Just outside town (DM Cayzle) Thursday May 27th, 2021 11:37:34 PM
The sun shines hot. The brisk sirocco heats by conduction as much as it cools by evaporation. THe grasses wave as the ship floats onwards. Sometimes the grasses rustle in ways that suggest creatures deep at the roots, but unseen by you.
Haemir spends his ship time keeping an eye on things and teaching sailing skills. It is a happy time of travel, and Fand playfully echoes the mood.
'Lil is also content to enjoy the trip without any drama. She ponders taking a break from adventuring.
Sol takes notes, a true scholar at heart.
Thorondir enjoys the journey as well, being at one with nature.
Rurik, unlike his placid comrades, does not neglect the dangers of the Plains! He knows that this harsh land is not one that most people can survive. He is excited to meet the challenge, but he is wise in his caution.
However, on this journey, at least, no danger materializes. And after your travels are complete, you find yourselves returned at last to Rattledam.
First and foremost, you discover that changes have been made to the town. The grass has been cut back from the limits of the town, and a border of fire resistant grasses has been planted around it. This border is a distinctive red color, and shorter than the native grasses outside of it. You won't be able to bring the ship right up to the town, with this 1,000-ft swathe of lawn between you and it.
You do see that there has definitely been new construction. In fact, you see someone atop a watch tower jumping up and down. There seems to be a lot of activity taking place, actually, more as time goes on.
Rurik Ironjaw (Robert) | AC 19 | CMD 19 | 48/48 HP | Friday May 28th, 2021 8:41:19 PM
Rurik steps out of his room, dressed for battle and ready as always. He looks around curiously at the town, noting the various defenses and wondering at the dangers they ward against.
Haemir (Rich) AC:13 - HP:41/41 - CMD:15 | Fand: AC:23/27 - HP:49/49 - CMD:24 Saturday May 29th, 2021 4:37:29 AM
Haemir steps up beside Rurik and equally studies the changes. Would be handy if they could shrink the Maiden he thinks.
Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP:36/36 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 - CMD:15 Active Spells: Mage Armour Sunday May 30th, 2021 3:18:10 AM
Sol waves to the person in the watchtower a big smile on his face, as he stands alongside Haemir and Rurik.
He looks over the new construction and frowns for a moment before continuing to wave in greeting as they approach.
Just outside town (DM Cayzle) Sunday May 30th, 2021 8:34:21 AM
the watcher on the tower waves back ... and seems to motion to the right.
at this point you have a few choices. weigh anchor and walk in across the 'lawn' ... move the ship to the right ... but how far ... carry/drag the ship across the lawn to the town ...
but for sure you want to enter new rattledam ... and keep your druidwood vessel safe. options ...
Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 39/39 -- Aewen: AC 14 -- HP 16/16 d20+9=14 ; d20+10=11 ; Sunday May 30th, 2021 2:29:39 PM "So Haemir, should we weigh anchor here? I can trim the grasses around the Maiden so she can't be snuck up on easily."
Assuming Haemir doesn't object, Thorondir casts "Diminish Plants", forming a 150 foot semicircle with the landscaped area of the town on the other side. He leaves the grasses full height beneath the Maiden, keeping her high off the ground.
Thorondir feeds some worms to Talpid and asks him to keep watch over the ship. He leaps over the side and Aewen flies nearby.
"Should we go and see how things are? I've never been here before."
Perception Thorondir 14 Perception Aewen 11
Haemir (Rich) AC:13 - HP:41/41 - CMD:15 | Fand: AC:23/27 - HP:49/49 - CMD:24 Sunday May 30th, 2021 5:12:55 PM
Unfortunately he looks too far away for any magic shenanigans, so Haemir concludes the man can hardly be waving us to a docks. He's happy to wait if someone has a better idea (or if air scouts provide more info) otherwise he's down with Thorondir's idea and gives the druid a cheeky grin and thumbs up.
Akuno Neko (Ken) AC 22 / CMD 17 - 32/32 Hp Monday May 31st, 2021 7:56:57 PM
Akuno snaps out of whatever reverie she's been in.
"The tower watchers seem nice! It will be good to be in a place that's secure without relying on us."
Rurik Ironjaw (Robert) | AC 19 | CMD 19 | 48/48 HP | Tuesday June 1st, 2021 12:16:39 AM
Rurik climbs down from the ship, enjoying the feeling of being back on solid ground once more. "Come, let us see how these colonists have fared!"
Just outside town (DM Cayzle) Tuesday June 1st, 2021 6:37:25 AM
Thorondir suggests using a Diminish Plants spell to isolate the ship, leaving her in a form of "dry dock."
Haemir's got nothing better, and encourages his friend. "The man can hardly be waving us to a docks."
Akuno notes the town's defenses approvingly.
Rurik is eager to approach, and hops down to the lawn.
The spell is cast, isolating the druidwood vessel. Leaving the crew and Talpid to watch the ship, you all set out across the lawn towards the town. When you get within earshot range, you can hear the guard on the watchtower. You can see that the tower is more of a platform gently swaying on four long legs made of some kind of lashed strong grass, like bamboo.
You hear the guard call down. "Hello travellers! Didn't you see me waving? I was directing you to the docks."
Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 39/39 -- Aewen: AC 14 -- HP 16/16 Tuesday June 1st, 2021 11:42:51 AM
“Dock, I thought we had the only ship on the Sargrass?”
