He will catch up at the end of next round, but he won't have enough actions left to do anything.

Meanwhile, Succotash, with help from Harper and Mookie, begins tying a rope around Pressi's waist.

Murphy casts Antiplant Shell, which is a standard action. Transforming back into an air elemental is also a standard action, so he'll need to use a Hero Point or wait until next round.

Hobie keeps shooting. Arrow after arrow finds its mark, until the weird fungus dome partially collapses and the tentacles stop moving.

After a short time, Bliss and Kezzem come back to themselves. The zygomind is no more.

[Hobie gets a Hero Point for managing to kill the thing from a distance. Pressi and Murphy get Hero Points for thinking outside the box. If you want to nominate somebody else for a Hero Point, let me know.]

Succotash (Jeremy) AC 32/17/30 CMD 21 HP 115/115 Valerie AC 38/16/33 CMD 28 HP 109/109 Spells 
Thursday October 29th, 2020 5:59:45 PM
"That was interesting, and by interesting, I mean I'm glad we have our very own Hobie with us." Succotash sighs, a sigh of relief, "I think we know why those guys wandered off now, shall we go and investigate?"

Murphy Leafwin Pipewood(KimMc) Huge Air Elementl Druid - AC 46/T-25/Fl-38 CMD 37 HP 174  d20+38=58 ; d20+38=47 ; d20+38=57 ;
Thursday October 29th, 2020 8:48:32 PM

And Murphy goes into air elemental mode. "Hurrah!" he says now that apparently Hobie has won the day. "Yes, Succotash. On my way." And he flies up and toward where Bliss and Kezzem went. As he comes to them (he goes all the way to Bliss, who may be in the lead), he asks, "Bliss, Bliss, are you all right?" He does keep a wary eye on the fungal mass, in case it begins to stir again. "Want a lift back?"

Over the next several minutes, Murphy looks for the two members of Diani's group who had wandered off and, just in case, any others from her group who may have somehow made their way here. If they lay still, or are just rousing, he gathers them up, and flies them away from the fungus. He wants them far away in case something strange occurs with the zygomind. Those whom he carries are protected by his plantshield. If other intelligent creatures are similarly rousing, he marshalls them away from the fungal hub. Once the living (or not quite dead) are rescued, he takes a closer look at the crumpled plant cage. Are there people within? Is there 'stuff' within?

All along, he gives Pressi updates.

Perception: Searching for members of Diani's party: 58 (nat 20)
Perception: Looking for others in need of rescue: 47
Perception: Looking for 'stuff': 57

Bliss HP165/165 AC32 | Mookie HP76/76 AC41 | Cayzle 
Thursday October 29th, 2020 8:49:50 PM

When Bliss understands what has been going on, he changes into halfling form and whaps on the Mad Mushroom with his staff sling.

Mookie flies up and looks for loot.

Pressi (Melvin) - AC 26 (31), HP 132, CMD 25; Harper AC 30 (35), HP 94, CMD 29 (34) 
Thursday October 29th, 2020 9:00:31 PM
When Kezzem finally wakes up, he finds a muscular dog man robot pushing him while beeping.

Pressi watches as Hobie takes down the creature. "Yeah, I could have done that too. But where's the speechifying for that?"

Also, Murphy has an antiplant shell? "I thought I had some weirdly specific spells in my guidebook. Can you also cast shark repellent spray?"

More specifically, Pressi isn't willing to go another two feet after a surprise like that. Now that she can take her time, she fires up the arcane eye (10 minutes to cast but it should reach the zygomind in less than a minute) and sends it through the area looking for survivors and bodies.

---------------

Pressi
Ritual of Warding
Ritual of Spiritual Healing
Heroes Feast (from Bliss)
Hide from Undead

Harper
Ritual of Warding
Heroes Feast (from Bliss)
Hide from Undead

Spells Used

L1: 1
L4: 1
L5: 1
L6: 1
L7: 1
remote viewing: 1

Succotash (Jeremy) AC 32/17/30 CMD 21 HP 115/115 Valerie AC 38/16/33 CMD 28 HP 109/109 Spells 
Friday October 30th, 2020 6:21:22 AM
Succotash, On Valerie's back sprints towards the Zygomind (70x4=280ft per round). Not for the first time, he wishes Murphy would stop the whole I'll go investigate by myself thing it worries him something fierce, when he does that. If he could just remember to take his friendly neighborhood travel cleric along, he will find that, unless there is some mind effecting gobbaly guck going on, he can get them out of harms way,9 out of 10 times.

Hobie (Nick T) HP 189/181 AC 33 Touch 19 Flat 27 CMD 37 Hero Points 8 Prepared Spells 
Friday October 30th, 2020 7:44:57 AM
Hobie will fly a bit closer to the dead zygomind, but will only approach it if he sees that his friends are keeping their minds.

The Kezz'm (BrianW) - AC 39/20/34; HP 219/219; Rumpus AC 32/15/27 HP 95/95 
Friday October 30th, 2020 12:49:45 PM
"Wait a minute, I have the three of mushrooms. How did...?"

Kezzem comes to his senses.

"Um, what happened, where am I, and how did Alleah get that three of mushrooms if it was in my hand?"

DM Kathy 
Friday October 30th, 2020 2:40:40 PM
Murphy changes into an air elemental and races toward the zygomind, sending Succotash scrambling to follow him.

Bliss moves the rest of the way to the zygomind in order to whap on it a few times.

Kezzem awakens from his card game just as Gerry the Graven Guardian is reaching for him.

Hobie moves cautiously closer while Pressi begins casting a spell.

But everyone has forgotten about Pressi's wasps. They had been fascinated by the zygomind, and drawn into who knows what kind of waspy fantasies as they moved every closer. Now, just like Bliss and Kezzem, they are awake again. They make life very interesting for a short time, until Pressi is able to dismiss them.

In the area of the zygomind itself, you find a couple of decrepit-looking zombies, which you readily dispatch. But something is off. You would have expected more corpses. And you would have expected fresher-looking corpses belonging to Diara's former companions. You find neither. A Knowledge: Nature check might tell you more.

You do find some treasure scattered about--a couple of staves, a rod, and a small-sized greatsword.

The Kezz'm (BrianW) - AC 39/20/34; HP 219/219; Rumpus AC 32/15/27 HP 95/95 
Friday October 30th, 2020 3:01:27 PM
"Did a mushroom just try to eat me?" asks Kezzem. "A mushroom just tried to eat me, didn't it? That almost enough to put one off mushrooms. Almost."

"Hey look, loot? Anything magical guys?"

Murphy Leafwin Pipewood(KimMc) Huge Air Elementl Druid - AC 46/T-25/Fl-38 CMD 37 HP 174  d20+21=29 ; d20+21=29 ;
Friday October 30th, 2020 10:29:46 PM

Murphy puzzles through the apparent paucity of corpses, and unclear evidence regarding Diara's party members. Perhaps they are being kept elsewhere? If so, by whom? Has someone been plucking those attracted to the zygomind, and taking them elsewhere? Or, has a great deal of time passed in this pocket plane relative to the prime material plane's temporal frame of reference. Having seen temporal anomalies in other contexts, and having spent time learning about various planes when he was plucked unceremoniously from the tail end of the battle against the northern giants onslaught, the druid mulls over this possibility.

Now, Diara had spent some time describing her companions, their appearance. Did she list some of their more salient possessions? Might this small-sized greatsword (a paradoxical weapon, indeed) have belonged to a party member, or the staves or rod? Murphy shrinks to a smaller size capable of navigating among the now dead foliage of the fungal predator. He looks for clothing, other items which may be recognizable as having belonged to their petitioner's friends.

Or is there something different in some way about this particular zygomind?

The still fairly young Mister Leafwin Pipewood draws upon his acquaintance with the natural world and with planar distinctions to help inform his thoughts.

He shares what he is pondering among his friends, and asks for their ideas.

"We may need to explore further this plane. We know that a few other members of the party went off a different direction. This story is not yet finished, I think."

Then he thinks to add, "And I want to make sure this zygomind thing is really, really dead. Deader than a doornail. Not that I use nails in a door. My father uses wooden rods and clever cuts and grooves and glues to assemble doors."
================
Knowledge (nature): 29
Knowledge (the planes): 29

Succotash (Jeremy) AC 32/17/30 CMD 21 HP 115/115 Valerie AC 38/16/33 CMD 28 HP 109/109 Spells  d20+6=12 ; d20+6=15 ;
Sunday November 1st, 2020 3:04:31 PM
Succotash scratches his head as he examines the corpses. Things don't add up as he assumed they would. He's no expert on the planes, or nature for that matter, but he pitches in to assist Murphy in his findings, giving him a +2 on both his rolls.

Aid Another Nature: 12(pass)
Aid Another Planes: 15(pass)

Pressi (Melvin) - AC 26 (31), HP 132, CMD 25; Harper AC 30 (35), HP 94, CMD 29 (34)  d20+29=43 ;
Monday November 2nd, 2020 10:31:02 AM
With most focused on the plant, Pressi reviews the loot (Detect Magic, Spellcraft 43).

She also tries to figure out how a group of summoned wasps (technically mindless) gets possessed, but she does take the time to dismiss them.

---------------

Pressi
Ritual of Warding
Ritual of Spiritual Healing
Heroes Feast (from Bliss)
Hide from Undead

Harper
Ritual of Warding
Heroes Feast (from Bliss)
Hide from Undead

Spells Used

L1: 1
L5: 1
L6: 1
L7: 1
remote viewing: 1

DM Kathy 
Monday November 2nd, 2020 2:09:49 PM
Kezzem reflects on the irony of almost being eaten by a mushroom.

Murphy, with help from Succotash, is able to recall that victims slain by zygominds rise as undead--usually skeletons or zombies. These undead move out from the zygomind, attacking any creatures they see. Their attacks can subject other creatures to the zygomind's influence, even from miles away. It is likely, then, that the bodies of other victims are....elsewhere, having been turned into undead and sent out. You aren't sure what will happen to them now that the zygomind is dead. Maybe they'll be dead, too, or maybe they'll just revert to "normal" undead; you're not sure. Either way, they are corporeal undead, they have feet, and that means they can be tracked.

Pressi spends some time studying the items you found. You identify a Staff of Fire, a Staff of Necromancy, and a Rod of Alertness. The sword is a +3 greatsword. When describing her companions, Diara didn't mention any of these items. She didn't give you a complete catalog of all their stuff, but it seems unlikely that any of this belonged to them. The sword is intriguing, but the only small member of the party was a ranger, who would be unlikely to be swinging a greatsword around.

Bliss HP165/165 AC32 | Mookie HP76/76 AC41 | Cayzle 
Monday November 2nd, 2020 2:10:02 PM
Bliss takes cat form and tries to sniff out a clue or odor of the people we are seeking.

Though he fears this is just a diversion.

The Kezz'm (BrianW) - AC 39/20/34; HP 219/219; Rumpus AC 32/15/27 HP 95/95 
Monday November 2nd, 2020 11:41:00 PM
"Greatsword isn't really my thing," says Kezzem. "I could use it, but I'm just not as good with big clumsy weapons like that. Daggers, short swords, or rapiers are more my speed. Can anyone else use it? Succo, isn't that more your thing, or did you lose that with the pig? Or Hobie maybe? Might be a good option if you even find yourself too close to use a bow?"

Succotash (Jeremy) AC 32/17/30 CMD 21 HP 115/115 Valerie AC 38/16/33 CMD 28 HP 109/109 Spells  d20+23=37 ; d20+14=18 ;
Tuesday November 3rd, 2020 5:55:04 AM
Succotash shakes his head, "My skill with the greatsword left me the same time I lost the rest of my paladin abilities, I would just be wailing away if I tried to wield such a weapon now.

Succotash looks around for the tracks of Diara's friends (Perception 37), and assuming he finds them, he will attempt to follow them (Survival 18)

Pressi (Melvin) - AC 26 (31), HP 132, CMD 25; Harper AC 30 (35), HP 94, CMD 29 (34)  d20+22=30 ;
Tuesday November 3rd, 2020 10:04:48 AM
Pressi points out that its the staves that are important. (While pretty much anyone who would use a greatsword already has one, there's no such thing as too many spells, esp of these types.)

In fact, her first move is to study the Rod of Alertness. Once a day she can detect enemies and warn friendlies (like the guys she is looking for) and half a plan is already beginning to form in Pressi's mind. Unless someone else takes an interest, she grabs all three.

Also, "These guys were clearly more prepared for the zygomind than we were. A separate party, perhaps?"

Otherwise, she uses her tracking ability to follow the zombie tracks but doesn't turn on her justicar ability quite yet (Survival 30).

DM Kathy 
Tuesday November 3rd, 2020 2:37:32 PM
Bliss scents the air. You think you catch faint traces of some of Diara's companions, but it's hard to say for sure.

Kezzem declines the great sword, and there doesn't seem to be anybody else who can wield it. Of course, it's still worth money.

Succotash is able to find some humanoid tracks. Judging from the shuffling gait, they are zombie tracks. He needs Pressi's help to follow them, but you are eventually able to tell that they head westward, away from the ruins complex.

Bliss HP165/165 AC32 | Mookie HP76/76 AC41 | Cayzle  d20+21=23 ;
Tuesday November 3rd, 2020 7:04:40 PM
Bliss helps track the zombies ... He changes into a scrawny old tomcat, wise in the ways of smelling ... Survival 23

Pressi (Melvin) - AC 26 (31), HP 132, CMD 25; Harper AC 30 (35), HP 94, CMD 29 (34) 
Tuesday November 3rd, 2020 10:03:18 PM
Not much for Pressi to do currently except continue to help track and to occasionally scout ahead.

She considers alternatives like further divinations to avoid yet another hit like before, but none come to mind as of yet.

Murphy Leafwin Pipewood(KimMc) Huge Air Elementl Druid - AC 46/T-25/Fl-38 CMD 37 HP 174 
Wednesday November 4th, 2020 1:52:08 AM

Can someone post for Murphy for a day or two? I am inundated with things.

Succotash (Jeremy) AC 32/17/30 CMD 21 HP 115/115 Valerie AC 38/16/33 CMD 28 HP 109/109 Spells  d20+23=38 ;
Wednesday November 4th, 2020 5:28:52 AM
Succotash is content to follow Pressi's lead. He's never been the greatest tracker, and he is glad that he has friends who can fill in those gaps. As he proceeds, he keeps his eyes peeled for any threats, with his wand of searing light (CL 10) at the ready (perception 38)

Hobie (Nick T) HP 189/181 AC 33 Touch 19 Flat 27 CMD 37 Hero Points 8 Prepared Spells 
Wednesday November 4th, 2020 12:27:02 PM
"I'm not much of a sword user, I'd rather fire my bow and take an attack than drop it in favor of a blade."

Hobie will follow along with Sucker, bow at the ready

Hobie (Nick T) HP 189/181 AC 33 Touch 19 Flat 27 CMD 37 Hero Points 8 Prepared Spells 
Wednesday November 4th, 2020 12:27:03 PM
"I'm not much of a sword user, I'd rather fire my bow and take an attack than drop it in favor of a blade."

Hobie will follow along with Sucker, bow at the ready

Bliss HP165/165 AC32 | Mookie HP76/76 AC41 | Cayzle 
Wednesday November 4th, 2020 1:45:02 PM
Bliss changes into a halfling just to tease his friend.

"I'm not much of a sword user either," says Bliss. "And I'm not much of a sword user either."

Mookie nods. "He's not much of a sword user. And he's really not much of a sword user."

Bliss giggles and pokes Nick. I mean Hobie.



DM Kathy 
Wednesday November 4th, 2020 2:35:18 PM
You follow the tracks. After a short time, you come upon a skeleton, lying unmoving on the ground. So, maybe killing the zygomind also killed all its undead minions. It would be nice to think so.

But that's not the tale the tracks tell. It looks as if there was a fight here, something over a week ago. The skeleton has definite damage marks on it. Somebody killed this thing. Re-killed it. Whatever.

You continue on, and come to a zombie, also lifeless on the ground. Here, too, there was a fight of some kind. The zombie shows definite slash marks. Incidentally, the zombie is wearing some very nice armor that looks like it is made of mithral.

Murphy Leafwin Pipewood(KimMc) Huge Air Elementl Druid - AC 46/T-25/Fl-38 CMD 37 HP 174 
Wednesday November 4th, 2020 5:13:15 PM
Murphy flies high, and westward. He looks for undead, or any signs of movement. He relays whatever he finds back through Pressi. If someone wants to join him, he is fine with that. Otherwise, full speed ahead, and perception 48 (taking 10).

Pressi (Melvin) - AC 26 (31), HP 132, CMD 25; Harper AC 30 (35), HP 94, CMD 29 (34) 
Wednesday November 4th, 2020 8:58:50 PM
Pressi takes some time to examine the armor. This seems like something to be focused on.

She takes some time to examine the staff of necromancy, though its not clear if the undead is what they should be worried about.

She continues to track along on foot.

The Kezz'm (BrianW) - AC 39/20/34; HP 219/219; Rumpus AC 32/15/27 HP 95/95  d20+23=43 ;
Wednesday November 4th, 2020 11:26:28 PM
Kezzem inspects the re-dead with Detect Evil to try and determine now recently they re-died.

Knowledge (religion): 1d20 + 23 = 43.



Succotash (Jeremy) AC 32/17/30 CMD 21 HP 115/115 Valerie AC 38/16/33 CMD 28 HP 109/109 Spells  d20+8=22 ;
Thursday November 5th, 2020 5:42:31 AM
Succotash examines the armor and casts detect magic on it (spellcraft 22)

DM Kathy 
Thursday November 5th, 2020 3:53:18 PM
Murphy flies recon. You don't see any movement, or anything out of place. You do see what appears to be another downed undead, some distance from where the party is currently.

With Pressi's help, Succotash is able to identify the armor as +1 Mithral Full Plate of Speed with Improved Energy Resistance for acid. Unfortunately, it is sized for its medium wearer, but of course it's still worth money.

Kezzem detects for evil and finds none. If these undead has just stopped when the zygomind was slain, you would expect to see some lingering evil here. The fact that you don't supports the conclusion that these undead were killed (or re-killed) a while ago.

With nothing more to see here, you follow Murphy's directions to the next undead. This one was also a zombie, and was also killed. But it is considerably "fresher" than the other undead you've seen so far, as if the person had died recently. The body is that of a human man, and looking at his face and his gear, you conclude that these are the remains of Vitaly Cev, the group's cleric. His gear appears to be mostly intact.

Succotash (Jeremy) AC 32/17/30 CMD 21 HP 115/115 Valerie AC 38/16/33 CMD 28 HP 109/109 Spells 
Thursday November 5th, 2020 5:35:46 PM
Succotash removes the mithral full-plate from the body and puts it in his handy haversack. When he comes to the cleric he is sad to see they weren't able to save him, though he wasn't surprised based on the zygomind's abilities. Succotash casts detect magic over the cleric's body and examines the body for valuables, as well as anything that may have sentimental value to his friends, should they find any alive, and if not, at least he knows he has a friend waiting back in the Wold, to give any trinkets to.

Turning to his friends, he says, "I wonder who or what is killing these undead, I mean it saves us the hassle, of course, but I wonder if this be friend or foe!"

The Kezz'm (BrianW) - AC 39/20/34; HP 219/219; Rumpus AC 32/15/27 HP 95/95 
Thursday November 5th, 2020 5:45:41 PM
"These undead have been dead for a while," says Kezzem. "Or is that re-dead? Dead again?"

"Probably those adventures that we are here to 'rescue' Succo," suggests Kezzem. "They probably got some licks in before they, you know, got gotten."

Pressi (Melvin) - AC 26 (31), HP 132, CMD 25; Harper AC 30 (35), HP 94, CMD 29 (34) 
Thursday November 5th, 2020 9:02:23 PM
"Well, lets find out."

It's here that Pressi activates her Justicar ability, adding 8 to her tracking ability, and alerting whoever she's tracking that she's tracking them.

Bliss HP165/165 AC32 | Mookie HP76/76 AC41 | Cayzle 
Thursday November 5th, 2020 10:39:20 PM
Bliss suggests that we should bring back the cleric's gear to his friend. The body ... well ...

Murphy Leafwin Pipewood(KimMc) Huge Air Elementl Druid - AC 46/T-25/Fl-38 CMD 37 HP 174 
Friday November 6th, 2020 12:00:09 AM

Elemental Murphy descends to join his friends adjacent the fallen hero. "Let us bring all of him back, Bliss. Mayhaps, with divine aid, he might be restored to true life. And for now, let us also continue onward to see if there are others in better shape to rescue. I'll fly ahead a bit to see if there are others."

Perception: as before (48)

Hobie (Nick T) HP 189/181 AC 33 Touch 19 Flat 27 CMD 37 Hero Points 8 Prepared Spells 
Friday November 6th, 2020 1:27:02 AM
I agree with Murphy that if we could bring back the full body of the cleric it would be ideal. Succotash can you cast Gentle Repose?


Succotash (Jeremy) AC 32/17/30 CMD 21 HP 115/115 Valerie AC 38/16/33 CMD 28 HP 109/109 Spells 
Friday November 6th, 2020 5:41:27 AM
Succotash shakes his head sadly, "No Hobie, I didn't prepare that spell. It was a logistical nightmare trying to decide what spells to prepare for this journey, especially when we learned we couldn't prepare spells here, after sleeping, and in my wildest dreams, I never though I would need to use such as spell. Does he really need his body to meet with Lord Gargul though? It seems to me that if someones body was completely consumed in a fire attack, disintegration spell, or perhaps a destruction spell, the god of life and death could still work around that."

Murphy Leafwin Pipewood(KimMc) Halfling Druid - AC 46/T-25/Fl-38 CMD 37 HP 174 
Friday November 6th, 2020 11:57:47 AM

"I have a few blankets with which to wrap the body, some canvas, too, and room in my portable hole." He changes back to halfling, gets (with precautions to avoid mixing portable hole and competing interdimensional storage) the said items. "Hobie, can you help me enfold his body?" he asks. First the blankets, then the canvas, then some rope to secure the bundling, and to have a length to lower him into the hole. "Yes, Lord Gargul has exceeding great powers," Murphy tells Succotash. "But to return his remains, nonetheless, friend, may be of benefit in the effort. We know he hates undead - and I have no doubt the man who was this cleric shared that hatred. Ironic way to go, that."

He decides just to walk with his companions for now, and to follow Pressi's justiciar tracking lead.

Hobie (Nick T) HP 189/181 AC 33 Touch 19 Flat 27 CMD 37 Hero Points 8 Prepared Spells 
Friday November 6th, 2020 12:26:07 PM
Hobie replies to Succotash with a little bit of frustration, as he expected his friend to be a bit more empathetic regarding this slain cleric. "Lord Gargul or not, his friends and family might like the closure of seeing his body, and knowing he can be laid to rest in a place of honor. I know if it was you who died I wouldn't want to see your body left in this gods forsaken place."

Hobie will help Murphy with all of the steps required to get him into the portable hole.

The Survivor


DM Kathy 
Friday November 6th, 2020 3:07:48 PM
[Everybody take 78,100 XP for the previous scene.]

Succotash uses Detect Magic to find and remove Vitaly's gear. You find: +2 full plate, a lion’s shield, a +1 mace of disruption, a Headband of Inspired Wisdom +4, a Belt of Giant Strength +4, a Cloak of Resistance +4, a Wand of Cure Serious Wounds (12 charges remaining), and a Staff of Healing.

Kezzem speculates that perhaps one or more of the surviving adventurers dispatched the undead, and Pressi decides to find out. She is able to locate tracks of a small-sized humanoid leading away from the fight scene. The tracks do not appear to be from undead.

Bliss suggests bringing Vitaly's gear back to Diara. Murphy suggests bringing the body as well, an idea which Hobie supports.

You do not presently have a Gentle Repose available, but that shouldn't be a problem since you don't intend to spend a lot of time in The Ruins anyway. You are able to wrap up Vitaly's body and put it in the portable hole.

Meanwhile, the tracks Pressi identified lead to the northwest.

Murphy Leafwin Pipewood(KimMc) Halfling Druid - AC 46/T-25/Fl-38 CMD 37 HP 174 
Saturday November 7th, 2020 8:43:53 AM

So we move to the northwest.

Bliss HP165/165 AC32 | Mookie HP76/76 AC41 | Cayzle  d20+18=25 ;
Sunday November 8th, 2020 11:47:41 AM

Mookie flies overhead, keeping watch

Bliss in young tomcat form keeps pace with Pressi and aids another with her tracking.

Survival 25 (with scent)

Succotash (Jeremy) AC 32/17/30 CMD 21 HP 115/115 Valerie AC 38/16/33 CMD 28 HP 109/109 Spells 
Monday November 9th, 2020 5:55:19 AM
Seeing the frustration in Hobie's face, and hearing the disappointment in both his and Murphy's voices Succotash shakes his head and says, "I mean no disrespect to anyone, especially those who have died, but what about the others who have succumbed to the zygomind, and who were re-slain, by, well someone, do we offer them the same treatment, and if not, why not? If so, then based on the looks of things, we may fill your portable hole to the top with corpses, Murph. I was simply trying to be practical. and once we figure out what in the name of the gods is going on, I would like to give these poor souls a proper sending off, whether by pyre or burial, but I wish to make sure things are safe before we move in that direction, and the idea of carting around a bunch of corpses seems a bit morbid to me, but do as you wish, it's your portable hole."

