Drotar Zaviyar (Robert S) AC 14/12/12 CMD 16 HP 14 d20=5 ; Tuesday December 14th, 2021 6:24:13 PM
It turns out that non one, but both of his sets of cold weather gear had holes in them. Drotar hunches miserably in a corner, looking for all the world like a bear fallen victim to a poorly placed dunk tank, when Beni comes over and helps lift his spirits.
Eating helps lift his spirits too, and reefclaw is a dish he's rarely been able to have, mostly being reserved for the upper echelons of the area, and those who can hunt it themselves. Washing his meal down with a skin of watered-down wine, he sees the pirates with the rest of the group.
"So how do we want to do this? If there's two there's probably more we can't see. And who knows what they're here for."
(Will: 5 FAIL)
Isaac Harker (Justin M) HP 24/24 AC18/ T12 / FF 16 Tuesday December 14th, 2021 10:06:31 PM
Isaac watches and decides to see if the two circling them are evil. I wasn't a garantee but maybe these two thought his group were pirates. Isaac uses detect evil and looks at the two people.
Kristoph: (Stephen C) | AC:17 | CMD:21 | HP: 14/17 - Con drained! - Blusinda: AC:12 | HP:16/16 Wednesday December 15th, 2021 2:35:26 AM
Kristoph casts bless
Gore'Thum and Teddy Treeborn (Mitch) HP 12/12 AC 12/11/12 CMD 11 Gore'Thum HP 10/16 AC 12/12/11 Wednesday December 15th, 2021 7:51:26 AM
Gore'Thum takes the direct approach. "We see you. Come out. State intentions." he calls to the dark and the two men. Teddy winces and hides behind the frog anxious.
DM JamesM: Day 3 - Morning 7:45 AM - Carnage (Map) Wednesday December 15th, 2021 8:52:07 AM
The fire crackled pleasantly as Blucinda ate away at the rain soak debris they scavenged from the area, clouds overhead darkened as the last remaining rays of sun passed below the horizon, and the sounds of night creatures started. Being that it was winter those last sounds were minimal, but enough to provide a pleasant "white" noise in the background and even cover the sounds of sneaky pirates moving in the grass.
Though everyone was alerted to the presence of the pirates, the hidden figures didn't seem to have noticed until Benni spoke about sentries and others around them.
Low Light Vision, Darkvision, or Perception DC15 Highlight to display spoiler: {At benni's statement one of the pirates immediately headed back to the boat. The other apparently saw through the elfs ruse but wasn't going to stay and try his hand against so many. He too ran for the boat.}
Isaac reached out with his god given senses once more to try and detect evil. He knew that evil was like an axe chopping away at a tree. One chip here, another there, until any intention of cutting the tree down was moot as it was done. So too was evil with many smaller sins adding up until one's heart was totally given over to the black tide.
Issac Highlight to display spoiler: {Though Isaac knew the pirates were close enough, their hearts were not yet black enough to register as evil.}
By the time Gore'Thrum issued his challenge the sound of the boat sliding back out into the water was heard by everyone....the pirates were gone.
The rest of the night was quiet until just before dawn when screams of anguish echoed across the swamp. The screams were visceral and full of fright that shook everyone to their core. Whether or not the sounds left you shaken those feelings passed after a short while as the first rays of the sun lit the landscape around them. It was going to be another twilit day it seemed.
It was about then when they saw another boat floating twenty to thirty yards out into the swamp. Even from here you could see the blood from the carnage inside dripping over the edge of the gunwale into the water a short distance below it.
Snark Riverstone (MarkB) AC13 T13 F10, CMD 11, HP 15/15 d20+6=7 ; Wednesday December 15th, 2021 11:40:30 AM
Snark can see the two run off in the night. "Aww, dang it! You scared 'em off Benni. Now we don't have their boat."
In the morning, he sees the carnage on the water. "OK, the water's a bad idea. And I don't think we need that boat anymore."
"Who here votes to go back and tell everyone we couldn't find their stupid plant?" He raises his hand and looks around.
Assuming others still want to press on, Snark resigns himself to the task.
"Fine. I'll just tell myself that whatever got them only attacks at night. I'm sure not goin' out there at night. Maybe we can paddle around near the shore 'til we find this Island of Doom."
The little gnome squints into the distance, trying to see anything beyond the murder boat. (Perception 7)
He packs up his gear and casts Prestidigitation on everyone to get them warm and dry. He also periodically casts Resistance on himself since it only has a 1 minute duration.
“Benni” AC 18/11/17 CMD12 HP 13/13 Onesimos (SteveK) Wednesday December 15th, 2021 2:54:21 PM
Onesimos feels like he let down the team: Snark had a point and the elf resolves to remember that not every solution involves being open.
It’s a shock seeing the blood and boat in the morning. He tries to comfort Snark and the others. ”we are only here temporarily in the Wold. So while we are here, we should decide to take decision and actions that assist others. Let’s move on!”
The elf adjusts his spell repartiore and, after a little washing of the boat, is ready.
Tae-Che (Jim) HP 9/9 AC 12/12/10 CMD 13 d20+2=10 ; Wednesday December 15th, 2021 8:56:21 PM
Tae Che also noticed the pirates(?) approaching but with everyone else commenting decided to keep quiet just in case they didn't realize how many of us there are. In the morning, she stokes the fire along with Bluesinda's assist and helps out where she can, getting ready to continue onward for the Spirit Woad they needed to locate.
Einar (StevenVdB) - HP27/27 - AC18/13/15 - CMD 18 Thursday December 16th, 2021 8:00:45 AM
Einar was a bit dissapointed that the pirates did not push for an attack... it would have been a welcome escape from this hideous swamp.
Hearing the scream Einar refrains from just running away from here... when Snark suggests returning to the village he almost raises a hand... but that's perhaps not what WLA members should do. The bloody carnage clearly proves this swamp is full of danger and they have not seen the slightest of it. A shiver runs down his spine... he holds his blade readied and the rope around his shoulder just in case.
Gore'Thum and Teddy Treeborn (Mitch) HP 12/12 AC 12/11/12 CMD 11 Gore'Thum HP 10/16 AC 12/12/11 Thursday December 16th, 2021 8:12:40 AM
Gore'Thum snorts his derision at the now fled pirates. Teddy seems relieved.
