DM Kathy Wednesday July 21st, 2021 2:36:48 PM
[The final scene of the last module was worth 200 XP. I can't remember if I already handed that out or not, but it should be 200 XP.]
As the days pass, Nightingale becomes acclimated to the new town. Ash visits the Catacombs and the WLA. Lothlo adds a sword to his available weapons. Naithi explores her new abilities.
The large wooden building is finished, so some of the townsfolk can move into it and have a real roof over their heads. There isn't room for everyone, though, and there is debate about who should move in. Some say families with children, who need the extra protection. Some say the sick and elderly, who need additional comfort. Some say it should be decided by lottery, completely neutral. It isn't an argument, precisely, but there are extensive discussions.
Beech (JohnC) AC 14(18)/14/14,HP 11/20 Character Wednesday July 21st, 2021 6:05:42 PM
Beech is happy in his tent, for now, He continues to work on plans for a rotating style bridge. He also draws out a plan for which trees are used to carry the rope bridges from the various tree buildings and which 2 or 3 trees will have a stairway spiral around them for access to the tree branch level buildings.
Lothlo (WillD) -- AC: 20/15/16, HP: 45/45, CMD: 21 Wednesday July 21st, 2021 9:11:32 PM
Lothlo listens to the discussions about the new housing. I seem to be in and out a lot, so I can wait on having a permanent roof over my head. I would say if we have the room then it makes sense to care for the sick first, those that need the extra shelter and warmth to recover and stay safe, assuming their needs to make it safer for them to be separate in a tent. I think at this point the camp is secure enough that we don't need extra protection for anyone, but if that's not the case we may want to prioritize fixing those security issues. The safety of our village is something we should always stay on top of.
Ash (RobC) -- AC 12/12/10 -- CMD 12 -- HP 41/41 d20+11=15 ; Wednesday July 21st, 2021 11:55:13 PM "I agree with you, Lothlo. The sick need the extra shelter. We should also try and make room for the children, even if it means their parents need to remain in the tents"
Ash (and her adept Briana) help tending to the sick and injured as time allows. Briana has made it a full time unpaid job to try and heal as many people as she can, and she's not too bad at it. The fewer sick people there are then the more room there is for the children in the shelter.
For her part Ash tries to work out the optimal configuration and positioning of bunks to allow for the most people to fit in the building. She also looks for ways to optimize the bunks themselves. Could some stack 3 high rather than 2 and fit children (and halflings)?
------------------ Knowl Engineering: 15 to work out how to fit the most bunks as possible into the building?
Nightingale (JonS) HP 27/27 AC 18 CMD: 21 Thursday July 22nd, 2021 12:26:27 AM Sorry y’all, I was out of town over the weekend, I’m gonna try to catch up the conversations
Beech Yes, I know. It’s how I was raised though. Many people have mentioned that fact to me as well, they have told me that my name is appropriate as I flit around like a bird.
Lothlo Oh no. I didn’t grow up in one, I just helped one out. Would you like a smoked kokanee, they are very tasty, though small (the fish has been carefully skinned, and is about 6” long)
Ash Oh how nice. I have had some lovely conversations with Orckin, well, and some not so nice, but I don’t try to dwell on the negatives…
Grindar While he is belly laughing, Nightingale will reach out and poke his belly. Is there a dwarf in there masquerading as a half-orc?
Zazu Clearly blushing from poking Grindar Oh, what, oh, no I’m an adventurer tried and true. I can’t seem to stay in one place for very long, although, this looks like a nice place to lay my head
Nightingale (JonS) HP 27/27 AC 18 CMD: 21 Thursday July 22nd, 2021 12:32:01 AM I don't know if there is anything I need to do with Nightingale while we are wherever we went lol, she might just follow the guys around to see what's to do
Zazu (AC18, HP25/25) and Boyo the bunny (AC16, HP12) (Cayzle) Thursday July 22nd, 2021 12:57:21 AM
Zazu spends time helping the fishers of the village improve their fish traps.
Grindar, son of Grindor (Jeremy) HP 37/37 AC 19/13/16 CMD 23 Cotton HP 30/30 AC 18/13/15 CMD 18 Thursday July 22nd, 2021 11:01:10 AM
Grindar also agrees with the building being used for the sick and for children 1st, than parents of the children second. He hopes there is very little sick, so as to make room for more kids.
Beech (JohnC) AC 14(18)/14/14,HP 11/20 Character d6=6 ; Thursday July 22nd, 2021 12:27:54 PM
OOC:Darn it... rolled my d6 here instead of loot and booty. can i count it or do i need to roll there for hp?
Beech agrees with sick, but mixing the sick and children might be bad...
He does pick a spot on both banks of the river to have built up and reinforced for the eventual bridge and down stream of it to be dug out for mooring of the barges that will eventually be loading and unloading here.
Nightingale (JonS) HP 27/27 AC 18 CMD: 21 Thursday July 22nd, 2021 2:40:53 PM
Nightingale agrees with Beech and Grindar about housing the sick, and the children, but offers We can always use tarping or blankets to separate the two, until a more permanent structure is built.
DM Kathy Thursday July 22nd, 2021 3:05:59 PM
You weigh in on the new building, urging the townsfolk to accommodate the elderly, sickly, and children. The "sick" in this case do not have contagious diseases; your healers are pretty good with those. But there are people with long-term infirmities such as arthritis and tremors, and they would probably benefit from moving out of their tents.
You are important people in this new town, and your opinions have weight. The elderly, infirm, and children are moved into the new building, along with parents of the younger children. Some parents of older children are still in tents, and not too happy about it, but for the most part people seem satisfied with the arrangement.
Planning begins on a second building, which will be a similar size to the first. It, too, will be used for shelter until houses can be built, at which point it will be divided into four small shops. There is some discussion about where this new building is to be.
In the meantime, some of the townsfolk begin organizing explorations of the surrounding area. It's going to be important to learn what's nearby. Is there a better spot for fishing? An area of fallen trees that can be used for lumber? Clay to make pottery and bricks? Groups are organized, and likely areas of exploration are discussed.
Nightingale (JonS) HP 27/27 AC 18 CMD: 21 Thursday July 22nd, 2021 4:19:30 PM
Nightingale mentions several areas where she passed by edible berry clumps, and that there are several types of tubers, and herbs than can be transplanted from the woods, to start a garden of sorts ... If that's ok
Lothlo (WillD) -- AC: 20/15/16, HP: 45/45, CMD: 21 Thursday July 22nd, 2021 10:59:46 PM
As the groups prepare to start exploring, Lothlo points out on a map the locations of there past finding on the earlier expeditions so they know what direction to head if they are looking for more of each resource, and possible locations that need further exploration.
Naithi (JamesD) AC: 19/14/17 HP: 20/23 , CMD = 16 Friday July 23rd, 2021 2:48:39 AM
I show Nightingale where we are growing the crops. I had them focus mainly on edible grasses, briars, bushes, creepers, thistles, trees, vines, and so on. Basically anything that would be affected by the Plant Growth spell that makes everything think and overgrown to the point of making it difficult to easily pass through. We then transplanted then into an orchard, vineyard and gardens before casting the spell again in order to increase their yield by 1/3 did the year.
I didn't think to collect any tubers, and I'm afraid I'm not familiar with all of the local herbs yet. Anything you can find to add would be great.
Grindar, son of Grindor (Jeremy) HP 37/37 AC 19/13/16 CMD 23 Cotton HP 30/30 AC 18/13/15 CMD 18 Friday July 23rd, 2021 10:15:56 AM
Grindar isn't very knowledgeable about plants, but he is happy to offer his muscle if any labor is needed.
Zazu (AC18, HP25/25) and Boyo the bunny (AC16, HP12) (Cayzle) d20+6=19 ; Friday July 23rd, 2021 11:38:23 AM
Zazu uses survival to help find the best fishing places, and trains folk on how to use the fish traps.
Survival 19
Beech (JohnC) AC 14(18)/14/14,HP 11/20 Character Friday July 23rd, 2021 3:26:24 PM
Beech puts in marker stakes along the river, the lea area seems really large until he mentions the plans on also becoming a place to do repairs and construction of the rafts/boats/barges that travel the river, hopefully a lot more often than they currently do. He asks the others for suggestions if they have any...
DM Kathy Friday July 23rd, 2021 7:58:46 PM Naithi shows Nightingale the town's gardens. They really aren't large enough yet to be called "fields" or "crops," but as kitchen gardens, they're coming along very well. You see berry bushes (it's probably too late to hope for berries this year), beans and peas, summer and winter squash. A row of fruit-tree saplings stands hopefully nearby.
After taking an inventory, Nightingale leads a day-long expedition to gather herbs, tubers, and root vegetables for transplanting. Grindar and his map are a tremendous help in locating resources Nightingale hadn't seen.
Beech and Zazu are more interested in the river. Beech places markers and studies the area. Zazu tries to find good spots for fishing.
As the two of you talk, you both realize it would be a good idea to follow the river to its source, and your Folding Boat would make this an easy chore. The others are off gathering food plants for the gardens--do you want to wait for their return or set off on your own?
Beech (JohnC) AC 14(18)/14/14,HP 11/20 Character Saturday July 24th, 2021 4:23:39 PM "Doesn't this start at Black Bird Lake? I followed a rive down from there... Did the woods make me get lost too?"
Grindar, son of Grindor (Jeremy) HP 37/37 AC 19/13/16 CMD 23 Cotton HP 30/30 AC 18/13/15 CMD 18 Monday July 26th, 2021 10:27:06 AM
Grindar carries as many plants back for transplanting as he can. Even though he is a warrior at heart, he gains a sense of joy contributing to this fledgling community in such a way. Sure he made contributions down in the Sargrass Plains, but his pack down there was mostly making negotiations, and other political stuffs, and that just isn't his thing. When he isn't swinging his ax, he would much rather roll up his sleeves and get his hands dirty.
Lothlo (WillD) -- AC: 20/15/16, HP: 45/45, CMD: 21 Monday July 26th, 2021 10:48:37 AM I believe there is also a source at the scab, though I've not really looked at the map to see where that might be. I think I'll stay here and help with the planting. The last thing we want is to run low on food between harvests.
ooc: I just now realized that
DM Kathy Monday July 26th, 2021 7:02:06 PM Grindar, the fierce warrior, finds he rather enjoys carefully carrying delicate plants and getting his hands dirty.
