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An Old Fashioned Herbal Remedy

Scene 0 - Introductions are made

DM RobC
Sunday July 5th, 2020 10:23:00 PM
It's been 30 minutes.

You were told to be here at 9am. Well, that's what your regular contact told you. Get yourself to Lowestoft and be at Lockridge Mansion at 9am in two days time for a job that promises fortune and fame. That was all they had to say though. No other details.

Getting here was easy. The town of Lowestoft is nestled on the northern side of the Eyre peninsula between the Shelldare Mountains and the Southland Sea. You had all sorts of ways to get here.

You arrived a few hours ago just as the fishing boats were unloading their hauls to the merchants already waiting by the docks. The town had a very serene atmosphere to it. There was no squabbling or arguing or cutting ahead at the stalls. Everyone was smiling, knowing full well there was no need to rush and that there was more than enough food to go around.

You noticed the same as you made your way through the town. Everyday people going about their everyday lives, happy and carefree. The houses and shops all in perfect condition, the streets clean, no signs of any trouble whatsoever, strangers smiling to acknowledge you, and was that the barber singing as you went past? It was like something from a story book.

Finding the mansion was easy too. Lockridge Mansion is nestled atop a hill overlooking the town. From the outside it looked very elegant. Two stories tall and built with white stone bricks, large rectangle windows, and a grey shingled rooftop. The house itself is surrounded by a modest garden. Manicured grass, a few flower patches, a sandbox and a seesaw. The whole place screams "I've got gold".

It took a minute for anyone to open the large oak door. The person who answered it was a charming young housemaid. A half-elf girl with short braided red hair, brown eyes, and wearing a charcoal coloured dress - the kind you would typically see on a household maid. "Please come in"

The foyer is truly what you would expect of such a place. Dark hardwood floors, some antique side tables beside some padded leather chairs, silver candelabras, oil paintings of people you’ve never seen before. One of those fancy rugs on the floor. Everything clean and well tended.

Behind you is the exit and there are closed doors on either side of the room. At the opposite end is a large marble stairway that leads to the upper floor.

She gestures to the chairs at the edge of the room. "Mr Page will be with you shortly. Please wait here". With a nod she exits through one of the side doors, closing it behind her.

You can see that a few other people are already waiting here (OOC: The others in the party)

It’s been 30 minutes.

Zeoll | Twist: Greensinger | Cayzle
Monday July 6th, 2020 11:23:05 AM

Zeoll looks around at the assembled people, and bows deeply.

"My new frriends, I am Zeoll, a grreensingerr." The word rolls around in his mouth, not just because of his accent, but as if he had never said it before.

The liontaur is in a hale middle age, with grey beginning to touch his mane. He has leather armor and a shield, a pair of packs on his hindquarters, a big quiver filled with spears on his back, and a coil of rope at his belt.

"Well met, I say, and I am glad indeed to be herre among you."

SteveM - unvetted Elron
Monday July 6th, 2020 7:47:04 PM
"Well, Zeoll! Fancy meetin' you here!" "Lookin' younger, too." Everyone gets the impression that the last phrase was intended only for himself, as Elron said it much less loudly, but it was still clear

A white, chicken-ish beastfolk struts up and pumps Zeoll in a vigorous handshake. "Whaddaya think of this place? You can’t go wrong in making your front entrance a good design representin' for the rest of your home. O' course, two-story foyers is nice, with view of an upper landin'. Seein' how but these are typically found in luxury homes, I ain't never got to be in one before. The widow had a nice home, but this one's high-falootin'."

After a moment of sociability, Elron returns to his gawking at the place.

Honor Bright (Kathy)
Monday July 6th, 2020 8:49:42 PM
Honor frowns at the message. "Fortune and fame?" she says. "Why would anyone think I was interested in fortune and fame?"

The messenger doesn't know.

"But...but maybe it's a good cause?" Honor looks at the messenger with hopeful blue eyes. "Maybe there are good folk in need of help? Or evil that must be defeated?"

The messenger doesn't know.

"I mean," Honor turns her eyes back to the message, "if they wanted mercenaries, why not hire the Mailed Fist? Surely it's easier."

The messenger doesn't know. All she knows is, she delivered her message and she still hasn't received a tip.

"Oh, sorry." Honor digs out some coins. "Thank you." The messenger departs, and Honor goes back to frowning at the message. "How very odd," she says. "I suppose I should keep looking."

She puts the message aside, but it nags at her. Maybe there really are good people in need of help. Or evil to be defeated. Maybe they're just saying "fame and fortune" because they really need adventurers and they think that's the way to get them.

"Of course," Honor tells herself, "that will likely put me in a company of mercenaries and glory hounds. But maybe I could be a good example for them. Maybe, over time, they could grow to be good people. Maybe that is the good I'm expected to do."

So, she sets off a little late, but she does, eventually, set off.

Everything about Lowestoft delights her. "Good morning," she calls cheerfully to the townsfolk. "Nice day, isn't it?" Watching the fisherman for a moment, she says, "Good catch today?"

What with one thing and another, she arrives at the mansion on the late side. Maybe not actually tardy, but later than she'd intended. She steps into the foyer and looks around with wide, delighted blue eyes. She is a tall, blonde woman in chain mail, with a sword at her belt and a shield by her side.

"Good morning," she says to the group assembled there. "My name's Honor."

Asimov | Hugh | technomancer
Tuesday July 7th, 2020 3:33:56 AM
Asimov still didn't know how he got to the Wold. One day he was minding his business on a colony world as a mechanic for one of the corporations, he had purposely forgotten which one and the next well he was here. Sure things were a little primitive compared to what he was used to but there was actually opportunity here. He could make something of himself without necessarily being beholden to anyone and this job with its promise of fortune and glory seemed like just that.

Plus his experience and training from his time outside the Wold combined with whatever it was about this place allowed him to do things no one around here had ever seen and hopefully as he learned more he could continue to develop his unique skillset.

As Asimov walked down the streets of Lowestoft he thought about how despite being different from where he had come from this town was decently maintained not like the town he had come from where it seemed like everything was falling apart and there wasn't enough to go around.

As He looked up at the fancy mansion and lets out a low whistle. He had never been to the planet the board was based on but he imagines that must be what all the houses were like there.

He entered the room the maid servant showed him into and sees a lion-man, a chicken-man, and an athletic looking human woman. The thing that took him the most to get used to were the people that didn't look like people. In the colonies everyone was human, well it was debatable if the members of the board were, but that had more to do with how they treated people and less to do with their appearance. Here though there were orcs, taurs, beast-folk, elves, halflings, gnomes, dwarves among others. Many were humanoid but not all were human and he was ok with that.

He nods at the assembled group and says, "Name's Asimov. I'm a tinkerer of sorts. Pleased to meet you"

Asimov is a young (17 year old) male human. He is wearing boots, wool breeches, a shirt, a hooded cloak with the hood lowered and leather armor. He has a belt that looks sturdy but also seems to contain a lot of strange looking pockets. His blonde hair is pulled back into a ponytail and a hook nose sits prominently on his face. Something dances behind his green eyes. He stands 5 foot 6 inches tall.

Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant (Kim)
Tuesday July 7th, 2020 4:43:08 AM

Tall and fair of freckled skin, she walks easily down the streets of the welcoming town. Her twin braids show off hair a mixture of auburn and lighter red with a few dark blond highlights. Her cheekbones are high. A deep dark green dress(*) provides modest yet form-fitting cover, with florid embroidery a bit above the bottom, and echoed on each side of the bodice, itself backed with a white woolen blouse. A clean line of narrow embroidery flows from waist to the bottom design, matching the colors above and below. A metal linked belt sits at her waist and holds a pouch just in front of her left hip. A bag ties to the upper part of a 7 foot staff. Her head tops the staff by four inches. She might not be called beautiful by all, yet appears comely. What some might call a handsome woman. Perhaps formidable.

She pauses to take in the barber's song, and smiles. She listens enough to pick up the tune, and hums it for a few blocks.

She arrives at the designated appointment. She looks at the chairs the half elf girl offered. She decided to remain standing. She listened to the introductions people made.

Then she took a turn. "Good dayin, all. Zeoll - a lion man, and a singer, too. A rooster man who talks more than roooo-roo-roo, roo-rooooo. Good dayin to you. And a woman of honor. Honor is good. Important. Without honor, better to take care of pigs.

"And a tinker boy. Asimov? Glass over eyes - see better? Because eyes green? Good dayin, Asimov."

She looks about the waiting area for a few more minutes. "Oh. They call me Mundhildur Karadottir. Good dayin."
=============
(*) Note - the link shows a black dress, but hers is dark green. Also, she does not have the headdress, nor is the model's face hers. Otherwise, that's a pretty fair representation

DM RobC - "Whaddaya think of this place?"
Tuesday July 7th, 2020 5:30:12 AM
The party gather and start to greet each other. Elron and Zeoll go back some time, however everyone else looks to be meeting for the first time.

There doesn't appear to be much going on in this mansion. Very quiet and uneventful.

Finally you hear the faint closing of a door come from upstairs, followed by footsteps of someone going towards the stairs.

A man in quite modest attire descends the staircase, light of step and head held high. No doubt lots of practice or training are behind his moves. You can tell he is one of the servants of the house. He appears to be on the younger side of middle aged. Late 30s perhaps? As you would expect he is meticulously well groomed. His brown hair has been perfectly cut and his moustache well trimmed. The clothes he wears are much fancier than you would expect from a common servant.

When he reaches the bottom of the staircase he pauses to give a bow, bending only at the hips, before standing fully upright again "Please forgive the inordinate amount of time you have had to wait. I am Mr Gideon Page" His voice is quite deep and strong, and every word he says is pronounced very clearly. "I am the house steward and valet to the master of the house, the most honorable Marquis de Lockridge. If you would be so kind as to follow me, I will escort you to the lounge where Master Lockridge wishes to speak with you"

He doesn't appear disturbed, confused, or even curious about your very different races. In fact, it's hard to tell what he may be feeling. He is maintaining perfect composure. Gideon walks to the door to right and opens it. As it opens outwards he steps through first and stands next to it, holding the door open with one hand while gesturing into the room with the other "If you would be so kind".

The lounge is another very fine room. Two large couches covered in a supple, dark brown leather sit prominently in the middle of the room. At one end is a large fireplace (currently unlit) while at the other is an oak desk by the window. Two long bookcases filled with thick books and tomes adorn the northern wall. A set of empty glasses and a decanter of brown liquid sit on a silver platter on a table to the side of one of the couches.

There is noone else in the room as yet.

DAVE (Tanner) -- HP 10 | AC 17/16/14 | CMD 16 | F+4/R+5/W+5
Tuesday July 7th, 2020 12:22:28 PM
You see a bipedal, humanoid orchid mantis. His body is covered in a chitinous exoskeleton and ranges in color from white to fuchsia. His body is long, thin, and covered in ridges. His forearms end in serrated scythes, with a small tendril at the end for fine manipulation. His head is triangular, with a mouth made of four sets of mandibles and a pair of eyes that are orange, segmented, and unblinking.

"GREETINGS, HUMANS." His antennae twitch energetically and his head swivels as his eyes take in the room. His voice is loud and metallic, and you can tell his mandibles have to work rather hard to produce Common. "THIS ONE IS CALLED DAVE. IT IS A GOOD NAME, YES? A NORMAL, HUMAN NAME. NOT A MONSTER NAME. DAVE WISHES TO OBTAIN SHINY GOLD BITS. DAVE WELCOMES THE HUMANS INTO A TEMPORARY BAND." The mantid sits stiffly on the couch and folds its limbs into a semblance of a relaxed pose. "DAVE MAY BE APPROACHED FOR SMALL TALK."

Zeoll | Twist: Greensinger | Cayzle
Tuesday July 7th, 2020 8:33:20 PM

Zeoll greets Elron warmly. "It is good to see a familiarr face. And yes, it is also good to be young again, thank you!" He agrees that the look of this place suggests fortune ahead.

When Honor arrives, Zeoll bows and smiles. "A warrior? well met, lady." He introduces himself and Elron.

Zeoll takes an immediate shine to Asimov, and engages him in a conversation about his tinkering. Is it magical? What can he do with it? How does it work? "Forrgive my curiosity," Zeoll says, "that's the cat-parrt of me talking!"

[more to come]

Honor Bright (Kathy)
Tuesday July 7th, 2020 9:42:44 PM
Honor looks around the room, intrigued. She had looked forward to the adventuring life, but she'd never dreamed it would include a giant! Or a lion-man! Or a rooster-man! Or a bug-man! It certainly was a strange group! Eagerly, she starts to get acquainted.

"It's nice to meet you, Zeoll," she says. "I don't believe I've ever met a green-singer. What is that, exactly? Oh. Yes, I suppose you could call me a warrior." She smiles. "What gave it away, the sword or the armor?"

"It's nice to meet you, Elron," she says. "Yes, this is a really nice place. Great-Grandfather's house is nice, but it's not this big!"

"It's nice to meet you, Asimov," she says. "A tinkerer! What do you tinker with?"

"And good day to you, Miss Karadottir," she says. She smiles. "You know, usually I'm the tallest girl in the room. But not today! Where are you from?"

"It's nice to meet you, Dave," she says. "Yes, Dave is a nice name. One of the knights back at the temple is named Dave. Well, Sir David, but it's basically the same. He is a good man. I'm sure you are, too."

Zeoll | Twist: Greensinger | Cayzle
Tuesday July 7th, 2020 9:44:40 PM

Zeoll also bows to Mundhildur. "It is good to meet you, and may I please compliment yourr drress. Verry prretty. And it seems like all of us herre have adventurring skills. What are yourrs, if I may inquirre."

The latecomer -- a mantis person? -- has an unusual affect. Zeoll is happy to play along. "Hello Dave. I like yourr name. I am Zeoll. I am not a human. I have six limbs, like an ant, wasp, or bee. How many limbs do you have?"

"House Stewarrd Page, thank you forr yourr welcome." Once in the study, waiting for the Marquis, Zeoll looks at the books. Are they ornamental or well-read? Any interesting titles?

He converses with Honor, telling her his theory that music lies under and runs through the natural Wold, ties together in harmony, and that he is determined to find the truth of it."

Asimov | Hugh | technomancer d20+5=9 ; d20+8=14 ; d20+8=10 ; d20+8=25 ; d20+8=13 ;
Wednesday July 8th, 2020 12:17:15 AM
Asimov nods thanks to the house steward as he enters the new room.

He then takes in the newest additions to this ragtag crew a mantis-man and a literal giantess. The giantess was ok because she is kind of a large human but the mantis-man seemed reminescent of some of the monsters they said existed on the rugged colonial planet where attempts at terraforming had gone awry. Still this one had a normal name and spoke so maybe it wasn't going to eat everyone. I mean he seems friendly enough so why not give it the benefit of the doubt. It seemed more interested in gold than food for now so maybe they had things in common.

Asimov says to Munhildur who towers over him, "Well met, my er lady. I do not require lenses at this time but some of my inventions are kind of glasses or goggles, though I havent really prepared any of those for today but perhaps if the time is appropriate I can show them to you."

Asimov approaches Dave and asks, "Hi Dave. This may be forward of me in asking but are you not from this planet either?"

Asimov says to the Lion-man, "Well I mean whether it is magical or not is debatable. I mean advanced technology is indistinguishable from magic right? It kind of functions like magic but it is kind of different. As for what I can do with it, well right now I can shoot rays of frost and orbs of acid from 2 different handheld devices or pop a capsule from a bottle that makes me slightly more resistant to peril that could effect my fortitude, reflexes or will power for a limited time. I also have an inhalent prepared that can cure light wounds and a wrist mounted rocket that hits its target unerringly but the inhalent and the rocket are things I can only do once a day each for now. You see I have this book of designs of my inventions and when I follow the schematics I can create machines that do all kind of things"

Asimov says to Honor, "It is nice to meet you too." He reaches into a pocket of his belt and pulls out some gears, wiring and other materials and holds it up. "I tinker with items such as these and produce the devices I just described to Zeoll."

To Elron he says, "Hi Elron. So how do you and Zeoll know eachother?"

When they are in the lounge after exchanging pleasantries with each being in kind Asimov makes his way over to the library and peruses the book titles.

Perception: 9
Linguistics: 14
Know(Engineering: 10)
Appraise: 25
Know(arcana: 13)

SteveM - Elron
Wednesday July 8th, 2020 12:45:49 AM
Elron happily struts into the room that Mr. Gideon Page has shown them, taking in his companions... Zeoll, two human women, an egghead -- he recognizes that type -- and... His eyes widen. Nevermind that the mantid is big, something about him is just so appealing.

"Dave, you say? What's a tays -- a talented young bug like you doin' here?"

DM RobC - "It's nice to meet you, Dave"
Wednesday July 8th, 2020 4:17:44 AM
The party enjoy a little more chit-chat and get-to-know-you's.

Zeoll and Asimov take an interest in the bookcases. They look very well organised. The one on the left has some very interesting books (if you're into these). They are all non-fiction titles and in practically pristine condition. A mixture of historical, geographical and educational books. They are all quite thick books too. Some have the title written in gold inlay, some are written by Lord something or Duchess something-else, some are just covered in red leather. He might not be from around these parts, but Asimov knows that things as nice as these usually aren't cheap. This is quite a valuable collection. Several thousand gold perhaps?

The bookshelf on the right might be more interesting. Books on herbology, witchcraft, magical rituals, religion, and medicine. These ones all have creases in the spines and you can see some of the pages are a little dog-eared even without opening the books. Some of the titles you can't make out - either through wear or because they are written in very foreign languages. Some of these books are no doubt very old.

When all are in the room Gideon closes the door behind him and walks to the desk. He slides open the top drawer and takes out a 6in crystal cube which he carefully places on the center of the desk. It looks perfectly clear and well formed. Gideon touches the top of the cube in what looks like some sort of order, as if pushing a combination of invisible buttons. The cube takes on a gray opaque color and Gideon steps back from the desk and stands at attention.

"Master Lockridge. The interested parties have arrived and are present"

"Thankyou Gideon" A warm, male voice emanates from the cube. It is loud enough to be heard clearly throughout the room. The cube pulses with light with each syllable. "Now then. I apologise for not being there in person, however unavoidable matters have drawn me elsewhere. But to business. I wish to employ you. All of you. There are things that must be done. Things that are important to me.."

That is as far as he gets before the door opens just a little. "Dad?" A young girl, no more than 6 years old, pokes her head into the room. Her voice is quiet and quite high pitched. What you would expect from a child anyway. She is wearing a plain white nightgown and has her long, auburn hair tied back in a ponytail. She looks quite thin and pale, and her eyes are so wide they almost seem too big for her head. Then again, she has just walked in on a meeting with quite a menagerie of races.

The half-elf maid from earlier gently pulls her away from the door, then looks in herself "I'm sorry Mr Page. She got away from me there. We'll leave you in peace". The young girl seems hesitant to go anywhere.

The voice from the cube speaks up "It's ok, Dani. Daddy is just talking with these nice people. You go along with Mrs Reyna now, ok? I won't be long. Oh, and I've found a nice new doll for you. If you're a good girl you can have her when I come home."

The girl smiles and seems resigned to the fact that she will be going. "Love you dad"

"I love you too, poppet. Off you go now"

The door closes as the girl is escorted away from the meeting.

The cube-voice waits a moment before speaking again "Gideon. Would you mind..."

"Already on it, sir" Gideon marches swiftly to the door and locks it, before standing beside it at attention "Apologies sir. I thought I locked it behind me"

"That's fine, Gideon, but please be more careful in the future"

"Of course, sir. It won't happen again"

There is quite a pause now. You can almost hear the sigh from Lockridge. "I suppose that might make things easier to explain though. My daughter, Daniella, is ... well ... she is not well. The prognosis is not good. I have sought advice from the best healers the Wold has to offer. None have any idea what ails her or how to treat it. All agree though. She is not long for this world. My daughter... Dani... She... BY THE GODS WHAT GOOD IS WEALTH IF YOU CAN'T..." Even though he is not present, you can feel he is struggling. He takes a deep breath to compose himself "I'm not prepared to lose her. Where healers have failed I hope others will succeed. I have traveled to every corner of the Wold trying to find a cure. I have spoken with mystics, witches, druids, any who might offer hope. Piece by piece I think I am getting there, but I am only one man. I need help. That is where you all come in. I wish to employ you to help me save her"

Honor Bright (Kathy)
Wednesday July 8th, 2020 7:57:56 PM
Good folk in need of help.

Honor smiles. This is what she was hoping for. She is sure this Master Lockridge is a good person, but even if he turns out not to be, his daughter is an innocent child. She deserves all the help Honor can give her.

"You can count on me, sir," she says.

Zeoll | Twist: Greensinger | Cayzle d20+1=5 ;
Wednesday July 8th, 2020 7:59:36 PM

Privately, and without showing his thoughts, Zeoll considers that the child's appearance seems ... planned? And the father's response ... scripted?

Sense Motive: 5. Probably Zeoll is way off base here, he thinks.

"Marrquis de Lockrridge, the quest to heal a child is a noble and worrthy endeavorr. I would be prroud to embarrk on such a mission. But you seem to have something in mind. Please, tell us morre."

Asimov | Hugh | technomancer
Wednesday July 8th, 2020 11:15:55 PM
Asimov says, "I'm no healer, though I can make a device that will heal minor wounds, but it seems you've already consulted healers and judging by the texts, read up on your problem. You figured out that whatever you need to help your daughter an adventuring party would be a better fit to obtain it as it potentially involves rough trade of sorts? Well if it is within my power I will do what I can to help her."

SteveM - Elron
Wednesday July 8th, 2020 11:26:50 PM
"Cute kid ya got there. I can see why you'd move heaven to help her. But I ain't no doctor, so you're gonna have to clue me in here. What can I do?" Elron speaks more loudly than seems necessary, but then he's talking to someone in a box.

Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant (Kim)
Thursday July 9th, 2020 2:46:20 AM

"I am of the Jotunnar," she answers Zeoll, returning his bow and compliment with a tilt of her head. "Kin of sorts to giants, I am, and kith to many as well," she smiles. "Closer to the giants of storm you may have heard of is my clan. Skills? Oh, a few. I can hit a wolf square in the head with this staff. I make rocks fly swiftly through the air. I can sing rock badger cubs to sleep. I will not boast overmuch of what else I can do. At least for now."

"Woman of honor," she replies to Honor Bright, "I am of Clan Stormur og Sky og Vindur Morguns. We are from mountains a little way off."

When Asimov speaks to her, she says, "That would be well," in response to the notion of showing his inventions of glasses. "Your hair is well in back," she says in admiration for his ponytail. "You must grow it longer still, as a young warrior."

She stiffens as the orchid mantis speaks. Finally she cannot help it. "Do you eat crickets?" she asks DAVE.

Then Gideon manipulates the cube. And a voice comes forth from it. Then the interplay between young daughter and her father's voice ensues. This is all very curious. She thinks of her own father.

The voice of Lockridge tells the story. "An honorable deed," declares Mundhildur. "Help a father save his daughter. I will do this." She lifts the seven-foot-long staff, and strikes the floor. Not with her might, but with a slight emphasis, to mark her purpose. "What must we do?"

DM RobC - "Good folk in need of help."
Thursday July 9th, 2020 6:20:20 AM
One by one the party agree to assist.

Gideon smiles a polite smile (wouldn't be proper to flash his teeth and all) and even puffs his chest out a little. He is in the presence of not just heroes, but those who will save the daughter of the master.

You can hear the relief in Lockridge's voice "Thankyou. Thankyou. Bless you. This is the best news I've had in a long time. And please. None of that Marquis nonsense. You may call me Horatio. You are to be my daughter's saviors after all."

"Gideon. Please fill some glasses for our champions"

Gideon gives a nod to the box and steps to the glasses and decanter. He gestures to each of you in turn, starting with Mundhildur and then Honor "Miss? May I pour you some hymvaren?" before gesturing to the males... and whatever Dave is.

Lockridge speaks up "Properly known as Hymvaren's Luck. That particular one is from the third age I'm told. I managed to salvage a couple of bottles from a ship that had sunk in the Lotophagi ocean. Quite rare and something I only bring out for special occasions. If ever there was a time to wish us luck, it would be now"

Any who partake find the liquor cool, despite having been sitting at room temperature. It is very smooth and easy to drink and doesn't really taste alcoholic at all. After a moment though it hits you. This drink is STRONG.
If you drink...Highlight to display spoiler: {Fort Save vs DC10 to avoid coughing loudly as your throat struggles with the alcohol. Pass or fail, you do feel luckier, and gain a +1 luck bonus on d20 rolls for the next hour}

"Now then. I procured an old manuscript that was found in a collapsed lava tube in the Scab. Domi knows how long it had been buried. It was written in an archaic form of undercommon and described a method of creating a salve that was supposed to cure a wide range of illnesses. The ingredients are very particular and based on what I know of the locations, they may be challenging to acquire."

"Gideon. Would you be so kind as to present them the list?"

Gideon gives a nod to the box. "Of course, sir" Evidently not everyone gets to call him Horatio. Gideon walks back to the desk and takes out a paper envelope and hands it to Mundhildur. Inside is a simple slip of paper with the following written in perfect cursive:
"Moss from the northern side of the Elder Tree in the Highland Forest
Purple Mushrooms from the Stokequet Marsh
Berries from the Silverberry Vine in Fowlsfield Keep"

Lockridge continues "I need you to find those things for me. In return I will use what resources I can to assist you. I will set you up with a house in the town and you will have access to the best food and drink at the tavern. Any equipment you need from the town you will have, including horses or a boat. You may tell the owners that you are representing me and I will pay whatever costs are incurred. Anything not available in the town I will do my best to find and supply you with. Whatever it takes to save Daniella you will have. If.. no.. WHEN she is cured you can name your reward. Anything I own can be yours."

-------------------
OOC: In terms of equipment: anything non-magical and valued at less than 50gp from Core is available to you for free from the shops in town. There are obviously limits in terms of quantity though. This isn't the catacombs. This is a seaside town.

Zeoll | Twist: Greensinger | Cayzle d20+6=8 ; d20+3=11 ; d20+7=12 ; d20+3=20 ; d20+7=19 ; d20+3=8 ;
Thursday July 9th, 2020 8:15:07 AM

"You arre indeed grracious, Horratio. As for this old taurr, I accept yourr offerr, but only forr such items as will aid ourr mission. Let the rrewards come afterr we have gatherred the ingrredients."

After that, retiring to meditate and pray, Zeoll casts Guidance repeatedly as he thinks deeply about the plants and places on Marquis's list, each in turn.

Know Nature: Elder Tree and Moss = 9 [OOC: Left off the +1 from Guidance]
Know Geography: Highland Forest = 11
Know Nature: Purple Mushrooms = 12
Know Geography: Stokequet Marsh = 20
Know Nature: Silverberry Vine = 19
Know Geography: Fowlsfield Keep = 8

"I've been arround this old Wold a time orr two, and I've forrgotten morre than I know. Maybe my semile brrain has turrned up a few bits of lorre to help us." He shares what he knows with his new friends.

By the way, Zeoll does not look all that old. Middle-aged at the eldest. But he talks like someone who is older.

SteveM - Elron d20+4=7 ;
Thursday July 9th, 2020 8:16:39 PM
Elron accepts the drink offered by Gideon with a don't mind if I do and takes a bit more than a discreet sip. Almost immediately, he erupts with spasms of coughing and choking. "Good stuff", he gasps when he's done, in a subdued voice.

The rest of the drink disappears, but he's genteel about it. "It ain't no mint julep, but you really ought to try it."

Although Elron listens to the instructions, he has no idea what they mean. He could recognize moss, and assumes a silverberry vine has berries that are silver, but the places mean nothing to him. He's confident the rest of the group has that covered. "Fowlsfield Keep, eh? Sounds like my kinda place."

Honor Bright (Kathy) d20+4=5 ;
Thursday July 9th, 2020 9:18:47 PM
Honor accepts a glass and takes a tentative sip. Immediately she is red-faced and coughing. It's all she can do to keep from spitting the stuff back up.

"Um...my apologies. I wasn't expecting that." Carefully, she sets the glass aside and does not drink from it again. [Nat 1 on the save, so...yeah.]

Still coughing lightly, she turns her attention to the items on Horatio's list. "I'm not a green-singer like Zeoll," she says, "but even I know that the things we harvest eventually go bad. Mushrooms in particular don't last long at all. Maybe we should get those last?"

Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant (Kim) d20+4=20 ;
Thursday July 9th, 2020 9:51:03 PM

Happy to try this ancient drink, the Jotun lass accepts. She first takes a small sip, and savors it. She then goes at it with gusto. When Honor sets hers aside, she asks, "May I?" If the woman warrior does not object, she downs the extra cup.

Mundhildur accepts the envelope, looks inside and finds the note. She reads aloud the list. At one point she asks, "How do you say this word? Stoak - kwet? Sto-kee - kwet? Stok-uh-kwet? Sto-kwet?" Once Gideon or Lockridge helps her with that, she continues on to the end. She hands the paper to Honor Bright once she stops coughing.

"Berries, also, may not last long. If we pack the items with care and soft things, then that can help preserve for a time. In a cool underground cavern, mushrooms, berries, other such can last for months, even longer at times."

At mention of a house in town, she said, "A house would be good. With high ceilings."

She looks around, then asks Horatio, Marquis de Lockridge, "Can someone give us directions to these places? And is there more to know before we go?"

==========
Fort Save: 20/10 - succeed
Hymvaren's Luck - +1 luck bonus on d20 rolls for next hour

Asimov | Hugh | technomancer d20+4=8 ; d20+5=15 ; d20+5=11 ; d20+5=21 ; d20+9=29 ; d20+9=13 ;
Friday July 10th, 2020 12:16:51 AM
Fort Save: 8

Asimov takes the proferred drink and he sputters as it is all he can do to keep it down.

"Smooth..." he gets out.

Asimov says, "I'm no farmhand or anything but if we get horses maybe we should get something like a cart or wagon to accompany them." He suggests to his new companions.

He says to Horatio, "You mention the ingredients may be hard to procure based on what you know of the locations, care to share what that is? Also I can't help but notice you have quite the nice collection of books over there and some of them are historical and geographical in nature. Might I consult your library in preparation for our venture? I admit though I might need to peruse your books for several hours but perhaps I'll learn something that can help us."

(OOC: Per rules w/ access to a library you may make knowledge checks untrained for DCs higher than 10 with 1d4 hour of study; some libraries may provide circumstantial bonus to the checks; I leave that determination to the kindly DM should the Marquis grant this request)

While he is waiting for the permission of the Marquis to use the man's property he thinks back to if any of these locations or items he's heard of from an arcana perspective.

Know Arcana : anything magical related to Eldertree Moss - 13 (forgot my modifier is +9 w/ drink not +5)
Know Arcana : anything magical related to Highland Forest - 19 (forgot my modifier is +9 w/ drink not +5)
Know Arcana : anything magical related to Purple Mushrooms - 16 (forgot my modifier is +9 w/ drink not +5)
Know Arcana : anything magical related to Stokequet Marsh - 25 (forgot my modifier is +9 w/ drink not +5)
Know Arcana : anything magical related to Silverberry Vine = 29 (remembered the correct modifier)
Know Arcana : anything magical related to Fowlsfield Keep = 13 (remembered the correct modifier)

Active effects:
Hymvaren's Luck - +1 luck bonus on d20 rolls for next hour

DAVE (Tanner) -- HP 10 | AC 17/16/14 | CMD 16 | F+4/R+5/W+5 d20+4=20 ;
Friday July 10th, 2020 3:11:19 AM
DAVE's antennae twitch vigorously in response to Honor's comment. "MANY THANKS! DAVE IS INDEED VERY GOOD -- GOOD AT OBTAINING FOOD, PROTECTING THE NEST, AND FERTILIZING EGGS. ALL DESIRABLE TRAITS IN A BROOD PARTNER. DAVE IS FAMILIAR WITH HUMAN SMALL TALK, AND KNOWS THAT HONOR IS NOT ATTEMPTING TO INITIATE MATING. SUCH AN ACTION WOULD DEVASTATE HONOR'S REPRODUCTIVE ORGANS."

DAVE turns his head questioningly to Zeoll. "DAVE PRESENTLY HAS FOUR LIMBS, BUT HAS LOST SEVEN PREVIOUS LIMBS IN MATING, DUELING, AND HUNTING. HOWEVER, DAVE HAS TAKEN SIXTEEN LIMBS! DAVE UNDERSTANDS HUMAN LIMBS DO NOT REGROW, YES? IS THIS DIFFERENT FOR CAT-HUMANS?"

DAVE answers Asimov. "DAVE IS FROM THIS PLANET. DAVE DOES NOT KNOW WHERE MANTIDS WERE FIRST HATCHED. IT IS A DEEP AND DISTURBING QUESTION, WHOSE ANSWER IS LOST IN THE DIM MISTS OF TIME. EXCELLENT SMALLTALK!"

DAVE turns to answer Elron, but in an instant the mantid is standing on the sofa, his arms held in preparation to strike and his mandibles clattering aggressively. "SKREEEEEE!!" After a moment, he calms and climbs down off the furniture. "PLEASE FORGIVE DAVE. ELRON IS A BIRD-HUMAN, NOT A BIRD. THE RESEMBLANCE IS JARRING. DAVE SEEKS SHINY METAL BITS TO TRADE FOR FOOD AND HEAT. HUMANS GIVE SHINY METAL BITS FOR DAVE TO HUNT. WHY DOES ELRON COME HERE?"

DAVE watched the child intrude into the meeting and exchange words with Master Lockridge. DAVE was familiar with the human habit of extended egg-bonding. They spent years caring for their hatchlings! Err, 'babies'. How terribly inefficient. Especially with one that is sick or wounded. Why doesn't Master Lockridge consume his progeny for energy to produce more? Answers would require further study.

DAVE accepts the drink, lapping the liquor with his third set of mandibles. He seems unfazed. (Fortitude save 20)

After listening to the the proposal, he nods in agreement to questions regarding specifics of their journey.

DM RobC - "Smooth..."
Friday July 10th, 2020 4:48:01 AM
Turns out the drink is quite strong. Almost all who try it start coughing. Only Mundhildur has the fortitude to withstand it's effect.

True heroes that they are, the party are content to deal with any sort of reward once the job is done. First thing first. There's a little girl to save!

Zeoll considers leaving to go meditate on topic, but with everyone else staying and asking more questions it might be rude to leave? His mind is still free to think about the mission at hand however.

Horratio listens patiently while the party ask their questions and make plans. He does his best to answer them in turn.

Elron's quip about the Keep is the first he addresses. "Fowlsfield Keep. Yes, though perhaps FOULSfield keep may better suit it nowadays. If memory serves, I think it acquired its name due to being nestled in the middle of farmland. It has been long deserted now though and fallen quite into disrepair. You hear rumours of course, but they vary. Some say bandits have set up camp there, some say the spirits of soldiers who once called it home. All I can say is that many have gone missing in its surrounds."

There are concerns about the longevity of some of these ingredients. How quickly will they spoil? The mushrooms and berries are of most concern.

"The instructions for the salve did not specify how fresh the ingredients needed to be. There are other ingredients to add to the mix, mind you, but they are all easily acquired. Oils and herbs and such. With it all being ground together I can't imagine that the freshness would matter. It's not going to be eaten."

"The pronunciation for the marsh is interesting. Stoke-kwet is most commonly used. I think it may have been known as Stoke Quiet originally, which has led to both the unusual spelling and pronunciation we have today"

Asimov then has questions about the locations

"Oh the locations are known well enough. They are all to the north-west of here. It would seem the original creator of the salve may have traveled here, so had access to them all for experimentation.

The difficulty in procuring them may be less geographical and more.. hazardous in nature. So many people have gone missing in each of those places that they are generally avoided. The rumours of the keep I have just told you. The marsh is supposedly inhabited by witches who practice dark arts. Not the kind to be taken lightly. The forest itself is lovely. We've spent many a happy summers walking through it or having a picnic on the edge. It's around the Elder Tree though that it isn't entirely safe. There have been all sorts of reports for what lurks there. Some say it is the home of some unspeakable horror. One man swore he saw a demon there.

So you see while the places are easy to travel to, they may not be entirely safe to do so. Gideon, the map please"

Gideon retrieves a large piece of rolled up paper from the desk and hands it to Honor. It is a map of the local area with the locations clearly indicated on it. The map is in color and on paper - not parchment. Nothing but the best in this household. Highlight to display spoiler: {OOC: Am I proud of this map? Yes. Yes I am :) You can even zoom in a little}

Mundhildur puts in a request for the house.

"Of course. The house I have made available to you is at the bottom of the hill, and by the houses of the good people of the town. Two stories, eight bedrooms and private stabling behind. It is furnished and I had the larder stocked in anticipation you would accept the cause. If there is anything missing or that needs to be adjusted, please let me know"

Asimov and Zeoll both come to the same conclusion about the marsh: a ley line runs right through it. With that in mind, Asimov suspects that it could have some influence on the mushrooms there. Perhaps it makes them special in some way? Could that be why they are a necessary ingredient?

Asimov does recall reading a book during his study that comes to mind. The good news is that he can't remember anything 'magical' about the forest. Unless you consider nature to be magical, in which case it is as magical as any other non-Culverwood forest. As for silverberries, although they are very rare they do grow in other places in the Wold. Why the ones from the keep are so special you aren't sure.

"Of course you can have full access to the library. Study as much as you like. Whatever will help you succeed. However I do have one small condition. A request if you will." Horatio's voice becomes a little more serious in tone "Daniella has good days and bad days. Today was a good day. She was able to walk and to speak. On the bad days I pray that she lives to see another. She knows she is ill, but she does not know the prognosis. I want her to be happy and to believe everything will be ok. You are not to let her know she is dying. That is a conversation I will have with her only when hope has gone. It's a conversation I pray never to have."

There is silence for a moment before he continues "So then. Is there anything else you need?"

Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant (Kim)
Friday July 10th, 2020 12:08:02 PM

A tear forms and falls from Mundhildur's eye as she hears the father's plea. "We promise, Horatio father of Daniella." She is choked up for a moment.

After regaining her composure, she says, "Those who wish to read and study here may do so. Who will come with me, look at the house, and begin to gather provisions for our journey? And, let us set a time to meet again. Shall we gather for evening eating?"

SteveM - Elron
Friday July 10th, 2020 3:59:16 PM
Elron isn't interested in reading, but he does like looking at maps. He hops up from his seat to take a gander. After not much more than a brief glance at this one, he says, "Bandits, shmandits -- Looks, I say, looks to me like we ought to take the road straight to Fowlsfield Keep and follow it back around past th'othah spots. At least that'd mean the least amount of time travellin' with th'ingredients if we're worried 'bout 'em bein' fresh."

"Munhilduh,", he says, the mispronunciation due to his accent and not intending any insult, "I would be dee-lited to accompany you to see the house."

But then another thought occurs to him, "Mistah Horatio, how long have you lived here in Lowestoft?"

Honor Bright (Kathy)
Friday July 10th, 2020 11:35:24 PM
Honor looks at the map, then hands it to Asimov. The clever people should probably be in charge of it.

"It looks like the Elder Tree will be our first stop," she says. "Um...Horatio, you mentioned that you had been to the Highland Forest before. There aren't any roads or trails in the forest marked on the map. Do you know of any?"

As Elron and Mundhildur get ready to head for the house, Honor looks at her other companions. "I'm not terribly clever," she says, "but I could probably help with research."

Zeoll | Twist: Greensinger | Cayzle
Friday July 10th, 2020 11:40:24 PM

Zeoll suggests that since this is a ley line, we need a witch to suss it out.

"Maybe we can find one in town orr nearr by."

Asimov | Hugh | technomancer d4=1 ; d20+4=18 ; d4=1 ; d20+4=15 ; d4=3 ; d20+4=22 ; d20+4=6 ; d4=3 ;
Saturday July 11th, 2020 3:56:44 AM
To Horatio he says, "I will not tell your daughter. I do have one last question. May I come back to peruse your library each day until we leave? It may take a while for me to work through fields I am not practiced in"

Asimov says, "Thank you my dear." as Honor hands him the map. He looks at it briefly and says to everyone, "We could start at the Elder tree and work our way out or we could go to the keep and work our way in. Does anyone know if that path that leads into the Shelldare mountains from here has a twin on the other side? If we can't cut through the mountains to get to or from the keep we might as well start at the Elder tree after all."

He then starts looking at Horatio's book collection. Coming back with a small stack of books related to geography, history and herbology.

1 hour:
Know [Geography] - 18; Does the path that leads to the Shelldare mountains from Lowestoft have a corresponding exit on the otherside; ie is there a passage; cave system, trail, w/e that leads through the mountains without requiring some sort of difficult clime
1 hour:
Know [Nature]: Things concerning the Elder tree and its moss - 15

3 hours:
Know [Geography]: Things concerning the Highland Forest - 22

3 hours:
Know [History]: Historically significant events in Highland Forest - 6

Asimov gets lost in the books and before long 8 hours have past. He heads to meet the others at the house to share what he's discovered if anything.

DM RobC - "I would be dee-lited to accompany you to see the house"
Monday July 13th, 2020 3:53:13 AM
Horatio addresses the remaining questions, starting with Elron: "I was raised here in fact. This house has been in my family for at least three generations. If you're after a specific number of years, well, let's just say I'm no spring chicken". You'd place him over well over thirty years old, possibly into his forties.

Honor's question is answered more accurately however. "The forest? Well, the road to the west passes alongside the forest but there aren't any such roads within it. You might find a trail or two towards the outer edges but nothing that ventures far inside. For the most part it is how nature created it."

He has an offer for Asimov "Of course, sir. If it would aid you though, you are free to borrow whichever books you think would be of use to you. I only ask that you try to return them in the same condition" He is trusting you with some very expensive books after all.

With the questions asked and answered, Horatio has one final thing to say. "I'm afraid I didn't catch your names. I can't very well continue to refer to you simply as 'heroes'. Gideon, please take a note of the names of our champions and see to it that the others in town know that they represent me."

"If there is nothing else then I won't keep you. May the Gods watch over you and you return successful."

The cube returns to its clear appearance. Gideon picks it up and places it back in the desk. He picks up a small book and a quill from inside the desk and looks to the party. Despite hearing you refer to each other by name he doesn't presume anything "If it pleases you, what names shall I note?" He stands ready to write down whatever name each person wishes to go by.

Assuming that all goes well, Gideon closes the book and tucks it under his arm, while Asimov selects a small pile of books to take with him.

The party are led by Gideon from the mansion and down the hill towards the town. It is mid-morning now although getting closer to lunch.

He walks quite briskly towards the first house at the bottom of the hill. All of the houses on the street are of sturdy, wooden construction and many have gardens with picket fences. The one you are approaching though clearly dwarfs them in terms of size. Two stories tall, painted a dark-burgundy color, and with many square windows that look out to the street.

Gideon approaches and opens the door to let you inside. The furnishings aren't anywhere near as glamorous as those of the mansion, but they are clearly better than any commoner would have. The bottom level features a kitchen, larder, dining room, lounge and two bedrooms. The upper floor features the other six bedrooms. There is an exit at the rear that leads to a private stable.

"I'll leave you here to unpack and settle in. I'll venture in town and let them know to expect to see you about" Gideon gives a bow from the hips and leaves you be.

Asimov has hours of study planned. The books have been very well indexed. He is confident that finding the relevant sections will be much easier than he expected (OOC: Let's assume 1hr study per check).

In the two hours before lunch he learns a few things:
- There is a path that leads from Lowestoft to the Shelldare Mountains. Specifically it leads to the iron ore mine. There are no documented exits from the mine on the other side of the mountain range. (Highlight to display spoiler: {Your Knowl Geography})
- The Elder Tree is so named as it is believed to be the oldest tree in the Highland Forest. It is said to have been carried as a sapling from the Culverwood and planted here in the distant past by a druid. Of course, no-one can corroborate that story. The tree is massive in size - some 300ft tall - and sits in a clearing of its own. It truly is an ancient tree. There is nothing in any of the books that connects the tree with moss of any kind. (Highlight to display spoiler: {Your Knowl Nature and History checks})
- You don't find anything significant about the Highland Forest. (Highlight to display spoiler: {Your Knowl Geo check})

That brings us to noon. The town has all of the stores, shops and stalls one would expect and, of course, a tavern: "The Happy Boar"

*Updated to reflect the knowl checks

SteveM - Elron
Monday July 13th, 2020 7:29:57 PM
When asked for his name, Elron says, "I'm Elron. Elron of Herringbone, or some such, but just Elron is fine."

As they walk to the house, Elron sizes up Gideon. Seems a bit square. Perfect for his job. "Gideon, are the accommodations you're showin' us furnished for someone of my particular physique? I've noticed a tendency for humans and humanoids to sleep on soft platforms, and that jus' won't do." Elron describes the item he wants -- "Real easy to make from a two or three inch wide stick, four feet long, and a couple of other sticks or boards about a foot and a half long -- attach 'em to the ends of the long stick like so. He gestures until Gideon understands or says he does.

After Gideon leaves, Elron -- with his the eggheads will take care of the logistics attitude -- moseys around the place, poking his head hear and there. Nice place. But he's a chicken of action, and there isn't any here.

"Who wants to go get some lunch with me? We can talk about the coincidence that Mr. Lockridge has searched the world to find help for his little girl only to learn everythin' he needs is right where he grew up. Stranger things have happened."

Honor Bright (Kathy) d20+1=20 ; d20+1=21 ; d20+1=11 ; d20+1=19 ;
Monday July 13th, 2020 8:32:25 PM
Asked for her name, Honor replies, "Honor Faith Constance Bright." She smiles. "I know that's a mouthful. I'm Honor to my friends."

She does her best to help Asimov with his research, fetching books, returning books, looking up specific items under his guidance. For a wonder, her help is actually helpful.

[Aid Another: successful for all 4 checks to help Asimov.]

Zeoll the Greensinger | AC16, 10hp | Cayzle d20+7=26 ; d20+3=11 ; d20+8=23 ;
Monday July 13th, 2020 10:20:39 PM

"I am Zeoll," says the liontaur. For a moment he looks like he is about to launch into a long recitation of titles, claims, and affiliations. But in the end, all that escapes him is a small sigh and a simple title: "Zeoll the Grreensingerr."

Outside, Zeoll tries to place himself and this small place in the context of the larger Wold. One of the little kingdoms of the Windbourne Hills? Somewhere on the coast of the Gateway Downs? He says a prayer and tries to get a hint from the climate and flora.

Know Nature 26
Know Geography 11

In the town, Zeoll visits the tavern and several shops. He picks up several small purchases on the marquis's dime, both to outfit himself and to have a chance to chat with the locals (see below). He tries to learn what he can about the aristo's daughter, as well as the places to which the group is headed.

Diplomacy (Gather Info): 23

He returns afterward and shares all he discovers with his new friends -- over lunch with Elron.

[OOC: Purchases: dagger, waterskin, travel rations, silk rope, hammer, small box of 10 tindertwigs, paper, ink, and quill, sheet updated]

Asimov | Hugh | technomancer
Monday July 13th, 2020 11:20:53 PM
Asimov says to Horatio, "Thank you for your kind offer. I will take you up on it and borrow a selection with respect to what I'm looking for. In the interest of not having anything happen to your books can I entrust the ones I borrow to Gideon when we leave?"

Asimov smiles at Gideon and says, "I have only one name and that is Asimov."

After several hours of study he joins the others for lunch with plans to continue studying into the afternoon afterwards. At the pub he shares what he knows, orders a sandwich and a pint and repeats his original suggestion, "If we are to have horses lets take a cart as well. Horatio said we could purchase certain items on him to outfit ourselves for this expedition and a cart is within the parameters specified. A cart is a bargain at 35 gold pieces."

DAVE (Tanner) -- HP 10 | AC 17/16/14 | CMD 16 | F+4/R+5/W+5
Monday July 13th, 2020 11:55:36 PM
DAVE is happy to join a hunting band with the promise of many shiny metal bits. Such meat he would trade for the shiny bits! And the promise of food before they leave... "DAVE WILL CONSUME MEAT BEFORE THE JOURNEY TO GATHER ENERGY. THE HUMANS APPEAR TO HAVE GOOD BRAINS. DAVE WILL FOLLOW THEIR PATH."

The mantid walks over to the door leading out of the parlor, faces the wall, and stands perfectly still. His antennae twitch randomly. "DAVE IS READY." he announces to the wall.

Scene 1 - Travel

DM Tanner
Monday July 13th, 2020 11:56:24 PM
Those who investigate Daniella learn that the townsfolk are anxious for her good health. Apparently the Marquis de Lockridge is a generous sort, known for his charitable works. The Lockridge family is respected and news of your arrival has been the subject of gossip since you step foot in town. Occasionally the townsfolk will spot Daniella in the company of Gideon, who chaperones her while she visits shops or walks through the countryside. She will even play in front of the mansion, though she has been more reclusive as of late.

The party avails themselves of the Marquis' hospitality. Various party members run errands (OOC: assume you have several hours available the day before leaving, please post a summary), enjoy a simple but well-prepared meal in the guest home, and sleep soundly (OOC: if for some reason your character has nocturnal activities, please email me).

The next morning the party assembles and finds all of their errands completed, and the necessary equipment ready and waiting (OOC: please post a summary of the equipment gained through our patron's offer). The party begins their trek to the Highland Forest. Townsfolk line the streets and wave, crying 'huzzah!' and wishing you blessings and success. Even being willing to help Lady Daniella has made you local celebrities!

About a mile outside of town, just as houses dwindle into specks, you spy a dead tree on the side of the road. Coming closer, you see the tree is streaked with blood. Coming even closer, you spy a cruel and gruesome sight. Five tiny fey, like dolls with butterfly wings, are pinned to the tree. Their exsanguinated bodies have shriveled to husks in the sun.

Knowledge (nature) DC 11 Highlight to display spoiler: {These creatures are sprites.}

Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant (Kim)
Tuesday July 14th, 2020 1:59:03 AM
[Had a post written yesterday, but it got wiped out by a crashing computer.]

The Jotun spent a few minutes looking over the map so she could understand the proposals the others made, and a some sense of direction as they begin their search.

Giving her name to the Marquis, the tall woman replies, "My name is Mundhildure Karadottir. I am of the Jotunnar from Clan Stormur og Sky og Vindur Morguns. We are from mountains a ways off - not the Shelldare Mountains as on your map. Some of our clan are of the Storm Giant strain, others from the Cloud Giants. My father Guðmundur and mother Kara are of the Storm Giants. I've an older brother who lives, and a younger sister. My eldest brother died. An elder sister disappeared, we know not wither. And many cousins. We sing songs of storms and mountains, of stags and battle, of love and honor, of drinking and wrestling, and of wandering." That is more than she usually gives by way of introduction, but since they are to help this small family, she thought he should understand she has family, and has suffered loss.

She picks up some supplies in town [will enumerate later - in pain, going to bed], and joins the group on the morrow, working at getting to know the people and others she shall travel with.

Honor Bright (Kathy)
Tuesday July 14th, 2020 3:15:40 PM
Honor had pretty much squared away her personal gear before she came here.

She gives some thought to the party's transportation needs. She can ride a horse, but she suspects many of the others cannot. Zeoll cannot. Mundhildure is too big. Dave and Elron might be able to, but Honor suspects they would be uncomfortable. The others are talking about wagons, or carts, but...

"Do we want a wagon for people to ride in, or to carry gear?" she asks. "Because, honestly, it might be better just to go on foot. Maybe have pack mules for things that are too heavy for people to carry, like tents and things. It's just that mules can go where wagons can't, and I'd hate for us to get stuck someplace."

Zeoll the Greensinger | AC16, 10hp | Cayzle d20+7=25 ; d20+6=14 ; d20+6=9 ; d20+7=11 ; d20+9=14 ;
Tuesday July 14th, 2020 5:48:32 PM
Zeoll stares at the scene of dead fey nailed to a tree. He says a prayer for these tiny creatures, and prays also for guidance in understanding this seeming crime. [casts Guidance]

Know Nature 25!

"These arre sprrites," says Zeoll, "Does anybody have a way to detect evil orr magic?" he asks the group. "Maybe we can gain some clue as to what has happened herre, orr even follow a magical trrail that the fleeing crriminals in passing may have left."

"Hmmm ... orr maybe a mundane trrail ..."

He has another idea. "Can anyone with healing skill tell how long they have been dead?"

Zeoll uses his liontaur scent and his keen senses in general to try to sense the manner of enemy who may have done this, or where they went after committing their crime. He prays for Guidance as he searches and sniffs.

Perception (scent) - 14
Survival (tracking, with scent) - 9
Know Nature - 11

Zeoll tenderly removes the tiny bodies from the tree, and lays them gently on a patch of grass. He does not have a shovel, but the liontaur has hammer and spikes with which he can loosen the ground, and his shield he can use to move the earth. He prepares a place to bury these victims. After laying them to rest, he sings:

Brring them, oh Motherr,
Back to yourr merrcy.
They have now earrned theirr rrest.

Perform (song) - 14

After, there is anger in the old taur's eyes. "I know we have a mission, and the needs of the living come beforre those of the dead, but I tell you, my frriends, this wrrenches at my hearrt, and I will not condone this."

SteveM - Elron d20+10=15 ;
Tuesday July 14th, 2020 7:59:53 PM
Elron doesn't shop for any more stuff. His views on his needs are simple.

Elron confirms Honor's suspicions about his riding ability. "I 'spose I'm light enough to sit on a willin' horse, but it don't seem right. It'd be nice to ride in a cart, but I doubt it'd go through the woods too good."

After the sprites are found, Elron loses some of his humor, though.

"Sorry, Zeoll. Can't answer your question, but don't imagine they dried fast. At least the blood may mean they were dead when they were put there." Elron sounds a bit subdued -- for Elron. He tries to help Zeoll find clues, using his eyes.

(Perception = 15, assists)

"Let's, I say, let's hope we can deal with the culprit."

Asimov | Hugh | technomancer d20+4=14 ; d20+4=17 ; d20+4=22 ; d20+4=8 ; d20+4=10 ; d20+4=8 ; d20+4=5 ; d20+5=21 ;
Tuesday July 14th, 2020 11:47:05 PM
Yesterday--

Asimov produces the following itemized list during lunch and gives it to one of his companions who is going shopping. He says, "I'm going to go back to studying for the rest of the day, but if one of you is going to market please get the following items. Please stow everything on the wagon."

1) Wagon (35 gp)
2) 2 horses to pull it
3) Thunderstone (35 gp)
4) Tanglefoot bag (50 gp)
5) antitoxin (vial) (50 gp)
6) smokestick (20 gp)
7) alchemist fire (20 gp)
8) acid flask (10 gp)
9) artisan tools(trapmaking) (5 gp)
10) tent (10 gp)
11) shovel (2 gp)
12) iron pot (8 sp)
13) masterwork manacles (50 gp)
14) average lock (for manacles) (40 gp)
14) 100 ft of silk rope (20 gp)
15) 10 foot pole
16) miner's pick (3 gp)
17) block and tackle (5 gp)
18) map case (1 gp)
19) crowbar (2 gp)
20) 10 feet of chain (30 gp)
21) grappling hook (1 gp)
22) caltrops (1 gp)
23) 10 trail rations (5 gp)
24) portable ram (10 gp)
25) materials needed to craft a bear trap (OOC: I would like to craft a bear trap at some point; you know the thing you can put on the ground w/ the jaws and if you step on it it "bites" you. Is this possible kindly DM?)

With the list out of the way he spends the rest of the afternoon researching. (say I start at 1 pm; I should have a good 7 hours before bed)

1 hour:
Know [Nature]: Things concerning purple mushrooms: 14

1 hours:
Know [Geography]: Things concerning the stokequet marsh - 17

1 hour:
Know [History]: Historically significant events in stokequet marsh - 22

1 hour:
Know [Nature]: Things concerning silverberry vine and its berries: 8

1 hours:
Know [Geography]: Things concerning the fowlsfield keep - 10

1 hour:
Know [History]: Historically significant events in fowlsfield keep - 8

1 hours:
Know [Geography]: Things concerning the road they are planning to take in general - 5

Today-
He wakes up goes through his routine of preparing devices.

Asimov makes sure Gideon gets the books to return to the Horatio and sets off with his friends. He keeps his eyes peeled for anything (21)

Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant (Kim) (starter character sheet) d20+3=14 ;
Wednesday July 15th, 2020 1:51:23 AM

"I will shop your list," Mundhildur tells Asimov. "You want me to bargain hard? Or hardly bargain?" she asks him. The Jotun woman walks through the town, looking to see obvious places for some of the items, and asking when she does not know where to look. She shoots for a 10% average discount on things, but won't push it if someone is adamant. "Maybe you think about it next time, yes? Thank you for this. Good quality, right? Fine to pay for good quality."

After shopping at a few places, she looks about to see if anyone has been eying her with interest. She tries to discern if there may be someone who might help her in her shopping endeavors. Who might evidence integrity, or cleverness, or have an astute eye? [Sense motive, 14]. In exchange for the promise of a bit of gold and a good meal, she enlists one, or two, to be her shopping assistants.

She picks up some things for herself as well.
2 Strong Pack Mules
Tack for them, saddle blankets.
Some extra leather strips to replace saddle parts if needed.
Good quality pack saddles.
She has made what Elron described as his favorite bed, sketching out the design on parchment with a chunk of charcoal. "Ready before evening meal, please. Make it strong. For a rooster who weighs as much as," as she looks at men of various sizes passing nearby, "he," she points out.

"A cooking grill for a campfire. Metal, able to hold a skillet or two upon it, or a pot of water. Good enough it will not crack if cooled by water when hot."
Two skillets - 12" and 10"
A four-stubby-legged water pot with two handles, and a movable handle to allow it to be hung from a tripod.

She requests 450 feet of silk rope, in three strands of 150 feet each, braided together to form a very stout 140 foot braided rope easily capable of bearing her weight, and more, well finished at the ends with tight bindings. She'll pay a premium to have it ready by tonight, or early morning.
And two 100 feet lengths of hemp rope.

A tent large enough to hold her and others.
Four 10'x15' rectangles of canvas, waxed. Metal-clad eyelets every two and a half feet or so around the exterior for running lines through.

2 Longspears (5 gp) 10
1 Thunderstone (35 gp)
1 Tanglefoot bag (50 gp)
1 Antitoxin (vial) (50 gp)
1 Smokestick (20 gp)
1 Alchemist fire (20 gp)
1 Acid flask (10 gp)
1 Iron pot (8 sp)
2 Block and Tackle (5 gp) 10
1 Sledge hammer
3 Crowbars
4 baskets - 2 large, 2 smaller
3 large woolen blankets

Salt, 10 lbs
Honeycomb, 5 lbs

A good mixture of tubers, vegetables, some fruit, wheat, oats, cheese, salted meats, bread, seasonings, a few dozen eggs, pickled items, three dozen eggs.
[may add a tad more to list here later. And if the gp amount is excessive, feel free to cut down on alchemical items]

She leads the mules out of town, laden with her purchased items. As they set out, clear of earshot of the mansion, she sings a simple song.

"My new companions seek to aid
A nobleman to cure his maid
May airy spirits help us find
The things we need to help her mend

Bless our steps watchers above
Let us aid paternal love
A nobleman to cure his maid
My new companions seek to aid."

When they come upon the sprites, she gasps. "They have stricken the airy spirits," she cries out.

As Zeoll tends to their bodies, she kneels beside, and helps to dig with the tip of a crowbar. She gently pats down the earth around two of them, with Zeoll tending to the others.

As the liontaur sings, the Jotun joins in, her alto voice gently echoing the last pair of words at each line.

Brring them, oh Motherr, oh Mother
Back to yourr mercy, your mercy
They have now earrned theirr rrest, their rest

"We shall make pay who did such evil."

Honor Bright (Kathy) d20+5=10 ;
Wednesday July 15th, 2020 12:49:29 PM
Honor is a little surprised when her companions turn up with so much gear. Surely we don't need all that! she thinks. But she keeps her thoughts to herself.

When she sees the sprites...

"Oh! The poor things," she says. "Who would do such a horrible thing?"

She tries to figure out what happened to them, but the whole scene is so upsetting, and they're so tiny! [Heal check 10.]

At Zeoll's suggestion, she uses her Detect Evil ability and scans the area.

Asimov | Hugh | technomancer d20+8=19 ;
Thursday July 16th, 2020 1:35:58 AM
Asimov takes in the carnage and tries to figure out if there might have been an arcane purpose to the slaughter of the sprites

Know[Arcana]: 19

He echos the comments of the others, "Who would do something like this?"

Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant (Kim) (starter character sheet)
Thursday July 16th, 2020 6:10:25 AM

As Honor and Asimov speak, Mundhildur looks at them with sorrow. Then she turns.

"DAVE. Do you know sprites? That is what these are." She pauses. "I hope you do not eat sprites."

SteveM - Elron
Thursday July 16th, 2020 1:23:51 PM
"I don't know if it's more disquietin' or encouragin' that this happened so close to town. On th'one hand, there's evil right at the feet of those good people. On th'other, it's not yet strong enough or desp'rate enough to attack 'em."

Zeoll the Greensinger | AC16, 10hp | Cayzle
Thursday July 16th, 2020 8:51:58 PM

Zeoll pauses after the burial to wash the tree clean.

Elrron, my frriend," the liontaur says, "therre is morre wisdom in yourr head than one might have thought. I say."

He smiles to show he is gently teasing.

DM RobC - "Therre is morre wisdom in yourr head than one might have thought."
Friday July 17th, 2020 11:01:18 AM
The party clean out most of the local stores. As warned, it's not the catacombs. All the things the party bought will take time to restock in the town. Hopefully none of the locals were planning to buy any of it. Among other things you did end up buying 600ft of silk rope. They will have to make do with what's left.

Asimov finishes his study...
- Things concerning purple mushrooms: Purple mushrooms grow in the swamp. Who knows why they are purple? No mention of anything special about them.
- Things concerning the stokequet marsh: It's a marsh. May have been nice land once, but isn't any more.
- Historically significant events in stokequet marsh: Nothing.
- Things concerning silverberry vine and its berries: They are about the size of a grape and taste a little sour.
- Things concerning the fowlsfield keep: Used to be a keep that has fallen into disrepair
- Historically significant events in fowlsfield keep: Nothing relevant to this quest.
- Things concerning the road they are planning to take in general: It's a road. It may just be the road-iest road you've ever seen.
Highlight to display spoiler: {You realise, of course, that I'm currently preparing a list of a dozen or so knowl checks that Ash will be making next week :D}

The sight of the sprites is quite disturbing.

Zeoll can't think of any logical reason why someone would do such a thing. Evil often defies logic however. Asimov can't think of any arcane reason.

After a small burial and a few songs, the party are ready to move on.

Elron and Zeoll look about and find a lot of footprints. It is by a road after all. The only ones that stand out are a pair that divert from this position and head through the grass to the south, towards the sea.

---------------
What sort of marching order are you using? I count the six of you, a wagon, two horses and two pack mules.

Honor Bright (Kathy)
Friday July 17th, 2020 10:05:30 PM
"Well, do we want to investigate the footprints, or keep on our way? I'd prefer to just focus on the mission, but I'm open to suggestions."

Honor will go on foot, unless doing so would slow the group down. She prefers to be toward the front.

SteveM - Elron
Saturday July 18th, 2020 12:10:18 PM
"Normally I'd agree with you, Honor," Elron says, "but the water's right over there. Ain't much of a detour."

(If the group can't actually see the water, on the map the shore is much closer to the road than their destinations are.)

While the group travels on the road, Elron is happy to be lazy and ride in the cart. Off road, he'll walk. While walking, he prefers to be able to see -- with the others being taller, that means towards the front or as an outlier to one side.

Asimov | Hugh | technomancer d20+5=15 ;
Sunday July 19th, 2020 11:43:06 PM
Asimov would probably prefer to ride in the cart. However he has no experience handling animals and isn't very charismatic so he wouldn't make a good cart driver.

Asimov says, "If we are going to checkout those footprints we should be wary. We don't know if they belong to the person who slaughtered those sprites."

"I'm not opposed to taking the detour, but we should be quick about it." (Perception: 15)

DM RobC - "Ain't much of a detour"
Monday July 20th, 2020 6:01:09 AM
Honor, Elrond and Asimov discuss the next move: should the party keep going on their way or should they take a moment to see where these tracks go?

Zeoll, Mundhildur and DAVE stand speechless. They share the common knowledge that not every situation needs words... although a few wouldn't hurt right now.

Aismov is able to follow the tracks as they lead in the direction of the sea. The tracks are quite easy to follow. A larger set and a smaller set. Both humanoid. He's able to follow the tracks for 50ft or so and then he loses them. No, that's not a fair statement. The tracks just stop. You can see them clearly up until a point and then they go no further. There are no more tracks to follow and no sign of what made them.

You're still a few hundred yards away from the river and have your wagon, cart and horses 50ft behind you on the road.

Zeoll the Greensinger | AC16, 10hp | Cayzle d20+5=23 ; d20+5=14 ; d20+7=15 ;
Monday July 20th, 2020 9:27:08 AM

[OOC: Super sorry for missing a post. Found out a friend and co-worker died unexpectedly Friday AM and it threw me for a bit of a loop. All I did for three days was work on the spell lists for L&L. Good job to do, but mindless in a way, I guess.]

Zeoll wants to follow the tracks. He tries again to gather some sense of the smell of the people they are following (maybe the scent will be clearer a hundred feet on, away from the road traffic.) He says a prayer for guidance.

Survival 23+1 guidance = 24
Perception 14+1 guidance = 15
Know Nature (with the guidance included) = 15

As the group follows the tracks, he suggests that he go first so that no one will step on clues before he has a look and a sniff. Maybe Mundhi can lead the beasts in the rear? Zeoll thinks they are hers, right?

If there is a breeze from the shore, Zeoll pauses for a moment. He thinks about his long experience at sea.

Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant (Kim) (starter character sheet)
Monday July 20th, 2020 2:40:59 PM

"Yes, let us look," Mundhildur says. She is fine with the suggestion to bring the mules along at the back of the party for now. She wonders if she will end up needing to swim.

Honor Bright (Kathy)
Monday July 20th, 2020 7:53:49 PM
"Well, we can bring the mules along," Honor says, picking her way after Zeoll, "but the horses and wagon are going to have to stay on the road."

SteveM - Elron
Monday July 20th, 2020 8:32:51 PM
Since he thinks he got the party into this little detour, Elron happily follows Zeoll -- looking for anything that could explain why the tracks vanish.

"So, we got flyin' folk?"

SteveM - Elron d20+10=25 ;
Monday July 20th, 2020 8:35:53 PM
Let's just ignore that entire last post -- clicked the wrong button.
-----

Since he thinks he got the party into this little detour, Elron happily follows Zeoll -- looking for anything that could explain why the tracks vanish, but not getting in Zeoll's way. (Perception = 25)

If he can't find something that might let them figure out why the tracks disappear, Elron assumes whoever it was must've flown away.

Asimov | Hugh | technomancer d20+5=14 ;
Monday July 20th, 2020 9:44:35 PM
(Perception: 14)

Asimov keeps his eyes peeled as they go on their detour.

"So how do we keep the horses safe whie we go on this detour?" He asks

Zeoll the Greensinger | AC16, 10hp | Cayzle
Monday July 20th, 2020 11:37:30 PM

"We should leave DAVE with the horrses," suggests Zeoll. "Ok, Dave? Also, do not eat them please."

[OOC: Reasonable way to occupy Tanner's PC while we wait for him to come back?]

Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant (Kim) (starter character sheet)
Monday July 20th, 2020 11:39:18 PM

"Tell them to stay put, or jump in the wagon if there is flooding," suggests Mundhildur, about the time that Zeoll makes a better suggestion. "Yes. We protect horses, and we don't eat sprites. I'll see if there is any meat out there that can be eaten, DAVE. That's not a promise. It's a hope."

DM RobC - "Also, do not eat them please"
Tuesday July 21st, 2020 6:39:48 AM
Highlight to display spoiler: {OOC: I'm confused by some of your posts. Zeoll wants to follow the tracks, but per the DM post there are no more to follow. Mundhildur and Honor are fine to bring the mules along, but you have only gone 50ft. I'll try and clarify. I'm probably not describing this clearly}

The DM recaps the scene...

The party found two sets of footprints leading away from the pixies and towards the direction of the river. Asimov was able to follow them for 50ft into the grass but that was as far as they went. There were no further trails. Elron makes a very reasonable deduction. Could be that whoever made them has a way to fly?

The road - and horses, carts, etc - are only 50ft behind you on the road. The river is still well over a hundred yards away.

Zeoll is unable to gather any scent from the trail. The bodies of the pixies had been out long enough to turn into husks. That isn't something that happens quickly. Any lingering smells would have dissipated by now.

Where to from here? Do the party want to go in the general direction the prints were going? Do they want to return to the road? Decisions decisions.

------------
OOC: Going to need a marching order please folks. How is your convoy going to look?

Zeoll the Greensinger | AC16, 10hp | Cayzle
Tuesday July 21st, 2020 8:40:29 AM

[OOC: Sorry, too distracted I guess.]

Zeoll would like to at least follow the direction of the footprints as far as the river. It's not far away, after all. Let Dave stay with the beasts and carts at the road. At the river's bank, we can look around and see if we see anything.

Honor Bright (Kathy)
Tuesday July 21st, 2020 12:54:07 PM
Honor is fine with going as far as the river.

While going to the river, she is content to stay toward the back of the party.

On the road, however, she prefers to be toward the front. The animals were not her idea, and she would rather not step in their road-apples.

Zeoll the Greensinger | AC16, 10hp | Cayzle d20+5=18 ;
Tuesday July 21st, 2020 3:39:27 PM

Oh, and Zeoll will take lead, keeping alert to sights and smells.

Perception 18

Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant (Kim) (CS more progressed, not done) d20+3=6
Tuesday July 21st, 2020 4:31:28 PM
The jotan woman follows the others, mules in a line behind - 'Sled' ahead of the other.

Once they draw near the water. She drops the lead. 'Stay here,' she tells the animals, holding out her hand fingers up, palm out. 'Eat grass.'

Leaving them perhaps 25 feet from water's edge, she takes her second long spear along. Once she can see the water, Mundhildur glances to see if there are any fish. Though they breakfasted not too long ago, she did tell DAVE she would try for meat. She likely does not spot a fish at the moment.
===============
Perception: 6

SteveM - Elron d20+10=19 ;
Tuesday July 21st, 2020 10:54:45 PM
Elron is happy to go with the others to the river, and helps look around. He follows slightly behind and to the side of Zeoll in order not to damage any tracks if they resume but still get a good view.

(Perception 19)

Asimov | Hugh | technomancer d20+5=17 ;
Tuesday July 21st, 2020 11:28:39 PM
Asimov goes with the others to the river and looks around. (Perception: 17)

Assuming they don't find anything the tinkerer contents himself to ride in the wagon if possible.

DM RobC - "Also, do not eat them please"
Wednesday July 22nd, 2020 8:55:34 AM
The group keep walking towards the river. As with everything else you have seen so far, the area is picturesque. The water is cool and clear and if you had more time you're pretty sure you'd be able to catch a fish or two here.

There are no signs of anyone else having been here recently. Unfortunately this looks like it might be a dead end.

SteveM - Elron
Wednesday July 22nd, 2020 12:16:16 PM
"Wonderful day for trampin' through the fields, though." Elron seems to have already forgotten what brought them out to the river in the first place, although he continues to keep an eye out. He starts poking around the area, humming to himself as he does. The occasional repetition of only the beginning of the refrain of his song leaves one wondering if he knows the whole thing. "Let's hope the road is just as nice."

Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant (Kim) (CS more progressed, not done) d20+3=7 ;
Wednesday July 22nd, 2020 2:27:58 PM

Mundhildur crouches down next to the water, and scoops up a palm-full. She brings it to her face and sniffs. She touches it with the tip of her tongue. If it seems fine, she drinks the water.

Once more she looks for fish (Perception 7). Nothing nearby that she can see, one supposes.

"Beauty in this place. Let's go back." She walks back to the mules, takes up Sled's reins, and leads him and Rockhead back to the road. Once all are gathered, she joins them in heading toward whatever Asimov said was to be their first destination.

Honor Bright (Kathy)
Wednesday July 22nd, 2020 5:30:41 PM
As the others look around by the river bank, Honor quickly uses her Detect Evil ability. She does not expect to find anything.

If nobody finds anything interesting, Honor leads the way back to the road.

Zeoll the Greensinger | AC16, 10hp | Cayzle d20+5=23 ;
Wednesday July 22nd, 2020 8:52:13 PM

Zeoll cannot think of anything else. He wades out into the river and sticks his head under to look around.

Perception 23

Unless that miraculously discovers something, the liontaur heads back to the tree with his friends, slightly downcast.

Asimov | Hugh | technomancer d20+5=19 ;
Wednesday July 22nd, 2020 11:52:00 PM
(Perception: 19)

Asimov takes in the river and assuming they don't find anything wanders back to the animals and wagon.

He then resumes traveling in the wagon.

Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant (Kim) (CS more progressed, not done)
Thursday July 23rd, 2020 5:48:39 PM

"Lion Zeoll. We will find out. My heart is heavy like yours for the wee flitters," the tall, tall woman says. "But we will find out. Weep if you must. Then lift your chin for vengeance upon the nasties."

Honor Bright (Kathy)
Thursday July 23rd, 2020 7:57:44 PM
"I wish I'd paid more attention to Healing Arts," Honor says with a little sigh. "I might have been able to learn something from the bodies. Then again, perhaps we're better off not knowing. Anyway, there's a sick little girl who needs us."

DM-for-now Cayzle
Thursday July 23rd, 2020 10:31:14 PM
Elron is ready to head back to the road.

Mundhi takes a cold drink and agrees with Elron.

Honor finds no evil.

Zeoll takes one more look -- under water -- and sees only fishies.

Asimov makes it a consensus.

The group heads back to DAVE and the carts. Soon the Sprite Tree is behind the the road leads into woods. The river burbles along not far off. Please make a Perception check.

If you make a DC11, then Please Highlight to display spoiler: {You hear an animal’s whimpering a short distance away.}

Zeoll the Greensinger | AC16, 10hp | Cayzle
Thursday July 23rd, 2020 10:32:33 PM
Zeoll is distracted as the small grave passes by. He remains deep in thought, at the back of the party for now. He and DAVE talk, and Zeoll explains the nature of sprites and fey creatures,

SteveM - Elron d20+10=24 ;
Thursday July 23rd, 2020 10:52:29 PM
"What, I say, what is that sound?," Elron asks, quieter than usual as he tries to figure out what sort of animal he hears. "Someone's in distress."

Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant (Kim) (CS more progressed, not done) d20+5=10 ;
Friday July 24th, 2020 12:15:20 AM

Mundhildur cannot quite hear anything, though she strains to do so. "Where is distress?" she asks Elron.
=========
Perception : 10 (including +2 from being prompted by Elron) - 1 point short of cluing in.

Asimov | Hugh | technomancer d20+5=10 ;
Friday July 24th, 2020 1:21:41 AM
(Perception: 10)

From his position in the wagaon, Asimov is temporary distracted and as such does not hear anything. He says, "I don't hear anything."

Honor Bright (Kathy) d20+3=15 ;
Friday July 24th, 2020 2:06:33 PM
"Yes, I hear it, too," Honor says. She steps off the road and heads toward the sound.

DM-for-now Cayzle
Friday July 24th, 2020 5:01:09 PM

Following the sounds of a suffering beast, the party investigates.

Not far from the edge of the forest-shrouded river, a fox with large ears and bright orange fur lies bleeding, its hindquarters caught fully in the jaws of a crude iron trap.

The fox lies on the grassy shore of the river, some 10 feet from the water and 20 feet from the forest edge.

The fox isn’t struggling. On close inspection you can see bite marks on its leg where it looks like it has been trying to bite it off and free itself. It is now too tired and injured to do anything but whimper.

This wild creature has obviously been snared by a hunter’s cruel trap

SteveM - Elron
Saturday July 25th, 2020 12:08:52 PM
"Sad," Elron says, taking in the scene. "Well, no help for it. I'll put the little bugger outta it's misery." The others get the impression Elron doesn't like traps. Or foxes. He graps his sticks and prepares to deliver a coup de grace.

Honor Bright (Kathy)
Saturday July 25th, 2020 12:21:58 PM
"Oh, wait, Elron!" Honor says, putting a hand on his arm. "Let's see if we can spare the poor thing."

Approaching the trap, Honor croons, "Hello, little fox. It's all right, we aren't going to hurt you."

Honor has a kind heart, but she knows squat about wild animals. She is well on her way to having her face bitten off.

Asimov | Hugh | technomancer d20+6=22 ; d8+1=4 ;
Saturday July 25th, 2020 10:10:20 PM
Asimov says, "I'm going to try to open the trap and after the fox is free. Collect it. I have some throughts for how it could be potentially useful in battle at some point in the future."

He first attempts to free the fox from the trap.
(Disable Device: 22)

Asimov then takes a device off his utility belt and attempts to use it on the fox encouraging it to breathe in the vapors (as cure light wounds; if fox inhales it cures 4 hp)

Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant (Kim) (CS more progressed, not done)
Monday July 27th, 2020 12:26:29 AM

"Poor fox," says Mundhildur. She watches Asimov, and kneels near Honor. She takes her waterskin and drips water in the fox's mouth, speaking soothing words. "You've a very pretty tail. See, we are trying to help. So don't bite me."

Zeoll the Greensinger | AC16, 10hp | Cayzle d20+5=20 ;
Monday July 27th, 2020 9:23:01 PM

Zeoll watches his new group. He's propud that they would care for an animal. On the other hand, people, like animals, hunt for food and furs. He has no problem with that. The cruelty of this trap, on the other hand, bothers him. Even worse if that the trapper has delayed in checking his lines.

"Hmmm. Lines. Arre therre any morre trraps arround?"

Perception 20

DM-for-now Cayzle Battle At The River, Round 1 - SURPRISE! d20+4=10 ; d20+4=18 [two arrows vs Mundhi's flat footed AC13, one hit]; d8=1 [1 damage to Mundhi]; d20-9=-1 ; d20-9=3 poor sniper stealth rolls;
Monday July 27th, 2020 10:29:21 PM

Honor and Mundhi care for the fox, which is too exhausted to do more than lie down and accept their ministrations. Even the hit points of healing from Asimov can not dispel exhaustion, though in other ways they are healing.

Elron is willing to do what has to be done to put the poor creature down ... but perhaps that is not necessary.

Asimov's mechanical prowess succeeds in springing open the trap and freeing the fox.

Zeoll looks around on the ground for more traps, but fails utterly to notice the poachers in their blind about 50 ft away!

They release the hounds! Travelling through the underbrush, the ugly dogs cannot charge, but they take double moves and end next to Zeoll!

The poachers fire two arrows, but not at Zeoll, since they wish to avoid the -4 penalty for firing into melee.

They take both shots at the second-biggest person, Mundhi. One hits, inflicting 1 hp damage to the tall humanoid.

Then they duck behind trees to avoid being seen. However, their stealth checks were so bad that you would have to roll a -1 to see one and a 3 to see the other, so they both go on the map.

And the Map!

Note: Trees: The most important terrain element in a forest is the trees, obviously. A creature standing in the same square as a tree gains partial cover, which grants a +2 bonus to Armor Class and a +1 bonus on Reflex saves. The presence of a tree doesn't otherwise affect a creature's fighting space, because it's assumed that the creature is using the tree to its advantage when it can. The trunk of a typical tree has AC 4, hardness 5, and 150 hp. A DC 15 Climb check is sufficient to climb a tree.

Undergrowth: Vines, roots, and short bushes cover much of the ground in a forest. A space covered with light undergrowth costs 2 squares of movement to move into, and provides concealment. Undergrowth increases the DC of Acrobatics and Stealth checks by 2 because the leaves and branches get in the way.

SteveM - Elron d20+1=6 ;
Tuesday July 28th, 2020 12:44:57 AM
Elron handily already has a weapon at the ready, and can make it to G16 in a 30' move, so that's where he's going. He makes one attempt to vent his frustrations on dog #3. He succeeds in letting it know he was trying to hit it (AC 6).

Asimov | Hugh | AC 15/12/13 HP 12/12 d20-2=10 ; d3=2 ;
Tuesday July 28th, 2020 2:01:38 AM
Asimov moves up to K14, swiftly retrieves his freeze ray and fires a frosty orb at Hound 2. (10 vs touch;
2 damage if that hits)

----------------------
technomancer

(OOC: was at -2 b/c firing into melee incurs a penalty.)

Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant (Kim) AC 18 Touch 13 FF13 HP 10/11 d20+3=23
Tuesday July 28th, 2020 3:22:40 AM

Looks like three against three with the dogs at the moment. Mundhildur does not like being stuck by an arrow. She avoids the brush for the most part and double moves to M9, ending up standing behind a tree. "We are not foxes, stupid hunters!" she says in her alto voice. She has one of her long spears with her. She left the waterskin behind near the fox.

=============
Perception: 23 (nat 20)
Effective AC behind tree: 20

DM-for-now Cayzle Battle At The River, Round 1 - SURPRISE!
Tuesday July 28th, 2020 6:48:13 AM

OOC: Asimov, looks like you subtracted 2 from your attack roll instead of adding. No worries, the die roller is hard to figure out when you are just a first level character. I'll consider that as a hit on touch AC14, not 10.

:-)

OOC: Mundhi and all players, more seriously, DO NOT use your DM powers to make die rolls with the Edit Post option. That's a BIG no-no when wearing your player hats. If you forgot to make a roll with your first post, then make a second post. ALSO, see how I annotated the combat post die field with explanatory notes? That's also for DMs only. Here on out, all players editing die fields while wearing their player hats will make Cayzle SUPER UPSET. When you do that, it triggers alarms and bothers the PTB.

You want to edit a typo or correct formatting in the post field, sure, that's ok. Do not edit the die field! Do not roll dice using the post editor! Thanks.

Honor Bright (Kathy) d20+4=11 ; d8=1 ;
Tuesday July 28th, 2020 1:34:54 PM
Honor moves to J-15, drawing Virtue as she goes. She feels bad for the dogs; they're just doing as they're told, but they're attacking Zeoll and that's not okay.

She slashes at Hound #2, and hits AC 11 for 4 damage.

Zeoll the Greensinger | AC16, 10hp | Cayzle
Tuesday July 28th, 2020 3:13:42 PM

Zeoll takes a five ft step back and casts Sleep, careful to position it to affect the dogs but not his allies. He centers it at G-H-12-13, and it has a 10 ft burst.

The dogs save vs DC15.

Then Zeoll uses his move action to draw a spear.

Petty-DM Cayzle - Battle At The River, Round 2 ZZZZ d20+1=12 ; d20+1=18 ; d20+1=6 [3 dog saves]; d20+2=18 [dog vs H]; d20+4=16 ; d20+4=20 [2 arrows vs M]; d8=1 [dam vs M];
Tuesday July 28th, 2020 7:04:25 PM

OOC: Note that the undergrowth provides concealment. That includes a 20% miss chance. If you forget, your roll, I'll do it for you, as needed.

OOC: Ha! Asimov was right and the DM was wrong! Stupid DM! OTOH, Asimov forgot to roll his 20% miss check, so the Petty-DM consoles himself with that at least! :-)

Elron moves to G16, swings, and misses.

Asimov moves to K14, fires a cold attack, and misses. The concealment does not matter.

Mundhi hustles to M9 and declares an objection to the archers. They are hobgoblins.

Honor moves to J15, swings at dog 2, who has concealment, and misses. The concealment does not matter.

Zeoll steps back, casts Sleep, and draws a spear. The three dogs roll vs DC15 and get ... a 12, an 18, and a 6. Dogs 1 and 3 fall asleep.

=====

Dog 2 snaps at Honor. Biting at +2, it hits AC18, missing her AC19!

The two hobgoblins fire at Mundhi and then back off. They hit AC16 and AC20, One arrow hits the tree Mundhi is using for cover, and the other bites for 1 hp damage.

Dogs are AC13.
Dogs 1 and 3 are sleeping; other enemies unwounded.

=====

And the Map!

Note: Trees: The most important terrain element in a forest is the trees, obviously. A creature standing in the same square as a tree gains partial cover, which grants a +2 bonus to Armor Class and a +1 bonus on Reflex saves. The presence of a tree doesn't otherwise affect a creature's fighting space, because it's assumed that the creature is using the tree to its advantage when it can. The trunk of a typical tree has AC 4, hardness 5, and 150 hp. A DC 15 Climb check is sufficient to climb a tree.

Undergrowth: Vines, roots, and short bushes cover much of the ground in a forest. A space covered with light undergrowth costs 2 squares of movement to move into, and provides concealment. Undergrowth increases the DC of Acrobatics and Stealth checks by 2 because the leaves and branches get in the way.

SteveM - Elron | AC 21, HP 10 d20-1=15 ; d20-1=15 ; d100=87 ; d100=37 ; d4=1 ; d4=3 ;
Tuesday July 28th, 2020 9:38:42 PM
Elron takes a step to H15 and attempts to hit dog #2 with an series of wild and agitated swings, kicks, and buffets (flurry of blows -- two blows land, doing 4 total damage). Elron looks up at anyone staring at this style reminiscent of twenty-four fighting chickens, and says, "Dawgs," as if that explains everything.

Asimov | Hugh | AC 17/14/15 HP 12/12 d100=72 ; d20+2=16 ; d3=1 ;
Wednesday July 29th, 2020 2:26:06 AM
Asimov moves to K12, occupying the same square as a tree and fires off a freeze ray round at hobgoblin a.

72 vs partial cover of tree = success.

16 vs touch; 1 cold damage
----------------------------
technomancer
Active Effect: Partial cover from tree: +2 to AC; +1 reflex save

Honor Bright (Kathy) d20+6=15 ; d100=46 ; d8=8 ;
Wednesday July 29th, 2020 1:36:07 PM
Honor pushes through the undergrowth to get into a flank with Elron, knowing that she'll probably get bitten for her trouble. [Move to J-13, which will provoke an AoO.]

She slashes again. This time she hits. [Hit AC 15; 46% on the miss chance; 11 damage.]

Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant (Kim) AC 18 Touch 13 FF13 HP 10/11 d100=36 ; d20+2=7 ; d20+2=3 ; d20+3=5 ; d20+3=19 ;
Wednesday July 29th, 2020 2:18:59 PM

Mundhildur moves to K7, and slams the hobgoblin there twice, though, not really, as she misses both times (AC 7, and AC 3 on a nat1). But she does roar and moves her head so that her braids flail wildly back and forth. "Begone! Begone!"

She wonders who might be conducting her funeral service, just in case.

Her perception with all this underbrush is minimal: 5

However, with her ferocious braids demonstration, perhaps we should see if the archers feel at all intimidated: 19

Zeoll the Greensinger | AC16, 10hp | Cayzle
Wednesday July 29th, 2020 10:42:21 PM
Zeoll moves up and starts singing a rousing tune.

Inspire Courage gives everyone a +1 morale bonus to attacks and damage.

Petty-DM Cayzle - Battle At The River, Round 3 - Sleeping and Dead Dogs Lie d20+2=8 ; d100=43 ; d100=93 ; d20+4=8 ; d20+4=13 ;
Wednesday July 29th, 2020 10:58:59 PM

Elron takes a step up and inflicts four hp damage on Dog 2. Elron, note that the dog has very irritating skin. Please make a DC 12 Fortitude save or break out in an itching rash. A creature affected by this rash takes a -2 penalty to Dexterity and Charisma.

Asimov steps forward to freeze a hobgoblin, inflicting a point of cold damage.

Honor provokes an AoO ... it misses. She moves to flank, and finishes off the dog.

Mundhi moves. She moves more than five feet, so she only gets one slam attack ... and it is a miss.

Zeoll moves and begins his bardic performance.

The hobs shoot at Mundhi again, one after taking a step back. Concealment plays no role, and the arrows strike AC8 and AC13 -- misses!

Dogs - AC13
Dog 1 - Sleep
Dog 2 - dead
Dog 3 - Sleep

Hobgoblins - AC16, Touch12
Hob a - 1 dam
Hob b - 0 dam

And the map!

SteveM - Elron | AC 21, HP 10 d20+4=22 ;
Thursday July 30th, 2020 12:50:13 AM
(Fortitude save = 22, no rash)

Promising himself he'll take care of the sleeping dogs after the hunters are dealt with, Elron moves to the nearest one (to H9) but has no chance to attack.

Asimov | Hugh | AC 17/14/15 HP 12/12 d20+3=9 ; d3+1=2 ;
Thursday July 30th, 2020 1:02:00 AM
Asimov takes another pot shot with his freeze ray at the same hobgoblin who has now been chased from his hiding spot.

(9 vs touch; 2 damage if that hits)

====================
technomancer
Active Effects:
Partial cover from tree: +2 to AC; +1 reflex save
bardic performance +1 attack; +1 damage

Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant (Kim) AC 18 Touch 13 FF13 HP 10/11 d20+3=9 ; d20+3=5 ; d100=79 ; d100=12 ;
Thursday July 30th, 2020 1:55:38 AM

The Jotun proves remarkably incapable of actually hitting the pesky hobgoblin which stands right next to her. AC 8 (was supposed to be d20+2) and AC 4 - and the second one was blocked by the underbrush, anyhow. She steps 5 feet to J7 to have at least a tiny bit of cover from the tree.

"An ally is needed over here," she announces.

Honor Bright (Kathy)
Thursday July 30th, 2020 12:54:12 PM
Honor moves into position to attack the hobgoblins. [Because she'll have to double-move anyway, she goes all the way to J-8 so she'll be in a slightly better position. She goes mostly via column K to avoid AoOs.]

"I'm here, Mundhildur!" she says. "I'm not going to let you have all the fun!"

Zeoll the Greensinger | AC16, 10hp | Cayzle d20-2=16 ; d8+1=4 ;
Thursday July 30th, 2020 11:02:05 PM

Zeoll throws a spear into the melee, taking the -4 to hit. He also maintains the Inspire Courage for +1 to attacks and damage.

He hits AC16, despite the penalty for throwing into melee. The old liontaur inflicts 4 damage to hob a.

Then Zeoll moves toward the two sleeping dogs.

Petty-DM Cayzle - Battle At The River, Round 4 - Jockeying for Position d20+4=5 ; d20+4=7 ;
Thursday July 30th, 2020 11:06:01 PM

Elron double-moves to the fight.

So does Honor.

Asimov shoots and misses.

Mundhi steps up, swings twice, and misses.

Zeoll tosses a spear at hob a, doing 4 hp damage. Then Zeoll moves.

=====

The two hobs step back and fire at Honor. Both miss badly.

=====

Dogs - AC13
Dog 1 - Sleep
Dog 2 - dead
Dog 3 - Sleep

Hobgoblins - AC16, Touch12
Hob a - 5 dam
Hob b - 0 dam

And the map!

Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant (Kim) AC 18 Touch 13 FF13 HP 10/11 d20+2=6 ; d100=31 ;
Friday July 31st, 2020 1:57:37 AM

The tall woman continues her ineffectual attacks. MundhiLDUR (remember her full first name, she doesn't really go by 'Mundhi') takes a 5-foot step to J6 and uses her longspear to poke at some branches to the right of where hobgoblin 'b' stands. "Please move to the place that I am aiming my weapon, little fellow." she requests.

Asimov | Hugh | AC 15/12/13 HP 12/12 d20+3=13 ; d3+1=2 ;
Friday July 31st, 2020 8:44:35 AM
Asimov moves up to K10 and fires off another round from the old freeze ray at hobgoblin a hitting it with an orb of cold.
(13 vs 12 = hit; 2 damage)

technomancer
Active Effect:
Bardic Performance : +1 attack and damage

SteveM - Elron | AC 21, HP 10 d20-1=1 ; d20-1=12 ;
Friday July 31st, 2020 11:10:55 AM
Elron steps forward and unleashes on the hobgoblin in front of him. He fails to connect, but perhaps the unrestrained fury of a kung-fu chicken will give the creature pause.

Honor Bright (Kathy) d20+4=7 ;
Friday July 31st, 2020 1:07:52 PM
Honor steps up and attacks a hobgoblin. [If hobgoblin A is still up, Honor moves to I-7 and attacks it. If not, Honor moves to H-6 and attacks hobgoblin B.]

Her swing goes wide, however.

Zeoll the Greensinger | AC16, 10hp | Cayzle
Friday July 31st, 2020 2:57:30 PM
OOC: Please remember to add the +1 to hit and damage from Inspire Courage!

Zeoll casts Guidance and draws a spear.

Spells used: Sleep
Bard Perform Used: round 2 of 14

Petty-DM Cayzle - Battle At The River, Round 5 - Swings and Misses d20+4=6 ; d20+4=16 ; d8=8 ;
Friday July 31st, 2020 3:14:45 PM

Mundhi steps up, attacks and misses.

Asimov steps up, shoots and hits hob a for 2 damage.

Elron steps up, attacks and misses.

Honor steps up, attacks and misses.

Zeoll casts Guidance and draws a spear.

=====

Somewhat wounded Hob A takes a step back and shouts, "Shoot the mage!" Both fire at Asimov, hitting ACs 6 and 16. The latter hits Asimov for 8 damage.

Hob B, unwounded, steps back 15 ft through the underbrush to take (partial) cover behind a tree). That gives Mundhildur an AoO with her reach weapon. Please take an AoO vs AC16 to hit Hob Aas he steps back.

=====

Dogs - AC13
Dog 1 - Sleep
Dog 2 - dead
Dog 3 - Sleep

Hobgoblins - AC16, Touch12 Hob a has a +1 cover bonus to AC.
Hob a - 7 dam
Hob b - 0 dam (plus AoO to come)

And the map!

Note: Trees: The most important terrain element in a forest is the trees, obviously. A creature standing in the same square as a tree gains partial cover, which grants a +2 bonus to Armor Class and a +1 bonus on Reflex saves. The presence of a tree doesn't otherwise affect a creature's fighting space, because it's assumed that the creature is using the tree to its advantage when it can. The trunk of a typical tree has AC 4, hardness 5, and 150 hp. A DC 15 Climb check is sufficient to climb a tree.

Undergrowth: Vines, roots, and short bushes cover much of the ground in a forest. A space covered with light undergrowth costs 2 squares of movement to move into, and provides concealment. Undergrowth increases the DC of Acrobatics and Stealth checks by 2 because the leaves and branches get in the way.

Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant (Kim) AC 18 Touch 13 FF13 HP 9/11 d20+3=18 ; d8+3=11 ; d100=17 ; d100=74 ; d20+3=14 ; d100=53 ; d8+3=6 ;
Friday July 31st, 2020 7:48:53 PM

Mundhildur took an excellent shot (AoO) at hobgoblin 'A'. Hit AC 18 for 11 hp damage. Now, 'A' is shown as being right at the edge of a brushy area. And a 17/100 was rolled. So, is that a 20% miss chance? Munhildur heroically thrusts through the blocking brush, and her longspear makes its point. That pesky evil little green archer, if he survives, will not forget how he obeyed the Jotun's instruction to 'move to the place where I am aiming.'

Used 1 hero point to reroll brush obstacle. Because she was getting ticked off.

She withdraws the spear, and thrusts again, but does not quite penetrate the armor the archer is wearing, hitting AC 14. But just in case there is some circumstance that improves her odds, should it hit, that's another 6 hp damage.

Edit: And she moves to I6, to gain tree coverage, and to be closer to our opponents.
Edit: Fix hp in header

Asimov | Hugh | AC 17/14/15 HP 4/12
Friday July 31st, 2020 11:42:34 PM
Asimov curses. He pressed his luck too much and he got hit and badly. He moves to L12 taking advantage of the tree for cover.

He then swiftly retrieves a capsule from his belt and downs it. (resistance capsule)

technomancer
Active Effect:
Bardic Performance : +1 attack and damage
Tree Cover: +2 AC; +1 reflex save
resistance: +1 saving throws - 10 rounds

SteveM - Elron | AC 21, HP 10 d20-1=11 ; d20-1=1 ;
Saturday August 1st, 2020 11:09:49 AM
Elron continues his unsuccessful attempts to impress upon the one hobgoblin that it has made a mistake (5' step, flurry of blows AC 11 and 1 -- ok, 12 and 2 if I'd remembered the inspiration)...

"Don't, I say, don't let 'em draw us too far from the wagons. Could be more."

Honor Bright (Kathy) d20+5=22 ; d100=40 ; d8=5 ;
Saturday August 1st, 2020 2:21:20 PM
"Zeoll is still back by the carts," Honor reassures Elron.

She steps up to the hobgoblin [H-6], and tries again. This blow is better aimed. [Hit AC 22; 40 on the miss chance; for 9 damage.]

Zeoll the Greensinger | AC16, 10hp | Cayzle 3d8+3=13 ;
Monday August 3rd, 2020 9:44:16 PM

Zeoll uses the round to coup de gras a sleeping dog. No roll is needed, and he inflicts an auto-crit. With a spear and his own inspiration, he inflicts 13 damage. That kills it, so no need to worry about a save vs death.

The liontaur continues his inspirational song.

Petty-DM Cayzle - Battle At The River, Round 6 - "SAVE YOURSELF" d20+4=13 ; d20+3=14 (2 swings 2 misses)
Monday August 3rd, 2020 10:06:20 PM

Mundhi took a great AoO at Hob B as it moved away from her last round, but his concealment saved him from taking damage.

[OOC to Mundhildur: Sorry, per the rules, you can only use a hero point to reroll a d20, NOT a d100. Save your hero point please.]

THIS ROUND,

Mundhi takes a step forward, with a tree for cover, and pokes at Hob A, and hits AC14, a miss. If she has ignored Zeoll's inspirational song, then she hit AC15, but that's still one shy of landing a blow..

Asimov retreats and buffs himself.

Elron steps up, attacks and misses.

Honor steps up, attacks and hits! Hob A is sorely wounded now!

Singing Zeoll puts down an ugly dog.

=====

Now very wounded Hob A takes a step back and shoots at Honor. He hits AC13, a miss. "RUN STONETOOTH! RUN!!" he shouts, "I"LL HOLD THEM BACK! SAVE YOURSELF!"

Hob B yells "NO WAY!" He drops his bow, draws his sword, and comes to stand between Hob A and Honor. He swings and hits AC14, a miss. He curses in frustration.

=====

Dogs - AC13
Dog 1 - dead
Dog 2 - dead
Dog 3 - sleep

Hobgoblins - AC16, Touch12 BOTH have concealment, neither has partial cover.
Hob a - 16 dam
Hob b - 0 dam

And the map!

Note: Trees: The most important terrain element in a forest is the trees, obviously. A creature standing in the same square as a tree gains partial cover, which grants a +2 bonus to Armor Class and a +1 bonus on Reflex saves. The presence of a tree doesn't otherwise affect a creature's fighting space, because it's assumed that the creature is using the tree to its advantage when it can. The trunk of a typical tree has AC 4, hardness 5, and 150 hp. A DC 15 Climb check is sufficient to climb a tree.

Undergrowth: Vines, roots, and short bushes cover much of the ground in a forest. A space covered with light undergrowth costs 2 squares of movement to move into, and provides concealment. Undergrowth increases the DC of Acrobatics and Stealth checks by 2 because the leaves and branches get in the way.

Asimov | Hugh | AC 17/14/15 HP 4/12
Monday August 3rd, 2020 11:08:20 PM
Asimov calls out from behind the tree, "You two seem to be devoted comrades in arms! I don't suppose you attacking us was some kind of misunderstanding? Is there anyway to potentially resolve our conflict peacefully? We are supposed to be the good guys and self-sacrifice is something good guys do so I have to wonder are you folks supposed to be the good guys too?"

SteveM - Elron | AC 21, HP 10 d20-1=8 ; d20-1=10 ;
Monday August 3rd, 2020 11:50:07 PM
Elron steps to F6 and swings at the already damaged gob.

The fellow probably finds the breeze comforting (ACs 8 and 10 both miss).

Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant (Kim) AC 18 Touch 13 FF13 HP 9/11 d100=26 ; d20+3=12 ; d100=75 ; d20+3=22 ; d8+3=8 ;
Tuesday August 4th, 2020 12:25:05 AM

As Stonetooth has just brought himself into range of her longspear, Mundhildur takes an attack of opportunity, which misses (AC 12). Then she takes her normal attack and this time strikes home against the fellow who has shown loyalty to a comrade in arms, for he threatens Honor, and he did just say a bad word. Her longspear does 8 hp damage.

"Throw down your arms, hobgoblins, or no mercy shall be shown you."

She does have some cover from the tree in her area.
===============
Thanks for that explanation, Cayzle. Returning the hero point

Honor Bright (Kathy)
Tuesday August 4th, 2020 2:29:55 PM
Honor moves Virtue to a guard position. "If you wish to surrender," she tells the hobgoblins, "I will accept, and I offer my pledge for your safety."

Her action this round is total defense.

Zeoll the Greensinger | AC16, 10hp | Cayzle
Tuesday August 4th, 2020 10:03:59 PM

Hearing what is going on, Zeoll ceases his song and takes out his sap. He can nonlethally coup de gras with that next round if he decides to.

Petty-DM Cayzle - Battle At The River, resolution
Tuesday August 4th, 2020 10:08:54 PM

Stonetooth throws down his sword and says sarcastically, "Oh yeah, we catch you red-handed stealing from our trap, and YOU'RE the good guys! Well, fine, since you beat us and we have to be grateful for your mercy, we'll take it. Keep the varmint, we want our trap back. And our dogs, if any of them are still alive."

His friend is more conciliatory, and sets down his bow gently. Being at exactly zero hit points makes one more peaceful like, maybe.

"Okay, okay, yeah. Chalk it up to a misunderstanding. If you don't mind, we'll make our good-byes. No hard feelings, right? Can we go?"

Stonetooth mutters, "Dirty thieves."

The hobgoblins have essentially disarmed and surrendered. Battle is over.

Asimov | Hugh | AC 17/14/15 HP 4/12
Wednesday August 5th, 2020 12:59:26 AM
Asimov feels a little embarrassed, he says, "Oh I never thought about it that way. We saw a poor fox suffering and thought we could help. You two seem competent enough with your bows. Why resort to such cruelty when you could prolly take your prey out cleanly at range? I like mechanical things and see potential for your trap to be a combat aid potentially at some point in the future, if someone with the right inclination could attach gears at certain places on it."

Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant (Kim) AC 18 Touch 13 FF13 HP 9/11 d20+3=16 ;
Wednesday August 5th, 2020 2:41:00 AM

"Thieves, are we? You shot, what, eight arrows at me? Murderers at heart, you are." She reaches down to take up the sword, and with the other hand the bow. She tosses both back toward where they had been (south on the map). "You give me five more of your arrows. We keep the one bow, and the sword. You have another bow, keep it. You ever attack us again, then no quarter. And, yes, the fox is not yours."

Mundhildur leaves it to the others in the group as to any other conditions they wish to lay down.

Perception 16: Have these trappers anything else of apparent value?

SteveM - Elron | AC 21, HP 10
Wednesday August 5th, 2020 6:53:53 AM
Elron is perplexed, and strongly tempted to keep whappin' just for its own sake. But...

"You've, I say, you've got some nerve sneering at us when folks in your own back yard go about torturing and killin' in needlessly cruel ways." If the tree where ythe fairies were pined in still in view, he points to it -- otherwise he gestures vaguely. "What's the deal with that?"

Honor Bright (Kathy)
Wednesday August 5th, 2020 1:27:56 PM
"Surely no one would quarrel with hunters seeking game," Honor says, returning Virtue to its sheath. "But we all have a duty to prevent needless suffering, even of animals. Your trap is cruel. I'm sure you did not intend to cause suffering, but you did. I think it would be better to find a different way to hunt game in the future, don't you agree?"

Zeoll the Greensinger | AC16, 10hp | Cayzle
Wednesday August 5th, 2020 2:25:17 PM

Zeoll refrains from killing another dog and does not even whap it. "Come get yourr dog," he says. "But we arre keeping this trrap. It is too crruel. Use yourr arrrows and be happy to be alive."

He pauses and calls to his Giant friend, "Mundhi, if we take the trrap, we gotta give them theirr bows. It's only fairr."

The old liontaur adds in a softer voice, "They need the trrap because they arre not verry good archerrs, clearly. But too bad."

Petty-DM Cayzle - Battle At The River, resolution
Wednesday August 5th, 2020 2:29:54 PM

The most wounded hobgoblin gives Stonetooth a deadly look, and speaks for both of them. "We don't know anything about whatever the rooster is talking about."

(The fairy tree is a ways back, by the way. A half a mile at least?)

"Fine, we'll take our bows to hunt with. You keep the trap and the vermin, just give us our dogs."

If no one complains, they collect the one dog, the bow if Mundhildur relinquishes it, and they leave. Any objections?

Petty-DM Cayzle - Battle At The River, aftermath d20+11=13 ;
Wednesday August 5th, 2020 2:33:29 PM
Oh, one more thing.

Perception DC13: Highlight to display spoiler: {You see the formerly trapped fox hiding close by, watching you all.}

Honor Bright (Kathy) d20+3=6 ;
Wednesday August 5th, 2020 5:59:19 PM
Honor has no objection to letting the hobgoblins keep their bows and arrows in exchange for the trap. She is also fine with Asimov keeping the trap, since he had expressed an interest in modifying it.

"We should be on our way," she tells her companions.

SteveM - Elron | AC 21, HP 10 d20+10=28 ;
Wednesday August 5th, 2020 11:15:33 PM
(perception = 28)

"Leave? Well that depends, Do you know anything about the forest around the elder tree? We might, I say, we might be able to rustle up some grub for your troubles," Elron assumes there's some food with the wagons. Maybe he should've paid more attention to the provisioning.

Elron does not point out the fox while the hobgoblins are there, although he's itching to take a swing at it himself.

Asimov | Hugh | AC 17/14/15 HP 4/12 d20+5=11 ;
Wednesday August 5th, 2020 11:24:26 PM
Perception: 11

Asimov does not sense anything nearby but he says to Zeoll, "If you give me the trap I promise you to not use it against little defenseless animals and once I figure out how to animate it I will always put it back when I'm done with it so that it won't just be left lying around for someone to step in."

To the trappers he says, "Yes, if you folks are looking for food we do have some to spare and we are on a mission to save a sick child and need to reach this Elder Tree for one fo the ingredients for medicine she needs. We'd gladly give you some if you had anything to share regarding it."

Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant (Kim) AC 18 Touch 13 FF13 HP 9/11 d20+3=4 ;
Thursday August 6th, 2020 12:54:07 AM

The young giant thinks over what Zeoll said. "Very well." She picks up the bow and sword, and hands them over to their respective owners. She allows them to keep all the arrows, except the two that struck her. "You don't walk away with my blood."

"Where did the fox go? Anyone track?"
==========
She has no clue whatsoever where the fox is. Perception: 4. Right. I peeked.

Zeoll the Greensinger | AC16, 10hp | Cayzle d20+5=21 ;
Thursday August 6th, 2020 7:30:47 AM

Zeoll sees the fox peeking at Mundhi. (Perception 21)

He is content to see the hobs on their way.

After the creatures go, he looks at his wounded comrade. "You look prretty beat up, Asimov. Hmmm"

The liontaur considers that he really needs to learn some healing magic.

"Lady Honorr, perrhaps you have some firrst aid forr ourr technological frriend?"

Scene 2 - The Tree

Petty-DM Cayzle - Into the Woods
Thursday August 6th, 2020 7:47:32 AM

The hobgoblins have no knowledge of this Elder Tree, either, and no desire to eat the party's food, evidently. So the party is content to send them on their way. The trail leaves the river and heads deeper into the woods.

Entering the forest, you realize that it actually seems quite lovely. There are a few small clearings here and there that would make ideal picnic spots.

Looking ahead, the road dwindles to a footpath, and the forest gets darker and more overgrown. The wagons will not be able to proceed further. Already today you have found the dead fey, buried them, explored a bit to the river, traveled the road, fought the hobgoblins, and traveled some more. Maybe one of these little glades would make a good place to park the wagons and rest?

Honor Bright (Kathy) d20+5=18 ;
Thursday August 6th, 2020 2:01:37 PM
"Um. I can try," Honor says to Zeoll.

Taking out her healer's kit, she tries to use her Healing skill to treat deadly wounds on Asimov. She fails.

"I'm sorry," she says to Asimov. "I've had the basic training, but honestly I'm not very good at this."

She helps Asimov find a comfortable place in the cart before they continue on.

When the group stops for the day, she helps set up camp.

Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant (Kim) AC 18 Touch 13 FF13 HP 9/11 d20=10 ;
Thursday August 6th, 2020 2:11:29 PM

"So, no one sees fox? Can no one track? The animal needs more care. Let us find it, and see if he will come with us." Having asked, may I presume that Zeoll tells her? If so...

Mundhildur speaks to the poor creature in soothing tones. "Handsome red one. May we make friends?" She takes out her waterskin, and pours a bit into the palm of her fair-sized hand. "You must be thirsty, no?"

Slowly, carefully, she approaches and kneels down. "Here, take some water." If he (change to 'she' if a vixen) does not take that, the Jotun tamps down the ground, and pours a bit of water there, then moves back a foot or two. "It's good. Drink, lovely one." "May I call you 'Refur'? Because, you may need to re-fur around your poor leg. And that is what we call the fox in the Giant tongue."

Mundhildur knows that Azimov did something to try to help the animal. She looks to see if whatever he gave it had a positive effect.

She does not have the handle animal skill, and diplomacy may not apply. Here's a simple d20 to gauge the measure of her success, or otherwise - 10. Perhaps the earlier kindness may add to that roll.

If the fox will, she will see if it wants to go along with them - perhaps ride in the wagon until the limb heals further. If the fox comes, she will provide some food.

...

At the point the wagons can go no further, the tall one suggests, "We have seen some good places here. Now we rest, eat, conceal the wagons?" she asks. "How about that spot? One wagon we can push behind those bushes. The other, we find a place. The horses and my mules can carry what they can from the wagons when we set out on the morrow, do you think?"

If the fox has come along, she sees if they can bond further. She knows that some of her companions need healing. And Refur, too.

SteveM - Elron | AC 21, HP 10
Thursday August 6th, 2020 9:09:19 PM
"NO! Mundhilduh, that is a fox. You got to realize -- they're no good. A fox is like a -- a -- a fox. They're killin' machines!" Elron has a hard time putting the visciousness of the cute varmint into words, and wants the party to have nothing more to do with the fox. He should have put it out of its misery when he had the chance.

---

When the wagons will go no further, Elron's all for staying with them through the night and deciding what to do with them in the morning.

To be clear, is this the main road that the wagons can't travel further on, or a side path to the Elder tree?

Asimov | Hugh | AC 17/14/15 HP 4/12
Thursday August 6th, 2020 11:44:00 PM
While Mundhildur is playing with the fox and Elron is counciling her against it Asimov says to Elron, "It is just a small fox. It isn't like it is ginormous, has 9 tails and likes to go on killing rampages through hidden villages or anything. If Mundhildur wants to have a pet, can't she have one?"

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

Asimov says to Honor, "I appreciate the effort. I only built one device that can be used for healing and I exhausted it on the fox. Tomorrow I'll build 2 more healing devices and something that can make me slightly harder to kill."

When they stop in the clearing for the night he says, "would you folks be okay if I didn't take a turn at watch in the interest of trying to heal up? I mean I will if you really want me too but I don't know how good I"ll be at it in my present condition."

Zeoll the Greensinger | AC16, 10hp | Cayzle
Friday August 7th, 2020 5:47:13 AM

Zeoll grins as he comes to realize that foxes, generally speaking, are kind of like racial enemies to ... chickenfolk? He tries to reassure Elron.

"I think I underrstand yourr concerrns, my frriend, but in this case they seem misplaced. You alone arre twice the crreaturre's size, and the rrest of us farr surrpass it."

Zeoll tries to help Mundhildur with befriending the fox. He uses his speak with animals ability. It only lasts four rounds, but thats enough to say, in foxish, Highlight to display spoiler: {"This is Mundhi. She wants to be your friend. She will take good care of you. Do not be afraid." [OOC: Yes, using the SLA, Zeoll does not have his usual accent.]}

The liontaur, though old in spirit, relishes using his hale middle-aged body to help hide the wagons, set up camp, and take a watch. "You rrest, frriend Asimov! You'll feel betterr in the morrning."

Privately, he reassures Honor, thanking her for doing her best. "We'll all get betterr at doing what we do, I think. We arre still beginning adventurrerrs."

Petty-DM Cayzle - Whichaways?
Friday August 7th, 2020 6:02:19 AM

The party sets up a camp and rests. Honor, Zeoll, Mundhildur, and Elron each take a watch.

The morning dawns with natural beauty. Per the rules, with a full night's rest, you recover 1 hit point per character level. The fox, though by no means tame (that would require some Handle Animal or similar), nonetheless stays nearby, and you see it from time to time, especially Mundhi and Zeoll.

You leave your wagons and beasts behind, loosely staked, presumably?

Walking onward, the road becomes a track, and then a path; there is no other way to go. The forest becomes dense. Thick brush, large surface roots, and closely nestled trees make it difficult for travelers to progress. Eventually, even the footpath peters out. Going forward, there are no trails to follow -- people avoid the thick areas of this forest.

The fox, though, has no trouble following you. It does so quite stealthily, but every now and then someone spots it poking its head up to look around.

It’s a warm day and the forest is peaceful. Slight breeze, with a few sunbeams shining through the canopy of leaves overhead. That said, how do you proceed with no path to follow?

Honor Bright (Kathy)
Friday August 7th, 2020 2:01:36 PM
Fully armored and further encumbered by a shield, Honor has a lot of trouble navigating the dense forest. She trips and falls--again--on a root, and actually considers saying a bad word.

When the trail goes, she is no help at all. She uses Detect Evil in all directions, and when she [presumably] finds nothing, she is out of ideas.

SteveM - Elron | AC 21, HP 10
Friday August 7th, 2020 4:01:35 PM
Elron sulks through the night. These folks just don't want to understand. Foxes kill. He doubts that Zeoll would welcome Mundhildur bringing her pet hell hound along -- Elron's sure she might have one of those back home, too. The girl's already proven she's got too big a heart. . . but Elron can't bring himself to break it. He's just got to focus on their common goal of helping that little Dani, and be subtle as he protects Mundi from the red terror.

In the morning, it just doesn't feel like a singing day. Elron walks along with the others, very aware of what's following them.

As the party gets to the point where they have no path, Elron has only one idea how to proceed. He can't carry it out himself. But only one of them might be familiar with the area, so Elron waits to see what the others come up with.

Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant (Kim) AC 18 Touch 13 FF13 HP 10/11
Friday August 7th, 2020 8:16:41 PM

"Elron, I know that foxes kill," Mundhildur speaks in a soft voice. "They go for rabbits, squirrels, frogs, mice, maybe worms, and berries, but also for eggs, and roosting birds. You have seen that, I think. And no doubt you have defended yours from such. I can't change that a fox must eat. He will help us. He will not dare attack you. Give me time. I will teach him. And learn of him. And learn of you."

Before they rest for the night, she pulls from Azimov's wagon a device. "Here, Elron. This is your perch bed." She hands over a wooden device shaped exactly as he requested back in the mansion. "I found a carpenter."

Once a day she will set out a small amount of food for the fox. Not enough to fill his stomach for the day, but something to show care and provision.

"Azimov, you are very brave. To offer kind words to those who injure you. Foolish in a way. But kind and brave. I wish I could heal you, but my hands lack that skill."

She brings with her the mule she calls Sled, carrying a few things. Mules usually can travel even through tough territory, but she will see how he does. Rockhead she leaves back with the other critters, on a 40' tether near them - within reach one direction, out of reach the other. She digs two troughs, uses some of her canvas, and makes a place for the equines to drink water. It looks like there is enough grass and plants to graze on, if they are not gone from them too long.

Going through the wood, she is willing to take the lead from time to time, using her seven-foot staff to beat away bushes and such, using her weight to break sticks and navigable obstacles out of the way. She helps make a path. "If anyone knows a good direction to go, then tell us." Otherwise, she heads in the general direction she think the tree must be.

At times she hums tunes. Once in a while, short phrases from songs come out her lips.

Asimov | Hugh | AC 17/14/15 HP 12/12 d8+1=8 ;
Saturday August 8th, 2020 9:30:44 AM
Asimov sleeps soundly in the wagon bed. He wakes having healed a little naturally. That morning he studies his design folio and tinkers with the components in his belt to produce 2 medihaler lights, a compass, a freeze ray and a pill bottle full of lesser temporary health improvement capsules.

After he has completed his device creation for the day he immediately inhales some of the healing vapors from the medihaler, fully healing the rest of the damage he sustained the previous day.

To Munhildur he says, "I should've been more careful. The trees were providing good enough cover. I could have changed from my freeze ray to my crossbow."

As they go off trail he takes the map that was provided for them and the compass he created that morning in order to help hopefully lead the way to the elder tree.

The compass means that every time Asimov uses it he knows for certain which way is North.

=================
Device Prepared:
0: compass, freeze ray, lesser temporary health improvement capsules
1st medihaler light, medihaler light - x

Zeoll the Greensinger | AC16, 10hp | Cayzle d20+6=7 ; d20+7=22 ;
Saturday August 8th, 2020 9:07:36 PM

Zeoll helps howsoever he can to find a way forward and consults with Asimov regarding the direction to go. He prays for Guidance as he scouts.

Survival 7
Know Nature 22

Petty-DM Cayzle - Whichaways?
Saturday August 8th, 2020 9:14:14 PM
OOC: Oops, your DM failed to reconcile the module text (says one thing) with the map (says another). Let's retcon a smidge and assume that the road continued along the river, but you followed a path that broke off north towards where the map suggested the Tree should be. How's that?

Honor casts about for evil, but finds none.

Elron also finds himself at a loss.

Mundhildur works well to offer comfort and friendship to her comrades.

Asimov and Zeoll work to figure out a way to go.

Together, the two lead the party north. The party comes across a small camp. There's a burnt-out fire, two sleeping mats, bones from some type of animal (pheasant?), some chains with spiked collars. This seems like a safe place. It smells really bad though.

It seems pretty clear that this is the hobgoblin camp, and that they have not returned here.

Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant (Kim) AC 18 Touch 13 FF13 HP 10/11
Sunday August 9th, 2020 10:00:46 AM

"They know nothing about the Elder Tree. Yet they camped close to it. Liars they are, maybe," Mundhildur comments to Honor. "Maybe."

"You think of having children someday with husband man?" she asks the aasimar warrior. "I think soon, maybe in twenty, thirty years, I find mate, and we have children. Four, five, six." Then she changes the subject again. "Nice sword," she comments on Honor's main weapon.

SteveM - Elron | AC 21, HP 10 d20+10=18 ;
Sunday August 9th, 2020 12:23:06 PM
Elron looks around the camp, and carefully pokes through anything left behind a bit. (Perception = 18) In particular, he wonders if there are any more traps. However, he's not interested in sticking around unless there is clearly something of interest.

"It’s sure, I say, it’s sure quiet 'round here. Do you suppose that those two fellers would'a 'bandoned their camp because of somethin' we did, or somethin' else?"

Honor Bright (Kathy)
Sunday August 9th, 2020 5:01:22 PM
Honor gives Mundhildur a puzzled look. "Have you been talking to my mum?" she asks.

To Elron, she says, "well, we did tell them to leave, so I guess they didn't bother coming back here for their things."

[OOC: what time of day is it?]

Asimov | Hugh | AC 15/12/13 HP 12/12
Sunday August 9th, 2020 9:11:12 PM
Asimov says, "I don't know Elron. I mean they called us as thieves maybe they didn't want to stay in a place with high crime?"

To the group he says, "Am I the only one here who has the capability to heal people because I only have one medihaler lights on the day. I used one to fully heal myself and I can only make 2 per day. I mean my devices can do a lot of things but I wonder if for the time being I just make medihalers for now?"

Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant (Kim) AC 18 Touch 13 FF13 HP 10/11
Monday August 10th, 2020 9:48:44 AM

"Your mother? I do not yet know your mother," Mundhildur responds to Honor.

"Good question, Elron."

"It is well, Asimov, you can make these, these little healers, and you are well now. Your cheeks have a tiny bit of color in them again. Maybe a good idea to make more of them. What else can you make?"

Zeoll the Greensinger | AC16, 10hp | Cayzle d20+5=10 ;
Monday August 10th, 2020 11:06:18 AM

Zeoll enjoys the conversation about motherhood, but does not join in. As a confirmed bachelor, the old taur knows not to touch this topic himself!

He tells Asimov that he hopes to add curing to his capabilities soon, but for now it looks like he is the party healer.

Zeoll takes Elron's concern seriously, and helps him look around. Perception 10 to aid another.

Petty-DM Cayzle - Whichaways?
Monday August 10th, 2020 11:10:13 AM

The party used the early morning to prep, heal, and get to know each other. Then to travel a couple miles to this site. So that makes it mid-morning to find this campsite.

Zeoll and Elron do hear something alarming! Soon the sounds are loud enough for everyone to sense.

From the north the party hear screams. Two male voices. It sounds like they are terrified!

In the distance, through the trees, you see these lads running and scrambling as fast as they can towards you.

One, seeing you, yells, “Run! Demon! Get out of the way!”

Honor Bright (Kathy)
Monday August 10th, 2020 3:10:06 PM
Honor lights up. "A demon? Really? Where?!"

SteveM - Elron | AC 21, HP 10
Monday August 10th, 2020 5:18:32 PM
Elron looks to see who's approaching and whether they're being followed.

Asimov | Hugh | AC 15/12/13 HP 12/12 d20+5=13 ;
Monday August 10th, 2020 10:18:12 PM
Asimov says to Mundhildur well I can make

(Perception: 13)

Asimov says to Mundhildur, "Well I can make a number of things really. I just can't really make that many per day right now. I can make wrist rockets, my medihalers, an elemental shield, a growth ray, a shrink ray, a parachute and a primitive trap detector among other things."

He says to Honor, "Most people don't perk up when someone says a demon is coming."

Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant (Kim) AC 18 Touch 13 FF13 HP 10/11
Tuesday August 11th, 2020 1:21:38 AM

"How did you come to be so clever?" Mundhildur asks Asimov. "I don't even know what all those things are."

As the two boys - young men? - give warning, the Jotun takes off of Rockhead the mule a coil of three-part silk rope. She hands one end to Zeoll. "Here, singer, take this end, wrap it twice around that tree over there, about three or four feet high. Then hide behind that tree. I'll take the rest of the rope, and get behind the other one on the other side of the path the lads came down. Just as the demon is about to cross, I will pull back and lift it off the ground to catch it before it can go farther. Maybe it will wrap around its waist. Maybe it will trip and fall." Once Zeoll has his end firmly in hand, she crosses to the other side, and makes a loop around her waist. She prepares to haul back at the appropriate time. Her right holds the longspear. She takes a moment to ensure it will be hard to see her from anyone coming the direction the lads just traveled. She makes sure some leaves or brush break the contours of her face, but with enough visibility so that she can see movement along the pathway. "Anyone want to cover the rope in the middle with a little grass?" Oh, Rockhead? She bribes him to get off the pathway with a carrot.

If she sees a demon or something coming along, she will wait until the being is almost there, then pull back on the rope so as to lift the line about three feet off the ground if the demon is medium sized. Slightly higher if it is taller. Lower if smaller.

Zeoll the Greensinger | AC16, 10hp | Cayzle
Tuesday August 11th, 2020 10:42:34 AM

Zeoll readily agrees to try Mundhi's tactic. He takes the rope and prepares to brace it as a form of a primitive trap.

Zeoll the Greensinger | AC16, 10hp | Cayzle d20=5 ;
Tuesday August 11th, 2020 10:50:48 AM
Zeoll extra:

"Hey wait," says Zeoll. "I can do that and one betterr!"

The liontaur ties the rope around himself for the bracing, but leaves his hands free.

Then he tries his best to hide in the underbrush behind the tree ... untrained stealth 5. hmmm ...

But Zeoll also readies an Animate Rope spell to make the primitive trap even more effective.

"Mundhi, if it worrks, the rrope will also trry to entangle him. If it does not worrk, thrrow yourr end of the rrope at the demon and it can maybe grrab onto the monsterr."

Petty-DM Cayzle - Whichaways?
Tuesday August 11th, 2020 11:09:48 AM

[OOC: Two of my fabulous players say they are looking for an enemy, but I see no perception checks! If it is hiding in the concealment of the underbrush, your chance of seeing it is zero unless you roll!]

Honor and Elron think about searching for the demon, but don't get around to actually doing so yet.

Asimov, on the other hand, misses nary a beat of his conversation while also keeping a sharp lookout!

Zeoll and Mundhildur set up a primitive rope trap, to be enhanced at the exact right time by a spell. Still, the two are not subtle: Zeoll's large bulk does not really hide too well behind the narrow trunk, and Mundhi does not even try to hide!

The two young men race up to you. One is human, the other a half-elf. You’d put them in their late teens. Still youths. They have a few small cuts and scratches from running through the forest so fast. Their faces, hands and clothes look a bit grubby too from falling and scrambling so fast. They are obviously scared of something.

They stop in front of Honor, Elron, and Asimov. They pant out, "DEMON!"

Asimov sees no sign of demon or other pursuit.

"No really, we saw it. A huge blobby thing with claws and big teeth and a piggy nose." says one.

"Yeah, fat and droopy and strong and ugly as sin!" says the other.

Knowledge Planes DC12: Highlight to display spoiler: {The boys are describing a very weak kind of common demon called a "dretch"}

If you make an intelligence check vs DC10: Highlight to display spoiler: {You may recall that Horatio told the party "one man swore he saw a demon there".}

SteveM - Elron | AC 21, HP 10 d20-1=8 ;
Tuesday August 11th, 2020 2:00:39 PM
"Now, son, it's no use runnin' 'round like the most unfortunate o' chickens. We got us a paladin here who fights that sort o' thing. But she's gonna need a bit more information. How far back did you see the thing?"

Honor Bright (Kathy) d20+3=8 ;
Tuesday August 11th, 2020 3:03:49 PM
Honor smiles at Asimov. "If there is a demon, I can smite it," she says. "Or, I can fall nobly in the battle against the forces of Evil. Obviously, I'd prefer the first one, but either would be grand."

"Where?" she asks the youths again. "Where is this demon?"

[Since the DM seems to want one, here is Perception check: 8. But, to be fair to Honor, she was not so much looking for the demon as asking the witnesses where it was.]

Asimov | Hugh | AC 15/12/13 HP 12/12
Tuesday August 11th, 2020 10:58:28 PM
Asimov says to Mundhildur, "Well I'm not from around here originally, the Wold I mean. I don't know how I got here. One day I just was here. I must have traveled quite a ways through Jericho space somehow. Where I'm from the things I described to you are pervasive and there are even more advanced things than that. I mean I don't know if what I do is me remembering things from wear I can from and building them here or me interacting with the magic of this place to create a reasonable fascimile. Regardless, I think I'm the only one who can do what I can do. We also don't really have demons where I'm from, well not literally."

To Honor he says, "Definitely hope it is the former."

He asks, "Do demons not like cold or do I need to switch to my crossbow if we are fighting it?"

=================
Device Prepared:
0: compass, freeze ray, lesser temporary health improvement capsules
1st medihaler light, medihaler light - x

Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant (Kim) AC 18 Touch 13 FF13 HP 10/11 d20+2=18 ; d20+3=18 ; d20+1=6 ;
Wednesday August 12th, 2020 3:47:45 AM

Mundhildur reacts to Azimov's revelation with astonishment. "By Harald's Biceps - I've never met one with your story before."

Well, Mundhildur did stand behind a tree, and ensured that some sort of foliage would be between her and whatever may or may not be coming... that seems a bit like hiding.

She likes Zeoll's suggestions, and sets up to comply. "We might have to go back the direction the lads came. Do you want to guide us there, brave ones?" she asks the young human and half elf.
=================
Stealth, untrained: 18 - plus any adjustments to being mainly behind a tree? And peering through little gaps in the foliage for movement?
Perception: 18
Intelligence check: 6

Zeoll the Greensinger | AC16, 10hp | Cayzle d20+2=18 ; d20+1=16 ;
Wednesday August 12th, 2020 8:07:47 AM

Know Planes check: 18
Int check: 16

Zeoll muses, "I think I have hearrd of demons like unto the ones these fellows descrribe. They arre called 'drretch.' And that rreminds me. Rrememberr, my frriends, that Horratio told us of a man who sworre he saw a demon in these woods."

Petty-DM Cayzle - Where's the Demon?
Wednesday August 12th, 2020 8:23:16 PM

Elron asks how far back the lads saw the demon.

"Half a mile, tops," says the human. "But I heard it chasing us!"

Honor wants more info on where the demon is.

"It's right behind us! We gotta run!"

For the record, Honor does not hear any sounds of an oncoming demonic nature.

Asimov wants to know if this demon will resist his cold attack. Good question! [OOC: Knowledge Planes can tell you more about Demons, hint)

Mundhildur asks the lads to lead the party to the demon. But they are clearly unnerved. They look at each other.

"We're not going near that thing! Good bye!"

They run off.

Zeoll offers some bardic lore. He points out that the boys left quite a trail as they crashed through the woods. Plus following the stink of their fear is easy.

SteveM - Elron | AC 21, HP 10 d20+10=24 ;
Wednesday August 12th, 2020 8:55:34 PM
"Well, Miss Honor, shall we investigate?," Elron asks, before heading the direction the boys came from. He doesn't really think there will be a demon -- something, no doubt, but not a demon. But unless the boys left a really clear trail, he slows considerably while figuring out where to go by what he can see and hear. (He has no tracking ability/ Perception = 24).

Asimov | Hugh | AC 15/12/13 HP 12/12 d20+5=14 ;
Wednesday August 12th, 2020 9:29:38 PM
(Perception: 14)

Asimov says to Elron, "I guess we are investigating the demon. Though I definitely think we need our paladin pal so she can smite it if we are going after it."

Assuming Honor and everyone moves after the demon Asimov goes to readying his crossbow on the fly. (OOC: I got a buckler because it allows for the use of a crossbow so I don't have to de-equip my shield to fuire)

Honor Bright (Kathy)
Thursday August 13th, 2020 12:23:41 AM
Actually drawing Virtue at this point would be a bit much, so Honor contents herself with a smile of grim determination as she follows Elron down the boys' trail.

Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant (Kim) AC 18 Touch 13 FF13 HP 10/11 d20+3=5 ;
Thursday August 13th, 2020 10:30:01 AM

Mundhildur watches the retreating lads, and shakes her head. "Well, Zeoll, looks like we'll be following the path of trampled plants these youth left for us. I'll coil the rope." Once the liontaur releases the rope, she does so, then sets out with her companions, guiding her mule along.

Her perception is low: 5

Asimov | Hugh | AC 15/12/13 HP 12/12
Thursday August 13th, 2020 8:41:18 PM
Asimov thinks about demons as he walks

Zeoll the Greensinger | AC16, 10hp | Cayzle d20+5=9 ; d20+5=9 ;
Friday August 14th, 2020 12:28:04 PM

Zeoll takes the lead to follow the trail, using his eyes and nose.

Perception 9
Survival 9

He hopes the trail is VERY obvious, because he is not at his best today!

Petty-DM Cayzle - Elder Tree
Friday August 14th, 2020 12:33:55 PM

Asimov and Elron have no problem finding the way. Those boys crashed through the forest as they ran!

The party follows the trail for about a half a mile. You are headed north. The forest opens up ahead and you sense that there is a large clearing ahead. The dense trees and thick brush of the forest give way, parting seemingly in respect for the titanic tree that dominates this clearing.

Several times taller than a building, in one direction the obviously ancient tree reaches into the sky with branches like a giant’s arms, while in the other direction it plumbs the earth with roots thicker than a man’s waist. Its limbs are broad and strong, its bark thick and so richly colored as to almost be black, and its leaves are the size of bucklers. The giant thing is less a tree and more a cathedral of boughs and branches.

Honor Bright (Kathy)
Friday August 14th, 2020 1:36:26 PM
"That must be the Elder Tree," Honor says, staring up at it. "Right? And we want the north side, so we'll need to work our way around it."

SteveM - Elron | AC 21, HP 10 d20+10=23 ;
Friday August 14th, 2020 5:40:23 PM
"I won, I say, I wonder what those boys were doin' here. Guess we'll never know." Elron agrees with Honor's assessment that this must be the Elder Tree, and starts working around like she indicated. He keeps an eye out for whatever frightened the boys. (Perfeption = 23)

Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant (Kim) AC 18 Touch 13 FF13 HP 10/11 d20+3=7 ;
Saturday August 15th, 2020 6:30:44 PM

"This is a tree worthy of the Jotun," says the tall woman. She approaches the trunk of the tree, and stretches out her arms. "We need your help, oh Elder Tree. That is, a young sweet girl needs your help." She finds the smoothest part of the trunk near her face, and plants a kiss.

She steps back, and says, "I think the other side is north, eh?" She walks around the tree on the side opposite of those who have started their circumnavigation.
============
Perception: 7

Asimov | Hugh | AC 15/12/13 HP 12/12 d20+5=6 ;
Saturday August 15th, 2020 10:34:28 PM
Asimov consults his compass to know just which direction North is so they can harvest what they need from the right side of the tree.

He also keeps his eyes peeled for anything (Perception 6; natural 1) but is distracted and says to Honor, "So if you have the ability to detect evil and there was a demon nearby your evil detector would be going off crazy right?"

Zeoll the Greensinger | AC16, 10hp | Cayzle d20+6=11 ;
Monday August 17th, 2020 7:13:07 AM

Zeoll draws on his bardic lore and love of the wild to study the tree from the edge of the clearing.

Know Nature 11

He sticks with his friends as they edge around the clearing.

Petty-DM Cayzle - TREE FIGHT Round 1
Monday August 17th, 2020 7:26:05 AM

Honor and Elron start to work their way around the edge of the large clearing.

Asimov, cautious and perceptive, looks around carefully and keeps with them, asking about Honor's ability to detect evil. At the edge of the clearing, where the boys' trail begins, he finds a dagger dropped on the ground. It is well-oiled and honed, with a worn and polished wooden handle.

Zeoll learns little besides the obvious: This oak tree has a trunk 30 feet in diameter, with low, easy to climb branches that extend 35 feet from the trunk in every direction. A persistent character could eventually scale the tree’s nearly 300-foot height, gaining a commanding view of the entire forest. The liontaur wonders if someone planted and cared for it, for it to be so perfect.

But Mundhildur shows no sign of caution! She approaches, intent on hugging and kissing the tree! As she steps into the clearing, she sees a blobby, clawed, humanoidish Dretch, as described by the boys, emerging from the forest and approaching from the south west! AND there are two more fiends emerging from the forest and approaching from the south east! These two look like smooth-skinned, hairless humanoids with penetrating eyes and mottled skin! They are carrying swords!

And the Map! (Please let the images load, then scroll and zoom for a closer look! Also, assume the green (forest) squares are difficult terrain that offer concealment and partial cover)

Honor Bright (Kathy) d20+7=27 ; d20+7=13 ; d8=3 ; d8=4 ;
Monday August 17th, 2020 2:15:11 PM
Honor moves toward the demons, drawing Virtue as she goes. [Move to V-35]

"Fiend!" she cries. "Trouble this place no more with your foulness!", because that's how she talks when she gets all smite-y.

She chooses #2 as her smite target and strikes it with a solid blow. [Hit AC 27, critical threat. Confirmed to AC 13. Damage is...really contingent on a lot of things. Okay. Base damage is 7 with the smite. Add 2 if the target is an outsider with the evil subtype. Add 8 if it's a critical hit. Add 2 more to the critical hit if the target is an outsider with the evil subtype. Smite bypasses DR. Okay I'm done.]

SteveM - Elron | AC 21, HP 10
Monday August 17th, 2020 8:08:41 PM
Seeing three of these things appear from just the near parts of the forest, Elron hastily decides that, "I ain't waitin' to see how many come out if we can grab some moss before they do!"

Double-move to U-26, trying not to come in reach of the foul things near his starting point.

Asimov | Hugh | AC 17/14/15 HP 12/12 d20+2=12 ; d8=5 ;
Monday August 17th, 2020 11:43:35 PM
When Asimov encountered the dagger he picked it up.

Asimov moves 20 feet through Zeoll's squares to R41 gaining concealment and partial cover.

He then fires off a bolt from his light crossbow at the Dretch as there is no paladin friend in the way to potentially spoil his aim (12 vs AC; 5 damage if that hits)

Active Effects:
Forest Square:
Partial Cover: +2 to AC and a +1 bonus on Reflex saving throws.
Concealment: 20% miss chance
Device Prepared:
0: compass, freeze ray, lesser temporary health improvement capsules
1st medihaler light, medihaler light - x

Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant (Kim) AC 18 Touch 13 FF13 HP 10/11 d20+3=5 ; d20+2=19 ;
Tuesday August 18th, 2020 4:19:39 AM

Mundhildur continues heading the direction she had been heading, but under the circumstances chooses to forego hugging and kissing of the tree. Rather, she begins to ascend the well-spaced branches, keeping her feet close to the trunk where branch strength is greatest, and never having less than two limbs in contact with the branches. Her move is from R31 to R25, then upwards by about five feet. However, her grasp was not adequate, and she falls five feet. Making a dexterity check to see if the five foot fall left her prone or standing - a 19 seems to indicate she landed on her feet.

[Question: Does she get a +8 bonus on climb? For Jotun Paragons climb is a class skill... because if the bonus accrues, then her climb roll was a 13, and she simply made no progress, but did not fall - this may be one of the first times I've had a character use this skill in Pathfinder]

Zeoll the Greensinger | AC16, 10hp | Cayzle
Tuesday August 18th, 2020 7:18:48 AM

Zeoll begins to sing an encouraging song. [Inspire Courage, +1 to attacks and damage]

He moves up some, to R-S-36-37, so that he is positioned to move to one side of the battle or the other next round.

Petty-DM Cayzle - TREE FIGHT Round 2 d20+1=7 ; d20+1=8 ;
Tuesday August 18th, 2020 7:35:48 AM

Mundhildur and Elron sprint for the tree! Mundhi even tries to climb up, but does not succeed.

[OOC: You need an actual Climb Speed to get the standard +8 racial bonus to climb. It is not enough to just have it as a class skill.]

Honor swings at Demon 2 and hits it solidly -- or would have, except that her weapon passes right through the monster as if it were not there! Is it a ghost?

Asimov's bolt passes through in the same way, right on through!

Zeoll sings an encouraging combat tune.

THE ENEMY:

The Dretch takes a double move to get to Mundhi! It clearly plans to attack next round. The other two demons step up and swing at Honor. Two misses!

Asimov and Honor, please make Will saving throws vs DC13.

And the Map! (Please let the images load, then scroll and zoom for a closer look! Also, assume the green (forest) squares are difficult terrain that offer concealment and partial cover)

Honor Bright (Kathy) d20+3=11 ;
Tuesday August 18th, 2020 1:29:51 PM
That....was not what Honor had been expecting.

[Will Save 11]

Are these demons even here? Are they really demons?

Honor pauses a moment and uses her Detect Evil ability, focusing on #2.

SteveM - Elron | AC 21, HP 10 d20+10=25 ;
Tuesday August 18th, 2020 7:38:06 PM
Elron proceeds around the tree to about S-19 (double move), and looks for moss on the north side (perception = 25).

Hopefully it's not too high.

Asimov | Hugh | AC 17/14/15 HP 12/12 d20+1=11 ; d20-2=-1 ;
Tuesday August 18th, 2020 10:39:48 PM
(Will Save: 11)

Asimov reloads the crossbow, shakes his head and fire another bolt at #1 (Natural 1 = miss)

Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant (Kim) AC 18 Touch 13 FF13 HP 10/11 d20+3=22 ; d20+3=11 ; d8+3=9 ;
Wednesday August 19th, 2020 12:59:27 AM

So, there is the dretch-thing. Taking a 5 foot step back to S13, Mundhildur stabs at the detestable thing. AC 22, damage 9.

Zeoll the Greensinger | AC16, 10hp | Cayzle d20+2=8 ;
Wednesday August 19th, 2020 9:52:24 AM

Zeoll charges forward 15 ft to U-V-36-37 and claws at demon 1. The liontaur hits AC8, a miss, even with the charge and inspire courage bonuses.

He continues to sing. [OOC: +1 inspire bonus to att and dam continues.]

Petty-DM Cayzle - TREE FIGHT Round 3 d20+1=5 ; d20+1=9 ; d20+1=13 ;
Wednesday August 19th, 2020 4:41:06 PM

Honor does not detect any evil from the odorless, silent demons.

Elron ignores the ruckus and looks for moss. He finds three kinds on the north side of the tree. One is soft and brown, one feels a little damp and is orange, one looks quite firm and hard, and is green.

Asimov shakes his head, and that throws off his aim. He misses.

Mundhildur stabs, and her weapon too goes right through the quiet quiet demon. Like it were a ghost maybe?

Zeoll charges, takes a swipe, and misses.

The demons make very scary faces and try their best to hit you, but they all miss, all three of them. Maybe you all should run away while you are still lucky not to be injured?

All but Elron, please make a DC13 Will save.

And the Map! (Please let the images load, then scroll and zoom for a closer look! Also, assume the green (forest) squares are difficult terrain that offer concealment and partial cover)

Honor Bright (Kathy) d20+3=18 ;
Wednesday August 19th, 2020 8:00:31 PM
[Will save 18]

"Whatever these things are, they're not evil," Honor says. She sounds disappointed. "I think somebody's playing silly games."

She reaches out to try to touch #2, directly ahead of her. She just wants to touch it with her hand to see if it is there. This action will provoke an AoO.

SteveM - Elron | AC 21, HP 10
Wednesday August 19th, 2020 8:43:12 PM
"We got us a problem here! There's three mosses might be what we want. I need, I say, I need one of th'eggheads to pick the right one." Elron doesn't wait, of course. Unless there's some special way to harvest the stuff that no one told him about, he'll take some (but not more than half) of each type. Starting with the firm green one.

Asimov | Hugh | AC 17/14/15 HP 12/12 d20+1=19 ;
Thursday August 20th, 2020 2:02:31 AM
(Will : 19 = success)

Asimov holds off on anymore attacks with the crossbow and moves to R29 with a double move since Elron is calling for help.

"I'm coming Elron"

Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant (Kim) AC 18 Touch 13 FF13 HP 10/11 d20+2=13 ;
Thursday August 20th, 2020 4:04:32 AM

Mundhildur turns to the tree, and does as she had planned to do earlier. "We need your help, oh Elder Tree. That is, a young sweet girl needs your help." She finds the smoothest part of the trunk near her face, and plants a kiss. She thinks the 'demon' is fake. Did not her excellent attack go right through it, and did she not hear it make a single sound? "Send away these ghostly images. They are but phantoms. And let us help the poor little girl!"
=========
Wisdom save: 13/13 - save made

Zeoll the Greensinger | AC16, 10hp | Cayzle d20+3=16 ; d20=13 ; d20=6 ; d4+1=5 ;
Thursday August 20th, 2020 9:54:13 AM
(Will Save 16)

Zeoll continues his attack, swiping twice with his paws. He hits once, if a hit on AC13 succeeds. Max damage - 5.