DM JamesM: Day 3 - Morning 8:30 AM - Carnage (Map) Thursday December 16th, 2021 8:59:19 AM
The morning was cold and brisk but clear to the horizon as they loaded up in the one boat. Once all were aboard the boat sat dangerously low in the water as they shoved off across the way towards the bloodied pirate boat.
They approached the other boat and the small bit of land next to it. There in the grasses a short distance away was a shovel and a chest waiting to be placed into a hole for safekeeping. The inside of the boat and part of the small grassy island was red with blood and body parts.
KS: Nature DC 14 or KS: Religion DC 19(15 if Maab) Highlight to display spoiler: {You can see that several thorns are embedded in the bodies of the dead. It's evidence that a corrupted Fey creature known as a Forlarren is active in the swamp.}
Survival DC 15 Highlight to display spoiler: {Whatever killed these men came out of the water and onto the land. You can see it had a strange webbed foot that had hoof like properties.}
The second boat is empty except for an arm and a leg thrown about inside it. There's a second shovel and a piece of bloodied parchment with a stylus in the bow.
Snark grips the boat in a deathgrip as they go. "Geez you guys, be careful. I not really a swimmer. They called me Riverstone for a reason."
As the grizzly scene in the boat comes into view, Snark peers in. "Ohh, look at those thorns. I'm guessing they were killed by a Forlarren. It's a corrupted Fey creature. Must be one nearby, so keep an eye out."
Speaking of keeping an eye out, Snark will assist another on their survival roll, +2. He also looks around (Perception 12.)
DM JamesM: Yuletide in the Spirit Swamp Thursday December 16th, 2021 2:21:40 PM
The chest turned out to have an assortment of coin that if counted out was about 100 gp in value and was lined with an oil cloth to keep out moisture. Getting that loaded was easy enough as they pushed off once more. Whether they decided to take the extra boat or not travel was easy enough as they rounded the small island and saw the standing stone island some distance ahead. Beyond that they could make out a cloud rushing across the ground like a large wall of fog from edge to edge on the horizon.
The fog was bearing down on them quickly and before they could do little more than mark their course they were in the thick of it. Those that had marked their destination in their minds directed the boats forward, but it wasn't but a short time before complications arose.
Suddenly however the small boat hit a wooden wall with a loud thunk. They'd hit a ship floating out here in the marsh, swamp, whatever and they were close enough to the bow to read HMS Vengence on the side of the boat. From above in the fog there was a welcoming yellow light shining from over the rail.
Since the ship hadn't been here a moment before they all knew that something supernatural was at work. Even so that dread they had all been feeling was gone. Like a heavy weight lifted from their chests they could once more breathe easily. Then of course there was the warm light above.
A short climb to the deck and they saw that the ship had no crew, everyone or anyone aboard was gone, yet pleasant music drifted up from the hold. As one of you peered down into it you could see a lavish feast was laid out on a table there with a jolly looking red headed pirate seated at the table. Braziers were set about the hold to warm it from the freezing temperatures outside. Above you and hanging from the mast was a lantern that cut through the fog to the railing. Beyond the rail there was nothing but solid impenetrable fog.
"Come, come. the food is getting cold and you need to get warm." said the pirate in a hearty voice. "You may have heard of me. I'm Red Beard the terrible. Terrible at what you might ask, surviving one might say. I've been cursed to roam this swamp looking for my treasure, but today it seems the powers have set another task for me. Come! Sit, Eat and tell me the tales of the day. You never know, you might even have some clues as my booty."
“Benni” AC 18/11/17 CMD12 HP 13/13 Onesimos (SteveK) Thursday December 16th, 2021 3:36:04 PM
Onesimos finds it harrowing to get to the other boat, learn of monsters that he has never heard of, and then travel through the misty swamp. The boats literally bumping into what his mind can only describe as a ghost pirate ship makes Benni get the willies!
Invited aboard, the elf looks at his companions helplessly and then bravely climbs up to the deck. ” Um, hello. I am called Benni among our group, it is, um, nice to meet you?”
Snark Riverstone (MarkB) AC13 T13 F10, CMD 11, HP 15/15 Thursday December 16th, 2021 4:44:38 PM
Snark struggles to climb aboard.
"Durn idgets! Why don't they make ladders sized for us little folk!"
"Oh, hey Red. Glad to meet you I think. Hey we got some bad news - if you sent a couple of yer folk out in a boat, I don't think they're coming back. We, uh, it seems like they had treasure. Is this what you're lookin' for out here?"
The gnome gestures to the small chest the pirates were going to bury.
"Hey - you're probably a well travelled guy. What do you know about Forlarren? My lore tells me they're some sorta corrupted Fey creature, but that seems kinda redundant to me. "
Does Snark know anymore about Forlarren given his roll?
DM JamesM: Yuletide in the Spirit Swamp Thursday December 16th, 2021 5:00:41 PM "Treasure?" ole Red Beard said as he perked up to look at the chest. "Arr. No. Me treasure were bigger than dat. Three steamer trunks o' gold with mithril armor and weapons fer all types. Gems too. Lost me map though, ole John Longneck had it last I heard, but he lost it too. Gargul rest his soul. As fer Forlarren, never heard o' any in a swamp. Mayhap in a forest. Dem beasties some kinda nymph, right?"
Isaac Harker (Justin M) HP 24/24 AC18/ T12 / FF 16 d20+9=18 ; d20=19 ; Thursday December 16th, 2021 5:40:09 PM
Isaac had told the others after they found the pirates in the morning "I didn't sense dark heats in them but you never know with people what their intentions are." Know Religion:18 Survival:19 Isaac wasn't sure what could come out of the water and have hooves in this swamp but whatever it was it had killed these men. He also takes a share of the gold. No sense in leaving it behind.
On The strange pirate ship Isaac is more curious about Red Beard from the sound of it he was cursed to give support to travelers. Isaac decided that friendly or not he needed to be sure and focused on detecting evil in the ship. If Isaac doesn't detect anything he sit's down and ask Red Beard "So cursed ? would you mind telling that tale?"
Tae-Che (Jim) HP 9/9 AC 12/12/10 CMD 13 Thursday December 16th, 2021 6:24:33 PM
Tae Che takes her share of treasure, if allowed and when they bump into the big boat, climbs aboard. She is happy to be much higher than the level of the swamp. When Red Beard invites them all to the feast, she's not one to say no. She thanks the pirate for the scrumptious meal and drink and tells the tale of how she traveled down to Heranmar on a large ship and then getting together with the rest of the group at the tavern.
