DM Robert - thus it begins Monday February 1st, 2021 7:54:17 PM Don't know if you've had a chance to look but here are some images for the new folk to help you get familiar with things. The Float
info on lakeview most of the way down the page there are a couple of links with maps to the HQ. =======
A few days pass. OOC not sure what season it should be I haven't been keeping track. Anyone know, or have a preference? The days have been light and easy and you have managed to adjust back to the day to day of things. Sid spends most of his time with Elly at the Split Arrow. Stock and Stohp seem to be getting some work done in the wood shop. Bartomus too has been doing some workshop work, and with all of them the workshop seems to be getting a bit cramped at time. Zanderallen has taken to his daily workouts. Micah seems the most at loose ends, though when his new hammer arrives he is sorely tempted to try it out on the practice dummy.
Please give some details/examples as to your daily lives, when not racing out to save the world.
One morning Pepper Plate shows up just as Zanderallen has finished his morning workout. She is of course here to see Zanderallen. "Hi. I understand you've been busy saving the Float again. Would you care to give an exclusive?" She winks at him.
Later that same day there is knock at the door. "Greetings I am brother Carlo of the Circle of Alder. May I speak with Bartomus?" Knowledge Local 15 Highlight to display spoiler: {The Circle of Alder is a druid circle located in the Float, upper level. They originally founded when the Float was transported here. Their mission was to try and find a way of peace between the Float and the sentient forest angered at the Float's sudden appearance. Needless to say now that the Crying Wood has receded from the entire forest to the north-west plateau, they are not as needed as previously.}
Bartomus(Rod) HP: 76/76 AC 19; CMD 20 Melee +8;Perc+12;Heal+9 d8+1 d20+7=27 ; Monday February 1st, 2021 9:26:09 PM
For Bartomus, there was a pleasantness to the reprieve they were enjoying. He started his day with his morning meditation from a window that overlooked the Float. Sometimes he went to the druidic circle, but he liked just looking out over the changing flow of the water and the weather that circled about the towering building that was the Float.
He also worked in the workshop or at the workbench in his quarters. He finished his carving of the Shield's underwater adventure and began the work on another large bone carving of the battle against the mechanized spider and their interactions with the three ladies of the Drow.
He had been out in the common room when Pepper Plate showed up looking for Zander. He snickered, "Zander how could you not assure Pepper of being exclusively her," he paused and let that pause almost become awkward, "main source."
He hummed as he headed back to his workbench leaving the reporter to pepper, or drill, or question, what ever her special source. After a bit more work, he needed a break and walked down to the main floor and pulled himself a draft of mead. He took a sip and then there was a knock at the door. He looked about and sighed.
"Coming, Coming," Bartomus yelled at the door. He opened it and was surprised to see one of the leaders of a druidic circle higher in the Float. Carlo introduced himself, Bartomus had seen the man numerous times about the Float, but had never really met the druid.
"Greetings Brother Carlo, I am Bartomus, one of The Shields." Bartomus extended his hand in greeting to the man. "You grant both The Shields and I a great honor by even coming here. Please come in, I was just about to enjoy a much needed draw of mead. May I pull the same for you?"
Delia (Hannah) HP: 87/87; AC 23/16/18; CMD 29 Monday February 1st, 2021 10:34:41 PM
After her early morning mediations, Delia spends the rest of her mornings on the rooftop making use of the archery targets there, though adding complexity to the exercises: cover, targets at different angles, moving shots, etc. She would also spend some time in the common areas of the HQ, getting to know her new companions more. As she spent more time around the Shields, they would quickly learn that she is open and cheerful, but rather direct in how she speaks.
For example, when Pepper Plates showed up asking for Zanderallen, she watched the two of them and their interactions for a few moments before observing out loud, "Oh! You guys are dating!" before going back to what she was previously doing as if remarking in such a way was completely normal.
When she heard someone arrive looking for a party member, she would make her down to the common room, wondering if this meant trouble had found the Shields this quickly.
Delia (Hannah) HP: 87/87; AC 23/16/18; CMD 29 Monday February 1st, 2021 10:38:36 PM OOC: Whoops! Messed up my link the first time. Hopefully I didn't miss something this time too.
DM I edited it so it wouldn't throw off the view in non-computer devices.
Stohp (Mitch) HP: 82/82 hp AC: 25/15/21 CMB: +13 (17 Grapple, 15 Trip, 17 Disarm) CMD: 22 (+4 vs grapple,+2 disarm) Tuesday February 2nd, 2021 6:24:37 AM
Stohp spends her days checking in with their various allies, training at the Woldian Adventurer's League, and doing small carpentry projects. She's formed a habit of keeping her eye on things, the better to hear of trouble early rather then them hearing of it after it becomes disaster.
Micah (John) HP: 90/90 AC: 27/12/27 CMD:20 Tuesday February 2nd, 2021 11:21:53 AM
Micah observes the others as they return back to a daily routine. Satisfied that everyone is well and recovered, he sets to studying the creature notes acquired in the menagerie. Before long, the meeting room table is covered with scrolls and books as he references and cross-references anything that might be advantageous in dealing with future threats.
Occasionally, he will take a break, heading to the rooftop to stretch and walk. One of those breaks involves testing his new warhammer, testing its hardness on various scraps he has scrounged for the purpose. Once satisfied that it will do the job should they encounter constructs, he cleans and oils it before storing it in his room.
At other times on the roof, Delia's practice is of particular interest to him, impressing him with both her skill and her determination. It is not long before he is gently prompting her to talk of her history and battle experience, hoping to get to know her better.
Zanderallen (Zachary H) 119/119 AC: 29 T: 13 FF: 28 CMD: 24 Tuesday February 2nd, 2021 2:46:44 PM
Zander grins as Pepper arrives, pulling out his stacks of notes. "I've already got the highlights, I'm sure you'll want to grill me over the details though." At Delia's comment he barely even turns red, used as he has become to teasing from other members of the party, "Oh, Pepper this is Delia, a new member of the Shields and the man with the glowing eyes over there is Ohen, the other new member. Delia, Ohen, this is Pepper Plates, the most talented reporter on the Float."
Zanderallen settles back into what most people would consider normal life. His days start with devotions, which as a follower of Domi include martial exercise. He insists on pulling Micah away from his studies to practice with him and invites any other of the Shields to join. Seeking profitable use of his time he seeks out various devouts of Domi in the city and offers his brute or expertise in their daily crafts and practices. Whether pumping the bellows at the Smith's forge, leading weapon drills for the temple trainees, or generally lending a hand. He spends time watching Delia's practice asking her questions about her past and freely answering questions. Without the bond of joint martial exercise he finds Ohen harder to talk to but tries his best. Most dinners he takes at one of the taverns, with Pepper whenever her work permits.
Sid(Andrew) HP: 66/66; AC: 19/16/14; CMB: 7; CMD: 22 Speed: 30ft, Swim 30ft.) Tuesday February 2nd, 2021 5:28:52 PM
Sid and Elly are up early, having an easy breakfast and catching up with the local news. Sid will then setup somewhere and fletch a few arrows as he and Elly chat until it is time to open the store. He then gets out from under heel by going to HQ for morning tea and reading the paper. After an hour there, if nothing calls him to other duties, he goes and checks on his Trash Guild and see how they are doing. When they have issues that need solving he stays around until there is a solution as they are working on recycling, upcycling, and fixing whatever they can. If he's not needed he'll skip back downstairs to the Arrow so that he can take Elly to lunch. In the afternoon he studies and or watches the front of the shop while Elly teaches the apprentice. They all eat together and he studies more.
Ohen Kuldrven (Jacob H) HP: 83/83, AC: 22 (14T, 20 I, 20F, 19CMD); Permanent: Arcane Sight(120'), Darkvision(60'), See Invis, Perc +15 Tuesday February 2nd, 2021 6:35:34 PM
Ohen will spend most of his time trying to get to know everyone. He'll complement Bartomus's, Stohp's, and Stock's crafting, he'll curiously inquire about Micah's notes on the meeting room table, he'll practice on the roof as well with Delia, trying out his various spells that don't cause explosions and talking with the other casters about their powers. He will eventually participate a little in Zanderallen's martial exercise, after it takes a few days to realize this is the main way Zanderallen gets to know people. He will also talk to Sid, asking how business is going, and occasionally checks in with his father, to see how the trades are going.
DM Robert - "Zander how could you not assure Pepper of being exclusively her...main source." Tuesday February 2nd, 2021 8:05:05 PM Hero point for Bartomus for making the DM laugh out loud.
Bartomus crafts Delia shoots and gets to know people Stohp checks on allies (hmm, specifcs...not that that could be important) Micah immerses himself in study Zanderallen practices and lends a hand Sid works in his shop Ohen does some magic and martial practicing Stock ??????
Pepper Plate beams at Zanderallen's announcement and gives him a HUGE hug. "Great, what say we go someplace for lunch and talk about it." She pauses going into reporter mode, "Though actually I guess we should get someone else perspective on events.. She looks a little dejected at the thought of not having a private date with Zanderallen.
Brother Carlo enters the headquarters. "Thank you Master Bartomus. yes you can the capitalization"Well it's a bit early for mead, and really I'm here at the behest of Druid Cathbad. As you know this Friday is the rare double full moon of Kerracles and Wardd."Yes the Wold has 2 moons and those are the official names."As you know that is a rare occasion and it is also Yggdrasil Day."
Just an FYI new people when I call for a roll anyone present may make the roll Knowledge Religion 20, Highlight to display spoiler: { Yggdrasil Day, celebration of the world tree Yggdrasil, of the reality world it represents, of trees and nature, yes it's a real druidic holiday. Around April 22.}
Knowledge Local 15 Highlight to display spoiler: { The rare double full moon is also celebrated by those in love, or close to it, such things as midnight picnics where the moons can be seen are a sure sign of devotion between two people.}
Pepper Plate perks up with that announcement.
Perception 15 Highlight to display spoiler: { you see her glance over at Zanderallen but trying to not look like she is looking at Zanderallen.}
Brother Carlo continues. He is shuffling about from foot to foot and looks a bit embarrassed. "Well you see we thought that you might want to join us in the Greeting Ceremony for the full moons. I realize you'd probably be too busy to help with any of the festivities for Yggdrasil Day, but it would be an honor to us if you would come to the moon ceremony."
Sense Motive 25 Highlight to display spoiler: {It occurs to you that at your current status OOC and level that you may be as powerful as the most powerful serving the needs of the many on the Float.}
A different... Knowledge Local 20 Highlight to display spoiler: {Yggdrasil Day is not really widely celebrated on the Float. Really think about it the Float has been at siege with a sentient forest for years and that has only recently abated."}
Brother Carlo awaits a response. Others may await something as well.
Bartomus(Rod) HP: 76/76 AC 19; CMD 20 Melee +8;Perc+12;Heal+9 d8+1 d20=2 ; d20+7=8 ; d20+12=13 ; d20+8=18 ; d20+7=24 ; Tuesday February 2nd, 2021 10:57:43 PM
Maybe it was the Master Bartomus, maybe it was the mead, or maybe it was Brother Carlo and what he was saying, Bartomus was tongue-tied. It was almost like the time he had met Eberyon in the wooded copse years ago. His mind didn't work, his tongue didn't really move, and his mouth tried making words, but nothing.
He eventually managed to nod twice and work out an odd-sounding "sure, of course."
KnowRel - 2; Know Local (1+7); Perc (1+12); SenMot 18; KnowLoc 24 (Good flipping lord two 1's in a row)
Stohp (Mitch) HP: 82/82 hp AC: 25/15/21 CMB: +13 (17 Grapple, 15 Trip, 17 Disarm) CMD: 22 (+4 vs grapple,+2 disarm) Wednesday February 3rd, 2021 6:37:10 AM
Stohp makes a regular habit of keeping track of the pulse of the city. She eats (for free) at the three inns every day and always gets rumors of possible problems and a general feel of people's mood. About once a week she checks in with various temples they've worked with in the past. In particular she used to keep a close eye on the Caeroldra temple, though with the goddess's death she's only managed to keep in touch with a couple of her former followers.
She maintains a friendship with some of the Ratfolk from the trash that they got to know a long time ago, meeting with them to have meals and talk about life semi-regularly. Whenever the Lizardfolk bring in new shipments she'll go say hi, maybe buy something, and see how their doing. With their more affluent allies she's less able to keep track. She certainly isn't going to try to have a meal with Lord Belkior once a week or anything like that and figures their gold level friends are busy and will call for them if something goes seriously wrong up there.
Stock (JonM) HP: 125/125; AC: 23/21/14; DR 2/-; CMD: 31; Rage: 14/28 used d20+3=4 ; d20+17=30 ; d20+9=17 ; d20+3=4 ; Wednesday February 3rd, 2021 10:03:01 AM
Stock hears the arrivals and ignores them, as he is busy building a bed for Ohen. The challenge isn't so much the man's size as it is his potential to light things on fire in his sleep...Eventually he peaks his head out of the workshop to catch up on what Bart is saying. The taur didn't sound worried as...almost nervous. Whatever is going on though, Stock has no idea what is going on except that Plate is making eyes at Z again.
======= Knowledge Local 4...must have missed what was said there Perception 30 Sense Motive 17 Local 4...Stock is woolgathering...maybe a darkwood bed wouldn't burn so much...
Zanderallen (Zachary H) 119/119 AC: 29 T: 13 FF: 28 CMD: 24 d20+10=24 ; d20+1=6 ; d20+7=18 ; d20+17=37 ; d20+1=5 ; d20+21=28 ; Wednesday February 3rd, 2021 11:53:18 AM
Noticing Bart's tongue-tied state, Zander considers for a moment leaving him awkwardly standing in front of the Druid after his comment about Pepper, but his better self wins out and he steps up, "Brother Carlo, it would be Master Bartomus'Zander draws out Master Bartomus just little bit pleasure to join you I'm sure, he's just a bit shy at times. Having seen the Crying Woods up close and personal I think I can speak for most of us when I say that we greatly appreciate the work of the druids here in the Float. If I may be so bold as to ask, is this event strictly a druidic event or might the rest of observe the ceremony as well? I completely understand if not." Zanderallen keeps his question as easy as possible, not wanting to apply any pressure to Carlo, but he is getting the signal that he should be interested. ------------------------------ 24(+10) Know Religion 6(+1) 1st Local 18(+7) Perception 37(+17) Sense Motive 5(+1) 2nd Local 28(+21) Diplomacy
Delia (Hannah) HP: 87/87; AC 23/16/18; CMD 29 d20=19 ; Wednesday February 3rd, 2021 3:16:53 PM
Delia willingly answers any of Micah's questions about her life, talking about her travels and time spent with various mercenary groups, along with the disastrous last mission that led her back home. In turn, she would ask questions about the Shields' MO and past adventures so that she is prepared for how they run their operation. Once she learned of the scrolls to help identify baddies, she would join Micah in looking through them.
She would nod politely at Pepper when introduced, unaware that she embarrassed Zanderallen and confused as to why Pepper is trying to conceal the direction of her gaze.
She stays silent as Brother Carlo talks to Bartomus and Zanderallen, watching and listening as she is unfamiliar with the significance of the request or the rituals.
================================ Perception: Auto success with +17 vs DC 15 Sense Motive: 22 (or 26 if Brother Carlo is a human) (+3; +4 FE vs humans)
Micah explains to Ohen that the scrolls and other writings were discovered at the former Caeroldyn menagerie and contains an almost encyclopedic recording about various creatures in the Wold and beyond.
Hearing the commotion downstairs, Micah takes the opportunity for a break and walks down the stairs to see. Though wearing a simple tunic and trousers, the wrought iron symbol of Domi gives a clear indication of his vocation. The mention of the Yggdrasil Day particularly captures his attention. Adding to Zanderallen's request, Yes, Brother. I would consider it a great honor if a I could join as well. Ecumenism benefits the Wold and all within it when we make the effort to practice it."
====================== Know Religion 28 vs DC 15 Perception 19 vs DC 15 Sense Motive 29 vs DC 29 Not trained in Knowledge Local Aid another on Zanderallen's diplomacy check autosucceeds making the final check a 30.
Ohen Kuldrven (Jacob H) HP: 83/83, AC: 22 (14T, 20 I, 20F, 19CMD); Permanent: Arcane Sight(120'), Darkvision(60'), See Invis, Perc +15 Wednesday February 3rd, 2021 6:04:23 PM
Ohen enters the room where everyone is gathering, he is ignorant of what is going on for the most part, but does notice Pepper Plate's looks.
Ohen has decided that he thinks it's hilarious that Stock thinks he needs a fireproof bed, and won't correct him.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Untrained in Religion and Local Auto succeeds with +15 Perception Doesn't add enough on Sense Motive to get 25
DM Robert - "...he's just a bit shy at times." Wednesday February 3rd, 2021 8:03:58 PM
Bartomus agrees to be at the ceremony? Stohp checked up on everyone, except the beast folk all left for their new town, there are no more in the city. Stock works on furnishing to the point of being unconcerned what's going. Zanderallen offers Bartomus's acceptance and offers the others as well. Delia listens quietly. Micah explains the scrolls to Ohen and inquires as to attending as well. Ohan looks on in amusement. Sid ??? -------------
Zanderallen feels a poke in the ribs and recognizes Pepper's sharp elbow. She then takes 1 step away from him. Sense Motive 5 Highlight to display spoiler: {obviously she is not happy about something he said.} Perception 20 (listening)Highlight to display spoiler: {You hear Pepper mutter "full moons wasted on a fool".}
Brother Carlo claps his hands in joy. "I'm am most pleased. As you know the moons will rise about 1 hour after sunset." He turns to Zanderallen and Micah, "I'm not sure about participating in the moon greeting ceremony. I'm sure Druid Cathbad, would allow one's such as yourself to observe. I can also guarantee that we can find someway for you to participate in the events of Yggdrasil Day. Granted we are a fairly small grove and don't have much in the way of festivities..." He looks at everyone and you have the sense of puppy eyes looking up at you.