Thorondir is a bit confused.
Haemir (Rich) AC:13 - HP:41/41 - CMD:15 | Fand: AC:23/27 - HP:49/49 - CMD:24 d20+9=25 ; Tuesday June 1st, 2021 3:33:17 PM
Haemir freezes mid step and spins slowly like a weathervane, before striding away in the opposite direction (Acrobatics:25) - yeah back towards the ship. "My bad. Looks like I'm buying the first round" He says grinning.
He thinks: 'Well we left The Stone Temple a month ago, plus they had three years and other ships are being made', but as he 'brains' some other part of him speaks: "T'be honest I'm just glad New Rattledam's still here. This is new to all of us"!
Akuno Neko (Ken) AC 22 / CMD 17 - 32/32 Hp Tuesday June 1st, 2021 4:57:44 PM
She doesn't want him to walk along, so Akuno tags along behind Haemir. She elbows the silent 'Lil, and offers a smile. "I'll be right back, don't miss me too much!" (Man, I'm gonna miss Carl.)
Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP:36/36 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 - CMD:15 Active Spells: Mage Armour Tuesday June 1st, 2021 5:31:47 PM
Sol smiles as they head towards the docks, taking a deep breath to help take in the smells of the city, such as it is.
"It is good to be back. It has been far too long since we were here. It will be interesting to see how it has changed in our absence."
He pats Haemir on the back.
"I certainly would not say not to a free drink... as long as it is not that stuff we had before, I feel that was somewhat too potent for my delicate constitution."
Herbert Bramblerose (Bill Soucy) Tuesday June 1st, 2021 10:31:21 PM Hey! Wait for me! I was napping and missed some stuff. Herbert runs down, little furry feet scurrying in a flurry as he tries to catch up. Wow! This is soooo neat!
Welcome back to New Rattledam! (DM Cayzle) Tuesday June 1st, 2021 11:55:16 PM
The guard up on the bamboo tower calls down, "Go right on in! I already sent word that you've arrived."
You walk past the tower into New Rattledam proper. There is a curving wall that surrounds the town. The height varies, and from the angle, you can tell that this is the base of what will be the new woven dome. For now, though, it is more like a wall, varying from 5 to 20 feet high. And there is an obvious gate.
At the gate, there are more guards, and one asks your names and purposes. But before you can answer, another one shouts, "HEY! What are you doing! These are friends! They came with us to get here!"
Sure enough, this is a colonist you recognize, though the name escapes you. A guard back then, and still a guard, you see. You vaguely remember his name as ... Jamjay? Jaymesy? Something like that.
He rushes to open the gate and let you in, and soon all the guards are welcoming you warmly.
The guards are eager to lead you to the town council, a ruling body that has been formalized since you went away. Jaemsie is eager to talk, too. "So much has been going on!" he says.
Do you ... head off on your own toward the docks, wherever they are? Grab your old acquaintence for a sit down and a chat? Head off right away to the council? Something else?
Akuno Neko (Ken) AC 22 / CMD 17 - 32/32 Hp Wednesday June 2nd, 2021 10:20:19 AM
Akunos not the one to make the calls here. She's not even been to this place. It was 'Lils strong insistence to come here after all.
She's willing to take either Sol or Haemirs leads here, as they are the longest established members of the sentinels.
Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 39/39 -- Aewen: AC 14 -- HP 16/16 Wednesday June 2nd, 2021 2:32:21 PM "I can grow the grass back tomorrow and we can move the ship to the dock. I guess we should have gone and talked to the gate keeper first. I'm not usually so hasty, at least I try not to be."
Thorondir is a bit chagrined after stranding the ship instead of having it taken to the dock.
Aewen flies above him, and calls to him. Apparently, she saw the dock but didn't realize what it was and that we should go there.
"Aewen reminds me I should join her more often, from her view up high she can clearly see the dock. Anyway, I have also never been here. Haemir or Sol, what should we do?"
Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP:36/36 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 - CMD:15 Active Spells: Mage Armour Wednesday June 2nd, 2021 5:11:10 PM
Sol, realising quickly he's one of the few that is still in the same state as when they left Rattledam (albeit a little older) looks over his compatriots.
"I feel we should meet with council first... we will have time for pleasantries later." He says this last bit more to the guard who's name he doesn't remember than his allies.
"Follow me, I will do..." it was clear he meant to say 'the talking' but pauses for a moment. "... my best to communicate with the councillors..." He hoped that by declaring himself thusly he wasn't biting off more than he could chew...
Rurik Ironjaw (Robert) | AC 19 | CMD 19 | 48/48 HP | Wednesday June 2nd, 2021 6:59:33 PM
Rurik nods. "Very well, it seems that I am not alone in my unfamiliarity of this settlement, and your experience is most welcome. Lead on, noble mage."
Following Sol's lead, he heads into town, examining the defenses to see what information he can glean from them, though his specialty lies more in front line combat than engineering and battlefield tactics.
(OOC I'm not sure what I should roll for that)
Herbert Bramblerose (Bill Soucy) Wednesday June 2nd, 2021 10:52:24 PM "I think that is a grand idea, Sol. I'm all for communication with the powers that be." Herbert falls into double step to keep up with Sol. Herbert is trying to maintain a stoic expression on his Ursine face, but his eyes grow wide with wonder and give him away. "Akuno, isn't this neat?" Herbert whispers under his breath.
