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Well Met in Windhorn

Getting to Know You

Crowd at the Bearclaw Keep Notice Board
Monday July 19th, 2021 8:22:30 AM

The notice board at the gate of Bearclaw Keep is often at the focal point of the goings on of Windhorn Hamlet. Official notices as well as those posted by members of the community are standard fare, with an extra helping of gossip and debate being a regular offering for those who come to partake there.

The last few days, tales of minor misfortune have been circulating around town. Additionally, there has recently been an unusual amount of deliveries to the Half-Ogre. The tavern and Inn’s owner and namesake, as well as his granddaughter, Valma and her husband, Cerdic the Tall, who together split the duties of running the Inn and Tavern, have been exceedingly busy the last few days.

Unsurprisingly, details of some of those unfortunate happenings as well as an explanation for all the activity at Grog’s Happy Half-Ogre Tavern and Inn are to be found on the BearClaw Keep Notice board. With the newest posting, a crowd has gathered there.

Anyone choosing to talk a look will find the following notices:

5 gp reward for information leading to the recovery of the full whiskey cask stolen from Ezra’s Distillery. No questions asked. Contact Ezra.

Anyone with information regarding the theft of curing hams from Ballo’s farm, please contact Captain Swiftshine.

25 gp reward for the capture or proof of slaying of the wild beast attacking livestock. See Theobald Swiftshine for more details.

But the note, actually two notes, that is causing the most stir is as follows:

[written in very large, coarse writing]”GROG’S BURFDAY PARTY THIS SATDAY. ALL WELCUM.”
Tacked beneath this is a neatly written addition: ”At the Festival Grounds, drink, food, and games provided. Festivities begin at mid afternoon”

Saturday is two days away. Everyone will be at the party and it appears that games, food, and drink will be in no short supply. Grog is a central figure in Windhorn, beloved and admired, the half-ogre is a retired adventurer who settled in Windhorn to build Grog’s Happy Half-Ogre Tavern and Inn. The party will no doubt be well attended. Despite appearing to be in his forties, it is well known that he must be over one hundred years old, an unusually long age for a half-ogre. Rumors abound as to his longevity and youthful appearance, but all seem willing to attribute it to his good nature and overall positive outlook.

Regarding the other notices, the characters, most having been in Windsong for some time, know the names and places referenced in them. Two of those names, Captain Swiftshine and Theobald Swiftshine, refer to members of the Windguard. The Windguard has been the town militia since Simon Bearclaw started it when the town was founded. There are three full time militia, currently led by Captain Phaedra Swiftshine, great granddaughter of Simon Bearclaw. Her husband, Theobald Swiftshine, a female half-orc named Dorata, and a young centaur named Evred Vost, make up the full time membership. Most able-bodied adults in the area also serve as volunteers in the Windguard and can be called up in times of trouble.

Ballo owns a farm on the north side of town and Ezra runs a very successful distillery, creating whiskeys that are in high demand in the higher paying, larger towns south of Windhorn.

The troubles referred to in these notices are, at least temporarily, overshadowed by the prospect of a great celebration.

What will the town’s young adults, many of them starting out on their own by staying at Minerva’s Boarding House, do until then?

Mole; (RichP) AC 18; HP 11; CMD 13
Monday July 19th, 2021 10:22:29 AM
Mole stands from his usual seat, after finishing a meal and goes to the board. I think it's time ta do something. As he heads for the board, the usual cloud of dust bellows out from him dusting an area a few feet around him as he walks.

He looks over the board for anything that might interest or suite him. Wild beasts killing livestock? "That's interesting. A wild beast, is right in my grindstone." He says aloud.

Turning from the board he says to the room. "Any of ya ladies wanna track down a beast?"

Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.) - HP: 8/8. AC:13
Monday July 19th, 2021 11:31:27 AM
Mortimer raises his head from the table. "I hunted when food was scarce ... I scored many a rabbit and eggs, I did ... and a piglet or two!"

Loryn Glitterfall Dan K
Monday July 19th, 2021 2:54:53 PM
Loryn hops down and totters after Mole. Looking up the board and shielding his eyes from the sun as he scans the higher up notices. 'Not everyone is 6' tall guys' he says slightly under his breath to no one

Loryn give Mole a thumbs up, "i'd certainly be up for that, especially with your woodsy self there Mole

Loryn gives the human a smirk, He was unsure at best about that guy. But, give people a chance, that's what one should do and so he would. "You're in there friend if you want to be"

Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.) - HP: 8/8. AC:13
Monday July 19th, 2021 4:30:27 PM
Upon hearing the gnome's remarks about the woodsy druid, Mortimer blurts out, "HAA!"

He then mutters to himself, "I'm not thaat drunk ... errp, or maybe I am!" He looks at the dwarf again. "Nope!"

Manolo(Michael A) - HP 10/10 AC 17
Monday July 19th, 2021 4:46:20 PM
Manolo wakes up.
There was a small group forming near the board.
He takes a quick look at the board.
"I am not sure about the killing the beast", He says loudly in a concerned voice.
"A wild beast can turn to be a something dangerous we might not able to handle", he adds.
"The other two seem....more doable I guess."

Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.) - HP: 8/8. AC:13
Monday July 19th, 2021 8:45:57 PM
Mortimer wasn't completely honest about his hunting skills. When he said "hunting", he actually meant "stealing". Of course, stealing is a kind of hunting after all. He also has "hunted" more than rabbits and piglets. He's also procured all sorts of rodents, insects, birds, snakes and others he wouldn't dare mention to sensitive ears. Basically anything he could get his hands on. Beggars can't be choosers. He's not particularly proud of this, knowing he came from a once prominent family. A family he knows nothing about other than by name; a very old name. So old no one seems to remember it. A name lost to time and ruin and, very possibly, infamy.

If he is to join this hunt, he will need to return to the tool shed next to the cemetery ... a place he presently calls home. The priestess Noma Sparklescheme allows him to stay there as long as he performs the duties of gravedigger and grounds keeper. A job he actually performs well.

Evred Vost (Tanner) -- HP 16 | AC 15/11/13 | CMD 18 | F+5/R+2/W+0
Tuesday July 20th, 2021 2:55:21 AM
(OOC: Today was a long and rough day. Which does not make for a great first day in a new game! My apologies.)

You see a male centaur. His upper half has sun-bronzed skin and black hair, shaved close and leaving an unruly strip down the center. His armor is well maintained and he carries a lance nonchalantly on one hip. His bottom half is gray with sleek, short fur. He is tall, broad-shouldered, and has a swaggering grin.

Evred is a native of Bearclaw Keep, and the fourth generation of his family to serve in the town militia. He is friends with a few, a friendly acquaintance to many, and very protective of his younger siblings -- three brothers and two sisters. His father retired from active duty a few years ago due to an injury and currently runs training drills for the militia. His mother is a full-time homemaker and part-time nanny.

The centaur struts up to the notice board. "I'm always up for a good hunt. I could probably do it during my shift, too. That certainly sounds like protecting the village, and all."

He eyeballs the group. "You all on board?"

Crowd at the Bearclaw Keep Notice Board (DM John)
Tuesday July 20th, 2021 12:41:26 PM

OOC: To clarify: the message board is outside the gate of Bearclaw Keep. The meal several characters mentioned was had at Minerva’s--not too far away.

“Hmph,” laughs Heorstan at Mole’s comment. Mole gets the impression that the gangly younger man, with unruly brown hair hanging into his eyes is actually amused. Then he continues, “I am happy to leave that to the Windguard, but if Guard Theobold is asking for help, it must be serious.”

Anyone who has been in Windhorn any amount of time knows the following about Heorstan:
Highlight to display spoiler: { Mid-thirties, human, a bit gangly. He is married to Rena. They are rumored to not be getting along too well lately--remember this is a small community. Heorstan has a reputation as the “mad philosopher” or, perhaps, eccentric sage of the community. Heorstan always seems to be full of half-baked ideas about which he gets very enthusiastic. Frequently they work, and there is no one in town he has not helped with some unexpected notion. However, they also often do not work, and have been known to fail spectacularly. There are several people in town who feel he is more of a menace than a benefit. }

Among the midst of all the conversation a small voice, like that of a child, whispers loud enough to easily be heard, ”Maybe it’s not one beast. Maybe it’s a herd of cats.” Given how crowded it is, it is not clear who it was that spoke.

Knowledge local DC 15. Note that residents can make this check even if they are untrained. Highlight to display spoiler: {The mention of cats almost definitely points to Agatha. The young single woman who has several felines living with her in her cottage.}

A strong looking, sinewy human in his twenties and dressed in a simple tunic and trousers is also checking out the notice board. Hearing several people talking about going hunting, he chimes in, “Good luck to ya. Maybe whatever is killing the sheep is what stole Mr. Alberstone’s hams.” [Most will know that Alberstone is Ballo’s last name and that this soft spoken young man is Big Eddie, a farmhand that works for Ballo Aberstone.] He looks very sad as he explains, “Until those hams are found, Mr. Alberstone is docking my pay.” He turns to walk away, obviously on some business errand for his employer.

Torrynashkabbeth d20=10 ;
Tuesday July 20th, 2021 1:14:58 PM
OOC: Local Knowledge failed.

Torryn sidled through the crowd. Her sinewy grace made this easier for her than most She knew that she should have read the notices, but instead absorbed the information from what others said.

"I suppose I could hunt." She answered. It was hardly a response filled with certainty, but she'd only ever been hunting withy her father. He used a bow. She didn't. Sure, she could make the arrows, but lacked the strength to pull the bows he made with their considerable draw weight. However, she did have her spear. Surely that would be enough. her face lit up in excitement. A hunt!

"When do we start?" She almost bounced on her toes in excitement.

Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.) - HP: 8/8. AC:13 d20+1=2 ;
Tuesday July 20th, 2021 3:58:07 PM
(Knowledge [Local]: 2, a natural 1)

Mortimer doesn't consider the cat herding comment at all. He is more concerned about if he was the one who stole the hams. One loud and prolonged growl from his gut tells him otherwise.

If anyone reacts to his guttural grievances, he says, "Yeah, that sound came from ME! Gimme a turkey leg and I'll make it stop!"

Back to the conversation about a little adventure. "Yeah ... why not. I'm game! This thievery has got to STOP! These burglars are right foul gits, they are!"

Manolo(Michael A) - HP 10/10 AC 17
Tuesday July 20th, 2021 6:46:41 PM
Manolo agrees reluctantly.
"I am up for the hunting but after that we should help everybody else as well....even if it is less....violent ", he says referring to the others posts/jobs on the notice board.

Manolo(Michael A) - HP 10/10 AC 17 d20+6=8 ;
Tuesday July 20th, 2021 6:50:07 PM
Local Knowledge 8

Mole; (RichP) AC 18; HP 11; CMD 13
Tuesday July 20th, 2021 11:57:29 PM
"What would a scrawny little lass know of dwarves." He says in response to Mortimer.

"Well lad," he says to Manolo, "I'd prefer to handle the beast without killin' it, if it's just a hungry animal. If I can't reason with it, then more permanent measures will have to be used."

Mole looks over the group of volunteers. Most were scrawny. The centaur seem strong enough, at first glance.

"Alright then," he says, "the names Grund Fyrbend, but most just call me Mole. We can head out when the little lass there finishes his dinner."

Loryn Glitterfall AC 13 HP 8 Dan K d20+2=10 ; d20=19 ;
Wednesday July 21st, 2021 1:08:12 AM
Loryn looks about for the voice making mention of the cats, even though he of course thought no such thing. (Perception 19)
"I dont think we will be tracking thieves friend" Loryn responds to Mortimer. "Rings more of hungry animals to me, like a wolf pack or coyote. Sheep and ham are tasty treats indeed" He adds with a charming easy smile

The centaur certainly added punch to the group forming up about him, but it was also getting mighty crowded on the 25gp and now the dancer girl was looking to go as well

Loryn shrugged, there wouldn't be much coin for it, but it would be some excitement and a little extra coin right before or after the big party was a good idea

"OK," The gnome begins, "I'm Loryn Glitterfall, sorcerer and cooking enthusiest. Looks like 6 of us. Splitting the reward straight across agreeable right?"

Evred Vost (Tanner) -- HP 16 | AC 15/11/13 | CMD 18 | F+5/R+2/W+0
Wednesday July 21st, 2021 1:35:02 AM
Evred furrowed his eyebrows. "Twenty-five divided six ways is four and... something." He shrugs. "Or we could just say four gold pieces and we split some jalapeno poppers at Grog's with the extra one." He claps his hand on the pommel of his lance. " Let's roll out "

Torrynashkabbeth
Wednesday July 21st, 2021 7:02:29 AM
And just like that it was decided.
"Oh wait! I need to fetch my spear." She interjected. "It won't take long, I promise." She didn't want to mis out on the excitement. A thought struck just before she darted off. "Um...hungry animals don't drink much whisky though, do they?" Again she smiled enchantingly. She'd missed her cue though, giving neither her name nor skill set. this was largely attributable to the fact that she believed everyone knew her. She was Torrynashkabbeth (Torryn mostly unless she was in trouble) and was undoubtedly the finest dancer in all of Windhorn. The last was possibly an exaggeration, but she was undeniably gifted, graceful and light on her feet.

Manolo(Michael A) - HP 10/10 AC 17
Wednesday July 21st, 2021 7:36:01 AM
Manolo agrees.
"We can split the gold and for the reminder of the money we will find a solution later ", he simply says as he begins to put his backpack and hiding his dagger in a handy place.

Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 8/8 d20+5=17 ;
Wednesday July 21st, 2021 9:34:30 AM
"Planning on catching some cats without me." the tall, lanky human Ash says as he cuts through the crowd to his fellow travelers that he has come to know.

"that lass ... uh,... um" he stutters for a second " Agatha, yes thats its. Agatha has a lot of cats. Perhaps she is someone we need to discuss this with.

Crowd at the Bearclaw Keep Notice Board (DM John)
Wednesday July 21st, 2021 12:05:07 PM

OOC to Shawn: DM Steve and I need access to your character sheet so that we can approve it before Ash can participate. When I click on the link it currently leads to a restricted document.

And just like that, several acquaintances within Windsong decide to join up to hunt a dangerous beast. Off they head, some more enthusiastic than others and others more enthusiastic about their new colleagues than some.

Several bystanders notice the plan being formed. A few nod in admiration, others shake their head at what they judge to be youthful folly. Only Heorstan reacts with more than a look or an expression. “Should you wish to capture it alive perhaps these may help,” he says as he pulls out a set of manacles along with its key. He then heads back in the direction of his cottage.

Now that a course of action has been agreed upon, where do our intrepid hunters wish to start their search?

Torrynashkabbeth
Wednesday July 21st, 2021 5:08:35 PM
Torryn had missed the donation of the manacles, but arrived back in very short order, spear clutched in hand and her best, winning smile in place. She had no armour, no shield and seemingly less muscle, but made up for those deficiencies with enthusiasm and optimism.

"So, what did I miss?" She asks no one in particular. "Are we going to the farm? There might be tracks or something." She looked up at the sky. The weather always played a significant part in pursuing quarry. Well, so her father maintained. She studied the clouds for a moment, but came to no conclusion other than that they remained as inscrutable as ever.

Evred Vost (Tanner) -- HP 16 | AC 15/11/13 | CMD 18 | F+5/R+2/W+0
Wednesday July 21st, 2021 6:55:26 PM
"First, we need to go and talk with Theobald. He'd be at Bearclaw Keep right now. Goodman Alberstone probably asked Theobald to come and take a look at his farm already. If Theobald could figure it out, it wouldn't be on the job board. Talking with him and finding out what he already knows could save us a lot of time. No sense repeating something he already did." Evred cocks a thumb in the direction of the keep. "Shall we?"

Loryn Glitterfall AC 13 HP 8 Dan K
Wednesday July 21st, 2021 9:14:02 PM
Loryn shoots Torryn a thumbs up and a smile, “didn’t miss a thing” and his gaze goes up with hers to see what she’s looking at. The gnome doesn’t see anything, “looks like clouds.”

“Sounds like a fine course of action to me Evred. Let’s get stepping”.

The young gnome then sets off at a brisk pace, for him
Speed 15

Manolo(Michael A) - HP 10/10 AC 17
Wednesday July 21st, 2021 9:17:15 PM
Manolo goes as well.

Torrynashkabbeth d20=17 ;
Thursday July 22nd, 2021 7:06:06 AM
Evred's words made a lot of sense. Why hadn't she thought of that? She shrugged the notion away. It wasn't important. Someone had thought of it and that was the main thing.

"All ready now." She informed the others as she duly set forth. The pace wasn't overly swift for Torryn, but she ended up taking as many steps as Loryn as she she skipped around and attempted to twirl her spear in the impressive fashion that Agratha did.

Agratha, the elderly halfling woman was, according to her father, a repository of great knowledge and would instil in Torryn some much needed discipline. She remained unconvinced. She had discipline enough to master many dances!

Determined to show that she could pay attention, she twirled her staff enthusiastically. And didn't drop it.

[17! Success!]

Mole; (RichP) AC 18; HP 11; CMD 13
Thursday July 22nd, 2021 7:56:11 AM
The manacles didn't seem too useful on a beast hunt. "Those don't make the dangerous parts of beast less dangerous." he says to Heorstan. "Unless this isn't the kind beast with teeth and claws."

He shrugs off the idea. They'll find out soon enough.

"Alright, let's see what Theobald's gotta say." He says moving out.

Dwarves move at dwarven speed and Mole was no different. He trudged along trailing behind he humans and centaur. He decides to keep pace with Loryn since it was more his speed.

Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.) - HP: 8/8. AC:13
Thursday July 22nd, 2021 11:17:39 AM
Margrave thinks hard about what he has that would pass for adventuring gear. All he has is back at his tool shed home. There is a collection of dusty trinkets and rusty tools there that could possibly be used as weapons. There's that old, rusty dagger that the previous caretaker fashioned out of an old, broken pair of shears. There's a fairly decent hammer and a relatively new sickle that he uses to trim the grass ..."that's plenty sharp, it is!"

He hurries back with his adventuring gear, all ready to go!

Meeting Theobald Swiftshine (DM John)
Thursday July 22nd, 2021 1:02:18 PM

Torrynashkabbeth Suggests going to one of the farms to search for clues, but heeds Evred’s advice.Please put a link into your character sheet in your header.
Evred counters by suggesting checking with Theobald first.
Loryn agrees with Evred. Please put a link into your character sheet in your header.
Manolo goes along. Please put a link into your character sheet in your header.
Mole questions the usefulness of manacles and goes along to Bearclaw Keep.
Mortimer equips up and joins the rest.

Bearclaw Keep is literally in the center of town. Built for defense, it is square in shape and large enough to temporarily house the residents of Windhorn during an emergency. Stocked with weapons, dry food, and first aid supplies, it serves as shelter in times of attack or calamity. In addition to providing for the general defense, it also functions as the seat of government housing offices for the Farmer’s Coop, the Mayor, other organizations, and the Windguard. The latter is where, as Evred expected, Theobald is to be found.

Things are typically very informal in Windhorn, so the group of prospective bounty hunters has no problem entering the keep nor making their way into the Windguard office. Inside this office, seated on a desk, notably not behind it in a chair, is a middle aged man wearing studded leather and soft leather leggings. The light green cloak designating him as a member of the Windguard is casually draped over the back of the vacant desk chair. A well honed boar spear and a well made heavy crossbow are conveniently located on the inside of the open door. This is Theobald Swiftshine, full-time member of the guard, husband of the guard captain, and well respected trapper and hunter. He looks up curiously as he sees the group approach, his eyes alert and perceptive. When he notices Evred among them, he visibly relaxes. ”Yes?” he asks, never one to have much need to use many words when a single one would suffice.

Evred Vost (Tanner) -- HP 16 | AC 15/11/13 | CMD 18 | F+5/R+2/W+0
Thursday July 22nd, 2021 1:57:00 PM
Evred pauses to stomp his hooves on the doormat before entering. "If you don't mind, ladies and gents. The militia has to sweep and mop their own floors. Which means yours truly one week a month."

"Morning, Theo." Evred raises a palm in greeting. "We saw the posting for Goodman Alberstone's farm on the job board. If there wasn't anything else going on, I was going to accompany this group to investigate. I thought you might have already visited the farm and could give us a briefing so we're not just re-tracing your steps?"

Loryn Glitterfall AC 13 HP 8 Dan K
Thursday July 22nd, 2021 4:25:14 PM
The keep had always impressed the young gnome, though he was, at the same time, not altogether fond of it. Sure, he understood the purpose of the structure and certainly respected the practicality of it. It simply did not suit his sense of style and artistic whimsy. In short, it could use less human and more gnome. During the relatively short walk, Loryn appreciates and does so state, that Mole slows to keep the gnomes much slower pace. A thought of sorrow crosses his mind as he looks past to Evred. Poor centaur, the humans about were literally twice as fast as he was and the centaur covered more ground still. Must be driving him mad.

At the doorway, Loryn peers down at his feet and then strains back up to look at Evred. His black leather shoes were quite clean, a benefit of not weighing as much as a horse he supposed. Looking back and peering round he gives a small finger waggling wave to Theobald and slips into the room. Evred had the right of what they were looking for and so Loryn simply stands, slightly swaying to and froe from heel to toe with a charming smile upon his face.

Ill get the link set up later tonight

Torrynashkabbeth
Thursday July 22nd, 2021 6:44:34 PM
Seeing Loryn's reaction, Torryn checked her own footwear. They didn't look bad: not at all. It wasn't as if it had been raining. She skipped in without touching the mat and leant against the wall to the left bracing her spear before her, with an impish grin. This was all new and exciting. She'd never been inside the keep before. Sure, she'd been threatened with it on many occasions, but her flirtatious smile had managed to get her out some unwanted situations. She was pretty. She drew attention: not all of it good. Still, she knew she was pretty and wasn't afraid to milk that where necessary. Now was not such a time. So she stayed quietly at the back. Someone cleverer than her would ask the relevant questions she was sure.

She looked around at the others. They all seemed competent in their own way; even the strange grave digger. Hopefully no one would think to actually ask what she was good at - other than dancing.

Manolo(Michael A) - HP 10/10 AC 17
Thursday July 22nd, 2021 9:31:51 PM
Manolo takes a look at the keep, he always looked at it from the outside but never from the inside.
"It doesn't look like a typical keep or fort in Effacia...but it seems effective to the area", he comments as they walk towards Theobald's office.

He still remembers everything, as if it happened a few days or weeks ago.

Torrynashkabbeth
Friday July 23rd, 2021 5:09:31 AM
Torryn waited patiently for everyone to file in, or at least as patiently as she could manage, which unusually for her, was sufficient. Her mind though, had already drifted on to other matters: the festivities. There would be dancing. It was all very exciting, but then so was hunting for a thief. The latter was very new and somewhat daunting. Luckily, she could contemplate dance moves and differing music to distract her from any nerves. In other words - she was daydreaming.

Mole; (RichP) AC 18; HP 11; CMD 13 d20+8=17 ;
Saturday July 24th, 2021 11:57:46 AM
Mole maintains his cautious nature as the group travels to Bearclaw Keep. He doesn't have much to say as they move through the town.

So many human moving in a rush from one place to another. That was not the dwarf way. Slow and steady was the dwarf way; often referred to by other races as dwarven speed. It usually was used as an insult to most races, but dwarves paid it no mind.

He waits outside and lets the others learn what the job is about. He does keep an ear out for the discussion inside.

Meeting Theobald Swiftshine (DM John)
Saturday July 24th, 2021 2:16:27 PM

Evred opens the conversation.
Loryn greets Theobald and cheerfully awaits a response.
Torrynashkabbeth enters, but remains to the back, and finds herself thinking of the upcoming party.
Manolo observes the keep.
Mole and Mortimer stay silent.

Theobald’s left eyebrow raises slightly at Evred’s greeting. This is then followed by a slight glance at the others. Evred automatically and any others who succeed on a Sense Motive DC 12 Highlight to display spoiler: {You perceive that Theobald is not offended by the casual greeting itself, but is mindful that it might be misunderstood by those not members of the guard.}
The guard nods in recognition of Loryn’s greeting and the presence of the other in general.

He looks a bit puzzled at Evred’s request at first, but appears to understand. ”Ahh, Mr. Alberstone’s hams. The captain is handling that one, but she did mention the details to me. If you know something, I will forward it to her so that she can follow up.”

OOC: Just to clarify about the different notices and make sure we are all on the same page. Missing hams are from the Ballo Alberstone farm; Captain Swiftshine, Theobald’s wife, is handling the investigation. Wild beast attacks are at multiple, as yet, unspecified farms. Theobald is handling the investigation. There is a reward posted for the capture of the beast, but not for the recovery of the hams.”

Evred Vost (Tanner) -- HP 16 | AC 15/11/13 | CMD 18 | F+5/R+2/W+0
Saturday July 24th, 2021 9:58:30 PM
"Oh, my mistake. I was confusing which farm was missing what... Militiaman Theobald." Evred gives a nod of respect. He was still relatively new to the town militia, and was still becoming accustomed to protocols and decorum.

"Can you tell us more about the beast?"

Torrynashkabbeth d20=5 ;
Sunday July 25th, 2021 4:53:40 AM
"And the whisky!" Torryn piped up from the back. When attention turned to her, she smiled and shrugged. "Might as well - just in case. Um....carry on" She finished rather feebly, but the smile didn't fade. That smile had got her out of a lot of trouble.

[Sense Motive 5+1=6. Fail]

She actually felt rather pleased with herself. She consider dance steps and still listen to what was happening around her. And to think, her father said she lacked focus!

Loryn Glitterfall AC 13 HP 8 Dan K d20=15 ;
Sunday July 25th, 2021 12:02:15 PM
Loren notes the glance and provides a nod, “Sir.” He simply states in greeting

There was little else he could think of, perhaps some dried and crushed spice pepper for the rabbit earlier

Manolo(Michael A) - HP 10/10 AC 17
Sunday July 25th, 2021 7:04:10 PM
Manolo listens to the conversation.
All this talking about stolen ham got him hungry, he takes a bite from his trail ration.

Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.) - HP: 8/8. AC:13
Sunday July 25th, 2021 9:05:05 PM
Mortimer is only halfway listening, something seems to have distracted him.

"What's that luv?" he mutters in a low tone. His eyes slowly look about curiously.

"I hear a wind, whistling air. Whispering... in my ear." His attention nervously returns back to the group. He quickly employs a well-practiced look of nonchalance; hoping to appear innocent of madness. He thought this little "holiday" with these strangers was the distraction he needed. Apparently not, the stranger things seem to be doubling their efforts at disturbing him.

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 9 AC:14
Monday July 26th, 2021 6:24:18 AM
Mortimer was odd. Then again, there were some that said the same of her. Yet she was 'odd' in a good way, or so she liked to think. It wasn't really a major concern. Finding out what was known, where they should head and what they'd find was. She switched her attention swiftly back to the front. If she found the whisky maybe Agratha would go easy on her. It was worth a try. So with a free hand she swept her platinum- almost silvery - blonde hair back so that Theobald could see she was paying attention. She had a lot of hair. Often she left it loose. It could then provide a useful curtain to mask her emotions.

Meeting Theobald Swiftshine (DM John)
Monday July 26th, 2021 10:06:41 AM

Evred amends his request and shifts to a more formal form of address in front of the others.
Torrynashkabbeth mentions the missing whisky.
Loryn remains respectful.
Manolo’s stomach requires attention after the mention of food.
Mortimer is momentarily distracted by voices not of this room.
Mole
Ash

Theobald suppresses a smile at both Evred’s and the young woman’s awkwardness. Then his face turns grim as he considers his answer. “Well. That’s the problem. The beast leaves no sign of its passing. No tracks. No scat. Nothing. Well nothing, except for a few scratch marks on the window sill” He pauses, his face pensive in recollection. Suddenly, he shudders. “And it mutilates its prey. It’s as if whatever it is enjoys killing. Furthermore, in each case, it chose a ewe as its victim, while ignoring her lambs. The lambs are much easier prey, but it chose the mother, leaving her lambs as orphans.” He shakes his head in dismay at what he obviously considers to be unnatural destructiveness.

At this time of year, mid-spring, when the ewes are lambing, the sheep are kept inside sheds at night. The door and window covers would be closed and latched, but none of the farmers have locks on either.

Further questions of Theobald reveal that he could find no signs of tracks around the building and that the farmers claimed the door and windows were closed when they found the dead sheep inside. Theobald did find scratches around the window, indicating to him that this was the point of entry, but whatever it was closed the window cover behind itself when it left. Also, the fleeing predator left no blood trail and he did one of the lambs smeared with blood as if something used it to wipe itself off.

As he finishes his explanation, he turns to the would be adventures, his voice low and serious, “Now you know more than most folk. Word spreads quickly in Windhorn, so it’s no use trying to keep this quiet, but please, I ask of you, try not to make too big a deal of this to folks. Please understand: whatever this may be is not a simple beast. Should you decide to hunt for it, use extreme caution.”

Evred Vost (Tanner) -- HP 16 | AC 15/11/13 | CMD 18 | F+5/R+2/W+0
Monday July 26th, 2021 2:43:06 PM
Evred furrows his eyebrows. "Few questions, sir." He counts one finger. "You said the ewes were mutilated. Did it look like they were mauled with teeth and claws? Carved with a blade? If something left scratch marks on the windowsill, then it was probably something smart enough to open a window in the first place. Maybe a goblin or a kobold. Because on one hand I could see a ewe trying to protect her lambs, and she takes wounds in the fight, but if something was trying to torture the poor thing, that sounds more like rituals or witchcraft or something."

He counts a second finger. "Were parts of them missing? Gnawed off or cut off? If something was missing, was it meat, organs, whole limbs? Were there any blood spatters on the windowsill or just outside?"

He counts a third finger. "Do we know of any goblins or kobolds or their ilk near Windhorn? Has anything like this happened in the past?"

He smiles and nods to indicate he is finished for now.

Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 8/8 d20+6=13 ;
Monday July 26th, 2021 6:14:56 PM
"Sorry,sorry.. " Ash says as he again comes to his new compatriots. "I keep getting side tracked, but I should be good now. "
Listening to the description, Ash tries to recall a creature that would intelligently hunt, and select its prey to showcase wickedness.

Knowledge Nature 13

Manolo(Michael A) - HP 10/10 AC 17 d20=6 ;
Monday July 26th, 2021 8:33:13 PM
Manolo tries to think about his very limited experience in the past and says bluntly without thinking, expressing his thought process.

"So we are dealing with something that might prefer to kill out of joy.
Deciding to kill in an intelligent and cruel manner as it prefers to kill the mother rather than the young ones and it is also able to open and close a window ..without ! .... leaving obvious mark "

"Is it possible that it is a magical thing or something rare and exotic?", he asks the party with a confused look hoping someone else might have a better idea or knowledge about what the might be dealing with.

Aid Another 6

OOC: (helping Ash unless someone has a better skill roll )

Mole; (RichP) AC 18; HP 11; CMD 13 d20+7=23 ;
Monday July 26th, 2021 10:43:24 PM
Mole listens to the descriptions given about the beast. He tries to think of a beast, natural or otherwise, that might be the culprit, nature knowledge DC 23.

He yells out "Let's get goin'. Not gonna learn anymore here. Gotta go to the farm."

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 9 AC:14
Tuesday July 27th, 2021 4:56:59 AM
That seemed like a good idea to Torryn. She'd considered the conundrum and got precisely nowhere with it. Perhaps if she'd actually paid attention to her father's lessons about hunting she might have had a clue. However, he tended to whisper a lot and there was a LOT of standing around doing nothing. She didn't excel at that. So her attention had wandered, often. Luckily that wasn't an issue here as they seemed intent on doing something. Doing was better than talking....mostly. That seemed to depend on who you talked to. She stopped trying to analyse the situation. It was only taking her in circles.

"Yes, let's go to the farm." She echoed Mole's suggestion offering a winning smile as extra support.

Meeting Theobald Swiftshine (DM John)
Tuesday July 27th, 2021 11:45:20 AM

Evred follows up with more questions.
Ash tries to imagine what kind of creature might be behind such attacks, but nothing comes to mind.
Manolo reacts Theobald’s reporting and speculates they might be dealing with something exotic, but has no idea himself what it might be.
Mole considers what he has heard and also attempts to identify what it may be. Then proposes to go to the farm. Mole only Highlight to display spoiler: {Not enough information to pinpoint, but this is definitely not a normal animal, nor does it match the behavior of any monstrous humanoid.You are fairly certain that you can rule both types of creatures out.}

Torrynashkabbeth echoes Mole’s suggestion.
Mortimer
Loryn

Evred asks, "You said the ewes were mutilated. Did it look like they were mauled with teeth and claws? Carved with a blade? If something left scratch marks on the windowsill, then it was probably something smart enough to open a window in the first place. Maybe a goblin or a kobold. Because on one hand I could see a ewe trying to protect her lambs, and she takes wounds in the fight, but if something was trying to torture the poor thing, that sounds more like rituals or witchcraft or something."

Theobald nods gravely, but approvingly at Evred’s question, then answers, ““The wounds looked like what you would expect from claws and teeth, not weapons.

"Were parts of them missing? Gnawed off or cut off? If something was missing, was it meat, organs, whole limbs? Were there any blood spatters on the windowsill or just outside?"

“It’s difficult to tell what was missing. When I say shredded, I mean it literally. I’ve never seen such wanton destruction of living flesh. Having said that, it didn’t really appear that much was gone. I’d expect a beast to eat more of its prey than this attacker seemed to and were it some ritualistic slaying. Well, there wasn’t much left intact to do much with. There were no splatters or smears of blood on the window or outside. There were blood smears on the ewe’s two lambs. The killer apparently used them to clean itself off before it fled.”

Evred closes his questions with, "Do we know of any goblins or kobolds or their ilk near Windhorn? Has anything like this happened in the past?"

“There are definitely goblins in Red Hills. Not much in the way of kobolds. We haven’t had much trouble with such creatures in Windhorn for years and any trouble we had would be of the raiding and stealing variety.”

Theobald responds to the suggestion to go to the farm, “You are welcome to go look for yourselves. Be sure to tell Goodman Hendrick that you spoke with me first. I doubt you will find anything though. It’s been a couple of days and I’m sure Hendrick wanted to remove any trace of the attack.”

Theobald waits patiently to see if his visitors have any further questions.

Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.) - HP: 8/8. AC:13
Tuesday July 27th, 2021 5:14:53 PM
Mortimer's jaw is still dropped by the words of the centaur. He wonders what side of the nightmare did he wake up from this morning. At the beginning of this little adventure, he thought they were out to locate some missing hams .... not some large, mutant birds with fangs and a taste for blood!

His stomach grumbles a bit more. Then again, he thinks, a nice, bloody steak would sound nice right about now!

Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.) - HP: 8/8. AC:13
Tuesday July 27th, 2021 5:31:03 PM
Mortimer pauses ... jaw no longer dropped. He seems more puzzled now. He thinks to himself, 'Hooks and crooks ... Where did mutant, birds with fangs come from? Is this it ... am I going mad?'

Manolo(Michael A) - HP 10/10 AC 17
Tuesday July 27th, 2021 9:34:15 PM
Manolo loses appetite after hearing all the gory details.

Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 8/8
Tuesday July 27th, 2021 9:35:51 PM
Ash ponders for a second, but nothing comes to him.

" it obviously has to be a creature of some intelligence. Its choosing its targets, in a sadistic fashion. Maybe this farmer has an eneny he doesn't realize. "

Evred Vost (Tanner) -- HP 16 | AC 15/11/13 | CMD 18 | F+5/R+2/W+0
Tuesday July 27th, 2021 11:48:28 PM
Evred nods in appreciation. "Thank you, sir. I don't have any other questions."

He looks to the group. "I am ready to go and look at the farm. It sounds like something sadistic and wanton. Perhaps a goblin or some dark fey creature. Either way, we need to lay eyes on it."

Mole; (RichP) AC 18; HP 11; CMD 13
Wednesday July 28th, 2021 12:50:48 AM
"It's not any animal I know of." He says. "Like I said, let's go to the farm. I'll ask the animals what it is." Mole heads out.

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 9 AC:14
Wednesday July 28th, 2021 7:32:57 AM
Asking the animals? It was likely a good idea, but she was doubtful that they'd impart much more than they already had. Her own thinking was that it was a cultist; someone dedicated to chaos and destruction, perhaps even masquerading as a creature. She'd heard tell of claw-like blades that were carried in the fist

That Mr Goodman had an enemy was also an intriguing notion. She felt it unlikely, but then she wasn't that familiar with the folk of the 'town'. Overall, she concluded that it was best to go with an open mind and see what they found - but it wouldn't be Fey. That wasn't a conclusion dictated by logic, but bias. She'd often been called Fey herself and had long since decided that it was no bad thing.

She smiled her thanks to Evred: a cheeky, confident smile that unfortunately spoke of enthusiasm triumphing over experience.

Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.) - HP: 8/8. AC:13 d20+1=8 ;
Wednesday July 28th, 2021 10:11:57 AM
He attempts to silence the inner monologuing and consider things helpful to the task at hand. He wonders if these are pesky goblins or other little nasties of that sort.

(Knowledge [Local]: 8)

"Where there any horses present at any of the crimes? I hear that goblins are terrified of horses. If there be horses nearby, that could rule out those rat-faced buggers."

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 9 AC:14
Wednesday July 28th, 2021 10:22:41 AM
Torryn's head whipped around at Mortimer's remark. Goblins were scared of horses? That was news to her! Then it registered that it was indeed Mortimer who was speaking. He didn't always seem to be quite 'with it' at times. She assumed that this was one of those times.

Hendrick's Farm (DM John)
Wednesday July 28th, 2021 10:44:32 AM

Mortimer is puzzled by the account and asks about horses. He is told that the Hendricks do not own horses.
Manolo turns a bit green.
Ash comments, raising the possibility that the farmer has an enemy.
Evred thanks the guardsman and suggests going to the farm.
Mole suggests going to the farm and speaking with the animals.
Torrynashkabbeth considers what they have learned...and what they haven’t.

Theobald tilts his head slightly at Ash’s comment. “That’s a disturbing thought. The Hendricks are good folk, but I will ask around to see if someone has something against them I haven’t heard of.” He bids you farewell with a wave, obviously already considering the things raised in this exchange.

The Hendrick's farm is easy to locate. Being not too far from the center of the small hamlet, it takes little time for the group of investigators to make their way there. The house is typical of most farmhouses here, having a short foundation wall of limestone from the nearby coast topped with a timber frame in-filled with wattle and daub. The roof is of thatch. An outbuilding stands next to the house, the roofs of the two buildings nearly touching. This outbuilding sports a wide door, currently open and a window opening on each side. The openings have wooden panels on the outside that drop down to cover them. These panels are currently propped open with a board designed for that purpose. Noteworthy above the door and each window is a symbol of Wardd constructed of roughly twisted fiber. These are immediately recognizable as protective charms. Knowledge arcana or religion DC 10 Highlight to display spoiler: {Probably worthless, but many people find comfort in using them.}

As they approach, chickens scramble away from them and a small dog rises from where it was laying near the house door, barking to announce the visitors. A sturdy man, probably in his thirties, his skin brown and leathery from the sun, steps out of the barn. Not too far behind him, a similarly built boy in his mid-teens steps out, staying about two steps behind his elder. This is Sturm Hendricks and his son, Devin.

Sturm stares a moment, his eyes squinting from having just been in the darker interior of the barn, before nodding in greeting. Not one to mince words, he calls out, “After the reward are ya’? Well, the quicker you have a look around, the sooner I can get back to work. Devin will show you around.”

A woman, Strum’s wife, Maga, steps into view in the doorway of the house, maintaining a firm grip on the shoulder of little Maggie, an inquisitive girl of four.

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 9 AC:14
Wednesday July 28th, 2021 11:21:23 AM
Torryn smiled at Devin. She'd seen him looking at her when she danced and wondered if he'd blush as much as he did the last time she caught him staring. She didn't mean any ill by it. It was just a bit of fun and Devin would likely relish the attention, albeit once he was away from his father's gaze.

She skipped along to to take her place next to him. he seemed tall for his age or maybe she really was as short as everyone maintained. She certainly had none of her father's height: a matter her teased her mother about endlessly.

"Let's take a look inside, please Devin." She asked in a sultry voice, not much more than a whisper.. As much as teasing the boy was fun, she actually wanted to look around inside. She had some ideas. It would be best to act befoe she forgot them!

Evred Vost (Tanner) -- HP 16 | AC 15/11/13 | CMD 18 | F+5/R+2/W+0
Wednesday July 28th, 2021 8:53:01 PM
Evred raises an eyebrow at Torryn's tone. He had heard that tone before, and usually before some poor village boy started getting starry-eyed and twitter-pated. He clears his throat and hails the farmer.

"Goodman Hendricks! Well met. Yes, we're here to try and help. I would like to take a look first, then ask you some questions, if you don't mind." He follows after Devin.

Manolo(Michael A) - HP 10/10 AC 17
Wednesday July 28th, 2021 9:05:50 PM
Manolo follows the group still thinking about the details he have heard,
"We need to take a look", he says.
'surely if we all look together, we might find something no one else noticed before ', Manolo thinks to himself.

Manolo(Michael A) - HP 10/10 AC 17
Wednesday July 28th, 2021 9:05:54 PM
Manolo follows the group still thinking about the details he have heard,
"We need to take a look", he says.
'surely if we all look together, we might find something no one else noticed before ', Manolo thinks to himself.

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 9 AC:14 d20=7 ;
Thursday July 29th, 2021 5:26:28 AM
Torryn had some small familiarity with magic. It was her intent to call upon that ability to seek anything others might have missed. She didn't really expect to find much though. It was, she felt, more likely that six pairs of eyes would uncover something that one or two wouldn't. In that regard she agreed with Manolo.

OOC:
Once out of sight of Goodman Hendricks she'll cast Detect Magic and then rely on her mighty skills of Perception.: 7+2=9. With her keen interest in all things Fey, she will not merely be looking down, but up - to the rafters, as well. Are there any lingering smells? Were any noted at the time?

Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 8/8 d20+6=8 ; d20+6=19 ;
Thursday July 29th, 2021 8:54:37 AM
Ash gives a polite nod and wave, and looks around with the others. He cannot fathom what the holy symbol by the door means.

Mole; (RichP) AC 18; HP 11; CMD 13 d20+8=23 ; d20+10=14 ;
Thursday July 29th, 2021 10:28:56 AM
Mole looks at the farm, modest, it reminds him of many of the homesteads he came across in his travels while going to Bearclaw Keep.

"Listen lass we're not here ta flirt." He says to Torryn. "Boy, be wary of that one. She'll chew you up and toss you aside." He says to Devin.

"I'm gonna take a look around the barn first." Mole says and moves off the check around the barn and the treeline.

Perception DC 23 to find tracks, Survival DC 14 follow tracks

Hendrick's Farm (DM John)
Thursday July 29th, 2021 11:05:45 AM

Torrynashkabbeth enters the barn while flirting with young Devin and casts detect magic.
Evred, Ash and Manolo join them, the latter hoping that they might discover something overlooked by others.
Mole calls out Torryn and starts searching.

Devin gives Mole a grateful look, clearly discomforted by Torrynashkabeth’s attention. He quickly enters, leading the way and manages to position the centaur between her and himself. As predicted by Theobald, the Hendricks wasted no time cleaning up the barn. Fresh straw has obviously been added, and it appears that steps have been taken to keep the two orphan lambs fed. After a couple of stammering attempts to speak, Devin manages to add words to his gestures. “The ewe was there,” he states, pointing to an empty stall floored with fresh hay. He then points to the one window. “Guardsman Swiftshine thinks the beast entered through there.” He then steps back to allow them to look for themselves, continuing to put himself as far away from the pretty half-elf as possible.

Mole takes a look around, searching the ground around the barn and house to the edge of the property marked by a low stone fence. There are not many trees here, as all have been cut long ago. Meanwhile, Torrynashkabbeth takes a look inside the barn using detect magic.

Torrynashkabbeth only Highlight to display spoiler: {Nothing radiates magic, including the protective charms over the windows and door. You notice nothing unusual in the rafters nor any out of place odors.}

Mole only Highlight to display spoiler: {OOC: Given that Mole is searching a large area, including searching to the property boundary, the DM has decided that, with that perception result, this search included the area around the house. Mole finds a single track at the base of the house on the side opposite the barn. The barn and house are close enough that if a creature climbed up the house, it could easily access the roof of the barn. The track is birdlike, with three toes ending in long talons. Mole thinks these tracks were left by something larger and heavier than a bird though. It appears that an attempt was made to wipe away the tracks, but one was missed. He is unable to follow any kind of trail because of this.”}

Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 8/8 d20+1=5 ; d20+1=16 ;
Thursday July 29th, 2021 11:16:09 AM
Ash moves by the window, and closely looks around for any markings, or tracks. (Perception 5).
He'll move to outside the window, and see if anything leads away from the house to the woods or fields. (Perception 16)

Loryn Glitterfall; AC 13 HP 8 Dan K
Thursday July 29th, 2021 11:18:26 AM
Loryn snaps out of his daze and apologisies. "Sorry friends, suddenly i was in the mountains far away and well," his shoulders slump slightly, "Well I was just too tired. I'll be sure to put in at the Giggling Ghost next time."

Loryn follows along and eventually arrives at the farm as well. He nods to Devin and follows to the barn. WHile Mole investigates the window and general area, Loryn walks over to the ewes.

He breathes out and calls upon the innate power of his people and puts a gentle hand on one of them.
cast Speak with animals
"Hello my friends I am hoping you can help us. Several nights ago something entered this barn and attacked. What can you tell me of it? How Big? How many? Sounds and walking like the humans? Or like a dog?"

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 9 AC:14
Thursday July 29th, 2021 4:55:20 PM
Her investigations, rudimentary as they were, led to an unsettling thought: what if Mr Hendricks had perpetrated the barbarous slaughter? She felt guilty for even thinking it. She certainly wasn't going to voice such concerns aloud. She'd need proof and lots of it before she did something like that. The thought was consigned to the back of her mind where, she felt, it rightfully belonged. There had to be a better explanation than that. Perhaps Loryn's "conversation" with the sheep would yield more positive results.

While she waited she turned to Devin, awarding him one of her winning smiles.

"So, what do you think happened here?" She asked casually. Adults had a tendency to discount the testimony of youth. She, being decidedly youthful herself, had no such prejudices or preconceptions in that regard.

Manolo (Michael A) - HP 10/10 AC 17 d20=7 ;
Thursday July 29th, 2021 9:36:52 PM
Manolo goes after Ash, "You are starting to look after clues already", he says and tries to follow him and help him in finding whatever it is they are looking for.

Aid another 7, helping Ash.

Evred Vost (Tanner) -- HP 16 | AC 15/11/13 | CMD 18 | F+5/R+2/W+0 d20=17 ;
Thursday July 29th, 2021 11:58:25 PM
Evred surveys the scene.

Perception 17

Mole; (RichP) AC 18; HP 11; CMD 13 d20+7=21 ;
Friday July 30th, 2021 9:17:07 AM
Mole searches the area and stops at the house. He looks at the tracks to determine if he recognizes the creature who made the tracks. He takes the time to circle the tracks on the ground.

After a complete search of the area he returns to the barn and the others.

Entering the barn, he says "I found something."

Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.) - HP: 8/8. AC:13
Friday July 30th, 2021 9:30:06 AM
(ooc: sorry for missing some posts. my work can best be described as "running with the bulls" and for the past week ive gotten trampled repeatedly.)

Margrave looks around. A barn isn't exactly his scene, but he's lived in far worse places but in a more urban setting. At least it's quiet and peaceful here ... with an exception to the bloody attack.

Hendrick's Farm (DM John)
Friday July 30th, 2021 12:44:20 PM

Ash looks inside and out but finds nothing even with Manolo’s assistance.
Loryn starts speaking with the animals.
Torrynashkabbeth considers that Farmer Hendricks might be guilty, then questions Devin.
Manolo assists Ash. Manolo’s perception bonus is +5. With a roll of 7 that exceeds the DC 10 to aid, giving a +2 to Ash’s check.
Evred joins in with the search, but finds nothing more.
Mole reports having found something.
Mortimer surveys the scene.

OOC: The DM is assuming Loryn shares the conversation with the others, so will not put it in a spoiler. Mole’s discovery is similarly being shared in the post.

Torrynashkabbeth asks Devin his opinion. The boy blushes a bit and looks around to make sure his father is out of earshot before answering softly, “I think it’s evil spirits.” He then goes on to explain, “The other night me and some others were heading out to the cliffs. [Torryn knows that this is a common hangout for teenagers wanting to escape adult supervision.] We suddenly came across a giant orange eyed bat walking on the ground. We started to chase it when it suddenly turned around and hissed at us. I looked down and it had turned my cloak blood red! At that, we all ran back as fast as we could. I showed my folks the cloak when I got home. They were going to burn it, but it changed back to its normal color before we got the fire started big enough. I won’t wear it though.” He looks questingly at the girl, looking for her reaction.

After some time searching, Mole stops and points out a single track at the base of the house on the side opposite the barn. The track is birdlike, with three toes ending in long talons. These tracks appear to have been left by something larger and heavier than a bird though. An attempt was made to wipe away the tracks, presumably by the attacker as it was fleeing, but this one was missed. Unfortunately, Mole is unable to find other tracks or a trail to follow.

It is quite obvious that the barn and house are close enough that were a creature to climb up the house, it could easily access the roof of the barn.

In the barn, Loryn spends some time in conversation with the sheep. To the others it sounds like an extended series of grunts and bleats, including what comes out of Loryn’s throat. He, however, despite the limitations of sheep intelligence, has learned the following through this conversation.

It was a single wolf, the sheep word for all predators. It had eyes that glow the color of the sky on a clear and sunny day. [The sheep were not nearly this poetic in their description, but that was the meaning that they eventually conveyed.] Loryn cannot be certain because sheep are not very good with numbers, but it sounds like the attacker may have had more than two eyes, but less than four. It did, in fact, walk like a man, which they admit is very odd for a wolf. The sheep also inform Loryn that they do not like the lady farmer’s little wolf and would like her to do a better job of keeping it away from their lambs.

Evred Vost (Tanner) -- HP 16 | AC 15/11/13 | CMD 18 | F+5/R+2/W+0
Friday July 30th, 2021 1:13:46 PM
"Devin, was the creature you saw an actual large bat walking on the ground, with wings and all, or was it shaped like a man but smaller and with the face of a bat?"

Manolo (Michael A) - HP 10/10 AC 17
Friday July 30th, 2021 10:15:50 PM
Manolo is puzzled by the reports.

"I guess we are not dealing with a human but perhaps a creature with some humanoid characteristics or something walking on 2 legs at the very least" he says.

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 9 AC:14
Saturday July 31st, 2021 8:03:13 AM
"Devin, that's ...amazing. Thank you so much for that information, but." She stopped and gave him a another glorious smile. "Could you indicate how tall this 'bat' thing was?" She held her own hand to the side and waist height and proceeded to move it up and down. "Oh and do you recall if it had more than 2 eyes? That might not be important, but the more information you can provide, the better it helps us."

She wondered whether it was a winged goblinoid or whether it was more like a bat wherein the arms had a membrane extending down the body to the legs. Even if she knew such details it didn't particularly help her. She had no clue as to what it was. The changing of the cloak's colour was probably significant. It would indicate that the creature had access to some magic. Likely her father would have a much clearer idea of what it was, but she was most certainly not going to ask him. He'd either take over the investigation or ban her from further enquiry, or both!

At least now they had more to go on than they had before. That the boys had felt brave enough to chase the 'bat' indicated that it hadn't been that large. Maybe it shifted from four legs to rear up and its hindmost like a bear.

Another thought was that perhaps it had followed Devin back to enact dome sort of revenge - particularly if the boys had thrown stones at it. She was inclined to discount that theory. It was a lot of trouble to go to.

Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 8/8 d20+9=18 ; d20+9=21 ; d20+9=28 ; d20+9=28 ; d20+9=24 ;
Saturday July 31st, 2021 11:45:44 AM
Ash ponders all the new info,and tries recalling some humanoid, three eyed,winged creature.

Knowledge nature 18
Knowledge Arcane 21
knowledge planes 28
knowledge dungeon 28
knowledge religion 24

Mole; (RichP) AC 18; HP 11; CMD 13
Saturday July 31st, 2021 9:37:00 PM
"The creature attacking the sheep doesn't fly." He says. "I found tracks next to the house. Something climbed the house and crossed into the barn. I don't recognize the tracks. So if we can put the bat-creature on hold, let's focus on what's killin' the animals."

Dang they get distracted easily. He thinks as he heads back towards the tracks.

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 9 AC:14
Sunday August 1st, 2021 4:52:58 AM
Mole made a very interesting and salient point.

"Oh." Piped Torryn. "What if it was a cloak and not wings. Some cloaks do look like wings." She said the last to Devin in support of his initial assertion and to reassure him that there'd be no blame for making such an understandable error.

Cloak-earing raised it above animal intelligence, but she was pretty sure it was more than an animal anyway: it had access to some magic.

Loryn Glitterfall; AC 13 HP 8 Dan K
Sunday August 1st, 2021 8:09:30 AM
Loren conveys what the sheep tell him, thanking the sheep and asking one final thing if there was more than 1 attacker. The gnome agrees with the dwarf and thinks the tracks are the next step

I need a 2 day sub…..Monday and Tuesday

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 9 AC:14 d20=8 ; d20=2 ; d20=7 ; d20=16 ; d20=20 ;
Monday August 2nd, 2021 5:59:19 AM
Ugh, tracking!
She hated tracking. her father had done his best to encourage her and understand the mysteries of the art, but it had never made any sense. What was the difference between one snapped twig and another? What made a slight depression in the ground an actual 'track' and not something created by happenstance? She'd never understood, but then she lacked her father's keen, trained eye. Torryn hoped that others present were more familiar with such things. If they were going to rely on her they'd be sorely disappointed. She consoled herself in the knowledge that you couldn't be good at everything and hey couldn't dance as well as she could. It wasn't much consolation. Dancing wasn't going to find the killer. Tracking likely was. Still, she refused to let that dampen her spirits. She'd always found that a winning smile got her a lot further than a frown. She skipped over to the window and peered around in what she hoped looked like a convincing 'tracking' manner.
She didn't see anything unusual. She sighed, but turned back to the others with a smile.
"Tracking then. best get to it, right?"

OOC: Perception 8+2=10. Ignore the other rolls. I hit the roll thing by accident - & wasted a perfectly good 20!

Hendrick's Farm (DM John)
Monday August 2nd, 2021 11:58:14 AM

Evred queries Devin.
Manolo comments on the creature that attacked the sheep.
Torrynashkabbeth adds to Evred’s question and speculates on the cloak changing color.
Ash thinks he recognizes the three-eyed creature. Note that there was no indication of wings Ash thinks the description matches a type of gremlin called a nuglub, a nasty creature noted for enjoying killing. It is a fey (knowledge nature) so probably has the typical fey resistance to normal weapons that can be overcome by using cold iron.
Mole clarifies what his investigations have revealed.
Loryn shares what he learns from the sheep.

Evred asks, “Devin, was the creature you saw an actual large bat walking on the ground, with wings and all, or was it shaped like a man but smaller and with the face of a bat?"

The teenager pauses at the question, obviously trying to recall his encounter. “Hmmm. Now that you mention it. I don’t recall any wings. Like you say, it was man-shaped, about this tall.” Devin puts his hand out about two feet above the ground in answer to Torryn’s question.

For all his talk, Sturm does not seem to be getting much work done, being too interested in the activities of his visitors.

All attempts to find more tracks of the nuglub prove fruitless. Other than the one missed track, the creature appeared quite effective at hiding its trail.

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 9 AC:14
Monday August 2nd, 2021 1:17:13 PM
"That's really impressive." Torryn complimented Ash. It seemed that they actually knew what they were searching for. Well, Ash did at least.

"If someone can....hmm...what I was thinking was - this Nuggy, maybe it only hid the tracks close to the scene of the crime. Maybe we could pick up the trail by ranging around the farm, likely in the direction from which it came would be best." She pointed towards the cliffs that Devin had said was where he and the other boys had encountered the creature. Perhaps it was a long shot. She really didn't fancy her own chances of finding any such clues, but would try regardless.

With regard to hurting the creature, she didn't have any cold wrought iron. She actually wasn't too sure precisely what 'could wrought iron' was, but felt certain she had none. Not that it was a concern for her. She could hurt the Nuggy. She had her own Fey magic to call upon. She'd rather not use it and certainly not in front of the townsfolk, but if it could stop the wicked attacks, she'd call upon her Fey Lightning.

Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 10/10
Monday August 2nd, 2021 3:31:27 PM
"a Nuglub" Ash says out loud, surprising himself. " I had to think about it, but it finally came to me."

Ash nods to Torryn in thanks. "Thats a good idea, the cliffs" he adds.

Manolo (Michael A) - HP 10/10 AC 17
Monday August 2nd, 2021 9:07:13 PM
"I never heard about this creature", Manolo says with confusion.
"You think we can or have a fighting chance against that....Nugloob", He says with hesitation mispronunciating the name incorrectly.

Evred Vost (Tanner) -- HP 16 | AC 15/11/13 | CMD 18 | F+5/R+2/W+0
Monday August 2nd, 2021 9:59:08 PM
"Hmm, I thought it sounded like a dark fey. We could swing by the blacksmith and pick up some cold iron, and I like the idea of ranging about to look for tracks." Evred rubs his thumb on the pommel of his lance. "I think we should pick up the cold iron, first. No sense in finding the creature without having the right tools on hand. We could pick it up and be back before nightfall."

Mole; (RichP) AC 18; HP 11; CMD 13 d20+7=10 ; d20+8=23 ;
Monday August 2nd, 2021 11:04:26 PM
"I don't know that creature either." He says. "Well done, lad." he says complimenting Ash. (Natural knowledge DC 10)

"Doubt they'd have any of that here. It's not very common a metal." Commenting on finding any cold iron in this village. "Ya have to dig pretty deep in the ground to find any." (profession - mining DC 23)

"Let's set up here tonight and make our presence obvious to deter the thing from coming. Then in the morning, we do a search of the area the boy mentioned. Once we find it's lair, we can make a proper plan."

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 9 AC:14
Tuesday August 3rd, 2021 4:51:43 AM
Cold wrought iron. Wasn't that just ordinary iron, but fashioned somehow differently? She was no smith so discovering that it was a unique metal in its own right was something new. If it was that, then the local smith certainly wouldn't have any. If it was ordinary iron that was forged cold - well, that sounded like a LOT of work - and for what? Again, she was sceptical of the smith having much if any of that. Still, if you didn't ask, you didn't get.

"I doubt the smith will have much, if anything, but there's no harm in asking. It's not like it's that far to go." She offered. "We could likely get back and still have time to get to the cliffs for a look-see. If we don't find anything I suppose we could mount a guard of sorts here - no point in losing more sheep. Poor things."

Blackhammer Smithy (DM John)
Tuesday August 3rd, 2021 1:03:06 PM

Torrynashkabbeth suggests searching the cliffs where Devin saw the “bat”. She also wonders about cold iron and wonders if the town smith, Daedra Blackhammer, might have any.
Ash shares what he remembers about Nuglubs and supports going to the cliffs.
Manolo is unfamiliar with Nugloobs and worries about their ability to defeat one.
Evred suggests going to the smith before seeking out the creature.
Mole compliments Ash’s knowledge and wonders if cold iron is available. Always being one to keep up with mineral things, he recalls that his fellow dwarf, Daedra does in fact have some cold iron in her stock. He proposes spending the night at the Hendricks to discourage another visit, then doing a search in the morning.

The DM is making some assumptions about what the group decides. Note that it is late morning when the party heads to Daedra’s. It is about a one hour walk one way to the cliffs.

Learning that the teenage Devin claims to have encountered a bat-faced tiny humanoid near the cliffs of Dragon Bay, the hunters decide to explore the cliffs. Thinking that the creature that attacked the sheep may be a fey and, given that it is not yet midday and the cliffs are only about an hour’s walk away, they decide that they have time to check with the local blacksmith, Daedra Blackhammer, about obtaining some cold iron first.

As they approach Daedra’s Smithy, those who have been in Windhorn any time at all are a bit surprised to realize they have not heard the tone of Daedra’s hammer this morning. Except for when she pauses for sharpening, tending to the forge, or talking to customers, the ring of steel on steel is a near constant sound in Windhorn’s background, but this morning there has been no such ring at any time. As the party approaches, they note that the sinewy dwarf is at her charcoal ovens, there contents spread out on the ground. Her coal-smudged hands are firmly on her hips as she frowns at the pile of water soaked, only slightly charred wood.

Hearing the group, she turns around, unhappiness and frustration clearly registering on the sturdy features of her face. She lifts her brows in inquiry at their approach.

Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.) - HP: 8/8. AC:13
Tuesday August 3rd, 2021 1:55:32 PM
Upon hearing more testimony, Mortimer isn't sure if he is pleased with the fact this creature isn't a bird with fangs. That would mean the voices are telling him nonsense.

'This madness is probably just brought on by an overactive imagination,' he thinks, trying to reassure himself. 'From a bit of rotten potato or a bad night's sleep.' Drinking from the 'All Sorts' barrel at the pub is most certainly a factor. Of course, all this started with the encounter with a creepy, old man he found squatting in a crypt he was attempting to rob. 'Who would want to live inside an old crypt,' he questions himself? He then recalls he too lives next door to a cemetery. "Brilliant," he says sarcastically.

Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 10/10
Tuesday August 3rd, 2021 3:19:21 PM
Ash's brows arch at the obvious nuisance of the wet wood.

" A dwarven smithy with no ability to get a fire going.... it would have been kinder to shave her beard. " the wizard says to the group as they approach.

"Perhape our creature paid a visit first to ensure no weapons are available. "

Manolo (Michael A) - HP 10/10 AC 17
Tuesday August 3rd, 2021 7:49:12 PM
"Hello", Manolo says loudly to Daedra.
He takes a quick look at at the blacksmith workplace, seeing the signs of water and face expressions he asks "What...happened ?", with a confused tone.

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 9 AC:14
Tuesday August 3rd, 2021 8:02:35 PM
Asking "What happened" seemed a perfectly good start to Torryn. She hadn't expected to find any "cold wrought iron" and the wet wood seemed to confirm her expectation.

"Oops" She offered quietly from the back. It really wasn't much of a contribution, but she couldn't think of anything better to say.

Evred Vost (Tanner) -- HP 16 | AC 15/11/13 | CMD 18 | F+5/R+2/W+0
Tuesday August 3rd, 2021 11:59:26 PM
Evred looks confused. "What happened?"

Mole; (RichP) AC 18; HP 11; CMD 13 d20+8=23 ;
Wednesday August 4th, 2021 9:49:00 AM
Coming to the smithy, Mole sees the unthinkable. The contents of the forge scattered over the ground and the forge sitting cold. He couldn't remember a time when the forges at home were not burning.

I was obvious to Mole that this was not of her doing. (Perception DC 23)

Instead of asking the same question asked by the others, Mole steps up to the forge area and begins to look at the forge area for signs of sabotage. " Allow me to assist you in cleaning up." While cleaning up, he examines the area for signs. He suspects that there may be a connection between the situation at the farm and the smithy.

Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.) - HP: 8/8. AC:13 d20=6 ;
Wednesday August 4th, 2021 11:20:01 AM
Looking at all the soaked firewood, his only response is, "Well ... that defeats the purpose, it does!" Mortimer is about to ask the obvious question before someone else beats him to it. He closes his mouth in mid utterance and retracts his pointing finger.

Better one of them to get a hammer across the head for pestering the dwarf lady, he thinks.

He looks around for such conveyances for water ... like a bucket or the like. (Perception: 6)

Blackhammer Smithy (DM John)
Wednesday August 4th, 2021 12:53:30 PM

Mortimer attempts to explain away Devin’s tale. At the smithy, when he sees what happened at the forge.
Ash, at the smith’s, speculates that the fey they killed soaked the coal.
Manalo, Torryn and Evred collectively ask, “What happened?”
Mole takes a look around the smithy while the others query Daedra.

Daedra answers, obviously using the opportunity to work things out herself, “I loaded the oven a couple of days ago and ignited it like I always do. It steamed quite properly by evening so I sealed it up to let it cool. This morning I came to inspect the charcoal and I found this when I opened it up. I do not know how it got wet. The roof is good. It hasn’t rained. The outside of the oven is dry and,” she pauses for emphasis, “the door was still sealed when I got here.”

A quick inspection confirms what she has said. Everything except where Daedra emptied the wet contents of the oven is dry. The plaster of the seal used to cover the door and prevent air from entering still lies about the ground in pieces. Those bits not touching the former contents of the oven are also dry. There are no signs of any sources of water other than the bucket the smith keeps for fire control, but that one is inside where it is normally kept. Nothing found sheds any light on how the inside of a sealed oven got soaked.

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 9 AC:14
Wednesday August 4th, 2021 1:12:40 PM
'Hmpfh!' Thinks Torryn. To her it was no mystery at all. A magical creature that had the ability to alter a cloak's colour likely also had the ability to conjure water. It wouldn't be a lot, but then it didn't need to be.

"Well, it's definitely the Nuggy." She said without any trace of doubt, but didn't elaborate on why she was so certain.

"Um, I don't suppose that you have any Cold Wrought iron stuff laying around, do you?" She asked as innocently as she could.

Evred Vost (Tanner) -- HP 16 | AC 15/11/13 | CMD 18 | F+5/R+2/W+0
Wednesday August 4th, 2021 8:06:00 PM
"Smith Daedra, it looks like the same pest that has been mauling livestock has been playing tricks here in town. Which is concerning. The pest is getting braver. We are pretty certain it is a dark fey. Do you have any cold iron? Even if it is just an ingot, we could use it to bash in it's head."

Manolo (Michael A) - HP 10/10 AC 17
Wednesday August 4th, 2021 10:18:37 PM
Manolo, a little bit embarrassed, doesn't speak anymore for the moment and just listens at the moment.

Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 10/10
Thursday August 5th, 2021 9:23:13 AM
Ash puts his thumb and pointer finger on his chin as he stares at the forge. He waves his hand and casts detect magic near the forge.

Loryn Glitterfall; AC 13 HP 8 Dan K
Thursday August 5th, 2021 9:26:39 AM
The gnome stays quiet. He didn't think the group of 'who are you guys' was getting any free cold iron weapons anyway and he knew he certainly did not have the gold for such things. He thought likely it was not boldness that drove the dark fey here but smarts. It had to be fairly new to the area and it was setting up shop. What appalled Loryn was the cliffs seemed like the next direction they would be going. cliffs were high and high meant falling could happen and that almost always ended with the ground catching you. The dizzying thought ladder had the gnome worked up in no time and he needed to step back a few paces and catch his breath

"We're heading to the cliffs then I suppose." He says a bit to no one and a bit down

Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.) - HP: 8/8. AC:13
Thursday August 5th, 2021 10:51:41 AM
Mortimer is feeling a little out of place. He's never had any encounters with fey, other than a gnome or two. When it came to magic, he knew little to nothing about it ... other than the strange happenings he's been experiencing since he found his medallion.

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 9 AC:14 d20=3 ;
Thursday August 5th, 2021 11:45:43 AM
"Yes." Replied Torryn excitedly. The tough of heading to the cliffs excited her. Unlike Loryn, she'd no thoughts at all about falling. Nor did she notice the gnome's worry or distraction (Sense Motive: 3+1=4.) The adventure was beginning in earnest. She might have been a bit more worried if she knew what a Nuggy was. As it was, she felt confident her own Fey abilities would be sufficient to handle the creature.

Blackhammer Smithy (DM John)
Thursday August 5th, 2021 11:56:50 AM

Torrynashkabbeth thinks the explanation is obvious and says so. She asks about cold iron.
Evred explains further and also asks about iron.
Manolo remains silent this time.
Ash casts detect magic and examines the area around the forge. He notices a few inside and suspects that the smith possesses some magical items. He detects nothing around the charcoal oven or the area around it.
Loryn silently thinks that free cold iron handouts are unlikely and comments that it’s time to head to the cliffs.
Mortimer is a bit uncomfortable with all this talk of fey and strange magic.

Daedra frowns as Evred explains their suspicions. “Speculation,” she finally says in response. In the blunt way of dwarves she continues, “I do have some bar stock of the deep iron, but I’m not risking it to a bunch of youngsters wanting to make a name for themselves. Unless, of course, you’re willing to commission the work.... And then there’s the issue with my charcoal,” she adds with a meaningful look at the sodden mess before them. “I’m not doing much forge work until I can get a reliable fire going again.”

The group suspects that they are unlikely to get much aid from Daedra, at least for now.

As they talk to the smith, they are close enough to the Half Ogre to notice a flurry of activity. Two days until the big party and preparations are visibly in full swing.

Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 10/10
Thursday August 5th, 2021 1:11:16 PM
Finger still on his chin,and his finger tapping his lips as he is deep in thought.

Finally he nods to Loryn. "Yeah,that seems the most logical next step."

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 9 AC:14
Thursday August 5th, 2021 4:18:22 PM
Torryn notices the activity and smiles. There'll be dancing soon. Turning back she tried to pay attention to the dwarf's grumping drone, but wasn't really interested enough to try particularly hard.

"I'll wait outside." She volunteers. With a smile that she felt would ewxcuse her from any discussion, she skipped outside to wait for the rest. They had time enough to head to the cliffs, but in the interim she could watch the preparations unfold.

Mole; (RichP) AC 18; HP 11; CMD 13
Thursday August 5th, 2021 10:18:11 PM
Mole wasn't surprised by the smiths reaction, but he a tad bit annoyed she infer he was asking for a handout. "Listen here," He says raising his voice. "You saying Grund Fyrbend is askin fer a handout? You ain't got no idea if I got coin or not and you brush me off like a hairless!" You can tell he wants to go down a much darker and dangerous line of insults, but stops turns and says. "Let's get back to the farm."

First he stops in the Half-Ogre and orders two drinks and sits down to drink them.

Manolo (Michael A) - HP 10/10 AC 17
Friday August 6th, 2021 6:18:23 AM
Manolo will go with the group wherever they decide to go.

Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.) - HP: 8/8. AC:13
Friday August 6th, 2021 8:50:32 AM
'Oh boy, here comes the hammer,' he thinks as he prepares to duck.

After hearing Mole's remarks, Mortimer says with a grin, "Well ... it's obvious I haven't got two coppers to rub together. I'd be doing this for a sandwich, I will."

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 9 AC:14
Friday August 6th, 2021 10:14:23 AM
Torryn escaped the ensuing drama in the smithy. There were more important things to think about: like what to look for at the cliffs and which dances would be best to showcase her talents. Dancing was important. That thought did elicit some feelings of guilt. Dancing hadn't helped that poor ewe. She didn't want to see any further such recurrences, so forced thoughts of dancing to the back f her mind. She then looked around to see what the others were doing. Mole had entered the in and hadn't returned. That wasn't helpful. If this was no time for dancing, it was certainly no time for drinking, surely.

[Link href="https://docs.google.com/document/d/1XTBGUllt8XNEcx4AeK6cYOTxZWLk3u2_AlpXzVxGVpw/edit"]Torrynashkabbeth/link] (Nick K) HP: 9 AC:14
Friday August 6th, 2021 12:28:06 PM
OOC: Testing the Character sheet link.

[Link href=https://docs.google.com/document/d/1XTBGUllt8XNEcx4AeK6cYOTxZWLk3u2_AlpXzVxGVpw/edit]Torrynashkabbeth/link] (Nick K) HP: 9 AC:14
Friday August 6th, 2021 12:28:56 PM
OOC: Trying again.

Loryn Glitterfall; AC 13 HP 8 Dan K d20+4=10 ;
Friday August 6th, 2021 12:36:35 PM
Loryn chuckles at the exchange between Mole and Daedra. Dwarves, always so serious. Loryn steps forward and offers what he hopes is at least some assistance to the smithy. "It might not get you all the way back, but I think I can help with your wet wood problem." With that, he smiles and casts a spell at the wood
Prestidigitation to dry the wood
"It will last about an hour, but with your talents, I'm sure as the moisture comes back, it will be no match for your forge."

The gnome provides another smile, [Diplomacy 10] and a nod and turns to follow Mole

He arches an eyebrow as he notes the destination, "Um, ok. I don't think adjusting your sense of balance to be the best course of action before we go stand by ledges Mole."

The gnome locates the direction to the cliffs and starts walking. the other could and would catch up to him without even trying in short order. A head start seemed a prudent move

Spells per Day
1/day—dancing lights, ghost sound, prestidigitation (x), speak with animals (x)
3/1

Evred Vost (Tanner) -- HP 16 | AC 15/11/13 | CMD 18 | F+5/R+2/W+0
Friday August 6th, 2021 2:39:25 PM
Evred clears his throat to call attention. "Daedra, we were just asking to borrow the cold iron. We have good reasons to think it is a fey critter, and they are weak to cold iron. This fey critter has been mauling livestock, and now this mischief with your forge, we think it will keep stirring trouble in the village. If we could borrow it, you would be helping out everyone and getting even for your forge, and we would return it. If we lose it, we would pay for it. What do you say?"

Evred Vost (Tanner) -- HP 16 | AC 15/11/13 | CMD 18 | F+5/R+2/W+0
Friday August 6th, 2021 2:42:09 PM
"And don't worry about forging anything. An ingot nailed to a club should be enough to bludgeon the critter."

Mole; (RichP) AC 18; HP 11; CMD 13
Saturday August 7th, 2021 9:58:16 AM
ooc: Nick looks like you're missing the "[" for [/link].

To the Sea (DM John)
Saturday August 7th, 2021 10:27:32 AM

Ash agrees with Loryn about going to the cliffs.
Torrynashkabbeth, distracted by the party preparations, waits outside for the others to head to the cliffs.
Mole is annoyed by Daedra’s bluntness and assumption about their ability to pay.
Manolo is willing to go wherever the others decide.
Mortimer reacts to the exchange between Mole and Daedra.
Loryn casts prestidigitation to dry the wood. He then leads the way to the cliffs.
Evred attempts to reframe the request for cold iron.

Daedra turns to Mole to look at him after his reply, her face completely passive and expressionless. Realizing what Loryn is doing, she looks skeptically at the wood. Picking up and testing it, with the tip of her tongue, no less, she nods her gratitude to the gnome as she starts to inspect the remaining charcoal as it is dried.

At Evred’s request, Daedra stands up, interrupting her inspection of the drying coal. “An official request of a member of the Windguard to borrow materials for use in defense of the community. Of course, I will comply.” She quickly enters her smithy, reemerging with a well-crafted warhammer in her left hand. Extending it out, the group can see that its blunt head is formed of dull colored iron. “Given the number of witnesses,” she pauses to extend her gaze to each person there, “I will forgo the formality of a receipt and accept your promise to return it after this creature is defeated or determined to not be fey.”

That resolved, the group heads to the northeast toward the cliffs along the coast, led by its slowest traveling member. Such a trip takes about an hour. Mostly plain covered in tall grass capable of withstanding the salt spray spreading in from the bay, there is not much to break up the terrain. Rabbit and other small game, rush for cover at the intrusion, but little other inhabitants are seen on the ground. The sky, however, is dotted with seabirds riding the thermals. The smell of the sea gets stronger as the coast is approached, the crash of water on stone audible long before it can be seen.

Once at the coast, the land drops dramatically, wave and wind having beaten against the shore for ages. The water lashes against rock about sixty feet below the top of the cliffs. Mostly sheer, few people take the trouble to find a way to the tumultuous shore below. This bleak landscape extends either direction as far as the eye can see. Without anything specific to look for, finding anything here would be improbable if not outright impossible.

Mixed in with sounds of the crashing surf below and the constant cries of waterfowl above, you hear a mournful melody, a flute song sorrowful yet beautiful coming from somewhere on the coast to the left of the group as they face the sea.

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 9 AC:14 d20=18 ;
Saturday August 7th, 2021 11:29:47 AM
"Oh, music." Says Torryn gleefully. "I could dance to that." Coming from anyone else the assertion would seem implausible at best, but Torryn could dance to slow music as well as she could to fast. She stepped back from the cliffs and made a slow pirouette, her arms gentle extended as they moved languidly in perfect harmony with the faintly heard music.

[Perform: dance 18+6=24]

Two things were apparent to those that saw her dance: one, she loved it; two, she was undoubtedly skilled at too.

Torryn let her feet lead her to the music.

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 9 AC:14
Saturday August 7th, 2021 11:31:41 AM

OOC: TO NICK. This should work now. It should autofill on your next post--DM John.
TO Rich. Haven your text right next to it in your post was very helpful. Thank you.

Mole; (RichP) AC 18; HP 11; CMD 13
Saturday August 7th, 2021 11:40:28 AM
[ link href="https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1aNFpVdUUZau2aqUN3UEO7KKUUOn6a2tPqEDjsUGYAdo/edit?usp=sharing"]Mole[/link]; (RichP) AC 18; HP 11; CMD 13

Here's my link. I added a space in the front so you can see it.

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 9 AC:14
Saturday August 7th, 2021 8:00:33 PM
OOC: Thanks Guys.
John has sorted it for me; so now you can all see just how delightful Torryn is :)

Fenfaran - (Iain) AC:18 - HP:11/11 d20+6=10 ;
Sunday August 8th, 2021 7:59:14 AM
The boy sits on a spur,
dangling feet over a cliff.
Sea spray glistens on fur,
as he ruffles a haunting ri...
Wait fur? Antlers?
Ok so maybe not boy ~ 90% boy / 10% not??!

The boy/beastfolk(?) watches with expressive eyes as you approach and continues playing. Then tilts his head and says (in Sylvan): Highlight to display spoiler: {"Friend or foes? Hoping friends, there's been more than enough flobberwaffle in my life over the last few moons! I am Fenfaran"}

An intro to Fenfaran.

[OOC Namaste. I am conscious of taking up much time and so to not interrupt the flow I will anticipate some of your answers if I may? Fenfaran is capable of speaking common, he has simply never conversed in it. If anyone understands him or aids him he will learn swiftly. Within a short period he is able to grasp basics, which can be honed as the party travels].

He lives in an overhang of limestone strata with an alcove, vines and grasses shield the shelter from the salt spray, but moving them aside reveals a beautiful view of the bay. A fur cloak forms a bed and a collection of fruits lay beside. Patting his chest he says "Fenfaran" and offers the fruit around, with some help he is able to answer some questions.

~ Have you seen anything strange lately?
He nods 'no' and shrugs.

~ Do you know anything about dark fey or fey like creatures?
He looks very uncomfortable (perhaps unsure if he is one), but he has roamed the cliffs and will confirm there is nothing odd here out of the ordinary.

~ Tell me about you:
Shrugs "Lived here all life". He points to 7 lines scraped in the limestone (if drilled down you soon discover he means DAYS)!

~ He has never heard of Beastfolk and shrugs. He just "Wake up here".

Fenfaran seems to be coping well on his own, he's clean, well fed and even happy, but meeting the party has awoken something within and he seems eager.
"Fenfaran follow"?

He points at Torryn "you move like wind". It didn't matter what anyone said, she would always be wind dancer.

Looks like he intends following the party regardless. He gathers his flute, pockets some berries and puts on the fur cloak. Taking a deep breath and one last look around the cave Fenfaran sets off on an adventure ~ following the first people he ever met and wondering what the tingle in his belly was...

Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 10/10
Sunday August 8th, 2021 10:06:57 AM
Ash hears the music and torryn begins dancing. The skinny, tall mage just ponders if this is some sort of trap, leading them to the melody while the fey kills them.

Mole; (RichP) AC 18; HP 11; CMD 13 d20+8=22 ;
Sunday August 8th, 2021 10:13:53 AM
Another person whisked away to this region by the gods. Honestly, Mole is not happy with the realization.

Pushing his way through the others to the young man, Mole stands before him. "So lad, I got something I want ya to think about. Before you showed up here did you hear any voices, have any dreams, see anything strange?" He turns at the others. "Same question goes to all of you."

"Anyway, I want ya ta think about it." He says before being drawn to the cave. He spends time going over each inch. When the other set to leave, his response is "I'll catch up."

Profession Mining DC 22 - checking for safety, ability to expand, or possible minerals in the cave.

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 9 AC:14
Sunday August 8th, 2021 5:50:27 PM
Torryn stopped dancing when the music ceased. At Fenfaran's inroduction she made a small, elegant curtsy and named herself as "Torryn". With a last swift pirouette, she dropped low and plucked a berry up, which she duly ate.

"You play beautifully." she told him. Although Torryn considered herself Fey-blooded and it was certainly something that her father teased her mother about, she understood not a word of Sylvan. Her father had attempted to teach her Elven and she could get by in that tongue, albeit rather haltingly. It wasn't something she was ever going to boast about.

Of more concern was Fenfaran's lack of knowledge of the Nubby. (She really couldn't recall it's actual name.) Still, there was light enough yet to search the area hereabouts for clues. One thing was for certain, the Nubby hadn't been in the cave. Maybe it feared Fey Deer Boys?

Evred Vost (Tanner) -- HP 16 | AC 15/11/13 | CMD 18 | F+5/R+2/W+0
Sunday August 8th, 2021 6:57:29 PM
(OOC: Assuming that translation into Common is available...)

The centaur in studded leather armor and carrying a lance halts warily at the sight of the deer-boy. "I heard rumors about animals suddenly changing, walking on two legs, and talking. One of the merchants coming through town called them 'beastfolk.' The timing is... odd, if this isn't our trickster." Evred considers the situation for a moment, then brings his lance to his shoulder. "But I guess he isn't threatening anyone."

He listens to the answers provided by the beastfolk. "So, Fenfaran, nice to meet you. Quick question, if you don't mind... you've been alive for seven days, where did you get the clothes and the flute? And would any of the nearby farms be missing some children's clothes or a flute? Just curious."

Manolo (Michael A) - HP 10/10 AC 17
Sunday August 8th, 2021 7:22:12 PM
Manolo is shocked by their recent addition to the party.
Fenfaran it was, he thinks to himself.
He make a motion to his heart and introduces himself by saying his name.
Waiting for for introduction.
He is quite happy to hear the music.

Evred Vost (Tanner) -- HP 16 | AC 15/11/13 | CMD 18 | F+5/R+2/W+0
Sunday August 8th, 2021 8:46:49 PM
(Before leaving the smithy, Evred thanks Daedra for her gracious help in their current task.)

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 9 AC:14
Monday August 9th, 2021 6:19:59 AM
Torryn had been about to head out of the cave and look for Nubby clues, but Evred's questions gave her pause. Why hadn't she thought of that? They were such incisive questions. She sighed gently. That was just the sort of thing her father would have asked and expected her to think of. But she hadn't. Again. No wonder he was so intent on her learning from Agratha. It wasn't something that appealed to Torryn, but she did see some merit to it. Agratha's lessons were far from easy.

She pulled her attention away from her musings and back to the present. If Fenny was a transformed deer, maybe whatever transformed him created the clothes and pipes too. Maybe, but whoever heard of a deer that played the pipes? Fawns played pipes, didn't they? She looked down. Fenfaran didn't have cloven feet. He wasn't a fawn. That almost elicited another sigh. She really wasn't contributing much to proceedings. Oh well, at least they had Evred and Mole. They seemed possessed of sharp wits. Likely everyone else exceeded herself in reasoning and knowledge, but that thought just made her smile. The pressure was off. At least, that was how it felt to her.

Loryn Glitterfall; AC 13 HP 8 Dan K
Monday August 9th, 2021 8:51:24 AM
Loryn acknowledges the acceptance of the cold iron hammer and makes sure it finds its way to Evred. The centaur seemed the only person even closely trained in martial arts of the entire group

At the Cliffs, the gnome follows with the others towards the music. His people had experience in enchanting and illusions, this did not feel like either. Loryn takes in the beastfolk, he had never met one, but with the awakening of the Fey King so many years ago, he had heard of such through tales of travelling bards.

The gnome wrinkles his brow and rubs his large nose at Mole's question. "What are you on about. Surely you of all of us, have heard the stories of the beast folk after the Fey Kings return. Only thing drawing me here was the road from Bray, Mole."

Lorryn looks about and thinks the cliffs are going to be a dead end, something he was quite happy with. Cant fall from the cliff if your not poking about the top. "I'm heading back. Short legs and all, you'll probably catch up in no time."

Fenfaran - (Iain) AC:18 - HP:11/11
Monday August 9th, 2021 10:48:27 AM
When Manolo introduces himself Fenfaran does the same.

To Torry (maybe he senses something fey about her or maybe it's just because she showed him kindness?) "Fen play whenever lady wind dancer want". Every time Torrynashkabbeth looks at him he smiles a big happy smile back.

He watches Ash curiously (who keeps his distance).

Evred at first seemed cautious, then only wanted to know if he was a thief ~ he doesn't reply. Maybe he's not 100% sure of what's being asked ~ or maybe he doesn't feel the need to defend himself?

When Mole pushes his own people out of the way to get to him, Fenfaran backs away alarmed and raises an arm to deflect any blows, he looks terrified!!! Then slowly relaxes when the blows don't come and the dwarf speaks, but there are too many new words and it's all too fast, he frowns and looks confused. Then the dwarf directs the question at everyone else and he seems relieved.

As they leave the cave and Mole stays behind he says to Loryn [OOC whom I believe speaks Sylvan and I am assuming is translating ~ if incorrect then please disregard my opening message and feel free to carry on searching the bay for a month or two] ;-) in Sylvan: Highlight to display spoiler: {"Would you please tell centaur-man I did not steal anything, I have had them all my long life. All 7 moons! Why does the dwarf want my home? Does he not have his own cave? What are…} "...dreams"? The last word is in common and clearly a question. (Fen looked proud around the 20th word).

Not what he expected, but since it was his first ever adventure he decides this must be one of those tests the heroes have mid adventure. The darkest hour. When all is lost. He puffs his chest out and decides to follow till he finds a more friendly bunch, maybe they will lead him to people that don't ignore, accuse or come at him like they mean to hit him. He shrugs. Well adventures aren't meant to be easy but he's survived and doing well so far (he tells himself). It's the furthest he's been from home and the most souls he'd met at once (even if they weren't as friendly as the other souls he'd met). As if seeking reassurance his hand feels a shape within a pocket ~ a lone, tattered, soggy, child's book he'd found on the beach one day. The pictures showed adventurers who seemed as old and powerful as time. The faded drawings hinted at some of their stories and although he couldn't read the words yet ~ he feels he's got this adventuring so far (which is probably only a few hundred meters from his cave).

He was more than a little scared and something else? But still didn't have the vocabulary to label it.

Return to Windhorn (DM John)
Monday August 9th, 2021 1:06:04 PM

Fenfaran greets his visitors and answers their questions and decides to join them.
Ash is wary.
Mole questions the newcomer as well as everyone else about experiencing anything strange. He then examines the cave. He determines it to be a natural gap between strata, barely deep enough to provide shelter and quite stable without any indication of anything valuable being present.
Torrynashkabbeth dances toward the music and greets the newcomer, complimenting his music.
Evred shares what he heard of beastfolk to the others and questions Fenfaren about the source of his belongings.
Manolo is pleased by the music and introduces himself to its maker.
Loryn accepts the hammer, giving it to Evred. After deciding nothing much else is at the cliffs he starts heading back to town.
Mortimer

Determining that there is nothing other than someone to join up with them to be found at the cliffs and being prodded by Loryn’s lead, the group returns back to the hamlet. After the walk to the cliffs, then some time spent searching while there, and with the time taken to return, the sun is approaching the horizon by the time they return. Smoke from cook fires scents the evening breeze. Among the sound of others tending to their business, Daedra’s hammer rings out, apparently making use of the newly dried charcoal.

Minerva acknowledges the arrival of her tenants when they return. “Back in time for supper, I see,” is the extent of her greeting. She begins to return her attention to the large pot simmering in the kitchen when she notices Fenfaren, “Blood in the Red Hills, are you needing a room, too? If so, I happen to have one available and I have a bed just your size, provided someone will go get it from the storage room.” This last is accompanied by a gesture to the room indicated.

Arrangements are as for the others. Accommodations include room and board, with the latter consisting of breakfast and supper in the common room with a take away lunch of bread, cheese, and dried meat available during the day. Anyone who is late for a meal misses it. Minerva’s cooking is of a quality that makes one reluctant to miss any opportunity to enjoy it. Her culinary reputation is such that other townsfolk will sit at her table when they can manage to obtain an invitation.

“Oh,” she adds as the thought occurs to her, “Pull out another chair for supper while you’re at it." She gestures to Fenfaren with her spoon, "There are several his size in there.”

Unless anyone wishes to do anything before the big party scheduled for the day after next, we will resume our narration at the start of the celebration.

Loryn Glitterfall; AC 13 HP 8 Dan K d20+6=11 ;
Monday August 9th, 2021 1:53:16 PM
OOC apologies. i forgot I knew Sylvan. lol my first gnome

Before turning off, Loryn steps up and extends his right hand and replies in Sylvan "A tradition of greeting among the big folk." His eyes and head gesture towards the others. "I am Lorryn Glitterfall, gnome and sorcerer.." Inclining his head to Mole, "Don't be put off by Mole. Dwarf tend to be far too serious for their own good and we heard tell of a foul creature that might be out this way and if too serious, dwarf are even more thorough. He cannot help being what he is, as any us. Come, walk with me and we'll head back and get some food."

"Minerva, how can you even feign surprise?" the gnome greets her upon returning. "This is Fenferan, He's a delight." Loryn will stick with Fen and work to get the big folk to help get the room squared away.

Gathering a sample of everything to eat, but not too much of any one thing, Loryn takes out his book and spice set and starts to tinker. Today however, his mind wasn't terribly focused [Prof Cook 11] Of Course Minerva was exceedingly good at what she did, that was why he was here, or at least one of the reasons that first brought him

So much going on and as the others settled in at the table, "So we came away empty on the whachmacallit, but we found a friend and eliminated a location. So not too shabby eh? Big to do tomorrow and if I were a mischevious prankster, I would be all over doing something, likely a few things. As I give us a glance, am I correct in that Evred is the only martially trained member of our group? Good, means the rest of us should be able to go after the fey pretty direct and stay close Evred and I can enchant that hammer for a time as well"

"Oh and everyone give a smile and wave to Fenfaran."

Spells per Day
1/day—dancing lights, ghost sound, prestidigitation (x), speak with animals (x)
4/1

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 9 AC:14
Monday August 9th, 2021 3:44:57 PM
Moving furniture did not sit comfortably within Torryn's field of expertise. She left that to the others. She was however, perfectly happy to sweep up after the meal, collect dishes, wash and store them away. Those activities were simple enough and allowed her mind to wander - something at which it was exceedingly adept. Her thoughts darted in their typical mercurial fashion between Nubby and the festivities.

She'd prefer to catch the creature before the festivities, but that seemed unlikely. If Fey didn't want to be found, it was extremely difficult to find them. That then begged the question: how should she do her hair? True, for most people that leap in thought processes was unusual, but for Torryn it was commonplace.

Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 10/10
Monday August 9th, 2021 8:46:15 PM
"well met Fenfaran" Ash says as he gives a slight nod. " sorry, to seem stand offish... I tend to forget when I am around people and get to far into my own thoughts. Take no offense please."

If no one else offers, Ash will grab the bed.

For dinner, he scoops up some of the delicious food, and sits with the others. he tends to stare into his bowl while he eats, deep in thought about this fey creature.

Manolo (Michael A) - HP 10/10 AC 17
Monday August 9th, 2021 9:31:02 PM
Manolo eats all the good food and doesn't say much.
He will proceed to go and sleep.
There was a party tomorrow, it was better to prepare mentally and physically for the celebration.

Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.) - HP: 8/8. AC:13 d20+4=7 ;
Monday August 9th, 2021 10:46:04 PM
During introductions at the cliffs, Margrave sits back and offers only a nonchalant wave. He's never seen deer-boys before. He doesn't know what to make of him. However he knows the expression on his face well. He's seen it many times before with young strays living on the streets for the very first time. It's same expression he also wore after he ran away from the orphanage. The first few weeks on the streets were terrifying. Even for a seasoned pro, like himself, the fear never really goes away. He knows the very last thing this deer-boy wants is to be crowded by a bunch of strangers ... and this bunch is stranger than most.

Back at the inn, Mortimer's stomach is growling even louder than before. Not being a tenant, he offers Minerva a small pouch of copper pieces for a bowl of her "heaven scent stew." "One whiff of your divine stew and I floated here on angel's wings, I did," he says with all the charm he can muster. (Diplomacy: 7) Of course, he's had better days.

If she accepts his coppers, he joins the others at the dinner table. He quietly discards the money pouch, have no need for it anymore ... the previous owner made the mistake of taking a nap under a shade tree.

After enjoying dinner with his new stranger friends (if he was allowed a bowl of stew or not), he will supplement his meal with a piece of hardtack biscuit from his pack. "Normally these things are flavorless and hard as rocks. They're absolute rubbish, but I learned that if I think good a hard, they soften up a touch and become a bit salty to taste. Don't know how, but it works."

As he gets up to retire for the night, "Sweet dreams all." Before leaving, he decides to introduce himself to the deer boy. "Welcome to Windhorn Hamlet, Fenfaran. The name is Mortimer Margrave," he says with a smile. "The local gravedigger, I am. I'm off to my humble lodgings. See everyone in the morning."

Mole; (RichP) AC 18; HP 11; CMD 13
Monday August 9th, 2021 11:14:15 PM
On the walk back, Mole trudges along behind. At the inn, Mole sits with the others. Eating dinner, he introduces himself properly.

"Sorry fer scaring you, lad." He says to Fenfaran. "I'm Grund Frybend, but call be Mole."

Evred Vost (Tanner) -- HP 16 | AC 15/11/13 | CMD 18 | F+5/R+2/W+0
Monday August 9th, 2021 11:57:15 PM
Evred takes a spot at the table, settling on a low couch meant to hold the weight of a taur in a resting position. "No hard feelings, Fen." He gestures with a spoon toward the beastfolk. "Someone was going to ask you those questions sooner or later, and its likely best it wasn't someone with a pitchfork." He digs into his plate with gusto, speaking out of the side of his mouth with the practiced ease of a guardsman. "I'm happy to carry the hammer. I only hope we can actually use it. I would hate for this fey critter to spook and run off, only to come back later. When we find it, we need to resolve it quickly so it doesn't scamper away."

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 9 AC:14
Tuesday August 10th, 2021 7:51:10 AM
"Don't worry, Fenny." Torryn told the deer boy. "Windhorn is full of good people. No one will be trying to harm you. You can dance with me if you like." She concluded with a smile. her plan though was hardly to have one dance and one dance partner. there'd be reels and jigs, maybe a polka, but most of it would likely involve a simple barn dance. It was all good to her. She prided herself on making even the simplest steps look elegant and enchanting. That was the good news. The bad news was - could she carry a weapon? Undoubtedly some would carry weapons, but dancing with a spear? Well, it just wasn't that sort of dance. She decided that she'd have to leave her spear behind and simply rely on a dagger. Or! Or maybe she could take it and one of their number could hold it got her whilst she danced! But who to ask? Mortimer didn't seem like he danced much. Maybe he'd be obliging.

Her mind drifted to the issue of the Nubby. She felt sure that it wouldn't be able to resist the chance to cause harm and mischief during the festivities, but could see no way to prevent that.. Her 'plan' was a simple one: react top whatever happened and hopefully make a useful difference in bringing the threat to an end. Worrying would change nothing. She really wasn't much of a worrier in any case. It was easy to put any concerns aside and sleep soundly dreaming of the dances to come.

At Minerva's (DM John)
Tuesday August 10th, 2021 12:14:20 PM

Loryn greets Fenfaren at the cliffs and introduces him to Minerva. He gets the distinct impression that she is intentionally ignoring his efforts to analyze her recipes.
Torrynashkabbeth assists with cleanup after dinner, receiving an approving nod from their hostess. Creating a nickname for the newcomer, she attempts to assure him.
Ash greats Fenfaran. Back at Minerva’s he retrieves the bed from storage, taking it upstairs to the available room.
Manolo remains quiet, enjoying the fine food and the anticipation of a great party.
Mortimer also welcomes the newcomer, reflecting on his own past. He joins the others for dinner. Minerva replies to his request with a deft collection of the offered payment and a quick jerk of her head toward the storeroom, “Grab you a chair. You look like you could use a good meal.”
Mole gives his greetings back at the boarding house.
Evred takes his seat at the table and explains their actions to the newcomer.
Fenfaran

When Mortimer reaches for his hard tack, he realizes Minerva had somehow managed to retrieve a saucer, place it before him, and fill it with sauce from the bowl . “Thoughts are good, but broth makes it better,” she explains with a maternal smile.
Minerva gives Mortimer a bowl of broth from the evening’s stew.

Scene 1: Happy Birthday to Grog!

Let the Party begin! (DM John)
Tuesday August 10th, 2021 12:17:00 PM

The evening passes uneventfully and the morning dawns with a flurry of activity. The proprietors of the Half-Ogre, Grog’s granddaughter, Valma, and her husband, Cerdic are busily directing the preparations for the party. It quickly becomes apparent that they intend to turn this birthday celebration into a full out festival. Having commandeered the fairgrounds for the event, they direct a multitude of helpers to set up makeshift tables made of planks set on barrels. Multiple stone fire rings are being built and ignited to facilitate the continuous preparation of roasted meats. Folks are setting up a variety of games for all ages and the local farmers are bringing in young animals and erecting pens to provide a petting zoo and animal rides for wee ones.

Others are pulling out and setting up a variety of games used in the Annual Festival of Renewal. On the west side of the fairground, a low temporary fence has been set up enclosing a round area roughly 50 ft in diameter. Temporary grandstands are quickly being erected around this makeshift arena. Located within the fenced area are pens holding several 3-month old pigs, each weighing about 60 lbs. Knowledge Local DC 10 (anyone living in Windhorn more than a year automatically succeeds). Highlight to display spoiler: {There is going to be a greased pig contest where contestants enter the ring and try to capture a greased pig and exit the ring with it before time runs out.}

Not too far from there, a temporary wood wall about 15 feet tall and 20 foot wide braced with angular support stands in another clearing. On one side is an image of a comical looking dwarf flying through the air with the caption “Toss the Dwarf” painted over it in bright red letters. The other side bears a large circular target of five concentric circles. In the center circle, for the bull’s eye, is a painting of a beautiful princess with large puckered lips. Knowledge Local DC 10 (anyone living in Windhorn more than a year automatically succeeds). Highlight to display spoiler: {This is the setup for the Toss the Dwarf game. Competitors attempt to pick up the “dwarf”, a heavy sand filled bag and hit the target with it. Local farmers and business folk typically provide prizes for the three contestants with the highest total score of three tosses. }

Other booths, ring toss, lawn bowling, a giant chess set, hopscotch courses, stages for musicians, a clearing for dancing, and much more are scattered around the commons. The field is filled with people laughing in anticipation of the impending entertainment.

Mid-afternoon, a tall, middle aged man in a simple tunic and breeches jumps on a box near the Toss the Dwarf game and helps an ancient half-ogre step up to join him. Everyone recognizes Cerdic, who runs the inn part of the Half-Ogre and his father-in-law, Grog.

Cerdic welcomes everyone to the party and introduces the guest of honor, wishing him a happy 111th birthday as he steps down. Grog, a half-ogre, looks fairly spry despite his unusually prolonged lifespan. Cerdic offers a hand, as his grandfather-in-law steps up to the boss, but the former adventurer pointedly refuses it. Standing proudly, with only a slight droop, he addresses the crowd, his voice booming and steady, “Friends. Relatives. Colleagues. Residents of Windhorn. Visitors. Travelers. Vagabonds.” At this point, Cerdic steps forward and whispers something to Grog.

He responds, his “whisper” clearly audible, ”I just didn’t want to leave anyone out”

He returns back to his speech, “Thank you all for coming, or for stopping what you are doing long enough to get free drink and food, and to have some fun.” He pauses to let the cheers and jeers die down.

“As you know, Windhorn Hamlet has been my home for quite a time now and my history here goes back a long way. Given that, there’s no point in this old windbag talking any longer. Let the party begin!”

Taken by surprise by the unexpected brevity of his speech, it takes a moment for the crowd to react, but react they do, cheering genuinely and heartily as the elderly half-ogre steps down. It takes Cerdic quite a while to regain control of the crowd.

Once he has their attention he explains, “How about we start off with a game of Toss the Dwarf while the food is being laid out and the kegs are being tapped?

“For those of you unfamiliar with the game, here are the rules: this game is played in three rounds with each contestant making one throw per round. The final score is the sum of the scores from all three rounds of tossing.

“To make a toss, a contestant must first pick up the “dwarf”, a lime dusted gunny sack filled with sand and sewn closed. The contestant then tosses the sack at the large wooden target with a kissing princess in the bull’s eye. Scoring is based on where on the target the sack hits.

Board AC 5: 1 pt
Outer Blue Ring AC 9: 3 pts
Yellow Ring AC 12: 5 pts
Green Ring AC 16: 7 pts
Black field with Princess AC 20: 9 pts

"In the event of a tie, the contestants continue one toss at a time until a winner emerges.

“Anyone wanting to play, come up here and grab one of these counters out of the bag.”
He holds up a bag, inside is a set of wooden tokens each one stamped with a unique number to determine the tossing order of the contestants. Several people rush forward to grab their token. As they do so, Cerdic checks their number and writes it down along with the contestant’s name on a piece of slate he has with him.

[OOC: Rules in game terms. Magic is allowed, but the “dwarf” has to physically be tossed. A toss consists of a strength check to determine one’s grip. This check provides a circumstance modifier to the toss which is resolved as a dexterity based attack with an improvised weapon.

Anyone wishing to compete should roll an unmodified d20 to determine their order of play.]

[OOC: for anyone referring to the Windhorn Map, the fairgrounds are area 7.]

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 9 AC:14
Tuesday August 10th, 2021 12:51:28 PM
Toss the Dwarf. That was potentially very embarrassing. Torryn could foresee herself being completely unable to lift the sandbag. It was far from light. Then again, perhaps she should have a go. After all, she was going to beat everyone else at dancing; so letting them mock her weakness seemed a fair exchange. Besides, she wasn't so conceited or proud that she's deny the good people of Windhorn a good laugh.
She then turned to Fenfaran, who she was ostensibly looking after.
"Watch this." She giggled.
"I'll do it!" She then declared, waving a hand aloft before spritely hopping up to take a token, all the time grinning impishly. It was just a bit of fun and would likely add to the hilarity of the day.

Evred Vost (Tanner) -- HP 16 | AC 15/11/13 | CMD 18 | F+5/R+2/W+0 d20=5 ;
Tuesday August 10th, 2021 3:39:47 PM
Evred is more than happy to compete in Toss the Dwarf. He approaches the stand and takes a number. "My dad says they used actual dwarves in the old days. Then one year there weren't any dwarves in town and they used a halfling instead. The poor guy nearly broke his neck due to the weight difference between dwarves and halflings. Then they switched to the sandbag."

d20=5

Loryn Glitterfall; AC 13 HP 8 Dan K
Tuesday August 10th, 2021 4:01:46 PM
Well the festival was certainly looking to live up to the stories he had heard about Windhorn. the place most certainly knew how to throw a party.The gnome tosses a glance at Mole at the dwarf toss game. He didn't strike Loryn as a sense of humor type of person, but no dwarf he as ever met has. "By all means Torry, give it a go. I'll cheer you on."

The gnome heads up with Torrynashkabbeth.

Spells per Day
1/day—dancing lights, ghost sound, prestidigitation, speak with animals
4/1

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 9 AC:14 d20=8 ; d20=8 ;
Tuesday August 10th, 2021 5:26:17 PM
It seemed that Torryn was not to go first (8). that was a relief. Still following Evred would be a challenge, not that she was worried. This was just fun. Most likely she'd end up throwing the sack into the crowd! She turned to Loryn.

"You'll probably want to stand near someone ...um...stout when I have my go. Just in case." She giggled. Luckily Loryn was small and could use such a person as cover should things go badly wrong.

OOC: Ignore the second roll. I got carried away thinking it was her turn.

Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 10/10
Tuesday August 10th, 2021 7:03:38 PM
Ash looks at the sack, and then gives his arms a once over. He lets out a little chuckle.and steps to the back of the group. "thats all you" he says to the stronger members of the group.

Manolo (Michael A) - HP 10/10 AC 17 d20+6=20 ; d20+6=26 ;
Tuesday August 10th, 2021 7:32:39 PM
Manolo looks around but doesn't participate.
Local Knowledge 20, 26

Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.) - HP: 8/8. AC:13 d20=18 ;
Tuesday August 10th, 2021 11:10:59 PM
Mortimer had forgotten that today was Grog's Birthday. Finally ... a bit of fun, good drink and a bloody piece of meat, nice and rare. Something still on the bone! He's been craving one of those for weeks.

Looking at Evred, he says, "I knew you'd have a go at this. Why not ... I'm game!" He takes off his threadbare cloak and casts it aside. He's tall and lanky ... a bit gaunt. He doesn't appear particularly stronger than the average human, but he looks hard and scarred from street living and dirt slinging. He would probably be a rather handsome young man if he wasn't so rough around the edges. A very old, yet regal-looking medallion hangs around his neck. Appears to have a family crest molded into it.

"Don't be scared ... I'll try and go easy on ya," he says jokingly in a light-hearted manner.

(d20 = 18)

Fenfaran - (Iain) AC:18 - HP:11/11 d4=3 ; d4=3 ; d20+10=29 ;
Wednesday August 11th, 2021 1:50:04 AM
Fen takes his fur cloak off and keeps a low profile (stealth:29) when he feels overwhelmed. He collects some berries and watches everything. It's all new and exciting. The flavors, smells, crowds. He seemed to enjoy a proper bed too!

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 9 AC:14
Wednesday August 11th, 2021 4:26:20 AM
"You two are going to so embarrassed when I beat you." Torryn told Mortimer and Evred, but her tone made it plain that she spoke purely in jest. She was far more concerned for the safety of the crowd, but it wouldn't be the first time that the dwarf had sailed significantly awry and wouldn't be the last. It was all part of the fun and she was happy enough to add to it.

Mole; (RichP) AC 18; HP 11; CMD 13
Wednesday August 11th, 2021 9:41:45 AM
Mole is not amused with the Toss the Dwarf game. Choosing to be elsewhere to avoid getting mad and causing a scene, he returns to town. After grabbing some ale, he heads into the nearby forest.

After finding a nice place to sit, he cracks his cask and drinks. His thoughts drift to the darkness of the caves of his youth.

Toss the Dwarf (DM John)
Wednesday August 11th, 2021 12:29:39 PM

Torrynashkabbeth, after some reluctance, joins in the game. She draws an 8.
Evred enthusiastically joins in. He draws a 5.
Loryn cheers on Torryn, accompanying her to the contestant area.
Manolo watches the crowd, but stays out of the game
Mortimer also joins in, removing his cloak in preparation. He draws an 18.
Fenfaran keeps a low profile.
Mole finds the game offensive and withdraws with a mug of ale.
Ash

The crowd enthusiastically gathers round the Toss the Dwarf sign, volunteers keeping them from crowding too close to the contestants. First up, is the guest of honor himself.

Grog, despite his unnatural years, is by no means decrepit. Although moving a bit stiffly, he still retains a great deal of physical strength. He lifts the “dwarf” capably and conducts a spinning toss. The sack flies through the air...and over the target. He chuckles as the few partygoers on the back of the target scream in surprise at the unexpected missile. “Oops,” replies the half-ogre, a happy smile on his face.

To Evred, Torryn, and Mortimer. Please roll a strength check. Determine the circumstance bonus from gripping the “dwarf” as follows:
<5 gives a -2 to the toss roll;
6-10 no modifier;
11-15 +2;
15-20 gives +5; and
>20 gives +10 to the toss roll.

Then make a dexterity based attack roll with an improvised weapon. Include the modifier from the strength check in making your roll. Using the AC listed in a previous DM post, please describe your throw and result.

Fenfaren notices a young child walking among the crowd, he overhears her tell one of the adults, Fenfaren only Highlight to display spoiler: {“My mum said she heard someone sneaking around town the last few nights. She was skinny and pale, but my mum didn’t see her face. You think she has anything to do with the sheep slaying?” The child quickly is lost in the crowd. }

Manolo overhears a different conversation. Manolo only Highlight to display spoiler: { “I think Trebor’s seeing someone. I saw a light in his house late last night and then I saw someone sneak out, but I couldn’t see who because it was so dark.”}

Mole hears something in the woods near him. Sight based perception DC 28 to see what it is.

Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.) - HP: 8/8. AC:13 d20=17 ; d20+8=19 ;
Wednesday August 11th, 2021 2:22:17 PM
When it's his turn, Mortimer gives everyone flexing pose, like a brute, and takes hold of the "dwarf".

(Strength check: 17. +5)

With a devilish grin that he focuses at Evred and Torryn, then starts a spinning maneuver that shows off his agility, generating enough force to send the dwarf flying high.

(Dex based Attack Roll: d20+3+5 = Hit AC 19.)

"That is close a one! I think it reached the black field. Good thing, the Princess is not so alone!"

Loryn Glitterfall; AC 13 HP 8 Dan K
Wednesday August 11th, 2021 5:32:39 PM
Loryn finds himself in danger of being trampled underfoot and does not much have an idea about how to remedy the situation, so he twists and dodges his way to his friends to cheer them on.

"Why Mortimer! I think I might owe you a gold piece"

The gnome is engrossed in the competition, the issues with the dark fey and possibly dangerous pranks far from his mind

Spells per Day
1/day—dancing lights, ghost sound, prestidigitation, speak with animals
4/1

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 9 AC:14 d20=20 ; d20=9 ;
Wednesday August 11th, 2021 6:22:44 PM
And just like that it was Torryn's turn. She pranced over to take her position next to the 'dwarf' and gave the onlookers a cheeky curtsy before grabbing the dwarf by the 'ears'.

(Strength check 20! Yields +10 to the throw)

She didn't try to lift the sack. Instead she simply rotated, relying on her excellent balance cultivated as she sought constantly to refine her dance technique. She spun, spun and then released!

(9: 9 under her DX+10=19! However, there are likely minuses for an improvised weapon. So it's likely she hits the green ring.)

Torryn gave an extra spin to control her movement and then stared in awe. She'd done it! And she hadn't hit anyone in the crowd! She quickly looked around for Loryn whom she gave an enthusiastic wave and very broad smile.

Manolo (Michael A) - HP 10/10 AC 17
Wednesday August 11th, 2021 10:01:15 PM
Manolo cheers on Mortimer and Torryn

Evred Vost (Tanner) -- HP 16 | AC 15/11/13 | CMD 18 | F+5/R+2/W+0 d20+4=18 ; d20+4=19 ; d20+4=6 ; d20+4=6 ;
Thursday August 12th, 2021 12:03:18 AM
OOC: Strength check 18

OOC: +1 BAB, +2 Dex mod, -4 improvised weapon, +5 circumstance modifier.

Check 19, 7 points
Check 6, 1 point
Check 6, 1 point
Total: 9 points

Evred makes a great initial throw, but falters on the last two. (Two 2s in a row? Boo, dice roller!)

Mole; (RichP) AC 18; HP 11; CMD 13 d20+8=18 ;
Thursday August 12th, 2021 2:27:30 AM
Not seeing what is coming, Mole grabs weapon and shield and prepares for when the maker of the noise comes into view.

"Who's there?" He says.

Fenfaran - (Iain) AC:18 - HP:11/11
Thursday August 12th, 2021 6:14:17 AM
Everyone seems super~charged and Fenfaran is having the time of his life skulking around taking in all the new sights, sounds, smells and emotions, learning as he goes and storing what he hears for when everyone is back together later (perception: ).

At some point he finds the pigs and casts good berries on his collection (d4's were on the last post) and feeds one/them through the fence (Wild empathy ~ casting guidance first: ) and strokes them cooing and talking (sylvan) with them (stealth: ~ if he needs to sneak to reach them).

Then having maybe made some new friends he carries on exploring this shiny, happy, bright new world.

Fenfaran - (Iain) AC:18 - HP:11/11 d20+2=10 ; d20+10=19 ; d20+10=24 ;
Thursday August 12th, 2021 6:16:16 AM
Everyone seems super~charged and Fenfaran is having the time of his life skulking around taking in all the new sights, sounds, smells and emotions, learning as he goes and storing what he hears for when everyone is back together later (perception:19).

At some point he finds the pigs and casts good berries on his collection (d4's were on the last post) and feeds one/them through the fence (Wild empathy:10 ~ casting guidance first: ) and strokes them cooing and talking (sylvan) with them (stealth:24 ~ if he needs to sneak to reach them w/o armor).

Then having maybe made some new friends he carries on exploring this shiny, happy, bright new world.

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 9 AC:14 d20=8 ; d20=8 ; d20=9 ; d20=10 ;
Thursday August 12th, 2021 7:54:27 AM
Two more throws? really? she had to go again?
Such was the case, so Torryn made the best of it; pretending to roll up her sleeves she again atood over the sack and did her best to get a firm grip of his 'ears'.

(ST check:8. Succeeded by 2. Still yields -2 to the throw.)

She again did her best to spin and fling the heavy sack towards the target.

(+4 DX modifier. -4 Improvised7! weapon -2 Circumstance on attempt 2. Throw : 6!

Not good, but then those 'ears' were not the easiest to hang on to and the sack was deceptively heavy. Yet with a winning smile, she tried again.

ST: 9. made it by 1.Throw= 7.

Not much better, but at least she was consistent.

(OOC: I misinterpreted Torryn's first throw. The 20 means she failed her strength check by 10. Thus the 9 for the throw -6 gives 3! I make that 2 points total. A 3 likley missed the entire target!)

Her last 2 attempts were improvements on her woeful first try, but she had scored 2 points! That was two more than those who'd declined to try. Having tried, she stepped down, still all smiles.

"Well, that wasn't as easy as Evred made it look." She giggled completely unconcerned by her poor showing.

Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.) - HP: 8/8. AC:13
Thursday August 12th, 2021 8:43:29 AM
(ooc: Mortimer's throw will probably need to be modified. I didn't know there was a -4 penalty for a improvised weapon.)

Toss the Dwarf - First Round (DM John) d20+2=8 ; d20=9 ; d20-1=18 ; d20+1=7 ; d20+1=17 ; d20+1=10 ; d20+2=17 ; d20+4=14 ; d20+4=7 ; d20+6=21 ;
Thursday August 12th, 2021 3:01:31 PM

Mortimer Scores a 15 (-4 for using improvised weapon). Hits Yellow Ring for 5 pts.
Loryn’s cares are temporarily forgotten.
Torrynashkabbeth Strength of 20 yields a +5 bonus. Net score: 14 (+4 for dex modifier, +0 BAB, -4 for improvised weapon, +5 circumstance bonus). Hits green ring for 5 points.
Manolo cheers on his friends.
Evred Hits the green ring on his first throw for 7 points. [Please reroll for round 2.]
Mole calls out, “Who’s there?”
Fenfaran approaches the pigs.
Ash

Fenfaren manages to sneak past the two farm hands keeping watch over the pigs. The pigs give him a sniff and lustily snatch the berries. Fenfaren has, in fact, made some new friends.

Mole hears nothing but the distant cheers of the crowd and the natural sounds of the wildlife around him.

At the game, the crowd is cheering on each comer. After Grog, Big Eddie is up. A farm hand working for Ballo Abershone, he is clearly a town favorite, evidenced by the hearty cheers he receives as he takes his place at the tossing point. Eddie steps right up, quickly grasping the bag and tossing it against the way. His “dwarf’ hits the blue ring--4 points. He shakes his head in frustration, clearly disappointed in his throw.

Evred is up next. He, too, is cheered on, most notably by the members of the Windguard. When his toss strikes the green ring, scoring 7 points, he receives several thumbs up in response.

Following Evred, Ballo Alberstone takes his place, his years of hard work, ably running his farm on the north side of town are evident as he firmly grasps the sack. Also, evident as he spins to launch his missile, is that he has already spent a lot of time at the drink stations. He slips just as he releases it, the bag barely glancing the side of the target for 1 point. “Yeah, Ballo!”, “At least he’s happy!” and other jeers resound at his slip.

When Torryn takes her turn, the crowd gasps at the elegance of her seamless grasp and release. Cheers erupt as she hits the yellow ring for 5 points.

Daedra,the Smith, has taken a break from her forge to join in. Her toss lands on the yellow ring for 5 points. After her turn she steps toward Lorryn and asks, “Where’s you friend? Please tell me he is not off sulking about this game. They mean no offense. And I really would like to pound that princess in the kisser.”

Gid, half-orc, owner of the Belt and Belch, a slightly more earthy drinking establish than the Half-Ogre, takes his turn. He also performs admirably, also scoring 5 points with a strike on the yellow ring.

Others take their turns the Mortimer tosses last. The crowd is in high spirits. They shout for the young man, his enthusiasm encouraging their cheers. They applaud merrily when he hits the yellow ring for 5 points.

The scores after Round 1 are hastily marked with charcoal on a large slab of wood set up to function as a scoreboard:

Evred 7 points
Torryn 5 points
Daedra 5 points
Gid 5 points
Mortimer 5 points
Strum 5 points
Biggus 3 points
Edra 3 points
Ballo 1 point

Then it is time for Round 2 to begin.

Grog steps forward. He nonchalantly grasps the sack with one hand and flings it underhanded, solidly landing it directly on the bull’s eye! A moment’s hush takes over the crowd, then bedlam erupts as they collectively realize what they just saw.

===========
[OOC: All contestants, only one round at a time please. Action is beind described in rounds just as if it were combat.
Evred, please roll for the 2nd round. The DM will include Torryn’s roll for round 2, but she will need to reroll for round 3 on that round’s post.]

Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 10/10
Thursday August 12th, 2021 6:42:50 PM
Ash cheers on his team mates as they go. His eyes go wide with shock at Grog calmly hitting the bullseye.

Evred Vost (Tanner) -- HP 16 | AC 15/11/13 | CMD 18 | F+5/R+2/W+0 d20+4=8 ;
Thursday August 12th, 2021 9:58:04 PM
OOC: +1 BAB, +2 Dex mod, -4 improvised weapon, +5 circumstance modifier.

Evred takes his place at the line and heaves the 'dwarf' toward the target. He barely missed the outer blue ring, but still manages to hit the board.

OOC: Hit 8, 1 point.

Manolo (Michael A) - HP 10/10 AC 17
Thursday August 12th, 2021 10:12:13 PM
Manolo keeps cheering.
'Evred and Torryn are probably currently winning', he thinks.

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 9 AC:14
Friday August 13th, 2021 5:04:13 AM
Torryn wouldn't be winning for long. Perhaps it was the multiple throws, but the sack just didn't feel as pliant as before. Nonetheless her smile never faltered. She grabbed, swung and released!

(OOC: Please see previous post. By my calculations - which maybe wrong - she hit the board: 1 point.)

Torryn jumped up and down in delight. Anyone would think that she's hit the bullseye.

Mole; (RichP) AC 18; HP 11; CMD 13 d20+8=19 ;
Friday August 13th, 2021 9:17:03 AM
Getting a little jumpy. He says to himself. He hears the crowds and thinks of the younglings he just met. They were bit scatterbrained and prong to being distracted. He'll watch them, but keep them at arms length, for now. Dwarves don't give trust easily and that is especially the case with non-dwarves.

He settles back down but continues to keep his guard up. He knows he heard something.

He has another drink.

Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.) - HP: 8/8. AC:13 d20=6 ; d20-1=4 ;
Friday August 13th, 2021 11:35:49 AM
Margrave looks at the judge as if he or she were blind. But not wanting to instigate an issue that will eventually lead to him being thrown into a cell or his head impaled on a stick, he graciously accepts the results, no matter how flawed they were, and tries another toss.

This time his grip isn't so great, nor is his balance and he basically falls over himself and onto the dwarf itself. As he gets up, he is visibly perturbed. He assailed by dark thoughts.

(Strength Check: 6, no modifier. Hit Range AC: d20+3-4 = 4)

Fenfaran - (Iain) AC:18 - HP:11/11 d20+10=20 ;
Friday August 13th, 2021 7:43:20 PM
Fen continues exploring (perception:20) and eventually finds the competition and watches, fascinated.

Toss the Dwarf - Second Round (DM John) d20+4=19 ; d20+11=26 ; d20+2=17 ; d20+5=19 ; d20+1=6 ; d20-4=0 ; d20+1=6 ; d20-2=7 ; d20+2=5 ; d20-3=-2 ;
Saturday August 14th, 2021 9:13:35 AM

Ash joins in the fun.
Evred throws wild, still managing to hit the board. Scores 1 point.
Manolo keeps cheering.
Torryn’s hits the board, but not the rings. Scores 1 point.
Mole tries to calm himself while remaining alert. He sees or hears nothing more.
Mortimer keeps his mouth shut at the scoring, and throws the next toss poorly. Not sure what the judge did wrong. The -4 is a mechanical adjustment to the roll, not a judge action. Did the DM miss something?
Fenfaran keeps an eye on things.
Loryn

Big Eddie takes his turn again. A little more deliberately he picks up the sack and gives it an expert toss at the target. Murmurs of bull’s eye ripple through the crowd. Adam Stanley, Master of the Farmer’s Coop and acting judge of the game, rushes up an examines the lime mark left by the bag. With a shake of his head, he calls out, “Nope, folks, but still 7 points!” The crowd erupts and a flurry of activity among the crowd ensues. Perception DC 10 only Highlight to display spoiler: { People are betting on the results and Eddie was apparently a favorite until the first throw, but is considered to be back in the running again with his second toss.}

Polite applause ensues. His fellow guardsmen, encouraging him to “make the next one count”.

Ballo steps up unsteadily. His grip is adequate, but he releases way too late, the crowd screams and people scatter as the “dwarf” comes hurtling toward those in the very front. Ballo looks more than a little embarrassed. “Oops,” is as close to an apology as he comes. He scores 0 points.

It’s Torryn’s turn and a lot of the young men and several of the older are paying attention this time. Barely hitting the board, she still gets a rousing cheer. Perception DC 10 Highlight to display spoiler: Highlight to display spoiler: { More from the men than the women though….}

The others take their turns as the crowd continues to cheer and jeer.

During a break in the action, a man in his mid-thirties or so approaches Manolo. In a not to soft conspiratorial whisper, he says, “ is approached by one of the townsfolk, “Weren’t you one of those trying to find the sheep killer. I saw Heorstan trying to help you. Maybe he should spend more time at home with his wife and less time in his workshop.” He lowers his voice a bit, then with a nudge of his elbow and a wink, he adds, “and maybe Agatha should spend less time there, too.”

After Round 2 here are the Totals

Big Eddie 4 + 7 points, 11 total
Evred 7 points +1 point. 8 total.
Torryn 5 points +1 point, 6 total.
Daedra 5 points + 1 point, 6 total.
Biggus 3 points, +3 points, 6 total
Gid 5 points + 0 points, 5 total
Mortimer 5 points + 0 points, 5 total
Strum 5 points +0 points, 5 total
Edra 3 points, +1 point, 4 total
Ballo 1 point + 0 points, 1 total

Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.) - HP: 8/8. AC:13
Saturday August 14th, 2021 9:21:59 AM
(ooc: The DM’s scoring is fine, Mortimer was simply having a John McEnroe moment. He obviously thought he had done much better. :)

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 9 AC:14 d20=11 ; d20=12 ;
Saturday August 14th, 2021 10:57:29 AM
Torryn had fared far better than she'd expected and she wasn't even taking things seriously.

(OOC:Perception 11+2=13. She notes the comments, but pays them no heed.
Second Perception:12+2=14.)

At the cheers she performs a quick pirouette and makes a mocking curtsy, before straightening to give the cheerers a quick flash of golden flesh. Her dress was high cut to the left. It was good for dancing, but not so practical for 'adventuring work. Still, this was a party and for a party a daring dress was always best!

Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 10/10
Saturday August 14th, 2021 5:53:20 PM
Ash mouths the words WOW as Bigg Eddie comes so close.

"Shake it off Evred. You're close "

Fenfaran - (Iain) AC:18 - HP:11/11
Sunday August 15th, 2021 3:15:58 PM
Fen casts guidance on each party member (granting them +1) before they throw.

Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.) - HP: 8/8. AC:13 d20=11 ; d20+1=19 ;
Sunday August 15th, 2021 3:51:42 PM
The term known by most is 'blind with rage', but not in this case. With Margrave, he is instead 'deafened with rage'. He isn't hearing what is actually being said. If he had gotten any encouragement from the people around him, he wasn't hearing it. He was feeling a cascade of negativity wash over him and it felt cold, like his heart was pumping ice through his veins. He shakes his hands to loosen them up. He had to make this third toss count. He tries to clear his mind of the pitiful echoes of laughter and ridicule in his head.

As he steps up to the 'dwarf' he breathes in deeply and quickly exhales. He doesn't notice the frost on his breath.

(Strength Check: 11, +2 modifier on grip. Hit Range AC: d20+3+2-4 = 19.)

The dwarf soars through the air and lands just short of the Princess! Mortimer gives a hop and a fist pump in celebration. "YEEAH ... SEE THAT DWARF FLY!"

Something catches his attention though. When the dwarf bag hit the ground, little white pieces shatter and break off in every direction. "What the?!" He then realizes his hand feels cold. He looks down and his right hand is covered in chunks of ice. "Bloody Hail!" A look of complete bewilderment fills his face.

Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.) - HP: 8/8. AC:13
Sunday August 15th, 2021 6:03:02 PM
(ooc: Didn’t see Fenfaran’s post when I started Mortimer’s. I guess Mortimer possibly got a 20! :)

Manolo (Michael A) - HP 10/10 AC 17
Sunday August 15th, 2021 9:49:01 PM
Manolo whispers back to him.
"Maybe".
He continues to stay still and asks.
"Who do you think is going to win?', he asks.

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 9 AC:14
Monday August 16th, 2021 4:09:25 AM
Well! that wasn't something you see every day! Torryn stared agape at the shattered dwarf, but started to giggle. It looked like she was spared her third throw.....unless of course they had a spare 'dwarf'. She shrugged the matter aside. If she had to take a third throw, she would and do so with as much panache as she could muster. After all, it wasn't about the actual throw, but entertaining the crowd.

Mole; (RichP) AC 18; HP 11; CMD 13
Monday August 16th, 2021 10:38:32 AM
Mole continues to drink his ale. He cast Speak with Animals and calls for some of the birds and other small animals to come to him. He enjoys the quiet with an ale.

Toss the Dwarf - Third Round, part 1 (DM John) d20+2=12 ; d20=19 ; d20+2=19 ; d20+5=15 ;
Monday August 16th, 2021 3:15:48 PM
Toss the Dwarf Round 3
Ash reacts to Big Eddie’s performance and cheers on Evred.
Fenfaran assists his new friends.
Mortimer gets serious and, with Fenfaren’s assistance, gets a bull’s eye while adding some ice to the throw!
Manolo responds to the man talking to him.Torryn
Torryn reacts to Mortimer’s throw.
Mole speaks with the animals.
Evred
Loryn

Grog takes his turn. He takes a look at the scoreboard and then appears to be in pain. He looks around and spies young Devin, the young man who’s family lost a sheep to the nuglub. “I seem to have pulled something. Devin, would you help me out?” When the young man shyly approaches, Grog takes time to show him how to lift and throw as the boy takes Grog’s turn for him. It starts with Grog showing him how to get a decent grip. The boy follows the half-ogre's instructions admirably. Then with a grunt of effort the boy manages to hit the green ring for 7 points!

Big Eddie manages to hit the yellow ring for 5 points, bringing his total to 16 points, tying him for first place... But wait! The judges quickly confer. It appears that Eddie crossed the fault line on his toss, disqualifying his last throw. His new total is 11 points. Shouts that are a competing mixture of frustration from those having wagered on him and exultation from those who betted against him, ring out at the judge’s proclamation.

The others continue their tosses as the round continues.

Serious murmurs pass through the crowd as Mortimer takes his turn, his intensity drawing them in. When he hits the bull’s eye--in this case, the princess’s lips--the crowd erupts and suddenly falls silent as realization of the frosty debris. The murmurs resume in earnest, “A wizard?”, “No, a sorcerer”, “Is that allowed?”, and other such snatches can be overheard. While the discussion ensues among the crowd, Grog rapidly approaches the young man. Quietly he asks him, “Sorcerer?” More loudly, he exclaims with a teeth jarring pat on the back, “Nice shot!” Mortimer's total after three rounds is 14 points, putting him strongly in second place behind Devin and Grog.

“Win?” answers the man to Manolo, a bit taken aback by the change in subject, “Uh, my money’s on Big Eddie.” He emphasizes his point by showing the wager marker gripped tightly in his fist. He screams, "Rigged! Rigged!" when he realizes the judges disqualified Big Eddie's last toss.

Meanwhile, Mole casts speak with animals. The birds are the first to respond while the mammals remain furtive. One robin boldly approaches and says, “You’re bigger than that other two-legger that was just here.” He cocks his head, then adds “I’ve never seen a two-legger with such bright feet before.” When Mole looks at his feet, he observes that his boots have been turned a very bright shade of pink.

After 3 rounds
Grog and Devin, 0, +9, +7, 16 total
Mortimer 5 points + 0 points, +9 points, 14 total
Big Eddie 4 + 7 points, 0 points, 11 total

After 2 rounds
Evred 7 points +1 point. 8 total.
Torryn 5 points +1 point, 6 total.
Daedra 5 points + 1 point, 6 total.
Biggus 3 points, +3 points, 6 total
Gid 5 points + 0 points, 5 total
Strum 5 points +0 points, 5 total
Edra 3 points, +1 point, 4 total
Ballo 1 point + 0 points, 1 total

Need tosses for Evred and Torryn

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 9 AC:14 d20=20 ; d20=4 ;
Monday August 16th, 2021 3:34:59 PM
Oblivious to the newly pink-booted Mole, Torryn happily took her place to throw for the third and final time. She looked down sceptically at the new dwarf with his short stubby ears. This probably wasn't going to end well. Still, the smile never left her lips.

She took a grip of the dwarf (OOC: 20!)

She quickly lifted, spun and released! (OOC: 4 - not quite so impressive: +5 to the throw, -4 improvised +4 DX, base 4 rolled. :Total : 9!)

The green ring and 3 points! That was far better than she'd expected. Torryn waved delightedly to the crowd as she vacated the area.

Evred Vost (Tanner) -- HP 16 | AC 15/11/13 | CMD 18 | F+5/R+2/W+0 d20+4=15 ; d20+1=8 ;
Monday August 16th, 2021 4:15:06 PM
OOC: Strength check 15

OOC: +1 BAB, +2 Dex mod, -4 improvised weapon, +2 circumstance modifier. Total 8, 1 point.

Evred curses hit luck as the sandbag only managed to graze the board instead of the target.

OOC: These rolls are killing me...

Fenfaran - (Iain) AC:18 - HP:11/11
Monday August 16th, 2021 5:52:47 PM
(dont forget the guidance)

Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.) - HP: 8/8. AC:13
Monday August 16th, 2021 11:08:19 PM
Mortimer's eyes dart all about, but they always come back to his hand partially covered in frozen chucks of ice. "Who did this?" he says completely befuddled. However for some unknown reason, deep down he always knew he was magically inclined. He could almost taste it when someone nearby possessed magic. He's seen the colorful lights, described to him as auras. That's one of the many reasons why he left Plateau City for the Hamlet ... it was over stimulation. The streets were loud enough, he didn't need the constant buzz of magic assaulting his senses. The Hamlet was a peaceful, gentle breeze in comparison ... along with its other many draws.

Even though he's been sensitive to magic, he never once believed he was a .."Sorcerer," Grog asks quietly? Mortimer is snapped back from his racing thoughts, enveloped in the big guy's shadow. For the first time in his young life, he doesn't know what to say. He always had a full quiver of quips and wisecracks for any situation. This time, Mortimer simply shrugs and utters, "Ehh?!" Grog's jolly slap on the back nearly knocks him to the ground.

He looks back at his recent acquaintances completely discombobulated. He just stands there in a awkward sort of way, trying to shake the ice from his hand.

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 9 AC:14
Tuesday August 17th, 2021 5:15:30 AM
OOC: I had forgotten the Guidance, but it wouldn't have promoted Torryn's score.

Torryn smiled at Mortimer and waved him over to join her. That he had ice slowly melting from his hands didn't seem to bother her in the slightest, but then for Mortimer - who could see auras - it wouldn't be difficult to see the faint spark of magic coruscating around her. Fleeting as it was, it seemed to manifest most at the ends of her hair.

Loryn Glitterfall; AC 13 HP 8 Dan K
Tuesday August 17th, 2021 8:51:57 AM
The gnome takes in the contest, cheering his new friends and politely applauding the good throws by any making them. Mortimer gave him a pause of concern. There would need to be a conversation later. Loren was not going to take on a dark fey or any other dangerous creatures with an untested, uncontrolled sorcerer. Folks, including himself could get killed and Loryn was sternly against being killed

Fenfaran - (Iain) AC:18 - HP:11/11
Tuesday August 17th, 2021 9:20:03 AM
Throughout the games when someone in the crowd occasionally notices a strange boy with antlers (who seemed to appear) next to them, he catches his tongue between his lips, concentrates and practices the “handshake” Loryn tutored him. He asks for feedback and fights a deep inner urge to prank them by lifting little items they leave open to his thin, nimble fingers. He wonders why folk didn’t understand the prank. There was always a lesson seeded inside ~ the seed of every destruction is often grown inside. Pranksters were merely showing you your weakness. 'Wait where did that come from'? He shakes it off and vanishes back into the crowd.

At Mortimer’s side Fen watches concerned as the newborn sorcerer awakens, scared. He still remembered the day long ago when he awoke surf rolling over him with no idea who he was, where he was…
His hand gently finds Mortimers, big wide eyes full of concern stare up at him.
“Everything will be ok Mortimer. You’re freends are here.” He hands him a goodberry (the berry provides nourishment as if it were a normal meal and also cures 1 point of damage when eaten, ~ maybe it warms up your cold hands a bit as you are not damaged? I will leave it to you it’s definitely magical though).

Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 10/10
Tuesday August 17th, 2021 10:20:14 AM
"Good shot Mortimer" Ash yells.

"Good shot everyone" he yells again.

The tall human is having a great time, enjoying the contest.

Mole; (RichP) AC 18; HP 11; CMD 13 d20+8=10 ;
Tuesday August 17th, 2021 12:08:37 PM
Pink boots? Interesting.

"Hello, excuse me but could I speak to you for a moment and maybe share a bit of this fine ale?" he says out to the forest. He couldn't see the trickster, but he was certain that the trickster was listening. "I'd like to ask you a few question about a fey in the area that has been killing livestock of the farmers."

Toss the Dwarf - Final Round (DM John) d20+1=13 ; d20=16 ; d20-1=7 ; d20-6=4 ;
Tuesday August 17th, 2021 12:30:16 PM

Torryn hits the green ring for 3 points, bringing her total to 9. She is completely accepting of Mortimer’s manifestation of power.
Evred continues to find tossing the bag more difficult than it looks. With Fenfaren’s magical assistance, he hits the outer ring, scoring 3 points.
Loryn resolves to speak with Mortimer later.
Fenfaran practicing greeting the townsfolk. He later attempt to comfort Mortimer with the gift of a goodberry.
Mortimer continues to reel from the recent development.
Ash shouts encouragement as he enjoys the game.
Mole talks to the birds.
Manolo

Evred manages to hit the outer blue ring, bringing his total to 10 points.

Ballo just waves and kicks over the “dwarf”, not even trying another toss.

Torryn manages to hit the green ring. Her total is 9.

Daedra takes his turn, hitting the green ring for 7 points, bringing her total to 13, bringing her to third place.

The others finish their turns. The final scores are as follows.

After 3 rounds
Grog and Devin, 0, +9, +7, 16 total
Mortimer 5 points + 0 points, +9 points, 14 total
Daedra 5 points + 1 point, 7 points, 13 total.
Big Eddie 4 + 7 points, 0 points, 11 total
Evred 7 points +1 point, +3 point. 10 total.
Torryn 5 points +1 point, +3 points, 9 total.
Biggus 3 points, +3 points, +3, 9 total
Gid 5 points + 0 points, +3, 8 total
Strum 5 points +0 points, +3, 8 total
Edra 3 points, +1 point, +2, 5 total
Ballo +1, +0, +0, 1 point total

Adam takes the podium again announcing the winners!

Third place goes to Daedra.
She steps up to take her prize, a cast of Belt Beer from Grog. She seems quite satisfied with her winnings and walks away with her prize tucked under one arm, a feat of strength not lost on many in the crowd as the cask easily weighs over 70 pounds.

Second place goes to Mortimer. Despite, or perhaps because of the frosty outburst, he receives handshakes and slaps on the back as he receives his prize, a bottle of Green Grape Wine, valued at 10 gp.

First place goes to Grog and Devin.Grog pushes Devin forward to accept his prize, a jug of Ezra’s Prime Whisky. Ezra is hastily summoned to the prize table. After a brief consultation, Ezra swaps the jug for a handful of coins, the amount easily exceeding the value of the sheep slain by the night slayer. Cheers erupt as realization of what just happened settles in.

The crowd disperses. Folks going for refills of food or drink or to enjoy the other games.

In the woods, Mole is continuing his conversation.
“Ale? Is that like water?” reponds the bird, flying closer to get a better look at what is offered.
“Mister Fox said he heard from Mister Owl that a not-beast was spreading death on the two-legger’s beasts. If fey, it must be the bad kind.”

Sometime later, activity starts to build at the greased pig arena. Obviously, that game will be starting soon.

Evred is approached by Heorstan who says to the centaur, “Bad luck with those throws, but I think you might have a better chance with the pig catch. If you’re planning on entering, I would like to propose a deal. You see, I have these herbs,” as he says this, he pulls out a small, herb-filled pouch, “that will make the pigs more manageable. Don’t worry, per the rules, they are allowed. But, if everyone had them, then they would no longer provide an advantage, so I would prefer you keep my offer silent. [OOC: he’s telling the truth. Such an advantage is permissible within the rules.] What I propose is should you win, we split the winnings. Plus, note that I will be betting on you, so I hope to benefit that way as well.” Everything known about Heorstan would lead you to believe his offer is genuine and above board, though, perhaps, a bit risky as some of his hare-brained ideas don’t always work as intended. See DM post on July 20 for information about Heorstan

Evred Vost (Tanner) -- HP 16 | AC 15/11/13 | CMD 18 | F+5/R+2/W+0
Tuesday August 17th, 2021 12:46:53 PM
Evred congratulates the winners, especially Mortimer. "Nice job, Mortimer! You were a better 'sandbag whisperer' than me today for sure!"