Beech believes the river the flows past Freedom's Landing originates in Blackbird Lake. Lothlo thinks the source is the Scab. They are both right, and both wrong. There is a river system that begins in the Scab, flows through the Culverwood, then flows into Blackbird Lake and out again before ultimately reaching the sea.
However, that river is not your river. Your river is different. The source is probably quite nearby, though nobody has explored it yet to verify that. Downstream, it joins with the Pale River before flowing past Mount Bone and Dirt City on its way to the sea.
Ash (RobC) -- AC 12/12/10 -- CMD 12 -- HP 41/41 Monday July 26th, 2021 7:48:20 PM
Ash considers other possible ways to get a lead on Myre. They could go to the Emerald City and ask around, without fear that it was the thieves guild that took her. They could cast some divination spells to help locate her. Perhaps they could even see whether anyone else has gone missing? If it's just Myre then it may be she was specifically targeted. If there are others, well, then they may have a bigger problem on their hands.
Zazu (AC18, HP25/25) and Boyo the bunny (AC16, HP12) (Cayzle) Monday July 26th, 2021 9:13:56 PM
Zazu thinks that entering the Culverwood proper to seek the river's source sounds exciting. But Myre is more important, and maybe we can find a lead in the big city.
Either way, the wizard bookmaker spends the day making a scroll with four spells: CL3 Mage Armor, CL3 Mage Armor, CL1 Obscuring Mist, and CL3 Scorching Ray. Cost with Scribe Spell scroll is 3/4 x (75+75+25+150) = 245 gp.
Lothlo (WillD) -- AC: 20/15/16, HP: 45/45, CMD: 21 Tuesday July 27th, 2021 9:17:07 AM Hmm, that makes sense about the river. I thought I heard this river went farther, but it's possible I was being told tales of the wrong river. It's easy to get lost when a land isn't thoroughly explored.
Naithi (JamesD) AC: 19/14/17 HP: 20/23 , CMD = 16 Tuesday July 27th, 2021 10:31:55 AM
ooc: Did Jerry clarify the river in an email? I think I accidentally deleted it when cleaning up my mailbox
Naithi (JamesD) AC: 19/14/17 HP: 20/23 , CMD = 16 Tuesday July 27th, 2021 10:35:14 AM I think we all want to review Myre, but I'm afraid we've run out of clues. Until we get another lead, I think we should explore the river. Especially since the thieves have been active along the river. It's not much, but it's the only sliver of a connection at have. Who knows? We might just get lucky.
Naithi (JamesD) AC: 19/14/17 HP: 20/23 , CMD = 16 Tuesday July 27th, 2021 10:35:15 AM I think we all want to review Myre, but I'm afraid we've run out of clues. Until we get another lead, I think we should explore the river. Especially since the thieves have been active along the river. It's not much, but it's the only sliver of a connection at have. Who knows? We might just get lucky.
Grindar, son of Grindor (Jeremy) HP 37/37 AC 19/13/16 CMD 23 Cotton HP 30/30 AC 18/13/15 CMD 18 Tuesday July 27th, 2021 11:03:54 AM
Grindar is open to what everyone else wants to do. He agree's that finding their missing friend is important, but he also can barely contain his curiosity, in reference to the river's origin. Finally he speaks up saying, "Friends, while I never met Myre, I agree finder her is important, but sadly, as Naithi has said, we don't have any clues to go on. We do however have this river and this folding boat, and I must confess I am curious as to the origins of this uncharted river. My skills, as a sailor, are limited, but it would be fun to use them again, and this time on water. My experience has been mostly working on a grass boat down in the Sargrass Plains. By the way, when I say grass boat, I mean a boat that actually sails on the grasses of the Sargrass Plains, via some magical wood. Anyway, we could wait around here for a clue to drop in our laps, or we could travel about aimlessly looking for a clue, but neither of those things are certain to bear fruit, so I propose we make a trip upstream and see what is to be seen, than we can resume our search. Who knows, a clue may actually fall into our lap when we return, be waiting for us upon our return, or we may find one on our journey."
Beech (JohnC) AC 14(18)/14/14,HP 11/20 Character Tuesday July 27th, 2021 1:54:17 PM
OOC: That's what I thought, the river here drained into BBL, then via a short river/opening, it went to the sea, but when I joined the game, I was told I was incorrect.
"Well, without any clues, we are at a wall we can not pass in our search for Myre, that leaves us searching the source of the river or spending our days doing construction work."
Nightingale (JonS) HP 27/27 AC 18 CMD: 21 Tuesday July 27th, 2021 2:53:42 PM
Nightingale, having listened to the conversation center on their missing friend, asks, Has anyone sought arcane or divine aid in finding any clues of where your friend may be? Besides that, determining where the river begins might be a good way to look for other resources. There are several water plants that have healing and curative properties, plus some can be used to clean wounds, and just to lather off pesky dirt that accumulates on people.
DM Kathy Tuesday July 27th, 2021 6:34:44 PM
Many of you are still worried about the missing Myre. You would like to try to find her. But, as Naithi and Grindar point out, you really don't have any leads at this point.
Meanwhile, the river beckons. Finding the source sounds like a good project.
So, the following day, you bring out your Folding Boat and unfold it into its smaller form. It's a tight fit for the group, but the larger form would have trouble navigating the river. You begin to head upstream.
It's a pleasant trip, although Nightingale is disappointed to find that there aren't a lot of water plants. The current is fairly strong, and the fish probably nibble up most of what manages to grow.
It's hard work heading upstream, but you are able to trade off on the oars and share the chore. The riverbanks flow by, the well-tended forests and green verges of the Tamed Lands.
Then the river widens a bit, and the current slows. Nightingale is about to call a halt so she can look for water plants, when you round a bend. Ahead of you, you can see that the river flows out of a cave! It is bright sunlight on the boat, and you are looking into a dark cave, so you can't see much. But there is no doubt that the river starts somewhere underground.
Ash (RobC) -- AC 12/12/10 -- CMD 12 -- HP 41/41 Tuesday July 27th, 2021 7:48:00 PM
Ash isn't overly pleased. If the party don't have any leads on Myre then it's all the more reason to find some. Ask questions, cast divination spells, hang around taverns and listen for tips.
She gives it one last shot. "We have her belongings and there's sure to be some of her hair on her bedroll. A scrying spell could find her very quickly. Surely it's worth a shot? It could give us our best lead yet! Is there any reason not to try?"
In the boat she sits quietly. Her thoughts dwell on Myre and what could be happening to her friend.
----- OOC: Ash may have been the closest to Myre so would pout a bit. She'll stop now. Travelling along the river into the Culverwood sounds good to me!
Zazu (AC18, HP25/25) and Boyo the bunny (AC16, HP12) (Cayzle) d20+14=34 ; Tuesday July 27th, 2021 11:04:23 PM
After casting Mage Armor, Zazu looks with awe on the river going into the cave. "I wonder what is going on here?"
Know Nature 34 woot!
If a deep look suggests it is safe, Zazu suggests rowing onwards.
"Anyone have magical light?"
Lothlo (WillD) -- AC: 20/15/16, HP: 45/45, CMD: 21 d20+12=20 ; Tuesday July 27th, 2021 11:42:51 PM Hmm, fresh water and shelter. We definitely don't want to rush in there, could be something's home. Lothlo looks around to make sure there are no signs of traps or of signs there is something living in the cave.
Perception = 20
Grindar, son of Grindor (Jeremy) HP 37/37 AC 19/13/16 CMD 23 Cotton HP 30/30 AC 18/13/15 CMD 18 d20+9=11 ; Wednesday July 28th, 2021 10:20:32 AM An underground river, now that's got some shade to it. I wonder what's down there."Grindar says as he moves to the front of the boat, so that his orcish darkvision can be of use. He looks to see if the boat will fit into the cave, and if so, suggests sailing in. Perception 11
Naithi (JamesD) AC: 19/14/17 HP: 20/23 , CMD = 16 d20+9=10 ; d20+10=17 ; d20+12=20 ; Wednesday July 28th, 2021 1:45:12 PM
Camalayas and I look ahead, trying to gleam any information we can from the strange sight of a river flowing out if the earth.
Beech (JohnC) AC 14(18)/14/14,HP 11/20 Character Wednesday July 28th, 2021 1:54:00 PM
Beech also casts Mage Armor, then suggests, "I can cast some globes of light, so we can all see. Yea or Nay?" He readies his bow, as in, he has it in hand, ready to use.
Nightingale (JonS) HP 27/27 AC 18 CMD: 21 Wednesday July 28th, 2021 2:57:26 PM
Nightingale thinks for a moment, I too can create light, but it would only last an hour or so. Maybe torches would be better as they last longer?"
DM Kathy Wednesday July 28th, 2021 7:39:23 PM Ash still feels that a clue to Myre could be uncovered, but that is another problem for another day.
Zazu realizes that the source of the river is underground, and this cave is where it flows into the open. He calls for light.
Grindar, who can see pretty well in the dim light, moves forward to take a look. Inside the cave is a lake--not a very large lake, though it's hard to say at the moment how deep it is. The river flows from the lake and out of the cave.
Beech and Nightingale stand by with magical light, although Nightingale suggests that maybe mundane means would be better.
Lothlo, looking around, sees some weird....things....at the bottom of the river, right at the entrance to the cave, partially shaded by its overhang. They don't look like rocks, exactly, although they are dark in color and quite uneven.
He points them out to Naithi, who is pretty sure they are some kind of shellfish--mussels or something similar.
Meanwhile, you have paused at the oars, unsure whether to go into the cave or not. The boat drifts gently in the current.
Lothlo (WillD) -- AC: 20/15/16, HP: 45/45, CMD: 21 d20+3=16 ; Wednesday July 28th, 2021 9:07:38 PM Hmm, I suppose they do look like shellfish. Anything we should be concerned about? Or something worth taking note of for future supply runs
Lothlo tries to identify the shellfish knowledge nature = 16
Ash (RobC) -- AC 12/12/10 -- CMD 12 -- HP 41/41 Thursday July 29th, 2021 4:06:28 AM "I can create Dancing Lights as often as we need. It also means I can send them further ahead into the darkness if we need, or even underwater. I think."
Ash casts a dancing lights spell to create four lights that resemble torches. She sends them spiraling around and away from the boat up to 100ft away. If the DM allows she will also send them into the water.