Welcome back to New Rattledam! (DM Cayzle) Wednesday June 2nd, 2021 11:17:05 PM
As you walk through town, you see that the buildings are frames of stronger grasses, the bamboo-like plants that have some strength, and that the walls and roofs are woven mats. The streets are "paved" with a short strong lawn of another breed of grasses.
There does seem to be a new town hall, which doubles as an indoor market by the evidence of your eyes. You find only one of the members of the town council in residence, as it turns out, but he is an old friend.
The Climber, Needle, is so happy to see you! "So well met indeed are we! Amazing! So wonderful!"
He talks to each of you who have known him in the past, and asks for introductions to those he does not know.
"A great feast must have we!" he declares, and sets into motion a great tp-do of preparations. He leads you to a small house, evidently set aside for guests and visiting travelers, and soon enough it is twilight. The town hall has been transformed into a great feasting den!
Grass-based delicacies abound at the feast, and dishes made from creatures of the Sargrass that the party has not encountered before but that are delicious. There is also a grass-based wine that is quite acceptable once the party gets used to it.
Needle and the rest of the council are in attendance. They ask you to stand and tell your stories about what you have done since you were last here. It is clear that they hope each of you will give a tale.
Haemir (Rich) AC:13 - HP:41/41 - CMD:15 | Fand: AC:23/27 - HP:49/49 - CMD:24 Thursday June 3rd, 2021 12:37:16 PM
"Tis good to see you all again! Although my face has changed - I am Haemir, I had paler skin n' blue hair last time... It seems The Sargrass has plans for me. You remember Sol of course? Our noble, knowledgeable wizard. The new faces are Akuno Neko a Catfolk sorcerer of royal lineage, Herbert Bramblerose, a black-bear Beastfolk. The dwarf is Rurik Ironjaw a Paladin of Domi n' last, but by no means least the quickling-scourge, Thorondir, a druid tasked to try n' keep us out of trouble. 'Lil n' Caelwyn will hopefully catch up later, they're still on the Maiden at present"! (OOC - both being missed!).
Haemir doesn't speak about the Rhemorhaz (as he's told that story once already).
"We managed to find some druidwood, organised a build n' found documents to help build her. We also gave her a test run, locating n' setting up relations with Zaran City".
Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 39/39 -- Aewen: AC 14 -- HP 16/16 Thursday June 3rd, 2021 3:12:31 PM "I am merely a guardian of the Maiden and those who sail her. The quicklings committed suicide by attacking my charges. I merely set the stage and allowed them the freedom to choose. The word should spread that I set deadly traps for those who mean to attack the ship. Even now it is warded. Four quicklings died in seconds when they attacked, so please spread the word that coming upon the ship without invitation will likely be fatal. I take my charge to protect the ship and crew seriously. Of course, we would like to invite the council to see the ship. I will make sure they are safe when they visit. Anyway, I am Thorondir, a humble servant."
Thorondir bows to emphasize his humble nature.
Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP:36/36 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 - CMD:15 Active Spells: Mage Armour Thursday June 3rd, 2021 6:20:23 PM
Sol smiles at the crowd, and speaks clearly, without fear.
"I am not one for giving speeches, and not one for bragging, so let me simply say, we did what we had set out to do. It would not have been possible without the frankly heroic efforts of my friends and allies. I am proud to count myself amongst them."
He doesn't wish to add any more as he clearly feels it would be self aggrandising.
Rurik Ironjaw (Robert) | AC 19 | CMD 19 | 48/48 HP | Thursday June 3rd, 2021 10:31:46 PM
Rurik nods his head respectfully at the council member.
"I fear I have no grand tales to tell, unless you fancy listening to stories of fighting goblins in the caverns or helping odd passerby. I look forward to changing that and adding many a triumphant victory to my belt."
Haemir (Rich) AC:13 - HP:41/41 - CMD:15 | Fand: AC:23/27 - HP:49/49 - CMD:24 Friday June 4th, 2021 3:35:45 AM
Since the Rhemorhaz story looked like it had be bypassed he adds.. "Oh yeah we took down a Rhemorhaz too".
As an after thought he adds: "The Maiden has some cargo hold for trade too". He will list some of it but it was generally things his coven member told him NR needed through their cauldrons.
Welcome back to New Rattledam! (DM Cayzle) Friday June 4th, 2021 6:31:49 AM
Needle is the heart of hospitality, and the other Council Members nod when he urges all of your people, crew and missing heroes, to come and relax. "A haven here set up have we, a dangerous land's harbor, so stay a while in the days to come you please must. Some 'shore leave,' to say, will enjoy all your folk."
Haemir and Sol recognize one more of the Council, the elf harvester named Freakshow. Somehow he has found room for a few more tats!
The leader of the council, one of the original colonists who you might vaguely recall, is Mayor Shikfast, a tanned blonde human woman in her early middle age, with two teenage kids. She welcomes you and, towards the end of the feast, has a present. She presents you with a sail for your ship, woven of multicolored grass to display a stylized bird, which the townsfolk call a dove.
[OOC: This beautiful nonmagical sail grants anyone acting on official ship business a +4 on Diplomacy checks interacting with a Rattledammer. It has Hardness 10 and 100 hp.]
"For our good friends, we offer this sail for your ship, so that we will know you from far off, and rejoice!"
[OOC: Please take a few days, at least, to relax and rest here in town.]