He listens to Heorstan's proposal, biting his bottom lip in thought. "How do the herbs work? Do they smell them? Eat them? Do I rub them on my body? Throw them at the pigs?"

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 9 AC:14
Tuesday August 17th, 2021 2:17:59 PM
Torryn had no intention of struggling with greased pigs. Someone else could entertain the crowd this time. There were just two things to think about: dancing and Nubby-catching. Whilst she knew a lot about dancing, she knew nothing of Nubbies and how to catch them. She looked around. What was everyone else doing? She stopped and peered about seeking to find the rest of her little group of investigators.

If no one was to be seen, she'd find the music. That was the cunning plan!

Manolo (Michael A) - HP 10/10 AC 17
Tuesday August 17th, 2021 7:38:01 PM
Manolo drinks and eats more.
He didn't respond to the man.
He was a little bit tired but he goes to see the other game....it might interest him more.

Fenfaran - (Iain) AC:18 - HP:11/11
Wednesday August 18th, 2021 5:23:15 AM
Fen heads over to the pig game ~ this one seems fun and he will join in. On the caveat that no animals are harmed during this production.

Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 10/10
Wednesday August 18th, 2021 8:20:16 AM
Ash claps at the announcement of the winners. He pats Mortimer on the back.
Once ready,he heads over to the greased pig game...

Loryn Glitterfall; AC 13 HP 8 Dan K
Wednesday August 18th, 2021 9:00:11 AM
The gnome congratulates Tory on her prize. “Sign of good things to come eh?” And he heads over to the greased pig area to see if his idea is legal. He tracks down who is in charge and asks about the use of magic. Is it allowed and to what extent?

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 9 AC:14
Wednesday August 18th, 2021 10:53:06 AM
"Wasn't me that won." Tarryn explained to Loryn. "It was Morty, but I can see how you'd think that. You know - what with us both looking so alike." She giggled at her own joke, plainly taking no offence at the simple error. Loryn was far from tall and amidst the crowd it would have been difficult to see exactly who was receiving what.

"So, I've not heard any music; so I guess we should like keep our eyes open for little Nubbies." She concluded, more hopefully than with an real notion of success.

Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.) - HP: 8/8. AC:13
Wednesday August 18th, 2021 11:47:13 AM
"Thanks, Evred ... Ash." After overhearing Loryn congratulating Torryn, he begins to wonder if his appearance has suddenly changed. With all the strange, new discoveries of the day, he thinks it would be entirely possible a gender bending effect had also taken place. He checks to make sure ... "Whew!" he says with a sigh of relief.

Mortimer accepts Fenfaran's Goodberry and cautiously puts it into his mouth. After his first taste, he decidedly chews and swallows it. He feels the effects of the magical berry and exclaims, "That was a GOOD berry! I feel a lot better, thanks."

He later graciously accepts his prize from Grog. This was most definitely the greatest prize/gift he had ever been given. His eyes go wide after he realizes it's quality. He brings it to his new friends, "Look ... our first treasure. Let's make sure everyone gets their share," he says with a proud smile.

Greased Pig Contest (DM John)
Wednesday August 18th, 2021 11:54:25 AM

Evred congratulates Mortimer on his win. He asks Heorstan some questions.
Torryn has no interest in pig chasing and goes to look for dancing.
Manolo checks out the pig contest.
Fenfaran heads toward the pig contest, too.
Ash congratulates Mortimer and heads to the next game.
Loryn heads over and checks into the rules.

Mortimer accepts his prize and offers to share with the others.
Mole

Heorstan explains to Evred, “These herbs only affect pigs. All you have to do is have them on you. If you get close enough for a pig to smell them, about 5’ or so, then you will find that they are more docile.”

Torryn quickly finds the place for dancing. A low wooden platform has been set up for musicians at the end of a freshly mowed area of the fairgrounds. Temporary benches, as in planks set on sections of logs, have been set up around the edge of the area for those wishing to sit and visit while watching the dancers. Currently, no musicians are playing.

Once again, Adam Stanley takes the podium. This time, to explain the greased pig contest.
Based on his explanation you understand the game goes as follows:

A number of pigs equal to half (rounded up if necessary) of the number of contestants is released, each pig having a number painted on its side. The gates are opening allowing the contestants to enter and an hourglass is inverted. When the hourglass is empty the first time, it is turned over. Once the glass runs out the second time, the game is over. Contestants must stop where they are and any uncaptured pigs are returned to their pens.

Players may interfere with other players, but cannot cause injuries. [non-lethal damage is not considered an injury, though knocking someone unconscious is]

Anyone who exits with a pig gets to keep it as their prize. If you do not wish to keep your pig, it can be traded in for a cash prize of 5 gp.

Magic or any special abilities are legal.

A player must exit the ring through one of the gates (opened by attendants) with a pig to win.,

If two or more players attempt to exit with both holding the same pig, neither wins.
Commonly understood, but not explicitly explained, is that players may work together within the ring. However, if the assistance is too overt, it tends to be unpopular with the spectators and the players are likely to get booed.

Once a player exits the ring, they may not reenter.

You may not kill, tie, knock the pig unconscious, or otherwise disable a pig to get it out of the ring.

All pigs are greased and very difficult to grab and hold on to.

After the rules are explained, several people go up to join in. Once again Big Eddie enters the contest. Devin, the teenager who "won" the dwarf toss does to. Several others also join in, including one lanky middle aged man wearing a leather apron and heavy leather gloves rather than the typical attire worn for a country party.

Knowledge Local 10 Highlight to display spoiler: { This is Trebor the Herbalist. He is known for making various alchemical and botanical concoctions. } Remember that one can make a knowledge check of DC10 or lower even if untrained. Manolo only Highlight to display spoiler: {This is the man you heard the rumor about.}

As the contestants sign up, betting once again ensues. Common wagers are first pig caught, first competitor caught, number of pigs caught, and yes/no on any individual contestant.

Who is up for an exciting greased pig contest?

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 9 AC:14 d20=16 ;
Wednesday August 18th, 2021 12:21:22 PM
Torryn wasn't excited by the pig catching contest: not in the lightest. That said, she was even less impressed with the distinct lack of music. She harrumphed to herself. At this rate she'd be betterv off finding Mole and sharing some of his beer. That of course begged the question - did dwarves even share beer or was that akin to a sacrilegious thought?

She went over to the empty, makeshift bandstand and climbed up onto it. Her view of the scene was much improved. From that vantage point she looked around to see whom she could see. Whilst there, she decided it probably wasn't such a terrible idea if she looked for Nubby signs. She'd no idea what those were, but it did seem to enjoy an ostentatious display of colour. that was a start.

(OOC: Perception: 16+2=18.....plus any circumstance bonus for her vantage point? +18+?)

Evred Vost (Tanner) -- HP 16 | AC 15/11/13 | CMD 18 | F+5/R+2/W+0
Wednesday August 18th, 2021 1:48:05 PM
Evred shrugs, "Alright, Heorstan, I will give them a try." He takes the bag of herbs and nods in thanks.

Really hoping these aren't herbs to encourage pigs to rut by mistake.

Evred approaches the stand and signs up to enter the contest.

Manolo (Michael A) - HP 10/10 AC 17 d20+6=9 ;
Wednesday August 18th, 2021 9:40:48 PM
Manolo is starting to get curious and ends up signing for the competition.

'Maybe, there is a cheater in the competition ', he thinks to himself concerned thinking about his very short conversation with the man before.

Local Knowledge 9

Mole; (RichP) AC 18; HP 11; CMD 13
Wednesday August 18th, 2021 11:24:54 PM
"A fey. Thank you for the information. Do you know who made my feet this color?" he says hoping to get the answer before his spell runs out. As he asks, he takes out some of the rations and breaks them up to give to the animals he talks to. "Next time I'll bring some bread. I think you'll like that." He says to the birds.

Fenfaran - (Iain) AC:18 - HP:11/11
Thursday August 19th, 2021 9:55:19 AM
Fen is up for pig chasing

Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 10/10
Thursday August 19th, 2021 9:59:31 AM
One not to belive in physical combat, and spells are probably unfair, Ash politely declines as he exits the pen.

He moves out and gets ready to cheer his friends on.

Loryn Glitterfall; AC 13 HP 8 Dan K d20+2=15 ;
Thursday August 19th, 2021 10:38:01 AM
Craning his neck upward he confirms Torryn's suspicions. "You do all have the same look from the thighs down. How in the Wold do your children keep track of you? I'd suspect they wander off with the wrong people all of the time."

Loryn listens to the rules and certainly hangs out with his new companions. Loryn will point out the one lanky middle aged man wearing a leather apron and heavy leather gloves to his friends. "That there guys is Trebor the Herbalist. He is known for making various alchemical and botanical concoctions and I'll bet he has some tricks in his bag as well Evred."

The gnome also decides to join the chase and steps up the gates leading in. "Exit with a piggie or two eh? I might be able to do that."

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 9 AC:14
Thursday August 19th, 2021 12:35:54 PM
Torryn smiled at Loryn's comments, but was pretty sure that her legs were not remotely similar to Morty's; not least because she was currently wearing a dress. Still, poor Loryn certainly had an obstructed view - not like hers from atop the bandstand. She cast a cursory eye over the enthralled mob watching the preparations for the pig wrangling, but it held little appeal. So she swiftly shifted her gaze to seek any tell-tale signs of the presence of a little Nubby. She had absolutely no idea what she was looking for, but it was far more interesting than watching little piggies being chased by men in big gloves. At least she thought so.

Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.) - HP: 8/8. AC:13
Thursday August 19th, 2021 5:57:48 PM
Mortimer decides to sit out the Pig Contest with Torryn and Loryn and contemplate being a magical creature of great and wondrous powers. He then realizes that Torryn and Loryn's names sound very similar. He wonders if there is something to that.

(ooc: Sorry so very busy and tired.)

Greased Pig Contest - Round 1 (DM John)
Thursday August 19th, 2021 6:00:55 PM

Torryn goes to the bandstand for a better view.
Evred accepts Heorstan’s offer and enters the contest.
Manolo joins the contest as well.
Mole converses with the robin.
Fenfaran signs up.
Ash exits the pen. NOTE: magic is expressly permitted in the rules
Loryn replies to Torryn and informs the others of the occupation of the oddly dressed contestant and rushes in to enter.
Mortimer takes a break from the games.

Torryn sees some folks with instruments starting to warm up. Perhaps they will start playing after the pig contest. Other than that, she sees nothing of particular interest other than a grand party with a fair-like feel.

In the woods. Mole asks about his boots, learning nothing helpful. The offer of food is well received. A chipmunk approaches once the prospect of food presents itself. He asks the robin, “Is Mr. Brightfoot a friend of yours?” Upon receiving an affirmative response, he dashes in for a share.

Back in the fairgrounds, final preparations are made. The pigs are given a final coating of lard before being released from their pens into the arena. Helpers gather at each of the four gates, one at each cardinal point in preparation for opening them to allow the competitors in.

The line up is
Devin, the teenager who “won” the dwarf toss)
Big Eddie
Trebor,
Evred,
Manolo,
Fenfaren,
Loryn,
And a few other townsfolk, bringing the total number of contestants to twelve.
Six pigs are released into the pen.

Adam Stanley calls out, “Ready, Players!” He then shouts, “Let the game begin!”

The gatekeepers respond by opening their gates and everyone rushes in. Not quite everyone, it turns out. Big Eddie ran away from the gate toward something he had hidden under a nearby table. The pigs begin squealing, jostling among themselves in the center of the pen as they attempt to stay away from anyone approaching.

Play instructions.
This contest will be played in rounds.

Assume a move action will get you adjacent to any pig in the arena.

To catch a pig, one must make a successful grapple check versus the pig’s greased CMD of 20.

Once grappled, a pig will attempt an escape artist check against his captor.

If the pig remains grappled, the check on the next round to maintain a grapple is at +5 and the captor can move at half their speed. Any captured pig will initially be 20’ from the nearest gate. Note that the pig will continue to use their action to attempt to wriggle free.

Evred only Highlight to display spoiler: {The herbs given to Evred reduce the pig's CMD by 2, making their effective CMD 18. Their escape artist check will also be reduced by 2.}

Evred Vost (Tanner) -- HP 16 | AC 15/11/13 | CMD 18 | F+5/R+2/W+0 d20+6=18 ;
Thursday August 19th, 2021 6:35:00 PM
Evred moves to the nearest pig, bending down to grasp the animal. The pig appears to be ready to bolt, but the scent of the herbs causes it to hesitate for a moment, giving Evred the opening he needs to scoop it up.

Grapple check 18, success.

Manolo (Michael A) - HP 10/10 AC 17 d20=5 ; d20+5=18 ;
Thursday August 19th, 2021 8:30:40 PM
Manolo moves to a pig near him and tries to grab and catch a pig but is unsuccessful.
As he falls into to the mud, he feels the pig slipping away from him.
He tries to look around him and see how the others are managing.

D20 =5 (dice roll for grapple)

Perception 18 (if needed or relevant in the round/time period)
OOC: not sure how to do grapple check (modifier wise)

Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.) - HP: 8/8. AC:13
Friday August 20th, 2021 12:36:16 AM
Normally at this time, while the crowds distracted by the games, Mortimer would be sampling from a plethora of valuables to pilfer. However that is not the case on this day. He still feels the 'buzz' from his magical manifestation. He can feel it just below the skin, in his blood, and it feels cold. He contemplates how he can control and harness this power at will. He's heard tales of sorcerer duels and how some seek out others to challenge and destroy. "A sitting duck, I am."

He takes a pint of whatever mead is available and seeks the comfort of a shade tree near the pig pens. He will smile and toast his new friends, but his mind is elsewhere trying to come to grips with this new world of magic.

Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 10/10
Friday August 20th, 2021 9:11:05 AM
Ash claps with excitement as Evred grabs a pig.

Seeing Manolo miss, he yells " Keep trying Manolo... you're close "

Out of the corner of his eye, he sees Mortimer sitting and decides to head over.

" Not your bag?" He asks about the contest. "Me.. i don't like to get dirty."

Loryn Glitterfall; AC 13 HP 8 Dan K d20+4=14 ;
Friday August 20th, 2021 2:25:06 PM
Loryn walks through the opened gate and steps to the side of it as the others move further in. With the bob of his proudly large nose, Loryn casts a spell Speak with Animals

He then begins calling to the pigs, "Here! Over Here! I'll protect you! Safety and escape over here!"
Diplomacy 14

Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.) - HP: 8/8. AC:13
Friday August 20th, 2021 2:27:16 PM
Margrave raises his pint to Ash as he approaches. To answer Ash's question, he actually has a very practical answer, "Don't get in a wrestle with a greased pig without a change of clothes. These old rags wouldn't survive such a tussle. I'm sure the locals would frown at the sight of my bum."

Fenfaran - (Iain) AC:18 - HP:11/11 d20+1=7 ;
Friday August 20th, 2021 3:14:23 PM
In reality Fen doesn't get it...
He gave the pigs his magic berries and sat talking with them for hours.
Weren't they now part of his pack?
He'd had far more animal friends than bipedal - all of his life.
So they would either come over to him when he called or they wouldn't.
He understood and would hold no ill grudges if the stupid dead animal oil made them fear or forget.

There were two rules he wouldn't break and yet ironically they were the two things that would easily win the game.
He wasn't about to speak in their tongue and 'ask' them to leave with him.
He wasn't about to charm them and take their free will away.
They would leave as friends and he would feed one a berry ~ or the weird oil would interfere.
He may be backward or young, but he knew his morals.
And so the boy who could speak and charm animals just stood there looking daft.
With a berry in his hand saying: "Hey friend, let's go wipe that oil off of you".
He makes no move to catch them.
He makes no move to trick them.
He just shines his innocence out and lets nature take it's course.
(Wild Empathy:7 but there hasn't been enough time for that so unsure and not bothered if a roll is needed ~ not expecting a result)

Of course 20 years later he looked back at himself & facepalmed.

Mole; (RichP) AC 18; HP 11; CMD 13
Friday August 20th, 2021 9:30:50 PM
Mole continues to drink until he finishes his drink. The pink boots are annoying because of the attention he will receive, they are not enough to cause him to get his panties in a bunch.

When he finishes his ale, he heads back into town.

Greased Pig Contest - Round 2 (DM John) d20+9=17 ; d20+1=15 ; d20+7=11 ; d20+1=17 ; d20+2=9
Saturday August 21st, 2021 10:49:07 AM

Evred, aided by Heorstan’s herbs, successfully grabs a pig. Maintaining the grapple is a DC 18 with a +5 bonus. At half movement, Evred can carry the pig to the nearest gate in one round.
Manolo tries, but doesn’t grab one yet. Hmmm. The spreadsheet you are using doesn’t have a place for CMB. CMB is [str mod] + [BAB]. For Manolo the CMB is +1
Mortimer takes a break as he considers his newly discovered powers.
Ash encourages his friends in the pen while seeking out Mortimer.
Loryn enters the pen casting speak with animals and tries to call a pig. [For reference, the DC to shift an unfriendly pig’s attitude to friendly is 12. ]
Fenfaran is internally conflicted about how to proceed. He offers another goodberry to one of the passing pigs. Yes, make rolls. This is a special circumstance for wild empathy checks. Pigs starting attitude is friendly because of Fenfaren’s previous encounter with them.
Mole finishes his ale and heads back.
Torryn wanders around the fairgrounds.

Pandemonium ensues as twelve competitors attempt to grab one of six pigs while those creatures dash madly about as they, in turn, attempt to avoid capture. Squealing pigs, screaming townsfolk, and stomping boots of the pursuers fill the evening air.

Manolo attempts a grab, but the pig stops and turns suddenly, avoiding capture..

Trebor steps just inside one gate, wearing his long leather gloves and apron, he takes a flask from his belt and begins smearing an unctuous concoction over his chest and arms.

Big Eddie has returned from his dash away from the pen, banging the side of the metal bucket he is carrying while calling out, “Here piggie, piggie, piggie!” One pig responds, a wary eye on the others in the ring, it begins to approach Big Eddie, warily watching the other people within the arena.

The pigs look up when Loryn speaks their language. The nearest one, just missing being grabbed by one of the other competitors, runs directly toward the gnome and his offer of safety. Another successful “diplomacy” check DC 7 will get it to leave with Lorryn.

Devin rushes at a pig, it slips through his fingers and scurries to the other side of the pen.

A different pig, this one being chased by two contestants, momentarily looks at Fenfaren as it dashes by. It flares its nostrils and gives a look of recognition and begins to head toward the young beastfolk, only to be interrupted by the unsuccessful attempt of one young half orc trying to catch it. The pig looks over its shoulder at Fenfaren as it dashes away. Perhaps it will return...

Evred, thanks to Heorstan’s herbs, has successfully grabbed a pig. The pig squirms, but despite its slippery condition, is unable to wiggle out of Evred’s grip. Can Evred keep hold while dragging the creature to the nearest gate a mere 20’ away?

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 9 AC:14
Saturday August 21st, 2021 11:02:08 AM
The cacophony at the pig pen was hardly something that she could dance to. Torryn really had no interest in catching piglets, especially not whilst wearing a dress. Instead she decided to simply wander wherever her whim took her. There were things to see. Those farthest from the noise appealed most.

Manolo (Michael A) - HP 10/10 AC 17 d20+5=23 ;
Sunday August 22nd, 2021 10:09:11 PM
Manolo changes his tactic, 'its going to be difficult to grapple one of them', he thinks.
He closes his eyes for a moment, takes a breaths and takes a look around.
Perception 23
Manolo thought process while looking around and seeing what what everyone is doing.
Was there something suspicious about the contestants?
Was there something foul going on ?
Perhaps there was a easy target to snatch and grapple... ?

Loryn Glitterfall; AC 13 HP 8 Dan K d20+4=18 ;
Monday August 23rd, 2021 9:35:31 AM
Loryn offers a smile and more encouragement to the pigglets. The others were making so much noise, he calls out as loud as his gnome stature allows.
Speak with Animals; Diplomacy 18 "Yes yes, I will keep you safe. Look out! To Me!"

and with that last bit, Loryn casts Ghost Sound right behind Eddie of several howling wolves
Will Disbelieve DC 15

Evred Vost (Tanner) -- HP 16 | AC 15/11/13 | CMD 18 | F+5/R+2/W+0 d20+11=25 ;
Monday August 23rd, 2021 12:27:27 PM
OOC: Grapple check 25

Evred is able to successfully carry his greased pig to the gate. "Haha! That was fun!" He turns and cheers on the competitors. "Come on! Grab those pigs! Bring home that bacon!"

Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.) - HP: 8/8. AC:13
Monday August 23rd, 2021 1:28:38 PM
Mortimer cheers on his friends from his spot under the shade tree. He then turns to Ash and asks, "So... what do you know of this magic business ... 'cause I'm a right, foul git when it comes to it."

Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 10/10
Monday August 23rd, 2021 3:31:12 PM
"Mortimer, that is all I know. Magic is my life. I walked away from a business and money from my family because it didn't catch that spark in my soul like magic does. I am no master of Magic, but one day willing, I will be "

Fenfaran - (Iain) AC:18 - HP:11/11 d20+1=14 ;
Monday August 23rd, 2021 4:52:42 PM
Fen calls the pigs (wild empathy 14) and heads out.

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 9 AC:14
Monday August 23rd, 2021 5:30:37 PM
The cacophony of the greased pig competition was just that to Torryn. It had all the appeal of of rusted squeaking door. How others found it so entertaining she did not understand, particularly as the competition necessitated getting so dirty and smelly. She had a good vantage point from the bandstand and would be the first to know when the dancing was about to begin. It seemed the best that she could hope for presently.

Manolo (Michael A) - HP 10/10 AC 17 d20+1=15 ;
Monday August 23rd, 2021 8:36:21 PM
Manolo tries his best to catch the same pig and hold it in place.

Grapple 15

OOC: Not sure how many rounds this comp is ?
OOC: if the previous action is the final one I would like to use this action instead....if it makes sense ?

Mole; (RichP) AC 18; HP 11; CMD 13
Monday August 23rd, 2021 9:40:13 PM
Mole returns to the village. He stops by his normal hangout. He can hear the sounds of the crowds. He still doesn't understand humans and their odd customs. Perhaps it's because of their shorter lifespans, but dwarfs don't celebrate so often. Larger milestones are celebrated, decades and centuries, and cause great celebrations.

DM Steve -- Haha! That was fun! d12=4 ; d20-5=15 ; d20-5=6 ; d20+5=24 ; d20=6 ; d20=9 ;
Monday August 23rd, 2021 11:03:01 PM
Fenfaran calls the pigs (wild empathy 14) and heads out.
Torryn decides to wander and see what she can see, away from the noise of the pig catching contest.. She finds a spot where she’ll be ready when the dancing starts.
Evred carries his pig to the gate.
Loryn encourages the pigs by talking to them, promising to keep them safe. For good measure, he creates a noise of wolves behind Big Eddie.
Manolo takes a moment to see what the other contestants are doing, looking for an easy target.
Mole arrives back at the village but does not join the party..
Mortimer cheers on his friends and asks Ash about magic.
Ash tells Mortimer what he can, mostly how he feels about magic.

As the sound of wolves echoes through the party, the pigs become frenzied. They run away from Big Eddie’s direction and towards Evred, who happens to be at the other end of the pen. Loryn’s pig approaches him at the sound, but the one Fenfaren had befriended spooks. Manolo sees that he can benefit from this turn of events. The crowd starts booing, and the other contestants glare at Loryn.

Big Eddie moves around the pen, following the pigs. Most of the other contestants move more directly at the pigs. But Trebor reaches into his pocket and throws something at Loryn. He misses, and a cloud of dust occupies the square next to Loryn.

Perhaps because he was already headed away from the “wolves,” Evred’s pig does not squirm away before he reaches the gate. He has the first win, just barely into the contest.

Fenfaren’s pig moves away from him even further when someone tries, and fails, to grab it.

Torryn has not managed to escape the contest entirely, though. Near her, a couple of townsfolk are talking about it. “Adam’s lucky that “The Beast” didn’t get those pigs.” “Well, I’m sure those big dogs of his don’t hurt.” “True. True. Hmmm. I wonder where I can find some dogs like that…”

Manolo’s next attempt to grapple is at +4 because the pigs are heading towards him and he is prepared.

Loryn, the dust is not as bad as a direct hit would have been, but it is still bad. Make a DC 8 fortitude save or start sneezing. While sneezing, a character is staggered. (A staggered creature may take a single move action or standard action each round (but not both, nor can he take full-round actions). A staggered creature can still take free, swift and immediate actions.)

Evred Vost (Tanner) -- HP 16 | AC 15/11/13 | CMD 18 | F+5/R+2/W+0
Monday August 23rd, 2021 11:43:58 PM
Evred claps loudly and does his best to rally the contestants. "Sooooeeee! Catch those pigs! Git 'em, git 'em, git 'em!"

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 9 AC:14
Tuesday August 24th, 2021 5:40:44 AM
Torryn didn't really have a clue who Adam was. Nor had she ever glimpsed "The Beast". She passed off the conversation off as everyday gossip. She idly wondered where Mole was. It would be fun to get the surly dwarf up and dancing. One thing of which she was sure: she was not dancing with anyone covered in mud!

Loryn Glitterfall; AC 13 HP 8 Dan K d20=19 ;
Tuesday August 24th, 2021 9:01:41 AM
Loryn wrinkles his nose at the cloud and no idea why anyone was booing at, what he considered to be a brilliant move since he was standing right next to the exit gate with Evred and that is where the pigs were now coming. But obviously the humans thought he was not playing fair and this was their game.

The gnome shrugs and looks at the one pig next to him, "Well come along I suppose." and Loryn exits the gate with the 1 pig. Once outside he casts Prestidigitation upon his boots to clean them up. he does not re-enter but finds a spot near the fence line to watch and cheer on Manolo, Fanferran and Evred

Fort save 21

Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 10/10
Tuesday August 24th, 2021 9:11:56 AM
"Yes Evred...." Ash yells at the top of his lungs.

He turns back to Mortimer. "What got you into the magic arts?"

Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.) - HP: 8/8. AC:13
Tuesday August 24th, 2021 11:26:30 AM
Mortimer looks back at Ash with wide eyes and exclaims, "I don't know ... it just now happened, it did! Didn't you watch the Dwarf Toss? Frosty ice shot from my hand. I've seen a lot of strange things, I did, but nothing like that ever happened before!!"

Fenfaran - (Iain) AC:18 - HP:11/11
Tuesday August 24th, 2021 2:37:07 PM
All of his friends were running past him with fear in their eyes.
He didn't like the feeling that left in his stomach and so with 'FHands' on hips he huffs out of the game area. ;-)

Looking around he spots and walks up to Mortimer and Ash and plonks down near them.

"Look, all of this is just too much for me. But then I remember I am not alone.
That we all grow and growing is painful".
He remembers to breathe.
Just.

Manolo (Michael A) - HP 10/10 AC 17 d20+5=8 ;
Tuesday August 24th, 2021 7:08:31 PM
Manolo tries, hopelessly, to grapple one of the pigs but he slips unluckily

grapple 8.

DM Steve -- Haha! That was fun! d20=12 ; d20=5 ; d20=16 ; d20=3 ;
Tuesday August 24th, 2021 11:11:44 PM
Torryn wonders where Mole is, and thinks he could be a fun dance partner.
Evred encourages the others in the contest.
Manolo tries to grab a pig but misses.
Mole hangs out at his usual haunt.
Fenfaran is upset that his friends have been scared, and leaves the pen. He goes to talk with Ash and Mortimer.
Ash continues talking with Mortimer.
Loryn ignores the sneezing powder and walks out with his pig.
Mortimer explains to Ash that the magic just happened.

The area around the pen is quite raucous. The pigs are still a bit wild from their scare, and no one catches one this round. Trebor does not try to catch a pig, but throws his arms wide as if inviting the pigs to approach -- although none do. Big Eddie continues trying to attract a pig with food.

Trebor draws a number of boos. If you listen carefully, it’s for having bad aim and not for using the sneezing powder in the first place. Loryn seems to have disrupted the betting, within the rules or not.

Manolo is the only one of the adventurers remaining in the game. Evred has his pig, and has joined the crowd in cheering. The judges confirm Loryn’s win. Fenfaren, Ash, and Mortimer talk nearby.

Torryn is still at the party, though not at the contest, and she spots Mole in town nut not at the party. The gossipers nearby continue, “Wish I’d been really lucky and won that dwarf toss. I heard that Ezra has stopped making new barrels of his premium whiskey.” “Me, too. I also heard that he and Agatha got in a big argument right before it happened.”

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 9 AC:14
Wednesday August 25th, 2021 4:30:10 AM
Whilst most young girls in the village thrived on gossip, Torryn didn't. There were plenty of natural wonders that delighted her far more than idle chit-chat. So she paid no heed to the conversation.

Seeing that there'd be no music in the near future, she decided that she'd go cheer Mole up. Mole probably wasn't as dour as he would have others think. At least that was her opinion; not that she knew anything about dwarves having met so very few. Still, even a grumpy dwarf was better company than watching dirty piglets being chased through the mud by grown men.

Mole; (RichP) AC 18; HP 11; CMD 13
Wednesday August 25th, 2021 8:07:41 AM
Mole sits and orders more drink. As he drinks his ale, he notices Torry and orders her a drink.

"Well lass, how were the games?" He says showcasing his pink boots. "A gift from a woodland friend." He continues. "Have a seat and join me fer a drink."

Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 10/10
Wednesday August 25th, 2021 9:31:30 AM
"Just happened?" Ash asks... " Thats new to me. I studied magic, reading in books in libraries, met some traveling practitioners. Does that mean you're a sorcerer? like you have no spellbook,not scrolls? you take the spells from your head?"

Seeing Fenfaran sit down, Ash shares a smile... and nods. " You're right. We're not alone. We are together, the lot of us. If you need us, we'll be here. " he pats Fenfaran on the back to assure him.

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 9 AC:14
Wednesday August 25th, 2021 10:12:12 AM
Torryn approached Mole with a ready smile and then sat down next to him. That greatly minimised the height difference.

"Your boots are rather...um...bright." Offered Torryn, as she examined the unusually colourful footwear. "Mind if I just go a little check on them?" She added with a hopeful grin. "Oh, as to drink; I'd love some apple juice, or cider, but not 'Aunt Grelly's' - that's bone dry stuff. Ugh, have you tried that? They say it's a bit of an acquired taste. I must say, it's not one that I'm keen to acquire. You might like it though. It's rather strong.

"Aunt Grelly's tonic" was the nickname for the locally brewed cider, but not just any ci9der. It was just the extra dry, extra strong stuff. So far as Torryn knew, dwarves purportedly enjoyed strong liquor; so she thought they if anyone was going to enjoy that concoction, it would be Mole.

OOC: Once Mole gives his permission, she'll cast Detect Magic on the boots.

"As to the games; they are still very much in progress. I did well in the throwing competition, but Evred did better. he won." She judiciously elected not to call it Dwarf tossing. "Now they're all scrambling around in the mud trying to grab piglets. That really holds no appeal for me. So what have you been up to, apart fro making friends with the Fey?"

Evred Vost (Tanner) -- HP 16 | AC 15/11/13 | CMD 18 | F+5/R+2/W+0
Wednesday August 25th, 2021 12:44:45 PM
Evred would like to join those getting drinks, but the competition is still on! "Come on, Manolo! Catch that pig! Show him who's boss!"

Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.) - HP: 8/8. AC:13
Wednesday August 25th, 2021 12:59:55 PM
"A sorcerer seems to be the common opinion among Grog and the crowd. That's what they started callin' me, they did! Never studied magic like the rest of you finger twiddlers. How am I supposed to know what I can do? It feels cold under the skin, whatever it is. You know any sorcerers?"

Loryn Glitterfall; AC 13 HP 8 Dan K d20+4=8 ;
Wednesday August 25th, 2021 1:54:55 PM
Loryn gives a nearby bystander a wave of his hand at hearing about the disruption to the bets and how some folk thought it would go. Cocking his head with a thought he decides to step back in, his animal spell was still active and really, all he intended to do is see if he could call over another. no chance of actually running about and laying hands one one.

So Loryn steps back in and calls out to the running pigs in general, "Safety this way! Food and Family! Run run Run over here!"
[Diplomacy 8]

Manolo (Michael A) - HP 10/10 AC 17 d20+5=11 ;
Wednesday August 25th, 2021 8:19:17 PM
Manolo tries once again to get a hold of the pig, but alas, he only stumbles and falls on the floor.
Grapple 11

DM Steve -- Your boots are rather...um...bright. d20=1 ; d20=11 ; d20=5 ; d20=3 ; d20+7=20 ; d3=3 ;
Wednesday August 25th, 2021 10:56:13 PM
Mortimer asks Ash about sorcerers.
Loryn decides to go back in the pen.
Torrynashkabbeth goes to meet Mole. She compliments his boots and complains about the pig-catching contest.
Manolo tries again to catch a pig, but misses.
Evred continues to cheer, while thinking about getting a drink.
Mole offers Torryn a drink, and shows off his bright pink boots.
Fenfaran is quiet.
Ash continues to talk about magic, and offers Fenfaren support.

Loryn fails to attract any pigs, but one of the judges calls, “Hey, get back out here. You’ve already got yours.”

Heorstan shows up -- very happy with Evred’s showing -- and offers to buy him drinks after the contest is over.

The pen is even more chaotic once three dogs jump the fence and then jump Trebor. “Hey, Trebor, they seem to like that stuff!” comes a shout from the crowd, followed by laughter. More quietly spoken is the exchange, “I think Trebor’s seeing someone. I saw a light in his house late last night and then I saw someone sneak out, but I couldn’t see who because it was so dark.” “Do tell. . .”

One of the judges makes a show of turning the timer, signaling that the contest is half over. “Half over, and two pigs won,” someone complains. “Shouldn’t have bet that no one would get one,” says another voice.

No one manages to grapple a pig, but Big Eddie has gotten the attention of three of them with his food bucket.

Torryn casts her spell and finds that Mole’s boots are magic.

Evred Vost (Tanner) -- HP 16 | AC 15/11/13 | CMD 18 | F+5/R+2/W+0
Wednesday August 25th, 2021 11:58:16 PM
Evred is happy to accept Heorstan's offer... As soon as Manolo finishes catching this pig! He continues cheering and whooping.

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 9 AC:14
Thursday August 26th, 2021 4:22:40 AM
"Well, Mole, it is as I suspected; there's a dweomer on your boots and..." She paused for both dramatic effect and to decide how best to phrase things. "Isn't it an odd coincidence that Devin's cloak was also changed to a bright colour? Perhaps you met the Nubby."

Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 10/10
Thursday August 26th, 2021 8:27:17 AM
"A sorcerer. No, can't say I have. So you'd be the first. " Ash says with a smile.

" Magic is chaotic in any form, but more so with someone who can just summon the spell they need to their mind. It'll be trial and error for you.. but I am sure when you get used to it.. we'll one day know you as Mortimer the Mighty. "

Loryn Glitterfall; AC 13 HP 8 Dan K d20+4=5 ;
Thursday August 26th, 2021 9:00:44 AM
"Oh, sorry." comes the reply from the gnome. "That part of the rules must have gone over my head." he exclaims with a grin. Loryn exits and talks to the pig next to him, perhaps he could help.

"That big man wants to eat your friends, they would listen to you to run right?"
[Diplomacy 5]

Mole; (RichP) AC 18; HP 11; CMD 13
Thursday August 26th, 2021 10:51:17 AM
"I don't think it was. The birds knew the creature and seemed unafraid of it." he says. "I'm not too concerned. I didn't react in the way it wanted, I suspect. It was a quick change and then it was gone."

Fenfaran - (Iain) AC:18 - HP:11/11 d20+10=22 ;
Thursday August 26th, 2021 11:35:30 AM
Fen looks for anyone exceptionally pale within the crowd (perception:22)

Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.) - HP: 8/8. AC:13
Thursday August 26th, 2021 5:18:23 PM
"Ha ... Mighty! More like ... Mortimer the 'Black, Burnt Stain' on the ground!" He chuckles at his clever, little joke. His laughter slow burns away as he realizes that could very well be a probable ending to his story. He takes a quick drink of mead to fill his slacked jaw.

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 9 AC:14
Thursday August 26th, 2021 8:39:43 PM
"Hmm." Torryn responded to Mole's observations. "So it seems that there's more than one kind of fey around here, although likely just one of the Dark kind. Typically, the Light and Dark really don't get along; so maybe your little friend might be able to help us. Oh wait! I think Fenny speaks Fey. Maybe. I wish I did. I'm sort of Fey-blooded, but honestly, I don't understand a single word of the language. hey, do you think might recognise me as being fey-blooded?" She asked with evident curiosity before leaning forward and adding in a far more conspiratorial whisper . "I've never actually spoken with a Fey before."

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 9 AC:14
Thursday August 26th, 2021 8:39:45 PM
"Hmm." Torryn responded to Mole's observations. "So it seems that there's more than one kind of fey around here, although likely just one of the Dark kind. Typically, the Light and Dark really don't get along; so maybe your little friend might be able to help us. Oh wait! I think Fenny speaks Fey. Maybe. I wish I did. I'm sort of Fey-blooded, but honestly, I don't understand a single word of the language. hey, do you think might recognise me as being fey-blooded?" She asked with evident curiosity before leaning forward and adding in a far more conspiratorial whisper . "I've never actually spoken with a Fey before."

Manolo (Michael A) - HP 10/10 AC 17 d20=15 ;
Thursday August 26th, 2021 8:50:25 PM
Manolo takes a deep breath.
He closes his eyes and open them after a few seconds.
He notices that he is running out of time.
'Its probably now or never', he thinks as he tries to grapple the pig one last time.
Grapple rolled 15 should add +1 for Strength mod not sure if I should add anything else.

DM Steve -- Magic is chaotic in any form. d6=3 ; d6=1 ; d20+7=25 ; d20=13 ; d20=15 ; d20=19 ; d20=9 ;
Friday August 27th, 2021 12:26:59 AM
Torrynashkabbeth tells Mole that his boots have been magicked and perhaps he met the Nubby. Or perhaps a light fey.
Evred cheers his friend on for now, ready for the drink after.
Loryn leaves the pen and talks to the pigs from outside. For now, however, they ignore him.
Manolo tries, but misses, one more grapple.
Mortimer realizes he may have some mishaps learning to deal with his magic.
Fenfaran looks for anyone pale in the crowd.
Mole thinks whatever he met was not the Nubby -- the animals were not afraid of it.
Ash predicts Mortimer will grow into his magic.

(OOC: If Manolo wants to make four grapple attempts, we can speed the contest along. Realize the pigs are very difficult to catch.)

With ten contestants and four pigs left, things are getting a bit chaotic. The townsfolk trying to grab the pigs chase off one of the ones Big Eddie had attracted, but he manages to leave the pen with two. That leaves nine contestants and two pigs.

Trebor uses another sneezing powder on the dogs that jumped him, then runs off in embarrassment.

Fenfaran scans the crowd. The palest person he sees is a youngish woman, not unattractive but staying at the edge of the crowd by herself. She’s paying attention to the contest.

Loryn Glitterfall; AC 13 HP 8 Dan K d20=10 ;
Friday August 27th, 2021 1:10:30 PM
"Cmon Manolo!, Grab that piggie." Loryn stays at the fence side cheering on the last of his friends.

He also makes a quick scan about for the others, but so many thighs and knees in the way
[perception 10]

Evred Vost (Tanner) -- HP 16 | AC 15/11/13 | CMD 18 | F+5/R+2/W+0
Friday August 27th, 2021 7:36:44 PM
*turns imaginary ballcap inside-out, transforming it into the fabled ralley-cap*

"Here we go, Manolo! Here we go!"

*clap clap*

"Here we go, Manolo! Here we go!"

*clap clap*

Fenfaran - (Iain) AC:18 - HP:11/11
Friday August 27th, 2021 8:48:20 PM
Fen asks someone in the crowd who the pale woman is and performs a marvelous handshake on them.
He's certainly mastered the ancient martial art of the handshake (in his head).

Mole; (RichP) AC 18; HP 11; CMD 13 d20+7=24 ;
Saturday August 28th, 2021 12:03:35 PM
(Nature knowledge check DC24)

"I'm not sure what ya mean be dark and light kinds. Most fey are just whimsical not much malice intent. They're just pranksters. If ya ignore their pranks they get bored and leave ya alone." He says.

"We should head back to the farmstead after all the festivities are done."

He orders more drinks.

DM Steve -- Here we go, Manolo! Here we go! d20=10 ; d20=2 ; d20=2 ; d20=14 ; d20=10 ; d20=14 ; d20=15 ; d20=16 ; d20=3 ; d20=20 ; d20=3 ; d20=20 ; d20=3 ; d20=20 ; d20=19 ; d20=7 ; d20+11=22 ; d20+11=30 ; d20+1=10 ; d20+1=5 ;
Saturday August 28th, 2021 12:25:49 PM
Evred cheers on Manolo.
Loryn encourages Manolo and looks for the rest of the group. He is able to spot Evred, and has some idea where Fenfaran, Ash, and Mortimer must be. He has lost track of Mole and Torryn.
Fenfaran asks about the woman he spotted in the crowd. That’s Agatha, the cat-lady. She’s a bit stand-offish..
Mole and Torrynashkabbeth enjoy each other’s company away from the contest but where they can see the goings on there. Mole corrects Torryn about “light” and “dark” fey.
Ash and Mortimer continue their conversation.
Manolo tries, but misses, one more grapple.

As the scramble in the pen continues, two of the townsfolk each manage to get a good grip on a pig, but each time the greased pig squirms free.

(OOC: Manolo, still looking for up to four grapple attempts.)

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 9 AC:14
Saturday August 28th, 2021 12:41:49 PM
"Um..."Began Torryn nervously. "I'm not sure I can drink another, thank you." She was concerned about the strength of the alcoholic drink. Not being a drinker and certainly not possessing the constitution of a dwarf, she was not able to keep pace with Mole.

"As to the Fey; yes, they are prankster whether Light or Dark, but the Dark ones can be particularly malicious and whilst the Light may indeed get bored and move on, the Dark are just as likely to go to further extremes. I know because I'm part Fey, but don't shout it. people tend to get a bit nervous around the Fey - even part Fey and honestly, I'm only a bit Fey" She held up her hand with finger and thumb less than an inch apart to emphasise that incredibly small portion of her blood that she believed - whether rightly or wrongly - originated amongst the Fey.

Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.) - HP: 8/8. AC:13
Sunday August 29th, 2021 8:46:15 PM
As Mortimer continues to watch Manolo have his go with the pigs, he also continues to gather some insight into the others by continuing his conversation with Ash.

"Well, itsa easy guess that Loryn has the magic touch. Hear gnomes are made from it, I have." After a measured pause, he continues, "What sorta bird is Torryn? I woulda swore I saw the tips of her hair sparkle with color. Just for a moment, I did."

Mortimer takes another sip of mead and says, "Ya know ... methinks this little crew we've become has the captain's share of magic. What are the odds of that?"

Manolo (Michael A) - HP 10/10 AC 17 d20=4 ;
Sunday August 29th, 2021 9:36:13 PM
Manolo is almost ready to give up when he suddenly starts to laugh .
Manolo starts to shout out frustration, 'It is impossible', he thinks to himself, 'I am going to lose'.
He tries to blend in the environment while thinking about perhaps another last idea.
'I can't hurt them', he concludes when thinking about the more violent options to win.
'Heist attempt it is', he finally realizes.

Stealth 12 (4+8)

Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 10/10
Monday August 30th, 2021 1:20:46 PM
Ash nods to Mortimer while still watching the contest. " We sure do. We're probably the majority of beings able to use magic in the area. "

Fenfaran - (Iain) AC:18 - HP:11/11
Monday August 30th, 2021 2:50:31 PM
Fen approaches Agatha, the cat-lady and offers to shake her hand.

Loryn Glitterfall; AC 13 HP 8 Dan K
Monday August 30th, 2021 2:54:23 PM
As his Prestidigitation spell is still active, Loryn cleans his clothes to free himself of mud and such. He looks back to Manolo, what is that human doing? "C'mon there Manolo, get a good grip on him."

"Hey Evred? can you see the others? All i have is knees and butts down here"

Evred Vost (Tanner) -- HP 16 | AC 15/11/13 | CMD 18 | F+5/R+2/W+0
Monday August 30th, 2021 9:24:24 PM
Evred nods to Loryn. "Yep, sure can. Manolo is having a hard time getting that pig. Like, a really hard time. I wonder if they have a time limit or a mercy rule." He turns back. "But we need to keep cheering. Who knows? He might surprise us." He cups his hands over his mouth. "Come on, Manolo! Get that pig! Soooeeee!"

Mole; (RichP) AC 18; HP 11; CMD 13
Monday August 30th, 2021 10:08:17 PM
Mole gains a twinkle in his eye when he sees Torry start to reach her limit. "Common, lass," he says, "lettin' loose once in a while is good fer ya."

DM Steve -- Lettin' loose once in a while is good fer ya. d20=1 ; d20=2 ; d20=3 ; d20=10 ; d3=3 ; d20=17 ; d20=13 ; d20=5 ; d20=6 ; d20=2 ; d20=14 ; d20=12 ; d20=2 ; d20=13 ; d20=1 ; d20=5 ; d20=9 ; d20=8 ; d20=3 ; d20=4 ; d20=15 ;
Monday August 30th, 2021 10:55:42 PM
Ash agrees with Mortimer’s assessment that they represent a lot of magical capability.
Fenfaran approaches Agatha, and attempts to shake her hand. ”Oh, go ahead and shake it,” Agatha mumbles to herself before accepting Fenfaran’s offer of a hand. She looks at him somewhat uncertainly when they finish. Seeing her this close, Fenfaran remembers a previous passing comment that Agatha “probably glows at night” -- she’s very pale.
Mortimer watches Manolo while continuing to talk with Ash.
Manolo considers giving up, but then decides to try stealth instead. It is, however, unclear to the DM what “heist” Manolo intends to stealthily do -- steal a pig from someone else? They're having no better luck.
Torryn continues her conversation with Mole, without more drinks. It sounds like the pig catching contest is winding up.
Mole is amused by Torryn’s relatively low tolerance for alcohol.
Evred discusses Manolo’s difficulties catching a pig with Loryn.
Loryn cleans himself and gives Manolo a cheer. Then he asks Evred about the others.

For the remainder of the contest, it’s as if the pigs have gotten greasier -- no one manages to lay a hand on one for long. But time runs out soon enough, to the disappointment of many in the pen and in the crowd.

Evred, Loryn, and Big Eddie have the option of keeping their pigs or accepting 5 gp in exchange for each. Big Eddie sells one pig back, but keeps #3 -- apparently taking quite a liking to that one. Pigs normally fetch about 3 gp.

The greased pig contest over, the crowd breaks up and heads to the other festivities. A number head to the other games, but most line up for the food that’s now been replenished. A small group of minstrels strikes up a tune to entertain those in line. The commons to the rear of the Half-Ogre is filled with tables made of wood planks set on barrels, covered with white clothes flapping in the breeze, weighed down with platters of meat, sweets, and roasted vegetables. Stone fire rings have been set up near the Tavern where more food continues to be grilled and roasted.

“Gonna clean those pigs, Stanley? You’ll need some of Minerva’s water to scrape off the grease,” someone jokes. Local knowledge DC 10 -- Highlight to display spoiler: {you have heard that a few nights ago Minerva started screaming while in the kitchen. Those nearby rushed in to see her covered in a viscous liquid that looked like water. She was gasping for air and only recovered after she and those who helped her literally scraped it off of her. Once off of her the liquid puddled like normal water. Although bizarre, it didn’t seem especially noteworthy at the time.}

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 9 AC:14 d20=2 ;
Tuesday August 31st, 2021 4:06:35 AM
In response to Mole's exhortation, Torryn smiled. "Oh, I agree. When I dance, well, I have to put everything into it. It just isn't really dancing if you don't do that. You know, the expression, the emotion, the whole power of the dance would be missing otherwise." Dancing was Torryn's 'drug' of choice. She heard the musicians warming up. Soon, soon she'd get to show Mole what 'letting loose' really was.

OOC: Local Knowledge failed abysmally.

Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 10/10 d20+4=17 ;
Tuesday August 31st, 2021 10:00:02 AM
Ash stands up at the end of the contest, and begins walking towards his friends. He hears the joke, and this time it seemed a little more odd than when he first heard it.

"Remember the odd water from the other night? The one that almost did minerva in? Think that has anything to do with this?" he asks the group.

Loryn Glitterfall; AC 13 HP 8 Dan K d20+2=8 ;
Tuesday August 31st, 2021 11:59:14 AM
"Good try Manolo. I think I'll be turning the pig into gold myself. No need for a pig and more importantly, nowhere to keep a pig"
Loryn exchanges his Pig for 5gp.

"Looks like everyone is lining up for some food. Shall we?"

As the group gets back together, Loryn rubs his nose about the story and water, "Fraid I don't recall that, but it does not sound normal or intended. Perhaps some Fey fun we should ask a bit more about."

"As poor Tory has been itching to hear some music and dance, let's let her get her groove on. Ash, you remeber the story, how about you provide an ice breaker intro to Minerva and we shall see if she can add some detail or thought on it?"

Assuming Ash agrees, Loryn heads out behind him to locate Minerva

Manolo (Michael A) - HP 10/10 AC 17 d20+6=11 ;
Tuesday August 31st, 2021 2:36:14 PM
Manolo explains the story to those who don't know.
He heads to eat some more food after the exhausting wrestling with the pigs.

Local Knowledge11

Evred Vost (Tanner) -- HP 16 | AC 15/11/13 | CMD 18 | F+5/R+2/W+0
Tuesday August 31st, 2021 10:59:39 PM
Evred exchanges his pig for 5gp, but not before whispering in its ear, "May you become delicious bacon."

He pockets his winnings and joins the group. "Yeppers, let's head over and get some food. And something alcoholic."

Scene 2: Party Crashers

DM Steve -- Lettin' loose once in a while is good fer ya.
Wednesday September 1st, 2021 12:19:38 AM
Evred takes the money and joins the others for food and drink.
Torryn talks to Mole about dancing. She hears the musicians and enjoys the anticipation.
Manolo goes looking for more food after recounting the story about the water.
Ash moves to join his friends. He is reminded of what happened to Minerva the other night.
Loryn consoles Manolo and claims the monetary prize before heading for the food. He suggests finding and talking to Minerva.
Fenfaran, Mole, and Mortimer are quiet.

The group finds food and a place to sit. Heorstan appears to collect his share of the prize from Evred, then promises most of it to the group and some others in the area in the form of drinks some other night. No need to buy tonight, though.

Before long, Torryn gets her chance to dance as the music gets into full swing. After eating, Loryn starts looking for Minerva. But the fun is short-lived. . .

People at the west side of the party start scattering, running to the north, south, and some to the east toward where the pig pen is. Soon, a deep voice bellowing in giant can be heard over the screams of the crowd, “Grog too uppity. Grog needs lesson.” The word “Grog” is easily understood, even by those who do not speak giant. Just then, two ten foot tall bipedal creatures with stumpy legs and thick apish arms come ambling forth, each menacingly swinging its massive fists. They continue to call out the name “Grog” as they look around, obviously searching for him.

Although the group can see the creatures well, the press of people trying to avoid them keeps anyone from acting until they are within seventy feet.

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 9 AC:14
Wednesday September 1st, 2021 5:05:36 AM
How dare they! Torryn was outraged. The music had only just started and now - NOW those stupid giants decide to show up and ruin everything. Well, she'd have to have words with them. This behaviour was entirely unacceptable. Her hair sparked and crackled to match the thunderous look that covered her face, but somehow didn't diminish her beauty. Whilst everyone else was seeking to get away from the marauding ogres, she advanced towards them muttering strange words as her fingers twitched as if eager to get her hands around the creatures' throats.

OOC: Torryn will invoke her magic and call forth her Mage Armour.

Lightning erupted around her, coruscating in a weave that sarked and flashed faintly as formed a protective cocoon. yet she wasn't finished. She continued to utter more strange words as she steadily advanced.

OOC: Next round she'll invoke her Shield Spell.

Fenfaran - (Iain) AC:18 - HP:11/11
Wednesday September 1st, 2021 8:00:08 AM
Fen apologizes to the pale woman and runs off to look at what's happening. Seeing trouble he casts Shillelagh on his staff and joins Torry.
"This is trouble right"?

Mole; (RichP) AC 18; HP 11; CMD 13
Wednesday September 1st, 2021 9:14:23 AM
Mole grabs his hammer and shield and is off running towards the cries of the citizenry. "Well lass, guess it was good you didn't have that drink. Looks like we're gonna be workin' off our buzz." he says to Torry.

Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 10/10
Wednesday September 1st, 2021 12:09:19 PM
Ash goes from fun loving to ready in the blink of an eye. He sees the others grabbing their weapons, and he takes a second to look at his fingers and hand before interlacing them and cracking the knuckles. He starts moving closer to the commotion, and his friends... keeping tabs on which ones are in in which area.

Zero Level
Dancing lights
mage hand
mending
read magic
predistignation
message
detect magic x2

1st Level
Magic Missile x2
Hold Portal
Summon Mon 1
Sleep
Enlarge Person

Loryn Glitterfall; AC 13 HP 8 Dan K d20+4=5 ;
Wednesday September 1st, 2021 2:05:48 PM
Loryn has a bite and looks across the field to the commotion. He turns pale, well pale-er "Are you guys nuts?" he asks incredulously. "Those are ogres. Angry Ogres. I signed up for fey, little tiny sheep hurting fey. " As all of his friends keep going, "You're really doing this?"

With a sigh, he casts a sidelong look at Fen, "Yes Fen. That is definitely trouble. Upper case T trouble."

Loryn rubs his nose, oh it was acting up all right. The Gnome gathers himself and hops up on the table and takes a few strides before yelling in giant
"Let's talk and then fight! Could place some wagers have a drink What do you say?"
Diplomacy 5

Spells
4-1st- Color Spray, Magic Weapon
x 0 - Detect Magic Read Magic, Mage Hand, Message

Gnome: 1/day Dancing Lights, Prestidigitation, Ghost Sound, Speak with Animals

Sorcerer Ray 7/ day 30' 1d6

Manolo (Michael A) - HP 10/10 AC 17
Wednesday September 1st, 2021 6:08:38 PM
'Are they having a brawl again', Manolo predicts.
He readies his dagger for a possible fight that might happen and goes to see what all the commotion is about.

Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.) - HP: 8/8. AC:13 d100=48 ;
Wednesday September 1st, 2021 8:45:39 PM
Mortimer had already forced and sweet-talked his way to the front of the lines. By the time the party crashers had arrived, he was ravenously devouring the rarest, bloodiest, cuts of meat he could get his grubby hands on. It disturbed a few locals watching him clean off a bone with such euphoria. However the ecstasy came swiftly to an end.

He grabs the rib of a partially eaten hatchet chop steak and starts to make his way to all the commotion. "How dare they ... this is MY time, it is!"

Mortimer wonders how he can use his newly found magical gifts. No, not the slightest idea!
(d100% = 48)

Will this rib bone pack a wallop? Nope, not at all! Do they speak Common at all ... probably not! Can he carry away the victims and give them a decent burial ... YES, yes he can!

Evred Vost (Tanner) -- HP 16 | AC 15/11/13 | CMD 18 | F+5/R+2/W+0
Wednesday September 1st, 2021 10:53:50 PM
Evred pulls out his sling, loads a stone, and stretches his head from side to side to pop his neck. "My lance would do more damage, but one swing from an ogre would put any of us in the grave. I plan on keeping my distance and peppering them with my sling."

DM Steve -- This is trouble right?
Wednesday September 1st, 2021 11:05:45 PM
Mortimer takes inventory -- no idea how to use magic, no serious weapon.
Loryn turns pale at what he sees, and questions whether his friends need to confront these things.
Torrynashkabbeth was outraged, and cast mage armor as she stormed towards the creatures.
Manolo readies his dagger.
Mole grabs his hammer and shield and joins his friends.
Fenfaran sees trouble and casts shillelagh.
Ash mentally prepares and starts moving in.
Evred pulls out a sling, hoping to fight from a distance.

Battle map -- at https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1_-TtyK3jAIYmtDVyD2PX2DzFNrKCNtuhRy7CTcapDhs/edit?usp=sharing%94

The crowd has all but scattered, leaving the friends standing as a ragged line across the field south of the living chess board. See rows 24 to 27 on the map for starting positions. The scale is 5’ per square. Permissions should be set so you can move yourself, or simply tell the DM the square you are moving to.

The ogres continue calling for Grog. breaking the games, furniture, and items they come upon with their bare hands as they impatiently wait. The little light show playing around Torryn seems to have caught the attention of one.

People are calling for Grog -- whose fighting ability is legendary around here, even if he just turned 111 -- and for the guard as they flee.

As the crowd scatters, Grog’s daughter rushes forward brandishing a very large meat cleaver, but Cerdic grabs her and pulls her back. Phaedra’s clear strong female voice can be heard directing the non-combatants away and calling anyone with weapons to stand with her against the ogres.

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 9 AC:14
Thursday September 2nd, 2021 4:57:26 AM
Torryn did not stop her advance on the creatures. She was angry. This was to be HER day, HER chance to shine and enjoy the thrill of dancing, but no; some petty rivalry was ruining it! As she moved forward she used her ire to fuel her magic. Another spell manifested itself as a coruscating disc of lightning leapt into being in front of her.

OOC: Shield spell. Now AC:22.

These ogres were going to leave, but not before apologising!

OOC: I cannot open the Battle Mat at all; so shall rely on the DM's interpretation of Torryn's position.

Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 10/10
Thursday September 2nd, 2021 1:33:46 PM
OOC: Maps not opening for me.

Ash moves up till he is within 110 feet of one of the ogres. He pulls out a rose petal, while his other hand starts tracing an image in the air. " Nagaziti veta tu, excesa encion...." he yells as he casts sleep at the one ogre.

Sleep on Ogre Dc 16

Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.) - HP: 8/8. AC:13 d20+7=25 ; d20+4=18 ;
Thursday September 2nd, 2021 8:59:38 PM
(ooc: No matter what I do, my computer has problems viewing the map. Both links, here and in email, don't work for me. The one from email will show up for about a second, but then darkens and gets covered up with error messages.)

Mortimer strolls forward without the slightest inkling of fear or care in the world (Bluff: 25). He appears completely confident, calm, cool and collected ... with a bit of a swagger. Though deep inside, he's trying his best not to evacuate his bowels. He even waves in greeting at the two giant-sized, party crashers. He holds his steak by the rib and casually takes another bite.

With all the bravado he can muster, he shouts to them in a friendly tone, "HEY ... ARE YOU FRIENDS OF GROG'S? WE WERE EXPECTING MORE GUESTS." (Diplomacy: 18)

He hopes Grog makes his presence known ... soon!

Manolo (Michael A) - HP 10/10 AC 17
Thursday September 2nd, 2021 9:03:59 PM
Manolo keeps advancing in line with the others while shouting, "Fall back, this might get dangerous", without thinking that shouting might alert the ogres on him.

OOC: up to DM decision where Manolo moves this time but generally same line / wave as the others.

DM Steve -- Fall back, this might get dangerous. d20+1=20 ; d20+5=19 ;
Thursday September 2nd, 2021 11:38:36 PM
Manolo warns partygoers away.
Mortimer walks up while talking with the ogres, trying to stall them until Grog shows up.
Ash casts sleep on an ogre. (Save 20 vs DC 16 -- it doesn’t notice)
Torryn continues her advance, now casting shield. Now at AC 22.
Evred, Loryn, Fenfaran, and Mole move but call no attention to themselves.

The group moves up towards the ogres, though Evred stays far enough away that the ogres won’t reach him if they decide to try.

One of the ogres blinks and sways, not expecting this outcome. The other moves up to Torryn and makes a wild swing that misses, glancing off her spells. It’s breath doesn’t miss, however -- these creatures are wasted. It smells like they’ve drunk more than all of the partygoers combined.

MAP LINK (if I’ve got the link sorted -- I have tested it this time)

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 9 AC:14 d20=4 ;
Friday September 3rd, 2021 4:22:40 AM
'Ugh, drink!' Thought Torryn. Conversely, that had the blow struck, she'd be lucky to survive, didn't. She was mad. These two had spoiled her opportunity to dance: something she'd been eagerly anticipating since the announcement of the festivities and these BRUTES dared to deny her!

"You're DRUNK." She said with as much disdain as she could muster - which under the circumstances, was considerable. "Maybe THIS will sober you up!"

Torryn attacked. She was fast. it was such a swift thing to do; to call the fey storm. Lightning leapt from her fingers. Sadly, she hadn't taken the time to focus her power and it lashed angrily to the left of the drunken giant.

OOC: Amend as needed, but hitting AC 7 is unlikely. The best she can hope for is 9, given the size modifier.
(1 of 6 Lightning Rays used.)

Mole; (RichP) AC 18; HP 11; CMD 13 d20+1=5 ;
Friday September 3rd, 2021 8:09:52 AM
AC 22 vs giants

Mole moves up next to Torry and swings his hammer at the knee of the ogre. The hammer swings short of its mark passing between the creatures legs.

"Lass, keep yur cool. Let's knock this thing down t'gether."

Loryn Glitterfall; AC 13 HP 8 Dan K d20+8=17 ;
Friday September 3rd, 2021 9:25:18 AM
Loryn is simply stunned, they were attacking the ogres. there is brave, there is heroic and then there in not quite sane and the gnome was quickly putting several of his new friends into the last category. At least Mole was a dwarf, they're raised to hate ogres.

Loryn moves closer, his magic was far shorter in range than Ash's Sleep spell [Spell craft 17]
Move 30'

Spells
4-1st- Color Spray, Magic Weapon
x 0 - Detect Magic Read Magic, Mage Hand, Message

Gnome: 1/day Dancing Lights, Prestidigitation, Ghost Sound, Speak with Animals

Sorcerer Ray 7/ day 30' 1d6

Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 10/10 d4+1=5 ;
Friday September 3rd, 2021 1:05:33 PM
ash grunts under his breath that the ogre isn't effected by the sleep spell. " Exavati, inchi excelcior imagani..." he whispers, as his finger moves through the sky ending with a thrusting point at the ogre. A bolt strikes forward hitting the ogre Torryn was attacking. (Magic Missile 5 dmg)

Zero Level
Dancing lights
mage hand
mending
read magic
predistignation
message
detect magic x2

1st Level
Magic Missile
Hold Portal
Summon Mon 1
Enlarge Person

Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.) - HP: 8/8. AC:13 d100=75 ; d20-1=6 ;
Friday September 3rd, 2021 5:17:47 PM
He had just began his con, and it was going better than expected ... then the sweet, gentle companions, he’s just beginning to become acquainted with, suddenly start drawing weapons like hardened, street thugs. “Well now! It’s all knives out, is it?”

It’s unfortunate that all he has is a rib bone and a rusty boot dagger. He quickly weighs his options. He has to try and cast a spell.

“I can do this. Time to bring the onions,” he tells himself forcefully as he stomps closer (30ft). He concentrates and starts thrusting his hands out and wiggling his fingers in the direction of the closest ogre. (d100% = 75%, fail) Nothing happens! The only thing that’s wounded is his pride ... which is really beginning to tick him off.

In frustration, he throws the rib bone at the ogre instead.

(Attack on Ogre: HitsAC: 6 with a bone, for no damage!)

Fenfaran - (Iain) AC:18 - HP:11/11 d20+4=19 ; d8+4=5 ;
Friday September 3rd, 2021 5:25:38 PM
Fen moves 5 ft and holding his staff like a club (2H) he swings it at the drunkard (attack:19 for 5 dmg).

DM Steve -- Time to bring the onions. d20+5=19 ; d3=2 ;
Saturday September 4th, 2021 10:37:25 AM
Torrynashkabbeth heaps scorn on the soused monsters, and tries to strike one with lightning. The bolt goes astray.
Ash is annoyed his first spell didn’t work, and quickly casts another. A magic missile strikes the nearest ogre.
Mortimer realizes his companions have ended any chance of talking their way out of this. Lacking other options, he throws the remains of his dinner at the beasts.
Loryn moves in, waiting until he is in spell-casting range to do more. He concludes his companions are not all sane. He ends 25’ from the nearest ogre.
Fenfaran swings is staff, connecting solidly.
Mole steps up and swings his hammer, but misses.
Manolo and Evred continue to size up the situation.

The ogre fighting Torryn, Mole, and Fenfaran howls his frustration. Whether that’s from being wounded, not finding Grog, or being interfered with is anyone’s guess. It swings at Torryn with a fist and once again finds she is well-protected. Maybe that’s what’s frustrating it. . . She doesn't look protected.

The other ogre staggers towards the group, not making swift progress. As it comes, it shouts, “Menneskelige mennesker! Hvor er Grog!”

Phaedra appears at the edge of the crowd, loading a heavy crossbow.

=====
Ogre 1 -- AC: 17, 10 HP damage
Ogre 2 -- no damage
MAP LINK

Mole; (RichP) AC 18; HP 11; CMD 13 d20+1=17 ; d20+9=22 ;
Saturday September 4th, 2021 2:27:48 PM
"Anyone know what the dang thing is shout'n?" He says. "Fras Sèididh" He continues as a blinding flash appears in the face of the ogre.

Casting defensively DC22 (need DC15)

Casting Flare, fortitude save negates; DC 14 (A dazzled creature takes a –1 penalty on attack rolls and sight-based Perception checks.)

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 9 AC:14 d20=5 ; d6=2 ;
Saturday September 4th, 2021 3:22:22 PM
He'd tried to hit her! Not only had the stupid thing ruined her chance to dance, it sought to compound matters by attacking her! Well, two could play at that game.

Torryn quickly called upon her innate fey essence and unleashed more lightning at the creature. It was so big! how could she possibly miss?

OOC: Actually amounted to 10 this time. In theory, I believe that hits as the bolt ignores physical armour, the Ogres is drunk and as it's large there's a bonus of +1 to hit If it does hit, it inflicts a mighty ...... 2

Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.) - HP: 8/8. AC:13 d100=5 ; d3=2 ; d4=4 ; d20+3=12 ; d6+1=5 ;
Sunday September 5th, 2021 7:38:45 PM
(d100 = 5%, excellent! d3=2, d4=4, interesting.)

To the casual observer, Mortimer appears quite frustrated with himself. He's breathing heavy, his teeth are gnashed with anger. It doesn't bode well with him that he is the amateur and blunderer of this group of professional killers.

To the keen observer, what little shadows are currently around Mortimer, including his own, appear to be coalescing into his body, like water into a sponge. His hairs and bumps on his skin begin to rise as a coldness envelops his body. A hint of frost whirls on his breath.

(ooc: He moved 30ft closer last round, but wasn't moved on the map. This round he is moving from Q19 to O19 .)

Mortimer moves forward 10ft and he raises his hand, pointing at the ogre that's fighting with Torryn, Mole and Fen. A coruscating ray of black energy springs forth from his hand at the drunken giant.

(Mortimer unwittingly casts Ray of Enfeeblement at the first Ogre. Range Touch Attack: 12. Range: 25ft. Fort Save: 15 for half damage. Effect: -5 Strength penalty to Ogre.)

Mortimer looks at his hand in surprise and exclaims, "Bloody hells ... that wasn't ice!"

Manolo (Michael A) - HP 10/10 AC 17
Sunday September 5th, 2021 8:16:24 PM
Manolo moves further than his comrades anticipating either an attack by the ogre or perhaps a possible flanking and stealth attack later on.

Action: Manolo moves to V 14

Fenfaran - (Iain) AC:18 - HP:11/11 d20+4=15 ;
Sunday September 5th, 2021 10:51:29 PM
Fen swings and misses

Evred Vost (Tanner) -- HP 16 | AC 15/11/13 | CMD 18 | F+5/R+2/W+0 d20+6=12 ; 3d8+18=37 ;
Sunday September 5th, 2021 11:43:19 PM
Evred draws his lance and rushes forward into a charge. He lowers the rip and aims straight for the ogre in the rear.

OOC: Charge in a straight line, attack rear ogre with lance when I am I'm space N12. I have Ride-by Attack and Spirited Charge. End charge in space J4.

Attack 12
Damage 37

DM Steve -- Anyone know what the dang thing is shout'n? d20+6=9 ; d20+5=16 ; d4+5=9 ; d4+5=6 ; d3=2 ; d20+2=15 ; d20+9=25 ; d10=8 ;
Monday September 6th, 2021 10:46:09 PM
Torrynashkabbeth sends another bolt of lightning at the ogre attacking her.
Fenfaran swings but misses.
Evred charges past the far ogre, trying to score with his lance from a distance. Unfortunately, he misses.
Mole casts a flare at the nearer ogre, catching it square in one eye.
Manolo moves strategically. He may be concerned with other goings on bring an ogre close to him.
Mortimer somehow causes a magical effect to happen. He’s surprised to find it wasn’t what he thought might happen. The ogre fighting his friends looses some of it’s oomph.
Loryn and Ash urge folks away from the area.

Evred may not have realized that the ogres’ long arms give them reach as well. As he passes the ogre, he is slammed by a meaty fist for 9 damage. He ends up out of the ogre’s range. Phaedra fires her crossbow at the ogre nearer the chessboard, hitting it squarely in the chest. It forgets Evred, and goes trotting towards Phaedra and the crowd.

The other ogre keeps on attacking Torryn. It seems to have a grudge against her in particular. Enfeebled and dazzled, it doesn’t connect.

=====
Ogre 1 -- AC: 17, 12 HP damage, dazzled / enfeebled (-5 STR)
Ogre 2 -- AC: 17, 8 HP damage
MAP LINK

Evred Vost (Tanner) -- HP 16 | AC 15/11/13 | CMD 18 | F+5/R+2/W+0 d20+8=18 ; 3d8+18=33 ;
Monday September 6th, 2021 11:58:54 PM
Evred charges the ogre straight south of him, bringing his lance to bear.

HP: 7/16

OOC: Charge to J15 (not moving through and provoking another AoO)
Attack 18 (charging and flanking)
Damage 33

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 9 AC:14 d20=17 ; d6=6 ;
Tuesday September 7th, 2021 5:01:30 AM
It was so infuriating. Her magic simply wasn't as potent as she needed it to be. Still, the giant had ruined her day, it was only right and proper that she ruin his. She moved to her left (5') seeking to flank the brute. She vaguely recalled her father mentioning some advantage to be derived from such a tactic. She was far from certain what that was, but it certainly seemed a very good idea to keep the drunken creature moving, weaving and preferably NOT hitting her. At least her magical defences were holding true.

One more light sparkled and shimmered acros the ends of her long hair as she called forth magic. With a graceful flick of the wrist, she sent another fine bolt lancing towards the ogre's head.

OOC: 17+4. A hit and a solid one :)

The bolt struck true. The lightning briefly made the ogre's lank hair stand on end.

OOC: A full 6 points of damage!

Mole; (RichP) AC 18; HP 11; CMD 13 d20+1=11 ;
Tuesday September 7th, 2021 7:16:56 AM
Mole changes back to his warhammer. He swings at the knee again, but the swaying of the drunk ogre makes it hard for Mole's unskilled weapon to reach its mark.

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 9 AC:14
Tuesday September 7th, 2021 1:50:27 PM
OOC: 11? Might actually hit with an 11 :) Got to love those Dwarves :)

Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 10/10 d4+1=2 ;
Tuesday September 7th, 2021 2:33:08 PM
Ash repeats the same words and unleashes another magic missle.

2 dmg

Fenfaran - (Iain) AC:18 - HP:11/11 d20+4=9 ;
Tuesday September 7th, 2021 4:24:16 PM
Fen moves 5 ft and misses again. He's new to all this fighting and not sure...

Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.) - HP: 8/8. AC:13 d100=85 ; d20+3=18 ; d4=2 ;
Tuesday September 7th, 2021 7:26:56 PM
(d100 = 85%, fail)

Mortimer can feel his arcane energy course through the ogre. It was odd, the feeling was indescribable. He didn't know what it had done to the Ogre, but it felt mildly intoxicating to have power over someone else. Then it faded, just as quickly as it came. He knew, whatever it was, it had already expired.

(Ray of Enfeeblement's duration is only 1 round per level.)

He tries to reproduce the same effect, but his magic sparks and fizzles. "Come On NOW! Bring the THUNDER!" Discontent with his performance, he draws and throws his dagger at the same ogre.

(Range Attack. Hit AC: 18. Damage: 2 points.)

Manolo (Michael A) - HP 10/10 AC 17
Tuesday September 7th, 2021 7:32:45 PM
Manolo doesn't feel confident enough to aim at such distance....he recalls the last time he tried to attack in a battle setting.....it didn't end up very well.
He moves closer to the battle.

Action: Move to Q14

Evred Vost (Tanner) -- HP 16 | AC 15/11/13 | CMD 18 | F+5/R+2/W+0
Tuesday September 7th, 2021 10:54:39 PM
OOC: check

DM Steve -- Bring the THUNDER! d20+6=26 ; d20+6=16 ; 2d4+3=7 ; d20+5=19 ; d4+5=9 ;
Tuesday September 7th, 2021 10:58:47 PM
Mortimer can’t figure out what he did to the ogre, and can’t repeat it, so he throws a dagger.
Torrynashkabbeth calls forth another blast of lightning.
Manolo moves closer to the battle.
Evred turns and charges the other ogre.
Mole swings at the ogre, but misses.
Fenfaran takes a step for better vantage, but still misses with his swing.
Ash releases another magic missile.
Loryn hangs back.

Hit by two magicks, a dagger, and a lance, the ogre fighting a sizeable portion of the party slumps over, motionless.

Phaedra drops her crossbow and draws her falchion, taking a step to be able to use it. She slashes the ogre near her, opening another wound. Meanwhile, the ogre slams her with a solid blow as well.

Back towards the inn, the crowd starts shouting that Grog is coming.

=====
Ogre 1 -- Dead
Ogre 2 -- AC: 17, 15 HP damage
Phaedra -- 9 HP damage

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 9 AC:14
Wednesday September 8th, 2021 6:34:27 AM
Torryn stopped. The object of her ire lay unmoving at her feet. She'd killed it. She stood there, stupidly, unmoving. Killed. She'd taken the creature's life. That she hadn't struck the killing blow didn't register. Her temper had overtaken her and now a drunken brute lay dead.

She breathed. Small flashes of lightning flickered amongst her hair. Looking up she saw that the other ogre was still very much alive. She didn't want to have to slay that one too, but came to the realisation that the powerful giants could have very easily taken the lives of many innocents had not she and her new friends acted so swiftly. Perhaps her temper wasn't all bad. Perhaps. She still couldn't help but think that cooler heads might have brought about a better solution.

What would the other ogre do now? Under the influence of alcohol, it's morale was likely to hold. Maybe it too would be seized by a fit of temper to rival her own. That wasn't good. She knew enough of her own disposition to realise that raging tempers rarely achieved a desired outcome. Her lessons with Agratha suddenly took on a whole new significance. Her father was right: she did need moe control.

She breathed again- deeper, longer breaths. The time for analysis and possible recriminations would come later. There was still a very clear and present danger. Facing the other Ogre Torryn positioned her lightning shield for maximum defence and started to make her way deliberately towards it.

Mole; (RichP) AC 18; HP 11; CMD 13
Wednesday September 8th, 2021 7:25:16 AM
Something seemed off to Mole. Their actions seemed out of character for the mindless brutes he was use to. They were drunk already and coming into town during a celebration for Grog.

Mole whispers a few soft sounding syllables and stablizes the ogre. He doesn't know if it's still among the living, but act first learn later was often required in this situation.

Mole shouts out "Don't kill it. Keep it away from the town but keep it alive. They were shouting something about Grog. No one here speaks giant?"

Loryn Glitterfall; AC 13 HP 8 Dan K
Wednesday September 8th, 2021 7:58:34 AM
Loryn moves closer to the Ogre, though he is unsure why his legs were disregarding his brain. "I speak giant Mole, but the giants are not really speaking."

Loryn, shouts, "I'm gonna see if he wants to step ack and give this up!"

Then in Giant "/Hey there! take a step back and we slow this down. Grog is on his way!"

Spells
4-1st- Color Spray, Magic Weapon
x 0 - Detect Magic Read Magic, Mage Hand, Message

Gnome: 1/day Dancing Lights, Prestidigitation, Ghost Sound, Speak with Animals

Sorcerer Ray 7/ day 30' 1d6

Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 10/10
Wednesday September 8th, 2021 8:17:20 AM
Ash pulls out a pinch of powdered iron, and begins chanting... "Meyki.... meyko.... escopalotsy enterlacago...." . He unleashes an Enlarge person spell towards Phaedra.

Zero Level - Dancing lights, mage hand, mending, read magic, predistignation, message, detect magic x2
1st Level - Hold Portal,Summon Mon 1

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 9 AC:14
Wednesday September 8th, 2021 10:53:56 AM
Well, that was impressive! Thought Torryn. Her magic couldn't do anything as astounding as that. Yet what was also equally as impressive - at least to her, was Mole's sagacity. A sense of relief flooded through Torryn as she saw the Dwarf tend to the fallen ogre. Now all that needed to happen was for the other ogre to heed reason, for surely that was what Loryn was asking of it.

She felt herself most fortunate to be in the company of such clever and calm individuals. Calm was not something that she'd ever recently been accused of possessing.

Manolo (Michael A) - HP 10/10 AC 17
Wednesday September 8th, 2021 7:36:17 PM
Manolo doesn't move forward deciding to wait instead.
'No fighting now', he hopes, wishing that the battle will stop.

Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.) - HP: 8/8. AC:13 d20=11 ;
Wednesday September 8th, 2021 8:42:02 PM
The ground shakes from the fallen ogre. 'That was unexpected,' he thinks. "Gorblimey! The bludger shoulda taken more of a beatin' than that," he mutters in a low tone. He wonders if his magic hurt the ogre more than he expected. He walks over to the body and retrieves his dagger from his hide. He observes the wound his dagger made ... checking to see if it still bleeds like an individual with a still-beating heart.

(Heal Check: 11)

If the wound continues to bleed like a living person, he will attempt to cover the wound and announces to the others that the giant may still be alive.

Evred Vost (Tanner) -- HP 16 | AC 15/11/13 | CMD 18 | F+5/R+2/W+0 d20+8=13 ; 3d8+18=32 ;
Wednesday September 8th, 2021 11:29:37 PM
"Hesitation is death."

Evred wheels about and charges the ogre to the east.

HP: 7/16

Attack 13 (charging and flanking)
Damage 32

OOC: Oof, these rolls...

DM Steve -- Hey there! take a step back and we slow this down. d20+5=16 ; d20+6=26 ; d20+6=26 ; 4d4+6=17 ; 4d20+5=64 ; d20+5=14 ;
Wednesday September 8th, 2021 11:45:42 PM
Mortimer retrieves his dagger and checks whether the fallen ogre is still alive.
Torrynashkabbeth feels some remorse at her first kill, but realizes there’s still another ogre to be dealt with.
Manolo wishes the battle would stop.
Ash casts an enlarge person spell at Phaedra.
Loryn tries to talk the other ogre down, at Mole’s urging.
Evred wheels and charges the other ogre, narrowly missing.
Mole worries that the ogres are not acting like they should. He tries to stabilize the downed one, and calls out not to kill the other.
Fenfaran watches.

Mortimer and Mole determine that the fallen ogre is truly dead. It had already been bloodied before taking so many simultaneous attacks, and a charging centaur does serious damage.

Phaedra, feeling the beginnings of an unexpected spell, resists. Whatever she was afraid might be happening must inspire her, though, because she lands the most perfect blow. Meanwhile the besotted ogre flails about without touching her before it, too, crumbles.

The battle is over. People crowd back around -- although maintaining some distance from the bodies.

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 9 AC:14
Thursday September 9th, 2021 4:33:03 AM
Torryn stood a little apart from the others and farther from the returning crowd in general. She wasn't certain if she could quickly nullify her magic and felt it best to keep her lightning protections away from others.

Both ogres were dead. She wasn't really sure what to make of that. Truth be told, her contribution to the fall of but one of them had been minimal. Yet contribute she had. She stood and briefly pondered. There was no undoing it. So there was no point in worrying. Worrying generally changed nothing about a situation. So she simply waited; waited to see what the consequences would be. She did though, have to concede that whoever had picked Evred to supplement the guard certainly knew their onions! She highly doubted that her lightning fuelled defences would put up much resistance to his lance propelled at a charge.

OOC: 3 of 6 Bolts used. 2 of 4 1st level spells used.

Mole; (RichP) AC 18; HP 11; CMD 13 d20+8=13 ;
Thursday September 9th, 2021 9:17:03 AM
Mole looks as the second ogre falls. The threat was ended. He looks around to see if any were wounded in the exchange. If none are hurt, he heads back to the tavern.

Before leaving he says a prayer to the earth mother.

Perception DC 13

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 9 AC:14
Thursday September 9th, 2021 9:33:14 AM
Watching Mole head deliberately back to the tavern Torryn concluded that it did indeed seem to be a most appropriate course of action. However, her feet didn't move. The ogres had been intoxicated. The smell was unmistakable. She lacked Mole's incredible constitution and had already had one drink. That, she decided, would have to suffice.

Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 10/10
Thursday September 9th, 2021 12:52:28 PM
Ash smirks to himself. They passed this test. A rag tag group, just took out two ogres. Sure they were inebriated, and sure they had help... but they still were all intact, and took out the ogres. That was a win in his book.

Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.) - HP: 8/8. AC:13
Thursday September 9th, 2021 1:11:01 PM
Mortimer cleans off his dagger and places it back into his boot. He notices Mole praying and the heaviness in the expressions of everyone around them. At moments like this, he thinks it's best just to stay quiet. He usually attempts humor to deflect the gravity of the situation, but he's done that enough to learn when it's inappropriate. Besides, these two killings, which he definitely had a hand in, with witnesses all around, could be trouble for him and his new friends.

Mortimer has experience a lot of death in his "social circles" over the years. He's learned to detach himself from the horrors of death. This disassociation usually comes across as a distant or unfocused gaze.

When Mole finishes his prayer, Mortimer calmly asks, "Mole, who do you pray to? Could you put in a good word for the rest of us?"

Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.) - HP: 8/8. AC:13
Thursday September 9th, 2021 2:41:50 PM
As Mortimer begins to step away from the former giant, he notices the bone he threw. He binds down to pick it up.

"Ahh, there you are. I'm not done with you."

He brushes it off and takes another bite of whatever meat is still attached.

Loryn Glitterfall; AC 13 HP 8 Dan K
Thursday September 9th, 2021 4:30:57 PM
"Guess we are not talking to find out the why's" he comments to himself as the other ogre falls dead. the gnome finishes walking up to the last ogre. Maybe one of them had a note or some information that would help make sense of this. Sure a pair of ogre might try a quick smash and grab, but these two were drunk and easily could see they were vastly outnumbered and they were just yelling for Grog.

"It just makes no sense at all." He says aloud as he goes though it. "Phaedra, yyou agree right? I mean ogre are not bright, but this is well beyond dumb."

The gnome begins trying to go through any stuff, especially bags which may contain a note or clue as to what these doofuses were getting on at

Perception Take 20

Spells
4-1st- Color Spray, Magic Weapon
x 0 - Detect Magic Read Magic, Mage Hand, Message

Gnome: 1/day Dancing Lights, Prestidigitation, Ghost Sound, Speak with Animals

Sorcerer Ray 7/ day 30' 1d6

Fenfaran - (Iain) AC:18 - HP:11/11
Thursday September 9th, 2021 6:46:04 PM
Fen continues to watch

Manolo (Michael A) - HP 10/10 AC 17
Thursday September 9th, 2021 11:12:02 PM
Manlolo is speechless.
The ogres are dead, the party took them out.
He manages to mutter "Gragul"

DM Steve -- Ahh, there you are. I'm not done with you. d20=11 ;
Thursday September 9th, 2021 11:17:31 PM
Torrynashkabbeth takes in the situation. Then she thinks about getting a drink, but decides not to.
Fenfaran watches.
Mortimer worries that having been involved in this fight could lead to trouble. He asks Mole to put in a good word with his god. Then he finds some food.
Loryn still feels something odd happened. He looks for clues that might explain it. He sees that the second ogre is dying, not dead yet. Both ogres also have sacks.
Ash is feeling good about this group.
Manolo is speechless.
Mole says a prayer and looks to see if anyone was hurt. He thinks about getting a drink. Phaedra and Evred were wounded in the fight but are recovering quickly.
Evred is quiet.

Where the ogres entered the field they did a lot of damage to the place -- fences, chairs and tables, party games . . . Very few people were hurt. The most notable of these is Cerdic, who took an elbow to the face while he was restraining his wife Valma from rushing to attack the ogres. Most folks ran.

Phaedra approaches the group. ”Thank you for your help. Evred, I’m glad to see you have such resolute friends. Why don’t you lot claim what you want of their belongings as a reward?”

Grog also approaches, carrying a shield and a club. He is followed by the crowd. ”Yes, thank you. I should have been here sooner.” He gets close to Phaedra and lowers his voice, but people nearby can still hear, “I would like your help inside when things are done out here.” He then turns to reassure the crowd and look at the bodies. He seems a bit puzzled by what he sees.

”Grog, you must introduce me to these people,” a elderly woman says from the edge of the crowd. She is introduced as Donna Kimberly, a friend from Grog’s adventuring days, and is eager to talk to the heroes of the town about joining the Woldian League of Adventurers.

Evred Vost (Tanner) -- HP 16 | AC 15/11/13 | CMD 18 | F+5/R+2/W+0
Thursday September 9th, 2021 11:45:17 PM
Evred lopes over, securing his lance back into the harness. "Did we find anything on the bodies? Any charms or totems? We may be able to identify their tribe based on what fetishes they wear." He loves oks toward the tavern. "Grog will be here soon. Hopefully he knows something about them. I just really, really hope the dark fey didn't trick these ogres into attacking us. These 'pranks' keep escalating."

Evred Vost (Tanner) -- HP 16 | AC 15/11/13 | CMD 18 | F+5/R+2/W+0
Thursday September 9th, 2021 11:57:13 PM
OOC: Ninja'ed

"Thank you, Phaedra. It is my pleasure." He motions toward the carcasses. "Grog, do you recognize anything from these ogres?"

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 9 AC:14
Friday September 10th, 2021 5:08:20 AM
At Phaedra's invitation, Torryn unhurriedly made her way to the nearest sack. She was in in no hurry to displace anyone else who was more eager to ascertain its contents, but squatted smoothly to peer and await whatever was withdrawn from it.

When Donna spoke, Torryn's head jerked up. Was she in trouble, again? She had sort of led the advance against the ogres. It had been stupid in hindsight. She was just a little half-elf with barely any magical ability at all. She did however, have a nasty temper. It was something that she was working to address. She didn't stand, but remained still waiting to hear the next words.

Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 10/10
Friday September 10th, 2021 10:21:01 AM
Ash moves up to the dead ogres. Part of his was in shock that he was able to be part of a killing, but the other realizes this group took care of the ogres relatively easy.

he watches as the items are check from the bags, if anything sticks out and a detect magic is needed, he is there to assist.

Loryn Glitterfall; AC 13 HP 8 Dan K d20=2 ;
Friday September 10th, 2021 3:51:15 PM
The gnome twitches his nose and thinks for a moment and decides, "This one is only mostly dead." and with that proclamation, he does what he has seen others do and plugs a bleeding hole with his hand. "Little help here if you please?" he calls out to anyone about. Success is not what he would call the result.
[Heal check 2]

Loryn catches the look on Grog's face as it mirrored his own going over the events and neve one to shy away he asks "Grog? You look a bit perplexed by these 2. Do you recognize them or something. Drunken suicide by town militia not in their acts of normalcy?"

Spells
4-1st- Color Spray, Magic Weapon
x 0 - Detect Magic Read Magic, Mage Hand, Message

Gnome: 1/day Dancing Lights, Prestidigitation, Ghost Sound, Speak with Animals

Sorcerer Ray 7/ day 30' 1d6

Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.) - HP: 8/8. AC:13 d100=60 ;
Friday September 10th, 2021 7:39:47 PM
He eyes the approach of Grog and others as he finishes off the last morsel of flesh from the bone. He casts the bone aside and prepares for the inevitable accusations for the killing of these ogres. Mortimer would have made a run for it, but there are way too many witnesses. Besides he's in no mood for a prolonged chase and eventual beat down. He holds his arms out, expecting to be shackled and hauled away for the crime. He doubts he'll be locked up for very long, hard labor for certain, but they were ogres after all. Of course, if they were Grog's family, then he hopes his execution is quick. He becomes completely stupefied after hearing Grog's response.

Mortimer doesn't know how to react. He stands there frozen in place; completely gobsmacked! His thoughts racing, he tries to make sense of it all. To himself he ponders, 'You mean to tell me that we are forgiven for killing these giants and now we can rob them where they lay? The Magic Class ARE truly a privileged folk!' The thought makes begin to snicker; chortle even. He covers his mouth to keep from bursting out in hysterical laughter. This has to be the punchline to his joke of a life.

As the young sorcerer regains his composure, he finds himself alone. The rest have already left him to pick over the bodies. He decides to join them. "Check their teeth for gold fillings, we should."

Manolo (Michael A) - HP 10/10 AC 17
Friday September 10th, 2021 10:24:10 PM
Manolo is puzzled but waits for Grog to answers all the questions instead of asking the same questions.

Fenfaran - (Iain) AC:18 - HP:11/11 d20+5=22 ;
Saturday September 11th, 2021 4:18:19 AM
Fen sees people trying to help the nearly dead ogre and has a go.
(Casts Guidance ~if there is time. Heal check 22 (21 if not)). He still has some good berries (3) which he passes round.

DM Steve -- I just really, really hope the dark fey didn't trick these ogres into attacking us.
Saturday September 11th, 2021 1:15:58 PM
Mortimer assumes they are in trouble when Grog approaches, then his mood swings hard when he listens to what people are saying. He joins the others looking over the bodies.
Ash helps check things out, ready to detect magic if needed.
Mole
Manolo waits for Grog to answer the others’ questions.
Fenfaran stabilizes the dying ogre, but it is still unconscious. He offers goodberries to anyone who is hurt.
Torrynashkabbeth starts to look in a sack and wonders if they are in trouble.
Loryn realizes one of the ogres is still alive, and attempts to help it. He asks Grog why they would attack.
Evred asks whether anything that can help identify the ogres’ tribe is on the bodies. He asks Grog what he notices.

Going through the sacks, the group finds several rocks, half of a skull stained purple on the inside, 80 platinum pieces, a masterwork dagger, 20 masterwork arrows, 10 masterwork crossbow bolts, a scroll, and a breastplate. From the gunk encrusting it, the breastplate may have been used by the ogres as a soup bowl or plate. Ash notes the scroll is magic, but does not have time to study it right off to determine what it is.

Phaedra is far from upset with the actions of the group. Had they been hurt, no doubt she would fuss that they were foolish, but after succeeding in stopping the threat she is ready to treat them as heros. Evred being part of the guard, she is less surprised than she might have been otherwise.

Grog knows the tribe these ogres are from -- they’ve come after him every so often, but not so much recently. He left that tribe, and slew it’s chief when they tried to reclaim him. That was ninety-some years ago. They would send a raiding party every now and then in some attempt to restore their pride. It hasn’t happened for a long time, and he doesn’t think it’s what happened this time -- there are too few ogres, and they don’t have their greatclubs. Also, the drinking usually comes after the raid, not before. The chiefs are at least that capable.

Donna tries to persuade members of the group to join the Woldian League of Adventurers. The group exists to foster the excellent behavior and sterling reputations of adventuring groups, to offer adventurers centers for training and information, and to help those in need to find an adventuring group to aid them. Although there is not a chapter in Windholm, Donna can swear in anyone who is interested. (OOC: For anyone interested, Donna explains the information provided in the link.)

While these discussions are going on, Cerdic and Valma try to get the party started again, but don’t have a lot of success. People are talking about the times of trouble starting again. Grog seems to think they may be right. Although he tries to answer the groups questions and also to keep the party going, he also doesn’t get far from Phaedra.

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 9 AC:14
Saturday September 11th, 2021 1:16:06 PM
Torryn looked up to see the others helping. It actually made her feel better. it seemed that they felt the same way about this that she did. Fenfaren was particularly new to such things.

"You okay, Fenny? Honestly, it's not normally like this here." She hoped to ease the seemingly nervous beast-boy's anxiety. In truth, she was easing her own as much as his.

Fenfaran - (Iain) AC:18 - HP:11/11
Sunday September 12th, 2021 6:22:39 AM
"Honestly? I'm not sure what just happened, nor am I sure what to think". He sees his own frayed edges mirrored in Torryn and hugs her leg for a few seconds.
Fen doesn't grasp the WLA thing ~ despite explanations (so as much as the power up would be good for him) he declines.

He looks down at the dead ogre and tears well up in his eyes. He wipes them away and finds a shady area to sit and watch.
What a strange world he'd found himself in.

Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.) - HP: 8/8. AC:13 d100=11 ; d3=1 ; d4=1 ;
Sunday September 12th, 2021 7:02:46 PM
Mortimer has no shortage of disbelief on this red letter day. He finds out he is a sorcerer. He wins an expensive bottle of top shelf hooch. He devoured his weight in meat. He's forgiven of a killing and openly gets to rob their corpses of all their treasure .... and what a MAGNIFICENT treasure!

"Must be coppin' a full gigglemug, I am. 'Cause my face is hurtin'." And he was, he was grinning ear to ear, showing off an unfortunate collection of jagged, misshapen and discolored teeth.*

(*Mortimer, if he were cleaned up, would be a rather attractive, young man. However, his smile would completely betray these qualities; something he is keenly aware of. In this moment of unbridled delight, those unused facial muscles, responsible for a smile, are getting a workout.)

"Where would bludgers like these get treasure like this?" He holds the dagger in his open hand and its balance is perfect. "I've never held a blade as fine as this." He asks the dagger directly, "How didya find yourself with these two brutes?"

He carefully places the dagger back down and takes hold of the skull. "Now this is something they would have." He carefully inspects the skull, trying to determine whose head it came from. What are you ... human, hobbit or lich?"** He gives the purple interior a sniff.

(** Don't read anything this, I randomly chose a page out of the Monster Manual and got a Lich, lol!)

Mortimer then asks, "Is there a way to see magic; if any? I did it before, but I thought it was the alcohol."

(Pure Dumb Luck Casting: d100=11% success. d3=1 Cantrip. d4=1 First cantrip on list = Detect Magic!. Mortimer casts Detect Magic! Range: 60ft. Area: cone-shaped emanation. Duration: Concentration, up to 1 minute.)

Mole; (RichP) AC 18; HP 11; CMD 13 d20+8=27 ;
Sunday September 12th, 2021 7:17:55 PM
Perception DC 27

Seeing that no one was injured more that scrapes and bruises, he starts back towards the tavern again. He grabs a drink and comes back outside.

He didn't like crowds. So from a safe distance, he watches and listens to the coming and goings of the spectators, Grog, Donna, and the others that assisted in the town's defense.

Truth was, he wasn't complete trusting of men. Their short lives made them rush through life; and they were quick to point fingers at others to blame for whatever thing they didn't understand. Mole had seen that in the relatively few years he had been on the surface. His caution made him seem standoffish, and his brash and straight forwardness seemed rude. When in reality, these qualities were just dwarven nature.

Manolo (Michael A) - HP 10/10 AC 17 d20+6=18 ;
Sunday September 12th, 2021 8:17:11 PM
"I am interested in joining the Woldian League of Adventurers. ", Manolo says expressing his interest.
Manolo goes directly near Grog later on trying to find some more information about this whole situation.
'killing ogre chief, attracting troubles every few years....what is the deal with him (Grog)', Manolo thinks.
"Grog if you have time....later....I would like to hear some of your stories and tales", Manolo manages to say while thinking there is more than meets the eye with Grog.

Local knowledge 18

Manolo (Michael A) - HP 10/10 AC 17
Sunday September 12th, 2021 8:18:20 PM
OOC: Manolo tries to gather more information about Grog and perhaps about his history.
He also proposes to him to hear from him later about his stories and tales.

Evred Vost (Tanner) -- HP 16 | AC 15/11/13 | CMD 18 | F+5/R+2/W+0
Sunday September 12th, 2021 11:59:08 PM
Evred is keen to join the WLA and enthusiastically listens to Donna explain the recruitment process.

He listens to Grog, nodding slowly as he absorbs the information. "Do you have any ideas? Perhaps these two were guards or scouts who got soused while on duty and came wandering into town? I wonder if someone... or something... gave them alcohol and put them up to this. I have a sneaking suspicion that our trickster is to blame."

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 9 AC:14
Monday September 13th, 2021 4:55:50 AM
Torryn hoped that Fenfaren would quickly come to terms with his strange new existence. She was confident that he would. Nature had a way of prevailing against the odds. Her attention switched back to the ogre finds and to Donna. She shook her head gently.

"No thank you; not right now." She told the woman. Torryn was quite sure that she'd likely prove the most embarrassing member the League had ever recruited were she to join now. She needed to master her abilities, and her temper, before seriously considering such a momentous decision. That being said, she felt that for Evred and Manolo it would be a perfect fit.

Donna's offer answered she refocused on the finds. Neither the dagger, nor skull held much appeal. Now if it had been a spear and not a dagger, that would be a very different matter. Of course, the money was all very welcome. Whatever portion she acquired would swiftly be put to good service in paying for lodging and helping her parents.

Loryn Glitterfall; AC 13 HP 8 Dan K
Monday September 13th, 2021 10:50:37 AM
Loryn thanks Fenfarran for his timely assistance. "Now perhaps when he comes to and is far more sober we can get an answer or three."

Loryn listens to Grog and nods his understanding and adds his agreement to Evred's musings

"I think they could be related to our Fey hunt as well. Like Grog said, normally you don't drink and then pillage." He says to the others

Loryn felt a bit odd about the treasure, but not like the others. In fact, their reaction was a bit perplexing to the gnome. Maybe they were not going to be adventuring companions after all. Or not all perhaps. Time would tell, but the gnome secretly worried that if defending Windhorn from marauding ogres put them in such a state, might the freeze up in the face of the next living adersary. he knew plenty of stories
of the end of would be adventuring groups is such fashion. They usually involved the last survivor retiring and telling stories about the time he took an arrow to the knee. Perhaps Loryn would give the group a shake down later on that

"Phaedra." he speaks up, we need to detain the last ogre, I would like to secure him right here so when he comes around I can talk with him. pieces of this encounter do not sort correctly."

Lorryn is at least interested in hearing more on the WLA and how that might work, given the lack of a Chapter House local

Loryn watches Mortimer, perhaps the strangest human he may have ever met see to fumble and be surprised at such simple magics "Excuse me Mortimer, but if I could examine the scroll, I can read the magic upon it"

Cast Read Magic and look at the scroll

Spells
4-1st- Color Spray, Magic Weapon
x 0 - Detect Magic, Read Magic, Mage Hand, Message

Gnome: 1/day Dancing Lights, Prestidigitation, Ghost Sound, Speak with Animals

Sorcerer Ray 7/ day 30' 1d6

"Now perhaps when he comes to and is far more sober we can get an answer or three." (DM John)
Monday September 13th, 2021 11:48:43 AM

Torrynashkabbeth is reassured by the actions of these others and expresses her concern for Fenfaran.
Fenfaran hugs her in response. He sheds a tear over the fallen ogre and ponders his new existence.
Mortimer celebrates his recent discoveries and casts detect magic on the contents of the ogre’s bags.
Mole avoids the crowd but keeps an eye on the things.
Manolo expresses interest in the WLA and thinks of what he knows of Grog.
Evred is also interested in the WLA while keeping focus on the current situation with a question.
Torryn declines Donna’s offer and starts thinking about her share of the loot.
Loryn adds to Evred’s comments to Grog and ruminates about the risks of adventuring. He then examines the scroll.
Ash

Mortimer sees the aura on the scroll that Ash discovered. Also, as he rummages through the detritus within the ogre’s bags he finds two more auras, apparently overlooked by Ash’s initial investigation (understandable given all the excitement). Two glass vials that have miraculously survived the jostling within the bag also have a faint aura.

Loryn determines that the scroll contains the spider climb spell.

Manolo recalls the following about Grog. He is a half-ogre who had been banished from his tribe in the Red Hills for being too smart, clever, and not evil. He became an adventurer for a time and traveled widely. He fell in love with the peaceful town while attending the Festival of Renewal, retired from adventuring, and built a tavern and inn on one outer corner of the town. His tavern was named Grog’s Happy Half-Ogre Tavern and Inn. Rumors of the source of his apparent longevity abound, but no one seems to really know. His ready answer to anyone bold enough to outright ask is, “Exercise, fresh air, and fresh ale.”

When Grog arrives, Evred asks, "Do you have any ideas? Perhaps these two were guards or scouts who got soused while on duty and came wandering into town? I wonder if someone... or something... gave them alcohol and put them up to this. I have a sneaking suspicion that our trickster is to blame."

Grog shakes his head, obviously trying to process what has transpired. “Guards? No, Windhorn is out of their territory. Scouts? Maybe,” he replies, surveying the bags’ contents as the recent heroes go through it. “More like raiders, judging by their loot.” He falls silent then adds, “But this coming after me during the middle of the party when everyone is out. It doesn’t make sense. My kinfolk are not bright, but they’re not normally suicidal”.

At the mention of alcohol Grog’s eyebrows raise. He steps over to the still unconscious ogre and, with a wrinkle of his nose, he sniffs his breath. He stands up and tells Phaedra, “Well. I think we know what happened to Ezra’s missing whiskey cask.” Turning to Evred, “You may be onto something, lad.” With a gesture to the ogres, he explains, “Stealthy larceny is not their style.”

While this conversation is going on, it becomes apparent that Cerdic’s and Varma’s attempts to revive the party have been wholly unsuccessful. The townsfolk mill around in a daze. A few gather to, from a distance, gawk at the fallen ogres, while others shake their heads and mutter about the ruined celebration. A few even dare to cast furtive accusatory glances at Grog as if blaming him for the sudden attack.

Meanwhile, Donna nods to Manolo and Evred her understanding of their interest, but with a gesture indicates that she wishes them to wait for now.

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 9 AC:14 d20=17 ;
Monday September 13th, 2021 12:08:56 PM
The trickster. Yes, they should definitely keep an eye open for that one, thought Torryn. She stood and looked around, not really expecting to see much; there were so many people milling around. This though, would make a good diversion for some other larceny or mischief.

(OOC: Perception 17+2=19. To notice anything that she might consider Fey/unusual. Adjust for penalties due to the crowd.)

Torryn didn't really expect to see anything untoward. There were too many eyes around for a mischievous Nubby. At least that was her considered opinion. She turned her attention back to the newly found items. Perhaps she too ought to call upon her magical abilities to seek further items. Calling on her "Feysight" as she called it, wasn't difficult. With a graceful flick of the wrist a single soft word, she called forth her magic (Detect Magic). She surveyed the area carefully, more in the hope of picking up the trail of the Nubby than finding anything new.

Manolo (Michael A) - HP 10/10 AC 17
Monday September 13th, 2021 4:03:31 PM
Manolo ponders about the current situation.
"Ogres going wild due to the consumption of whiskey",he says.
"Surely there should be a reason for this?! ".

Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.) - HP: 8/8. AC:13
Monday September 13th, 2021 7:58:46 PM
Mortimer doesn't realize it at first, but he slowly becomes aware of the presence of magic. Colorful auras begin to reveal themselves. A smile betrays a knowing and guileful gaze. "I can get soo used to this."

When Loryn asks to read the scroll, Mortimer replies, "Yes, please, have a gander. You three," referring to Loryn, Torryn and Ash, "are brilliant at this magic craft. A rank amateur, I am." His attention immediately returns to one of the bags, "Ohh, hey ... there's somethin' else!" He retrieves two small vials from one of the bags. "Looky here ... are these potions? They have a soft glow." He presents them to the others.

Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.) - HP: 8/8. AC:13 d20=18 ;
Monday September 13th, 2021 8:23:15 PM
Like a crow, he's always been attracted to shiny things. It robs much of his attention. However experience has taught him not to linger over one's loot for very long. There's always another thief ... there's ALWAYS another thief; it bears repeating. It's one of the few things in life you can rely on. He keeps his ears aware of his surroundings (Perception: 18). He hears talk about an Explorers' League that comes with prestige and shiny badges. He likes shiny things, especially things that could get him into places he couldn't normally go. Things that earn you respect and renown. This interests him. He makes a mental note to look into it.

Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 10/10
Monday September 13th, 2021 10:37:18 PM
" You're as good as us, you just need to see your talent"Ash says to Mortimer.Ash rubs his hands together, and awaits to see what is on the scroll.

Mole; (RichP) AC 18; HP 11; CMD 13 d20+8=21 ;
Monday September 13th, 2021 11:18:31 PM
Mole continues to watch quietly. He keeps a particular eye on the youngsters who aided in dealing with the ogres.

Perception DC 21

Evred Vost (Tanner) -- HP 16 | AC 15/11/13 | CMD 18 | F+5/R+2/W+0
Monday September 13th, 2021 11:24:31 PM
Evred looks over the loot, but shrugs, "Nothing I really need. I can just take my share in coin."

To Grog, "Thank you for your knowledge. I worry about the bodies. Would your old tribe be roused by their disappearance? We want things to stay quiet. Perhaps we should haul their bodies to the wilds. Scavengers would pick their corpses until their wounds could not be linked to us."

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 9 AC:14
Tuesday September 14th, 2021 8:00:12 AM
Dragging bodies, particularly huge bodies did not appeal to Torrym. She decided it would be best to pretend that she hadn't heard that comment. Instead she turned her attention to the scrolls and Mortimer. Before calling on her "feysight" to rad the scrolls she addressed Mortimer laughingly.

"You make it sound like I'm a wizard or something." She shrugged lightly. "I'm just Fey-blooded is all. It let's me do some things - little things." She didn't think that what she could do was any better than that which Mortimer could achieve and certainly lesser than Loryn.

She lacked focus. That's what she was always being told. It was probably true; at least in part. She resolved to pay more attention to Agratha's lessons. Tomorrow. Today she had a scroll to read.

OOC: Read Magic.

Loryn Glitterfall; AC 13 HP 8 Dan K
Tuesday September 14th, 2021 11:27:58 AM
Loryn lets the others know the scroll contains the spell Spider Climb and replies to Mortimer, "You're still young and with practice I'm sure you will improve.

As the conversation seems to turn into dragging bodies away

The gnome stamps his foot and raises his voice "EXCUSE ME!"
Satisfied he had the bigs' attention, he continues more calmly,
"I would like to point out that thanks to Fenfarrn we do NOT have 2 bodies, but 1 body. Singular. We have a prisoner to detain and question when he wakes up."

Loryn looks at Torry as she tries to take the scroll and simply moves his hand so she cannot grab it. "The scroll is a spell of Spider Climb. Why don't you have a look at the potions instead. Or better yet, take them over to Mole and let him look at them. Dwarf are perceptive fellows and those who embrace the wilds are even more so"

"Evred, perhaps you could acquire some rope so that we can restrain the ogre before he wakes up"

Lorryn suggests the mundane items be sold, but the scroll and potions should certainly be kept

Spells
4-1st- Color Spray, Magic Weapon
x 0 - Detect Magic, Read Magic, Mage Hand, Message

Gnome: 1/day Dancing Lights, Prestidigitation, Ghost Sound, Speak with Animals

Sorcerer Ray 7/ day 30' 1d6

"EXCUSE ME!" (DM John)
Tuesday September 14th, 2021 2:22:23 PM

Torrynashkabbeth keeps an eye open for the trickster;. [She notices nothing unusually fey like, but see after the PC action summary.] Then she looks for magic. [She finds nothing additional--which is two magic potions and a scroll. The scroll contains the spell spider climb.]
Manolo wonders aloud what is going on.
Mortimer enjoys his new found ability to see magical auras and shares his observations with the others. He makes a note of the potential to join an “explorer’s league.”
Ash encourages Mortimer.
Mole remains alert.
Evred examines the loot then thanks Grog and asks about the bodies.
Loryn reminds everyone that there is one survivor.
Fenfaran

[Investigation soon reveals that the potions are each potions of cure light wounds. The scroll is one of spider climb. Note also that one ogre was stabilized but is currently unconscious.]

Evred addresses Grog, “ I worry about the bodies. Would your old tribe be roused by their disappearance? We want things to stay quiet. Perhaps we should haul their bodies to the wilds. Scavengers would pick their corpses until their wounds could not be linked to us.”

Grog starts to speak but is interrupted by Loryn. He grins, nodding to the gnome as he takes charge.

Phaedra nods at the centaur as Lorryn tells him to get rope and adds more instructions, “Go find Adam and tell him to bring some horses. We’ll drag the unconscious one to the Keep to secure him there until he sleeps it off. After that, we can take this one’s remains outside of town for the scavengers--way out of town,” she clarifies.
She then looks around at the dispersing crowd. “Well, sorry Grog, but it looks like the party is over. “

She then turns to the others. “Having proven yourself here today and with your earlier investigations, I want you to be a part of continued investigations. I will send for you when the prisoner awakes so that you can be involved in the questioning.” She then turns to Grog and glances at his place, clearly indicating that she wishes to join him there. The two of them depart together. Donna lingers, while staying out of the way.

….about two hours later, Phaedra’s summons arrives and the group is led to an inner chamber. The captured ogre is manacled to large iron rings set in the stone walls, bleary eyed and, judging by his not so soft moaning, suffering a terrible headache. Judging by the presence of the large sized cuffs, this is not the first time an ogre has been detained within Bearclaw Keep. The group sees that Phaedra, Theobald, and Grog are waiting for them in the hallway outside the cell.

[Feel free to include anything you wish to do in the two hours before the meeting with the ogre]

Fenfaran - (Iain) AC:18 - HP:11/11
Tuesday September 14th, 2021 6:07:40 PM
Fen is unconcerned about spoils and mostly just loiters watching, learning.

Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.) - HP: 8/8. AC:13 d20+3=11 ;
Tuesday September 14th, 2021 9:33:47 PM
He can't help but smile upon hearing the encouraging words of his new friends. A closed-lip smile, of course, after becoming painfully aware of the tightness and cramping in his cheeks. If these people were fellow street urchins, like himself, he wouldn't trust one syllable of their kind words. Flattery was usually followed up with empty pockets or a club across the head or both. These fellows weren't cut from that sack cloth. Their words may actually be genuine. "Thanks guys! At least your magics aren't lucky accidents. I promise to practice."

When he hears the plan to feed the dead ogre to the forest, the news almost makes him want to dance. "I was NOT lookin' forward to diggin' that hole," he says to everyone else!

In the next two hours, he continues to practice in a well-shaded area. His skin was getting a bit pink in the sun. He is able to conjure a few minor magical effects with limited success. However he is beginning to recognize and tap the source of his power. It feels cold, writhing and sinewy. Near the end of his practice, his hand and wrist turns very pale and seems to radiate shadow. He stands there watching it pulsate and he decides to deliver a touch upon himself. Mortimer is suddenly shaken with fright. His breathing becomes short and quick ... his heart races... and it ends as quick as it came. The sensation was quite unnerving. The color returns to his hand. He decides that is enough practice for the day and rejoins the others at the interrogation.

Mole; (RichP) AC 18; HP 11; CMD 13 d20+8=19 ;
Tuesday September 14th, 2021 10:15:20 PM
Mole goes back in and gets another ale before coming back out to watch the scene. After a finishing his second ale, he notices the tall folk ignoring Loryn. If they're not lookin' ya in the eyes they don't see you.

He heads back out to the group after the crowd clears out a bit.

Perception DC 19

Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 10/10
Tuesday September 14th, 2021 10:53:20 PM
Ash grabs a drink with Mole before heading to meet up with the others.

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 9 AC:14
Wednesday September 15th, 2021 7:21:19 AM
Torryn cast a few wistful looks at the empty dancefloor. It would have been good to dance. That chance was gone, at least for now. So it was time to change out of her dress and into something more practical for 'adventuring'.

She returned to her lodgings and changed her attire. She'd been lucky really. Fighting in a dress was not something she wanted to try again in a hurry. had it not been for the slit up one side, she'd have been greatly restricted in her movements and a far easier target for the ogre. Having pulled on her long boots, Torryn slipped her tunic over her head. It was short; far shorter than her dress and certainly far too short for most of the women in town, but Torryn was young, beautiful and - as far as she was concerned - fey-blooded; so if she wanted to display her legs, she would. Wearing the tunic, she felt far more ready for trouble. Most other seeing her barely clad in that fashion would think that it was SHE that was trouble!

Before heading over to the jail, Torryn availed herself of a little fruit. She wasn't sure when she'd be eating next. She practically pranced up next to the imposing, waiting figures with a broad smile. "

"I'm ready! She informed them before anyone could think to question the suitability of her attire - as her parents often did.

Mole; (RichP) AC 18; HP 11; CMD 13
Wednesday September 15th, 2021 8:59:18 AM
"Hey there lad, come for a drink?" He says to Ash. "The little lady isn't much of a drinker there." Gesturing to Torry.

"Whatcha think of this?" He says. "Me? Not sure yet what ta think of it."

Loryn Glitterfall; AC 13 HP 8 Dan K
Wednesday September 15th, 2021 10:47:36 AM
Loryn hands one of the potions of curing to Evred, he hands the other to Torry before she heads out. He puts the Scroll of Spider Climb in his own pocket.

"Evred, you are our front line and as centaurs tend to charge about, you might find yourself out of range of healing spells"

"Torry, from what I just saw, you're gonna need that sooner or later." The gnome shoots the young girl a wink and casts about for Donna. Locating her, he walks over

"Excuse me, but i have an interest in the Woldian League and would like to know more as I do not know enough to know what i do not know."

If Donna is willing, after explaining things, Loryn is ready to take the Oath

2 hours later...
Loryn walks into the keep and spies Phaedra, Theobald, and Grog waiting. A quick smile of recognition and the bob of his oversized nose and the gnome walks over. "Friends dont let friends drink and pillage" he says in giant as he notes the ogres distress

to the others, "So how do we proceed here?"

Spells
4-1st- Color Spray, Magic Weapon
x 0 - Detect Magic, x Read Magic, Mage Hand, Message

Gnome: 1/day Dancing Lights, x Prestidigitation, x Ghost Sound, x Speak with Animals

Sorcerer Ray 7/ day 30' 1d6

Oaths and Questions (DM John)
Wednesday September 15th, 2021 12:29:38 PM

Fenfaran keeps a watchful eye.
Mortimer continues to experiment with his new found powers.
Mole rejoins the group, but not before finishing some ale.
Ash joins Mole. The two discuss the current happenings.
Torrynashkabbeth changes clothing and joins the others.
Loryn distributes the magic items. He then seeks out Donna.
Manolo
Evred

Donna is easy to locate as she has been keeping close to the prospective new members. When Lorryn expresses his interest, she readily answers his questions, but not before seeking out Evred and Manolo as well as anyone else who may be interested in joining.

She then explains in detail how the organization works, the very expensive dues that must be met once you have more experience, the benefits and the responsibilities with special emphasis on the latter. As she concludes she asks, “Are each of you still willing to take the oath and commit to the Woldian League of Adventurers. There is no dishonor in turning away now, but after you swear the oath, you are bound by your word and by all that is sacred.”

The oath is as follows:

“I, (state your name), do solemnly swear to uphold the ideals of the League, to protect the innocent and combat evil wherever I may find it.”

Once sworn, she states the following, “By the authority invested in me, I, Donna Kimberly, do bestow upon you membership into the august Woldian League of Adventurers and grant you the title of Adventurer. Please step forward and accept your badge of office.” The then produces the smalle badge in the shape of a battlemented tower with the WLA symbol in Old High Woldian. She then greets each new member in turn with a smile, “Congratulations and Welcome to the League.”

About the time she finishes, Phaedra’s summons arrives.

Phaedra notices the new badges, her only reaction being a smile of approval at those wearing them. Before she takes them to the ogre, she tells them, “There has been another development. Apparently, while we were distracted by the ogre attack, something very valuable of Grog’s has been stolen. His magic shortsword from his adventuring days. We can assume that the attack and the theft are related. So keep that in mind as you talk to the ogre. And, yes, I am letting you take the lead in the interrogation since you have proved so capable so far.

The group finds themselves in the chamber with the hungover ogre. Phaedra, addresses the adventures, “Having proven so capable, I will let you take the lead in the interrogation. Grog is here to provide translation services as needed.”

Please note the disposition of magic items in Lorryn’s post and add to your character sheets: CLW potion to Evred and Torryn; Scroll to Lorryn.

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 9 AC:14
Wednesday September 15th, 2021 12:36:59 PM
Torryn swept her long hair back.

"Well, we could just ask him." She suggested somewhat sheepishly. She's never interrogated anyone before, but just asking seemed a good place to start.

"Loryn, you can speak Giant, you can ask the questions." She added as she fidgeted with her spear. Should she have brought it? Was it too intimidating? She cast a glance at Evred, then back at her spear and decided that the ogre likely wouldn't even notice her and her 'toothpick'.

The potion, she'd tucked down into her boot. It wasn't an ideal place, but she'd really no other place to put it - that didn't expose it to even greater risk.

Manolo (Michael A) - HP 10/10 AC 17
Wednesday September 15th, 2021 6:18:13 PM
Manolo feels excitement as he takes the oath.
“I, Manolo, do solemnly swear to uphold the ideals of the League, to protect the innocent and combat evil wherever I may find it.”
As the proceeding interrogation begins he starts to think about questions before asking/saying out without thinking.
"Introduce yourself to us", he simply says hoping to break the ice, Hopefully the others are going to follow up with questions

Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.) - HP: 8/8. AC:13 d20=19 ;
Wednesday September 15th, 2021 9:14:00 PM
As Lorryn, Evred and Manolo prepare to take their oaths, seemingly out of nowhere, Mortimer appears beside them as if he's been there the entire time. He projects a proud and confident charm. Unlike before, in thrall to tumultuous emotion, he seems calm, cool. Only his gaze betrays a hint of intensity. When the time comes, he joins the others in the chorus ...

"“I, Mortimer Margrave, do solemnly swear to uphold the ideals of the League, to protect the innocent and combat evil wherever I may find it.”

He congratulates the others with a smile and a handshake. The others may notice his hand is cold to the touch. He proudly accepts his badge. He does like his shiny things.

During the interrogation, Mortimer holds off from any questions. He wants to see the giant's demeanor upon realizing the predicament he finds himself in.

(Sense Motive: 19)

Evred Vost (Tanner) -- HP 16 | AC 15/11/13 | CMD 18 | F+5/R+2/W+0
Wednesday September 15th, 2021 11:10:15 PM
OOC: Apologies! I started a new job this week and things are a bit hectic.

Evred walks forward, stopping before Donna and placing a fist over his heart.

“I, Evred Vost, do solemnly swear to uphold the ideals of the League, to protect the innocent and combat evil wherever I may find it."

He accepts the emblem of the League and affixes it prominently to his armor. "I look forward to serving with pride. Thank you."

He is somewhat surprised by the sudden appearance of Mortimer, but takes it in stride and claps the human on the shoulder at the conclusion of his oath. "Now we are brothers-in-arms! What a day. I'm already feeling more confident in our pursuit of this trickster. Now we just need to interrogate this ogre and find out what he knows."

Making his way to the holding pen, Evred unslings his lance and keeps it trained on the ogre. "Go ahead and wake him. A bucket of cold water should do. The sight of his pal's blood on my lance should help convince him."

Mole; (RichP) AC 18; HP 11; CMD 13 d20+8=18 ; d20+4=16 ;
Thursday September 16th, 2021 8:07:54 AM
Mole passes on the League, for now anyway.

When time to interrogate the ogre, he stays back and observes.

Perception DC 18, Sense Motive DC 16

Fenfaran - (Iain) AC:18 - HP:11/11
Thursday September 16th, 2021 10:14:37 AM
Fen watches the others join the WLA and shrugs ~ if it's good enought for them...
"I, Fenfaran, do solemnly swear to uphold the ideals of the League, to protect the innocent and combat evil wherever I may find it." Unsure as to what it all means and what defines evil he trusts the others will enlighten him.

(OOC please see my email, I am going to have to drop out for a week or so due to health reasons ~ hope to see you all soon).

Loryn Glitterfall; AC 13 HP 8 Dan K
Thursday September 16th, 2021 12:43:33 PM
Loryn takes the oath with Evred, Fenfarrn, Mortimer and Manolo
“I, Loryn Glitterfall, do solemnly swear to uphold the ideals of the League, to protect the innocent and combat evil wherever I may find it.” Upon receiving the badge, he gives a once or rather twice over and then secures it to his left breast

"Yes I do speak giant", Loryn responds to Torrynashkabbeth.

With Evred 'covering' the ogre and no one to forth coming with their own ideas, the little gnome simply starts.
"You and your companion attacked Windhorn. Your companion could not be saved and is dead. Your life depends on your answers to me.
I would know your name and tribe.
I would know how you came into possession of so much alcohol. Did a recent visitor give it to you?
What were you promised in coming here?"

IF - the ogre does speak of a stranger visiting,..
What did this stranger look like
Why did you not kill him when he first came to you

Spells
4-1st- Color Spray, Magic Weapon
x 0 - Detect Magic, x Read Magic, Mage Hand, Message

Gnome: 1/day Dancing Lights, x Prestidigitation, x Ghost Sound, x Speak with Animals

Sorcerer Ray 7/ day 30' 1d6

"I do speak giant" (DM John)
Thursday September 16th, 2021 5:20:20 PM

Torrynashkabbeth defers to Lorryn for the interrogation.
Manolo is excited to join the WLA. At the interrogation, he starts the questioning, through a translator.
Mortimer also takes the oath, proudly accepting his new badge. During the interrogation he watches the ogre for signs of deceit.
Evred also joins the WLA and thanks the WLA officer. He welcomes Mortimer. He threatens the ogre with his lance.
Mole also watches the ogre’s reactions.
Fenfaran takes the oath.
Loryntakes his oath. Later he leads the questioning, since he speaks the ogre’s language.
Ash

Lorryn proceeds, “You and your companion attacked Windhorn. Your companion could not be saved and is dead. Your life depends on your answers to me.
“I would know your name and tribe.”

The ogre blinks at the gnome, struggling with comprehending his words. After several moments, he drops his head in defeat. “Me Obluk of Grukkug Clan.” In an aside, Grog confirms that that was the clan of his father, still retaining his name after all these years.

I would know how you came into possession of so much alcohol. Did a recent visitor give it to you?
What were you promised in coming here?"
“A girl gave me and Donkug the keg. She was very nice and the licker burned like fire so we didn’t eat her. Promise? She promise nothing.” He scratches his head, or attempts too as best he can with the manacles. “She said that Grog say we are dwarves. That made us mad so we came to make him take it back..”

Mortimer and Mole Highlight to display spoiler: {You sense a lot of whiskey induced confusion and perceive that he is too muddled to be deceitful.}

Meanwhile, Theobald Swiftshine, Windguard and husband of the Windguard captain takes a keen interest in Fenfaren. He asks the young beastfolk to assist him on his regular patrols around Windhorn while the others continue their investigation into recent troubles. Take care, Iain, Fenfaren will be around town until your return.

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 9 AC:14
Thursday September 16th, 2021 5:38:10 PM
OOC: Assuming that Loryn paraphrases the above so that the rest can follow what transpires.

'A girl', thought Torryn. That was interesting. Perhaps the Nubby was merely an agent for the girl, who in turn was far more than might initially meet the eye. She held that thought and waited to see what else might be revealed. sadly, the ogre really wasn't very clever and expecting a more detailed description of 'the girl' was likely futile. It had, after all, attacked a whole community in the hope of 'having words' with Grog.

She trusted Loryn's instincts. Loryn would know the right questions to ask. So she remained quiet, merely waiting to see if the ogre mistook her for 'the girl'. that would be informative.

Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 10/10
Thursday September 16th, 2021 5:56:37 PM
Ash takes the oathe and joins the WLA. My how his family would respect his decision to join such a famous group.

As for later as he's watching the ogre be interrogated, he continously taps his index finger on his chin.. seeing if he picks up on any clues.

Manolo (Michael A) - HP 10/10 AC 17
Thursday September 16th, 2021 8:15:11 PM
Manolo is perplexed by what the ogre says, for a moment.
"Could you describe or height or size ?" , Manolo tries to ask nicely.

Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.) - HP: 8/8. AC:13
Thursday September 16th, 2021 10:46:04 PM
He listens to the tone of his voice (and translation) and observes what little body language he's capable of performing. Emboldened by his shiny, new badge and inflated delusions of importance, Mortimer stands over the lumpy giant like some grand inquisitor. After the first round of questions, his stoic facade breaks as he begins to slowly shake his head. A toothy grin forms across his face ... still a bit too unnerving; those teeth!

"This sod is too bog-faced to care. I oughta know ... been there myself, I have! I believe him."

As they discuss what next to do, Mortimer chimes in, "This Nubby can obviously change her appearance. It doesn't matter how she looks; a slippery one, she is. You catch a fish by throwin' bait in the water. Have this Nubby come to us."

Mole; (RichP) AC 18; HP 11; CMD 13 d20+7=8 ;
Friday September 17th, 2021 9:43:47 AM
Mole watches the interrogation. After listening he confirms Mort's assessment.

"I find it hard to believe that this Nubby is related. What reason would this girl have in a Nubby attack a random farm. They are probably unrelated." He says.

"Nubby is it's own problem; and one we said we'd take care of. So, I think we need to table this one for now. Let the guard look into it, and deal with this Nubby out at the farm."

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 9 AC:14
Friday September 17th, 2021 11:43:47 AM
Toryn decided to speak up, albeit apologetically.

"I don't know. I think it's likely that they ARE related. I mean, it's not like that much actually happens here - usually; so when all this happens at once, I believe that it is related. So, it could be that the Nubby can shapeshift, or t could be that the Nubby is actually a tool being used by a more powerful and manipulative Fey.....of some sort."

She finished a little lamely, not actually knowing how to differentiate between the different types of Fey nor how many different types there were. Sh just knew that there were Light and Dark fey and this one was definitely Dark.

Evred Vost (Tanner) -- HP 16 | AC 15/11/13 | CMD 18 | F+5/R+2/W+0 d20=16 ;
Friday September 17th, 2021 11:22:30 PM
Evred traced slow figure-eights in the air with the tip of his lance, keeping the point hovering slightly longer in front of the ogre's nose with each pass. Everyone had a tell. Under questioning, facing the prospect of pain or death, everyone had a tell. A chink in the armor of their resolve. This ogre was dull of wits, hungover from ale, and missing blood. They would have the truth, and all of it, soon enough.

"Please continue your questions, everyone. This ogre will tell us everything. Then he will lead us to the spot where they saw the changeling."

OOC: Sense Motive 16

"I believe him" (DM John)
Sunday September 19th, 2021 7:00:09 PM

Torrynashkabbeth reacts to the ogre’s mention of a girl. Later, she adds that the various events are likely related.
Ash taps and watches]
Manolo asks for a description of the girl.
Mortimer speculates that the nuglub is changing its appearance and proposes waiting for it to return.
Evred threatens the ogre then suggests having it lead it to where they met the girl.
Loryn
Mole.

The questioning continues and the group learns more from the ogre who seems relatively cooperative. The “girl” was small and human. She wore a dirty off white simple dress and had dark hair, dark eyes, fair skin and about three feet tall, so, relatively young, but he is unable to estimate a human age. The description does not really match any of the children in Windhorn. The child met the ogres in the Red Hills several miles out of town and offered them some ham and the whiskey, leading them to Windhorm, a place they would normally avoid. Any questions regarding how a little girl managed to carry a whole ham and a whiskey cask are unanswered. It is obvious that the ogre did not think of the incongruity. Phaedra adds some questions about others they may have encountered, but the ogre insists they only spoke with the girl and saw no one else. She rejects the suggestion to have the ogre lead them away when the ogre reveals that it is almost half a day’s walk away.

After questioning is over, Captain Swiftshine, accompanied by Grog escorts the group to another room on a different floor, leaving Theobald to lock up behind them. She turns to the half ogre, ”I think they can help. Tell them what you told me earlier.”

“Yes. Yes, I think you are right.” He sighs deeply before continuing, his massive gesture heaving as he does so, “The ogre’s attack was not the only bad thing that happened this evening. My magic shortsword, Heroes’ Fortune, was stolen from my quarters. It’s likely that the ogre attack was merely a diversion.” He pauses a moment, then nods his head as if in answer to a question in his mind, “I think we are on the brink of “bad time’s. Seeing each of you step up the way you did. I think you are here at this time for a reason”. He turns to look at Phaedra, “I know you have little resources here in Windhorm. I would like to request that they take on the task of finding out what is going on and leave you in a supportive role while you continue your regular duties.”

You can tell by Phaedra’s body language that she is not offended by the former adventurer’s presumption. “I agree. These folks have shown their concern for duty, others, and the community.”
“Please take the task on of getting to the bottom of what is going on here and check in as appropriate. Evred,” she adds turning to face the centaur, “This will now be your primary duty in the Windguard for now. We will take care of your other duties.”

Grog looks seriously. “You have been too heroic to ask, but understand that there will be a substantial reward for returning my sword.” It is obvious from his body language that the reward he has in mind will be substantial.

OOC: This wraps up the encounter with the ogre. Please post any reactions to what just transpired and clarify where you will be spending the night. Most of you live at Minerva’s, but I believe there is an exception or two.

Each player receives 1 HERO POINT for their actions during the ogre attack.

Manolo (Michael A) - HP 10/10 AC 17
Sunday September 19th, 2021 8:36:11 PM
Manolo is surprised by all of this.
'someone planned all of this', he thinks.
"we are dealing with someone or something we can not underestimate ", he says calmly , "with enough capability for deception".

Manolo will go to sleep unless someone else has a better idea.

Mole; (RichP) AC 18; HP 11; CMD 13
Sunday September 19th, 2021 10:10:52 PM
"Don't know." He says to Torryn. "Still doesn't feel connected. But in any case, I believe dealing with the fey should be done first. Should it be connected, we'll find out. In case it isn't, we can't have fey attacking livestock. It might not be long before it bores with chickens and attacks the families in the homesteads." He pauses while stroking his beard.

"As much as I would like help find the sword, I think the safety of the families living on the outskirts are more important, for now."

Evred Vost (Tanner) -- HP 16 | AC 15/11/13 | CMD 18 | F+5/R+2/W+0
Sunday September 19th, 2021 10:20:16 PM
Evred salutes. "Of course." He turns to Grog, "Since the fey is now in possession of your shortsword, can you tell us what properties it possesses? In case it is used against us."

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 9 AC:14
Monday September 20th, 2021 9:51:47 AM
"Well," Said Torryn slowly and carefully. She paused before continuing. "I am still firmly of the belief that it IS all related. The Nubby stole the whisky and ham as a pre-planned venture to lure in the ogres. then the nubby steals the sword. Fey like magic. The sword's magical. It stands to reason, really. Of course I still don't actually know what a Nubby is; so maybe there's two Fey: one working for the other. I heard that some Fey can actually change size quite dramatically - as well as their shape. So, in terms of protecting people; we do that by catching these Fey. There is though, just the slight matter of actually finding them. I wish I could be more helpful."

Although she'd finished somewhat lamely, her mind was already whirling. If she was a full blooded Fey, where would she go? What would she do? Apart from dance. Nothing immediately sprang to mind.

"We should probably keep a watch of some sort, but over what, I really don't know."

Torryn contemplated the notion of dancing. They didn't have a musician, but Nature created it's own rhythms and tunes. Torryn could interpret those. Her idea was to lure the inquisitive creature out. The setting was as important as the performance. She retire early - very early and then get up just before dawn. A dance to greet the sun would surely entrance any onlooker!

Loryn Glitterfall; AC 13 HP 8 Dan K
Monday September 20th, 2021 2:25:57 PM
Loryn tugs a bit at his nose as Grog brings up his missing sword and the ogre diversion. "Possibly." he says. the gnome was not overly clever or particularly insightful. Loryn quickly agrees to take up the task of the sword along with their original agenda of what seems like a dark fey running about.

Exiting the castle, he suggests all of them get together for dinner and discuss next steps.

"I'm kinda of the mind that the 2 are related as well. Certainly no little girl headed off miles form home into the Hills with half a ham and a keg of whiskey. Getting the ogres drunk and suggesting they come here makes more sense that it was to get Grog away from his house as well as any onlookers to get to the sword. But that also means they had to know of it in the first place. So what are our next moves eh? We really don't have any leads that I am aware of. Anyone have any starting spots for either sword or fey? All i have is to perhaps back track the ogres. Mole can track. um Righ Mole?"

Loryn spends the night at Minerva's, retiring after a small almond liqueur by an early fire

Spells
4-1st- Color Spray, Magic Weapon
x 0 - Detect Magic, x Read Magic, Mage Hand, Message

Gnome: 1/day Dancing Lights, x Prestidigitation, x Ghost Sound, x Speak with Animals

Sorcerer Ray 7/ day 30' 1d6

Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.) - HP: 8/8. AC:13
Monday September 20th, 2021 5:09:41 PM
"Yes, when we find this Nubby, I bet we'll find your sword." Then the realization hits that they are possibly faced with a dark fey armed with a magic sword ... 'well, that's just brilliant,' he thinks to himself.

At dinner, Mortimer doesn't have much to eat. He doesn't even drink to excess. He sits there quietly lost in his thoughts. When everyone begins to retire for the evening, he makes his way back to his tool shed at the cemetery. Along the way, he passes by the unmarked grave he mistakenly dug up. (mentioned in a post on July 13, 2021). The bones had been collected into an ossuary chest until new pine box could be constructed.

Mortimer notices something strange. The soil at the bottom of the grave had been disturbed. That's very odd. He then spots a trail of fresh dirt leading away from the gravesite toward his tool shed. The door was left ajar ... someone had entered his shed! "Bloody Hells," he says! He pulls out his dagger and approaches. He listens to the door ... nothing. He builds up his nerve and swings open the door, with his dagger leading the charge. The tool shed is just how he left it ... except for a heavily-rusted, metal strongbox on the floor.

The rust and corrosion is quite extensive. It's quite obvious it had been buried for a very long time. The padlock easily breaks apart with little effort. After brushing away the heavy amount of rust on soil on the lid, he is shocked to find the remains of a Margrave family crest, like the one on his medallion. He carefully removes the lid and finds the box filled with dirt; obviously having seeped in over the centuries. He gingerly runs his fingers through the dirt to find 95 gold pieces and the remains of a small, dried out leather pouch. Inside the pouch is a black sapphire. He knows black sapphires are pretty much worthless, considered inferior gemstones, but this one was cut exquisitely to precision. It immediately draws his attention to his medallion. The gem would fit perfectly in the medallion's empty setting. As soon as Mortimer brings the gem within close proximity, the black sapphire flies from his fingers and snaps into the medallion! The gem is so black, it seems to consume the light around it.

(OOC: The 95 gold is the remainder of Mortimer's starting gold at character creation. The gem is a missing piece of his Heirloom Item. I couldn't have a common street urchin be that rich :)

Mole; (RichP) AC 18; HP 11; CMD 13 d20+8=17 ; d20+10=16 ;
Monday September 20th, 2021 6:23:44 PM
"I may be able to track them. I have some skill in locating tracks, but following them is another story." He says. "Let's go to the tavern and talk through the next move."

At the tavern, "Alright, let's talk this through, then." He says. "First to a drunk ogre a halfling, dwarf, elf, or small human would be considered a child to an ogre. Second, why would a shapeshifter need a distraction to sneak in and steal the sword?" He says. "Third, from what we know of this Nubby, it's a nocturnal hunter. Why would it take action during the day when it seems so out of character from it's actions at the farm."

"I'm going to take a look around the area it was stolen. I want to see if there are any witnesses or evidence left."

Mole wants to look for tracks outside the building that held the sword and also he wants to see if there are any animals that may be in the area.

Survival DC 16, Perception DC 17

Manolo (Michael A) - HP 10/10 AC 17 d20=15 ; d20+5=25 ;
Monday September 20th, 2021 8:19:52 PM
Manolo agrees with Mole idea and help him to look for track although he didn't have the knowledge for tracking track and wilderness stuff.
He will stay with Mole for the time being.

Aid Another 15

Perception 25 ( natural 20 roll)

Mole; (RichP) AC 18; HP 11; CMD 13
Monday September 20th, 2021 9:11:15 PM
An addition-

"For arguments sake, let's say the fey did steal the sword, what would it need it for? It kills chickens just fine. Does it need it for larger prey? A human?" He says.

Mole gets a serious look on his face. "It's been harassing the farms, and we agreed to protect them from this thing. I've been saying we need to deal with the thing harassing the farms, connected or not. If one of the farmers is hurt or worse one of the children, who will be blamed for it? The fey? Or the group who took the job and then decided to abandon the job and go party at the festival instead."

"I don't care about a lost sword. I do care that we do what we can to protect the people that need protecting."

Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 10/10
Monday September 20th, 2021 10:53:33 PM
Ash nods to Mole. " Yes. Lets deal with the fey first. I'd like to do it tommorow perhaps, because i can prepare my spells again.

When having dinner, Ash picks, but doesn't eat much. He drinks with the others, but not in excess

DM Steve -- When we find this Nubby, I bet we'll find your sword.
Monday September 20th, 2021 11:01:18 PM
Torrynashkabbeth thinks things are all related and involve one or two fey. Retiring early, she plans a dance to greet the dawn and attract their attention.
Manolo comes to the realization that someone planned all of this. He is ready to sleep for the night. But when Mole talks about looking for tracks, Manolo tags along.
Evred agrees to look for the sword and asks what properties it has.
Ash agrees with Mole that protecting people is more important, but thinks they should retire for the night.
Mole argues that it will be more important to help people who might be threatened by this fey thing than to look for Grog’s sword. At the tavern, he suggests looking for tracks in the area around where the sword was stolen.
Mortimer thinks that when they find the fey they’ll find the sword. He heads to the tool shed after dinner to sleep. He finds something there. Highlight to display spoiler: {Sed ut perspiciatis, unde omnis iste natus error sit voluptatem accusantium doloremque laudantium, totam rem aperiam eaque ipsa, quae ab illo inventore veritatis et quasi architecto beatae vitae dicta sunt, explicabo. (OOC: I looked at the character sheet to see what Mortimer’s heirloom item is.)}
Loryn agrees to look for the sword. He suggests planning next steps over dinner, after which he heads to Minerva’s to sleep.

Before the group wanders off to their planning, Grog lets them know that the sword had been in his quarters in the back of the inn. Mole and Mortimer find lots of tracks in the area, what with the party being held, and Mole notices some tiny barefoot tracks that appear to have entered the building, noticeable because they are much smaller than anyone else around. That is as far as they get, however. The tracks disappear inside the building, and there are no animals around to ask.