Knowledge Religion 25Highlight to display spoiler: {Yggdrasil has always played an important role in the lives druids. It symbolizes that we all came from nature and we will all return to it one day, it is important is to protect the world we live in, the trees are the lungs of our world it is the shelter that gives us peace and protection, it is the spiritual path of our ancestors, and so as nature gives us these gifts, in turn we must honor it, and because a gift calls for a gift, in turn we must give to nature our protection, our care and our respect. In this day you should plant a tree, you should become the protector of those who have given you shelter, and fight against the evils that are corrupting our natural world.}
-------- Meanwhile back at the Split Arrow Sid has returned from checking on the garbage business. All is going well. It seems they are taking items that can be composted and transporting them to Cutter. With the lumber industry falling off due to the lizard folk, the people of Cutter are instead creating viable farmland outside the forest. Elly gives him a sly look. "You know Sid, this Friday there is a double full moon."
Knowledge Local 15 Highlight to display spoiler: {The rare double full moon is also celebrated by those in love, or close to it, such things as midnight picnics where the moons can be seen are a sure sign of devotion between two people. Becoming engaged at such a time is prestigious. Getting MARRIED at such a time is a good omen of happiness and prosperity.}
-------------------- mean meanwhile Stohp has frequented many stops. However, she is unable to find any beast folk. They all left for their new town, there are no more in the city. Tanglefoot is pleased to see Stohp and talks shop with her for some time. He's very interested in how best to deal with diplomatic things and how the lizard folk goods are doing in the city. He's not sure the information he gets isn't biased since he has to ask about things himself.
Stohp (Mitch) HP: 82/82 hp AC: 25/15/21 CMB: +13 (17 Grapple, 15 Trip, 17 Disarm) CMD: 22 (+4 vs grapple,+2 disarm) Thursday February 4th, 2021 5:31:53 AM
Stohp is happy to talk about diplomacy and trade. She frequents many taverns and talks to many merchants so is probably able to help him get an idea of how Lizardfolk goods are doing in the city.
Stock (JonM) HP: 125/125; AC: 25/22/16; Per: +17; Surv: +14; SM: +9 d20+17=34 ; Thursday February 4th, 2021 9:20:17 AM
Stock snickers when he senses the annoyance in Pepper. He is genuinely confused and fairly unconcerned with what is going on with the Druid though. He sighs and fishes around in a pouch, eventually pulling out a narrow gray stone that he found after the tsunami narrowly missed the Float.
"Hey Carl, apologies for speaking directly but I'm not as clever as the rest of these heroes. I think we're all happy to attend and take in some culture but was there anything else you think you'll need? We're always willing to help."
========== Perception Plates 34
Bartomus(Rod) HP: 76/76 AC 19; CMD 20 Melee +8;Perc+12;Heal+9 d8+1 d20=2 ; Thursday February 4th, 2021 9:42:12 AM
Bartomus knew that the full moon was important, but being associated with Endymon and having come into his tradition in something more akin to the planes, his understanding of the day celebration was lost on him. He smiled and nodded at the invitation and looked at his fellow Shields. "We can do that, be part of both if you would be kind enough to let us know when we need to be where, we'll be there. Truly blessed with the invitation. What do we need to bring or where for the moon greeting ceremony and also for the day long events? You honored us with the invite, we need to repay the kindness with ensuring we are not a burden to you, your grove, your members."
KnowRel = 2 (ok, getting these out of the way now, right?)
Delia (Hannah) HP: 87/87; AC 23/16/18; CMD 29 Thursday February 4th, 2021 5:00:15 PM
Delia looks in confusion at Pepper's sudden change from doe-eyed to angry, completely distracted from Brother Carlo and his holidays (and not being trained in knowledge local or religion) and asks, perhaps inappropriately, "Pepper, why are you mad at Zanderallen? And what does it have to do with full moons? Do you know something bad about this ceremony?"
============================= Auto succeed on both Pepper-related Perceptions with +23 in urban and vs humans
Micah bows in acknowledgement of Carlos' offer while explaining., [b]"We are not looking to be entertained, rather to observe, and be part of, a venerable tradition. Whatever is appropriate and not an undue burden as you determine will be wonderful. "
Not only does he notice Pepper's reaction, but Stock's and Delia's as well. He struggles to keep his face expressionless, but he is unable to completely suppress a slight twinkle in his eyes.
========== Autosucceed sense motive on Pepper. Know religion 19
Ohen Kuldrven (Jacob H) HP: 83/83, AC: 22 (14T, 20 I, 20F, 19CMD); Permanent: Arcane Sight(120'), Darkvision(60'), See Invis, Perc +15 d20+15=21 ; d20+2=6 ; Thursday February 4th, 2021 5:38:13 PM
Ohen merely watches and listens to what is happening, letting the people who know the customs and people involved do the talking. He notes the annoyance and muttered sentence of Pepper and waits with interest how she responds to Delia.
Zanderallen (Zachary H) 119/119 AC: 29 T: 13 FF: 28 CMD: 24 d20+7=10 ; d20+10=16 ; d20+10=19 ; Thursday February 4th, 2021 6:10:13 PM
Zanderallen, completely perplexed at Pepper's reaction and getting worn a little with all the side remarks being made at his expense, takes a couple deep breathes to steady himself. He thought that Pepper had been interested in seeing the ritual. What other possible thing would be going on? As some one born and raised in the Float there weren't any local traditions he was aware of. Being diplomatic enough to recognize the start of a potential incident when he sees it, Zanderallen excuses himself from Brother Carlo and says quietly to Pepper, "Maybe we can move this conversation outside, away from the peanut gallery. Once away from the prying ears of his party members he asks, "I thought you were interested in the ritual, if you had plans I don't have to go. I was mostly just being polite and it seems they're not used to outsiders joining anyway." --------------- Auto Succeed Sense Motive +17 Perception 10 fails Know(Religion) 16 fails Second +10 roll was accidental double click
Sid(Andrew) HP: 66/66; AC: 19/16/14; CMB: 7; CMD: 22 Speed: 30ft, Swim 30ft.) Thursday February 4th, 2021 6:58:34 PM
Sid raises and takes Elly in his arms, "Would you truly like to picnic under the Moons?" he asks staring deeply into her eyes. "If you're ready, I'm ready to pledge my love to as..." and I will not bore you with the rest of the scene for Sid then spends the next two hours reciting a short Elven poem of love and devotion to her. One he wove threads and stories from older works into his own web of words. They close early and let the apprentice cleanup.
DM Robert - "And what does it have to do with full moons?" (wouldn't you like to know) Thursday February 4th, 2021 8:24:27 PM
Stohp scopes out the local merchants. Stock mispronounces the brother's name but offers to help. Bartomus offers to help in both ceremonies. Delia bluntly make a statement. Micah also offers to help Brother Carlo. Ohen seems amused at everything. Zanderallen is getting frayed around the edges and wants to get Pepper out of the room. Sid expresses his love for his fiance. ----------------------
Brother Carlo bows. "Your offers are beyond my wildest dreams. As you know we maintain a townhouse on the Merchant level. However, we also maintain all the parks, benches, and such, especially on the gold and upper levels. This year for Yggdrasil Day, we were wanting to plant ivy at the base of the cornerstone towers on the Fence level. And of course there are numerous chores of pruning the trees in the Gold level, as those trees are certainly getting tall enough to touch the ceiling. So there are a variety of chores we do that go into celebration of Yggdrasil Day. We also have a sort of mass at the townhouse at dawn and high noon. Then of course we will be doing the welcoming ceremony of the double full moons. We have secured permission to conduct that on the Open Air level in the northwest park." He bows again. "Well I must be off, many more things to do." He politely exits.
Brother Carlo has certainly given you a lot of options on how you may want to participate. Your characters have 2 days to prepare for how they wish to participate. In reality I'd like to get to the ceremony Saturday (Hannah and Jacob, there is usually not a post on Friday night but one on Saturday morning). However, if you want a little extra time to work out any logistics I can wait a day. -------------------------- Stohp, please make a Profession Merchant roll, or a Diplomacy check, or a craft-woodworking check. Your results will determine what you find out. Also I assume you will join back up with the group at some point so you can join in the ceremony if you wish.
------------------------------------- Meanwhile out side the Head Quarters. Zanderallen has managed to get Pepper out quickly but not really unnoticed. However he doesn't seem to care about the others seeing what he does, he's more concerned with having a private conversation. However, since I'm slightly evil, any player that wants to mosey over to the door or peep out a window or what not... Pepper rounds on Zanderallen and he can see tears in her eyes. "Oh Zander sometimes you're too noble for your own good. The druids have always had their ceremony, and before you and the Shields got here they were fairly important because it was seen as the only way to appease the Crying Wood from launching attacks across the water. But sine the great Wave (game wise I'd say it's been over a year now) the people aren't exactly following the druids actions as they once did. If you and the Shields were to participate in Yggdrasil Day it would be a great boon for the druids. You have to know that many people look up to you all now. Not just wanting to know about your adventures and such but what you say, do and support on the Float. But a double full moon, well it doesn't happen often, which is to say maybe once every 3 to 5 years. It's seen as a special occasion to more than just druids. Don't you know that? I just sometimes resent having to share time with you with everyone else. I thought maybe we could have a moonlight picnic. I guess we still could after the ceremony if it going to take place an hour after sunset." She seems to deflate a little after her big speech. ---------------------- Sid and Elly seem contented. Again I'm going to assume that sometime over the next '2' days Sid will drop by the HQ, unless he feels the need to get some other plans underway.
Bartomus(Rod) HP: 76/76 AC 19; CMD 20 Melee +8;Perc+12;Heal+9 d8+1 Friday February 5th, 2021 12:35:37 AM "So, let me get this straight. We help prune trees, spruce up the parks, and plant ivy. Alright, that seems rather easy. I wonder if we should offer a tree for planting down on this level? I mean this where we have always had our support, right?" Bartomus seemed to be reminding himself of what to expect. "Then a ceremony at dawn and at high noon. So, do we meet up at the townhouse before dawn? Work till mid-morning and assemble at their headquarters before noon? Maybe we should bring some tools?"
When he heard Zander mention "peanut gallery," he looked about and asked aloud, "wait, wait the nuts have admirers?"
Bartomus spent the next day making sure the spider silk clothes were available for wearing for the ceremony at high noon. He asked one of the errand boys that they had employed in the past to run a message to Brother Carlo a note asking about if there might be a way to incorporate the planting of an oak tree, if one could be found, on their level of the Float in honor of the help they had received in their last mission from Eberyon. He also went about trying to find finely woven robes for the entire party for the pre-dawn ceremony as they wouldn't want to be seen just in their work clothes.
Should I acquire the robes from the catacombs?
Stohp (Mitch) HP: 82/82 hp AC: 25/15/21 CMB: +13 (17 Grapple, 15 Trip, 17 Disarm) CMD: 22 (+4 vs grapple,+2 disarm) d20+9=24 ; Friday February 5th, 2021 7:11:31 AM
Stohp is able to provide some information (24 diplomacy) to the curious Lizardfolk. As she talks she finished up her shopping and gets ready to head back and rejoin the others.
Stock (JonM) HP: 125/125; AC: 25/22/16; Per: +17; Surv: +14; SM: +9 Friday February 5th, 2021 10:48:18 AM "Yeah, maybe I'll climb some trees and "prune" them. I have a pretty good axe for that."
Stock spends the rest of the day sharpening and then polishing his handaxe.
Micah bows at the departing druid, then sends a concerned glance in the direction of the departing paladin. Yet another situation where smiting evil will not solve the problem, he thinks. He shakes his head and returns back to study the vast collection of creature information.
Delia (Hannah) HP: 87/87; AC 23/16/18; CMD 29 Friday February 5th, 2021 10:48:13 PM
Delia leans over to the nearest person (Ohen maybe? Not sure where everyone is) and whispers, "I did the thing where I observed a thing out loud that normal people don't again, didn't I?" She looks after Zanderallen and Pepper with slightly sheepish concern, then shakes her head a little and continues in a normal tone, "This ceremony sounds fascinating though, and I'm game to help with anything. Maybe help Stock direct his pruning efforts." she says with a slight smile in the dwarf's direction.
Ohen Kuldrven (Jacob H) HP: 83/83, AC: 22 (14T, 20 I, 20F, 19CMD); Permanent: Arcane Sight(120'), Darkvision(60'), See Invis, Perc +15 d20+24=27 ; Saturday February 6th, 2021 2:40:38 AM
To Delia: "Yes, a bit too blunt perhaps. Do you know anything about all these ceremonies? I'll admit I'm a little lost." Once Zanderallen eventually returns: "I hope all is well with the lady, you still owe me some of Domi's training, whatever that entails..." To Stock later in the day when wandering around: "How is the bed coming? I hope you have made it resistant to Dragonfire, not just any nonflammable material will do. I hear that Crescellium is a good flame retardant. The halflings of Crescent Valley use it to treat their houses from the fire giants. Perhaps you could use that?" ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ I was thinking Crescellium is the Wold name for Borax, unless it's not actually real, in which case Ohen got a 27 bluff to make it up, I don't care either way.
Zanderallen (Zachary H) 119/119 AC: 29 T: 13 FF: 28 CMD: 24 Saturday February 6th, 2021 4:34:54 AM
Sorry that he made a scene Zanderallen deflates as well, but he smiles as an idea comes to mind, "Dear Pepper, it seems on the night of the full moons my early evening is taken by silly Shield business. But I was thinking I sneak away early and we have a picnic. What do you say?" Zanderallen finishes his question with a cheeky grin on his face at the thought of stealing her idea.
He spends the next two days preparing for the ceremony and picnic.
DM Robert - "This ceremony sounds fascinating..." Saturday February 6th, 2021 10:20:25 AM
Bartomus is all for the ceremony. Stohp completes her investigations. Stock is up for pruning. Micah feels the call to study. Delia is game to work. Ohen seems convincing about needing a fireproof bed, what about the room itself? Zanderallen makes some plans. Sid???? ________________
Pepper is appeased.
Days pass as the festivities near. Interestingly there are no parks on the fence level. Bartomus's request to plant a tree on this level is met by the fact that plants need natural sunlight to flourish. Perhaps that is why there are no parks on this level. However, an option could be to build a planter that overhangs or stretches out from the fence that surrounds the Fence level. Since the Shield HQ does stand next to one of the fence railings such an undertaking could be done here.
Craft - Carpentry 20 to build an attachment to to the railing/floor structure that would be able to support a small tree. (One that's not going to grow more than 20 feet tall, root systems you know) (Aid another allowed). For every 10 points over the craft target I will allow a size category up, ie at 30 a 40 foot tree, at 40 a 60 foot tree.
Micah finishes his studying and the big day arrives. Somehow the fact that the Shields are going to be involved in the Yggdrasil Day seems to have gotten around. By the time of the noon ceremony the crowd at the druids townhouse is more than triple what it was during the dawn ceremony.
Anyone wanting to help with the plant work please make an aid another (10) check on Strength, OR Dexterity, OR Knowledge Nature. IF you want to Impress the druids and have them allow you to proceed without supervision, then you'll need to make a Knowledge Nature 20.
The day proceeds.
The Full Moon greeting ceremony will take place 1 hour after sunset. (so about 8 / 8:30). The ceremony itself is more of a druid thing. The general public can view it but by then most will either be returning to home or making plans for a romantic evening under the double full moon. To wit, then, Are you going to observe the ceremony, what are your plans post ceremony?
Sid(Andrew) HP: 66/66; AC: 19/16/14; CMB: 7; CMD: 22 Speed: 30ft, Swim 30ft.) d20+5=21 ; d20+1=15 ; Saturday February 6th, 2021 10:07:17 PM
Sid checks in with the team and is a bundle of nerves and excitement. Sid and Elly decide to help with the planting of the tree, weaving Elven symbols of love, peace, and devotion into the event. They sing as they plant, thinking of the Culverwood, a home so far, and thinking of their lives here. They plan to have a more private ceremony under the Double Moon.
Dex(Aid Another): 21 Perform(Singing/Rituals): 25(Spending a Hero Point to add 10 to the roll.)
Bartomus(Rod) HP: 76/76 AC 19; CMD 20 Melee +8;Perc+12;Heal+9 d8+1 d20+8=15 ; d20+1=13 ; d20+5=6 ; Sunday February 7th, 2021 1:58:27 PM
Learning a bit more about the Float's construction and the fact that any tree planting would need to be something done on the outside of the Float. Additional advice was given and he looked at the rail that could be the source for such an endeavor. He went and purchased beams and lumber for the task making a point to look for lumber from the nearby settlement wanting to make sure to support that which he also encouraged. He went back to their headquarters and shared what he had learned and the purchase he had made. "So, question anyone want to lend me a hand with building a bit of an outdoor flourish and acknowledgement of Eberyon's assistance in the menagerie?"
When it arrived on site at the headquarters, he looked about the items and also, those about. If there are a few of you who could lend a hand, I would be willing to pay for it. Would like to have a tree growing on our level that we can see out the windows and at least enjoy the sight of green. Eberyon helped us and so an oak planted in recognition of the help is the goal. Oh, I can also pay for the day of labor too."
He started where he could and looked about hoping there would be a bit more help because the thought of a 1400 pound taur hanging out the window of the Float and trying to attach a planter to a rail was a bit daunting. Yet, he put his effort in it, to the best of his ability.
When work was completed or the need for some skilled labor became obvious, he focused his attentions on the next days ceremony. He put on his work clothes after his meditation and headed off to help with the pruning of the trees as invited.