Naithi (JamesD) AC: 19/14/17 HP: 20/23 , CMD = 16 d20=18 ; d20+12=16 ; d20+10=15 ; Thursday July 29th, 2021 1:55:53 PM
I grin as I spy the shellfish. Do you see that! Tonight I'm making paella!
I check to make sure there is nothing dangerous in the water and then grab a rope and tie it around my waist. Does anyone have a 10ft pole? If not, I can use a spare oar. I just want something long incase there is a giant one that wants to make me dinner instead of the other way around.
Assuming I see nothing dangerous, I jump in and start filling a bag with muscles.
Nightingale (JonS) HP 27/27 AC 18 CMD: 21 d20+9=25 ; Thursday July 29th, 2021 2:16:09 PM
If the light doesn't mess with it, Nightingale will use her darkvision to look around up front and on the ceiling around them [Perception roll - hopefully this works]
Beech (JohnC) AC 14(18)/14/14,HP 11/20 Character Thursday July 29th, 2021 3:23:18 PM
Once the shellfish thingys are pointed out, Beech nocks an arrow and watches them in case they decide we are intruders....
DM Kathy Thursday July 29th, 2021 7:11:18 PM Lothlo points out the shellfish. Naithi declares her intention of making paella, but before she can prepare to jump off the boat, it is moving again, now into the cave.
Nightingale and Grindar, with their darkvision, can see that the lake is not particularly large, and almost perfectly round. It is surrounded by rock walls.
A moment later, Ash casts her Dancing Lights and the entire party can see it. After a moment looking around, you realize that there is no river leading into the lake. It must be fed by an underground spring. Possibly more than one.
Ash is able to send her lights under the water. The lake is about 20 feet deep at its deepest point. All over the bottom of the lake, you see more of those mussles--or whatever they are. There are lots and lots of them. After a little more searching with the lights, you find the spot where the lake is fed by an underground spring. You have found the river's source. And, possibly, tonight's dinner.
Naithi begins making her preparations to go in after some mussels. Beech has an arrow ready in case of trouble, but you didn't see anything down there that looked dangerous, and there aren't a lot of places for a big predator to hide. Unless, you know, it can turn invisible or something.
Nightingale (JonS) HP 27/27 AC 18 CMD: 21 d20+2=17 ; Thursday July 29th, 2021 8:01:30 PM
Although she may not be a good swimmer, Nightingale wants to explore the bottom of this "lake" to see if these mussels are surviving off some kind of foliage [Know - Nature, if she can use it...]
Lothlo (WillD) -- AC: 20/15/16, HP: 45/45, CMD: 21 d20+3=23 ; Thursday July 29th, 2021 9:01:41 PM
Lothlo notices that the cave is almost perfectly round... an odd feature in nature. He looks for signs that this cave is or isn't a natural phenomenon.
Knowledge (nature)= 23 (nat 20)
Ash (RobC) -- AC 12/12/10 -- CMD 12 -- HP 41/41 d20+10=11 ; Friday July 30th, 2021 2:30:08 AM
Not wanting to get wet, Ash casts a Mage Hand spell to try and pick up one of the mussels while staying in the relative safety of the boat.
------------------ Knowl Dungeoneering: 22 (Take10) - is this cave a natural formation? Knowl Nature: 21 (Take10) - are they really mussels? Perception: 11
Naithi (JamesD) AC: 19/14/17 HP: 20/23 , CMD = 16 Friday July 30th, 2021 8:05:09 AM
I once again check to make sure there is nothing dangerous in the water and then grab a rope and tie it around my waist. Did anyone bring a 10ft pole? If not, I can use a spare oar. I just want something long I can jam in one north my mouth incase there is a giant one hidden under there.
Assuming I see nothing dangerous, I jump in and start filling a bag with muscles.
DM Kathy Friday July 30th, 2021 8:50:37 PM Nightingale wants to explore the bottom of the lake. Do you jump in?
Lothlo, noting that lakes aren't perfectly round in nature, tries to ascertain whether this one is artificial. He recalls that, first of all, he is still in the Tamed Lands, so that the lake probably isn't artificial per se, it may have been shaped some. He also recalls that, though rare, round lakes do occur in nature.
Ash casts Mage Hand and attempts to scoop up a mussel. You find that the five points of force a Mage Hand is able to wield is not enough.
Naithi jumps in the water. It is very cold. You have to take a moment to catch your breath, then you are able to dive down. At 20 feet, your head feels uncomfortably squeezed. You start grabbing mussels. Being shellfish, they are clinging to the rocky bottom of the lake, and need to be dislodged. You luck out and are able to grab a small rock with several mussels clinging to it. Your lungs aching, you head back to the surface with your mussels. You didn't stop to count, but you think you have about a dozen. Do you go under again?
Lothlo (WillD) -- AC: 20/15/16, HP: 45/45, CMD: 21 Friday July 30th, 2021 9:01:48 PM That water looks freezing! You guys are crazy, I'll stay up here where it's try and warm.
Ash (RobC) -- AC 12/12/10 -- CMD 12 -- HP 41/41 Sunday August 1st, 2021 8:39:11 AM
Ash reaches over the side of the boat to try and grab the rock from Naithi in case she decides to make another trip.
Beech (JohnC) AC 14(18)/14/14,HP 11/20 Character Sunday August 1st, 2021 2:51:17 PM "Wet fur is bad, cold wet fur, no thank you."
Naithi (JamesD) AC: 19/14/17 HP: 20/23 , CMD = 16 Sunday August 1st, 2021 10:07:20 PM
I pass up the rock up before diving back down. We will need more for a decent meal and to determine if they're are multiple ruled of shellfish down below.
Zazu (AC18, HP25/25) and Boyo the bunny (AC16, HP12) (Cayzle) Monday August 2nd, 2021 9:36:06 AM
Zazu calls down, "Don't take too many, or all from the same spot! We don't want the Culverwood to think we're greedy!"
Grindar, son of Grindor (Jeremy) HP 37/37 AC 19/13/16 CMD 23 Cotton HP 30/30 AC 18/13/15 CMD 18 d20+5=17 ; d20+9=15 ; Monday August 2nd, 2021 10:19:33 AM
Grindar looks dubiously at the mussels, and says, "I've heard mussels make fine eating, but to be honest, I've never tried them. They don't look very shady, but than again neither does eels and eggs, and I grew up on that stuff. I agree with Zazu about being greedy, let's only take what we need. You know, I just had a though, instead of cooking these guys up, what if we tried growing a colony of mussels back at Freedom's Landing?"
Naithi (JamesD) AC: 19/14/17 HP: 20/23 , CMD = 16 Monday August 2nd, 2021 1:22:49 PM
Ooc: I'm assuming there are plenty of muscles given the location and distance from town, but I will be careful not to overfish and will put back any seeds (babies). I will also check the boat before we leave to avoid hitch hikers coming back with us.
DM Kathy Monday August 2nd, 2021 8:39:50 PM Lothlo declares there's no way he's getting into that cold water! Beech concurs.
Ash retrieves mussels as Naithi brings them up.
Zazu calls not to take too many, and Grindar suggests trying to start a mussel colony nearer to Freedom's Landing.
After a few more dives, Naithi has enough mussels to make a nice stew for the group--or, if stretched with other ingredients, as in a paella, enough for about half the town. There are plenty more down there, but honestly you are starting to tire. This isn't the kind of work you're used to, and the cold and the pressure are becoming increasingly difficult to deal with.
Accordingly, you haul yourself back into the boat, thereby ensuring that just about everybody is at least a little bit wet. You are able to assure anyone concerned that there are so many mussels down there that what you took barely made a dent in the total population.
Ash (RobC) -- AC 12/12/10 -- CMD 12 -- HP 41/41 Monday August 2nd, 2021 8:53:07 PM
Ash tries to stay clear of the splashing but inevitably gets her clothes a bit wet. Once Naithi is aboard, Ash casts a Prestidigitation spell to clean and warm any damp clothes.
"That was a good find"
Lothlo (WillD) -- AC: 20/15/16, HP: 45/45, CMD: 21 Monday August 2nd, 2021 9:13:06 PM
Lothlo shakes as much water from his cloak as he can. It's a good think you're so small, if you were a taur we'd all be soaked. These mussels do look tasty though.
Nightingale (JonS) HP 27/27 AC 18 CMD: 21 Tuesday August 3rd, 2021 4:37:09 AM
Nightingale has been giggling at all the ruckus, then turns serious, Should we explore where the water comes up before we head back, or at least the back wall of this cavern, cave, grotto, whatever it is?
Zazu (AC18, HP25/25) and Boyo the bunny (AC16, HP12) (Cayzle) Tuesday August 3rd, 2021 9:17:44 AM
"Good idea, Ash," says Zazu, and the wizard also casts Prestidigitation to help make everyone dry and warm.
But on thinking about it, Zazu is puzzled. "If the water comes from a natural spring, what are all the mussels eating? Either it comes from a nutrient-rich source like some Underworld place with plants and animals, or maybe it is magical water."
Zazu casts detect magic and scans the area, especially the water.
"Ash, can you send your lights up around the ceiling and upper walls too? We have to make sure there are no dry passages leading to this chamber."
Zazu looks around and tries to determine the dimensions of this cave. "Maybe we should paddle all around the edge to make sure we do not miss anything." Zazu thinks about the famous ability of elves in former days to sense secret doors just by passing near them. Alas, we live in a degraded age, and that power was lost in times gone by.
As for the idea of further exploration, maybe we can rest and come back tomorrow with Water Breathing prepped? Who can cast that? Nightingale? Naithi?
[OOC: Hey James, I was looking at Naithi for water breathing, and your PC sheet is WAY out of date! And Jon, you have not even linked your sheet yet! Let's see everybody else ... Lothlo, Beech, and Ash are good. Jeremy, you get a pass, my friend!]
Beech (JohnC) AC 14(18)/14/14,HP 11/20 Character Tuesday August 3rd, 2021 10:31:55 AM
Beech, uses Detect Magic all around, and especially down into the water, taking a long time to examine as much of the area as possible magically.
Grindar, son of Grindor (Jeremy) HP 37/37 AC 19/13/16 CMD 23 Cotton HP 30/30 AC 18/13/15 CMD 18 d20+9=26 ; Tuesday August 3rd, 2021 11:58:07 AM
Grindar directs the boat into the cave, so he and his friends can get a better view (Perception 26)
Lothlo (WillD) -- AC: 20/15/16, HP: 45/45, CMD: 21 Tuesday August 3rd, 2021 7:54:14 PM This water is pretty clear, if we don't see an entrance right now I'm not sure there is much for us to come back to examine tomorrow. Besides, there is a lot of work back home that needs to be done still.