As to the properties of the sword, Grog says it was a magical sword. He would sometimes connect in battle when he would not have expected to. (OOC: in game terms, figure a +2) When he carried it, he seemed a little more fortunate.

Aside from Mortimer, Evred, and Torryn, who grew up or work in the area, everyone heads to Minerva’s boarding house for the night. . . to sleep, and perhaps to consider where to start in the morning.

Morning comes after an uneventful night. Torrynashkabbeth finds the perfect spot for her dance, but does not (that she can tell) have an audience. The group meet before it is late. Breakfast comes with the room, and with her reputation as a cook Minerva is used to the occasional guest.

Evred Vost (Tanner) -- HP 16 | AC 15/11/13 | CMD 18 | F+5/R+2/W+0
Monday September 20th, 2021 11:59:07 PM
Evred seems thoughtful between spoonfuls of oatmeal. "I don't like our position. We don't have any leads on the fey. We don't know any motive. We don't know where to look. Do we just sit on our hands and wait for something else to happen?... Perhaps we could take the initiative. Act instead of react. We used to have a raccoon that was raiding our gardens. Old Mr. Ringtail was too wily to fall into any trap. Snares, pits, stakes, it didn't matter. He would walk right around them, or even trigger the trap on purpose like he was taunting us. He could sniff out any poison we used. Then one day my grandpa came by and told us what to do. We found an old hollowed log. We dropped a few shiny coins into the hollow, then drove nails through the wood to form a cone inside. That raccoon grabbed the coins and the nails stopped him from pulling out his fist. Didn'tatter that we were walking up to him with a club... He wouldn't let go."

He takes another spoonful. "Maybe we need to find something the fey would think is shiny."

Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.) - HP: 8/8. AC:13
Tuesday September 21st, 2021 1:06:01 AM
During the night, Mortimer tries to wait up. He's still shaken by his mysterious visitor that's possibly a long lost family member. He's never known of another living Margrave. He grew up as an orphan. Since running away from the orphanage at a young age, he's lived alone on the streets in various places, including Plateau City. The Tool Shed is the closest thing to a home he's ever had. Now his tiny home has been invaded by a mysterious relative bringing gifts ... a small fortune of gold, the most money he has ever seen.

As he contemplates all these things, sleep eventually claims him. Mortimer soon finds himself in a dream, sitting by a campfire surrounded by darkness. A stately man stands on the opposite side of the fire. The style of his clothing looks very ancient, but he can tell he is a man of means.

"Greetings young Mortimer, it's about time you got here. We've been waiting a long time."

From the darkness, an old woman speaks, "He's nothing but a pauper, common street rubbish!"

Another male with an adenoidal voice adds, "I don't know ... I always had a preference for working class boys..."

The man at the fire interrupts, "Enough ... I have the stage!" Mortimer's eyes dart about trying to see the others in the dark. The man then continues, "You have nothing to fear young man, we are all family here. My name is Ambrose Margrave, your distant relative. I assume you found our little gift we left for you. Consider it your inheritance. In our day, it would be a small fortune, but I imagine in your day, it's still enough to get you started. You've done ... ehh, well for yourself for not having a proper upbringing. We," and he looks back sternly into the darkness, "WE believe you have the potential for greatness. You can restore our family's name to greatness. So take the money, buy some decent clothes, clean yourself up ... run a comb through your hair ... have some pride young man, you are a Margrave!"

Ambrose walks over and stands next to Mortimer and says, "Every morning meditate to restore your power, the medallion will help you realize your potential. Make us proud Mortimer Margrave. Oh, and by the way, you can thank your great Aunt Adelaide for the gift box. It's her grave you dug up. Would you be so kind to restore her name to her tombstone."

The dream ends and Mortimer find himself awake and back in his tool shed. He needs a drink! He starts looking for a bottle.

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 9 AC:14
Tuesday September 21st, 2021 7:09:51 AM
Torryn didn't like Evred's story. The poor raccoon. Did it really deserve to die? Could raccoons be evil? She'd never heard of such, but decided to let the matter drop as the more important point was the point of the story. They needed to lure the Fey in. She'd tried just that, unsuccessfully, that morning. The exercise hadn't been a complete waste though, she felt better for having danced; particularly as the opportunity had been denied her yesterday. Sadly, she had no other ideas about luring in a misbehaving Fey creature. Perhaps she could have a chat with Agratha. The elderly halfling was a repository of wisdom, or so it seemed to Torryn. Of course, she'd have to pay for any questions with practice and meditation. It was all designed to help her focus, but Torryn struggled with it.

"I'm sorry; nothing springs to mind." she told Evred. "I can go ask my - er - teacher, Agratha. She might have an idea." She then offered hesitantly.

Loryn Glitterfall; AC 13 HP 8 Dan K d20+6=18 ;
Tuesday September 21st, 2021 9:03:20 AM
Loryn nods as both Evred and Mole speak. "I agree Mole, it does not make much sense at any level. Then throw in that if it is the Fey, how'd it know about the sword and where to get it?" Those tracks you found by the Inn though, do seem to point at it, but it also might just be the accomplice and there is a master pulling the strings. "

The gnome fusses with an herb, grinding it up and sprinkling it into his oatmeal and adds a dash of milk.
Cook 18 Taking a bite he molls it about, "Well that works to add a bit of creamy mint nicely"

Looking back to the conversation. "I agree Mole, first priority is to get back to the farmers. And that might be our starting move Evred. We split up a bit to cover more ground and set up some watches out where the food is."

Spells
4-1st- Color Spray, Magic Weapon
x 0 - Detect Magic, Read Magic, Mage Hand, Message

Gnome: 1/day Dancing Lights, Prestidigitation, Ghost Sound, Speak with Animals

Sorcerer Ray 7/ day 30' 1d6

Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.) - HP: 8/8. AC:13
Tuesday September 21st, 2021 4:20:11 PM
Before breakfast, Mortimer is up early to make his way to the local bath house. He won't care if the water isn't warm yet. The cold never bothered him anyway. If the local shops aren't open by that time, he'll have to wait until after breakfast to buy some new clothes. Yes.. today is a new beginning ... a new Mortimer Margrave.

Manolo (Michael A) - HP 10/10 AC 17
Tuesday September 21st, 2021 8:32:06 PM
Manolo wakes up tired a little bit, tracking was not easy for him.
He will let Mole inform about the findings in the night.
He goes to take a short stroll outside to refresh only to come back for breakfast with a beginning of an idea.
"Should we search for that little menace or perhaps someone has a better idea how or if we can.....lure him to us....like fishing or hunting?"

Mole; (RichP) AC 18; HP 11; CMD 13
Tuesday September 21st, 2021 10:30:08 PM
Mole is up before the sun. He spends the first rays of the sun outside the walls in the tree line. There he spends his time meditating with the earth.

He returns just after sunrise. At breakfast, he has smoked meats, eggs, and an ale.

Evred's tells his story and Mole's demeanor changes complete. He shoves away his plate, then stands up and walks up to Evred. "So, let me get this straight. Your idea of a comparison is comparing an intelligent fey who likes to kill for sport to a raccoon who takes because it's hungry. Is that what yur saying!" He says raising his voice stepping in on Evred. "So it's fine to kill an animal because it's inconvenient to you! !@#$%^& !@#$)(&*!" He says slinging dwarven insults at the centaur.

He slams his mug of ale down at the table in front of the young centaur before stomping out of the tavern. His knuckles clenched white and shaking slightly.

Scene 3: Bump in the Night

DM Steve -- Maybe we need to find something the fey would think is shiny.
Tuesday September 21st, 2021 11:06:56 PM
Loryn agrees with Evred and with Mole. He talks about splitting up and watching some of the farmers.
Torrynashkabbeth doesn’t like Evred’s story -- although his conclusion is something she already tried to do. She considers asking Agratha for advice.
Manolo encourages Mole to explain what they found the previous night. He suggests looking for the creature or creatures if they can’t figure out a way to attract it.
Evred talks about finding something that will attract the fey creatures so the group can nab them. He illustrates this with a tale.
Mole worries why fey creatures would be stealing a sword. He gets quite upset at Evred’s story.
Ash is quiet.
Mortimer dreams of his family heirloom. In the morning, he acts a bit uncharacteristic -- for example, he bathes.

After a day of variously asking for advice, trying to think what might attract the creatures, looking for signs of them, and staking out likely-seeming targets, the group has had no luck. On the good side, the day itself is uneventful.

That night, however, while each is dressed for bed. . .

Loryn, Manolo, Mole, and Ash Highlight to display spoiler: {Very loud screams reach you from downstairs. If you respond, indicate what you do to prepare, as that may take some time.}

Torryn, Evred, and Mortimer On a perception DC 12 Highlight to display spoiler: {You hear screams echoing across the village in the middle of the night. If you respond, indicate what you do to prepare, as that may take some time. On top of that, it will take you 1d4+1 rounds to locate and reach the sound.}

Evred Vost (Tanner) -- HP 16 | AC 15/11/13 | CMD 18 | F+5/R+2/W+0 d20=4 ;
Tuesday September 21st, 2021 11:47:04 PM
Evred continues preparing for bed.

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 9 AC:14 d20=12 ; d4=3 ;
Wednesday September 22nd, 2021 4:37:07 AM
Toryrn awoke with a start. She blinked and then flung back the covers to hop out of bed. The nubby! Surely that was it's work. She pulled on her boots and slipped her tunic over her head, wasting no time with the pants. Fortunately it was dark and the tunic was long enough, albeit just, to accord her sufficient modesty. Snatching up her spear she quickly made her way outside.

The sound that had disturbed her sleep echoed still and that made following it, not quite as straightforward as she'd hoped. Nonetheless, it did not take her long to arrive at the scene of the 'crime'.

OOC: Perception total: 13.
Locating total: 4 rounds.

Mole; (RichP) AC 18; HP 11; CMD 13 d20+8=17 ;
Wednesday September 22nd, 2021 10:13:42 AM
Mole wakes with the sounds of screams. He grabs his warhammer and heads down the stairs. He's wearing his shirt and breeches with his hammer in one hand.

Perception DC 17; delay 2 round.

Loryn Glitterfall; AC 13 HP 8 Dan K
Wednesday September 22nd, 2021 10:42:34 AM
Loryn arches an eye at Mole's outburst at Evred's raccoon story. The dwarf people were such a serious lot about whatever they had as their focus and it would appear that Mole's focus was the natural wold.

The scream causes Loryn to bolt upright, where he pauses for a second to let his waking mind classify the scream as something that indeed woke him up and not just a dream. the gnome hops out of bed and heads out the door. No time to dress, he exits and goes for the stairs.

Spells
4-1st- Color Spray, Magic Weapon
x 0 - Detect Magic, Read Magic, Mage Hand, Message

Gnome: 1/day Dancing Lights, Prestidigitation, Ghost Sound, Speak with Animals

Sorcerer Ray 7/ day 30' 1d6

Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 10/10
Wednesday September 22nd, 2021 12:26:10 PM
Ash is pulling back the covers when he hears it. Luckily his night clothes are about as protective of his robes and he has no need for weapons. His spells are intact.

He opens his rooms door and heads downstairs.

Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.) - HP: 8/8. AC:13 d20=4 ;
Wednesday September 22nd, 2021 12:37:51 PM
(Perception: 4)

"What an uneventful day ... other than the new clothes and being thoroughly scrubbed. Maybe I should move into the Inn with the rest. It's hardly dignified, or clean, living in a Tool Shed."

He hears nothing.

Manolo (Michael A) - HP 10/10 AC 17 d20+5=12 ;
Wednesday September 22nd, 2021 8:19:11 PM
Manolo quickly puts some of his bed sheets together to cover his under parts and takes his dagger.
He rushes the stairs to see what is going on.

Perception 12

DM Steve -- What an uneventful day ...
Wednesday September 22nd, 2021 11:12:04 PM
Loryn pauses long enough to process what he heard, then heads downstairs.
Manolo wraps himself in sheets and grabs a dagger before heading downstairs.
Mole heads downstairs, hammer in hand.
Mortimer considers moving out of the tool shed.
Evred prepares for bed.
Torrynashkabbeth quickly dresses and goes looking for the screams.
Ash heads downstairs.

As he heads downstairs, Ash (lucky enough to be first in line) is entangled in a rope.

Loryn, Manolo, and Mole are behind Ash, on the landing. They see Ash entangled in one rope on the stairs, and hear Minerva screaming. Ash can see Minerva entangled in another rope at the door from the common room to the kitchen. Upstairs in the back, a door slams.

Two lizards, each about the size of Loryn, are tearing around in the common room. They seem to be upset by Minerva’s screaming. There is an acrid smell in the room.

Ash Highlight to display spoiler: {Ash may escape the snare with a DC 23 escape artist or strength check. To cast a spell, he must make a concentration check (DC 15 + spell level) or lose the spell Someone with a knife might cut the rope.}

Torryn Highlight to display spoiler: {Torryn is able to identify that the commotion is coming from Minerva’s boarding house. It will take her another three rounds to get there.}

Evred and Mortimer Perception DC 8 Highlight to display spoiler: {You hear screams echoing across the village in the middle of the night. If you respond, indicate what you do to prepare, as that may take some time. On top of that, it will take you 1d4+1 rounds to locate and reach the sound.}

Loryn, Manolo, Mole, and Ash ... MAP LINK

Evred Vost (Tanner) -- HP 16 | AC 15/11/13 | CMD 18 | F+5/R+2/W+0
Wednesday September 22nd, 2021 11:12:14 PM
OOC: Everyone is rushing to help, but no one is alerting anyone else. :)

Evred lies down on the oversized chaise lounge that most centaurs use as a bed. He starts his progressive relaxation mantra that he learned in the guard. A good soldier never wastes an opportunity to sleep.

Evred Vost (Tanner) -- HP 16 | AC 15/11/13 | CMD 18 | F+5/R+2/W+0 d20=3 ;
Wednesday September 22nd, 2021 11:16:06 PM
OOC: Ninja'ed by 10 seconds! Perception check 3. Lol.

Evred's consciousness starts to become fuzzy.

Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.) - HP: 8/8. AC:13 d20=8 ; d6=5 ; d4+1=4 ;
Thursday September 23rd, 2021 12:06:39 AM
(Perception: 8)

"What's this?!" One of the qualities of living next to a cemetery is that it stays quiet. "What the!" Your neighbors don't make any noise. That's why the slightest sound of alarm will get you to notice. "OH SHIKES, THE NUBBY!"

Street life has never afforded young Mortimer the practice of wearing night clothes to bed. He simply slept in whatever he was wearing or whatever degree of nakedness he felt comfortable to be at the time. However on this night, after buying his first new articles of clothing, he decided to fold them up neatly on the stool and lounge in his old, threadbare clothes. It's during this process he heard the scream. He immediately grabs his sickle from the work bench and heads out running toward the noise. He would be naked if it wasn't for his oversized shirt that thankfully conceals his 'undercarriage'.

He runs rather swiftly, even while barefooted. (Will take 4 rounds.)

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 9 AC:14
Thursday September 23rd, 2021 3:41:50 AM
The sound, it seemed to her, was some distance away. So she broke into a steady lope. There was no point in running flat out and arriving out of breath and incapable of action. If she passed the guard house en route, she take note of whether the noises had roused them. If it hadn't she intended to rap on the door with the butt of her spear. There'd be no time for anything else, but it should prove sufficient. Most likely though, they'd be up and investigating even before she got to the incident - whatever that was.

Mole; (RichP) AC 18; HP 11; CMD 13 d20+7=17 ;
Thursday September 23rd, 2021 8:11:00 AM
Mole sees the lizards and tries to determine which kind they are. "Bruidhinn 'ri Beathaichean" he says.

"Are you hungry?" Mole says to the lizards. "Leave her alone. I'll get you food and take you home." He says to the lizards.

Casts Speak w/ Animals - duration 10r.
Knowledge- nature DC17

Loryn Glitterfall; AC 13 HP 8 Dan K d20=5 ;
Thursday September 23rd, 2021 9:40:18 AM
Loryn whirls as the door slams upstairs and tries to get a location for the sound. He fails miserably [perception 5]
"Manolo! Mole and I got this. Go chase that door slam up here somewhere!"

"Ash, when you get a minute, how about getting Evred up"

Loryn casts Message and whispers to Minerva. "Hold on Minerva. We'll get the lizards taken care of. What is that smell?"

And he heads 15' down the stairs

Spells
4-1st- Color Spray, Magic Weapon
x 0 - Detect Magic, Read Magic, Mage Hand, x-Message

Gnome: 1/day Dancing Lights, Prestidigitation, Ghost Sound, Speak with Animals

Sorcerer Ray 7/ day 30' 1d6

Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 10/10
Thursday September 23rd, 2021 1:06:42 PM
Ash looks at Loryn with a perplexed look. " My apologies but i seem to be entangled by this god fossken rope for the time being. Someone else shall have to wake him. In the meantime, perhaps helping cut me out?"

DM Steve -- Someone else shall have to wake him.
Thursday September 23rd, 2021 10:51:54 PM

Ash asks for help getting out of this rope.
Loryn yells for Mole and Manolo to investigate the door upstairs, sends Minerva a reassuring message, and climbs over Ash as he heads into the room.
Torrynashkabbeth runs towards the noise, ready to alert the guard if necessary.
Mortimer hears the commotion, barely, and thinks of the nubby. He grabs a weapon and runs to find it.
Evred makes use of his opportunity to sleep.
Mole casts a spell so he can talk to the lizards, and offers them some food.
Manolo is quiet.

OOC: You should be able to move your characters on the map. I have moved Loryn as described.

Mole recognizes the lizards as magical beasts, as opposed to ordinary ones, but has no idea what they are capable of. Because of this, he realizes speak with animals will not work on them, and does not waste the spell. If they were ordinary animals, he would say they are attracted by something, the way they are acting and using their tongues. The lizards advance on Minerva.

Loryn can clearly see the scene now that he is downstairs.

Minerva suddenly chokes off, scared and trying not to move. She has a broom that she can’t use effectively while entangled, and no other defense.

Torryn Perception DC 15 Highlight to display spoiler: {As Torryn runs in the direction of the boarding house where many of your friends are staying, she notices a figure -- an adult human-sized figure -- slip down the back stairs and into the shadows.} Two more rounds before she gets there.

Mortimer Highlight to display spoiler: {Mortiner is able to identify that the commotion is coming from Minerva’s boarding house. It will take him another four rounds to get there.}

Evred Perception DC 4 Highlight to display spoiler: {Evred hears the distant screams that were echoing across the village in the middle of the night suddenly stop. The silence is startling. If he responds, indicate what he does to prepare, as that may take some time. On top of that, it will take him 1d2+1 rounds to locate and reach the sound.}

Manolo (Michael A) - HP 10/10 AC 17
Thursday September 23rd, 2021 11:33:24 PM
Manolo is at shock but quickly snaps out of it and rushes to investigate quickly the source of sound of the door slam.
'I am in no match to fight '. he thinks as he realizes he is not wearing any armor.

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 9 AC:14 d20=20 ;
Friday September 24th, 2021 7:20:00 AM
OOC: Perception 22!

It was instinct. Those instincts told her to follow the dark apparition slinking away. After all, who else but a ne'er-do-well would be behaving so furtively at this hour? Following someone like that into the shadows probably wasn't the wisest course of action to take, but Torryn had never been known for her patience or caution. It was one of the reasons she's been referred to Agratha for lessons. Those lessons were forgotten as she gave chase, trusting her friends to manage the situation at the boarding house. She briefly hoped that she was making the right choice, but it was a fleeting doubt that evaporated with her next step.

Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 10/10 d20+6=15 ;
Friday September 24th, 2021 1:00:28 PM
Ash sighs.... :"Ahh...I'll do it myself I guess. " Ash begins casting enlarge person on himself, but the ropes bind his hands a little too much and and he messes up.

Concentration 15

Mole; (RichP) AC 18; HP 11; CMD 13 d20+8=9 ;
Friday September 24th, 2021 7:27:57 PM
Recognizing the magical beast, Mole saves his spell and takes Loryn's suggestion. He heads to investigate the door. He opens the door with one hand, hammer in the other. As the door opens, he gazes around the room looking for the source of the commotion (or not).

Perception DC 9

Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.) - HP: 8/8. AC:13
Friday September 24th, 2021 9:23:29 PM
Mortimer continues his run. The fact that he is barefoot is of little concern. For most of his life, he hasn't owned a pair of shoes. If he had an old pair shoes when he went to bed, they were usually gone by the time he woke up. Street kids are animals.

His destination is almost in sight, Mortimer notices something odd. A pig and a duck walking side by side, inspecting various water puddles along their way. 'The night life of animals isn't much different,' he thinks with a grin. They seemed like the best of friends. Mortimer takes back his previous thought ... Street kids are worse than animals.

He races past them and the pig and duck stop a stare. They give each other a look, shrug and then continue on their way.

(Trip: 2 of 4 rounds)

DM Steve -- I am in no match to fight d20=7 ;
Saturday September 25th, 2021 3:00:45 PM
Mortimer continues running towards the boarding house.
Mole goes to investigate the door slam.
Ash tries to cast a spell, but it unable to concentrate.
Manolo goes to investigate the door slam.
Torrynashkabbeth chases after the figure she saw while it was on the back steps, which then walked down into the shadows.
Loryn is quiet in the room with the lizards.
Evred is quiet in his quarters.

Mole and Manolo have a number of upstairs doors to choose from, but only one leads outside and would have allowed someone to hide in the hallway without someone likely bumping into them while investigating the noise. Mole opens the door, but sees no one on the terrace there.

Loryn and Ash realize the front door is open, and has been since they arrived. The lizards are still running around, but staying pretty close to Minerva, who is obviously upset.

Torryn adjusts her course to follow a figure but loses sight of the figure unless she makes a DC 17 perception check and Highlight to display spoiler: {sees that it slips into the back door of the boarding house on the ground level.}

Mortimer Perception DC 24 Highlight to display spoiler: {As Mortimer runs in the direction of the boarding house where many of your friends are staying, he notices a figure -- a gnome-like figure in a dark cape -- staring at the open front door of the house, watching. The odd thing is, when it turns towards Mortimer it appears to have three eyes. It runs off when it sees him.}

Ballo enters the boarding house through the back door, out of breath. He appears to have very hastily dressed.

Evred is roused from his sleep by a banging on the door.

MAP LINK

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 9 AC:14 d20=1 ;
Sunday September 26th, 2021 7:46:09 AM
OOC: 1! I rolled a 1. Typical :) Perception: 3.

Torryn's quarry vanished into the darkness almost as soon as she had elected to pursue it; so she abandoned that notion and instead made for the stairs. That had been the stranger's mode of egress. She'd use it to see what mischief he or she had been up to. The only thing she felt remotely certain about, was that it wasn't a child.

With spear in hand she quickly made her way.

Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 10/10
Sunday September 26th, 2021 8:26:51 PM
"Don't know if its some sort of ambush, but the front door is wide open" Ash yells to the others around him.

He started questioning his decision of not using weapons very deeply at the moment.

Evred Vost (Tanner) -- HP 16 | AC 15/11/13 | CMD 18 | F+5/R+2/W+0
Sunday September 26th, 2021 9:59:55 PM
Evred bolts awake, throws off his covers, and staggers across the room. "What!? What is it!?"

Manolo (Michael A) - HP 10/10 AC 17 d20+5=6 ;
Sunday September 26th, 2021 11:01:49 PM
Manolo barely can stay focused on the task of finding something elusive or sneaky.
He turns to Mole and asks "Do you see anything suspicious ? any ideas?"

Loryn Glitterfall; AC 13 HP 8 Dan K
Monday September 27th, 2021 9:58:47 AM
"Ash, check outside real quick. Dont get killed."

Loryn steps forward 5' and Hoping he has his angles correct. Loryn sends forth a cone a brilliant and blinding color. Cast Color Spray
Will Save DC 16

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.

Spells
4-1st- x-Color Spray, Magic Weapon
x 0 - Detect Magic, Read Magic, Mage Hand, x-Message

Gnome: 1/day Dancing Lights, Prestidigitation, Ghost Sound, Speak with Animals

Sorcerer Ray 7/ day 30' 1d6

Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.) - HP: 8/8. AC:13 d20=16 ;
Monday September 27th, 2021 10:17:07 AM
(Perception: 16. Mortimer has no chance to make a perception check that high.)

Mortimer doesn't notice anything along his way and he runs toward the boarding house.

(Trip: 3 of 4 rounds)

Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 10/10
Monday September 27th, 2021 2:32:00 PM
"Loryn" Ash politely starts. " I am still stuck in this rope. I would gladly check, once i get out "

Mole; (RichP) AC 18; HP 11; CMD 13 d20+8=20 ;
Monday September 27th, 2021 9:39:28 PM
Mole sees nothing. Suddenly he clenches his fist and slams it on the railing before throwing out a slew of dwarven curses. "Bah!" He says. "Short-lives'd," he says making up a word tense, "always gettin' their panties in a bunch! Got me all wurk up too!" He continues obviously mad that he let a dang fey get one over on him. "I'm not chasin' this thing 'round. Just what it wants."

He goes back to the his room and checks his things. He gathers his belongings and dons his armor. After getting ready, he will check each room in turn.

Perception DC 20

DM Steve -- I would gladly check, once i get out. d20+2=6 ; d20+2=20 ; d8=4 ; d20=17 ; d3=1 ;
Monday September 27th, 2021 9:56:33 PM
Manolo doesn’t see anything, and asks what Mole sees.
Evred wakes and answers his door.
Mole gets upset with the fey, and decides he needs to check each of the upstairs rooms. First he prepares in case he needs to fight.
Mortimer continues running toward the house. He will be able to enter the house next round (not this one, at K-9).
Ash points out that the front door is open. When Loryn suggests he look outside, Ash points out that he is still stuck in the rope.
Loryn tells Ash to check outside, and casts color spray at the lizards.
Torrynashkabbeth changes her approach and heads for the stairs she saw the figure come down. She nears them, and will be able to enter the house next round (not this one, at G-19).

One lizard is affected by Loryn’s spell, and unable to act. The other responds with an electrical display, which arcs in its area and hits Minerva. Minerva yelps and bites her lip. Ballo reacts by trying to kick the lizard, and manages to connect.

Upstairs, Mole goes to his room to get ready. His room is clear. Manolo is left to help Mole or try some other course of action.

Mortimer finds that he is not the only one headed for the boarding house. The guy who made some sort of arrangement with Evred at the party is also going there. It looks like they will arrive at the same time.

Torryn is coming from a different direction, but also sees Evred’s friend now.

---

Evred finds a pale woman at his door, demanding that he come along before someone gets hurt. He may recall her name is Agatha. ”Heorstan’s headed to Minerva’s now, since that’s where the screaming was, but really we don’t know that that’s where they are. He says he has them trained, but has he really trained them to act against their nature?”

MAP LINK

=====
Lizard (red): no damage, not reacting
Lizard (black): (1) damage
Minerva: (4) damage

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 9 AC:14
Tuesday September 28th, 2021 5:30:15 AM
It was disappointing, to lose sight of suspicious, shadowy figure, but there was no helping the loss. Whoever it was, was vanished into the night. Torryn put it from her mind as she rushed to climb the stairs. She'd be inside soon enough and would then likely need to have her wits about her. Perhaps a trap lay in wait. If so, she'd likely have to trust to her swift reactions and dancer's excellent balance.

Of course, many of her new friends were within the boarding house. Surely they would by this time be fully in control of the situation. They all seemed so competent. Her sole contribution to any problem was to run in and hit it! Hence her lessons; she needed to learn to focus, to think and to think before acting. That was easier said than done for a "Fey" creature such as herself who delighted in the instinctual and emotional reaction to music and other enchanting stimuli, rather than allowing her conscious mind top analyse and quantify such things. Perhaps whatever lay within would be "quantified" by her spear!

Manolo (Michael A) - HP 10/10 AC 17 d20=4 ;
Tuesday September 28th, 2021 8:22:12 PM
Manolo help Mole for the time being

Aid another 4

Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.) - HP: 8/8. AC:13 d20=14 ;
Tuesday September 28th, 2021 8:24:48 PM
As Mortimer finally arrives at the boarding house, he meets Evred's friend getting there at the same time. He quickly asks, "Hey, what's happenin'? Heard a scream, I did!" He doesn't wait for an answer and continues to the door.

(Don't know which door Mortimer's approached.)

If the door is closed, he will make a quick listen. He thinks it's very possible that people are taking refuge inside and as soon as he opens the door he'll find a dozen arrows in his chest. But then again, if the big bad is inside, he doesn't want to alert them. Mortimer takes a quick listen. (Perception: 14)

He learned at a young age, not to go running in until you know what you're getting into.

Loryn Glitterfall; AC 13 HP 8 Dan K d20+2=16 ; d6=3 ;
Tuesday September 28th, 2021 9:12:33 PM
"Serious? You're still..." Loryn lets it go and sticks to the greater task at hand. The spark from the lizard gave hima bit of a start. "Hey those might be a bit more dangerous than I was thinking." he says aloud to no one in particular.

Loryn extends a hand and sends forth a ray of highly corrosive acid into the lizard still threatening Minerva
Ranged Touch attack Hit AC 16 Dmg 3

The gnome glances about, wondering how he ended up the only one out of the crew that ended up here facing the electric lizards, but that was where he was and so he would save the day

Spells
4-1st- x-Color Spray, Magic Weapon
x 0 - Detect Magic, Read Magic, Mage Hand, x-Message

Gnome: 1/day Dancing Lights, Prestidigitation, Ghost Sound, Speak with Animals

Sorcerer Ray 7/ day 30' 1d6 x

Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 10/10 d20+6=14 ;
Tuesday September 28th, 2021 9:41:49 PM
Ash pulls at the ropes, but the time spent studying and not being active are making it next to impossible.

Mole; (RichP) AC 18; HP 11; CMD 13 d20+2=6 ;
Tuesday September 28th, 2021 10:39:52 PM
Mole finishes getting his gear on and checking his stuff when he hears Loryn's shout. He steps to the top of the stairs. "Thought ya had it handled." He says. Raising his hand, he says "Searbhag" and a bolt of green fizzy goo flies from his outstretched hand towards the lizard causing the shock. The bolt streaks down towards the lizards, but Mole's aim was off and with a sizzle it strikes the floor behind the magical creature.

range touch AC 6

DM Steve -- Hey those might be a bit more dangerous than I was thinking. d20=6 ; d20+4=11 ; d20=16 ; d8=3 ; d4=1 ;
Tuesday September 28th, 2021 11:05:53 PM
Torrynashkabbeth reached the outside of the house, disappointed to have lost sight of the figure. Next post Torryn can enter the door at G-19.
Manolo helps Mole. Given Mole’s actions, Manolo has the chance to grab an item from one of the rooms.
Mole steps to the top of the stairs and casts a spell, which misses the lizard. Donning even light armor normally takes minutes, not rounds. Mole has had time only to grab his shield, his weapon, or his backpack.
Ash tugs at the rope, but remains stuck.
Mortimer questions Heorstan as they approach the house. The front door is wide open. He can see Ash tied up inside. Next post Mortimner can enter the door at K-9.
Loryn seems surprised that Ash is still tangled, and that the lizards are not what he expected. He casts another spell on the lizard that’s moving about.
Evred is somewhere else talking to Agatha.

Ballo has at least succeeded in drawing the lizard’s attention away from Minerva. Having done so, he’s not sure that’s working out. Ballo tries another unarmed attack on the lizard. He misses. The lizard takes the opportunity to fight back, failing to bite Ballo but shocking him anyway. Ballo jumps away, and suffers only minor damage.

The second lizard looks around, but still does not react.

Outside, Heorstan tells Mortimer that he's looking for two escaped lizards.

MAP LINK

=====
Lizard (red): no damage, not reacting
Lizard (black): 3+(1) damage
Ballo: (2) damage
Minerva: (4) damage

Evred Vost (Tanner) -- HP 16 | AC 15/11/13 | CMD 18 | F+5/R+2/W+0
Tuesday September 28th, 2021 11:09:32 PM
Evred, while still rubbing the sand from his eyes, groggily follows Agatha. "Yes! Yes. Show me where to go."

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 9 AC:14
Wednesday September 29th, 2021 7:14:36 AM
Torryn bounded up the stairs. There were times when it was a definite advantage to be small. She really didn't have a great deal of weight to shift, so made light work of the ascent. (Assuming this door is closed) She twisted the handle and pushed, but did not immediately enter. Suspecting a trap she angled the base of her spear forward and let that lead the way. She did her best to compose her thoughts and become unhurried. Surely the matter was by now, well in hand. She needn't be her usual precipitous self. That's what she told herself in an effort to school herself to caution. It wasn't really working though, as
all she wanted to do was charge through the room to discover what lay beyond.

Manolo (Michael A) - HP 10/10 AC 17 d20=18 ;
Wednesday September 29th, 2021 9:26:15 PM
In his haziness to help Mole he find an object in his hands.

OOC: rolled a dice to allow the DM to choose something random....unless Rich has an item he thinks might help (:

Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.) - HP: 8/8. AC:13 d20+3=14 ;
Wednesday September 29th, 2021 9:37:41 PM
Mortimer is perplexed and a bit judgmental at what he sees. He looks at Ash in his night clothes and struggling within the bondage of rope. "Really mate?," as he steps in the room, "you really shoulda stayed in your room with that getup...," then suddenly, "SHIKES!," he cries as he's immediately startled by the lizards.

He then turns to Heorstan, outside the door, and says, "Hey buddy ... your missing lizards are in here. Come get 'em!"

Mortimer walks over to Ash and starts helping him out of the rope. "We can't have people see ya in this."
(Escape Artist: 14)

DM Steve -- ... your missing lizards are in here. d20=20 ; d20+4=15 ; d3=1 ; d4=1 ; d8=2 ; d20=3 ; d20=18 ; d3=3 ; d12=2 ;
Wednesday September 29th, 2021 11:10:43 PM

Torrynashkabbeth bounds upstairs and enters the door, carefully.
Evred follows Agatha.
Manolo grabs something to help Mole.
Mortimer notices Ash before he notices the lizards. He tries to help Ash out of the rope.
Mole, Loryn, and Ash watch events unfold.

The appearance of more people does not stop Ballo and the lizard from scrapping. Ballo kicks the lizard -- the lizard bites Ballo when he kicks. Then, for good measure, it shocks him again. He is not quick enough to avoid any of the effect this time.

The second lizard starts to scurry off, but is caught by Heorstan when he comes into the room. Clearly he is experienced at handling them. ”Please don’t hurt them! Really, they’re pretty harmless.” Heorstan is wearing thick leather gauntlets and a leather apron.

Mortimer discovers the rope is really difficult to undo. Ash remains stuck.

Torryn finds herself in a bedroom. It must be Minerva’s, it’s a bit bigger than the ones her friends have. She does not see any obvious intruders, but does see a spiral staircase to the lower floor.

Manolo finds himself holding Mole’s warhammer.

Agatha points out to Evred where they’re headed. He recognizes it as the boarding house most of his friends are staying at.

MAP LINK

=====
Lizard (red): no damage
Lizard (black): 3+(2) damage
Ballo: 1+(4) damage
Minerva: (4) damage

Evred Vost (Tanner) -- HP 16 | AC 15/11/13 | CMD 18 | F+5/R+2/W+0
Wednesday September 29th, 2021 11:45:29 PM
Evred gaalops toward the boarding house

(Move 150ft)

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 9 AC:14
Thursday September 30th, 2021 4:00:40 AM
No trap; that was enough to encourage Torryn's usual precipitous haste. Seeing the spiral staircase, she headed immediately towards, for plainly the originator of the screams was not within this room. She descended with the same speed that she'd ascended the steps outside.

Loryn Glitterfall; AC 13 HP 8 Dan K
Thursday September 30th, 2021 8:22:12 AM
"Dont hurt them? OK well you need to get your lizards out of here then and I need to ask where do you keep them and why are they not still there?"

The owner of the lizards is there, and Loryn hopes that means the end of any real threat to Minerva or anyone else. The gnome does not have much to offer in the way of catching the last lizard without possibly taking down others and decides to move over to Minerva and escort her back out of the area

Spells
4-1st- x-Color Spray, Magic Weapon
x 0 - Detect Magic, Read Magic, Mage Hand, x-Message

Gnome: 1/day Dancing Lights, Prestidigitation, Ghost Sound, Speak with Animals

Sorcerer Ray 7/ day 30' 1d6 x

Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 10/10
Thursday September 30th, 2021 10:53:13 AM
Ash laughs to himself about his predicament, he pictured his family recieving a letter from the WLA talking about his heroic demise at the hands of a rope.

Manolo (Michael A) - HP 10/10 AC 17
Thursday September 30th, 2021 9:00:09 PM
Manolo doesn't know what do to.
He asks Mole "W/hat do we do now ? HA ?"

He shouts to the others "Are you ok there ?"

Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.) - HP: 8/8. AC:13 d20+3=23 ;
Thursday September 30th, 2021 10:26:06 PM
"This rope is good and snug, top tier, it is. An impressive skill you have." he says to Ash. With a bit more manipulation, Mortimer thinks he's solved this puzzle. (Escape Artist: 23, natural 20)

"You know what this is ... this lizard wingding is a distraction. The real mark is somewhere else!"

Mortimer looks up after hearing someone yelling upstairs. "What's goin' on upstairs?"

DM Steve -- Don't hurt them? d20=7 ; d20=4 ; d8=3 ; d8=3 ;
Thursday September 30th, 2021 11:03:21 PM

Mortimer, with some help from Ash, manages to untangle Ash from the rope. He guesses that this is all a distraction from something else.
Torrynashkabbeth sees the room seems safe, and heads for the staircase.
Manolo doesn’t know what to do.
Evred gallops toward the boarding house, leaving Agatha behind. With his centaur movement, and lack of armor to slow him, he may enter the house, at K-9, with 20’ of movement left for the round.
Loryn goes to help Minerva. He has some words for Heorstan.
Ash finds humor in his predicament.
Mole is quiet.

Torryn finds herself in the kitchen, next to a door. The door is ajar, and on the other side of it are Minerva, a lizard, her friends, and some other people.

Heorstan seems to be discomfited. When Loryn speaks to him, he almost mumbles his reply, ”Well, my hands are full here. I’m going to need some help.” The lizards are large enough that he would not be able to handle both at the same time. ”Perhaps a crate or a net?” At least the lizard he holds and is gently stroking is keeping calm.

Ballo backs off from the other lizard, but the lizard is still riled up. It tries to head away from the wall, but finds Loryn in its way. Loryn gets zapped. (Loryn, take 3 points of damage, or only 2 with a DC 12 Reflex save.) ”Incredible menaces, they are,” says Ballo.

A woman enters the house through the front door. She looks around at the goings on and keeps her distance. She’s loud enough to be clearly heard, though. ”So this is why you’re running around in the middle of the night?”

MAP LINK

=====
Lizard (red): no damage
Lizard (black): 3+(2) damage
Ballo: 1+(4) damage
Minerva: (4) damage

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 9 AC:14 d20=11 ;
Friday October 1st, 2021 5:34:14 AM
Torryn unhesitatingly went through the door.

"What did I miss?" She enquired with a smile. Then looking at the lizard she raised a finger to her lips and Shushed it. "Bad lizard. Grown ups are talking."

OOC Animal handling 11+3 =14, but not modified for lack of familiarity with lizards.

Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 10/10 d20+6=26 ;
Friday October 1st, 2021 11:57:56 AM
Ash sighs.... and really concentrates. He begins casting, and unleashes his spell. (Concentration 26, nat 20). He casts Enlarge Person on himself, hoping his increased size will break the ropes.

AC 13 HP 6/8 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K d20+2=13 ;
Friday October 1st, 2021 12:50:27 PM
Loryn winces a bit and lets out a small curse from the pain. "All done now" the gnome steps back and lets the lizard have another brilliant colored blast.
5' move cast Color Spray at the lizard
Will DC 16
Reflex 13

Spells
4-1st- xx-Color Spray, Magic Weapon
x 0 - Detect Magic, Read Magic, Mage Hand, x-Message

Gnome: 1/day Dancing Lights, Prestidigitation, Ghost Sound, Speak with Animals

Sorcerer Ray 7/ day 30' 1d6 x.

DM Steve -- What did I miss? d20+2=15 ;
Saturday October 2nd, 2021 12:59:44 PM
Torrynashkabbeth goes into the common room of the boarding house, and tries to control the lizard.
Loryn casts color spray on the still-active lizard.
Ash enlarges and frees himself from the ropes.
Mortimer, Evred, Mole, and Manolo are quiet.

Heorstan holds one lizard. The other is one stunned by the color spray, and Torryn can easily wrangle it now. It seems as if this particular drama is done.

Ballo is angry, and Minerva is scared, but they and Loryn realize they are not as hurt as they had thought. (The shocks were non-lethal damage.) Ballo blames Heorstan for damage the lizards have done. Minerva just wants them gone for now.

Rena, the woman who entered the room last, starts scolding Heorstan. Heorstan protests that the lizards could not have gotten out on their own. Agatha shows up shortly, and reminds Heorstan that they had talked about what needed to happen if the lizards caused trouble. Heorstan does not want to get rid of his pets, but after some time agrees to do so. For Rena’s sake, as Agatha put it, reminding Heorstan what strife the lizards had already caused his wife. Heorstan decides to sell them in another town, not to release them around here. He just needs some help carrying them both home to their cages.

None of this does anything to calm Minerva, who -- after all -- was caught in a snare that someone had set inside her house.

=====
Lizard (red): no damage
Lizard (black): 3+(2) damage
Ballo: 1+(4) damage
Minerva: (4) damage

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 9 AC:14
Saturday October 2nd, 2021 2:18:32 PM
"Hey, is this a good time to mention that I saw someone sneaking down the stairs at the back? I went to follow, figuring whoever it was, was responsible for ....well, ..um...this." she shrugged. "But they vanished into the night. So, maybe it's a diversion or something?" She didn't really know what else to suggest. Carrying giant lizards didn't really appeal. there were certainly stronger people than herself in the group.

"Maybe I could patrol for a bit rather than just head straight back?" She looked at Evred for confirmation, after all, she wasn't a guard or anything official.

Mole; (RichP) AC 18; HP 11; CMD 13 d20+8=19 ;
Saturday October 2nd, 2021 3:15:53 PM
(OOC: Sorry for the missing posts. been really busy)

Mole abandons trying to get ready. He can hear more voices and it sounds as if they are familiar with the creatures. "Manolo, go help out. I'll be right behind ya."

Perception DC 19

Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.) - HP: 8/8. AC:13
Saturday October 2nd, 2021 5:06:15 PM
(ooc: Wasn't Ash freed from the rope the previous round, with Mortimer's help, like what the DM post said?) DM Steve responds: Ash cast the spell anyway, so I want to be sure it's understood he's free.

Mortimer offers Heorstan the rope, that he had removed from Ash, so that he could use it to put a leash on those little monsters. He doesn't know why, but he's never liked reptiles of any kind. "Cold-blooded freaks! They give me creeps and taste horrible!" he mutters to himself. (That's why they startled him so.)

"What room did this dodger exit from? We should probably check to see if anything was stolen."

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 9 AC:14
Sunday October 3rd, 2021 10:25:58 AM
"It was from the way I entered; so that would be Minerva's room." Torryn clarified. She didn't think that the culprit had stolen anything though. Her impression was that he/she was making their exit, surreptitiously having created the mischief within that they'd intended. Still, there was little point in embarrassing herself by voicing said opinion and then having Morty find something was indeed stolen. She still wanted to go roving, just in case something else happened or that what had just transpired was a diversion, but Evred had yet to speak on the matter.

Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 10/10
Sunday October 3rd, 2021 4:14:57 PM
Ooc: My fault. I skipped posts from people not in thr room(not noticing Mortimer made it).

The now enlarged Ash pats Mortimer on the back. " Thank you Mortimer. "

He listens as another possible culprit is discussed.

Manolo (Michael A) - HP 10/10 AC 17
Sunday October 3rd, 2021 8:39:54 PM
Manolo heads back to the group
"What is going on ?!", He asks when he get to them.

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 9 AC:14
Monday October 4th, 2021 10:39:22 AM
"Um....stuff." Answered Torryn, most helpfully. She'd only just arrived herself and wasn't exascyly sure what had transpired.

AC 13 HP 6/8 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K
Monday October 4th, 2021 3:34:58 PM
Loryn gestures Torry to the now stunned lizard, "Would you be so kind as to help poor Heorstan get these guys back home?"

""Minerva, looks like a well thought out break in and so I think we need to look about with you to see what was taken." The gnome rubs his nose and ponders a couple thoughts, but keeps them to himself for the moment. He wanted to be much more alone before saying anything, but he is not overly happy with anything going on

For now, Loryn points Minerva in the general direction of the downstairs, "Lead on to where if someone was looking to swipe something, where would they go?"

Spells
4-1st- xx-Color Spray, Magic Weapon
x 0 - Detect Magic, Read Magic, Mage Hand, x-Message

Gnome: 1/day Dancing Lights, Prestidigitation, Ghost Sound, Speak with Animals

Sorcerer Ray 7/ day 30' 1d6 x.

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 9 AC:14
Monday October 4th, 2021 5:09:03 PM
At first Torryn felt a twinge of resentment at being so summarily dispatched. Loryn was going to stay and do some 'detecting' and investigating and she got to babysit a lizard. But it was a momentary thing. She quickly concluded that helping Hoerstan was precisely the pretext she needed for a good look around outside. Perhaps she'd have to wait until her journey back from his place, but she could do her own 'detecting' and perhaps find the shadowy figure.

"Sure, Hoerstan." She smiled happily. "I'll help you." then to the lizard. "There's no need to be frightened, little lizard. I bet Uncle Hoerstan has a nice dead mouse waiting for you. You'd like that, wouldn't you?"

Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.) - HP: 8/8. AC:13
Monday October 4th, 2021 10:34:28 PM
Mortimer suddenly finds himself shrouded in shadow. He turns around to find a giant-sized Ash staring down at him. There is a pause. This isn't the craziest thing he's witnessed lately. "Now aren't you a smarty pants, showin' off like that!"

This reminds Mortimer that he left his trousers back at the tool shed. "And here I am in my knickers," he makes a quick check, looking down the collar of his over-sized shirt, "Uhhh, no I'm not!" Thankfully, his shirt is covering everything, but he couldn't guarantee that while he was running here.

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 9 AC:14
Tuesday October 5th, 2021 11:47:03 AM
Mortimer's comment reminded Torryn that she too had dressed just as minimally. No one had commented, so it clearly wasn't an issue. On that basis she decided that it would be best not to comment on Morty's state of undress.

Mole; (RichP) AC 18; HP 11; CMD 13
Tuesday October 5th, 2021 2:03:13 PM
Mole drops off what little armor he had started to put on. The sounds from below sound as if things are calming down.

DM Steve -- What did I miss?
Tuesday October 5th, 2021 7:30:07 PM
Ash thanks Mortimer for the help getting free.
Torrynashkabbeth mentions seeing someone leaving the house, and suggests patrolling. When asked to help Heorstan, she sees it as a chance to look around outside.
Loryn asks Torryn to help Heorstan get back home. He agrees they should determine if anything was stolen.
Mortimer is a bit spooked by the lizards, but offers Heorstan the rope to use as a leash. He wants to check if anything was stolen.
Manolo heads downstairs and asks to get caught up.
Mole abandons getting ready after hearing calmer voices downstairs.
Evred is quiet.

Minerva and Ballo are a bit embarrassed, but with all the going on about a figure leaving the upstairs have no choice but to rely on the party’s discretion. Torryn saw Ballo leaving out the upstairs back, so that he could come in to help Minerva through a more seemly entrance to the house. Ballo says there is no way anything left out the back way he came in. But the main door to the house was open when he came in the back.

As the group pieces together what happened, it seems likely that someone entered the house, set the traps, and lured the lizards over here. Heorstan says he figured out where to go by the occasional whiff of ozone -- which would have attracted the lizards -- at least until the screams gave him a clear destination.

While Torryn helps Heorstan get the lizards back to his shed, she looks for clues. Torryn notes that Rena’s treatment of Heorstan improves once he promises to get rid of the lizards. BY the time they’re home, she’s practically comforting him. (DC 17 perception) Highlight to display spoiler: {She also finds some tiny barefoot tracks in the lane outside the boarding house, but is unskilled at following them or understanding which direction they go.}

Meanwhile, the rest of the group, with Minerva, find that nothing seems to have been taken.

Manolo (Michael A) - HP 10/10 AC 17
Tuesday October 5th, 2021 7:53:51 PM
"What is going on In Gragul Name ?!", Manolo asks, feeling a little bit confused about the whole situation.

Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 10/10
Tuesday October 5th, 2021 9:41:49 PM
"I'd like to share some info with you Manolo, but i spent the whole fight wrestling with a rope that I couldn't cut, " Ash says with a chuckle,

Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.) - HP: 8/8. AC:13
Wednesday October 6th, 2021 12:17:13 AM
Mortimer considers everything he knows about this thief. He's not sure what to think. This was not his style. He only ran small hustles and always tried to appear unassuming as possible. Especially not to alert everyone in town to your presence. He doesn't understand this rogue's motivation. Could this all just be for the thrill, he questions himself?

Mortimer is tired and he shakes his head in frustration. "Alright, ... if two stormy lizards and a rope trap is all we got, then problem solved. Won't do us any good to lose sleep and be all knackered in the morning."

Mortimer considers asking Minerva for a room in her boarding house. He's been thinking about moving out of the tool shed. However he decides to save that question for another time after she's had a chance to calm down.

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 9 AC:14 d20=10 ;
Wednesday October 6th, 2021 7:32:11 AM
Torryn noticed nothing particularly unusual

(Perception total 12)

She bade Rena and Hoerstan a good night and made her way leisurely back to the boarding house. Having not seen Evred she decided to go back by way of the guard house. Torryn fully expected that he'd be gone; no doubt having heard the hue and cry and galloped to the scene, but she'd not yet seen him, so felt it best just to make sure that he knew what was happening, or rather, what had happened. Nothing much seemed to be happening now.

As she made her way back, her mind drifted.

Agratha, her tutor as selected by her father, had hinted that were she to harness the power of her spirit she could, with practice, move as swiftly as the wind. That would have been useful tonight. It was also very unlikely that she'd ever manage to harness any of her mercurial spirit. She was, by and large, easily distracted and impulsive. Neither were particularly useful when attempting to master skills that required discipline and focus.

Torryn huffed out a sigh. With that breath went all contemplation of discipline. She looked up at the stars and admired their beauty. Next, casting her gaze around her she tried to ascertain where various night sounds emanated. That kept her fully occupied for the rest of her short journey.

AC 13 HP 6/8 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K
Wednesday October 6th, 2021 9:56:40 AM
Loryn wrinkles his nose and gives his belly a scratch
"I'm at a complete loss here. Whoever, lets call her Pip, sneaks into the house and lays out several snares after luring a couple of Heorstan's lightning lizards here just for the fun of it. Pip then slips off into the night without a trace, or at least one we can find or follow. My suggestion, which I am going to follow is to go back to sleep, tomorrow is going to be generally awful and we'll hear about whoever got something swiped and hopefully won't hear about anyone being killed with a short sword."

Loryn gives a pop with his mouth and with a nod to the others heads upstairs and to his room

Spells
4-1st- xx-Color Spray, Magic Weapon
x 0 - Detect Magic, Read Magic, Mage Hand, x-Message

Gnome: 1/day Dancing Lights, Prestidigitation, Ghost Sound, Speak with Animals

Sorcerer Ray 7/ day 30' 1d6 x.

Mole; (RichP) AC 18; HP 11; CMD 13
Wednesday October 6th, 2021 10:05:45 PM
Mole listens to the conversation downstairs. He agrees with Loryn and closes his door. He goes back to sleep.

Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.) - HP: 8/8. AC:13
Wednesday October 6th, 2021 10:10:18 PM
After Loryn disappears behind his door, Mortimer attempts to mimic the gnomes ‘pop’ a few times. After his best attempt, he goes, “hmm!,” then takes his leave. He strolls back to the tool shed.

DM Steve -- if two stormy lizards and a rope trap is all we got, then problem solved.
Wednesday October 6th, 2021 10:17:31 PM
Mole turns in after hearing that things are wrapped up downstairs.
Ash tells Manolo he was wrestling a rope.
Mortimer thinks about what they know of the intruder. He does not understand the motive here. He decides to ask about getting a room, but at a more opportune time.
Manolo is confused.
Torrynashkabbeth worries about Evred. He’s not at the guard house when she checks.
Loryn suggests everyone sleep, and predicts tomorrow they’ll hear more about the sword.
Evred is missing.

Sleep doesn’t exactly come quickly or easily, but it comes. The next morning, Loryn’s predictions of learning that someone was stabbed with Grog’s sword fortunately do not come true.

Other than the attack at Minerva’s, and some supplies stolen from Keith -- including rope -- there are no new tales. But there are rumors flying around. The bad times have come again, and Agatha’s name comes up more than most when folks are talking about it. Ballo has told people that Agatha knew about Heorstan’s lizards, and that she said she’d alerted the guard but they didn’t come.

Sometime early in the afternoon, word comes that Heorstan left town in a wagon with two crates. He was headed southwest, where there are a couple of villages on the way to

Minerva is very happy to have been saved from the lizards, and thanks the group with a few gifts. First, no need to pay rent this month. Mortimer and Torryn are welcome to move in if they want. Also, there are eight potions she “inherited” from a previous boarder, and a mother of pearl comb from the same source.

With some time and investigation, the spell casters in the group determine the potions are all cure light wounds. Mortimer thinks the comb might fetch 200 gp. Everyone earns 700 XP.

(OOC: It has been a week since Tanner posted. Does anyone have an idea if he’s ok?)

Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.) - HP: 8/8. AC:13
Wednesday October 6th, 2021 10:21:17 PM
After Loryn disappears behind his door, Mortimer attempts to mimic the gnomes ‘pop’ a few times. After his best attempt, he goes, “hmm!,” then takes his leave. He strolls back to the tool shed.

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 9 AC:14
Thursday October 7th, 2021 5:30:15 AM
Torryn thanked Minerva for her generosity and decided that she would indeed move into the boarding house, particularly as it would currently be free.

She hadn't been able to find Evred. A protracted search didn't appeal. Sleep did. So she'd looked no further than the guard house. Once she' brought a select few items of clothing, she resolved to make more thorough enquiries as to his whereabouts.

AC 13 HP 8/8 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K
Thursday October 7th, 2021 1:53:51 PM
Loryn wakes, dresses and heads downstairs for breakfast and some of that rather pleasant tasting coffee. It played oddly in his mouth he always thought and it was amazing how versatile it was. Rum, sugar, milk, lemon, really an amazing drink.

"Well at least no one got stabbed eh? and how do you lose a centaur? Big guy must be off doing important daring do's."

After eating and out and about, Loryn picks up on the talk and decides to head over to Agatha's. Not that he believed she could have accomplished even half of what was going on, but it was somewhere to eliminate. Rumors could get dangerous real quick. Last big rumor mill he had heard of ended with lots of torches and pitchforks. No is so dumb as everyone together.

"Excuse me, Agatha? Mind if we talk?"

Spells
4-1st- -Color Spray, Magic Weapon
0 - Detect Magic, Read Magic, Mage Hand, -Message

Gnome: 1/day Dancing Lights, Prestidigitation, Ghost Sound, Speak with Animals

Sorcerer Ray 7/ day 30' 1d6

Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.) - HP: 8/8. AC:13
Thursday October 7th, 2021 8:30:29 PM
After breakfast, Mortimer takes Minerva up on her offer. He takes another trip to the bath house ... twice in four days, imagine that! Wearing his new clothes, he goes by the Chapel of Wardd to inform Priestesss Noma Sparklescheme that he is moving out of the tool shed. He thanks her for allowing him to stay there. With a wiley smile, he replies, "Believe my luck has turned for the better, I do; Wardd has smiled on me. Here... accept these tokens of my luck." He hands her a bottle of Green Grape Wine (worth 10 gp). He then hands her a small pouch of five ancient gold coins (5 gp). "They're small tokens, yes, but I bet there is much more to come."

Moving out of the tool shed was really quite easy. Everything he owned could easily fit in his new, leather backpack. When Minerva leads him to his room, Mortimer eyes go wide with awe! He's never lived in such fancy digs. For the first time in his life, felt like a king. "Is that MY chamber pot ...WOW!? I don't have to share it with anyone, do I?"

Manolo (Michael A) - HP 10/10 AC 17 d20+6=20 ;
Thursday October 7th, 2021 8:55:34 PM
Manolo over sleeps, doing nothing in particular.
He goes around and tries to get a better understanding of the general mood.
Perhaps there was something in the local area they didn't notice, something helpful about this weird happenings.

Local knowledge 20

DM Steve -- I don't have to share it with anyone, do I?
Thursday October 7th, 2021 10:38:47 PM
Torrynashkabbeth thanks Minerva and decides to move in. She plans to look more for Evred.
Manolo tries to gauge the general mood of the town.
Mortimer accepts the offer of lodging. He makes a few donations to Warrd before moving in.
Loryn enjoys his breakfast and is glad to hear of no stabbings. After breakfast, he decides to visit Agatha.
Ash and Mole are quiet.

Wandering the town finds no major news, but as the day progresses there are more and more stories of things discovered missing, food being fouled, equipment being broken, and other miscellaneous unfortunate occurrences. Local lore maintains that Windhorn goes through periodic times of crisis. One disturbing development is the emergence of rumors that the town is again being cursed. From what you know of the historic crises, current goings-on seem quite tame. But that’s not stopping the rumors -- that’s just how these things start. Occasionally the name Agatha is uttered in hushed tones as being the one responsible for the town’s misfortune. Not necessarily that anyone believes that she is doing these things herself.

-----

Agatha lives in a small cottage on the south edge of town. As Loryn strolls up he sees her cats, three of them, including one large long-haired forest cat near his size. Agatha is pale skinned and shows no signs of tanning or even freckles.

"Excuse me, Agatha? Mind if we talk?" Agatha accepts Loryn’s invitation in a friendly-enough manner, shooing away Zerksies (the large cat) so Loryn can sit if he wants, and asking what’s on his mind. She remembers seeing him at Minerva’s, and thinks he handled the situation quite well. What does he want to talk about?

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 9 AC:14
Friday October 8th, 2021 10:22:40 AM
Torryn felt good, despite being unable to locate Evred. She packed a few items of clothing; clothing she deemed appropriate for investigating and adventuring. It wasn't necessarily what anyone else might have deemed appropriate. This was not least evidenced by her current attire.

Torryn smiled contentedly as she strolled back to the boarding house wearing her favourite over-the-knee boots, a short, flared skirt and a sleeveless, truncated top that wonderfully displayed her impressive abs - dancer's abs! The short skirt and sleeveless top would in no way inhibit her movement. That they also brought attention to her shapely, long legs was a happy bonus.

Once she'd deposited her additional clothing, she would make a move concerted and possibly structured effort to find Evred. She wasn't going to over-commit on the 'structured' thing, she was easily distracted.

Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 10/10
Friday October 8th, 2021 2:34:42 PM
Ash was happy more of his friends were staying at the boarding house.

Ash volunteers to help Torryn find Evred

Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.) - HP: 8/8. AC:13
Friday October 8th, 2021 5:16:13 PM
Before the group splits up for the day, Mortimer asks,"You don't think Evred is missing, do you? That HE was the true target from last night?!"

AC 13 HP 8/8 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K
Friday October 8th, 2021 5:23:01 PM
"Thank you." he begins as he takes a seat where the large cat just lfet. "I'm sure you have heard various talk and gossip about town and with all the new happenings. And well I was wondering your take on a couple things. The occurrences themselves and why you keep getting brought up." Loryn chuckles, "it's not like you put a curse on the town right?" The gnome cocks his head a bit and arches an eyebrow, "Right?" he holds it for but a second before smiling warmly at the small joke.

"Some friends of mine are looking into a couple things and well more and more stuff, small really, but a bit annoying keep coming up. We think there could be a fey involved actually"

Spells
4-1st- Color Spray, Magic Weapon
0 - Detect Magic, Read Magic, Mage Hand, -Message

Gnome: 1/day Dancing Lights, Prestidigitation, Ghost Sound, Speak with Animals
Sorcerer Ray 7/ day 30' 1d6

Manolo (Michael A) - HP 10/10 AC 17
Friday October 8th, 2021 8:34:47 PM
Manolo goes back to the boarding house.
He sees Torrynashkabbeth and decides to help as well in the search for Evred.

DM Steve -- it's not like you put a curse on the town right?
Saturday October 9th, 2021 12:07:02 AM
Manolo decides to help Torryn.
Loryn talks with Agatha.
Mortimer asks if Evred could have been the true target.
Torrynashkabbeth moves her things into the boarding house. Later she will look for Evred.
Ash volunteers to help Torryn.
Mole is quiet.

Looking for Evred brings the group to the other guards, who don’t know where he is. But Ballo has talked to them, upset that the guard didn’t come to help. Particularly upset, because Agatha told him she had alerted the guard. Since none of the other guards was alerted, Phaedra is ready to go talk to Agatha.

-----

"Thank you. I'm sure you have heard various talk and gossip about town and with all the new happenings. And well I was wondering your take on a couple things. The occurrences themselves and why you keep getting brought up. it's not like you put a curse on the town right? Right? Some friends of mine are looking into a couple things and well more and more stuff, small really, but a bit annoying keep coming up. We think there could be a fey involved actually."

Agatha stiffens at Loryn’s joke, but softens again as he finishes. ”A fey, you say? Not just any fey, I think. A gremlin. Gremlins are cruel and sadistic pranksters. Their jokes, however, are often dangerous. They like to break things. They like it better to break things in a way that isn’t obvious until those things are used. The attack at Minerva’s -- that sounds like a nuglub. They aren’t particularly subtle, and they like traps.”

”Why do I keep getting brought up? I can’t say. Best to look at who brings me up to answer that one.” She sounds a bit weary.

Mole; (RichP) AC 18; HP 11; CMD 13 d20+8=21 ;
Saturday October 9th, 2021 12:20:08 AM
After communing with the earth outside of the village, spends his day wandering the village. He samples the food from the various shops looking for mostly smoked meats and breads, a reminder of his home.

While wandering, he kept an ear and eye out for the odd rumor or bit of gossip overheard.

His friends were doing some investigating, but that was not really his forte. His caution around surface dwellers wasn't something that was overcome in the few years he'd spent on the surface. Because of it, he seemed to be often misinterpreted. So, as a result, he often didn't say much and kept his distance, only interacting when it was necessary.

Perception DC 21

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 9 AC:14
Saturday October 9th, 2021 11:26:05 AM
Manolo and Ash were welcome company. Torryn really didn't have much of an idea where to look having exhausted the guard house.

"Oh, maybe we should try the stables. You know, because Evred's a bit...um...horsey." She offered with a happy smile. It was, she thought, as good a place to start as any. Plus, she had her spear for 'poking'. It saved getting her hands dirty.

Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 10/10
Saturday October 9th, 2021 8:54:34 PM
Ash stops in his tracks and begins laughing when Torryn calls Evred Horsey. After catching his calm, he agrees and heads to the stables with the others.

Mole; (RichP) AC 18; HP 11; CMD 13
Sunday October 10th, 2021 5:05:17 PM
Mole decided that he needed to head out to the homestead. He would find out how the farmers were fairing. He packs his gear and heads out that afternoon.

Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.) - HP: 8/8. AC:13 d20+1=9 ;
Monday October 11th, 2021 1:22:21 AM
Mortimer decides to take a casual stroll through the Hamlet, being sure to visit all the various shops. He thought the first steps of becoming a respectable member of society was to look the part. While his new clothes were much nicer and well-fitted (travelers outfit) than anything he's had before, he wanted something slightly more elevated in style.

He was surprised by how very few locals recognized him. He had been living in the Hamlet for over two years now and they were treating him like a newcomer. 'No one bothers to pay attention to those who are dirty and of low-breeding,' he thinks at first. After the eighth occurrence, he becomes somewhat miffed by the indignity. With gritted teeth, he mutters, "What little they know, these simpletons. If only they knew that a Margrave walks amongst them?" The tone of that thought completely surprises him. 'Gods blind me,' he thinks, 'I'm out of the tool shed for just a day and I'm already becoming too uppity!'

His shopping spree was just for himself, he did keep his ears open for more rumors about Agatha and their missing friend Evred (Perception: 9). He wonders if Torryn, Ash and Manolo found out anything at the stables. He heads back to the boarding house with another set of nicer clothing (explorer's outfit) and a few other creature comforts. (- 11 gold)

"Maybe we should try the stables" (DM John)
Monday October 11th, 2021 1:52:52 PM

Mole takes a stroll around town, then checks on the farmers.
Torrynashkabbeth continues to lead the search for Evred.
Ash reacts to Torryn’s suggestion.
Mortimer conducts his own search for rumors of Agatha or news of Evred.
Loryn is with Agatha.
Manolo

Mole and Mortimer confirm that the town is abuzz with concern and that Agatha continues to be the hushed focus of many of the rumors. Each of them manage to overhear the talk of friction between Ezra and Agatha heard during the games

Some speculation occurs about Evred that perhaps he was sent on some errand for the Windguard, but no one asked or eavesdropped on actually knows.

At Agatha’s, she smiles gently and asks the gnome, ”Would you care for some tea?

Once everyone has resolved their immediate pursuits, a few days will pass with rumors continuing, and more tales of unfortunate miscellany occurring, but no major events. The absence of further animal attacks oddly seems to increase the growing sense of dread among the residents of Windhorn Hamlet. The question on everyone’s mind seems to be “What next?”

Make sure this DM understands. Is everyone now staying at Minerva’s

AC 13 HP 8/8 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K
Monday October 11th, 2021 2:04:48 PM
Loryn smiles again, appreciating that Agatha knows a good jest when she hears one. So many folk simply cannot or perhaps will not do so. "Gremlins and Nuglubs. Sounds like a downright invasion and why thank, I would love some tea." Loeyn mulls over the phrase, 'break things that are not so obvious'

"Indeed, like the trust of a town for each other being broken right now." As Agatha serves tea, Loryn asks a bolder question.

"If i may pry, can you expound upon the friction between yourself and Ezra? Perhaps there is something that a delightful magical gnome and his friends can do to help/"

Visiting complete, Loryn returns to the others and spends the next few days at Minerva's tinkering with food

Spells
4-1st- Color Spray, Magic Weapon
0 - Detect Magic, Read Magic, Mage Hand, -Message

Gnome: 1/day Dancing Lights, Prestidigitation, Ghost Sound, Speak with Animals
Sorcerer Ray 7/ day 30' 1d6

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 9 AC:14
Monday October 11th, 2021 5:21:05 PM
A few days and nothing! She'd even worn her short skirt. that could usually be relied upon to get people talking. Whilst that might not always be in the most positive light, at least they talked. yet so far, she'd discovered nothing. This 'investigating' thing was clearly a lot trickier than it seemed.

On a more positive note, she'd settled in at the boarding house with no problems. She was used to helping out at home so helping Minerva with cleaning was no issue. She just avoided laundry. That was something she really didn't enjoy. Fortunately some deft minor magic could make such chores swift and painless. Provided Minerva was comfortable with magic doing the work, Torryn was equally happy to make liberal use of her 'mending' ability to speed through the housework. there were, after all, more important tasks to focus on - like making sure her hair was in its typically excellent condition. That wasn't by happenstance.

Whilst it was troubling that no sign of a massive centaur could be found, it worried Torryn less than the antics or lack therof of the mischievous Fey. Evred could well have been tasked with some confidential mission. What the fickle fey was doing was anyone's guess.

Manolo (Michael A) - HP 10/10 AC 17
Monday October 11th, 2021 6:05:01 PM
Manolo was worried a bit about Evred disappearance but for the time being, there was nothing he could do.
"Torrynashkabbeth, do you think we will find him?" , Manolo asks.

Mole; (RichP) AC 18; HP 11; CMD 13 d20+8=27 ;
Monday October 11th, 2021 9:33:48 PM
Mole finds himself eventually back at the tavern for some smoked meat and ale. He thinks about the things of the days. The farmers were safe and no more animals had been killed. He wondered how many other farms had animals killed by the creature. He'd make a point to do something about that.

He heard some surface folk arguing 'bout something. He didn't care so much about that.

Evred had disappeared, not strange. An impetuous young lad looking to prove himself takes off in search of the evil doer; and a young member of the guard. It practically wrote itself.

So for now, Mole will do as dwarves do and be patient. He will drink, eat, sleep, and wait.

He notices Loryn messing in the kitchen. Occasionally he'll ventures near the door to get a hint of what the gnome was working on, then wander back to his chair.

Perception DC 27

Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.) - HP: 8/8. AC:13
Monday October 11th, 2021 11:09:57 PM
Answering Mole, Mortimer says, "Yeah ... I heard the same natter around the hamlet," He puts his clay pipe back on his lips, "quite tiresome really."

He sits there in the common room by the fire flipping through the pages of a book. Mortimer looks rather smart in his new manor shirt and vest; he's particularly fond of the vest. He seems engrossed by the literature. Hid eyes move about the pages then suddenly go wide with shock. "You mean to tell me ... you put a duck into a chicken, then put the chicken into a goose! We haveta try that sometime ...sounds brilliant!" He sets Minerva's Cookbook down and walks over to the bar to pour a glass of wine. He gives Mole a toast-like gesture and takes a sip.

A very subtle and odd thing happens, noticed only by those with the wisdom to see it. The look in Mortimer's eyes change from the glossy and crystal glare of youth to a knowing gaze, tired from experience. Like that of an elder, well past his prime, ancient and clouded. He takes another satisfying drink, enjoying every little drop circling down his parched throat. The result is a very gratifying ,"Ahhhh."

He turns his youthful eyes back to Mole and asks a question, "Mole, I have some questions I wish to ask. I'm at a loss about all the strange things that are happening to me. You seem to have the longest beard in this party. Interested to hear your thoughts, I would."

Scene 4: Hot Time in the Old Town Tonight

" Sounds like a downright invasion.." (DM John)
Tuesday October 12th, 2021 11:11:08 AM
Loryn continues his conversation with Agatha before returning back to Minerva’s.
Torrynashkabbeth settles in at Minerva’s.
Manolo worries about Evred.
Mole keeps an eye on things.
Ash
Mortimer settles in to his new life and approaches Mole for insight.

With Agatha
Agatha is a gracious hostess, and makes a fine cup of tea. At Loryns question about Ezra, a series of expressions quickly cross her face: surprise, what could be anger, then, resignation. With a sigh she explains, “I’ve been a little bothered that some of the youngsters have easier access to his product than is good for them. I have perhaps been a bit less than gentle in telling him of my concerns.” The conversation continues politely and, though surprised at first, she seems to not be upset by the direct question.

Later that night

DING! DING! DING! DING!

It’s the town alarm bell!

What is happening?

Anyone who looks outside, sees people starting to arouse from their homes and rush outside. Judging by the night sky, it must be slightly after midnight.

Before long shouts of FIRE! and EZRA’s! ring out, punctuated by the town bell.

Town Map
https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1K2lRCIsDxW0y0VuK25ZBYx7uTuR5Dlsz

Note that Minerva’s is due south of “6” Bearclaw Keep.
Ezra’s is situated between “2” Belt and Belch and “6”.
The distance between Ezra’s and Minerva’s is about 200 feet.

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 9 AC:14 d20=13 ;
Tuesday October 12th, 2021 12:41:55 PM
Torryn was far from certain that they'd find Evred, but he was big and strong and in all likelihood had been dispatched on some important Guard mission. She had nothing else to go on, so was content to assume that was the case and told Manolo that.

When the alarm rang, Torryn sprang out of bed.

"This again!" She thought. It would be another case of boots and tunic. And very importantly - Spear! Consequently 'dressing', such as it was for her, took little time. She added to the general consternation as she exited her room.

"Something's happened at Ezra's!" She called out as she rapidly made her way out. What she'd find, she did not know, but couldn't help but think whatever it was, it would make another splendid diversion. Last time she'd espied the likely culprit, but they'd proven more than adept at slipping through the shadows. She resolved to again keep her wits about her as she made her way to Ezra's.

(Perception: 15 total)

AC 13 HP 8/8 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K
Tuesday October 12th, 2021 6:47:35 PM
Overhearing Mortimer at the cookbook, the gnome grins a bit, "Wait til he see me put a pie in a cake." he says aloud to his sweetners pouch.

The cries of fire have Loryn up with a start and he immediately thinks of the gremlin. setting something ablaze would be right up its alley. This time the gnome does take the time to pull on some boots and grab his cloak as he heads out his door. Loryn knows he will be among the last to arrive and even after he does, he won't be overly useful in putting out a fire. Heavy buckets of water in a brigade line of humans was not his strong suit.

Heading out of Minerva's, Loryn starts towards the parade grounds (7)

Spells
4-1st- Color Spray, Magic Weapon
0 - Detect Magic, Read Magic, Mage Hand, -Message

Gnome: 1/day Dancing Lights, Prestidigitation, Ghost Sound, Speak with Animals
Sorcerer Ray 7/ day 30' 1d6

Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 10/10
Tuesday October 12th, 2021 11:02:52 PM
Ash pops out of bed at the alarm sound. Hopefully no ropes to shut him down this time. He keeps his night clothes on and heads down the main room waitiing for the others.

Mole; (RichP) AC 18; HP 11; CMD 13
Wednesday October 13th, 2021 12:27:57 AM
Mole returns the toast and looks to the lad. "I have been around for a half a dozed or more decades." He says to the lad. "Honestly, lad I couldn't know these changes you talk about. Until a few years ago, I lived in a dwarven village deep in the mountains. I know very little about the surface world and even less about humans." He pauses to take a drink of his ale. He looks at his mug for a moment and then continues looking at the boy. "If I were to wager a guess, I'd say it's the magic you have. It's natural to you?" He says as both a question and a statement. "Look to your heritage. For dwarves, our heritage makes up much of who we are. You see this most notably in the formal greetings used by my brethren." He stands and raises his mug. " I am Grund Fyrbend, son of Gurd, son of Bladren, son of Hagred...and so on." he sits. "These titles tie use to our heritage for good or for ill."

**************

Sound asleep, Mole is jolted awake by the sounds of alarms and shouting coming from outside. He puts on his breeches and boots before heading out to see what the ruckus is about.

Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.) - HP: 8/8. AC:13
Wednesday October 13th, 2021 11:49:02 AM
(ooc: Sorry for the quickie. Too dead tired last night ... too busy at work today.)

"Augh ... not again!" Mortimer climbs out of bed and begins throwing on this trousers and boots. Grabs his sickle before running out the door toward the ringing bell.

"Augh ... not again!" (DM John)
Wednesday October 13th, 2021 12:23:59 PM

Torrynashkabbeth rushes out, looking for other signs of any culprits. She sees none.
Loryn heads toward the parade grounds Note that this is away from Ezra’s
Ash rushes down awaiting the others.
Mole and Mortimer dress and head out.

The ringing of the bell happens only in dire need. The citizens of Windhorn Hamlet understand that and waste no time in responding to its call. Cries of ‘fire’ motivate them even further and already a bucket brigade is beginning to form.

As the young adventurers approach Ezra’s, they see smoke billowing from the rear of the building illuminated by the fire within the building. Captain Swiftshine is already on the scene, her hair uncharacteristically down, is blowing about her face as she directs the arriving villagers in organizing a bucket line, her husband Theobald obviously in charge of distributing buckets for the task.

Barrels filled with rainwater are at each corner of the distillery. Two people appear to be struggling with the nearest one. Meanwhile standing on the loading platform, the party recognizes Feld the watchman, apparently struggling to unlock one of the doors and visibly agitated and frustrated.

========
Link to the map.

https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1mS8UkPPjk9OF7SkwnqkfvUE1l7xLVN1vyZxBVvSryvU/edit?usp=sharing

AC 13 HP 8/8 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K
Wednesday October 13th, 2021 3:54:12 PM
http://www.woldiangames.com/Woldipedia/index.php/Geography:_Windhorn_Map
Loryn is heading towards (7) which should be due west from Minerva's, which is south of Bearclaw (6). Ezra's between (2) and (6) should stay about 200' away right? I'm heading towards and pas Grog's (1) and just north of that, should be Ezra's

Loryn spares a look to the orange glow brightening the night sky and tires to pick up his pace towards Grogs and then beyond. This could be another diversion, this could be the first of multiple fires and perhaps the culprit will use the parade fields to escape back to the woods.

"or of course, you could looking like an idiot who doesn't want to help." A shake of his head and the gnome rushes on

Spells
4-1st- Color Spray, Magic Weapon
0 - Detect Magic, Read Magic, Mage Hand, -Message

Gnome: 1/day Dancing Lights, Prestidigitation, Ghost Sound, Speak with Animals
Sorcerer Ray 7/ day 30' 1d6

Manolo (Michael A) - HP 10/10 AC 17 d20=7 ;
Wednesday October 13th, 2021 8:16:35 PM
Manolo rushes to help with the fire.
'trickery, again!', he thinks as he helps with the fire.
Aid another 7
P.s no computer for a day or 2.

Mole; (RichP) AC 18; HP 11; CMD 13 d20+8=22 ;
Wednesday October 13th, 2021 10:27:44 PM
After coming out of the tavern, Mole makes his way towards the commotion. As he makes his way toward the fire, he watches for things that don't seem right.

Perception DC22

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 9 AC:14
Thursday October 14th, 2021 8:05:46 AM
Arriving, Torryn quickly assessed the scene and elected to aid Feld. It was an easy enough decision as moving heavy barrels was assuredly not her forte.

"What's wrong, Feld?" She asked, indicating the door. "Can I help?" She could use her spear to lever the door if necessary, but doubted it would come to that. Most likely, poor Feld was a bundle of nerves and just needed calming so he could unlock the door. She hoped that was the case anyway.

Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.) - HP: 8/8. AC:13 d20+1=8 ;
Thursday October 14th, 2021 10:50:09 AM
As Mortimer makes his way to the red glow of fire, he makes sure to pay attention to the surroundings in an effort to notice anything strange. Unfortunately, it is really dark this night.

(Perception: 8)

"Can I help?" (DM John)
Thursday October 14th, 2021 11:25:24 AM

Loryn head checks the area around Ezra’s, suspicious that the fire is another diversion.
Manolo pitches in with the fire.
Mole watches warily.
Torryn runs up to Feld.
Mortimer looks around for other mischief.
Ash

“What’s wrong, Feld? Can I help?” asks Torrynashkabbeth as she approaches Ezra’s frustrated night watchman.

“I can’t get my key to work!” is his angry reply as he furiously jabs his key yet again into the door’s padlock to no avail. “I’ve got to get the barrels out of the fire or the whole building will erupt!” He pauses a moment and frantically looks around before adding, “I haven’t seen Ezra.” His eyes wide with impending panic, he continues almost in a whisper, “He might still be inside.”

Meanwhile, two townsfolk have been trying to access the rain barrel on the southeast corner (Q12). They exclaim, not politely, when the barrel suddenly collapses, spilling its fire quenching contents onto the thirsty ground.

Link to Map
https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1mS8UkPPjk9OF7SkwnqkfvUE1l7xLVN1vyZxBVvSryvU/edit#gid=0

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 9 AC:14
Thursday October 14th, 2021 11:56:40 AM
"Hold on, Feldy." Torryn said calmly. Panicking wouldn't help. "Let me try." She wasn't as filled with frayed nerves as Feld. She was simply going to calmly try each key in turn. If none worked, then they have to break open the door.

"Do you have a shovel or a spade?" She then enquired. The seemingly random question served two purposes. One it distracted the night-watchman from his fears and concerns. Also, should he have one, it would make opening the door so much easier. By easing the head in on the hinge side, they could break the door and thus gain access that way.

She held out her palm expectantly for the keys.

AC 13 HP 8/8 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K
Thursday October 14th, 2021 4:00:23 PM
Loryn continues hustling towards the fair grounds, his head on a swivel for anyone looking out of place

Spells
4-1st- Color Spray, Magic Weapon
0 - Detect Magic, Read Magic, Mage Hand, -Message

Gnome: 1/day Dancing Lights, Prestidigitation, Ghost Sound, Speak with Animals
Sorcerer Ray 7/ day 30' 1d6

Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.) - HP: 8/8. AC:13 d20+7=21 ; d20+1=4 ;
Thursday October 14th, 2021 7:48:00 PM
As he continues to make haste to the fire, Mortimer wonders what he would do if he spotted the gremlin. He isn't sure. Though he considers making himself look as menacing as possible. Like that of a mountain cat on the hunt ... his stride, light and swift, matched with a glare of intensity. He almost wants to taunt the little bugger out of his hiding place, but he stays quiet.

(Intimidate: 21. Perception: 4.) (x2 hustle speed)

'Darn this darkness,' he thinks. 'why won't my powers allow me to see in the dark?' If he doesn't notice anything, Mortimer decides he would sprint the rest of the way.

(ooc: I'm guessing Morty has 80' remaining of the 200' distance?)

Manolo (Michael A) - HP 10/10 AC 17 d20=10 ;
Thursday October 14th, 2021 8:08:38 PM
If Manolo hears about the key problem he will try to unlock the door otherwise , he will help with the fire extinguishing efforts.

Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 10/10
Thursday October 14th, 2021 11:40:25 PM
Ash heads towards thew fire with the others. He was tight lipped, and quiet as the fire made him feel a little threatened... not to mention the possibility of some other trap set up for the group.

Gettng closer, he'll help with the rain water barrels

AC 13 HP 8/8 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K
Friday October 15th, 2021 3:30:36 PM
Loryn continues hustling towards the fair grounds, his head on a swivel for anyone looking out of place

Spells
4-1st- Color Spray, Magic Weapon
0 - Detect Magic, Read Magic, Mage Hand, -Message

Gnome: 1/day Dancing Lights, Prestidigitation, Ghost Sound, Speak with Animals
Sorcerer Ray 7/ day 30' 1d6

Mole; (RichP) AC 18; HP 11; CMD 13
Friday October 15th, 2021 5:19:34 PM
Mole continues towards the fire.

"Let me try." (DM John)
Saturday October 16th, 2021 10:52:22 AM
Torrynashkabbeth tries to open the lock for Feld.
Loryn keeps looking for trouble other than the fire.
Mortimer hurries toward Ezra’s. Assuming Mortimer ran. He can be there now.
Manolo goes to help with the lock. Ash helps with the rain barrels.
Mole continues toward the fire.

Current status of everyone:
Ash is at the barrel on the SW corner of Ezra’s.
Manolo and Torryn are with Feld trying to open the sliding door to the warehouse.
Mortimer and Mole are now at Ezra’s. Please indicate where you are and what you are doing.
Loryn is at the Fairgrounds.

Torryn’s attempt to open the lock, despite calmer nerves, is no more successful than Feld’s. None of the keys seem to fit.

Manolo then arrives to help with the lock. Manolo only, Perception DC 15 Highlight to display spoiler: {The lock appears to have been tampered with so that Feld’s key does not work. It requires a DC 15 disable device to unrig it so that Feld’s key works, or a DC 20 disable device check to pick it without the key.}

When Torryn asks for a shovel, Feld replies, gesturing to the nearby door into the main part of the distillery (at K12 on the map), “There should be one just inside that door, near the mash tank, but it’s locked, too!” He is of little help in that regard, but as she looks around, she sees that several of the gathering townsfolk do in fact have shovels, a common firefighting tool. One hears her request and readily rushes to give his shovel to her. Using the shovel as a lever, it is a DC 13 Strength Check to break it open. With Torryn and Feld working together they will add +4 to the roll. If Manolo attempts to break the door (rather than another possible action available in the spoiler above), he will add an additional +3 to the roll.

When Ash arrives at the barrel, he quickly realizes what the confusion of the two townsfolk there is. Rather than water, the barrel seems to be filled with a clear substance about the consistency of jelly. He is immediately reminded of what happened to Minerva one evening. See DM post on 8/30

The bucket line of townsfolk is starting to take shape, but no water has started to arrive as of yet. Captain Swiftshine’s focus continues to be on getting that working. Meanwhile, a couple of folk run off to the nearby Belt and Belch--surely, they can’t be heading for a late night tipple.

Link to Map
https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1mS8UkPPjk9OF7SkwnqkfvUE1l7xLVN1vyZxBVvSryvU/edit#gid=0

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 9 AC:14 d20=4 ;
Saturday October 16th, 2021 1:05:23 PM
"No time to wait." Toryn told Feld. "If we shove the head of the shovel in here we can take the sliding door off its runners, no problem." She concluded with an eager smile. That confidence slipped as she found the gap twixt door and frame far narrower than she's expected.

(OOC: 4+3 does not make 13, even with Torryn's exceptional charm and upbeat confidence.)

"Don't panic. We can do this." She assured Feld. "We'll just have top be a little less subtle. Okay, maybe a LOT less subtle." She then took hold of the shovel and with a determined pout did her best to ram its head between the door and the building's frame. She was a dancer, not a firefighter. How did she get involved in this? It was a fleeting thought. She was now determined to access the building.

(OOC: She'll make another attempt to open the door next round unless Manolo's actions dictate she act differently.)

Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 10/10
Sunday October 17th, 2021 12:00:41 PM
"Stop" Ash yells to the townsfolk. "Don't touch that. That's not water. That's the stuff that choked Mirneva. Don't even touch the barrel. "

Ash waits for them to move away, and he kicks the barrel over to spill the contents away from the house.

"Hey... " he yells to the group. "Watch for any traps. "

Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.) - HP: 8/8. AC:13 d20+1=19 ;
Sunday October 17th, 2021 8:17:53 PM
Mortimer arrives and immediately hurries over to a water barrel that several towns folk were already gathering around. If the lid is sealed, he will help and try and open the barrel. If there are buckets nearby, he will begin a bucket brigade. If it is something else, he will assess what next to do once he knows what the problem is.

Ash yells something from the other side of the building. It isn't certain if he heard it. (Perception: 19)

Mole; (RichP) AC 18; HP 11; CMD 13
Monday October 18th, 2021 9:23:30 AM
Mole moves up to one of the rain barrels. He can see it's not water. "What in mother earth is this?" He says.

AC 13 HP 8/8 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K
Monday October 18th, 2021 9:40:37 AM
Loryn looks about, now where might be a good place to watch the mayhem unfold? A good prank deserves to be seen after all and setting the town on fire and such had to be up there, so where? Loryn decides to head north

Spells
4-1st- Color Spray, Magic Weapon
0 - Detect Magic, Read Magic, Mage Hand, -Message

Gnome: 1/day Dancing Lights, Prestidigitation, Ghost Sound, Speak with Animals
Sorcerer Ray 7/ day 30' 1d6

Manolo (Michael A) - HP 10/10 AC 17 d20+5=7 ;
Monday October 18th, 2021 6:51:08 PM
Manolo doesn't recognize or see anything else and continues in his attempt to unlock the door unless someone else has a better idea or method.

Perception 7

"Watch for any traps!" (DM John)
Tuesday October 19th, 2021 11:41:09 AM

Torrynashkabbeth attempts to break open the door, but fails to get proper purchase on the shovel she’s using to pry it open.
Ash calls out a warning to those attempting to use the congealed water. And warns about other traps, perhaps having a momentary flashback to being roped up.
Mortimer runs to the collapsed barrel at Q12 See Oct 14 DM post and quickly realizes that the spilled water is irrecoverable.
Loryn continues to look for what the fire might be a diversion for.
Manolo, too distracted by the fire, the shouts, and the smell of smoke, notices nothing unusual at the doorway.
Mole heads to the barrel on the northwest corner and quickly notes that the water inside is similarly congealed like the water that encased Minerva.

Note that there is sufficient lighting from torches and lanterns for everyone without darkvision to be able to see.

Mortimer sees that the rivets of the barrel hoops have all been removed so that when the firefighters attempted to move it, the entire thing collapsed.

The citizens continue to form up for the bucket line.

Those at the far rain barrel at the northeast corner discover that it too had been tampered with. They shout in surprise as they are drenched with water from the collapsing barrel. Mole and Ash only on a successful DC 15 sound based perception check Highlight to display spoiler: {When the barrel collapses you hear what sounds like a high pitched snicker coming from the buildings across the alley from Ezra’s. As you turn to look for the source, you see movement in the shadows as if something small sized just ran away. You realize that there would be little chance of success in pursuit.}

There is a slight glow visible from cracks in windows and doors of Ezra’s but the fire has not progressed to the outside of the building yet. The most visible sign of the fire continues to be the smoke billowing out. The escaping smoke begins to creep out of the cracks around the doors and windows in the front of the building whereas it was previously only on the rear, a clear indication that the fire is continuing to build inside.

Those residents that ran to the nearby tavern return with a heavy oak bench, apparently with the owner’s approval for Gid has joined them as they return with their make shift battering ram.

https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1mS8UkPPjk9OF7SkwnqkfvUE1l7xLVN1vyZxBVvSryvU/edit#gid=0

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 9 AC:14 d20=13 ;
Tuesday October 19th, 2021 12:11:16 PM
Torryn slammed the head of the shovel between door and frame and pushed. With Feld's help - a lot of Feld's help - she managed to pop the sliding door out from its runners.

(OOC: Total 16 for the attempt = success!)

With the door out from it's runners, it was a much easier matter to peel it back and with a good kick, open the doorway wide. Hopefully whatever lay within hadn't been tampered with. Torryn called upon her sparkly, Fey magic; if something needed a small amount of 'mending' to ensure it was safe to move, she could ensure it received such.

Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 10/10 d20+1=9 ;
Tuesday October 19th, 2021 12:14:58 PM
Ash doesn't pick up in the noise and continues knocking over the barrel of viscous liquid.

AC 13 HP 8/8 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K d20+2=3 ;
Tuesday October 19th, 2021 4:27:33 PM
Loryn continues his northward jog and veers slightly to the east so as not to enter the campgrounds but to past into the space between the edge of town and the camp area. 'Can't see anything out here, I dont hear anything out here. Nice thinking Loryn'

Perception 3

Spells
4-1st- Color Spray, Magic Weapon
0 - Detect Magic, Read Magic, Mage Hand, -Message

Gnome: 1/day Dancing Lights, Prestidigitation, Ghost Sound, Speak with Animals
Sorcerer Ray 7/ day 30' 1d6

Manolo (Michael A) - HP 10/10 AC 17 d20=14 ;
Tuesday October 19th, 2021 8:49:15 PM
Manolo tries to focus on what is head as he tries to narrow his attention on what may be inside.

Perception 19 (14+5)

Mole; (RichP) AC 18; HP 11; CMD 13 d20+8=11 ;
Tuesday October 19th, 2021 11:17:13 PM
Mole moves over to some of the townsfolk. "Are there any other rain barrels around town?" He says. "Gather a wagon and horses and men. Go around town gathering any barrels of water and bring them here. If we hurry, the spread can be prevented."

"Does someone have an axe?" He shouts while pointing at the folks unable to get into the storage.

Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.) - HP: 8/8. AC:13 d20+1=4 ;
Wednesday October 20th, 2021 12:39:10 AM
"Not only the water, the barrels themselves have been sabotaged."

This gremlin has thought of everything, he thinks. Maybe not everything. As a thief, Mortimer considers how he would gain entry if he wanted inside. He observes that the front of Ezra's has a loading deck that's several feet high off the ground. There is possibly a crawl space under the building. Maybe there is an opening or trap door for him to exploit. This street rat can always find a way in.

Mortimer moves over to the stairs that lead up to the deck. He squats down to see if there is space under the building (Perception: 4). Darn, the darkness! He waits for his eyes to adjust. Hopefully light from the fire, flooding through the gaps in the floor boards, illuminates the crawl space.

This gremlin has thought of everything. (DM John) d20=18 ; d6=4 ; d6=5 ;
Wednesday October 20th, 2021 6:55:10 PM

Torryn successfully gets the door open to the warehouse. Inside she and Manolo see rows and rows of barrels.

“We need to get these out of here, before the fire spreads,” says Feld as he steps in. He coughs as he inhales the small wisps of smoke present in this side of the building.

Ash hears a cry of “help” faintly, coming from inside the building.

Lorryn finds nothing of interest.

When Mole asks for an axe, someone quickly hands him one. Apparently folks have the tools, but lack an idea of what to do with them.

Mortimer checks under the loading dock platform, but sees nothing.

Gid and his helpers rush onto the platform and start battering the door with the heavy oak bench they retrieved for the purpose. See map at k12. The door frame cracks and the door opens at their well placed blow. Smoke billows out of the newly created opening.

Manolo (Michael A) - HP 10/10 AC 17
Wednesday October 20th, 2021 7:32:31 PM
"We Have Explosives Here !", Manolo shouts as he sees all the barrels there.

Drack(Chris J) - hp 13/13 - AC 16
Wednesday October 20th, 2021 7:46:50 PM
Having heard the alarm bells, Drack races toward the commotion from a nearby farm to see if he can help. The well muscled half-elf has an occupied sword sheath on his left hip and wears a chain shirt.

As he closes, he calls out to the townsfolk nearby “Is anyone inside?”

Mole; (RichP) AC 18; HP 11; CMD 13 d20+1=5 ; d20+8=11 ;
Wednesday October 20th, 2021 10:08:04 PM
Mole moves with the axe and checks the door to see if its lock. If it is he begins smacking the hinges with the axe in an attempt to break the door of the frame.

Attack if I need it. AC 5

Perception DC 11

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 9 AC:14
Thursday October 21st, 2021 6:07:22 AM
"Well, we have water." Torryn confirmed somewhat needlessly, but felt it important to try to keep spirits up. She then turned and waved, trying to get the bucket line's attention.

"Feld, would you shout for me, please? My voice just turns into a ridiculous screech if I try to shout. I suspect I'd scare more people then actually get their attention."

OOC: Hoping that they can form a line from the store to the burning house. Again, Torryn is prepared to use Mending as necessary to ensure the functionality of buckets and barrels.

AC 13 HP 8/8 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K d20+2=13 ;
Thursday October 21st, 2021 10:58:28 AM
Loryn moves passing Ezra's on his right and continuing north and into that section of town. Pausing at a corner to listen to what is not going on with a building fire for which he can do nothing, the gnome listens for anything
Perception 13

Spells
4-1st- Color Spray, Magic Weapon
0 - Detect Magic, Read Magic, Mage Hand, -Message

Gnome: 1/day Dancing Lights, Prestidigitation, Ghost Sound, Speak with Animals
Sorcerer Ray 7/ day 30' 1d6

"We have explosives here!" (DM John)
Thursday October 21st, 2021 1:12:37 PM

Manolo calls out a warning about the whiskey barrels.
Drack, having grown up near Windhorn, spent the night at one of the local farmer’s houses while in town on business. He responds to the alarm and asks a question.
Mole helps break down another door. AC is 3, so that’s a hit. Need to roll damage and overcome its hardness of 5.
Torryn beckons to the bucket brigade.
Lorryn continues to look and listen but finds nothing out of the ordinary.

Outside, the bucket line forms up. Feld, taking his cue from Torryn, calls out, gesturing to the warehouse door, “This way! Maybe we can get to where the fire is before the smoke fills up this side of the building.”

Meanwhile, Manolo’s call prompts more helpers to come in to assist in rolling the barrels out the door. Several sturdy men and women rush forward to do so.

Gid, the owner of the nearby Belt and Belch Tavern and the two men helping him beat in the door, stagger back, coughing as small billows out of the new opening they made.

Drack asks, “Is anyone inside?”
Between coughs and with a gesture into the open doorway, Gid answers, “Feld thinks Ezra’s in there.”

“In there” is the main section of the building. With the door broken away, a glow is now visible inside the distillery on the far side of the chamber. Large vats can be seen, back lit by the flames. Due to the smoke, it is difficult to make out and details or to see any sign of Ezra. Anyone wishing to enter runs the risk of succumbing to the smoke or getting trapped in the fire.

Orange squares on the map indicate where the fire currently is.

https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1mS8UkPPjk9OF7SkwnqkfvUE1l7xLVN1vyZxBVvSryvU/edit#gid=0

Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 10/10
Thursday October 21st, 2021 3:01:35 PM
Ash's ears perk up. " Did you hear that? " he asks the closest townsperson. " Someone's in there ."

Ash moves up to a window or door, trying to open it to get to the voice.

Drack(Chris J) - hp 13/13 - AC 16 d20+4=24 ;
Thursday October 21st, 2021 3:18:06 PM
Drack quickly tears the sleeve off of his night shirt, and ties it around the back of his head so that it covers his mouth. He thinks to himself that it might help to hold off the worst of the smoke if he has to gasp for a breath while inside.

He moves to the door, and if open, takes several quick deep breaths, followed by a very deep breath, and heads in, in a crouch, looking for Ezra.

If the door is not all the way open yet, he will attempt to kick in what remains of it. (strength check of 24, nat 20) After which, he will take a deep breath and head in.

Drack (Chris J) - hp 13/13 - AC 16
Thursday October 21st, 2021 3:24:17 PM
(computer stuff isn't my thing if anyone can assist)

Corrected, but see the explanation below for the next time you need to do it.

Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.) - HP: 8/8. AC:13
Thursday October 21st, 2021 6:04:57 PM
LOL.. No try this! Put a [ at the beginning of link.

link href="PUT YOUR COMPLETE GOGGLE DOC LINK HERE"]Drack[/link] (Chris J.) - HP: 13/13. AC:16

Manolo (Michael A) - HP 10/10 AC 17 d20=20 ;
Thursday October 21st, 2021 10:02:07 PM
Manolo helps with putting the fire down.
"We need to speed up", he tells everybody near.
If he is near Drack and aware of the situation, Manolo will try to direct the people to help Drack in some way like putting focusing some of the attention (putting down the fire) near him if possible.
Aid another aid Drack 20 natural 20
If not near Drack then just focus on the fire.

Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.) - HP: 8/8. AC:13 d20+1=21 ;
Thursday October 21st, 2021 10:08:53 PM
Mortimer can only see phantoms in the underdark of the loading dock. Waking nightmares he's become all too familiar with. Nothing substantial or helpful. 'You can't win them all,' he thinks.

Loud crashes from above steal his attention. Doors are beginning to be forcefully influenced open. Mortimer darts up the stairs and attempts to peer around the girth of Gird into a smoky doorway. He can see the glow of flames in the back of the room silhouetting several tanks in the foreground. He listens for calls for help or someone choking to death. (Perception: 21, natural 20!)

Mole; (RichP) AC 18; HP 11; CMD 13 d6+1=6 ; d20+1=5 ; d6+1=3 ;
Thursday October 21st, 2021 10:12:38 PM
(Axe damage 6)

Mole continues to beat on the hinges of the door. This time he cannot do much to the door as the axe bounces harmlessly off the wood.

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 9 AC:14
Friday October 22nd, 2021 6:37:45 AM
It suddenly struck Torryn that the fie was adjacent to the water storage area. Surely she could simply knock a barrel over thereby dousing the area and helping to prevent the fire's spread. With the way 'cleared', art least in part, she could advance and by toppling another barrel make further progress towards saving any that yet remained within. there was however, a lot of smoke and moving into the building would be risky. Yet the smoke was rising. Staying low could obviate much of the threat. The notion was an exciting one. Perhaps they could bring about a swift resolution to this dangerous matter.

"Let's topple a barrel" She urges Feld. !Into the room; that'll slow the fire's spread and maybe we can gain access through the back."

(OOC: Looking at the map, it seems that a toppled barrel going into the main room might well work wonders in dousing the fire. Of course, there's the small matter of getting there.)

AC 13 HP 8/8 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K d20+2=5 ;
Friday October 22nd, 2021 12:08:17 PM
Loryn continues into the northern part of Windhorn heading towards 'The Green Grape' and the Chapel of Wardd

Spells
4-1st- Color Spray, Magic Weapon
0 - Detect Magic, Read Magic, Mage Hand, -Message

Gnome: 1/day Dancing Lights, Prestidigitation, Ghost Sound, Speak with Animals
Sorcerer Ray 7/ day 30' 1d6

"Someone's in there!" (DM John)
Saturday October 23rd, 2021 11:49:50 AM

Ash alerts others to what he heard inside the building. nearest door is F12, then K12. Windows are all too high to reach (15’ above ground)
Drack makes preparations then enters the burning building. He kicks the door clear and heads inside. Entering a burning building to rescue someone is the epitome of heroism. Drack earns one hero point!
Manolo moves to assist Drack.
Mortimer hears the door broken down and listens for cries of help from inside. He hears a shout coming from inside the building. It sounds like it is probably on the far side of the room.
Torryn assists in moving the barrels of potential fuel out of the warehouse. It will take some time to get the barrels out to relative safety, but due to Torryn’s persistence, the process is started and this significant hazard is now being mitigated. Torryn earns one hero point!
Lorryn continues his search for other mischief.

The barrels in the warehouse are stacked on racks for aging. At Torryn’s cry, Feld rushes in with her and shows her how the mechanism works to ease the barrels off of the rack so that they can be rolled out onto the platform, and from there, away from the burning building. Two more townsfolk rush in to assist. The first drum drops off the rack with a resounding thud. The nearest helper gives it a shove to start it rolling toward the door.

Drack, and Manolo, see the various tanks used in making whiskey silhouetted by the glow of the fire on the far side. The smoke has been filling the 20’ high chamber such that a thick black cloud billows mere inches above head height. Despite the added ventilation of the now open door, the smoke layer continues to descend. A frantic cry of “help” can be heard over the crackling of the fire. It sounds like it is coming from the far side of the building, behind a growing wall of burning debris. The cry is coming from approximately J2 on the map.

https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1mS8UkPPjk9OF7SkwnqkfvUE1l7xLVN1vyZxBVvSryvU/edit#gid=0

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 9 AC:14
Saturday October 23rd, 2021 12:35:21 PM
Torryn was extremely grateful to Feld. She'd assumed that the barrels contained water and nothing more. Had she proceeded with her plan, she'd have likely razed the entire building in double quick time! As it was she worked methodically, yet quickly to try to negate that threat. The extra help was most welcome. Even so, she felt that her own efforts were barely adequate. That thought spurred her to press on. she'd help, even if it was only in a small way.

Mole; (RichP) AC 18; HP 11; CMD 13 d20+8=28 ;
Saturday October 23rd, 2021 7:31:38 PM
Hearing the cries of help, Mole moves into the warehouse. The heat, no different than the dwarven forges at home, are no concern for the dwarf. "Helps here." Mole quickly surveys the scene.

Perception DC 28

Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.) - HP: 8/8. AC:13 d20+3=9 ; d3=2 ;
Saturday October 23rd, 2021 10:20:45 PM
As the smoke begins to vent out the open doors and his eyes adjust to the darkness, he clearly hears the cries of Ezra within. As he begins to make his way inside, Mortimer is reminded of the only other time he's run into a burning building. Even in precarious moments like this, there's always time for a flashback!

[Flashback]
Mortimer, at the tender age of eight, had already begun his career as a thief and a life on the street. As he made his way around the larger cities of the lower Plateaus, Mortimer had teamed up with another likeminded lad. He no longer remembers his name. A particularly charitable bakery gave out free loaves of bread to the poor and destitute on certain days of the week. Street kids were often among those numbers to receive a free meal. However, on this day, one of the nearby grain mills exploded from an excess of grain dust. The fires from this explosion swiftly moved to nearby structures, including the bakery. Many of the poor were running into the burning bakery to grab what they could, including young Morty and his friend. A large fiery, wooden beam fell upon the two but only Mortimer was able to avoid being pinned underneath it. His unlucky friend cried out for his help as the beam laid burning upon him. He reached out his hand for help, but young Morty could do nothing but stare ... at first. Instead Mortimer reached back and grabbed the loaf of bread from his outreached hand. With one last look, young Morty turned and ran from the bakery. Even though there was little to no chance he could've saved him, Mortimer always felt bad about that moment. Maybe now he could redeem himself.
[/Flashback]

Mortimer takes a deep breath and rushes in behind Mole. He sees the fires easily now and that Ezra is behind them. He isn't sure it would work, but he gives his magic a try. He extends his arm, above Mole, and releases a ray of freezing air and ice at the fire (J4)

(Mortimer casts Ray of Frost at the Fire in square J4. Hit Touch AC: 9. Dealing 2 points of Frost damage. Hope it deals double damage to fire :)

Manolo (Michael A) - HP 10/10 AC 17
Sunday October 24th, 2021 9:26:02 PM
"Do you have any plan?" , He asks the others.
He stays where he is not sure how to assist the others as the smoke scares him unable to move for the time being.

Drack (Chris J) - hp 13/13 - AC 16
Monday October 25th, 2021 8:10:04 AM
Seeing two people blocking the path through the left side of the fermentation tank ahead of him, Drack moves around the right side, and toward the sound of the calls for help on the far side of the room. He will take a double move if possible, also going around the still on the right side, away from the fire, and toward the back wall. He will stay partly crouched, keeping his head below the smoke layer accumulating above his head, taking breaths as he can to keep his air supply replenished for a rescue attempt if possible.

As the fighter moves, he tries to figure out if it's likely that any of the tanks contain non-flammable liquids

"Help's here." (DM John)
Monday October 25th, 2021 11:04:52 AM

Torrynashkabbeth continues to “rescue” the whiskey barrels from the fire.
Mole moves into the main section of the building, looking around carefully.
Mortimer experiences a momentary flashback and thinks of redemption. Nicely done. Mortimer receives a hero point for excellent character development! He then tries to fight fire with ice.
Manolo stays outside the burning building, ready to assist.
Drack also moves into the burning building. Almost everyone knows a little about making alcohol, and Drack is no exception. He realizes that the opens tanks he is passing by likely contain too much water to be flammable.

To clarify: the west side of the building is the “warehouse”; the larger section on the east side is the production area and offices. It is the production area that Mole, Mortimer, and Drack have entered.

The townsfolk respond to Torryn and Feld’s efforts and start removing whiskey barrels. One of the helpers, Torryn recalls his name is Rob or Roy or something like that suddenly cries out in pain, “Watch what you’re doing!” Torryn immediately realizes that one of the levers used to move the barrels slipped and struck him soundly in the shins.

Inside the production area, the fermentation tanks, Ezra would call them washbacks, stand about 10 tall. Each one has a permanent scaffold accessible by stairs to provide access to their tops. A pipe that is routed over the top of each tank down into the liquid inside and over the outside, ending about four feet above the floor. Coils of heavy hose, the right diameter to fit onto the pipes, are mounted on pegs attached to the outside of each tank. Several empty wooden buckets rest on the floor near the hoses.

Once inside, Mole notices several things. First, as the smoke level is continuing to lower, his two taller companions are now having to bend over to keep his head out of the ever descending layer of smoke. Second, he has pinpointed the location of Ezra. Trapped behind a wall of flame, the frightened distiller cowers on the floor, hands protectively covering his head. The third thing he notices are some odd contraptions mounted on a rack next to the washbacks. They appear to be some kind of hand pump.

Between them and the rear of the building, what is effectively a wall of fire blocks their way. The primary fuel appears to be a combination of open barrels and perhaps a bit of alcohol as well. Attempting to move through the flame could prove deadly. The fire itself is quite large, but a focused effort with a lot of extinguishing material could put them out.

Mortimer’s ice disappears into the flames with an angry hiss. It proves to be insufficient by itself to have any significant effect on the fire.

Ezra responds to Moles announcement, “Here! I’m trapped back here behind the flames!”

AC 13 HP 8/8 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K
Monday October 25th, 2021 11:32:58 AM
Loryn cintinues going through the northern part of town

Spells
4-1st- Color Spray, Magic Weapon
0 - Detect Magic, Read Magic, Mage Hand, -Message

Gnome: 1/day Dancing Lights, Prestidigitation, Ghost Sound, Speak with Animals
Sorcerer Ray 7/ day 30' 1d6

Mole; (RichP) AC 18; HP 11; CMD 13 d20+1=11 ; d20+8=20 ;
Monday October 25th, 2021 12:11:22 PM
With axe in hand, Mole runs and jumps through the fire, landing on the other side. He surveys the space and looks at the trapped townsfolk. "Alright, I'm gonna get ya out."

Mole notices that there's space around the still and ushers Ezra that direction. "Stay low and move steadily around the still."

After he can see Ezra moving around the still, Mole will follow.

Jump DC11; Perception DC 20

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 9 AC:14
Monday October 25th, 2021 12:56:43 PM
"Rob, don't be a baby.! Torryn scolded. "You won't be feeling any pain once Ezra let's you have some the whisky you save. IF you save it." She hoped to embarrass him into forgetting about the pain in his leg. "Now, com eon, guys - we can do this!"

Whilst ostensibly encouraging those that had nobly assisted her cause, Torryn's mind couldn't help but ponder whether her "Fey Spark" - her lightning would be sufficient to break open the wash back tuns. Even if she could do that, there was no guarantee that there was any liquid in them. She'd no way of knowing what stage of fermentation Ezra was at. Those large tuns were periodically emptied. The residue made good feed for livestock or fertilizer for crops. Her attention shifted back again. She didn't want any more accidents. There'd been more than enough of those already. If her 'fey spark' was needed, they'd call for her.

Manolo (Michael A) - HP 10/10 AC 17
Monday October 25th, 2021 7:35:02 PM
Manolo is still frightened a bit unsure what to do ?

Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.) - HP: 8/8. AC:13 d20+1=21 ;
Monday October 25th, 2021 10:10:38 PM
(Perception: 21, another natural 20!!)

Mortimer yells back at the entrance, "THE FIRE IS IN HERE! WE NEED WATER!"

Mortimer knows that distilleries should have a multitude sacks of grain and hops, hopefully some of them that are empty, lying around the place. A nice burlap sack could be used to beat the fire out. There should be a water source as well; and a bucket or two. He quickly looks for these things (above Perception check).

Mortimer will approach the closest and quickest extinguishing source he sees (empty sacks, water source, or whatever).

IF he sees a water pump, Mortimer puts his hand under the spout gives it a half pump until it fills his hand. Mortimer tastes it to make sure it is indeed water and not alcohol from the tanks. If it's water, he will scoot a nearby bucket under the spout and begins to fill it with water.

IF not, he looks for empty grain or hop sacks, or anything, to beat the fire out.

Drack (Chris J) - hp 13/13 - AC 16
Tuesday October 26th, 2021 8:11:41 AM
Still in a crouch, Drack watches a Dwarf run through the flames toward the trapped person, and thinks to himself "If the Dwarf can't get them out, then the only way is to put out the fire".

Seeing the Apparatus hooked up to the fermentation tanks, he moves over to help the human that is already there, and grabs a hose to attach to the pipe.

"If we work together, one of us on the pump, the other on the end of the hose, once we attach it, we can use the hose to put the liquid directly onto the fire instead of messing with the buckets."

Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 10/10
Tuesday October 26th, 2021 9:51:08 AM
Ash is momentarily distracted by the flame, but the.moment passes. He moves to the door at F12, and tries it to get inside to the voice he heard.

"WE NEED WATER!" Round 3 (DM John) d6=2 ; d20=17 ; d20=20 ; d20=20 ; d20=5 ; d20=17 ; d20=7 ; d20=9 ; d20=17 ;
Tuesday October 26th, 2021 4:16:17 PM

Loryn checks the north side of town. It appears that everyone has responded, in some way or another, to the alarm. It would, in fact, be a great diversion, but the only activity he sees is around Ezra’s and the river that forms the primary water source.
Mole jumps over the fire to get to Ezra. Mole’s turn to earn a hero point!
Torrynashkabbeth chastises “Rob” and provides further encouragement to save the whiskey. She considers blasting the washbacks but understands it might not be helpful. She also realizes that her fey spark would not be powerful enough to sufficiently damage the thick walled tanks.
Manolo hesitates.
Mortimer calls for water. He looks around for means to fight the fire.
Drack works with Mortimer to quench the fire, proposing using the pump rather than buckets.

Please note that we are tracking in rounds. The DM is calling this post Round 3.

As Mole leaps over the burning debris, the flames lick at his legs. Mole only Highlight to display spoiler: {Mole needs to roll a DC15 reflex save. On a failure, take 2 points of damage and he is now on fire. If on fire, it takes a full round action to put yourself out; otherwise, take 1d6 fire damage each round.} Once on the other side he realizes that the fire has blocked off the space behind the still as well. Ezra reaches out, his soot coated face a caricatured portrait of surprise in reaction to the sudden and unexpected appearance of a rescuer.

Mortimer’s survey of his surroundings reveals the following. There are plenty of empty sacks, several within easy reach. Similarly, there are several buckets scattered around. Two of them contain water (the not congealed kind) placed around the work room. There are also several full bags of grain. Other than the hand pump used to prime the fermentation tank lines, there is no pump, but he spies a set of barrels, clearly marked “water” on a tower at the outside corner of the offices (at M7). His quick test of the spigot does reveal that it is, in fact, water. He suspects that there might be a hoist system above it, but the thick smoke filling the room from the top down prevents him from being able to see it.

Drack, meanwhile, is positioned to quench the fire with the contents of the ferment tanks. A quick inspection reveals that the hose connects to the pipe from the nearest tank using a clamp already in place and that attaching the hose and priming with the hand pump should only require one person to accomplish. The DM is assuming that Drack moved to the piping last round. Attaching the hose requires a Dexterity check. If the check beats a DC 5, then attaching it is a move action; otherwise, it’s a standard action. Priming the line is a standard action. Following that, spraying liquid on the fire is a standard action.

Outside, Mortimer’s cry causes an eruption of activity as people start shouting to reposition the bucket brigade. A farmhand rushes out of the repositioning line to run up to the doorway. After a quick look at the smoke billowing out of it, he shoves a sloshing barrel of water into Manolo’s hands, “HERE!” he shouts before running back to the line. Manolo realizes that it is unlikely anyone in the bucket brigade will risk going inside the building, but, judging by their actins, buckets of water will soon be on their way there.

Some rules:
For characters inside the building: assume a single move action will get you anyone in the room.
A fire can be quenched with sufficient quantity of water or smothering material. The quantity will have to be learned.
An action can focus on quenching one 5’ square at a time.
Once quenched the fire will not be able to reignite a square.
Each burning square has a chance of spreading every round.
The smoke is now thick enough and low enough that next round (that is, after the DM’s next post) creatures in the working area of the building will need to make fortitude saves to avoid succumbing to the smoke. No need for that save this round.

https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1mS8UkPPjk9OF7SkwnqkfvUE1l7xLVN1vyZxBVvSryvU/edit#gid=0

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 9 AC:14
Tuesday October 26th, 2021 5:16:47 PM
Things were moving so slowly, yet time was paradoxically speeding by. Getting the whisky out was not only good for the town's morale, it was even better for Ezra and possibly the town as a whole. Were the fire to spread, more homes could be lost.

She darted into the building, keeping low. For once she was thankful for being so small. Torryn toppled a barrel and trundled it towards the exit as quickly as she could. How many more were there? It was getting difficult to tell.

Manolo (Michael A) - HP 10/10 AC 17 d20+5=15 ;
Tuesday October 26th, 2021 9:42:50 PM
"What is going on there ?!", Manolo shouts, scared as he thinks something is going wrong.
He enters the building.
He starts to slowly smell fire.....
Perception 15

Mole; (RichP) AC 18; HP 11; CMD 13 d20+2=13 ; d20+1=12 ;
Tuesday October 26th, 2021 10:33:11 PM
Trapped behind the wall of flame, Mole sees his options diminishing quickly. "Lad, I'm gonna carry ya out of here. Get on my shoulder." Should Ezra let Mole throw him over his shoulder, Mole will move through fire as quickly as his stubby legs will take him, 20-ft.

If it all goes as planned, Mole calls to Mort and Drack "I'm coming across! Get Ezra out quickly!"

Reflex save DC 13, Jump DC 12 (fails Mole goes through the fire)

Mole; (RichP) AC 18; HP 9/11; CMD 13
Tuesday October 26th, 2021 10:33:59 PM
Adjusting header.

Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.) - HP: 8/8. AC:13 d20+4=15 ;
Tuesday October 26th, 2021 11:30:57 PM
(ooc: I hope I understand what you meant. M7 is a large, sealed water barrel on it's side with a spigot, that rests on a tower and connected to a hoist?? I'm assuming the spigot is positioned to let water spill to the floor or into a bucket if placed below it.)

Mortimer takes one of the full buckets of water and dumps it on the fire (L5). He then drops the bucket under the spigot of the water tower and opens the valve. Hopefully a deluge of water begins to gush and stream forth into bucket.

"OYE! GET THOSE BUCKETS IN HERE ... NOW, PEOPLE!!" Mortimer uses the full force of his charisma in the request ... or was it a command.

(Diplomacy [Make Request]: 15)

Drack (Chris J) - hp 13/13 - AC 16 d20+2=17 ;
Wednesday October 27th, 2021 8:25:06 AM
Drack quickly attaches the hose to the piping(dex check 17), and primes the pump. with primed hose in hand, he then looks toward the fire and prepares to use the contents of the fermentation tanks to start dousing the flames.

"WE NEED WATER!" Round 3 (DM John) d20=4 ; d6=4 ; d6=5 ; d20=13 ; d20=18 ; d20=20 ; d20=16 ; d20=14 ; d20=6 ; d20=19 ; d20=4 ; d20=7 ; d20=3 ; d20=13 ; d20=6 ;
Wednesday October 27th, 2021 12:01:09 PM

Torrynashkabbeth continues to lead the others in clearing the barrels from the warehouse. She realizes that there are dozens remaining.
Manolo slowly enters the building. Where does Manolo go? Please position his “Ma” on the map or tell me what coordinate to move him to.
Mole ignores the fact that he caught fire getting to Ezra as he grabs the trapped distiller and hauls him back through the fire.
Mortimer calls for buckets and uses one at hand to fight the fire. Yes, at M7 is an elevated barrel. It has a spigot at about 4’ above the floor. It can be used to fill barrels or buckets or just spill on the floor (at M7).
Drack, meanwhile, adroitly connects the hose and gets the siphon primed. Where is Drack? He’s on the map at K11, but to access the fermentation hoses, he needs to be at J9, J8, or J7. Drack’s choice as he has had ample opportunity to move to either of those locations. Range of the hose is 10’ from either of those squares.

Some hero points have been earned here. It may be helpful to know that a hero point will nullify the risk of smoke inhalation for a full round, no roll necessary.

Several people are working on clearing the potential fuel from the warehouse. Torryn notes that there are several dozen barrels still remaining that have to be removed from their racks and cleared from the building before the fire spreads to that side. Curses sound out from the doorway. It appears that one of the rolling barrels veered off course hitting the side of the door and careening into another barrel. The two barrels are now lodged in the doorway. Unkind words compete with the growing roar of the fire as several folk struggle to pry the wedged barrels free. “It’s like these barrels are working against us,” grunts “Rob” as he strains against one of the barrels.

Ezra shakes his head fearfully as Mole offers to lift him, but offers no real resistance. Given his burden, the dwarf’s jump is more like a hop, but still sufficient to get him through the wall of fire. Still on fire, Mole takes 4 more points of damage. Once on the other side, he realizes that Ezra is now on fire as well. Panicking, the burning man struggles to get out of Mole’s grip. Despite his fear, he has sense enough to bury his head in Mole’s chest to protect his lungs from the smoke.

As Manolo steps into the room, he is almost immediately overwhelmed by smoke. Manolo make a Fortitude Save DC 12. On a failure, Manolo is overcome with choking and coughing and can only take a single move action. Through the haze, he can see flames in the back and motion ahead, probably Drack and Mortimer.

The smoke has completely filled the room. In addition to Manolo, Mole, Drack, and Mortimer all need to make Fortitude Saves DC 12. Drack’s mouth covering will give him a +5 to the save. Mole’s dwarven hardy ability will give him a +2. Anyone who fails is overcome with choking and coughing and can only take a single move action.

A dazed bucketeer rushes forward at Mortimer’s command. The nearest fire he sees is a burning man and dwarf. With a hiss, the two are dowsed and quenched, no longer on fire!
The townsman manages to avoid most of the smoke and avoids succumbing to it. (for now.)

Summary
Mole on fire: 4 more points of fire damage. No longer on fire.
Ezra on fire: 5 damage.
Bucketeer at J8: saved versus smoke inhalation.

https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1mS8UkPPjk9OF7SkwnqkfvUE1l7xLVN1vyZxBVvSryvU/edit#gid=0

Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 10/10
Wednesday October 27th, 2021 12:44:00 PM
Ash still fidgets with the door.

Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.) - HP: 8/8. AC:13 d20+3=14 ; d20+1=21 ;
Wednesday October 27th, 2021 11:09:12 PM
(Fort Save: 14 vs smoke)

With Mole jumping through the flames with Ezra and the townie having soused them both with water, Mortimer can't help but shout a few encouraging words in celebration...

"WHOA YEAH! THAT'S HOW IT'S DONE, HEROES! AFTER THE FIRE, NEXT ROUND OF DRINKS ARE ON EZRA!"

Mortimer then takes the bucket, that was filling with water, and douses the flames nearest Ezra (J5). He then drops the bucket back under the spigot. He looks up and wonders about this water barrel's hoisting mechanism; hoping that it's mobile. (Perception: 21, a third natural 20!)

Mole; (RichP) AC 18; HP 5/11; CMD 13 d20+7=11 ;
Thursday October 28th, 2021 1:01:09 AM
Mole uses a hero point to avoid the affects of the smoke.

On the other side of the fire, Mole drops Ezra to the ground and begins to put out the fire on him. "Don't worry, I can take care of the burns once I get the flames out."

Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.) - HP: 8/8. AC:13
Thursday October 28th, 2021 2:04:34 AM
(ooc: The fire on Mole and Ezra was put out during the previous round.)

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 9 AC:14
Thursday October 28th, 2021 7:17:07 AM
"Calm down. Let's not try to do everything at once." Torryn urged her helpers. There was no shouting. That wouldn't help at all. "Careful with the barrels. If some of you could roll them farther away from the distillery, that would be great. Hopefully, we can prevent this escalating." She did her best to sound calm and encouraging. The last thing they needed were frayed tempers. The villagers were holding it together well though. She flashed a smile before darting back inside to retrieve another barrel. She had to keep very low this time. She took a deep breath and ran. She dropped low beside a barrel and then heaved on the lip to pull it onto its side - so much easier for rolling.

Mole; (RichP) AC 18; HP 5/11; CMD 13
Thursday October 28th, 2021 7:46:44 AM
(ooc: Thanks Stephen. I thought so but I couldn't find it.)

With the fires out, Mole continues to carry Ezra out of the warehouse. Once outside, and Ezra is out of danger, Mole will set him down and heal his burns.

Drack (Chris J) - hp 13/13 - AC 16 d20+9=23 ;
Thursday October 28th, 2021 8:36:03 AM
(Drack will be at J7)

Drack is able to disregard the effects of the smoke at the moment(fort save 23), and moves to an already quenched J5, and begins using the hose to quench the burning areas around him, starting with I5.

Calling out to whomever is in earshot, since he doesn't know the people around him. "I'm not sure we can save the building. The fire has already spread to a large area. We may need to get out of here shortly. I'll work on putting this side out if you can put out any fire on the the other end."

"Let's not try to do everything at once." Round 5 (DM John) d20=10 ; d20=6 ; d20=20 ; d20=16 ; d20=3 ; d20=7 ; d20=4 ; d20=7 ; d20=7 ; d20=14 ; d20=11 ; d20=18 ; d20=1 ;
Thursday October 28th, 2021 5:24:54 PM

Ash Ash fidgets with the door. What door? Please note where on the map Ash is.
Mortimer celebrates Mole getting Ezra past the wall of flame and works on putting it out.. He gets a brief view through the heavy smoke and notes that the hoist mechanism is on a rail that extends to the wall past the fermentation tankl. (Rail runs from M7 to H7.) length in front of the tower, but no further. (Rail extends to L7).
Mole heroically ignores the smoke and hauls Ezra to safety . He pats out the fire on Ezra.
Torrynashkabbeth encourages the townsfolk and continues to remove barrels.
Drack avoids the effects of the smoke and continues to fight the fire.

The folks at the doorway rush to grab Ezra and assist Mole out of the burning building. A few people cheer at the successful rescue, but their focus remains on assisting with the fire.

With Torryn’s encouragement, those removing the barrels continue to make progress. Smoke is starting to build up on this side, as well, but not so bad as to be an immediate hazard.

The Fortitude DC to avoid smoke inhalation is now 13.

Drack and Mortimer put out more of the fire. The forward spread of the fire is drastically reduced by their firefighting efforts.

It has been contained to the back of the building for now, but how long before the fire breaks through the walls?

https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1mS8UkPPjk9OF7SkwnqkfvUE1l7xLVN1vyZxBVvSryvU/edit#gid=0

Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 10/10
Thursday October 28th, 2021 5:30:38 PM
From Tuesday... i assumed since he wasn't mentionef in Monday or Tuesdays Dm Posts, that he was busy....

Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 10/10
Tuesday October 26th, 2021 9:51:08 AM
Ash is momentarily distracted by the flame, but the.moment passes. He moves to the door at F12, and tries it to get inside to the voice he heard.

Manolo (Michael A) - HP 10/10 AC 17 d20+1=21 ; d20+1=20 ;
Thursday October 28th, 2021 9:33:32 PM
Fortitude 21 (natural 20, 20+1). (first round)
Fortitude 20 (19+1)( second round)

Manolo moves further inside coughing a little bit but still managing to succumb. to the smoke effects just yet
He takes a deep breath as he tries to take a a closer look at the surroundings.
' What would be the best course of action ', he thinks

Manolo (Michael A) - HP 10/10 AC 17 d20=10 ;
Thursday October 28th, 2021 9:40:08 PM
Manolo moves near Mort and Drack.
He tries to aid Drack wit the fire fighting efforts.

Aid another = 10

Manolo should be at 7K if possible

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 9 AC:14 d20=19 ;
Friday October 29th, 2021 7:06:11 AM
Torryn's plan to keep low proved efficacious in negating the threat of the smoke. Laying on her back she was able to use her feet to kick the barrel towards the open doorway and beckoning hands. That done she rolled over and crawled back out. The smoke was not getting any better. She wasn't sure how many more times she could venture forth without succumbing to it.

OOC: How many barrels yet remain?
F:19, Save made.

Mole; (RichP) AC 18; HP 5/11; CMD 13 d8+1=5 ;
Friday October 29th, 2021 8:17:58 AM
Mole clears the warehouse and takes a breath of fresher air. He moves over to a safe location with Ezra.

"Let me take care of those burns now so I can back to the fire. Gabhail ri leigheas na tìre." he says while placing a hand over the burned area on Ezra.

As the magic takes effect, Mole can see burns begin to heal until all the burns have returned to normal (5 points healed)

Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.) - HP: 8/8. AC:13 d20+3=8 ; d20+3=13 ; d20+4=16 ;
Friday October 29th, 2021 11:19:26 AM
(Fort Save: 8. Hero Point Reroll: 13, success!)

Mortimer takes the filled bucket and douses another area of flame (L4).

He then shouts back asking, "OYE! WHERE'S THAT BUCKET BRIGADE I KEEP HEARING RUMORS ABOUT?"

(Diplomacy [Make Request]: 16)

Drack (Chris J) - hp 13/13 - AC 16 d20+9=18 ;
Friday October 29th, 2021 11:42:49 AM
Drack continues to fight through the smoke(fort save 18) And yells back towards the door...

"The fire is on the back wall!! if you have enough people, cut a hole in it, and start putting water on it from the back side!!"

He had moved to J5 last round, and now directs the water hose upon J4

AC 13 HP 8/8 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K d20+2=19 ;
Friday October 29th, 2021 12:09:19 PM
Sorry about missing this week

Loryn heads down to the river to take a look about. Perception 19

Spells
4-1st- Color Spray, Magic Weapon
0 - Detect Magic, Read Magic, Mage Hand, -Message

Gnome: 1/day Dancing Lights, Prestidigitation, Ghost Sound, Speak with Animals
Sorcerer Ray 7/ day 30' 1d6

Drack (Chris J) - hp 13/13 - AC 16
Monday November 1st, 2021 10:06:18 AM
Drack waits for any sort of response from the townsfolk in the front, and hopes that he can put out fire faster than it spreads.

Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.) - HP: 8/8. AC:13
Monday November 1st, 2021 11:47:31 AM
As Mortimer waits for his bucket to fill back up, he begins to notice phantoms from the darkness and smoke moving in closer to him. In response, Mortimer mutters between coughs, "Give my kingdom, I would, for one of you worthless specters to pickup a bucket."

DM Steve -- The fire is on the back wall! d20=12 ;
Monday November 1st, 2021 9:56:01 PM
Ash tries to get in from the door where Feld is standing, having heard a voice. Feld redirects Ash -- Ezra was in the main section of the building, and Mole just brought him out to J13. The door Ash is trying leads to the warehouse, from which Torryn and Feld are removing barrels.
Mortimer repeatedly calls for a bucket brigade. One is forming, but not nearly as fast as he’d like. It looks like they may be effective next round.
Manolo moves near Mortimer and Drack and tries to help Drack fight the fire.
Torrynashkabbeth moves a barrel out of the building. The way they are working, each person can remove two barrels every three rounds. Right now, that’s Torryn, Feld, and two townsfolk. So far eight barrels have been moved. There are many more.
Loryn checks things out down at the river.
Mole hurries Ezra out of the building and into relatively fresh air. He casts a spell to heal Ezra’s burns.
Drack directs a hose at the flames.

Between the three of them, Mortimer, Manolo, and Drack beat back the fire in one area. But it continues growing in another. Ezra thanks Mole, but is beginning to realize that his livelihood is probably disappearing fast. Loryn finds the brigade to be well organized, and sees no sign of anyone trying to sabotage it.

The map Don't forget the fortitude saves because of the smoke.

Manolo (Michael A) - HP 10/10 AC 17 d20+1=7 ; d20=18 ;
Monday November 1st, 2021 10:41:50 PM
Manolo start coughing as the smoke starts to overwhelm him.
Apart from helping Drack he doesn't do anything else.
Fort save 7
Aid another 18 ( assuming this action is possible)

Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.) - HP: 8/8. AC:13 d20+3=15 ;
Tuesday November 2nd, 2021 12:46:41 AM
(Fort Save: 15)

Mortimer continues to fight back at the smoke and fire. It's almost as if breathing for him isn't necessary. His hide continues to cure in this smoke house.

His bucket again fills under the spigot and he extinguishes another area of flame (K4). He sets his bucket back under the spigot to refill.

He's done his best to ignore the phantoms and their constant, unblinking stares. "fine, you worthless wisps. be gone to the bog!"

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 9 AC:14 d20=17 ; d20=12 ; d20=17 ;
Tuesday November 2nd, 2021 6:11:52 AM
"Ash, can you help?" Asked Torryn. The more barrels that they could move, the better the chances of saving the building. She wasn't coughing. Her tactic of staying as low to the floor as she could was paying dividends; at least so far.

[F:17]

The same could not be said of one of her helpers. He backed away from the door, coughing and choking. The other man patted and then thumped his back as Torryn looked on solicitously. There wasn't much else that she could do.

[F:12 Assistant 1. F:17 Assistant 2]

She glanced back in seeking to determine where the greatest threat lay, but the smoke inhibited her efforts. She saw no point in over-thinking it. She's simply have to remove as many barrels as she could. Then again Torryn had never been accused of over-thinking things in her life!

Drack (Chris J) - hp 13/13 - AC 16 d20+9=12 ;
Tuesday November 2nd, 2021 8:24:53 AM
The smoke finally starts to get to Drack, impeding his ability to do much until he can lower his head and recover a little fresher air.(fort save 12)

Already standing at J5, he directs the already spraying hose onto I4 without having to do anything besides hold onto it, and point it.

Mole; (RichP) AC 18; HP 5/11; CMD 13
Tuesday November 2nd, 2021 9:41:53 AM
Mole takes some time to breath in some fresher air. He looks into the warehouse. If only he had prepared a water spell for the day, he would have been able to put out the fire fast and maybe save the building.

AC 13 HP 8/8 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K d20-1=13 ;
Tuesday November 2nd, 2021 9:49:11 AM
Loryn decides that the culprit or culprits must be long gone and moves down the bucket line towards Ezra's looking for the others to let them know. Catching up to Torry, Loryn does what he can to help her move barrels
Aid Another 13

"Thinking the town really needs to have a watch at night you know?"

Spells
4-1st- Color Spray, Magic Weapon
0 - Detect Magic, Read Magic, Mage Hand, -Message

Gnome: 1/day Dancing Lights, Prestidigitation, Ghost Sound, Speak with Animals
Sorcerer Ray 7/ day 30' 1d6

Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 10/10
Tuesday November 2nd, 2021 1:20:31 PM
"Yes, sorry. Door perplexed me for a bit. ", the tall mage says. He quickly goes to work, assisting moving the barrells.

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 9 AC:14
Tuesday November 2nd, 2021 6:25:17 PM
The extra help was most welcome. Torryn waved enthusiastically at Loryn.

"Be careful." She told him. "That smoke is getting thicker. it's best to stay as low as you can." Luckily she really wasn't that much taller than the gnome, so the irony of the comment was entirely lost on her. She temporarily, or possibly permanently, lost the aid of one of the volunteers, but now had two more. Her new friends seemed very capable and clever. In truth, she felt rather inadequate compared to them. She simply rushed headlong into things. Thinking generally came second, sometimes third.

Manolo (Michael A) - HP 10/10 AC 17 d20=6 ;
Tuesday November 2nd, 2021 8:22:41 PM
Manolo keeps helping Drack while coughing.

OOC: If another action is needed

DM Steve -- Thinking the town really needs to have a watch at night you know? d20=10 ;
Tuesday November 2nd, 2021 10:16:30 PM
Drack works on the flames at I4.
Ash offers to help move barrels, getting one of them to the door.
Mortimer, although distracted by phantoms, works on the flames at K4.
Loryn returns and starts working on the barrels. He suggests the town set up a night watch.
Torrynashkabbeth asks Ash to help move the barrels, while continuing to do so with her helpers. One of the men succumbs to a fit of coughing, but with Feld she and the other townsman save two more barrels. She repeats warnings about the smoke.
Manolo starts coughing, but doggedly continues to help. (1)
Mole regrets not having prepared the right orison.

For this round, the crew manages to reduce the fire somewhat, without it spreading in other areas. A ragged cheer goes up outside, as the bucket brigade gets their rhythm. Water should start arriving faster.

Barrels saved: 10 (with 2 on the way)

Everyone inside or going in and out of the building needs to make a DC 15 Fortitude save each round because of the smoke.

The map

Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.) - HP: 8/8. AC:13 d20+3=16 ;
Wednesday November 3rd, 2021 1:05:10 AM
(Fort Save: 16 vs. Smoke)

When a sickly infant was found on the steps of the White Warden Home for Orphans, no one expected it to live past the night. The child had other plans. On the third day, the Headmaster decided to choose a name. He had a simple system. He took the next letter in the alphabet, after the last name he chose. That letter turned out to be M. From the very beginning, Mortimer failed to live up to the Headmaster's expectations. His punishments were many and severe. His days were spent laboring and was often sent to bed without dinner. Often beaten for good measure, when this exercise failed to satisfy the Master's anger, little Mortimer was cast to the street to fend for himself. He wasn't expected to survive, being so young. Again, the child had other plans.

Mortimer coughs hard from the smoke, but he continues the fight with stark, raving defiance. He takes his bucket and sends its contents into the fire (L3).

He drops it back under the spigot. He says to no one in particular, "This bucket is MINE now! No one else can have it!"

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 9 AC:14 d20=8 ;
Wednesday November 3rd, 2021 8:29:38 AM
Torryn was all set to venture in once more when she inhaled a lungful of smoke! She reeled away from the door and that smoke. Coughing and almost retching she gasped in fresh air. It would take a few moments to regain her composure, but she found it shocking that even such a small amount of smoke could be so debilitating.

"Take care. that stuff is nasty" She croaked out, not at all sure that anyone had heard her rasping voice. It was also deeply frustrating that her Fey Magic could offer no assistance to this situation, but then she accepted that what she had was very limited. She really wasn't THAT Fey at all.

Drack (Chris J) - hp 13/13 - AC 16 d20+9=26 ;
Wednesday November 3rd, 2021 8:50:24 AM
Drack shakes off the effects of the smoke(fort save 26) and moves from J5 to I5, and continues spraying water from the charged hose onto H5.

While hosing down the flames, Drack looks behind him, hoping to see a bucket line putting water on the fire elsewhere, and happy to see the Dwarf nearby dealing with some of the spread.

Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 10/10 d20+3=6 ;
Wednesday November 3rd, 2021 9:11:15 AM
Ash goes back in to assist with another barrell. He tries staying low, but his height becomes a hindrance when he inhales too much smoke and begins choking and coughing. (FORT 6)

Mole; (RichP) AC 18; HP 5/11; CMD 13 d20+7=20 ; d20+8=26 ;
Wednesday November 3rd, 2021 4:18:23 PM
Mole catches his breath and heads back into the warehouse. He knows that the smoke will start to get to those inside and they will need to leave before they become too affected to be of use.

Fort save DC 20, Perception DC 26

Manolo (Michael A) - HP 10/10 AC 17 d20+1=6 ;
Wednesday November 3rd, 2021 7:49:33 PM
Manolo tries to follow Drack, unable to help he coughs more and more almost stumbling to the floor.

Fort save 6

DM Steve -- Take care. that stuff is nasty. d20=10 ; d6=6 ;
Wednesday November 3rd, 2021 10:46:44 PM
Drack continues to spray down the fire.
Mortimer remembers his childhood and thinks that smoke is not going to stop him as he fights the fire.
Mole heads back into the warehouse, knowing someone in there is bound to need a respite from the smoke.
Ash continues working, but also takes in some smoke. (1)
Manolo takes a second lungful of smoke.
Torrynashkabbeth also takes a lungful of smoke, which slows her a bit. (1)
Loryn is quiet.

Once again, the fire is diminished. But it is not dying quickly. Manolo starts violently choking. The bad news is that Manolo takes 6 HP damage (non-lethal) from smoke inhalation. The good news is that someone steps up to take his spot.

“Let’s help him out of here!” shouts Ezra, who has joined the brigade, pointing at Manolo. Manolo is not the only one so affected by the smoke, but he was on the front line of the fire fighting effort. “Someone get some cloths. Soak them in water for people to breathe through.”.

Barrels saved: 12

Everyone inside or going in and out of the building needs to make a DC 15 Fortitude save each round because of the smoke.

The map

Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.) - HP: 8/8. AC:13 d20+3=21 ;
Thursday November 4th, 2021 12:12:52 AM
(Fort Save: 21 vs smoke.)

[Note] Just wanted to state that Mortimer was not reminiscing about his childhood in the previous post. I merely began with a bit of history explaining his background and that he is much more hardy than what his sickly appearance (pale and gaunt) would have you believe.[/Note]

And AGAIN ... Mortimer fights off the effects of the heavy smoke. He does his best to muffle his cough, not wanting to give the fire and smoke the satisfaction. He takes his bucket of water and douses another area of flame (L2). A sly smile forms across this face, his strategy of divide and conquer is finally taking shape. His bucket makes a loud thud on the floor as it begins to refill under the spigot.