Pressi (Melvin) - AC 26 (31), HP 132, CMD 25; Harper AC 30 (35), HP 94, CMD 29 (34)  d10=5 ;
Monday November 9th, 2020 1:33:16 PM
Pressi casts "Gentle Repose" as per the wishes of others (It's an L2 spell for witches). As for Succotash, Pressi notes that they were asked to do a job, and that takes priority over any issue of fairness.

With that, she continues to track the halfling.



DM Kathy 
Monday November 9th, 2020 2:52:25 PM
Succotash wonders aloud why you aren't laying all the bodies to rest instead of just this one. Pressi reminds him that you are here on a specific mission, and casts Gentle Repose to keep the body preserved.

With the help of Bliss and Murphy, Pressi continues tracking northwest. You find two more former undead, slain like the others. One has a rather nice bow, which proves to be a +1 Flaming Burst short bow.

You continue tracking. A short distance later, the tracks lead into a jumble of boulders, and you can see where a rough shelter has been set up. Crouching inside it, arms wrapped around himself, is a halfling man. He is in rough shape, and appears to be muttering to himself. He doesn't seem to be aware of you yet.

Murphy Leafwin Pipewood(KimMc) Halfling Druid - AC 46/T-25/Fl-38 CMD 37 HP 174 
Monday November 9th, 2020 4:03:38 PM

"Clovis Bylee. Diara sent us to rescue you and your companions. I am Murphy, of Humble's Ford. Are you well?" Murphy asks.

Succotash (Jeremy) AC 32/17/30 CMD 21 HP 115/115 Valerie AC 38/16/33 CMD 28 HP 109/109 Spells 
Monday November 9th, 2020 5:54:53 PM
Seeing the halfling, Succotash quickly prepares to offer up some healing. He says, My name is Succotash Slenderstick, and I'm a cleric. Do you have any wounds that need tending? As my friend Murphy has said we are from Humble's Ford, and we are the adventure group known as Humble's Sword, perhaps you've heard of us, we did slay a dragon at the battle of Sargrass Plains after all. Anyway as I said before, I can offer some healing if you need it, also can you tell us what happened to you and your friends, and do you know if there are anymore survivors?

Bliss HP165/165 AC32 | Mookie HP76/76 AC41 | Cayzle 
Monday November 9th, 2020 11:48:51 PM

"Hey Mister! Hey Mister! No worries, we'll have you fixed up in no time!"

Bliss casts Remove Curse, Remove Disease, and if those do not restore him, he'll ask his friends if Break Enchantment or Heal would be worth a try?

The Kezz'm (BrianW) - AC 39/20/34; HP 219/219; Rumpus AC 32/15/27 HP 95/95 
Tuesday November 10th, 2020 1:56:56 AM
"I can hold on to that bow for now," says Kezzem. "Just in case we fight another of those evil mushrooms things. I don't think it's a good idea to get in dagger range. Unless anyone else needs a bow that is, but I figure Hobbie has a better one and everyone else casts spells, so...."

"Hey, Bliss, save some of that good stuff for us! We can try our wands first."

Kezzem will offer to use his wand of cure light wounds to assist the halfling if he needs healing.

DM Kathy 
Tuesday November 10th, 2020 2:52:30 PM
When you see the halfling, Murphy calls out to him by name. Succotash introduces himself.

The halfling looks up and sees you. For a moment, hope blossoms on his face. Then he shakes his head. "You're not real," he says. He looks down at the ground, still shaking his head. "Not real, not real." He thwacks himself on the head several times with the flat of his hand. "Wake up, Clovis! Wake up! It's not real!"

Bliss casts Remove Curse and Remove Disease. Neither seems to have any effect. Kezzem offers a curing wand, but Clovis seems only lightly wounded. He isn't cursed, or diseased; he is traumatized.

Murphy Leafwin Pipewood(KimMc) Halfling Druid - AC 46/T-25/Fl-38 CMD 37 HP 174 
Tuesday November 10th, 2020 4:44:43 PM

"I know, Clovis, The zygomind tries to make you believe that that which is, is not, and that which is not, is. The fungus lies, and manipulates, and twists, and devours, and turns people into undead. Bliss, here, was trapped by it, and so was Kezzem. But we killed it. Well, mainly our archer, Hobie here, killed it. He was able to shoot it enough times without getting close enough for it to affect his mind.

"It can no longer harm you. We are real. Look, we found the body of Vitaly Cev, who had been changed into a zombie. We want to return his remains to the Wold. Perhaps we will petition Gargul to restore life to him."

The other two dead undead whom we came across - do we recognize them as party members Diara described? If so, Murphy also will mention them. "Do not fear, Clovis, nor lose hope. We are not deceiving you. You have gone through a horrible nightmare. We are sad for the loss of your friends, companions. Will you help us gather any other members of your group, that we then may return with you all to the Wold?"

Succotash (Jeremy) AC 32/17/30 CMD 21 HP 115/115 Valerie AC 38/16/33 CMD 28 HP 109/109 Spells 
Tuesday November 10th, 2020 5:46:04 PM
Succotash knows that heal can fix mental issues, and is more then happy to cast it on Clovis, though he isn't certain that is the way to go in this case. Instead he places one hand gently on the halfling's shoulder, and grabs the hand Clovis was hitting himself with, giving it a gentle and reassuring squeeze. "As you can see we are very real, and we are here to take you home. Do you know if anymore of your friends are still alive? We very much want to rescue them as well."

Hobie (Nick T) HP 189/181 AC 33 Touch 19 Flat 27 CMD 37 Hero Points 8 Prepared Spells 
Wednesday November 11th, 2020 12:31:43 AM
Hobie will take out some whiskey and offer it to Clovis "This isnt gonna solve your problems, but it'll help"

The Kezz'm (BrianW) - AC 39/20/34; HP 219/219; Rumpus AC 32/15/27 HP 95/95 
Wednesday November 11th, 2020 1:34:39 AM
For some reason my post got marked private. Probably clicked the button by accident trying to post via phone.

Well, it is a wand of cure light wounds, so might as well give him a charge.

1d8 + 1 = 8 hp back

"Does lesser restortion help with PQRSTD or whatever it's called?" asks Kezzem.

Bliss HP165+12/165 AC32 | Mookie HP76+8/76 AC41 | Cayzle  d8+7=12 ; d8+7=8 ;
Wednesday November 11th, 2020 7:26:17 AM
"I have two of my most powerful spells per day," Bliss says. "One of always Heroes Breakfast." ...

[OOC: BTW, that happens EVERY morning, standard operating procedure, but I may have not mentioned it? Still, everybody should have the spell active plus 1d8+7 temp hp, plus a +1 morale bonus on attack rolls and Will saves and a +4 morale bonus on saving throws against poison and fear effects for 12 hours.]

[Rolling temp hp for me and the Mookster: 12 and 8]

"My other most potent spell could be a Heal for this poor fellow. It cures all mental and physical woes. And he seems to have some. Honestly, yes, it would be useful to us, but having this guy with us and ready to contribute is likely a bigger power boost than anything my one spell could do. Plus it seems like a good, right, and heroic thing to do."

If no one objects, Bliss casts Heal on the poor halfling.

Pressi (Melvin) - AC 26 (31), HP 132, CMD 25; Harper AC 30 (35), HP 94, CMD 29 (34)  d20+23=42 ;
Wednesday November 11th, 2020 11:13:17 AM
Pressi shakes her head, unsure if Bliss should burn that spell, at least for the moment.

After considering some things, she leans down. "I want you to think about something, very carefully. See, we actually are here to rescue you and we really did take down that mushroom and I personally promise that we are not some figment of someone else's imagination for the sake of amusement so get that out of your head right now.

"Now, if that is a lie and you are in the mind, then just hiding isn't doing you any good. But what might help is if you can reach the outside world or look for some sort of exit. At least you'd be having a good time, right? So why not take some time to look me in the eye and tell me and yourself what happened."

Diplomacy 42

DM Kathy 
Wednesday November 11th, 2020 2:47:38 PM
Kezzem uses a charge from his wand to heal Clovis. A few lingering cuts and bruises disappear.

Succotash catches Clovis's hand and assures him that you are all quite real.

Murphy explains how you killed the zygomind, and mentions Vitaly's body. A pained look crosses Clovis's face. "Vitaly," he says. "I couldn't--I couldn't help him. Not strong enough. And that thing--it was--it was in my head, and I couldn't keep it out. So I ran. I ran away like a coward. Poor Vitaly."

Pressi combines diplomacy and logic to try to get Clovis to accept that you are real, and to let you help. It seems to be working. Hobie offers a more practical solution, and Clovis downs a healthy slug of whiskey. "Thanks, friend," he says. He closes his eyes, and takes a deep breath.

"All right," he says. "All right. Maybe you are real. So, what happens now?"

Bliss has a Heal spell available, but it looks as if it won't be needed, at least for the time being.

Bliss HP165+12/165 AC32 | Mookie HP76+8/76 AC41 | Cayzle 
Wednesday November 11th, 2020 5:19:16 PM

"Buddy, what's next is we find any others of your pals still in here and we rescue them too. Who else is there still left? We got you and Vitaly. Who's left, and have you any idea where they went?"

"Oh, and your friend, what's her name, Diana? She escaped and asked us to help. That's why we're here."

Mookie teleps: ::Diara, Kid. Her name is Daira, I mean geez. ::

Bliss blushes. "Diara, I mean your friend Diara. Sorry."

Mookie keeps watch, flying up for a better view from time to time.

Murphy Leafwin Pipewood(KimMc) Halfling Druid - AC 46/T-25/Fl-38 CMD 37 HP 174 
Wednesday November 11th, 2020 9:16:03 PM

Repeat: Did the two bodies we found after Vitaly match the descriptions of anyone in Diara's party?

Pressi (Melvin) - AC 26 (31), HP 132, CMD 25; Harper AC 30 (35), HP 94, CMD 29 (34) 
Wednesday November 11th, 2020 9:53:51 PM
Pressi eyes Clovis carefully, thinking about how he ran AFTER the thing got in his head. But she takes the time to place her hand sympathetically upon him (and quickly scan him with Knowledge Lore).

"You can also start by saying if you saw anyone else in the area. See, I can't help but wonder... If last you saw of him was when he was alive, and you ran from him, then who stabbed him in the face?"

The Kezz'm (BrianW) - AC 39/20/34; HP 219/219; Rumpus AC 32/15/27 HP 95/95 
Thursday November 12th, 2020 2:08:14 AM
"Well, it's heroic if he needs it and it helps him," says Kezzem. "But he is barely injured and he's no suffering any magical curses or anything, at least I don't think so. It's wasteful to just start throwing powerful spells at him before we properly assess whether they will work or not."

Kezzem turns to Pressi. "Did I just become the voice of caution in this group? If so, we're doomed."

Succotash (Jeremy) AC 32/17/30 CMD 21 HP 115/115 Valerie AC 38/16/33 CMD 28 HP 109/109 Spells 
Thursday November 12th, 2020 5:52:55 AM
Succotash turns to Pressi and whispers in her ear, "Don't forget that Vitaly was turned into a zombie, Clovis probably had no choice but to re-kill his own friend, just to remain alive. I'm sure that is a sad and painful memory, perhaps we should step lightly in that area. I know if one of us were turned, and I had to slay that person in self defense, I wouldn't be comfortable talking about it, as I'm sure the memory would be beyond painful."

Turning to Clovis and the rest of the party, Succotash says, "Diara told us that a couple of her friends went this way, by some sort of compulsion, we know now that those two where Vitaly and Clovis here, and that they were drawn this way by the know dead Zygomind. Diara also mentioned that the rest of her friends headed in another direction, towards the ruins if I remember right, so I say we head toward the ruins, and hope to find some more survivors, and failing that, end the evil that stole the life from their bodies!"


DM Kathy 
Thursday November 12th, 2020 2:43:37 PM
Bliss asks who is still left, and whether Clovis knows what might have happened to them. "I didn't see the others after we--after the---afterward," he says. He adds, "Diara made it out? That's good. That's good. I'm glad for her."

Murphy is quite sure that Vitaly was the only member of the party among the slain undead. The other corpses were far too old, an anyway there was no indication that the others had been caught by the zygomind.

Pressi asks who stabbed Vitaly. Clovis shudders. "That thing," he says quietly. "That thing--it--it wasn't Vitaly anymore." Pressi also uses her Knowledge Lore ability, and now your senile DM has forgotten all of what that's supposed to reveal. For now, I'll just say that you don't see anything you wouldn't expect to see in an adventuring halfling ranger.

Kezzem points out that this might not be the best use of expensive spells, but to be fair, people have stopped talking about casting those, for the moment.

Succotash reminds the group that the rest of Diara's party had gone in another direction, and perhaps now is the time to go find them. Clovis looks hesitant. "I don't think....I don't think I'm much good to you now. Lost the adventuring spirit. I may never adventure again."

Murphy Leafwin Pipewood(KimMc) Halfling Druid - AC 46/T-25/Fl-38 CMD 37 HP 174 
Thursday November 12th, 2020 6:47:18 PM

"Perhaps you're not wanting to adventure more. But, to maintain a modicum of self-respect, are you willing to help us find your companions? You know them better than we do," Murphy cajoles. "Come with us, stay in the background, we will do what we can to intercept threats. Once we can return all of you we can find, then we shall return as a group to the Wold. Until then, I think you are stuck with us."

Pressi (Melvin) - AC 26 (31), HP 132, CMD 25; Harper AC 30 (35), HP 94, CMD 29 (34) 
Thursday November 12th, 2020 8:26:15 PM
Pressi seems satisfied that he didn't ping as anything but a halfling adventurer. "My apologies, I must have misunderstood the situation."

She takes some time to get a better idea of how they came in and were geared, and what it was like when it started to take over his mind. She also backs up Murphy, pointing out that it would be better for him to be close once they found the rest of Diara's party.

Back in an area where there is no place to track, she fires up the arcane eye to begin searching.

The Kezz'm (BrianW) - AC 39/20/34; HP 219/219; Rumpus AC 32/15/27 HP 95/95 
Friday November 13th, 2020 1:05:26 AM
"Maybe you could shove him in your hole, Murphey," suggests Kezzem. "Or does it not work that way?"

Succotash (Jeremy) AC 32/17/30 CMD 21 HP 115/115 Valerie AC 38/16/33 CMD 28 HP 109/109 Spells 
Friday November 13th, 2020 6:46:42 AM
Succotash tries to bolster Murphy’s efforts at convincing Clovis to join them, “We aren’t leaving until we find the rest of your friends. We have a mission, and we aim to follow through with it. We won’t abandon any other possible survivors, and no halfling I know would stoop to such cowardly ways! Now prove yourself a halfling proper, and come with us. If you don’t have any fight left in you, I can understand that, as Murph said you can stay behind us if things get sketchy, and we will protect you, that’s what we do, but now is the time to get on ones feet, and move forward!”

After sharing his bit, Succotash stands up and is ready to follow where ever Pressi’s eye thingy leads.

DM Kathy 
Friday November 13th, 2020 2:57:29 PM
Kezzem suggests that Clovis could go in the Portable Hole, but without a Bottle of Air, that's a bad idea.

Murphy urges Clovis to find his courage and accompany the group. Succotash adds his own encouragement.

At last, Clovis reluctantly agrees to come with you. "I suppose I could shoot things from a distance," he says.

Pressi would like to get to a clear area to use her arcane eye. Diara did give you the rough location where she lost the rest of the party; would you like to go there?

Bliss HP165+12/165 AC32 | Mookie HP76+8/76 AC41 | Cayzle 
Friday November 13th, 2020 3:30:19 PM

Bliss clasps hands with the reluctant adventurer. "That's the spirit," he says. "Honestly, we need to keep you close so that we can all bug out together when the time comes!"

[OOC: Sorry, this is probably my bad brain, but who else are we looking for? If we do not know, Bliss will clarify with Clovis here. If we do know, please just remind this old gamer playing characters with better memories than his own.]

Murphy Leafwin Pipewood(KimMc) Halfling Druid - AC 46/T-25/Fl-38 CMD 37 HP 174 
Friday November 13th, 2020 5:34:03 PM

"We always appreciate good missile support, Clovis. Now, with you, poor Vitaly, and Diara accounted for, that leaves Elora and Harmet to find, unless I've left someone out - let me know if that is the case," Murphy says.. "Last she knew, Diara heard someone, I think Elora and Harmet, screaming, but then she was set upon by undead, mainly wraiths, then somehow managed to get back out of this pocket plane." He looks to his companions. "Let me know if you remember any salient information she told us that I may have forgotten."

The Kezz'm (BrianW) - AC 39/20/34; HP 219/219; Rumpus AC 32/15/27 HP 95/95 
Saturday November 14th, 2020 1:40:52 AM
"Hobie, looks like you're out of a job," jokes Kezzem.

Succotash (Jeremy) AC 32/17/30 CMD 21 HP 115/115 Valerie AC 38/16/33 CMD 28 HP 109/109 Spells 
Sunday November 15th, 2020 11:23:47 AM
"I think you nailed it Murph!" Succotash say in response, then adds, "Let's head toward where the screaming came from, and pray to the gods that we find our missing adventures. Oh by the way, when this is all said and done, who's willing to return with me to give these poor souls, whom the zygomind destroyed, a proper sending off? I'm thinking either a mass funeral pyre or individual graves to honor the dead. Both would be respectful, but the pyre would be far less labor intensive."

Bliss HP165+12/165 AC32 | Mookie HP76+8/76 AC41 | Cayzle 
Sunday November 15th, 2020 10:26:31 PM

"Thanks Mister Murphy! Elora and Harmet." Bliss tries to recall what he has heard about them.

Hearing the druid mention wraiths makes Bliss remember his new wand of Death Ward. The problem is that a charge only lasts seven minutes.

He changes back to a cat and then changes back. He keeps his wand at the ready. He would so rather use it before the battle, even if he has to waste charges because of a hair trigger. Well before the party sees any place or shadows or undead or anything, he is ready to start spreading charges around.

"Does anybody have any way to detect undead coming in from a long way off?"

Succotash (Jeremy) AC 32/17/30 CMD 21 HP 115/115 Valerie AC 38/16/33 CMD 28 HP 109/109 Spells 
Monday November 16th, 2020 5:45:00 AM
Succotash Thumps his forehead with the palm of his hand, and says to himself, "Succotash you fool, you knew you were going to a place filled with the walking dead, and yet you failed to prepare a simple spell like detect undead. What kind of cleric are you?" Turning to Bliss he says, "Sorry Bliss, I guess I'm still an amateur at this cleric thing. I have all these abilities and still struggle at times to get it right, but I suppose that is to be expected since I've been a cleric for less then a year now, even though I've been an adventurer for a fairly long time."

OOC... Seriously, Why didn't I think to prepare detect undead, when we were given ample warning that we would be dealing with undead? Sorry guys, total brain fart on my end, though it did open itself for a great role play moment, so there's that.

Pressi (Melvin) - AC 26 (31), HP 132, CMD 25; Harper AC 30 (35), HP 94, CMD 29 (34) 
Monday November 16th, 2020 10:26:02 AM
Pressi responds to Bliss that they have the rod of alertness.

She also activates arcane eye at the proper location.

Murphy Leafwin Pipewood(KimMc) Halfling Druid - AC 46/T-25/Fl-38 CMD 37 HP 174 
Monday November 16th, 2020 11:27:09 AM

"So, Clovis, you're a ranger, right?" Murphy prompts. "Elora Helethar, an elf wizard. And the paladin in your group, Harmet Ells. I take it Diara finds him rather dashing. If you recall what gear they carried, how they dressed, that might be helpful."

The Endless Battle


DM Kathy 
Monday November 16th, 2020 2:35:27 PM
[Everybody take 17,500 XP for the previous scene.]

You pause for an update. You remember that the two party members still unaccounted for are Elora Helethar (elf wizard) and Harmet Ells (human paladin). Some of you may also remember Diara telling you that Harmet is rather dashing, and that both she and Elora were a little sweet on him. You have pretty good descriptions of both of them

Bliss has a wand of Death Ward that may be of some use against undead, although its duration is on the short side. He asks about ways to detect undead, and Succotash sheepishly admits that he neglected to prepare anything for that.

You move toward the location where Diara remembered hearing screams. As you approach the area, you hear the unmistakable sounds of combat. Pressi casts her Arcane Eye.

Murphy Leafwin Pipewood(KimMc) Halfling Druid - AC 46/T-25/Fl-38 CMD 37 HP 174  d20+14=34 ; d20+14=29 ; d20+14=27 ;
Monday November 16th, 2020 3:09:39 PM

Murphy lets folks know he has a wand of hide from undead with 47 charges. "Let's take one minute to prepare, then head on in," he recommends. Using 3 UMD skill checks, he activates it first upon himself, and offers two ten-minute charges to two other people. If Succotash wants to take over the wand at that point to aid others, it's available. [First two to dibs it get hide from undead]

He casts Freedom of Movement, then Call Lightning Storm.
==========
3 x Hide from Undead (10 min. each)
Freedom of Movement
Call Lightning Storm
possible more - 5 rounds available w/in 1 minute prep time - will see what others are doing or need.
Depending upon what others do, he may wildshape into... something

Succotash (Jeremy) AC 32/17/30 CMD 21 HP 147/147(115) Valerie AC 38/16/33 CMD 28 HP 131/131(109) Spells  d8+6=9 ; d8+6=13 ;
Monday November 16th, 2020 6:33:35 PM
In preparation for the battle ahead, Succotash casts Mass Bear's Endurance, on all his friends, as well as Clovis. He is willing to use Murphy's offered, Hide From Undead wand if anyone wishes, and just before they head to the battle, he casts prayer on his friends, and Clovis. Prayer offers the below benefits, and lasts 16 rounds. The enemies get no save for the penalties, but SR applies. Kind DM please let me know if and how many SR roles I need to make when the time comes.

Right after he casts prayer on his friends, he while riding Valerie double move towards the battle (Valerie travels 70ft per round so a double move equals 140ft)

If any of his friends aren't ready to go, he will hold off on casting prayer until they are, and will stay with the party

Prayer
You bring special favor upon yourself and your allies while bringing disfavor to your enemies. You and each of your allies gain a +1 luck bonus on attack rolls, weapon damage rolls, saves, and skill checks, while each of your foes takes a -1 penalty on such rolls.

Active spells and daily stuff:
Succotash:
Channel energy= 9/9 (8d6 DC 22)
Dimensional hop= 160/160ft
Agile feet= 12/12
Speak with animals= 19/19
Hero's feast= 9 temp hp
Prayer= 16/16 rounds
Bear's endurance= 16/16 min (32 bonus HP)

Valerie:
Hero's feast= 13 temp hp
Airwalk
Longstrider
Prayer= 16/16 rounds
Bear's endurance= 16/16 min (22 bonus HP)


Pressi (Melvin) - AC 26 (31), HP 132, CMD 25; Harper AC 30 (35), HP 94, CMD 29 (34) 
Monday November 16th, 2020 7:19:47 PM
Pressi responds to Bliss that they have the rod of alertness.

She also activates arcane eye at the proper location.

Hobie (Nick T) HP 189/181 AC 33 Touch 19 Flat 27 CMD 37 Hero Points 8 Prepared Spells 
Tuesday November 17th, 2020 11:28:45 AM
Hobie is thankful for the prayer, and gets ready for the battle to come

Pressi (Melvin) - AC 26 (31), HP 132, CMD 25; Harper AC 30 (35), HP 94, CMD 29 (34) 
Tuesday November 17th, 2020 2:04:54 PM
Pressi responds to Bliss that they have the rod of alertness.

She also activates arcane eye at the proper location.

Pressi (Melvin) - AC 26 (31), HP 132, CMD 25; Harper AC 30 (35), HP 94, CMD 29 (34) 
Tuesday November 17th, 2020 2:05:44 PM
Pressi moves her arcane eye forward, looking to spot the enemy.

DM Kathy 
Tuesday November 17th, 2020 2:43:00 PM
Murphy uses a wand to cast Hide from Undead.

Succotash casts Mass Bear's Endurance.

Hobie prepares his gear.

While those preparations are going on, Pressi sends her Arcane Eye toward the sounds of battle. Looking through the Eye, you can soon see who is fighting--two ghostly forms. One looks like a human man in plate armor. The other is some kind of monster, with a bulbous body, many-jointed legs, and two gnashing maws. Knowledge Dungeoneering DC 23 Highlight to display spoiler: { It is a dwiergeth}.