Naithi (JamesD) AC: 19/14/17 HP: 20/23 , CMD = 16 Tuesday August 3rd, 2021 8:28:10 PM
ooc: I just realized some cells on my character sheet stopped auto updating. Its accurate up to level 4, not only level 2 line it says. I'll get the new sheet up asap.
Naithi (JamesD) AC: 19/14/17 HP: 20/23 , CMD = 16 Tuesday August 3rd, 2021 10:02:06 PM
I climb into the boat and begin the prep work for dinner. As I clean the mussels my magic frying pan heats up water for the rice.
I can't cast water breathing. It's a third level spell, and I can only cast second level. I can use wild shape to go down and explore. I've always wanted to try changing into something that can breath under water.
DM Kathy Wednesday August 4th, 2021 12:05:51 AM
After Naithi's soggy return, Ash and Zazu help to dry people off.
Meanwhile, you are curious about the cave. Grindar steers the boat around the cave, but you all quickly see that there are no entrances or exits in the rock walls.
Wondering what the mussels might eat, Beech casts Detect Magic and looks around. Other than the boat itself, however, and the various magic items on your companions, there is no magic in the cave.
[I'm going to give this to you OOC because I don't know how much of this would be obvious to this technological level, even with magic. The water has a lot of mineral content. The minerals give rise to tiny plankton. (Some plankton don't need sunlight--I looked it up.) Mussels are "filter feeders," and plankton is their jam. Mmm, plankton! So that's how this ecosystem works. That's my story and I'm sticking to it.]
Lothlo reminds you that you have things to do back in camp. Indeed, Naithi has already started cleaning the mussels. This process will take a while, so maybe the frying pan doesn't need to be heated up just yet. When you open a mussel, you see that the inside of the shell is coated with shimmering mother-of-pearl.
You turn the boat back downstream, and drift out of the cave and back toward Freedom's Landing.
Grindar, son of Grindor (Jeremy) HP 37/37 AC 19/13/16 CMD 23 Cotton HP 30/30 AC 18/13/15 CMD 18 Wednesday August 4th, 2021 10:57:45 AM
When they arrive at Freedom's Landing, and before they go about their separate activities, Grindar pulls his friends together and says, "I believe I've found where I wish to call home, but I also feel my strengths would be of better use here full time, versus gallivanting about, as an adventurer. Mayhaps in the future, I may feel a desire to again take up the mantel of an adventurer, but for now, I will take up the plow and sickle and, like my father, hang up my ax, except for the defense of my community, and become a farmer."
Zazu (AC18, HP25/25) and Boyo the bunny (AC16, HP12) (Cayzle) Wednesday August 4th, 2021 12:12:43 PM
Zazu enjoys mussel stew, and is glad for the party's discovery.
"My friends, diversity in resources is what will give our community its strength. Some mussles here -- but not too many -- some fish there -- but not all of them, and we throw back the little ones -- some fruit trees, some gardening, some hunting, some foraging -- everything in moderation!"
Hearing Grindar's words, Zazu shakes the half-orc's hand. "You must follow your heart, and maybe your heart will lead you back to us some day. Farewell, my friend."
Beech (JohnC) AC 14(18)/14/14,HP 11/20 Character Wednesday August 4th, 2021 7:36:43 PM "Well, my friend, if you are ever interested in adventuring again, you won't have much trouble locating us. And if you are going to be in town anyways, how about being a member of the watch, at least until we get things up and running, full steam." Beech says to Grindar.
Lothlo (WillD) -- AC: 20/15/16, HP: 45/45, CMD: 21 Wednesday August 4th, 2021 9:04:51 PM Grindar, just remember that we are always around if you get the itch to become an adventurer again, or even if you just feel the need to stretch out your axe arm from time to time.
Ash (RobC) -- AC 12/12/10 -- CMD 12 -- HP 41/41 Wednesday August 4th, 2021 9:25:23 PM "Just... just don't get into too much trouble. We're already trying to track down one friend. We don't want to have to do the same for you" Ash gives Grindar a soft punch/tap to his shoulder. "Take care"
DM Kathy Wednesday August 4th, 2021 9:47:13 PM
When you return to Freedom's Landing, Grindar announces that he's through adventuring--at least for the time being. The next time you head out for adventure, he will be staying behind to help the town.
You say your farewells, but of course, it isn't as if he's leaving. He'll still be around, in the background.
In the meantime, Naithi finishes cleaning the mussels and begins making dinner.
Naithi (JamesD) AC: 19/14/17 HP: 20/23 , CMD = 16 Wednesday August 4th, 2021 11:31:48 PM
I know that Grinder will still be around, but I feel like we're losing part of it family. Fizzgig nuzzles his leg as Camalayas and I walk over. We're going to miss you. Remember that there is always a place for you, should you find your calling lays elsewhere.
Ash (RobC) -- AC 12/12/10 -- CMD 12 -- HP 41/41 Wednesday August 4th, 2021 11:54:50 PM
Not wanting anything to go to waste, Ash puts the mussel shells aside with plans to use the mother-of-pearl in jewelry. Every bit of gold will help the community.
She lets others in the settlement know where the party found the mussels so that they can harvest more.
Beech (JohnC) AC 14(18)/14/14,HP 11/20 Character Thursday August 5th, 2021 6:33:49 AM
Beech tries to figure out which spells with be able to do double duty, ones that can be used in and out of combat. Setting up a town and eventually a city is not easy....
Zazu (AC18, HP25/25) and Boyo the bunny (AC16, HP12) (Cayzle) Thursday August 5th, 2021 2:11:15 PM
"Good idea Ash! That's pretty and may be worth something."
Zazu ponders priorities.
"Should we build the treehouse first? That's the refuge for the kids in an emergency, right?"
Who is the person playing the Instrument of Building for us? Who has the best perform skill?
DM Kathy Thursday August 5th, 2021 9:39:06 PM Ash puts the mother-of-pearl shells aside for future use. She lets the townsfolk know where to find more mussels.
Beech is pondering his spell selection.
Zazu wants to rethink the building projects, but the decision for this week's build has already been made. Maybe next week for the treehouse. You ask who is playing the Lyre of Building. That would be Hilia, whose Perform bonus is 13.
As you enjoy Naithi's tasty paella, some of the townsfolk approach you. The area to the southwest of town remains largely unexplored, and they are wondering if you can head that way tomorrow.
Lothlo (WillD) -- AC: 20/15/16, HP: 45/45, CMD: 21 Thursday August 5th, 2021 10:34:53 PM
Lothlo tries to remember the area they are asking about exploring. South... west? We're happy to explore, but can someone get a map out? If I recall, we can't go very far west before leaving the boundaries of the Emerald Kingdom, so we would want to make sure we know where that is. Or, possibly the map we were shown when choosing where to build our town didn't show the full borders of the Emerald Kingdom. We would also be approaching the boundaries of Deep Culverwood, not somewhere one wants to accidentally stray unprepared.
Nightingale (JonS) HP 27/27 AC 18 CMD: 21 Friday August 6th, 2021 12:00:56 AM
OOC If y'all want to sift through the clerical spells Nightingale has access to and use them while in town, feel free. Today was my short day in class, the next four days its 830 to 530 ... with no laptop access until I get back from dinner, I have to feed the wife apparently =)
Ash (RobC) -- AC 12/12/10 -- CMD 12 -- HP 41/41 Friday August 6th, 2021 2:11:19 AM "You know, if Hilia was focused she'd be able to get a lot done with the Lyre" Ash knows that if she isn't distracted that she finds it easier to do a few things. (OOC: Hilia taking 10 could play until she's exhausted?)
Ash leaves some of the mother-of-pearl with her blacksmith friend/adept Mike. She asks him whether it would be possible to make a simple dagger with a mother-of-pearl hilt. It would make a nice addition to her collection.
She's ready to venture south-west with the others, though is wondering if there are other leads the party could chase down to find Myre.
Zazu (AC18, HP25/25) and Boyo the bunny (AC16, HP12) (Cayzle) d20+13=30 ; d20+9=27 ; Friday August 6th, 2021 10:11:08 AM
"Sure," says Zazu, "Let's take a look tomorrow."
But the elf double checks to recognize these folks. Just in case it is another trick.
Perception 30
Sense Motive 27
Naithi (JamesD) AC: 19/14/17 HP: 20/23 , CMD = 16 Friday August 6th, 2021 5:45:56 PM
I finish cooking the essential ingredients of the paella and add several herbs to enrich it's distinctive flavor. I hear or slowly as all the ingredients are baked in the same pan, allowing the flavors to combine.
After the ingredients sautéed, giving off their flavor into the broth and add the rice. As the rice absorbs the liquid, the flavors are transferred to the rice, giving the whole paella a medley of flavor and explosion of taste.
We are close to the border of The Deep Culverwood, but we won't accidentally cross over. The forest there is so dense that it weekend be like hitting a wall of trees that block out the sky. It's pretty hard to miss.
Beech (JohnC) AC 14(18)/14/14,HP 11/20 Character Friday August 6th, 2021 8:31:49 PM
Beech pulls out some cinnamon he got from him mom... "Used sparingly, this adds a nice spice flavor."
Lothlo (WillD) -- AC: 20/15/16, HP: 45/45, CMD: 21 Friday August 6th, 2021 10:31:21 PM
The air starts to fill with the dinner Naithi is cooking. I don't know where you learned to cook that, but I can't wait to try some!
DM Kathy Friday August 6th, 2021 10:53:13 PM Lothlo takes another look at the map. It's difficult to see for sure, but there is a bit of territory to the southwest of town that is still in the Tamed Lands. You could explore as far as you felt safe then circle back and explore some of the territory due south of town as well. Naithi assures you that you'll know the deep Culverwood when you see it.
Ash suggests that Hilia take a "slow and steady" approach, but Hilia assures you that's what she's doing. Indeed, she and the Lyre have helped the townsfolk build incredibly fast.
Zazu is suspicious, but you recognize these people and sense no ill intent.
You all help with the final touches of the paella. It is delicious. You eat, you drink a bit, you chat under the stars, and then you sleep. The next day dawns clear, with no clouds in the sky. Perfect exploring weather.
