DM JamesM: Fisherman Mayors Monday November 8th, 2021 4:18:23 PM
The heroes rushed into the wet night as they sought out the source of the scream. When they arrived each saw Tae comforting a woman at the door of her flat. Apparently she'd seen the apparition as she was disposing of some grey water in the night. The woman was severely shaken, but otherwise unharmed.
The mystery of Waldo continued but with no further proof that he was around they eventually retired to their rooms for the night. The next day that same woman was trampled by a horse that got away from it's owner for a moment. All the eye witnesses swore that she saw the equine start at a sudden sound, but she froze in place and it stepped on her. The woman would live, but it would take her several days to recover.
The heroes noticed that in the past week the “mood” of the town has changed. The streets had filled with cheer again after the return of the lucky fish, but once again everyone moved with their heads down. They avoided eye contact and frequently touched lucky charms and made wards against evil spirits. A few noticed the group and you could almost make out whispers as they passed but everyone gave you a wide berth.
Later that day the heroes were once again relaxing in the Blue Cat Tavern at the Bottim Inn when a haggard Filael entered the room. Filael was the old fisherman from the tradehouse that they’d learned was actually one of the councilmen in Heranmar as well as its Mayor. Tonight he was wearing his official clothing when he entered the tavern. He searched the room and finally locked his gaze upon Kristoph and said. ”Spirits Willing, I’m glad I found you. Please, there is no time to waste. The council has been in session all day and we’ve a favor to ask of you. All of you. Would you please accompany me to the council chambers?” the mayor said as he stopped at the bar for an ale, apparently there was time for that.
Isaac Harker (Justin M) HP 24/24 AC18/ T12 / FF 16 Monday November 8th, 2021 5:59:19 PM
Isaacwas about to start his own rounds as a guard when he notices the mayor Filael come in. He over hears his talk with Kristopher. He walks over and speak to Filael "Evening sir. I'm ready to go. Will you fill us on the way or will we need to wait until we're in front of the other members for that?"
Kristoph: (Stephen C) | AC:17 | CMD:21 | HP: 19/19 - Blusinda: AC:12 | HP:16/16 d20+7=10 ; d20+7=23 ; Monday November 8th, 2021 6:55:16 PM
Kristoph is all ears
Tae-Che (Jim) HP 9/9 AC 12/12/10 CMD 13 Monday November 8th, 2021 9:21:39 PM
Tae Che, wanting to do more after the woman's misfortune hit, is eager to find out what the mayor and council wish to ask of the group. She pays up for her meal and joins the others heading out.
Drotar Zaviyar (Robert S) AC 14/12/12 CMD 16 HP 14 Monday November 8th, 2021 10:27:14 PM
Drotar finishes his own ale, before wiping his mouth with the back of his hand and getting to his feet.
“Benni” AC 19/12/17 CMD13 HP 13/13 Onesimos (SteveK) Tuesday November 9th, 2021 12:22:00 AM
Onesimos’ eyes light up: helping the community is why he thinks he is here! He passes his cold tea-and-ale spritzer to another patron to finish off, and brushes off his tunic. ”Count me in, Kristoph, I am willing to serve.”
Benni goes with the Mayor and the others to, assuredly. Quendock Mansion. His weeks familiarizing himself with Heranmar paying off.
Snark Riverstone (MarkB) AC13 T13 F10, CMD 10, HP 9/9 Tuesday November 9th, 2021 12:56:55 AM
Snark digs a sturdy tankard out of his pack and asks to have it filled with ale as well. He listens, ready to go with the others once this mayor guy is ready.
Gore'Thum and Teddy Treeborn (Mitch) HP 12/12 AC 12/11/12 CMD 11 Gore'Thum HP 16 AC 12/12/11 Tuesday November 9th, 2021 7:50:01 AM
Gore'Thum is happy to volunteer the pair to go help. Teddy hopes silently it won't be too scary or dangerous.
Einar (StevenVdB) RAGE 1/13 - HP29/31 - AC16/11/13 - CMD 20 Tuesday November 9th, 2021 9:32:12 AM
Einar tries to get the dirt from the smithy of his hands, waves a kiss at Selene and is ready to join the rest to the council.
DM JamesM: Council Chambers Tuesday November 9th, 2021 9:54:22 AM
The heroes are lead to the manor by an ale carrying mayor across the street where the council meetings were held. Though the place was huge, they didn’t enter any further than the main council room. It was a large room with torches set about it’s perimeter with a long table set against the wall on one side and thirty chairs lined up facing the table in six rows of five each. Many of the chairs were already occupied by concerned citizens. There were six chairs behind the long table, five of them had a council person in it.
There was a buzz in the room as the heroes entered, though the council persons remained quiet.
“What do you think they’ll be able to do?” “Beats me. Wish the mayor had brought me one.” “The hope is that they won’t get killed by the Swamp Beast.” “What swamp beast?” “You haven’t HEARD of the swamp beast? Let me tell you…..” whispers “Hey Kristoph!” “There’s that strange looking bear again.” “What about that frog that follows him around. Wonder what he eats.” “As long as it isn’t me, I’m fine.” “They found Waldo.” “Yeah, but I seen ‘em walking down the street last night.” “Yer seein’ ghosts.” “Yep. Stumped me toe on the steps outside. Bad luck that one is.”
The heroes can see several of the councilpersons are there. Each look as haggard as poor Filael. There are five council members in total, including Filael. You recognize Sheriff Eugene among them but none of the other three. Of the three there is a minotaur, a man and a woman. By the woman’s garb she appears to be a priestess of the crones. Sitting to one side is a man with a crutch grasped in his hands.
KS: Local DC 15 Highlight to display spoiler: { The Town Council is not truly elected, but it is tasked with following the will of the people. Instead, each member is a town leader in one important town role. However, the stated roles are: merchant/trade(Rap Goodfellow) , sheriff(Eugene “Whip” Bates), giftedness/faith(Honora), fishing/hunting(Filael), councilperson at large(Ilthamar the Minotaur). When you are asked to join, you remain for 5 years. In the 5th and final year, you are also the mayor and council leader, Filael holds that position at present. A former council member cannot be chosen to serve again for 2 years.}
“Benni” AC 19/12/17 CMD13 HP 13/13 Onesimos (SteveK) d20+1=17 ; Tuesday November 9th, 2021 3:56:37 PM
Onesimos greets the Council members. ”Mayor Filael, Sheriff Eugene, and Councilors, greetings in our temporary stay in the Wold. How may we assist the loving community of Heranmar?”
The elf waits calmly, and absently pushes his tousled brown hair behind an ear.
Ooc: please ignore roll. Benni is untrained and so can’t read the Know Local spoiler
Snark Riverstone (MarkB) AC13 T13 F10, CMD 10, HP 9/9 d20+7=21 ; Tuesday November 9th, 2021 4:46:22 PM
Before we go in, Snark casts Message on all the party members so we can all whisper quietly to each other.
Once we are inside, he looks around. When Benni refers to Heranmar as a "loving" community, the little gnome snorts as he holds back a laugh. He whispers quietly to Benni, "Loving. Good one."
He takes a big draw on the ale he brought. With beer dripping from his sky blue mustache, he says, "Hey you guys. Mr. Falafel here says you guys been meetin' all day on sumpthin. So, what's up? Want me to have the tavern folks bring some beer over for the rest a' you? Yer probably thirsty too. An' from the looks on yer faces, it might help."
Then he swipes his sleeve across his lip, wiping away the beer as he whispers a message to his friends about what he know of each council member there. (Knowledge Local = 21).
Isaac Harker (Justin M) HP 24/24 AC18/ T12 / FF 16 d20+2=4 ; d20+4=13 ; Tuesday November 9th, 2021 4:49:02 PM
Isaac unfortunately doesn't recognize the other members but at least he now knew their names thanks to Benni. He gives a polite greeting "Evening sirs and ladies is there anything we can help with?" Isaac guessed from the muttering more sighting of Waldo had surfaced.
Know: Local:(4) Profession:(13)
Einar (StevenVdB) RAGE 1/13 - HP29/31 - AC16/11/13 - CMD 20 Wednesday November 10th, 2021 5:18:49 AM
Einar hangs in the back of the group as usual. While he enjoys being on the frontline in battle he's not so good with words. When Snark adresses Filael with Falafel the barbarian has a hard time hiding his smile behind his beard.
Gore'Thum and Teddy Treeborn (Mitch) HP 12/12 AC 12/11/12 CMD 11 Gore'Thum HP 16 AC 12/12/11 Wednesday November 10th, 2021 7:57:37 AM
The small bear follows the frog, not the other way around. The frog looks around at the councilors impassively, waiting for them to say what they want. Teddy is intimidated by their authority and stays behind Gore'Thum's leg and barely visible.
DM JamesM: Council Chambers Wednesday November 10th, 2021 8:58:24 AM
Snark's offer to get everyone a beverage was met with flat stares, except for the minotaur councilman who nodded and motioned with his large bovine eyes to get going.
Benni then asked ”Mayor Filael, Sheriff Eugene, and Councilors, greetings in our temporary stay in the Wold. How may we assist the loving community of Heranmar?”
Filael set his beverage down, took his place behind the long table with the other council members and faced the heroes. ”Heranmar is in trouble.” he started and then the room erupted.
“My husband is missing! What are you going to do about it?” “A monster ate my son! I’m sure of it. Corrin saw it happen in her dreams!” “They are lost. I knew Trevvor should have gone, he’s faking that broken leg!” “No one ever returns from the Spirit Swamp.” “Wait, I returned.” “You don’t count. You’re too stupid to know the danger you are in.” “Wait…what about the hunters?”
”Calm down everyone.” Filael commanded from his seat as he rose somewhat and raised his voice. ”We’ll get to the bottom of this.”
”It seems,” the Mayor started. ”Our Spirit Woad hunters have gone missing. Not only are they important members of the community, but the integrant they were to return with is important to the town. Without it the people of Heranmar may panic thinking that we are doomed and calamity will befall all of us. Naturally we’d like to see the missing people returned to us, or find out what became of them at the very least. Doomsoothing aside, there is a measure of propriety here in getting our people back.”
Heads nodded everywhere in the room. Murmurs of “it’s true.” echoed about the room as everyone’s eyes turned to the heroes.
“As the only members of the WLA in town I’ve been asked to request you investigate the Spirit Swamp, return with our hunters, and their harvest. Trevvor here will tell you where to start looking. The spirit woad is very important to us and quite valuable, should you return with it the reward will be great. No less than 1,000 pieces of gold if you can recover the woad and make it safe to collect once more if monsters are indeed the cause of the missing hunters.”
KS: Local DC 15: Highlight to display spoiler: {You’ve heard of the townspeople referring to Spirit Woad as something used in their ceremonies.}
KS: local DC 20: Highlight to display spoiler: {You know that every fall a group of hunters travel into the Spirit Swamp to collect Spirit Woad. The flower is used in the creation of charms and trinkets and a fresh supply is considered vital to keeping the spirits happy.}
“Benni” AC 19/12/17 CMD13 HP 13/13 Onesimos (SteveK) Wednesday November 10th, 2021 12:48:35 PM
Onisimos gives a half smile back at Snark. ”Hearing to believing to being. They have to start somewhere.”
The elf listens gravely to the predicament, giving many glances at the others to try and gauge thier mood. He stands straighter as the Mayor calls on them as members of WLA. He’s not sure how the others will answer, bilaterally there is only one possible one for him.
“ Dedicated to fighting evil, in all its deadly forms, and in protecting the innocent. That’s what the WLA is for, and I will definitely go.”. He is oblivious to any local knowledge.
Snark Riverstone (MarkB) AC13 T13 F10, CMD 10, HP 9/9 d20+7=24 ; Wednesday November 10th, 2021 2:04:18 PM
Snark notices Ilthamar's interest in some ale, and he nods to the minotaur as he heads toward the door. He sets his own ale down and heads out.
As he scurrys over to the Tavern he whispers to his friends via his Message spell, "Spirit Woad is a small flowering plant that can be burned or stewed in concoctions. It is supposed to have properties that stave off evil spirits or bring vitality to those that imbibe it's essence. If burned like sage it can banish evil spirits for a time or at least make them feel unwelcome so they depart. Every fall they send some folks into the Spirit Swamp to collect this stuff. This town will start to lose it if they don't get their year's supply.
"Lemme know if sumthin else happens. I'm going to get the butcher some beer."
Once he is at the tavern, he slaps a gold on the counter and says, "Hey, can you get me a minotaur sized mug of ale? Maybe it should be a bucket, eh? I'm bringing it to Ilthamar." Once he has this, the little gnome will do his best to carry it back over and over and put it up on the Council table for Ilthamar.
Einar (StevenVdB) RAGE 1/13 - HP29/31 - AC16/11/13 - CMD 20 Wednesday November 10th, 2021 7:26:04 PM
Einar grunts at Snark's comments that the town will lose it if they don't get the Spirit Woad. "Haven't they already?!? he whispers through the message spell, "but as WLA members it's our duty to answer the call. And if that's 1000Gp each it's even more interesting..."
Drotar Zaviyar (Robert S) AC 14/12/12 CMD 16 HP 14 d20+7=25 ; d20+7=15 ; Wednesday November 10th, 2021 7:27:52 PM
Drotar is quite familiar with the councilors, and has heard of spirit woad but didn't pay much attention to the superstitious rituals surrounding it. He crosses his arms as they speak, and responds.
"Why do you think they haven't returned? And why don't you just grow the plant yourselves if its so dangerous to get and so important? It isn't as if there's no room to plant fields."
He sighs, pinching his forehead and closing his eyes as he begins to think of possibilities.
"How many are lost and how much do you need?"
Kristoph: (Stephen C) | AC:17 | CMD:21 | HP: 19/19 - Blusinda: AC:12 | HP:16/16 d20+7=11 ; Wednesday November 10th, 2021 8:56:09 PM
All local knowledge is above Kristoph's head so he nods a thanks when any is passed on. He also appreciates the "whisper" spell. Nodding and smiling when Benni said he was in (earlier) he is eager to investigate but curbs his enthusiasm whilst questions are asked.
It seems someone goes missing here every week. He looks around the room to see if anyone is acting shifty (perception:11)
Tae-Che (Jim) HP 9/9 AC 12/12/10 CMD 13 Wednesday November 10th, 2021 9:08:04 PM
Tae Che, standing in the back of the group and allowing others to speak for them, she has no problems going out and looking for the ones that are lost and their herb which most townsfolk felt required to have for their betterment. She speaks out, "Count me in. Heranmar is now my home and as such, it is requiring my aid in making it whole again."
Isaac Harker (Justin M) HP 24/24 AC18/ T12 / FF 16 d20+2=19 ; Wednesday November 10th, 2021 9:52:37 PM
Isaac tried to remember what he had over heard about the swamp from the locals. He remembered the Spirit Woad was something important, a ceremonial item but not the specifics. Snark however was able to fill him and the others on what it was. The word Doomsoothing he found was very appropriate the the town as the towns folk were in a constant state of applying any charm or ritual they could get their hands on. "I will volunteer and may I ask how long ago were the Woad hunters sent in and when were they expected back? Also how many were in the group?"
Gore'Thum and Teddy Treeborn (Mitch) HP 12/12 AC 12/11/12 CMD 11 Gore'Thum HP 16 AC 12/12/11 Thursday November 11th, 2021 6:34:18 AM
Teddy perks up. He didn't join the WLA and is under no obligation to do this scary thing. Before he can speak up though Gore'Thum looks at him and says, "We help." Teddy looks crestfallen.
Einar (StevenVdB) RAGE 1/13 - HP29/31 - AC16/11/13 - CMD 20 Thursday November 11th, 2021 5:42:55 PM
Einar patiently waits for their orders.
Isaac Harker (Justin M) HP 24/24 AC18/ T12 / FF 16 Thursday November 11th, 2021 6:37:28 PM
Isaac waits for Snark to get back. He tries to remember if Tae-Che told the others about what she saw that day.
Ooc Did Tae-Che ever tell the others about what she saw. I assume she saw what made the woman scream.
Tae-Che (Jim) HP 9/9 AC 12/12/10 CMD 13 Thursday November 11th, 2021 6:59:21 PM
ooc: Tae Che would have informed the 'Crew' about seeing Waldo's ghost. If not immediately, then after the woman got hurt.
DM James (Mark Bradley subbing for the DM) Thursday November 11th, 2021 9:24:23 PM
The party is asked if they will take on an investigation, and perhaps a rescue, of what happend to the missing Heranmarians in the Spirit Swamp. Most everyone agrees, and any sillence from some is interpreted as agreement.
Drotar asks why they have not returned, and why they don't grow Spirit Woad near town if it's so valued. Kristoph looks around and thinks they're all these folk are a little shifty.
Most everyone there makes some sort of warding gesture at the mention of the missing villagers. Filael replies, "We don't know for sure, but some here suspect there is a creature in the swamp that may have gotten them. While I don't know a monster, to be sure there are many dangers in the swamp. There are some dangerous creatures there, but the terrain itself poses a number of hazards."
With the heros acceptance of this task, relieved nods and murmuring ripple through the assembled folk. Filael says, "Excellent! It's decided. The WLA heroes will venture into the swamp and seek answers to the missing. May the crones protect them.
The crowd echoes, "May the crones protect them.", followed by more nervous warding gestures.
Most seem to move to the Blue Cat Tavern, almost dragging the heroes with them. There is a celebration, though it is not entirely clear if this is an anticipation of success or a last drink with you all before you die.
------------------------------------- You get news that Trevvor, Sundel, and Faign returned in the morning. All three were severely injured.
Only Trevvor actually seeks out the heroes. He seems to avoid the other townsfolk, and is not happy when they pester him. He won’t talk to them, and can only be convinced to talk so with no one else but the heroes present.
Heal DC 10:Highlight to display spoiler: {The injuries look to be bruises and scrapes and pokes of some sort. These injuries would be consistent with a headlong run through hazardous terrain, perhaps in the dark.}
Diplomacy DC 20 Highlight to display spoiler: {Trevvor will explain that a path into the Spirit Swamp lies just twenty five miles west along the swamp road. On the north side of the road is a burned out tree stump. Walk thirty feet beyond it into the wood and you will find the path to the swamp. The path diverges many times but if you stay to the northern routes you’ll eventually find an old set of standing stones. There in the grove at their center the plant sometimes can be found. If the hunters haven’t taken it already you’ll also find a small boat you can use to travel deeper into the swamp to the Monument Graves. This old grave yard is located in a section of the swamp where cypress trees have grown closely enough to shape a small island. The Spirit Woad grows next to the stones there. Then there is the Barrow Hill. It’s another graveyard of sorts and the Woad grows atop it. }
Tae-Che (Jim) HP 9/9 AC 12/12/10 CMD 13 d20+2=8 ; d20+3=17 ; Thursday November 11th, 2021 9:41:09 PM
Tae Che sits, eats, and drinks with the others, She doesn't notice anything wrong with Trevvor nor is she listening when he speaks to the others.
Drotar Zaviyar (Robert S) AC 14/12/12 CMD 16 HP 14 Thursday November 11th, 2021 10:41:37 PM
Drotar decides to visit Sundel and Faign, to see if they have anything else worth knowing. If possible, he goes to where they are being cared for, otherwise, he stays with the party and listens during the conversation with Trevvor.
Einar (StevenVdB) - HP27/27 - AC18/13/15 - CMD 18 d20-1=14 ; d20=8 ; Friday November 12th, 2021 5:58:34 AM
Being a true diplomat Einar has no interaction going with Trevvor nor can he tell what caused the injuries but Einar does agree with Drotar that it might be interesting to have a chat with the other two hunters.
"If we're going in a swamp we might want to get some safety ropes or some poles with us in case anyone gets stuck. Would the hunters know a safe route through the swamp? "
Gore'Thum and Teddy Treeborn (Mitch) HP 12/12 AC 12/11/12 CMD 11 Gore'Thum HP 16 AC 12/12/11 d20=11 ; d20=4 ; Friday November 12th, 2021 8:29:51 AM
Teddy becomes even more convinced that he really, really, really doesn't want to go when the men come back so injured. Gore'Thum assures Teddy that he's almost certainly seen worse. "That's no comfort, I used a giant then!!"
“Benni” AC 19/12/17 CMD13 HP 13/13 Onesimos (SteveK) d20+7=24 ; d20+2=6 ; d6=4 ; d6=5 ; d6=5 ; Friday November 12th, 2021 9:31:46 AM
Onesimos is knowledgeable in Healing but Diplomacy escapes the elf. He seeks out Trevvor, Sundel, and Faign, to ask them what they encountered and how to find the path to the others. He will heal each with a burst of positive energy (channel Energy: 4, 5, and 5 respectively)
Hopefully, his concern for them will allow them to openly tell the team what no one is skilled enough to wheedle out of them. …. Heal 24 Diplomacy 6
“Benni” AC 19/12/17 CMD13 HP 13/13 Onesimos (SteveK) d20+7=26 ; Friday November 12th, 2021 9:41:02 AM
FOR KRISTOPH
Kristoph gets some more information from Trevvor. A. path into the Spirit Swamp lies just twenty five miles west along the swamp road. On the north side of the road is a burned out tree stump. Walk thirty feet beyond it into the wood and you will find the path to the swamp. The path diverges many times but if you stay to the northern routes you’ll eventually find an old set of standing stones. There in the grove at their center the plant sometimes can be found. If the hunters haven’t taken it already you’ll also find a small boat you can use to travel deeper into the swamp to the Monument Graves. This old grave yard is located in a section of the swamp where cypress trees have grown closely enough to shape a small island. The Spirit Woad grows next to the stones there. Then there is the Barrow Hill. It’s another graveyard of sorts and the Woad grows atop it.
The gruff little gnome surprises himself with his ability to wheedle information from this Trevor fella. He keeps his voice low as he speak to Trevor.
"Say there Trevor, looks like the swamp beat you up some. How'd your friends fare? You mentioned a couple of graveyard. Any undead things or spooky stuff we should watch out for? Thanks for the info on where to go and what to be careful of."
Snark smiles at Teddy's apprehension. "Heh, no worries there Ursa Minor. We're about the same size, you an' me. Stick with me an' we'll figure this out together. Besides, we got a bunch of big folk with us, a firecat and a battle frog! What could go wrong?"
Isaac Harker (Justin M) HP 24/24 AC18/ T12 / FF 16 d20+4=24 ; d20+7=11 ; Friday November 12th, 2021 9:53:04 PM
Isaac is relived that the hunters have returned but has questions for them. As he looks over Trevvor he notices the cut's and scrapes looking more like he ran through a bush and into thorny vines. They didn't appear to be from any animal. He tries to get the man to open up about what happened but it seems he only wanted to speak to all the Luck Bringers.
"Trevor you look like you hit every tree and bush getting back here what did you see? Some monster, a fey, or was it a spirit?"
Heal(24) Nat Twenty! Diplomacy (11) Nat 4 :(
DM JamesM: Council Chambers Saturday November 13th, 2021 5:21:53 PM
Trevvor wasn’t talking to anyone, but Kristophs win in the drinking game endowed him with a little street cred that won the Woad hunter over after some assurances that the heroes wouldn’t take their jobs from them. Trevvor explained the way and offered that a few of them didn’t make it out when they were startled at night. The fear that overcame them had them running through the dark and he fell in a low spot. The cirgeon said it was only a mild break which explained how he was able to run back with it.
The other hunters that escaped weren’t talking as they were too frightened of angering the powers. They’d sworn off any more trips into the swamp.
Tae-Che (Jim) HP 9/9 AC 12/12/10 CMD 13 Saturday November 13th, 2021 9:26:07 PM
Tae Che will join the others as they head out down the trail and eventually into the swamp itself. She will light a torch or hold any other light source given to her.
“Benni” AC 19/12/17 CMD13 HP 13/13 Onesimos (SteveK) Sunday November 14th, 2021 1:57:24 PM
Onesimos edges to Kristophe. ”can you ask the names and descriptions of the other hunters? You seem to have a good rapport. We will rescue the others better if we know how many and what they look like.”
Einar (StevenVdB) - HP27/27 - AC18/13/15 - CMD 18 Sunday November 14th, 2021 5:02:52 PM
Before heading out, Einar will check the local store for some hemp or silk rope. 50ft will do nicely in case of trouble. Once he has the rope he makes a knot at one end with a hole to put your wrist through. And then a few more knots to make sure the rope offers a good grip.
"So... when do we leave?"
Gore'Thum and Teddy Treeborn (Mitch) HP 12/12 AC 12/11/12 CMD 11 Gore'Thum HP 16 AC 12/12/11 Sunday November 14th, 2021 7:39:08 PM
(Stupid typo, he was a giant then)
Teddy takes some small comfort in Snark's assurance. He's as ready to leave as he'll ever be.
Isaac Harker (Justin M) HP 24/24 AC18/ T12 / FF 16 Sunday November 14th, 2021 9:31:14 PM
Isaac ask's Trevvor before they leave about the swamp. "I understand the swamp is a dangerous place can you tell me about the dangers that you regularly faced while you did your jobs or any more information about the swamp. The council also said something about the Woad being in a graveyard can you tell us anything about it like is it a human graveyard or is it still used?
DM JamesM: Plotting and Preparations Monday November 15th, 2021 9:22:26 AM
DM James: Backing up some...
Snark's return with the bucket sized beer was appreciated by the councilman, Snark would definately be able to call in a favor with that one at some point.
DM James: Snark gets a favor...
Though Einar was listening carefully to the council members it became clear that it was only going to be a 1,000 gp for them to split, not a thousand each.
In answer to Drotar's suggestion about growing the Woad locally he's told that woad will grow locally, but Spirit Woad needs the energies found in the Spirit Swamp to properly form. Something about the holy energies in the graves there that embue the plant with it's special properties.
Kristoph Highlight to display spoiler: {Everyone is acting shifty, but it could be that they are all on edge or Kristoph just missed the mark.}
Tae-Che Highlight to display spoiler: {She had noticed very few people in town seemed to trust her, but her admission that Heranmar was her home had a notable impact on a few people in the room as well as the mayor.}
It was still early evening when the council ended their session and the mayor escorted the heroes back to the tavern. Along the way he offered to open the tradehouse tonight if they needed any supplies as he'd really like them to head out at first light. He's willing to advance each member 25gp in equipment.
At the Tavern...
In speaking with Trevvor you discover that Gabor, Illarial, Sundel, Faign, and Percivan were the other hunters. Trevvor, Sundel, and Faign returned this morning. They all suffered injuries and he's certain Faign was bitten by a Reefclaw.
KS: Nature DC 11 Highlight to display spoiler: {Reefclaws are vicious predators. They possess greater intelligence than animals, but rely mainly on their strength and instincts to survive. They hunt fish, giant crabs, dolphins, and even land-dwelling creatures that come within a hundred paces of the water.}
Isaac's question about the swamp and it's dangers gets the following advice:
Like any swamp there are soft spots that might drag you under so it's best to stay to the path. If you are sharp of eye there are markers in the swamp. Small stone monuments with numbers chiseled into them. Next to number 112 they might find his bow, that's where he fell. He warns you about dragon fish, pirates, and reefclaw. Occasionally they've encountered lizard folk, but at this time of year the creatures would be moving slowly and likely keep to their warm burrows.
KS: History DC 15Highlight to display spoiler: {The graveyards in the Spirit Swamp predate the port town and some people think that before the great migration the area was dry and not flooded as it now is. Though most people have respected the dead here those that have investigated the area have found evidence of a previous group of noble houses that used the place to bury their dead.}
“Benni” AC 19/12/17 CMD13 HP 13/13 Onesimos (SteveK) Monday November 15th, 2021 1:25:57 PM
Onesimos nods, listening to the dangers and the Mayor’s offer. The elf is not skilled as a hunter, but wise enough to ask. ”Trevvor, what are the needed equipment for a Spirit Woad Hunter? Should I get a long pole or canoe shoes?”. The last is said with a wink: Benni is hoping the ‘canoe shoes’ are a joke!
Based on Trevvor’s answer, Onesimos will gladly accept the Mayor’s offer to open the Trade House!
Kristoph: (Stephen C) | AC:17 | CMD:21 | HP: 19/19 - Blusinda: AC:12 | HP:16/16 Monday November 15th, 2021 5:38:03 PM
Kristoph is silently ready for this job, but something still plays on his mind
Tae-Che (Jim) HP 9/9 AC 12/12/10 CMD 13 Monday November 15th, 2021 8:43:41 PM
Tae Che, buys a round for the tavern when they get back after the meeting. She has a smile on her face and is enjoying the company of both her companions and the townsfolk. She doesn't get anything from the trade house.
Gore'Thum and Teddy Treeborn (Mitch) HP 12/12 AC 12/11/12 CMD 11 Gore'Thum HP 16 AC 12/12/11 Tuesday November 16th, 2021 7:45:16 AM
Gore'Thum comments that it sounds like home. Teddy looks even less happy at the details.
Einar (StevenVdB) - HP27/27 - AC18/13/15 - CMD 18 d20+6=8 ; Tuesday November 16th, 2021 8:45:09 AM
Einar frowns when he realizes they'll be splitting 1000 gold with the whole group but ok... it's a matter of gaining reputation also. While he normally has a good knowledge of nature, Einar can't identify what creature caused the bite marks on Faign.
"I doubt we'll be heading to the swamp in the evening?
Snark Riverstone (MarkB) AC13 T13 F10, CMD 11, HP 15/15 d20+7=20 ; Tuesday November 16th, 2021 12:22:21 PM
(Knowldge Nature 20 - Does he know more about reefclaw than what the DM noted?)
Snark listens to all of this. "Dragon fish, pirates, and reefclaw. Oh my! Not sure what dragon fish are, but reefclaws are vicious predators. They possess greater intelligence than animals, but rely mainly on their strength and instincts to survive. They hunt fish, giant crabs, dolphins, and even land-dwelling creatures that come within a hundred paces of the water. Sounds bad to me."
He will go buy some more torches and ask Einar the Mighty to carry them for the little gnome. "These might come in handy to keep swarms at bay."
Snark will also ask the locals about any kind of herbal remedies or things you can burn to keep insects away.
Isaac Harker (Justin M) HP 24/24 AC18/ T12 / FF 16 Tuesday November 16th, 2021 3:31:48 PM
"Thank you for telling us Trevor we'll be sure to bring the others and your bow back." Realizing going into the swamp unprepared Isaac decides to take the mayor up on his offer.
Isaac will try and buy a waterproof lantern and oil for it.
Kristoph: (Stephen C) | AC:17 | CMD:21 | HP: 19/19 - Blusinda: AC:12 | HP:16/16 Tuesday November 16th, 2021 3:49:48 PM
Kristoph listens to all the town's people, their fears, concerns and requests in silence, then adds: "I share your concern brothers and sisters for this is our home too now. My W.L.A. companions, myself and the blue fire cat herself will do everything we can to assist you"!
On the way back he is once again silent, chewing his lip, appearing to be lost in thought but in reality he studies every shadow, coiled and ready to spring at the slightest movement. It may take a really good/trained eye to perceive this posture. It seems to be a Kristoph thing. Ever ready for action but appearing calm, relaxed or distracted. To a really eagle-eyed person who understands this - it might be possible to tell he seems (perhaps even?) extra cautious tonight, despite the party being within the town.
Back at the inn he crouches in front of the fire and carefully places a log into the hearth, stroking the flickering blue flame for a while. Blusinda's heat doesn't seem to bother him and he talks to her in ignan: "Will I never be free from them girl"? he asks the flames. "Half of Wold have I travelled and yet still they hound me. Am I never to be rid of his evil"?
Tae-Che (Jim) HP 9/9 AC 12/12/10 CMD 13 Tuesday November 16th, 2021 9:52:38 PM
Tae Che sleeps fitfully and wakes early to get ready to head out with everyone.
Drotar Zaviyar (Robert S) AC 14/12/12 CMD 16 HP 14 Tuesday November 16th, 2021 10:04:12 PM
Drotar spends the day lost in silent thought, trying to piece together the puzzle of this town. Something's felt off here for a while, and he doesn't like it. He's naturally suspicious, and the strange behavior of the townsfolk keeps setting off all kinds of alarm bells. Drotar doesn't have anything solid to go on but....he sleeps lightly.
Einar (StevenVdB) - HP27/27 - AC18/13/15 - CMD 18 Wednesday November 17th, 2021 5:41:13 AM
Einar nods to Snark as he asks to carry a few extra torches. Torches... some rope... and the cool touch of sharpened steel... the barbarian is as ready one can be to venture into this swamp.
Gore'Thum and Teddy Treeborn (Mitch) HP 12/12 AC 12/11/12 CMD 11 Gore'Thum HP 16 AC 12/12/11 Wednesday November 17th, 2021 8:07:34 AM
Teddy has a drink to fortify his nerves for the eventual trip. His small size renders him quickly drunk, much to the disapproval of Gore'Thum who puts him to bed to sleep it off.
“Benni” AC 19/12/17 CMD13 HP 13/13 Onesimos (SteveK) Wednesday November 17th, 2021 11:27:55 AM
Onesimos waits to see what the swamp hunters use before going to the trade house and buying equipment.
Kristoph: (Stephen C) | AC:17 | CMD:21 | HP: 19/19 - Blusinda: AC:12 | HP:16/16 Wednesday November 17th, 2021 6:16:40 PM
Kristoph contemplates his future looking for inspiration in the bottom of an ale cup (or three)
Head's Up from the DM (MarkB) Wednesday November 17th, 2021 7:54:08 PM
DM James has been a bit under the weather. Should be a DM post up tomorrow.
Einar (StevenVdB) - HP27/27 - AC18/13/15 - CMD 18 Thursday November 18th, 2021 1:59:54 AM
Once Selene's shift is over in the Blue Cat Inn, Einar and her cuddle up in front of the blue fire admiring Kristophe's companion.
Gore'Thum and Teddy Treeborn (Mitch) HP 12/12 AC 12/11/12 CMD 11 Gore'Thum HP 16 AC 12/12/11 Thursday November 18th, 2021 7:19:53 AM
Teddy has never had a hangover before. It is a novel experience he does not want to repeat.
DM JamesM: Departure Map d100=74 ; d100=63 ; d100=34 ; d100=82 ; d100=20 ; Thursday November 18th, 2021 1:29:39 PM
DM James: Please send me a list of anything you get from the tradehouse.
The Woad hunters typically rely on heavy boots, kindling to start fires for warmth, and warm clothing. They also recommend a dry bag for anything that can't get wet, like a spellbook. The dry bags here can hold one spellbook or 10 pounds of goods and have to be dried and oiled after each exposure to water. One bag costs 5gp.
Morning came and the air was cold and misty with no rain as they gathered downstairs in the Blue Cat Tavern. Eugene the sheriff and the Mayor were both there to see the heroes off on their journey.
"It's going to be dark and overcast, but no rain for as far as our weather seer can....see."
Clouds overhead are intense and the day dark as a result. Travel to the west gate is easy enough but once out beyond the walls of the town a chill wind cuts through them like a knife. By the time they reach the edge of the woods half a mile distant and it's relative protection from the coastal winds they are all chilled to the bone as the mist in the trees closes around them....
DM James: You might want to be thinking about Marching order and preparatory measures. A map with starting locations is provided. It's recommended you edit your position on the map.
Tae-Che (Jim) HP 9/9 AC 12/12/10 CMD 13 Thursday November 18th, 2021 10:33:10 PM
Tae Che will request being in the middle of the marching order and will carry a light source for the party. She also gets a dry bag for her things along with some kindling for camp use.
Gore'Thum and Teddy Treeborn (Mitch) HP 12/12 AC 12/11/12 CMD 11 Gore'Thum HP 16 AC 12/12/11 Friday November 19th, 2021 8:09:39 AM
Teddy and Gore'Thum are happy with the suggested marching order. He doesn't have anything he has to keep safe but brings some dried meat that shouldn't be spoiled by getting a little wet.
Isaac Harker (Justin M) HP 24/24 AC18/ T12 / FF 16 Friday November 19th, 2021 8:34:39 AM
Isaac will be near the front using a bullseye lantern to illuminate the way. However he tells the other he will need someone with good ears and eyes to help watch for ambushes. Just because the lizard men should be in their huts or asleep doesn't guarantee it.
The Swamp Road
DM JamesM: Over the Hills and Through the Woods Map Friday November 19th, 2021 9:34:03 AM
The cold, the dread, and shortly after, the rain. A soaking rain rather than a hammering one. It felt unnatural and nothing seemed to prevent it from penetrating every pore of their being as they moved along the wide trail of the swamp road. Up ahead the forest was dark as the mist, dark clouds, and rain made visibility difficult.
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.}
Perception DC 18 Highlight to display spoiler: {It smells like sheep or wet dog to the north side of the road.}
Snark Riverstone (MarkB) AC13 T13 F10, CMD 11, HP 15/15 d20+8=22 ; d20+6=22 ; Friday November 19th, 2021 11:41:57 AM
Before leaving, Snark went to the tradehouse to get 10 torches, which Einar agreed to carry for the little gnome. He makes sure to get a waterproof bag for his spellbook as well as some oil to reapply to keep it in shape. He also gets a small oiled tarp so he has something to put against the ground and drape over him to keep him dry.
Before he goes, Snark will also apply some of that oil used on the bag to his backpack to make sure it stays dry as well.
His cold weather outfit already has warm clothing and sturdy oiled boots. He's glad for this as they head out into the cold and damp. (+5 to Fort saves against the cold. Save 22.)
As he goes he keeps a sharp eye out and sniffs the air. (Perception 22.) "Hey, you guys smell that? It smells like a wet animal, and not just us - maybe a sheep or a dog. I think it's that way. Think something's hiding there?"
Snark Riverstone (MarkB) AC13 T13 F10, CMD 11, HP 15/15 Friday November 19th, 2021 12:21:54 PM
Also, Snark casts Resistance on himself and moves away from the north side of the road where he smelled that wet animal. (moved on map)
Acid Dart (Sp) 6 - 0 used Gnome (Sp) 1/day - Dancing Lights, Ghost Sound, Prestidigitation, and Speak with Animals.
Tae-Che (Jim) HP 9/9 AC 12/12/10 CMD 13 d20=12 ; d20+2=4 ; Friday November 19th, 2021 9:24:20 PM
Tae Che slogs through the mist, rain and darkness. At some point, she felt all her energy drain out of her (Fort: 12) and it was starting to get all that she had to keep up with the others. This probably didn't help her in seeing or hearing anything until Snark mentioned something to the side of the trail. Peering out in that direction, Tae Che couldn't see anything at all (Perception: 4)
Drotar Zaviyar (Robert S) AC 14/12/12 CMD 16 HP 14 d20+8=9 ; d20+4=16 ; Friday November 19th, 2021 9:43:24 PM
Drotar purchases two sets of warm weather clothes and a dry bag with his own gold from previous jobs, storing his tools and crossbows within the bag, to make sure they aren't damaged from the wet. He figures he can get by with his daggers if he needs to hit things at range, and if he needs to hit something farther away he has time to open his bag.
He stays towards the front of the group, double axe out and ready, scanning the woods as best he can. He's no woodsman, but he picked up a few tricks over the years.
Unfortunately his new set of "cold weather gear" is sorely lacking. The leather is cracked, the fur is old and falling apart, the seams are coming undone. It feels more like he's standing in the cold practically naked, and he curses as he shivers, trying to stay warm with wet feet. He changes into his other set of gear when he can. and curses under his breath at the smiling merchant who pulled one over on him.
He is much too distracted by the cold to notice anything on his own, but when Snark mentions something he sniffs the air.
"I can't smell anything other than the cold and the wet. Are you sure?"
(Fort save, +3 normal, +5 from the gear, 9 total. Nat 1s are fun. 16 Perception.)
“Benni” AC 18/11/17 CMD12 HP 13/13 Onesimos (SteveK) d20+4=6 ; d20+5=19 ; Saturday November 20th, 2021 4:55:31 AM
Onesimos takes the advice, and purchases warm clothes, stout boots, and a waterproof bag.
Benni adjusts the marching order.
In the miserable rain, the clothes avail him not, and weariness settles about him. He worries that to dispel the weariness now would only mean for it to return, and so the cleric doesn’t use his special fatigue-banishing ability.
Trudging on, his head comes up at Snark’s comment. ”I smell it too, be ready!” he calls to his companions. The elf readied his Morningstar and buckler.
……. Fort 4+5 for cold clothes. 9. Fail Perception. 19
fatigued. No run/ charge, –2 Str and Dex
Isaac Harker (Justin M) HP 24/24 AC18/ T12 / FF 16 d20+8=24 ; d20+2=5 ; Saturday November 20th, 2021 10:43:42 PM
Isaac holds the lantern in his left hand illuminating the swamp. It seems the group is ready to charge in. "I thought the weather was supposed to be clear. How is this clear?" He grumbles as the rain beats down. When snark says something about an animal he raises the lantern pointing it where the gnome gestured.
Einar (StevenVdB) - HP27/27 - AC18/13/15 - CMD 18 d20+6=18 ; d20+5=24 ; Sunday November 21st, 2021 5:05:31 AM
Einar has brought an extra 50ft of rope (so he now has 100ft of rope) and Snark's supplement of torches (he now has 12 :-) )
(Fort save 18 - not fatigued) (Perception 24 - Einar also smells the 'wet dog')
Einar nods as Snark points to where the smell comes from. "Careful friends... we don't want to wander too far from the trail... after all this IS a swamp.
The barbarian will not take point as they are exploring. He will position himself just after the scouts. Blade ready he follows the rest of the pack.
Gore'Thum and Teddy Treeborn (Mitch) HP 12/12 AC 12/11/12 CMD 11 Gore'Thum HP 16 AC 12/12/11 d20+5=21 ; d20+6=19 ; Sunday November 21st, 2021 12:46:20 PM
Gore'Thum enjoys the wet and the rain. He's totally unbothered by a day's wet march (19 fort). Teddy is as waterlogged and miserable as you'd expect, but he seems accustomed to doing things he doesn't like and manages to pace himself and keep his energy up (21 fort)
Kristoph: (Stephen C) | AC:17 | CMD:21 | HP: 19/19 - Blusinda: AC:12 | HP:16/16 d20+10=27 ; d20+7=10 ; d20+3=14 ; Sunday November 21st, 2021 5:26:03 PM
Kristoph also follows the advice and purchases warm clothes and a waterproof bag, carefully wrapping his journal and rations, etc. The miserable weather doesn't perturb him overly but Blusinda's flame hisses as the rain hits. She looks miserable and he quickly casts Rose's Temperature Control on the blue -fire-cat.
He fails to smell anything but lifts up his lantern and wipes rain from his brow as he stares into the darkness.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------- Fort 5 (+5 for cold clothes): 27. Pass. Perception: 10 Blusinda fails and feels the cold till protected by Rose's Temperature Control.
Spells/Effects Running: Rose's Temperature Control on Blusinda. Spells/abilities available, * = cast/used:
Einar (StevenVdB) - HP27/27 - AC18/13/15 - CMD 18 Monday November 22nd, 2021 4:37:00 AM
Ah forgot to say Selene of course made sure Einar's got decent protective gear against the damp weather and his backpack's secure also. You don't want to have wet torches when they are most needed... Einar also assumes Snark's got something to light the torches with.
DM JamesM: Mid-day Map d20+11=12 ; d20+8=25 ; d8+4=6 ; d20+8=13 ; d6=6 ; d6=2 ; Monday November 22nd, 2021 9:47:17 AM
Puddles from the rain had formed in the ruts of the swamp road as they trudged onward. There was the edge of the swamp to their right and the mysterious Mistwood to their left. Being new to the region none of them really knew much about either, but the road here was well maintained with no chance of falling into a mud bog or quicksand as one might have thought. Based on the directions Trevvor had given them they wouldn't find the burned out tree stump until the end of the day.
Snarks observation about the smell of dog and sheep had everyone just a little on edge and Benni called out to everyone to be ready as his eyes flashed across their surroundings and looked for possible threats.
Isaac held his lantern up in the twilight darkness of the Swamp Road as three giant slavering sheep bounded over a row of thick underbrush. At the same time a large snarling dog came from under the bushes and went for Drotar's legs. The horse sized sheep nipped at Gore'Thrum and Kristoph. The last of the sheep landed short and would take a moment to clear the foliage as it's flashing red eyes focused on Benni.
The dog went straight for Drotar's legs, but stumbled on a root and face planted as it scrambled about and tried to regain it's footing to try again. The first of the sheep ran right up on the large frogman and took a bite out of the amphibious man while the last two were either too far away or just not lucky enough to land a bite.
KS: Nature DC 13 Highlight to display spoiler: {This is not a normal dog, there is something "dire" about it.}
KS: Nature DC 14 Highlight to display spoiler: {Not normal sheep, the size of horses they are and they have fangs.}
DM: Dog - Drotar, Roll 12, Miss(Fumble) Sheep1 - Gore'Thrum, Roll 25, Hit! Damage 6 hp. FORT Save DC 14 Sheep2 - Kristoph, Roll 13, Miss. Sheep3(out of range)
“Benni” AC 18/11/17 CMD12 HP 13/13 Onesimos (SteveK) d20+2=21 ; d8+1=4 ; Monday November 22nd, 2021 1:29:14 PM
Onesimos is startled. “Carnivorous sheep? What is this place!”. The devotee doesn’t let the question hamper his actions. He steps up and swings his Morningstar at Sheep1 who just bit the frog friend of Teddy.
Snark Riverstone (MarkB) AC13 T13 F10, CMD 11, HP 15/15 d20+7=15 ; d20+7=26 ; Monday November 22nd, 2021 3:13:13 PM
(Snark make both Knowledge Nature checks. Are the sheep medium or large like horses?)
"Whoa! That dog is more'n just a dog. And those are some mighty big man-eating sheep. Never seen a sheep with fangs before.
"Careful now, I'm gonna put down some grease on the ground in the middle there.
Snark will cast Grease on the area outlined in blue - Reflex Save DC 14.
DM Note: Large, Like Horses.
---------------------------- Grease - A grease spell covers a solid surface with a layer of slippery grease. Any creature in the area when the spell is cast must make a successful Reflex save or fall. A creature can walk within or through the area of grease at half normal speed with a DC 10 Acrobatics check. Failure means it can’t move that round (and must then make a Reflex save or fall), while failure by 5 or more means it falls (see the Acrobatics skill for details). Creatures that do not move on their turn do not need to make this check and are not considered flat-footed.
Tae-Che (Jim) HP 9/9 AC 12/12/10 CMD 13 Monday November 22nd, 2021 3:49:36 PM
Tae Che casts Mage Armor on herself and readies her longspear to attack any of the sheep that come close enough to strike at.
Einar (StevenVdB) - HP27/27 - AC18/13/15 - CMD 18 d20+7=26 ; d20+7=27 ; 2d4+6=11 ; d20+6=9 ; d20+6=9 ; Monday November 22nd, 2021 5:32:31 PM
Einar is quite confident a Half-Orc like Drotar would kill that dog 1on1 but he's blocked from getting to the sheep in order to help the more squishy team members. So he decides to help Drotar ending the dog quickly. (Knowledge nature 9 and 9 - both fail)
The Barbarian steps up to the dog and swings his Falchion. Hits AC26 - Crit check 20 (Nat 20 - OMG) - damage 22
Kristoph: (Stephen C) | AC:17 | CMD:21 | HP: 19/19 - Blusinda: AC:12 | HP:16/16 d20+3=14 ; d20+3=6 ; d6+4=7 ; d20+2=9 ; Monday November 22nd, 2021 7:01:21 PM
Kristoph kicks (flurry) 14 & 6 to hit. (7 damage if needed). Meanwhile Blusinda moves around behind him and snaps at sheep 2 also (9 to hit)
Isaac Harker (Justin M) HP 24/24 AC18/ T12 / FF 16 d20+2=6 ; d20+3=23 ; d8=2 ; Monday November 22nd, 2021 10:31:14 PM
Isaac moves toward the ferocious hound. He pauses for a moment closes his eyes and focuses on the aura of the beast. Was it possessed he thought. He swung at the creature with his sword.
Initiative 6 Attack 23 damage 4×2=8 Isaac can detect evil at will
Drotar Zaviyar (Robert S) AC 14/12/12 CMD 16 HP 14 d20+3=19 ; d20+1=17 ; d8+4=5 ; d8+4=5 ; d6=4 ; d6=2 ; Tuesday November 23rd, 2021 1:40:03 AM
Drotar sidesteps the floundering hound, readying his weapon with barely a second thought. His staff begins twirling around, whistling through the air with surprising speed, the blades seeming more like streaks of fire than steel as they reflect the torch light. Suddenly his mind processes what he saw behind him, and his head snaps back around.
"Is that a sheep?! Now even the livestock's gone crazy?"
(Five foot step free action, full round attack, first attack, 19+2 flanking bonus, 9 damage, second attack, 17+2 flanking bonus, 7 damage, sneak attack on both. Forgot to add the flanking bonus in when I had rolled so had to add it in here.)
DM Jon: Hello and Well Met Tuesday November 23rd, 2021 2:14:43 AM OOC: Just wanted to drop by and say "Howdy Y'all." I'll be your new Co-Dm/GM, and don't worry about that Black Dragon sharpening it's teeth, it's just a fig newton of y'all imagination.
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+3=7 ; Tuesday November 23rd, 2021 8:12:06 AM
Teddy flinches back at the sudden assault of the strange creatures, but then Gore'Thum gets injured and he gets mad. "Get away from him!" he yells as he casts a curse on the thing. In it's eyes the frog now looms great and fearsome (cause fear, works only on DC 5 or less, becomes frightened, or if it makes DC 14 will save only shaken).
Gore'Thum strikes out at his attacker but isn't able to damage it through the thick wool (7 to hit)
DM JamesM: Mid-day Round 1Map d20+4=23 ; d20+5=17 ; d20+5=10 ; d20+5=15 ; d20+11=23 ; d6+8=10 ; d20+2=4 ; d4=3 ; d20+8=15 ; d20+6=8 ; d20+8=9 ; Tuesday November 23rd, 2021 10:15:28 AM Benni stepped up and struck the sheep attacking Gore'Thrum. Snark cast a Grease spell. Tae-Che cast Mage Armor and readied her longspear. Einar moved to help Drotar with the dog and struck it with his sword. Kristoph moved away from the main group and attacked the sheep trying to bite him. Isaac moved towards the dog and struck it with his sword.
DM James: A paladin's detect evil requires a move action. I'm not certain if he moved more than 5', if not then Highlight to display spoiler: {Isaac detects no evil within 60'}
Drotar attacks the dog as well. Teddy yelled at the sheep and cast a curse on it.
Benni's morningstar glanced off the sheeps body, but he could tell it was a solid hit and he prepared his next action. Snark's spell went off and a thick layer of grease formed on the ground beneath two of the attacking sheep, but for the moment they didn't seem affected by it. Tae stood back ready with her spear in case one of her team mates fell.
The dog bit at Drotar once more, this time it sank it's teeth in the half-orcs leg and started to shake it's head as its teeth tore into the man.
Einar stepped up and struck the dog a mighty blow. With a yelp of pain the dog continued it's attack on Drotar heedless of the damage it just sustained. Drotar had had enough and his weapon sliced at the crazed animal and killed it as it spasmed against his leg with ineffectual bites.
Gore'Thrum rose up in the Sheep's mind as a terrifying embodiment of amphibian death. The sheeps evil looking red eyes widened as it turned to flee through the thick underbrush. (DM James: Benni and Gore get an AoO, note that the underbrush is difficult terrain if you decide to pursue it. You also need to make a Reflex Save DC14 to move through the Grease.)
Kristoph attacked with a flurry of hands and feet and struck the sheep once.
DM: Dog - Drotar, Roll 23, Hit! Damage 10 hp, Make a FORT Save DC 14 Sheep1 - Gore'Thrum, Cause Fear(Teddy) DC 14, Fail. Fleeing. Sheep2 - Kristoph, Roll 15, Miss. Sheep3 - Drotar, Roll 9, Miss.
Status Dog - Dead Sheep 1 - AC 13, 4 hp (Fleeing) Sheep 2 - AC 13, 7 hp Sheep 3 - AC 13, Undamaged
Snark Riverstone (MarkB) AC13 T13 F10, CMD 11, HP 15/15 Tuesday November 23rd, 2021 11:03:49 AM "Wow, you guys made short work of that dog, and one of them sheep bolted.