DM JonS: OMG Moment Friday December 17th, 2021 3:18:53 AM I'm almost done with this term's final project, then I shall endeavor to roast the brave, oh, no wait, wrong group, um, oh yes, help the brave adventurers during this time of food, drink, hot bath water, and a cute ghost doggie named "Chunk".
Gore'Thum and Teddy Treeborn (Mitch) HP 12/12 AC 12/11/12 CMD 11 Gore'Thum HP 10/16 AC 12/12/11 Friday December 17th, 2021 7:51:51 AM
Gore'Thum thanks the captain and explains the parties own mission. Teddy clarifies anything tthat's unclear in Gore'Thum's blunt, choppy common.
DM JamesM: Yuletide in the Spirit Swamp Friday December 17th, 2021 9:48:58 AM "Truth be told. Arr..who wouldn't tell der truth..Me crew an I were battlin' ole Johnny Blackhand. Yer might be knowin' 'im as Capt'n John Breckinridge 'o the navy 'round here. Yer see der we were ridin' high on der seas we'd jest sent most 'o 'is crew ter visit ole Davy Bones when ole Johnny stepped out wit dis magic stick. He waved it about and slammed it on de deck, jest up dere." Red Beard pointed up and aft.
"Next ting I know sum sea monster swallows me ship whole. So it's me an ole Johnny on the deck facin' off like two duelists. Him wit 'is stick. Me wit be sward. He goes and utters an oath on dat stick an I slide me blade right through 'is gut. Imma tinkin', self how'm I gonna sail dis ship all by meself when I notice dis black spot on me hand. Bout den I know ole Johnny cursed me, but I got sum control o' der ship too, so I knows I got dis do dad in me buried treasure ter help me out 'o dis watery prison so I'm looking fer it 'ere in dis swamp. So's yesterday or thereabouts.." he pauses as if he's trying to sort out exactly how long, but it's unclear to him. "Gargul 'isself plants 'is feet right dere." he pointed at where the table sat. "Says himself. Ole Red Beard, you a terrible evil scallywag an' imma make certain yer chained ter the Vengence fer eternity. Sittin' here alone wit only yer evil thoughts fer company, but imma give yer a chance cuz imma not all bad, he says. So's Gargul says dere dees young people an dis evil thing in my swamp. Iffin' I lift 'em up and get all warm like ter send 'em on dere way he'll see his way ter givin' me some peace. Now, I've been 'ere a long time searchin' and I'm knackered. Imma also been tinkin on my doin's and Gargul was right. I were an evil ole scallywag, so 'ere ahm tryin' ter make it right wit that black blagerd of death....an 'ave a bit of a talk wit' people too."
Sense Motive DC 15 Highlight to display spoiler: {Red Beard seems sincere and truly wanting to change his ways.}
Red Beard lifted a bottle of wine and said. "Cheers! Here's ter mended ways!"
Einar (StevenVdB) - HP27/27 - AC18/13/15 - CMD 18 d20+6=16 ; Friday December 17th, 2021 1:59:03 PM
(wow that many DM posts in a day... trying to keep track... ) (Know nature 16)
Einar too saw the carnage being the result of a Forlarren. Something he heard of but never actually seen before. Then the pirate ship pops up... with C'pn Red Beard. Einar listens and listens and as he does his eye grow wider and wider as he tries to understand what the man's saying...
Kristoph is weirded out by the ghost ship and gives the pirate a sideways look. He's not buying it...
Tae-Che (Jim) HP 9/9 AC 12/12/10 CMD 13 d20+2=19 ; Friday December 17th, 2021 8:54:51 PM
Tae Che listens to the pirate's story and joins in his toast to changing ways. [Sense Motive: 19]
Isaac Harker (Justin M) HP 24/24 AC18/ T12 / FF 16 d20=16 ; Friday December 17th, 2021 10:21:58 PM
Isaac listen to the tale and it seemed genuine to him people changed it was in their nature while this Red Beard probably had still a lot to answer for he seemed to be trying and that was good enough for Isaac. He wasn't the best at judging people but in this case he felt that he could trust the salty specter. He tells Red Beard "Thank you for the hospitality this swamp is a gloom place and a safe place to get warm and have a meal is welcomed." Isaac raises a glass" To mended ways" Isaac takes a sip of the drink and some food and starts to eat.
Snark Riverstone (MarkB) AC13 T13 F10, CMD 11, HP 15/15 d20+2=7 ; Saturday December 18th, 2021 1:13:00 AM
(Sense Motive 7)
"Well Red - Can I call you Red?- that's quite a tale. Say, this is a nice place to rest for a bit. It seems pretty cozy in here compared to that swamp we been in. And it's kind of you to lay out this food.
"So, we're in a bit of a pickle out here. See, we come out here to save some folks and get some plant they need. Do you suppose you could ferrry us over to the island we need to find? Well, after we rest some. And maybe get cleaned up. Ooo, that food looks good!
"Really any help or supplies you could offer at this point would be welcome."
Snark sits down at the table and piles on the food.
Kristoph: (Stephen C) | AC:17 | CMD:21 | HP: 14/17 - Con drained! - Blusinda: AC:12 | HP:16/16 Sunday December 19th, 2021 5:02:54 AM
seeing some of the party toast Red, Kristoph isn't one to be rude and joins in.
"I'm not understanding why Gargul would offer you peace for assisting us" ... Raising an eyebrow he continues: "But since when have us mere mortals truly understood the whim of the gods? My beliefs aside you've done nothing but show us hospitality and for that I'm thankful. Raising his cup he adds: "May You find salvation".
The drink warms him and before realising he has reached for some food. He nods 'thanks' as he chews.
"We were tasked to see if some locals were in trouble here, but seeing the nature of the place I think they are with Gargul themselves now"!
Kristoph: (Stephen C) | AC:17 | CMD:21 | HP: 16/17 - Con drained! - Blusinda: AC:12 | HP:16/16 Sunday December 19th, 2021 5:10:28 AM
(Header adjustment)
--- -1 Con (drained from spike, recovered 1 point overnight)
“Benni” AC 18/11/17 CMD12 HP 13/13 Onesimos (SteveK) d20+8=10 ; Sunday December 19th, 2021 8:14:00 AM
Onesimos listens to Red Beard’s story, impressed dispite his wariness. He can’t really tell if the old pirate is on the straight and level, but he doesn’t remember many unreformed people speaking of redemption. Snark talks enough for them all, and Benni smiles and nods: he is quite happy with the arrangement. After all, Snark, while getting some used-to, has turned out to be an excellent companion and more often right than not.