Lothlo (WillD) -- AC: 20/15/16, HP: 45/45, CMD: 21 Sunday August 8th, 2021 3:49:42 PM Yup, that's what I thought. I know we have a little ways we can still go west before we leave the tamed lands, but since south was mentioned I wanted to make sure we were going to explore the area you wanted us to check out.
Beech (JohnC) AC 14(18)/14/14,HP 11/20 Character Sunday August 8th, 2021 9:59:51 PM
Beech, gathers up his gear, and is ready to go. Wether they go south, east or wherever, he thinks he's as set as possible.
Ash (RobC) -- AC 12/12/10 -- CMD 12 -- HP 41/41 Monday August 9th, 2021 7:52:02 PM
Ash gets a good night sleep in a somewhat uncomfortable bedroll. The beds and cots are occupied by those in the settlement that need them more, and she's good with that.
Lothlo (WillD) -- AC: 20/15/16, HP: 45/45, CMD: 21 Monday August 9th, 2021 9:04:44 PM
Lothlo finishes up his cup of coffee as the others get ready and talks to the towns people to get a better feel for what kind of resources they want to keep an extra eye out for so they can make small detours if they notice likely sites for them.
Naithi (JamesD) AC: 19/14/17 HP: 20/23 , CMD = 16 Monday August 9th, 2021 10:24:48 PM
I feed Camalayas, Fizzgig, and Cuddly Mule before irritating to head out.
DM Kathy Monday August 9th, 2021 10:43:30 PM
After making your daily preparations and grabbing a quick breakfast, you set out to explore.
[OOC: And at this point, anybody asking the DM whether they have new spells is officially a cotton-headed ninny muggins.]
You head southwest, and find a rabbit warren, but nothing else of note. Around mid-morning, you see what is clearly the border to the Deep Culverwood, so you swing eastward to make a circle back to town.
You are beginning to look for a good spot to have lunch when you round a corner and see a young woman, perhaps an adventurer like yourselves, already seated and enjoying her midday meal.
[Everyone say hi to Esther! Be sure to describe your character!]
Ash (RobC) -- AC 12/12/10 -- CMD 12 -- HP 41/41 Monday August 9th, 2021 11:18:38 PM
The last young woman the party met on the road was a member of the thieves guild (probably). Ash isn't going to let that experience deter her from being nice to strangers.
"Hi there!" she calls out from a safe distance. Ash raises her hand in greeting but also to show she is unarmed. Well, since her spells are her weapons she's kinda always armed but the woman doesn't know that.
Zazu (AC18, HP25/25) and Boyo the bunny (AC16, HP12) (Cayzle) Monday August 9th, 2021 11:50:27 PM
Zazu nods to the newcomer.
"Hi, I'm Zazu. Pleased to meet you."
Zazu is a slender, short elf, with short hair, mousy brown (but growing out), and a mediterranean olivine complexion. Dressed in green and black. A backpack, a dagger, a short bow, and a buckler are the only adventuring gear that's obvious.
Sahabiel (EstherLauren) -- AC 22/11/21 -- HP: 40/40 Tuesday August 10th, 2021 4:47:02 AM
The young woman that you see is, at a glance, a closely human-like young adult, of average height. Her skin however, where it is exposed, has a distinct green hue over it, and she sports short brown hair which does little to hide her pointed ears even at this distance.
Of more immediate concern perhaps should be where the vast majority of her skin is not exposed, because this young woman is dressed like... well, a cataphract comes to mind - leather, mail, and a solid steel breastplate of elegant and possibly elven design. Even the large horse grazing a little behind her is protected by armor.
Sitting within reach of a large shield and what appears to be a heavy spiked ball on a long haft, the stranger raises her hand to return Ash’ greeting. " ‘ello", she replies jovially while putting aside the apple she was about to bite into. "Road’s greetings to ya.", she offers a travelers’ roadside greeting, despite the absence of actual road to be on the side of. As more of the party comes into view, she looks cautious, but also curious.
Beech (JohnC) AC 14(18)/14/14,HP 11/20 Character Tuesday August 10th, 2021 2:55:14 PM
A liontaur, whose hair and main look to have turned white with age says, "Greetings, we don't run into many travelers just out in the woods, at least not 'THESE' woods. Name's Beech, son of Aztyr. And you are?" The voice doesn't match the look.... The fur and hair of his mane seem to have turned white from age, but the voice says teenager. His clothing and gear doesn't align either... Backpack saddlebags, light weight shirt with a sickle at his waist, while carrying a longbow and quivers of different size arrows.
Lothlo (WillD) -- AC: 20/15/16, HP: 45/45, CMD: 21 Tuesday August 10th, 2021 9:02:58 PM
The sharpshooter in a crimson cloak maintains line of sight as they wave to the stranger. She has made no signs of reaching for he weapon, so Lothlo makes leaves his bow on his back. He lowers the hood of his cloak, revealing a head of short, cinnamon colored hair.
DM Kathy Wednesday August 11th, 2021 12:07:30 AM
You've learned to be wary of strangers, but the half-elf woman with the odd green skin seems friendly enough. You introduce yourselves, and chat a bit.
Sahabiel (EstherLauren) -- AC 22/11/21 -- HP: 40/40 Wednesday August 11th, 2021 9:09:45 AM “Ya can call me Sahabiel”, the young woman replies, and with a small grin and her thumb out gestures in the direction of the deeper reaches of the Culverwood. “And a daughter of ‘THESE’ woods, if ya will. Yer true on though, don’t normally see travelers ‘ere. Or could be ‘tis rather, yer like to meet no normal travelers ‘ere?” Her eyes move from the liontaur to the human, to the elf, to the beastfolk, and back to Beech, acknowledging with a silent expression that neither side here looks much like normal travelers.
“ ‘’t is a fair resting spot”, she adds after a pause, saying it in a way that makes it sound like an invitation. “Ya don’t look like yer from my way, so am I right that yer from the way I’m headed?”
Now that she has been speaking a bit more, rather than just being accented, it sounds as if she is approaching the common tongue as a somewhat foreign language rather than the one she’d use in everyday life.
Sahabiel (EstherLauren) -- AC 22/11/21 -- HP: 40/40 Wednesday August 11th, 2021 9:20:26 AM
P.S. I will link my character sheet in my header starting after the introductions. I thought it would feel more right if I didn't "contaminate" the introduction by already having her whole background on display out there.
Nightingale (JonS) HP 27/27 AC 18 CMD: 21 Wednesday August 11th, 2021 5:55:50 PM
Towards the back of the pack is a surface drow, somewhat tall and willowy. Her white hair is tied in a bun, except for one braid died forest green, and she has flowers mixed into it. She wears smoky-glass goggles (Riddick-style), she's not armored, and is only sporting a few daggers. She's wearing a 'monkish outfit that is embroidered with leaves and flowers. Her sandals look easy for her to kick-off, Her top is cropped so that her midriff shows. Running around her stomach and ribs are tattoos of trees and flowers – the ink is magical and the colors change randomly. On a living vine necklace is her holy symbol of Queen Maab.
Nightingale gives the elf a short bow, "Hello cousin, the woods look lovely today."
Beech (JohnC) AC 14(18)/14/14,HP 11/20 Character Wednesday August 11th, 2021 6:11:35 PM
Beech tries out pronouncing "Sahabiel" Hoping not to butcher it too badly... Being friendly moves her threat way down the meter, maybe not completely off the meter just yet, but down to about the level of a wild predator. Joining the town or even joining the group, would move her off the meter or to the ally side....
Ash (RobC) -- AC 12/12/10 -- CMD 12 -- HP 41/41 Wednesday August 11th, 2021 8:26:02 PM "Well we don't have much, but you're welcome to share" Ash hunts about for whatever the group had stashed for lunch. Did she remember to bring any mussels with her? Oh well, whatever supplies are at hand will have to do.
"So where is it you're heading towards?"
DM Kathy Wednesday August 11th, 2021 9:28:33 PM
You continue chatting with the elf woman, Sahabiel, and decide to enjoy your own midday meal here. Paella doesn't travel well, but Ash pulls out several rounds of flatbread, baked this morning, along with some dried meat and dried apples. She shares it around.
Lothlo (WillD) -- AC: 20/15/16, HP: 45/45, CMD: 21 Wednesday August 11th, 2021 10:05:01 PM You're from the Culverwood? We were only there about a day and had quite the crazy time, I am sure you have had a life filled with interesting tales. What was it like growing up there?
Naithi (JamesD) AC: 19/14/17 HP: 20/23 , CMD = 16 Wednesday August 11th, 2021 10:05:34 PM
I get back from scouting ahead for some game when I sit a daughter of the forest emerge and listen as introductions are made. We quickly rice forward to join the others.
As I rush forward you notice my hide armor covers most of my outfit. To you I must look like a child or fairie, or some cross of the two. People always mistake my race's facial features for youthful innocence. It also doesn't help that I come up to most of their thighs and weigh less than their armor. (3'6" and 30lbs).
Oh...My name is Naithi(N-eye-thee), better known as Murder Muppet, a nickname I earned as a slave in the orc gladiator pits. You can probably tell by my appearance that I am one of the beastfolk. Specifically I am a Sloth-kin, which you would lump in with the Ursine or Bearfolk.
Camalayaas, my dire rabbit (reskinned large cat), and I are hunters and adventures along with my guard dog Fizzgig. I also have a trusted cuddly mule carrying my gear.
ooc: Sorry for the missed posts. At first I was waiting for Sahsbiel to post, and then life for in the way.
Zazu (AC18, HP25/25) and Boyo the bunny (AC16, HP12) (Cayzle) Wednesday August 11th, 2021 11:27:26 PM
Zazu offers some stories about growing up and living in the Culverwood. It is clear that the elf has a deep fondness for the magical woods. And also for the so-called "Tamed Lands" in which so many of noble races have made their homes. Which is to say, Zazu tries to welcome the newcomer as a fellow Culverwood native, as Sahabiel seems to be saying she is.
"The woods can be scary or confusing or even angry sometimes, but I've seen the Culverwood also peaceful and beautiful and calm and amazing. Maybe we have that in common?"
Sahabiel (EstherLauren) -- AC 22/11/21 -- HP: 40/40 Thursday August 12th, 2021 8:10:14 AM
The offer of morning-fresh bread turns out to do wonders to make the elven cataphract open up, and she gladly offers to share some of her stewed mushrooms in return. As she handles the food, she speaks a few words in another language (unspoiler if your character can understand Sylvan) Highlight to display spoiler: {petitioning the powers of the Culverwood to bless it and ensure that it shall only do well to all that partake of it (a sylvan incantation of Purify Food and Drink)}.