Haemir (Rich) AC:13 - HP:41/41 - CMD:15 | Fand: AC:23/27 - HP:49/49 - CMD:24 d20+16=17 ; d100=10 ; Friday June 4th, 2021 9:40:07 AM
Haemir marvels at the sail and thanks the council!
"Ah to be back again"! Happy to show anyone new around and introduce them to people and/or weaving, explaining to Herbert and Rurik: "Everything from huts to walls are woven with grasses here, like reeds or bamboo, different grasses work in different ways" ... He takes time during the stroll around to examine every foot of the town, seeing how things have progressed and what weaving techniques were used. If he sees a particular weave pattern he wasn't aware of he asks around and learns more if he can. He's appreciates everyone may not wanna see every inch but figures a soldier always like to check their camp (in Ruriks case).
Happy to leave trading to any who enjoy it. If no one does though he speaks with traders and offers the cargo from Zaran (Diplomacy:17). Although it probably becomes apparent that Haemir isn't trying to fleece anyone, quite the opposite - he could probably have pushed for much more money, it's just this is home and he's all about helping it grow, (plus he rolled a one on his trading/diplomacy roll - maybe he's a new at bartering? Using WG house rules as a template 10% business is extremely slow and he looses 20% of money invested). He's not in it for the money though.
Later, somewhere quiet he meets with his coven member Arbath a 6' 5, wiry/slim man in his 30's, a skilled craftsman who met Haemir on the boat (when they left Hook city) and settled in New Rattledam. They chat in person and catch up and also contact the coven through their cauldrons - in particular Stardust (the Manfri member). As far as Haemir is concerned the Manfri wanted time to see how the Sentinels did before they confirmed letting them in more. Well three years, a boat, quite few things had changed, including the Sentinels members. It was becoming apparent New Rattledam needed the steel weaving. Only so much could be done and that hadn't been sorted yet.
Whilst here Haemir's happy to help weave buildings, the wall, or anything he can. The one thing about him is he isn't afraid of chipping in, helping and doing simple everyday manual labour of grunt work. He never sees himself above anyone else. In fact the party may need accommodation so he will work day and night to weave a place (using as many of his unseen servants as he can).
Haemir (Rich) AC:13 - HP:47/47 - CMD:15 | Fand: AC:23/27 - HP:49/49 - CMD:24 Friday June 4th, 2021 10:16:25 AM
"Sol would you mind identifying the potion we found at some point please"?
(OOC: all we know is It's a restorative potion worth 4,000 gp - possibly from the Quicklings?!)
Rurik Ironjaw (Robert) | AC 19 | CMD 19 | 48/48 HP | Friday June 4th, 2021 5:56:59 PM
Rurik listens thoughtfully to the descriptions of the various locations, and is happy to meet these hardy folk, pleasantly greeting al of them and engaging in small talk politely. Once the tour ends, he wanders about the town, helping where he can. His oath and his conscience refuse to let him simply lie about for these few days, and so he does the best he can to make the city better, whether that is using his limited healing abilities to restore those who have been hurt or using his strength to great advantage, it makes no matter to him as long as the world is bettered for it. This place reminds him of his home in a way, where the people are stout and sturdy, and work together to overcome the challenges of the lands.
Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 39/39 -- Aewen: AC 14 -- HP 16/16 d20+10=18 ; d20+10=13 ; Friday June 4th, 2021 6:03:20 PM
Thorondir rests the night and prepares some spells for the next day. Calling Aewen down to him in the morning he spends some time preening her feathers and talking softly to her. "I have a busy day Aewen, I was a bit hasty the other day and stranded the ship away from the dock. I'll need to go fix that first and then we will see what good we can do."
Thorondir walks to the ship while Aewen flies above. Climbing aboard, he calls out to the crew. "It seems we have docked in the wrong spot. I'll regrow these grasses and I'll need you to sail the ship to the town's dock. Aewen there will guide you, just follow her."
Thorondir will then either dismiss the Diminish plant spell (which I can't see that he can) or cast Plant Growth in the affected area. Once the grasses are back, Thorondir calls out to the crew. "Sail away, when we get to the dock Haemir has a new sail for our Maiden. She will be well received in the future, as it bears the figure of a dove. I think once the ship is in dock and the sail is in place, there will be time to enjoy the town. The Maiden should be well guarded in dock."
While they are under way, Thorondir checks on his mole friend Talpid. Making sure he still has plenty of worms to eat. He also checks the health of the whortle berry bush, giving it a bit of water once they are in dock.
With the ship safely in dock, and the new sail raised, Thorondir is off to check on the town. He wildshapes into an eagle and flies in circles above the town with Aewen at his side. "We are looking for crops and domestic animals. Tell me if you see any." Perception Thorondir 18 Perception Aewen 13
Once the cultivated areas (if any) are found, Thorondir will cast Plant Growth to increase the yield of the plants: Enrichment: This effect targets plants within a range of a half-mile, raising their potential productivity over the course of the next year to one-third above normal.
If domestic animals are found, he will land and turn back into his elven form. He will cast Speak with Animals and ask them how they are faring, and if they need anything. If necessary, he will cast Charm Animal in order to have a friendly chat.
Herbert Bramblerose (Bill Soucy) Friday June 4th, 2021 11:12:59 PM
Herbert asks the members of the Council if there are any others of his kind here. "While we are here, I am happy to work to earn my keep; I'm a good protector, and am skilled at helping those who cannot help themselves. I am at your service." Herbert sys with a deep formal bow.