Murphy Leafwin Pipewood(KimMc) Halfling Druid - AC 47/T-25/Fl-39 CMD 42 HP 174+12temp  d8+8=12 ;
Tuesday November 17th, 2020 5:26:19 PM

Murphy ensures that Clovis receives hide from undead (10 minutes). He casts longstrider on himself. He receives the bear's endurance and Prayer from Succotash just after changing to his favorite wildshape, huge air elemental. He asks Pressi what she is able to discern about what is happening. "Ready all? Shall we go?" Unless someone says otherwise, he then rises into the air flying in a path slightly to the right of the sounds of battle.

===========
Rolled temp hit points from Heroes' Feast (forgot to roll earlier): 12 hp temp.
Heroes' Feast 12 temp hp, +1 morale bonus on attack rolls and Will saves, +4 morale bonus vs poison. 10 hours.
Magic Fang, Greater +4 enhancement bonus on unarmed attack and damage rolls. 15 hours.
Freedom of Movement 160 minutes - Move and attack normally for the duration of the spell, even under the influence of magic that usually impedes movement, such as paralysis, solid fog, slow, and web. All combat maneuver checks made to grapple the target automatically fail. The subject automatically succeeds on any combat maneuver checks and Escape Artist checks made to escape a grapple or a pin. 160 minutes.
Call Lightning Storm As Call Lightning except each 5-foot-wide, 30-foot-long vertical bolt of lightning deals 5d6 points of electricity damage (or 5d10 if created outdoors in a stormy area), and you may call a maximum of 15 bolts. Reflex Save DC 31 for 1/2 damage. 16 minutes.
Longstrider+10 foot enhancement bonus to base speed. 16 hours.
From Succotash:
Prayer (+1 luck bonus on att/dam/sav/skills) 16 rounds
Bear's endurance 16/16 min

Succotash (Jeremy) AC 32/17/30 CMD 21 HP 147/147(115) Valerie AC 38/16/33 CMD 28 HP 131/131(109) Spells 
Tuesday November 17th, 2020 5:39:09 PM
Succotash is ready and he and Valerie join Murphy in the skies, towards the battle. (I assume Pressi gave us a heads up)

Prayer
You bring special favor upon yourself and your allies while bringing disfavor to your enemies. You and each of your allies gain a +1 luck bonus on attack rolls, weapon damage rolls, saves, and skill checks, while each of your foes takes a -1 penalty on such rolls.

Active spells and daily stuff:
Succotash:
Channel energy= 9/9 (8d6 DC 22)
Dimensional hop= 160/160ft
Agile feet= 12/12
Speak with animals= 19/19
Hero's feast= 9 temp hp
Prayer= 16/16 rounds
Bear's endurance= 16/16 min (32 bonus HP)

Valerie:
Hero's feast= 13 temp hp
Airwalk
Longstrider
Prayer= 16/16 rounds
Bear's endurance= 16/16 min (22 bonus HP)

Bliss HP165+12/165 AC32 | Mookie HP76+8/76 AC41 | Cayzle 
Tuesday November 17th, 2020 9:08:59 PM
[OOC: Huh! Did I miss a post? I was sure I had said I had already tapped everybody with the wand of Death Ward! Maybe I was just thinking of the email conversation? Well, I hope we can consider that already done.]

"Well, what are we waiting for?" asks Bliss. "Let's get over there and figure out what is happening!"

"Are those ghosts?! Are they evil?"

Bliss changes into a cat. He activates his Shield of Faith. As he moves, he casts Divine Favor as an SLA. After that, he activates his Arcane Strike every round as he approaches.

Mookie downs a potion of Mirror Image and flies after his master.

Pressi (Melvin) - AC 26 (31), HP 132, CMD 25; Harper AC 30 (35), HP 94, CMD 29 (34)  d12=6 ;
Tuesday November 17th, 2020 9:28:09 PM
Pressi passes along what she sees but she can't quite process what's going on, and she won't even try to guess what that spider creature is.

It does occur to her, however, that the human might be Harmet... or what's left of him.

Pressi casts shield of faith and spectral hand. Harper licks her chops. Pressi also activates the Rod of Alterness now to ascertain whether either guy is friendly (and to determine whether any other foes are in the area).

---------------

Pressi
Ritual of Warding
Ritual of Spiritual Healing
Heroes Feast (from Bliss)
shield of faith
spectral hand
Hide from Undead

Harper
Ritual of Warding
Heroes Feast (from Bliss)
Hide from Undead

Spells Used

L1: 3
L2: 1
L4: 1
L5: 1
L6: 1
L7: 1
remote viewing: 1

Rod of Alertness: used alertness mode

The Kezz'm (BrianW) - AC 39/20/34; HP 219/219; Rumpus AC 32/15/27 HP 95/95 
Tuesday November 17th, 2020 11:36:20 PM
Kezzem will cast Prayer as the group prepares for combat and takes point.

Hobie (Nick T) HP 189/181 AC 33 Touch 19 Flat 27 CMD 37 Hero Points 8 Prepared Spells 
Wednesday November 18th, 2020 8:45:58 AM
Hobie will take out one of his scrolls of Fly, and cast it on himself, and then he'll fly toward the sounds of fighting as well.

Hobie (Nick T) HP 189/181 AC 33 Touch 19 Flat 27 CMD 37 Hero Points 8 Prepared Spells 
Wednesday November 18th, 2020 8:47:00 AM
Before the Fly scroll he will also use a scroll of Flame Arrow on 50 arrows.

Murphy Leafwin Pipewood(KimMc) Huge Air Elemental - AC 47/T-25/Fl-39 CMD 42 HP 174+12temp 
Wednesday November 18th, 2020 1:23:49 PM

Murphy flies up and over the battle to see what is happening. "Does either show as evil?" he asks those who might know. He rather suspects the bulbous fellow.

DM Kathy 
Wednesday November 18th, 2020 3:25:54 PM
Murphy finishes his Hide From Undead spells, casts Longstrider, and heads toward the sounds of battle. Succotash and Valerie follow.

Bliss changes into a cat, activates Shield of Faith, and also moves toward the battle.

Kezzem casts Prayer and also moves toward the battle.

Hobie casts Flame Arrow and Fly, and also moves that way.

Pressi casts Shield of Faith and Spectral Hand, and activates the Rod of Alertness.

You all head toward the battle. You see what Pressi saw a few rounds ago through her Arcane Eye--two spectral forms engaged in combat. One appears to be a human man. The other is some kind of creature. DC 23 Knowledge Dungeoneering Highlight to display spoiler: {It is a Dwiergeth}. The human is slashing with a longsword; the monster is biting with its two mouths, which is downright unsettling.

After a moment, you realize that there are two dead bodies on the ground beneath the combatants. One appears to be humanoid; the other is a creature of some kind.

As you watch, the ghostly creature lands a devastating bite on the ghostly man, who screams in pain. The creature seems to be trying to swallow him while he frantically bashes at it with his sword. The creature bellows, lets go, and collapses. The man takes a couple of staggering steps back before collapsing himself. Both ghostly figures then disappear, leaving only the corpses on the ground.

The Kezz'm (BrianW) - AC 39/20/34; HP 219/219; Rumpus AC 32/15/27 HP 95/95  d20+24=32 ;
Wednesday November 18th, 2020 6:24:51 PM
Kezzem will detect evil and look for the ghosts.

Perception: 32.

"Did they just kill each other, and than kill each other's ghost?"

Bliss HP165+12/165 AC32 | Mookie HP76+8/76 AC41 | Cayzle 
Wednesday November 18th, 2020 8:24:30 PM

"The Kid thinks maybe they are doomed to repeat their death scene over and over. I think maybe they got some sweet loot on those bodies!"

Pressi (Melvin) - AC 26 (31), HP 132, CMD 25; Harper AC 30 (35), HP 94, CMD 29 (34) 
Wednesday November 18th, 2020 9:32:58 PM
"That... seems rather out of place, even for a plane of death."

After a few detects (of magic, of chaos, of see invisibility) using the rod, she slowly makes her way towards the bodies. She uses her Know Lore ability to scan both with a touch.

Finally, she raises her hands over the humanoid and casts speak with dead (domain spell).

---------------

Pressi
Ritual of Warding
Ritual of Spiritual Healing
Heroes Feast (from Bliss)
shield of faith
spectral hand
Hide from Undead

Harper
Ritual of Warding
Heroes Feast (from Bliss)
Hide from Undead

Spells Used

L1: 3
L2: 1
L3: 0+1
L4: 1
L5: 1
L6: 1
L7: 1
remote viewing: 1

Rod of Alertness: used alertness mode

Murphy Leafwin Pipewood(KimMc) Huge Air Elemental - AC 47/T-25/Fl-39 CMD 42 HP 174+12temp  d20+7=23 ;
Thursday November 19th, 2020 3:37:23 AM
Murphy dives from the sky as he sees the two ghostly foes exchanging final blows. "A dwiergeth!" the druid exclaims. As his friends gather about, he explains, "My Aunt Nilli - Nilli Bramble - once took a misshapen potato, punched some scraggly bent twigs into it, put some strawberry top leafs under the twigs for feet, and said, 'This is a dwiergeth.' She explained they were big, ugly, and had an extradimensional gullet where those swallowed might get lost." He works at remembering more of what she said, but I will leave it to DM Kathy to explain how much more (if anything else) he might recall.
=======
Knowledge: Dungeoneering: 23

Succotash (Jeremy) AC 32/17/30 CMD 21 HP 147/147(115) Valerie AC 38/16/33 CMD 28 HP 131/131(109) Spells  d20+26=31 ;
Thursday November 19th, 2020 5:45:19 AM
Succotash prods Valerie forward, and then dismounts to examine the corpses, but most importantly the man's corpse. He is trying see if this is one of the lost adventures. He says to his friends, [b]"Well it's pretty clear how these two died, but what caused the ghostly pantomime? This is odd indeed!" The cleric keeps his guard up as he searches the bodies and area for clues. (perception 31)

Hobie (Nick T) HP 189/181 AC 33 Touch 19 Flat 27 CMD 37 Hero Points 8 Prepared Spells 
Thursday November 19th, 2020 9:58:53 AM
Hobie flies overhead as his friends examine the bodies. He keeps his bow at the ready and his eyes trained in all directions, constantly searching the horizon for some new threat

DM Kathy 
Thursday November 19th, 2020 5:05:23 PM
Pressi's rod isn't showing her anything at the moment. You use your ability on the two bodies. You learn all about the dwiergeth. The other body is that of a human paladin.

Any doubts as to his identity are erased when Clovis finally joins you. "Oh, no," he says. "Harmet. Oh, no. What happened?"

Murphy recognizes the dwiergeth, and can tell the group about it.

At this point, between Pressi and Murphy, you guys know about dwiergeths. I'm going to say that anybody who is curious can click on the link and read all about them.

Bliss (or rather, Mookie) suggests there might be some nice loot to be had.

Kezzem, Succotash, and Hobie remain on alert, scanning the area. And a good thing, too. Just as Pressi begins casting her Speak with Dead spell, you hear a guttural roar. Kezzem suddenly detects the presence of evil, just as a ghostly dwiergeth appears, floating about 3 feet above the dwiergeth corpse. A man's voice calls, "begone, foul beast!" and a ghostly paladin appears about 3 feet above the humanoid form. With a roar and a clash, the two are joined in combat again.

Knowledge: Religion DC 15 Highlight to display spoiler: {For the most part, these beings are behaving like ghosts. However, although ghosts can regenerate after being "slain," that process usually takes days. These ghosts restored themselves in a matter of minutes. Perhaps it is some property of this plane. }

The Kezz'm (BrianW) - AC 39/20/34; HP 219/219; Rumpus AC 32/15/27 HP 95/95  d20+23=34 ; d20+28=38 ; d3+8=9 ; 2d6=6 ; d6=1 ;
Thursday November 19th, 2020 5:39:44 PM
Knowledge (religion): 34.

"Okay, headband of smartypantsness, do your thing. Aha! I see! Ghosts can regenerate after being slain, but these are revived in a must shorter time than normal. It must be some quirk of this place."

"Also, that beast-ghost-thing detects evil, so I'm going to start attacking it if nobody objects."

If nobody stops him, Kezzem will lob a dagger at the dwiergeth, using his undead bane tears to boost his attack.

Attack: 1d20 + 28 + 1 (Prayer) = 39.
Damage: 1d3+8 + 2d6 bane + 1d6 fire = 9 + 6 + 1 = 16.


Succotash (Jeremy) AC 32/17/30 CMD 21 HP 147/147(115) Valerie AC 38/16/33 CMD 28 HP 131/131(109) Spells  d20+14=16 ; 10d6=34 ; 10d8=38 ; d20+20=29 d20+20=28
Thursday November 19th, 2020 6:27:17 PM
Succotash quickly draws his wand of Searing Light (CL 10) and aims it at the dwiergeth ghost. A ray of sunshine emits from the end of the wand and streaks towards the undead menace. Hitting touch AC 18 (forgot to add the +1 from Hero's feast, and +1 from Prayer) for 34 damage. if it is vulnerable to bright light it takes 38 instead.

Don't know if it has SR or not, but I rolled 29 for the searing light, and 28 for the prayer, for the -1 on it's rolls.

Active spells and daily stuff:
Succotash:
Channel energy= 9/9 (8d6 DC 22)
Dimensional hop= 160/160ft
Agile feet= 12/12
Speak with animals= 19/19
Hero's feast= 9 temp hp
Prayer= 14/16 rounds
Bear's endurance= 16/16 min (32 bonus HP)

Valerie:
Hero's feast= 13 temp hp
Airwalk
Longstrider
Prayer= 14/16 rounds
Bear's endurance= 16/16 min (22 bonus HP)

Pressi (Melvin) - AC 26 (31), HP 132, CMD 25; Harper AC 30 (35), HP 94, CMD 29 (34) 
Thursday November 19th, 2020 9:27:48 PM
"Ok, you know what, I am really not willing to bet that fast ghost resets are a good thing. We should really take some time to think about...."

Pressi watches as the team's paladins begin to engage.

"...about whether you want to convince me that you don't care if its a trap."

If someone else calls for a buff, she does that. Otherwise, she attempts to scan the ghostly paladin.

"Hey, hey," she calls out to him as Harper also tries to get his attention. "Can you hear me? Do you know who and where you are?"

---------------

Pressi
Ritual of Warding
Ritual of Spiritual Healing
Heroes Feast (from Bliss)
shield of faith
spectral hand
Hide from Undead

Harper
Ritual of Warding
Heroes Feast (from Bliss)
Hide from Undead

Spells Used

L1: 3
L2: 1
L3: 0
L4: 1
L5: 1
L6: 1
L7: 1
remote viewing: 1

Rod of Alertness: used alertness mode

Murphy Leafwin Pipewood(KimMc) Huge Air Elemental - AC 47/T-25/Fl-39 CMD 42 HP 174+12temp  5d6=16 ;
Friday November 20th, 2020 2:33:27 AM
Murphy drops a lightning bolt for 16 hp damage on the large potato monster (8 hp if Reflex save vs DC 31), the first of his 15 possible bolts from Call Lightning.

He pays attention to Pressi's attempt to communicate with the ghostly paladin.

Succotash (Jeremy) AC 32/17/30 CMD 21 HP 147/147(115) Valerie AC 38/16/33 CMD 28 HP 131/131(109) Spells 
Friday November 20th, 2020 5:24:31 AM
Don't forget, everyone has prayer and bear's endurance from Succotash. Prayer and hero's feast stack because heroes feast is a moral bonus, and prayer is a luck bonus.

Bliss HP213+12/165 AC29 | Mookie HP76+8/76 AC41 | Cayzle  d20+40=55 ; d20+31=45 ; d3+25=28 ; 4d6=15 ; d4+1=3 ; d20+24=44 ; d20+24=26 ; d4+9=13 ; 4d6=17 ;
Friday November 20th, 2020 8:08:54 AM

Note: Everybody has ...
1) Death Ward: +4 morale bonus on saves against all death spells and magical death effects. The subject is granted a save to negate such effects even if one is not normally allowed. The subject is immune to energy drain and any negative energy effects.
2) Feast: +1 morale bonus on attack rolls and Will saves and a +4 morale bonus on saving throws against poison and fear.
3) Morale bonuses do not stack.

CatBliss is now bolstered with Barkskin, Threefold Aspect, Death Ward, Heroes Feast, Prayer, Bear's Endurance, Shield of Faith, and Divine Favor. This round Bliss focuses on the battle (rage ability) as a free action and activates his Arcane Strike as a swift action. He races toward the ghost-monster (move action up to 40 ft) and attacks. Most of these except the Prayer are already calculated on my CatBliss PC sheet.

Charging and raging, Bliss has a -4 AC and is down to AC 29. He hopes he does not get swallowed before he gets to attack. He tumbles to avoid provoking AoOs: Acrobatics 55 to do so.

Attacking at +2 charge +1 prayer +2 bane plus the usual bonuses on his sheet, Bliss bites vs AC 45 for 28 damage plus 15 holy bane damage, that's 43 damage total. Oh wait, Bane has a +2 enhancement to damage too, so 45 damage total.

Mookie uses his flyby attack to fly up, attack the ghost, and fly back, counting on his high AC and his three mirror images to save him if attacked. He strikes at AC44 with a natural 20! His crit threat confirms against AC26, just shy of what he needs to confirm. Mookie inflicts 13 base damage plus 17 holy bane damage, 30 points total. Then he flaps up out of reach, hopefully.

-----

DM Sanity:

Attacks +1 Prayer (Div Favor and Feast already in the table on my sheet)
Saves

Hit points are base 165 +32 raging +16 bears endurance (half effective because Bliss already has a +2 enhancement bonus) then +12 temp equals 213+12.



DM Kathy  d20+11=27 ;
Friday November 20th, 2020 8:58:15 PM
Seeing the battle start up again, Pressi advises caution. She is overruled, however, because, you know, paladins. You call out to the ghostly human. He glances in your direction, then turns his attention back to the fight. "I am Harmet Ells, good lady," he replies. "Oh, well struck!" he adds, as Kezzem's attack lands. It does damage, but there is some resistance. [They are DR 10/lawful]

Succotash casts Searing Light from a wand. The creature does have SR, but you have overcome it each time. It takes the damage, but does not seem vulnerable to bright light.

Murphy drops a lightning bolt on the ghostly creature, which will do 16 damage if Murphy overcomes SR.

Bliss and Mookie attack, and do a lot of damage!

The ghost of Harmet Ells slashes with its longsword, and Clovis adds a couple of arrows for good measure.

The ghost opens both its maws wide and lets out a fearful moan. The sound is enough to make the blood run cold! All living creatures must succeed at a DC 21 Will save or be panicked for 2d4 rounds.

[I'm going to try to do this without a map; let me know if that's not working for you.]

The Kezz'm (BrianW) - AC 39/20/34; HP 219/219; Rumpus AC 32/15/27 HP 95/95  d20+30=50 ; d20+30=33 ; d3+34=37 ; d6=5 ; d3+34=37 ;
Saturday November 21st, 2020 1:43:21 PM
Kezzem gets closes to Bliss and whoever else he can get within 10 feet (favoring Hobie and melee attackers). He uses to smite evil's to activate his Aura of Justice, granting all the benefits of his Smite Evil (+3 to hit, +14 damage [+28 on first hit vs. undead], and bypass DR; also +3 AC vs. attacks from the creature).

(so that's a move and a free action, assuming he doesn't need to double move to get in range...)

Kezzem will use a 3rd use of Smite evil on himself (swift action) and attack.

Attack: 1d20 + 26 + 3 (Smite Evil) + 1 (Prayer) = 50. Natural 20!
Confirm: 1d20 + 26 + 3 (Smite Evil) + 1 (Prayer) = 33.

Damage: 1d3+5 + 28 (Smite Evil) + 1 (Prayer) + 1d6 Fire = 37 + 5 fire = 42.
Crit Damage: 1d3+5 + 28 (Smite Evil) + 1 (Prayer) = 37.
Total: 79.

I believe incorporeal creatures are immune to crits in PF 1e.

Murphy Leafwin Pipewood(KimMc) Huge Air Elemental - AC 47/T-25/Fl-39 CMD 42 HP 174+12temp  d20+16=21 ; d20+16=35 ; 5d6=18 ;
Sunday November 22nd, 2020 11:47:21 PM

Murphy did not quite overcome the SR 24 last round (21/24), but does manage to do so handily this round (SR 35/24) doing 18 hp electrical damage (half electrical, half divine) with a 30' tall 5' diameter lightning bolt (Reflex save vs DC 31 for 1/2 damage).

Don't even need to roll the will save - the druid has 1d20+26 for a will save.

Succotash (Jeremy) AC 32/17/30 CMD 21 HP 147/147(115) Valerie AC 38/16/33 CMD 28 HP 131/131(109) Spells  d20+6=22 ; d20+20=28 ; 10d6=21 ; d20+16=18 ;
Monday November 23rd, 2020 6:23:19 AM
Succotash get +22 on will saves, and +24 (+28 if within 10 ft of Kezzem) verses fear, so he auto passes his will save, and Valerie rolls a 22 (26 if within 10 ft of Kezzem), passing.

Succotash fires off another sun ray from his wand of searing light, (SR 28) hitting touch AC 18 and causing 21 damage

Pressi (Melvin) - AC 26 (31), HP 132, CMD 25; Harper AC 30 (35), HP 94, CMD 29 (34)  d20+16=30 ; d20+4=13 ; d20+15=18 ;
Monday November 23rd, 2020 8:19:14 AM
Pressi ignores the ghostly creature. Harper does not fair so well, and with that base speed its not long before the jungle cat disappears along the horizon. "That's not great," Pressi notes.

Pressi turns her attention back towards Harmet. "Well a how diddly do to you too, kind sir. Hey, so how often do we do this, out of curiosity?"

Moving her spectral hand, Pressi tries to bestow a curse upon the ghost (-4 to various rolls) but can't beat the creature's SR (I rolled a 3).



Bliss HP213+12/165 AC31 | Mookie HP76+8/76 AC41 | Cayzle  d20+11=21 ; d20+19=38 ; d20+29=38 ; d3+25=28 ; 4d6=13 ; d20+27=46 ; d20+27=40 ; d2+26=27 ; d2+26=28 ; d20+24=41 ; d4+9=13 ; 4d6=9 ;
Monday November 23rd, 2020 2:09:38 PM
DC 21 Will saves vs fear -- Remember, Heroes Feast grants a +4 vs fear! Mookie rolls a 21 and passes. Bliss (with a +2 for being a halfling and a +2 for raging) rolls a 38.

Unaffected by the terror, Bliss and Mookie attack again. This time CatBliss adds in his claws, and Mookie dives down and then swoops back up.

Bliss bites AC38 for 28 damage plus 13 holy bane damage. His claws hit ACs 46 and 40 for 27 and 28 damage.

Mookie's flyby attack hits AC41 for 13 plus 9 holy undead bane damage.



The Kezz'm (BrianW) - AC 39/20/34; HP 219/219; Rumpus AC 32/15/27 HP 95/95 
Monday November 23rd, 2020 3:48:47 PM
Btw, I am assuming Kezzem, being immune to fear, does not need a save.

DM Kathy  d20=12 ; 2d10=9 ; d4=3 ;
Monday November 23rd, 2020 4:08:30 PM
The ghostly dwiergeth seems to heal some of the damage you inflicted on it.

Kezzem grants his allies the ability to smite this evil thing! Then he smites this evil thing! He does a lot of damage, but as he had feared, he cannot critically hit a ghost. [And you're right that it's a fear effect, so you're 2 for 2]

Murphy's lightning didn't get through last round, but it does this round! The ghostly monster takes the full brunt of the damage.

[OOC: Unless you're actually immune to the effect, you do still need to roll a save. A natural 1 on a save automatically fails.]

Succotash keeps going with the Searing Light, but doesn't hit the creature's Touch AC. [My apologies; the last one wouldn't have hit either; I just straight up missed it.]

Pressi continues her conversation with Harmet, as Harper heads over the hills and far away. How often do we do this, out of curiosity? His smile fades. "I don't know. By Pantheon's grace, perhaps just this once. We shall see." Pressi tries a spell, but can't overcome the creature's resistance.

Bliss and Mookie keep after the ghost, inflicting more damage on it.

Harmet's ghost continues to slash with his sword, but Clovis has had enough. The ghost's moan is enough to send him fleeing.

The ghost dwiergeth glares at Kezzem. Kezzem takes 9 damage, and must succeed at a DC 21 Fortitude save or take 3 Charisma damage as well.

However, the ghost is looking hurt. You may be able to finish it off this round.

Murphy Leafwin Pipewood(KimMc) Huge Air Elemental - AC 47/T-25/Fl-39 CMD 42 HP 174+12temp  d20+30=41 ; 5d6=13 ; d20+16=32 ; d20+39=54 ;
Monday November 23rd, 2020 4:22:27 PM

Murphy managed the will save vs panic last round (41 should do it). Following the later, rinse, repeat formula, he drops a third lightning bolt for 13 hp (DC 31, SR: 32).

He works at learning the form and coloration of the potato monster for an up-and-coming painting, as well as the ghostly paladin. (Perception: 54) He listens in on Pressi's conversation with the noble ghost.