As they share the midday meal, Sahabiel shares a few stories of her own, revealing that she is indeed a Culverwood native, and is a half-elf rather than an elf, though this does not stop her from calling Nightingale and Zazu cousin as the former did her. She also treats and speaks with Naithi and Beech the same as with the humans and elves.. possibly exactly because growing up in a place where the sylvan folk and fae are very much a reality to live with, she knows better than to judge by apparent age, size, or being a taur.
“‘Tis rumored that a good lot of o’ people, among them quite a few orcs, have settled somewhere in this area. So ya could say I am here because I took it upon m’self to go have a look at the new neighbours. Maybe live there for a while, ya know. Better ‘elp out early and get to know yer neighbour than to only first meet 'em when some poor soul tries to take an axe to the wrong part of our woods.”
Lothlo (WillD) -- AC: 20/15/16, HP: 45/45, CMD: 21 Thursday August 12th, 2021 9:04:35 PM
Lothlo catches what Sahabiel says is Sylvan. I don't think I've heard that blessing before, is that a traditional blessing in the Culverwood?
DM Kathy Thursday August 12th, 2021 9:52:06 PM
You learn that Sahabiel is native to the Culverwood. She and Zazu compare notes while Naithi introduces herself and Lothlo peppers the newcomer with questions.
You have a pleasant interlude, but soon, the group from Freedom's Landing begins to hear duty's call. They are supposed to be exploring. Fascinating though their new companion is, they should probably return to their mission.
Zazu (AC18, HP25/25) and Boyo the bunny (AC16, HP12) (Cayzle) d20+13=15 ; d20+12=27 ; Thursday August 12th, 2021 11:45:09 PM
After the meal, Zazu and Boyo are ready to explore.
"Come on, cutie," says the wizard to the familiar bunny. "We should be scouting around."
While they are walking, Zazu tells Nightingale and Sahabiel about all the plans for the new village. How a witch friend has promised to come and help them with sustainable farming, and about fishing with traps, and making a brickworks so that they don't have to cut down many trees, and about how to make sure everyone is happy in a mixed race village, and how to make the orc boys grow up right, and the ferry and road southeast to Kovri. And the Instrument of Building, that's major!
Clearly Zazu is not paying as much attention to the scouting as Boyo is!
Nightingale (JonS) HP 27/27 AC 18 CMD: 21 Friday August 13th, 2021 12:13:48 AM
Nightingale catches Sahabiel's eye, I have only been with these folks a short time, but they are very keen on creating a safe haven for those in need. Queen Maab led me here for a reason, perhaps meeting you is part of that reason, and ensuring this patron wood isn't harmed another.
Ash (RobC) -- AC 12/12/10 -- CMD 12 -- HP 41/41 Friday August 13th, 2021 3:48:24 AM "We've just left the settlement to do a bit of scouting but we will be returning soon. Want to walk with us a while, Sahabiel?" Ash dusts the crumbs from her pants and prepares to follow along behind Zazu.
Sahabiel (EstherLauren) -- AC 22/11/21 -- HP: 40/40 Friday August 13th, 2021 4:22:30 AM “I.. suppose so? ‘Tis how it was taught to me.”, Sahabiel replies to Lothlo.
As everyone is finishing up their lunch, she agrees to tag along with the party on the rest of their exploration, as she might as well go the long way around with people that know where the settlement she is looking for is, as try to find it on her own.
It soon becomes apparent that she might actually be helpful at it too, as even while she is chatting with Zazu and Nightingale, the half-elf repeatedly volunteers small insights about things they see while passing through this part of the forest.
(OOC: Sahabiel is +7/+9 on Knowledge (Nature) and +12/+14 on Survival checks in woodlands (use the higher number when it applies to the Culverwood or similar magical forest), making her a competent tracker and getting around forest terrain with relative ease)
“Sounds like ya down a good path.”, Sahabiel agrees with Zazu while listening to the stories of the settlement’s efforts to remain in harmony both within and with its surroundings. With Nightingale also confirming to her that it is the settlers’ aim to respect the Culverwood, a burden seems to be off her shoulders.
To Nightingale she entrusts, “Who knows? The Culverwood itself knows ta respect Queen Maab, but she’s not one to jus’ tell ya when she’s got plans for yer.”
Beech (JohnC) AC 14(18)/14/14,HP 11/20 Character Friday August 13th, 2021 1:21:07 PM
Beech having heard stories of many of the different powers, chips in. "Well, I'm my mother's son. Even though she is not the least bit divine in her magic, she in her prime was considered, well, I guess still is too, a High Priest of Alemi. I myself and more martial so tend more towards the fight against the various Cults that sometimes arise."
Naithi (JamesD) AC: 19/14/17 HP: 20/23 , CMD = 16 d20+10=13 ; d20+4=5 ; Friday August 13th, 2021 8:44:57 PM
Camalayas and I talk with the new girl as we walk, and do a terrible job multitasking as we keep an eye out for danger.
Naithi Perception = 13
Camalayas Perception with scent = 5
Lothlo (WillD) -- AC: 20/15/16, HP: 45/45, CMD: 21 d20+12=17 ; Friday August 13th, 2021 9:05:17 PM
Lothlo keeps an eye out for relevant resources, as well possible dangers as they march along. As they scout the area he asks Sahabiel about her recent observations of the area.
By the way, have you had any run ins with the thieves guild or anyone like that recently? They seem to have an operation not too far from here, but I'm guessing they are staying away from the Culverwood. Still, with them it's best to keep your distance if possible.
Perception = 17
DM Kathy Friday August 13th, 2021 10:56:41 PM
You set out for an afternoon of exploring. Sahabiel decides to tag along.
As you walk, Zazu waxes enthusiastic about the new settlement. Nightingale vouches for the group's intentions.
Everyone else just keeps a sharp eye out.
Shortly after mid-afternoon, Lothlo notices a kind of odd shape off to the east. You investigate it, and find a stone outcropping.
Knowledge Nature DC 15 Highlight to display spoiler: {The rock is basalt.} Knowledge Engineering DC 10 Highlight to display spoiler: {A quarry could be built here to obtain the rock.} If the type of rock is identified, Knowledge Engineering DC 15Highlight to display spoiler: {Basalt is a good stone to build with.}
Ash (RobC) -- AC 12/12/10 -- CMD 12 -- HP 41/41 Friday August 13th, 2021 11:04:48 PM
Ash kneels down to rub her hands along some of the rock
"This is basalt. It's a really good stone to work with. There's probably enough here for a quarry too"
She takes a look around to try and gauge the quantity but also how many people might be required to effectively set up the quarry.
----- Take10 on all Knowl checks= Pass!
Zazu (AC18, HP25/25) and Boyo the bunny (AC16, HP12) (Cayzle) Saturday August 14th, 2021 10:28:55 AM
"This is great news! And Ash, we don't need quarrymen! We have the Instrument of Building!"
Beech (JohnC) AC 14(18)/14/14,HP 11/20 Character Saturday August 14th, 2021 11:15:53 AM "We'll still need quarry people, those who know how not to take from the wrong areas so it doesn't collapse in on itself and those who will haul the rock back to the village where we'll use the instrument again to reform it to the shapes we want, like foundations and piers and such."
Sahabiel (EstherLauren) -- AC 22/11/21 -- HP: 40/40 Monday August 16th, 2021 5:18:45 AM
Sahabiel shares with Lothlo that since coming this way, she has not yet met anyone else on this side of the approximate boundary between the Culverwood and the Tamed Lands, let alone thieves, guild or otherwise.
At the potential quarry site, the half-elf confirms what Ash said about the properties of the stone, and looks around for some good size piece to bring to the settlement to show to a stoneworker.
(OOC: Since there seems to be time to search around for samples for several minutes, Take 20 on Perception for a result of 26)
Lothlo (WillD) -- AC: 20/15/16, HP: 45/45, CMD: 21 Monday August 16th, 2021 11:14:49 AM Basalt will be a useful material to have, there are a lot of uses for it. I'm sure that between those with building skills and the Instrument we will have no end ideas for how to use this.
DM Kathy Monday August 16th, 2021 8:53:58 PM Ash identifies the rock as basalt, and suggests a quarry could be established here.
Zazu excitedly says there's no need for a quarry; you have the Lyre of Building!
But then Beech, the killjoy, points out that it is not a Lyre of Cutting Stone into Handy Blocks, nor is it a Lyre of Moving Stone Blocks to Where You Want Them, so some quarrying will have to be done.
Sahabiel is able to find a fist-sized chunk of the stone to bring back as a sample.
Lothlo points out that there are probably lots of uses for this stone.
Putting your heads together, you think you can set up a decent quarry with 10-20 workers. [OOC: I do like to try to research this stuff, but all my Googling turned up was modern quarrying, with explosives and whatnot, so this is my best guess.]
Buoyed by your find, you make your way back to Freedom's Landing. The town is quiet when you arrive. Unusually quiet. And people look upset, or sad, or disturbed, depending on their personality. Has something gone wrong?
Lothlo (WillD) -- AC: 20/15/16, HP: 45/45, CMD: 21 d20+12=13 ; Monday August 16th, 2021 9:12:04 PM
Lothlo glances around to see if there is any danger or threats hanging around the town and scaring the people. I don't like this, we should be careful. Sahabiel, I had mentioned the thieve's guild before. They aren't exactly happy with us right now. Maybe I'm just being paranoid, but from the behavior of the people I'm worried something is up.
perception = 13
Ash (RobC) -- AC 12/12/10 -- CMD 12 -- HP 41/41 Monday August 16th, 2021 9:26:43 PM "Setting up a quarry could be dangerous work. Let's ask Parvati to put a plan together to make sure it can all be done safely. I mean, she's supposed to be one of the best engineers around, right?" Ash tells some of the newer people to the group about how the grumpy old woman joined the party initially to help with building roads but has since decided to stay with the settlement and offer her engineering skills. "She might even be able to advise the best path to take from here to there to ensure the easiest way to transport all the rock"
Things back at the settlement sure don't look like they did when the party left. Ash goes in search of Codru to see what has transpired.
Zazu (AC18, HP25/25) and Boyo the bunny (AC16, HP12) (Cayzle) Monday August 16th, 2021 11:07:28 PM
Zazu and Boyo take a really long time to walk the perimeter of the settlement. They are takin 20 on a survey to see anything out of the ordinary. Tracks where there should not be tracks. Anything out of place.