"That looks like a bad bite there Drotar. Maybe I can help a little."
Snark casts Resistance and scurries up to Drotar, touching the man. (Grants Drotar +1 bonus on one save.)
Kristoph: (Stephen C) | AC:17 | CMD:21 | HP: 19/19 - Blusinda: AC:12 | HP:16/16 d20+3=23 ; d20+3=23 ; d20+3=22 ; d20+3=22 ; d6+4=8 ; d6+4=6 ; Tuesday November 23rd, 2021 2:10:24 PM
Kristoph is slightly surprised when his blow lands on the vile Sheep (having been caught off guard). Emboldened by the success the martial artist executes two perfect blows - to its neck.
(OOC -- OMG 2 nat 20's followed by two 19's to confirm! I don't think I have ever rolled that good!!!) :-o
Attacks (flurry) 23 for 16 damage followed by: 23 for 12 damage.
DM James: Edited to replace dog with sheep.
“Benni” AC 18/11/17 CMD12 HP 13/13 Onesimos (SteveK) d20+2=9 ; d20+2=7 ; Tuesday November 23rd, 2021 2:45:24 PM
Benni swings at the fleeing sheep, but misses (miss AOO)
Instead of pursuing, the elf moves through his ally, Teddy’s Frog, and joins Kristoph in attacking Sheep2. (Missing again)
Kristoph: (Stephen C) | AC:17 | CMD:21 | HP: 19/19 - Blusinda: AC:12 | HP:16/16 d20+2=7 ; Tuesday November 23rd, 2021 3:13:18 PM
(OOC thanks for edit DM James! Welcome DM Jon & also thanks for the sub the other week SteveK)
Blusinda misses... 9
Einar (StevenVdB) - HP27/27 - AC18/13/15 - CMD 18 Tuesday November 23rd, 2021 7:36:00 PM
With the dog gone Einar checks where he might help out. But already one sheep is on the run... another one's being pummeled heavily by Kristoph and the last sheep is dancing in the grease. Unwilling to step into the grease Einar stops just in front of it. Should the sheep attempt to come near the barbarian just hopes for an AoO
Isaac Harker (Justin M) HP 24/24 AC18/ T12 / FF 16 Tuesday November 23rd, 2021 9:49:46 PM
Isaac takes a moment and concentrates on the red eyed sheep trying to get a sense of any sort of possession.
(Isaac did move last turn so he didn't get to detect evil on the dog in that case. He will focus on the sheep.)
Tae-Che (Jim) HP 9/9 AC 12/12/10 CMD 13 d20+2=7 ; d20+2=19 ; d8+1=2 ; Tuesday November 23rd, 2021 10:06:29 PM
Tae Che takes a five-foot step and strikes at Sheep2 with her longspear. (Initiative: 7; To hit: 19; Damage: 2) The longspear nicks the sheep, drawing a small trickle of blood.
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+4=22 ; d20+4=21 ; d6=4 ; d6=5 ; Wednesday November 24th, 2021 7:48:39 AM
Gore'Thum bites the fleeing sheep (22 to hit, 6 damage) before moving diaganally 5 feet to hit sheep two (21 to hit, 7 damage). Teddy considers making another flee but decides to save his spells for healing if it's needed.
DM JamesM: Mid-day Round 2Map d20+8=16 ; d8+4=12 ; Wednesday November 24th, 2021 8:55:11 AM
DM James: Still missing a FORT save from Drotar, DC14.
Benni swung his weapon at the fleeing sheep then moved to help Kristoph. Snark cast Resistance on Drotar Tae-Che attacked with her longspear. Einar waited... Kristoph struck his opponent twice with two devastating punches. Isaac turned his god given senses towards the sheep.
Isaac Highlight to display spoiler: {Isaac detects no evil within 60'}
Teddy and Gore'Thrum coordinate their efforts as the giant frog strikes the fleeing sheep.
Only one sheep remained as the second of the three had died under the blows of the heroes and the first was fleeing in fright from Teddy's curse. The third one stood in the thick brush and snapped at Drotar with it's nasty fangs. It still didn't seem affected by the slippery ground as it lunged forward with it's long neck and nearly bit through Drotar's leg. Drotar went down in a heap as blood shot everywhere around him from the fatal wound.
The menacing sheep looked at the bloodied Gore'Thrum as it considered it's next target...and Drotar lay upon the ground dying...it was a moment in which all of you felt uncertain about this quest. Perhaps it was the dread you were feeling or the weather but it threatened to overwhelm you...
Drotar Highlight to display spoiler: {Please make another FORT save DC 14.}
DM: Drotar must make a DC18 Con check or lose 1 hp next round.
Dog - Dead Sheep1 - Fleeing Sheep2 - Dead Sheep3 - Drotar, Roll 16, Hit. Damage 12 hp. Drotar is at -8 hp.
Status Dog - Dead Sheep 1 - AC 13, 18 hp (Fleeing) Sheep 2 - AC 13, Dead Sheep 3 - AC 13, Undamaged
Everyone Make a DC 15 Will Save or be Shaken. A shaken character takes a –2 penalty on attack rolls, saving throws, skill checks, and ability checks. Shaken is a less severe state of fear than frightened or panicked.
Einar (StevenVdB) RAGE 0/13 - HP31/31 - AC16/11/13 - CMD 18 d20+2=3 ; d20+7=19 ; 2d4+9=13 ; Wednesday November 24th, 2021 11:42:03 AM
(Will save 3 - fail)
Einar is shaken by the ferocity of these sheep... "Oh Mother Maab..." Einar grunts as he sees Drotar go down, "Snark, Issac... pull Drotar away and save him... I'll do what I can to stop this sheep... or whatever it is..."
Now enraged, Einar moves around the grease and switches position with Drotar (moved Drotar back and positioned Einar in his spot on the map) to take a swing at the sheep. Shaken though his aim is less accurate... yet he comes close enough to strike.
Hits AC19 - damage 13HP
Not enough to make mutton cutlet's yet but every bit helps...
Kristoph: (Stephen C) | AC:17 | CMD:21 | HP: 19/19 - Blusinda: AC:12 | HP:16/16 d20+7=16 ; d20+1=8 ; d20+1=5 ; Wednesday November 24th, 2021 1:21:29 PM
Faced with the sudden bleak uncertainty Kristoph forces himself to occupy his mind by weighing up tactical options. Will: 16 - pass.
He concludes he can either channel/heal Drotar or leave it to the more experienced cleric and attempt to dish out some damage.
"Benni Can you heal Drotar? I'll cover you"! He steps (5 ft to AM19) and throws two shrunken at the sheep 3. He waits till Benni has acted to throw them but both fly wide of the beast anyway.
Blusinda (Can move 50 ft) circles around the party - her fire spitting and hissing in the drizzle.
Snark Riverstone (MarkB) AC13 T13 F10, CMD 11, HP 15/15 d20+7=17 ; Wednesday November 24th, 2021 2:42:01 PM
(Snark makes his will save - 17)
Snark isn't sure why folks seem reluctant to move into the difficult terrain to surround the Death-Sheep-From-Hell, but combat is not really his thing.
He tries to pull the mighty Drotar, but the man is just too heavy for the little gnome. "Ugh. This guy weighs a ton. Hey - one a' you healers able to fix up our buddy Drotar here?"
"Maybe I can do something else to help out."
Snark will again cast Resistance, this time on Einar. (Grants +1 resistance bonus to one save.)
“Benni” AC 18/11/17 CMD12 HP 13/13 Onesimos (SteveK) d8+2=7 ; Wednesday November 24th, 2021 5:16:22 PM
Onesimos hears that Drotar is down and withdraws from Sheep#3 and does a double move through Teddy’s space and then around to Drotar’s side. A mumbled prayer to his patron and a heroic effort allows him to cure the half-Orc of some damage.
….. Withdraw Move Action, no AOO for the sheep Standard Move Action, move to AL14 Use Hero Point for extra standard action. Spontaneously cast Cure Light Wounds over Magic Weapon. Heal Drotar 7 hit points
“Benni” AC 18/11/17 CMD12 HP 13/13 Onesimos (SteveK) d20+4=21 ; Wednesday November 24th, 2021 5:18:05 PM
Benni is not Shaken
Tae-Che (Jim) HP 9/9 AC 12/12/10 CMD 13 d20+5=18 ; d20+2=12 ; Wednesday November 24th, 2021 9:07:09 PM
Tae Che, through the drizzle and rain steels herself from the sight of one of her companion's bloodspurting all over the place (Will: 18). She steps five feet diagonally and is now in reach of Sheep3. She swings the longspear at it. The longspear slices through the air in front of the sheep to no effect.
Isaac Harker (Justin M) HP 24/24 AC18/ T12 / FF 16 d20+6=21 ; d6=3 ; Wednesday November 24th, 2021 10:37:21 PM
Isaac pushes down the fear he feels rising in him. He had been part of the guard he was trained for this. He places a hand on Drotar's shoulder and says his own hasty prayer. Will Save :21 Isaac heals Drotar for 3 damage.
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=3 ; d20=17 ; d20=13 ; d6=2 ; Thursday November 25th, 2021 9:17:47 AM
Teddy is all ready to rush over and heal Drotar but several other people seem to be doing it already. Gore'Thum tries to leap over the grease (4 acrobatics, he leaps less then 5 feet, 17 reflex), fails, but manages to keep his footing and advance to hit the monster (17 to hit, 4 damage)
Drotar Zaviyar (Robert S) AC 14/12/12 CMD 16 HP 2/14 SHAKEN d20+4=22 ; d20+4=13 ; d20+4=15 ; d20=3 ; d20+1=17 ; d4+2=6 ; Thursday November 25th, 2021 2:09:03 PM
Drotar staggers to his knees, clutching his bleeding leg, as he growls back in the face of the dying beast. Gritting his teeth through the pain as he collapses to the ground, he nearly passes out from the pain, and can feel his muscles trembling as he fights his body to stay conscious. He fumbles at his side for a dagger, seeing one of the fleeing sheep, and lets it fly, nailing the fleeing sheep in the back of one of its legs. With that he collapses to the ground, just as a barrage of healing magic stitches his side together, and letting him gasp back to consciousness.
[i](First save, PASS all other saves FAIL ouch, 17 to hit sheep, 6 damage. Using Orc Ferocity to not go down fully this turn.)
Isaac Harker (Justin M) HP 24/24 AC18/ T12 / FF 16 Thursday November 25th, 2021 6:26:19 PM
Isaac hopes Drotar will be ok. It was still strange to him that these creatures seemed to be not haunted but normal(?). He needed to talk to Teddy about these creatures.
Kristoph: (Stephen C) | AC:17 | CMD:21 | HP: 19/19 - Blusinda: AC:12 | HP:16/16 Thursday November 25th, 2021 6:43:13 PM
Kristoph rolls his shoulders limbering up
Einar (StevenVdB) RAGE 0/13 - HP31/31 - AC16/11/13 - CMD 18 Thursday November 25th, 2021 6:45:08 PM
Einar braces himself expecting the sheep to sink it's dire teeth in him soon...
DM JonS: Mid-day Round 3 Thursday November 25th, 2021 8:31:35 PM
Status Dog - Dead Sheep 1 - AC 13, 18 hp (Fleeing) Sheep 2 - AC 13, Dead Sheep 3 - AC 13, Undamaged
Everyone Make a DC 15 Will Save or be Shaken. A shaken character takes a –2 penalty on attack rolls, saving throws, skill checks, and ability checks. Shaken is a less severe state of fear than frightened or panicked.
Einar fails his save, he’s now “shaken”
Einar heroically attacks and strikes Sheep 3, causing it to begin to bleed profusely.
Kristoph attempts to his the Sheep with shuriken, but they are unable to penetrate the creatures thick wool
Snark strains to move Drotar away from the combat
Onesimos, once Drotar is close enough, calls out to the Gods and uses healing magics to save Drotar’s life
Tae-Che attacks and misses with her longspear
Issac reaches out and gives Drotar more healing (OOC: By my count, Drotar is now at 2hp)
Gore’Thum tries some acrobatics moves, and almost lands on his face, but is able to save the day with a successful strike upon the Dire Sheep
Drotar cuts the left front leg off the Dire Sheep as he summons his Orcish fortitude to save the day
*******
Sheep 1 is still fleeing at this time
Tae-Che (Jim) HP 9/9 AC 12/12/10 CMD 13 d20+2=4 ; Thursday November 25th, 2021 8:52:32 PM
Tae Che again swings her longspear to no effect against the sheep. She mumbles to herself, "Perhaps spells would be better..."
Kristoph: (Stephen C) | AC:17 | CMD:21 | HP: 19/19 - Blusinda: AC:12 | HP:16/16 d20+7=18 ; d20+2=8 ; Friday November 26th, 2021 7:14:51 AM
Kristoph maintains his composure (Will Save: 18 - Pass) whilst moving into the undergrowth (avoiding difficult terrain). Punching the air in front of him a firebolt wings over the fleeing sheep.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------- Spells/Effects Running: Rose's Temperature Control on Blusinda. Spells/abilities available, * = cast/used:
Fire Bolt: (Sp) 6 - 1 used Channel: (Su) 2 - 0 used
Einar (StevenVdB) RAGE 0/13 - HP31/31 - AC16/11/13 - CMD 18 Friday November 26th, 2021 10:46:22 AM
Relieved to see 2 sheep are dead and the 3rd one is fleeing Einar comes down from a short rage. (fatigued for 1 round). The madness these sheep showed has shaken Einar... he's reluctant to go any further...
(no indication of the duration of the Shaken status?)
“Benni” AC 18/11/17 CMD12 HP 13/13 Onesimos (SteveK) d20+1=3 ; Friday November 26th, 2021 12:24:29 PM
Ooc: Benni passed the Shaken last round, or is this another roll? …
Onesimos breathes a sigh of relief as the combat ends and the last sheep flees. He pulls out a scroll to do a more proper job of healing Drotar. ”Do you have scrolls or potions that can heal you, Drotar? I nearly didn’t make it over in time, and casting healing spells means I can’t cast other very useful defensive spells.”. He heals Drotar 3 hit points. ”In fact, it would be wise for everyone to have a healing potion or scroll that can be used for them; don’t always count on a Devine caster with spells to spare and available.”
There is something else that is bothering the elf, and he slowly works it out. ”Wasnt there a Heranmar shepherd that lost his sheep and dog? I’ll bet these were them!”
DM JonS: Mid-day After Combat Friday November 26th, 2021 1:12:41 PM
As the last sheep fades from view, those shaken by it and its' other Dire kin feel better.
Onesimos does puzzle out that the dog and sheep did belong to someone in Heranmar.
Whilst Onesimos is healing Drotar, what are others doing?
Perception Check 15 Highlight to display spoiler: { You find sheep scat, and dog poop in the area }
KS: Nature 15 Highlight to display spoiler: { You find fibrous material in the poop/scat } KS: Nature 20 Highlight to display spoiler: { It's Spirit Woad in the poop/scat & the sheep's wool is fairly intact and clean and could be sheared to be sold }
Survival DC 20 Highlight to display spoiler: { The Dire creature's tracks cross the road at random locations but are generally from further down the road to the west }
Aiding Another: DC 10, adds +2 to skill checks
Drotar Zaviyar (Robert S) AC 14/12/12 CMD 16 HP 5/14 d20+4=7 ; d20+4=20 ; Friday November 26th, 2021 9:38:03 PM
Drotar coughs as he sits up, leaning against a tree as he gratefully accepts the healing.
"Never had much need for scrolls or portions, or the coin to buy them. Then again, never fought whatever those were before..."
From his vantage point he looks out across the battlefield, and notices the tracks left in the mud by the animals. Pointing, he says
"The creatures' tracks cross the road randomly, mostly from further down the road to the west. If I had to guess where they came from..."
(Perception roll 7, Survival roll 20. Also what came of those failed saves earlier? Other than shaken I don't think anything happened.)
Tae-Che (Jim) HP 9/9 AC 12/12/10 CMD 13 d20+2=19 ; d20+2=11 ; Friday November 26th, 2021 9:41:10 PM
Tae Che easily spots some excrement from the sheep and dog as she takes a look around. "Hey, do you think there might be stuff in there?" She states while pointing at the mounds. [Perception: 19/Survival:11]
Gore'Thum and Teddy Treeborn (Mitch) HP 12/12 AC 12/11/12 CMD 11 Gore'Thum HP 10/16 AC 12/12/11 d8=4 ; Friday November 26th, 2021 9:46:54 PM
Teddy tops off Drotar (heals him 6 hp)
Einar (StevenVdB) - HP27/27 - AC18/13/15 - CMD 18 d20+6=25 ; d20+5=22 ; d20+5=24 ; Saturday November 27th, 2021 4:04:02 AM
(Know nature 25 / Survival 22 / Perception 24)
Einar isn't too keen to poke around the sheep scat but if it helps them figuring out what's going on here he does what must be done... he takes a branch from the ground somewhere and well... you get the picture.
"That's strange... there's seems to be some fibrous material in the poop... It must be Spirit Woad If we have time the wool is fairly intact and clean and could be sheared to be sold."
Einar nods in agreement with Drotar as he shows the direction he things the frenzied animals came from... "[/b]
Snark Riverstone (MarkB) AC13 T13 F10, CMD 11, HP 15/15 d20+6=14 ; d20+7=14 ; d20+3=8 ; Saturday November 27th, 2021 4:14:09 AM
(Perception 14, Knowledge Nature 14, Survival 8.)
Snark looks at the poop since Tae Che asks if there might be stuff in there. "Stuff like what, like the last guy that was here? I ain't touchin' it. Maybe if you have an Unseen Servant or Mage Hand you could check it out without getting poop all over us. Yech."
Then he walks over to the tracks that Drotar is pointing out. "Good eye there Drotar. Maybe we should see where they came from."
Snark will cast Detect Magic, checking the poop and the dead animals.
“Benni” AC 18/11/17 CMD12 HP 13/13 Onesimos (SteveK) Saturday November 27th, 2021 12:58:59 PM
Onisimos is glad he Teddy can heal, too. But the elf persists in flogging his memory. ”They must be Waldo’s dog and sheep. Remember the talk in Heranmar? When Waldo went missing, some boy tried to collect the sheep, but the dog herded them away. And some Waldo visitations have included the smell of wet wool. I think we need to have Waldo’s Scarf ready.”
As to shearing the dead sheep, Benni doesn’t have any shears, but if no one else does anything, the elf pulls his StarKnife and shears the sheep as best he can.
Isaac Harker (Justin M) HP 24/24 AC18/ T12 / FF 16 d20+2=8 ; Saturday November 27th, 2021 5:58:20 PM
Isaac shakes his head "Teddy" he calls out "I'm just a city guard so I don't have extensive experience with animals but that-" He points at the sheep that bit Drotar "-is not normal. Do you have any Idea what would cause that?"
Perception:8
DM JonS: Mid-day After Combat Sunday November 28th, 2021 2:25:03 PM
In the aftermath of the battle, Drotar is fully healthy again. It has been ascertained that the dog and sheep were Waldo's missing animals. It has also been pointed out that all four of the creatures have eaten Spirit Woad.
Results of Detect Magic: Highlight to display spoiler: { The bell and the collar have been enchanted to be weatherproof (both), and to not rust (the bell). The tone is sweet and can be heard for some distance }
The direction the sheep came from and have been traveling on appears to be a game trail, it does look 'cleaner' than the main path (less underbrush as is has been trampled down or eaten).
Some of the sense of dread has lifted with the sheep and dog dying. However, as you begin picking yourselves up and investigating the rain begins to pick up. It isn't hard enough to immediately soak through your clothes, but it does add to their dampness and the idea that you'll never be dry. With the rain, and the damp, you also begin to notice the mugginess of the swamp as well, which adds to the general sense of unease this place exudes.
Finding a place to rest is easy. Finding a place that is dry is impossible as everywhere is a soggy mess. Any attempts to light a fire, well, see spoiler below:
Survival DC 20 Highlight to display spoiler: { You are able to start a fire with locally available material, however, it's more smokey than firey, and provides little warmth, but is pleasant to watch }
Snark Riverstone (MarkB) AC13 T13 F10, CMD 11, HP 15/15 d20+3=17 ; Sunday November 28th, 2021 7:59:28 PM
While Benni, and perhaps others, work on the sheep shearing, Snark moves over to take off the two bell collars. "There seems to be a mild enchantment on this collar to preserve both the bell and the collar in this forsaken place. I can see why they only come here when they have to."
"This wet is a bit depressing. Lemme what I can do at least do to get us all dry."
Snark will take a few minutes to cast Prestidigitation a few times to get everyone dry. He also makes sure to cast it on the sheep's wool to make sure it's clean, dry and not stinky before we store it away.
Later as we prepare to camp, Snark will use Prestidigitation to dry and warm the firewood to get a better fire going. He's not strong on Survival, so he will attempt to aid others as they work on getting a fire going (add +2 to their check).
The little gnome is glad to have his waterproof tarp and his winter blanket for sleeping.
Snark Riverstone (MarkB) AC13 T13 F10, CMD 11, HP 15/15 Sunday November 28th, 2021 8:02:46 PM
Actually, if it's necessary, any of us can Take 20 and get a fire going.
Gore'Thum and Teddy Treeborn (Mitch) HP 12/12 AC 12/11/12 CMD 11 Gore'Thum HP 10/16 AC 12/12/11 Sunday November 28th, 2021 11:05:57 PM
Teddy looks distressed. "Did the wood corrupt them?" he wonders, a thought that hits a bit to close to home. Gore'Thum is silent, having no more information then the bear, but stays close to provide what comfort he can.
Einar (StevenVdB) - HP27/27 - AC18/13/15 - CMD 18 d20+5=21 ; d20=6 ; Monday November 29th, 2021 8:46:22 AM
(Survival 21)
Einar is able to get some smokey fire going. It only provides a little bit of warmth but it's pleasant to watch.
"Let's just hope it's wise to light a fire here... I don't want any more animals in a frenzy rushing into us."
When evening falls Einar cleans and sharpens his blade as if it were a meditation. He's so enthralled by the reflection of the fire in his blade that he sees or hears little else. (perception 6)
“Benni” AC 18/11/17 CMD12 HP 13/13 Onesimos (SteveK) Monday November 29th, 2021 1:12:12 PM
Onesimos shakes his head, water droplets spattering from his bedraggled locks. ”No, Teddy, not corrupted, I think, but poisoned and crazy. I didn’t check to see if there was undead spirits possessing the animals through the Spirit Woad, but I don’t think that is likely.”
The elf does his shearing as best he can, and accepts the momentary dryness from Snark to pull his cloak closer about him. The main path or the trail? He waits for one of his new friends who have been here longer than he to make a decision.
DM JonS: Moving towards Evening Monday November 29th, 2021 4:13:44 PM OOC: I can't seem to find a watch order in cases where you make camp, is there one, and are you guys setting a watch?
Snark Riverstone (MarkB) AC13 T13 F10, CMD 11, HP 15/15 Monday November 29th, 2021 6:37:40 PM
How about this for a watch order:
Snark (low light vision) Isaac Benni (low light vision) Kristoph and Bluesinda (darkvision, does not sleep) Drotar (darkvision) Einar Teddy (low light vision) and Gore Thum(low light vision, scent) Tae Che (darkvision)
Note that the fire elemental Blusinda can remain awake all night and has darkvision. Whomever is on watch will have both of the "sheep bells" to shake in case there is trouble. If you wake Snark, Teddy or Tae Che first, we all have the ability to create a magical light.
Also it occurs to me that Blusinda remains "on fire" all night, so she would help make that fire more warm for all of us.
Tae-Che (Jim) HP 9/9 AC 12/12/10 CMD 13 d20+7=13 ; d20+2=16 ; Monday November 29th, 2021 9:19:12 PM
Tae Che follows along with the others until they make camp. She's wet, tired, and all around miserable in the swamp, but is happy to have the company of the others. She readily accepts her position within the watch order and assists in gathering wood for the "fire".
During her watch, she takes out her tools for jewelry and slowly works on a new piece, not getting anywhere near enough to completion as her attention is back and forth from watching for anything out of the ordinary. [Craft: Jewelry: 13; Perception: 16]
Drotar Zaviyar (Robert S) AC 14/12/12 CMD 16 HP 14 Monday November 29th, 2021 10:31:14 PM
Drotar agrees to the watch order, and seeing that the fire is going, decides to walk the perimeter of the camp one last time to check for hazards before turning in for the night. Assuming all is well, he leans his gear against a tree and dozes off with a dagger in hand, just in case.
Kristoph: (Stephen C) | AC:17 | CMD:21 | HP: 19/19 - Blusinda: AC:12 | HP:16/16 d20+7=10 ; d20+3=20 ; Tuesday November 30th, 2021 3:40:39 AM
Kristoph manages to get a fire going (survival 20) and builds a safe shelter over it to protect Blusinda. She will watch with everyone - offering heat and blue light.
The elemental only understands ignan (currently) so Kristoph explains her duties: "flash brightly a few times of you see anything" , "wake me if you want to say something complex"...
Then he tries to sleep amidst strange sounds and rain.
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 November 30th, 2021 8:00:46 AM
Teddy is well used to taking watch while Gore'Thum sleeps and readily agrees to it. Gore'Thum harrumphs but agrees. He's more used to just carrying Teddy and keeping moving, but that isn't really an option with the larger team.
DM JamesM: Mid-day Repose and Day 2Map d10=2 ; d10=9 ; d10=4 ; d10=2 ; d10=9 ; d10=4 ; d20+3=6 ; Tuesday November 30th, 2021 8:40:58 AM
The group had wisely decided to end their journey at midday on day one. Once settled in they found the sheep trail along the side of the road and it did look like a game trail that frequently crossed the road as terrain to either side was too dense or wet to easily traverse.
As for the wool, those sheep were large and would easily bring in ten gold each with their wool. A normal sheep may have earned the shepherd five silver. This wool would also be suitable for crafting a masterwork item. (+5 on craft checks).
As the afternoon lapsed and the heroes prepared for the night they did manage to find the single most dry spot about a hundred years to the south of the road on a small rise with a few dense trees overhead. The waterproof tarp laid out upon the ground and draped overhead provided a much needed respite from the rain as Blucinda curled up inside a ring of stones and fed on damp wood. Soon the fire was hot enough that even the wet material they placed upon it was blazing after only a few moments.
Gore'Thrum and Drotar while healed of their injuries they itched and it didn't seem to fade with scratching. Neither could find a comfortable position as the areas of injury ached. Perhaps it was just the cold working its way through them because by morning the stiffness was gone though the itching persisted.
It was a short trip the next morning, but no less a wet one. About midafternoon they came upon the burned out tree stump the Woad hunter Trevvor told them about.
Survival DC 15 to find the secret trail.
Perception DC 16 Highlight to display spoiler: {Something is following you.} Perception DC 21 Highlight to display spoiler: {It's the last of the sheep and it appears to be trying to work up the courage to eat you.}
XP: 4900 to split among you.
Drotar Zaviyar (Robert S) AC 14/12/12 CMD 16 HP 14 d20+4=12 ; d20+4=5 ; Tuesday November 30th, 2021 9:36:37 AM
Drotar keeps scratching at the faded marks left by the healed wound, distracted from the current proceedings.
"Blasted mosquitos." he mutters
(Survival 12, Perception 5)
Kristoph: (Stephen C) | AC:17 | CMD:21 | HP: 19/19 - Blusinda: AC:12 | HP:16/16 d20+3=10 ; d20+7=27 ; Tuesday November 30th, 2021 12:06:24 PM
Kristoph doesn't spot the track but he does keeps looking back as the party travels ... After a while he says quietly:
"We're being followed I think it's the last of the sheep and it appears to be trying to work up the courage to attack us. Shall we just lay down and pretend to rest? I'd rather deal with it in our terms".
(Survival 10, Perception 27)
Einar (StevenVdB) - HP27/27 - AC18/13/15 - CMD 18 d20+5=7 ; d20+5=23 ; d20-1=19 ; Tuesday November 30th, 2021 1:55:30 PM
Survival 7 - fail to find the trail Perception 23 - success
Einar nods in agreement with Kristoph. That crazy sheep is still following... "Yes I want it dealt with...
"What do we have for bait? Some small animal... or... ", the Barbarian grins at Snark (Bluff 19 (nat 20) vs Sense motive).
Snark is able to find the secret trail. He'll mark it with some rocks or sticks.
Then Kristoph suggests a plan. "Good thinking there fire guy. Let's all sit down and keep our eyes out, and maybe we can lure that thing in. I'll ready an action to cast Grease under the thing in case it decides to charge in. That'll probably save us from a hit or two."
"Say, while we're on this little trip, I'd like to learn to speak Ignan in you'll help me with that."
Snark will periodically cast Resistance on himself of Kristoph as we go/wait. (+1 Resistance Bonus to one save, lasts 1 minute.)
The little gnome will keep a sharp eye out for sheepzilla while we wait. (Perception 13 watching for an incoming critter.)
(Was looking over my sheet and realized that I have space for another language.)
His eyes narrow as he looks at Einar. "That's not funny. You better watch it there pal. I can make you big, but I can also make you small."
Isaac Harker (Justin M) HP 24/24 AC18/ T12 / FF 16 d20+2=13 ; d20=1 ; Tuesday November 30th, 2021 2:40:49 PM
Isaac looks around the stump "Isn't this where Trevor said he lost his bow?"
Perception:13 Survival: 1 :(
DM JonS: Oopsie Moment Tuesday November 30th, 2021 3:04:35 PM There's only one collar & bell, they were on the dog - sorry, I just reread what I said
“Benni” AC 18/11/17 CMD12 HP 13/13 Onesimos (SteveK) Tuesday November 30th, 2021 3:23:04 PM
4900 8 = 612xp for each PC …..
Onesimos is happy the team knows how to camp out: the cleric is a city elf and has next to no wilderness skills. The pretending to sleep sounds like a good plan, but…. ”We could also have someone move away from camp to be bait. I’ll volunteer.”
The elf will wait til folks are pretnding to settle, and then walks out from camp as if to make water. He keeps ready to cast Sanctuary on himself if the sheep shows itself.
….. Ready Action. If sheep attacks, cast Sanctuary on himself. Will DC 14 or lose action and can’t attack Benni.
Tae-Che (Jim) HP 9/9 AC 12/12/10 CMD 13 d20+2=11 ; d20+2=14 ; Tuesday November 30th, 2021 5:49:20 PM
Tae Che keeps to herself the next day, oblivious to most everything but where the group was heading. When Kristoph mentions something about being followed, she mumbles to herself, though loud enough to hear, [B]"I wonder if the sheep and dog were looking for me, as I did see Waldo at the same time as the woman..."
She sits down and waits with the others as Benni heads out as 'bait'. [Survival: 11/Perception: 14]
Kristoph: (Stephen C) | AC:17 | CMD:21 | HP: 19/19 - Blusinda: AC:12 | HP:16/16 Wednesday December 1st, 2021 7:33:54 AM
Kristoph winces at the clerics plan. "I admire your bravery but I don't see the need to put yourself at such risk. I believe the sheep is likely to attack us all if we pretend to set up camp and rest. I am concerned that if you leave the group and the beast gets lucky it may kill you before we can assist. Would you consider rethinking your plan"?
Kristoph's concern is honest after all 'the best paid plans...' and being a cleric he understands how Sanctuary can go wrong. However, he won't push the subject and if the other cleric insists he will ensure he appears to rest nearest the direction Benni exits the faux-campsite, ready to spring to his aid.
DM JamesM: Day 2 - Sheep Bait (Map) d20+2=11 Wednesday December 1st, 2021 8:14:13 AM
Drotar scratches Kristoph watches a sheep Einar nods and offers up Snark as an appetizer Snark closes his eyes, but opens them long enough to threaten Einar and Isaac looks at a stump.
Meanwhile Bennie moisturizes and offers himself up to the sheep. It isn't too long and the slavering bloody crazed beast sights the elf and charges. Bennie gets a good look at it as it turns around a tree forty feet away....and runs right past him.
DM: Bennie can get an AoO as the sheep passes but it'll cancel his spell.
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 1st, 2021 8:40:34 AM
Teddy shakes his head and tells Bennie his plan is stupid.
“Benni” AC 18/11/17 CMD12 HP 13/13 Onesimos (SteveK) Wednesday December 1st, 2021 10:09:01 AM
Onesimos carries out his plan and is not surprised to see the Sheep attack. He is, however, unprepared for the sheep to even try attacking him! The elf dodges around the other side of the tree and hustles to where he is in-between the Sheep and Teddy’s big frog. ”As long as my magic holds, I am as a living shield to protect our band. Now it’s time to put the poor beast down.”
… Double move (standard and move action) to AL 20 Sanctuary, round 2. Will DC 14 or can’t attack Benni
Snark Riverstone (MarkB) AC13 T13 F10, CMD 11, HP 15/15 d20+4=8 ; Wednesday December 1st, 2021 11:31:20 AM
Snark says, "Give Benni's plan a chance - hold off for a round, except for missile fire. Chances are pretty good that sheepzilla there will waste his attack because of Benni's spell. So don't charge up on the thing just yet.
"Now there is a small chance that Benni will just get trampled and gored. But let's see how this goes."
With that, the little gnome will move up 5' and unleash a blob acid. It goes wide. (hits AC 8)
Einar (StevenVdB) - HP27/27 - AC18/13/15 - CMD 18 Wednesday December 1st, 2021 5:49:19 PM
Earlier Einar was joking when he was offering Snark as bait. Now seeing "Benni" actually trying to bait the sheep, Einar no longer laughs... this is dangerous...
So instead he draws his steel and waits.
Isaac Harker (Justin M) HP 24/24 AC18/ T12 / FF 16 Wednesday December 1st, 2021 7:16:10 PM
Isaac draws his sword as the beast approaches he got the feeling it was going for whoever had that scarf. "Who has that scarf?" He asked looking from his companions to the wild sheep.
(Didn't notice the map from the last post other wise Isaac would have been over by the stump. He came back to the group after he couldn't find the bow."
Tae-Che (Jim) HP 9/9 AC 12/12/10 CMD 13 Wednesday December 1st, 2021 9:23:34 PM
Tae Che sees the sheep as it runs past Benni and brandishes her longspear in that direction, awaiting the monster to come at her.
Drotar Zaviyar (Robert S) AC 14/12/12 CMD 16 HP 14 d20+1=21 ; d20+1=6 ; d20+1=6 ; d4+2=4 ; Wednesday December 1st, 2021 10:01:03 PM "I'm not going to get killed by some overgrown side of mutton."
Drotar grumbles as he pulls out a pair of hand crossbows, letting bolts fly, the first strikes true but the second careens off into the treeline.
(First hit, 21, crit not confirmed, 4 damage, second hit, miss)
Kristoph: (Stephen C) | AC:17 | CMD:21 | HP: 19/19 - Blusinda: AC:12 | HP:16/16 d20+2=15 ; d6=3 ; Thursday December 2nd, 2021 4:30:59 AM
Kristoph hurls a firebolt at the sheep.
(Attack: 15, damage 3)
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+4=21 ; d6=3 ; Thursday December 2nd, 2021 7:55:33 AM
Gore'Thum advances to attack the sheep and hits it for 5 damage. Teddy used all his spells for healing and can't do much more then dance about anxiously.
DM JamesM: Day 2 - Secret Paths (Map) Thursday December 2nd, 2021 8:44:44 AM
There was a flurry of movement as the sheep charged the group. Naturally it ignored Benni as it ran wide to attack Tae. Drotar however was having none of it and fired his crossbow at the creature. Though one of the bolts did go wide, the second struck true and put the beast down for good. That saved the others their spells and ammunition.
Perception DC 15 or Heal DC 11 Highlight to display spoiler: {The sheep had taken quite a bit of damage in the earlier fight. Only it's rage must have kept it on it's feet.}
Heal DC 20 Highlight to display spoiler: {This sheep, like the others and the dog appeared to be diseased.}
The Stump - Perception DC 25 or Survival DC 20 Highlight to display spoiler: {After some searching you find a small game trail inside the dense undergrowth to the north of the road. It's almost like a tunnel in the brambles there and would have been impossible to find if you didn't know exactly where to look. It looks like the sheep found it as well since you can see their tracks on the ground along it.}
"Yech, this thing's a mess. I was already pretty beat up from when it ran away, and it shows. Stinks too. Good shot Drotar."
"Hey Benni, nice work with the spell. Shall we get this one sheared too?"
Snark will help Benni with the sheep, and will use Prestidigitation to get the wool - and us - clean and dry.
DM JamesM: Day 2 - Secret Paths (Map) Thursday December 2nd, 2021 12:35:57 PM
DM: If multiple checks are required (Heal, Perception, etc..) Roll once against that skill and apply it to all the checks on that post. So, Snarks Heal check of 18 applies to both.
“Benni” AC 18/11/17 CMD12 HP 13/13 Onesimos (SteveK) d20+7=13 ; d20+5=20 ; Thursday December 2nd, 2021 1:25:58 PM
Onesimos nods and grins at the compliment, and helps Snark shear this sheep too. ”Not what I planned, but it worked well enough. Well, we are at the stump, and there is a trail. We should go that way?”
Oh, and Benni reminds Issac that he is the one that has Waldo’s Scarf, since it was given the hero of the drinking contest.
Benni follows right behind the melee fighters to be best placed for defensive support if needed.
Heal. 13 Perception 20
Tae-Che (Jim) HP 9/9 AC 12/12/10 CMD 13 d20+2=7 ; d20+2=16 ; d20+2=13 ; Thursday December 2nd, 2021 11:42:59 PM
Tae Che is relieved that the sheep is dead. "Nice shooting, Drotar." She looks around to see if there is anything else of import but isn't very helpful with any of the things others are working on.
[Perception: 7; Heal:16; Survival: 13]
Isaac Harker (Justin M) HP 24/24 AC18/ T12 / FF 16 d20+2=22 ; d20=2 ; d20+4=22 ; Friday December 3rd, 2021 4:35:48 AM
Isaac puts his sword back "Benni could the sheep have been following the scent of the scarf?" Isaac takes a look around the stump again. Taking a look at the sheep Isaac comes to the conclusion that the animal was diseased. "Drotar something is wrong with these animals have you felt any thing after the attack? They bit you pretty badly and I'm worried that you might have caught something." Perception:22 :) Survival: 2 Heal: 22
Kristoph: (Stephen C) | AC:17 | CMD:21 | HP: 19/19 - Blusinda: AC:12 | HP:16/16 d20+3=4 ; d20+7=24 ; d20+10=22 ; Friday December 3rd, 2021 5:44:42 AM "Happy to teach you Ignan Snark, although truth told, I'm not honestly sure how I know it"?! (in fact we could have been practicing each evening).
Kristoph examines the sheep (without touching it): "I agree with Isaac, definitely diseased. I can't help but feel sorry for the poor creature. It looks like it had taken lots of damage in the earlier fight and only it's rage was had keeping it up. Perhaps the disease made it act this way"?
He examines anyone bitten for any signs of disease and/or helps clean wounds.
Despite knowing where to look (and searching quite thoroughly) Kristoph is unable to locate the game trail and compliments the cleric. "Good spot Benni, that was well hidden indeed"!
(Survival:4, Perception:24, Healing: 22)
(OOC the scarf was found up the tree earlier, the drinking game was something else).
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 3rd, 2021 8:00:51 AM
Teddy follows along keeping his eyes out for the next horrible surprise that will no doubt spring from the underbrush.
Einar (StevenVdB) - HP27/27 - AC18/13/15 - CMD 18 d20+5=20 ; d20=6 ; d20+5=21 ; Friday December 3rd, 2021 8:26:04 AM
(perception 20 / heal 6 / survival 21) (Einar was able to grab that scarf earlier from the tree. It was offered to I don't know who anymore and given back - so I would assume Einar still has it)
Einar too notices the trail inside the dense undergrowth. "Question is what's on the other end of this trail? Going in head first leaves will room to maneuver let along fight when another of those frenzied sheep comes along."
“Benni” AC 18/11/17 CMD12 HP 13/13 Onesimos (SteveK) d20+5=16 d20+5=13 Friday December 3rd, 2021 12:40:11 PM
Onesimos reminds Issac that Reshakka, the old Liontaur from the Sea Temple, gave Issac the scarf, because Issac was the drinking contest winner, and Issac accepted it.
As for the trail, the elf tries to reassure Einar. ”These were Waldo’s sheep and dog; there are unlikely to be more. Also, if they are diseased, it was probably from the Spirit Woad plant droppings the survivalist experts found earlier, so unlikely to affect Drotar. And if they ate Spirit Woad, that’s probably where we will find the Spirit Woad hunters. Let’s go.”
Benni will be third in line, after two melee warriors. He tries to keep his eyes peeled. ……
Perception. 16
Ooc: Issac’s post on 27 Oct: “ Issaac will take the scarf that belonged to Waldo "I trust your judgment on this. I'll talk to to Filler soon and see if we can't get to the bottom of this strange haunting.”
Into the Spirit Swamp
Swampy Goodness
DM JamesM: Day 2 - Midafternoon 1:00 PM (Map) d10=3 ; Friday December 3rd, 2021 1:04:56 PM
Rain continued to be the order of the day as they ducked into to the tunnel like path through the brambles. Single file they moved through the underbrush until a tenth of mile north the trail opened up as it wound it's way north through a stand of cypress trees. To either side of the trail the ground turned decidedly marshy and appeared difficult to walk through.
When they could see the sky once more they also saw a stone monument off to the right side of the trail where it split into two paths. If it had any markings upon it none were visible. A few feet from the monument lay the hunter's bow. It would need a new string and a good polishing, but was otherwise in ok shape.
Survival DC 10 Highlight to display spoiler: {Straying from the trail would almost certainly get you stuck. At best you'd likely lose a shoe or boot. At worst the soft ground would pull you under.}
Survival DC 15 Highlight to display spoiler: {You spot a boot print near the edge of the rightmost branch of the trail and another a few feet along. The tracks are almost demolished by the rain, but these two were especially deep in the soft ground. }
The heroes had a decision to make, take the left or right path.
Heal DC 15 Highlight to display spoiler: {It looks like Gore Thrum and Drotar have each contracted the disease, but you are certain it's in the very early stages and they have some time before their condition becomes critical. }
Acrobatics DC 15 to recover the bow.
DM: Please update your position on the map. Places will be official with next DM post.
Drotar Zaviyar (Robert S) AC 14/12/12 CMD 16 HP 14 d20+4=14 ; Friday December 3rd, 2021 6:58:02 PM "Not sure. I don't feel that off, just a little itchy. I don't know much about diseases and that sort of thing."
Drotar shrugs off the unpleasant conversation, looking at the bow sitting in the muck.
"I can get it. But I want to be sure I'll be able to get out, that looks nasty. Hold on to the other end of this and haul me out if I get stuck."
He ties a rope around his waist, before tossing it to whichever member of the party looks strongest, then cautiously steps out to get the bow.
(Survival 14, taking 10 on the acrobatics check for a 16 total)
Assuming Einar holds the other end of the rope, the gnome moves up to the barbarian in case things go wrong.
Once up there, Snark sees a bit more. "Oof, you were smart to tie a line to yourself Drotar. That muck looks like that ground could suck you in. And look there! I can see where there are some old boot prints. I wonder of somebody got sucked in."
Snark looks at an exposed area of Drotar's skin as he tying on the rope. "Hey Drotar, you got the early stages of something going on there. Prolly from them diseased sheep. It's not bad yet, but if we don't get you fixed up soon, her gonna be sicker than the dickens."
Snark casts Detect Magic, wondering if the boot prints may mean something may have sunk beneath the surface of the swampy area.
Tae-Che (Jim) HP 9/9 AC 12/12/10 CMD 13 d20+2=4 ; d20+2=22 ; Friday December 3rd, 2021 8:59:19 PM
Tae Che takes up the last position in the order as they head into the brambles of the hidden trail. Once they find themselves near to the monument, she notices that Drotar and Gore'Thrum's wounds from the sheep attacks appear to be getting slightly reddish. "I concur with Snark, Drotar. It looks like you might be coming down with something. You too, Gore'Thrum."
She sees Drotar heading into the muck to fetch the bow and smirks as she knows she wouldn't even try what he's doing. (Survival: 4; Heal: 22)
Isaac Harker (Justin M) HP 24/24 AC18/ T12 / FF 16 d20+4=11 ; d20=5 ; Friday December 3rd, 2021 10:15:13 PM
Isaac decides to keep an eye on Drotar making sure he doesn't have any symptoms.(moves from AS15 to AW15) Isaac feels embarrassed that he spent so long looking around the stump when the bow was by the statue. Isaac will help with pulling Drotar outif he gets stuck.
Heal 11 Survival 5 (Ooc: I had forgotten I had the scarf)
“Benni” AC 18/11/17 CMD12 HP 13/13 Onesimos (SteveK) d20+7=22 ; Saturday December 4th, 2021 5:56:27 AM
Onesimos agrees with Snark and Tae-Che, ”Gnomes must have as good of eye as the elves. You are right and I was wrong. Drotar, I want to start you on a disease treatment that may stave off symptoms for longer. I regret I am not high enough in Flower’s favor to magically remove it entirely. Teddy, with your permission, I can do the same for your frog.”
Benni begins to treat the disease in Drotar and Gore-Thunn.
….. Heal DC22. Treat Disease. Every time the diseased character makes a saving throw against disease effects, you make a Heal check. If your Heal check exceeds the DC of the disease, the character receives a +4 competence bonus on his saving throw against the disease.
Ooc: no worries, Justin! The Scarf seems significant to remember.
Ooc: took the liberty of moving Drotar and Issac on the map where they said they were. Then moved Benni, and moved Everyone else to close the gaps. Please feel free to alter your Pc position if I was mistaken.
DM JamesM: Day 2 - Midafternoon 1:00 PM (Map) Saturday December 4th, 2021 3:22:04 PM
DM James: The treatment will take 5 weeks and since the DC of the Disease is 14 you guys get another save at +4. We can roll that now and hand wave the rest of you make it.
Einar (StevenVdB) - HP27/27 - AC18/13/15 - CMD 18 d20+5=25 ; Monday December 6th, 2021 3:28:33 AM
(Survival 25)
Seeing the trail is becoming more dangerous as they go Einar indeed gets out the ropes he brought. The rope Drotar uses has a good knot at both ends for extra grip if needed. Should Drotar slip or get stuck in the muck, Einar will start pulling him onto the trail again. (Strength 15)
Kristoph: (Stephen C) | AC:17 | CMD:21 | HP: 19/19 - Blusinda: AC:12 | HP:16/16 Monday December 6th, 2021 6:40:11 AM
Whenever the Heal check is made Kristoph will throw in a Resistance giving +1 to the saves for everyone affected.
"Can the bow not be reached with a mage hand"?
DM JamesM: Day 2 - Midafternoon 1:00 PM (Map) Monday December 6th, 2021 2:24:42 PM
Kristoph asks if a mage hand can retrieve the bow while it’s determined that the two ill members of the party have contracted rabies. It has a long incubation time however and it’s unlikely to manifest itself while they are on this quest. Drotar is nimble and perceptive enough to step out for the bow and return safely with it.
They still have to decide which branch to take on the path.
Snark Riverstone (MarkB) AC13 T13 F10, CMD 11, HP 15/15 Monday December 6th, 2021 4:13:37 PM
I assume that Snark's detect magic revealed nothing, including the bow.
DM James: Nothing other than what the party carry.
Snark already pointed out the vestige of bootprints along the right most path.
"Good job Drotar! That guy'll probably be glad to get his bow back. And it'll probably score some points with the townfolk.
"Let's take the rightmost path. See those bootprints?"
“Benni” AC 18/11/17 CMD12 HP 13/13 Onesimos (SteveK) Monday December 6th, 2021 4:32:12 PM
Onesimos applauds Drotar and his feat of retrieving the bow.
Benni tucks some brown hair behind an ear and agrees with Snark. Boot prints are a sure sign.
Isaac Harker (Justin M) HP 24/24 AC18/ T12 / FF 16 Monday December 6th, 2021 5:39:05 PM
Isaac agrees with Snark "Since his bow was over on the right side I'm guessing right as well"
Einar (StevenVdB) - HP27/27 - AC18/13/15 - CMD 18 Monday December 6th, 2021 5:56:15 PM
Einar nods and closely follows the scouts. He has his blade in sheathed for now and holds the rope in case anyone accidentally steps into the swamp.
Tae-Che (Jim) HP 9/9 AC 12/12/10 CMD 13 Monday December 6th, 2021 9:28:20 PM
Tae Che is trying to remember what was said about the paths. "Hey, didn't they say something about which path to take when we see the statue, or something."
“Benni” AC 18/11/17 CMD12 HP 13/13 Onesimos (SteveK) Tuesday December 7th, 2021 12:11:13 AM
Onesimos nods with the memory of the dark elf. ”Kristoph, I remember Trevor telling us that the path diverges many times but always take the north one until we get to the cemetery. So… which one is north?”, concludes the city-bred Benni.
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+7=27 ; Tuesday December 7th, 2021 1:11:44 AM
Teddy is able to easily determine where north is and tells the party (27 survival, though apparently that doesn't even require a check)
DM JamesM: Day 2 - Midafternoon 2:00 PM (Map) d10=9 ; d10=2 ; Tuesday December 7th, 2021 8:45:11 AM
It was midday, albeit a wintry cold midday, but the light from the sun was more dim than normal due to the dense cloud cover overhead. It had also started to rain again as they made their way generally north into the spirit swamp. for the next hour they moved along the driest parts of the trail they could find until they once more came to a decision point in their journey.
The decision was going to be hard however because whatever had been working at their resolve had gotten stronger as they progressed into the swamp.
Will Save DC 15 - Fail Highlight to display spoiler: {There is something about this swamp that is affecting you. A sense of dread you can't ignore. You are Shaken. A shaken character takes a –2 penalty on attack rolls, saving throws, skill checks, and ability checks. Shaken is a less severe state of fear than frightened or panicked. Duration 15 minutes minus Save Roll.}
This time the path diverged into three different choices of direction, two of which looked like they were parallel for as far as the heroes could see before the grasses and rain obscured their vision. The last one looked like it ran along a section of water that was rippling in the strong wind that was whipping through the swamp. Far far in the distance you thought you saw a pirate ship's outline against the horizon. You blinked and it was gone, hidden by waving grasses and dark clouds that hovered just above the ground.
Perception DC 15 Highlight to display spoiler: {You can see a piece of clothing floating in the water near the leftmost path.}
Perception DC 20 Highlight to display spoiler: {It's a hat of the type worn by the townsfolk.}
Teddy Highlight to display spoiler: {All the paths lead north, but Teddy can see evidence of people moving along the leftmost path.}
Kristoph: (Stephen C) | AC:17 | CMD:21 | HP: 19/19 - Blusinda: AC:12 | HP:16/16 d20+7=10 ; d20+7=16 ; Tuesday December 7th, 2021 10:54:48 AM "You have a good memory Benni. I believe you're right, he said the path diverges many times but if you stay to the northern routes you’ll eventually find an old set of standing stones. Myself, I have turned so many times I'm not sure which one is north"! Shrugging Kristoph pauses briefly - staring into the distance: "Wait did I just see..." then falls back into silence, shakes his head in disbelief and pulls his cloak tighter.
(Perception: all fail. will save: pass)
Snark Riverstone (MarkB) AC13 T13 F10, CMD 11, HP 15/15 d20+7=12 ; d20+6=13 ; Tuesday December 7th, 2021 11:01:04 AM
(Will save 12, so shaken for 3 minutes. Perception 13.)
Snark blinks in the cold, wet wind. He plods along with the others, grumbling as he goes.
"...stupid rotten weather this is no place for a gnome i dunno why this spirit woad stuff is so important to these folks they must be nuts to go out in stuff like this when they have a nice warm town and they still go out it makes no sense to me not even sure why we're out ugh this rain and mud seems pretty dumb to be out here chased by rabid sheep no wonder the animals go crazy out here can't believe im out here in this stuff i'ma lose a shoe out here they got things with claws and pirates and who knows what else is gonna try'n eat us next...
Maybe every 30 minutes or so, or however long it take the rain to soak through our clothing, he will have everyone stop so he can take a couple minute to use Prestidigitation to get everyone dry and clean - hopefully this improves the mood a bit (circumstance bonus to will saves?)
He also periodically casts Resistance on himself.