AC 13 HP 8/8 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K d20+2=3 ; d20+2=20 ;
Thursday November 4th, 2021 8:24:33 AM
Loryn helps Torry step back from the smoke billowing out of the warehouse, "Easy now. You're supposed to take a deep breath in and THEN go in." He says with a small grin and pat on her back.

Loryn then follows his own advise, takes a deep breath and heads in to see if he can assist with perhaps another barrel
He does not get far
Fort 3
Perception 20

Spells
4-1st- Color Spray, Magic Weapon
0 - Detect Magic, Read Magic, Mage Hand, -Message

Gnome: 1/day Dancing Lights, Prestidigitation, Ghost Sound, Speak with Animals
Sorcerer Ray 7/ day 30' 1d6

Drack (Chris J) - hp 13/13 - AC 16 d20+9=10 ;
Thursday November 4th, 2021 8:48:45 AM
The smoke, once again, starts to get to Drack(fort save 10). The fighter drops to a knee to try and breathe some fresher air, and does nothing but direct the already spraying hose at H4 from his position at I5

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 9 AC:14 d20=16 ; d20=14 ;
Thursday November 4th, 2021 10:55:34 AM
Torryn took a step back. She couldn't re-=enter the warehouse immediately. That would be foolish. She just needed a moment to purge her system of the smoke's effects. Whilst taking that moment she looked around. Was there anything else that she could use?

[Perception: 18]

She heard Ezra's shouts and smiled. The wet mask thing did sound like it would work. Certainly it was worth a try. Sadly she had no such cloth to hand.

[Recovery from smoke:14: just as a guide]

She coughed again. It did seem that the worst effects of the smoke were passed. "Anyone got something I can use as a mask? I mean filter. You know; what Ezra said." She concluded somewhat lamely. Everyone else appeared very decisive and certain. The fire though, was an entirely new phenomenon to her. It was not one that she particularly enjoyed. Whilst she loved dance, seeing flames doing it just wasn't as exciting.

Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 10/10 d20+3=17 ;
Thursday November 4th, 2021 6:53:55 PM
If there are more barrells to move, Ash heads back in to help. Otherwise he goes back in to make sure there aren't anymore survivors.

Fort Save 17

Manolo (Michael A) - HP 10/10 AC 17 d20+1=7 ;
Thursday November 4th, 2021 8:42:09 PM
Manolo keeps coughing and starts to move slowly towards the nearest exit while barely able to breath with all the smoke.

Fort save 7

Mole; (RichP) AC 18; HP 5/11; CMD 13 d20+7=9 ;
Thursday November 4th, 2021 10:05:37 PM
Mole starts to move up to help put out the fire and begins to hack and cough from the smoke. He moves to Drack but that's about all he can do.

DM Steve -- You're supposed to take a deep breath in and THEN go in. d20=20 ; d6=2 ;
Thursday November 4th, 2021 10:42:34 PM
Mortimer continues fighting the fire, dousing another part of the building..
Manolo moves away, continuing his coughing. (3)
Drack kneels, coughing, but continues to point his hose in the direction of the fire. (1)
Ash continues moving barrels.
Mole Mole moves in to help put out the fire, but can do no more because of the smoke. (1)
Loryn helps Torryn, then goes to get another barrel. He, too, finds the smoke too much at the moment. (1)
Torrynashkabbeth catches her breath. Hearing Ezra talking above covering people’s faces, she asks if anyone has something she can use.

A section of the north wall collapses. The fire, which had not been growing much recently, seems invigorated by the new flow of air that results. It flares up in all directions. With a metallic shriek, some of the coils on the still shudder and fall; most of the structure, however, appears undamaged.

Outside, there is a ripping sound, followed by a shout of, ”Masks coming!” They do not show up right away, however.

Manolo stumbles most of the way to the door, but takes another 2 (non-lethal) points of damage.

Barrels saved: 13

Everyone inside or going in and out of the building needs to make a DC 15 Fortitude save each round because of the smoke.

The map

Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.) - HP: 8/8. AC:13 d20+3=9 ; d20+3=10 ;
Thursday November 4th, 2021 11:42:35 PM
(Fort Save: 9. Hero point reroll: 10, fail.)

When a portion of the wall collapses, Mortimer looks up in surprise, "Ohh Blurgh!" is about all he can say before the draft sends a funnel of smoke and cinders into his face; choking out the remainder of his profanity. Finally the fire lands a critical hit. He goes down to a knee, hacking and coughing what little air he has left. His bucket begins to overfill. With his hand, he tries to splash some of the water into his face.

Mole; (RichP) AC 18; HP 5/11; CMD 13 d20+7=24 ;
Friday November 5th, 2021 8:15:05 AM
Mole covers his mouth and slows his breathing. As a result, he is able to get enough air to function normally for the next few moments.

He moves to Mort and grabs the bucket as the surface dweller begins to falter from smoke inhalation. "I'll take that." He says and he takes the bucket to the still and tosses the water on the fire.

Fort Save DC24

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 9 AC:14 d20=3 ;
Friday November 5th, 2021 8:27:54 AM
Torryn looked around and seeing her friends working so bravely and tirelessly, felt compelled to match their efforts, but as she approached the door, the mere smell of the smoke was enough to turn her stomach. She reeled away to dry heave. the coughing soon eased, but left her feeling weak. Being heroic was not as easy as the stories would have you believe!

[With a Fort save of 3, she never got close to helping.]

Drack (Chris J) - hp 13/13 - AC 16 d20+9=18 ;
Friday November 5th, 2021 8:43:23 AM
Drack recovers some fresh air with his face lower to the ground(fort save 18) and moves 5' to I4 and begins hosing down I3.

He does a quick look around and is glad to see Mole and Mortimer nearby, also doing what they can to douse the flames. "Not sure who those guys are, but glad to see them in here. Hopefully they heard me outside when I yelled about needing water at the back wall" he thinks to himself as he continues pushing forward.

AC 13 HP 8/8 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K
Friday November 5th, 2021 9:56:46 AM
Loryn coughs for a bit, the first blast of that smoke caught him completely unprepared. He dips his hand in a passing bucket real quick to get some water to splash across his face and help rub out his eyes. Someone had yelled about a back wall and Loryn moves to intercept some flok to get the bucket line to aim that direction.

"At the collapse, let's move this line to get water there"

Spells
4-1st- Color Spray, Magic Weapon
0 - Detect Magic, Read Magic, Mage Hand, -Message

Gnome: 1/day Dancing Lights, Prestidigitation, Ghost Sound, Speak with Animals
Sorcerer Ray 7/ day 30' 1d6

Manolo (Michael A) - HP 10/10 AC 17 d20+1=11 ;
Friday November 5th, 2021 9:03:25 PM
Manolo keeps coughing, 'Just a little bit more', he thinks as he keeps going out of the building.
'I will end up dead if I stay here , he thinks afterwards as he almost goes near the exit.

Manolo (Michael A) - HP 10/10 AC 17
Friday November 5th, 2021 9:03:36 PM
fort save 11

Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 10/10 d20+3=16 ;
Friday November 5th, 2021 9:20:20 PM
Ash again blocks the smoke from getting In his lungs. He looks around to make sure everyone is still headed in. The wall collapse scared him a bit, but this was his time to help, so he heads in for another barrell.

DM Steve -- Just a little bit more d20=5 ; d6=6 ;
Saturday November 6th, 2021 12:09:22 AM
Drack recovers a bit and continues fighting the fire. He talks a bit with the other fire fighters.
Mole moves to take over where Mortimer was.
Torrynashkabbeth inhales smoke again. At least she was recovered enough not to go into a coughing fit.
Loryn moves to redirect some of the bucket brigade.
Manolo keeps coughing as he tries to make his way out.
Mortimer succumbs to a funnel of smoke and cinders. He does what he can to try to recover. (1)
Ash saves another barrel.

Once more the fire is diminished through the efforts of those fighting it.

Manolo continues to cough and choke, taking an additional 6 points of (non-lethal) damage and collapsing in the doorway to the building. Although the damage has been non-lethal, Manolo is now unconscious. Someone moves him aside, where at least he is no longer breathing smoke.

Someone else hands a damp cloth to Torryn.

A second bucket brigade has formed to the north of the building.

With water coming at a faster rate, the fire is quickly under control, and then out. Ezra makes sure it is out, investigating every corner of the place thoroughly, even as his neighbors retreat outside for the fresh air. Then there’s a shout from inside the building. ”What the heck’s that?” Amid the wreckage is the body of what appears to be a small dog, but wearing clothes and equipped with a dagger and a shortbow. There is a similarly-sized “sword” out on the ground beside it.

In all, Ezra has lost the north wall of his building, and his still and a ferment tank have been damaged. All twenty four barrels of his whiskey were saved. He’s going to have to rebuild things and start his brewing and distilling anew, which has him angry. But others are quick to point out how much worse it would have been without quick thinking people, and Feld identifies Torryn and her friends as leading the effort. Further, Ezra recognizes Mole as his rescuer. He thanks the group profusely.

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 9 AC:14
Saturday November 6th, 2021 8:09:40 AM
Torryn was embarrassed. She didn't feel that she'd done anything more than anyone else. She raised a hand weakly in brief acknowledgement of the praise and set about making her way to Mortimer's side. he did not look well. Sadly, she had no knowledge whatsoever of the healing arts. If only she could dance him better. Dancing she could do. sadly dancing wasn't a great deal of use in situations such as this. So she stood, away from the residual smoke and savoured the clean air.

Mole; (RichP) AC 18; HP 5/11; CMD 13 d20+8=13 ;
Saturday November 6th, 2021 1:30:08 PM
Mole comes out of the warehouse, glad that the fire is out. He hears the surprise on discovering the dog-like creature, but at this point that is for someone else to deal with.

As his adrenaline calms, the extent of his burns become apparent to him. His legs are badly burnt from jumping through the fire. He limps his way away from the building and towards the tavern. "I need a drink." He says squinting to see his way because of the smoke still burning his eyes.

He acknowledges Ezra. "No need." He says.

As he walks, he takes a mental note of anyone burned from the fire. That'll be a job for tomorrow. For today, he's hot, tired and in pain. The only cure...alcohol.

Perception DC 13

Manolo (Michael A) - HP 10/10 AC 17
Saturday November 6th, 2021 8:42:37 PM
Manolo doesn't dream or think about anything when he is unconscious but the smell of smoke make him uneasy.

Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.) - HP: 8/8. AC:13
Sunday November 7th, 2021 7:22:01 PM
At some point after the fires were extinguished, Mortimer had reclaimed his bucket. He also had taken one of the empty cloth sacks, that once held grain or hops, and sat down on the edge of the loading dock. There he dipped the sack in water bucket and used it to wash away the soot he was now covered in. He's glad everything turned out, he just feels tired and a bit over cooked. It didn't help that he looked like a charred piece of meat. Other than an overwhelming smell of smoke and a slight cough, he was unhurt. He tries to be nonchalant about the whole ordeal. He's been here before.

"That's a good idea," he says as he watches Mole head over to the tavern. He slides off the edge of the loading dock and starts heading that way with his water bucket in hand. For some reason, he's grown attached to it. He pauses by the dead dog creature and gives it a casual glance. "We're going to have a little talk later on. You don't go anywhere."

He looks back to Torryn and the rest, "Might as well join us, the more the merrier."

AC 13 HP 8/8 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K d20+6=12 ; d20+6=15 ; d20+6=21 ;
Monday November 8th, 2021 7:45:13 AM
The gnome is curious at the shouts and heads in to find out what it is all about. His first reaction is of pity and a mixture of revulsion. Whatever the creature, being burned alive makes for a painful and horrid death. After his initial reaction he squats down for a better look, casting Detect Magic and Prestidigitation

To examine the area for possible magic and to change the smell to lavender so he could tolerate being so close

Mole heads out, the gnome guessing to where and he decides leaving the odd dwarf to his own right now is probably best. Mortimer, another odd fellow by the gnomes reckoning, was following Mole. Lorryn flicks his Prestidigitation magic at his to clean the man. " I'd prefer nothing happen here before we can see what we can learn. I'll catch up in the morning."

"Why don't you pick up Manolo there and find a spot a bit better the dirt for him to recover Mortimer."

He goes back to his thoughts on the dead creature

Had he not met Fenfarrin just a few days ago, he'd be at a loss, but he had.
"This was a Beast folk, like Fenfarrin, but a as a canine. Very well could be who started the fire. Fenferrin was very much knew to the self aware Wold in which we found him. Unfortunately this dark fey found this poor soul before we did.

"I know it's mot our strong suit Torry, but could you help me with this?"

Take 20 Search Perception DC 22
Knowledge Arcane DC 12; 15; 21

Spells
4-1st- Color Spray, Magic Weapon
0 - x;Detect Magic, Read Magic, Mage Hand, -Message

Gnome: 1/day Dancing Lights, x;Prestidigitation, Ghost Sound, Speak with Animals
Sorcerer Ray 7/ day 30' 1d6

Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 10/10
Monday November 8th, 2021 9:10:00 AM
Ash forces a hard cough to bring up any last bit of smoke in his lungs. He spits a wad away from everyone and thinks for a brief moment of his mother, and how she would yell at him for his disgusting habit.

He follows Mortimer.

Drack (Chris J) - hp 13/13 - AC 16
Monday November 8th, 2021 10:33:06 AM
As the fire finally goes out, and the smoke starts to dissipate, Drack looks to Mortimer and Mole in the room nearby, obviously having been in the heart of the fire fighting as well.

"Well done you two. I'm Drack. Nice to meet you, and glad to see that you were in here with me. Perhaps we should grab a drink at the tavern later."

Upon hearing the cry of surprise following the discovery of the dog creatures body, Drack takes a look and shrugs his shoulders. Don't really know anything about oddly dressed dogs with weaponry, he thinks to himself.

As Ezra and the town folk start moving back in to assess the damaged building, Drack heads outside to clean the soot and ash from himself as best he can, and then heads to the tavern for a drink.

Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.) - HP: 8/8. AC:13 d20=3 ;
Monday November 8th, 2021 2:21:22 PM
Mortimer greets Drack warmly. "Good thing you showed up when you did."

He looks back at Manolo, after Loryn's suggestion. "You're right, I'll take'em back to the boarding house. Poor guy had a rough go at it." He walks over to Manolo, but before he picks him up, he looks at his water bucket and then back to Manolo. How can he take both, the young rogue was a two-hander? He seems puzzled at first, then the spark of an idea hits him. With a commanding snap of his fingers and a few muttered words, he hands his bucket over to an unseen being ... and this invisible someone takes it! The bucket appears to be floating in the air. "Here ... you take my bucket and follow behind me."

Manolo only looks to be 130 to 150 pounds, so Mortimer scoops him up and throws him over his shoulder with the efficiency of an experienced gravedigger. This wasn't his first body to carry. He slowly starts to make his way back to the boarding house. His water bucket goes floating after him. "And don't spill my water," he commands. He then rejoins the others at the tavern after he puts Manolo to bed.

(Mortimer can carry up to 200 pounds. Manolo would be a heavy load, so his speed is reduced to 20ft.)

DM Steve -- I need a drink.
Monday November 8th, 2021 11:27:43 PM
Manolo is still unconscious.
Torrynashkabbeth is embarrassed by the attention, but Ezra and Feld are clearly sincere. She enjoys some fresh air and receives invitations to go to the tavern or stay and examine the creature.
Ash follows others to the tavern.
Mortimer cleans himself off a bit, and offers to join Mole at the tavern. After Loryn suggests it, he ends up taking Manolo to the boarding house.
Loryn goes to examine the creature that was found. He intends to learn what he can before anything happens to the scene.
Drack introduces himself to Mortimer and Mole. He also heads for the tavern.
Mole is ready for a drink after thirsty work.

As Mole and the rest start to leave, Ezra says, “Please, you should have a reward. Perhaps this ring, although I fear it no longer works.” He offers his ruby-studded ring.

Mortimer carries Manolo to the boarding house. Manolo still struggles to breath well, and Mortimer suspects he may have really been hurt and at a minimum needs rest.

Loryn examines the creature. It may have suffered from the smoke, but it was not burned. It looks more like it was in a fight. Perhaps someone with skill as a healer could tell more. His arcane knowledge does not identify the creature, and he does not detect magic on the creature. It is a tiny thing, much smaller than Fanfarran. Then again, there is more variation in the sizes of dogs.

Loryn notes that Ezra’s ring is magical.

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 9 AC:14 d20=3 ;
Tuesday November 9th, 2021 5:10:00 AM
Torryn wasn't really one for drinking. Yes, some water would be welcome, but there was now no shortage of that to be had. She quickly cupped her hands and drank form one of the pails before setting off to see what all the fuss was about: fuss regarding the strange creature found within the distillery. She easily found Loryn's distinctive figure. There really weren't that many gnomes around Bearclaw Keep. Stepping carefully through the debris, soot and water, she approached his side to peer at the fallen creature.

"Oh, poor thing looks to have been in a fight." She observed. Shen then squatted smoothly on her haunches so that she might get a better look. "Do you think it's carrying anything that might provide us with some clues?" She asked Loryn. Loryn seemed far cleverer than herself and was definitely less likely to act precipitously; so asking first seemed a good idea.

[OOC: Perception 5. Torryn can see lots of soot, water and burnt wood.]

Drack (Chris J) - hp 13/13 - AC 16
Tuesday November 9th, 2021 8:25:01 AM
Drack watches as Mortimer casts some sort of spell to have his bucket carried.

"Interesting", he thinks to himself. "A spellcaster. Might be a handy fellow to know. Seems silly to do that though, when he could have just asked me to carry it, since we are going to the same place."

Drack says nothing though, and heads to the tavern with the others that are going.

Upon Ezra stopping them, and offering up a ring, Drack looks at the man. He assumes Ezra was offering it to the others that had gotten there first, and Ezra obviously knew them, so he turns and heads off to the tavern, curious if these other folks would show up and share a drink.

Mole; (RichP) AC 18; HP 5/11; CMD 13
Tuesday November 9th, 2021 9:34:59 AM
Mole turns to Ezra at the mention of a reward. "Look here lad," he says as he does to most of the surface races who are much younger than him, "I find the drink you make enough of a reward for me.

Mole turns to Drack, "Thanks for the help. Don't think we could've gotten the fire out without yur help."

AC 13 HP 8/8 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K
Tuesday November 9th, 2021 12:30:18 PM
Loryn smiles and accepts the ring, "While not necessary, it is appreciated Ezra. The gnome slips the ring into his pocket as an eye brow arches a bit upon feeling the magic of the item. Not completely broken...hmmm

Loryn notes the others heading off for yet more drinking, "Do they do other things when awake?" he muses aloud to himself. with a shrug he is back to Torry and the poor dead dog creature

"Ah yes i see what you mean. Does seem to have gotten into a fight. With our dark fey perhaps?" Loryn glances at her upon the suggestion of searching the body and nods to himself. Loryn looks about and decides a light touch is best and casts Mage Hand

With the spell, he begins lifting anything about the body and moving it away from the area, debris, the sword, dagger and any item nearby. He will stack them in a spot just outside and lastly he will try and lift the tiny dog and bring it outside as well.
Once there, with the Prestidigitation spell still active, he will clean everything he can in the new pile, including the dog creature

Perception take 20 to search DC 22

Spells
4-1st- Color Spray, Magic Weapon
0 - x;Detect Magic, Read Magic, x;Mage Hand, -Message

Gnome: 1/day Dancing Lights, x;Prestidigitation, Ghost Sound, Speak with Animals
Sorcerer Ray 7/ day 30' 1d6

Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.) - HP: 8/8. AC:13
Tuesday November 9th, 2021 1:25:28 PM
Mortimer gently sets Manolo down on his bed. "You know ... you remind me of Pepin. Hey, that's right ... Pepin, that was his name! I had forgotten. He was in a fire too, but he didn't make it out alive."

After a moment of observation, Manolo seems to be having trouble breathing. This worries Mortimer. "Maybe this will help. I just learned this spell." He says a few simple words and he places his hand above Manolo's head. The soot begins to lift from his face. Mortimer hopes it would clean out his airways as well.

(Mortimer cast Prestidigitation on Manolo's head. Using the Clean ability. Area: 1 foot cube.)

If this doesn't improve his breathing, he asks Minerva to send someone for Noma Sparklescheme at the Chapel of Ward. She could definitely heal him.

Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 10/10
Tuesday November 9th, 2021 3:33:56 PM
Ash introduces himself to the newcomer.

Once back at the inn, Ashe grabs a drink, but nurses it while thinking about all the odd stuff going on in town. He barely gives a grunt if anyone speaks, just stares off and lets his mind race.

Manolo (Michael A) - HP 10/10 AC 17
Tuesday November 9th, 2021 7:08:23 PM
Manolo still unconscious.

DM Steve -- I find the drink you make enough of a reward for me. d20=18 ; d20=11 ;
Tuesday November 9th, 2021 10:25:24 PM
Mole gently turns down the ring that Ezra offers and heads to the tavern.
Manolo is still unconscious.
Torrynashkabbeth skipped the tavern to stay and help Loryn. She did not notice anything new, though.
Loryn accepts the ring from Ezra. He stays to investigate the body with Torryn.
Mortimer gets Manolo to his bed, cleans him up a bit, and asks Minerva for help.
Ash joins the others at the tavern, his mind racing.
Drack appraises these folk he worked beside, then heads to the tavern with the others. He figures Ezra’s offer of a ring was meant for the others.

At the tavern, people are able to drink, perhaps relax a bit, and bond over the shared experience. Others have also had the same idea -- the place is busier than it would normally be at this time. Talk among the others centers on who or what is to blame for the fire. The little dog-thing is one idea tossed around. It isn’t long before someone remembers that Agatha had an argument with Ezra several days ago, right before Ezra stopped production on his premium whiskey. Big Eddie makes it clear he doesn’t want to hear bad rumors about Miss Agatha, though, and that discussion moves away. Someone asks, though, why several of Ezra’s premium whiskey barrels were by the still if he’d stopped making it.

At the distillery, Loryn and Torryn carefully move and inspect the body and its gear. The creature is battered and scratched, and the tiny sword has blood on it. Its gear appears crude but serviceable, and is not magical. Even cleaned up, it is an ugly looking mongrel.

At the boarding house, Manolo breathes a bit easier after he is tended to. Minerva suggests letting him sleep the night before deciding on calling a healer.

In the morning, the group finds themselves all at the boarding house. Manolo is awake. (OOC: Manolo suffered more non-lethal damage that he had hit points, resulting in 4 points of normal damage. Now 3, after a night’s rest.) Drack spent the night in the common room, unsure now who invited him to stay. Minerva serves a simple but tasty breakfast. That day, the town is abuzz with more discussion about the fire. Folks are more convinced that the “bad times” have returned.

Drack (Chris J) - hp 13/13 - AC 16
Wednesday November 10th, 2021 8:31:48 AM
Drack converses with Ash and Mole, and introduces himself.

Upon waking in the common room, and hearing the first of the townsfolk arrive for breakfast, Drack learns that odd things have been happening here. He looks to see if either of the two people he met yesterday, Ash, Mortimer, or Mole, are present, and if so, wanders over to their table. If not he waits until they come in and then greets them.

"You guys mind if I sit with you? I don't really know many folks around here, and you seem like you might have an idea of what odd happenings are going on in this town."

"I'm Drack. Mostly been a bit of a wanderer for the last while, looking for things to do, and trying to make a little coin while I'm at it. How about you guys?"

Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 10/10
Wednesday November 10th, 2021 10:04:48 AM
Ash wakes early and heads down for some of the breakfast hr smells cooking. Once he finds a seat. He orders his food and drink. When Drack comes over, Ash motions to an empty seat.

"Well met Drack. Im Ash. Sorry i didn't be more gracious last night. My mind was elsewhere. I am a traveler, looking to unlock the powers inside my brain. Looking to harness magical energy. " On command he uses a spell to clean up his area of breakfast.

Mole; (RichP) AC 18; HP 5/11; CMD 13 d8+1=9 ;
Wednesday November 10th, 2021 10:23:28 AM
In the morning, Mole heads out of town for his morning prayer. After completing it, he heals the burns he suffered from the previous day. Afterwards, he heads back to the tavern for a morning meal. He sits with the others as it seems they've formed a loose group.

"Morning lad," he say to Drack. "Sorry, don't know much more than you. I've only been in the area for a few months."

Drack (Chris J) - hp 13/13 - AC 16
Wednesday November 10th, 2021 11:15:33 AM
Drack looks at Mole and Ash. “So, are guys some sort of group? Obviously Ash here is some sort of spell caster, and the guy I Met in the fire yesterday, Mortimer is as well. What about you Mole? And are there more in your group? I don’t do anything with magic, but I’m pretty good with a blade and a bow.”

Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.) - HP: 8/8. AC:13
Wednesday November 10th, 2021 11:50:27 AM
A drowsy Mortimer wakes up in the morning and does his usual preparations, as instructed. He had done his best at washing up before going to bed, but he still smelt like smoke. This irritates him. He casts prestidigitation on himself and tries to mask the scent with that of the smell of an expensive pipe tobacco; his favorite.

He knocks on Manolo's door and asks how he's doing. "Hey mate, you awake?" He suggests taking a trip to the Chapel of Ward, if he was up for it, and see the priestess, Noma Sparklescheme. "She'll will make you right as rain. Tell her Mortimer sent ya."

Mortimer makes his way down to the common room where everyone had already started breakfast. He brings his bucket, which is odd, until he explains himself. Mainly addressing the spellcasters of the group, he asks, "Is it true that magical auras tend to linger after magic been cast ... leave its mark, so to speak?" He plops the bucket down on the floor next to the table. "Well, this bucket, and the water it holds, came from inside Ezra's place where the fire was started. I thought we'd check it in private. No need letting the whole Hamlet know our business."

AC 13 HP 8/8 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K
Wednesday November 10th, 2021 1:21:41 PM
Loryn notes the details he is able to learn to share with the others in the morning and stands up. "Guess that's about all we can learn here." he says to Torry. He went down fighting at least. Loryn says a small prayer for the departed and not having much else but more questions than answers, decides to retire and heads back to Minerva's.

Unfortunately for Lorryn, his gnomish mind does not let hem get much sleep. What was that and where did it come form, how'd it get it when they had such a hard time of it, why was there and who or what did it get into a lethal confrontation with. Is any of this related or was his mind trying to draw connection where none existed. For something like the 10th time, Lorryn gets up and lights a candle to think

"Ugh. Morning already" he felt like he had just fallen asleep and maybe he had. Slowly the gnome slides out of bed and gets dressed. it would be a pretty long day, but not the first he's had. A few deep breaths and quick blasts of air through his lungs, he shrugs off sleep and the minor aches and and sets out the door in search of something light and sweet to eat.

All the usual suspects were present along with a new one. Loryn heads over with a smile and hops up to a chair.

"Morning all." he quickly turns to the new Human, "Loryn Glitterfall." waves the gnome. "Appreciate you jumping in like that last night.

"Not really how it works Mortimer, I'm afraid. spell auras and such dissipate relatively quickly unless the caster is pretty powerful. Even the mightiest spells only linger for about an hour. Anyway, i checked Ezra's place right after and couldn't see anything then either. The ring he gave us though, IS magical. Just haven't figured it out quite yet. I'll let you know when i do."

Torry and I checked out the dog thing. Tiny little creature but more oddly was that it looked to have been in combat, not killed by the fire and even had drawn some blood upon it's weapon. Torry and I moved it to a separate spot along with the crude possessions, you guys are welcome to check him out and see if you can learn more."

"So any chatter at the tavern last night, anyone happen to look like they had been stabbed by a tiny sword?"

Spells
4-1st- Color Spray, Magic Weapon
0 - x;Detect Magic, Read Magic, x;Mage Hand, -Message

Gnome: 1/day Dancing Lights, x;Prestidigitation, Ghost Sound, Speak with Animals
Sorcerer Ray 7/ day 30' 1d6

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 9 AC:14
Wednesday November 10th, 2021 5:42:33 PM
Upon her return to the lodging house Torryn availed herself of a bath. It took time, but she was happy enough of that. It kept her occupied. the simple routine allowed her mind to wander where it might. the only conclusion she came to was that someone was plainly intent on causing harm. that still pointed towards the Boggy - or whatever it was called.

She luxuriated in the bath for longer than she'd intended. So when it came to practicing the meditation routines that Agratha (not to be confused with Agatha!) had recommended, she really didn't manage very much. What she did achieve was a deep and untroubled sleep. that she attributed to the bath rather than her poor attempts at meditation.

In the morning she was unusually late to rise. She could the sounds of activity below. It all sounded so normal after the fevered activity of the night before. Smiling she slipped out of bed and purely out of habit, began her stretching regime. Being a dancer it was very important to stay supple. The judicious use of some of minor magic had her hair shining and snag free. She pulled it up at the sides and confined her long, blonde tresses there with two combs. Her simple, peasant-top was covered by a short tabard. She wore her favourite, over the knee boots and placed her dagger in the belt, at the small of her back.

"Good morning, everyone." She greeted the others cheerily. "I hope you've left something for me." Torryn was as radiant and cheerful as ever. Whatever anxieties beset the community hadn't transferred to her.

[OOC: Young ladies do not wander up to strange young men; so she'll politely wait to be introduced to Drack.]

Manolo (Michael A) - HP 10/10 AC 17
Wednesday November 10th, 2021 7:39:24 PM
Manolo thanks Mortimer for the idea as he is still not aware of what happened after he lost consciousness.
He proceeds to go towards the Chapel of Ward to get himself healed as he still felt a little bit beaten up as he occasionally coughs.

Death in the Orchard

DM Steve -- You guys mind if I sit with you?
Wednesday November 10th, 2021 10:14:16 PM
Mole prays out of town, then returns for breakfast. He admits he hasn’t been around here long.
Torrynashkabbeth bathes before sleeping, and joins breakfast late. She waits to be introduced to Drack.
Loryn has trouble sleeping, and joins the others for breakfast. He explains what he and Torryn learned about the body. He also tells Mortimer that magical residue doesn’t last long.
Drack introduces himself to some of the others at the tavern and to more of the group at breakfast.
Manolo goes to find a healer, since he’s still feeling effects of the smoke.
Ash welcomes Drack.
Mortimer cleans and checks on Manolo. At breakfast, he carries a bucket of water he brought from Ezra’s, thinking it might have some magical residue.

Loryn: Highlight to display spoiler: {He noticed strong conjuration and weak necromancy magic on it when he took the ring from Ezra. During the down time over the next days, Loryn is able to deduce that the ring summons something and that the necromancy is a separate spell that has been placed on it.}

Minerva makes her money boarding guests, and feeding townsfolk at times with the guests.

The day passes uneventfully, and the next. People are on edge, however, certain that the next bad thing will happen soon. And soon enough, it does. Ballo is found dead in the orchard of the Stanley Farm. Adam Stanley found the body. Word is, Ballo was mauled by some beast. Speculation about what the beast might have been ranges from a large cat to a troll.

Those of the party who have been here a while recall Ballo as a local widower, a bit of a clown during the contests at Grog’s birthday party and Minerva’s stout defender the night of the lizard attack in the boarding house. His farm was next to the Stanley farm.

Drack (Chris J) - hp 13/13 - AC 16
Thursday November 11th, 2021 8:41:30 AM
Drack greets Loryn, and then, Having no clue about social niceties, Drack stands up and introduces himself to the young lady who has just arrived, after she doesn't introduce herself. "I'm Drack, nice to meet you. I met some of these folks in the heart of the fire last night, and was just talking to them to learn a little more about you all."

Once she introduces herself, or someone else does, Drack will reiterate his previous question. "So are you all some sort of group? I've been wandering for a bit, selling my sword and strength for a meal, a place to stay, or a few coins. What do you all do?"

Drack (Chris J) - hp 13/13 - AC 16
Thursday November 11th, 2021 8:44:35 AM
(ooc: being as Drack isn't actually part of the group yet, and hasn't been invited to anything other than breakfast, I will stick with the group discussion at breakfast before moving two days ahead to a dead farmer)

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 9 AC:14
Thursday November 11th, 2021 9:11:14 AM
"Oh, Greetings Drack." Torryn extended her hand in what she'd been assured was a 'ladylike' manner'. Sadly she didn't know that ladies did not grip and shake as do men. Her smile was warm and genuine and lit up an already undeniably beautiful face. It was clear that she had a figure to match and wasn't shy about displaying it. Then again, she was a dancer and being a dancer accorded her certain privileges, at least in her mind.

"I'm Torrynashkabbeth Silvara. Please NEVER call me by my full name. Only my parents do that and then it always means I'm in trouble. So shorten it any way you like, but most call me Torryn or Torry." She was her customary, bubbly self. She'd been good and waited for the introduction. Now she could speak: something she generally wasn't shy in doing.

"So, you must be new to town. I'm not the most frequent visitor. Well, I wasn't until I moved in here; the lodgings I mean. Are you staying? Travelling on? Maybe you could help us catch a Boggy? The more eyes the better; particularly as we kind of lost the big guy."

[OOC: Sorry - forgot the Centaur's name.]

"Yes, now I think on it, I insist. You will stay and help us." Torryn beamed in satisfaction. Likely Agratha would have shaken her head in dismay for once again Torryn was being her typical impulsive self.

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 9 AC:14
Thursday November 11th, 2021 9:18:50 AM
[OOC: Now addressing the current timeline.]

Spear in hand, Torryn stood to her full, impressive height of a whole 5'6". It didn't seem very much to her. She momentarily pondered the merits of some fashionable boots: boots with heels. She dismissed such whimsical thoughts. Poor Ballo was dead; apparently by mauling.

"We should go take a look. You never know, we might find something that someone else missed." She spoke with as much conviction as she could muster. The presentation would undoubtedly have gone better had not the wind insisted on dragging her hair across her face. Torryn huffed in frustration. She was most definitely going to braid her hair before they went anywhere!

Drack (Chris J) - hp 13/13 - AC 16
Thursday November 11th, 2021 9:27:44 AM
“Nice to meet you Torry. I was just traveling on, but it definitely seems like something unpleasant is going on here. I’m staying at a farmhouse on the edge of town, but I can grab the remainder of my gear in short order.”

“What is a Boggy? Never heard of that before, but I would be glad to give you all a hand if this Boggy is causing problems.”

Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.) - HP: 8/8. AC:13 d20+1=10 ;
Thursday November 11th, 2021 10:29:00 AM
Mortimer shrugs when he hears Loryn's explanation of magical auras. "Oh well, at least I got a fully functional bucket out of it." The gnome's words confirm what he was already assuming. Mortimer was completely unable to see any auras himself. He was giving the bucket a magical inspection back up in his room before coming down.

Always casing the joint, the thief in Mortimer can't help but notice the magical glow of something burning a hole in Loryn's pocket. Something that wasn't there before.

(ooc: More coming later, addressing the tragic events of the past few days.)

Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.) - HP: 8/8. AC:13
Thursday November 11th, 2021 1:13:49 PM
(ooc: I mean the tragic events in the game ... death of Ballo.)

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 9 AC:14
Thursday November 11th, 2021 6:03:26 PM
"A Boggy is a dark Fey creature; one filled with mischief and malign intent. At least that's what I think it is. To be honest, we haven't actually seen it yet, just some of its handiwork - like the fire for instance. That was most likely its work, but like I said: we don't actually know or even have much in the way of proof. So all help is greatly appreciated. Oh and you should definitely move in here." She gestured to the boarding house. "The food is good and the rates are extremely reasonable, especially if you help out, which we all do."

Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 10/10
Thursday November 11th, 2021 6:11:13 PM
"Yes Drack. Come with us. More eyes to see what nonsense has come to this town."

When Torryn suggests heading to check the crime scene, Ash nods in agreement. He dons his daily clothes and meets with the others to head over and check where Ballo met his untimely end.

Drack (Chris J) - hp 13/13 - AC 16
Thursday November 11th, 2021 6:49:01 PM
“Sounds interesting. I don’t know anything about dark Fey, but I’ll look into this with you. I’m gonna go grab the rest of my gear and see you back here. I’ll be ready to head out when you guys are. And you all can just call me D. Most people I’ve met do, and I kind of like it.

D heads back to the farm house he was staying at, and thanks them profusely for their hospitality. He warns them about the death of Ballo, and the unpleasant events occurring in the area. D let’s them know that if anything odd is happening here, send word for him at the Boarding house right away, and as soon as he gets the word, he will return.

He then gathers his gear and returns to the Boarding house for the night.

Manolo (Michael A) - HP 10/10 AC 17 d20+6=25 ; d20+5=20 ;
Thursday November 11th, 2021 7:26:52 PM
Manolo gets healed (hopefully) and goes back to the area where the fire was.
He just had to have a look before trying to meet with the others and try to guess what tomorrow brings.

He tries to think with a different mindset and tries to guess how did everything end up like it did last night.
He walks around, trying to trace his steps and guess where would the thing or person responsible for the fire would act.

Local Knowledge 25
Perception 20

Mole; (RichP) AC 18; HP 5/11; CMD 13 d20+4=19 ; d20+8=14 ;
Thursday November 11th, 2021 7:58:01 PM
Mole looks at the group and begins to size each of them up. (Sense Motive DC 19, Perception DC 14) He's not hiding his glaring stare. From the others point of view, Mole appears to be trying to figure something out about each of the people sitting at their table. Every few moments, he takes a drink from his mug and beads of ale run down his beard with an occasional wipe of the ale with a dirty hand of the dwarf.

Anyone that takes any interest in what the dwarf is doing will elicite a response. "Just tryin' ta figure out what each of ya does. It seems clear that were gonna be working t'gether, at least for now, and I want to figure out what ya do." He says pausing to take another drink and bite of meat from his plate. "From what I can see, we one or two warriors, a bunch of mages, and me. I got that about right." He finishes.

Drack (Chris J) - hp 13/13 - AC 16
Thursday November 11th, 2021 9:04:34 PM
Drack looks at Mole. “I can save you some thoughts on me. I’m about as straightforward as it gets. I’m a fighter. Show me a bad guy that needs killing, and I’ve got my sword and bow to take care of the problem.”

Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.) - HP: 8/8. AC:13
Thursday November 11th, 2021 9:30:45 PM
In response to Mole's assertions, Mortimer replies with a sly smile, "Well ... isn't it obvious, I'm a priest. Give me your gold, and I'll give you my blessing." He then takes a sip of his morning ale.

----------------------------------

When they eventually decide to take a trip to the orchard, Mortimer will decide to gear completely up. Which will be a first. Everything that's happened so far has been during a birthday party and in the middle of the night.

DM Steve -- Yes, now I think on it, I insist. You will stay and help us.
Thursday November 11th, 2021 11:20:01 PM
Torrynashkabbeth responds to Drack’s inquiries. She talks about “catching a boggy.”
Ash agrees with Torryn that Drack should join in and help them.
Mole sizes up the group as a whole. He guesses one or two warriors and a bunch of mages (plus himself).
Manolo heals up and checks out the area where the fire was.
Drack introduces himself to Torryn. He asks what the group does. He does not understand what a boggy is, and hears that it is a dark fey creature. He explains that he is a fighter.
Mortimer wonders about the ring in Loryn’s pocket. He tells Mole he is a priest.
Loryn is quiet.

Manolo thinks the fire must’ve started near the still, where the remnants of empty barrels marked premium are.

Torrynashkabbeth suggests the group should look into Ballo’s death.
Ash prepares to check the area where Ballo was found.
Drack gathers his things and returns to the boarding house prior to the group setting out to investigate.
Mortimer prepares for potential trouble before they go look at the orchard where Ballo was found.

Interested parties may go to the orchard where Ballo was found after getting directions from Phaedra. He was on the Stanley farm, and Phaedra suggests they let Adam Stanley know before they go poking about his property, considering the mood right now. “He’d also be able to tell you just where to look. Oh, and Ballo’s body is in the keep at the moment. We needed someplace to put him while we sort things out.”

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 9 AC:14
Friday November 12th, 2021 6:00:50 AM
Looking at the body seemed a wise idea, but Torryn had already postulated the notion of visiting the crime scene. She'd rather do that than stare at a dead body. besides, she reasoned that Mole would have a far better idea about things like that AND had the stomach to cope with it in his usual unflappable manner.

Seeing Mole staring, she smiled back impishly. "I'm a dancer!" She told him proudly. It was true. She was. As she stood to clear her bowl and spoon she asked the others what their plans were.

"I propose to visit the Stanley farm and get a feel for actually happened, but I also thought that if someone checked the body - Ballo's body; saying "the" just sounds so impersonal. Well, it might be worth seeing if that yields any extra clues. What do you think?"

Drack (Chris J) - hp 13/13 - AC 16
Friday November 12th, 2021 8:26:05 AM
"sounds fine to me. I don't know much about beast wounds or dead bodies, so i'd prefer to check out the scene of his death, but we can do both. I'll follow your lead. You all seem to know a little more about what's been going on here then I do."

AC 13 HP 8/8 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K
Friday November 12th, 2021 9:14:11 AM
Loryn shoots a wink and a pair of finger guns at Mole with a grin when he finds the dwarf glare in his general direction. He sings his attention to the powerfully built human declaring himself a sell sword. "what if you helped out and did this stuff for, you know, the right thing and all. Probably some gold involved, the bad guys certainly won't be needing it it, but I hope." and here, Loryn pauses to get the entire group's attention at the table
"I hope we are not thinking of being mercenaries, looking for pay and promise before helping. Couple of us are in the Woldian League of Adventurers, not the Mailed Fist or League of mercs. Just so as we're clear on that I'm good."

Changing subjects, Loryn tells the group at large what he knows about the ring.
"Strong Conjuration magic. It summons something." With a mischevious look he adds in a sing song voice... "May be something bad, maybe something good, we don't know."

with a chuckle to himself he adds, "but it also has a minor Necromantic bend to it. I'm thinking a spell of some kind place later upon it. Like a Bloodwitch cuse or something. Maybe from our dark fey"

Upon hearing about Bollo, Loryn restates his thought on patrols in the evening and nighttime hours. Town has a citizen militia, this is a reason to employ it. the Gnome for one will volunteer to be on patrol at midnight for several hours. He'd appreciate some company.

On the actual body and or crime scene, Loryn will head to the farm. perhaps an animal caught sight of something

Spells
4-1st- Color Spray, Magic Weapon
0- Detect Magic, Read Magic, Mage Hand, Message

Gnome: 1/day Dancing Lights, Prestidigitation, Ghost Sound, Speak with Animals
Sorcerer Ray 7/ day 30' 1d6

Manolo (Michael A) - HP 10/10 AC 17 d20+5=23 ;
Friday November 12th, 2021 8:26:31 PM
Manolo checks the place a little bit longer, searching for any clues.

Perception 23

OOC: Where is Manolo after finishing checking the specific area ? with the group ?

Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.) - HP: 8/8. AC:13
Friday November 12th, 2021 8:54:19 PM
After hearing Loryn's description of the ring, Mortimer takes a step back, "Whoa! Why would Ezra have a such a ring? In the Nightmare District of Plateau City, many knucklers and grifties would often get cursed by the local witchery. It's not something you pass around; curses tend to stick to ya! If it is cursed, he never wore the bloody thing."

He starts to think. Is he seeing a connection?

Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 10/10 d20+1=13 ;
Saturday November 13th, 2021 12:53:26 AM
Ash heads back to his room, and proceeds to a little cage he keeps hidden. Knowing how an inn would react to the introduction of rodents to their establishment, he has kept his familiar hidden.

Once back with the group, he pulls out the alabaster white rat and plops him on his shoulder. "Stay Oslo".

He heads with the ones who go to the orchard and searches around where the body was found.

Perception 13

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 9 AC:14
Saturday November 13th, 2021 11:29:32 AM
"I'll certainly help patrol." Torryn offered. She'd almost caught a mysterious charcater fleeing the boarding house. Perhaps she'd actually catch him, or her, this time.

As to the money; the thought had never crossed her mind. Whilst she felt no inclination to join the League, this was her home and she was protecting everyone that she'd grown up with - no matter how loosely. But, first and foremost she considered herself a dancer. getting paid for something else was, to her mind, compromising her art.

When it came time to visit the farm, she was very grateful of Loryn's company. The gnome was blessed with an impressive intellect. If anyone could find a clue, she felt sure that it would be Loryn. Looking to her other side she saw a very different figure; Drack, or D as he liked to be called - but would at some time no doubt become Dracky -was an imposing figure. It was hard to believe that like her he was actually of Elven blood. She attributed the massive differences to her Fey bloodline. Hopefully, he wouldn't need all those weapons. All she had with her was her trusty spear - that she used more as a walking stick and a dagger sheafed in the belt, at the small of her back.

DM Steve -- I propose to visit the Stanley farm and get a feel for actually happened
Saturday November 13th, 2021 12:17:37 PM
Drack prefers to check out the scene, lacking experience with bodies and beast wounds.
Mortimer is alarmed by Loryn’s description of the ring. He didn’t think a cursed item could be passed around.
Loryn notes that he is not a mercenary. He tells the others what he found out about the ring, and suggests the town needs nightly patrols. As for investigating, he prefers the scene..
Ash collects his familiar before heading to the orchard with the others.
Torrynashkabbeth would rather look at the crime scene than a dead body. She thinks someone else should look at the body.
Manolo checks out the fire at Ezra’s a bit more, making sure there is no more to see there, then joins the group.
Mole is quiet.

The majority of the group favors investigating the orchard, and no one is particularly interested in the body. They head to the Stanley farm.

Heeding Phaedra’s advice, they let Adam Stanley know they are there to look at the scene. He directs them to a corner of the orchard not far from the road. ”Pardon me for not showin’ ya myself, but there’s work to be done. Not that I want to see it again, anyways. Me’n the dogs chased off what attacked him, but warn’t in time t’ save him. Before he died, he said the foul beast had trapped him. Didn’t say whut it was.”

At the scene of the attack, which is still torn up and stained, the group finds a crossbow on the ground and some feet away a broken and bloodied crossbow bolt. There is also a loop of rope on the ground, the end cut. Looking around, Mortimer notices a young tree with a matching bit of rope in it, way up high.

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 9 AC:14
Saturday November 13th, 2021 1:17:38 PM
"Hmm." Said Torryn in what she hoped was a suitably thoughtful manner. She really had no idea what had transpired. Had the "thing" used the rope to ensnare Bollo. Had Bollo struck it true with that crossbow bolt? had the creature used the bow? The latter didn't seem likely. Surely it would have taken it. But the rope indicated it was no wild animal. Were trolls that smart? She had no idea. All in all,'hmm' summed up her position rather neatly. Torryn remained otherwise quiet hoping that someone with more brains than her would offer some cunning insight into the situation. Ash, Morty and Loryn in particular received quizzical looks.

Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.) - HP: 8/8. AC:13 d20+1=8 ; d20+1=14 ;
Sunday November 14th, 2021 6:55:42 PM
(Perception: 8)

Mortimer looks at everything carefully and notices a few things. "Ballo was mauled ta death, they say. So it's safe to say, the killer was on the receiving end of that bolt." He picks up the business end of the broken crossbow bolt and stares at the blood up close; gives it a sniff (Perception: 14). He wonders if it is a strange color and odor that would be unfamiliar.

"The other end of that rope is up in that tree. A bit of fancy ropework for a beast." The thief in him has to chime in as well, "Of course, that could have been set by the Stanleys, to catch poachers. If not, then why was it set for Ballo?"

Mortimer looks off in the distance at Ballo's farm. "Take a look at Ballo's place, we should!" Maybe swipe a few trinkets along the way ... Ballo, a widower, isn't going to miss them. At least that's what the old Mortimer would think.

Mole; (RichP) AC 18; HP 5/11; CMD 13 d20+8=12 ; d20+10=20 ;
Sunday November 14th, 2021 10:08:56 PM
Mole is confused by what's going on, but follows anyway- he doesn't have anything better at the moment.

Mostly he just watches the surroundings and the area for any signs that seems out of the ordinary.

Perception Dc12, Survival DC 20

Drack (Chris J) - hp 13/13 - AC 16 d20+5=24 ;
Monday November 15th, 2021 8:33:21 AM
D looks at the odd scene, trying to make sense of what happened. "Was it a snare? was someone trying to hang someone else? Too many possibilities to come up with something reasonable."

"Is anyone good at tracking? perhaps the footprints and tracks in the area could help tell the story. Specifically around the tree that someone or something had to be at to get a noose up there. I'v etracked a little, and if nobody is better at it, I'll give a look and see if I can find a clue. If someone is better at it, I can help them."

If no one claims the ability to track, D will try and track the footprints to see if he can learn anything about who or what was where, and did what to who.(survival check 24. roll was a 19) If someone claims to be a good tracker, D will aid him or her.

AC 13 HP 8/8 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K
Monday November 15th, 2021 8:47:34 AM
Loryn looks at the rope where Adam Stanley shows the group of Ballo's final fate. The gnome perks an eyebrow at the mention of Stanley's dogs. After a search and ponder here, he would want to talk to them. See if he could match up a description from the other attack
"What would Ballo have been doing out here at night you think?" he asks aloud
"But more to the point, this was no animal attack, unless i'm a muddled dw...um, unless i'm mistaken, that appears to be a game tree snare that Ballo stepped in. You know tie a rope to a tree with a loop upon the ground type of snare. I see we fan out a bit and search for clues. See if anything fell out of a pocket and bag or something."

Search the area Perception 22 take 20

After, Loryn will ask Stanley if he can see the dogs and cast Speak with Animals and ask them to describe the sounds sight and smell of the creature they chased off.

Spells
4-1st- Color Spray, Magic Weapon
0- Detect Magic, Read Magic, Mage Hand, Message

Gnome: 1/day Dancing Lights, Prestidigitation, Ghost Sound, x-Speak with Animals
Sorcerer Ray 7/ day 30' 1d6

Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.) - HP: 8/8. AC:13
Monday November 15th, 2021 8:52:34 PM
Putting aside thoughts of robbing Ballo's farm of every board, nail and shingle, Mortimer tries to seriously connect all the dots in this seemingly random mystery. And here his mind goes...

1.Hams are stolen from Ballo's farm.
2. Whiskey is stolen from Ezra.
3. Sword stolen from Grog.
4. The town guard is completely useless. Their members go awol on a regular basis.
5. Minerva is attacked twice: jelly water attack and the Lizard party.
6. Ballo and Minerva are having hugs and cuddles.
7. Same jelly water found at the Distillery fire.
8, Three different maulings: Goat, tiny Dog Boy, and now Ballo.
9. The town suspects Agatha. Agatha had an argument Ezra about the youth drinking his whiskey.
10. Agatha suspects a type of gremlin called a Nuglub.
11. Minerva, Ash and Ballo were snared in rope traps.

After reviewing these facts, it was clear that the rope traps used on Minerva and Ash were magical in nature. Maybe there still some aura on this rope trap here in the orchard. He casts Detect Magic and concentrates on the crime scene, mainly the rope, crossbow bolt and the blood upon it. He knows Loryn explained to him about lingering auras, but who knows ... a miracle could happen.

"Any reason why was Ballo was out here in the Stanley Orchard with a crossbow? Was he hunting the Nuglub out of revenge for attacking Minerva? He certainly couldn't rely on the town guard!"

Manolo (Michael A) - HP 10/10 AC 17 d20+5=24 ;
Monday November 15th, 2021 10:47:05 PM
"Things are getting stranger", Manolo says.

He takes a look at the the tree and the rope but nothing else.

Perception 24

DM Steve -- Things are getting stranger
Monday November 15th, 2021 11:01:29 PM
Loryn wonders why Ballo was here. He suggests that Ballo stepped into a snare and suggests they search the area. He plans to talk to Stanley’s dogs when he can.
Torrynashkabbeth has no idea what transpired, and tries to appear thoughtful.
Drack tries to make sense of the scene.
Mole watches the surroundings while the others investigate.
Mortimer notices a number of things. He surmises the crossbow bolt hit Ballo’s killer. He wonders about the rope. He wonders about taking a look at Ballo’s place. He also tries to detect any residual magic on the rope or in the area. He suggests Ballo might have been hunting the nuglub.
Manolo looks at the tree and rope.
Ash is quiet.

Drack notices some tracks, smaller than a man’s, and lots of dogs running through the area. He loses the small tracks. The search turns up a knife, which Manolo finds on the ground under the tree where the rope hangs. Mortimer does not detect any magic.

From the dogs, Loryn learns that the creature they chased ran on two legs. It was shaggy and had an unpleasant scent about it. They have smelled it before. It always runs away.

Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 10/10 d20+1=7 ;
Monday November 15th, 2021 11:14:19 PM
Ash meanders around the crime scene. His eyes scan around but nothing sticks out to him.
He reaches up and presses on his bent nose, something he did when trying to concentrate.

"This has all been so chaotic.. everything since we arrived in this town. "

Mole; (RichP) AC 18; HP 5/11; CMD 13 d20+10=23 ;
Tuesday November 16th, 2021 7:23:30 AM
Mole extends the search to further out in an attempt to locate some more information.

Survival DC 23 to locate tracks or other signs.

Drack (Chris J) - hp 13/13 - AC 16 d20+5=7 ;
Tuesday November 16th, 2021 8:55:44 AM
Drack shares what he has found about the tracks, and then will try to aid Mole in his search, but fails to be of help.

"Unless we come up with something useful, I'm thinking the only way to hunt a woodland creature is to be out in the woodlands. Sleeping in town isn't going to help us find it if it lives in the woods. Just a thought."

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 9 AC:14
Tuesday November 16th, 2021 10:49:57 AM
"There's a lot of woods." Torryn observed. "I tried to lure it out before, but with no success. It seems to know its victims. As to what we've found here, I really have nothing useful to add. Perhaps if I saw Ballo's body I might piece a few elements together. I say 'might'. I make no promises. Solving mysteries is clearly not my thing." She wasn't very keen to go and inspect a dead body. It wasn't something that dancers generally did, but she really didn't feel that she was contributing much to the team; so would have endure a little unpleasantness in order to try to pull her weight.

AC 13 HP 8/8 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K
Tuesday November 16th, 2021 4:58:43 PM
Loryn relates what the dogs have told him which is not too much. He asks them if they would like to lead him and his friends to find the unpleasant smelling shaggy creature on two legs. His other follow up question is to get a size comparrison of the creature. Big as himself, big as farmer Stanley, Torry? He also asks the dogs to take them to some of the other places they have seen and or smelled the creature. Has it come through often?

Loryn agrees with Torry to an extent and with Drak as well, "There is a lot of woods all right. I think at this point it is worth another try with all of us out and about. Pair off in teams to cover ground"

The last part is assuming the dogs don't want to try and track the creature by scent

"I say everyone should have their gear ready for heading out after dinner. Sleeping at Minerva's and trying to react has lost of a building and now a life"

Spells
4-1st- Color Spray, Magic Weapon
0- Detect Magic, Read Magic, Mage Hand, Message

Gnome: 1/day Dancing Lights, Prestidigitation, Ghost Sound, x-Speak with Animals
Sorcerer Ray 7/ day 30' 1d6

Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.) - HP: 8/8. AC:13 d20+1=9 ;
Tuesday November 16th, 2021 8:45:45 PM
Still holding the broken crossbow bolt, Mortimer poses a few questions to the more magically learned members of the group (Ash and/or Loryn), "Isn't there some kinda magic that could use this blood to identify or locate the sod it came from?"

He considers other options that may bare fruit, much like this orchard they stand in. "We should probably talk to Big Eddie, Ballo's farmhand. He may know why Ballo was stalkin' around his neighbor's orchard."

Mortimer considers what he knows about the locals. For example, if Agatha is a witch and she may possess any special knowledge about divination magic. She definitely knew quite a bit about Nuglub Gremlins ... at least that's what Loryn suggested. If not Agatha, is there a place in Windhorn that might have information about dark fey .. like a library run for WLA, which he was now a member.
(Knowledge [Local]: 9)

If Mortimer was anything, he was inquisitive, a good thief had to be well informed. "What if there is more than one? More than one gremlin, I mean. This one was described as shaggy with claws. Another description we've heard portrayed a walking bat on two legs. And that dead dog-faced git in the street ... it could be a gremlin too. It was the size of one anyways!"

In conclusion, he mentions an even more chilling prospect, "They could be watching us right now. Dividen up into different groups is a bad idea. We have more to go on than just wanderin' around in an orchard. We need ta stay together and not end up like Ballo. There's strength in a gang."

Mortimer also makes a mental note ... when back in town, go ask Ezra what that bloody ring does!

Manolo (Michael A) - HP 10/10 AC 17 d20=14 ;
Tuesday November 16th, 2021 10:48:20 PM
Manolo help Mole with the search as well.

Aid another 14

DM Steve -- What if there is more than one?
Tuesday November 16th, 2021 10:52:40 PM
Mortimer asks whether there is magic that can find this thing. He also suggests they talk to Big Eddie. He wonders if there might be more than one gremlin, and whether they are being watched right now.
Loryn asks the dogs if they would like to go find the creature, and other questions. He suggests pairing off to search for it, and agrees that staying at Minerva’s has not helped them find it so far.
Torrynashkabbeth talks about trying to lure the creature out. She suggests looking at Ballo’s body.
Manolo helps search
Mole searches a larger area, looking for more.
Drack suggests they might have to try being out in the woods to catch a woodland creature.
Ash tries to concentrate, but nothing makes sense to him.

The dogs do not want to go anywhere; they will stay and protect the farm. But they do clarify that the creature is only a little smaller than Loryn is. It used to come around every so often, but hasn’t much lately. They chase it when it does.

Searching a larger area tells Mole and Drack that the creature headed northwest -- not that they can find the creature’s tracks, but that the dogs tore through that way. And Stanley has maybe a dozen dogs.

Mortimer remembers that there is no local WLA chapterhouse -- a visiting member had to swear them in. But there is Grog. Grog was a member of the WLA and eager to see others join. He’s also got an interest in seeing events work out all right.

OOC: If the party really does intend to split up, I’ll need more details. . . like who goes with who, and where.

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 9 AC:14
Wednesday November 17th, 2021 6:11:01 AM
"That's a good idea, Morty." Torryn stated with admiration. She was glad to be in the company of such clever people. She hadn't considered that there might be two or more of the Nuggies, Boggies or whatever they were called.

"Also, I agree with Loryn. I believe that in pairs, or threes, we are strong enough to handle a Nuggy if we encounter one. The one here ran from dogs; so it's not like it's troll-strong or anything. I mean, a troll wouldn't run from dogs. It would eat them." She stopped speaking. she was starting to ramble. That wouldn't help at all; not that she'd done a great deal in that regard thus far. She pursed her lips in thought as she considered what else she might usefully do. Nothing presented, so with a sigh she announced that she'd head back to town and check out poor Ballo's body to see how the clues at the scene aligned with his injuries. At least she was doing something, albeit she really didn't expect to glean anything thjat would lead to the apprehension of the killer. Another pair of eyes and more importantly, a keener mind, would be most welcome, but she simply turned and headed back still trying to think of something new to assist in their search.

Drack (Chris J) - hp 13/13 - AC 16
Wednesday November 17th, 2021 8:21:54 AM
Drack wasn't quite sure what to do. Seems like nobody knew much about what they were after. He preferred seeing his opponent, and dealing with him face to face. This creatures hit and run tactics left a sour taste in Dracks mouth.

As the warrior watches Torry walk off, he looks toward the rest of the group, and then turns to go with her. He thinks to himself, "Hopefully she is more than just a dancer, but either way, the little lass probably shouldn't go wandering off by herself".

AC 13 HP 8/8 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K d20+2=20 ;
Wednesday November 17th, 2021 9:32:46 AM
Loryn nods at Mortimer as he listens, "Hey normally i would completely agree, but the fact is, we need to cover and be covering more ground. More dangerous? Sure it is, but things," the gnome gestures to the bloody scene and rope pieces, "have escalated. If anyone wants out, now's the time to pack up and move on to find a nice comfortable farm to raise chickens or what have you."

"Nothing more I can think of out here. It went to the Northwest, Mole. You up for just heading out that way for a a wander and see if we can pick up the trail again?"

"The rest of you can come along or go with Torry and the big guy and we'll all meet up for dinner at Miinerva's"

Aid Another to Mole for rediscovering tracks - 20

Spells
4-1st- Color Spray, Magic Weapon
0- Detect Magic, Read Magic, Mage Hand, Message

Gnome: 1/day Dancing Lights, Prestidigitation, Ghost Sound, x-Speak with Animals
Sorcerer Ray 7/ day 30' 1d6

Mole; (RichP) AC 18; HP 5/11; CMD 13 d20+8=21 ; d20+10=11 ;
Wednesday November 17th, 2021 1:17:47 PM
"Yeah, I'll head out that way." He says to Loryn.

Mole heads out in the direction suggested by the gnome. He looks for anything out of the ordinary.

Perception DC21, Survival DC11

Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 10/10 d20+1=17 ;
Wednesday November 17th, 2021 1:45:43 PM
Ash shrugs his shoulders and puts Oslo in his cloak. He looks both ways and follows Torryn and Drack.

Hes not the most observant fellow, usually having his nose in a book... but sometimes he was reliable.

Perception 17

Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.) - HP: 8/8. AC:13 d20+1=2 ;
Wednesday November 17th, 2021 8:21:38 PM
Mortimer chuckles at Loryn's cheeky, chicken farmer bit of manipulative word play. He admires his devious manner of influence. "Well, I'm cautious because I've had my fair share of beat downs ... I know my limits. I've learned to trust my instincts, they've kept me alive thus far."

"Keep the search parties to two. No one goes off on their own." He looks at how they are forming up. "From what I can tell, Mole is the only one with the healing touch. Give the other group one of those cure potions. Fortunately, Ballo wounded the Nuglub. So I doubt that bloody gremlin would scuffle with a group so soon."

Looking back at Torryn on her way back to town, he adds, "I'll walk back with ya. I'm sure you're aces with that spear, but so was Ballo with a crossbow. No one should be walking alone!" As he joins Torryn on the way back, he announces to the rest, "See ya at dinner ... have some stories. We'll do the same."

When they get back to the Windhorn, Mortimer will go to the Keep, where the bodies are being kept. He will give them a good inspection ... maybe even have a nice conversation or two. If Grog happens to be stomping around, he could certainly poke his brain as well. However until, he keeps his eyes peeled for dangers along the way. At least he thinks he does.

(Perception: 2)

Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.) - HP: 8/8. AC:13
Wednesday November 17th, 2021 8:31:55 PM
(OOC: Sorry, I didn't read Drack's post carefully. I wasn't aware he was walking back with Torryn. And if Ash is doing the same, then Mortimer will stay with Loryn and Mole to help out the search in the orchard. There should at least be three in their group.)

DM Steve -- We'll all meet up for dinner at Minerva's 2d6=8 ;
Wednesday November 17th, 2021 10:57:46 PM
Mortimer listens to the others and thinks they should have only two groups and each group should have some healing ability. He starts to head back to town to look at the body, then rethinks -- it might be better to make sure a third person goes with Loryn and Mole.
Torrynashkabbeth agrees with something Loryn said earlier, and suggests they split up to look, two or three to a group. She decides to head back to town to look at Ballo’s body.
Ash follows Torryn and Drack.
Loryn reasons that they need to cover more ground, even if it is more dangerous. He offers to head northwest with Mole to see if they can find the creature’s trail.
Drack didn’t like the tactics of this creature. He goes with Torryn, in case she needs protection.
Mole heads off with Loryn, looking for anything out of the ordinary..
Manolo is quiet. At the last moment he joins the group headed to town.

While their group is headed back to town, Torryn, Drack, Ash, and Manolo are ambushed. Ash notices something odd, and gives a shout. As he does, a number of falling rocks and logs come down a hillside at them

Ash is not caught in the slide. Torryn, Drack, and Manolo may make a DC 14 perception roll to react to Ash’es warning and avoid the slide. Anyone who does not avoid the slide takes 8 points of damage (half with a DC 14 reflex save).

-----

While their group explores to the northwest, Loryn, Mole, and Mortimer are approached by a cat, visibly upset and acting peculiar. When it sees that they have seen it, it runs. Then it stops and looks back. It repeats a pattern of running up to the characters, then heading away, turning back and looking at them, repeatedly.

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 9 AC:14 d20=1 ; d20=13 ; d20=18 ; d20=8 ;
Thursday November 18th, 2021 5:24:42 AM
Torryn wandered back to town lost in thought. How was it possible to catch such an elusive quarry. Perhaps they could set a trap? It would have to be a good one though as the Nuggy was patently both devious and clever. Her reverie was cruelly disturbed by Ash's warning shout. It came just a moment too late for her. Rocks and logs tumbled down the hill side with alarming speed! There seemed so many. Torryn had time only to take in a deep breath before she leapt. relying on her dancer's grace and timing, she managed to avoid the largest of the debris, but did roll into a small rock that stung her back mightily. Her roll though was sufficiently adept that she was swiftly back to her feet and looking angrily up the hill. Nothing was immediately apparent.

[OOC:
Roll 1: Perception - Natural 1! Was looking at her feet.
Roll 2: Reflex save: 13+4= Success! (Half Damage)
Roll 3: Acrobatics: 18+4=An impressive bit of tumbling!
Roll 4: Perception: 8+2=Not much chance of spotting much.]

Drack (Chris J) - hp 13/13 - AC 16 d20+7=17 ;
Thursday November 18th, 2021 8:47:48 AM
Drack hears the warning, and his combat instincts take over, allowing him to move out of the way of the approaching avalanche.(perception 17)

Knowing that their foe was likely at the top of the hill after just starting the landslide, Drack takes a double move up the hill to confront their attacker.

Manolo (Michael A) - HP 10/10 AC 17 d20+5=19 ;
Thursday November 18th, 2021 10:02:45 AM
Manolo hears Ash's warning just in time to avoid a big rock that would smash his head.

"Seems we have company", He shouts.
He readies his dagger.

Perception 19

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 9 AC:14
Thursday November 18th, 2021 11:35:44 AM
"Ow." Is all that Torryn says in response. She does however, look to follow Drack if he hares off up the hill. Running uphill would not be a swift process, even with her unencumbered agility. Were she the Nuggy-Boggy-thing, she'd leg it! She'd much rather just get a glimpse of it. Just a glimpse was all she needed and she'd unleash her Fey-Spark.

AC 13 HP 8/8 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K d20+2=17 ;
Thursday November 18th, 2021 2:07:49 PM
"Curiouser and curiouser" Loryn says as the cat reappears. "Very well little friend" He says to the cat with a gesture in the direction the cat seems to want them to follow it, "Lead on."

The gnome glances over at the dwarf and simply shrugs his shoulders. "We are looking for leads, for ill or no, we have one and as I don't want to raise chickens, shall we?"

Loryn follows the cat
Perception 17

Spells
4-1st- Color Spray, Magic Weapon
0- Detect Magic, Read Magic, Mage Hand, Message

Gnome: 1/day Dancing Lights, Prestidigitation, Ghost Sound, x-Speak with Animals
Sorcerer Ray 7/ day 30' 1d6

Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 10/10 d20+1=9 ;
Thursday November 18th, 2021 7:47:10 PM
Ash yells out the warning and immediately starts scanning the hill for anything. (Perception 9)

He follows the others up, getting ready one of his spells if need be.

Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.) - HP: 8/8. AC:13 d20+1=12 ;
Thursday November 18th, 2021 9:27:14 PM
"Absobloodylootely," he replies in agreeance with Loryn. He too follows the cat. As they make their way, Mortimer declares, "I bet the others are having a boring afternoon!"

(Perception: 12)

DM Steve -- Curiouser and curiouser
Thursday November 18th, 2021 11:19:25 PM
Torrynashkabbeth is deep in thought as they walk, and gets caught by the slide. Although hurt, she isn’t slowed down. She is annoyed not to see what caused the slide.
Drack avoids the rocks and heads up the hill without waiting to see what he’s headed into.
Ash scans the hillside and follows Drack.
Manolo avoids being hurt, thanks to the warning. He looks to see what’s above them on the hillside.

Manolo Highlight to display spoiler: { Manolo notices a tiny furry creature in the underbrush. It is up on two legs, but is hunched over and looks like it should walk on all fours. There’s a quick impression of a spiky back and oversized eyes and teeth, when suddenly it’s gone, hidden in the brush. From the movement of the brush, there must be three or four of them. }

Drack and Ash, hastening up the hill, don’t see anything but have the impression that they are not alone. There is a rustling in the brush that could be caused by the wind.

-----
Mortimer agrees to follow the cat.
Loryn decides the cat is trying to lead them, and follows.
Mole is quiet.

Once it sees they are following it, the cat heads off without doubling back. It leads the trio through paths they would not normally take, but chooses routes that they can navigate. Before long it seems likely the cat is headed back towards town, without regard to property lines or roads. It goes as fast as the three continue to keep up.

Mole; (RichP) AC 18; HP 5/11; CMD 13 d20+10=28 ; d20+8=16 ;
Thursday November 18th, 2021 11:50:55 PM
Mole looks back at the gnome. "Don't understand the chickens." Mole follows the cat with the others.

Perception DC 16, Survival DC28

Spells Prepared
0- Create Water, Flare, Stabilize
1- Cure Light Wounds, Speak w/ Animals

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 9 AC:14 d20=10 ;
Friday November 19th, 2021 5:51:12 AM
There seemed little point in staying where she was. Torryn took a deep breath and grimaced slightly as it pulled on her aching back. It was , however, not enough to stop her from heading up the hill to join Drack. Once there she carefully surveyed the scene with the aid of her Fey Sight.

[OOC: Perception: 12. Also invoking Detect Magic]

Something had intended that serious harm befall her and her group. It seemed only fair that she return the favour. Whether it was with spear or Fey Spark, Torryn was ready to strike.

Drack (Chris J) - hp 13/13 - AC 16 d20+7=27 ;
Friday November 19th, 2021 8:19:27 AM
Drack moves toward the brush, scanning the area around him, and then focusing on the brush(perception 27, nat 20). Walking into another trap is something he would prefer to avoid.

AC 13 HP 8/8 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K d20+2=4 ;
Friday November 19th, 2021 9:48:46 AM
Loryn nods agreement to Mortimer and gives Mole a quizical look. "Chickens are small feathery birds that go with nearly any meal. Not much to understand about them, they're not really the brightest of birds." Loryn finishes with a smile and continues follwoing the cat.

"Looks like we are heading back into town." The gnome was certainly hoping for more than a guide back to town and makes a mental note that if this is all the cat was doing, he would try to stop it from getting away.
"Let's see if our feline guide has a specific house in mind eh?"

perception 4

Spells
4-1st- Color Spray, Magic Weapon
0- Detect Magic, Read Magic, Mage Hand, Message

Gnome: 1/day Dancing Lights, Prestidigitation, Ghost Sound, x-Speak with Animals
Sorcerer Ray 7/ day 30' 1d6

Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 10/10
Friday November 19th, 2021 10:58:32 AM
Ash pulls out a little candle and bag. " Excessesia importiana..." he begins as his hand traces a line in the sky.

Summon monster 1.

When the animal arrives he tells it to head into the bush and relay what it sees.

Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.) - HP: 8/8. AC:13 d20+1=7 ;
Friday November 19th, 2021 9:00:30 PM
"Excellent ... now I'm hungry for chicken. In a pot. Throw in some tubers, turnips and carrots. A dash of salt. You have a right fine, hearty meal."

After following the cat a bit further, Mortimer notes, "That moggy is leadin' us back to town; it is!"

(Perception: 7)

Manolo (Michael A) - HP 10/10 AC 17 d20+1=9 ;
Friday November 19th, 2021 9:52:37 PM
Manolo tries to hide the fact that he spotted the little critters.
"I don't know if they noticed, but I spotted them.
"There are about three or fours of them" he says.
He tells Ash, Drack and Torry about the location of the critters while trying not make an obvious gestures.

Bluff 9 (in case of sense motive against the little trouble makers )

DM Steve -- Don't understand the chickens. d20+10=18 ;
Friday November 19th, 2021 11:18:46 PM
Mortimer thinks about food, and realizes they are headed back to town.
Mole doesn’t understand what Loryn means, but follows with the others.
Loryn explains about chickens, and notes that the cat seems to be leading them back to town.

As the three approach town, they see a couple of people headed that way with their arms full of sticks and limbs. At the edge of town, they find a crowd. The crowd has captured Agatha -- she is gagged and tied. Big Eddie is lying on the ground, not bloodied but unmoving, and a number of the crowd sport bruises. Those bringing the sticks dump them onto a pile, while other men have a wagonload of firewood they are stacking on the limbs. A man the trio has seen but not met is talking with Ezra, who holds a torch but does not look like he really wants to be there..

The three are still some distance from the center of activity, but close enough to the crowd of onlookers when the cat dives into a bush.

-----

Ash summons a monster.
Manolo tells the others there are three or four creatures up there, but tries not to let the creatures know he saw them.
Drack moves toward the brush, looking carefully. He is worried about another trap.
Torrynashkabbeth looks for something to attack, including detecting magic.

Ash Highlight to display spoiler: {The summon monster spells allow the caster to determine which creature is summoned. The creature summoned will fight the caster’s foes unless the caster has some other means to communicate with it to ask for other favors. This time around I will assume Ash summoned an eagle (which has a +10 perception bonus).}

Drack Highlight to display spoiler: { Drack clearly sees one lean little bat-eared horror with a mouth full of needle-like teeth and glowing, orange eyes. It’s about two feet tall, hunched over like it could run on all fours, carrying a short sword. In other places, the brush moves in reaction to something. He guesses there are four of these things up there, retreating cautiously. }

An eagle appears in response to Ash’es spell. It flies above the brush, looking, but does not attack.

Manolo has lost sight of what he saw earlier, but can tell by the movement of the brush that things are still up there in the area he indicated to the others. No, there one is again! They’re slowly moving away. Torryn uses her fey sight, but still does not see anything unusual. Ash does not see them either.

Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.) - HP: 8/8. AC:13 d20+8=19 ;
Saturday November 20th, 2021 3:15:35 PM
Mortimer isn't all that shocked at what he's seeing. Fear and hate always brings out the worst in what were once reasonable people. Now all reason has apparently been cast aside.

"Mole," he requests in a low tone, "If you could get Big Eddie up, it would be good to have an extra ally. Big Eddie has equally big affections for Agatha... and it looks he's already left his marks on half the mob."

Mortimer then speaks a few words of power and something unseen suddenly comes into being.

(Mortimer casts Unseen Servant. Range: 25'. Duration: 1 hour. )

"Let's see if we can calm these lager louts, or at least stall for time."

He makes sure his WLA badge is in full view, then commands his unseen companion to follow him. Mortimer approaches the mob briskly with the full force and fervor of his commanding presence.

(Intimidate: 19)

"OYE!," he yells to get their attention. Then in a more menacing tone, he asserts, "What the bloody hells are you doing? Are you all daft? Explain yourselves!"

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 9 AC:14 d20=6 ;
Saturday November 20th, 2021 5:02:10 PM
Not seeing anything amiss really limited Torryn's options.

"Um, what is it I'm supposed to be seeing?" She asked in little more than a whisper.

[Perception: 8!]

There was a bush. Yes, it was definitely a bush.

Mole; (RichP) AC 18; HP 5/11; CMD 13
Saturday November 20th, 2021 11:24:31 PM
Mole see what's happening and picks up his pace. "Loryn, I hope yur silver tongue can defuse the situation."

"I got it Mort." He say.

Spells Prepared
0- Create Water, Flare, Stabilize
1- Cure Light Wounds, Speak w/ Animals

Drack (Chris J) - hp 13/13 - AC 16 d20+8=15 ; d20+6=26 ; d20+6=7 ; d10+6=16 ;
Monday November 22nd, 2021 8:10:54 AM
Drack charges and swings at the closest little monstrosity. Hopefully with a body, we will know exactly what we are dealing with, and how best to get rid of them. If he can kill the first quickly, the odds would be reduced, and hopefully he had backup on the way.

If charge allowed, hit ac 15, damage 16
If unable to charge due to terrain, 26(nat 20)(missed the crit with a nat 1) damage 16

AC 13 HP 8/8 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K
Monday November 22nd, 2021 9:08:54 AM
Loryn's eyes go wide at the scene in front of them and his little legs start pumping furiously to get him to Agatha. "Have they gone mad?" he replies in answer to Mole. "This fits the bill of breaking things that cannot easily be repaired.

As Loryn approaches he heads to get between the crowd and Agatha while Mole attends to Eddie. For now, he will simply back up Mortimer by being there. The young man has taken the lead and the crowd is human, so it made sense to the gnome to let him continue the lead. he will stand ready and with a short glance over his shoulder he attempts to reassure Agatha, "We'll get this sorted and you out."

Spells
4-1st- Color Spray, Magic Weapon
0- Detect Magic, Read Magic, Mage Hand, Message

Gnome: 1/day Dancing Lights, Prestidigitation, Ghost Sound, x-Speak with Animals
Sorcerer Ray 7/ day 30' 1d6

Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 10/10 d20+1=20 ;
Monday November 22nd, 2021 12:38:07 PM
"Keep looking my friend" Ash says to the eagle. " There will be some delicious food for you when you're through. "

The mage himself keeps looking around, at the area Manalo pointed to.

Perception 20

DM BatMark -- They split the party? d20+16=22 ;
Monday November 22nd, 2021 7:54:11 PM
Mortimer suggests healing Big Eddie, and swaggers up with a badge while shouting for an explanation. Highlight to display spoiler: {Intimidate requires a full minute to change attitudes and actions. Mortimer can keep working on doing so, or change up his strategy.}
Mole acknowledges Mortimer’s call for healing, and hopes diplomacy can win the day.
Loryn is shocked by the madness that has infected the crowd, and interposes himself between some of them and Agatha (they surround her, so he cannot easily fend them all off.)

Mortimer’s forceful presence has certainly started getting the attention of many in the crowd, but they are too worked up to be completely cowed so quickly. Some continue to build the woodpile for the pyre, while others call out for the witch, Agatha, to be burned. Loryn is not attacked, but certainly is jostled by those big folk nearby nearby, who look visibly annoyed that the proceedings have been interrupted. Men are yelling, ”Burn the witch, burn the witch, burn the witch!” and a piping voice calls out, ”She seduced Heorstan into keeping those lizards, like a serpent coming between man and wife, she did!” Another man cries out, ”And all them cats hanging about, it just ain’t natural! Burn her, burn her!”

Things are continuing to look ugly here in town. What do the heroes do?

----

Ash calls out to the eagle which keeps circling above the hill, but it doesn’t seem to understand or hasn’t found a target. Highlight to display spoiler: {Ash would know from his training that he can’t communicate with a summoned animal without some additional means to make himself understood. It will otherwise just attack his enemies.}
Manolo keeps watching from the base of the hill, but is going to lose sight of the party and any critters if they keep moving beyond the crest of the hill.
Drack attempts to charge the tiny monster, but can’t quite reach it due to the dense underbrush atop the hill. It chitters wickedly before scampering quietly out of sight into the scrub.
Torrynashkabbeth spots a bush cleverly hiding behind a shrub, but no magic auras ahead.

After moving up the hillside, you find patches of forest surrounded by thick undergrowth and brambles. (Any creature larger than tiny treats most of the area as difficult terrain.) Your foes have melted into this brush and are not readily visible, at least for the moment. Do you wish to pursue them, or try something different?

Mole; (RichP) AC 18; HP 5/11; CMD 13 d20+8=26 ; d8+1=3 ;
Monday November 22nd, 2021 11:45:44 PM
Mole moves up to Eddie with his warhammer in hand. "Gabhail ri leigheas na tìre" he says and bathes Eddie in a soft green glow.

"Ya wanna set her a lite, I got a business end of my hammer for ya."

Cure Light Wounds on Eddie healing him for 3.

Perception DC26

Spells Prepared
0- Create Water, Flare, Stabilize
1- Cure Light Wounds (c), Speak w/ Animals

Acid Bolt 7/day - 1d6 damage

Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.) - HP: 8/8. AC:13
Tuesday November 23rd, 2021 1:02:23 AM
(ooc: According to DM Steve's post, there is a man, whom we haven't met, talking to Ezra. Which one of these two people is holding the torch? That part was not clear. How far away are they from Agatha?)

(Intimidate Check 19 from the previous post continues.)

Mortimer's stride, steady and unhesitant. The scowl upon his face is quite menacing. His glare smolders with intensity. With each belligerent person he passes, they're met with a chill that makes their blood run cold.

As he approaches Ezra and the man he talks with, he inquires again, "WHO is responsible for this MADNESS?"

IF Mortimer is now within 25 feet of Agatha, THEN he removes the broken and bloodied crossbow bolt from his belt pouch. The bolt he collected from the scene of Ballo's murder, and holds it up for everyone to see. "We know what killed Ballo ... Agatha is innocent!" He then commands, "Untie her ropes now!" He then points in her direction. To the casual observer, he was merely commanding someone to untie Agatha's ropes; they'd be mistaken. He was, in fact, commanding something to untie Agatha's ropes. That being his unseen specter that was following behind to him. (Unseen Servant)

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 9 AC:14 d20=15 ;
Tuesday November 23rd, 2021 5:12:31 AM
It seemed strange that such small creatures had the power to precipitate such an avalanche of debris. Torryn shrugged slightly. Perhaps they had magic at their disposal. That seemed likely. They were after all, fey.

It was all rather academic. She could not traverse the thorn bushes, nor was she prepared to damage them with her Fey Spark. That would render her little better than the mischievous critters within.

"We should leave them They aren't important." Torryn said as dismissively as she could. It was a calculated ruse designed to annoy the hidden sprites.

[Bluff: 18.]

She was hoping that ignoring them would annoy them sufficiently that they'd brazenly reveal themselves in order to attack again.

Drack (Chris J) - hp 13/13 - AC 16
Tuesday November 23rd, 2021 8:31:39 AM
Drack is quickly trying to figure out an alternate plan when Torryn declares she has no interest in pursing the murdering little thugs.

Not knowing that she was trying a ruse, he gawks. "Are ye daft woman? They just tried to kill us. They've probably killed the other things, including Ballo, and started the fire. I'm not for letting them scurry off."

Drack surveys the scrub patch. If it is circular in shape, he exits and moves around to the far side. "Encircle the brush to prevent them a clean escape, and then we will make them show themselves."

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 9 AC:14
Tuesday November 23rd, 2021 9:00:51 AM
Her bluff had worked; a little too well perhaps and not necessarily on her intended target. Still, perchance she could still use it to her advantage. The fiendish creatures might elect to dart away in her direction, given her feigned disinterest. If they did, she was ready with her Fey Spark. That would give them something to think about - other than hurting others. Still, it was far from clear that such would come to pass. Even had they numbered thirty rather than three, she was far from convinced that they could effectively 'surround' the fleeing saboteurs. Most likely they'd already slipped past, unseen. If they did however, venture into the open there was a chance that the eagle would spot them.

"You're wasting your time, Dracky. I think they've gone already." She told him with a sly wink, hoping that this time he understand her tactics. She flicked her long, blonde hair back to emphasize her dismissive remark.

AC 13 HP 8/8 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K
Tuesday November 23rd, 2021 1:04:15 PM
Big folk jostle and bump the gnome and calls to set the makeshift pyre alight fill the air. The small piping voice rings out and that gets his attention. The creature the ogres described, the small figure at the fire and prints near the theft of Grog's sword, but how to check and confront whatever it was? That, and it was likely disguised as a human child to blend in here.

Clever Mortimer, thinks the gnome upon hearing what he knows is a command to the unseen servant Mortimer cast just moments ago

But Loryn could not do much except warn the folks nearest him to back off. "last warning!" he cries to those nearest him as he kicks away some of the wood. "You are not going to be burning anyone."

Loryn will Ready and cast Color Spray at any who try and grab him

Spells
4-1st- Color Spray, Magic Weapon
0- Detect Magic, Read Magic, Mage Hand, Message

Gnome: 1/day Dancing Lights, Prestidigitation, Ghost Sound, x-Speak with Animals
Sorcerer Ray 7/ day 30' 1d6

Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 10/10
Tuesday November 23rd, 2021 3:31:22 PM
Ash rolled his eyes, and muttered a curse to himself under his breath.

His mother always said he was so smart, but lacked some common sense some times... this apparently was one of those times.

"I guess fly around and look majestic" he said to the bird, knowing full well it couldn't understand him.

The mage pinched his crooked nose, and followed the others closer up the hill.

DM BatMark -- Town and Country
Tuesday November 23rd, 2021 8:00:51 PM
Mortimer draws out the bloodied crossbow bolt from Ballo’s murder scene and proclaims the nearby Agatha’s innocence, just as the ropes binding her begin to slip off by some unseen hand.
Mole hammers home a verbal warning before drawing on the power of the earth to heal Big Eddie, who sits up groggily but is at least conscious.
Loryn, hearing the piping voice, is reminded of recent stories that might be related, and wonders whether a foe might be disguised as a child here.

Each of you may make a DC 15 perception check to hear what the unknown man is saying to Ezra, who holds a torch. Highlight to display spoiler: {”Ezra, you know she speaks against your trade in liquor, maybe the witch even set the place on fire.” Ezra still looks dubious but perhaps less so, eying the torch in his hand and Agatha on the ground.}

Elsewhere in the crowd, a reedy voice calls out, ”Look, she uses her dark magic to slip her bonds, you have to stop her!” Another voice nearer to Loryn spouts some high-pitched gibberish and exclaims, ”He’s trying to stop the burning, get him!” A nearby villager turns on Loryn and winds up to strike the gnome with a farming flail. (Loryn Highlight to display spoiler: {Loryn may cast the readied color spray, but will certainly hit more than just the one fellow who poses an immediate threat. It won’t hit Agatha or Big Eddie.})

Several nearby locals look over in interest when Mortimer raises the bloodied bolt and shouts with smoldering intensity. However, some turn their attention back to Agatha when the reedy voice reveals that she is getting loose, while others seem torn between the competing narratives. One asks confusedly, ”Um, how does that bolt prove anything?”

----

Ash rolls his eyes at having forgotten the basics from his Summoning 101 class, and pushes up the hill. The eagle continues circling, looking for an enemy to swoop down on.
Manolo is paralyzed by indecision.
Drack falls for Torryn’s ruse and looks for a way to cut off the vermin.
Torrynashkabbeth continues bluffing the foes, hoping that Drack will notice her wink.

Drack and others who follow his lead may make a survival, nature, or perception check to try to find an easier path through the scrub, which covers the hilltop and backslope (it is not just a patch, unfortunately.) A perception check may also give you (including the eagle) a chance to hear or see your elusive quarry. And of course you may try other actions that occur to you.

Mole; (RichP) AC 18; HP 5/11; CMD 13 d20+8=24 ;
Tuesday November 23rd, 2021 10:04:54 PM
"Bàthadh" Mole says and a large amount of water dowses the torch. "Ezra! He speaks nonsense!"

"As fer the rest of ya. Ya got any proof? If you got claims, take it to the law. You wanna go ahead with this," he slams his hammer on the ground and then raises it up, "I'm ready ta rumble."

Perception DC 24

Spells Prepared
0- Create Water, Flare, Stabilize
1- Cure Light Wounds (c), Speak w/ Animals

Acid Bolt 7/day - 1d6 damage

Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.) - HP: 8/8. AC:13 d20+1=5 ; d20+8=28 ;
Tuesday November 23rd, 2021 11:32:43 PM
(Perception: 5)

(Intimidate Check: 19, carried over from previous posts)

Things are getting really ugly. Especially those sopranos in the crowd. Mortimer realizes he needs to bring it home if he wants to intimidate this mob into submission. Well, that time has co...

"ENOUGH!!" roars Mortimer as his word echoes throughout the Hamlet. He utters arcane words of a darker kind, "dominaavion ro ukavrengavh" and from his hand, Mortimer fires into the sky a black, coruscating ray of crackling energy. With no target to strike, the ray claps out of existence. The residual energy from the spell slowly fades from his raised hand. Hopefully that gets their attention, he thinks as he continues to address the crowd.

"The time has come to dispel the rumors." The rest he is about to say is mostly speculative. It's what he thinks, he has no real, empirical proof, but that's not how he's going to present it. What can you say, fake it until you make it or break it before you buy it ... something like that.

(Bluff: 28, natural 20, lol)

"Ballo fought with his killer, he did. He shot his murderer with this crossbow bolt. It only wounded the creature. The blood you see here is from a Nuglub ... A GREMLIN; and it's NOT the only one! Windhorn is infested with them; gremlins of all sorts. There is one thing they ALL share, they're ALL [i]bog-bottom, dung heaps of the Fey world." Mortimer begins to pace back and forth, then stops and adds, "WE were out there, hunting Ballo's killer ... but WE had to end our hunt and come BACK here to stop YOU right-foul GITS from murdering an innocent woman: SHAME! You're acting no better than those bum-licking ankle-bitting sods!"

Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.) - HP: 8/8. AC:13
Tuesday November 23rd, 2021 11:34:42 PM
{ooc: I forgot to mention that Mortimer had cast Ray of Enfeeblement into the air.)

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 9 AC:14 d20=4 ;
Wednesday November 24th, 2021 6:02:26 AM
Torryn huffed in frustration. there was a lot of bush and not a sign of the pesky critters that had inflicted such harm upon her. Drack seemed to have circled around the other side with far too much enthusiasm, she thought. She couldn't see how their efforts would yield any positive results, but then perhaps she was underestimating the capabilities of the others. As for herself, she felt very limited. She had a spear and a tiny amount of Fey magic.

Torryn looked to Ash trudging yp the hill. Perhaps he'd have a better idea.

[OOC: Perception: 6! Yep, that bush is still there!]

Drack (Chris J) - hp 13/13 - AC 16
Wednesday November 24th, 2021 7:41:56 AM
"These little buggers are starting to tick me off. If there are dozens of the little rats running around, there is going to be a lot more death and destruction to follow. We gotta get at least one of them so we can show the townsfolk what they are fighting."

"If anyone has any great ideas, i'd be glad to hear them."

Drack sheathes his sword, and pulls his bow, and then starts moving slowly into the brush trying to spot one of the little monsters long enough to get a shot off.

Drack (Chris J) - hp 13/13 - AC 16 d20+5=25 ; d20+7=26 ; d20+3=15 ; d8=2 ;
Wednesday November 24th, 2021 7:45:02 AM
(Survival check 25, nat 20, to find a good path through the scrub.)
(Perception check 26 to spot one of the creatures.)

If he can get a shot off, hits ac 15, damage 2.(the die roller giveth, and the die roller taketh away.)

AC 13 HP 8/8 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K d20+2=13 ;
Wednesday November 24th, 2021 9:07:48 AM
Loryns eyes go wide as the man comes at him. Right on queue from the voice in the crowd. "Dear Alemi, some of them are under a Charm spell Mortimer" he says as he guesses where the voice that egged the man on to pivot slightly and cast.
Loryn shifts to send the cone of scintillating color to clip the man coming at him as well as to hopefully get to the at least one of gremlins in the crowd.
Cast Color Spray Will DC 15 15' cone

Spells
4-1st- xColor Spray, Magic Weapon
0- Detect Magic, Read Magic, Mage Hand, Message

Gnome: 1/day Dancing Lights, Prestidigitation, Ghost Sound, x-Speak with Animals
Sorcerer Ray 7/ day 30' 1d6

Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 10/10 d20+1=4 ; d20+10=11 ;
Wednesday November 24th, 2021 11:11:33 AM
Perception 4 Eagle's Perception 11

"What Bush?" Ash asked... cause he was positive he was looking in the wrong direction.

Reaching into his pocket, he pulls out a bit of wool. " Asmichallei exmosucuso..." he utters as he casts Ghost Sound. He aims it behind the bush, and to sound like people shouting.. hoping whatever is in the bush decided to move, or makes its location more known.

Manolo (Michael A) - HP 10/10 AC 17 d20=17 ;
Wednesday November 24th, 2021 7:53:32 PM
Manolo goes the gist of it and tries to help Torry with her plan, hoping it will work.

Aid another 17

OOC: had a few personal life problems.

DM BatMark -- Town and Country d20=19 ; d20=7 ; d20=6 ; d20=8 ; d20=17 ; d20=1 ; d20+2=5 ; d4=4 ; 2d4=4 ;
Wednesday November 24th, 2021 9:01:18 PM
Mortimer shoots an intimidating black ray up into the sky and lays out the evidence that Agatha is innocent.
Mole magics some water to douse Ezra’s torch, talks some sense into him, and again warns the mob.
Loryn cleverly directs his spell toward his attacker and hopefully one of the gremlins.

Loyrn’s color spray comes as a shock to the crowd, with two men and a woman knocked right out, and a child swaying in stunned silence. Unfortunately, the guy with the flail is unaffected, as is another woman caught in the spray. Fortunately, the flailer flails failingly, perhaps too taken aback at the blast to keep his eye on the prize--Loryn is missed widely!

Mortimer’s proclamation seems to be having a positive effect on the crowd--it feels like progress. Several folks nearby nod and grudgingly admit that Mortimer has a point. ”Ya, he’s got a point there, don’t he?” But another high voice calls out, ”More witches come to save this one with black magic, can’t you see?”

Ezra looks both surprised and relieved when his torch gets doused. He drops it and hollers at the man who had been pressing him, ”Dang it, Angus, do your own dirty work, you’ll not drag me into this!” Angus retorts, ”Ezra, it’s the bad times come again to test us all, and your weakness will be your undoing! You know she is a witch, and you do nothing. Fie!” He positively glowers at Ezra and the party.

The debate is starting to go your way, but is not over yet...

----

Ash and his eagle continue to look in vain for the foe, and he casts a spell.
Drack moves diagonally up a narrow game trail and catches another glimpse of a gremlin through a narrow break in the foliage about 45 feet away, and manages to shoot it with his bow. It squeaks in pain but continues to slink away.
Torrynashkabbeth huffs up the hill and tries to spot the pesky critters, but they remain elusive.
Manolo tries to catch up and help Torryn, but only succeeds in the former endeavor.

Manolo, Drack, and Torrynashkabbeth please make a DC 13 Will save.
If you fail, Highlight to display spoiler: {You hear loud shouting behind a nearby shrub, more human than the chittering from the gremlins.}
If you succeed Highlight to display spoiler: {You recognize some shouting from behind a bush as similar to the voices that time that Ash cast ghost sound behind Big Eddie in the pig catching contest. Ash is apparently trying to trick the gremlins.}

Ash completes his spell but gets no discernable reaction from sneaky gremlins.

Gremlin 1 AC:15 -2hp

Mole; (RichP) AC 18; HP 5/11; CMD 13 d20+8=12 ;
Wednesday November 24th, 2021 10:51:20 PM
"Angus, is it." Mole says walking up to the man. "What's yur beef with Agatha? Whenever somethin' happens, there's always someone pointin' a finger at her. At least three times this week she's been blame fer somethin'." he moves closer unslinging his shield. "Is that you? Is that you!"

"Who's it gonna be next? One of us?" He says gesturing to Mort and Loryn. "Seems to me that troll dungs like you're are always lookin' to go after anyone that fit your tiny image of what you think the Wold should be like." He pauses to put his hammer on his shoulder. "Leave. Now. Take that voice in the crowd trying to rile everyone up. The rest of ya. I got the first round if ya want stop this dung and have a drink."

Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.) - HP: 8/8. AC:13 d20+3=23 ; d20+3=18 ;
Thursday November 25th, 2021 12:37:18 AM
(Intimidate check 19, carried over.)

The farmer takes a swing at Loryn, and this raises the ire of the already angered Mortimer. It awakens graven spirits within; his hand radiates a shadowy nimbus. Mortimer vigorously approaches the armed farmer and puts his hand on his arm.

(Mortimer casts the spell-like ability GRAVE TOUCH on the farmer. Hit TouchAC: 23, natural 20. Crit Chance: 18, critical. No Save. Duration: 1 round. Causes living creature to become Shaken. It can cause a shaken target to become Frightened.)

The farmer feels a dark chill overtake his body. As their eyes meet, Mortimer coldly states, "Mate... YOU swing on my friend again, you're gonna make me angry! YOU don't want to make the Gravedigger* angry!"

* Mortimer was the local gravedigger before joining the group.

Drack (Chris J) - hp 13/13 - AC 16 d20+1=20 ; d20+7=22 ;
Thursday November 25th, 2021 6:35:10 AM
Drack ingnores the voice in the brush as an apparent ruse by one of the spellcasters. He continues moving through the brush, in the direction the wounded one retreated, looking for targets.

If he spots one, he will take a shot.

Perception 22

Drack (Chris J) - hp 13/13 - AC 16 d20+3=18 ; d8=5 ;
Thursday November 25th, 2021 6:35:58 AM
ac 18 to hit, damage 5

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 9 AC:14 d12=9 ; d20=3 ;
Thursday November 25th, 2021 9:45:23 AM
[Will save: 10]

Ugh! Oh great. Now what was happening? It seemed like there were more people coming to add to the confusion. Torryn stood, one fist on a hip, the other hand causally holding her spear. She was here first! If these latecomers wanted to cause a problem, she would happily set the straight - or Drack would: he was a LOT bigger than her. However, he was on the far side of the bushes.

"Mannny, I think there are some people coming and they don't sound very happy. Just be ready for trouble." She was ready, or rather, she would be once she'd invoked her Fey magic. Yet she was in no hurry to do so. That could be construed as an aggressive action; one hat could easily make a diccicult situation a lot lot worse..

More people. How would the critters in the bush react to that? She peered once more without any real hope of actually seeing anything. Her expectations were not exceeded.

{Perception: 5. It's definitely still a bush.]

Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 10/10 d20+1=18 ; d4+1=2 ;
Thursday November 25th, 2021 1:53:16 PM
" don't worry about the voices... thats my doing. " Ash says to his friends. The mage looks for the gremlin (Perception 18). If spotted he unleashes a magic missle ( 2dmg)

Manolo (Michael A) - HP 10/10 AC 17 d20+3=20 ; d20+5=24 ;
Thursday November 25th, 2021 7:29:30 PM
Manolo keeps going and tries to listen or look for any sign of the small trouble makers.
He recognizes Ash's ruse and keeps going after Torry to catch up.

Will save 20
Perception 24

DM BatMark -- Deathly Quiet d20+22=38 ;
Thursday November 25th, 2021 9:01:29 PM
Mortimer is quite angry at the farmer attacking Loryn, and touches him gravely.
Mole confronts Angus, and offers the crowd a round of drinks if they will leave off this rioting. (OOC: Please give me a diplomacy roll to see how well they react to this enticement)
Loryn takes a moment to assess the results of his color spray.

Agatha is finally free of all her bonds and spits out the gag. Big Eddie, still woozy but determined, picks up a piece of firewood that could serve as a cudgel and moves to her side.

The farmer that was attacking Loryn goes white as a sheet at Mortimer’s touch, and you see a wet stain in his trousers as he drops his flail and blubbers, ”Whaawhaat?! What’s going on, I have no idea what came over me! I mean, all these bad things in town need to stop, but I’ve got nothing against the gnome. I’m sorry, I’m so sorry!”

The high pitched voice in the crowd calls out again, ”She must have spelled him, trying to turn us against each other so she can escape! And look, now she’s loose, get her!”

Angus looks haughtily down at Mole and retorts, ”I just want Windhorn to be great once again, not dragged down into the cesspool of history by the likes of her. This was a nice hamlet until we started getting riffraff like her mucking up our chances of making a comeback. And we don’t need outsiders like you telling us what to do, thank you very much. Why don’t you leave!” A man steps up next to him, requisite pitchfork in hand and says, ”Yeah, what he said. We don’t need your kind around here.” (Any local characters Highlight to display spoiler: {recognize the man with the pitchfork as Keith, a local laborer and handyman.})

----

Ash explains that the voices are his doing, and looks for a gremlin, without success.
Manolo catches up with Torryn, but also finds no sign of your tormentors.
Drack scans the brush and tries to move forward, but finds that the game trail he was on loops in an unhelpful direction. He can look for another way forward if he likes, but sees and hears no foes to attack at the moment.
Torrynashkabbeth hears more voices and is ready for trouble, but no more appears.

The gremlin that Drack shot last round was moving away to the northwest, although at this point you can’t be sure that they all did, nor that they aren’t moving closer and farther when it suits them. They do seem to be quite stealthy and quick, so any of those possibilities are plausible.

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 9 AC:14 d20=15 ; d20=18 ; d6=3 ; d6=5 ;
Friday November 26th, 2021 4:06:25 AM
Another scouring of the scene. Yet patience had never been Torryn's strong point. That was putting it politely. Still, she exercised such as she was able to muster and attempted to follow the sounds she heard to see if any of the tiny Fey could be tracked.

[Perception: 17]

[Should Torryn spot a gremlin she'll immediately unleash a 'Fey Spark'.
Ranged Touch: 18+4
Damage: 5].

Drack (Chris J) - hp 13/13 - AC 16 d20+5=18 ; d20+7=21 ; d20+3=20 ; d8=2 ;
Friday November 26th, 2021 7:59:01 AM
Drack keeps trying to slowly and carefully pick his way through the brush(survival 18), looking for a target(perception 21)

If a shot presents itself, hit ac 20, damage 2

Manolo (Michael A) - HP 10/10 AC 17 d20+5=21 ;
Friday November 26th, 2021 6:48:15 PM
Manolo keeps following Torry for the time being.
'Is there any clues as to where they could hide or go?', Manolo wonders as he takes a few looks at the surroundings.

Perception 21

Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.) - HP: 8/8. AC:13 d20+8=14 ; d20+1=8 ;
Friday November 26th, 2021 7:10:40 PM
"That's it!," Mortimer has had enough of these shrill-voiced, treble makers! "WHERE are these lil squeakers?"

Then it dawns on him. Various bits of information begin to coalesce in his mind. Loryn warned of a Charm spell. The towns people seem to be acting on the suggestions from these child-like voices. He even recalls hearing some unintelligible gibberish that could pass for a gremlin language, but he had paid it no mind. It all makes sense now.

Mortimer draws his sickle and makes a serious request of the crowd, "EVERYONE, SCATTER! THERE ARE GREMLINS AMONG YOU!" (Diplomacy [Make Request]: 14. Intimidate: 19, carried over.)

(Perception: 8, to locate the origin of the voices.)

DM BatMark -- Let's Just Calm Things Down a Bit
Friday November 26th, 2021 10:02:15 PM
Mortimer in a flash of insight decides the squeakers are the key, and shouts new demands.
Mole hesitates in all the confusion.
Loryn follows Mole’s example.

When Mortimer draws a weapon and hollers a warning about gremlins, the crowd responds. Those who were waffling quickly step apart, or perhaps closer to a spouse or loved one, while even many of those who were hostile have doubt creep into their eyes. The unconscious and stunned men, women, and child of course remain where they are. No one is fleeing yet, but it is easier to see through the scrum now that folks have spaced themselves apart a bit. You do not see any obvious gremlins, just mostly humans with a sprinkling of other noble races, mostly men, a few women, and another child on the other side of the crowd.

Any PC with ranks in spellcraft may make a DC 11 check Highlight to display spoiler: { and realize that it is very unusual for the child who was hit by Loryn’s color spray to not be knocked unconscious.}

----

Ash pauses to take stock of the situation.
Manolo follows Torryn and takes a thorough look around, to no effect.
Drack finds a thinner bit of brush to push through and moves forward, but still cannot find an enemy to attack despite scouting quite carefully.
Torrynashkabbeth scours the scene impatiently as always, but finds no fey to spark.

Have the gremlins left? Is there some other way to hunt them down?

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 9 AC:14 d20=7 ;
Saturday November 27th, 2021 6:18:30 AM
Torryn shrugged. "How can we know? If you were them and we were coming after you, you'd keep still or disappear I'm sure." She told Manolo. "It's frustrating. I just wish I could be of more use, but I simply can't do the clever stuff that Loryn does. There's a lot of bramble and my spear will only reach in a short way. I hate to admit it, but I think they've won this round. Perhaps we should consider heading back?"

She kept a wary out out. They dark Fey were sneaky and if they thought they could get in a sneaky attack, they would surely try. So she was determined to be ready. Unfortunately, that readiness was all too apparent as small sparks flashed spasmodically through her hair.

[OOC: Perception, 9. Again, not seeing a great deal of note.]

Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.) - HP: 8/8. AC:13 d20+4=10 ;
Monday November 29th, 2021 10:54:56 AM
(Spellcraft: 10, fail.)

Since Mortimer is still new to the sorcerer game, he doesn't have a complete understanding of magic ... especially spells cast by others. However he's become familiar with his own spells after countless hours of practice. Though he sees the three people who have succumb to Loryn's colorful spell. He isn't quite sure what to make of it.

"Loryn, is this your doing?[b]" he asks pointing at the girl. [b]"Keeping the girl standing, so she doesn't fall and hurt herself?" He walks over and places his hand on her shoulder and gives her a slight shake. He then stares at the others around her.

Drack (Chris J) - hp 13/13 - AC 16 d20+5=11 ; d20+7=11 ;
Monday November 29th, 2021 10:58:04 AM
Drack attempts to resort to his skills hunting(survival 11), in order to come up with a better way to hunt these little creatures. failing that, he will begin backing his way out of the brush towards his companions, keeping an eye on his surroundings so that he is not ambushed by surprise (perception 11).

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 9 AC:14
Monday November 29th, 2021 11:29:40 AM
Drack looked as though he knew precisely what he was doing. It was impressive to behold. She had no delusions that she looked anything but impressive. that had everything to do with the fact that she really didn't know what she was looking for, nor how to go about finding it. So far all she'd found was a rather large and thorny bush. (She was discounting the large and very uncomfortable rock that had found its way to her back.)

AC 13 HP 8/8 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K d20+8=19 ; d20+2=11 ;
Monday November 29th, 2021 12:03:40 PM
Loryn stands looking through the crowd, pretty sure he is right. The dark fey were right here in the crowd and inciting things. Every shrill voice is followed too quickly by one of the residents of Windhorne.

"There! Mortmier, that has to be one of the dark fey." Loryn points to the 'child' still standing in the blast of his Color Spray. "No child could withstand that spell!"
Spell craft 19

Loryn scans for some of the other voices and comes to rest on the other child he can see and shouts out, "Bit odd don't you think that the children are here without parents for a a good old fashion murder by fire?!"
Perception 11

Mole could certainly take care of himself, but he calls over that direction anyway, "Angus, you're sounding bewitched, without clarity of common thought. You want to rethink your murderous intentions!"

Loryn readies on the 'child' trying to attack and casts Color Spray if they do

Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.) - HP: 8/8. AC:13 d6=2 ; d6=4 ;
Monday November 29th, 2021 12:20:42 PM
After hearing Loryn's explanation, that he didn't cause the girl to stand ... that she had resisted passing out on her own and shouldn't have been able to. He attempts to see through the gremlin's magical disguise (Will save 19, rolled in private post).

He holds back his attack until he knows for sure. Tricksters will trick. Mortimer doesn't want to risk slaying a child with the whole hamlet watching.

(IF Mort sees through the disguise, he will attempt a Coup De Grace. Crit Damage: 2+4=6 damage.)

Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 10/10 d20+1=7 ;
Monday November 29th, 2021 2:53:32 PM
Ash keeps looking around, but his eyes were used to searching books and not woods. Nothing sticks out to him, so he watches the others to make sure nothing is sneaking up on them.

Manolo (Michael A) - HP 10/10 AC 17
Monday November 29th, 2021 7:35:02 PM
Manolo heads back for the time being.
"You are right", he simply replies to Torryn.

DM BatMark -- This is child's play compared to...
Monday November 29th, 2021 8:03:52 PM
Loryn explains that the so-called ‘child’ should not still be standing after being color-sprayed, she should either be unconscious or unaffected. Must be a dark fey! She readies another spell in case of attack. Loryn Highlight to display spoiler: {You know that a creature affected by your color spray as this one has been is likely to shake off the effects in no more than another round or two.}
Mortimer tries to see through the ‘girl’s’ disguise and grabs her to shake her a bit, but she seems like any other waif, just stunned.
Mole looks back and forth at the various players.

The stunned ‘child’ stands there, swaying a bit with a glassy-eyed look. The other child turns away and starts moving toward a nearby treeline, crying for momma and wailing about how the witch is going to eat her. Several villagers watch her go, with odd expressions on their faces. You may make a DC 10 Sense Motive check Highlight to display spoiler: {They seem confused by something about the departing child.}

----

Ash is more used to leafing through books than looking through leaves, and sees nothing new of interest.
Drack, with the advantage of knowing where to start looking, is able to find some tiny humanoid tracks leading off to the northwest, although they meander a bit due to the overgrowth. They will probably be hard to follow, but Drack is off to a good start!
Torrynashkabbeth finds herself between a rock and a thorny place, and thinks about heading back.
Manolo decides to head back when Torryn mentions the idea.

Drack has a new lead, so does the group still want to head back or try to follow the tracks?

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 9 AC:14
Tuesday November 30th, 2021 6:10:39 AM
Should Drack inform them of his find, Torryn would agree with his preferred course; likely pursuit. That way, at least, she'd feel as though she was doing something meaningful. Perhaps it wasn't. Perhaps the tracks would simply peter out and vanish, but following was worth a try. In all likelihood they'd disappear sooner rather than later and then they'd head back to town anyway; so a minor delay was inconsequential.

Her back ached somewhat and felt stiff, but dancing was not the easy path that some believed. She was used to aches. She expected to feel much better tomorrow and that would suffice.

Drack (Chris J) - hp 13/13 - AC 16 d20+5=20 ;
Tuesday November 30th, 2021 6:22:44 AM
Drack calls out his find to the others, “I’ve found some little tracks heading off to the northeast. I’m going to try and follow them. Let’s see if we can find these little buggers.”

Drack then tries to follow the tracks. (Survival check: 20)

Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 10/10
Tuesday November 30th, 2021 12:31:28 PM
Ash pats Drack on the back. " Already paying off."

The mage will follow the others, letting Drack lead the way.

AC 13 HP 8/8 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K
Tuesday November 30th, 2021 5:29:31 PM
"Mortimer, get ahold of that one and puts some rope on it, That's no child! I'm after the other"

Loryn moves as best he can after the 'child' heading into the wood as he notes the confused faces Sense Motive take 10

If Loryn can get within 15' with just a move, he casts Color Spray Otherwise, he cast Dancing Lights to appear about the 'child' to keep it nicely lit up.

Spells
4-1st- xColor Spray, Magic Weapon
0- Detect Magic, Read Magic, Mage Hand, Message

Gnome: 1/day Dancing Lights, Prestidigitation, Ghost Sound, x-Speak with Animals
Sorcerer Ray 7/ day 30' 1d6

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 9 AC:14 d20=13 ;
Tuesday November 30th, 2021 5:57:31 PM
"Come on, Manolo, we'd better go see what he's found. These dark fey are nasty, so we'd best stay alert." She then duly set off to catch up with Ash and Drack doing her best to be observant.

[Perception: 15 - tracks/fey]

She let out a soft sigh as she moved quickly to catch up with the others. If only the pests liked dancing; she'd be a lot more use then. As it was she could only do her best and hope that it was enough.

Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.) - HP: 8/8. AC:13 d20+5=16 ;
Tuesday November 30th, 2021 7:26:16 PM
Mortimer gives Loryn a nod. He believes him wholeheartedly ... it's what he thinks as well. However there's always the possibility that this could be some clever trick within an even grander scheme. The optics of him hacking up a small girl in front of the entire hamlet was NOT what he had hoped for when he woke up today!

"Oh hunky bloody dory!" he mutters in frustration. He drops his sickle and unshoulders his backpack. He then commands his servant, "Bring me the rope you untied!" He then starts removing an empty sack from his backpack. He states to the crowd, "I believe this is a gremlin in the form of a girl. Goin' to bag her up and take her to the Keep until we know for sure! I could use your help!" He hopes everyone has been paying attention up to this point. (Diplomacy [Make Request]: 16.)

Once the bag is out, Mortimer forces it over the girl and tries to force her down into a fetal position. If the rope has arrived by then, he will begin preparations to tie off the opening and wrap up the rest; like a trussed pork belly. Should he be concerned that his stomach just rumbled?

Manolo (Michael A) - HP 10/10 AC 17 d20+5=11 ;
Tuesday November 30th, 2021 8:00:07 PM
"We should take chase", Manolo says, agreeing with the group.

"I will watch for a possible ambushes", Manolo says as he takes a look around.

Perception 11

DM BatMark -- All's Quiet on the Eastern Front
Tuesday November 30th, 2021 8:16:12 PM
Loryn calls for Mortimer to bind the stunned ‘child’ then casts a dancing lights near the one moving away, while trying to understand the villagers’ odd looks. Highlight to display spoiler: {They looked confused by something about the ‘children’}
Mortimer agrees, but worries about this being yet another trick. He summons his servant to bring him the nearby rope, pulls out a sack, and declares his intention to capture the girl.
Mole stands around like he was caught in the color spray, even though he wasn’t. Perhaps he is trying a clever trick back at the gremlins?

The adults who were knocked out by the color spray have regained consciousness, but are only able to loll about in a stunned state for the moment. The nearest ‘child’ is still stunned, but her eyes seem more focused than a moment ago, darting about wildly instead of staring off into space. The other child has made it to the trees, but is illuminated by the dancing lights.

----

Drack finds the gremlins’ tracks--which were very hard to follow--and leads the party in pursuit.
Ash congratulates Drack and follows along.
Torrynashkabbeth calls Manolo to tag along, and moves out watchfully. She is able to use her dancer’s grace to slip between at least some of the brush and branches.
Manolo agrees with giving chase and takes a good look around.

Drack cleverly picks up the trail and even finds some droplets of greenish gremlin blood along the way. After about 30 feet, though, the track and blood seem to vanish, and there is no sign of them anywhere in the immediate vicinity, he is pretty sure of it.

DM BatMark -- Addendum
Tuesday November 30th, 2021 9:03:44 PM
None of the locals are leaping to assist Mortimer in his stated intention to capture the girl, but they are also not resisting.

Mole; (RichP) AC 18; HP 5/11; CMD 13 d20-1=18 ; d20+8=22 ;
Tuesday November 30th, 2021 9:41:05 PM
Mole starts off after the girl as fast as the fastest dwarven sprinter. He keeps his eyes trained on the child.

Perception DC22

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 9 AC:14 d20=10 ;
Wednesday December 1st, 2021 6:46:51 AM
"Well!" Torryn huffed having caught up with Drack. She didn't know what else to say, so decided to call forth her Fey Sight to see if that revealed anything else.

[OOC: Perception:12, but Torryn is largely focusing on Detect Magic and then Detect Poison. It seemed likely that such nasty creatures wouldn't be above resorting to such stuff.]

"Just let me have a look around." Was her explanation as she peered about in the hope of finding something new.

Drack (Chris J) - hp 13/13 - AC 16 d20+7=27 ;
Wednesday December 1st, 2021 7:47:51 AM
Drack follows the tracks, and calls out the blood to the others as he spots it. When the tracks come to an end, he looks up and around to see if there is a tree they could’ve escaped the ground into.

If there is a tree, he will start searching the tree and any connecting trees that they could have moved to, visually. If there are no trees, he will start looking at the ground for signs of a trap door or hidden entrance in the immediate area that the tracks ended. (Perception check 27, nat 20).

He informs the others. “The tracks disappear right in this area. They likely either went underground, or into the trees. If anyone has any sort of knack at finding that which is skillfully hidden, now is the time to practice.”

AC 13 HP 8/8 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K d20+2=11 ; d6=2 ;
Wednesday December 1st, 2021 3:46:41 PM
Loryn moves the lights to keep up and heads after the 'child' as well, deciding that he is indeed right on this one. If Loryn is within 45', he closes 15' and casts a ray of acid.

Ranged Touch Attack AC 11 if by some miracle that hits Dmg 2

Spells
4-1st- xColor Spray, Magic Weapon
0- Detect Magic, Read Magic, Mage Hand, Message

Gnome: 1/day xDancing Lights, Prestidigitation, Ghost Sound, x-Speak with Animals
Sorcerer Ray 7/ day 30' 1d6 Cast 1

Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 10/10 d20+1=8 ;
Wednesday December 1st, 2021 7:07:32 PM
Ash lets out a muffle laugh, as he is blinder than usual. " If i crossed my eyes, i bet i couldn't see my
nose."

Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.) - HP: 8/8. AC:13 d20=6 ; d20+3=12 ;
Wednesday December 1st, 2021 7:27:23 PM
Mortimer is a bit surprised by Mole. It certainly wasn't pretty, but he didn't think a dwarf could run that fast. It was almost as if he was breaking some sort of law of motion; if such a thing was ever declared.

"Hey mate ... a gremlin in the bag is worth two in the trees!" He impresses himself with that bit of wisdom. Maybe he should write it down someday.

Mortimer continues with the sacking on the stunned gremlin-girl thing. He forcefully pulls the sack down over the little girl. If he can maneuver her into fetal position, he will invert the bag back into the upright position and begin to tie off the opening. This skinny, little girl couldn't be more than 20 to 30 pounds. If it reverts back to its normal form; less than that.

(Strength Check: 6. Dexterity Check: 12. And whatever difference in size bonuses apply.)

Manolo (Michael A) - HP 10/10 AC 17 d20+5=7 ;
Wednesday December 1st, 2021 7:51:04 PM
Manolo tries to look around for sign of the little critters, but alas, he was too much confused how could they lose them without even a faint trace.
"Did they cast a spell ?....They couldn't just disappear could they ?", he asks rhetorically.
Perception 7

DM BatMark -- Book em, Mano d20+5=21 ; d20+20=29 ;
Wednesday December 1st, 2021 8:06:27 PM
Mortimer, after some witticism, manages to get the whole bag over the stunned ‘girl’ who falls over like a sack of potatoes in his weak grip.
Mole sprints like a slow motion rockfall after the fleeing ‘girl.’ It is still too crowded at the beginning to truly run in game terms, but he gets to within 20 feet of her with a double move.
Loryn closes a little bit of distance with the ‘girl’ and flings a ray of acid that sizzles into the foilage after missing her.

The ‘girl’ in the bag goes berserk, with shrill childish cries that quickly turn into vicious, inhuman snarls. She is thrashing about madly, trying to escape the closed but not yet tied bag. Mortimer and anyone else nearby can make a grapple check with a +4 bonus vs DC 21 to try to keep her contained, or of course do something else of your choice.

The other girl ducks behind some trees and tries to make off into the shadows. Please make a DC 29 perception check if you want to try to spot or target her with an attack this round.

The locals seem shocked by this turn of events, and even Angus is like, ”What the heck is that thing? Although then he slyly recovers with, ”What did you do to that poor girl? Is that some kind of witches’ bag?”

----

Ash lets his eyes cross looking at his own nose, and they get stuck that way for a moment, just like his Lady Mother back in Herranmar warned they would.
Manolo looks around and wonders aloud whether the gremlins used a spell to vanish.
Drack looks carefully into the trees and at the ground for signs of where the gremlins went, but they truly seem to have vanished with no further trace to be found.
Torrynashkabbeth does some magical sleuthing where the gremlins disappeared. Highlight to display spoiler: {There is a dim aura of lingering magic here. With 2 more rounds of concentration, you may be able to identify the schools with a DC19 Knowledge arcana check. You may go ahead and roll it unless you want to do something else in the intervening rounds.}

Aside from Torryn’s continued magical inspection, there is no obvious path to pursue here atop the hill. What’s next for our intrepid heroes?

Drack (Chris J) - hp 13/13 - AC 16
Thursday December 2nd, 2021 8:16:12 AM
Drack looks around for a normal way that the gremlins could have escaped, and finding none, he feels frustrated.

"None of you know how to find secret or hidden things? so be it then.."

D waits to see what Torry is concentrating and focused upon

While the fighter waits, he starts to wonder what sort of skills the people in this little "group" possess. If any. So far, nobody has really shown any. But, on the other hand, other than a little questionable tracking skills, he hasn't really shown anything either. D decides to hold judgement until he sees what they can do when battle comes. Hopefully it's not a fatal decision.

Mole; (RichP) AC 18; HP 5/11; CMD 13 d20+8=17 ; d20+10=19 ;
Thursday December 2nd, 2021 9:27:18 AM
Mole continues after the little girl. He stops where he loses track of her in the forest. He looks for tracks.

Survival DC19, Perception DC17

AC 13 HP 8/8 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K d20=13 ;
Thursday December 2nd, 2021 10:20:55 AM
Loryn completely loses the gremlin in the trees and comes up next to Mole to help him track the creature instead. Aid Another 13 granting +2
Loryn recalls the Dancing Lights to him and Mole as well

"How are you doing Mortimer!" he calls out, only being about 40' away

Spells
4-1st- xColor Spray, Magic Weapon
0- Detect Magic, Read Magic, Mage Hand, Message

Gnome: 1/day xDancing Lights, Prestidigitation, Ghost Sound, x-Speak with Animals
Sorcerer Ray 7/ day 30' 1d6 Cast 1

Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.) - HP: 8/8. AC:13
Thursday December 2nd, 2021 1:41:40 PM
Mortimer shouts back to Loryn, "JUST PEACHY!" with a quavering voice while struggling to hold down a hysterical gremlin. He hopes his sarcasm is discernible over its crazed and ferocious snarls that are reminiscent of a rabid honey badger aggressively trying to mate with a shocker lizard.

(ooc: Will post the rest later.)

Manolo (Michael A) - HP 10/10 AC 17 d20+5=22 ; d20+5=18 ;
Thursday December 2nd, 2021 5:58:55 PM
Manolo keeps looking for signs that could shed more light about what might they have done to go away.
He smells the air and listens carefully to the surrounding.

"Anyone has any ideas ?"
Perception 22

Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.) - HP: 8/8. AC:13 d20+15=23 ; d20+15=35 ; d4=3 ;
Thursday December 2nd, 2021 8:02:23 PM
Time seemingly stands still, as Mortimer considers his next act. The colors of the Living Wold fade to grays and shadows. In this space of time, his breath turns to frost and the hands of darker things slowly caress his form. He welcomes their cold embrace. With this, his lingering perturbations are satisfied.

"...is that some kind of witches’ bag?" "Shut it, you PRAT!" interrupts Mortimer with a hiss. With frost still on his breath, he looks at Angus with a menacing stare (Intimidate 19, carried over). "Shhh ... baby's got a temper!"

Mortimer immediately draws his dagger and drives the blade into the gremlin through the sack and into the ground. He leaves it in, staking the vile creature to the ground.

(Mortimer attacks Gremlin with his Dagger. Uses Hero Point for +8 Bonus. +4 Prone, HitAC: 23. (sigh, the 35 was from an accidental double click). Damage: 3. He leaves the dagger in the gremlin in an attempt to stake it to the ground.)

Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 10/10
Thursday December 2nd, 2021 8:24:04 PM
"In the library!" Ash replies to Drack. " many hidden buts of knowledge in the library. But out here, in the woods, thats a no go. "

DM BatMark -- Get it off me! d20+5=15 ; d4+5=6 ; d20+25=36 ;
Thursday December 2nd, 2021 8:39:23 PM
Mole looks for the fleeing ‘girl’ and her tracks, but only finds what may be the latter, small then tiny footprints leading deeper into the trees.
Loryn helps Mole spot the tracks and calls out to make sure that Mortimer is ok.
Mortimer is just peachy until he grows dark and frosty, snarks at Angus, and shoves a dagger into the bagged gremlin, which shrieks in agonized anger but is not pinned to the ground.

The injured gremlin bursts from the bag and whips out a wicked spiked chain. (Mortimer may make an attack of opportunity as it comes forth.) It looks like a grubby fey waif, dirty and mangy. It lashes out with the chain at Mortimer, ripping him nastily for 6hp of damage.

As the snarling creature emerges from the bag, Agatha shouts, ”That’s a gremlin, see I told you they were hereabouts causing trouble!” Angus starts to interject, but Big Eddie steps up, pokes him in the chest with his cudgel, and tells him to shut his gob, just as Mortimer tells Angus off as well. Angus seems taken aback for a moment, then sneers, turns his back, and starts to stalk off. All the other locals on the scene seem frozen in shock for the moment.

Gremlin 1: AC15 -3hp

----

Manolo keeps looking around, but finds nothing to shed light on the missing gremlins.
Drack looks around in frustration, and wonders what useful skills he and these others will prove to have.
Ash claims to be of more use in a library.
Torrynashkabbeth is able to keep concentrating on her magical investigations if she likes.Highlight to display spoiler: {There is a dim aura of lingering magic here. You may be able to identify the schools with a DC19 Knowledge arcana check.}

Otherwise, it remains calm in this part of the wood.

Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.) - HP: 2/8. AC:13 d20+7=15 ; d4=3 ; d20+3=6 ; d3=3 ;
Friday December 3rd, 2021 1:16:50 AM
Mortimer realizes he had made the right decision. There was no chance that sack would have contained this little beast. The little bugger was able to obliterate the sack with a slimmest of holes. He stabs it again for its trouble.

(Attack of Opportunity: Hit AC: 15. Damage: 3.)

The pain finally hits him and the blood begins to spill. Mortimer strategically backs up with dagger in hand. He wishes he hadn't dropped his sickle. As far as he knows, his friends are a short distance away contemplating their own navels. "Mole... Loryn, would you please join me, HERE. This lil bugger wants to dance!"

Mortimer then sends an icy Ray of Frost at the gremlin (Hit TouchAC: 6. Damage: 3 frost damage.)

Without turning his gaze away from the gremlin, Mortimer questions the mob of statues standing around him, "Where are your torches and pitchforks NOW?"

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 9 AC:14 d20=8 ; d20=10 ; d20=6 ; d20=19 ;
Friday December 3rd, 2021 5:15:59 AM
"There is no poison hereabouts." Toryn told them confidently. "But there's definitely been some magic used . I'm not sure what sort; probably Fey magic - if that's a "sort".

[Roll1, Know Arcana: 8]
[Roll2: Perception: 12]
[Roll3: entirely wasted as I hit the thing by accident.]

There didn't seem to be much else that they could do here; at least not that Torryn could tell.
"Hmm, looks like once again, they've slipped away. It's annoying, but understandable. If they stay and show themselves, they'll perish. So THEY ARE CLEARLY ADRAID OF US." She raised her voice in conclusion, hoping to provoke a response. Yet she didn't really expect one.

[OOC: Torryn will pause and wait a moment for a response being alert for any sudden movement. Should nothing happen she'll advocate returning to town]

Drack (Chris J) - hp 13/13 - AC 16
Friday December 3rd, 2021 7:59:11 AM
An obviously frustrated Drack begins pacing around, trying to come up with an idea. The use of magic changed the hunt, and he had little knowledge of it.

"Alright Torryn. There is little else that I see that we can do here. Let's head back to town and fill in the others. At least we got a look at what we are up against. We need to figure out how to hunt them."

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 9 AC:14
Friday December 3rd, 2021 8:07:19 AM
"I agree. Hopefully, someone has knowledge or skills that lend themselves better to combatting their cunning. I'm afraid that such magic as I possess is really ....well, not subtle." She had a penchant for tackling things head on; just as she'd done the drunken ogres. Her Fey magic protected her: that was all. Then again, she did have her Fey Spark and that could deliver a nasty sting. Still, it was all very direct and she needed to see an opponent and confront it to be effective. It seemed that she really did need to pay more attention to Agratha's lessons. The elderly halfling knew her stuff. It was just that Torryn was an impatient student. Impatience was her watch word.

She flexed her back and rolled her shoulders, trying to ease the ache in her back before turning her steps to the journey home.

AC 13 HP 8/8 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K d20+2=14 ; d6=5 ;
Friday December 3rd, 2021 8:55:27 AM
Loryn is looking about the ground when Mortimer yells and Loryn spins. That was not the call of 'hey could use a hand', and Loryn moves to his friend. Loryn moves 15' back and sends a Ray of Acid lancing towards the gremlin

Ranged Touch attack Range 30' Hit AC 14 Dmg 5

Spells
4-1st- xColor Spray, Magic Weapon
0- Detect Magic, Read Magic, Mage Hand, Message

Gnome: 1/day xDancing Lights, Prestidigitation, Ghost Sound, x-Speak with Animals
Sorcerer Ray 7/ day 30' 1d6 Cast 2

Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 10/10
Friday December 3rd, 2021 10:02:29 AM
Ash smiled at Torryn's words of not being subtle. " I know exactly how you feel Torryn. If we seen the creature I am sure we would be able to subdue them. Its just the little matter of finding them. Maybe the others had better luck than we did. "

Mole; (RichP) AC 18; HP 5/11; CMD 13 d20+8=12 ; d20+10=17 ;
Friday December 3rd, 2021 2:39:32 PM
Mole loses track of the creature. He can see the tracks, but cannot see the creature who made them. He continues to stare out into the forest watching for it.

Perception DC12, Survival DC 17

DM BatMark -- Mort for Mortimer? d20+4=13 ; d20+5=16 ; d4+5=8 ; d20+7=12 ;
Friday December 3rd, 2021 9:52:32 PM
Mortimer stabs the gremlin as it erupts from the sack, hitting it for another 3hp of damage, then steps back to shoot an icy ray that goes wide of the mark, all while chastising the crowd.
Mole keeps looking for the gremlin that went into the woods, but cannot see or hear it.
Loryn hears Mortimer call for help and fires an acid ray at the gremlin, but it just misses the quick little critter.

The previously bagged gremlin is looking pretty bloodied, but not giving up the fight. Big Eddie squares up to take a swing at it with his cudgel, but misses by a whisker. Not to be outdone, Angus strikes with his own cudgel at the gremlin, but also misses. ”Cursed foul things called here by the witch, no doubt!” he exclaims. The gremlin ignores them both and goes after its most effective tormentor, Mortimer, with its spiked chain. It connects with a vicious blow across Mortimer’s neck, leaving him unconscious and bleeding on the ground (8 hp of damage.) It cackles with evil glee at the sight. The rest of the crowd starts to scatter in a panic.

Gremlin 1: AC15 -6hp

----

Drack, frustrated and unfamiliar with magic, suggests heading back toward town.
Torrynashkabbeth declares that there is no poison about, but is unable to identify the magical auras more precisely. She tries to trick the gremlins into revealing themselves, but none show and she seconds the idea of heading to town.
Ash feels as unsubtle as Torryn claims to be, and wishes you could find the gremlins.
Manolo offers no better idea.

With no more sign of the gremlins to be found, the four heroes head back to town, alive but frustrated by their elusive quarry. After some time on the trail, and still on alert because they do not know where the gremlins went, they spot another potential deadfall of logs and rocks similar to the site of the previous ambush. There do not appear to be any gremlins lurking about here, though.

Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.) - HP: -6/8. AC:13 d20+3=20 ;
Saturday December 4th, 2021 12:32:47 AM
(Stabilize Roll: Con Check: d20+2=19 -6 penalty = 13 vs. DC10, Success.)

(ooc: I mistakenly rolled a Fort Save instead of a Con Check, so I adjusted by subtracting 1 from my roll.)

Mortimer stands by a raging campfire deep within a dark and shadowy forest. A place he recently always finds himself when he dreams at night; tucked away in his bed. Except this time, he faces the darkness, not the fire. Oh, and blood pours from a wound on his neck.

Ambrose Margrave stands by the fire as usual. He looks upon Mortimer with disappointment and disgust. There is a chatter of many concerned and hushed voices in the darkness from all around. This would usually draw Ambrose's ire since he has the stage, something he takes most seriously.

"oh my, all is lost!" ... "what is that thing, a gremlin he called it?" ... "why aren't his friends helping him?" ... "like I've always said, he's nothing but common, street trash!" ... "i warned you not to put all our eggs into one basket." ... "sooo much bloood, oooh my!" ... "when I get my hands on him, he'll wish he was ..."

"ENOUGH! I have the stage," barks Lord Ambrose Margrave. "It's not over yet ... SEE!"

A great multitude of dark, shadowy figures barely emerge from the surrounding darkness, not daring to step into the light. There is a sigh of relief as the blood pouring from Mortimer's neck slows to a trickle.

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 9 AC:14
Saturday December 4th, 2021 4:49:04 AM
As the initial surge of adrenalin ebbed, her back began to throb and seize up. Repeatedly she paused to flex and stretch and whilst that helped, it only helped a bit. Upon seeing the trap her initial thought was to negate it. The thought of being caught again did not appeal. However, it also occurred to her that they might use this location to base a trap. Knowing that the rocks and logs would have to be toppled meant someone had to topple them. Even so, catching the elusive creatures would be challenging.

"What do you think?" She enquired as she pointed at the deadfall. "Do we negate the threat or leave it standing so that, if need be, we can stake it out in the hope of catching a Dark Fey?" She considered the matter further.

[Torrynashkabbeth HP:5/9]

"I'm not sure though, that I'd be comfortable with leaving it. What if someone else chances this route and is attacked before we can return?"

Mole; (RichP) AC 18; HP 5/11; CMD 13 d20+8=23 ;
Saturday December 4th, 2021 10:03:20 AM
Mole glances back at the scene of the others. He sees Mort fall. "Blasted kids" He says turning back towards the others. Mole moves closer to Mort and says with a raised hand "Cuir stad air bàs." With that Mort wounds stop bleeding and death is held at bay.

Casting Stablize on Mortimer (range 25 ft.)

Drack (Chris J) - hp 13/13 - AC 16
Monday December 6th, 2021 8:31:31 AM
"Let's trip it Torry. I'm not for letting these little fiends kill an unsuspecting traveler. A family in a cart wouldn't survive it. Shouldn't be too hard to figure out how to trigger it."

Drack starts heading up the hill, out of the path of the trap fall, just in case the gremlins are there.

AC 13 HP 8/8 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K d20+2=21 ; d6=2 ;
Monday December 6th, 2021 9:56:59 AM
Loryn steps back, Mole had Mortimer, and fires another ray

Hit Touch AC 21 Dmg 2

Spells
4-1st- xColor Spray, Magic Weapon
0- Detect Magic, Read Magic, Mage Hand, Message

Gnome: 1/day xDancing Lights, Prestidigitation, Ghost Sound, x-Speak with Animals
Sorcerer Ray 7/ day 30' 1d6 Cast 3

Manolo (Michael A) - HP 10/10 AC 17 d20+8=20 ;
Monday December 6th, 2021 3:34:58 PM
Manolo looks at the surroundings and agrees with Drack and Torry, looking for a way to trigger the trap as he mumbles "as if we were gremlins".

Disable Device 20

DM BatMark -- Nasty chain and a mean streak a mile wide d6=1 ; d20+5=20 ; d4+5=6 ;
Monday December 6th, 2021 8:19:43 PM
Mortimer, in danger of bleeding out, is stabilized by some combination of the shadow of his father’s disapproval and Mole’s call to the power of the earth.
Mole turns back toward the confrontation and helps keep Mortimer from succumbing to the grave.
Loryn fires another ray at the gremlin, this time striking it squarely for 2hp of damage. It squeaks in outrage.

The gremlin rounds on Big Eddie and rips a great gout of flesh from his torso with another lash of its chain. Big Eddie staggers back, screaming and bleeding profusely from the ghastly wound.

Gremlin 1: AC15 Touch AC15 -8hp
Big Eddie: -6hp

----

Torrynashkabbeth achilly weighs options for dealing with the new-found trap.
Drack advises tripping the trap, and sets off up the slope.
Manolo agrees with tripping the trap and helps Drack look for a safe means to do so.
Ash watches the proceedings in silence.

Drack and Manolo find a vine that can be used to pull a stake to trigger the trap and release the logs to fall on the gremlins’ prey. It seems perfectly mundane, if nevertheless effective. Fortunately, no gremlins are in the bushes where the end of the vine leads.

Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.) - HP: -6/8. AC:13
Monday December 6th, 2021 11:17:08 PM
A spray of Big Eddie's blood splashes across Mortimer's unconscious face.

[Meanwhile, back in the forest dreamscape ...]

Mortimer still stands by the great fire, surrounded by the darkness of the forest. His eyes are half open, mouth agape, but he doesn't appear conscious; like in the Living Wold. On the other hand, Ambrose becomes very animated. His calm demeanor erupts into haughty disdain at the accusation of being Mortimer's 'shadow of a father'!

Ambrose Margrave stomps right through the fire, as if it wasn't there, to the other side where Mortimer stands. With a meaty, palm of his mighty, left hand, he sends Mortimer to the ground, like a rag doll, with a single slap to the head. "I am NOT his father, I will NOT be insulted. I am a distant... very distant relative," he growls to the voice beyond their realm. He then looks down at Mortimer, who is still unconscious, "Get up you craven weakling!"

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 9 AC:14
Tuesday December 7th, 2021 4:38:41 AM
Torryn followed the others up the hill. If nothing else, it paid to stay together when faced with such an evasive and cunning adversary. Upon finding no gremlins lurking, ready to launch the trap, she wasn't sure whether she was relieved or disappointed.

"Once this is sprung we should head back to town, but keep our eyes open for more trickery. We can then give warning of this latest strategy."

She said no more, despite her intention to get her back seen to. Hopefully, she could find some small meaure of magical healing to soothe her aches.

Drack (Chris J) - hp 13/13 - AC 16
Tuesday December 7th, 2021 8:29:29 AM
Drack waits for Manolo to inspect the trap, and unless Manolo says that something bad will happen to him by pulling the vine, Drack makes sure the path below is clear, and pulls the vine, sending the logs rolling down the hill.

"Well, at least we weren't under that one Torry. Shall we get back, and see if anything has happened in our absence?"

Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 10/10
Tuesday December 7th, 2021 9:57:51 AM
There was some satisfaction in wasting their trap Ash thought to himself. If for no other reason than the adversary evading them.

Once done. He follows the others back to town.

AC 13 HP 8/8 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K
Tuesday December 7th, 2021 2:02:04 PM
Loryn calls for Eddie to step back and slides to the left where he can catch the gremlin without hitting Eddie and casts Color Spray

Will DC 15

Spells
4-1st- xxColor Spray, Magic Weapon
0- Detect Magic, Read Magic, Mage Hand, Message

Gnome: 1/day xDancing Lights, Prestidigitation, Ghost Sound, x-Speak with Animals
Sorcerer Ray 7/ day 30' 1d6 Cast 3

Manolo (Michael A) - HP 10/10 AC 17 d20+5=12 ; d20+5=12 ; d20+5=21 ;
Tuesday December 7th, 2021 7:13:39 PM
Manolo Tell Drack its fine.
He tries to listen to anything else after the trap was deal with.

'Is there anything strange about this', he thinks.
'What did they actually try to achieve ?' , He thinks further about their (the little trouble makers) plan.

Perception 12 (just after the trap was dealt with)
Sense Motive 12
Perception 21 ( after they start going back)

DM BatMark -- He Gets Knocked Down, He Gets Up Again d20+2=12 ; d20+7=18 ; d20+7=8 ; d20+4=7 ; d20+3=15 ; d20=1 ; d4=3 ; d4=1 ;
Tuesday December 7th, 2021 8:28:29 PM
Mortimer has an addled dream in which he is chastised by his very distant relative. Highlight to display spoiler: {Sorry about that, I glossed over the September post that elaborated on Ambrose when reading up on the backstory of the campaign.}
Mole waffles.
Loryn calls out a warning to Eddie and blasts the gremlin with another color spray.

