DM JamesM: Map - Heros Return d10=3 ; d10=8 ; d10=4 ; d10=10 ; d10=5 ; d10=8 ; d10=1 ; d10=10 ; d10=4 ; d10=1 ; Tuesday February 22nd, 2022 9:17:05 AM Benni is anxious to get back, but has little expertise to offer at the moment. He also speaks about community and love.
Tae-Che thought that the ocean journey would be sunnier.
Issac asked for help in carrying the blighted creature over to the blighted tree and suggested they both be burnt to cleanse the area of their taint. Issac thinks a ritual cleansing and a blessing might restore the woad.
Snark related what he'd learned of the magic items and the clerical scroll he found. He incorrectly assumed the pirate took their boat.
Kristoph saw it as a sign that his last spell of the day was the one he needed to cleanse the blight.
Teddy listened to Gore-Thum pronounce the escaped pirate a coward and a fool.
Einar too didn't have any sailing knowledge and offered to return by whatever means the group decided.
It was late, but they had a large fire planned for the evening. Strangely enough the old tree and the forlarren caught fire easily as the region was lit for miles around by the conflagration. The fire also warmed them such that the lush grass and soft earth upon the barrow mound made for a very comfortable night as the flames dispelled the cold air around them.
Also though watches were set none were able to stay awake as each drifted off into a sleep none could rouse from until the morning light touched the faces of the heroes. Though the morning was crisp and chill none of them felt the cold. It was as if they were protected from the elements for a time.
Each also discovered that their wounds had been healed as they slept and the disturbed ground of the graveyard had been smoothed over with fresh woad already growing back in the patches of freshly turned earth. Above the sun climbed into a azure blue sky as they packed away their gear into the boat.
Getting back to the road was going to be easy, but they had to decide what to do about the whaleboat once the waterways ended. It was too big to carry and while they might be able to drag it, they'd be slowed considerably if they did so. It took most of the day to wind their way back through the swamp reeds to the main path leading into the spirit swamp. Fortunately there was no sign of pirates, reefclaw, fey, or undead. Not even the elusive lizard folk they'd heard rumored to be in the area.
Another uneventful night and they were back on the path to the main road, or Spirit road as Percivan related to them it's name. They'd just found the main road when they came upon another corpse. This one looked to be an old one, likely another victim of the forlarren and it's children or perhaps the sheep and dog, it was too hard to tell. Percivan suggested a shallow road side grave to keep the other animals from it and then he'd send back a crew to collect it later.
It was late evening and they were pushing through when one of their number spotted a staggering figure on the fields a mile out, but as they watched it stumble towards the town walls it just dissolved into thin air.
They were home and could see the friendly walls of the town just a short distance away. As they drew closer a horn sounded as the townsfolk turned out to welcome the returning heroes. Percivan was quickly whisked away by his family as the rest of them and Sheriff "Whip" came and slapped the backs of the heroes and directed some others to collect the woad.
"You must be tired. Rest tonight. The council wants to meet with you tomorrow morning. I understand they have a reward of some type for you."
DM James: We have some downtime here, but there are a few mini adventures already lined up for those interested. The rest can use the chance to train, craft, or whatever.
“Benni” AC 18/11/17 CMD12 HP 13/13 Onesimos (SteveK) Wednesday February 23rd, 2022 12:11:34 AM
Onesimos’ eyes light up. A magical scroll of clerical spells? He will certainly hold onto the magical divine treasure (unless Kristoph or Teddy wants it instead).
The decision to go by road means the team abandons the whaleboat, but the brown-haired elf is philosophical: it was never theirs anyways.
The ghostly form makes the cleric shudder, but Heranmar is in sight and he gamely continues until neighbors embrace them in good company. ”A sense of community overcame any amount of luck, and we were able to rescue Prevican.”, Benni announces and nods at the Sheriff’s notice.
Gore'Thum and Teddy Treeborn (Mitch) HP -1/14AC 12/11/12 CMD 11 Gore'Thum HP 1/23AC 12/12/11 d20+8=24 ; d20+8=11 ; Wednesday February 23rd, 2022 7:20:03 AM
Now safe at home Teddy tries to identify the magic items under Gore'Thum's close supervision. He probably succeeds at the first (24 spellcraft) but not the second (11 spellcraft). After he gets frustrated about it Gore'Thum tells him to go take a break and try again later.
Einar (StevenVdB) - HP27/27 - AC18/13/15 - CMD 18 Wednesday February 23rd, 2022 8:27:19 AM
Einar is intrigued by the material the blade has and wonders if it would be something to pursue in the future. Once back in town Einar is happy enough to catch up with his wife Selene. They are no where to be seen that evening and the sun's already up high the next day by the time Einar returns.