He helped where he could, but trees were not as common to where he lived before the Float and so his lack of knowledge showed. Many times he had to be reminded that trees were not grasses or shrubs, so he busied himself with the lifting, cutting and such.
When the work was done, the meal shared, and the need to head home to ready the ceremony, Bartomus rushed off. He grabbed his finer court attire from the Drow and stopped at a bathhouse and got himself cleaned up. He returned to the headquarters early enough to see who else wanted to go to the double moon ceremony higher up, but expected that Zander might be engaged elsewhere.
"I wonder, if after the ceremony, if there is a place to just observe the stars and such? I'd be willing to enjoy some fine honey mead and some treats to eat while watching the heavens for just a bit."
Craft 15; Strength Aid Another - 13; KnowNature 1+5 - Bart does not know anything about pruning any tree anywhere.
Delia (Hannah) HP: 87/87; AC 23/16/18; CMD 29 d20=18 ; d20=2 ; Sunday February 7th, 2021 4:48:12 PM
To Ohen, "No, I don't know what these ceremonies are. Most of the years I spent on the Float weren't ones where I had time to celebrate holidays."
To Zanderallen, [b]"Sorry if I made you and Pepper uncomfortable earlier. I'm not always good at..." She gestures somewhat helplessly at everyone around the room, "...people."
To Bartomus, Delia immediately volunteers to help, "While I don't have much experience with large scale carpentry, I've worked with wood for years in making bows and know most of the tools. I would also be very happy to see a little more green in the city. So would Hawky!"(Aid Other: Success)
Delia is able to help the Druids in whatever pruning tasks they need. (Knowledge (Nature) - Aid Other: Success) One day she would get tired of talking to people and cast Speak with Plants to have a nice chat with some of the trees and shrubs.
When it comes times for the ceremony, Delia will make sure there's no obvious dirt on her face and go with the rest of the Shields to observe the ceremony. Afterwards, she plans to join Bartomus and any others who wish to go stargazing. "If there is a place to watch the stars I would happily join you. It is good to be home, but... I miss clear skies and the quiet of night."
Stohp (Mitch) HP: 82/82 hp AC: 25/15/21 CMB: +13 (17 Grapple, 15 Trip, 17 Disarm) CMD: 22 (+4 vs grapple,+2 disarm) d20+14=22 ; Sunday February 7th, 2021 6:55:01 PM
Stohp is an experienced carpenter and takes the lead on the project (22 carpentry - if I can take 10 make it a 24). With the others help they should easily accomplish the project, possibly well enough to have an extra large tree.
Stock (JonM) HP: 125/125; AC: 25/22/16; Per: +17; Surv: +14; SM: +9 d20+4=19 ; Monday February 8th, 2021 9:16:29 AM
Hard work is just what Stock loves. He spends a day or two, literally in Stohp's shadow helping to build the platform of sorts. His work is a bit all over the place filled with moments of genious and also moments of bizarre choices that he quickly scraps and replaces with something more traditional.
Just when that project looks to be wrapping up, he hustles off to help with some of the plant work, tastefully (in his mind) pruning and shaping the shrubs. He finishes just in time and shows up to the ceremony covered in wood chips, twigs, dirt and leaves. Either he doesn't notice he's under dressed or he doesn't care.
======= Craft Carpentry Take 20 for 280 Strength 19 Follow up Nature Take 10 for a 20
Micah (John) HP: 90/90 AC: 27/12/27 CMD:20 Monday February 8th, 2021 11:58:30 AM
Micah is delighted by Bartomus' project. Noting that the experts have it well in hand, he helps by ensuring that the workers are well fed and hydrated during the project as well as handling any clean up and materials handling, finding the simple labor rewarding and satisfying.
At the ceremony itself, he is content to merely observe. Afterwards, assuming some others do so, he will content himself with returning back to their quarters.
Zanderallen (Zachary H) 119/119 AC: 29 T: 13 FF: 28 CMD: 24 d20+4=11 ; Monday February 8th, 2021 1:03:45 PM
Zanderallen responds to Ohen,"After the full moons I will gladly show whatever you desire. You seem like one who's mind is his most powerful weapon. Domi teaches strength of mind as well as body, I think there are some mind over body endurance exercises we might enjoy together."
When Delia comes to apologize he grins and bows slightly, "Think nothing of it. You are honest and that is good enough for me. Although at this rate you will soon be close friends with Stock."
He watches the tree planter project with much joy. He isn't able to contribute much other than encouragement but there is no lack of skill among other members and he feels the project is in good hands.
When the ceremony starts he joins, dressed in plain brown, a simple symbol of Domi emblazoned on his tunic. He does what followers of Domi do best, lending his strength to the tasks performed and letting those knowledgeable in nature craft lead the proceedings.
Having participating in the more public dawn and noon ceremonies he leaves the druids with blessing and thanks for the work they do and proceeds to ready himself for a night under the stars with Pepper. --------------- Aid another Str (11)
DM Robert - "If there is a place to watch the stars I would happily join you." Monday February 8th, 2021 8:16:14 PM
Sid helps out and sings a song. Bartomus helps out with the pruning and organizes building a platform to plant a tree. Delia helps with pruning and the building of an extension. Stock and Stohp delve into building the extension and take their time at it. Micah aids in totting water and food to the druids. Zanderallen aids in the pruning efforts. _______________ It looks like from your rolls you passed the skill mark of 30 so eventually a 40 foot tree will grow there. new HQ exterior Someone will need to update the HQ exterior picture with the one I edited above. Bartomus manages to secure a dwarf oak, about 1 year old to plant in the new area. Dwarf, as in it shouldn't grow past the 40 foot and need pruning.
The day goes well and in the end all that participate have the happy tiredness from a job well done. The whole Float seems to pull together in celebration. Whenever you stop by any of your patron's eatery's: The Giggling Ghost, Fatted Calf, and Brass Toad, you note that the places do not seem that filled with customers but the staff is jumping. It appears that Happy, Grokk, and Brassy have a lot of pickup orders to fill as people are moving about helping with the druids day, and of course a lot of people have placed picnic orders. While not everyone can secure a place in the parks on the Open Air level, space along the fence and even on the wharves is at a premium for the 'lesser' folk.
That evening the druids gather in the park on the open air level. You can see that many people have already started setting out blankets nearby. Knowledge local 20 or Knowledge Nobility 15. Highlight to display spoiler: {It doesn't appear that the nobility of the Float are in the park, they have their own private roofs to observe the full moons, or maybe they just don't care about the little things to appease the masses.} The druids gather in a circle and begin their ceremony. You can see the double full moons rising. As both become fully over the horizon the druids finish their ceremony. Turning Druid Cathbad, an elven female thanks Bartomus. "My thanks Brother. You and your companions have my gratitude for your efforts today. Perhaps you would call on us more frequently that just during times of celebration and duty. It would be good to hear of your travels in the woods," she waves her hand to the shores that once were the Crying Woods but now no longer threaten the Float.
Brother Carlo comes to where the rest of you stand, "Thank you, thank you." He makes an effort to shake each of your hands perhaps a bit over enthusiastically. "Please if you need anything from us let us know. But for now the day is done, tomorrow we begin our work in aiding the siege. He bows and walks away...
Please detail where and what your characters will be doing for the next few hours of the full moons. que tension music score.
Bartomus(Rod) HP: 76/76 AC 19; CMD 20 Melee +8;Perc+12;Heal+9 d8+1 d20+7=8 ; Tuesday February 9th, 2021 12:03:16 AM "I will make a point in the days ahead to visit and answer any questions you have about the woods and what we found therein" Bartomus passed on to Cathbad when there was an opportunity to do so.
But it was the remark that Brother Carlo said that had him a bit confused and he turned to the others, "he said something about a siege, anyone know what he is talking about?"
He eventually wandered about the Open Air level and found a part that would allow him to sit and look at the heavens and see the stars. After a while, he would head back down to their level and take a bit of time sitting out where their oak tree was planted.
Knowledge Local - 1+7, good lord
Stohp (Mitch) HP: 82/82 hp AC: 25/15/21 CMB: +13 (17 Grapple, 15 Trip, 17 Disarm) CMD: 22 (+4 vs grapple,+2 disarm) Tuesday February 9th, 2021 6:28:17 AM
Having spend the day hard at work Stohp enjoys a quiet meal before going to bed early.
Stock (JonM) HP: 125/125; AC: 25/22/16; Per: +17; Surv: +14; SM: +9 d20+3=14 ; Tuesday February 9th, 2021 9:13:17 AM "Yeah...siege? Does that word have a specific druid-y meaning?
Yo - Carl-o! Sorry to bug you but did you say siege? I'm not a man of letters - can you explain that to me?"
===== Local 14
Micah (John) HP: 90/90 AC: 27/12/27 CMD:20 Tuesday February 9th, 2021 11:13:58 AM
Micah smiles at the dwarf's question, judging his abrupt tongue to be appropriate for once.
Unless Carlo dissuades him, Micah will assume the worse and rush back to the quarters to don his armor. He realizes he may be overreacting and then he reminds himself of the recent past.
Zanderallen (Zachary H) 119/119 AC: 29 T: 13 FF: 28 CMD: 24 d20+6=23 ; Tuesday February 9th, 2021 12:46:29 PM
As the ceremony ends Zander is about to sneak away but is unable to avoid Brother Carlos. The man's departing words send a shiver down his spine. As Stock ask what Carlos means he is already reaching into his bag of holding, fumbling around with his armor. He awaits Carlos' reply for his further course of action.
Sid(Andrew) HP: 66/66; AC: 19/16/14; CMB: 7; CMD: 22 Speed: 30ft, Swim 30ft.) d20+17=28 ; Tuesday February 9th, 2021 6:44:12 PM
Sid and Elly enjoy themselves in the festivities. For once his arm is wrapped about hers, sometimes led, sometimes leading, and they plan to be away at the appropriate time for the appropriate Elven rituals. Hanging out with everyone he hears the word 'Siege' and tenses.
Delia (Hannah) HP: 87/87; AC 23/16/18; CMD 29 Tuesday February 9th, 2021 7:45:16 PM
Delia automatically goes into a high alert mode at the word "siege." She would pause by Stock, waiting for Brother Carlo's answer. If it is explained as benign, she would go with Bartomus to star gaze, if not she would ready herself for whatever conflict lay ahead.
DM Robert - " I'm not a man of letters-." Tuesday February 9th, 2021 8:18:07 PM
Bartomus talks with Cathbad but whips around at Carlo's cryptic remark. Stohp heads home to bed. Stock is for heading home but demands some answers from Carlo. Micah prepares to rush home to put on some armor. Zanderallen starts digging in his bag. Sid tenses. Ohen ????? Delia is apprehensive. ______________
Both Carlo and Cathbad respond. "I thought you knew. Up on the plateau where the Crying Woods still exists is the elven city of Elvenguard. It is a community of elves who avoided the tyranny of the green dragons that used to control parts of the Crying woods. Well control is perhaps too powerful a word. Let us say somehow co-existed with the Crying Wood. Periodically a member of the Elvenguard is chosen to merge with the Crying Woods, thereafter acting as a controlling/moderating force on the Woods. However, the last "Entwining" was interrupted by a group of Dark Druids, and the Crimson Shield hero Florin merged/sacrificed himself instead. It seems now that the Crying Wood has concentrated its power the merging is less effective. We have been supplying scrolls and potions to aid the elves in defending their homes from the strange plant creatures the Crying Wood keeps sending at them."This is a plot hook for something down the road that Mike and I have been talking about. Note it. Perchance look into it in some downtime between adventures. YOU acquired a great many books from that crazy lich.
AND NOW ON WITH THE ACTUAL MODULE.
Once things are explained everyone settles down. Zanderallen notes a pain in his left arm, near the elbow. He looks and its Pepper gripping his arm. He remembers he promised her a moonlight picnic.
Bartomus nods in understanding now. This fight is an ongoing thing and the elves seem to have at least a stalemate with the forest.
Stohp stumbles into her bed and sleeps a well deserved sleep from all her work today.
Micah now knows that there is no danger and thus should be content to return home.
Stock is somewhat disappointing that a fight is not imminent, that's a fancy word for him he was hoping he'd get to use it.
Sid is now able to go off with Elly and perform their ritual, surprising that he didn't ask their resident priest or druid to officiate in some way, but elves are funny.
A couple hours pass, it is not yet midnight. Gazing up at the moons and the stars the heroes (those awake and out) are astounded when the unexpected occurs, the stars seem to blink or wink out and the moons dim. The occurrence is quick, less than a second, if you hadn't been watching you may have missed it, but in that same instance each of you experiences...
Those outside/awake please roll a d4 and consult the result below. 1 Highlight to display spoiler: {The air becomes cold and you think you see your breath, then all is normal again.} 2 Highlight to display spoiler: {You feel dizzy and it seem up is the left and down is up, then all is normal again.} 3 Highlight to display spoiler: {Your sight goes weird and all you see are auras coming off of all living things, then all is normal again.} 4 Highlight to display spoiler: {Please make a fortitude check of 20 or pass out.}
Those of you asleep Highlight to display spoiler: {experience fitful dreams of green dragons ruling the world.}
Ohen only Highlight to display spoiler: {You momentarily feel empowered as if the blood of your 'dragon' ancestor was pounding inside of you and trying to get out.}
Anyone Knowledge Arcane or Religion 30. Highlight to display spoiler: {This is surely a sign or portent that something monumental has occurred.}I will allow aid another if needed, or take 20
Fill free to allow time to pass or not pass for your post, ie, post from the event or post to the morning after with everyone together, or both.
Ohen Kuldrven (Jacob H) HP: 83/83, AC: 22 (14T, 20 I, 20F, 19CMD); Permanent: Arcane Sight(120'), Darkvision(60'), See Invis, Perc +15 Tuesday February 9th, 2021 8:23:16 PM
Ohen was being a proper tourist, just taking in the sights, until the strange mention of a siege and everyone's reaction. He immediately pulls his arms towards his body, fists clenched, casting Mage Armor, and then thrusts out his left hand, palm outward, activating his force shield ring.
Ohen Kuldrven (Jacob H) HP: 83/83, AC: 22 (14T, 20 I, 20F, 19CMD); Permanent: Arcane Sight(120'), Darkvision(60'), See Invis, Perc +15 d4=3 ; d20+15=17 ; Wednesday February 10th, 2021 1:18:58 AM
Ohen puts away his shield, wondering what the Silver Shields have gone through recently to make them so jumpy, and enjoys the rest of the night.
When the stars go out, his eyes dart around at everyone nearby momentarily, then he holds his head and grimaces as claws appear on his hands, then he coughs a puff of smoke.
"Hmm" he mutters to himself, "maybe my room does need to be fireproof."
Stock (JonM) HP: 125/125; AC: 25/22/16; Per: +17; Surv: +14; SM: +9 Wednesday February 10th, 2021 9:49:13 AM
Stock heads straight home from the ceremony and heads to bed early so that he can be up early in the morning as is his wont.
When he awakes he says, "Weird. I totally could have taken that dragon though. Some dreams are just dreams." He gets up and grabs some of the reading material taken from the extraplanar zoo and flips through the details, learning about some of the more vicious fauna in the Wold.
Bartomus(Rod) HP: 76/76 AC 19; CMD 20 Melee +8;Perc+12;Heal+9 d8+1 d4=1 ; Wednesday February 10th, 2021 10:20:52 AM
Bartomus enjoyed the opportunity to just stare at the stars. While the double full moon made the stars a much fainter, the opportunity to do so in the Open Space of the Float and then to continue to do so from their successful deck filled with a sense of wonder. It also reminded him of his former life that seemed in so many ways to be more dreamlike with the wandering of the far off grassed plains with his adopted family and their larger tribe.
As he watched the heavens, something odd happened. There was a sudden instance where it got so cold he thought he saw his own breath, but then passed. He thought he imagined it all, but there were goosebumps for a moment on his hands and arms. Where he was sitting, on the newly added deck, he didn't see anyone to ask if he had imagined that or not.
Micah (John) HP: 90/90 AC: 27/12/27 CMD:20 Wednesday February 10th, 2021 10:59:08 AM
Relieved that there is no immediate threat, but disturbed by Carlo's warning nonetheless, Micah spends some time idly watching the moons and the revelers before returning to his quarters. Not too much later, he retires to his bed, falling asleep speaking prayers to Domi.
He is standing on a hillside looking down into a valley below. A long line of people, dressed in rags, drudge slowly from the entrance of a mine, carrying chunks of ore to nearby carts. Suddenly, a massive dragon, its hide a glistening brilliant green, glides low overhead, its baleful eye sweeping dispassionately over the toiling hoard. No one runs. No one seeks cover. The most common reaction is a submissive bowing of their heads. One dirt and tear stained face raises to look toward Micah. He realizes it is his sister, Jenna.
Micah jolts awake with a start. Heart racing and covered in a light sweat, he wants to dismiss it as a fancy prompted by the druids warning, but he knows deep down it is more than that. He had been shown an image of a Wold where dragons rule and the noble races are their slaves. He woefully shakes his head. This was no mere fancy. It had all the hallmarks of a sign or portent.
He sleeps poorly the rest of the night and rises to his morning prayers even earlier than usual. Once finished with those, and feeling a bit restored by them, he descends to the common room to share what he experienced with the other Shields.
============= Know Religion Take 20 for a 37 Micah shares his dream and his conclusion about it being a portent with the others.