The brown-haired elf smoothed his damp and muddy hair away from his eyes and relaxes his muscles, one by one.
Einar (StevenVdB) - HP27/27 - AC18/13/15 - CMD 18 Sunday December 19th, 2021 2:50:16 PM
Einar isn't the smartest from the group... he's genuinly puzzled about what's going on now... He whispers to his friends : "Just point me towards the danger is... ok?"
Tae-Che (Jim) HP 9/9 AC 12/12/10 CMD 13 Sunday December 19th, 2021 7:13:23 PM
Tae Che continues to accept the hospitality of the pirate captain, though she wonders if this might actually be some sort of communal dream...
DM JonS: OMG Moment Monday December 20th, 2021 2:42:47 AM
Red Beard watches the group for a moment then taps the side of his nose, "Arrr lad. 'Might being able to get ye to that isle, but for the moment, this old girl is beached. When the tides favor us, then we'll see what can be done. For now, eat, drink, rest. Me home may smell of sea and salt and damp, but she's warmly built. There be wash tubs loaded with hot water, which may not stay hot in this clime, I say, clean, get warm, and snug up in a hammock. And if'n your seeing a three-legged dog, 'is name is Chunk, he's mostly harmless. Hasn't eaten a shoe nor boot in many a moon..."
“Benni” AC 18/11/17 CMD12 HP 13/13 Onesimos (SteveK) Monday December 20th, 2021 1:31:43 PM
Onesimos takes up Red Beard’s hospitality, and gets a good bath, good meal, and good bed.
Ooc: hey all, I’m going to take advantage of the slow down. See everyone in January!
Isaac Harker (Justin M) HP 24/24 AC18/ T12 / FF 16 Monday December 20th, 2021 11:05:36 PM
Isaac decides to also take Red beard up on his offer the swamp and the cold had drained him and he was looking forward to the bath.
Drotar Zaviyar (Robert S) AC 14/12/12 CMD 16 HP 14 Tuesday December 21st, 2021 7:54:52 PM
Drotar happily accepts the offer of rest and recuperation
(OOC: I'm also gonna go with the slow down. Finals took a lot out of me and they only just ended last week)
Kristoph: (Stephen C) | AC:17 | CMD:21 | HP: 19/19 - Blusinda: AC:12 | HP:16/16 Wednesday December 22nd, 2021 6:54:04 AM
===== 'Kristoph's Journal: (Month: One - Heranmar)' ===== After the depressing swamp, constant drizzle, being soaked for most of time and finding multiple body parts it was a strange twist that found us safe and dry. We discovered (or maybe it found us??) a ship amidst the swamp, complete with an ex-pirate and story to boot! The hospitality he offered, hot baths, decent food and shelter was very welcome, maybe there is something in all this god business after all?!
The last night before we left town still weighs heavy on my mind. I don't know how to tell the party, but I feel I must, lest they judge me ill. How is it that having pledged to never kill anyone - I managed to kill five! Why does this curse follow me?
I am fortunate that there were people who put in good words, but part of me dreads returning to Heranmar, what will the rumour mill say about me now? ==========
Before long exhaustion claims Kristoph and he falls asleep in his hammock with Blusinda curled up on his lap and journal in hand.
Snark Riverstone (MarkB) AC13 T13 F10, CMD 11, HP 15/15 Wednesday December 22nd, 2021 12:19:59 PM
Snark keeps an eye out for the dog. He's had some bad experiences with dogs - they're big, they bite, and they tend to chase gnomes. He keeps track of his boots as he gets a bath.
Once out of the bath, Snark will use Prestidigitation to dry himself and clean his clothes. He also offers to clean his friends' gear with the cantrip if they wish. It's nice to have that awful mud and muck out of his shoes and clothes. And his hair. And his ears. Gnomes are not built for swamps.
He talks to Blusinda in halting Ignan, and works with Kristoph on his pronunciation.
Finally, he crawls into a hammock. As he settles in to sleep he says, "You know Red, I think you should open a Bed and Breakfast here in the swamp. You might not get many visitors, but those that do come would be mighty glad you're here. Thanks fer yer kindness and hospitality pal!"
DM JonS: OMG Moment Thursday December 23rd, 2021 1:43:04 AM OOC: I'll be around if anyone has any questions. I think after the New Year, I'll be in the drivers seat with James backseat-DM'ing ... have an awesome upcoming holiday ... and trust me, I completely agree with how draining finals can be.
Isaac Harker (Justin M) HP 24/24 AC18/ T12 / FF 16 Thursday December 23rd, 2021 6:33:55 PM
Isaac takes a much needed bath glad for some hot water and a chance to wash the grime away. To him magical cleaning always felt off. Isaac does ask before he goes to bed "You've been wandering this place for a long time I'm guessing do you remember the town close by Heranmar?"
DM JonS: OMG Moment Thursday December 30th, 2021 1:42:23 AM OOC: So we're back at it on Monday ... I'll be in the driver's seat, with James smacking me, oh wait, 'coaching me' on when I try to kill the party off ... or sic our pet Tarrasque on peeps ... hehehehehehe
Red Beard scratches under his chin while staring up at the ceiling, "Heranmar ye say. Hmmm, quaint, little port. The inn had good fish stew, and the maids were," he stops talking, looks at the females in the group and then clears his throat, "yep quaint place."
“Benni” AC 18/11/17 CMD12 HP 13/13 Onesimos (SteveK) Monday January 3rd, 2022 12:16:36 AM
Onesimos, warm, full, and refreshed, is again equipped and clothed for an adventure in the swamps south of Heranmar. Armed with good companions and more knowledge of the swamps, he looks forward to the group taking the two row boats in search of the cemetery where Spirit Woad is grown, and the Heranmar Woad Hunters who may still be alive.
The elf gives Red Beard a hearty handshake. ”You have been a blessing for us, good sir, and I will put in a good word with my patron for your eventual journey to the Lands of Rest,”
Gore'Thum and Teddy Treeborn (Mitch) HP 12/12 AC 12/11/12 CMD 11 Gore'Thum HP 10/16 AC 12/12/11 Monday January 3rd, 2022 7:04:04 AM
Gore'Thum starts paying attention again.