He keeps singing.

Petty-DM Cayzle - TREE FIGHT Round 4
Thursday August 20th, 2020 12:46:14 PM

Zeoll and Honor touch the demons, but they are not there.

Asimov runs toward Elron.

Elron takes a blade to the moss growing on the Elder Tree. (Or maybe rips it with bare hands?)

Mundhi plants a kiss on the Elder Tree.

It is clear to everyone now except Elron that the "demons" are illusions. But even his lack of disbelief becomes moot when the illusions vanish.

You see a goblin laughing across the clearing, at G22. You *hear* the laughter coming from that general direction, too.

Elron, when you cut the first moss, you hear a soft cry of pure agony! Do you continue?

Everybody please make a DC12 Will save.

And the Map!

Honor Bright (Kathy) d20+3=8 ;
Thursday August 20th, 2020 3:04:43 PM
[Will save 8]

"Hello!" Honor strides across the clearing toward the goblin. [Double-move to P-28] "I have to say, that wasn't very nice. Why would you do a thing like that?"

SteveM - Elron | AC 21, HP 10 d20+6=8 ;
Thursday August 20th, 2020 7:51:56 PM
(will save = 8)

When he hears the cry from the moss (or tree), Elron stops trying to take it. Maybe if he were sure he had the right one he'd take it, but it's best to know what's going on first. He'll wait until Asimov has a chance figure it out.

He looks over and spies the goblin, wondering what's so funny.

Asimov | Hugh | AC 17/14/15 HP 12/12 d20+1=17 ; d20+5=16 ; d20+4=24 ;
Thursday August 20th, 2020 11:34:06 PM
(Will Save : 17)

Asimov moves to R26. He asks Elron, "What seems to be the problem?"

(Perception: 16)
(Int: 24 )

Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant (Kim) AC 18 Touch 13 FF13 HP 10/11 d20+2=4 ;
Friday August 21st, 2020 4:23:55 AM

Following the kiss, Mundhildur moves around the tree to the other side to see what is happening there. She gets to about U21. She hears laughter, but it seems to be on the other side of the tree.
==========
Will (lack of) save: 4

Zeoll the Greensinger | AC16, 10hp | Cayzle d20+3=9 ;
Friday August 21st, 2020 8:03:33 PM

(Will save 9)

Zeoll's ears prick up, the demons disappear, and the true malfeasor makes an appearance. The swift liontaur dashes over, running across the meadow at 4x speed. Move -> G-H-23-24.

The bard also keeps on singing as he runs!

"Hey you! What's all this about, then!?"

Petty-DM Cayzle - TREE FIGHT Round 5 d20+7=15 ; d20+7=18 ;
Friday August 21st, 2020 9:18:03 PM

Honor strides across the meadow, maybe annoyed at having wasted her smite? She challenges the goblin.

Zeoll runs past her, four legs churning.

Elron waits for Asimov's help and keeps his eyes open. What's up with that goblin?!

[OOC to Asimov: I presume you want to move to Elron. He is the PC on the north side of the tree. It is Mundhi on the south side. I gave you a double move to get to Elron. Hope that's ok.]

Asimov hustles around the tree towards Elron. He sees the beastkin looking at three different kinds of moss growing on the tree: One is soft and brown, one feels a little damp and is orange, one looks quite firm, hard, and green. Elron is holding a knife and considering the moss.

Mundhi also heads toward the moss, and sees much the same thing.

Over by Zeoll and Honor, with one hand, the goblin puts a finger to his lips in a "shhh" gesture. With the other hand, he makes a rude gesture. He then uses a withdraw action to slip away into the woods.

Two creatures drop from the branches above, down among Mundhi and Asimov. (Elron is 10 ft away). They are small humanoids.

Perception 10: Highlight to display spoiler: {They land as silently as cats, in fact, they are hovering noiselessly an inch off the ground.}

The one at U20 tries to swipe with claws at Mundhi, dodging around and making fancy combat moves. The one at V21 does the same toward Asimov. Please make sense motive checks, you two!

The miss as their claws swish through thin air. They make rude gestures.

If you attack these creatures, please roll your attacks and damage twice.

And the Map!

SteveM - Elron | AC 21, HP 10 d20+10=22 ; d20=9 ; d20=3 ; d20=16 ; d20=3 ; d4=2 ; d4=1 ;
Friday August 21st, 2020 10:25:34 PM
(Perception = 22)

"Which one do I --" Elron starts, but he doesn't finish the sentence.

Elron is a simple sort. He basically needs something to whap and something to whap it with -- and he always carries his stick for whappin'. So when a floating creature drops down to attack his friends, he's ready. Best of all, these aren't demons (as far as he knows) so he might have a chance to hit them. Elron takes a step and attacks.

5' step, Flurry of blows:
1st attack -- 9 and 3 to hit
2nd attack -- 16 and 3 to hit, 2 and 1 damage

Honor Bright (Kathy)
Friday August 21st, 2020 11:19:51 PM
The mischievous goblin is too fast for Honor to catch it. She instead begins moving around the tree to help her companions. [Double-move to V-24]

Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant (Kim) AC 18 Touch 13 FF13 HP 10/11 d20+3=23 ;
Sunday August 23rd, 2020 5:07:10 AM

She tries to figure out what these new aggressors are up to [Sense Motive 25 (was supposed to be +5, not +3)]. "Scat! We're not trying to hurt the Elder Tree. We respect it. But we have a young girl who needs some moss for medicine. Can you help us? Does the Tree need our help? Can we do something in trade?"

Asimov | Hugh | AC 15/12/13 HP 12/12 d20+5=11 ; d20+1=5 ; d20-2=18 ; d20-2=2 ; d3=2 ;
Sunday August 23rd, 2020 9:42:48 PM
(Perception: 11; Sense Motive: 5)

Asimov takes a 5 foot step back to W19, stows the crossbow with a move action, swiftly draws his freeze ray and fires off a round at at V21 (18; natural 20; 2 cold damage ) and (2 presuming a miss )

Zeoll the Greensinger | AC16, 10hp | Cayzle
Monday August 24th, 2020 5:05:31 PM

Zeoll chases the goblin and takes a double move to D-C-19-20 as a double move. He keeps on singing.

YOU FOLKS IN COMBAT, PLEASE REMEMBER TO ADD +1 TO ATTACKS AND DAMAGE!

Petty-DM Cayzle - TREE FIGHT Round 6 d100=83 ; d20+4=7 ; d20+4=21 ; d20+4=10 ; d20+4=5 ; d4-1=1 ;
Monday August 24th, 2020 5:32:24 PM

Note for convenience: These two small enemies near the tree are identical except one has green embroidery on his jacket and one has purple embroidery. We'll refer to them as Green Guy and Purple Guy.

Elron steps up and takes two swings -- and even though one of those SHOULD have hit, in fact both miss!! What is happening?

Mundhildur tries diplomacy, but these guys are not talking. As they float above the ground, they do not say a word.

Asimov steps back and fires off a freeze ray at the Purple Guy. It hits the shocked creature, inflicting 2 cold damage, but let's add Zeoll's +1 for a total 3 damage.

Honor hustles over to the tree fight.

Zeoll chases the goblin and reminds the party to be inspired by his singing.

The Green Guy and the Purple Guy both take five ft steps toward Asimov and claw at him, twice each. The Purple Guy has some kind of advantage, that is, he slips inside Asimov's guard a bit. The Green Guy misses twice; the Purple Guy draws blood with a claw, inflicting 1 damage to Asimov.

The goblin retreats further from Zeoll, smiling.

Please continue to roll TWO attacks and TWO damages with every swing, even if you think you miss!

GOBLIN - Undamaged
PURPLE GUY - 3 damage
GREEN GUY - Undamaged

And the Map!

Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant (Kim) AC 18 Touch 13 FF13 HP 10/11
Monday August 24th, 2020 5:41:01 PM

"It's the laughing man," Mundhildur announces. "Let's get him." She follows her own counsel, and hustles (I think she can get to J12).

Asimov | Hugh | AC 15/12/13 HP 11/12 d20+2=15 ; d4+2=6 ; d20+2=3 ; d4+2=4 ;
Monday August 24th, 2020 10:26:16 PM
Asimov takes a 5 foot step to V20, swiftly stows the freeze ray, draws his dagger with a move action and stabs at the purple guy again.

(15 vs AC; 6 damage)
(3 Vs AC; 4 damage if that hits)

Honor Bright (Kathy) d20+5=9 ; d20+5=14 ; d8+4=7 ; d8+4=6 ;
Monday August 24th, 2020 10:53:55 PM
Honor steps up to the goblins and swings at the closest one, whose tunic boasts purple embroidery. She is rushing, however, and her aim is not good.

[Move to X-21. Attack rolls are 9 and 14; damage rolls are 7 and 6.]

SteveM - Elron | AC 21, HP 10 d20=14 ; d20=1 ; d20=12 ; d20=5 ;
Tuesday August 25th, 2020 8:54:40 AM
Elron's not giving up yet.

5' step, Flurry of blows attacking green guy:
1st attack -- 14 and 1 to hit
2nd attack -- 12 and 5 to hit

Zeoll the Greensinger | AC16, 10hp | Cayzle
Tuesday August 25th, 2020 11:08:47 AM

Tired of this nonsense, Zeoll keeps on chasing and singing. Double move to 12-13-D-E.

Petty-DM Cayzle - TREE FIGHT Round 7 d20+6=11 ; d20+6=11 ; d20+6=17 ; d20+6=13 ; d4-1=1 ;
Tuesday August 25th, 2020 7:45:23 PM

Mundhildur hustles toward the goblin. Note: It clearly looks like a goblin. The other two small humanoids do NOT look like goblins! Also, counting odd diagonals as 5 and even diagonals as 10, I have Mundhi arriving in L14 after a 60 ft move.

Asimov takes a step and resorts to his dagger and manages to prick the Purple Guy, inflicting just one point of damage.

Honor moves forward to swing and miss!

Elron steps up, swings, and thinks he should have hit, but the swing flies wild -- if a friend had been standing next to him, he might have hit his friend! It's like these guys are out of phase with reality.

The singing Zeoll chases after the goblin.

The Goblin grins and continues to withdraw and run away!

Purple Guy takes a five ft step to flank Asimov. He claws at the technologist, hitting AC11 twice, two misses.

Green guy also targets Asimov, with two flanking claws: AC17 and AC13 -- one hit for one point of damage to Asimov

Please continue to roll TWO attacks and TWO damages with every swing, even if you think you miss!

GOBLIN - Undamaged
PURPLE GUY - 4 damage
GREEN GUY - Undamaged

And the Map!

Honor Bright (Kathy) d20+5=12 ; d20+5=20 ; d8=6 ; d8=1 ;
Tuesday August 25th, 2020 9:23:45 PM
Honor steps up again, swings at Purple again, and likely misses again.

[Step to V-20. Hit AC 12 and AC 20, for 10 and 5 damage.]

SteveM - Elron | AC 21, HP 10 d20=16 ; d20=18 ; d20=7 ; d20=18 ; d4=1 ; d4=2 ; d4=1 ; d4=3 ;
Tuesday August 25th, 2020 10:40:35 PM
"This boy’s harder to hit than a feather in a whirlwind."

Flurry of blows attacking green guy again:
1st attack -- 16 and 18 to hit, 1 and 2 damage
2nd attack -- 7 and 18 to hit, 1 and 3 damage

Asimov | Hugh | AC 15/12/13 HP 10/12 d20+2=5 ; d4+2=3 ; d20+2=5 ; d4+2=5 ;
Tuesday August 25th, 2020 11:28:19 PM
Asimov takes a 5 foot step diagonally to T21 getting out of flank.

He continues to attack the purple guy (5 vs AC; 3 damage if that hits) (5 vs AC; 5 damage if that hits)

Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant (Kim) AC 18 Touch 13 FF13 HP 10/11 d20+3=9 ;
Wednesday August 26th, 2020 1:03:55 AM

Mundhildur double move through K11 to G7.
==========
Perception: 9

Zeoll the Greensinger | AC16, 10hp | Cayzle
Wednesday August 26th, 2020 10:00:05 PM

Zeoll, moving at half speed through the underbrush, chases the goblin to B-C-8-9 while still singing.

Petty-DM Cayzle - TREE FIGHT Round 8 d20+6=26 ; d20+6=14 ; d20+6=19 ; d20+6=13 ; d20+6=17 ; d4-1=0 ;
Wednesday August 26th, 2020 11:43:26 PM

Honor swings at the Purple Guy, who ducks! Honor misses him and instead her sword connects with Asimov!

Asimov, please take 5 hp damage from Honor's blade! Asimov is down to 5!

Elron swings an unarmed strike at the Green Guy, and surely would have missed -- but somehow the fellow phases out at the exact moment that leaves Elron following through with a blow aimed at Asimov! That one lands hard.

Asimov, please take 3 hp damage from Elron's stray fist! Asimov is down to 2!

Elron's flurry of blows offers another chance to hit, but this one flat out misses -- and instead whomps Asimov in the head! That's all she wrote for the arcane mechanic!

Asimov, please take 4 hp damage from another of Elron's monkish blows! Asimov is down to -2! And DYING! Poor fellow is now prone and needs to roll for stabilization! What is going on? We're killing ourselves!

Last round, Mundhildur only made it to L14. This round she chases after the goblin, with her speed falling by half in the underbrush. This round, her efforts get her to H9.

Zeoll too chases that darn goblin!

The goblin responds with another withdraw and retreat.

The two small fellows take noiseless five ft steps to flank Elron!

They swipe with claws! They hit ACs 26, 19, 13, and 17. Only one of those hits Elron, for 1 hit point of nonlethal damage!

Please continue to roll TWO attacks and TWO damages with every swing, even if you think you miss!

Do not break Old Zeoll's heart and forget the +1 on attacks and damage

GOBLIN - Undamaged
PURPLE GUY - 4 damage
GREEN GUY - Undamaged

And the Map!

Honor Bright (Kathy) d20+7=21 ;
Thursday August 27th, 2020 12:02:17 AM
Honor drops Virtue, pulls out her healer's kit, and attempts to stabilize Asimov.

[Heal check 21]

"This isn't working!" she calls. "We should just get the moss and get out of here!"

Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant (Kim) AC 18 Touch 13 FF13 HP 10/11 d20+3=15 ;
Thursday August 27th, 2020 1:50:03 PM

The tall woman hears the admonition of Honor Bright. "Zeoll, Honor is right. Let's get the moss and go." She turns about and works her way back to the tree.

=========
Perception: 15
DM Cayzle: Please move Mundhildur as far as she can double move towards the tree.

SteveM - Elron | AC 21, HP 10 d20+1=16 ; d20+1=15 ; d20+1=5 ; d20+1=8 ; d4+1=3 ; d4+1=4 ; d4+1=4 ; d4+1=4 ;
Thursday August 27th, 2020 7:57:35 PM
"Which moss? There's three kinds!" Elron yells. He's frustrated, but not willing to give up on pummelling the green guy. He does, however, take a 5' step to V18 first, so he's not close enough to hit his friends, and gives non-lethal damage just in case.

Flurry of blows attacking green guy again:
1st attack -- 16 and 15 to hit, 3 and 4 damage
2nd attack -- 5 and 8 to hit, 4 and 4 damage

1 hp non-lethal damage received

Zeoll the Greensinger | AC16, 10hp | Cayzle
Thursday August 27th, 2020 11:38:31 PM

Zeoll is intent on chasing this guy down! Singing, he follows after.

"Aha! I've trapped you against the corner of the map!" he declares!

Moves to C-D-2-3.

Petty-DM Cayzle - TREE FIGHT Round 9 d20+4=13 ; d20+4=11 ; d20+4=22 ; d20+4=21 ; d4-1=3 ; d4-1=1 ; d20+4=12 ; d20+4=7 ;
Thursday August 27th, 2020 11:52:42 PM

[OOC: No post from the unconscious Asimov, alas. We'll proceed, seeing as it is almost midnight.]

Honor stops fighting to care for her friend. Asimov is stable.

Mundhi gives up on the goblin and runs back. She gets to P-11 with a hustle. That's close enough to attack next round if she charges to make one charge attack.

Elron cleverly realizes that to fight these things he can't be in range of friends! He steps back and attacks. He feels SURE he should have hit, but his blow phases through the creature. [OOC: It is fair at this point to deduce that the enemy has damage reduction 5. I'm not sure, short of a critical, that Elron can do damage to them.]

Zeoll, indefatiguable, chases that goblin, "cornering" it.

The Goblin blinks out, going invisible without a sound.

The Green Guy attacks Elron, one on one! Two claws miss!

The Purple Guy attacks Honor, lucking out with a 22 and a 21! Honor takes 3 and 1 (total 4) damage.

The Blue Guy drops to attack Honor! Wait, what Blue Guy?! He dropped down out of the branches above Honor! Two misses!

Honor please put your AC and HP in your header!

Do not break Old Zeoll's heart and forget the +1 on attacks and damage

BLUE GUY - Undamaged
PURPLE GUY - 4 damage
GREEN GUY - Undamaged

And the Map!

Asimov | Hugh | AC 15/12/13 HP -2/12
Thursday August 27th, 2020 11:55:45 PM
Asimov is unconscious and can't do anything. He couldn't do anything last round either

Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant (Kim) AC 18 Touch 13 FF13 HP 10/11 d20+3=10 ;
Friday August 28th, 2020 4:52:51 AM

Mundhildur rushes forward, and uses the edge of her longspear to slice off the red, green and yellow moss. She had wanted to be more careful, more gentle.

Was her attempt even useful? Hit AC 10. Let's see how it went.

SteveM - Elron | AC 21, HP 10 d20-4=8 ; d20-4=5 ; d20-4=5 ; d20-4=7 ; d4+1=2 ; d4+1=4 ; d4+1=2 ; d4+1=5 ;
Friday August 28th, 2020 10:13:33 AM
Realizing he can't hurt this creature and taking in the situation, Elron's first worry is that Honor is next to Asimov. "Miss Hona', move away from th'egghead. They can redirect your attacks.""

Elron moves to the other side of the green goon (U17) and fights defensively to keep its attention (AC 23).

Flurry of blows attacking green guy again:
1st attack -- 10 and 7 to hit, 2 and 4 damage
2nd attack -- 7 and 9 to hit, 2 and 5 damage
(Forgot +1 each for size and singing on the attack rolls, so the penalty on the roll should have been -2; included singing on the damage)

Honor Bright [AC 19; HP 8/12] (Kathy)
Friday August 28th, 2020 1:04:26 PM
Honor snatches Virtue out of the tall grass and stands up. If she has an action left (she was kneeling; I don't know if standing from kneeling is a move action or not), she uses total defense, making her AC temporarily 23.

Zeoll the Greensinger | AC16, 10hp | Cayzle
Saturday August 29th, 2020 9:10:43 PM

Zeoll sniffs to see if he smells where the goblin went. If he can smell anything, he follows the trail. If not, he heads back to the tree. Still singing.

Petty-DM Cayzle - TREE FIGHT Round 10
Saturday August 29th, 2020 9:19:39 PM

Asimov is unconscious but stable.

Mundhi wants to get back to the tree! The DM gives her a run to 20-T. SHe can cut off some moss next time.

Elron steps farther away from his friends and fights defensively. He misses, but his misses at least cannot harm his friends!

Honor grabs her weapon and uses total defense.

Zeoll's scent suggests there never even WAS a goblin there! The taur heads back through the underbrush.

CONTINUED ...

Petty-DM Cayzle - TREE FIGHT Round 10 d20+6=23 ; d20+6=13 ; d4-1=0 ; d20+6=7 ; d20+4=15 ; d20+4=14 ;
Saturday August 29th, 2020 9:33:56 PM
[Started on one machine, finished on the other ...]

The Green Guy says to Elron, in common, "You're no fun, Buck buck BAWK!!" He moves from Elron to Honor, provoking attacks of opportunity from both, and ending his move action flanking Honor. He shouts something in a strange language (email me if you speak Aklo!) He attacks Honor, flanking -- One claw, hits AC23, and Honor takes 1 point of nonlethal damage (please track seperately from lethal damage).

The Purple Guy, now also flanking, attacks Honor, misses twice.

The Blue Guy, not flanking, swipes twice at Honor, and misses!

Do not break Old Zeoll's heart and forget the +1 on attacks and damage

BLUE GUY - Undamaged
PURPLE GUY - 4 damage
GREEN GUY - Undamaged

And the Map!

Honor Bright [AC 19; HP 7/12] [1 nonlethal] (Kathy)
Saturday August 29th, 2020 11:19:56 PM
Honor doesn't dare swing; she'll likely cut Asmimov's head off. She doesn't dare leave him, either; he is unconscious and helpless. She stays where she is, and remains on total defense. [AC 23]

"Hurry with that moss!" she calls.

Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant (Kim) AC 18 Touch 13 FF13 HP 10/11 d20+4=15 ;
Sunday August 30th, 2020 12:24:52 AM

"Tree, this is to help save the life of a little girl. I don't want to hurt you. May I have some moss?"

She touches the red, the yellow, the green moss with the little finger of her left hand, just brushing lightly along it. "For the sweet one." She carefully eyes the moss, sees what it looks like, observes how it is attached to the bark. She looks at the bark and tries to judge how hard it is, how coherent it may be. Does it look solid, firm? Layered? Mundhildur is proficient in the crafting of wood (Craft wood 15). She does not come to this task totally untutored.

She tries to determine whether she might pull it off, or whether the sharp edge of her spear would do a better job. Her right hand holds the spear near the bark, aligned so that she might cut a firm path to extract the three colors of moss... next round.

[Cayzle - I thought I hit 'roll' on 1d20+4, and the confirm post window popped up. So I clicked to go back, and did not see a roll. So I completed the roll.]

Asimov | Hugh | AC 15/12/13 HP -2/12
Sunday August 30th, 2020 8:43:29 PM
Asimov is still unconscious

SteveM - Elron | AC 21, HP 10 d20=15
Sunday August 30th, 2020 11:06:16 PM
Elron tells no one in particular, "Green, I say, green boy's about as sharp as a mouse in a wet sack." as the green guy turns to Honor. He can see that Munhildur has the moss-gathering in hand, which means the best thing for Elron to do is get Asimov away so Honor can defend herself. Well, the boy's skinny enough, and Elron doesn't have to lift him, just drag him. . .

Elron moves to V19 and grabs Asimov, then drags him just out of the reach of Honor's sword. Weighing in at only 35 pounds, Elron can lift and carry up to 75 pounds as a heavy load. If he can manage to drag 160 pounds at least 5', Honor should be good to go. Heck, she can even follow them if she keeps her body between them and the goons.

Egads! Fifty pounds of gear? Well, here's a d20 roll just for the fun of it. Call it a strength check. . . 15.

Zeoll the Greensinger | AC16, 10hp | Cayzle
Monday August 31st, 2020 11:52:31 PM

Zeoll steps out of the woods and cast Lullaby on the melee. Honor and the three miscreants, please make DC14 Will saves or take a -5 penalty on Perception checks and a –2 penalty on Will saves against sleep effects.

Petty-DM Cayzle - TREE FIGHT Round 11 d20+6=16 ; d20+6=11 ; d20+6=25 ; d20+6=8 ; d20+4=21 ; d20+4=20 ; d4-1=1 ; d20+4=8 ; d20+4=13 ; d20+4=9 ;
Monday August 31st, 2020 11:57:59 PM

Honor takes on total defense as she distracts the enemies.

Elron grabs Asimov and drags him out of harm's way.

Mundhi gathers moss. One more round will do it.

Still singing, Zeoll steps out of the woods and casts a spell. All three enemies fail, and yawn, but so what?

The three small guys focus on Honor with full attacks Two are flanking. Of the six claw attacks, one hits for 1 hp damage to Honor.

Do not break Old Zeoll's heart and forget the +1 on attacks and damage

BLUE GUY - Undamaged
PURPLE GUY - 4 damage
GREEN GUY - Undamaged

And the Map!

SteveM - Elron | AC 21, HP 10 ! 1 nonlethal dmg
Tuesday September 1st, 2020 12:05:11 AM
Elron watches Honor and the goons, prepared to drag the big lump further away if the battle moves closer and it's necessary to keep him safe. Sadly, he's headed in the direction opposite of the way they came in.

Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant (Kim) AC 18 Touch 13 FF13 HP 10/11 d20+5=6 ;
Tuesday September 1st, 2020 2:42:09 AM

Now that she has somewhat keyed in to the quality of the bark, and the texture of the moss, the relatively young Jotun moves with deliberation, using both hands to carefully guide the blade, and slices off some green, some yellow, and some red moss, in that order.

Well, that was her intention. However, the blade turns just as she begins, and makes a light slice in her thumb. A small drop of blood drips down upon the trunk a few inches below her blade.

"Ay!" she says in surprise.
==========
Rolled d20+2+1 from Zeoll's inspiration, and +2 from craft wood. But she just got a little ahead of herself, and rolled a natural 1. Maybe next time.

Asimov | Hugh | AC 15/12/13 HP -2/12
Tuesday September 1st, 2020 8:03:38 AM
Asimov is unconscious and being dragged

Honor Bright [AC 19; HP 6/12] [1 nonlethal] (Kathy) d20+5=20 ; d8+4=8 ;
Tuesday September 1st, 2020 2:21:07 PM
Honor steps out of flank [5-foot step to V-22]. She takes another swing at Purple Guy. [Hit AC 20 for 8 damage]

Zeoll the Greensinger | AC15, 10hp | Cayzle d100=16 ;
Tuesday September 1st, 2020 10:03:47 PM

Oh lordie! I always forget that darn 5% arcane spell fail chance. Let's see if it matters last round: Nope.

Zeoll smiles to see Honor back up a step. then he frowns when he realizes she stepped in the wrong direction. She did not even do the old taur the courtesy of saving vs his Lullaby spell! It's like she's not even paying attention! Well, at least she remembered to add in the Inspire Courage bonuses.

But as he focuses on the battlefield, he faces a conundrum. Where to center his Sleep spell? The trick is to put the enemy, but not Honor, into the 10 ft radius burst.

Then he smiles again as he sees Purple Guy take some damage.

Zeoll uses a move action to doff his shield. AC reduced to 15.

He casts Sleep with the standard action. He centers it to get only the green and blue unwounded enemies. The spell affects up to 4 HD, Zeoll hopes these guys only 1 or 2 HD each. The save DC is DC17 since they both failed vs lullaby.

Honor Bright [AC 19; HP 6/12] [1 nonlethal] (Kathy) d20+3=12 ;
Wednesday September 2nd, 2020 12:03:00 AM
[Will Save 12, fail. Honor is now even worse at Perception than she was to start with, which was already pretty bad.]

Petty-DM Cayzle - TREE FIGHT Round 12 d20+4=7 ; d20+4=23 ; d20+4=7 ;
Wednesday September 2nd, 2020 12:35:59 AM

Elron readies a drag action in case the fight comes his way. Alas, for poor unconscious Asimov this whole battle is a real drag.

Mundhildur gathers more moss. She has a decent selection now of all three varieties.

With Elron guarding Asimov, Honor goes on offense, hitting the wounded purple guy for 8, of which 3 hp damage gets through. "Ouchie, ya daft cow!" shouts the Purple Guy. That may be the first words in common you have heard from them. He seems scared, for the first time in the fight.

Zeoll sings to keep his bard stuff going -- how long can he keep this up? Then he switches to a spell, and casts Sleep on the two unwounded enemies.

The two are rolling at +4 to hit a 17 ... a 7 and a 23! One falls asleep, one remains awake.

The wounded Purple Guy shouts something in his odd native tongue, and uses the withdraw action. He levitates up into the air, gaining cover and concealment among the branches and foliage.

The awake Blue Guy uses his action to wake up his friend, the Green Guy. The green guy wakes up and stands up. That provokes an AoO that Honor can take. Angry, he swipes with a claw at Honor. He misses.

Do not break Old Zeoll's heart and forget the +1 on attacks and damage

AC13, DR5:
BLUE GUY - Undamaged
PURPLE GUY - 7 damage, 20 ft up in tree, cover, concealment
GREEN GUY - Undamaged

And the Map!

Asimov | Hugh | AC 15/12/13 HP -2/12
Wednesday September 2nd, 2020 12:41:54 AM
Asimov is unconscious and being guarded by the Chicken man.

Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant (Kim) AC 18 Touch 13 FF13 HP 10/11
Wednesday September 2nd, 2020 2:40:20 AM

Ah, so Mundhildur did manage to acquire some moss. She places it carefully in a bag, and says, "I think we have what we came for. If you'll stop pestering us, flighty creatures, we will be on our way. Thank you, Elder Tree."

She offers to carry Asimov for a suitable distance away from the tree - several hundred yards, after which if others can minister to him further, she gently sets him down.

Honor Bright [AC 19; HP 6/12] [1 nonlethal] (Kathy) d20+5=18 ; d8=2 ;
Wednesday September 2nd, 2020 3:56:35 PM
[Honor's attack of opportunity hits AC 18 for 6 damage. Except...she shouldn't have gotten an AoO because green guy is in X-21 and Honor had stepped to V-22. But, assuming green guy stepped to W-21 after getting up, he could still have attacked Honor, and Honor can now attack him back. So let's use those rolls for her normal attack, shall we?]

"Come down here and call me 'cow,' coward!" Honor shouts at purple guy. For her part, she considers her 5-foot step to have been an excellent move. First, it got her out of flank, which was her priority. Second, it pulled the fight away from the unconscious Asimov. And third, it put this nice, solid tree at her back.

Honor swings her sword at green guy, hitting AC 18 for 6 damage.

SteveM - Elron | AC 21, HP 10 ! 1 nonlethal dmg
Wednesday September 2nd, 2020 8:08:34 PM
Fortunately for the goons (and the tree, and possibly Honor at this point), Elron isn't carrying anything he can use to try to set them on fire or entangle them with. Elron starts to admit something to himself that just doesn't make sense: fighting might not be the best option here.

Elron looks down and chuckles. Asimov has a crossbow. Why was he thinking he was out of combat options? He loads it.

Zeoll the Greensinger | AC15, 10hp | Cayzle
Wednesday September 2nd, 2020 10:03:01 PM

Zeoll has one more uncast first level spell. The lullaby ends this round. What the heck, he'll try again.

Sleep, DC17, on as many as he can get without putting friends in the area.

Then he moves 40 ft closer. DM, please just push him up 40 ft.

Also, he keeps singing. As the DM should know, or can easily tell from his PC sheet, the liontaur has 14 rounds of bardic performance per day, so he has two rounds left in him!

Petty-DM Cayzle - TREE FIGHT Round 13 d20+4=11 ; d20+4=20 ;
Wednesday September 2nd, 2020 11:00:56 PM
Your DM had googledoc access issues last night and was unable to update the map. That should not work against the PCs! So that attack WAS an AoO, Kathy, and I'll need you to make another attack for your standard action this round for Honor, please.

Honor swipes at the Green Guy as he rises from prone, hitting him for a point after the DR. She follows that up with another attack, and it ...

Elron Picks up Asimov's crossbow and loads it.

Mundhildur puts away the moss (first move action), takes a five ft step, and then picks up Asimov (second move action). Next round she seems ready to walk away from this fight.

Zeoll sings and casts again! The two are rolling again at +4 to hit a 17 ... an 11 and a 20! Again, one falls asleep, one remains awake.

The wounded Purple Guy calls down to his pals in his odd native tongue, and uses total defense with cover and concealment up there.

Again, Blue Guy uses his action to wake up his friend, the Green Guy -- but then Blue Guy moves to the far south side of the tree, out of line of sight of the spell-happy liontaur. The green guy wakes up, uses total defense, and stands up. That provokes another AoO that Honor can take. He takes a step back. (assuming he survives an attack and an AoO from Honor!)

Do not break Old Zeoll's heart and forget the +1 on attacks and damage

AC13, DR5:
BLUE GUY - Undamaged
PURPLE GUY - 7 damage, 20 ft up in tree, cover, concealment
GREEN GUY - 1 damage

And the Map!

Honor Bright [AC 19; HP 6/12] [1 nonlethal] (Kathy) d20+5=22 ; d8=3 ; d20+5=18 ; d8=2 ;
Wednesday September 2nd, 2020 11:48:58 PM
[Previous round: Honor's attack hit AC 22 for 7 damage.]

This round: As green guy goes to stand, Honor attacks him again, this time hitting AC 18 for 6 damage.

"Had enough?" Honor asks. "I will accept your surrender, if you offer it." She steps to W-22, and also goes full defensive, bringing her AC to 23.

SteveM - Elron | AC 21, HP 10 ! 1 nonlethal dmg
Thursday September 3rd, 2020 8:22:27 PM
The heft of the crossbow and strength of the pull convinces Elron that this is something that could do some damage. He doesn't want to shoot, however, until he knows the goons can't send the bolt flying at Honor. He stands his ground beside Asimov, ready to shoot if one of the goons gets too close and relishing the coming moment when he will be able to show the green goon what for.

Asimov | Hugh | AC 15/12/13 HP -2/12
Thursday September 3rd, 2020 11:11:11 PM
Asimov despite being completely unconscious is actually contributing to combat, by not objecting to Elron borrowing his crossbow

Zeoll the Greensinger | AC15, 10hp | Cayzle
Friday September 4th, 2020 12:24:29 AM

Zeoll targets another Lullaby on the one he can see. DC14 to be affected. Heck, it doesn't know he has no more first level spell slots left!

He stops singing. Instead, the old liontaur shouts, "Come on, everrybody, let's go! We've got what we came forr."

He starts moving south.

Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant (Kim) AC 18 Touch 13 FF13 HP 10/11
Friday September 4th, 2020 12:41:43 AM
With Asimov over her shoulder, Mundhildur follows Zeoll's counsel.

Petty-DM Cayzle - TREE FIGHT OVER
Friday September 4th, 2020 12:46:52 AM

Honor draws more blood, and that seems to finally douse these guys ardor for combat. They shout at you all as they withdraw and levitate up into the tree, out of sight.

Asimov, Mundhi, and Zeoll are already moving (or being moved) south.

Honor and Elron make the rearguard.

The party heads south, out of the clearing, and the jeers and cat-calls fade away. Soon you are far enough from the glade of the Elder Tree to sit and catch your breath.

[OOC: My friends, this scene is just about done. Please all do advance to Level Two! Whew! You earned it!]

SteveM - Elron | AC 21, HP 10 ! 1 nonlethal dmg
Friday September 4th, 2020 2:59:23 PM
"Can, I say, can anybody tend to the boy here?" Elron's having a sort of existential crisis, realizing he contributed nothing to the combat, what with hitting things being a sort of hobby of his. He hangs onto the crossbow until Asimov is up and walking again, then thanks him for its use while returning it.

Honor Bright [AC 19; HP 6/12] [1 nonlethal] (Kathy)
Friday September 4th, 2020 6:23:30 PM
"I'll see what I can do," Honor says.

[OOC: So, timing is important here. Do we all just level up on our way out of the clearing? Or does it happen overnight? Because if it's right away, we all get more hit points, Honor can lay on hands, and Asimov is conscious again. Otherwise, we have to limp off and make camp somewhere.]

Asimov | Hugh | AC 15/12/13 HP 7/21
Saturday September 5th, 2020 12:31:49 AM
Asimov's eye's flutter open.

"Or I could just heal myself." The young eccentric human says. "Great Scott! I don't know what happened while I was out but I feel stronger than I was before. I also think I know things like the Aklo language and came up with the designs for a grease gun, a force shield generator and a break gun."

He takes out his last medihaler and says, "Is anyone else beat up or should I just use this? I can technically make another one on the day I think or is that tomorrow"

"What happened while I was out?" he asks

(OOC: could I prepare something in the new device slot now using normal device preparation rules (15 minutes of study) or do I have to wait till the next morning to get my new first level device slot)

(OOC2 : I leveled; click the link to see my level 2 character sheet)

Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant (Kim) AC 18 Touch 13 FF13 HP 10/11
Saturday September 5th, 2020 4:11:10 AM

Mundhildur, after laying Asimov carefully upon a mossy patch, was about to give him a gentle kiss upon the forehead, when suddenly his eyes opened and she had to pull back sharply lest he bash his forehead into her mouth.

"Well, now, aren't you the spritely one, Asimov? You go right ahead and use that same spray that helped the fox before. You got beaten down pretty badly."

She fills him in on what she was aware of that happened while he slept through the encounter.

Zeoll the Greensinger | AC15, 16hp | Cayzle d20+8=26 ;
Saturday September 5th, 2020 6:46:17 AM

Leaving the meadow, Zeoll grins and offers to carry the unconscious Asimov on his hindquarters. "Back in the day, my old bones would have prrotested such a burrden, but now that I'm young, it is no prroblem!"

[Zeoll could be described, with some charity, as middle aged.]

He helps look for a glade or glen in which the party can take a rest. Not a "short rest" or a "long rest," just a rest, thank you very much.

He asks to see the moss and to care for it. "Have no idea if the moss has to be alive forr the healing concoction, but if we deliverr it alive, we have both angles coverred."

Taking 10 on Survival to find a camp: 18
Taking 10 on Know (Nature) to care for moss: 19

Zeoll also looks around for edible berries (for casting goodberry). Rolling a survival check: 26 If he finds any, he'll cast goodberry and give them to Asimov.

[OOC: Sheet updated]

Petty-DM Cayzle - Achievement Unlocked: MOSSY d4=2 ; d4=1 ;
Saturday September 5th, 2020 7:33:03 AM

The party finds a safe glade in which to rest and even overnight. Your trials have taught you something, and the valuable life experiences you have gained will serve you well as you face the challenges ahead.

[OOC: Did not mention it yesterday, but please set your experience points to 2,000. Also ...
-- a hero point to Mundhildur for ignoring danger to gather the moss.
-- a hero point to Honor for defending a fallen friend ... and for general B**-A**ery.
-- a hero point to Asimov for putting his frail body into harm's way and making a prime target of himself.
-- a hero point to Elron for fighting on and looking for new solutions when faced with an initial lack of success.
Thanks for sticking through a hard fight!]

Asimov heals himself as Mundhi fills him in on recent events.

Honor feels that she has new abilities, ones that may be good for helping her friend?

Zeoll finds a big wild strawberry patch that the bears have not gotten to yet. He has more than enough to feed the party and cast his new goodberry spell -- several times even. After his sole casting today, Asimov may take 3 hp of berry healing

Zeoll also sprinkles the mosses with water and tends them.

The glen has an aura of peacefulness and safety, and your watches are not even necessary as you rest and meditate on recent events and what you have learned. The next day dawns, and you feel ready for fresh adventures!

Honor Bright (Kathy) d6=3 ; d6=2 ; d6=3 ; d6=6 ;
Saturday September 5th, 2020 4:24:09 PM
"We got the moss; that's the important thing," Honor tells Asimov.

"And I think maybe I passed some kind of test, because I think Pantheon has granted me the ability to heal. Let me check."

She heals Asimov for 3.
She heals Elron for 2.
She heals Mundhildur for 3.
She heals herself for 6.

"That's all for now. I can do more tomorrow if I need to." She helps make camp.

SteveM - Elron | AC 21, HP 24
Saturday September 5th, 2020 11:59:11 PM
Elron is still dissatisfied with the battle, although the group survived it. He goes tromping into the woods, hunting around, for some hours. When he comes back, he's got a big stick he's swinging with both hands because he'd unbalance himself using just one with it.

It's obvious he's feeling happier. "Did, I say, did you know that I can cut down a dead tree just by lookin' at it?" he asks the group. But he rushes the joke and gives the punch line before anyone asks for it. "It’s true. I saw it with my own eyes!" As if that's not bad enough, "Saw. . . Eyes. . . That's a joke, son." And at least one person -- Elron, himself -- finds it very amusing.

Asimov | Hugh | AC 15/12/13 HP 21/21 d8+1=8 ;
Sunday September 6th, 2020 9:24:26 PM
Asimov uses his last medihaler and between the paladin, the green singer and his own devices he is back to full health.

"I feel better." Asimov says, "So which ingredient are we after next and do you think we'll have as much trouble as we had with the moss?"

Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant (Kim) AC 17 Touch 13 FF14 HP 22/22
Monday September 7th, 2020 2:05:39 AM

Mundhildur gave Zeoll the moss when he requested it.

"I think carrying you made me stronger, Asimov. Did you have some sort of potion on you that caused that? A strange mist?"

The Jotun paragon thanks Honor for the healing. "That felt good. Thanks for watching out for us, Honor." She pitches in on camp set up, pitching a tent, rather too small for her. She reminds Elron of the perch she had made for him. Strong wooden rod on a bit of a stand, right?

Mundhildur laughs at Elron's joke. Then says seriously, "I'm no one's son, Elron. Daughter. Got that?"

In the morning, she says and asks, "So, west then north to Stokequet Marsh?"

She looks for signs of the fox, and leaves a bit of food for him at what she figures an appropriate point.

When they get back to the horses and mule, she helps in getting everything out and ready, the animals fed and hitched, and any gear that needs reloading or adjusted taken care of. She hums various tunes as she works and travels.
============
Updated header, character sheet

Zeoll the Greensinger | AC15, 16hp | Cayzle d20+9=17 ;
Monday September 7th, 2020 7:30:03 PM

If Zeoll thinks we can care for the mosses and continue on our way, that's fine. But if we have to bring the mosses back to the manor to be dropped off there, then he wants to do that.

Know Nature (regarding mosses): 17

Petty-DM Hugh - On The Road Again
Tuesday September 8th, 2020 12:11:15 AM

Honor informs Asimov that they got the moss. She then proceeds to heal the others a bit and promises to do more in the morning.

Elron is dissatisfied with the battle. He goes off into the woods for a while. When he comes back he’s got a big stick. He jokes about being able to cut down a dead tree just by looking at it as he saw it with his own eyes.

Asimov uses the last medihaler on himself. Between the berries, the paladin and his device he is good as new.

Munhildur gives Zeoll the moss. She theorizes that carrying Asimov made her stronger. The giantess thanks Honor for the healing and then helps setting up camp. She laughs at Elron’s joke and tells him she’s a daughter.

She asks to make sure she got the correct directions to Stokequet Marsh and she looks for signs of the fox, leaving some food for it.

When they get back to the horse and mule she helps by getting everything ready.

Zeoll reasons he can reasonably care for the moss while they continue on their way.

You all get a good night’s rest in the camp undisturbed. The next morning it is easy enough to break camp and get back to the animals.

Per the map your patron gave you it the swamp is North to Northwest of you and it will take you a little bit of travel to get there.

Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant (Kim) AC 17 Touch 13 FF14 HP 22/22
Tuesday September 8th, 2020 5:06:24 AM

Mundhildur helps prepare breakfast in the morning, singing a morning song. She looks for any signs of their fox friend. And she helps break camp. It seems she has picked up some clues on how better to handle the animals [picked up handle animals skill this level], and gives them what care she can.

"Well, Zeoll, is it back to the manor with the moss, or onward to find the next ingredient on the list?" She is anxious to move forward on the map toward the swamp, but will consider what he says before choosing the direction to go once back on the roadway.

Zeoll the Greensinger | AC15, 16hp | Cayzle
Tuesday September 8th, 2020 7:33:14 AM

"I think I can take good carre of these little mosses," says the druid liontaur. "So therre's no need to head back. Onwarrds to adventurre! Excelsiorr!"

If the fox does pop up, Zeoll says, "Mundhi, if you want me to pass on a message, I can use my talking with animals ability." He'll do so on request.

As the day progresses, Zeoll keeps an eye out for berries. If there are no other challenges today, he hopes to cast three goodberries this evening, and every evening on peaceful travel days. They only last for two days, so they can supplement rations just before they expire, and before adventure, maybe he'll have a bunch in hand ... 6d4 that expire "today" and 6d4 that expire "tomorrow." We'll see if the journey is that peaceful.

Taking 10 every day to find and gather berries: Know Nature 19, Survival 18.

Honor Bright (Kathy)
Tuesday September 8th, 2020 3:07:35 PM
Honor giggles a little at Elron's joke.

To Asimov, she says, "Well, we might. I just hope that if there are demons, they are real demons." She sounds a little miffed.

"I agree with Zeoll," she says the next morning. "We should press on. I'm not sure how much time little Daniella has, but we shouldn't waste it."

SteveM - Elron | AC 21, HP 24
Tuesday September 8th, 2020 7:13:51 PM
"I'm all for continuin' to the swamp if it lets us help that cute little girl faster."

Elron also looks for the fox every now and then, but he doesn't let it take up too much of his time. He's more concerned that it might follow them than that it will be hanging around where they last saw it. If he sees it first he will likely chase it away. Foxes, no matter what Zeoll and Mundhildur think, continue to be evil.

Asimov | Hugh | AC 15/12/13 HP 21/21 d20+6=19 ;
Tuesday September 8th, 2020 11:37:21 PM
Asimov says to Honor, "Who needs demons when your friends do enough damage to knock you unconscious? I know you guys didn't mean it, but still that combat could have gone a lot better. Thank you for dragging my butt out of there though."

He prepares some healing items, some weapons and some utilities before they break camp and he keeps his eyes peeled as they move along.

(Perception: 19)

Devices Prepared:
0th:magic detector, freeze ray, lesser temporary health improvement capsule
1st: medi-haler light (cure light wounds), medi-haler light (cure light wounds), wrist rockets

Petty-DM Hugh - What the fox say?
Tuesday September 8th, 2020 11:46:53 PM
Munhildur helps prepare breakfast in the morning. She looks for any signs of the fox friend. She asks Zeoll where they are headed next.

Zeoll informs Muhildur that there is no need to head back. Zeoll spends some time gathering berries as they make their way along the trail.

Honor giggles a little at Elron’s joke. She suggests they might have as much difficulties getting the mushrooms as they did with the moss but she hopes but if they do face demons they are real. Honor agrees with Zeoll’s push to press on.

Elron agrees about pressing on. He looks out out the fox to but unlike with Munhildur and Zeoll he wants to chase it away.

Asimov reflects on how the previous encounter could have went a lot better. He makes sure to prepare devices for the day ahead and keeps and eye out for anything as they move down the trail.

The days travel passes quickly and uneventfully. Zeoll is able to collect berries for hsi casting. It is fairly peaceful heading into the evening.

Perception: 18 Highlight to display spoiler: {It would appear your friend the fox has actually been tailing you. It just hasn’t made itself known until now. It does look hungry though.}

Zeoll the Greensinger | AC15, 16hp | Cayzle d20+6=15 ;
Wednesday September 9th, 2020 12:04:57 AM
Perception 15

As the team travels, Zeoll helps pass the time by singing. "Mundhi, sing with me," he suggests.

Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant (Kim) AC 17 Touch 13 FF14 HP 22/22 d20+4=20 ; d20+2=11 ; d20+3=16 ;
Wednesday September 9th, 2020 12:45:23 AM

Mundhildur takes Zeoll up on his suggestion to sing along the way. She sings a few common songs she has heard elsewhere, and also a couple of her people. She learns what songs she can from the bard. "Sing me a song of your people, Zeoll," she requests.

Perhaps midday she spots the fox trotting along the edge of the vegetation near the road about forty yards back. "Refur! It's you, little red one!" Mundhildur exclaims with joy. "Oh, my, but you look hungry. You didn't find the bit of food I left for you? Oh, let me make it up to you." Most of her food is on Asimov's wagon, but she has some in her bag. "Ah, here," she says. She holds two items in her left hand, takes a few slow steps forward, then crouches down, hand outstretched. One of the two items is a bit of cheese. She tosses it about seven or eight feet ahead of her, and slightly to one side so that the fox can see she was not throwing anything directly at him. She waits. "It's all right, Refur. It's cheese, from a cow."

If he draws near, she remains still. If he seems nervous, coming near, but not all the way to the food, she speaks soothingly. "I'll back up a little so you can come closer." Only if needed, does she do so. If he takes and eats the cheese, then she sets down the second item, one of the eggs she gathered the day they set forth, then backs off about five feet. "Here you go, little fox. It is yours."

Just then, she remembers Zeoll's offer to speak with the fox in his own language. What a wonderful talent the lion man has! "Zeoll, talk to him for me, please!"

It does not occur to her to consider what Elron might think of her offering an egg to the fox. She's just thinking about what the pretty thing may like to eat.

Also, should the fox draw near, she looks to see how his leg is faring. Did the medi-haler Asimov used on the poor critter take care of most of the damage? Is any remnant of the wound still visible? If so, she may ask Zeoll if he has any of those goodberries left. Should the fox draw close enough, she will gently scratch his ears and pet him along the flanks. "Can I take a look at your leg again, little one?" she coos. Not pushing it, but if he seems willing, she will look more closely, even hold him if he will allow.

"There must be some critters - bunnies, maybe? - you can find along the way, right? I'll give you some food, but you need to fend for yourself, too." If Zeoll does offer a goodberry, and if the fox's wound is still in need of care, she offers one or two to him. "This will help your leg." If the leg is fine, then the berry should fill up his stomach well enough.

==============
Perception: 20
Handle Animal: 11
Perform, Singing: 16

Zeoll the Greensinger | AC15, 16hp | Cayzle
Wednesday September 9th, 2020 2:07:57 AM

Zeoll smiles, wondering if Elron will comment on the "refur madness."

He is happy to help out howsoever he can, translating and offering a berry.

Honor Bright (Kathy)
Wednesday September 9th, 2020 1:57:55 PM
Honor winces a little when Asimov reminds her of how the combat went. "Yes, I'm sorry about that," she says lamely. "And don't thank me for getting you out. Elron dragged you to safety, and then Mundhildur carried you away once we got the moss. I just stood there and got hit."

When Mundhildur starts fussing over the fox, Honor tries to wait patiently.

SteveM - Elron | AC 21, HP 24 d20+11=24 ;
Wednesday September 9th, 2020 8:14:50 PM
(Perception = 24)

Elron was ready to let the fox wander off on its own rather than upset his co,panions, but this just takes the cake. He hears Mundhildur suggesting that it feed on baby rabbits as well as whatever she is able to feed it. . . "Now see here, Mundhilduh! That thing is not coming with us! Now you can shoo it off, or I will. I've a feelin' you'd be a mite more gentle about it. But it's leavin'."

If Mundhildur says her goodbyes and lets the thing go, Elron won't try to rush her.

Elron is happy to sing with Zeoll, if Zeoll knows the same songs. Or he can hum along otherwise.

Asimov | Hugh | AC 15/12/13 HP 21/21 d20+6=25 ; d20+1=2 ;
Wednesday September 9th, 2020 11:41:47 PM
Asimov says, "I am indebted to you Elron for dragging me away and to you Mundhildur for carrying me the rest of the way, therefore it is inconvenient for me to see you on opposite sides of the fox debate. Would it really be that bad if we kept the fox as a mascot? I mean Elron you are how much larger than the tiny fox, the way you react to it, its as if your sizes were reversed."

(Perception: 25)
(Survival: 2)

As the day is about to reach its end the Technomancer tries to find a decent enough place to rest for the night.

Petty-DM Hugh - Mundhi, sing with me d20+12=15 ;
Thursday September 10th, 2020 12:03:22 AM
Zeoll passes the travel time by singing and trying to encourage the others to do so too.

Mundhildur sings along with Zeoll and asks him to sing a song of his people.
Around midday she spots the fox and gives it the name Refur. She shares some food with the fox and it gradually comes over and tentatively eats it. The foxes wounds appeared to be healed and even shares a good berry with it.

Honor winces a little at Asimov’s comment but she points out who was responsible for getting the technomancer out of trouble. She waits as Munhildur starts fussing over the fox.

Elron sings with Zeoll a bit but then when the fox shows up he puts his foot down regarding the fox. He says it is not coming with them and it is either up to him or her to shoo it away.

Asimov is not happy that his 2 rescuers are on either side of the fox debate. He asks Elron what is so wrong with the fox when Elron is so much bigger than it. As the day gets later he tries to look for some place to camp.

As the shadows grow long you come to a pumpkin patch. It is full of pumpkins.

Perception 28 Highlight to display spoiler: { something seems off about one of the pumpkins like it is out of place}

If you pass the DC 28 perception check and a Know(Nature) 16 Highlight to display spoiler: {That pumpkin is an evil plant monster known as a Jack-o-Lantern}

Perception 15 Highlight to display spoiler: { there also is a severed hand resting in the pumpkin patch}

If you pass the DC 15 perception check and a Know(Religion) 14 Highlight to display spoiler: { That’s no severed hand, it’s a crawling hand a diminutive undead creature that likes to strangle people}

Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant (Kim) AC 17 Touch 13 FF14 HP 22/22 d20+4=17 ; d20+4=5 ; d20+4=24 ;
Thursday September 10th, 2020 4:04:23 AM

"Who made chickens and roosters, Elron?" Mundhildur asks him.

She follows up with, "And who made dogs and foxes, Elron?"

She awaits his responses, then says, "I think the same person made them all. Does not each have a purpose? How is it you judge this fox as evil? I cannot see the evil you claim for him. You will not harm this small red one. Refur is my friend, not your enemy." She pauses. "Perhaps, if you have a change of heart, he may be your friend, too. But like him or not, he is my fox. I am his Jotun."
==========

"I do not wish to rest among pumpkins. They are, however, good for eating, and for throwing. Hey, look, someone lost a hand!" She points out the hand lying upon the ground. Then continues her enumeration. "For spitting seeds. For blade practice." Mundhildur tries to illustrate by taking her long spear, swinging it in an arc, and aiming to slice a pumpkin clean through. Instead, the tip of her blade kicks up a bit of dirt. "Well, maybe like this," she adds, after wiping the dirt from the tip of the blade. She spins around, and the tip of the spear can almost be heard whistling as it slices the air - then a pumpkin, cut at the waist as it were, the top half seeming to lift into the air an inch or two, then settling slightly askew on top of the bottom pumpkin half.

SteveM - Elron | AC 21, HP 24 d20+11=27 ; d20+11=29 ;
Thursday September 10th, 2020 10:44:19 AM
(Perception = 27, 29; no religion skill)

Elron is flabbergasted that Mundhildur would argue with a request that already goes out of its way to accommodate her feelings.

"I see you know less about foxes than I thought. Foxes ain't like dogs. Dogs are bad enough, but foxes --" He pauses for a few moments trying to decide where to start. "I assume your people sometimes fight with other folks. Now, suppose you have two sets of enemies. One follows certain rules o' war. Their fighters meet your fighters in battle. Th'other doesn't follow those rules. Not only do they meet your fighters in battle, but after the battle they hunt down your women and children and slaughter them. Wouldn't you say that the second enemy is worse than the first? Evil, even?" Elron hopes this is getting through. "Foxes don't kill what they need to eat. They kill what they find. And that is how I know they are evil."

Elron kicks at the hand, downcast. "I like ya', girl. You have a big heart. I don't like breakin' it. But tha's the way foxes are."

He pecks at the sliced pumpkin a bit.

Zeoll the Greensinger | AC15, 16hp | Cayzle d20+6=14 ; d20+9=21 ; d20+6=12 ;
Thursday September 10th, 2020 12:52:38 PM

Zeoll, on reflection, tends to agree with Elron that the fox should go. "Not because foxes arre evil, mind you, but because foxes arre not domesticable crreaturres. They arre wild, and they should live in the wild, not become dependent on hand-outs."

"Besides, as adventurrerrs, we end up in dangerrous situations all the time, and a little fox like that won't surrvive its firrst fireball."

"I'll tell it to go off and live with other foxes and to not come arround any morre, if you say the worrd, Mundhi."

Later, Zeoll takes Mundhildur aside for a private chat. "You know, a drruid like me gets an animal companion laterr on. One that is harrdy enough to stand up in a fight. When I have the ability to call mine, you tell me what kind of crreaturre you would like, and that's what I'll call. It can be a pet forr the whole grroup that we don't have to worrry about dying in a fight. And if it does die, I can call it back again with my naturral magic."

=====

Perception DC28 is out of reach -- only have a +6.

Perception DC15: rolled a 14, lol.

Zeoll does not notice anything, but he is curious about a pumpkin patch in the middle of the wilderness. Does it look natural and wild, or cultivated and tended?

Knowledge Nature 21

When Mundhildur says she found a hand, Zeoll is surprised. He takes a look. Is it fresh or rotted? What creature might it have belonged to? Zeoll searches for other signs of violent conflict having taken place here, and uses his scent to sniff for blood. Perception 12.

Honor Bright (Kathy) d20+3=20 ; d20+6=23 ;
Thursday September 10th, 2020 12:58:45 PM
"A hand?!" Honor echoes in disbelief. Then she sees it.

"Zeoll! Get away from that thing! It's undead; it'll hurt you!"

Honor draws Virtue.

Asimov | Hugh | AC 15/12/13 HP 21/21 d20+6=14 ;
Thursday September 10th, 2020 11:28:44 PM
(Perception: 14)

Asimov doesn't really see anything on his own but when Honor points out the undead hand he readies his wrist rockets.

Devices Prepared:
0th:magic detector, freeze ray, lesser temporary health improvement capsule
1st: medi-haler light (cure light wounds), medi-haler light (cure light wounds), wrist rockets

Petty-DM Hugh - Hey, look, someone lost a hand d100=3 ; d4=2 ; d4=1 ; d10=10 ;
Friday September 11th, 2020 2:33:51 AM
Munhildur asks Elron who makes chickens and roosters and who makes dog and foxes. She explains she thinks the same person made them and she does not see them as evil. She later says that she does not wish to rest among the pumpkins and she uses one for for blade practice after pointing out someone lost a hand.

Elron still argues that foxes are evil and continues to press the point while acknowledging that Munhildur has a big heart. Later he pecks at some sliced pumpkin.

Zeoll tends to agree with Elron but not because foxes are evil but because they are wild. He also argues that it wouldn’t survive its first fireball. He tells the fox this. Later he takes Munhildur aside and explains he can call an animal companion and asks Munhildur what kind of animal companion she’d like him to have. When they encounter the pumpkin patch later Zeoll examines it. The patch looks wild. He takes a look at the severed hand and it looks surprisingly well preserved with no trace of blood.

Honor draws virtue and calls out a warning that the hand is actually undead

Asimov doesn’t see anything on his own but when Honor points out the undead he readies his wrist rockets

One of the pumpkins abruptly changes shape and grows to be medium size projecting an aura before belching out a 20 foot cone of flame both effects only impact Elron and Munhildur for now.

Munhildur and Elron need to make Will Save DC 13 or be Shaken for 3 minutes. They also need to make a DC 12 reflex save or take 10 fire damage. Success means they only take 5 damage.

Combat has been joined. Munhildur and Elron are near the medium fire-breathing Pumpkin monster. Honor and Zeoll are 35 feet away from the pumpkin, near the diminuitive crawling hand with Asimov about 10 feet from them.

Know Nature DC 16 Highlight to display spoiler: {The pumpkin monster is a jack-o-lantern. It can hide in plain sight in a pumpkin-patch and has the ability to breathe fire}

(OOC: Sorry the post is late and their is no map; I’ll add one when I post tomorrow)

Zeoll the Greensinger | AC15, 16hp | Cayzle
Friday September 11th, 2020 2:49:16 AM

Zeoll starts his bardsong to Inpire Courage (+1 to attack and damage). He moves carefully around the hand to flank it with Honor, giving her a +2 flanking bonus to attack.

"Is it all hallow's eve alrready?" he asks, smiling.

Zeoll the Greensinger | AC15, 16hp | Cayzle d20+9=25 ;
Friday September 11th, 2020 2:51:39 AM
Oh, know nature check: 25

Zeoll calls out, "That monsterr plant can hide in pumpkin patches and brreathes firre!"

He tries to think of non-obvious information he may have heard about this thing.

SteveM - Elron | AC 21 (19 raging), HP (23)/24 (28 raging) d20+6=15 ; d20+8=19 ; d20+4=12 ; d4+2=6 ;
Friday September 11th, 2020 11:40:38 AM
(will save = 15; reflex save = 19)

Just what Elron needs to work out his frustrations!

Assuming the pumpkin creature is close (5' move or less to reach), Elron rages and attacks. If it is more than a 5' move, he moves and attacks. The HP above and rolls below assume he rages.

Elron swings with his customary whappin' stick, hitting AC 12 for 6 damage.

=====
Effects:
Rage -- 1/6

Honor Bright (Kathy) d20+7=8 ;
Friday September 11th, 2020 1:35:27 PM
Well, it's not a demon, but ridding the world of foul, unnatural undead is pretty good, too.

Honor chops at the crawling hand--and almost drops Virtue as her blow hits the dirt. [Nat 1 on the attack.]

Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant (Kim) AC 17 Touch 13 FF14 HP 22/22 d20+2=18 ; d20+2=13 ; d20+5=14 ; d20+5=17 ; d6+4=10 ; d6+4=9 ;
Saturday September 12th, 2020 3:09:38 AM

Mundhildur sends the fox off when Elron initially complains. But after he answers her further, then Zeoll adds his thoughts, she decides.

"All right. All right. The next time that Refur shows up, I will explain to him that he must find his own way now. And tell him that, though I would like to be his friend, not all of my friends agree. 'Maybe some other time I will see you. For now, though, go on your way. Stay far away from large roosters. If ever you see me alone, though, we will greet. But do not come near when the rooster is here.' That is what I shall say."

She holds her piece for a moment, then adds, "And then, Elron, you can shout and wave your stick and scare him away from you."

Later she tells Zeoll that his notion of finding a good animal companion for himself suits her well.

=== Orange Squash ===

Once she hears that the hand is some sort of undead thing, Mundhi is dismayed.

Then the flaming pumpkin monster makes itself known, and Zeoll explains a little bit about it, and sings his invigorating song.

Outraged at this unprovoked attack by a pumpkin following her slicing an innocent pumpkin in half, she is not shaken, but is stirred to action. The bulk of the flames that might have gotten her were slightly diverted by a large at-the-moment-inert pumpkin, so she takes only 5 hp fire damage. It singed some lace!!

She slams, then slams again the hot and evil squash. Hit AC 14 and AC 17 for 10 and 9 hp damage, 19 total.

"What did we ever do to you, norange skin??" she shouts at it. "Until just now, that is." She adds while taking a 5-foot step back, longspear at the ready.
========
Will save: 18/13
Dex save vs fire: 13/12
Slam #1 attack: AC 14, damage 10
Slam #2 attack: AC 17, damage 9

Asimov | Hugh | AC 15/12/13 HP 21/21 d4+1=3 ;
Saturday September 12th, 2020 11:24:41 PM
Asimov fires off his wrist rockets at the hand for 3 force damage

Petty-DM Hugh - What did we ever do to you, norange skin?
Saturday September 12th, 2020 11:27:22 PM
Zeoll starts singing. He asks if it is all hallow’s eve already and rattles off some things he knows about the jack-o-lantern.

Elron rages and attacks hitting the plant creature savagely.

Honor misses the crawling hand.

Munhildur slams the evil squash twice before taking a 5 foot step back. Between her slams and Elron’s whomping the evil pumpkin monster is no more.

Asimov fires off his wrist rockets at the hand.

Jack-o-lantern : dead
Hand : 3 damage

Map

Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant (Kim) AC 17 Touch 13 FF14 HP 22/22 d20+5=12 ; d8+4=6 ;
Sunday September 13th, 2020 12:32:19 AM

"Elron, you are ferocious!" Mundhildur says as she heads over to help against the hand. She slashes at it, and if AC 12 is good enough, does 6 hp damage. If flanking applies, that hit AC 14.

SteveM - Elron | AC 21 (19 raging), HP (23)/24 (28 raging) d20+4=23 ; d4+2=6 ;
Sunday September 13th, 2020 2:46:11 PM
Elron heads on over to where the others are gathering, smashing the biggest pumpkin along the way (AC 23 for 6 damage) just to be on the safe side. Still, he does not try to engage this human hand until he's had a chance to look things over and make sure he won't get skewered himself the way Asimov did last time. "All of us fightin' one bitty ol' hand seems a mite cramped," to him.

(Move to help surround the hand.)

=====
Effects:
Rage -- 2/6

Honor Bright (Kathy) d20+6=12 ; d8=8 ;
Sunday September 13th, 2020 3:09:29 PM
Undaunted, Honor tries again. This blow is better, but probably not good enough [Hit AC 12 for 11 damage.]

Zeoll the Greensinger | AC15, 16hp | Cayzle d20=1 ; d20=19 ; d4+1=2 ;
Sunday September 13th, 2020 4:12:23 PM
Zeoll, still singing, slashes at the hand with his claws. He rolls a nat 1 and a 19. If the hit on AC19 hits, he inflicts 2 damage to the undead.

Asimov | Hugh | AC 15/12/13 HP 21/21 d20=13 ;
Sunday September 13th, 2020 10:25:35 PM
Asimov retrieves his freeze ray and fire off a round at the crawling hand. His aim is thrown off by firing into combat.

Petty-DM Hugh - Elron you are ferocious d20+5=11 ;
Sunday September 13th, 2020 10:28:44 PM
Mundhildur rushes over to help against the hand and misses.

Elron destroys a random pumpkin en route to helping the others with the hand.

Honor misses the hand again.

Zeoll slashes at the hand with his claws while he continues to sing. He hits it once.

Asimov tries to shoot the hand with his freeze ray and misses.

The hand crawls into Honor’s space and attempts to claw her but misses.

Jack-o-lantern : dead
Hand : 5 damage

Map

Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant (Kim) AC 17 Touch 13 FF14 HP 22/22 d20+5=21 ; d8+4=12 ;
Monday September 14th, 2020 2:06:33 AM

Mundhildur moves to e10, says, "Take a step back, Honor!" and waits to see if Honor steps back a square, say to h10. If so, the 7'4" tall woman readies an attack with her longspear at the evil evil crawly hand at g10. She hits AC 21 for 12 hp damage.

Zeoll the Greensinger | AC15, 16hp | Cayzle d20=10 ; d20=8 ;
Monday September 14th, 2020 8:54:16 AM
Zeoll slashes again at the hand, not worried about hitting Honor, seeing as that's not a thing in D&D. You can't hit your friend by accident.*

He hits AC8 and 10, sure misses seeing as the AC has to be 12 based on size alone, plus a dex bonus.

He keeps on singing, though.

=====
*Oops, the old taur evidently just forgot about the very last fight the party was in!

Honor Bright (Kathy) d20+8=23 ; d8=3 ;
Monday September 14th, 2020 1:55:32 PM
Honor steps back and slashes again. This time she hits!

[Hit AC 23 for 6 damage.]

SteveM - Elron | AC 21 (19 raging), HP (23)/24 (28 raging) d20+11=20 ;
Monday September 14th, 2020 7:37:04 PM
Seeing the hand-thing get both skewered and stabbed, Elron looks around for any other dangers that might be trying to sneak up on them.

(Perception = 20)

=====
Effects:
Rage -- 3/6

Asimov | Hugh | AC 15/12/13 HP 21/21 d20=6 ;
Monday September 14th, 2020 11:21:02 PM
Asimov fires off another shot of his freeze ray and misses.

Petty-DM Hugh - Take a step back, Honor!
Monday September 14th, 2020 11:49:06 PM
Mundhildur moves to e10 and readies an attack against the hand.

Zeoll keeps singing while missing this time with his claws.

Honor hits the hand this time

Elron keeps an eye out for other dangers

Asimov is ready to shoot his freeze ray but the hand is already destroyed.

Combat is over. Combat is done and while Elron doesn’t find any dangers he does find an ivory ring on one of the fingers of the remains of the hands.

He also finds 66 gold pieces, 500 silver pieces and 1800 copper pieces along with a Lapis Lazuli, Malachite, Moonstone, Tigereye, and Turquoise gemstones as well as a masterwork shortbow and a scroll and a potion.

Appraise DC 20 Lapis Lazuli value : Highlight to display spoiler: {10 gp}

Appraise DC 20 Malachite value : Highlight to display spoiler: {11 gp}

Appraise DC 20 Moonstone value : Highlight to display spoiler: {45 gp}

Appraise DC 20 Ivory ring value : Highlight to display spoiler: {50 gp}

Appraise DC 20 Turquoise value : Highlight to display spoiler: { 11 gp }

Spellcraft DC 16 scroll : Highlight to display spoiler: { resistance CL 1 }

Spellcraft DC 16 potion : Highlight to display spoiler: { stabilize CL 1 }

You are still near the pumpkin patch and the hour is getting late. Do you set up camp near here or press on a little more?

Zeoll the Greensinger | AC15, 16hp | Cayzle d20+5=18 ; d20+5=9 ; d20+7=10 ; d20+9=18 ; d20+3=15 ;
Tuesday September 15th, 2020 7:17:46 AM

Zeoll suggests bundling up all the loot together, and having it split into equal shares back in town.

He checks that the moss is okay.

Looking at the scrolls, he can tell that the first one is a scroll of resistance. (Spellcrafts 18, 9)

Zeoll wonders WHY this particular pumpkin patch was a source of evil. He looks around, using his eyes and nose. He casts Guidance several times, too. Perception 10, Survival/Track/Scent 18, Know Religion 15.

But in general, he'd prefer to camp away from the Pumpkin Patch Of Evil (TM).

Honor Bright (Kathy) d6=1 ; d6=4 ;
Tuesday September 15th, 2020 2:09:45 PM
"I agree, Zeoll; we should put some distance between us and this place before we try to camp," Honor says.

She finds the treasure interesting, but unfortunately can't really contribute to figuring out what it is or what it's worth.

"Elron, you're hurt!" she adds. She cures Elron for 4.

Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant (Kim) AC 17 Touch 13 FF14 HP 22/22
Tuesday September 15th, 2020 6:10:15 PM

"Yes, let us go." She does pick up four pumpkins, and, once a place to camp is found, gets out her cooking pot, and cooks up the pumpkin along with other food for friends to enjoy.

SteveM - Elron | AC 21, HP 23/24
Tuesday September 15th, 2020 11:15:42 PM
Once the fight is over, Elron droops. "Exhiliratin'. But it takes a mite out of you." He concurs wholeheartedly with the suggestion that they sort out the loot later, and even more to with the notion that they camp elsewhere. "And thank you, Miss Honuh, for the healin'."

Asimov | Hugh | AC 15/12/13 HP 21/21 d20+8=23 ; d20+8=12 ; d20+8=26 ; d20+8=9 ; d20+8=28 ; d20+9=15 ; d20+9=29 ;
Tuesday September 15th, 2020 11:35:42 PM
Appraise: 23, 12, 26, 9, 28

Asimov knows how much the Lapis Lazuli, the Moonstone and the Turquoise are worth, 10, 45 and 11 gp respectively. He tells his companions this.

He also gets his magic detector running and examines the scroll and potion

He says, "Good news everyone, the potion is a potion of stabilize so if someone on the team is dying you can pour it down their throat and they will stop it."

Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant (Kim) AC 17 Touch 13 FF14 HP 22/22 d20+1=12 ; d20+1=20 ; d20+1=17 ; d20+1=21 ; d20+1=20 ; d20+1=5 ;
Wednesday September 16th, 2020 3:10:36 AM

"There is a small amount of malachite in the lower part of the mountains where lives my family. This dark and light veined green stone is such. This whitish ring is ivory, perhaps from a mammoth?" Her voice rises on the last word, to convey her uncertainty. "Turquoise - traders sold a necklace of such to my father who gave it my mother. This is that stone." [extra credit accidental roll at the end]

She gives the respective values of the three items. "I should like the malachite," she says, holding it next to her dark green dress.