The gremlin is clearly stunned again, eyes rolling back in its head. Eddie was out of the line of fire, but Angus got clipped by the burst. He looks at Loryn in annoyance, apparently shaking off the effects, although it badly affects his aim as he swings his club at the gremlin again. Eddie steps back up but somehow misses the stunned gremlin as well, perhaps distracted by his wounds. Agatha begs him to stay away from the gremlin, as hurt as he is.

There is a yowl from a nearby hedge and a tawny streak flies out and knocks the gremlin over. Zerksies, Agatha’s cat, has entered the fray, and draws blood from the gremlin. (3hp of damage)

Gremlin 1: AC10 Touch AC10 -11hp, prone, stunned
Big Eddie: -6hp
----

Manolo lets Drack know the trap is safe to spring, and looks for anything strange.
Torrynashkabbeth struggles painfully up the hill and suggests heading back to town once the trap is sprung.
Drack carefully springs the trap once investigations are done.
Ash takes satisfaction in ruining the trap and is ready to head back.

Having satisfied yourselves that the trap was mundane rather than fey-powered, the party is able to head back toward town. As you approach the outskirts, a couple of villagers hustle past, exclaiming something about fey, and blasts of colored magic, and the world going mad. They don’t stop to talk, and up ahead perhaps 120’ away, you can see the flickering light of some torches through the trees and hear a loud yowling.

Mole; (RichP) AC 18; HP 5/11; CMD 13 d20+2=15 ; d6=4 ;
Tuesday December 7th, 2021 8:41:58 PM
Mole sees his spell was affective on Mort, turns with a out-stretched finger "Searbhag." As the incantation is finished a green bead of liquid forms at the end of his finger and launches towards the gremlin.

Acid ray- range touch DC 15, damage 4

AC 13 HP 8/8 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K d20+2=5 ;
Wednesday December 8th, 2021 12:05:29 AM
Loryn thinks to ignore the look from Angus, but can't help himself, "Just imagine if I was real witch what might have happened" If Mole's spell did not finish the creature, Loryn sends another acidic ray at it. Somehow missing badly
Touch AC 5

Spells
4-1st- xxColor Spray, Magic Weapon
0- Detect Magic, Read Magic, Mage Hand, Message

Gnome: 1/day xDancing Lights, Prestidigitation, Ghost Sound, x-Speak with Animals
Sorcerer Ray 7/ day 30' 1d6 Cast 4

Drack (Chris J) - hp 13/13 - AC 16
Wednesday December 8th, 2021 8:41:46 AM
Drack begins walking back to town with the others, looking forward to a nice ale to soothe his irritation at the gremlins disappearance. As villagers come running past, and the sounds of the commotion ahead indicate trouble, he takes a double move, pulling his bow as part of the move.

Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 10/10
Wednesday December 8th, 2021 10:17:43 AM
Ash hears the words of the villagers, and sees the torchlight ahead. He sees Drack start running and starts following after him. The yowling nerves him up a bit, but he musters on after Drack.

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 9 AC:14 d20=11 ;
Wednesday December 8th, 2021 12:31:10 PM
Despite her injuries Torryn was not going to be left behind. What would Agratha think if she missed out on utilising her training? So it was that she unhesitatingly rushed forward to see what was unfolding. Unfettered by any armour, nor even much clothing, Torryn ran as comfortably as her back would permit. Her magic she called to readiness, should she have need of it.

[Perception: 13]

Torryn headed towards the nearest point of trouble; which seemed to be the yowling. Her Fet Spark was ready to be unleashed.

Manolo (Michael A) - HP 10/10 AC 17 d20+5=8 ;
Wednesday December 8th, 2021 7:54:18 PM
Manolo Follows Drack.
He tries to keep an eye but he worries too much about what is happening.
'What are they doing now'. he thinks about the gremlins.

Perception 8

DM BatMark -- This town’s not big enough for the nine of us d20+7=17 ; d6+6=9 ; d20+3=23 ; d20+3=23 ; 2d4=8 ;
Wednesday December 8th, 2021 8:13:57 PM
Mortimer dreams dark dreams.
Mole launches a vitriolic green beam at the stunned gremlin, burning it for 4hp of damage.
Loryn tries the same thing but his aim is thrown off by the weight of his (well-founded) sarcasm toward Angus.
Drack hears the commotion and double moves toward the sounds of trouble in the village while drawing his bow.
Ash follows Drack’s bold example, despite the hair-raising yowling.
Manolo also follows in Drack’s footsteps.
Torrynashkabbeth somehow manages to hobble gracefully forward, despite her aches and pain, fey spark at the ready.

The new arrivals now see the scene, where a bloody gremlin lies stunned on the ground, with Big Eddie and Angus looming over it, and Agatha’s cat, Zerksies, pounced on its chest. Mortimer lies nearby, motionless and covered in blood, although no more is streaming from his wounds. The wicked little gremlin is looking on its last (figuratively speaking) leg. It remains prone and stunned, although you don’t know for how long. Eddie takes the chance to step back at Agatha’s urging, although you can see he’d rather be swinging his club. Angus brings his cudgel high and smashes the last bit of life from the gremlin, just as Zerksies delivers an absolutely savage bite that rips the thing’s throat out. Angus looks around and hisses haughtily, ”Don’t go forgetting who saved us all from this vermin.” Zerksies hisses back, and Agatha chimes in, ”We won’t forget that my feline friend saved the day.” Angus gives her a venomous look in return.

Gremlin 1: dead
Big Eddie: -6hp

Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.) - HP: -6/8. AC:13
Wednesday December 8th, 2021 8:28:58 PM
[Meanwhile, in the Forest of Shadows...]

Ambrose continues to bristle in silence at Mortimer's failure at slaying the gremlin and putting himself in mortal danger. A woman emerges from the darkness. Her face is shrouded in a veil in what appears to be made from shadow itself. She pauses next to Ambrose and gently places her hand on his arm.

"Ambrose," she says.

"Yes, Lady Delores," he politely answers. "You judge the lad too harshly," she states in a calming tone. Ambrose simply replies, "Perhaps."

They both pause and watch the battle in silence. "These gremlins are quite tenacious," she remarks. "And deadly with that chain of theirs. We could have used these little bastards against the Hunters in our time," he adds. "Truly ... see how this one dispersed a riotous mob; all on its own. Controlling them would have taken some effort," Delores explains. "Hardly an effort for you, my dear," Ambrose replies with a smile. "Your lightest touch would sway a legion." "My touch wasn't that helpful in the end," she contends.

"Look at that, even while stunned, they struggle to strike the tiny beast," Delores remarks with a measure of awe. "Yes, judging by this pitiful performance, the boy didn't do so bad. In fact, he skewered the pest with his dagger quite handily," Ambrose declares with the slightest hint of satisfaction.

After a longer pause, Lady Delores interrupts the silence, "Could you please stand the lad back up? Allow him a modicum of dignity." "Yes, my dear."

Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.) - HP: -6/8. AC:13
Wednesday December 8th, 2021 9:19:55 PM

[In the real Wold ...]

Having not been given another order, Mortimer's unseen specter tirelessly continues to bring loose coils of rope over to his critically wounded and unconscious body.

Mole; (RichP) AC 18; HP 5/11; CMD 13 d20+4=11 ;
Wednesday December 8th, 2021 10:11:48 PM
Mole moves to Mort. He checks the status of the charismatic grave digger. At this point, there isn't more he can do but make sure the wounds don't open up again.

Heal check DC 11

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 9 AC:14
Thursday December 9th, 2021 6:40:23 AM
"Ugh.! Torryn groaned quietly. All that running and for what? - A small, ugly creature with its brains smeared across the ground! Well, she wasn't sorry to see that, particularly if it had had any hand to play in the trap that had hurt her and that could have done far worse. Surely though, there were more. If so, would this anger them or give them pause? It was clear that they weren't brave: their penchant for shadows and going unseen testified to that; so she hoped that they'd flee. If they didn't, she was ready and so was her spear!.

Only belatedly did she notice that 'Morty' was also lain out on the ground and looking far worse than she felt. She looked around. Surely someone could help. It certainly wasn't her! She'd be more likely to make things worse than actually heal her new friend.

Drack (Chris J) - hp 13/13 - AC 16 d20+7=22 ;
Thursday December 9th, 2021 7:49:54 AM
Drack continues to move in with bow ready, scanning the area for a threat. (perception 22) If he spots another threat, he will fire, if not he will continue to scan the area for any, knowing that there is nothing he can do for the injured.

He will wait until the appropriate time to find out what happened, and is now even more irritated that he wasn't here, and was instead playing hide and seek with the other gremlins

Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 10/10 d20+1=12 ;
Thursday December 9th, 2021 11:21:13 AM
Ash winced a bit as the gremlins head was smashed in.

He then noticed Mortimer and moved to his side. He wasn't skilled in the ways of medicine, but he was a smart enough man to know to clean up the blood and wound. He tears off some of his cloak, and douses it in water. he begins to wipe some of the blood away and see if the wound needs to be cleaned.

Heal 12

Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.) - HP: -6/8. AC:13
Thursday December 9th, 2021 7:52:40 PM
There isnt much Mortimer can do. In the Living Wold, the ground has gathered around him and started administering first aid.

In the Shadowy Forest ... Ambrose has picked Mortimer's essence up from the ground and restored him to a standing position. As Lord Ambrose and Lady Delores walk away, discussing issues among themselves, several curious and ghastly-looking hands reach out from the darkness and poke at Mortimer.

In either realm, Mortimer is unmoving and unresponsive.

Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.) - HP: -6/8. AC:13
Thursday December 9th, 2021 7:56:29 PM
[Minor Correction] ... "the group has gathered around him" ... not ground.

Manolo (Michael A) - HP 10/10 AC 17
Thursday December 9th, 2021 8:13:46 PM
Manolo is shocked for a second from the scene he notices Mortimer and rushes to help Ash.
"Don't you dare Dying !", He says loudly.

DM BatMark -- Taking his marbles and going home
Thursday December 9th, 2021 8:43:53 PM
Mortimer gets heaped with loose bits of rope as he continues his unconscious dreams, where at least his ancestors have become a bit more supportive.
Mole tends to Mortimer, and is at least successful in making sure that he doesn’t get worse.
Ash also helps Mortimer, but even cooperating with Mole, cannot improve his lot.
Manolo rushes to assist Ash in aiding Mortimer, and abjures death.
Loryn hangs back a bit, taking in the scene.
Drack scans for more gremlins, but finds none.
Torrynashkabbeth muses about your sneaky foes and hopes someone can help Mortimer.

With the fight over and no more mob, Angus turns to stalk off toward town. Zerksies leaves the dead gremlin to groom herself before cozying up to Agatha. For her part, Agatha scratches Zerksies behind the ears, gently scolds Big Eddie for getting himself hurt, and turns to thank the party. ”I’m very grateful for your help! You’d think that after all this time here, folks would have gotten used to having me around, but I guess the gremlins played on their folksy fears to turn them against me. A witch, me? Hah! Regardless, that was well done. I’m sorry about your friend,” she adds, pointing to the unconscious Mortimer. ”What will you do next? Seems like you’re the only heroes hereabouts.”

Mole; (RichP) AC 18; HP 5/11; CMD 13
Thursday December 9th, 2021 10:37:09 PM
"I've stopped the bleeding, for now." He says to Ash. "But I cannot heal him until tomorrow. We need to move him. Need ta find a wagon or cart and get him to the inn."

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 9 AC:14
Friday December 10th, 2021 5:58:48 AM
"Um, I didn't do so much." Replied Torryn. Clearly a lot had happened. The piled wood and kindling near the stake spoke volumes. The very sight of it made her angry. She glanced around at the largely dispersed crowd. there really weren't many people left at all now. Still that didn't stop her berating them - probably unfairly, but Torryn often acted on impulse and it rarely turned out to her advantage.

"So, whose idea was THAT?" She pointed vehemently and the bonfire whilst staring daggers at anyone brave enough to meet her fiery gaze. Small sparks of lightning seemed to dance through her hair. When no answer was forthcoming she muttered darkly to herself. "When I find out who it was they are going to be sorry; so very, VERY sorry."

Her wounded back was now forgotten. She felt ready to lash out at something - anything.

Drack (Chris J) - hp 13/13 - AC 16
Friday December 10th, 2021 8:10:35 AM
Still fuming from the game of hide and seek earlier, Drack looks toward Agatha. "I don't speak for everyone, but I personally plan on finding them, and removing their evil presence from this Wold."

As Mole mentions a cart or wagon, Drack once again chimes in. "We don't need a cart, I got him." Drack scoops him up from underneath his backside, doing his best not to make his injuries worse, and then turns towards the Inn. "Shall we head to the Inn? I would like a good ale, and a very lengthy tale of what exactly happened here."

Manolo (Michael A) - HP 10/10 AC 17
Friday December 10th, 2021 11:33:05 AM
Manolo keeps quiet for now.
He makes a mental note to ask what happened.
' Gremlins probably', he thinks

AC 13 HP 8/8 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K
Friday December 10th, 2021 12:31:57 PM
Loryn gives his ear a scratch and looks at Angus. I'll not be forgetting who saved the day here, worry not. Nor will i more importantly forget whose fault the trouble was to begin with.

"Angus, you should be considering yourself lucky that we are not escorting you to the cell next to the Ogre at the keep. You just set yourself as judge jury and executioner to burn one of our own at the stake." The gnome cosks his head and then shakes it, "actually, you know what. I am going to do just that. Angus, you walking on your own or being dragged."

Loryn raises a finger and readies to cast Color Spray Angus makes a move other than heading to town in custody and Loryn blasts him

Spells
4-1st- xxColor Spray, Magic Weapon
0- Detect Magic, Read Magic, Mage Hand, Message

Gnome: 1/day xDancing Lights, Prestidigitation, Ghost Sound, x-Speak with Animals
Sorcerer Ray 7/ day 30' 1d6 Cast 4

Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 10/10
Friday December 10th, 2021 1:21:39 PM
Ash looks from Drack slinging Mortimer to his shoulder, to his own weak arms and lets out a soft giggle. "Sure...yes, the Inn. Lead the way."

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 9 AC:14
Friday December 10th, 2021 2:38:22 PM
Torryn was all for heading to the inn. Normally she wasn't one for drink, but now it seemed like a good idea. That notion evaporated upon hearing Loryn's words. Her ire was abruptly turned on Angus. She marched over to him and pointed emphatically with her spear towards the jail.

"Move!" She wasn't giving him an option. he may have been more than twice her size, but she showed no trepidation in ordering him to move. In fact, all he had to do was say or do anything that could be construed even vaguely as refusing and she would attack. Again the speaks flew through her hair. most in the village knew that Torryn rarely lost her temper, but when she did, she was best avoided.

Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.) - HP: -6/8. AC:13
Friday December 10th, 2021 9:02:50 PM
A spark of consciousness wakes. Mortimer finds himself floating above the ground looking down at his body. His friends are all gathered around. This is an odd sensation. Suddenly he feels a pull and quickly he is yanked into body by way of his mouth.

All is dark! Wait a second, there is a speck of light in the distance. What is it ... a fire? Yes, it's the raging camp fire in the Shadow Forest. There he is, he sees Mortimer standing by that fire; looking into it. Here we go again, he feels a strong pull into his mouth.

All is dark once again. Mortimer can now sense his body. He can feel his feet on the ground and a cool breeze. The moon rises above the horizon and now a host of stars light up the night's sky. As soon as his eyes adjust, Mortimer begins to recognize his surroundings ... it's the graveyard and the back side of the Chapel of Wardd of the First Moon in Windhorn Hamlet.

He hears a faint shoveling sound. He turns to see that it's him, Mortimer, a slightly younger version of himself. He remembers this scene ... it's when he first arrived in the Hamlet a little over 2.5 years ago. He was attempting to rob this recently buried grave. He was hungry and copperless. If there wasn't any trinkets buried with the recently departed, he could a least buy a meal with the two gold pieces placed on its eyes.

Now WAIT! Mortimer remembers what's about to happen next! The Priestess of Wardd, Noma Sparklescheme, is about to catch the younger Mortimer in the act. When the priestess asked what he was doing, the younger Mortimer answered with a nonsensical lie about cleaning up the grave site. With the benefit of hindsight, it was obvious now that she saw right through his lie. Noma then offered the younger Mortimer a meal. For payment, he would help out with the First Moon Service the next day. He made a promise that he would.

Noma notices a wound on the younger Mortimer's arm. She immediately administers a healing touch. Mortimer feels a sudden painful sting, from her touch, that causes him to flinch. The pain quickly fades; and so, too, does his wound. Noma thinks this is quite odd, but then dismisses it for some other reason.

Immediately the scene begins to fade into mist for Mortimer. However he recalls that he made good on his promise the next day and Noma eventually offers him the gravedigger job. I think we all know how that turned out.

DM BatMark -- OK Corral
Friday December 10th, 2021 9:22:09 PM
Mortimer dreams the dreams of the dead.
Mole suggests moving Mortimer to the inn so he can be healed tomorrow.
Loryn threatens Angus, who stops, if only to sneer and argue.
Manolo quietly suspects gremlins.
Drack announces his plans to hunt down the gremlins as he hefts Mortimer for the walk to the inn.
Ash feels spindly compared to Drack and smilingly agrees to follow to the inn.
Torrynashkabbeth is humble about the whole hero thing, and angry about the witch burning mob, which has melted away into the night at this point. All except Angus, who becomes the focus of her ire.

Angus stops and turns back to the group, putting his fingers to his mouth to emit an eerie whistle. He says, ”Why should I go to jail, did I raise a finger to hurt anyone? Are you going to send half the village to jail, just for wanting to burn a witch who is bringing back the bad times? I think not. Now, we will be going, and I advise you to mind your own business, if you know what is good for you.” From the treeline, you can see four shadowy man shapes emerge, cudgels in hand. He starts to back toward them.

Agatha chimes in tiredly, ”Enough for one night. There is no need for further violence, I think. By the light of day, folk will be more reasonable, I hope. And most of them probably learned a lesson that will stick with them. Let’s see to your friend, and see what the day brings.” Big Eddie stands by her, still looking a little woozy.

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 9 AC:14 d20=13 ;
Saturday December 11th, 2021 7:29:20 AM
She couldn't help herself. It was stupid, but she did it anyway. Angus turned and as he stepped away, Torryn thrust the butt of her spear out low to trip him.

"Oops." She said with poorly feigned concern. His attitude stank. That had been enough to precipitate her response. She just hoped that his embarrassment at falling (face first) would undermine his credibility as a leader of thugs. No doubt she'd be chastised (again) for her impulsive nature, but at that moment, she really didn't care at all. Let those other shadowy figures approach! let them TRY to attack her! she had her magic ready and would gladly take on all five at once! yes, the sparks were definitely flying through her hair now.

[OOC: There are no adjustments to that roll. I believe that there my be minuses to completing a Trip action, but am unsure. However, Angus had his back to her, so is denied any dexterity and armour effectively.]

AC 13 HP 8/8 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K d20+2=17 ;
Saturday December 11th, 2021 11:49:55 AM
Loryn looks over to the trees, his low light vision sweeping across the area as he sends the Dancing Lights to lend their brilliance to the shapes. "Roaches and rats hide in the shadows you pathetic retch of a human." Perception 17

"Not half of the village, just those that brought it to this level. The leader of the mob. The complete moron that was so easily fooled by gremlins, the blood thirsty ghoul that wanted blood. You Angus. I will be be putting forth as much effort as necessary to force you away, send you away or remove you. The dark on you is the bad times that have come again."

Loryn holds the spell but is still at the Ready to cast if Angus or one of his pets comes at him

Spells
4-1st- xxColor Spray, Magic Weapon
0- Detect Magic, Read Magic, Mage Hand, Message

Gnome: 1/day xDancing Lights, Prestidigitation, Ghost Sound, x-Speak with Animals
Sorcerer Ray 7/ day 30' 1d6 Cast 4

Mole; (RichP) AC 18; HP 5/11; CMD 13 d20+8=18 ;
Saturday December 11th, 2021 9:38:40 PM
"Alright carry him, but be gentle." He says to Drack.

"That pile of troll dung's the reason I don't care much for the surface dwellers." He says aloud but mostly to himself referring to Angus and his crew.

"Not fooled." Mole says. "Taking advantage of a crisis."

Drack (Chris J) - hp 13/13 - AC 16
Monday December 13th, 2021 8:29:19 AM
Drack turns to look at the confrontation between Loryn and Angus, but Continues to hold onto Mortimer. He prepares to quickly put him down and move into the fray if necessary, depending on how it plays out.

Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 10/10
Monday December 13th, 2021 9:23:39 AM
Ash regards Torryn with a measure of respect in the way she speaks to Angus. The trip just added to it... but Ash didn't want tensions to spoil them with the town.

If Angus moves to attack, Angus casts Charm Person on Angus , " my friend, why not head home and get some rest before more gremlins show up."

Will Save 16

Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.) - HP: -6/8. AC:13
Monday December 13th, 2021 10:26:35 AM
Mortimer feels a jostling and a vertigo sensation. 'I'm feelin' rather tipsy! Am I sloshed?'

DM BatMark -- Can't We All Just Get Along?
Monday December 13th, 2021 8:19:29 PM
Torrynashkabbeth impetuously tries to trip Angus as he stalks off, with an unconvincing ‘oops’ to go along with the spear butt.
Loryn adds his contempt to Torryn’s for Angus and his thugs, but holds onto his spell for now.
Mole suggests carrying Mortimer gently, and ripostes Angus’ retort.
Ash looks with newfound respect at Torryn for her confrontational stance, but hopes to avoid tension with the town.
Manolo waits to see what happens next.
Drack watches the confrontation but holds on Mortimer.
Mortimer dreams of riding on a drunken donkey, or riding drunkenly on a donkey, or both.

Angus manages to avoid tripping on Torryn’s spear butt and continues to walk away. You may make a DC 15 perception or sense motive check Highlight to display spoiler: { Angus twitched his cudgel slightly like he might preempt the trip with a strike of his own, but appears to have restrained himself. (OOC: Note that a trip combat maneuver will provoke an attack of opportunity unless you have the right feat or ability.)}

Angus reaches the treeline and enters the shadows, his four companions silently fading into the woods with him. Agatha lets out a breath, and comments, ”Did I hear someone suggesting moving to the inn? I think that’s a grand idea. First round is on me, if you’ll let me and Eddie accompany you.”

Mole; (RichP) AC 18; HP 5/11; CMD 13
Monday December 13th, 2021 9:42:13 PM
Mole follows Drack to get Mortimer settled in. After ensuring his wounds do not open again, he comes down to the common room.

With everyone sitting together, he says. "That Angus' gonna be a problem." He takes a drink.

AC 13 HP 8/8 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K d20+2=15 ;
Monday December 13th, 2021 9:55:47 PM
Loryn eyes the human and perks an ear at Mole's comment. "They are not all bad my dwarf friend." He spied Angus's reaction, but it was understandable, possibly pure reaction without thought. The new member of the crew Drak would probably have better insight on that. Agatha's voice breaks his thoughts and the gnome smiles at her, "An excellent suggestion Agatha and you and Eddie would be most welcome." Loryn heads back and finds a spot in the common room. Unable to do anything for Mortimer, he waits for the news from Mole.
"Aye, that he is Mole. We are just going to have to keep our wits about us then. Him and the gremlins that scampered off. We got one of them, but what 2 got away."

"Town militia needs to be set in the night. Hopefully that'll keep the mob justice at bay with something else to do. In the morning we should stop by the keep and report in."

Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.) - HP: -6/8. AC:13
Monday December 13th, 2021 11:50:19 PM
'This all feels very strange. I feels like I'm on the butcher's hook ... but it smells like my room. Feels like my bed; a bit too soft. Am I drunk? Am I hurt? At best I can tell, I've been in the dark for weeks. Feels that way, it does! Where's Priesty Noma? She'd fix me right up. What about Janna at the Apothecary? They have potions and drugs ... and other drugs! I have money, I'm good for it ... Swears! HELP!!'

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 9 AC:14
Tuesday December 14th, 2021 5:29:31 AM
She'd missed, but perhaps that was for the best. perhaps. It just didn't feel like that right then. Still angry, but less so than before Torryn turned, as contemptuously as she could, away from Angus and his cronies to see Drack carrying Morty towards the inn. Her anger evaporated as worry clutched at her heart. her own injuries forgotten, she trotted over to catch up with them.

Once seated, she pitched in on the subject of Angus. "He won't be an issue; not with my spear up his backside. Still, he's not important right now. Has anyone gone to fetch Noma? I mean, she might be busy what with all that kerfuffle out there, but poor Morty needs some help." Torryn rarely partook of alcohol, but just then she had an inclination to do so. She felt that Mole had the right perspective, but nonetheless offered to go find the priestess. "Is everyone else alright?" She enquired, so that she might accuraretly recount all hgurts to Noma.

Drack (Chris J) - hp 13/13 - AC 16 d20+7=25 ;
Tuesday December 14th, 2021 8:17:25 AM
Drack Carries Mortimer to the Inn, and lays him down, leaving him for Mole to tend to. He then proceeds to go down to the common room, grab an ale, and sit with the others.

"Loryn, Angus was about ready to take a swing at Torry, possibly even before the trip attempt(perception 25). If we hadn't all been there, including big Eddie here, I think he and his friends may have tried to kill everyone. I think the odds changed his mind. I haven't been here long, but what are the odds that Angus would work with Gremlins if it suited his needs? On top of that, two of the Gremlins got away from you, but we were playing hide and seek with at least two more after they tried to kill us with a rock and log slide. We did set off another one that they had set up and ready to go farther down the road. There are at least four. I would guess more."

"I don't know Nona, but Mortimer and big Eddie here could use a little fix up, if that's her thing."

"Why don't you all give a quick run down of what happened here, and then we have to figure out what we are doing next. After the hide and seek match, we are gonna have to face them face to face. We will lose a hit and run battle. They are quick, and can seemingly disappear into thin air when hunted."

Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 10/10
Tuesday December 14th, 2021 12:36:05 PM
Ash pats Torryn on the shoulder, knowing full well she was ready to blow at Angus. He follows her and the others back to Mortimer, but not being one too knowledgable about healing, he just stands by and assists when asked,

Manolo (Michael A) - HP 10/10 AC 17
Tuesday December 14th, 2021 6:46:25 PM
Manolo goes to sleep.
He puts his dagger at a hands reach, If anything happened once again he wanted to have some kind of an advantage.
'They will always surprise us', he thinks.

DM BatMark -- Inn for a pound d20+10=29 ;
Tuesday December 14th, 2021 8:02:29 PM
Mortimer dreams of being in the hurt locker.
Mole helps settle Mortimer in and joins the others in the common room.
Loryn admits that not all humans are bad, and looks forward to reporting Angus to the keep.
Ash accompanies the others and tries to assist where he can.
Manolo goes to sleep with his dagger nearby.
Drack carries Mortimer into the inn, recaps recent events, and starts making a plan.
Torrynashkabbeth lets worry for her friend overcome her anger at Angus. She offers to go fetch the priestess for healing.

Agatha fetches her cloak and satchel from where her tormentors left them at the scene of the attempted burning, before accompanying the party back to the inn with Zerskies in tow. Once there, she opens her knapsack and reveals some herbs and poultices, and offers to try to help Mortimer with her herbal knowledge. She putters away for a while, rubbing, humming, sniffing, checking, and so forth, until she comes to a stop and pronounces that Mortimer is going to be just fine. Mortimer’s color begins to return to normal, his eyelids flutter, and he groggily stirs. She shushes him, tucks him in, and suggests that you let him rest until morning. (Mortimer is disabled, but will wake with 1hp in the morning if allowed to rest undisturbed.) She spends a few more minutes patching up Big Eddie before sending him on his way.

She then declares it is time for that drink and leads the way to the common room, where she buys the promised round for the party. She is quite interested to hear the recounting of your various encounters, and able to offer some information of her own. ”Aye, gremlins they are. I’ve seen signs hereabouts, but could never prove my suspicions until now. Tricksie little beggars, the lot of them. What do you propose to do next?”

Mole; (RichP) AC 18; HP 5/11; CMD 13
Tuesday December 14th, 2021 11:49:45 PM
Mole drinks his ale. He doesn't know the group's next move. He listens to the suggestions of the others.

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 9 AC:14
Wednesday December 15th, 2021 6:26:21 AM
What to do? It was a vexing question. She had no ready answer, so instead decided to focus on the more immediate problems: injuries. If they were to fight these gremlins then they'd need Morty -and herself - at full health ideally. Torryn took a swift gulp of cider and shuddered. It was strong stuff.

"I'm going to see if I can scare up some healing for Morty. I appreciate what you've done Agatha, but I think we'll need him sooner rather than later. He's also a lot cleverer than me, so might have a cunning plan." She smiled at that last comment. She considered practically everyone in the group smarter than herself. That wasn't to say she was stupid or a dizzy blonde: she wasn't. It was simply that good ideas came less frequently for her than they seemed to for others. It didn't worry her. She could dance, dance better than they could.

Drack (Chris J) - hp 13/13 - AC 16
Wednesday December 15th, 2021 8:44:51 AM
"Not quite sure what to do Agatha. I tried tracking and hunting them after they tried to kill us on the road, but they seemed to disappear into thin air. What do any of you know about them and their capabilities? can they just disappear, or was it some sort of trick I couldn't see through?"

"only other thought is Angus. You've been here quite awhile Agatha, and you as well Eddie. Were those four shapes coming out of the woods townsfolk, or were they gremlins? If he is in league with them, we have a place to start. Beyond that, I'm not quite sure. I'm thinking I'm not the smartest person sitting round this table."

Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 10/10 d20+9=13 ; d20+9=15 ;
Wednesday December 15th, 2021 11:21:04 AM
Ash thinks back to anything he ever learned about Gremlins. He might not have focused on them alone, but his time in the library might have supplied some knowledge.

"Agatha, are you the most knowledgable in the area when it comes to gremlins... if not, who then?"

Ash will supply whatever knowledge he has.

Knowledge Arcana 13
knowledge Nature 15

AC 13 HP 8/8 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K
Wednesday December 15th, 2021 4:46:53 PM
Post got eaten

Loryn is happy to have a drink and reminds the group that each of them has a healing potion, though he suggests not using any on Mortimer as Mole can heal the man in the morning. on the subject of Gremlins, Loryn reiterates that the town milita needs to be called up and night patrols need to happen. Mutiple groups of 4 at least.

Loryn also asks the party to keep their eyes open for any townsfolk that seem to have a recent wound, Loryn is not sold on the crossbow having been fired at a gremlin. Angus and his ilk may be taking advantage of the gremlins as Mole noted.

Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.) - HP: -6/8. AC:13
Wednesday December 15th, 2021 7:26:50 PM
As Mortimer begins to stir, he can sense he is in a calm and safe place. Agatha's gentle persuasion was all he needed to ease what worries he had.

[Meanwhile, in the Shadow Forest...]

Mortimer is again beside the roaring campfire in the clearing, surrounded by shadows and darkness. This time however, like in the Living Wold, Mortimer slumbers tucked away in his bed. Ambrose stands nearby, observing Mortimer as he sleeps. He can sense the shadows receding away from the clearing. With a snap of his fingers, the fire dies down to glowing, smoldering embers. He simply turns and walks away into the darkness; leaving Mortimer to his sleep.

DM BatMark -- Maybe one more for the road?
Wednesday December 15th, 2021 8:32:21 PM
Mortimer rests easy and dreams of Ambrose walking away into darkness.
Mole drinks his ale and waits to hear what others suggest.
Loryn opines that the guard needs to redouble its efforts, and wonders about potential links between townsfolk and the gremlins.
Ash wracks his brain for information about gremlins, and asks Agatha for her thoughts.
Manolo
Drack queries what folks know about gremlins, and ponders whether Angus is in cahoots with the gremlins.
Torrynashkabbeth isn’t sure what to do long term, but knows Mortimer needs healing.

Torryn rises to go look for a healer, but pauses at least long enough to hear what Ash and Agatha have to say. Ash is able to identify the slain gremlin as an Erinat, a nasty piece of work that can disguise itself as a small human, and use magical powers and trickery to cause discord and infighting. With enough time, and working together as a group, they can bestow a curse upon a living creature. Agatha chimes in to add that the powers of fey are as varied as you can imagine, but that many of them are resistant to damage caused by weapons not made of cold iron. They all have magical powers of some kind, including things like the ability to instantly transport themselves short distances, the ability to disguise themselves as Ash noted, and the like. It really just depends on which kinds you encounter. She notes that Zerksies seems to be able to sniff them out sometimes, despite them being so hard to track by sight alone. ”Did you find any clues in your other encounter with the gremlins that might help ferret them out?”

Manolo (Michael A) - HP 10/10 AC 17
Wednesday December 15th, 2021 8:39:16 PM
Manolo sleeps soundly.

Mole; (RichP) AC 18; HP 5/11; CMD 13
Wednesday December 15th, 2021 10:35:07 PM
Mole nods his head towards Torryn when Loryn tells he can heal Mort. "Don't worry Lass, the gravedigger'll be just fine come sunrise."

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 9 AC:14
Thursday December 16th, 2021 7:42:19 AM
Torryn leant into Mole and confided in him.

"Are you sure? I just thought getting him well sooner would be better than later." She shrugged and then regretted it. Her back still hurt. "And I was going to ask if she could help me too. I got clobbered in a Earing-Rat trap."

Drack (Chris J) - hp 13/13 - AC 16
Thursday December 16th, 2021 8:25:58 AM
Drack gives a summation of the occurence with the log trap, the chase through the brush, and the sudden disappearance of the gremlins and their tracks.

"I can't be sure how many there were, but I would guess at least two. I know they were actually there, because I wounded one with an arrow, and was able to track blood with their tracks. I can't figure out a way to hunt them when we don't know where they come from, and they can teleport away."

Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 10/10
Thursday December 16th, 2021 9:06:00 AM
Ash listens as Drack retells the story of the gremlins and the traps they found. He looks to Agatha to see her reaction of Drack's story and if she has anything to add to it,

AC 13 HP 8/8 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K
Thursday December 16th, 2021 9:25:18 AM
Loryn grabs a piece of fruit and some bread with jam and listens to Drak. there was not much there to go on. "For a lack of anything else, I think snooping about the woods where you guys encountered them and those traps is a fine place as any. They could have set those to guard their place...." the gnome takes a sniff of the jam and seems to ponder for a bit even as his mouth keeps going on a different thought, "No that doesn't make sense. The only reason you went up into the woods is because they sprung the deadfall. Pretty stupid to invite you to the hidden lair right?" his eyes light up, "Honey" looking about he gestures to the jam, "There's honey in it. Never mind unimportant."

"Agatha, can you recall Ezra wearing this?" and he produces the magic ring from his pocket. We know something about what it can do, Ezra gave it to us after the fire and he believes it to no longer work, but that it was magical. SO have you seen him with this in say the last month or so or just before Grog's party?"

Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.) - HP: -6/8. AC:13
Thursday December 16th, 2021 8:29:52 PM
Mortimer has delve deep in his slumber. So alone and vulnerable. Anyone with a grudge could certainly take advantage of this moment. If would be effortless to do harm to young Mortimer and he would be powerless to stop it. One could sit there, at the foot of his bed, and consider the countless ways to exterminate the poor lad at their leisure.

Sleeping beauty seems a little uneasy now.

I mean, it would be sooo easy. You could just kill him straight out ... with his own weapon. Your pick: sickle, dagger ... even the broken crossbow bolt from Ballo's murder. One could consider all sorts of creative ways to slay the young man good and dead ... really dead ... so very dead! The possibilities are endless.

Mortimer quietly mutters from his sleep, "nooooo..."

Oh well, just a thought. Mortimer can't wait to wake in the morning. Being conscious right now would feel very good to Mortimer. Especially after what seems like weeks have passed since he fell under. He hopes everyone else is doing alright. That's what being a hero is all about.

DM BatMark -- Somebody Get Me A Doctor
Thursday December 16th, 2021 8:49:17 PM
Mortimer dreams dark thoughts, but looks forward to waking in the morning, if he is so lucky.
Mole reassures Torryn that Mort will get healed.
Manolo sleeps soundly.
Drack summarizes recent events, including the gremlins running off before teleporting away after one was wounded.
Ash listens to the Drack’s tale and watches for a reaction.
Loryn ponders jam, honey, and where the gremlins might have gone. He asks Agatha about Ezra’s magical ring.
Torrynashkabbeth wants to be sure that Mort will be ok, and also needs healing herself.

Agatha responds to Loryn’s inquiry about Ezra’s ring, ”I can’t say that I ever noticed it, although I could easily have missed it. As far as the gremlins go, they must have a lair somewhere nearby. You say you chased them a bit before they teleported. Which way were they going up until then? That might give some clue where to start looking. And if you’re going to hunt them as Drack suggests, you might be able to use these.” With that, she opens her satchel again and pulls out 20 sling bullets made from an unusual-looking metal, and a dagger made of the same. She offers them to you for use in your quest.

Around that time, you notice that Zerksies is not around, just before hearing an insistent meowing outside the common room door. The door swings open, and Noma from Wardd’s chapel hustles in, looking like she was roused from bed. ”Agatha, what’s gotten into that cat of yours…oh.” She looks at Agatha’s disheveled appearance and the party’s motley condition, and inquires, ”Are you needing Wardd’s blessing, then? And hey, where is Mortimer?”

Drack (Chris J) - hp 13/13 - AC 16
Friday December 17th, 2021 8:19:29 AM
Drack will reach over and accept the weapons, which he assumes are cold iron, as Agatha stated hurt them more

He briefly thinks on what she said regarding starting the hunt near where he last lost them. He personally considers it an unnecessary risk, on their part, to attack others close to their home. However, it is a possibility, and they have nowhere else to begin.

Drack reaches over and accepts the weaponry from Agatha, which he assumes is cold iron based upon her words. "Thank you, I believe that once our friends are healed up, we should go scour that area. Perhaps there are clues or more to be found"

Drack is unfamiliar with the woman being brought in by Zerksies, but responds to her obvious question. "Mortimer is up in bed. He was near death, but he is stabil. Torry here had a tree dropped on her, Mole is wounded, and big eddie got tore up by a gremlin."

AC 13 HP 8/8 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K
Friday December 17th, 2021 9:22:14 AM
Loryn nods, it was a long shot, and he puts the ring away. "Noma of Wardd, welcome indeed and several of our fine friends are in fact in need of blessings." The gnome lifts his drink in a small salute as Drack tallies up the wounds

"Noma, if you would see to Mortimer first so he can join us for some hot food, fire and drinks."

"Well as funs as stomping blindly about the woods seeing how many times the gremlins can ambush us and disappear sounds. Let's call that plan C. Plan A is to enjoy some time right here figuring out which pie is the best pie and what is the best drink to go with it"

Spells
4-1st- xxColor Spray, Magic Weapon
0- Detect Magic, Read Magic, Mage Hand, Message

Gnome: 1/day xDancing Lights, Prestidigitation, Ghost Sound, x-Speak with Animals
Sorcerer Ray 7/ day 30' 1d6 Cast 4

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 9 AC:14
Friday December 17th, 2021 9:44:46 AM
"I'll take you to Morty." Torryn offered. She had her Fey Spark; so wasn't unduly worried about acquiring any of the sling bullets. It wasn't important; at least not just then. She expected she think a bit more clearly once her own hurts were eased. Currently it seemed to her that were they to get close to the Gremlin's lair, that might induce them to appear. Yes, they'd attack, but at least they'd have something to fight, rather than mere shadows. She resolved to add her insights - such as they were - once Morty was up and about.

Manolo (Michael A) - HP 10/10 AC 17
Friday December 17th, 2021 10:26:49 AM
Manolo wakes up after while.
' Is it noon already', he thinks as he goes to meet everyone.

Ooc : didn't post yesterday due to illnesses

Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 10/10
Friday December 17th, 2021 1:01:48 PM
Ash nods when the blessing is offered. Better safe than sorry he thinks. Hopefully it helped Manolo.

Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.) - HP: -6/8. AC:13
Friday December 17th, 2021 2:27:05 PM
Mortimer, in his sleep, begins to softly mutter, ”it’s coming up, it’s coming up, it’s coming up … it’s there!”

DM BatMark -- I Got Better!
Friday December 17th, 2021 8:58:32 PM
Mortimer mutters about gorillas in his sleep.
Mole sits quietly.
Loryn welcomes Noma, and prefers pie and drink over pursuing gremlins in the woods for the moment.
Ash accepts Noma’s offer of a blessing.
Manolo wakes up and inquires about the time.
Drack accepts the weapons from Agatha and confirms that they are cold iron.
Torrynashkabbeth offers to lead Noma to Mortimer, and thinks about where to fight the gremlins best.

Agatha agrees that now is not the time for the party to be rushing out to hunt the gremlins, she was thinking of the future. ”As Loryn suggests, it is time to eat, drink, nurse our wounds, and rejoice in the simple joy of being alive. Noma asks any who are wounded to accompany her to Mortimer’s room, where she checks him over, nods approvingly at Agatha’s handiwork, and says a prayer to Wardd. A pulse of warm, blue light radiates from her holy symbol, bathing you in a healing glow. (You each regain up to 9 hp of damage as the positive energy washes over you.) Mortimer is fully restored to health, which seems to please Noma greatly. ”I didn’t have you dig all those graves just so you could lie in one yourself! Now, let’s repair once again to the common room to celebrate this reunion!” With that, Noma leads the way back downstairs, where a cheery fire lights the room. As you gather, whether in conversation or contemplation, you each are struck by how much has passed in recent days, and how much you have learned. Fighting tricks, insights in magic, woodland lore, and more. It is all so much clearer now. And you can soon put this newfound knowledge to good use, right here in Windhorn Hamlet and its environs. But not tonight–tonight is for relaxing and enjoying the company of your newfound friends…

(OOC: For your recent exploits, fighting gremlins, saving local notables, and such, you each gain enough XP to reach 2000 XP, and may increase your PCs to 2nd level. Nicely done!)

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 9 AC:14
Saturday December 18th, 2021 4:35:14 AM
Torryn beamed with delight at the sudden disappearance of her hurts. "Thank you!" She gushed to Noma and then bent to warp Mortimer in an embrace even before he had the chance to stand. She released him almost as quickly and took a step back to chide him.

"Don't do that again. I was worried." However, her stern expression was fleeting and quickly replaced with a warm smile. I think we should present you to the rest - they're downstairs." She explained.

Mole; (RichP) AC 18; HP 18/18; CMD 14
Saturday December 18th, 2021 9:42:06 AM
Mole watches the priest of Wardd come down with the newly rejuvenated kids. "Glad ta see your up an about." he say to Mortimer.

Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.) - HP: -6/8. AC:13
Saturday December 18th, 2021 8:05:18 PM
The sudden sting of positive energy on his wounds wakes him up immediately. As the burn fades, he pulls the bandages away to reveal his wounds are healed. After the initial disorientation of finding himself back in his room, he declares with a sigh of relief, "You're all such a welcome sight! The last thing I remember, I was havin' a kerfuffle with a wicked, li'l bum-muppet!"

After Torryn's chiding, he answers, "Lesson learned."

As he makes his way down to the common room, his stomach begins to grumble again. He hopes there is plenty of drink and red meat on hand; bloodier the better.

He takes a seat near Mole and replies, "Glad to be up! How did it turn out?" Mortimer quickly scans the room, "Is everyone alright? Is that gremlin dead?"

Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.): hp 15/15. ac 13
Saturday December 18th, 2021 8:08:23 PM
Adjusting HPs in the Name Bar.

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 17/17 AC:15
Sunday December 19th, 2021 5:09:31 AM
Torryn skipped down to the common room, all smiles. The surge of curative energy had bolstered her spirits as much as her flesh. She sat down next to the others.

"You know, I think I'm finally getting it; well, some of it anyway. Oh, I mean the lessons. The lessons my Dad makes me go to. With Agratha. No, not AGATHA - the old halfling woman at the East end of the village. Hmm.....I'm still not very good at all that meditation stuff, but some of the other bits are kind of making sense."

OOC: Amended the title bar - hopefully.

Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.): hp:15/15. ac:13
Monday December 20th, 2021 11:28:19 AM
More thoughts arise as he shakes the cobwebs loose between his ears.

"Has anyone seen to Minerva since Ballo's death? They were friends, she may be in bad sorts."

DM BatMark -- Minerva
Monday December 20th, 2021 7:36:18 PM
You have occasionally seen Minerva puttering about during the evening, although she has not been as present and cheery as usual. Your supposition regarding her reaction to Ballo's death may well explain her downcast mien.

Manolo (Michael A) - HP 10/10 AC 17
Monday December 20th, 2021 9:12:05 PM
Manolo enjoys the food and drink.
"Today we feast and heal ourselves to be ready for whatever tomorrow brings", he says and toasts.

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 17/17 AC:15
Tuesday December 21st, 2021 6:20:57 AM
Torryn was not a great one for feasting. She was far more of a nibbler. She was though, in good spirits and gladly partook of what was offered, albeit nothing like as heartily as some. After eating she helped Minerva with the cleaning and clearing away and took the time to give her a comforting hug. Words could alter little, but the empathy of a good hug could help heal many wounds. At least, that's what he mother said.

DM BatMark -- Minerva
Tuesday December 21st, 2021 7:18:47 AM
Minerva is silently appreciative of Torryn's sympathy. She seems deep in thought, as if trying to make a decision, but does not speak of it yet.

Stowe-is-in-the-Wold d20=7 ; d20=13 ; d20+7=8 ;
Tuesday December 21st, 2021 11:44:12 PM
OOC:Stowe has been living in the village and staying at Minerva's for most of the past two years, so some of you may have seen her around. She's typically kept to herself and been too busy working to make many close friends.

A dark-haired woman sits at a table at Minerva's and nurses a tankard of ale that she's held most of the evening. She's dressed over-casually in clothes one might wear around her house, or even to bed, quite out of place in public. Although, since she's boarding here it almost is her living room, in a sense. She sits with a thousand-yard stare, not really paying attention to much, up until the bloodied Mortimer is carried right past her table. This snaps her out of her reverie, Wasn't that the gravedigger? as a group of brave and slightly disheveled adventurers wanders in. She thinks she even recognizes some of them, and she begins to listen in on their conversation.

She overhears some tidbits, Hunting gremlins? Perilous battle in the woods? Cold Iron and the fey? Before she fully knows what she's doing, Stowe finishes her drink and approaches the table, just as the formerly wounded man ambles back in. She only had the one tankard of ale, but the room spins a little as she stands to her full height a bit under 6 feet. She looks down at the table and starts to speak, "Hello. I'm Stowe. I..." She pauses, her dusky, freckled complexion turning a little rosy, possibly due to a dawning awareness of her pajama-clad state and the ridiculousness of approaching these brave adventurers. "Well, I'd like to help, if I can."

OOC: I figured I'd roll some practice dice, since it is my first post. Hi everyone!

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 17/17 AC:15
Wednesday December 22nd, 2021 6:53:48 AM
Torryn smiled up at Stowe and it was definitely up. The pretty, blonde half-elf was over a half foot shorter.
"Hey Stowie, I'm Torryn. Well, it's Torrynashkabbeth Silvara actually, but no one ever calls me that except when I'm in trouble." Torryn had a bad habit of adding "-ie" to everyone's name. Thus Mortimer became Morty and Drack became Drackie. It tended to annoy some people, but for the most part she was blissfully ignorant of the fact, mainly because few had the heart to tell smiling, upbeat girl not to do it.

"Of course you can help. The more hand, the better, but I must warn you that these Gremmies are nasty." Incongruously, she finished that statement with another winning smile, but that was because she was still elated at having her own hurts eliminated and at seeing Mortiner so well once more.

[OOC: Welcome to the team!]

Stowe-is-in-the-Wold
Wednesday December 22nd, 2021 9:50:38 AM
Stowe seems to shy from the girl's bright smile and touches her own face self-consciously. "Thanks, uh, Torrie...? I've seen you around before, you're so pretty and bright you're hard to miss." She looks a little embarrassed she said that out loud. She's probably a few years older than some of the young ones at the table, for a human at least. Maybe 30, maybe a year or two less than that.

"I can help you fight though. You probably know the past year or two I've been cooking at the Hearthfire, but I used to guard caravans on the North Road up to Red Hills and down south to Plateau City." She looks down at her outfit, realizing how incongruous it might seem. "I'm kind of between jobs right now though." she says, a little sadly.

"Can you tell me more about your adventures?"

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 17/17 AC:15
Thursday December 23rd, 2021 9:37:25 AM
"I don't know if I'd call them 'adventures' as such." Torryn replied, her smile as bright as ever. It masked her embarrassment well; she really couldn't recall Stowe at all. She wasn't a good dancer. That assumption wasn't made out of any sense of maliciousness. Torryn simply felt that had Stowe been a good dancer, she would have remembered her.

"I'm doing what I can, but I'm just a dancer, really, but - well, we have seen a fair amount of trouble lately -what with the drunken ogre attack, the fire at the distillery, the lizards loose in the boarding house - oh - yeah, you already knew about that. Then the gremmies ambushed us on the way back to town and apparently incited a mob to try to burn Agatha!" When she said it like that, it actually did sound sort of adventurous.

"So, I guess I real, honest-to-goodness guard would be awesome. Drackie's good with a sword too, so I bet he'd appreciate some help. It's a pity these gremmies don't like dancing. I'd be a lot more use then." Torryn swept her wavy, golden blonde hair back to reveal a small pointed ear. She gave Stowe another warm smile. Whilst Stowe was a little concerned at her attire, Torryn wasn't, nor her own brazenly exposed thighs. She was a dancer after all and needed that freedom of movement. Torryn's tunic was short. Her boots were tall, coming over the knee. There was a considerable amount of tanned and toned flesh on display between the two.

Stowe (Allen D) HP: 24 AC: 22
Thursday December 23rd, 2021 9:04:23 PM
OOC: Stats and equipment are still pending charcter sheet approval. I'm going to be trying to post daily over the holidays just to get in the habit.

Stowe listened with rapt attention as Torryn shared a very brief recap of events. Of course she'd heard of some recent turmoil in town, but she had been too caught up in her own troubles lately. She had barely set foot outside the boarding house. A budding career ruined, and two years of success and skill wasted. Now what options did she have? Give up and run ro her parents in Plateau City? She was her own woman, and she was going to pull herself up and try to be helpful and do some good. She'd make sure people around here thought twice before they'd try to take advantage of anyone like that butterbiscuit at the Hearthfire.

Pushing aside her anger, she noticed Torryn looking over her clothes and she pushed them flat self-consciously. "I have other clothes. One minute." Then Stowe darted from the common room, up towards the bedrooms.

She returned just minutes later, now in hardy traveling clothes with a dull breastplate over her chest, formed to fit over her not-insubstantial bosom. Three sheaths were on a bandolier across her chest, though only two held knives. She held a large wooden shield painted with an intricate branching tree, and a sword that seemed just a little too large was slung at her side. Her pack had her bedroll and travel cloak already strapped on.

"I heard you say you needed cold iron weapons. All the best chef's knives are cold iron, as are mine. But this one got a little damaged. Maybe we can get it reforged?" She tosses a slender but badly bent blade onto the table.

DM BatMark -- Well Met, Stowe
Thursday December 23rd, 2021 10:20:06 PM
Stowe mentions needing to have a cold iron blade reforged, and you are all aware that there is a dwarven blacksmith named Daedra in the hamlet. Members of the party who were around in the early days may make a DC 8 INT or Knowledge local check Highlight to display spoiler: {You recall that Daedra did have some cold iron that she was unwilling to part with when you were unproven, and even loaned a cold iron hammer to your companion Evred, who was a member of the Windguard.}

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 17/17 AC:15 d20=7 ;
Friday December 24th, 2021 6:01:42 AM
Torryn hadn't really got the vaguest notion about cold iron. Surely once bent it was ruined? She gave a mental shrug, far more interested in Stowe's armour. A breastplate! her father had told her how effective they were, but they were far from cheap. Stowe must have been a very good guard to afford that.

"You were fast." She marvelled. When not rushing to an alarm, Torryn liked to make sure that she looked her best before venturing forth.

Mole; (RichP) AC 18; HP 18/18; CMD 14 d20+1=10 ; d20+9=19 ;
Friday December 24th, 2021 2:30:01 PM
After a long while of drinking and eating, Mole recognizes that this woman, Stowe, isn't going anywhere. He looks up from his mug. "Mug of the morning ta you." He says. "The names Grund Fyrbend, but just call me Mole. I'm a miner, by trade."

He takes another drink from his mug and wipes the wet from his beard with his sleeve. "Cold iron's hard ta come by. Grows deep in the Wold. Have to dig down deep ta find it. Don't know too much on the forgin' process, but from what I've seen and heard it's not a simple thing."

Stowe (Allen D) HP: 24 AC: 22
Friday December 24th, 2021 5:24:58 PM
Stowe still stands awkwardly at the side of the table, holding her pack. She seems unsure whether to sit or not. "Good meeting you Mole. I don't know anything about forging, I just know good knives. These were my livelihood for the past two years."

She seems to make a decision, then grabs a chair from a nearby table and pulls it up. She waves down a server to order another mug of ale. "So what are you going to do next? I think I'm done with small knives for awhile." she says meaningfully, touching the hilt of the sword at her side.

Stowe (Allen D) HP: 26, AC: 22, F: 5, R: 5, W: 1, CMD: 19
Sunday December 26th, 2021 2:37:46 PM
Stowe looks around at the others gathered around the table, all suddenly silent. Cringing inwardly, she says "uh... can I buy you all a round? Anything you'd like." falling back on the time-honored and tradition way to make friends.

Ooc: I'll deduct the cost from whatever the starting gold will be.

[Linkhref=https://docs.google.com/document/d/161EaXDh03MdO7VljTr19EIa7wohk_R4D2iVlovVEx98/edit?usp=drivesdk]Stowe[/link]; (Allen D); HP: 26; AC: 22; F: 5; R: 5; W: 1; CMD: 19
Sunday December 26th, 2021 2:51:06 PM
Ooc: Testing character sheet link, though it's not fully approved yet.

Stowe; (Allen D); HP: 26; AC: 22; F: 5; R: 5; W: 1; CMD: 19
Sunday December 26th, 2021 2:53:20 PM
Ooc: and again, sorry. Wish there was a 'preview' button...

DM BatMark
Sunday December 26th, 2021 9:31:24 PM
Minerva bustles over to take everyone's drink order, after hearing Stowe's offer to buy the party a round. What'll you have, then?"

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 17/17 AC:15
Monday December 27th, 2021 6:40:59 AM
"Nettle tea, please." Torryn wasn't someone that cared very much for alcohol. There were times when it was practically mandatory though. This was not one such occasion. A clear head would be useful in determining what course of action to take next. Events had escalated terribly. Hopefully though, with someone as capable as Stowe amongst their number, they'd fare much better this time.

"Thank you, Stowie." She said with a broad smile. Torryn had always been told that she had a lovely smile and it had, on many occasions, succeeded in extricating her from potentially difficult situations. This time the situation was neither difficult nor embarrassing so she used that winning smile merely to convey her thanks.

Drack (Chris J) - hp 18/18 - AC 16
Monday December 27th, 2021 10:14:43 AM
Drack stumbles down the stairs in the morning to join the others, and instantly spots a newcomer to the table. With the breastplate and the oversized sword apparent, Drack gives a quick frown and returns upstairs, refusing to join the group in his morning clothes if another fighter is trying to show off.

Drack returns down the stairs, wearing his carefully cleaned and polished chain shirt, his Elven curved blade sheathed on one side, and his short sword sheathed on the other. He joins the group as the newcomer offers to buy a round.

"I'd love a nice light breakfast ale please."

"Looks like I missed the introductions, my name's Drack. Thanks for the drink. Pleasure to meet you. What have I missed? You look geared up?"

(Group stuff to be decided: 20 cold iron sling bullets, cold iron dagger)

(I believe Drack's character sheet is updated with a typical Woldian roll of 2 for HP.)

Manolo (Michael A) - HP 10/10 AC 17
Monday December 27th, 2021 9:09:30 PM
Manolo only drinks a mint tea for breakfast and decides not to eat anything.
'Too much food', he thinks for a moment until he smells a different tea and takes a peek at whatever it is that Torryn is drinking.

Stowe; (Allen D); HP: 26; AC: 22; F: 5; R: 5; W: 1; CMD: 19
Monday December 27th, 2021 10:36:03 PM
"Nice to meet you Drack. Is it breakfast time already? I seem to have lost track." Stowe blinks in surprise. Time really does fly, especially when her days have been empty except for feeling sorry for herself. Maybe she'd had more ale that she thought last night.

She pats her weathered but well-maintained gear. "I didn't want to miss you all or hold anyone up when you decide to leave. This isn't what I usually wear around town, but i have a feeling it will come in handy."

She looks over at Manolo and gives him a polite nod in greeting.

Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.): hp:15/15. ac:13
Tuesday December 28th, 2021 12:24:51 PM
Mortimer had been distracted all this time. He was experiencing the euphoria one gets from eating a rare cut of meat from the kitchen. The bloodier the better. He washes the last morsel down with a loud gulp of red wine. After a short pause, he turns his head and finally notices the others talking.

"Pardon me, ladies. Self medicating from a recent trauma, I was."

(ooc: Sorry I had intended to keep posting regularly over the holidays, but things got rather busy.)

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 17/17 AC:15
Tuesday December 28th, 2021 12:56:12 PM
"Oh, Stowie, introductions." She pointed to each in turn. *That's Dracky, Manny and Morty." As introductions went, it was woeful, but her enthusiastic and welcoming smile offset her lack of decorum. She then leaned closer to Manolo and let a waft of her nettle tea drift to his nose.

"Its nettle. Very good for you." She added without losing her grin.

Stowe; (Allen D); HP: 26; AC: 22; F: 5; R: 5; W: 1; CMD: 19
Tuesday December 28th, 2021 9:32:35 PM
Stowe winces slightly at the overly-sweet Torryn's introductions. She's typically favored the company of people down to earth and even a little gruff. Good, hearty souls around a campfire, who may tell an off-color joke or a ribald story on occasion, but typically don't give each other pet names and grin with such glistening white teeth. Stowe keeps her own mouth shut, sure she could never dazzle like that.

She looks at the other three at the table that Torryn didn't introduce. Is it simple oversight? Is there some history here? One was a gnome who looked rather friendly. Another was a dwarf who looked rather surly. She liked him already. And the last, a rather bookish looking man. While not exactly well-read herself, Stowe had a certain respect for those dedicated to the pursuit of knowledge, especially if that knowledge helped in the pursuit of keeping her crew from getting stabbed.

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 17/17 AC:15
Wednesday December 29th, 2021 5:47:22 PM
"Um..the others...That's Loryn, Mole and Ash" She gestured in turn to the gnome, the dwarf and the man. How was she supposed to know who Stowie knew and who she didn't? Well, if she already knew them, she'd soon say. She looked Stowe up and down once more. She really didn't look the sort who'd enjoy dancing. She'd probably enjoy sitting and drinking with Mole. It didn't matter. Torryn could dance well enough for two, or three, or four. Not that she'd be doing that much dancing. The gremlins didn't appreciate it. They really did have dark hearts! In that case it fell to her to perform a different kind of dance; one with her spear.

DM Steve -- Summary
Sunday January 2nd, 2022 10:52:42 PM
In summary, the party met in Windhorn Hamlet, witnessed events that townsfolk are calling the return of the bad times, and determined that a group of gremlins has been behind a series of increasingly dangerous and finally deadly attacks on townsfolk. Most recently, the party have saved Agatha from a mob of townsfolk egged on by erinat gremlins. In particular, Angus Key was trying to convince Ezra to set Agatha on fire "in return for what she did to him." The party, along with Agatha and Big Eddie are having drinks -- and because I'm fuzzy on the location, we'll say they're at the common room of Minerva's boarding house after getting the drinks from the Happy Half-Ogre. They have just met Stowe, another boarder, and have begun to realize that they are more capable now that they were when they met (just reached 2nd level). One of the items they have found along the way is a ring that Ezra gave them; Loren asked Agatha what she knew about the ring. Noma of Warrd has blessed the group to heal their wounds. Agatha has given the group twenty cold iron sling bullets and a cold iron dagger -- weapons that can hurt fey creatures like gremlins more easily than those made of other materials.

Some of the group has interacted with Stowe, who has mentioned needing to have a cold iron blade reforged. You are all aware that there is a dwarven blacksmith named Daedra in the hamlet. Members of the party who were around in the early days may make a DC 8 INT or Knowledge local check Highlight to display spoiler: {You recall that Daedra did have some cold iron that she was unwilling to part with when you were unproven, and even loaned a cold iron hammer to your companion Evred, who was a member of the Windguard.}

Agatha asks Loren to see the ring again. She says that she has confronted Ezra in the past, critical of him selling his whiskey to minors. Several days before the fire, Ezra accused her of stealing his magic ring, insulting her terribly. From the argument she had with Ezra, she can tell the party that the ring he lost summons a small fire elemental. But if that is the same ring, she has no idea what actually happened to it. See seems a bit satisfied that this should prove to Ezra she didn't steal it.

Big Eddie hands Mortimer a small round rock that he says Mortimer dropped while he struggled with the gremlin in the bag. Mortimer isn't aware of it, so it must have been the gremlin's. A little investigation finds it is magical, with a strong aura of transmutation. If you take a few days to worry over it, Highlight to display spoiler: {it is a pearl of power for recalling a first level spell.}

As evening falls, Agatha and Big Eddie leave, Minerva starts preparing dinner, and the rest of you have time to decide what to do over the next few days.

OOC: The group should now be second level, but this happened just before the winter shut down.
* Please update your character sheets. Until they are done, preparations may be made in town and information gathered or discussed. Let's have them done this week if we can.
* Ezra's ring is a particular problem because it is above PC WBL but was designed as a Fate item. Anything done with it will have to be done in-game.
* Also, please remember you must roll your character's HP in the Loot 'n Booty.

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 17/17 AC:15 d20=12 ;
Monday January 3rd, 2022 5:37:58 AM
"Hmm." Wondered Torryn. "Do you think that Evred will have returned that hammer he was given? That was made from that cold iron stuff. Maybe that would be useful too. Oh, and Stowie, Phaedra the blacksmith has some cold iron. She might be willing to part with it after the events of last night."

Perhaps she should avail herself of a few cold iron bullets. Using a sling couldn't be that difficult, could it? Plus she was well co-ordinated, as is to be expected of a dancer.

"So.....do you think I could have a bullet thing or two?" She asked tentatively.

Drack (Chris J) - hp 18/18 - AC 16
Monday January 3rd, 2022 7:55:36 AM
Drack sets both the cold iron bullets and the dagger on the table. "I don't think I'll use the bullets, but i would try the dagger if my sword proved to be ineffective."

"As far as the magical ring, I'm sure some of the spell casters would be better at figuring that out than me."

Stowe; (Allen D); HP: 26; AC: 22; F: 5; R: 5; W: 1; CMD: 19
Monday January 3rd, 2022 10:59:09 AM
Stowe looks over toward Mole. "You said Daedra can work cold iron? I'd like to head over there in the morning and get this knife reforged into something a little more suited to combat. I already have a pair, so if anyone else could use it more..." she shakes her head and looks down, "I'd hate for someone to get caught unarmed by some fae thing.""

Stowe feels self-conscious that she's a bit low on funds, but she's got just about everything she needs for a trek in the woods.

She calls to a server to order a hearty dinner, a little worried if she'll have the funds to make next month's rent.

"i don't have much else i need to do in town, but I'm happy to come along with anyone who could use a hand. "

Manolo (Michael A) - HP 10/10 AC 17
Monday January 3rd, 2022 2:15:45 PM
Manolo goes for a short hike in the surroundings trying to clear his head from the troubled thought about the gremlins.

Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.): hp:15/15. ac:13
Monday January 3rd, 2022 2:38:21 PM
"Slinging these little one-shot bullets at these tiny, bum muppets sounds wasteful with a precious metal. Why not have them reforged into dagger blades or a short sword? By my estimate, 10 bullets weigh 5 pounds. That's approximately 4 or 5 daggers."

Stowe; (Allen D); HP: 26; AC: 22; F: 5; R: 5; W: 1; CMD: 19
Monday January 3rd, 2022 3:19:05 PM
Stowe raises her eyebrows appraisingly at the suggestion. All together they might have enough for a longsword or even a bastard sword. She thinks of the blade strapped to her hip, imagining it made from cold iron and smiles. After a second the smile fades. There's no way I could afford that. Maybe one of the others could get a new sword though. she thinks to herself, staying quiet.

AC 13 HP 13/13 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K
Monday January 3rd, 2022 5:53:07 PM
Loryn sits forward, having been starting off into the fire, some unseen dream of relaxation and peace about his features, but that was done and it was time to return to business.

Loryn extends a warm welcome to the woman Stowe. "Well met and welcome Stowe." The gnome begins. "Im Loryn Glitterfall and another good sword hand is most welcome." TO the business at hand, "Drak, I think you should certainly keep the cold Iron dagger, Mole, you could deploy the bullets most effectively and I think we look into getting Stowe, her own piece of cold iron from Daedra. Maybe just the Hammer again, but maybe something more."

Loryn asks for the gem if no one else has looked at it already and will explore the magic within

As for the Ring, Loryn is happy to let Agatha look at it, but not take. The gnome will make it a point to speak with Ezra and remind him that it was he who gave the ring to Loryn in the first place

Spells
5-1st- Color Spray, Magic Weapon
0- Detect Magic, Read Magic, Mage Hand, Message, Mending

Gnome: 1/day Dancing Lights, Prestidigitation, Ghost Sound, Speak with Animals
Sorcerer Ray 7/ day 30' 1d6 Cast 4

Mole; (RichP) AC 18; HP 18/18; CMD 14
Monday January 3rd, 2022 6:58:08 PM
Mole sits and listens while drinking an ale. "I can use a sling and also enchant sling stones to make them more effective, but I'm not sure if it works on worked metal."

Mortimer makes an interesting suggestion. "Reforging the stones would give us more weapons that could be effective against the critters.."

Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 10/10
Monday January 3rd, 2022 9:35:14 PM
Ash sits near Mole, nursing a drink as well. He watches back and forth of the discussion of the cold iron weapons, but as someone who swore off martial weapons, he has no say in the matter.

He sips, his beer and lets out a little smile. His new friends seem like they were handing this better than he could anyway.

DM Steve -- Slinging these little one-shot bullets at these tiny, bum muppets sounds wasteful with a precious metal
Monday January 3rd, 2022 10:47:14 PM

Mortimer proposes that the sling bullets could be made into one or more melee weapons, which would be reusable.
Ash avoids discussing weapons.
Mole says he can use the sling stones, but notes that Mortimer’s suggestion is an interesting one.
Manolo goes for a walk.
Drack mentions that he could use the cold iron dagger, although he prefers his sword.
Torrynashkabbeth asks for a couple of sling bullets, and points out that Daedra has some cold iron herself.
Loryn greets Stowe. He makes some suggestions about weapons. He also decides to visit Ezra again.
Stowe is interested in seeing if Daedra can reforge her cold iron knife, even though she’s not sure how she will pay for it. Stowe agrees with Mortimer’s assessment.

In the morning, Phaedra looks in on the group while they are having breakfast at Minerva’s. ”I hear you may have stopped a lynching yesterday, for which you have my thanks.” She and the two on-duty guardsmen were chasing rumors of trouble at the Millford farm south of town, which turned out to be nothing. After discussing their perspectives on what happened with the party, she seems a bit grimmer. The entire visit seems to have been to apologize for the group getting involved with what she thinks the guard should have handled.

Those of the group who go to talk to Daedra learn that she has enough cold iron to fashion several weapons. ”Phaedra has already asked me to make weapons for you to use and return to the armory. I just need to know what you want. And time to make the things.” She explains that she only has so much material, and some weapons take longer to make than others, so if the group is in a hurry she suggests light, simple weapons. She already has a hammer if that suits anyone. ”Sounds like you’ve caught scent of what’s been causing trouble recently. Gremlins, they say. Can’t route the buggers out too quickly, to my thinking.”

Loryn is able to find Ezra readily enough, and learns that the ring is indeed the one he accused Agatha of stealing. It wasn’t in its usual place when he was looking for it one day, and he turned the place upside down looking for it. But several days later, after he’d given up, there it was just a little out of place. What does Loryn want to know about it?

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 17/17 AC:15
Tuesday January 4th, 2022 4:43:41 AM
"I think that perhaps it would be better if the bullets were somehow melded together to make a more serviceable weapon." Torryn really had no idea how such things were possible and really had no interest in uncovering that mystery. "But whilst I could use a cold iron spear head, perhaps others might profit more. After all, I do have my Fey Spark. That's not going to miss."

Bullet stones would indeed be easily lost, but if a dagger or spear head were made, such weapons if thrown, could be much more easily retrieved: not that she planned on fighting fey again any time in the near future.

Drack (Chris J) - hp 18/18 - AC 16
Tuesday January 4th, 2022 8:31:32 AM
"I agree that the sling stones would be less efficient. The gremlins do seem to favor running and then disappearing when given the option. Perhaps half a dozen or so arrow heads and a short sword? Stowe? you any good with a bow? I'm open to whichever option is chosen though."

Stowe; (Allen D); HP: 26; AC: 22; F: 5; R: 5; W: 1; CMD: 19
Tuesday January 4th, 2022 9:23:59 AM
"[B]I used to have a lovely shortbow, but I sold it to buy my chef's knives. I just have a few javelins now, though I'm fairly handy with them. They're easier to use with my shield anyway.[b]"

She finishes her breakfast and pushes back from the table; fed, dressed, and ready for whatever the day brings.

AC 13 HP 13/13 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K
Tuesday January 4th, 2022 10:58:33 AM
Loryn nods to Mortimer, "You know, that is a good idea.. We need, or rather Drak and Stowe need cold iron forged weapons and fast. We have a Dagger, we have a hammer and so whatever you ask Deadra to forge, I would suggest something that can be done in a day or two and I leave that to you guys to figure out. I'm going to see Ezra and I'll meet you back at Minerva's for lunch"

Loryn is happy to know the ring is the same one and wants to know a couple things,
"You instantly jumped to the conclusion that Agatha must have stolen it just because you couldn't find it? Why her, why only her. She been known or accused of stealing other things?"

"You said the ring no longer worked. What makes you think that? So have you used the ring in the past to summon forth a fire elemental and when did you last do that?"

"I assume you found and had the ring before the night of the fire and did not find it during the night of the fire?"

Loryn also has a question for Phaedra, "Does she intend to place Angus under arrest for attempted murder or at the very least inciting a riot and assault. The man was the head of the mob that tried to burn Agatha alive and if not, why not?"

Spells
5-1st- Color Spray, Magic Weapon
0- Detect Magic, Read Magic, Mage Hand, Message, Mending

Gnome: 1/day Dancing Lights, Prestidigitation, Ghost Sound, Speak with Animals
Sorcerer Ray 7/ day 30' 1d6+1 Cast 0

Stowe; (Allen D); HP: 26; AC: 22; F: 5; R: 5; W: 1; CMD: 19
Tuesday January 4th, 2022 1:34:30 PM
"A longsword for, uh, Drackie then?", Stowe says, struggling to remember his name from all the introductions. "I can swing a hammer too, if that what hurts the creatures the best. i prefer to swing Ser Bernard though." She says this last while patting the pommel of her sword, apparently the type given to naming her weapons.

"So to the forge first to put in an order, and then what else? I'll feel a little silly all dressed up with no one to dance with." she says, gesturing towards her breastplate. "Doesn't anyone in town have giant rats in their basement that need slaying?" This last is accompanied by a hearty laugh.

Manolo (Michael A) - HP 10/10 AC 17
Tuesday January 4th, 2022 7:44:17 PM
After awhile, Manolo goes back to their current home and ask the others for an idea about what to do if they are in close proximity to the gremlins.

Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.): hp:15/15. ac:13 d20+4=24 ;
Tuesday January 4th, 2022 8:30:49 PM
Since having woke up from being healed by Noma, and having consumed a meal of bloody meat and wine, Mortimer had begun to consider existential quandaries. Especially the effects of mortal death on those still living; mainly with Minerva having lost her lovey dovey. Mortimer has always incapable of empathy to others feelings, especially when it came to death. However, over the past few years of being a gravedigger, and witnessing many funerals, he's become sympathetic to their pain the loss. He's glad that Torryn took the initiative and give their hostess some comfort ... something he has no idea how to give. He considers why he's unable to do this or understand why she's sad. Then Big Eddie completely puts the kibosh on such thoughts with the pearl.

"This fell off me?!" he asks. "Pinched it off the bum-muppet, I did!" It had a luminosity that didn't seem natural. After a quick cast of Detect Magic, sure enough it had the glow of the supernatural. "Lookie here, another piece of treasure ... this pearl is magic!" For some reason, he understands that the magic has some kind of transformative quality to it. Even though he is a novice, Mortimer developed an understanding to the lore of magic, even though he's never studied it at all. He wonders how he knows this.

(Knowledge [Arcana]: 24, natural 20, lol, to identify the pearl.)

"This Pearl allows you to recall one of your spells each day! Don't ask me how I know this ... because I don't know why!"

Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 15/15
Tuesday January 4th, 2022 10:19:46 PM
Ash's eyebrows rise at the pearl. He was schooled in magic, but hadn't seen many in person.

DM Steve -- The gremlins do seem to favor running and then disappearing when given the option
Tuesday January 4th, 2022 10:48:38 PM
Loryn points out that there are already a dagger and a hammer. He goes to talk with Ezra, and has questions for both Ezra and Phaedra.
Mortimer identifies the pearl of power, but is at a loss as to how he did it.
Drack suggests arrows and a short sword.
Ash is intrigued by Mortimer’s description of the pearl.
Manolo asks what to do if they are in close proximity to the gremlins.
Stowe says she is handier with javelins than a bow. She thinks maybe a longsword would suit Drack best.
Torrynashkabbeth admits she would like a cold iron spear head, but thinks other people should have priority on the weapons.
Mole is quiet.

Daedra listens to the weapon requests. . . a spear, arrows, a shortsword, a longsword … She has the material to do all that. The spear will probably take a day, a short sword will take a week, and a long sword about ten days. Arrows, a couple of days – it’s best to do them in batches and the feathers give her fits.

=====

Loryn learns that Ezra blamed Agatha when his ring disappeared because she’s the one who was always in his face about the evils of alcohol, when he was just making a living. No one else in town disapproved of his business, and that ring was an important part of making his premium whiskey. When the ring disappeared, of course he suspected Agatha.

As to how he knows it doesn’t work anymore, well when it showed up again he tried to use it. When he used it, it brought the elemental but he couldn’t control it anymore. The elemental started the fire in the distillery.

=====

Loryn also questions Phaedra about why she hasn’t locked up Angus. She responds that it wasn’t Angus behind the mob but the gremlins, as Mortimer demonstrated in front of a town full of witnesses. Yes, Angus is a hot head and probably more susceptible to such influences than wiser folks. But that’s not something she can arrest him for.

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 17/17 AC:15
Wednesday January 5th, 2022 6:57:10 AM
Torryn smiled broadly. Finally something she could help with,

"Daedra, as you know, my father is a hunter and my mother and I help make the arrows. I'm not as skilled as her, but I am a fletcher. If you make the arrow heads, I can make the arrows and fit those heads. That should save you some time." Whilst Torryn was indeed not as skilled as her mother, she'd quickly learnt the advantage of deploying her fey magic in the construction of those arrows. Mending was ever so useful in getting the fletchings to attach neatly and in perfect alignment. Of course the crafting of perfectly straight shafts she typically left to her father. Still, if they had days in which to act, she could retrieve some arrow shafts and then easily finish the construction of the arrows.

Regarding Angus, Torryn thought that Loryn had the right of it.

"So, he was, I mean IS a hot head and was manipulated. He still tried to BURN Agatha. That's not the same as pushing someone into a puddle. If he was magically compelled, then yes , he's not responsible for his actions, BUT - it seems to me that he has some wickedness in his heart that the Dark Fey encouraged. That DOES need to be addressed and addressed firmly. I think a swift kick to the nethers might realign his thinking." She wasn't fazed by Dardra's authority. She knew that she really ought to be, but as usual, she'd spoken before really thinking about what she was saying. It seemed that she still had a great deal to learn about patience and perspective.

Drack (Chris J) - hp 18/18 - AC 16
Wednesday January 5th, 2022 8:06:01 AM
Drack listens to Daedra regarding the weapons. "Since they will be going to the town armory when we are done with them, My thought is to go ahead and make them. As for the rest of us, I think waiting two weeks for the weapons will give the gremlins too much time to strike and possibly cause more deaths. I think we should head out first thing and see if we can occupy the little monsters enough that they don't cause more damage in town, or perhaps even find a way to end them."

"As for treasure we find in our exploits as a group, I think they should be used by whomever can use them during the course of what we are doing, but after that, all treasure should be split evenly amongst us. Including magic. We will need to find a way to be able to sell it."

Drack (Chris J) - hp 18/18 - AC 16
Wednesday January 5th, 2022 8:09:55 AM
"But it does sound like the gremlins swiped the ring, and altered it for their own purposes. We don't know if it was temporary or permanent."

Drack will say nothing on the matter of Angus. The town could handle that as they saw fit.

AC 13 HP 13/13 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K
Wednesday January 5th, 2022 12:49:25 PM
"Well done Mortimer, well done indeed." the gnome beams as his fellow sorcerer identifies the pearl. "Given the properties of the Pearl and that fact that only 1 of us can magically heal, I think Mole should wield the pearl. Once this gremlin business is done we can address longer terms on the treasures we acquire. I agree with you Drack on the surface. it seems a reasonable plan. A few of us are members of the Woldian League, we should be able to discover some method to sell magic treasure."

Loryn also agrees with the thought of going after gremlins sooner than later. He believes a single day for the spear to be crafted to be the best bet. That would give 3 of us cold iron and I can temporarily enchant a weapon as well and by temporary I mean like a minute"

So let's wait for the spear and then head out.

Loryn plans to get some sleep during the day so that he can be out and up that night

Spells
5-1st- Color Spray, Magic Weapon
0- Detect Magic, Read Magic, Mage Hand, Message, Mending

Gnome: 1/day Dancing Lights, Prestidigitation, Ghost Sound, Speak with Animals
Sorcerer Ray 7/ day 30' 1d6+1 Cast 0

Stowe; (Allen D); HP: 26; AC: 22; F: 5; R: 5; W: 1; CMD: 19
Wednesday January 5th, 2022 2:04:54 PM
Stowe murmurs agreement as she munches an apple. She doesn't want to cause trouble in town by pursuing Angus, but she'll go along with what the group decides. She wasn't present for his misdeeds anyway, so that's someone else's kettle of fish.

"I think waiting for this spearhead for Torryn is a good idea, but if we wait any longer the trail might go cold." She says, nodding toward Drack in agreement. "If Daedra has the material for a bastard sword I'd be glad to have it, though if it comes to the matter of payment... let's just say I'm hoping the town is covering that expense. I'm sure that would take her a few weeks though, and we don't want anyone to come to harm by these, um, what were they? Bum-munchers?"

Stowe is hoping she'll learn more about healing someday, but currently only has meagre (and mundane) skills in that field.

OOC: Sorry, thought Drack had said longsword instead of short sword. I think the blacksmith's order would be spear (Torryn), arrows (??), short sword (Drack), bastard sword (Stowe). She's happy to have the broken knife re-forged as a dagger for someone else, or contribute as raw material.

Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.): hp:15/15. ac:13 d20+1=5 ;
Wednesday January 5th, 2022 2:42:25 PM
Mortimer nods in agreement with Loryn that Mole should get the Pearl. An extra heal spell every day would be brilliant." He then considers other items they have collected recently. "We should pool all the booty we've gotten."

Mortimer goes and collects an item from his backpack in his room. He returns with a Pearl Comb. "I'm beginnin' to see a pattern. Why am I findin' all these pearls? Anyways, this comb's worth 200 gold, it is. We could snip more heal potions." He wonders how many potions the local apothecary has.
(Knowledge [Local]: 5)

He begins to make a list of all known items they've received so far in their adventures.

80 platinum pieces
Two Cure Light Wound potions
Fire Elemental Ring
Pearl of Power (1st level)
Scroll of Spider Climb
Pearl Comb (200g)
Masterwork Dagger
20 Masterwork Arrows
10 Masterwork Crossbow Bolts
Cold Iron Dagger
Cold Iron Sling Bullets
Gunk-encrusted Breastplate Armor
Half of a purple-stained skull
Several unidentified rocks

"Did I forget anything?"

Drack (Chris J) - hp 18/18 - AC 16
Wednesday January 5th, 2022 2:54:15 PM
“I use an Elven long sword Stowe. Daedra listed what she had enough to make, and I think all the items are going back to the city armory, and not us. I prefer my Elven longsword, but if it doesn’t hurt them much, I’d give the short sword a go.”

After Mortimer reads off the list, Drack will chime in. “I wasn’t around for a lot of it, but if you want to split everything evenly, I’d be happy to use my share in our future journeys, which we will hopefully have.”

Mole; (RichP) AC 18; HP 18/18; CMD 14
Wednesday January 5th, 2022 3:21:59 PM
Mole continues to sit and listen to the surface dwellers go over the treasure. If the ring had been an earth elemental summons, Mole would have wanted it.

Mort made a lot of sense about the pearl, but Mole wasn't greedy; so, he plans on letting them make the decisions.

Stowe; (Allen D); HP: 26; AC: 22; F: 5; R: 5; W: 1; CMD: 19
Wednesday January 5th, 2022 6:05:21 PM
Stowe steps away from the table for a minute to use the necessary. She politely leaves you to divvy up loot without her, since she hasn't earned it yet. She doesn't want anyone to feel rude for doing it in front of her.

Manolo (Michael A) - HP 10/10 AC 17
Wednesday January 5th, 2022 8:01:19 PM
Manolo keeps quiet and doesn't say anything at the moment.

DM Steve -- But it does sound like the gremlins swiped the ring, and altered it for their own purposes
Wednesday January 5th, 2022 10:50:33 PM
Torrynashkabbeth offers to help make arrows. She also takes up for Loryn when hearing what Phaedra told him.
Loryn suggests Mole is best suited to take the pearl. Like Drack, he thinks the gremlins should be tackled sooner than later – perhaps wait for the spear and then head out.
Drack worries that spending too much time waiting for weapons will be an unacceptable delay. He suggests taking the battle to the gremlins.
Mortimer agrees Mole should have the pearl. He thinks over the items that the group has acquired.
Stowe agrees to waiting for the spear but no longer. She would like to have a bastard sword, but realizes that would mean waiting and paying for it somehow.
Mole lets the others worry about division of material goods.
Manolo keeps quiet and doesn't say anything at the moment.
Ash is quiet.

As Mortimer goes through the items folks have collected, he discovers four gems he did not recall (100 gp each, should have been with the pearl). He thinks that if they clean off the gunk, the breastplate is still usable. The skull has no more than sentimental value, and who knows what the ogres thought the rocks were for.

Local knowledge DC 5: Highlight to display spoiler: {The most famous adventurer in these parts is Grog, and he is partial to fellow members of the WLA. No doubt he could point them to the places they need to go.}

=====

Daedra listens to the reduced list and says, ”The spear will be no problem. If you don’t have time to wait for swords, might I suggest that the simplest thing to make is a club. I can probably have a couple of those in a day. And what did you decide about arrows?”

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 17/17 AC:15 d20=11 ;
Thursday January 6th, 2022 5:02:17 AM
Torrym hadn't even given the treasure a moment's thought. She was grateful that Morty had been so assiduous in his record keeping. That was evidence enough for her that he was exactly the man for the job and that she really shouldn't give it any further consideration.

"Dracky's right." She began It was after all, the more important topic. "We really can't afford to sit back and do nothing now that we've pushed them out of town. As I see it, they'll do one of two things: either run and not return, having been so thoroughly routed, or, come back with a vengeance their dark hearts filled with anger and spite. So, if we are sitting back expecting a long delay before another attack we don't really need the weapons. If we expect a swift response, we need the weapons immediately if not sooner.
I'm trying my best to be practical here; so you all had better appreciate this.
I suggest we go with the spear head - for which, many thanks - use the already available hammer, reshape the bent knife to a dagger and use a rest as a club. That's as fast as I think we can reasonably be. Whilst all that is happening, we do need to be watchful and patrol."

She didn't mention Grog. She hadn't signed up to the Woldian Adventuring thing; so perhaps someone who had should be the one offer that as an idea. Torryn was already considering other priorities, such as what to wear and whether to have her hair up or down. Those were important decisions.

Drack (Chris J) - hp 18/18 - AC 16
Thursday January 6th, 2022 8:38:13 AM
"Agatha said we were probably on the right trail when we chased them in the brush towards the woods. The longer we wait, the more time they have to relocate or to start planning another attack. My vote is to wait a day for the clubs, or one club and one spear head. Torry can use the spear, and either Stowe or I can use a club. Try and head out there tomorrow to see if we can find anything. Up to the rest of you."

Drack is not trained in local knowledge, and obviously says nothing.

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 17/17 AC:15
Thursday January 6th, 2022 9:15:14 AM
Torryn was not known for her patience; soo abiding for just the day certainly held appeal for her.

"I agree with Dracky. Patrolling, whilst sensible, hasn't yielded great results for us. So if we can take the battle to them...that seems like a good idea to me. Oh and don't forget - as well as a club, we have a hammer and will easily have a dagger too."

Stowe; (Allen D); HP: 26; AC: 22; F: 5; R: 5; W: 1; CMD: 19
Thursday January 6th, 2022 12:30:13 PM
Stowe returns from the rest room humming a cheery tune. She overhears the conversation and chimes in, "If Phaedra and the guard aren't taking this seriously I would be delighted to stand guard!"

As long as it's not raining, she thinks to herself. I loathe the rain. All that cold and wet.... She has too many memories of being on the road as a child, soaked and chilled to the bone.

She makes no move to sit, apparently ready to start patrolling the edge of town right now while the others gather supplies.

AC 13 HP 13/13 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K
Thursday January 6th, 2022 2:54:11 PM
Loryn taps the table a couple times, "Settled then. We have a spear crafted, we borrow the hammer again. Let's not worry about clubs and that means we can get back to the ambush site in the woods tomorrow. Stowe and Drack keep near me and at the sign of trouble I will enchant your weapons. Torry, you'll have the spear, Mole can make his own weapon magical and the rest of use have actual magic to throw. I can talk to Grogg about where to sell treasure once we are done with this dirty bit of business." He glances about for verification from the rest and then has a finishing thought.
"So that just leaves us with a patrol for the night to set and I think 2 teams to cover the town. Say, Drack, me, Mole and Mortimer as a team and Torry, Stowe, Ash and Manolo as the other."

Spells
5-1st- Color Spray, Magic Weapon
0- Detect Magic, Read Magic, Mage Hand, Message, Mending

Gnome: 1/day Dancing Lights, Prestidigitation, Ghost Sound, Speak with Animals
Sorcerer Ray 7/ day 30' 1d6+1 Cast 0

Drack (Chris J) - hp 18/18 - AC 16
Thursday January 6th, 2022 4:03:24 PM
Drack listens to Stowe, and then to Loryn. “Sounds like a good plan Loryn.”

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 17/17 AC:15
Thursday January 6th, 2022 5:24:09 PM
"Yes, I can see quite well at night; better than most." Torryn added cheerily. She was happy to be doing something. Of course, she'd need plenty of rest if she was staying up all night. Or maybe it was half the night. Someone would explain it, she was sure.

Manolo (Michael A) - HP 10/10 AC 17 d20+6=12 ;
Thursday January 6th, 2022 6:19:10 PM
Manolo thinks about the things being said and asks the group.
"Wouldn't it be easier to ask for help from Grog,?"
He continues to speak.
surely Grog would love to see those gremlins causing no more havoc and chaos like they are doing now.
Local Knoweldge 12

Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 15/15
Thursday January 6th, 2022 6:23:15 PM
Ash taps his temple and points to Lorryn at her suggestion of Mole getting the pearl.

"SMART!" ... He says with a little too much gusto. As for the distribution of weapons, he lets them pick the time frame but agrees that too much time swings it back to the gremlins favor.

Stowe; (Allen D); HP: 26; AC: 22; F: 5; R: 5; W: 1; CMD: 19
Thursday January 6th, 2022 7:43:25 PM
Stowe thinks Loryn's plan sounds splendid, though she'd be comfortable with 3 shifts if some people needed more sleep. "Do you know any town youngsters who'd like to stay up half the night and be runners? If there's any trouble they could go for the guard. I wouldn't want them in any danger, but I was doing that in the caravan from a pretty young age."

Drack (Chris J) - hp 18/18 - AC 16
Thursday January 6th, 2022 8:20:41 PM
Drack listens to Stowe, and then to Loryn. “Sounds like a good plan Loryn.”

DM Steve -- We have a spear crafted, we borrow the hammer again.
Thursday January 6th, 2022 10:54:16 PM
Manolo suggests asking for help from Grog in dealing with the gremlins.
Torrynashkabbeth is glad Mortimer has kept track of the treasure. She agrees they can’t wait before going after the gremlins. She suggests they get the hammer and get a spear, dagger, and club made. She also wants to patrol while they wait, and is persuaded to Drack and Loryn’s plan.
Ash agrees to Mole getting the pearl.
Stowe says she would be glad to stand guard. She likes Loryn’s plan.
Loryn agrees to crafting a spear and borrowing the hammer. He suggests they not worry about clubs. They can patrol the night and head out in the morning.
Drack suggests only waiting a day, so that the gremlins don’t have time to prepare an attack. After Loryn expands on that plan, Drack agrees.
Mortimer and Mole are quiet.

There seems to be consensus with Loryn’s plan, and the group ask Daedra to make a spear and to let them use the hammer she already has. By the end of the day, Daedra has the spear ready, and as a bonus has taken a wooden club and added some cold iron studs to it. They are able to collect all three weapons (hammer, spear, and club) before nightfall.

During the day, they decide on watches. Windhorn has only Phaedra and the three windguards. And while at least one of the guard is always on duty, the youngsters in town find the notion that they would stay up at night strange when they’ve a day of chores to start before sunup.

None of the watches notes anything unusual during the night.

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 17/17 AC:15
Friday January 7th, 2022 5:50:38 AM
Torryn was pleased to get her spear back. She hadn't realised how much she relied upon it until she hadn't got it. With all the danger and strangeness occurring in town, she'd become very accustomed to carrying that weapon around. Then again, her tutor, Agratha, was trying to get her to understand the necessity of balance: balance in all things, but particularly when it came to fighting. Agratha was not an advocate of fighting. Torryn thought that entirely understandable: few halflings were. However, if fighting was necessary having more than one method of doing so was highly desirable. So it was that Torryn had been learning how to kick and punch to good effect. The kicking came far more naturally than the punching. Punching was not a Torryn-thing. Palm strikes, they were fine. As were Ridge Hand Chops, but the punching - that she struggled with. Even so, if a gremlin came close enough she'd have no qualms about punching it.

She dismissed such ruminations. Rest was important thing. She needed to be fresh and alert when it came time to patrol.

"If no one has any pressing reason why I shouldn't, I'd like to meditate for a while?" She enquired of the others. She'd meditate for a while, but really wanted to stretch. She valued her flexibility. It would also be useful if it did come down to fighting.

Mole; (RichP) AC 18; HP 18/18; CMD 14
Friday January 7th, 2022 9:36:32 AM
Mole listens to the plans. He has no objections.

He spends the day patrolling with his group. He doesn't say much.

Drack (Chris J) - hp 18/18 - AC 16
Friday January 7th, 2022 9:50:35 AM
D follows along with Loryn's plan, and waits to head out after the gremlins.

Drack (Chris J) - hp 18/18 - AC 16
Friday January 7th, 2022 9:52:11 AM
D will give Stowe her option of hammer or club and then take the other. Like her, he plans to use his Elven longsword unless it proves mostly ineffective.

Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.): hp:15/15. ac:13
Friday January 7th, 2022 10:35:17 AM
(ooc: Sorry I missed last night's post. Exhaustion claimed me early.)

Stowe; (Allen D); HP: 26; AC: 22; F: 5; R: 5; W: 1; CMD: 19
Friday January 7th, 2022 11:39:48 AM
Stowe nods appreciatively and thanks Drack for letting her choose. She selects the hammer and decides to leave her sword, Ser Bernard, behind in her room when they go hunting. She looks at the hammer and thinks, I shall call you 'Tenderizer', looking forward to softening up some gremlins.

AC 13 HP 13/13 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K
Friday January 7th, 2022 7:03:30 PM
With the nights patrol done and nothing to show Loryn is thankful and heads to bed. "We'll get going to the woods just after noon, That'll give us a good 6 hours of sleep. See you in a few hours" the gnome retires

Just past noon he is up and downstairs in Minervas for a light lunch. "All right, we got our weapons and we got our wits." with a chuckle he adds without looking at anyone in particular, "Well most of us do at least."

With that and a smile, Loryn is ready to follow Drack, Torry and Ash back to where the Gremlin ambush took place

Spells
5-1st- Color Spray, Magic Weapon
0- Detect Magic, Read Magic, Mage Hand, Message, Mending

Gnome: 1/day Dancing Lights, Prestidigitation, Ghost Sound, Speak with Animals
Sorcerer Ray 7/ day 30' 1d6+1 Cast 0

Manolo (Michael A) - HP 10/10 AC 17
Friday January 7th, 2022 9:30:55 PM
Manolo helps with the patrol.
The gremlins would probably have no troubles causing problem at day and night.

Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.): hp:15/15. ac:13
Friday January 7th, 2022 10:32:08 PM
Mortimer can barely believe his he hears and sees. It seems that the rest of the group doesn't mind that he is the loot master. He didn't think it was possibly true ... that everyone in this gang are exhibiting an excessive lack of good judgement. He hides his slightest hint of a wicked grin in his drink. if only they knew that only a precious few weeks ago, he would have robbed them all blind. From Torryn's pointy spear to Loryn's pointy hat. Anything that wasn't nailed or tied down would have been vigorously gathered up and sold to the nearest pawn broker in a neighboring town. In fact, it has taken every bit of his will power to fight off the impulse of stealing off with this pile of treasure like a literal thief in the night.

However ... all that has changed since he discovered his newly found sorcerer powers. His hustle has now changed. No more going after petty crimes, Mortimer has now entered a whole new league ... a Woldian League of Adventurers. It's also nice being part of a gang again. Friends with powers and a desire for adventure. This opens up a whole new level of looting and stealing. Yes, the future is looking good.

"Should go by the apothecary and see if there are any healing potions to buy. We could certainly use some of those." He wonders if Grog could help out with that. If only there was a place where you could obtain all sorts of magical items.

Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.): hp:15/15. ac:13
Friday January 7th, 2022 10:41:09 PM
(ooc: Sorry, my writing has been absolutely horrendous lately. If only I could edit. :)

Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.): hp:15/15. ac:13
Saturday January 8th, 2022 1:22:25 PM
Making sure that Minerva is out of earshot, he then suggests, "We all should pay a visit to Ballo's farm. The bum-muppets could be squatting there, now that the place is vacant. A nice, proper hideout it is, with food stores and creature comforts."

He then thinks if there is anything worth pinching, that would be an added bonus.

DM Steve -- We got our weapons and we got our wits.
Saturday January 8th, 2022 1:41:26 PM
Mole patrols.
Manolo helps patrol.
Loryn plans to sleep until noon and then head out after the gremlins.
Stowe chooses the hammer when Drack offers, and names it Tenderizer.
Mortimer realizes the others have left him as treasurer of sorts, not sure he has earned their trust. He suggests getting some healing potions before they head out.
Torrynashkabbeth was glad to get the spear. She exercises and patrols.
Drack gives Stowe the option of cold iron weapons, thinking that he will use his sword.
Ash is quiet.

OOC: Most but not all character sheets are updated with HP rolled in the Loot ‘n Booty (the location is important). More in email.

The group has weapons in hand and is ready to go unless, like Mortimer suggested, they want to try to find healing in town.

Stowe; (Allen D); HP: 26; AC: 22; F: 5; R: 5; W: 1; CMD: 19
Saturday January 8th, 2022 2:28:15 PM
Stowe walks outside Minerva's with the hammer and inspects its haft for any damage or splintering. Finding it in order she starts practicing some swings. Its weight is different than the sword she's used to; heavier, but shorter. It works well with her shield though, as she shadow-boxes around the yard. She breaks a sweat; muscles she hasn't used in years protest at the strain, but it's a good start to getting proper fit again. She takes a break and splashes some water on her face, then grabs a bite to eat.

She heads to the edge of town, in the direction the gremlins came from, and stomps around for awhile, just getting used to wearing her armor and welding shield and hammer for long periods of time. She thinks to herself, they don't actually munch on bums, do they? looking back over her shoulder occasionally.

She takes a break to use her whetstone and sharpen her knives and javelin points. She checks each javelin, rolling them in her hands and sighting along their lengths, to make sure they haven't warped and are all straight and true.

After she's been out for a good amount of time she heads back to join the others. She checks her kit and repacks it, including several healing potions and a healer's kit.

OOC: I assume the hammer is a cold iron warhammer, 1d8, 20x3, and is not masterwork?

DM Edit: Yes, I should have been more specific. It is a warhammer, not a light hammer, not masterwork.

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 17/17 AC:15
Saturday January 8th, 2022 5:54:44 PM
Torryn was content to nap throughout much of the afternoon. She'd need to be alert when on patrol. Before heading out she took her time - time to stretch and practice her moves. they were still very new, but being somewhat dance-like in their nature, came naturally to her and she soon lost track of time as she worked through the various routines.

It was Stowe's return that alerted her to the present and somewhat sheepishly she presented herself to the rest, ready to patrol, again relying on that winning smile to get her out of any trouble.

"All ready to patrol." She asserted, planting the butt end of the spear emphatically on the floor.

Mole; (RichP) AC 18; HP 18/18; CMD 14
Sunday January 9th, 2022 11:41:57 AM
Mole takes the pearl and tucks it neatly away. He turns to the group "Just cause I got an extra spell for healing doesn't mean you kids* can be stupid." His gaze turns to Mort before turning heading off to finish packing his gear.

*Spoken in dwarven.

AC 13 HP 13/13 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K
Sunday January 9th, 2022 4:11:27 PM
He didn't know dwarf, but he did know Dwarves and the gnome can guess at the meaning of the word in the context. He just looks at the rest of the lot and smiles. "The farm is a good idea., Let's call that plan B if we don't find anything in the woods where Drack, Ash and Torry got jumped."

Loryn gestures for those three to lead and falls in behind

Spells
5-1st- Color Spray, Magic Weapon
0- Detect Magic, Read Magic, Mage Hand, Message, Mending

Gnome: 1/day Dancing Lights, Prestidigitation, Ghost Sound, Speak with Animals
Sorcerer Ray 7/ day 30' 1d6+1 Cast 0

Stowe; (Allen D); HP: 26; AC: 22; F: 5; R: 5; W: 1; CMD: 19
Sunday January 9th, 2022 5:24:05 PM
"I'd like to be near the front if it comes to a fight." Stowe chimes in. "Maybe you can be just a little stupid then!" she jokes in response to Mole, though she wasn't quite sure of one of the words he said. It clearly was some dwarven term of endearment.

She falls in with the group, trying to position herself just behind whomever is guiding them to the spot of the attack.

Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 15/15
Sunday January 9th, 2022 6:40:28 PM
Ash takes his time to memorize spells, and expecting a battle is more offensively prepared. He takes a quick bite before meeting with the rest, prepped for the gremlins

Spells:
Magic missle x3, enlarge person, sleep. Shocking grasp, hold portal

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 17/17 AC:15
Monday January 10th, 2022 8:41:27 AM
Torryn was happy to lead the way. She used her spear as walking stick, partially to test the ground ahead and partially because it was easier than actually carrying it. Despite the serious nature of the task at hand, she smiled. She took the time to admire the clouds in the sky, the colours around her and the scents carried on the breeze. There's be time enough to focus on the enemy soon enough she suspected. In the interim, she saw no point in cherishing the beauty around her. To others she likely looked distracted, but she didn't care. Life was too short not to appreciate the beauty around her.

Stowe; (Allen D); HP: 26; AC: 22; F: 5; R: 5; W: 1; CMD: 19 d20=11 ; d20+6=12 ;
Monday January 10th, 2022 9:06:54 AM
Stowe had been in these woods many times hunting, but typically her prey is plants that she's foraging. This time she keeps a wary lookout for anything dangerous. At least, she does when Torryn's shapely backside isn't distracting her. How come clothes never fit me like that? She clomps along behind the graceful half-elf.

OOC: attempting to roll perception, but being ham-fisted with the dice roller. Should be a 17, 11+6, but if i need to take the 12 because Torryn's distracting Stowe, I understand :)

Drack (Chris J) - hp 18/18 - AC 16 d20+8=24 ;
Monday January 10th, 2022 9:36:58 AM
Drack had thought that they may pick up some healing potions, but it looks like the group is ready to head out. Drack takes the lead, and motions Stowe up beside him. "We have point. watch the hills on each side, that was where the last traps were set. If something happens from one direction, be mindful, that is likely part of their plan to turn our attention away from another. They are tricky little monsters."

Drack leads the group towards where the last ambush happened, and once there, up to where he last saw them. He will scan the surrounding areas as best as possible for trouble or other signs of activity. (perception 24)

Manolo (Michael A) - HP 13/13 AC 17 d20+5=22 ;
Monday January 10th, 2022 6:54:41 PM
Manolo follows along and keeps a watchful eye along the surroundings.

Perception 22

OOC:will update the character sheet fully on the 12th, apologies.

Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.): hp:15/15. ac:13 d20+4=16 ;
Monday January 10th, 2022 8:06:49 PM
Mortimer walks around the Hamlet freely, with a confident swagger. He hasn't the slightest apprehension for reprisals or other dark designs for his demise. At least not until the 12th day. :) After the 12th day, he's not walking anywhere alone.

He gives his Woldian League badge a good shine, to make sure everyone around him can see it. Or at least momentarily blind others with it's reflective shine. However something about his badge suddenly startles him. The glyph molded into his badge, he realizes that he can now read it. Before it was just a pictographic symbol that had no real meaning to him. Sure, it meant something to scholars of antiquity, but for him it was nothing more than decoration. But now Mortimer can read its true meaning. Literal translation into Common, the glyph reads Pathfinder Fellowship of the Wold. "Am I going mad, when did I learn High Woldian?"

Mortimer then visits all the various apothecaries and potion brewers in Windhorn Hamlet. Looks to see if there are any cure potions for sale. If so, he will inquire about the prices. Possibly use his charm, if need be, to get a better deal. (Diplomacy: 16)

He will go see if he can speak to Grog. If the ogre is available, he will let him in on what they have discovered. He asks for his advice and anything that might help in hunting down and eradicating the gremlins. "As you know, my friends and I prevented a mob from burning Agatha at the stake. We unmasked the gremlin buggers and had quite the kerfuffle. The lil' bum-muppet bastards done near gutted me. I was lucky to survive, thanks to Wardd. I was told it would be wise to seek your counsel, Mr Grog."

DM Steve -- They are tricky little monsters. d100=21 ; d20=12 ;
Monday January 10th, 2022 10:23:10 PM
Mortimer looks for potions before the group heads out, and asks Grog for advice.
Torrynashkabbeth almost gets lost in the reverie of her exercises, until Stowe snaps her out of it. She leads the way to where the deadfall was.
Manolo follows along, watchful.
Ash prepares spells.
Loryn plans to start the search where the deadfall was, then move on to Ballo’s farm if need be.
Stowe practices with the hammer and otherwise prepares for a coming fight. Stowe would like to be near the front of the search party, and keeps an eye out.
Drack leads the way to where the deadfall was, offering advice on staying alert.
Mole takes the pearl but warns the others it is not a license to be careless.

Mortimer is able to find four potions of cure light wounds in the area, which he manages to talk down to 50 gp each if he wants to buy them. He visits Grog, who seems quite amused to be called Mr. Grog, and asks about fighting gremlins. Grog advises Mortimer that gremlins tend to be small and to work in groups. ”Don’t let them separate you from your friends. Don’t trust the tight spaces they might be able to squeeze into. They may turn on each other when there isn’t anyone else around, but they work well with each other against a common foe. Be careful.”

The group then follows the road out toward the Stanley and Aberstone farms, cautiously making their way to where the deadfall was. Debris on the side of the road still marks the location. There is no sign of gremlins there now, though.

Stowe; (Allen D); HP: 26/26; AC: 22; F: 5; R: 5; W: 1; CMD: 19 d20+6=15 ; d20+7=24 ; d20+8=26 ;
Monday January 10th, 2022 10:45:20 PM
As they move farther into the woods Stowe decides to step a few paces off the path and look for any gremlin tracks, edible plants, fungi, rare herbs, white truffles... but mostly gremlin tracks. She asks the group to slow down slightly, since it seems they left a couple members back in the village, and it may be good to let them catch up. She moves easily in the woods, clearly feeling at home and not hindered by branches or thorns. She listens for anything approaching, and takes occasional glances back toward the group.

OOC:
Roll perception (+6)
Roll survival (+6 + 1) (track)
Roll survival (+6 +2) (favored enemy: plants)

AC 13 HP 13/13 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K
Monday January 10th, 2022 10:46:29 PM
Loryn follows out the mark of the debris. "Well lets get up in the woods and see what we can see."

Spells
5-1st- Color Spray, Magic Weapon
0- Detect Magic, Read Magic, Mage Hand, Message, Mending

Gnome: 1/day Dancing Lights, Prestidigitation, Ghost Sound, Speak with Animals
Sorcerer Ray 7/ day 30' 1d6+1 Cast 0

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 17/17 AC:15 d20=12 ;
Tuesday January 11th, 2022 6:41:32 AM
"Oh, they've gone" Torryn observed somewhat needlessly. However, she hadn't really expected them to be waiting around to get get stabbed. She looked to the others for ideas and inspiration. Most of her creative thinking and imagination was preserved for dancing.

She looked around seeking to get a flavour of the terrain and striving to notice if anything felt 'other'. The Gremlins were subtle, so looking for an overall impression seemed to her. better than trying to spot something specifically amiss. Besides, she got to take in the ambience of the day. that could often be very inspiring.

[Perception 12+7. = 19 ]

Drack (Chris J) - hp 18/18 - AC 16
Tuesday January 11th, 2022 8:42:53 AM
Drack doesn’t bother going with Mortimer, as Drack doesn’t have nearly enough money to think about buying magic.

Drack waits until the group is all together, and leads them up the hill at Loryns direction. He will point out to everyone where he hunted them through the brush, and where the gremlins seemingly disappeared.

Mole; (RichP) AC 18; HP 18/18; CMD 14 d20+9=21 ;
Tuesday January 11th, 2022 9:38:52 AM
Mole walks at a dwarven pace down the road. He admires the countryside. Occasionally, he stops and checks the ground. He says a small prayer and asks for guidance. At a distance, it looks as if he is speaking to the earth.

Perception DC 21

Spells:
0 - Flare, Guidance, Light, Stabilize
1 - CLW, Faerie Fire, Shillelagh, (d) Magic Stone

Stowe; (Allen D); HP: 26/26; AC: 22; F: 5; R: 5; W: 1; CMD: 19
Tuesday January 11th, 2022 12:02:27 PM
OOC:
-Stowe's last post was actually typed before I refreshed and saw DM Steve's. I'd modify to match his update, since they aren't on the path now, but searching around the deadfall.
-After rereading I wanted to mention I wasn't trying to imply the group is moving too fast, just that mechanically Stowe's movement speed would be halved while she's searching for tracks.
-I wasn't sure if 'Track' applies when looking for tracks, or only when following them.
-I'm pretty sure the favored enemy bonus wouldn't apply when looking for mundane/benign vegetation, but I thought it was flavorful, just like those white truffles.

Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.): hp:15/15. ac:13
Tuesday January 11th, 2022 3:26:58 PM
(ooc: Did the potion shopping spree happen before the trip out to the farms, or is Mortimer left behind in the Hamlet?)

Manolo (Michael A) - HP 13/13 AC 17 d20+5=25 ;
Tuesday January 11th, 2022 7:15:52 PM
Manolo doesn't say anything and just looks around and listens to the wind..

Perception 25 (natural 20)

Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.): hp:15/15. ac:13 d20+1=3 ;
Tuesday January 11th, 2022 7:44:58 PM
Mortimer goes ahead and purchases the four cure light wound potions. This would give the gang six potions and should help relieving the strain on Mole from being the sole healer of the group (-200 gold from party treasure). Mortimer will secure one of the potions for himself. He will later deliver the rest of the gang and they claim the other three. He isn't sure who has the first two potions.

(Please claim one of the remaining three potions and add it to your character sheet.)

If Mortimer gets back in time before the gang leaves for the deadfall, he will join them as well. Since no one has claimed the masterwork dagger that they found on the drunk ogres at Grog's birthday, Mortimer decides to make good use of it, at least until they decide to trade it in for something else.

Along the way, he keeps his eyes and ears open for anything of interest (Perception: 3). Or maybe he spends his time looking at the fancy, perfectly-balanced, masterwork dagger. "This is the finest shiv I've ever did see! Yes it is! Aren't you a beauty."

Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 15/15 d20=12 ;
Tuesday January 11th, 2022 9:31:23 PM
Ash follows with the others, keeping an eye out for any of the gremlins and their wicked tricks. (Perception 12). He reaches into his cloak and pulls out Oslo. He lets the rat move around his arm and shoulder, before kissing him on the head and putting him back away.

DM Steve -- Oh, they've gone.
Tuesday January 11th, 2022 10:45:05 PM
Loryn looks at the debris.
Manolo looks and listens.
Mole admires the countryside and prays for guidance.
Mortimer hands out three potions of CLW that he purchased while others were resting or training. He tries to keep an eye out, but is distracted by his fine dagger.
Stowe tries tracking gremlins.
Torrynashkabbeth looks around for anything amiss.
Ash watches for gremlins and entertains his rat.
Drack points out where the trap was and where the gremlins were.

OOC: The potions of CLW the party found earlier went to Evred and Torryn, but Evred left his behind when he went on his sudden mission. Therefore Torryn and Mortimer are each holding one potion, and there are still four to divide. Please decide who has them and note it on your character sheets.

As they reach the area of the deadfall, Ash notices that Oslo become agitated. As they look around, Stowe is able to find a variety of what must be gremlin tracks, criss-crossing the area. She guesses that a decent amount of effort went into creating the trap, so that there are plenty of tracks here. Off in the direction that Drack points out as where he hunted them, the tracks narrow down to a few headed in one direction. Stowe follows those a short way when half of them disappear. But the others keep going.

Stowe and the others are able to follow the tracks for a while, but the small creatures took paths that are not well suited to most of the party. After a while, the bigger folk find themselves squeezing between trunks and in general realizing that they would be at a disadvantage if attacked here. The path leads them away from town toward the north west.

DC 8 geography or 12 local knowledge Highlight to display spoiler: {This is the direction of the eastern cliffs.}

Stowe; (Allen D); HP: 26/26; AC: 22; F: 5; R: 5; W: 1; CMD: 19 d20=6 ; d20+6=25 ; d20=11 ;
Wednesday January 12th, 2022 1:20:55 AM
When offered healing potions by Mort she turns them down. "I already have a couple (3), someone else could probably use them more, thank you."

Stowe searches around where half the tracks disappear. This is odd. Did half of them jump on the other's shoulders? She looks around the area thoroughly, trying to see where the others went. Are the footsteps pressed deeper in the dirt? Did half double back? She look for other tracks she missed, or holes or burrows in the ground where they could have gone.

When they reach the tightly-grown forest she pauses, realizing what's beyond. "The eastern cliffs are just through these trees. Should we circle around to them directly? I think I know another path that leads there."

->OOC: Again, the big buttons up top are just too inviting and I forget to add modifiers. First roll is survival (+6) to track (+1), so should be 13 total.

->Second roll is perception

->Third is geography.

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 17/17 AC:15 d20=19 ;
Wednesday January 12th, 2022 6:38:50 AM
The cliffs: they'd been here before. It was where they'd met the fawn, but they'd found no other clues about the whereabouts of the gremlins. Still, if Stowe knew of a different path, that would be worth exploring.

"Yes, let's try that other path, Stowie." Torryn encouraged with a winning smile.

[OOC: Know Local, 19. Torryn won't claim any potions - she now has 2 (see sheet). Can anyone tell me how to put italics and bold into these posts?]

Stowe; (Allen D); HP: 26/26; AC: 22; F: 5; R: 5; W: 1; CMD: 19
Wednesday January 12th, 2022 8:15:58 AM
->OOC: you want [ ] around a letter b for bold or letter i for italic, then /b or /i inside [ ] to turn it off. With parentheses instead of brackets it would look like:

(b)bold words and stuff (i)italic AND bold words(/i) just bold again(/b) regular text.

If combining effects you have to turn off the last thing you turned on, I'm pretty sure. IE: b, i, /i, /b pattern would parse, b, i, /b /i would not.

->Stowe was referring to the way the party took previously to get to the cliffs. I had read that the party was there before, and assumed she would know the way.

AC 13 HP 13/13 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K
Wednesday January 12th, 2022 8:43:02 AM
The gnome follows and keeps his eyes and ears about, though he was not so perceptive and many in the group likely were, no sense looking down at your boots.
Loryn will take one of the offered potions of healing, quite impressed in Mortimer's cash flow. Gravedigging pays far better than assistant cooks it would seem and then again gravedigging was far less appealing and so it made sense.

"If the Gremlins can blink, perhaps they do so down the cliff. Now that we know more of what we are looking for and we have narrowed down where along the cliffs to look, I would say the cliffs are worth another visit."

"If one of you big strapping young folk have rope, I could be lowered down a ways and run along the cliff face in either direction a few hundred feet to see what I can see."

Spells
5-1st- Color Spray, Magic Weapon
0- Detect Magic, Read Magic, Mage Hand, Message, Mending

Gnome: 1/day Dancing Lights, Prestidigitation, Ghost Sound, Speak with Animals
Sorcerer Ray 7/ day 30' 1d6+1 Cast 0

Drack (Chris J) - hp 18/18 - AC 16
Wednesday January 12th, 2022 9:54:50 AM
Drack will accept a potion. "Thanks. Don't have any of these. A little short on funds."

He follows Stowe around to the cliffs with the rest of the group. "I've got 50 feet of rope Loryn. Seems like a good idea...unless they are watching and attack us while someone is holding the rope, and you are dangling above a hefty fall."

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 17/17 AC:15
Wednesday January 12th, 2022 12:13:52 PM
"I think it's very heroic of you, Loryn." Torryn chimed in. If you'd rather I go though, I don't mind. I mean, I trust Dracky to hold me. I'm really not that heavy. Plus I could jab with the spear if anything pops out of a hole." She regarded herself as moderately perceptive and had a knack for creeping about when necessary, but was no climber. Without the rope, she'd be stuck; well and truly stuck. Still, she wasn't about to let Loryn go without at least offering to take his place. Nor was she particularly reluctant to descend via the rope. It would be exciting and she trusted her friends to keep her safe. Of course, if it was Loryn that went, she would do her very best to ensure that the gnome stayed safe.

Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.): hp:15/15. ac:13
Wednesday January 12th, 2022 12:35:08 PM
"Whoa! Dontcha think we should find more evidence that the buggers are down there before we start dangling our healthy bits over this crag?"

Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.): hp:15/15. ac:13
Wednesday January 12th, 2022 12:38:27 PM
(ooc: Either this evening or sometime this week, I will add a Party Treasure section to my character sheet so we can better keep track of it.)

Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 15/15
Wednesday January 12th, 2022 6:43:04 PM
Ash takes a potion when offered, and stows it In his bag. "Whats gotcha jumpy(B) Oslo(/b)" he asks the rat, but doesn't take him out.

Following the others, and noticing the tightening of the trees, he begins to get nervous.

" Ladies and gents.. I am an educated man, but one doesn't have to be educated to see these trees are playing the terrain to our gremlin friends. Perhaps backtrack and go the other way to the cliffs. Turn the tables as they say on our enemies "

Manolo (Michael A) - HP 13/13 AC 17 d20+6=26 ;
Wednesday January 12th, 2022 8:24:49 PM
"I agree, we will be in a huge disadvantage if we continue to move towards the eastern cliffs in this ", he points out ahead, "Perfect place to ambush us"

Local Knowledge 26( natural 20)

Mole; (RichP) AC 18; HP 18/18; CMD 14 d20+11=31 ;
Wednesday January 12th, 2022 10:38:56 PM
"Let's look for another way down first." Mole says. "If Loryn get's attacked on the rope, who's going to be able to help? Doesn't sound like a good idea ta me."

"Just give me a little bit to look around first."

Mole will search the area for a path or similar means to get down the cliff.

Survival DC 31

DM Steve -- Perfect place to ambush us
Wednesday January 12th, 2022 10:58:47 PM
Torrynashkabbeth suggests trying another path to reach the cliffs. She offers to take Loryn’s place on the rope.
Mole searches for an alternate route.
Drack agrees with the others they should go around. He notes that he has some rope.
Stowe finds no indication of holes or burrows when she tries to figure where some of the gremlins went. As she continues to follow what she can, she realizes they are headed towards the cliffs.
Loryn speculates that the gremlins may have magical ways down a cliff. He offers to search a cliff face from the end of a rope.
Manolo points out that continuing would be a perfect place for them to be ambushed.
Mortimer thinks it’s a bit premature to be hanging over the side of a cliff.
Ash tries to figure out what’s bothering Oslo. (Through his empathic link, Ash realizes there is a smell that bothers Oslo.) The tightening terrain unnerves Ash, and he suggests they go around.

As the group head around a large thicket, they come upon a trail. The trail leads to the top of the cliffs about half a mile northeast of Windhorm Hamlet. This area is noted for its rocky outcroppings, rough terrain, and scrubby pines and junipers. Not being suitable for farming or grazing, it is mostly avoided. The trail leads to the top of bluff. Mole finds a small game trail leading down to a crevasse in the rocky walls of the steep, rocky slope.

The party has a choice of paths now.

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 17/17 AC:15 d20=19 ;
Thursday January 13th, 2022 5:42:51 AM
It made sense: don't go through the ambush-perfect terrain, find a safer path, don't risk someone's life needlessly. Why hadn't she said all that? The truth was, she hadn't even considered any of those points. Again, she was swept up in the heat of the moment. Torryn said nothing, thinking that she'd embarrass herself far less that way. She followed along doing her best to be alert for any danger, but feeling rather inadequate.to the task.

[Perception: 19+7=26]

Torryn, wanting to feel useful, was keen to lead down the precipitous trail. However, having hardly covered herself in glory of late, she stood silently and waited for wiser heads to prevail: wiser being everyone else.

Stowe; (Allen D); HP: 26/26; AC: 22; F: 5; R: 5; W: 1; CMD: 19
Thursday January 13th, 2022 7:16:06 AM
Looking down the steep cliff Stowe feels a little uncomfortable. She's not 'scared' of heights, per se, she just isn't in love with them. Something about being in armour and carrying a heavy shield make her feel just a touch ungainly. It's not a pleasant feeling on the edge of a precipice. Should I take off my breastplate? Being a pincushion won't be any more comfortable.

The path to the top looks easier, but she thinks they're more likely to find creatures on the lower game path. Could they split up? "We won't be able to fight but in single file on that lower path, and if something was up top it looks like they could throw boulders down on us. I could go with a team to secure the clifftop, or maybe we could just scout it first, to be safe?"

"Also, does anyone have any climbing gear? I just have some rope."

OOC: Happy to go either way. Not sure if the concern of gremlins up top pushing boulders down on us is possible or reasonable from the description.

Drack (Chris J) - hp 18/18 - AC 16
Thursday January 13th, 2022 7:48:17 AM
“We shouldn’t split up Stowe. We still don’t know how many there are. Dividing our forces would make a much easier hit upon half the group.”

“I don’t have any climbing gear, we will just have to move carefully and watch our footing.”

“I’m thinking the crevasse is the way to go. They are going to be in a hole in the rocks somewhere, protected from the weather, but I will defer to the brainy folks.”

Drack will lead the party in the direction chosen.

Stowe; (Allen D); HP: 26/26; AC: 22; F: 5; R: 5; W: 1; CMD: 19 d20+6=20 ;
Thursday January 13th, 2022 8:05:40 AM
"But if they can blink like Loryn said, what's to stop from popping up top to drop rocks on our heads? I'd rather split up than try to come back up the path against that."

She surveys the land (perception, 20) to get an idea of how dangerous it might be to get trapped on the narrow path. Could they even see us to attack from above?

AC 13 HP 13/13 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K
Thursday January 13th, 2022 8:20:23 AM
Loryn moves along, personally he was quite happy to not be dangling over the cliff at the end of a rope, but was willing and as it was his idea, he couldn't suggest someone else to be doing it. Now, though, they had other options. "I agree with Drack on both counts. Splitting up against an unknown force seems a bad idea and also that the little critters are in some dark hidey hole. Stowe you make a good point, no mistake, but I would like to give Wardd a rub and see if we can get down the trail. They don't necessarily know we are here."

"Torry, you got a good set of eyes in that head of yours, I think you lead and keep them peeled for trip wires and alarms of some kind. The rest can follow into the crevice"

Spells
5-1st- Color Spray, Magic Weapon
0- Detect Magic, Read Magic, Mage Hand, Message, Mending

Gnome: 1/day Dancing Lights, Prestidigitation, Ghost Sound, Speak with Animals
Sorcerer Ray 7/ day 30' 1d6+1 Cast 0

Stowe; (Allen D); HP: 26/26; AC: 22; F: 5; R: 5; W: 1; CMD: 19
Thursday January 13th, 2022 11:43:32 AM
"Does anyone have some sort of magic that would let me jump from a high place and land safely? I could go up alone and try to defend you from attack from above, or at least delay them to give you time to get clear. If nothing shows up I could jump down to you."

Stowe doesn't like this plan at all. Floating through the air out away from the cliff? Her palms sweat and tingle just thinking about it. But she doesn't like the look of the steep and narrow cliffside path one bit. Eight people in a line, with no space to maneuver? One gremlin in front and one behind could pin us in place, and then we're dead meat.

OOC: I'm happy with going down the path! Stowe won't mention it again, unless the DM gives us some clue that it's a smart course of action. I generally don't want to split the party either, but she's got these guard instincts that get in the way.

Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.): hp:15/15. ac:13 d20+1=18 ;
Thursday January 13th, 2022 3:40:58 PM
Mortimer isn't sure what to do next. He does NOT like the idea of climbing down a jagged rock face. So as a precaution, he casts Detect Magic and begins to scan the area and trees for magical traps or spell effects.

(Mortimer casts Detect Magic. Range: 60-ft. Duration: Concentration, up to 2 minutes.)

(Perception: 18)

Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 15/15
Thursday January 13th, 2022 3:52:05 PM
"Woh...woh... hold on" Ash excitedly whispers. "Oslosmells something that's unerving him. " He walks to where the choice between the paths is, and places the white rat on the ground.. [i] telepathically[/1].. "my friend, which way is the Unnerving smell stronger?"

Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 15/15
Thursday January 13th, 2022 3:52:34 PM
"Woh...woh... hold on" Ash excitedly whispers. "Oslo smells something that's unerving him. " He walks to where the choice between the paths is, and places the white rat on the ground.. telepathically.. "my friend, which way is the Unnerving smell stronger?"

Mole; (RichP) AC 18; HP 18/18; CMD 14 d20+11=27 ; d20+9=12 ;
Thursday January 13th, 2022 4:23:52 PM
Mole moves along the trail watching for dangerous areas.

Survival DC27, Perception DC 12

Manolo (Michael A) - HP 13/13 AC 17 d20+5=12 ;
Thursday January 13th, 2022 5:54:47 PM
Manolo is confused as he is not sure which path to take and it affected him.
He was less focused on what he heard and saw and more and more began to feel confused and anxious by saying, "You don't think they have guided us to here by knowing that he would expect a ambush..."
Perception 12

DM Steve -- I agree with Drack on both counts.
Thursday January 13th, 2022 10:32:43 PM
Manolo is confused. He seems worried they might have been guided here.
Drack thinks the crevasse is the way to go, and prepares to take the lead.
Stowe worries about an ambush from above if they take the lower path. She thinks they should scout the upper path, or at least send one up in case of trouble below.
Ash puts Olso down, to assess the threat. It isn’t telepathy, but it’s still clear that Oslo finds the small path down more disturbing than the path up.
Torrynashkabbeth is eager to lead the way down the small trail, but waits.
Mole looks for danger.
Loryn agrees with Drack. He suggests Torryn lead, to look for trouble.
Mortimer casts a detect magic and scans the area. He sees no magic in the trees or terrain.

The consensus seems to be to take the lower trail and not to split up the party. Going down the steep hillside, the trail proves not to be difficult for any of the group to navigate in single file. Oslo is not happy with this, and climbs back onto Ash. Mole notes that the place seems to be well hidden from above. The trail switches back twice, descending about 20’ before ending in a small opening in the rocks. This is about four feet wide and five feet tall.

(OOC: Asking for marching order here.)

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 17/17 AC:15 d20=7 ;
Friday January 14th, 2022 7:14:17 AM
Torryn was happy to lead the group onwards. It felt good to be useful. At the entryway in the rocks, she paused. She peered in and sniffed.

[Perception: 7+7=14.]

She blinked a few times getting her eyes accustomed to the gloom within before actually entering. She saw well at night, far better than most, but if it was utterly dark, she was as disadvantaged as the next person. She held her spear lightly in one hand, ready to thrust if necessary, but her left hand fidgeting. her fingers twitched. Her Feu Spark would likely hit truer than her spear. Torryn would have no hesitation in using it should the need arise.

The low ceiling was of no great concern. Torryn stood only a little over five feet in height and would only have to stoop or bend slightly.

[OOC: Torryn will happily take point, but should anyone else ask to do so, she will simply acquiesce and place herself wherever she bid stand. I am assuming that the ceiling within is the same height. It may not be. She will try to assess that fact by looking in.]

Stowe; (Allen D); HP: 26/26; AC: 22; F: 5; R: 5; W: 1; CMD: 19 d20+6=8 ; d20+1=15 ;
Friday January 14th, 2022 8:06:51 AM
Stowe surveyed the cave opening, looking for any sign that it could cave-in, or for any trap left by these creatures. Distracted by the plummeting landscape just behind, she doesn't see much (perception = 8).

"Would you all prefer me up at the front, or should I act as a rearguard in case there's an ambush? " She whispers, careful of her voice carrying into the cave. When she starts walking in she'll move as quietly as possible (stealth = 15).

Drack (Chris J) - hp 18/18 - AC 16 d20+8=20 ;
Friday January 14th, 2022 8:52:57 AM
"I think tactically, I should take point with Torry. I have Elven vision, same as she does. Stowe, you should take rear in case they come in or blink behind us. I think Mole should be at the center. If something really bad happens on either end, your healing could be a lifesaver. Everyone else can slide in wherever their particular talents will be of most benefit."

When they head in, Drack will draw and keep his Elven Longsword out. (Perception 20)

Stowe; (Allen D); HP: 26/26; AC: 22; F: 5; R: 5; W: 1; CMD: 19
Friday January 14th, 2022 9:47:58 AM
Stowe nods in agreement, her Tenderizer at the ready. She looks are her rather full hands. "Would whomever stands just before me have a free hand to hold my torch of eternal flame?" She sets her shield down and removes her pack, pulling the torch out of its pocket.

[Ooc: If nobody will take it, or offer another light source, she will strap her shield to her pack and carry the everburning torch herself. (-3AC)]

Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 17/17 d20+1=10 ;
Friday January 14th, 2022 11:43:03 AM
Ash sticks to the middle of the group. With no armor, and no mundane weapons he was the weakest spot in a knights armor. his eyes dart around, but Oslo's fright is making Ash a little nervous. (Perception 10).

Spells:
1st
Magic missle , enlarge person, sleep, hold portal

AC 13 HP 13/13 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K
Friday January 14th, 2022 3:10:32 PM
Loryn nods as Ash tells the group about Oslo's feelings. "Sounds like we are on the right track then.:

He follows a few people behind Torry, namely Drack, Stowe and Mole, until they all arrive at the crevice. "How much can you suck it in?" he asks Drack and Stowe

"Manolo, Why don't you see if there are any boobytraps before Drak tries to find them. After that, I agree with you Drack. I'll be right behind you and when we find them I'll make your blade magical. Ash Mortimer and Myself can carry torches. Hey Stowe, Just jam that torch into your belt. It does give off heat and that way you always have light and your shield."

Party order...Drack...Torry...Loryn...Mole...Ash...Mortimer...Manolo...Stowe

Spells
5-1st- Color Spray, Magic Weapon
0- Detect Magic, Read Magic, Mage Hand, Message, Mending

Gnome: 1/day Dancing Lights, Prestidigitation, Ghost Sound, Speak with Animals
Sorcerer Ray 7/ day 30' 1d6+1 Cast 0

Drack (Chris J) - hp 18/18 - AC 16
Friday January 14th, 2022 5:03:20 PM
D nods at Loryn. “Sounds good. I hadn’t been thinking about it, but they do seem to be fond of traps.”

Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.): hp:15/15. ac:13 d20+1=12 ;
Friday January 14th, 2022 8:59:13 PM
Mortimer suppresses his laugh, but he can't stop a wicked grin from forming across his face. No matter how old he's become, the word booby trap is still funny as ever.

As they enter the cave, Mortimer can sense the souls of those long passed that still linger. The gremlins weren't the first to make this a hiding place. "Well isn't this lovely ... tight and cozy? A nice hideaway if you're into open air concept."

Mortimer is fine with Loryn's suggestion of marching order. As long as there is plenty of meat between him and those bloody spiked chains of theirs. "Oh, if we need a good light, I have a lantern." He takes a moment to light his hooded lantern and it produces a nice even glow.

(Perception: 12)

Manolo (Michael A) - HP 13/13 AC 17 d20+5=24 ;
Friday January 14th, 2022 9:10:15 PM
Manolo keeps an eye for traps after Drack and Loryn idea.

Perception 25 (24+1 trapfinding feat)

Stowe; (Allen D); HP: 26/26; AC: 22; F: 5; R: 5; W: 1; CMD: 19
Friday January 14th, 2022 9:52:13 PM
Stowe laughs, "Ha! Just put it in your belt! I bet those fools wasting money on ioun torches feel pretty dumb!"

She chuckles to herself as she wedges in into her belt on her shield side, angled forward. She feels rather smug, though she winces as it prods her in the ribs, and as she tries to walk her legs jostle it, making the light and shadows dance around.

She starts to follow the party into the cave, noticing the stark shadows cast by her shield and hammer. They make it quite hard to focus on any details, the light jittering and jumping around. I'd probably see better just from what lights the others carry. She pauses and puts the torch away, dropping behind the group a bit. Then she hurries to catch up, hoping she doesn't trip on any rocks.

OOC: everburning torch still available if anyone would like to carry it

Mole; (RichP) AC 18; HP 18/18; CMD 14 d20+11=26 ; d20+9=14 ;
Saturday January 15th, 2022 10:58:12 AM
Mole doesn't see any problems with the plan. His darkvision puts him on even footing with the creatures in the cave and his natural dwarven senses give him the ability to locate dangers in the underground.

"We going in without any light?" He says. "That's fine with me, but seems I'm the only one that can see in the dark."

Survival DC26 (looking for natural pitfalls and other natural dangers); Perception 14 (16 to notice unusual stonework or traps)

Spells:
0 - Flare, Guidance, Light, Stabilize
1 - CLW, Faerie Fire, Shillelagh, (d) Magic Stone

Acid bolt 7/day (1d6+1)

Stowe; (Allen D); HP: 26/26; AC: 22; F: 5; R: 5; W: 1; CMD: 19
Saturday January 15th, 2022 11:13:12 AM
"You're right, of course." Stowe says to Mole. "Going in without light would be foolhardy. If only someone had some magical way to make my shield glow. " She sighs, knowing that's probably impossible.

DM Steve -- A nice hideaway if you're into open air concept. d20+9=29 ;
Saturday January 15th, 2022 11:28:30 AM
Mole agrees with Loryn’s plan. He can see in the dark, but worries that the others can’t.
Stowe asks where she should be and offers an everburning torch to whoever would like to carry it. As best she could, she looked into the cave. Stowe admits she would like it if her shield provided light.
Ash wants to be in the middle of the group. Oslo is making him nervous.
Mortimer finds the words booby trap funny. He has a lantern. He agrees with Loryn’s idea for a marching order.
Manolo looks for traps before the party enters.
Drack suggests where to place a few of the group, with the others filling in as they see best. He draws his sword.
Torrynashkabbeth looked into the hole in the rocks, and the small chamber behind it.
Loryn suggests Manolo look for traps, and expands Drack’s suggestion into a complete marching order: Drack...Torry...Loryn...Mole...Ash...Mortimer...Manolo...Stowe He suggests that he, Ash, and Mortimer carry lights.

The first thing Manolo notices is a smooth rock on the floor of the entrance, and the snare around it. He has to point the snare out carefully, since no one else seems to understand what it is. Even Mole, who notices a clear (to him) mix of natural and worked stone – and who says, by the way, that the “smooth rock” Manolo noticed isn’t really rock at all – doesn’t see the snare without help.

At this point, the group is still outside, and the trap is still there.

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 17/17 AC:15 d20=6 ;
Saturday January 15th, 2022 12:50:31 PM
"I could carry that torch."{/b} Torryn informed Stowe. [b]"But as we've three nominated, it would be better of one of them held it. You certainly should have your shield. Oh and me following Dracky makes sense; my spear has more reach than his sword, so I should probably be able to target anything he's fighting."

Torryn then quietly invoked her magic and it was as if ghostly leaves fell about her on some unfelt breeze. (Mage Armour: duration, 1 hour. Now AC: 20.)

"I can shove that trap thing with the butt of my spear if you want." She offered. She wasn't really sure about the whole 'trap' thing. it looked like a stone.

[OOC: 6+7=13 Perception, but may be more ; it's been pointed out.]

Stowe; (Allen D); HP: 26/26; AC: 22; F: 5; R: 5; W: 1; CMD: 19
Saturday January 15th, 2022 2:21:29 PM
Stowe stays well back from the snare in the cave entrance. Her hands are dexterous and precise when it's time to battonet some carrots, but taking apart fiddly springs and mechanical contraptions? No thank you. She hopes the trap won't bring the rocks above down on them, and she backs away from the cave entrance, instinctively flexing the hand that grips her shield.

"Shouldn't we disarm it instead of setting it off? Then they wouldn't know we're here." She calls softly to the front of the party, hoping there's someone with more skill than her with such things.

OOC: Seriously Mole, can you help a sister out and put that light cantrip on her shield? DMs said i wasn't allowed to magically grow a third arm to hold a torch, sadly... or tie it to the shield with twine. Basically you have 2 hands and can only hold 2 things, RAW.

Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 15/15
Saturday January 15th, 2022 2:52:15 PM
"Drats.. sometimes I get inside my own head too far."
He steps up to Stowe, pulls out a firefly, moves his hand to pantomime the rays of the sun... " Echassius solarius".... Cast Light on Stowe's shield. " Now, don't think this is permanent. I might think im a mighty wizard in my own head, but this is only going to last you 20 minutes.. tops. " he says with a smile.

Spells:
0-Level
Read Magic, Detect Magic. Daze, Light(x)
1st
Magic missle , enlarge person, sleep, hold portal

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 17/17 AC:15 d20=16 ;
Saturday January 15th, 2022 6:42:16 PM
"I think Manolo said he'd take a look at it." Torryn replied to Stowe's query regarding the trap. What she advocated certainly made sense. Torryn hadn't known that such things were possible. However, if the trap needed to be activated, she could do so from a safe distance. She looked to Maolo and then back into the cave mouth. Was there anything else to be discerned?

[Perception: 16+7=23]

AC 13 HP 13/13 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K
Sunday January 16th, 2022 10:55:58 AM
Loryn tells Stowe to hand forward the everburning torch. "I'll carry that." With the trap pointed out Loryn pats Manolo on the back, 'Well done now why don't you disarm that, so they don't know we are here and none of our more agile friends step on it anyway."

Ash lights up Stowes shield and that took care of that. The Everburing torch and that Light spell gave the two elves and himself, more than enough light to see by. "If we come into a larger chamber, I have a light i can use 1 time to see pretty good for about a minute." Although even as he says it, he doesn't believe this little crack is going to improve much in size. Stowe and Drack will have to make do

Spells
5-1st- Color Spray, Magic Weapon
0- Detect Magic, Read Magic, Mage Hand, Message, Mending

Gnome: 1/day Dancing Lights, Prestidigitation, Ghost Sound, Speak with Animals
Sorcerer Ray 7/ day 30' 1d6+1 Cast 0

Stowe; (Allen D); HP: 26/26; AC: 22; F: 5; R: 5; W: 1; CMD: 19
Sunday January 16th, 2022 1:22:14 PM
Stowe looks at her glowing shield and grins like a little girl. Incredible. I wish I could do things like this.

She looks up the path and watches for any attackers while the others handle the trap.

Ooc: thanks!

Mole; (RichP) AC 18; HP 18/18; CMD 14 d20+11=25 ; d20+9=18 ;
Monday January 17th, 2022 8:51:12 AM
Mole watches as the trap gets disarmed. He keeps a watch.

Survival DC25, Perception DC18

Spells:
0 - Flare, Guidance, Light, Stabilize
1 - CLW, Faerie Fire, Shillelagh, (d) Magic Stone

Acid bolt 7/day (1d6+1)

Drack (Chris J) - hp 18/18 - AC 16 d20+8=25 ;
Monday January 17th, 2022 11:21:39 AM
Drack waits for the trap to be disarmed and then leads the party further, watching for more traps as he goes.(perception 25).

Stowe; (Allen D); HP: 26/26; AC: 22; F: 5; R: 5; W: 1; CMD: 19 d20+6=8 ;
Monday January 17th, 2022 12:47:14 PM
After the trap is disarmed Stowe waits for the others to go into the cave, then glancing backwards once more up the trail, she falls in line behind them. She shines her shield around at everything with a grin still plastered to her face. Though she's distracted, she does try to keep an ear out for anything sneaking up behind the group (perception = 6).