DM JamesM: Map - Woad Warriors Wednesday February 23rd, 2022 10:55:24 AM
The Blue Cat Tavern was in high form by the time the heroes entered it with back slaps and free rounds in abundance for all the rescuers. That only one woad hunter returned alive didn't seem to cloud the fact that Percivan was returned to them and the woad would be available in the future.
"Gonna get me a green hat." "Yeah, but I wanna green cloak, I hear some special wool came back with the Luck Bringers." "Too rich for me. I'll just get a pair of socks, my ones frum last year gots holes." he said as feet came up on the table amid proclamations of distaste. "Ewww...nasty...get those things away from me." "Yer need to wash them too." "What, then all the green'll come out." "That's not how it works Jeremy." "The mayor's cloak for the mid month festival is supposed to be special this year." "The weather has been nice lately. Mum says it were the Luck Bringers cleaning up the swamp." "Maybe they can sail down ter Luckbottom an scare off ole Jack Lolly." "He still around? Thought he was working near Hook City." "Workin'" scoffing sounds followed. "Waldo been hauntin' people again. Dimitri Gimpface fell off the dock and broke his nose." "Gimpface?" "HE FELL OFF THE DOCK AND BROKE HIS NOSE." "Oh. New names always throw me." "Then you'll love John's new name, see he was walking along the stone wall and slipped...."
The rest of the evening was uneventful and the next morning all was quiet as Heranmar seemed to still be asleep. This morning the inn keepers wife had on a smart looking green dress for the season and the inkeeper had a green vest with a red flower in the lapel. A close look at the flower and it was obvious it was a silk replica of Spirit Woad.
Teddy sat in his room with the two swords. He picked up the first one, the black one made of wood, and cast his magic upon it. As he examined the wooden weapon his eyes widened as he saw a mint mark that he knew.
Teddy - Spellcraft Highlight to display spoiler: {You remember reading of this in your studies, or it could just have been a fireside chat during one of those exhausting training sessions. But Teddy was certain he'd divined the true nature of the blade. “Warden’s Resolve” - Weapons of this type are created for warrior/druids and ranger/druids. The long sword has had Ironwood permanently enchanted on it. It also has the property that it ignores metal armor worn by enemies (counts as a Touch Attack) It is +1 Magic. Also, it does bludgeoning damage versus slashing. 1d6+2 or 2-7+1(Magic))}
The second weapon, the magical cutlass, was beyond him. He couldn't find anything on the blade to indicate it's purpose. He knew it to be magical, and that the aura it gave off suggested a typical magical blade of the basest sort, but he couldn't determine anything else about it.
Otherwise for those that ventured downstairs a note was waiting for them from Sheriff Whip. Council had a small emergency this morning and would be delaying the audience with the Luck Bringers, only Whip called them the Woad Warriors in his missive.
“Benni” AC 18/11/17 CMD12 HP 13/13 Onesimos (SteveK) Wednesday February 23rd, 2022 1:36:14 PM
Onesimos observes and listens and takes part but a little. The elf is not overly exuberant, and he smiles as he chided himself. He shares with his friends, ”I find it hard to share myself easily, which is quite funny in a way since love and community requires others knowing of each other. It’s my own challenge, I suppose!”
The cleric ensures he comes by to check on Drotar, the half-Orc still being ill, and it’s going to take a long bit to see their former companion through.
Of course, he is ready with the Luck Bringers or Woad Warriors to meet the Sheriff in the morning!
"Kristoph: (Stephen C) | AC:17 | CMD:22 | HP: 25/25 - Blusinda: AC:13 | HP:21/21" Wednesday February 23rd, 2022 2:28:45 PM
When discussing 'traveling by Sea' Kristoph sniffs the air and with a resigned, knowing look calmly announces: "I'm on fire aren't I!?". Turns out he was as blue flames and smoke lick over his shoulder. Still without drama he pats himself out and shares that Blue-Fire-Cat 'may not be up for that'.
On the boat Blusinda's flame dims to a purple and she curls up on his lap, impersonating a poorly kitten. Doesn't take much to recognise she's terrified of water, he pats her gently as she quakes and shivers. Occasionally his hand bursts into blue flame and he ruffles her. Back on dry land the incident is quickly forgotten.