Petty-DM Hugh - Exhiliratin'. But it takes a mite out of you.
Wednesday September 16th, 2020 4:02:30 AM
Zeoll suggests bundling all the loot together and splitting it later. He ensures the moss is ok and identifies the scroll as a scroll of resistance. Zeoll suspects that this pumpkin patch was created by a dark druid of the circle of the Silver Birch but there was no sign of the creator. He wants to camp away from the Pumpkin Patch of Evil.

Honor agrees to move from the Pumpkin Patch and heals Elron a little.

Munhildur agrees that they should go and takes a pumpkin to cook with her

Elron droops when the fight is over. He concurs they sort out the loot later and that they move on. He also thanks Honor for the healing.

Asimov figures out how much the Lapis Lazuli, the Moonstone and the Turquoise are worth and determines what the potion is.

Munhildur also chimes in on the identifying of the gems and asks for the Malachite.

The party moves on from the patch and manages to find an open clearing a little ways away. Munhildur prepares a meal of the pumpkin. Do you want to set a watch tonight?

Honor Bright (Kathy)
Wednesday September 16th, 2020 1:32:39 PM
"Maybe Zeoll should carry the potion of stabilize?" Honor suggests. "Elron and Mundhildur and I are likely to be mixing things up in melee, and Asimov has those medi-things."

She helps set up camp, and is strongly in favor of setting a watch. "Although I'm not much good at noticing things," she adds.

Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant (Kim) AC 17 Touch 13 FF14 HP 22/22 d20+1=12 ; d20+4=24 ;
Wednesday September 16th, 2020 1:59:31 PM

"I'll take 2nd watch," offers Mundhildur.

No idea what the first roll was here - might have inadvertently clicked it while looking at my last post, post post, in the wee hours of the morning.
Perception on watch: 24

Zeoll the Greensinger | AC15, 16hp | Cayzle d20+5=22 ;
Wednesday September 16th, 2020 10:18:25 PM

"Oh I don't need the stabilize any morre now that I make goodberrries everry day. Each one is like a potion of stabilize, orr even betterr, since it curres you."

In fact, he tries to make sure that everyone has a goodberry every day, depending on how his luck goes with finding berries and enchanting them.

Zeoll takes first watch.

Perception 22

SteveM - Elron | AC 21, HP 23/24 d20+11=24 ;
Thursday September 17th, 2020 12:04:59 AM
(perception = 24 for watch)

Elron willingly takes a turn at watch. He is willing to take either 3rd or 4th watch.

Asimov | Hugh | AC 15/12/13 HP 21/21 d8+2=10 ;
Thursday September 17th, 2020 12:14:13 AM
Asimov offers Elron a medihaler. If Elron accepts the rooster man heals 10 damage.

Asimov says, "I'll take whichever watch Elron doesn't take."

Petty-DM Hugh - Maybe Zeoll should carry the potion of stabilize?
Thursday September 17th, 2020 12:17:35 AM
Honor suggests that Zeoll should carry the potion of stabilize. She helps setting up camp and is in favor of a watch but she isn’t good at noticing things.

Mundhildur volunteers to take the second watch.

Zeoll rejects the idea of the stabilize potion as the Greensinger has figured out how to create goodberries. He tries to make sure everyone has a good berry and volunteers for the first watch.

Elron volunteers to take the 3rd or 4th watch

Asimov gives Elron a medihaler application and then volunteers to take whichever watch Elron didn’t.

The night passess without incident. You do hear the hoo hoo hoo of an owl and other typical sounds of nature but no immediate threats make themselves known.

Is there anything you want to do before pressing on? You’ll probably reach the outskirts of the swamp sometime today if your travel doesn’t face interruption.

Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant (Kim) AC 17 Touch 13 FF14 HP 22/22 d20+4=22 ;
Thursday September 17th, 2020 1:44:51 AM

Mundhildur takes time as they travel along to find a couple of stones of a shape and consistency to allow use to sharpen her blades. She attends to the blade of her long spear, resolving any nicks, honing the sharp edges. She sings a song in her mother tongue about the very topic, of sharpening a sword, honing a dagger. "May the little girl last long enough to receive the concoction, then grow into bright beauty," she prays aloud.

Once the blade are in good shape, she finds ferns, vines, what flowers she may. She slowly weaves a circlet of plants. When it is finished, she hands it to Honor. "Here, for you." she says.
========
Perception along the way: 22

Honor Bright (Kathy)
Thursday September 17th, 2020 1:52:43 PM
Honor accepts the circlet from Mundhildur. "Oh," she says. "Oh. Thank you very much."

She looks at it for a moment, then tries to coax it into settling atop her helmet. She gets it to perch there, and hope it stays up, because if it falls she won't feel it through layers of steel and padding. "Thank you again!"

She helps break camp, and then is ready to depart.

Zeoll the Greensinger | AC15, 16hp | Cayzle
Thursday September 17th, 2020 2:43:43 PM

Zeoll ponders but has no particular prep to do. He's ready to go forward. "Excelsiorr!" he mutters.

SteveM - Elron | AC 21, HP 23/24
Thursday September 17th, 2020 7:36:40 PM
Elron's got a stick. Prep complete.

"Now what, I say, what was it we were lookin' for in the swamp?" Swamp's not the best think to be walking through with chicken feet, although they do spread his weight a bit more than some.

Asimov | Hugh | AC 15/12/13 HP 21/21
Friday September 18th, 2020 12:45:30 AM
Asimov says to Elron, "Well it is technically a Marsh not a Swamp but aren't they the same thing essentially? As for what we need well we need Purple Mushrooms from the Stokequet Marsh."

Asimov takes some time to get his devices in order before they leave for the day.

Devices Prepared:
0th: compass(know direction), corrosive pistol(acid splash), magic detector(detect magic)
1st: medi-haler light (cure light wounds), medi-haler light (cure light wounds), wrist rockets (magic missile)

Scene 3 - The Swamp

Petty DM Hugh - Well it is technically a Marsh...
Friday September 18th, 2020 1:04:41 AM
Munhildur collects some stones to sharpen her long spear and dagger. She also prays out loud that the little girl lasts long enough to receive the concoction and grow into a bright beauty before weaving a circlet of plants for Honor.

(OOC: Don’t forget the first attacks made from the dagger and spear that hit get a +1 damage bonus for the blades being honed. The honed bonus goes away after the first hit)

Honor thanks Munhildur for the circlet and then tries successfully to settle the circlet around her helmet. She breaks camp ready to depart.

Zeoll has nothing specific to do and is ready to move forward.

Elron has his whooping stick so there is no further prep needed. He asks what they were looking for.

Asimov answers that they need purple mushrooms from the Stokequet Marsh and the technomancer takes time to get his devices in order.

You end up making good time and as the shadows gradually start getting longer (mid afternoon) the trail transitions from the forested trail you were used to the mud typical of the swamp. The sky also transitions from being a blue sky with some clouds to overcast. As with the great tree, previously you are probably going to need to leave the cart and animals somewhere in order to proceed deeper into the marsh.

Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant (Kim) AC 17 Touch 13 FF14 HP 22/22
Friday September 18th, 2020 12:13:55 PM

"Of course it fits. I know you wear the helmet. And other metal clothing."

Mundhi looks around for a good place to leave the animals. As before, she ensures they have some clean water to drink, a bit of food to eat, and enough rope to move about a certain amount.

"I think I could bring a mule along, but perhaps it's better to leave both here. What do you all think?" She goes along with her companions' recommendations. And heads further into the marsh in search of purple mushrooms, and alert to things popping out of the bog.

SteveM - Elron | AC 21, HP 23/24
Friday September 18th, 2020 3:20:03 PM
Elron doesn't know anything about mules in swamps, so he isn't able to help Mundhildur. He decides not to tell her that her clumsy mule has two left feet, on account of she's so literal.

"Don't know as I want to be in there late in the day, but a couple o' hours might be enough to find mushrooms."

Honor Bright (Kathy)
Friday September 18th, 2020 3:23:18 PM
"Don't mules normally have pretty strong opinions about where they will and won't go?" Honor says. "I'd say let it come if it wants to, but don't force the issue."

She joins her party heading deeper into the swamp, well aware that Zeoll and Mundhildur are going to need to take the lead on this one.

Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant (Kim) AC 17 Touch 13 FF14 HP 22/22 d20+2=7 ;
Saturday September 19th, 2020 2:09:01 AM

"Sled does not want to come. I trust him more than Rockhead. All right. You two stay here, and guard the horses. Say hi to the fox if he shows up, but tell him the rooster will chase him off with a stick if he sees him." She says all this in common, so, of course, the mules really don't understand. Except she gives each a carrot, and to the horse(s) as well. They all understand carrots.

She joins the rest in the slog through the marsh. Alert for purple mushrooms or slithering things or jumpy creatures.
========
Handle animal: 7

Asimov | Hugh | AC 15/12/13 HP 21/21 d20+6=21 ;
Saturday September 19th, 2020 10:39:10 AM
(Perception: 21)

Asimov keeps his eyes peeled as the party enters the swamp.

"I wonder how far we will have to go to find the purple mushrooms?" he asks out loud.

Petty DM Hugh - Maybe you should have listened to Sled...
Saturday September 19th, 2020 11:13:21 AM
Munhildur looks for a good place to leave the animals asking her companions’ opinions on bringing a mule.

Elron doesn’t know about mules and swamps but he is concerned about the lateness of the day and if they’ll have enough time to find mushrooms.

Honor asks if Mules have strong opinions about where they will and won’t go and that maybe Munhildur should see if the mules are willing to go first. She is ready to defer the lead for this task to Zeoll or Munhildur.

Munhildur for her part decides to leave the mules with the cart and other animals before joining the others

Asimov keeps his eyes peeled. He is curious as to how far they’ll have to go to find the purple mushrooms.

As you enter the marsh proper you can see humanoid footprints in the mud ahead, but they don’t exit the swamp. Whoever/whatever the footprints belong to stay within the boundaries of the marsh

This place is typical of what you’d expect of a swamp or marsh, there is plenty of mud everywhere as well as plenty of biting insects and areas of stagnant water.

As you move farther into the swamp you notice no change to the sky, as if it is perpetually overcast.

You can’t put your finger on it but the color scheme of the whole marsh seems slightly off from what you’d expect and you feel this weird tingly feeling every now and then on the back of your neck.

(Know[Arcana or Geography] DC: 20 Highlight to display spoiler: {Perhaps the presence of the ley line that crosses the marsh is impacting your perception})

You find plenty of mushroom stalks but they are devoid of mushrooms as if someone got here first and harvested them all.

You don’t know if it is the surrounding environs or the possibility that perhaps there are no more purple mushrooms to be had and that the child could be doomed for want of them but you start to feel a pall settle over the area of the marsh.

(DC 10: Will Save or Become Shaken)

The trail leads further into the swamp...

Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant (Kim) AC 17 Touch 13 FF14 HP 22/22 d20+2=8 ;
Saturday September 19th, 2020 3:42:21 PM

As they go deeper into the swamp, Mundhildur begins to feel disquieted. Nothing specific, merely - out of her element? Unsure? "This place is weird," she announces.

==========
Shaken (rolled 8, needed 10 to save)
A shaken character takes a –2 penalty on attack rolls, saving throws, skill checks, and ability checks. Shaken is a less severe state of fear than frightened or panicked.

SteveM - Elron | AC 21, HP 23/24 d20+6=23 ; d20+11=23 ;
Saturday September 19th, 2020 7:57:19 PM
(will = 23)

Elron notices some of his companions becoming troubled, and although he isn't quite sure why, he tries to cheer them up in his way.

"Did I ever tell you guys my scary swamp story? I needed to get from Effin'ham to Six Mile, and the road went way out of the way to avoid this swamp. Now, I had my stick, so I wasn't worried none. And folks in Effin'ham tol' me, they said, Don' go in that swamp. An' they said, Bad things live in the swamp! But did I lis'en?"

"Yeah, I guess I did. I never went in that swamp."

Elron pauses a moment, just waiting for a reaction. "Alright, it ain't the best story -- but it's a purty good joke."

And if that don't cheer folks up, he may start singing.

(Perception = 23 looking for mushrooms that may have been missed)

"D'ya s'pose them footy-prints may lead us to whoever took the mushrooms?"

Honor Bright (Kathy) d20+7=15 ;
Sunday September 20th, 2020 7:58:50 PM
Honor is entirely untroubled by whatever is wrong in the swamp. [Will save 15]

"Maybe," she says to Elron. "I suppose we could follow them for a ways and find out."

She looks at the mushroom stems. "I don't suppose just the stems would be good enough for the cure?" she asks hopefully. "Or, does anybody know how to grow a mushroom from a stem, or how long it would take?"

Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant (Kim) AC 17 Touch 13 FF14 HP 22/22
Monday September 21st, 2020 2:34:24 AM

About ten seconds after Elron tells his joke, then explains it was a joke, Mundhildur begins to laugh. "You listened!" she says. Then, after a beat, she adds, "But, we were told to go into this joke. I mean, marsh." Then she laughs again this time at what she just said, then trails off nervously.

Zeoll the Greensinger | AC15, 16hp | Cayzle d20+5=16 ; d20+2=12 ; d20+9=27 ; d20+9=11 ; d20+10=19 ;
Monday September 21st, 2020 11:29:08 AM

Zeoll will save: 16. He is not afraid.

Knowledge Geography: 12, nada.

Zeoll suspects that it is the caps that are most efficacious, or else the stems would have been taken too.

"We will have to find these mushroom collectors and bargain with them."

The old liontaur thinks that Elron has a good idea, and he says a prayer and tries to follow the tracks.

Survival (boosted by guidance and scent): 27

Zeoll tries to deduce the species that made these tracks, or anyway some info -- Bipedal? Shod? Size?
Survival 11 Know Nature 19

Asimov | Hugh | AC 15/12/13 HP 21/21 d20+8=25 ; d20+1=2 ;
Monday September 21st, 2020 1:12:01 PM
Know[Geography] : 25
Will Save: 2

Asimov is starting to get wigged out from the swamp.

He says, "You don't suppose the strangeness of this swamp has anything to do with the leyline running through it?"

He says to Elron, "Too bad we didn't listen to the mule when we went this way. I don't think he wanted to come for a reason."

Active Effects:
Shaken

Petty DM Hugh - But, we were told to go into this joke. I mean, marsh.
Monday September 21st, 2020 1:24:25 PM
Munhildur begins to feel disquieted. She announces that this place is weird.

Elron notices some of his companions becoming troubled and he tries to cheer them up with a joke. He starts singing and suggests the footprints may lead to whoever took the mushrooms.

Honor is untroubled by what is wrong with the swamp. She suggests they could follow the trail and find out. She asks if the stems would be good enough for the cure or how long it would take to grow from stems.

Munhildur begins to laugh at Elron’s joke nervously.

Zeoll suspects that the caps are most effective or else the stalks would have been taken too. He follows the tracks into the swamp. The tracks seem bipedal but it is kind of hard to tell considering the mud obscures their shape.

Asimov is affected by the swamp dread effect. He asks if the strangeness of the swamp had anything to do with the leyline running through it.

You continue to follow the tracks. the swamp is part of a shallow bog. It has deep mud or standing water of about 1 foot in depth.

When you pass through these areas of mud or standing water it is slow going and you get the impression if you had to move acrobatically you would be hampered.

The swamp also contains tangles of stones, soil and thorny bushes known as hedgerows. Narrow hedgerows function as low walls, while wide hedgerows provide total cover as a wall does. Navigating hedgerows is more difficult than the boggy areas but if you are able to climb the wide hedgerows you can move at the same speed you can in the bog.

There is plenty of undergrowth for concealment so it is easy to use stealth in the marsh (+10 to stealth checks)

As you walk through this swampy area of the wetland, your feet sink deep into the accumulated layers of mud. The mud is held in place by all the old dead leaves and stems of the plants which have died some indeterminate time ago. It is dark and blackish and as you disturb it, the scent of rotten eggs wafts up.

Know [Nature] or [Geography] : 10 Highlight to display spoiler: {A smelly gas, which is the same as that produced by rotting eggs, is one of the products of this decomposition. }

Know [Nature] or [Geography] : 15 Highlight to display spoiler: {Marsh Gas. This gas is very inflammable and small patches of it may sometimes spontaneously catch fire. }

Honor Bright (Kathy) d20+1=13 ;
Monday September 21st, 2020 2:30:23 PM
Honor makes a note of the smell, but she is more concerned with the consistency of the ground beneath her feet. "This is not a good place for a person in armor," she says.

Zeoll the Greensinger | AC15, 16hp | Cayzle d20+9=26 ; d20+9=16 ; d20+10=23 ; d20+6=18 ; d20+9=14 ;
Monday September 21st, 2020 5:20:26 PM
Know Nature 26 and 16 passes both.

Zeoll warns his friends, "Don't light any firres, frriends! Firre or electrical magic is also dangerrous herre I bet. These smells can mean explosions."

"We should also look out forr rrodents of unusual size."

Zeoll urges his friends to crouch down behind the screening reeds and bramble; he urges everybody to make a stealth check (at +10) and a perception check with every post, in case there is an ambush. He follows his own advice:
Stealth 23
Perception 18

The liontaur continues to lead the party as best he can: Guided Survival 14.

SteveM - Elron | AC 21, HP 23/24 d20+18=35 ; d20+11=21 ;
Monday September 21st, 2020 9:39:45 PM
Elron keeps up his barrage of conversation, perhaps more quiet than usual considering he realizes how difficult he finds it to spot things in all this growth. "Rodents of unusual size? I don't, I say, I don't think they exist." says Elron. "Explosions, eh? So, that's what hap'end to Aunt Milly's outhouse." And of course, "Maybe I could walk up there if I climbed it. Better'n walking through this muck, and I ain't too heavy."

Eventually Zeoll says something about sneaking, and Elron tones it down further.

Stealth 35
Perception 21

Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant (Kim) AC 17 Touch 13 FF14 HP 22/22 d20+10=16 ; d20+2=3 ;
Tuesday September 22nd, 2020 10:14:29 AM

Mundhildur works as she might, and is moderately stealthy (16), but seems so distracted that she really is not good at the moment at picking up clues (Perception 3 - nat 1). She is off her game.

Honor Bright (Kathy)
Tuesday September 22nd, 2020 9:00:20 PM
Honor is actually pretty fond of Elron's chatter, and frequently laughs or remarks on something he's saying. He certainly seems to have a lot of relatives! she thinks.

SteveM - Elron | AC 21, HP 23/24
Tuesday September 22nd, 2020 11:04:58 PM
Elron eyes the hedgerows. He would be seen up there, but he'd be dry.

Asimov | Hugh | AC 15/12/13 HP 21/21 d20+8=10 ; d20+8=10 ; d20+16=35 ; d20+6=19 ;
Wednesday September 23rd, 2020 1:00:27 AM
Know Geography : 8
Stealth : 33
Perception: 17

Asimov actually manages to move stealthily through the swamp.

He says to Zeoll, "I have no flame devices with me, but yeah that smell means decaying vegetation."

Active Effects:
Shaken

Petty DM Hugh - These smells can mean explosions. 2d6=8 ;
Wednesday September 23rd, 2020 1:15:48 AM
Honor makes a note of the smell but is more concerned with the consistency or lack thereof of the ground beneath her feet, especially with her armor
Zeoll warns his friends not to light any fires and that fire or electrical magic is not a good idea because the gas is volatile. He urges the others to look out for rodents of unusual size and to take advantage of the natural cover provided as he guides the others.
Elron doesn’t think Rodents of unusual sizes exist and surmises that the explosions could be what happened to Aunt Milly’s outhouse. He notices the climbability of the wide hedgerows and considers climbing one as it looks easier to deal with than the muck. Eventually Zeoll’s advice on sneaking sinks in and Elron moves silently through the some hedgerows
Mundhildur works as she might but is only moderately stealthy. She seems distracted and off her game.
Honor is fond of Elron’s chatter and laughs at remarks at what he says. She thinks about all the relatives he must have.
Elron eyes the hedgerows, he’d be visible but he’d be dry.
Asimov manages to move stealthily through the swamp. He remarks he has no flame devices and agrees the smell means decaying vegetation.
As you continue to navigate the brackish bog you see all around you that sometimes the gas pockets Zeoll pointed out previously swell toward the surface and burst violently.
You come to an area of the bog where there is a low hedgerow on your side...

Perception DC: 15 Highlight to display spoiler: {The marsh gas is swelling up in your mist. You need to move NOW! While you don’t have an open flame with you the gas on its own can still cause damage}

If everyone fails the check Highlight to display spoiler: {Everyone takes 8 bludgeoning damage; Reflex DC 15 for only 4}

Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant (Kim) AC 17 Touch 13 FF14 HP 22/22 d20+2=10 ; d20+10=13 ;
Wednesday September 23rd, 2020 2:31:09 AM

Unless someone else tells her to move, Mundhildur just keeps slogging along, semi-stealthily. If they do tell her to move quickly somewhere, she will do so.

SteveM - Elron | AC 21, HP 23/24 d20+11=12 ; d20+18=24 ; d20+8=17 ;
Wednesday September 23rd, 2020 7:11:33 AM
(Perception = 12, stealth = 24)

Elron continues forward, distracted by the need to stay quiet. It don't come natural, he thinks -- but he manages not to say so.

If everyone fails the perception check: Highlight to display spoiler: {Reflex save = 17}

Zeoll the Greensinger | AC15, 16hp | Cayzle d20+6=12 ;
Wednesday September 23rd, 2020 8:48:04 AM

Perception 12. Alas.

Zeoll is still sneaking along, oblivious.

Honor Bright (Kathy) d20+3=9 ; d20+4=6 ;
Wednesday September 23rd, 2020 1:26:54 PM
Honor continues to watch her feet, more concerned about getting mired down than blown up. [Perception 9]

[If Asimov misses the check as well, Honor takes 8 bludgeoning damage.]

Asimov | Hugh | AC 15/12/13 HP 21/21 d20+6=21 ;
Wednesday September 23rd, 2020 3:30:01 PM
Perception: 19

"Everyone over the low hedgerow now!" Asimov yells and he proceeds to do as he commanded his fellow party members to do.

Once everyone gathers there and is safely out of the way of the gas he says, "That was close"

Zeoll the Greensinger | AC15, 16hp | Cayzle d20+7=19 ;
Wednesday September 23rd, 2020 3:42:47 PM

"Thank you, my frriend," Zeoll tells Asimov. "My nose is so clogged with the stench of this place, I did not even notice a bolus of the stuff was thrreatening!"

Zeoll looks around, saying a prayer and wondering if the gass attack was intended to soften the group up for an ambush.

Perception 19

Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant (Kim) AC 17 Touch 13 FF14 HP 22/22
Wednesday September 23rd, 2020 4:11:12 PM

Mundhildur does as Asimov instructs. Then hears a rude noise, and picks up a fresh whiff. "What was that?!"

Petty DM Hugh - What was that? d20+9=17 ; d20+15=27 ;
Wednesday September 23rd, 2020 5:37:12 PM
Munhildur keeps slogging along, semi-stealthily.
Elron keeps moving forward distracted by the need to stay silent.
Zeoll is sneaking along oblivious
Honor keeps watching her feet more concerned about getting caught in the bog than her surroundings
Asimov was paying attention. He detects the telltale rumbling of gases. He ushered everyone to the other side of the low hedgerow just in time.
Zeoll gives thanks to the human’s perception noting that his nose was clogged. The taur also keeps an eye out for danger
Munhildur does as Asimov suggests then asks what was the sound and whiff
After you all take a moment to catch your breath you continue on through the swamp, tall bulrush plants, tower over your head, with the fuzzy brown seed heads shedding their seeds into the wind. Water voles rustle in the reeds. Open pools of water start to appear here as the water becomes deeper still and the swamp plants begin to thin out. The pools are full of a staggering variety of life, from water beetles and bugs, to small fish such as sticklebacks. And mosquitos. Don’t forget the mosquitoes.

However it isn’t ultimately the mosquitos that threaten you but something else…

(OOC: don't forget the penalty of -2 if you are shaken from the effect of the marsh)

Perception: 17 Highlight to display spoiler: {A parasite ballooned to monstrous proportions undulates in the muck, its circular maw a spiral of teeth. This giant leech is medium sized and was lying in wait for you. Good thing you saw it; you may act against it in the surprise round. A map will be coming tomorrow.}

Perception: 25 Highlight to display spoiler: {A smaller version of the other creature you spotted is also moving around in the muck. This one is only sized small. You may act against either the normal giant leech above or the young giant leech here in the surprise round. A map will be coming tomorrow}

Zeoll the Greensinger | AC15, 16hp | Cayzle d20+6=24 ;
Wednesday September 23rd, 2020 8:19:42 PM

"Watch out for that dire leech!" Zeoll calls out. He starts singing to Inspire Courage. He takes out his rope.

Everyone gets +1 to attacks and damage.

Honor Bright (Kathy) d20+3=10 ;
Wednesday September 23rd, 2020 8:28:08 PM
"Wait, there's a dire leech?" Honor says. [Perception 10]

"Wait, there are dire leeches?"

She draws Virtue and looks around.

SteveM - Elron | AC 21, HP 23/24 d20+11=20 ;
Wednesday September 23rd, 2020 10:44:35 PM
(Perception = 20)

"Is that what that is? Shoot, I thought I was going to be in worm heaven!" Elron prepares to attack. "Maybe it'll taste good anyway."

SteveM - Elron | AC 21, HP 23/24 d20+2=16 ; d4=1 ;
Wednesday September 23rd, 2020 10:50:05 PM
If I misread the post and Elron gets to attack this round, he moves and attacks. He hits AC 17 for 2 damage.(including bonuses for inspiration not in the rolls).

Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant (Kim) AC 17 Touch 13 FF14 HP 22/22 d20+2=22 ; d20+3=9 ; d20+3=16 ; d8+2=10 ;
Thursday September 24th, 2020 1:45:33 AM

Mundhi clearly sees something and calls out, "Slimy skinned toothy mouth here!" and with longspear tries to attack it. Her first attempt falls short, her second hits AC 16 for 10 hp damage. If she needs to step back 5' to stay out of its range, yet have it in hers, she does so.

Asimov | Hugh | AC 15/12/13 HP 21/21 d20+4=22 ; d4+1=2 ;
Thursday September 24th, 2020 3:55:30 AM
(Perception: 22)

Asimov fires off his wrist rocket at the hidden leech (2 force damage)

"There may be a lot of mosquitos here but apparently the giant leech is the real parasite we need to watch out for."

Petty DM Hugh - Wait, there's a dire leech? d6=3 ; d20+1=13 ; d20+2=7 ; d20+1=16 ;
Thursday September 24th, 2020 4:28:18 AM
There were two leeches waiting to ambush you, one medium and one small. You found the medium older leech but you missed the small young leech.
The small young leech attacks Elron and misses.
The party acts...
Zeoll sings to inspire courage and takes out his rope
Honor was caught off guard and drew virtue.
Elron is disappointed the creature is not a giant worm. He hits the medium leech.
Munhildur also hits the medium leech with her long spear
Asimov keeps his distance and fires off wrist rockets at the medium leech
Medium Leech: 14 damage
Small Leech: unharmed
The medium leech attempts to bite and latch onto Munhildur but misses (7 vs AC)
The small leech attempts to bite and latch onto Honor (16 vs AC; miss)
map

Honor Bright (Kathy) d20+6=17 ; d8=3 ;
Thursday September 24th, 2020 12:32:34 PM
"Blood-sucking fiend!" Honor cries. Secretly, she'd been hoping to use that one against vampires, but you take what you can get.

She swings Virtue at the smaller leech. [Hit AC 17 for 7 damage.]

Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant (Kim) AC 17 Touch 13 FF14 HP 22/22 d20+3=17 ; d20+3=20 ; d8+2=8 ; d8+2=10 ;
Thursday September 24th, 2020 7:28:18 PM

Mundhildur hits the medium sucker twice more (AC 17, AC 20) for 8 + 10 = 18 hp damage. "My granny used leeches once on my cousin. We thought it was gross. He thought it was funny."

SteveM - Elron | AC 21, HP 23/24 d20+2=6 ;
Thursday September 24th, 2020 7:48:20 PM
Now what are the odds. . . Elron wonders. With formidable fighters already tackling the medium leech, he decides to go after the small one. He moves to 9g and swings at the slimy thing.

(Hits AC:6 -- oops, that should be AC 7)

Zeoll the Greensinger | AC15, 16hp | Cayzle d20+2=8 ;
Friday September 25th, 2020 12:07:11 AM
Zeoll keeps on singing, and also pauses to cast his animate rope spell. He rolls a touch attack to get the rope near the small leech. He rolls an 8, a miss. He spends his move action pulling in his rope so he can try again next round.

Asimov | Hugh | AC 15/12/13 HP 21/21 d20-1=2 ;
Friday September 25th, 2020 3:26:18 AM
Asimov fires off a round from his corrosive pistol at the small leech (3 vs touch; miss)

Petty DM Hugh - Blood Sucking Fiend d20+1=7 ;
Friday September 25th, 2020 3:43:03 AM
Honor uses a line she’s been saving for vampires against the leeches as it is still appropriate and ends up hitting the small leech.
Munhildur attacks and hits once for 8 damage slaying the medium leech (OOC: I misread last turn’s attack and thought it was a slam for some reason. You either get 2 natural slam attacks, a single regular attack or a single regular attack and a single slam made at -5 )
Elron shifts his attention to the small one and misses it.
Zeoll keeps singing and tries to get the small leech with his animated rope but misses
Asimov fires off a round from his corrosive pistol and also misses.
The small leech moves away from Honor and towards Zeoll, Honor gets an AOO. The leech attacks the Liontaur this time (7 vs AC; miss)

map

SteveM - Elron | AC 21, HP 23/24 d20+3=14 ; d4+1=5 ;
Friday September 25th, 2020 11:12:23 AM
Elron follows the small leech (move to 10g) and swings again.

Hit AC 14 for 5 damage (remembering Zeoll's inspired bonuses)

Honor Bright (Kathy) d20+6=22 ; d8=1 ; d20+6=17 ; d8=5 ;
Friday September 25th, 2020 12:59:19 PM
Honor's AoO hits AC 22 for 5 damage.

She steps forward and strikes again, this time hitting AC 17 for 9 damage.

Zeoll the Greensinger | AC15, 16hp | Cayzle d20+2=7 ;
Friday September 25th, 2020 7:37:27 PM

Still singing, Zeoll makes another toss and misses! His spell ends.

Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant (Kim) AC 17 Touch 13 FF14 HP 22/22 d20+3=8 ;
Saturday September 26th, 2020 1:55:07 AM

Taking a couple of steps to advance to E9, the Jotun singer tries to thrust the tip of her longspear past Honor at the second-largest leech she has ever seen, yet misses.

Asimov | Hugh | AC 15/12/13 HP 21/21 d20-1=3 ;
Saturday September 26th, 2020 12:15:27 PM
Asimov fires off another acid attack from his corrosive pistol and misses

Petty DM Hugh - Ding Dong the Leeches are dead...
Saturday September 26th, 2020 12:21:10 PM
Elron follows after the small leech and swings again, hitting his target once again.
Honor has both her AOO and regular attack hit finishing it off.
Zeoll’s spell ends there are no further targets
Munhildur’s spear attempt is not needed
Asimov pistol is at the ready, but there are no further threats.

The bog appears to be quiet at least for now. You have taken care of both leeches and have all emerged unscathed for once. Will your luck hold?

SteveM - Elron | AC 21, HP 23/24 d20+11=20 ; d20+18=29 ;
Saturday September 26th, 2020 12:56:42 PM
"Knew I didn't need to get worked up about a little bitty ol' worm."

Elron looks around, wondering what's coming next. (perception = 20; stealth = 29)

Honor Bright (Kathy)
Saturday September 26th, 2020 1:59:57 PM
"Well, that was disgusting," Honor says. Carefully, she cleans swamp water and leech innards off of Virtue. She is, frankly, a little disappointed. She'd always pictured the hero's life as being more...heroic.

"Let's keep after this mushroom person."

Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant (Kim) AC 17 Touch 13 FF14 HP 22/22
Saturday September 26th, 2020 9:03:03 PM

"Mushroom person?" Mundhildur queries. She looks at her clothing. Muddy splashes amidst dark green background. "We will need to find a clear running stream once we get out of this marsh." She dips her blade in the water, then looks for something growing green not far from where they stand. She uses it to clean off the metal part of the spear. Once clean, she begins to hone the blade.

[Any chance of getting to roll again to see if she might overcome the 'shaken' condition?]

Zeoll the Greensinger | AC15, 16hp | Cayzle d20+9=12 ;
Sunday September 27th, 2020 9:56:14 AM

Zeoll says, "Humph."

"I hope we do not meet any morre of those."

He puts his nose and eyes back to work tracking the mushroom gatherers they were tracking before.

Guided Survival: 12

Asimov | Hugh | AC 15/12/13 HP 21/21
Sunday September 27th, 2020 11:44:20 PM
Asimov says, "I don't feel like I contribute much to the task at hand. I spent most of the last fight missing the leaches and the time before that it was the same with the hand. Shall we press on?"

Petty Dm Hugh - "Let's keep after this mushroom person."
Monday September 28th, 2020 12:01:24 AM
Elron knows he didn’t need to get worked up over a little bitty ol’ worm and he wonders what is coming next.
Honor says that the leech was disgusting and she cleans virtue, being a little disappointed that the heroe’s life is not as heroic as she thought it would be. She also suggests they go after that mushroom person.
Munhildur asks about the mushroom person and suggests she needs to find a clear running stream to clean up once they get out of there. She also starts rehoning her spear.
Zeoll remarks he doesn’t want to fight any more of those and goes back to tracking after the footprints.
Asimov laments how he doesn’t feel like he contributes much before asking to press on.

Those affected by the swamp’s fear effect get to make another DC 12 Will Save to see if they shake off the effect of the swamp.

You continue to move through the bog, the overcast nature of the weather making it hard to figure out what time it really is, save for the fact it is starting to get darker....
Elron or Perception DC 10 : Highlight to display spoiler: {in this twilight you think you can make out flickering lights that resemble torches, lanterns or other flames. They appear to be signalling to you as if they mean for you to follow. Do you?})

Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant (Kim) AC 17 Touch 13 FF14 HP 22/22 d20=17 ; d20+4=18 ;
Monday September 28th, 2020 2:24:21 AM

The success they have had in their last few interactions, and the focus of resharpening her blade, plus some deep breathing exercises helps settle Mundhildur. The unease she first felt dissipates.

"Yeh-yeh, Asimov, you do fine. You have all these clever devices you make. Do not worry about not smashing leaches. No one else knows how to make that healing smelling thing you make."

"Huh. Little lights ahead. Follow, or go around? Where are the footprints we were following?"
=========
Will save d20+2-2=17. She comes out of shaken condition
Perception d20+4=18. Mundhi notices the lights dancing ahead

Honor Bright (Kathy) d20+3=8 ;
Monday September 28th, 2020 1:08:34 PM
"Mushroom person," Honor explains to Mundhildur. "You know, the person we're following who may have taken the mushrooms. Or who may know about them."

"Please don't feel bad," she tells Asimov. "You are clever, and we need somebody clever if we're going to succeed. Let me and Elron whack things with big sticks; that's what we're good at." She smiles.

She does not see anything untoward [Perception 8].

SteveM - Elron | AC 21, HP 23/24
Monday September 28th, 2020 8:27:41 PM
Elron notices that Honor politely did not point out that she and Mundhildur whacked things much harder than he does. That's okay -- he's sure he enjoys it more. Of course, that would mean he enjoyed hitting the egghead more a couple of fights ago, and he hadn't meant to do that. Best to change the subject.

"Yeah, them lights -- I think they might be torches. Should we check 'em out?"

Asimov | Hugh | AC 15/12/13 HP 21/21 d20+1=21 ; d20+6=21 ;
Tuesday September 29th, 2020 1:57:19 AM
(Will Save: 21)

Asimov is starting to feel better too.

(Perception: 21)
He says to Munhildur and Honor, "Thank you both. I guess this swamp was just starting to really get to me, but I feel better now."

He sees the lights and says, "We could see where they lead. Perhaps they know the mushroom man? We could always leave some kind of marker to get back here if the lights deviate from the trail" Asimov says.

Petty DM Hugh - I think they might be torches. Should we check 'em out
Tuesday September 29th, 2020 2:12:22 AM
Munhildur starts to feel the unease she felt previously dissipate. She gives Asimov some encouragement and asks if they should follow the lights or go around.
Honor explains what she means by Mushroom person to the giantess. She also encourages the Tinkerer.
Elron keeps his thoughts to himself regarding how he enjoys hitting things so as not to imply he enjoyed hitting Asimov a couple of fights ago. He asks if they should follow the lights, which might be torches..
Asimov is starting to feel better too. He thanks the giantess and the paladin for their words of encouragement before suggesting they follow the lights while leaving some kind of marker to get back to where the tracks lead should the lights deviate.

You leave your trail of breadcrumbs and start following after the torches…
It is the oddest thing, just as you think you would get near to them, they suddenly seem further and further away. The water in this section of the swamp is starting to get a little deeper too. You can still navigate on foot but the water level is noticeably higher than the part of the swamp you were in previously. The lights beckon you on...

Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant (Kim) AC 17 Touch 13 FF14 HP 22/22 d20+4=18 ;
Tuesday September 29th, 2020 2:38:55 PM

"No. No, we don't need to follow these lights any more," declares Mundhildur. "I enjoy swimming, but it is dark, and they are leading us into the deep, and I do not trust what they have in mind for us. Let us go back to where we just left, find the mushroom man trail, and follow that. And watch our backs as we retrace our steps."

Mundhildur, after speaking, begins to return the way they came. She frequently glances about and strives to listen for sounds not made by the people she is with.
=========
Perception: 18

Honor Bright (Kathy)
Tuesday September 29th, 2020 4:14:41 PM
Honor is glad to turn around. She knows she is not especially nimble, and in her heavy armor, she is uneasy in wet swampland.

"Whoever has those lights," she says. "They could be in boats or something. We shouldn't assume."

SteveM - Elron | AC 21, HP 23/24 d20+11=22 ; d20+18=30 ;
Tuesday September 29th, 2020 7:47:58 PM
"Right. I ain't a duck." Elron is happy to return to shallower waters, or even dry land. He tries to get his bearings and get back on the "mushroom man trail."

(perception = 22, stealth = 30 assuming the +10 still applies)

Zeoll the Greensinger | AC15, 16hp | Cayzle
Tuesday September 29th, 2020 9:46:23 PM

"Yeah, those lights arre a trrap, I think," says Zeoll. He looks around. "But where do we go next?"

Asimov | Hugh | AC 15/12/13 HP 21/21
Tuesday September 29th, 2020 11:54:38 PM
Asimov says, "Good thing I put down breadcrumbs. Can't we just follow them to get back to where we were and then follow the footprints?"

Petty DM Hugh - "Yeah, those lights arre a trrap, I think,"
Wednesday September 30th, 2020 4:23:46 AM
Munhildur is of the idea that you don’t need to follow the lights anymore and that she doesn’t trust whatever the lights have in mind for them. She suggests going back to where they came, finding the mushroom man and watching their backs as they try to find him.
Honor is glad to turn around as her armor is awkward in the swamp. She raises the possibility the lights might be on boats or something.

Elron agrees with everyone else noting he isn’t a duck

Zeoll suggests the lights are a trap and asks where they go next.

Asimov suggests they follow the trail he left back to where they diverged.

It’s a good plan, unfortunately, you are already where the lights wanted you to be. Before you can completely exit the deeper water you look around and see what appears to be dozens of pale faces attached to bodies floating below the surface.

They appear to be all races, genders and ages. You see among them taurs, elves, dwarves, gnomes, humans, beastfolk, and halflings.

DC 15 will save or Highlight to display spoiler: {You become fascinated by one of the apparent corpses, floating below the water, feel free to describe in detail what your character sees}

If you fail that 1 minute later attempt a second DC 15 will save or Highlight to display spoiler: {continue to be fascinated by the corpse, so much so that you bend down to get a closer look, your nose nearly touching the water}

If you fail the 2nd save make one more attempt of a DC 15 will save or Highlight to display spoiler: {stick your head below the water becoming paralyzed for 1 minute, unable to hold your breathe you must start making con checks to avoid drowning. Start with a DC 10 con check. If you pass you need to make a DC 11 con check in your next post after this one. If you fail you go to zero hit points and start drowning.}

SteveM - Elron | AC 21, HP 23/24 d20+6=24 ;
Wednesday September 30th, 2020 6:59:42 AM
(Will save = 24)

"You guys coming'? The water here don't look so good." Elron is a bit freaked out by the faces -- for once his impulse is to leave and not to hit.

Honor Bright (Kathy) d20+7=8 ; d20+7=11 ; d20+7=16 ;
Wednesday September 30th, 2020 11:35:11 AM
Honor stops, staring into the water at a young human fighter. It is Sir Wilfred! Her logical mind tries to tell her that she left Sir Wilfred, hale and hearty, only a few weeks ago, and this could not possibly be his body, but her eyes are convinced. There are the blue gauntlets, the scruffy beard, the little scar he tells people is from a battle but is really from a childhood accident. She stares. "What can this mean?" she murmurs.

After staring for about a minute, she leans down to get a closer look. But there the madness stops.

Zeoll the Greensinger | AC15, 16hp | Cayzle d20+5=23 ;
Wednesday September 30th, 2020 8:00:53 PM

[OOC: Passes first save with a 23]

Zeoll is not taken in by these illusions. He looks at his friends, ready to grab them if they are fooled.

"Come on, frriends, let us get out of herre."

Zeoll leads the way back.

Asimov | Hugh | AC 15/12/13 HP 21/21 d20+1=14 ; d20+1=15 ;
Thursday October 1st, 2020 6:05:04 AM
Asimov is taken aback by the image of a young woman in a white dress with blonde hair below the surface of the water. He comes to his senses after starring at her for a minute and says, "Right, Let's get out of here"

Petty DM Hugh - "You guys coming'? The water here don't look so good."
Thursday October 1st, 2020 6:12:52 AM
Elron asks the others if they are coming as the water doesn’t look so good. Uncharacteristically his impulse is for flight rather than fight.

Honor stares down into the water, seemingly seeing a young human fighter she knew and had left only a few weeks ago. She bends down to get a closer look but comes to here senses.

Zeoll like Elron is not taken in by the illusions at all. He encourages the others to get out of here.

Asimov sees a blonde girl in a white dress and is transfixed by her for a minute before he too comes to his senses.

You exit the area of deep water and the hazard the corpses provide. You follow the trail Asimov left until you return to the point where you first encountered the lights and diverged from following the muddy misshapen tracks Zeoll was following. They don’t seem to be holding up well in this bog...what now?

SteveM - Elron | AC 21, HP 23/24 d20+11=15 ;
Thursday October 1st, 2020 6:58:37 AM
Eltron's no tracker, but he looks around to see if he can see anything that might indicate where a mushroom or mushroom harvester might be. (Perception = 15)

Being in the swamp in the dark is kinda what he was hoping to avoid a few hours ago. No help for that now, though.

Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant (Kim) AC 17 Touch 13 FF14 HP 22/22 d20+2=5 ; d20+2=4 ; d20+2=14 ; d20=18 ;
Thursday October 1st, 2020 2:08:32 PM
[Started posting yesterday, PC crashed...]

Mundhildur saw in the water Jorgan Torsen, a suitor she had rebuffed two months prior to setting out on her chosen life of adventure. Her heart dropped. "JORGAN!" She reached down to draw him up, to pull him out of the water. But she only found a stick in her hand.

Yet there he was, lying still below. She's reached again, submerging her face the better to see him. And went still herself.

She made her first saving throw against drowning...

Zeoll the Greensinger | AC15, 16hp | Cayzle d20=17 ;
Thursday October 1st, 2020 2:51:56 PM
Zeoll grabs Mundhi and drags her out of the water.

Strength check 17

[OOC: Let me know if you need a grapple check or something]

Honor Bright (Kathy) d20+3=19 ;
Thursday October 1st, 2020 6:03:53 PM
When she (finally) comes to herself, Honor tries to help pull Mundhildur up out of the water.

[Strength check 19]

Asimov | Hugh | AC 15/12/13 HP 21/21 d20+1=17 ;
Friday October 2nd, 2020 3:36:58 AM
Asimov tries to help pull Munhildur out of the water after he himself is no longer fascinated by the girl in white.

He says, "I hope the mushrooms are worth all the trouble we're going through."

(Strength check 17 vs DC 10 to aid another)

Petty DM Hugh - "JORGAN!"
Friday October 2nd, 2020 3:59:43 AM
You know this foreboding swamp is funny sometimes you think you are going somewhere but the effects of it have other ideas

Elron goes to leave the the area of deeper water but isn’t able to as the effects of the dead marsh have not been completely avoided

Munhildur think she sees in the water a suitor she rebuffed. She reaches out to him and only grabs a stick. She persists into sticking her head below the water going still but she hasn’t drowned yet.

Zeoll helps grab Mundhi to drag her out of the water

Honor goes to grab Munhildur out of the water after she herself snaps out of it.

Asimov also helps Zeoll and Honor drag the Giantess out of the water.

(OOC: It was only a DC 20 Strength check and since aid another is a thing and everyone rolled 17 or 19 that is good enough to drag Munhildur out of the water)

The paladin, taur and tinkerer are able to get Munhildur out of the water but she remains paralyzed. The good news is she can still breathe. After almost a minute the Giantess is able to move on her own again. Everyone has survived their encounter with the corpses, though some came closer than others in joining them.

Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant (Kim) AC 17 Touch 13 FF14 HP 22/22
Friday October 2nd, 2020 4:07:05 AM

Though her face is damp as she comes out of the paralysis - are those tears flowing from her eyes? "Jorgan" she whispers. As she comes further to her senses, she thanks her friends for pulling her out. She wipes her face as dry as she can get it, now that her clothing is sopping wet. As they begin their way out of this deeper water, she says and asks, "It was a phantom, was it not?" her voice a little shaky.

Honor Bright (Kathy)
Friday October 2nd, 2020 1:36:38 PM
"By Pantheon's grace, I hope they were just phantoms," Honor says with a shudder.

She is no help at all in picking up or following the trail of footprints.

Zeoll the Greensinger | AC15, 16hp | Cayzle d20+9=22 ;
Friday October 2nd, 2020 3:13:58 PM

"Phantasms orr spirrits, they had some powerr, it seems," says Zeoll, "but not enough to foil us!"

The old taur mutters a prayer to Mother Wold and casts about again, looking for mushrooms or signs of those who gather them.

Survival 22

SteveM - Elron | AC 21, HP 23/24
Friday October 2nd, 2020 5:10:03 PM
Elron decides he needs to make sure Mundhi's ok. . . "Mundhilduh -- Did ya hear 'bout the kidnapping in the swamp yestuhday?" He eyes Zeoll's back a moment, up there where it's dry, before delivering the punch line. "He woke up before it got dark...

Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant (Kim) AC 17 Touch 13 FF14 HP 22/22 d20+4=11 ;
Saturday October 3rd, 2020 3:36:06 AM

"What?!" Mundhi asks as Elron tells his short story. "Who woke up? The... oh. The baby goat was napping, then woke up?" She pauses. "Did he get back to his mother before dark?" "How did you know about the kid?"

She is not as helpful as she would like to be in figuring out where the mushroom person has gone. "Let's go that way," she suggests. "There has to be somewhere we can find to sleep. It's hard to figure out things in the dark."

Asimov | Hugh | AC 15/12/13 HP 21/21
Saturday October 3rd, 2020 10:16:01 AM
Asimov says, "I'm glad you are alright Munhildur."

He tries to use his compass to help navigate the swamp.

Petty DM Hugh - "By Pantheon's grace, I hope they were just phantoms,
Saturday October 3rd, 2020 10:25:12 AM
Munhildur thanks her friends for pulling her out and asks if it was a phantom.

Honor hopes it was just phantoms

Zeoll says regardless they had some power but not enough to stop their band. Zeoll is able to pick the trail back up.

Elron tells Munhildur a joke playing upon kidnapping and kid napping to see if the giantess is ok

Munhildur seems to be a little confused by the joke and suggests they find someplace to rest

Asimov asks if Munhildur is ok and then tries to help Zeoll by using his compass.

After your little detour with the phantoms, you can follow the tracks as the water actually starts to become shallow again until eventually you come to a clearing This clearing is roughly 120 feet in diameter, with a dilapidated, circular, 30-foot cottage at its center. Fourteen unnerving 3-foot-tall scarecrow-like effigies are propped-up throughout the glade.

It appears you've found a place you could potentially rest, the glade at least is dry and there is even a little cottage at the center.

SteveM - Elron | AC 21, HP 23/24
Saturday October 3rd, 2020 12:38:10 PM
Elron is glad Mundhildur is ok.

When they reach the glade, he eyes the scarecrows carefully. They need some whappin', and he needs to be doing some. But. . . mushrooms first.

"Ya'll want I should go ask if we can have some mushrooms?" he asks the others.

Honor Bright (Kathy)
Saturday October 3rd, 2020 4:47:03 PM
There is a cottage, the cottage has a door, so the obvious thing is to go and knock on it.

Honor is nothing if not obvious.

She walks up to the cottage and knocks. "Hello? Is anyone home? So sorry to disturb you."

Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant (Kim) AC 17 Touch 13 FF14 HP 22/22
Sunday October 4th, 2020 4:36:43 PM

Mundhildur waits about six feet behind and to the left of Honor as she stands at the door. Knocking seems a good first step.

Asimov | Hugh | AC 15/12/13 HP 21/21 d20+6=20 ;
Monday October 5th, 2020 12:20:35 AM
Asimov casually wanders over by Honor and Mundhildur, he is even farther back than the giantess with his corrosive pistol at the ready, in case this dwelling too is a trap.

Perception: 20

Petty DM Hugh - "Ya'll want I should go ask if we can have some mushrooms?"
Monday October 5th, 2020 12:30:23 AM
Elron is glad Munhildur is okay. He considers whapping the scarecrows but mushrooms first.

Honor approaches the cottage and knocks on the door

Munhildur waits 6 feet behind and to the left as the paladin knocks on the door

Asimov also waits behind Mundhildur and Honor with his eyes peeled and corrosive pistol ready

As Honor, Munhildur and Asimov approach the cottage they can see that its moldering door has rotted off its hinges but still blocks the way within. Honor knocks on the moldering door but there is no answer. You could probably just force the door out of your way if you wanted to. (OOC: DC 15 Strength Check)

Zeoll the Greensinger | AC15, 16hp | Cayzle d20+9=22 ;
Monday October 5th, 2020 6:54:30 AM

Zeoll follows Honor with a "Hallooo!"

"I wonderr if it is abandoned."

The liontaur sniffs around for the smell of mushrooms, says a prayer, and looks at the area around the cottage, especially by the door, for signs that any person or creature has been by here recently.

Guided Survival: 22

Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant (Kim) AC 17 Touch 13 FF14 HP 22/22 d20+3=10 ;
Monday October 5th, 2020 12:04:16 PM

"Excuse me, Honor," Mundhildur says. She steps past her to see if she can move the door out of the way to allow entry. Strength check 10.

If she is able to get the door out of the way, she looks around. If no obvious threat shows itself, she steps gingerly onto the floorboards, checking to see if the floor will hold her weight.

Honor Bright (Kathy)
Monday October 5th, 2020 12:30:26 PM
"It doesn't look like anyone's home," Honor says. "It's getting dark; maybe we should camp here and try again in the morning?"

She steps aside to let Mundhildur try the door.

SteveM - Elron | AC 21, HP 23/24
Monday October 5th, 2020 5:32:01 PM
"Gettin' dark? It's gotten dark! We've been following torches all over." Elron isn't keen on camping in the swamp, although he has to admit this is the driest spot they've seen in a long while. Well, if he's camping with these scarecrows around -- after that pumpkin and that human hand -- he's going to look 'em over real good first. "Say, Zeoll -- can you tell from the footy prints whether someone's in that place now? Or what else has been movin' round in this dry patch?"

Asimov | Hugh | AC 15/12/13 HP 21/21 d20+1=4 ; d20+1=7 ;
Tuesday October 6th, 2020 1:51:54 AM
(Strength Check: 4)
(Strength Check: 7)
...
Take 20

Asimov looks at the decrepid door and the lack of response to his companions' queries and says, "It's late and I doubt anyone is home. That door is in our way. If there is anything in there then I think we should move it out of the way."

It takes the Tinkerer a while but working with the Giantess he is able to finally wrest the door out of his way.

"Shall we check inside?" he asks.

Petty DM Hugh - "Gettin' dark? It's gotten dark! We've been following torches all over."
Tuesday October 6th, 2020 2:12:51 AM
Zeoll follows Honor with a Halooo and asks if the cottage is abandoned. He sniffs around for the smell of mushrooms but if anyone had been by recently it is hard to say and the presence of pungent herbs gets in the way of the Liontaur being able to tell if there may be mushrooms present.

Munhildur steps forward to see if she can move the door out of the way. Her strength check alone was not enough.

Honor suggests that since it is getting dark they camp here and try again in the morning

Elron points out it has been dark and what with the hand and the pumpkin they fought earlier is none too keen on camping in the swamp amidst the scarecrows. He asks if Zeoll can tell if anyone is in the cottage now.

Asimov steps forward to help Munhildur move the door out of the way. It takes him a bit but he finally gets it. He asks the others if they should check inside.

Munhildur doesn’t need to be asked twice. She looks around for threats and then gingerly steps on the floorboards.

Inside, the cottage is dank, reeking, and filled with shadows. Haphazardly hung shelves line the walls, covered in all manner of clay jugs, clouded bottles, strangely cut rocks, rotted bunches of herbs, and a museum of other crude curios and remnants of a bone grinder’s artifice. A rusted iron cauldron, with a mouth nearly 5 feet wide and a depth of at least 3 feet, dominates the hut’s single room, its ash-covered surface shaped with a relief of capering fiends and leering devils. Across from the door, against the far walls, stands a highbacked chair made of wicker, the gigantic curved tusks of some monstrous beast, and thousands of teeth (Heal Check DC 10 Highlight to display spoiler: {Humanoid}). In the chair sits what looks like a corpse wrapped in filthy burial linens, its form padded with pungent herbs and sprouting patches of thick white mold. (Perception DC 10 Highlight to display spoiler: {This ominous shape is actually only a bundle of branches, mud, and linen, left most likely to deter would-be trespassers })

Honor Bright (Kathy) d20+6=8 ; d20+3=7 ;
Tuesday October 6th, 2020 12:32:05 PM
"Ewww!" is Honor's astute observation as she looks around the cottage. "On second thought, let's not spend the night in here."

SteveM - Elron | AC 21, HP 23/24 d3=2 ; d20+11=15 ; d20+4=12 ;
Tuesday October 6th, 2020 7:08:19 PM
(perception = 15; heal = 12; d3 = oops)

"Well, someone must live here. Those scarecrows didn't stuff themselves." Elron ignores the contents of the chair and starts looking for mushrooms, not opening or getting into things yet.

Zeoll the Greensinger | AC15, 16hp | Cayzle d20+6=23 ; d20+10=22 ;
Tuesday October 6th, 2020 11:44:28 PM

Zeoll looks around carefully, using his nose to sniff for mushrooms.

Perception 23

"This so-called corrpse is just anotherr scarrecrrow," he declares.

He says a prayer and tries to identify the herbs and other things in the cottage.

Knowlege Nature 22

"I fearr that the rresident of this place has been absent forr a long time."

Asimov | Hugh | AC 15/12/13 HP 21/21 d20+6=17 ; d20+1=17 ;
Wednesday October 7th, 2020 2:55:46 AM
(Perception: 17)
(Heal : 17)

Asimov takes in the room and the chair and says, "That chair doesn't look very comfortable and look at all those humanoid teeth; You don't suppose the owner of this cottage was a dentist do you?"

Asimov notices how careful his companions are being and says, "Given that there is quite the collection on the shelf I wonder if the mushrooms are present might they be among the items there. I mean there are herbs on the shelves and who knows what in those jars. I'm thinking if the person who owns this place is in anyway knowledgable in the ways of herbalism might they have a system to where they put different ingredients?"

Petty DM Hugh - "Well, someone must live here. Those scarecrows didn't stuff themselves."
Wednesday October 7th, 2020 3:27:15 AM
Honor is a little grossed out by the cottage and suggests they not spend the night.

Elron suggests that someone must live there, ignores the chair and starts looking for the mushrooms, being careful not to disturb things yet.

Zeoll looks around carefully using his nose. He tries to identify some of the items in the cottage.

Asimov sees the chair and what it is made out of. He asks if the cottage owner was a dentist and wonders if the mushrooms are to be found might they be among the bric-a-brac on the shelf.

You’ve been in the cabin for a couple of minutes and have yet to find the mushrooms. Zeoll is able to identify a number of plant based ingredients. He notices skunk-cabbage, sweetroot, swamp alder, masterwort, dragon root, fairywand, crawleyroot, lady-slipper, wild yam, feverweed, bleeding heart, boneset, sweetgum, balm buds, blue skullcap, liferoot, hemlock, itchweed, and swamp haw among others. (OOC: all these plants can grow in swamps IRL)

SteveM - Elron | AC 21, HP 23/24
Wednesday October 7th, 2020 9:54:08 AM
"Chicken foot," Elron says. "What you called crawleyroot -- that's a good name, I like it -- but it's chicken foot. Gramma Winnie use to make me drink chicken foot tea when I was sick. Puts you to sleep, tastes like fertilizer." Realizing he just said he knows what fertilizer tastes like, Elron adds, "Don't ask."

"If'n we're gonna find mushrooms, we're gonna haf'ta start lookin' in things. Or we could go find th'owner o' this place and ask, if you're worried 'bout ransackin' someone's home." Tellingly, Elron has not started ransackin' himself yet.

Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant (Kim) AC 17 Touch 13 FF14 HP 22/22 d20+4=17 ;
Wednesday October 7th, 2020 1:25:21 PM

"You are right on that," Mundhildur says as she looks at the figure on the chair.

"I'm fine with ransackin' what looks to be a place perhaps abandoned a bit ago?" Mundhildur's statement ends on a question. But she begins to open jars - replacing each lid after looking inside unless she sees something that looks like the mushrooms they seek. She is very neat in her ransacking style.

Honor Bright (Kathy)
Wednesday October 7th, 2020 1:28:02 PM
"But--" Honor turns in a full circle, looking about the little cottage. "But--I mean, I'm no tracker, but it doesn't look like anybody's been in here in months. Maybe years. Why would our mushrooms be in here? It doesn't make any sense."

She frowns at the suspiciously demon-y cauldron. "Anyway, it looks like whoever lived here wasn't a very nice person. We should move on."

Zeoll the Greensinger | AC15, 16hp | Cayzle d20+6=19 ;
Wednesday October 7th, 2020 5:45:47 PM

Zeoill agrees. "Surrely frresh mushrrooms would be betterr? You arre rright, Honorr. Let us continue ourr searrch in a betterr locale."

"But beforre that, one morre check forr magic."

The old taur casts Detect Magic and looks the cottage over.

He prays and checks things out. Spellcraft 19

Asimov | Hugh | AC 15/12/13 HP 21/21
Thursday October 8th, 2020 12:59:23 AM
Asimov looks at Munhildur starting to go through the curios on the shelves, shrugs and starts going through things himself.

(OOC: Take 20 on Perception check; 26)

To Honor he asks, "Has this place really been abandoned for years or was it only made to look like it was? The footprints we were tracking did lead here after all and we had reason to believe those same footprints were responsible for the missing mushroom caps."

Petty DM Hugh - "I'm fine with ransackin' what looks to be a place perhaps abandoned a bit ago?" d20+3=10 ; d20+2=5 ; d20+2=16 ; d20+6=19 ; d8+1=7 ; d20+2=10 ;
Thursday October 8th, 2020 2:10:45 AM
Elron tells a tail about his past with crawleyroot but under the name chicken foot. He suggests to start actually ransackin’ to find the mushrooms

Munhildur agrees and starts opening jars on the shelf seeking the mushrooms
Honor turns in a full circle asking why the mushrooms would be in a long abandoned cottage and suggests moving on as whoever lived there wasn’t very nice and that they should move on.

Zeoll agrees about moving on and goes to check for magic.
Asimov shrugs and starts going through things himself. He suggests the cottage may just look like it is abandoned.
As Munhildur and Asimov start picking through the shelves and Zeoll casts his spell several things start happening.

A tiny taxidermied bat on the shelf by Munhildur flies off and attacks the giantess. (10 vs AC; miss)

A Voodoo doll stands up from the floor and starts attacking Asimov (5 vs AC; miss)

A stuffed cat near the chair starts attacking Elron (16 vs AC; miss)

The cauldron moves forward and attacks Zeoll (19 vs AC; 7 damage; 10 vs CMD to grapple = fail) actually biting the taur with the wide mouth. It tries to start a grapple but isn’t able to.

Taxidermied Bat: unharmed
Voodoo Doll: unharmed
Stuffed Cat: unharmed
Cauldron: unharmed

map

Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant (Kim) AC 17 Touch 13 FF14 HP 22/22 d20+7=27 ; d20+7=11 ; d20+7=17 ; d20+3=20 ; d6+3=9 ; d6+3=5 ;
Thursday October 8th, 2020 2:20:16 AM

Two slam attacks vs bat. Nat 20 (w/11 followup), and 17. Accidental d20+3. Dam 9, 5, total 14 vs bat. "Dangerous shelves."

Zeoll the Greensinger | AC15, 16hp | Cayzle
Thursday October 8th, 2020 6:30:10 AM

Zeoll starts an inspiring song (everybody gets +1 to attacks and damage). He takes a five ft step back and gets out his rope.

Honor Bright (Kathy) d20+8=21 ; d8=8 ;
Thursday October 8th, 2020 2:45:04 PM
"What in Pantheon's name--?"

Honor draws Virtue, takes a step forward, and attacks the cauldron. [Hit AC 21 for 12 damage]

SteveM - Elron | AC 21 (19 in rage), HP 23/24 d20+2=15 ; d20+2=6 ; d4+2=4 ; d4+2=6 ;
Thursday October 8th, 2020 3:52:05 PM
Elron doesn't take kindly to being attacked by a toy, and lays into the fake furball.

=====
Rage (free action) 1/6
Flurry of blows:
AC 15 for 4
AC 6 for 6

Asimov | Hugh | AC 15/12/13 HP 21/21 d20+4=23 ; d3+1=4 ;
Friday October 9th, 2020 2:15:13 AM
Asimov takes a 5 foot step away from the Voodoo doll and fires off a round from his corrosive pistol at it.

(23 vs touch; 4 acid damage)

Devices Prepared:
0th: compass(know direction), corrosive pistol(acid splash), magic detector(detect magic)
1st: medi-haler light (cure light wounds), medi-haler light (cure light wounds), wrist rockets (magic missile) - cast

Petty DM Hugh - "Dangerous shelves." d20+2=3 ; d3=2 ; d20+4=12 ; d20+6=7 ;
Friday October 9th, 2020 2:41:16 AM
Munhildur lays into the Bat with 2 slams crushing it beyond recognition.

Zeoll starts singing, taking a five foot step and getting out his rope.

Honor draws virtue, takes a step forward and attacks the Cauldron but her attack doesn’t do the normal damage. (Know Arcana DC 12 Highlight to display spoiler: {Hardness 5})

Elron lays into the fake furball hitting once.

Asimov takes a 5 foot step away from the Voodoo doll and fires off a round from his corrosive pistol, hitting it with a glob of acid nearly as big as the doll is.

The cat continues to try to slam Elron but misses (3 vs AC)

The voodoo doll charges Honor provoking AOOs from Zeoll and Honor (12 vs AC; miss)

The cauldron attacks Honor (7 vs AC; miss)

Bat - destroyed
Cat - 4 damage
Cauldron - 7 damage
Voodoo Doll - 4 damage

map

Zeoll the Greensinger | AC15, 16hp | Cayzle d20+2=4 ; d20=10 ; d4+1=2 ; d20+2=19 ;
Friday October 9th, 2020 10:44:13 AM

Know Arcana check: 4

AoO paw swipe at the voodoo doll: hits AC10 for 2 damage.

Zeoll backs up out of cauldron range and casts his Animate Rope. He tosses it at the cauldron, ordering it to entangle the metal monster. Ranged touch attack hits AC19. The cauldron must make a DC15 reflex save or be entangled.

Zeoll continues to sing!

Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant (Kim) AC 17 Touch 13 FF14 HP 22/22 d20+7=23 ; d20+7=8 ; d6+4=10 ;
Friday October 9th, 2020 11:53:14 AM

Mundhi does not like the assembled bag of sticks and goo that is attacking Honor. She slams it once (AC 24) for 10 hp damage. When she tries to smash it again, her footing goes wrong (nat 1), and she has to spend the time regaining her balance. "Oops."

SteveM - Elron | AC 21 (19 in rage), HP 23/24 d20+3=15 ; d20+3=12 ; d4+3=7 ; d4+3=5 ;
Friday October 9th, 2020 1:37:46 PM
Elron continues whappin' at the stuffed cat. "I do, I say, I do believe this is more fun than those scarecrows would'a been."

Hits AC 15 for 7
Hits AC 12 for 5
=====
Rage 2/6

Honor Bright (Kathy) d20+6=25 ; d8=5 ; d20+6=17 ; d8=7 ;
Friday October 9th, 2020 2:45:22 PM
When the voodoo doll charges, Honor takes her AoO, hitting AC 25 for 9 damage.

Then she turns her attention back to the cauldron, hitting AC 17 for 11 damage.

"Well, all right, not demons, but a cauldron with demons on it. That's almost as good, right?"

Asimov | Hugh | AC 15/12/13 HP 21/21 d20=20 ; d20=10 ; d3+1=2 ;
Sunday October 11th, 2020 11:14:47 PM
Asimov shoots a round from his corrosive pistol at the cauldron (20 vs Touch; 10 to confirm crit = no crit; 2 acid damage)

Asimov says to Honor, "eh, close enough"

Petty DM Hugh - Well, all right, not demons, but a cauldron with demons on it. That's almost as good, right? d20=2 ; d20+4=5 ;
Monday October 12th, 2020 12:41:56 AM
Zeoll’s paw swipe AOO doesn’t land against the doll. His animated rope hits the Cauldron and the Cauldron gets entangled.

Munhildur slams the Cauldron once for 5 damage.

Elron continues to whap the stuffed cat finishing it off.

Honor destroys the Voodoo Doll with Virtue before turning her attention to the Cauldron dealing 6 damage.

Asimov hits the Cauldron with a round from the corrosive pistol

The Cauldron tries to bite Honor but misses.

Bat - destroyed
Cat - destroyed
Cauldron - 20 damage; entangled - AC 12
Voodoo Doll - destroyed

map

Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant (Kim) AC 17 Touch 13 FF14 HP 22/22 d20+8=27 ; d20+8=20 ; d6+4=6 ; d6+4=8 ;
Monday October 12th, 2020 2:13:31 AM

Mundhi slams the cauldron twice, for net 1+3=4 hp damage (rolled 6, 8 dam, less 5 damage resistance per slam...) "Clang!" she answers the cauldron's sound.

Honor Bright (Kathy) d20+8=17 ; d8=8 ;
Monday October 12th, 2020 12:07:21 PM
Honor steps over to flank the cauldron with Mundhildur.

"Die, foul fiend....cauldron.....thing!"

She attacks, hitting AC 17 for 12 damage.

SteveM - Elron | AC 21 (19 in rage), HP 23/24 d20+3=18 ; d20+3=22 ; d4+3=4 ; d4+3=6 ;
Monday October 12th, 2020 3:30:06 PM
Elron happily changes targets from the small softish one to the large clanging one.

Attacking cauldron:
AC 18 for 4 points
AC 22 for 6 points
Rage 3/6

Zeoll the Greensinger | AC15, 16hp | Cayzle d20=4 ; d20-5=5 ; d20-5=13 ; d4+1=2 ;
Monday October 12th, 2020 11:58:46 PM

Zeoll strikes at the cauldron with his spear and two paws as he sings. [Paws are at -5 as secondary attacks made as part of a full attack with a manufactured weapon.]

Misses vs AC4 and AC5.

A paw hits AC13 for 2 damage! That might hit the entangled cauldron!

Asimov | Hugh | AC 15/12/13 HP 21/21 d20=19 ; d3+1=4 ;
Tuesday October 13th, 2020 1:40:05 AM
19 vs Touch ; 4 acid damage

Asimov fires off another corrosive round at the cauldron hitting it for 4 acid damage.

Petty DM Hugh - "Die, foul fiend....cauldron.....thing!"
Tuesday October 13th, 2020 1:45:46 AM
Mundhildur gets in two slams at the cauldron resulting in a clang as the attacks are a little blunted by the cauldron.

Honor flanks the cauldron with Munhildur.

Elron, Zeoll and Asimov each take their turn attacking the Cauldron but Honor has already dispatched it.

Combat is over and you are still in the cottage that apparently had guards set to attack when anyone disturbed anything. What now?

Zeoll the Greensinger | AC15, 16hp | Cayzle
Tuesday October 13th, 2020 6:02:25 AM
Zeoll finishes his magical inspection of the place.

SteveM - Elron | AC 21 (19 in rage), HP 23/24 d20+11=30 ;
Tuesday October 13th, 2020 12:48:35 PM
Elron rests a bit.

Although he realizes several of the others didn't seem yto think there was much point in searching the place, he's game for doing so. (Perception = 30 looking for mushrooms)

Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant (Kim) AC 17 Touch 13 FF14 HP 22/22 d20+4=12 ;
Tuesday October 13th, 2020 1:05:56 PM

"Huh. Good fighting everyone," Mundhildur says. "Asimov - can you figure out any of these things in jars and bottles and such? I don't see any purple mushrooms yet."

She renews her search. Perception 12.

Honor Bright (Kathy) d20+3=12 ;
Tuesday October 13th, 2020 1:39:40 PM
Honor sheathes Virtue. Since her companions are busy in the cottage, she goes to the door to look and listen outside, to see if perhaps the noise attracted anything. [Perception 12]

Asimov | Hugh | AC 15/12/13 HP 21/21 d20+6=9 ;
Wednesday October 14th, 2020 12:46:46 AM
Perception : 9

Asimov joins in the search. He is a little distracted by the aftermath of the Cauldron battle

Petty DM Hugh - I don't see any purple mushrooms yet.
Wednesday October 14th, 2020 3:52:45 AM
Zeoll finishes his magical inspection of the cottage. His magical sensor reveals a few traces of previously present magical auras, but the only magic item that remains here is a disgusting, shrunken head.
Elron rests a bit before joining the search for the mushrooms.
Munhildur also resumes her search, she asks Asimov if he can figure out what the contents of the bottles were.
Honor sheathes Virtue and then goes to the door in case the commotion drew any visitors.

Asimov also resumes his search but he is distracted and not able to help Munhildur much.

It is Elron who ultimately makes the discovery of the Purple mushrooms. He finds them among the bric-a-brac.

DC 14 Appraise Check Highlight to display spoiler: {You find statuettes and rare stones worth 30 gp}

What do you want to do now?

Zeoll the Greensinger | AC15, 16hp | Cayzle
Wednesday October 14th, 2020 5:58:51 AM
"Let's camp out forr the night in the clearring. I'm tirred."

Honor Bright (Kathy)
Wednesday October 14th, 2020 12:57:02 PM
"I don't love the idea of camping next to those scarecrows," Honor says.

But, they're in a swamp, and their options are limited, so in the end, Honor agrees and helps set up camp.

SteveM - Elron | AC 21 (19 in rage), HP 23/24
Wednesday October 14th, 2020 2:40:02 PM
"Miss Honuh, I will gladly remove the scarecrows if they bother you. But at least this is a dry spot." Elron ponders the appropriate method of removing the scarecrows and decides that having a small fire on hand would help.