Einar (StevenVdB) - HP27/27 - AC18/13/15 - CMD 18 d20=12 ; d20+5=9 ; d20+5=13 ; d4=4 ; Tuesday December 7th, 2021 12:15:43 PM
(Will save 12 / Perception 9)
Like Snark, Einar to suffers... the swamp chills him to the bone. Or is could be the rain also...still Einar is shaken for 3 mins. The state he´s in makes him less perceptive to any details that could lead the group where they need to go. He just grips the rope even tighter.
Tae-Che (Jim) HP 9/9 AC 12/12/10 CMD 13 d20+5=7 ; d20+2=20 ; Tuesday December 7th, 2021 4:15:31 PM
Tae Che sullenly follows along with the others, the rain and wind and other swamp things getting her more and more depressed. She nods her head in ascent as Snark goes on his diatribe about the weather. She happens to look into the swamp at the right time and sees a scrap of clothing. "Hey all, I see a piece of clothing here in the swamp." She points out the piece of clothing near the left side pathway.
[Will Save: 7; Perception: 18 (including the Failed Will save)
Isaac Harker (Justin M) HP 24/24 AC18/ T12 / FF 16 d20+6=8 ; d20=1 ; Tuesday December 7th, 2021 11:19:19 PM
Isaac shakes not sure if it's the cold or something else " Can't wait to be out of here I feel like something's watching me in this swamp." he says out loud feeling like he needs to say anything just to break some of the silence. He perks up when he hears Tae-Che points out something "Where?" he looks over the area she's pointing at as best he can. Whatever it was he had completely missed it. Will Save:8 Shaken duration 7min Perception:1 :(
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+4=20 ; d20+1=16 ; d20=4 ; Wednesday December 8th, 2021 12:01:20 AM
Teddy explains that both paths lead generally north so they should follow the one with the foot prints which is the leftmost one. Surprisingly despite his general dour demeanor he holds up well against whatever will is pressuring the party. (will save 20 for Teddy, 16 for Gore'Thum). He looks at the others uncertainly, not used to being the only one not freaking out and it's starting to make him freak out.
“Benni” AC 18/11/17 CMD12 HP 13/13 Onesimos (SteveK) d20+8=14 ; d20+5=22 ; Wednesday December 8th, 2021 6:41:01 AM
Onesimos feels jumpy and he flinched as he looks this way and that. Maybe that’s why he can see the cloth Tae-Chi sees too. ”Its a hat, a hat like they wear in Heranmar! HELLO!!! WE ARE FROM HERANMAR TO RESCUE YOU!”. The elf doesn’t say it aloud, but his internal monologue matches Snark’s more verbal commentary. He wants to get the mission done and away.
….. Will. 14. Fail by 1. Shaken for 1 minute (10 rounds)
Shaken. 10/10 rounds. –2 attack, saves, skills, and abilitys.
DM JamesM: Day 2 - Afternoon 4:30 PM (Map) d10=2 ; d10=10 ; d10=6 ; d10=3 ; d20=4 ; d100=33 ; Wednesday December 8th, 2021 10:25:53 AM
And the leftmost path it was...
Kristoph reminded everyone that the directions were to keep to the northmost paths as they worked their way through the swamp, however in practice that wasn't as easy as it sounded. Snark grumbled, but his efforts to keep everyone dry were appreciated when the time came. Those brief moments of dryness and associated warmth was pleasing to anticipate, still there was an oppressive nature in the swamp that was dragging them down.
The sight of the hat floating in the water caused a chill in almost everyone as they considered their own fates in this cursed swamp. Only Teddy and Gore'thrum seemed unaffected by the bobbing headware to the left of the path. Tae was able to retrieve it with her mage hand and on examination found traces of blood on the brim. This was not a lucky hat...Benni called out to anyone that might hear, but his voice was swallowed by the mist and rain but there was no one there. Isaac however said he felt like someone was watching them.
Further down the trail they were at times forced to wade through ankle deep water to get to the path on the other side. Each time they did so they could hear the warning about reef claw from Trevvor resonating in their head, but no hidden attacks came. They also noticed that in places it looked like they were walking on bridges that had been swallowed by the swamp with only the planks of them showing through the mud. As they walked along Einar gripped the rope with a white knuckled death grasp. Swamps apparently weren't for him.
After several hours of walking in circles as the trail zigged and zagged through the swampy landscape they came to the waters edge. There was no sign of the boat Trevvor mentioned. One thing that was lucky was that they hadn't encountered any of the threats they had been told about, well not yet anyway. As they stood at the water's edge the sun dropped in the sky below the cloud cover to give them just a bit of warmth and light before night fall.
Perception DC 20 Highlight to display spoiler: { You see the boat capsized and sitting in the water a few feet to your east. It’s behind a section of swamp grasses that hide it from passersby, only it's shadow and reflection allowed you to find it and you'll have to wade into the water to retrieve it. You can see that the boat was capsized fifteen feet out in the water beyond the grasses and it looked like there was a pale hand gripping the side of the boat from atop it as if someone were laying behind it and holding on for their life. }
“Benni” AC 18/11/17 CMD12 HP 13/13 Onesimos (SteveK) d20+5=17 ; Wednesday December 8th, 2021 10:49:47 AM
Onesimos doesn’t like the swamp, and is coming to the conclusion he doesn’t like wilderness, bilutbatnleast he has control of his senses once more. Getting to the end of the path with no boat has him concerned. The elf peers through the murk.
”I can’t see anything of note. Can anyone see the boat? Or the cemetery? Or the standing stones?”
… Perception. 17. Fail Shaken. Ended from hours of walking.
Snark Riverstone (MarkB) AC13 T13 F10, CMD 11, HP 15/15 d20+6=25 ; Wednesday December 8th, 2021 1:28:37 PM
(Perception 25)
"...stupid swamp rotten weather gonna kill us these townsfolk don't...
"Hey! HEY! I see the boat - it's right there beyond that grass! It's upside-down. And it looks like somebody's hanging on to it! Somebody big wade out to it. Here, whoever's gonna wade out there, I'll make you bigger!"
Snark pulls out his wand and will cast Enlarge Person on one of the bigger folk that wade out to save the person clinging to the boat.
---------------------------- Enlarge Person - This increase changes the creature’s size category to the next larger one. The target gains a +2 size bonus to Strength, a -2 size penalty to Dexterity (to a minimum of 1), and a -1 penalty on attack rolls and AC due to its increased size. A humanoid creature whose size increases to Large has a space of 10 feet and a natural reach of 10 feet. This spell does not change the target’s speed. Equipment is similarly enlarged by the spell. Melee weapons deal more damage. Any enlarged item that leaves an enlarged creature’s possession instantly returns to its normal size.
Kristoph: (Stephen C) | AC:17 | CMD:21 | HP: 19/19 - Blusinda: AC:12 | HP:16/16 d20+7=25 ; Wednesday December 8th, 2021 6:37:00 PM
Kristoph spots the boat too and shrugs: Why not? I'll do it"!
Grateful for the moments of dryness courtesy of Snark - he realises it wasn't ever going to last. He passes his backpack to someone and prepares to wade out.
The sensation of growing is strange - he looks down at the party and at his large hands before turning.
"Someone lend me a rope and be ready to dispel this if you try to pull me back"! He leaves one end with the party.
(Perception:25). If the water is freezing he casts Rose's Temperature Control.
Tae-Che (Jim) HP 9/9 AC 12/12/10 CMD 13 d20+2=9 ; Wednesday December 8th, 2021 9:15:35 PM
Tae Che, feeling only slightly better after several hours of walking along and getting dry and kinda warm from the simple spells is unsurprised when the boat is found and she couldn't see it, even with her special darkvision. She readily takes Kristoph's backpack, holding it high enough it doesn't easily get soaked.
[Perception: 9]
Drotar Zaviyar (Robert S) AC 14/12/12 CMD 16 HP 14 Wednesday December 8th, 2021 10:15:06 PM
Drotar looks out at the boat when it's pointed out, and frowns.
"How long has that boat been there? Several days at least, right? How could anyone still be clinging to it? Keep an eye out, just in case. Maybe not all the rumors we've heard in town have been exaggerations."
Grabbing the rope tossed his way, he digs his feet into the ground and eyes the hand warily.
Isaac Harker (Justin M) HP 24/24 AC18/ T12 / FF 16 d20+2=21 ; Wednesday December 8th, 2021 11:21:09 PM
Isaac is starting to feel miserable with all the trudging through the swamp. He was a town guardsmen not a ranger or druid like Teddy he was feeling quite out of his element. Isaac looks over to where Snark points he feels that Snark is proving himself quite the lookout. "Kristoph be careful no telling what horrors are in this swamp. In fact one moment before you go out there..." Isaac activates his senses and looks over at the deathly pale hand trying to detect any evil influence that might linger in the area. Perception:21 (Would an undead, zombie or ghost register as evil?)
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 9th, 2021 8:16:25 AM
Teddy shuffles back and forth nervously as the rescue attempt is made wringing his hands in worry that some hidden monster in the water will attack or some other disaster occur.
DM JamesM: Day 2 - Afternoon 4:30 PM (Map) d10=1 d10=2 d4=3 d2=2 Thursday December 9th, 2021 11:37:46 AM
The mist diffused the light from the setting sun and made it difficult to see and Benni had trouble seeing more than a few feet into it as he asked if anyone saw the standing stones or cemetery. Snark from his position closer to the ground and incidentally in the exact spot to see through a low spot in the grass saw the boat to the northeast. Kristoph looked where snark was pointing and saw it too and offered to wade out into the water to retrieve it. Tae was feeling good and missed the boat, but it wasn't for a lack of ability since nothing anyone had would allow them to see through solid objects or this mist unless they happened upon a break in the ground cover or fog.
Drotar questioned whether anyone living might still be gripping the boat and suggested everyone stay alert. He gripped the rope and prepared to pull back Kristoph as he moved into the water. Meanwhile Isaac was alert to the possibility that undead might be in the area, so he reached out with his senses with the certainty that if that was an undead creature hanging onto the boat he'd know.
Isaac Highlight to display spoiler: { You detect nothing evil within 60' of your position.}
As soon as Kristoph entered the water he felt a numbing cold shoot through his feet and legs. He'd not be able to withstand that for long, so he cast his spell and the temperature in his body regulated itself to resist the effects of the water. At the same time he grew in size from Snarks spell so that he was only waist deep as he waded out to the boat.
Kristoph Highlight to display spoiler: {The person holding onto the boat is really just an arm. It looks to have been removed at the shoulder in some gruesome and painful manner. You can also see markings on the arm that might help in identifying who it belongs to. Perception DC 20 or It also seems he's stepped on something as pain shoots through his right foot(3 hp Damage) FORT Save DC 11 (lose 2 points CON). }
Kristoph could see a rope floating in the water that was tied off to the bow of the small boat. It would be easy enough to tow it back to shore.
Einar (StevenVdB) - HP27/27 - AC18/13/15 - CMD 18 Thursday December 9th, 2021 12:36:10 PM
Numbed by the swamp Einar just stares at his friends as hey are checking out the boat. He still clings on the ropes. Let's just hopes he snaps out of it should Kristoph get in trouble.
Tae-Che (Jim) HP 9/9 AC 12/12/10 CMD 13 Thursday December 9th, 2021 7:00:52 PM
Tae Che tries to bolster everyone's mood. "Good job, Kristoph, Einar, Snark, and everyone else! We've already done a whole lot! We've discovered the bow, and a boat that might help us locate the rest of the missing along with the Spirit Woad Heranmar is asking for. Let's all give our thanks so far."
Though she sounds upbeat, she doesn't think it came across so well...
Kristoph: (Stephen C) | AC:15 | CMD:20 | HP: 14/17 - ENLARGED/POISONED! - Blusinda: AC:12 | HP:16/16 d20+5=9 ; d20+7=15 ; d20+10=16 ; Thursday December 9th, 2021 9:43:58 PM
Kristoph wades out and disappears into the mist. The silence drags on till his voice - sounding slightly disgusted echoes eerily: "Great, yuk. Well it seems the arm's all that's left of the poor man. There's a tattoo, hopefully someone'll recognise it. I'm on my way back".
The slosh, slosh sound of him returning supersedes his reappearance. Mist swirls around the giant tugging a boat behind and carrying a severed arm. Suddenly he staggers slightly, pauses, winces and scans the water before continuing on.
Rising out of the muddy, smelly swamp he places the severed arm reverently down on a stump and then flops down. Taking off a boot he pours water out and examines his foot. His face seems paler...
"Either something bit me or I stood on something"! If it doesn't look like like there's a secondary poison/phase he will pop his boot back on and man-up. ;-)
(Perception and Save rolls failed / Healing:16).
“Benni” AC 18/11/17 CMD12 HP 13/13 Onesimos (SteveK) d20+7=23 ; Friday December 10th, 2021 12:13:36 AM
Onesimos comes to help a fellow cleric in need, assisting Kristoph’s own diagnosis.
Aid Another 23 to give Kristoph a +2
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 10th, 2021 7:09:27 AM
Teddy moans as his fears are realized and he quickly casts dancing lights under the water, hoping to illuminate whatever is in there.
DM JamesM: Day 2 - Afternoon 4:30 PM Ouchies (Map) d2=1 ; Friday December 10th, 2021 9:06:38 AM
Einar was just not used to this kind of environment and hadn't adjusted as yet even as Tae congratulated everyone cheerfully. Kristoph found the boat and started bringing it back in but it was readily apparent that he'd stepped on something in the water. Blood billowed up in the water beneath him as he dragged himself ashore and fell down as he started to remove his boot.
There in his foot was a six inch spine of some sort that had pierced his boot and foot.
Kristoph, Benni, or Heal DC 11 Highlight to display spoiler: {The spine is poisoned. Kristoph needs to make another FORT Save DC 11 or take 1 additional point of CON damage.}
KS: Nature DC 11 Highlight to display spoiler: {It's a dragonfish spine and while they aren't aggressive it's generally not a good thing when you step on one. (The poison will continue to work on him for another 4 rounds unless he makes a FORT save against the poison.)}
Teddy illuminates the water, but whatever was there is gone.
While they tended to Kristoph everyone else had a chance to look at the arm. It looked like it had been removed forcibly at the shoulder and then eaten a bit by swamp creatures. As Kristoph said there was a tattoo on the arm of a mermaid.
KS: Local DC 15 - Highlight to display spoiler: {A mark on the arm identifies it as belonging to the woad hunter Illarial. She’d never have survived such an injury so you suspect she is dead.}
KS: Local DC 20 - Highlight to display spoiler: {You seem to remember hearing that Illarial sometimes returned with Reefclaw. It was a particular favorite of the mayors and the lord of the manor.}
Heal DC 11 - Highlight to display spoiler: {The injuries on the arm are consistent with Reefclaw. }
As for the boat, it seemed little the worse for wear and once righted and emptied everything was there that they'd need. There was also two intact Reefclaw and a few others that had been eaten by something...crabs most likely.
PS: Sailor DC 10 or INT DC 15 Highlight to display spoiler: {It's a small boat and while everyone will fit inside it you are certain it's going to be riding low in the water. You'll not want to get in any fights while piloting it. }
Snark Riverstone (MarkB) AC13 T13 F10, CMD 11, HP 15/15 d20+7=8 ; d20+3=9 ; Friday December 10th, 2021 1:27:26 PM
(Knowledge Local 8, INT check 9)
"Sorry you got hurt there. Thanks for wading out to get the boat. Maybe this'll help." Snark looks at the still enlarged Kristoph's foot and casts Resistance (+1 on next save) on him.
"At least you're fully armed now.
"What? Too soon?"
He looks at the Reefclaw in the boat. "That boat'll probably hold us better if we toss those things out. Or maybe we make a fire and eat em first."
Whatever is decided, Snark will get in the boat with the others and head out.
Kristoph: (Stephen C) | AC:17 | CMD:21 | HP: 14/17 - POISONED! - - Blusinda: AC:12 | HP:16/16 d20+10=30 ; d20+9=19 ; Friday December 10th, 2021 7:05:11 PM
Kristoph cleans the wound and thanks Snark.
(Heal:30)
'Treat Poison: By treating a single character who has been poisoned and who is going to take more damage from the poison (or suffer some other effect), when the poisoned character makes a saving throw against the poison, you make a Heal check. If your Heal check exceeds the DC of the poison, the character receives a +4 competence bonus on his saving throw against the poison' - I didn't know this so it's for my reference/reminder).
Kristoph is still dizzy and slightly pale but seems to be ok. Back to his normal size he bandages his foot and puts his boot back on. "I'm good to go".
Isaac Harker (Justin M) HP 24/24 AC18/ T12 / FF 16 d20+4=10 ; d20+2=11 ; d20+1=18 ; d20+4=5 ; Friday December 10th, 2021 9:23:18 PM
Isaac sucks in his breath as the others take out the spine whatever had stung him Isaac hoped there were no more of the creatures. He took a look at the arm "Whoever it belonged to I don't recognize it" He takes a look over at the boat it would hold all of them but.. "When we load up in this we got to be carful to much rocking and we'll capsize the boat." At Snarks suggestion to eat the Reef Claw he internally gags "Not a good idea you'll will get food poisoning. No telling how long they've been there." Kristoph Heal:10 Arm Heal:5 :( Know Local:11 Int Roll:18
Drotar Zaviyar (Robert S) AC 14/12/12 CMD 16 HP 14 d20+7=22 ; Friday December 10th, 2021 11:18:58 PM
Drotar looks at the arm, noticing the markings.
"I do. One of the woad hunters, she was one of the few who dared to hunt reefclaw. My guess is that her luck ran out."
(KS Local 22)
Tae-Che (Jim) HP 9/9 AC 12/12/10 CMD 13 Friday December 10th, 2021 11:39:58 PM
Tae Che is concerned about Isaac but let's others do the handiwork as she's not very conversant with any skills in that area. "Might it be better to camp before heading out on the boat? That way, everyone will be a bit more focused." She states to the others.
“Benni” AC 18/11/17 CMD12 HP 13/13 Onesimos (SteveK) Sunday December 12th, 2021 8:09:41 AM
Onesimos awkwardly pats the hand, and provides a hole and burial with some prayerful thoughts. ”We all go beyond the Shadowlands eventually; I hope she is able to rest from her cares and pain while she is there.”. He wonders what a reefclaw looks like and agrees with Tae-Che, ”I think a different set of divine spells would work better in the swamp. Can we rest here until tomorrow?”
Einar (StevenVdB) - HP27/27 - AC18/13/15 - CMD 18 d20+6=24 ; Sunday December 12th, 2021 1:38:47 PM
(Knowledge nature 24)
Einar's concerned that in this place danger and poison just lurks around every corner, under every rock and in every pool of murky water. The prospect of camping out here again doesn't really appeal to the Barbarian. They are fighting things they can't see... What's would be dangerous... camping out here or pressing on?!
Gore'Thum and Teddy Treeborn (Mitch) HP 12/12 AC 12/11/12 CMD 11 Gore'Thum HP 10/16 AC 12/12/11 Sunday December 12th, 2021 8:33:02 PM
Teddy is not one to eagerly press on into danger but he doesn't want to rest in the creepy woods, especially since they rested after the sheep fight and have just been marching through the area since. "We should keep going, get done, and get out. I don't like it here."
DM JamesM: Day 2 - Evening 5:00 PM - Push on or stop? (Map) d10=8 ; d10=7 ; d10=7 ; Monday December 13th, 2021 9:23:06 AM
Snark thanked Kristoph for getting the boat and then cast a spell to aid him in resisting the poison. Kristoph pulled out his healing kit and worked for a few seconds on the injury and was able to remove the spine and a good portion of the poison. After a moment or two sensation had returned to his foot and it had a healthy pink color once more. He'd managed to control the poison and prevent any further damage from it. Issac isn't sure about eating the Reefclaw and warns the others about the small boat and all of them inside it. Drotar recognized the arm as that belonging to a woad hunter and suspected she had fallen to a reefclaw. Tae suggested camping here since it was already late in the afternoon. Benni also wants to camp for the evening as he looks at the two reefclaw in the boat. They look like large lobsters with oversized claws. Einar is wary of unseen dangers and uncertain about what to do. Teddy is for pushing on even though the sun is near to setting.
They stood at the edge of a body of water to their north. It was easy to see now that the mist was caused by the temperature difference of the water and the air causing quite a bit of ground fog. That fog seemed to amplify nearby sounds and make others seem more distant as they could hear splashing sounds in the distance that might be fishing jumping from the water, reef claw coming to eat them, or pirates guiding a boat carefully through the swamp. There were so many things that might lurk under the water or just out of sight in the mist.
Will Save DC 15 Highlight to display spoiler: {You are shaken til morning.}
Survival DC 10 Highlight to display spoiler: {The water is near freezing and brackish. It's likely the Reefclaw is free of bacteria and good to eat. It does appear as if the only good parts would be the claws themselves with each providing about a pound of meat. It is supposed to taste like lobster.}
Survival DC 15 Highlight to display spoiler: {There is a dry spot, or higher ground, about 20' from the trail near another of those short monuments they'd seen in the swamp. It looks like it's been used before. You can see the remnants of a fire there as well as a few stones used to encircle it. Everything is wet but that particular spot looks like it would still be above water at high tide.}
Survival DC 20 Highlight to display spoiler: {You can start a fire with local materials. You also think that the weather will clear some by morning. It will still be raining, but the temperature will drop significantly enough to make the mist coming off the water fade.}
Perception DC 25 Highlight to display spoiler: {As the sun sets you think you see something rising up out of the mist to the north. It could be the island of standing stones, or some other obstacle. Whatever it is the shape looks man made.}
Einar (StevenVdB) - HP27/27 - AC18/13/15 - CMD 18 d20=8 ; d20+3=13 ; d20+3=6 ; Monday December 13th, 2021 2:13:48 PM
(Will save 8 - Fail - again)
Ok this place is just not it for Einar... the barbarian does ok as long as he can swing his falchion but out here he's pretty useless. He makes a mental note to himself that next time he goes out to some scary swamp he should bring some potions that will help him calm down...
(Survival 13)
He puts on a sour face with bewildered eyes... [8b]"That fish thing is eatable but... don't we have something else to eat? Even a dry lump of bread would sounds better...
(Perception 6)
Einar's just too shaken to note anything right now...
“Benni” AC 18/11/17 CMD12 HP 13/13 Onesimos (SteveK) d20+8=21 ; Monday December 13th, 2021 3:30:25 PM
Onesimos is able to think of helping the community and not become shaken for the rest of the night. He moves about to the others, giving a few good words, a Calming Touch to who needs it to remove their own shaken conditions. ”we need a good night’s rest before trying to find if there are any more survivors.”
The elf doesn’t know about reefclaw delicacies, but at least he knows what a reefclaw IS now. And a lone arm on an overturned boat doesn’t seem like something the lobster-like reefclaw could do. It makes Benni nervous. And he eats some preserved rations for the night.
…. Will. 21. Not shaken Use Calming Touch on Einar and anyone else who may fail thier save (the first 6 to fail) to remove Shaken.
In spite of his preparations, Snark is getting a bit scared. But Benni's ministration make him feel a little better.
"Thanks Benni - you're alright. I don't like this place neither Teddy, it give me the willies. Sun's goin' down and I don't wanna be out on that water in the dark.
"As for eating these things, well, we ain't got no butter but they're 'sposed to be good eatin', so lemme see that I can do. Also, with this cold water and how fresh they are, we shouldn't have a problem."
He looks around, and his practiced eye sees a space that's pretty dry and should stay that way all night. "Hey, this is a good spot to camp. There's a little marker here, I can even see where folks before us has a campfire."
The little gnome move amoung the party, using Prestidigitation to dry everyone off. He makes sure everyone's bedrolls and gear are dry, and he even dries the firewood. Once the fire is going he will work with the others to get the meaty parts of the reefclaw cleaned and on the fire. Then he can use Prestidigitation to flavor the meat and make it even taste like it's got butter and salt!
As for camp, the little gnome will again use his waterproof tarp to keep dry as he sleeps. He's happy to take a turn at watch as before.
"Yeah, this place is bad but it'd be a lot worse without you guys here too."
Isaac Harker (Justin M) HP 24/24 AC18/ T12 / FF 16 d20+6=7 ; d20-2=3 ; d20=17 ; Monday December 13th, 2021 5:55:02 PM
Something about this night sends a chill through Isaac normally he wouldn't be affected by the night but out in the cold and so far away from home fear starts to rise in him. He doesn't really know anything about the woods. The fog also obscures his vision ha can't see anything in the haze.
"I think for now we need to keep our sprits up." Isaac takes a bite from Reefclaw despite his earlier protests he was curious what they tasted like. " Does anyone want to tell a story? Might help lighten the mood." He was trying to hide the quiver of his hands from the others. He felt like something was watching them in the fog.
Will Save: 7 :( Shaken Survival: 3 :( Perception: 17
DM JonS: OMG Moment Monday December 13th, 2021 6:06:35 PM
OOC Sorry but I gotta say this, 'Does anyone want to tell a story? Might help lighten the mood' made me instantly think of the scene in the Aliens movie where their APC had blown up when their landing ship crashed into it ... ok, weird stuff goes through my head at times, please return to facing that Killer Giant Swamp Hamster that james and I have been designing in the background, mwhahahahahahah...
Blusinda is a portable fire... Kristoph chucks whatever he can find in and sits silently for a minute staring into the blue flames before taking some bread from his backpack and toasting it over the campfire. Carefully unwrapping a block of cheese he begins slicing it as he speaks: "An old teacher of mine told me a story once...
A warrior climbs a mountain in search of a monk. Eventually finding his cave he asks: 'What is the secret of heaven & hell'? The monk remains quiet and simply smiles. Infuriated the warrior draws his sword and shouts: 'Do not mock me old man! I have travelled halfway across the Wold and climbed a mountain to find you to learn this secret"! But the monk simply remains silent. The warriors face darkens and his grip tightens as he raises his sword even more - preparing to strike the defenseless monk. Finally the monk says: 'Brother, this is hell'! The words slice through the warriors rage and sheathing his sword he bows before the monk: 'I am truly sorry forgive me, I don't know what came over me'! The monks smile fades and in earnest he says: 'And brother, this is heaven'!
Kristoph allows a short beat for his words to settle like falling autumn leaves, then placing a hand on his chest: 'The true battlefield lays here - within our hearts"!
Then breaking his bread he passes slices of cheese on toast around the blue campfire.
Kristoph: (Stephen C) | AC:17 | CMD:21 | HP: 14/17 - Con drained! - Blusinda: AC:12 | HP:16/16 d20+7=14 ; Monday December 13th, 2021 7:16:49 PM
(Perception: fail)
Tae-Che (Jim) HP 9/9 AC 12/12/10 CMD 13 d20+5=21 ; d20+2=11 ; d20+2=19 ; Monday December 13th, 2021 8:52:08 PM
Tae Che settles into her bedroll after having some of the reefclaw and bread and cheese, thanking each of the chefs as she takes the food. She was uncomfortable out in the swamp but undeterred by the fog and noises. She will take her watch time as normal, continuing to slowly work on a new jewelry piece.
[Will: 21; Survival: 11; Perception: 19]
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=6 ; d20=16 ; d20=19 ; Tuesday December 14th, 2021 8:11:20 AM
Teddy finally fails a will save and is shaken (10). Gore'Thum continues to be fine. Teddy is able to help make camp and find the best dry spots to do so (survival 26). He has trouble sleeping.
DM JamesM: Day 2 - Evening 7:00 PM - Camp Food (Map) d10=1 ; d10=8 ; d10=1 ; d10=9 ; d20=5 ; d6=2 ; Tuesday December 14th, 2021 9:35:59 AM
They had just finished eating the reef claw and discovered that it indeed was a tasty animal. There was no doubt that these would bring in at least 50 gp each if they found more. Kristoph had just started his story when most of the party(Perception DC 5) noticed the sound of a boat sliding onto the sand through the grasses nearby.
Low light vision, Darkvision, or Perception DC 15 Highlight to display spoiler: {Two men in a boat have slipped out of it and are circling around to each side of the group. They look like pirates.}
Einar (StevenVdB) - HP27/27 - AC18/13/15 - CMD 18 d20+5=14 ; Tuesday December 14th, 2021 11:31:06 AM
Einar thankfully smiles at Benni as he starts to feel a lot more calm. Sheepishly he turns to the reefclaw but once he tastes the meat he starts to smile... that's tasty after all...
(perception 14)
Snark Riverstone (MarkB) AC13 T13 F10, CMD 11, HP 15/15 d20+6=24 ; Tuesday December 14th, 2021 1:02:12 PM
The gnome's low light vision finally pays off!
In a low voice, he says to the others. "Um, a boat just pulled up and we got a couple of folks sneaking up on us - one that way, and one that way. See? They're right there and there." He points out the two.
Snark will cast Dancing Lights creating 4 torch lights near the pirate to the northwest of us.
Einar (StevenVdB) - HP27/27 - AC18/13/15 - CMD 18 Tuesday December 14th, 2021 1:37:15 PM
At Snark's warning Einar grabs his sword... "I'll have a dozen of thieves over this swamp any time..., he mutters to no one in particular, "... that is... as long as they are alive... "
“Benni” AC 18/11/17 CMD12 HP 13/13 Onesimos (SteveK) d20+5=15 ; d20+5=14 ; d20+2=17 ; Tuesday December 14th, 2021 3:00:30 PM
Onesimos applauds Kristoph’s story, and begins one of his own, of the most beautiful and ugliest people in the Wold, how they met, and how each learned how passing surface beauty really is. He’s too caught up in his telling to notice sounds, but the elf has come to trust Snark’s perceptions! He stands and makes sure his buckler and Morningstar are ready.
”Only two against the dozen of us? We don’t even need to call in our sentries! Let’s hope they are wise and peacefully meet us.”
… Perform Story. 15 Perception. 14 Bluff 17
Snark Riverstone (MarkB) AC13 T13 F10, CMD 11, HP 15/15 Tuesday December 14th, 2021 4:21:13 PM
Snarks smiles as he says quietly to Benni, "Now, if you scare 'em off we're not gonna get that extra boat."
Now, if you scare 'em off we're not gonna get that extra boat
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?
Einar (StevenVdB) - HP27/27 - AC18/13/15 - CMD 18 Tuesday January 11th, 2022 7:10:37 PM
(I hope nothing serious Jon - take care)
Einar waits for the outcome om the ambush
DM JonS: Swampy Goodness Tuesday January 11th, 2022 8:33:37 PM
[OOC: Thank you mark [/i] The bad guys are 60' away. They have dropped their crossbows and drawn weapons.
Einar, Tae Che, Benni, and Gore thum have moved up 30'. Snark has moved up 20'. Teddy does not move up. Isaac does not move up and fires his crossbow.
Tae Chi hit the left Bad Guy has had Daze cast at him ...
Kristoph rolls over in the boat, dreaming of a warm soft bed
DM JonS: Swampy Goodness (Rolls and explanations) d20+1=4 ; d20+2=5 ; d20+2=5 ; Tuesday January 11th, 2022 8:37:22 PM
Left hand BG is Dazed
Einar's bolt misses as his target unceremoniously moves to the right
Snark Riverstone (MarkB) AC13 T13 F10, CMD 11, HP 15/15 Tuesday January 11th, 2022 8:59:33 PM
(OOC: no Grease spell was cast, only Silent Image.)
Snark scurries up to Einar, using his Wand of Enlarge Person to turn Einar into a veritable giant. Well, a giant compared to the little gnome. Just size large for everyone else.
This also means he has to stop concentrating on the illusion, so the swirling spirits suddenly vanish. Still, Snark yells, "BEWARE! SURRENDER NOW OR THE SPIRITS OF THE DEAD MAY RETURN FOR YOU!"
Tae-Che (Jim) HP 9/9 AC 12/12/10 CMD 13 Tuesday January 11th, 2022 10:07:03 PM
Tae Che nods thanks to Benni for the healing and then casts her Mage Armor spell on herself before taking her longspear into her hands.
“Benni” AC 18/11/17 CMD12 HP 13/13 Onesimos (SteveK) Wednesday January 12th, 2022 12:42:36 AM
Onesimos is thankful the spirits have gone, but still doesn’t like the implications of Snark being, to his sight, a necromancer. He catches up to Tae-Che, and holds his Morningstar in one hand and the lantern in the other.
….. Double move (40’)
Channel Energy. 1 of 6 Calming Touch. 1 of 6
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=12 ; Wednesday January 12th, 2022 3:19:40 AM
Gore'Thum advances to just out of the two men's reach and rumbles, Listen to the gnome. Surrender." He glares at them and tries to look intimidating (11 intimidate). Teddy realizes what's gone and hurries closer (double move to 20 feet away)
Snark Riverstone (MarkB) AC13 T13 F10, CMD 11, HP 15/15 Wednesday January 12th, 2022 1:05:25 PM "Huh. 'Listen to the gnome." Now that's a phrase you don't hear too much. Yer alright there Toadzilla!"
Einar (StevenVdB) - HP27/27 - AC18/13/15 - CMD 18 d20+4=8 ; d20+9=28 ; d20+9=14 ; 2d6+10=17 ; Wednesday January 12th, 2022 1:37:40 PM
Enlarged Einar wickedly smiles... he hates this swamp... he hates everything in it... especially if they are being shot at. (Intimidate 8 - meh)
"Where not the bad guys... unless you want us to... "
He might not look too intimidating but that does not stop Einar from advancing. He now has a 10ft reach so just when he is in range he swings his Falchion at the nearest culprit. Unless they surrender asap Einar strikes.
Kristoph: (Stephen C) | AC:17 | CMD:21 | HP: 19/19 - Blusinda: AC:12 | HP:16/16 Wednesday January 12th, 2022 8:09:10 PM
Kristoph sleepily strolls off the boat - rubbing his hair and mumbling something about why no one woke him up.
then spotting the giant barbarian he grins and races to catch up.
DM JonS: Swampy Goodness (Rolls and explanations) d20+1=2 ; d20+1=9 ; Wednesday January 12th, 2022 11:19:38 PM OOC: Ok, so, I've updated a couple of posts with the correct information, such as no Grease spell in effect, and sending our friend Drotar aka Robert off to some unknown inn somewhere
OOC: OMG
The pirate that had sidestepped the crossbow bolt, throws his cutlass and himself to the ground as a giant Einar moves up ... "I give, this job ain't worth dying over!"
The other pirate comes out of his daze, sees Einar and follows his friend in throwing down his cutlass, and falls to the ground, "Don't kill us sir, we're just here to do a job!"
“Benni” AC 18/11/17 CMD12 HP 13/13 Onesimos (SteveK) d20+8=14 ; d20+5=23 ; Thursday January 13th, 2022 6:11:52 AM
Onesimos sees the team has these two pirates in hand, and is confident between the intimidating Einar and talkitive Snark, their erstwhile opponents will soon be spilling what they know. He lostens in to catch any hints.
That leaves the cleric to scan around with the lantern to see if there is anything the Makers missed while focused on crossbow bolts from the dark. He will report anything he finds.
….. Sense Motive 14 Perception. 23
Channel Energy. 1 of 6 Calming Touch. 1 of 6
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 January 13th, 2022 7:12:20 AM "What job? Explain." Gore'Thum demands.
Einar (StevenVdB) - HP27/27 - AC18/13/15 - CMD 18 Thursday January 13th, 2022 10:31:20 AM
Einar sees the pirates are surrendering and starts ranting : "What?!? NO no nononono... pick up your weapon... fight... I won't hit hard... oh c'mon... "
Towering over Snark, who enlarged Einar, he looks down at the Gnome and sighs ... "They don't wanna play... "
Snark Riverstone (MarkB) AC13 T13 F10, CMD 11, HP 15/15 Thursday January 13th, 2022 11:32:17 AM
Snark cranes his neck to look up at the giant Einar. He pats the man's calf, which is about the level of the gnome right now. "There, there Einar. We'll find you something to hit, but you'll just have to wait."
He turns his attention to the pirates.
"As for you two scallywags, you best come clean about what you're doing here, what this job is, and who set you to this task! Einar's here's the least of your worries. We have a man-eating frog and a firecat. And I could always bring back those ghosts..."
As he listens to the men, Snark will cast Detect Magic to scan these two and the general area.
He'll look over expectantly at Isaac, hoping the Paladin might check the area for evil as well.
DM JonS: Swampy Goodness (Rolls and explanations) Thursday January 13th, 2022 2:58:23 PM
The two pirates look at each other and sigh. The guy that got dazed starts "The boss heard about some honey that was worth money. 'E sent us in here to look for it. There were six of us then."
The other one then continues, "We found the trees, and the aggressive bees with them. Dav and Shem were killed fighting reefers. We killed the reefers and took their claws. Pat and Fred and us got the trees dug up, and the roots taken care of real careful like, and then, ummm..."
Dazed and confused continues, "Something hit us hard. Dav and Shem were dead before we could move. We ran, jumped in the water and waited. Whatever it was, never came to look for us. Their bodies, they was gone when we came back. We grabbed the trees and honey and started to move out when we heard rowing, and figured some easy loot would make things better ..."
Detect Magic - Nothing glows other than what the party has on/with them
Detect Evil - this region is pervasive with evil, including the area of red flowers and the Standing Stones. Whether this is an aspect of the Swamp itself, or something else, only Sages could answer
Sense Motive - both are frightened but they appear to be telling the truth
Isaac Harker (Justin M) HP 24/24 AC18/ T12 / FF 16 Thursday January 13th, 2022 5:16:45 PM
Isaac remembers that some sort of dark fey creature was near by could that be what attacked them? "This Honey what's so special about it?"
Kristoph: (Stephen C) | AC:17 | CMD:21 | HP: 19/19 - Blusinda: AC:12 | HP:16/16 Thursday January 13th, 2022 6:23:55 PM
Kristoph joins the party and listens intently
Snark Riverstone (MarkB) AC13 T13 F10, CMD 11, HP 15/15 d20+6=12 ; Thursday January 13th, 2022 6:40:47 PM
Snark gets out a piece of parchment and starts taking notes.
"Lemme get this straight. The boss sends you here for honey. Who's this boss fella an' where is he?
"You found the trees and bees, and then Dav and Shem get killed by reefclaws? Pat and Fred dig up the trees, and they get killed by something else. What killed them - what did it look like, and how did it hurt Pat and Fred?
"So, where's this honey? Why'd you hafta dig up trees? How'd you keep them bees from stinging you?
"You boys are a little hard to follow. Sounds like reefer madness to me."
Snark looks around for anything else. Are there stones in the distance by those trees? Where's their boat?
(Perception 12)
Tae-Che (Jim) HP 9/9 AC 12/12/10 CMD 13 Thursday January 13th, 2022 9:09:09 PM
Tae Che steps up to Einar and Snark and listens in on the conversations with the pirates. She does keep an eye out for strange and unusual occurrences.
“Benni” AC 18/11/17 CMD12 HP 13/13 Onesimos (SteveK) d20+5=15 ; Friday January 14th, 2022 3:53:36 AM
Onesimos sees the team has these two pirates in hand, and the cleric continues to scan around with the lantern to see if there is anything in the dark. He will report anything he finds.
….. Perception. 15
Channel Energy. 1 of 6 Calming Touch. 1 of 6
"Einar (StevenVdB) - HP27/27 - AC16/11/14 - CMD 17" d20+5=22 ; Friday January 14th, 2022 5:33:26 AM
Einar comes from his rage and mutters...
”Something hit us hard... phew... I can hit you hard to you know... and would you just jump into these foul waters... stand your ground and fight..."
Still enlarged Einar listens to what they are saying and he keeps an eye out for trouble ( perception 22)
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 January 14th, 2022 6:41:47 AM "Foolish. Already lost four, picked fight with eight." Gore'Thum comments disdainfully.
Isaac Harker (Justin M) HP 24/24 AC18/ T12 / FF 16 Friday January 14th, 2022 8:30:51 PM
Isaac nods in agreement with Gore'thum fighting after so many losses was a foolish move.
DM JonS: Swampy Goodness (Rolls and explanations) Friday January 14th, 2022 8:39:48 PM OOC: Sorry for the late post, I've been working doubles the last few days.
KS: Nature DC 15 Highlight to display spoiler: { Ogeechee tupelo trees grow very well in swamps/swampy conditions. They have white, smooth bark. Their flowers are flat and white and attract more than normal amounts of bees. }
KS: Nature DC 20 Highlight to display spoiler: { Tupelo honey glows with a light green tint, especially when it’s fresh from the comb and bathed in sunlight. The first taste is of cinnamon with a tingle of anise. That gives way to a whisper of jasmine and tangerine rind. The honey is soft, light and buttery, and stays that way for weeks to months before it hardens. Saplings can be transplanted into marshy/swampy waters, where they quickly grow into the monster trees the party can see dotting the distance. }
Perception DC 20 Highlight to display spoiler: { Something, or a shadow of something is cautiously moving in the grasses and shrubs close to the Standing Stones.}
"Who's this boss fella an' where is he?" They both look at each other, faces pale, "We don't say his name, 'eh's just the Boss."
"You found the trees and bees, and then Dav and Shem get killed by reefclaws? Pat and Fred dig up the trees, and they get killed by something else. What killed them - what did it look like, and how did it hurt Pat and Fred?" Their faces get even paler, "We don't know. One minute they were there, then a fetid moldy smell hit us, and they were just gone, their screams echoed in our ears as we ran."
"So, where's this honey? Why'd you hafta dig up trees? How'd you keep them bees from stinging you? The one that got dazed sighs, "The honey we were able to get is at our camp. The bees, we smoked them with some wet grasses, that's what the boss said to do. The trees, the Boss said to bring some back, we don' ask questions, we just do."
There is no sign of a boat within sight
Tae-Che (Jim) HP 9/9 AC 12/12/10 CMD 13 d20+2=5 ; Friday January 14th, 2022 8:51:03 PM
Tae Che nods at the pirates. Their story sounds good enough, but you never know. "Lead the way to your camp, then." She tells them, keeping her longspear pointing at them. [Perception: 5]
“Benni” AC 18/11/17 CMD12 HP 13/13 Onesimos (SteveK) d20+5=23 ; Saturday January 15th, 2022 9:07:05 AM
Onesimos is rewarded by his careful study. ”Dont look now, but there seems to be something moving by the Standing Stones. If these are the only two pirates left, it could be our mouldy culprit!”
“We can’t leave these two wandering about, so maybe take thier weapons and make them stay with us?”
Benni can’t really think of a better plan.
Onesimos sees the team has these two pirates in hand, and the cleric continues to scan around with the lantern to see if there is anything in the dark. He will report anything he finds.
"Tupelo honey is very tasty" Einar adds, "The first taste is of cinnamon with a tingle of anise. That gives way to a whisper of jasmine and tangerine rind. The honey is soft, light and buttery... I'm sure Selene would love some... There's probably more in those monster trees over there...
Einar freezes when Benni mentions there something moving by the standing stones. The Barbarian casually positions himself between the party and those stones. His 10ft reach and uncanny dodge might come in handy should there be some surprise attack. At least Einar now knows where to expect danger from.
(OOC: IIRC the standing stones are about 60' from where we are now, correct?)
The gnome's sharp eyes don't miss much this time. He points for the others as he quietly says, "Yeah I see it too Benni. Sumthin' moving near them stones, right about there...
"As for these two, let's leave them with the crossbows for now and make 'em follow us. They'd have to be idiots to attack us a second time. Although, as Gore'thum noted they aint too bright."
He turns to look up at the two pirates. "Awright, gimme your swords and daggers and pickup those crossbows. We're goin' after whatever killed your friends and you two are gonna back us up. And if you decide to run or double cross us, we'll track you down and make sure you join those spirits you saw before. And even if you do get away, we'll put out word for The Boss that you gave him up and abandoned your friends.
"So either way, it won't end well for you unless you do as we say. You get me?"
"Einar, I'm ready to make you big again if that wears off."
As he goes, the gnome tries to keep track of where that thing is creeping through the grass.
DM JonS: Swampy Goodness (Rolls and explanations) d20+13=33 ; Sunday January 16th, 2022 12:56:35 AM
The Standing Stones (just to reiterate) - there are 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. }
The two pirates look at each other, then scramble to pick up the crossbows. Their cutlasses are already on the ground, and they hand their daggers over to whoever will take them.
As soon as the pirates hand their weapons over, a 6-foot tall hideous grey brute appears next to the guy who was dazed. The brute swings a stone battleaxe as it calls out in a guttural voice ”More have come mother. You won’t be hungry for long.”
The battleaxe slams into the pirates' head, destroying it, and killing him with one blow
Einar (StevenVdB) RAGE 0/13 - HP31/31 - AC14/9/12 - CMD 19 d20+9=18 ; 2d6+10=15 ; Sunday January 16th, 2022 10:29:48 AM
(OOC - I don't mind running battles without map but that leaves a lot of room for interpretation)
Einar, still enlarged, sees the grey brute appear and watches him slay on the pirates in one mighty blow! The barbarian swings his falchion from left to right and then steps forward engaging brute...
"Let's dance..."
Hits AC18 - damage 15HP
Not sure if this 'kid' not only has his mother here but also has his father around though...
Tae-Che (Jim) HP 9/9 AC 12/12/10 CMD 13 d20+2=12 ; d8+1=8 ; Sunday January 16th, 2022 7:03:48 PM
Tae Che moves to attack the large creature that just appeared, standing next to Einar. She swings the longspear at the creature. The tip of the spear skitters across the hide of the creature. [To Hit: 12; damage: 8 if successful]
DM JonS: Swampy Goodness (Rolls and explanations) Sunday January 16th, 2022 11:40:42 PM OOC: Ok. I know the GM in the Culverwood campaign made and linked a map. I have to go in to work tonight, so I'll figure out how she did it and try to get a map posted before I get off at 730am tomorrow
Snark Riverstone (MarkB) AC13 T13 F10, CMD 11, HP 15/15 Monday January 17th, 2022 1:44:15 AM "Hey, easy with that axe there big guy.
"Wait a minute. You still live with your mother? A big fella like you? It's probably time you moved out, you know, got your own place? C'mon, whadda ya say?"
Snark will cast Color Spray to catch just the brute. (DC 14 Will save)
---------------------------- Color Spray - A vivid 15' cone of clashing colors springs forth from your hand, causing creatures to become stunned, perhaps also blinded, and possibly knocking them unconscious. Each creature within the cone is affected according to its HD.
2 HD or less: The creature is unconscious, blinded, and stunned for 2d4 rounds, then blinded and stunned for 1d4 rounds, and then stunned for 1 round. (Only living creatures are knocked unconscious.)
3 or 4 HD: The creature is blinded and stunned for 1d4 rounds, then stunned for 1 round.
5 or more HD: The creature is stunned for 1 round.
Sightless creatures are not affected by color spray."
DM JonS: Swampy Goodness (Rolls and explanations) Monday January 17th, 2022 3:39:00 AM OOC: I'm not the best artist but, lets see if this works
Y'all should be able to move your icons to where you want to be
Kristoph: (Stephen C) | AC:19 | CMD:21 | HP: 19/19 (ACTIVE - Shield of faith) - Blusinda: AC:12 | HP:16/16 Monday January 17th, 2022 7:15:56 AM
Kristoph is surprised when the creature makes it's entrance but recovers quickly and casts shield of faith in himself.
Einar (StevenVdB) RAGE 0/13 - HP31/31 - AC14/9/12 - CMD 19 Monday January 17th, 2022 10:47:15 AM
Let's assume Einar is at O21 at 10 ft reach from the creature.
Snark Riverstone (MarkB) AC13 T13 F10, CMD 11, HP 15/15 Monday January 17th, 2022 11:39:30 AM
(Travelling today. May adjust move and map when I can. If no room for Color Spray, will enlarge Kristoph instead.)
“Benni” AC 18/11/17 CMD12 HP 13/13 Onesimos (SteveK) d20+5=23 ; Monday January 17th, 2022 4:18:47 PM
Onesimos is surprised. Appeared? Appeared!! This is an opponent that needs all their skills. The devotee of Flower casts a spell of blessing upon the group.
He tries to figure out if this is an undead minion. And will tell his friends what he knows.
….. Cast Bless. All PCs get +1 to attack and save vs fear
Knowledge Check (Religion) Identify undead and it’s weaknesses if CR 13 or lower. Roll. 23
Bless. 1 of 20 rds. +1 attack and save vs feat Channel Energy. 1 of 6 Calming Touch. 1 of 6
DM JonS: Swampy Goodness (Rolls and explanations) d20+7=24 ; d20=15 Monday January 17th, 2022 6:41:02 PM OOC: Take 2 of 'our' Battle map - I changed the access for those with the link to be able to edit the document, at least that's what the Youtube video I watched showed me as this whole Google Drive thing is still new to me
Actions so far, according to what everyone has posted so far: Benni cast Bless on the party Kristoph cast Shield of Faith on himself Einar and Tae-Che attacked the beastie after it destroyed one of the two pirates Snark moved a skosh and cast Color Spray at the beastie
Remaining Pirate, he peed himself when his friend got killed, but his resolve is solid, and he will drop back another 5' and then plans on firing his crossbow
KS: Religion DC 20 Highlight to display spoiler: { This is a Darkling, possibly a younger one or immature, not fully grown. It has magical abilities, a 10' combat reach, may be resistant to cold, and it is known they have some way to heal themselves ... but there are no known 'weaknesses' }
Einar's attack did hit the creature, and it appears displeased at the audacity of the barbarian Tae Che's attack missed Snark's spell, the beastie doesn't seem fazed by the explosion of pretty lights
OOC: I'll wait for the rest of the party to post before we move to the next round
Isaac Harker (Justin M) HP 24/24 AC18/ T12 / FF 16 d20+9=25 ; d20+2=22 ; Monday January 17th, 2022 10:33:23 PM
Isaac recognizes the creature drop his crossbow and drawing his sword he tells the others "It's a Darkling, it's got magic and can heal itself. It's not bothered by the cold." Isaac readies him self in case it attacks him and takes a five foot step towards the creature.
(Isaac takes a 5 foot step toward the creature after dropping his crossbow and drawing his sword. He takes a total defense action.) (Isaac starts at 25 P near the pirate on phone and can't alter map at this moment) (Know religion 25) Iniative 22
Tae-Che (Jim) HP 9/9 AC 12/12/10 CMD 13 d20+2=10 ; d20+2=6 ; Monday January 17th, 2022 11:41:13 PM
Tae Che will try to attack the beastie again with the longspear, whiffing miserably. [Initiative: 10; Attack: 6]
“Benni” AC 18/11/17 CMD12 HP 13/13 Onesimos (SteveK) d20+5=10 ; Tuesday January 18th, 2022 12:28:23 AM
Onesimos starts casting about, looking for more. “It said ‘Mother’ and acts immature; there may be others sneaking up in the dark!”
Benni continues to look about with the lantern, shining it into the darkness so anything hiding in shadows, well, hopefully can’t.
Perception 10
Bless. 1/20 rds. +1 to hit and save v fear Spontaneous. 1 of 6 Calming Touch. 1 of 6
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+4=20 ; d6=2 ; Tuesday January 18th, 2022 6:50:50 AM
Teddy casts dancing lights to illuminate the creature and give everyone plenty of light to fight by. Gore'Thum advances and tries to hit the thing (20 to hit, 4 damage)
Einar (StevenVdB) RAGE 0/13 - HP31/31 - AC14/9/12 - CMD 19 Tuesday January 18th, 2022 7:55:04 AM
(waiting for complete DM post - thanks for the map DM JonS. Works great. )
Snark Riverstone (MarkB) AC13 T13 F10, CMD 11, HP 15/15 d20+3=22 ; Tuesday January 18th, 2022 1:22:33 PM
As snark looks at this creature (Knowledge Religion DC 22.)
"Yeah, that's a Darkling alright. But he looks young. I'm gonna guess he's not as scary as his mom. And he's already pretty scary."
Snark moves '5. He can see that Isaac is holding back, so he will use his wand on Kristoph to Enlarge the monk instead.
(Einar is Enlarged. Kristoph is now Enlarged, and I place him on the map - hope that location is OK. Not sure where Isaac or Benni want to be placed.)