Einar (StevenVdB) - HP27/27 - AC18/13/15 - CMD 18 Monday January 3rd, 2022 2:26:52 PM
Still clueless on the why and how this pirate ship ends up here in the swamp Einar walks on deck watching the surroundings. Last night has been very welcome. Finally warmth found its way back to his little toe as well... The swamp, the boat, the warm bath in a place where one least expects to finding a warm bath... it's as if the are stuck in a different reality and Einar just waits waking up.
DM JonS: Swampy Goodness d10=7 ; Monday January 3rd, 2022 5:02:03 PM
You all awaken to the smells of fresh bread, baked eggs and cheese, fried fish cakes, and of course rum-spiked swamp berry juice. Red Beard and Chunk seem to be in fine spirits, "Arrg me brave lads and lasses, this our last meal together. Chunk has sniffed out a possible location of me treasure so it's time for our passing. Your boat was a meager thing, so I've decided to gift you me last tender. She's a well-crafted craft. Chunk made sure it was loaded with victuals, and whatever spare equipment that wasn't too destroyed. Now, some things may be a tad chewed on, but that's Chunk's way of saying goodbye."
After the meal, Red Beard shows you the 'tender'. It's made for about a dozen people and is used to go from ship to shore. Though the paint has faded, you can easily tell that it is in better shape than the boat you had found. Inside is enough food for the next three days or so. There are also several lengths of hemp rope (50', 3 lengths), as well, sailcloth sleeping covers (think pup-tents). One last item is a battered lantern. It stands about a foot tall and is circular in shape. The front and back are flat. There is a cover for the front, and when it is opened it reveals a purple light - powered by a glowing amethyst. There's a note attached that states, "Chunk is scared of the dark, so this is his gift to ye, so that you path may be always lit."
Using the boat, you move back into the swamp. As the pirate's ship vanishes, the cold and damp, and mists surround you once again. It does appear that you have moved based on the terrain you see.
As the mists surround the boat and Red Beard's ship vanishes, the party realizes that Drotar is not aboard with them ... several minutes of fruitless rowing shows that the ship is gone and that the large Half-Orc has gone with it
Drotar awakens to Chunk's ghostly tongue slapping him in the face. Red Beard has a shocked look on his face ... "Lad, yer not 'possed to be here. The waters have cleared and Chunk thinks he found treasure." Red Beard sighs and pinches the bridge of his nose. "Ok, look. Ye better stay with us, for a little while longer, if nothing else, we can drop you off at another port, should the winds favor us" ...
Drotar awakens to the sound of someone banging on something wooden. His head feeling the pounding of a hangover, Drotar realizes he is in a room, a bedroom. A voice calls out, "Sir, are you still alive, we haven't seen you in a few days..." fade to black
Tae-Che (Jim) HP 9/9 AC 12/12/10 CMD 13 Monday January 3rd, 2022 8:54:03 PM
Tae Che thanks the Captain with a hug and kiss on the cheek along with tousling Chunk's fur a bit. She smiles when she sees the 'tender' boat and it being loaded with all types of goodies.
She settles into a spot on the boat and keeps an eye out for any dangers that might approach.
Snark Riverstone (MarkB) AC13 T13 F10, CMD 11, HP 15/15 Monday January 3rd, 2022 11:59:32 PM
Snark enjoys this final meal with their kind host, made even better by sharing it with his new found friends. But the little gnome still steers clear of the dog.
"Hey Red - yer a pretty good guy for somebody that got crosswise with the Lord of Death. Thanks for the rest and all the victuals. And the boat! Wow!"
Snark is really glad to have a bigger boat as he climbs down into the tender. That small boat was making him really nervous. "This may be a nasty, scary death swamp. But right now, it don't seem so bad. See ya around Red." He waves goodbye as we push off.
Gore'Thum and Teddy Treeborn (Mitch) HP 12/12 AC 12/11/12 CMD 11 Gore'Thum HP 10/16 AC 12/12/11 Tuesday January 4th, 2022 7:19:56 AM
Gore'Thum and Teddy thank the captain for the hospitality. Gore'Thum blesses him in the name of the master (not a spell just RP) while Teddy feels much more relaxed about the scary forest now. It's got some nice people in it and it can't be all bad.
Einar (StevenVdB) - HP27/27 - AC18/13/15 - CMD 18 d20+5=14 ; Tuesday January 4th, 2022 2:09:54 PM
Following the rest of the group Einar too bids Red Beard safe passing and boards their new boat. When the damp cold engulfs the barbarian yet again he longingly looks behind him but the pirate ship is already gone...
Back to business... (perception 14)
DM JonS: Swampy Goodness Tuesday January 4th, 2022 2:11:18 PM OOC: Who's rowing and who's watching for underwater issues, and/or watching the shoreline ... Thanks ...
Isaac Harker (Justin M) HP 24/24 AC18/ T12 / FF 16 Tuesday January 4th, 2022 6:37:56 PM
Isaac shakes Red Beards hand and gives Chunk a chin scratch "Thank you for the hospitality it feels we've rested peacefully for the first time in awhile." He boards the new boat and finds a strange party favor in his pocket strange where did that come from he thought. He helps row the boat as they move through the swamp.
Snark Riverstone (MarkB) AC13 T13 F10, CMD 11, HP 15/15 d20+6=17 ; d20+9=18 ; Tuesday January 4th, 2022 7:01:25 PM
Snark says, "I'm pretty sure that if I'm one of the rowers we'll be going in circles pretty quick. but I can keep a lookout for trouble."
He moves to the front of the boat. He looks at the purple lantern. He uses Detect Magic to see if he can learn any particular schools of magic, and what the properties of the thing might be (Spellcraft 18, so up to item caster level 3.)
Once the rowers are in place and we start moving, Snark will keep a sharp eye out, alternating between watching for shoreline for any sign of movement and looking into the water for threats from below. (Perception 17)
He gets out some breadcrumbs and if any larger fish appear, the gnome will try to lure them up with some food and then cast Speak With Animals to see if he can learn about a nearby island or any threats in the water.
“Benni” AC 18/11/17 CMD12 HP 13/13 Onesimos (SteveK) Wednesday January 5th, 2022 7:10:29 AM
Onesimos gladly volunteers to row. ”my knowledge of the wilderness and things catching my eye are both very low, so I can help best by providing means of movement!”
