A Favor for the Council (DM Cayzle) Saturday June 12th, 2021 10:17:09 AM
The envoys head off with an escort, and the party splits to enjoy the sights and sounds of a Climber settlement.
The first thing you notice is that although the grass itself is trimmed to a short pleasant length, there is no wall or barrier keeping things OUT. Anyone -- or any beast -- could just walk in. You do see a lot of watchers on high, and they are all carrying horns.
The second thing you see is that almost all buildings are elevated off the ground, either on stilts or simply as tall buildings with doors way up overhead. You see residents easily climbing up and down, in and out, and even between towers on netting and rope bridges. You do not see even one person fall.
Sol finds his way to a market, and at least that is on the ground, thank goodness. The booths are little more than awnings, easy to take up and down. Mostly what you see are foodstuffs, cloth and clothes, baskets, rope, and so on. Metal goods are scarce and seem to command a premium.
Sol, if you roll a Gather Info (Diplomacy) check of 12 or higher, then Highlight to display spoiler: {You find a seller of paper goods and fine stiff cloth. This old lady happens to have a couple books for sale that she'll bring out if you like.}
Herbert looks to do a good deed. He does find a beggar, a middle aged man smelling of spirits who has a really mangled leg and several lost fingers. Here especially, a person who cannot climb would be at a deep disadvantage. He is sitting in the market with a basket for people to drop coins into. You see a few coppers. Most people look away.
Thorondir finds that the people here have tamed prairie pigs to graze and keep the grass down in the community, and of course they are tasty. All of the buildings are woven of bamboo and steelgrass.
Rurik joins Needle and his two helpers. You all are led to the tallest tower. At the base, Needle says to you three, "An obstacle is the height," motioning to the door, 40 ft off the ground, "as is tradition and custom. Only I will ascend." He tells his two helpers to wait here, and thanks Rurik for keeping them company on the walk over.
Both of the helpers are colonists from back in the founding day. One is Zam, an older human woman, and the other is Richart, a youngish fellow who is clearly impressed (and likely to have a sore neck from how he is looking up and twisting his heaf every whichaway).
Zam says to Rurik, "There are few enough dwarves in the Plains. What brings you here, if you do not mind me asking."
Haemir just enjoys looking around. But his head is filled with ideas for bosting his own town.
Feel free to explore. You have at least a few hours while Needle is negotiating.
Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 39/39 -- Aewen: AC 14 -- HP 16/16 Saturday June 12th, 2021 11:14:40 PM
Thorondir will spend his time moving about the village, trying out different forms. He spends some time as prairie pig, being careful not to be eaten. He visits with them, talking to them in their tongue. He asks how is life is and if he can do anything for them.
Haemir (Rich) AC:13 - HP:47/47 - CMD:15 | Fand: AC:23/27 - HP:49/49 - CMD:24 d100=47 ; d20+9=11 ; d20+12=27 ; Monday June 14th, 2021 2:04:18 AM
Haemir eventually stumbles on the market and sells the cargo at cost price (47% - no gain or loss of money). Noting metal sells well here he picks up cargo (foodstuffs, cloth, clothes, baskets and rope) for New Rattledam and then admires the building/structures (Knowledge Engineering:11).
Strolling around he snaps out of his reverie (seeing that these guys had mastered steel-grass wakes him up). He pokes it, feeling it really is as solid as steel and learns all he can about weaving the grasses. Looking closely at their weaving styles and noting how the different cultures seems to favour different patterns, etc. He will discuss it for ages if someone speaks to him, but he won't randomly accost people. (Craft Weaving:27)
Then he carries on looking around, an eager student/sponge soaking up whatever he can and meeting people.
Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP:36/36 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 - CMD:15 Active Spells: Mage Armour d20+1=2 ; Monday June 14th, 2021 5:54:10 PM
Sol spends more time looking for anything magical, to see if there may be something worth keeping/taking with him.
However, he is unable to gather any information leading him on any chases, merry or otherwise.
Rurik Ironjaw (Robert) | AC 19 | CMD 19 | 48/48 HP | Monday June 14th, 2021 10:04:32 PM "To protect innocents and do good deeds of course. I have heard that there is great trouble on these plains, potentially great evils that need doing, and it is my solemn duty to do what I can to aid those in need."
Rurik's face twists into wistful sorrow as he looks off into the distance, sighs, and says
Of course that isn't all. I've always been an outsider of sorts, a bit of a loner. Through no fault of my own I was.....unwelcome in my home. So leaving it was no great difficulty for me. While I admit being around beings so tall is strange, I have found my companions to be far more welcoming than the reception I am used to.
And with that he recomposes himself and his face once more assumes the self assured stoicism it is accustomed to.
"Ah but I do not wish to bore you with the intricacies of dwarven politics and history. Rurik waves his hand as if to clear the air of the heavy topic he touched on. "The problems of the longbeards are no thing for surface folk to dwell over"
Climber Challenge (DM Cayzle) Tuesday June 15th, 2021 6:53:36 AM
Thorondir communes with the prairie pigs and finds they are pretty dumb. [OOC: Are they actually slugs? Or just slug-like mammals? For now, I will call them animals, not vermin, but there's really not a lot going on upstairs for these guys. Something between a lobster and a cow, say] These seem fairly content with their lot, seeing as they are eating right now and there are no predators.
Haemir finds that the people here are friendly to strangers, though distant. As he gets closer to their core competencies, he gets the clear impression [Sense Motive DC1] that Climbers tend to look down on other people, and the condescension gets thick as he opens the topic of steelgrass. He learns little.
Sol too has limited success. He finds no books or lore.
Rurik has a deep conversation with Zam as they wait for Needle. She reciprocates with a tale of escape from a broken home and abusive husband in Hook City, and her desire to make a new life. You sense there is some tragedy in her past that she does not mention.
At least, not before Needle comes back from his deliberations. He leads Rurik, Zam, and Richart to find the rest of the party and regroup at the ship.
"My friends, we have a problem. The Dhief feels that this request by ... land-bound ... folk is an insult. He's proud. And so he respects no one who does not climb. He has challenged the delegates to a race. If Rattledam wants help from the Climbers, a team must climb up one of the towers, cross the current structures, and climb down a different tower. Needle, as a Climber, is excluded. A Climber team will race with the delegate team. Zam and Richart have no ability to climb, and are not even very athletic. Needles asks for your help.
[OOC: We're two days into a new scene, my friends. Please accept 1,000 xp for last scene.]
Haemir (Rich) AC:13 - HP:47/47 - CMD:15 | Fand: AC:23/27 - HP:49/49 - CMD:24 d20+7=23 ; Tuesday June 15th, 2021 11:06:22 AM
The idea terrifies Haemir and even just glimpsing the lofty cross-overs makes his palms sweat! Sure he'd climbed ships rigging, but not since his 'rebirth'? He had the feeling he was no better than Zam and Richart, but then it wasn't their task to help New Rattledam. He steps forward: "I'm in" he says with a cheerful grin. "How many make a team"? He asks - whilst thinking: 'My god, I'm gonna die'! ---
(Haemir puts on a brave face - Bluff:23)
Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 39/39 -- Aewen: AC 14 -- HP 16/16 Tuesday June 15th, 2021 4:41:16 PM
“I can do it.” Thorondir says “Can we do it tomorrow, so I can train first?”
Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP:36/36 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 - CMD:15 Active Spells: Mage Armour Tuesday June 15th, 2021 5:54:12 PM
Sol listens to the requirements, and asks about the challenge.
"Is magic allowed to aid? Or not, one would assume not, but do not wish to rule it out. As that is the only support I would be able to offer..."
He indicates his body
"I am not exactly the strongest or most athletic."
Herbert Bramblerose (Bill Soucy) Tuesday June 15th, 2021 6:22:07 PM Herbert looks at the beggar and feels for him. "Hello, do you mind if I sit next to you for a little bit? I have some bread...I have some to share, if you like? My name is Herbert, I'm here visiting. What is your name? I'd like to hear your story," he says, tearing a large hard roll in half and holding half out as he takes a big bite through the crunchy crust of his own half.
Rurik Ironjaw (Robert) | AC 19 | CMD 19 | 48/48 HP | Wednesday June 16th, 2021 12:09:44 AM
Rurik looks up at the towers, stroking his beard thoughtfully. "I have no great skill in climbing in particular, but I do take care to keep my strength of arm in good condition. My only fear is that such things may not be sized appropriately for one of my stature. Regardless, if this is the path to aiding the people of Rattledam, then I will happily climb as many towers as you wish."
Haemir (Rich) AC:13 - HP:47/47 - CMD:15 | Fand: AC:23/27 - HP:49/49 - CMD:24 Wednesday June 16th, 2021 4:13:18 PM
"How many of us can you 'train' Thorondir"?
Herbert Bramblerose (Bill Soucy) Wednesday June 16th, 2021 10:50:41 PM "I hope you don't mind me asking, but how did you get hurt? Those wounds look fearful. If Herbert can offer him a drink, safely, he will; otherwise, he won't
Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 39/39 -- Aewen: AC 14 -- HP 16/16 Thursday June 17th, 2021 11:19:26 AM
“I can train 4 of us to climb like a spider. I wonder if I can just become a spider or monkey, do you think that is allowed?”
Haemir (Rich) AC:13 - HP:47/47 - CMD:15 | Fand: AC:23/27 - HP:49/49 - CMD:24 Thursday June 17th, 2021 12:51:12 PM
Fand sniffs the air again to confirm the pack smell was not complete, then picking through the scents she notes which one is missing and follows it. There talking to a man. They look safe. She shrugs and walks over and when spotted - flops, rolls and lets her tongue flop out (her best charming 'Look at me I'm all playful and innocent'). When peoples return to talk, she slowly rolls, stretches, working her way over and taking her time. Occasionally picking grass from a paw, eventually she rests her head on - first Herbert, then the man. If stroked she purrrs. In a way she does her own therapy. She sniffs an area on the man that doesn't smell right. Sometimes you can smell an old injury or two. (Strangely she avoids hurting him) finds herself with the mans hand on her head (or Herbets - she's easy). Needy maybe?
Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP:36/36 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 - CMD:15 Active Spells: Mage Armour d20+6=8 ; Thursday June 17th, 2021 5:51:37 PM
Sol sees if he can have a look at what will be being climbed, and see if he can use his not inconsiderable reason to figure out the best route to climb up it.
((Intelligence - 8))
However he doesn't have the knowledge of climbing to know what would be the best option.
He begins looking to see if he can find a scroll of Spider Climb or something along those lines to use if magic is allowed.
Rurik Ironjaw (Robert) | AC 19 | CMD 19 | 48/48 HP | Thursday June 17th, 2021 6:59:37 PM "Four of us you say? I think that should cover all of us."
Herbert Bramblerose (Bill Soucy) Thursday June 17th, 2021 9:34:57 PM Herbert smiles and skritches the cat, and laughs a little. "It is good to find the little joys in life; to help others, to serve as we are able to." He does wonder about the rest of he Sentinels, and thinks that maybe after his snack and conversation, he should get back to his compatriots.
Haemir (Rich) AC:13 - HP:47/47 - CMD:15 | Fand: AC:23/27 - HP:49/49 - CMD:24 Friday June 18th, 2021 12:43:01 AM
Haemir visibly relaxes when Thorondir tells him he won't be dying soon. "Not sure polymorphing is a good idea. Otherwise I'd just turn into a monkey. It would be funny, but let's try to be subtle maybe"?
Climber Challenge (DM Cayzle) Friday June 18th, 2021 2:56:56 AM
Before hearing the news about the climbing competition, Herbert concludes his conversation with the beggar. His name is Jon, and he was a great hunter, until he was mauled by a Rapke. Now he can't climb and he can't hunt. Sense motive DC15 Highlight to display spoiler: {He is depressed and even wallowing a bit in his misfortune.} He is grateful for the bread and drink -- and even more for the kind ear.
=====
Haemir may be scared at the idea of a climb, but he does not show it as he declares that he is in!
Thorondir also volunteers and hopes it will be tomorrow. He wants to "train."
Haemir suspects that "training" might be useful for more than just Thorondir. He hints that he could offer the ability to climb like a spider.
Sol inquires and learns that anything goes, including magic.
Rurik is not sure he will succeed, but he is willing to try.
As the party ponders options, Needle tells you that you can have as many people as you like, but at least five must complete the course. He reminds you that it is a race, and though it is not necessary to win the competition, it is more impressive if you can. He also mentions that while magic is allowed, its use is considered beneath a true Climber, except for Feather Fall magic, which is appreciated.
Tomorrow morning will be fine.
[PS: Apologies for poor DM posting; I've been sick. I really appreciate people making posts even when the DM is not. Mad props! There will be another DM post early Sat AM.]
Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 39/39 -- Aewen: AC 14 -- HP 16/16 Friday June 18th, 2021 1:49:07 PM
Speaking to Needle, Thorondir says: "Well, I have no power to feather fall. My skills lie in replicating the abilities of animals. Certainly the climbers have used their time to gain skills in climbing, it seems only fair that I am able to use the skills that I have acquired during my time as well."
Thorondir will prepare 4 spider climbs, but won't use them if it isn't allowed. He doesn't see how of them will finish this course.
Rurik Ironjaw (Robert) | AC 19 | CMD 19 | 48/48 HP | Friday June 18th, 2021 7:36:15 PM
Rurik nods in response and vows to spend the rest of the day practicing his climbing abilities.
Climber Challenge (DM Cayzle) Saturday June 19th, 2021 7:37:45 AM
Needle clarifies. "There are different levels of success. Any success is better than failure. Spider Climbing is allowed, but a success without spider climbing is better than one with."
You do not find a place to stay that will welcome you tonight ... except for one run down tavern who overcharges three gold each to stay in a stable. Or you can return to your ship.
OOC: Please pick one of the below for your action -- do not read both!
If you stay in the tavern / stable: Highlight to display spoiler: {You hear many jokes and stories, the gist of which is that Climbers are clever and strong, and outlanders are weak and stupid.}
If you go back to the ship: Highlight to display spoiler: {One of the crew hears the talk and says, "I'm a great climber!"}
Haemir (Rich) AC:13 - HP:47/47 - CMD:15 | Fand: AC:23/27 - HP:49/49 - CMD:24 Sunday June 20th, 2021 1:21:47 PM
Haemir isn't objectionable to a barn but his hammock on the ship is more comfy - so back to Maiden it is. He almost face-palms when Padre speaks up - of course he'd seen the crewman shooting up the rigging like a monkey! "Excellent! Welcome to the team"! He pats him on the back!
Haemir (Rich) AC:13 - HP:47/47 - CMD:15 | Fand: AC:23/27 - HP:49/49 - CMD:24 Monday June 21st, 2021 10:25:38 AM
"Ok Needle, so if we use the aid of Thorondir n' his spider climbs, we will move faster than most people can climb n' will probably live to tell the tale! However, if we take risks n' do this unassisted... does this make New Rattedam's rewards any better". Haemir (despite not really being a climber) is up for the risk if the rewards are better - but doesn't see the point if it makes no difference.
Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 39/39 -- Aewen: AC 14 -- HP 16/16 Monday June 21st, 2021 3:00:01 PM "So Needle, how long is this course and how much time is usually taken to complete it? Since we don't seem to have access to feather fall, it seems like a spider climb will perhaps keep our folks from falling. How high up does it go? Just need to know if a fall is painful or deadly."
After hearing Needle's comments Thorondir adds:
"I need to go back and check on Aewen and Talpid, so I'm headed back to the Maiden."
He goes back and spends some time with Aewen, flying as an eagle and hunting for food. Once he is back to the Maiden he checks on Talpid the mole and makes sure he is doing well. That is when he hears that Padre can climb. "Great news Padre, do any of the rest of you fancy yourself climbers?"
Rurik Ironjaw (Robert) | AC 19 | CMD 19 | 48/48 HP | Monday June 21st, 2021 6:12:09 PM
Rurik decides to stay in the town, unpleasant accommodations bother him little, and he wants to hear what the people there speak of. He learns little of note, and the jeers and laughs do little to daunt him in preparing for his future endeavors.
Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP:36/36 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 - CMD:15 Active Spells: Mage Armour Monday June 21st, 2021 6:25:44 PM
Sol returns to the ship, not wanting to over pay for something so simple, and not wishing to outstay his welcome, especially since they're making it clear they don't want the Sentinels there.
"I think we should attempt the course without magic. I can prepare Feather Fall enough times to protect our entire team, and even some of their team too, I think, and assuming we need no other magic from me. I think offering to cast it on their team may also earn us some good will. The impression I get is that whether we succeed or not is not relevant so much as our attitudes and determination that matter."
Assuming no one requests he doesn't Sol will prepare Feather fall with all of his spell slots (as many as he needs, saving two third level slots, one as Fly and one as Hold Person.
Herbert Bramblerose (Bill Soucy) d8=5 ; Monday June 21st, 2021 9:45:10 PM
Herbert returns to sleep on the ship after his excursion into town. After he is filled in on the happenings by the rest of the party, "Oh! I can do that! I'm normally kinda clumsy, but climbing is something I am good at...well, I've only ever climbed trees...I don't know about these strange grass things...but it probably isn't that different". {climb 4} (I must have accidently clicked on a die roll...don't know wat that is for...)
Answering the quesiton, Needle tells you that if you use magic, your performance will carry less weight. For example, if you win with obvious magic, maybe the Climbers will send a journeyman to New Rattledam. If you climb well without magic, maybe a master and a few journeymen will be impressed and come. If you fail, then no one would lose face by accompanying you to New Rattledam.
===== ===== =====
The new day dawns, and you gather at the center of the town for the race. The course is this: Up 100 ft, then across 100 ft, then down the next tower 100 ft. The course is created and designed to be climbed, so to go up requires one DC10 check (and one minute) and to go down requires another DC10 check (and another minute). To go across you can take a slower and safer DC20 path (three minutes) or a faster DC25 path (one minute). If you miss a check by less than 5, you delay a minute. If you miss by five or more you fall and are out of the race
You can climb individually or as a team. If you climb individually, you each make your own roll. If you climb as a team, calculate your check with the ranks of the most skillful climber, plus the bonus of the strongest climber, plus one each for the third, fourth, fifth, etc, members of the team. Being in a team slows you down by one round per team member per leg.