Manolo (Michael A) - HP 13/13 AC 17 d20+8=21 ;
Monday January 17th, 2022 2:30:45 PM
Manolo tries to explain what he sees.
He proceeds to disable the trap as quickly as possible.
Saying to Drack "Careful, we don't know what more kinds of traps or surprises they have in mind for us"

disable device 21

Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.): hp:15/15. ac:13 d20+1=15 ;
Monday January 17th, 2022 6:38:34 PM
Mortimer sets all other sarcastic remarks aside for now. Though he does wonder why he's incapable of casting light spells; like all the other finger wigglers. He does decide to renew his Detect Magic spell. If the traps were magical, he wasn't sure if Manolo could effect them by mechanical means, not without springing the traps himself.

"I offer up my spectre (unseen servant) to set off the trap. He wouldn't mind, won't feel a thing."

Mortimer extends his magical gaze (Detect Magic) as far as it will go into the cave (60ft). (Perception: 15)

DM Steve -- Careful, we don't know what more kinds of traps or surprises they have in mind for us
Monday January 17th, 2022 10:16:58 PM
Manolo tries to disable the trap, only to realize that it’s magic. He does well, not setting it off in the attempt, but does not disable it..
Drack waits for the trap to be dealt with.
Stowe avoids getting near the trap, and drops hints about getting a more manageable light source.
Ash casts light on Stowe’s shield.
Torrynashkabbeth offers to carry Stowe’s torch, or help trigger the trap. She prepares her mage armor. But she realizes others are ready for the torch, and Manolo will deal with the trap.
Mole keeps watch while Manolo works on the trap.
Loryn takes the everburning torch, and encourages Manolo. He mentions being able to light a larger area, but doesn’t really think they will find one.
Mortimer checks the area for magic. (The trap is faint transmutation. He sees no other magic ahead.) He offers an unseen servant to set off the trap.

Manolo learns more about the trap in his attempt to disarm it. He thinks it is like the ropes they encountered before, during the shocker lizard attack at the boarding house. Picking up that rock, or stepping into the loop of vine around the rock, will set off the trap. He can try to disable it again, but realizes it will not be easy (DC 23, and if he misses badly he will set it off).

On the other hand, positioned where it is it cannot be easily stepped around by the larger members of the group. (Medium creatures trying to jump in the cave will incur a penalty, but it is not a difficult jump -- DC 9 including the penalty.)

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 17/17 AC:15
Tuesday January 18th, 2022 7:51:30 AM
She really needed to work on her jumping. Oh, she could jump, for sure, but it wasn't exactly a strength in her dancing repertoire. Still, she wasn't going to shy from the task if that was what was required.

"I can try to jump in if you want?" She offered. She was far from the tallest, wasn't armoured and had good agility. She figured that she had a better than even chance of success

"If we can bypass the trap, that would be good, but if not, I can sort of replicate the 'spectre' thing - with a Fey Hand. Of course, that will set the trap off. I guess it's whether Manny. wants another bash at it." Bashing a trap. It wasn't her best choice of words. She hoped that her intent was clearer.

Drack (Chris J) - hp 18/18 - AC 16
Tuesday January 18th, 2022 7:58:58 AM
“Seems like the magical hand thing is a good idea. If Manolo isn’t taking another crack at it, I’d say give it a try, but it’s up to all you magic using people.”

“Sounds like letting that invisible servant guy might be a good choice to lead the way after this though. Magic isn’t my area, so I’ll let you all figure it out until I have something to fight.”

AC 13 HP 13/13 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K
Tuesday January 18th, 2022 8:06:40 AM
Loryn suggests going with setting it off. "We back up a tad and use a Mage Hand Simple spell and save the servant in case the hand does not work or we could use it later. Going with Manolo being right and it is like the rope snare we saw at Minerva's. It won't be loud and shouldn't alert anything by setting it off."

Loryn nods to Torry after the group takes a couple steps back, "Fey away" he says with a slight smile

Spells
5-1st- Color Spray, Magic Weapon
0- Detect Magic, Read Magic, Mage Hand, Message, Mending

Gnome: 1/day Dancing Lights, Prestidigitation, Ghost Sound, Speak with Animals
Sorcerer Ray 7/ day 30' 1d6+1 Cast 0

Stowe; (Allen D); HP: 26/26; AC: 22; F: 5; R: 5; W: 1; CMD: 19
Tuesday January 18th, 2022 8:56:03 AM
Did someone say jump?[/] Stowe thinks. Sure, she's lithe and athletic and muscular, but not in armor. She does a little practice hop to see how it feels and barely clears the height of two pies. [I]No no no, that won't do at all. I could take off my armor and toss my shield to someone on the other side, but that's probably when they would attack. Maybe poking with a stick is the best idea.

She waits while the others discuss options, having little to contribute, but hoping there's no more talk of jumping.

Mole; (RichP) AC 18; HP 18/18; CMD 14 d20+9=23 ; d20+11=15 ;
Tuesday January 18th, 2022 10:04:43 AM
Mole nods in agreement with setting the trap off. He backs away and waits while keeping an eye out for dangers.

Perception DC23, Survival DC15

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 17/17 AC:15
Tuesday January 18th, 2022 5:43:13 PM
"No problem." Torryn replied confidently. She hadn't actually done this before, but surely it couldn't be that difficult....could it?

"Let's back up to be safe." She suggested. That done she called forth the Fey Hand to move the stone.

[OOC: Has 25' range and can move up to 5lbs in weight]

Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.): hp:15/15. ac:13 d20+1=17 ;
Tuesday January 18th, 2022 7:07:16 PM
Mortimer is perfectly fine with the plan proposed by Loryn.

IF Torryn's Fey Hand doesn't do the trick, he will summon his Spectral Servant. He will direct his servant to pickup a rock, of 10 pounds or more, and carry it into the cave. The rock is needed for extra weight and something solid for the trap to grab on to. Especially if it's anything like the rope traps he witnessed back at Minerva's. Mortimer will move with his servant just enough to keep him within range (30').

(Perception: 17)

Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 15/15
Tuesday January 18th, 2022 8:00:39 PM
Traps where not his specialty, so the wizard stays back. He watches the others, seeing if they would need any help, but doubting they would.

Manolo (Michael A) - HP 13/13 AC 17 d20+8=10 ; d20=2 ;
Tuesday January 18th, 2022 9:49:14 PM

Manolo feels confident and tries to disable the trap despite having good intentions.

'I can do it', he thinks as he get confused all while some members of the party tries to help.

Disable device 10
Aid another 2
OOC: sorry epic fail ):
OOC2: No taksies backsies ? rolled disable device and aid another and failed.

DM Steve -- Let's back up to be safe.
Tuesday January 18th, 2022 10:32:01 PM
Mole backs off to be out of the way when the trap is set off.
Stowe worries about being able to jump in armor. She would rather poke the trap with a stick.
Ash watches from a distance.
Mortimer gets ready to try a different spell if Torryn’s doesn’t set off the trap.
Manolo decides to try to disarm the trap again.
Drack agrees with setting off the trap with magic, or with Manolo trying again.
Torrynashkabbeth is willing to jump, but offers to set off the trap with a Fey Hand. She asks people to back up for safety.
Loryn goes along with setting off the trap.

While the rest of the group backs up to be away when the trap is sprung, Manolo tries to disarm it. Things don’t go well.

The trap is indeed a magical snare like the ones they’ve seen before, and it wraps around Manolo as he works on it. Manolo is entangled in the vine. Meanwhile, the smooth rock that was in the trap goes skittering into the nearest wall, where it explodes. Very loudly.

Fortunately, Manolo was the only one near the trap when it was sprung. Manolo: Make a DC 15 fortitude save. If it fails, then. . . Highlight to display spoiler: {Manolo is deafened if he failed the save.}

Unfortunately, as the explosion echoes in the chambers in the cliffside it would seem that the party no longer has the element of surprise.

Here is a map.

Stowe; (Allen D); HP: 26/26; AC: 22; F: 5; R: 5; W: 1; CMD: 19 d20+6=25 ; d20+6=21 ;
Tuesday January 18th, 2022 10:44:39 PM
"Oh bananas!" Shouts Stowe, as the echoes of the explosion rattle through the cave. She grips Tenderizer tightly and spins, looking for any threat (perception 25).

She glances up the cliffs to check if there's any rockslide that may have been triggered (survival 21).

She's alert and watchful, ready to keep any bum munchers off of any bums.

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 17/17 AC:15 d20=8 ; d20=4 ;
Wednesday January 19th, 2022 7:15:30 AM
"Exploding rocks." Whispered Torryn in awe. Such things would be very difficult to spot. She could only hope that they were not easily made and so would be very few in number. One was a good low number. She looked to Manolo, hoping he'd been able to avoid the worst of the trap. From her position she could see into the cave and her fey sight revealed much of that interior.

[Perception: 15]

Not seeing anything else untoward, she decided to make a swift entry. That way the gremlins couldn't use the bottle neck to their advantage. It seemed a good idea. Then again, Torryn had a marked trait for impetuosity.

[Acrobatics: 8]

The uneven ground coupled with Manolo's presence betwixt herself and her desired destination conspired to render her attempts far less graceful than she'd have liked.

[OOC: Should Torryn get past Manolo she'll take up a defensive stance with her spear lodged, so that the others can follow on safely.]

Mole; (RichP) AC 18; HP 18/18; CMD 14 d20+9=26 ; d20+11=18 ;
Wednesday January 19th, 2022 7:46:01 AM
Looks like they know we're here now. Mole follows Torry in by Manolo. His darkvision will give the group a better idea of what's coming.

Perception DC 26, Survival DC18

Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 15/15 d20+1=8 ;
Wednesday January 19th, 2022 9:10:00 AM
Ash steps forward and tries helping Manolo out of the vine, while trying to stay out of the vines grasp as well. He gazes into the cave, making sure the gremlins aren't rushing them while the trap was sprung. (Perception 8)

Drack (Chris J) - hp 18/18 - AC 16
Wednesday January 19th, 2022 9:31:20 AM
"Lovely. If I were them, I'd likely be setting up a defensive position.Either that, or they will relocate. Either way, looks like we are moving onward."

Drack tries to move past Ash and Manolo so that Torry isn't up front by herself. If he can't, he will help Ash free Manolo.

Manolo (Michael A) - HP 13/13 AC 17 d20+1=12 ; d20+8=13 ;
Wednesday January 19th, 2022 2:39:00 PM
Manolo ears ring, "The ringing won't stop !", he says loudly.
It takes a moment or two for Manolo to realize that he can't hear anything.
He hisses as he tries to get out of the vine's grasp
Fortitude 12
Escape artist 13

AC 13 HP 13/13 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K
Wednesday January 19th, 2022 5:03:01 PM
Loryn winces and bunches his shoulders as the stone kicks off into an explosion. The gnomes shoulders slumps as another thought and plan evaporates. "Well no use fretting over it. Lets get ourselves to a better spot and not this single file bottleneck."

Spells
5-1st- Color Spray, Magic Weapon
0- Detect Magic, Read Magic, Mage Hand, Message, Mending

Gnome: 1/day Dancing Lights, Prestidigitation, Ghost Sound, Speak with Animals
Sorcerer Ray 7/ day 30' 1d6+1 Cast 0

Stowe; (Allen D); HP: 26/26; AC: 22; F: 5; R: 5; W: 1; CMD: 19
Wednesday January 19th, 2022 9:26:52 PM
Stowe feels for Manolo and hopes he's okay, but there are several people between them and she has her own responsibilities to the group.

She continues to watch for any threats as she responds to Loryn, "Yes! Press forward or go back, but we need to get off this cliff!"

Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.): hp:15/15. ac:13
Wednesday January 19th, 2022 9:58:54 PM
Mortimer is getting a sick feeling in his stomach after watching Manolo get a little too wrapped up in his work. "Uhh!?" He curses this warped sense of humor. These dark thoughts are unwanted, ill-timed and totally inappropriate. They always happen in times of stress. However these thoughts seem to antagonize Mortimer instead of acting as a defense.

He looks through his gear for something that might help. Is that the cold iron dagger he sees? Has no one claimed it? This cain't be right, everyone must be properly armed for these bum-muppets!

(OOC: Question - Has anyone claimed the Cold Iron Dagger? I do not recall. If no one has, Mortimer will give it to Manolo.)

DM Steve -- The ringing won't stop
Wednesday January 19th, 2022 10:37:33 PM
Stowe looks for any potential danger or attack outside the cave. She feels the need to move, either forward or back.
Drack moves into the cave alongside Torryn, thinking about what he would do with a warning like the gremlins just got.
Mortimer looks for a way to help Manolo. He thinks maybe a dagger. . .
Loryn thinks they should get to a more advantageous place.
Mole follows Torryn into the cave, realizing his darkvision will benefit them.
Ash steps forward to help Manolo out of the vine.
Manolo tries to get out of the trap. Then he realizes he can no longer hear.
Torrynashkabbeth moves into the cave so she can protect Manolo.

OOC: I have moved Torryn, Drack, and Ash on the map based on posts. Mole was moved by his player. I take it that Manolo. Loryn. and Stowe didn’t move. I have no problem with people moving their characters, or having me move them. If you want me to move a character to a specific spot, please identify the spot in your post.

Torryn, Mole, and Drack enter the cave. Over in a dark corner, hiding among a bunch of debris, Mole sees a small creature eying the trio. The creature notices this and moves a short distance away before stopping and gesturing strangely. Drack notices his chain shirt and sword growing warm. Drack needs to make a DC 13 Will save; this is not enchantment.

Ash and Manolo try to remove the vine, but Manolo is still stuck. Disentangling from these things is difficult, as Ash remembers. Mortimer realizes he somehow ended up with a cold iron dagger and twenty cold iron sling bullets.

Stowe sees no sign of trouble from outside.

Here is a map.

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 17/17 AC:15 d20=15 ; d6=5 ;
Thursday January 20th, 2022 5:50:22 AM
Seeing the creature and its vehement gestures Torryn unhesitatingly released her Fey Spark.
"Iskra!" She whispered as she pointed at the small creature.

[Ranged Touch attack: 19.]

A tiny bolt of lightning leapt from her palm to strike what she hoped was a gremlin. Otherwise, she'd likely not helped matters at all, but analysing before acting really wasn't a Torryn thing.

[Damage: 5]

She then moved to interpose herself between Mole and any more of the wicked Fey believing she was a much harder target and she had reach with her cold iron headed spear.

[Mage Armour still in effect, so Toryn is currently AC:19]

Stowe; (Allen D); HP: 26/26; AC: 22; F: 5; R: 5; W: 1; CMD: 19 d20+6=22 ;
Thursday January 20th, 2022 7:30:08 AM
Stowe kicks at the dirt and waits to move into the cave, impatient.What's going on in there? Then she hears a sharp crack and a squeal. A fight's started! And I'm stuck out here. She looks around the cliffside and up the narrow trail, still vigilant for an ambush (perception = 22). Hopefully there would be some gremmies left for her Tenderizer to break like a bad sauce.

Drack (Chris J) - hp 18/18 - AC 16 d20+1=19 ; d20+7=14 ; d10+7=16 ;
Thursday January 20th, 2022 9:01:04 AM
Drack hopefully manages to shake off the effects of whatever magic the little monster threw at him, and hopes it doesn't continue to get hotter.(will save 19)

"They are throwing magic at us up here. Looks like they are going defensive, and going to hit and retreat."

Drack will move to Q6, and take a swing at the gremlin. Hit ac 14, damage 15(it was supposed to be +6, not +7)

Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 15/15
Thursday January 20th, 2022 9:21:44 AM
Ash begins saying something to Manolo, but realizes the man can't hear him. He pantomimes a sawing action with a knife while pointing to the vine.

Manolo (Michael A) - HP 13/13 AC 17 d20+1=21 ; d20+8=21 ;
Thursday January 20th, 2022 4:21:12 PM

Manolo tries his best to get out of the vine trap.
Fortitude 21 (natural 20 roll)
Escape artist 21

AC 13 HP 13/13 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K
Thursday January 20th, 2022 5:47:25 PM
Loryn's ears perk up at Dracks call. "I got you big guy, no worries. Here comes the gnome!" Loryn moves up 20' and deeper in. (V6) Once there, he casts Dancing Lights, bringing the glowing lights up in a line down the back passage (N,O,P)

A lthe lights come into the chamber, plus the torch he is carrying, He shoots the elf a smile, "You're safe now."

Spells
5-1st- Color Spray, Magic Weapon
0- Detect Magic, Read Magic, Mage Hand, Message, Mending

Gnome: 1/day xDancing Lights, Prestidigitation, Ghost Sound, Speak with Animals
Sorcerer Ray 7/ day 30' 1d6+1 Cast 0

Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.): hp:15/15. ac:13 d20+4=9 ; d3=3 ;
Thursday January 20th, 2022 9:13:19 PM
With cold iron dagger in hand, Mortimer steps over Manolo and speaks a few frosty words of power. A icy ray shoots from his hand and tiny creature.

(Mortimer casts Ray of Frost at the Small Creature. Hit Touch AC: 9. Damage: 3 Cold Damage.)

He then looks down at Manolo, and holds out the cold iron dagger. You would make better use of this, mate!"

DM Steve -- Looks like they are going defensive, and going to hit and retreat d20+2=21 ; d20+3=17 ; d20+5=17 ; d20+4=13 ; d20+4=19 ; d4+1=3 ; d3+1=3 ;
Thursday January 20th, 2022 11:14:39 PM
Ash pantomimes cutting the vine.
Manolo tries to escape the vine, but remains entangled.
Mortimer tries to hit the creature with a ray, but misses. He offers Manolo a dagger.
Drack moves and attacks with his sword, but misses. His armor warms more, to the point of discomfort but not of damage.
Loryn moves in and casts a spell, lighting the corridor out the other side of the chamber.
Torrynashkabbeth casts a tiny lightning bolt at the creature in the cave. She hits, and overcomes its resistance.
Stowe vigilantly guards the rear.
Mole watches events.

Those able to see it note that the hideous, hunchbacked creature has three glowing blue eyes. It seems enraged when Torryn’s spell hits it, and slashes out at Drack with claws and teeth. Its bits is true, and is one of its clawing attacks. Drack takes 3 damage from the bite and 3 from the claw.

Gremlin-N, AC:18 Touch 15 SR: 13 – Damage: 5

Here is a map.

Edit: If it's not clear in the post above, Drack made his saving throw.

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 17/17 AC:15 d20=9 ;
Friday January 21st, 2022 6:03:22 AM
It was not far away. She could close the distance easily. Without hesitation Torryn did so. That she was more likely to strike true with her Fey Spark did not occur to her. Dracky needed help. Torryn darted forward and thrust her spear past Drack to strike the creature.

[To hit: 9.]

At least that had been her intention. She'd missed. This close to Drack she could feel the warmth emanating from his armour. Was it supposed to do that? It didn't seem likely. Her attention though, could not afford to be split. She focused on the gremlin and considered the merits of another Fey Spark if she missed again with her next attack. At least she was giving it something extra to think about. If Drack needed to do something about that extra warm armour, he could. She'd hold the creature!

Drack (Chris J) - hp 13/18 - AC 16 d20+7=9 ;
Friday January 21st, 2022 9:07:55 AM
As the gremlin rips chunks of flesh out of him, he responds to Loryn. "I'm not quite feeling saved, but thanks for the additional light.

As he swings again at the gremlin, Drack ponders an upgrade to his armor and weapons when he has some gold. He also hopes his armor and sword don't continue to heat up, or he will have to back off and drop them.

His pathetic attack fails to connect with anything. hit ac 9

Mole; (RichP) AC 18; HP 18/18; CMD 14 d20+10=19 ;
Friday January 21st, 2022 11:02:40 AM
Mole moves up to support Drack.

"Fras Sèididh," and a flash occurs in the eyes of the gremlin.

Spell cast Flare, Fort DC14 negates. (Concentration DC19)

AC 13 HP 13/13 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K
Friday January 21st, 2022 2:42:38 PM
The gremlin has already made it to tighter quarters. Not much the gnome could do, but possibly 'scout' ahead. Loryn moves up behind Drack (R6 or S6 if Torry is already there) and sends the Dancing Light down the corridor until they hit a wall or get 100' away

Spells
5-1st- Color Spray, Magic Weapon
0- Detect Magic, Read Magic, Mage Hand, Message, Mending

Gnome: 1/day xDancing Lights, Prestidigitation, Ghost Sound, Speak with Animals
Sorcerer Ray 7/ day 30' 1d6+1 Cast 0

Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 15/15
Friday January 21st, 2022 4:50:30 PM
"Stop pulling and try cutting it " he yells in Manolo's face. "Cut the entanglement. "

Manolo (Michael A) - HP 13/13 AC 17 d20+2=4 ; d4+1=5 ;
Friday January 21st, 2022 8:46:26 PM
Manolo tries to stab the vines hysterically with the dagger as he can't seem to get out of the vines in any other way.
Attack 4
Damage 5

Stowe; (Allen D); HP: 26/26; AC: 22; F: 5; R: 5; W: 1; CMD: 19 d20+6=16 ;
Friday January 21st, 2022 9:36:26 PM
Stowe wants to help Manolo. And she's especially skilled at chopping up dangerous plants, and by the sound of it that's what's got him. But there are so many bodies in the narrow entrance to the cave, and her duty is to act as rearguard. "Move forward! Don't jam up the entrance!" she calls, anxiously watching for any threat outside the cave.

OOC: if there's space she'll follow the last person into the cave

Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.): hp:15/15. ac:13 d20+4=22 ; d3=2 ;
Friday January 21st, 2022 10:20:17 PM
Mortimer drops the dagger next to Manolo's hand and takes a step forward. He felt a sense of vengeful spirit to what this gremlin had done to Minerva's friend ... and especially what they did to him. Manolo can help himself for now, Mortimer was out for blood. His breath turns to frost as he casts the spell again.

(Mortimer casts Ray of Frost on the Gremlin. Hit TouchAC: 22. Damage: 2 Cold Damage.)

DM Steve -- I'm not quite feeling saved d20+2=7 ; d20+2=14 ; d20+3=23 ; d20+3=16 ; d20+4=9 ; d20+4=12 ; 2d4+2=7 ;
Saturday January 22nd, 2022 12:09:24 AM
Mole moves up and casts flare.The effect fizzles out in front of the creature. Highlight to display spoiler: {1) I dropped Mole back 5’ so Torryn would be able to attack with her spear. 2) The flare didn’t overcome its spell resistance.}
Torrynashkabbeth closes to attack the gremlin, but misses.
Loryn sends his dancing lights forward until they reach a wall.
Drack attacks the gremlin, but misses. At least his armor is getting no hotter.
Manolo tries to cut the vine, but can’t seem to calm down enough to do so.
Ash encourages Manolo to cut the vine.
Stowe is eager to help Manolo, but can’t reach him without abandoning her position.
Mortimer drops the dagger and casts ray of frost at the gremlin. It hits.

OOC: This creature has spell resistance of 13. When you cast a spell, roll (d20)+(your caster level) to see if you overcome its resistance, unless you prefer I roll.

The gremlin seems to take great amusement from fighting. It attacks Drack again. . . Neither of its claws hit, but its bite is strong this time. Drack takes 7 points of damage.

Gremlin-N, AC:18 Touch 15 SR: 13 – Damage: 7
Vine, AC: 7

Here is a map.

Stowe; (Allen D); HP: 26/26; AC: 22; F: 5; R: 5; W: 1; CMD: 19 d20+6=16 ; d4+4=7 ;
Saturday January 22nd, 2022 1:03:24 AM
Stowe finally grows impatient seeing the plight of her comrade, pushing past Ash to help Manolo. She drops Tenderizer and pulls out her Chef's knife. The one she's used for dicing and chopping (and chiffonading) vegetables the last two years. This should be fun!.

To Manolo she says, "Hold still. This will only take a second."

She slices the vine once (attack = 16), cutting it deeply.(damage =7)

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 17/17 AC:15 d20=6 ;
Saturday January 22nd, 2022 5:20:12 AM
As much as she wished to stab the vile creature, wishing was apparently insufficient. Torryn thrust the cold iron headed spear forward, but was like trying to stab a ghost. The thing was simply too fast, too elusive. So be it, she thought; back to her Fey Spark. It had struck true once. Hopefully it would do so again. In the meantime, she was there giving the creature cause for concern and hopefully not permitting it to deploy its full repertoire of tricks.

[To hit: 6......got him worried now.]

Stowe; (Allen D); HP: 26/26; AC: 22; F: 5; R: 5; W: 1; CMD: 19
Saturday January 22nd, 2022 7:01:24 AM
OOC:
2 things- I forgot to list actions, and I swear there was open space at V6 when i posted last night.
-free: drop hammer in Y7
-move: stride to V6 and draw dagger
-standard: attack vine

If Ash wants to make a simultaneous move, we could switch places. Stowe's actions become:
-free: 5' step to X6
-free: drop hammer in X6
-move: draw dagger
-standard: attack vine

Mole; (RichP) AC 18; HP 18/18; CMD 14 d8+1=8 ;
Saturday January 22nd, 2022 9:07:05 AM
Drack looks pretty wounded to the dwarf's eyes. "Gabhail ri leigheas na tìre" and Drack is bathed in a green glow. Some of the more visible wounds fade from sight.

Cast CLW - healing Drack for 8 points.

Spells:
0 - Flare, Guidance, Light, Stabilize
1 - CLW(c), Faerie Fire, Shillelagh, (d) Magic Stone

Acid bolt 7/day (1d6+1)

Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.): hp:15/15. ac:13 d20+2=5 ;
Saturday January 22nd, 2022 11:05:11 AM
(Whoops. Didn’t know this gremlin had SR. d20+2 = 5, failed miserably.)

DM edit: Since you didn't roll it, I did. Mortimer succeeded, per the post. I'll try to be clearer in the future.

Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.): hp:15/15. ac:13 d20+4=14 ; d6+1=4 ; d20+2=5 ;
Saturday January 22nd, 2022 11:32:34 AM
(ooc: Allen, Stowe is not blocked. Stowe can move freely through friendly squares.)

Mortimer's satisfaction quickly vanishes when he realizes his frost magic simply melts harmlessly off the gremlin. 'What is this,' he thinks, 'what special power is this?' Being new to magic, Mortimer wasn't aware that Spell Resistance was a thing. He decides to cast his most powerful magic at the little beast, hoping that would inflict some damage. A coruscating ray springs from your hand.

(Mortimer casts Ray of Enfeeblement on the Gremlin. Hit TouchAC: 15. SR Check: 5, miserable fail again. Save: Fort 15 for half. Damage: -4 Strength penalty.)

Mortimer regrets leaving the cold iron dagger with Manolo. He looks around to see if there is a large rock he could drop on the bum muppet.

AC 13 HP 13/13 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K
Monday January 24th, 2022 7:29:30 AM
Loryn moves up behind Drack and casts a spell to imbue his weapon with magic. Magic Weapon
Move to R6

He also brings the Lights back and fans them out at the first intersection. (J/K, 6/7)

Spells
5-1st- Color Spray, xMagic Weapon
0- Detect Magic, Read Magic, Mage Hand, Message, Mending

Gnome: 1/day xDancing Lights, Prestidigitation, Ghost Sound, Speak with Animals
Sorcerer Ray 7/ day 30' 1d6+1 Cast 0

Drack (Chris J) - hp 14/18 - AC 16 d20+8=17 ;
Monday January 24th, 2022 9:19:40 AM
Drack feels the healing energy wash over him. "Thanks Mole, I needed that"

As Loryn imbues his weapon with magic Drack hopes he can actually hit this monster for a change. "Thanks Loryn, hopefully that helps."

Drack takes another swing at the gremlin, hitting ac 17, and narrowly missing for the third time in a row.(the stupid die roller hates Drack)

Active Spells: Magic weapon from Loryn

Stowe; (Allen D); HP: 26/26; AC: 22; F: 5; R: 5; W: 1; CMD: 19 d20+8=27 ; 2d4+12=18 ;
Monday January 24th, 2022 12:27:17 PM
Stowe makes another cut at Manolo's bonds for goot measure. (27 - critical) She slashes straight through the vines, sure nown that he is free to escape. (Dam = 18).

She stand up and moves back to where she dropped her hammer so she can pick it up and continue her rearguard duties.

OOC: currently in a somewhat loopy post-op state. I hope the are many posts to interact ruth today! No pain, but my front lip feels about 6 times too large.

Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 15/15 d20+2=21 ; d4+1=5 ;
Monday January 24th, 2022 3:24:37 PM
Ash nods to Stowe and steps away from maolo to allow her to get closer.

He was needed elsewhere anyway. With that he moves as close in towards the room as possible, and looks to spot the gremlin. If he can get eye sight on the creature he unleashes a magic missle. The spell is good enough to get past his spell resistance and slams into the gremlin for 5 dmg.

Spells:
0-Level
Read Magic, Detect Magic. Daze, Light(x)
1st
Magic missle(x) , enlarge person, sleep, hold portal

Manolo (Michael A) - HP 13/13 AC 17 d20+2=13 ; d4=2 ;
Monday January 24th, 2022 7:13:11 PM
Manolo tries to get out of the vines by cutting the vines.
Attack 13
Damage 3 (2+1)

DM Steve -- This will only take a second. d20+3=5 ; d20+4=14 ; d20+4=21 ; d3+1=2 ;
Monday January 24th, 2022 9:38:55 PM
Torrynashkabbeth pokes at the gremlin with her spear, but misses it.
Manolo attacks the vine, doing some damage. With Stowe's help, he is free.
Stowe grows impatient and cuts the vine off of Manolo in one slice.
Ash moves into the cave and casts magic missile, striking true.
Drack thanks Mole. He barely misses the gremlin with an attack.
Mole provides some healing to Drack.
Mortimer tries attacking the gremlin with a ray of enfeeblement, unsuccessfully, and wishes he still had the cold iron dagger.
Loryn casts a spell on Drack’s weapon and rearranges his dancing lights to see better.

The gremlin is looking fairly wounded as it attacks Drack again. One of its claws connects, doing 2 points of damage to Drack. Despite its wounds, the creature shows no sign of backing down or trying to save itself. If anything, the longer the fight goes the more it enjoys fighting.

Gremlin-N, AC:18 Touch 15 SR: 13 – Damage: 12
Vine, AC: 7 – cut away

Mole; (RichP) AC 18; HP 18/18; CMD 14
Monday January 24th, 2022 11:19:22 PM
Mole uses the pearl to recall the cure spell.

Spells:
0 - Flare, Guidance, Light, Stabilize
1 - CLW, Faerie Fire, Shillelagh, (d) Magic Stone

Acid bolt 7/day (1d6+1)

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 17/17 AC:15 d20=17 ; d20=12 ; d6=4 ;
Tuesday January 25th, 2022 5:57:03 AM
Her thrust with the spear had been wayward, so Torryn reverted to her magic. Flicking open her hand, lightning leapt unerringly towards the ugly gremlin. It struck square in the chest.

[OOC: Ranged touch, AC:21. SR:13 Damage:4. She's now used 2 Fey Sparks - the previous round was a Spear attack.] DM: Corrected.

Drack (Chris J) - hp 12/18 - AC 16 d20+8=14 ;
Tuesday January 25th, 2022 8:34:18 AM
Drack swings once again at the gremlin hitting ac 14, and missing once again. Drack ponders giving up his trade and becoming a farmer, as it appears years of training have not helped him much.

Stowe; (Allen D); HP: 26/26; AC: 22; F: 5; R: 5; W: 1; CMD: 19 d20=19 ; d6+4=8 ;
Tuesday January 25th, 2022 12:22:58 PM
Stowe, desperate to lend a hand with this fiesty gremlin, drops her chef's knife and draws her javelin, a weapon somewhat more suited to this range. She winds back her arm and throws it at the small creature's face. Despite having to weave its way between several allies, she successfully strikes the evil, grinning creature.

Move: draw javelin
Standard: attack (19) dam (8)
Step: to W6 if Manolo is leaving the space

AC 13 HP 13/13 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K d20+2=3 ;
Tuesday January 25th, 2022 12:39:57 PM
Loryn delays to see what the outcome of the rest of the group's attacks produce. Although the gnome knows there is nothing he can do regardless. Hitting the highly elusive creature with a ray while the others are engaged with it would be a miracle. Loryn did not trust himself to rely on such things and so he simply cheers on his fellows and d tries to get a better look through their legs and down the passage.

Perception 3

Spells
5-1st- Color Spray, xMagic Weapon
0- Detect Magic, Read Magic, Mage Hand, Message, Mending

Gnome: 1/day xDancing Lights, Prestidigitation, Ghost Sound, Speak with Animals
Sorcerer Ray 7/ day 30' 1d6+1 Cast 0

Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.): hp:15/15. ac:13 d20+4=22 ; d20+2=3 ; d3=2 ;
Tuesday January 25th, 2022 12:50:11 PM
Mortimer thinks he might get lucky again. He doesn't care, he just wants vengeance! He sends another frosty ray at the menacing gremlin.

(Mortimer casts Ray of Frost at the Gremlin. Hit TouchAC: 22. SR Check: Natural 1, most miserable fail. Damage: 2 cold damage.)

Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 15/15 d20+1=2 ;
Tuesday January 25th, 2022 3:07:37 PM
Ash readies a spell, but thinks better of it for a second. If this gremlin falls there still will be more fighting and the wizard doesn't want to be without spells. (Perception 2, Nat 1)

Spells:
0-Level
Read Magic, Detect Magic. Daze, Light(x)
1st
Magic missle(x) , enlarge person, sleep, hold portal

Manolo (Michael A) - HP 13/13 AC 17 d20+6=9 ;
Tuesday January 25th, 2022 7:07:05 PM
"Thanks", he says plainly to Stowe.
Manolo tries to take a look at the battle ensuing but he is not focused enough.
He stretches for a second or two before trying to move just a little bit closer to the battle.

perception 9

DM Steve -- Thanks
Tuesday January 25th, 2022 7:30:40 PM
Manolo thanks Stowe for freeing him.
Stowe throws a javelin at the gremlin – managing to strike the creature despite the melee going on around it.
Mole recalls the cure he cast.
Mortimer casts another cantrip, which goes very wide.
Ash decides to save his remaining spells.
Drack swings at the gremlin and misses again.
Loryn waits to see the outcome of the melee, since folks are to in the way for him to look down the corridor.
Torrynashkabbeth uses her fey spark, overcoming the gremlin’s defenses and hurting it.

Torryn’s fey spark does it’s damage to the gremlin. Stowe’s javelin hits it with a solid thuck and falls to the ground, having failed to penetrate the creature. But it does knock the creature back, where it collapses on the cave floor. The gremlin pushes itself up (provoking an AoO from Drack) but cannot manage to do more at the moment.

Gremlin-N, AC:18 Touch 15 SR: 13 – Damage: 19

Here is a map.

Stowe; (Allen D); HP: 26/26; AC: 22; F: 5; R: 5; W: 1; CMD: 19
Tuesday January 25th, 2022 8:38:46 PM
Well, I'm not making that shot again... Stowe shakes her head at her lucky throw and quickly picks up her knife. She then walks over to the cave entrance next to where she dropped the warhammer. Time to make sure nothing is sneaking up on them from behind.

OOC:
-move: pick up knife
-standard: move to X6

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 17/17 AC:15 d20=3 ;
Wednesday January 26th, 2022 4:04:29 AM
Surely now she could strike at the creature: it having been knocked back. Torryn thrust the spear forward, employing its reach to poor effect as her attack didn't simply miss, but went woefully wide of its intended mark. She clenched her teeth together in frustration. Dancing was so much more rewarding than fighting, particularly as she didn't have to hurt anyone to do it. Still, the vile creature was evil and would undoubtedly cause even greater harm and misery if its depredations were left unchecked.

Drack (Chris J) - hp 12/18 - AC 16 d20+8=14 ; d20+8=24 ; d10+7=17 ;
Wednesday January 26th, 2022 8:56:45 AM
Growing increasingly frustrated at his inability to hit the gremlin, Drack takes a swing as the gremlin stands up in front of him, Missing with for the 5th time in a row. (hit ac 14)

Drack then takes his regular swing and actually connects for a change, hopefully the damage will be enough to hurt or kill it. (hit ac 24, damage 17)

AC 13 HP 13/13 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K
Wednesday January 26th, 2022 11:06:31 AM
Loryn remains where he is. A disappointed Oh coming from him as Drack misses the gremlin standing up, but it is quickly followed by a Woot as he connects solidly

Spells Active:
Dancing Lights 3/10
Magic Weapon Drack's sword 2/10

Spells
5-1st- Color Spray, xMagic Weapon
0- Detect Magic, Read Magic, Mage Hand, Message, Mending

Gnome: 1/day xDancing Lights, Prestidigitation, Ghost Sound, Speak with Animals
Sorcerer Ray 7/ day 30' 1d6+1 Cast 0

Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 15/15 d20+1=9 ;
Wednesday January 26th, 2022 12:53:15 PM
Figuring they have this under control, Ash scans around the cave, looking for more ambush spots or attacks. (Perception 9)

Spells:
0-Level
Read Magic, Detect Magic. Daze, Light(x)
1st
Magic missle(x) , enlarge person, sleep, hold portal

Manolo (Michael A) - HP 13/13 AC 17 d20+6=25 ;
Wednesday January 26th, 2022 6:49:19 PM
Manolo looks at his surroundings and keeps a ear open, trying to see if there are more "Friendly" critters that are waiting to surprise them or might surprise them from a specific place.

Perception 25

Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.): hp:15/15. ac:13 d20+4=8 ; d20+2=18 ; d3=1 ;
Wednesday January 26th, 2022 8:16:46 PM
'Shame I couldn't make the killing blow,' Mortimer thinks to himself. 'Maybe the lil bugger still lives,' he isn't against performing a double tap. The crackling mash and plopping squish of gremlin flesh was likened to music in his ears. No... that was an actual glob of gremlin flesh! He digs it out with his finger.

"Is there anything left of his head ... take his head!" He draws his sickle and eagerly approaches. "I can take his head! Only way to make sure it's dead dead!"

IF the gremlin still appears to be alive and well, Mortimer sends another Ray of Frost down upon the accursed beast. (Mortimer casts Ray of Frost on Gremlin. Hit TouchAC: 8. SR Check:18. Damage: 1 lousy point of Cold Damage.)

Stowe; (Allen D); HP: 26/26; AC: 22; F: 5; R: 5; W: 1; CMD: 19
Wednesday January 26th, 2022 8:23:35 PM
Stowe sees Drack cleave the gremlin with his curved blade. Her eyebrows rise at the elf's prowess. That was a hit! She whoops loudly at what surely was a killing blow.

OOC: I was going to search that nest, unless someone else wants to check it out first. I think it'll take a turn or 2 for Stowe to walk over there...

Mole; (RichP) AC 18; HP 18/18; CMD 14 d20+9=11 ;
Wednesday January 26th, 2022 10:09:49 PM
Mole stands and supports Drack. He looks beyond the fight into the darkness (60-ft darkvision).

Perception DC11 (or not)

Spells:
0 - Flare, Guidance, Light, Stabilize
1 - CLW, Faerie Fire, Shillelagh, (d) Magic Stone

Acid bolt 7/day (1d6+1)

DM Steve -- Shame I couldn't make the killing blow
Wednesday January 26th, 2022 10:13:14 PM
Stowe returns to her position as rearguard. She cheers Drack when he hits.
Mole is ready to support Drack, and looks into the darkness beyond the fight.
Drack misses the gremlin as it stands up, but is able to hit it as it staggers around.
Loryn watches Drack’s performance.
Mortimer wishes he could make the killing blow.
Ash scans the cave.
Torrynashkabbeth attacks with her spear and misses.
Manolo listens for other creatures.

On his second swing, Drack cuts into the gremlin, killing it.

Ash notices a nest – presumably that’s what it is – in one corner of the cave. Manolo does not hear anything. The nest is a rotting pile of leaves and grasses, but clearly contains a number of small, “found” objects as well. Many of them glimmer in the torchlight.

Mole notices that there is a spot in the passage (marked “rubble strewn”) where it splits off into a narrow side passage.

Gremlin-N, AC:18 Touch 15 SR: 13 – Damage: DEAD

Here is a map.

Drack (Chris J) - hp 12/18 - AC 16
Thursday January 27th, 2022 9:45:59 AM
Drack steps back and relaxes a bit after seeing the gremlin go down.

"These things are hard to hit. If I had been using the club, and it wasn't enhanced by Loryn, I'm not sure I'd have hit him at all. We used quite a bit of resources in trying to kill one of these. what if we run into two or three next time. do we have enough left? Assuming they are all the same. If we don't go on, they likely won't be here when we come back. Mole, you should save any heal spells you have left for emergencies, I'll drink a potion, and Stowe and I will take the front. Hopefully the two of us will hit enough to do a quicker job next time."

Drack waits to make sure the group wishes to proceed, and if so drinks the healing potion. Once the nest is cleaned of whatever spoils it holds, he will take the lead further in.

Stowe; (Allen D); HP: 26/26; AC: 22; F: 5; R: 5; W: 1; CMD: 19 d20+6=8 ;
Thursday January 27th, 2022 10:14:37 AM
Stowe nods in agreement, though it's unlikely anyone can see her, silhouetted as she is by the cave entrance. "You okay Drack? You got pretty cut up there. I'm happy to take the lead if you want a break."

It was going to be tough going in the tight confines of the caves. Stowe bent and picked up her warhammer, glancing around for any movement outside the cave entrance, before stepping back inside.

OOC:
->Move: pick up weapon
->Standard: perception check (8)
->Free: 5' step

Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 15/15
Thursday January 27th, 2022 10:47:40 AM
"Nice shot Drack" Ash whispers. He moves towards the gremlin as well as the nest. "Izacarious magadocious" he whispers as he moves around. Casts Detect Magic.

Spells:
0-Level
Read Magic, Detect Magic(x). Daze, Light(x)
1st
Magic missle(x) , enlarge person, sleep, hold portal

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 17/17 AC:15
Thursday January 27th, 2022 12:35:59 PM
"Yes, well done Dracky." Torryn agreed. "You know, I also have a couple of healing potions if they're needed."

She'd wanted to go to the front, but that was simply her being Torryn: impulsive as ever. She accepted the fact that both Drack and Stowe were far more likely to strike the elusive creatures than was she. At least she'd managed to land a couple of hits, albeit with her Fey Spark rather than the spear. Perhaps next time she could try that speed attack that Agratha had been trying to teach her. Perhaps. She had to admit that all that speed really didn't make for much accuracy. Not in her case. at least.

If Stowe and Drack were taking the lead, she was definitely going to be second. Definitely that was, until someone presented a good reason why not. She couldn't think of one, so volunteered for exactly that position. "I'll follow you two. My spear can poke them between you. In theory, anyway."

Manolo (Michael A) - HP 13/13 AC 17
Thursday January 27th, 2022 1:58:05 PM
Manolo agrees
"Its better we go no when we have the advantage, if we do not finish this right now...I am afraid they will have more surprises for us"

Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.): hp:15/15. ac:13 d20+1=4 ;
Thursday January 27th, 2022 9:02:09 PM
"You all notice the size of that bum muppet," he points at the gremlin's remains, "That's a big one! The ones I've seen are the size of Agatha's cats. That one is as big as Loryn! I didn't know they came that big! Expect the others to be bloody harder to hit, lil bastards!"

Mortimer decides to search the body for weapons or other things of interest. (Perception: 4) The gore of the corpse doesn't bother him. It's the fact this creature was disgusting in life. Any hesitation comes from wandering what foulness this sewer rat has wallowed in.

DM Steve -- if we do not finish this right now...I am afraid they will have more surprises for us
Friday January 28th, 2022 12:42:26 AM
(OOC: Internet troubles and on a tablet. Sorry, but the post will be short.)

Drack and Stowe discuss changing the marching order a bit while the group looks around, while Torryn makes sure she is somewhat forward. Ash finds no magic in the nest or on the creature. Mortimer finds nothing on the creature's remains. The nest contains a variety of knicknacks, which would probably add up to a decent amount. Manolo urges that they not give the rest of the creatures time to escape.

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 17/17 AC:15
Friday January 28th, 2022 5:37:29 AM
"We should press on. Yes, with that band they'll know something is amiss, but not what exactly and they may even have expected old ugly there to have dealt with it. Certainly that would have been the case if an animal had triggered the trap." Torryn was all for exploring further. Of course, she wasn't the one confined by armour and had a thrusting weapon that wasn't overly restricted in the confined space.

Mole; (RichP) AC 18; HP 18/18; CMD 14 d20+9=12 ;
Friday January 28th, 2022 8:30:33 AM
"Nice job. We don't know what else is in here, so let's not throw everything we have at the first few things we see." Mole says issuing a word of caution for the young ones. "There's a small side passage up ahead. be wary of traps."

Perception DC12

Spells:
0 - Flare, Guidance, Light, Stabilize
1 - CLW, Faerie Fire, Shillelagh, (d) Magic Stone

Acid bolt 7/day (1d6+1)
Pearl of Power (used)

Drack (Chris J) - hp 12/18 - AC 16
Friday January 28th, 2022 9:39:51 AM
Once the valuables are grabbed from the nest, D is ready to go.

"Stowe, since you are uninjured, why don't you take lead and I'll follow right behind. If we run into something, or get into a larger area where we can both fight at the same time, I'll drink the healing potion i have. You and I can try and keep a wary eye out for traps. If we find one, Manolo can give it another go. I will tell you, that one was tough to hit, and Loryn's spell likely isn't on my blade anymore."

Drack (Chris J) - hp 12/18 - AC 16 d20+8=24 ;
Friday January 28th, 2022 9:41:15 AM
(perception 24)

Stowe; (Allen D); HP: 26/26; AC: 22; F: 5; R: 5; W: 1; CMD: 19 d20-6=8 ;
Friday January 28th, 2022 10:04:52 AM
Stowe walks over to the nest and looks for any more gremlin traps, then starts rooting through it. We need to move on, but we'll probably need to buy more healing potions after this... The last few coppers clink together forlornly in her purse. ...and I could also use the money. Being unemployed has a way of changing priorities, she had found.

After rifling through the filthy nest, she moves up beside Drack and retrieves her javelin from the ground

OOC:
-Rolling perception for traps on the nest
-Not sure if we're still in rounds. This would take 2-3 rounds though if we are, so it's possible everything after the first round below does not happen.
Round 1:
-Move: Stride 20' to T6
-Standard: Stow hammer
Round 2:
-Free: 5' step to S7
-Move: Check for traps
-Standard: Search nest
Round 3:
-Move: Stride 15' to P6
-Standard: Pick up javelin

Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 15/15
Friday January 28th, 2022 10:38:32 AM
Ash waits patiently while the nest is searched and items grabbed. He would wait for the more experienced trap finders to move first and check the side passage before following in behind them.

Manolo (Michael A) - HP 13/13 AC 17 d20+6=25 ; d20+7=17 ;
Friday January 28th, 2022 7:56:01 PM
Manolo takes a look to see if there are any remains or valuables things on the gremlin.
He then proceeds to start looking for signs for traps.

Perception 25 (for valuables)
Perception 17 (for trap finding)

Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.): hp:15/15. ac:13 d20+1=14 ;
Friday January 28th, 2022 9:22:50 PM
Mortimer appears to be impatient and increasingly irritated. This agitation is not with any one of his friends, mind you, it's with the shaggy, three-eyed corpse on the floor. "THAT'S ENOUGH out of YOU! Got what you deserved, you did! I don't understand you anyways, I don't speak bum-muppet; so SHUT IT!"

He turns away from the gremlin, having found nothing on the body. He watches the others inspecting the nest. His interest is peaked. He hopes they find something valuable. Mortimer then listens down the corridor ahead. (Perception: 14)

It had been nagging him, the dead, dog-faced gremlin they found outside Ezra's Distillery. No one in the hamlet has yet claimed the kill. Which makes him think it was killed by one of their own. This bum-muppet seems like a possible candidate.

"This dead one over here. It keeps a nest away, separate from the rest. Me thinks he doesn't play well with the others."

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 17/17 AC:15 d20=11 ;
Saturday January 29th, 2022 5:48:25 AM
[b]"Maybe it's just some fantastical 'guard dog': something that will do their dirty work, but lacks the intelligence to socialise with its 'betters'. I don't know. It's all just speculation. What I do know though is that we should probably keep the shouting to a minimum....Morty. There's no point in advertising our location more than necessary."[/b} Torryn had no interest in the nest. She maintained her attention of the way ahead.

[OOC: Perception, D20+7. 18]

DM Steve -- We should press on.
Saturday January 29th, 2022 8:06:49 PM
Ash waits while the others search. He thinks someone able to find traps should move first.
Mortimer becomes agitated, and yells at the body. He wonders if it ever turned on the other gremlins.
Manolo checks the gremlin’s body, then looks for more traps.
Torrynashkabbeth wants to press on. She hopes that what they just fought was some sort of “guard dog,” and not what all gremlins are like.
Mole warns not to waste all their resources on one skirmish. He also points out the side passage.
Stowe looks for more traps before she roots through the nest.
Drack offers Stowe the lead, since she is uninjured.
Loryn is quiet.

Searching through the nest, the group find miscellaneous trinkets and valuables. Obviously the creature stole them, but it did not seem to have any particular concept of value. (When the party has a chance to estimate it, the lot is worth about 500 gp.)

Although a number of the group look and listen, they find no sign of anything worrisome within sight or hearing. Manolo finds no more traps.

The side passage is tighter than the main one, and twisty enough to be hard to see down very far. Medium creatures may have to squeeze to get through it.

Here is a map.

Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.): hp:15/15. ac:13
Saturday January 29th, 2022 8:56:56 PM
Mortimer hadn't yelled at the gremlin, he was only talking to it sternly with a bit of emphasis on a few words. He might have raised his voice a little, but it was a far cry from a yell.

He returns his voice to a more hushed whisper, but he replies, "I will try remember to use my indoor voice. Besides, it's that lil bugger who is actually yelling! Not happy at all, it is," as he points at the dead gremlin.

"I believe we lost the element of surprise as soon as we set off the bomb at the entrance. My ears are still ringing."

When they decide to continue on deeper into the cave, Mortimer will take up his position in the middle of the line.

(ooc: Adding Party Treasure to the list.)

Stowe; (Allen D); HP: 26/26; AC: 22; F: 5; R: 5; W: 1; CMD: 19 d20+6=21 ;
Saturday January 29th, 2022 9:52:10 PM
After handing over her looted coin to the group's designated treasurer, Mortimer odd fellow for that, but they seem to trust him... Stowe creeps forward through the narrow cave. She keeps her illuminated shield facing forward, shining off the rock walls. She can see more nests in the distance, and what looks like the back of the cave. "There are more nests back here!" She calls softly back to the group, the thought of more treasure bringing a hint of giddiness to her voice. She's not typically so materialistic, but who doesn't like treasure? That first nest had to be worth more gold than I've seen in one place!

To her left, the small and cramped passage splits from the main branch. She shines her shield down it, seeing as far as she can. That will be a tight fit she thinks, her chest tightening with the pervasive thought of getting stuck between those immoveable rock walls. She hesitates outside the entrance. "Um... Let's make sure this cave is really clear before we, *gulp*, squeeze in there." She whispers back to everyone else.

[i]OOC:
-Perception: 21

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 17/17 AC:15
Sunday January 30th, 2022 8:24:08 AM
The narrow confines were less of an issue for Torryn. She was prepared to venture forth if the need arose. For the moment though it made sense to explore the more readily accessible areas.

"I agree. Let's take a look at those nest-things then." She suggested ready to back up the two brave fighters as and when necessary.

[OOC: used 2x Fey Spark of 6
Mage Armour in effect. Has 3 more spells available.]

Mole; (RichP) AC 18; HP 18/18; CMD 14 d20+9=24 ;
Sunday January 30th, 2022 8:45:59 AM
"I'll keep watch while you check the other nests." Mole moves up to the side passage he looks down for anymore earth and stone related traps. He also keeps an eye down the passage with his darkvision.

Perception DC24

Spells:
0 - Flare, Guidance, Light, Stabilize
1 - CLW, Faerie Fire, Shillelagh, (d) Magic Stone

Acid bolt 7/day (1d6+1)
Pearl of Power (used)

Drack (Chris J) - hp 12/18 - AC 16
Monday January 31st, 2022 9:08:18 AM
"Agreed. Main passage way first. Lead on Stowe."

AC 13 HP 13/13 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K d20=20 ; d20+2=14 ;
Monday January 31st, 2022 10:11:04 AM
Loryn sends the Dancing Lights up on ahead of Stowe and spreads them out is a small circle 10' apart from each other. Loryn stops at the smaller passage and gives the torch he has out a toss about 20' down. 20 He then readies to hit anything coming at him with a Color Spray, trusting he is low light vision to provide ample warning
Perception 14

Spells Active:
Dancing Lights 6/10
Magic Weapon Drack's sword 5/10

Spells
5-1st- Color Spray, xMagic Weapon
0- Detect Magic, Read Magic, Mage Hand, Message, Mending

Gnome: 1/day xDancing Lights, Prestidigitation, Ghost Sound, Speak with Animals
Sorcerer Ray 7/ day 30' 1d6+1 Cast 0

Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 15/15 d20+1=5 ;
Monday January 31st, 2022 10:28:34 AM
Ash moves behind Loryn, and looks into the passage when her lights head down. The Darkness bothers his vision more than anything else. (perception 5)

Spells:
0-Level
Read Magic, Detect Magic(x). Daze, Light(x)
1st
Magic missle(x) , enlarge person, sleep, hold portal

Stowe; (Allen D); HP: 26/26; AC: 22; F: 5; R: 5; W: 1; CMD: 19 d20+6=11 ;
Monday January 31st, 2022 1:37:57 PM
Stowe nods at Drack's request and continues deeper into the main cave, shining her glowing shield around the walls and looking for any traps or creatures.

The Cliffside Caves

High road or low road? (DM BatMark)
Monday January 31st, 2022 8:08:29 PM
Stowe moves through the narrow cave and sees some more nests ahead in the dim light.
Torrynashkabbeth agrees with exploring the wider section first and suggests checking out the nests.
Mortimer tries to quiet down a bit before tabulating the loot and taking his place in the marching order.
Manolo hangs back quietly.
Mole keeps an eye down the narrow passage and looks for more traps.
Drack agrees with moving down the main passage and looks to Stowe to lead.
Loryn sends dancing lights ahead and a torch to the side.
Ash backs up Loryn near the side passage

Mole finds no traps in the narrow side passage, but does hear the distant sound of running water. Loryn and Ash, by the light of the torch, can now more clearly see that the side tunnel slopes downward and turns tightly to the left after about 10-15 feet.

By the light of her shield and Loryn’s Dancing Lights, Stowe can see a 10-15 foot nest of rags, debris, brush, and other materials piled in the northwest corner of the cavern. There are no other apparent exits from the room, although the nest is too dense in many places to tell what might be underneath or behind it.

Here is a map.

(OOC: I moved your characters to match as closely as I could figure where you intended to be on the map. Feel free to adjust as needed.)

Stowe; (Allen D); HP: 26/26; AC: 22; F: 5; R: 5; W: 1; CMD: 19 d20+6=11 ; d20+6=24 ;
Tuesday February 1st, 2022 1:02:33 AM
Stowe cautiously approaches the large nest, looking for any traps or signs of life. "Stay back in case there's another one of those exploding rocks!"

She didn't want anyone to get hurt if she blundered into a trap. Once the way was clear, she'd want help making sure the cave walls really were solid and not some gremlin trick. Maybe Mole could help with that... She hesitated to ask in case he thought she was only saying that just because he was a dwarf.

When she gets to the nest she feels a sense of relief and starts to inspect it closely and search for anything useful.

OOC:
-Perception for traps leading up to the nests (11)
-Perception for searching the nest itself (24)

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 17/17 AC:15 d20=11 ;
Tuesday February 1st, 2022 5:05:27 AM
"I can check those nests with my spear." Offered Torryn. It seemed the safest method. Using the light from Stowe's shield Torryn probed and redistributed materials to see what, if anything lurked beneath. She used the pointy end! That was just in case something nasty needed a thorough stabbing.

[OOC: Perception +7: (18).

Drack (Chris J) - hp 12/18 - AC 16
Tuesday February 1st, 2022 8:46:10 AM
Drack keeps his sword out by the nest. "Sounds like a good idea Torry. Stowe and I will stand to either side of you in case something nasty pops out."

"Mole, you might want to keep an eye out down that side tunnel for unwanted visitors while we clear this room."

AC 13 HP 13/13 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K
Tuesday February 1st, 2022 9:34:57 AM
Loryn looks back at Drack as the elf mentions keeping an eye out on the passage and then with a mutter of about shiny objects and squirrels, he looks back down the passage. "Lets wait for them to clear that before we take the lead into here."

When the big folk arrive, Loryn will head down the side passage behind Mole. The big folk will be a bit as they sandwich through and he did not need to see that from the rear. He will also bring his Lights back, once the others are through searching the debris

Spells Active:
Dancing Lights 7/10
Magic Weapon Drack's sword 6/10

Manolo d20+6=23 ;
Tuesday February 1st, 2022 7:06:33 PM
Manolo looks for possible traps and potential points of
Ambush.
Perception 23

Gaaaahhh!!!!! (DM BatMark) d4=3 ; d4=4 ; d4=2 ; d4=1 ; d20+6=21 ; d20+6=19 ; d3=1 ; d6=4 ; d3=3 ; d6=3 ; d20+6=20 ; d3=3 ; d6=4 ; d20+6=24 ; d3=2 ; d6=5 ;
Tuesday February 1st, 2022 8:16:36 PM
Stowe approaches the nest, warning the others to stay back in case of a trap.
Drack moves up to cover his allies near the nest.
Torrynashkabbeth pokes the nest with her spear, looking for anything under the layers of material
Manolo looks for traps and points of ambush.
Loryn mutters under his breath, implying that the others are too easily distracted and also not paying attention to what he has already said. Harrumph.
Ash, Mole, and Mortimer wait patiently for bad things to happen to them.

Despite all their precautions, our heroes are surprised when a gaggle of tiny gremlins burst out of the nest, unfortunately not from where Torryn’s spear was most recently poking. Cursed little sneaks that they are, they spring forward in a burst of detritus, and attempt to stab the closest party members. Two go for Stowe, their clever little blades slipping neatly through chinks in her armor, doing a total of 9hp of damage. Another lunges at Drack, skewering him for 5hp. The last singles out Torryn, nicking her for 6hp. They chitter madly in their high-pitched voices, grinning wickedly at the mayhem they have wrought. What do our heroes do now?

Gremlin 1 AC: 18 (Touch 17) undamaged
Gremlin 2 AC: 18 (Touch 17) undamaged
Gremlin 3 AC: 18 (Touch 17) undamaged
Gremlin 4 AC: 18 (Touch 17) undamaged

Here is a map.

Stowe; (Allen D); HP: 17/26; AC: 22; F: 5; R: 5; W: 1; CMD: 19 d20+6=12 ;
Wednesday February 2nd, 2022 12:35:53 AM
Stowe is so surprised by these creatures that she misses quite badly when she swings her hammer at them. Blood runs freely from her side, and she knows how quickly a battle can turn. If it continues like this much longer we'll all be in mortal peril!

"Step back with me! We need to protect our flanks with these cave walls! She shouts to Drack and Torryn.

OOC:
-I'm trying to move back so we can't be flanked easily since there are 4 of them when they spread out.
-Stowe can block the passage if we withdraw to where the cave necks down 10' wide. I might use some rounds of total defense if someone behind can deal damage.
-That's assuming we last long enough. At this rate the three of us in melee are dead in 2 turns anyway...

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 17/17 AC:15 d20=12 ;
Wednesday February 2nd, 2022 7:09:14 AM
Torryn took the chance to stab with her spear. Sadly, she was far more skilled at throwing than at 'stabbing'. The elusive creature easily avoided her effort. Still, she could at least take a step back as Stowe advocated without gifting her opponents any further chances to attack. Given the numbers she needed her Fey magic.
"Stowe, Drack, can you hold them for a second? I'll call on my magic and then I'll be able to hold the front." Torryn asked. With all her magically defences in place, she'd prove a hard target even for the gremlins. That ought to spare Stowe and Drack. Of course, she had very little chance of actually hitting her swift quarry, but she was going to rely on others for that.

OOC: The plan is for Torryn to step back between Drack and Stowe so that she can call forth her Fey Shield (Shield spell). This will raise her AC to 23. That should exceed everyone else's (I'm guessing); so Torryn will then step back in front to present a seemingly easy target - unarmoured girl)

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 11/17 AC:19
Wednesday February 2nd, 2022 7:11:37 AM
OOC: Forgot to correct the Health at the top. Also amended AC.
Also....
2 x Fey Spark used.
1 x Mage Armour. (in place.)

Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 15/15
Wednesday February 2nd, 2022 7:46:36 AM
Ash was caught off guard, but quickly got back in the right mindset. He moves up behind the melee line, and started scanning the cave. How high is the ceiling?

Mole; (RichP) AC 18; HP 18/18; CMD 14
Wednesday February 2nd, 2022 7:53:53 AM
Mole moves up in support of the three engaged with the gremlins.

(ooc: total distance moved 25-ft)

Spells:
0 - Flare, Guidance, Light, Stabilize
1 - CLW, Faerie Fire, Shillelagh, (d) Magic Stone

Acid bolt 7/day (1d6+1)
Pearl of Power (used)

AC 13 HP 13/13 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K d20+4=5 ;
Wednesday February 2nd, 2022 8:22:49 AM
Loryn, after muttering about his own mind being easily distracted, snaps back as the squeals of the gremlins sound in the cave. The gnome is not quick or fast, but is able to get close enough. Loryn moves up and fires a ray of acid at one of the gremlins in the corner that is not engaged with any of his companions. Missing horribly

Spells Active:
Dancing Lights 8/10
Magic Weapon Drack's sword 7/10

Drack (Chris J) - hp 12/18 - AC 16 d20+8=19 ; d10+7=8 ;
Wednesday February 2nd, 2022 9:20:12 AM
Drack thinks to himself, "Great. hitting these things is tough. Apparently I should have used the healing potion already."

Drack takes a swing at the closest gremlin, actually connecting, but for minimum damage of 8. He then takes a 5' step back, following Stowe's request.

Magic Weapon from Loryn 7/10

Drack (Chris J) - hp 7/18 - AC 16
Wednesday February 2nd, 2022 9:32:37 AM
(header adjustment for damage)

Manolo
Wednesday February 2nd, 2022 10:40:26 AM
Manolo moves further inside tthe cave.
(K7)
OOC: we came from the right side right ?
So the part on the bottom/down is unexplored right ?

Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.): hp:15/15. ac:13 d20+4=17 ; d3=1 ;
Wednesday February 2nd, 2022 10:58:55 AM
Here we go, he thinks, the beginning of our end. He recalls it taking half of the town over what seemed forever to kill a single gremlin in open combat. A gremlin that almost killed the newbie sorcerer. Now four gremlins stand before the group. A group that still struggles to strike the broadside of a barn, himself included. This will most certainly be their doom.

Out of the corner of his eye, he wonders where Manolo is wandering off to. Did he ever take the cold iron dagger that he gave him ... or was it discarded on the cave floor?

Mortimer takes a side-step and sends a shadowy ray of frost at one of the gremlins in front of Drack.

(Mortimer casts Ray of Frost at gremlin in front of Drack. Hit TouchAC 17. Damage: d3 = 1 cold damage.)

The young sorcerer thanks Wardd for making a lucky shot. He only wishes his attack was more potent.

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 11/17 AC:19
Wednesday February 2nd, 2022 11:27:45 AM
"Let's move back!" Torryn encouraged them. Stowe's experience was not to be ignored. They should restrict the creature's opportunities to attack.
"Drack, take my spear." She encouraged.

OOC: Torryn has acted already, but speaking is a free action.
The plan is for her to step back, pass the spear to Drack and then cast her spell. Drack only has to survive 1 more round. thereafter he can step back and use the spear at range. Torryn will step into the fray seeking to occupy the gremlin's attention and attacking unarmed.

Heheheh...ouch!!! (DM BatMark) d20+6=23 ; d20+6=7 ; d20+6=13 ; d20+6=8 ;
Wednesday February 2nd, 2022 8:01:15 PM
Ash moves up closer to the battle and scans the ceiling.
Mortimer sends a ray of frost into gremlin 3, wounding it slightly.
Manolo steps into the narrow side passage.
Torrynashkabbeth steps back and casts a spell, in readiness to return to the front line.
Mole also moves up to support.
Stowe misses with her hammer, and shouts some tactical advice to the party.
Drack lands a blow with his sword on gremlin 3.
Loryn gets sarcastic with himself this time, then moves up to fire an errant acid ray, narrowly missing his companions.

You notice that you are easily able to back away from these tiny creatures without offering them an opportunity to stick you again as you retreat. Drack’s strike hits home, but does not seem as effective as normal. Perhaps this type of gremlin is one of the ones that you need cold iron to damage easily. It still was a solid blow, and combined with Mortimer’s ray of frost is enough to stop the little critter from snickering so nastily; it wails instead. Ash sees that the ceiling in this cave is 15 feet high, but notes nothing else immediately interesting above. Manolo sees and hears nothing new down the unexplored side passage to the south.

The first two gremlins move up to attack Stowe again, but without the advantage of surprise, seem less sure about attacking such a stalwart foe. Only one strikes true, and that only for 1hp of damage. The other two move on Drack, but thrust ineffectually. Could the fight be swinging in the party’s favor?

Gremlin 1 AC: 18 (Touch 17) undamaged
Gremlin 2 AC: 18 (Touch 17) undamaged
Gremlin 3 AC: 18 (Touch 17) -4hp
Gremlin 4 AC: 18 (Touch 17) undamaged

Here is a map.

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 11/17 AC:23
Thursday February 3rd, 2022 6:37:19 AM
Torryn swiftly used the chance to invoke her magic . A ghostly wall of slowly falling leaves appeared before her. It was easy to see through the leaves as the ghostly transparent shapes appeared only briefly before vanishing to reappear lower and lower before disappearing altogether.
"I have them." She told Drack, ready to retake her place on the front line.

OOC: Shield and Mage Armour in effect.
2 spells cast.
Torryn will retain the spear if Drack doesn't want it. If he does, she'll readily relinquish it.

Drack (Chris J) - hp 7/18 - AC 16 d20+8=23 ; d10+7=16 ;
Thursday February 3rd, 2022 8:35:33 AM
Drack swings at gremlin 3 and then tries to fall back without incurring attacks of opportunity to G4 to allow Loryn to cast the spell. If unable to move that far without incurring attacks of opportunity, Drack will free 5' to F4.

(hit ac 14, damage:16)

Magic Weapon from Loryn 8/10

Drack (Chris J) - hp 7/18 - AC 16
Thursday February 3rd, 2022 9:10:11 AM
(Correction. Hit ac 23.)

Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 15/15 d20+2=9 ; d20+2=11 ;
Thursday February 3rd, 2022 9:56:24 AM
Ash scoops a cricket up off the cave wall, and holds it in his fist. He blows into it, while moving his off hand. He whispers.... "Sleep". Cast Sleep started at #4 and moving to more if needed.

Spell Resistance 9, Hero Pt used Spell Resistance 11

AC 13 HP 13/13 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K d4=2 ; d4=3 ; d4=2 ;
Thursday February 3rd, 2022 10:28:49 AM
Loryns waits for the others to fall back, steps to the side (F4) and then casts Color Spray catching G4, G3, G2 in the 15' cone.
Will DC 15

Spells Active:
Dancing Lights 9/10
Magic Weapon Drack's sword 8/10

Loryn was at G5 or G6; or maybe F5, F6 but has now disappeared from the map. guys, when moving your spot, please don't simply overwrite someone else position

Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.): hp:15/15. ac:13 d20+4=6 ; d3=2 ;
Thursday February 3rd, 2022 11:37:37 AM
Seeing that everyone appears to be taking tactical steps back, Mortimer will do the same.

(He takes a 5ft step to I6)

Drack's appears to have delivered a crushing blow to the third gremlin. If it still lives after such a devastating attack, he will try to finish it off. If the bugger crumbles to the floor, Mortimer will target the fourth gremlin, who appears to be trying to flank.

(Mortimer casts Ray of Frost on Gremlin4. Hit TouchAC: 6. Damage: 2 Cold Damage.)

He is amazed by how flashy and colorful Loryn's spells are. Mortimer's magic is rather dark and drab in comparison. However, he is okay with it.

Stowe; (Allen D); HP: 17/26; AC: 22; F: 5; R: 5; W: 1; CMD: 19 d20=14 ; d8+4=7 ;
Thursday February 3rd, 2022 12:49:27 PM
Stowe attacks the Gremlin in front of her, hoping it doesn't move to flank. She smacks it with some force (hit AC 20) using the cold iron hammer.

She looks to step back, but the way isn't clear, so she stands her ground, protecting the young wizard.

Mole; (RichP) AC 18; HP 18/18; CMD 14
Thursday February 3rd, 2022 4:42:02 PM
"Club fiodha" says Mole and his club glows with a green light. Mole steps into the gap to allow Drack to withdraw.

Spells:
0 - Flare, Guidance, Light, Stabilize
1 - CLW, Faerie Fire, (c) Shillelagh, (d) Magic Stone

Acid bolt 7/day (1d6+1)
Pearl of Power (used)

Bam, Bam, Snooze, Bamff! (DM BatMark) d20+4=14 ;
Thursday February 3rd, 2022 8:05:00 PM
Drack absolutely crushes gremlin 3, which falls in a heap, then the half-elf steps back.
Torrynashkabbeth finishes her shield spell, then steps to the fore.
Ash casts sleep, putting gremlin 4 into a deep slumber Highlight to display spoiler: {In Pathfinder, sleep affects a radius, and you don’t get to choose the victims–it goes strictly by hit dice. In this case, you could have put some of your allies to sleep, but I repositioned it to only catch G4 and G3, assuming that Ash would have known the risks. G3 is of course already dead. Also, these things don’t have spell resistance, so you can keep your hero point.}
Mortimer shoots a ray of frost at gremlin 4, but misses as it slumps to the ground, asleep from Ash’s spell. Good thing too, as that damage could have woken it back up!
Manolo continues to watch down the narrow side passage, but sees and hears nothing new.Highlight to display spoiler: {I chose this based on the email thread, but in the future please do post officially so I don’t have to interpret your intentions.}
Mole steps up into the gap that Drack created, after casting a spell on his club, which now glows with a green light.
Stowe smashes gremlin 2, felling it in one mighty blow. What do you know, this cold iron stuff really works!
Loryn tries to step forward to cast a color spray, but is jostled aside by his larger companions, the big lugs.Highlight to display spoiler: {Normally, I would have let things play out in posting order, but in this case, the jostling saves you a casting of the spell, so I Iet the other players’ mistakes moving around the map play out in your favor :) }

The party seems to have found its groove. Two of the gremlins are dead, and a third is asleep. The last remaining active one (gremlin 1) stops cackling, looks around in dismay, makes a sad hooting sound, and disappears with a popping sound, leaving behind only shimmering motes of light that quickly fade away. (You may make a DC19 spellcraft check to try to determine what effect allowed the gremlin to vanish.) Gremlin 4 lies at your feet, completely at your mercy for now. What’s next?

Here is a map.

Manolo d20+6=22 ;
Thursday February 3rd, 2022 9:50:13 PM
Manolo keeps walking towards the unknown shouting to Mortimer "I want to explore this place... I am curious to know what is...in this place"

Perception 22

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 11/17 AC:23
Friday February 4th, 2022 5:40:02 AM
Torryn had no clue as to how the little gremlin had vanished. He was gone, or appeared to be; at least for now. There was though the matter of the 'sleeping' one. She couldn't afford to let it wake. As soon as it did, it too would vanish. Then there'd be two miscreants intent on harming the good folk hereabouts. No one would thank them for permitting that to happen.
"I'm going to kill it." She whispered quietly to those nearby and then stepped forward, her spear raised ready to be plunged into the nasty, little creature's chest.

OOC: You can't use Spellcraft untrained and Torryn is most definitely untrained.
NB: Whilst slaying a 'captive' creature is evil, killing an evil creature that is momentarily incapacitated is less so, particularly given the points raised above. I have not had Torryn kill the gremlin yet, being mindful of the underlying Woldian philosophy. Should someone have a better idea: one that won't permit the evil creature to perpetrate further harm, Torryn will hold off. She's only doing this because she ses no other realistic option.

House Rule on prisoners (DM BatMark)
Friday February 4th, 2022 5:59:22 AM
Regarding the potential moral dilemma, here is the Woldian House Rule:

"Prisoners
One of the most common moral dilemmas that comes up in the Wold is what to do with prisoners. There is often debate around questions such as: what will happen if they are set free? What if they hurt others after release? Is it right to kill an unarmed prisoner? To allow games to resolve questions like these, the Wold has a framework that allows adventurers to show mercy where possible and to slay monsters without remorse when necessary.

It is NOT an evil act to kill evil creatures that won't repent or change their ways. If prisoners do repent of their misdeeds, they deserve the chance, and they will follow through. They cannot lie or bluff about it. If they don't agree to change their ways, then tradition, law, and the gods themselves allow you to slay them to keep innocents safe. Creatures that are inherently evil (such as demons, devils or creatures with the 'evil' subtype) will never repent.

If you opt to let your prisoners live, you can choose other non-lethal solutions, including handing them over to the local authorities, banishing, casting enchantment spells, or simply releasing them. Whatever approach you choose, you needn't worry about what they do in the future. A captive that has been released will no longer pose a threat to the Wold. They will go into isolation, or meet a foul end, or reform of their own accord, or some other such thing. The Wold will be safe from them.

The intent here is to allow adventurers to show that mercy and respect for life are stronger forces in this fantasy world than cruelty, deception, and ambiguity may be in other worlds. You have won the day and can move on knowing that you have done the right thing."

Bottom line is that no matter what you choose, this particular critter will not come back to haunt you.

Stowe; (Allen D); HP: 17/26; AC: 22; F: 5; R: 5; W: 1; CMD: 19 d20+6=15 ; d20+6=14 ;
Friday February 4th, 2022 6:57:02 AM
Stowe draws a deep breath and winces from her wounds. That fight was easier than she'd expected, but she still got cut up a bit.

She sees Tooryn raise her spear and Stowe calmly steps forward and puts a hand on Torryn's shoulder, "We can't just kill the thing, it's helpless." She turns to the others, "Does anyone want to try speaking to it?"

She pulls a rope from her pack and starts binding the gremlin, paying particular attention to the hands, as one does with anything that casts spells.

She pats it down for anything it might be carrying. Annoying little buggers, but they don't look so scary up close. Though, these might be juveniles for all we know. They certainly went down easier than that first one.

ooc
- rolled survival for binding an opponent (not sure if that's the right skill)
- rolled perception for searching it
- i have no idea what language they speak, but maybe we can find out how many more of them to expect, or why they're attacking?

Drack (Chris J) - hp 11/18 - AC 16 d8+1=4 ;
Friday February 4th, 2022 8:36:34 AM
Drack pulls out and drinks his healing potion after seeing that all the enemies were down or gone, healing for 4.

"Well, that didn't do much. must not have been a very potent one. Lovely."

"I'm all for protecting those that need it, but killing an unconscious creature is something that shouldn't be done unless absolutely necessary. Odds are, its gonna poof out of here when it wakes up, but I'm thinking its not going to want to go in the direction that we going. For self preservation sake, it's probably gonna leave this area entirely. With the number of them we've killed already, I don't think he will want to face us again."

"Let's let him wake up, and see if he wants to tell us if they have a reason for what they are doing to the town, or if they are just having fun. Either way, I think we should be heading down that tiny tunnel shortly before they have even more time to prepare or leave."

"On that note, I'm still pretty tore up. anyone got any extra healing available?"

Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 15/15 d20+10=18 ;
Friday February 4th, 2022 9:27:27 AM
Ash thinks for a second, thinking he knows what magic is used... but then its a fleeting memory that goes away. (Spellcraft 18)

"Pay attention to the hands, interlock the fingers and give it no wiggle room. Might want to stuff a rag in its mouth for the time being."

Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.): hp:15/15. ac:13 d20+1=17 ;
Friday February 4th, 2022 10:16:55 AM
Answering Manolo, Mortimer requests, "Manolo ... Grog told me it wasn't wise to wander off alone when dealing with these bum-muppets. They like to separate people from groups and gut them by surprise."

Mortimer doesn't have any problem dispatching the bum-muppet, awake or asleep. Death is only a door to the other side. There are worse things than death. However he hasn't completely 'read the room' on this particular subject. He has found it wise to not offer up his opinions unsolicited.

Being a newbie to magic, Mortimer asks, "What's going to keep the lil bugger from popping out, like the other one, when he wakes up?"

He casts a simple divination to see if there are any magical effects in the area or on the sleeping gremlin.

(Mortimer casts Detect Magic. Duration: Concentration, up to 2 minutes.)

(Perception: 17)

AC 13 HP 13/13 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K d20+9=14 ;
Friday February 4th, 2022 11:22:40 AM
Loryn lets out a few grumbles as the biggers bounce him about, but in the end the result was what the group wanted. Learning curve. He thinks to himself. They are young and we are all still pretty new to each other. Don't want to turn into a dwarf.

Unfortunately Loryn cannot quite place the magic the gremlin used. Spellcraft 14

He agrees immediately with Torry, "Oh yes we can. It's an evil fey, a creature of vileness and without remorse or the ability to change. It's nature is evil and malicious. We let it go, it kills again and becomes the problem of someone else. It should be destroyed as surely as we would a demon and tying its hands doesn't likely slow it down at all. It is innate magic being used here, not the cumbersome casting of us mortals." He pauses a bit from his what was beginning to sound like a tirade. "I understand all of your thoughts on this, but your mercy is misplaced and puts others in danger. Put it down and grant mercy to those it would bring harm or even death to in the future."

Loryn has said he piece and as he didn't have a weapon at all, he couldn't do it and would simply have to hope the others make the right decision before the thing escaped with the other

The Dancing Lights wink out, leaving the cave to be only lit by Mole's spell and the torch in his hand

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 11/17 AC:23
Friday February 4th, 2022 12:10:35 PM
There were more important things than killing the "bum-muppet". Torryn lowered her spear, to the side. She then retrieved a couple of potions and handed one to Drack.
"You need to be fit and well against these....um...gremmies. She wasn't happy about using such vernacular as 'bum-muppets'. Looking after her friends was important. She handed the other potion to Stowe.
"Here, Stowie; drink this." She didn't consider her own hurts serious enough to merit the use of such magic. Besides, Stowe and Drack were warriors. She was just a dancer. She'd get better after a good rest.
It was one thing to stab a foe that had just been trying to tear her to pieces, quite another to plunge a spear into a bound living creature. Previously she hadn't considered her actions. She was merely reacting. The pause meant that the moment had gone. Unless the gremlin attacked again, someone else would have to slay it.

OOC: I believe that in Pathfinder you use your base CMB to tie ropes etc.
Also, thanks for the detailed explanation of morality: most helpful.

Stowe; (Allen D); HP: 17/26; AC: 22; F: 5; R: 5; W: 1; CMD: 19 d8+1=7 ;
Friday February 4th, 2022 12:45:49 PM
"Thanks Torryn, but I should be giving you potions! I gave some extras." She hands it back and drinks one odd her own.

To Loryn she replies,
"Are fey creatures of evil? They just seem different ro me, maybe a little wild. But a wild wolf isn't evil, it just does what it does to survive. Isn't Torryn touched by the Fey? Is she evil?"

OOC:
I actually don't know the fey alignment in Golarion, or the Wold. If they are truly evil then stab away!

Stowe; (Allen D); HP: 24/26; AC: 22; F: 5; R: 5; W: 1; CMD: 19
Friday February 4th, 2022 12:48:15 PM
Edit: Before I forget, updating HP in the header.
Sorry for all the typos. My phone is taking liberties with the autocorrect. Also i should proofread...

Drack (Chris J) - hp 11/18 - AC 16 d8+1=6 ;
Friday February 4th, 2022 1:09:45 PM
Drack accepts the potion from Torry. "Thanks Torry. Either I'm gonna have to upgrade my defense or start buying more of these potions." Drack drinks the potion. (6 healing.)

"Loryn, If you are sure about the inherent evil thing, go ahead and do what needs to be done. I am not sure, so I will not wield the executioners blade."

Drack (Chris J) - hp 17/18 - AC 16
Friday February 4th, 2022 1:10:51 PM
(Header update)

Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.): hp:15/15. ac:13
Friday February 4th, 2022 3:27:14 PM
After listening to the debate over the sanctity of life and evil, murderous, degenerate fey creatures, Mortimer can't help but chime in.

"They murdered Minerva's man and almost suffocated her. They tried to burn Agatha, Ezra and half the town. They set a pair of drunken ogres on a large crowd of innocent townsfolk. Not to mention, almost killing me. When has a wolf ever done that? Why is there any question? Fey or not, hand me the spear ... give it a proper shanking, I will!"

Manolo d20+6=12 ;
Friday February 4th, 2022 8:33:38 PM
Manolo goes back near the group just near the intersection to make sure no one surprises them.
He still keeps a watchful eye to that part
Perception 12

Good versus evil (DM BatMark)
Friday February 4th, 2022 8:56:32 PM
Ash almost figures out what magic the gremlin used to vanish, but can’t quite recall. He suggests ways to keep the gremlin from causing more mischief upon awaking.
Mortimer warns Manolo against wandering off alone, and describes how evil this little gremlin is. He tries to discern magic nearby, and certainly detects some. With a little more time, he can tell that one aura is on the sleeping gremlin, and another is where the other gremlin vanished. Make a DC19 Knowledge arcana check Highlight to display spoiler: {The vanished gremlin left behind a moderately strong lingering aura of conjuration; the sleeping gremlin is under a weak enchantment, presumably the sleep spell.}
Manolo nevertheless walks a little further down the narrow side tunnel and finds that it seems to spiral sharply to the left and down. He then returns to the intersection to await the party.
Torrynashkabbeth wrestles with her conscience, but eventually decides not to kill the helpless gremlin. She offers a healing potion to Stowie.
Mole stands quietly with his glowing, green club.
Stowe helps talk Torryn out of killing the gremlin, and notes that she has healing potions of her own to offer. She wonders whether the gremlin is truly evil.
Drack drinks a healing potion and advocates for letting the gremlin wake up, but is ok with slaying it if it is evil.. He gladly accepts another potion from Torryn.
Loryn is a little grumpy about getting jostled, but puts his annoyance aside. He is all for killing the evil little fey, but has no weapon to do it himself.

With the party seemingly split, the gremlin slumbers on, possibly dreaming of the next wicked thing he will perpetrate, or unicorns, or whatever else a gremlin might dream of. By the remaining lights, you can see a few gleams of potential interesting bits within the gremlin nest. With the gremlins dead or gone, you safely recover 300 gp worth of mixed trinkets, a hand crossbow, a MW set of thieves’ tools, a MW field cooking kit, and a set of MW finger cymbals.

Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.): hp:15/15. ac:13 d20+4=15 ;
Friday February 4th, 2022 9:59:35 PM
(Knowledge [Arcana]: 15.)

Mortimer thinks he knows what he’s looking at, but he can’t put his finger on it. Or the fact he can’t pronounce word about the thing for the whatchacallit.

Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.): hp:15/15. ac:13 d20+4=15 ;
Friday February 4th, 2022 11:43:27 PM
(Knowledge [Arcana]: 15.)

Mortimer thinks he knows what he’s looking at, but he can’t put his finger on it. Or the fact he can’t pronounce word about the thing for the whatchacallit.

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 17/17 AC:23 d8=7 ; d20=11 ; d20=3 ; d20=10 ; d20=19 ; d20=11 ;
Saturday February 5th, 2022 7:41:59 AM
Torryn drank the potion. There was no point in waiting until she was even more hurt. That done she knelt and woke the gremlin. Her spear lay gently against its throat. She spoke to it in Elven, believing that her father's tongue was sufficiently close to Fey that it would understand.

OOC: I would do the whole invisible text thing if I could, but have no idea how that works. So for the sake of speed will disclose her words. Just go with the tone if you don't speak Elven.

"You are beaten." She began softly and calmly. "I could have slain you, but I did not. Instead, I offer a choice: repent you ways, do evil no more and leave these lans never to return, or perish, here and now." She smiled pleasantly in conclusion. She really wasn't looking forward to killing the thing, but would it sought to vanish, struggle or curse her. Truly, she needed little inducement. The smile was there to mask her nervousness.

OOC: Bluff D20+3 = 14. To disguise her nervousness with the smile. Also applies to the rest of the group: opposed check: Sense Motive, DC14.
Forget the other rolls. Those were accidental and entirely unintended. (I have to look down to type!)

Stowe; (Allen D); HP: 24/26; AC: 22/13/19; F: 5; R: 5; W: 1; CMD: 19
Saturday February 5th, 2022 9:53:10 AM
Stowe stands behind the gremlin with her cold iron hammer at the ready. She never had any real attitude for languages, so can't understand what Torryn says. I wish I spoke Sylvan or something useful..

Mole; (RichP) AC 18; HP 18/18; CMD 14 d20+9=18 ;
Saturday February 5th, 2022 5:54:30 PM
While the others find trinkets and other things in the bedding of the gremlins, Mole takes the time to check out the small cave the group is standing in. He looks at the stability of the cave.

Profession (miner) - DC 18

Spells:
0 - Flare, Guidance, Light, Stabilize
1 - CLW, Faerie Fire, (c) Shillelagh, (d) Magic Stone

Acid bolt 7/day (1d6+1)
Pearl of Power (used)

Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.): ac13/13/10. hp15/15. d20+1=3 ;
Saturday February 5th, 2022 6:26:44 PM
After trying to identify the magic used by the gremlin, of course, he comes up with nothing. He can only see the magical effects, he has no idea what they were. It's safe to assume that the aura around the sleeping gremlin is Ash's sleep spell. Even though there is much Mortimer needs to learn, he's amazed at what he does know. That fact is especially curious, since he's never cracked a single book on the subject. What's even more strange is that he can now speak and read High Woldian! "Whaav'uk up wiavh avhaav?" (translation: "What's up with that?")

Mortimer looks on with irritation at what is happening before him. He wonders why we are giving this obviously evil gremlin a chance to lie his way out of execution. He wishes his spells were more lethal. He would've ended its life right now. His thoughts go back to the cold-iron dagger that he gave to Manolo. It's still unclear if he picked it up. Mortimer decides to go back to the entrance and see if it was left there on the cave floor. (Perception: 3)

AC 13 HP 13/13 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K
Monday February 7th, 2022 7:00:26 AM
Loryn nods his head vigorously at Stowe's question. "Yes! Yes they are. This is not a wolf, or orc or some such creature of our world. It is fey. It can no more change its nature than a vampire can." He looks up at the group a little confused, but this was their nature it would seem and not a bad nature necessarily. He had said his piece and the group had decided a different direction.

As Torry leans in speaking in what sounded like Elvish, Lorryn cannot help but let out a sigh. He perks up an eyebrow at the cooking set and decides that the gremlin is dealt with. The others were taking on this one and that was done. Being one of the party supplying light by the torch he had, Loryn does not go far, just a few steps back to await the outcome and the group to be done here and head to the other small passage

Drack (Chris J) - hp 17/18 - AC 16
Monday February 7th, 2022 8:37:19 AM
Drack waits for the fate of the gremlin to be determined, but stands by at the ready in case he is needed. He does not hold out hope that the gremlin will do anything but vanish.

"Mortimer, are you collecting whatever there is of valuables, so that once this is settled we can move on?"

"Torry, we need to make this quick. We do not want to give them more time than we have to."

Stowe; (Allen D); HP: 24/26; AC: 22/13/19; F: 5; R: 5; W: 1; CMD: 19 d20+6=24 ; d8+4=7 ;
Monday February 7th, 2022 10:30:56 AM
"Let's just hear what it has to say. If it looks like it's trying to escape I'll mash it!" Stowe hefts her hammer menacingly.

"If you're sure Loryn, then maybe we shouldn't let it live. True evil shouldn't be free to terrorize the innocent."

She doesn't make a move to take the cooking kit that comes out of the nest, possibly distracted by the captive.

[I]ooc:
-prepare an attack on the gremlin, if it attempts escape
-mw cookware is all yours Loryn![/ooc]

Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 15/15
Monday February 7th, 2022 10:46:39 AM
"Its an evil creature, correct? then nothing we do will change it. If we were to bring it back to the village they would most likely kill it anyway... but if they followed our lead and tried imprisoned it and it escape, then we are responsible for those deaths it would likely cause. If we're voting, I say dispatch the thing and leave it. We have more pressing issues to deal with."

Manolo d20+6=21 ;
Monday February 7th, 2022 7:05:35 PM
Manolo keeps a watch.
Perception 21

What's Gremlin for "See ya, suckers!" (DM BatMark)
Monday February 7th, 2022 7:56:55 PM
Ash is all for dispatching the evil gremlin, to avoid it doing further harm if it escapes.
Mortimer can’t quite place the magical auras, but can at least discern that the sleeping one only has one aura, which is presumably the sleep spell that he already knows about. He wonders why the party isn’t just killing the evil thing, and feels his hand on the pommel of the cold iron dagger that he had offered to Manolo, but the latter never accepted.
Manolo keeps a sharp watch.
Torrynashkabbeth drinks another healing potion, then holds a weapon on the gremlin before waking it. She offers it a chance to repent in Elven.
Mole checks out the stability of the cave you are standing in.
Stowe stands ready with her hammer, waiting to hear the gremlin’s response..
Drack is also ready for the gremlin to do something deserving of a blow, and hopes the party can collect the loot and move on soon.
Loryn Agrees that this thing is evil and cannot change its ways, and waits for the situation to be resolved by those closest.

As the party continues to discuss the merits of the newly awakened gremlin’s potential rehabilitation, it looks about in fright and confusion. It does not seem to understand Torryn’s Elven speech, but chirps out in a language strange to most of you ”Tai'luen uns'aa qualla, Dorn xun jalbol dos ssinssrin!” Ash may Highlight to display spoiler: {The gremlin is saying “Spare me, I’ll do anything you want!” in Undercommon.} After it says this, though, you see it seems to steel itself, and its eyes appear to focus elsewhere for a moment. It is clearly trying to use some power to escape, but you have an opportunity to interrupt its attempt. Those who prepared nearby may make opportunity attacks at an extra +4 to hit vs AC 8. Manolo continues to detect nothing new in the side passage, while Mole determines that the cavern you are in is stable and geologically safe.

Here is a map.

Mole; (RichP) AC 18; HP 18/18; CMD 14 d20+3=5 ;
Monday February 7th, 2022 10:16:23 PM
Mole is surprised by the sudden action of the Gremlin. (Since Mole was surveying the cave, I assume is not ready to make an AoO.)

Spells:
0 - Flare, Guidance, Light, Stabilize
1 - CLW, Faerie Fire, (c) Shillelagh, (d) Magic Stone

Acid bolt 7/day (1d6+1)
Pearl of Power (used)

Stowe; (Allen D); HP: 24/26; AC: 22/13/19; F: 5; R: 5; W: 1; CMD: 19 d20+6=8 ; d8+4=11 ;
Monday February 7th, 2022 11:11:08 PM
Stowe hears the gremlin sputter out some gibberish, then its face takes the unmistakable look of one casting a spell. Something foul and harmful? Just a spell to escape? There's no way to know. She doesn't hesitate, but brings her hammer crashing down on its skull.

OOC:
-i forgot the +4, so should hit AC12

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 17/17 AC:23 d20=13 ; d6=3 ;
Tuesday February 8th, 2022 5:48:38 AM
That wasn't good. It seemed that Torryn's propensity for impulsive action had backfired again. Only this time it was likely not just herself who'd pay the price. At least this time she'd taken a few precautions; namely, having her spear tip over the creature's heart. She quickly pushed down hard before she had time to really think about what she was doing.

[13+4=17 to hit. 3 damage with Cold iron.]

Drack (Chris J) - hp 17/18 - AC 16
Tuesday February 8th, 2022 8:50:29 AM
Drack stands by, letting the events unfold, as he is not within striking distance at the moment. If the gremlin does escape, Drack plans to make him target #1 if they encounter it again.

AC 13 HP 13/13 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K d20+2=19 ;
Tuesday February 8th, 2022 9:52:09 AM
Loryn tries his best to keep the 'Told ya so' look off of his face. With the business of the gremlin dealt with, he moves to the passage Manolo has been keeping an eye on for the group and waits for Mole to take point through the tighter area.

"I think Mole and I take lead and then Stowe, Drack and Torry squeeze through following. I got a torch, Mole can see anyway and so we should be good, just don't take too long."

With that, if an accord is reached, Loryn follows Mole down the passage

Perception 19

Manolo (Michael A) -- AC 17/15/12 -- CMD 17 -- HP 13/13 d20+6=18 ;
Tuesday February 8th, 2022 7:44:25 PM

Perception Manolo keeps his eyes in front of him but tries to also hear what all this commotion that might be starting at the back is about.

Perception 18

Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.): ac13/13/10. hp15/15.
Tuesday February 8th, 2022 7:51:38 PM
While the gremlin's head is being bashed in, Mortimer continues taking inventory of all the items he has, like the cold-iron dagger that he tried to give to Manolo. Thankfully he found it before making his way back to the cave's entrance. What a pleasant surprise!

>>THWACK!<<

Unfazed by the splattering of gremlin blood, he asks, "Ohh Loryn, do you want to claim the cookware?"

>>STAB!<<

"Torryn, do you like these finger cymbals? Once saw a dancer, I did, use things such as these."

>>SPLAT!<<

"Ohhh, what a nice set of tools!"

>>SQUIRT!<<

Mortimer carefully gathers up the rest of the treasure, unless someone wishes to claim it.

Drack (Chris J) - hp 17/18 - AC 16
Tuesday February 8th, 2022 8:04:24 PM
Drack leaves the others to deal with the bound gremlin. He quickly looks toward the tunnel to see that everything is all right over there, and then walks over to see how Mortimer is doing.

“Find anything good Mortimer? Everything we find will be split up amongst all of us. Anyone who wants an item can keep it, but the norm is for them to contribute the sale value of said item back to the group, or take the value as their part of the treasure take. I’m glad you are keeping the inventory. I’m sure you will do a good and honest job. Need any help, or do you have it covered?”

Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 15/15
Tuesday February 8th, 2022 9:05:07 PM
Ash closes his eyes as the killing is taken care of. He wasn't a squeamish man, but he didn't want the image of the gremlins head smashing to be burned into his eyelids when he would sleep.

That wasn't so bad... (DM BatMark)
Tuesday February 8th, 2022 9:08:09 PM
Torrynashkabbeth has a few regrets as she spears the gremlin when it twitches suspiciously.
Mole is taken aback by the sudden action of the gremlin.
Stowe sees the gremlin start to cast a spell, and smashes it with her hammer.
Drack stands by as his companions deal with the critter, and helps Mortimer sort the loot.
Loryn fails to keep his “I told you so” from showing through, then heads over to the side passage, offering suggestions re the party order in the narrow tunnel.
Ash closes his eyes to avoid nightmares.
Mortimer sees to the collection and allocation of treasure.
Manolo keeps an eye and ear out in all directions.

The gremlin barely has time to blink before a wave of death comes down, interrupting whatever it was trying to do. The nasty little creature is no more.

The narrow tunnel awaits, if you dare. If so, do you make any other preparations before moving down it in single file?

Here is a map.

Stowe; (Allen D); HP: 24/26; AC: 22/13/19; F: 5; R: 5; W: 1; CMD: 19
Tuesday February 8th, 2022 9:47:24 PM
Stowe looks down at the poor dead thing, a touch of regret in her eyes. "I hope that was the right thing to do."

She slowly walks towards the small side tunnel to try and squeeze through it

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 17/17 AC:23
Wednesday February 9th, 2022 7:13:31 AM
"It was". Torryn assured Stowe with only a little uncertainty.

Perhaps she should have just stabbed it straight away. Probably she should, but she'd never "assassinated" anything before. It didn't feel good, but she was relieved that her misgivings hadn't caused anyone amongst her group to suffer. Torryn though, was nothing if not flighty and gloomy thoughts rarely beset her for long. The job was not yet done.

By the time that she'd caught up with the others her Fey Shield had winked out. (Only lasts 1 minute). She still had the protection of the Fey armour however. It would likely be a boon in such narrow confines.

Going behind Drack and Stowe didn't make a lot of sense to her. She wore no bulky armour and was smaller than both in any case. That being noted, both were far more capable in a fight and Torryn still had her Fey Spark to fall back on if need be.

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 17/17 AC:19/19/15: CMD: 15. F:2; R: 6; W: 5.
Wednesday February 9th, 2022 7:29:21 AM
[OOC: Header updated.]

Drack (Chris J) - hp 17/18 - AC 16
Wednesday February 9th, 2022 8:29:36 AM
Drack assists Mortimer to save time, and then moves to take his place in the order behind Stowe, as called by Loryn.

"Alright boys and girls. Let's finish this and end the threat to village."

Mole; (RichP) AC 18; HP 18/18; CMD 14 d20+9=20 ;
Wednesday February 9th, 2022 10:05:49 AM
"Ok, I'll take the lead." He nods to Drack in agreement. Mole moves to take the lead down the narrow tunnel.

Perception DC20

Active Spells: Shillelagh (15 rds)

Spells:
0 - Flare, Guidance, Light, Stabilize
1 - CLW, Faerie Fire, (c) Shillelagh, (d) Magic Stone

Acid bolt 7/day (1d6+1)
Pearl of Power (used)

Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 15/15
Wednesday February 9th, 2022 12:31:56 PM
"It was Stowe, that creature would do much worse to you, if it was you on the other end. Don't cry, its a waste of good suffering." He moves up to Torryn and pats her on the shoulder. " I am relieved we have someone like you around, you made the right move. Are you Okay?"

AC 13 HP 13/13 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K
Wednesday February 9th, 2022 3:11:29 PM
Loryn holds up a hand, "Plenty of time back at Minerva's over a victory stout to divide up our treasures." He gives Mole a pat on the shoulder and falls in directly behind the dwarf, holding the torch in his left hand just above and behind himself.

Perception 19 from last post

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 17/17 AC:19/19/15: CMD: 15. F:2; R: 6; W: 5.
Wednesday February 9th, 2022 5:26:18 PM
"Oh, yes." Torryn confirmed. "It wasn't a pleasant thing to do, but I see that it was necessary. perhaps....well, I think Loryn was right; I really should have finished the foul thing sooner. Not that it matters now. It's dead and won't be hurting anyone else for a while" She smiled at Ash, demonstrating the mercurial nature of her emotions and that she was rarely downbeat for long.

Stowe; (Allen D); HP: 24/26; AC: 22/13/19; F: 5; R: 5; W: 1; CMD: 19
Wednesday February 9th, 2022 5:41:36 PM
Stowe squeezes in behind Loryn. It's tight! She struggles to control her breathing for a second, and some might notice her hands trembling every time her armor snags on a rough patch of rock. You're going to make it through. The cave won't collapse and bury you under tons and tons of rock, closing in with no way to move... She tries to calm her nerves, though it doesn't seem to be working.

Manolo (Michael A) -- AC 17/15/12 -- CMD 17 -- HP 13/13 d20+6=10 ;
Wednesday February 9th, 2022 6:25:58 PM
Manolo tries to look ahead but just keeps distracted by looki g behind always thinking if perhaps it wasn't too easy to find gremlins and attack them. (Gremlins)
Perception 10

Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.): ac13/13/10. hp15/15. d20+1=16 ;
Wednesday February 9th, 2022 8:12:58 PM
"Won't be hurting anyone at all, not on this side, they won't," he remarks to Torryn's statement. "I know this may be upsetting, but some good will come out of it. You could takes these," he hands Torryn the masterwork finger cymbals, " perhaps you could dance with these back at Minerva's. Lift her spirits as well." Mortimer means this in all sincerity. While he lacks the ability to empathize with their sadness, they certainly do have his sympathy.

Then turning back to Drack, he replies, "Thanks, we're takin' on a right proper load from these dodgers. Hope there's more!" Since no one else will claim the cold-iron dagger, he adds its scabbard to his belt. Nothing wrong with having three daggers; more the merrier.

After everything is put away, he takes his position in the middle of the line as they head on in the corridor.
Again, he casts Detect Magic and prepares for the worst. (Perception: 16)

(Mortimer casts Detect Magic. Duration: concentration, up to 2 minutes.)

Down you go! (DM BatMark)
Wednesday February 9th, 2022 9:33:42 PM

Ash reaffirms to Stowe that you did the right thing, and offers comfort to Torryn.
Mortimer takes satisfaction at the gremlin’s demise, and suggests that Torryn could use the masterwork finger cymbals in her dance routines. (OOC: Yes, that should work in appropriate situations, so she would get a +2 bonus.) He beams his detect magic ahead, but detects nothing new at the moment.
Manolo tries to look around, but is looking in too many directions at once.
Torrynashkabbeth thinks this was probably the right thing to do, and quickly moves on to other thoughts.
Mole agrees to take point in the marching order.
Stowe has some regret, but starts trying to squeeze into the side passage, nerves jangling slightly.
Drack helps distribute loot, then moves into his place in the marching order.
Loryn gives Mole a pat on the shoulder and falls in line, torch held aloft.

The party is able to slither through the narrow passage, the human-sized folk squeezing in many places. The passage winds down and to the left, turning several circles before coming to a bend that seems to lead into another cavern. The sound of flowing water grows louder as you proceed, but is still gentle, not roaring.

What do you wish to do at the bend before the cavern?

Here is a map.

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 17/17 AC:19/19/15: CMD: 15. F:2; R: 6; W: 5. d20=12 ;
Thursday February 10th, 2022 6:49:53 AM
Torryn gratefully accepted the finger cymbals. She'd never used such things before. Indeed, she'd never seen their like, but looked forward to dancing with them. Dancing though, would have to wait. There was still the matter of some evil gremlins intent upon visiting untold woes upon her village.

The tunnel was small, even for her. She marvelled at Drack and Stowe's capacity to determinedly push through. For her the passage was merely uncomfortable, not challenging. She pushed on, but only as swiftly as those in front permitted. Even though she was in the middle of the group, she did her best to remain alert for trouble.

[Perception d20+7: 19]

Drack (Chris J) - hp 17/18 - AC 16
Thursday February 10th, 2022 9:33:02 AM
Mole, Loryn? Should Stowe and I take the front before it opens up? If they are waiting on either side of the opening, we may have to fight our way in to make room for more of us to move in."

Drack waits for a response, but will follow their lead, and what they think is best.

AC 13 HP 13/13 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K d20+6=17 ; d20+2=9 ;
Thursday February 10th, 2022 11:06:06 AM
Loryn glances behind him at the pair of big broad shouldered and armored fighters and chuckles a bit at Drack's suggestion. "You can barely get through without anyone else about you. If their waiting, we will deal with it. " He then leans in to whisper to Mole.

"Let's move slow about 10' up to get me around this corner, then we move in together quick. Anything other than ourselves, I'll cast Color Spray at"

After moving slowly up around the corner and getting a look, Loryn will move up 15' and ready to cast at anything that pops up with 15' of him

Stealth 17
Perception 9

Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 15/15 d20+1=12 ;
Thursday February 10th, 2022 12:38:14 PM
Ash falls in line with the others, scanning the tight hallway. Every couple steps he inhales deeply with his nose, seeing if he catches any smells of the bedding or living areas.

Perception 12

Stowe; (Allen D); HP: 24/26; AC: 22/13/19; F: 5; R: 5; W: 1; CMD: 19 d4=2 ; d20+1=13 ; d20+6=26 ;
Thursday February 10th, 2022 12:45:54 PM
Stowe nods and follows as quietly as she can. She listens and watches for any traps in the tunnel.

OOC
-roll stealth (13)
-roll perception (26)
-the d4 was me fumbling my phone

Mole; (RichP) AC 18; HP 18/18; CMD 14 d20+9=12 ;
Thursday February 10th, 2022 7:23:03 PM
Mole glances over his shoulder and nods. He moves up slowly.

(ooc: Mole has 60-ft darkvision)

Perception DC12

Spells:
0 - Flare, Guidance, Light, Stabilize
1 - CLW, Faerie Fire, (c) Shillelagh, (d) Magic Stone

Acid bolt 7/day (1d6+1)
Pearl of Power (used)

Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.): ac13/13/10. hp15/15. d20+1=19 ;
Thursday February 10th, 2022 8:03:00 PM
Mortimer hears the water and is beginning to like this place a lot better. Why hadn't he ever known of this little hideaway. It's a bit cramp in places, yes, but once you enter one of the chambers there is plenty of space. There is a water source to boot! This cave is looking more and more promising. What a place this could be to practice his magic and rituals, away from prying eyes. After seeing how the locals treat Agatha, secrecy is a sound and wise strategy. Let's hope it gets better the deeper they go.

Mortimer continues to scan for magic as they creep along. (Perception: 19)

Manolo (Michael A) -- AC 17/15/12 -- CMD 17 -- HP 13/13 d20+6=24 ;
Thursday February 10th, 2022 8:50:11 PM
Manolo agrees and volunteers to be at the rear.
He takes a odd look at times behind his back to make sure they don't have any surprises

Perception 24

Dude, this is like a totally deep hole! (DM BatMark)
Thursday February 10th, 2022 9:15:59 PM
Ash falls in line and tries to scent new foes.
Mortimer likes the sound of the water, and seems to be scoping the place out as a future lair, all while scanning for magic.
Manolo keeps an eye out for anything sneaking up behind.
Torrynashkabbeth accepts the finger cymbals for later use, and moves lithely through the passage.
Mole moves up slowly, scanning with his darkvision.
Stowe attempts to move forward silently, but finds it hard in all that gear.
Drack wonders whether some beefier types ought to move up front, but accepts suggestions to the contrary.
Loryn counters with the idea to keep the smaller folk up front, then moves up with color spray at the ready.

You emerge into a much larger cavern, with a 30’ high ceiling. To the west, you can see the entrance to a 10’ wide passage, about 10 high. The musical sound of water is coming from that direction. To the southeast, the room slopes down gradually, before narrowing to a 10’x10’ tunnel that slopes down more steeply out of sight. You see no foes in this chamber.

Here is a map.

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 17/17 AC:19/19/15: CMD: 15. F:2; R: 6; W: 5. d20=11 ;
Friday February 11th, 2022 5:37:14 AM
Torryn followed the others in and marvelled at the scene before her. She'd never been in a cave before: at least, nothing like this. The water sounded musical as it echoed off the walls. The walls themselves possessed a strength and imposing certainty of their own. All in all, she thought the place was rather magical. She idly wondered if the gremlins, magical creatures themselves, saw it the same way. The thought of the gremlins brought her senses sharply back into focus. They seemed to take a macabre delight in vicious traps. She herself had experienced that first hand and had no great desire to encounter another such.

[Perception: D20+7: 18 - Seeking traps/lurking gremlins or anomolies.]

Drack (Chris J) - hp 17/18 - AC 16
Friday February 11th, 2022 9:16:41 AM
D waits for a further course of action after they move into the cavern. "Well, what do you think? water or descent? odds are, they are down deeper, but if the water chamber is small, we should probably check it out and clear it."

Mole; (RichP) AC 18; HP 18/18; CMD 14 d20=14 ;
Friday February 11th, 2022 9:17:51 AM
Mole checks out the cavern. "I like this place. Once the gremlins are cleared out, I think I'll claim this place for myself."

He moves to the other side of the cave (represented by his position on the map).

Perception DC23

Spells:
0 - Flare, Guidance, Light, Stabilize
1 - CLW, Faerie Fire, (c) Shillelagh, (d) Magic Stone

Acid bolt 7/day (1d6+1)
Pearl of Power (used)

Stowe; (Allen D); HP: 24/26; AC: 22/13/19; F: 5; R: 5; W: 1; CMD: 19 d20+6=19 ;
Friday February 11th, 2022 10:36:57 AM
Surprised not to find any unpleasant surprises, Stowe walks to the center of the large chamber. "Glad to be out of that passage. i hope there's an easier way out." She shudders slightly.

She gazes around and studies the edges of the cave, I wonder if there are any good cave mushrooms in here... She's drawn to the sound of water, much like the others.

"I agree Drack, let's check out where that running water is. Do we want to set a watch at the entrance to that chamber so nothing sneaks up behind us?"

OOC:
->Perception to look for edible fungi
->Suggesting to set watch at the entrance to the W passage, watching toward the SE passage.

AC 13 HP 13/13 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K
Friday February 11th, 2022 2:15:54 PM
Loryn enters the cavern and relaxes a bit as nothing jumps out and he follows Mole stopping up to his right. "Makes good sense to me as well. We got a bigger tunnel so why don't you bigger folk take the lead at this point."

Loryn will wait for Drack and Stowe to take lead and will drop in behind them

Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 15/15 d20+1=8 ;
Friday February 11th, 2022 5:09:58 PM
Ash still positions himself in the middle of the group whichever way they go. He looks back and forth from the way they came in to the other hallway. the sounds of the water dripping are unerving to him.

Perception 8

Manolo (Michael A) -- AC 17/15/12 -- CMD 17 -- HP 13/13 d20+6=7 ;
Friday February 11th, 2022 9:27:28 PM
Manolo volunteers to keep an eye in case of ambushes or surprises but he is distracted by thinking what they will find ahead.

Perception 7

I think there is something in the water... (DM BatMark) d20+15=17 ; d20+15=20 ;
Friday February 11th, 2022 9:45:59 PM
Ash positions himself in the middle of the group, looking around nervously.
Mortimer finds no magic as he detects around.
Manolo covers in case of an ambush.
Torrynashkabbeth enjoys the music of the water before snapping back to reality to take a sharp look around for threats.
Mole starts to think like Mortimer, that this would be a good lair once cleared.
Stowe is glad to be in a roomier space, and agrees with Drack that checking west is best.
Drack suggests checking the west passage first before heading downward.
Loryn also likes the idea of checking to the west, and falls in behind the larger party members.

As the party rounds the corner to the western passage, they can see their lights reflected off a pool of water in a chamber at the end of the passage. A small rivulet of water runs down the western wall into the pool, creating the musical sound you heard earlier. There might be a flicker of movement in the water, but it is hard to be certain due to the distance, surface ripples, and shadows from your lights. Your watchers detect no threats emerging from the southwest.

Here is a map.

Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.): ac13/13/10. hp15/15. d20+1=4 ;
Friday February 11th, 2022 9:47:38 PM
"Yes, I'm liking this cavern too," he remarks as he looks all around. "I've lived here a little more than two years and never heard one word about this place." Mortimer looks around a bit more, trying to see any evidence of older habitations. "Mole, any part of this cavern, so far, appear to have been dug in, mined and such?"

Then a chilling thought, "With all this room and running water, why were the bum-muppets nesting topside?"

(Perception: 4)

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 17/17 AC:19/19/15: CMD: 15. F:2; R: 6; W: 5. d20=7 ;
Saturday February 12th, 2022 6:27:44 AM
As much as the pool appealed, Torryn decided to go the opposite direction. (S.19)
This she did in an attempt to offset her earlier mistake. If something was to come from behind them whilst they checked the water, she'd at least be able to give warning. If the pool was enchanting, she could take a look afterwards. She considered Mortimer's question as she quietly made her way across the cave.
(Stealth D20+9: 16)
"Perhaps there's only so much mischief you can get up to in a cave." Was her whispered response.

Mole; (RichP) AC 18; HP 18/18; CMD 14 d20+9=17 ; d20+9=15 ;
Sunday February 13th, 2022 10:10:30 AM
Mole catches up with the group. He moves to a position behind Drack and Stowe. "Mort, I didn't know you were part dwarf?" He whispers. "I have been looking for a shrine location to the earth mother." He pauses looking at the walls and ceiling of the cave. "Also, I prefer living underground. The land of the surface dwellers is, well, you can say...very different from what I am accustom to. I just want to recreate a small piece of my home, here." He pauses staring at the floor for a moment. "Anyway, we can continue this when we're done."

"Lass, let Manolo keep watch back there. He'll warn us of anything coming." Mole picks up a rock and imbues is with light. "Toss this down the hall. That should give us some advanced warning. It's not safe to separate too far in the dark." He says to Torryn.

Profession (Miner) DC 17
Perception DC15

Spells:
0 - Flare, Guidance, Light, Stabilize
1 - CLW, Faerie Fire, (c) Shillelagh, (d) Magic Stone

Acid bolt 7/day (1d6+1)
Pearl of Power (used)

Drack (Chris J) - hp 17/18 - AC 16
Monday February 14th, 2022 9:50:08 AM
"Water and people wearing armor don't mix. I'm thinking I'd like to bypass this lake and move towards the other passage. Mortimer might have the right of it. If there wasn't something nasty in here, the gremlins would likely be hanging out by the fresh water supply. Let's go find them and end their threat to the town. if there is something in this water it's not a threat to anyone unless they want to live here."

Drack moves towards the unexplored side tunnel, ready to move in and get this done.

Stowe; (Allen D); HP: 24/26; AC: 22/13/19; F: 5; R: 5; W: 1; CMD: 19 d20+6=8 ; d20+6=23 ;
Monday February 14th, 2022 10:19:01 AM
Stowe doesn't seem to notice as Drack draws back, enraptured by the water. She steps forward and shines her illuminated shield around the room and into the water as she approaches its edge. She crouches down and dips her finger in, smells the water, and touches it to her tongue. Tastes okay. She thinks. She shines the shield into the depths of the pool, trying to guess how deep it is, or if anything lurks beneath the surface.

[i]OOC:
-Roll survival to see if it's safe to drink (8)
-Roll perception for pool (23)

AC 13 HP 13/13 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K d20+6=19 ; d20+2=18 ;
Monday February 14th, 2022 10:46:53 AM
Loryn simply cannot help himself and tip toes over to Stowe. He slides up next to her and declares in a loudish voice "See Anything?!
Stealth 19

He had though of jostling the woman, but he feared his luck and lack of strength would not only send her into the water, but at the perfect spot where it would be some type of deep drop off.

He quickly, well for the over encumbered gnome, makes his way back towards the group to get ready to head down the passage

Taking up a spot just behind Drack and Stowe in the lead, he tries to keep his to oft wandering mind in focus
Perception 18

Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 15/15
Monday February 14th, 2022 4:50:46 PM
Ash looked back and forth at his new friends talking about living in a cave. Ash forgot sometimes, that humans weren't the only creatures in the wold, and that some were home here in a dank, dark, wet cave.

" I feel we are walking into a trap. " he whispers to himself.

Manolo (Michael A) -- AC 17/15/12 -- CMD 17 -- HP 13/13 d20+6=26 ;
Monday February 14th, 2022 6:59:05 PM
Manolo keeps watch.
Not letting any sound or sight take his attention away.

Perception 26 (natural 20)

Yup, there was something in the water... (DM BatMark)
Monday February 14th, 2022 7:55:22 PM
Ash looks back and forth and worries that this is a trap.
Mortimer finds the cavern to his liking as well, and wonders why the gremlins were lurking above instead of down near the water.
Manolo keeps a sharp watch, noticing a slight disturbance in the water beyond where Stowe and Loryn are standing at the water’s edge.
Torrynashkabbeth decides to head quietly towards the southwest, keeping an eye out for anything coming that way.
Mole suggests that Mortimer must be part dwarf to like the cavern so much, and tosses a stone with light down the passage to the west.
Stowe misses that Drack is off in the other direction, and leans down to test the waters.
Drack isn’t keen on drowning in his armor, and so moves toward the southwest tunnel leading down.
Loryn sneaks up by Stowe and asks whether she sees anything. He is about to turn away to follow the others, but…

Stowe and Loryn Highlight to display spoiler: {You can see two tiny odd creatures near the back of the pool, under the water. They are vaguely canine looking, but with outsized lobster claws. Just as you notice them, you are each completely enveloped in a layer of viscous water that writhes around and seems to want to force its way into your bodies. Make a DC10 reflex save to avoid gaining the entangled condition, and let me know what else you are trying to to respond to this threat.}

You all notice that Stowe and Loryn are both covered in a writhing, viscous layer of liquid from head to toe. You may make a DC10 INT check to Highlight to display spoiler: {You recall that early in your adventures, you heard that a few nights earlier, Minerva started screaming while in the kitchen. Those nearby rushed in to see her covered in a viscous liquid that looked like water. She was gasping for air and only recovered after she and those who helped her literally scraped it off of her. Once off of her the liquid puddled like normal water. Although bizarre, it didn’t seem especially noteworthy at the time.}

Here is a map.

Mole; (RichP) AC 18; HP 18/18; CMD 14 d20+1=21 ; d20+1=19 ;
Monday February 14th, 2022 10:08:30 PM
Mole sees Loryn and Stowe covered in a slimy goo. He recognizes it from town. "Get rope, we need to keep them from falling in." He moves over to Loryn and pulls him away from the water.

Int check DC 21, Strength check DC 19

Spells:
0 - Flare, Guidance, Light, Stabilize
1 - CLW, Faerie Fire, (c) Shillelagh, (d) Magic Stone

Acid bolt 7/day (1d6+1)
Pearl of Power (used)

Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.): ac13/13/10. hp15/15. d20=6 ; d20=1 ;
Monday February 14th, 2022 10:38:13 PM
(INT Check: 6, fail.)

[b]"What?!"[/b] Suddenly Mortimer becomes aware of the presence of magical auras. His eyes dart around the underground chamber. "Do you feel that ... magic just happened?!" Then over by the water, he sees Stowe and Loryn covered in some sort of ooze! "Loryn! Stowe!"

Mortimer moves in behind Stowe and attempts to pull her away from the water's edge. However, it becomes painfully clear she's a STURDY woman! (STR Check: 1)

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 17/17 AC:19/19/15: CMD: 15. F:2; R: 6; W: 5. d20=8 ; d20=8 ;
Tuesday February 15th, 2022 5:46:47 AM
Whatever was happening at the pool, it triggered no memories or insights for Torryn. She wanted to help, but was the farthest away from the drama. She had to trust the others. her role was to remain alert. perhaps it was a diversion. Perhaps not a planned one, but the gremmies would seek to take advantage. Her gaze flicked from the consternation near the pool to the passageway before her.

[OOC: First D20+0=Int' check: Failed. Second D20+7 Perception: 15 - watching for Gremlins.]

Drack (Chris J) - hp 17/18 - AC 16 d20+4=19 ;
Tuesday February 15th, 2022 8:07:01 AM
(Not having been with the group for that encounter, Drack will bypass the int roll)

Drack turns at the commotion to see Loryn and Stowe encased in some sort of goo. He moves quickly over to try and yank Stowe back away from it. Being the largest of the two that are stuck, it's likely it will take Dracks Strength to pull her free. On his way he quickly thinks to himself.."They just had to play with the water. Almost like a big red button that says push me."

Drack grabs Stowe, and tries to pull her free.(str check 19)

Stowe; (Allen D); HP: 24/26; AC: 22/13/19; F: 5; R: 5; W: 1; CMD: 19 d20+5=22 ; d20+6=25 ; d8+4=8 ;
Tuesday February 15th, 2022 9:45:06 AM
Stowe stumbles back as the water writhes up to engulf her. Her reaction is swift, if not the most graceful. She no Torryn. She swings to pulverize it with her hammer, though aware as she does that's its a rather silly way to attack a puddle of water.

OOC:
-Reflex Save: 22
-5' step back
-Standard: Attack (25), Damage: 8

Stowe; (Allen D); HP: 24/26; AC: 22/13/19; F: 5; R: 5; W: 1; CMD: 19
Tuesday February 15th, 2022 9:47:13 AM
Stowe shouts, "Get off me you lunks! Save Loryn!"

:D

AC 13 HP 13/13 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K d20+2=16 ;
Tuesday February 15th, 2022 11:05:37 AM
Loryn lets out an 'Eeep' as the viscous fluid splatters and coats him. Loryn tries his best to go with Mole, as the stronger dwarf grabs him to get away from the water. He manages not to get Entangled as his hands go to his face, first and foremost. He certainly does not want that stuff in his eyes or mouth.
Reflex 16

Manolo (Michael A) -- AC 17/15/12 -- CMD 17 -- HP 13/13 d20+2=19 ; d20+6=22 ;
Tuesday February 15th, 2022 7:22:03 PM
Manolo looks at the commotion but decides not to help for now choosing instead to stay where he is in case of an ambush.

'They have plenty of help', he thinks to himself.

Int roll 19
Perception 22

Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 15/15 d20+10=29 ; d20+10=15 ; d20+10=23 ; d20+10=26 ; d20+9=18 ;
Tuesday February 15th, 2022 7:43:08 PM
Ash steps forward and is about to help, but stops, not wanting the fluid on him. This felt like an attack, but he wasn't sure from what type of creature.

Knowledge Nature 29
Knowledge dungeons 15
Knowledge arcane 23
Knowledge planes 26
Knowledge religion 18

Get it off me, get it off! Oh, thanks (DM BatMark)
Tuesday February 15th, 2022 8:38:50 PM

Ash stays back, but Highlight to display spoiler: {from the description he is able to name these critters as fuath gremlins. They have the usual DR/cold iron, magical powers to cause drowning and sleep, and little lobster claws to tear apart their drowned victims.}
Mortimer Highlight to display spoiler: { detects a short bit of magic around Stowe and Loryn, but it fades as they shake off the viscous fluid.} He tries to pull Stowe back, but only succeeds in pulling himself to her.
Manolo sticks with Torryn, watching the other passage.
Torrynashkabbeth stays alert, watching for tricksy gremlins from the other direction.
Mole calls for a rope to keep the splashed party members from falling in and helps Loryn get free..
Stowe manages to stumble back from the viscous water with more effectiveness than grace. She takes a swing but finds no effective target for her hammer, as she calls for the party to save Loryn.
Drack tries to yank Stowe out of the goo as he looks for a red button to unpush.
Loryn stays free of the fluid with Mole’s help.

Stowe and Loryn are free of the goo which splashes to the floor of the cave and looks like regular water now as it trickles back toward the pool of water.

Mortimer Highlight to display spoiler: {detects some new magic in the area.}

Mortimer, Stowe, Loryn, and Mole feel a wave of drowsiness wash over them (Drack is unaffected.) The four drowsy ones please make a DC10 WILL save. Those who fail fall asleep, while those who succeed snap back to full wakefulness.

Here is a map.

Hero Point Addendum (DM BatMark)
Tuesday February 15th, 2022 8:42:44 PM
Mole, Drack, and Mortimer each gain a hero point for coming to the rescue of those in peril. Note that you can only have a maximum of one per level, so if you already have two, you cannot gain this hero point. But you still have the satisfaction of knowing you're one of the good guys :)

Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.): ac13/13/10. hp15/15.
Tuesday February 15th, 2022 8:45:06 PM
"Lunks?!" Mortimer retorts with a slight grimace of his upper lip (I'm calling it Billy Idol Face). "Don't worry, luv! Won't make that mistake again!"

Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.): ac13/13/10. hp15/15. d20+4=17 ; d20+4=10 ; d3=2 ;
Tuesday February 15th, 2022 9:13:32 PM
(Will Save: 17, success!)

"Whoa! Magic just happened again ... those manky, twee bastards!"

Mortimer is able to shake off the spell. However it only succeeds at making him angry. If anyone succumbs to the spell that just hit them, he will attempt to wake them up with a vigorous shake or a slap to the face ... even Stowe. :)

IF no one fell to the spell, Mortimer will send a Ray of Frost to the first gremlin that he sees.

(Mortimer casts Ray of Frost at Gremlin. Range: 30ft. Hit TouchAC: 10. Damage: 2 cold damage.)

Mole; (RichP) AC 18; HP 18/18; CMD 14 d20+7=22 ; d20+2=16 ;
Tuesday February 15th, 2022 10:38:04 PM
(Will save DC22, Dungeoneering DC16)

Mole resists the drowsiness. He continues to pull Loryn back from the liquid.

Spells:
0 - Flare, Guidance, Light, Stabilize
1 - CLW, Faerie Fire, (c) Shillelagh, (d) Magic Stone

Acid bolt 7/day (1d6+1)
Pearl of Power (used)

Stowe; (Allen D); HP: 24/26; AC: 22/13/19; F: 5; R: 5; W: 1; CMD: 19 d20+1=6 ;
Wednesday February 16th, 2022 1:29:26 AM
Stowe frowns in disappointment as her wonderful swing passes harmlessly through the water. Thought that was going to happen.

She looks at the weird dog lobster things across the pool. "I think those lobsters, er, dogs... are..." her jaw cracks with a mighty yawn "controll...." She slumps to the ground fast asleep.

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 17/17 AC:19/19/15: CMD: 15. F:2; R: 6; W: 5.
Wednesday February 16th, 2022 7:20:58 AM
They had saved them! That was a relief. Torryn was relieved that they hadn't had to rely on her; at least not yet. What was it that Stowe had mumbled before falling over? It didn't make any sense to Torryn; so she stayed where she was. No one would thank her if she left the back door wide open for some gremmies to ambush them. Thinking that she quickly turned her attention back down the passageway that lay before her.

Drack (Chris J) - hp 17/18 - AC 16 d20+4=10 ;
Wednesday February 16th, 2022 8:31:54 AM
Drack keeps his grip on Stowe and drags her away from the water, and whatever is in it. (Str check 10 if another is needed.)

"Let's move away from the water folks. No good can come from it, and we are not in a position to fight underwater gremlins in their own element."

Drack looks over his shoulder as he drags Stowe, making sure that someone is watching out behind the group.

AC 13 HP 13/13 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K d20+3=5 ;
Wednesday February 16th, 2022 10:54:28 AM
Loryn takes a few steps back from the liquid and looks to Mole with a realization coming to his eyes, "why those sneaky bas..." Loryn hits the floor

Will 5

That could have gone worse... (DM BatMark)
Wednesday February 16th, 2022 8:47:17 PM
Ash waits to see what happens next.
Mortimer shakes off the sleep spell, and manages to catch Stowe as she slumps into sleep. He shakes her vigorously, arms too full to give her the slap in the face that she might have rated for calling him a lunk.
Manolo also waits for what's next.
Torrynashkabbeth is glad that her friends were saved from drowning in the viscous liquid, but keeps her focus on watching for a flanking ambush from down the tunnel.
Mole resists the urge to sleep, and manages to drag Loryn back from the water’s edge.
Stowe is disappointed that her hammer connects with nothing solid, and starts to point out the lobster dogs before she nods off into Mortimer’s arms.
Drack manages to drag Stowe back from the edge, easing her from Mortimer’s embrace. He warns of trying to fight by the water’s edge.
Loryn takes a few steps back, realizing that the little sneaks have..zzzzzz...it’s nap time in Mole’s grip.

Stowe is shaken awake, and all those near the pool have withdrawn to safer ground. Nothing emerges from the pool to pursue you, and no new magic has appeared since the sleep spell. Those watching the other passage note nothing threatening either. It’s quiet…too quiet. Or maybe that’s just paranoia talking. Hard to tell over Loryn’s snoring.

What’s your next move?

Here is a map.

Manolo (Michael A) -- AC 17/15/12 -- CMD 17 -- HP 13/13 d20+6=21 ;
Wednesday February 16th, 2022 8:49:40 PM
"Do you see anything ?", Manolo asks Torryn, perhaps he sees something Manolo can not see from where he is.

Perception 21

Mole; (RichP) AC 18; HP 18/18; CMD 14
Wednesday February 16th, 2022 11:50:56 PM
Mole lays Loryn down gently on the cave floor. "Wakey, wakey. Time to get up." He says. "Let's leave the water be for now."

Spells:
0 - Flare, Guidance, Light, Stabilize
1 - CLW, Faerie Fire, (c) Shillelagh, (d) Magic Stone

Acid bolt 7/day (1d6+1)
Pearl of Power (used)

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 17/17 AC:19/19/15: CMD: 15. F:2; R: 6; W: 5. d20=12 ;
Thursday February 17th, 2022 5:16:04 AM
"No, Manny, it's all quiet this way: at least, so far." Torryn replied in hushed tones. Partly that was due to caution and partly out of concern for the fallen. She was far from certain what had made them drop so suddenly. However, the imprecation to wake up did imply that it wasn't anything permanent.

She cast her gaze down what she assumed was the way on and opened her Fey Sight [Detect Magic]. the last thing they needed was another surprise.

[Perception D20+7: 19]

Drack (Chris J) - hp 17/18 - AC 16
Thursday February 17th, 2022 8:01:57 AM
V waits until the rest of the group is awake and recovered, and is ready to move out.

"Only one tunnel left to take. Let's finish this."

Stowe; (Allen D); HP: 24/26; AC: 22/13/19; F: 5; R: 5; W: 1; CMD: 19
Thursday February 17th, 2022 9:33:02 AM
Stowe gasps a breath as she startles and wakes. "What was that?"

She looks at Drack and Mort, noticing she's far from the edge of the pool now. "Thanks. Uh, sorry for calling you 'lunks'."

I don't think we're ready to fight whatever that was. She thinks. Her mind is already spinning, trying to think up a plan to remove those gremlins from their pool, or a way to avoid drowning while trying to fight them.

"There were two gremlins that had lobster claws, and I think they controlled the water, made it grab us. We might need to be better prepared to fight them. Did anyone see how deep that pool was?"

Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 15/15
Thursday February 17th, 2022 2:51:13 PM
"Fuath Gremlins they're called.. nasty buggers. Lobster claws for hands. " Ash calls out "They have some nasty magic at their disposal. "

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 17/17 AC:19/19/15: CMD: 15. F:2; R: 6; W: 5.
Thursday February 17th, 2022 5:49:33 PM
Would her Fey Spark hurt them? They were in water and she called upon the power of lightning. Maybe she could force them out of the water and that would make the fight a lot safer for her friends. She wasn't sure: not by any means, but Ashe seemed to know what they were.

"Um, Ashy, my Fey spark is lightning and that sort of goes crazy in water. Do you think it would be enough to force the Foo-affies out of the pool?

Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.): ac13/13/10. hp15/15. d20+1=2 ;
Thursday February 17th, 2022 7:45:31 PM
"Eh, no worries, Stowe. Been called much worse, I have."

He doesn't spend much time with pleasantries, he immediately begins to scrutinize the chamber. His eyes dart all about, including up ... never forget to look up. Maybe he could catch a hint of their magical auras.

"Loryn, you really should wake up," he requests, "we could use your many-colored, rainbow magic!"

Mortimer has 'experienced the rainbow' before, but in the form of a gnome's mushroom.

(Perception: 2, sigh!)

Manolo (Michael A) -- AC 17/15/12 -- CMD 17 -- HP 13/13 d20=3 ;
Thursday February 17th, 2022 9:00:50 PM
Manolo keeps an eye and waits to see what happens on both sides.

Perception 9

Downward spiral continues (DM BatMark)
Thursday February 17th, 2022 9:05:02 PM
Ash puts a name to the gremlins, fuath, and notes their lobster claws and magical powers.
Mortimer looks up and has flashbacks about some gnome shrooms.
Manolo peers into the tunnel and asks what Torryn sees from her vantage.
Torrynashkabbeth reports all quiet on the southeastern front, asks whether her fey spark might shock the gremlins out of the water, and starts to scan with her fey sight. Highlight to display spoiler: {Torryn detects no new auras this round.}
Mole wakes up Loryn gently and (again) suggests leaving the water alone. He even manages not to say “I told you so.”
Stowe wakes up with a gasp, and apologizes to the lunks. She describes the gremlins in the water and recalls that the water was 10-15 feet deep with an uneven bottom surface where she could see from the shore..
Drack waits on folks to wake up, then is ready to take on the tunnel.
Loryn is awake but apparently too groggy to proceed.

In answer to Torryn’s query, the assembled wisdom of the casters in the party is that magical lightning tends to behave against targets in the water exactly how it does on dry land. So in this case, the fey spark is unlikely to force any remaining gremlins out of the water. Speaking of which, none have emerged from the water, nor do you detect any disturbances in the water aside from the ripples of the water flowing into the pool from the far wall. Given that water is flowing in, but the cavern is not filling up, it is logical to assume that one or more exits must exist beneath the water’s surface.

The other tunnel beckons, if you dare…

Here is a map.

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 17/17 AC:19/19/15: CMD: 15. F:2; R: 6; W: 5.
Friday February 18th, 2022 4:33:28 AM
Torryn quietly waited for the rest to gather. The way on seemed clear and she presumed that all would wish to follow the same order of progress that had brought them this far. She'd have been willing to try to oust the foo-affies, but if they were completely aquatic, they wouldn't be a threat whilst they cleared the cave system of the more mobile gremmies: the ones tat could surprise them with sneaky attacks and sneakier magic.

"All clear so far as I can tell" She reported.

Mole; (RichP) AC 18; HP 18/18; CMD 14 d20+9=14 ;
Friday February 18th, 2022 7:54:52 AM
"Water gremlins? I don't think I have any spells that will be helpful." He thinks about it while the sleepy folks wake. "Spears and bows or maybe nets to deal with them. But for now, I'm not sure what we can do."

Perception DC14

Spells:
0 - Flare, Guidance, Light, Stabilize
1 - CLW, Faerie Fire, (c) Shillelagh, (d) Magic Stone

Acid bolt 7/day (1d6+1)
Pearl of Power (used)

Manolo (Michael A) -- AC 17/15/12 -- CMD 17 -- HP 13/13
Friday February 18th, 2022 9:59:03 AM
"well as long as they stay in water we are fine"
"Should we move on ?" Manolo asks everybody, hoping that they will start moving soon.

Drack (Chris J) - hp 17/18 - AC 16
Friday February 18th, 2022 10:10:23 AM
"Yeah Manolo. Let's get this done with, at least as far as the land based gremlins go. Loryn, you want Stowe and I up front, or you want to adjust the walking order in case of traps?"

AC 13 HP 13/13 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K
Friday February 18th, 2022 10:25:26 AM
Loryn sits up with a sour look on his face. such a simple rouse and simple spell and he succumbed to it. It did not sit well with him. Getting to his feet, "Now we have water gremlins? And as we are not all swimming about here, there is a outlet from those things to leave while staying in the water. Once we are done with our land adventures, we should look to see where this may spill out. That would tell us where they can come out to cause trouble."

"For now, I say lead on Stowe and Drack." Loryn picks his torch back up. "You know what, good point. Manolo, grab a spot there in front and make sure they don' step in anything."

Stowe; (Allen D); HP: 24/26; AC: 22/13/19; F: 5; R: 5; W: 1; CMD: 19
Friday February 18th, 2022 1:14:17 PM
Stowe rouses herself fully and moves up toward the front to get behind Manolo. She glances back at the pool apprehensively, hating to leave enemies at their backs.

She readies her shield and hammer and is ready to continue down the cave passage.

Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 15/15
Friday February 18th, 2022 5:07:44 PM
Ash nods to Mole. "Yes. Magic is getting depleted. Perhaps put a pin in this spot for later and check the other hallway? "

Down, in the ground, to get out of the rain (DM BatMark) d20+17=35 ;
Friday February 18th, 2022 9:32:34 PM
Manolo wants to move on while the gremlins seem to be staying in the water.
Torrynashkabbeth takes her place in the marching order as she waits on the others to form up, noting that the way is all clear.
Mole doesn’t see good options for dealing with water gremlins at the moment.
Stowe joins the front ranks, and steels herself for whatever comes next.
Drack agrees with Manolo and others that it is time to move on. He asks Chief Strategy Officer Loryn whether it is best to have the beefy folks up front, or some search types.
Loryn is grumpyfied by falling for the sleep ruse. In answer to Drack’s query, he suggests that Stowe and Drack lead on, with Manolo also up there to look for tricksy bits.
Ash agrees with Mole that magic is running low, and that it would be best to check the other hallway.
Mortimer offers no opinion regarding the way ahead.

The party forms up and begins to move out cautiously down the southeast passage. It has natural steps that descend as the tunnel goes on, even as it begins to loop south, then back to the west. The tunnel narrows again as it turns to the west, and medium-sized members of the party will have to squeeze through the next section. It seems like it may widen out beyond that, but you can’t yet see into that space. You have not found any more traps, nor have any more gremlins yet popped out of the shadows to ambush you. What lies ahead? What precautions do you take or preparations do you make?

Here is a map.

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 17/17 AC:19/19/15: CMD: 15. F:2; R: 6; W: 5. d20=14 ;
Saturday February 19th, 2022 5:01:32 AM
Torryn found herself near the back of the group. With Mole right behind her she felt confident that they could handle anything that approached from the rear. With regard to what lay ahead, there really wasn't much she could do; not least because of the cramped conditions and number of people between her and that front. She could still summon a Fey Shield if it came to a fight. In the meantime her magical wards held. (Mage Armour is still in place). As a precaution she again opened her Fey Sight to see if there was something magical in the vicinity. (Detect Magic).
Torryn scanned the immediate area for anything untoward.

[Perception d20+7: 21]

Mole; (RichP) AC 18; HP 18/18; CMD 14 d20+9=29 ;
Saturday February 19th, 2022 4:16:45 PM
Mole keeps his position within the march. He keeps an eye towards the rear in case something approaches the group from the darkness.

Perception DC29

Spells:
0 - Flare, Guidance, Light, Stabilize
1 - CLW, Faerie Fire, (c) Shillelagh, (d) Magic Stone

Acid bolt 7/day (1d6+1)
Pearl of Power (used)

Stowe; (Allen D); HP: 24/26; AC: 22/13/19; F: 5; R: 5; W: 1; CMD: 19
Monday February 21st, 2022 8:04:41 AM
Move tight spaces. Great. Stowe yearns for the open skies above, or an airy forest glade. She waits for someone who can see better in the dark to lead the way through the crack, unless the others would prefer she go first? She's happy to go second, or even third...

Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 15/15
Monday February 21st, 2022 9:16:39 AM
Ash sighs a little bit at the tight spaces ahead. He positions himself in the middle of the sandwich, probably the most protected spot.

"Mole? Is there anything you can tell about this passage? Are we descending, or anything out of the ordinary?"

Spells:
0-Level
Read Magic, Detect Magic. Daze, Light(x)
1st
Magic missle(x) , enlarge person, sleep9x0, hold portal

Drack (Chris J) - hp 17/18 - AC 16
Monday February 21st, 2022 12:28:42 PM
Drack follows close behind Manolo, with Stowe Behind him with sword out and ready.

"Manolo, if they are waiting for us at the opening, either move inside and to the side or squeeze behind Stowe and I if you can. Last thing we can afford to do is create a one of us against several of them scenario."

"Stowe, you and I need to to step into the chamber and step to the sides so that the others aren't trapped behind us."

Drack says a quick prayer to Domi, and mentally prepares himself for whatever may come.