Gore'Thum and Teddy Treeborn (Mitch) HP 12/12 AC 12/11/12 CMD 11 Gore'Thum HP 10/16 AC 12/12/11 Wednesday January 5th, 2022 7:16:35 AM
Teddy and Gore'Thum are just along for the ride.
DM JonS: Swampy Goodness Wednesday January 5th, 2022 3:39:40 PM
Whatever boon Red Beard and his ship offered appears to have worn off as you get closer to land. As you row the boat through the water of the swamp in the cold misty rainy mess that the Spirit Swamp was known for that sense of dread returns.
Fort Save DC 15 on Fail Highlight to display spoiler: {The cold, the dread, whatever it is has affected you. You 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.}
Trevvor’s directions aside you were finding it terribly difficult to find your way and it looked like you might end up camping in a bunch of marsh grass on the bank when you think you see a structure in the distance.
Perception DC 20 Highlight to display spoiler: {This could be the standing stone location Trevvor mentioned. It could also be the Monument Graves.}
Perception DC 25 Highlight to display spoiler: {You can definitely see that there are standing stones upon an island about 75 yards distant. You’ll have to navigate the waterway to get there and anticipate it’ll be another thirty minutes in the boat before you arrive.}
Rowers: Issac, Eirnar, Benni, Drotar(?) Look-Outs: Tae-Che, Snark Along for the Ride: Gore'Thum, Teddy
Tae-Che (Jim) HP 9/9 AC 12/12/10 CMD 13 d20=19 ; d20+2=14 ; Wednesday January 5th, 2022 8:50:58 PM
Tae Che sits nearby Snark, smiles at him as she keeps a lookout for anything that looks suspicious no matter where it is coming from. "So, Snark, what happened in your past that led you to here; if you don't mind telling?" She asks plainly. (Fort: 19, pass/Perception: 14)
“Benni” AC 18/11/17 CMD12 HP 13/13 Onesimos (SteveK) d20+4=16 ; d20+5=21 ; Thursday January 6th, 2022 12:22:57 AM
Onesimos pulls, confident he can help even though he’s not strong as the others. He keeps monotony and fatigue at bay through storytelling. Eventually, ”isn’t there something that way? Let’s row.”
Fort Save. 16 Perception. 21
And when we're hauled to Heranmar docks Them bloomers all come 'round in flocks That pretty Selene, we hear her say "Here comes Einar with his twelve-month pay"
Next we go to Bottom Feeders Inn Where there's good vittle so stuff right in When in comes Ralphus with a smile "Drink up me boys, it's worth your while"
When ‘ol Einar’s money is gone and spent Nor more to be had, no more to be lent Then in comes Ralphus with a frown Saying "Rise up Einar, let another sit down"
And so poor Einar must understand There's ships in the harbour needing hands So stows his gear like he did before And says farewell to the Heranmar shore”
Einar (StevenVdB) - HP27/27 - AC18/13/15 - CMD 18 d20+4=7 ; d20+6=14 ; Thursday January 6th, 2022 6:42:29 AM
(FORT Save 14 vs 15 - FAIL)
The cold and damp swamp immediately crawls back up... already the warm feeling is gone... Einar grabs the oars to help rowing the boat but he isn't a great help at the moment... (Str check 6).
Then Onesimos begins his storytelling... there's something melancholic in his words. Something sad. It doesn't really help to cheering up the barbarian.
"... I hate this place..." is all he says.
Gore'Thum and Teddy Treeborn (Mitch) HP 12/12 AC 12/11/12 CMD 11 Gore'Thum HP 10/16 AC 12/12/11 d20=1 ; d20=7 ; d20=13 ; d20=13 ; Thursday January 6th, 2022 7:11:16 AM
Whatever good feelings Teddy and Gore'thum had vanish as they return to the woods and they're both finally affected by the swamp dread (fort save 7 and 12). They shudder and look around nervously (perception 17 and 12)
Isaac Harker (Justin M) HP 24/24 AC18/ T12 / FF 16 d20+8=25 ; Thursday January 6th, 2022 10:46:59 AM
Isaac is thankful for the help of Red Beard and rows the boat. He can't really help the others keep look out but hopes the others are doing alright. Chunk's lantern at the very least should help light the way.
Fort (25)
Snark Riverstone (MarkB) AC13 T13 F10, CMD 11, HP 15/15 d20+7=27 ; d20+6=22 ; Thursday January 6th, 2022 11:38:06 AM
Snark enjoys Benni's little rhyme and claps when he's done. "Bravo Benni!"
But the little gnome is caught off guard and blushes a bit at being paid attention to by a pretty girl. Well, a girl twice his age, so pretty woman. Hard to tell with elves.
"What? Me? Oh, well, I uh ... I, well ... see I grew up in forests mostly, and we met lots of elves there, but none like you though. I mean not pretty like ... er, I mean they didn't look like ... uh, they were just forest elves, see?
"Um, anyway, Mom was a herbalist and dad was a member of the WLA, but he disappeared when I was young. I travelled around a bit. I got captured by goblins and was stuck with the Nosepick Tribe for a couple of years. That was something. Ugh. Goblins are gross. But I eventually got loose from 'em.
"Most recently, I worked in Hook City for a dwarven wizard. He taught me some stuff, but he was kind of a jerk so I caught a ship out - and here I am. With you. Er, I mean with us. And you, cause you're part of us. So all of us. With you included."
Ugh. This is not going well.
"So, um, how 'bout you? What's a nice jewelry maker doing in a place like this?"
Snark looks around as we go. As he peers into the mist he says, "Say, I can see something over that way. Could be the standing stone that Trevvor fella mentioned. It could also be the Monument Graves. We should go have a look."
He also casts Resistance on himself and on Tae Che periodically (+1 on next save.)
(Will save 24 - rolled a Will save but adjusted it to Fort) (Perception 22)
(Also, was Snark able to identify the properties of this purple lamp? What about his Speak with Animals?)
Tae-Che (Jim) HP 9/9 AC 12/12/10 CMD 13 Thursday January 6th, 2022 8:55:43 PM "Enjoying the sights and sounds of a dreary swamp with good friends, at the moment. I left my mom's awhile ago, discovered my love of gems and jewelry, and decided to go find a place to set up shop on my own. After awhile I found myself on the way to Heranmar." Tae Che replies to Snark.