The Climber team goes first. The 9 members of this team mostly have bonuses of at least +9 (3 ranks +3 class bonus, +3 str, for example), and they all move up and down the towers as individuals, at the fastest speed. Two have bonuses of +8 and one has a +7 -- those have to roll. The two at +8 roll a 26 and a 10, so they are fine. The one at +7 rolls a 13, also fine. Everyone ascends in 1 minute.
At the bridge, however, the Climbers go across between the towers as a team. This strategy makes them fast where it is relatively safe, but keeps them safe where it is more dangerous. Now, as a team, they have a +4 for ranks and a +9 for bonus (a strong guy has a feat). That's a base +13. They have another +7 from the rest of their team, for a total of +20. They do not take a chance on the DC25 path, and it takes them three minutes plus 9 rounds to go across, no roll needed.
Finally they downward leg. Again, at DC10, they all go down individually. The three weakest Climbers roll ... 22, 23, and 25, no problem. Total race time is 5 minutes, 9 rounds. (5.9 minutes). The crowd cheers this performance, but the fact is that they played it conservative to minimize the risks.
NOW IT IS YOUR TURN!
Unless someone knows his stats, let's say your NPC, Padre, has 2 ranks, +3 str, +3 as a class skill, and +3 for a feat. His total bonus is 2 ranks +9.
Who will be ascending? You have three legs: Up, Across, and Down. For each leg, will you climb as a team or individually? Will you take the fast DC25 route across or the slow DC20 route?Let's take a post to make sure your tactics are all set, and then after the next DM post we'll make actual rolls, if needed.
Rurik Ironjaw (Robert) | AC 19 | CMD 19 | 48/48 HP | d20+4=18 ; Tuesday June 22nd, 2021 11:54:51 AM
(whoops I clicked to roll my climb check before reading the last line :p )
"I think that we can climb the legs on our own, it doesn't seem too difficult. The bridge on the other hand.....that we need to do together. I'm not sure I could pull that off."
Haemir (Rich) AC:13 - HP:47/47 - CMD:15 | Fand: AC:23/27 - HP:49/49 - CMD:24 Tuesday June 22nd, 2021 7:14:09 PM
"Seems to me the greater the risk.. the greater the reward. We could win this in our sleep, spider-climbing faster than any records they've ever set! But that won't earn respect. This is a test"! He mumbles taping a finger on his chin: "Step into a man's shoes n' show him you in his world".
The morning: "I second that Rurik, let's do exactly what they did, but let's use our heads a bit more"
(OOC since we knew we were climbing Haemir would have suggested Bull Strength to Sol/Thorondir. If one is cast on everyone before we arrive - it's subtle. Haemir will be up for going for the tough climb but tbh it's gonna take hero points for a 100% success or risk a 50/50 chance in some cases. He's all in but will be talked down if everyone isn't up for it).
Herbert Bramblerose (Bill Soucy) Tuesday June 22nd, 2021 11:04:19 PM
Herbert has invested 1 rank in climbing and has a strength mod of 3. no magic assistance.
Haemir (Rich) AC:13 - HP:47/47 - CMD:15 | Fand: AC:23/27 - HP:49/49 - CMD:24 Wednesday June 23rd, 2021 1:31:06 AM
Here's my thoughts:
Climber Challenge (DM Cayzle) Wednesday June 23rd, 2021 11:05:49 AM Rurik suggests doing the ups/downs individually, and the bridge as a team. That's how the NPCs just did it.
Haemir puts together a clear explanation of the options. [OOC: Excellent document, Rich.] He agrees with Rurik but is very open to a less conservative path.
Herbert explains his own capabilities.
Sol and Thorondir offer quiet suggestions [OOC: Saw the emails, thanks. BUt it is always good to make a post.]
The only thing left is to decide on your preferred tactic for the bridge and make rolls! Needles wishes you all good luck!
Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 39/39 -- Aewen: AC 14 -- HP 16/16 d20+8=17 ; d20+8=12 ; Wednesday June 23rd, 2021 2:40:31 PM "I wish I had prepared Bull's Strength but I chose Spider Climb. Bull's Strength only lasts 6 minutes, so it would be difficult to cast prior to showing up here and have it still effective. Spider climb would last an hour, but I guess we decided against using it. I'll climb up and down with my own abilities, and go with the group across."
Aewen circles above, if eagles could look concerned she would. Really though she just looks majestic.
Up 17 Across - letting someone else roll for group, feel free to use one of my hero points for the +8. Down 12
Haemir (Rich) AC:13 - HP:47/47 - CMD:15 | Fand: AC:23/27 - HP:49/49 - CMD:24 d20+17=22 ; d20+2=16 ; Wednesday June 23rd, 2021 6:13:09 PM
Haemir stares at people (giving everyone +2 on their next roll as per bw 'guide' ability). He casts Alter Self (assuming 'himself' form - 'medium' which simply boosts his str up from 9 to 11 and wipes out his negative modifier) using still spell before the climb.
Then he takes something and mutters a word - activating a m/w climbing tool (like a ninja claw in his palm) in one hand. Then he digs deep (uses a hero point in advance +8. With the climbing tool +2 he shouldn't need to roll for the (DC:10) climb up).
The climb across (working as a team): The highest skill is Padre with: +8 (2 ranks, +3 class, +3 feat) Rurik has highest str (+4) +3 for 5 members (assuming Herert climbs) +2 bw 'guide' most of the party = +17 Rolls (22) so uses a Hero point after the event for +4 = (26) and makes it across - just.
Climbing down he's beginning to realy enjoy himself, sweating, straining, smiling. In the moment he forgets to dig deep and simply climbs (his only assistance the claw (+2) and makes it (Climb:16). It's not till he gets to the bottom he realises he just "did that" and his jaw drops.
Haemir (Rich) AC:13 - HP:47/47 - CMD:15 | Fand: AC:23/27 - HP:49/49 - CMD:24 Wednesday June 23rd, 2021 6:15:14 PM
Haemir will also be keeping an eye out (using guide - if he sees someone close to falling - granting them +2)
Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP:36/36 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 - CMD:15 Active Spells: Mage Armour Wednesday June 23rd, 2021 7:16:39 PM
Sol watches, having cast Feather Fall on all involved (if the other team request it), however he has nothing more to add at this time.
Rurik Ironjaw (Robert) | AC 19 | CMD 19 | 48/48 HP | d20+4=19 ; d20+4=13 ; Wednesday June 23rd, 2021 9:50:24 PM
Rurik rubs his hands together, cracks his knuckles and..... ( Climb:19) ascends the platform easily. Being used to walking around carrying the weight of his armor, scrambling up this little platform without it barely qualifies as a workout. Once he reaches the top he looks around to make sure everyone is ok, gives an encouraging nod and holds a hand out to anyone climbing up after, and heads across.
On the climb down, he....( Climb: 15 (OOC forgot to add Haemir's guide ability to the roll) has a bit more difficulty, but manages nonetheless. He isn't really used to going backwards, and with his long beard he has a bit of an issue seeing where exactly to put his feet. Nevertheless he ends up safely on the ground once more, having barely broken a sweat.
"Well that wasn't too bad, I was expecting far worse!"
Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 39/39 -- Aewen: AC 14 -- HP 16/16 Thursday June 24th, 2021 11:10:36 AM
Thorondir smiles and nods at Rurik's comment. "It was actually kind of fun. These things are until someone falls."
Aewen swoops down, relived that Thorondir is safe. She sits on his shoulder, nuzzling against him.
Haemir (Rich) AC:13 - HP:47/47 - CMD:15 | Fand: AC:23/27 - HP:49/49 - CMD:24 Thursday June 24th, 2021 11:15:07 AM
(OOC I am not sure but does everyone have to roll for the cross over bit!? The way I understood is everyone rolls but you get the group +17).
(CAYZLE we went the hard way)
Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 39/39 -- Aewen: AC 14 -- HP 16/16 d20+25=43 ; Thursday June 24th, 2021 11:33:16 AM
OOC: I read it as a group roll, sorry.
Using a hero point, Thorondir easily crosses the horizontal section of the course. Roll = 43
Haemir (Rich) AC:13 - HP:47/47 - CMD:15 | Fand: AC:23/27 - HP:49/49 - CMD:24 Thursday June 24th, 2021 12:02:11 PM
Haemir (for the record) refused the Feather Fall.
Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 39/39 -- Aewen: AC 14 -- HP 16/16 Thursday June 24th, 2021 12:21:17 PM
Thorondir also did the course with the use of any spells.
Climber Challenge (DM Cayzle) Thursday June 24th, 2021 4:13:22 PM
Sol watches his friends, feather fall at the ready. Herbert stays behind too.
On the individual legs up and down, Thorondir, Rurik, and Padre climb just fine.
Haemir manages just fine with some very subtle magic and a climbing tool. There is some catcalling and jeering when his climbing tool is put to good use.
The four-person team tries for the faster, tricker climb -- only one roll is needed for the entire team. The most ranks are three (Thorondir) and the highest bonus +11 (+3 str, +3 class +3 feat, +2 Guide; is Padre). There are four climbers, and the extras give a +2. The total is 3+11+2=+16. The roll is a 5, for a total of 21. A retroactive hero point brings that to 25, exactly what is needed!
So the team just manages to win the task!
[OOC: One hero point was spent on this entire climb, Haemir's.]
The crowd is silent, and then some applause rings out.
Needles claps you four on the backs or shakes hands.
There is not much to do after the event. You retire to the ship. In the morning, a master Climber-Builder and one apprentice arrive and agree to work for New Rattledam directing the construction of their dome.
Congratulations!
Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP:36/36 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 - CMD:15 Active Spells: Mage Armour Thursday June 24th, 2021 5:56:37 PM
Sol enjoys the revelry and goes over to his compatriots.
"Well done friends, you did a wonderful job, far better than anything I can do, even if I had useful magics to assist me! Congratulations!"
Rurik Ironjaw (Robert) | AC 19 | CMD 19 | 48/48 HP | Thursday June 24th, 2021 6:14:45 PM
Rurik gives a polite bow of thanks, then breaks out in a toothy grin.
"If they thought that was hard physical work, they should have seen what we did under the mountain to shore up the tunnels from goblin attacks!
Haemir (Rich) AC:13 - HP:47/47 - CMD:15 | Fand: AC:23/27 - HP:49/49 - CMD:24 Friday June 25th, 2021 1:45:39 AM
On the way back to the ship - Fand bumps against Herbert till she gets his attention, then she sits and watches him. It's difficult to pin-point what it is about Fand that makes the Rapke different from most other animals. It's like there's a deeper intelligence or something swimming just below the surface!? As Herbert walks she nods her head back to the climbers, more specifically towards where Jon (the ex-great hunter) was. She then nods back in the Maiden's direction. Was she trying to tell him something?
Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 39/39 -- Aewen: AC 14 -- HP 16/16 2d4=8 ; Friday June 25th, 2021 9:43:43 AM
Thorondir spends his time on the ship taking care of his Whortleberry bush and his mole friend Talpid. The container they live in seems to be in good shape. He waters the bush and gathers more worms for Talpid. Picking some ripe bluish-red berries, he casts Goodberry and tucks 8 enchanted berries away for future use.
"Well, I'm a bit surprised at how well we did in the race. But we used all the skills we had to do that short event. Doing that all day long while constructing a dome is something well beyond us, I think the climbers deserve more accolades than us. Plus, didn't you see that they purposely took a longer time on the crossing to allow us the opportunity to win? Their technique of slow and safe is what is needed for someone who spends their life climbing. We probably shouldn't try and keep up with them, our method of going fast will eventually lead to disaster."
Rurik Ironjaw (Robert) | AC 19 | CMD 19 | 48/48 HP | Friday June 25th, 2021 10:09:34 PM "I agree. While I have no issues working to construct this dome if that is what needs to be done, there are those better suited to take on this tasks and tasks better suited for us to take on ourselves."
Journey back to New Rattledam (DM Cayzle) Saturday June 26th, 2021 10:39:01 AM
The weather turns overcast shortly after the ship leaves the Climber colony. It remains that way all morning. Things are cooler than usual, but not in the least uncomfortable. The sailors take it in stride, although the navigator is annoyed; the clouds mean he has to use dead reckoning to chart your position, which is less accurate than methods he has when the sun and stars are visible. [OOC: Forgive your uninformed DM; which NPC is the navigator? Or is that a PC?]
By evening, you encounters a windstorm. The sailors have a hard time maintaining their heading in the winds. The ship have no rudder (because grass is not water after all!), and must do all the steering by sail. If you have any relevant skills or other ideas, you may want to help ... whichever way you can.
If you make a know nature check DC15 then Highlight to display spoiler: {These winds are going to get worse.}
If you make a Sailor check vs DC15 then Highlight to display spoiler: {You may want to lower the sails to save them, or maybe use your new special sail, if you want to risk it. Press on or stop and ride it out?}
Thorondir it occurs to you that you might want to take your critters below deck for safety.
Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 39/39 -- Aewen: AC 14 -- HP 16/16 d20+9=19 ; Saturday June 26th, 2021 5:05:46 PM
Thorondir grabs his planter with his Whortleberry bush and mole friend and starts to haul them below deck. "This wind is likely to get worse, perhaps much worse."
He calls to Aewen and the eagle flies down from his perch. He takes her below deck and has her perch on the edge of the Whortleberry container. "Stay here friend, the wind is going to be bad."
Thorondir goes back above deck as the wind buffets him about. "I can set us deep into the grass if we want to take harbor from this storm instead of running with it. I can shrink the grasses just below the ship, so that the Maiden is sheltered a bit by the grass on all sides. I can also create a tree that we can tie onto, or we can pound stakes into the ground and anchor her. Let me know if that is something you desire, I don't know much about sailing, even less so in a storm."
Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 39/39 -- Aewen: AC 14 -- HP 16/16 Monday June 28th, 2021 12:11:15 AM
Thorondir licks his finger and holds it up, trying to judge the speed of the wind. He then takes a geatheryand lets it go, watching as it flies away.
Haemir (Rich) AC:13 - HP:47/47 - CMD:15 | Fand: AC:23/27 - HP:49/49 - CMD:24 d20+10=13 ; d20+1=13 ; Monday June 28th, 2021 5:52:53 AM
Haemir is napping when the storm hits. The juddering wakes him up and he heads up on deck sleepy-headed and too tired to think, it doesn't occur to him to do much (Sailing:13). "If you can make the grass grow back afterwards Thorondir - why not. It's a better plan than any I have" he confesses then adds: "We should organise watches" . Then he goes to check on the climbers, introducing himself he explains the maiden is going to sit the storm out. He tries to get a read on them (Sense motive:13) but he knows he's not the most perceptive on such matters.
CDM Jerry [OOC post] Monday June 28th, 2021 4:31:56 PM
Greetings Woldians!
We have TWO games that have achieved Level 20 and just retired over the weekend! So in our usual tradition, we're holding a celebration for the next few days on the Giggling Ghost board!
Folks are already beginning to gather. We expect everyone to join in and post daily on the GG board, but all are excused from posting in their "regular career game" through Wednesday at least. :) It doesn't mean you can't post, just that you don't have to.
DMs if you're in combat, feel free to just post a "pause until after Wednesday" if you'd like, or you can do that anyway. These celebrations are important as both of these games have players who have been working for at least 9 years to achieve this retirement for their PCs.
--DMs may take the role of an NPC or 2 if they wish and hand out dishes, create action, help out, etc. --Anyone may take the stage and tell a story or sing a song. --Post as many times a day as you'd like on the Giggling Ghost board.
Entertain yourselves and enjoy!
Yes you may go there now and post. Yes you should go there now and post. What are you waiting for? Yes, now is fine. Are you still reading this? Why?
Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP:36/36 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 - CMD:15 Active Spells: Mage Armour Monday June 28th, 2021 6:06:40 PM
Sol is writing in his journal when the storm hits, and he himself has no skills that would be applicable here, despite his attempts to learn, so he simply stows his journal and gear below deck nearby where he sleeps, returns to the deck and helps wherever he can, as instructed by those more trained in these things.
Journey back to New Rattledam (DM Cayzle) Monday June 28th, 2021 11:30:44 PM
Haemir gives the order to drop anchor, at least figuratively, and he helps bring the sails down.
Thorondir is no sailor, but he plays a vital role in nestling the ship out of the winds and anchoring it to a tree.
Sol mostly stays out of trouble, below decks with the Climber delegation, Needles, and the other heroes.
Setting watches, then? There will be two NPC crew on each watch. Any of you heroes want to join them? Let's assume three watches before dawn.
Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 39/39 -- Aewen: AC 14 -- HP 16/16 Tuesday June 29th, 2021 2:47:25 PM
Once the ship has halted, Thorondir accomplishes his tasks by first casting diminish plants in an area that includes the ship and extends 10 feet out on all sides. He then takes his last feather token, and plants it at in the small clearing behind the ship. A large stout oak tree springs up, and he asks the crew to fasten the ship to the tree with ropes. Once the crew has done so, Thorondir then says:
"Hopefully the grasses will block some of the wind and the tree will hold us fast. I'm a bit worried about our vulnerability down low in the grass, so I will create some spikes around the ship. Don't leave the ship or the spikes will pierce your feet."
Once he is satisfied that he has done all he can do to keep the Maiden and the crew safe he adds: "I need to rest for a bit, I'll take the last watch."
Thorondir will then cast Spike Growth, the area should cover from the edge of the Maiden out 20 feet in all directions.
Haemir (Rich) AC:13 - HP:47/47 - CMD:15 | Fand: AC:23/27 - HP:49/49 - CMD:24 Tuesday June 29th, 2021 3:51:21 PM
"The four anchors, one in each corner should help. I'll take second watch with Fand. Great work Thorondir n' thanks"!
Journey back to New Rattledam (DM Cayzle) Tuesday June 29th, 2021 11:13:15 PM
[OOC: Per Jerry, posting is optional while we enjoy the Giggling Ghost party. Please head over there. I'll make a DM Post when we have a few more player posts.]