Welcome back to New Rattledam! (DM Cayzle) Friday June 4th, 2021 11:52:26 PM
Over the next few days, the heroes find ways to keep busy. Caelwyn and 'Lil both decide to settle down here for a while, at least. Sometimes one needs a break from adventuring.
Haemir offloads the party trade goods for a song, and earns some goodwill, if not a profit. He also helps out around town, and learns that there is some dispute about the wall around New Rattledam. Some people think a wall is enough, and that a dome would collapse. Others want a true dome for protection from the elements and bugs and such.
Rurik finds much to admire in the industriousness of the Rattledammers. And his healing talents are very much appreciated. He also finds a number of unique quirks. The accent and words are odd -- his healing is "shady," meaning good, and the people use a lot of weaving metaphors he doesn't quite get. But everybody is very welcoming.
Thorondir helps brings the Maiden around the town to the "dock" -- which is just a swath of uncut grass that the ship can sail right up to the city wall. There is a second gatehouse on this side, even more heavily watched than the other one. Later, he finds flower and vegetable gardens in the town proper, and blesses them, and also the healthy pigs and happy chickens kept in town, so different than the flora outside. He sees that teams of hunters and grass harvesters leave the town every day to carefully take the bounty of the land.
Herbert approaches the town council directly, and is warmly received. In fact, the Mayor asks Herbert to gather his friends and to meet tomorrow evening in the town hall. The council would like to chat with you all.
To open the meeting, the Mayor gives a little speech about how much has been achieved, and how she has trouble sleeping at night thinking about how the town's defenses are lacking. She asks you heroes, "What do you think we can do to make the town safer, more defensible?"
She looks to you all for advice.
Haemir (Rich) AC:13 - HP:47/47 - CMD:15 | Fand: AC:23/27 - HP:49/49 - CMD:24 d20+9=29 ; Saturday June 5th, 2021 12:05:50 PM
Haemir watches Lil & Caelwyn walk away in silence - clearly it hits him.
Later on the way to the meeting he falls in beside Thorondir, softly nudging him and conspiratorially smirking: "Loved the speech about traps" followed by an elven-high-five.
At the meeting he's quiet as settlement defenses had never been a high priority for someone always on the move. "What's the population here now"?
"Down to me - I would go try to persuade the Manfri to teach me how to weave steel-grass n' make a lightweight steel dome over Rattledam - like it used to be I believe"? But then he would be the first to admit it didn't work for the Old Rattledam, so it's not a subject he has a decision either way on and listens to everyone's ideas and suggestions. He does wrack his own brain for anything. ---
(Knowledge Engineering:29)
Akuno Neko (Ken) AC 22 / CMD 17 - 32/32 Hp Saturday June 5th, 2021 2:06:24 PM
Akuno seems torn. She stands next to Haemir, and reaches up to put a small hand in the middle of his back. "It's like that sometimes." She looks at the ship with Haemir, Thorondir, Herbet, and all the others.
She takes a tiny step towards 'Lil. "I think... I think I don't want 'Lil to be alone. Caelwyn isn't really great company." She casts her usual Floating Disk, but rather than use it as a pillowed palanquin, she instead climbs atop it and gives Haemir a kiss on the cheek.
She climbs back down and dismisses the spell, then adjusts the straps on her backpack. Its a rare thing, for her to carry her own load. Perhaps that's something the party taught her?
"So long you guys, and thanks for all the fish!" With that, she turns and trudges on after 'Lil, her first and best friend in the grass.
Haemir (Rich) AC:13 - HP:47/47 - CMD:15 | Fand: AC:23/27 - HP:49/49 - CMD:24 Saturday June 5th, 2021 11:38:18 PM
Haemir hugs the little princess and strokes her then watches her depart - another blow. It felt like the wold was falling apart. "Akuno, I hope you find what you seek"! He says, but doesn't know what else to say. He watches her till she's out of view and then just watches the empty space for a while. Silently.
Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 39/39 -- Aewen: AC 14 -- HP 16/16 Sunday June 6th, 2021 2:34:20 PM
Thorondir is a bit stunned, to lose both 'Lil and Akuno is a blow. They were an important part of the Sentinels. More importantly, they were his friends.
"I hope you find your family Princess Akuno. 'Lil, please keep her safe, I hope you both return soon."
He joins Haemir in staring off in the direction they went.
Rurik Ironjaw (Robert) | AC 19 | CMD 19 | 48/48 HP | Monday June 7th, 2021 9:06:21 PM
Rurik strokes his beard as he thinks.
"I must admit I am unfamiliar with the dangers posed by this region, but perhaps controlled burn of the grasses would help? We dig two ditches, one around the town, and one further out, and then burn the grass inbetween. The ditches prevent the fire from spreading, and now you can see further out than before. If you maintain the ditches then they would also act as a defensive line in and of themselves."
Herbert Bramblerose (Bill Soucy) Monday June 7th, 2021 11:18:54 PM "Sometimes we follow our heart, and sometimes it leads to a hearth. I hope you are all able to take a breath and rest, and then find what it is your heart cries out for. I know you will find it; I believe in you." Herbert says, looking and sounding not quite as young of a cub as he did before.
Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP:36/36 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 - CMD:15 Active Spells: Mage Armour Tuesday June 8th, 2021 3:25:24 AM
Sol looks pretty heartbroken at the though of losing Lil and Akuno... it's odd for the wizard to show much emotion other than happiness, however this is obviously a bit too much for him.