DM JonS: Swampy Goodness Thursday January 6th, 2022 11:44:39 PM OOC: Sigh. So no one has heard from Drotar or Kristoph's players since before the break. I thought I saw Kristoph posting in the Giggling Ghost but I could have been mistaken. I'm awaiting guidance at this point as to what we can do, as I don't know where two put these two guys other than leave them in the boat to protect it while the rest of the party moves on...
Thanks for reminding me
The lamp, while antique is sturdily made. The metal appears to be resistant to rust, and the glass panes are clear (they also glow with transmutation magic). The gem itself is not the best cut of stone, its 3" around and stands about 8" tall. It bears evocation magics, which makes sense as its been "Continually Flamed."
Speak with Animals - fish are very flighty. They warn of shiny sharp objects in the water, they warn of creatures with vicious graspers and maws, and they warn of eels in dark holes.
“Benni” AC 18/11/17 CMD12 HP 13/13 Onesimos (SteveK) Friday January 7th, 2022 1:07:24 AM
Ooc: Robert (Drotar) is a Real Life friend, and RL is kicking his butt. Gonna let the PTB handle comms with him.
Onesimos rows with the others to the spot Snark found. The elf chimes into the conversation between the gnome and Tae-Che. ”Thats a great idea, it helps friendship and shared goodwill to know more about each other. I was a youth in Amberdale, a town outside of Plateau City, when the Year of Ascension happened a hundred years ago. That’s when everything living in the Wold died, even most of the gods, and the elevation of Flower to the gods of the Wold. I joined her following that year and spent most of my time in her Temple until last year. There, I was given a new name and mission, to be a beneficial hope sent to the Southern Continent.”
“In my dialect of elfish, I am Onesimos, which means ‘Beneficial Hope’ in Common, or ‘Benni’ for short.”
Snark Riverstone (MarkB) AC13 T13 F10, CMD 11, HP 15/15 Friday January 7th, 2022 9:03:05 PM "Ooof. Yer a nice fella there Benni, and that's a nice story. But if everything died, how come we're still here?"
(I'm not familiar with the story of the Year of Ascention. But there are beings that were alive then. If everything died, it seems like that would have a profound effect on the perceptons of all beings in the Wold. Wondering why this is not widley known?)
Isaac Harker (Justin M) HP 24/24 AC18/ T12 / FF 16 Friday January 7th, 2022 11:03:56 PM
Isaac continued rowing "So if everything died I guess someone got around to fixing it. Who was it another god or someone like us? Mortal I mean.
DM JonS: Swampy Goodness Friday January 7th, 2022 11:47:17 PM OOC: Ok, I/we are going to continue, and hopefully Robert and Steven are ok and can join us shortly
IC: As the party rows the boat around the a bend in the grassy islands scattered about the marsh, or swamp rather, you can clearly see a small grassy island or hill with twelve standing stones arrayed in a circle. The post and lintel design of these stones is evident, but over the years the posts have shifted and the lintels have fallen. Any holy or sacred power here has long since waned, but the grass here is short and many bright red flowers can be seen growing against the haphazard assortment of blocks and stones.
KS: Nature DC 20 Highlight to display spoiler: {The red flowers are the Spirit Woad. You know that flower is red until picked. }
“Benni” AC 18/11/17 CMD12 HP 13/13 Onesimos (SteveK) Saturday January 8th, 2022 9:03:22 AM
Onesimos is concentrating on rowing and doesn’t know anything about the natural Wold anyways, so the Stones and Flowers mean nothing to the elf other than as a destination. The conversation, however…
” Well, the gods brought everything back, of course. I don’t remember much, no pain or despair. Just a sleepy feeling and then waking up laying on the ground and knowing things CHAnGED. The story is Marteus made a machine, and Domi fought Marteus but died, and everything died, but Marteus lost because of Gargul’s Spark (OK, I don’t know much about that part) and everything lived again.”
“I find it very comforting that I know with absolute certainty that my god is real and used to be mortal and that the Lands of Rest are real. It’s not a belief, it is a certainty. And that means that our helping others have definite consequences.”
The elf has a far-away look in his eyes, a peek through his normally reserved demeanor.
DM JonS: Swampy Goodness Sunday January 9th, 2022 12:14:08 AM OOC: So I still haven't heard from our two MIA guys ... do the rest of y'all want to proceed and they can catch up to us?"
DM JonS: Swampy Goodness Sunday January 9th, 2022 3:28:50 PM OOC: Ok, so at this time Drotar and Kristoph will remain at the boat, as the rest of the party moves forward
Now that the boat has been beached, this area of the swamp feels more "solid" than what you have experienced. The ground, though squishy, is not the boot-sucking mess you've spent time slogging through several times already. The Standing Stones are around 75 yards from where the boat is currently resting.
KS: Nature DC 15 Highlight to display spoiler: { All sounds around you have ceased, other than the sound of the rain. }
KS: Nature DC 20 Highlight to display spoiler: { 20 to 25 yards away, in the general direction of the Stones are several white trees, which are sitting at odd angles }
Perception DC 20 Highlight to display spoiler: { Something is moving in the grasses and shrubs close to the weird trees.}
Perception DC 25 Highlight to display spoiler: { There is something lying in the grass next to the stones.}
Gore'Thum and Teddy Treeborn (Mitch) HP 12/12 AC 12/11/12 CMD 11 Gore'Thum HP 10/16 AC 12/12/11 d20=16 ; d20=13 ; Sunday January 9th, 2022 5:49:04 PM "Oh good we're here." Teddy says in relief. He doesn't notice anything in his eagerness for them to be done and gone.
With the gloomy swamp still weighing heavily on his spirit, Einar can't even recognize any of the flowers and plants they encounter and he won't notice even when the kraken rises in front of their boat... He just rows on...
Tae-Che (Jim) HP 9/9 AC 12/12/10 CMD 13 d20+2=10 ; Sunday January 9th, 2022 7:03:51 PM
Tae Che is happy to hear about the histories of her companions and where they came from. She steps out of the boat once it is beached. She tested the ground before placing all her weight on it. She looks at the lantern given to the group. "Should we take that, in case of problems?" [Perception: 10]
Snark Riverstone (MarkB) AC13 T13 F10, CMD 11, HP 15/15 d20=11 ; d20+7=26 ; d20+6=19 ; Monday January 10th, 2022 12:40:59 AM "You know Benni, to hear your story, the gods are the problem. I mean they only needed that rest button because other gods screwed up and killed everyone.