Journey back to New Rattledam (DM Cayzle) Wednesday June 30th, 2021 5:15:34 PM
In the midst of the storm, a figure appears, stumbling in through the grass. Clearly in need of shelter, this person comes during the first watch. The crew ring the bell, and everybody wakes up who is asleep.
Is this a threat? A wandering monster?
[OOC: No, its our newest PC, played by SteveK! Please give a big welcome, and describe yourselves. We're still in the slowdown, so also go to the Giggling Ghost please.]
Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 39/39 -- Aewen: AC 14 -- HP 16/16 Wednesday June 30th, 2021 6:06:46 PM
OOC: I had spike growth 20 feet out around the ship, so unfortunately the new guy has to deal with that before he gets to the ship. "Any creature moving on foot into or through the spell's area takes 1d4 points of piercing damage for each 5 feet of movement through the spiked area." Sorry
Rubalad. (SteveK) | AC 24 | CMD 21 | 51 / 52 HP | Ruby d20+18=26 ; d4=1 ; d20+10=17 ; d20+19=37 Thursday July 1st, 2021 12:28:52 AM
Deliberately moving, Rubalad eases towards the bulk in front of him. He moves towards it, nearly seeing the spike growth, but not quite…
The small figure in the dark stops and considers, bending to look at the Grasses and rub a leg. Not permanently injured, he decides, and makes a decision.
”Ho the… the boat! Be ye good souls to take in a person who doesn’t quite know where he is?”
When more light is available, anyone can see the striped badger stands on his hind feet, barely topping 3 foot tall. He wears the mottled greens and tans of a hunter. Chain mail, scimitar and shield look well cared for and used. He blinks, then speaks in a pleasant baritone; “I am Rubalad of Amberdale, and I greet you as an equal in the Wold.”
He looks for the humans i among the crew for motives, feeling they are easier to read…
…….. Perception 26. To see the spike growth. Fail Damage. 1 Reflex 17 vs ?DC to avoid injury Sense Motive. 37. Are they aggressive, do they wish a Beast-folk harm?
Haemir (Rich) AC:13 - HP:47/47 - CMD:15 | Fand: AC:23/27 - HP:49/49 - CMD:24 d20+1=15 ; d20+6=15 ; d20+6=15 ; Thursday July 1st, 2021 12:23:10 PM
A violin tune echoes from below deck ... (Perform:15) snippets in the wind. Until the alarm goes up, then a 6'2 slim elf with grey, weather-beaten marble-like skin, dusty hair (or vines?) and eyes that mirror every exotic colour of the Sargrass steps up in deck and stretches as if he's shaking a knot from his back. Hearing a voice (perception:15) he moves to the edge of The Maiden of the Plains.
"By Gargul's beard, there's someone out there"! He steps closer to the edge and peers into the dark. "Greetings Rubalad of Amberdale. You are more than welcome" he calls back "but please wait there are traps laid out"...
He turns to Thorondir and asks if the druid can remove the spikes. ---
(With such an amazing sense motive - it's easy to tell the dark elf seems open, friendly, concerned and curious).
Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 39/39 -- Aewen: AC 14 -- HP 16/16 d20+4=14 ; d20+9=20 ; Thursday July 1st, 2021 3:18:48 PM
Coming up from below deck, an elf dressed in a cloak of green and brown looks out toward the sound of a voice. He sees a badger, but one dressed in armor. Another beast folk, he wonders if this one speaks badger.
"He looks friendly, but doesn't it seem strange for someone to come upon us in the night out here in the Sargrass? Perhaps it is a trick, a shape shifter perhaps?"
sense motive 15
He looks carefully at the badger. Perception 20 "I think he is another beastfolk, they seem to come in all sorts. I don't think removing the spikes is a good idea, if I bring them down we may be attacked from all sides. This friendly looking fellow may be trying to trick us. How about instead we lower him a plank and he can walk across it to the ship. That way we are still protected in case there are others waiting to board the ship."
Thorondir will then get the plank they use to connect with the docks (we must have one), and lowers it to make a ramp up to the ship. "Come aboard, please excuse my caution."
Once he comes aboard Thorondir pulls up the plank.
"So, where did you come from and how did you find us at night in a storm?"
Haemir (Rich) AC:13 - HP:47/47 - CMD:15 | Fand: AC:23/27 - HP:49/49 - CMD:24 Friday July 2nd, 2021 6:04:51 PM
Fand stands up on her back legs, leans on the railing with her front paws and looks outwards - next to Haemir. "Are you copying me"? He asks the Rapke without looking. She snorts, drops down and swaggers off.
Journey back to New Rattledam (DM Cayzle) Friday July 2nd, 2021 6:49:32 PM
A plank is laid and the newcomer has the chance to come aboard.
Rubalad senses no ill intent from these people.
Rubalad. (SteveK) | AC 24 | CMD 21 | 51 / 52 HP | Ruby d20+15=22 d20+15=22 Saturday July 3rd, 2021 2:04:53 AM
Accepting the preferred plank, Rubalad agilely walks the plank, but to safety he hopes! Elves, he thinks, oh and some humans, and a dwarf and… ah, yes, another beast-folk in the dark! And they seem curious and cautious, both good signs.
”I was wondering the same thing: how did you find me? And why is your boat stuck in a forest of grass? I… well… sigh… I’m lost. Completely lost. And that’s hard for a Tracker to admit. But if you could just tell me what level I am on, I’d be grateful.”
Rubalad keeps his eyes and ears open, knowing that if this group are really bandits or slavers, he just gave them vital information on how vulnerable he is. But, in for a copper, in for a platinum, and he has to start somewhere.
…….
Perception. 22 Sense Motive 22
Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 39/39 -- Aewen: AC 14 -- HP 16/16 Saturday July 3rd, 2021 5:08:26 PM "The Maiden of the Plains, that is the name of this ship, has two levels. You are on the upper level, which I believe we just call the deck. The lower level is where our cabins and storage is, and we call that below deck. Have you never been on a boat? This particular boat floats on the grass, because the druid wood it is constructed of and the grass push back on each other."
Thorondir looks the badger up and down.
"Excuse me, I am Thorondir. The druids have sent me to watch over this ship and its occupants. I am the one who laid down the trap that cut your foot. Here, eat on of these goodberries, it will heal your cut and fill your stomach."
Thorondir offers a purplish-red whortleberry to the new arrival.
Rubalad. (SteveK) | AC 24 | CMD 21 | 52 / 52 HP | Ruby Monday July 5th, 2021 11:46:35 AM
Rubalad nods and eats the whortleberry. He then drinks from his water skin and offers it to Thorondir. “A gift for a gift”, he says. ”It contains some cold lemon tea”, he explains.
But the self-named Tracker shakes his furry head and tries again. “I mean what ring?” Several questions later including words like ‘plateau’, ‘magic roads’, and ‘New Elennia’, and the badger shakes his head again, this time in dawning wonder and horror. ”It sounds like this place isn’t anywhere on the Elennian Peninsula at all! Where am I?”
Haemir (Rich) AC:13 - HP:47/47 - CMD:15 | Fand: AC:23/27 - HP:49/49 - CMD:24 Monday July 5th, 2021 5:26:47 PM
"Master Rubalad of Amberdale, you are in the Sargrass Plains where water can attract monsters, you must be careful they can smell it for miles"! The elf definitely looks concerned - especially when the lid came off of a suddenly produced waterskin.
Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP:36/36 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 - CMD:15 Active Spells: Mage Armour Monday July 5th, 2021 6:08:12 PM
Sol sticks his head out, he has brown hair in a half up, half down style, boyish looks but his eyes flash with bright intelligence. He has a smile which is never far from his face, and often has his journal out, which he often is writing in.
"Why hello, I'm Elijah Solomon, call me Sol. It is good to have another addition to our merry band!"
Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 39/39 -- Aewen: AC 14 -- HP 16/16 d20+9=10 ; Monday July 5th, 2021 8:09:43 PM "He is right about the water, best to save that for a drink later. Thanks for the offer. I don't know about the Elennian Peninsula, but he is correct again. You are in the Sargrass Plains, where exactly it is hard to determine. Maps are a bit useless here."
Thorondir looks about at the effect of the winds on the ship, trying to get a sense of what is in store. Knowledge Nature 10, nat. 1 roll
Herbert Bramblerose (Bill Soucy) Monday July 5th, 2021 11:13:17 PM "More friends! Hullo! I'm Herbert Bramblerose! Pleased to make your acquaintance! his bright black and brown eyes gleaming with delight. "Are you from far away lands? There is so much to learn! I'm not the best at learning though, although I do enjoy stories!"
Journey back to New Rattledam (DM Cayzle) Tuesday July 6th, 2021 12:54:57 AM
You become acquainted with the stranger in the night, a complete neophyte regarding the hazards of the Sargrass Plains. There will be some learning to do with this one!
But not tonight! After midnight, the windstorm actually worsens. You have a choice: continue to lie doggo, anchored as best you can, and resist the wind. Or release the ropes and try to ride the storm out.
If you make a Know Nature check DC10, then Please Highlight to display spoiler: {The winds are going to get even worse!}
If you make a Sailing check DC12, then Please Highlight to display spoiler: {If you stay tied down, there is a chance the ropes will break, or that the wind will blow something against the ship, or that the ship will suffer damage!}
If you make a Sailing check DC18, then Please Highlight to display spoiler: {It will be hard, very hard, like DC25 hard, to sail these winds successfully. But it is possible.}
Rubalad. (SteveK) | AC 24 | CMD 21 | 52 / 52 HP | Ruby d20+5=19 ; Tuesday July 6th, 2021 2:50:31 AM
Rubalad jerks as if stung. ”Sargrass? I’ve never heard of the Sargrass before.”. He looks quizzically at Haemir and Thorondir, wondering if they are having a joke at the beast-folk. Besides, his waterskin has a nozzle, not a lid, but…
Sol and Herbert’s friendliness puts him more at ease. ”Why hello, and call me Ruby. Pleased to make your acquaintance.”
The wind intensifies, and the Tracker looks at the poles and ropes hanging above the boat. ”Wind is going to get even worse before it gets better. Is this thing going to hold together?”
….. Know Nature. 19
Haemir (Rich) AC:13 - HP:47/47 - CMD:15 | Fand: AC:23/27 - HP:49/49 - CMD:24 d20+12=27 ; d20+13=17 ; Tuesday July 6th, 2021 3:18:20 AM
"Master Rubalad we will help you however we can n' or course, explain how things work here in the plains! But for now we have a more pressing decision to make"... (Using BW 'guide' for +2 = Profession (Sailing):27)
"If we stay tied down there's a chance the ropes'll break, or the Maiden could get damaged! If we sail these winds, it'll be a real nasty challenge n' would take all hands probably"! He ponders, his hand stroking his chin. "Could we take the sails down and dig in? Maybe raise the soil like a protective bank"? (Knowledge Nature:17).
(Ref how tough is the ground? Is this a daft plan?)
Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 39/39 -- Aewen: AC 14 -- HP 16/16 d20+9=11 ; d20+5=15 ; Tuesday July 6th, 2021 9:11:43 AM "I agree, these winds will get much worse. Well, if these ropes do break we will be at the mercy of the wind, but being able to run with the wind sounds even worse. I've used all the skills I posses to set the ship deep in the grass and anchor her. I'm not sure what to do Haemir, you have the sailing experience. I leave this up to you."
Thorondir looks around at the ropes and anchors, obviously concerned.
Knowledge nature 11 Sailing check 15
Rurik Ironjaw (Robert) | AC 19 | CMD 19 | 48/48 HP | Tuesday July 6th, 2021 2:07:58 PM "If continuing means danger to the ship, I say we hunker down and wait for the storm to blow over. We are in no great rush, and I trust your judgements."
Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP:36/36 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 - CMD:15 Active Spells: Mage Armour d20=9 ; Tuesday July 6th, 2021 4:50:21 PM
Sol smiles at Ruby.
"Ruby eh? Good to meet you!"
As the winds pick up, Sol frowns, trying to stay strapped down, his lack of strength meaning he doesn't want to try to resist the wind normally.
"I believe the wind is going to get worse! What other countermeasures do we have?"
Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 39/39 -- Aewen: AC 14 -- HP 16/16 Tuesday July 6th, 2021 5:51:19 PM "The wind may cause the ropes to break, unless someone has a way to strengthen the ropes we may be in trouble trying to anchor in this wind. The tree is the strongest thing we have tied to, much stronger than the stakes at each corner of the Maiden. With the ropes being the weakest link, we need to consider our options, and quickly I think."
Thorondir wants to make sure that everyone understands the true danger. He doesn't have a way to strengthen the ropes.
Haemir (Rich) AC:13 - HP:47/47 - CMD:15 | Fand: AC:23/27 - HP:49/49 - CMD:24 Tuesday July 6th, 2021 7:06:54 PM
The elf listens to each person in turn, nodding and acknowleYdging and when all is said he steps up and stares into the dark storm. His hair whips behind him and the wind threatens to carry his words away, yet still he manages to be heard. "Some of you look at me like I know what I'm doing, but I'm just a professor who's survived by sheer dumb luck more than anything else"... For a while he continues brooding, then shrugs and strikes a pose indicative of a stubbornness, he is either insane or knows something no mortal can?!
"I can't explain it n' I don't expect you to understand but, there's a kind of insanity that comes with sailing. I mean who in their right mind faces the storms the deaths, n' just keeps on going. At least here we don't face waves that as high as..."! The last bit sounds like he's trying to convince himself. "Dunno about you, but I think I'd rather ride the storm than cower n' hope fer mercy. We hide n' pray .. Or we weave the threads of our own fate"! He looks from person to person. "Did you expect it to be easy"? He says with a resigned chuckle. "When we arrived here the plains tried to kill us every minute, At least now she's offering us a choice"!
If everyone's in he starts a quick basic training, allocating specific jobs and getting crew to show everyone that one role. If everyone knows one task he believes he can conduct an orchestra and maybe, just maybe everyone lives through the night in one peace. If not then Gargul will have a busy night recycling their souls. For morale purposes though he keeps that thought to himself.
Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 39/39 -- Aewen: AC 14 -- HP 16/16 Tuesday July 6th, 2021 8:34:49 PM ”Well we stayed long enough to rescue Ruby, or to have Ruby find us. It seems like anchoring was a good idea. Now let us ride the wind.”
Herbert Bramblerose (Bill Soucy) Tuesday July 6th, 2021 10:26:28 PM "I don't know what's going on, but I'll help any way I can, even if it means staying out of the way and holding on tight. Oh, bother, but this has turned into a blustery day!" OOC: ;)
Rubalad. (SteveK) | AC 24 | CMD 21 | 52 / 52 HP | Ruby d20=7 ; Wednesday July 7th, 2021 12:25:11 AM
Ruby listens to the owners of the Maiden above the winds howl, and nods to himself. Then he speaks up. “Make your own way and not let anyone else put you in a hole? I feel as you do, Haemir. Let’s ride the wind and make our own impact upon the Wold!”
With that, the short beast-folk begins helping by untying knots in ropes. …..
Ooc: not sure what skill or ability to use. 7+… Escape Artist to get out of bound ropes? 0 CMB to tie? 8 Survival? 15 Disable Device? 11
Haemir (Rich) AC:13 - HP:47/47 - CMD:15 | Fand: AC:23/27 - HP:49/49 - CMD:24 d20+20=27 ; Wednesday July 7th, 2021 1:11:09 AM
Like a madman he suggests people are lashed to rails or masts and he gives the Maiden over to the storm. On command the ropes are released.
Screaming above the wind he gives orders and tries his best to ride it out. Guiding crew and party to do the little jobs whilst he turns the wheel.
Sure lives are at risk, but if anyone looks closely in amidst the storm there is an elf who feels alive. In fact you could say its the most alive you've seen him ever. He might just be enjoying himself! The madman! ---
(Using a hero point up front (+8) - well done refs you're making a nice collection of mine, and his guide ability for (+2) with sailing (+10) he manages a Total of profession sailing (27)).
Journey back to New Rattledam (DM Cayzle) Wednesday July 7th, 2021 10:18:54 AM
The wind whips ever-higher, ever-faster, and you make the wise decision to ride it out rather than resist it. With a heroic effort, the Maiden sails before the storm, travelling faster than she has so far, and to where? We'll see.
Eventually the wind dies down, and the damage to the ship is minimal. A few Mending cantrips will suffice. At length you deem it safe to drop anchor, and the Maiden comes to a halt. What a wild ride!
Even Thomas (the NPC navigator) is impressed. "Piggies pillows," he says, a particularly dirty cuss, "how the rutt we made it through that I don't know. Shady props, my mates!"
Everybody, please make a DC15 fort save. If you save, you gain the fatigued condition; if you fail, you are exhausted.
What's next? Maybe some rest?
Haemir (Rich) AC:13 - HP:47/47 - CMD:15 | Fand: AC:23/27 - HP:49/49 - CMD:24 d20+7=9 ; d20+8=17 ; Wednesday July 7th, 2021 1:14:59 PM
When the wind dies down and his adrenaline slows Haemir slumps down (Fort:9), every muscle aches and he's exhausted. "I feel like I've been run over by an apple cart... Need some rest I think"! Reaching in his bag he pulls out a bottle of wine and he raises it as a toast. "You all did find jobs, you're hired"! He chugs some and passes the bottle around. He's asleep within seconds - before the next person has even drunk, back against a mast, snoring like a baby.
Fand (Fort:17) plods over and flops across his lap grunting. She's fatigued but stays alert (ish).
Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 39/39 -- Aewen: AC 14 -- HP 16/16 d20+5=11 ; d20+3=18 ; Wednesday July 7th, 2021 2:14:34 PM "Well that was an experience, I think I prefer the wind in my face as I fly with Aewen."
Thorondir fumbles for a small cloth and pulls it from his pouch. He opens it and 7 purplish-red berries fall out. He picks up one and eats it.
"These may help, at least they will get you fed. Help yourself."
Thorondir consumes a goodberry and then slumps down against the side rail and falls asleep.
Aewen, perches above and keeps a weary eye out.