AC 13 HP 13/13 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K
Monday February 21st, 2022 2:54:07 PM
Why do dwarves find this fun? he thinks to himself as the passage narrows again. Loryn hears Drack and his plan to squeeze in first and shrugs. Hey, he's excited to hit things and who was Loryn to stand in the way

"Go get guys." he says quietly

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 17/17 AC:19/19/15: CMD: 15. F:2; R: 6; W: 5.
Monday February 21st, 2022 5:49:25 PM
Torryn was ready to step through into the middle and again command the attention of the gremlins - once her Fey shield was in place. It wouldn't last long, so she could only cast it once the fighting started, but then it would last long enough that she could usefully help. Given how hard it had proven to actually hit the gremlins, the best she could hope for was to provide bait - a seemingly easily struck, unarmoured victim. That was her plan, anyway. There was some squeezing to be done first and attention retained to her surroundings. In truth, the 'squeeze' really wasn't going to be an issue for her. No armour and she was small: she didn't envisage a problem

Manolo (Michael A) -- AC 17/15/12 -- CMD 17 -- HP 13/13
Monday February 21st, 2022 6:46:42 PM
Manolo does as Drack says and move inside to squeeze between Drack and Stowe.

Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.): ac13/13/10. hp15/15.
Monday February 21st, 2022 7:20:47 PM
Mortimer maintains his central location in the group. He's perfectly fine having several meat shields between him in both directions. If his Detect Magic spell ceases to function, he will recast it.

(Mortimer casts Detect Magic. Range: 60'ft. Duration: Concentration, up to 2 minutes.)

His stomach begins to grumble. Mortimer wonders if gremlin meat would've made a decent snack. He shrugs, 'how bad could it have been; he's eaten much worse.' Should have thought about that before leaving it all behind in the upper chamber.

Sure is dark in here... (DM BatMark) d20+3=4 ; d20+3=22 ; d20+3=13 ; d20+3=17 ;
Monday February 21st, 2022 8:41:22 PM
Ash positions himself in the middle of the party and asks Mole for insights regarding the passage.
Mortimer continues to scan with detect magic and regrets leaving all that gremlin meat behind.
Torrynashkabbeth scans ahead with her fey site, but finds the angles difficult and detects nothing new. She is willing to act as bait, with her fey shield in place.
Mole keeps a watch out for skulkers to the party’s rear, but sees none.
Stowe waits to see who best should go first, but is willing as always.
Drack follows Manolo closely, and offers some sound tactical advice.
Manolo moves in as suggested by Drack.
Loryn quietly signals the more aggressive folks to go get stuck in.

The passage opens up into a large cavern, with the ceiling dimly visible about 40’ up. It is about 60’ wide, and runs west into darkness beyond the range of your lights and darkvision. The cavern is quite rough, with rubble, boulders, rocky outcrops and the like, although you can move through it without being slowed (not difficult terrain.)

Just as the vanguard of the party emerges into the cavern, you hear the twang of bows and a number of arrows fly out of the darkness to the west. One skids along the floor, stopping harmlessly in front of Drack. Manolo deftly dodges one arrow, but another strikes him for a mere 1hp of damage. The last arrows clangs off of Stowe’s shield. You can also hear some guttural speech in the same direction that the arrows came from, but nothing else emerges from the darkness when the speech stops.

Can our heroes be a beacon of light in this darkness, or will they succumb to their fell attackers?

Here is a map.

Mole; (RichP) AC 18; HP 18/18; CMD 14
Monday February 21st, 2022 11:43:03 PM
Mole waits until the group in front moves into the room. As soon as there is space, he move up into the room.

Spells:
0 - Flare, Guidance, Light, Stabilize
1 - CLW, Faerie Fire, (c) Shillelagh, (d) Magic Stone

Acid bolt 7/day (1d6+1)
Pearl of Power (used)

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 17/17 AC:19/19/15: CMD: 15. F:2; R: 6; W: 5.
Tuesday February 22nd, 2022 5:16:16 AM
Torryn heard and even managed to see a little of what was happening up ahead. She was thankful for her 'fey sight' (low light vision). However, at this stage there was precious little she could do, but in a fight things rapidly shifted. She resolved to use her position to fullest advantage and invoke her Fey Shield.

"Let me through. I'll draw their fire so that you can all advance safely."

Her plan was simple enough; move directly forward, spear in hand and appearing as dangerous as possible. With her magical protections, grace and instincts to protect she was hopeful of NOT being hit.

OOC: She'll invoke the spell just before breaching the threshold of the cavern - provided she is permitted to enact this plan. With all her protections in place she'll become AC 23. Her intent is to move directly towards the enemy drawing as much fire as possible. This will permit others to advance (bringing light with them and thus enabling the spellcastets to utilise their magic to fullest effect. It's impulsive, little Torryn though and she doersn't actually bother articulating any of that in detail. )

Drack (Chris J) - hp 17/18 - AC 16
Tuesday February 22nd, 2022 9:12:48 AM
"Yeah, I don't think so Torry. You aren't going alone. the more front end targets we present, the fewer arrows we deal with, and my arrows are useless against them. I'll be leading the way with you. I don't think think that they can see us very well either, they are shooting at our lighted silhouettes."

"I'm moving in, I need some lights to come behind momentarily guys. Stowe? You Coming? it's a nice open space."

with sword in hand, Drack will take a double move straight west, hoping everyone else follows suit.

Stowe; (Allen D); HP: 24/26; AC: 22/13/19; F: 5; R: 5; W: 1; CMD: 19
Tuesday February 22nd, 2022 10:55:14 AM
Stowe raises her eyebrows as Drack takes off running across the cave in his light mail shirt. He's a brave one. she thinks. Torryn and Drack far outpace her as she tries to keep up. There's no way I can get between him and the archers. I can't believe I'm this slow...

She brandishes her hammer and heater shield as she charges across the rough cave floor, the light streaming from her shield jostling and jumping around as she runs.

OOC:
-Double move (40')
-If Drack's and Torryn's speeds are 30' you're 20' ahead of Stowe. I'm trying to spread out slightly as we go to give room for ranged attacks without soft cover from behind. But no so much that we're easily flanked.

Drack (Chris J) - hp 17/18 - AC 16
Tuesday February 22nd, 2022 4:12:20 PM
(Correction)
Drack does not want to get too far ahead, and will move in tandem with Stowe, so as to space out a bit to make the gremlins choose targets, while not putting himself way out in front. He moves to I27 with sword in hand.

Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 15/15
Tuesday February 22nd, 2022 4:38:04 PM
Ash follows one of the armored tanks running to the attackers. Not that he could do much, but he figured it was the safest place to be.

AC 13 HP 13/13 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K
Tuesday February 22nd, 2022 6:58:09 PM
Loryn moves into the cavern with his torch coming up 10’ behind Ash

Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.): ac13/13/10. hp15/15. d20+1=6 ;
Tuesday February 22nd, 2022 8:21:54 PM
Mortimer moves into the large, open chamber with the rest (Double move to K31).

His eyes dart all around, not just looking where they want you to look. He glances at the south wall, the ceiling above. Mortimer is primed and ready to murder these bum-muppets ... HARD!

(Perception: 6, ehh.)

Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.): ac13/13/10. hp15/15.
Tuesday February 22nd, 2022 8:24:53 PM
(Forgot to mention)

He holds his lantern toward the southern wall, where the light is dim.

(He lit his lantern outside the entrance of the cave.)

Manolo (Michael A) -- AC 17/15/12 -- CMD 17 -- HP 13/13 d20+9=11 ;
Tuesday February 22nd, 2022 8:41:44 PM
Manolo tries to find a place and a way to stay stealthy and less noticeably but the sight and feeling of small drops of blood pouring however slowly makes him confused.

Stealth 11
Manolo moves forward as much as possible.

No wait, NOW it is dark in here... (DM BatMark) d20+3=4 ; d20+3=11 ; d20+3=11 ; d20+3=12 ; d20+10=24 ; 2d8+4=6 ; d20+12=15
Tuesday February 22nd, 2022 9:10:00 PM
Mortimer moves into the room, shining his lantern to the south while looking all about.
Manolo tries to stealth forward, but knows from his experience that doing so while under direct observation would be impossible.
Torrynashkabbeth rashly asks to be let through to draw attacks with her magical protections up.
Mole waits for space and moves into the room.
Drack is not too keen on Torryn drawing fire alone, and moves up himself while calling for Stowe to join in, matching strides with her.
Stowe moves up with the others, at her own pace, shield shining brightly.
Ash follows the armored folks into battle, hoping for some cover from them.
Loryn moves in with his torch and takes a position behind Ash.

Oddly, you notice that the lights from the front rank do not seem to push back the darkness at the west end of the cavern as you end your movement. The darkness then moves forward silently, washing over Torryn, Stowe, Drack, and Ash. It does them no physical harm, but they are effectively blinded* by the darkness. Those of you who previously cast detect magic are now aware of new auras nearby, although you cannot pinpoint them yet. Mole Highlight to display spoiler: {You can see through the darkness with your darkvision. There is a small creature wielding a blade in H30, winding up to strike Torryn or Stowe. There are four other creatures, slightly different in appearance, about halfway back through the darkness, each with a small bow.}

From inside the darkness, you hear the twang of bows again. One arrow clangs into the ceiling, in another astounding display of incompetence by your foe. Two land with thumps in Ash’s flesh, but only do 2hp of damage total. The last bounces off of Stowe’s shield again, validating her choice of gear! You hear a resounding slap within the darkness. Stowe Highlight to display spoiler: {You are hit by a foe in the darkness. Make a DC14 WILL save. If you save, take 3hp of damage as you feel some of your life force drained out. If you fail, take 6 hp of damage. The gods must be smiling on you, as you took minimum damage from what could have been a nasty spell! The creature that struck you was located in H30, although of course it may move later.}

*Blinded: The creature cannot see. It takes a –2 penalty to Armor Class, loses its Dexterity bonus to AC (if any), and takes a –4 penalty on most Strength- and Dexterity-based skill checks and on opposed Perception skill checks. All checks and activities that rely on vision (such as reading and Perception checks based on sight) automatically fail. All opponents are considered to have total concealment (50% miss chance) against the blinded character. Blind creatures must make a DC 10 Acrobatics skill check to move faster than half speed. Creatures that fail this check fall prone. Characters who remain blinded for a long time grow accustomed to these drawbacks and can overcome some of them.

Here is a map.

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 17/17 AC:19/19/15: CMD: 15. F:2; R: 6; W: 5. d20=16 ;
Wednesday February 23rd, 2022 3:39:52 AM
The terrible archery was fully explained. It was likely that the shooters saw as little as she did, or so Torryn assumed. That then worked to her advantage too. If she could get close enough, the creatures wouldn't be able to dodge so effectively. Luckily she had her Fey Shield up.

Torryn slowed. Now was the time for stealth. She listened for the nearest 'twangs' and moved in that direction; unhurriedly and bending to keeping low and so present a smaller target. Her plan was a simple one: get in close and stab one.

[OOC: Stealth, D20+9: 25.
Torryn's AC is unaltered: She loses her Dex bonus but the Shield Bonus replaces it (Unless something shoots her in the back!)
She's now used all but one of her 1st level spells.
She has 4 x Fey Sparks remaining.]

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 17/17 AC:19/19/15: CMD: 15. F:2; R: 6; W: 5. d20=11 ;
Wednesday February 23rd, 2022 3:43:28 AM
[OOC: Having belatedly read the "Fighting in Darkness" guidance I append a Perception check for Torryn, to locate an enemy /twang.

Perception: 11+7: 18]

No wait, NOW it is dark in here... (DM BatMark)
Wednesday February 23rd, 2022 6:01:03 AM
Torryn Highlight to display spoiler: {You realize that there is a creature in H30 and that is where the slapping noise came from. You may make an attack into that square this round, if you like, still rolling the 50% miss chance.}

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 17/17 AC:19/19/15: CMD: 15. F:2; R: 6; W: 5. d100=41 ; d20=10 ;
Wednesday February 23rd, 2022 6:38:27 AM
There was definitely something there! Torryn lashed out with her spear - unerringly stabbing a loose rock in front of her!

[OOC: Assuming high is always good in D&D. Ergo, 41 is a miss. The 10 means she only just hit the floor :) But it won't deter Torryn.]

She made no extra noise - other than her cold iron wrought spear tip hitting the ground. Listening was important. that task would get harder as others became engaged in seeking opponents.

Stowe; (Allen D); HP: 18/26; AC: 22/13/19; F: 5; R: 5; W: 1; CMD: 19 d20+1=5 ; d20+6=14 ; d100=30 ;
Wednesday February 23rd, 2022 7:42:58 AM
Some foul magic hit Stowe. She grunted in pain, but she knew she had heard something mutter a spell just in front of her. She calls out, "there's one right here!" going to guide ther others toward it.

She swing the hammer blindly, but misses.

OOC:
Will save = 5 :-/
Attack = 14
But
Miss = 30 :(

AC 13 HP 13/13 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K d20+9=11 ;
Wednesday February 23rd, 2022 8:28:33 AM
The gnome scrunches his face. He was not going to be able to help with this, he couldn’t even think of the spell to counter the dark. Loryn backs up 5’ and readies. If the darkness encompasses him, he casts Color Spray

Drack (Chris J) - hp 17/18 - AC 16 d20+8=28 ;
Wednesday February 23rd, 2022 8:51:03 AM
Extremely frustrated by the lack of vision, Drack tries to make sense of his best option. Hearing Torry say that there is one right here, is great, but since he doesn't know where she is, he doesn't know where to go. It seems like his best move at the moment is to stand still and listen carefully to all that is occuring around him until he picks out an opponents location, or hears one approaching him. (natural 20=28)

Drack (Chris J) - hp 17/18 - AC 16
Wednesday February 23rd, 2022 8:51:41 AM
(the 28 was perception)

Mole; (RichP) AC 18; HP 18/18; CMD 14 d20+2=7 ; d20+2=19 ;
Wednesday February 23rd, 2022 10:30:33 AM
"Teine faerie." Says Mole as he holds out his hand towards the darkness. A splash of gold dust occurs in the darkness just in front of Torryn, but does not cover her (just keeping her out of the radius). A creature in the darkness is now covered with tiny flecks of golden colored light, illuminating it in the darkness.

"Torryn, defensive NOW!" Shouts Mole. "Front line form ranks, archers, shields up. Mages we need light as far back as you can get it."

Cast Faerie Fire just behind creature with blade, SR7 (use hero point SR19)

Spells:
0 - Flare, Guidance, Light, Stabilize
1 - CLW, (c) Faerie Fire, (c) Shillelagh, (d) Magic Stone

Acid bolt 7/day (1d6+1)
Pearl of Power (used)

Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 13/15
Wednesday February 23rd, 2022 5:36:42 PM
"Drats" Ash says to himself as his skin is pierced. H egoes to step away, but quickly realizes he is in a darkness spell of some sort. And might walk right into a hole. " Double drats" he adds. If only he didn't cast his light spell before. " Triple Drats... enough for the day. "

Ash backs up, trying to step where he has stepped before and back out of the darkness.
Spells:
0-Level
Read Magic, Detect Magic. Daze, Light(x)
1st
Magic missle(x) , enlarge person, sleep(x), hold portal

Manolo (Michael A) -- AC 17/15/12 -- CMD 17 -- HP 13/13 d20=7 ;
Wednesday February 23rd, 2022 7:56:56 PM
Manolo assess the situation and moves near the rocks (L25).
He then shouts loudly to divert the enemy attention to him "Over here you dimwits, Can't hit me!"

d20=7 (not sure which skill).

Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.): ac13/13/10. hp15/15. d20+1=4 ;
Wednesday February 23rd, 2022 8:21:58 PM
Mortimer goes total defense until he begins to see gremlins lit up by Mole's Faerie Sparkle spell or when he can make out the locations of their magical auras. Until then, he imagines all the possible ways to kill a bum-muppet.

(Mortimer's Total Defense AC: 17. Perception: 4, ack!)

Where did he/she/it go? (DM BatMark) d20+12=25 ; d20+17=22 ; d20+10=28 ; d3-1=1 ; d6=1 ; d6=1 ; d6=1 ; d20+5=8 ; d20+5=6 ; d20+5=13 ; d20+5=21 ;
Wednesday February 23rd, 2022 8:27:18 PM
Ash mutters as he is pierced by an arrow. He backs up out of the darkness.
Mortimer goes on total defense and waits for an opportunity.
Manolo moves to the north and tries to attract the enemy’s attention with a bluff, apparently unsuccessfully for now.
Torrynashkabbeth lashes out with her spear at whatever had moved between her and Stowe, but completely misses the target in the dark.
Mole calls out tactical advice and tries to cast a faerie fire in the area where the creature that hit Stowe is.
Stowe grunts in pain as the foul magic steals her life force, but is unable to return the favor to her unseen foe.
Drack listens carefully and can tell that there is a creature near Stowe and Torryn, as well as several more in a north-south line about 20 feet west of Torryn. At least some of the latter sound like they are nocking arrows in their bows again.
Loryn backs up and readies a color spray if the darkness advances.

Mole’s faerie fire seems to have no discernable effect in the darkness, which does not advance. Anyone with knowledge arcana or spellcraft may make a DC 15 check and if successful Highlight to display spoiler: {You know that natural light and lower level spells will not overcome a higher level darkness spell, so the darkness is probably caused by a 2nd level or higher spell effect.}

Mole Highlight to display spoiler: {You can see that the creature that hit Stowe has moved to G28 and is preparing to attack Torryn with its blade. The other four have advanced in a north-south line in row F, F26,28,30 & 32.}

Torryn is struck by a blade from the west. It was perfectly positioned to puncture her femoral artery, but did not penetrate deeply enough to do serious harm. She takes 3hp of damage.

Four more arrows fly out of the darkness, but only one strikes home, wounding Stowe for 1hp of damage.

Any party member in row J or further west must roll twice on any d20 roll this round, and use the lower result.

Here is a map.

Drack (Chris J) - hp 17/18 - AC 16
Wednesday February 23rd, 2022 9:49:44 PM
(Thursday post early to preempt)

“Boys and girls, I hate to say say it, but I think that it’s time for a retreat. In this darkness, we are gonna do a lot more receiving than giving. This battlefield is theirs. Let’s re-focus and return.”

Drack will start retreating as long as everyone goes with his thoughts. If anyone ignores it or protests, and stays, Drack will move towards them.

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 14/17 AC:19/19/15: CMD: 15. F:2; R: 6; W: 5.
Thursday February 24th, 2022 5:18:04 AM
Torryn let out an involuntary hiss at the stinging pain of the arrow. That hadn't been part of the plan at all! her Fey magic was supposed to protect her. Clearly, these nasty creatures hadn't been informed of that salient fact.

She heard Drack's shouted imprecations. Ordinarily, she'd have struggled to head them; being so headstrong and impulsive, but here she was, unable to see, unable to hit anything (except the ground) and getting peppered by arrows! Even she could see the sense in a tactical withdrawal.

"Falling back!" She confirmed. "Well, not literally, I hope." She muttered under her breath.

Mole; (RichP) AC 18; HP 18/18; CMD 14 d20+3=12 ; d6+1=3 ;
Thursday February 24th, 2022 3:51:13 PM
"Giving cover." says Mole. "[/i]Searbhag[/i]" he says sending a ray of greenish liquid at the gremlin straight in front of him.

After unleashing his spell he moves back.

Acid ray Touch attack DC12, damage 3

Spells:
0 - Flare, Guidance, Light, Stabilize
1 - CLW, (c) Faerie Fire, (c) Shillelagh, (d) Magic Stone

Acid bolt 7/day (1d6+1), used 1
Pearl of Power (used)

Stowe; (Allen D); HP: 18/26; AC: 22/13/19; F: 5; R: 5; W: 1; CMD: 19
Thursday February 24th, 2022 5:49:02 PM
"Come and get me you knaves!" Stowe shouts as she withdraws 10 feet, backing out into the light. She raises her shield and sword, waiting for any attack.

OOC:
-Move: 10' out of the darkness, restores dex to AC
-Standard: total defense, +4 to AC (total =26/17/19)

Manolo (Michael A) -- AC 17/15/12 -- CMD 17 -- HP 13/13 d20+6=24 ;
Thursday February 24th, 2022 5:59:52 PM
Manolo moves back a head of the group (Q25) and takes a closer look at the unseen able

perception 24

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 14/17 AC:19/19/15: CMD: 15. F:2; R: 6; W: 5.
Thursday February 24th, 2022 6:26:09 PM
Torryn will try to use Stowe's voice as a guide and retreat until she too can see (K30 seems the most likely spot). Once she can see, she can react fully to incoming attacks. Her AC will again become 23. (Unadjusted at present as I will presume any success.)

Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 13/15
Thursday February 24th, 2022 6:49:45 PM
"Anyone want to be bigger? Maybe a large armored target to take the sting. Let us simple people move around the darkness and pinch the attack?"

Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.): ac13/13/10. hp15/15.
Thursday February 24th, 2022 7:53:27 PM
Mortimer can't help but notice Mole giving directions and slinging spells into the darkness.

"Mole, can you see them?!"

Not taking his eyes off the darkness, and any stray arrow that may come his way (Total Defense), he replies to Ash's call for an enlargement spell, "If Mole can see them, then a giant-sized Mole (8ft tall, 1300 pound Mole) can put the stomp to those tiny bastards! Or at least scare them out of the darkness."

Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.): ac13/13/10. hp15/15.
Thursday February 24th, 2022 7:54:20 PM
(Mortimer's Total Defense AC: 17)

The darkness is alive! Well, not really, but it did move... (DM BatMark) d20+12=23 ; d20+1=21 ; d20+4=6 ; d20+4=20 ; d20+10=21 ; d3-1=0 ; d6=4 ; d6=3 ; d20+5=22 ; d20+5=8 ; d20+3=7 ;
Thursday February 24th, 2022 9:25:10 PM
Ash offers to make a party member larger with magic.
Mortimer asks whether Mole can see the enemy, and suggests that he be the one to get embiggened.
Manolo moves back and takes a closer look around. He can hear a creature near where Torryn was hit, somewhere around H29.
Torrynashkabbeth follows Stowe’s voice in retreat.
Mole sends a ray of acid into the darkness, badly burning a gremlin that yelps in pain. He then moves back.
Stowe shouts as she withdraws, challenging her foes to come after her.
Drack signals a retreat.
Loryn still has a readied color spray.

As you retreat, the darkness advances. Loryn’s readied color spray disappears into the darkness and you hear a small thump as if a tiny body had slumped to the floor. Mole Highlight to display spoiler: {You can see that the creature with the blade and two little gremlins all advanced, and the color spray covered the blade wielder and two gremlins, but only one of the latter fell down unconscious in J28. The other two foes seem unaffected. The blade wielder is positioned in K29 to attack Torryn again. One gremlin is positioned to attack Stowe from K30. The remaining two gremlins remained behind to shoot bows again.}

Torryn feels the cold bite of steel again, this time for 7hp of damage. Torryn Highlight to display spoiler: { you know that the creature that struck you is in K29.}

Stowe Highlight to display spoiler: {you hear the swish of a blade and know that you are being attacked from K30.}

Two arrows whistle through the darkness, with one striking Drack for 1hp of damage.

It seems like it will be hard to outrun these foes, and the darkness is moving with them. Your further retreat is hampered by the narrowness of the tunnel to the east. What’s your next move, heroes?

(OOC: Don’t forget hero points. Spend them like your life depends on it, you’ll probably get more if you survive long enough!)

Here is a map.

Drack (Chris J) - hp 17/18 - AC 16
Thursday February 24th, 2022 9:58:45 PM
“Mole if you are the only one that can see, you need to direct us. Where to move, and where to swing. You have to run the battle as our eyes. “

“Do any of you spell casters have a dark vision spell?”

“Stowe, let’s form up side by side with everyone behind us. Tory, fall back and drink a potion. If mole calls out the targets near us, stowe and I can deal with them. Any useful spells from the spellcasters would be great”

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 7/17 AC:19/19/15: CMD: 15. F:2; R: 6; W: 5. d20=4 ; d100=43 ;
Friday February 25th, 2022 3:56:01 AM
"Ah!" Squeaked Torryn as she was struck again. This wasn't working. She needed to remember all of Agratha's wise words, but in the heat of battle, nothing came to mind. So she fought. It was no less than any dancer would do. You performed no matter the pain. If she was going to drop, she was going down swinging.
Torryn thrust her spear at where she felt the enemy was. She was sure it was there, even shrouded in darkness.

[OOC: NB- Torryn has 2 Hero Points. She will use one here. Sadly, I determined that before the awful rolls materialised, but hey-ho.
4 To hit Misses anyway with 50% miss chance. Hero point used. I would have used BOTH if such was permitted, but I doubt that is.)

Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 13/15
Friday February 25th, 2022 8:46:39 AM
Ash knows Mole was to his right, he steps back alongside his friend. " you're up Mole" . He pulls some powdered iron from a pocket, mutters some words and exclaims Enlarge...
Cast Enlarge Person on Mole

Drack (Chris J) - hp 17/18 - AC 16
Friday February 25th, 2022 9:07:29 AM
Drack moves towards Torry and Stowe's position, as they seem to have encountered targets, and he has not.

Stowe; (Allen D); HP: 18/26; AC: 22/13/19; F: 5; R: 5; W: 1; CMD: 19 d100=34 ;
Friday February 25th, 2022 10:45:40 AM
"There's one right here! Stowe shouts again. She trashes a careful swing, but can't hit anything. Not knowing what else to do, she yells in anger and runs forward into the dark. "Foul bum munchers! You'll never take me! "

ooc:
-seems unrealistic to give info beyond 'adjacent to me', but K30, someone hit it!
-Attack defensively (+2 dodge AC), not that it matters since you lose dodge bonuses in the dark...
-move to G31
-Question: is the light on Stowe's shield dispelled, or just temporarily overwhelmed/surpresssed by the darkness?

Mole; (RichP) AC 18; HP 18/18; CMD 14 d20+2=20 ; 2d6+2=6 ;
Friday February 25th, 2022 11:14:03 AM
"Torry it's right in front of you." He says as he moves up to L30. With his enlarged state, he swings at the gremlin in front of Torry with his warhammer. "There's one in front of me and Torry. Loryn your spell got two of them, but there are at least two more."

Attack (enlarged): AC20, damage 6 (ugh!)

Spell effects: Enlarge (Ash)

Spells:
0 - Flare, Guidance, Light, Stabilize
1 - CLW, (c) Faerie Fire, (c) Shillelagh, (d) Magic Stone

Acid bolt 7/day (1d6+1), used 1
Pearl of Power (used)

Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.): ac13/13/10. hp15/15. d20+1=12 ; d20+8=15 ; d100=38 ; d4=3 ;
Friday February 25th, 2022 7:57:04 PM
"Darkvision ... they make spell for that? I definitely need to get one!"

Mortimer is in the dark now. He lets his other senses take over. He knows Mole is beside him. He can most certainly hear his directions and smell his dwarven musk. That loud crash against the floor was that giant warhammer of his (Perception: 12). By the sound of it, he needs to step closer if he will have any chance of making a strike. He cautiously takes a 5ft step to K30 while drawing his cold iron dagger. He prepares to attack the spot where he heard Mole's hammer fall.

(Hero Point Bonus +8 to attack: HitAC: 19 (forgot to include his normal +4 in the die roller) 50%Miss Chance: 38, success! Damage: 3 points of cold iron damage.)

Manolo (Michael A) -- AC 17/15/12 -- CMD 17 -- HP 13/13 d20=19 ; d20+6=16 ;
Friday February 25th, 2022 8:56:39 PM
Manolo shouts "Torryn! Thurst forward the enemy is in front of you ! just move forward"
Manolo tries to look forward as the darkness is probably going engulf him as well.
Aid Another (Torryn) 19

Perception 16

Where did they go? (DM BatMark) d20+12=30 ; d20+17=33 ;
Friday February 25th, 2022 9:59:57 PM
Ash casts a spell to enlarge Mole.
Manolo thinks he can see shapes moving in the darkness, but it must have been a trick of the light. No way he can see through that inky darkness. He hopes to aid Torryn, but is out of position to do so.
Torrynashkabbeth reaches deep into her hero tool kit, but still hits nothing but air.
Mole tells Torryn that the foe is right in front of her, to no avail. He smashes the creature himself, rocking the small fellow back on his heels.
Stowe swings ineffectually, then moves forward. She knows that her shield was glowing when briefly moved out of the darkness, so it’s light is just suppressed by the darkness.
Drack calls out for Mole to direct the party, and tries to get folks to line up, moving forward himself.
Mortimer steps around the enlarged Mole and strikes out with his cold iron dagger, striking home.
Loryn watches the darkness silently.

The creature hit by Mole and Mortimer screeches what must be foul imprecations, in a tongue none of you understands. Mole Highlight to display spoiler: {You can see the creature begin to carefully but quickly withdraw from the combat, headed for the west wall, dropping a small pebble where it had been standing. Because you have reach, you may make an attack of opportunity if you wish. The other three conscious gremlins similarly turn to head for the west wall. One remains slumped on the floor nearby.}

Here is a map.

Stowe; (Allen D); HP: 18/26; AC: 22/13/19; F: 5; R: 5; W: 1; CMD: 19
Saturday February 26th, 2022 12:09:06 AM
ooc
- correction: Stowe should only be able to move at half speed without an acrobatics check. Current position is I31.

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 7/17 AC:19/19/15: CMD: 15. F:2; R: 6; W: 5. d20=6 ; d100=88 ;
Saturday February 26th, 2022 6:29:52 AM
Now Torryn was hurt and bleeding, but she really had no time to consider that. Shouts echoed around her through the inky blackness. She felt disoriented and was no longer certain which direction was "in front", but attacking still seemed the only viable option. If she tried for a potion, surely it would be dashed from her hands before it ever found her mouth. So Torryn stabbed again. She was trying her best. Alas, it seemed that her best just wasn't enough.

[OOC: Torryn will invoke the last of Heroic reserves. (No more Hero Points remain)
1. The attack will only hit AC: 14 (given a +8 for the Hero point?)
2. 88 is a hit. (I've been consistently playing low as misses)
3. I have not rolled damage as I am far from convinced that 14 will suffice.

Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.): ac13/13/10. hp15/15.
Saturday February 26th, 2022 9:57:33 AM
Hero Point Rules.

AC 13 HP 13/13 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K
Saturday February 26th, 2022 10:09:01 AM
Loryn's head pivots about in the black. There was a call to retreat and then in standard human fashion, no one did Loryn had no spell, no weapon and assistance that he could offer. He would just as likely down a friend as he would to down an enemy and so, he backs up again, moving until he gets to where his torch flares up.

"We need to disengage. Flailing about in the dark is not a strategy and Mole is not going to win this by himself.

Loryn follows his call and continues to head out, back down the tight passage

Stowe; (Allen D); HP: 18/26; AC: 22/13/19; F: 5; R: 5; W: 1; CMD: 19
Saturday February 26th, 2022 11:41:27 AM
Stowe continues to blunder forward in the dark, thinking I have to get their attention to save my friends!

She starts shouting madly for all the gremlins to hear, unspeakable things that would make a hardened criminal blush. It shows she spent more time in kitchens under chefs like the famous gnome Gordo Ramsiar, and less like the equally famous and kindly elf, Julianna Chíldrés.

She finishes with the most evil thing she can think to say, desperate to provoke a response and draw attention from her companions, "Stop me before I find your nests and fricassee some gremlin babies!"

OOC
-Single move, 10' feet to the west.
-I would like to reserve her standard action for when I know if she can see again from that location.
-Hopefully we'll find the other edge of this darkness.

Mole; (RichP) AC 18; HP 18/18; CMD 14 d20+2=10 ; d20+2=18 ; d20+2=11 ; 2d6+2=10 ; d6+1=3 ;
Saturday February 26th, 2022 8:48:36 PM
Mole takes advantage of the retreat and swings at the bladed foe. "There moving to the west wall."

"Stowe, don't wander off!" He says at the female warrior blundering around in the darkness. "Searbhag" the dwarf speaks and a bolt of acid flies towards the bladed foe.

Mole can see those in the dark are lost. "Come towards my voice."

AoO: AC10 (don't think it will hit), damage 10; Acid bolt: Touch attack AC11, damage 3

Spell effects: Enlarge (Ash)

Spells:
0 - Flare, Guidance, Light, Stabilize
1 - CLW, (c) Faerie Fire, (c) Shillelagh, (d) Magic Stone

Acid bolt 7/day (1d6+1), used 2
Pearl of Power (used)

Stowe; (Allen D); HP: 18/26; AC: 22/13/19; F: 5; R: 5; W: 1; CMD: 19 d20+6=19 ; d8+4=6 ; d100=1 ;
Sunday February 27th, 2022 11:09:59 AM
OOC:
-If Stowe can see,
--if there's an enemy adjacent
---then attack enemy (hit: 19, dam: 6)
--if no enemy adjacent keep walking forward, trying to get back to a wall and not trigger any AoOs
-If Stowe can't see
--if enemy is sensed to the W attack enemy and use hero point to ignore miss chance in dark. (hit: 19, dam: 6)
--if no enemy sensed keep walking W 10'

Drack (Chris J) - hp 17/18 - AC 16 d20+8=16 ;
Monday February 28th, 2022 8:50:06 AM
Drack hears Mole's call to move towards him, but as far as he can tell, he's pretty close and Torry is in the way. If he is able to locate the gremlin attacking Torry, he will swing at it, but only if he's sure it isn't Torry.(perception 16)

If he is unable to verify a target, he will call out to Mole. "Mole, give me a target. you point, I'll swing."

Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 13/15
Monday February 28th, 2022 6:05:52 PM
Ash begins repeating the words to a spell, while moving his hands around. He looks towards what he feels the center of the darkness is, hoping to keep his spell and find out some info.

Cast Detect Magic

Manolo (Michael A) -- AC 17/15/12 -- CMD 17 -- HP 13/13
Monday February 28th, 2022 7:16:27 PM
Manolo closes his eyes as he sees nothing at all and shouts.
"We need to get out of this darkness !"
He readies his cross bow and reloads a arrow to it.

Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.): ac13/13/10. hp15/15. d20+1=20 ; d20+12=31 ; d20+12=15 ; d100=64 ; d20+12=20 ; d4=1 ; d4=2 ;
Monday February 28th, 2022 8:17:30 PM
(Perception: 20, to be to keep track of the screeching creature he had just struck.)

He heard it screech in pain when his blade stabbed into its flesh. The smell of its blood, very satisfying. He can hear it shuffle away as it retreats. Its heart is racing now; breath is heavy. It winches in pain. He follows after with his dagger wanting another bite!

(Mortimer attack the creature. Hero Point bonus to attack (+8), HitAC: 31, crit threat, 15, possible crit. MissChance: 64, Hero Point reroll: 20, success. Damage:1+2 = 3 cold iron damage.)

(ooc: A lot of effort for so little. :)

DM Steve -- You point, I'll swing.
Monday February 28th, 2022 9:18:40 PM
Stowe feels her way through the darkness, threatening the gremlins, until she finds. . .
Mole calls out that the enemy is moving to the west wall. He attacks as they flee, but misses.
Drack asks Mole to call out where the enemy is.
Mortimer contacts with the creature again, and hears it run off to the west.
Loryn makes his way out of the darkness, urging the others to do the same.
Ash casts detect magic.
Torrynashkabbeth attacks the foe and feels her weapon glance against something, but realizes it was a close miss.
Manolo calls out that they need to get out of the darkness. He reloads his crossbow.

Stowe: Highlight to display spoiler: {Stowe has reached the other edge of the darkness. As her shield emerges, it lights up and she sees a raggedy four foot tall humanoid with a blade in its hand. With it are three tiny dog-faced humanoids. These are at a wall, about fifteen feet away. The tiny creatures are escaping into crevices in the wall. The small one is surprised by the sudden light from Stowe’s shield, and momentarily does not act.}

Mole: Highlight to display spoiler: {The enemy run to the west wall of the chamber (at column D). The tiny ones are headed for crevices in the wall. The small one reacts oddly to Stowe, as if momentarily confused.}

Anyone west of column H must roll twice and use the lower result for attacks, skills, or saving throws.

Ash senses there is magic to the west of him. That is the same direction that everyone hears movement from. No attacks come this round (or they are very wide of the mark).

Here is a map.

Small opponent: AC 15, Damage: 12
Tiny opponent x4: AC ?, no damage, one is unconscious

Mole; (RichP) AC 18; HP 18/18; CMD 14 d20+2=14 ; d6+1=5 ;
Monday February 28th, 2022 10:33:50 PM
"There are three dog faced creatures and a small creature against the wall. I'm moving up."

Mole moves up and sends an acid bolt at the small creature.

Acid bolt: Range touch attack AC 14, damage 5

Spells:
0 - Flare, Guidance, Light, Stabilize
1 - CLW, (c) Faerie Fire, (c) Shillelagh, (d) Magic Stone

Acid bolt 7/day (1d6+1), used 3
Pearl of Power (used)

Stowe; (Allen D); HP: 18/26; AC: 22/13/19; F: 5; R: 5; W: 1; CMD: 19 d20+6=19 ; d20+6=22 ; d8+4=7 ;
Tuesday March 1st, 2022 1:27:58 AM
Stowe goes silent as she suddenly sees again, blinking in the suddenly light. She spots four creatures against the back wall of the cave, illuminated by the light streaming from her shield. Are the tiny ones actual gremlin babies? I was just trying to get their attention, I didn't actually think... Having no desire to harm the young offspring of sentient creatures, she ignores them and goes for the larger creature. She rushes across the cave floor swinging her hammer in a vicious blow that connect solidly.

OOC:
-Move: 10' W to E31
-Standard: Attack Small creature, Hit AC 19, Damage 7

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 7/17 AC:19/19/15: CMD: 15. F:2; R: 6; W: 5.
Tuesday March 1st, 2022 5:34:26 AM
Again, all was chaos. Not being able to see was such an impediment, but she could hear well enough. That Mole was sounding so confident lifted her spirits. Torryn again pressed on. She'd definitely managed to hit something, albeit without actually hurting it. Perhaps it had fled. She hoped so. She really didn't fancy the prospect of collecting more arrows - in her flesh.

[b["Lead the way, Mole,"[/b] She asked as she stayed close to the Dwarf.

[OOC: No more Hero Points remain.
If Torryn and Mole emerge from the darkness, she can deploy her Fey Shield fully once more and enjoy the benefits of her capacity to dodge. AC will revert to 23.]

Drack (Chris J) - hp 17/18 - AC 16 d20+8=26 ;
Tuesday March 1st, 2022 8:51:26 AM
Drack is unsure what to do. Mole said that there were opponents against the far wall, but last Drack heard, Torry was being attacked by something in the darkness. He decides not to leave Torry alone in her damaged condition. He will once again stand next to her and listen carefully for her assailant.(perception 26)

AC 13 HP 13/13 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K
Tuesday March 1st, 2022 10:19:32 AM
Loryn remains where he now is. For the gnome, nothing has changed. If the darkness comes at him, he will cast another Color Spray, though from the sounds and shouts, he does not think that result is likely.

'good luck guys' he says quietly to himself

Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 13/15
Tuesday March 1st, 2022 5:31:48 PM
Ash says still, but keeps his spell going. Maybe the Darkness would give him some protection from attacks.

Manolo (Michael A) -- AC 17/15/12 -- CMD 17 -- HP 13/13
Tuesday March 1st, 2022 6:41:10 PM
Manolo moves near Loryn, his hands tremble a little bit with the crossbow, not sure what is going at the other side.

Move action (Q29)

Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.): ac13/13/10. hp15/15. d20+4=17 ; d3=1 ;
Tuesday March 1st, 2022 8:34:44 PM
His bloodlust not yet satisfied, Mortimer follows the creature as it retreats. Suddenly he finds himself outside of the darkness and he can see his enemy for the first time. "Oy mate! Where you think you're goin'? I'm not done with you!"

Unbeknownst to Mortimer, his heirloom medallion gives him a very special boon. A bit of magical luck (a luck bonus) which negates another thing he is unaware of ... an aura of unluck!

Now with his target in sight, he sends a ray of icy blackness at the creature.

(Mortimer casts Ray of Frost at the creature. Hit TouchAC: 17. Damage: 1 cold damage, sigh.)

DM Steve -- I'm not done with you!
Tuesday March 1st, 2022 11:00:03 PM
Torrynashkabbeth is glad to hear Mole sounding confident, and follows Mole.
Ash concentrates on his spell.
Mole fires another acid bolt at the small opponent, missing.
Manolo moves towards Loryn.
Drack sticks with Torryn, worried that she is already injured.
Loryn stays put.
Mortimer casts a ray of frost, striking the small creature a glancing blow.
Stowe moves up and attacks their small foe, hitting it solidly.

OOC: I moved Mole, Torryn, and Drack based on the description given. Torryn and Drack remain in darkness. If this is not what you intended, the characters can remain in column L.

Anyone west of column G must roll twice and use the lower result for attacks, skills, or saving throws.

Those in darkness (or east of the darkness) can hear the fight to the west. Ash senses strong evocation magic. Mole, Stowe, and Mortimer see the tiny creatures retreat out of sight into the crevices in the wall. They also see (and everyone hears) the small creature as it starts casting a spell. Stowe is close enough to try an attack of opportunity in response to the spell. It looks injured enough that a successful attack is likely to take it down.

If Stowe’s AoO is unsuccessful, the creature casts another of its darkness-causing spells. Any other attempts to deal with it this round are made with the applicable penalties for being in darkness.

If Stowe’s AoO is successful, the opponent’s spell fails.

Small opponent: AC 15, Damage: 20
Tiny opponent x4: AC ?, no damage, one is unconscious

Stowe; (Allen D); HP: 18/26; AC: 22/13/19; F: 5; R: 5; W: 1; CMD: 19 d20+6=16 ; d20+6=13 ; d8+4=8 ;
Tuesday March 1st, 2022 11:45:44 PM
Stowe sees the creature start to raise its hands to cast a spell and she brings down the hammer, swiftly ending its attempt to cast, and likely ending its life as well.

[I]Ooc:
-AoO: use hero point for +4, hit AC16, Dam 8

DM Steve -- I'm not done with you!
Tuesday March 1st, 2022 11:54:16 PM
Oops. . . Here is a map.

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 7/17 AC:19/19/15: CMD: 15. F:2; R: 6; W: 5.
Wednesday March 2nd, 2022 5:07:57 AM
OOC: The location is fine, thanks. Torryn is doing her best to follow Mole. Wherever he is, she's hopefully not far behind.

"Right with you, Mole." Torryn told the dwarf quietly. Given all that was happening, it was far from certain that he'd hear her, but Torrym only 'shouted' through her dancing. Currently, there wasn't much else she could do. She didn't know where the enemy had gone and even she did know, her chances of actually striking her elusive quarry were minimal at best.

Torryn hoped that the darkness would end soon that she might be of more use.

Drack (Chris J) - hp 17/18 - AC 16 d20+7=10 ; d20+7=25 ;
Wednesday March 2nd, 2022 9:14:24 AM
Drack will move out into the light, and towards the last remaining gremlin. If Stowe doesn't finish him, Drack will take a swing before losing him in the dark. (rolled twice, the 10 ac is a miss)

Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 13/15
Wednesday March 2nd, 2022 9:14:34 AM
Ashe keeps concentrating on his spell. He feels like he can drop it, and move in to help but his spells are lacking. He walks towards the others, moving to the west, hoping to break the darkness,

Mole; (RichP) AC 18; HP 18/18; CMD 14 d20+2=6 ;
Wednesday March 2nd, 2022 10:11:00 AM
"Gotcha, I'm moving up." He whispers back to Torryn.

Mole moves up to the creature and swings with his warhammer but the creature easily moves out of the way. (AC6)

Spells:
0 - Flare, Guidance, Light, Stabilize
1 - CLW, (c) Faerie Fire, (c) Shillelagh, (d) Magic Stone

Acid bolt 7/day (1d6+1), used 3
Pearl of Power (used)

Stowe; (Allen D); HP: 18/26; AC: 22/13/19; F: 5; R: 5; W: 1; CMD: 19 d20+6=19 ; d20+6=11 ; d8+4=7 ;
Wednesday March 2nd, 2022 11:52:32 AM
Was that the one causing all the trouble? Is there anything else left? Stowe turns toward the uncanny darkness in the center of the room, looking for any threats. She readies her hammer to strike at anything that comes running out of it. At least, anything that isn't one of her new friends.

As Drack runs up she watches his back as he moves toward the cave wall. "The bigger one's down, but those little guys went through that crack in the wall. Watch out. I think they were running, but you never know!"

OOC:
-Still rolling twice, though not sure if that's still in effect.
-Readied attack: Hit AC11 (or 19 if only one roll), dam = 7

AC 13 HP 13/13 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K
Wednesday March 2nd, 2022 1:50:42 PM
"Be easy there Manolo, They got things in hand. And if anything unsavory pops out in front of us, well....We'll give them a good thrashing"

Loryn responds in a easy calm ton to Manolo

Manolo (Michael A) -- AC 17/15/12 -- CMD 17 -- HP 13/13
Wednesday March 2nd, 2022 9:00:02 PM
Manolo calms down a bit.
"Thanks, Torry", he simply says in response as a single tear drops from his eye.

Manolo (Michael A) -- AC 17/15/12 -- CMD 17 -- HP 13/13
Wednesday March 2nd, 2022 9:01:32 PM
Manolo calms down a bit.
"Thanks, Loryn", he simply says in response as a single tear drops from his eye.

OOC: got confused between Torryn and Loryn.

Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.): ac13/13/10. hp15/15. d20+4=7 ; d3=1 ;
Wednesday March 2nd, 2022 9:54:06 PM
Mortimer will attack again if it were necessary. Otherwise and he assess what can be done to get to the gremlins inside the cracks of the wall.

(Ray of Frost. Hit TouchAC: 7. Damage: another 1 point of cold damage, double sigh.)

DM Steve -- Right with you d8=4 ; 2d4=6 ;
Wednesday March 2nd, 2022 10:49:05 PM
Mole moves up to attack the creature, but misses.
Torrynashkabbeth continues to follow Mole, not able to do much else in the dark.
Loryn calms Manolo.
Drack moves to the west, ready to attack.
Manolo thanks Loryn.
Ash keeps concentrating on his spell.
Stowe makes an unlikely looking swing, but finds a reserve of strength and cracks through the opponent’s defenses. She starts telling the others where their enemies went.
Mortimer throws a final spell at the fallen foe.

The small creature, fallen now, detonates with a loud bang. This causes 4 points of damage to Stowe and Mole, and everyone west of column G must make a DC 13 Fortitude save. The creature has disappeared, leaving its knife and a pile of rags behind.

Those who failed the save. . . Highlight to display spoiler: {. . . are unable to hear afterward.}

Still in darkness, Ash realizes there are two evocations – the strong one a ways away, and a faint one nearby in the same direction.

Loryn and Manolo hear the sudden retort but cannot see what happened.

The small creature is gone, and the tiny ones have vanished into a crevice in the wall.

In time, the group is able to verify that there are no other creatures in the chamber, except that Mole says there’s a tiny one that Loryn color sprayed in the darkness. In the lit portions of the chamber are an assortment of bedding and various goods and oddities. (And those who were deafened recover in time.)

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 7/17 AC:19/19/15: CMD: 15. F:2; R: 6; W: 5. d20=14 ;
Thursday March 3rd, 2022 5:33:26 AM
She could see! She could also hear: the explosion was unmissable in the echoing vault. However, the enlarged Mole seemed to shield her from the worst of that noise.

!What now?" She asked tentatively as she warily watched the far wall for the emergence of anything from the ominous looking crevice. She sighed. It was likely a forlorn task. The Gremmies always seemed to be one sneaky step ahead of them; so whilst she fancied that she was ready for the next surprise, the chances were good that she wasn't. yet she could at least try. Torryn opened up her Fey Sight (Detect Magic) and scanned the wall ahead of her.

Drack (Chris J) - hp 17/18 - AC 16 d20+4=15 ;
Thursday March 3rd, 2022 8:04:53 AM
Drack shakes off the effect of the explosion(fort 15) and moves towards the wall in case other opponents pop back out.

"Is the room clear Mole? What about the small sleeping one? Is that a child or a combatant?"

Mole; (RichP) AC 18; HP 14/18; CMD 14 d20+9=21 ; d20+6=19 ;
Thursday March 3rd, 2022 9:46:33 AM
"The tiny ones fled into the gaps in the wall. The larger one is dead and the sleeping one is still in the darkness." He say back to Drack.

"We have to deal with the smaller ones. There presence will continue to plague the town and the surrounding area. Unless we can force them out, I'm not sure how to handle this."

Perception DC 21; Fort save DC 19

Spells:
0 - Flare, Guidance, Light, Stabilize
1 - CLW, (c) Faerie Fire, (c) Shillelagh, (d) Magic Stone

Acid bolt 7/day (1d6+1), used 3
Pearl of Power (used)

Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.): ac13/13/10. hp15/15.
Thursday March 3rd, 2022 12:12:30 PM
Mortimer looks back to the darkness, after Mole announces the sleeping gremlin.

He replies, "Pull the sleeper out of the dark. I'll slice'em from gullet to gizzard!"

Stowe; (Allen D); HP: 14/26; AC: 22/13/19; F: 5; R: 5; W: 1; CMD: 19 d20+5=17 ; d20+6=8 ; d20+6=25 ;
Thursday March 3rd, 2022 2:16:03 PM
Stowe starts toward the downed creature when it suddenly erupts in a flash of flame and sound. She's thrown back and crashes the the cave floor. "Uhhhh..." she groans, sitting up and shaking her head. Her ears ring slightly, though she can still hear well enough.

She gets to all-fours and crawls over to the what remains, trying to discern if the creature escaped despite their efforts. Are these the remains of a creature, or just its items left behind when it fled?

She paws through the pile of rags, and picks up the nearby knife, then she searches the surrounding nests for anything of note. "Has anyone seen any more clues as to what's motivating these creatures or how we can stop them permanently?"

To the others she replies, "Are the small ones babies, or just more of the same from earlier? I think we should punish the adults, not any juveniles. 'Crimes of the father,' and all that..."

OOC:
-Fort save (17)
-Heal check on remains (8)
-Perception check to search (25)

Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.): ac13/13/10. hp15/15. d20+4=10 ;
Thursday March 3rd, 2022 5:59:33 PM
(ooc: Whoops... I forgot to roll the Fort Save: 10, fail.)

Mortimer is surprised by the blast of the larger gremlin, who was obviously too big for the crevices. The sudden thunderclap of sound and spray of gremlin blood, bone and flesh knocks him backwards. As he gathers himself, Mortimer realizes he can no longer hear.

(ooc: So the information about the sleeping gremlin was never received.)

Manolo (Michael A) -- AC 17/15/12 -- CMD 17 -- HP 13/13
Thursday March 3rd, 2022 7:37:15 PM
Manolo is surprised by all of this occurrences but doesn't say or do anything.
OOC: Is there still darkness ?

AC 13 HP 13/13 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K
Thursday March 3rd, 2022 9:58:24 PM
Loryn winces as the explosion happens, but any fear quickly passes as he hears the others talking and calling out what they are seeing. Loryn's nose hurt, he hated when his nose hurt.

"Got me Torry" Loryn replies. "What now indeed. Don't look like we can pursue them does it Mole. More specifically the bigger folk?"

DM Steve -- What now indeed.
Thursday March 3rd, 2022 10:49:34 PM
Mole explains that the tiny gremlins fled into the wall. He thinks they need to deal with the surviving gremlins.
Manolo is surprised by the commotion.
Torrynashkabbeth asks what to do next. She scans the wall with her fey sight.
Loryn winces at the explosion, and is relieved when he hears his friends afterward. He asks Mole about the possibility of pursuing the tiny creatures.
Mortimer is knocked over by the blast, and unable to hear when he gets back up.
Stowe tries to figure out the pile of rags. She finds a large shortsword in it, and four vials. But she finds no sign of the creature that they fought. She turns her attention to the surrounding nests.
Drack moves to the wall, ready in case a gremlin appears. He asks about the unconscious gremlin.
Ash is quiet.

The crevices in the wall are a good size for a tiny creature to hide in. A small creature would be able to squeeze into them, moving slowly and carefully; a medium creature will not fit.

The darkness in the middle of the room is still there for now.

In the rest of the room the group finds much the same as they did in earlier chambers – an assortment of “treasures” probably stolen piecemeal over a long time. There is little sense to the collection – (3) sunrods (2 gp each), (2) antitoxins (50 gp each), (5) smokesticks (2 gp each), (10) tindertwigs (1 gp each), MW warhammer (312 gp), MW composite longbow (+2 strength) (600 gp), Breastplate (200 gp), Chain Shirt (100 gp), Splint Mail (200 gp), Half-Plate (600 gp). Then there are the items with the rags – a kukri (for a small creature, 8 gp), shortsword, and (4) vials. Ash can identify the sword as the source of the strong evocation he senses.

During all the searching, the formerly unconscious one leaves the darkness and tries to race past Manolo and Loryn. Each may make an attack of opportunity (rolling twice to hit and taking the lower roll).

Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 13/15
Thursday March 3rd, 2022 11:17:19 PM
" The sword has strong Evocation magic coming off it" Ash tells the others.

He watches as the small creature darts, hoping Manolo and Loryn can take it down.

Stowe; (Allen D); HP: 14/26; AC: 22/13/19; F: 5; R: 5; W: 1; CMD: 19
Friday March 4th, 2022 1:32:22 AM
Stowe waves the shortsword in front of her face, "okay, but was does it do Ash?" She asks, clearly not well-educated when it comes to magic.

She takes any coin or small valuables they've found and delivers then to Mortimer, as ther official group treasurer. Then she looks at the pile of heavy armor. "Will we need to make two trips to get this lot out of here?

Getting out of here... to think a minute ago I was sure it was the end... She looks forward to getting outside in the fresh air, and to holding her bastard sword once more instead of this foreign weapon. And eating a good meal. And laughing with her new friends. Near-death has a way of helping you appreciate things.

OOC:
-Stowe never sees the tiny gremlin because of the darkness

Drack (Chris J) - hp 17/18 - AC 16
Friday March 4th, 2022 9:22:02 AM
Drack keeps an eye on the wall, while also looking to see what kinds of treasures are discovered in the loot.

Having no idea that the other gremlin is up and running the other way, he remains clueless unless Manolo or Loryn sound an alarm, and hopefully slow it down.

Stowe; (Allen D); HP: 14/26; AC: 22/13/19; F: 5; R: 5; W: 1; CMD: 19
Friday March 4th, 2022 3:28:29 PM
Stowe looks over the other gear and asks, "Might I take a sunrod or two, and maybe this vial of antitoxin?"

She hands the shortsword over to anyone who would like to inspect it further, and lays no claim to any other gear, armor, or melee weapons.

She does pick up the shortbow though, running her hand over its length. "I used to have a bow like this, though not near so fine. I am only a passable archer, so if someone here has fair hand at shooting by all means they should have it.

She looks at it with some nostalgia, It would be a pretty thing to have, though something so well made may fetch a fine price, and there are other expenses we'll have soon enough, I'm sure. The thought of a finely wrought bastard sword crosses her mind, probably something she'd use more than the bow. She is a practical woman, after all.

OOC:
-Are the 4 other vials empty, or just not identified?

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 7/17 AC:19/19/15: CMD: 15. F:2; R: 6; W: 5. d20=3 ;
Friday March 4th, 2022 6:53:49 PM
Fortunately decided to let the others assess the goods left lying around. She maintained her watch. Something might decide to spring out and attack if they were all preoccupied. The problem was, there was a lot of blackness.

(Perception d20+7: 10. )

The bow looked good, but although she knew how to make arrows, her skill with the bow was not great. The draw weight of her father's bow was far too much for her.

(I don't think monks get access to bows.)

Manolo (Michael A) -- AC 17/15/12 -- CMD 17 -- HP 12/13 d20+5=23 ; d20+5=19 ; d8=3 ; d8=4 ;
Friday March 4th, 2022 8:07:53 PM
Manolo tries to fire his crossbow at the fleeing gremlin feeling surprised and feeling relief that he can still help the group.

Attack rolls are 23 and 19
Lowest one is 19
Damage is 3

Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.): ac13/13/10. hp15/15.
Friday March 4th, 2022 10:28:28 PM
Mortimer says, “Wha?!” He doesn’t hear so good. He hopes the ringing in his ears soon goes away. He helps with gathering the treasure, but he won’t be able to carry the sets of armor, other than the chain shirt. He can summon and invisible spectre to help lug the treasure home.

DM Steve -- I am only a passable archer
Saturday March 5th, 2022 9:30:50 AM
Manolo shoots at the fleeing gremlin, aiming well but doing no obvious damage. Highlight to display spoiler: {If Manolo has cold iron bolts, he made a solid hit that injures the creature. If he does not, then the bolt slid off the creature without hurting it.}
Torrynashkabbeth maintains a watch while the others look at the loot.
Ash tells the others about the sword.
Mortimer feels the lingering effects of the blast. He mentions he can help move the treasure.
Stowe asks Ash what the sword does. She thinks about how to get the treasure out of here. She considers which items she might like.
Drack watches the wall for returning gremlins, splitting his attention to also look at the loot.
Loryn and Mole are quiet.

Shot at as soon as it exits the darkness, the gremlin decides the darkness is its friend and returns to it. The trained spellcasters in the group do not expect the darkness to last much longer.

The vials contain a black paste, which does not detect as magic. It is not common alchemical adventurer’s fare.

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 7/17 AC:19/19/15: CMD: 15. F:2; R: 6; W: 5.
Saturday March 5th, 2022 12:05:20 PM
Torryn remained on watch, both the all and for the gremlin to appear once more from the darkness. She maintained her feysight. Gremmies were tricky things and she wanted every advantage she could muster.

OOC: I have listed all the above items on a spreadsheet. Is there somewhere this might be posted for ease of reference?
I have no idea what we already have by way of shared wealth; so I am just picking up from this point.)

Bearclaw Keep – Party Treasure

ITEMS VALUE JEWELS VALUE COINS
3) sunrods 2 gp each CP
(2) antitoxins 50 gp each SP
5) smokesticks 2 gp each EP
0) tindertwigs 1 gp each GP
MW warhammer 312 gp PP
MW composite longbow (+2 strength) 600 gp
Breastplate 200 gp
Chain Shirt 100 gp
Splint Mail 200 gp
Half-Plate 600 gp
kukri (size S) 8 gp
Shortsword (Evocation!)
4. Vials (Alchemical black paste)

Typically, that lost all the formatting, but at least gives an idea of what it will look like

Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.): ac13/13/10. hp15/15.
Saturday March 5th, 2022 3:41:42 PM
I have a party treasure list on my character sheet.

Mole; (RichP) AC 18; HP 14/18; CMD 14 d20+2=22 ; d20+2=21 ; d6+1=4 ;
Sunday March 6th, 2022 9:40:35 AM
"Let's not haggle over details here." He says turning to the gremlin in the darkness and sending a bolt of acid towards it. "Best course is to gather what we can and fall back. We can discuss important things then. I'm thinking near the closest farm in case these things come lookin' fer a fight."

Acid bolt (SR22): Range touch AC21; damage 4

Spells:
0 - Flare, Guidance, Light, Stabilize
1 - CLW, (c) Faerie Fire, (c) Shillelagh, (d) Magic Stone

Acid bolt 7/day (1d6+1), used 4
Pearl of Power (used)

Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 13/15
Sunday March 6th, 2022 9:48:40 AM
"Thats smart mole, perhaps let us recoup our spells and prepare better and blow this thing into smithereens."

Ash helps bag the items, " Should keep the incidentals and perishables. the antitoxin, sunrods etcettera... keep it as a group to use when we need. "

Drack (Chris J) - hp 17/18 - AC 16
Monday March 7th, 2022 6:57:29 AM
“I’m with Mole. Let’s grab the stuff. And leave for now. We come back once spells and injuries are recovered.”

“Probably a good idea Ash”

AC 13 HP 13/13 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K
Monday March 7th, 2022 9:19:50 AM
The gremlin pops out of the darkness and Loryn instinctively side steps to let it go by. The gnome has no weapon and is certainly not going to try and punch the creature, Manolo's shot sends it back into the darkness and that was that.

"We need, and by we I mean you guys, need to down the last gremlin in the dark. Then we can gather things and go where I agree. The nearest farm is the best choice."

Manolo (Michael A) -- AC 17/15/12 -- CMD 17 -- HP 12/13
Monday March 7th, 2022 11:44:21 AM
Manolo curses as the bolts he used were normal ones.
"
If we get him under out control or get rid of him we can safely retreat"
Manolo says, agreeing with Loryn.

Drack (Chris J) - hp 17/18 - AC 16
Monday March 7th, 2022 12:55:56 PM
“Stowe, you up for a hunt? He can’t get far in this amount of time.”

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 7/17 AC:19/19/15: CMD: 15. F:2; R: 6; W: 5.
Monday March 7th, 2022 2:10:13 PM
"I will hunt." Torryn offered. She was far from feeling her best, but the thought of leaving such a vile creature behind to cause who-know-what trouble was not one that appealed. She could still throw a Fey Spark if needed.

Stowe; (Allen D); HP: 14/26; AC: 22/13/19; F: 5; R: 5; W: 1; CMD: 19
Monday March 7th, 2022 4:00:19 PM
"Let's get it." Stowe nods, setting the bow down and taking up the hammer once more. She moves toward where the creature was last seen, staying clear of the darkness.

She'll let the others worry about the treasures they found in the cave. She's already loaded down enough and would only be able to carry a little of it anyways.

That armor will be worth a copper or two... maybe we can drag it out of here, but I'm sure it's heavy.

OOC:
-Stowe is 15lbs from medium load, 115lbs from heavy. I don't know if we need to worry about the mechanics of how we haul ~175lbs of gear out of here, but that's what she could carry.
-No loot claimed. I'll defer to everyone else on what happens with it.

Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.): ac13/13/10. hp15/15. d20+4=10 ; d3=2 ;
Monday March 7th, 2022 8:24:51 PM
Mortimer still can't hear what is being said. Being blind and deaf within the darkness, that would eliminate any chance he would have at discerning friend from foe. He remains outside the darkness and prepares to send a ray of frosty shade at the gremlin.

(Readying an Action: If Mortimer sees the gremlin appear outside the darkness, he will fire a Ray of Frost spell at it. Hit TouchAC: 10 (hopefully it's running and loses its Dex bonus to AC). Damage: 2 Cold Damage.)

(ooc: If we need to, Mortimer can conjure a number of unseen specters to help carry the loot. Each one can carry up to 20lb. or drag a 100lb. :)

DM Steve -- I will hunt. d8=2 ;
Monday March 7th, 2022 10:35:47 PM
Torryn remains vigilant.
Mole, who can see in the darkness, sends an acid bolt at the gremlin.
Ash helps collect the items. He suggests preparing to deal with the remaining gremlin.
Drack wants to take what they can, recuperate, and return to finish cllaring the place out.
Loryn thinks the gremlin should be put down before they leave.
Manolo agrees with Loryn.
Drack, Torryn, and Stowe prepare to hunt the creature.
Mortimer readies a ray of frost in case he sees the gremlin.

Mole's spell gets a yelp, and convinces the doggy gremlin that the darkness is not really his friend. It runs into the room heading towards gthe northeast, but soon sees there is no safety there, and changes course towards Manolo and the exit. Mortimer's readied spell misses, although it's close.

As before, Manolo and Loryn may make attacks of opportunity. Stowe has a 50% chance of getting an AoO as well, as she was moving in that direction. (Remember to roll twice and use the lower roll for the d20 rolls.)

Mole; (RichP) AC 18; HP 14/18; CMD 14 d20+9=17 ;
Monday March 7th, 2022 11:29:26 PM
The gremlin is out of range of another bolt. Mole know at least they need to deal with the one. He still has no idea how to get at the ones in the wall.

Perception DC17

Spells:
0 - Flare, Guidance, Light, Stabilize
1 - CLW, (c) Faerie Fire, (c) Shillelagh, (d) Magic Stone

Acid bolt 7/day (1d6+1), used 4
Pearl of Power (used)

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 7/17 AC:19/19/15: CMD: 15. F:2; R: 6; W: 5.
Tuesday March 8th, 2022 3:20:14 AM
It was frustrating. Fortunately was again positioned such that loosing her Fey Spark was not a practical option. That disappointment was greatly tempered by the knowledge that the elusive, little creature was extremely difficult to but. Her magic would likely have missed or been ineffectual. She did hope that the others would stop it.

Drack (Chris J) - hp 17/18 - AC 16
Tuesday March 8th, 2022 8:04:29 AM
Drack chases after Stowe and the creature, hoping to put himself between the gremlin and its planned exit, or get close enough to take a swing.

Stowe; (Allen D); HP: 14/26; AC: 22/13/19; F: 5; R: 5; W: 1; CMD: 19 d20+6=15 ; d3=3 ; d20+6=15 ; d8+4=12 ;
Tuesday March 8th, 2022 9:14:36 AM
Stowe wanted to avoid harming the possible offspring of the creatures in the cave, but when it runs out of the shadow next to her she swings the hammer reflexively. It does end well for the tiny thing.

OOC:
-AoO hit AC15, 12 damage
-The d3 was accidental
-I really wanted to grapple it to learn more about these creature, but mechanically you can't on an AoO. When all you have is a hammer... :)

Stowe; (Allen D); HP: 14/26; AC: 22/13/19; F: 5; R: 5; W: 1; CMD: 19
Tuesday March 8th, 2022 9:16:34 AM
OOC: Sorry, just realized we didn't know the AC on these guys. I apologize for my hubris, 15 may not hit.

AC 13 HP 13/13 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K d20+4=14 ; d6+1=4 ;
Tuesday March 8th, 2022 9:41:58 AM
Loryn's eyes get a bit big as the gremlin head his direction. Being unarmed, there is little to nothing that he can do. He will give chase after the creature goes by. If the gremlins move leaves him within 40', Loryn can close and send a line of magical acid at the creature

Ranged Touch attack hit AC 14 Dmg 4

Mole; (RichP) AC 18; HP 14/18; CMD 14
Tuesday March 8th, 2022 9:56:26 AM
Addendum-

Mole moves to give chase to the gremlin. (Movement indicated on the map.)

Manolo (Michael A) -- AC 17/15/12 -- CMD 17 -- HP 12/13 d20+5=9 ; d20+5=16 ; d8=3 ;
Tuesday March 8th, 2022 7:32:23 PM
Manolo considers to rush and tackle the little one but tries to use his crossbow to shot one more.
Still refusing to believe that only Iron will kill this thing.

Attack 9
Damage 3

Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.): ac13/13/10. hp15/15. d20+4=7 ; d4=3 ;
Tuesday March 8th, 2022 9:28:26 PM
Everyone seems to be chasing after the last gremlin. Mortimer draws his cold-iron dagger and maneuvers to join the dogpile.

(ooc: I have no idea the placement of everyone, or how far away the gremlin is.)

If the opportunity presents itself ... (With dagger. Hit AC: 7. Damage: 3 cold iron damage.)

DM Steve -- I will hunt. d2=2 ;
Tuesday March 8th, 2022 10:35:38 PM
Mortimer readies his dagger to join in the fight.
Torrynashkabbeth is frustrated at being in a bad position to hunt the loose gremlin.
Manolo shoots at the creature, but misses.
Ash
Loryn gets ready to chase the creature, but cannot effectively attack at the moment.
Stowe takes a swipe at the gremlin, dropping it with the blow.
Drack chases after Stowe, hoping to get ahead of the gremlin.
Mole thinks about letting the others deal with the loose gremlin, but lopes after it as he ponders the ones in the wall.

Stowe’s blow takes the gremlin down. A few moments later, the darkness disappears, revealing the entirety of the room. There is nothing of interest that the group has not already found, though.

Stowe; (Allen D); HP: 14/26; AC: 22/13/19; F: 5; R: 5; W: 1; CMD: 19
Tuesday March 8th, 2022 11:01:42 PM
Stowe looks at the tiny, dead thing. "Is this creature the same as those earlier ones? It seems smaller, more scared..."

She studies it for a second, then shakes her head and gathers with the others to plan their next moves.

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 7/17 AC:19/19/15: CMD: 15. F:2; R: 6; W: 5.
Wednesday March 9th, 2022 2:47:33 AM
"Same or not, it meant to inflict the same level of misery and suffering, I'm sure.". Torryn replied. Nothing had emerged from the crevice. There didn't seem to be much else to do but gather all that they could and head back; not that she was going to suggest that. She'd let wiser heads prevail. Carrying was not her strong suit, but she'd do her best.

Drack (Chris J) - hp 17/18 - AC 16
Wednesday March 9th, 2022 7:19:19 AM
“Do any of you spellcasters have a way to do anything about the gremlins in the wall? If not, it looks like our job here is complete. At least for now.”

“I can probably carry another 100 pounds of stuff. It would be a pretty good load(moderately encumbered) but I should be able to do it. I have a couple sacks we can put stuff in.”

Mole; (RichP) AC 18; HP 14/18; CMD 14
Wednesday March 9th, 2022 7:48:38 AM
"I don't have anyway to deal with them in the wall, at this point." He says. "We have to come back to deal with the things in the water still."

Spells:
0 - Flare, Guidance, Light, Stabilize
1 - CLW, (c) Faerie Fire, (c) Shillelagh, (d) Magic Stone

Acid bolt 7/day (1d6+1), used 4
Pearl of Power (used)

Stowe; (Allen D); HP: 14/26; AC: 22/13/19; F: 5; R: 5; W: 1; CMD: 19
Wednesday March 9th, 2022 9:26:51 AM
"That sounds good Drack, I think between the two of us we can carry all this heavy armor. There's a nice breastplate here, might protect you a bit more than your chain shirt." She gestures toward her own, "It only pinches a bit, though you probably won't have to worry about that quite as much..." she says with a small smirk.

She walks over to the hole in the wall and asks Mole, "Is there a way to block up this hole? Would that even stop them?" She shrugs and mumbles, "probably a bad idea."

"Those ones in the water are dangerous. They put us right to sleep, and we could drown in that pool if that happened again. Unless you know a way to breath underwater, and a way to resist magical sleep, we could be in trouble. I think some longspears could help though, if we are going to fight from the edge of the pool." She gestures to the one Torryn carries.

Stowe starts strapping the armor items to her pack to carry out.

OOC:
-Loading up, but staying within the medium encumbrance range.

AC 13 HP 13/13 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K
Wednesday March 9th, 2022 11:25:00 AM
Loryn shrugs, "I have no idea Stowe and to be honest, I don't really care." Loryn heads over to the wall and looks up at Drack, "Well I could pull a great earth elemental from the distant planes and send him beyond the wall to destroy the creatures." he pauses as if in thought, "Though that does not seem overly sporting of me, but if you think that would be best, I'll do it."

"In the meantime, why don't we collect what we can and return top side. Mole is right, We got the things in the water still as well and I think we need to see where that might come out."

Loryn is pretty sure the others are not going to expect him to actually conjure an earth elemental and so he is ready to head back out

Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.): ac13/13/10. hp15/15.
Wednesday March 9th, 2022 1:05:10 PM
Mortimer can see everyone's mouths flapping, but he can only hear a constant, high-pitched ringing in his ears. If he were to rely on his lip reading ability, Drack just proposed marriage to Stowe and Loryn just asked if he could run a comb through his beard. The latter could possibly be true, his beard could use a proper combing. To everyone else, he just shrugs and says in a louder than normal voice, "I can't hear you!"

He wonders how long this deafness is going to last.

Stowe; (Allen D); HP: 14/26; AC: 22/13/19; F: 5; R: 5; W: 1; CMD: 19
Wednesday March 9th, 2022 3:29:56 PM
Stowe looks at Loryn, confused. "Did you get hit on the head in the fight? I didn't say anything to you."

"But by all means, please summon your earth elemental so we can be done with this."

Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 13/15
Wednesday March 9th, 2022 5:37:44 PM
Ash's eyes go wide at Loryn's boast. " You... you can do that? " the mage asks as he looks at his own hands.

" yea" he adds, agreeing with Stowe. " Summon it. I don't know why you didnt do that earlier."

Manolo (Michael A) -- AC 17/15/12 -- CMD 17 -- HP 12/13
Wednesday March 9th, 2022 7:42:31 PM
Manolo helps with collecting what they find but doesn't say anything.

DM Steve -- You... you can do that?
Wednesday March 9th, 2022 8:41:43 PM
Stowe looks at the dead gremlin. She is willing to help carry stuff. She asks about plugging the holes the gremlins fled into.
Mole mentions that they will have to come back and deal with the things in the water.
Drack asks if anyone is able to do anything about the gremlins in the wall. He is willing to help carry what they’ve found.
Loryn suggests summoning an earth elemental to go after the ones in the wall. He agrees with Mole about the water-gremlins.
Mortimer continues to have difficulty hearing. He seems unaware that it is psychosomatic*.
Ash expresses awe that Loryn could summon an earth elemental. He asks why Loryn didn’t do that earlier.
Torrynashkabbeth assures Stowe that the gremlin was interested in causing misery, whether it is the same as the others or not. She doesn’t know what to do but gather things up and head back to town.
Manolo helps with collecting what they find but doesn't say anything.

This gremlin looks a lot like the body the crew found the night of the fire.

The group gathers what they can of value and make their way back out of the cave. In the pool room, the two water-gremlins are still in the pool, but make no effort to leave it to attack. The trek from the cave mouth to a decent resting spot is not a fun one – the path was friendlier coming down unladen than it is now. But the group get back to the larger trail with no incident.

(If it is your intent, they get back to town with no incident.)

=====
* OOC: My fault for putting it in a spoiler when it happened – the deafness lasted several rounds, but has worn off.

Manolo (Michael A) -- AC 17/15/12 -- CMD 17 -- HP 12/13
Wednesday March 9th, 2022 11:47:19 PM
"it's safer now and hopefully we don't have many battles with them"
Manolo comments.

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 7/17 AC:19/19/15: CMD: 15. F:2; R: 6; W: 5.
Thursday March 10th, 2022 2:33:39 AM
Torryn was grateful for the rest. She wasn't used to carrying heavy loads, but stubbornly persisted. It would not be fair to over laden someone else. Her thoughts drifted to the problem of the water gremlins. How to deal with them? No ready solution sprang to mind.

She stood, drank some water and then began to stretch impressively. That would freshen her muscles ready for the remainder of the journey. Torryn was very flexible and worked hard to remain so.

Stowe; (Allen D); HP: 14/26; AC: 22/13/19; F: 5; R: 5; W: 1; CMD: 19
Thursday March 10th, 2022 7:56:07 AM
Stowe's eyes cross slightly as she takes in the bending form or Torryn. How does she get her leg there? that shouldn't be possible!

Drack (Chris J) - hp 17/18 - AC 16
Thursday March 10th, 2022 7:57:39 AM
Drack rolls his eyes at Loryn’s earth elemental sarcasm, and moves out of area with everyone else.

“I’m thinking we head back to town. We are carrying too much stuff to go back in now. Seems a good idea to go back, rest and recover, and come up with a plan for what’s next.”

AC 13 HP 13/13 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K
Thursday March 10th, 2022 9:52:08 AM
Loryn tries to keep his face straight and partially succeeds. "That would be something now wouldn't it?"

"Sorry Stowe, Thought I heard something about the gremlin and what, no worries. As to why not bring forth creatures from other planes of existence to do your bidding all the time Ash? Well, its dangerous and makes one lazy. But here goes"

Loryn steps to the wall and places a hand on it and 'concentrates'. In gnome Highlight to display spoiler: {'Sometimes I just can't help myself" he mumbles and then casts Ghost Sound to the other side mimicking a low roar of grating earth}
A low roar of earth and rock can be heard from the other side of the wall and Loryn calls through the hole "Gu b'kt shg"

He turns, "Not sure he'll find anything." and dismissing everything so it would seem, the gnome walks over to assist with gathering stuff up. "So what'd we find?"

Loryn follows along and as they pass the pool, he keeps a wary eye on them. That trick, he did not appreciate. How to handle them, how. Nothing came to him, nothing safe at any rate.

At the top of the trail, he takes a small break. He was not built for physical hardships. Loryn suggests a return to Minerva's a nd a more thorough examination of all things.

Did we find Grog's missing short sword

Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.): ac13/13/10. hp15/15.
Thursday March 10th, 2022 9:56:09 AM
Once they make their way to the surface, Mortimer suddenly senses the sensation of sound once again. He is very thankful for such luck. As they were making their way to town with the treasure, thoughts linger upon the magical short sword.

"You know ... Grog had a sword stolen from him. Maybe this magic sword is the one! He would be very thankful to have it returned." And be very generous with his reward! Who knows what treasures he's collected over his long adventuring career, Mortimer imagines.

Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.): ac13/13/10. hp15/15.
Thursday March 10th, 2022 9:58:57 AM
Mortimer chuckles that Loryn also came to the same conclusion about the sword at the same time.

Stowe; (Allen D); HP: 14/26; AC: 22/13/19; F: 5; R: 5; W: 1; CMD: 19
Thursday March 10th, 2022 12:33:06 PM
OOC:
Loryn/Dan, I misunderstood you and it was my own fault. I'm sorry, I was rude there.

Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 13/15
Thursday March 10th, 2022 2:28:25 PM
Ash smiles to Loryn, and listens to the " elementals growl"..." Oh... i heard it. Good job Loryn " he says with a smile.

He'll carry whatever needed and he out. If no other plans come up, he'll head back to town with the others.

Manolo (Michael A) -- AC 17/15/12 -- CMD 17 -- HP 12/13 d20+2=22 ;
Thursday March 10th, 2022 6:43:29 PM
Manolo makes a surprised sound as he is just reminder about the magic sword.
He takes a quick look at the items they found to see if one of them belong or looks like it belongs to Grog.
He talks to himself while he tries to guess the value of each item.

Appraise 22 (natural 20)

Stowe; (Allen D); HP: 14/26; AC: 22/13/19; F: 5; R: 5; W: 1; CMD: 19
Thursday March 10th, 2022 8:42:56 PM
Stowe looks with surprise at the sounds coming from the hole in the wall, her eyebrows raising with slight fear as she glances at Loryn. She quickly gathers the last of the items and hauls her load of armor and weapons up out of the caves and back to Minerva's, as Loryn suggested.

DM Steve -- Gu b'kt shg
Thursday March 10th, 2022 10:48:17 PM
Ash congratulates Loryn on the elemental summoning, aware of the joke.
Mortimer begins to hear as they leave the cave. He thinks maybe the sword they found could be Grog’s.
Manolo comments that it should be safer now. Tries to assess the value of the treasure as they collect it.
Torrynashkabbeth stubbornly refuses to rest until the others do, whereupon she stretches.
Stowe is impressed with Torryn’s flexibility and Loryn’s summoning. She’s all for going to Minerva’s.
Drack suggests heading to town, recovering, and planning their next move.
Loryn tries to keep a straight face as he uses a ghost sound to make the sounds of grating earth and stone come from within the wall. He then helps with the gathering and carrying, while wondering about Grog’s missing shortsword.
Mole is quiet.

The group get back to Minerva’s without incident. There is one point on the road when they hear a horse and rider approach from the front, but those veer off onto another path before reaching the group. They do not catch a glimpse of the rider, but can tell there is one by the singing.

Know religion
DC 10: Highlight to display spoiler: {Although you can’t make out the words, the tune is familiar.}
DC 15: Highlight to display spoiler: {The tune is used by the church of Domi. It is a song to inspire the listener – in this case probably the singer rather than the horse – to accomplish more.}

Back in town, the group make their way to Minerva’s with their assorted loads. It makes a small pile in the boarding house common room. Minerva comes out from the kitchen to see what the noise is. She seems happy to see them, and is obviously curious but does not pry.

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 7/17 AC:19/19/15: CMD: 15. F:2; R: 6; W: 5.
Friday March 11th, 2022 5:25:15 AM
Torryn picked up her load once more and followed the others back to town. The singing was just that - singing. It didn't really sound like something she could readily dance to, so it was dismissed in favour of focussing on carrying. She decided that carrying heavy weights was not something she was a fan of. however, she elected to try some of Agratha's meditative techniques in an attempt to use her mind to help her body. Agratha made it all look so easy. It wasn't. the load STILL felt heavy.

It was a great relief to dump all that stuff into a pile with the rest.

"Some cold water: that's what i need." She said to no one in particular before setting off to the kitchen to find the very same. Her thirst slaked, she sat down cross-legged on the floor to begin helping identify the various items.

Drack (Chris J) - hp 17/18 - AC 16 d20+9=20 ;
Friday March 11th, 2022 10:05:15 AM
On the way back to town, Drack hears an approaching rider, and immediately goes on alert, and tries to listen as he hears a song being sung by the rider. (Int check +8 hero point used=20).)

Drack tells the rest of the group that "the song is used by the church of Domi. It is a song to inspire the listener to accomplish more."

Drack feels a little more upbeat as he realizes that he and his friends just vanquished an evil threat to the town, and a follower of his patron deity is singing and inspirational song of valor.

Stowe; (Allen D); HP: 14/26; AC: 22/13/19; F: 5; R: 5; W: 1; CMD: 19
Friday March 11th, 2022 10:35:48 AM
Stowe heads to her rooms and removes her armor. She takes a look at her wounds. I'm more beat-up than I thought. I hope we can get the healer to come around again. She looks at a healing potion and shakes her head, best to save it.

Then she head back down to join the others in the common room, and hopefully to bathe shortly after they plan their next moves.

OOC: feeling like I shouldve made a cleric! No healing from Stowe until level 4 other than mundane (basically useless) things.

Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.): ac13/13/10. hp15/15. d20+4=24 ;
Friday March 11th, 2022 11:52:33 AM
(Religion: 24 ... and I roll a natural 20 on a skill check!)

Mortimer agrees with Drack, however he adds, "Being a lone rider, he was possibly trying to inspire his horse to run like the wind. I wonder what's the urgency?"

AC 13 HP 13/13 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K d20+9=29 ; d20+9=21 ; d20+9=28 ; d20+9=21 ;
Friday March 11th, 2022 2:57:26 PM
Loryn cruises along, trying to keep up with the big folk. It has always been a challenge. His ears perk up at the rider and singing and a side look to Ash. "Someone heading out of Windhorne in a hurry you think? What are the odds it's dirt from brains who wanted to burn Agatha as a witch?" He then smiles a bit too much, "Or the earth elemental spooked him. They can come right through the ground to grab ya, you know."

At Minerva's, Loryn casts Prestidigitation upon himself to clean up and as the spell lasts for an hour, he offers to de-funk anyone else as well.
Then comes his own Detect Magic and the study of what he can find out.

Spell craft DC 29...21...28...21

Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 13/15 d20+10=16 ; d20+10=16 ; d20+10=25 ; d20+10=29 ;
Friday March 11th, 2022 5:08:40 PM
Ash aids Loryn in the identification of the items. (+2 to all). He takes a drink when offered, and also the cleaning offered from Loryn.

Manolo (Michael A) -- AC 17/15/12 -- CMD 17 -- HP 12/13 d20=12 ;
Friday March 11th, 2022 6:42:37 PM
Manolo offers help to Loryn and sips any non alcoholic hot drink he can get.
Aid another 12

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 7/17 AC:19/19/15: CMD: 15. F:2; R: 6; W: 5.
Saturday March 12th, 2022 3:28:40 AM
If there was cleaning and bathing to be had, Torryn was most certainly having it: preferably both. As they already knew what was magical, she doubted that her own meagre skills would be of great service. If she had to fill the bath tub herself, that was fine. It was still most definitely worth it.
"I hope no one minds if I take a bath before tackling all this stuff?" She asked. There were other things she needed to do also, not least have words with her tutor, Agratha. There was no great rush though. She'd help her friends as best she could first - after the bath.

DM Steve -- Some cold water: that's what I need.
Saturday March 12th, 2022 11:18:39 AM
Ash helps Loryn identify the items.
Manolo offers to help Loryn while enjoying a drink.
Mortimer wonders if the rider is in a hurry.
Drack feels good about what they’ve accomplished, perhaps inspired by the song of valor.
Loryn makes a joke about his earth elemental. He cleans up at Minerva’s and starts studying items.
Torrynashkabbeth dismisses the singing because she can’t dance to it. When they arrive at Minerva’s, she looks for some cold water then volunteers to sort items after a bath.
Stowe checks her wounds and hopes they can find a healer. Then she joins the others to plan their next move.
Mole is quiet.

The party considers their loot. Only one item is magical, that being the large short sword that the small creature was carrying. (That little creature wouldn’t have been able to use the sword in combat very well.) When Loryn picks it up to examine it, Minerva says, ”Good. You found Grog’s sword. The whole town’ll be happy about that.” Loryn examines the sword and realizes that it is a powerful magic item. Not only does it improve it’s wielder’s attacks in melee, but it brings him good fortune in general.

The non-magical items are easy to identify. Many folks might not be able to identify the alchemical items, but the group has seen or heard of such things in their training, if not used them themselves. The only mystery is the four vials of black paste. Spellcraft does not help identify those.

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 7/17 AC:19/19/15: CMD: 15. F:2; R: 6; W: 5.
Saturday March 12th, 2022 11:53:12 AM
A much cleaner and refreshed Torryn re-entered the room to pick through the sundry items found. She held up one of the black paste containers.

"Do you think it might be Weapon Black?" She asked. She heard of such a thing, but never seen it and indeed was rather glad of the fact, for it was rumoured that only assassins and other miscreants used such things. Of course, if it was a caustic substance, you really didn't want to test it by smothering your prized blade in the stuff. Torryn sighed lightly and set the vial down. She really wasn't much good at this sort of thing.

"Do you guys mind if I go talk to Agratha, my tutor? I've lots of questions about happened - and didn't happen" The latter was a reference to her inability to actually hit much of anything. The martial art training was a lot more challenging than she's initially thought. Her mercurial nature didn't lend itself readily to such discipline. Clearly her progress would be slow, but better to be slow than non-existent. Perhaps there might be some other way that she could be of more use. Agratha would know.

Stowe; (Allen D); HP: 14/26; AC: 22/13/19; F: 5; R: 5; W: 1; CMD: 19 d20+5=11 ; d20+6=14 ;
Saturday March 12th, 2022 12:31:24 PM
Stowe picks up the vial of black paste, inspects it quisically, then opens it and sniffs it. She shrugs and takes a tiny bit on the tine of a fork, then tastes it with the practiced motion of a chef. She bugs out her eyes and grabs her throat, then falls forward, face flat on the table.

OOC:
-That's a preemptive fortitude save, then a profession (chef) check to identify ingredients.
-Good luck Stowe!

Manolo (Michael A) -- AC 17/15/12 -- CMD 17 -- HP 12/13 d20=12 ;
Saturday March 12th, 2022 4:03:40 PM
Manolo takes a whiff of the black paste and complains about the smell to Stowe.

Aid Another 12 ( helping Stowe)

Mole; (RichP) AC 18; HP 14/18; CMD 14
Saturday March 12th, 2022 10:16:11 PM
Back in town, Mole doesn't speak much, as per his normal. At the tavern, he orders food and ale.

"Never needed much for cleanin'. So, I'm good."

He watches Stowe taste the alchemical substance then just shakes his head. "Stupid surface dwellers." He mutters before getting up and finding a different place to sit and enjoy his meal.

Manolo (Michael A) -- AC 17/15/12 -- CMD 17 -- HP 12/13
Sunday March 13th, 2022 6:31:30 PM
Manolo waits for Stowe to tell them what is this weird substance.

Drack (Chris J) - hp 17/18 - AC 16
Monday March 14th, 2022 5:31:28 AM
Drack accepts Loryns instant cleaning, and sits with the others as the plans of what to do with the items are discussed. He suggests that Mole use a healing spell on Torry to speed along her recovery.

His jaw jaw drops as he sees Stowe taste an unknown paste recently claimed from gremlins. “Are ya daft? Ya don’t just taste something like that.” Drack then stands by to see what horrible effects happen to Stowe

Mole; (RichP) AC 18; HP 14/18; CMD 14 d8+2=7 ;
Monday March 14th, 2022 10:25:07 AM
Mole sits and starts on his meal when he hears Dracks suggestion. "Come here lass. I can relieve some of your injuries now, but the rest'll have ta wait for tomorrow."

If Torryn comes over, Mole will place a hand on her and say "Gabhail ri leigheas na tìre." A green glow comes over the area and her wounds begin to seal themselves.

Torryn is healed for 7 points.

AC 13 HP 13/13 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K
Monday March 14th, 2022 10:50:04 AM
Loryn points to Drack and removes the grime and dirt and eyes Mole a bit, "Not sure I would agree with that statement on being clean." For now, he does not press the issue nor use the spell on the dwarf without consent. That time may come however, but not today

"Definitely Grog's sword, we'll get it back to him shortly. Thinking sooner is better than later." As to the paste, Loryn was no alchemist, that was his older cousin's thing. Was being a powerful word as he thought about the last moments he heard about Gilblick and the explosion that rocked the area. He looks up from thought just in time to see Stowe taste the stuff. "Odd, are humans not taught to not put random things in their mouth?"

Being a chef himself, he's tasted plenty of bad things in his years, but they were all known foods or ingredients. "Stuff could be actual gremlin poo in a bottle Stowe."

Stowe; (Allen D); HP: 14/26; AC: 22/13/19; F: 5; R: 5; W: 1; CMD: 19
Monday March 14th, 2022 11:12:24 AM
Stowe slumps off the chair and onto the floor, tongue lolling from her mouth. Apparently comatose.

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 14/17 AC:19/19/15: CMD: 15. F:2; R: 6; W: 5. d20=19 ;
Monday March 14th, 2022 1:00:30 PM
"Oh, thank you, Mole. And thanks also to your generous god. I do feel so much better." Torryn smiled broadly in delight. She decided that perhaps she'd taken the gods a little lightly. It wasn't that she'd ever been irreverent. It was simply that other things had occupied her decidedly mercurial mind. Yet she was trying. She'd persisted with her studies, doing her best to learn from the halfling monk. Her ruminations were interrupted by Stowe's noisy collision with the floor. Instinctively Torryn skipped over and knelt down to check on her. She was hardly the best equipped to do this, but was worried.

[OOC: Heal check to identify the malady. D20+1: 20]

Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 13/15
Monday March 14th, 2022 5:46:19 PM
Ash gets some food, and buys his group a round of drinks. This was a time to celebrate their "win" as a team, and mostly successful mission.

Manolo (Michael A) -- AC 17/15/12 -- CMD 17 -- HP 12/13
Monday March 14th, 2022 6:46:07 PM
Manolo taps Stowe lightly with his foot as if afraid to touch him, saying almost comically "Are you OK!!! ?"

Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.): ac13/13/10. hp15/15. d20+1=21 ;
Monday March 14th, 2022 9:10:27 PM
Mortimer is anxious to return Grog his sword. See how the others are cleaning up, he will do the same. He will use prestidigitation to clean himself up from the grime and mud of the cave.

"Minerva, do you happen to know where Grog would be this time of day?" He's lived here a little more than two years, he should know the answer to this.

(Knowledge [Local]: 21, and again, another natural 20 on a skill check.)

DM Steve -- Do you think it might be Weapon Black?
Monday March 14th, 2022 10:41:04 PM
Torrynashkabbeth wonders if the vials might contain weapon black. She feels the need to go talk to her mentor, feeling she could have been more effective in combat. When Mole heals her, she thanks him. When Stowe collapses, she tries to help.
Loryn cleans Drack with his magic, and refrains from cleaning Mole. He suggests getting the sword back to Grog sooner than later. As for Stowe’s antics – he points out what it could be.
Ash is ready for a minor celebration.
Drack lets Loryn clean him, and asks if Stowe is daft. He waits for something horrible to happen to Stowe.
Mortimer is anxious to return Grog’s sword. Since the others are cleaning up, he does as well.
Stowe decides to investigate one of the vials. She tastes a tiny bit, then bugs out her eyes, grabs her throat, and falls forward face flat on the table. From there she slumps off the chair and onto the floor, tongue lolling from her mouth.
Mole grabs something to eat, disapproving of Stowe tasting the paste. He helps Torryn by healing some of her wounds.
Manolo takes a whiff of the black paste that Stowe tasted, and describes the smell for her. He waits for her assessment of what it is. When Stowe collapses, he asks if she’s ok.

Grog spends more of his time at the inn than anywhere else, and is there almost every day for at least part of it. Even though his granddaughter and her husband now run it, that’s the best place to look for him.

Before she is on the floor at all long, Stowe starts convulsing and Torryn realizes that she has been poisoned. There’s nothing to do but induce vomiting. The whole scene upsets Minerva, from the realization that Stowe doesn’t know what she has to the need to clean up in its aftermath. ”Oh, is she going to be okay? Someone go get Norma or Trebor.”

Stowe, make another fortitude saving throw, looking for DC 15.

Stowe; (Allen D); HP: 14/26; AC: 22/13/19; F: 5; R: 5; W: 1; CMD: 19 d20+5=14 ;
Monday March 14th, 2022 10:49:44 PM
She continues to be poisoned.

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 14/17 AC:19/19/15: CMD: 15. F:2; R: 6; W: 5. d20=4 ;
Tuesday March 15th, 2022 4:07:36 AM
Poisoning! Torryn was certain that was what afflicted Stowe. Sadly her limited knowledge of healing simply didn't extend to something so complex. (Rolled a 4). Still, she felt compelled to at least try to induce vomiting.

"Mole, she's been poisoned!" She called out. After that amazing bit of healing, she felt certain that the dwarf could help.

Mole; (RichP) AC 18; HP 14/18; CMD 14 d20+8=20 ;
Tuesday March 15th, 2022 8:44:01 AM
Torryn calls out to Mole. Poisoned, no kidding. he thinks as he gets up from his meal.

"Not sure what ya think I can do?" He says.

Mole takes a looks at Stowe. "Even if I could help, I don't have any herbs or meds to treat her."

Heal DC20

Drack (Chris J) - hp 17/18 - AC 16
Tuesday March 15th, 2022 9:01:01 AM
Drack stands by helplessly, wishing he could assist, but having no means whatsoever to do so.

As he watches the scene unfold, Drack thinks to himself that he's not sure he wants to go into battle with Stowe. She appears to either have a death wish, or is too clueless or reckless to rely on. Counting on someone like that in battle is likely to get everyone killed.

Stowe; (Allen D); HP: 14/26; AC: 22/13/19; F: 5; R: 5; W: 1; CMD: 19
Tuesday March 15th, 2022 11:16:40 AM
Stowe sees a bright light and she heads toward it. Floating closer and closer, the pain of all the hurts fading from her mortal husk.

AC 13 HP 13/13 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K d20+6=8 ;
Tuesday March 15th, 2022 12:07:25 PM
Loryn hops up in a mild panic. Things just went from make fun of her to deadly serious. He looks to Mole, trying to wrack his brain for something from the kitchen that might counteract it, but has nothing. Stowe didn't eat something, she barely touched it. As Minvera mentions Norma, Loryn was also thinking that direction and whirls on his heel to fetch the cleric.

Of course the laden gnome is traveling at a mere 5' every second taking him nearly 6 full seconds to just get out the door

Stowe; (Allen D); HP: 14/26; AC: 22/13/19; F: 5; R: 5; W: 1; CMD: 19
Tuesday March 15th, 2022 3:57:26 PM
In her near death state, Stowe's mind drifts to Drack's insistence on wearing no armor. He appears to either have a death wish, or is too clueless or reckless to rely on. Counting on someone like that in battle is likely to get everyone killed.

Drack (Chris J) - hp 17/18 - AC 16
Tuesday March 15th, 2022 4:08:28 PM
Drack, wearing his chain shirt ARMOR, waits to see what can be done to help Stowe.

Manolo (Michael A) -- AC 17/15/12 -- CMD 17 -- HP 12/13
Tuesday March 15th, 2022 4:58:21 PM
Manolo watches the unfolding scene doing nothing as he is not sure what to do.

Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.): ac13/13/10. hp15/15. d20=16 ;
Tuesday March 15th, 2022 6:26:52 PM
"Wha?!"

Mortimer spins around in Stowe's direction! "Poison! How?!"

He was about to make a run for Norma when Loryn had already beat him to it. His mind searches for other remedies. He hadn't stolen any healer's kits lately. With his newly found morality, over the past few years, it seemed wrong to steal something that could save someone's life. Now he wishes he did.

(Intelligence Check: 16, to remember)

"Wait a minute!" He HAD stolen something that could help ... "The antitoxin we pinched from the gremlins!" Moritmer starts going through the pile of their spoils, searching for two vials of antitoxin. Having found the antitoxin, he rushes over to Stowe to pour the elixir into her mouth. "It's NOT your time yet!"

(Antitoxin: Duraton: 1 hour. Effect: +5 alchemcial bonus to Fort saves against poison.)

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 14/17 AC:19/19/15: CMD: 15. F:2; R: 6; W: 5.
Tuesday March 15th, 2022 6:40:56 PM
"Ugh!" Torryn grunted. She was such an idiot. her mind wandered and meandered all the time and now that lack of focus could cost Stowe her life! Torryn could Detect Poison at will, but hadn't. had she paid more attention, she could have alerted everyone to the danger. All too late she invoked her Fey Sight to determine where the poison, fully expecting it to be the black stuff.
"I'm such an idiot." She whispered reproachfully.

Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 13/15
Tuesday March 15th, 2022 8:22:16 PM
"Eat crackers?" Ash asked, unaware how to save someone from poisoning. "Or drink some sludge to make yourself puke" the second one was said with a little more suredness.

DM Steve -- Eat crackers?
Tuesday March 15th, 2022 11:04:12 PM
Mole doesn’t have herbs or magic for poison, but does what he can.
Mortimer remembers something – didn’t they find antitoxin among other things the gremlins had stolen? He finds it in the pile and offers some to Stowe.
Torrynashkabbeth asks Mole to help Stowe. Then she realizes she could have looked for poison with her fey sight.
Manolo watches, not sure what to do.
Stowe sees a bright light and heads toward it. She worries about Drack fighting with no armor.
Loryn hops up and goes to get help.
Drack watches helplessly, and wonders about Stowe’s judgment.
Ash suggests giving Stowe crackers. Or making her puke, which Torryn has already done.

Between Mole and Torryn using their skills, they are pretty sure that whatever Stowe swallowed has been vigorously expelled, and quite likely before it could do permanent damage. But Stowe’s certainly not feeling well at the moment, and may be hallucinating.

The group may give Stowe the antitoxin and be more sure that she will be okay (new saving throw at +5, still looking for DC 15). Or they may trust Torryn’s and Mole’s assessment that Stowe will recover after sufficient rest.

In time, Loryn returns with Norma and a stranger. The look over Stowe and pronounce her not getting any worse. The stranger is an older man with close-cropped hair and plain robes. He wears the symbol of a hammer and shield. ”What happened?”

The man also introduces himself as Brother Maynard.

Drack (Chris J) - hp 17/18 - AC 16
Wednesday March 16th, 2022 8:10:27 AM
Drack will respond to brother Maynard, since no one else had chimed in yet. "She decided to taste test an unknown black paste that we found in a gremlin lair."

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 14/17 AC:19/19/15: CMD: 15. F:2; R: 6; W: 5.
Wednesday March 16th, 2022 8:32:17 AM
"I'm so sorry!" Blurted Torryn. "It's all my fault. I didn't check if it was poisonous. I...well,...I sort of forgot." She finished weakly and with head bowed in contrition. How could Stowe ever forgive her? It seemed that her father's assessment of her capricious nature was correct. Too often she had her head in the clouds Her thoughts darted hither and yon like an over-excited squirrel anxiously sequestering nuts.

Stowe; (Allen D); HP: 14/26; AC: 22/13/19; F: 5; R: 5; W: 1; CMD: 19
Wednesday March 16th, 2022 1:48:43 PM
Stowe staggers to her feet, "Sorry everyone, I don't think I'm cut out for this adventuring stuff."

She staggers back to her rooms, the door closing softly behind her.

Stowe has left the party.

AC 13 HP 13/13 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K
Wednesday March 16th, 2022 5:02:08 PM
Loryn comes back very much out of breath and several minutes behind brother Maynard and Norma
*gasp*"Hey they got..." *gasp* "So it was the stuff..." *gasp* "just need a minute..."

The gnome give a salute like wave and heads into a chair.

Loryn follows Stowe, with his head and attention at least, not physically and gives an out of breath sigh. "Not overly doing well at retaining the martial talent fellas" he says to no one in particular

Manolo (Michael A) -- AC 17/15/12 -- CMD 17 -- HP 12/13
Wednesday March 16th, 2022 5:26:40 PM
Manolo points to the liquid that was ingested.
'Maybe it will be helpful', Manolo thinks.

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 14/17 AC:19/19/15: CMD: 15. F:2; R: 6; W: 5.
Wednesday March 16th, 2022 6:30:38 PM
Torrynn really couldn't blame Stowe for leaving. Seriously, who would stay when all the help they could rely upon was Torryn's forgetfulness? Still, she wasn't going to press matters. It was Stowe's decision and hers alone. For her part, she felt that more than ever she wanted the advice of the elderly halfling.

"Um, if it's okay with everyone, I'm going to take a walk and go have a chat with Agratha."

Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 13/15
Wednesday March 16th, 2022 6:40:04 PM
"Nonsense" Ash says to himself. He follows up the stairs and knocks on Stowe's door. " Stowe, its ash. Lets chat for a second. "

Mole; (RichP) AC 18; HP 14/18; CMD 14
Wednesday March 16th, 2022 6:46:07 PM
"Don't take the blame for that one's stupidity, lass." He says unsympathetic. "This group is chalk full'o spellcasters. Someone was bound to figure something out about that paste without havin' ta poison yurself."

Stowe wanders off. "Gonna give up before ya start?" He says to Stowe. "Bravery is chargin' into the darkness ta help your friends, it's not trying ta look good by doing something dumb. You should stick around and learn the difference. The first one is a better look for ya, I'd bet."

Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.): ac13/13/10. hp15/15.
Wednesday March 16th, 2022 9:36:38 PM
Mortimer just blinks and attempts to reset to his default settings. After a short pause, he comes back to life. He realizes he got a little worked up from that poison scare. Self inflicted turns out. He's seen that before, too many times. People wanting to rush things and take their chances on the other side. They don't understand that strong, negative feelings, such as sorrow, gloom and hatred; you take that rubbish with you. Makes the soul like clay. Fresh meat for dark hands to mold.

A smile returns to his face as he gives Norma the usual warm greeting. "Ah, good to meet you Brother Maynard. What brings you to the Hamlet?" Mortimer takes notice his holy symbols. Looks like Norma has some competition, he thinks.

DM Steve -- *gasp* *gasp* *gasp*
Wednesday March 16th, 2022 10:30:16 PM
Torrynashkabbeth blames herself for Stowe’s condition. She could have looked for poison. She wants to go talk to her teacher.
Mole tells Torryn not to blame herself and tries to explain the difference between bravery and foolishness to Stowe.
Drack answers Brother Maynard.
Stowe staggers to her feet and goes to her room.
Loryn comes back later than Norma and Brother Maynard did, a bit out of breath.
Manolo points out what Stowe ingested.
Mortimer calms down. He greets the clerics and asks Brother Maynard why he’s in town.
Ash follows Stowe to talk with her.

When Torryn checked with her fey sight, all four vials of the black paste are poisonous.

While Ash tries to talk with Stowe upstairs, Norma and Brother Maynard talk with the others downstairs. Neither knows what the black stuff is, but Norma asks Minerva to get Trebor. While Minerva is gone, Maynard explains he is in town for his job. Like most priests of Domi, he actually makes his living from his profession. He’s looking at some horses in the area.

Minerva returns with Trebor, the local herbalist. Norma and Maynard ask him if he knows what the black substance is, explaining what happened to Stowe. After looking at it and carefully sniffing it, Trebor says it is a poison made from certain mushrooms that are found far underground. ”Where did you find it?” As for Stowe’s condition, ”If she ate it and threw up, she’ll be fine after a night’s rest. If she’d kept it down, she’d be sick for a few days. But it’s not deadly when eaten. Normally it’s smeared on a knife or a sword. A cut from such a weapon – well, that can be really bad.”

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 14/17 AC:19/19/15: CMD: 15. F:2; R: 6; W: 5.
Thursday March 17th, 2022 7:31:01 AM
Perhaps she should have stayed to answer questions, but Torryn felt that the others would provide far better and more detailed responses. She excused herself and set out to speak with Agratha. As well as seeking guidance regarding her own path and lack of focus, she could also ask about ways in which to tackle those pesky remaining Dark Fey and make herself slightly more useful.

Drack (Chris J) - hp 17/18 - AC 16
Thursday March 17th, 2022 9:15:10 AM
Drack introduces himself to brother Maynard.

"Brother Maynard, my name is Drack. It's a pleasure to meet you. It's odd that you are here. On our way back from fighting the gremlins, we heard a rider approaching, but he turned off the trail before he got to us. He was singing a song used by the church of Domi to inspire courage and valor. Have any other followers come to see you recently? I'm curious as to what he would be doing in the area, and if perhaps he needed help."

AC 13 HP 13/13 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K
Thursday March 17th, 2022 1:38:49 PM
Loryn catches his breath and hops over to Brother Maynard and Drack. He was thinking the likely answer is that it was a travelling companion of Brother Maynard they heard and that is just what the crazy clerics of Domi do. Certainly worth the ask though.

He answers the where'd it come from question. 'We tracked the gremlins to a small cave complex and found the vile stuff mixed in with the rest of the vileness of their den. There is still additional work we need to accomplish to rid ourselves of them, but for the short term, the danger posed by the creatures is past."

to the room in general, "Agatha has some skills, do you think she could brew a couple potions of Water Breathing we could purchase?"

Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 13/15
Thursday March 17th, 2022 6:18:07 PM
Ash still talked through the shut door. " Stowe, you can't beat yourself up over stuff like this. I once was studying so hard i passed out from lack of eating. I almost died cause they librarian left me there thinking i was reading. Imagine starving to death because you were too busy not eating. "

He waits a few moments before continuing. " Stowe, come down and hang out with the team. We'll all be joking about it in no time and you'll see it was no big deal".

Manolo (Michael A) -- AC 17/15/12 -- CMD 17 -- HP 12/13
Thursday March 17th, 2022 7:18:27 PM
Manolo breathes a sigh of relief and thinks and says for a moment "Oh, Thanks Domi , for saving this foolish but courageous soul".
'and I am foolish as well, maybe we should have dealt with it with more safe scrutiny', he thinks.

Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.): ac13/13/10. hp15/15.
Thursday March 17th, 2022 9:57:14 PM
“Thankfully my good luck seems to rub off on others,” he says with an impish smile.

DM Steve -- We'll all be joking about it in no time.
Thursday March 17th, 2022 10:32:51 PM
Torrynashkabbeth leaves to go find Agratha.
Manolo thanks Domi that things didn’t turn out worse.
Drack introduces himself to Brother Maynard and asks about the rider they heard singing earlier.
Ash talks to Stowe through the door, trying to convince her to rejoin the others.
Mortimer talks about being lucky.
Loryn explains where they found the poison. He asks if anyone knows if Agatha would be able to brew some potions of water breathing.
Stowe and Mole are quiet.

”Agatha? I’ve never heard of her doing anything like that,” Norma says. Trebor asks, ”What do you need potions for?”

Brother Maynard says he might be the rider they heard. He likes the hymns and inspirational stories. For all that he’s not a warrior, he likes to think he will stand up for what’s right if the need comes, and stand between those who can’t protect themselves and evil. ”Like it seems you have done.” But seeing that the emergency has passed, he’d best get back to business. As he leaves, he offers this blessing, ”May Domi watch over you as you have watched over others. A good example is the most sincere prayer you can make. I hope yours is answered.”

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 14/17 AC:19/19/15: CMD: 15. F:2; R: 6; W: 5.
Friday March 18th, 2022 5:47:18 AM
Torryn walked through the streets, headed to Agratha's humble domicile. The wind was gusting and tugged at her long hair. It dragged the scattered, reluctant clouds across the sky. She couldn't help but notice how beautiful the day was and that it was such a stark contrast to the evils perpetrated by the gremlins in the dead of night. Not that she thought the night was bad. There were beautiful nights: clear skies replete with stars, moths dancing in the moonlight, the song of nightingales. No, the dark wasn't bad in itself. It was simply used as a cloak for those that wished to hide their evil ways.
She sighed. Such ruminations were typical of her chaotic thought processes. One random glance could have her mind chasing 'rabbits' down any number of strange and unrelated rabbit holes. Contrariwise, Mole seemed focused. Nothing seemed to distract the dwarf. Drack seemed equally capable of focused action. Still, Morty was a little distant and distracted at times. That was some solace. She wasn't the only one!
Time passed quickly as her mind danced around various topics; all loosely related to her own lack of focus. Consequently, she arrived at Agratha's door sooner than she expected. She didn't knock, expecting that the halfling would, as usual, be out in her small yard, gardening, meditating or practicing.

Mole; (RichP) AC 18; HP 14/18; CMD 14
Friday March 18th, 2022 8:24:40 AM
Mole watches Maynard. A clergyman he thought. Over zealous to the point of being obnoxious most of the time; Mole avoided them.

"That's done. I'm gonna finish eating." He says going over to his table.

Eating, he keeps a casual eye on the priest. They always wanted to get in a heated discussion with him when they discovered what he was. As if any God could compare. Even the Gods in the heavens and the demons in hell stood on the ground, walked upon the earth; there was no being greater. Philosophical discussions were pointless with them.

Later in the day, Mole found himself wandering the area around town. There were many things he needed to look for. This group was a bunch of scrawny kids and he was not prepared. There was also the issue of the gremlins and those water creatures to deal with. He would need to find something to deal with those too. That cave was just too convenient. He would not let it pass.

Drack (Chris J) - hp 17/18 - AC 16
Friday March 18th, 2022 10:21:49 AM
Drack thanks Brother Maynard for the blessing, and at the end of the evening, does as Brother Maynard suggested, praying a heartfelt prayer alone in his room to Domi. Drack prays for the strength and the courage to continue protecting the innocent, the wisdom to know when to fight, and when to make peace, and the ability to help all those that need help.

Manolo (Michael A) -- AC 17/15/12 -- CMD 17 -- HP 12/13
Friday March 18th, 2022 11:02:09 AM
Manolo accepts the priest's prayer.
He asks the group about the potions/vials.
"I might need one or two", he says.

"Poison might work against the gremlins", he adds.

AC 13 HP 13/13 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K
Friday March 18th, 2022 12:36:10 PM
"Too bad." is Loryn's response on hearing Agatha probably could not craft the water breathing potions. The group would need a different route. Idly he answers even as he is thinking,
"There are some water critters in the cave. Content to remain where they are perhaps, but maybe not and as drowning is bad for you. really even worse than explosions and you know those can really be tough to live with. My cousin, couple times removed, of course, well he kinda exploded. Incident with some alchemical thing or what not that he was messing with. Pretty sure I recall my uncle had cautioned him on such things, but listening to others was not exactly his strong suit. Come to think of it, Uncle Tubror was often giving others advise on what they should, or how they should, more often than not, be doing whatever it was they were doing...."

Loryn suddenly pauses and looks about at the blank faces, "I went off on unrelated tangents again didn't I?"

"Short answer long, the water gremlins can put you to sleep and we are working on a defense to prevent drowning should that happen."

Loryn wishes Brother Maynard good day and settles in near Mole to have some lunch. "It might Manolo, just be carefule with the stuff.

"We need to get the sword back to Grog, so if everyone could refrain from wandering off that'd be great.

If/When ethe group gets back together, Loryn hands the Large sword to Drack and gets the crew walking to Grog's

Drack (Chris J) - hp 17/18 - AC 16
Friday March 18th, 2022 1:34:49 PM
Drack will take the sword from Loryn and agree that we should return it before continuing.

“Guys, we also need to find the catacombs, and sell the stuff we found, and perhaps buy some other stuff.”

Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.): ac13/13/10. hp15/15.
Friday March 18th, 2022 3:14:16 PM
Mortimer chimes in with a more conventional proposal. "Why not just throw fishin' nets on the buggers and pluck them from the water. No one need get wet!"

Looking back at Grog's sword, "I think we should deliver Grog his blade. Best do it before it gets pinched ... AGAIN! I've gone to sleep with stolen shoes, only to wake up with bare feet."

Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 13/15
Friday March 18th, 2022 5:33:24 PM
Ash goes to knock again, but realizing he might be aggravating her, he refrains and instead heads downstairs to sit with the kthers others.

DM Steve -- I'm gonna finish eating.
Friday March 18th, 2022 10:37:50 PM
Manolo asks about the vials, and notes that they might poison the gremlins.
Mole avoids Maynard, not wanting to get into a debate. Then he wanders the town, figuring out what should be done.
Mortimer suggests trying to use fishing nets to catch the water gremlins. He agrees with returning Grog’s sword.
Ash thinks about knocking again, but decides to let Stowe rest.
Drack thanks Brother Maynard for the blessing, and prays for strength, courage, and wisdom. He agrees with Loryn that it’s time to return the sword.
Loryn explains why he wanted the water breathing potions, and worries about the water gremlins. He tells Monolo to be careful with the poison. He also thinks they should get the sword back to Grog, and tries to get everyone headed that direction.
Torrynashkabbeth arrives at Agratha’s lost in thought.
Stowe stays in her room.

The group heads to Grog’s Happy Half-Ogre Tavern and Inn – except for Torryn, who is looking for her mentor, and Stowe, who needs the rest. When he sees them and that they are carrying Heroe’s Fortune, Grog is overjoyed. He welcomes them in, offers drinks on the house, and is just overwhelmingly grateful, almost to the point of tears. He offers them 2000 gp as a reward for its recovery. Everyone else in the place is also thankful, seeing that they got drinks on the house. The group is asked to tell the story of how they found the sword. It is evening before the group breaks away from their well-wishers.

Torryn finds Agratha doing some chores out back. Agratha takes one look at Torryn and puts her to work. Only once Torryn is busy and concentrating on the chore does Agratha ask how things are going. Agratha works Torryn hard, and it is evening before Torryn returns to town.

They gather again at Minerva's, which is calm after the afternoon. As the day turns to gloom, it strikes them that Drack is practically glowing -- literally. It's not bright, it's not ghostly, and it is more noticeable in one spot of the boarding house common room, where he was praying earlier.

Mole; (RichP) AC 18; HP 14/18; CMD 14 d20+8=20 ;
Saturday March 19th, 2022 10:49:36 AM
Still at the tavern -

"Poison might work against the gremlins" he hears Manolo say. Mole's knowledge of fey immediately comes to mind as he seeks to answer the basic question. "I'd agree with Loryn. I'm pretty sure poison'll work on fey."

"Hold on lad." he says to Drack. "Before you sell off the whole lot, all of you that can need to upgrade you protections- better armor, shields and the like."

Natural Knowledge DC20

Mole; (RichP) AC 18; HP 19/19; CMD 14
Saturday March 19th, 2022 3:20:45 PM
Mole continues...

"I can help with some wounds, but I an not a healer in the traditional sense. So, when ya go off on your spendin' spree, keep that in mind. Look for armor so we're not relying so much on healing magics." He say not trying to be preachy know full we that what it sounds like.

Later -

That's a neat party trick. he thinks as he notices the glowing fighter in the corner of the room.

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 14/17 AC:19/19/15: CMD: 15. F:2; R: 6; W: 5.
Saturday March 19th, 2022 8:01:37 PM
Torryn returned later that evening. She'd missed Drack's glowing episode.

"Sorry I'm late.". She said in her usual quiet tones. "
"Did I miss anything?"

In truth she was a little distracted still. There was much for her to contemplate.

AC 13 HP 13/13 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K
Sunday March 20th, 2022 12:45:17 PM
Loryn agrees with Mole on the booty from the gremlins. "Get more from it by taking something as a share then selling low and buying high"

Loryn thanks Grog for his generosity. 2k divided 7 ways with the extra kicked back to the town is Loryn's thought. 285gp each.
Then top it off with free drinks, though not the gnome's inclination, a mighty fine reward indeed. Especially as, to his eye, they were doing the right and just thing anyway.

Back at Minerva's, Loryn takes in Dracks new 'look' and nods approvingly. 'It would seem the prayers of Brother Maynerd can go a long way if one is open to change and new ideas.

Mole's right, "no one should be thinking his druidic magic will stave off all injuries we may encounter. Be a wise move to secure healing at about every chance we can.

"Nice one Mortimer, fishing nets and drag 'em out. I kinda dosed off when we first found 'em, do we think they were close enough to shore to pull that off. I'm in to try."

Could we get a repost of all loot to divide/sell

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 14/17 AC:19/19/15: CMD: 15. F:2; R: 6; W: 5.
Sunday March 20th, 2022 6:40:40 PM
Catching the end of Loryn's conversation Torryn chimed in.

"You know we Fey are sort of immune to that sleepy-time magic stuff. So if anyone gets clobbered with a snooze spell, I can wake them up." It felt good to be useful. The nets sounded a good notion and with her immunity to sleep, they might be able to pull the creatures out of the water - unless they could change INTO water. Could they do that or was that another creature entirely? There were so many stories around.

Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.): ac13/13/10. hp15/15.
Sunday March 20th, 2022 8:03:19 PM
60 Platinum Pieces 600g
Fire Elemental Ring Fate Item
Pearl Comb 200g
Masterwork Dagger 302g
20 Masterwork Arrows 120g
10 Masterwork Crossbow Bolts 60g
Cold Iron Dagger 4g
20 Cold Iron Sling Bullets 2 silver
Gunk-encrusted Breastplate Armor 200g
Gems (4) 100g each
1st Set of Nest Baubles & Trinkets (Gremlin Nest Loot) 500g
2nd Set of Nest Baubles & Trinkets 300g
Kukri (Size Small) 8g
Grog’s Short Sword 2,000g Reward
Vials of Black Paste (4) (Poison) ?? DM edit: 150 gp each if a buyer can be found
Masterwork Thieves Tools 100g
Masterwork Field Cooking Kit (Artisan tool) 55g
Masterwork Finger Cymbals (Instrument) 100g
Hand Crossbow 100g
Sunrods (3) 2gp each
Antitoxins (2) 50g each
Smokesticks (5) 2g each
Tindertwigs 1gp each
MW Warhammer 312g
MW Composite Longbow (+2 Str.) 600g
Breastplate Armor 200g
Chain Shirt 100g
Splint Mail Armor 200g
Half-Plate Armor 600g

A Complete list of Party Treasure is on my character sheet. Just click Mortimer's name and scroll down.

Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.): ac13/13/10. hp15/15.
Sunday March 20th, 2022 8:20:17 PM
I couldn't remember if the other cold iron weapons (only the dagger and bullets are listed) were on loan or freely donated for our service. Cold iron doesn't add much to the value of the weapon, just x2 normal price. So that cold iron dagger is worth a massive 4 gold!

Drack (Chris J) - hp 17/18 - AC 16
Monday March 21st, 2022 9:23:46 AM
(I will hold off on commenting about Dracks glow until I get an email response from DM.)

While at Grog's, Drack will ask him if he knows of an entrance to the catacombs near by.

"I guess I will take the Breastplate armor. I will put my chain shirt back in the pot to sell. I like to use my weapon with two hands, so I will pass on a shield, at least for now. I could probably make good use of the MW composite longbow as well. Once we sell, should we try and buy a healing wand? That would alleviate a lot of burden from Mole."

Manolo (Michael A) -- AC 17/15/12 -- CMD 17 -- HP 12/13
Monday March 21st, 2022 2:13:37 PM
OOC: I want to keep the Iron Dagger if no one wants/needs it...it is also no expensive (:

Manolo (Michael A) -- AC 17/15/12 -- CMD 17 -- HP 12/13
Monday March 21st, 2022 2:14:35 PM
Manolo drinks a little bit, happy for the reward and for the short respite from the dangers they were dealing with.

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 14/17 AC:19/19/15: CMD: 15. F:2; R: 6; W: 5.
Monday March 21st, 2022 6:47:51 PM
Torryn is happy to keep her Cold Iron headed spear. (Dependent on when we level, she may ask to use the bow. If levelling is still a way off, she'll definitely not even mention it to Drack.)

Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.): ac13/13/10. hp15/15. d20+3=19 ;
Monday March 21st, 2022 9:22:02 PM
(ooc: During the first year, you're supposed to level every four months. Thereafter, you level twice a year.)

Mortimer wouldn't mind having a chain shirt, but one made from a lighter, finer metal. These chain shirts feel too heavy and restrictive. They would probably interfere with his casting, he thinks. He doesn't know why he knows that ... it just makes sense.

Noticing Manolo eyeing the cold iron dagger on his belt, Mortimer unsheathes it with a flourish (Dex Check: 19), gives it a flip into the air. As it twirls back down, he catches it by the blunt edge of the blade. He then offers it to the rogue, "Here ya go. I hope it serves ya better than it did me. There's also a masterwork dagger over here."

Mole; (RichP) AC 18; HP 19/19; CMD 14
Monday March 21st, 2022 11:36:24 PM
Mole looks over the items the group has collected. "I think the only thing I can use is the warhammer. The ring is interesting, but if it was only a earth elemental ring."

"I was already considering a wand." He says to Drack.

DM Steve -- Did I miss anything?
Monday March 21st, 2022 11:40:25 PM
OOC: See email about leveling.

The group considers the items they found and their next actions. Mole worries about the protections they should invest in. Loryn helps divide the spoils and says he may be willing to try fishing nets on the water gremlins. Torryn chimes in that she's not going to be put to sleep and can help anyone who is. Mortimer itemizes the loot, and points out the cold iron weapons as well. Drack agrees with advice to take the usefull items from the stash and use them, rather than losing value by selling them. Manolo is happy for the respite. Ash is quiet. Stowe does not join the conversation.

When Drack asks, Grog says that there used to be a door to the Catacombs at the Keep. "It might not look like it now, but back in the day Windhorn was quite the adventurer's destination. I don't know if anyone has used it for a decade or more, but that door's a magic portal -- it'll still be there."

Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 13/15
Monday March 21st, 2022 11:48:39 PM
Ash looks over the items, but nothing catches his eye. His share will be well spent at the catacombs instead.

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 14/17 AC:19/19/15: CMD: 15. F:2; R: 6; W: 5.
Tuesday March 22nd, 2022 6:19:24 AM
"I think we should definitely go back and sort out those nasty water gremmies." Torryn urged. They'd all seen first hand just how ruthless and nasty the gremlins could be. There was no doubt in her mind that those lurking in the pool were no different.

Torryn will also confirm that she wishes to keep the finger cymbals. Not only do they aid her dance performances, but also assist in her meditation. The simple purity of the note helps to cut through the jumbled clutter of her mind.

Drack (Chris J) - hp 30/30 - AC 16
Tuesday March 22nd, 2022 9:16:53 AM
Header adjustment for 3rd level

Drack (Chris J) - hp 30/30 - AC 16
Tuesday March 22nd, 2022 9:39:25 AM
Drack, now seems to have a more radiant personality and Charisma. He let's the group know what has happened. "It appears I am changed. After following brother Maynard's advice, and praying to Domi, he chose me to become one of his warriors. He chose me to continue to protect those that need protecting and destroy the evil that would harm them.

Drack looks at the loot. "It looks like we have some weaponry and stuff. I think we should keep the sunrods and antitoxin as group goods. Torry, it looks like we are down a fighter, and you may need to help fill that role. Why don't you take the MW composite longbow. It is going to have a really hard pull, so I'm not sure if you have the strength to make full use of it, but if you want it, it's yours. If not, i'll take it. For the purposes of the group though, it might be better to sell it and buy a healing wand with the proceeds, I'll let the smart people figure that out and make the call."

"As soon as we figure out what we are keeping and selling, we should go with Mortimer to find the entrance to the catacombs. There is a door at the keep. I'm not sure how difficult it will be to find. After he sells stuff, we can see what we have left to prepare for the water gremlins."

Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.): ac13/13/10. hp15/15.
Tuesday March 22nd, 2022 10:25:23 AM
"I hear Wand-Mart has an Ides of March Madness Sale. All daggers are half off." :)

AC 13 HP 19/19 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K
Tuesday March 22nd, 2022 11:52:22 AM
Loryn already has the Fire Elemental ring in his pocket. He takes it back out, "I'm still wanting to hold on to this. Give it some more study time. I agree with Drack, we should keep the Anti Toxins, smokestick and Sunrods."

Loryn already owns a MW set of cooking and chef wares and does not need another set.

"We make a supply run and then back after those water gremlins, Torry. Right there with you. On the wand, Not sure this is going to fund that, unless everyone forgoes their share and given our lack of healing capability thorough spell, I think is the right move. "

Buy wand of CLW for 1500. Subtract that right off of the top of our funds and then divide by 7

Drack (Chris J) - hp 30/30 - AC 16
Tuesday March 22nd, 2022 12:58:41 PM
(I’m thinking if a take the breast plate and throw in my chain shirt, I’ll owe the kitty 50 gold out of my take. We could sell the breastplate for 100, and can sell the chain shirt for 50. Glad Mortimer volunteered to be the mathematician. I did it in my last campaign. Takes a lot of figuring)

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 18/21 AC:19/19/15: CMD: 16. F:4; R: 6; W: 6
Tuesday March 22nd, 2022 1:27:10 PM
Torryn was perfectly happy to donate whatever funds were necessary. She'd give Drack fifty of her gold and throw in more to buy the healing wand as necessary. She didn't need much money really. Well, that was what Agratha said and it was hard to argue with the halfling. The main thing was that she had a patron for her 'Dance' - two actually, so she was going to have up her performance.

OOC: The bow is not listed a s Mighty Composite Long bow, so Torryn ought to be able to use it without too much trouble.

"I'd be honoured to support you in the fighting role!" She replied with a beaming smile. It would be good to be useful. Plus Agratha had been encouraging her to use her innate speed to better place her blows. It all took time to embed those skills, but she finally felt that she was improving.

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 18/21 AC:20/20/16: CMD: 16. F:4; R: 6; W: 6
Tuesday March 22nd, 2022 2:01:59 PM
OOC: Adjusted the header. Got the AC wrong......there may be other mistakes....

Drack (Chris J) - hp 30/30 - AC 16
Tuesday March 22nd, 2022 3:40:05 PM
(Bow was listed as a MW composite longbow +2 str. The hand crossbow was not. At least according to Mortimer’s list)

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 18/21 AC:20/20/16: CMD: 16. F:4; R: 6; W: 6
Tuesday March 22nd, 2022 5:54:33 PM
OOC: Thanks. No longbow for Torryn then.

Manolo (Michael A) -- AC 17/15/12 -- CMD 17 -- HP 12/13
Tuesday March 22nd, 2022 8:04:54 PM
Manolo still relaxes a bit more and thinks about the the future....

Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 13/15
Tuesday March 22nd, 2022 8:51:13 PM
" I'm in on heading back to the cave. A better preparation of spells will definitely make it easier too."

Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.): ac13/13/10. hp15/15.
Tuesday March 22nd, 2022 9:52:05 PM
Mortimer is doing his best to estimate the value of their treasure. He's resorting to counting on his fingers and toes. He wasn't talented at cyphering numbers. They always posed a special threat to him. He always relied on luck. What he was excellent at was seeing patterns in the most complex shapes, objects and in the habits and movement of others. However, that particular talent, in this case, didn't really apply.

"Totally certain, I'm NOT, but we may be able to pool our money and purchase a healing wand, but not much else. There's not even enough here to pay my WLA dues. They're not going to take my all my stuff when they come to collect; will they?"

Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.): ac13/13/10. hp21/21.
Tuesday March 22nd, 2022 9:53:56 PM
(occ: Changing my hit point totals.)

DM Steve -- We make a supply run and then back after those water gremlins
Tuesday March 22nd, 2022 11:11:17 PM

Torryn wants to go finish clearing out the caves. She would like to keep the finger cymbals. If necessary, she will donate to help the group, and take on the secondary combatant role.
Mole is quiet.
Ash does not want any of the stuff they collected. He would like to change spells before they go back to the cave.
Drack has changed somehow, more confident and self-assured. He explains that Domi answered his prayer. He makes some suggestions on loot distribution.
Loryn hangs onto the elemental ring. He agrees they should gear up first, then go back to the cave. He isn't sure they can afford a wand.
Manolo relaxes.
Mortimer tries to estimate how much they have to spend, but isn't sure he got it right.

The elemental ring is a bit of a problem, considering what happened the last time it was used. Also, you have heard the Catacombs will not purchase (or sell) poisons. While the rest will likely not allow any one of the group to buy a wand, the group as a whole could probably afford it.

Drack (Chris J) - hp 30/30 - AC 16
Wednesday March 23rd, 2022 10:03:11 AM
Drack tries to assist Mortimer in treasure planning.

(ooc: I'm coming up with some slightly different totals. Assuming we return all cold iron to the town as requested, I took that off the books. Also assuming that we don't sell the poison or fire elemental ring, at least not now, nor the sunrods, antitoxin, and smokesticks. the rest will stay in the to sell pile. Also, If we don't sell the breastplate in exchange for Dracks chain shirt, he will owe the kitty 50. if we don't sell the cymbals, Torry will owe the kitty 50. I'm not sure if we will only get half value for the baubles and trinkets, or the pearl comb, so i calculated for 1/2 value on those. so if we sell everything else for half value except the gems, GP, and PP, that will leave us 1,979. If we add full value of PP, GP, gems, and the 50 that Drack and Torry will owe, it comes to 5,079. That would give us 3,000 for the wand and 297 gold apiece. Perhaps the DM could clarify if we can get full value for the gems, trinkets and baubles, and pearl comb.)

Drack (Chris J) - hp 30/30 - AC 16
Wednesday March 23rd, 2022 5:31:00 PM
(Correction: it appears a wand of clw is 750. That would raise the individual take after getting the wand to 618.42gp)

Manolo (Michael A) -- AC 17/15/12 -- CMD 17 -- HP 12/13
Wednesday March 23rd, 2022 8:24:33 PM
Manolo volunteers to keep the poisons potions/flasks if no one wants any of them.

Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.): ac13/13/10. hp21/21.
Wednesday March 23rd, 2022 9:47:28 PM
Mortimer breathes a sigh of relief when Drack begins to help him. He tries his best to follow everything Drack does, but falls short at keep up. The holy warrior seems to be a natural at cypherin' and figurin' numbers ... like he's been doing it all the time.

"Show me something I can help with," he asks eagerly. "That gold piece with the inverted mint stamp is actually worth 100gp to collectors."

AC 13 HP 19/19 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K d20+6=12
Wednesday March 23rd, 2022 9:48:36 PM
Loryn is feeling excited to go back and finish things in the cave. He does, though have little to contribute. “I can enhance our weapons making them magical and as soon as Tory, Drack or Mole get a net pulled in, I can Color Spray ‘em”

Loryn also assists with appraising some of h the e trinkets
Appraise 12

Buy wand of CLW for 1500. Subtract that right off of the top of our funds and then divide by 7. CLW wand costs 750 to craft, purchasing one is 1500

Drack (Chris J) - hp 30/30 - AC 16
Wednesday March 23rd, 2022 10:07:43 PM
(Thanks Dan, woldipedia was a little vague. Either way the group should still get some cash after the fact)

Mole; (RichP) AC 18; HP 30/30; CMD 15
Wednesday March 23rd, 2022 10:24:35 PM
Mole watches the others gather and discuss their haul. Coin was not much of a concern for him. To Mole getting the kids better equipped was more important.

DM Steve -- We make a supply run and then back after those water gremlins
Wednesday March 23rd, 2022 10:33:28 PM
Money and gems/jewelry are both accepted as mediums of exchange as far as I can tell. The following do not need to be sold in the Catacombs, you can exchange them for their monetary equivalent:
60 Platinum Pieces 600g
Pearl Comb 200g
Gems (4) 100g each (4 × 100 = 400)
1st Set of Nest Baubles & Trinkets (Gremlin Nest Loot) 500g
2nd Set of Nest Baubles & Trinkets 300g
2,000g Reward
(4,000 gp total money-equivalent)

The following are not typical mediums of exchange, and are subject to the restocking fee:
Masterwork Dagger 302g
20 Masterwork Arrows 120g
10 Masterwork Crossbow Bolts 60g
Cold Iron Dagger 4g -- not in the total below
20 Cold Iron Sling Bullets 2 silver -- not in the total below
Gunk-encrusted Breastplate Armor 200g
Kukri (Size Small) 8g
Masterwork Thieves Tools 100g
Masterwork Field Cooking Kit (Artisan tool) 55g
Masterwork Finger Cymbals (Instrument) 100g
Hand Crossbow 100g
Sunrods (3) 2gp each = 6 gp
Antitoxins (2) 50g each = 100 gp
Smokesticks (5) 2g each = 10 gp
Tindertwigs (10) 1gp each = 10 gp
MW Warhammer 312g
MW Composite Longbow (+2 Str.) 600g
Breastplate Armor 200g
Chain Shirt 100g
Splint Mail Armor 200g
Half-Plate Armor 600g
(Up to 3,183 gp value, depending on what people keep, prior to restocking fee)

The following cannot be exchanged in the Catacombs:
Fire Elemental Ring (Fate Item)
Vials of Black Paste (4) (Poison) ?? DM edit: 150 gp each if a buyer can be found

Some previously found items are not identified because they have already been claimed.
=====

The group continues planning to best equip themselves and talking strategy for their next foray.

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 18/21 AC:20/20/16: CMD: 16. F:4; R: 6; W: 6
Thursday March 24th, 2022 6:54:21 AM
All the talk of money and equipment did little to hold Torryn's attention. She was a dancer. What need had a dancer of such things? She felt that this was particularly try now that she'd been selected to become a Sacred Dancer of Eberyon and Flower. That was probably underplaying Kevintar's hand too.

Her magic tied her to the Fey and as such it made perfect sense to have Eberyon's patronage. Given the damage that the Dark Fey had done to Woldian relations, she would be his envoy for the Light. And what better light than the light of dance?

Her martial training was linked inextricably to Kevintar. She needed his help to bring order to her disordered thoughts and impulsive nature and to gain better understanding of who she was and what she could do. From him she could learn. That was most definitely worthy of respect.

Last and not least was Flower: the goddess of the arts and what better art than the art of dance? As with Eberyon, Torryn would venerate Flower through her dance and bring such light to people's hearts that there would be no room for darkness. That was the plan anyway. It was ambitious, but Torryn liked that it reflected her multifaceted nature and allowed for growth in different directions whilst still being true to herself and her dance.

All these thoughts of dance made her realise that she needed to practice.

"I'm going back to see Agratha. I need to practice. You know where to find me." She told the others and waving cheerily, made her exit.

Drack (Chris J) - hp 30/30 - AC 16
Thursday March 24th, 2022 9:32:08 AM
Drack talks with Mortimer, and they decide to split the work. Mortimer is going to keep a tally of what we have found, then Drack will see what everyone wants and take the rest to the catacombs for sale.

"So from what I'm understanding now everyone, is that we aren't going to sell the fire elemental ring, poison, sunrods, antitoxins, or smokesticks. And we are also aren't selling the breastplate or symbols that I and Torry have claimed. If no one else wants it, I will also claim the MW composite longbow, and take that out of my cut. Does anyone else want anything? If not, I will head over to the catacombs shortly and sell the remainder, and buy a wand of CLW for the group with the proceeds."

Manolo (Michael A) -- AC 17/15/12 -- CMD 17 -- HP 12/13
Thursday March 24th, 2022 12:23:53 PM
Manolo goes to drink more tea.

Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 13/15
Thursday March 24th, 2022 5:33:31 PM
Ash hangs back at the inn, getting his spells ready for heading back to the cave.

Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.): ac13/13/10. hp21/21.
Thursday March 24th, 2022 9:56:51 PM
After a while, Mortimer decides to take a break. After getting a pint of his favorite spirits, he relaxes back in the big, wingback chair next to the fire. All else grows dim and fades away. As he gives himself over to the darkness, there is a tiny. red, candle light in the distance. It grows the closer it gets. A familiar voice urges him to take one more step!

Mole; (RichP) AC 18; HP 30/30; CMD 15
Thursday March 24th, 2022 10:36:32 PM
"I'll take the warhammer." He says to Drack.

"Before we head out for anymore adventures, I think we need a good dwarven feast. Lots and lots of drink. Then we share tales of our glories, our goals, our dreams."

DM Steve -- I think we need a good dwarven feast.
Friday March 25th, 2022 12:42:31 AM
Torryn finds the financial talk tedious. She considers which of the gods she is endebted to and goes to find Agratha and practice.
Drack volunteers to exchange their findings at the Catacombs.
Manolo drinks some tea.
Ash prepares spells for a return to thr cave.
Mortimer feels the urge to take one more step.
Mole proposes a dwarven feast before they head out again.
Loryn is quiet, but has already voiced his opinions about treasure and next steps.

Torryn is able to find Agratha readily, and as readily gets put to work.

When Drack goes looking for the door to the Catacombs, quite possibly with help to carry things, at first he has no luck. After asking, and having the people he asked ask others, eventually someone realizes that it's now in a storeroom -- or rather, that the small vestibule the door sits in has been turned into a storage closet. From there it's not much work to clear a path, open the inner door, and see the portal is still there.

The rest of the group prepares in their own ways. There are a few venues in town that could host a feast.

Drack (Chris J) - hp 30/30 - AC 16
Friday March 25th, 2022 8:18:33 AM
(I posted to catacombs on thursday morning, still no response.)

Drack hands Mole the warhammer, and Torry the cymbals, and he takes the breastplate and composite longbow. He packs up the rest, and with a little help carrying it, heads off to the catacombs. After a little while of figuring out where the door is, he finds it and enters. He reminds himself to let everyone else know, so that it will be a little quicker for them.

Drack (Chris J) - hp 30/30 - AC 17
Friday March 25th, 2022 8:35:11 AM
(header adjustment)

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 18/21 AC:20/20/16: CMD: 16. F:4; R: 6; W: 6
Friday March 25th, 2022 9:03:14 AM
Torryn applied herself to her dance and working with the tiny cymbals. perhaps she should have given more thought to the upcoming encounter with the water gremlins, but the joy of the dance filled her and she lost herself to it. There'd be time enough for serious preparation later.

AC 13 HP 19/19 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K d20+9=28 ;
Friday March 25th, 2022 10:50:56 AM
Loryn is perfectly happy puttering around Minerva's and tampering with various recipes in the kitchen. Of particular interest is the culinary world of duck and wild herbs. If he was to be a hero of the realms or even of just the lands about Bearclaw, it would be nice to be able to eat more than conjure food or what one could carry in hard tack and dried food stuffs
Profession Chef 28

"Manolo and Torry, Here try this and tell me what you think."

PC updated to 3rd

Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 23/23
Friday March 25th, 2022 11:07:24 AM
Ash finishes studying up his spells, and heads down to the tap room for food. If anything in Minerva's is needed to be helped with, he'll do his best to assist otherwise he hangs around and relaxes, waiting for the others.

0- Level
Light, Detect Magic, read Magic, Message
1- Level
Magic Missle x3, Sleep
2- Level
Acid Arrowx2

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 18/21 AC:20/20/16: CMD: 16. F:4; R: 6; W: 6
Friday March 25th, 2022 4:48:09 PM
Torryn returned to be greeted by the tantalising smell of herby duck. At Loryn's offer she smiled delightedly, needing no second invitation.

"That's very kind of you, Loryn. It smells delicious." She enthused. After the first mouthful, she nodded appreciatively to confirm that it was indeed as good as it smelled.