Zanderallen (Zachary H) 119/119 AC: 29 T: 13 FF: 28 CMD: 24 d4=1 ; Wednesday February 10th, 2021 3:39:57 PM
Assured that the siege is no something of imminent threat to the float Zanderallen visibly relaxes and disappears into the park with Pepper. Somewhat distracted Zander almost misses the stars winking out. He gasps and holds Pepper close as he feels a chill. "What was that?" He talks through similar occurrences in the past and can only conclude that something of great importance just happened. Feeling a little apprehensive but thoroughly enjoying his evening he takes Pepper back home some time well after midnight. He then returns to HQ to get a few hours rest before rising with the others, anxious to discuss the night's event with them. He listens to the tales of the dreams and shares what he saw outside, "This omen raises a deep unease within me. The heavens do not move for small things." He turns to Ohen wondering if the man's talents gave him any additional insights. ------------------ Know Religion +10, taking 20 gives 30
DM Robert - " What was that?" Wednesday February 10th, 2021 8:00:08 PM
Ohen feels strangely for a heartbeat or two. Stock dreams. Bartomus is chilled. Micah has a vivid dream and earns a hero point for creative exposition. Zanderallen is chilled and thinks this could be an omen of something big. Sid? Stohp? Delia? _______________________
The next morning you are all back at the headquarters gathered round your table having a light repast of scones and coffee. As you are settling down and talking about what not, there comes a knocking, knocking on your chamber door.
Opening the door you find Happy standing there. He has a basket tucked under one arm. "Hi everyone. Hope you were already up. I thought I'd bring some nibblets by for you." He goes over to the table and takes out a steamer dish, setting it on the table you smell bacon and see the steam still rising from it. Then he reaches into the basket and lifts out another steamer tray, this one turns out to have fresh bisquits, also hot. He then goes into the basket again (you suspect that the basket has some sort of magical properties) and takes out a toureen containing jars of butter, honey, and blackberry jam. Then he goes into the basket again, the table is starting to get full, and brings out a pot, and when he lifts the lid you can see that it holds a white gravy and your noses detect the smell of cooked sausage.
He stands back from the table. "Say while I'm here. Did any of you happen to notice what happened last night? What do you think about it? Do you have any ideas? Seems strange is all, and I thought you being who you are, you might have some ideas or conclusions that you would want to share."
So you can talk before Happy gets there, talk to Happy when he's there, do both, do neither, etc. Share what you experienced, contemplate means to gather information both magical and mundane, etc.
DM Robert - " What was that?" Wednesday February 10th, 2021 8:06:36 PM
PS, Ohen and Delia, Happy is the owner of the Giggling Ghost tavern. He is also one of the three patrons that got the Shields started.
Delia (Hannah) HP: 87/87; AC 23/16/18; CMD 29 d4=2 ; Wednesday February 10th, 2021 8:36:45 PM
Apparently the extreme vertigo that Delia experienced while watching the stars caused her to forget to say anything.
Delia jerked violently, throwing out her hands to steady herself as the world listed around her. She would look at Ohen in startled concern when the claws appeared on his hand and, realizing that everyone just experienced something foreboding, she would ask what happened to everyone. She would also describe how her sense of up and down went crazy for a few moments.
Sid(Andrew) HP: 66/66; AC: 19/16/14; CMB: 7; CMD: 22 Speed: 30ft, Swim 30ft.) d4=3 ; Wednesday February 10th, 2021 8:37:17 PM
Sid sees the beauty aura of his love as they whisper their vows to each other and make promises and oaths eternal. They sing and dance the night away under the moons in love and happiness.
Stohp (Mitch) HP: 82/82 hp AC: 25/15/21 CMB: +13 (17 Grapple, 15 Trip, 17 Disarm) CMD: 22 (+4 vs grapple,+2 disarm) Wednesday February 10th, 2021 10:28:53 PM
Stohp wakes up without having really noticed anything. Sure weird dreams but dreams are weird. She's had way weirder. So she takes her time getting up and has to be caught up by the others on what's going on.
Stohp (Mitch) HP: 82/82 hp AC: 25/15/21 CMB: +13 (17 Grapple, 15 Trip, 17 Disarm) CMD: 22 (+4 vs grapple,+2 disarm) d20+17=21 ; Thursday February 11th, 2021 7:15:49 AM
Now caught up Stohp considers the events. "If you guys say it's prophetic I believe you but what is it hinting at?" She tries to remember any local legends or history involving green dragons or anything else seemingly relevant (knowledge: local 21). "We might have to go do some research to figure out what it all might mean. I can hit up the WLA after breakfast."
Stock (JonM) HP: 125/125; AC: 25/22/16; Per: +17; Surv: +14; SM: +9 Thursday February 11th, 2021 9:02:47 AM "Yeah, I'll go with Stohp. It's been a while since I've been to the guild. Bart - maybe it's worthwhile checking in with the druids to see if they have any ideas.
There's also that library that Dorbin used to always go to...Are any of you guys members there? I'm not." He says this last bit as if it might surprise somebody.
To Happy he says, "There's a few stories going around today. Micah and I had dreams of green dragons. I told him I could have taken mine on but nobody seems to believe me. Also Z said something about needing to dress warmer.
What's the take on the street this morning?"
Bartomus(Rod) HP: 76/76 AC 19; CMD 20 Melee +8;Perc+12;Heal+9 d8+1 Thursday February 11th, 2021 10:14:14 AM
Bartomus slept rather soundly, probably all of the fresh air he told himself as he dressed and headed down the stairs. Others had started to gather about Happy who apparently had brought them breakfast.
"Good morning everyone and good to see you Happy." He found a mug and then worked his way to picking out some of the delights that were laid out on their table. He listened and ate.
"All I can add about last night was the sudden change in temperature for just a mere moment last night. Was out on the new deck, thanks everyone for helping with that indulgence, and it was just for a brief blink of an eye, then everything was normal." He tried to understand the dreams and all of the things being shared.
"Adventurer's guild, sure, we could go there, we are looking for what Green Dragons - so where those creatures might be found, and we think it's some place cold? Sure, let me go see if there is someone there that might be able to suggest somethings. We also have all of those books."
Ohen Kuldrven (Jacob H) HP: 83/83, AC: 22 (14T, 20 I, 20F, 19CMD); Permanent: Arcane Sight(120'), Darkvision(60'), See Invis, Perc +15 Thursday February 11th, 2021 10:35:22 AM
To Zanderallen and Delia:
"Last night when the stars went out my vision went strange... stranger than normal I mean. It was as if I could see living auras, as well as arcane ones."
He then looks around as if to check that only Silver Shields and Happy are around.
"There's something else you should know. The blood of a dragon runs in me. Last night I felt it... calling to me... or trying to get out."
To Micah: "Are you alright Micah? You don't look well. What did you see last night? We could use the insight of a man of gods."
Zanderallen (Zachary H) 119/119 AC: 29 T: 13 FF: 28 CMD: 24 Thursday February 11th, 2021 11:51:33 AM
Zanderallen looks at Happy suspiciously as the taur brings them breakfast, while not uncommon it usually meant something was up. Then Happy asked about last night and Zander understood. It had unsettled the Fence and Happy had come to gather information to put minds at ease. While not in a position to answer the questions yet Zander does offer reassurance to Happy, "Happy this is amazing, you spoil us. We are just now putting our minds together and trying to work out what happened last night. It was some great sign, could be good or bad, but it does seem related to the dragons somehow. We are putting together some plans of investigation. The good people of the Fence have nothing to worry about."
He eyes Ohen with great interest at the revelation of the man's lineage. "I think I will head up and ask at the temples and see if the Paragon is available. As the high priest of Alemi and a former adventurer he might have some past experience or knowledge."
Micah listens to the others. Learning that others shared his dream about green dragons and that those still awake experience unusual sensations, he is further convinced this is some significant foreboding.
"That is the question," he answers Stohp. When she suggests checking in with the WLA and Stock offers to accompany her, he nods in agreement. After a moment's reflection, he finishes up his breakfast and tells the others, "I am going to get some supplies, then come back here to consult with Domi. "
He turns to Ohen and replies, "Perhaps insight of the gods themselves. I think casting a commune spell is appropriate. It requires special components to cast which is why I need to go out. Perhaps you can assist me in preparing the ritual?"
=========== Will need to buy 500 gp of incense and holy water for the commune spell. Micah gets 11 questions that can be answered with a yes or no. Let's coordinate the questions by email.
Sid(Andrew) HP: 66/66; AC: 19/16/14; CMB: 7; CMD: 22 Speed: 30ft, Swim 30ft.) Thursday February 11th, 2021 6:17:26 PM
After spending the night with Elly they go to HQ, still flush from the revels. "Honestly, that's the only reason I'm here right now," he says holding on to her tightly. "I thought I had seen the true beauty of... of... things," he says, blushing at the memory of the aura that covered Elly, "but I realized this morning that it was more widespread. Ooo, nibbles," he says going over to the board spread out by Happy and listening to everyone.
Delia (Hannah) HP: 87/87; AC 23/16/18; CMD 29 Thursday February 11th, 2021 6:45:44 PM
As her allies began to spring into motion to gather information about their strange visions, Delia would quietly say, "It looks like you were right Zanderallen. Life among the Shields is never boring enough to have to go out and find the problems that need fixing."
After Ohen describes his additional experience due to his lineage, Delia would pat him on the shoulder, "Don't worry. If this dragon blood of yours gets out of hand, we'll be sure to put you down." She then pauses and holds up a finger, "As in, stop you... nicely. not.. yeah. That came out wrong..." She pats his shoulder one more time and then tries to assist in brainstorming questions for Micah to ask Domi.
DM Robert - "Life among the Shields is never boring enough to have to go out and find the problems that need fixing." Thursday February 11th, 2021 8:31:10 PM
Stohp offers to go to the WLA to find some answers. Stock points out that the Sage's Guild might have some answers. Bartomus mentions the books (I believe you donated the vast majority of the Lich's library to the Sages guild, or rather sold them). Ohen reveals he has a dragon for an ancestor. Zanerallen suggest going to speak to Paragon Belkior. Micah announces he's going to get some supplies for a commune spell. Sid shows up with Elly, acting stranger than usual. Delia offers to 'fix' Ohen should the need arise. _____________
When Stock asks about the take on the street, Happy shrugs. "People are worried. It was something that none seem to remember having happened before. For it to have happened during the double full moon, well people are talking. Also apparently a lot of people had strange reactions when it occurred. Cold chills, loss of balance, passing out. It's not normal. That's why I'm here. People are looking up to you now. You've grown in many ways. People respect you for all the things you've been doing to keep the Float, even the Wold at large safe."
**
Those going to the WLA find the place rather busy. However when you arrive the attendant snaps upright in his seat. "Thank the makers you're here." He turns and shouts down the hallways, "They're here." Quickly you find yourself ushered into one of the larger training rooms. Everyone gathers and it's pretty clear you are the center of attention. You are quickly peppered with questions from those assembled. "Do you know what happened last night? Are we in danger? Are you taking any apprentices? I thought you'd be bigger."
It's pretty obvious as the resident heroes of the Float that many are now looking to you for answers because, well, you're somebody important and famous. Diplomacy check 20 to extract yourself gracefully.
Once you convince everyone that you are looking into things the crowd moves off. Inquiring about dragons, it is revealed that there was talk of dragons in the forest when the Float was first transported to this lake. At that time there was an adventuring group called the Crimson Shields Of Hope. They went on several adventures into the Crying Wood and did many glorious things. Rumor has it that they killed green dragon. But unfortunately they disbanded and went their separate ways.
** When Micah announces his intention to cast a Commune spell and needing to get supplies. Happy, puts his hand out forestalling any words. "You don't worry about costs, just tell them to bill the Giggling Ghost. I won't take no for an answer. Between Grokk, Brassy, and myself we'll make sure you have what it takes when you're doing magic to benefit the people of the Float." Sense Motive 10 Highlight to display spoiler: { Micah is pretty sure there's nothing he could do to convince Happy otherwise, it's clearly a decision that has been made and no argument is going to change it.}
Micah (and anyone that goes with him) ventures out to gather some supplies. It is a bit of a long process because he has to make several stops on the Merchant level to gather everything. At one point he is accosted by the head cleric of the Lost Souls' Mission (Shrine of Domi on the Merchant level). "Oh Sir, I don't know if you remember me but I'm the Abbot of the Lost Soul's Mission here. I was wondering, I've had many of the faithful asking about last night and what it could portend. Would you be able to address some words to the faithful. Perhaps you know something that could set their minds at ease? If possible could I arraign a meeting this afternoon?"
** Zanerallen (and anyone that goes with him) goes up to the Gold level to try and see Paragon Belkior. Alas when he arrives he is told that Lord Paragon Belkior is away. However, the servant offers to allow you to stay since he is only away on city business, council stuff I'm sure. The wait turns out to be longer than expected dragging into hours. At last Belkior arrives. "Ah, good, I was busy all day trying to assuage the guilty consciences of the city council. It's amazing what can set people off sometimes. If you're looking for answers I'm afraid I'm out. I have never experienced anything like that. While I'm pretty sure it's a portent of some kind, I can't say if it's for good or bad." (I'm going to go out on a limb here and assume you'll ask him about dragons.). "Well I will admit when I was part of the Crimson Shields of Hope we did battle with a great green dragon out in the forest. We'd caught him out of his lair and it was a pretty intense battle. We were never able to locate that famous dragon horde all dragons are supposed to have. Pity, while it would have been good for us it would probably also have helped in our relations with the Lizard Folk at the time. I believe that the dragon was seen as some sort of god by them."
Are there any specific questions you wish to ask?
**
I don't believe anyone explicitly said they were going to the Sage's Guild.
** Is there anyplace else you wish to go? Any specific questions you want to ask of anyone?
FYI, the Crimson Shields of Hope lasted to 14th level then from what I've been able to gather the group fell apart.
Stohp (Mitch) HP: 82/82 hp AC: 25/15/21 CMB: +13 (17 Grapple, 15 Trip, 17 Disarm) CMD: 22 (+4 vs grapple,+2 disarm) d20+9=27 ; d20+17=23 ; Friday February 12th, 2021 7:03:22 AM
Stohp is able to immediately take charge of the situation (diplomacy 27). "Nothing happened last night that puts anyone in danger. We're confident it's a portent of some future event, but we can't say what it is a sign of yet. Until we know the important thing is to stay calm and help others do the same. Rest assured that if this does prove a warning of dire events steps will be taken to prevent any harm to the city. It could still prove a portent of something positive or useful."
Once she's done speaking to the crowd Stohp asks to be shown to the records the WLA keeps for her research tasks (if I can take 20 then 37 to know: local to dig up leads, otherwise 23)
Stock (JonM) HP: 125/125; AC: 25/22/16; Per: +17; Surv: +14; SM: +9 d20+3=20 ; Friday February 12th, 2021 9:26:36 AM
Stock has an air of graciousness and magnanimity about him as he and Stohp are mobbed. "While we are only at the beginning of determining the meaning of this event, I will tell you that the Silver Shields remain this fine city's protectors..."
He then looks at the guy who made the crack about them being bigger and says, "I'm only bigger when Micah's around and she...[b]" he hooks a thumb in Stohp's direction, "[b]...is big enough I think."
======= Diplomacy 20 Take 10 on Knowledge Local or Diplomacy for 13 to aid Stohp in gathering information at the WLA...looking for any other experiences in the archives regarding similar phenomena
Zanderallen (Zachary H) 119/119 AC: 29 T: 13 FF: 28 CMD: 24 Friday February 12th, 2021 11:53:08 AM
Zander listens to the Paragon, interested in his tale about the dragon. "Well if his horde was still around I wonder if another dragon moved in? Could be bad news for the Crying Wood. Just one question, where did you battle this dragon? It might be worth looking into the area if we don't come up with anything else."
"Thank you for your time Paragon. I'll leave you to recover, soothing the guilty consciences of the council sounds like a monumental task. We'll keep digging and make sure we're on top of whatever is happening." Zander bows respectfully and leaves, heading back down to rejoin the rest of the Shields.
He has a moment of self-reflection realizing with a start that somewhere along the way people were now looking to them for answers. He shakes his head, offering up a brief prayer to Domi for courage to bear this weight. He returns to HQ to take part in Micah's divinations, aiding him in setting up what he can.
Ohen Kuldrven (Jacob H) HP: 83/83, AC: 22 (14T, 20 I, 20F, 19CMD); Permanent: Arcane Sight(120'), Darkvision(60'), See Invis, Perc +15 d20+1=14 ; Friday February 12th, 2021 12:01:04 PM
Ohen looks in absolute horror at Delia's comment, then shakes his head and turns to Micah.
"Of course, I will accompany you and aid however I can."
Ohen will follow Micah around as he gathers supplies on the Merchant level, and help him prepare the ritual.
Bartomus(Rod) HP: 76/76 AC 19; CMD 20 Melee +8;Perc+12;Heal+9 d8+1 d20=18 ; d20=18 ; Friday February 12th, 2021 1:56:45 PM
Bartomus made his way first to the druids circle that were kind enough to include the Shields and recalled that they once had a connection to the Forest. When in their presence, he shares what transpired with the Shield and asks for their insight into the portents and also into their circles' lire about cold places with green dragons. He makes a point of also leaving 200 gold pieces to be used by the circle to help with efforts to help the floats lower levels.
On his return to the headquarters, he made a stop at the Sages Guild inquiring about the same topics and particularly any idea if the Lich book trove might be with exploring.
At my office so don't have character sheet here, but made two bare d20 rolls for 18 and 18.
Delia (Hannah) HP: 87/87; AC 23/16/18; CMD 29 d20=1 ; Friday February 12th, 2021 4:19:44 PM
While Happy is there, Delia would ask if they know if this is a local phenomena or if this extended past their city? (I don't know how widespread the Shield's contacts are, so if we don't know, might be a thing to ask in the commune?)