Zeoll the Greensinger | AC15, 16hp | Cayzle d20+1=6 ;
Wednesday October 14th, 2020 8:37:48 PM
Untrained Appraise at +1: no idea!

Asimov | Hugh | AC 15/12/13 HP 21/21 d20+8=21 ;
Thursday October 15th, 2020 2:16:04 AM
(Appraise: 21)

Asimov sifts through the items in the cabin, "Hey guys I think these statuettes and stones are worth 30 gold. I'm claiming them for the group as treasure. I also think we should wrap that magical shrunken head in something and take it with us. Anyone got a sack or something?"

Asimov says, "I guess we are camping outside. I hope whoever setup the Cauldron, the bat, the cat and the doll doesn't return while we are encamped in their clearing."

Petty DM Hugh - "Let's camp out forr the night in the clearring. I'm tirred."
Thursday October 15th, 2020 2:22:42 AM
Zeoll suggests they camp the night in the clearing.

Honor isn't thrilled with the idea of sleeping near the scarecrows but their options are limited.

Elron removes the scarecrows in order to make Honor feel better

Asimov finds a small treasure trove of statuettes and rare gems worth some gold, he raises the possibility of the master of the cabin returning but his concerns prove unfounded.

The night passes without incident. No one returns to the cabin and you can remove the scarecrows with a little fire.

The next morning things are still overcast but at least it isn't night any longer. Anything else you want to do in the clearing? Does anyone help Asimov in taking the shrunken head?

Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant (Kim) AC 17 Touch 13 FF14 HP 22/22
Thursday October 15th, 2020 8:45:40 AM

"Elron - you're better than a ferret. You found the second ingredient!"

Mundhildur produces a sack for Asimov. "But I'm not carrying that head. The sack is now yours."

Aside from her turn on watch, the tall woman sleeps soundly, and awakens early. She takes advantage of the scarecrows to fuel the breakfast fire, and cooks up the rest of the eggs, trying to hide that part of the preparations from Elron, as she mixes them in with vegetables and herbs.

As she breakfasts with her companions, she says, "Well, now, we get out of this marsh and continue around the mountains, right?"

Honor Bright (Kathy)
Thursday October 15th, 2020 2:01:44 PM
Honor wants no part of the shrunken head.

"Yes," she replies to Mundhildur. "Fowlsfield Keep is next, at the foot of the mountains east of here. Are we ready to head that way?"

Zeoll the Greensinger | AC15, 16hp | Cayzle
Thursday October 15th, 2020 5:46:34 PM

"I'll carrry it," says Zeoll. He has never been one to flinch from such.

SteveM - Elron | AC 21 (19 in rage), HP 23/24
Thursday October 15th, 2020 8:34:00 PM
"Fowlsfield Keep. Sounds . . . homey."

Asimov | Hugh | AC 15/12/13 HP 21/21
Friday October 16th, 2020 5:35:49 AM
Asimov says, "I'm okay with you carrying the gross, magic, shrunken head in the sack" to Zeoll.

"I figure that is something you don't see everyday and its magical so maybe the shrunken head is worth something to the right collector or it does something cool considering it is magic.

Petty DM Hugh - "Well, now, we get out of this marsh and continue around the mountains, right?
Friday October 16th, 2020 5:42:00 AM
Munhildur praises Elron and gives Asimov a sack. She wakens early and cooks breakfast pointing out their next destination.

Honor wants no part of the shrunken head and agrees about the destination, asking if they are ready to continue.

Zeoll volunteers to carry the head.

Elron remarks about the keep

Asimov explains his rationale for taking the shrunken head.

You are able to get out of the swamp without incident and in a few short hours you are reunited with the animals and cart.

(OOC: After this scene you should be at 3,300 xp and 3rd level; DM Kathy can take over in the next post)

Mundhildur Karadottir (new character sheet), Jotun singing giant, large (Kim) AC 16 Touch 12 FF14 HP 32/32
Saturday October 17th, 2020 4:56:32 AM

"All right, Zeoll bard - it's time for a song. Include pumpkins, scarecrows, a big tree, a fox, poor sprites, lights in the swamp, and... the hunt for a cure," Mundhildur challenges the bard. Meanwhile, she starts thinking of how to compose such a song.

As they walk along, the Jotun lass begins to seem taller, and taller. [Size: from medium - 7'4", 372 lbs, to large - 10'5", 1,026 lbs]

Asimov | Hugh | AC 15/12/13 HP 29/29 d20+11=30 ;
Monday October 19th, 2020 4:52:57 AM
Asimov says to Munhildur, "Did you get taller?"

When they get back to the cart and animals, Asimov tinkers with the bear trap they got from the hunters.

(Craft Trap: 30 - I want to add a length of chain to the bear trap).
He then attaches some gears to it and it moves around on its own as if animated by animate object spell

Asimov says, "Look what I figured out to do? I'm gonna call him chompy. Though he can only be animated in this way for about 3 minutes at a time."

Zeoll the Greensinger | AC15, 16hp | Cayzle
Monday October 19th, 2020 9:57:27 AM

Zeoll gathers berries, planning to cast Goodberry in the evenings.

[Sheet is up to date.]

Mundhildur Karadottir (new character sheet), Jotun singing giant, large (Kim) AC 16 Touch 12 FF14 HP 32/32
Monday October 19th, 2020 12:38:52 PM

"Yes, Asimov, yes I did. Now, watch this." Mundhildur shrinks from her new stature back down to her former stature, losing about three feet in height. "See, it's still me. However, I can see just a bit farther, it seems, at my new height. It's something some of us Jotunar go through as we progress in life. Now, back up I grow!" and she does, to ten feet five inches.

"And 'Chompy' is a good name for that thingamajig."

Fowlsfield Keep

DM Kathy
Monday October 19th, 2020 1:11:07 PM
After your experiences in the swamp, you feel somehow stronger, hardier, more skilled. Mundhildur can grow, and Asimov has a nifty new trick with the bear trap.

Your final ingredient is berries from the silverberry vine, which can be found at Fowlsfield Keep. You start heading that direction.

You have to camp alongside the road, which proves to be uneventful. You reach the keep in the early afternoon. An overgrown path leads from the main road toward the keep. It is a blustery day; the long grasses wave and rustle around you as you make your way up the small rise.

The path leads between a couple of large objects. When you get closer, you realize that they are statues--or rather, what remains of statues. Vines and creepers wrap around the old stone of the statues, their leaves and tendrils dancing in the wind. The statue on the right of the path has been completely pulled apart. You can see a bit of the base remaining, and here and there, you see remnants of the statue--a foot, part of an arm, some texture that might be hair. The statue to the left is still standing, although it's in rough shape. It depicts a dwarf holding aloft a great hammer.

[ Here is a map template I'll be using to make combat maps. I tried to copy peoples' character pictures, but for the most part, I didn't have permission and couldn't do it. I tried to find suitable images on the web. Asimov is the one with the cloud of smoke behind him; Mundhildur is the pale one with the staff. I think the others will be self-explanatory. If you don't like your image, you should have edit permissions to replace it, but you'll need to do it pretty soon.]

Mundhildur Karadottir (new character sheet), Jotun singing giant, large (Kim) AC 16 Touch 12 FF14 HP 32/32
Monday October 19th, 2020 5:08:02 PM

Mundhi kneels down to take a closer look at the fallen, broken statue. She begins to put the different bits in order, to result in a rough re-assembly of the statue, lying prone. She wants to see who it represented. "Who would have been so upset with a statue as to smash it to pieces?" she wonders aloud.

Zeoll the Greensinger | AC15, 16hp | Cayzle 6d4=17 ; d20+3=16 ; d20+11=15 ; d20+10=30 ;
Monday October 19th, 2020 7:39:35 PM
Camping on the roadside, three castings of Goodberries: 17 berries!

The next day, Zeoll is sad to see the destruction of art. He tries to recall the historical significance of these statues, and this place, saying a little prayer for guidance.

Guided Know History 16

He casts around, looking for places that the desired berries would grow.

Guided Know Nature 15

And he sniffs around, looking for signs of monster, man, or beast.

Guided Survival 30

SteveM - Elron | AC 21 (19 in rage), HP 23/24
Monday October 19th, 2020 9:37:29 PM
"Can't say that I evah heard of a fowl dwarf." Elron observes. "Bet that hammer makes a good thwack, though."

A bit slow on the uptake this week, I'm afraid. I'll try to catch up.

Honor Bright (Kathy)
Monday October 19th, 2020 11:54:46 PM
Honor smiles. "Well, as long as he doesn't try to thwack us."

Asimov | Hugh | AC 15/12/13 HP 29/29 d20+8=9 ; d20+8=13 ; d20+8=24 ;
Tuesday October 20th, 2020 1:34:34 AM
Asimov asks, "I could probably cause that statue to be able to thwack things should my ability to create windup creations like Chompy improve. Right now I can only make small ones though."

(OOC: what size are the pieces of the smashed statue? Are any considered size small?)

Know Engineering: 9
Know Geography: 13
Know History: 24

DM Kathy d20+7=21 ; d4=1 ; d20+7=16 ; d4=3 ;
Tuesday October 20th, 2020 1:54:48 PM
You examine the statues. Mundhildur begins trying to put the crumbled statue back together, which is slow going. Some of the pieces are very small. Asimov nots that there are many that are small in size; in fact, some are tiny and smaller.

Elron admires the stone thwacking hammer, which Honor just hopes won't be used on the party.

Zeoll tries to learn more about the statues' historical significance, but alas, your DM was not given that information. Zeoll does notice, however, that some of the leaves and tendrils of the vines are whipping around more than can be explained by the wind. He manages to shout a warning before they detach themselves from the statues, so the party isn't caught flat-footed when they attack!

The first plant-creature attacks Elron, and hits! Elron takes 1 point of damage, and must succeed at a DC 12 Fort save or become nauseated.

The second plant-creature attacks Mundhildur, and also hits! Mundhildur takes 3 damage, and must succeed at a DC 12 Fort save or become nauseated.

And the map. The circles represent the statues; the yellow area is the path. Everybody should have edit access; please move your own character and place any effects you create.

SteveM - Elron | AC 21 (19 in rage), HP 23/24 d20+5=22 ; d20+1=20 ; d20+1=7 ; d4+2=3 ; d4+2=6 ;
Tuesday October 20th, 2020 10:36:08 PM
(Save = 22, and Elron will be DR 1/-- as soon as I update the sheet)

Elron don't take well to plants that think he's food. He moves next to and attacks the nearest of the plants.

AC 20 for 3 damage
AC 7 for 6 damage
Rage 1/8

Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant, large (Kim) AC 16 Touch 12 FF14 HP 29/32 d20+7=9 ;
Tuesday October 20th, 2020 11:15:05 PM

What sort of sticky substance is that on those leaves...? ur... urr... urp... get away! Mundhildur stumbles away from the statues and flagellating plants, back toward the road. She gets a bit out of range (perhaps) of the plants, and leans down hands on knees, and tries to hold back the late afternoon snack of bread, cheese and tomatoes. Her mouth starts salivating heavily. She moved 30 feet.
=======
Fort save: 9/12 - fail

Asimov | Hugh | AC 15/12/13 HP 29/29 2d4+2=6 ;
Wednesday October 21st, 2020 12:22:38 AM
If the bear trap is anywhere near Asimov he moves to where it is and starts his full round action to turn the bear trap into chompy (will complete next round) otherwise he fires off wrist rockets at the nearest plant. (6 force damage)

Devices Prepared:
0th: corrosive pistol (acid splash), compass (know direction), freeze ray (ray of frost), lesser temporary health improvement capsule (virtue)
1st: wrist rockets - x, medihaler light (CLW), medihaler light (CLW), medihaler light (CLW)

Zeoll the Greensinger | AC15, 16hp | Cayzle
Wednesday October 21st, 2020 10:36:34 AM

Zeoll begins his bardic performance to give everybody a +1 to attack and damage.

He steps back (moved on map), drawing a spear as he does so.

Honor Bright (Kathy) [AC 19; HP 24/24] d20+8=21 ; d8=2 ;
Wednesday October 21st, 2020 1:09:52 PM
As Mundhildur staggers back, Honor steps forward, drawing Virtue. "Die, treacherous....whatever you are!" [Hit AC 21 for 6 damage.]

DM Kathy d20+7=9 ; d20+7=10 ; d20+7=15 ; d20+7=25 ; d4=4 ; d20+7=10 ; d20+7=15 ; d20+7=24 ; d20+7=8 ; d4=2 ;
Wednesday October 21st, 2020 1:27:43 PM
Elron knows that he should eat plants, not the other way around! He swings at the creature twice, connecting once.

Mundhildur is nauseated. She staggers back to the road. Interestingly, the creature does not take an Attack of Opportunity.

Asimov is able to reach Chompy [the wagons are there; I just didn't bother to map them]. He begins his activation process.

Zeoll moves back, drawing his spear, and begins singing to inspire the group.

Honor steps up, draws Virtue, and attacks, striking the plant creature and doing damage.

More plant-creatures tear themselves from the statues and advance! Your DM needs to read the encounter better!

Knowledge: Nature DC 12 Highlight to display spoiler: {These creatures are called weedwhips.}

Two creatures attack Elron! One had to move, but the other gets its full attack! All three of its attacks miss, but the "new" plant creature hits! Elron takes 4 points of damage and must succeed at a DC 12 Fortitude save or become nauseated for a round.

Two creatures attack Honor! As with Elron, one had to move, but the other gets its full attack! It hits once! Honor takes 2 damage and must succeed at a DC 12 Fortitude save or become nauseated for a round.

The last creature is coming toward Zeoll! But it's a plant, so it doesn't move very fast.

Mundhildur is feeling better, but she and Elron need to make an additional DC 12 Fortitude save against the poison. This is in addition to the new save Elron has to make for being hit this round.

And the map.

SteveM - Elron | AC 21 (19 in rage), HP 23/24 d20+5=22 ; d20+5=20 ; d20+3=21 ; d20+3=11 ; d4+2=5 ; d4+2=4 ;
Wednesday October 21st, 2020 10:32:09 PM
(Saves = 22, 20)

Elron continues to attack the nearest plant. "I don't like these things. I get the feelin' they're not very friendly."

Hits AC 21 for 5 damage
Hits AC 11 for 4 damage
Rage 2/8

Asimov | Hugh | AC 15/12/13 HP 29/29 d20+3=18 ; d3=1 ; d20+3=11 ;
Thursday October 22nd, 2020 12:49:23 AM
Asimov completes putting gears on Chompy pointing the animated bear trap with chain at the nearest plant creature.

"Get 'em Chompy!" the technomancer calls out as he puts a little bit of distance between himself and the nearest plant monster.

Chompy slams into the nearest plant monster (18 vs AC; 1 damage) (11 vs AC; miss?)

Chompy Stats :
AC 16 Touch 12 FF 15
HP 21
Speed 20 ft
Hardness 5
Immune: construct traits
Fort +0, Ref +1, Will -5
2 slams +3 (1d3)

Devices Prepared:
0th: corrosive pistol (acid splash), compass (know direction), freeze ray (ray of frost), lesser temporary health improvement capsule (virtue)
1st: wrist rockets (magic missile), medihaler light (CLW), medihaler light (CLW), medihaler light (CLW)

Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant, large (Kim) AC 16 Touch 12 FF14 HP 29/32 d20+7=10 ;
Thursday October 22nd, 2020 2:34:15 PM
Mundi's nausea leads to upchucking. Not a lot, but enough. She tries to clear her mouth. Taking out her waterskin, she leans her head back, and squirts water in from a few inches away from her mouth. She rinses her mouth, spits, then looks back at the approaching plant things.

Honor Bright (Kathy) [AC 19; HP 22/24] d20+8=25 ; d8=2 ; d20+8=25
Thursday October 22nd, 2020 2:45:40 PM
Honor is unaffected by the poison [Fort save 25]. She continues attacking the same plant-creature. [Hit AC 25 for 6 damage.]

DM Kathy d20+7=16 ; d20+7=23 ; d20+7=20 ; d20+7=15 ; d20+7=15 ; d20+7=11 ; d4=2 ; d4=2 ; d20+7=18 ; d20+7=27 ; d20+7=18 ; d20+7=9 ; d20+7=21 ; d4=2 ; d4=4 ; d20+7=18 ; d4=4 ;
Thursday October 22nd, 2020 2:54:54 PM
Elron again attacks twice, and again hits once.

Asimov finishes his spell, and Chompy attacks! The animated trap does a little damage.

Mundhildur is still overwhelmed by the poison.

Honor attacks again, and again does damage.

The plants attack! Elron is targeted by the two closest to him. He is hit twice, for a total of 4 damage. He must make two Fortitude saves, DC 12, or become nauseated for a round.

The plant Honor has been hacking is pretty hurt, so it takes a move action to dig itself partly into the ground. Now it has some cover from her attacks. But it only gets one attack this round, which it misses. Her other opponent, however, gets its full three attacks! Honor his hit twice, for 6 damage, and must make 2 Fortitude saves, DC 12, or become nauseated for a round.

The last plant arrives at Zeoll and attacks! Zeoll is hit for 4 damage, and must make a DC 12 Fort save or become nauseated for a round.

In addition, Elron, Mundhildur, and Honor each need to make a DC 12 Fort save for the poison already in their system. I'm going to need a spreadsheet for this, aren't I?

Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant, large (Kim) AC 16 Touch 12 FF14 HP 29/32 d20+7=27 ; d20+6=16 ; d8+3=11 ;
Thursday October 22nd, 2020 6:12:12 PM

Purging seems to have helped Mundhildur. The poison no longer has any apparent effect (Fort save 27 - nat 20). She turns to battle these pernicious weeds. She moves to e5, and attacks the plant at d4. She hits AC 16 for 11 hp damage.

SteveM - Elron | AC 21 (19 in rage), HP 21/24 d20+5=24 ; d20+5=12 ; d20+5=25 ; d20+3=19 ; d20+3=4 ; d4+2=5 ;
Thursday October 22nd, 2020 10:02:42 PM
(Saves = 24, 12, 25)

Elron keeps swinging at the nearest plants.

===
Hit AC 19 for 5
Hit AC 4 for --
Rage 3/8

Zeoll the Greensinger | AC15, 12/16hp | Cayzle d20+3=12 d20+1=10 d20-4=1 d20-4=12 d4+1=2
Thursday October 22nd, 2020 11:55:53 PM
Zeoll barely manages to hold onto his cookies, but hold he does!

Still singing, he stabs with his spear, missing. He lashes out with paws, missing once and hitting AC12 for 2 damage.

Asimov | Hugh | AC 15/12/13 HP 29/29 d20+3=19 ; d3=3 ; d20+3=12 ; 2d4+2=5 ;
Friday October 23rd, 2020 12:50:29 AM
Asimov says, "Keep attacking Chompy!"

(19 vs AC; 3 damage)
(12 vs AC; miss?)

Asimov fires wrist rockets at the same plant creature that Chompy is working on (5 force damage)

Honor Bright (Kathy) [AC 19; HP 16/24] d20+8=12 ; d20+8=10 ; d20+8=15 ;
Friday October 23rd, 2020 2:00:22 PM
Honor wants to finish off this plant, but instead she drops to one knee, choking and retching.

DM Kathy d20+7=20 ; d4=4 ; d20+7=18 ; d4=4 ; d20+7=20 ; d20+7=11 ; d20+7=23 ; d20+7=25 ; d20+7=20 ; d20+7=22 ; d4=3 ; d4=2 ; d4=2 ; d4=1 ; d4=4 ; d20+7=17 ; d20+7=19 ; d20+7=17 ; d4=3 ; d4=4 ; d4=4 ;
Friday October 23rd, 2020 2:13:50 PM
Mundhildur moves up and attacks, hitting and badly damaging the plant creature.

Elron continues attacking, and now his opponent is also looking pretty ragged.

Zeoll attacks his foe, but misses.

Asimov and Chompy keep attacking, each hitting once.

Honor is overcome by the poison.

Elron's opponent, feeling threatened, digs itself partly into the ground. Now it has cover. It needed to use a move action to do that, so it only gets one attack, which hits. Elron takes 4 damage and must succeed at a DC 12 Fort save or be nauseated for a round.

Mundhildur's opponent likewise digs itself partly into the ground to get some cover. Its one attack hits. Mundhildur takes 4 damage and must succeed at a DC 12 Fort save or be nauseated for a round.

Seeing their advantage, Honor's opponents attack her! Honor his hit 5 times for 12 damage, and needs to make 5 Fortitude saves.

Zeoll's opponent attacks him, hitting 3 times! Zeoll takes 11 damage, and must make 3 DC 12 Fortitude saves.

Saves needed for ongoing poison effects (in addition to the ones listed above):
Elron 2
Honor 2
Mundhildur 1
Zeoll 1

And the map.

Zeoll the Greensinger | AC15, 1/16hp | Cayzle d20+3=4 ; d20+3=6 ; d20+3=9 ; d20+3=9 ;
Friday October 23rd, 2020 2:28:34 PM

I need to make four saves? OK. Four fails! That's a record!

Zeoll has a move action available while barfing, so he moves 40 ft away. And he's not singing!

Alls he's got is a move action. If he can withdraw, great! If he can't, his one hit point is screaming in terror!

Yes, the hit point is screaming in terror. Zeoll would NEVER scream in terror ...

...

...

... while barfing.

SteveM - Elron | AC 21 (19 in rage), HP 30/36 d20+7=8 ; d10=2 ; d20+7=15 ; d20+7=25 ; d20+3=16 ;
Friday October 23rd, 2020 8:59:07 PM
(Saves: 8, 15, 25 -- first one misses; know nature = 16)

Well, but I finally worked on Elron's character sheet a bit so. . . Max HP goes from 24 to 36. His fortitude saves are at +7, not +5, and his attacks will be at a higher to hit while he finesses his weapons. . . So I guess he spends the round nauseated. But he can try that know nature check now, too.

Elron moves five feet back and heroically tries to continue attacking the plants, but his stomach just isn't into it right now. "Wow, so THESE are weedwhips," Elron belatedly recognizes them. "Still don' like 'em."

Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant, large (Kim) AC 16 Touch 12 FF14 HP 25/32 d20=3 ; d20+7=26 ;
Saturday October 24th, 2020 6:53:54 PM

Mundhildur, struck again, becomes nauseated (d20=3, then +7=10, fail). However, the remnants of the previous strike are gone (26). She moves away from the noxious weed to H9.

Asimov | Hugh | AC 15/12/13 HP 29/29 d20+3=16 ; d20+3=7 ; d3=2 ; d8+3=6 ;
Monday October 26th, 2020 12:52:34 AM
"Keep at it Chompy" Asimov calls as he moves after Zeoll.

(16 vs AC; 2 damage)
(7 vs AC; miss)

Asimov uses a medihaler light on Zeoll. Zeoll heals 6 hp

Honor Bright (Kathy) [AC 19; HP 14/24] d20+8=24 ; d20+8=22 ; d20+8=28 ; d20+8=27 ; d20+8=15 ; d20+8=26 ; d20+8=13 ; d6=1 ; d6=5 ; d6=5 ; d20+7=23 ; d8=1 ;
Monday October 26th, 2020 1:19:43 PM
Miraculously, Honor is not nauseated from the plant creatures' poison. She takes a moment to heal herself [Lay on Hands], then slashes at her damaged opponent. [Hit AC 23 for 4 damage.]

DM Kathy d20+7=8 ; d20+7=9 ; d20+7=13 ; d20+7=19 ; d20+7=22 ; d20+7=23 ; d4=3 ; d4=3 ; d20+7=18 ; d20+7=24 ; d20+7=22 ; d4=1 ; d4=2 ; d20+7=14 ;
Monday October 26th, 2020 2:45:44 PM
Zeoll is very sick. Withdrawal is a full-round action, so you couldn't do that while nauseated. However, you have discovered that these things don't take opportunity attacks; they only seem to attack when they're actually attacking. Zeoll is able to stagger back a few crucial steps.

Elron is likewise incapacitated, although he does finally realize what these things are called.

Mundhildur is also nauseated, although at least previous rounds' poison seems to be gone.

Asimov heales Zeoll, while Chompy attacks!

Honor heals herself, then kills her opponent.

Elron's two opponents attack! Elron is hit twice, for 6 damage and two more DC 12 Fort saves.

Honor is also hit twice, for 3 damage and two more DC 12 Fort saves.

The remaining weedwhip moves up to attack Asimov. Since it had to move, it gets only one attack, which misses.

Saves needed for ongoing poison effects (in addition to the ones listed above):
Elron 1
Honor 5
Mundhildur 1
Zeoll 4

And the map

Zeoll the Greensinger | AC15, 1/16hp | Cayzle d20+3=19 ; d20+3=7 ; d20+3=23 ; d20+3=21 ;
Monday October 26th, 2020 4:42:40 PM
Zeoll makes 3 of 4 saves this time, and moves even more back.

SteveM - Elron | AC 21 (19 in rage), HP 26/36 d20+7=26 ; d20+7=27 ; d20+7=8 ;
Monday October 26th, 2020 7:38:45 PM
(Saves = 26, 27, 8)

Elron would have shrugged off two saves, but not a third. He moves further away -- a comfortable distance he can make without heaving -- not able to do much more right now.

===
Rage 5/8

Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant, large (Kim) AC 16 Touch 12 FF14 HP 25/32 d20+7=16 ; d20+7=21 ; d20+7=25 ; d8+3=8 ; d8+3=10 ;
Monday October 26th, 2020 11:13:11 PM

Mundhildur saves from the nausea, and steps 5 feet forward and with her reach goes Slam! Slam! on the now hapless plant that treated so poorly her singing friend Zeoll. AC 21, 25, for 8+10=18 hp damage. "You leave my friends alone!"

Asimov | Hugh | AC 15/12/13 HP 29/29 d8+3=4 ; d8+3=8 ; d20+3=21 ; d3=1 ; d20+3=21 ; d3=3 ;
Monday October 26th, 2020 11:44:51 PM
Asimov takes a 5 foot step and heals Zeoll again using a second medihaler-light.

(OOC: between the 6 last round and the 8 this round Zeoll should be at 15 hp total

Chompy keeps attacking the plant creature it is fighting (21 vs AC; 1 damage) (21 vs AC; 3 damage)

Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant, large (Kim) AC 16 Touch 12 FF14 HP 25/32 d20+7=20 ;
Tuesday October 27th, 2020 1:11:54 PM

Just saw that Mundhi needed one extra save - she made it.

Honor Bright (Kathy) [AC 19; HP 14/24] d20+8=18 ; d20+8=23 ; d20+8=23 ; d20+8=9 ; d20+8=14 ; d20+8=11 ; d20+8=24 ; d20+7=10 ;
Tuesday October 27th, 2020 3:29:09 PM
Honor makes her saves [used Hero Points], and slashes again at her opponent--but she misses.

DM Kathy d20+7=11 ;
Tuesday October 27th, 2020 3:55:58 PM
Zeoll, still recovering from the poison, moves farther back.

Elron, too, is suffering from the poison, and moves back.

Mundhildur steps forward and kills the plant that had been menacing Zeoll and Asimov!

Asimov heals Zeoll again, while Chompy continues to attack!

Making a heroic effort, Honor manages not to get nauseated. But there the heroism ends, and she misses her attack.

One of Elron's opponents comes after him. However, it was the one that had dug itself into the ground, so it has to un-dig itself, then move, and then it is done.

The other moves over to Honor and Chompy, but that's a double move for it, so it's done.

That leaves one weedwhip that can actually attack this round, but it's hurt and has decided it needs more cover. So it digs itself into the ground, meaning it only gets one attack on Honor, which misses.

Everybody finally has a chance to catch up on past saves:

Zeoll 1
Elron 3
Mundhildur 1
Honor 2

[OOC in case of confusion: to get rid of the poison, you need to make two consecutive saves. So if you make the first one, but fail the second one, you have to start over.]

And the map

SteveM - Elron | AC 21 (19 in rage), HP 26/36 | Fatigued d20+7=8 ; d10=10 ; d3=2 ; d20+7=26 ; d20+7=21 ;
Tuesday October 27th, 2020 7:45:19 PM
(Saves = 8, 26, 21 -- 1 fail -- and yes, I still put the cursor down and click three times rapidly even though I should know by now the screen will shift after each so I click something else)

So, Elron can outpace the plant as long as it digs in -- but can he put that to his advantage? He lets his rage lapse as he ponders this. Even fatigued, he can shuffle a fair bit.

===
Rage 5/8

Zeoll the Greensinger | AC15, 15/16hp | Cayzle d20+3=20 ;
Wednesday October 28th, 2020 12:08:09 AM

With one last save, Zeoll recovers himself. "Thank you, friend Asimov," he gasps.

Zeoll resumes his singing, and makes sure he has a spear in hand.

EVERYBODY GETS THE USUAL +1 TO ATTACKS AND DAMAGE.

Asimov | Hugh | AC 15/12/13 HP 29/29 d20+3=17 ; d3=1 ; d20+3=7 ; d20=8 ; d3+1=2 ;
Wednesday October 28th, 2020 12:27:17 AM
Chompy keeps attacking the plant creature it is fighting (17 vs AC; 1 damage) (7 vs AC; miss)

Asimov fires off a round from his corrosive pistol at the plant (8 vs touch; 2 acid damage if that hits)

Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant, large (Kim) AC 16 Touch 12 FF14 HP 25/32 d20+7=15 ; d20+7=24 ; d8+3=5 ;
Wednesday October 28th, 2020 2:02:38 AM

The tall lady makes her second save versus poison, and throws off the remnants of nausea. Mundhi steps forward five feet, and stabs at the flower at h5 (AC 25), doing 5+1=6 hp damage to it.

[adjusted numbers to reflect Zeoll's inspiring song]

Honor Bright (Kathy) [AC 19; HP 14/24] d20+8=20 ; d20+8=19 ; d20+8=21 ; d8=4 ;
Wednesday October 28th, 2020 12:58:20 PM
Honor shakes the last of the poison and takes a swipe at Chompy's opponent. [Hit AC 21 for 8 damage]

DM Kathy d20+7=8 ; d20+7=21 ; d20+7=15 ; d20+7=12 ; d20+7=11 ; d20+7=17 ; d4=2 ;
Wednesday October 28th, 2020 2:26:36 PM
Elron is still overcome by nausea, but luckily faster than a plant.

Zeoll recovers from his nausea and starts his song again.

Asimov fires at the plant, but misses. Chompy is a bit more successful.

Mundhildur damages another of the plant-creatures.

Honor finishes off the creature that Chompy has been patiently working on. Those paladins, always kill-stealing.

The northern weedwhip gives up on Elron and goes after Honor instead. The southern weedwhip likewise attacks the paladin. Honor takes another hit, for 2 damage, and must make a DC 12 Fortitude save.

Elron is the only one left who still has an ongoing save to make.

And the map.

Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant, large (Kim) AC 16 Touch 12 FF14 HP 25/32 d20+8=13 ; d20+8=22 ; d8+4=9 ;
Wednesday October 28th, 2020 2:58:20 PM
With a 5' step to g7, her long auburn braids swing about as Mundhildur twice slams the weedwhip. The first attack barely brushed the plant causing no harm (AC13), yet the follow-up did better (AC22) for 9hp.

"You should have just stood there looking pretty instead of deciding to attack us."

SteveM - Elron | AC 21 (20 while fatugued), HP 26/36 | Fatigued d20+7=22 ; d20+5=15 ; d4-1=0 ;
Wednesday October 28th, 2020 7:48:49 PM
(Save = 22)

Deciding that he's feeling better, Elron heads back into battle. Of course, he's momentarily fatigued and has to shuffle back to the battle, so he only gets one attack. But it is so much better to have worked that stuff out of his system.

-----
Hits AC 15 for 0 damage (still a mite weakened from his exertions)
Rage 5/8 (inactive)

Asimov | Hugh | AC 15/12/13 HP 29/29 d20+3=18 ; d20+3=11 ; d3=3 ; d20=2 ;
Thursday October 29th, 2020 2:44:06 AM
Asimov calls out, "Chompy, attack the nearest weedwhip"

(18 vs AC; 3 damage) (11 vs AC; miss)

Asimov fires his corrosive pistol at the weedwhip Chompy is attacking (2 vs touch; miss)

Zeoll the Greensinger | AC15, 15/16hp | Cayzle
Thursday October 29th, 2020 6:38:32 AM

As a free action, Zeoll keep singing. (+1/+1 everybody!)

As a move action, Zeoll hustles right up into combat to give flanking bonuses to Honor and Elron. (+2 to hit, you two!)

As a standard action, Zeoll uses full defense to boost his AC by 4 to 19.

Honor Bright (Kathy) [AC 19; HP 12/24] d20+8=28 ; d20+8=16 ; d8=5 ;
Thursday October 29th, 2020 12:19:32 PM
Honor is unaffected by the poison. She swings Virtue at the northernmost weedwhip. [Hit AC 16 for 9 damage.]

DM Kathy
Thursday October 29th, 2020 1:57:47 PM
Mundhildur lands another blow on the weedwhip. It isn't quite enough to kill the plant creature, and Asimov misses with his gadget, but Chompy is equal to the task. The weedwhip falls.

Zeoll keeps singing and moves to flank one of the creatures.

Elron, feeling better, tries an attack but can't muster the strength to do damage.

Honor, however, settles the matter with a final blow from Virtue.

And just like that, the battle is over, barring one more Fort save from Honor.

Zeoll the Greensinger | AC15, 15/16hp | Cayzle d20+8=14 ;
Thursday October 29th, 2020 8:51:29 PM

"Whew, that was a nasty fight!"

[OOC: TWO of my PCs just got trounced by plants in Kathy-run games, LOL!)

Zeoll looks around to see if there are any more lurking.

Perception 14

SteveM - Elron | AC 21 (20 while fatigued), HP 26/36 | Fatigued
Thursday October 29th, 2020 10:44:43 PM
Elron continues knocking the plants about a bit, just to be sure, while explaining to the others --"My fear of roses is a thorny issue. I’m not sure what it stems from, but I’m stuck with it."

Asimov | Hugh | AC 15/12/13 HP 29/29 d20=20 ;
Friday October 30th, 2020 1:13:12 AM
Asimov goes over to Chompy and cleans any plant guts out of it.

He says, "Looks like Chompy will remain animated for a little over 2 minutes. I'm glad that worked out well. I think eventually I'll be able to animate larger objects, but it worked out pretty well for its first real test run. Anyone in need of healing? I have one more medihaler left."

Honor Bright (Kathy) [AC 19; HP 19/24] d20+8=28 ; d6=3 ; d6=6 ; d6=3 ; d6=4 ; d6=1 ; d6=3 ; d6=4 ;
Friday October 30th, 2020 1:24:52 PM
Honor makes her final Fortitude save, overcoming the last of the poison.

Using her Lay on Hands ability, she heals Elron for 9, and Mundhildur for 7. Then she heals herself for 7.

"I'm out of healing," she says. "Let's save that last medihaler for an emergency."

Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant, large (Kim) AC 16 Touch 12 FF14 HP 25/32
Friday October 30th, 2020 1:35:25 PM
Mundhildur laughs at Elron's comment - she got what he was saying this time. "You're a funny rooster."

"Honor looks a little beat up, Asimov. Let her breathe that thing." She gives up on piecing the statue together. She gets her mules lined up. "Let's go for this next thing."

DM Kathy
Friday October 30th, 2020 2:28:17 PM
After the fight, Zeoll checks to see whether there are more plants. There are. Vines and creepers still wrap around the remnants of the statues, their leaves still whipping unsettlingly in the wind. But they seem to be a different variety of plant than the weedwhips, and they remain where they are.

Elron continues pulverizing the plants, just to be sure.

Asimov offers healing.

Honor provides some healing, and suggests keeping Asimov's healing in reserve.

Mundhildur lines up the mules, ready to proceed to the keep itself, which is about 50 feet from your current location.

Is the group ready to move on?

Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant, large (Kim) AC 16 Touch 12 FF14 HP 25/32
Friday October 30th, 2020 9:57:44 PM

Mundhildur looks at the very nearby Fowlsfield Keep. She visually measures its width, height, depth as far as she can see. She looks for windows, doors, crenellations, coloration. Is it intact? Signs of age, wear, or decay? Any evidence of recent habitation? What is the area like surrounding the keep? Is there a moat? How would she describe all this to others? She observes as she waits for the others to decide to go ahead. She is ready.

Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant, large (Kim) AC 16 Touch 12 FF14 HP 25/32 d20+5=20 ;
Friday October 30th, 2020 10:01:45 PM

And, I forgot to roll for Mundhi's Perception, to determine how well she takes in what she's trying to take in. Apparently, fairly well.
==========
Perception: 20

Zeoll the Greensinger | AC15, 16/16hp | Cayzle
Saturday October 31st, 2020 4:23:39 PM

Zeoll reminds the group that he has goodberries. 17 in fact.

No wait, 16. The liontaur eats one.

"Here, Munhi, take 7. Honor, take 5."

"That's 4 left over."

Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant, large (Kim) AC 16 Touch 12 FF14 HP 31/32
Sunday November 1st, 2020 2:13:58 AM
Mundhi thanks Zeoll for the goodberries, takes the seven he offered, and eats six, placing the last one in a pouch for emergencies.

SteveM - Elron | AC 21, HP 36/36
Sunday November 1st, 2020 8:27:42 PM
Elron is indeed ready to continue. He accepts one of the goodberries from Zeoll, explaining, "I don't know where I heard it, but I heard that if you're in the desert it's best to carry your water inside you," as he eats the berry. "'Course, I don't see no need to be goin' to a desert, neither. We're looking for silver berries, right?"

Asimov | Hugh | AC 15/12/13 HP 29/29 d20+7=12 ;
Monday November 2nd, 2020 1:28:19 AM
Asimov says to Elron, "Wouldn't you be a camel then? With their humps or a cactus?"

To Honor he says, "Well I can make more tomorrow. It seems like between my devices, your divine touch and Zeoll's berries we are able to handle most injuries for now. I should be able to keep making devices that heal up to a point, granted my devices are capable of so much more but it seems like our group is lacking a dedicated healer so I plan my device selection for now with the understanding that that is one of our limitations. I only wish Chompy could be impacted by Zeoll's lovely singing but he doesn't have a mind per se."

Asimov takes a look around (Perception: 12)

Zeoll the Greensinger | AC15, 16/16hp | Cayzle d20+10=12 ;
Monday November 2nd, 2020 7:34:54 AM

Zeoll shrugs. "Sometimes we might face foes that use magic to attack the mind. When that day comes, it may be that Chompy is what saves the parrty!"

Zeoll says a prayer and tries to recall what he might have heard about these berries and shares his lore, if any, with the party.

Know Nature 12

Honor Bright (Kathy) [AC 19; HP 24/24]
Monday November 2nd, 2020 12:50:27 PM
Honor has never tried a Goodberry before. She eats them slowly, enjoying their tangy sweetness.

"Thank you, Zeoll," she says. Then, "are we ready to continue?"

DM Kathy
Monday November 2nd, 2020 1:56:38 PM
You finish up the last of the healing and turn your attention to the keep. It is about 50 feet from your present position.

Mundhildur estimates that the keep is about 100 feet wide, and probably about 70 feet deep. The front gates, which you can see from here, seem to lead into some kind of courtyard. You don't see any windows on this side. The place is a ruin, clearly uninhabited. A pool of stagnant water surrounds the southwest corner; it is unclear from this angle whether any of the water has gotten into the building. It looks as though the walls have collapsed in a couple of places.

Zeoll tries to recall any new information about the silverberry vine, but comes up blank. It is rare, it is said to be good for healing, and that's about all you've got.

Zeoll the Greensinger | AC15, 16/16hp | Cayzle d20+2=14 ;
Monday November 2nd, 2020 2:16:56 PM

"That thing looks about rready to fall down! I wish we had a dwarrf with us."

"Well, wherre dwarrves fearr to trread, Barrds wanderr!"

Know Engineering to sense / find a safe way in. 14

OH, that Guidance cantrip I always cast would bring that to 15!

SteveM - Elron | AC 21, HP 36/36 d20+3=15 ;
Monday November 2nd, 2020 10:52:19 PM
"Aw, c'mon," says Elron, ready to lead the way through ths front gates if no one else is. (And not one to wait on egghead stuff like engineering.) "Unless you think the berries are out here and not in there."

Elron tries a know: nature check (roll = 15) of his own to see if he has any ideas about the berries himself.

Asimov | Hugh | AC 15/12/13 HP 29/29 d20+8=25 ; d20+8=21 ; d20+8=11 ; d20+7=17 ;
Tuesday November 3rd, 2020 2:19:06 AM
(Know Engineering: 25)
(Know Geography: 21)
(Know History : 11)
(Perception: 17 or 18 vs mechanical traps)

Asimov takes stock of the keep thinking about what he might know about it structurally, historically or geographically. He also keeps his eyes peels and makes sure they don't fall for any traps if he can spot them.

He makes sure Chompy is with them even if it went back to only being a bear trap.

Honor Bright (Kathy)
Tuesday November 3rd, 2020 12:41:30 PM
"It does seem odd to be looking for berries indoors," Honor says, eyeing the keep. "Maybe they have a greenhouse or something. Anyway, there's only one way to find out."

DM Kathy
Tuesday November 3rd, 2020 2:32:25 PM
Zeoll studies the structure for a safe way in, but sometimes the most obvious answer is the right one. The gates of the keep lead into the courtyard, which at least doesn't have a ceiling to collapse on anybody. Any other way in would involve climbing the walls or scrambling over rubble, so absent a specific reason not to use them (and you don't see one), the gates seem like the best option.

Asimov also studies the keep, but doesn't turn up any new information. He detects no traps.

Elron and Honor are ready to be done studying and see what lies beyond the gates.

When you get to the gates, you see that one of them has fallen completely to the ground, while the other leans drunkenly on one hinge. You step up to the opening and look into the courtyard beyond. Tall grasses and chunks of stone debris have all but overtaken it. Off to one side, a wooden stable has collapsed into a mound of rotting timbers and moldy straw. The outer wall on the east side has also collapsed, leaving a ragged hole. Three doors exit into this yard— a pair of double doors to the east, a single door to the north, and a lone door leading into the squat tower in the southeast corner. There is a well of sorts--just barely visible above the grasses--in the northwest corner.

Oh, look, a map. Not a combat map, of course, because we're not in combat. Just a general sort of reference map. No, really.

SteveM - Elron | AC 21, HP 36/36 d20+8=20 ; d20+12=32 ;
Tuesday November 3rd, 2020 10:02:34 PM
Elron is ready to move into the courtyard -- cautiously, in case there are more pugilistic plants there -- without thinking of traps. At least he's trying to be stealthy about it. The well captures his attention more than the rest, so that's the direction he heads.

(Stealth = 20; perception = 32)

Zeoll the Greensinger | AC15, 16/16hp | Cayzle d20+6=10 ;
Tuesday November 3rd, 2020 11:27:38 PM

Zeoll enters cautiously, looking around, sniffing for the berries.

Perception 10

Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant, large (Kim) AC 16 Touch 12 FF14 HP 31/32 d20+5=7 ;
Wednesday November 4th, 2020 1:59:24 AM

Mundhildur begins to walk around the building, widdershins, but is not overly observant. She used up most of that just taking in the building from the front.
========
Perception: 7

Asimov | Hugh | AC 15/12/13 HP 29/29 d20+6=9 ; d20+7=25 ;
Wednesday November 4th, 2020 3:17:09 AM
Stealth: 6
Perception: 25 / 26 vs Mechanical Traps

Asimov cautiously moves forward with the rest of his group keeping his eyes out for anything.

Honor Bright (Kathy)
Wednesday November 4th, 2020 1:29:04 PM
Honor also moves into the courtyard, looking around curiously.

Zeoll the Greensinger | AC15, 16/16hp | Cayzle
Wednesday November 4th, 2020 1:47:29 PM

Zeoll peers into the ragged hole on the east side. He casts Dancing Lights and sends the twinkling orbs in to illuminate the space.

DM Kathy
Wednesday November 4th, 2020 2:24:26 PM
Elron enters the courtyard and moves toward the well. As you reach it, you see something lying nearby, which proves to be a dead body--mostly skeletal, with bones missing.

Zeoll moves in and sniffs the air, but there is no sign of any berries. He illuminates the hole on the east side of the courtyard, and sees nothing beyond it but the outside. It is an exterior wall.

Asimov moves cautiously, but spies no traps.

Mundhildur opts to move around the outside of the building.

Those in the courtyard, DC 15 Survival Highlight to display spoiler: {There are faint signs of creatures moving through the courtyard. Most of them head into the main building through the double doors to the west.}

And the map. Please feel free to move your character around on the map if you move; that's why everybody has edit access. I did my best to move everybody how they said they moved, but it's really easier for everybody if you can do it yourselves.

SteveM - Elron | AC 21, HP 36/36 d20+8=12 ; d20+6=22 ; d20+6=7 ; d4=1 ; d4=4 ;
Wednesday November 4th, 2020 8:28:58 PM
(Survival = 12)

The party having been attacked by pumpkins, plants, dolls, and dead hands, Elron pre-emptively attacks the skeleton.

Hits AC 22 for 1 and AC 7 for 4...

-----
Rage 0/8 (inactive)

Asimov | Hugh | AC 15/12/13 HP 29/29 d20+1=11 ; d20-1=3 ;
Thursday November 5th, 2020 12:37:57 AM
(Survival: 11)

Asimov can't make out anything with the survival skill but that wasn't really his forte. Seeing Elron womp on the skeleton he pulls out his corrosive pistol and fires a shot as well, just to be on the safe side but his orb flies wide.

(3 vs touch)

Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant, large (Kim) AC 16 Touch 12 FF14 HP 31/32 d20+2=12 ; d20+5=13 ;
Thursday November 5th, 2020 1:46:40 AM
Mundhildur continues around the building, passing to the right of the rubble. She looks about her and listens.

Survival: 12
Perception: 13

Honor Bright (Kathy)
Thursday November 5th, 2020 12:38:19 PM
Seeing Elron and Asimov attack, Honor draws Virtue and heads toward the well. She doesn't see an opponent right away, so she uses her Detect Evil ability to try to find it.

DM Kathy
Thursday November 5th, 2020 3:43:08 PM
Elron, whose momma didn't raise no fools, launches a preemptive attack on the highly suspicious partial skeleton. His blow makes a few of the bones rattle, but they don't seem to move otherwise.

Seeing the attack, Asimov fires his corrosive pistol, but misses. Honor draws Virtue and moves toward the well, but detects no evil.

Mundhildur continues her circuit of the building. She sees another pile of rubble, somewhat larger, at the northeast corner of the structure.

In the courtyard, the skeleton continues to not do anything. The body seems to be dressed for exploring, with a warm cloak and sturdy boots. Perception DC 12 Highlight to display spoiler: {There is a leather bag of some kind at the base of the well, not far from the skeleton's hand.}

And the map.

Zeoll the Greensinger | AC15, 16/16hp | Cayzle
Thursday November 5th, 2020 10:40:48 PM
Zeoll watches, ready to support his friends if a threat materializes.

"Should we prroceed furrtherr?"

Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant, large (Kim) AC 16 Touch 12 FF14 HP 31/32 d20+5=8 ;
Thursday November 5th, 2020 11:54:20 PM

Coming upon the next pile of rubble, Mundhi holds out her longspear before her, to forestall any critter that tries to run her down. Observation wise, she looks at the fallen stones (bricks?), then upward to see what may be left of the wall from which the rubble fell.

Asimov | Hugh | AC 15/12/13 HP 29/29 d20+7=25 ; d20+10=26 ; d20+10=15 ;
Friday November 6th, 2020 12:29:47 AM
(Perception:25)

Asimov notices the bag at the base of the well and investigates it further. He also uses his magic detector (0th level device : detect magic) to look over the sturdy boots and warm cloak.

(Spellcraft: 26)
(Know[Arcana]: 15)

SteveM - Elron | AC 21, HP 36/36 d20+12=22 ;
Friday November 6th, 2020 9:41:19 AM
While Asimov looks over the bag, Elron looks around for other threats or berries. (Perception = 22).

"Say -- what do you call a sad silverberry?"

Highlight to display spoiler: {"A blue berry. . . That's, I say, that's a joke, son."}

Honor Bright (Kathy)
Friday November 6th, 2020 1:17:45 PM
Honor relaxes a bit.

"The skeleton isn't undead," she says. "Undead would detect as evil, and it doesn't. I think--I think maybe it's just a dead body."

She giggles a little at Elron's joke.

DM Kathy
Friday November 6th, 2020 2:33:21 PM
Mundhildur examines the rubble. It is stone, like the walls of the keep. Looking up, you can tell that there's not much left of this section of wall, and part of the ceiling has collapsed as well.

As Zeoll looks on, Asimov examines the bag and detects for magic. The skeleton's clothing and boots do not detect as magic, but something in the bag does. You open it cautiously--the leather is rotting--and find that it is a backpack. Inside, you find some moldy trail rations, a set of thieves' tools, 50 feet of silk rope, 4 potions (that's what detected as magic), and a small coin purse.

Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant, large (Kim) AC 16 Touch 12 FF14 HP 31/32 d20+5=17 ;
Saturday November 7th, 2020 8:39:15 AM

Mundhildur was going to continue around, but she ran out of map. So instead she carefully climbs up and over the rubble to see what is on the other side.

Perception: 17

Zeoll the Greensinger | AC15, 16/16hp | Cayzle d20+11=30 ;
Sunday November 8th, 2020 11:51:16 AM
By the state of the mold, by the level of decay, Zeoll takes a guess at how long this poor soul has lain here. Also, any clue as to how the person died? Broken bones, holes in clothes, any clue? Zeoll prays for guidance and looks closely.

Guided Know Nature 30! Woot!

SteveM - Elron | AC 21, HP 36/36
Sunday November 8th, 2020 8:15:59 PM
Elron looks around for doors leading indoors, since he hasn't noticed any silver berries in the courtyard.

Asimov | Hugh | AC 15/12/13 HP 29/29 d20+10=28 ; d20+10=12 ; d20+10=16 ; d20+10=27 ;
Monday November 9th, 2020 2:04:14 AM
Asimov throws out the rations, checks the coin purse and tries to identify the potions.

He tells the others what he finds.

(Spellcraft: 28)
(Spellcraft: 12)
(Spellcraft: 16)
(Spellcraft: 27)

Honor Bright (Kathy) d20+7=25 ;
Monday November 9th, 2020 1:42:26 PM
Honor also examines the body to try to determine how the person died. [Heal check 25]

DM Kathy
Monday November 9th, 2020 2:39:41 PM
Mundhildur begins climbing the rubble. However, you soon realize that the rubble is full of sleeping bats. If you disturb them, things could get interesting for a while.

Asimov looks in the coin purse and finds assorted coins adding up to 42 gold. You are able to identify one of the potions as Cure Light Wounds, and one as Cure Moderate Wounds. You aren't quite able to identify two of them, but they look and smell exactly like the Cure Light Wounds potion you did identify, so they are probably the same thing. [OOC: they are]

Zeoll and Honor examine the body. Zeoll deduces it has been here for about a year. Honor can tell that the explorer was partially devoured by a large animal, though it's impossible to say whether that was what killed him.

Meanwhile, Elron looks for doors that lead inside. The doors to the north and west from the courtyard seem to lead into the keep, although it's too dark inside to see much beyond the open doors. The door in the southeast corner appears to lead into a squat watchtower of some kind; it is shut.

Hey, look, a new map!

SteveM - Elron | AC 21, HP 36/36
Monday November 9th, 2020 11:14:31 PM
Elron suggests looking through the tower first, figuring it's smaller and easier to search than the main keep. Not that there's logic to that, but it's his reasoning nonetheless.

Zeoll the Greensinger | AC15, 16/16hp | Cayzle d20+7=17 ; d20+10=21 ;
Monday November 9th, 2020 11:54:18 PM

Zeoll opens the door to the watchtower and peers in. He looks for tracks that might reveal if anyone has been this way recently.

Praying for Guidance, Perception 17, Survival (tracking) 21

Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant, large (Kim) AC 16 Touch 12 FF14 HP 31/32
Tuesday November 10th, 2020 12:44:21 AM

Bats. Mundhi likes bats. But it won't likely do to disturb them as they sleep. She backs off, and hurries back around to rejoin her friends through the front door. Figure she gets about halfway there so far.

Asimov | Hugh | AC 15/12/13 HP 29/29 d20+8=18 ; d20+10=28 ;
Tuesday November 10th, 2020 4:33:42 AM
Asimov gives Elron the potion of cure moderate wounds and then proceeds to hand to Munhildur, Honor and Zeoll the potions of cure light wounds.

Asimov wanders over to where the shut door is and tries to stop Zeoll from opening the door before he has had a chance to examine it for mechanical traps or magic (Perception: 18 vs Mechanical Traps; Know[Arcana]: 28)

Honor Bright (Kathy)
Tuesday November 10th, 2020 12:48:48 PM
"Thanks, Asimov," Honor says. She moves closer to the tower door, ready to help her companions with unpleasant surprises.

DM Kathy
Tuesday November 10th, 2020 2:38:08 PM
Mundhildur decides to let sleeping bats lie, and heads back toward the main group.

Elron suggests exploring the tower first.

Zeoll is happy to oblige, and moves to open the door. Asimov wants to examine it for traps first, but that proves to be academic as Zeoll pulls on the door and nothing happens. It doesn't seem to be locked; it is stuck somehow. A Strength check might force it open.

And the map.

Zeoll the Greensinger | AC15, 16/16hp | Cayzle
Tuesday November 10th, 2020 3:06:40 PM

"I think this is yourr deparrtment, my dearr," says Zeoll to Mundhi. He casts Guidance on her to give her a +1 on the check.

SteveM - Elron | AC 21, HP 36/36
Tuesday November 10th, 2020 7:03:42 PM
Impatient as ever, while the bigger folks worry about doors Elron looks to see if there's a spot he might be able to squeeze through.

Asimov | Hugh | AC 15/12/13 HP 29/29 d20+1=11 ;
Wednesday November 11th, 2020 6:41:20 AM
Asimov tries to aid Mundi in her efforts (Strength 11 vs DC 10 to aid another)

Honor Bright (Kathy)
Wednesday November 11th, 2020 1:35:39 PM
Honor looks at the traffic jam at the door, and decides to stay where she is.

DM Kathy
Wednesday November 11th, 2020 2:57:58 PM
Zeoll calls for Mundhildur to open the door, and casts Guidance to help. Asimov squeezes in to provide some assistance. Honor can't find a space to get near the door, so she decides to sit this one out.

Meanwhile Elron looks around for a smaller entrance to squeeze into. You don't find one in the tower. You could, of course, leave the main group and go poking around inside one of the doors to the main part of the keep.

[OOC: Since people don't seem to be using the map, I'll drop it for now, but that means I get to place everybody if something happens.]

Zeoll the Greensinger | AC15, 16/16hp | Cayzle
Wednesday November 11th, 2020 5:39:11 PM
[OOC: Kathy, we trust you to map us appropriately. Call me old school -- I like when the DM moves the PCs on the map! LOL!]

After casting the Guidance, Zeoll steps back to give Mundhi room to get in there.

SteveM - Elron | AC 21, HP 36/36 d20=7 ;
Wednesday November 11th, 2020 8:42:41 PM
Elron may be impatient, but he isn't wandering around on his own. If he fits into the picture nearer the ground, he offers to help with the door. If he doesn't fit, he offers advice.

(Strength roll = 7)

Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant, large (Kim) AC 16 Touch 12 FF14 HP 31/32 d20+5=24 ; d20+5=13 ;
Wednesday November 11th, 2020 11:02:44 PM

With the help of Zeoll and Asimov, and the moral support of the others, it looks like Mundhildur may have managed to swing open the door [Strength check 24].

She looks to see what is behind the door.
==========
Perception: 13

Asimov | Hugh | AC 15/12/13 HP 29/29 d20+7=25 ;
Thursday November 12th, 2020 2:38:38 AM
Asimov also peers in to see what is behind the door (Perception: 25/26 vs mechanical traps)

Honor Bright (Kathy)
Thursday November 12th, 2020 1:43:59 PM
Honor continues standing by, just in case something jumps out at them.

DM Kathy
Thursday November 12th, 2020 2:33:23 PM
Mundhildur gives the door a good tug, and it comes unstuck and opens! Inside, you see thick webs covering ancient crates and barrels stored inside the base of the tower. A rickety wooden staircase ascends along one wall to reach an open trapdoor above.

Knowledge (engineering) DC 15 Highlight to display spoiler: {The wooden staircase is not stable. Climbing it will involve a certain amount of agility, and it can only bear so much weight.}

Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant, large (Kim) AC 16 Touch 12 FF14 HP 31/32
Thursday November 12th, 2020 6:43:18 PM

"Here we go. Spiderwebs, crates, barrels, stairway upwards. Who wants to go first?" Mundhildur asks. She moves out of the way to allow for the passage of others.

SteveM - Elron | AC 21, HP 36/36
Thursday November 12th, 2020 10:48:08 PM
"I'm light. I can go first," Elron says. If there's a clear path through the webs, he heads for the stairs. If not, he starts clearing webs while looking out for spiders.

Asimov | Hugh | AC 15/12/13 HP 29/29 d20+8=11 ;
Friday November 13th, 2020 3:25:21 AM
(Know[Engineering]:11)

Asimov says "Anyone got any rope? Perhaps we give some to Elron so we don't lose him?"

Honor Bright (Kathy)
Friday November 13th, 2020 2:01:29 PM
"I have rope," Honor says. She fishes around in her backpack and pulls out 50 feet of silk rope. "Though I'm not sure what good it'll do. We'll be on the ground. If he falls, he'll be rejoining us anyway."

DM Kathy
Friday November 13th, 2020 2:52:49 PM
Seeing the room, Mundhildur steps back to allow the others to enter.

Elron volunteers to climb the stairs, since he is the lightest of the group. He approaches the stairs. You can tell by looking that it's going to be difficult to climb them. You'll need to succeed at a DC 10 Acrobatics check to make any progress at all.

Asimov suggests a rope, which Honor can supply if needed.

And the map.

Zeoll the Greensinger | AC15, 16/16hp | Cayzle d20+3=9 ;
Friday November 13th, 2020 3:34:36 PM

Zeoll says a prayer as he looks over those stairs and wonders it they are load-bearing. Or rather, liontaur-bearing.

Knowledge Engineering: 9

Not having a clue, Zeoll holds back and lets the able Elron take a crack at it. He casts Guidance on the beastkin as he begins his ascent. [OOC: Take a +1 on your check]

SteveM - Elron | AC 21, HP 36/36 d20+10=16 ;
Friday November 13th, 2020 8:22:57 PM
(Acrobatics = 16)

Elron takes the rope, more so he can drop it from the trap door if he gets there, and proceeds up the stairs as far as he can.

Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant, large (Kim) AC 16 Touch 12 FF14 HP 31/32
Friday November 13th, 2020 9:12:47 PM

Mundhildur decides she should go in and follow* Elron's path upwards, and be ready to catch him if he slips or something.

Preparation: Be a semi-firm pillow. Ah, she gets out a blanket, and holds it spread horizontally in front of her.

=========
* 'follow' - visually, and remaining more or less below him on the floor - actually, the extended blanket beneath what might be the path he might take should he fall off the stairs.

Asimov | Hugh | AC 15/12/13 HP 29/29
Sunday November 15th, 2020 8:59:43 PM
Asimov asks, "Should I put some gears on the trap to make chompy and send it up there after Elron?" he queries the others.

Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant, large (Kim) AC 16 Touch 12 FF14 HP 31/32
Monday November 16th, 2020 11:29:29 AM

"Why would you want to use a chompy trap against Elron?" Mundhi asks, astonished at Asimov's suggestion.

She does not always quite clue into the exact meaning of others' statements.

Honor Bright (Kathy)
Monday November 16th, 2020 1:55:58 PM
"That blanket is a good idea," Honor tells Mundhildur. "Here, let me grab the other side." Honor squeezes into the room to take the other side of the blanket and be ready to catch Elron if needed.

DM Kathy d6=4 ; d6=3 ; d6=1 ;
Monday November 16th, 2020 2:52:40 PM
With a little boost from Zeoll, Elron begins his climb. Asimov offers to have Chompy help, but for now, Elron's support consists of Mundhildur and Honor holding a blanket to catch him.

But as soon as Elron steps on the stairs, a group of spiders takes exception to his presence. A rather large group of spiders, in fact! It forms into four separate swarms of spiders!

One swarms into Elron's space, and he takes 4 damage in little spider bites. He must also make a DC 11 Fortitude save or be nauseated for 1 round. And he must make a DC 11 Fortitude save against poison.

Another swarms into Mundhildrur's space! She takes 3 points of damage, and must succeed at a DC 11 Fortitude save or be nauseated for 1 round, plus a DC 11 Fortitude save against poison.

Another swarms into Honor's space! She takes 1 point of damage, and must make two DC 11 Fortitude saves.

And yes, the swarms did provoke when moving into peoples' squares.

And the map.

Zeoll the Greensinger | AC15, 16/16hp | Cayzle
Monday November 16th, 2020 3:25:51 PM
Zeoll quickly breaks into a rousing anti-spider song:

The itsy-bitsy spiderrs rraced down the stairrs so steep!
And overr all my herro frriends they did decide to crreep!
Out came a gun to frreeze them with a rray!
And the itsy bitsy spiderrs were blown the heck away!

+1 to attacks and damage, my friends!

SteveM - Elron | AC 21, HP 32/36 d20+7=13 ; d20+7=11 ; d20+3=10 ; d20+3=17 ; d4=3 ; d4=3 ;
Monday November 16th, 2020 8:33:14 PM
(Fortitude: 13 and 11)

Although Elron is neither sickened nor poisoned (for the moment), he doesn't want to become that way. And while he could have endless fun whappin' at the spiders, somehow he doesn't think that would solve his immediate problem. He wants to run away and return with a big fire, except he hasn't got one.

"Do you guys think we can lure these things out into the courtyard? They're little bitty bugs -- I bet they're not that fast."

While he moves out of the room, Elron still swats at the ones that are on him. He's gotta hit something while he can. . .

Natural weapons are considered light weapons in terms of the weapon finesse feat. Does that mean it works with unarmed attacks? If so, each of these should get another +4 to hit:
Flurry of blows, AC: 10 and 17 for 3 and 3 points damage

Asimov | Hugh | AC 15/12/13 HP 29/29
Tuesday November 17th, 2020 1:17:08 AM
Asimov takes the time (full round) to attach gears to the bear trap and make it Chompy again

Honor Bright [AC 19; HP 23/24] (Kathy) d20+8=11 ; d20+8=15 ; d20+8=26 ; d8=7 ;
Tuesday November 17th, 2020 1:53:12 PM
Honor isn't nauseated, and isn't affected by the poison. She steps back, draws Virtue, and hacks at the spiders.

[Hit AC 26 for 11 damage.]

DM Kathy d6=5 ; d6=4 ; d6=2 ;
Tuesday November 17th, 2020 2:30:32 PM
As the spiders attack, Zeoll starts up a jaunty little spider-killing song.

Asimov readies Chompy.

Elron suggests luring them into the courtyard, and attacks the swarm. His attacks hit [yes, finesse applies to natural weapons], but the spiders are tiny, and there are lots of them. He does no damage to the swarm.

Honor steps back and attacks. She, too, hits, but does no damage.

It seems clear that ordinary weapons are not going to affect these creatures.

The swarm attacks Elron again, doing 5 damage. He must make a DC 11 Fortitude save or be nauseated. He also needs a DC 11 Fort save against poison, and another DC 11 Fort save against last round's poison.

Mundhildur takes 4 more damage, and needs a DC 11 Fort save to avoid being nauseated, plus two DC 11 Fort saves against poison, plus last round's saves because they haven't been done yet.

Honor takes two damage, and also needs to make three DC 11 Fort saves.

The fourth swarm mills about, looking for an opponent.

And the map. If you move, please move yourself on the map.

Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant, large (Kim) AC 16 Touch 12 FF14 HP 24/32 d20+7=16 ; d20+7=21 ; d20+5=21 ; d20+5=23 ; d20+5=13 ; d20+7=25 ; d20+7=27 ; d20+7=21 ; d20+5=25 ; d20+5=16 ; d20+5=17 ; d8+3=6 ; d8+4=9 ; d8+4=7 ; d8+4=7 ; d8+4=7 ; d8+4=8 ;
Tuesday November 17th, 2020 4:15:34 PM
[I tried to post earlier, had things written out. Internet down. I'll start with the first post (the first paragraph below) before I saw the DM post, then follow with the second (last paragraph after I saw DM post). All the rolls for the two rounds are above. It's up to you, Kathy as to whether you want to accept the 'Yesterday' post - but I tried for 3 hours to get this done before you posted, and felt really frustrated!]

Yesterday
"Eeek!" the very tall woman says as crawly spiders land on her. She makes her saves (16, 21), takes an attack of opportunity - ah, damage rolls needed. AoO 6 hp vs AC 21. Then regular slam attacks, this time with Zeoll's inspired poetry to aid her: 9 hp vs AC 23 & 7 hp vs AC 13 (if that even hits).

Today
Made all the saves (25, 27, 21). Rolled a nat 20 on 1st slam attack - if AC 16 is good enough to turn the threat into a crit vs the spiders, then damage is 7+7=14. 2nd slam attack 8 hp vs AC 17. "I hate little bitey spiders!"

SteveM - Elron | AC 21, HP 27/36 d20+7=26 ; d10=10 ; d20+7=26 ; d20+7=19 ; d20+11=13 ;
Tuesday November 17th, 2020 6:28:45 PM
(Fort saves: 26, 26, 19)

Elron leaves the room, taking a flying leap if necessary (a flapping leap, anyway -- acrobatics: 13).

"Has anyone got a way to make fire or smoke?"

Zeoll the Greensinger | AC15, 16/16hp | Cayzle
Tuesday November 17th, 2020 9:27:50 PM
Zeoll keeps singing, but he sees that physical attacks are useless, and he has nothing that would work on these foes.

"I think a tactical rretrreat would be best!" he calls out. The old taur takes a double move out the way they came in.

[OOC: No room on the map for a double move, but Zeoll has 80 ft of space to use up.

Asimov | Hugh | AC 15/12/13 HP 29/29 d20+3=17 ; d3=1 ;
Wednesday November 18th, 2020 1:57:56 AM
Asimov moves away from the door, readying an action to fire an acid splash round from his corrosive pistol should the spiders exit the room.

Chompy meanwhile enters the door and attacks one of the spider swarms (17 vs AC; 1 damage; bludgeoning)

5/7 windup toy uses remaining

Chompy Stats :
AC 16 Touch 12 FF 15
HP 21
Speed 20 ft
Hardness 5
Immune: construct traits
Fort +0, Ref +1, Will -5
2 slams +3 (1d3)

Devices Prepared:
0th: corrosive pistol (acid splash), compass (know direction), freeze ray (ray of frost), lesser temporary health improvement capsule (virtue)
1st: wrist rockets (magic missile)-used, medihaler light (CLW)-used, medihaler light (CLW)-used, medihaler light (CLW)

Honor Bright [AC 19; HP 21/24] (Kathy) d20+8=26 ; d20+8=18 ; d20+8=9 ;
Wednesday November 18th, 2020 2:36:41 PM
Honor fails one of her poison saves. Seeing that Virtue is doing nothing to harm the spiders, she calls, "I think a strategic retreat is in order!"

Suiting actions to words, she squeezes past Mundhildur and out into the courtyard.

"I haven't got any torches," she confesses. "Can we throw something together?"

DM Kathy d4=2 ; d6=6 ; d6=6 ; d6=1 ; d6=6 ;
Wednesday November 18th, 2020 3:11:22 PM
Mundhildur lashes left and right at the spiders, but her blows don't seem to affect them.

Zeoll calls for a retreat and leaves the courtyard.

Elron leaves the tower and calls for fire or smoke.

Honor echoes the call for a retreat, and also leaves the tower. She fails a save against poison, and takes a point of Strength damage.

Asimov sends Chompy in after the swarms. Chompy's attacks also have no effect.

Your DM would now like to pause and make it very clear that nothing you have done so far has done any damage to the spider swarms. Elron's flurries, Mundhildur's slams, Virtue, and Chompy have all been equally ineffective.

Now there are two swarms on Mundhildur. She takes 7 points of damage, and needs to make 2 DC 11 Fort saves against becoming nauseated, plus 2 more DC 11 Fort saves against new poison, plus one more DC 11 Fort save against last round's poison.

Another swarm goes after Chompy. Hey, they're bugs; they don't know any better. If Chompy can take any damage from these things, he takes 6. The nausea and poison won't affect him.

Elron needs one more DC 11 Fort save against poison; Honor needs 2 more.

And the map.

Zeoll the Greensinger | AC15, 16/16hp | Cayzle
Wednesday November 18th, 2020 8:27:12 PM

"Mundhi! Get out of therre!" calls Zeoll.

"I have not even got a pot of oil to burrn, alas," says the liontaur as he continues to retreat, no longer singing.

SteveM - Elron | AC 21, HP 27/36 d20+7=8 ;
Wednesday November 18th, 2020 9:03:56 PM
(Fort save = 8, fail)

Elron does what he can to help Mundhildur, at least to his way of thinking. Unfortunately, that's run up and use his waterskin to try to wash some spiders off. He's also really hoping they don't like it in the bright outdoors as he squeezes the skin to send the small stream their way.

Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant, large (Kim) AC 16 Touch 12 FF14 HP 17/32 d20+7=17 ; d20+7=27 ; d20+7=21 ; d20+7=21 ; d20+7=22 ;
Thursday November 19th, 2020 3:09:36 AM

Seeing the point her friends are making, Mundhildur runs out the room, shaking the blanket against her back just in case some number of arachnids thought that a good landing place. Once out, she uses the blanket as a large towel, getting as many remaining eight-legged beasts off her body and clothing as she might.

"You want fire? Here - take this blanket and light it afire, and toss it in, and watch the spiders fry, and the stairs start burning." She tosses it next to the doorway.

"Ouch."
===========
She made all her saves. Good rolls, Mundhi. Even one nat 20.

Asimov | Hugh | AC 15/12/13 HP 29/29 d20+5=14 ; d3+1=2 ;
Thursday November 19th, 2020 3:51:30 AM
(OOC: Hardness 5 means Chompy ignores the first 5 points of damage)

Asimov says, "I don't have any devices created involving fire right now. I do have acid and ice but the damage they can do isn't much."

He orders Chompy out of the building, takes a 5 foot step and readies an action to fire an acid round at the first spider swarm he sees coming out of the building.

(14 vs touch; 2 acid damage)

5/7 windup toy uses remaining

Chompy Time remaining - 29/30 rounds

Chompy Stats :
AC 16 Touch 12 FF 15
HP 20/21
Speed 20 ft
Hardness 5
Immune: construct traits
Fort +0, Ref +1, Will -5
2 slams +3 (1d3)

Devices Prepared:
0th: corrosive pistol (acid splash), compass (know direction), freeze ray (ray of frost), lesser temporary health improvement capsule (virtue)
1st: wrist rockets (magic missile)-used, medihaler light (CLW)-used, medihaler light (CLW)-used, medihaler light (CLW)

Zeoll the Greensinger | AC15, 16/16hp | Cayzle
Thursday November 19th, 2020 6:46:47 AM
"I suppose if I werre a 'blasterr casterr' I could have used Burrning Hands or something. Alas, that's not much of what barrds do. I'll trry to learrn some drruidic spells like that. Flaming Spherre maybe?"

Honor Bright [AC 19; HP 21/24] (Kathy) d20+8=13 ; d10=6 ; d20+8=23 ;
Thursday November 19th, 2020 4:40:13 PM
Honor makes both her saves. She can't do anything but cheerlead at the moment.