Fort Thorondir 11 Fort Aewen 18
Rubalad. (SteveK) | AC 24 | CMD 21 | 52 / 52 HP | Ruby d20+8=17 ; d20+15=18 ; Wednesday July 7th, 2021 4:55:41 PM
Wind whipping through his fur, dark thunder and the creaking of the boat, Rubalad has to admit it was exciting!!
As the Maiden comes to a halt and the crew drop anchor, the two elves drop asleep. Though tired, Rubalad isn’t ready to drop his guard. ”i’ll watch the first hour or so”, he offers, and dismounts from the boat to do a scout in a 50’ circle around the Maiden.
…… Fort 17. Fatigued. Survival. 18. Looking for tracks and spoor
Fatigued. -2 Str and Dex. No run or charge.
Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP:36/36 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 - CMD:15 Active Spells: Mage Armour d20+4=5 ; d20+2=11 ; Wednesday July 7th, 2021 6:53:50 PM
Sol, after stressing out his poor fragile body during the storm, and helping repair this ship with his Magic, immediately drops into something soft and falls asleep for a short nap, his body totally exhausted, as does Corbin. They are asleep in moments.
Rurik Ironjaw (Robert) | AC 19 | CMD 19 | 48/48 HP | d20+9=23 ; Thursday July 8th, 2021 12:11:27 AM
Rurik wipes his brow, looking back at the rest of the party, who threw pragmatism aside for a terrifying and death defying victory. He marvels at the willingness to throw caution to the wind, and in a way, deep down, is ashamed of his own words of warning before.
"By my beard, those thunderclouds were intense!
Rurik shakes his head, running a hand through his hair
"It seems we're clear of the worst now, and I hope to never have to deal with such a storm again. You lot rest up, you've done well. I'll keep watch for now."
Rurik walks to the fore of the ship, and, sitting upon the bowsprit with his sword in his lap, begins to meditate.
Fort 23
Journey back to New Rattledam (DM Cayzle) d20+2=13 ; d20+2=12 ; Thursday July 8th, 2021 2:36:31 PM
A few hours later, around noon, most of the crew and party are resting, but Rurik and Rubalad are on watch. Both are fatigued. While you are on watch, two monsters try to sneak on board. They have a +2 on Stealth, which is really quite high considering their size. They roll a 13 and a 12.
Rurik and Rubalad, make a Perception check vs DC12 to avoid surprise.
Haemir is asleep (prone) on deck. Perception check vs DC22 to wake up. Fand is "alert-ish" and fatigued, DC17 to not be surprised.
Thorondir is asleep (prone) on deck. Perception check vs DC22 to wake up. Aewen has a "weary eye" open and is fatigued, DC15 to not be surprised.
Sol is asleep in a soft bunk below deck. Perception check vs DC27 to hear the monsters and wake up.
Herbert is asleep below deck too. Perception check vs DC27 to hear the monsters and wake up.
Sleepers, per the rules, an hour of sleep changes your exhaustion to fatigue. You need 8 hours to get rid of fatigue, so if you were fatigued, you still are.
Fatigued: A fatigued character can neither run nor charge and takes a -2 penalty to Strength and Dexterity. Doing anything that would normally cause fatigue causes the fatigued character to become exhausted. After 8 hours of complete rest, fatigued characters are no longer fatigued.
The two monsters are ginormous centipedes! One crawls up the anchor line and onto the ship. The other rears up and hoists half its body onto the ship; the other halfway on the line.
Next step: Roll perception checks. If you were already awake, you may make an attack as the monsters approach. If you were asleep, see if you wake up, and then take a move action please.
Note any ongoing or current buffs/effects you have up, please.
[OOC: I'm running this fight with no map. Below deck you have total cover and no line of sight. On deck everybody is in range of everybody else, so no map needed. If you are sleeping/prone on deck, you provoke an AoO standing up, per usual.]
Haemir (Rich) AC:13 - HP:47/47 - CMD:15 | Fand: AC:23/27 - HP:49/49 - CMD:24 Conditions: both Fatigued d20+8=9 ; Thursday July 8th, 2021 3:12:12 PM
Interesting fact about Haemir, he's not the most observant person you'll ever meet - he always seems somewhat distracted?! Like he's half somewhere-else. (Let's put it this way even if he rolled a nat 20 he still wouldn't make DC:22) he sleeps...
Fand (Perception:9 - rolling a nat '1'!!! I'm going with she just happened to drop off seconds before they did their creepy-crawly stuff over the edge).
Both stretch in unison dreaming.
Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 39/39 -- Aewen: AC 14 -- HP 16/16 d20+9=19 ; d20+10=17 ; Thursday July 8th, 2021 3:48:29 PM
Thorondir (Perception 19) has never been more tired, and he has fallen deeply asleep. The skittering sound does not awaken him. Aewen (Perception 17) however does not plan on letting her friend sleep so soundly without a watchful eye. The sound and movement alerts the eagle who looks down at her sleeping friend below her. She drops down with a scream and graps Thorondir with her talons. She hops in front of him with her wings spread out wide, screeching at the centipedes.
Now awaken, Thorondir staggers to his feet and searches out the cause of Aewen's actions.
Rubalad. (SteveK) AC/T/FF 23/12/20 CMD 20 HP 52/52 Ruby d20+15=16 ; d20+9=22 ; d20+8=18 ; d4+9=12 ; d2+8=9 ; Thursday July 8th, 2021 4:19:49 PM
Rubalad notices the two centipedes and gives a mighty shout. ”By my oath, you are under attack! AWAKE AND DEFEND!!”. Scimitar and shield come to hand!
Feeling sluggish, the small hero notes Rurik near the bow, and so leaves the monster crawling up the anchor chain to the dwarf, while he attacks the creature trying to come amidships.
Ruby puts some power behind his scimitar strike, and then he slams his spiked shield forward and back in an economical thrust that leaves no opportunity to attack while his defense is down.
…..
Perception. 16. (Really glad skills don’t have Nat 1 fail)
Move Action. Move to block Centipede from belowdecks
Standard Action Scimitar (power attack, Fatigued). AC 21 Dam 11 Spiked shield (improved shield bash, power attack, Fatigued ) AC 17. Dam 8
Fatigued. -2 Str and Dex. No run or charge.
Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP:36/36 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 - CMD:15 Active Spells: Mage Armour d20+10=17 ; d20+8=11 ; Thursday July 8th, 2021 5:46:15 PM
Sol remains contentedly asleep below decks, snuggled up and allowing his exhaustion to begin to leave his body.
Corbin also remains asleep, snuggled in bed with his master.
Rurik Ironjaw (Robert) | AC 19 | CMD 19 | 48/48 HP | d20+2=21 ; d20+12=24 ; d20+7=16 ; 2d4+6=10 ; 2d4+6=11 ; Thursday July 8th, 2021 10:14:03 PM
Rurik hears rustling in the grass, and looks over to see something serpentine cutting a path through the foliage. Scrambling to his feet, before he can shout anything the rearing forms of the gigantic bugs break the surface of the grass.
Perception: 21
"TO ARMS!!! TO ARMS!!! AWAKE, AWAKE, UP AXES AND BOWSTRINGS!!"
Without checking to see if any hear his call, Rurik charges unquestionably into combat with the nearest monstrosity, bringing his falchion to bear.
Falchion attack, 24 to hit, 10 dmg Second attack, 16 to hit, 11 dmg
(OOC I'm still new to pathfinder, so if I got my math wrong or didn't so something right pls let me know. I added BAB+STR mod+enchantment from sword for to hit modifier, which worked out to 12, with a -5 for my second attack. Damage is 2d4 on a falchion, +2 from the enchantment, and another 4 from my strength. No extra abilities or anything special added on these)
Rurik Ironjaw (Robert) | AC 19 | CMD 19 | 48/48 HP | Thursday July 8th, 2021 10:16:16 PM (OOC just realized I have another +1 to hit with falchion attacks from weapon focus feat, if it matters)
Herbert Bramblerose (Bill Soucy) Friday July 9th, 2021 11:19:24 AM "got to get all the blackberries! But we have to be careful of the snurglebursters.." Herbert mutters in his sleep.
Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 39/39 -- Aewen: AC 14 -- HP 16/16 Friday July 9th, 2021 5:07:50 PM
Upon standing, Thorondir feels a squish under his foot as several of the goodberries he spilled make purplish stains upon the deck. He rubs his eyes and opens them wide. "That is a big centipede Aewen, beware its bite."
Haemir (Rich) AC:13 - HP:47/47 - CMD:15 | Fand: AC:23/27 - HP:49/49 - CMD:24 Conditions: both Fatigued d20+11=13 ; Saturday July 10th, 2021 12:56:44 AM
"Huh.. What's goi"... There's enough racket going on now (correct me if I'm wrong) for Fand to wake up who in turn wakes Haemir. It takes him a few seconds to realise there are horrors on-board and his eyes bug out. Without standing he casts a spell (Concentration:13) defensively and fails.
Rubalad. (SteveK) AC/T/FF 23/12/20 CMD 20 HP 52/52 Ruby Saturday July 10th, 2021 7:39:25 AM
Ruby realizes there are sleepy spellcasters near the monsters, and they are vulnerable! The badger uses his previous movement to dance about, inviting the centipede’s AOOs so they can’t strike the standing wizard or witch.
Journey back to New Rattledam (DM Cayzle) d20+16=25 ; 3d6+7=19 ; d3=2 [AoO on Th] ; d20+12=22 ; 3d6+7=19 ; d3=1 [attack on Rur] ; d20+12=16 [attack on Rub fails] Saturday July 10th, 2021 7:52:41 AM
Ever vigilant even when fatigued, Rurik and Rubalad stand to face the monsters, giving their comrades a chance to wake up.
Rurik attacks Centipede One, slashing twice, penetrating once. The monster's chitin is tough! But Rurik manages a solid hit for 10 damage.
Rubalad attacks Centipede Two with shield and scimitar. The blade just sneaks past a joint in the monster's carapace, hitting for 11 damage.
No fears about these monsters heading belowdecks! Our heroes have managed to nab their attentions!
Thorondir's companion senses the danger and awakens its master. Thorondir stands up, drawing an attack of opportunity from Centipede One. It strikes with an extra +4 against the prone hero (AoOs happen before the event that provokes them). The monster hits AC25, and the vermin's poisoned mandibles hit hard. Thorondir, please take 19 damage and make a DC 19 Fort save for 1d3 (2, this time) Dex damage. You'll be doing the same every round for 6 rounds or until you make one save. The druid looks around and determines that at least there are only two of these monsters, they are giant vermin, and that they will indeed be a challenge to the party.
Both Haemir and his companion failed their checks to awaken for this surprise round. You may wake up now. You did not cast a spell. You are prone on the main deck. You may now act.
Belowdecks, Herbert and Sol have been sleeping, but now the sounds of combat waken both of them. You may now act. Recall that you are prone, so you have to take a move action to wake up. It will take another move action to come up on deck, should you so choose.
======
Centipede One bites at Rurik. It hits AC22, piercing Rurik's armor and inflicting 19 hp damage. Like Thorondir, please take also make a DC 19 Fort save for 1d3 (1, this time) Dex damage. You'll be doing the same every round for 6 rounds or until you make one save.
Centipede Two bites at Rubalad. It hits AC16, missing the small stout fellow outright.
======
Centipede One (fighting Rurik and Thorondir) (AC21) - 10 damage Centipede Two (fighting Rubalad) (AC21) - 11 damage
[OOC: Extra DM Note - Your DM truly does not want Ruby's sacrifice to be in vain, so let's assume that your attempt to provoke AoOs happens at the start of next round. Besides which, you made a full attack this round and do not have a move action left. DO you seek to draw AoOs from Centipede One (near Thorondir), Centipede 2 (near Haemir), or both, gods help you!]
Rubalad. (SteveK) AC/T/FF 29/18/26 CMD 26 HP 52/52 Ruby Saturday July 10th, 2021 9:26:16 AM
With Thorondir already standing, Ruby makes himself a target for Centipede 2, going fully defensive and waving his scimitar about. “Come on, you nasty beast! Don’t I look yummy! Come give me a bite, you milksop! I’ll smash you with a shinai into the living room rug!”
… Trying to draw Centipede 2’s AOO so Haemir can stand up.
Fully Defensive AC +6 Fatigued. -2 Str and Dex, no run or charge
Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 39/39 -- Aewen: AC 14 -- HP 16/16 d20+5=9 ; Saturday July 10th, 2021 6:48:47 PM
Thorondir is hit hard, but things need to change soon. Concentrating he assumes the form of an Air Elemental. Moving towards the nearest centipede he forms a Whirlwind
Aewen hops backwards away from Thorondir as he becomes an Air Elemental.
Fatigued. -2 Str and -2 Dex, no run or charge Poison -2 Dex Air Elemental form +2 Dex Dexterity total = 18 -2 Fatigued, -2 Poison, +2 Air Elemental form = 16
Haemir (Rich) AC:13 - HP:47/47 - CMD:15 | Fand: AC:23/27 - HP:49/49 - CMD:24 Conditions: both Fatigued d20+8=25 ; d6+4=5 ; d20+8=26 ; d3+4=7 ; d20+8=26 ; d3+4=5 ; d20+6=25 ; Monday July 12th, 2021 4:35:40 PM
Fand wakes and instinctively becomes a ball of frothing claws and teeth.
Including prone (-4) Attks: 21/22/22 for Dmg: 5/7/5. (AC:25 Vs attacks of opportunity).
From somewhere a female voice cries out: "Run Soldier". Reverberating around the plains it may (or may not) sound familiar to Sol?! Anyone cool-headed enough to be paying attention - it was the Rapke. ---
Meanwhile, fun fact No.2 Haemir doesn't wake up well. He sorta shouts: "agggh", looks at the creature for a second or two and then screams again "Ayyyyiii" then spotting the small Beastfolk he yells: "Don't dance around.. KILL IT RUBY"!
He stands and points at the nearest monster very defiantly: "You spongy, onion-eyed, foot-licking, flax-wench, I curse you to be as useless as a small worm" and casts: Bestow Curse. (Will DC:18 negates. SR:26. If successful it grants a –4 penalty on attack rolls, saves, ability checks, and skill checks).
"Everyone concentrate on one n' hit it hard"!
Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP:36/36 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 - CMD:15 Active Spells: Mage Armour Monday July 12th, 2021 4:42:50 PM
Sol awakens with a start, and gets up, hearing the sounds of battle.
"What on earth is going on up there?" he takes a moment to intone a few words of power and cast Mage Armour on himself.
Rurik Ironjaw (Robert) | AC 19 | CMD 19 | 45/48 HP | d20+9=11 ; 3d6=16 ; Monday July 12th, 2021 7:24:42 PM
Rurik staggers backwards, clutching his head in pain as blood drips from between his fingers. He feels the effects of blood loss slow his movements, and channels divine energy through his hand to help close the wound. Putting his hand back to his blade, he activates its innate magic, intricate runes glowing red hot as the weapon bursts into flame.
"You won't be dining on dwarf today, monster."
Glancing back at the rest of the group, he sees them focusing on the other bug.
"Drive back the beast! I can hold this creature here, at least for now."
(Fort Save 11 FAIL, swift action to use Lay on Hands on myself for 16 HP, standard action to activate flaming property of the falchion)
Journey back to New Rattledam (DM Cayzle) d20+12=26 ; d20=9 ; d3=3 ; d3=3 ; d20+12=19 ; 3d6+7=24 ; d20+8=28 ; d20+8=23 ; 3d6+7=19 ; 3d6+7=14 ; d3=1 ; Tuesday July 13th, 2021 12:18:04 AM
Rubalad heroically tries to draw the monster's attention, hoping it will strike at him instead of at Haemir. He succeeds, and the monster attacks him ... hitting AC26 -- not good enough, and the nimble badger-kin dodges away!
Thorondir changes into an air elemental. That's a standard action. He would like to change into a whirlwind, but becoming a whirlwind is a separate standard action to activate a supernatural ability. He'll have to wait until next round to become a whirlwind.
Note: as Thorondir ponders the whirlwind option, he realizes that they are too big to pick up and too big to be damaged by the whirlwind. The whirlwind, however, would impose a -2 on attacks and a -4 on dexterity.
Thorondir is fatigued and poisoned (make a second DC19 Fort save this round, take 3 more dex damage if you fail).
Haemir's friend Fand attacks and connects thrice for 17 damage to Centipede Two.
Haemir himself casts Bestow Curse on Centipede Two. The creature fails its save!
Belowdecks, Sol stands and casts mage armor on himself.
Rurik fails his poison save (make a second DC19 Fort save this round, take 3 more dex damage if you fail). He cures himself and activates his flaming blade.
Herbert has woken and stood up too, but seems a bit disoriented.
======
Centipede One bites at Rurik. It hits AC19, exactly what it needs to hit. Rurik suffers 24 damage, but at least since he is already poisoned, he does not have to worry about even more poison.
Centipede Two bites at Fand! It hits (at -4) vs AC28, a natural 20 and a crit threat. It confirms vs AC23. Fand is AC23 (unless you can explain the 23/27 in your header?). So if the crit is not confirmed, Fand takes 19 damage; if the crit is confirmed, the companion takes 19+14=33 damage. AND make a DC19 Fort save this round, take 1 point of dex damage if you fail.
======
Centipede One (fighting Rurik and Thorondir) (AC21) - 10 damage Centipede Two (fighting Rubalad, Fand) (AC21) - 28 damage plus cursed -4 on attacks, saves, checks
Rubalad. (SteveK) AC/T/FF 23/13/20 CMD 20 HP 52/52 Ruby d20+9=11 ; d20+4=17 ; d20+8=28 ; d20+8=20 ; d20+5=25 ; d20+5=24 ; d2+4=6 ; d4+2=6 ; d4+2=6 ; Tuesday July 13th, 2021 1:27:19 AM
Ruby hisses as the great mandibles snap on thin air, and then again on the… well… whatever it is that follows Haemir about. Strong and poisonous! The elf himself, though, is safe, and it seems, not just thinking about his own actions. The badger-kin growls deep in his throat. ”Elves have a funny way of saying ‘thank you Rubalad for not letting me get bitten!’ And I’ll be sure to comment the next time you don’t need spell-casting advice!”