"Be well Akuno, I will miss our little magical discussions." He doesn't say any more for fear of tearing up, as he tries to be at least somewhat stoic.
On the discussion of defences, he frowns.
"We would need to know more about the challenges you face to be able to help. What sort of issues do you face? What dangers threaten you? I am certain between ourselves we can help come up with some solutions, but ultimately we are also not a town guard, it is not where our expertise lies..." he pauses then looks around his new companions, and the loss of his old ones. "... at least I do not believe so. For certain it is not my area, but I can potentially look into teaching some magic to those with the aptitude that may be helpful."
Welcome back to New Rattledam! (DM Cayzle) Tuesday June 8th, 2021 6:41:04 AM
Akuno says her good-byes. She leaves, with 'Lil and Caelwyn.
Haemir, thinking about departing friends more than anything else, has no suggestion regarding town defense, and stays quiet, except to ask how many people inhabit the place. The council members are vague and unsure [OOC: same as your dungeon master], but takes a stab at some number of hundreds of people.
Haemir does speak in favor of a dome. Though that would take expertise to fashion correctly, expertise his own knowledge suggests the town does not have, maybe.
Thorondir is too struck by friends departing to even think about the town's defenses.
Rurik suggests a series of ditches. The mayor nods, though she seems a bit afraid of fires getting out of control.
Herbert offers wise words of farewell.
Sol wishes his comrades well, though he can barely say anything, for his emotions run high.
Then, to the council, he asks about the dangers the town faces.
The Mayor says, "Plagues of flying insects of course, you may recall such. The ravening beasts of the Grass, rapke and such, sure. And as more people populate the Sargrass, who is to say that the dangers posed by two-legged creatures may not be the most threatening."
"Still, you have offered us two good ideas. The idea of ditches is novel and also something we can implement. The dome idea answers other threats that ditches will not deter, but we do not have the capability to achieve it."
"Please wait and give us a short while to deliberate."
The council goes into isolation to debate among themselves, and an hour later reconvenes.
"We will pursue both of the solutions you suggest, but we need help. We have a request for you all." the Mayor says. "To complete a dome, we need Climber expertise. We would like to send a delegation to the Climbers, and ask for some among them to come and advise us. You will escort a delegation, led by Needle here, to the nearest Climber settlement, and hopefully return with the expert weavers we need."
"Will you help us with this mission?"
Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 39/39 -- Aewen: AC 14 -- HP 16/16 Tuesday June 8th, 2021 1:14:44 PM
“Sure, we can escort Needles to the settlement. Is it a journey that will use the Maiden to sail across the grasses or is this by foot?”
Thorondir is ready .
(OOC: I’m on a trip to Alaska so while I’ll try to not miss posting, I’m doing it on my phone and they will be short)
Haemir (Rich) AC:13 - HP:47/47 - CMD:15 | Fand: AC:23/27 - HP:49/49 - CMD:24 Tuesday June 8th, 2021 2:51:54 PM
"You had me at 'complete a dome'... I'm in" he says with a bow.
Wait, did Fand just roll her eyes at him? He gives her side eye.
Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP:36/36 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 - CMD:15 Active Spells: Mage Armour Tuesday June 8th, 2021 5:48:21 PM
Sol nods, a bright, if still somewhat sad smile appears on his face.
"Yes, we will be able to Needle safely so he can negotiate on your behalf."
Rurik Ironjaw (Robert) | AC 19 | CMD 19 | 48/48 HP | Wednesday June 9th, 2021 12:23:13 AM
Rurik nods, smiling. "Of course! Consider it already done."
A Favor for the Council (DM Cayzle) Wednesday June 9th, 2021 12:38:39 AM
The New Rattledam Town Council is well pleased.
"Thank you, young heroes! Needle here has been eager to go down this path for some time,"
"Truth speaks she!" says Needle. "For this very goal I have made the new wall ready to become a dome~ Departure is the morning's order of business!"
Sense Motive DC20: Highlight to display spoiler: {You have the idea that Needle is a little bit annoyed that he has been suggesting this for a while, but you guys come in, and everybody suddenly likes the idea!}
After a short measure of socializing, you are free. You have the night and the early morning to buy supplies and make ready.
[OOC: Heck, if you would like to have done anything in the day or three before, we can say that you did it. I'm easy with retconjuration, that way.]
The trip will take two days and a night on the Maiden (less if you sail through the night, but is that wise?). Please give me your orders for travel. What do you do at night? Camp? Keep sailing in the dark? Do you have watches? Please give me the standard info for your overland travel procedure.
Haemir (Rich) AC:13 - HP:47/47 - CMD:15 | Fand: AC:23/27 - HP:49/49 - CMD:24 d20+1=19 ; Wednesday June 9th, 2021 4:58:16 AM
Up till now we have always kept the Maiden going throughout the night - with the crew splitting into two shifts. There is usually a watch in the eagles/crows nest and we have two birds (crow and eagle) for additional help. In discussions before ref's hinted it was safer to keep moving (and got us where we wanted faster). I'm sure sentinels would be happy to share watches too as in essence - we would do them anyway if walking. Thorondir also enjoys eagle time acting as a scout. Food supplies are usually stored in my bag of holding and distributed daily (as I figure food stored in hot cargo holds is crazy).
Happy to make any amendments if anyone has ideas?