"Did that body have any torches or anything on it?" she asks. [OOC: It did not. Honor's player knows that perfectly well, but it's the kind of thing a person would ask.]

DM Kathy d4=4 ;
Thursday November 19th, 2020 4:45:29 PM
Zeoll stops singing and continues to retreat.

Elron fails his Fortitude save and takes 2 points of Strength damage. He tries to dissuade the spiders by squirting water at them.

Mundhildur retreats, then uses her blanket to brush the spiders off her. She tosses down the blanket, and recommends setting fire to it for use as a weapon.

Asimov pulls Chompy back, and readies an attack for when the spiders emerge.

Honor is stymied, and casts about for other solutions.

The spiders scuttle around on the floor of the tower, but do not leave it to come out into the courtyard. They stay inside.

Mundhildur needs 2 more DC 11 Fort saves against poison; Elron and Honor each need 1.

SteveM - Elron | AC 21, HP 27/36 d20+7=20 ;
Thursday November 19th, 2020 11:56:14 PM
(Fort save = 20)

"But Mundhilduh, we don't need to burn down the tower -- jes' smoke it out. An' I bet those whipweeds we killed is still green enough." Elron considers where they might get fuel for a fire. He's sure Asimov can figure out how to chase off the spiders after that.

Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant, large (Kim) AC 16 Touch 12 FF14 HP 17/32 d20+7=18 ; d20+7=12 ;
Friday November 20th, 2020 2:28:12 AM

Mundhildur makes both saving throws versus poison. Whew! She is down many hit points, though.

"Well, you got me a little bit damp. What if we get a little more water on the blanket, but no soak it, and have a few buckets of water nearby to put out flames as they arise. We get the thing smoking, and take it into the tower, and choke on the same smoke that might knock out some of those webswarmers." She goes out looking for water. She figures if she dips a quarter of the blanket in water, lifts it out, then squeezes the wet parts against the dry parts, that might do it. If she can accomplish such, then she returns with the prepared blanket. Who knows whether it might work or not?

Asimov | Hugh | AC 15/12/13 HP 29/29
Friday November 20th, 2020 4:04:56 AM
Asimov says, "I wonder what would happen if we used torches as makeshift weapons agains the spiders. I don't think the torch itself would do anything but mayhap the flame would work."

Zeoll the Greensinger | AC15, 16/16hp | Cayzle
Friday November 20th, 2020 6:47:15 AM

Zeoll sighs. "If we smoke them out, they come out and attack us."

"Yes, torrches would worrk, but do we even have any? Even if we did, it would be a verry tough fight."

[OOC: "If a torch is used in combat, treat it as a one-handed improvised weapon that deals bludgeoning damage equal to that of a gauntlet of its size, plus 1 point of fire damage."]

"My frriends, sometimes the best answerr to a challenge is to go arround the challenge. We arre herre for berrries, not conquest. We won't find berrries in a darrk, rramshackle towerr."

Honor Bright [AC 19; HP 21/24] (Kathy) d20+8=19 d20+8=27
Friday November 20th, 2020 1:27:54 PM
"And if we're looking for berries," Honor adds, "setting a room on fire isn't our best option. Yes, we'd get the spiders, but if there are any berries in there, they could be destroyed."

Honor makes her final two saves and feels much better.

DM Kathy
Friday November 20th, 2020 8:43:32 PM
You debate the wisdom--and the logistics--of smoking the spiders out, but you seem to be coming to the conclusion that it's maybe not a good idea.

Which brings up the question: if you're leaving the tower for now, where do you go next?

Asimov | Hugh | AC 15/12/13 HP 29/29
Monday November 23rd, 2020 12:55:06 AM
Asimov says, "If you got an idea as to where to search next for the berries lead on; otherwise if we can take a rest I can make devices that will allow me to do things with flame tomorrow. I believe I can make devices that can mimic the burning hands and produce flame spells. The problem is I can only make 4 such devices total and if I make them then I can't make medihalers. What would you suggest all burning hands so as to get the most spiders in a given area?"

Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant, large (Kim) AC 16 Touch 12 FF14 HP 17/32
Monday November 23rd, 2020 2:03:27 AM

"As we draw near to dusk, there are a heap of bats over in the rubble pile on the other side of that door," Mundhildur points. "They are sleeping now. If we can persuade them to eat spiders, then, nice. No, I have no idea how to do that." She examines her various little wounds. "They bit me here, and here, and there on my ankles, and, oh, here's another one. And right back here." She pauses. "I must be tasty."

"If we can find a safe place to rest, I'd be fine with that. But we can move elsewhere, too, if you want."

Zeoll the Greensinger | AC15, 16/16hp | Cayzle
Monday November 23rd, 2020 6:28:58 AM

"Yes, pull back out of spiderr and bat rrange, and rrest. Good idea. I'll take firrst watch."

Honor Bright [AC 19; HP 21/24] (Kathy)
Monday November 23rd, 2020 12:38:58 PM
"I think resting is a good idea," Honor says. "I can take a watch as well."

She helps set up camp.

DM Kathy
Monday November 23rd, 2020 1:35:33 PM
Withdrawing from Spider Tower, you decide that maybe it's time to rest.

You move a ways from the mostly-unexplored keep, and attempt to set up a camp. The gusting winds make it challenging, but you are able to camp in reasonable comfort. You set your watches, but nothing disturbs your rest.

You awaken to a drizzly morning, ready for another day's exploration.

SteveM - Elron | AC 21, HP 30/36
Monday November 23rd, 2020 4:25:34 PM
Before camping, Elron asks, "Say, ah, Asimov -- if'n you've got yore healin' devices, I know Mundhi could use 'em before we go to sleep." Elron and Honor were also injured by the spiders, but much less so than Mundhildur.

Elron heals 3 hp overnight.

In the morning, Elron is ready to follow wherever the brains of the group want to lead. But he's a little concerned that the plan seems to involve fire, which the conversation yesterday decided was likely not to fare well. Maybe there's a way to bypass the spiders entirely -- like climbing up the outside of the tower. Are there windows on the second floor?

Asimov | Hugh | AC 15/12/13 HP 29/29 d8+3=7 ;
Tuesday November 24th, 2020 1:59:16 AM
Asimov uses the last medihaler on Mundi and she heals 7 hp before bed.

The next day Asimov prepares the following devices:

0th - corrosive pistol (acid splash); freeze ray (ray of frost); lesser temporary health improvement capsule (virtue); light emitter (light)
1st - Flaming glove (burning hands), Flaming glove (burning hands), Flaming glove (burning hands), Flaming glove (burning hands)

He asks the others, "What should our plan be for dealing with the spiders? I am heal light but I am area fire damage heavy."

Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant, large (Kim) AC 16 Touch 12 FF14 HP 27/32
Tuesday November 24th, 2020 4:03:12 AM

With the benefit of Asimov's medihaler ("Thank you!") and a good night's sleep, Mundhi recovers 10 hp, feeling much better. "Well, if we manage to burn the spiders out, and light the stairway and tower on fire, then, after they cool, we can sift through the ashes to see what did not burn up," she offers helpfully. "Or, we can go in search of berries from the silverberry vine. I say, let's look for a silverberry vine before we deal with spiders again!"

She prepares a morning meal for everyone. "I wonder how fox is doing," she says as she stirs breakfast porridge.

Honor Bright [AC 19; HP 24/24] (Kathy)
Tuesday November 24th, 2020 12:48:06 PM
Honor heals up overnight.

"I agree with Mundhildur," she says. "Let's explore the rest of the keep before dealing with the spiders. Who knows, maybe there's anti-spider poison somewhere!"

Zeoll the Greensinger | AC15, 16/16hp | Cayzle 6d4=14 ;
Tuesday November 24th, 2020 1:32:33 PM

Before bed Zeoll casts three goodberry spells, creating 14 berries.

In the morning, he agrees to check out the rest of the keep first.

DM Kathy
Tuesday November 24th, 2020 1:59:29 PM
You make your morning preparations and return to the keep.

You are once again standing in the overgrown courtyard. Off to one side, a wooden stable has collapsed into a mound of rotting timbers and moldy straw. The outer wall on the east side has also collapsed, leaving a ragged hole. Three doors exit into this yard— a pair of double doors to the east, a single door to the north, and a lone door leading into the squat tower in the southeast corner, which you now know leads to exciting spider stuff. You have also explored the well in the northwest corner, and found and looted the body of the explorer lying nearby.

Two doors remain to be explored. With a DC 15 Survival check Highlight to display spoiler: {you see faint signs that some creatures do enter the main building through the double doors. Some of these tracks look reptilian while others are clearly made by four-legged mammals. The reptilian trail always leads to the main entrance and then out into the wild while the mammal tracks leave by either the main entrance or through the hole in the eastern wall. }

The map is still available for your reference.

SteveM - Elron | AC 21, HP 30/36 d20+8=14 ;
Tuesday November 24th, 2020 10:49:53 PM
(Survival = 14)

Elron remembers there were spiders in the tower, and he thinks Mundhildur said something about bats near the single door across from the tower (to the north). That leaves the double doors between what's left of the stables and the well (to the east) as the least explored area. That's where he thinks the party should go next.

Asimov | Hugh | AC 15/12/13 HP 29/29 d20+1=13 ; d20+7=19 ;
Wednesday November 25th, 2020 1:18:35 AM
(Survival:13)

Asimov checks out the double doors that Elron pointed out for traps and other hazards.

(Perception: 19/20 vs mechanical traps)

Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant, large (Kim) AC 16 Touch 12 FF14 HP 27/32 d20+2=6 ; d20+5=18 ;
Wednesday November 25th, 2020 2:09:57 AM

Mundhildur heads over to the west door, and if Asimov finds no traps, opens it, and looks to see what she can see inside.

Survival: 6 - meh
Perception: 18 (what's inside the west door?)

Zeoll the Greensinger | AC15, 16/16hp | Cayzle d20+9=17 ;
Wednesday November 25th, 2020 6:56:50 AM
Survival 17 OOH-AH!

"My frriends, I see herre that two kinds of crreaturres pass in and out. A rreptilian sorrt goes in and out of the doorr. A fourr-legged crreaturre sometimes goes in and out thrrough the doorr as well as thrrough this hole herre."

"I suggest that we trry the hole and hope to meet the four-leggerr, likely a mammal. If it is an animal, my arrts may rresolve an encounterr without violence and perrhaps even gain us an ally."

Honor Bright [AC 19; HP 24/24] (Kathy)
Wednesday November 25th, 2020 12:33:26 PM
Honor frowns, puzzled. "Didn't Mundhildur go that way yesterday?" she asks. "And find bats? Did you see any sign of a four-legged creature?"

Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant, large (Kim) AC 16 Touch 12 FF14 HP 27/32
Wednesday November 25th, 2020 1:24:46 PM

"Honor - bats are that way," and Muhdhi points in the general direction of the rubble on the east side, toward the north. [I added the 'bats' text to the rubble area on the map.] "Asimov is suggesting we go this way, where the double doors are here on the west side." She pauses. "I don't know if that's where whatever types of creatures went whichever way they did."

DM Kathy
Wednesday November 25th, 2020 2:21:08 PM
You debate which way to go next. Asimov and Elron gravitate toward the double doors.

Zeoll, studying faint tracks on the ground, suggests exiting through the hole in the wall, where the rubble is, because there might be a friendly animal that way.

Honor points out that Mundhildur went that way yesterday and found bats.

Mundhildur is already on her way to the double doors. Not seeing Honor's pointing hand, she says no, no, the bats are out by the rubble.

And hilarity ensues.

Most of the party seems inclined to try the double doors, so that's where your DM will lead you next. Asimov checks the doors, and finds no traps.

Beyond the double doors is a small dark hall. Littered with mounds of debris and a year’s worth of dead leaves, it is clear that a narrow path winds inside.

Survival DC 20 Highlight to display spoiler: {Most of the traffic through this area heads north.}

Ooh, look; the map has been updated.

SteveM - Elron | AC 21, HP 30/36 d20+8=12 ;
Wednesday November 25th, 2020 10:58:40 PM
(Survival = 12)

Elron's not the best at directions when he's not paying attention.

"So, if'n I go in here, a swarm of lizards might come out like the spiders in the tower over there?" he asks Zeoll. Lizards are bigger, and easier to whap. Elron's game.

Asimov | Hugh | AC 15/12/13 HP 29/29
Thursday November 26th, 2020 6:29:56 AM
Asimov says, "I could put one of my flaming gloves on, take the lead and if a lizard swarm pops out I flambé em"

Honor Bright [AC 19; HP 24/24] (Kathy)
Thursday November 26th, 2020 2:30:51 PM
"Well, Zeoll saw tracks," Honor says. "That doesn't mean a swarm, although I suppose anything is possible. Asimov, I'm not sure it's a good idea for you to take the lead, even with the gloves. I don't mind going in first."

DM Kathy
Thursday November 26th, 2020 3:39:42 PM
You discuss the possibility of a lizard swarm, but reach no conclusions. Really, there's only one way to find out what's in here, and that's to go in. Who will be first?

Zeoll the Greensinger | AC15, 16/16hp | Cayzle d20+9=19 ;
Thursday November 26th, 2020 10:25:16 PM
Survival 19! Oh well!

Honor, Asimov, Zeoll, Mundhi, and strong Elron as rearguard, Zeoll declares.

SteveM - Elron | AC 21, HP 30/36
Friday November 27th, 2020 12:15:33 AM
Elron also doesn't mind taking the lead, if folks want him to. That way, he could attack and the taller folk could attack over him. If'n they're using reach weapons, anyway.

Asimov | Hugh | AC 15/12/13 HP 29/29 d20+7=8 ;
Friday November 27th, 2020 12:50:42 AM
Asimov says, "I specifically made these gloves for today so that we would have an effective way of combating the swarms. Hopefully the berries are elsewhere but if we need to return to the tower I have them. Lead on Honor and I'll follow behind."

(Perception: 8/9 vs mechanical traps)

Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant, large (Kim) AC 16 Touch 12 FF14 HP 27/32 d20+2=8 ; d20+5=10 ;
Friday November 27th, 2020 4:42:07 AM

Mundhi follows Zeoll's suggested marching order, but is fine with it if Elron wants to precede her. She generally likes to go first or second, but considering yesterday's bitefest, she is less eager.

Survival: 8
Perception: 10

Honor Bright [AC 19; HP 24/24] (Kathy)
Friday November 27th, 2020 1:29:21 PM
Following the general consensus, Honor leads the way into the building. She passes by the two closed doors. "We can investigate those later, right?" she asks the group.

For now, she steps into the crossing hallway, keeping an eye out for lizard swarms.

DM Kathy
Friday November 27th, 2020 2:48:11 PM
You organize a marching order and head into the keep proper. Honor leads the way past two closed doors--you can always come back to them later.

Honor and Asimov step into the cross corridor. From here, you can look past the open double doors into the large space beyond. Pews of darkwood lie tipped over and covered in dust on either side of this ancient shrine. At the far end sits a large ceremonial anvil, but its surface is defaced and ruined.

And the map for reference.

Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant, large (Kim) AC 16 Touch 12 FF14 HP 27/32
Saturday November 28th, 2020 1:12:31 PM

"Move up, move up, I want to get in, too!" urges Mundhildur.

Zeoll the Greensinger | AC15, 16/16hp | Cayzle
Sunday November 29th, 2020 6:05:33 AM

Zeoll moves into the ruined manor, right behind Honor and Asimov. "Now miss," he says to Mundhi, "please be patient with the elderrly." (Zeoll looks, at most, middle aged.) "We have not the vast enerrgy of those who arre youthful and still grrowing."

SteveM - Elron | AC 21, HP 30/36
Sunday November 29th, 2020 10:44:41 PM
Since Mundhildur beat him to saying anything, Elron waits patiently for the bigger folk to pick a direction. He does kind of wonder what ancient religion was practiced here, and whether silverberries are an actual fruit. But he has no chance of recognizing it.

Asimov | Hugh | AC 15/12/13 HP 29/29 d20+6=8 ; d20+7=12 ;
Monday November 30th, 2020 4:09:41 AM
Stealth: 8; Perception: 12/13 vs mechanical traps

Asimov keeps to the front trying to be stealthy and keeping an eye out.

Honor Bright [AC 19; HP 24/24] (Kathy)
Monday November 30th, 2020 2:43:01 PM
Since the people behind her want to see, too, Honor moves into the little shrine, and steps away from the door.

DM Kathy
Monday November 30th, 2020 3:07:34 PM
The rest of the group is impatient to see the inside of the temple. Your DM will take this opportunity to remind everyone that in Pathfinder, you can move through squares occupied by allies. Elron, Mundhildur, and Zeoll do not have to wait; they can move past everyone and enter the room as they like.

Asimov does not spot any traps.

Once you get into the room:

Knowledge: Religion DC 10 Highlight to display spoiler: {This is a shrine to Domi.}

Perception DC 10 Highlight to display spoiler: {There are five small depressions on top of the anvil/altar.}

If you make the above Perception check, Knowledge: Religion DC 15 Highlight to display spoiler: {Such depressions often hold precious gems, but it would seem that this altar's gems have been taken.}

Perception DC 14 Highlight to display spoiler: {There's something weird about the ceiling. Is that...movement?}

And the map.

Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant, large (Kim) AC 16 Touch 12 FF14 HP 27/32 d20+5=16 ; d20+5=20 ; d8+3=10 ;
Monday November 30th, 2020 5:18:28 PM
Since others are ahead of her, Mundhildur focuses on the back and middle area if the room. "Look out! There's something on the ceiling!" Not waiting to take turns, she stabs upwards toward the middle part of what she sees moving, hitting AC 20 for 10 damage... and seeing if she can just leave the point of her long spear stuck in the critter, pinning it against the ceiling (unless it's like 50' high - vertical dimensions are requested).
---------------
Perception: 16

SteveM - Elron | AC 21, HP 30/36 d20+12=27 ; d20+12=14 ;
Tuesday December 1st, 2020 12:57:33 AM
(Perception rolls = 27 & 14)

Elron moves into the room, taking in some of the details but not seeing significance to them. He prepares to back up Mundhildur after she attacks the ceiling.

Asimov | Hugh | AC 15/12/13 HP 29/29 d20+4=5 ; d20+7=9 ; d20+7=22 ;
Tuesday December 1st, 2020 12:57:37 AM
Know religion: 5
Perception: 9
Perception: 22

Asimov says, "Is there something moving on the ceiling?" He readies an action to barbeque it with his glove if it proves hostile.

Honor Bright [AC 19; HP 24/24] (Kathy) d20+7=9 ; d20+3=6 ;
Tuesday December 1st, 2020 12:54:59 PM
Honor doesn't see much of anything, but Mundhildur seems to perceive a threat, and that's good enough for her. She draws Virtue and stands ready.

DM Kathy
Tuesday December 1st, 2020 3:53:12 PM
Mundhildur enters the shrine and immediately sees something up in the ceiling, which is 15 feet high. She stabs it with her spear, hitting it.

Several things happen at once. Mundhildur's companions ready to back her up. Two more creatures fly down from the ceiling. They look like octopi, their thin, hook-lined tentacles connected by a fleshy web.

You only see them for a moment, however, before the room is plunged into total darkness.

The map. Keep in mind that, without some way to see in the dark, you can't see anything in the room.

SteveM - Elron | AC 21, HP 30/36
Tuesday December 1st, 2020 11:22:04 PM
If Elron can't see, Elron can't fight effectively. He steps away from Mundhildur so he doesn't hit her by accident, thinks better of it, and heads for a corner so he'll be less exposed himself.

"This reminds me of the time me an' this fella were walking home through the woods one evening, and a storm rolled in. Almost like someone blew out the sun. So I says, 'It's gettin' dark, isn't it?' And my friend replies, 'I don't know -- I can't see.'"

Zeoll the Greensinger | AC15, 16/16hp | Cayzle
Tuesday December 1st, 2020 11:52:18 PM

Last round: Sight or not, Zeoll starts singing. +1 to attacks and damage, friends.

This round: Zeoll casts dancing lights to illuminate the area.

Asimov | Hugh | AC 15/12/13 HP 29/29
Wednesday December 2nd, 2020 2:22:17 AM
Would the act of dropping from the ceiling by the creatures trigger my ready action? If so I need to do burning hands for the 2 octopis.

Asimov uses his light emitter thingamabob to provide light equivalent a torch - 20 foot radius.

Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant, large (Kim) AC 16 Touch 12 FF14 HP 27/32 d20+6=24 ; d20+6=16 ; d8+4=7 ; d8+4=9 ;
Wednesday December 2nd, 2020 3:52:02 AM

As the tentacled critters descend, Mundhi can see the beginning of their descent until darkness takes over. Zeoll's quick action, nonetheless, enables her to target the nearest one for a pair of slams.
AC 24: 7 hp damage
AC 16: 9 hp damage
Doing so likely necessitates unpinning the one she initially stabbed. Oops?

Honor Bright [AC 19; HP 24/24] (Kathy)
Wednesday December 2nd, 2020 1:46:11 PM
"Darkness shall not prevail!" Honor casts Daylight on Virtue.

DM Kathy d20+7=15 ; d20+7=11 ;
Wednesday December 2nd, 2020 2:44:37 PM
Last round, Asimov's readied action did go off; please roll damage and let me know the save DC.

This round, Elron retreats to a corner, unable to see. Zeoll casts Dancing Lights, and Asimov uses his light emitter. Both effects help somewhat, changing the darkness to dim light, but you still can't see very well.

Then Honor casts Daylight, and all of a sudden her sword is glowing like a beacon, the magical darkness is completely gone, and the room is as bright as day--and how did she do that?

Mundhildur is then able to target a nearby creature (the yellow one) for a couple of slams, killing it. The wounded (pink) creature takes the opportunity to drop from the ceiling and attack! It flings itself at Mundhildur, but not hard enough to do damage.

Meanwhile, the third (aqua) creature moves to attack Asimov. it also misses.

And the map

SteveM - Elron | AC 21, HP 30/36 d20+5=14 ; d20+5=6 ; d4=3 ;
Wednesday December 2nd, 2020 11:16:48 PM
Elron takes a 5' step and starts whappin' away.

Hit AC 14 for 3 damage -- oops, should be AC 15 for 4 with Zeoll's bonuses, AC 17 if he flanks it with Mundhildur
Hit AC 6 for -- (natural 1)

Zeoll the Greensinger | AC15, 16/16hp | Cayzle d20=2 ;
Thursday December 3rd, 2020 12:21:12 AM
What are these things? Zeoll takes an action to ID them.

Base knowledge check is a raw 2, so that's a waste.

Everybody still gets +1 to hit and damage.

Asimov | Hugh | AC 15/12/13 HP 29/29 3d4=8 ;
Thursday December 3rd, 2020 1:50:18 AM
8 fire damage; DC 15 reflex save for half

Asimov starts working on getting Chompy back from being a bear trap.

Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant, large (Kim) AC 16 Touch 12 FF14 HP 27/32 d20+6=11 ; d20+6=23 ; d8+4=10 ;
Thursday December 3rd, 2020 4:50:59 AM

Mundhildur slams pinky - misses the first time (AC11), but connects on the follow-through (AC23 for 10hp damage). "What do you call these things?" she asks.

Honor Bright [AC 19; HP 24/24] (Kathy) d20+8=19 ; d8=7 ;
Thursday December 3rd, 2020 1:24:33 PM
Honor steps up to confront the creature harassing Asimov. She slashes out with Virtue.

[Hit AC 19 for 11 damage.]

DM Kathy d20+3=11 ;
Thursday December 3rd, 2020 3:07:14 PM
In the last round, Asimov's fire gauntlet damaged the turquoise creature. This round, Honor steps up and finishes it off.

Between them, Mundhildur and Elron finish off the pink creature.

All three creatures are dead; there don't seem to be any more. With a DC 11 Knowledge: Arcana check, you can tell that these are--or rather, were--Highlight to display spoiler: {darkmantles}.

SteveM - Elron | AC 21, HP 30/36 d20+12=32 ;
Thursday December 3rd, 2020 7:34:53 PM
Elron considers Mundhildur's question. What would you call an eight-tentacled flying creature of darkess? Darker octopus, a.k.a dark-ocs? "I'm purty sure they're octoflaps." He makes a mental note to thank Honor for the light but lets looking around take priority.

He looks around the rest of the room, taking in more than they were able to glimpse before the lights went out. (Perception = 32)

Asimov | Hugh | AC 15/12/13 HP 29/29 d20+10=24 ; d20+7=13 ;
Friday December 4th, 2020 3:12:51 AM
(Know: Arcana - 24)

Asimov says to Elron, "They actually have a name and that name is darkmantle. They like to grapple folks and cover their heads."

The technomancer then proceeds to look at the room (Perception: 13)

Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant, large (Kim) AC 16 Touch 12 FF14 HP 27/32 d20+2=22 ; d20+5=11 ; d20+1=10 ;
Friday December 4th, 2020 3:18:48 AM

"Octoflaps? Makes sense." After the flurry of battle has subsided, she looks around. "Say, isn't - or wasn't - this a place about Domi? You know, the brave god?" "What do you suppose these dents on the anvil here are for?" She stretches out her hand to place her fingertips in each of the indentations for a moment.

Zeoll the Greensinger | AC15, 16/16hp | Cayzle
Friday December 4th, 2020 6:22:14 AM
"OOH! I hate octoflaps! If I'd have known they werre octoflaps ... well, ooh, I would have been even morre irrate."

The liontaur winks at Asimov.

Honor Bright [AC 19; HP 24/24] (Kathy) d20+7=10 ;
Friday December 4th, 2020 12:46:00 PM
Honor has no idea what these creatures were.

She thinks, vaguely, that she has heard of "darkmantles," but she kind of prefers "octoflaps" to describe the creatures.

"Yes, it's a shrine to Domi," Honor confirms. "But I'm not sure what those indentations are for."

DM Kathy
Friday December 4th, 2020 2:32:22 PM
The excitement of the battle over, you look around the shrine. You don't really see anything you didn't see before. There are a few pews, knocked around in the battle, and the anvil/altar with five mysterious depressions in the top of it. You find no holy texts, or candles, or incense, and the darkmantles apparently didn't collect treasure.

Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant, large (Kim) AC 16 Touch 12 FF14 HP 27/32
Friday December 4th, 2020 3:54:50 PM

"Wait - darkmantle? That works, too, Asimov. Let's call them darkmantle octoflaps from now on."

"Maybe people made offerings to Domi representing bravery. Like, the sweat of battle, a braided lock of a hero's hair, a bit of treasure from the spoils of war, and... a dagger and, uh, a strong turnip? Or something. Or maybe there was a bowl with five legs that rested on the indentations."

Unless someone can add to her speculations, she says, "Very well. Let's see the next room." Considering the size of the hallways, she decides that shrinking down to her smaller 7'4" height would make some sense. Mundhildur gets 'small.'

SteveM - Elron | AC 21, HP 30/36
Saturday December 5th, 2020 1:13:03 PM
"Hey, we can look for a bowl with legs." There seems to be no further excitement to this room, so Elron's ready to move on.

Zeoll the Greensinger | AC15, 16/16hp | Cayzle d20+3=18
Sunday December 6th, 2020 11:56:37 PM
Zeoll looks at the altar and tries to figure it out, after praying for Guidance.

Know Religion 18

Asimov | Hugh | AC 15/12/13 HP 29/29 d20+7=22 ;
Monday December 7th, 2020 1:56:16 AM
(Perception: 22/ 23 vs mechanical traps)

Asimov keeps his eyes open for further threats as they explore.

Honor Bright [AC 19; HP 24/24] (Kathy)
Monday December 7th, 2020 2:25:29 PM
Virtue continues to glow, so Honor holds it up to help illuminate the room. But she doesn't see much there.

"It doesn't seem like there are any berries in here," she says. "We should probably move on."

DM Kathy
Monday December 7th, 2020 2:49:55 PM
Mundhildur isn't sure what the indentations on top of the altar are for, and suggests moving on. She makes herself smaller to make it easier to move about. Honor agrees that the group should move on, pointing out that there are no berries here.

Asimov sees no traps.

Zeoll suddenly remembers that altars like this sometimes have precious gems set into them. The indentations must be where the gems used to reside, but they are gone now.

Elron is also ready to move on, so you leave the altar and head back into the corridor. You can see a couple of doors to the south, and a bend in the corridor to the north. There are also the two closed doors you passed on your way in. Which of these would you like to investigate next?

And the map.

SteveM - Elron | AC 21, HP 30/36
Monday December 7th, 2020 8:47:34 PM
Elron's ready to follow where Honor leads, having recently decided that a good light source is worth more than he'd realized. But heading south now would mean putting less at their backs later -- assuming they haven't drawn attention already.

Asimov | Hugh | AC 15/12/13 HP 29/29 d20+7=26 ;
Tuesday December 8th, 2020 2:35:59 AM
Asimov says to Zeoll. "You seem to be knowledgable when it comes to nature. If you were the berries we needed where would you be hiding?"

(Perception: 26 / 27 vs Mechanical Traps)

He keeps an eye out for potential threats as they continue to explore.

Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant, large (Kim) AC 16 Touch 12 FF14 HP 27/32 d20+5=6 ;
Tuesday December 8th, 2020 3:56:15 AM

"Wouldn't the silverberries be outside somewhere, on a bush?" the Jotunar asks Zeoll when Asimov poses his question. She decides to peek around the corner into the next room as the group decides where to go next. Her longspear is ready for action if necessary.

Wait, is that a new stain on my dress? she wonders just as she gets in sight of the room
=======
Perception: 6 (nat 1)

Honor Bright [AC 19; HP 24/24] (Kathy)
Tuesday December 8th, 2020 12:59:16 PM
Mundhildur heads south, so Honor follows her.

DM Kathy
Tuesday December 8th, 2020 3:17:20 PM
Elron suggests going south, so Mundhildur does and Honor follows her.

Asimov looks, but sees no traps. He asks where the berries might be, and Mundhildur suggests that they might be outside the keep, rather than inside. However, you did have a chance to look at the surrounding countryside as you approached the keep, and you saw no sign of any berries. Or berry bushes.

Mundhildur peeks around the corner and sees a once-grand library, now in ruins. What was once a library is now a shattered mess with one corner being completely collapsed and dominated by a wide pool of stagnant water. Thick fungus grows on most of the books that still remain on the shelves lining the walls.

Updated map.

Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant, large (Kim) AC 16 Touch 12 FF14 HP 27/32 d20+5=25 ;
Tuesday December 8th, 2020 5:28:27 PM

"Books. Fungus. Standing water. How about someone who knows more about such come take a look?" She goes down the hallway just a little further to make it easier for others to get past her to inspect things, but keeping her head poked around so she can see and move in quickly if needed.

No longer concerned for the moment with the stain on her dress, and looking from a different perspective, perhaps she is better able to discern important details she overlooked when she first glanced in.
=============
Perception: 25 (nat. 20)

Asimov | Hugh | AC 15/12/13 HP 29/29 d20+7=15 ;
Wednesday December 9th, 2020 4:11:52 AM
Asimov says, "I thought the fungus was in the swamp, not here? That does not bode well for the prospect of berries."

(Perception: 15 / 16 vs mechanical traps)

SteveM - Elron | AC 21, HP 30/36 d20+12=14 ;
Wednesday December 9th, 2020 10:05:46 AM
"Someone who knows about moldy books? I suppose if I had books they might be moldy." Elron is happy to cautiously look around in the room.

(Perception = 14)

Honor Bright [AC 19; HP 24/24] (Kathy)
Wednesday December 9th, 2020 1:24:16 PM
Honor doesn't know much about mold, and she's not exactly the brains of the outfit, but she is happy to provide light as long as her spell lasts. She moves to the doorway of the library.

DM Kathy
Wednesday December 9th, 2020 2:53:34 PM
Mundhildur steps back, deferring to others who might know more about books and fungus.

That knowledge seems to be in short supply, however, although Asimov and Elron are happy to take a look while Honor lights the room. They don't see anything untoward, and Asimov sees no traps.

Mundhildur, taking a last look, does notice something. There is a single tome, lying on top of one of the bookshelves, that doesn't seem to have any fungus on it.

Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant, large (Kim) AC 16 Touch 12 FF14 HP 27/32
Wednesday December 9th, 2020 9:19:35 PM

Mundhi, noticing the clean tome, walks forward and retrieves it. "Maybe this one is new, or magically protected." She hands it over to Zeoll for him to take a look.

Asimov | Hugh | AC 15/12/13 HP 29/29 d20+8=28 ; d20+10=23 ; d20+8=28 ; d20+8=28 ; d20+8=21 ;
Thursday December 10th, 2020 6:39:36 AM
Asimov walks over to Zeoll and Munhildur and takes a look at the tome.

Appraise: 28 - value of tome
Know[arcana]: 23 - was it magically preserved
Know[dungeoneering]:28 - is the fungus some sort of cavern variety?
Know[engineering]: 28 - is there some non magical way to make a book proof against fungus
Know[history]: 21 - anything relevant about the author

SteveM - Elron | AC 21, HP 30/36 d20+12=32 ;
Thursday December 10th, 2020 11:34:38 AM
Elron doesn't pay much attention to the book. It's a book, after all. But while the eggheads are all focused on it, he keeps a look out for anything that decides to come their way.

Perception = 32

Honor Bright [AC 19; HP 24/24] (Kathy)
Thursday December 10th, 2020 11:56:12 AM
Honor doesn't really have anything to contribute except light, so she contributes that.

Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant, large (Kim) AC 16 Touch 12 FF14 HP 27/32
Thursday December 10th, 2020 3:18:30 PM

Munhildur finds it hard to contain her curiosity, so she does not bother doing so. "What do you think, Asimov? What kind of book is it? Does it have recipes? Maps? Incantatations?" Yes, she added an extra syllable to the word. "Things about silver berries?" she thinks to add to her line of questioning.

DM Kathy
Thursday December 10th, 2020 4:07:12 PM
Mundhildur retrieves the book and asks Zeoll about it, but the liontaur is oddly quiet.

Elron and Honor have nothing to add, but Asimov, looking at the book and the room, learns quite a few things.

First, the fungus in the room is hazardous. It gives off spores that can cause weakness and disorientation. Nobody should touch it.

The tome is beautifully illustrated and written in Dwarven. Based purely on its appearance, Asimov estimates its worth at 100 gold, but he doesn't speak Dwarven so he doesn't know what it says. It doesn't seem to have been magically protected, but it was on top of a shelf, rather than among the other books, so that might be how it escaped the fungus. There is a folded piece of paper tucked into the last page.

SteveM - Elron | AC 21, HP 30/36
Thursday December 10th, 2020 7:27:11 PM
"Put that egghead book down, boy. It's somethin' crazier than chicken scratch." Ok, so Elron may have glanced at it. He likes pictures.

He's not impatient about it, though. He knows the folks that do that sort of thing will figure out if it tells them about silver berries.

Zeoll the Greensinger | AC15, 16/16hp | Cayzle d20+4=23 ;
Thursday December 10th, 2020 11:55:19 PM
"In my younger days, I could not even read at all. I did not learn until later in life. But I'll take a look at this."

The linguistic liontaur prays and peruses the libram. 23

Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant, large (Kim) AC 16 Touch 12 FF14 HP 27/32
Friday December 11th, 2020 2:47:30 AM

"What is that piece of paper sticking out there?" Mundhildur asks. She takes thumb and forefinger to pinch the edge, and slides it out as others examine the rest. She unfolds the page to see what is on it. She can read common, giant and auran. If it is any of those languages, she reads it aloud. If not, she says, "Right, Elron, chicken scratchings. Eh, what do you make of this?" She asks as hands the paper to Asimov.

Asimov | Hugh | AC 15/12/13 HP 29/29 d20+10=28 ;
Friday December 11th, 2020 4:16:54 AM
(Linguistics: 28)

Asimov takes a look at the folded piece of paper. Is it also in Dwarven or is it in some other language?

Asimov then also tries to piece out the kind of things the book might be trying to convey. Do the pictures offer any insight into what the book might be about?

He tells the others, "Whatever you do don't touch the other books in that room. Also apparently this tome is worth approximately 100 gold"

Honor Bright [AC 19; HP 24/24] (Kathy)
Friday December 11th, 2020 2:46:22 PM
"Um....," Honor begins diffidently. "Um....I speak Dwarven. I mean, I can read it--I guess that's the important thing. Anyway, if you want to know what it says, I can tell you."

Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant, large (Kim) AC 16 Touch 12 FF14 HP 27/32 d2=1
Friday December 11th, 2020 3:06:09 PM

Unless Zeoll or Asimov have declared differently, if it's in Dwarven, she who deems herself in charge of the paper takes it from whoever is looking at it, hands it over to the woman with the glowing sword, and says, "Honor can do this. Here, Honor, what does it say?"

========
P.S. I accidentally posted the above text in the Die Rolls area, then deleted it and put it in the right spot. The deletion did not take, so I tried again, and rolled a not-for-anything-in-particular d2=1. Is that cheating? Will it get rid of the mislocated text? Let us see....

DM Kathy
Friday December 11th, 2020 3:25:25 PM
Elron advises putting the book down, but Zeoll looks at it anyway. From the way the text is laid out, you can tell it is probably a book of poems or songs. Looking at the illustrations, you can see that Domi is prominently featured.

That's about as far as Zeoll gets before Honor mentions that she can read Dwarven, and Mundhildur hands the book to her. Honor can tell that this is a book of hymns to Domi. Asimov had valued this at 100 gp, but it might be worth even more to a Dwarven cleric, if you could find one.

Meanwhile, Asimov and Mundhildur are examining the piece of paper. It is not in Dwarven; the writing appears magical. It is a magic scroll of some kind; a Spellcraft check or a Read Magic spell will tell you more.

Zeoll the Greensinger | AC15, 16/16hp | Cayzle d20+6=13 ;
Saturday December 12th, 2020 10:01:20 AM

Zeoll prays for Guidance and reads the scroll ... Spellcraft 13

SteveM - Elron | AC 21, HP 30/36
Saturday December 12th, 2020 2:03:26 PM
Unless that's a scroll of berry finding, Elron's confused. He hopes it's a scroll of berry finding. A ranger he knew used to find the best berries. . .

Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant, large (Kim) AC 16 Touch 12 FF14 HP 27/32
Saturday December 12th, 2020 3:49:18 PM

"Maybe you can translate one of the Domi hymns for us, Honor," Mundhildur suggests, as Asimov puzzles over the magic scribblings. "Domi is a pretty good fellow, after all."

Asimov | Hugh | AC 15/12/13 HP 29/29 d20+10=24 ;
Monday December 14th, 2020 5:54:12 AM
(Spellcraft: 24)

Asimov takes a look at the scroll

Honor Bright [AC 19; HP 24/24] (Kathy)
Monday December 14th, 2020 2:13:42 PM
Honor leafs through the book. "Oh! Here's a Dwarven version of 'Domi, Brave and Mighty.' I didn't even know there was a Dwarven version of 'Domi, Brave and Mighty.'" Because Mundhildur had asked, she sings a little of the hymn. Her voice is pleasant, though untrained.

DM Kathy
Monday December 14th, 2020 3:18:15 PM
Honor and Mundhildur continue to be interested in the book.

Elron isn't especially interested in the scroll, unless it's a scroll of Berry Finding, which seems unlikely.

Zeoll isn't quite able to puzzle out the scroll, but Asimov realizes it is a scroll of Spirtual Weapon.

With that, it seems your examination of the ruined library is complete. There is a closed door across the hall, a couple of closed doors up near the temple, and a bend in the hall to the north. Where would you like to explore next?

Zeoll the Greensinger | AC15, 16/16hp | Cayzle d20+7=17 ; d20+7=11 ;
Monday December 14th, 2020 4:04:24 PM

Zeoll quietly prays and listens (and sniffs) at each of the two doors:

Perception 17, 11

SteveM - Elron | AC 21, HP 30/36
Monday December 14th, 2020 9:34:31 PM
Elron stays quiet while Zeoll listens. Odd behavior for him. He really wants to know if Zeoll can smell berries.

Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant, large (Kim) AC 16 Touch 12 FF14 HP 27/32
Tuesday December 15th, 2020 12:26:15 AM

"Wait, what about this door?" Mundhi asks Honor as the rest move back the way they came. "Want me to open it?" she asks. If it seems good to the aasimar, she uses the handle, if a handle or latch there is, and pushes it open - even though most everyone else has headed back the way they came. But if Honor says not too, then she sighs, and says. "All right. I shall wait, then. Just wait, Mundhildur. Sit on your hands if you must," she instructs herself. She does not actually sit on her hands though.

Asimov | Hugh | AC 15/12/13 HP 29/29 d20+7=26 ;
Tuesday December 15th, 2020 2:36:07 AM
Asimov says, "Is Spiritual weapon on the paladin list? If so maybe Honor should have the scroll"

He keeps an eye open as Mundi opens the door.

Peception: 26 / 27 vs mechanical traps

Honor Bright [AC 19; HP 24/24] (Kathy)
Tuesday December 15th, 2020 12:17:14 PM
Honor frowns a little at the scroll. "I don't think so," she says. "I think that one is just for priests. But we can put it back in the book for now."

Honor slips the scroll back into the book, then carefully places the book in her backpack.

To Mundhildur, she replies, "Yes, we might as well check this while we're here."

DM Kathy
Tuesday December 15th, 2020 3:04:38 PM
Zeoll says a little prayer, then goes to sniff at each of the two doors. This throws his DM into a welter of indecision, because there are three closed doors that you know of.

From the closed door across the hall, you get a faint whiff of dust.

From the southernmost of the two closed doors across from the temple, you smell mildew.

From the northernmost of the two closed doors across from the temple, you smell dust and decay.

Meanwhile, Asimov and Honor conclude that nobody in the party can cast the scroll at present, so Honor tucks it away, along with the book.

Mundhildur goes to open the door across the hall (the one that smelled faintly of dust), and finds that it is locked.

The map, for reference.

SteveM - Elron | AC 21, HP 30/36
Tuesday December 15th, 2020 6:28:34 PM
Elron doesn't want the party too split up, and was kind of under the impression that they'd be checking out the south end of the building first, so he sticks with Mundhildur. "We ought to open it," he tells her, "but we ought to have folks here first,"

Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant, large (Kim) AC 16 Touch 12 FF14 HP 27/32 d20+5=21 ; d20+5=22 ; d8+3=9 ; d8+3=8 ;
Tuesday December 15th, 2020 10:07:15 PM

"That's a good idea, Elron. It is locked. Maybe someone like Asimov can unlock it, or I can try to bash it open. Let's give him a crack at it first." She waits to see if it might be unlocked. If so, she will go in after it is opened. If not, she tries to bash it down.

Slam AC 21 9 hp
Slam AC 22 8 hp
Or, is there another methodology to be used in bashing a door down?

Asimov | Hugh | AC 15/12/13 HP 29/29 d20+8=24 ;
Wednesday December 16th, 2020 2:25:21 AM
Asimov goes to the locked door and attempts to open the door (Disable Device: 24)

Honor Bright [AC 19; HP 24/24] (Kathy)
Wednesday December 16th, 2020 1:43:23 PM
Honor watches Mundhildur and Asimov try to get the door open.

Asimov knows about all kinds of different mechanical things, she assures herself. Just because he can open locked doors--that isn't suspicious. Necessarily.

DM Kathy
Wednesday December 16th, 2020 3:15:30 PM
Elron suggests getting this southern door open before moving north to explore further. Mundhildur tries to bash the door down, with limited success. Asimov studies the mechanism and finds it to be quite simple. He is easily able to get it open. Honor watches nearby, suppressing her paladinly suspicion of people who can open locked doors.

On the other side of the door is a small sitting room, complete with a single table and a pair of chairs, both in relatively good condition. Resting atop the table are the bones of a bird next to a crude knife and a cracked mug.

SteveM - Elron | AC 21, HP 30/36 d20+12=13 ;
Wednesday December 16th, 2020 6:21:03 PM
Elron enters and looks around the sitting room, looking to see what he can find. (Perception = 13) However, his reaction to the bones resting on the table top prevents him from doing very well at it. That knife would make very painful wounds, crude as it is.

"Yah know, I thought there'd be more to the south of us."

Zeoll the Greensinger | AC15, 16/16hp | Cayzle
Wednesday December 16th, 2020 11:58:42 PM

"Mmmm tastes like --"

The liontaur looks at Elron and begins to regret the many wings he has had in his life.

Next door?

Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant, large (Kim) AC 16 Touch 12 FF14 HP 27/32
Thursday December 17th, 2020 4:13:26 AM

"Looks like that meal was eaten a little while ago," she comments. Is the door to the north visible within the room? If the room does not fill the whole space as shown on the map, then she checks out the door, and attempts to open it because she is such a curious person, and where are those berries for the poor daughter of the nobleman?

Asimov | Hugh | AC 15/12/13 HP 29/29 d20+7=20 ; d12=1 ;
Thursday December 17th, 2020 7:44:55 AM
Asimov says, "Just point me at the next locked door and I'll give it a shot."

He off course inspects the next door first just to be on the safe side (Perception 20 or 21 vs mechanical traps)

Honor Bright [AC 19; HP 24/24] (Kathy)
Thursday December 17th, 2020 2:53:52 PM
Honor glances around the room, but sees nothing of interest. "No berries here," she sighs.

DM Kathy
Thursday December 17th, 2020 4:52:45 PM
The scene in the sitting room presents an unsettling reminder for Elron, but is otherwise unremarkable.

However, there is a door here, in the south wall, which your silly DM neglected to mention, or include on the map.

Asimov approaches the door, and, finding no traps, cautiously opens it. The small cramped chamber on the other side of the door holds two beds, a small sack, and an array of old tools.

Updated map

Zeoll the Greensinger | AC15, 16/16hp | Cayzle d20+7=14 ;
Thursday December 17th, 2020 5:03:33 PM

Zeoll feels a little constricted in here, with the rooms and passages not made with taurs in mind.

Still, he peeks in at the beds, and under them, and at the sack, etc.

Perception 14

"It's all dusty in herre," he complains. "Not smelling much like berrries grrowing anywherre inside. Maybe the rroof?"

SteveM - Elron | AC 21, HP 30/36 d20+12=25 ;
Thursday December 17th, 2020 5:22:27 PM
"We got anothah room!" Elron happily goes over and checks out the door, like he's seen Asimov do, but with no ability to deal with any devices that may be there (Perception = 25).

Asimov | Hugh | AC 15/12/13 HP 29/29 d20+7=19 ; d20+8=22 ;
Friday December 18th, 2020 3:31:59 AM
(Perception: 19)
(Appraise : 22)

Asimov checks out the new room looking for berries and other valuables

Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant, large (Kim) AC 16 Touch 12 FF14 HP 27/32 d20+5=10 ; d20+5=18 ; d8+3=6 ; d20+5=20 ; d20+5=15 ; d8+3=8 ; d8+3=7 ;
Friday December 18th, 2020 10:14:57 AM
Mundhi provides backup for Elron. If he has trouble with the door, she asks Asimov to fiddle with it.

If he is not around to do so, then she tries to open it the conventional way, and, if needed, the bashing way. First slam-bash is ineffectual. Second AC 18 for 6 hp. Let's try another round of that. AC 20 for 8 hp, AC 15 for 7 hp. She does so enjoy bashing.

By the way, Mundhi did not bash the other door earlier, as Asimov took care of it, so the conditions for needing to bash were removed. This time, only if Elron or Asimov can't do it do we resort to the Mundhildur Solution.

Honor Bright [AC 19; HP 24/24] (Kathy)
Friday December 18th, 2020 2:45:20 PM
Honor moves to wait in the sitting room while her friends investigate the sleeping chamber.

DM Kathy
Friday December 18th, 2020 3:03:00 PM
Asimov already opened the door to the room, so Mundhildur can save her bashing for another time. Asimov examines the tools on one of the beds, and finds them to be Masterwork-quality stonemason's tools. He looks in the sack and finds several coins and a single ruby.

Meanwhile, Zeoll, uncomfortable in the cramped quarters, looks under the beds. Under one, you find a rusty iron key. Under the other, you find a weird-looking sword that Elron is able to identify as a double chicken saber.

Asimov | Hugh | AC 15/12/13 HP 29/29
Monday December 21st, 2020 2:25:56 AM
Asimov says to everyone, "Look Masterwork stonemason's tools, coins and a ruby!"

"You got a key Zeoll? Wonder what it is to?" he says to the Taur

To Elron he says "And you found a weapon appropriate to your unique-ness. It is only fitting that you wield a double chicken saber."

Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant, large (Kim) AC 16 Touch 12 FF14 HP 27/32
Thursday December 24th, 2020 2:24:21 AM

"True treasures, Asimov. Elron - show us how to use that thing," Mundhildur encourages. She checks out the dust on top of high bits of furniture.

SteveM - Elron | AC 21, HP 30/36 d20+3=6 ;
Friday December 25th, 2020 12:59:37 AM
"Well, o' course I know how to use the double chicken sabre -- it's good for disarmin' folks. But it don't whap. It cuts. Here, I'll show ya."

Elron makes a show of disarming whoever volunteers, but is not very successful at it (even assuming the weapon is his size).

Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant, large (Kim) AC 16 Touch 12 FF14 HP 27/32
Saturday December 26th, 2020 1:40:32 PM

Mundhildur holds her longspear off to one side to give Elron a chance to try to disarm her. As he missed entirely the stationary shaft, she adjusts her stance so the longspear is vertically held positioned 45 degrees in front of her body, and says, "Try again. You were just warming up, Elron." She holds her hand on the shaft a bit loosely (take a +2 on the attempt to disarm, say).

SteveM - Elron | AC 21, HP 30/36 d20+3=23 ;
Monday December 28th, 2020 7:06:52 PM
Elron tries to demonstrate the double chicken sabre again at Mundhildur's urging, this time sending the weapon she was holding flying. (Well, a couple of feet.)

Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant, large (Kim) AC 16 Touch 12 FF14 HP 27/32
Tuesday December 29th, 2020 6:17:53 PM

"Oh my - well chickened!" Mundhildur, not expecting quite so efficient a demonstration. She goes to take a look at the shaft of her longspear. "Looks like that thing was meant for you, Elron."

Zeoll the Greensinger | AC15, 16/16hp | Cayzle
Monday January 4th, 2021 9:26:18 AM

Zeoll opens his eyes with a start. "Oh me," he says, "I seem to have nodded off. This body is young, but sometimes the mind is still old, alas. Can someone tell us what's up at the moment, anyway? Thanks!"

Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant, large (Kim) AC 16 Touch 12 FF14 HP 27/32
Monday January 4th, 2021 12:38:36 PM

"Well, Zeoll," Mundhildur tries to recap some highlights for the sleepy liontaur, "I figure you remember the spidery tower. And the - what was it, stables next to it [yellow room on map]. Then through a little room and hallway it opened up into a little Domi chapel - I figure it was Domi, anyway, where the darkmantle octoflaps tried to attack us [pink room on map]. There was a stone with 5 indentations in it.

"In the next room [light blue on map] we found on a top shelf in the mainly mildewy library a clean and dry dwarf hymnbook to help worship Domi - Honor sang a little from it - and a scroll inside it that Asimov figures is to cast Spiritual Weapon, whatever that is.

"Across from the library was a small dining room [lavender on map] with some old bird bones left on a plate. We found a room [green on map] with two beds and some old tools. Masterwork stonemason's tools, and a sack with coins and a pretty red gem - a ruby. Elron tried out a double chicken saber with which he was able to disarm me of my longspear, after a warm up attempt.

"I heard you found a rusty key - in the other room [light magenta on map]? So I just left the bedroom to rejoin you. Let's look at the next room through that door [atm white on map]. I'll stay here in the hallway unless you need me, because it's getting crowded."

Mundhildur may have gotten a few details out of order, but should have reported the gist of it.

Honor Bright [AC 19; HP 24/24] (Kathy)
Monday January 4th, 2021 1:06:59 PM
"And we're looking for berries," Honor adds to Mundhildur's recap. "Not with a lot of success, but there are still rooms to explore!"

DM Kathy
Monday January 4th, 2021 1:14:25 PM
With Mundhildur's help, Elron demonstrates the use of the double-chicken saber.

Asimov wonders aloud what Zeoll's key might open.

But for now, you seem to have investigated this end of the keep, and you're ready to move on.

Zeoll tries the southernmost of the two remaining doors. It opens into a cloakroom, once used to store the traveling cloaks, coats, and hats of visitors to the keep. Now only a few moth-eaten rags hang on the pegs and a single soiled hat rests on the table.

The map, for reference.

Asimov | Hugh | AC 15/12/13 HP 29/29
Monday January 4th, 2021 1:14:53 PM
Asimov chimes in, "I still say Elron was meant to wield a double chicken saber."

SteveM - Elron | AC 21, HP 30/36
Monday January 4th, 2021 9:36:52 PM
"I'll be happy to take the double chicken sabre," Elron agrees. "Guess we're headed to the north end of the keep next?"

Honor Bright [AC 19; HP 24/24] (Kathy)
Tuesday January 5th, 2021 1:22:22 PM
"Disarming opponents sounds nice," Honor agrees. "I mean, I don't think I'd be very good at it. But yes, you should hang onto it. Is there anything interesting in this room?"

Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant, large (Kim) AC 16 Touch 12 FF14 HP 27/32 d20+5=21 ;
Tuesday January 5th, 2021 1:56:44 PM

Mundhi decides she wants to see what's in the room, so squeezes by whom she needs to in order to inspect. She lifts the hat and looks it over and under. She looks under the table. If there is a carpet, she lifts it up to see if there is a trap door. If no carpet, is there a trap door anyway? What's on the walls? How about in the rags hanging on the pegs? Any loose change or silver berries in what's left of the pockets?

If she finds anything of interest, she tells others. If not, she says, "Onward," and exits to go up the hallway to the edge of the next unexplored room to the north.
=======
Perception: 21

DM Kathy
Tuesday January 5th, 2021 2:46:53 PM
After some discussion, Elron decides to keep the double-chicken sabre. At least for now.

Meanwhile, Mundhildur decides to search the cloakroom, so she is the one who finds the berries. Well, perhaps "berries" is overstating it. The desiccated corpses of what used to be berries.

In the southeast corner of the room is a small sprig from a vine. It’s very long dead and has the husks of 2 very small, shrivelled berries attached. They are in such poor condition that It’s unclear what type of vine or berries these may be.

There is nothing else of interest in the room.

Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant, large (Kim) AC 16 Touch 12 FF14 HP 27/32
Tuesday January 5th, 2021 5:36:30 PM

"Berries! Very sad berries, but here are two of them. On a dead sprig. Maybe a druid could fix them," she offers. "Who wants to carry these?" She offers them to the first claimant.

"Let's go find some better ones," Mundhildur recommends. After passing on the plant tissue, she heads onward to find more.

SteveM - Elron | AC 21, HP 30/36 d20+3=14 ;
Tuesday January 5th, 2021 6:57:49 PM
Elron accepts the berries from Munchildur and looks at them closely before attempting to hand them off to Zeoll (who he figures has a knack for plants or once-plants). He tries to figure out what kind of berry they are.

Knowledge, nature = 14

Zeoll the Greensinger | AC15, 16/16hp | Cayzle d20+11=29 ;
Tuesday January 5th, 2021 7:10:06 PM

"Oh ho, what have we herre?" Zeoll asks ... and then sets out to answer his own question.

He says a prayer for Guidance and considers the berries ... Knowledge Nature 29!

Hmmm ... are these the kind of berries the party seeks?

Asimov | Hugh | AC 15/12/13 HP 29/29 d20+7=9 ;
Wednesday January 6th, 2021 1:26:18 AM
(Perception: 9)

Asimov says, "Those Berries look like they've seen better days. I have a food detoxifier design I can build tomorrow. It functions like purify food and drink. Do you think it might help those berries any?"

Honor Bright [AC 19; HP 24/24] (Kathy)
Wednesday January 6th, 2021 1:36:39 PM
"I don't know." Honor is skeptical. She gives a wry smile. "We may need a Raise Dead spell. But I suppose it's worth a try."

Zeoll the Greensinger | AC15, 16/16hp | Cayzle
Wednesday January 6th, 2021 1:40:02 PM

"Morre to the point, if this is the rright plant, then it is a clue and a confiirrmation. Someone valued this vine well enough to save it and brring it up herre. And if it is the rright varriety, then we have hope to find morre."

DM Kathy
Wednesday January 6th, 2021 2:29:48 PM
The discovery of berries--no matter their condition--gives the group some encouragement. Mundhildur hands them to Elron, who passes them off to Zeoll.

The liontaur studies the vine and berries, but can determine nothing. It's just been too long since this thing was alive.

Asimov offers the use of a food purifier in the morning, but nobody is sure whether it will work.

[OOC: You guys now know as much as I know about the berries. There's no more information in this part of the module.]

Zeoll the Greensinger | AC15, 16/16hp | Cayzle
Wednesday January 6th, 2021 3:04:02 PM

"Well. shall we prress on then, my frriends?" asks the liontaur.

SteveM - Elron | AC 21, HP 30/36
Wednesday January 6th, 2021 5:58:52 PM
"North it is!" Elron doesn't even try to tell a joke to lighten the mood -- those dried berries have already done that.

Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant, large (Kim) AC 16 Touch 12 FF14 HP 27/32
Wednesday January 6th, 2021 7:54:14 PM

Mundhildur is ahead of the game. She already went north to check out the northernmost small room, and look over her shoulder at the larger room.

Asimov | Hugh | AC 15/12/13 HP 29/29 d20+7=13 ;
Thursday January 7th, 2021 1:17:03 AM
(Perception: 13)

Asimov keeps his eyes peeled as they move to new rooms

Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant, large (Kim) AC 16 Touch 12 FF14 HP 27/32 d20+5=6 ;
Thursday January 7th, 2021 3:11:49 PM

Adding a miserable perception roll (6) for Mundhildur. "Hey, I have a snag on my little fingernail!" She works on carefully biting it off so it does no further damage.

Honor Bright [AC 19; HP 24/24] (Kathy)
Thursday January 7th, 2021 4:17:56 PM
"Yes, let's keep looking," Honor says. "Surely there's a better specimen around here somewhere."

DM Kathy
Thursday January 7th, 2021 5:00:10 PM
You decide to head north. There is, of course, another door just to the north of the door you just opened, so you try that first--but it seems stuck. A Strength check might be able to dislodge it.

Meanwhile, Mundhildur moves around the corner to see what she can see. She finds a long corridor, leading to where she knows there are bats. A door leads to that area; another door leads back out into the courtyard. And there is a door immediately to Mundhildur's north.

The updated map.

SteveM - Elron | AC 21, HP 30/36 d20=1 ;
Thursday January 7th, 2021 11:22:58 PM
Not one to leave an unopened door behind him, Elron tries to get the stuck door to budge. "Now that, I say, that is a stuck door."

Strength check = 1

Asimov | Hugh | AC 15/12/13 HP 29/29 d20+1=6 ;
Friday January 8th, 2021 12:09:05 AM
Strength : 6

"I agree that door really is stuck" he says to Elron.

"Munhildur would you like to give it a try?" he asks the Giantess

Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant, large (Kim) AC 16 Touch 12 FF14 HP 27/32 d20+5=16 ; d20+5=15 ; d8+3=4 ; d8+3=4 ; d20+5=20 ; d20+5=9 ; d8+3=5 ; d20+5=23 ; d20+5=16 ; d8+3=5 ; d8+3=8 ; d20+5=20 ;
Friday January 8th, 2021 2:42:22 AM

Hearing someone calling for her to help with a door, Mundhi retraces her steps. "Let's see if I can get it to budge." She twice slams it: AC 16 for 4 hp, and AC 15 for 4 hp.

If it does not budge, she changes her angle. "Let's give that another try." AC 20 for 5 hp.

If it still will not open, then she says, "Give me room," grows to a large size, and rebashes. AC 23 for 5 hp. AC 16 for 8 hp.

Should it still be stuck, she says, "Well, maybe we can chop it down."

If / when it opens, she looks ahead, then upwards, then down, then right, and left. Perception 20.

Status: If door opened during first two pairs of attempts, then she is size medium (albeit 7'4" and 372 lbs 'medium'). If the 3rd pair of slams are necessary, the Mundhildur is size large (10'5" and 1,072 lbs)

========
Addendum: She will let someone else by her once the door is open, especially if she is large sized.

Zeoll the Greensinger | AC15, 16/16hp | Cayzle d20+7=9 ;
Friday January 8th, 2021 7:02:10 AM

Zeoll stands back and lets his younger, brawnier friends force the door.

"Maybe it is a pull doorr," he offers, teasing.

He keeps alert for danger, seeing as this can't be a quiet activity.

Perception 9. Too noisy to hear intruders! No wait, WE are the intruders!

"I hear intrruderrs!" Zeoll says, smiling.

Honor Bright [AC 19; HP 24/24] (Kathy) d20+3=11 ;
Friday January 8th, 2021 12:07:58 PM
"I don't think we need to bash it in," Honor says. "It's stuck; if we give it a good pull, we may be able to get it to open. Like the tower door."

Honor pulls at the door, but without much success [Strength check 11].

Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant, large (Kim) AC 16 Touch 12 FF14 HP 27/32 d20+3=16 ;
Friday January 8th, 2021 7:46:52 PM

"Very well, I will try pulling it," Mundhi answers Honor. She does so - strength check 16.

DM Kathy
Friday January 8th, 2021 9:05:59 PM
Elron and Asimov try, but can't get the door open. Zeoll suggests they try pulling instead of pushing.

Mundhildur starts bashing the door, but at Honor's suggestion, stops bashing to give it a good, hard tug.

It comes open.

This chamber was once used as a waiting room for the keep’s guests. The once-elegant furniture is now rotting and moth-eaten. The mummified remains of a dwarf rest in the center of the chamber. Wearing the garb of a blacksmith, the dwarf has the shattered shards of a glass vial in one hand and a scrap of ancient parchment in the other.

SteveM - Elron | AC 21, HP 30/36 d20+12=17 ;
Sunday January 10th, 2021 2:13:52 PM
Elron can't hear any intruders down the hallway he's in, but Zeoll's over by the courtyard. Well, we've opened a small room, and Zeoll's a big fella. He can watch the courtyard.

When he gets his chance to look around the room, Elron's still somewhat distracted worrying about the intruders. (Perception = 17) As usual, he leaves the reading -- especially of dwarf -- for the brainy folks.

Asimov | Hugh | AC 15/12/13 HP 29/29 d20+10=22 ; d20+7=16 ; d20+10=13 ;
Monday January 11th, 2021 1:45:51 AM
Asimov checks out the parchment in the mumified dwarf's hand and the potion bottle

(Perception: 16 on both)
(Linguistics: 22 on the parchment)
(Spellcraft : 13 on potion bottle)

Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant, large (Kim) AC 16 Touch 12 FF14 HP 27/32 d20+5=24 ;
Monday January 11th, 2021 2:31:31 AM

Mundhildur lets the others take a look through the room first, then follows them up just in case any detail may have been overlooked. Including checking out the rotting furniture to see if there is any loose change, or berries, or anything else potentially useful.

Perception: 24

Honor Bright [AC 19; HP 24/24] (Kathy)
Monday January 11th, 2021 2:04:34 PM
"Oh. What happened here?" Honor asks. She waits as Asimov tries to decipher the clues.

DM Kathy
Monday January 11th, 2021 2:25:37 PM
Asimov examines the parchment and the bottle. You can tell right away that the parchment is written in Dwarven, and you remember that Honor reads and understands that language. The bottle is trickier. Any remaining liquid has long since dried up, and there isn't much residue left. It's logical to assume that it may have been some kind of poison, but you aren't sure.

Elron and Mundhildur, meanwhile, are looking around the room. You both notice that the dwarf has an unusual light hammer in his belt, with religious motifs carved on it. It doesn't seem to be a masterwork weapon, but the fancy carving may make it worth something.

SteveM - Elron | AC 21, HP 30/36
Monday January 11th, 2021 9:31:14 PM
"Hey, are those symbols on th' hammer that same Domi fella ya said th'anvil in th'othah room was for?" Elron seems to recall odd depressions being on the anvil, but doesn't think a dwarf could have dented it with this hammer..

Zeoll the Greensinger | AC15, 16/16hp | Cayzle
Monday January 11th, 2021 11:58:28 PM

"Well, mission aside, we should give this old fellow a decent burrial, rright? I used to honorr Domi. I bet I could manage a prrayerr orr two, if this old brrain of mine is up to the task."

"I met him, once, you know. Domi. Verry nice guy."

Zeoll is suggesting that they pause in exploring, carry the dead dwarf outside, and do right by him.

[OOC: Just slipped in before deadline, woot!]

Asimov | Hugh | AC 15/12/13 HP 29/29
Tuesday January 12th, 2021 1:31:01 AM
Asimov takes the scroll to Honor and says, "Look more Dwarven writing. Can you tell me what it says? As for what was in the bottle well maybe it was a poison? I can't be sure though. I'd be okay giving this dwarf a proper burial"

Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant, large (Kim) AC 16 Touch 12 FF14 HP 27/32
Tuesday January 12th, 2021 6:09:57 AM

"You met Domi?!" asks Mundhildur. "How old are you, anyway, Zeoll?" she asks the liontaur. "Yes, certainly, let us bury this poor fellow."

She takes the blanket she had been planning to use against the spiders, and wraps the bones in it, tucking everything in. She tosses the bundle over her shoulder. "Let's go." She leads the way back outside, and looks for a suitable burial spot. "Where to, Zeoll?"

Honor Bright [AC 19; HP 24/24] (Kathy)
Tuesday January 12th, 2021 1:19:36 PM
Honor takes the parchment from Asimov and reads it. "Forgive me Domi, father of the forge, my toils shall never be enough." She looks up. "Oh, no. The poor man. Do you think he poisoned himself?"

Zeoll the Greensinger | AC15, 16/16hp | Cayzle d20+11=12 ;
Tuesday January 12th, 2021 2:27:36 PM

"Surre, I've been arround the Wold a time orr two, good Mundhi!" says Zeoll.

Honor mentions suicide, and Zeoll shakes his head.

"Well, even if the fellow was sufferring and not in his rright mind, he still deserrves the rrespect of a decent burrial. Under the trees outside there will be nice. I'll trry to find a spot that will be easierr to dig without hurrting any nearrby rroots too much."

Know Nature (with Guidance) to find a good spot: 12. Oh well.

DM Kathy
Tuesday January 12th, 2021 2:54:12 PM
Elron wonders about the symbols on the hammer, which do indeed prove to belong to Domi.

Zeoll after letting slip that he once met the god in question, suggests a proper burial. Munhdildur and Asimov agree.

Honor is able to translate the parchment, which strongly suggests the dwarf killed himself.

You decide to take the time to lay the dwarf to rest. You troop outside, but the packed earth of the courtyard seems like a poor choice for a final resting spot.

Beyond the courtyard, however, at the entrance to the keep, are those two statues. One of them is a crumbled ruin, but the other is a dwarf holding a hammer. Perhaps near there?

If not, the surrounding area is mostly grassland; it wouldn't be hard to dig a grave and perhaps mark it with a simple cairn.

SteveM - Elron | AC 21, HP 30/36
Tuesday January 12th, 2021 11:42:55 PM
Now why would a dwarf kill hisself, Elron wonders. There has to be a story here.

As for burying the remains, Elron readily pitches in to help, but has no idea what sort of service would be appropriate.

Zeoll the Greensinger | AC15, 16/16hp | Cayzle
Wednesday January 13th, 2021 12:45:06 AM

Near the dwarf statue would be a good choice, Zeoll says. He lends his labor willingly.

After the dwarf is at rest, Zeoll offers a prayer:

Oh mighty Domi
Herre is yourr own dwarrf
Help him to Garrgul's rrest.

Later, Zeoll adds, "I met Lorrd Garrgul too. A couple times, to plead forr the life of a dead frriend."

Asimov | Hugh | AC 15/12/13 HP 29/29
Wednesday January 13th, 2021 1:45:12 AM
Asimov says, "I wonder what this guy was trying to create in his forge that he felt he couldn't hack it? I mean he said forgive me Domi, father of my forge, my labors will never be enough. Do you think we might find a forge or some schematics as we explore?"

Honor Bright [AC 19; HP 24/24] (Kathy)
Wednesday January 13th, 2021 1:20:39 PM
Honor helps lay the dwarf to rest. She retrieves the book of hymns from her pack and sings one at the graveside.

Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant, large (Kim) AC 16 Touch 12 FF14 HP 27/32
Wednesday January 13th, 2021 2:34:57 PM

Mundhildur helps dig the grave. "Good prayer, Zeoll." She harmonizes as Honor sings.

DM Kathy
Wednesday January 13th, 2021 3:13:05 PM
You pause in your explorations long enough to bury the remains of the dwarf. You bury him near the dwarf statue, and lay his spirit to rest with a hymn and a prayer.

Once that task is done, you are ready to resume your explorations. You have only the northern part of the keep left to explore--and the tower full of spiders. Where would you like to go next?

The map, as a reminder.

SteveM - Elron | AC 21, HP 30/36
Wednesday January 13th, 2021 6:12:42 PM
"I think, I say, I think we ought to explore th' north part o' th' keep before we go back into th' tower. Mostly so's if we find anything there that might help chase th' spiders out o' th' tower we can use it. Thar's two ways into th' keep -- I say we use the one we've already tried."

Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant, large (Kim) AC 16 Touch 12 FF14 HP 27/32 d20+3=6 ;
Thursday January 14th, 2021 12:16:32 AM

"And what if we could get the bats to eat the spiders?" asks Mundhildur. "Sleep well, dwarf whose name we do not know. May Domi know your name."

She had used the blanket to convey the bones to the burial site, but had removed the bones from the blanket and laid the remains within the shallow grave. She folds up the blanket again, then joins her companions as they return to the building - this time to the door about in the middle of the hallway just south of the northernmost room. She looks to see if she can tell which way the door opens, then pushes if it opens away from her, or pulls if it opens toward her. She doesn't use her full strength, apparently. [strength check 6]

Of course, she does not try to open the door until most of the crew is nearby.

Asimov | Hugh | AC 15/12/13 HP 29/29
Thursday January 14th, 2021 4:44:13 AM
Asimov says, "Mayhap we'll find the forge in the northern section? I'm really curious to learn what the Dwarf we found was working on."

Zeoll the Greensinger | AC15, 16/16hp | Cayzle
Thursday January 14th, 2021 5:35:46 AM

"Norrtherrn section sounds like a plan."

Honor Bright [AC 19; HP 24/24] (Kathy)
Thursday January 14th, 2021 2:13:36 PM
"North it is." Honor moves to back up Mundhildur.

DM Kathy
Thursday January 14th, 2021 3:24:17 PM
You decide to postpone a return to Spider Tower for now, in favor of exploring the parts of the keep you haven't seen yet. Mundhildur returns to the northern hallway and tries the door.

It opens easily enough. The small study on the other side of the door looks like it hasn’t been used in some time. An old stone desk sits in the center of the chamber, scratched and cracked in many places.

To the west is an open doorway. In the next room, you can see a weird, shifting blue light, but you can't see its source from here.

Zeoll the Greensinger | AC15, 16/16hp | Cayzle
Thursday January 14th, 2021 9:04:56 PM

Zeoll calls out, "Helloo! Who is therre?"

He starts singing a lovely melody, and readies a standard action to FASCINATE ... if a creature appears and it seems like the target might be a fey, magical beast, plant creature, vermin, or animal.

Asimov | Hugh | AC 15/12/13 HP 29/29 d20+7=25 ;
Thursday January 14th, 2021 11:49:31 PM
Asimov moves over to and checks the desk out for any compartments, or any other things of interest and to see if he can get a better glimpse at whatever is making the odd light in the other room from the vantage point of the desk.