Bliss HP213+12/165 AC31 | Mookie HP76+8/76 AC41 | Cayzle 
Monday November 23rd, 2020 4:30:53 PM

"MeeOWW!"

"The Kid is excited that you can share your smite, Oh Wize and Wizened Kezz'm," says Mookie.

[OOC: Did not realize that in my last post! Please add on +14 damage times howeversomany times Bliss hit. Mookie was out of range to share.]

Succotash (Jeremy) AC 32/17/30 CMD 21 HP 147/147(115) Valerie AC 38/16/33 CMD 28 HP 131/131(109) Spells  d20=9 ; d20+20=22 ; d20+16=20 ; 10d6=35 ;
Monday November 23rd, 2020 5:18:51 PM
Didn't roll a 1 (rolled a 9) so Succotash is fine verse the fear attack

Succotash murmurs under his breath after missing twice in a row, but decides to keep trying, hitting AC 20 (SR 22) for 35 damage.

Active spells and daily stuff:
Succotash:
Channel energy= 9/9 (8d6 DC 22)
Dimensional hop= 160/160ft
Agile feet= 12/12
Speak with animals= 19/19
Hero's feast= 9 temp hp
Prayer= 12/16 rounds
Bear's endurance= 16/16 min (32 bonus HP)

Valerie:
Hero's feast= 13 temp hp
Airwalk
Longstrider
Prayer= 12/16 rounds
Bear's endurance= 16/16 min (22 bonus HP)

The Kezz'm (BrianW) - AC 39/20/34; HP 210/219; Rumpus AC 32/15/27 HP 95/95  d20+22=41 ; d20+28=43 ; d20+28=32 ; d20+28=32 ; d3+31=33 ; d6=5 ; d3+17=19 ; d6=4 ; d3+17=19 ; d6=4 ; d20+28=30 ; d20+23=29 ; d20+18=22 ; d3+17=18 ; d6=1 ; d3+17=19 ; d6=6 ; d3+17=20 ; d6=2 ; d10+6=12 ;
Tuesday November 24th, 2020 12:06:32 AM
SV Fort: 1d20 + 21 + 1 (Prayer) = 22.

"Hey, no one tries to make me uncrasimatic!" says Kezzem.

Kezzem closes for melee and full attacks with his daggers.

"I call this purple one Rumble!" (+1 Frost Returning Dagger)
Attack: 1d20 + 26 + 3 Smite + 1 Prayer - 2 (Two Weapon Fighting) = 43.
Damage: 1d3 + 2 + 28 Smite + 1 Prayer + 1d6 cold = 33 + 5 cold = 38.

Attack: 1d20 + 26 + 3 Smite + 1 Prayer - 2 (Two Weapon Fighting) = 32 - 5 = 27.
Damage: 1d3 + 2 + 14 Smite + 1 Prayer + 1d6 cold = 19 + 4 cold = 23.

Attack: 1d20 + 26 + 3 Smite + 1 Prayer - 2 (Two Weapon Fighting) = 32 - 10 = 22.
Damage: 1d3 + 2 + 14 Smite + 1 Prayer + 1d6 cold = 19 + 4 cold = 23.

"And I call this red one Frenzy!" (+1 Fire Returning Dagger)
Attack: 1d20 + 26 + 3 Smite + 1 Prayer - 2 (Two Weapon Fighting) = 30.
Damage: 1d3 + 2 + 14 Smite + 1 Prayer + 1d6 fire = 18 + 5 fire = 19.

Attack: 1d20 + 21 + 3 Smite + 1 Prayer - 2 (Two Weapon Fighting) = 29.
Damage: 1d3 + 2 + 14 Smite + 1 Prayer + 1d6 fire = 19 + 6 fire = 25.

Attack: 1d20 + 16 + 3 Smite + 1 Prayer - 2 (Two Weapon Fighting) = 22.
Damage: 1d3 + 2 + 14 Smite + 1 Prayer + 1d6 fire = 20 + 2 fire = 22.

If AC 30 hits, then he also gets two-weapon rend damage:
Damage: 1d10 + 6 = 12.

"Although admittedly sometimes I think Frenzy is the purple one and Rumble the red one," says Kezzem.

Bliss HP213+12/165 AC31 | Mookie HP76+8/76 AC41 | Cayzle  d20+32=35 ; d3+41=43 ; 4d6=12 ; d20+30=32 ; d20+30=45 ; d2+40=42 ; d2+40=41 ; d20+24=33 ; d4+9=12 ; 4d6=14 ;
Tuesday November 24th, 2020 1:28:16 PM
Bliss, clawing and biting at the ghost with all his might, and with the paladin's smite (+3, +14), rips into the incorporeal monster:

Bite hits AC 35 for 43 damage plus 12 (55 damage total)
Claws hit ACs 32 and 45 for 42 and 41 damage

Mookie dives down and then swoops back up again.

His flyby attack hits AC33 for 12 plus 14 holy undead bane damage (26 damage total)

DM Kathy 
Tuesday November 24th, 2020 2:27:58 PM
Murphy drops another lightning bolt on the ghost.

Succotash tries again, and once again fails to hit the ghost, who is all dexterity and deflection.

But it doesn't really matter, because by the time Kezzem and Bliss are done, there is nothing left of the dwiergeth ghost.

Of course, you saw it die before, and it came back again. You're not sure how much time you have.

Meanwhile, the ghost of Harmet still remains. "I thank you for your aid, strangers," he says. He looks around. "Usually, I die when it dies. This is...new. I'm not sure what happens next."

Succotash (Jeremy) AC 32/17/30 CMD 21 HP 147/147(115) Valerie AC 38/16/33 CMD 28 HP 131/131(109) Spells  d20+7=12 ;
Tuesday November 24th, 2020 5:36:26 PM
Succotash is perplexed. Usually he sees an undead and tries to kill the undead, but here is something out of the ordinary, a heroic undead, and the ghost of a paladin at that. He digs into his limited knowledge of religion, and realizes he may be able to help someone come up with an answer, but he pretty certain he won't be figuring it out himself (knowledge religion, aid another 12)
"Sir Harmet, I must confess this is a new situation for me. As a paladin, I'm sure you understand how odd it is to have an undead like yourself, do you have the slightest inclining as to how this happened?"

The Kezz'm (BrianW) - AC 39/20/34; HP 210/219; Rumpus AC 32/15/27 HP 95/95 
Tuesday November 24th, 2020 7:04:04 PM
"Maybe it won't come back until you die?" asks Kezzem. "Redie? Againdead? Not sure what the proper verbiage is there."

Pressi (Melvin) - AC 26 (31), HP 132, CMD 25; Harper AC 30 (35), HP 94, CMD 29 (34) 
Tuesday November 24th, 2020 8:15:15 PM

"Ok, so you do understand that you are dead," Pressi tells Harmet. "I've got to tell you, I wasn't sure if we were going to have that conversation.

"But lets start further towards the beginning. Do you remember how you died and what your last memories were. And did anything unusual happen. Relatively speaking, I mean."

Murphy Leafwin Pipewood(KimMc) Huge Air Elemental - AC 47/T-25/Fl-39 CMD 42 HP 174+12temp  d20+28=45 ; d20+28=46 ;
Wednesday November 25th, 2020 2:13:10 AM

Murphy races off to catch up with Clovis. "Hey, ranger, that large potato ghost is gone now. I know, not a pleasant creature. Let's head back. You all right?"

Sense motive: 45 [accidental double tap on Roll button]

DM Kathy 
Wednesday November 25th, 2020 2:43:26 PM
The battle over, Murphy heads off in search of Clovis. It's going to take you a little while to catch up.

Meanwhile, the group is talking to Harmet.

Succotash asks how this might have happened.

"I don't know." The ghostly form sheathes its ghostly sword. "I assume is has to do with the nature of this place, which is dark and foul, but that is only a guess."

Pressi asks the ghost to go over how he died. "The quest seemed cursed from the beginning," he says. "Clovis and Vitaly wandered off. Diara went on her own to scout. While she was gone, Elora and I encountered this--beast. Elora is a wizard; she was standing off at a distance, and a pack of wraiths attacked her. She seemed to be in distress, but I had my hands full with the creature. When I looked up again, I didn't see her. Then the beast and I killed each other. As we have done over and over again in the days since."

Kezzem suggests the dwiergeth will not return until Harmet is once again dead. "I don't know," he says. "All I know is that I want to move on, be judged by Gargul and go to my final rest. Yet I am trapped here." He looks down at his body. "You have helped me against the beast, but I wonder if I could ask another boon of you. Could you--could you give me a proper burial? Or a pyre. A pyre would do. Perhaps, if my remains are laid to rest, my spirit will be, too."

Hobie (Nick T) HP 189/181 AC 33 Touch 19 Flat 27 CMD 37 Hero Points 8 Prepared Spells 
Wednesday November 25th, 2020 3:09:39 PM
Hobie returns to the group after fleeing due to Panic

"Sorry about that, my will isn't so strong. It's almost as if I wasn't here for that battle."

In response to Harmet's request, Hobie is supportive. "Of course we will lay your body to rest. We have fire spells, we can burn you on a pyre."

The Kezz'm (BrianW) - AC 39/20/34; HP 210/219; Rumpus AC 32/15/27 HP 95/95 
Wednesday November 25th, 2020 5:08:19 PM
"Yes, a pyre," says Kezzem. "I was totlly going to suggest that. As a paladin lf Gargul I know such things."

Murphy Leafwin Pipewood(KimMc) Huge Air Elemental - AC 47/T-25/Fl-39 CMD 42 HP 174+12temp  d20+39=49 ;
Wednesday November 25th, 2020 5:13:35 PM

As Murphy in his air Elemental form can move 625' per round, likely he has caught up with and spotted Clovis by now, and has the conversation posted above. He adds, "Would you like for me to fly you back?"

Succotash (Jeremy) AC 32/17/30 CMD 21 HP 147/147(115) Valerie AC 38/16/33 CMD 28 HP 131/131(109) Spells  16d6=57 ;
Thursday November 26th, 2020 11:45:57 AM
Succotash says to his friends, "Stand back a bit!" and then casts Fire Storm on the remains of both Harmet and the dwiergeth. The flames do 57 damage, plus 4d6 damage per round until they are extinguished, which takes a full round action and a DC 20 reflex save

DM Kathy 
Thursday November 26th, 2020 4:37:07 PM
Hobie, somewhat chagrinned, returns to the group. Murphy is able to find and retrieve a shamefaced Clovis.

Harper, on the other hand, comes sauntering up to Pressi as if she had just been out for a stroll, and had totally meant to run like that. A girl needs her exercise, after all.

Kezzem agrees that a pyre might be a good solution, and Succotash wastes no time. He casts Fire Storm.

"Thank you my friends," Harmet says. Is it your imagination, or is the ghost starting to fade? "If there is anything remaining among my possessions that might do you some good, it is yours." Yes, the ghost is definitely fading as his body burns. "I only ask that you use it to fight evil in all its many forms. I think I'm going now."

Indeed, he is going, and a few seconds later, he is gone. Only small fires remain on the former battlefield.

Pressi (Melvin) - AC 26 (31), HP 132, CMD 25; Harper AC 30 (35), HP 94, CMD 29 (34) 
Thursday November 26th, 2020 8:52:11 PM
Pressi sighed as her pet joined her side.

Before Pressi could point out that they might need to bring the body back to their plane of existence, and she will admit to have taken a bit long in deciding to speak up, Succotash begins to burn the body.

So, instead she asks, as the ghost gives up the possessions, a simple question. "Someone did take some time to get those possessions, right? Some weapons or useful scrolls? Some token we can bring back to our benefactor? Maybe check if he had a way to get back? Things like that?"

If needed, she can cast Rose Control or protection from elements.



Bliss HP213+12/165 AC31 | Mookie HP76+8/76 AC41 | Cayzle 
Thursday November 26th, 2020 10:22:23 PM

Back in halfling form, Bliss waves.

"Farewell!" the warrior-witch calls to the ghost. "Thank you and rest easy!"

He bows his head.

Mookie hops over to peck at the loot and "help" Pressi.

Murphy Leafwin Pipewood(KimMc) Huge Air Elemental - AC 47/T-25/Fl-39 CMD 42 HP 174+12temp 
Friday November 27th, 2020 4:45:19 AM

Returning with Clovis to the group, Murphy is shocked to see Succotash fire storming the remains of the paladin without first talking over options with the rest of the group.

"Uh, what??" he asks as the ghostly Harmet fades from view. "What just happened?"

Hobie (Nick T) HP 189/181 AC 33 Touch 19 Flat 27 CMD 37 Hero Points 8 Prepared Spells 
Friday November 27th, 2020 4:59:55 AM
Hobie kneels with his head bowed as Harmet's body burns.

Maybe it would have been nice for the guy to offer up his gear earlier, but oh well, it was his gear to offer and he didn't think to do it until the body was already burning, no biggie.



Hobie (Nick T) HP 189/181 AC 33 Touch 19 Flat 27 CMD 37 Hero Points 8 Prepared Spells 
Friday November 27th, 2020 5:04:56 AM
ooc: I totally get that his gear might have been helpful, but like really, if a guy's soul is trapped as a ghost, and he asks us to burn his body so that he can move on, it would be pretty dang rude for us to be like "hold on, let us loot your corpse first and then we'll burn it." I might have taken a little more ceremony to the burning of the body, but I have no issue with what Sucker did.

Succotash (Jeremy) AC 32/17/30 CMD 21 HP 147/147(115) Valerie AC 38/16/33 CMD 28 HP 131/131(109) Spells 
Friday November 27th, 2020 6:04:15 AM
As the body is burning, Succotash says a prayer, and a few words. He didn't know the man but as a former paladin himself, he understood, a bit, of the kind of heroics Harmet must have preformed. When some of his friends seem to question his actions, he says, "I couldn't allow a hero to be trapped in that undead prison any longer. I saw a means to free him, and I did what needed doing. I have no regrets, and I'm glad Harmet is able to go see Lord Gargul now. Maybe Gargul will send him back to be with his friends again, or maybe he will send him to his well deserved rest, either way he is free, and I, for one, am happy for him, though I still mourn the passing of a hero."

DM Kathy 
Friday November 27th, 2020 3:08:26 PM
Some of you think that maybe firebombing the bodies before checking for treasure was a bit rash. Succotash, however, stands by his decision, reminding his friends that freeing the trapped spirit was the most important thing. Hobie backs him.

And, in fact, when the fires die down and the area has cooled a bit, you find that much of Harmet's gear is none the worse for wear. The +2 Full Plate isn't even singed. The +1 Holy longsword is still in pristine shape, though its sheath is a total loss. The +2 heavy wooden shield is scorched on the surface, but still good. The minor Ring of Energy Resistance (Fire) is, of course, unscathed. The Boots of Speed and the Belt of Physical Might +4 (Strength and Constitution) are damaged, but not enough to reduce their effectiveness.

However, the wand--whatever kind it was--is now a total loss. Only a blackened stick remains. Still, you have some prime loot, and the former owner's permission to use it. Of course, the armor and weapons are sized for the medium-sized Harmet, but some of the other things might be useful.

Murphy Leafwin Pipewood(KimMc) Huge Air Elemental - AC 47/T-25/Fl-39 CMD 42 HP 174+12temp 
Friday November 27th, 2020 6:06:23 PM

After taking a few moments to ask what happened, what the conversation was with the ghostly Harmet and various party members, Murphy says, "Succotash, my good friend. Perhaps no harm came as the result of your decision. But to proceed from a lack of careful consideration of the possible consequences of an action seems rash. You consulted with none of us. Harmet asked for a pyre. Usually a pyre is built up, generally by a few people, to lay to rest with ceremony and respect the remains of one who has passed. It usually takes more than five to ten seconds and does not lack warning or agreement.

"We were not in combat. From what I'm told, Harmet was solicitous, but not panicked. Your action seemed almost a panic reaction. Perhaps it was not - but what you did, you say, out of consideration, seems somewhat less than considerate. You might have given Clovis and Harmet the chance to say goodbye. As I both respect you and care for you, unless you wish it, I'll not go further on that, other than to ask - please, if you can take at least half a minute to talk such a thing over with the rest of us should a vaguely similar situation arise, that would be appreciated. I will argue on your behalf," he adds with a smile, "It was quite efficient."

And, unless Succotash wishes to discuss it, Murphy will keep his word on the matter.

The other body on the ground that was burned up - was it that of the dwiergeth?

Letting the others sort through the possessions, Murphy takes a few minutes to boil water for tea and coffee, which he offers to any who so desire. He lays out some additional food for people to partake of. "Clovis - Might you be up for telling a story about how you and Harmet met? Or something else of how you all got together as a party to go adventuring?" He sets out a board resting on a couple of chests for people to sit on, and a third box to rest the tea and snacks on.

Once people have had a chance to let settle after the rush that combat brings, he asks, "What next? Who is left to account for?" He knows, or at least thinks he does, but wants the others to have their say.

Murphy Leafwin Pipewood(KimMc) Halfling Druid - AC 47/T-25/Fl-39 CMD 42 HP 174+12temp 
Friday November 27th, 2020 6:12:13 PM

Oh, and I forgot to mention, Murphy changed back into his own form once he and Clovis had gotten back to the group.

The Kezz'm (BrianW) - AC 39/20/34; HP 210/219; Rumpus AC 32/15/27 HP 95/95 
Saturday November 28th, 2020 1:29:31 AM
"Hey, those are some nice boots!" says Kezzem. "The more attacks I get the more smiting I can do! I also wouldn't mind the ring, but it's not a big priority for me. I can dodge balls of fire pretty good, and even if I do get it, I can easily heal myself. Shame about the longsword though. The holy would be great on theme for a paladin like me, only I'm not great with hack-and-slash weapons like that. I preferer my weapons with more finesse!"

Pressi (Melvin) - AC 26 (31), HP 132, CMD 25; Harper AC 30 (35), HP 94, CMD 29 (34) 
Saturday November 28th, 2020 9:43:52 PM
Pressi shrugged at Succotash's words, not really used to being the one lectured on ethics. She mumbles something about keeping the eye on the prize and about the usefulness of the wand, but she's not really interested in litigating this further.

With that, her thoughts turn towards the last encounter... and of thoughts about the current place.

Bliss HP213+12/165 AC31 | Mookie HP76+8/76 AC41 | Cayzle 
Sunday November 29th, 2020 5:59:04 AM

"Don't worry about the items, Sir Succotash," says Bliss. "We're beginning to move past a need for items."

" ... ...!" Mookie gasps, speechless at such a thought.

Succotash (Jeremy) AC 32/17/30 CMD 21 HP 147/147(115) Valerie AC 38/16/33 CMD 28 HP 131/131(109) Spells 
Sunday November 29th, 2020 2:34:40 PM
"Thanks for understanding my reasoning guys, I will try to run things by you first in the future, I'm just so used to being a halfling of action, that I didn't stop to think about anyone else's thoughts on the issue. Well that is three out of the four heroes, we were sent to find, accounted for, let's see if we can find our wizard shall we?"

Hobie (Nick T) HP 189/181 AC 33 Touch 19 Flat 27 CMD 37 Hero Points 8 Prepared Spells 
Monday November 30th, 2020 2:43:18 PM
"Aye, lets push forward and find the wizard. And Kez, I can vouch for those boots, mine have been quite helpful. Beyond extra attacks, these guys can help you escape in a pinch"

DM Kathy 
Monday November 30th, 2020 3:29:27 PM
Murphy is a bit upset that Succotash acted without consulting the party. Succotash promises to communicate better from now on, but isn't exactly sorry for what he did. He is a halfling of action!

Bliss tells Succotash not to worry, and Pressi is ready to move on.

Kezzem expresses an interest in the Boots of Speed, and Hobie confirms that they are darned useful.

Murphy starts setting up to make tea and take a little breather, but might want to rethink that. A sudden roar announces the reappearance of the ghost dwiergeth. No ghost paladin appears, however, so you did succeed in laying Harmet to rest. The dwiergeth is another matter. Maybe you want to have tea somewhere else.

[You can fight the ghost dwiergeth again if you really want to, but you're not getting XP for it twice. :) ]

Succotash (Jeremy) AC 32/17/30 CMD 21 HP 147/147(115) Valerie AC 38/16/33 CMD 28 HP 131/131(109) Spells  d20+26=38 ;
Monday November 30th, 2020 5:43:46 PM
"As I was saying, shall we find our wizard?" Succotash says as he jumps into Valerie's saddle and begins airwalking in the direction that Harmet said he saw the wizard and the wraiths. Succotash has his searing light wand at the ready, and stays far enough off the ground to avoid the new arrival, but close enough to be able to see what is going on on the ground. (perception 38)

Pressi (Melvin) - AC 26 (31), HP 132, CMD 25; Harper AC 30 (35), HP 94, CMD 29 (34) 
Monday November 30th, 2020 8:59:14 PM
"I suppose that we can leave, if we must." Pressi says as she mounts Harper.

Once again, Harper bravely flees over the hills.



Murphy Leafwin Pipewood(KimMc) Halfling Druid - AC 47/T-25/Fl-39 CMD 42 HP 174+12temp  5d6=16 ; d20+16=36 ;
Tuesday December 1st, 2020 12:04:51 AM

Well, with the reappearance of the dwiergeth potato, Murphy initially thinks that he'd like to see what's inside the critter, and find out if he can disembowel it from within. Gory druid.

However, his companions going for discretion over other styles of valor, he tips his preparations back into the portable hole, which then goes in a belt pouch, wildshapes into a huge air elemental, says, "Clovis, let's fly!" and, should the halfling ranger agree, takes him up with him swiftly into the air.

Before getting out of range, he lays a departing lightning bolt down upon the enemy potato ghost (SR 36, Reflex Save 31), and joins his friends. If anyone else looks like they need a lift too, Murphy will provide the air taxi service.

Murphy Leafwin Pipewood(KimMc) Halfling Druid - AC 47/T-25/Fl-39 CMD 42 HP 174+12temp 
Tuesday December 1st, 2020 12:06:37 AM

And I trust no one is going to leave all the goodies behind. It's just that Murphy was busy with other things. Who takes the stuff with them?

The Kezz'm (BrianW) - AC 39/20/34; HP 210/219; Rumpus AC 32/15/27 HP 95/95 
Tuesday December 1st, 2020 12:39:15 AM
"Well, I am not one for much escaping, Hobie. My strategy tends to be dive face first and stab the thing with my daggers until one of us stops moving."

"Wait, I thought Press was our wizard, Murph. Or close-enough-to-a-wizard, right? Did you look in your hole? Maybe the wizard is in your hole...along with that one sock I'm missing."

Pressi (Melvin) - AC 26 (31), HP 132, CMD 25; Harper AC 30 (35), HP 94, CMD 29 (34) 
Tuesday December 1st, 2020 8:24:55 AM
Pressi will take some of the stuff. And since Mookie helped look through the message, I assume Bliss will take some of the stuff too.

"And what do you mean close enough to a wizard? No wizard would ever do a build like this!" Seeing everyone stare at her, "They're just so stuffy."

Hobie (Nick T) HP 189/181 AC 33 Touch 19 Flat 27 CMD 37 Hero Points 8 Prepared Spells 
Tuesday December 1st, 2020 11:44:26 AM
Homie will head off away from the ghost with the group. Let somebody else fight that thing.

Wraiths


DM Kathy 
Tuesday December 1st, 2020 4:22:06 PM
[Everybody take 43,500 XP for the previous scene.]

You decline to fight the ghost again.

The paladin's gear was already mostly gathered; it doesn't take a minute to grab it up and get out of there. Succotash rides away on Valerie; Pressi rides Harper.

You discuss the lack of a wizard, but to be honest, your group hasn't had a wizard in a long while. Tali was a sorcerer.

You leave the scene of the endless battle, and head deeper into the complex, where you believe you saw wraiths before. As you enter this area, you begin to see bodies lying on the ground. Most have long since decomposed into skeletons. A few look a bit newer, but none look new enough to be Elora, the last of Diara's companions.

Out of the corner of your eye, you start to see flittering in the darkness.

The Kezz'm (BrianW) - AC 39/20/34; HP 210/219; Rumpus AC 32/15/27 HP 95/95  d20+24=31 ;
Tuesday December 1st, 2020 6:10:42 PM
"I just mean that you cast spells and know stuff, Press," says Kezzem. "You know, like, a wizard casts spells and knows stuff."

Kezzem detects evil and keeps an eye out for wraiths.

Perception: 1d20 + 24 = 31.

Succotash (Jeremy) AC 32/17/30 CMD 21 HP 147/147(115) Valerie AC 38/16/33 CMD 28 HP 131/131(109) Spells  d20+26=36 ; d20+16=30 ; 10d6=47 ; 10d8=41 ;
Tuesday December 1st, 2020 8:10:16 PM
Succotash has Valerie stay about 50ft off the ground, and with his wand of searing light at the ready, he looks to see if he can see what is flitting about. (Perception 36) if he sees a wraith, or other undead, and it comes within 200ft of him, he will fire his wand, hitting touch AC 30 for 47 damage, 41 if it is vulnerable to light.