Lastly to Freakshow - he misses whatever was going on with him (sense motive:19) but asks if there is any supplies he think the group may like? If possible he will stock up.
Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 39/39 -- Aewen: AC 14 -- HP 16/16 d20=15 ; Wednesday June 9th, 2021 10:08:02 AM
Thorondir spends each morning as an eagle, flying with Aewen above the Maiden. On days the ship is slower than them they make large circles above her. He spends the afternoon as himself and will spend nights perched next to Aewen in the eagles nest. At night Thorondir will take the form of an owl. So 8 hours each as eagle, elf and owl.
He is ready to travel.
“Time to feel the wind again, it isn’t healthy to stay too long in a town.”
Rurik Ironjaw (Robert) | AC 19 | CMD 19 | 48/48 HP | d20+4=22 ; Wednesday June 9th, 2021 10:11:42 AM
Rurik has no problem with getting odd hours of sleep in order to stand watch, especially since they are used to being in dark, dangerous places. He defers to the rest of the party's experience in traversing the plains as to what the safest course of action could be.
( sense motive: 22 ) While he says nothing at the time, during the short period of socializing Rurik pulls Needle aside for a one on one conversation (although Needle needs to bend over quite a bit to be able to stay on the same level as the stout dwarf).
"I understand your frustration. It seems like these people idolize the heroes that brought them here, and have less inclination to listen to those who have helped maintain it. Remember that when we came we simply listened to what was needed, and deferred to your expertise. In this endeavor, we are simply extensions of your will. Find peace with yourself, and do not begrudge your fellow Rattledamites for their anxiousness."
Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP:36/36 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 - CMD:15 Active Spells: Mage Armour d20+4=16 ; Wednesday June 9th, 2021 6:33:39 PM
Sol is happy to help out and be useful to the party, however, he prefers sleeping at night if possible, though it doesn't matter too much to him.
He however fails to notice any subtext, probably as he has his nose in a book. ((Sense motive 16)).
Herbert Bramblerose (Bill Soucy) Wednesday June 9th, 2021 11:20:36 PM
Herbert, for all his cuteness, is a paladin, and will have no problem whatsoever doing his fair share (and then some) of sentry duty. Herbert spends his "off duty" time learning the ways of the crew, getting his 'grass legs' as it were, and helping out where help is needed. Herbert is not above getting dirty, but he also will not be relegated to being a lackey either.
Haemir (Rich) AC:13 - HP:47/47 - CMD:15 | Fand: AC:23/27 - HP:49/49 - CMD:24 Thursday June 10th, 2021 3:53:47 AM
When Rurik takes Needles aside Haemir is curious what's bothering him, he was so close he could almost feel it. Unable resist and without even realising he taps into that part of him he's still not used to. (Activating Remote Viewing: clairaudienceat will as SLA 640' range). He overhears the convo as if stood next to them, feeling a little bit awkward when he figures out what he's done.
One thing he does do is look at Rurik though new eyes. Seems the mountain of a dwarf soldier has a deep wisdom and compassion that he has rarely seen in others! He didn't mean to snoop, but definitely learned things.
A Favor for the Council (DM Cayzle) Thursday June 10th, 2021 8:00:40 AM
Before leaving, Rurik gets a hunch about what Needle is bothered about, and reassures him. [Rurik, please accept a hero point for great roleplay.]
The next day the heroes set out on the Maiden, with Needle and two assistants on board.
Haemir directs the vessel as he has in the past, and the ship moves across the grass smoothly through the day and then during night as well.
Thorondir keeps watch from above when he is not in humanoid shape. Sol and Herbert help out as the ship travels. The Maiden, moving many times faster than a human could manage to walk through the grass, arrives midmorning the next day.
As the ship approaches the Climber settlement, you can see your destination from afar because it rises high into the sky. The Climbers have built a series of towers and are in the process of stringing a large, spiderweb-like structure between them. The structures are graceful and slender, swaying in the breeze, but evidently in no danger of collapse.
As you get even closer, you see a group of ten people walking on the grass, just as you sail on it. Are they wearing druidwood "snowshoes"? No, they are on stilts. One steps forward and shouts for you to halt. They are clearly armed and armored in leather and carrying crossbows and blowguns. They are about 200 ft away. They are not exactly hostile, but they are wary.
Haemir (Rich) AC:13 - HP:47/47 - CMD:15 | Fand: AC:23/27 - HP:49/49 - CMD:24 d20+14=34 ; Thursday June 10th, 2021 12:58:17 PM
During the journey Haemir happily coaches any wanna-be sailors and throws himself into crewing, a captain who gets his hands dirty. He'd love to chat and get to know the new guys more but with a 24 hour crew he doesn't have much free time. However, when he catches Fand giving Sol a strange, intense stare he walks over and crouches next to her. His previous friend (the blue parrot) had been talkative, everyone knew her opinion! This one however, sat brooding? No that wasn't the word, but then she relaxes as he lays a hand on her - the spell broken she flops down. Flamboyantly stretching, rolling and curving her back she exposes her belly to the sun with her tongue hanging out. 'It's a trap' he thinks. 'No idiot tickles or scratches a Rapke's tummy right? He chuckles and goes back to work leaving her to an afternoon nap. The incident soon forgotten.
When the climbers hail them Haemir says to the first mate: "Let's do as the man asks Donald. Stay frosty but don't draw any weapons or give em reason to take offense".