(Perception; 25)

SteveM - Elron | AC 21, HP 30/36 d20+12=20 ;
Friday January 15th, 2021 12:05:39 AM
Elron moves into the room off the hallway as well, seeing how someone might need to protect the boy while he's going through the desk. While he's in there, he keeps an eye peeled for anything interesting.

Perception = 20

Honor Bright [AC 19; HP 24/24] (Kathy)
Friday January 15th, 2021 1:22:51 PM
Honor slips into the study and draws Virtue.

DM Kathy
Friday January 15th, 2021 3:31:36 PM
Seeing the strange light, Zeoll calls out and begins singing.

Asimov checks the desk, but finds nothing of interest.

Elron and Honor also move into the room, ready for action.

Mundhildur approaches the door to the next room. [There's not a post, but the character has been moved on the map, so I'm going to assume.]

Everyone except Honor can see into the next room. It is a ruin, with gaping holes in the roof. One of the stone columns that once supported the ceiling is toppled, its broken pieces littering the floor. Old wooden cupboards line the back wall.

Within the room is a--creature? trap? natural phenomenon? It seems like a ball--or perhaps a blob--of electricity. Except--it has a face? Kind of? Energy crackles around it. Mundhildur, Zeoll, and Honor find that their hair is standing on end, and occasional electrical sparks seem to dance over their bodies. So far, the--whatever it is--isn't doing anything except floating around the room and crackling.

Knowledge Planes DC 20 Highlight to display spoiler: { It looks like a Comozant Wyrd, but there’s something different about it.}

Updated map

SteveM - Elron | AC 21, HP 30/36
Friday January 15th, 2021 3:50:30 PM
"Oh, my. D'you, I say, d'you know what that is? It's a Krak'len. . . I hear they like to attack ships and set on the masts."

Elron's not sure what to do about this one. Were Krak'lens balls of electricity, or did they have eight arms? He isn't sure. He's at the back of the group, and probably the eggheads will try to talk to it. Elron gets ol' Betsy out and ready to whap it, just in case it doesn't like talk.

Zeoll the Greensinger | AC15, 16/16hp | Cayzle d20+2=5 ;
Sunday January 17th, 2021 12:43:46 AM

Knowledge Planes 5 nope!

On the off chance it will work, Zeoll uses his Fascinate. Will Save 15.

Zeoll's Fascinate only affects fey, magical beast, plant creature, vermin, or animal.

Asimov | Hugh | AC 15/12/13 HP 29/29 d20+10=24 ; d20+10=12 ;
Sunday January 17th, 2021 11:02:51 PM
Asimov looks at the weird electric face that Elron called a Krak'len. He uses his 0th level magic detecting thing-a-mabob to get an idea if whatever it is magical.

(Know[Arcana]: 24)
(Spellcraft: 12)

Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant, large (Kim) AC 16 Touch 12 FF14 HP 27/32
Monday January 18th, 2021 3:04:39 AM
[Thought I had posted - had written up a 3-paragraph post early Friday, but it looks like the post did not take somehow]

The Jotan says to the ball of light, "Hello there, beautiful. Who are you? I'm Mundhildur. Are you lost or something?"

Honor Bright [AC 19; HP 24/24] (Kathy)
Monday January 18th, 2021 1:49:08 PM
Honor peers through the doorway. She can't get a really good look at the thing, and anyway she doesn't know anything about other planes.

"Are you sure?" she asks Elron. "I thought Krak'len were sort of....squid-y." She stays on alert, watching to see what the thing might do.

DM Kathy d20+7=15 ;
Monday January 18th, 2021 2:07:41 PM
Elron states confidently that the thing is called a Krak'len, and they attack ships. Honor isn't so sure.

Asimov detects for magic but finds none.

Mundhildur greets the thing, but it doesn't seem to respond.

Zeoll isn't sure what it is, but tries to Fascinate it anyway. And, whatever it is, it has a Will save because it successfully saved against the effect.

It continues to flit about in the next room.

SteveM - Elron | AC 21, HP 30/36
Monday January 18th, 2021 7:34:54 PM
"Well," Elron tells Honor, "I thought so too -- but jes' listen." The thing, whatever it is, does seem to be crackling. "And how, I say, how can it not have seen us, us bein' in plain sight an' everythin'?" He figures if he can see it's face, it can see him.

"Tell you what -- I've been told feathers is insulation. Should I go in there and ask what it is?"

Zeoll the Greensinger | AC15, 16/16hp | Cayzle
Monday January 18th, 2021 11:22:09 PM

"Well, it has not attacked us yet, so let's not fight it in case it is an innocent thing."

The old liontaur bows to honor Elron for his voluntering.

Asimov | Hugh | AC 15/12/13 HP 29/29
Monday January 18th, 2021 11:46:37 PM
Asimov says, "Whatever it is, it sure as heck ain't magic. I can tell you that. Aside from that whatever it is is outside my range of expertise. If you wanna give it a shot, Elron, then I ain't gonna stop you"

Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant, large (Kim) AC 16 Touch 12 FF14 HP 27/32 d20+5=23 ; d20+4=5 ; d20+4=6 ; d20+4=10 ; d20+4=12 ; d20+4=13 ; d20+4=18 ; d20+4=6 ;
Tuesday January 19th, 2021 1:22:05 AM

"Sounds good, Elron. I will come, too. I agree, Zeoll, we don't want to fight it, I think. Not magic? A thing of lightning, of air? My people are of air and storms. Maybe the blue glow and I can figure out how to talk. If it decides to zap me, I can leave the room. I'm going to look just a little more, first." She looks into the room, trying to see if there is anything unusual besides the floating energy. [Perception: 23]

She says, "Maybe it likes music." She begins to sing a song before entering - but her voice cracks terribly (Perform, singing: 5 (nat 1)). She stops, clears her throat and starts again. Still almost as bad (6). "Just a moment." Mundhildur takes out her waterskin, and gulps down a bit, gargles. She begins to hum. So, not as bad (10). Then she moves into a gentle, tonal vocalization (12). A slow run up a scale (13). Then a bit more full throated (18). Mundhi tries to match any tonalities coming from the crackling ball. She is just starting to get a feel for it, then her voice cracks again (6). "I'm sorry. Maybe if I could make good music today, our floating neighbor would like it."

"Let's go, Mister Feathers! Maybe you can sing out something."

She walks into the room, and goes to the right side, and leans against the wall. "We are here. Can we help you? We want to help a little girl. We need silverberries. Do you know about silverberries?"

Honor Bright [AC 19; HP 24/24] (Kathy)
Tuesday January 19th, 2021 3:44:34 PM
Honor steps up to support Mundhildur and Elron, but doesn't try to go into the room just yet.

DM Kathy d20+15=28 ; d8=6 ; d8=1 ;
Tuesday January 19th, 2021 3:49:31 PM
Elron volunteers to step into the next room and check out the creature. Zeoll and Asimov agree with the plan.

Mundhildur does him one better. She steps into the room, intending to try to talk to the creature.

The minute she crosses the threshold, the creature attacks! A bolt of lighting streaks toward Mundhildur, striking her and doing 9 points of damage!

And the map.

SteveM - Elron | AC 21, HP 30/36 d20+6=9 ;
Tuesday January 19th, 2021 5:40:51 PM
Interrupted from the process of selecting what song he's going to sing, Elron is outraged by this unprovoked attack on Mundhi. Well, if the thing wants a whapping, it'll get a whapping.

Elron doesn't quite trip over his own feet as he enters the room, but the wild swing as he runs up only connects with AC 9.

Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant, large (Kim) AC 16 Touch 12 FF14 HP 27/32 d20+3=18 ; d20+5=17 ; d20+5=18 ; d8+3=5 ; d8+3=7 ;
Tuesday January 19th, 2021 7:13:02 PM

The d20+3=18 should add an extra +3=21 on the reflex save vs electricity. She has elemental immunity, in which the Jotun receives +1/level of resistance vs its energy type - in Mundhi's case, electrical. So perhaps the damage she takes is 4 or 5, rather than 9?

Well, had Elron not jumped forward, she may have chosen to respond otherwise, but as he is now in harm's way (and the electrical blob, from her perspective, 'started it'), she takes a 5-foot step forward and slams it twice. "You - be nice!" she roars.

She hits AC 17 and AC 18, for 5 and 7 hp respectively.

Asimov | Hugh | AC 15/12/13 HP 29/29 d20=7 ; d3=2 ;
Wednesday January 20th, 2021 12:30:58 AM
Asimov moves to the doorway and fires off a round from the corresive pistol at the electric thing.

(7 vs touch; 2 acid damage if that hits)

0th - corrosive pistol (acid splash); freeze ray (ray of frost); magic detector(detect magic); light emitter (light)
1st - Flaming glove (burning hands), Flaming glove (burning hands), Flaming glove (burning hands), Flaming glove (burning hands)

Honor Bright [AC 19; HP 24/24] (Kathy) d20+7=13 ; d8=3 ;
Wednesday January 20th, 2021 5:04:19 PM
Honor rushes into the room after Elron. She tries to hit the flying creature with Virtue. It doesn't go especially well. [Hit AC 13 for 6 damage.]

DM Kathy d20+10=19 ; d8=3 ; d8=6 ;
Wednesday January 20th, 2021 5:46:21 PM
Elron swings wildly at the creature but does not connect. Honor likewise swings and misses.

From the doorway, Asimov tries a shot from the corrosive pistol, but it flies wide and splatters onto the wall, sizzling slightly.

Mundhildur has better luck than her companions, managing to hit the creature twice.

[OOC: there is no Reflex save against the creature's attack. It is a ranged attack; the creature has to roll to hit. Damage is 9, reduced by whatever resistance Mundhildur has.]

The creature flits up into the corner (5-foot step), then sends another bolt at Mundhildur. This one also hits, and does another 9 damage.

And the map.

Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant, large (Kim) AC 16 Touch 12 FF14 HP 15/32 d20+5=21 ; d20+5=11 ; d8+3=5 ;
Wednesday January 20th, 2021 7:29:56 PM

Mundhildur slams again (AC 21) for 5hp damage, then manages to slam the wall next to the blue glowy floating orb. "You started it, pipsqueak!" she says. "I'm a storm giant, y'know, of sorts. Why are we fighting, anyway? If you stop, so will I. You first."

WIth her 3 resistance to electrical, the first ranged touch attack did 6hp (9-3) versus her, and so did the second.

SteveM - Elron | AC 21, HP 30/36 d20+7=13 ; d20+7=18 ; d4+2=5 ; d4+2=5 ;
Wednesday January 20th, 2021 9:12:22 PM
Elron doesn't bother to tell the Krak'len it wouldn't like him when he's angry -- he just gets angry. He attacks with a flurry of blows, hitting AC 13 (damage not intentionally rolled) and 18 (for 5 damage, either way).

=====
Rage 1/6

Asimov | Hugh | AC 15/12/13 HP 29/29 d20=18 ; d3=2 ; d20=17 ;
Thursday January 21st, 2021 1:11:40 AM
Asimov takes another shot (18 vs touch, 2 acid damage if that hits)

Zeoll the Greensinger | AC15, 16/16hp | Cayzle
Thursday January 21st, 2021 7:02:23 AM
Zeoll sings an inspiring song, offering his friends +1 on attacks and damage.

Honor Bright [AC 19; HP 24/24] (Kathy) d20+8=25 ; d8=1 ;
Thursday January 21st, 2021 3:10:58 PM
Honor steps forward and tries again. She is more accurate this time, but doesn't get a lot of power behind it. [Hit AC 25 for 5 damage.]

DM Kathy d20+10=16 ; d8=1 ; d8=5 ; d3=3 ; d20+10=25 ; d8=2 ; d8=1 ;
Thursday January 21st, 2021 3:44:46 PM
Mundhildur and Elron would like to attack the creature. They are currently too far away to make melee attacks. Would you like to choose different actions?

Asimov fires another blast from the corrosive pistol. Since his target is not currently in melee, he hits.

Zeoll begins inspiring his friends.

Honor steps up and attacks, hitting for 5 damage.

The creature flies to the opposite corner, provoking an attack of opportunity from Honor. This time, it fires its lightning at Asimov, hitting for 6 damage.

And now a second creature enters the fray! It flies in through the hole in the ceiling and shoots at Elron! The lightning hits, and Elron takes 3 damage.

And the map. Please remember to move your character on the map if your character moves.

Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant, large (Kim) AC 16 Touch 12 FF14 HP 15/32 d20+5=8 ; d20+5=15 ; d8+3=4 ; d20+5=14 ; d8+3=4 ;
Thursday January 21st, 2021 7:52:56 PM
Too far away? If that were the case last round, surely with her longspear she has reach - and the d20+5=21 for d8+3=5 damage should have applied. (with a 5' step from the critter, it was within her ability to reach, still).

And the AoO also should apply to Mundhildur, not just Honor, but she misses (AC 8). A new one, by the door? [We're going to need altitudes & ceiling height, DM Kathy, me thinketh!] If too high to slam, Mundhi hits AC 15 for 4hp damage. If at a height she could slam, we'll use the AC 15 and 4 hp for slam #1, and AC 14 for 4 hp for slam #2.

Asimov | Hugh | AC 15/12/13 HP 23/29 d20+5=23 ; d3+1=4 ;
Friday January 22nd, 2021 2:18:37 AM
Asimov says, "That hurt. Also I have no medihalers today because I thought it was going to be spider clearing day so we'll most likely need to take another rest after this."

He takes a five foot step backwards diagonally and fires another acid pistol round at the new threat.

(23 vs touch; 4 acid damage)

0th - corrosive pistol (acid splash); freeze ray (ray of frost); magic detector(detect magic); light emitter (light)
1st - Flaming glove (burning hands), Flaming glove (burning hands), Flaming glove (burning hands), Flaming glove (burning hands)

Zeoll the Greensinger | AC15, 16/16hp | Cayzle d20+1=19 ; d20+1=15 ; d4=2 ; d4=1 ;
Friday January 22nd, 2021 7:23:45 AM

Look! An enemy has appeared right next to Zeoll! The taur instinctively rears up and swipes with two paws. Is he flanking it with Honor? Which square is she in?

He hits ACs 19 and 15 (21 and 17 if flanking) for 3 hp and 2 hp.

Still singing, Zeoll backs up five feet.

SteveM - Elron | AC 21, HP 27/36 d20=17 ; d20=14 ;
Friday January 22nd, 2021 10:32:21 AM
Hmm. . . Elron's not built for range. If he couldn't reach the thing, he would not have raged, though. He'd have looked around to get a better lay of the room -- how tall is it, where is the hole this new one came from, etc.

"Zeoll, you're a big guy. If'n ya get in here, I can attack 'em from your back!" Just for the fun of it, Elron pulls out and throws a shuriken. (Hits AC 17 for 1 point of damage; please ignore the accidental second roll)

Honor Bright [AC 19; HP 24/24] (Kathy) d20+8=13 ; d20+8=20 ; d8=1 ;
Friday January 22nd, 2021 3:12:44 PM
Honor's attack of opportunity is not great [hit AC 13], but she moves to keep after the creature, ignoring the new one for now.

For her regular attack, she hits AC 20 for 5 damage.

DM Kathy
Friday January 22nd, 2021 3:49:03 PM
OOC:

So, I keep screwing this up, so we're going to take a moment and reset.

First, I want to explain about positioning. If you are in melee, and your opponent takes a 5-foot step, then you are no longer in melee. You can hit your opponent if you have reach, but you are no longer considered to be in melee. To get back into melee--if, for example, you do not have reach--you need to take a 5-foot step to close the distance with your opponent. Then, if your opponent takes another 5-foot step to open up some distance, you have to take a 5-foot step to follow them. Rinse and repeat.

Your DM is not a mind reader. If your opponent moves away, and you do not move yourself on the map, and you do not indicate in your post that you moved, then your DM has to assume that you remained where you were. If you say "I attack my opponent" without also saying that you moved, then you put your DM in an impossible position.

It gets even more complicated if somebody is also making a ranged attack at that same opponent. Ranged attacks take a penalty when they are aimed at an opponent in melee. So, does your DM assume that the melee fighter meant to say they moved, but just forgot? And move them anyway? That puts the ranged fighter at a disadvantage. And who's to say the ranged fighter wouldn't have made a different choice if their opponent had been (visibly) in melee combat when they posted their action?

So, in the last round, the creature took a 5-foot step back. Both Elron and Mundhildur indicated that they made melee attacks without reach (flurry and slam respectively), which would not have been possible from their positions. Neither one said they moved, or moved themselves on the map. Asimov indicated that he used a ranged attack. So, do I just move Elron and Mundhildur closer, and screw up Asimov's shot? (It would not have hit with the penalty.) If I move Elron and Mundhildur closer, is it fair to assume that Asimov would have tried his shot at all? Maybe if he'd seen his opponent in melee, he would have decided to do something else instead.

I'm honestly not trying to be a hard-nose here. I'm trying to be fair to everybody, but it's hard to know what to do when somebody declares an action that isn't possible.

All of this is adding up to me asking, pleading, begging for everybody to please, please, PLEASE, move themselves on the map when their character moves. I don't think it's a big ask. DMing a combat means keeping track of lots of moving parts. It's even more complicated when you have a character acting in the combat and you're trying to segregate your DM knowledge from your player knowledge. Move your character. Please.

Second (yes, all those paragraphs were just one thing), these creatures were supposed to be incorporeal, and I completely dropped the ball on that. So by now, all characters have seen that regular attacks won't hurt them. I believe that Asimov's attacks count as magical for this purpose, or at least I will until somebody tells me differently. So the corrosive pistol is (so far) the only thing that did any damage at all to these things. Knowing that, your character may want to try a different approach. So I'm not going to have the creatures act this round, and everybody can restate their actions if they want.

Sorry for the confusion.

Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant, large (Kim) AC 16 Touch 12 FF14 HP 15/32
Friday January 22nd, 2021 4:35:21 PM

When it finally sinks in to Mundhildur that her slams and stabs or slashes are not obtaining purchase at all on the glowy orbs, she says, "Hey, we really are not hurting these things at all. EVERYONE, OUT OF THE ROOM!" She follows her own counsel.

SteveM - Elron | AC 21, HP 27/36
Sunday January 24th, 2021 1:35:07 PM
Elron follows Mundhildur out of the room. He has not come up with anything devastating to the Krak'len's ego to say as a parting shot, either. This is quite embarassing. Rubbing his backside, all he allows is, "That really Hertz."

Asimov | Hugh | AC 15/12/13 HP 23/29
Sunday January 24th, 2021 10:31:04 PM
(OOC: yes for symplicity sake we said Technomancy functioned like magic; therefore corrosive pisol = acid splash)

Asimov says, "I was never in that room in the first place. I was firing through the doorway but something tells me if I'm going to be the only one doing any damage to these things that is a position that I do not want to be in. Shall we regroup again away from your Krak'len's Elron?"

He joins Mundi

Honor Bright [AC 19; HP 24/24] (Kathy)
Monday January 25th, 2021 2:13:42 PM
Honor turns. She doesn't like retreating, but she has to admit that the group needs a new strategy.

"Right behind you," she says, and follows Elron.

DM Kathy
Monday January 25th, 2021 3:31:11 PM
Realizing that you're having a hard time with these things, you retreat to the next room. The creatures do not follow, but continue flying around the other room. It's difficult to tell, but they seem agitated.

Perception DC 12 Highlight to display spoiler: { Now that the sounds of battle have died down, you realize that you hear something banging. It's faint, and it sounds like it's coming from the east. And was that a voice crying out?}

Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant, large (Kim) AC 16 Touch 12 FF14 HP 15/32 d20+5=22 ; d20+3=19 ;
Monday January 25th, 2021 4:03:18 PM
"Some clanging in that direction, and a voice calling out!" Mundhildur tells the others.

With a perception of 22, if she figures it's something on the other side of the door she is front of (L9 - i just added coordinate rows and columns), she sees if she can open that door. If a strength check is needed... she has a 19. If the door opens, she looks inside to see what is going on.

If it sounds further down the hall, rather than behind the L9 door, she heads east down the hallway to the right. She slows down to discern whether the noise comes from the right from the room they were in earlier (R10), or rather from the left (S9), near the bats' nest. If she can tell, she does the door check and opening at the appropriate spot.

SteveM - Elron | AC 21, HP 27/36 d20+12=22 ;
Monday January 25th, 2021 5:15:06 PM
(Perception = 22)

Elron hears the banging and the voice, and figures the noise of their recent battle alerted whoever or whatever to their presence. But with the state and age of this place -- and that the rest of the party's between him and it -- he's not sure he wants to know the state and age of what might be lurking behind the door.

The Twins (Mitch) HP 38/38 AC 20/12/18 Saves +4 Fort/+3 Ref/+1 Will
Monday January 25th, 2021 7:23:11 PM
The pair hear the sounds of battle and debate. "Intruders? Rescuers?" one wonders. "Enemies of our enemies of least. Maybe not friends." The other replies. Deciding there's only one way to find out they commence the banging and the calling.

Asimov | Hugh | AC 15/12/13 HP 23/29 d20+7=8 ;
Monday January 25th, 2021 11:47:51 PM
(Perception: 8)

Asimov doesn't hear anything but when Elron and Munhildur start acting like they do he follows after them not wanting to be left behind

Zeoll the Greensinger | AC15, 16/16hp | Cayzle
Monday January 25th, 2021 11:59:27 PM
Zeoll backs away from the incorporeal foes, hoping they will not follow. He follows Mundhi's direction and heads toward the sounds she has heard.

He continues to keep up his singing, but he adds some words to it:

Therre is a sound therre!
Someone needs help! Wherre?
Let us investigate!

Honor Bright [AC 19; HP 24/24] (Kathy) d20+3=10 ;
Tuesday January 26th, 2021 3:01:08 PM
Honor hears nothing [Perception 10], but if her friends are investigating something, she wants to come along. She steps out into the hallway, ready to follow.

DM Kathy
Tuesday January 26th, 2021 4:39:28 PM
Mundhildur tries to determine where the sound is coming from. It is east of the door you're in front of, but you know that the other door leads toward the rubble where the bats are, so you start by opening this door.

Old cobweb-covered racks and armor stands dominate much of this small chamber. What must have once been a well-tended armory is now devoid of arms and armor.

The rest of the party follows Mundhildur.

Elsewhere, an adventurer--or possibly two adventurers--continue to bang and yell. It's not clear where they are, but one thing is certain.

The noise got a little louder when Mundhildur opened the door.

And the map. If your character wants to make Perception checks, it's going to be important where they're standing when they make them.

The Twins(Mitch) HP 38/38 AC 20/12/18 Saves +4 Fort/+3 Ref/+1 Will
Tuesday January 26th, 2021 7:13:07 PM
The Twins look about their prison. Is their gear in reach? Is there any way for them to free themselves they may have avoided doing while the enemy was alert? Are there guards?

SteveM - Elron | AC 21, HP 27/36 d20+12=26 ;
Tuesday January 26th, 2021 7:37:07 PM
Elron moves into the newly opened room, but not far. Too much chance the noise is another body, and not the living kind. (Perception = 26)

Asimov | Hugh | AC 15/12/13 HP 23/29 d20+7=26 ;
Wednesday January 27th, 2021 12:59:20 AM
(Percpetion: 26)

Asimov follows Elron and steps into the entranceway of the new room, taking in his surroundings

Zeoll the Greensinger | AC15, 16/16hp | Cayzle d20+6=14 ;
Wednesday January 27th, 2021 1:16:23 AM

"Ugh, this place is so tight," says Zeoll as he squeezes into the hallway between Honor and Mundhi. The old liontaur looks around.

Perception 14.

Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant, large (Kim) AC 16 Touch 12 FF14 HP 15/32 d20+5=25 ;
Wednesday January 27th, 2021 3:28:21 AM

Mundhi squeezes past Zeoll who just squeezed her way. Once inside, she looks and listens. Seems like we are a pretty perceptive group of adventurers at the moment.

Perception: 25 (nat 20)

Honor Bright [AC 19; HP 24/24] (Kathy)
Wednesday January 27th, 2021 5:48:25 PM
Honor stays in the hallway, not being terribly perceptive.

DM Kathy
Wednesday January 27th, 2021 6:08:09 PM
The Twins take a look around. Your armor, weapons and packs have been removed. You can see them, down the hall from your cell, well out of reach but apparently intact. You have been left in your regular clothing and shoes. Which is kind of nice, because taking off a shoe and banging it on the bars of the cell makes a nice clanging noise.

Elron steps into the room and looks around. You see something gleaming, just poking out from behind one of the weapons racks. You investigate and discover a very nice-looking dagger.

Asimov follows Elron into the room. You also look around, and see something under one of the weapons racks. You investigate, and discover 10 very nice-looking crossbow bolts.

Zeoll has a hard time spotting anything, and Honor doesn't even try.

Mundhildur squeezes into the room and also looks around. Since she went further in, she's the one who discovers the secret door in the northeast corner!

And the map. The secret door is marked with a little blue circle, because I didn't even want to try to make the draw program give me a stylized S.

The Twins(Mitch) HP 38/38 AC 20/12/18 Saves +4 Fort/+3 Ref/+1 Will
Wednesday January 27th, 2021 10:04:39 PM
The Twins stop banging for a moment and listen, seeing if they can hear anything from whoever's out there.

SteveM - Elron | AC 21, HP 27/36
Thursday January 28th, 2021 12:00:55 AM
Elron picks up the dagger, not taking his eyes off the corner of the room the banging was coming from.

Zeoll the Greensinger | AC15, 16/16hp | Cayzle
Thursday January 28th, 2021 12:25:44 AM
Zeoll ends his song, having used what? 5 rounds of Inspire and before that two of Fascinate. More or less.

He watches closely.

"Someone betterr open that secrret doorr," he calls into the room.

"Go ahead, good sisterr Mundhi!"

Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant, large (Kim) AC 16 Touch 12 FF14 HP 15/32 d20+2=3 ;
Thursday January 28th, 2021 3:27:06 AM

Having found the secret door, perhaps the secret to opening it has also been discovered by her. If so, she simply opens it. If not, she tries to finesse it (dex check 3 - nat 1). If that's a failure, she asks for Asimov's assistance, "Or anyone else who cares to try."

If it opens, she steps through. "Who is hollering?"

Asimov | Hugh | AC 15/12/13 HP 23/29 d20+8=26 ;
Thursday January 28th, 2021 6:20:32 AM
(Perception: 25/26 vs mechanical)

Asimov checks the door for traps

Honor Bright [AC 19; HP 24/24] (Kathy) d20+3=19 ;
Thursday January 28th, 2021 2:26:09 PM
Honor remains in the hallway, looking and listening for trouble.

[Perception 19]

DM Kathy
Thursday January 28th, 2021 4:10:20 PM
Elron grabs the dagger. Zeoll encourages Mundhildur to open the door, while Honor keeps watch in the hallway.

After Asimov reports there are no traps on the door, Mundhildur is able to get it open. You nearly trip over a pile of armor, weapons, and backpacks that has been left just inside the secret door. Beyond it are a series of cells. The one on the end seems to be occupied.

The Twins see the wall at the far end slide away to admit the tallest woman they have ever seen.

And the map. Mitch, if you have an icon that you would like to represent your Twins, please put it on the map. Otherwise I'll find something tomorrow.

Zeoll the Greensinger | AC15, 16/16hp | Cayzle
Thursday January 28th, 2021 11:08:12 PM

"Ho, the prrisonerrs!" calls out Zeoll, a middle-aged liontaur. "How came you to this confinement?"

He is wondering if these are miscreants or innocents imprisoned unjustly.

Asimov | Hugh | AC 15/12/13 HP 23/29
Friday January 29th, 2021 12:57:32 AM
Asimov takes the 10 very nice crossbow bolts before following the others through the door. Asimov adds, "I don't suppose you guys know anything about the electric monsters a few doors down, whatever this dead dwarf we found was working on creating when he commited suicide because he ultimately felt he wasn't up to the task or most importantly of all, silver berries, or if there might be any in the vicinity?"

The Twins(Mitch) HP 38/38 AC 20/12/18 Saves +4 Fort/+3 Ref/+1 Will
Friday January 29th, 2021 8:00:11 AM
The prisoners are a pair of humans with light brown skin, heavily muscled and nearly identical. One is male and one is female and currently they're down to their underclothing as their armor and magical cloaks were stripped away.

The female one answers first. "We came to explore." she starts. The male, "Someone snuck up on us." "Knocked us out." "Very embarrassing. We didn't get to see much of the area." "Maybe it was the dwarf." "Or maybe more danger lurks here."

SteveM - Elron | AC 21, HP 27/36
Friday January 29th, 2021 11:27:25 AM
Let's be direct about this, Elron thinks. From the outside of the cells he shouts to the the prisoners, "Are you dead?"

Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant, large (Kim) AC 16 Touch 12 FF14 HP 15/32
Friday January 29th, 2021 1:57:21 PM

Mundhildur, after nearly tripping over the jumbled gear, uses her foot to shove things left and right to clear a pathway. "Who was hollering? You run out of voice?" The 7'4" tall woman with streaked and braided auburn hair makes her way through the room.

[Note: I wrote the above about 15 minutes after DM Kathy's post, but somehow failed to hit 'Submit'. What's below takes into account the posts that followed.]

Once she stands before their cell, she says, "Oh, hello," about the time they answer Zeoll's question, to which she listens. At Elron's shouted query, she calls back, "No, they're not dead. The dead rarely talk, right?"

She looks at them. "Are you twins? Or just brother and sister? I probably don't have to ask if you want out of here, right?"

Honor Bright [AC 19; HP 24/24] (Kathy)
Friday January 29th, 2021 3:47:57 PM
Given the new developments, Honor wants in the room now. She squeezes past Zeoll with a quick "excuse me."

Discretely, she uses her Detect Evil ability on the newcomers.

Zeoll the Greensinger | AC15, 16/16hp | Cayzle
Friday January 29th, 2021 8:24:09 PM

Zeoll whispers to Honor, "Easeplay ecjchay orrfay evilway!"

"Oh, neverr mind my dearr, if you alrready have."

DM Kathy
Friday January 29th, 2021 10:45:42 PM
Zeoll calls out to the prisoners, asking how they came to be there.

The Twins, speaking in an odd sort of unison, explain that they were exploring when they were knocked out.

Elron wonders if they are dead, but Mundhildur doesn't think so.

Honor wonders if they are evil, but keeps the thought to herself. They do not detect as evil.

As she moves toward the Twins' cell, Mundhildur can see that perhaps Elron's question was more relevant than it seemed. The other cells contain skeletons--dwarven skeletons, from the look of them.

And the map.

The Twins(Mitch) HP 38/38 AC 24/12/22 Saves +4 Fort/+3 Ref/+1 Will
Saturday January 30th, 2021 5:24:10 AM
(When I leveled to 3 to match party forgot to buy items. Got a +1 full plate, updated header)

The Twins answer the question in a strangely formal way, like reciting a prayer or ritual practiced since youth. "We are light and dark." "Hot and cold." "Peace and war." "We are the Twins." The way they say the word 'twins' makes it clear it's a title, not just a statement of fact.

"We are on a journey to spread our faith." "Our culture." "and learn of others to bring home." "Will you free us, or leave us?"

Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant, large (Kim) AC 16 Touch 12 FF14 HP 15/32
Saturday January 30th, 2021 12:43:45 PM

"Tell you what. We are looking for silverberries to help heal a sick little girl. Sure, we'll free you. We don't want you to turn into bones too soon, like the poor dwarfs in these other cells.

"If you're not too busy after we get you out, might you be interested in helping us find those berries? They are supposed to be around here somewhere. Oh, my name is Mundhildur, by the way. Mundhildur Karadottir. You can tell us about your faith once we find the keys, or otherwise figure out how to open the cage."

SteveM - Elron | AC 21, HP 27/36
Saturday January 30th, 2021 5:34:40 PM
They must've been locked up here before we arrived, or we'd have noticed something, Elron thinks. "Bash it open," he suggests to Mundhildur -- by now she must realize that bashing is always the answer -- "An' give 'em some food. They must be starvin'. An' you know what seven days o' starvin' does -- it makes one weak."

Asimov | Hugh | AC 15/12/13 HP 23/29 d20+8=25 ;
Monday February 1st, 2021 12:20:02 AM
Asimov says, "Wait" to Munhidur and then tries to pick the lock on the door of the twins's cell. (25 / 26 if mechanical)

Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant, large (Kim) AC 16 Touch 12 FF14 HP 15/32
Monday February 1st, 2021 11:36:46 AM

The Jotun smiles at Elron. "Bashing is fine in its place and time, my fine feathered friend. If keys or Asimov's skillful picking don't work, then it's time for bashing - or a good crowbar."

She takes two apples out of her bag. "Munch on these while we work on that freedom thing for you," she tells the twins as she hands them through the bars. "You have names?" Mundhildur already gave them hers, and she figures the others can introduce themselves when they decide to.

Honor Bright [AC 19; HP 24/24] (Kathy)
Monday February 1st, 2021 1:18:00 PM
Honor decides the little jail is crowded enough without her shoving in. Now that she knows the Twins are not evil, she is content to wait.

But she never was any good at Pig High Woldian, so she can't tell Zeoll everything's fine. She hopes he can deduce it.

DM Kathy
Monday February 1st, 2021 4:24:37 PM
The Twins introduce themselves simply as the Twins. Mundhildur asks whether they have names.

Elron advices bashing the cell door open, but Asimov believes he can finesse the lock. When you get to the cell door, you find that either bashing or finessing would have worked. The padlock on the door seems new, but the hasp--and indeed some of the bars--are very rusty and about to crumble away altogether. The Twins probably could have busted their way out eventually.

Asimov is able to pick the lock, and the Twins are free.

Zeoll the Greensinger | AC15, 16/16hp | Cayzle
Monday February 1st, 2021 10:30:22 PM

"Of courrse we'rre frreeing you! And welcome to the team," says Zeoll. "I am Zeoll, and this is Honorr, Asimov, Elrron, and Munhildurr."

The liontaur tries to help restore any gear that belongs to these two people.

SteveM - Elron | AC 21, HP 27/36
Tuesday February 2nd, 2021 12:09:33 AM
"Pleased to meet ya. Say, you didn't happen to see no silver berries before you was clobbered, did ya? And sorry, Ah didn't happen to catch your names."

Asimov | Hugh | AC 15/12/13 HP 23/29
Tuesday February 2nd, 2021 1:15:24 AM
Asimov says to the Twins, "Are you folks from around here or did you come from somewhere else like I did?"

The Twins(Mitch) HP 38/38 AC 24/12/22 Saves +4 Fort/+3 Ref/+1 Will
Tuesday February 2nd, 2021 6:12:29 AM
"We are the Twins." "Two bodies, one being." "One whole, two halves." "Each half no more named then you would name your arms or eyes."

The two go to put on their armor which hides what little physical variation there was between the two. One wears a deep blue cloak, the other a bright red. "We are from far, far away." "Many years have we traveled to come here." "We have not seen the object of your quest." "Or any other berries."

Honor Bright [AC 19; HP 24/24] (Kathy)
Tuesday February 2nd, 2021 1:57:50 PM
"Well, it's nice to meet you," Honor says. "As Mundhildur said, we're looking for berries from a silverberry vine, but so far we haven't found any berries. Or any vines for that matter. Would you care to help us?"

DM Kathy
Tuesday February 2nd, 2021 4:22:09 PM
There are introductions all around. The Twins appear to have no name other than the Twins. The party's current quest is explained, and the Twins are freed from their cell and given back their gear.

In the other cells, the dwarven skeletons continue to lie quietly. You know that to the west is a room with two blobs of electrical energy flying about. To the east are ruins with bats. Somewhere to the south is a tower full of spiders.

What would you like to do next?

SteveM - Elron | AC 21, HP 27/36 d20+12=19 ;
Tuesday February 2nd, 2021 6:01:50 PM
"Knew a man with a wooden leg named Jonesy." While they're in the jail, Elron figures he might as well look around as best he can. (Perception = 19) "Never did learn the name of his other leg." Of course, after the twins set him up like that, Elron's joke was as obvious as night is dark. He doesn't bother to tell them that's a joke and they should laugh.

Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant, large (Kim) AC 16 Touch 12 FF14 HP 15/32
Tuesday February 2nd, 2021 11:46:09 PM

With the cloaks, Mundhi notes which twin went with which (male - blue or red? female - red or blue?).

"Let us free these poor dead dwarfs, and give their remains a decent burial. And check to see if anything left behind may be of use - though that is doubtful. Then - well, I am thinking there likely may be something either in the spider room, or the room with the glowy electrical balls. Maybe we'll find something among the bats in the next spot over, among the rubble they sleep in.

"You Twins want to know what we've found so far?"

If they say yes, then she takes a couple of minutes to give them a quick rundown on the rooms and what was found - and is happy to have any other members of the group add in details or their perspectives.

"Also, I got some hearty stings from those glowing orbs. Could stand some rest, healing." She looks moderately beat up (down slightly more than 1/2 her hit points).

Asimov | Hugh | AC 15/12/13 HP 23/29
Wednesday February 3rd, 2021 2:30:39 AM
Asimov says, "Why not we gave one dead dwarf a decent burial. We might as well give them all a decent burial. The question is will we ever find the berries we are looking for and will the twins have better luck fighting those electrical creatures or am I going to have to figure out how to take them out with my devices and not die in the process?"

The Twins(Mitch) HP 38/38 AC 24/12/22 Saves +4 Fort/+3 Ref/+1 Will
Wednesday February 3rd, 2021 6:56:51 AM
"Oh we met him." His other leg was named Mary." "A very strange man." Is their response to Elrond.
It's hard to tell if they're not getting the joke or making one of their own.

Mundhildur gets the feeling the Twins are being deliberately obtuse. They can't really get privacy in the room to change, but still go out of their way to make it difficult to tell which changed into which set of armor and cloak. You're pretty sure the female has the red cloak.

The Twins are quite happy to help with the burials and do inquire about the dangers the party has seen, explaining they didn't get to see much of anything before being captured.

Honor Bright [AC 19; HP 24/24] (Kathy)
Wednesday February 3rd, 2021 1:56:30 PM
"Well, I'm all for a decent burial," Honor says. "Where should we start?"

Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant, large (Kim) AC 16 Touch 12 FF14 HP 15/32
Wednesday February 3rd, 2021 3:40:24 PM

"Where the other dwarf was buried, I should think," responds Mundhildur to Honor. She takes her versatile blanket, and begins to place each lost prisoner's bones within, wrapping one along the edge, blanket tucked over that, then the next one, and so on. How many total skeletons are there?

When ready, she heads with the others to the new cemetery.

DM Kathy
Wednesday February 3rd, 2021 4:43:49 PM
Elron cracks a joke, which falls a little flat when the Twins answer. Did they get his joke? Or is it that he didn't get their joke?

Mundhildur suggests a rest, after burying the dead dwarves. Asimov seems to concur. Honor asks where to start.

Mundhildur grabs her trusty blanket, but then your DM has to hit pause to ask, no, really, where are you starting? As in which cell?

In the first cell is a single dwarf skeleton, chained to the wall. Its jaw appears to be broken. Did that happen before or after death?

In the second cell are two skeletons, also chained. One dwarf's spine appears to have been severed--or maybe the bones were just knocked about after death. It's hard to say. The other skeleton's arms and legs are at an odd angle.

In the third cell is one skeleton, not chained, lying peacefully on its cot.

The locks are rusty and in pretty bad shape, so opening the cells really shouldn't be an issue. So, which one do you open first?

Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant, large (Kim) AC 16 Touch 12 FF14 HP 15/32 d20+5=6 ; d20+5=19 ; d20+5=18 ;
Wednesday February 3rd, 2021 5:11:27 PM

Mundhi decides to look at the broken jaw fellow in the first cell. She looks first up to the ceiling to see if anything may have fallen from there, then down at the floor to see if perhaps a fair-sized block of stone may have landed on his jaw. Then she tries to slam open the doorway. Whoa - bad footing the first time (nat 1). She brushes off her dress, lines up better, and the second attempt easily breaks open the door (I think - 19).

"Someone more nimble than I want to examine the fellow?" she asks, and stands aside to let who desires check out Broken Jaw more.

Then she'll go look over the 2nd one - or pair within. Perception 18.

Zeoll the Greensinger | AC15, 16/16hp | Cayzle d20+7=19 ; d20=4 ;
Wednesday February 3rd, 2021 11:24:56 PM

Zeoll is fearful that the bones may rise as undead, and he warns his friends just in case.

He watches for any indication that they are more than just dead bones. Maybe they have a smell of necromancy to them?

Perception 19.

Then he helps to open doors, though he is not strong as he was in his youth. Roll to aid another with Str checks: 4 ... not so much.

Asimov | Hugh | AC 15/12/13 HP 23/29 d20+7=16 ; d20+8=27 ;
Thursday February 4th, 2021 1:01:19 AM
(Perception: 16)
(Disable Device: 27 / 28 if mechanical)

Asimov moves to the cell with the bones of the dwarf by the broken jaw. He opens the door and searches the cell before attempting to help Mundhi with her blanket.

The Twins(Mitch) HP 38/38 AC 24/12/22 Saves +4 Fort/+3 Ref/+1 Will
Thursday February 4th, 2021 5:30:21 AM
The Twins see no reason to remove the skeletons one at a time and they force open the 3rd cell to retrieve that corpse.

SteveM - Elron | AC 21, HP 27/36
Thursday February 4th, 2021 8:07:25 AM
Elron helps gather the bones, initially somewhat diffidently as he halfway thinks they may start to move, and placing each skeleton in its own pile on the blanket.

Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant, large (Kim) AC 16 Touch 12 FF14 HP 15/32 d20+5=24 ;
Thursday February 4th, 2021 11:23:49 AM

"Let's look over the cells to see if there are any little things that help us know what happened. Probably no berries here, but, well, look to see."

Perception 24 to examine the first room closely.

Zeoll the Greensinger | AC15, 16/16hp | Cayzle d20+7=26 ;
Thursday February 4th, 2021 4:38:12 PM
"Good idea, Mundhi," says Zeoll, helping to look around.

Perception 26!

Honor Bright [AC 19; HP 24/24] (Kathy)
Thursday February 4th, 2021 6:58:57 PM
Honor moves into the little prison to help.

DM Kathy d20+3=14 ; d20+3=23 ; d20+3=14 ; d3=3 ; d3=2 ;
Thursday February 4th, 2021 7:22:58 PM
Mundhildur decides to begin with the broken-jawed dwarf. You don't see anything that would account for the broken jaw--unless, of course, his captors had tormented him before he died. She breaks open the door.

From the next room, Zeoll calls out to be careful, since the bones might come to life!

Meanwhile, the Twins open the third cell as Honor moves into the prison area.

Zeoll was only partially right. The bones stay where they are. It is the straw that jumps up to attack! From each cell, a strange-looking animated clump of straw rushes forward. One targets Mundhildur, but misses. The other targets Honor, and hits! Honor takes 2 points of non-lethal damage.

And the map. You are responsible for your character's positioning. If you state actions that are not possible where you are currently standing, they will be ignored.

Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant, large (Kim) AC 16 Touch 12 FF14 HP 15/32 d20+5=20 ; d20+5=23 ; d8+3=5 ; d8+3=10 ;
Thursday February 4th, 2021 7:49:26 PM

Auburn braids swing left as the Jotun slams once (AC 20 5hp dam) then right as she slams the straw person again (AC 23 10 hp dam). "It's a Strawman Attack!" she logically infers aloud.

Asimov | Hugh | AC 15/12/13 HP 23/29
Friday February 5th, 2021 12:02:09 AM
Asimov moves up to the open door of the cell room and starts assembling chompy (takes a full round)

moves:
move action - move
standard action - start building chompy (will finish next round)

The Twins(Mitch) HP 38/38 AC 24/12/22 Saves +4 Fort/+3 Ref/+1 Will d20+7=21 ; d6=6 ; d6=1 ;
Friday February 5th, 2021 7:20:30 AM
(I love the picture you got for me. Stick figures FTW!)

In an instant the blue cloaked twin has a greatsword out and swinging at the monster even as the red twin drops their bundle. (21 to hit, 12 damage)

SteveM - Elron | AC 21, HP 27/36 d20+6=23 ; d4=4 ;
Friday February 5th, 2021 8:35:06 AM
Elron steps into the cell between those the creatures are in and whaps the one attacking Mundhildur.

Hits AC 23 for 4 damage

Once he has some idea how the bars affect his attacks, he will adjust tactics.

Honor Bright [AC 19; HP 22/24] (Kathy) d20+7=15 ; d8=7 ;
Friday February 5th, 2021 8:21:54 PM
Honor is startled, but not so startled she can't draw Virtue and take a slash at the straw creature.

[Hit AC 15 for 10 damage.]

DM Kathy d20+3=5 ; d20+3=9 ; d20+3=17 ;
Friday February 5th, 2021 8:46:50 PM
Mundhildur slams her straw opponent. Her blows hit, but don't seem to do a lot of damage. In fact, the first blow does no damage at all; the springy straw bounces right back.

By contrast, the Twins' sword strike seems to do full damage, and splits the straw creature in two.

At the other end of the prison, Virtue is also effective, though the straw creature still clings to life.

Asimov begins assembling Chompy.

Elron opens the middle cell, intending to help Mundhildur. Instead, he awakens more straw-creatures! He whaps one of them, only to find that, like Mundhildur, he is unable to damage the creature.

Meanwhile, the two new creatures attack Elron, but miss. Honor's opponent attacks her, and also misses.

And the map.

Zeoll the Greensinger | AC15, 16/16hp | Cayzle
Saturday February 6th, 2021 12:43:49 PM

Zeoll starts singing, offering his friends a +1 to attacks and damage.

The Twins(Mitch) HP 38/38 AC 24/12/22 Saves +4 Fort/+3 Ref/+1 Will
Saturday February 6th, 2021 10:19:07 PM
”Blades work.” One twin says. ”Use this.” the other calls and throws the greatsword to Elron. The other twin draws a sword and shield they move to help.

SteveM - Elron | AC 21, HP 27/36 d20+5=12 ; d20+5=10 ; d4=3 ; d4=2 ;
Sunday February 7th, 2021 7:02:43 PM
As the Twins toss him a massive five-foot long sword that would a larger creature would require both hands to wield, Elron sets it aside. "If'n I need a blade, I'll use th' double chicken saber," he calls out. Meanwhile, since whappin' won't work on these things, he tries ripping and tearing with his bare hands. "Anybody got a torch?" he adds.

Flurry of blows:
Hits AC 12 for 3 damage
Hits AC 10 for 2 damage

Asimov | Hugh | AC 15/12/13 HP 23/29 d20+3=9 ; d3=1 ; d20+3=12 ; d3=3 ;
Sunday February 7th, 2021 11:48:55 PM
Asimov finishes Chompy and it takes a 5 foot step before attacking the straw creature attacking Honor.

9 vs AC (1 damage if that hits)
12 vs AC (3 damage if that hits)

AC 16 Touch 12 FF 15
HP 21
Speed 20 ft
Hardness 5
Immune: construct traits
Fort +0, Ref +1, Will -5
2 slams +3 (1d3)

Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant, large (Kim) AC 16 Touch 12 FF14 HP 15/32 d20+5=9 ;
Monday February 8th, 2021 2:45:36 AM

Mundhildur switches to using her longspear against the mobile straw, but fails to connect well this time. (AC 9)

Honor Bright [AC 19; HP 22/24] (Kathy) d20+8=18 ; d8=5 ;
Monday February 8th, 2021 4:48:08 PM
If Chompy's attack hasn't done the trick, Honor slashes again at the straw monster.

[Hit AC 18 for 9 damage.]

DM Kathy d20+3=10 ; d20+3=22 ; d3=3 ; d3=1 ;
Monday February 8th, 2021 5:17:06 PM
Zeoll provides his friends some moral support.

The Twins toss a greatsword to Elron, then get out their sword and shield and move to help.

Elron is an impressive size for a rooster, but he still clocks in at Small, so a Medium greatsword is too big for him. Instead, he tries a flurry of blows, but both miss.

Asimov deploys Chompy, but it also misses its target. [OOC: Does Chompy do slashing damage or piercing damage? Or something else?]

Mundhildur also misses her attack.

Honor does not miss, and slays her foe.

The two remaining straw creatures attack Elron. One hits, for 1 point of nonlethal damage.

And the map.

Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant, large (Kim) AC 16 Touch 12 FF14 HP 15/32 d20+5=6 ;
Monday February 8th, 2021 5:45:30 PM

So, is she getting so accustomed to slamming, that she no longer can effectively slash with her longspear? Apparently so this time - it may be the iron bars she is trying to attack through provide interference. (attack nat 1)

SteveM - Elron | AC 21, HP 27/36 d20+4=22 ; d4+2=5 ; d6+2=6 ;
Monday February 8th, 2021 7:40:56 PM
Elron is getting upset by his inability to get a purchase on the things, and much as he hates to admit it, whappin' just isn't going to work here. . . He pulls out the double chicken saber and has at it.

Rage 1/6
Elron's AC is 19 while raging
Attack hits AC 22 for 5 damage -- assuming the saber is small, 6 damage if it is medium.
(The attack already includes non-proficiency)

The Twins(Mitch) HP 38/38 AC 24/12/22 Saves +4 Fort/+3 Ref/+1 Will d20+6=26 ; d20+6=11 ; d8=7 ; d8=8 ;
Monday February 8th, 2021 8:32:49 PM
(Bah I specifically looked for who could use the sword with proficiency and somehow missed his size.)

The twins move into the cage next to the creatures and cleave deeply into one of them (26, crit, 11 to confirm, 10 damage, 21 if crit)

Asimov | Hugh | AC 15/12/13 HP 23/29 d20+3=11 ; d3=2 ; d20=11 ; d3+1=2 ;
Tuesday February 9th, 2021 12:24:17 AM
(OOC: Chompy does bludgeoning damage with his slams)

Chompy moves forward and attacks the straw creature attacking Elron (11 vs AC; 2 damage)

Asimov moves up and fires a round from his acid pistol at one of the straw creatures (12 vs touch AC; 2 acid damage) (OOC: forgot Zeoll's singing bonus)

Chompy stats:
AC 16 Touch 12 FF 15
HP 21
Speed 20 ft
Hardness 5
Immune: construct traits
Fort +0, Ref +1, Will -5
2 slams +3 (1d3)

Zeoll the Greensinger | AC15, 16/16hp | Cayzle
Tuesday February 9th, 2021 8:17:43 AM

Zeoll continues singing, but he sees no way to get into the tightly spaced fight, so he just readies a paw swipe in the off chance that an enemy comes his way.

Honor Bright [AC 19; HP 22/24] (Kathy) d20+8=28 ; d20+8=23 ; d8=6 ; d8=6 ;
Tuesday February 9th, 2021 2:11:43 PM
Honor moves into the cell so she can attack the straw monster in the cell next door.

[Hit AC 28, critical threat, confirmed to AC 23 for 10 damage or 20 damage if these things can be critted.]

DM Kathy
Tuesday February 9th, 2021 3:57:10 PM
The battle continues. Mundhildur is having trouble bringing her spear to bear.

Elron switches to the double chicken saber, and this time when he hits the creature he does damage.

Asimov fires his pistol, but the straw monster is small and nimble, and the acid splashes harmlessly to the stones. Chompy is likewise unsuccessful.

The Twins hit one of the straw creatures and do damage, but these things appear immune to critical hits.

Honor hits her target--the same one Elron struck--and finishes it off.

Zeoll continues singing.

And the map.

Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant, large (Kim) AC 16 Touch 12 FF14 HP 15/32 d20+5=10 ;
Tuesday February 9th, 2021 5:04:49 PM

Mundhildur misses again.

SteveM - Elron | AC 21, HP 27/36 d20+5=20 ; d4+3=5 ; d6+3=5 ;
Tuesday February 9th, 2021 5:18:25 PM
Buoyed by his last success, Elron swings again.

Rage 2/6
Elron's AC is 19 while raging
Attack hits AC 20 for 5 damage -- whether the saber is small or medium, this time remembering Zeoll.
(The attack includes non-proficiency)

Asimov | Hugh | AC 15/12/13 HP 23/29 d20=17 ; d3+1=4 ; d20+3=17 ; d3=1 ;
Wednesday February 10th, 2021 1:23:09 AM
Chompy and Asimov move and attack, chompy with a slam and asimov with another round from his acid pistol thingamabob

Asimov (18 vs touch; 4 acid damage)
Chompy (17 vs AC; 1 bludgeoning if that hits)

Chompy stats:
AC 16 Touch 12 FF 15
HP 21
Speed 20 ft
Hardness 5
Immune: construct traits
Fort +0, Ref +1, Will -5
2 slams +3 (1d3)

The Twins(Mitch) HP 38/38 AC 24/12/22 Saves +4 Fort/+3 Ref/+1 Will d20+6=16 ; d8=4 ;
Wednesday February 10th, 2021 9:27:35 AM
The Twins press the attack on the last enemy. (16 to hit 7 damage)

Honor Bright [AC 19; HP 22/24] (Kathy)
Wednesday February 10th, 2021 3:44:00 PM
Honor can't reach the remaining foe from where she is, so she moves back to the door.

DM Kathy
Wednesday February 10th, 2021 4:51:05 PM
Mundhildur misses, and Honor can't reach the battle at all, but it ends up not mattering.

Between Asimov's acid shot, Elron's slash with the chicken saber, and the Twins' sword, the final straw creature collapses. The enemy is defeated.

The Twins(Mitch) HP 38/38 AC 24/12/22 Saves +4 Fort/+3 Ref/+1 Will
Wednesday February 10th, 2021 9:55:38 PM
The Twins stay alert for several seconds before relaxing and sheathing their weapons. Then they go talk to Elron. "Our apologies." "We should have thrown you the short sword." "You're giant friend threw off our sense of size."

Zeoll the Greensinger | AC15, 16/16hp | Cayzle
Wednesday February 10th, 2021 11:52:45 PM
Zeoll stops singing and calls his congratulations into the room. "Also, what was in therre? What do you guys see?"

Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant, large (Kim) AC 16 Touch 12 FF14 HP 15/32
Thursday February 11th, 2021 4:03:56 AM

Since the bedding is quelled, Mundhildur carries out what she earlier had planned to do - examine the skeletons and surroundings, trying to suss out what may have happened to them, their immediate environment, and how they likely may have died. Then wrapping the bones within her blanket as stated earlier, that the group may then take them out for burial. She wonders whether they simply may have starved to death. She feels very sorry for them, and prays their souls find rest. Or judgment, if that is considered by those who handle such things the better course.

Asimov | Hugh | AC 15/12/13 HP 23/29 d20+7=13 ; d20+7=12 ; d20+7=25 ;
Thursday February 11th, 2021 4:31:00 AM
(Perception: 13; 12; 25)

Asimov goes to each of the straw piles and pokes around in the remains

SteveM - Elron | AC 21, HP 27/36
Thursday February 11th, 2021 1:22:28 PM
Elron retrieves the greatsword and hands it to the Twins. He's curious to see which one takes it. "No problem. I prefer bashin' things to cutitn' 'em anyways."

He asks the rest of the group "D'ya think that witch from the swamp also came here?", although they never actually saw who owned the cabin with the animated guardians.

Honor Bright [AC 19; HP 22/24] (Kathy)
Thursday February 11th, 2021 2:33:02 PM
Honor is not very perceptive, and anyway it's a little crowded in here, so she makes her way back into the larger room, just in case something decides to come after the group.

DM Kathy
Thursday February 11th, 2021 5:43:28 PM
The Twins retrieve their weapons. Elron is happy to return the greatsword, feeling that, on the whole, whappin' is preferable to slicing.

Mundhildur returns to her previous mission--gathering the bones for a decent burial. As she goes about her task, Asimov notices that one of the skeletons has a copper ring on its finger.

Mundhildur can tell that the skeletons with damage were injured--probably tortured--before death. It is unclear what killed them.

Zeoll congratulates the group while Honor keeps watch.

The bones are gathered. Would you like to bury them with the other dwarf, or do you have other plans?

Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant, large (Kim) AC 16 Touch 12 FF14 HP 15/32
Thursday February 11th, 2021 7:14:44 PM

"Shall we let the bones of the dwarfs be gathered in one burial spot, as we laid the first one down?" asks Mundhildur. If there is more to do here, she will wait.

If not, then she will bear out within the blanket the carefully wrapped bones, help dig a new grave, and sing a sad song for the dead.

Asimov | Hugh | AC 15/12/13 HP 23/29 d20+10=14 ; d20+10=16 ; d20+8=23 ;
Friday February 12th, 2021 1:50:06 AM
Asimov picks up the ring and uses his 0th level magic detecting thingamabob on it. He also appraises the ring.

He says, "Let me check out this ring and then I see no reason not to use the place we used last time."

(Know[Arcana]: 14)
(Spellcraft: 16)
(Appraise: 23)

The Twins(Mitch) HP 38/38 AC 24/12/22 Saves +4 Fort/+3 Ref/+1 Will
Friday February 12th, 2021 7:22:00 AM
The Twin in the blue cloak takes it. They're also the one who threw it to Elron. Seeing no reason for their plans to have changed they get ready to help burry the bones as the group was doing before the fight.

SteveM - Elron | AC 21, HP 27/36
Friday February 12th, 2021 10:37:20 AM
Once again, Elron is willing to help with the burial but contributes no ideas how best to show their respects. He stays quiet and assumes things will be much like the last time.

Honor Bright [AC 19; HP 22/24] (Kathy)
Friday February 12th, 2021 2:36:29 PM
As they head out to bury the dwarves, Honor once again digs out the dwarven hymnal to Domi. She'll help dig if asked.

Zeoll the Greensinger | AC15, 16/16hp | Cayzle
Friday February 12th, 2021 2:48:28 PM

Zeoll thinks that laying these dwarves to rest in the same spot seems respectful to him. He helps with the digging and the hymn.

Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant, large (Kim) AC 16 Touch 12 FF14 HP 15/32
Friday February 12th, 2021 10:38:19 PM

"Honor, help me dig." Mundhildur holds out a metal rod. "Here's a crowbar."

DM Kathy
Friday February 12th, 2021 11:24:05 PM
The Twins reclaim their greatsword. Asimov examines the ring and finds it is a Ring of Sustenance.

Mundhildur finishes gathering the bones, and the group troops back outside to lay them to rest.

This time, digging is a bit easier, since you just dug a grave here. Honor and Elron help dig, then Honor and Zeoll sing a hymn in dwarven to the fallen.

You still have the spider tower, the bat rubble, and the room with the strange glowing things to explore. Some of your resources are depleted. Do you rest, or resume your explorations? And if you resume, where do you go first?

Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant, large (Kim) AC 16 Touch 12 FF14 HP 15/32
Saturday February 13th, 2021 1:03:29 AM

Mundhi harmonizes with Honor and Zeoll in the dwarven hymn to the fallen, and beats a rhythm with the butt of her longspear. She shakes out her utility blanket afterwards, folds and rolls it.

"What if we look on the roof of this place? Maybe there are berries growing there. Or spiders can attack us up there." If no one takes interest in looking at the roof, she says, "I say, let us rest, heal, and think about how to deal with the spiders. Once we are ready, since I have three large blankets, we could cover this one in oil, and kick up much smoke in their area. They won't be affected like bees by smoke I expect, but it might make them whoozy."

SteveM - Elron | AC 21, HP 27/36
Sunday February 14th, 2021 5:11:29 PM
Elron hasn't seen the bat room, and remembers the glowing things better than the spiders. Besides, he's all for trying to smoke the spiders out as long as there's a shaded area they can run to where he isn't. He suggests they try the tower again next.

The Twins(Mitch) HP 38/38 AC 24/12/22 Saves +4 Fort/+3 Ref/+1 Will
Sunday February 14th, 2021 9:37:25 PM
The Twins didn't get much chance to examine the place before their capture so listen to the other's descriptions of places they've yet to explore. "Fire is good for webs." "Burn them out, catch them at the entrance to the tower." is their suggestion.

Asimov | Hugh | AC 15/12/13 HP 23/29
Monday February 15th, 2021 12:51:33 AM
Asimov puts the ring on.

He says, "I thought we were gonna fight the spiders so the only thingamabobs I prepared where fire gloves.
Otherwise we could rest and I could prepare more medihalers."

Honor Bright [AC 19; HP 22/24] (Kathy)
Monday February 15th, 2021 1:25:39 PM
"We're looking for vines and berries, so we want to be careful with fire," Honor says. "But if we think we have a plan for the spiders, we should try it. I'm out of healing, though, until we rest again."

DM Kathy
Monday February 15th, 2021 2:08:43 PM
There doesn't seem to be a consensus on what to do next. Mundhildur suggests resting.

Elron, the Twins, and Asimov are keen to try the spider tower, especially since Asimov prepared for it today.

Honor just advises caution with whatever the group decides.

The discussion continues

SteveM - Elron | AC 21, HP 27/36 d20=10 ; d20=12 ; d20=11 ; d20=7 ;
Monday February 15th, 2021 11:26:11 PM
"Mundhi has taken the worst o' th' fightin'. If she needs to rest, we rest. We can plan our assault on th' tower and start again in th' mornin'."

Unfortunately, Elron cannot contribute to the healing anyone might need, other than the small chance of treating deadly wounds. (No successful rolls.)

Asimov | Hugh | AC 15/12/13 HP 23/29
Tuesday February 16th, 2021 12:47:42 AM
Asimov says, "As I said I'm out of healing as I didn't prepare any. Should I prepare all healing tomorrow or a mix of fire and healing?"

The Twins(Mitch) HP 38/38 AC 24/12/22 Saves +4 Fort/+3 Ref/+1 Will
Tuesday February 16th, 2021 7:21:11 AM
The twins agree that resting seems a good idea.

Zeoll the Greensinger | AC15, 16/16hp | Cayzle d20+11=28 ; d20+11=31 ;
Tuesday February 16th, 2021 8:16:31 AM

"Well, therre is still light in the day," says Zeoll. "I'd like to rrule out the rroof. Do we have any way to just look up therre?"

Since we are already outside after the burials, Zeoll looks for trees that are tall enough for a climber to be able to see the top of the roof from the upper branches.

Then he puts his greensinger abilities to good use. He uses fascinate and beast-soother to attract and befriend a local bird or small climbing animal.

Perform Song with Guidance 28, 31

Then, using his domain ability to speak with animals, Zeoll asks the creature to take a look and report back as to whether there are plants or berries growing on the roof of the keep.

Honor Bright [AC 19; HP 22/24] (Kathy)
Tuesday February 16th, 2021 11:50:43 AM
"Well, I can heal," Honor tells Asimov. "But I can't shoot fire or acid. So I'd prefer to have you keep preparing those things. But it's up to you."

DM Kathy
Tuesday February 16th, 2021 4:00:42 PM
On balance, you decide that resting is your best bet.

Zeoll sends a sparrow to scout the roof. She comes back and tells you that there are no plants up there, just moss.

Asimov and Honor have a brief conversation about strategy and what to prepare for the next day's adventures.

As a reminder: those damaged by the glowing electrical things took nonlethal damage, which should heal in a few hours.

Your rest is uneventful, and you can prepare for new adventures today.

SteveM - Elron | AC 21, HP 33/36
Tuesday February 16th, 2021 9:51:15 PM
Before fighting the krak'len Elron was at 30 hp, so after a night's rest he's at 33.

In the morning, Elron's ready to search some more and thinks they more or less settled on the tower as the place to start. "Not that there ain't some myst'ry to th' krak'lens bein' there, but I'd prefer to try th' less thinky things first."

Asimov | Hugh | AC 15/12/13 HP 29/29
Wednesday February 17th, 2021 1:23:21 AM
Asimov spends the next morning preparing his devices.

For thingamabobs he makes the corrosive pistol, light emitter, magic detector and food detoxifier.

For 1st level devices he makes 2 flaming gloves (burning hands) and 2 fire handling gloves (produce flame) thinking back to the caution about burning down the keep he thinks it is probably a good idea to have flames he can target and an area of effect flame attack.

He says, "I made a food detoxifier. If you want to try to stick that sickly berry we found in it, we can"

The Twins(Mitch) HP 38/38 AC 24/12/22 Saves +4 Fort/+3 Ref/+1 Will
Wednesday February 17th, 2021 6:26:24 AM
The Twins watch Asimov's preparations with great interest. Fascinating." "We have never seen such devices before."

Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant, large (Kim) AC 16 Touch 12 FF14 HP 27/32
Wednesday February 17th, 2021 2:39:03 PM

As they choose to try to get some rest after the burial service, Mundhildur takes another of her large woolen blankets. She works on cutting, sewing, shaping it. It being somewhat thick material, and spiders being little bitey critters, it might serve as a barrier to preclude or mitigate some of the sorts of spider bites she got a day before. She also adds some pull strings (unbraiding a few feet of rope to obtain cordage) at wrists and ankles, and a belt. Her head and hands will remain uncovered. Rather than making a dress of it, she cuts and sews pants. Her feet are shod with leather shoes. She asks the Twins for help in checking the quality of the sewing job.

"When I get moving around, this is going to be hot to wear," Mundhi comments. "This is not my most pretty clothing. But I hope it will help around the spiders. I plan to get it wet, so that if we have fire we're using, I'll be less likely to catch fire." She sees how well she can move while wearing, makes certain that she is not going to be splitting seams.

In the morning she says, "I feel much better now." (She's down 5 hp, rather than 17 as before).

"I have an iron pot. How about we get a fire going, and put the burning wood inside of it to make smoke, and try to sweep spiders into it? Maybe one or two of us should see if smoke works against them before we fully commit, because if it does not affect them much, then maybe we should not spend too much time messing with it. Besides, if it gets too thick, it could hurt us. I don't know. What do you all think?"

Honor Bright [AC 19; HP 24/24] (Kathy)
Wednesday February 17th, 2021 4:28:09 PM
Honor helps set up camp, and stands a watch. Her nonlethal damage heals overnight.

She tries to help with the spider preparations, but has nothing to add. Basically, if it can't be hit with a sword, she has nothing to offer.

DM Kathy
Wednesday February 17th, 2021 5:47:17 PM
You awaken, strike camp, and make preparations. Asimov prepares more fire devices. Mundhildur improvises a garment, and suggests using her cooking pot to capture and roast some spiders.

From the sound of things, you have decided on the tower as your first order of business. You remember where it is. The door to the tower still sticks, but not as badly as before. You are able to get it open.

Once again, you are looking at crates and barrels covered in thick webs. A rickety staircase ascends to a trapdoor.

From the doorway, you see no spiders. But you know they're there. Well, they were there yesterday, so you assume.

Please use the map if your character moves or does anything.

SteveM - Elron | AC 21, HP 33/36
Wednesday February 17th, 2021 8:15:16 PM
Elron peers in through the door and tries to estimate how long it would take him to reach the trap door -- he's probably the lightest in the group and least likely to have the staircase give way. He steps back to make sure the trap door goes into another chamber, and not to the roof.

"I'm still thinkin' that if we stand in th' sun and they have a shady spot to go to, we could try smokin' 'em out without too much worry."

Asimov | Hugh | AC 15/12/13 HP 29/29 d20+4=10 ; d6+3=8 ;
Thursday February 18th, 2021 1:28:37 AM
Asimov says, "Let me assemble chompy and send it spider hunting. It is a small construct after all so we might be able to lure some spiders out to attack it while we attack the spiders from a distance."

"I have fire handling gloves now so I can lob 3 balls of flame per glove at the spiders."

Asimov starts assembling chompy.

If he can take the full round action he will completely assemble it. If his friends are on board with the plan he'd like to open the door and send Chompy in to poke around while readying an action to use a fire handling glove to hurl a small ball of flame at the first spider to rear its ugly head.

readied attack if needed: 10 vs touch; 8 fire damage if that hits

devices prepared:
0th: magic detector, food detoxifier, light emitter, corrosive pistol
1st: fire handling gloves x2 flaming gloves x2

AC 16 Touch 12 FF 15
HP 21
Speed 20 ft
Hardness 5
Immune: construct traits
Fort +0, Ref +1, Will -5
2 slams +3 (1d3)

The Twins(Mitch) HP 38/38 AC 24/12/22 Saves +4 Fort/+3 Ref/+1 Will
Thursday February 18th, 2021 6:24:31 AM
The twins are fine with sending the construct in first. They bring a torch lit from the campfire so as to be ready to help burn things as needed.

Zeoll the Greensinger | AC15, 16/16hp | Cayzle
Thursday February 18th, 2021 10:50:41 AM

Zeoll readies his bardic song to start the moment that a fight breaks out.

Honor Bright [AC 19; HP 24/24] (Kathy)
Thursday February 18th, 2021 2:30:57 PM
Honor wasn't much good against the spiders the first time, and she sees no reason that would change today. She stands ready to back up and heal her companions, but there's not much she can do directly.

DM Kathy
Thursday February 18th, 2021 3:46:16 PM
Elron looks at the trapdoor. It appears to lead onto the roof of the tower. You assess the distance. It isn't far, but you're going to have to take it carefully, even at your lighter weight. [The stairs require an Acrobatics check to climb.]

Asimov assembles Chompy and proposes sending it in first.

The Twins endorse this plan and light a torch.

Zeoll and Honor stand by to assist.

And the map.

SteveM - Elron | AC 21, HP 33/36
Thursday February 18th, 2021 6:31:23 PM
The group's got a plan -- Elron will let it play out before trying the trap door. Besides, if the door leads to the roof, he's already expecting berries will not be up there. But there might be something inside the tower.

Asimov | Hugh | AC 15/12/13 HP 29/29 d20+7=26 ; d20+4=20 ; d6+3=8 ;
Friday February 19th, 2021 12:28:45 AM
Asimov opens the door to the tower for Chompy and the construct takes a double move action around the tower.

Chompy takes a double move action. It moves through r - u 15 and 16.

Asimov readies to attack with fire handling gloves should any spiders show up.

Perception: 26
readied Attack : 20 vs touch; 8 fire damage

devices prepared:
0th: magic detector, food detoxifier, light emitter, corrosive pistol
1st: fire handling gloves x2 flaming gloves x2

AC 16 Touch 12 FF 15
HP 21
Speed 20 ft
Hardness 5
Immune: construct traits
Fort +0, Ref +1, Will -5
2 slams +3 (1d3)

The Twins(Mitch) HP 38/38 AC 24/12/22 Saves +4 Fort/+3 Ref/+1 Will
Friday February 19th, 2021 8:07:51 AM
One of the twins draws a long bow, ready to support the mage in a ranged assault.

Zeoll the Greensinger | AC15, 16/16hp | Cayzle
Friday February 19th, 2021 10:21:30 AM

"Good idea, Asimov, thank you."

Zeoll is ready to sing before any of his friends attack. (that will grant a +1 to attacks and damage)

Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant, large (Kim) AC 16 Touch 12 FF14 HP 30/32
Friday February 19th, 2021 12:21:53 PM

In the morning Mundhi prepares a fire. She gathers some wood from outside, and perhaps some from broken furniture inside. Leftover straw from the strawmen. Once the fire is going well, she transfers the coals and fuel into the iron pot. She wraps and ties cloth around three different sticks, creating some crude torches. "Does anyone have any oil?" she asks. If so, she will soak the torches in the oil. If not, she simply makes do with what she does have.

From the Library, she looks to find a book, any book, that does not appear to be touched by the mold that covers many of the books. If she finds such, she fetches it to use the paper as fuel at the appropriate time. If there are clearly no books not mold-touched, then she abandons that notion. If she finds a useful tome, then she cuts out about half of the pages.