The dwarf on the other hand, nobly blocks the first monster while the others concentrate on the second. Ruby would have done the same, but Rurik suggested it first. That means Ruby’s job is to end his fight as fast as possible.
The Tracker stops being defensive and slides in for the attack, not holding back anything. Vermin ichor drips from his muzzle as he snarls at the centipede! …..
Scimitar 11 miss Scimitar 17 miss Shield Bash nat20! Crit! Not confirmed. 5 damage (with Fatigue) Bite! Nat20! Crit! Confirmed! 6+6= 12 damage (with Fatigue)
Fatigued. -2 Str and Dex. No run or charge.
Rurik Ironjaw (Robert) | AC 19 (17) | CMD 19 | 33/48 HP | d20+9=12 ; d20+12=28 ; d20+7=19 ; 2d4+14=19 ; 2d4+14=21 ; d6=3 ; d6=5 ; 3d6=12 ; Tuesday July 13th, 2021 1:43:10 AM
Rurik stumbles as he hefts his blade, the healing he had given himself not enough to cleanse the poison from his system, or to stop the bleeding. Blinking away the wooziness, he is brought harshly back to reality as the centipede bites him again, taking advantage of his lowered guard to latch on to his shoulder.
Gritting his teeth, he lashes out with his falchion once more, blade biting deep into the chitin covered monstrosity. Kicking the beast away from himself, he once again holds his hand up to his wound, and channels healing energy into himself once more.
(Fort Save 12 FAIL Power Attack with falchion two handed, 28 to hit on first, 19 slashing+3 fire, 19 to hit on second, 21 slashing +5 fire. Another lay on hands on self for 12 HP. Dex is currently 6)
(OOC: Cmon I have a +9 to my Fort saves but I can't roll above a 2-3 XD)
Haemir (Rich) AC:13/13/10 - HP:41/41 - CMD:15 (FATIGUED) | Fand: AC:20- HP:16/49 (POISONED/FATIGUED) d20+8=16 ; d20+8=25 ; d6+4=10 ; d20+11=13 ; Tuesday July 13th, 2021 3:58:50 PM
Fand reels (Fort:16 fails the save + crit confirmed!) then rolls to her feet snarling. If she can use spring attack to get up and bite: (bite:25 for dmg:10) and then spring clear (without provoking) that's her plan. (If this isn't possible she has AC:24 Vs attacks of opportunity and attacks with 21 (prone) for same damage). ---
Haemir is honestly bricking it at this point, it takes all his strength to simply raise an eyebrow at Ruby's outburst. He wracks his brain - 90% of his spells are charm and mind spells and he'd already learnt that insectoids were immune. (Using Coalesce Spells he locks out detect poison and dancing lights for the day and casts defensively - concentration check:13 phew just). A ghost like Spectral Hand appears next to him.
Haemir (Rich) AC:13/13/10 - HP:41/41 - CMD:15 (FATIGUED) | Fand: AC:20- HP:16/49 (POISONED/FATIGUED) Tuesday July 13th, 2021 4:00:05 PM
Wait it doesn't appear oops. (rolled a 2)
Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 39/39 -- Aewen: AC 14 -- HP 16/16 d20+5=16 ; d4+1=2 ; d20+3=20 ; d20+3=7 ; d20+3=23 ; d4=4 ; d20+3=9 ; d20+3=23 ; d20+3=12 ; d4=2 ; d20+3=20 ; d20+3=14 ; d20+3=19 ; Tuesday July 13th, 2021 5:11:20 PM
Thorondir decides that since the centipede is too large, he will instead rise up in the air 20 feet and cast Summon Nature's Ally III, summoning 2 eagles to attack the centipede. (probably next round they appear? I will roll their attacks now though just in case.) Aewen Hit AC 20, 7, 23 Damage Talon 4 Eagle 1 Hit AC 9, 23, 12 Damage Talon 2 Eagle 2 Hit AC 20, 14, 19
Fatigued. -2 Str and -2 Dex, no run or charge Poison -2 Dex, -3 Dex Air Elemental form +2 Dex Dexterity total = 18 -2 Fatigued, -5 Poison, +2 Air Elemental form = 13
Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 20/39 -- Aewen: AC 14 -- HP 16/16 Tuesday July 13th, 2021 5:31:49 PM
(Update header for HP, I had done it previously I thought but I was back to full HP)
Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP:36/36 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 - CMD:15 Active Spells: Mage Armour 3d4+3=10 ; Tuesday July 13th, 2021 6:59:51 PM
Sol then rushes upstairs as fast as his fatigued body will carry him, and looking at possible targets. Spotting the two centipedes he unleashes a quick and efficient Magic Missile on them, he focusses all of the missiles on one of the Centipedes (if he can tell which one is more injured that one, if not, whichever is closest to his most vulnerable allies)
10 Damage
Herbert Bramblerose (Bill Soucy) 3d6=9 ; Tuesday July 13th, 2021 11:05:48 PM Herbert rushes to Fand and lays on hands with the Mercy Fatigued "Oh no! You're hurt! Here!
Herbert heals 9 points to Fand and removes Fatigue.
Journey back to New Rattledam (DM Cayzle) d20+8=17 3d6(1+2+2)+7=12 d3=3 d20+12=24 3d6(1+4+6)+7=18 d20+8=18 Tuesday July 13th, 2021 11:55:36 PM
Striving to finish this fight, Rubalad bites and bashes Centipede Two, inflicting 17 damage with the two attacks. He also waves his blade in an attempt to distract the monster.
Rurik, fighting through poison and fatigue, hits once on two swings, with 22 damage by blade and flame. The dwarf is beginning to sway from the effect of the poison!
Haemir's friend Fand attacks with a bite for 10 damage and then springs back below deck. [OOC: In this abstract, mapless combat, everybody is in reach of each other above deck. The only way to get out of reach is to head off the ship or go below deck. I'm giving Fand the benefit of the doubt and letting the creature retreat below deck with a spring attack. Because I am the nice one.]
Haemir himself concentrates and tries a spectral hand, but alas, it does not work.
Thorondir's friend Aewen misses (they are AC21, sorry). CORRECTION: hits for 5.
Thorondir wants to fly up out of the centipedes' reach (move action) and then cast a full round casting time summons. OOPS too much to do in one round. The kindly DM lets him just cast the spell with no move (technically, a five ft step would be ok). Luckily, his whirlwind form is immune to AoOs. His summoned eagles will arrive next round.
Sol arrives on the scene and tries to cast a magic missile. Alas, the centipedes have a 20 ft reach, and as your evil DM has mentioned, everyone on deck is in reach of a centipede. Sol's casting provokes an AoO from cursed Centipede Two. It hits AC17, biting Sol for 12 damage. Also, Sol must make a DC19 Fort save this round, take 3 points of dex damage if you fail. ALSO, make a concentration check vs DC22 to successfully cast the spell through the pain. So I need a concentration check and a fort save from Sol to finish this round, please.
Herbert, below deck with Fand, removes the creature's fatigue and heals it for 9 points of curing.
======
Centipede One is content to go mano-a-mano with the woozy dwarf. It snaps its mandibles, hitting AC24 and piercing Rurik for 18 damage.
Cursed Centipede Two attacks Rubalad, hitting AC18. That misses the small but fierce warrior.
======
POISON STATUS! - please confirm and check in case I have lost track.
By my reckoning, not one poison save has been made this fight. Poisoned folks are Rurik, Thorondir, Fand, and maybe Sol. All four owe me a poison save next round, and please do roll your own 1d3 dex damage if you fail. Note that you do not want your dex to drop to zero, and that this is a good reason to have hoarded hero points. IF you have made a poison save, please bold it so I do not miss it.
=====
Centipede One (fighting Rurik and Thorondir) (AC21) - 32 damage Centipede Two (fighting Rubalad, Fand, Sol) (AC21) - 50 damage (plus maybe 10 hp magic missile damage) plus cursed -4 on attacks, saves, checks
Edit: Aewen hits Centipede Two for 5 damage, fixed above.
Rubalad. (SteveK) AC/T/FF 23/13/20 CMD 20 HP 52/52 Ruby d20+9=20 ; d20+4=7 ; d20+8=17 ; d20+5=13 ; Wednesday July 14th, 2021 12:57:21 PM
Ruby snarls and attacks, momentarily forgetting all finesse. And that becomes a problem, because the little guy can’t touch the well-armored monster!
Leftover centipede liquid drips from his muzzle as he snarls at the centipede! …..
Scimitar 20 miss Scimitar 7 miss Shield Bash 17 miss Bite. 13 miss
Fatigued. -2 Str and Dex. No run or charge.
Rurik Ironjaw (Robert) | AC 19 (17) | CMD 19 | 22/48 HP | d20+11=27 ; d20+12=30 ; d20+7=14 ; d20+12=20 ; 2d4+13=16 ; d6=5 ; 3d6=7 ; Wednesday July 14th, 2021 3:39:21 PM
Rurik grits his teeth as he continues his back and forth with the giant centipede, steeling himself against it's bite. With a mighty roar he surges forward, continuing to buy time, and safety, for the rest of those in danger.
(Fort Save 27 PASS, Activating power attack. First attack unconfirmed crit, 30 to hit. 21 damage total. Second attack 14, whiff. Swift action to heal myself with my last lay on hands, hoping I won't have to use it on anyone else. 7 points total healed. Move action to detect evil, seeing if the centipede is evil.)
(OOC: Hoping I'm doing all this right this is a lot to keep track of and I'm still pretty new to pf ;-;)
Haemir (Rich) AC:13/13/10 - HP:41/41 - CMD:15 (FATIGUED) | Fand: AC:20- HP:16/49 (POISONED - made 1 Sv) d20+8=24 ; d20+8=28 ; d20+8=17 ; d6+4=5 ; d6+9=12 ; d6+11=16 ; Wednesday July 14th, 2021 3:47:50 PM
Fand half scrambled - half knocked ends up a bit bedraggled and fuzzy below deck. Everything is spinning slightly. (Fort:24 - this was her second round of poison, she lost 1 pt the 1st round). - Fand makes her poison save.
Somehow she manages to stay on her feet and then Herbert steps up and heals her. She looks up, shakes her head (probably covering him in some saliva) and grins at him. She has a somewhat disconcerting grin, it's very teethy and she looks like a half dino-dog!? But it's clearly obvious that clout to her and maybe the healing? Woke her up. It's like a light came on in her head. "Why thank you dearie". Her voice sounds just like a woman's voice, perhaps an elderly, wise, nanny type. "Herbert Bramblerose you really are a true blessing". She turns to leave but looks back and bows her head. Then in a flash she's up the stairs and leaping at Centipede Two. Using spring attack she can travel 50 ft / round. She bounds up the stairs leaps at the centipede - bites it (Nat '20' = 28, but 17 fails to confirm. For 5 dmg). She literally springs into and off and back down below deck. (Acrobatics: 12). She's panting and lining herself up again... ---
Haemir (Concentration:16) fails to cast defensively again and reflects on his life's choices as he edges 5 ft towards the steps, cartoon creeping like he's trying not to be noticed...
Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 20/39 -- Aewen: AC 14 -- HP 16/16 d20+5=8 ; d3=3 ; d20+3=23 ; d20+3=15 ; d20+3=18 ; d20+3=8 ; d20+3=22 ; d20+3=14 ; d20+3=4 ; d20+3=14 ; d20+3=18 ; d4=4 ; d4=3 ; d3=3 ; Wednesday July 14th, 2021 4:05:11 PM
The eagles come in to the fight. Aewen hits with a bite hit AC 23 for 4 HP damage Summoned eagle 1 hit with talon AC 22 for 3 HP damage Summoned eagle 2 misses
Thorondir casts Summon Nature's Ally II and calls 3 more eagles to come to his aid (next round).
Thorondir Failed Fort Save -3 Dex Fatigued. -2 Str and -2 Dex, no run or charge Poison -2 Dex, -3 Dex Air Elemental form +2 Dex Dexterity total = 18 -2 Fatigued, -8 Poison, +2 Air Elemental form = 10
Journey back to New Rattledam (DM Cayzle) Thursday July 15th, 2021 12:36:06 AM
[OOC: Once you make one poison save you stop taking damage and are cured.]
Rubalad attacks four times but misses.
Rurik fights off the poison, swings twice as a full round action, and heals himself as a swift action. Detecting evil is a move action -- no time for that this round. He does hit once, a huge blow for 21 damage.
Fand dashes up, bites for 5, and dashes back below deck. Haemir fails to cast defensively, loses a spell slot, and backs away five ft.
Aewen and two summoned eagles attack, inflicting 7 damage to Centipede One. Thorondir casts another summons.
Herbert and Sol hold their attacks.
======
Centipede One rears back with an insectile scream, and backs away, off the boat and down the anchor chain.
Cursed Centipede Two follows.
Both are using the withdraw action.
When you rush to the side to see them, they are both in the grass and out of line of sight.
Combat is over.
Rubalad and Rurik, each please accept a hero point.
======
POISON STATUS! - Who is still poisoned?
=====
Centipede One (fighting Rurik and Thorondir) (AC21) - 60 damage Centipede Two (fighting Rubalad, Fand, Sol) (AC21) - 55 damage (plus maybe 10 hp magic missile damage) plus cursed -4 on attacks, saves, checks
Rubalad. (SteveK) AC/T/FF 23/13/20 CMD 20 HP 52/52 Ruby d20+15=33 ; d20+15=25 ; Thursday July 15th, 2021 12:59:10 AM
Rubalad follows his foe, but only to the rail edge; not fool enough to follow a retreating but still fighting foe. He watches closely as they disappear into the overgrown grasses, trying to note if they were wild animals or pets of some villain.
Soon enough, he remembers where he is and what he has done. He wipes his weapons and muzzle, and gargles a mouthful of water before spitting it over the side. Tired, he keeps a lookout in silent watch while the people of the boat sort out the after-battle stuff.
…… Perception 33 to note the centipedes Perception 25 to keep watch
Fatigued. -2 Str and Dex. No run or charge.
Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP:36/36 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 - CMD:15 Active Spells: Mage Armour d20+4=8 ; d20+12=29 ; d20+6=22 ; Thursday July 15th, 2021 2:12:00 AM
Fort save - failed Concentration - Passed Second fort Save - 20! Passed
Sol let's out a howl of pain as the Centipede bites him. However, his spell manages to happen all the same.
He doesn't manage to do anything about the centipedes escaping, focussing instead on trying not to let the poison kill him.
"They have retreated... and now I feel worse than I did before... and I was exhausted..."
Sol wobbles on his feet due to both the poison and his remaining fatigue.
Rurik Ironjaw (Robert) | AC 19 (17) | CMD 19 | 22/48 HP | Thursday July 15th, 2021 12:39:08 PM
Rurik leans against the rails, panting heavily as he wipes weat and blood from his brow. Looking back, he notices the bad shape some of the rest of the party is in, particularly Thorondir. Walking over to the still-elemental figure, he says
"I do not have much healing ability left in me today, but I can heal some. I can remove the effects of the poison and your fatigue, since you seem hardest hit. Unfortunately I can only do this once right now."
He looks around at the rest of the group.
"If only I had enough to help them all... He sighs, shaking his head
When Thorondir becomes humanoid again, Rurik casts lesser restoration on him.
Haemir (Rich) AC:13/13/10 - HP:41/41 - CMD:15 (FATIGUED) | Fand: AC:20- HP:25/49 (POISONED - made 1 Sv) d4=3 ; d4=3 ; d4=1 ; d4=3 ; 3d8+6=21 ; 3d8+6=20 ; Thursday July 15th, 2021 3:11:26 PM
"That was amazing! Never seen anything like it"! Haemir relaxes when the monsters flee, then he grabs Sol and casts Delay Poison (halts all progression for 6 hours giving the party some time to work on it - and/or he can cast it again later giving us till tomorrow).
Then he moves to Rurik as he slumps casting Lesser Restoration (restoring 3 Dex). (OOC: TBH I am not sure how bad people are poisoned how about)?
Restoration Lesser(1): 3 pts (Rurik) Restoration Lesser(2): 3 pts (shout who wants) Restoration Lesser(3): 1 pt (shout who wants) Restoration Lesser(4): 3 pts (shout who wants - won't use if not needed).
Then follows up with: Cure Serious: 21 healing (shout who wants). Cure Serious: 20 healing (shout who wants).
He will sort Fand in the morning. ---
(Haemir Coalesce Spells: 2x 1st level slots to cast a 2nd: Lesser Restoration and then casts 3 naturally. Then casts 2x CSW).
Rurik Ironjaw (Robert) | AC 19 (17) | CMD 19 | 22/48 HP | Thursday July 15th, 2021 7:15:49 PM (OOC I could certainly use the healing, if you don't mind. I'm out for the day.)
Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 20/39 -- Aewen: AC 14 -- HP 16/16 d20+9=10 ; d20+9=26 ; d20+9=22 ; d20+9=18 ; d20+9=24 ; d20+3=9 ; d20+3=23 ; d20+3=17 ; d20+3=12 ; d20+3=11 ; d20+3=7 ; d20+3=13 ; d20+3=12 ; d20+3=10 ; d20+3=10 ; d20+3=22 ; d20+3=19 ; d20+3=11 ; d20+3=19 ; d20+3=16 ; d4=1 ; d20+5=18 ; d3=2 ; Thursday July 15th, 2021 9:48:00 PM
Thorondir settles back to the deck of the Maiden and changes back into his elven self.
Casting speak with animals he speaks to the summoned eagles. Search for them and attack them if they are found
Perception for the 5 summoned eagles (10, 26, 22, 18, 24) Attacks if they are found (only 1 hit AC 22 damage 1)
”I could use some healing if you are offering.”
Fort save 18 -2 dex Fatigued. -2 Str and -2 Dex, no run or charge Poison -2 Dex, -3 Dex Air Elemental form +2 Dex Dexterity total = 18 -2 Fatigued, -10 Poison, = 6
Journey back to New Rattledam (DM Cayzle) Thursday July 15th, 2021 11:19:18 PM
[OOC: I'll retcon that extra ten hp magic missile damage, Sol. But please try to post every day!]