Beech (JohnC) AC 14(18)/14/14,HP 11/20 Character d20+6=24 ; Tuesday August 17th, 2021 11:02:18 AM
Somethings wrong, the hair on the back of Beech's neck is standing up, he draws and nocks an arrow."Be careful, somethings not right, not sure just what, but somethings upset everyone." Beech then heads into the town proper and asks "O.K. What's wrong?" trying to get what's going on from them....
Diplomacy check: 24
Naithi (JamesD) AC: 19/14/17 HP: 20/23 , CMD = 16 Tuesday August 17th, 2021 4:00:28 PM We should also contact the sprites and name sure the quarry wouldn't impact them, and we would want to do it in such a way that it maintains the environment. We wouldn't want another leprechaun invasion.
As we approach town my heart sinks. What do you think happened? We really need to develope a better way to keep in contact with the city and perhaps invest in a bracelet of friends so we can more easily come to their aid.
Sahabiel (EstherLauren) -- AC 22/11/21 -- HP: 40/40 Tuesday August 17th, 2021 4:57:13 PM
Sahabiel is not familiar with how the settlement should be, so she does not pick up on the present mood as something unusual. On the other hand, because it is her first time here, she is paying attention to her surroundings as she rides into settled area with the main body of the party.
(OOC: Passive perception 16)
Lothlo (WillD) -- AC: 20/15/16, HP: 45/45, CMD: 21 Tuesday August 17th, 2021 9:24:06 PM
Lothlo makes sure to stand a little offset from the group to make a single surprise attack less likely to hit everyone, and prepares to jump out of the way should an attack occur.
Nightingale (JonS) HP 27/27 AC 18 CMD: 21 Tuesday August 17th, 2021 10:23:52 PM
OOC: Sorry, I had to do two weeks of homework in a few days.
IC: Nightingale has been quietly observing and helping in the background, spending time with the disabled children and adults to see if she knows any curatives to give them some relief.
Zazu (AC18, HP25/25) and Boyo the bunny (AC16, HP12) (Cayzle) d20+11=17 ; d20+15=17 ; Tuesday August 17th, 2021 11:22:16 PM
Zazu and Boyo continue their investigation, but also think of being stealthy while doing so.
Stealth Zazu 17, Boyo 17
DM Kathy Wednesday August 18th, 2021 1:09:54 AM
On the way to Freedom's Landing, you discuss the quarry. Naithi reminds you that you need to clear it with the sprites before you start quarrying. Ash suggests that Parvati should be consulted on how to set up a quarry.
In town, Lothlo, Sahabiel and Zazu scan the area for signs of trouble or danger. You don't see any, but Lothlo and Zazu note some activity in an area the town had decided to clear for building.
Beech and Ash ask what's wrong. "They found a skeleton," Codru replies, looking grim. "Hidden in tall grass at the base of a tree. Everybody's upset, and some are taking it as a bad omen."
"We were hoping you'd take a look at it," Brother Matthew adds. "I believe the bones are those of an elf woman, but I would like to know what you think, and if you can perhaps determine how she died, because I could not tell."
Beech (JohnC) AC 14(18)/14/14,HP 11/20 Character d20=3 ; Wednesday August 18th, 2021 2:45:46 PM "I can take a look, but I'm not nearly the expert in medicine as some of the others." Beech will take a look at the bones.... but expects to just know they are bones....
Heal Check 3
Nightingale (JonS) HP 27/27 AC 18 CMD: 21 Wednesday August 18th, 2021 8:09:31 PM
If Nightingale is around she'll add, "I might be able to help with the bones as well" Heal Check +7, and/or she may be able to perform a ritual to seek guidance about the remains (???)
Sahabiel (EstherLauren) -- AC 22/11/21 -- HP: 40/40 d20+6=25 ; Wednesday August 18th, 2021 8:28:21 PM
Sahabiel is unsure why a whole community would be so collectively upset by the discovery that at some time in the past, someone had died in this area, but whatever the reason, it seems that duty was calling. "The dead are the dead even if they just turn up and ya 'ave no notion who they are, so I suppose I would be remiss if I didn'a have a look at that.."
(Looking for clues and cause of death, Heal check: 25)
Ash (RobC) -- AC 12/12/10 -- CMD 12 -- HP 41/41 d20+11=28 ; d20+4=24 ; Wednesday August 18th, 2021 8:52:06 PM "Where?!" is all Ash to say. Myre is a half-elf and it would be easy to mistake her bones for those of an elf.
She hurries to wherever the bones are resting to see for herself.
------------ Knowl Nature/Local: 28 - to determine the race of the skeletal bones Heal check: 24 - to determine the race of the skeletal bones
Naithi (JamesD) AC: 19/14/17 HP: 20/23 , CMD = 16 d20+9=17 ; Wednesday August 18th, 2021 9:18:53 PM
I examine the skeleton to learn what I can and ask Camalayas and Fizzgig to smell it and determine if it was a former party member.
Knowledge Nature to determine the age (he long ago the Skelton died) as well as to get demographics from it = 17
Lothlo (WillD) -- AC: 20/15/16, HP: 45/45, CMD: 21 d20+12=19 ; Wednesday August 18th, 2021 9:25:40 PM
Lothlo is curious where the skeleton was found that it had been undiscovered this long. Were they found in an area we haven't thoroughly explored yet? Please take us there and we are happy to investigate. And tell the others not to worry about bad omens. Our home has been good to us all this time. If we can give this woman a proper burial after all this time so that can only be a blessing.
When Lothlo gets to the are he looks for signs of how the unfortunate woman met her fate. Perception = 19
DM Kathy Wednesday August 18th, 2021 11:12:24 PM Lothlo wonders how the skeleton had gone undiscovered for so long, but when you see the spot, it becomes clearer. This tree and its surrounding undergrowth is quite near the outermost tents--you can see it from most of the town. But you can't see the skeleton until you walk over and actually stand under the tree, and even then it's a bit difficult to pick out. Nobody had reason to come over here until they were ready to clear the area for building. Looking around, you see scraps of rotted clothing near the skeleton--and over there, a leather satchel, mostly intact.
Beech has a look and yep, those are bones all right.
Nightingale thinks she may be of help. [OOC: Jon, if you want your character to use a skill, just roll that bad boy. :) Or say you're taking 10. No need to wait for DM permission or anything.]
Ash rushes over in a panic. What if it's Myre? Even a cursory examination of the area, however, sets your mind at ease. These bones have been here a while. Judging by the way the grass roots are tangled around them, they've been here five years at least. Whoever this is, it isn't Myre.
Between them, Ash and Sahabiel are able to determine that the skeleton was indeed an elf woman, on the young side, and that not all the bones are there. Naithi, with her knowledge of the natural world, reminds you that scavengers and/or predators may have made off with some body parts after the woman died.
You start looking for a cause of death, but after some study, you come up empty. The skull is there, and intact, so you know she wasn't bashed over the head. A few of the bones look like they've been chewed on, but again, that would have been after death. The bones don't show any recent injuries; if somebody, say, stabbed the woman in the heart, they did it without nicking any ribs. So you know a few things that didn't kill her, but that leaves way too many possibilities. Injuries to the vitals that wouldn't show on the bones. Disease. Poison. Exposure in the winter; heat stroke in the summer. You really can't narrow it down.
Ash (RobC) -- AC 12/12/10 -- CMD 12 -- HP 41/41 Thursday August 19th, 2021 4:03:25 AM
It takes a moment for the adrenaline to leave Ash's body. It's not Myre.
Hoping to get as much information as she can, Ash casts a couple of quick spells: Detect Magic and Detect Poison, just in case anything lingers after all this time.
"Poor girl. She deserves a proper burial." It occurs to Ash that people are inevitably going to die in the settlement and they're going to need somewhere to bury the bodies. It's a little morbid but they're going to have to deal with it eventually.
Zazu (AC18, HP25/25) and Boyo the bunny (AC16, HP12) (Cayzle) Thursday August 19th, 2021 9:06:03 AM
"I suppose we need a cemetery. Maybe the more religious among us can say some prayers?"
Beech (JohnC) AC 14(18)/14/14,HP 11/20 Character Thursday August 19th, 2021 1:36:15 PM "I know a few of the more appropriate words from Mom, for Alemi Ceremonies. But I'm not anywhere near being as Religious as she has become in her retirement. But there has to be someone here with a much more divine connection than that of being the Son of a High Priest." Beech does not look very pleased with needing to something this religious, but also seems to be determined if needed...
Nightingale (JonS) HP 27/27 AC 18 CMD: 21 Thursday August 19th, 2021 2:45:08 PM
Nightingle looks to Sahabiel, "Cousin, you and I should be able to consecrate grounds for a cemetery, but do we move these remains or make her a memorial here under the tree..." (the last bit is more to the party than Sahabiel
Sahabiel (EstherLauren) -- AC 22/11/21 -- HP: 40/40 d20+9=24 ; Thursday August 19th, 2021 4:03:43 PM
Sahabiel nods to her dark skinned cousin.. er.. Nightingale. "Ya noticed, hm? Fair and true, if it were you and me the land should take to it without conflict." As she speaks, the half-elf produces an amulet inscribed with the holy symbol representing the power of the Culverwood itself from around her neck. "First things though.. a few words fer this poor soul.. mind if I do so in elven? It would as like as not 'ave been her native tongue.".
She launches into a prayer for the unknown dead woman, mourning her unwitnessed passing, praying for the elf's soul to make its way to the afterlife if is has not arrived there already, and in one go asking forgiveness that they will be moving her remains, for proper burial. Weaving appropriate references to holy text and tradition through her little improvised speech, Sahabiel would seem at least competent at what she is doing? (OOC: Knowledge(Religion), d20+9 = 24)
Lothlo (WillD) -- AC: 20/15/16, HP: 45/45, CMD: 21 d20+12=20 ; Thursday August 19th, 2021 9:00:18 PM
As people start to wrap up their investigation of the body and talk turns to burial and prayer Lothlo starts to look at the other possible clues in the area. Before we bury her, let's take a look inside that leather satchel. I'm not sure that there is anything to be learned from these bones, but I feel it would be disrespectful to bury her before the investigation is complete. Besides, at the very least it may give us something more personal we can add to here eulogy.