"Well, at least they give you some power that benefits us. So, I'm glad you're here."
As the boat comes to a stop, Snark looks around. He peers in the distance and says, "Something's not right. Did anyone else notice all the critters are quiet? There's something bad here. And see those white trees there? They're sitting at odd angles, so let's be careful around those trees. What'd make that happen? Trevvor didn't mention nothing about some messed up trees. Everyone keep a sharp eye out!" He points to several white trees about 20 yards ahead in the general direction of the Stones.
If none of the bigger folk will carry the lantern the little gnomish wizard will do his best, but it's really too heavy for him.
(Knowledge Nature 26, Perception 19)
“Benni” AC 18/11/17 CMD12 HP 13/13 Onesimos (SteveK) d20+5=11 ; Monday January 10th, 2022 12:12:32 PM
Onesimos shakes his head with a smile. ”Snark, there is such a thing as taking too wide a view. One may as well say civilizations are fine except for the people! Just because we classify them all ‘gods’ doesn’t mean they are all the same. Very much the opposite!”. The elf shakes his head again and drops the subject. The last thing anyone needs is a sermon right now. ’Even me!’, he thinks with a rueful smile.
He turns to Einar and touches the warrior to remove his fatigue. “We are going to need your strength soon, my friend.”
Benni isn’t any good at perceiving things or nature, but he is strong enough to hold a lamp. He makes sure the device it shining and plays it over the ground as they advance up the solid ground.
DM JonS: Swampy Goodness d20+2=13 ; d20+2=8 ; d10=4 ; Monday January 10th, 2022 4:38:40 PM OOC: If I do this part wrong let me know
Two figures pop up from the grasses and fire their heavy crossbows, one shoots towards Tae-Che, the other towards Benni as he's holding the lightsource ...
Tae-Che takes damage as the bolt slashes her left arm ...
The two pirates begin reloading their heavy crossbows - they are 60' away (20 yards)
Snark Riverstone (MarkB) AC13 T13 F10, CMD 11, HP 15/15 Monday January 10th, 2022 5:23:58 PM
Snark's eyes go wide as these guys pop up out of the grass. His first thought is to cast Grease on them, but he realizes he's too far away for his little legs to get him in range.
Instead he tries something else. He casts Silent Image, bringing forth some spectral forms that rise out of the ground to swirl around these two, hopefully drawing their fire from us until our fighters can get up to them. These flitting images do not touch the two, but swirl about 10' distant and on all sides of them - hopefully keeping them there. (DC 14 Will Save to disbelieve if they move and interact with the images.)
Snark raises his hands in the air as he yells, "I CALL FORTH THE SPIRITS OF THE DEAD IN THIS PLACE! DROP YOUR CROSSBOWS LEST THEY EAT YOUR SOULS!"
He also hopes that if there are more pirates hiding here they may see this and just run!
DM JonS: Swampy Goodness d20+1=11 ; d10=3 ; d20+1=11 ; Monday January 10th, 2022 6:57:14 PM OOC: Very cool use of a spell - ignore the D10 roll, my mouse tried to run away
They both throw down their crossbows, but draw their cutlasses to protect themselves
CDM Jerry [OOC post] Monday January 10th, 2022 6:59:58 PM
Stephen C and Robert S, you have important email from me!
Einar (StevenVdB) - HP27/27 - AC18/13/15 - CMD 18 Monday January 10th, 2022 7:21:21 PM
Einar is very thankful for Benni's calming touch. The boat has been beached... the ground is solid enough not to get stuck on foot...
"Sir Snark... why not test that Enlarge wand of yours again?" he says.
He gets out of the boat and draws his blade as he steps up to the archers. He's now 30ft from the Archers.
Snark Riverstone (MarkB) AC13 T13 F10, CMD 11, HP 15/15 Monday January 10th, 2022 7:38:10 PM "You bet Einar but I'm not as fast as you. I'll catch up when I can. Maybe those spirits will delay them for a bit.
"Wait - sir? When did I become a sir?"
Snark will use the rest of his turn to move up, but he only goes 20'. Next round he plans to Enlarge Einar if he can get to him, though using the wand will end the illusion.
Tae-Che (Jim) HP 9/9 AC 12/12/10 CMD 13 Monday January 10th, 2022 9:18:33 PM "Ouch!" Tae Che screams out as blood spurts from the wound. She moves up next to Einar and casts Daze{Will DC13} on the pirate on the left.
“Benni” AC 18/11/17 CMD12 HP 13/13 Onesimos (SteveK) d6=4 ; d20+6=9 ; Tuesday January 11th, 2022 12:39:45 AM
Onesimos didn’t see the pirates and only heard the low ‘Whirr’ of a bolt’s fletching darting into the night. He moves up with Tae-Che and shines the lamp towards the seen pirates. With a burst of positive energy, he heals Tae-Che (and everyone within 30 feet) 4 hit points.
To say he is startled that Snark is commanding undead would be an understatement, and the cleric mentally prepares for a serious conversation with the flamboyant gnome. (Failed Will save)
……. Channel Energy. 1 of 6 4 hp burst in 30’ Calming Touch. 1 of 6
Will 9 failed vs Silent Image
Gore'Thum and Teddy Treeborn (Mitch) HP 12/12 AC 12/11/12 CMD 11 Gore'Thum HP 10/16 AC 12/12/11 Tuesday January 11th, 2022 7:14:07 AM
Teddy is confused by the sudden attack and confused by the sudden yelling. He doesn't even realize they are being attacked for several seconds and wastes the round but Gore'Thum is more aware and advances 20 feet towards the pirates.
Isaac Harker (Justin M) HP 24/24 AC18/ T12 / FF 16 d20+2=13 ; d6=6 ; Tuesday January 11th, 2022 3:22:40 PM
Isaac draws his light crossbow he was usually more comfortable with his sword but the long distance made any thought of running up to the pirates foolish.
Isaac lets loose a bolt. (Attack 13 damage 6 if it hits)
DM JonS: Swampy Goodness Tuesday January 11th, 2022 3:28:04 PM OOC: I'll be making a post in a couple of hours, I gotta run my wife in for a mini-surgery?
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