If you watch Kristoph there is a grace to his movement and efficiency, it's like even walking is a martial art, this will springboard you to realising he does this with everything. He is immensely in control of every movement and his face gives nothing away, but when Blusinda springs around him (and on more than one occasion sets fire to his clothing) you glimpse a different person (a carefree version?). As their game of 'ambush' continues one of them gets a rougher deal, notably Kristoph when he wakes up at 3am with his hair on fire. It's not being on fire - it would be easy to imagine the monk actually enjoys being set on fire, he even calls it 'Fire-kissed', no it's the fact Blusinda never sleeps!
The ghost-vanishing-zombie-thing is intriguing and back in town Kristoph listens in on the gossip as Blusinda takes up her spot in the fireplace and bathes her worshipers in blue light.
Snark Riverstone (MarkB) AC13 T13 F10, CMD 11, HP 15/15 d20+10=23 ; Wednesday February 23rd, 2022 6:27:45 PM
Now that the little gnome has gained some more experience, he can take another crack at item identification he previously failed at. He can see that Teddy knows something about the wooden sword, so he'll leave that for Teddy to tell.
He focuses on the magical cutlass (Spellcraft 23, but maybe his friends will give him an assist with this to better ensure success. Teddy, Tae Che - all you need is to beat a DC 10 to Aid Another and add +2 to his roll.)
Snark sniffs derisively at the term Luck Bringers, and laughs at Woad Warriors, "Shh, be vewy, vewy quiet. We'wre hunting woad wabbits."
"Say, what's all this about Jack Lolly. Who's that? And what's special about wearing green right now.
The little gnome is glad his usual green robes finally make him fit in.
Tae-Che (Jim) HP 9/9 AC 12/12/10 CMD 13 d20+7=16 ; Wednesday February 23rd, 2022 9:18:01 PM
Tae Che happily assists Snark in attempting to identify the cutlass. She sits in the inn and relates any tales the townsfolk ask about in regards to the most recent quest. [Spellcraft: 16; Aid another +2]
Isaac Harker (Justin M) HP 24/24 AC20/ T14 / FF 18 Wednesday February 23rd, 2022 11:20:01 PM
Isaac was certain that the burning of the tree and creature pleased whatever fey had originally called the area home and was glad to see the swamp and all it's denizens behind them. Back at the town he decided to join in the festivities. Sharing stories about what they saw and telling them of the strange pirate that had helped them along. Before going to bed Isaac asked Teddy if in the morning after their meeting with the council if Teddy would take the axe to the druids and see if they could cleanse it.
DM JamesM: Map - Woad Warriors Thursday February 24th, 2022 8:46:07 AM
The morning passed uneventfully as the heroes waited around the Blue Cat Tavern to be summoned. For those weak of constitution the respite was a welcome one for their sore backs and legs from all the walking through the muddy gunk in the Spirit Swamp. About mid morning Sheriff Whip stuck his head in and shook it. "The fish are biting and the mayor has his eye on one in particular. He's either going to catch that fish or lose some kind of special bait, but he says he'll call you when he's done. Stay close though."
Ralphus and Ginifred were relaxing a moment while the triplets ate a late breakfast like wolves that hadn't eaten....ever. Except for the occasional stuck out tongue or rude noise the children were well behaved...but they were all ears.
Snarks question about Jack Lolly caused one of the two girls eyes to open wide in fear as the boy, Fred, offered up. "He's only the evilest scourge and scoundrel this side of the Gateway Downs. Until a couple of years ago when Captain Sterling from Hook City defeated him and the Black Ghost. Since then ole Jack hasn't been seen much." chew, chew, gulp, belch, smack smack smack. "Yeah, Imma be like Captain Sterling one day. have me own ship and fightin' bad guys like Lolly." Fred then leaned towards Snark, who he must have assumed to be another of the children in town. "Me an the boys gonna go down to the docks and steal a rowboat and play pirates and captains later. We plan ta storm a village an plunder their jewels."
Ginifred, like any mother, had bat ears and an eye sharper than an eagles as she smacked the boy in the back of the head. "You be doin' no such thing. You've the stalls to muck, wood to chop, and bath buckets to set on the fire."
The two girls giggled at their brothers predicament as they delicately and pointedly dabbed their mouths with a napkin and scurried away leaving their brother to his duties.
With a heavy elbow on the table Fred slowed his eating with his head resting on his hand. He obviously was going to take as long as he could to postpone his work.
Later Tae-Che and Snark bent over the cutlass and tried to identify it's properties. Neither of them had ever seen anything like it but after conferring and checking a tome or two they thought they had worked it out.