---------------------------- Enlarge Person - This increase changes the creature’s size category to the next larger one. The target gains a +2 size bonus to Strength, a -2 size penalty to Dexterity (to a minimum of 1), and a -1 penalty on attack rolls and AC due to its increased size. A humanoid creature whose size increases to Large has a space of 10 feet and a natural reach of 10 feet. This spell does not change the target’s speed. Equipment is similarly enlarged by the spell. Melee weapons deal more damage. Any enlarged item that leaves an enlarged creature’s possession instantly returns to its normal size. " ----------------------------------------------------------------------------- Spells/Effects Running: Enlarge-Einar(6/10), Enlarge-Kristoph(1/10)
Abilities/Items Acid Dart (Sp) 6 - 0 used Gnome (Sp) 1/day - Dancing Lights, Ghost Sound, Prestidigitation, and Speak with Animals. Wand of Enlarge - 47 charges left
Kristoph: (Stephen C) | AC:19 | CMD:21 | HP: 17/17 - Blusinda: AC:12 | HP:16/16 d20+4=24 ; d20+4=17 ; d20+4=19 ; 2d8+10=15 ; d8+5=6 ; Tuesday January 18th, 2022 9:46:53 PM
Kristoph's eyes widen and he staggers briefly as he unexpectedly grows. Examining his large hands he almost touches the creature on the shoulder as a range finder, quickly realising he didn't have to even move now...
Deciding to put the new frame to the test he sends in some jabs - the first is a haymaker! Flurry of blows: 25 (natural 20 with 18 to confirm) for 15 damage, second: 19 (for 6 damage).
(OOC: Sorry, forgot to add 'Bless'. Also if I have gotten ahead - consider this the next round's actions).
----------------- Spells/Effects Running: Shield of Faith (+2 deflection) (2/10) Bless. +1 to hit and save v fear Enlarge-Kristoph (1/10) - Large, +2 Str, -2 to Dex, -1 attack and AC. Note: Monk size (large) unarmed is d8 damage now with a natural reach of 10 feet.
DM JonS: Standing Stones d20+3=11 ; d20+2=15 ; d20+2=5 ; 5d4=15 ; Tuesday January 18th, 2022 10:25:56 PM OOC: My posting times are gonna be weird the next few weeks. I've picked up multiple extra shifts at work, so just a heads up =) Benni, I moved you to around K23 ... if that's cool
OOC2 – SNAFU report - I just facepalmed myself as I completely missed Kristoph’s attacks following being Enlarged
Attack Round as it’s playing out now that the Darkling took out a “party member”
Issac swaps weapons and defensively awaits a possible attack from the Darkling
An Enlarged Kristoph attacked twice with his Flurry of Blows, one a massively damaging hit, and the second a solid hit …
The Darkling howls, Mother I have failed you! and it drops to the ground unmoving
Teddy & Benni - casting/on watch
OOC3 – SNAFU Fix – So the Darkling never made it to licking it’s axe, or blasting the party with it’s cold attack as it got killed by you meanie-pants adventurers … lol
OOC4 – so now I feel like I’m a noob GM again … ok, so no one got entangled or injured by the blast of cold & snow.
Benni and Teddy (who didn’t fall to the ground) do not see anything moving their way at this time
Everyone can smell the scent of 'Eau de pee' rolling off the pirate as he has apparently wet himself a second time
So, we can pick up from here, and y'all can edit your posts as needed
Sir Issac - WILL Save roll please DC 15 (If you save) Highlight to display spoiler: { Although the Darkling is dead, something in the immediate area is evil enough to make you want to either cry, or puke, or both } If you fail Highlight to display spoiler: { You are shaken, and throw up everything you've eaten in the last few days. Something here is so evil that you need to bathe in Holy Water once whatever it is, is dealt with }
“Benni” AC 18/11/17 CMD12 HP 13/13 Onesimos (SteveK) d6=2 ; d20+5=13 Wednesday January 19th, 2022 12:22:09 AM The battle map, I hope
Ooc: I’m fine with Benni’s placement. Wasn’t looking at the map before! ……
Onesimos frowns, the Darkling is strong in magic and power. The elf thinks they need more offense, and there didn’t seem to be more of them appearing. But he himself needs to keep people healthy in battle when everyone is so … fragile.
Benni moves to J21 and gives another burst of positive energy, healing all creatures in 30’ with 2 hit points. (Ooc: J21 is more than 30’ away from the Darkling, so it doesn’t get healed)
He keeps looking around to make sure they aren’t surprised by another attack. ……
Perception. 13
Bless. 1 of 20 rds. +1 attack and save vs feat Channel Energy. 2 of 6 Calming Touch. 1 of 6
Einar (StevenVdB) RAGE 2/13 - HP18/31 - AC12/7/12 - CMD 17 d20+1=12 ; d20+7=14 ; 2d6+10=12 ; Wednesday January 19th, 2022 5:07:01 AM
(Ref Save 12 - fail - Einar takes damage and is entangled for 1 round)
Einar growls in frustration of being hurt and entangled. He shrugs of the cold and takes another swing at the Darkling.
HITS AC14 - damage 12
The barbarian feels the pain of the cold but also the postive energy coming from Benni.
**** STATUS **** Raging : round 2/13 Enlarged Entangled
Gore'Thum and Teddy Treeborn (Mitch) HP -1/14AC 12/11/12 CMD 11 Gore'Thum HP 8/23AC 12/12/11 d20+4=5 ; d20+3=6 ; d8=4 ; d6=2 ; d20+4=24 ; d20+4=14 ; d6=5 ; d6=2 ; Wednesday January 19th, 2022 7:34:22 AM
(Per Woldian rules we do not use initiative, we play in the order people post each day. Unless there is some reason we need it for this specific encounter)
Gor'Thum fails to get out of the way (4 reflex) and is entangled. Teddy also fails and goes down. Gore'Thum sees this so attacks before taking a 5 foot step so as to retreat next round (24, possible crit, 14 to confirm. 7 or 9 damage)
DM JamesM: Initiative Wednesday January 19th, 2022 9:12:46 AM
We do, you just never see it. :) Seriously though we do have a way to determine which group goes first and sometimes posting order doesn't work. Jon and I will figure this one out.
Snark Riverstone (MarkB) AC13 T13 F10, CMD 11, HP 15/15 Wednesday January 19th, 2022 11:57:38 AM (If that entangling snow was a spell-like ability, Einar, Tae-Che, Gore-Thum, Kristoph and Isaac should get an attack of opportunity before the effect happens, possibly disrupting the effect.)
Snark see Teddy go down. He backs up 5' and yells at the creature, "Hey! Your momma so ugly she'd make an onion cry!"
He casts Grease beneath the creature. (DC 14 Reflex Save.)
---------------------------- Grease - A grease spell covers a solid surface with a layer of slippery grease. Any creature in the area when the spell is cast must make a successful Reflex save or fall. A creature can walk within or through the area of grease at half normal speed with a DC 10 Acrobatics check. Failure means it can’t move that round (and must then make a Reflex save or fall), while failure by 5 or more means it falls (see the Acrobatics skill for details). Creatures that do not move on their turn do not need to make this check and are not considered flat-footed.
Einar (StevenVdB) RAGE 2/13 - HP18/31 - AC12/7/12 - CMD 17 d20+9=28 ; d20+9=14 ; 2d6+10=20 ; Wednesday January 19th, 2022 12:34:38 PM
Following up on MarkB's post in a potential AoO. Just rolling an AoO at the DM's discretion. Should it disrupt the spell my previous post should take out the entangle penalty.
Post above rework if not entangled should have been: HITS AC16 - damage 12
Kristoph: (Stephen C) | AC:19 | CMD:21 | HP: 17/17 - Blusinda: AC:12 | HP:16/16 Wednesday January 19th, 2022 4:20:46 PM
(OOC - not sure why you are waiting on Kristophs actions please see above)
Kristoph: (Stephen C) | AC:19 | CMD:21 | HP: 17/17 - Blusinda: AC:12 | HP:16/16 d20+5=21 ; d8+6=7 ; Wednesday January 19th, 2022 4:31:55 PM
Also if an attack of opportunity occurs (he had attacked last round and has 10' reach) attack: 21 for 7 damage
DM JonS: Standing Stones Wednesday January 19th, 2022 8:39:52 PM OOC: So I'm at work, but I'll be revising the last round with the beastie within the next couple of hours ... I have to apologize, as I didn't realize we didn't use Initiative in the Wold ... and, I either mis-read, or just misunderstood what accounts for an attack of opportunity when it comes to racial abilities ... thanks for putting up with me being old and blonde =)
Tae-Che (Jim) HP 9/9 AC 12/12/10 CMD 13 d20+3=7 ; d20+3=13 ; d8+1=5 ; Wednesday January 19th, 2022 8:40:29 PM
Tae Che continues her "onslaught" against the darkling thing. Her longspear again strikes the air next to the creature, fanning it slightly. [Normal Attack: 7; possible AoO: 13 Damage 5]
Isaac Harker (Justin M) HP 24/24 AC18/ T12 / FF 16 d20+5=9 ; d8+2=5 ; Wednesday January 19th, 2022 9:53:38 PM
Isaac takes another five foot step towards the creature if he isn't already next to it he draws back his sword Focuses on the creature calling on the gods he worships and attacks. He most likely misses.
Attack (9) Damage(5) Isaac activates smite. The darkling is the focus of the smite (If evil Add +3 to attack and +2 to damage, if undead+4 damage)
“Benni” AC 18/11/17 CMD12 HP 13/13 Onesimos (SteveK) Thursday January 20th, 2022 12:07:57 AM
Onesimos wonders about the Stones and Young Darkling, considering if there is a connection.
…. Ooc: taking no actions pending resolution of DM previous posts.
Perception. 13
Bless. 2 of 20 rds. +1 attack and save vs feat Channel Energy. 2 of 6 Calming Touch. 1 of 6
DM JonS: Standing Stones Thursday January 20th, 2022 12:57:03 AM
I've re-posted and fixed some glaring issues I didn't catch previously. At this time, the sounds of the swamp have returned to normal
Gore'Thum and Teddy Treeborn (Mitch) HP -1/14AC 12/11/12 CMD 11 Gore'Thum HP 8/23AC 12/12/11 Thursday January 20th, 2022 6:33:25 AM
Teddy and Gore'Thum are surprised at how easily the creature went down and look about warily for something else to burst out of the shadows and try to eat them.
“Benni” AC 18/11/17 CMD12 HP 13/13 Onesimos (SteveK) d6=1 ; Thursday January 20th, 2022 8:00:51 AM
Onesimos is glad the combined might of the group was enough to dispatch the Young Darkling before it could come up with more mischief.
The devotee channels another burst of positive energy (1 hit point), and moves towards the Stones.
”Maybe check for treasure, and let’s see if we can find the fate of the other Spirit Woad Hunters.”
…..
Bless. 3 of 20 rds. +1 attack and save vs feat Channel Energy. 3 of 6 Calming Touch. 1 of 6
DM JamesM: Repost 4d20(1+14+5+3)=23 4d8(1+6+2+5)=14 d100=9 d100=13 d100=28 Thursday January 20th, 2022 9:36:08 AM OOC: My posting times are gonna be weird the next few weeks. I've picked up multiple extra shifts at work, so just a heads up =) Benni, I moved you to around K23 ... if that's cool
OOC2 – SNAFU report - I just facepalmed myself as I completely missed Kristoph’s attacks following being Enlarged
Attack Round as it’s playing out now that the Darkling took out a “party member”
Issac swaps weapons and defensively awaits a possible attack from the Darkling
An Enlarged Kristoph attacked twice with his Flurry of Blows, one a massively damaging hit, and the second a solid hit …
The Darkling howls, Mother I have failed you! and it drops to the ground unmoving
Teddy & Benni - casting/on watch
OOC3 – SNAFU Fix – So the Darkling never made it to licking it’s axe, or blasting the party with it’s cold attack as it got killed by you meanie-pants adventurers … lol
OOC4 – so now I feel like I’m a noob GM again … ok, so no one got entangled or injured by the blast of cold & snow.
Benni and Teddy (who didn’t fall to the ground) do not see anything moving their way at this time
Everyone can smell the scent of 'Eau de pee' rolling off the pirate as he has apparently wet himself a second time
So, we can pick up from here, and y'all can edit your posts as needed
Sir Issac - WILL Save roll please DC 15 (If you save) Highlight to display spoiler: { Although the Darkling is dead, something in the immediate area is evil enough to make you want to either cry, or puke, or both } If you fail Highlight to display spoiler: { You are shaken, and throw up everything you've eaten in the last few days. Something here is so evil that you need to bathe in Holy Water once whatever it is, is dealt with }
The Standing Stones (just to reiterate) - there are 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 Highlight to display spoiler: { The red flowers are the Spirit Woad. You know that flower is red until picked.}
There is a shallow depression atop the hill where the darkling was sleeping. Within that hole are the remains of 4 sailors, the bones have been eaten clean and all the equipment licked clean as well. It seems as if he didn’t share this meal.
Inside the depression you find Treasure: 4 cutlass’ (treat as scimitar), 4 sets of leather armor, 4 bucklers, 4 heavy crossbows, 40 crossbow bolts, 4 belt pouches, 23 silver coins, 14 gold coins. There is a small chest with 28 gp, 13 sp, and 9 cp.
DM James: This is the official results from the battle. Please respond to this one.
Kristoph: (Stephen C) | AC:19 | CMD:21 | HP: 17/17 - Blusinda: AC:12 | HP:16/16 d20+7=8 ; Thursday January 20th, 2022 10:38:20 AM
Kristoph breathes a sigh of relief when the creature goes down. He grins and gives a thumbs up to Snark (seeming to enjoy the enlarge) and then paces towards the stone circle (not entering it). He is keeping an eye out for any surprises (Perception:1 - or maybe he can't stop looking at his oversized fists every few seconds).
Snark Riverstone (MarkB) AC13 T13 F10, CMD 11, HP 15/15 d20+7=13 ; Thursday January 20th, 2022 11:44:11 AM
(Knowledge Nature 13)
Snark looks at the fallen foe. "Huh. Mamma's boy. I wonder if his name was Grendal. Don't look forward to meetin' his mom."
Then he moves over to the remaining pirate. "If we're gonna be travelling near you, we don't really want to smell that." He uses Prestidigitation to clean up the man - he not only removes the pee, but also cleans up his clothing, so I imagine the pirate feels better now to be in clean clothes.
Once that's done, the little gnome will use Detect Magic to scan the items and the area.
Einar (StevenVdB) RAGE 2/13 - HP18/31 - AC12/7/12 - CMD 17 Thursday January 20th, 2022 11:57:59 AM
(no idea what Einar just did in the previous rounds - but baddie is down so that's good for me)
Einar stands over the fallen Darkling and sighs. Another life taken all for finding this funny flowers...
Tae-Che (Jim) HP 9/9 AC 12/12/10 CMD 13 Thursday January 20th, 2022 8:15:29 PM
Tae Che smiles inwardly as the baddie falls dead. She heads over to the standing stones, wanting to get out of the swamp as soon as possible. "Anyone know how to harvest these things?"
Isaac Harker (Justin M) HP 24/24 AC18/ T12 / FF 16 d20+6=18 ; Thursday January 20th, 2022 8:37:00 PM
Isaac stoops over feeling like his emotions are suddenly going out of control. Some presence presses down on him he's not sure weather to puke or cry. He takes a few deep breaths steading himself as best he can and tells the others "Some thing is wrong. Something still poisons the area. Be on guard gonna try and locate it" As much as he dosn't want to he concentrates trying to sense where this strange feeling is coming from. Isaac uses his detect evil ability to sense where the evil emanates from.
(I'm guessing Isaac still has his Smite?)
DM JonS: Standing Stones Thursday January 20th, 2022 9:25:16 PM
The pirate watches as his clothes and body becomes clean, "thank 'e sir. I, I've never experienced something like that, but it might have been what took me friends." he looks around, "I'm the last 'o the band. Me name is Brandon. I'd like to come with you if that's ok. Ye saved me life, and I owe you a debt."
There is enough Spirit Woad here to make five bundles. The ritual you were gathering the Woad for needs at least twenty bundles.
Detect Evil Highlight to display spoiler: { The axe the Darkling was wielding is the source of the evil. It has been roughly crafted of stone, but fey magic was used in it's creation, and the amount of blood that has been gathered and then licked from it has left a taint on the weapon }
There is what may be the beginnings of a path on the other side of the Darkling's lair ...
(Smite - yes, he still has it)
“Benni” AC 18/11/17 CMD12 HP 13/13 Onesimos (SteveK) Friday January 21st, 2022 12:34:46 AM
Onesimos nods at Brendan and soberly looks over the Darkling’s lair. ”It does look like you are the last. Selfish love and greed didn’t help. It sounds like you wish to make amends and start a new life. We can help. Shared duty fulfilled can help you love others and yourself.”
With Brendan’s help, Benni pitches in with the others to take the bales and equipment back to the long boat to hold. Coins go in pockets, and then the elf is ready to ascend to the hill and Stones.
Bless expired Channel. 3 of 6 Calm. 1 of 6
Kristoph: (Stephen C) | AC:19 | CMD:21 | HP: 17/17 - Blusinda: AC:12 | HP:16/16 Friday January 21st, 2022 4:14:51 AM
Shrinking back down Kristoph helps load the boat (if that's what the party agrees). He studies the stone circle with arms folded, frowning. "Does anyone have any ideas what this is all about"?
Gore'Thum and Teddy Treeborn (Mitch) HP -1/14AC 12/11/12 CMD 11 Gore'Thum HP 8/23AC 12/12/11 Friday January 21st, 2022 7:09:02 AM
Gore'Thum focuses on the potential threat. "Mother. Bigger one close. Should kill it. It will try to kill us" Teddy gets his point and looks about nervously. "I'd rather find it then have it find us.." he says shivering.
Snark Riverstone (MarkB) AC13 T13 F10, CMD 11, HP 15/15 Friday January 21st, 2022 1:26:31 PM "Brandon, you can stay with us for now for sure. Pirating life don't end well as you can see. Thanks for the help in that fight. Maybe you oughta hang on to your weapons for now too. And stick close to that cleric - he's alright."
Snark walks over to Teddy.
"Teddy, we're both little folk, so maybe we can watch out for each other. I know that frog of yours means well - right Gore'Thum? - but you're a capable spell caster and healer. He's a good combatant and all, but you have a lot of potential in a fight. We've been through a few scrapes together so far, and you and I have come out alright, eh? You don't need to be scared, just careful. We got this."
Snark once again will use Detect Magic to scan the items and the area. Is the axe actually magic? How about those monoliths? The flowers? The items we found? Anything on the tall, ugly dead guy?
He will also help pick the plants once he knows about the items. And once we've scrounged up the flowers, we'll follow that path looking for magic as we go.
Isaac Harker (Justin M) HP 24/24 AC18/ T12 / FF 16 d20+9=20 ; Friday January 21st, 2022 7:58:01 PM
Isaac points at the axe. "It's coming from that axe. Bood, a lot of blood has stained and tainted the magic of the axe. I think the magic its enchanted with might come from fey but whatever that darkling did has permanently scared it . We need to either find a way to purify it or destroy it." Isaac wrack his brain for how they can either destroy such a tainted artifact or purify it. "Snark, Teddy, Kristoph any of you know anything about fey or magical stuff?"
Know religion:(20)
DM JonS: Standing Stones Friday January 21st, 2022 9:16:04 PM
So after cleaning up the Darkling's burrow, and allowing Brandon to reclaim his weapons, Issac ponders the axe ...
Know: Religion: The Axe Highlight to display spoiler: { There are two options that Issac can think of: A) As the axe was crafted by a Fey, it can only be destroyed by one; or; B) A High ranking cleric would need to perform a purification ritual on it. Such a ritual would take time and energy to complete. }
Know: Religion: Standing Stones Highlight to display spoiler: { Many such places exist in the World. Most were associated with Older Religions (Pagan), others, are tied to Druidic Circles. That these have lost their "power" or "consecratedness," could mean that whoever worshipped here stopped visiting and praying, or, that something caused such a holy place to become unholy. }
Detect Magic: Highlight to display spoiler: { Yes, at some point the Standing Stones and the area around it were magical, you can see very dim markings on the stones. The axe is magical, both as an enchanted weapon, and that magic was used in the creation of the weapon. Outside of those two things, nothing else glows within your line of sight }
Once everything is loaded into the boat, and Brandon has his weapons settled again on his belt, he looks around at the party, "I know why my associates and I were out here, what are all of you doing out here, and why did we bundle up those plants?"
Are you also taking the trees and honey with you back to town, should Mother not eat you all ... hmmm, smoked adventurer, bbq adventurer, broiled adventurer, drool drool drool
Einar (StevenVdB) - HP27/27 - AC18/13/15 - CMD 18 d3=2 ; d20+6=12 ; d20+5=8 ; Saturday January 22nd, 2022 9:11:20 AM
Einar resets to normal size and no longer rages. He looks around to see any traces of the Darkling's mother and for the rest he helps gathering the Woad (Know nature 12 / perception 8)
“Benni” AC 18/11/17 CMD12 HP 13/13 Onesimos (SteveK) Saturday January 22nd, 2022 11:27:08 AM
Onesimos settles himself. They certainly take the honey, but the elf is still hoping they may have some rescued hunters in the boats for the return trip.
The evil axe weapon he doesn’t know, and let’s the Paladin decide.
Benni shrugs his shoulders as if setting a burden. Time to deal with ‘Mother’…
…. Channel. 3 of 6 Calm. 1 of 6
Gore'Thum and Teddy Treeborn (Mitch) HP -1/14AC 12/11/12 CMD 11 Gore'Thum HP 8/23AC 12/12/11 Sunday January 23rd, 2022 11:17:12 AM
Gore"Thum explains their mission. "People from town. Come here for supplies. Missing. We find, we get supplies. Suspect mother and cub culprits."
“Benni” AC 18/11/17 CMD12 HP 13/13 Onesimos (SteveK) Sunday January 23rd, 2022 4:15:44 PM
Ooc: can the frog speak Common? Or is that just what Gore is saying to Teddy? I’m assuming the latter?
Ooc: is Teddy really at -1 Hp???
Tae-Che (Jim) HP 9/9 AC 12/12/10 CMD 13 Sunday January 23rd, 2022 8:49:57 PM
Tae Che stands around near everyone else listening to the conversations and the possible actions.
Tae-Che (Jim) HP 9/9 AC 12/12/10 CMD 13 Sunday January 23rd, 2022 8:54:14 PM
Tae Che stands around near everyone else listening to the conversations and the possible actions.
Snark Riverstone (MarkB) AC13 T13 F10, CMD 11, HP 15/15 Monday January 24th, 2022 12:29:42 AM "Like our terse toad said, folks from the town came out here lookin' for these flowers. They use 'em in some ritual or something. Anyway, only one made it back. We came out to see if we can find the missing folks."
"Lets go take a look at them stones before we shove off. They got a dim magic about 'em, and there's some marking on them."
Are there any tree saplings we can take with us?
Kristoph: (Stephen C) | AC:19 | CMD:21 | HP: 17/17 - Blusinda: AC:12 | HP:16/16 d20+7=12 ; Monday January 24th, 2022 10:30:48 AM
Kristoph keeps watch
Perception: 12
DM JonS: Barrow Hill d100=46 ; Monday January 24th, 2022 6:03:14 PM
There is a well-worn trail from the Standing Stones heading deeper into the swamp. The ground here is firmer, and there is less open water. Within an hour of walking, the path leads you to an open area, where you find a large burial mound with Spirit Woad growing all over it. Unfortunately, most of the blossoms have already been harvested. It also looks like the darkling from before has been here and dug through one side of the mound and dragged out whatever it could find within. Towering over the mound is an ancient oak tree that looks to be rotting from within.
That sense of dread returns. While the actual temperature is in the mid 40's, and it's partly cloudy, the misty rain is still prevalent, and something is wrapping each of you in a cold grasp.
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.}
Inside the mound, something moves about as evil green eyes glow in the darkness.
OOC: I have to run some errands, but will make a map as soon as I can, now that I know how to link them
Einar (StevenVdB) - HP27/27 - AC18/13/15 - CMD 18 d20+6=26 ; Monday January 24th, 2022 6:28:01 PM
Einar trots along until they come to the burial mound... knowing there might be more evil in this swamp he does not allow the cold to affect him. He points his blade at the green eyes...
"Come out come out wherever you are..." he whispers.
Tae-Che (Jim) HP 9/9 AC 12/12/10 CMD 13 d20=12 ; Monday January 24th, 2022 9:40:03 PM
Tae Che shivers from the cold, the first time it appears to have affected her. She stands back from the burial mound holding her weapon in a defensive stance.
“Benni” AC 18/11/17 CMD12 HP 13/13 Onesimos (SteveK) d20+4=10 ; d6+2=4 ; Tuesday January 25th, 2022 12:29:25 AM
Onesimos feels the dread and general miasma of the swamp sucking vitality, but the green-eyes monster within the side of the mound is too close to ignore.
Benni delays to see if there is a melee warrior who needs his Touch, and will remove the Fatigue from the first person in order who fails the Fort Save. (Kristoph, Issac, Snark, Teddy, Tae-Che)
“ Tae-Che, it is time for one of your famous Color Sprays. Kristoph and Issac, I recommend you attack in concert with Einar.”
….. Fort 10 fail Fatigue. -2 Str and Dex. No run or charge.
Delay Action to Calm Touch one companion. 4hp non-lethal heal and remove fatigue, sickness, and shaken conditions.
Channel. 3 of 6 Calming. 2 of 6
Gore'Thum and Teddy Treeborn (Mitch) HP -1/14AC 12/11/12 CMD 11 Gore'Thum HP 8/23AC 12/12/11 d20=14 ; d20=5 ; Tuesday January 25th, 2022 6:13:09 AM
Teddy makes his save but Gore'Thum does not. They book look about warily. Well more trembling in terror since that's Teddy's natural state and Gore'Thum failed his save.
Snark Riverstone (MarkB) AC13 T13 F10, CMD 11, HP 15/15 d20+3=4 ; Tuesday January 25th, 2022 11:30:55 AM
Snark feels a bit drained by the cold and evil of this place (failed save - fatigued.)
He whips out his wand and casts Enlarge on Einar. Then he back up a bit.
He pitches his voice as low and as loud as his little gnome body will let him (which is probably not much) and shouts, "HEY MOM. I BROUGHT HOME SOME FRIENDS! HOW ABOUT WE DON'T EAT 'EM THIS TIME?"
….. Bless. All PCs get +1 to attack and save vs fear
Einar (StevenVdB) - HP27/27 - AC18/13/15 - CMD 18 Tuesday January 25th, 2022 5:54:13 PM
The barbarian waits to see what will happen next...
Isaac Harker (Justin M) HP 24/24 AC18/ T12 / FF 16 d20+8=17 ; d20+2=4 ; Tuesday January 25th, 2022 5:58:01 PM
Isaac leaves the axe alone for now he tells the others that unless they can find another fey to break the curse or destroy it only a highly powerful cleric could remove the curse .But since they have neither for now he leaves it alone. - Isaac shakes off whatever the strange feeling is as he enters the Barrow hill area."I guess they planted that tree to "guard" whatever is in there. Teddy is their some way to re bless this area?" Isaac still has his sword drawn ready to fight.
Fort(17) Initiative (4)
DM JonS: Barrow Hill d20=18 ; d6+4=8 ; Tuesday January 25th, 2022 7:01:59 PM
The party array's themselves in front of the barrow mound. Once Snark yells out, a low rumbling laugh can be heard coming from the opening. The eyes gleam brightly as a ray of sickly black and yellow slams into Einar's chest
Fort Save DC 15 on Fail Highlight to display spoiler: {The ray slams into your chest, making you physically ill, and leaves you feeling weak, you lose 8 points of Strength from the attack. }
Fort Save DC 15 on Save Highlight to display spoiler: {The ray slams into your chest, making you physically ill, and leaves you feeling weak, you lose 4 points of Strength from the attack. }
The creature laughs louder and taunts back, "Eat your skin, crunch your bones, make a necklace from your toes!"
Tae-Che (Jim) HP 9/9 AC 12/12/10 CMD 13 Tuesday January 25th, 2022 10:10:54 PM
Tae Che stands her ground as she sees the sickly rays strike her companion. She moves diagonally ten feet to the left and forward to get out of line of sight of the creature. (Wasn't able to move star denoting character) She will cast her Color Spray once the creature is within range.
“Benni” AC 18/11/17 CMD12 HP 13/13 Onesimos (SteveK) Wednesday January 26th, 2022 12:32:15 AM
Onesimos winces as the Ray strikes Einar. ”I don’t think ‘Mother’ is going to listen to you, Snark. Anyone versed in Spellcraft to know what was that Ray? And be careful: she may be the one that created the Darkling!”
The brown-haired elf pauses a moment, and considers if the Darkling matched the description of any of the Spirit Woad hunters. If the axe came from the barrow and the hunters were the ones who dug in to the side which freed the monster…
Benni gets back to business. And business is staying alive. He touches Einar, making it more difficult for more rays to strike the barbarian.
……. Cast Shield of Faith. +2 AC for all attacks for Einar
Bless (from Kristoph). +1 attacks
Channel. 3 of 6 Calming. 2 of 6 (Last Round would have affected Tae-Che since everyone else on the list saved)
Einar (StevenVdB) RAGE 0/13 - HP31/31 - AC16/11/14 - CMD 17 d20+6=19 ; d20+7=21 ; 2d6+7=13 ; Wednesday January 26th, 2022 3:38:18 AM
(FORT save 19 - success)
When the ray hits Einar he immediately feels physically ill... he's able to shrug of part of the negative effect but still he feels weaker than ever... (please state duration of the effect - guessing this is kind of a Ray of enfeeblement so that last 1 round but that 1d6+4 would mean we're dealing with a CL 8 opponent making the effect last 9 turns?!)
Enlarged again Einar rages negating the sickening spell... he's weaker but still holds a punch. There's no holding back now... he feels Benni's shield around him and so he steps up to this sneaky opponent. Again the 10ft reach is good enough to take a swing...
Hits AC21 - damage 13HP
Gore'Thum and Teddy Treeborn (Mitch) HP -1/14AC 12/11/12 CMD 11 Gore'Thum HP 8/23AC 12/12/11 Wednesday January 26th, 2022 7:22:43 AM
Teddy considers going offensive but holds off so he can heal when it is inevitably needed. Gore'Thum moves off to the right, spreading out some in case of nasty spells. Teddy follows his lead, moving back and to the right a little.
Kristoph: (Stephen C) | AC:17 | CMD:21 | HP: 19/19 - Blusinda: AC:12 | HP:16/16 Wednesday January 26th, 2022 10:01:39 AM
Kristoph runs towards the creature but avoids being insight (can you create me a counter on the map please you forgot me?! Somewhere around T12, thanks).
Snark Riverstone (MarkB) AC13 T13 F10, CMD 11, HP 15/15 d20+9=18 ; d20+4=23 ; d6+1=6 ; d20+7=21 ; d20+7=15 ; Wednesday January 26th, 2022 5:27:11 PM
Snark's eyes go wide as the yellow ray streaks past him. (Spellcraft 18 to know what caused that. Was it a cast spell? Were there verbal components? Was it a spell-like ability? I assume the ray is no longer there.)
He moves up and casts a blob of acid at the thing. (Hits Touch AC 23 for 6 acid damage. This attack ignores any spell resistance.)
The gnome has low light vision, so perhaps he can see more than the creature's glowing eyes? (What kind of creature are we dealing with? Knowledge Nature 21, Knowledge Arcana 15.) He will share what he learns.
Tae-Che (Jim) HP 9/9 AC 12/12/10 CMD 13 d20+3=17 ; d3=1 ; d20+7=14 ; Wednesday January 26th, 2022 9:49:46 PM
Tae Che casts a Ray of Frost at the creature. She also attempts to get a good look at it to possibly determine if it is fey or not.
Isaac Harker (Justin M) HP 24/24 AC18/ T12 / FF 16 d20+9=25 ; Wednesday January 26th, 2022 10:09:18 PM
Isaac curses under his breath looks like whatever was awoken isn't interested in talking. " We need to move." Isaac starts to move to get out of the line of fire. He moves around the mound so he is no longer visible from the hole.
Is this another Darkling?: Know Religion:25
DM JonS: Barrow Hill Wednesday January 26th, 2022 10:15:34 PM OOC: I gotta ask James something before I make today's post ... something just dawned on me ...
What I can post at this point: What the party sees is a hooded humanoid figure clad in flowing robes of translucent gray over a suit of ghostly armor. Its facial features are a swirl of maddening images, fluctuating between a serene countenance and a face twisted into a grimace of horror and fear.
“Benni” AC 18/11/17 CMD12 HP 13/13 Onesimos (SteveK) d20+5=24 ; Thursday January 27th, 2022 12:17:53 AM
Onesimos tries to think on what type of undead They are seeing/describing.
…..
Know Religion. 24
Shield of Faith. +2 AC for all attacks for Einar Bless (from Kristoph). +1 attacks
Channel. 3 of 6 Calming. 2 of 6 (Last Round would have affected Tae-Che since everyone else on the list saved)
Einar (StevenVdB) RAGE 0/13 - HP31/31 - AC16/11/14 - CMD 17 Thursday January 27th, 2022 4:56:13 AM
Einar sees his blade swish through the ghostly figure wondering if it will actually hurt the creature or not... ghosts... why ghosts... they're spooky...
Gore'Thum and Teddy Treeborn (Mitch) HP -1/14AC 12/11/12 CMD 11 Gore'Thum HP 8/23AC 12/12/11 Thursday January 27th, 2022 6:20:03 AM
Teddy really hopes they get lucky and kill this thing quickly like they did with the smaller one.
Barrow Hill
DM JonS: Barrow Hill d20+7=8 ; d6=6 ; Thursday January 27th, 2022 8:33:11 AM OOC: Ok, got clarifications
Know Religion DC 20 Highlight to display spoiler: { This is a Fear Guard. It's an incorporeal undead that uses magic and attacks with its incorporeal touch. It doesn't like direct sunlight, or really any light at all. It is resistant to non-magical attacks. It fly's/hovers more than walks. }
Know Nature DC 20 Highlight to display spoiler: { This is some form of ghostly/incorporeal undead }
Spellcraft DC 15 Highlight to display spoiler: { It was an attack from a Ray of Enfeeblement - since you heard no casting, best guess is that it's some form of at-will/racial ability }
The Ray effects last for 8 rounds - thanks for reminding me to add that
Einar swings his falchion, the strike hits but seems to pass through his enemy with little to no visible damage taken
Kristoph cast Bless and then moved up, but slightly to Einar's right - and out of line-of-sight for the enemy
Issac mentions "Move out of the way" and he does so
Snark retaliates for the ray attack on Einar with a blob of acid, which strikes the ghostly enemy and makes it screech in anger, "Little one I eats' last, starting from it toes!"
Tae Che fires off a Ray of her own, almost adding insult to injury as the ghostly form squirms in pain from the attack
Benni aids his friend by casting Shield of Faith on Einar
Teddy and GoreThum stick close to Snark
The creature steps out of its hole - as it does a feeling of fear washes over Einar and Kristoph
WILL Save DC 17 - If Fail Highlight to display spoiler: { You are panicked for 8 rounds. A panicked creature must drop anything it holds and flee at top speed from the source of its fear, as well as any other dangers it encounters, along a random path. It can’t take any other actions. In addition, the creature takes a –2 penalty on all saving throws, skill checks, and ability checks. If cornered, a panicked creature cowers and does not attack, typically using the total defense action in combat. A panicked creature can use special abilities, including spells, to flee; indeed, the creature must use such means if they are the only way to escape. }
WILL Save DC 17 - If Save Highlight to display spoiler: { You are shaken for 1 round. A shaken character takes a –2 penalty on attack rolls, saving throws, skill checks, and ability checks. }
The Fear Guard then attacks Einar but misses him horribly
This close, Einar can see that when the fear Guard stepped out of its hole, it seemed to wince at the minimal amount of light on the partly cloudy day
If I missed anything please let me know
Snark Riverstone (MarkB) AC13 T13 F10, CMD 11, HP 15/15 d20+6=21 ; d20+4=17 ; d6+1=3 ; Thursday January 27th, 2022 1:38:16 PM
(Will Save 21 - Oops, Snark didn't need to save.)
Snark regards the thing. "So, I don't think this thing is anyone's mom. It seems pretty bad though - some kinda incorporeal ghost or something. I can kinda see though it. And that yellow ray - that was a Ray of Enfeeblement, but a bad one. I didn't hear any spell casting, so it's probably some ability it has.
"From the looks of things, I don't think it likes the light out here."
Snark sees Einar's weapon pass through the thing. "Hey Einar - can you use that stone axe on the thing? It might be evil, but it's magic."
The little gnome scurries to one side and shoots another blob of acid at the thing. (Hits touch AC 17 for 3 more damage.)
Kristoph: (Stephen C) | AC:17 | CMD:21 | HP: 19/19 - Blusinda: AC:12 | HP:16/16 d20+7=21 ; d6=5 ; Thursday January 27th, 2022 1:46:41 PM
Kristoph blanches briefly when the monster appears (Will: 21 success) but feels off still Concentrating he blasts harmful (to undead) energy from himself (5 damage - Will Sv DC:10 for half).
----- Bless +1 to hit and fear Shaken (1 round) –2 penalty on attack rolls, saving throws, skill checks, and ability checks. Channels used: 1
“Benni” AC 18/11/17 CMD12 HP 13/13 Onesimos (SteveK) Thursday January 27th, 2022 2:06:43 PM
Onesimos blanches. ”Incorporal undead! Only Magic weapons or magic will hurt the monster. Here, Einar, try again!”
The elf jumps forward and briefly touches the barbarian’s blade, casting Magic Weapon!
….. Magic Weapon. Einar’s falchion is now a +1 Magic weapon
Shield of Faith. +2 AC for all attacks for Einar Bless (from Kristoph). +1 attacks
Channel. 3 of 6 Calming. 2 of 6 (Last Round would have affected Tae-Che since everyone else on the list saved)
Einar (StevenVdB) RAGE 0/13 - HP31/31 - AC16/11/14 - CMD 17 d20+2=19 ; d20+8=14 ; d20+8=27 ; d20+8=25 ; 2d6+8=19 ; Thursday January 27th, 2022 3:33:18 PM
(raging Einar can't make any knowledge skill checks)
Einar is puzzled when his blade slices through the creature without doing much damage... frustrating! Perhaps that's due to that sickening spell.
When the creature exits from it's lair Einar feels fear washing over him... shaken he feels wobbly on his feet. First the strength drain and now this...
When the Fear Guard steps up to him Einar attempts an AoO (he has a 10ft reach - hits AC14).
The idea of the stone axe isn't a bad one but Einar doesn't like axes. But when Benni enhances his blade the barbarian smiles.
"It is affraid of light... anyone can cast daylight or point that lantern on it perhaps?!"
Again he swings his blade. Hits AC27 - crit check hits AC25 - damage 38 HP - magic weapon!
Tae-Che (Jim) HP 9/9 AC 12/12/10 CMD 13 Thursday January 27th, 2022 9:17:39 PM
Tae Che casts Light on the tip of her longspear. "It's not a daylight spell, but hopefully it does something." She doesn't move at all.
DM JonS: Barrow Hill Thursday January 27th, 2022 10:55:04 PM
Snark moves and casts another acid blob at the fear Guard, which makes it snarl at the gnome
Tae Che casts light at the end of her spear.
Benni "blesses" Einar's falchion, making it magical for a short time
Einar, still raging, and with a "now" magical weapon, cuts the Fear Guard in half. The scream the monster gives out is like nails on a chalkboard as it dissipates into the air ... some of the dread the party had been feeling lifts as the monster is destroyed.
Once the noise is gone, Brandon murmur's "Saints preserve us," whoever is closest to him, smells urine again
Looking into the creature's lair the following items are found:
A gold key worth 20gp - KS: Local DC 20 Highlight to display spoiler: { this is a key to the Abbey close to the city. }
A cunningly crafted wooden longsword - KS: Arcane DC 20, or Detect Magic spell Highlight to display spoiler: { This sword is magical in nature, the wood itself having been enchanted with an ironwood spell, it also seems to have another kind of property, something to do with metal }
A small chest with 100 gp in loose coins and a stack of 40 silver bars (each bar = 20sp, so total 800 sp.)
A vial with golden liquid - KS: Arcane DC 20, or Detect Magic spell Highlight to display spoiler: { Potion of Cure Light Wounds created by a 5th level cleric (D8+3) }
The woad in the area, KS: Nature DC 15 Highlight to display spoiler: { The blossoms have been eaten, as evidenced by the teeth marks on each stalk, and not harvested }
The tree on top of the mound, KS: Nature DC 20 Highlight to display spoiler: { The ancient oak tree is blighted and tainted the woad at this location. It’ll need to be properly cleaned before it can be used in any ceremonies. }
“Benni” AC 18/11/17 CMD12 HP 13/13 Onesimos (SteveK) Friday January 28th, 2022 12:12:22 AM
Onesimos hears about the light and belatedly remembers *he* is the one holding the lantern. ”Why didn’t I think…”, and then Einar’s tremendous blow ends the undead horror.
Still wincing at the screeching sound of the FearGuard’s passing, Benni looks on the treasures with curiosity, but no Knowledgeable understanding. ”800 silver you say? That’s the same as 80gp, which will be a nice reward. But I wonder if any of the objects are from our missing hunters?”
Belatedly, he turns the lantern on the barrow hole to see if it reveals anything…
DM JonS: Barrow Hill Friday January 28th, 2022 12:53:52 AM OOC: Ok, am I putting too much info into the posts, or not enough? This is weird sometimes for me trying to figure out if I just overload the information, or hold some back ... criticisms are welcome
Isaac Harker (Justin M) HP 24/24 AC18/ T12 / FF 16 Friday January 28th, 2022 4:22:30 AM
Isaac sheathes his blade after the fight He feels like he hasn't contributed much to any fight so far and hopes that will change as time goes on. He helps haul whatever need to be hauled. He concentrates trying to detect any evil auras in the treasure pile. "Weird was this stuff buried here or brought here by the creature?" he mutters.
Kristoph: (Stephen C) | AC:17 | CMD:21 | HP: 19/19 - Blusinda: AC:12 | HP:16/16 Friday January 28th, 2022 5:49:07 AM
Kristoph breathes a sign of relief "Fine blow Einar!".
Gore'Thum and Teddy Treeborn (Mitch) HP -1/14AC 12/11/12 CMD 11 Gore'Thum HP 8/23AC 12/12/11 Friday January 28th, 2022 6:55:49 AM
(Every DM does things their own way, but if you aren't sure if you're putting enough or putting to much look at some other boards to see how they make posts)
Gore'Thum is surprised but pleased that the fight ended swiftly. Teddy looks about nervously. "Is it over? That seemed to easy. It isn't faking is it?"
Snark Riverstone (MarkB) AC13 T13 F10, CMD 11, HP 15/15 d20+7=26 ; d20+7=15 ; d20+7=14 ; d20+7=27 ; d20+6=26 ; Friday January 28th, 2022 11:48:46 AM
(OOC for the DM - Nope, you're not putting too much in your DM posts. I think they're great! Keep it up!)
"Hey, good job to everyone. Having everyone pokin' at that thing kept it from taking out just one of us. Not sure Einar woulda been able to cut the thing in half if not fer Benni makin' his sword magical. And speaking of magical..." Snark willl cast Detect Magic on stuff here - the items, the barrows, the crypts, the plants.
"Lemme see that key. Hmm, I think I heard something about this in town. This is a key to the Abbey close to the Heranmar. Wonder why it's here?"
Snark looks over the woad and the tree here. "This woads been eaten, not picked. See them teeth marks? I wonder what eats this woad stuff?"
"And that old oak tree there is blighted and has tainted the woad here. The woad will need to be properly cleaned before it can be used in any ceremonies."
The little herbalist will taste a missed flower himself to see if it seems acrid or nasty (poisonous) and then spit out what he tasted without swallowing any. (Profession Herbalist 26)
Einar (StevenVdB) RAGE 0/13 - HP31/31 - AC16/11/14 - CMD 17 Friday January 28th, 2022 12:02:47 PM
Einar hisses as the creature is destroyed... still enlarged he turns around at looks down on Benni...
"Now THAT my friend was THE most PERFECT spell and timing. Snark is right. It would not have been this easy without your magic."
As the rage drops Einar feels fatigued again. All the more given the gloomy setting of the swamp...
"Can we finally get what we came here to find and then leave this dreaded place??"
(OoC @ DM JonS - I like your DM posts. It's fun to have much detail. IMHO the only risk of putting in too much in your posts is that they will take you a lot longer to write and when you continuously do that you're going to burn yourself. Look for a nice 'in between'. The only thing I find more important over very detailed posts is to make sure that you have mentioned every player in every DM post. Players like it when you as a DM have read their post and took action on it. I speak for myself as a player and myself as a DM also)
DM JonS: Monument Graves Friday January 28th, 2022 10:36:51 PM
Entering the Fear Guard's domain, it is easy to see that it dug into this mound, and may have been part of what happened to tree as roots form most of the ceiling. The treasure seems randomly placed in the lair.
The potion bottle glows, and its easily discernable that it's a healing potion of some flavor.
The wooden sword as well glows magic. The sword emanates both transmutation and universal magics. While not sharp, it does fit and feels good in the hand.
Wandering around the mound, and on top to examine the tree, the party spots a collection of monument graves from the top of the barrow mound. When you descend from the mound it’s but a short journey to the gravesite beyond.
Almost a hundred small stone buildings stand here, some half-flooded by water, others nearly tipping over in the soft soil, and still more on dry ground. Atop the largest of them is a humanoid creature with the legs of a bald goat and a completely hairless body.
It looks at the party with it’s horned head and a sinister expression on it's face.
Perception DC 15 Highlight to display spoiler: {Whatever this thing is, it’s clearly diseased.}
KS: Nature DC 15 Highlight to display spoiler: {It’s a forlarren, but appears to be amphibious since it has gills.}
Kristoph: (Stephen C) | AC:17 | CMD:21 | HP: 19/19 - Blusinda: AC:12 | HP:16/16 d20+7=15 ; Saturday January 29th, 2022 12:47:22 AM "Whatever this thing is, it’s clearly diseased, I'd stay back"! Kristoph notes.
--- Perception:15
“Benni” AC 18/11/17 CMD12 HP 13/13 Onesimos (SteveK) Saturday January 29th, 2022 1:39:38 PM
Onesimos blushes at Einar and Snark’s fulsome praise. He attempts to redirect the conversation. ”We all did our part. It takes a community after all!”
The elf pays close attention to Kristoph’s warning and the cause of the Spirit Woad’s harvesting. ”Maybe it was the sheep we encountered, but maybe there is another monster about. Be careful, my friends!”
Einar (StevenVdB) - HP27/27 - AC18/13/16 - CMD 15 d20+5=17 ; d20+6=14 ; d20+6=26 ; d20+6=17 ; 2d6+5=13 ; Sunday January 30th, 2022 12:48:53 PM
Status Einar : - Enlarged - Ray of Enfeeblement : 6 more rounds (total 8 rounds) - Rage : 9 more rounds available today (total 13/day)
Einar nods as Kristoph mentions the creature is diseased (Perception 17) but he's unable to identify it. The barbarian still holds his blade but is reluctant to go near not knowing what it is.
Einar keeps his attack or an AoO readied should the creature decide to fight... HITS AC26 - nat 20 - Crit check AC17 - Damage 26
Tae-Che (Jim) HP 9/9 AC 12/12/10 CMD 13 d20+2=9 ; d20+7=8 ; Sunday January 30th, 2022 6:53:28 PM
Tae Che stands staring at the creature atop the building. She doesn't recognize anything wrong or different. [Perception: 9; Know: Nature: 8]
Gore'Thum and Teddy Treeborn (Mitch) HP -1/14AC 12/11/12 CMD 11 Gore'Thum HP 8/23AC 12/12/11 Sunday January 30th, 2022 7:34:36 PM
Teddy wilts. "I thought we were done, why'd there have to be another monster?" he wines.
Isaac Harker (Justin M) HP 24/24 AC18/ T12 / FF 16 Sunday January 30th, 2022 9:16:22 PM
Isaac before following the patth places the cursed are in a empty bag and throws it in the boat. We'll need to have both the preists and druids look at that thing. Walking along the path as they come in view of the water logged graveyard and the storage goat like creature he draws his blade. "Hey Teddy is that the water fey we saw prints of earlier?" He tries to detect evil on the area trying to see if the creature is evil in nature.
Ooc: the only criticism I have is when we get in a fight i would like a map of some kind.
Snark Riverstone (MarkB) AC13 T13 F10, CMD 11, HP 15/15 d20+8=17 ; d20+7=21 ; Monday January 31st, 2022 12:41:46 AM
(Perception 17, Knowledge Nature 21)
Snark regards this new creature from afar and warns his friends in a low voice, "Yep, that thing's diseased alright. It's a Forlarren, offspring of a fey and a demon. This one's got gills though, so maybe it's mom was a nixie."
As we get a bit closer, Snark says in a stronger voice to the creature, "Greetings. What's your name and what is this place? So far everything out here's tried to kill us. What about you, are you going to try to kill us too? 'Cause I gotta tell ya, it didn't go well for all them others."
Snark draws his wand and grabs a scroll in his pocket, ready for another attack.
Monument Graves
DM JamesM: Map - Impending Doom Monday January 31st, 2022 10:45:09 AM "Whatever this thing is, it’s clearly diseased, I'd stay back"! Kristoph noted.
”Maybe it was the sheep we encountered, but maybe there is another monster about. Be careful, my friends!” Benni warned.
Einar still held his blade but was reluctant to go near the creature not knowing what it was.
Tae-Che didn't recognize anything wrong or different about the area.
"I thought we were done, why'd there have to be another monster?" Teddy whined.
Issac stowed some items on the boat, when he returned he asked. "Hey Teddy is that the water fey we saw prints of earlier?" Issac tried to determine if the creature was evil but it was too far away.
Snark acknowledged that the creature was a Forlarren and suggested it might have come from a nixie. He called to it across the distance. " Greetings. What's your name and what is this place? So far everything out here's tried to kill us. What about you, are you going to try to kill us too? 'Cause I gotta tell ya, it didn't go well for all them others."
Snark drew his wand and grabbed a scroll.
Though sunlight fell onto the stone monuments and reflected off the water through the trees at the edges of the graveyard that sense of foreboding couldn't be shaken. In the near distance you could see a wall of fog quickly rushing over the swampland towards you.
Perception DC 15 or Survival DC 15 Highlight to display spoiler: { The weather seems to be turning cold once more and that fog bank rapidly approaching is a side effect of the cold front. You estimate you have about 2 minutes before the fog is upon you.}
Teddy Highlight to display spoiler: {Teddy looked at the feet of the creature and decided that yes, this could be the same creature that made the tracks Issac was referring to.}
"The woad was good. Made me strong. Better than before. You'll see once you eat it. The Dark one will show you." The goat-like creature called to you over the distance, not really answering the question posed to it.
As you stood there surveying the area you can see that the hundreds of small crypts and monuments here equate to a maze of sorts. With the soft ground and obstacles in the maze it's going to be hard to move about. Line of sight to the diseased creature was at least 240' from the small hill the heroes were standing upon. As they watched the beast hopped down from it's perch and vanished behind a small stone structure.
DM James: Consider the ground in this area to be difficult terrain. Movement is halved, and no charging. See Map. The black areas on the map are either a group of structures or a single structure. You can move through them but suffer a 1/4 movement penalty.
DM James: Edit distance to Forlarren
Kristoph: (Stephen C) | AC:17 | CMD:21 | HP: 19/19 - Blusinda: AC:12 | HP:16/16 d20+3=18 ; Monday January 31st, 2022 2:23:54 PM "Don't like the look of that fog! I think we have about 2 minutes before it's upon us! We will end up separated if we aren't careful. We need a plan!
---- Survival: 18
Snark Riverstone (MarkB) AC13 T13 F10, CMD 11, HP 15/15 d20+8=14 ; Monday January 31st, 2022 6:54:35 PM
(Perception 14)
Snark hollers at the disappeared creature. "HEY GOATBOY. WE'RE LOOKIN FOR SOME MISSING TOWNSFOLK. THEY CAME OUT HERE COLLECTING WOAD - YOU SEEN EM? AND WHERE CAN WE FIND THIS DARK ONE SO WE CAN TALK TO IT?"