She then will go talk to some of her old buddies in the town guard to see if the Float is in a panic and if they need any help calming people down (volunteering more well-known members of the Shield for diplomatic reassurance). She would also catch up on their lives and update them on hers, asking their opinion of the Shields.
When she returns to HQ, she helps with any ritual preparations.
=================== Sense Motive: 1+3: No read on Happy's offer to cover the spell
Micah (John) HP: 90/90 AC: 27/12/27 CMD:20 Saturday February 13th, 2021 9:25:47 AM
When Happy makes his offer to Micah, the priest immediately recognizes that attempting to dissuade their benefactor would be fruitless and potentially offensive, so he merely responds with a nod and, "Thank you."
***
When the Shrine Leader makes his request of Micah, it catches him by surprise, but only for a moment as he realizes, that to outside observers the Shields are making a name for themselves as the protectors of the city, especially on the lower levels. He bows respectfully, "Abbot, it would be an honor. Let me know the time and I will be here." After a moment's pause, he continues, "Meanwhile, remind the others that the unknown is to be faced rather than feared. These strange omens should be viewed as a source of hope, because they give us an opportunity to prepare. Though caution is always wise, there is no need for dread."
He finds paying with someone else's money a bit awkward at first, but quickly suppresses the feeling, focusing rather on the immediate task. He does, however, haggle a little more than he would had it been his own coin, feeling the need to not take too much advantage of their benefactors or allow others to do so,
***
Back at the quarters, Micah, with the assistance of the others, clears out a space in the temple area of the third floor. Once cleared and cleaned, he excuses himself to his chamber to change, returning with his shield, Ezer, and dressed in the spider silk garments gifted him. He places Ezer carefully upright in a stand at the edge of the cleared space on the floor. It begins to glow as it often does. Micah smiles and nods to her before beginning the ritual. Slowly and deliberately he sets out the elements for the spell. He starts by placing a small bowl at the at one edge of the space, pouring an ounce of fragrant oil and setting a cube of the new incense in the oil. He then kneels before it, taking deep measured breathes, while silently praying to Domi. Continuing this process, he proceeds to set four bowls in place forming the points of a square. Pouring a stream of salt mixed with rare herbs and spices, he creates a circle circumscribing the four points of the square formed by the bowls.
Once complete, he lights the incense in each bowl pausing to pray again at each as he does so, then he kneels in the center of the circle and begins to breath deeply and slowly. Perhaps another minute passes before he starts speaking in celestial, requesting audience with Domi and pleading for answers to the questions he is about to ask.
He then pauses and begins asking their questions:
" 1. Is what was portended likely to occur within the next week? 2. Within the next day? 3. Does the portent reveal a direct threat to Float? 4. Would travel to the Crying Woods be advised regarding this portent? 5. Is this omen related to the dragon the Crimson Shields slew years ago? 6. Has that dragon’s horde attracted another dragon? 7. Is that dragon’s horde something the Silver Shields should seek? 8. Is a dragon coming to attack the Float? 9. Are the lizardfolk that we know to be a significant party in whatever this omen portends? 10. Are the drow we know to be a significant party in whatever this omen portends? 11. Is this the result of the recent events that affected Caerolda and the other gods?"
DM Robert - "...the important thing is to stay calm and help others do the same." Saturday February 13th, 2021 11:23:41 AM changing format slightly for this post
Stohp reassures the WLA patrons. She then delves into the WLA records but finds no record to anything similar
Stock also in the WLA talks to some of the patrons. Perception 10 and Appraise 15 Highlight to display spoiler: {That guy saying you'd be bigger is sporting expensive gear and well padded. Like as not he's a rich son playing at being a hero.} Stock then helps Stohp, but there is no reference to the sky ever having winked out.
Zanderallen returns to HQ with some new insights.
Ohen helps out Micah. During the excursion in the merchant level he gets a few nods from merchants he's seen doing business with his father.
Bartomus speaks with the druids. He finds that many others had discomfort during the phenomenon. In fact everyone on the Float had some sort of experience. The druids know nothing about a green dragon that would be living in the cold. Green dragons generally life in temperate forests. When he goes to the Sages guild he is shown to a side room and two research assistants come in. They explain they have have been working on the translations from the lich's books. It seemed a millennium ago the drow and lizardfolk lived together in the Crying Wood and struggled against it together. Then 3 dragons somehow entered the area and subjugated the lizardfolk and turned them against the Drow. The war that ensued lasted several years, but the magic and combat powers of the dragons, added to the ilizardfolk's numbers turned the tide and eventually drove the drow out of the forest back to the mountains.
Delia asks how widespread the phenomina is. However, the Float is in the middle of a Lake miles and miles from any other civilization, well except for the Lizardfolk community, and the Drow city, and the place the Beast folk are settling in the west woods. But it's not like there's any way to really quickly communicate wth any of them. However, with regard to the police. The public is not panicky but rather slightly on edge.
Micah agrees to the abbot's request and makes his purchases. After much preparation he casts his Commune spell. He forms each question and asks in celestial. A powerful voice that he and Zanderallen would recogonize as Domi's responds. His response thrums with a deep brass tone. Anyone understanding Celestial can know the answer as each question is asked. 1. Is what was portended likely to occur within the next week? No 2. Within the next day? No 3. Does the portent reveal a direct threat to Float? Not directly 4. Would travel to the Crying Woods be advised regarding this portent? Not at this time 5. Is this omen related to the dragon the Crimson Shields slew years ago? Yes 6. Has that dragon’s horde attracted another dragon? No 7. Is that dragon’s horde something the Silver Shields should seek? Not yet 8. Is a dragon coming to attack the Float? No 9. Are the lizardfolk that we know to be a significant party in whatever this omen portends? Not any more 10. Are the drow we know to be a significant party in whatever this omen portends? No 11. Is this the result of the recent events that affected Caerolda and the other gods?" No
I'm assuming that everyone is gathered back in the HQ when the spell is cast.
Bartomus(Rod) HP: 76/76 AC 19; CMD 20 Melee +8;Perc+12;Heal+9 d8+1 Saturday February 13th, 2021 10:01:28 PM
Bartomus made his way back to the headquarters a bit frustrated in that he really hadn't learned a lot from the effort. Yes, he had a nice chat with the druids, but things did not add up. Green dragons liked forests, but not cold ones. So why had there been some dreaming of a cold place?
The discussion with the Sage's Guild was equally frustrating, but a bit more insightful. At one time both drow and lizardfolk lived in the Crying Wood, fought, and then dragons entered the scene and restructured the Crying Woods and set two civilizations on dramatically different paths. He took it all in, thanked the sages, and wandered back towards headquarters.
He came in in time to help where needed with, but mainly to watch, the efforts made by Micah to put everything into the ritual. Then as Micah executed the ritual, there was a voice speaking a language he did not understand but felt in the very air. It seemed that Micah was asking questions and receiving answers but it was melodic tones and that was all to Bartomus.
"Well, Micah, what did we learn today?"
Stohp (Mitch) HP: 82/82 hp AC: 25/15/21 CMB: +13 (17 Grapple, 15 Trip, 17 Disarm) CMD: 22 (+4 vs grapple,+2 disarm) Sunday February 14th, 2021 9:35:11 PM
Stohp gets back just in time to hear the results. "Sounds like there might not be much we can do about whatever happened or is going to happen. Best to keep everyone calm and watch for local trouble."
Micah (John) HP: 90/90 AC: 27/12/27 CMD:20 Monday February 15th, 2021 6:26:15 AM
Micah gasps as he recognizes the voice answering him. Filled with encouragement, he continues with the questions. Once the spell ends, he reluctantly accepts that contact with the divine has ended. He remains quiet and still until Bartomus breaks the silence.
Rising and stretching as he nods agreement with Stohp, he further explains, ”We learned much of what we do not need to worry about, but, unfortunately, not much on what we do. Still, learning where not to look is a large part of discovering where we should.
“What we now know is whatever is going to happen is more than a week away, does not directly threaten the Float, does not involve the lizardfolk or the recent events of the gods. I found Domi’s answer to some questions fascinating. He implied that, we may need to go to the Crying Wood and seek out the lost dragon’s hoard, but not now. He also implied that the lizardfolk once were significant in this context but are no longer.
“We also learned that the omen is related to the dragon defeated by the Crimson Shields. Perhaps, we should learn more about this.” With this last statement, he turns his gaze to Zanderallen.
Micah explains the questions and their answers for those who did not follow along.
He then retrieves pen and paper to write the following:
”Dear Happy,
As is the nature of divinations, the answers are often vague, but we did determine that the omen does NOT indicate that there is an immediate threat to the Float. We also know a great deal more where we do not have to focus our investigations, greatly increasing the effectiveness of our further inquiries.
I will stop by to answer any questions in more detail later but wished to provide you this preliminary report as quickly as possible.
Please share this with the other interested parties.
In the name of Domi, Micah Smith of the Silver Shields”
He then folds and seals it before taking it to the entrance to find a messenger to take it to Happy.
Stock (JonM) HP: 125/125; AC: 25/22/16; Per: +17; Surv: +14; SM: +9 d20=5 ; Monday February 15th, 2021 9:32:15 AM "Can't imagine what that would be like...having a god's voice in your head just repeating No No No No Yes No No...and on and on. No wonder some people get fed up with religion.
Aside from spreading our net a little wider - like maybe visiting the Drow or sending a message to the beastfolk, I'm at a bit of a loss for who to go to next for more information. And you know I don't want to sit around waiting for something to happen."
======== [i]Appraise 5
Zanderallen (Zachary H) 119/119 AC: 29 T: 13 FF: 28 CMD: 24 Monday February 15th, 2021 12:09:18 PM
Zanderallen's face lights up in joy and wonder at the sounds of Domi's voice. He listens gravely to the questions and answers, re-assured that nothing is of an immediate threat. He responds to Micah's probe, "I asked the paragon about it briefly. He didn't have much information. We can visit him again or we could also go look up Syrdeth, see what he remembers about it."
Ohen Kuldrven (Jacob H) HP: 83/83, AC: 22 (14T, 20 I, 20F, 19CMD); Permanent: Arcane Sight(120'), Darkvision(60'), See Invis, Perc +15 Monday February 15th, 2021 3:51:00 PM
Ohen is visibly in awe and whispers, "These Silver Shields have the ear of the gods themselves"
Afterward, he agrees with Micah.
"The only 'yes' was related to the Crimson Shields, and we got a 'not anymore' for the lizardfolk who were subjugated by 3 dragons forever ago. Bartomus, did you learn if the 3 dragons were green dragons, and was one of them the dragon killed by the Crimson Shields? I think this is our best lead."
Sid(Andrew) HP: 66/66; AC: 19/16/14; CMB: 7; CMD: 22 Speed: 30ft, Swim 30ft.) d20+17=30 ; Monday February 15th, 2021 4:00:20 PM
Sid makes sure that Elly and his businesses are going well and puts his ears to the street. Even going down to the Trash Level to see if the Grandmother's have any help they would like to lend. He also makes sure they are warm and are eating right.
Knowledge(Local): 30 ((See if he can ferret out any information that might help unravel the portents what have dawned upon them.))
Delia (Hannah) HP: 87/87; AC 23/16/18; CMD 29 Monday February 15th, 2021 4:10:53 PM
Delia sits reverently and silently during the Commune. While Domi is not the god she follows, she respects him and his followers greatly and, after the long absence of Serenbeth, greatly appreciates the serenity and comfort of hearing from your deity can bring.
"Thank the gods that this will not target the Float. Protecting an entire city from a threat of the scale that this seems to be..." she trails off, looking distant as she remembers Micah's dream of slavery before continuing, "I don't think I'll be of much use information gathering for something like this. I do not spend much time in libraries or rubbing elbows with powerful people who would know more about something like this, but once we find something tangible to track, I'm your scout."
DM Robert - "We also learned that the omen is related to the dragon defeated by the Crimson Shields." Monday February 15th, 2021 8:07:53 PM
Bartomus learns some history. Stohp thinks the best strategy is keeping calm and carrying on. Micah speaks with his god and then informs Happy that things are safe for now. Stock expresses himself, though he seems not to have heard Domi's voice even if he could not understand it. Zanderallen shares what he learned from Belkior. Ohen puts in his two cents. Sid ventures around to see what he can suss out. Delia is impressed. ------
Sid ventures to the seedier parts of town but learns nothing of use. Indeed the three witches perk up with Sid's arrival. Witch 1 "He's here." Witch 2 "That was the easy part." Witch 3 "Signs and portents." Witch 1 "Stars winked out," Witch 2 "Much magic involved," Witch 3 "Great changes come," Witch 1 "Now comes the testing," Witch 2 "The king comes," Witch 3 "Who will be king,"
The witches demure at further information, pressed they reveal that they told you all that they have been able to perceive. People will be tested. Someone will become a king.
Later.........
AS in several days have passed....
The Shields have been moderately busy, practicing is still being demanded by Zanderallen, who feels the team can always get better. Plus there's two new people to add into the mix. Stock, Bartomus, and Stohp still work in the workroom occasionally. But mostly you've found you've need to be seen in the streets as a calming and reassuring force. You've been able to greatly reduce the tension on the Float.
The one late afternoon, as the Shields gather around the table to discuss the days events and plan where to eat dinner, there's a knocking on the door. Opening it you perceive a young lady wearing the uniform of a page of the city council. She courtesy's too you-all. "By order of the City Council you will report yourselves post hasted," she stutters a bit, "I mean hastily, no hast, post hast, to the Main Chamber of the City Council." She courtesy's again. Sense Motive 15 Highlight to display spoiler: {She seems very nervous.} She glances around outside and then leans in, "Lord Paragon Belkior told me to tell you that this is full council, all nine members, so fancy yourselves up." She courtesy's again.
Stohp (Mitch) HP: 82/82 hp AC: 25/15/21 CMB: +13 (17 Grapple, 15 Trip, 17 Disarm) CMD: 22 (+4 vs grapple,+2 disarm) d20+12=18 ; Tuesday February 16th, 2021 7:18:26 AM
Stohp notices the woman's nerves (sense motive 18) but doesn't do anything to call attention to them or embarrass them. "We shall come as quickly as we can."
Micah (John) HP: 90/90 AC: 27/12/27 CMD:20 Tuesday February 16th, 2021 8:21:26 AM
Micah considers proposing a delay so as not to appear to be at the beck and call of the council, but quickly decides that showing their submissiveness in this way might calm some on the council who are inclined to be threatened by the Silver Shield's popularity and influence. Having come to that conclusion, he nods agreement with Stohp's statement.
He smiles warmly at the nervous page and invites her into the building with a gesture, "Are you to provide us escort? If so, please come in and have some tea while we gather ourselves to join you.
After seeing that she is settled, he excuses himself to change into his spider silk garments and retrieve Ezer and his hammer.
========= Sense Motive autosucceed
Stock (JonM) HP: 125/125; AC: 25/22/16; Per: +17; Surv: +14; SM: +9 d20+9=29 ; Tuesday February 16th, 2021 9:42:30 AM
Stock stares so long at the woman that it makes everybody a little uncomfortable. He leans in to Stohp and whispers, "Well she's nervous. Either on account of seeing a bunch like us or because something she knows about this meeting...
Then to the rest, "Gimme a minute. I'm going to get my new armor on. It's the only thing I have right now that's clean."
===== Sense Motive 29
Bartomus(Rod) HP: 76/76 AC 19; CMD 20 Melee +8;Perc+12;Heal+9 d8+1 Tuesday February 16th, 2021 10:49:56 AM
As they were discussing who would make what for their meal, they were interrupted by a messenger from the Paragon. "Ok, time to put on our best and see what is now causing such an urgent concern. Lord Belkior wouldn't want us for such a meeting if there wasn't a true need. Alright then, let's do this."
Turning to the page, if she in fact is to be their escort, "Please get comfortable and there are some things to each
He went up to his room and pulled out the courtier's clothes that he and his fellow Shields were given by the Ladies of the Drow Court. When he got everything on, adjusted, and as comfortable as court clothes can actually be, he joined his fellow Shields. [b]"Well, this will probably catch attention, all of us dandied up and heading up above. Zander, your lass Pepper will be wanting an exclusive," and he paused a bit longer than would be normal, "story."
Zanderallen (Zachary H) 119/119 AC: 29 T: 13 FF: 28 CMD: 24 Tuesday February 16th, 2021 4:44:44 PM
Zanderallen gives the page a reassuring smile and and a slight bow in return to her curtsy. He motions for her to come in and have a seat. "We'll be just a minute getting ready, please have a seat. All right everyone, something big is going down. Let's look our best." Zanderallen freshens up and puts on the spider silk courtier outfit. He refrains from fully armoring up, just putting on the chain shirt of his chain mail for the proper level of martial appearance. Buckling on his belt he attaches his sword and puts the rest of his gear in his bag of holding. He comes back down to the main room and catches both Stock and Delia, "I would ask the two of you try and hold in the commentary, this is a full formal council meeting, some members are likely prissy nobles who take offense easily. No need to make more enemies on the council.", Zander grins and pats them both of the shoulder. "Alright, everybody ready?"
Delia (Hannah) HP: 87/87; AC 23/16/18; CMD 29 d20=13 ; Tuesday February 16th, 2021 5:29:38 PM
Delia notices the nerves of the poor messenger and nods sympathetically, she gets nervous around fancy people too.
As everyone else moves to prepare, she dusts off her travelworn tunic and asks, "Is this ok? Or does the council expect all of us to dress like dandi- uhhh formal... people. You know what? This is fine. I'll just... stand in the back. They won't even notice me."