Tae and Snark Highlight to display spoiler: {+1 Ghost Touch Cutlass (Value 4000gp) - A ghost touch weapon deals damage normally against incorporeal creatures, regardless of its bonus. An incorporeal creature’s 50% reduction in damage from corporeal sources does not apply to attacks made against it with ghost touch weapons. The weapon can be picked up and moved by an incorporeal creature at any time. A manifesting ghost can wield the weapon against corporeal foes. Essentially, a ghost touch weapon counts as both corporeal or incorporeal.}
Gore'Thum and Teddy Treeborn (Mitch) HP -1/14AC 12/11/12 CMD 11 Gore'Thum HP 1/23AC 12/12/11 Thursday February 24th, 2022 9:02:36 AM
Teddy is very sore and tired and decides screw it I'm going back to bed. Gore'Thum frowns disapprovingly but lets him rest since there have been delays.
“Benni” AC 18/11/17 CMD12 HP 13/13 Onesimos (SteveK) Thursday February 24th, 2022 2:55:03 PM
With a reprieve on the meeting with the Mayor, Onesimos has a busy morning. Checking in with his patients, especially Drotar, he then spends the morning in the WLA stall in the market, and lunch at the Chapel.
He makes sure the Blue Cat Tavern knows where he is so he can get the Mayor’s message as soon as it arrives.
Kristoph: (Stephen C) | AC:17 | CMD:22 | HP: 25/25 - Blusinda: AC:13 | HP:21/21 d20-1=13 ; d20+6=9 ; d20+8=20 ; d20+7=22 ; Thursday February 24th, 2022 4:46:13 PM
Kristoph is up early and helping the smithy, where he tells of their adventures (if asked) as he works with Blusinda. When the summons arrives he is cleaning up. Having seen his fair share of politics in the palace as a kid, he stays silent and says nothing (sense motive below).
Later that night Kristoph dons a black cloak pulls up the hood (disguise:13) and makes his way to Dockgate Tavern, avoiding Old Hammerthumb and the rowdy crowd, he tries his best to be unseen (stealth:9). So, with a disguise that won't hold up to inspection and a poor hide, he probably gets spotted and recognised. He's not there to fight; he tells himself: 'just looking to make sure there aren't anymore of 'them!' (Perception:22).
--- The basement no one spoke about. a.k.a. The Arena. Where his world has fallen apart. He hoped they didn't remember him.
--- Sense Motive:20 on the mayor as he talks, etc.
Isaac Harker (Justin M) HP 24/24 AC20/ T14 / FF 18 Thursday February 24th, 2022 10:15:34 PM
Isaac awakens in the morning and goes over to the Blue Cat Tavern he eats a pretty hardy breakfast and for the first time in awhile relaxes. With nothing horrible immediately demanding their attention he sits down and talks to some of the locals. With the sheriff popping in and telling them not to head out, Isaac took this as his cue to stay put. "Mrs.Ginifred if it's not to much trouble can you tell me what's gone on in town since we left to collect the Woad. Some times being out on the road makes it a bit hard to properly judge how long I was gone. I was worried that more "things" might have shown up in our absences."
Tae-Che (Jim) HP 9/9 AC 12/12/10 CMD 13 d20+8=11 ; Thursday February 24th, 2022 10:49:17 PM
Tae Che looks over at Snark as the realization of what the cutlass' capabilities are. She tsk's with a smile at her companion. "Someone's got a real nice prize." She says out loud. She finds a quiet(?) place in the tavern and begins working on a bracelet for herself. [Jewelcrafting: 11] After about an hour she heads out to the WLA stall to gather some new things.
Snark Riverstone (MarkB) AC13 T13 F10, CMD 11, HP 15/15 Friday February 25th, 2022 1:05:10 AM
The first thing Snark does is to soak in a hot bath for a long while. Prestidigation is good for cleaning up, but nothing beats a good, hot soak. Ahhhh.
Snark will share the info about the cutlass and the wooden sword (above.)
Later in the common room, Snark will conjure a Silent Image of the Darkling with his stone axe, and have it silently tromp around the room. "So this was a pretty nasty critter that was out there in the swamp. But it ain't out there no more. We kicked it's axe - see, here's the axe!" He presents the large stone axe.
Gore'Thum and Teddy Treeborn (Mitch) HP -1/14AC 12/11/12 CMD 11 Gore'Thum HP 1/23AC 12/12/11 Friday February 25th, 2022 6:01:21 AM
Gore'Thum and Teddy wonder if the DM maybe forgot to finish their placeholder post and let non-DMs see it.
Einar (StevenVdB) - HP27/27 - AC18/13/15 - CMD 18 Friday February 25th, 2022 8:27:41 AM
Struggling in RL... no time this week
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