Then he says to his friends, "Yeah, the woad made him better....more like, the woad messed him up, judging from the looks of him and the looks of those mangy animals we fought. Yech!
"Seems to me the rest of them woad hunters must be dead or we'd have heard from 'em or seen some tracks and camping spots. I say we collect what woad we can and get the heck outta here."
------------------------------------------ OOC: Not sure where the woad is on the map.
How does the DM want to handle movement through here? Round by round across a couple hundred feet will be tedious. How about a party order with us roped up so no one sinks and we stick to the trail until we've collected enough woad. How's this:
Einar Isaac Snark Tae Che Benni Teddy Gore'Thum Kristoph
Attacks could come from front, side or rear through this maze.
Tae-Che (Jim) HP 9/9 AC 12/12/10 CMD 13 d20+2=5 ; Monday January 31st, 2022 9:30:46 PM
Tae Che likes the idea of the marching order, not sure if she wants to be tied to others, though. She notices the fog rolling in but thinks nothing of it. [Perception: 5] "Lead on then." She states.
Isaac Harker (Justin M) HP 24/24 AC18/ T12 / FF 16 d20+2=6 ; Monday January 31st, 2022 11:55:38 PM
Isaac looks out over the graveyard but doesn't see much besides the tombstones "We should be careful. No telling if it's the only thing in there. I would bet money undead have also awoken if the darling and that creature from the mound are any thing to go by."
“Benni” AC 18/11/17 CMD12 HP 13/13 Onesimos (SteveK) d20+5=6 ; Tuesday February 1st, 2022 12:17:45 AM
Onesimos notices nothing much, but the fog looks thick and Snark’s assessment seems sound.
”Im not going to forget this time”, the elf says almost to himself, and he points the strange lantern they got from the Yuletide Pirate at the fog, then follows the others.
”Get to the other side of the fog and find this Dark One, or else the swamp won’t be safe for anyone venturing in again.”
Gore'Thum and Teddy Treeborn (Mitch) HP -1/14AC 12/11/12 CMD 11 Gore'Thum HP 8/23AC 12/12/11 Tuesday February 1st, 2022 7:22:10 AM "That looks like the same creature that made the prints. I think. Maybe it's not hostile and we can get the stuff and go?" Teddy asks hopefully. Gore'Thum grunts. "Doubtful."
Einar (StevenVdB) - HP27/27 - AC18/13/16 - CMD 15 d20+5=13 ; d20+6=20 ; Tuesday February 1st, 2022 10:03:28 AM
Status Einar : - Enlarged - Ray of Enfeeblement : 6 more rounds (total 7 rounds) - Rage : 9 more rounds available today (total 13/day)
Einar looks down at Snark as the little one gives the barbarian a nudge in the back to take point... Don't forget he's still suffering from that Ray earlier? (7 more rounds if we're still running combat posts) Else the effect has dissapeared of course)
"You know I don't really like ghostly encounters do you?!"
Confident that his friends will have his back Einar cautiously starts walking between the graves. He decides to step exactly where someone before him has stepped and make his way forward cautiously.
(perception 13 / survival 20)
Snark Riverstone (MarkB) AC13 T13 F10, CMD 11, HP 15/15 Tuesday February 1st, 2022 11:25:41 AM
(OOC - it's been some time since the last battle. We explored the barrow, checked out the items, the area and the gold. Then it was a "short journey" to get here. The Enlarge spells that Snark cast out of his wand have ended.)
DM JamesM: Map - Round 1 Grave Hunt Tuesday February 1st, 2022 1:02:42 PM
DM James: Mark is correct. Just the time searching the area is enough that all durations have ended unless they are in hours. We need to do this round by round.
They looked out over the graveyard from another barrow hill to the south even as the cloud of fog rushed towards them in the distance. The graveyard itself is high ground and though soft it is not likely to contain any bogs or quicksand. As for the trail they identified it seemed to be fallen stone markers laying in the soft ground, each with identifying marks detailing who was buried below.
Perception DC 15 Highlight to display spoiler: {You hear a muffled voice in the distance calling out for help.}
Perception DC 20 Highlight to display spoiler: {The fog bank seems to be coalescing into a shape of some sort as it rushes towards you.}
The forlarren had jumped down behind a group of monuments and wasn't visible at the moment as it skulked about in the grave yard.
Snark Riverstone (MarkB) AC13 T13 F10, CMD 11, HP 15/15 d20+8=21 ; Tuesday February 1st, 2022 1:23:02 PM
(Perception 21)
"Hey - did you guys hear that? Somebody's calling for help, but I'm not sure from where." Snark tries to figure out the direction of the voice. Was it a male or female voice? Did it sound like the Forlarren? I assume it was in common?
Then he notices the fog coalescing into a shape as it comes toward us. He points at the thing. "Uh, it looks like that fog is turning into something, and so far all the somethings out here have been bad."
Not wanting to waste time the little gnome lets go of the rope we all had to hang onto and uses his wand to cast Enlarge Person on Isaac. He says to the Paladin, "You might wanna use that wooden sword. It's magic and it's as strong as steel.
(OOC: looking at that Ironwood Sword, does it look like it would at least do the same damage as a regular steel longsword?)
Kristoph tries to determine if the "heylp" is false/fake/trickery (Sense Motive: 18)
Isaac Harker (Justin M) HP 24/24 AC18/ T12 / FF 16 d20+2=12 ; Tuesday February 1st, 2022 11:26:32 PM
Isaac doesn't hear anything nor see's anything out of the ordinary at the moment. He trust the other's judgment however. "Point me in the direction where you heard it I'll check it out. Who has the sword?" He sheathes his own sword. Isaac is surprised at the sudden jump in height but quickly gets his bearings.
Ooc: Isaac didn't pick up the sword but he'll wield it if it's given to him
Snark Riverstone (MarkB) AC13 T13 F10, CMD 11, HP 15/15 Wednesday February 2nd, 2022 12:01:11 AM
Snark makes sure to give the sword to Isaac BEFORE enlarging him.
“Benni” AC 18/11/17 CMD12 HP 13/13 Onesimos (SteveK) d20+5=22 ; Wednesday February 2nd, 2022 12:15:00 AM
Onesimos nods, noticing the noise and the fog. He tries to speculate how quickly the fog will get to the graveyard, and urges his friends forward with wise advice.
” Don’t hustle, it looks difficult and everyone will want to be on guard.”
And Benni follows his own advice by moving forward, then Ready to attack if the forlarren comes from the side. ….
Move 20’ Standard action Ready to attack if attacked.
Gore'Thum and Teddy Treeborn (Mitch) HP -1/14AC 12/11/12 CMD 11 Gore'Thum HP 8/23AC 12/12/11 Wednesday February 2nd, 2022 6:59:39 AM
Teddy makes a whining noise somewhere deep in his throat and hides behind Gore'Thum before casting dancing lights towards where the fog is gathering.
Einar (StevenVdB) - HP27/27 - AC18/13/15 - CMD 18 d20+5=22 ; Wednesday February 2nd, 2022 8:10:46 AM
(Perception 22 )
Einar too hears the sound and sees the figure forming in the mist. Mist and strange figures forming in it never go well together...
Hiding behind his blade Einar steadily strides forward.
DM JamesM: Map - Round 2 Grave Hunt Wednesday February 2nd, 2022 8:52:39 AM Snark asked if anyone else heard the call for help. He also noted that the fog bank was taking the shape of something. He suggests that the paladin use the magic wooden sword. After he hands the sword to Issac he uses his wand of enlarge to embiggen the Paladin.
Kristoph acknowledged that he heard the call for help as well and agreed that the fog cloud changing shape didn't seem good.
Issac though he heard nothing asked to be pointed in the direction of the voice as he reaches for the wooden blade to get it from Snark.
Benni advises that they move carefully on the soft ground and try not to run.
Teddy hides behind Gore'Thum and casts dancing lights as far out into the grave yard as possible. They end up dancing about fifty feet beyond the land bridge around a group of monuments.
Einar noted everything and moved forward cautiously.
The ground was glistening with moisture as a cold breeze blew from the north as it whistled through the tombstones and crypts. Those that stepped from the path of fallen stones could see that the ground was soft indeed and should one try to run on it turning or stopping would likely leave one prone as the ground slipped out from beneath them.
Across the the graveyard you see the Forlarren's head pop out as it darted from one stone to another.
KS: Local DC 15 Highlight to display spoiler: {You've heard that spirits inhabit this swamp, ones older that what might only recently have been occurring.}
Perception DC 15 Highlight to display spoiler: {The calls continued, but the source of the voice only seemed to be somewhere in the distance to the right.}
Perception DC 20 Highlight to display spoiler: {A face seems to be forming along the leading edge of the cloud. You can see a mouth and nose taking shape.}
Issac Highlight to display spoiler: {can still not detect any evil in front of them. Whatever is out there is too far away for him to detect it's aura, however the rotten tree to the west is a right evil object.}
Tae Che Highlight to display spoiler: { could feel the cooling clouds coming as the mist in the heavens was starting to blot out the sun's harsh rays.}
DM James: Don't forget to move your PCs on the map or in your post say you are moving and give the coordinate. (i.e. Snark is moving to AD21). You really don't want the DM moving your PC. :) Also for plot reasons I've decided that the graveyard is adjacent to the Barrow Hill. The hill the PCs are standing on is the one they fought fear guard on. The "F" on the map is the last known location of the Forlarren.
Snark Riverstone (MarkB) AC13 T13 F10, CMD 11, HP 15/15 d20+7=20 ; d20+8=25 ; Wednesday February 2nd, 2022 12:32:21 PM
(Knowledge Local 20, Perception 25. I assume "to the right" means to the north)
"The voice calling for help seems to be coming from up ahead (north).
"In town I heard that the spirits in this place are old, much older than what's been happening recently. There's a face forming in that fog - maybe it's one of 'em."
He yells at the fog face, "HEY FOGMAN. WE'RE HERE TO RESCUE SOMEONE. CAN YOU HELP US?"
"Yeah, I don't actually expect it to help us, but it's worth a try."
Expecting his friends will catch up and knowing he's the slowest in the group, the little gnome runs forward (triple move).
Isaac Harker (Justin M) HP 24/24 AC18/ T12 / FF 16 d20+2=15 ; d20+2=11 ; Wednesday February 2nd, 2022 9:56:39 PM
Isaac tells the other the rotten tree to the west is corrupted like the axe. "We should try and get this over with soon." He follows Snark into the graveyard walking 60 ft forward. He does hear like cries but it seems to be coming from the right (south) of him. Perception (15) Know: local (11)
“Benni” AC 18/11/17 CMD12 HP 13/13 Onesimos (SteveK) d20+5=8 ; Thursday February 3rd, 2022 12:23:41 AM
Onesimos has a hard time noticing anything, and is grateful for Snark’s local knowledge. He moves forward, and keeps Ready. ”The dog and sheep were very aggressive under the influence of the Spirit Woad, be careful about this Forlarren, too. When the fog rolls in, he could try to attack the back or sides of our party.”
Move 20’ behind Issac Standard. Ready to attack if attacked (swift action that comes before the opponent action)
Gore'Thum and Teddy Treeborn (Mitch) HP -1/14AC 12/11/12 CMD 11 Gore'Thum HP 8/23AC 12/12/11 Thursday February 3rd, 2022 7:14:15 AM
Gore'Thum moves to keep up with the party. Teddy quickly follows
DM JamesM: Map - Round 3 Grave Hunt d20+12=13 ; Thursday February 3rd, 2022 10:57:23 AM
DM James: Remember that this map is all messed up. You were traveling generally north which was to the right of the main road, so North remains to the right on the map and East to the right of the party as they face north. Note to self: Change that compass rose and redo these maps.
Snark told the others that the voice seemed to coming from up ahead to the north and to the east on the right. In an inspired moment of seeming insanity he decided to call out to the oncoming cloud of fog as he ran forward along the path of fallen headstones.
Kristoph followed Snark.
Issac moves down from the hill and comments that the tree growing on it's west side has been corrupted much like the feystone axe. He too hears the voices to the North and East.
Benni reminds everyone that the spirit woad caused the dog and sheep to be abnormally aggressive and it's likely this forlarren is as well. He also mentions that they are running out of time as he fears that the fog will help their enemy.
Teddy and Gore'Thum move up with the others.
Einar and Tae hung back with the pirate while the others moved forward into the stand of monuments and the crypts that were there.
Einar and Tae only - Sense Motive DC 15 Highlight to display spoiler: { The pirate is about to break. All of this is too much for him. He's moments away from bolting. Whose boat might he take on the way out? He's looking east and south.}
Meanwhile the face in the cloud had taken on enough of a shape that all could see it clearly. Full lips, large round eyes and whisps of tendrils that looked like hair swept back from that beautiful ethereal image as it rushed forward towards them. At the far edges of the horizon hands started forming in the cloud as they seemed to emerge from deep sleeves of dark and unformed cloud.
The forlarren climbed up upon a crypt and stomped angrily atop it as it yelled down. "Shut up! I'll get to you later Percivan! You'll get hungry soon and I'm very patient! it finished with a seeming contradiction of it's words as it jumped behind another stone.
Snark Highlight to display spoiler: {He could swear he saw a faint smile appear on the face of the incoming cloud of death.}
Kristoph: (Stephen C) | AC:17 | CMD:21 | HP: 19/19 - Blusinda: AC:12 | HP:16/16 Thursday February 3rd, 2022 4:53:39 PM "That mist thing is still quite far away... Let's save whoever's shouting for help and get out of here as quickly as possible!"
Kristoph keeps pace with the party with Blusinda next to him.
Snark Riverstone (MarkB) AC13 T13 F10, CMD 11, HP 15/15 d20+8=20 ; Thursday February 3rd, 2022 4:57:31 PM
Snark casts Resistance on himself.
At the mention of a name, Snark says, "Percivan? That's one of the Woad Hunters we're here to save. Sounds like it's that way." Snark points to the north-east and moves that direction. He doesn't think he's the best person to be in the front, so he slows down. As he moves up, he keeps a sharp eye out for trouble. (Perception 20)
"I don't like the looks of that fog giant. He's got an evil grin. Let's get Percivan and get outta here."
"Hey Einar, Tae-Che - Grab that pirate and come with us!"
Remember, the paladin is large right now and will be for 8 more rounds.
Tae-Che (Jim) HP 9/9 AC 12/12/10 CMD 13 d20+4=16 ; Thursday February 3rd, 2022 7:19:31 PM
Before Tae Che moves down the path behind the others, she looks back at the pirate. "Hey, keep up with us and you'll be safe. Going alone only invites bad possibilities." She heads out towards the others. [Sense Motive: 16]
“Benni” AC 18/11/17 CMD12 HP 13/13 Onesimos (SteveK) Friday February 4th, 2022 12:21:22 AM
Onesimos’ eyes widen that the name is one of the Woad Hunters. ”The Forlarren talked back too. Either it’s a ventriloquist’s trick or we are not too late, Per could be up a tree or something. Keep going, but not in a reckless rush.”
……. Holding the Lantern and Shield. Move 20’ behind Issac Standard. Ready to attack if attacked (swift action that comes before the opponent action).
3 of 6 Channel 2 of 6 Calming Touch
Einar (StevenVdB) - HP27/27 - AC18/13/15 - CMD 18 d20=16 ; d20+4=20 ; Friday February 4th, 2022 3:48:44 AM
(sense motive 16)
Being momentarily frozen Einar shakes his head and notices his friends have move further between the headstones. He looks at the pirate who's clearly about to run from here...
"Steady lad... there's no where safer than here with us. A, you're unable to row that boat you're looking at on your own and B, well... you're dead if you decide to run. Either these swamp monsters will get you or I will if you decide to steal this boat. So stay close to me and you'll be just fine. " (intimidate 20)
Einar pulls the pirate along and catches up with the rest of the group at the same pace as Tae-Che.
He whispers to the others : "Hang on... hang on... hang on..."
Gore'Thum and Teddy Treeborn (Mitch) HP -1/14AC 12/11/12 CMD 11 Gore'Thum HP 8/23AC 12/12/11 Friday February 4th, 2022 7:11:49 AM
Teddy follows along nervously. Gore'Thum seems entirely unimpressed by the possible danger.
DM JamesM: Map - Round 4 Grave Hunt Friday February 4th, 2022 8:57:53 AM Kristoph reminded everyone that the bank of fog closing on them was still quite a ways away and that they should save the woad hunter quickly.
Snark recognized the name the forlarren used as that of one of the woad hunters. He pointed in the direction they should go and mentioned that the face in the cloud smiled. He turned back to call to Einar and Tae.
Tae-Che looked back at the pirate and reminded him that he'd be safer with them and then pushed forward.
Benni remarked that the forlarren spoke as well as the woad hunter and encouraged everyone to move.
Einar narrowed his stern gaze at the pirate in his best growly voice and threatened him if he tried to run. The pirate jerked along as Einar dragged him.
Teddy is nervous and Gore'Thum doesn't seem concerned at all as they both move up with the others.
Tae Highlight to display spoiler: {The pirate doesn't look convinced by her words, but he's totally afraid of Einar.}
Issac looked about uncertain as to what to do.
Sense Motive DC 30 Highlight to display spoiler: {By a stroke of exceptional luck you see the forlarren between the monuments as it glances back at the fog cloud apprehensively. }
The heroes and their enemy worked their way through the graveyard as they each weaved their way between the monuments unseen from each other. As Teddy and Gore'Thum stomped through the soft ground, the others stayed to the path, but it was Teddy and Gore that discovered something.
Teddy or Perception DC 15 Highlight to display spoiler: {Hidden behind one of the monuments is the body of Gabor. Among his equipment are 15 bundles of Spirit Woad that can be clearly seen at a distance. }
The cloud of fog continued in it's race toward the graveyard. The whistling wind was starting to turn into a low roar.
KS: Religion DC 15 Highlight to display spoiler: {The cloud like formation might be an immortal power, but the gateway downs has so many minor powers it's hard to know if it's one or just some sort of spell the forlarren has cast.}
Survival DC 15 Highlight to display spoiler: {That cloud is approaching fast enough that it might blow down those that hadn't taken shelter by the time it arrives.}
Isaac Harker (MarkB subbing) HP 24/24 AC18/ T12 / FF 16 d20+15=19 ; d20+2=21 ; d20+9=19 ; d20=20 ; Friday February 4th, 2022 7:07:05 PM
(Perception 21, Knowledge Religion 19, Survival 20. I assume the DM post means Teddy is aware of something and eveyone else needs to make a Perception roll to see it.)
Isaac strides forward, his scale mail creaking in the quiet cemetery. Even in his enlarged state, he keeps his feet on solid ground where he can (took two rounds of movement per DM's email.) He can see the fog creature's windy approach. "I'm not sure, but that fog being may be an immortal power in this place. It's coming in hard with the wind, and if we are here when it arrives we should seek shelter."
As he moves up, he sees the body and the bundles of woad behind a monument. "It looks like the body of one of the woad hunters is here, along with what he harvested. We should gather these bundles and his body before we leave, but we must find Percivan first."
"PERCIVAN. WHERE ARE YOU? WE'VE BEEN SENT FROM TOWN TO FIND YOU. PERCIVAN!"
The paladin holds his sword and shield ready as he waits for the others to catch up.
"Hold steady Teddy, let me bolster your defenses." He casts Resistance on Teddy, granting the little bear a +1 resistance bonus on saves for the next minute.
He holds his wand at the ready and returns his hand to his pocket that has a scroll.
Spells, * = cast/used: 0 (DC13): Detect Magic, Flare, Resistance, Prestidigation 1 (DC14): Mount (D), Color Spray*, Grease, Silent Image*
Abilities/Items Acid Dart (Sp) 6 - 2 used Gnome (Sp) 1/day - Dancing Lights, Ghost Sound, Prestidigitation, and Speak with Animals. Wand of Enlarge - 45 charges left
“Benni” AC 18/11/17 CMD12 HP 13/13 Onesimos (SteveK) d20+7=8 ; d20+5=7 ; Saturday February 5th, 2022 2:17:51 AM
Onesimos, not wanting to get left behind, breaks with his plan an trots up to get closer to Issac. He’s paying too much attention to his footing to notice or remember anything, but listens to his friends.
The elf continues to give advice from his point of view. ”Immortal Powers are chancy. Usually more fickle than the Woldian Pantheon but not usually evil like the rogue gods. More of the “for their own mysterious purpose” type. But just because the Forlarren doesn’t seem to like the Fog, doesn’t mean it’s on our side.”
……. Holding the Lantern and Shield. Move 40’ behind Issac
3 of 6 Channel 2 of 6 Calming Touch
Kristoph: (Stephen C) | AC:17 | CMD:21 | HP: 19/19 - Blusinda: AC:12 | HP:16/16 d20+16=30 ; Sunday February 6th, 2022 12:16:23 PM
In amidst the rushing and shouting Kristoph remains as still as an oak. It would be easy to loose his cool if he pondered the fact it's not just a creepy mist, but possibly some sort of moody demi-god about to swoop in! He concentrates on his goal and closes his eyes, as he does he mutters a prayer (casts Guidance) and then lets Fate guide him, he moves and opens his eyes and by a stroke of exceptional luck they are staring right at the forlarren. Kristoph points. "Look, it looks just as worried as we do"!
--- (OOC: I took the bait & went all in. Kristoph really just let himself move randimly - DM James if you want to move him wherever he would have needed to move to see the forlarren? That's fine with me) Sense Motive:30 (Rolled:14 + Hero Point in advance: +8, Virtue: +1, Skill: +7 = 30 exactly! Phew). ;-)
Kristoph: (Stephen C) | AC:17 | CMD:21 | HP: 19/19 - Blusinda: AC:12 | HP:16/16 Sunday February 6th, 2022 12:18:11 PM
(Sorry guidance not virtue in die roll)
Gore'Thum and Teddy Treeborn (Mitch) HP -1/14AC 12/11/12 CMD 11 Gore'Thum HP 8/23AC 12/12/11 Sunday February 6th, 2022 11:06:05 PM
Teddy leaps back and yells upon suddenly finding a corpse. Gore'Thum moves over to him quickly. "Gabor." he tells the others after he's had a chance to look.
Einar (StevenVdB) - HP27/27 - AC18/13/15 - CMD 18 d20+5=15 ; d20+6=18 ; Monday February 7th, 2022 3:20:07 AM
Einar looks back at Tae Che and the pirate. "Let's move fast... we don't want to be separated from the rest when that fog hits us."
Einar move along the trail and makes a double move (60ft total). That should be enough to catch up with the main group. He pushes the pirate along as he goes.
(perception 15 / survival 18)
DM JamesM: Map - Round 5 Grave Hunt d20+12=28 ; d20+14=27 ; d20+12=20 ; d20+2=21 ; d4=1 ; Monday February 7th, 2022 9:16:13 AM Issac advised they take shelter soon, but first they needed to collect the body and bundles of woad as he called out to Percivan.
Snark moved up next to Teddy and cast resistance on him.
Benni related some information about immortal powers and the forlarren as well as some sound advice.
Kristoph cast guidance and saw the forlarren looking back at the cloud with apprehension.
Teddy and Gore'Thum identify the corpse as that of Gabor.
Einar suggested they move fast so as not to get caught in the fog while dragging the pirate with him.
Kristoph Highlight to display spoiler: {You see the Forlarren at BB30 about seventy feet away, he climbed up onto one of the monuments and then leapt to another. AX29 about forty feet away and 10' up. Several needle like thorns sprung from it's hand and hurled them at Issac.}
Perception DC 23 Highlight to display spoiler: {You hear a scrabbling noise due north like claw on stone.You are also not surprised.}
Kristoph yelled out a warning to Issac which allowed the enlarged paladin to duck, but the attack was too quick and sudden as several thorns embedded themselves in Issac's flesh. One of the thorns wriggled and buried itself deeper into Issac's flesh.
Everyone nearby could see the forlarren standing upon a monument some 30 to 40 feet away as it readied another set of actions against the heroes.
DM James: Forlarren - Issac, Roll 23-2(Range)=21, Hit. Damage 1hp. Make a DC 15 Fort Save
Isaac Harker (MarkB subbing) HP 24/24 AC20/ T14 / FF 18 d20+2=6 ; d20+6=22 ; 2d6+6=13 ; d20+8=12 Monday February 7th, 2022 11:47:18 AM
(Perception 6)
The paladin moves up, calling on his divine connection to smite the forlarren. He strikes with the now enlarged magical wooden sword, hitting AC 22 for 13 damage (AC 20, 11 damage if the thing is not evil.)
He quickly sizes up what's happening here. "You foul creature! You would sacrifice an innocent to a fog god! It appears this is not your first sacrifice either. You shall surely die for this."
(The paladin's smite also grants him +2 to his AC against the forlarren if it is evil.)
DM James: Fort Save, Roll 12 Isaac uses a hero point to make the save.
Snark Riverstone (MarkB) AC13 T13 F10, CMD 11, HP 15/15 Monday February 7th, 2022 11:57:54 AM
Snark moves forward, slogging through one patch of mucky ground as he goes (40', double move, one square of double movement cost.)
This puts him just in range to cast Grease (Reflex DC 14) beneath the forlarren.
He yells, "Hey, Percivan! Can you come to us? Where are you?"
---------------------------- Grease - A grease spell covers a solid surface with a layer of slippery grease. Any creature in the area when the spell is cast must make a successful Reflex save or fall. A creature can walk within or through the area of grease at half normal speed with a DC 10 Acrobatics check. Failure means it can’t move that round (and must then make a Reflex save or fall), while failure by 5 or more means it falls (see the Acrobatics skill for details). Creatures that do not move on their turn do not need to make this check and are not considered flat-footed.
Kristoph: (Stephen C) | AC:17 | CMD:21 | HP: 19/19 - Blusinda: AC:12 | HP:16/16 d20+7=15 ; d20+2=8 ; Monday February 7th, 2022 5:35:37 PM
Kristoph gapes slightly at the leap he sees before remarking (as he moves): "Wow it leapt 40' and be careful it's throwing needle like thorns from it's own body". Moving to the edge of a momumemt (through a couple of difficult squares) he uses it as cover and with a graceful mini-kata he throws a fire bolt missing the Forlarren. The blue flame eerily lights up the creature for a second as it soars past...
DM James: It only leapt 10’. Last round it moved behind a monument. This round it climbed it and jumped to the next. ----- (Perception:15) Fire Bolt Used: 1 Hero Point Used: 1 (last round)
Tae-Che (Jim) HP 9/9 AC 12/12/10 CMD 13 d20+2=6 ; Monday February 7th, 2022 9:07:48 PM
[Perception: 6] Tae Che moves up with the pirate and Einar so to keep up with everyone.
Einar (StevenVdB) - HP27/27 - AC18/13/15 - CMD 18 Tuesday February 8th, 2022 3:34:07 AM "Stay..." Einar growls at the pirate.
Then he makes a double move to catch up with Isaac. He stops next to a monument taking advantage of its cover.
Gore'Thum and Teddy Treeborn (Mitch) HP -1/14AC 12/11/12 CMD 11 Gore'Thum HP 8/23AC 12/12/11 Tuesday February 8th, 2022 7:00:35 AM
Teddy moans in fear but moves closer and behind a monument. He casts dancing lights again, moving the lights to over the forlarren's position. Gore'Thum double moves closer, but has no way to reach the monster that's 10 feet up.
DM JamesM: Map - Round 6 Grave Hunt d20+8=16 ; d20+12=15 ; d20+4=6 ; d20+4=22 ; d6+1=7 ; Tuesday February 8th, 2022 9:46:19 AM Issac yelled out at the creature and condemned it to death as he swung the wooden sword.
Snark moved through the soggy ground and back onto the path. When he came into range he cast a grease spell at the forlarren.
Kristoph warned that the creature seemed to be able to leap a good distance and that it was throwing needle like thorns from it's hands. He then threw a blue flame at the creature.
Tae moved up to get closer to the fight.
Einar moved to get closer as well, but used the monuments as cover.
Teddy moaned in fear, but moved closer and cast dancing lights once more over the forlarren's position. Gore-Thum moved closer.
The wind roared as the foggy shape took form at the head of the cloud front. It was still over a minute away, but if the fog descended upon them like it seemed it might visibility would be reduced to nothing. There was also the strength of the wind as the fog drew closer. They'd need to take shelter or get blown down or possibly into one of these monuments.
Issac swung his wooden sword and struck the beast a solid blow but as soon as the blade hit the creature he clutched at his heart as a shooting pain ripped through his body. A moment later Snark cast his grease spell on the pitched roof of the monument. The forlarren planted it's feet and slid to the edge of the roof and landed easily in the moist ground. Kristoph's blue bolt shot over it's head.
Snark called out to Percivan but if there was an answer the roaring wind was obscuring it.
Perception DC 15 Highlight to display spoiler: {You can hear Percivan's response. "She'll kill me. She's crazy."}
Perception DC 20 Highlight to display spoiler: {Issac's attack didn't seem to do as much damage as it should have.}
Perception DC 25 Highlight to display spoiler: {As soon as the forlarren's feet touched the ground it looked like it healed somewhat.}
The forlarren looked as if it were barely injured as it struck at Issac from around the monument. One claw reached out and missed, but the second landed a nasty swipe across the paladin's leg. Meanwhile the rest of the heroes closed in on the creature. Teddy's lights lit up the area above the fight as the fog bank continued to close in on the heroes.
KS Religion or KS Nature DC 15 Highlight to display spoiler: {The creature seems to have DR 10/Cold Iron.}
DM James: Forlarren AC17, The creature is evil. Forlarren - Issac, Unknown attack. 7hp Snark - Forlarren, Grease DC 14, Roll 16. Success. Forlarren, Acrobatics Roll 15 Forlarren - Issac, Roll 6, 22. Miss, hit. Damage 7 hp
Damage Counter Forlarren, Damage 13? + healing?
“Benni” AC 18/11/17 CMD12 HP 13/13 Onesimos (SteveK) Tuesday February 8th, 2022 9:55:06 AM
(Last round if DM allows). Onesimos hurries forward.
(This round). Onesimos, not holding a weapon, and nearly of of spells, touches Issac, imbuing him with some extra Goodness.
……. Holding the Lantern and Shield. Move 40’ beside Issac
Touch of Good (Sp): +1 sacred bonus to attack, skills, ability, and saves for 1 round
3 of 6 Channel 2 of 6 Calming Touch 1 of 6 Touch of Good
Snark Riverstone (MarkB) AC13 T13 F10, CMD 11, HP 15/15 d20+8=17 ; Tuesday February 8th, 2022 4:17:30 PM
Snark sees Einar next to him. "Oh, there you are Einar. We kinda need your help." Snark uses his wand to make the barbarian larger (Enlarge Person.)
He hears Percivan's voice in the distance, and announces to the others. "Percivan's over in the back 40 somewhere, talking about some crazy woman tryin to kill him. We better go get that guy, but this forlarren is a problem first."
The gnome scurries forward.
----------------------------- Spells/Effects Running: Resistance (Snark 7/10), Resistance (Teddy (8/10), Enlarge Person (Isaac 5/10), Enlarge Person (Einar 10/10)
Isaac Harker (MarkB subbing) HP 21/24 AC20/ T14 / FF 18 d20+7=26 ; d20+7=18 ; 2d6+6=10 ; d6=1 d6=6 Tuesday February 8th, 2022 4:28:46 PM
(OOC to DM: If that mystery 7 points of damage was due to that failed Fort save, please note that after the DM rolled the save for the PC, the PC chose to apply a hero point to actuallly make that save instead. This was done before the last DM post this morning. Also, if he did take mystery damage, was there no awareness of where, no pain?)
Isaac winces at the pain of the creature's blow. Still, we have someone we need to save. Isaac takes a risk and moves, provoking an attack from the thing - and hopefully using up the creatures AOO for everyone else.) He also uses a swift action to heal himself for 6 damage (total damage so far - 9-6=3 I think.)
After he moves he again whacks the creature, hitting AC 26 and confirming the crit with an 18 for 20 points of damage (10 if the crit did not confirm.)
Note: Isaac is +2 on his AC against this creature if it is evil.
Kristoph: (Stephen C) | AC:17 | CMD:21 | HP: 19/19 - Blusinda: AC:12 | HP:16/16 d20+7=13 ; d20+2=21 ; d6=3 ; Tuesday February 8th, 2022 7:41:47 PM
Kristoph continues forward and hurls another firebolt. Blusinda moves the other way around using the path.
--- (Perception:13 fails) Firebolt: 21 to hit (or 17 - if firing into combat) for 3 fire damage.
Tae-Che (Jim) HP 9/9 AC 12/12/10 CMD 13 d20+2=11 ; Tuesday February 8th, 2022 9:41:20 PM
[Perception: 11] Tae Che moves up thirty feet next to Einar, now enlarged, and cast Faerie Fire over the Forlarren, hoping to assist her comrades with striking the creature. [Faerie Fire: No Save, Spell Resistance: yes; 5-foot radius burst; 2 minutes]
Kristoph: (Stephen C) | AC:17 | CMD:21 | HP: 19/19 - Blusinda: AC:12 | HP:16/16 Wednesday February 9th, 2022 3:52:42 AM
"We need to find the person shouting for help as soon as possible, somewhere north"!
Gore'Thum and Teddy Treeborn (Mitch) HP -1/14AC 12/11/12 CMD 11 Gore'Thum HP 8/23AC 12/12/11 d20=4 ; Wednesday February 9th, 2022 8:54:25 AM
With the monster so helpfully next to him Gor'Thum attacks, but even if he hits his 1d6+2 damage can't over come the enemy's defenses. Teddy considers various spells before deciding to save his last cast for healing to keep those who can damage the thing alive.
DM JamesM: Map - Round 7 Grave Hunt d20+4=5 ; d20+4=17 ; d6+1=7 ; Wednesday February 9th, 2022 9:01:20 AM Benni had been moving forward with the others as he touched Issac to help him in the battle with some special goodness.
Snark called to Einar and flashed his wand at the man. A moment later the magical device caused Einar to grow a couple of sizes larger. With his other hand he indicated that Percivan was a little further north of them and that the man was concerned about a woman trying to kill him.
Issac hurt, but the pain he'd felt a moment before hadn't been damaging as much as a surprise. Issac decided to move even though he knew he'd make himself vulnerable to the evil creature before him. As he moved he called forth a wave of healing energy to bolster him in the fight.
Kristoph moved through the soft earth easily as he hauled back his arm and threw another ball of flame.
Tae moved up to get closer to the fight and cast faerie fire on the evil fey creature.
Teddy waited as his frog friend attacked.
Issac moved east along the path, but left himself open to attack as he moved. The evil beast swiped at the paladin with an evil nasty claw but all it did was scrape against the man's armor. Once he'd re-positioned Issac used his reach and swiped at the beast again. His blow was deadly and would have killed a lesser creature as the wooden blade smacked into the beast. With the strike Issac learned two things, first this creature had some kind of resistance, second there was some kind of psychic connection between them because the Paladin felt the pain of his own strike against the forlarren.
Issac reeled in pain as the force of his own attack on the creature caused his heart to spasm. That needle thorn must have been cursed.
Kristoph threw another bit of fire. The small ball of fire splashed against the evil creature as it roared out in pain, a moment later so too did Issac. Kristoph reminded everyone that there was still someone in distress to the north.
Tae's magic erupted around the forlarren leaving the creature outlined in ghostly blue fire. It would have a hard time sneaking away or even hiding in the fog that was coming as long as it was lit so.
The forlarren rushed across the pathway even as they witnessed the burns from Kristoph's attack heal over. In a moment the creature was next to Gore'Thum and striking at it with nasty claws. Claws flashed as they rent the frogman's flesh. Gore-Thum struck back but wasn't fast enough to score a hit on the evil beast.
Perception DC 15 Highlight to display spoiler: {"Run here. She can't get to you here. I'll have the door open for you."}
DM James: Issac - Forlarren, Crit. Damage 20-DR(10)=10 hp Forlarren - Issac, Parasitic Bond, Damage 5 hp Kristoph - Forlarren, Firebolt, Damage 3 hp Forlarren - Issac, Parasitic Bond, Damage 1 hp Forlarren - Gore-Thum, Roll 17, Hit. Damage 7 hp.
Don't forget to update your PCs HP total in the subject line.
Damage Counter - AC 17, DR10/Cold Iron, Fast Healing Forlarren, Damage 13-10, 20-10,3(Fire)=Total 16, but it appears to be healing itself.
Einar (StevenVdB) - HP27/27 - AC18/13/15 - CMD 18 d20+9=26 ; 12d6+10=58 ; 2d6+10=19 ; Wednesday February 9th, 2022 10:31:51 AM
Enlarged again Einar smiles, rages and makes a go for the Forlarren. With his 10ft reach now he should easily get to it.
Hits AC26 - damage 19 (forget the 12d6 :-) )
Einar (StevenVdB) - HP27/27 - AC18/13/15 - CMD 18 Wednesday February 9th, 2022 10:32:36 AM
NOOOO OVERLAP IN POSTS... Starting writing it and then got a few calls from work and forgot finishing my post...
Isaac Harker (MarkB subbing) HP 20/24 AC20/ T14 / FF 18 d20+7=15 ; d20+7=11 ; d6=1 ; d6=1 ; d6=5 ; d20+2=12 ; Wednesday February 9th, 2022 12:02:20 PM
As the Forlarren moved out of the Paladin's range, he swings, but his attach of opportunity goes wide.
Isaac winces at the pain and he can sense that the creature has established some sort of connection with the Paladin. "Ugh. This thing is sharing it's damage with me. The shortest route to ending the connection will be ending the creature!"
The Paladin makes a 5' move toward the thing and swings. Again, his swing goes wide and he misses.
He once again heals himself for 5 points as a swift action, mitigating some of the damage he's taking.
(Perception 12)
Note: Isaac is +2 on his AC against this creature if it is evil. DM James: I adjusted Issac's AC in the subject line last week. :)
"Hey, I'm hearing voices. I just heard somebody say, 'Run here. She can't get to you here. I'll have the door open for you.' Not sure where it's comin' from, but there's more bad guys here."
Where did this voice come from? Was it far away? Was it make or female? Was it Percivan? Can the gnome or anyone else see Percivan atop that monument?
Then he focuses on the forlarren. "You know, you're giving the fey a bad name." The gnome fires an Acid Dart at the thing, hitting Touch AC 15 for 5 points of acid damage (spell-like ability that ignores spell resistance.)
After that he moves up to help out by flanking the thing, hoping to move past all this next round.
----------------------------- Spells/Effects Running: Resistance (Snark 6/10), Resistance (Teddy (7/10), Enlarge Person (Isaac 4/10), Enlarge Person (Einar 9/10)
Acid Dart (sp) - 3 used
“Benni” AC 18/11/17 CMD12 HP 13/13 Onesimos (SteveK) Wednesday February 9th, 2022 2:48:20 PM
Onesimos sees the Forlarren surrounded and the crew is sure to bring it down quickly. So he dodged around a stone and over the soft ground to get around the fight and towards the people calling for help.
……… Holding the Lantern and Shield. Move 40’ over difficult terrain towards the voices.
3 of 6 Channel 2 of 6 Calming Touch 1 of 6 Touch of Good
Tae-Che (Jim) HP 9/9 AC 12/12/10 CMD 13 d20+2=17 ; Wednesday February 9th, 2022 10:30:48 PM
[Perception: 17] Tae Che, seeing the creature is fairly surrounded, heads north to investigate the voice.
“Benni” AC 18/11/17 CMD12 HP 13/13 Onesimos (SteveK) Thursday February 10th, 2022 12:15:57 AM
Onesimos sees the Forlarren surrounded and the crew is sure to bring it down quickly. So he dodged around a stone and over the soft ground to get around the fight and towards the people calling for help.
……… Holding the Lantern and Shield. Move 40’ over difficult terrain towards the voices.
3 of 6 Channel 2 of 6 Calming Touch 1 of 6 Touch of Good
“Benni” AC 18/11/17 CMD12 HP 13/13 Onesimos (SteveK) Thursday February 10th, 2022 6:37:36 AM
Onesimos sees the Forlarren surrounded and the crew is sure to bring it down quickly. So he dodged around a stone and over the soft ground to get around the fight and towards the people calling for help.
……… Holding the Lantern and Shield. Move 40’ over difficult terrain towards the voices.
3 of 6 Channel 2 of 6 Calming Touch 1 of 6 Touch of Good
Gore'Thum and Teddy Treeborn (Mitch) HP -1/14AC 12/11/12 CMD 11 Gore'Thum HP 1/23AC 12/12/11 d8=4 ; Thursday February 10th, 2022 8:09:52 AM
Gor'Thum uses a full round action to withdraw, preventing an AoO. Teddy runs over and heals Isaac, who I think is more damaged then his header indicates? It heals 6 hp.
(Don't forget Smite Evil lets the paladin ignore enemy DR!)
Snark Riverstone (MarkB) AC13 T13 F10, CMD 11, HP 15/15 Thursday February 10th, 2022 11:02:43 AM
(Good point on the DR - I missed that in my subbing with the paladin. DM may want to add 20 more points of damage to the forlarren.)
DM JamesM: Map - Round 8 Grave Hunt d20+4=9 ; d20+4=9 ; Thursday February 10th, 2022 12:58:50 PM Einar took a swipe at the evil beast.
Issac tried to hit the creature as it moved but was unsuccessful. He felt the pain of whatever shared link they had with each successful attack on the evil beast as he moved up to strike at it again.
Snark related what he heard over the wind that voice to the north said. He tried to annoy the forlarren by insulting it as he fired an acid arrow at it.
Benni ran north.
Teddy wanted to heal his friend but unfortunately he was too far away and would need to find a way to him that didn't expose him to the evil creature.
Benni and Tae Highlight to display spoiler: {As soon as they rounded the monument he spotted Percivan inside a crypt. It looked like the gate used to access the inside of the crypt was made of cold iron and probably why the man was safe from the evil beast at his back.}
Gore-Thum backed away, but Snarks comment irritated the creature and it turned on him with it's nasty claws. Snark whether lucky or quick was able to avoid the creatures attacks. Einar smacked the evil beast on the head, but Issac paid for it as he screamed out in pain.
DM James: Mitch, Good catch on the Smite Evil, the Forlarren isn't quite as fresh as it might have been.
Snark - Forlarren, Acid Dart, Roll 15, Hit. Damage 5 hp Forlarren - Issac, Parasitic Bond, Damage 2 hp Forlarren - Issac, Parasitic Bond, Damage 10 hp (updated) Einar - Forlarren, Roll 26, HIt. Damage 19 hp Forlarren - Issac, Parasitic Bond, Damage 9 hp
Issac as taken 21 hp this round, best case he has 3 hp remaining.
Damage Counter - AC 17, DR10/Cold Iron, Fast Healing Forlarren, Damage 13, 20,3(Fire)+19+5(Acid)=Total 60 It appears to be healing itself and transferring some of it's injuries to Issac.
We have some significant movement on the map that hasn't been made. Gore-Thum and Tae. If the map hasn't been updated by the next DM post I'll assume the positions on the map. If you have trouble with the map state what coordinate you're PC moved to and someone will make that change for you.
Remember that you cannot run or charge through difficult terrain.
Kristoph: (Stephen C) | AC:17 | CMD:21 | HP: 19/19 - Blusinda: AC:12 | HP:16/16 d20+2=4 ; d20+2=14 ; Thursday February 10th, 2022 3:21:25 PM
Blusinda approaches the Forlarren and snaps at its heels (to hit: 4) Kristoph throws another firebolt (10 including into combat -4)
"Anyone injured come nearer to me and I will channel"!
“Benni” AC 18/11/17 CMD12 HP 13/13 Onesimos (SteveK) d6=5 ; Thursday February 10th, 2022 5:09:02 PM
Onesimos moves closer to Pervican. ”Hold on Prervican, just little bit longer!”
The cleric judges he is at a good distance and releases a burst of positive energy, healing everyone within 30’ of 5 hit points. (This should include Issac, bluesinda, and Snark, but NOT the Forlarren!)
…… Holding the Lantern and Shield. Move 20’ over path towards Pervican.
4 of 6 Channel 2 of 6 Calming Touch 1 of 6 Touch of Good
Isaac Harker (MarkB subbing) HP 10/24 AC20/ T14 / FF 18 d6=6 d20+8=14 Thursday February 10th, 2022 6:30:59 PM
(Wow. That was a lot of damage all at once. 21 points of damage reduce the paladin to -1. He may soon be dead while the rest of the party wails on the forlarren.)
Isaac takes 21 points of damage and falls onto the soft earth. Which is strange, because as far as anyone can tell, he was never attacked this round.
However, he rises with Benni's healing. He uses his last swift action healing to Lay Hands on himself for 6 more points.
By now, he has surmised what is going on.
"Ugh. I seem to be taking damage whenever this foul creature does. We need to kill it though to make it stop."
Isaac swings again but misses the thing.
Snark Riverstone (MarkB) AC13 T13 F10, CMD 11, HP 15/15 d20+1=10 ; Thursday February 10th, 2022 6:44:50 PM
Snark can see that his help might tip the scales here. He pokes his staff at the forlarren to distract the thing as Isaac swings. (Hits AC 10, successful aid another allowing Isaac's attack to succeed!)
Then he moves back (provoking an AOO) into the mushy ground toward Percivan.
Isaac Harker (MarkB subbing) HP 10/24 AC20/ T14 / FF 18 2d6+5=14 ; Thursday February 10th, 2022 6:47:56 PM
With the gnome's aid, Isaac's strike hits! Isaac does 14 points of damage, knowing he will pay for the blow at the same time. He winces in pain as he hits.
Einar (StevenVdB) - HP27/27 - AC18/13/15 - CMD 18 d20+9=24 ; 2d6+10=18 ; Friday February 11th, 2022 3:29:36 AM
During his rage Einar doesn't reason too well... not sure if he understands Isaac is also hurt whenever the Forlarren gets hurt... oblivious to this he makes a full attack on the creature.
Hits AC24 - damage 18 HP
Gore'Thum and Teddy Treeborn (Mitch) HP -1/14AC 12/11/12 CMD 11 Gore'Thum HP 1/23AC 12/12/11 Friday February 11th, 2022 6:31:21 AM
(Sorry I got diverted and forgot to update map yesterday, meant for Teddy to double move the long way around)
Gore'Thum stays back and looks on in concern. Teddy circles around so he can get close and heal next round.
“Benni” AC 18/11/17 CMD12 HP 13/13 Onesimos (SteveK) Friday February 11th, 2022 9:42:09 AM
Onesimos holds his breath, hoping the party can heal Issac faster than the Folarren can heal itself. It is a race to the death, and Benni just prays they win.
DM JamesM: Map - Round 9 Grave Hunt d20+4=18 ; d6+1=3 ; d20+4=24 ; d20+4=19 ; d6+1=7 ; d6+1=3 ; Friday February 11th, 2022 9:42:09 AM Kristoph threw another firebolt while Blusinda scampered across the ground and tried to scorch the forlarren's hoofed feet. He calls out to his friends to gather round to be healed.
Benni called out to Percivan and gauged his distance carefully as he sent out a wave of healing energy around him.
Issac drew upon his deity and called upon his last healing surge of the day and attacked the evil creature.
Snark in an inspired moment made the forlarren open himself up to an attack by Issac. (+1 Hero Point to Snark!)
Einar raged at the beast as he fought with passionate abandon.
Teddy circled around so he could try to heal his friend as Gore-Thum backed away with a concerned look upon his rubbery features.
Kristoph threw a firebolt that went wide, mostly due to him trying to avoid hitting his allies. Blusinda darted about as she tried to bring her fire bite against the forlarren, but it was just too quick for her as it pranced about and avoided her attacks.
Benni sent a healing surge out around him which aided Issac, Blusinda, and Snark as planned. Issac too drew upon his resources to heal himself a little more. In the confusion his attack upon the forlarren succeeded when Snark made the creature jump aside. The feint from the gnome put in in the exact position it needed to be for the paladins sword to strike it. Einar was like a tasmanian devil as he swarmed over the forlarren in his rage as his weapon lashed out at the evil creature.
Snarks move wasn't unnoticed and he paid for his clumsy withdrawal as the creature swiped out at him. It was just a scratch, but it burned hotly as blood welled up from the wound. The forlarren had a few choices but was confident she'd prevail as she moved up to Einar and swiped at him with a nasty claw attack.
Benni Perception DC 15 Highlight to display spoiler: {The Cold Iron gate on the crypt looks like it has a removable bar that might function as a club}
Perception DC 15 Highlight to display spoiler: {The forlarren is wounded, but appears to still be on the upper side of it's health. Those last two attacks on it seemed to overwhelm whatever resistances it might have.}
DM James: Kristoph - Forlarren, Roll 10, miss. Blusinda - Forlarren, Roll 4, miss. Benni, Channel Energy, Roll 5 Issac, Lay on Hands, Roll 6 Snark - Forlarren, Aid Another, Roll 10, Success! +2 to Issac's attack Forlarren - Snark, AoO, Roll 18, Hit. Damage 3 hp Issac - Forflarren, Roll 14+2(Aid Another)=16, Hit. Damage 14 hp Forlarren - Issac, Parasitic Bond, Damage 7 hp Einar - Forlarren, Roll 24, Hit. Damage 18-10(DR)= 8 hp Forlarren - Issac, Parasitic Bond, Damage 4 hp Forlarren - Einar, Roll 24, Hit. Damage 7 hp
Damage Counter - AC 17, DR10/Cold Iron, Fast Healing Forlarren, Damage 13, 20,3(Fire)+19+5(Acid)+14+8=Total 82
Einar, Issac, and Blusinda get an AoO when the Forlarren moved. 5' steps aren't allowed in difficult terrain.
Isaac Harker (MarkB subbing) HP -1/24 AC20/ T14 / FF 18 Friday February 11th, 2022 2:22:34 PM
With 11 more points of damage, Isaac once again goes down, the soft earth cushioning the fall of the large warrior.
Snark Riverstone (MarkB) AC13 T13 F10, CMD 11, HP 15/15 d20+4=20 ; d6+1=5 ; Friday February 11th, 2022 7:12:08 PM
(Thanks for the hero point!)
Snark throws another acid dart at the forlarren. He hits Touch AC 20, inflicting 5 points of acid damage (spell-like ability that ignores spell resistance.)
Then he moves a bit further in the soft ground, still keeping an eye on the forlarren.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------- Spells/Effects Running: Resistance (Snark 4/10), Resistance (Teddy (5/10), Enlarge Person (Isaac 2/10), Enlarge Person (Einar 7/10)
Abilities/Items Acid Dart (Sp) 6 - 4 used Gnome (Sp) 1/day - Dancing Lights, Ghost Sound, Prestidigitation, and Speak with Animals. Wand of Enlarge - 44 charges left
Tae-Che (Jim) HP 9/9 AC 12/12/10 CMD 13 Friday February 11th, 2022 7:38:17 PM
Tae-Che moves north and finds Percivan. Shecalls out to the others about the cold iron gate and it's protective properties against the forlarren, though that's when she sees a comrade fall. All Sense of safety leaves her and she decides to move back to the fight.
“Benni” AC 18/11/17 CMD12 HP 13/13 Onesimos (SteveK) d6=6 ; Saturday February 12th, 2022 3:52:17 AM
Onesimos calls to Pervican, “ You look safe right there, stay put! Oh, can you see anything like a fallen iron bar that you can use as a spear?”
He moves a bit back towards the party, sending another surge of positive energy, restoring 6 hit points to Issac, Blusinda, Snark, Tae-Che, and Kristoph. ” Pervican is safe behind some Cold Iron bars: the crazy Forlarren can’t touch him!”
…… Holding the Lantern and Shield. Move 10’ over path towards Issac
5 of 6 Channel 2 of 6 Calming Touch 1 of 6 Touch of Good
Kristoph: (Stephen C) | AC:17 | CMD:21 | HP: 19/19 - Blusinda: AC:12 | HP:16/16 d20+2=18 ; d4=1 ; d20+2=7 ; d20+7=23 ; d20+4=12 ; Saturday February 12th, 2022 7:57:22 AM
Blusinda sees the Forlarren move and snaps at its leg (Attack of opportunity:18 for 1 damage + Burn DC:11 1d4), following the creature (move 5') she attacks again (missing with:7).