===================== Sense Motive: 20 (13+7)
DM Robert - "Alright, everybody ready?" Tuesday February 16th, 2021 8:17:35 PM
Stoph gets ready to go. Micah tries to put the messenger at ease and then puts on his fancy duds. Stock opts to put armor on for the meeting. Bartomus also tries to put the messenger at ease and puts on his fancy silk duds. Zanderallen also tries to put the messenger at ease and puts on his fancy silk duds. Delia only has her 'work' clothes to wear. Sid ???? Ohen???
______________
The group heads out and goes to the top of the Float and make their way to the Town Hall wherein the City Council usually meets. This time though rather than a meeting in a side room they are escorted up stairs and through halls till they see a double door in front of them. Overly dressed pages stand to either side of the great doors and pull them open to admit you. You see that the main council chamber could hold many people if they needed to, but for now you note the crescent shaped table, raised of course around with sit 9 figures. In the front you note 8 empty chairs. In addition there is a chair in which you see Tanglefoot seated. There is another chair holding a person you've never seen before.
You quickly recognize Lord Paragon Belkior, Lady Bethany Crowl and Lord Jonas Yeager. (for the new people, , Lord Jonas Yeager: An average looking may perhaps 50, with white hair. He is dressed well and obviously likes to eat well. Lady Bethany Crowl: A strikingly beautiful woman in her 30’s. She has long black hair but impressively styled into a mass on top of her head. She is adorned with fine jewelry. Paragon Belkior the halfling cleric.) Hold the center chair you see Overlord Aerashkiel: She is a half-elf and former leader of the Circle of Alder. Approximately 80 years old. There are enough empty chairs for you and 2 larger chairs for the larger members of your group.
The other members of the council you have never met. Please make separate rolls for each seat, and designate said rolls to said seats.
Seat 6: Human in her late 50’s. Black hair but with streaks of grey. She has blue eyes. Perception 25 Highlight to display spoiler: {there's a name plate that says Lady Nori} Knowledge local 20 Highlight to display spoiler: { not a noble of the city, rather a former business owner, a restaurateur on the Float}
Seat 1: Human, noble features, a hawk nose and piercing black eyes to match his jet black hair. His countenance is sullen. Perception 25 Highlight to display spoiler: {there's a name plate that says Lord Marcus Rothchild} Knowledge Noble 20 Highlight to display spoiler: { one of the notable aristocracy of the city}
Seat 2: Older gentleman, human perhaps in his 60’s Perception 25 Highlight to display spoiler: {there's a name plate that says Lord Heridious Gordo} Knowledge local 20 Highlight to display spoiler: { not a noble of the city,Known to oversee the transport ring/Way Station to Plateau City. Also a merchant that handles a lot of transportation needs in the Float.}
Seat 3: Female human in her 40’s. Not exactly a beauty, but well dressed and wearing fine jewelry, brown hair and green eyes. Perception 25 Highlight to display spoiler: {there's a name plate that says Lady Alexis Asking} Knowledge Noble 20 Highlight to display spoiler: { one of the notable aristocracy of the city}
Seat 4: A half elven, pale complected, white hair. He is not old, rather somewhat an albino. He’s perhaps in his late 30’s. Though well dressed you can tell his clothes hang somewhat loose on him, though they are well made. Perception 25 Highlight to display spoiler: {there's a name plate that says Lord Elric Storm} Knowledge Noble 20 Highlight to display spoiler: { one of the notable aristocracy of the city} Knowledge Local 20 Highlight to display spoiler: { Also one of the members of the Star Mages Guild}
In seat B you see a middle aged half elf, dark complected with long black hair tied back, very well dressed. He has green eyes. Perception 20 Highlight to display spoiler: { you realize that he is half drow, but you're not sure what else. Something is off, his fingernails appear to be claws and there's just a faint indication of scales on his skin.} Knowledge Arcane 20 Highlight to display spoiler: {You realize this person is in fact half dragon, quite literally 1 step removed, not somewhere in an ancestors past.}
Overlord Aerashkiel rise from her seat and bows slightly. "Thank you for coming. I would also like to thank you for your work in calming the city following the occurrence during the double full moon. You are an asset to the city." Please make a perception check here, list it as scanning the room or something, I'm not going to reveal what you're seeing at this time though.
She sits and then waves a hand to indicate Tanglefoot. He rises and you see him lick his lips. "Thank you Overlord." He addresses you. "As you know we have been rebuilding Riverton. Part of that process involves doing some excavation. Apparently last week the excavators broke into a small chamber and saw this strange metal disc. They brought it out and the village elders and wizards were trying to determine what it was. It was evidently radiating multiple magical fields. That night the device seemed to implode and sent a shock-wave through the town, no real damage was done but the device was gone and the table where it rested had a dark disc shape burnt on it." He nods to your unasked question, "Yes this was the night of the double full moon."
This is a good place to stop for any questions you may have of Tanglefoot or the council. And if you would like to quietly share what you discover about the council.
Bartomus(Rod) HP: 76/76 AC 19; CMD 20 Melee +8;Perc+12;Heal+9 d8+1 d20+12=15 ; d20+7=23 ; d20+12=30 ; d20+7=10 ; d20+12=19 ; d20+7=21 ; d20+12=24 ; d20=15 ; d20+12=14 ; d20=17 ; d20+12=28 ; d20=13 ; d20+12=15 ; d20+12=24 ; Tuesday February 16th, 2021 11:20:35 PM
Bartomus took it all in this time as they were lead through the Town Hall for the Float. When they were being led to the Council Chambers, he smiled and realized that whatever it was they were in for, it was going to involve a lot more than just a few members of the Council. He also realized that this was the third Council chamber he, a simple adopted Taur from the Plains mind you, had been in now in just a year or so. One underwater, one underground, and now this one.
Seeing the dais and the chairs for the Shields, he made his way to the large chair near the crescent table atop the dais and where the Paragon was sitting. He nodded at the man who had been exceptional kind not only the Shields but also many on the lower levels of the Float. He also gave a short bow of his head to Lord Yeager and Lady Crowl. He gave a slightly deeper bowl to Aerashkiel as he took his seat.
He looked at the others sitting before them. The woman directly across from him he recognized, but could not recall her name. She owned a restaurant on the Float he was sure of that, but moved on and caught in the light the name tag of Lord Marcus Rothchild. Sadly he couldn't add anything beyond that. Lord Rothchild was sitting next to a man who was familiar to him but he was having a mental slip as he couldn't recall the man's name. He over the various transportation needs of many a merchant and he may have helped with the early lumber negotiations from the woods.
Bartomus suspected it was the unusual nature of the man sitting in front of them. He was part drow, he had all of the features with the darkened skin and dark hair, but also the green eyes. Yet, as Bartomus focused in quickly on the man's features, there was something else with the long almost claw-like fingernails and were there scales on his skin? Was he related to the lizardfolk? Or, maybe something else, could dragons have drow descendants?
He pulled himself from his thoughts as Overlord Aerashkiel spoke. She seemed to be thanking them, but he was still processing the relationship between Tanglefoot and Green-eyes. He also figured that Zander or Micah would be more than willing to do the fine talking with the Overlord.
They knew Tanglefoot and when the lizardman started speaking, Bartomus leaned forward and held his gaze, and focus on what Tanglewood was sharing. When he connected the shockwave with not only the silver medallion's disappearance but with the double moon, Bartomus just asked his questions.
Alright Tanglewood, very good to see you. Hope you and your kin are doing well. Sure sounds like you and yours are making great progress with the new settlement."[b] He paused, licked his lips and then continued. [b]"But, help me understand what this chamber was, will ya? Was it a burial chamber? Part of a building? Oh, and could you be a help and describe what the disc looked like?"
Taking Large seat at LM 14
Seat 6 - Perc 15 know Loc 23 Black hair with streaks of grey, restaurateur on the Float Seat 1 - Perc 30 Know Loc 10 Lord Marcus Rothchild Seat 2 - Perc 19 Know Loc 21 Overseer of the transport ring, but also involved in transportation in the float Seat 3 - Perc 24 Know Nob 15 No clue Seat 4 - Perc 14 Know Nob 17 No clue Seat B - Perc 28 Know Arc 13 Part drow with touches of something - lizardfolk, dragon, something else
Scanning check - 15
Perception Tanglewood - 24
Ohen Kuldrven (Jacob H) HP: 83/83, AC: 22 (14T, 20 I, 20F, 19CMD); Permanent: Arcane Sight(120'), Darkvision(60'), See Invis, Perc +15 d20+1=2 ; d20+15=21 ; d20+15=26 ; d20+1=4 ; d20+15=35 ; d20+1=13 ; d20+15=26 ; d20+1=20 ; d20+1=18 ; d20+15=29 ; d20+15=24 ; d20+15=21 ; Wednesday February 17th, 2021 2:07:59 AM
Ohen is always fancy and was ready to go as soon as everyone else was. He would keep the Page company to try to put her at ease if she waits for us.
Ohen would look around, taking note of a few name plates until he sees the dark-skinned half-elf. He fixates on him, and tries to take a seat close to him to be able to watch him better.
On the way, he whispers to an ally nearby. "That man is a half-drow half-dragon. Very interesting." ~~~~~~~~~~~~ 2 Failed Local 21 Failed Perception
26 Saw Marcus Rothchild's nameplate 4 Failed Noble
35 Saw Lord Heriodious Gordo's nameplate 13 Failed Local
26 Saw Lord Elric's Storm 20 Know he's a noble 18 Failed Local
20 Notice drow ancestry and scales 24 Arcane to know half-dragon
21 Perception to scan the room
Stohp (Mitch) HP: 82/82 hp AC: 25/15/21 CMB: +13 (17 Grapple, 15 Trip, 17 Disarm) CMD: 22 (+4 vs grapple,+2 disarm) d20+17=35 ; d20+17=22 ; d20+17=23 ; d20+17=30 ; d20+17=24 ; d20+16=30 ; d20+16=34 ; d20+16=21 ; d20+16=34 ; d3=3 ; d20+16=24 ; d20+16=28 ; d20+12=31 ; Wednesday February 17th, 2021 6:42:24 AM
Stohp is already familiar with most of the people in the room, though she was unaware of the Drow's half dragon heritage. She quickly scans the room on entry trying to judge how this thing will go (perception 28, sense motive 31 to read the general mood of the room)
Stock (JonM) HP: 125/125; AC: 25/22/16; Per: +17; Surv: +14; SM: +9 d20+17=26 ; d20+17=31 ; d20+17=34 ; d20+17=21 ; d20+17=23 ; d20+17=25 ; d20+3=5 ; d20+3=21 ; d20+3=14 ; d20+17=22 ; Wednesday February 17th, 2021 9:28:26 AM
As they are leaving, when Z asks him to hold back on imposing on the meeting Stock says, "Pfft. I frankly don't know why you'd say that when you know perfectly well I'll involve myself when and where necessary. They say it is part of my charm."
At the council, he takes his time identifying the councilors and their guests and is pleased to see Tanglefoot involved in the proceedings. That is he was until he heard that the beastfolk had dug up a thing that caused a thing on the night of the double moon.
He leans in to Delia and mutters, "Wait for it...they all know what's going on already and are just about to tell us to go somewhere to do something...wait for it..." ========= Seat 6 Perception 26, Local 5; Lady Nori Seat 1 Perception 31, Lord Marcus Rothchild Seat 2 Perception 34, Local 21, Lord Heridious Gordo Seat 3 Perception 21 Seat 4 Perception 23, Local, 14 Seat B Perception 25, half drow...thing Perception 22 taking in his surroundings
Delia (Hannah) HP: 87/87; AC 23/16/18; CMD 29 d20=11 ; d20=8 ; d20=17 ; d20=1 ; d20=13 ; d20=5 ; d20=19 ; Wednesday February 17th, 2021 4:46:27 PM
Delia takes in the extravagant building and overdressed pages, shaking her head slightly at the pomp. In the council chamber, her eyes flick around the room, attaching names, though they mean little to her, to faces. Her eyes linger for a moment on the half-drow/half-dragon in the room, remembering Ohen's experience with even a diluted dragon ancestry, but she quickly moves on to her standard and thorough scan of new surroundings.
Stock's comment earns a stifled smile as she also ignores Zanderallen, whispering back, "Wanna take bets on how much beating around the bush they do before they boss us around?"
=============================================== not proficient in Know (local) or Know (nobility)
Seat 6: Perception: 30 (11+19) - Lady Nori Seat 1: Perception: 27 (8+19) - Lord Marcus Rothchild Seat 2: Perception: 36 (17+19) - Lord Heridious Gordo Seat 3: Perception: 20 (1+19) - can't read nameplate Seat 4: Perception: 33 (13+19) - Lord Elric Storm Seat B: Perception: 24 (5+19) - notices the weird scales, but doesn't know exactly what they mean until she overhears Ohen's observation
Micah nods acknowledgement when he recognizes Tanglefoot, giving him a large grin. His mien shifts to grimness, however, when the lizardfolk tells his tale.
He adds his own question's to Bart's, "Did the disc have any markings on it? What about the burn mark? Was it solid or was some sigil or other mark left in it?"
Zanderallen (Zachary H) 119/119 AC: 29 T: 13 FF: 28 CMD: 24 d20+7=13 ; d20+17=31 ; Wednesday February 17th, 2021 5:44:29 PM
Zanerallen leads the way into the council chamber giving a martial bow to the Overlord and the rest of the council. He notes the slight of not being introduced to the lords and ladies but makes no comment or outward sign. He glances around trying to get a sense of the general feeling in the room and responds to the Overlord's thanks, "We are glad to have helped put minds at ease. We are always at the service of the people of the Float." He listens gravely to Tanglefoot's story, glad to see him again. "Tanglefoot did your kinsfolk experience odd sensations that night? Chills, passing out, dizziness, dreams of dragons?" Oh and Tanglefoot allow me to introduce two new members of our group, Ohen and Delia, Ohen and Delia this is Tanglefoot, we helped negotiate a treaty between his people and the Float awhile back. --------------------------------------- Getting a sense of the room Perception: 13 Sense Motive: 31
[OOC: Jacob and Hannah, Tanglefoot is the Lizardfolk ambassador for the Lizardfolk tribe living in the forest. Old friend of the Sheilds, it's quite likely it came up in some of the getting to know the Shields conversations over the past several in game days.]
DM Robert - "Alright, everybody ready?" Wednesday February 17th, 2021 8:23:07 PM
Bartomus scans the room but comes up empty. He asks some questions. Ohen interest is aroused by the strange half drow/dragon. Stohp scans the room, she notes that Rothchild looks bored by it all, Storm seems apprehensive. Stock waits just a reminder Tanglefoot is a Lizard Folk not a Beast Folk, different races different villages Delia wants to bet on when the bossing around occurs. Micah ask some questions. Zanderallen acknowledges the council, introduces the new Shields, and asks some questions. SID????? remains quiet ????????? _________________________
I assume you all quietly whisper back and forth so I'm at least putting the names on the map
Bartomus asks, "..help me understand what this chamber was, will ya? Was it a burial chamber? Part of a building?" Tanglefoot replies "Well understand, the information I have is second hand I was not there, but from what was said it seems more of a vault of some kind, nothing else was found in the room discovered, oh and it was apparently only 10x10 which is why it was so sturdy and held up over time."
Bartomus queries, "Could you be a help and describe what the disc looked like?" Tanglefoot shrugs and says "A silver disk about 3 inches in diameter covered with strange script circling around it."
Micah chimes in "Did the disc have any markings on it?" Tanglefoot nods, "Yes it had some strange script on one both sides. It was not readily clear what it said, but Slythyl feels that magic was obscuring the script making it impossible to translate."
Micah follows up with "What about the burn mark? Was it solid or was some sigil or other mark left in it?' Tanglefoot shakes his head, "No, nothing, just a solid black scorching as it burned to a cinder, but there was no residue."
Zanderallen manages to get his question out, "Tanglefoot did your kinsfolk experience odd sensations that night? Chills, passing out, dizziness, dreams of dragons?" Tanglefoot vigorously nods his head. "Indeed that is why I came to your leaders. I received instructions to ask about any such things. Slythyl says many dreamed that night of dragons and a glorious empire. While others dreamed of dragons and slavery. It has been very disturbing to our people. That this occurred on the night of the double full moon and then with the burst of energy that destroyed the amulet or coin..." He shakes his head.
Overlord Aerashkiel speaks, "I've already spoken some with Tanglefoot and expressed our concern as well, but that word reached me that you," she motions with her hand to encompass all the Silver Shields, "are already looking into the occurrence and that you did not feel the Float was in any immediate danger."
The stranger then stands. "I believe I can shed some light on this. I've already talked a bit with some of the council members, though not formally." He adjusts himself to be able to address both the Shields and the full council. "My name is Malici Daagon, and if you haven't already noticed I'm a bit of half breed. You see centuries ago my mother was a captive of one of the green dragons that lived in the Crying Woods." He smiles wanly. "It appears one of the benefits of being half-dragon is a very long lifespan. In any case my mother managed after I was born to escape. In fact I believe I was 15 at that time. We tried to go back to her people, now living in the mountain but they would have no part of me. I think that broke my mother's heart for she died at that time. Thus I began a long time of wandering." He shrugs.
Perception 20 Highlight to display spoiler: { Storm is following the story the most closely, you can tell all the council appears interested. Lady Nori is dabbing back tears from her eyes. Rothchild and Yeager are both rubbing their chin as if thinking about something else while listening.}
Malici continues "I know I was the subject of ‘experimentation’ by the green dragon that used to live in the Crying Woods. It's been quite a while since I thought about that time, but I overheard him once talking and saying he was determined to breed a race of ‘noble’ go-betweens so that he did not have to always deal with what he considered the idiocy of the lizard folk he ruled." He bows to Tanglefoot, "No offense, I merely repeat what he'd said. I can tell you that I was not the only experiment, but I was the only Drow." He fishes into a pocket and brings forth a silvery coin. He holds it up. You can clearly see that it is a pie shaped wedge. One of perhaps 4 that when put together would make a silvery disc about 3 inches in diameter.