Rubalad rushes to the side of the Maiden to see a little rustling at the place the anchor chain enters the grass. Then all is still.
Sol wobbles as the poison hits him, but then he fights it off.
Though sorely wounded, Rurik saves his last healing for Thorondir. Each Lesser Restore takes a while to cast.
Haemir steps up with a metric crap-ton of healing.
Thorondir commands his eagles to attack, but they have no target in line of sight.
As the party heals, do you think you will head into the grass to finish off the centipedes? Or let them go?
Rubalad. (SteveK) AC/T/FF 23/13/20 CMD 20 HP 52/52 Ruby Friday July 16th, 2021 12:23:55 AM
Rubalad keeps watch and off to himself, but the talk on the roof of the boat pulls him back. ”I noticed in introductions that you have no cleric with you. I’m not magical, but always keep some light cure potions when tracking a quarry, and I still have them since …”
The badger-kin trails off, but does give Rurik and Thorondir each 2 potions of cure light wounds.
That action leads to another, and Ruby then meets the gray elf. “Never seen? So this doesn’t happen every day? Should we find out why you were attacked then? . His nose quivers as if on the scent of a trail. He is willing to put down dangerous animals, but doesn’t know anything about where he has landed and so looks to the team to make the decision.
…..
Fatigued. -2 Str and Dex. No run or charge.
Haemir (Rich) AC:13/13/10 - HP:41/41 - CMD:15 (FATIGUED) | Fand: AC:20- HP:25/49 d8+1=2 ; d8+1=5 ; d20+16=27 ; d20+16=31 ; d4=4 ; d8+5=7 ; d8+5=9 ; d8+5=9 ; d8+5=10 ; Friday July 16th, 2021 2:59:58 PM
"Master Rurik rest here if you please"? He mage hands and a small bench over for the dwarf and sets about tending his wounds, as he does he speaks to Ruby: "Oh I see what you... No. I wasn't amazed by the monsters, although they were terrifying! I was stunned by the bravery and tenacity of both yourself Master Rubalad - and Master Rurik here! The way you both fought was the stuff legends are made of. Oh n' forgive me if I seemed somewhat judgmental regarding your dancing skills earlier, I mean fight like that and people will be dancing to songs about you! Oh n' for the record I wasn't judging your skills" he holds up a hand he wants to say 'it was just the timing' but his healing distracts him, His tongue held between his lips as he concentrates. "That's what I meant by 'never seen anything like it'"! He shakes in head - colour him impressed!
When Ruby takes out the potions he takes out a wand, "A generous offer but fear ye not I have this one covered". ---
By the time he has finished speaking both Rurik and Thorondir are both fully healed, unfatigued, and recovered from the poison. He moves over to Sol and heals him and then checks on Ruby again. "Forgive me but you don't seem hurt at all? Incredible". He looks him over and turns him around just to make sure there isn't a fang hanging out of his back and he hasn't noticed. If he discovers a wound he he will heal, otherwise he shakes his head in disbelief and smiles.
Lastly he tends Fand stroking her as he goes. She leans into him. He realises he hasn't answered Ruby's question about hunting it but he waits to see if the eagles had any joy and what everyone says. Personally though he's still tired. ---
The Book-keeping ([i]Rurik: 1x Cure Serious (20), 2x CLW from CLW wand (2+5) requires 2x UMD Vs DC:20 (rolled: 27 & 31) + 2x Lsr Restoration 5 Dex also removes fatigue). (Thorondir: 1x Cure Serious (21), 3x Lsr Restoration = 9 Dex recovered). (Sol: 2x CLW (7+9) using 4 cantrips locked out for the day with Coalesce Spells) (Fand: 2x CLW (7+9) 4 cantrips locked out for the day with Coalesce Spells).
Later Fand strolls over to Herbert, thigh bumps him and winks conspiratorially.
Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 39/39 -- Aewen: AC 14 -- HP 16/16 Friday July 16th, 2021 4:53:02 PM ”Thanks all for the healing. I feel much better now. We can go after these centipedes if you want, though we are all a bit depleted. I prefer to fight in the grass but unfortunately I think these centipedes do too. I’ll do whatever the group decides.”
Journey back to New Rattledam (DM Cayzle) Saturday July 17th, 2021 10:35:38 AM
Rubalad keeps watch and comments on the group's lack of a cleric. Should the party go after the centipedes?
Haemir smiles, compliments his friends, and demonstrates that he has the group's healing needs covered.
Fand, in her way, thanks Herbert for healing.
Thorondir is grateful for healing and unsure about hunting the centipedes.
Looks like it is time to make a decision.
Rubalad. (SteveK) AC/T/FF 23/13/20 CMD 20 HP 52/52 Ruby d20+18=28 ; Saturday July 17th, 2021 4:56:09 PM
Rubalad recovers his potions (he only has two), and quirks his head at Haemir’s plethora of information. The badger-kin isn’t quite sure if he got all that, but the elf seemed to be complimenting him and has many healing magics. ” um… thank you, and I apologize for my outburst. It was not civilized.”. He has to think a minute before continuing.
”I am uninjured, thank you, but we should put those animals down. They will be doubly dangerous for the next travelers because they are hurt.”
Ruby scrambles over the side, and takes a look around at the trail left by the centipedes. “When everyone is restored and recovered, come on down!”
……
Tracking. (Survival). 28
Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 39/39 -- Aewen: AC 14 -- HP 16/16 d20+10=26 ; d20+10=30 ; Saturday July 17th, 2021 7:25:46 PM ”Okay, let’s go get these abominations. I’ll fly above as an eagle with Aewen, if I see them I’ll cast entangle. If I can’t see them from above, someone shout out their location and I’ll cast in that area. Then I’ll summon an earth elemental to help us fight them.”
Perception Thorondir 26 Perception Aewen 30
Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP:36/36 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 - CMD:15 Active Spells: Mage Armour Monday July 19th, 2021 5:47:55 PM
"I would suggest not chasing after them, however I do agree with Ruby, as it I would not want anyone else to suffer a worse fate because we did not do what was required of us."
He follows along waiting for the creatures to be spotted.
"Would any of our new companions like more strength to help them at all?"
Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 39/39 -- Aewen: AC 14 -- HP 16/16 Monday July 19th, 2021 5:48:49 PM "On second thought I will be an air elemental and cast my spells from above if possible."
When they are ready to go and finished discussing plans, Thorondir will wildshape into an air elemental and follow Ruby from above.
Haemir (Rich) AC:13/13/10 - HP:41/41 - CMD:15 (FATIGUED) | Fand: AC:20- HP:44/49 Monday July 19th, 2021 6:59:04 PM
Haemir gets out his xbow and loads it. He looks ready.
Herbert Bramblerose (Bill Soucy) Monday July 19th, 2021 10:11:20 PM Herbert draws his shortbow and nocks an arrow, following the rest of the party. "I know those critters tried to munch on us, but there was no malice. And they are hurt...it would be a mercy to put them out of their misery, as well as protecting other passers by from a nasty bite!"
Rurik Ironjaw (Robert) | AC 19 | CMD 19 | 48/48 HP | Monday July 19th, 2021 10:18:59 PM
Rurik graciously accepts the healing, but only after checking to make sure others were not hurt worse. Lost in thought as he gets his wounds tended by Haemir, he speaks up when the party talks of going after them.
"If we are truly planning on tracking them down, then we need a better plan. What happened in that ambush was...unpleasant to say the least, and if they had pressed on, or one of us been less vigilant, it very nearly could have ended much worse. Perhaps instead of trying to track them down in terrain we are unfamiliar with, we should speak to the locals about these creatures and see if we could set an ambush of our own. Not only would we be ready for them, we could prepare ourselves for the combat before it began. I do not know about the rest of you, but I have several abilities to aide me in the heat of battle, but since it started so suddenly just now I thought it better to focus on the melee."
Sighing as the healing finishes, he stands up and brushes off some of the muck left on his armor from the fight.
"It may not be a bad idea to rest, as well. I doubt those things have the wisdom to set proper plans of their own, or call reinforcements we wouldn't find by tracking them anyway. We are worn and weary not only from the ambush just now but the climbing challenge as well. These plains are not heavily travelled as far as I am aware, so I see little need to rush headlong into a combat while beaten and bloody. I say we follow them to end the threat they pose, yes, but we rest, we plan, and we fight when it is good to."
(HP and Dex are back up to full)
Journey back to New Rattledam (DM Cayzle) Monday July 19th, 2021 11:22:23 PM
Rubalad invites his new friends to go a-hunting. He hops down. Since he is only just a little guy after all, the "ground" does not buckle under him, but he feels it give a bit. His tracking indicates that the monsters went down the chain, and then deeper into the grass.
Thorondir declares his intent to fly above with his friend as an elemental and an eagle. [OOC: Note: do whirlwind uses per day stack? Something to think about? Maybe no?] From up there he sees nothing deep in the grasses.
Sol is more cautious, and as Ruby relates that the ground is ... tricky? ... Sold descends cautiously and to the side.
Haemir stands on the deck with his crossbow and watches.
Herbert readies his short bow. Does he descend to the grass or stay on deck?
Rurik still on deck, urges the party not to underestimate these foes. Should the party heal up?
Ruby and Sol are on the "ground" ... Thorondir flying above ... Rurik, Herbert, and Haemir still on the ship.
Please make sure your hp total, conditions, and spells active are all noted!
Journey back to New Rattledam (DM Cayzle) Tuesday July 20th, 2021 9:00:43 AM
OOC: Kelly, your email is bouncing back. Are you getting the daily DM emails? I just sent one 20 minutes ago.
Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 39/39 -- Aewen: AC 14 -- HP 16/16 Tuesday July 20th, 2021 10:59:33 AM
OOC: I haven't been able to log into email for a few days, I guess they finally deactivated my work email since I retired. kelly(dot)bringhurst at gmail will work.
Rubalad (SteveK) AC/T/FF 23/13/20 CMD 20 HP 52/52 Ruby Tuesday July 20th, 2021 11:27:47 AM
Ruby reports what he has found. "Spongy? I wasn't wandering in the storm but a couple hours, but does your ground often feel like walking on rotten wood? Have to say my expertise is more in cities and tracking humans."
"As it is, it looks like your boat crashed right near the centipede's lair, because there are no tracks on the surface, like they dug into the ground."
"I think we should get back on your boat and sail." Ruby isn't leaving until Sol climbs back up first.
Haemir (Rich) AC:13/13/10 - HP:41/41 - CMD:15 (FATIGUED) | Fand: AC:20- HP:44/49 Tuesday July 20th, 2021 4:12:43 PM
Haemir breaths a sigh of relief. "I'm still worn out n' I don't have many spells left. Let's not interrupt a den of em eh"? Slimy. Yuk.
"Did we even finish the first watch"? He smiles but can't stop himself from yawning.
Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP:36/36 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 - CMD:15 Active Spells: Mage Armour Tuesday July 20th, 2021 4:40:24 PM
Sol nods.
"If you insist... but I suspect you are correct, I have no idea about the ground I am afraid it is definitely not my area of expertise."
He smiles self deprecatingly and then climbs back onto the ship.
Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 39/39 -- Aewen: AC 14 -- HP 16/16 Tuesday July 20th, 2021 8:09:55 PM
Thorondir returns to the boat and hovers above it as they plan to set sail. Once they are underway he will land and resume his normal form.
Herbert Bramblerose (Bill Soucy) Tuesday July 20th, 2021 11:44:44 PM Herbert looks over the edge of the ship, being vigilant in case the scritters climb up the chain again...and thankful that they don't have to be tromping around down there.
He also turns his eyes skywards from time to time. Never know what's going to happen. While moving around on decks, he will have his shortbow at the ready, unless actively doing "sailing" stuff.
Haemir (Rich) AC:13/13/10 - HP:41/41 - CMD:15 (FATIGUED) | Fand: AC:20- HP:44/49 Wednesday July 21st, 2021 8:07:43 AM
Haemir watches the hovering bird for a while. "Thorondir, are you waiting on something? The Maiden isn't going anywhere with no sargrass under it n' no-one has rested yet"!
Journey back to New Rattledam (DM Cayzle) Wednesday July 21st, 2021 8:42:34 AM
It is now early afternoon.
The consensus is that to proceed now would be too dangerous. Is it wise to rest here near the monsters? You get ready to set sail. As you weigh anchor, you note something odd.
In the tumult of the storm you had not noticed. But with Herbert watching the chain, he notes that the anchor takes a while to come up. It tugs up through grasses. Eventually it appears out of the grass. But it is obvious that it had sunk well below the ground level.
Time to leave?
Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 39/39 -- Aewen: AC 14 -- HP 16/16 Wednesday July 21st, 2021 12:23:48 PM
Thorondir drops down to the ship and changes back into his elven self.
"We can go whenever you want, I didn't diminish the grasses here. However, something is going on with the ground below us. We may be above a nest. I could explore as an earth elemental if we are keen to know."
Rubalad (SteveK) AC/T/FF 23/13/20 CMD 20 HP 52/52 Ruby Wednesday July 21st, 2021 2:12:00 PM
Ruby scrambles up back on top of the boat and the team there. He listens to Thorondir, but shakes his head. ”I have no right to urge anything, but I think your friends Rurik and Herbert are right. You should move your boat.”
He helps haul the anchor and is ready to get to civilization.
DM Shane. Wednesday July 21st, 2021 10:29:55 PM
The Grass is silent but for the gently sussursus of the wind, the Centipedes seem to have absconded into the deeper grass. does the party try and pursue or are they ready to get back on the road..er..grass...?
Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP:36/36 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 - CMD:15 Active Spells: Mage Armour Thursday July 22nd, 2021 3:36:02 AM
Sol thinks
"I do not feel comfortable leaving the creatures to wander and do harm to others, we are seasoned adventurers and we struggled with them, normal small folk would have no chance. We should try to figure out what is going on here. It just depends if our injured party members are able to continue, I am still tired but have quite a reserve of magical power remaining."
Haemir (Rich) AC:13/13/10 - HP:41/41 - CMD:15 (FATIGUED) | Fand: AC:20- HP:44/49 Thursday July 22nd, 2021 9:24:21 AM
"We've always operated by a majority rules here n' it seems Rurik, Ruby n' Thorondir are ready to go. I'm in no real condition to fight so I'm with them. Let's go before more of em come. We can prestidigitate the grass another colour so we can find This place again. Maybe even tomorrow if that's how you feel Sol? Being realistic when the toughest ones here are suggesting a withdraw"..!I
Haemir notes the grass isn't short here after all. Gads he must be tired.
Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 39/39 -- Aewen: AC 14 -- HP 16/16 Thursday July 22nd, 2021 1:33:47 PM "I'm ready to go, does anyone have a way to mark this spot?
Thorondir helps to prepare the ship to move.
Herbert Bramblerose (Bill Soucy) Thursday July 22nd, 2021 11:50:09 PM "Away we go then!" says Herbert
Rubalad (SteveK) AC/T/FF 23/13/20 CMD 20 HP 52/52 Ruby Friday July 23rd, 2021 4:09:07 PM
Rubalad nods, storing away the information of mutual decisions and that Herbert and himself are both considered equals in the decisions. Good to know.
DM Shane. Friday July 23rd, 2021 5:04:36 PM
you leave the area behind. The clouds that have obscured the sky sink lower seeming to stretch from horizon to horizon and so thick that the sun is obscured totally. The weather like this continues for several days. on the second day, you see something interesting. There is apparently a variety of grass that is tailor-made for just this sort of occurrence. as you come upon it the stalks have risen to the point that they have penetrated the clouds, several hundred feet above the Sargrass.
on your present course you should pass within a 1/4 mile of one of the stalks with others arrayed around within a few square miles. since it's probably the tallest living thing anyone has ever seen there is quite a bit of interest in it among the crew. do you alter course and take a look or keep sailing? it's a minor detour at best.
Rurik Ironjaw (Robert) | AC 19 | CMD 19 | 48/48 HP | Friday July 23rd, 2021 11:06:12 PM
Rurik keeps a wary eye on the tall blades of grass, surprised at their height. He hadn't seen anything so tall since he left the mountains, and certainly nothing alive so high. The oddness of it puts him slightly on edge, and he scans the horizon for any unforeseen and unknown dangers.
Haemir (Rich) AC:13/13/10 - HP:41/41 - CMD:15 | Fand: AC:20- HP:49/49 Saturday July 24th, 2021 2:28:43 AM
"Shall we take a look? I've never seen grass that tall"!
Rubalad (SteveK) AC/T/FF 23/13/20 CMD 20 HP 52/52 Ruby Saturday July 24th, 2021 3:04:30 AM
Rubalad uses the sunny days of sailing to learn more of these people, their boat, and the land. And to have them get used to him in return.
The badger-kin gives a more complete story: how he is from Amberdale, a town near Plateau City, the capital city of the kingdom of New Elennia. He, his parents, and sibs are Twilight Rangers, urban specialists and thief catchers. The same night he met the Maiden Heroes, he was chasing a quarry in Plateau City near the Star Mages tower, and set off a trap. Suddenly, he was in the dark, in a storm, surrounded by tall grass! He wandered a couple hours until literally bumping into the Maiden and Thorondir’s Spike Growth.
So the very tall Grasses are seen, and Ruby is both amazed at the grass and at the heroes reactions. “So, you are lost too? Why don’t we climb one and see what we can see?”
Herbert Bramblerose (Bill Soucy) Saturday July 24th, 2021 6:48:44 AM "That's interesting! Image the stories we can tell in town about what we find! I think we should explore it. I'll volunteer to climb, too!" says an eager [Herbert[/b], dancing a little jig of excitement.
Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 39/39 -- Aewen: AC 14 -- HP 16/16 Saturday July 24th, 2021 10:40:46 AM "Of course we need to examine these tall grasses, and see what lies at the top. I think instead of climbing I'll fly with Aewen as an eagle. Haemir, would you like to become a bird and fly with us?"