(Perception:23) Kristoph notes the wounds/lack of wounds on the creature and hearing Tae-Che call out about the properties of cold iron - he devises plan "A". "Benni see if you can grab the gate or at least part of it, Isaac ..."" he pales as he sees the huge paladin faceplant the soil, his plan "A" involved telling the paladin to withdraw, 'Ok plan "B"' he tells himself and makes one up on the fly!
Advancing on the creature he taunts it "Hey, it looks like your face caught on fire and someone tried to put it out with a hammer"! Kristoph tries to grab the Forlarren (Attack:14) (Sorry CMB is +6 not +4 due to the Improved Grapple feat - Also if for some reason it is on fire he ensures he grabs a leg/arm/part of it that isn't!).
--- (OOC: Benni/SteveK the DM-James offered you (& only you) a Perception (DC:15) check - you may have failed your own perception check) ;-)
“Benni” AC 18/11/17 CMD12 HP 13/13 Onesimos (SteveK) d20+5=6 ; Saturday February 12th, 2022 10:26:05 AM
Benni (and SteveK) noticed nothing
Gore'Thum and Teddy Treeborn (Mitch) HP -1/14AC 12/11/12 CMD 11 Gore'Thum HP 1/23AC 12/12/11 d8=6 ; Sunday February 13th, 2022 8:10:53 PM "We could always run!" Teddy suggests. He moves up and heals Isaac for 8 HP.
Einar (StevenVdB) RAGE 0/13 - HP31/31 - AC14/9/12 - CMD 19 d20+9=20 ; 2d6+10=18 ; d20+8=11 ; d20+8=24 ; Monday February 14th, 2022 7:08:59 AM
AoO vs Forlarren Hits AC20 - damage 18HP
With the Forlarren now next to him Einar tries a different approach... he drops his Falchion (free move not provoking AoO) and throws himself on the Forlarren to grapple it... Doing so Einar does provokes an AoO from the Forlarren (no improved grapple feat)
Hits CMD 24 (reroll hero point used) Einar CMD 19
DM JamesM: Map - Round 10 Grave Hunt d20+4=5 ; d20+8=25 ; d20+8=24 ; d20+3=22 ; d20+4=9 ; d20+4=14 ; Monday February 14th, 2022 10:45:07 AM Issac fell to his knees and onto his side. The shock to his system from the parasite within him was too much.
Snark threw an acid dart at the forlarren.
Tae-Che found Percivan, but when Issac went down she turned back to the fight.
Benni told Percivan to stay put and asked the man if there was a spear like item in the crypt. He then sent a surge of healing energy to Issac, Blusinda, Snark, Tae-Che, and Kristoph. He also told the others that the woad hunter was safe.
Kristoph called out to Benni to grab a part of the gate if available. He then insults the evil fey creature and tries to grapple it.
Teddy suggested that running was an option in their strategy. He stepped up to Issac and healed him.
Einar struck at the forlarren once more with a mighty blow as it moved and then he tried to grab hold of it.
Issac fell to the ground and writhed upon it unconscious as the parasite worked it's way through his body. A few things happened next. First the forlarren looked back at Issac sadly and might have given up, but Blusinda bit her and she snarled at the fire cat. Second, Issac vomited up what looked like a 3' long worm that squirmed on the ground in front of him in a bloody pool of Issac's fluids. Third, the healing energy washed over him and he was stable and conscious.
Einar pounced on the forlarren, but it was wiley and escaped his hold only to try to swipe at the barbarian with it's nasty claws which both missed the large man. Kristoph's attempt to grab the creature failed as well.
From the north and over the wind you hear. "I have this bar I was using against it. It might help."
DM James: Snark - Forlarren, Acid Dart, Roll 20, Hit! Damage 5 hp Benni - Channel, Roll 6 hp to Issac, Blusinda, Snark, Tae-Che, and Kristoph. Blusinda - Forlarren, Roll 18, Hit. Damage 1 hp. Teddy - Issac, Healing, 8 hp Einar - Forlarren AoO, Roll 20, Hit. Damage 18-10(DR)= 8 hp Blusinda - Forlarren, Burn DC 11, Reflex Save Roll 25, Success! Forlarren - Einar, AoO, Roll 5, Miss. Forlarren, Remorse DC 15, Roll 24, Success! Forlarren - Issac, Parasitic Bond, 7 hp Kristoph - Forlarren, Grapple, Roll 14. miss. Einar - Forlarren, Grapple, Roll 24. Success! Forlarren - Einar, Roll 22. Breaks grapple Forlarren - Einar, Roll 9, 14. Miss, miss.
That 1 hp from Blusinda. What kind of damage is that? If it's a bite attack she needs to make a DC 15 fort save or take 1 point of Str and Dex damage.
Damage Counter - AC 17, DR10/Cold Iron, Fast Healing Forlarren, Damage 13, 20,3(Fire)+19+5(Acid)+14+8+5+8+1=Total 95
By my count Issac has 5 hp. The duration on the Parasitic Bond has expired. _______________________ Thrown Items
As long as the one throwing intends for the object to be caught, use the following rules. This is different than handing an object to another, which should be automatic.
To hit a square only requires the thrower to hit AC 5, to put it in the hands of another character they’d have to hit AC 10. The person catching then would have to actually catch it. This can be done with a reflex save as follows:
As long as the thrower hits AC 5 the catcher has a chance with his reflex save as a move action. The DC of the Reflex save is 20 minus the AC hit by the thrower. Hitting AC 5 makes it a DC 15 reflex save to catch it, AC 10 a DC 10 Reflex save, etc. In this case a 1 always fails and a 20 always succeeds. If the thrower fails to hit at least AC 5 the catcher has to move using a standard action and suffers a -4 on his Reflex save.
“Benni” AC 18/11/17 CMD12 HP 13/13 Onesimos (SteveK) Monday February 14th, 2022 11:24:58 AM
Onesimos runs to the bars where Pervican is standing and drops his Heavy Wooden shield. ”I’ll take it!”, he declares and exchanges his shield for the iron bar.
The elf’s intent is to run back and hand it to Issac or Einar next round, whoever he can get it to…
Holding the Lantern and Cold Iron Bar Move x3 run 60’ over path and difficult terrain to Pervican
5 of 6 Channel 2 of 6 Calming Touch 1 of 6 Touch of Good
Snark Riverstone (MarkB) AC13 T13 F10, CMD 11, HP 15/15 Monday February 14th, 2022 3:13:46 PM
Snark sees Isaac barf. He runs over to see Isaac sit up and notices something wriggling in the vomit.
"Wow Isaac - glad you got that out of your system. Yech."
Snark casts Flare on the forlarren. (DC 13 Fort save or Dazzled for 1 minute, -1 to hit and perception.)
----------------------------------------------------------------------------- Spells/Effects Running: Resistance (Snark 3/10), Resistance (Teddy (4/10), Enlarge Person (Isaac 1/10), Enlarge Person (Einar 6/10)
Abilities/Items Acid Dart (Sp) 6 - 4 used Gnome (Sp) 1/day - Dancing Lights, Ghost Sound, Prestidigitation, and Speak with Animals. Wand of Enlarge - 44 charges left
Kristoph: (Stephen C) | AC:17 | CMD:21 | HP: 19/19 - Blusinda: AC:12 | HP:16/16 Monday February 14th, 2022 6:59:00 PM
Blusinda's 1 point of damage was a normal slam attack.
She has: Burn (Ex) A creature with the burn special attack deals fire damage in addition to damage dealt on a successful hit in melee. Those affected by the burn ability must also succeed on a Reflex save (DC:11) or catch fire, taking 1d4 damage for an additional 1d4 rounds at the start of its turn. A burning creature can attempt a new save as a full-round action. Dropping and rolling on the ground grants a +4 bonus on this save. Creatures that hit a burning creature with natural weapons or unarmed attacks take fire damage as though hit by the burning creature and must make a Reflex save to avoid catching on fire.
Tae-Che (Jim) HP 9/9 AC 12/12/10 CMD 13 d20+2=16 ; d8+1=9 ; Monday February 14th, 2022 8:06:09 PM
Tae Che takes a step forward and swings her Longspear at the creature. [To hit 16, Damage 9]
Isaac Harker (Justin M) HP 24/24 AC20/ T14 / FF 18 d20+4=23 ; d20+4=23 ; 2d6+2=7 ; 2d6+2=10 ; Monday February 14th, 2022 9:27:11 PM
Isaac wipes his mouth with the back of his hand. I don't have long this giant spell should where off soon he thought he needed to strike this thing down before it infected another person with that maggot stuff. Isaac lumbers forth and takes what might be his final swing at the creature.
Move 5 feet west and attack (23 to hit confirmed critical) Damage ( 7+10=17)
Kristoph: (Stephen C) | AC:17 | CMD:21 | HP: 19/19 - Blusinda: AC:12 | HP:16/16 d20+2=18 ; d4=1 ; d20+4=20 ; d6+4=5 ; Tuesday February 15th, 2022 6:40:35 AM
Blusinda slams into the creature again (attack:18 for one damage with Reflex save (DC:11) or catch fire, this is her second attempt).
Meamwhile, Kristoph punches the Forlarren (attack:20 for 5 damage (using improved unarmed strike).
Stunning Fist. This forces a Fort (DC 14), in addition to dealing damage normally. A defender who fails this saving throw is stunned for 1 round (until just before your next turn). A stunned character drops everything held, can’t take actions, loses any Dexterity bonus to AC, and takes a –2 penalty to AC. Constructs, oozes, plants, undead, incorporeal creatures, and creatures immune to critical hits cannot be stunned.
Einar (StevenVdB) RAGE 0/13 - HP31/31 - AC14/9/12 - CMD 19 d20+10=23 ; Tuesday February 15th, 2022 7:52:28 AM
Einar is also running out of rage rounds fast today... he should get his hands on a weapon that bypasses that ludicrously high damage reduction. But for now his Falchion is on the ground. Picking it up will draw an AoO again so perhaps his best bet it to try and pin the Forlarren down with a second try.
Let's hope the Forlarren doens't break free a second time...
Gore'Thum and Teddy Treeborn (Mitch) HP -1/14AC 12/11/12 CMD 11 Gore'Thum HP 1/23AC 12/12/11 d8=1 ; d8=3 ; Tuesday February 15th, 2022 8:19:12 AM
Teddy uses his domain spell to heal Isaac one last time before he's totally out of spells for the day. 5 healing to him.
DM JamesM: Map - Round 11 Grave Hunt d20+6=18 ; d20+6=26 ; d20+6=19 ; d20+3=15 ; d20+4=10 Tuesday February 15th, 2022 9:15:46 AM Benni grabbed the iron bar from Percivan.
Snark remarked on the worm thing that came out of Issac and cast Flare on the Forlarren.
Issac felt much better than he had and took a step as he brought the wooden sword down on the forlarren.
Tae-Che struck at evil fey creature with her longspear.
Kristoph hit the forlarren with his stunning fist.
Einar tried the grapple the creature again.
Teddy healed Issac.
Benni ran up to the crypt grabbed the bar and headed back to everyone else. Snark made a quick hand movement and a burst of bright light flashed in the Forlarren's face. Unfortunately it turned it's head at the last moment and avoided the spells effects. Tae struck a the fey beast and would have missed but Einar's position allowed her a flanking position and her spear poked the creature. Unfortunately it's resistance prevented the spear from doing any damage to it. Issac wasn't to be ignored now that he'd recovered form the parasite and hit the Forlarren so hard it turned back to look at him in anger. Blusinda slammed into the forlarren again but had no effect on it. Kristoph followed up Blusinda's slam attack with his fist and thought the fey creature grunted from the impact it resisted the stunning effect. Einar grabbed hold of the creature once more and this time he held it tightly.
Restrained as it was the Forlarren couldn't fight back as it struggled to escape Einar's tight grip. ________ DM James: Snark - Forlarren, Flare, DC13 Fort Save, Roll 18, Success! Tae-Che - Forlarren, Roll 16+2(flanking)=18, Hit. Damage 9-10(DR)=0 hp Issac - Forlarren, Roll 23, Crit. Damage 17 hp Blusinda - Forlarren, Roll 18, Hit. Damage 1-10(DR)=0 hp. DC11 Reflex Save, Roll 26. Success! Kristoph - Forlarren, Roll 20, Hit. Damage 5-10(DR)=0 hp. DC14 Fort Save. Roll 19, Success! Forlarren - Einar AoO, Roll 10, Miss. Einar - Forlarren, Grapple, Roll 23. Success! Forlarran - Einar, Escape, Roll 15. Fail! Teddy - Issac, Heal, 5 hp.
Damage Counter - AC 17, DR10/Cold Iron, Fast Healing Forlarren, Damage 13, 20,3(Fire)+19+5(Acid)+14+8+5+8+1+17=112
_______ Grappled grappled creature is restrained by a creature, trap, or effect. Grappled creatures cannot move and take a –4 penalty to Dexterity. A grappled creature takes a –2 penalty on all attack rolls and combat maneuver checks, except those made to grapple or escape a grapple. In addition, grappled creatures can take no action that requires two hands to perform. A grappled character who attempts to cast a spell or use a spell-like ability must make a concentration check (DC 10 + grappler’s CMB + spell level), or lose the spell. Grappled creatures cannot make attacks of opportunity.
“Benni” AC 18/11/17 CMD12 HP 13/13 Onesimos (SteveK) Tuesday February 15th, 2022 11:32:36 AM
Onesimos races back to the fight. His breath coming in pants running along the path in 50 pounds of armor, the lantern and Cold Iron bar clutched in each hand.
As he gets to the scene of the fight, he holds it out but pauses, for he is unsure if there is anyone to give the bar to…
….. Holding the Lantern and Cold Iron Bar Move x3 run 60’ over path and difficult terrain to Pervican
5 of 6 Channel 2 of 6 Calming Touch 1 of 6 Touch of Good
Isaac Harker (Justin M) HP 24/24 AC20/ T14 / FF 18 d20+8=27 ; d20+8=11 ; d8+4=8 ; Tuesday February 15th, 2022 10:23:49 PM
Isaac now seeing the stupidly sturdy creature grappled and unable to attack, makes his way over to the fighting pair of Bennie and the Forlarren. Once he's next to the fighting pair, he takes aim and brings down the wooden sword on the Forlarren's head with a sharp crack.
(attack crit threatened but no crit rolled 3 got 11) (damage 8) (made a mistake last round I meant to say south towards the Forlarren not west. Isaac moves south until he is next to the grappling pair. I'm guessing the giant spell wore off last round?)
“Benni” AC 18/11/17 CMD12 HP 13/13 Onesimos (SteveK) Wednesday February 16th, 2022 12:26:26 AM
Onesimos races back to the fight. His breath coming in pants running along the path in 50 pounds of armor, the lantern and Cold Iron bar clutched in each hand.
As he gets to the scene of the fight, he holds it out but pauses, for he is unsure if there is anyone to give the bar to…
….. Holding the Lantern and Cold Iron Bar Move x3 run 60’ over path and difficult terrain to Pervican
5 of 6 Channel 2 of 6 Calming Touch 1 of 6 Touch of Good
Snark Riverstone (MarkB) AC13 T13 F10, CMD 11, HP 15/15 Wednesday February 16th, 2022 1:13:04 AM "Good job Einar. You hold it while we put an end to this thing."
"Smart thinkn' grabbing that bar Benni."
He considers grabbing the iron bar, but knows it would be less than useless in his little hands.
Snark looks around. How close is that fog thing?
He casts Resistance on Benni while he's near the elf.
Gore'Thum and Teddy Treeborn (Mitch) HP -1/14AC 12/11/12 CMD 11 Gore'Thum HP 1/23AC 12/12/11 Wednesday February 16th, 2022 6:09:05 AM
Teddy hesitates. "Is it right to attack it while it's helpless?" Gore'Thum has no such qualms. "It could easily break free of the grapple and try to kill us all again. Finish it or at least beat it into submission."
DM JamesM: Map - Round 12 Grave Hunt d20+3=10 ; Wednesday February 16th, 2022 8:26:10 AM Benni huffed back from the crypt ready to hand someone the iron bar.
Issac brought the wooden sword down on the forlarren's head once more.
Snark called encouraging words to Einar and Benni then thought to look for the approaching cloud. He then cast resistance on Benni.
Teddy questions whether it's sporting to attack it while it's held tight. Gore-Thum recommends they continue to fight it.
Benni raced up with the bar ready to hand it off to someone while Issac found the head of the forlarren with the length of his wooden sword. Snark looked north for the cloud and saw it was still racing towards them as the features of a ghostly woman were still taking shape.
The forlarren was stuck for now and struggle as it might couldn't break Einar's hold. The evil creature still seemed to be healing on it's own however. ________ DM James: Snark - Benni, Resistance Issac - Forlarren, Roll 27, Threat. Damage 8 hp Forlarran - Einar, Escape, Roll 10. Fail!
Damage Counter - AC 17, DR10/Cold Iron, Fast Healing Forlarren, Damage 13, 20,3(Fire)+19+5(Acid)+14+8+5+8+1+17=112+8=120
“Benni” AC 18/11/17 CMD12 HP 13/13 Onesimos (SteveK) d20+3=4 ; Wednesday February 16th, 2022 8:56:50 AM
Onesimos sees that he seems to be the best one to use the improvised Cold Iron club. He swings like he’s the hometown hero of Mudville, and misses hard.
….. Holding the Lantern and Cold Iron Bar Swing! Batter batter batter. Nat 1
5 of 6 Channel 2 of 6 Calming Touch 1 of 6 Touch of Good
Tae-Che (Jim) HP 9/9 AC 12/12/10 CMD 13 2d8+2=10 ; Wednesday February 16th, 2022 8:24:13 PM
Tae Che takes aim and strikes the creature in a soft spot as it appears to be helpless.[Coup de Grace (full round action) 10pts Critical [requires a Fort save]
Kristoph: (Stephen C) | AC:17 | CMD:21 | HP: 19/19 - Blusinda: AC:12 | HP:16/16 d20+4=10 ; Wednesday February 16th, 2022 9:40:06 PM
Kristoph attacks to aid whoever uses the makeshift pole (hits AC:10) granting +2 bonus on his next attack roll against the creature.
Isaac Harker (Justin M) HP 24/24 AC20/ T14 / FF 18 d20+5=23 ; d6+6=11 ; d6+6=12 ; d6+6=12 ; Wednesday February 16th, 2022 9:52:51 PM
If it's possible Isaac will Coup de Grace the creature. If not he will attack like the previous round. (Attack Hits 23, damage 11) (Coup de grace 24 damage fortitude save dc 34 or die) "And this is for the maggots" Isaac shouts as he hits the creature in the head again.
Snark Riverstone (MarkB) AC13 T13 F10, CMD 11, HP 15/15 d20+8=24 ; Thursday February 17th, 2022 1:30:18 AM
Snark figure the rest of the group can handle the forlarren from here. He wanders over to the penned up woad hunter.
"Hey, Perci. How's it going?"
Does he see anything out of the ordinary? (Perception 24)
Einar (StevenVdB) RAGE 0/13 - HP31/31 - AC14/9/12 - CMD 19 d20+10=21 ; Thursday February 17th, 2022 3:52:30 AM
Einar just puts all his enlarged weight in to restrain the Forlarren. He's not ok though with a coup the grace on the creature... didn't Eberyon one day reform as well? Isn't there a way to talk some sense into this fey kind? What would Queen Maab say??! What would Selene say knowing they mercilessly put an end to this Forlarren's life?
CMB 21 sufficient to restrain the creature
"Stop... surrender.... "
Gore'Thum and Teddy Treeborn (Mitch) HP -1/14AC 12/11/12 CMD 11 Gore'Thum HP 1/23AC 12/12/11 Thursday February 17th, 2022 7:18:36 AM
Teddy turns away from the grim picture and covers his ears. Gore'Thum looks on steadily, unphased.
“Benni” AC 18/11/17 CMD12 HP 13/13 Onesimos (SteveK) Thursday February 17th, 2022 3:33:44 PM ”May the Lands of Rest look kindly on you”, the cleric says to the Forlarren as he also tries to Coup de Grace the creature with the Cold Iron club. ” It’s really not it fault that it ate the Spirit Woad and went crazy .”.
Privately, Onesimos wonders if that is true, but the gods will know. And it’s certainly true that right now, the creature is a threat to anyone who sets foot on the island.
DM JamesM: Map - Grave Hunt Thursday February 17th, 2022 3:53:34 PM
As one they put the forlarren down. In the wake of the victory Snark looked back at the sky and saw the cloud vanish as it swept by overhead. It was once again a cloudless sky set in the cold waters of the swamp.
DM James: Next actions?
Kristoph: (Stephen C) | AC:17 | CMD:21 | HP: 19/19 - Blusinda: AC:12 | HP:16/16 Thursday February 17th, 2022 9:06:39 PM
Kristoph is uncomfortable with the death of the creature but remains silent. He looks up at the sky thinking.
Isaac Harker (Justin M) HP 24/24 AC20/ T14 / FF 18 Thursday February 17th, 2022 9:27:26 PM
With the creature now dead the full exhaustion of the fight hits Isaac he walks over to a grave monument and sits down trying to catch his breath and trying to absorb the fight and come to terms that he almost died.. "let's never do that ever again." he finally says. He looks at the others then at his own bloodied clothes and asks Bennie if he has any healing left.
Snark Riverstone (MarkB) AC13 T13 F10, CMD 11, HP 15/15 Friday February 18th, 2022 12:12:56 AM
Snark worries that Perci is not answering. Does he look alright? Is he diseased or behaving oddly? He stays an arms length away from the iron bars until he can tell that this guy seems safe to let out.
“Benni” AC 18/11/17 CMD12 HP 13/13 Onesimos (SteveK) Friday February 18th, 2022 4:03:41 AM
Onesimos, breathing hard, tucks the Cold Iron bar in his belt beside his Morningstar. ”Agreed if it is within our power, yet I fear our profession is going to make such desperate fights all too frequent.”
“Still, it is good to know there are such as you whose friendship and shared goodwill we can each count upon. And that Heranmar and other goodly communities can count on our group’s unselfish concern for the welfare of others. It is motivation coupled with action that will lead us to our own place in the Lands of Rest.”
Benni has one channel and one spell, and he has 5 scrolls with Cure Light Wounds spells. ”It’s a good idea for everyone to purchase thier own healing scrolls and potions, too. My gifts from Flower are best used for defensive situations to avoid wounds. Magical healing is not the most important duty for a cleric of Flower! ”
…. Ooc: Issac looks fully healed? Benni will use one of his scrolls if not…
Einar (StevenVdB) RAGE 0/13 - HP31/31 - AC14/9/12 - CMD 19 Friday February 18th, 2022 4:59:43 AM
Einar feels how the Forlarren goes limp in his embrace as his friends put an end to her life. No matter how vile the creature was it does sadden Einar to see it dead. It's was a creature of Queen Maab as well.
Coming down from his rage and shrinking to normal size Einar pick up his blade and examines it. He should consider something to bypass damage reduction fast...
Gore'Thum and Teddy Treeborn (Mitch) HP -1/14AC 12/11/12 CMD 11 Gore'Thum HP 1/23AC 12/12/11 Friday February 18th, 2022 6:30:24 AM
Teddy keeps hiding his face until the deed is done. Gore'Thum nudges him when it's over. Come. Let us finish and leave. Get the woad." Teddy nods and starts gathering some of the stuff.
“Benni” AC 18/11/17 CMD12 HP 13/13 Onesimos (SteveK) Friday February 18th, 2022 6:38:46 AM
Onesimos, breathing hard, tucks the Cold Iron bar in his belt beside his Morningstar. ”Agreed if it is within our power, yet I fear our profession is going to make such desperate fights all too frequent.”
“Still, it is good to know there are such as you whose friendship and shared goodwill we can each count upon. And that Heranmar and other goodly communities can count on our group’s unselfish concern for the welfare of others. It is motivation coupled with action that will lead us to our own place in the Lands of Rest.”
Benni has one channel and one spell, and he has 5 scrolls with Cure Light Wounds spells. ”It’s a good idea for everyone to purchase thier own healing scrolls and potions, too. My gifts from Flower are best used for defensive situations to avoid wounds. Magical healing is not the most important duty for a cleric of Flower! ”
…. Ooc: Issac looks fully healed? Benni will use one of his scrolls if not…
DM JamesM: Map - Treasure Hunt Friday February 18th, 2022 12:05:57 PM
The graveyard was strangely quiet as the heroes pulled themselves out of the mud or regained their footing after the destruction of the evil fey creature.
The last woad hunter, Percivan, walked up to survey the carnage and remarked."You saved me life, you did. Illariel lost 'er arm ter dat reefclaw. We were all doin' really badly and a saw her eatin' the woad under the tree over dere. A short time later her arm regrew, but the changes didn't stop. She kilt everyone else, but it were dark and I don't reckon anybody but me worked out it were her doing the killin'.
Percivan sat on a short monument and continued. "I ran into dat crypt back dere and was able ter keep her away from me. I'm a might knackered. Don't think I've gotten any sleep in days. She;s been diggin' up the graves dis whole time. Tossin' tings left an' right. Over dere." He finished with a shaking hand as he pointed to the east.
Laying about the graveyard where the Forlarren has unearthed many of the graves are assorted items. Miscellaneous Jewelry worth 500gp, a small chest with 750 gp, a velvet bag with 130 sp, and a decayed ornamental wooden rod with 5 gems 50gp each.
Elsewhere in the graveyard are a cutlass; A scroll with Bull’s Strength, Dispel Magic, and Cure Disease; A heavily Varnished Wand with an Eagles Feather wrapped around it beneath the varnish, one end shaped like an eagle’s beak; and a Skull and femur Ivory rod.
“Benni” AC 18/11/17 CMD12 HP 13/13 Onesimos (SteveK) Friday February 18th, 2022 12:45:43 PM
Onesimos nods: it was Illiriel who was transformed into the Forlarren. ”it wouldn’t help the community to bring her home for burial looking like that. Let’s bury her and the others here, and re-consecrate the graveyard.”
The elf begins to do what he said, re-interring bones or bodies, and sending heart-felt thoughts to wing many souls way to the Lands of Rest.
He lets the others collect the rewards for their mission.
Tae-Che (Jim) HP 9/9 AC 12/12/10 CMD 13 Friday February 18th, 2022 9:29:13 PM
Tae Che assists Benni with the reinterrment of the bodies that had been disturbed. "I definitely will be looking to get some magical healing and other things when we get back to Heranmar. "
Isaac Harker (Justin M) HP 24/24 AC20/ T14 / FF 18 Friday February 18th, 2022 11:16:22 PM
Isaac looked up at Percivan "Wait she lost her arm?" Isaac thought back to the strange arm with a tattoo they had found. "The Woad we got from around that tree if it's what changed her we need to get rid of it. That tree I guess tainted it." Isaac gets up he hefts the wooden sword in his hand and hands it back to Snark. "Until we get back to town I guess this isn't really mine" He helps Bennie put the graves right as best they can however as he looks over the large amount of treasure that was dug up he asks the others "Are we sure we want to take any of this? I mean ghosts don't take to kindly to graverobbing." Isaac concentrates and looks over the items to see it the taint that had effected the tree had seeped into any of the treasure they had found.
Einar (StevenVdB) - HP27/27 - AC18/13/15 - CMD 18 Saturday February 19th, 2022 12:21:28 PM
After a while Einar has recovered from his rage (lost track of the number of rounds Einar has raged today.. I'm assuming he had close to his 13 rounds) and helps the others with the graveyard.
"Hey... where did that pirate go?! Didn't I tell him to stay here?!? If he ran off on his own through the swamp I have little hopes for him... "
Isaac Harker (Justin M) HP 24/24 AC20/ T14 / FF 18 Saturday February 19th, 2022 10:04:56 PM
Isaac gets a hit of some sort of taint on the bone rod with a skull. "Hey snark any idea what this rod is? I'm getting some sort of weird feeling from it."
Kristoph: (Stephen C) | AC:17 | CMD:21 | HP: 19/19 - Blusinda: AC:12 | HP:16/16 Sunday February 20th, 2022 3:50:04 PM
Kristoph helps with the bodies and remains silent on the loot.
Gore'Thum and Teddy Treeborn (Mitch) HP -1/14AC 12/11/12 CMD 11 Gore'Thum HP 1/23AC 12/12/11 Sunday February 20th, 2022 8:41:29 PM
Teddy looks at the woad he gathered in horror and quickly drops it. "That's horrible." he shivers. Gore'Thum considers the tree. "Destroy the tree?" he wonders.
As conversation turns to the pirate Teddy comments, "I don't really blame him. It looked for a moment like we would lose the fight. Hopefully nothing else got him."
Snark Riverstone (MarkB) AC13 T13 F10, CMD 11, HP 15/15 d20+9=18 ; d20+9=26 ; d20+9=13 ; d20+9=17 ; d20+9=16 ; d20+9=12 ; d20+9=29 ; Sunday February 20th, 2022 9:25:00 PM
Snark will cast Detect Magic and scan the area to check both what has been found and perhaps what was overlooked. He will attempt to identify what items are magic. (Spellcraft rolls: 18, 26, 13, 17, 12, 29)
He responds to the Paladin, "Yeah, I agree we don't wanna be grave robbers. So let's look at this this way, these folk here don't need this stuff no more. And maybe they're giving this stuff up in to us for restoring this place! That tree's gotta go for sure. Any ideas?"
When he's done, Snark will do what he can to help Benni restore the place.
Tae-Che (Jim) HP 9/9 AC 12/12/10 CMD 13 Sunday February 20th, 2022 10:08:35 PM
Tae Che continues to assist Benni with the clean up of the graves. "Place everything in a bag and we can sort it out later. This place just gives me the creepies."
DM JamesM: Map - Treasure Hunt Monday February 21st, 2022 12:12:34 PM Benni suggested they bury the forlarren and reconsecrate the ground.
Tae-Che revealed she'd be purchasing a means of magical healing when they returned to town. She suggested they put everything in a bag and leave.
Issac recommended they get rid of the contaminated woad. He hands the magical wooden sword to Snark and starts to set the grave yard back to normal.
Einar asked about the pirate, but no one had seen him. Even his flight during the fight had mostly gone unseen by those in the group.
Kristoph helped Issac set the graves back in order, but otherwise remains quiet.
Teddy dropped the woad when he realized some of it was tainted and asked if they should destroy the tree. He doesn't blame the pirate for running.
Snark cast detect magic on the items they found.
Snark Spellcraft Checks Highlight to display spoiler: { The cutlass is magic, but it's enchantment escapes him at the moment. The wand pops immediately as a wand of Eagles Splendor, but it only has 2 charges, The last item that Issac said was evil gives Snark a very bad feeling(loss of 1 level while holding it) and appears to be a wand animate dead. The other items were scrolls.}
KS: Nature DC 15 or KS: Religion DC 15 Highlight to display spoiler: {The forlarren carries the blight. It and the tree that infected her should both be burned. }
KS: Religion DC 20 Highlight to display spoiler: {The woad can be cleansed with the proper ritual so the heroes won't have to harvest any more.}
Percivan searched through the bundles the heroes collected and chose the 20 best ones. "These others have spoiled." he informed them as he pointed to several he set aside.
Issac gathered the remains of those that had churned to the surface in the forlarren's haste to uncover whatever it was looking for. As he did so he discovered that bones he found were still close to their plots. The forlarren seemed to have fixated on the other items for long enough that their origin was unknown. Percivan confirmed this and said that Illariel would walk about for days with a single piece before loosing interest in it.
A quick check on the large boat they arrived in proved that it was still there. The missing pirate likely escaped in the boat he arrived in. You did see he paused long enough to recover the treasure chest you found on the other pirates, but he left the small trees.
Since the whaleboat was nearly 30 feet long with a 6 foot beam getting it back to town was going to be a problem. They did have the option of trying to find their way out to sea and row along the coast back to town. So it would be the dangers of the swamp or the the ocean.
KS: Geography DC 15 Highlight to display spoiler: {You think you spotted the channel and think Heranmar is 5 days away by sea. Otherwise it's three days out of the swamp and another 3 to town. }
DM James Edit: Everyone has leveled to 3rd, plus 1000 xp. It was a hard won fight and you get some extra. If you don't have 3 hero points, you do now. Be ready by March 1st with your revised sheets.
“Benni” AC 18/11/17 CMD12 HP 13/13 Onesimos (SteveK) d20+5=6 ; Monday February 21st, 2022 6:12:07 PM
Onesimos’ knowledge in matter of religion draws a blank, so the elf just has to go with gut instinct. He finishes his efforts, then helps with the bales and trees and rowing.
The centuries-old cleric is wise enough to let more nature-experienced people pick the route!
Ooc. Thanks for an excellent adventure!!
Tae-Che (Jim) HP 9/9 AC 12/12/10 CMD 13 d20+7=10 ; Monday February 21st, 2022 9:17:47 PM
Not sure which would be the easier route to take, the swamp or the ocean, Tae Che considers that the ocean might just be better and sunnier than the swamp. [Know: Nature: 10]
Isaac Harker (Justin M) HP 24/24 AC20/ T14 / FF 18 d20+9=27 ; Monday February 21st, 2022 11:21:48 PM
Isaac looks over at the creature and the rotten tree."Benni can you give me a hand with this creatures body it's afflicted by the Blight and that tree back their as well we need to burn them." When the topic taking the sea or land route he asks "We'll is any one here a sailor or know their way around a boat because unless we have someone like that we will need to go back the way we came."
Isaac Harker (Justin M) HP 24/24 AC20/ T14 / FF 18 Monday February 21st, 2022 11:24:31 PM
Isaac also takes a look at the woad and remarks "I I think we can cleanse this so we don't have to harvest any more." Isaac if he is able will try and cleanse the woad.
(sorry for the double post)
“Benni” AC 18/11/17 CMD12 HP 13/13 Onesimos (SteveK) Tuesday February 22nd, 2022 12:31:31 AM
Benni certainly helps with burning the Blighted body and tree. ”It matters less how we respect the corporeal husk of those drops of Woldsblood that we call souls, than that we do respect them. It shows love for the community, and community with the departed. After all, none of us are immortal.”
Snark Riverstone (MarkB) AC13 T13 F10, CMD 11, HP 15/15 d20+7=14 ; d20+3=18 ; Tuesday February 22nd, 2022 1:33:27 AM
Snark looks over the items. "The cutlass is magic. This is a wand of Eagles Splendor, but it only has 2 charges. That skull wand is a bad one - it's a wand animate dead and it's cursed to make you weaker (-1 level) if you hold it. What do you think Isaac, should we destroy it?
"And we got a scroll with Bull’s Strength, Dispel Magic, and Cure Disease." Clerical scroll?
"Well, shall we get out of here? I could use a rest soon too. Looks like that pirate run off with our boat and our treasure. Does that mean we should be killing our prisoners? I was hoping he seen the error of his ways."
Kristoph: (Stephen C) | AC:17 | CMD:21 | HP: 19/19 - Blusinda: AC:12 | HP:16/16 Tuesday February 22nd, 2022 3:38:30 AM "Burn you say"? Kdistoph says ~ brightening up and flexing his fingers as if preparing a spell.
--- Kristoph's only spell left is burning hands (domain). It must be fate he tells himself.
Gore'Thum and Teddy Treeborn (Mitch) HP -1/14AC 12/11/12 CMD 11 Gore'Thum HP 1/23AC 12/12/11 Tuesday February 22nd, 2022 5:31:01 AM
Gore'Thum is dismissive of the pirate. "Coward and fool. Let him run. He'll do little harm."
Einar (StevenVdB) - HP27/27 - AC18/13/15 - CMD 18 Tuesday February 22nd, 2022 7:45:17 AM
Einar is unsure to take the sea route... he's no sailor... he can deal with some of the swamp monsters but he can't fight the sea with steel in his hands. Whatever is decided he'll help rowing.
Hero's Return
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
Fey Festival
DM JamesM: Map - Fey Festival and Rumors Friday February 25th, 2022 9:12:50 AM
Benni and Tae walked into the WLA stall and had to stop to check themselves. It looked like a fireball had gone off in it. Papers were scattered about, pins were in unsorted piles, and forms weren't collated properly. In the back of the stall Akoka sat with her back to the entrance looking at a set of documents as she tried to sort out something. When she saw Benni she had a crazy little laugh and said. "I'll be glad when that administrator gets here. The first one was lost at sea..pirates...this last one was eaten by a kracken. That's two WLA admins in a month."
Perception DC 5 Highlight to display spoiler: {Nothing the heroes did to help her the last time remains. It's as if she randomly shuffled everything as soon as they left.}
***************
Issac's query to the Innkeeper was met with a smile as the older woman adjusted her dress, smoothed it out and came around the bar where she'd been speaking with Ralphus. As she approached Ralphus called out to the assembled patrons. "What do you call a hen that can count her own eggs?" A math-ma-chicken!" Ralphus nearly burst out the answer as he clutched the bar top to keep from falling over.
Ginifred glared back at Ralphus and stood primly in front of the paladin. "Let's see. Fauna, Thelma's daughter, you know Thelma Applecake, is getting her costume together for the Fey Festival next week. She wants to be queen Maab at the dance on the lastday of the week, you know...preside over the festivities with her fey minions in attendance...after they carry her through the streets on her throne to the festival grounds. I hear Mojo, you know Mojo Filler, he used to be the harbormaster, but he found Jamesroy's treasure years ago so he lives in his mansion over on wall st with his servants. Well Mojo might offer a prize for the best beer...Ralphus is getting his best green ready, I'm sure he'll win. Captain Rio returned yesterday, the woman is not ready for polite company at the best of times. I hear she's getting in fist fights down by the docks. Dear me, hope she keeps that away from here. The mayor has been obsessed with grandpa jones, that's what he's calling a monster catfish over in Two Mile Creek. Says he found the perfect bait and he's not giving up until he's caught the elusive creature." Ginifred laughed at the last thing as she took a deep breath, prepared to continue with her gossip.
***************
Snark forgets the battleaxe is evil and though he raises it triumphantly it's a real effort and his countenance wavers. Those that see the hero stagger in it's presence take a few steps back from it and him. "Yer shud prolly git rid of dat." says one of the wiser patrons.
***************
The morning passes and the afternoon does as well. Everyone starts hearing more about this fey festival as well. Apparently a celebration of the green and the primary reason for harvesting the woad. You hear all sorts of speculation about who will be queen Maab this year, apparently there are quite a few candidates, one of which is captain Rio though most of the townsfolk think her too old.
***************
Meanwhile Kristoph entered the Dockgate Tavern and completely failed his attempt to remain anonymous.
"Here's to the killer of Heranmar!" someone in the crowd yelled as he entered the basement. Slowly people moved to the walls until only one person was left standing on the floor. It was Captain Rio, and she already had a bloody lip.
Tae-Che (Jim) HP 9/9 AC 12/12/10 CMD 13 Friday February 25th, 2022 9:36:32 PM "Akoka, do you need some assistance in getting this place organized? I'm available to assist if you want." Tae Che comments.
Isaac Harker (Justin M) HP 24/24 AC20/ T14 / FF 18 Friday February 25th, 2022 11:24:58 PM
Isaac smiles at Ralphus's bad joke he liked those corny jokes even if they didn't make much sense. The fey festival intrigued him and the sound of Captain Rio getting into fights worried him."Can you tell me more about this festival. For example is there a king of fey as well or only a queen? Also why is Rio starting fights? Is she looking for someone or just blowing of steam?" Isaac looks over at Snark waving around the cursed axe. "Snark! Don't go waving that around. We need to take it up to the church later." He was still very concerned about the axe and what sort of history it held. Cleaning it of the taint before the big fey festival would be a top priority.
“Benni” AC 18/11/17 CMD12 HP 13/13 Onesimos (SteveK) Saturday February 26th, 2022 5:45:00 AM
Onesimos is momentarily dismayed by the mess in WLA booth. ” Oh.. my..”. Then the elf shakes his head in bemused resignation, and then pitches in to help sort some semblance again.
Morning over, Benni is about town and hears about the festival, and makes his own preparations. A mask, plain but able to hide the features, and a cloak and cowl. Yes, he will go as Flower, and work to help the community!
…. Perception+5 auto success.
Kristoph: (Stephen C) | AC:17 | CMD:22 | HP: 25/25 - Blusinda: AC:13 | HP:21/21 d20+4=22 ; d20+4=5 ; d6+4=10 ; Saturday February 26th, 2022 8:30:33 PM
He'd heard she wasn't much for small talk so Kristoph fights in Rio's style. He holds back and parry's what he can, hiding his skills and whether he's outclassed and fighting for his life or the better - he strives to make the fight look closer than it is. Not for the crowd, or the thrill but because people heal in their own way. He figures the Fire-in-the-Mountain chose him for who he was and let's go. Unconditional healing. Maybe she's working off anger? Or this is how she gets to know people? Either way he spars with Rio and let's her work up a sweat. If she slows he forces her to speed up. Healing can be done in many ways.
Of course he could have it all wrong and if necessary applies a more aggressive form of life-coaching with a flurry. The second attack misses but the first is a whopper: (22) 10 non-lethal 'shipped to the dome'.
Sure the place was a mess, there was far too much water in the ale and the customers had personal hygiene issues. But sometimes friends find each other in the strangest of places. After the fight Kristoph will lead with something ranging from: "That's a mean right hook you have, I think I'm in love." (if the DM rolls a nat:20) to "That lucky punch you got in whilst I was waving to a friend" (if he just lost). Maybe they can train together?! If he wins he will lead with "You nearly had me when …" and help them up and maybe make a friend (let me know if you need more rolls, oh & on that subject - thanks for rolling with it DM)!
"You do not truly know someone until you fight them … and then go for an ale after"! - Kristoph.
Snark Riverstone (MarkB) AC13 T13 F10, CMD 11, HP 15/15 Sunday February 27th, 2022 12:08:34 AM
Snark forgets himself with that nasty axe. Later he says to Isaac, "You know, I think they have a way in the Catacombs of making sure this thing is either neutralized or at least doesn't fall into the wrong hands."
Gore'Thum and Teddy Treeborn (Mitch) HP -1/14AC 12/11/12 CMD 11 Gore'Thum HP 1/23AC 12/12/11 Sunday February 27th, 2022 8:50:59 PM
Gore'Thum starts to wonder what's taking so long and goes to find the guy who they were supposed to meet this morning and never sent for them.
Snark Riverstone (MarkB) AC13 T13 F10, CMD 11, HP 15/15 Sunday February 27th, 2022 10:58:55 PM
(OOC: Check the Heranmar Loot email. If no one claims anything else, I'm selling it all and dispersing gold!)
Einar (StevenVdB) - HP27/27 - AC18/13/15 - CMD 18 Monday February 28th, 2022 7:15:24 AM
Einar's a bit distracted. I will get back on track in a day or two...
DM JamesM: Map - Fey Festival and Rumors Monday February 28th, 2022 8:19:26 AM
The WLA
Tae and Benni spent the better part of the morning sorting and straightening out the clerical mess that Akoka seemed at a loss to handle. Pins, forms, pamphlets, quills, and ink, a heraldric shield that had fallen from the window and was resting upon the floor. The large luggage trunks that it all arrived in ended up being stacked against the side of the stall. They also found cloaks laying under all the clutter. Each cloak was embroidered with the WLA shield. All told there was ten of them.
********************* The Blue Cat Tavern
Issac asked Ginifred more about the festival. "Oh yes. It's a celebration here in the spring to thank the fey for giving us this land. You know all this belonged to Queen Maab once. A King? Hmmm. Never heard of one, but Maab can be a bit tricky...She might have eaten him...no telling with Fey. Rio? Fights. Hello, it's Rio. She's prolly over at Hammerfists...he's got a standing bounty for anyone that can best her. She hasn't lost yet. I hear she's really quick..but no lady to be sure."
********************* The Dockgate Tavern
Kristoph had found himself surrounded by onlookers in the basement of the Dockgate with Rio. She wiped the blood from the corner of her mouth and smiled at him. "So, yer the Killer of Heranmar. Let's see if yer able to hold the title." she said as she grabbed her long black hair with two hands and secured it in a pony tail.
Kristoph had planned to feel her style out but soon learned that Rio had no style, was utterly unpredictable and well, impossible to hit. On the bright side, her delicate hands weren't very tough and her punches were more like light slaps, still though they wore him down. When he admitted his love, she shrugged and replied. "Not the first."
When it was all done Kristoph was on the floor and Rio was picking him up as the room cheered the unorthodox captain of the Sea Witch. The rest of the encounter went as he'd planned and it appeared as if he'd made a friend.
*********************
The evening the heroes were called before the council. There they were thanked for recovering the woad, and the hunter Percivan. In return they were given 3,000gp, 1,000gp for the feystone axe, and 2,000gp for the Woad. The councilwoman Honora, picked up the axe and placed it in a box with the claim that she could cleanse it and dispose of it.
Edit: Yes the Mayor is back. He's wearing a fishing outfit and looks to have been in the creek all day. He has lures and hooks and whatnot in his hat and has a box with fishing line stuffed in it beside him.
DM James: Went ahead and decided to exchange the axe for gold here in game. Remember DM Jon takes over tomorrow.
Snark Riverstone (MarkB) AC13 T13 F10, CMD 11, HP 15/15 Monday February 28th, 2022 12:24:06 PM
Snark is very grateful to the Heranmar Town Council for their kind reward. "You folk have been most gracious and welcoming to us. May the Crones bless Heranmar for the kindness you show to strangers." Snark will wear the carved ironwood pendant his father made depicting the Crones of the South.
He will wander about town over the next few days. He has three objectives:
1 - Find out more about this upcoming festival and how one properly prepares (mask, clothing, items that should be procured, etc.)
2 - Perform what helpful magics he can here and there (Mending to repair broken items, Prestidigitation to clean and entertain, Unseen Servant to actually get some chores done for someone, create a Mount to help move a cart or such, etc.)
3 - Seek out info about any wizards in town to see if they will swap or otherwise let him copy some spells out of their spellbooks. Snark hopes that the party's help to the town, and his general help with his magics about town may make the locals more disposed to help him out finding spells to add to his spellbook.
“Benni” AC 18/11/17 CMD12 HP 13/13 Onesimos (SteveK) Monday February 28th, 2022 2:35:38 PM
After a good day of helping, Onesimos is cleaned and in a tunic-and-trousers with flowers about the hem when he goes with the team to let the Council. Everything seems acceptable to the elf, and he looks casually about to see if the Mayor is back yet.
Kristoph: (Stephen C) | AC:17 | CMD:22 | HP: 25/25 - Blusinda: AC:13 | HP:21/21 Monday February 28th, 2022 6:07:01 PM
Kristoph takes a drink from a passing waiter.
Isaac Harker (Justin M) HP 24/24 AC20/ T14 / FF 18 Monday February 28th, 2022 10:43:11 PM
At the inn Isaac makes a mental note to try and learn more about this Fey queen.
At the council Isaac breathes a sigh of relief fey celebrations aside the axe made him anxious with how potent the evil aura he sensed on it.
DM Jon: Odd question Tuesday March 1st, 2022 12:04:54 AM
Where does the party stay when they're in town? Do they have their own homes, stay at the inn? Just wondering
Einar (StevenVdB) - HP27/27 - AC18/13/15 - CMD 18 Tuesday March 1st, 2022 5:20:25 AM
(gettings things back on track - updating char sheet as we speak and then I'll be back in the game.)
Kristoph: (Stephen C) | AC:17 | CMD:22 | HP: 25/25 - Blusinda: AC:13 | HP:21/21 Tuesday March 1st, 2022 5:41:44 AM
At the inn I believe.
Kristoph: (Stephen C) | AC:17 | CMD:22 | HP: 25/25 - Blusinda: AC:13 | HP:21/21 Tuesday March 1st, 2022 5:41:45 AM
At the inn I believe.
Gore'Thum and Teddy Treeborn (Mitch) HP -1/14AC 12/11/12 CMD 11 Gore'Thum HP 1/23AC 12/12/11 Tuesday March 1st, 2022 8:25:59 AM
Gore'Thum and Teddy are currently staying at the inn, having had no chance to look for more permanent lodging. Ever practical, Gore'Thum wakes Teddy up and takes him to look at buildings for sale they might buy since they are probably staying here long term and they have plenty of gold now.
“Benni” AC 18/11/17 CMD12 HP 13/13 Onesimos (SteveK) Tuesday March 1st, 2022 11:21:08 AM
Onesimos is temporarily staying at the Inn in a modest room. Really, he needs nothing more than a bed and a secure place for his gear. He will even check with the others to see if they want to share a room for cost reasons.
He, like Snark, spends his days helping around town; mostly at the WLA and the Sanctuary of the Sea. He tries to see if he can use the WLA cloaks, and see if the old lip Taur has any stories about the ghosts outside of the walls.
Snark Riverstone (MarkB) AC13 T13 F10, CMD 11, HP 15/15 Tuesday March 1st, 2022 8:29:31 PM
At the inn
Tae-Che (Jim) HP 9/9 AC 12/12/10 CMD 13 d20+8=9 ; Tuesday March 1st, 2022 9:23:43 PM
Tae Che is currently at the inn. The festival the townsfolk spoke of, she had not heard of before now. She went out and got a green shirt for it. [Knowledge: Nature: 9]
DM Jon: Fey Festival Tuesday March 1st, 2022 10:17:14 PM
So when everyone wakes up in the morning, they can feel something has changed within the community. Moving down into the common room, there are green bows and streamers hung on the lights and walls. There are fresh flowers, many green in color, and those that normally aren't have been magicked green. The smells of food cooking are overpowering, spiced potatoes, eggs, bacon. The servers all have green ribbons in their hair, and are wearing older green skirts ... they are also whispering and giggling when they think no one is looking.
Looking out any of the windows or open doors, it is easy to see that the town has exploded in green decorations and clothing. Even a few horses have ribbons tied into their manes.
The general gist is that the festival lasts a week...
Know: Local DC 10 Highlight to display spoiler: { The festival is a great time to get drunk and meet people. } Know: Local DC 15 Highlight to display spoiler: { The Fey Festival honors the Crones, with feasts and celebrations. } Know: Local DC 20 Highlight to display spoiler: { The Fey Festival was started as a way of honoring the Crones who have fought to maintain balance in the region. The color green represents rebirth, thus why the Woad is gathered }
Isaac Harker (Justin M) HP 24/24 AC20/ T14 / FF 18 d20+2=14 ; d20+1=4 ; Tuesday March 1st, 2022 10:43:45 PM
Isaac looks out window at all the green decorations silently wondering if a leprechaun had decided to decorate the town last night "I guess this is the fey festival" He gets ready to head out he needed to contact the blacksmith and do some more research on this Queen Mabb he had heard about. Also it would be prime opportunity to talk and get to know the townsfolk with the festival going on. Isaac does stop by the WLA and does some research on Queen Mabb. But dosn't seem to have any luck.
Know Local: (14) Know nature: (4)
Kristoph: (Stephen C) | AC:17 | CMD:22 | HP: 25/25 - Blusinda: AC:13 | HP:21/21 Wednesday March 2nd, 2022 6:45:23 AM
Kristoph enjoys the colours and buys a green ribbon. He puts some time in (ear!y each morning) with his apprenticeship at the blacksmiths and then settles into the celebrations.
Einar (StevenVdB) - HP27/27 - AC18/13/15 - CMD 18 Wednesday March 2nd, 2022 7:42:41 AM
Well rested Einar joins his friends downstairs. Selene also has green ribbons in her hair following the apparent clothing style at the moment. She has started to get well integrated and enjoys her work in the pub.
Einar doesn't do well with green ribbons... so he's just curious to see what the festival is all about.
(apologies for the bad postings lately. RL was all over me but I think I will get everything back under control now. )
Gore'Thum and Teddy Treeborn (Mitch) HP -1/14AC 12/11/12 CMD 11 Gore'Thum HP 1/23AC 12/12/11 Wednesday March 2nd, 2022 9:14:15 AM
Gore’Thum is curious about what’s going on but when he finds out gets grumpy and retreats to the room. People also mistake him for some fey creature but he was birthed by Sar’s glorious mutations and resents impertinent questions he gets about fey affairs. So he pulls Teddy into a particularly intense private magic training session.
“Benni” AC 18/11/17 CMD12 HP 13/13 Onesimos (SteveK) d20+6=7 ; d20+5=18 ; Wednesday March 2nd, 2022 11:20:50 AM
Onesimos comes downstair to break his fast, thanking Selene with a bow and whispered blessing.