"A week ago I woke up with this in my hand."Yes it's been a week since the occurrence."At that time I felt compelled to return to this area. But now that I'm here, I really have no further indication of where to go or what to do."
Que cliff hanger music!
Stohp (Mitch) HP: 82/82 hp AC: 25/15/21 CMB: +13 (17 Grapple, 15 Trip, 17 Disarm) CMD: 22 (+4 vs grapple,+2 disarm) Thursday February 18th, 2021 6:33:07 AM
Stohp considers all that's been said. "Well... the obvious place to start seems to be this old vault. It could be something as simple as the dragons having a system to recall the dragon's agents that was never used which affected you due to the experiments in your youth. Something to frighten their enemies, cow their slaves, and inspire their mortal servants. That would explain why our divinations indicated it was no threat to the float. Still best to investigate instead of merely speculating.
If no clear answers are at the vault then the ancient stronghold of the dragons seems the next most obvious place to investigate for answers. Do we have any way of locating it?"
Micah (John) HP: 90/90 AC: 27/12/27 CMD:20 d20+4=19 ; Thursday February 18th, 2021 7:52:57 AM
Where is seat "B'? I do not see it on the map.
Micah nods in agreement with Stohp, then rises to approach Malici, asking, "May we take a closer look at the object? Do you mind if I cast a spell to do so?"
"Also, you say you were the only drow. How do you know? Are you aware of the other subjects: their identity and number?"
Perception 19 vs DC 20
Stock (JonM) HP: 125/125; AC: 25/22/16; Per: +17; Surv: +14; SM: +9 d20+17=35 ; Thursday February 18th, 2021 9:15:02 AM "Master Daagon, I'm sure it is quite a story but I wonder - where did you wander to during your years "in the wilderness"? Or if you'd prefer to be brief, do you have any roots in or connections to others within the Float?
Have you felt compelled like this before?"
Zanderallen (Zachary H) 119/119 AC: 29 T: 13 FF: 28 CMD: 24 d20+7=18 ; Thursday February 18th, 2021 2:50:45 PM
Zanderallen scratches his chin thinking over what Malici explained, "I hope you don't mind if we ask you some questions. Where exactly did you feel compelled to return to, and how did you end up coming to the Council? If what I think is true there may be three others on their way to the area holding 3 matching pieces to your wedge. Micah, Ohen is there any way your magics might be able to track the other pieces from Mr. Daagon's piece? It's possible they may know additional information, or it's also possible they're not as friendly as Malici here. If they were left under the tutelage of their father for longer they could be real trouble, especially if they're being compelled to return to the area." Zander wrinkles his face an old memory coming to the surface, "Do you know of any minotaurs that were experimented upon Malici? We ran into a minotaur with some draconic blood awhile back, Shredds I believe was his name." -------------------- Perception 18
Sid(Andrew) HP: 66/66; AC: 19/16/14; CMB: 7; CMD: 22 Speed: 30ft, Swim 30ft.) Thursday February 18th, 2021 4:51:52 PM
Sid sits there and nods absently thinking about Elly. He hopes she was ok with the ceremonies they had. He was never truly one for the grand traditions, but simple oaths under the moonlight and her glowing radiance, whatever the cause of it, have had him giddy. Next time he decided to make a donation he swore to himself to go to the Casino and thank Wardd for his luck. His mind wanders again to that night when he could she the aura around her so clearly. He didn't cry anymore at the thought, but his lips curled slightly in a soft smile. Their decades of companionship hadn't prepared him for the almost overwhelming glow in his heart. He hoped that he could read to her Sir Illianth's Requiem of Love, a short piece that should only take 3 to 5 hours to recite, before whatever this was pulled him away. She'd tease him for being a softy, but that was alright. It was true anyway. He'd been making calf eyes when he met her and still did to this day. He absently rubbed a scar from when she pinned him with an arrow while they were "playing" Rabbit in the Ticket. She never realized that she had tagged him, and he was good at hiding pain by that point. He never thought that they would grow into the people that they had, that her steel facade would be smoothed or that his clay would be tempered so strong.
The meeting seemed to drag on until the drowish fellow started to speak. Sid's head started to focus on the events at hand.
Ohen Kuldrven (Jacob H) HP: 83/83, AC: 22 (14T, 20 I, 20F, 19CMD); Permanent: Arcane Sight(120'), Darkvision(60'), See Invis, Perc +15 d20+15=18 ; Thursday February 18th, 2021 6:16:59 PM "Malici, if I may I would also like to take a closer look at the object. Sorry Zanderallen, I'm no good at tracking objects with magic, perhaps Micah can?" ~~~~ 18 failed Perception
DM Robert - "Master Daagon, I'm sure it is quite a story.." Thursday February 18th, 2021 8:05:59 PM Changing format again, seems to work better during Q&A Opps, sorry I was moving his chair and forgot to put it back on. council room
Stohp thinks checking out the 'vault' might be the best course of action and then maybe the dragons stronghold. He asks "Do we have any way of locating it?"
Malici replies, "I don't think there were three dragons living together. I only remember one. And alas I would have no way of finding my way back to that location. The forest was an angry and changing thing at that time. I understand that is no longer the case though."
Paragon Belkior chimes in, "I can tell you the green dragon we fought back in the day was the last one in the forest. We'd done some research and apparently several decades ago there was a group of adventurers composed of Drow. They were pretty efficient and were able to slay the other dragons. Each had their own stronghold."
Micah steps forward. "May we take a closer look at the object? Do you mind if I cast a spell to do so?"
Malici holds the pie/wedge out for you to see. "I've tried several spells myself maybe you'll do better and figuring out what is going on with it."
Micah continues, "Also, you say you were the only drow. How do you know? Are you aware of the other subjects: their identity and number?"
Malici's eye's widen and then you see him think about it. "Well at the time there were some other....children? And of course I'm not sure what went on after I left. At that point none of the children seemed to meet whatever expectation he had set. There were 2 minotaurs, but they were rather intractable. Let's see, there was an orc but he seemed all muscle. There were no other Drow at the time."
Stock has some questions, "Master Daagon, I'm sure it is quite a story but I wonder - where did you wander to during your years "in the wilderness"? Or if you'd prefer to be brief, do you have any roots in or connections to others within the Float?
Malici smiles at the dwarf's pointed question. "Sadly I had to do much traveling. My heritage being so evident it was always a factor in people's prejudices. I've actually found Drow to be the most prejudicial, from the mountains here to those that dwell in the Scab. Plateau City for boasting itself a metropolis also had it's share of ill wishers. Suffice to say I moved a great deal and found learning where I could. Most recently I was living quietly by myself in the Culver Wood. I've honestly never been to the Float and don't know anyone here."
Stock follows up with, "Have you felt compelled like this before?"
Malici shakes his head. "No."
Zanderallen asks some questions to all Not going to address those aimed at your comrades, but I will say, .. I changed my mind I'm not saying nothing, lets see what spells you try. "Where exactly did you feel compelled to return to, and how did you end up coming to the Council? If what I think is true there may be three others on their way to the area holding 3 matching pieces to your wedge." PS, Shreds was not a direct child, he was like Ohen, and I believe you killed Shreds.
Malici gives a shrug. "I can't say exactly where. It was more a feeling to return to the area. I'd read of the Float being here now and came here as it may be the only point of civilization in the Crying Woods. Forgive me I mean the former Crying Woods. Overlord Aerashkiel, explained to me that the bulk of the sentient woods has relocated itself making the surrounding woods, just woods." He nods, [b]"I agree with your theory that since this medallion for lack of a better word, probably has 3 other parts."
Sid is lost in thought.
Ohen you may examine the medallion with Micah.
Delia?
Bartomus(Rod) HP: 76/76 AC 19; CMD 20 Melee +8;Perc+12;Heal+9 d8+1 Thursday February 18th, 2021 11:35:26 PM
Bartomus had lost himself in thought and realized he was trying to understand the Dragon's attempt to create its own progeny of overlord children.
"Lord Malici, so there were three other, should I say siblings, and would they all have the same long lifespan such as yourself? If so, and if we assume they have the other parts of this medallion, should see if we could scry for the other parts or the other progeny?" Bartomus paused and then added, "you never went a searching for those other three before this, so if the common element would be the medallion, do you know what it is made out of specifically as we might be able to set up some means of searching for that element or create an alert when that element comes close to Tanglefoot's found crypt."
Sorry, had thought I had written a post but I had made notes to do so, and did nothing. Ugh.
Delia (Hannah) HP: 87/87; AC 23/16/18; CMD 29 Friday February 19th, 2021 1:02:07 AM
Delia is remaining silent so far during this whole proceeding, uncomfortable in the presence of all the lords and ladies, content to listen, watch, and make the occasional side comment to Stock.
Sorry, got caught up in homework this afternoon
Stohp (Mitch) HP: 82/82 hp AC: 25/15/21 CMB: +13 (17 Grapple, 15 Trip, 17 Disarm) CMD: 22 (+4 vs grapple,+2 disarm) Friday February 19th, 2021 8:04:33 AM
Stohp is done with her questions for now. She fully expects to be asked to investigate and is just waiting for the others to finish asking and for the request to be made.
Stock (JonM) HP: 125/125; AC: 25/22/16; Per: +17; Surv: +14; SM: +9 Friday February 19th, 2021 9:37:45 AM "Master Daagon - one more question from me - since the moment in which you found the shard in your posession, have you tried to get rid of it? The reason I ask is to try to discern if the object is compelling you onward or if it is just a sign of your compulsion. If it is the object itself, then we can guess that any other shards will be with your half-siblings-it might make it easier to find them or identify them if we need to."
Micah frowns at Zanderallen's suggestion that the others may be coming to the Float and has an idea or two of how to respond to his question. Rather than replying, he continues with his original intent for now, casting true seeing, initially using it to examine both the shard and on its holder and then on the rest of the people in the room.
Zanderallen (Zachary H) 119/119 AC: 29 T: 13 FF: 28 CMD: 24 Friday February 19th, 2021 4:10:59 PM
Zanderallen listens to Malici's tale of his wandering, a sad look coming over his face, "I'm sorry you had to deal with that, and I hope we are not causing offense by our questions. We merely wish to learn as much as we can about what is going on. And if you remember three others with you, what are the chances they ended up with the other three pieces? I think we would do well to keep an eye out for them."
Sid(Andrew) HP: 66/66; AC: 19/16/14; CMB: 7; CMD: 22 Speed: 30ft, Swim 30ft.) d20+16=27 ; Friday February 19th, 2021 5:56:36 PM
Sid starts to come around and cranes his neck to see the medallion shard. He wonders if it looks anything like the medallion they picked up from the pocket plane, which he should still have.
Ohen Kuldrven (Jacob H) HP: 83/83, AC: 22 (14T, 20 I, 20F, 19CMD); Permanent: Arcane Sight(120'), Darkvision(60'), See Invis, Perc +15 d20+15=24 ; d20+15=35 ; d20+24=43 ; Saturday February 20th, 2021 5:49:54 AM
Ohen focuses his Arcane sight on the medallion, and attempts to identify its properties. Then he focuses his sight on the half-dragon identifying his spellcasting abilities while pretending to continue to look at the wedge.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Knowledge Arcana 24 to identify school
Natural 20 Spellcraft, total 35, to identify the properties of the wedge.
Bluff 43 (if required) to pretend I'm still looking at the wedge while concentrating on the half-dragon.
DM Robert - "We merely wish to learn as much as we can about what is going on." Saturday February 20th, 2021 11:08:01 AM
Bartomus asks some questions. Delia contemplates if book learning is a necessary thing. Stohp waits for the other shoe to drop. Stock asks an important question. Micah casts a spell. Zanderallen worries that there will be other medallion holders. Sid looks at the medallion intensely. Ohen gives the medallion a thorough scrutiny.
Malici responds to Bartomus. "I have no way of knowing how many siblings there may be. My mother told me that one of the reasons she attempted the escape is that when I was getting to be as old as I was if I was not turning out how the dragon thought I should he destroyed the 'child'. She knows this because she'd seen it happen several times. As to seeking out any other siblings, I really have no inkling of kinship to them. As to what this medalion is made out of I have no idea."I don't think there's any kind of spell that is specific enough to detect a type of element.
Malici responds to Stock. "I don't think getting rid of it would be a good idea. There's no telling what effects it would have on others. No reason to endanger others." He olds the medallion in the palm of his hand for examination. "Unfortunately I have no spells that would enable to scry or distant view others. I've always been a bit of a loner." He says sadly.
Lord Storm clears his throat, "Pardon the interruption, but I did try to scry the medallion's other parts. Unfortunatley it resists such attempts, even to attempting to scry that particular piece, when I know where it is, is impossible."
Micah's spell reveals that all is exactly as it seems. There are no illusions or polymorphing on either the medallion or Malici. The writing on the disc swims before your eyes but then solidifies. It appears familiar but there's not enough intact letters to make out any words. And you don't recognize any of the script. If you copy it down for someone else... Linguistics 20 Highlight to display spoiler: {looks like an ancient form of Draconic, again only a few letters, not enough to make any words}
Ohen goes to work on the medallion as well as Malici. The medallion radiates overwhelming: Universal, Conjuraction, Divination, multiple Enchantment, and Transmutation.
Ohen sees that Malici is a sorcerer between 9 and 12th level.
Then a page opens the back door on the east side of the room. A page enters and glances around, you note a bird fly in through the door. The page goes to Lord Belkior who nods and points the page toward Overlord Aerashkiel. The bird flies over to Tanglefoot and lands in his hand and promptly disappears a small feather falling to the floor. Tanglefoot holds a note in his hand. Spellcraft 15 Highlight to display spoiler: {you recognize the end of a feather token item.}
The page heads over to the Overlord and begins whispering in her ear.
Lords Yeager and Rothchild looks annoyed by the disturbance. Lady Asking starts fanning herself with one of those collapsible hand fans.
Stohp (Mitch) HP: 82/82 hp AC: 25/15/21 CMB: +13 (17 Grapple, 15 Trip, 17 Disarm) CMD: 22 (+4 vs grapple,+2 disarm) Sunday February 21st, 2021 4:22:55 PM
Stohp waits patiently for whatever new information has come to be shared.
Bartomus(Rod) HP: 76/76 AC 19; CMD 20 Melee +8;Perc+12;Heal+9 d8+1 d20+1=15 ; d20+12=14 ; d20+12=30 ; d20+12=16 ; Sunday February 21st, 2021 8:06:29 PM
Bartomus tried to understand what was going on and really kept focused on the question of how do you find something that doesn't want to be found.
"Could we just wait to see if Malici's steps come a calling here at the Float?" Bartomus asked more to just anyone who would listen, then he thought for a moment. "Tanglefoot, could we just head back with you to take a look at this crypt you all did find? Might be more clues around there."
Linguistics 15; Perception 16 at the whispering
Sid(Andrew) HP: 66/66; AC: 19/16/14; CMB: 7; CMD: 22 Speed: 30ft, Swim 30ft.) d20+13=28 ; d20+12=25 ; d20+13=23 ; Sunday February 21st, 2021 9:53:18 PM
"Ooo, interesting," Sid says when he looks at the script, "It resembles an ancient form of Draconic. I would have to assume that this is very old indeed as the scripts of the longer lived races evolves slower than those of other races."
Sid makes some notes looking at the variations of script and the variants he knows to see if he can pull any information about age, location, or culture.
For more information about the script if possible Knowledge(History): 25 Linguistics: 23
Delia (Hannah) HP: 87/87; AC 23/16/18; CMD 29 d20=12 ; d20=1 ; Monday February 22nd, 2021 1:44:48 AM
Delia's eyes start glossing over ever so slightly at the magic and ancient language talk, though appreciating her party members who can understand past her mundane knowledge. With her upbringing she has very little useful head knowledge past survival and ways to kill things better.
When the page enters she watches the interaction with interest and immediately tries to listen in on the conversation and read the Overlord's reaction, which she does not do well.
============================= Perception to hear whispers: 31 (35) (12+19 +4 for favored enemy (human) if applicable) Sense Motive for the Overlord: 4 (nat 1+3... yikes)
Ohen Kuldrven (Jacob H) HP: 83/83, AC: 22 (14T, 20 I, 20F, 19CMD); Permanent: Arcane Sight(120'), Darkvision(60'), See Invis, Perc +15 d20+1=10 ; Monday February 22nd, 2021 3:41:11 AM I do know Draconic, but with there being just a few letters left it's difficult to deduce anything..."
Ohen will try to think on what he learned form his arcane sight and the letters and see if he can figure anything out.
Micah (John) HP: 90/90 AC: 27/12/27 CMD:20 Monday February 22nd, 2021 8:50:42 AM
Micah frowns in thought as the others describe the letters. [b]"Would it make sense that were the other pieces present, it might have a message?," he asks.
When the messenger enters he takes the opportunity to focus his truesight on the council members while waiting to hear the news.
=========== autoucceed on spellcraft
Stock (JonM) HP: 125/125; AC: 25/22/16; Per: +17; Surv: +14; SM: +9 Monday February 22nd, 2021 9:15:20 AM
Stock leans in toward Delia again keeping his voice low, "Oh that's interesting. I doubt they would schedule an interruption during this meeting. It's possible something new has happened. Have you ridden a turtle boat before? If we go to the lizardfolk village, we will have to ride one of those beasts..."