Using the utility blanket she has been using for many things, she soaks it in water. This, folded over a few times for insulation, she uses to carry the fire pot into the tower room. She lights a torch, and asks if anyone else would like a torch. "I thought I would use two, but if someone wants my spare, go ahead."

If spider swarms reappear, she lights the 2nd torch, too, and will use them to defend.
======
Note: in addition to the non-lethal damage healed, Mundhildur also got back 3 hp of normal damage by getting a good night's sleep. So she is only 2 hp down from full.

Honor Bright [AC 19; HP 24/24] (Kathy)
Friday February 19th, 2021 3:35:31 PM
Honor remains on standby.

DM Kathy
Friday February 19th, 2021 3:58:06 PM
Elron decides to wait before trying the stairs.

Mundhildur prepares some fire. The only book in the library that was not touched by the mold is the book of hymns, which is probably too valuable to be torn up for kindling.

Zeoll stands ready to sing. The Twins pull a longbow, ready to provide ranged support. Honor is just generally ready.

Asimov sends Chompy into the tower. The animated bear trap hops around on the ground for a while, but there is no sign of any spiders.

Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant, large (Kim) AC 16 Touch 12 FF14 HP 30/32
Saturday February 20th, 2021 12:24:18 AM

Since she was unable to find a usable book in the library, instead she would have availed herself of some of the ragged clothing to be found in a couple of rooms the group earlier visited. She stuffs a bunch of said rags into a bag or two.

Asimov | Hugh | AC 15/12/13 HP 29/29 d20+7=27 ; d20+4=23 ; d6+3=7 ;
Saturday February 20th, 2021 5:39:53 PM
Asimov instructs Chompy to continue his double move sweep this time the construct moves through r - u 17 and 18 in the map.

Asimov again readies an actiion to use fire handling gloves should any spider make itself known.

Perception: 27
Readied Attack: 23 vs touch; 7 fire damage

AC 16 Touch 12 FF 15
HP 21
Speed 20 ft
Hardness 5
Immune: construct traits
Fort +0, Ref +1, Will -5
2 slams +3 (1d3)

Zeoll the Greensinger | AC15, 16/16hp | Cayzle
Saturday February 20th, 2021 9:13:36 PM

Zeoll moves into the tower following Chompy. (moved on map)

"If they do not come out when a big juicy taurr walks in, then they trruly are gone."

The Twins(Mitch) HP 38/38 AC 24/12/22 Saves +4 Fort/+3 Ref/+1 Will
Sunday February 21st, 2021 4:24:43 PM
The twins stand ready to support.

Honor Bright [AC 19; HP 24/24] (Kathy)
Monday February 22nd, 2021 4:39:51 PM
"But I don't understand. Why would they have left?" Honor asks. "Where did they go?"

Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant, large (Kim) AC 16 Touch 12 FF14 HP 30/32
Monday February 22nd, 2021 5:07:07 PM

"Hey, red twin - your arrows are highly unlikely to do much against a swarm of spiders. You need something broader to attack them with. Killing one or two spiders out of hundreds makes little notable difference," says Mundhildur. She asks, "You got something like a big flat board you can womp them with? Or want to help with the fire and smoke brigade?"

DM Kathy
Monday February 22nd, 2021 5:46:45 PM
Asimov instructs Chompy to continue its circuit, but no spiders appear.

Zeoll follows, but no spiders appear.

Both Zeoll and Chompy have now been all over the ground floor of the tower, and no spiders have popped out to bother them.

Zeoll the Greensinger | AC15, 16/16hp | Cayzle
Monday February 22nd, 2021 7:04:24 PM

"Come on in all!" calls Zeoll. "Can Chompy go up stairrs? AREE therre stairrs?"

SteveM - Elron | AC 21, HP 33/36
Monday February 22nd, 2021 8:03:51 PM
"Zeoll, you old coot! O' course there are stairs, against that wall over there." Elron remembers reaching the stairs before the spiders came out last time, but figured he must've brushed some webs to set them off. With Zeoll and that metal monstrosity clomping around in there, many webs must've been brushed now.

Asimov | Hugh | AC 15/12/13 HP 29/29
Tuesday February 23rd, 2021 1:47:44 AM
Asimov enters the towers after his animated bear trap.

He says, "I mean he doesn't have a climb speed or anything but I don't see why he couldn't make the attempt. I could have optimized him and gave him one less slam for a climb speed, though if you want a wait a bit we could have the effect wear off and I can remake him with the ability to climb"

Chompy stats
AC 16 Touch 12 FF 15
HP 21
Speed 20 ft
Hardness 5
Immune: construct traits
Fort +0, Ref +1, Will -5
2 slams +3 (1d3)

Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant, large (Kim) AC 16 Touch 12 FF14 HP 30/32
Tuesday February 23rd, 2021 3:56:43 PM

"Or I can toss a rope up over a rafter, tie one end on to Chompy, and lift him up," Mundhildur says. "As soon as someone with a fleshy body climbs the stairs, that's when the spiders likely will show up."

Honor Bright [AC 19; HP 24/24] (Kathy)
Tuesday February 23rd, 2021 5:39:01 PM
"Oh, interesting!" Honor says. "Could Chompy explore up there? Is there some way he can tell us what he sees?"

SteveM - Elron | AC 21, HP 33/36
Tuesday February 23rd, 2021 7:50:48 PM
"Can that, I say, can that clatterin' contraption talk?" Elron doesn't remember hearing Chompy say anything before.

Zeoll the Greensinger | AC15, 16/16hp | Cayzle
Tuesday February 23rd, 2021 9:28:12 PM

Zeoll waits, song readied, for Chompy to ascend.

DM Kathy
Tuesday February 23rd, 2021 10:20:54 PM
Elron remembers that the spiders didn't show up until he was on the stairs. A coincidence? Or is that where they live?

Asimov offers to send Chompy up, and there is some discussion of the logistics of that. How good of an explorer will Chompy be, really?

Asimov | Hugh | AC 15/12/13 HP 29/29
Wednesday February 24th, 2021 1:05:58 AM
Asimov says, "Well Chompy can't talk and I mean it is an animated object so I don't think it will give us any insight or anything but it is small and won't break the stairs. Will any of us be able to climb up there safely? Is there an alternative way up there that we aren't necessarily seeing? Does anyone have a grappling hook? Maybe we could climb up in a safer fashion using a rope."

SteveM - Elron | AC 21, HP 33/36
Wednesday February 24th, 2021 7:12:24 AM
"Near as I can tell, th' trap door just leads to th' roof. We could search 'round down here for clues about th' berries. Or we can try climbin' up th' outside to get a better look."

Honor Bright [AC 19; HP 24/24] (Kathy)
Wednesday February 24th, 2021 12:29:10 PM
"I have a grappling hook," Honor says. "And some rope to go with it."

Zeoll the Greensinger | AC15, 16/16hp | Cayzle d20+4=20 ;
Wednesday February 24th, 2021 4:35:33 PM
"Good idea, my dearr," Zeoll tells Honor. "Go on ahead and make the toss, or I can trry it if you prreferr."

The liontaur prays for guidance and sings for a round and then makes the toss: he rolls a ranged attack of 20 to land and latch the hook.

Or Honor can try with a total of +2 to hit from Zeoll.

DM Kathy
Wednesday February 24th, 2021 5:12:16 PM
Asimov acknowledges that Chompy can't talk, so his use as an explorer is limited. He asks whether anybody has a grappling hook.

Honor has one, with rope to go with it.

Elron suggests climbing up the outside of the tower, but Zeoll likes the grappling hook idea.

Whoever throws the grappling hook will need to make a ranged attack against AC 5. The range increment is 10 feet, and the top of the tower is 40 feet up. That's a -6 to the throw.

Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant, large (Kim) AC 16 Touch 12 FF14 HP 30/32
Wednesday February 24th, 2021 8:32:30 PM

"Well cast, Zeoll. Are most liontaurs good at playing with rope?" Mundhildur asks. She holds the tail end of the rope.

SteveM - Elron | AC 21, HP 33/36
Wednesday February 24th, 2021 10:47:10 PM
Elron watches the others play with the rope -- a rope that could help them climb the outside. He's still willing to try the stairs himself. "Just remember when th' spiders appear'd they attacked everyone in th' tower."

Asimov | Hugh | AC 15/12/13 HP 29/29
Thursday February 25th, 2021 1:46:35 AM
Asimov says to Elron, "Do you think you could manage the stairs and if you get into trouble do you think any of us would be able to get to you?"

Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant, large (Kim) AC 16 Touch 12 FF14 HP 30/32
Thursday February 25th, 2021 11:52:03 AM

"How about this instead, Asimov?" Mundhi asks. "I've got extra rope. We tie it on to what Zeoll just sent up, then loop it around. We make a couple of small loops for Elron to put a hand and a foot into, then I pull him up. That way, if it's the vibration on the stairs that calls the eight-leggers, well, they will not get that message. He can look around and see what's interesting without us having to flail around as the wicked biters attack."

Honor Bright [AC 19; HP 24/24] (Kathy)
Thursday February 25th, 2021 3:47:54 PM
Honor is content to let Zeoll throw the grappling hook, especially since he'll have the benefit of his spell.

"I throw like a girl," she says with a little laugh.

DM Kathy
Thursday February 25th, 2021 6:03:25 PM
Honor doesn't insist on throwing the grappling hook herself, and Zeoll, with the help of his True Strike, is able to get it hooked over the edge of the open trap door.

There's some disagreement about what to do next. Elron still wants to climb the outside of the tower. Asimov suggests that Elron try the stairs. Mundhildur suggests looping the rope to haul Elron up that way.

Asimov | Hugh | AC 15/12/13 HP 29/29
Thursday February 25th, 2021 9:21:46 PM
Asimov says, "I wasn't trying to suggest Elron use the stairs. I was asking him if he used the stairs and got into trouble would we be able to help him. I think the answer was no so I'm okay sending someone up using the rope. I'm not much of a climber and I don't know how to make any devices to help with that so if Elron and Mundi want to get him up there I'm on board with it."

SteveM - Elron | AC 21, HP 33/36
Thursday February 25th, 2021 10:40:39 PM
Elron isn't sure he followed everything that Asimov just said, but thinks the gist of it is that he should climb the rope. He's fine with that, especially when Mundhildur explains there's a way to do it that doesn't require actual climbing.

Zeoll the Greensinger | AC15, 16/16hp | Cayzle
Thursday February 25th, 2021 11:48:41 PM
[OOC: Wait what? Zeoll has no True Strike in this incarnation. It's not a bard or druid spell, lol. He is getting a +1 from Guidance and another +1 from inspire competence.]

Anyway, Zeoll is glad that his throw is on target. Also, he likes the idea of Elron climbing the rope without touching the stairs ... "But I say, it's not forr me to tell ourr nimble frriend wherre or how to climb. I trust yourr judgement, Brrotherr Elrron."

Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant, large (Kim) AC 16 Touch 12 FF14 HP 30/32 d20+2=6 ; d20+2=14 ; d20+2=11 ; d20+2=6 ; d20+2=11 ; d20+2=4 ; d20+2=20 ; d20+2=9 ; d20+2=22 ;
Friday February 26th, 2021 6:56:07 PM

Mundhi takes a moment to make a loop in the rope for Elron's foot. She puts her finger through it - and pulls it loose. She tries again. All right, this time, it's serviceable. Then for his hand. Not terrible, but not good. She goes back and forth, tying, testing, failing. Finally, she gets the right knot, and that hand loop is good and secure. "If I didn't weigh so much, I would trust this to hold me, Elron. But you are much lighter and fluffier than I. So, your - foot? through this lower one. And a hand or two through or hanging on tight to this upper one."

"Oh, wait. The moving loop of rope." Again she takes an initial stab at it. Just so-so. She modifies her approach, tries again. Nat 20 (22). "There. You stand on that side, using the loops. I pull from this side, and up you go."
If he does

Honor Bright [AC 19; HP 24/24] (Kathy)
Friday February 26th, 2021 10:50:24 PM
Since everyone is occupied inside the tower, Honor turns and watches for trouble coming from the other direction.

The Twins(Mitch) HP 38/38 AC 24/12/22 Saves +4 Fort/+3 Ref/+1 Will
Sunday February 28th, 2021 7:27:33 AM
The Twins stay alert and ready, though they're starting to wonder where these spiders that are supposed to be here are.

Asimov | Hugh | AC 15/12/13 HP 29/29
Sunday February 28th, 2021 10:15:07 PM
Asimov says, "I don't suppose anyone brought a block and tackle? This seems almost like a tailor made situation for one."

Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant, large (Kim) AC 16 Touch 12 FF14 HP 30/32
Monday March 1st, 2021 3:02:55 AM

"Uh, yes, Asimov. I have two of them. Want to help me get them set up to make this work better?" Mundhi asks the fellow who is so good with putting things together.

Asimov | Hugh | AC 15/12/13 HP 29/29
Monday March 1st, 2021 10:59:48 AM
Asimov says, "Ok, so can't we use the block and tackle to create a system where someone could raise or lower themselves by pulling on a rope? We run the rope through the block and tackle having the other end of the rope tied to either a harness or platform we fashion and then once someone gets to the top they either disengage the harness or step off the platform and it is easy to get up their to explore the tower top?"

DM Kathy
Monday March 1st, 2021 12:39:30 PM
After some discussion and wrangling, you are able to rig a system to pull somebody to the top of the tower while avoiding the rickety stairs. You hoist Elron--or perhaps he hoists himself; it doesn't matter--and he is able to go through the trapdoor. And finds....nothing. Well, there's a nice view of the surrounding countryside, but that's about it. No sign of any berries or vines. Or spiders, for that matter.

Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant, large (Kim) AC 16 Touch 12 FF14 HP 30/32
Monday March 1st, 2021 4:40:07 PM

"Bats. Let's go look in the Bat Room - that pile of rubble just beyond the prison cells," suggests Mundhildur. "Unless someone has another idea as to what to do next. Or should we poke around the inner edges of this tower, in hopes that the spiders return?"

Zeoll the Greensinger | AC15, 16/16hp | Cayzle
Monday March 1st, 2021 10:19:03 PM

Zeoll retrieves his rope and gets ready for bats.

I just hope the spiders did not eat the berries!" he says.

Asimov | Hugh | AC 15/12/13 HP 29/29 d20+7=12 ;
Tuesday March 2nd, 2021 2:16:18 AM
Asimov asks, "Is it a bat room or more of a bat cave?"

To Zeoll he says, "I'd be worried more about the bats eating them. Aren't spiders carnivorous while some bats are called fruit bats?"

He double checks his fire equipment and prepares to search the bat room or cave depending.

(Perception: 12)

The Twins(Mitch) HP 38/38 AC 24/12/22 Saves +4 Fort/+3 Ref/+1 Will
Tuesday March 2nd, 2021 6:42:12 AM
The twins are a bit confused as to the lack of spiders. "Why were you expecting spiders again?" one asks. "Perhaps it's just a fancy name." the other posits.

SteveM - Elron | AC 21, HP 33/36
Tuesday March 2nd, 2021 11:11:13 AM
Elron climbs back down, ready to try the next location. Hopefully not the one with the krak'len, though. Unless the -- "Say, twins. Just what are your talents? I mean, we've seen the nice swordplay, but . . ."

Honor Bright [AC 19; HP 24/24] (Kathy)
Tuesday March 2nd, 2021 11:51:13 AM
Honor looks around the little tower room. "There are all these boxes and crates and things," she says. "You don't suppose there might be berries in one of them?"

Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant, large (Kim) AC 16 Touch 12 FF14 HP 30/32
Tuesday March 2nd, 2021 4:03:39 PM

"Oh, boxes and crates?!" Mundhildur strikes her forehead with the palm of her hand. "Of course. Let's start opening. Shut the lid quickly if spiders start crawling out. Otherwise, yes, let us berry search."

She finds a crate, and opens it. She has the tools (crowbar, if necessary).

DM Kathy
Tuesday March 2nd, 2021 5:17:46 PM
You are just about to leave the watchtower and move on when Honor points out all the boxes and barrels here.

Mundhildur has a crowbar, so you set to work. Mostly you find damaged, rotted, or worthless goods. However, in one box you do find a very nice shortsword wrapped in oilcloth, and a wand that pings as magic, which proves to be a Wand of Cure Light Wounds with 19 charges remaining.

Asimov | Hugh | AC 15/12/13 HP 29/29
Tuesday March 2nd, 2021 9:40:37 PM
Asimov says, "That wand sure is convenient. Certainly takes strain off of my gadgets not needing to use spaces for a medihaler. I even have some skill in the use of magical devices though I'm not sure how consistent my wand activations would be."

Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant, large (Kim) AC 16 Touch 12 FF14 HP 30/32
Wednesday March 3rd, 2021 2:47:42 AM

If we have completed the search through the boxes and crates and deteriorating items (nice on the sword and wand), then Mundhi says, "It's not really cavelike, Azi. The wall fell down, and the stones and bricks make up a pile of rubble. I think the bats tuck themselves into the crevices of the jumble. The prison wall is the rest of it - though I did not get a good look inside - figured if I started climbing up on the bricks, there would be a flock - do you say flock? - of bats awakened and swarming around me. But lets try the door, instead of going over the bricks, say?"

The Twins(Mitch) HP 38/38 AC 24/12/22 Saves +4 Fort/+3 Ref/+1 Will
Wednesday March 3rd, 2021 8:10:49 AM
"Combat is our skill." "Our calling." "We are experts in offense" "And defense" "Melee" "And ranged." As they talk they indicate their various weapons. They seem to have a two handed blade, a sword and a shield, and some very fine bows. Add in their thick, magical plate and there being two of them they could, in theory, do as they claim, holding the line with shield, peppering the enemies with arrows, or breaking enemy lines with their heavy greatsword.

They take an interest in the sword, comparing it to their own. (if it's masterwork it's an upgrade that they'd like)

Honor Bright [AC 19; HP 24/24] (Kathy)
Wednesday March 3rd, 2021 1:00:31 PM
Honor looks at the shortsword, but of course nothing could replace her father's longsword. "Anyway, I've had more practice with it," she says.

Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant, large (Kim) AC 16 Touch 12 FF14 HP 30/32
Wednesday March 3rd, 2021 3:04:54 PM

"Whoever can use and and want it, fine by me. Let's head over to the Bat Room," she says, and walks that way. It's really just across the hall. She checks the door to see if it will open easily - but, if so, she just barely cracks it open, waiting for others to arrive.

DM Kathy
Wednesday March 3rd, 2021 4:28:59 PM
The shortsword is masterwork, but not magical. For now, the Twins are carrying it, since it's the wrong size for Elron, and Honor prefers Virtue.

Mundhildur leads the way to the "bat room." You find the door unlocked and ajar, though you have to shove it open through a small drift of loose rocks. The room is mostly debris, though you can see the remains of a few pieces of crushed furniture around.

Zeoll the Greensinger | AC15, 16/16hp | Cayzle d20+8=27 ; d20+11=16 ; d20+11=14 ;
Wednesday March 3rd, 2021 6:21:51 PM

Zeoll looks for signs that the animals are around. He listens for little bat squeaks. He sniffs for guano. He prays several times for guidance.

Perception 27
Know Nature 16

If there are bats around, Zeoll uses his Greensinger's Wild Empathy song: 14

SteveM - Elron | AC 21, HP 33/36
Wednesday March 3rd, 2021 7:36:59 PM
"Mundi, last time you were here by yourself. Did the bats attack?" Elron looks for a window into this part of the keep. If he finds one, he'll see what he can see inside. If he doesn't find one, then the group might try to do their exploring while the bats are out hunting. Less'n they eat fruit, he thinks.

Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant, large (Kim) AC 16 Touch 12 FF14 HP 30/32 d20+5=24 ;
Wednesday March 3rd, 2021 11:54:35 PM

"No, Elron, I let them sleep." She did push the door open so they could go in. She looks around, steps carefully around the area.
==========
Perception: 24

Asimov | Hugh | AC 15/12/13 HP 29/29 d20+7=14 ; d20+8=18 ; d20+8=9 ;
Thursday March 4th, 2021 1:14:27 AM
(Perception: 14)
(Know[dungeoneering]:18)
(Know[engeoneering]:9)

Asimov is careful to stay behind Zeoll when exploring the bat room. He keeps an eye out for Berries and thinks to what the bat's inhabitance of this room might signify

Honor Bright [AC 19; HP 24/24] (Kathy)
Thursday March 4th, 2021 2:16:59 PM
Cautiously, Honor brings up the rear. She doesn't have much to offer when it comes to noticing things, and she suspects that Virtue will do no better against the bats than it did against the spiders.

DM Kathy
Thursday March 4th, 2021 7:44:33 PM
Assuming that Zeoll is in or near the rubble room, and not where his icon appears on the map, he can see the bats, snoozing peacefully in the rubble.

Mundhildur can see the bats as well.

Elron is looking for a window. As is shown on the map, the whole outer wall of that room has collapsed, so while there are no longer any windows, it's possible to see into the area from outside the keep.

Asimov and Honor hang back.

Zeoll knows that the bats are sleeping and it's daytime. They will continue to sleep if they are not disturbed. However, if your group makes any loud noises, or begins moving the rubble around, you'll probably wake them up. It's hard to say what they will do next. They may just fly away. Or they may try to defend their home.

You also know that if there are any berries or vines in the rubble, they're probably smashed.

SteveM - Elron | AC 21, HP 33/36 d20+8=19 ; d20+12=31 ;
Thursday March 4th, 2021 11:44:25 PM
"I'll be quiet," Elron promises as he slips past Mundhildur into the room and -- avoiding the rubble as much as he can -- sees what he can see along the wall opposite the collapsed one. (stealth = 19, perception = 31)

Asimov | Hugh | AC 15/12/13 HP 29/29 d20+7=21 ;
Friday March 5th, 2021 4:12:30 AM
Asimov is careful to be silent. He whispers, "So if the bats are asleep and any berries in this room are likely to be smashed what is the play? Is there anywhere else in this place where the berries could be that we haven't looked? Should I run the dessicated berries we found through the food detoxifier and see what happens to them?"

He asks Zeoll, "Are they fruit bats or do they eat insects? Do you know?"

He then loops around outside the keep and tries to peer in to the batroom from the open wall. (Perception: 21). Does this vantage offer him any more insight into anything?

The Twins(Mitch) HP 38/38 AC 24/12/22 Saves +4 Fort/+3 Ref/+1 Will
Friday March 5th, 2021 11:25:20 AM
The twins stay outside. The fewer people inside, the less likely it is someone will accidentally wake the bats.

Honor Bright [AC 19; HP 24/24] (Kathy)
Friday March 5th, 2021 2:40:25 PM
Honor also remains in the hallway, to limit the number of people in the room.

Zeoll | SteveM sub for Cayzle
Friday March 5th, 2021 10:46:31 PM
Zeoll prepares to calm animals if it becomes necessary.

Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant, large (Kim) AC 16 Touch 12 FF14 HP 30/32
Friday March 5th, 2021 11:28:02 PM
Mundi lets Elron pass, and stands quietly just inside the door, ready to move if necessary, or stand still should that seem the wiser course.

DM Kathy
Saturday March 6th, 2021 3:48:13 PM
You are cautious as you explore the room. Those inside the room are careful in their movements, and many in the party stay out of the room altogether.

Elron does see the sleeping bats, but not much else. The room is a total ruin.

Asimov asks whether there is a place berries could be where you haven't looked. In fact, there is. In the room where the strange energy orbs attacked, there were cabinets. You never got a chance to look inside them, though, because the orbs chased you out pretty quickly.

Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant, large (Kim) AC 16 Touch 12 FF14 HP 30/32
Sunday March 7th, 2021 5:33:30 AM

"Say, those cabinets. I don't see what we can do with, or against, the orbs. But we can look into the cabinets - weren't there a bunch of old cupboards at the far side of the room? If they are not fixed to the wall or floor, maybe we can grab them and run. Or, tie ropes around them, and drag them out. Someone looked in a desk there, but didn't mention finding anything. Details are fuzzy for me - I kept on getting stung. Or whatever it is electricity does to you."

"So, back to the buzzy orbs, look inside, then take turns dashing within and grabbing things to bring out?"

If that seems reasonable to the rest of the crew, Mundhi waits first for everyone to quietly leave the bats to their naps, then heads out with them toward the room in question.

Zeoll | SteveM sub for Cayzle d20+8=13 ;
Sunday March 7th, 2021 11:10:12 PM
Elron tries to leave without disturbing the bats. (Stealth = 13)

"Yeah, th' krak'len. . . I know from they way they was swoopin' about they don't care none 'bout them drawers. Say, one of you two got some way to talk to 'em?" Elron eyes Zeoll and Asimov when he asks his question.

Asimov | Hugh | AC 15/12/13 HP 29/29
Monday March 8th, 2021 2:02:01 AM
Asimov says, "I don't have anyway to talk to them and if you remember from last time I was one of the onlt ones doing damage so presumably they'll target me. I mean I can utilize my fire handling gloves to attempt to smack them with a fireball in melee instead of throwing from a distance and you guys could try to distract the cracklins so I'm not as easy to hit."

Honor Bright [AC 19; HP 24/24] (Kathy)
Monday March 8th, 2021 11:43:56 AM
Honor nods at Asimov's plan. "We just need to distract them long enough for somebody to check the cabinets," she says. "They didn't chase us before once we'd left the room, so hopefully they won't again."

DM Kathy
Monday March 8th, 2021 3:04:09 PM
Remembering the cabinets, you abandon the bat ruins for now and head back down the hall. You have strategies in place for dealing with the glowing energy balls, but when you reach the room, you see no sign of them. Maybe they're sleeping somewhere? Do those things even sleep?

Anyway, you are able to search the cabinets. You find a few pieces of tarnished cutlery. And, at last, you get your first glimpse of a silverberry vine.

It is not, alas, a real silverberry vine; it is a drawing of one. It is on a label for a bottle of wine. There are four such bottles, labeled "Silver Sav" with a silverberry vine artfully drawn next to the name. On the bottom of the label is a note that Silver Sav is produced from silverberry berries.

You find no real vines or berries. The wine is the best you've got.

Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant, large (Kim) AC 16 Touch 12 FF14 HP 30/32
Monday March 8th, 2021 5:33:32 PM

"No zappers, good. Ah, cutlery! I can polish it up, could be handy." Mundhi takes a moment to justify her actions, though the thought had not occurred to her earlier. "If this place were conventionally inhabited, I would not take it. But, aside from bugs and molds and bats and such, and the sadly deceased dwarfs, and two fresh prisoners - well, that is not what I call conventionally inhabited."

"So, wine, produced by silver berries. And with these drawings, we know better what they look like. Now, the sweet youngin does not grow better as we are out in search of healing for her. Shall we search further, hoping to find some living berries? Or, do we take this wine, and the other ingredients, and see if the nobleman can fashion what he needs to for her?" she asks her friends.

SteveM - Elron | AC 21, HP 33/36
Monday March 8th, 2021 5:52:06 PM
"I say we climb up to th' roof and see if we can see where there might've some silverberry vinyards when this place was inhabited. 'Lessen I misunderstand these things, you need a sizeable source o' fruit to make a wine business."

"An' if we don't see nothin', we can see if the wine's good enough for th' little girl."

Zeoll | SteveM sub for Cayzle
Monday March 8th, 2021 11:00:52 PM
"Perrhaps tomorrrow I can preparre a detect animals and plants and walk around outside the keep. Forr now, let's see if we find anything else."

Asimov | Hugh | AC 15/12/13 HP 29/29 d20+8=16 ; d20+8=11 ;
Tuesday March 9th, 2021 1:05:44 AM
Asimov says, "well we have the wine and we have the solo desicated berry and we have some bottles of wine and a better depiction of the silver berry."

"None of my devices will help with this but maybe the Silver Sav bottles have jogged my memories at least when it comes to geography or history"

(Know[history]: 16 - anything relevant about winery that produced Silver Sav)
(Know[geography]: 11 - could the producer of the vintage be close?)

The Twins(Mitch) HP 38/38 AC 24/12/22 Saves +4 Fort/+3 Ref/+1 Will
Tuesday March 9th, 2021 8:18:08 AM
The twins eye the bottle with interest. "We came here for that." "We were expecting oak barrels though." "Is the seal still intact?"

Honor Bright [AC 19; HP 24/24] (Kathy)
Tuesday March 9th, 2021 12:56:39 PM
"Whether the wine will work or not, it looks like it's the best we can do," Honor says. "I wonder what happened to the rest of the vines and berries?"

DM Kathy
Tuesday March 9th, 2021 2:47:18 PM
Mundhildur packs the cutlery away.

The Twins mention that the wine is what they came here for. Indeed, it is a rare vintage and each bottle will probably fetch a good price.

Of course, some of it may need to be used to formulate the cure, because you are beginning to suspect that there are no actual berries to be had.

At Elron's suggestion, you ascend to the top of the tower again and look for where the keep once grew its berries. You do find something that might have once been a vineyard. When you investigate, you discover that it is overgrown with weeds. Mundhildur and Zeoll, examining the area, realize the the local fauna seem to think the berries and vines are (or rather were) quite delicious. All you can find of the former vines are a few roots. Some of them do still have a quick, so it's possible they can be coaxed to grow into new vines, but that process will take a year at least.

Azimov gives it some thought, but you can't recall anything about this vintage.

Honor suggests that the wine may be the best you can do here, and it's starting to look like she is right. You've examined the rest of the keep, and there's just nothing else here. Maybe the wine will be enough. You have to hope it will.

Zeoll | SteveM sub for Cayzle
Tuesday March 9th, 2021 7:08:26 PM
Zeoll carefully gathers the roots and stubs left of the plants, thinking that if the bottles are not of use their patron might be able to find a way to use them.

SteveM - Elron | AC 21, HP 33/36
Tuesday March 9th, 2021 10:02:30 PM
Elron says, "Ya know, it's that time of year when blackberries is red 'cause they're still green." Maybe Asimov's food fixer thingy can help, too.

Asimov | Hugh | AC 15/12/13 HP 29/29
Wednesday March 10th, 2021 4:37:07 AM
Asimov says, "I don't know if the food detoxifier will help or not. It functions like the spell purify food and drink so if the sole dissicated berry we found counts as food it would remove toxins from it. Maybe the combination of the purified berry and the wine would be enough to concoct a cure?"

The Twins(Mitch) HP 38/38 AC 24/12/22 Saves +4 Fort/+3 Ref/+1 Will
Wednesday March 10th, 2021 8:40:49 AM
The Twins ask for an explination on why the party needs the berries, either having not been told or wanting a reminder, and upon getting one concede the wine. "Saving a life is more important then profit." "Yes, you're purpose is nobler then ours."

Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant, large (Kim) AC 16 Touch 12 FF14 HP 30/32
Wednesday March 10th, 2021 11:32:00 AM

"Very well," says Mundhi. "Let's go back."

She empties the iron pot of burning sticks and coals in some safe place. Seems there was some water about the place. She'll cool it down, then pack it and the rest of her gear with her mule. "Ready?" she asks.

Honor Bright [AC 19; HP 24/24] (Kathy)
Wednesday March 10th, 2021 1:11:52 PM
"Yes, let's go back," Honor says. "Hopefully this will be enough."

DM Kathy
Wednesday March 10th, 2021 3:48:23 PM
You have completed your exploration of the keep. The wine is all you have to bring back, and you hope it will be enough. You set out for your return journey to Lockridge Mansion.

Of course, you are not entirely empty-handed. You found a fair amount of loot during your exploration. To recap:

In the courtyard, you found three potions of Cure Light Wounds, which were handed to Honor, Zeoll, and Mundhildur. There was also a potion of Cure Moderate Wounds, which was given to Elron. You also found 42 gp in coins; it's not clear who's carrying it. There were also thieves' tools and 50 feet of silk rope.

In the spider tower, you found a Masterwork short sword, which the Twins have, and a Wand of Cure Light Wounds with 19 charges remaining. Asimov currently has that.

The dead dwarf (who appears to have committed suicide) had a light hammer with the symbol of Domi on it. It's not clear whether somebody took it or whether you buried him with it. It could be worth up to 200 gp to the right collector.

You found a +1 double chicken saber, which Elron has. In the same room you found some Masterwork stonemasonry tools, about 62 gp in coins and a single ruby, worth about 300 gp. It's not clear who has all that.

You found the book of Dwarven hymns to Domi, which Honor is currently carrying. It could be worth up to 300 gp to the right collector. There is also a scroll of Spiritual Weapon inside, which none of the party can use.

In the armory, you found 10 +1 flaming bolts and a +1 frost dagger. Elron took the dagger. Honor would have snagged the bolts if nobody else did. [Nobody specifically said they took them at the time.]

One of the dead dwarves in the prison area had on a Ring of Sustenance. Asimov is the one who discovered it, so we'll assume he has it.

In the room with the wine, you also found some cutlery, which Mundhildur put in her bag. Most of it is unremarkable, even when polished up, but there is a Sustaining Spoon and a +1 Merciful knife mixed in with them.

Zeoll the Greensinger | AC15, 16/16hp | Cayzle
Wednesday March 10th, 2021 4:23:57 PM

Zeoll sighs when it is clear that this portion of the quest is only partly achieved. But we did our best, and maybe it will be enough.

He helps carry the loot and then leading the group through the wilderness back to civilization.

[OOC: Thanks Steve for the sub; thanks Kathy for the great DMing!]

SteveM - Elron | AC 21, HP 33/36
Thursday March 11th, 2021 12:08:54 AM
Elron hums to himself softly as he walks down the road. He's not sure the adventure turned out well, but they're headed back to more comfortable surroundings. As long as they don't run across another pumpkin patch on the way, everything's going to be fine.

Asimov | Hugh | AC 15/12/13 HP 29/29
Thursday March 11th, 2021 1:41:57 AM
(OOC1: Asimov put the ring of sustenance on when he found it; the tinkerer would love to not need to sleep as much)

(OOC2: From DM POST Tuesday January 5th, 2021 2:46:53 PM - In the southeast corner of the room is a small sprig from a vine. It’s very long dead and has the husks of 2 very small, shrivelled berries attached. They are in such poor condition that It’s unclear what type of vine or berries these may be...END DM POST... we wanted to run those through the food detoxifier or are those not shrivelled silver berries?)

Asimov says, "So does that mean those shrivelled berries we found on that bit of withered vine weren't silver berries after all now that we have the pictures from the wine label to go off of?"

The Twins(Mitch) HP 38/38 AC 24/12/22 Saves +4 Fort/+3 Ref/+1 Will
Thursday March 11th, 2021 8:11:44 AM
The Twins are ready to go. "We will accompany you to town." "Talk to our employer." "If you don't mind, we'll join you in finishing your quest afterwards." "Nothing better to do."

Honor Bright [AC 19; HP 24/24] (Kathy)
Thursday March 11th, 2021 12:28:57 PM
Honor's mood begins to lighten as she walks down the road away from the keep. Somehow, she hadn't felt like herself there. She's ready for the next challenge.

[OOC: I do not know what the berries are. That information was not included in the material RobC provided. They might be silverberries, or they might be the world famous red-herring-berries. I have no idea. Ask Rob.]

Zeoll the Greensinger | AC15, 16/16hp | Cayzle
Thursday March 11th, 2021 11:11:09 PM

Zeoll makes sure the twins feel welcome. "You two arre just the companions we need to succeed on ourr adventurres! You arre most welcome, do not doubt it."

The liontaur ponders the loot. "The currative items arre always welcome. Perrsonally, I have no need of the rrest. Gold is always useful, of courrse."

[OOC: Hoping for confirmation that we have levelled? Is that official, Kathy?]

RobC - "We will accompany you to town"
Friday March 12th, 2021 1:20:47 AM
The journey back to Lockridge Mansion is indeed a quiet one. Not so much as a hint of adventure or excitement. Depending on your temperament that is either a good or bad thing.

It gives the group time to get to know each other a little better though. Find out who has the best war story, who snores, who picks their nose and so on.

Two of the three ingredients were clearly recovered. As for the Silverberries, well, that is going to be interesting.

The party return the way they came, passing the dead tree that still shows stains of pixie blood. A grim reminder that there is still evil in the Wold.

Returning to the town is nice though. The perfect little village by the harbor. The approaching party are quickly spotted by the residents. They're waving and clutching their hands, happy to see the champions who will save the daughter of their benefactor. A heroes welcome.

Consider yourselves officially levelled!

Asimov | Hugh | AC 15/12/13 HP 29/29
Friday March 12th, 2021 2:26:08 AM
Asimov says "I guess it turns out those shrivelled berries are not actually silver berries but some other berries so the wine is all we have. I guess we'll just have to roll with it. Hopefully it is enough to save the daughter if not maybe our benefactor's library will help us in finding the winery that made the wine and actual berries. I didn't know based on my memory but the library may help us if we need it."

The Twins(Mitch) HP 38/38 AC 24/12/22 Saves +4 Fort/+3 Ref/+1 Will
Friday March 12th, 2021 7:46:10 AM
The twins spend the free time on the way back asking the other's about their homeland's and their customs. In turn they're happy to regale the party with tales of their own distant land, including their own position/title (which I wrote on my character sheet and is to big to copy paste here go read :P)

Honor Bright (Kathy)
Friday March 12th, 2021 12:23:41 PM
Honor is happy to be back in Lowestoft. She smiles and waves back at people. She tries not to show how worried she is. Are they in time? And is what they brought back going to be enough?

Zeoll the Greensinger | AC15, 16/16hp | Cayzle
Friday March 12th, 2021 6:34:44 PM

Zeoll picks his nose while regaling the party with his tales of wars and snores.

The old Taur listens to the Twins and wonders if their homeland is away west of his own, in the archipelago west of the Taur Islands. Or if they are even of the Wold, maybe being from some alternate prime material plane.

SteveM - Elron | AC 21, HP 33/36
Friday March 12th, 2021 6:37:42 PM
Elron follows the group to the house of their patron, ready to report their success. . . of a sort, anyway. Maybe it will be a help.

Zeoll the Greensinger | AC16, 23hp | Cayzle
Friday March 12th, 2021 7:02:56 PM
4th level Zeoll is now up to date!

Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant, large (Kim) AC 17 Touch 13 FF15 HP 41/41
Sunday March 14th, 2021 12:57:41 AM

Mundhildur enjoys listening to people's stories, and tells her own along the way.

I figure that, first night camping, she might have left the utensils in the iron pot to dry after washing - and shortly after found the unexpected gruel within. With the help of those more magically adept, one of them might help identify a particular spoon as the culprit, and with detect magic in operation, learned of the merciful knife. She would like to hang on to these two items.

Back in town, she waves to people, thanks a few who helped her out before the group left on this adventure.

When they meet, presumably, with House Steward Gideon Page, she asks, "How does little Dani - Daniella? We brought things for her."

The Twins(Mitch) HP 38/38 AC 24/12/22 Saves +4 Fort/+3 Ref/+1 Will d10=2 ;
Sunday March 14th, 2021 2:31:57 PM
The Twins make ready to introduce themselves to the employer of their new comrades (and are now leveled)

Asimov and Irony | Hugh | AC 15/12/13 HP 37/37 | AC 13/11/12 HP 29/29 Hardness 2
Sunday March 14th, 2021 11:26:35 PM
As they travel Asimov starts spending time with some of the bric-a-brac collected on the travels until one day Eureka a new companion. A clanking iron gear work medium humanoid monstrosity follows in Asimov's wake.

"Hi everyone! This here is Irony. He is my mechanical minon. He will also take my shift on watch from now on."

(OOC: Leveled...got a new mechanical minion)

RobC - "How does little Dani - Daniella? We brought things for her."
Monday March 15th, 2021 2:05:02 AM
The party venture through the town much to the delight of the locals. They really are pleased to see you all.

It's the first time that the twins have been here. Lockridge Mansion is nestled atop a hill overlooking the town. From the outside it looks very elegant. Two stories tall and built with white stone bricks, large rectangle windows, and a grey shingled rooftop. The house itself is surrounded by a modest garden. Manicured grass, a few flower patches, a sandbox and a seesaw. The whole place screams "I've got gold".

The party don't even get the chance to knock on the door this time. Mrs Reyna, the young elven housemaid, has been waiting for your return and her face is beaming on seeing you again. "Come in. Come in." she holds the door wide open. She is obviously taken aback by the presence of the twins (and Irony!) though says nothing about it. "I'll just go fetch Mr Page."

She shuts the door and hurriedly climbs the stairs in search of the house steward. It only take a minute before Gideon has heard the news and descends the stairs to meet you. Unlike Mrs Reyna, he maintains perfect composure.

Mundhildur enquires about Daniella to which Gideon politely responds. "Lady Daniella is feeling poorly today and confined to bed rest. Thankyou for your concern"

"Master Lockridge will no doubt be quite pleased that you have returned so quickly. If you would follow me please to the lounge" Gideon walks to the door to right and opens it. As with last time, he steps through first and stands next to it, holding the door open with one hand while gesturing into the room with the other "If you would be so kind". The man is the utmost professional in matters of etiquette.

Unfortunately the Marquis de Lockridge - or Horatio as he has permitted you to address him - is still nowhere to be seen.

The crystal cube that you saw last time is already atop the desk.

Gideon closes the door behind you and locks it - double checking that it's locked this time. He then approaches the cube and touches the top of the cube in certain areas, as if pushing invisible buttons. Once the cube takes on the same gray opaque color you saw last time, Gideon steps back from the desk and stands at attention.

"Master Lockridge. The parties have returned and are present"

"Thankyou Gideon" The familiar voice of Horatio emanates from the the cube. "Please. Tell me. Did you find them? The ingredients?" You can hear the hope in his voice.

Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant, large (Kim) AC 17 Touch 13 FF15 HP 41/41
Monday March 15th, 2021 4:18:21 AM

"Well, sir, Horatio, sir, you will have to be the final judge of that," Mundhildur begins.

She reaches into her bag and pulls out the moss she scraped. "This is from the northern side of the Elder Tree in the Highland Forest." She displays as she describes, and walks closer to the image from the cube so the Marquis can take a closer look. "This patch of moss is soft and brown, this orange one was a little damp, and the green is quite firm and hard. Shall I hand them over to House Steward Gideon Page?" she asks, holding it out in his direction. She looks back over her shoulder at the nobleman's image. "Some tricksters gave us quite a bit of trouble, but we would not be dissuaded."

Honor Bright (Kathy)
Monday March 15th, 2021 3:25:38 PM
"Um...and I think Asimov has the mushrooms," Honor says. She looks uncomfortable, but she doesn't bring up the subject of the berries just yet.

Zeoll the Greensinger | AC16, 23hp | Cayzle
Monday March 15th, 2021 5:31:10 PM

Zeoll does not beat around the bush.

"Moss, yes. Mushrooms, yes. But I'm sorrry, sirr, we failed to find the silverrberrries we sought. We did find these bottles of silverrberrry wine. Maybe they will serrve in substitution."

SteveM - Elron | AC 21, HP 33/36
Monday March 15th, 2021 10:38:37 PM
Elron mentally rehearses his reasons why what they accomplished should be good enough, as if he can argue Dani back to good health if the ingredients are insufficient somehow.

Asimov and Irony | Hugh | AC 15/12/13 HP 37/37 | AC 13/11/12 HP 29/29 Hardness 2
Tuesday March 16th, 2021 12:14:33 AM
Asimov adds, "We scoured the keep top to bottom and as for berries in general all we found was some shrivelled berries that were not really much of anything and definitely weren't silver berries. We did find the wine which was made with silver berries but sadly the wine is not actual berries. If you don't think the wine is good enough then maybe using your library we can find where the winery that produced the wine is and set off for there to see if we can get actual berries. I guess since you have been researching the ingredients sir, you would be the judge of whether the wine is enough and if it isn't then help us find where we need to go to reach the source of the wine and get the berries."

RobC - "Maybe they will serrve in substitution."
Tuesday March 16th, 2021 3:06:59 AM
There is nothing but silence in the room once the party finish delivering their update. It takes a few moments before Horatio speaks again.

"This is... unfortunate. It was only that I thought that this time could have been different. With any luck, we can extract something from the wine to help create a cure. Perhaps they could be used as a straight substitute? Perhaps something in the tannins? It will take time though. I'll need to work quickly." He gets lost in his thoughts for a moment before speaking again.

"Where are my manners. I am ever so grateful for what you have been able to achieve and in such a short amount of time. I have left some compensation for you back at your residence to cover any costs you may have incurred as well as a small thankyou for your efforts."

"Rather that conclude our dealings, I do have a proposition for you if you'd be interested. I have somewhat of a reputation of being able to help people. For that reason many often seek me out for aid. I'm only one man though and can't be everywhere at once. I can only help so many. Would you perhaps be interested in an arrangement where I extend some of the contracts to you for your consideration?"

The Twins (Mitch) HP 38/38 AC 24/12/22 Saves +4 Fort/+3 Ref/+1 Will
Tuesday March 16th, 2021 7:54:55 AM
The Twins keep their peace and just listen and observe for now.

Honor Bright (Kathy)
Tuesday March 16th, 2021 3:50:52 PM
"Thank you, sir," Honor says. "I hope the items we gathered will do the trick. I'll pray for Daniella. And yes, I would be interested in helping people with other problems, if help is needed."

Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant, large (Kim) AC 17 Touch 13 FF15 HP 41/41
Tuesday March 16th, 2021 4:33:48 PM

"Honor is right, Horatio, sir. I have been praying for your daughter, too," Mundhildur adds. "My mother, Kara, taught me to help where I can where help is the right action. And my father, Guðmundur, was known for occasional kindness. If we can reserve the right to say 'yes' or 'no' to any particular request, I am open to listening."

She waits until the rest have had their say, then adds. "But, before we go, sir, though I know your daughter is bedridden today, and needs her rest, would it be well with you if we could visit Dani, briefly? I have a song for her."

SteveM - Elron | AC 21, HP 33/36
Tuesday March 16th, 2021 5:50:23 PM
"These people are like athlete's foot -- they grow on you!" Elron laughs at his own joke, not realizing it may have been offensive. "But seriously, I'd be honored to have a chance to spend more time with this group. If somethin' good comes from it, all th' better."

Zeoll the Greensinger | AC16, 23hp | Cayzle d20+12=31 ;
Wednesday March 17th, 2021 12:27:07 AM

Zeoll bows low and says he is happy that their host can offer direction in finding ways to help others.

Were he as he was in his youth, it would go that far and no further. However, after many years of experience, the old taur no longer trusts the good faith of those with power and motives unknown to him. So privately he is a little cynical, and subtly studies the man.

Sense Motive 31

Asimov and Irony | Hugh | AC 15/12/13 HP 37/37 | AC 13/11/12 HP 29/29 Hardness 2
Wednesday March 17th, 2021 2:04:19 AM
Asimov says, "Sure, I'll help. Irony and I have nothing better to do right now anyway and it is because of being in your employ that I was able to grow enough as a tinkerer to build him."

RobC - "I have nothing better to do right now anyway"
Wednesday March 17th, 2021 8:34:42 PM
Horatio addresses Munhildur's question first. "Thankyou for your concern and offer, however I would prefer Dani rest. I'm told she isn't having a good day. Perhaps when you return next and she is able to take visitors"

Sense Motive DC20 ... Highlight to display spoiler: {You don't sense any deception here. Your gut says he is being honest with you}

The group unanimously agree to take on some of the contracts from Horatio.

"Excellent. Whenever a contract is suitable for you I will send for someone to fetch you from the village. There is one component of the contracts that I would ask. I would like for a small percentage of each contract to be donated back to the town. I see it as a responsibility of the wealthy to take care of those who are not. I have been blessed with all I need so need not take a 'cut', as you might say, from any deals. How much of each contract is invested back into the town is up to you. Uplift the docks, help renovate someone's house, buy everyone in the town a meal at the tavern. The choice will be yours, however the people of this town must benefit from it. Do you agree to that term?"

Assuming the party agree...

"In that case, get some rest and gather what supplies you need. I'm meeting with a potential client tomorrow and may have something for you then"

Honor Bright (Kathy) d20+6=19 ;
Wednesday March 17th, 2021 9:53:10 PM
Honor readily agrees to help the town. "We should talk to people," she says. "Get a sense of what kinds of things they need most."

She heads to their lodgings with the others, still trying to get used to Irony. In the tales, such devices inevitably became possessed by evil spirits and tried to kill people. But those were just tales.

Right?

Zeoll the Greensinger | AC16, 23hp | Cayzle
Wednesday March 17th, 2021 11:07:20 PM

Zeoll bows, convinced that the fellow is forthright.

"Come my allies, let us fall back to sleep and contemplate the night away, and maybe meditate on the quest just we have -- in one sense at least -- completed."

[OOC: Sometimes I get tired of doubling up the Rs, so I just avoid them.]

SteveM - Elron | AC 21, HP 33/36 d20+8=20 ;
Wednesday March 17th, 2021 11:10:50 PM
Sense motive = 20

After they're dismissed and heading to their quarters, Elron asks Munhildur, "Is that a song from your childhood you wanted t' sing? I'm sure she'll like it some other day." Mostly to make conversation. The one tune Elron knows keeps him happy, he expects music makes others feel that way too.

Asimov and Irony | Hugh | AC 15/12/13 HP 37/37 | AC 13/11/12 HP 29/29 Hardness 2
Thursday March 18th, 2021 12:26:28 AM
Asimov says to Honor, "Irony won't hurt anyone well unless they come after me but I can't make Chompy while Irony is in active mode. I can remove a piece from Irony, a very important piece and animate Chompy but then Irony will be even less useful than he is now. As I said he is somewhat of a body guard for me and at least this iteration of him can stand watch all night. Perhaps after I learn a bit more I might change what he can do but for now I can rest and he can remain active."

RobC - "Come my allies, let us fall back to sleep"
Thursday March 18th, 2021 3:33:07 AM
The party take their leave and retire to the townhouse. It's the first time the twins have seen it.

Two stories tall, painted a dark-burgundy color, and with many square windows that look out to the street. The furnishings aren't anywhere near as glamorous as those of the mansion, but they are clearly better than any commoner would have. The bottom level features a kitchen, larder, dining room, lounge and two bedrooms. The upper floor features the other six bedrooms. There is an exit at the rear that leads to a private stable.

Sitting on a table in the middle of the loungeroom is a small rosewood box. Inside is a pile of platinum coins and a note "Compensation for most recent outing."

--------------
OOC: Apologies for two DM posts in a short timeframe. I wanted to give you a chance to do your shopping and get moving again. There is enough platinum/gold to get you to level 4 WBL (6,000gp)

I'd ask that you don't do your shopping on the CC board and instead resolve things among yourselves here (just to keep that board clean).

The Twins (Mitch) HP 38/38 AC 24/12/22 Saves +4 Fort/+3 Ref/+1 Will
Thursday March 18th, 2021 6:13:44 AM
The Twins take great interest in just about everything, looking over the town and muttering to each other. They don't seem to have any interest in the box; they weren't hired for the job and only really followed along with the others, so don't feel like they should be compensated for it.

Honor Bright (Kathy) d20+15=32 ; d20+15=30 ; d20+15=29 ;
Thursday March 18th, 2021 1:00:29 PM
Honor claims a share of the coin and urges the Twins to do the same. "You may not have been hired," she says. "But you'll be going with us on the next job and you should have decent gear if we can afford to get it for you. That will be to everyone's benefit. Besides," she adds, "we took the wine you were after; you deserve some compensation for that."

But Honor is less interested in shopping for gear than she is on talking to the townsfolk. She wants to find out what kinds of things they need; what they'd change about the town if they could. Her goal is to build a "project list" to make it easier to give something back when the group returns from a job.

[Diplomacy rolls: 32, 30, 29]

SteveM - Elron | AC 21, HP 33/36
Thursday March 18th, 2021 10:24:42 PM
Elron will gladly take his share of the money. "Say, I picked up these two weapons -- a frost dagger an' th' double chicken saber. But I ain't too good with stabby things. If any of you want one. . . ?" If no one claims the items, Elron will hang on to one, but he doesn't see the use in having two weapons that don't whap.

=====
I assume if one gets sold, it goes to party treasure. Elron is holding onto the potion of CMW. There were other items that need to find owners or be sold as well that Kathy summarized for us March 10.

Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant, large (Kim) AC 17 Touch 13 FF15 HP 41/41
Friday March 19th, 2021 2:09:16 AM

[catchin' up]

"Very well, father of Daniella. Perhaps in a day or two, if she's feeling up to it. If she needs her full rest now, then, I'm sure you're wise in that regard."

"Helping the dwellers of this town? Yes. It is good to give. They helped us prepare for the tasks you laid before us."

"Frost dagger?" Mundhildur's ears perk up at Elron's offer. "If someone wants this mercy dagger, I'd be pleased to use the frost dagger."

[Will try to do some shopping posting over the weekend.]

RobC - "Yes. It is good to give"
Friday March 19th, 2021 2:21:48 AM
Honor goes for a walk to talk to some of the residents. They're all very happy to speak with her but aren't keen to talk about any problems they may have. She is able to make a few observations of her own though...

- Some of the fishing boats could do with repair. It looks like they're being maintained as best they can with what people could afford, but with more funds they might be properly repaired.
- One older lady would like some help with her garden. She weeds it but it's a never ending battle for her. It would be nice for a little extra help. Perhaps some new flowers or plants as well?

Horatio has provided a lot for the town. There are no real major projects that need funding right now.

The party are free to spend the rest of the day as they choose. Relaxing, getting a bite to eat at the tavern, decorating a bedroom, shopping, or simply taking a walk on the docks.

------------
OOC: As agents of Horatio you are free to uplift any aspects of the town you like. I'll leave it with you all to self-regulate what scale you want to go but as newcomers to the town perhaps you should start small. We'll start the next contract on Monday

Asimov and Irony | Hugh | AC 15/12/13 HP 37/37 | AC 13/11/12 HP 29/29 Hardness 2
Friday March 19th, 2021 3:37:22 AM
(OOC1: I was caught on an after hours work call for 2 hours, messed with my schedule, sorry)
(OOC2: so can we assume that any item we want we can find here if we can't shop at the catacombs?)

Asimov adds the fine knife from scene 1 and the gems and statuettes he valued at 30 gp to the lot of party treasure along with anything he picked up from the keep except for the ring of sustenance, that he had been wearing since he found it.

(OOC3: Is the knife from scene 1 anything special?)
(OOC4: I'll post my shopping order / dibs on any treasure prolly this weekend)

The Twins (Mitch) HP 38/38 AC 24/12/22 Saves +4 Fort/+3 Ref/+1 Will
Friday March 19th, 2021 7:48:27 AM
The Twins will take whatever knife isn't claimed by someone else. They prefer their current weapons but a conceable weapon is always nice.

Honor Bright (Kathy) d20+15=31 ;
Friday March 19th, 2021 3:00:50 PM
Honor approaches Zeoll and tells him about the lady with the garden. "Could you maybe help her get some plants and flowers that would be easy to take care of?" she asks.

She also begins asking around the lady's neighborhood, looking for a kid who wouldn't mind earning a little extra coin by weeding a couple of times a week. [Diplomacy 31]

If she finds a suitable kid, she makes the arrangements and gives the lady a small purse of copper coins to pay for the kid's services.

She decides to save the fishing boats for next time.

RobC - "Yes. It is good to give"
Friday March 19th, 2021 10:12:19 PM
OOC:

@Hugh: In terms of shopping I'd say you can find anything here that you want/need. I believe Cayzle wanted to stick to Wold & Core items only - no splat books - but will leave with him to confirm

The Twins (Mitch) HP 38/38 AC 24/12/22 Saves +4 Fort/+3 Ref/+1 Will
Sunday March 21st, 2021 10:36:02 PM
The Twins go shopping (actually I forgot to do that this weekend XD)

Asimov and Irony | Hugh | AC 15/12/13 HP 37/37 | AC 13/11/12 HP 29/29 Hardness 2
Monday March 22nd, 2021 12:58:54 AM
Asimov buys a light repeating crossbow, bracers of armor + 1 for Irony, and 3 more cases of bolts. He keeps the ring of sustenance for now as he has taken to wearing it.

RobC - "Could you maybe help her get some plants and flowers that would be easy to take care of?"
Monday March 22nd, 2021 2:43:12 AM
The party enjoy a quick timeout knowing that the next morning there will some task or another to do.

It's easy for Honor to find a couple of kids that would be happy to earn a bit of coin. A boy and girl (brother and sister about 10 years old) are quite keen on the offer but want to check with their mother first to make sure it's ok. They run off and are back a short time later with beaming faces, all ready to attack a garden. Honor puts it to Zeoll to consider some plants that might be easy to care for that the lady might enjoy.

Each person (or 'persons' in the case of the twins) is able to take a bedroom of their own. The rooms were only built for medium sized individuals so some of the group may have a hard time of it until some redecorating can be done.

As promised, in the morning comes a knock at the door. "Good morning Sirs. Madams. There is a client ready to speak with you at the mansion. When shall I tell them you will meet with them?" Gideon stands waiting for your answer.

Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant, large (Kim) AC 17 Touch 13 FF15 HP 41/41
Monday March 22nd, 2021 11:36:26 AM
In town, Mundhildur meets with the singing barber. Surely he knows many of the townspeople well. "Barber of Lowestoft, will you trim the ends of my hair? Maybe a finger's width or so, to even things out." As he cuts the tips of her long hair, she asks him, "This is a beautiful town, looks like it's well run, with many good people. And you, Barber of Lowestoft, have a strong singing voice. I like that." She waits as he gets past the halfway point of the task. "My friends and I are wondering. What things might we do to benefit the town? Are there services or needs that might be met? We'd like to chip in to help as we might, but want to do so with wisdom. Perhaps you could speak with folks, and give us a notion of one or more ways we might lend a hand." When he finishes, she pays him what he asks, and doubles it. "The extra is for hearing me out."

She does some shopping...

In the morning, she says, "Hello House Steward Gideon. How does mid-morning sound - two hours before noon?"

Honor Bright (Kathy)
Monday March 22nd, 2021 4:02:02 PM
In the house, Honor has laid claim to one of the upstairs rooms, figuring the downstairs rooms are probably easier for the larger-sized people to manage.

In town, she is pleased with how the lady's garden got resolved, and is sure to leave a small purse to pay the brother and sister for their work.

In the morning, she smiles at Gideon. "I was going to suggest tea-time," she says, "in case people had errands they still need to run. But mid-morning works for me."

Zeoll the Greensinger | AC18, 23hp | Cayzle
Monday March 22nd, 2021 10:14:51 PM

Zeoll is of course very happy to help with the lady's garden.

He also does some shopping as well. He shows off his new gear: +1 leather armor, +1 heavy darkwood shield, +1 cloak of resistance, and scrolls of Summon Nature's Ally (x3), Water Breathing, Heroism, Invisibility, and Cure Moderate Wounds (x3).

[OOC: PC sheet is up to date for gear now. Also, sorry for poor posting last week. Too much going on.]

SteveM - Elron | AC 21, HP 33/36
Monday March 22nd, 2021 11:28:58 PM
Elron is very specific about the weapon he wants, but doesn't have a name for it other than "whappin' stick." Unfortunately, the weaponers around here don't seem to have such a thing in stock. Not any old club will do. When he has time, he'll have to show them exactly what he means.

Meanwhile, he hangs on to the +1 double chicken saber. Mundhildur can have the +1 frost dagger.

Elron spends time looking for just the perfect thing, although he doesn't really know what that is. But he is ready to receive their guest at the time Gideon agrees to.

Asimov and Irony | Hugh | AC 15/12/13 HP 37/37 | AC 13/11/12 HP 29/29 Hardness 2
Tuesday March 23rd, 2021 2:17:55 AM
Asimov says, "Tea-time works. Irony get the teapot. Some day I'm gonna have to get a haversack. I could be better armored if I didn't have to worry about weight"

RobC - "How does mid-morning sound - two hours before noon?"
Tuesday March 23rd, 2021 5:09:22 AM
Munhildur heads off to the barber to give her locks a trim. He hums as he cuts, quite happy with the job he's doing. Every now and then he pauses, take a steps back, and then steps forward to cut that elusive hair that wouldn't conform with the others. "Yes, we're quite lucky here. The Marquis is very generous and has always looked after us" He doesn't have a bad word to say about the town and certainly doesn't want to bother you with any troubles he might have. Though looking around, Munhildur can see that the chairs in this barbershop have seen better days. Perhaps some new furnishings here might be nice? Perhaps some new shears for the barber himself? All these small little improvements are everywhere that she looks. No 'big' projects stand out yet, but those small favors and good deeds are all about.

There is a little confusion at the house (both by Gideon and the DM!) but the group seem to decide on mid-morning as the time to meet their potential client. Gideon smiles and gives a polite nod "I'll convey the message immediately. Good day". He sets off back up the hill towards the mansion.

The party have a couple of hours before their meeting.

---------
OOC: You can keep doing your shopping and updating your sheets. I'm just trying to get this moving to hand the DMing duties back to you

Honor Bright (Kathy)
Tuesday March 23rd, 2021 2:47:58 PM
"Asimov, I could carry some stuff for you," Honor says. "I mean, not stuff you might need in a fight, but maybe stuff for camping? I can carry another 30 pounds or so before it becomes a problem."

Zeoll the Greensinger | AC18, 23hp | Cayzle
Tuesday March 23rd, 2021 3:38:13 PM

With a couple of hours to kill, Zeoll does what he can to find out how the local lord's daughter is doing, and if the ingredients the party gathered will suffice to help her.

Then he arrives in time for the meeting.

SteveM - Elron | AC 21, HP 33/36
Tuesday March 23rd, 2021 11:25:04 PM
Elron shops*. He thinks a nice portable shelter, maybe. The shopkeeper has to explain that, big as it is, a bag of holding is not a suitable tent. (But only once.)

-----
* But it will be a couple of days before I find time to update him.

The Twins (Mitch) HP 38/38 AC 24/12/22 Saves +4 Fort/+3 Ref/+1 Will
Tuesday March 23rd, 2021 11:27:46 PM
The Twins find something interesting to do to spend the time.

Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant, large (Kim) AC 17 Touch 13 FF15 HP 41/41
Wednesday March 24th, 2021 1:32:48 AM

After leaving the barber, Mundhi goes to the blacksmith, and has words of praise for the barber. "I'd like to thank him for his skill and care. Do you suppose you might forge him a couple of pairs of nice, new shears? One set larger, and one set smaller for trimming the hard-to-get-to places?" If the smith does not deem himself the one for the job, she asks who might be, and goes to them with the same request. "When they are done, wrap them up nicely, and put a note on saying, "As thanks for work well done, and offered with song. --From the tall maiden"

If by chance Dani is feeling better, and it be allowed, she does want to peek in on her, and sing a little song about the dance of butterflies which her beautiful aunt used to sing to her as a girl. She won't stay long so as not to tire her. If Honor wants to come along, too, Mundhildur would be delighted.

RobC - "I'd like to thank him for his skill and care"
Wednesday March 24th, 2021 2:53:15 AM
Honor sets to work performing some good deeds. First up will be the barber. He will surely be happy with the surprise.

As the time of the meeting approaches the party make their way up the hill to Lockridge Mansion. Mrs Reyna opens the front door and gestures towards the right to the lounge area you know well. Through the doorway to the left though you can see Dani sitting in a wheelchair by the window and painting a picture of the bay on a small canvas. She hasn't seen you.

The door to the lounge opens and you can see Gideon standing there, he gestures towards the comfortable leather couches inviting you to sit down.

There's no sign of the magical cube this time but there IS a stranger standing next to the desk.

He has short, wavy, white hair and currently wears a set of clouded goggles. He's slender like an elf and has their distinctive pointed ears, though he does have soft black skin. By his side hangs a rapier and handcrossbow. You've all been around the Wold long enough to know the difference between a surface-drow and a true drow. This guy is most certainly the latter.

His hands are clenched in front of him and he smiles on seeing you all.

Gideon closes the door behind you, and then does the introductions. "May I present Master Zulok Crudiseh, representative of House Dul'g". Zulok gives a very slight bow as he is introduced.

Asimov and Irony | Hugh | AC 17/12/15 HP 37/37 | AC 13/11/12 HP 29/29 Hardness 2
Wednesday March 24th, 2021 3:13:03 AM
Asimov purchases masterwork thieve's tools and a chain shirt, selling his leather armor and normal thieve's tools.

He gives Honor his bedroll, trail ration, waterskin and to hold and changes into his chain shirt.

(OOC: forgot that carrying capacity changes with strength increase but I still need honor to hold some things to keep mobility up in combat)

He checks out his light repeating crossbow, enjoying the complexity of the mechanisms involved.

Honor Bright (Kathy)
Wednesday March 24th, 2021 4:17:16 PM
Honor recognizes that the man they're meeting with is a drow, and instantly she is on alert. They are evil creatures. Perhaps they cannot help it, but they are evil nonetheless, and not to be trusted.

She looks at him intently, using her Detect Evil ability to confirm what she's already pretty sure about.

Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant, large (Kim) AC 17 Touch 13 FF15 HP 41/41
Wednesday March 24th, 2021 4:18:34 PM

"Greetings, Master Zulok Crudiseh, of House Dulg," Mundhi says, then pauses. "I'm sorry, is it House Dulug? Can you say that again? I am not yet knowledgeable of your people's tongue, Master Zulok, and I think there was something my ear did not quite catch." Then she adds, standing perhaps an inch or two taller, "Oh, and I am Mundhildur Karadottir, of Clan Stormur og Sky og Vindur Morguns, of the Jotunnar."

SteveM - Elron | AC 21, HP 33/36
Wednesday March 24th, 2021 9:10:38 PM
Elron advances on the drow to shake his hand. "Well, Master Zulok, what can we do for you? That is, I say, that is what we're here for -- to see if we can help you with a problem."

Zeoll the Greensinger | AC18, 23hp | Cayzle
Wednesday March 24th, 2021 11:15:23 PM
Zeoll shakes the drow's hand and complements him on his soft skin. The liontaur does not join his friends on a couch, but sits, sphinx-style, next to them.

RobC - "Well, Master Zulok, what can we do for you?"
Thursday March 25th, 2021 2:43:11 AM
Zulok grins slightly as Honor tries to detect for signs of evil. "You know, some people might be insulted by such an action". He is smiling now and obviously not offended. Honor doesn't see any evil aura to him.

Zulok gives a nod as the others shake his hand or offer greetings. "It's House D'gul, actually" He gives a glance to Gideon.

Highlight to display spoiler: {Actually, I'd mistakenly swapped D'gul and Dul'g back and forth in the writeup! D'gul sounds better I think so we're going with that}

"To business then" He remains standing "We have a situation where we could use the assistance of some outsiders. That is to say, people not of my kin. We have tried reaching out to other mercenary or adventuring groups however they don't seem to want anything to do with us. Master Lockridge has a reputation for being able to find help where others could not, so we reached out to him and here you are."

He starts pacing in front of the desk.

"House D'gul has been digging through some remains in the Scab to retrieve the bodies of those who fell long ago. In one of the digs we have discovered what we believe to be an entrance to a temple of sorts. We can recognize some of the external artwork as drow, however we're unable to determine to which deity it might be for. Whatever the case, we expect there to be some objects of great historical and cultural significance to us inside it. I've been sent to find help to retrieve them."

Asimov and Irony | Hugh | AC 17/12/15 HP 37/37 | AC 13/11/12 HP 29/29 Hardness 2
Thursday March 25th, 2021 5:58:05 AM
Asimov says, " Well met Zulok."

"I'm assuming there are dangers lurking in this temple considering you are seeking adventurers to help retrieve your historically and culturally significant items? I don't suppose you have any specifics so we know what to possibly prepare for?"

The Twins (Mitch) HP 38/38 AC 24/12/22 Saves +4 Fort/+3 Ref/+1 Will
Thursday March 25th, 2021 8:18:19 AM
The Twins show great interest. "We'd love to help." "Culture and artifacts are of great interest to us." They look at the rest of the group to see how they feel on the matter.

Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant, large (Kim) AC 17 Touch 13 FF15 HP 41/41
Thursday March 25th, 2021 1:00:51 PM

"If you can teach me your people's tongue along the way, then, yes, I am willing to go," Mundhildur says. "How far off is this place in the Scab from here?"

Zeoll the Greensinger | AC18, 23hp | Cayzle
Thursday March 25th, 2021 5:03:18 PM

Zeoll grins when he hears of the mission. "As a forrmerr memberr of the Sage's Guild, I am cerrtainly pleased to rrecoverr lost lorre."

"But as a currrent adventurrerr, I must ask, if we arre not to keep what we find, how arre we to be ... rremunerrated?"

Honor Bright (Kathy)
Thursday March 25th, 2021 6:08:04 PM
Honor remains skeptical. "If we do find items of historical and cultural significance," she says, "what will your people do with them?"

SteveM - Elron | AC 21, HP 33/36
Thursday March 25th, 2021 11:40:49 PM
Elron considers. "If you don't mind my askin', wouldn't th' temple be friendlier to your folks than to outsiders? Seein' how it was once your temple, an' all."

Of course, Elron's not really thinking about saying no to the request. Not after Master Lockridge checked it out first. But they ought to know all they can learn before going to such a place.

RobC - "We'd love to help."
Friday March 26th, 2021 3:04:15 AM
Zulok doesn't have any objections to trying to teach Munhildur a few drow words, though explains it is a complicated language.
Highlight to display spoiler: {In the UC book it says that it takes 20days to learn a new language. In Core you need to use a skill point. Up to everyone here what works}

Asimov and Elron have some concerns over what the dangers might be.

"Well that's where things are a little murky. We can't get in the door so we're not sure what's inside. The markings around the door suggest a temple but we can't be sure"

Zeoll and Honor are curious about the material components though

"Anything of significance to our history will be studied and put on display within the House D'gul holdings. I've been authorized to tell you that if you happen upon items that aren't of significance to us then they are yours to keep as payment for your service" He looks more directly to Honor "As you'll be the ones investigating this temple you'll have first view on what's there. I trust that you will fairly determine which items are of significance and which ones are not."

"It is a little hypothetical though. We don't know what's inside. It could just be cobwebs and rocks."

Honor's concerns aside it sounds like the rest of the group are in agreement.

"This is good news. I'm ready to leave when you are."

Asimov is quite well versed in Wold geography. With the Scab to the west it should take about 8 days overland travel to reach the border

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Highlight to display spoiler: {Tap games are given some leeway as to distances and places in the Wold, so let's just wave the DM wand and say this town is somewhere in the east.}

Asimov and Irony | Hugh | AC 17/12/15 HP 37/37 | AC 13/11/12 HP 29/29 Hardness 2
Friday March 26th, 2021 8:43:48 AM
Asimov says to Irony, "Let's field test you in a sealed drow Temple and see how you work. I think you'll be a step up from chompy, though perhaps I'll run some other experiments on windup toys in the future."

To the rest of the party he says, "We got about an eight days journey ahead of us."

He asks Zulok, "That is fascinating about the Drow language. I'm a bit of a polyglot myself. Don't the drow also speak undercommon?"

Honor Bright (Kathy)
Friday March 26th, 2021 10:15:32 PM
Privately, Honor vows not to turn over anything that detects as evil, cultural significance or no. Aloud, she only says, "I am ready to go as well."

SteveM - Elron | AC 21, HP 33/36
Friday March 26th, 2021 10:59:42 PM
"Master Zulok, there's still the question of how we will know what you think is cult'rally significant. You might have some explainin' to do while we travel." Elron isn't sure if leaving in the afternoon is best, or waiting until morning.

The Twins (Mitch) HP 38/38 AC 24/12/22 Saves +4 Fort/+3 Ref/+1 Will
Sunday March 28th, 2021 8:47:23 PM
The Twin shrug. They're willing to go just to learn more about the area and the culture.

Return To Index Next Module (To the Scab and Drow Digs)