Bliss HP213+12/165 AC31 | Mookie HP76+8/76 AC41 | Cayzle  d20+26=37 ;
Wednesday December 2nd, 2020 12:00:03 AM
Bliss tries to figure out the flitting things.

Perception 37

Murphy Leafwin Pipewood(KimMc) Halfling Druid - AC 47/T-25/Fl-39 CMD 42 HP 174+12temp  d20+40=55 ;
Wednesday December 2nd, 2020 3:58:35 AM

[Congrats on Level 17, crew! And thanks, Kathy :-)]

Perhaps Murphy is able to discern the source of the flittering in the darkness? [Perception: 55]

He counts the moments since the start of the last combat and considers what spells and buffs may yet be active [how many rounds/minutes since then?]

DM Kathy 
Wednesday December 2nd, 2020 3:19:37 PM
The flittering motion is concerning, especially since you know (or strongly believe) there are wraiths here. You start looking for them, and Succotash readies a nice surprise for them.

Sure enough, Bliss, Murphy, and Kezzem soon see a couple of large wraiths gliding toward the party. Succotash fires his wand, hitting and damaging one of them--but they are still coming.

And the map. They gray bars are crumbling walls. The gray cloudy things are piles of rubble, which are difficult terrain. The wraiths are gliding about 5 feet off the ground.

It has been six minutes since you began your encounter with the ghosts.

Pressi (Melvin) - AC 26 (31), HP 132, CMD 25; Harper AC 30 (35), HP 94, CMD 29 (34) 
Wednesday December 2nd, 2020 9:52:28 PM
(OOC: Sorry, with the kid being way off sleep schedule, I forgot to post last night - and forgot I needed to post today.)

"Wait," she replies to Kezzem. "Wouldn't that mean YOU were a wizard by definition. I mean, don't you cast spells and kn... never mind, then."

Pressi recasts spectral hand. (If I'm allowed to squeeze in a tuesday action, this is it. Otherwise, she casts it quickened.)

Before she can do anything else, she casts death ward on Kezzem.

The Kezz'm (BrianW) - AC 39/20/34; HP 210/219; Rumpus AC 32/15/27 HP 95/95 
Wednesday December 2nd, 2020 11:42:42 PM
"I know nothing, Pressi Snow," says Kezzem.

He moves forward and summons Rumpus to his side.

"Hey guys," calls out Kezzem. "I guess it's a wraith to see which one of the two of you gets stabbed first!"

Bliss HP213+12/165 AC31 | Mookie HP76+8/76 AC41 | Cayzle 
Thursday December 3rd, 2020 12:16:52 AM

Bliss taps himself with the death ward wand, then moves up to another friend to tap them next round.

"Who's next?"

Murphy Leafwin Pipewood(KimMc) Halfling Druid - AC 47/T-25/Fl-39 CMD 42 HP 183+12temp  6d6=21 ; 17d6=51 ; d20+17=24 ;
Thursday December 3rd, 2020 4:38:53 AM

Murphy drops off Clovis back by the wall. He casts sunburst (see yellow sphere), doing 51 hp damage to each wraith. SR 24, Reflex DC 34 for 1/2. If either wraith fails its Reflex save, it is destroyed.

Murphy Leafwin Pipewood(KimMc) Halfling Druid - AC 47/T-25/Fl-39 CMD 42 HP 183+12temp 
Thursday December 3rd, 2020 4:46:32 AM
Oops - supplementary info. Damage is 102 (and auto death, and blindness for what that's worth) if SR and DC fail. 51 if SR fails and DC save is made. The ultraviolet light generated by the spell deals damage to fungi, mold, oozes, and slimes just as if they were undead creatures. Sunburst dispels any darkness spells of lower than 9th level within its area.

Succotash (Jeremy) AC 32/17/30 CMD 21 HP 147/147(115) Valerie AC 38/16/33 CMD 28 HP 131/131(109) Spells  d20+16=17 ;
Thursday December 3rd, 2020 6:42:48 AM
Staying 50 ft off the ground, Succotash fires another blast of searing light from his wand, aiming at the one he just hit, however, Valerie must have reared back a bit in fear, because he misses by a mile (Natural 1)

Hobie (Nick T) HP 189/181 AC 33 Touch 19 Flat 27 CMD 37 Hero Points 8 Prepared Spells  d4+1=4 ; d4+1=4 ; d4+1=2 ; d4+1=2 ; d4+1=2 ;
Thursday December 3rd, 2020 8:34:54 AM
Hearing his group grumbling about their lack of a wizard, Hobie will opt not to shoot arrows.

"I may spend most of my time at the archery range, but don't you guys forget I've spent plenty of time studying the arcane! I'M A WIZARD!!!!"

He flies well overhead of the Wraiths and casts Magic Missile. He sends 3 missiles at whichever wraith seems to have taken less damage so far, and two at the other.

Missile Damage 4 + 4 + 2 = 10

Missile Damage 2 + 2 = 4

DM Kathy  d20+8=13 ; d20+8=16 ;
Thursday December 3rd, 2020 3:56:18 PM
Pressi casts Spectral Hand, then casts Death Ward on Kezzem (no Quicken needed).

Kezzem summons Rumpus.

Bliss uses the wand to cast Death Ward on himself.

Murphy casts Sunburst. These things do not seem to have Spell Resistance. They also don't have especially good Reflex saves. Both are destroyed.

Succotash and Hobie hold their actions for now, because there are no opponents at the moment. [You can still use those rolls as readied actions on the next opponents, if you like.]

That changes, however. Two more large wraiths approach the party. In addition, a large group of smaller wraiths begins swarming over one of the walls.

And the map. I know that one thing looks like a swarm of bats, but it's really wraiths. No, really.

Succotash (Jeremy) AC 32/17/30 CMD 21 HP 147/147(115) Valerie AC 38/16/33 CMD 28 HP 131/131(109) Spells  d20+16=31 ; 10d6=32 ; 10d8=31 ; d20+20=25 ;
Thursday December 3rd, 2020 6:23:16 PM
"Seriously, a swarm of wraiths?", Succotash says as he fires his wand into the swarm hitting touch AC 31, causing 32 damage. (SR 25)

Pressi (Melvin) - AC 26 (31), HP 132, CMD 25; Harper AC 30 (35), HP 94, CMD 29 (34) 
Thursday December 3rd, 2020 9:08:00 PM
With an outstretched arm, Pressi focuses on one of the wraiths not under attack, searching through the ley lines for a soul to consume.

And with a snap, she casts Bouncing Command Undead upon the creature (Will DC 20, if fail she tries another wraith). "Creature of the night, you will respond to my voice. Stop right where you are."

If anyone stares, "You mean I'm close enough because of things like that."

Murphy Leafwin Pipewood(KimMc) Halfling Druid - AC 47/T-25/Fl-39 CMD 42 HP 183+12temp  17d6=60 ;
Friday December 4th, 2020 3:44:03 AM

As the sunburst spell has an 80' radius (160' diameter), might our DM take into account that perhaps a fair number of gathering wraiths to the right off-map were sunburnt to death?

Murphy casts sunbeam and shoots a beam of bright light to tear through the swarm of lesser wraiths. If any wraith makes its Reflex saving throw vs DC 33, it takes half of the 60 hp damage. If the save fails, they are destroyed. If the beam is 5' in diameter (the spell does not specify) (illustrated by long yellow rectangle), then roughly half of the members of the swarm are likely affected.

After this action, he ascends to an altitude of ~80' up in the air.

Bliss HP213+12/165 AC31 | Mookie HP76+8/76 AC41 | Cayzle 
Friday December 4th, 2020 6:27:11 AM
Since nobody speaks up, Bliss casts Death Ward on Mookie, and Mookie drinks a protective philter (Shield I think?)

DM Kathy  d20+12=27 ; d20+16=21 ; 6d8=20 ; d6=1 ; d20+15=24 ; d20+15=20 ; 8d8=41 ; d8=5 ; 8d8=38 ; d8=3 ;
Friday December 4th, 2020 3:13:49 PM
Succotash fires his wand at the approaching wraith horde, hitting and doing some damage.

Pressi attempts to command one of the wraiths, but its will is too strong. [Your DM is not familiar with the Bouncing Command Undead spell. Is each attempt a standard action, or do you get to attempt until it succeeds?]

Murphy casts a Sunbeam at the wraith horde, destroying several of them.

Bliss casts Death Ward on Mookie.

The wraith horde swarms over Kezzem and Rumpus. Kezzem is protected by Death Ward, but Rumpus takes 20 points of negative energy damage and one point of Constitution damage.

One of the larger wraiths approaches Pressi. Its touch attack hits. Pressi takes 41 points of negative energy damage and 5 points of Constitution drain, unless she got a Death Ward I didn't see, or unless that Bouncing Command thing allows multiple attempts on a single turn.

The other large wraith approaches Succotash. It also hits, and does 38 points of negative energy damage, plus 3 points of Constitution drain, unless Succotash got a Death Ward I didn't see.

Murphy Leafwin Pipewood(KimMc) Halfling Druid - AC 47/T-25/Fl-39 CMD 42 HP 183+12temp  17d6=54 ; d20+40=51 ;
Friday December 4th, 2020 3:33:45 PM
Murphy flies down to an area on the map to the lower left of Pressi so as to line up the two wraiths, and lets go with another sunbeam. If the wraiths make a Reflex save vs DC 34, they take half of 54 hp damage. If they fail their save, they are fading wisps of vapor of burnt toast. After being close to ground level, he ascends to a height of 25 feet. [Murphy has fly-by-attack feat allowing partial move, attack, remaining move.]
=========
Perception: 51

Murphy Leafwin Pipewood(KimMc) Halfling Druid - AC 47/T-25/Fl-39 CMD 42 HP 183+12temp  5d6=17 ;
Friday December 4th, 2020 3:44:15 PM

And, if allowed, Murphy uses a hero point to lay down one of his already-stored-up call lightning storm vertical 5' diameter bolts, causing 17 hp electrical damage, reflex save DC 31 for half damage. Kezzem and Rumpus do not deserve the life-draining effects of these evil beings.

[Sorry not to include this in main post - had planned to do so, got a phone call which I thought would pull me away from keyboard for a while.]

Bliss HP213+12/165 AC31 | Mookie HP76+8/76 AC41 | Cayzle  d20+23=28 ; d4+9=12 ; 4d6=12 ;
Friday December 4th, 2020 9:34:10 PM

Bliss taps Sir Succotash with the wand.

Deathwarded Mookie attacks a wraith, hitting AC28 for 12+12 damage.

Pressi (Melvin) - AC 26 (31), HP 132, CMD 25; Harper AC 30 (35), HP 94, CMD 29 (34) 
Friday December 4th, 2020 9:48:32 PM
(OOC: Bouncing spell is a metamagic feat. It's normally an APG feat but its one that witches can pick, see bloodwitch class ability 8, meta-witch. SImply put, Pressi redirects the spell upon failure to another target as a swift action, and that wraith has to also make a will save. Success or fail, the spell then ends. It raises the spell level by 1.

You'll want to look it up. Cayzle also has it on Bliss' sheet.)

Murphy Leafwin Pipewood(KimMc) Halfling Druid - AC 47/T-25/Fl-39 CMD 42 HP 183+12temp 
Saturday December 5th, 2020 9:34:42 PM

Bouncing Spell Feat

The Kezz'm (BrianW) - AC 39/20/34; HP 210/219; Rumpus AC 32/15/27 HP 75/95 - 12 (1 Con damage)  d20+18=34 ; d20+18=36 ; d20+13=33 ; d3+20=22 ; d3+20=22 ; d3+20=21 ; 2d6=5 ; 2d6=4 ; 2d6=6 ; 6d6=20 ;
Sunday December 6th, 2020 1:13:41 AM
Rumpus 5 ft. steps and full attacks the wraith with his new Tears (since Kezzem found out they don't work on daggers). Rumpus will also smite evil.

Attack: 1d20 + 18 = 34.
Damage: 1d3 + 6 + 2 Bane + 12 Smite Evil plus 2d6 Bane = 22 plus 5 = 27.

Attack: 1d20 + 18 = 36.
Damage: 1d3 + 6 + 2 Bane + 12 Smite Evil plus 2d6 Bane = 22 plus 4 = 26.

Attack: 1d20 + 13 = 33.
Damage: 1d3 + 6 + 2 Bane + 12 Smite Evil plus 2d6 Bane = 21 plus = 6.

"Can I sab a swarm of wraiths? I don't think I can stab a swarm of wraiths. Let's try something else."

Kezzem burns two lay on hands to channel positive energy. Both wraiths and the wraith swarm are in range.

Damage: 6d6 = 20.
SV Will DC 20 for half.

Kezzem will then move into melee range with the other wraith.

Bliss HP213+12/165 AC31 | Mookie HP76+8/76 AC41 | Cayzle 
Sunday December 6th, 2020 11:55:43 PM
Bliss taps Pressi with the Death Ward wand.

Succotash (Jeremy) AC 32/17/30 CMD 21 HP 77/115(115) Valerie AC 38/16/33 CMD 28 HP 131/131(109) Spells  8d6=31 ; 8d6=30 ; d20+24=35 ; d20+24=41 ; d20+24=43 ; d20+24=38 ; d20+24=33 ; 2d6+13=21 ; 2d6+13=15 ; d4+13=15 ; d4+13=16 ; d8+13=15 ; d6=4 ; d6=1 ; d6=1 ; d6=5 ; d6=5 ; d6=5 ; d6=6 ; d6=1 ; d6=6 ; d6=4 ;
Monday December 7th, 2020 6:50:36 AM
Succotash thanks his luck stars for his bear's endurance spell, though the hit from the wraith hurt something fierce. he feels Bliss tap him with the his wand and ins now a little more comfortable dealing with these life draining undead. He channels positive energy to attack the wraiths, and based on his current location, he should effect all of them, inflicting 31 damage. He then digs deep within himself (Hero Point) and finds the means to force out another channel inflicting 30 damage DC 22 will save for half damage on both channels.

Seeing her master take a hit from the wraith, Valerie will go full round attack on the large wraith, unless it is already dead, in which case she will attack the swarm. She has permanent magic fang on all her natural attacks

left talon hits AC 35 for 21+4 shock and 1 frost
right talon hits AC 41 for 15+ 1 shock and 5 frost
left claw hits AC 43 for 15+ 5 shock and 5 frost
right claw hits AC 38 for 16+ 6 shock and 1 frost
bite hits AC 33 for 15+ 6 shock and 4 frost

Pressi (Melvin) - AC 26 (31), HP 11+hero feast/132, CMD 25; Harper AC 30 (35), HP 94, CMD 29 (34)  d20+22=35 ;
Monday December 7th, 2020 3:00:39 PM
(OOC: apologies, Ill try to do some bookkeeping tonight.)

Pressi realizes she misjudged these guy's speed and will, and decides she needs some better choices.

"Ok, I get it, I was out of line. If you move away from me now, I won't do THIS...."

Pressi casts heal on the wraith for a straight 150 hp. (Will DC 23 for half damage, Concentration check passed)

Harper then precedes to push Pressi out of the way of the wraith.



DM Kathy  d20+8=20 ; d20+8=16 ; d20+16=22 ; d20+26=44 ; d20+26=42 ; d20+26=37 ;
Monday December 7th, 2020 3:15:07 PM
Murphy flies down and lines up the wraiths. He casts another Sunbeam. Both wraiths fail their saves and are destroyed. However, Murphy cannot move again. You cast a spell; you didn't make an attack.

Making a heroic effort, Murphy also calls down lightning on the horde of wraiths.

Bliss taps Succotash with the Death Ward wand.

Kezzem finds that his single wraith targets have already been destroyed by Murphy's spell. Deciding he can't stab the horde, Kezzem instead channels positive energy, doing some damage. The horde makes its save, however. It seems to have some kind of resistance to channeled energy.

Succotash also channels, and also finds the wraiths surprisingly resistant to it. He is able to do some damage, however.

Pressi finds that her target is gone, destroyed by Murphy's spell. The horde of wraiths is all that remains.

The horde swarms over Bliss, but cannot harm him due to the Death Ward.

And the map.

Hobie (Nick T) HP 189/181 AC 33 Touch 19 Flat 27 CMD 37 Hero Points 8 Prepared Spells  9d6=39 ;
Monday December 7th, 2020 3:22:20 PM
Hobie grabs a scroll from his handy haversack and shouts at his friend Kezzem "I AM A WIZARD!!!!!!!"

From the scroll he casts fireball on the wraith swarm
39 Fire Damage

Reflex DC 17 for half

Succotash (Jeremy) AC 32/17/30 CMD 21 HP 109/115(115) Valerie AC 38/16/33 CMD 28 HP 131/131(109) Spells  d8=4 ; d8=5 ; d8=4 ; d8=3 ;
Monday December 7th, 2020 6:52:57 PM
Succotash has Valerie take a 5ft step back as he casts mass cure critical wounds healing everyone within 30 feet of him 32 HP, and causing 32 damage to the undead swarm DC 27 will save for half.

The Kezz'm (BrianW) - AC 39/20/34; HP 210/219; Rumpus AC 32/15/27 HP 75/95 - 12 (1 Con damage)  6d6=18 ;
Monday December 7th, 2020 6:53:21 PM
"You're a wizard, Hobie."

Kezzem, lacking any better attacks, channels again at the wraith swarm.

Damage: 6d6 = 18.
SV Will DC 20 for half.

"I'm the cleric?"

Pressi (Melvin) - AC 26 (31), HP 43+hero feast/132, CMD 25; Harper AC 30 (35), HP 94, CMD 29 (34)  2d6=8 ; 2d6=11 ;
Monday December 7th, 2020 9:54:22 PM
If the wraith swarm is still up, Pressi slips the rod of thunder and lightning in her off hand, as a move action.

"And that leaves me and my true role in this party."

Pressi casts Thunderclap (Fortitude DC 16 partial, 2d6 points (8) of sonic damage, target deafened for 2d6 (11) rounds).

"I'm, as always, the freakin' bard."


Murphy Leafwin Pipewood(KimMc) Halfling Druid - AC 47/T-25/Fl-39 CMD 42 HP 183+12temp  17d6=64 ; d20+40=52 ;
Tuesday December 8th, 2020 3:49:05 AM

Murphy flies over and upward. Using flyby attack ("When flying, the creature can take a move action and another standard action at any point during the move.") his loosing of another sunbeam from the spell he cast earlier takes place during the moment when he is at an altitude of 55' and his move action then continues (the same singular move action) with an upward arc to 80' altitude. The emitted light beamed diagonally downward will perhaps free into oblivion some of the miserable souls now in wraith form should they fail a Reflex save DC 33. If they make their save, they take half of the 64 hp damage.

[DM Kathy - please see email.]
==========
Perception: 52 - any other wraith-like things approaching from afar? Or other critters?

Hobie (Nick T) HP 189/181 AC 33 Touch 19 Flat 27 CMD 37 Hero Points 8 Prepared Spells  5d4+5=17 ;
Tuesday December 8th, 2020 12:22:35 PM
"Hey Kez, check out this one, it's a classic wizard spell, you migiht know it."

Hobie casts Magic Missile at the swarm

17 damage

DM Kathy  d20+16=31 ; d20+30=38 ; d20+30=36 ; d20+20=21 ; d20+16=30 ;
Tuesday December 8th, 2020 3:39:42 PM
Hobie, who is totally a wizard, launched a Fireball at the horde last round. The horde made its save, and takes 19 points of fire damage.

Succotash casts a spell to heal his companions and hopefully hurt the horde, but they make their Will save.

Kezzem channels again, doing more damage.

Pressi casts Thunderclap, and the horde rolls a 1 on its save, so they take all the damage and are deaf now.

Murphy casts another Sunbeam. The horde comes close, but cannot withstand the spell. They are obliterated.

Hobie, the wizard, can save his Magic Missiles. The battle is over.

The Kezz'm (BrianW) - AC 39/20/34; HP 210/219; Rumpus AC 32/15/27 HP 95/95 - 12 (1 Con damage)  d8+1=7 ; d8+1=3 ; d8+1=3 ; d8+1=3 ; d8+1=7 ;
Tuesday December 8th, 2020 3:47:48 PM
Kezzem breaks out his wand of cure light wounds to treat Rumpus.

Healing: 1d8 + 1 = 7.
Healing: 1d8 + 1 = 3.
Healing: 1d8 + 1 = 3.
Healing: 1d8 + 1 = 3.
Healing: 1d8 + 1 = 7.

"Anyone else need a hit from the happy stick?" asks Kezzem.

Murphy Leafwin Pipewood(KimMc) Halfling Druid - AC 47/T-25/Fl-39 CMD 42 HP 183+12temp 
Tuesday December 8th, 2020 6:02:22 PM

"Hobie, you are a wizard," Murphy agrees. "Kezzem, paladin, you are a cleric? Do all of our paladins become clerics? Not that there's anything wrong with that. And Pressi - so, you're the group's bard, eh? We can always use a good bard. Those wraiths certainly winced at your thunderclap."

"Do you remember Tandem? Talcum? The cleric with the potted plant? Tendel! He joined up just as I went on an errand into the Culverwood to solicit aid from some druids - who declined to help us against the giants. Tendel left perhaps a week after I returned to the party, but he did have a nice fern. In the very early days we had Eral Sunstrider, a cleric of Domi. He stayed with us until he chose to help shepherd a befriended troll - the troll's name was 'Stupid' - to a safer path, and thence to set off on other adventures of his own.

"And of course you all know Alouryn Buttercup Bumblebottom, cleric of Flower, and wife of Hazel - since they help watch over the Sanctuary of Humble's Sword. And she makes fine pancakes. She showed both a bit of timidity, as well as great bravery in her time as a fairly peaceful adventurer with us, and kept many of us alive through her curative powers. My childhood friend Hazel - a ranger - got the better end of that matrimonial deal," he says with a grin.

"So, we've had some clerics. I am SO grateful that you, Succotash, took up the clerical mantel."

After that brief recounting of Humble's Sword members who wore the cloth, he returns his attention to the matter at hand. "So, we still need to find Elora Helethar, the elfin wizard. Is that the right way to go?" he asks the group, gesturing roughly in the direction they have been traveling. "Are all healed?"

Pressi (Melvin) - AC 26 (31), HP 99/132, CMD 25; Harper AC 30 (35), HP 94, CMD 29 (34)  4d12+15=49 ; d12=8 ; d20+25=44 ;
Tuesday December 8th, 2020 8:29:07 PM
At Murphy's remarks, "Eh, anyone will tell you bard is just a state of mind."

Preferring to be prepared for anything, Pressi casts cure critical upon herself for 48+8=56 HP. She figured that should be good for now, and waved off CLW for a bit. She didn't think anyone else needed healing.

More detect magics and looking around through the area (Perception 44).

Succotash (Jeremy) AC 32/17/30 CMD 21 HP 109/115(115) Valerie AC 38/16/33 CMD 28 HP 131/131(109) Spells 
Tuesday December 8th, 2020 8:56:45 PM
"Let's find this wizard chick quick, I'm really beginning to hate this place! By the way does anyone else need any healing?"

The Kezz'm (BrianW) - AC 39/20/34; HP 210/219; Rumpus AC 32/15/27 HP 95/95 - 12 (1 Con damage) 
Wednesday December 9th, 2020 12:50:26 AM
"Hobie's right over there, Succo" says Kezzem, pointing at Hobie the wizard. "I think you might need your eyes checked."

Bliss HP213+12/165 AC31 | Mookie HP76+8/76 AC41 | Cayzle 
Wednesday December 9th, 2020 6:48:07 AM
"Good work everybody!" says Bliss.

"And I helped!" adds Mookie.

DM Kathy 
Wednesday December 9th, 2020 3:06:53 PM
In the aftermath of battle, Kezzem heals his loyal mount, while Pressi heals herself. Bliss congratulates the group on a job well done.

Murphy reminds you that you are still looking for the last of Diara's companions. Succotash agrees that you should look for the "wizard chick."

Kezzem points out that Hobie is a wizard, but he is definitely not a chick, so it seems you need to keep looking.

And keep looking you do, moving through the complex where the wraiths seem to have taken over. You find more victims' remains, mostly skeletons. You know that anyone killed by wraiths later rises as a wraith, so you're pretty sure you just sent all these souls to the next life.

You eventually find a more recent corpse, and you can tell it is all that remains of Elora Helethar, elf wizard. Her gear is still intact--and in fact, many of the bodies you passed also had gear that might be worth a second look.

The Kezz'm (BrianW) - AC 39/20/34; HP 210/219; Rumpus AC 32/15/27 HP 95/95 - 12 (1 Con damage) 
Wednesday December 9th, 2020 4:33:55 PM
"Ah, you meant girl wizard!" says Kezzem. "I though we were looking for a magical chicken."

"Maybe we should check out the gear of those bodies we have passed too."