Zanderallen (Zachary H) 119/119 AC: 29 T: 13 FF: 28 CMD: 24 d20+5=25 ; Monday February 22nd, 2021 2:30:56 PM
Zanderallen eyes the incoming feather token and page, curious what information is being shared. With their immediate investigation finished and ways to track the other pieces leading nowhere, he ponders any other steps than to go view the chamber and see if any other clues were left behind. ------- Spellcraft 25
DM Robert - DUM DUM DUMMMMM (dropping all the other shoes) Monday February 22nd, 2021 8:12:03 PM
Stoph waits Bartomus tries to listen in but also asks a question. Sid thinks about the script. Delia tries to listen in. Ohen thinks but nothing really comes to mind. Mican wonders, and scans the council. Stock seems giddy with barely contained excitement. Zanderallen contemplates the next step. _____________
Bartomus is not able to hear anything because after he asked the question of Tanglefoot he answered. "What? Oh, I'm sorry Bartomus but I don't get back home much. My place is here overseeing the relations with the Float." He seems distracted. Perception 15 Highlight to display spoiler: {His hand holding the note is visibly shaking.}
Delia overhears, Highlight to display spoiler: {Belkior,"yes, send him in immediately, wait inform the overlord first." The page then says to the overlord, "My Lady, there is a beastfolk here claiming to be from the beastfolk village and says they are in dire need of assistance." to which Aerashkiel replies,"send him or her in now."}
Malici still thinking expounds, [b]"I believe there were actually two types of orcs the dragon was just getting ready to experiment on when I escaped. One was the normal type that I'm sure you're all familiar with. But the other was something new that the Crying Wood just starting....hatching...., anyway it was purple colored and rather a plant than an animal."
Micah scans the council but they are all as they seem, no illusion or magics going on there.
Tanglefoot stands and seems a bit unsure of his footing. "My lords and ladies, I've just received a note from Slythyl (the Lizard folk druid leading the lizard folk). He informs me that a day ago there was another calamity at Rivertown. It was attacked by pirates! It was a bunch of Bugbears in a dragon boat (Viking long boat, paddles, shields, 1 sail). They were driven off but they did manage to steal a goodly amount of commodities. They came from up river and then headed down river away from Riverton and into Turtle Lake."
Much harumphing ensues.
Malici looks upward and taps his chin, Perception "listen" 20 Highlight to display spoiler: {"Hmm, yes possibly a bugear or two was imprisoned in a stockade."}
Then the main double doors open and being helped by some plainly dressed men in is a disheveled beastfolk that you recognize as Jasper (your one time butler/valet, one of the beastfolk 'ratter' that left with all of them to form their new city.). Perception 20, or Heal 15, Highlight to display spoiler: {You can tell he's on the verge of collapse, dehydration, fatigue, his clothes are torn there are numerous cuts and abrasions.} Knowledge Local on the plainly dressed men 15 Highlight to display spoiler: {They are fisherman you've seen them around the fence level.}
Jasper starts speaking and his words are slurred and his eyes are having trouble focusing, "My lords I beg aid of you we need the Silver Shields. Our village is under attack, besieged. Four days now, I've been running through the woods, had to swim some, found boat..." he sinks to knees.
Gasps from the council.
Then shortly following so closely behind him you see Torbin Cook slightly out of breath as if he's been running. He slides past Jasper and the two men with him and goes straight to Sid. "There's been trouble in Cutter!" He waves a piece of paper that looks strangely like the note from a feather token spell. Man if one group or another had some faster means of communication, like some a ring gate."There were attacked a day ago by a horde of Orcs. Well armed orcs, there was much looting and murdering before they headed north into the woods."
Bartomus(Rod) HP: 76/76 AC 19; CMD 20 Melee +8;Perc+12;Heal+9 d8+1 d20+12=19 ; d20+12=24 ; d20+7=9 ; Monday February 22nd, 2021 10:05:29 PM
Bartomus nodded understandingly to Tangelfoot's confession, but he also noticed that the Lizardfolk had a tight hold on the note and that his hand was shaking. Something wasn't right, the Taur thought to himself.
Then, like a heavy downpour upon an iced slope, the bad news kept coming. Tanglewood's news was that of pirates, bugbear pirates at that using the lake and the river.
But, the bad news was not over and the deluge continued with the return of a former trusted staffer. Jaspar looked terrible, haggard, and exhausted. Bartomus stood from his chair as the beastfolk collapsed to the floor. "Jaspar!
Cook's arrival only added to the growing calamity. "All of this is too much to be mere coincidence, but you said the dragon was dead, so who would have inherited his abilities and his allies?"
Bartomus pointed at Malici as he asked his question.
Bartomus(Rod) HP: 76/76 AC 19; CMD 20 Melee +8;Perc+12;Heal+9 d8+1 d20+12=19 ; d20+12=24 ; d20+7=9 ; Monday February 22nd, 2021 10:05:30 PM
Bartomus nodded understandingly to Tangelfoot's confession, but he also noticed that the Lizardfolk had a tight hold on the note and that his hand was shaking. Something wasn't right, the Taur thought to himself.
Then, like a heavy downpour upon an iced slope, the bad news kept coming. Tanglewood's news was that of pirates, bugbear pirates at that using the lake and the river.
But, the bad news was not over and the deluge continued with the return of a former trusted staffer. Jaspar looked terrible, haggard, and exhausted. Bartomus stood from his chair as the beastfolk collapsed to the floor. "Jaspar!
Cook's arrival only added to the growing calamity. "All of this is too much to be mere coincidence, but you said the dragon was dead, so who would have inherited his abilities and his allies?"
Bartomus pointed at Malici as he asked his question.
Stock (JonM) HP: 125/125; AC: 25/22/16; Per: +17; Surv: +14; SM: +9 d20+17=31 ; d20+3=11 ; Tuesday February 23rd, 2021 8:57:53 AM "Yep. Let's find a boat...OK then we have a siege at the Beastfolk village...sorry what is the name of it again?...an attack on Cutter and an attack on Riverton. Seems like the two most obvious courses here are either to track down the pirates sailing around Our Lake or to try to lift the siege...I'll vote for the siege myself."
======== Perception vs DC15 Autopass Perception 31 vs DC20 Local 11 vs DC15
Micah (John) HP: 90/90 AC: 27/12/27 CMD:20 d20+4=18 ; d20+4=14 ; d20+8=15 ; Tuesday February 23rd, 2021 10:25:33 AM
Micah starts when the news of the raid on Riverton is shared. His first instinct is to go to their aid immediately. Before anything on that front can even be discussed, he sees Jaspar. Noticing the beastfolk's condition, he rushes to his aid, casting cure light wounds on his friend.
At the third report of calamity Micah's face grows stern as he states aloud the old adage, "Once is happenstance. Twice is coincidence. Three times is enemy action."
He turns to Stock, replying, "I am inclined to agree. The other attacks were raids and, presumably, the immediate threat is passed. The siege is still a situation we could possibly aid. However." He pauses for emphasis before proceeding, "Before we going haring off, I think we should consider that perhaps the real risk is here and these are all diversions to get the Shields out of the way."
He then turns to face Malici. "You say that you felt a sudden desire to come to the Float. I cannot help but wonder if whatever may be happening will focus here and these other tragedies are but a diversion.
Perception 18 vs DC 15 succeed Perception 14 vs DC 20 fail Heal 15 vs DC 15 success Spontaneously cast CLW on Jaspar using doom slot.
Zanderallen (Zachary H) 119/119 AC: 29 T: 13 FF: 28 CMD: 24 d20+7=16 ; d20+7=17 ; d20+5=24 ; d20+1=5 ; d6=2 ; d6=4 ; d6=5 ; d6=5 ; d6=4 ; Tuesday February 23rd, 2021 3:08:05 PM "We encountered some of these purple orcs in the crying woods. They were working with a crime boss here in the city to grow unusual plants that whose seeds when made into flour dropped people into a suggestive state."
Zanderallen then reels from the incoming reports of attacks, but his first concern is Jasper. Supporting him from the opposite side of Micah he lays his hands on the worst of his wounds, "Domi strengthen you Jasper, it won't make up for proper rest but it should give you the strength to tell us what happened."
He listens very gravely to Micah before speaking up himself, "But we can't leave Jasper's people without aid. Even if it is a diversion we can't sacrifice the beastfolk out of fear. How quickly can we reach the Beastfolk village?" ----------------------- Perception 16 Perception 17 Heal 24 Know Local 5
Lay on Hands heals 20 and removes Fatigue, Shaken, Disease, and Poison
Delia (Hannah) HP: 87/87; AC 23/16/18; CMD 29 Tuesday February 23rd, 2021 5:29:06 PM
Delia's sharp gaze darts around the room, taking in the shaking hand of Tanglefoot, overhearing the whispers of the page, the muttering about Bugbears of Malici, and the ragged state of Jasper.
As everyone is trying to figure out the best course of action, she speaks up, "Didn't we ask if there was a threat to the Float? And if I remember right, it was only an indirect one. The surrounding area having multiple, separate threats sounds like it fits that bill. Either way, we can't abandon any of those who need our help." She pauses, weighing the threats in her mind, "It's hard to cover the tracks of an army, so even if the Hobgoblin trail goes kinda cold, we should still be able to find them. So... I'm with Stock. The siege on the Beastfolk seems like the most pressing danger to me."
Delia looks at Ohen, "Do you have any teleportation magic that we could use to return immediately if something started threatening the Float?"
============= Autosucceed perception checks
Sid(Andrew) HP: 66/66; AC: 19/16/14; CMB: 7; CMD: 22 Speed: 30ft, Swim 30ft.) d20+16=34 ; d20+16=23 ; d20+17=35 ; d20+19=31 ; Tuesday February 23rd, 2021 5:32:41 PM
Sid clasps Cook's arm and helps to steady him. "Don't worry, we'll do what we can for our people there. Take a moment and collect yourself. Many things are afoot." Sid then walks over to Tanglefoot, and grabs their arm in a way that is meant to be comforting. "And don't worry, you and your people are our friends and won't be forgotten." If the moment presents itself he will try to take the clenched note from his hand, and walk back to the group of the shields.
Slight of Hand: 31 ((Wish me luck as I'm pretty sure this is the first time I've done this.))
Stohp (John H subbing) Tuesday February 23rd, 2021 6:31:07 PM
Stohp listens as the bad news keeps coming. "Threes. They always come in threes," she says.
She lets out a sigh as she adds, " I guess its Silver Shields to the rescue."
DM Robert - "I guess its Silver Shields to the rescue." Tuesday February 23rd, 2021 8:07:47 PM
Bartomus seems confused. Stock votes to raise the siege (there is no name, MikeK didn't name it. I think it does need a name though) Micah does some healing and asks some questions. Zanderallen aids in some healing and asks about rescuing the beastfolk. Delia is for raising the siege as well. AS to communication they have relied on Feather Tokens in the past but the party also has a pair of ring gates...unless you sold them. Sid does some consoling and snatches a note. Stohp decries the resonance of threes. Ohen?
-------------------------- Malici cocks his head at Bartomus's question. "you said the dragon was dead, so who would have inherited his abilities and his allies?""Bartomus, I'm not sure what you're referring too, the dragon is dead, what makes you think any of this is the responsibility of the dragon?" He turns to Micah, "I was not compelled to come to the Float, rather I was compelled to come to the Crying Woods, or rather this area. Once here I have been unable to determine what next to do. I came to the Float because from my reading it was the only known point of civilization in the area. However, I will say I have no desire to leave the area either."
Paragon Belkior comes from the council table and also see's to Jasper. Though between Micah and Zanderallen most of the damage has been healed. Belkior pats the little fellow on the back and turns to face everyone. "I think it is of utmost importance to aid the beastfolk, after all they were but recently citizens of the Float. I think whether they still are is a question for later."
Lord Rothchild quips, "We've survived many years without these adventurers. I'm sure our city guard are more than capable of handling anything that would threaten the Float directly."
Overlord Aerashkiel stands, "I think it's apparent that the greatest threat is to the beastfolks village. Silver Shields I think that is where you should concentrate your efforts. I'm fairly certain all these threats are related."
Malici states, "I feel this is true as well." He holds up his quarter of the medallion. 'If the medallion split itself equally then there are three other parts. Thus three other individuals compelled to come to the area. Unfortunately it appears that these other children of the dragon have a goodly following of unsavory types. I offer my services to accompany you in your quests."
Lord Gordo shakes his head, "We have no quick means of transport or teleport to where the beastfolk have made their new home."
One of the fishermen speaks up, "Well now I know that with sails up our fishing boats are as fast as them turtles. However, when we put the oars out we can beat them in straight runs."Anyone have sailor as a profession?
Knowledge Geography 15 Highlight to display spoiler: {The shields will have to cross Turtle Lake and then go through the woods. Crossing the lake would take a day. Jasper can lead you and avoid any pitfalls. A forced march would get them there in 2 days, but leave them with the party fatigued (-2 str and dex), Jasper being smaller would have longer to travel because he'd be the slowest of you.}
Bartomus(Rod) HP: 76/76 AC 19; CMD 20 Melee +8;Perc+12;Heal+9 d8+1 d20+5=9 ; Tuesday February 23rd, 2021 10:02:11 PM
Bartomus looked at Malici with a bit of uncertainty. Some of this was just not adding up and he had a bit of suspicion about the new found colleague that they were apparently going to be taking along with them.
"So we go by sail then, though I would have loved to ride a turtle again," Bartomus added. Then he turned to look at the Paragon. "Sir, by any chance have you and your esteemed colleagues established any official relations with the MereKing? It might be something where they could provide us some information on the number of these boats and such. They might even encourage some of the underwater types to help us keep the marauders on the shore."
Failed KnowGeo w/ 9
Stock (JonM) HP: 125/125; AC: 25/22/16; Per: +17; Surv: +14; SM: +9 Wednesday February 24th, 2021 9:09:01 AM "That is a fabulous point Bart. It could be even that the merfolk help track down the pirates and provide some sort of surveillance over the area around the float. I would say they owe us a favor or two..."
To Ohen he says, "Yes, some kind of teleportation would be a nice cherry on top so that we could return quickly as needed. I don't think we could travel through the ring gates but we could certainly get information quickly through it."
Zanderallen (Zachary H) 119/119 AC: 29 T: 13 FF: 28 CMD: 24 d20+1=19 ; Wednesday February 24th, 2021 12:57:37 PM
Glad to see that all seem to be in agreement that going to the aid of the beastfolk is the top priority Zanderallen turns to the fisherman that spoke up, "How quickly can you get a boat ready? With plenty of crew to keep the oars manned. Tell them there's 5 gold a head for a hard days rowing and 20 gold for you if we leave before sunset." Zanderallen turns to the rest of the Shields, "We can rest on the ship and be ready to start a forced march as soon as we make reach the shore. With any luck we can make it in two days." He hands the man 10 gold to show he's not lying about the price offered and arranges where on the docks to meet him.
He raises an eyebrow at Malici's offer to join them. On the one hand he was an unknown, and on the other bringing him along would allow them to keep an eye on him. "Malici, your offer is appreciated, but I hope I offer no offense in saying you are somewhat of an unknown. If you would be willing to let me gauge your heart I think it would help put our minds at ease." If Malici acquiesces Zanderallen will Detect Evil on him and the medallion, positioning himself so that no one else is caught in the effect, as much as he wishes to scan the council. He shares what he finds with the party by the usual hand sign. ------------------------------ Know(Geo): 19
Zander's pay offer is purposely way high for an expected day's wage.
(OOC: I know we were going to sell the ring gate, as situationally useful as they can be, they're not worth the huge price tag against somebody's WBL. But I don't know if they've actually been sold yet.)
Delia (Hannah) HP: 87/87; AC 23/16/18; CMD 29 d20=1 ; Wednesday February 24th, 2021 3:29:07 PM "I'm ready to leave immediately. Plus, once we get to the woods, I can help with navigation and keeping us safe."
She'll look in sympathy at the small, weary Jasper and then at the party in general, gaze lingering on the two big Taur, "If a forced march is too hard for the brave little one who came to warn us, could we try to carry him? Or bring a riding dog or something so that he doesn't have to go through the same ordeal?"
(OOC: As a ranger, I get the Endurance feat, so would I still automatically suffer from the ill effects of a forced march?)
================= Know (geo): 17 (1+16)
Ohen Kuldrven (Jacob H) HP: 83/83, AC: 22 (14T, 20 I, 20F, 19CMD); Permanent: Arcane Sight(120'), Darkvision(60'), See Invis, Perc +15 d20+1=5 ; Wednesday February 24th, 2021 3:58:02 PM
Ohen is reeling with the influx of information, but is able to respond to Delia.
"Teleportation is certainly an interest of mine, but I've never quite gotten it to work any farther than a few hundred feet. Perhaps I can work on it more during the journey."
"I agree, the siege is the most pressing. Three attacks and three tokens is too much of coincidence, however, so I expect we will be investigating all of these eventually."
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ 5 failed Geography
Will learn teleport next level
Stohp (John H subbing) Wednesday February 24th, 2021 5:25:39 PM
Stohp listens to the others, but something Malici said struck her. "Three attacks in the area. Three others compelled to the area. I get it. You think each attack is led by one of the other subjects."
Micah tenses at Zanderallen's suggestion, awaiting Malici's reaction. He then adds to the paladin's request, "While we are acting so suspiciously, perhaps having Ohen take a look in the magical spectrum might be informative as well. That is, if you do not object, sir," he adds with a nod to the half dragon. "Please understand, no disrespect is intended, but dangerous times warrant abundant caution."
=============== Diplomacy check 39 to convince Malici to acquiesce to the magical investigation.
Sid(Andrew) HP: 66/66; AC: 19/16/14; CMB: 7; CMD: 22 Speed: 30ft, Swim 30ft.) d20+19=32 ; Wednesday February 24th, 2021 6:03:44 PM
Sid will look at the note in a non obvious fashion once he is back in the group with the Shields.
LOG ON