Hopefully, the elf is wearing a new green cloak with the WLA badge (that is, if he was allowed.)
He looks forward to telling the stories of the gods and powers. Mostly Flower, of course, but also Ma’ab and the Crones and others.
Know Religion. 7 Perform Oratory. 18
Snark Riverstone (MarkB) AC13 T13 F10, CMD 11, HP 15/15 d20+7=17 ; Wednesday March 2nd, 2022 12:49:23 PM
Snark trots downstairs in the morning. "Oooo, a festival! I like festivals!" The little gnome reaches up high to put some silver on the bar and then goes over to get some food!
He asks a few questions, gleaning a bit of info here and there (Knowledge local 17.) He shares what he knows with his friends.
"Seems for most folks here, this festival is a time to get drunk and meet people. I expect they're gonna have a bunch of feasts and celebrations all week, and all of this is to honor the Crones.
"They're kind of an odd bunch, those Crones. There's five of 'em ya see, and they all seem to have some body part missing and a corresponding power. The creepyest one is Lady Sorrow. She'll scare the bejeebers out of you if you ever see her. See, I got em all on this pendant my pap carved."
Snark holds up the carved wooden pendant he has from his father. He's glad that his usually green robes fit right in.
DM Jon: Fey Festival Wednesday March 2nd, 2022 3:25:42 PM
As today is the first day of the celebration, tonight will be a feast where several sheep and cows have been cleaned and will be cooked on spits over large fires. There will be a short time for prayers and story telling about the lost Woad Hunters, and some sharing of gossipy rumors on how the adventurers gathered the precious Woad (most a very far fetched, and hilarious to listen to).
An illuminator has been procured, he operates the lighthouse and usually stays to himself. He will be putting on a fireworks show (think of Gandalf's fireworks) twice during the week, the first night is tomorrow. The name he uses is Olostin. No one in town can pinpoint when he arrived, but the family that had run the lighthouse had to leave for whatever reason, and he showed up and just took over the responsibilities. The lighthouse is an easy day's walk, though getting to it can be tricky as it's on its own small island off the coast and the tides can impact taking a boat out to it.
Those party members who don't have green on will be offered something they can attach to a cloak or top, most often a bit of ribbon wrapped around a Woad bud (so not ready to have been harvested).
Gore'Thum and Teddy spend time in their room working on magical training
Issac and Kristoph both head for the Blacksmith, and then Issac moves on to do research
The Blacksmith has Kristoph help with finishing a candle holder that is very nice in design, as well, requires some delicate metal work to complete. Once that project is finished, he will have Kristoph work on making horseshoes and repairing some pieces to a wagon wheel. "You come back tomorrow and I'll have you help me repair and clean up some weapons and a suit of mail that were brought in but that I haven't got around to yet. I will be knocking off early tomorrow so I can get cleaned up. The missus likes the night show."
Einar is just immersing himself into the festival atmosphere
Benni will share what knowledge his knows of 'Flower, Ma’ab and the Crones and others,' to any who will listen, which most people will do
Snark seems keen on trading magical knowledge with another spellcaster, as well, learning more about the festival. When offered an item, someone is offering half masks covers eyes down to nose, or the twisted ribbons with flowers. Over the next few days, Snark builds his reputation as a "helpful person" around the community. [Items most request he 'mend' are fish/crab/lobster nets/traps, and minor household items]
Tae-Che, like her friends, spends time learning more about the festival, and sports a new green shirt, which several folks around her are envious of.
Snark Riverstone (MarkB) AC13 T13 F10, CMD 11, HP 15/15 Wednesday March 2nd, 2022 7:28:57 PM
Snark makes a quick trip to the Catacombs and pays a visit to the disorganized WLA booth. When he returns he makes sure the trees and honey and such are sold in town and then disperses cash to each of the party. (Amount will be disclosed once I get the OK from the Catacombs.)
Back in town, Snark will make sure his WLA pin is green and will rove about town turning various things green with Prestidigation, and mends things where he can. Hearing about this illuminator at the lighthouse, the little gnome will either pay this person a visit or wait until they come into town. He intends to see if this person is a wizard, and if he is, is he willing to let Snark copy a spell or two out of his spellbook.
Tae-Che (Jim) HP 9/9 AC 12/12/10 CMD 13 d20+8=14 ; Wednesday March 2nd, 2022 8:49:03 PM
Tae Che regales the townsfolk of her travels both old and new. She is happy to buy new items of green for those in need. She also continues to work on the bracelet. [Craft: Jewelry: 14]
Isaac Harker (Justin M) HP 24/24 AC20/ T14 / FF 18 Wednesday March 2nd, 2022 8:59:41 PM
Isaac gladly takes the offered Woad Ribbon pinning it to his chest next to the WLA badge. With every thing taken care for now he help with preparations and joining in the celebrations. He makes note to get a green vest tomorrow.
“Benni” AC 18/11/17 CMD12 HP 13/13 Onesimos (SteveK) Thursday March 3rd, 2022 1:55:16 AM
Onesimos gets an inspiration. When he learns the festival goes for seven days, he focuses his stories each day on one of the aspects of Flower’s love.
The first day, he tells stories of friendship and shared goodwill around a woman named Philia with two personalities. Good Philia showed mutual benefit, companionship, dependability, and trust. Selfish Philia lacked self-esteem and stagnated into not feeling other types of love.
The second day, his stories revolve around familial love: the fondness born out of familiarity or dependency (e.g. love between parents and children). It tends to be asymmetrical, but extends safety for long periods allowing growth of other loves. And warns against Selfish Storge’: a more permanent dependency, leading to taking the nurturer for granted (‘child’), or Munchausen’s by proxy (‘parent’).
Einar (StevenVdB) - HP27/27 - AC18/13/15 - CMD 18 Thursday March 3rd, 2022 5:35:08 AM
Einar spends time training at the WLA training grounds. His Falcion now has a bright green ribbon around the hilt.
When not training he checks if there are things he can help with. He used to help his father in the smithy but he wouldn't mind shopping wood either.
Gore'Thum and Teddy Treeborn (Mitch) HP -1/14AC 12/11/12 CMD 11 Gore'Thum HP 1/23AC 12/12/11 Thursday March 3rd, 2022 6:17:31 AM
Though Gore'Thum just wants to avoid it all Teddy is eager to see the festival and can't train forever. With it lasting a week Gore'Thum succumbs to the inevitable and follows along to keep an eye on Teddy as he oohs and aahs at all the festivities.
Kristoph: (Stephen C) | AC:17 | CMD:22 | HP: 25/25 - Blusinda: AC:13 | HP:21/21 Thursday March 3rd, 2022 3:12:32 PM
Making a candelabra was a fun start and a little tricky at first and all good practice when it comes to wagon wheels and he nods to the Smithy on the way out. Enjoy the festivities "! Kristoph isn't a story-teller but he enjoys listening to others. Blusinda accompanies him around the celebrations.
Isaac Harker (Justin M) HP 24/24 AC20/ T14 / FF 18 Thursday March 3rd, 2022 8:14:33 PM
Isaac takes time from celebrating and talks to the sheriff and tells him if he needs any help while during the festival he can call on Isaac.
Tae-Che (Jim) HP 9/9 AC 12/12/10 CMD 13 Thursday March 3rd, 2022 8:44:19 PM
Tae Che helps out where she's able with festival duties.
DM Jon: Fey Festival Thursday March 3rd, 2022 9:26:19 PM
For the most part, chopping and gathering wood for the bonfires is a task everyone is invited to help with. Also, helping the fishermen gather in their catches and then search through them for "special fish." What makes them special? The fishermen just smile and wink and answer with, "You'll see in a few days."
Others needing assistance: Ladies hunting for fresh berries and fruit around the region (within and hour or two at most away from the town); setting up of long tables and benches made from fresh cut logs; setting up small vendor style tents/stations; children are seen hunting down small white rocks, and anyone asking them will be told "they are for something the adults are doing this week"; hanging up green dyed clothing and assorted other cloth items (ribbons, table clothes, etc).
Although they already have a positive reputation in the community, that the party members are willing to pitch in and get dirty helping with the Festival earns them brownie points, pinches on the cheeks, giggling kisses, and sweets (candy) pressed into their hands.
While searching for their rocks, the children are all abuzz about the Illuminator coming, typical comments heard are, "I hope he makes the big booming ones," and, "Do you think we'll get little ones to set off ourselves like last year," and one that seems to be a more serious topic, "Who do you think he will pick as his assistant?"
As the sun begins to set the sky seems to explode in a multitude of colors. It is against this backdrop that the town council remembers the fallen woad hunters for their bravery, with each member sharing a tidbit about each one. This goes on for almost an hour. By that time the sun has set and the sky becomes bright from the several large bonfires that are lit. Food and drink, music, singing and dancing are all in abundance. The single ladies will target the "unattached" males in the crowd, including the party members, same for the unattached males seeking ladies' hands for dancing. GoreThum and Teddy are approached by a giggling group of girls (12yo's) who want them to dance with them in a group, so no one is left out.
The festivities begin to dwindle down by 10pm, with specific adults set to make sure the bonfires are out so they don't cause fires.
“Benni” AC 18/11/17 CMD12 HP 13/13 Onesimos (SteveK) Friday March 4th, 2022 1:21:42 AM
Onesimos helps with the setting up of the festivity ares: tents, booths, and even the big tables: he is stronger than he looks! While there, he only has his Starknife and woven symbol of Flower. He keeps an ear out for the stone and Berry gathers in case there was notes of danger.
Thankfully, it seems everyone is able to enjoy the festival too. Food, drink, memorials, and fireworks are all enjoyable to the elf. When the music starts, Benni has no objection in being grabbed by a fetching lady and dragged to the dance. Not skilled, he enjoys himself immensely; he’s only 160 after all!
Gore'Thum and Teddy Treeborn (Mitch) HP -1/14AC 12/11/12 CMD 11 Gore'Thum HP 1/23AC 12/12/11 Friday March 4th, 2022 7:02:18 AM
Teddy, not being very strong, goes out and helps pick berries. Gore'Thum comes along too as that gets him out of town.
Einar (StevenVdB) - HP27/27 - AC18/13/15 - CMD 18 Friday March 4th, 2022 8:18:21 AM
By the time the fireworks start, Selene is free from work so Einar enjoys the fireworks with her. As he watches his mind dwells on the past they ran away from, the present they are living and the future they still have to create.
Kristoph: (Stephen C) | AC:17 | CMD:22 | HP: 25/25 - Blusinda: AC:13 | HP:21/21 Friday March 4th, 2022 1:53:58 PM
Kristoph doesn't have time for relationships (he tells himself) but ends up dancing after a few ales.
As the sky explodes he watches it with Blusinda who always seems to look worried when the sun dips below the horizon. He reassures her by hugging her. He continues to extinguish his arm twice. Result!
Snark Riverstone (MarkB) AC13 T13 F10, CMD 11, HP 15/15 d20+3=7 ; d20+5=9 ; Friday March 4th, 2022 6:18:03 PM
Snark with go to help locate berries as best he can (Survival 7, Profession Herbalist 9.)
Later, he enjoys the fireworks and will ask about this this illuminator at the lighthouse, hoping to meet the man.
As for the women in town, Snark keeps his eye out for any his size. He'll show a little curiosity he carries - bottled Mythal from Fae Skiemir the lost Elven City. It changes colors and plays muffled sounds.
Tae-Che (Jim) HP 9/9 AC 12/12/10 CMD 13 Friday March 4th, 2022 9:09:38 PM
Tae Che works with the setup of the tents and stalls, is enthralled by the fireworks, and is quite willing to dance the night away with xeveryone.I
Isaac Harker (Justin M) HP 24/24 AC20/ T14 / FF 18 d20+3=17 ; d20+2=5 ; Friday March 4th, 2022 9:31:06 PM
Isaac decides to chop and carry fire wood since it seemed most appropriate to his skill set.
He listens to the others talk about about the past festivals and from what he can tell they sound fun. It reminds him of the few Guard parties he attended while he was in Hook City. He does ask one of the workers what the Assistant of the Illuminator does.
During the dancing Isaac decides to dance with the girls that ask him but he warns them he's not very skilled at it. As the day winds down he heads back home feeling good about the festival and the coming week. Perform Dancing ?: (17) Dancing Dex check ? : (5)
DM Jon: Fey Festival Friday March 4th, 2022 10:40:55 PM
Everyones skill at dancing may start well, but after many drinks and switching partners, and such, nobody cares about toes stepped on, or maneuvers missed.
In the morning the smell of sweet cinnamon can be smelled from all around. Plate sized cinnamon rolls are offered to everyone. When asked where the usual fare is, the cook offers a sly smile and reply, "I've got stuff brewing that needs time and my special touch. These are easy to roll out and bake to let the oven warm up. There's mulled cider, hot and cold, over younger on that table.
The table he points to is covered in bottles and flagons and a small barrel, which contains something steaming. There are also large chunks of fresh butter sitting out for the cinnamon rolls.
Seated at a table is a man, of indeterminant age. He is slowly picking at a cinnamon roll, while staring at a large book which is float about a foot off his table. He seems to be mumbling to himself, but as the party watches, the pages flip about 5, and he remarks, "You always go to this page, turn it back, I don't need to be reminded about the girl I left."
Today's mood and requests are more preparing eating spaces around the large field. Apparently some kind of eating contests are scheduled, this is from a hand written poster next to the front door. There is also a table with small packages wrapped in cloth, with a note that states, "Take one so you may vote for your favorites." Inside the package are 5 small white rocks.
“Benni” AC 18/11/17 CMD12 HP 13/13 Onesimos (SteveK) d20+5=21 ; Saturday March 5th, 2022 4:06:21 AM
Onesimos comes down from his small room, disheveled and happy. The last night was a blur of dancing and music and drinks that made him feel a part of the community. The cinnamon rolls are a small surprise but not disappointing. He has one and studies the magical man before selecting a package and going outside with a shrug (the elf feels he doesn’t want to be bothered).
He wanders the festival grounds and tells stories again. This time, they center on the Wold in general and the feelings of the unselfish concern for the welfare of others (e.g. strangers or nature, altruism, selflessness, and a ‘pay it forward’ attitude). With a few stories on the danger of taking it too far, of self-righteousness and forcing others to follow the persons’ own path as the only way.
Perform Oratory. 21
Snark Riverstone (MarkB) AC13 T13 F10, CMD 11, HP 15/15 Saturday March 5th, 2022 8:58:35 PM
Snark is interested to see a magical man sitting at the table. He walks over and introduces himself.
"Good morning, good sir. I am Snark Riverstone, a wizard recently arrived with some friends. You know, I have an item ... let's see here ... ah, there it is. I have an item, more of a curiosity really. I am told it is Bottled Mythal from the fabled Elvin City of Fae Skiemir. Not sure I really believe where it's from, but it's a pretty thing." He puts the stoppered bottle on the table. The bottle changes colors and plays muffled sounds, so perhaps it would be a good conversation starter for someone with a floating book.
The little gnome is glad the man is seated so he doesn't have to reach up much to shake his hand.
DM Jon: Fey Festival Saturday March 5th, 2022 10:27:03 PM
The man looks startled for a moment, then looks at Snark, "Hmmm, an acolyte of the arts. What's this, well that's an interesting bauble." Snark's bottle begins to lift off the table and slowly turn, the man sighs, "Sorry, he has a penchant for not listening to me, and for 'being too nosy, now put down the lad's bottle." The bottle gently gets placed back on the table. "Sorry about that, unseen servants seem to gain a modicum of curiosity over time. Now then, are you a member of the group that brought that tasty honey back from the swamp?"
Issac & Kristoph return to the Blacksmith, who has them working on gathering supplies for the forge, and then help him produce some steel bars for later. After lunch, he has them help him with making several damascus pattern daggers (more work knives than daggers). With the two he is able to produce three before knocking off for the night as the dinner bell is rung.
Benni and his stories draw a crowd who want more stories when he finishes one. His crowd is a mix of older children and adults who don't have other tasks.
Einar, Tae Che, GoreThum & Teddy are all sought after by the younger crowd for playing hide n seek, tag, and other games, more for keeping them from doing "chores" and because the party is the "shiny new toy" to play with.
Olostim, who has been talking with Snark all day at the Inn, has chosen Snark as his assistant for the nights fireworks. Several of the children hoping to hold that position make faces at the gnome, until their parents realize what they are doing and grab them by their ears. Olostim has Snark check the position of his 50 or so large fireworks prior to lighting them. The show takes a good couple of hours, and finishes with a large golden dragon that explodes in an extremely loud BOOM and then fills the sky with crackles. Olostim nudges Snark at that point, "Took me a month to put that one together, I think it was a hit." Another night of music, drinking, and dancing commences.
Olostim mutters as several single women start heading his way, he nudges Snark, "Let's get back to the Inn and some mulled wine and we can discuss the real reason you sought me out."
Gore'Thum and Teddy Treeborn (Mitch) HP -1/14AC 12/11/12 CMD 11 Gore'Thum HP 1/23AC 12/12/11 d6=3 ; Sunday March 6th, 2022 12:24:18 AM
Gore'Thum proves a surprisingly adapt dancer. Though he isn't able to do them as a human would he proves a quick study and adapts them as best he can to his body type. Soon he's out dancing like a native. Teddy is not so, his timid nature and uncertainty constantly making him second guess himself so that others bump into him or he misses his queue. He still tries though.
In the morning they enjoy the rolls and leave the strange man to his studies. Being strange themselves they know how anoying it can be when a bunch of people come over to ask you about your strangeness.
Tae-Che (Jim) HP 9/9 AC 12/12/10 CMD 13 Sunday March 6th, 2022 9:54:21 PM
Tae Che continues to assist townsfolk and keep the little ones at play. She is awed by the fireworks.
Snark Riverstone (MarkB) AC13 T13 F10, CMD 11, HP 15/15 Monday March 7th, 2022 12:06:01 AM
Snark is grateful for Olostim attention, and for the privilege of helping him with the fireworks. He's not sure he'd ever get used to being around so many things that could blow up, and he's a bit relieved when the show is over and he can return to the inn with this man.
Olostim asks about the reason Snark sought him out.
"Well, I was originally apprenticed to a Dwarven mage in Hook City. His name was Darius. He was not a nice fella, and more than one I saw him use his magic to cheat people out of their money. I left one night with what I was due and caught the next ship out.
"I was looking for some honest mages in Heranmar, hoping to maybe swap some spells with them or maybe copy a spell or two if they don't mind. Are there any more mages in Heranmar than just us two? And how did you come to be here?"
Einar (StevenVdB) - HP27/27 - AC18/13/15 - CMD 18 Monday March 7th, 2022 4:42:33 AM
When morning comes the scent of cinnamon rolls lures Einar downstairs. If there's one thing he's fond of it's cinnamon... Quietly he joins at the table and has breakfast. As he eats he observes the ones in the Inn.
Kristoph: (Stephen C) | AC:17 | CMD:22 | HP: 25/25 - Blusinda: AC:13 | HP:21/21 Monday March 7th, 2022 6:41:09 AM
Kristoph comes down and inhales the cinnamon aroma ..... Delicious and he digs in. Enjoying the relaxed, carefree town and it's atmosphere.
At some point he looks for a martial class to keep fit (ooc looks for a karate/boxing type class or club)
“Benni” AC 18/11/17 CMD12 HP 13/13 Onesimos (SteveK) Monday March 7th, 2022 12:19:54 PM
Onesimos enjoys telling stories, the food and dancing, and is very impressed by the booming colored pyrotechnics. Amazing! He dances well into the night, happily passing and being passed from one circling partner to another.
Late, late back in the tavern, he has a warm tea while calming down before bed.
DM Jon: Fey Festival Monday March 7th, 2022 2:34:21 PM
After the fireworks...
The party trickles back into the Inn. Though most or all of the staff have gone for the night, there is a cauldron of hot peppermint and chamomile tea with 'swamp honey' (what the sign says) to sweeten it on a table covered in mugs. There is also a small keg (3 gallons) of hefeweizen with mugs for those who aren't into tea. The beer has a distinctive taste as it was brewed with woad from the year before and left to age.
Olostim leads Snark to a table close to the fire, and the two are followed by two mugs. Once at the table, the older wizard pulls a bottle out from somewhere and fills the mugs with rich hot chocolate laced with peppermint schnapps.
"Now that hits the spot. Other casters in the region, I don't know. Maybe. I pretty much keep to myself except for the celebration, and when I need something that I didn't have delivered. Most in town still consider me a "newcomer" even though I've kept the lighthouse working for several years now." After taking a fair-sized drink he continues "Using his magics to cheat others, that's what gives our lot a bad name. Of course, the one I learned under wasn't much better, the things I watched him do sometimes gave me shivers. But he was patient with me, help me explore our craft, and I still seek him out at times with questions on research. Now, as to why I came here. No real reason I guess. I was looking for something, not sure what now. I'd been hiring my services on ships, and enjoying myself at sea, well once I got used to standing and being able to eat. Came by here a couple of times. Last trip I heard the family who'd run the lighthouse had to leave. As soon as I saw the place, and it's solitube, I told the Council I'd keep the flame lit. What about you, why are you and your group here?"
************************************************************************************************************** OOC: I'm gonna run some info down here for the rest of the party, as this conversation may take a bit **************************************************************************************************************
Day 3 of the Festival - Games and Challenge's Day There will be games of skill in arms, riding, shooting, lifting, running, and fishing for adults and children There will also be food challenges going on throughout the day, thus the need for the white rocks. The categories are: Soup/Stew/Chili, Baked Goods (not desert), Baked Goods (desert), Beer/Wine/Cider, and Fish (of course)
Many of the prizes will be clothing items made with Woad-colored cloth. Several masterwork quality daggers and other sundry items are also prizes. "Good-natured' betting is agreeable, labor can be substituted for money, 1 hour = 1 gold.
Breakfast fare is bread, butter, honey, fresh fruits, eggs with cheese, crab and fish cakes fried in bear fat (a special festival food), as well, fresh milk, hot tea, and coffee (a delicacy that is provided by Olostim as payment for goods delivered to his lighthouse)
The morning is set aside for setting up arenas, targets, marking off distances for thrown and fired items. The blacksmith, with Issac and Kristoph (and anyone else) will offer free shoeing, and repairs to weapons and armor prior to and following the games.
Benni has a group of 'followers' waiting for more stories, and to ply him with sweets/treats for 'just one more' story
Tae-Che, Einar, Teddy and GoreThum are all invited to help clear paths for an obstacle course through the woods, to mark out distances of targets set up in and on trees in the region for the archery contest, and to keep an eye out for those who may try to "increase their chances of winning," by any means ... they are given beret's with special feathers on them denoting they are 'game judges'.
Tae-Che (Jim) HP 9/9 AC 12/12/10 CMD 13 Monday March 7th, 2022 7:13:32 PM
Tae Che takes aim at being a judge for all types of the games especially the targets and obstacle course
Isaac Harker (Justin M) HP 24/24 AC20/ T14 / FF 18 Monday March 7th, 2022 8:06:07 PM
Isaac enjoys the breakfast but finds the bear fat fried fish not to his liking the bear taste to him is very over whelming. The coffee however is delightful after he mixes it with some milk and sugar. Isaac will participate in the one of the games of skill (dueling I guess?) He helps the blacksmith despite his lack of blacksmithing skills until his event is called.
Snark Riverstone (MarkB) AC13 T13 F10, CMD 11, HP 15/15 Monday March 7th, 2022 11:44:54 PM
The gnome takes a long drink of the cocoa and schnapps. "Ooof. Now that's good! Thanks much!
"I grew up moving around some, but usually in a forest somewhere. My pap taught me to be a wood carver, but one day he left and never came back. My mom wouldn't say much, just that he had to leave for an important task. He was a member of the WLA, and I'd sure like to find out more about him someday. So I set about to travel, and that travel eventually brought me here.
"I lived with goblins for a couple years. They're as bad as people say they are. And then I was on a ship for a bit.
"As to how we all got here, well, everyone seems to be here for their own reasons. But fate seems to have brought us all together here in Heranmar. And we've already been able to save a life or two. So that's something."
"But in a more immediate sense, I'm working to improve my craft. And a big part of that is findin' more spells to cast. Any chance you'd be willing to share some spells? Anything you think I could give you in return?"
Gore'Thum and Teddy Treeborn (Mitch) HP -1/14AC 12/11/12 CMD 11 Gore'Thum HP 1/23AC 12/12/11 d20+3=17 ; d20+4=5 ; Tuesday March 8th, 2022 4:42:47 AM
Teddy is happy to play games with the children. Gore'Thum flatly refuses to play, but somehow gets volunteered to be base for the game of hide and seek. He silently endures it, and doesn't say refuse or just walk away like might be expected.
Gore'Thum takes the judging job and treats it with solemn dignity. He warns any potential cheaters that they will be eaten. Of course he's not serious as evident when he catches someone trying to cheat, he merely gives them a terse, stern talking to and reports them to the organizers (perception 17). Teddy is far to nervous being in charge of anything to be really effective at spotting any cheaters (perception 5).
Einar (StevenVdB) - HP27/27 - AC18/13/15 - CMD 18 Tuesday March 8th, 2022 7:45:50 AM
Einar is happy to help out with the obstacle course.
“Benni” AC 18/11/17 CMD12 HP 13/13 Onesimos (SteveK) Tuesday March 8th, 2022 2:42:46 PM
Onesimos gives a pleased smile seeing his small group of story listeners. ”Friendship. Family. The Wold. So far, my stories have told of three loves that dwells in every noble heart. Although the good of the love can turn selfish, friends and community can support each of us on the Good path. Let me tell you today of playful love.”
And so the elf’s stories revolve around playful love. Casual, undemanding, and uncomplicated. It even includes gentle teasing, dancing, even overt flirting. But then, selfish play could arise when one person mistakes playfulness for passion. But playful is more like brotherly whereas ludus is, in fact, much more like friendship and shared goodwill.
Kristoph: (Stephen C) | AC:17 | CMD:22 | HP: 25/25 - Blusinda: AC:13 | HP:21/21 Tuesday March 8th, 2022 4:54:14 PM
As Benni speaks he sees Kristoph listening. After he may have been smiling a little bit more as he walks off, pondering the words.
Tae-Che (Jim) HP 9/9 AC 12/12/10 CMD 13 Tuesday March 8th, 2022 8:10:23 PM
Tae Che let's her cloak hood fall back, showing her light pink hair. She squints during the rest of the day
DM Jon: Fey Festival Tuesday March 8th, 2022 10:25:20 PM For Snark "Well. Small problem there. My spellbooks are all at home. I only memorize spells I plan on using while I'm here, typically repairing stuff, and putting out fires. Hmmm, tell you what, talk this over with your friends, you come to the lighthouse and help me with a couple of things at some point in the future, and I'll get you one of my lower-level books to look over, how does that sound?"
************************************************************************************************************************** Ok, this is completely out of my head, so I apologize if it makes no sense at all, lol
Obstacle Course – Acrobatics DC 15 Highlight to display spoiler: { You placed in the lower numbers, roll % and see below } Obstacle Course – Acrobatics DC 20 Highlight to display spoiler: { You placed in the middle of the pack, roll % and see below } Obstacle Course – Acrobatics DC 25 Highlight to display spoiler: { You place in the leader pack, roll % and see below }
Archery – Ranged DC 15 Highlight to display spoiler: { You placed in the lower numbers, roll % and see below } Archery - Ranged DC 20 Highlight to display spoiler: { You placed in the middle of the pack, roll % and see below } Archery - Ranged DC 25 Highlight to display spoiler: { You place in the leader pack, roll % and see below }
Martial – Melee DC 15 Highlight to display spoiler: { You placed in the lower numbers, roll % and see below } Martial – Melee DC 20 Highlight to display spoiler: { You placed in the middle of the pack, roll % and see below } Martial – Melee DC 25 Highlight to display spoiler: { You place in the leader pack, roll % and see below }
Unarmed – Melee DC 15 Highlight to display spoiler: { You placed in the lower numbers, roll % and see below } Unarmed – Melee DC 20 Highlight to display spoiler: { You placed in the middle of the pack, roll % and see below } Unarmed – Melee DC 25 Highlight to display spoiler: { You place in the leader pack, roll % and see below }
Eating Contest – FORT Save DC 15 Highlight to display spoiler: { You placed in the lower numbers, roll % and see below } Eating Contest – FORT Save DC 20 Highlight to display spoiler: { You placed in the middle of the pack, roll % and see below } Eating Contest – FORT Save DC 25 Highlight to display spoiler: { You place in the leader pack, roll % and see below }
Lower Group – 01-15% Highlight to display spoiler: { You took 7th place, you win a lovely ribbon and a pound of smoked fish } Lower Group – 16-30% Highlight to display spoiler: { You took 6th place, you win a lovely ribbon, and a pound of beef jerky } Lower Group – 31-45% Highlight to display spoiler: { You took 5th place, you win a ribbon and a pound of homemade huckleberry jam in a small crock } Lower Group – 46-60% Highlight to display spoiler: { You took 4th place, you win a ribbon and a pound of homemade herbal tea (from local flowers and herbs), plus a handmade mug and a small container of the swamp honey } Lower Group – 66-75% Highlight to display spoiler: { You took 3rd place, you win a ribbon, and a pound of homemade chocolate (look up Abuelita chocolate) } Lower Group – 76-90% Highlight to display spoiler: { You took 2nd place, you win a small hand-carved trophy, and a dozen MW arrows } Lower Group – 91-00% Highlight to display spoiler: { You took 1st place. You win a trophy that’s about a foot tall, and a MW work knife (does damage as dagger, not designed to be thrown) }
Middle Group – 01-25% Highlight to display spoiler: { You took 4th place, you win a ribbon and a pound of homemade herbal tea (from local flowers and herbs), plus a handmade mug and a small container of the swamp honey } Middle Group – 26-50% Highlight to display spoiler: { You took 3rd place, you win a ribbon, and a pound of homemade chocolate (look up Abuelita chocolate) } Middle Group – 51-75% Highlight to display spoiler: { You took 2nd place, you win a small hand-carved trophy, and a dozen MW arrows } Middle Group – 76-00% Highlight to display spoiler: { You took 1st place. You win a trophy that’s about a foot tall, and a MW work knife (does damage as dagger, not designed to be thrown) }
Leader Group – 01-33% Highlight to display spoiler: { You took 3rd place, you win a small trophy, and a handmade fishing pole and tackle kit (add +2 when attempting to catch a fish) } Leader Group – 34-66% Highlight to display spoiler: { You took 2nd place, you win a small hand-carved trophy, and a dozen MW arrows } Leader Group - 67-00% Highlight to display spoiler: { You took 1st place. You win a trophy that’s about a foot tall, and a MW work knife (does damage as a dagger, not designed to be thrown) }
Judges – you are given a badge to wear – each challenge/game you judge a ribbon is added to your badge – after each competition, the judges are “paid” with a “goody bag” of their choice: 1lb of beef jerky 1lb of smoked fish 1lb of homemade cheese 1lb of homemade jam (huckleberry, or mixed berry) 3 small loaves of dense trail bread (sweet, dark bread with nuts/grains/fruit mixed in) a small well-made quilt (twin bed size, newly dyed green and other colors, and pieces of old blankets that were taken apart to recycle) 1lb of tea, with a small pot of swamp honey (the tea is made from local herbs/flowers) Handmade all-weather tarp (twin bed size) 1lb of dehydrated vegetables (for adding to food when on the road or out fishing) 3 handmade beeswax candles (each burns for 6 hours – and puts off a citronella/citrus scent)
Isaac Harker (Justin M) HP 24/24 AC20/ T14 / FF 18 Tuesday March 8th, 2022 11:15:14 PM
Isaac keeps busy until he hears the martial contest called then rushes over. (Will roll in next post)
Kristoph: (Stephen C) | AC:17 | CMD:22 | HP: 25/25 - Blusinda: AC:13 | HP:21/21 d20+6=8 ; d20-1=1 ; d20+5=11 ; d20+6=12 ; d20+5=7 ; Wednesday March 9th, 2022 4:26:44 AM
Kristoph sucks at everything. Is unable to use a bow (but has a go) and is reminded that he really can't use a bow (1). Doesn't make the grade on martial (11) and so on... it's pitiful. Maybe he is still feeling the effects of the copious amounts of ale the night before!? He has fun though.
(Wow I rolled 2,2,6,6 and 2)
Gore'Thum and Teddy Treeborn (Mitch) HP -1/14AC 12/11/12 CMD 11 Gore'Thum HP 1/23AC 12/12/11 Wednesday March 9th, 2022 6:09:46 AM
Gore'Thum doesn't participate in any of the contests and stands as judge, the perfect picture of solemn dignity. Except while also being a giant frog. Teddy gets so wrapped up in cheering for the contestants during the first contest he tries to judge that he forges to actually keep track of who won what place. He is not asked to judge any more contests and becomes a mere enthusiastic spectator.
“Benni” AC 18/11/17 CMD12 HP 13/13 Onesimos (SteveK) d20+3=18 ; d20+4=23 ; d100=66 ; d100=98 ; Wednesday March 9th, 2022 10:29:18 AM
Onesimos doesn’t join any contest or become a judge; the elf is content to watch and applaud. Well, at first. But then he reasons the city (and his friends) getting to know he can use (at need) the Morningstar he carries, he joins the martial contest and the archery contest.
Martial. 18. 66%. He goes to the lower group but takes 3rd place, and wins a ribbon, and a pound of homemade chocolate. Which he promptly shared with everyone who wants a piece!
Archery. 23. 98%. Maybe it’s him being an elf, but Benni does better. He gets to the middle group and in a finals round where he can’t miss, and takes 1st place! A trophy about a foot tall, and a MW work knife!
Snark Riverstone (MarkB) AC13 T13 F10, CMD 11, HP 15/15 Wednesday March 9th, 2022 11:28:48 AM
Snark replies to Olostim, "Boy, that'd be great. I'm happy to help out. We don't have nothing going right now. When are you headed back to the lighthouse? We can go now if you like, or are you one of the judges in this contest?"
Snark will let his friend know when he goes to the lighthouse with Olostim. If the wizard is not going back for a while, Snark will volunteer as one of the judges himself.
Isaac Harker (Justin M) HP 24/24 AC20/ T14 / FF 18 d20+5=16 ; d100=91 ; d20+8=19 ; d100=65 ; Wednesday March 9th, 2022 5:33:04 PM
Isaac enters the Martial contest and is surprised when he is called for the eating contest as well. Seems someone signed him up as a joke but he decides to compete anyway.
Martial;(91) Isaac takes first place in the Martial contest winning a Master work knife and a foot tall trophy. Eating contest(65):Isaac powers through the food as best he can but only manages 4th place. He gets a nice ribbon, some herbal tea (1pound), a handmade mug and a small jar of swamp honey.
After the eating contest Isaac takes a break trying not to throw up after eating all the food.
DM Jon: Fey Festival Thursday March 10th, 2022 12:34:07 AM
After the festivities of the challenegs and competitions, the cool evening breeze and smell of wood smoke helps start the end of a great day. For those who placed and won prizes, their escapades seem to grow by each telling & retelling, including the "Huge bear guarding the obstacle coarse, it was massive, and it reminded me not to cheat!" Other stories, especially those in the fishing contest, seemed to detail the length and girth of the fish caught, ending up with veritable sea creatures being drug up from the depths. Everyone is in a great mood. Dinner tonight is twice cooked goat (roasted on a spit, then buried under the ground with hot rocks while bathed in butter and herbs, or wrapped venison (venison is covered in a paste made of onions and garlic then rolled into bundles which are then wrapped in bacon and tied tight, and cooked on spits over fire. Roasted root vegetables, fresh loaves of cheese & rosemary bread seem to be in abundance as well.
It seems like the Council might get up to speak, when Olostim stands. For a moment silence seems to settle, ruefully chuckling, the mage says , "My friends, tomorrow night is the last night of fireworks. I have something special planned and would like the borrow of a boat ... and several helpers beyond Snark, now, do I have any volunteers?" . People can be heard murmuring when one of the older fisherman grunts and stands up, "Do you promise not to blow the Lucky Lay up, if'n so, then she's yours for the morrow. As for volunteers, I know some younger folk who have experience on the waters close to shore that would be willing to help." Olostim smiles and nods, "Should I blow her up, I'll simple find you a new 'Lady', how does that sound. In the morning then, I will meet with my volunteers and young Snark here. So go back to your feasting, as I'm the oldest one here, I'm off to the nice warm and comfy bed waiting for me. With that he wanders off, stopping by Snark and the party, "I'll find you in the morning young man, and if any of you want to help this old man out, that would be appreciated." Olostim calls over his shoulder, "Come along you, stop dallying." Several people gasp as his cloak and staff seem to stand up on their own and float over to Olostim, who can be heard to mutter, "showoff under his breath. One of the single ladies (why do I hear that song play in my head when I write that) in her 40's, wanders up, and whispers something in Olostim's ear. Snark and the party are close enough to see his face blush and a sly grin form on his face, as he holds his arm out and the two wander off together.
Once the children are put to bed, the music starts. Many of the songs played are old, fragments of music passed down from families. Some are accompanied by singing and dancing. The sky is bright with both moon and star light, as the hour approaches midnight. The last song, is started by the ladies, singing in a "round" and are soon joined by men also singing in a "round". The song ends in a quiet creshendo, ushering in thanks to the Crones, and thanks to all the participants for the day.
Tae-Che (Jim) HP 9/9 AC 12/12/10 CMD 13 d20+3=19 ; d100+3=16 ; Thursday March 10th, 2022 3:29:17 AM
Tae Che was surprised there was no knife throwing contest but she did try the archery and judged the unarmed contest. [Archery: 19 lower 13; 7th place]
Einar (StevenVdB) - HP27/27 - AC18/13/15 - CMD 18 d20+9=12 ; d100=64 ; d20+8=24 ; d100=2 ; Thursday March 10th, 2022 3:40:45 AM
Of course Einar happily joins some of the contests. He's guessing he should have a chance with the martial group and... the eating group perhaps. He's neither the nimblest nor good in fighting with his bare hands.
Martial : 12 / 64% : woah looks like Einar's having a bad day. Lower group and he doesn't get beyond 3rd place.
Eating contest : 24 / 2% : middle of the pack and a pound of smoked fish...
Well, the barbarian didn't do to well but at least he brings back some chocolate and some smoked fish that he'll happily share with the others.
Gore'Thum and Teddy Treeborn (Mitch) HP -1/14AC 12/11/12 CMD 11 Gore'Thum HP 1/23AC 12/12/11 Thursday March 10th, 2022 7:10:10 AM
Gore'Thum and Teddy relax after a long day of celebration and go to bed early.
Snark Riverstone (MarkB) AC13 T13 F10, CMD 11, HP 15/15 Thursday March 10th, 2022 12:20:50 PM
Snark is glad to take the three candles for his help judging, but it didn't really seem like much work.
Regarding Olostim's boast about his age, the gnome says to Benni and Tae Che, "Nah, you're both older 'n him. Just sayin."
He thanks Einar for the chocolate, enjoys the festivities and also goes to bed.
“Benni” AC 18/11/17 CMD12 HP 13/13 Onesimos (SteveK) Thursday March 10th, 2022 1:11:38 PM
Onesimos laughs at Snark’s quip and the elf gives a knowing look to his darker ‘cousin’. ”For some reason I think he feels the weight of years a little more. I will certainly volunteer to assist tomorrow!.”
As the night moves on after the children are abed, Benni’s stories change to another aspect of Flower: known as Eros. ”Passionate love can be Good or Selfish. Good aspects of Eros are a shared desire, and connects with friendship and family. But a warning: even passion should remember others! Selfish Eros is a dangerous madness promoted by Caerdoldra, devolving to animalistic desires above all else and lead to dependency, possessiveness, jealousy, and ignoring others’ feelings.”. And with that, the elf turns to the story of Flower and Caerdoldra and the Year of Ascension.
” It was a little over a hundred years ago, and I was a small child, but this is what happened in the great arena of Plateau City…”
“Benni” AC 18/11/17 CMD12 HP 13/13 Onesimos (SteveK) Thursday March 10th, 2022 1:13:48 PM
Onesimos laughs at Snark’s quip and the elf gives a knowing look to his darker ‘cousin’. ”For some reason I think he feels the weight of years a little more. I will certainly volunteer to assist tomorrow!.”
As the night moves on after the children are abed, Benni’s stories change to another aspect of Flower: known as Eros. ”Passionate love can be Good or Selfish. Good aspects of Eros are a shared desire, and connects with friendship and family. But a warning: even passion should remember others! Selfish Eros is a dangerous madness promoted by Caerdoldra, devolving to animalistic desires above all else and lead to dependency, possessiveness, jealousy, and ignoring others’ feelings.”. And with that, the elf turns to the story of Flower and Caerdoldra and the Year of Ascension.
” It was a little over a hundred years ago, and I was a small child, but this is what happened in the great arena of Plateau City…”
Kristoph: (Stephen C) | AC:17 | CMD:22 | HP: 25/25 - Blusinda: AC:13 | HP:21/21 Thursday March 10th, 2022 3:41:34 PM
After a run packed evening Kristoph gets some sleep
Tae-Che (Jim) HP 9/9 AC 12/12/10 CMD 13 Thursday March 10th, 2022 7:09:06 PM
Tae Che nods to Snark and Benni regarding the comment "age" of the old man. "We all have our own experiences in the past which we recall at times." She has some chocolate and then heads to bed
Isaac Harker (Justin M) HP 24/24 AC20/ T14 / FF 18 Thursday March 10th, 2022 9:09:29 PM
Isaac eats a light dinner still pretty full from the contest. His favorite is the goat and rosemary bread. He stays up and as the singing starts he keeps quite listening to the lyrics. After the song he heads to bed taking his prizes and wondering where he'll set up the trophy later.
Einar (StevenVdB) - HP27/27 - AC18/13/15 - CMD 18 Friday March 11th, 2022 3:26:20 AM
Having poor results in the contest does make Einar a bit cranky. Good thing he got some spending money from the swamp trip. Time to collect some gear and prep for future encounters.
(have to check the gold we won and then will go to the CC asap)
Snark Riverstone (MarkB) AC13 T13 F10, CMD 11, HP 15/15 Friday March 11th, 2022 11:53:54 AM
(Everyone but Snark got 1,740 gp. Snark kept that collar. Also, Benni has the key to the abbey)
Kristoph: AC:17/16/14 | CMD:22 | HP: 25/25 - Blusinda: AC:13 | HP:21/21 (Stephen C) Friday March 11th, 2022 4:34:30 PM
Kristoph rolls out of bed like a fruit fly stuck on honey. Two nights of partying was clearly too much for the young monk. Berating himself he dunks his head in cold water and goes for a run, then off to the BlacksSmiths.
There, all he is able to manage for the first 10 minutes is: "Effort clear brain".
Yeah, one of those days where it felt like a wheel tapper was testing the inside of his head for cracks.
Tae-Che (Jim) HP 9/9 AC 12/12/10 CMD 13 Friday March 11th, 2022 10:22:50 PM
Tae Che wakes early and walks around assisting anyone who needs it. She finishes a circuit and finds a place in the tavern.
Isaac Harker (Justin M) HP 24/24 AC20/ T14 / FF 18 Friday March 11th, 2022 10:31:14 PM
Come morning Isaac will try and go over to the blacksmith to see if his ticket is ready.
DM Jon: Fey Festival Friday March 11th, 2022 11:07:54 PM
The morning breaks with a slight mist coming in off the waters, but it burns off by 10am. The challenges of the day seem to relate to the fishing fleet, so racing and catching the biggest fish. Olostim, and those helping him, load onto the boat he's "borrowed," and head off the shore. He pulls a small device from a pocket, and seems to be taking measurements between the position of the sun, the lighthouse (which is visible now that the sun is out), and the center of Heranmar. Once he's found his 'spot,' he drops the anchor. "Ok boys. We're going to turn the boat into a floating launch platform for my largest displays. There are 9, that lead up to the finale piece. Should only take us an hour or two to get everything set up, then I'll get us back to shore. I heard rumor that someone is baking some fresh pies today, and I know where I can get something tasty to go with it."
Unfolding, and unfolding, and unfolding a small piece of cloth, Olostim creates a 5' hole that he puts on the deck, and then almost falls into. Looking at the tallest of the kids that came with he says, "Jump down in there and start handing those packages up. It's not deep, and there should be a light floating around in there. For a moment the young man looks worried, then one of his friends 'bumbs' him and he topples into the hole. He yells up, That wasn't funny, I'm gonna get you when we get back to shore!" Oddly shaped boxes begin making their way to the top of the hole. After then 9th, the young man says, "I don't think I can get the last one out by myself." Olostim snickers, and says, "Don't worry lad, I got this." Olostim then picks his hole up and hangs it on, or in, the air. The is immediately followed by a shout of terror from the young lad, who pushes an box out that's bigger than Snark. Seeing Olostim smiling, and hearing his friends giggling, the lad blushes and begins to move off, Olostim reaches out and stops him, "You did a brave thing going in that hole. I've been watching you the last few years. When you get to shore let your parents know I want to have a talk with them." Snark watches as the mage slips a small package into the boys hand before he joins his friends.
Looking over at Snark, Olostim mouths [I] potential [/]. With Snark's help Olostim attaches the finale piece to the mast. Once he is satisfied about the placement of everything, he nods, "Ok, who wants to give those other fishermen a run for their money. I think we might be able to catch a really big fish, what do you boys say? He ends with a nudge and a wink to Snark.
Those heading to the Smithy can hear him cussing up a storm about something. By the time the party members (not sure who wants to go, but I'm guessing Issac and Kristoph) show up, the doors are open, and it's evident that someone has reaaranged all the smith's tools. Grumbling, and seeing some help coming his way he sighs loudly, "Some miscreants have been doing mischief in here. There's some finish work on those barrel hoops over there, then that wagon hitch needs some braces added. As soon as I find me main hammer, I've got some steel I need to mix to make some arrowhead blanks for a couple of the hunters. Their fairly easy, but take a steady hand. If you boys want to stick around I'll make sure we get fed. There's some pies being baked today. There's no competition, but I guess those friends of yours, the bear and frog fellas must have discovered or led the way to some berry patches that were hidden when they were blazing the obstacle course. And a bunch of the ladies went out and picked them clean. That wizard friend of yours better watch out for himself and Olostim, or they may end up married if they aren't careful. My wife heard some of the ladies talking about how handsome both those lads are."
For Tae Che, GoreThum, Teddy, and Benni, hoards of children and young adults, and some older come looking for them for more stories, games, and for "chaperones" for wandering through the local woods.
Einar is able to escape being mobbed by people by making is way to spend the gold burning a hole in his money pouch.
Gore'Thum and Teddy Treeborn (Mitch) HP -1/14AC 12/11/12 CMD 11 Gore'Thum HP 1/23AC 12/12/11 Sunday March 13th, 2022 9:23:36 AM
Although Teddy has been enjoying the celebration he's starting to get peopled out. He and Gore'Thum lpay escort so they can spend the day in the quiet woods.
Snark Riverstone (MarkB) AC13 T13 F10, CMD 11, HP 15/15 d20+3=20 ; Sunday March 13th, 2022 8:09:57 PM "Let's get fishing."
Snark tries to use his survival skills to help. (survival 20!)
Gore'Thum and Teddy Treeborn (Mitch) HP -1/14AC 12/11/12 CMD 11 Gore'Thum HP 1/23AC 12/12/11 Sunday March 13th, 2022 11:21:43 PM
While out and about Teddy also picks some berries.
Einar (StevenVdB) - HP27/27 - AC18/13/15 - CMD 18 Monday March 14th, 2022 7:45:54 AM
Einar observes all that is going on but when he sees the gold he got seems to drag attention he quickly dashes of to the Catacombs.
“Benni” AC 18/11/17 CMD12 HP 13/13 Onesimos (SteveK) d20+5=13 ; Monday March 14th, 2022 7:52:18 AM
Onesimos is always ready for more stories. He takes a break of the day from reminding that ‘different loves are not the same and that’s fine’, to have his stories go in another direction. This time, he tells the stories of the rescue of the Woad Hunters. He turns it into several shorter stories so as not to bore his young audience, yet he still weaves the demonstration of loving each other, the community, and the Wold.
Perform Oratory 13
Kristoph: AC:17/16/14 | CMD:22 | HP: 25/25 - Blusinda: AC:13 | HP:21/21 (Stephen C) Monday March 14th, 2022 5:24:57 PM
Kristoph puts in some serious work. The celebrations and joy keeps his spirits lifted.
Tae-Che (Jim) HP 9/9 AC 12/12/10 CMD 13 d20+8=22 ; d20+8=22 ; Monday March 14th, 2022 7:15:48 PM
Tae Che takes the next day for herself and works on a necklace of green gemstones. Using the day, she did an awesome job.q
Isaac Harker (Justin M) HP 24/24 AC20/ T14 / FF 18 Monday March 14th, 2022 8:44:46 PM
Isaac makes his way over to the Smith to help out again. "Do you often get people messing about?" Isaac ask the smith as he also helps looks for the hammer. "I'll help with completing the hoops and arrows but your going to need walk me through it."
DM Jon: Fey Festival d20=16 ; Monday March 14th, 2022 11:14:50 PM
Issac's question makes the Smith shake his head, "No. usually the young ones are afraid of what I would do to them ... which is make them dig up dirt looking for ore. Oh, well, we must have some getting bold again.Thanks for the help, and I can walk you through the work, you've shown some good skills."
Kristoph's assistance also impresses the Smith, "You're doing some fine work there, either one of you gets tired of running around and sleeping out in the wilderness, I could train you well enough to own your own smithy, not around here, of course, I don't need the competition." With a good-natured laugh, the smithy rings with the sound of metal on metal.
Tae-Che spends time on her necklace. Only being interrupted by the Innkeep who brings her something to eat, and some cool blackberry vanilla tea. "That looks lovely dear. Is this a hobby, or a true profession?"
While GoreThum and Teddy are out picking berries, they find a patch of lovage mixed in with wild carrots, all of which looks ready to harvest.
Benni "The Storyteller" as he's being called by the younger crowd shares about the Woad hunters. Some of the listeners get a little green at the combat scenes and the creatures the group had to face, but overall the crowd appreciates hearing about what happened.
Olostim, Snark, and two of the older boys spend several hours fishing. The heaviest fish is caught by Snark with help from the other three. It's a lovely 10 pound bass. Olostim looks it over, "I don't know if this will win anything, but is a nice fish and would feed a few family's if you don't want it."
Although Snark's bass didn't win first place, he did win a consolation prize of a handmade fishing pole, tackle kit, and a fishing net designed for creeks and small streams.
That night's dinner is fish stew served with fresh biscuits and bread, followed by a large variety of fresh baked pies and some cakes.
Olostim's voice can be heard once the sky darkens enough, "Ladies and gentlemen, and everyone in between, that you for the wonderful time we've had. I know the celebration still has a day or two, but I must return to the Lighthouse, so without further ado... Fireworks begin going off - Snark can tell they aren't from the boat ... almost after an hour of oohs, awes, and ohhhs Snark recognizes a display the he and the boys helped set up on the boat. For almost 30 minutes, a series of explosions rock the sky, getting larger and louder, until the final piece goes off. The mast of the boat catches fire as the piece lifts off. High into the sky it goes, and explodes into a scene of dragons fighting. Those who are knowledgeable about arcane matters can tell the piece has been enhanced by magic. As the battle continues, flames that feel hot pour over the crowd, as does the charges coming off the lightning from the other drake. In the end the two slam into each other with a BOOM that rocks all the boats tied up to the docks and knocks a few people in the crowd over. The sky lights up into the smiling face of Olostim, who then winks and is gone. The crowd explodes in cheers, and then someone yells "PIES" and a mad rush begins as children and adults surge towards the bakers' and their goodies. The night ends with many overful bellies, and people talking about the fireworks display.
“Benni” AC 18/11/17 CMD12 HP 13/13 Onesimos (SteveK) Tuesday March 15th, 2022 1:14:58 AM
Onesimos is pleased, finding a place especially among the youngsters who are eager for his stories is well begun. For stories have morals and help how people act… and think. And the cleric has time. In a hundred years he will still be a vibrant elf, and these children’s grandchildren may just perhaps realize the wonderful complexity that is woven into a simple word such as ‘love’.
Benni also appreciates the various skills others show: fishing, cooking, crafting, and smith work. Oh, and he is bedazzled by the fireworks!