Succotash (Jeremy) AC 32/17/30 CMD 21 HP 109/115(115) Valerie AC 38/16/33 CMD 28 HP 131/131(109) Spells 
Wednesday December 9th, 2020 8:35:09 PM
Succotash is sad that they weren't able to save the final companion, and he offers up a prayer to the gods on her behalf. Turning to Kezzem he says, "I suppose you right lets see what's to be seen."

Pressi (Melvin) - AC 26 (31), HP 99/132, CMD 25; Harper AC 30 (35), HP 94, CMD 29 (34) 
Wednesday December 9th, 2020 9:01:03 PM
Pressi continued to detect magic, search for signs of life, etc.

"Ok, so with that done, does anyone have any idea of how we are getting out? Because I'm pretty sure this female wizard was our ride home."

Murphy Leafwin Pipewood(KimMc) Halfling Druid - AC 47/T-25/Fl-39 CMD 42 HP 183+12temp  d20+40=55 ;
Wednesday December 9th, 2020 9:16:42 PM

"Aaah," Murphy says in mournful tone before the body of Elora Helethar. He kneels beside her. "Lord Gargul, have mercy on her soul," he prays, along with Succotash who also offers intercession.

After any who wish, including Clovis Bylee, take a moment, he then rises and steps back. If others wish to take off her possessions, he waits for that. Then he says, "Let us wrap her body as we did for Vitaly." He switches back to his own halfling body, extracts blankets, canvas and rope. Then with help of others, they shroud the lady elf, and lower her into the portable hole.

Less reticent will he be to assist in taking from the remains of others their possessions of enduring worth. As to whether they choose to enshroud others, that depends to an extent on the number remaining. If few, perhaps he has a bit of room left in the hole for conveyance (maybe 3-4). If many, then... perhaps not.

He will detect magic as they go along. And also keep his eye out for any other wraiths, or other creatures who move about.
==============
Perception: 55

Murphy Leafwin Pipewood(KimMc) Halfling Druid - AC 47/T-25/Fl-39 CMD 42 HP 183+12temp  d20+40=55 ;
Wednesday December 9th, 2020 9:16:42 PM

"Aaah," Murphy says in mournful tone before the body of Elora Helethar. He kneels beside her. "Lord Gargul, have mercy on her soul," he prays, along with Succotash who also offers intercession.

After any who wish, including Clovis Bylee, take a moment, he then rises and steps back. If others wish to take off her possessions, he waits for that. Then he says, "Let us wrap her body as we did for Vitaly." He switches back to his own halfling body, extracts blankets, canvas and rope. Then with help of others, they shroud the lady elf, and lower her into the portable hole.

Less reticent will he be to assist in taking from the remains of others their possessions of enduring worth. As to whether they choose to enshroud others, that depends to an extent on the number remaining. If few, perhaps he has a bit of room left in the hole for conveyance (maybe 3-4). If many, then... perhaps not.

He will detect magic as they go along. And also keep his eye out for any other wraiths, or other creatures who move about.
==============
Perception: 55

Hobie (Nick T) HP 189/181 AC 33 Touch 19 Flat 27 CMD 37 Hero Points 8 Prepared Spells 
Thursday December 10th, 2020 1:37:44 AM
Hobie knows the most important things to a Wizard, and the things she might want returned to her loved ones are her spellbook and her bonded item. He takes her spellbook, and detects magic over her looking for something like a ring, or amulet, or even a weapon as Hobie uses that might be her bonded item.

Once he finds these, or at least the spellbook if she was a wizard with a familiar instead of a bonded item, he will quietly start reading through her spellbook while the rest of the group handles her body and other possessions.

Hobie (Nick T) HP 189/181 AC 33 Touch 19 Flat 27 CMD 37 Hero Points 8 Prepared Spells 
Thursday December 10th, 2020 1:37:44 AM
Hobie knows the most important things to a Wizard, and the things she might want returned to her loved ones are her spellbook and her bonded item. He takes her spellbook, and detects magic over her looking for something like a ring, or amulet, or even a weapon as Hobie uses that might be her bonded item.

Once he finds these, or at least the spellbook if she was a wizard with a familiar instead of a bonded item, he will quietly start reading through her spellbook while the rest of the group handles her body and other possessions.

DM Kathy 
Thursday December 10th, 2020 4:17:18 PM
You begin sorting through the gear. Elora had a Headband of Vast Intelligence +6, a Cloak of Resistance +4, a Ring of Protection +3, a Wand of Fly (32 charges remaining), and two scrolls of Plane Shift. Hobie is also able to locate her spellbook, and a very nice-looking amulet. Hobie knows that, after so much time, a bonded item would no longer detect as magic, but it was probably this amulet.

Meanwhile, on various other bodies, you find a Ring of Blinking, Wings of Flying, a Ring of Invisibility, a +5 buckler, a Staff of Earth and Stone, an Ioun Stone (pale green prism), and a +3 scimitar (small size).

There are more than a dozen bodies here. You know that any creature killed by wraiths rises as a wraith shortly thereafter. You're pretty sure you just laid all those restless spirits to rest.

Hobie (Nick T) HP 189/181 AC 33 Touch 19 Flat 27 CMD 37 Hero Points 8 Prepared Spells 
Thursday December 10th, 2020 8:59:14 PM
Hobie places the amulet and spell book in his haversack to return to her companion. He does have his eyes on the wand of Fly as well.

“If no one iobjects, I’d like to take this wand. I always reserve two or three spell slots for Fly, and this wand could allow me a bit more versatility. Plus I can make more of us fly as well.”



Pressi (Melvin) - AC 26 (31), HP 99/132, CMD 25; Harper AC 30 (35), HP 94, CMD 29 (34) 
Thursday December 10th, 2020 9:23:45 PM
Pressi nods at Hobie. She's personally more interested in the cloak or ring anyway (though she'd have to give up one of the rods she picked up to do so).

She also feels a little better about the plane shift scrolls, figuring she might have a rather good shot of using one.

Succotash (Jeremy) AC 32/17/30 CMD 21 HP 109/115(115) Valerie AC 38/16/33 CMD 28 HP 131/131(109) Spells 
Thursday December 10th, 2020 9:55:34 PM
OOC.. Succotash still has three scrolls of plane shift, plenty to get everyone back. As far as I know, that has always been the plan, since he is the only one who can do it without any chance of failure.

Succotash is fine with Hobie having the wand as well, though he could use it, just having it in the party is fine with him. Succotash looks at the loot and says, " wow, that a nice haul, though I wish the original owners were still alive to use them."


Bliss HP213+12/165 AC31 | Mookie HP76+8/76 AC41 | Cayzle 
Thursday December 10th, 2020 11:50:56 PM

"It sure is too bad that so many died, but at least we got one survivor."

"Let's get home now, right?"

The Kezz'm (BrianW) - AC 39/20/34; HP 210/219; Rumpus AC 32/15/27 HP 95/95 - 12 (1 Con damage) 
Friday December 11th, 2020 1:51:04 AM
"That cloak's a bit better than what I'm currently wrating," says Kezzem. "I'm pretty resilient though so if somebody else could use it go ahead."

Kezzem currently has a +3 Cloak.



Murphy Leafwin Pipewood(KimMc) Halfling Druid - AC 47/T-25/Fl-39 CMD 42 HP 183+12temp 
Friday December 11th, 2020 2:08:50 AM

"This beautiful green prism, ah, my color." Murphy looks over what has been gathered from the bodies of those souls so recently sent to their rest. "This staff could serve us well in many circumstances. I make no claim, but should desire the ioun stone. If another prefers, I will yield."

"Say, Clovis, she was your companion on this journey. Is there aught of hers you would claim? Do you know her kin?"

As said before, if there are no more than four additional bodies, then Murphy can barely find room to return the corpses to the Wold in his extradimensional device. If more, then someone else will need to figure how.

"I have an additional thought, friends. We know there is much that is wicked and bent on this plane. I wish I knew how it was called. Might we seek out the source of what makes this place what it is? Shall we bring clerics to hallow this unhallowed ground? Might we find a way to rid the place forever - by exorcism or some other means - of that terrible ghostly potato monster? The work we were sent for is near done, I believe, as soon as Succotash exercises his plan to return us. But is that all the work there is for us to do?"

Pressi (Melvin) - AC 26 (31), HP 99/132, CMD 25; Harper AC 30 (35), HP 94, CMD 29 (34) 
Friday December 11th, 2020 2:01:07 PM
(I figure Pressi can keep one rod or staff at 85K. I'm thinking alertness or necromancy over any of the others. The ring of blinking might be a good choice for Pressi, too. More so than more AC.)

Rest


DM Kathy 
Friday December 11th, 2020 3:34:55 PM
[Everybody take 60,600 XP for the previous scene.]

You gather the treasure, and begin discussing how it might be distributed. Murphy, to his regret, finds that there are too many bodies to be conveyed in his portable hole. You could try to lay them to rest here, or you could just leave them, confident that their spirits are now at rest.

Clovis makes no claim on any of Elora's belongings. "She didn't often speak of her home or her kin," he says. "I gather they didn't approve of her becoming an adventurer. I wouldn't know where to find them."

When you are ready to depart, Succotash uses his scrolls to shift the entire party back to the Prime Material Plane. And, just like that, you are back in Humble's Ford. The morning's rain has stopped, and pale spring sunlight is breaking through the clouds. It seems very bright after the gloom of The Ruins.

Kim posts list of magic items acquired in The Ruins last encounter 
Saturday December 12th, 2020 12:46:58 AM
Humble's Magic Items Recovered 20201210

- Pale Green Prism Ioun Stone - 30,000
+1 competence bonus on attack rolls, saves, skill checks, and ability checks.

- Staff of Earth and Stone - 85,800
This staff is topped with a fist-sized emerald that gleams with smoldering power. It allows the use of the following spells: Move earth (1 charge) - Passwall (1 charge)

- Ring of Blinking - 27,000
On command, this ring makes the wearer blink, as the blink spell.

- Ring of Invisibility - 20,000
By activating this simple silver ring, the wearer can benefit from invisibility, as the spell.

- Ring of Protection +3 - 18,000
This ring offers continual magical protection in the form of a deflection bonus of +3 to AC

- Wings of Flying - 27,000
A pair of these wings might appear to be nothing more than a plain cloak of old, black cloth, or they could be as elegant as a long cape of blue feathers. When the wearer speaks the command word, the cloak turns into a pair of bat or bird wings that empower her to fly with a speed of 60 feet (average maneuverability), also granting a +5 competence bonus on Fly skill checks.

- +5 Buckler - 25,155

- +3 Scimitar (small size) - 18,315

- Headband of Vast Intelligence +6 - 36,000

- Cloak of Resistance +4 - 16,000

- Wand of Fly (32 charges remaining) - 7,200 (11,250 when fully charged @50)

- Two scrolls of Plane Shift (7th wizard?)

Murphy Leafwin Pipewood(KimMc) Halfling Druid - AC 47/T-25/Fl-39 CMD 42 HP 183+12temp 
Saturday December 12th, 2020 1:20:08 AM

"We made it," Murphy says once they all have made it back safely. "And Clovis made it. What a terrible realm is that pocket plane. No one commented on my notion of seeking to cleanse it. I won't push it for now. It's just good to be back home." The group of course seek out Diara, bringing the remains of those they were able to bring. He asks his friend to lay out to her what they encountered, if she wants to hear it. He outlines the story for her, and sees if others want to add perspective or other details. He asks Succotash if he wants to organize a burial ceremony and memorial service, asking the two surviving members of the ill-fated group for their wishes.

Once he finds time, he writes out the full account to add to his journals of the adventuring group. Copies are made and distributed as per regular practice, including a copy to the WLA branch in Angel Springs.

"How about a break for a while, friends?" He asks. "Of course, fresh crises can always arise, to which we may be called. Yet there are things to be done in our community. Most of us will likely want to visit the WLA for training updates. Perhaps one or more of you have plans for research, or getting archery class recruits going, or prepping a magic item, or taking advantage of the shrines on our grounds, or organizing and training coven members, or working with a growing cadre of followers, or ... having a wedding?" he concludes, looking to Pressi.

Bliss HP213+12/165 AC31 | Mookie HP76+8/76 AC41 | Cayzle 
Saturday December 12th, 2020 9:56:46 AM

Bliss is just happy to be home. "That place was a nightmare!" he says. "Mister Murphy, I know that heroes might want to do more, but for what? So that a dead place can become a destroyed place? Even if we killed every bad thing, could such a realm ever become a place of light and life?"

Mookie, on the other hand, keeps a keen jackdaw eye on the loot. "Can I fly wearing a cloak?" he asks.

Hobie (Nick T) HP 189/181 AC 33 Touch 19 Flat 27 CMD 37 Hero Points 8 Prepared Spells 
Sunday December 13th, 2020 8:15:33 PM
"I would quite like that headband of Intelligence +6, I've been rocking a +2 and I'd like the upgrade"

The Kezz'm (BrianW) - AC 39/20/34; HP 210/219; Rumpus AC 32/15/27 HP 95/95 - 12 (1 Con damage) 
Sunday December 13th, 2020 8:35:38 PM
Don't forget that we also have the following:

"And, in fact, when the fires die down and the area has cooled a bit, you find that much of Harmet's gear is none the worse for wear. The +2 Full Plate isn't even singed. The +1 Holy longsword is still in pristine shape, though its sheath is a total loss. The +2 heavy wooden shield is scorched on the surface, but still good. The minor Ring of Energy Resistance (Fire) is, of course, unscathed. The Boots of Speed and the Belt of Physical Might +4 (Strength and Constitution) are damaged, but not enough to reduce their effectiveness."

Kezzem is most interested in the boots of speed, pale green ioun stone, cloak of resistance +4, ring of fire resistance, and ring of invisibility, in that order. The ring of blink is tempting for a tank, but I don't think the trade off for damage output is worth it. No point being a tank if you can't do enough damage to get he enemy's attention.

"Hey, I got these undead bane tear's things, but it turns out I can't use them," says Kezzem. "I'll keep three for Rumpus, but I've got three more that aren't doing me any good. Any of you mighty polymorphing rangers need some, or should I just return them on the next trip to the Catacombs?"


Succotash (Jeremy) AC 32/17/30 CMD 21 HP 109/115(115) Valerie AC 38/16/33 CMD 28 HP 131/131(109) Spells 
Monday December 14th, 2020 6:29:46 AM
OOC... We also found a staff of fire, a staff of necromancy, a rod of alertness, a +3 greatsword, and a medium sized suit of +1 mithral full plate of speed with improved energy resistance: acid

There are a few item's that interest the cleric, but, in his mind, Succotash's priority is to upgrade his headband, and get a rod of quicken spell, so he resists the lure of the loot. He is happy to head up a funeral for the fallen, if the survivors so chose, but if others are going to be heading to Angel Springs for training, He will pop over to Merrydale to spend some time with his folks. He was happy that his relationship with his father was showing signs of reconciliation, last time he visited, and hopes to further improve their relationship.

Pressi (Melvin) - AC 26 (31), HP 99/132, CMD 25; Harper AC 30 (35), HP 94, CMD 29 (34) 
Monday December 14th, 2020 10:20:22 AM
"A wedding would absolutely be a nice change of pace from our last adventure," Pressi replied. "Even when taking our families into account."

Her face falls when hearing about recruitment. She still has yet to finalize that cohort. And figure out how much she can "spend" on loot. (I'm going to work on her next sheet tonight.) She wonders how Bliss is doing on his recruitment.



DM Kathy 
Monday December 14th, 2020 3:33:56 PM
Murphy again mentions his suggestion to try to return and cleanse The Ruins, but Bliss isn't sure it would be worthwhile.

The rest of the group is mostly concerned with the treasure, and you discuss it as you make your way to the Sanctuary.

Diara is still there, curled up at Quercus's roots. She stands when she sees you approach, and smiles when she sees Clovis. "Clovis! You made it! Oh, I'm so glad!" she exclaims.

Clovis actually smiles a little in return. He steps up as if to embrace her, but she steps back a little. "No," she says. "Sorry, but I--I....I'm sorry."

"No, I get it," Clovis replies.

Diara looks at you. "And...and the others? Did you find them? What happened?"

Bliss HP213+12/165 AC31 | Mookie HP76+8/76 AC41 | Cayzle 
Monday December 14th, 2020 4:07:41 PM

Bliss tells the story as gently as he can, after a pre-emptive "Hush Mookie" via telepathy.

When he is done, he offers condolences. "I'm sorry we could not bring back more of your friends, miss. Please accept our condolences."

He offers her first choice of any of the magic gear if she would like a remembrance of her friends.

Succotash (Jeremy) AC 32/17/30 CMD 21 HP 109/115(115) Valerie AC 38/16/33 CMD 28 HP 131/131(109) Spells 
Monday December 14th, 2020 6:48:41 PM
Succotash nods his agreement with Bliss, when he offers mementos to the survivors than adds, "If you need a cleric for whatever reason, whether it be for grief council, or funeral duties I would be glad to be of service. Of course if you know of someone else who you would rather use, I understand and take no offense, just know that my heart goes out to you, and I am available."

Pressi (Melvin) - AC 26 (31), HP 99/132, CMD 25; Harper AC 30 (35), HP 94, CMD 29 (34) 
Monday December 14th, 2020 8:33:14 PM
Pressi lets the others speak before offering her own condolences, and helps with returning trinkets and bodies.

"Did you have any further information on where this pocket dimension came from. Who told you about it, perhaps?"

Murphy Leafwin Pipewood(KimMc) Halfling Druid - AC 47/T-25/Fl-39 CMD 42 HP 183+12temp  d20+30=45 ;
Tuesday December 15th, 2020 12:06:03 AM

Murphy listens to all as they discuss the journey to the pocket plane, and partially successful rescue. "I am glad you found some rest at the root of Quercus," Murphy tells Diara as he looks up at the oaken treant. He places his hand on the bark of the one who promised to guard the sanctuary, and to let the children play here. He turns, and looks at the ground several feet to one side, his face in profile to the one who asked their help for her friends.

"The paladin was intrepid, even in death. The cleric had fallen, and the elf wizard. Harmet Ells. Vitaly Cev. Elora Helethar. We are, I am, so sad for such loss. For a while, I wondered whether we would return ourselves. I thank heaven above that you two made it back, and we, too. Let us know, Clovis and Diara, if there is anything else we might do for you."
============
Sense motive: 45 [trying to gauge how Elora and Clovis are taking all of this]

Murphy Leafwin Pipewood(KimMc) Halfling Druid - AC 47/T-25/Fl-39 CMD 42 HP 183+12temp 
Tuesday December 15th, 2020 12:29:03 AM

"Really? We can go ahead and - " Murphy stops talking, and kisses Pressi full on the lips [look, this is not the same time as talking to Diara and Clovis, all right?]. "Y-y-y-y-yyYESSS!"

DM Kathy 
Tuesday December 15th, 2020 3:25:12 PM
Bliss tells Diara the fates of the rest of her adventuring party. She looks somber. Bliss offers her first choice of any gear as remembrance.

"Thank you," she says, "but I--I don't know what I would do with it. I'd rather you all kept the gear. I have no other way to reward you."

Succotash offers condolences, and his services as a cleric. "Thank you," Diara says. "That's very kind."

Pressi also offers her condolences, and asks about the pocket plane. "I think I told you everything I know about it," Diara replies. "Elora did the research; she could have told you more, I think. Had she lived."

Murphy speaks of each companion by name, and urges Diara and Clovis to tell him if they need anything.

"I don't think I need anything else," Diara says. She looks pale. Was she always that pale?

"Clovis. I'm so glad you made it out. Truly." She smiles wistfully. "Part of me wishes that I'd been the one to survive, but I am glad for you."

Wait, what?

"I'm guessing you didn't find my body," she says to your group. "Or you would have had questions for me right away. I hid so well, you see, but it didn't save me."

She isn't pale; she is transparent. And fading. You can see Quercus through her.

"Please keep all that you found," she continues. "Thank you, thank you so much for making that horrible trip. For putting my companions to rest. For saving Clovis." She is fading more and more. "I think I'm ready to rest now. Clovis, enjoy your life. We will meet again."

The ghost of Diara Fayst fades away altogether. At the very last, you think you hear a very faint "goodbye."

The Kezz'm (BrianW) - AC 39/20/34; HP 210/219; Rumpus AC 32/15/27 HP 95/95 - 12 (1 Con damage) 
Tuesday December 15th, 2020 6:51:06 PM
Kezzem will Detect Evil.

"She was a ghost the whole time? I mean, I knew you was a ghost. Paladin of Gargul and all that. Of course I knew she was a ghost the whole time."

"Man, I have got to start paying more attention in those University of the Phoenix paladin classes."

Succotash (Jeremy) AC 32/17/30 CMD 22 HP 109/125 Valerie AC 37/15/32 CMD 32 HP 127/127 Spells 
Tuesday December 15th, 2020 9:05:00 PM
Succotash stares with his mouth gaped wide open. He never expected to see what he just saw, and is left speechless. When he final is able to process the situation, he says, "Two goodly ghosts in one day, and here I thought they were all evil. I guess I have a lot to learn still." Turning to Clovis he asks, "Would you like us to go back and search for Diara's body? Had we known that it was her ghost that gave us this mission, we would have done our best to seek it out."

Pressi (Melvin) - AC 26 (31), HP 99/132, CMD 25; Harper AC 30 (35), HP 94, CMD 29 (34) 
Tuesday December 15th, 2020 9:58:38 PM
Pressi can't help but feel a little sorry for Clovis. She and Murphy running around can't be easy on him.

Particularly as Diara begins to fade.

Harper just stares, agog.

After a few minutes, Pressi speaks up. "Wait, but she... I mean... Gaah, we have GOT to start screening the people that hire us. Got to...."

She pauses as Kezzem and Succotash speak. "I'm sorry, the idea that the undead is evil surprises you? What do you think I've been doing all this time?"

It is, of course, a moment of defensive nature. Pressi, who thought she could just reach out and control a giant wraith, doesn't really want to contemplate the nature of death. But more on that another time....

For now, Pressi instead turns to the present matter at hand. "You know, we don't actually have any proof that we ever got away from the zygomind and are being digested as we speak. So... wedding plans...."

DM Kathy 
Wednesday December 16th, 2020 3:21:48 PM
As Diara's spirit departs, Kezzem states confidently that of course he knew she was a ghost all along. He detects for evil, but finds none.

Succotash asks Clovis if he would like for you to go back and find Diara's body, but the halfling ranger shakes his head. "She didn't seem too concerned about it," he says. "And I'd hate for something to happen to you. Best leave that place alone."

Pressi says you need to screen your employers better, and points out the cheerful possibility that you are still being digested by the zygomind. And if you are, you know, you won't have to worry about it for much longer.

But for now, it would seem your mission has been accomplished, and you have the pile of loot to show for it. Let the divvying up begin!

Hobie (Nick T) HP 189/181 AC 33 Touch 19 Flat 27 CMD 37 Hero Points 8 Prepared Spells 
Wednesday December 16th, 2020 5:39:53 PM
Homie bows as the spirit departs. When she’s gone, Hobie asks Clovis

Good friend, I’m sorry for your loss. Might you like a distraction in the form of an archery contest? I think the town would enjoy the show, and there is a young archer in Humble’s Ford whose progress I’d like to check on.

Pressi (Melvin) - AC 26 (31), HP 99/132, CMD 25; Harper AC 30 (35), HP 94, CMD 29 (34) 
Wednesday December 16th, 2020 9:22:31 PM
Life continues for now, as Pressi begins plans for the wedding in earnest, and begins sending invitations for the coven.

(Kim and I need to discuss the basics but I think they finally tie the knot during the slowdown, something to do while we wait for the next mission. I also don't expect Pressi's relatives there, as of yet.)

This is in between her own training (and leveling to 17), her own setups of a coven, and of trying to finally decide what loot to use.



Bliss HP213+12/165 AC31 | Mookie HP76+8/76 AC41 | Cayzle 
Wednesday December 16th, 2020 11:57:06 PM
Bliss is still picking his jaw off the floor. Really!

Mookie is looking the loot over, putting on the cape of resistance, and trying to fly. It seems to interfere with his wings, though.

The Kezz'm (BrianW) - AC 39/20/34; HP 210/219; Rumpus AC 32/15/27 HP 95/95 - 12 (1 Con damage) 
Thursday December 17th, 2020 12:14:15 AM
"Silly bird," says Kezzem. "Cloaks are for kids...and halflings!"

Murphy Leafwin Pipewood(KimMc) Halfling Druid - AC 47/T-25/Fl-39 CMD 42 HP 183+12temp 
Thursday December 17th, 2020 3:56:06 AM

Sorry, folks - multiple stacked work assignments last few days... here is my catch-up post

"You've shown you have quite the will, Diara Fayst, to solicit a rescue even after your own hope of rescue was... beyond hope? Farewell, may Gargul regard what you have done for your friends, fair lady." Murphy already knows not all ghosts are evil, so is not astonished to find such a good spirit as this - though she concealed well her condition. The towhead merely smiles at the banter regarding ghosts and evil and who knew or did not know what and when.