After the Maiden stops Haemir concentrates, steps up, waves and adopts the native slang: "Greetings, no need t'be shuttlecocked we're not white hands. Needle's with us n' we're a pack from Rattledam seeking to speak with you weavers".
To Needle he says: "You continue to be a great shade for us all Needle. Thank you black face. Will you guide n' speak as beater for New Rattledam. She's as much yours as ours now n' we will always listen to you"! He steps back and allows Needle to do his thing, if he wants to of course. ---
(Diplomacy: 34 - includes a +2 self boost from Guide/Mislead & a nat '20' woot!)
Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP:36/36 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 - CMD:15 Active Spells: Mage Armour Thursday June 10th, 2021 6:47:36 PM
Sol actually studies a little under Haemir during the time off, as he would like to learn to be more useful on the ship where ever possible, it doesn't take long for his hands to blister, crack and bleed, however, he doesn't stop until told to.
"We should do our best not to offend them... diplomacy is certainly not my skill set... give me some magic, and I can work with it, but beyond that, I feel I am somewhat useless."
Herbert Bramblerose (Bill Soucy) Thursday June 10th, 2021 11:07:23 PM Herbert does his best to pick up Haemir's lingo, and develops a rolling stroll. He can be seen practicing some local vernacular over and over. He is frequently incorrect, but his attempts are endearing. When interacting with the Climbers, Herbert does his best to look nonchalant and unthrreatening. A pretty easy feat, actually.
Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 39/39 -- Aewen: AC 14 -- HP 16/16 d20+9=20 ; d20+10=28 ; Thursday June 10th, 2021 11:23:46 PM
Thorondir knows his strength is in keeping watch, certainly not in negotiations. He stands by his berry bush feeding Talpid the mole some worms. Aewen stays perched in the eagles nest keeping watch.
Perception Thorondir 20 Perception Aewen 28
Rurik Ironjaw (Robert) | AC 19 | CMD 19 | 48/48 HP | Friday June 11th, 2021 12:57:22 AM
Rurik stands ready with hand on sword, waiting to see how the situation plays out, wearing a calm and relaxed face that belies his inner vigilance.
Haemir (Rich) AC:13 - HP:47/47 - CMD:15 | Fand: AC:23/27 - HP:49/49 - CMD:24 Friday June 11th, 2021 7:05:08 AM
Hearing Herbert trying out the Sargrass lingo, he slips into professor mode and encourages him. "Wow, not bad at all! You're actually picking it up really fast"! (OOC: FYI: Sargrass Lingo.)
To Sol he heals his hands and taps the ring Virgil gave him (Profession (Sailor): +5). "Don't forget you have this! Maybe try not over thinking things n' the knowledge will flow through your hands"!
A Favor for the Council (DM Cayzle) Friday June 11th, 2021 7:15:10 AM
Haemir steps up to speak with the Climbers on stilts. His diplomacy and friendly manner go a long way toward a smooth encounter, and everybody relaxes. He introduces Needle.
Sol, Rurik, Thorindir, and Herbert are content to let their friend be the party "face."
The New Rattledam envoy steps up. Several of the guards recognize him, and express amazement to see him alive. There's some teasing mockery: "Oh, sure, the bouncer is coming back to the pack! We'll see about that!"
Needle explains that he has become a leader in a new settlement, and he has messages for the Dhief.
Between Needle and Haemir, the right words are spoken and the party is welcomed. You are allowed to moor your ship nearby while the delegation visits the climbers. You are given the choice of waiting with the ship or entering the settlement. You won't be allowed to see the Dhief, though. That's only for Climbers.
Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP:36/36 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 - CMD:15 Active Spells: Mage Armour Friday June 11th, 2021 6:20:23 PM
Sol nods, smiling at Haemir's words.
"Yes I could Haemir, but I prefer to learn things the hard way before using magic to augment my abilities."
Sol decides to go wandering around the settlement, seeing if he can find any books or magical curios he could take back to New Rattledam, the idea of setting up some sort of Star Mages guild hall or library occurring to him and him finding it a very pleasant idea.
Herbert Bramblerose (Bill Soucy) Friday June 11th, 2021 10:15:55 PM Herbert decides to wander around the settlement, looking for anyone that needs any help. Looking to do a good deed, and learn the ways of these new people.
Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 39/39 -- Aewen: AC 14 -- HP 16/16 Saturday June 12th, 2021 12:33:02 AM
Thorondir will walk about the settlement, looking for they way they use plants and to see if they have any domestic animals.
Rurik Ironjaw (Robert) | AC 19 | CMD 19 | 48/48 HP | Saturday June 12th, 2021 1:27:00 AM
Rurik decides to accompany Needle, just in case. He knows he won't be allowed at a certain point, but he can at least come along for part of the way. While waiting he watches the people go by, keeping an eye out for anything out of the ordinary.
Haemir (Rich) AC:13 - HP:47/47 - CMD:15 | Fand: AC:23/27 - HP:49/49 - CMD:24 Saturday June 12th, 2021 3:21:52 AM
Haemir loves meeting new settlements and cultures, so he's excited about looking around.
"When we get back to the Maiden, please will everyone who's a member of a guild help with letters inviting them to New Rattledam"?
Futures start with dreams. First the Star Mages guild, that opened teleportation and then others would follow. Perhaps even the WLA and catacombs later on... His pace quickens, was Herbert's zest and enthusiasm was rubbing off on him?
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