Kristoph: AC:17/16/14 | CMD:22 | HP: 25/25 - Blusinda: AC:13 | HP:21/21 (Stephen C) Tuesday March 15th, 2022 6:00:07 AM
Kristoph - to the smithy. "Thanks. I don't see myself settling anywhere long enough to start my own, but please teach me more though, I'm happy helping and learning"!
The monk is blown away by the fireworks.
After the display Kristoph casts ‘detect evil’ and strolls around concentrating. He just tries to get a feel for if and how many evil people there are in town. He will make a note of the faces and if he doesn't know them he will ask others who they are.
Gore'Thum and Teddy Treeborn (Mitch) HP -1/14AC 12/11/12 CMD 11 Gore'Thum HP 1/23AC 12/12/11 Tuesday March 15th, 2022 7:29:06 AM
Teddy and Gore'Thum greatly enjoy the fireworks. Teddy gets worried about the fisherman's boat though, hoping it won't burn down or be to badly damaged.
Snark Riverstone (MarkB) AC13 T13 F10, CMD 11, HP 15/15 Tuesday March 15th, 2022 5:04:49 PM
Snark is happy to give his fish away once it's weighed. He will go with Olostim to the wizard's lighthouse, after letting his friends know where he's headed.
Tae-Che (Jim) HP 9/9 AC 12/12/10 CMD 13 Tuesday March 15th, 2022 8:06:11 PM
Tae Che answers, "Profession. I've been training for decades now. I headed to Heranmar to start my own store. I know I need more inventory but I need to gain more gemstones. I also fix jewelry. "
She finishes up and heads out to watch the fireworks and hangout with her friends.
DM Jon: Fey Festival Tuesday March 15th, 2022 10:17:04 PM
Snark is finishing a piece of pie when he hears a POP behind him, then a hand on his shoulder, as Olostim says, "Ok lad. Let's go see what we can find for you at home. With that Olostim snaps his fingers and another POP occurs as the two spellcasters vanish in a small cloud of smoke.
In the morning, it's evident that Snark is still out with the wizard, as a note given to the first party member to make an appearance essentially states the obvious, "I'll be a day or two, maybe three as I work on spells."
There is another note as well, this from Einar, "I ran into, well not trouble, but something in the Catacombs. I need to deal with it. I will catch up if I can, if not, stay out of trouble my friends."
Breakfast is pancakes with apples baked into them. Warm butter and syrup, as well as berry compote, made from left over pie ingredients, is available. Again, hot coffee, hot tea, fresh milk, and other things are had to be drank.
As today is the last full day of the festival, some folks are beginning to break down the vendor tents, and eating tables. The smith is ready to show Kristoph and Issac how to make and fix barrel hoops, which he states, "Are always something that people will need." and arrowheads, "These take a fine hand, but too, once you're good at it, you can add your own flair. I have a couple of hunters for whom I make blunt headed arrows for bird hunting, and heads designed to be shot at fish. Field points are simple to do, and I have mols for those. The toughest are broadheads, which I see more as combat related, but that can be used against larger game as well.
As soon as Tae-Che makes an appearance, there are two younger ladies who wish to ask her about repairing a pair of bracelets, "Our mother made these for us, but we've grown since we got them. We were told you might be able to fix them so we can wear them again?"
Benni is again sought after for more stories, he does notice that many of the older teens seem to be on the look out for adults, as they are probably ditching chores to listen.
Teddy and GoreThum actually find the old man who owns the firework display boat looking for them, "Olostim said you two might be able to help me find a tree to make a new mast from. That sneaky wizard knew my boat needed some repairs, that's why I loaned it to him, no one else would trust him. He left me extra money to make those repairs, but I need a good straight tree. You boys think you can help me out?"
Kristophs question: Some of the folks around Kristoph look at him oddly as he casts a spell, but not seeing anything flashy, they simply just avoid eye contact with him. As Kristoph looks around at the people nearest him, no one detects as evil. Even pushing his vision outwards, there are no signs of evil, be it a person/place/item in close proximity to him
Gore'Thum and Teddy Treeborn (Mitch) HP -1/14AC 12/11/12 CMD 11 Gore'Thum HP 1/23AC 12/12/11 Wednesday March 16th, 2022 8:12:11 AM
Gore'Thum and Teddy are happy to help the search (Reminder to Kristoph: characters under level 5 do not set off detect evil. Or detect good or other spells like it)
Snark Riverstone (MarkB) AC13 T13 F10, CMD 11, HP 15/15 Wednesday March 16th, 2022 1:11:25 PM
Snark is not used to travelling in "pops", so it's a bit disorienting when we winds up, well, wherever he winds up.
"Holy moly Olostim - you gotta warn a guy before you do that! Are we at your place in the lighthouse?"
“Benni” AC 18/11/17 CMD12 HP 13/13 Onesimos (SteveK) d20+5=13 ; d20+10=29 ; Wednesday March 16th, 2022 4:59:32 PM
Onesimos tells two sets of stories over the last day that align with self-love and pragmatic love. The story is of a young centaur, unsure of himself but eager, and joins a mercenary company. Assigned to be in a group of misfits, they learn to trust each other’s skills and personalities and differences. They overcome many obstacles through duty of shared goals, and finding fulfillment in a common purpose. And in doing so, the young centaur learned self-esteem, which supports emotional resiliency, tolerance, forgiveness, and joy.
”So working together helps the community, and the feeling of accomplishment helps yourself grow, too. And so it is time, my young friends to put these stories to good use, and return to our chores. Off you go!”
He broods a bit over the sudden departure of Einar, quite a handy person to have in a fight! But the elf is philosophic: he has had many partings before and is resigned to have more over the centuries.
Perform Oratory 13 Sense Motive. 29
Kristoph: AC:17/16/14 | CMD:22 | HP: 25/25 - Blusinda: AC:13 | HP:21/21 (Stephen C) Wednesday March 16th, 2022 8:26:15 PM
(Thx Mitch did not know that)
Kristoph: AC:17/16/14 | CMD:22 | HP: 25/25 - Blusinda: AC:13 | HP:21/21 (Stephen C) Wednesday March 16th, 2022 8:28:15 PM
after a berry compote Kristoph absorbs everything the smithy shows him.
Isaac Harker (Justin M) HP 24/24 AC20/ T14 / FF 18 d20=2 ; Wednesday March 16th, 2022 9:17:47 PM
During the previous night Isaac quite enjoyed the pies and fireworks. In the morning he eats breakfast with a smile the entire festival was going good and he was looking forward to helping out the smith. At the smith After speaking and exchanging greetings with the man Isaac gets to work but it's seems luck and skill were not on Isaac side today while trying to make a hoop he hits his hand a few times and almost runs into the blacksmith a few times. Today suddenly felt very unlucky for Isaac.
Profession black smith: (2)
Tae-Che (Jim) HP 9/9 AC 12/12/10 CMD 13 d20+8=24 ; Wednesday March 16th, 2022 9:56:30 PM
Tae Che takes the bracelets from the girl's. [B]"I will get right on these after breakfast."[b] She measures each Wrist and writes down some info.
She starts on the first one once done with food.
DM Jon: Fey Festival Wednesday March 16th, 2022 10:30:20 PM
The blacksmith, with a wry smile nods at Issac, "Tough night lad, you seem out of sorts today. You may want to not hit your hands anymore but aim for the metal parts. Or, you can help me sort through some of my scrap metal pile. I'm looking for a few specific pieces that should be in there," he points to a goodly sized pile of what looks like junk metal, "there should be several pieces of a coppery steel in there. I need all the pieces you can find for me. I've got a request from the cook at the inn for a new cleaver. The other one I'd made apparently broke when they were cutting through an elk's leg bone ( I wrote elf three times before getting that right)."
Tae-Che spends some nice time working on her project. The inn keep keeps her mug or glass full while she is busy. When not catering to Tae-Che, the innkeeper also appears to be deep cleaning the inn between customers, slowly and reverently taking down all the green items that had been displayed for the festival. Each piece is carefully wrapped in velvet and placed in a heavy cedar-lined chest.
Kristoph has a much better day than his compatriot, mainly by not hitting himself with the small hammer that the smith has him using.
Possibly dumb question, do Issac and Kristoph bear any weapons during their time with the Smith?
With much whining, the kids run off to do their chores, although all of them thank Benni for his time and his stories. assuming the Sense Motive roll is for Einar's departure, there's nothing negative that you can think of or discern from his note. You are sure that something most probably did come up that he was needed for more than continuing to travel with the party.
Olostim laughs,"Ah lad, magic makes everything more fun and exciting, at least when you're not dodging some enemys' attacks. Yes, you're now in my home. I'll tell you now, I have several unseen servants running around doing tasks, so if you see things floating through the air, you aren't going crazy. Now, we're on the third floor, and this is my casting room. I don't know how long you and your friends will be in town, but, that sets of blue books over there were my original spellbooks. The red set contains spells I've created since, and that I've found in my own adventures. You ever find yourself in a dragon's hoard, especially the older ones, look for scrolls and books. I've found several older more ancient spells that even give me issues when I try to use them, but they exist. Now, I also heard you and your friends may head into the Abbey at some point, I heard you found a key to some part of it when you were in the swamp...I need to look, but when you do head in there, there might be something I'd like for you to look for, how does that sound in payment for pursuing my spellbook?"
“Benni” AC 18/11/17 CMD12 HP 13/13 Onesimos (SteveK) d20+5=13 ; d20+10=29 ; Thursday March 17th, 2022 1:22:38 AM
Onesimos tells two sets of stories over the last day that align with self-love and pragmatic love. The story is of a young centaur, unsure of himself but eager, and joins a mercenary company. Assigned to be in a group of misfits, they learn to trust each other’s skills and personalities and differences. They overcome many obstacles through duty of shared goals, and finding fulfillment in a common purpose. And in doing so, the young centaur learned self-esteem, which supports emotional resiliency, tolerance, forgiveness, and joy.
”So working together helps the community, and the feeling of accomplishment helps yourself grow, too. And so it is time, my young friends to put these stories to good use, and return to our chores. Off you go!”
He broods a bit over the sudden departure of Einar, quite a handy person to have in a fight! But the elf is philosophic: he has had many partings before and is resigned to have more over the centuries.
Perform Oratory 13 Sense Motive. 29
Gore'Thum and Teddy Treeborn (Mitch) HP -1/14AC 12/11/12 CMD 11 Gore'Thum HP 1/23AC 12/12/11 d20=16 ; d20=10 ; Thursday March 17th, 2022 8:02:42 AM
Gore'Thum and Teddy are no shipwrights but they seem to do well enough in the search for a good tree.
Isaac Harker (Justin M) HP 24/24 AC20/ T12 / FF 18 Thursday March 17th, 2022 9:51:33 PM
Isaac shakes his head "Not sure I think just a bad draw of the hand today." He smiles at his silly pun and sit's down to sort through the metal. "This reminds me of when I would get kitchen duty back at the guard in Hook City." Isaac talks about some of his time when he was in the guard and asks the Blacksmith "So have you always lived here in town or did you come from somewhere else like me?" During this Isaac picks through the pile of metal carefully he hit his hand once no need to add punctured to that list.
(Isaac does have his sword and the knife he won but they are in his backpack. His back pack is currently sitting underneath a table in the blacksmith's tent. Isaac doesn't wear the backpack everywhere. Since a festival is currently going on he a bit lax)
Tae-Che (Jim) HP 9/9 AC 12/12/10 CMD 13 Thursday March 17th, 2022 9:54:28 PM
Tae Che keeps up with her companions, making sure if they head out on an adventure she is included. Otherwise, she keeps working on the bracelets for the rest of the week.
DM Jon: Fey Festival Friday March 18th, 2022 12:20:11 AM
So, the day passes somewhat eventfully. Kristoph and Issac hang out with the blacksmith, who takes at look at Issac's sword, and just says, "Nice work, where'd you get it lad?"
The smith slides half a dozen arrowheads to Kristoph for the help.
GoreThum and teddy help the fisherman locate three good trees that could be turned into masts. The fisherman will thank the fellows by feeding them baked fish stuffed with root vegetables he gathered on the way home. He ends up sharing some of his past adventures with the guys, although most seem to fall into the "Typical Fishing Stories about the big one that got away. He does mention in passing that he has seen weird things out at sea, even close here to Heranmar, but never went back to search for them. "there's even tell of a ghost ship. Some pirate, hmmm, Red something. Seems to be paying for past debts if you can believe that. Of course if you do, then let me tell you about some very nice property I own, a few small islands up for grabs..." Teddy and GoreThum can tell he is teasing them.
Benni finds two scrolls for him when he gets back to the Inn. Both are short stories written by two of the children/young adults who have been listening to him since Day1. Both detail their own adventures in the region and clearly discuss how the Crones and "other" powers always kept them safe.
Stepping out front of the Inn to stretch, Tae-Che sees several of her companions heading back to the Inn, and all seem to be in a good mood. Once everyone is back inside, the inn keep asks, "The festival is over pretty much tomorrow, what are your plans then?"
Snark - he's still with the somewhat "Crazy" mage...
OCC: Sorry about the lateness of the post, I've been working overnight shifts this week, and struggling to get up in time to do anything
Gore'Thum and Teddy Treeborn (Mitch) HP -1/14AC 12/11/12 CMD 11 Gore'Thum HP 1/23AC 12/12/11 Friday March 18th, 2022 10:44:29 AM
Teddy and Gore'Thum enjoy the meal and share the story of the pirate ship they ran across while in the woods. Neither is a great story teller, Gor'Thum is to stilted and Teddy to nervous that he'll forget something so it makes things come out a little confused.
Kristoph: AC:17/16/14 | CMD:22 | HP: 25/25 - Blusinda: AC:13 | HP:21/21 (Stephen C) Friday March 18th, 2022 11:41:55 AM
Kristoph doesn't carry any obvious weapons around town (not even his staff), but he does have shuriken strapped all over his body and the Blacksmith may have noticed? He would also have enquired about a set of cold iron nunchaku.
(OOC Kristoph paid for a set at the catacombs and is just waiting on their arrival, he would certainly have asked the smith and would happily help).
Snark Riverstone (MarkB) AC13 T13 F10, CMD 11, HP 15/15 Friday March 18th, 2022 11:53:19 AM
Snark listens carefully to Olostim. Since the previous mage he learned under was dishonest and mean, this man is a refreshing change.
"Olostim, you are most kind. We did indeed find a key to an abbey. If you will tell me what to look for in there, I will be glad to bring it back for you. What can you tell me about this item and about the abbley in general?
"My last mentor was a real jerk. I am eager to learn what I can, but I do not want to take advantage of you generosity or overstay my welcome. I'll get to work leaning what I can. When should I plan to leave here?"
Isaac Harker (Justin M) HP 24/24 AC20/ T12 / FF 18 d20+2=22 ; Friday March 18th, 2022 9:41:17 PM
Isaac thinks back when did he get it it was.." Oh remember when we first got into town the lucky fish had been stolen? When we tracked down the person who stole it I saw the weapon that one of his henchmen used and took it for myself. It's not the most heroic story but it was certainly better than my old guard sword." Isaac continues looking through the scrap metal but soon collects every piece of coppery steel he can find. "But back when we were investigating the woad hunters we found a weird wood sword. It was magical and it hit hard but we decided that it would be of most use donated to the town. I really liked that sword."
Perception (22)
“Benni” AC 18/11/17 CMD12 HP 16/16 Onesimos (SteveK) Saturday March 19th, 2022 7:39:38 AM
Onesimos is touched at the thoughtfulness of the children. He reads the stories carefully, unconcerned that the Crones play a big part in their stories. What he is more interested in is if the protagonists try to be Good. He smiles. A good festival all around, and he carefully keeps the two scrolls.
Tae-Che (Jim) HP 9/9 AC 12/12/10 CMD 13 Saturday March 19th, 2022 10:06:41 PM
Tae Che happily assists the inn staff when she is available.
Snark Riverstone (MarkB) AC13 T13 F10, CMD 11, HP 21/21 Sunday March 20th, 2022 7:09:44 PM
The little gnome puzzles over the borrowed spellbooks, trying to make the most of his allowed time.
(Updated header)
Gore'Thum and Teddy Treeborn (Mitch) HP 23/23AC 12/11/12 CMD 11 Gore'Thum HP 27/27 AC 12/12/11 Sunday March 20th, 2022 9:33:22 PM
Gore'Thum and Teddy update their header and Teddy tells some wild tales about back when he was an actual bear.
Kristoph: AC:17/16/14 | CMD:22 | HP: 25/25 - Blusinda: AC:13 | HP:21/21 (Stephen C) Monday March 21st, 2022 2:33:51 PM
At the inn Blusinda steps into the fireplace and burns green in honor of the festival.
Kristoph grins "No one likes a show off" he mumbles and elbows the fire cat. Then extinguishes his arm.
Isaac Harker (Justin M) HP 24/24 AC20/ T12 / FF 18 Monday March 21st, 2022 7:19:30 PM
Isaac thinks back to the woad hunt and shivers a bit "That whole foray out their was pretty wild whish we could have saved more people but I can't get to hung up on that stuff. We can't be everywhere at once."
DM Jon: Fey Festival Monday March 21st, 2022 9:13:45 PM
Olostim looks around, "Well, your friends are probably still enjoying the last few hours of the celebration, what about you stay overnight. I need to go check on a few things, you can stay here. I've got some ink vials over there with some quills if you need them." The small desk he is pointing to is covered in papers, quills, several vials of ink, and what might be the remains of a meal from who knows when.
Issac shares about his sword, to which the blacksmith replies, "I've heard rumors about such weapons. Never held one or tried one out. Well, given some notice I can make you a finer weapon if you wish, given more time, I could attempt to make on that a caster could enchant, but I'd need some special ores and metals for that."
Kristoph mentions about cold iron nunchucks. The blacksmith "hmphs" "I haven't had anyone ask about cold iron anything in a while. Though not specifically a weapon smith, I do know how to make cold iron items. A weapon such as you ask, is close enough to a wheat flail that it should be easy to make, but again, I'd need some material I don't have here."
GoreThum and Teddy tell some stories, while Benni looks on reading his scrolls.
Tae-Che's help is very much appreciated by the Inn staff.
Dinner is a stew crafted from the remains of the beef and deer that were left over, plus root vegetables. fresh baked dark bread with honey butter and cheese compliments the meal. A green pudding (pistachio in color and flavor) is offered as a final goodbye, the celebration is over, dessert.
Tae-Che (Jim) HP 9/9 AC 12/12/10 CMD 13 Monday March 21st, 2022 9:56:08 PM
Tae Che asks around the town for more things to help out with.
Snark Riverstone (MarkB) AC13 T13 F10, CMD 11, HP 21/21 Monday March 21st, 2022 11:54:36 PM
Snark is grateful. "You are most kind Olostim, and I am in your debt. Anything I need to tend to while you're gone?"
The little gnome will make the best use of his time, studying and writing spells into his spellbook as he may. He also casts Detect Magic and looks around the place, careful not to disturb anything. He will also conjure his own Unseen Servant to tidy up the forgotten food and do what he can to leave the place in better shape than when he arrived. Before he leaves he asks Olostim what it is we should look for in the Abbey.
When he finally leaves the following night he's ready for a good sleep at the inn. He greets his friends before heading up to his room.
"Wow. Olostim's great! He lives in this cool lighthouse and he let me look at his spellbook and everything! All he asked is that we look for something at the Abbey! Maybe we should go there in a day or two. I still need a bit of time to study a couple things."
Gore'Thum and Teddy Treeborn (Mitch) HP 23/23AC 12/11/12 CMD 11 Gore'Thum HP 27/27 AC 12/12/11 Tuesday March 22nd, 2022 7:32:27 AM
Gore'Thum and Teddy enjoy a quiet meal before going to bed.
“Benni” AC 18/11/17 CMD12 HP 16/16 Onesimos (SteveK) Tuesday March 22nd, 2022 1:55:07 PM
Onesimos listens to the endeavors of his friends over the festival, and relates his own success in integrating into the town.
After Snark mentions the Abbey, the elfin cleric remembers another treasure they got from the Woad cemetery. ”And now we have a Key. I agree, Snark, it is time to cleanse the Abbey.”
Benni looks about to assess if his friends are in agreement.
Kristoph: AC:17/16/14 | CMD:22 | HP: 25/25 - Blusinda: AC:13 | HP:21/21 (Stephen C) Tuesday March 22nd, 2022 3:27:11 PM "I agree"!
Snark Riverstone (MarkB) AC13 T13 F10, CMD 11, HP 21/21 Tuesday March 22nd, 2022 6:54:54 PM
Snark also works on some scrolls the next day and makes a quick trip to the Catacombs.
"Hey Benni - you said we should get some healing stuff. I'm going to get another potion."
DM Jon: Fey Festival Tuesday March 22nd, 2022 10:05:55 PM
Olostim is looking for some books that may or may not be in the Abbey.
So it sounds like Snark may be running to the Catacombs for some minor shopping.
Tae-Che gets collared into helping take down the last of the decorations, and move stuff back to where it's normally stored ... she's paid in food ...
GoreThum and Teddy enjoy and easy day after a restful night of sleeping
Benni, Snark, and Kristoph agree that poking around the Abbey might be good. You have two different keys to the Abbey, possibly to two different areas.
Isaac Harker (Justin M) HP 24/24 AC20/ T12 / FF 18 Tuesday March 22nd, 2022 11:16:55 PM
Isaac spends most of the day after helping the blacksmith relaxing after the incident of hitting his hand with a hammer. If anyone comes to ask him about joining int o cleanse the Abbey he smiles and comments "I would be honored. I've been wanting to take a crack at that place for awhile. We could use that deed to pay off a future Due with the league if we're lucky."
Gore'Thum and Teddy Treeborn (Mitch) HP 23/23AC 12/11/12 CMD 11 Gore'Thum HP 27/27 AC 12/12/11 Wednesday March 23rd, 2022 7:26:21 AM
Gore'Thum starts to get a little antsy. The festival was nice but he wants to find some adventure for the party to go on to push Teddy's skills further. He asks around to follow up on one of those rumors the party has heard that might be a small adventure.
Snark Riverstone (MarkB) AC13 T13 F10, CMD 11, HP 21/21 Wednesday March 23rd, 2022 12:12:09 PM
(The Catacombs purchase was for one scroll and one potion. We can go whenever, and I will just not use those two items until the sale is approved.)
"To the Abbey!"
"Hey, anybody know where the Abbey is?"
Snark will ask the innkeeper and the sheriff where the Abbey is and if there is anything they should watch out for on the way. He will explain that Olostim suggested we poke around there.
DM JamesM: Map - Intermediate post, Reminders Wednesday March 23rd, 2022 1:13:36 PM
The Abbey, a reminder to those that might have forgotten ***** Though more than one has tried to repair the Abbey and bring it back into use, none have succeeded. It is a place of great mystery and superstition. At times it has glowed at night to signal an incoming storm. The Abbey itself is an old monastery of enormous proportions with nearly a hundred rooms located about a mile southwest of town. It's clearly visible from the walls as it sits to one side of the fields to the south of Heranmar.
The superstition surrounding the place abounds and it's location as Waldo's hideout a source of mystery to the heroes. If a sheep wanders too close to it the sheep better find it's own way out because no one will go in after it, not even the dogs.
On the two occasions they've visited the structure they've encountered ghostly beings in the windows and a general sense of dread over the entire place. This fear has been severe enough to even break the bravest of them and cause them to hesitate or run away.
In town only those of the utmost stamina and bravery have ventured close to it. It's a sign of good luck if you carry of a piece of it on your person, be it a stone from the wall surrounding it, a piece of glass from a broken window, or a fragment of brick from the Abbey's walls. If you got that item yourself, you must be a brave person. None of you have fond memories of the place and even a glance at it causes the hair to raise on the back of your neck.
The key you have is the first you've seen though since it bears the heraldric mark you've seen upon the main entrance it appears to be a key to that place. Sheriff "Whip" has also confirmed the key belongs to the Abbey, though he warns you that not all the keys work everywhere. He remembers a time when the Abbey was open and the caretakers there carried a ring of twenty or so keys.
DM James: Just some filler information to help out DM Jon.
Kristoph: AC:17/16/14 | CMD:22 | HP: 25/25 - Blusinda: AC:13 | HP:21/21 (Stephen C) Wednesday March 23rd, 2022 7:59:16 PM
Kristoph is always perplexed at the complex depths of superstition in the town. He also gives the ten arrow heads (made by the Smith) to whoever uses a bow. He really is rubbish with bows.
DM Jon: Abbey's Away Wednesday March 23rd, 2022 9:40:09 PM
To add to James's post: The two books Olostim is looking for are the notes and journal of a Ratfolk Fire Elementalist, Blaze of the Sharptooth Clan. Olostim has determined that Blaze was working on several spells of his own design. The two books may be in Abbey somewhere. When Olostim attempts a locate item spell, it seems to stop at the Abbey - but it's so big he has no specific location to look into.
Tae-Che (Jim) HP 9/9 AC 12/12/10 CMD 13 Wednesday March 23rd, 2022 11:32:57 PM
Tae Che is very willing to check out the abbey when the idea comes up.
Isaac Harker (Justin M) HP 24/24 AC20/ T12 / FF 18 Wednesday March 23rd, 2022 11:33:29 PM
Isaac thinks back to his stories he's heard of champions of the gods paladins. One power they possessed was that fear had no sway over them. It was not that they would not worry or didn't get afraid but the panic and tremors from fear never affected them he wondered if he was strong enough to replicate that. He also thought of waldo's scarf he still possessed. "once the festival winds down investigating the Abby sounds like a fine idea. Clearing out even a few of the more violent spirits might calm the area. Also even if it's superstation getting a piece of the abbey might help our standing."
Gore'Thum and Teddy Treeborn (Mitch) HP 23/23AC 12/11/12 CMD 11 Gore'Thum HP 27/27 AC 12/12/11 Thursday March 24th, 2022 7:27:32 AM
Teddy doesn't want to go check out the abby but Gore'Thum does and overrules him.
“Benni” AC 18/11/17 CMD12 HP 16/16 Onesimos (SteveK) Thursday March 24th, 2022 2:59:31 PM
Onesimos is happy his friends want another crack at the Abbey that lays just outside of town. ”A good night’s sleep, then, and let’s go in the morning.”
When morning comes, the elf is ready, resplendent in a new, magical breastplate from the Catacombs, and ready with all his adventuring stuff.
A quick breakfast with friends, and they are off!
DM JamesM: Map - Impending Doom d100=72 ; Thursday March 24th, 2022 5:37:48 PM
DM James: Subbing for DM Jon
It was the last night of the Festival and a Dance was scheduled in the town square. A glance out the door of the Blue Cat Tavern saw a crowd gathering as Rap Goodfellow walked down the street at the head of a procession that ended in a woman seated upon a golden throne carried by four young men. The councilman was garbed in the finery of his station as he walked proudly at the head of the parade.
As the procession edged closer to pass by the Blue Cat all could see that the unlikeliest of people, old sour Tessa Redlocks, though very young, had been made the Fey Queen of the dance. Only she wasn't sour at all, but seemed happy and a glowing beauty as wreaths of woad were thrown through the air to land on the platform at her bare feet.
Each of her bearers were bare chested with a small green tie about their neck and a green top hat upon their head. They wore green trousers and black boots with shiny brass buckles whose heels clicked on the paving stones as they walked by. "Tonight she'll pick one to be the Fey Consort." whispered a nearby towns person.
"Yeah, last year the Fey queen married her consort." "How is Thisha?" "Expecting their first born, I hear." "Wonderful, maybe Tessa will luck up too." "Or one of those fellas under her." "Yeah, that too."
The streets were crowded with people from all over as the last night of the Festival was celebrated not in the establishments around town, or on the fair grounds outside the walls, but at the very center of the town in the Tradehouse. It had been cleared this week to make room for the ball, and with good reason too as a fog was predicted to be moving in later tonight.
Overhead the sky was clear and cool as an offshore breeze blew across the walls of the town and gently drifted through it's streets. Street lamps were lit, and the music started in the tradehouse as the final celebration began.
Meanwhile the heroes discussed the Abbey and how they might approach it on the morrow. Issac hoped he'd gained the favor of his deity and might be able to resist the fearsome aura that shrouded the place, Kristoph handed off his arrowheads to one that could use them, Snark had information about some tomes that might be found in the abbey, Tae was ready, Teddy was reluctant as he looked uncertainly at the large frog that sat regally and looked at him stoically with the obvious message that he should go, and Benni was ready to get a good nights sleep and strike off for the Abbey in the morning. They either didn't know about or had forgotten the dance, but several local ladies had not as they looked on from a short distance waiting to pounce. Tae even saw a swarthy fellow with thick arms and a broad chest gazing her direction.
From the last foray to the Abbey they remembered that there were a set of doors in front, two in the rear, some kind of gate on one side, and a couple of outbuilding. Those were the only portals that might use a key, though none had ventured close enough to any of them to see if they were locked.
They were wrapping up and preparing to go their separate ways for the evening when several dock workers walked in. They looked shaken and looking for a hot meal before leaving for the evening themselves.
"Ole Jack Lolly and his crew are missing, hard to believe" "Yeah, the Black Ghost just floated into the harbor" "Tide and current most like, said another." "No doubt, no crew though. Makes his ship name fit. A ghost ship for certain." "Anyone looked at it yet?" "Naw, they moved it out a bit and set a guard on it, no one is allowed aboard. Prolly gonna sell it or fix it up.” "You going' to the dance?" "No, have to be up early. Gwenlian wants ter look the ship over at first light."
Snark Riverstone (MarkB) AC13 T13 F10, CMD 11, HP 21/21 Thursday March 24th, 2022 7:00:38 PM
Snark tells his friends, "Olostim wants us to look for a couple of books in the Abbey - some notes and journal of a Ratfolk Fire Elementalist, Blaze of the Sharptooth Clan. Olostim thinks Blaze was working on several spells of his own design. He says the two books may be in Abbey somewhere. He says they Abbey is a pretty big place and they could be anywhere."
Later he watches as the townsfolk throw the woad that cost some a woad hunter her life, at the feet of this made up fey queen. He shakes his head. "Boy these people are weird." Still, he enjoys the evening and retires early, ready to head to the Abbey the next day.
Isaac Harker (Justin M) HP 24/24 AC20/ T12 / FF 18 Thursday March 24th, 2022 10:38:52 PM
Isaac watches the choosing and stays up for the dance. He he does ask one of the townsfolk if the choosing of a consort was something akin to a marriage come morning. Isaac will participate in the dance if asked.
Tae-Che (Jim) HP 9/9 AC 12/12/10 CMD 13 Thursday March 24th, 2022 11:38:09 PM
Tae Che takes in all the things of the last evening of the festival. She dances with several men throughout the evening. She sleeps well that night.
Gore'Thum and Teddy Treeborn (Mitch) HP 23/23AC 12/11/12 CMD 11 Gore'Thum HP 27/27 AC 12/12/11 Friday March 25th, 2022 8:14:39 AM
Gore'Thum considers the ladies waiting to pounce. Choosing the one he thinks human's could consider the most attractive he approaches, saying politely. "You. Pretty human. Will you be my partner at the dance?"
DM JamesM: Map - The Dance Friday March 25th, 2022 9:45:08 AM
DM James: Still subbing
They all attend the dance, but note that the shop keepers all tended to stay back with their shops; possibly to enjoy the break in activity, but more likely to run their establishments while their staff take the night off. Tessa takes turns that evening dancing with each of the chairmen. Towards the middle of the celebration she chooses one to sit with her on the dais where her throne sits. They are both crowned with a wreath of woad as a symbol of their joint role for the evening in presiding over the dance. Tessa and the chairman frequently direct the musicians to play a favorite piece or call out a specific dance to be performed.
Snark leaves the tradehouse early, claiming he needs his rest for the expedition in the morning.
In response to Issac's question, the local girl in his arms simply responds. As queen of the dance you get to choose your chairmen, so if there is anyone you are interested in it's a perfect time for a girl to get him to herself for a while. So, it's not a marriage exactly, but more of a courtship tactic.
The men dancing with Tae are respectful, but she decides early on that they are more curious about her than anything else and finds out by mistake that at least one of them was dared to ask her to dance. His friends were certain he'd leave the dance looking like Gore'thum, her previous victim.
Gore'Thum asks a young lady to the dance and she accepts, but the conversation turns towards his appearance and how he came about it. As the night passes he's kissed by several of the girls attending in the hope that he will become a handsome prince. All seem disappointed, but are certain he just needs to be kissed by the right one.
Perception DC 20 Highlight to display spoiler: {Sheriff "Whip" is approached by someone during the dance and he leaves early.He returns later with a concerned look on his face.}
At the conclusion of the dance Tessa leads the assembled townsfolk in a prayer of thanks to the fey queen for the bounty that's allowed them to survive the winter. They know the coming weeks will be tough but they are confident Maab will provide them fair weather and fishing.
The streets of Haranmar were dark and misty with the glow of the street lights creating globes of hazy light every twenty feet. At the tradehouse the last of the happy townsfolk leave to wander through the streets headed to their homes or to the inn's where they rented rooms. Some pass through the open town gates headed to places outside the town walls. At the Blue Cat Tavern patrons were arriving for a late night meal and some refreshment before heading home.
*****
The next morning the mood of the Inn and town is somber as the aftermath of the celebration seems to have caught up to everyone. Though they seem happy most people are tired from the week of activity. As for the heroes, Luck Makers, Woad Warriors, or whatever they are calling themselves, they make their way quietly out of town towards the Abbey.
The fog from the night before is almost all burned off by the time they reach the Abbey and the place doesn't seem as foreboding as it does at night, but there is still an aura about the place.
Will Save DC 15 (Fear Based) Highlight to display spoiler: {You are shaken.}
Snark Riverstone (MarkB) AC13 T13 F10, CMD 11, HP 21/21 d20+7=13 Friday March 25th, 2022 12:29:37 PM
Snark is happy to be on the road again.
As we approach the Abbey, he says, "Yeah, I remember this place. Creepy."
He will cast Resistance on each of the party members. This should grant everyone a +1 Resistance Bonus on your next save.
(Snark rolls a 13, so he is shaken.)
“Benni” AC 18/11/17 CMD12 HP 16/16 Onesimos (SteveK) Friday March 25th, 2022 1:02:25 PM
Onesimos did indeed forget about the last night, and enjoys the friendly “Ludus” of the dance with several women of all ages. He politely applauds and is quiet at the appropriate times: though a cleric of Flower, he recognizes there are other Powers in the Wold that also deserve respect. He even jovially ribs Snark about the gnome’s automatic rejection of what he’s not used to.
With the late night arrival of the ghost ship, however, the elf is more serious. ”Im going to take a look at it tonight, just to make sure nothing is untoward.”
Benni heads to the docks
DM James: Addressing this via email. Will append the forum post once the exchange is complete.
Benni left late that night after the dance and headed to the docks to investigate the ship that arrived that evening. As soon as he exited the dock gate he saw through the foggy haze a small group of people standing on the warf under a streetlamp. As he approached he saw that one of hte people was the Sheriff and another person he recognized at the Dock Supervisor though he'd never met her before.
The Dock Supervisior was a middle aged large woman with a powerful build. She was dressed in trousers and a tunic with the sleeves rolled up in spite of the chill and dampness in the air. Her greying hair was pulled back severely into a small bun and in her left hand she carried a baling hook. There were several men standing around her that seemed to look to her for direction as she spoke to the Sheriff.
Sheriff "Whip" was holding a bloody slipper in his right hand as he looked up at the approaching elf. "Hello Benni, how can I help you?"
“Evening Sheriff.” The elf is polite and respectful. “Sailors came into the TradeHouse telling about the ghost ship, and I wanted to offer my services in case there were undead or an evil presence. Why have special abilities if I don’t offer them to all good people who need them?”
Onesimos will take the town’s leadership’s word if they have already searched the ship of mundane and magical dangers.
Sheriff "Whip" smiled at Benni. "Not a ghost ship, but I can understand why you might have thought so...Sailors will talk. No, it was the Black Ghost, Jack Lolly's ship. Came floating into the harbor today with the rigging gone and no one aboard. Looks like pirates maybe, Ole Jack himself wasn't a cheery fellow and was known to lean towards piracy himself. He'd use the Ghost to travel upstream on the rivers here and raid villages and towns. We figure he was in battle when that storm last week hit and his ship was blown off course. The deck was a mess so we are clearing them and getting the cargo off of it. We set the Ghost in the harbor a ways out to keep people off her until we unload her tomorrow. This shoe...well. Lady Soles left the dance to get some fresh air and when one of her footmen went to look for her he found this bloody slipper. We have men combing the area looking for her now, but no one has found a body or her yet. If she's alive we'll find her, if not I suspect her body will show up eventually."
The men standing about started shifting from foot to foot at the mention of death, but they were obviously afraid to leave until dismissed by the Dock Supervisor.
The pale elf frowns. “Bloody? She may be hurt and I can assist. If you agree, I can stay here until you find her or give up the search. Anyone finding her can then get me quickly to sooth any hurt.”
The cleric, again, will follow the directions of the town leaders.
The search proceeded into the night, but once the midnight hour struck the sheriff called off the search. "We'll have to try again at first light. Benni, it's probably just one of the visitors from a nearby village causing this trouble. We get something like this during festivals. Usually they target the commoner girls though. Looks like this one has a taste for the fancy ones. I'll let you know if we haven't found anything out in the morning."
Kristoph: AC:17/16/14 | CMD:22 | HP: 25/25 - Blusinda: AC:13 | HP:21/21 (Stephen C) d20+10=21 ; Friday March 25th, 2022 7:03:13 PM
(Will:21) Kristoph keeps it together. "What's the plan"?
Tae-Che (Jim) HP 9/9 AC 12/12/10 CMD 13 d20+6=13 ; Friday March 25th, 2022 9:42:04 PM
Tae Che goes with everyone to the abbey but as she nears it, she gets the willies.
Isaac Harker (Justin M) HP 24/24 AC20/ T12 / FF 18 d20+2=14 ; Friday March 25th, 2022 11:03:07 PM
Isaac thanks the girl for the information. In the morning after breakfast and a cup of tea with a dash of swamp honey which was very tasty, Isaac stands with the others ready to try and take the Abby back from whatever now haunts it. Isaac strangely doesn't feel any fear he feel normal. Those around Isaac feel braver as well. (Aura of courage:Isaac is immune to fear. everyone in 10ft of Isaac gets a +4 to saving throws against fear.) Perception:14
“Benni” AC 18/11/17 CMD12 HP 16/16 Onesimos (SteveK) d20+6=21 ; Saturday March 26th, 2022 10:41:42 AM
After the night before, Onesimos is with the team approaching the Abbey. He can feel the oppression Billy it doesn’t affect the fragile-looking elf.
” We have two keys, both are supposed to be for the Abbey. And we want to clear the feeling of dread to cleanse this place. At least I do! So, let’s start with the outbuildings and see if either key opens one of them. If so, we explore and cleanse. If not, we try the Abbey.”
Save 21.
Gore'Thum and Teddy Treeborn (Mitch) HP 23/23AC 12/11/12 CMD 11 Gore'Thum HP 27/27 AC 12/12/11 d20=2 ; d20+5=22 ; Sunday March 27th, 2022 10:23:50 AM
Gore'Thum is happy to talk about how 'the master' blessed him with intelligence and girth. He doesn't think to explain who the master is unless asked, in which case he will clarify he means Warper Sar. He's quite happy to try to convert some of the ladies, telling them of the wonderful new forms they could get.
The next day they head to the abby and Gore'Thum is far more affected by it then Teddy (3 for him, 23 for Teddy). He tries to hide it but it's noticeable.
DM JamesM: Map - The Abbey Monday March 28th, 2022 9:02:44 AM
DM James: See Benni's post above for the events in the night. Also, DM Jon will be subbing for me the week of Good Friday, so I'm filling in for him a week early.
The large central area of the Abbey loomed before them out of the fog as they approached the low stone wall that surrounded the structure. Kristoph asked about the plan, Tae shivered in the cold and misty air though it might not have been the cold air that caused her shivering, Issac seemed at ease and unafraid by the creepy mist and surrounding structure, Benni also seems unaffected by the chill as he reminds everyone that they have two keys. He suggested they try one of the two outbuildings.
Out of necessity they skirt the structure just outside the stone wall until they find a break in the wall and enter into the grounds of the abbey at the rear. Here on the Abbey grounds the long grass has been pressed flat by the winter snow and ice, though in some places you can see fresh green offshoots peeking through the brown and dead grasses.
The heroes saw a small building with a stone walk way leading into the back of the abbey near them and another building on the far side of the larger structure near a well. The second building was much larger than the first, but neither had any windows at ground level. Getting closer to the Abbey is an effort.
Even as the aura of fear worked at each of them they found some solace being near Issac.
DC 16 Will Save (Fear) - If last save succeeded. Highlight to display spoiler: {You are shaken.}
KS: Planes DC 15 Highlight to display spoiler: {The area around the Abbey doesn't seem grounded in the Wold, but part of another place. You feel like another plane might be bleeding into this region.}
“Benni” AC 18/11/17 CMD12 HP 16/16 Onesimos (SteveK) d20+12=29 ; Monday March 28th, 2022 2:43:27 PM
Benni feels the oppressiveness of the Abbey and turns to Snark and Tae-Che. ”This feels magical, can you verify?”. He uses his Calming Touch on both the arcane users, removing the Shaken condition.
”Stay near Issac, he can help.”
As a group Benni leads the heroes to the larger outhouse, looking for a door.
…. Calming Touch. 2 of 6 used Save. 29. (+6, +4 10’ of Issac, +2v enchantment)
Snark Riverstone (MarkB) AC13 T13 F10, CMD 11, HP 21/21 d20+11=29 ; Monday March 28th, 2022 5:11:26 PM
(I'm a little confused on the saving throw. Do we roll each round?)
Snark's shaken feeling goes away at Benni's reassuring touch. As we are still slowing approaching this situation, he makes it a point to renew the casting of Resistance on each of the party members that need it. This should grant everyone a +1 Resistance Bonus on your next save.
At the cleric's suggestion, he moves near Isaac whom he also finds reassuring. He pulls out his wand, "If there's trouble, I'm making you bigger." (Save 29. Resistance +1, paladin +4)
Finally, he will cast Detect Magic and begin concentrating on the building and surrounding area.
---------------------------- Detect Magic - Range 60'.
1st Round: Presence or absence of magical auras. 2nd Round: Number of different magical auras and the power of the most potent aura. 3rd Round: The strength and location of each aura. If the items or creatures bearing the auras are in line of sight, you can make Knowledge (arcana) skill checks to determine the school of magic involved in each. (Make one check per aura: DC 15 + spell level, or 15 + 1/2 caster level for a nonspell effect.) If the aura emanates from a magic item, you can attempt to identify its properties (see Spellcraft).
Knowledge Arcana +7, Spellcraft +12
Kristoph: AC:17/16/14 | CMD:22 | HP: 25/25 - Blusinda: AC:13 | HP:21/21 (Stephen C) d20+13=30 ; Monday March 28th, 2022 6:12:22 PM
Kristoph keeps his cool (will:30 includes bonus for being near the Paladin, but succeeds even if he isn't). "This place is weird"! he says to himself.
Tae-Che (Jim) HP 9/9 AC 12/12/10 CMD 13 d3=3 ; d20+6=18 ; Monday March 28th, 2022 10:14:12 PM
Tae Che stays near everyone which appears to not be effected.
Isaac Harker (Justin M) HP 24/24 AC20/ T12 / FF 18 Monday March 28th, 2022 10:14:39 PM
Isaac feels a little weird being huddled around by every one. Isaac points to the building by the well "so should we try exploring the main Abby or start with the outside buildings first?"
Gore'Thum and Teddy Treeborn (Mitch) HP 23/23AC 12/11/12 CMD 11 Gore'Thum HP 27/27 AC 12/12/11 d20=15 ; d20=12 ; Tuesday March 29th, 2022 7:21:02 AM
This time Teddy and Gore'Thum both manage to remain calm, though Gore'Thum is still a little shaken (19 for Gore'Thum, 21 for Teddy). Teddy hopes they finish quickly.
DM JamesM: Map - The Abbey Outbuilding Tuesday March 29th, 2022 10:12:43 AM
The feeling of fear and dread seemed to strengthen the closer they got to the Abbey so staying back to enter an outbuilding seemed just fine to everyone. It also seemed like the fog either was getting more dense or the sun had passed behind a dark cloud as the light faded.
Detect Magic Highlight to display spoiler: {There is a faint bit of background magic on the Abbey itself, but otherwise only the gear carried by the heroes detect as magic.}
KS: Planes DC 15 Highlight to display spoiler: {The fabric between the Wold and the Realms of Shadow is thin here.The sun isn't going behind a cloud, you are going deeper into the Realm of Shadow.}
Crowded together as they were the heroes stepped onto the stone path leading to the larger outbuilding. The structure itself was 20' tall and made of gray sandstone fitted together masterfully. The door appeared to be solid oak with iron bands holding it together. It also was once painted red at one time, but the paint was faded and cracked. Beneath a large door handle was a keyhole that looked like it would work with a key of the size they carried. To either side of the door at waist height were dusky windows with bars set into the stonework to keep anyone from passing through them. Any attempt to peer through the windows failed as it seemed something was piled against the windows on the inside.
Perception DC15 Highlight to display spoiler: {There are claw marks on the bottom edge of the door that look like something tried to claw it's way out.}
DM James: A total scooby doo moment with everyone huddled against Freddy.
Kristoph: AC:17/16/14 | CMD:22 | HP: 25/25 - Blusinda: AC:13 | HP:21/21 (Stephen C) d20+7=22 ; Tuesday March 29th, 2022 11:02:12 AM "Hey look here, there are claw marks on the bottom edge of the door, looks like something tried to claw it's way out maybe"?! . Kristoph says pointing.
Blusinda (next to him) bathed everything in her blue light.
“Benni” AC 18/11/17 CMD12 HP 16/16 Onesimos (SteveK) d20+6=13 ; Tuesday March 29th, 2022 2:16:38 PM
Onesimos isn’t ‘huddling’ against Issac, the elf smiles at the joke, only ensures he is within a double arms length. ”Dont feel imprisoned,Issac. There are only five of us, and 20 people can comfortably fit within 10feet of you without crowding!”
With thinking of his friends so much, the cleric notices nothing.
Perception DC 13
Tae-Che (Jim) HP 9/9 AC 12/12/10 CMD 13 d20+8=16 ; Tuesday March 29th, 2022 9:40:46 PM
Tae Che looked at the marks to determine what it might have been.
Snark Riverstone (MarkB) AC13 T13 F10, CMD 11, HP 21/21 d20+7=12 ; d20+11=27 ; Wednesday March 30th, 2022 12:03:07 AM
(I took the liberty to relocate everyone near that outbuilding, assuming that is the one with the claw marks.) (Knowledge Planes 12 - fail. Perception 27 - pass.)
Snark can see the scratch marks. "Huh. Seem like something in there. Or was. I wonder if it's like some sort of werewolf that's usually fine but has to be locked up when it goes nuts?"
He walks over and knocks on the door. "Hey. Anybody in there?"
He looks at the door - does it seem to be secured from the outside?
“Benni” AC 18/11/17 CMD12 HP 16/16 Onesimos (SteveK) Wednesday March 30th, 2022 12:17:57 AM
Benni tries his key in the outbuilding door.
Gore'Thum and Teddy Treeborn (Mitch) HP 23/23AC 12/11/12 CMD 11 Gore'Thum HP 27/27 AC 12/12/11 Wednesday March 30th, 2022 6:30:59 AM
Teddy moans when the scratches are pointed out, now frightened that something is going to jump out at them the moment the door opens.
DM JamesM: Map - That Smell Wednesday March 30th, 2022 8:38:15 AM Kristoph commented on the claw marks on the door as Blusinda lit the area with her faint light.
Benni tried to comfort Issac and mentioned that it wouldn't really get crowded until at least twenty people gathered around him. When Benni gets to the door he tries his key.
Tae tried to determine what the marks on the door belonged to.
Snark commented that something might be in the building and speculated that it might be a were creature. He then knocked on the door and asked if anyone was there.
Teddy looked on the claw marks in fear, concerned that something might jump out at them.
Perception DC 15Highlight to display spoiler: {Other than the lock there are no obvious signs that the door has been secured.}
KS: Nature DC 15 Highlight to display spoiler: {The spacing and number of the claw marks suggest that a humanoid creature made them.}
Overhead the early morning light was fading and at the rate it was going darkness would be upon them soon. It was creepy and except for Issac called for everyone to steel themselves against the dread that was threatening to overcome them.
Will Save DC 17 or become shaken. DM James: As the sense of dread increases it prompts another check to resist it. Once you've failed the shaken condition doesn't get any worse, but if you resist it continues to work at you.
Snarks knock at the door didn't provoke a response from inside. All seemed quiet within.
Benni tried the key and it wouldn't turn, the second key he had did however as the tumblers in the lock turned over loudly with each of the three turns it required to move the mechanism. A quarter turn back and the key released as the door came ajar.
Perception DC 20 or Benni Highlight to display spoiler: {The odor of rot and decay seeped out of the room when the seal was broken as the door came ajar. There also seemed to be something blocking the door on the inside. By the sound of it, it's paper or trash of some sort. You can see bits of it just under the door at your feet.}
DM James: Mark made a good point. The mechanic for shaken was designed to keep people out as the save ramps up over a period of time. Once a DC 25 save was made you'd no longer have to make saves. I think to shortcut that if any of you save against DC25 then you can stop making saves and are unshaken.
Snark Riverstone (MarkB) AC13 T13 F10, CMD 11, HP 21/21 d20+11=27 ; d20+8=12 ; d20+11=12 ; d20+11=17 ; Wednesday March 30th, 2022 12:02:32 PM
(Perception 27, Knowledge Nature 12, Perception 12, Will Save 17 - pass)
Snark doesn't see any other locks and is a bit surprised the door doesn't swing open easily. Still, he backs up a bit as he again casts Resistance on himself.
Abilities/Items Acid Dart (Sp) 6 - 0 used Gnome (Sp) 1/day - Dancing Lights, Ghost Sound, Prestidigitation, and Speak with Animals. Wand of Enlarge - 44 charges left
“Benni” AC 18/11/17 CMD12 HP 16/16 Onesimos (SteveK) d20+2=22 Wednesday March 30th, 2022 1:34:17 PM
Onesimos wrinkles his fine elfin nose. “Whew! That hasn’t been opened in a while. Let’s have some light over here, anyone? Maybe a good push?”
The elf carefully puts the key away before he tries to force the door with a shove. Grunt!
If that doesn’t work, he steps aside for someone stronger.
………
Nat 20 to open the door!! 22
Kristoph: AC:17/16/14 | CMD:22 | HP: 25/25 - Blusinda: AC:13 | HP:21/21 (Stephen C) d20+7=9 ; d20+10=13 ; Wednesday March 30th, 2022 6:42:50 PM
(Perception:9 will:16 - forgot the bonus)
Isaac Harker (Justin M) HP 24/24 AC20/ T12 / FF 18 d20+2=15 ; Wednesday March 30th, 2022 9:46:47 PM
Isaac takes out his sword and shield ready if anything comes out of the building. Isaac looks at the door an notices only the lock nothing else. "if this was to house a dangerous creature it's woefully under secured. Their is only a lock no bars or reinforcements are made to the door." Isaac looks out trying to detect evil in the barn near them.
Kristoph: AC:17/16/14 | CMD:22 | HP: 25/25 - Blusinda: AC:13 | HP:21/21 (Stephen C) Thursday March 31st, 2022 5:24:19 AM
Blusinda grins (at the call for light) and steps forward illuminating the area. Kristoph meanwhile casts Resistance on everyone.
Gore'Thum and Teddy Treeborn (Mitch) HP 23/23AC 12/11/12 CMD 11 Gore'Thum HP 27/27 AC 12/12/11 d20+11=18 ; d20+5=10 ; d20+1=9 ; Thursday March 31st, 2022 7:29:08 AM
Teddy is able to immediately identify the scratches were from a humanoid (Knowledge: Nature 18). That does not comfort him. "Those were made by a person. Maybe locked inside to die." he tells the others shuddering. The shuddering increases as he fails his save (15 will). Gore'Thum failed a previous save so both are now shaken.
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