"Capital idea! Clovis, we have an archery range just a couple hundred feet from where we are standing. Let's go show him, eh, Hobbie?" This Sanctuary of Humble's Sword map can be referenced to take a bird's-eye view of the area. Quercus, the treant, is in the lower right (SE) corner, and the archery range goes along the inside wall on the left (W) side of the map. "Just don't hit Dderwen off to the right of the targets. He gets pretty prickly for an oak when people miss the target and sink a shaft in his bark. There is a fairly tightly-woven double net there that catches most arrows, but some get through. He can pick up and walk out the north gate for a while if it looks like people's shots are coming his way too often."

He points to the West Gate. "The West gate is the only one that travels beneath the surface. A bell rings when someone is passing through, so out of politeness, we refrain from loosing arrows until they arrive intact and turn towards the main part of the grounds here."

As he walks with Clovis, Murphy says, "We have plenty of room here, friend. If you would like to stay for a while, we would love to have you. And you can't miss Alouryn's pancakes, and Hazel is getting very good at making breakfast sausages. He is a ranger, too. He and I grew up together, off and on. Oh, and we have a few pools you can dip your toes in, and one deep enough to swim in up on top of that rocky mound some call Rock Castle. Meanwhile, are you willing to work with Hobbie on this archery exposition?"

Murphy Leafwin Pipewood(KimMc) Halfling Druid - AC 47/T-25/Fl-39 CMD 42 HP 183+12temp 
Thursday December 17th, 2020 4:19:00 AM

As treasure division is discussed, Murphy says, "Kezzem, I realized I was more humble sounding about one thing than I feel at this time. I'd like the green ioun stone. In part, because it's green," he smiles. "The party will benefit from the staff of earth and stone. For the staff, I'm fine if someone else wants to keep it, or I carry it with me, but I don't want it sold, as I believe it will be of strategic and material benefit to us down the road.

"The other items you have mentioned are fine with me for you to have, or others to negotiate about. For me, personally, the ioun stone, please. For the party, whoever carries it, the staff."

Murphy Leafwin Pipewood(KimMc) Halfling Druid - AC 47/T-25/Fl-39 CMD 42 HP 183+12temp 
Thursday December 17th, 2020 5:40:19 AM

Wedding Prep:
"Pressi - Alouryn loves wedding preparations. You should see what she came up with for her and Hazel's matrimonial festivities. Also, though they left us on acrimonious terms, we might do well to see if Shel and Alleah of many last names might be willing to help out. Would love to mend fences with them. And Shel and I grew up knowing each other... Maybe Talia can join in somehow. I mean Tali. There are a bunch of guys who have been with the group, too. Let's invite them.

"What do you think of holding the ceremony at the Wind Spire? Or, where else might be good?" [I'll remand the bulk of planning to email, but thought at least to roll the ball forward a bit.]

Other things:
- Training at WLA in Angel Springs
- Reaching out to the druids there. Over a year ago Murphy was contacted regarding the possibility of joining the Circle of the Oak Might it be time for that to go through? See DM Carl's post of Wednesday July 10th, 2019 3:58:12 PM (In the archives in [link href="https://www.woldiangames.com//archives/index.php?game=Humbles&start=1562342887&end=1563203356"]this section[/i]. Just for the record, though he still sometimes plants three oak trees in some sort of triangle near each other, he no longer sticks to the equilateral triangle with the trees 35' from one another. He mixes it up. He had made a trail from just north of Humble's Ford to the Glimstone Mines at the base of the mountains of The Scab of the equilaterally-planted oaks a bit before the druidic visitation. His purpose at the time was he could then catch all three acorns in the same plant growth spell. A lot of the oaks, though, likely got trampled down by the invading giants.
- Catching up on news within Humble's Ford. He loves the people there (and tolerates Pirnook Deeppockets).
- Visit with McGregor Headwise and Halfred Humble. The former he has tried to visit with umpteen times. Might it be a challenge to portray this paragon of wisdom and sage advice? Murphy wants to learn of him. And Halfred Humble knows the town's history so well.
- Spend time with family, and perhaps reach out again towards Pressi's kin?
- Oh, oh! Followers. Murphy has Leadership feat (courtesy of WLA training). His brother, Kendry, a bard, has agreed to serve as cohort. So, recruitment of followers to ensue. Kendry comes up with an oaken badge to be awarded notable followers.

Bliss HP213+12/165 AC31 | Mookie HP76+8/76 AC41 | Cayzle 
Thursday December 17th, 2020 3:43:28 PM

After thinking things over, Bliss just shrugs. "There are more things in this Wold of ours, dear Mookie, than are dreamt of in your philosophy," he says.

"MY philosophy!? I don't need no stinkin' philosophy!" caws the crow. "Stop your mooning and look over this loot, Kid!"

"Okay, well, first thing, stop playing with that darn cloak. It doesn't fit and you can't have it."

"Fine!" says Mookie. "But I still claim it! I can get them to fix it at the Catacombs!"

"Good idea," says Bliss.

[OOC: Bliss puts in a claim for one of the +4 cloaks]

"Miss Pressi, did you decide on the Blink Ring for sure? If not, I'll try it. But it is yours if you prefer."

[OOC: Bliss is second in line for the Blink Ring after Pressi]

"I think that's it for me," Bliss says.

Mookie snuggles his +4 cloak

Succotash (Jeremy) AC 32/17/30 CMD 22 HP 109/125 Valerie AC 37/15/32 CMD 32 HP 127/127 Spells 
Thursday December 17th, 2020 4:07:01 PM
Succotash would rather have the cash, as he is wanting to upgrade his headband and get a quicken rod, which he feels would be of most use to himself and the party.

DM Kathy 
Thursday December 17th, 2020 5:15:46 PM
Hobie asks Clovis about an archery contest. "Sure," Clovis says. "I mean, no, not really. Well, maybe. I don't know. I--I don't know about anything. It's a bit too much."

Murphy is keen on the archery idea, and invites Clovis to stay at the Sanctuary for a while. The halfling ranger accepts with thanks.

The rest of you are mostly deciding on what to do with the treasure. That is, apart from Murphy and Pressi, who are planning their wedding.

Murphy Leafwin Pipewood(KimMc) Halfling Druid - AC 47/T-25/Fl-39 CMD 42 HP 183+12temp 
Thursday December 17th, 2020 6:26:17 PM

A place for Clovis
Murphy wastes no time but finds a spare room within Rock Castle up on the second level. It's on a corner with one north looking window and the other on the west side. The room is of a natural shape, the only flat surface being the floor, mostly covered over with some sort of padding and a carpet. A couple of colored pen-and-in sketches are on one wall of members of Humble's Sword from about five years back walking along a trail, and another one from a later time with a more current cast of characters shooting the rapids in an undermountain river. There is a human-sized bed and two halfling-sized beds (one with a firm mattress and pillow, the other softer on both counts) a quilted goose down blanket in a duvet for each bed, an armoire with slippers, a few towels and sheets, and room for clothing, a chest of drawers, a plumbed sink (copper piping) - he shows him how to turn the water on and off with a spigot. "Water is fed from a container of pure fresh water stored under the roof. We pump it up from a natural spring every day or so." Two ceramic cups are there. There is also a halfling-sized desk and chair, with paper, pens and ink in the drawers. In the bottom drawer are a few plates, bowls, table utensils. Last, there is couch of a human scale. Three or four humans could sit side-by-side, and perhaps twice as many halflings. It's all fairly cozy, but not cramped.

He introduces Hazel and Alouryn to Clovis, lets them know he is a ranger - and surely Hazel will warm up quickly to him on that count alone. Cleric of Flower Alouryn was born to hospitality. So long as folks are kind to her friends.

Memorial Service:
"Let us set a day to remember those who fell in the Ruin. Which sounds better: Tomorrow, or two days hence?" he asks all members of the Sword, and also sees what sits fair with Clovis. He leans whichever direction Clovis leans on the matter. Whatever day and time is decided upon, he asks that all members of the group agree to be there, to stand with the sole survivor.

Treasure Division:
As earlier indicated, the green ioun stone is the sole individual treasure claim Murphy makes, with the staff of earth and stone sure to be kept with someone in the party, whether himself or another. "We just don't sell that one, all right?"

Gathering Followers:
Murphy works out some principles, goals and guidelines for any who would look to him for leadership. Kindness, justice, mercy, truth, love, right living, good domesticity, and willingness to venture in one's life for these ideals in support of community form core elements of what he plans to put forth. And fun. Gotta have fun. And work - that's how things get done.

Wedding Plans:
Happening between the engaged couple at the moment, will get back to you on that!

Pressi (Melvin) - AC 26 (31), HP 99/132, CMD 25; Harper AC 30 (35), HP 94, CMD 29 (34) 
Thursday December 17th, 2020 9:11:06 PM
Trying to get some work in before the weekend, so no wedding plan start yet.

She hasn't really decided much on treasure, and is rather surprised to hear that Murphy thinks "earth and stone" is a better idea than some of the other rods (like necromancy or alertness or really necromancy). She figures that she can get get a single rod plus the ring of protection +3 or ring of invisibility, so she lets the ring of blink pass to Bliss. (I really need to work out my accounting again.)

(The staff of fire is also tempting, and cheap. Pressi makes a first claim to it, figuring she can make the numbers work.)

She avoids the archery stuff, not really being a range attacker. In ways they would appreciate.

Hobie (Nick T) HP 189/181 AC 33 Touch 19 Flat 27 CMD 37 Hero Points 8 Prepared Spells 
Thursday December 17th, 2020 10:44:56 PM
Hobie will go to his constable cousin and talk to him about all of the events of their previous trip.

The Kezz'm (BrianW) - AC 39/20/34; HP 210/219; Rumpus AC 32/15/27 HP 95/95 - 12 (1 Con damage) 
Friday December 18th, 2020 3:31:17 AM
"Let's do two days hence," suggests Kezzem. "And not just because I like saying 'hence.'"

Succotash (Jeremy) AC 32/17/30 CMD 22 HP 109/125 Valerie AC 37/15/32 CMD 32 HP 127/127 Spells 
Friday December 18th, 2020 6:11:25 AM
Succotash loves the idea of a formal ceremony for the lost, though he doesn't care which day it takes place. He believes that a funeral should be a celebration of life, though obviously there is the sorrow that accompanies the loss of love ones. He is glad that Clovis has decided to stay at the Sanctuary, and secretly hopes that the ranger decides to take up permanent residency there, as having a experienced adventurer there to defend the home front while the Swords are away seems a good thing, and he's a fellow halfling to boot. The cleric has little interest in participating in the archery competition, but he is more then happy to watch to see the excellent marksmanship of two skilled archers. When Murphy and Pressi start mentioning the fact that they are making wedding plans, He quickly chimes in, "I think I know a cleric who might be available."

DM Kathy 
Friday December 18th, 2020 3:11:31 PM
Murphy shows Clovis to a room in the Sanctuary, and proposes a memorial for those who fell in The Ruins. Clovis's only preference for timing is that the memorial not be held the same day as the archery contest.

Succotash endorses the plan for a memorial, and offers his services for Pressi and Murphy's wedding.

Hobie goes to his cousin the constable to tell all about this latest adventure.

And, of course, the treasure talk continues.

[OOC: Everyone take 17,500 XP for this scene. I'll leave this as the current scene until after the slowdown. I will assume that the memorial service and the archery contest both take place. If somebody would like to describe them, that's fine. If Kim and Melvin want to describe the wedding, that's fine, too.]

Murphy Leafwin Pipewood(KimMc) Halfling Druid - AC 47/T-25/Fl-39 CMD 42 HP 183+12temp 
Sunday December 20th, 2020 5:11:14 AM
"Very well, then. Two days hence we will remember and honor those who ventured greatness," Murphy proposes. "Let it begin at two hours before noon, as the sun moves from mid-morning to fully bright, recalling that light brought down fell wights, and freed souls from entrapment. Shall the archery contest be on the third day from now? And the wedding next week."

Succotash (Jeremy) AC 32/17/30 CMD 22 HP 109/125 Valerie AC 37/15/32 CMD 32 HP 127/127 Spells 
Monday December 21st, 2020 6:29:53 AM
Succotash is fine with Murphy's itinerary, and says so. At the ceremony for the fallen, the Cleric says a prayer addressed to all the gods, but especially Gargul. He asks them to take into account the heroic deeds of the fallen, that they my be allowed entrance into the lands of rest. He also prays for all the others they found in the demi-plane, and asks that those of a heroic nature be honored, and if any were there for nefarious reasons, that they receive their just deserves. Succotash concludes by asking Clovis, the only survivor of their ill fated mission, if he had anything he wanted to say to honor his fallen comrades.

Pressi (Melvin) - AC 26 (31), HP 99/132, CMD 25; Harper AC 30 (35), HP 94, CMD 29 (34) 
Monday December 21st, 2020 8:53:00 PM
With the coven filling the dancing pig, it wasn't long before prestidigitations... and soon, filled wedding invitations, began to fill the room.

And it wasn't long before every member of Humble's Sword, past and present, received an invitation.

Murphy Leafwin Pipewood(KimMc) Halfling Druid - AC 47/T-25/Fl-39 CMD 42 HP 183+12temp 
Tuesday December 22nd, 2020 3:26:55 AM

Memorial Service
Before the service, Murphy provides shovels and joins in digging graves six feet deep, placing them just beyond 300 feet north of the north wall of the Sanctuary (unless someone suggests a better place). For each grave is a headstone with name, race, and approximate date of passing he had Foreman George's stonecutter fashion. He asks ahead of time for any additional brief words or symbols Clovis may wish to have added to each monument, and surely the stonecutter will oblige.

Murphy's older brother Kendry, recently agreeing to be cohort as the druid begins to gather followers, is a bard. He quietly plays harp music as people gather to remember those who are being buried or simply remembered. Based upon what he was told of each person, he composes a two- to four-line verse for each to be remembered by.

Shoot 'em up!
For the archery contest, short targets and long targets were set on the archery range. Under Hobie's direction, Murphy also will help set up whatever other targets and shooting ranges on the back side that the arcane archer may desire. The druid does not practice archery, but has seen enough of it, and will offer to help score, as well as tend to any wounds that bow and arrow mishaps may incur. Dderwen decides the day of the archery contest that he will join his friend Quercus on the opposite side of the Sanctuary grounds. He knows where a stand of well-suited yew trees are about two miles north, should someone wish to engage in quality bow-making.

Wedding preps
Murph engages his family in helping him and Pressi bring their engagement to fruition by preparing for the wedding itself next week. His mother and a few aunts and their friends are well-versed in the various ingredients involved in planning a wedding, and this likely will not be a small affair as weddings go.

He and Pressi seem pleased that Succotash has offered his services as cleric for the wedding. "We are honored, Succotash, at your offer, and accept, with one caveat. Are you open to being one of two clerics to officiate the ceremony? We also would like to involve high priest Sarabella LoveSong of the Temple of Flower to work with you to weave the clerical elements of the service, if you would be amenable to such."

Something New?
As your character spends a bit of time at the Sanctuary if you roll a perception of 18 Highlight to display spoiler: {Does it look like Alouryn, Hazel's wife and joint caretaker of the Sanctuary, might be helping to grow a family?}

Murphy Leafwin Pipewood(KimMc) Halfling Druid, bridegroom 
Tuesday December 22nd, 2020 3:29:06 AM

By the way, the 'he' who knows where the yew trees are is Murphy, not Dderwen.

Interim assistant ADM Kim 
Tuesday December 22nd, 2020 3:46:29 AM
[Kathy gave me - and you guys - the okay to going ahead and running some of the NPCs during the break, as I have in years past been called upon to fill in here and there. So, if you keep in mind what already is established for existing NPCs in the Woldipedia, and/or have followers or such to play with, dip your toes in.]

Rosco Hornblower
"So, tell me, cousin, about this journey of yours to the pocket plane," the town's constable says as he offers coffee, cheese, coldcuts and ryebread as Hobie sits down to tell that tale. He listens attentively as he carves a sigil on a small wooden shield, pausing after a while to bring out a pipe and good tobacco, and to offer Hobie a choice of three new pipes to choose from, should he wish to join in a smoke. A few minutes in Westen, a deputy, comes in, says, "I took care of the fence dispute, Rosco." The constable nods his head. "Take a seat, and listen to Hobie's story." He gives a quick summary of what Hobie said so far, then gestures with his pipe for the archer to continue.

Westen sits on a hardbacked chair and fashions a sandwich of rye, goat cheese and slices of salami, and a slather of mustard. He waits a spell before beginning to eat it, pours some now lukewarm coffee in a cup, and tosses in a question or two - especially about the zygo-whatsit plant monster and how it works.

Kim / Murphy 
Tuesday December 22nd, 2020 5:23:52 PM

OOC: Melvin: 3 emails...

Interim assistant ADM Kim 
Wednesday December 23rd, 2020 8:24:52 PM

Archery Contest, Introduction
As word gets out about the upcoming archery contest, inquiries find their way to the adventurers. Quite a few talk about archery with shortbows, compound bows, and other bow types. Will there be something for the younger set - age groups? What about crossbows? Slings? Dagger throwing? What kinds of prizes? An elf clad in green with a full quiver and a longbow over his shoulder arrives at the compound and asks whether the event is to be limited to halflings. Seeing him, Kade, who cares for the land north of the wall, asks if an elf is going to participate, if a dwarf can, too. By the afternoon following the memorial service contestants, some with families and friends, begin to show up. A few BadApples and a couple of Hairfeet toughs ask about entering. A lieutenant from Hovel's militia brings a few contestants, and a few groups from Angel Springs show up the morning of the event. The answers to these questions will fall to the organizers - the party, and Hobie as the head of the contest.

Along with the long archery range along the west side, a short-course archery range is also set up in the practice arena area, with eight targets set 8' apart from center along the west side of the site at the 60' mark from the outside (50' from inside) wall. Depending upon the stage of the event, archers may loose from the 120' mark (60' / 20yds range), or from the 150' mark (90' / 30yds range).

The long-course archery range usually has two targets but is modified now to allow three targets at the north end for contestants. Standing points are at 210' mark (180' / 60yds range) and 330' mark (300' / 100yds range). If organizers wish to modify the range distances, of course they may. On the 360'+ to the north of the wall, there are additional spots that can be used for the arrow games.

Hugo and Primula PipeLeaf let you know The Slings and Arrows shop will help sponsor the contest, and offer a grand trophy for the best archer, and additional trophies for the subcontests. Pirnook Deeppockets offers to sell archery bracers, various prices for various qualities. The cheapest are cheap indeed, but may afford a measure of protection for the flesh of the forearm for one to five shots of the bow.

Mulberry Drinkwater offers to help hand out awards to the victors. Mayor Bingo Bumbleluck and his wife May Greenbottle Bumbleluck offer to be there, with his lovely daughter Blossom. "We'll have a golden key for the best halfling archer." Eldon and Cora TossCobble offer to help oversee the children's archery event. "I will provide lemonade for the young contestants," Cora declares. Tiana Taithen of the Second Dinner Club lets Hobie know that she'd like to watch over the event from up on the rocky castle. "Just to keep an eye on things."

The manager of The Belly Buster asks if they can sell food to attendees at the Sanctuary. No word yet from The Dancing Pig as of yet, but perhaps Pressi will let us know if they want to join in.

So, can others than halflings participate? Are missile weapons other than arrows allowed? Bows only, or crossbows, too? What awards and prizes do members of the Sword wish to offer? Let us know. Lay down the rules, please, if you please.

Wedding - The week following Christmas
Mark your calendars...

Interim assistant ADM Kim 
Saturday December 26th, 2020 1:28:48 PM

** Crickets **

Happy Boxing day, friends!

Pressi (Melvin) - AC 26 (31), HP 132, CMD 25; Harper AC 30 (35), HP 94, CMD 29 (34) 
Monday December 28th, 2020 12:58:39 PM
Greetings and Salutations All

You are cordially invited, as a past or present member of Humble’s Ford, to attend the wedding of Murphy and Pressi. After a small ceremony in the Flower Temple, they will be exchanging vows in the Humble’s Sword Sanctuary, followed by a dinner reception in the Adventurers' Hall on the grounds of the Sanctuary. No RSVPs are needed (though we'd be happy to hear if you wish to reply), black tie optional. Do wear something. We look forward to you joining us in our moment of happiness.

-Pressi Silverglove and Murphy Leafwin Pipewood


For the downtime, Murphy and Pressi are finally getting married, and every past and present member of Humble’s Ford is invited. The ceremony will last from Dec 28 to Jan 4, when the game proper resumes. You may drop in and out as desired, much like the events in the Giggling Ghost, a chance for your old characters to catch up or see what’s new, or for your current characters to join in on the fun and meet some coven or family members. Or just send the two characters a note wishing them well.

-Pressi and Murphy (as played by Melvin Pollack and Kim McCoy)
( melvinpollack@gmail.com and kimmccoy52@outlook.com)

Game info block:
Website for Humble's Sword game: https://www.woldiangames.com/games/index.php?game=Humbles (let Cayzle know if you'd like temporary posting privileges at cayzle@cayzle.com
Map of Sanctuary Grounds: https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1DI8gdyiZ4YAZcagcaYjnYLlh6dWRNomRa8-scsIiqrY/edit?usp=sharing


Pressi (Melvin) - AC 26 (31), HP 132, CMD 25; Harper AC 30 (35), HP 94, CMD 29 (34) 
Monday December 28th, 2020 1:24:05 PM


Downstairs at the Dancing Pig, the coven continued to be busy. Robed casters and waiters worked to prepare food for travel. And many continued to argue over whether they had to wait for her to walk down on the aisle or pay up now. "A lot could still happen in a couple of hours," the ones that lost continued to insist.

Upstairs, Pressi fingered the fanciest dress she had ever seen, an ivory and black gown with silver accents, the veil by her side. Today was the day to get ready.

At the small temple of flower, Maid of Honor Talia continued to wait patiently. Harper remained by her side, a small pillow on the cat's back and a flower clipped to the ear. There had been rumors that Pressi's family were around, and nobody knew what that meant. So Talia kept an eye open.

At the guild hall, Constable Roscoe and much of the town leadership began to fill into the hallways. Only a few of them were betting on the outcome of this wedding.

The Kezz'm (BrianW) - AC 39/20/34; HP 210/219; Rumpus AC 32/15/27 HP 95/95 - 12 (1 Con damage) 
Tuesday December 29th, 2020 3:48:05 PM
"Hey Press, so are you doing the gender-normal thing?" asks Kezzem. "Because if not, I was wondering if I could be your man-of-honor since I've known you the longest. Maybe that's just a stupid idea. I mean, I would look silly in a dress."

Pressi (Melvin) - AC 26 (31), HP 132, CMD 25; Harper AC 30 (35), HP 94, CMD 29 (34) 
Tuesday December 29th, 2020 8:31:09 PM

"I think it's pretty clear that there's never been anything normal about me, gender or otherwise," Pressi quipped to Kezzem.

After a couple of more jokes, Pressi took Kezzem by the hands. "You are my best friend, my oldest friend, and the one that helped me get on track. In some ways, you are closer to being my sibling than any of my actual siblings. And I would love to make you my man of honor, dress or not.

"And if it is a stupid idea, its not the first stupid idea that worked and it won't be our last."

-------------------

At the small Temple of Flower, Pressi walked down the small aisle. Succotash stood by the temple leader, Murphy already standing and waiting (as was all of the current Humble's Sword).

With soft steps, she made her way to the center of the room.

She allowed herself to be happy.

Succotash (Jeremy) AC 32/17/30 CMD 22 HP 109/125 Valerie AC 37/15/32 CMD 32 HP 127/127 Spells 
Wednesday December 30th, 2020 5:53:24 AM
Standing up front in the temple, Succotash shifts from foot to foot uncomfortably a bit. Being in front of so many people has him feeling less then at ease. "Succotash you fool! you have faced off against dragons and all other sorts of nasty beasties, why are your knees shaking now!" The cleric thinks to himself, as he awaits Pressie's entrance. He does his best to hide his stage fright, but he is pretty sure that Murphy has caught on. Then Pressi and Kezzem come walking down the aisle, and his demeanor changes immediately. He has come to see this group of heroes as his second family, in the few years that he has been with them, and his love for them, and, for this moment only, for Pressi and Murphy especially, coupled with a strong desire to see the two enjoy and cherish their special day steels his nerves, and strengthens his resolve.

After Pressie's Grand entrance, Succotash addresses the congregation in his most dignified tone of voice, saying, "Marwiage, marwiage is what Bwings us together today. That bwessed arrangement, that dweam within a dweam!" He then turns to Murphy and asks, "Have you the wing?"

Interim assistant ADM Kim 
Wednesday December 30th, 2020 6:55:29 AM

One of Murphy's oldest friends, Bob Danderfluff LaRue - known to all as 'Hazel' for the color of his eyes - agreed to be his best man, just as Murphy had been his. The ranger had it much more together than was the case at his own wedding, and was able to take care of several things to smooth things out. When Hazel learns of Kezzem's proposal to serve as 'man of honor' to Pressi, he rolls his eyes. "Kez, sir, you are one of my favorite nut jobs. Welcome to the show!" His wife Alouryn offered to help Pressi as one of her bridesmaids. "Or perhaps," Alouryn says, "a bride's matron." She rubs her now slightly rounded lower stomach. She managed with the help of other clerics of Flower to festoon the temple with a multitude of pastel ribbons in tasteful drapings. Tali asks if Kezzem is to be her 'man of honor' if she still will be the maid of honor - which she would be fine with, or a bridesmaid if not. She seems very humble and willing to do what Pressi wants in the matter.