Lothlo cautiously examines the satchel and it's contents, being careful on the off chance that something that directly caused her death is inside. perception = 20
Naithi (JamesD) AC: 19/14/17 HP: 20/23 , CMD = 16 Thursday August 19th, 2021 9:03:13 PM I think she deserves a special send off, to help the community bond, grieve and heal together.
ooc: I think this is a good time to develope some funereal rites or burial traditions. I previously had an idea, but I think the river runs the wrong way now.
DM Kathy Thursday August 19th, 2021 10:20:29 PM Ash declares that the bones should have a proper burial. She and Zazu realize that the new community will need a cemetery. Nightingale wonders if it should be right here, which may not be entirely convenient, given the existing plans for the town. Of course, plans can be changed if necessary. Naithi thinks the funeral should be something special.
Sahabiel says a prayer, in elven, over the remains, somewhat to Beech's relief, since he doesn't have to come up with something.
But then, just when the DM was afraid the party was losing the plot altogether, Lothlo thinks to examine the contents of the satchel. There aren't many. Lothlo finds the spot where some enterprising rodents had chewed a hole in the thing, and doubtless removed some of its contents. You find a spare shirt, a hat and gloves, and a letter, sealed with wax. On the front of the letter is an address in Karri.
Sahabiel (EstherLauren) -- AC 22/11/21 -- HP: 40/40 Friday August 20th, 2021 5:37:01 AM
Sahabiel curiously raises an eyebrow at Lothlo. "'Course ya should. She's not in the ground yet and won't be fer a while, but only respectful to offer sendoff prayer afore rummaging through their effects, ya agree?"
When the search of the bag produces a letter, she offers that if the party chooses to read its contents, she would be able to restore the wax seal after breaking it, as long as it were not sealed with magic.
(OOC: Detect Magic on the wax sealed letter, and the rest of the contents of the satchel while she is at it since it is all in a field of view spell anyway. If the letter and seal are mundane, she can just cleanly break the wax and then afterwards speak a prayer of Mending over it, or if that doesn't cut it, just give her a day and she can petition for Make Whole.)
Zazu (AC18, HP25/25) and Boyo the bunny (AC16, HP12) (Cayzle) Friday August 20th, 2021 8:54:12 AM
"Well, wait a minute," says Zazu. "This is not an enemy. It's a dead person. How is it cool to go through their mail? Not cool at all! We should just deliver it to the address, and not open it! How would we like it if it were our message, and we were the dead person here?"
"Plus maybe this address can help us alert the next of kin, and we can explain that we did right by this person, and maybe they'll want to come here to pay their respects or inter the remains elsewhere."
Lothlo (WillD) -- AC: 20/15/16, HP: 45/45, CMD: 21 d20+3=13 ; d20+3=21 ; Friday August 20th, 2021 9:05:03 PM
Lothlo looks over the letter that was in the satchel.
Before we break the seal, let's see if anyone recognizes the address or the wax seal. It seems everyone in the Emerald City is affiliated with one organization or another, the last thing we want is to anger someone in the Thieves guild. And with half the town already worried about bad omens, we don't want to make morale even worse by opening the letter and giving another reason for people to speculate about angering the dead. Besides, it's not that far of a trip, we can have it delivered in no time.
Lothlo looks to see if he knows anything about the address or the wax seal on it. knowledge (geography)=13 knowledge (local)=21
DM Kathy Friday August 20th, 2021 11:58:11 PM
When you find the letter, Sahabiel is all for opening and reading it to learn more.
Zazu, however, points out that it's rude to open other peoples' mail. Maybe you should just deliver it?
Lothlo examines the letter and the seal. The seal is plain, with no crest or anything embossed in it. You don't recognize anything noteworthy about the address.
Zazu (AC18, HP25/25) and Boyo the bunny (AC16, HP12) (Cayzle) Saturday August 21st, 2021 1:52:45 AM
"We should deliver it. But we can be cautious and investigate the address in Kari when we get there."
"We need to go to there to talk to our contacts anyway. Two birds, one stone."
Sahabiel (EstherLauren) -- AC 22/11/21 -- HP: 40/40 Saturday August 21st, 2021 10:12:28 AM (OOC: Would Karri be a place that she should know about? I searched the wiki and it had no mentions at all)
Sahabiel is not particularly driving for the letter to be opened, being seemingly content in having offered her service in making it unobtrusive if the party were inclined to read the missive before delivering it. In fact, she seems to have other things on her mind..
"Unless 'tis such an urgency that ya will be leaving again today, might I call on our acquaintance and ask for a few pointers around this place? In havin' to attend this matter from the moment I arrived here, I kind of do not even know yet if there is a place around here that will board me and Kohlrabi, or where to buy a good meal?"
Beech (JohnC) AC 14(18)/14/14,HP 11/20 Character Saturday August 21st, 2021 12:51:26 PM
At the mention of buying a meal, Beech laughs, rather loudly, like he needed it, it was a good old fashioned belly laugh. "I'm sorry for that." He says after stopping his laughing."It's the notion of buying a meal that set me off, we are currently subsisting as a group. I know it'll change once we get more of the place set up, but for now, everyone contributes in some way."
Ash (RobC) -- AC 12/12/10 -- CMD 12 -- HP 41/41 Saturday August 21st, 2021 10:49:57 PM "I agree with Zazu. Let's deliver it - unopened - to the recipient. Kari is the sort of place we could find leads on Myre"
Naithi (JamesD) AC: 19/14/17 HP: 20/23 , CMD = 16 Monday August 23rd, 2021 8:18:56 AM I'm all for not opening the mail, but I'm beginning to get uneasy about leaving the town. Is there anything we can do to increase is safety before we head out again?
Nightingale (JonS) HP 27/27 AC 18 CMD: 21 Monday August 23rd, 2021 11:29:48 AM
Nightingale agrees with Ash, "Leaving it as it is and delivering it would be a sound choice. Depending on how far this place is, it might provide an insight into resources nearby to help the community"
Sahabiel (EstherLauren) -- AC 22/11/21 -- HP: 40/40 Monday August 23rd, 2021 3:53:40 PM
Sahabiel shrugs and mock-pouts as Beech asserts that it will be a while before this settlement can provide anything like what she had hoped it would. "Fine, fine.. I suppose I'll forage for ingredients myself, and then find someone that knows how to cook something with them."
"If ya don't mind, I am not trying to listen in on yer conversation, but where is Karri and who is this Myre? Sorry if I am asking something obvious, but I am rather unfamiliar here."
Lothlo (WillD) -- AC: 20/15/16, HP: 45/45, CMD: 21 Monday August 23rd, 2021 9:15:55 PM
Lothlo give a shrug at the mention of increasing the town safety. Safety has been a concern since day one, I'm not sure there's any low hanging fruit left. That said, this letter has been waiting for quite some time, a few days won't make much difference. If you are concerned, we can check the plans for our instrument of building, and if there are any upcoming protection related projects we can delay a short while until those are complete.
That said, I feel that the biggest dangers in these parts right now are targeting us specifically, and not the town itself. The town might very well be safer with us gone a few days, especially if the Thieves Guild catches wind that we have taken their warning to heart and are trying to give them a wide berth.
Zazu (AC18, HP25/25) and Boyo the bunny (AC16, HP12) (Cayzle) Monday August 23rd, 2021 11:06:21 PM
Zazu is happy to fill in details of the party's history for Sahabiel and Nightingale.
"Karri is another name for the Emerald City, the capital of the Emerald Kingdom. It is located downriver from us."
"Myre is one of the former slaves who escaped with us from the orc tribe, then went back with us to rescue the rest of the slaves. We ended up destroying the male warriors of the tribe, and adopted the females. That's why our community is about half orc ladies and the rest former slaves."
"Anyway, Myre was kidnapped. At first we were sure it was the Thieves' Guild. Now we are not so sure. To tell the truth, it is very confusing ..."
[OOC: Myre is also a former (now retired) player character.]
DM Kathy Monday August 23rd, 2021 11:44:08 PM Nightingale agrees with Zazu that the letter should just be delivered. Ash also agrees, and points out that you might get some clues about Myre.
Naithi is also for delivering the letter, but worries about leaving Freedom's Landing unprotected. Lothlo points out that you might very well be taking the danger with you.
Sahabiel requests backstory, which is thoughtfully provided. She asks about a place to stay and get a meal, which amuses Beech a bit. Indeed Freedom's Landing is currently a group of mismatched tents clustered around a couple of plain wooden buildings, one half-finished. There is no inn, or any business of any kind, and living seems to be very communal.
Sahabiel offers to forage, but there is no need at present. Naithi prepared part of last night's supper, so by unspoken understanding, cooking is someone else's chore tonight. Soon, you are all tucking into a savory rabbit stew, served with flatbread and fresh plums.
The newcomers can readily find a place to lay their heads tonight, and you all sleep well. Clouds roll in overnight, and there's a little rain, but the overcast is almost gone by the time you finish breakfast.
Beech (JohnC) AC 14(18)/14/14,HP 20/20 Character Tuesday August 24th, 2021 1:17:17 PM
Beech checks on the construction efforts and suggests at least making a tie up for passing barges. They may stop and have trade goods the town needs, and could also take requests for stuff the town needs without the town actually doing the traveling to the city ourselves..
Sahabiel (EstherLauren) -- AC 22/11/21 -- HP: 40/40 Tuesday August 24th, 2021 7:09:10 PM
If no foraging is needed, Sahabiel explores the encampment (or accepts a tour of it if anyone is offering), helping out with little things where she can. She hopes its people will get to recognize her face, so that in the future she will be able to come and go without being seen as a stranger.
Ash (RobC) -- AC 12/12/10 -- CMD 12 -- HP 41/41 Tuesday August 24th, 2021 8:45:59 PM
Ash checks in with Codru and a few of the other 'leaders' to let them know a little more about the dead body. She's not sure what to say exactly but wants to try and convey that there is no immediate threat and that the party are going to try and honor what they believe might be the deceased's last wishes by delivering the letter.
Since it looks like the party will be travelling to Kovri she checks to see if there is anything that the settlement requires that they might buy while there.
Lothlo (WillD) -- AC: 20/15/16, HP: 45/45, CMD: 21 d20+6=12 ; Tuesday August 24th, 2021 9:16:01 PM I'll talk to a few of the local Fey, see if anyone can tell us about what was happening in the forest around that time. It may be hoping too much that they remember her specifically, but they may be able to tell us what kind of people were in the are at the time.
LOG ON