Haemir (Rich) AC:13/13/10 - HP:41/41 - CMD:15 | Fand: AC:20- HP:49/49 Sunday July 25th, 2021 11:32:00 AM
After listening to Ruby: "Master Rubald of Amberdale, what if I told you there's a way you can pass a message back to your family, boss .. or anyone for that matter"?! Of his own story he confesses to having been a sailor for over three decades, but it ended when the captain tried to sail the 'hump'! Then after entering the plains he tells how he fell asleep and woke up two months later with grey marble skin, vines for hair and it gets weird when he mentions being in some sort of cocoon/seed?! You probably gather he isn't a surface-drow in any conventional way. He is taking it pretty well though - it seems.
Haemir has a real natural patience about him when it comes to teaching, happy to show things over and over and give generously of his time (to help with sailing or any other skill).
At Thorondir's question he smiles. "Oh fer sure"! But then the smile is replaced by sadness as he looks at Fand. The Rapke looks back the speaks with a human woman's voice: "Don't worry, I don't miss flying". The elf's face beams "Ah you can talk"... He scratches behind her ear and surveys the tall grass. As he does he watches Herbert's little dance and smiles even more.
As the maiden halts he mutters an incantation spreads his hands - assuming the form of an eagle he takes to the sky, circles once and starts to fly towards the tall-grass. ---
(Beast shape:1 - duration 6 mins).
Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 39/39 -- Aewen: AC 14 -- HP 16/16 Sunday July 25th, 2021 3:00:12 PM
Thorondir wild shapes into an eagle and joins Aewen and Haimer in flying up to explore the tops of the grasses.
Wildshape duration 6 hours
Rubalad (SteveK) AC/T/FF 23/13/20 CMD 20 HP 52/52 Ruby Monday July 26th, 2021 11:24:27 AM
Rubalad again is unsure of much of the information that Haemir unloads on him, and isn’t even quite sure of where to start. Hump? Cocoon? Sailing?
No, the Tracker fixes on something the elf has said before; something Ruby isn’t comfortable with at all. The badger-kin tries a polite smile with mouth closed. ” Please, don’t call me ‘master’. Just Ruby or Rubalad.”
Ruby will wait until the boat is closer to see if there are handy climbing holds.
DM Shane. Monday July 26th, 2021 2:31:02 PM
The Maiden heaves to port towards the gigantic stalk of grass. As you get closer several things become apparent. it looks similar to bamboo, but only as a dogwood tree looks similar to a redwood. within 100 yards or so, you begin to smell water, something some of you never thought you could smell before you came to the Sargrass.
Also, you could almost swear this thing is growing before your eyes. The perspective change as you got closer is screwing up your sense of size but, but you could almost swear it's slightly bigger now than when you first saw it.
Once within 25 yards of the grass you see the water running down channels, quite like the channels in bamboo, but larger and there are multiple channels per segment. Each channel is offset from the other and there seems to be a raised lip around each segment that channels the water to the next segment. They get larger as the segments go down. as does the volume of water that each segment is handling.
The smell of water is wonderful. and the surface of the grass glistens with moisture as the water runs down its surface.
once at the grass, down below you can see that the bottom of the grass has a large channel around it that acts as a sort of trough. it seems like every creature in the area is around the base of this grass, all jostling and fighting for position, struggling to drink from the largess that the grass provides.
Like every watering hole, the predators are around as well. a rake of Rapkeys have taken a large bison-type animal, that you don't have a name for, while its herd continues to drink from the grass. Wildcats some quite striking in coloration have taken their share from the smaller creatures drinking around the grass. it's a naturalist's dream come true. creatures you've never seen before, come and go from the grass. and with a start, you realize that there are hundreds of these stalks of grass around.
The sargrass teems with life, now unmasked from its daily struggle for survival with the architect of life now flowing so freely and in such volume.
Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP:36/36 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 - CMD:15 Active Spells: Mage Armour Monday July 26th, 2021 7:04:35 PM
Sol stands in awe of what he's seeing, then after a few moments of losing himself, grabs his journal and begins writing in it, trying to make as many notes as he can.
Herbert Bramblerose (Bill Soucy) Monday July 26th, 2021 11:17:54 PM "Just look at them all!"Herbert exclaims, pointing his clawed fingers at the marvelous panoply of wildlife before them. "Wouldja look at that!?! That grass is huge! He cranes his neck back, shielding his eyes with a paw. "I wonder if any legendary creatures life up there? Maybe a giant in his castle?Herbert pretends he's a giant, stomping around and 'roaring' in a 'booming' voice.
Rurik Ironjaw (Robert) | AC 19 | CMD 19 | 48/48 HP | Tuesday July 27th, 2021 12:19:24 AM
Rurik's neck cranes back as he looks up into the sky, peering up to see the tops of the stalks.
"Legendary creatures? Up there? I suppose we're more like to find some sort of gigantic bird than anything else."
He sighs, and looks around at the animals here.
"I'm still new to the plains, I don't really recognize any of these. But I can tell a killer when I see one. I suggest we stay far away from them, unless any of them need to be put down for the good of the settlements. I'm no druid, so I'm a bit out of my element here."
He stomps his foot on a stony outcrop for emphasis.
"So I'll defer to your expertise."
Rubalad (SteveK) AC/T/FF 23/13/20 CMD 20 HP 52/52 Ruby Tuesday July 27th, 2021 4:49:29 AM
Rubalad smiles without teeth at Herbert, but has to nod at Rurik’s assessment. ”Animals are unpredictable, best have as little as possible to do with the dumb beasts.”
For the plethora of water, Ruby isn’t surprised, it’s less than the lake by his home and he doesn’t know enough to realize how strange it is on the Sargrass. So he is more interested in the stalks raised high and the natives reaction.
He waves at the stalks and water. ”How is this unusual or dangerous? And how do we get to the base of a stalk to climb up if surrounded by dangerous animals and water?”. The badger-kin himself has no ideas.
Haemir (Rich) AC:13/13/10 - HP:41/41 - CMD:15 | Fand: AC:20- HP:49/49 Tuesday July 27th, 2021 7:49:20 AM
Fand gives Ruby a sidewards glance at the comment about dumb beasts, and then continues staring at the scene before them.
Unable to believe his eyes, Haemir flies up to see out what's on top, then returns to the group and changes back to his elven form, casting detect magic he maintains concentration. "I'm not sure what to make of this, incredible! Maybe it's the restorationist druids"? He scratches his head and grins at Herbert stomping around. Then looks to see if there is room to sail through.
Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 39/39 -- Aewen: AC 14 -- HP 16/16 d20+10=15 ; d20+10=25 ; Tuesday July 27th, 2021 9:12:26 AM
Flying up to the top of the stalks hidden in the clouds, Thorondir tries to assess what is happening. It must be condensation from the clouds running down the stalk, but there must be a large area of collecting for this much water to run. He and Aewen look carefully to see if other creatures are on the upper portions of the stalk.
He speaks to Aewen, asking her to tell him of anything she might see.
Perception Thorondir 15 Perception Aewen 25
DM Shane. d100=58 ; Tuesday July 27th, 2021 8:09:28 PM ThorondirArwen and Haemir rise as birds up to the low hangining clouds, and then through them. up on top the sun still shines and it looks for all the world like snow-covered hills but for the heat. Where the grass penetrates the clouds there is but a single stalk sticking through and it keeps disappearing as the clouds undulate past it. but in the valleys of the clouds streaks of green can be seen near the stalk. it looks like the clouds are covering something more of the grass than meets the eye from above.
but as far as fantastical beasts, the abodes of cloud giants, or mystical lands, there is not a one to be seen. it's is beautiful though.
down on the ship some of the sailors take to replenishing the ship's water stores, and they even produce a bar of soap from somewhere and begin taking a bath of sorts with water from the tree. they have taken a planed off piece of board and are using it to divert some water streaming down one of the gullets or crevices to splash on the deck of the ship. out of respect for Lil', they crew sets up a partition to avoid any impropriety. Donald rounds up Lucas and Padre after their baths and has them start stoning and swabbing the deck, seems now that water is plentiful it's time to get the ship in ship shape and bristol fashion. with Haemire and Thorondir up in the clouds there is no one to give Rurik any advice on what animals to cull or keep.
Herbert Bramblerose (Bill Soucy) Tuesday July 27th, 2021 11:05:34 PM "It sounds wonderful up there! Oh to be able to fly! But I would be a funny bird!" Herbert laughs at himself. "I agree we should stay away from the animals. Never want to get between animals and their food or water." He ponders as he looks at the grass tower... "Would this be of help to the people in the town? There must be a way to help them without harming the nature here." and then he gets quiet, as he is not good with words, hoping that his emotion and tone tells his heart, even if he fumbles the words.
Rubalad (SteveK) AC/T/FF 23/13/20 CMD 20 HP 52/52 Ruby d20+15=32 ; d20+5=15 ; d20+5=24 ; Wednesday July 28th, 2021 1:10:12 AM
Rubalad sees the non-adventurers on the boat doing repair and maintenance things. Strange. Stones? But he keeps his thoughts to himself.
Herbert and Rurik seem to be looking for ways to make good on what the team has found here, and Ruby honestly didn’t think of that at all. ”I’m sharp eyed, but you see further, I’m thinking”, he tells the two Paladins. ”I look at this and only see obstacles, but you see opportunities.”
And saying so, a problem occurs to the Tracker: with everyone occupied, no one is on watch. The badger-kin goes to a likely place on the boat to keep watch and think about what the water and stalks mean. ….
Perception 32 Know Nature 15 Know Geography 24
Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 39/39 -- Aewen: AC 14 -- HP 16/16 d20+10=14 ; d20+10=28 ; d20+9=15 ; Wednesday July 28th, 2021 6:30:42 PM
Thorondir and Aewen fly down towards the streaks of horizontal green they see coming from the stalks into the clouds. Hoping to see how the plant collects water, they fly down and will land on one of the "branches" if possible.
"Tell me Aewen, what do you see?" he asks in the eagle language.
Rurik Ironjaw (Robert) | AC 19 | CMD 19 | 48/48 HP | Wednesday July 28th, 2021 11:16:11 PM
Rurik sits down on the rock, thinking.
"This seems....unnatural. Again I am no expert in either the study of nature, nor the arcane, but is it possible some errant druid or hedge wizard created this place? Or perhaps some strange wandering magic? If so, then it could be...unpredictable."
DM Shane. Wednesday July 28th, 2021 11:16:53 PM
there may indeed be an opportunity here. but how to take advantage of it? that is the question.
the Birds fly towards the flash of green they see in the clouds and discover that there are branches jutting from the stalk out into the clouds. following one you see that it bifurcates and branches out many times forming almost a mat that seems to be continuously growing. water seems to condense upon the mat and get ferried by some as yet unknown mechanism to the main grass stalk. why it condenses and how it moves are mysteries.
yes, stoning. the stones are abrasive and scrub away dings and scratches in the deck, they also compress the wood fibers and make the surface harder. its' some fairly labor-intensive work but with plenty of water to wash away the dust it's not so bad.
it's hard to overstate the effect the water is having not just among the animals, but among the crew and the party. you feel hydrated, joyous, and relaxed. it's almost festive
only Thomas the Ships pilot and 3rd in line for command that looks a bit concerned..
Haemir (Rich) AC:13/13/10 - HP:41/41 - CMD:15 | Fand: AC:20- HP:49/49 Wednesday July 28th, 2021 11:49:46 PM
"One day Herbert you will fly"! He moves out of the way of deck swabbing and cleaning. Two wonders in one day. "Definately strange. Dunno what to make of it".
Rubalad (SteveK) AC/T/FF 23/13/20 CMD 20 HP 52/52 Ruby d20+15=27 ; d20+19=29 ; Thursday July 29th, 2021 12:15:17 AM
Rubalad keeps watch, occasionally looking for Thorondir and his pet bird or observing the crew. That’s how he spots Thomas anyways. The badger-kin hails the human. ”Thomas, I’m not trusting this but I don’t know why. You seem to have something more specific to worry about. What is it?”
While keeping watch, Ruby unwinds his sling and lays in a lead weight. Just in case.
…….
Perception. 27 Sense Motive 29 on Thomas
CDM Jerry [OOC post] Thursday July 29th, 2021 12:59:15 PM
ATTN Kelly! I sent an email to you this morning and it bounced. It returned saying that the address was not to be found or that it was unable to receive mail. Please email me before your next post and let me know what the issue is sir. :) That will also check that I have the right address for you on our email list.
All players must have a reachable email address, for the obvious reasons. ;)
Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP:36/36 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 - CMD:15 Active Spells: Mage Armour Thursday July 29th, 2021 6:51:27 PM
Sol watches the merriment, and moves over to Thomas, seeing is uncertainty, and so does not partake of the water.
"What seems to be bothering you?"
Rurik Ironjaw (Robert) | AC 19 | CMD 19 | 48/48 HP | Thursday July 29th, 2021 9:36:15 PM "I don't know about him, but it seems too nice to me. Everything we have seen out on these plains has been voracious and deadly. for something so....pristine to be here, it strikes me as off."
DM Shane. Friday July 30th, 2021 1:06:55 AM
Thomas pulls out his Pilots log. and points to some numbers and some notes he has taken. he has a neat hand. the notes are clear and the numbers are in good order.
We've been under this cloud cover for a while now. I've not been able to take readings. I can keep on latitude but unless I can shoot the stars or see the sun for a day from horizon to horizon, I cannot fix longitude. basically what I'm saying is that I do not know where we are exactly. as things stand right now we could easily miss the next stop by as much as 50 miles. I was thinking that this cloud cover would move on in a day or so. no big deal. but it's been a week now. the longer this keeps on and the more we move the less certain I am of where we are.
with his explanation you notice the missing entries in his log.
Rubalad (SteveK) AC/T/FF 23/13/20 CMD 20 HP 52/52 Ruby Friday July 30th, 2021 2:13:06 PM
Rubalad frowns and thinks. It’s gonna take a while so it’s probably good nothing critical is happening.
Eventually, the badger-kin lifts his head. “So… you are lost, too? And until you can clear the clouds, you won’t be able to learn? And there is a lot of water here, and in my home of Amberdale, there is a lot of water and a lot of fog. Fog like clouds.”
“So, if the animals go crazy like this all over, especially since things seem to be growing, it could really hurt your Grass Sir Plains. So, to save your land and to get not-lost, we need to figure out what is going on and how to stop it. Yes?”
Know Nature (take 20). 25
Haemir (Rich) AC:13/13/10 - HP:41/41 - CMD:15 | Fand: AC:20- HP:49/49 Friday July 30th, 2021 6:39:06 PM
Fand walks up to Thomas and Rubalad and sits, her head around Ruby's height, back straight then she pants and flops down. The air is cooler here and there is water everywhere, yet the Rapke appears overheated. When the crew bring any buckets of water near her - she shy's away.
Haemir is putting his goggles on as he approaches Thomas: "By Gargul's beard, why would you hide such a thing Thomas? ... Never mind man, the sun's right there". He points at a specific part of the sky. "There maybe something up there. I can only assume bird form for a few minutes n' it took me most of that to find the weird bit... There's an area above the clouds that may hold the answers" and with that he shares everything he saw in detail.
(Shane does anything ping - 'det magic' here?)
Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 39/39 -- Aewen: AC 14 -- HP 16/16 Friday July 30th, 2021 9:47:50 PM
“I can point you to north, if I do that and we move a distance and do it again it should help you get a bearing.”
Thorondir looks at the animals gathering for the water and to hunt.
“I miss spending time with the creatures of the Sargrass, I may go spend time with them soon.”
Haemir (Rich) AC:13/13/10 - HP:41/41 - CMD:15 | Fand: AC:20- HP:49/49 Monday August 2nd, 2021 2:01:11 PM
"Not for too long I hope Thorondir? You'll be missed"!
DM Shane. Monday August 2nd, 2021 6:23:08 PM
Thomas grimaces.
finding latitude and longitude arent' as easy as merely knowing generally where the sun is. and I've a compass I know which way is north. I have to be able to use my sextant to shoot the sun or the stars and I good idea of what time it is. I've been keeping my hour's glass turned so I know the time but unless I can shoot against the horizon I can't place Longitude. I can point north, but where am I on the north-south line? I can't know that until I can shoot it. and I can't shoot it until the freaking clouds move on. we can wait here or try and sail on but if my guesswork is off even a little bit we will be miles off our course. I wasn't hiding it. Losing a day or so is common when sailing, it's just that this has went on longer than I'm comfortable with and I thought I needed to let someone know.
as far as the Detect Magic is concerned nothing comes out as out of the ordinary.
DM note: Fun fact. Prior to the invention of reliable clocks ships pilots kept a book with notes on every single thing they could garner from a section of ocean, on a daily basis. it also had the information they could get from other pilots who had traveled to route before. they used this information to guesstimate their longitude, it was not uncommon for ships to miss their routes by miles and have to sail back towards their destination. Pacific islanders (tongans, hawiallans. etc) used what were called Star Maps. they would sail at night mostly and follow a certain start until it dipped below the horizon then another and another until they reached their destination.
Rurik Ironjaw (Robert) | AC 19 | CMD 19 | 48/48 HP | Monday August 2nd, 2021 7:06:00 PM
Rurik frowns. "That makes our situation worse. Unusually bad weather, strange plants, the animals acting oddly.....something's amiss here. And it seems like those plants are at the root of it all."
Thorondir (KellyB) -- AC 18/14/14 -- HP: 39/39 -- Aewen: AC 14 -- HP 16/16 Monday August 2nd, 2021 10:37:43 PM "I'll miss you too Haemir, but you will need to carry on without me I'm afraid."
Thorondir surveys the animals from atop the Maiden. Casting speak with animals, he tells Aewen she is free to follow him or to leave and seek her own kind.
"You know Thomas, being lost only matters if you care where you are. If you don't know where you are going, any path will take you there. I think I will take this path. Farewell all, the Maiden is safely made and crewed, you no longer need me as your escort."
Seeing the wildcats below, he changes into one and leaps from the side of the Maiden to the grasses below. Seeking the largest one, he casts charm animal on it and introduces himself, asking to travel with them for a while. Looking back at the crew of the ship, he flicks his tail and then takes part in the hunt with the other cats.
OOC: Thanks all, I leave tomorrow for time on the mountain outside of cell range. I'll be gone more than home for a couple of months so I am saying farewell. I had a blast, sorry to leave you all. You need to find yourself another druid!