Murphy's family filled a few pews in the chapel, which had been somewhat expanded with the incorporation of the followers of Ffloy into the Temple of Flower. Not all are here, for space is dear. The front row, left side as one faces the front, is reserved for members of Humble's Sword, whether current or former.

Murphy manages to notice toward the back one of Pressi's sisters, Markrid. She had accompanied their mother Yamyra who interviewed Murphy in the undermountain grotto not long past. When Markrid catches Murphy's eye, her face briefly reflects the smile she had as she chuckled that day at something or other Murphy had said, bantering with Mother Yamyra in that place of power.

With an ethereal grace the elderly yet radiant High Priest Sarabella LoveSong sweeps from out the curtains behind the altar. She sings a simple tune:
"In Flower's Town the blossoms bloom
In scarlet, mauve, and sweet perfume
We gather here - our Lady's room
As comes the bride to her bridegroom"
"Welcome one and all: Family, friends, neighbors, dignitaries. With the passing of years we noted with gratitude members of Humble's Sword on several occasions working hard to defend our town and beloved valley from many who envy the blessings we enjoy, the blessings of Lady Flower. She teaches and counsels us toward committed love rich and deep, and marriage between a couple for life. Such allows offspring of such a union to be taught, protected, shaped and nurtured, and for the couple to serve their community in myriad ways.

"I will not speak long today. The growing love and respect between Pressi Silverglove and Murphy Leafwin Pipewood has been evident to many." She takes a budding flower from a nearby vase. "I've heard tell that the two used a budding flower early in their friendship to illustrate the wisdom of not stirring up love too quickly, but rather waiting for it to grow and unfold according to nature. Shall we pull quickly the petals open, only to watch them fall to the ground, torn and damaged? No. Thus have we seen these two move with fair patience toward this day, and the time is now for the bud to come to full bloom."

She dusts the bud with a light powder, purses her lips and blows the powder off. She hums and a soft glow envelopes the bud, the stem grows longer in her hand, leafs emerge along the stem, and the bud begins to flower. She hands the now dazzling flower to Kezzem. "Here. You take care of this."

"Brother Succotash here, a member of Humble's Sword, would like to address you before we proceed to the formal vows. Brother Succotash?"

She steps aside to let him speak.

Once he has concluded, she picks up again.
"In life there is suffering. In life there are joys. Will you Murphy, and will you Pressi, covenant together to provide comfort where there is suffering, and to share in celebration of times of joy? Will you work together, serve each other, and yield one to the other? Will love be your aim?"

"The vows here are simple. Will you, Murphy, take this woman Pressi to your wedded wife, to hold at bed and at board, for fairer and fouler, for better for worse, in sickness and in health, till you depart this life for the lands of rest?"

"And will you, Pressi, take this man Murphy to your wedded husband, to hold at bed and at board, for fairer and fouler, for better for worse, in sickness and in health, till you depart this life for the lands of rest?"

"Now, have you a token of your pledge?" [Exchange of rings, or something else?]

"In view of the covenent promises made here this day, and the tokens of their pledge, in the presence of Flower and of these witnesses, I hereby declare you husband and wife. You may share a kiss in seal of the covenant."


Murphy Leafwin Pipewood(KimMc) Halfling Druid, bridegroom 
Wednesday December 30th, 2020 7:32:07 AM

Murphy sees Markrid, and nods toward her, glad that at least one member of Pressi's family chose to attend. He grins at his family. His father pushes back the wavy lock of hair that fell across his forehead, then gives Murphy a customary congratulatory gesture with a smooth movement of his hand. Others briefly catch his eye. Then Leska Rose points over her shoulder and mouths 'she's here!.

All looking elsewhere stops. Pressi approaches, a vision in ivory, black and silver. He can see hints of her features behind the veil. Why is his heart racing so? As she draws nearer, he takes several deep breaths after realizing his breath had stopped for a moment. The pulse comes a tiny bit more under control.

She comes to his side, and he places his hand in hers.
==========

Murphy turns toward the front as Succotash begins to speak... then Sarabella comes forth. He thinks to himself, maybe they didn't have a chance to coordinate everything. [Sorry, Jeremy - did not see your post until after I had posted]

He attends to the priestess as much as he can. But mostly he simply senses beside him the one he has been waiting for. He breathes in her scent. He lightly rubs his thumb over the back of her hand. He listens to what Succotash may have to add. When asked the questions by Sarabella, he nods his head in affirmation as she goes through some questions, says, "Yes," to 'Will love be your aim?' At the vow, he answers, "I will." Somehow he likes the phrase 'bed and board.'

At the exchange of rings, he thanks Harper as he takes the ring he had crafted for Pressi to complement and augment the engagement ring he earlier had given her. In a mixture of warmth and nerves, he places it upon her ring finger. He receives what she gives him.

Husband and wife? Kiss? He lifts her veil, drinks in her countenance, then closes his eyes as their lips meet. They press warmly together. After perhaps 12 seconds, he separates just long enough to kiss her forehead, then grins large, his face flushed.

The Kezz'm (BrianW) - AC 39/20/34; HP 210/219; Rumpus AC 32/15/27 HP 95/95 - 12 (1 Con damage) 
Wednesday December 30th, 2020 1:06:45 PM
"Ooo, I get a flower!" says Kezzem excitedly. Then he notices everyone looking at him. "Never mind, carry on."

Pressi (Melvin) - AC 26 (31), HP 132, CMD 25; Harper AC 30 (35), HP 94, CMD 29 (34) 
Wednesday December 30th, 2020 9:53:11 PM
Pressi declines Alouryn's offer to be part of the party with all the grace and politeness she can muster.

To Murphy, Bob and Alouryn are a key part of history. With her, they're strangers less recognizable than white shirt #6. She has Leska and Naftali giving her away, Kezzem as the man of honor, Talia and the cohort as bridesmaids, and Shel and Alleah rounding out the group. So she hopes everyone understands.

Its not like any of her relatives are in the bridal party, lurking in the shadows as they may be.

The day goes by quickly. She chuckles at Succotash, keeps a close but cold eye on Markrid (she may be imagining things but there's something up, there. And... is that heavy armor?). She gives her vows, calms her own nerves, takes her own ring from Harper to give to Murphy....

And after a deep kiss with Murphy, she realizes the ceremony went by in an instant.

Murphy Leafwin Pipewood(KimMc) Halfling Druid, bridegroom 
Thursday December 31st, 2020 2:16:37 AM

Murphy walks arm in arm with his love back up the aisle. He turns about as they get to the entrance, and says to those in the temple, "COME NOW ALL, AND FOLLOW MY BRIDE, MY WIFE, THE BEAUTIFUL PRESSI AND ME TO THE SANCTUARY OF HUMBLE'S SWORD!" He kisses her cheek, and the two lead the way out the door in the direction stated. The druid feels like he could run like the wind, energized in a new sort of way. "Got any plans for tonight, babe?" he asks casually.

Interim assistant ADM Kim 
Thursday December 31st, 2020 2:44:24 AM

People stream out the temple, and more await without. Petals strew the entrance and out to the streets, the fragrance of them joining other scents wafting about.

Several clerics and beautiful acolytes of Flower dance around the party, singing a song of the blessings of Flower and of family, and see them halfway to the Sanctuary, bidding a lovely farewell. At the same time, Kendry the bard and older brother of Murphy leads a small band playing along with the Flower dancers until they depart, and switching to lively music from the Valley along the rest of the way.

With many having come a few days earlier for the archery competition, some have stayed on for what they heard should be upcoming festivities and a chance for free food.

It seems the population of Humble's Ford has grown nearly by a third again on the day of the wedding. People chatter, smile, gossip. As the crowd processes Constable Rosco lifts an adolescent boy by his suspenders and takes him off to one side. It's hard to hear what he says to the lad, but the boy runs off as the lawman gives him a swat on the bottom. He joins in next to Hobie. "The kid reached into Madame LaRue's purse. He didn't quite manage to keep the small jar he tried to extract," he explains quietly to his cousin.

People are welcomed and routed from the South Gate toward Rock Castle, then leftward and into Adventurers' Hall. Food and beverages are available on numerous small tables, and little plates for people to place their food upon.

A table for members of Humble's Sword and the wedding party is at one side of the large hallway. There is even a plate of worms set forth for Mookie.

As he takes a seat, Murphy leans over to ask, "Succotash, did you really say 'a dweam within a dweam'?"

Succotash (Jeremy) AC 32/17/30 CMD 22 HP 109/125 Valerie AC 37/15/32 CMD 32 HP 127/127 Spells 
Thursday December 31st, 2020 5:54:42 AM
"Well you see Murph, I'm not used to pomp and circumstance, as you know, and well,and being a cleric is still pretty new to me, but a while back I saw this play and in the play there was this cleric who everyone respected, and he talked like that. At a wedding, he used just such a monologue, and well, I just assumed it was the proper way of things, so I tried to imitate him."

OOC... IRL, I was officiating a friends wedding, and used the Princess Bride quote as my opening. The congregation burst out laughing, and the best man nearly fell over. After the wedding, my friend and his bride thanked me, as, besides making them laugh, it set their minds at ease, and they were able to enjoy the wedding as a result.

Pressi (Melvin) - AC 26 (31), HP 132, CMD 25; Harper AC 30 (35), HP 94, CMD 29 (34) 
Friday January 1st, 2021 5:28:27 PM
Sorry about missing yesterday and today. I’ll try to get something out tonight.

Pressi (Melvin) - AC 26 (31), HP 132, CMD 25; Harper AC 30 (35), HP 94, CMD 29 (34) 
Friday January 1st, 2021 8:54:11 PM
Pressi and Murphy sit side by side, well aware of the rule that they are not allowed to eat at a wedding.

Lots of dancing. Lots of laughing. Lots of conversation. Enough toasts to fill a dwarven drinking contest.

And of course, the needed thank you to everyone who attended, and doubly so to everyone in the party or that helped out. And a few "The Notebook" references for people that call out "Princess Bride."

Pressi was pretty sure she didn't see any of her sisters... though, that didn't always mean things. (Markrid, for example, was probably outside at this time, enjoying a touch of pipe.... and, unknown to Pressi, trying to figure out why nobody here detected evil.)

Interim assistant ADM Kim 
Friday January 1st, 2021 9:50:44 PM

Somehow or other, Murphy is unaware of the rule that the bride and groom are not allowed to eat at a wedding. "We'll reserve wolpertingers for the weddings of government officials, though, right?" He does not, however, go overboard on the feast. Much of the time he feasts his eyes upon his - wife. Especially so when she is talking with others.

Being a member of the Leafwin Pipewood family, though, he very much engages socially with those in attendance.

The first bard who had been a member of Humble's Sword showed up - Hin Billy he goes by, though his name is Flimsipond Williewhim. He plays a banjo, and sings a song that both honors the bride and groom, and also has words of praise for Mulberry DrinkWater. He had wanted to name this adventuring group after her, after all.

Murphy Leafwin Pipewood(KimMc) Halfling Druid, husband 
Saturday January 2nd, 2021 12:55:25 AM

Enjoying the toasts, the congratulations, the jokes, the stories, the dancing, Murphy loves that so many celebrate with them. After some sort of respectable time, Murphy talks with Pressi about leaving. "I have planned us a honeymoon, dear, and we have a few places to go. Shall we take our leave, that I may take you away?" When she is ready, he steps up on the stage where the musicians play.

"Thank you all for coming together with us at this moment of joy, and serving as witnesses to our vows. We love our community, our valley, and our people. Feel free to remain, feast, sing, enjoy each others' company."

"But for now, it is time for us to ask for your prayers, and take our leave. My wife and I have - much to discuss," he says with a grin. Hazel, meanwhile directs the crowd to clear a space on the dance floor right before the stage, and lays out a carpet. Murphy holds out his hand for Pressi. He says a few words, and the carpet rises, now even with the stage. With her hand in his, he steps with onto the carpet. "Let us fly away - to our honeymoon."

Foreman George and some of his workers pull some ropes along the south wall, and two doors open up about 15 feet above the floor, plenty wide enough for the carpet and passengers to fit through. Murphy directs the carpet to fly in a loop over the crowd, then makes a beeline for the opening.

And off go Pressi and Murphy. They'll be back, in due course.

Pressi (Melvin) - AC 26 (31), HP 132, CMD 25; Harper AC 30 (35), HP 94, CMD 29 (34) 
Sunday January 3rd, 2021 7:16:32 PM
Sorry about missing yesterday and today. I’ll try to get something out tonight.

Pressi (Melvin) - AC 26 (31), HP 132, CMD 25; Harper AC 30 (35), HP 94, CMD 29 (34) 
Sunday January 3rd, 2021 7:16:35 PM
Sorry about missing yesterday and today. I’ll try to get something out tonight.

DM Kathy 
Sunday January 3rd, 2021 8:02:29 PM
After Pressi and Murphy depart through the ceiling (to a few oohs and aahs from the crowd), the party begins in earnest. There is more music, more dancing, more ale, more wine. The revels continue far into the night, with some of the revelers dropping right there in the room to sleep off the effects and awaken confused the next morning.

Some time later comes the task of sorting and cataloging all the wedding gifts. There are place settings and wine glasses, towels and tablecloths. The his and hers quivers were a nice touch, although neither bride nor groom is much of an archer. Some gifts get a little obscure. Who knew there were both shrimp forks and lobster forks? And how often does a person really need a grapefruit spoon? Then there are the gifts that are just downright strange. Maybe because bride and groom are adventurers? But honestly, who would want a toby jug of a leering goblin?

Still, it's nice. It was a nice party. It's nice to see Murphy and Pressi finally tie the knot. And it's nice to have this little break between adventures, with nothing more pressing to worry about than what to do with all those lobster forks.

Murphy Leafwin Pipewood(KimMc) Halfling Druid, husband 
Sunday January 3rd, 2021 8:25:58 PM

If it please the court... I mean DM Kathy - Murphy and Pressi take ten days away for their honeymoon, and return to complete their training with the WLA, so perhaps two or so days in Angel Springs. While there, Murphy contacts the elven druids who live in the grove just outside of town. If I understand correctly, some of them are members of the Circle of the Oak, and over a year ago an anonymous pretty-high-level druid let Murphy know that he was under consideration for membership in this druidic circle. He has interacted lightly with members of the Angel Spring druids before, so there is at least a light acquaintance there. He passes on items which may be of interest to them. He also adds, shortly before taking his leave, that he is curious as to the process of joining the Circle. "If there are additional tasks or requirements, I should be pleased to do what I may."

After WLA training, unless Pressi wants to do otherwise, the pair will return to Humble's Ford with just shy of two weeks absence from the town.

Most of the details of their honeymoon can be left to the imagination. Among the places they visited, though, were:
- The wolpertingle dwellings in the Culverwood, near where Murphy has a very comfortable treehouse he has surreptitiously built during brief breaks in prior adventures. He also harvests a few small items of different types of wood he has been keeping an eye on. Also, from there, a quick trip to The Emerald City to pick up a few items he ordered, and a night at the theater for Pressi. I couldn't find anything by your friend Shakespeare, but am told there is a wonderful musical about the romance of Lord Lucas and Lady Meridian, whoever they are, or were."
- A night in the Grotto of Power
- A storm giant castle near the town of Dhahe on Shadow Mountain where live Vurus and Thalika, parents to 'the largest baby in the Wold,' Lonia, nicknamed 'Calm Tempest' by Murphy, whom they had rescued from the circus slavers and returned to their parents. Pressi was instrumental in finding the babe's family. Murphy would like to see how things go with the - almost toddler, now? - since they brought her home. While there, he also makes a point to buy a keg of Porter from Xedor, whom Vurus claimed to be 'the best brewer on the mountain.' He thinks it a suitable thank you to Succotash and Kezzem for contributing each in his own way to the nuptials.
- Windhorn Hamlet, to visit the place at Dragon Bay where every year a special ceremony is held from time immemorial to protect the small town.
- Any place or two or three of Pressi's choosing. Even Dirt City. They could go in disguise.
Among the questions he has for Pressi (and there are many) is, "Tell me about the black dragon."

Mostly, he is simply delighted to spend time with the one who chose him, and whom he chose back.

Upon their return, Murphy says, "We're back! Did you miss us? Or, at least, Pressi?"

Bliss HP213+12/165 AC31 | Mookie HP76+8/76 AC41 | Cayzle 
Sunday January 3rd, 2021 8:46:55 PM

Bliss and Mookie enjoy the celebrations quietly, offering sincere congratulations to the happy couple, of course.

In a corner, Mookie teases Bliss. "What's that, Kid? A tear?"

"I always cry at weddings!" Bliss says.

Pressi (Melvin) - AC 26 (31), HP 132, CMD 25; Harper AC 30 (35), HP 94, CMD 29 (34) 
Sunday January 3rd, 2021 10:05:45 PM
Harper smirks at seeing that Murphy has chosen a magic carpet... for two people that can fly. Pressi, however, does appreciate the showmanship.

And with that, they float up into the stars above.

The Honeymoon is a bit of a blur, even with the extended time. (Pressi picks some time to sightsee in New Elenna before heading back to Angel Springs... and isn't quite ready to head back to Dirt City. She does take some time to look back at some of the places she lived oh so long ago... the dance halls of New Elena, the monestary at Angel Springs, etc.)

She needs some context regarding "Tell me about the black dragon?"

Succotash (Jeremy) AC 32/17/30 CMD 22 HP 109/125 Valerie AC 37/15/32 CMD 32 HP 127/127 Spells 
Monday January 4th, 2021 5:54:34 AM
Succotash parties a bit too hard. He didn't mean to, but the ale was just too good, and the gathering of friends and such was just too much fun, as a result, he failed to moderate himself. Meeting several of the former Swords, most for the first time, was quite an experience, and for the first time he realized the legacy he has joined, as well as the impact that this band of halflings has had on the Crescent Valley, and the Wold at large. Somehow he was able to stumble to his room to sleep off the effects of the nights over imbibing, only to awake with a throbbing headache, and thinks that maybe it's time to work on creating a spell that cures hangovers.

Hobie (Nick T) HP 189/181 AC 33 Touch 19 Flat 27 CMD 37 Hero Points 8 Prepared Spells 
Monday January 4th, 2021 6:31:18 AM
Hobie enjoys the merriment as well, and finds himself taken aback a bit by the romance of the event.

He spends much of the evening drinking with his friends, but also makes sure to spend some time getting aquainted with some of the more beautiful young cousins of Murph and Press in town for the wedding. Hobie wants to someday settle down and run an archer's academy, and it might be nice to have a wife to be settled with.

DM Kathy 
Monday January 4th, 2021 3:09:01 PM
Murphy and Pressi enjoy their honeymoon.

Back in Humble's Ford, Succotash sleeps off the affects of the wedding, and Bliss sheds a tear or two.

Hobie makes a point of meeting nice young ladies because there isn't much opportunity for that kind of thing on the moon. Or in a pocket realm crawling with undead. Two sisters in particular capture your interest--Berry and Dapple Greenbanks, distant cousins of the Tosscobbles. Dapple, the younger sister, is sweet and friendly. Berry, the elder, is not sweet or friendly, but somehow she's more interesting than her sister.

As you await the return of the honeymooners, the rainy early spring turns to a more pleasant mid-spring. Flowers bloom everywhere, and birds dart about busily building their nests. In the nearby farms, foals, calves, and other baby animals are welcomed into the world.

Pressi (Melvin) - AC 26 (31), HP 132, CMD 25; Harper AC 30 (35), HP 94, CMD 29 (34) 
Monday January 4th, 2021 8:50:30 PM
Pressi tries to stop being coy regarding the "black dragon." "It's just greater polymorph. I can become a medium sized dragon and... I don't know. I try to think about what kind of dragon is best tactically, but I guess I'm always going to be a sucker for style."

----------------

After a honeymoon, it's time to get back to work. Running a business, running a cohort, taking some magical training (after some thought as to whether to go back to Justicar, Pressi decides that Bloodwitch is where to continue, plus she kind of promised Bliss she'd try to reach the advanced rituals), and... gear, as always.



Succotash (Jeremy) AC 32/17/30 CMD 22 HP 109/125 Valerie AC 37/15/32 CMD 32 HP 127/127 Spells 
Tuesday January 5th, 2021 6:03:40 AM
As he waits for the love birds to return, Succotash decides to teleport over to Merrydale to visit his parents. He spends some quality time sipping tea with his mother, who seemed much more concerned that he find a "Misses Slenderstick" then his adventures, though she is genuinely happy to see him, and makes sure he eats his fill, claiming he needs to put on a few pounds, and simply tut-tuts Succotash when he tries to explain that his active life as an adventurer keeps him skinny. Well, skinny by halfling standards anyway.

His father is a different story however. The elder Slenderstick is genuinely glad to see his son, but he can't help but remind Succotash that he believes adventuring is nonsense, and that he should retire and come home to work in the silversmith shop. Of course Succotash reminds his father that he has zero natural talent, and very little gained skill in the art and that he would bring down the name of the family business, to which his father grumbles, and says, "That's because you didn't apply yourself hard enough!" Succotash uses his diplomatic skills to deescalate the conversation, as the last thing he wants to do is start a fight with his father.

Succotash spends a week with his parents, and as he is preparing to teleport back to Humble's Ford, his mother gives him a big hug, and his father hands him a beautiful silver ring saying, "Your mother asked me to craft this for you. She wants you to have it, to give to a sweet heart." Succotash chuckles as he looks at his mother, and then back at his father. He is just about to cast his teleport spell, when his father reaches out and gives him a hearty hug, then says something that Succotash never expected to hear, "I love you son. Be careful out there, and you need to visit more often. It makes your mother happy." Succotash is about to ask what his father thinks, but then sees the tear in the corner of his father's eye, and he knows. "I love You too dad", he says as he returns his father's hug, and nearly breaks into tears, as this was the first time he had embraced his father and heard him say "I love you", since before he left home.

After the hugs, Succotash slips the ring on his pinky, and casts his teleportation spell, arriving at the Sanctuary, where he heads to his room and cries tears of joy.

The Kezz'm (BrianW) - AC 39/20/34; HP 210/219; Rumpus AC 32/15/27 HP 95/95 - 12 (1 Con damage) 
Tuesday January 5th, 2021 12:46:57 PM
Kezzem is bored without Murphy and Pressi to annoy.

He does check in with the Bad Apples to see how they are doing.

Hobie (Nick T) HP 189/181 AC 33 Touch 19 Flat 27 CMD 37 Hero Points 8 Prepared Spells 
Tuesday January 5th, 2021 2:36:27 PM
Hobie flirts initially with Dapple, but is taken by something interesting about Berry, and spends most of the evening with her, ignoring her sister and eventually ignoring even his friends


Last interim ADM post regarding wedding reception (so a slight step back) 
Tuesday January 5th, 2021 2:59:04 PM
At the wedding reception, noting Hobie noting some of the (unattached?) womenfolk at the gathering, makes a point to introduce not just him, but the other party members as well to his first cousins through his father's twin sister, Murphy's Aunt Shanzi Lips and her husband Jonno 'Vines' Swordfern Trufflefinder. The second oldest son of the family is Till Hamwich (Buckleberry Pipewood Trufflefinder) - and Hobie would have gotten to know him a bit since Till did quite well in the archery tournament held last week.

Till introduces his wife of four years, Mollybel, to Hobie, then to the rest of the Swords. He also introduces some of his younger sisters. Camellia is skilled in arcane arts, has a sharp eye, is quite comely, but seems politely distant. Nora is pleasingly plump, and giggles like a girl, though she is perhaps in her 30s. Lily Newbury has wavy auburn hair similar to her mother, a slight yet charming gap between her front teeth, moves with grace, and wears a small sheathed inverted dagger on a necklace. "Till is smitten with you, Hobie Browncloak. We watched you at the tournament." She smiles, turns and walks away.

Strawberry blonde Prisca curtsies to those at the table, and says, "Mookie, my sister is writing a story book about you and your friend Bliss." She doesn't say which sister, but Nora giggles and runs away right after Prisca speaks. A fellow at her arm says, "It's good to have the Swords here. You folks have pulled our town's butts out of the fire many times. I'm Drogo, these girls' brother. One of 'em, anyways." Looking over, he says, "Hey, Kezzem. You're my favorite member of the Swords." He doesn't explain why. He points over his shoulder to a fellow who looks like a sibling. "That's Ponto, stuffing his face again." Ponto looks like he could use the food - quite lithe. Murphy mentions they have other siblings, but he's not seeing them at the moment. Ponto, having finished the chicken leg, comes over. "Mister Succotash, could you tell me how it was you were a paladin, but then became a cleric?"

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