Herbert Bramblerose (Bill Soucy) Monday August 2nd, 2021 11:26:33 PM Herbert rushes to the ship's rail, waving his paw furiously...fighting back tears, "G'bye Thorondir! Be well and stay safe! Come back soon!"
Rubalad (SteveK) AC/T/FF 23/13/20 CMD 20 HP 52/52 Ruby Tuesday August 3rd, 2021 12:17:25 AM
Rubalad looks at Haemir and Herbert before also waving ”You will be missed. Come back soon!”. The Tracker didn’t know Thorondir long, but he seemed a good sort.
Turning his attention to the clouds and water, Ruby tries to understand. He can barely figure out that clouds equals little chance at finding a town. Rurik’s comment about the strangeness is hurting things firms his resolve. ”If this is so, I think we should form an expedition to see if there is a cause we can fix before moving on. Who is with me?”
Ruby hop over the side to await the others.
Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP:36/36 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 - CMD:15 Active Spells: Mage Armour Tuesday August 3rd, 2021 1:49:20 AM
Sol rushes to the side of the ship to see Thorondir go. A sad, dark look on his face.
"I have had so many friends leave... it is always a sad time."
He goes back to Thomas.
"So we do not know where we are, and since the are no true maps of the Sargrass we cannot estimate where we are based on landmarks... how many days are we off course? Is it possible to try to figure out how far off course we maybe? I know little of sailing but I would have thought with some time and effort it would be possible to understand all routes we could have taken..."
He pauses for a moment.
"No that would be useless without something to compare it to. Do you actually need to see the sun all day, or just where it rises and sets? I could prepare fly tomorrow and allow you or myself, or any one else to fly up hopefully above the clouds both at day break and when the sun sets?"
Haemir (Rich) AC:13/13/10 - HP:41/41 - CMD:15 | Fand: AC:20- HP:49/49 d20+15=20 ; Tuesday August 3rd, 2021 11:51:53 AM
Haemir listens to Thorondir and can only agree about the lost comment, then watches over the edge as the druid approaches the Wildcats and smiles, partially sad, but also happy for the druid who seems to make friends wherever he goes. "Farewell friend, till we meet again" he says quietly.
He sighs and turns towards Ruby. "What's the plan, not too sure I want to roam around on the ground looking for a clue, with all the beasts wondering around"? ---
(Ref Does it look like something may have been at the top of one stalk in particular?) (Giving himself a +2 BW 'guide' ability, tries Knowledge Nature: 20)
([i]Ref Does it look like something may have been at the top of one stalk in particular?)
DM Shane. d100=55 Tuesday August 3rd, 2021 11:54:51 PM
The wildcats of this place are not solitary hunters like the one you are used to. They hunt in packs, it seems, and with the leader of this pride charmed, Thorondir is immediately accepted as one of the pride.
DM Shane: Farewell and safe travels Kelly, you brought a unique flavor to this group and a strong sword arm as well. You will be missed, but we look forward to having you back one day.
it's one thing to lose a companion through death, but it's another thing to lose one from wanderlust. I suppose it is the nature of druids, but the ship is quiet as you watch the ocelot that is your friend slink off into the grass.
is this tall water-wicking grass unnatural? There is so much strange in the Sargrass, who is to say? one thing is for certain, the water is being put to good use by the creatures of this land.
Thomas seeing someone who is curious about his craft is happy to explain. after he bids his goodbyes to Thorondir.
It's not that I have to see sunrise and sunset, but if I can see sunrise and sunset I can figure time much better than just seeing the sun. See we know when the sun will rise each day, it varies as much as an hour throughout the year. days are shorter in the winter months longer in the summer, but we've had that for so long we know it. I've kept my hourglass, but I know that there is a margin of error that has accumulated over the last week. I can eliminate the majority of that error once I can see the sunrise. the sun will break the horizon at 6:13 tomorrow. with the clouds I cannot be sure of when it does, so I can't eliminate the error. going above the cloud layer gets us closer to the sun, which effectively moves us towards the equator, if I knew how high we were I could account for that, provided we had data for that particular method of shooting the sun. which I don't. .
Thomas looks a little chagrined at that admission, but then cocks his head to the side and looks thoughtful. You know it does not help us right now, but when the clouds do part and I can fix our position, figuring out that offset could be really useful. If we could figure out how high the clouds were, then we could have the offset ready for the next time this happens. I don't know how useful it will be for other ships unless they have a method of getting folk up above the clouds, but more the more you know the better off you are.
Ruby is on the ground, luckily the Rapkey's seem to be full of bison and arent' looking for any snacks at the moment. Ruby you just took a 15ft fall, roll DC 15 acrobatics check to avoid the first 1d6 points of falling damage and convert the second 1d6 points of falling damage into non-lethal damage. alternately I will allow you to roll a DC17 check against whatever skill you think would work best if you decide to change your mind and grab the side of the boat before you fall 15ft to the ground surrounded by apex predators (dex, acrobatics, slight of hand, climb.)
Rubalad (SteveK) AC/T/FF 23/13/20 CMD 20 HP 52/52 Ruby d20+15=20 ; d20+5=8 ; d20+5=6 ; Wednesday August 4th, 2021 12:24:16 AM
Rubalad circles the boat, observing the ground and where the rope-things-that-hold-the-boat-still are grounded. He shakes his head, he doesn’t even know if they are weights is hooks! The badger is in such a strange environment, he doesn’t know where to start learning, but maybe the names of boat-things is a good place to start…
…… Perception 20 Know Nature 8 Know Geography. 6
Ooc: hopefully this is getting the low rolls out of my system
Haemir (Rich) AC:13/13/10 - HP:41/41 - CMD:15 | Fand: AC:20- HP:49/49 Wednesday August 4th, 2021 8:11:35 AM
Having known Haemir for a while - two flaws become apparent: he's not the most perceptive person and this matches his lack of understanding others as well. He clearly missed Thomas' dilemma and had not picked up on how lost Ruby is (other than geographically). (OOC he has poor sense motive and perception). So it may take Ruby literally telling him before he adopts another attitude, at present he's oblivious and convinced all is well with the beastfolk. Ruby's superior sense motive would probably reveal this.
"Ok I think Ruby is right but I'm not eager to walk through a forest of beasts n' monsters searching for bread crumbs. We need a clear plan n' place to start. Down there just looks like fight after fight at present"! Haemir is open to suggestions.
(OOC: on the issue of what to do and where to go, may I please draw the refs attention to my questions (ironically duplicated) at the end of my last post. Haemir really doesn't want to walk around in search of clues or fight his way through multiple packs. He is trying to ascertain if one particular stalk looks like a place too start. If necessary he will reconnoitre the stalk again - assuming bird form (for 6 minutes) and using his Remote Viewing (Sp): Clairvoyance at will as SLA: 640' range for 6 rds/day - if landing up top is risky).
Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP:36/36 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 - CMD:15 Active Spells: Mage Armour Wednesday August 4th, 2021 6:55:59 PM
Sol just watches what the rest of the party are doing, and the other sailors.
Rurik Ironjaw (Robert) | AC 19 | CMD 19 | 48/48 HP | Thursday August 5th, 2021 12:50:55 AM
Rurik bids Thorondir a solemn farewell, and watches as he leaves with the other wildcats. As Thomas speaks of flying above the clouds, Rurik gets an idea, squinting up at the sky, wondering aloud.
"How much rope do we have on board? From what I've seen, its a not inconsiderable amount. Is it feasible to mark the rope every so often, and carry it up when you fly up to measure the height? If we don't have enough well....."
Rurik gestures to the grass
"We have the means to make more. We could also use the Longstalks themselves, since they pierce the cloud cover. We measure out a specific amount of rope, then fly up it and mark the height every so often, flipping the rope end over end."
He sighs, and gazes wistfully at the ground, longing to be beneath it once more. The vast openness he opened his awareness to when trying to puzzle out a solution to measuring out the height above the clouds has left him feeling distinctly uncomfortable. Dwarves were not meant for such endeavors, not so high off the ground.
DM Shane. d20+5=12 ; d6=4 ; d6=1 ; d100=68 ; Thursday August 5th, 2021 1:20:40 AM
it very rarely rains in the Sargrass. The Sargrass is a place of strange creatures, mutations and strong evolution. Noting about this seems unnatural, there is nothing about the Super Humongous gargantuan ubrer bamboo that speaks of evil magic, hidden treasure, or anything else nefarious.
at the top of the stalk was a mat of vinelike growths extending form the top of the bamboo that seemed to be catching water and somehow ferrying it to the main trunk. that is all that was up there I am afraid.
Ruby falls the 15' down to the floor of the Sargrass, perhaps thinking that the ground was closer than it seemed he lands hard and takes 5 points of damage.
While the "Maiden" often uses an anchor which looks suspiciously like a grapnel to arrest forward momentum, in this case they tied off to the big bamboo.
The pack of Rapkey still seem content to laze about around the body of the bison that they just had for dinner.
Haemir (Rich) AC:13/13/10 - HP:41/41 - CMD:15 | Fand: AC:20- HP:49/49 Thursday August 5th, 2021 8:52:12 AM
"I can't see much we can do here other than carry on to Rattledam"?!
Haemir is out of ideas.
Rubalad (SteveK) AC/T/FF 23/13/20 CMD 20 HP 47/52 Ruby d20+15=27 ; d20+15=20 ; Thursday August 5th, 2021 10:10:38 AM
Rubalad grumbles to himself. ”Lesson number one”, he chides. Still, he can’t see anything out of the ordinary, not yet knowing what IS ordinary in this land of endless tall grasses.
The Tracker takes his time walking around and under the boat, noting if there are rungs or steps on the curved wooden walls of the boat. ”Uh, need a way to get back on top?”, he calls.
Eventually, he gets back on the boat, and learns what the team has been doing. ”So you have master craftsmen that you are taking to your town? But Thomas can’t get the boat to the town without seeing the sun? Looks like we need to look for the sun then. WhaT direction was the wind coming from for the storm that pushed us off track? So let’s backtrack until we can see where we are?”
…..
Survival 27 (auto success) to know the direction the storm wind was coming from Survival 20. (Auto success) to know where north is now.
Points to the way back.
Haemir (Rich) AC:13/13/10 - HP:41/41 - CMD:15 | Fand: AC:20- HP:49/49 d8+5=9 ; Thursday August 5th, 2021 10:30:04 AM
Hemir lowers the rope ladder and heals Ruby (CLW for 9 points) when the beastfolk is back on board.
"There is one master and an apprentice weaver I believe down below. They tend to keep to themselves, not sure they are overly happy that we outclimbed their team"? He goes down below to check on them, then if everyone is happy - gives the order to set sail. Between Ruby's excellent directions and his own knowledge of where the sun is - hopefully it's a start.
Haemir makes a point of keeping in touch with Thomas to ascertain what is needed each day and will assist if possible with scouting above the clouds if necessary from here on in.
Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP:36/36 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 - CMD:15 Active Spells: Mage Armour Thursday August 5th, 2021 6:58:09 PM
Sol nods at Haemir's suggestion.
"Yes I think moving onto Rattledam would be the wisest course. So how can we solve the sun problem? As I said I can offer Fly as an option so that Thomas can see the sun but I'd fear it'd not be long enough."
Rurik Ironjaw (Robert) | AC 19 | CMD 19 | 48/48 HP | Thursday August 5th, 2021 9:24:58 PM
Rurik sighs as the tall folk seem intent on their conversation, ignoring his suggestions while they argue over the problem. He begins gathering all the rope on board the ship that isn't actively being usedand then goes to see the weavers below explaining the problem to them.
"I think if we could have a rope long enough, we might be able to see how high up the clouds are. I doubt that we have enough though, but it seems the tools to fix this are easily at our disposal. You have great skill in weaving, and we are surrounded by plenty of material for ropes. Would you be able to make rope long enough, with the benefit of what we have now? If not, then I am willing to listen to suggestions, especially given your expertise."
Rurik looks back up at the stalk.
"But that still may not be long enough....I wonder how sturdy those stalks are. If they're stiff enough we may be able to make platforms part of the way up."
(OOC: Are you guys able to see my posts? Just making sure I'm not getting technical issues)
DM Shane. Friday August 6th, 2021 2:59:36 AM
OOC: you are coming in good. There is no consensus. Part want to head out where they think their destination is. Others want to try the puzzle of the clouds. You probably have 2000 ft of rope all told on this boat, if you raid the rigging. But Thomas has a better idea. if we can measure a known distance away from the bamboo, I can shoot the angle from the ship to the top of the plant take the Tangent and we got it.
Rubalad (SteveK) AC/T/FF 23/13/20 CMD 20 HP 47/52 Ruby d20+15=31 ; Friday August 6th, 2021 3:44:04 AM
Rubalad thanks Haemir for the healing. He is just confused at Thomas’ suggestion, but goes to inform Rurik that there seems to be a method to get the size without using all the rope.
The little badger-kin keeps watch on the anchor ropes to ensure nothing is crawling up, and on the horizon to ensure nothing too big is coming that could disturb the deliberations. ……
Perception. 31
Haemir (Rich) AC:13/13/10 - HP:41/41 - CMD:15 | Fand: AC:20- HP:49/49 d20+8=23 ; Friday August 6th, 2021 10:05:13 AM
Haemir will assist in whatever plan is adopted and when ready help set sail. Fand watches - looking the other directions to Ruby (Perception: 23).
"A truly amazing site this has turned out to be n' amazing to see"
The maiden pulls off, using knotted rope they get about 5000 ft from the Bamboo, Thomas shoots the angle with the Sextant he keeps in a padded box in the captain's quarters. he writes the angle down, does some math, and gets that the bamboo is 6000ft to where it hits the clouds.
Haemir (Rich) AC:13/13/10 - HP:41/41 - CMD:15 | Fand: AC:20- HP:49/49 Monday August 9th, 2021 9:33:08 AM
Haemir isn't really sure how the height of the clouds will tell them where they are but he accepts his ignorance and chips in. He's looking forward to getting back "on the road" so to speak.
He also offers his services to the crew - should any of them wish to converse with family via dreamwalking. It has been a while...
Rubalad (SteveK) AC/T/FF 23/13/20 CMD 20 HP 47/52 Ruby Monday August 9th, 2021 12:33:29 PM
Rubalad considers the height of the bamboo. ”Maybe no use for us, but if you are still learning about this… Sargrass Plains… every bit of knowledge helps to draw a picture of your quarry.”
The badger-kin looks forward to moving and learning where this boat and these heroes come from!
Elijah "Sol" Solomon (Daniel) HP:36/36 AC/T/FF:15/11/10 - CMD:15 Active Spells: Mage Armour Monday August 9th, 2021 6:12:27 PM
Sol thinks for a moment.
"Could we not just fly up to the top with a rope and figure out that length of the rope from that? That would give you the distance from the ship to the top of the bamboo?"
If this would work, Sol will cast fly on someone if they need it.
Rurik Ironjaw (Robert) | AC 19 | CMD 19 | 48/48 HP | Monday August 9th, 2021 8:23:39 PM
Rurik shakes his head at Haemir's words.
"I have no living family that I wish to speak with again. If are no more issues with this, then let us be off when we can."
Rurik retreats back to his area and falls into his meditation, annoyed, but trying not to show it.
Herbert Bramblerose (Bill Soucy) Monday August 9th, 2021 10:30:40 PM "Are we ready to go back to New Rattledam with the weavers and help them build the dome?"Herbert says, interlacing his stubby fingers to mimic the protective structure.
DM Shane. Tuesday August 10th, 2021 12:40:02 AM
with all your business done at the Big Bamboo, the Ship heads off.
Many are unsure how the information can help with navigation but Thomas seems to think that it may come in handy, only once the clouds have moved on, as without a "frame of reference" he cannot accurately fix Longitude.
The Maiden of the Plains sails on.
The gray clouds make navigation difficult but at the same time offer a break from the oppressive sun of the Sargrass.
From the last calculations, you were 2 days out of New Rattledam.
The clouds dissipate 3 days later and after some figuring Thomas figures, you have drifted North East quite a bit. This is unwelcome, as the wind is out of the South West, which means that you will have to "tack" into the wind by sailing at angles to the wind, the only way to sail against the wind.
Having to do so makes the ship "lean" away from the wind as it sails.
The deck is constantly tilted to a 15 to 20° angle. footing is treacherous, eating a meal at a table is impossible and sleeping...well...now you know why sailors sleep in hammoks.
Haemir (Rich) AC:13/13/10 - HP:41/41 - CMD:15 | Fand: AC:20- HP:49/49 Tuesday August 10th, 2021 4:54:47 AM
In the first few days of The Maiden the rail around the edge was put to good use - small.lengths of rope were attached and could be tied around a waist or held on to for such conditions. Haemir reminds people .. Better not to fall over board here and it's not like there wasn't enough rope.
Haemir seems quiet and reflective on the journey. At night he listens to the grass, during the day he helps the crew and occasionally practices on his violin.
Rubalad (SteveK) AC/T/FF 23/13/20 CMD 20 HP 47/52 Ruby Tuesday August 10th, 2021 9:03:44 AM
Rubalad is on unfamiliar ground, despite the boat being ‘urban terrain’. He starts the process to learn more about his immediate (the Maiden) and larger (the Sargrass) environment.
He has heard the Sargrass is usually really hot, really dry, and an endless sea of grasses of all types. It takes experiencing it to get those basics down into his marrow. He also begins learning things about the boat, starting with that it is actually a ‘ship’. Ruby shrugs, one name is as good as another to the badger-kin. He also learns what is a ‘mast’ and ‘deck’. And the reasons for hammocks.
Naturally agile, Ruby has little trouble with a 20 degree slopes deck, and continues to learn from the non-hero crew.
…..
Acrobatics. Min 6. Less <45 slope more than 3’ across, slightly unsteady like a boat in rough seas = DC 4
Herbert Bramblerose (Bill Soucy) Tuesday August 10th, 2021 11:18:35 PM Herbert does his best to stay stable on the rough ride, trying not to lose his lunch, envious of Ruby's agility.
LOG ON