Manolo (Michael A) -- AC 17/15/12 -- CMD 17 -- HP 12/13 d20+6=10 ; d20=20 ;
Friday March 25th, 2022 7:02:22 PM
Manolo tries to smell the food, trying to appreciate every detail and love that was poured into making the dish even although his nose got a a little bit stuffed..
He takes a bite and smiles with each second the passes he literally gobbles up the food.
Only pausing eating to ask for seconds.
Saying to Loryn "Seconds please, this duck is delicious".
After eating he says with a smile, "Loyrn, you can open a tavern of your own and no one will ever be hungry...this food makes me happy !"

Perception 10
Appraise 20

Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.): ac13/13/10. hp21/21.
Friday March 25th, 2022 10:15:49 PM
Mortimer wakes from his sleep with a headache. He had slumped fairly deep in the wingback chair during his slumber. The fire had died down to a few glowing embers. After a yawn and stretch, he mutters (in Draconic), "Svanoa drong tepoha si coanwor asleep?" He then smells a delightful scent from the kitchen, "Kwi, svabol smells bensvelk!" He suddenly goes still after hearing the words that came from his mouth. The sudden shock of both hearing it and understanding it for the first time. "Bloody hells, it happened again!"

As he tracks the scent back to Minerva's kitchen, he begins to hear several of his gang talking amongst themselves. "Am I in time ta kiss the cook, what's for dinner?" Once he sees the duck that everyone has picked at, he inquires, "That ducky dish looks brilliant, but I'm afraid only one duck will arouse my appetite without bedding it down."

DM Steve -- Seconds please, this duck is delicious
Friday March 25th, 2022 11:03:03 PM
Torryn practices using the cymbals while dancing. She returns in time for Loryn's dinner, and finds it delicious.
Drack hands Mole the warhammer, and Torry the cymbals, and he takes the breastplate and composite longbow. He packs up the rest, and with a little help carrying it, heads off to the catacombs.
Manolo sniffs around while Loryn is cooking and dives in when it's done. He declares Loryn should have his own restaurant.
Ash finishes studying and heads down to hang out or help where he can.
Mortimer wakes with a headache, speaking draconic. When he comes down and smells the food he (unwittingly) offers Loryn a kiss.
Loryn sets to work in Minerva's kitchen, and creates a meals featuring duck with wild herbs and worthy of being called a feast.
Mole is quiet.

Loryn's dinner is a feast, although perhaps not dwarven. Drack mentions that the Catacombs transaction will take a little time. With Loryn occupying her kitchen, Minerva hangs up a sign saying the place is closed, and goes to attend to some business. This would be the time to share tales of glories, goals, and dreams.

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 18/21 AC:20/20/16: CMD: 16. F:4; R: 6; W: 6
Saturday March 26th, 2022 3:46:20 AM
"You're a great cook, Loryn. Just look at the smiling faces to confirm that. I'm no cook, but I can dance and I can bring joy with that dance. Did you know I won Best Dancer at the Harvest Festival here? Three years in a row.". Torryn grinned with pride. It was one thing to be the best in a village, but she intended to become a lot better than that. Now that she had a patron, she'd have to put in some serious practice.

Drack (Chris J) - hp 30/30 - AC 17
Monday March 28th, 2022 7:56:35 AM
Drack is still gone to the catacombs, but hoping he doesn't miss anything important in his absence.

AC 13 HP 19/19 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K
Monday March 28th, 2022 1:09:00 PM
The gnome beams as his dish comes off how he had hoped it would and with the praise of his new friends. "That you do my friend" Loryn answers Torry.

"Glad that experiment was such a hit, now to try and remember and jot down just what it is that I did." Loryn heads back into the kitchen with quill and book, mumbling to himself about how his uncle would have one of his cousins follow him around and write stuff down as he did it. this thought seems to waterfall into multiple additional tangents which remove the gnomes mind further and further from the task at which he originally set out. It would be an interesting recipe to read indeed by the time his wandering mind is done

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 18/21 AC:20/20/16: CMD: 16. F:4; R: 6; W: 6
Monday March 28th, 2022 1:15:26 PM
Torryn's mind could wander with the best of them. However, she rarely wrote anything down; so recording the full extent of her chaotic musings was never going happen and that, she felt, was a very good thing indeed. In truth, Torryn relished the freedom to flit freely from one topic to the next. She felt that only via such unconstrained thinking could her creativity thrive and what dancer did not value creativity? Still, her studies with Agratha had enlightened her as to the benefits of structured learning, of focused dedication and even meditation. The latter was not as easy as it sounded. Well, not for Torryn, anyway.

Drack (Chris J) - hp 30/30 - AC 17
Monday March 28th, 2022 1:26:00 PM
Drack returns to the others from the catacombs, and breaks down the haul for them. "These calculations are assuming Stowe is gone, and not collecting her share, Drack hands out the divided take. Everyone but Mole, Torry, and I get 797.33gp. Mole gets 641.33 after subtracting the sale value of the warhammer. Torry gets 747.33 after subtracting the sale value of the symbols. I get 484.33 after subtracting the breastplate and the bow, and then adding the sale of my old chainshirt and bow

Drack (Chris J) - hp 30/30 - AC 17 d6=6 ;
Monday March 28th, 2022 1:41:38 PM
"Now that we have some money folks, should we buy things from the catacombs to deal with the water gremlins? I already picked up the new bow and the armor, so I may hold off on anything for now unless someone has some brilliant ideas"

"Oh, almost forgot." Drack hands Mole the wand of cure light wounds. "That should help us all, and save your spells for other things."

Drack looks around and sees that Torry is still injured. "Here Torry, allow me to try and assist with your wounds." Drack reaches over and puts his hand on her shoulder. Drack feels the power of Domi flow through him, and into Torry, healing her for 6 hp.

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 21/21 AC:20/20/16: CMD: 16. F:4; R: 6; W: 6
Monday March 28th, 2022 5:48:51 PM
"Oh, thank you Dracky. That's...amazing." Beamed Torryn. She stood and stretched and flexed. Her arms windmilled backwards in graceful arcs. Her back arched and then she elegantly extended a shapely leg, before coming to a sudden halt - just when it seemed that she might flow into a dance.
"Hmm, I feel marvellous. My thanks to you and to kind Domi." She placed a fist against a palm and gave a short bow of respect before straightening and rather spoilng the solemnity of the moment by grinning broadly in her typical, impish fashion.

Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 23/23
Monday March 28th, 2022 7:16:35 PM
" Thank you Drack" Ash says, when he recieves his payment. That was it... the moment he was paid to be an adventurer. Life was good.

0- Level
Light, Detect Magic, read Magic, Message
1- Level
Magic Missle x3, Sleep
2- Level
Acid Arrowx2

Manolo (Michael A) -- AC 17/15/12 -- CMD 17 -- HP 12/13
Monday March 28th, 2022 7:41:30 PM
Manolo continues to eat any leftovers that were still intact after everyone finished eating !

Mole; (RichP) AC 18; HP 30/30; CMD 15
Monday March 28th, 2022 8:03:32 PM
"Thanks." He says getting the wand and money from Drack.

He enjoys the meal prepared by Loryn "Spectacular, meal. Certainly fit for dwarven royalty at the very least."

Drack (Chris J) - hp 30/30 - AC 17
Monday March 28th, 2022 8:55:02 PM
“Ladies and gentlemen, my sincerest apologies. It appears that I screwed up the calculation. When I calculated for the loss of Stowe, I calculated at 6. There are actually 7 of us. Everyone will need to put 113.91gp back into the pot so that everyone gets their fair share. It’s been awhile, so please forgive me.”

(Please subtract 113.91 from the previously listed totals.)

Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.): ac13/13/10. hp21/21. d20+3=6 ; d20=5 ; d20=2 ; d20=10 ;
Monday March 28th, 2022 10:37:41 PM
Mortimer, carrying a large sack of gold coins, was tip toeing by (Stealth: 6) when Drack made his announcement. Unfortunately for him, every step he made caused the floorboards to squeak loudly. It stops him in his tracks. For him, the squeals and moans from the floor sounded uncannily like a rebuke, 'lyiinng!' 'cheeaatiing!' 'baasstaard!'

Mortimer sighs! Was he developing a conscience; a moral code of ethics? The idea left a foul taste in his mouth! He sighs again as he opens his sack and sets several fistfuls of gold coins on the table. "Hope that's enough, I do. Drack, putting ya in charge of the till was a good idea."

DM Steve -- Fit for dwarven royalty at the very least.
Monday March 28th, 2022 10:57:07 PM
Torrynashkabbeth confirms once more that Loryn’s meal was fantastic. She meditates on creativity.
Manolo continues eating while there’s anything left.
Mole thanks Drack for the money and Loryn for the meal.
Drack returns from the Catacombs, with a wand for Mole to use and some money for everyone. After some initial confusion, the split is less than 700 gp each (and a share of the group wand). Drack uses his new healing abilities to help Torryn.
Loryn basks in the praise for his truly praise-worthy meal. He tries to write down what he did, but may have included a few tangents.
Ash thanks Drack for the money.
Mortimer returns some of the excess he received back at the Catacombs.

Talk turns to preparations for the gremlins. Everyone should be able to better equip themselves now, and the Catacombs are not hard to find. It’s only a shame that the other items – which must have some value – can’t be sold there.

Shortly after dusk, Minerva returns. She clearly enjoys what she smells, and heads to the kitchen to ask Loryn what he did. After a few minutes of conversation, she grabs her biggest buckets, tutting that the dishes need to be washed. If anyone offers help, she says it's best if she does it since she knows where everything goes.

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 21/21 AC:20/20/16: CMD: 16. F:4; R: 6; W: 6
Tuesday March 29th, 2022 6:34:50 AM
Torryn didn't think that there was anything else that she needed. They needed a light source to see in the dark: probably more than one would be best, but aside from that she had her spear and was ready to go. Her magic was decidedly limited. It wasn't as if she needed to spend many a careful hour in consideration of what to use. It was Fey and instinctive and that suited her just fine.

"Whenever you Guys want to head back, I'm ready." She confirmed.

Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 23/23
Tuesday March 29th, 2022 7:15:42 AM
"As am I" Ash agrees with Torryn. " I have my light spells ready, and went more attack oriented with my other spells."

Ash puts the requested funds back.

Drack (Chris J) - hp 30/30 - AC 17
Tuesday March 29th, 2022 7:49:43 AM
Drack reaches into his bag, and pulls out the specified amount.

“Speaking of light, we have the three sun rods. We should probably decide who is carrying those, as well as the smoke sticks and antitoxins. I fight two handed, but since I will likely be in the front, I could attach a sun rod to my backpack or my belt.”

Seeing Mortimers obvious pain with returning some of his share of the loot, Drack tries to comfort him. “Don’t worry Mortimer, there will likely be much more to come. I don’t know about everyone else, but this is more gold than I’ve ever had.”

AC 13 HP 19/19 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K d20+12=22 ;
Tuesday March 29th, 2022 11:31:10 AM
Loryn's eyes light up a bit at the shares, this was indeed the most coin he had ever had at the same time. Light was not the real problem.

"The real problem is drowning, not Light. We have plenty of light. We have to assume the water is deeper than we can stand in and I know the idea is to use nets to pull them out, but let's say that doesn't work and we need to go in after 'em. You look real sparkly in your new armor there Drack, but you might want to pick up a lighter set to swim in and a weapon you can thrust with underwater. Swords and bows are of no use here.

The division of more things makes Loryn's shoulders slump a bit. here was where he was a bit self conscious. He was already a drag on the group with keeping up with their pace. More gear would highlight that even more so. He keeps quite, hoping the stronger big folk would step up and lay claim to the items

Evening approaches and Loryn is going to excuse himself and head to the fair grounds. "Hey everyone, keep your eyes open for a bit and if you hear the mad frantic screaming of a gnome, a beloved and amazing gnome at that, come running to the fairgrounds k?"

Loryn heads out and upon arrival, pulls out the Fire Elemental ring. "Time to play with you." Loryn studies the ring and casts Detect Magic once again, even though he knows the magic within, but it felt like what to do. Slipping the ring onto his finger, he concentrates upon it. "Give me fuel, give me fire, give me that which I desire." He says to the ring, trying to activate it.

Use Magic Device 22 - activate blindly DC 25

Drack (Chris J) - hp 30/30 - AC 17
Tuesday March 29th, 2022 12:44:41 PM
"Fair enough Loryn. I'll take a sunrod and stash it for future needs. The rest of you can spread out the other stuff."

"I'm not seeing myself wanting anything to do with going underwater unless it's necessary. I'm not sure we even need to mess with them. If that's a contained pool, and they can't go anywhere, why waste the resources to try and kill them. A water breathing potion will probably cost more than I have, and I don't need another set of armor laying around. especially since I just sold my last one. If there is no water going into the pool, and no water going out, they aren't going anywhere, and don't really pose a danger to anyone. Perhaps we should scout around the outside first, and see if there is a water flow that they could use to escape."

Mole; (RichP) AC 18; HP 30/30; CMD 15
Tuesday March 29th, 2022 1:42:50 PM
"I don't have any means of helping with water breathing. A potion is the only thing I can think of at this point." He says.

"It's not just the water gremlins, but the ones in the wall we have to deal with too. I might have something for that. I can soften the stone to a clay-like material. We can dig them out and rid ourselves of them. For the water ones, my suggestion would be a couple of water breathers and nets. Restrain them with the nets and finish them off. That's my idea."

He responds to Drack. "I want to turn that cave into a shrine for the Earth Mother. I cannot have gremlins causing problems in a place I plan to live. Besides, we have no idea if those things are only restricted to the water. Remember their water was similar to what was happening to the water barrels. That means any body of water in town could be a potential death trap for its people. It's a hazard we cannot afford to have in the area."

Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.): ac13/13/10. hp21/21.
Tuesday March 29th, 2022 2:18:48 PM
"I'm not too worried about drownin', I can hold my breath for very long time. Apparently I don't need to breathe as much as other people. My heart beat is a lot slower too, especially when I sleep. Been mistaken for dead more than once. In fact, I once woke up in the city dump."

Mortimer is interested to see what happens to Loryn, so he follows him outside and keeps an eye on him.

Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.): ac13/13/10. hp21/21.
Tuesday March 29th, 2022 3:23:18 PM
On second thought, Mortimer decides to first grab his water bucket (that he took home from the distillery fire) before going out to watch what happens to Loryn. Best be prepared in case the gnome spontaneously combusts.

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 21/21 AC:20/20/16: CMD: 16. F:4; R: 6; W: 6
Tuesday March 29th, 2022 6:21:15 PM
Fortunately replaced such funds as we're requested. It was true though; she still had more than she'd ever seen in her life.

"If no one minds, I'll quickly run home and give some of this money to my parents.". They were good people and convincing them to actually take any money at all would be a challenge. Still, they'd do the same for her, so she felt obligated to try.

As for the pool, she had a spear and no armour. With a rope attached, she could be pulled out if things turned nasty, but she'd cross that bridge if she came to it.

Manolo (Michael A) -- AC 17/15/12 -- CMD 17 -- HP 12/13
Tuesday March 29th, 2022 7:48:50 PM
Manolo thanks Loryn for the hearty meal and goes to sleep.
"Need to stay fresh for tomorrow", he simply says as he excuses himself to go to sleep.

DM Steve -- Been mistaken for dead more than once.
Tuesday March 29th, 2022 11:28:21 PM
Manolo thanks Loryn for the meal and gets some sleep.
Torrynashkabbeth doesn’t think she needs anything else, and is ready to go back to the cave. She decides to give some of her money to her parents.
Ash is also ready to go back and face gremlins.
Loryn points out that they still have a potential problem with the water gremlins drowning them. Loryn goes to the fair grounds to experiment with the magic ring.
Drack discusses who should carry what from the items that were kept. He does not want to go into the water to fight the gremlins there – perhaps the group should scout outside to see if there’s a way for them to escape.
Mortimer is confident in his ability to hold his breath. He decides to keep an eye on Loryn, and carries a bucket of water just in case.
Mole can’t help with water breathing, and suggests a potion. He might be able to deal with the gremlins in the wall. He talks about long-term plans for the cave.

Remember, among the items that were kept were the elemental ring (in Loryn’s possession) and the vials of poison (last in Manolo’s possession?)...

The festival grounds are bordered on the north and west by a fence, with a hedgerow growing along it. On the south and east is the road to town, with a lightly forested area beyond the road and a stream in the forest that parallels the road about twenty feet away.

In the town field, Loryn activates the ring somehow. A fire appears on the ground nearby, and Loryn lets out an involuntary yelp. It does not appear to be a normal fire, since it has no obvious fuel source, and it clearly takes a five foot step.

Here is a map.

=====
Torryn is on her way down the road when she hears Loryn’s call. It will take her 1d4+1 rounds to reach him.
=====
The rest of the group is in Minerva’s boarding house when Loryn calls. Perception DC: 15 to hear the call, and 3 rounds to reach him.

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 21/21 AC:20/20/16: CMD: 16. F:4; R: 6; W: 6 d4=3 ;
Wednesday March 30th, 2022 3:55:57 AM
'Ugh! There was always something.' Thought Torryn as she changed direction. She'd made good time on her journey to her parents and was not close to the ruckus. The chances were good that whatever the situation, it would be resolved before she got to it. Still, a Sacred Dancer did not turn away from potential trouble.

Drack (Chris J) - hp 30/30 - AC 17 d20+6=23 ;
Wednesday March 30th, 2022 7:58:00 AM
After watching Loryn head out with Mortimer following behind, and then Torry, he realizes that there will likely be no more planning discussed tonight, He sits and enjoys his drink, socializing with the rest of his companions unless he hears something unusual outside. If he does, he will get up and head out, looking for the disturbance,(Perception 23)

Drack (Chris J) - hp 30/30 - AC 17
Wednesday March 30th, 2022 9:37:49 AM
Drack heard Loryn, so he stands and as he’s heading out, says to the others. “Loryn needs help”

Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 23/23 d20+2=13 ;
Wednesday March 30th, 2022 10:11:45 AM
Ash didn't hear Loryn's call, but he heard Dracks words and that was enough for him. He hopped up and followed the others to their friend.

AC 13 HP 19/19 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K
Wednesday March 30th, 2022 11:01:52 AM
the gnome lets out a bit of a yip and moves back 5'.

Loryn holds up his empty hands, "Why Hello there." he says as the fire elemental appears. "Don't suppose you know what I'm saying eh? Probably no, but" Keeping his hand up about his chest height, palms facing the creature, "how about you just hold on and stand there for a moment eh friend?"

He gives a good yell, hoping the others hear, "Hey looks like I have myself a fire elemental!"

He readies a spell if the creature comes at him.
readied action Cast Grease reflex DC 15

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 21/21 AC:20/20/16: CMD: 16. F:4; R: 6; W: 6
Wednesday March 30th, 2022 12:26:41 PM
NB: It will take Torryn 4 rounds to get there. Likely all will be resolved before she arrives.

Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.): ac13/13/10. hp21/21. d20+1=10 ;
Wednesday March 30th, 2022 2:30:09 PM
Mortimer's eyes dart back and forth between Loryn and the fire elemental. He is unsure at what to do. He's never seen one before. He does slowly hide the bucket of water behind him. He doesn't wish to instigate a reaction or threaten the fiery creature.

"Loryn, do you think it would like a piece of wood to burn or something?" He begins to eye if there are any old fire pits in the immediate area. (Perception: 10)

Mole; (RichP) AC 18; HP 30/30; CMD 15 d20+10=20 ;
Wednesday March 30th, 2022 6:11:43 PM
Mole too hears Loryn's cry. He stands and heads out with Drack.

Manolo (Michael A) -- AC 17/15/12 -- CMD 17 -- HP 12/13 d20+6=12 ;
Wednesday March 30th, 2022 7:06:39 PM
Manolo and snores and continues to be asleep.

Perception 12

An Unexpected Occurence

DM Steve -- Do you think it would like a piece of wood to burn or something?
Wednesday March 30th, 2022 10:15:22 PM
Mortimer tries to hide his bucket of water, and asks Loryn if he thinks the elemental might like a piece of wood.
Mole hears Loryn and heads out. (2)
Loryn steps back five feet and tries to talk to the elemental, but is ready with a spell if it tries to attack.
Drack enjoys a drink until he hears Loryn’s shout. Warning the others, he heads out. (2)
Ash doesn’t hear Loryn, but he does hear Drack. He follows. (2)
Manolo is upstairs in his room, and doesn’t hear Loryn or Drack.
Torrynashkabbeth turns back when she hears the commotion. (3)

Loryn and Mortimer watch the elemental flicker and dance for a moment, before it moves away towards the hedgerow. When it moves, it’s pretty fast.

Here is a map. (Updated to allow editing.)

=====
Torryn turns back to town and hurries to reach Loryn. She is approaching from the south, which means that in another round she will cross a bridge over the stream.
=====
Drack, Mole, and Ash hurry to reach Loryn. They are approaching from the northeast. This round they will pass the keep – next, a bit of town and the road to the fairgrounds.
=====
Manolo make a DC:10 perception check to hear the others leaving, and 4 rounds to catch up with them if he wants.

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 21/21 AC:20/20/16: CMD: 16. F:4; R: 6; W: 6
Thursday March 31st, 2022 7:43:24 AM
There wasn't much else to do, but make her way forward. Torryn headed towards the fairground at a steady pace. There was no point in sprinting and arriving so out of breath she could do nothing to help.

Drack (Chris J) - hp 30/30 - AC 17
Thursday March 31st, 2022 9:18:02 AM
Drack quickly hurries towards Loryn's location

Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.): ac13/13/10. hp21/21. d20+4=11 ; d3=1 ;
Thursday March 31st, 2022 11:39:36 AM
"Loryn ... send it back now! I can't let it get to the hedge."

Mortimer gives chase (to I16) with bucket in hand. He sends a shadowy ray of frost at the elemental.

(Mortimer casts Ray of Frost at Fire Elemental. Hit TouchAC: 11, Hero Point after attack roll +4: Hit TouchAC: 15. Damage: 2 Cold Damage. The die roller hates me, unless Im making an unimportant skill check.)

AC 13 HP 19/19 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K d20+12=14 ;
Thursday March 31st, 2022 5:24:14 PM
"Ahhh! No not that way, you blasted campfire!" Loryn runs after the living ball of fire waving his arms about like an idiot.

Hearing Mortimer, "Yeah good idea" He pulls up and focuses on the ring, trying to send the thing away
(Move to I/17)
UMD 14

Mole; (RichP) AC 18; HP 33/33; CMD 15
Thursday March 31st, 2022 6:19:56 PM
Mole continues to move towards the fairgrounds. Drack begins to quickly outdistance him.

Manolo (Michael A) -- AC 17/15/12 -- CMD 17 -- HP 12/13 d20+6=7 ;
Thursday March 31st, 2022 7:47:04 PM
Manolo keeps sleeping, dreaming about food, daggers and other random stuff.

Perception 7

Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 23/23
Thursday March 31st, 2022 8:09:42 PM
Ash follows Drack, hurrying to their friend.

DM Steve -- Not that way, you blasted campfire! d4=4 ; d20+4=15 ; d4=4 ; d4=1 ;
Thursday March 31st, 2022 9:50:44 PM
Manolo sleeps.
Torrynashkabbeth keeps up a steady pace. (3)
Ash follows Drack. (2)
Mortimer tells Loryn to send the thing back before he casts ray of frost.
Loryn chases after the creature until Mortimer’s suggestion penetrates, then tries to use the ring to send it back.
Drack hurries. (2)
Mole heads towards the fairgrounds, but is slower than Drack. (2)

The ray of frost scores on the elemental, which flinches and turns around. The fire races up to Loryn and attacks him. It hits AC 15 for 4 points of damage and make a DC 11 fortitude save or take 1 additional point.

Here is a map.

=====
Torryn turns back to town and hurries to reach Loryn. She is approaching from the south, crossing over the stream this round. .
=====
Drack and Ash hurry to reach Loryn. They are approaching from the east. This round they leave the town and are on the road to the fairgrounds. Mole is not far behind.
=====
Manolo make a DC:7 perception check to hear Minerva shout about all the commotion.

Elemental: AC ? / touch 13, Damage: 3

Drack (Chris J) - hp 30/30 - AC 17
Friday April 1st, 2022 7:53:04 AM
Drack continues to move quickly towards Loryn and Mortimer.

AC 13 HP 14/19 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K d20+3=6 ; d20+4=8 ;
Friday April 1st, 2022 7:56:15 AM
Loryn's smile at Mortimer's strike swiftly disappears as the fire elemental turns on him.

"Ahhhh! The fire burns his arm badly and the thought of next time just move instead of blocking goes through his mind

Loryn hops back and casts an acid ray that sails hopelessly wide

Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.): ac17/17/14. hp21/21. Shield d20+8=20 ;
Friday April 1st, 2022 11:24:02 AM
(Casting Defensively: 20, success)

Employing an archaic hand sign for arcane magic, Mortimer traces a circular shape in the air in front of him while he speaks old draconic words of power. A circular form of his own shadow appears in front of him, liken to the shape of a shield.

(Mortimer casts Shield. Casting Defensively: 20. Shield AC: +4. Duration: 3 minutes.)

"Get behind me Loryn!" He then taunts the fire elemental to attack him instead, "Come on Baby Spark ... Light my FIRE!" He then spits at what could be its face.

Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.): ac17/17/14. hp21/21. Shield
Friday April 1st, 2022 12:15:27 PM
(IF Loryn took a 5-ft step back to cast his Acid Ray, then Mortimer will do a 5ft-step into his old spot to get in between him and the elemental.)

AC 13 HP 14/19 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K
Friday April 1st, 2022 1:45:03 PM
(Of Course Loryn took a 5-ft step back :) )

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 21/21 AC:20/20/16: CMD: 16. F:4; R: 6; W: 6
Friday April 1st, 2022 6:31:52 PM
There was nothing else to do but keep moving. Torryn maintained the same steady pace. She wondered as she ran; was this what adventuring was like? Never getting to do what you set out to do.

Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 23/23
Friday April 1st, 2022 7:59:15 PM
Ash started going through his inventory of what spells he remembered as he ran towards the fight.

Manolo (Michael A) -- AC 17/15/12 -- CMD 17 -- HP 12/13 d20+6=24 ;
Friday April 1st, 2022 8:25:06 PM
Manolo wakes up quite unhappily, feeling tired only to be bombarded by noises of shouting.
He stands up, takes his short sword and makes his way towards the noise.

Perception 24

Mole; (RichP) AC 18; HP 33/33; CMD 15
Friday April 1st, 2022 10:09:34 PM
Mole continues to plug along.

DM Steve -- Get behind me Loryn! d20+4=16 ; d4=4 ; d4=2 ;
Saturday April 2nd, 2022 11:44:44 AM
Mortimer casts a shield and taunts the elemental to attack him instead of Loryn.
Mole continues to plug along.
Loryn steps away from the elemental and tries a spell, but it goes wide.
Manolo wakes to the noise and leaves his room. (4)
Torrynashkabbeth keeps moving. She reflects on life. (2)
Drack continues to move on the road.
Ash mentally sorts his spells as he runs.

When Mortimer took a step between Loryn and the elemental, he naturally became its next target. The elemental attacks, barely missing (hits AC 16). But Mortimer’s spell thwarts it.

Drack and Ash reach a corner of the fairgrounds.

Here is a map.

=====
Torryn follows the road through a scrubby area. She can see the fairgrounds ahead.
=====
Mole is close behind; although not on the map yet, he might affect things with a long range spell.
=====
Manolo tears through the house at a run, startling Minerva.

Elemental: AC ? / touch 13, Damage: 3

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 21/21 AC:20/20/16: CMD: 16. F:4; R: 6; W: 6
Saturday April 2nd, 2022 12:41:33 PM
What was that light? There was definitely something strange ahead. However, at her present distance, there really wasn't much she could do other than continue her loping jog. After this, she was definitely going to be walking the rest of the way home!

Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.): ac:21/21/14. hp:21/21. shield, total defense
Saturday April 2nd, 2022 4:55:35 PM
The elemental slams against the invisible force of his shield. What a relief, it works! He laughs nervously.

He continues to taunt the living flame. "Is that the best YOU can do, SMOKE STAIN!"

(Mortimer is going Total Defense. +4 dodge bonus to AC.)

Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.): ac:21/21/14. hp:21/21. shield, total defense
Saturday April 2nd, 2022 5:18:27 PM
(ooc: I'm seeing a trend in our game ... a LOT of running. It might be useful to get Boots of Striding & Springing and the Run feat. You'd then be able to run as fast as Usain Bolt (23mph/37kph) :)

Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 23/23 2d4+2=5 ;
Sunday April 3rd, 2022 7:35:22 PM
If the map is 5' squares Ash lets loose with a magic missle at the fire elemental. (5 dmg) If its 10' squares, Ash keeps running till hes around row t.

Mole; (RichP) AC 18; HP 33/33; CMD 15
Sunday April 3rd, 2022 8:11:42 PM
Mole stops and puts his hands on his hips. "I’m wasted on cross country. We dwarves are natural born sprinters, very dangerous over short distances." He catches his breath before starting again.

Drack (Chris J) - hp 30/30 - AC 17
Monday April 4th, 2022 7:51:22 AM
Drack will take a double move to 15N, drawing his sword on the way.

"I'll be there in a second guys. Hold on."

AC 13 HP 14/19 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K d20=11 ;
Monday April 4th, 2022 9:08:13 AM
Loryn glances over his shoulder towards town. The gang should be on there way and bingo, there was Drack and Ash.

Loryn was not going to simply hide behind Mortimer however, and wait to be rescued. Loryn moves back and south and fires another ray with the same results that he always has

Manolo (Michael A) -- AC 17/15/12 -- CMD 17 -- HP 12/13
Monday April 4th, 2022 7:23:05 PM
Manolo keeps running towards the noises.
'This is not good', he thinks to himself.

DM Steve -- This is not good. d20=10 ; d4=1 ; d6=4 ;
Monday April 4th, 2022 9:54:02 PM
Ash fires off a magic missile as soon as he can.
Mortimer continues to taunt the elemental.
Manolo runs towards the noise. (3)
Torrynashkabbeth notices an odd light ahead.
Loryn tries another ray, but it does not connect.
Mole pauses for a breather, then starts again.
Drack draws his weapon and gets as close to the elemental as he can.

Injured by Ash’es spell, the elemental retreats into the hedgerow. (Mortimer can make an attack of opportunity as it goes, if he has a weapon ready.) The hedgerow around it begins to smoke and wilt.

Mole reaches one edge of the fairgrounds, Torryn gets to another.

Manolo is approaching from the east. He heads out of the boarding house. Next round he will pass the keep – after that, a bit of town and the road to the fairgrounds.

(OOC: The DM has seen a trend in the game. . . a LOT of splitting up the party. ;-) Leads to a good bit of running, I guess.)

Elemental: AC ? / touch 13, Damage: 8
Hedgerow, Damage 1

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 21/21 AC:20/20/16: CMD: 16. F:4; R: 6; W: 6 d20=13 ; d20=8 ; d6=6 ;
Tuesday April 5th, 2022 3:15:29 AM
She was close now, but even at this proximity she couldn't determine what all the fuss was about. Surely though, that hedge wasn't meant to be smoking like that? Whatever was happening, the hedge was the focus of Loryn, Ash and Morty's attention.

Fortunately continued to approach. As she did, she saw the burning "thing" move in the hedge!
. A living fire? Whatever next? Her first thought was to use her spear, but that would likely necessitate getting burnt. She'd use her Fey Spark once she was close enough.

(Perception: 13+7: 20)
(Attack, if needed: 8+5: 13. Looks like a miss, but you never know with ranged touch, so 6 damage if applicable.)

Drack (Chris J) - hp 30/30 - AC 17 d20+7=18 ; d10+4=13 ;
Tuesday April 5th, 2022 8:48:10 AM
Drack will move towards the fire creature, and strike if within reach. If the creature is more than 30 feet from Drack, he will charge. Attack 18ac(20ac if charging), damage 13.

AC 13 HP 14/19 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K d20+12=21 ;
Tuesday April 5th, 2022 10:05:38 AM
Loryn runs back to the hedgerow and again tries to will the creature back into the ring.

"Probably one of those Fire and regret rings." he shouts to Mortimer as he runs after

Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.): ac:21/21/14. hp:21/21. shield, total defense
Tuesday April 5th, 2022 10:15:33 AM
Unfortunately, Mortimer wasn't armed with his sickle, so the elemental flees unscathed. By the time he reaches for it, the living flame had already entering the hedge. With bucket in hand, he starts to give chase.

Then out of nowhere, Drack charges in with a devastating attack. He looks around to see if the others were arriving.

Mole; (RichP) AC 18; HP 33/33; CMD 15 d20+10=15 ;
Tuesday April 5th, 2022 1:21:12 PM
Mole gets to the edge of the fairgrounds. He surveys the scene and continues towards the fight.

Perception DC15

Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 23/23 2d4+2=5 ;
Tuesday April 5th, 2022 2:37:08 PM
Ash growls to himself, thinking he memorized all these spells for the cave. Now he'd has to rest again to be full.

He releases another two magic missles at the elemental. (5 dmg)

0- Level
Light, Detect Magic, read Magic, Message
1- Level
Magic Missle x3(2x), Sleep
2- Level
Acid Arrowx2

Manolo (Michael A) -- AC 17/15/12 -- CMD 17 -- HP 12/13
Tuesday April 5th, 2022 7:36:16 PM
Manolo keeps running.....

Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.): ac:21/21/14. hp:21/21. shield, total defense
Tuesday April 5th, 2022 9:19:48 PM
Mortimer chuckles a bit after Loryn's comment sinks in.

DM Steve -- Probably one of those Fire and regret rings.
Tuesday April 5th, 2022 11:51:37 PM
Mortimer chases after the elemental.
Mole surveys the scene and approaches.
Loryn makes some observations on the ring after he is again unable to force the creature back into it.
Torrynashkabbeth notices Loryn, Ash, and Mortimer are focused on the hedge, then notices the fire.
Drack charges at the elemental, striking it as he reaches the hedge.
Manolo keeps running.
Ash casts another magic missile.

Between Dracks onslaught and Ash’es spell, the fire seems to be snuffed out. The hedge has a little damage, but did not catch fire itself. Everyone is able to gather and examine the scene without the appearance of more than a wisp of smoke from the singed twigs.

Dorata, one of the four town guards, comes jogging up. ”What’s going on here? Ya’ll ran past the Keep like a pack of dogs chasing a meal,” she asks. She seems more curious than worried.

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 21/21 AC:20/20/16: CMD: 16. F:4; R: 6; W: 6
Wednesday April 6th, 2022 3:30:53 AM
Fortunately was going to explain that she didn't actually know, but that would not help matters in the slightest. So she remained quiet, recovered her breath and with an equally curious expression as that which Formats wore, awaited a telling response.

Drack (Chris J) - hp 30/30 - AC 17
Wednesday April 6th, 2022 8:08:49 AM
Not being quite sure what happened, Drack will look towards Loryn and Mortimer to give an explanation.

Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.): ac:21/21/14. hp:21/21. shield, total defense d20+9=15 ;
Wednesday April 6th, 2022 11:49:17 AM
Mortimer turns to face Dorata, with his WLA badge in full view, and does his best to answer her questions; but not before giving Drack and others a wink. (Bluff: 15)

He sets his water bucket down and begins his explanation. "We were conducting a magical experiment and training exercise. All seemed to go as planned." He then turns back to the group, "By the way everyone ... EXCELLENT response time! I believe that was a new record." Back at Dorata, he adds, "Your participation, while unnecessary, was brilliant as well."

Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 23/23
Wednesday April 6th, 2022 12:25:00 PM
Ash walks up, Smirking to Mortimer as he does. He moves towards the bush, and steps on any lingering embers or flames.

Mole; (RichP) AC 18; HP 33/33; CMD 15
Wednesday April 6th, 2022 2:05:10 PM
Mole sees the issue was resolved before he arrived. "I ran here for nothing?" He says catching his breath. "I need a drink."

Spells
0 - Create water, Flare, Light, Stablized
1 - Cure light wound, Detect snares and pits, Entangle, (d) Magic stone, Speak with Animals
2 - Delay poison, Lesser restoration, Resist energy, Soften earth and stone

Manolo (Michael A) -- AC 17/15/12 -- CMD 17 -- HP 12/13
Wednesday April 6th, 2022 7:47:40 PM
Manolo simply says "Something happened but I am not sure myself", as he stops for a few seconds to regain his breath only to resume running again.

DM Steve -- All seemed to go as planned. d20=12 ;
Wednesday April 6th, 2022 11:00:13 PM
Torrynashkabbeth stays quiet when Dorata is there. She doesn’t know what happened.
Mole realizes he ran all the way for nothing, and needs a drink.
Drack expects Loryn and Mortimer to give the explanation.
Ash smirks and makes sure there are no embers or flames.
Mortimer explains they were conducting a magical experiment and training exercise.
Manolo admits he doesn’t know what happened.
Loryn stays quiet.

Dorata is happy with Mortimer’s explanation, but offers a little advice. ”Ok, but be careful with your experiments. Don’t want folks thinking of you like they think of Heorstan.”

Know local DC 10 (can try untrained): Highlight to display spoiler: {In fact, local opinions of Heorstan vary. Heorstan is full of half-baked ideas about which he gets very enthusiastic. Frequently they work, and there is no one in town he has not helped with some unexpected notion. However, they also often do not work, and have been known to fail spectacularly. There are several people in town who feel he is more of a menace than a benefit. They point to close calls where people escaped being hurt only by luck.}

There is no fire, and not much evidence that there almost was one. Dorata heads off after being told everything’s okay. The rest of the day passes uneventfully, barring any explanations Loryn provides the rest of the group.

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 21/21 AC:20/20/16: CMD: 16. F:4; R: 6; W: 6
Thursday April 7th, 2022 3:38:26 AM
Torryn smiled reassuringly at Dorata. Before heading home she ascertained why she'd been running. The matter though was closed.

Donating the money was as problematic as she'd expected, but eventually she convinced her parents to accept 100 gold coins. She stayed for a meal and then went back to the boarding house.

"Shall we tackle the water gremmies once all our magic is restored or is it dangerous to leave them any longer than is absolutely necessary?"

Drack (Chris J) - hp 30/30 - AC 17 d20=18 ;
Thursday April 7th, 2022 7:59:32 AM
on the way back to the inn, Drack explains to anyone who isn't aware about Heorstan, and what people think of him.

"Well Torry, If you guys want to deal with the water gremlins, i suppose everyone should be at full go, and we are probably gonna need to get a net in the morning."

AC 13 HP 14/19 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K
Thursday April 7th, 2022 9:46:01 AM
Loryn rocks a bit on his heels as Mortimer 'explains' the situation. Clever Mortimer, very clever. Might be some gnome somewhere along the line he thinks to himself. Loryn slips the Ring back off of his finger and ponders what he knows, which is not too much, but enough to be dangerous. He steps over to the hedge and taps out a small scorched section of grass with his foot. "I wonder how far away I could get it." he muses aloud, though really to himself.

"I still suggest you get a set of Leather armor Drack. If you go in, none of us can pull you out."

Loryn heads back with everyone and plans to have a last drink by the fire and then head to bed, barring party business

Drack (Chris J) - hp 30/30 - AC 17
Thursday April 7th, 2022 12:30:39 PM
“Fine” grunts Drack in response to Loryn’s suggestion. “One of you all see if you can get ahold of a net that will suit our purposes.”

“If I gotta go swimming, I’m going to be extremely displeased.”

Drack will head out around town to see if he can find a set of leather armor. Otherwise he will have to make a lengthy trip to the catacombs again.

Manolo (Michael A) -- AC 17/15/12 -- CMD 17 -- HP 12/13 d20+7=15 ;
Thursday April 7th, 2022 5:30:08 PM
Manolo keeps running if not arriving where the group is yet.

Otherwise

Manolo manages to meet up with the group only to hear about Heorstan.

Local knowledge 15

Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.): ac:21/21/14. hp:21/21. shield, total defense d20+1=10 ;
Thursday April 7th, 2022 10:19:27 PM
Mortimer is quite proud of himself; crisis averted. He sniffs the air with satisfaction ... and catches a whiff of something delightful. Something savory, like meat cooking over an open flame. Mortimer feels his stomach grumbling as his appetite awakens. He turns in the direction of the meaty, fire-kissed delight. He sees only Loryn in that direction, tapping out the last flickers of the elemental. Loryn was slightly seared by the elemental, he thinks. Maybe with the right seasoning ... NOO, NO, he keeps telling himself. Mortimer is NOT going through that again! It took him forever to get THAT monkey off his back. Gnomes were NOT on the menu!

"Well ... nothing to see here! Feeling quite peckish, I am. Goin' back for a bite then off ta bed." He wonders if Heorstan has anything that would scare gremlins out of the water ... like a water moccasin or a shocker lizard or something.

Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 23/23
Thursday April 7th, 2022 10:34:19 PM
"Id prefer if we were full power. I expected to go today but used two of my spells apready. Lets recoup and head out at Dawn. "

DM Steve -- Lets recoup and head out at Dawn.
Thursday April 7th, 2022 11:05:04 PM
Mortimer is proud of himself for handling Dorata. He’s also hungry. He wonders if Heorstan has anything that would scare the gremlins out of the pool.
Torrynashkabbeth donates money to her parents. She asks the group about dealing with the water gremlins.
Ash would prefer to recover spells before chasing gremlins.
Loryn admires Mortimer’s quick thinking and ponders the ring. He suggests Drack might want leather armor if they’re going to fight gremlins in a pool.
Drack explains about Heorstan. He talks about getting a net, and is persuaded to look for leather armor.
Manolo arrives to hear about Heorstan, which he already knew.
Mole is quiet.

The group heads back to the boarding house. They make plans and look for gear. It is getting on towards noon the next day before they are ready to head back to the caves – in part to let folks recover their spells, but mostly to find suitable leather armor. (A fishing net is not hard to find.)

As twigs and branches snap under their feet, sunlight scatters through the swaying trees above. A breeze carries with it the scent of fallen leaves and moist soil. The path takes them quickly to the top of the ridge above the cave. They navigate the steep and narrow trail down to it without mishap. Once there, they need to arrange themselves to go in.

Here is a map.

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 21/21 AC:20/20/16: CMD: 16. F:4; R: 6; W: 6
Friday April 8th, 2022 4:01:28 AM
"If you like, I can lead the way. I can call forth my Get Armour, which ought to make me difficult to hit. I can also see quite well in the gloom. Plus, as a Sacred Dancer, I can sense if there's anything profane close by.". Fortunately didn't mind if someone else wanted to lead, but felt that she should offer.

If chosen to lead she will invoke her mage armour.

Drack (Chris J) - hp 30/30 - AC 17 d6=3 ; d6=4 ;
Friday April 8th, 2022 8:00:20 AM
Before heading out to find leather armor, Drack will lay hands on Loryn to heal up the injuries caused by the fire elemental. Doing it twice to heal 7hp of damage. "No sense you heading out tomorrow already hurt."

Drack searches around town, and finally finds a suitable set of leather armor in case he ends up going swimming. Drack will hand the seller 10 gp, and thank him for the armor.

Upon waking the next morning, Drack will pray to Domi, and recover the full allotment of his lay hands. He will then don the leather armor with the rest of his gear and ask Minerva to store his breastplate for him until he returns.

Upon reaching the ridge, Drack responds to Torry. "I'll take point Torry. I prefer it. What do you think Loryn? Manolo first to check to see if the little gremlins that escaped reset any of those traps, or made new ones? Or should I just lead on and look for them. If i spot any, Manolo can take a try and shutting them off."

Drack (Chris J) - hp 30/30 - AC 13
Friday April 8th, 2022 8:05:29 AM
(header Adjustment. I'm going to be pretty easy to hit in leather.)

Mole; (RichP) AC 18; HP 33/33; CMD 15 d20+10=16 ;
Friday April 8th, 2022 9:40:29 AM
In town before they head out, Mole will pick up a net and 2 healer kits.

"I'll go in third. I can detect natural pits and deadfalls. Any traps set by the gremlins remaining will probably be a naturally built trap. Drack, I can harden your body to give you some more defense. It only last a couple of minutes, so I'll wait until it's needed."

Once the group begins moving into the cave, Mole will cast Detect snares and pits. As they Mole will maintain his concentration forward.

Perception DC16

Spells
0 - Create water, Flare, Light, Stablized
1 - Cure light wound, Detect snares and pits (c), Entangle, (d) Magic stone, Speak with Animals
2 - Barkskin, Delay poison, Resist energy, (d) Soften earth and stone

AC 13 HP 19/19 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K
Friday April 8th, 2022 10:13:32 AM
Loryn thanks Drack for the healing, though he had forgotten about the burn in the excitement. Would have remembered later to be sure.

Making the way to the bottom of the cliff and ready to go in, the gnome nods his agreement. "Good thought Drack. Manolo, see if any gremlins have set up new traps eh? Then Drack, Mole, Torry, me, Mortimer and Ash. When we get to the pool cave, spread out and don't get to close to the shore at first. I'll put up some Dancing Lights to cover most of the place in light for us and then we start fishing."

Drack (Chris J) - hp 30/30 - AC 13
Friday April 8th, 2022 5:01:20 PM
“No problem Loryn, glad to help. My healing isn’t as strong as Mole’s but it’s good for emergencies or clean up after a fight.”

“Thanks Mole. Everything will help.”

Manolo (Michael A) -- AC 17/15/12 -- CMD 17 -- HP 12/13 d20+7=24 ;
Friday April 8th, 2022 8:03:31 PM
Manolo looks for evidence of traps or other funny stuff that could surprise them.
Manolo will be the last one or the one before the last one.

Perception ( Trap finding) 24

Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 23/23
Friday April 8th, 2022 8:14:50 PM
Ash again prepared his spells. In the morning, he gathers the supplies with the others.

Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.): ac:21/21/14. hp:21/21. shield, total defense
Friday April 8th, 2022 11:53:43 PM
Mortimer does his normal morning prep. He has a filling, healthy breakfast. There shouldn't be any unwanted cravings today. He feels good. He doesn't recall hearing or seeing any phantoms during the night. Things are looking up. That's a good sign. He only wishes he had enough money for that ultra lightweight chain shirt he saw in the Catacombs. It was so shiny; made from that special metal. It would have looked impressive ... and protect him everything that wished him harm.

When they make their way back to the cave, he is fine with Drack's and Loryn's lineup suggestions. He was glad to get out of the morning sun. It irritated him; the bright sunlight.

Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.): ac:13/13/10. hp:21/21.
Friday April 8th, 2022 11:56:11 PM
(ooc: correcting my ac and active spells in the name line.)

Mole; (RichP) AC 18; HP 33/33; CMD 15
Saturday April 9th, 2022 9:54:16 AM
Mole chuckles to himself when he hears Drack's statement about his healing. Not stronger...the same I'd wager. He thinks as he watches down the cave concentrating on the locations of traps.

DM Steve -- See if any gremlins have set up new traps, eh?
Saturday April 9th, 2022 11:47:25 AM
Ash is ready to go.
Mortimer is glad to be getting out of the sunlight.
Manolo looks for traps. He prefers to be near the back of the marching order.
Torrynashkabbeth offers to lead the way.
Mole also gets some gear. He offers to take the third position in case there are natural traps.
Drack heals Loryn before they go looking for gear, and wears his new leather armor for this excursion. He prefers to take the lead, and debates whether Manolo should look for traps first.
Loryn proposes a marching order. He also talks about how to tackle the gremlins in the pool.

Manolo finds no traps near the entrance, and the others file in behind him. Mole laughs gently at something Drack says. In the first room, there are questions about Manolo’s place in the lineup, since he prefers not to stay at point. Also, the entrance is lit enough, but further into the caves only Mole is likely to see anything.

Although he doesn’t find a trap, Manolo is convinced that something is different about the area. It takes a moment to put his finger on it, but he thinks that the nest in the corner over there (in S-8) is different somehow. Mole is able to confirm this, saying that it is covered in a fungus he doesn’t remember seeing here. But he recognizes it, and it's harmless.

Here is a map.

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 21/21 AC:20/20/16: CMD: 16. F:4; R: 6; W: 6
Saturday April 9th, 2022 12:46:03 PM
It seemed as good a time as any to invoke her magical protection. So Torryn did so. With her Fey Shield in place she was a far more challenging target than was Drack. It was why she'd offered to lead, but was not about to argue over it. After all, Drack was far stronger and tougher than she was.

Torryn opened her Fey Sight. This time though, she wasn't looking for magic. Others could do that and likely better than she. No, now she was seeking the presence of any poisons!

(OOC: Torryn casts Mage Armour and is at present concentrating on Detecting Poison.)

Mole; (RichP) AC 18; HP 33/33; CMD 15
Sunday April 10th, 2022 8:30:36 AM
Mole reaches forward and placing a hand on Drack says "Rùsg chraobhan." Drack's skin takes on a slight bark-like appearance. "Should last you about a half an hour."

Active Spells - Barkskin (on Drack, +2 natural armor): 30 minutes

Spells
0 - Create water, Flare, Light, Stablized
1 - Cure light wound, Detect snares and pits (c), Entangle, (d) Magic stone, Speak with Animals
2 - Barkskin (c), Delay poison, Resist energy, (d) Soften earth and stone

Drack (Chris J) - hp 30/30 - AC 15
Monday April 11th, 2022 9:10:52 AM
"Thanks Mole."

"Should we poke around the nest with Torry's spear, or continue on?"

"Should we bypass the pool to start, and head for the wall that all the little ones disappeared in? If we don't make sure they aren't there, or secure that that area, they could come up behind us when we are dealing with the water gremlins."

Active Effects:
Barkskin: +2 natural armor to AC. 30 minutes.(from Mole)

AC 13 HP 19/19 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K
Monday April 11th, 2022 5:23:04 PM
Loryn strikes up a torch so that he and most others get some additional light. "Anyone with a Light spell, now would be a good time. I'm saving mine for the pool."

At Drack's suggestion and Manolo's perceptive eye, Loryn agrees, "We should check out what's going on here and make sure we don't have enemies at our back.

Loryn positions himself to be able to make a 5' move in and catch the nest in a Color Spray which he readies if anything comes out of the nest.

"We got you covered Toryy, take a poke."

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 21/21 AC:20/20/16: CMD: 16. F:4; R: 6; W: 6
Monday April 11th, 2022 5:29:09 PM
"No, I can't make light. At least, not yet. Torryn replied in little more than a whisper. To her it seemed that the cave invited quiet. yet she was ready with her spear.

"I'll check the nest if you wish. After that, I think it's a good idea to check out the wall first."

All it needed was one affirming nod and she'd deploy her spear to see what, if anything, the nest hid.

Manolo (Michael A) -- AC 17/15/12 -- CMD 17 -- HP 12/13 d20+7=18 ;
Monday April 11th, 2022 7:04:35 PM
Manolo tries to think about possible traps that might be related to changing environments.

trap finding (perception) 18

Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.): ac:13/13/10. hp:21/21. d20+1=21 ;
Monday April 11th, 2022 9:57:25 PM
Answering Loryn's lighting quandaries, Mortimer replies, "My Light spell is this hooded lantern. If you'd prefer to use something less fiery and smoky; knowing your recent bad luck with things flammable." He'll hand it over if he wants it.

For some reason, after coming back a second time, he seems more attuned to the spirits that linger here in the dark. Their whispers tell him things he otherwise could not see.

(Perception: 21, Natural 20. Surprise!)

DM Steve -- Here is a map. -- My Light spell is this hooded lantern.
Monday April 11th, 2022 10:50:41 PM
Loryn strikes up a torch for light. He plans to save his light spell. He agrees with Drack’s suggestion to poke around this nest.
Manolo tries to think of traps that would relate to the changes they see.
Mole casts barkskin on Drack.
Mortimer has a hooded lantern.
Torrynashkabbeth invokes her fey shield and looks around with her fey sight. She’s ready to check the nest if that’s what the group wants.
Ash is quiet.
Drack asks about poking around in the nest with a spear, and proposes checking out the wall that the little gremlins escaped into before tackling the ones in the pool.

Torryn does not see anything poisonous in the area, and Manolo does not see any traps. Torryn pokes the nest with her spear, but does not discover anything concerning. With the lights resolved, everyone will be able to see as they proceed deeper into the caves. Several have suggested going to room where they had their last skirmish first, to look at the wall that the smaller gremlins escaped into. That wall had crevices that a small creature (like Loryn) could squeeze into, which most of the party would not be able to navigate at all. If the party wants to head directly there – carefully, of course – they remember the way well enough.

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 21/21 AC:20/20/16: CMD: 16. F:4; R: 6; W: 6
Tuesday April 12th, 2022 7:44:56 AM
"Let us move on then. There is nothing here: at least, not at the moment. I'll keep looking for poison - just in case." Torryn was all for moving directly to the end wall in order to ascertain whether any of the tiny Dark fey yet remained.

It was interesting; so much seemed to have changed since she was last here. Enjoying as she now did the sponsorship of Eberyon and Flower, she felt more confident. So, spear in hand, she pressed on. To test her newfound abilities, she switched focus. Was there evil lurking nearby? She reached out with her senses.

(Torryn will switch back to Detect Poison when entering a new room and then, if nothing found, revert to Detect Evil.).

Drack (Chris J) - hp 30/30 - AC 15
Tuesday April 12th, 2022 8:14:19 AM
“Alright. Let’s check the back wall and then move to the pool. Let’s not take too much time at the wall. I’d like Mole’s spell to be in effect when we go after the water gremlins.”

Mole; (RichP) AC 18; HP 33/33; CMD 15 d20+10=24 ; d20+2=12 ;
Tuesday April 12th, 2022 8:29:09 AM
Mole agrees to bypass the pool for now and deal with the gremlins in the wall. "Solas na maidne" says Mole and a soft yellow light, the color of the morning sun as it first crests over the land, illuminates his shield.

Perception DC24, Dungeoneering DC 12

Active Spells - Barkskin (on Drack, +2 natural armor): 30 minutes

Spells
0 - Create water, Flare, Light, Stabilize
1 - Cure light wound, Detect snares and pits (c), Entangle, (d) Magic stone, Speak with Animals
2 - Barkskin (c), Delay poison, Resist energy, (d) Soften earth and stone

AC 13 HP 19/19 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K
Tuesday April 12th, 2022 11:27:10 AM
The gnome thought it was odd to pass the pool to go to the wall and begins to open his mouth, but just shuts it. The wall the small holes would give him a chance to test a theory perhaps.

While walking past the pool, he slips the ring back onto his finger

Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 23/23
Tuesday April 12th, 2022 12:57:06 PM
Ash follows the others down, directly to the cave wall with the crevices. He scans the rooms as he goes, ready with a spell on his lips.

0- Level
Light, Detect Magic, read Magic, Message
1- Level
Magic Missle x3, Sleep
2- Level
Acid Arrowx2

Manolo (Michael A) -- AC 17/15/12 -- CMD 17 -- HP 12/13 d20+7=20 ;
Tuesday April 12th, 2022 6:01:54 PM
Manolo still watches out for any traps.

trap finding (perception 20)

Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.): ac:13/13/10. hp:21/21. d20+1=17 ;
Tuesday April 12th, 2022 10:20:47 PM
Assuming the dwarven druid has a taste for mushrooms, Mortimer asks, "Mole, we're those mushrooms edible, yeah?" He knows certain rare mushrooms are highly prized, by cooks, alchemists and other enthusiasts.

Again, he keeps his eyes and ears wide open for threats and objects of interest.

(Perception: 17. Again, another high roll for nothing. :)

DM Steve -- Here is a map. -- Were those mushrooms edible?
Tuesday April 12th, 2022 11:00:26 PM
Mortimer wonders if the mushrooms were edible.
Loryn thinks passing the pool to go check the wall is odd, but accepts it.
Torrynashkabbeth keeps looking for poison as they move. She tries detecting evil as well.
Manolo looks for traps as they go.
Mole agrees to bypass the pool, and casts light on his shield.
Drack agrees to check the wall first and come back to the pool. He wants to be quick.
Ash readies a spell as he follows the others.

Mole tells Mortimer the fungus just glows faintly if it’s disturbed. But it’s so faint that even in torchlight you can’t see it.

The group is able to bypass the chamber with the pool and make it to the chamber where their last fight was, without incident. This chamber is much as they left it, again with a light growth of fungus on the remains of the gremlins’ bedding areas.

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 21/21 AC:20/20/16: CMD: 16. F:4; R: 6; W: 6
Wednesday April 13th, 2022 3:33:52 AM
As the fungi didn't appear to be poisonous, Torryn switched to seeking any lurking evil. She confidently approached the far wall whilst focusing on her new found ability. Surely if there was anything evil in close proximity her patrons would warn her.

(OOC: Torryn will try to determine where any of the evil creatures lurk.)

Mole; (RichP) AC 18; HP 33/33; CMD 15 d20+9=23 ; d20+10=20 ;
Wednesday April 13th, 2022 7:53:56 AM
Mole looks at the mushrooms Mortimer points out. "Let me see." Mole looks at the fungus and then searches his memory for any thoughts on the subject.

Natural Knowledge: DC23

Later, in the large chamber, Mole will scan the room for gremlins (his darkvision should allow him to see the entire room). "Remember the darkness spell they cast last time. Don't move too far from the group."

Perception: DC20

Active Spells - Barkskin (on Drack, +2 natural armor): 30 minutes

Spells
0 - Create water, Flare, Light, Stabilize
1 - Cure light wound, Detect snares and pits (c), Entangle, (d) Magic stone, Speak with Animals
2 - Barkskin (c), Delay poison, Resist energy, (d) Soften earth and stone

Drack (Chris J) - hp 30/30 - AC 15
Wednesday April 13th, 2022 8:40:10 AM
Drack stands by while the others check it out. Being to big to go in and take a look, he can't do much unless a gremlin comes out.

AC 13 HP 19/19 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K d20+4=15 ;
Wednesday April 13th, 2022 10:23:32 AM
Loryn looks at the far wall with the holes that just about no one else is getting through and sighs. Looks like it is time to do something potentially stupid. Torch in hand, Loryn approaches the wall carefully and if nothing jumps out at him causing him to need a Prestidigitation spell, he climbs through a hole.

Perception 15

Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 23/23
Wednesday April 13th, 2022 5:29:09 PM
Ash follows up behind Loryn as he scans the wall. He keeps an eye more on someone attacking them.

Manolo (Michael A) -- AC 17/15/12 -- CMD 17 -- HP 12/13 d20+6=16 ;
Wednesday April 13th, 2022 6:59:06 PM
Manolo takes a look of his surroundings without looking for traps, fixating his gaze on the fungus.

Perception 16

Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.): ac:13/13/10. hp:21/21.
Wednesday April 13th, 2022 10:30:21 PM
"Thanks Mole," he replies. "Ya know what they say, and I know this by experience, when you lay down with dogs, you get up with fleas. Could those buggers be covered in 'shroom seed and spread them to these nests? That could be an answer to where they're from."

Besides his first theory, Mortimer thinks the gremlins could possibly be hiding themselves with magic, so he casts a simple divination.

(Mortimer casts Detect Magic. Range: 60ft. Duration: Concentration, up to 3 minutes.)

DM Steve -- Here is a map. -- Don't move too far from the group.
Wednesday April 13th, 2022 10:35:34 PM
Torrynashkabbeth looks for evil, since she sees no poison.
Loryn pushes his way into the crevices, unsure if it’s wise..
Mole considers the mushrooms. He reminds everyone to be careful of the ones that cast magical darkness.
Ash keeps an eye on the wall where Loryn went.
Manolo focuses on the fungus.
Drack stands by.
Mortimer theorizes about mushrooms and realizes the gremlins could be hiding magically.

Torryn does not find poison or evil in the area. Mole sees no gremlins, and neither he nor Manolo sees obvious signs of recent activity. Mortimer finds no magic in the area except that he expects from his companions.

Before he has gone far, Loryn finds himself in a maze of twisty little passages, all alike. Within twenty feet, he can no longer see the room the others are in, although he can still hear them easily. He doesn’t see an end to the passages in front of him as they twist and split. Clearly, the rest of the group cannot fit through these crevices, which are frequently tight for Loryn.

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 21/21 AC:20/20/16: CMD: 16. F:4; R: 6; W: 6
Thursday April 14th, 2022 3:18:56 AM
Fortunately worried. She hoped that Loryn would return soon. Whilst she was rather small by most standards, she doubted she'd be able to follow where Loryn had gone. All she could do was remain alert and be ready should anything happen.

Drack (Chris J) - hp 30/30 - AC 15
Thursday April 14th, 2022 7:41:31 AM
Drack stands by, knowing he can't do anything in this situation, and hoping Loryn doesn't get into trouble.

Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 23/23
Thursday April 14th, 2022 10:19:51 AM
Ash watches the creviced wall, hoping Loryn pops back out. There is nothing more he can do. He pops a corn kernel into his pocket, feeding Oslo as he waits.

AC 13 HP 19/19 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K d20+4=14 ;
Thursday April 14th, 2022 11:34:44 AM
Loryn heads back tot he group and asks for a rope to tie off. "Its a bit of a maze back in there. I didn't go far, but i want to go further and not get lost. So i'll hold this end, you guys the other and then I can follow it back."

With one end of the rope in hand, Loryn hops back through and pushes his exploration a bit further. he tries to keep his bearing so that for the most part he is heading in one direct

Perception 14

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 21/21 AC:20/20/16: CMD: 16. F:4; R: 6; W: 6
Thursday April 14th, 2022 5:31:08 PM
"You'd better hold the other end, Dracky." He was a lot stronger than her and it seemed sensible to her to have someone strong hang on, just in case Loryn needed to be pulled towards the exit. It was challenging to remain calm, but Torryn followed a few breathing exercises that Agratha had taught her and then feeling a little more relaxed scanned around , in a circle, seeking to ascertain if anything vile was approaching.

Manolo (Michael A) -- AC 17/15/12 -- CMD 17 -- HP 12/13
Thursday April 14th, 2022 8:10:51 PM
Manolo cheers Loryn, knowing it can be quite scary in small and crampy places.

DM Steve -- Here is a map. -- Its a bit of a maze back in there.
Thursday April 14th, 2022 11:10:42 PM
Manolo tries to cheer Loryn.
Torrynashkabbeth worries about Loryn. After he returns, she insists Drack hold the rope for him.
Loryn heads back to the group and asks for a rope so he can go further in without getting lost.
Ash watches the wall.
Drack hopes Loryn doesn’t get into trouble.
Mole and Mortimer wait quietly.

With one end of the rope in hand, Loryn hops back through and pushes his exploration a bit further. He tries to keep his bearing so that for the most part he is heading in one direction. Nevertheless, he only gets so far in the twisty maze of little passages before he is out of rope. There is no sign of the tiny gremlins in the area, although he tries several ways. His best guess is that this was maybe an escape route. As far as he can get, it does not seem livable.

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 21/21 AC:20/20/16: CMD: 16. F:4; R: 6; W: 6
Friday April 15th, 2022 3:01:13 AM
Nothing untoward had happened. There were no panicked shouts or cries of pain. Perhaps more importantly, she'd detected no encroaching evil. So Torryn did her best to wait patiently. Waiting though, wasn't her forte. She decided to head back, away from the wall, not far, but ready should anything approach from the path they'd taken. Really, it was just being active that helped quell her restlessness and impatience.

AC 13 HP 19/19 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K
Friday April 15th, 2022 3:04:15 PM
Loryn heads back and tells the group what he found. "Looks like an escape route, certainly nothing staying there long term. Let's go get them water gremlins out of here and free this area from their evil influences."

Loryn thanks Drack for his support on the rope and gives Manolo a cheery smile

Once back to the room with the pool, Loryn reminds everyone to keep some distance.
"Ok, I'm going to temporarily enhance the nets and then light up the cavern. "

When other preparations are made, Loryn casts Magic Weapon on Torry and Dracks net and then casts [i]Dancing Lights[i/]

Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 23/23
Friday April 15th, 2022 4:57:33 PM
Ash heads back with the others. Be was spooking hinself a bit, preparing for the worst. He waits as the spells are cast.. watching with gusto at the results.

Mole; (RichP) AC 18; HP 33/33; CMD 15
Friday April 15th, 2022 6:37:58 PM
Mole is glad that the gnome didn't run into any problems in the small tunnels. "I'll light up the nets so we can see anything down in the water."

Mole casts Light on the nets.

Active Spells - Barkskin (on Drack, +2 natural armor): 30 minutes

Spells
0 - Create water, Flare, Light, Stabilize
1 - Cure light wound, Detect snares and pits (c), Entangle, (d) Magic stone, Speak with Animals
2 - Barkskin (c), Delay poison, Resist energy, (d) Soften earth and stone

Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.): ac:13/13/10. hp:21/21. d20+1=3 ;
Friday April 15th, 2022 9:28:03 PM
Mortimer looks around as they prepare to exterminate the water gremlins. He doesn't recall having gathered up the bodies. He looks for the blood stains from where the other gremlins had been slain. Were they consumed by predators? Were they dragged away by survivors. These perplexing thoughts are distracting. (Perception: 3)

DM Steve -- Here is a map. -- I'll light up the nets
Friday April 15th, 2022 11:41:04 PM
Mortimer is distracted wondering about the bodies of the gremlins that were killed.
Torrynashkabbeth decides to check that nothing is approaching from behind.
Ash had spooked himself a bit at the wall, but watches eagerly as spells are cast.
Loryn heads back and tells the group what he found. As they head to the water gremlins, he prepares a few spells.
Mole offers to light up a net. (He can only have one light in effect at a time.)
Manolo and Drack wait quietly.

The group prepare to creep toward the pool with nets and extra light. At this distance, they can make out a pile of something at the water’s edge that had not been there before.

(Please see the map for a starting position, and let me know what actions you take. The lighting shown should work whether Mole kept the light spell on his shield or cast it on a net.)

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 21/21 AC:20/20/16: CMD: 16. F:4; R: 6; W: 6 d20=17 ;
Saturday April 16th, 2022 3:22:12 AM
Torryn studied the pile of debris. It sat in the gloom near the edge of the torch's light, but that wasn't an issue for her.

(Perception: +7: 24.)

When it came to entering the water she intended to invoke her Fey Shield, but now was not yet the time as it wouldn't last long.

(She'll inform the others of what she can perceive.)

Mole; (RichP) AC 18; HP 33/33; CMD 15
Saturday April 16th, 2022 9:48:26 AM
Mole moves up to the wall (See map). He takes out a piton and his hammer and drives the piton into the stone (noted by map). Making sure it is completely secure, he turn to the others "Run some rope through the piton, that can be our anchor. Then Drack and Manolo move closer while me and another holds this end. We give'em slake as they need it." He says gauging the groups response. "Manolo can check for traps and other dangers, and Drack....well, is there to do Drack things."

Active Spells - Barkskin (on Drack, +2 natural armor): 30 minutes

Spells
0 - Create water, Flare, Light, Stabilize
1 - Cure light wound, Detect snares and pits (c), Entangle, (d) Magic stone, Speak with Animals
2 - Barkskin (c), Delay poison, Resist energy, (d) Soften earth and stone

Drack (Chris J) - hp 30/30 - AC 15
Sunday April 17th, 2022 8:16:14 PM
Drack nods, and ties one end of the rope to the piton, and then the far end around himself. “Manolo, Grab the rope a rope a few feet behind me. I tied it to myself because I fight two handed, and they can pull me out if something bad happens. I’ll lead the way and keep watch on the water while you check the area.”

(Monday post)

Active spells: barkskin

Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 23/23
Monday April 18th, 2022 6:12:39 PM
Ash takes up the rope if asked. He won't add much in muscle but can help with some extra weight.

Manolo (Michael A) -- AC 17/15/12 -- CMD 17 -- HP 12/13 d20+6=12 ;
Monday April 18th, 2022 6:50:24 PM
Manolo will be there somewhere in the middle of the pack, looking out for any ambushes and surprises.

Perception 12

AC 13 HP 19/19 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K
Monday April 18th, 2022 8:52:07 PM
Loryn casts Magic Weapon on the nets and moves up to take a position [I/17] As he does so, he positions the Dancing Lights above the water [C/17, C/18 and E/17, E/18]

"Cast away and lets haul in a gremlin"

Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.): ac:13/13/10. hp:21/21. d20+1=9 ;
Monday April 18th, 2022 9:39:44 PM
Mortimer was assuming they were going to use a hand-thrown fishing net. Like what the fishermen use along the shoreline. He isn't familiar with this type. He watches, from a distance, as the others set it up. It looks like they are planning on bringing in a huge haul, but these tiny gremlin can't weigh more than 10 pounds a piece soaking wet. He could be wrong. He doesn't know enough to offer any advice, so he trusts that his friends know what they're doing.

Mortimer decides to ready his own plan of attack. (Perception: 9)

(Ready an Action: If the gremlins show themselves, he will cast Shield on himself.)

DM Steve -- Here is a map. -- Cast away and lets haul in a gremlin
Monday April 18th, 2022 10:16:44 PM
Mole fastens a rope to a piton he stuck in the wall, so that they can use it to pull Drack away from the pool if need be.
Manolo look for surprises, but prefers to be further back than Drack requested.
Loryn has the nets prepared and casts dancing lights above the water.
Mortimer watches the preparations of the others, a bit unsure of the plan, and readies a spell himself.
Torrynashkabbeth studies the pile of debris.
Ash helps hold the rope.
Drack ties the rope off and asks Manolo to check the area from behind him.

As the party approaches the pool, Torryn realizes the debris near the pool is the remains of gremlins, some half eaten. Probably the ones they killed last time they were here. So the bedding has become food for the mushrooms, but the gremlins themselves have become food for their own kind.

Torryn also notices some eyes break the surface of the water. These water gremlins are an ugly combination of lobster and dog. She barely has time to shout a warning before Drack is covered in a thin layer of water that appears from nowhere.

Drack must make a DC 10 Reflex save to evade the water. Failure means Drack is encased in the stuff and effectively entangled.

Mortimer may cast his spell if he wishes prior to other actions.

The creature ducks back under the water.

Mole; (RichP) AC 18; HP 33/33; CMD 15 d20+1=20 ;
Monday April 18th, 2022 11:50:02 PM
The creature attacks Drack and Mole pulls on the rope, strength check DC20, to assist him out of the goo.

Active Spells - Barkskin (on Drack, +2 natural armor): 30 minutes

Spells
0 - Create water, Flare, Light, Stabilize
1 - Cure light wound, Detect snares and pits (c), Entangle, (d) Magic stone, Speak with Animals
2 - Barkskin (c), Delay poison, Resist energy, (d) Soften earth and stone

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 21/21 AC:20/20/16: CMD: 16. F:4; R: 6; W: 6
Tuesday April 19th, 2022 2:38:55 AM
Now was the time for the Fey Shield. Torryn would trust to her magic. With the spell in place she intended to snatch up a net and ensnare a water gremlin.

NB: I've not adjusted the header yet. AC will become 24 if the spell comes off.

At present Torryn was only average at best in a fight. She wasn't tough. She wasn't strong. Yet she was swifter than most and did not lack courage. So she again unhesitatingly launched herself into the fray.

Drack (Chris J) - hp 30/30 - AC 15 d20+5=20 ;
Tuesday April 19th, 2022 8:02:05 AM
(ooc: Did we get a quick tutorial on how to use this net? I assume there will be one or two ropes that will need to be pulled to haul it in once it is cast.)

Drack sidesteps the watery goo trying to encase him(reflex save 20), and assuming he isn't yanked backwards by Mole, will cast the net where the gremlins had popped up their heads, in the manner they had hopefully been instructed when they got the net.

Manolo (Michael A) -- AC 17/15/12 -- CMD 17 -- HP 12/13
Tuesday April 19th, 2022 5:38:28 PM
Manolo goes into a defensive stance as he hears the commotion ahead.

Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.): ac:17/17/10. hp:21/21. d20+4=12 ; d6+2=7 ;
Tuesday April 19th, 2022 8:43:13 PM
Mortimer's shield materializes as soon as he sees their eyes staring back at him. And there they were ... the bodies. His instincts were correct. No one leaves around that much meat and not expect others to show up for dinner.

He eagerly moves up next to Manolo to get a better look. IF he can see the water gremlin, he will shoot a ray at the aquatic, bog feeder ... but not the usual frosty one. A black, coruscating ray springs from his hand.

(Mortimer casts Ray of Enfeeblement at the water gremlin. Hit Range TouchAC: 12. Fort Save: 15 for half. Range: 30ft. Duration: 3 rounds. Damage: -7 penalty to Strength.)

Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 23/23
Tuesday April 19th, 2022 9:00:49 PM
Ash drops the rope. His weak arms weren't going to help Drack, but his spells might. He starts prepping a magic missle spell if it pops its head out.

Mole; (RichP) AC 18; HP 33/33; CMD 15
Tuesday April 19th, 2022 10:08:12 PM
Mole pulls tight on the rope, but give out slack as Drack needs it. (Mole was only going to assist Drack in getting out, but since he doesn't need it there is no reason to pull him.)

Active Spells - Barkskin (on Drack, +2 natural armor): 30 minutes

Spells
0 - Create water, Flare, Light, Stabilize
1 - Cure light wound, Detect snares and pits (c), Entangle, (d) Magic stone, Speak with Animals
2 - Barkskin (c), Delay poison, Resist energy, (d) Soften earth and stone

DM Steve -- Here is a map. -- Cast away and lets haul in a gremlin
Tuesday April 19th, 2022 10:28:21 PM
Ash drops the rope and readies a spell.
Torrynashkabbeth casts her fey shield and grabs the second net, ready to use it when she can.
Mole pulls the rope to assist Drack, but slacks off before pulling Drack back a step
Drack easily avoids the watery goo. He tries throwing a net at the gremlins. Let’s assume this is the net with the light spell.
Manolo gets in a defensive stance.
Mortimer moves up and casts a ray of enfeeblement spell.
Loryn is quiet.

Drack throws the net. As the lighted net enters the water, those with a decent angle can see into the water clearly. Mortimer tries his spell on G1, but misses.

A second gremlin pops up long enough to try the water trick on Torryn. Ash releases his spell.

In addition to actions this coming round:
* Drack needs to make a roll to hit the gremlin. The net is an exotic weapon and the target creature is underwater. So apply a non-proficiency penalty and a 20% miss chance. At least it’s a ranged touch attack, which will help.
* Torryn needs to make a DC 10 Reflex save to evade the water. Failure means she is entangled and encased in the stuff.
* Ash needs to roll damage on G2 for his magic missile.

Gremlin G1: AC 15 / Touch 13, no damage
Gremlin G2: AC 15 / Touch 13, ? damage

AC 13 HP 19/19 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K d20+4=9 ;
Tuesday April 19th, 2022 10:33:49 PM
Loryn moves up behind Drack and readies to cast a Ray of Acid at the water gremlin

Readied range touch attack Hit AC 9 of course

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 21/21 AC:20/20/16: CMD: 16. F:4; R: 6; W: 6 d20=3 ;
Wednesday April 20th, 2022 4:09:41 AM
The water enveloped Torryn! She had done her best to evade it, but her reactions fell just short of what was required. However, she did not panic. She could get free of this, surely. Or so she felt. Her plan was a simple, if overly naïve one; she'd slip free of the watery cocoon.

She gave no shout of alarm wishing to save her breath for the struggle to come.

(It is her intent to use Escape next round. If that is not applicable she's in for a shock.)

( Save: d20+6: 9!)

Drack (Chris J) - hp 30/30 - AC 15 d20+2=5 ;
Wednesday April 20th, 2022 8:28:53 AM
Drack throws the net at the water gremlin, focusing on the task at hand instead of Torry. The others will take of Torry. Drack appears to miss horribly with the net that he has never used before(ac 5), and once he confirms the miss, he will reel the net back in to reset for the next throw. As he reels it back in, he will look over at Torry to make sure that she is not in dire trouble.

Drack (Chris J) - hp 30/30 - AC 15
Wednesday April 20th, 2022 8:33:09 AM
(calculated the to hit with +3 str,, BAB +3, non proficiency -4. if this is incorrect, please advise. Additionally, the previous post should have said take care of Torry)

Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 23/23 2d4+2=8 ; 2d4+2=7 ;
Wednesday April 20th, 2022 7:06:37 PM
The two magic missles erupted from his fingers and smashed into the gremlin.. 8 dmg.

Putting his mind into the fight, he releases another Magic Missle, slamming 2 more into G2. (7dmg)

Manolo (Michael A) -- AC 17/15/12 -- CMD 17 -- HP 12/13 d20+6=15 ;
Wednesday April 20th, 2022 7:16:05 PM
Manolo looks at what is in front of him and starts to panic from the sight of the water gremlins.

perception 15

AC 13 HP 19/19 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K
Wednesday April 20th, 2022 10:12:14 PM
Internet down. Will post in the morning

Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.): ac:17/17/10. hp:21/21. d20+3=21 ;
Wednesday April 20th, 2022 10:20:50 PM
Mortimer is a bit peeved that his ray missed. He then witnesses what just happened to Torryn. He looks to Manolo, right next to him, and he see's a young man in crisis. He gives the young rogue a slight bump and states abruptly, "Oy, get out of your head. Don't let'em hold ya back, yeah!"

Mortimer then moves up behind Torryn and attempts to help her.

(I'm unsure what to roll to assist Torryn from escaping the water. Aid Another: Escape Artist: 21.)

DM Steve -- Here is a map. -- Don't let'em hold ya back, yeah!
Wednesday April 20th, 2022 11:15:07 PM
Ash casts a second magic missile.
Mortimer tries to snap Manolo out of his panic, and tries to help Torryn.
Manolo starts to panic.
Drack confirms that he missed the gremlin with the net, and hauls it back. He checks to make sure Torryn isn’t in trouble.
Torrynashkabbeth tried to evade the water, but failed. Not panicking, she now plans how to escape it.
Loryn casts ray of acid, but misses the gremlin.
Mole is quiet.

Ash’es two spells leave the one gremlin floating in the water, unmoving. It appears to be dead.

Aided by her companions, Torryn may make another DC 10 Reflex save, this one at +2. Success means she has escaped he water.

When Drack pulls the net back, he brings the light out of the water. People can no longer see what’s beneath the water surface in the pool. The surviving gremlin does not show itself this round.

Gremlin G1: AC 15 / Touch 13, no damage
Gremlin G2: AC 15 / Touch 13, dead

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 21/21 AC:20/20/16: CMD: 16. F:4; R: 6; W: 6 d20=13 ;
Thursday April 21st, 2022 3:04:44 AM
With help Torryn easily slipped the cloying watery embrace.

(D20+9: 22)

"My thanks." She said whilst grinning improbably. This was exciting and she thrived on action. So Torryn again stepped forward. She focused her new senses, seeking to determine where the evil lurked. The net she held ready, albeit decidedly clumsily.

(If the creature shows itself, she'll unleash a Fey Spark. If not, she'll throw the net in the direction of be evil. Both rolls to come next round.)

Drack (Chris J) - hp 30/30 - AC 15
Thursday April 21st, 2022 7:51:04 AM
Drack readies to throw the net again once he sees where the creature is, unless he’s asked to throw it in to light up the pool. If asked to throw it in for light, he will do so.

Mole; (RichP) AC 18; HP 33/33; CMD 15 d20+10=29 ;
Thursday April 21st, 2022 8:01:50 AM
Mole ties off the rope. He moves up. His vision will be beneficial in locating the underwater creature. He looks to see if he can see it.

Perception DC29

Active Spells - Barkskin (on Drack, +2 natural armor): 30 minutes

Spells
0 - Create water, Flare, Light, Stabilize
1 - Cure light wound, Detect snares and pits (c), Entangle, (d) Magic stone, Speak with Animals
2 - Barkskin (c), Delay poison, Resist energy, (d) Soften earth and stone

AC 13 HP 19/19 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K d20+4=8 ;
Thursday April 21st, 2022 8:02:32 AM
Loryn calls out, "I can light the pool!" and he lowers the Dancing lights to a few feet below the surface.

He readies to cast another ray at a gremlin who surfaces
Readied attack Hit AC 8 [The gnome declares adventuring not his thing and goes and becomes a farmer. good grief]

Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 23/23
Thursday April 21st, 2022 12:01:40 PM
Unsure of how deep the pool is, and figuring the gremlin had a distinct advantage of hiding, Ash casts light on a rock near him and tosses it to the pool hoping it'll go to the bottom and light the pool.. or at minimum, give them a guess of how deep the pool is.

Manolo (Michael A) -- AC 17/15/12 -- CMD 17 -- HP 12/13
Thursday April 21st, 2022 3:51:55 PM
Manolo tries to calm himself down as he sees that the party is successfully resisting the water gremlins.

Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.): ac:17/17/10. hp:21/21. d20+4=19 ; d3=1 ;
Thursday April 21st, 2022 4:58:37 PM
Mortimer looks back at Manolo with concern. He worries about him. That wouldn't have been the case a few short years ago. If Manolo had strolled into his dark alley, all prim and proper-like, he'd come out the other side bleeding from a head wound and nicked completely starkers!

He turns back to the remaining water gremlin and attempts to do the same. A frosty rays shoots from his hand.

(Mortimer casts Ray of Frost at the water gremlin. Hit TouchAC: 19. Damage: 1 cold damage, sigh!)

DM Steve -- Here is a map. -- I can light the pool!
Thursday April 21st, 2022 7:53:35 PM
Mole ties off his end of the rope and moves forward.
Drack gets his net ready for another throw, although he will use it to light the pool again if asked to.
Ash picks up a rock, casts light on it, and tosses it into the pool.
Mortimer worries about Manolo. He casts ray of frost at the water gremlin.
Loryn has the dancing lights dip into the pool to light it.
Torrynashkabbeth, with Mortimer’s help, escapes the water. Sensing evil in the water, she knows the general area to throw the net.
Manolo tries to calm himself. The others are okay.

With multiple sources of light in it, it is once again possible to easily see into the pool. As Ash’es rock sinks to the bottom, he realizes the pool is quite deep – at least thirty feet. There’s a shadow in one corner of the pool, where it recedes under the wall (darker blue on the map).

As Mortimer’s ray connects with the gremlin, he realizes he did well to hit it. Where the ray intersected the water, it appeared to bend.

For its part, the gremlin retreats from the dancing lights, sinking lower into the pool. Quite probably, it realizes what happened to its companion could happen to it.

Gremlin G1: AC 15 / Touch 13, 1 damage
Gremlin G2: AC 15 / Touch 13, dead

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 21/21 AC:20/20/16: CMD: 16. F:4; R: 6; W: 6
Thursday April 21st, 2022 8:22:05 PM
Thirty feet deep! That was undeniably beyond the reach of her net. yet it wasn't beyond her reach; not with her spear. Torryn smiled. This was exciting. More then that, it was what Sacred dancers were meant to do: stop evil from threatening the innocent. She took a deep breath, ran forward and dived into the icy water. Luckily she'd been training with Agratha and did not expel the valuable air she'd taken in as the shock of the cold hit her. She was equally fortunate that she wore so little: there was less to slow her progress downwards.

Sadly Torryn's enthusiasm had once again surpassed her abilities: at least in so far as swimming was concerned. It really wasn't her strong suit. However, her confidence in the protection accorded to her by her patrons was unflinching. What choice did she have but to risk her life for those that had done no ill? Whilst that sounded all very grand and noble, the truth was, Torryn hadn't even considered such things. The gremlin was eviul. It needed to die. Her spear would accomplish that task.

Drack (Chris J) - hp 30/30 - AC 15
Friday April 22nd, 2022 7:49:45 AM
Drack watches Torry dive in. “I knew I was going to have to go swimming” he thinks to himself.

Not willing to let her go by herself, he looks to make sure the 50’ of rope is still tied to him and tells the others “If I’m not back in 30 seconds, pull me out.” He then takes a deep breath and dives in after Torry and the gremlin.

Drack (Chris J) - hp 30/30 - AC 15
Friday April 22nd, 2022 7:51:49 AM
(Swim check is +3 if needed)

Mole; (RichP) AC 18; HP 33/33; CMD 15
Friday April 22nd, 2022 8:43:27 AM
Torryn's action has spurred action into the group. "Impulsive child." He says. He begins chanting "As an tìr, an t-uisge, an speur, agus an teine thig gu m' chòmhnadh..." This chant continues for while. "...leanabh ban-dia an uisge."

When the spell completes, those in the water feel a mass of current move through the pool.

Spontaneously cast Summon Nature Ally II (water elemental): AC17, HP13

Active Spells - Barkskin (on Drack, +2 natural armor): 30 minutes

Spells
0 - Create water, Flare, Light, Stabilize
1 - Cure light wound, Detect snares and pits (c), Entangle, (d) Magic stone, Speak with Animals
2 - Barkskin (c), Delay poison, Resist energy (c), (d) Soften earth and stone

AC 13 HP 19/19 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K
Friday April 22nd, 2022 3:26:51 PM
Loryn quips, "That's the spirit Drack." as the fighter grumbles and dives in. He might complain, but there was no questioning the young paladin's heart. Torry as well, but there was also no questioning her forward thinking, it apparently didn't exist.

Loryn smiles, the next few years or decades were going to not be dull.

The gnome lowers the Dancing lights spell to the bottom and moving up to the edge of the pool, he slides them back as the pair swim down.

"Up to them and your new friend Mole. Ash and Manolo, keep s steady hand on Dracks rope

Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.): ac:17/17/10. hp:21/21. d20+1=17 ;
Friday April 22nd, 2022 10:06:14 PM
Mortimer is a bit shocked by this unexpected turn of events. He just got through saving Torryn from some water magic ... then jumps right into the pool. He looks back at the others with disbelief. Of course, Jack goes tumbling after ... 'or was it Jill,' he thought. "I don't know," he blurts out to no one in particular? It's been a long whil since he read poetry. 'Jack grew teeth and bit her feet 'cause Jill's blood tasted sweeter.' "Yeah, that's it!"

He hears Mole speak a language he's never heard before. However he can hear the power in the words. The water begins to ripple and undulate before rushing off, leaving a swirl in its wake.

"Mole .. what was THAT?!"

Mortimer walks up to the waters edge and looks down, trying to spot who he can. He begins to cast a spell of his own. The words puff of frost on the air. The flesh of his right hand bursts into a dull blue and bitterly-cold energy. The black silhouette of the bones in his hand and wrist can be seen within.

(Mortimer casts Chill Touch. Range: Touch. Target: creature touched/ 3 attacks. He holds it charged in his hand.)

(Perception: 17, looking down in the water.)

Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 23/23
Friday April 22nd, 2022 10:40:28 PM
Ash readies another magical missle if the gremlin shows its face.

DM Steve -- Here is a map. -- Impulsive child. d4=3 ;
Saturday April 23rd, 2022 12:57:28 PM
Drack dives into the pool after Torryn, but first tells the others to be ready to pull him out in a few.
Ash readies a magic missile.
Torrynashkabbeth takes a deep breath and dives into the pool. She intends to strike the gremlin with her spear, but remembers too late that she isn’t practiced at swimming.
Loryn, seeing Torryn and Drack, realizes his life is not going to be dull. He lowers the lights in the pool in a bid to help.
Mortimer is shocked at Torryn’s act. He casts chill touch and holds it ready for use.
Mole surmises his friends might be in trouble and takes the time to summon a water elemental.
Manolo is quiet.

The others can clearly see Torryn and Drack in the water, along with the lobstery monster and some sort of distortion of the water. The scene is brightly lit from below by the rock Ash threw in earlier, and from above by Loryn’s lights.

The gremlin gestures as Torryn and Drack approach, casting a spell. Drack is held back by the rope, only able to get halfway down into the pool. The gremlin moves back toward the far corner,

Torryn, make a Will save vs DC 10 or be affected by sleep. Under present circumstances, if she fails the Will save she will be unable to act this round and will also need to make a DC 12 Constitution check. If she makes the Will save, she may try to attack.

Drack and Torryn are underwater. To attack, each must make a DC 10 Swim check. This check will also allow them to move at one quarter of their normal rate. Attacks with a piercing weapon are normal; those with other weapons take a -2 penalty to hit and do half damage.

Gremlin G1: AC 15 / Touch 13, 1 damage
Gremlin G2: AC 15 / Touch 13, dead

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 21/21 AC:20/20/16: CMD: 16. F:4; R: 6; W: 6 d20=4 ;
Saturday April 23rd, 2022 1:33:14 PM
[OOC: Torryn is half elf and immune to Sleep]

The gremlins gesture did not affect Torryn in the slightest. The water itself though; that was a different matter entirely. She thought that she'd just sink. After all, staying above water was difficult. yet with her lungs full of air, descending was not the easy matter she'd expected. Plus she also had one hand decidedly occupied in clutching her spear.

[OOC: No progress this round i am at present excelling at rolling less then 5. So Torryn stays roughly where she is.]

Drack (Chris J) - hp 30/30 - AC 15 d20+3=6 ;
Monday April 25th, 2022 9:01:10 AM
Seeing that Torry has no intention of stopping, he cuts the rope tied to him and continues down. (swim check 6. Stupid die roller)

AC 13 HP 19/19 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K
Monday April 25th, 2022 5:04:23 PM
Loryn can only watch and hope. How far can the thing flee and can the others catch it and can what Mole probably brought finish the job so they can return to the surface?

"Elemental of Water, right Mole?" asking more to give himself greater confidence and then a funny thought crosses his mind about Drack's reaction to knowing Mole could have very likely saved him a trip into the pool

Mole; (RichP) AC 18; HP 33/33; CMD 15 d20+5=23 ; d6+3=4 ;
Monday April 25th, 2022 7:59:39 PM
"Yeah." He says to Loryn.

The elemental attacks the gremlin with a fist of water.

Elemental attack: AC23, damage 4

Active Spells -
- Barkskin (on Drack, +2 natural armor): 30 minutes
- Summon Natures Ally: 2 rds

Spells
0 - Create water, Flare, Light, Stabilize
1 - Cure light wound, Detect snares and pits (c), Entangle, (d) Magic stone, Speak with Animals
2 - Barkskin (c), Delay poison, Resist energy (c), (d) Soften earth and stone

Manolo (Michael A) -- AC 17/15/12 -- CMD 17 -- HP 12/13 d20=9 ;
Monday April 25th, 2022 8:33:16 PM
Manolo moves near the water while shouting word of encouragements for Drack and Torryn.

Aid another 9

DM Steve -- Here is a map. -- Elemental of Water, right?
Monday April 25th, 2022 11:22:08 PM
Mole has the water elemental attack the gremlin.
Torrynashkabbeth shrugs off the gremlin’s magic, but has trouble swimming.
Manolo shouts encouragement to Drack and Torryn.
Loryn confirms that Mole summoned a water elemental, and wonders how Drack will react.
Drack cuts the rope holding him so he can help Torryn.
Mortimer and Ash are quiet.

The gremlin recoils, though the group can’t really see what from, and heads down into the dark corner of the pool. It moves faster than Torryn or Drack can in water, but slower than an elemental.

Torryn and Drack are in no danger from the water yet, just having a little trouble getting their bearings.

Gremlin G1: AC 15 / Touch 13, 1 damage
Gremlin G2: AC 15 / Touch 13, dead

Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 23/23
Monday April 25th, 2022 11:48:40 PM
If the Gremlin is still within the range, Ash casts sleep on it. Pulling one out of the Gremlins play book.

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 21/21 AC:20/20/16: CMD: 16. F:4; R: 6; W: 6 d20=12 ;
Tuesday April 26th, 2022 3:18:47 AM
Progress! Finally Torryn was able to comprehend some of the mysteries of moving through water. She moved deeper. She figured that if she got to the bottom, she'd be able to kick off to get back to the surface quickly. That however could wait. She still had enough air in her lungs. So with her spear leading the way she pressed on.

(OOC: It was stated that the gremlin was faster than Torryn, so I'm assuming that she cannot yet attempt an attack.)

Drack (Chris J) - hp 30/30 - AC 15 d20+3=20 ;
Tuesday April 26th, 2022 8:01:27 AM
Drack watches the gremlin go deeper, and hopes that just trying to get to it won't kill he and Torry, but since she continued, he has no choice but to do the same. He continues swimming downward after Torry(swim check 20), and makes some progress, staying right behind her. He tries to gauge how long it will take him to get to the gremlin, as he's not sure they will have enough air to make it back to the top if they get there and fight it.

Mole; (RichP) AC 18; HP 33/33; CMD 15 d20+5=22 ; d6+3=7 ;
Tuesday April 26th, 2022 8:27:20 AM
The water elemental attacks again.

Small elemental: AC 22, damage 7

While the elemental continues, Mole begins another chant "As an tìr, an t-uisge, an speur, agus an teine thig gu m' chòmhnadh..." As with the other chant, a small water elemental appears in the water once the chant is done.

Active Spells -
- Barkskin (on Drack, +2 natural armor): 30 minutes
- Summon Natures Ally x2: 1 rds; 3 rds

Spells
0 - Create water, Flare, Light, Stabilize
1 - Cure light wound, Detect snares and pits (c), Entangle, (d) Magic stone, Speak with Animals
2 - Barkskin (c), Delay poison (c), Resist energy (c), (d) Soften earth and stone

Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.): ac:17/17/10. hp:21/21.
Tuesday April 26th, 2022 9:31:20 AM
(ooc: Sorry, the Sleep spell that missed Torryn hit me instead after I got home from work. :)

Manolo (Michael A) -- AC 17/15/12 -- CMD 17 -- HP 12/13 d20+6=19 ; d20+6=17 ;
Tuesday April 26th, 2022 6:10:32 PM
Manolo stops cheering and tries to take a closer look at what is happening.

Perception 19

Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.): ac:17/17/10. hp:21/21. d20+1=11 ;
Tuesday April 26th, 2022 9:22:40 PM
Mortimer is looking around the pile of rubble for a hefty piece of stone, no more than a 20 pounds or more. One fit to hold that would send him quickly to the bottom of the pool. As he looks down into the water and makes ready to jump, he notices some distortion in the water beating the muck out of the gremlin. (Perception: 11).

He then looks back at Mole who then appears to summon another one of his water-based friends. With a shrug, Mortimer tosses the stone back into the rubble pile and states, "NOT on your nelly am I gettin' in the water with those two devils!" He is satisfied to stay on dry land and watch the beating from a distance.

DM Steve -- Here is a map. -- NOT on your nelly am I gettin' in the water with those two devils! d20+3=17 ; d20+3=20 ; d20+3=8 ; d3=1 ; d3=2 ;
Tuesday April 26th, 2022 11:03:59 PM
Torrynashkabbeth finds her bearings and manages to swim about fifteen feet closer to the gremlin.
Mole summons another elemental while the first one attacks the gremlin.
Drack follows Torryn. He figures they will be on the gremlin after another round of swimming, and feels no ill effects from holding his breath as of yet.
Manolo looks to see what’s happening.
Mortimer picks up a heavy stone to weigh him down, then decides against jumping in the water.
Ash casts sleep on the gremlin.
Loryn is contemplative.

The cold cave water is very clear, and with the light at the bottom of the pool it is easy to see most of what goes on. The tiny gremlin in its dark corner is not as easy to see as Torryn and Drack, but Ash is easily able to target it. However, the sleep spell does not affect it. It is trapped, though, as Torryn and Drack close it. The elemental tosses the smaller gremlin around in the water, but does not seem to do a lot of damage. For its own part, if the gremlin is striking back it does not seem to have any effect on the elemental.

Gremlin G1: AC 15 / Touch 13, 3 damage
Gremlin G2: AC 15 / Touch 13, dead

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 21/21 AC:20/20/16: CMD: 16. F:4; R: 6; W: 6 d20=18 ; d20=6 ;
Wednesday April 27th, 2022 3:38:57 AM
Torryn somehow maintained her progress. (Swim:18). Attacking in the alien element was another matter entirely. Her spear stabbed in roughly the correct area, but the gremlin was fast and easily avoided it. (AC: 11.)

She did her best to relax any muscles that she didn't require. The meditation training that she'd done with Agratha sprang to mind. There was no need to panic. Yet it wasn't panic that was ever the issue for Torryn. It was her over enthusiasm. She had a marked proclivity to act first and think second.

AC 13 HP 19/19 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K
Wednesday April 27th, 2022 7:17:15 AM
Loryn wills the Dancing Lights to move in right on top of Drack and Torryn. The pair have only been down there for about 20 seconds so he is not worried about them as long as they are moving and not asleep.

"Not much to do here but hope they can finish this in time." he supposes to mostly himself

Drack (Chris J) - hp 30/30 - AC 15 d20+3=7 ; d20+6=25 ;
Wednesday April 27th, 2022 10:21:52 AM
Drack continues to try and swim with Torry, but doesn't go far (swim check 7. die roller is killing me.)

As he tries to swim deeper, and fails, he tries to pay attention to what is going on with the gremlin as it gets tossed around. Perception check 25.

Mole; (RichP) AC 18; HP 33/33; CMD 15 d20+5=16 ; d6+3=8 ; d20+5=21 ; d6+3=4 ;
Wednesday April 27th, 2022 11:10:16 AM
The first elemental attacks again before returning to its home. The second elemental attacks. Mole watches the scene.

Elemental 1: AC16, damage 8; Elemental 2: AC21, damage 4

Active Spells -
- Barkskin (on Drack, +2 natural armor): 30 minutes
- Summon Natures Ally/: 2 rds

Spells
0 - Create water, Flare, Light, Stabilize
1 - Cure light wound, Detect snares and pits (c), Entangle, (d) Magic stone, Speak with Animals
2 - Barkskin (c), Delay poison (c), Resist energy (c), (d) Soften earth and stone

Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 23/23
Wednesday April 27th, 2022 12:21:48 PM
Ash is a little pressed.. unsure if the gremlin was immune to sleep, or if it was strong vs the spell, the mage decided not to waste another spell. Plus he was sure the others had this under control.

Manolo (Michael A) -- AC 17/15/12 -- CMD 17 -- HP 12/13 d20=15 ;
Wednesday April 27th, 2022 7:33:18 PM
Manolo tries to shout to Drack about movements in the water and where to swim.

aid another 15

Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.): ac:17/17/10. hp:21/21. d20+1=12 ;
Wednesday April 27th, 2022 9:34:03 PM
At the water's edge, Mortimer is content to be a spectator in the remaining moments of the fight. In fact, he positions one of the larger stones in the rubble pile and uses it as a stool to sit upon. He occasionally turns his attention away from the pool because moments like this is when big bads like to sneak in behind them.

(Perception: 12 at the room behind them.)

DM Steve -- Here is a map. -- Not much to do here but hope they can finish this in time. d20+3=16 ; d10=8 ; d3=2 ; d3=2 ; d20+3=7 ;
Wednesday April 27th, 2022 10:10:15 PM
Ash, unsure why the sleep spell didn’t work, doesn’t cast more.
Mortimer sits and watches the fight. He also does a quick scan behind the group, to be safe.
Manolo shouts suggestions about where Drack should swim.
Torrynashkabbeth continues making progress, and is in position to attack.
Loryn sends the dancing lights to help Torryn and Drack.
Mole lets the elementals attack.
Drack tries to swim deeper, but ends up watching the gremlin.

As the corner where the gremlin is gets lit up, the group sees that it has more crevices like those the other gremlins escaped through in the previous battle. This gremlin may have been headed for those, but the elementals proved too much.

The gremlin continues to take damage as it is tossed in the water – more slowly than Mole would have expected. It fighting with a creature made of water in water makes the scene a bit confusing. Drack is able to make out where the elemental is by concentrating. By his estimate, the gremlin is almost done for. Meanwhile he can tell that it is fighting back, just not effectively.

Gremlin G1: AC 15 / Touch 13, 6 damage
Gremlin G2: AC 15 / Touch 13, dead

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 21/21 AC:20/20/16: CMD: 16. F:4; R: 6; W: 6 d20=14 ; d6=3 ;
Thursday April 28th, 2022 1:28:42 AM
Torryn tried again. It was a better effort. (AC:15). With the aid of the water elemental's distraction, she'd struck true!

(3 damage, but it is a cold iron weapon, so may do more?)

Drack (Chris J) - hp 30/30 - AC 15 d20+3=11 ; d20+5=15 ; d10+4=7 ;
Thursday April 28th, 2022 7:54:48 AM
"Great. an elemental" he thinks to himself, "Hope one of our guys sent it. It looks to be on our side."

Drack will once again try to swim the final distance after Torry, and take a swing at the elemental, and finally makes some headway. After watching and seeing where the elemental was, Drack tries to take a swing at the gremlin without hitting the elemental. He just barely hits the creature, even with the water interfering in his swing(hit ac 15), Unfortunately he is not used to reduced power in the water, and only manages to do 3 points of damage with the water slowing down the rest.

Mole; (RichP) AC 18; HP 33/33; CMD 15 d20+5=18 ; d6+3=9 ; d20+10=15 ;
Thursday April 28th, 2022 9:21:43 AM
The elemental strikes again at the gremlin. Mole watches on. He can do nothing more at this point, but let his summons do their work. He just hopes it will be enough.

Elemental: AC 18, damage 9
Perception DC15

Active Spells -
- Barkskin (on Drack, +2 natural armor): 30 minutes
- Summon Natures Ally/: 1 rds

Spells
0 - Create water, Flare, Light, Stabilize
1 - Cure light wound, Detect snares and pits (c), Entangle, (d) Magic stone, Speak with Animals
2 - Barkskin (c), Delay poison (c), Resist energy (c), (d) Soften earth and stone

Manolo (Michael A) -- AC 17/15/12 -- CMD 17 -- HP 12/13
Thursday April 28th, 2022 7:45:05 PM
Manolo just watches in awe as the fight and chase continues.

Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.): ac:17/17/10. hp:21/21. d20+1=12 ;
Thursday April 28th, 2022 8:51:13 PM
As Mortimer waits for the inevitable conclusion to this fish in a barrel, he catches himself almost scratching his head with the hand charged with frosty, dark magics. He's not sure what would have happened. He's never used this spell before. He's never seen the bones in his hand before either. He hopes his normal flesh returns when the spell ends. He considers touching himself with it ... his curiosity has gotten him into trouble countless times. If the dead gremlin is within reach, he will touch it and see what happens.

(Perception: 12)

Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 23/23
Thursday April 28th, 2022 9:56:07 PM
Ash smirks at the destruction of the elemental is causing. He loves the fact one of his allies is the one controlling it. "Good.... very good. " he mutters to himself.

DM Steve -- Here is a map. -- It looks to be on our side.
Friday April 29th, 2022 12:06:31 AM
Manolo watches in awe.
Torrynashkabbeth strikes true with her attack.
Ash enjoys watching the struggle.
Drack closes on the creature and attacks.
Mortimer worries about that last spell.
Mole watches on.
Loryn is quiet.

The onslaught this round is too much for the gremlin. It's hard to say which blow killed it, but it is dead.

With the gremlin dead, it becomes obvious that it's nest is in this corner. A glint of metal reveals there are half a dozen darts among the fist-sized rocks that cover the bottom of the pool.

Torryn and Drack are still deep in the pool. It will take two swim checks to reach the surface. Fortunately, they have plenty of time to try.

Go ahead and roll up to six attempts or until two are successful if they go up or three are successful if they retrieve the darts first.

Gremlin G1: AC 15 / Touch 13, dead
Gremlin G2: AC 15 / Touch 13, dead

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 21/21 AC:20/20/16: CMD: 16. F:4; R: 6; W: 6 6d20=62 ; d20=12 ; d20=6 ; d20=16 ;
Friday April 29th, 2022 4:01:02 AM
The darts would have to wait. Torryn had one hand full of spear. She did not fancy her chances of escaping the water with her other one also burdoned. Strangely, the ascending proved easier. Perhaps she was becoming accustomed to swimming!

She broke the surface and took in a grateful gasp of air. Planting her spear on the side, Torryn pulled herself out of the pool.

"It is dead. I did see some darts there, but, well...... I can't actually swim properly.". She informed them domewhat embarrassed by her impulsivity. Torryn then called upon her magic to dry her clothes and then her hair.

(Mending)

Drack (Chris J) - hp 30/30 - AC 15 d20+3=15 ; d20+3=17 ; d20+3=19 ; d20+3=13 ; d20+3=6 ; d20+3=4 ;
Friday April 29th, 2022 9:11:11 AM
Drack moves to retrieve whatever is in the gremlins nest, and then heads towards the surface(first four checks succeeded). He breaks the water shortly after Torry, and pulls himself out, looking quite grumpy and very wet. After a few moments he will speak his mind to the group.

"We all need to really work on our communication. First, Torry.. nobody is going into battle without me being in front of or besides them, so where you go, I go. Just something to keep in mind."

"Second, If someone had the ability to create a water creature to go down and deal with the gremlin, we should have known about it before diving into the water after the gremlin."

"Third, can someone please dry me off. This leather armor really chafes when it's wet."

Drack sets the 6 darts on the ground. "I'm sure one of you can figure out if these are worth anything."

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 21/21 AC:20/20/16: CMD: 16. F:4; R: 6; W: 6
Friday April 29th, 2022 5:55:41 PM
"Don't be a grouch, Dracky. I'll try to be less impulsive, but...well, it's a struggle most of the time. Plus, I thought we did well. That was good team work. Oh, and thanks for not letting me drown." Torryn finished by giving Crack a gentle kiss on the cheek. She then set about magically drying him off. She could easily assess whether the darts were magical, but equally there were many others in the group that also do it and she was busy drying the grumpy Drack. Torryn was happy. Even Drack's entirely justified ire couldn't quell her smile. She'd succeeded!

Manolo (Michael A) -- AC 17/15/12 -- CMD 17 -- HP 12/13 d20+6=9 ;
Friday April 29th, 2022 7:45:12 PM
Manolo takes a quick look for a possible ambush or a hidden entrance/exit.
Meanwhile, Manolo shouts cheers for what seems a successful skirmish against the gremlins.

Perception 9

Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.): ac:17/17/10. hp:21/21. d20+1=21 ;
Friday April 29th, 2022 10:43:07 PM
Mortimer shakes his hand, dismissing the spell he had cast. The flesh returns to his hand, but it seems the magic has left a slight stain upon his fingers. They appear slighter darker in tone. He hopes it wears off.

He's happy the two water gremlins have been dispatched. He sarcastically wishes they are enjoying the other side. Noting the variety of gremlins they have encountered, he tries to recall if any of them look like the first gremlin they killed. The one that almost killed him!

Mortimer starts to rummage through the pile of corpses, that were the food of these last two. He's trying to discern if there are any remains of the gremlin that look like the ones who could appear like human children; the ones from Agartha's lynching. If not, there are at least two more gremlin out there.

(Perception: 21, natural 20! For his examination of the corpses.)

Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 23/23
Friday April 29th, 2022 11:26:24 PM
Ash moves to the pool and helps anyone coming to the surface and needs aid out.

Mole; (RichP) AC 18; HP 33/33; CMD 15
Saturday April 30th, 2022 12:37:40 AM
"I'm a miner, not a diver." he says to Drack. "It's the first time I summoned them."

Spells
0 - Create water, Flare, Light, Stabilize
1 - Cure light wound, Detect snares and pits (c), Entangle, (d) Magic stone, Speak with Animals
2 - Barkskin (c), Delay poison (c), Resist energy (c), (d) Soften earth and stone

AC 13 HP 19/19 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K d20+6=25 ;
Saturday April 30th, 2022 10:24:21 AM
Loryn just smiles, that went about like he was expecting and he didn't have anything to add. He will cast Detect Magic and assist Torry with the darts
Arcane Knowledge 25

"You have yourself a cave system Mole. Fresh water and everything, though you'll probably want to fish the corpses out and see about cleaning it up before drinking anything, but a good start"

Loryn calls the Dancing lights back up to the surface, they'll be gone in a another couple minutes. He still had the torch though. "Maybe one last walk through, make sure we have not overlooked anything and then back to Minerva's for lunch."

DM Steve -- I'll try to be less impulsive, but...
Saturday April 30th, 2022 11:03:54 AM
Drack retrieves the darts and swims up after Torryn. He’s a bit grumpy about a couple of points on coordinating their attacks, and being in wet leather.
Torrynashkabbeth decides to leave the darts, and swims up easier than she expected. Once she’s out of the water she dries herself and later Drack with magic. She has a sense of accomplishment.
Manolo checks for an ambush while cheering the successful skirmish.
Ash helps Torryn and Drack out of the pool.
Mole admits this is the first time he’s summoned water elementals.
Mortimer dismisses the spell he had prepared, and starts investigating to make sure all the gremlins they have seen are accounted for.
Loryn is quiet again.

Torryn is able to get herself and Drack passably dry with her spell – no damage is done, but they are still a little damp. Manolo finds no sign of other gremlins waiting, and Mortimer finds the creatures they killed when they were here last, but no others among the corpses. In particular, there are no bodies of creatures that could have passed as children unless magic were involved. There is the gnome-sized, clawed beast that probably killed Ballo; five thin and tiny ones of the sort that set the deadfall for the group; one of the tiny dog-like ones that escaped through the crevices in the large room. Now they have two tiny lobster-dogs in the water as well. The small creature that was with the dog-like ones left no body when it detonated. Although the group may not have killed every gremlin that lived here, there is no sign that any that may have fled have come back. As the search ranges to the rest of the cave it becomes pretty clear that the fungus growing on the bedding would not be obvious had the bedding continued to be used.

The darts, when someone checks, are not magic.

(OOC:
* No XP for this battle, but everyone earns a hero point.
* The group may return to the boarding house without problems.)

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 21/21 AC:20/20/16: CMD: 16. F:4; R: 6; W: 6
Sunday May 1st, 2022 6:31:41 PM
Torryn decided that it would be wise to continue to use her magic to dry both her and Drack. She called upon her "fey" magic until the dampness vanished. Still, whilst she was proud of what she'd achieved, Drack's words resonated. They were words that she'd heard many times before. Stop and think before you act! For Al of Agratha's teachings Torryn was still far too impulsive.

Mole; (RichP) AC 18; HP 33/33; CMD 15
Sunday May 1st, 2022 10:17:43 PM
"That I do." He says to Loryn.

Spells
0 - Create water, Flare, Light, Stabilize
1 - Cure light wound, Detect snares and pits (c), Entangle, (d) Magic stone, Speak with Animals
2 - Barkskin (c), Delay poison (c), Resist energy (c), (d) Soften earth and stone

Drack (Chris J) - hp 30/30 - AC 15
Monday May 2nd, 2022 7:54:11 AM
"Thanks for the drying Torry. Looks like Minerva's it is."

Drack will head back with the others, and change out of his leather armor.

AC 13 HP 19/19 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K
Monday May 2nd, 2022 10:14:34 AM
Loryn has a skip in his step as they return to Minerva's, though he did not do too much during the fight, the group that he was part of did and now his newish friend Mole had a place to start making all dwarf like. Not bad at all.

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 21/21 AC:16/16/12 CMD: 16. F:4; R: 6; W: 6
Monday May 2nd, 2022 11:18:57 AM
On the way back Torryn considered the need to learn to swim. It seemed like a wise thing to do, but she had so very much to learn in such a short amount of time. Something else would have to give if she was going to acquire that skill and it wasn't going to be her dancing! What sort of Sacred Dancer would she be if she could only dance passably well?

Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.): ac:17/17/10. hp:21/21.
Monday May 2nd, 2022 12:07:58 PM
Mortimer explains his assessment after his examination of the half-eaten corpses. He stands up from the mutilated pile with the severed, black claw of the gnome-sized gremlin still in his hand. He gives it a quick sniff. After hearing Loryn's suggestion to go back and have lunch, he nonchalantly tosses the claw back down in the pile, and replies, "Yeah, I can eat. Feelin' quite peckish all of a sudden."

Manolo (Michael A) -- AC 17/15/12 -- CMD 17 -- HP 12/13
Monday May 2nd, 2022 6:43:20 PM
Manolo agrees to go back to safety.
"What do you think happened with the other gremlins? ", he asks everybody.

Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 23/23
Monday May 2nd, 2022 8:20:02 PM
"Probably victims of canibalism " Ash answers Manolo. "Nothing wasted".

The tall mage pulls Oslo out, and pets him while strolling back.

DM BatMark -- The Partyz Back in Town
Monday May 2nd, 2022 8:25:19 PM
Drack is happy to be dry and is ready to head to Minverva’s and get out of his leathers.
Torrynashkabbeth finishes drying the damp party members, and reflects on the wise counsel of Drack and Agratha. She weighs the relative benefits of dancing and swimming, and apparently decides to drown with balletic grace next time.
Manolo is ready to head back, but wonders about the few gremlins that remain unaccounted for.
Ash comments darkly on gremlin cannibalism, and pets Oslo as he heads back to town.
Mole agrees with Loryn.
Mortimer gives his assessment of the gremlins, and proves that his cast-iron stomach has mastered death, or at least become inured to its grotesqueries.
Loryn skips back to Minerva’s, content with the outcome of the fight.

The party makes its way back to town without further drama, at least until arriving back at Minerva’s. There in the common room is Phaedra (captain of the Windgard) and a human woman that the locals in the party recognize as Edwina Pippin, the mayor. The mayor is sitting with Minerva at a table, holding her hands and somehow both smiling and crying. Phaedra stands behind them awkwardly, shifting from foot to foot. There is a parchment scroll on the table, with a broken seal, along with a moderately full belt pouch.

Minerva seems at a loss, looking back and forth from the parchment to the mayor. When she sees you come in, she gathers herself and proclaims, ”I suppose I have much to think on tomorrow, but for now, our heroes return and need their replenishment and rest.” With that, she rises, and comes over to see what the party requires, calling for her helper to assist.

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 21/21 AC:16/16/12 CMD: 16. F:4; R: 6; W: 6
Tuesday May 3rd, 2022 3:04:08 AM
"What is happening here?" Torryn asked quietly, entirely unsure what to make of the scene. Parchments though, magic was often placed upon such, so she peered at it engaging her fey sight.

(Torryn will surreptitiously deploy Detect Magic out of curiosity.)

Drack (Chris J) - hp 30/30 - AC 15
Tuesday May 3rd, 2022 6:47:47 AM
"Drinks and food can wait Minerva. unless it's none of our business, what is happening?"

Mole; (RichP) AC 18; HP 33/33; CMD 15
Tuesday May 3rd, 2022 7:10:38 AM
Mole finds a seat. One of the others will find out what is going on. Right now, some food and drink are what he wants.

Manolo (Michael A) -- AC 17/15/12 -- CMD 17 -- HP 12/13 d20+6=17 ; d20+6=12 ;
Tuesday May 3rd, 2022 7:40:57 PM
Manolo tries to listen more to what is being said or conveyed.

Perception 17
Sense Motive 12

DM BatMark -- Minerva's Last Call
Tuesday May 3rd, 2022 8:40:39 PM
Drack waives off the food and drink in favor of finding out what is going on.
Torrynashkabbeth wonders what is going on here, and tries to surreptitiously cast detect magic. Torryn Highlight to display spoiler: { You can tell that the parchment is not magic. Phaedra has some minor auras around her gear, not too surprising for the head of the local guards.}
Manolo listens more to what is being said, looking for hidden meaning, but finds none.
Mole on the other hand is all about the food and drink, others can figure out this social situation.
Ash, Mortimer, and Loryn wait to see what happens next.

Phaedra reflexively tenses when Torryn starts to cast a spell, but must trust you because she just lets it happen. Minerva’s helper brings food and drink to those who want it, as Minerva herself takes her seat again when the party presses for the story. With a bit of a smile, and more than a tear or two in her eye, she offers, ”Dear Ballo, the gods rest his soul, has done me a fine turn, even in death. He apparently left this new will with the officials of the keep, and I have received most of his wealth, on the condition that I finally follow my dream to travel to Edenmoor. It will be hard to leave this place behind in some ways, but after all that has happened, perhaps it is time for me to pull up stakes and take on a new challenge. Ah, poor, wonderful, confounding Ballo!”

Phaedra and Edwina are still hanging about, perhaps unsure whether the matter is resolved.

Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.): ac:17/17/10. hp:21/21.
Tuesday May 3rd, 2022 9:25:15 PM
The smiling and crying confuses him. He doesn't, at first, understand how to react to it. He wonders, is she happy or sad? These opposing displays of emotion doesn't make sense. He looks to the others trying to get a read of the room.

Then all is explained. "Ohhh!" So this is a good thing, he thinks! Then why is she crying? As he sits down and begins his well-deserved meal and a pint, he continues ponder other thoughts with a smile. 'Good thing,' he thinks, 'I was planning on cleaning out Ballo's place after these bum muppets came to a sticky end.' A satisfying smile forms across his face. "Bravo, Minerva! Good for you ... you deserve it!"

Drack (Chris J) - hp 30/30 - AC 15
Wednesday May 4th, 2022 5:14:40 AM
“Yes Minerva, I was imagining something more horrible had happened. It’s obviously a big decision whichever way you wish to decide.”

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 21/21 AC:16/16/12 CMD: 16. F:4; R: 6; W: 6
Wednesday May 4th, 2022 6:45:37 AM
Torryn rushed up and embraced Minerva in a hug. She then released her and smiled.
"Of course you must go. It was what Ballo wished and - I'm thinking he didn't just pluck that notion from the air at random. You'll be sorely missed and I know that change is always frightening, but it isn't always bad. So, just do what's best for YOU. Your decision won't hurt anyone else; so you have a clear conscience there." She smiled again and then whispered more conspiratorially "Once you've slept on it you'll find it's really quite exciting."
Filled with excitement Torryn skipped away to half hide behind a tall chair. Grinning broadly she declared that this merited a party and that there should be dancing!

AC 13 HP 19/19 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K
Wednesday May 4th, 2022 7:58:32 AM
Loryn nods as Minerva explains, seems a fine enough turn. Torry's proclamation gets his attention,

"Are there occasions that don't?" he asks playfully

Turning back to Minerva he does have a question, "Is Edenmoor very far and is the road dangerous at all that you might want or need trusted companions on the journey?"

As some food and drinks are brought out, Loryn picks a pint and a bowl of soup and sits back to enjoy the spontaneous entertainment of Torry's dancing

Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 23/23
Wednesday May 4th, 2022 12:46:36 PM
"Congrats?" Ash asks and states at the same time, unsure if the move is what she wants. Ash takes his drink, and sits down fast, not wanting to be a part of any dancing. Not that he didn't enjoy merriment, but more he was scared to trip over a chair and make a dunce of himself.

Manolo (Michael A) -- AC 17/15/12 -- CMD 17 -- HP 12/13 d20=7 ;
Wednesday May 4th, 2022 6:05:53 PM
Manolo understands that someone dies but doesn't say anything.

He tries to recall anything interesting about Edenmoor.

d20=7

Mole; (RichP) AC 18; HP 33/33; CMD 15 d20+10=19 ;
Wednesday May 4th, 2022 10:07:44 PM
Mole listens with an ear to the conversation while eating. Thoughts of a party brings out a hrumph from the dwarf.

Perception DC19

Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.): ac:17/17/10. hp:21/21.
Wednesday May 4th, 2022 10:41:20 PM
Mortimer leans over to Mole and asks, “Ya think you can summon an ale-lemental?”

DM BatMark -- Good night
Wednesday May 4th, 2022 10:43:27 PM
Drack is relieved that nothing horrible has happened.
Torrynashkabbeth offers excited commentary and starts an impromptu dance party.
Loryn teases Torryn about the dancing, because of course she started a dance party. He asks whether Edenmoor is far away, and does Minerva need companions for the journey.
Manolo keeps his own counsel on the dead
Ash takes his eat and drink, careful not to trip in an embarrassing way as the dancing starts.
Mole harrumphs a bit at all the festivities.
Mortimer sorts through the conflicting emotions of the moment and congratulates Minerva.

In response to Loryn's query, Minerva notes that Edenmoor, while much farther away than she has ever gone, is really only maybe a week’s travel to the south on the road to Izen. She appreciates the offer, but wouldn’t want to put you out and is quite sure that she can join a safe merchant caravan for the journey. It is supposed to be an exciting place to visit, and maybe even set up a new life! ”I will miss you all, of course, and will always be grateful to you for your help. I’ve arranged with the mayor for you to still have free rooms here, even after the hamlet takes over the boarding house.” The mayor nods, not at all grudgingly. Apparently, you have earned a bit of a good reputation hereabouts, what with running off the gremlins, wrestling pigs, and generally making a name for yourselves!

Phaedra and the mayor take their leave, and Minerva declares that she is off to bed as well, the better to meet the new day and the adventure that it brings. You are welcome to continue to enjoy the common room, head to bed, or pursue other interests at your leisure.

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 21/21 AC:16/16/12 CMD: 16. F:4; R: 6; W: 6
Thursday May 5th, 2022 7:06:00 AM
Well Torryn was not about to give up dancing that quickly! She gyrates her way over to Ash and slowly revolving performs a belly-dance-style booty shake, all the while giggling merrily.

"Come, Ash. You want to dance with me. Don't you?" Torryn was determined to get as many dancing as possible. If she couldn't persuade Ash - and she could be very persuasive - she's move on. Surely Mole wanted to dance.

Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 23/23
Thursday May 5th, 2022 8:58:21 AM
Ash stares in amazement, knowing full well he couldn't dance to save his life. " As much as I would like to put a smile on everyones face, with my bad moves... I must pass. Ale, and food call my name. "

Mole; (RichP) AC 18; HP 33/33; CMD 15 d20-1=4 ;
Thursday May 5th, 2022 9:52:17 AM
Mole watches Torryn harass Ash to dance with her to no avail. He sees her eyeing him. He takes a big bit of meat and a bigger drink of ale, but he can see she will not be dissuaded.

"FINE! Ya blasted woman. Don't say I didn't warn ya." Mole gets up, takes one more drink before moving off to dance with Torryn. To sum up his dancing in one word...Horrid. He stomps, stumbles, and nearly knocks everyone and everything over. In fact it would be hard to described what he was doing dancing.

After a few minutes of it and lots of laughs and jeers from onlookers, Mole's had enough. "Warned ya, didn't I." With that over, he moves back to his table, sits, and shouts "More ale!"

Perform(Dancing) DC4

AC 13 HP 19/19 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K d20+2=4 ;
Thursday May 5th, 2022 11:12:59 AM
Loryn thanks Minerva and assures her that they will meet again and especially in the morning to see her off. The gnome starts his mind to making a grand send off breakfast, Minerva deserved that and he catches Phaedra and the mayor as they leave to tell them of his plan and if they could spread the invite about town he would be most grateful.

Upon returning he spies the end of Mole's 'dancing'. Loryn's eyes go wide and his mouth draws up to an 'OH' The gnome would not describe Mole's dancing as bad, but more like aggressive. It screamed I am dwarf all over it. He's only seen dwarf dance 1 other time and it was a group of them jostling about in a kind of pit. Well not really a pit, just what they called the area the 'dancing' occurred in

He smiles at the thought and at what is finishing in front of him. Not afraid of a good laugh, Loryn jumps in and quickly displays an equal ineptitude to the art of dance
Perform Dance 4

After a few minutes of more awfulness from the gnome, he slides over to Ash, "See you big chicken. Nothing to it"

Drack (Chris J) - hp 30/30 - AC 15
Thursday May 5th, 2022 4:43:59 PM
Drack wishes Minerva well, and thanks her and the Mayor for seeing to their accommodations.

The Paladin starts relaxing and enjoying himself until Torry starts trying to get people to dance. Once she talks Mole into it, Drack can only think “better him, than me.”

Manolo (Michael A) -- AC 17/15/12 -- CMD 17 -- HP 12/13 d20=17 ; d20=16 ;
Thursday May 5th, 2022 7:55:01 PM
Manolo chuckles when he sees Loryn and Mole dancing knowing very well he can't dance but stands up from his seat and tries to dance anyway.

Dance #1 17
Dance #2 16 (if needed)

DM BatMark -- Farewell and Hello, Who Is this?
Thursday May 5th, 2022 10:06:33 PM
Torrynashkabbeth tries again to lure Ash into dancing, unsuccessfully, and tries with Mole.
Ash is amazed by Torryn’s forwardness, but still politely declines.
Mole dwarfs up and rises to Torryn’s challenge, and puts on a display of painful awkwardness for the history books.
Loryn, not to be outdone, shows that two out of three small humanoid species can’t dance.
Manolo gives dancing a go, and actually pulls off some nice moves!
Drack wishes Minerva well, thanks the mayor, and quietly is happy that it is the others dancing so badly.
Mortimer

Eventually the evening’s festivities wind down, after hearty clapping along as Torryn and Manolo bust some moves. The night passes without event unless the party creates one. In the morning, with sore legs for the dancers and mildly throbbing heads for the drinkers in the party, the delicious aroma of breakfast wafting into the rooms. Loryn, helped by the staff and other villagers who show up to assist, has prepared a magnificent going away feast for Minerva. It really is something to behold. Other villagers wander in, and eventually the mayor and other potentates arrive as well. Minerva comes from her room with a pack, a sack, and a look of surprise to see all the fuss in the place. She again leaks a few tears of joy at all the attention. There is much good cheer, boisterous well-wishing, and eventually a farewell as Minvera takes her things to join a passing caravan headed south. She thanks the party again for all that you have done for her and the town, before climbing aboard a wagon and heading down the road.

As the breakfast party winds down, you notice that a tall, thin middle-aged man has left the caravan and approached the boarding house. He has plain but well-crafted grey robes, a weather-beaten traveler’s hat, and a pin with three interlocking rings of gold. He strides up, takes a look around and inquires, ”I seek the small glittering one, among a group of gremlin slayers. Or something like that, words are often misshapen after traveling far across the Wold. In any event, do you know where I might find such a fellow? I should like to speak to him and his companions on a matter of great import.” His eyes alight on Loryn, and he raises an eyebrow in interest…

Drack (Chris J) - hp 30/30 - AC 15
Thursday May 5th, 2022 10:16:45 PM
Drack will step forward to respond to the stranger in a somewhat protective tone. “Well, the seven of us”, pointing to the group, “ have been slaying gremlins recently. As far as small, there are a couple, but none I would consider glittery. What would your business be with them?”.

Drack (Chris J) - hp 30/30 - AC 15
Thursday May 5th, 2022 10:22:15 PM
Drack, realizing that he probably came came across as a little hostile tries to fix his social inexperience. “Or perhaps I should restate that in a less defensive manner. What is it you would speak with us about?”

Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 23/23 d20+5=10 ;
Thursday May 5th, 2022 10:56:09 PM
Ash tries to figure out if the Pin is some groups symbol, but his studies didn't venture to that aspect to often, and he was left in the dark.

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 21/21 AC:16/16/12 CMD: 16. F:4; R: 6; W: 6
Friday May 6th, 2022 3:31:35 AM
Torryn was far from aching come the morning. She was a dancer and by her standards there really hadn't been that much dancing. Nonetheless, she rose early and completed Agratha's full regimen of stretches before assisting with the breakfast banquet.

The stranger's enquiry was clearly directed towards Loryn. The gnome was a Glitterfall. It could only be he that the stranger sought. She said nothing. Loryn had a far better way with words than she. Torryn much preferred to let her feet and body do her talking.

AC 13 HP 19/19 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K
Friday May 6th, 2022 10:07:27 AM
Loryn is terribly pleased with himself on the outcome of the breakfast farewell and hands Minerva 'a little something for the road.' Within the folded sack cloth is a fresh loaf of soda bread. A wink and a smile later he is off to see if anyone needs anything. Minerva and the caravan head out and the gnome's attention is caught by the man in the grey cloak.

His smile almost cannot be hidden as Drack steps in. No denying his protective call from Domi

Loryn peers up at the human, "I am Loryn Glitterfall and so may fit your description aptly enough. My companions and I are just finishing a send off to a good friend and if you can spare a few moments for us to clean up and the kitchen is still open for breakfast if you wish to put in an order."

Loryn will excuse himself so that he may indeed clean up a bit, or at least get the clean up process underway before circling back to have a seat, quite interested in what this might be all about

Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.): ac:17/17/10. hp:21/21.
Friday May 6th, 2022 4:31:22 PM
When the strange stranger addresses the gorup, Mortimer wonders how did Loryn become so famous. He doesn't care for the gremlin slayer title either ... sounds like a glorified rat catcher. It doesn't have the gravitas of gravedigger. He pours another pint and waits to hear what this stranger has to say.

Mole; (RichP) AC 18; HP 33/33; CMD 15
Friday May 6th, 2022 4:39:14 PM
Mole observes the situation.

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 21/21 AC:16/16/12 CMD: 16. F:4; R: 6; W: 6
Friday May 6th, 2022 7:01:04 PM
Torryn felt it more important to clear things up: cutlery, food and anything else that merited her attention. Her simple fey magic was most useful to this task. Certainly, she felt that she was contributing more in that fashion than were she to sit with Loryn and add meaningfully to the discussion with the stranger. So it was that she busied herself tidying and cleaning. She had no doubt that the outcome of the meeting would be explained when it was convenient to do so.

Manolo (Michael A) -- AC 17/15/12 -- CMD 17 -- HP 12/13 d20+6=25 ;
Friday May 6th, 2022 8:36:05 PM
Manolo tries discern this man motives.

sense motive 25

DM BatMark -- Seeking Knowledge
Friday May 6th, 2022 8:59:39 PM
Drack steps forward protectively, but not with hostility.
Torrynashkabbeth was blessedly free from any ill effects of the dancing, unlike some of her more rigid companions. She catches on to the stranger’s reference to Loryn Glitterfall and waits for others to speak.
Ash looks at the stranger’s pin. Ash Highlight to display spoiler: {the pin is the symbol of the Sage’s Guild, which you know is dedicated to seeking out, storing, and sharing lore. It’s gold construction implies a fairly high rank in the Guild.}
Mole observers the situation as it unfolds.
Mortimer thinks ‘gravedigger’ has more gravitas than gremlin slayer, but pours another pint to hear what the stranger has to say.
Loryn is justifiably pleased with the excellence of the breakfast, and appreciates Drack stepping forward as Domi would have it. He introduces himself, and offers the stranger breakfast before getting down to business.
Manolo tries to discern the stranger’s motives. Manolo Highlight to display spoiler: {He seems genuinely interested in talking to the party, and what he says next rings true.}

The stranger welcomes the breakfast, and inquires as to the spices and techniques that made such a wonderful repast. ”If you please, I’d like the recipe, this is valuable knowledge to be shared with chefs across the Peninsula and beyond!” Once all hungers are sated, and the other villagers have returned to their normal daily business, he glances around the room, as if to be certain that only the party remains. Satisfied, he continues, ”Thank you for this fine welcome. I am Professor Crumblecore, an official of the Sage’s Guild, based in Plateau city. I was traveling in the area on other business when word reached me of various goings-on here in Windhorn Hamlet. I was already intrigued, what with the connection with the home of the storied Grey Knights, but also heard rumor that a mysterious ring had been found, and possibly the cause of mischief. Knowing the fey to be involved, I became concerned that more trouble might emerge from lore released unknowingly, and hastened here to evaluate the situation. So tell me, have I misjudged things, or can you add to the tales that I have heard?”

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 21/21 AC:16/16/12 CMD: 16. F:4; R: 6; W: 6
Saturday May 7th, 2022 6:19:39 AM
Torryn really didn't know what to say. More precisely, she didn't know where to begin. So she continued to busy herself, invoking minor Fey magic magic (Mage Hand and Mending) to expedite the clear up. She trusted the others to explain correctly. Well, maybe not so much Dracky: he did seem rather abrupt since his apotheosis. He meant well though, but so did Mole and he could be just as abrupt! Such thought made her smile - The Drack and Mole Diplomacy School. That would have a very short curriculum! She almost laughed out loud, but managed to contain her mirth, quickly facing away from the others in order to ostensibly finish cleaning.

Looking around, she realised that there really wasn't much else left to clean. She'd no doubt be expected to participate. If only dancing were involved. She was good at dancing.

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 21/21 AC:16/16/12 CMD: 16. F:4; R: 6; W: 6
Saturday May 7th, 2022 6:19:44 AM
Torryn really didn't know what to say. More precisely, she didn't know where to begin. So she continued to busy herself, invoking minor Fey magic magic (Mage Hand and Mending) to expedite the clear up. She trusted the others to explain correctly. Well, maybe not so much Dracky: he did seem rather abrupt since his apotheosis. He meant well though, but so did Mole and he could be just as abrupt! Such thought made her smile - The Drack and Mole Diplomacy School. That would have a very short curriculum! She almost laughed out loud, but managed to contain her mirth, quickly facing away from the others in order to ostensibly finish cleaning.

Looking around, she realised that there really wasn't much else left to clean. She'd no doubt be expected to participate. If only dancing were involved. She was good at dancing.

Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 23/23
Sunday May 8th, 2022 8:16:36 PM
Ash follows Torryn's lead and watches her cast spells, noting how easily she does it.

"Our dealings were with a group of Gremlins, various species. They took refuge in a cave, and were reaking Havoc on the town. "

AC 13 HP 19/19 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K
Monday May 9th, 2022 10:16:32 AM
"Welcome to Minerva's Professor Crumblecore. A pleasure to have a member of the Sage's Guild here with us in Windhorne."

Loryn smiles and looks at Ash as he provides a short summary of the recent events and chuckles. That was certainly the short version.

Loryn waves his hands dismissively at the mention of the ring, "No, no. The ring was not the cause, twas the gremlins. We encountered evidence all over about them. But we firmly believe that we have seen the last of any mischief from that particular direction."

Loryn was still concerned about the man who seemed very intent on burning Agatha at the stake and his unknown associates that were lurking in the woods that night. That was something he would not be forgetting soon if ever until that mystery was solved.

His mind snaps back to the present,

"Adding to the tales, well hard to say without knowing what you heard , but there was a pair of ogres that came into town not too long ago as well. We were thinking they were part of the gremlins mischief at the time. 1 is still, I think, within the cells of the keep. He told a tale of a young human girl, who gave he and his ogre friend several casks of ale in return to come and storm the party that was going on. We know it could have been no human girl from Windhorne, or anywhere else for that matter, and so we fell into thinking a shapechanger or gremlin under a guising spell."

he glances about at his friends, "I think that covers it, right?"

so the professor he asks, "So how in the great wide Wold did you hear of me specificall."? I am just a gnome of no great importance in this great Wold?"

Drack (Chris J) - hp 30/30 - AC 15
Monday May 9th, 2022 10:56:53 AM
Drack simply watches, at the ready, and let's Loryn handle the talking. He makes a mental note to himself that he will need to work on his mannerism's and formalities in the future. It wouldn't serve Domi very well if he were offending everyone he talked to.

Mole; (RichP) AC 18; HP 33/33; CMD 15
Monday May 9th, 2022 4:13:19 PM
Mole continues to observe the situation.

Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.): ac:17/17/10. hp:21/21. d20=1 ;
Monday May 9th, 2022 4:58:24 PM
'A gnome of no great importance,' Mortimer holds back a laugh and takes a long sip from his pint. He sits back and lets the others engage the stranger. He's never trusted these blatherskiting toffs and their secret societies. He's after the ring, plain and simple. He called out Loryn by name ... how did he know he had the ring? He knows more than what he's letting on.

(Sense Motive: 1)

However, Mortimer can't get a proper read on the stranger. Either he's got magic blinding his senses or he's had too much to drink. So he'll have to rely on his previously established prejudices.

(Backstory: Mortimer knows nothing about his family history, but much of his mistrust was bred into him by his bloodline. Most of his family history has been lost to time. There may be a written records still in existence, in some ancient tome or scroll. However such knowledge of the Margrave family and their descendants are locked in the libraries of loremasters or tucked away in hidden places. Mortimer simply has no idea that his once great and infamous family were hunted down and slaughtered by people like this.)

Manolo (Michael A) -- AC 17/15/12 -- CMD 17 -- HP 12/13
Monday May 9th, 2022 6:30:29 PM
Manolo scratches his head as the others explain and asks the sage, "So what ring are you looking for ? How does it look like ? What is it that makes it very important and perhaps dangerous ?", Manolo asks calmly with a interested tone, firing question after another.

DM BatMark -- Yes, offer me the ring, small one...
Monday May 9th, 2022 8:45:24 PM
Drack watches and holds his tongue, lest he disrupt the proceedings in a way incompatible with Domi’s will.
Torrynashkabbeth busiedf herself with cleaning (magically!) and trusted some of the others to carry on the discussion.
Manolo asks what ring the fellow is looking for and what makes it dangerous.
Ash follows Torryn’s lead and watches her magic. He describes some of the quest against the gremlins.
Mole continues to observe the situation.
Mortimer is suspicious, but unsure, of the stranger.
Loryn welcomes the Professor, and describes in more detail some of the threats to the hamlet. He asks how the Professor knew of him.

The Professor amiably if succinctly answers your questions. ”Well, I wasn’t looking for Master Glitterfall here originally, but various rumors came to my ears and so I came to investigate. A ring found, mysterious fires, fey all around–I thought perhaps there was a curse at work, perhaps connected to this ring. It is a trope in all those plays for a reason, after all! So you did find a ring then? Would you like me to examine it, in order to make sure that it is not one of the sources of mischief here? Such lore can be dangerous when the fey are involved, after all. Do you wish you had never seen the thing? Or ask why it came to you? Or why you were chosen? Such questions can be answered. If it is a menace, I am authorized by the Guild to offer you a fair price for it, that the dangerous lore be removed for safekeeping, unused. Knowledge is generally to be shared, but even that principle has some limits–some things are not meant for mortal folk. The decision lies with you, but I will help you with this burden, if you allow it.”

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 21/21 AC:16/16/12 CMD: 16. F:4; R: 6; W: 6
Tuesday May 10th, 2022 4:23:22 AM
She didn't like him. She wasn't exactly sure why. Perhaps because just too insistent. Perhaps he was too leading with his questions. Perhaps it was his disparagement of all things Fey when she was part Fey. Torryn gently extended her newfound sense. Was he evil? She did her best not to scowl as she she did so. Most likely she'd got entirely the wrong end of the stick. It wouldn't be the first time that had happened. Her intuition seemed largely limited to musical interpretation.

OOC: Detect Evil (ability)

Drack (Chris J) - hp 30/30 - AC 15 d20+4=16 ;
Tuesday May 10th, 2022 8:23:19 AM
Drack tries to sense the the motives behind the offer to examine the ring(sense motive 16). Assuming that he senses nothing is being hidden he will chime in.

"Might be a good idea Loryn. Can't really hurt to have it examined by people used to dealing with such things."

Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 23/23
Tuesday May 10th, 2022 8:45:37 AM
" I understand that being part of the sage's guild would indicate that someone is inquisitive, but is there a reason for your questioning? Are we on trial? You also seem persistent to take the ring. Don't take this as an attack, but it seems, how should I say this... odd."

AC 13 HP 19/19 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K
Tuesday May 10th, 2022 9:48:54 AM
Loryn listens and purses his lips in thought as the older sage speaks. he did, after all, likely know far more on such matters than himself and certainly more than the young humans about him.

"Well we were gifted the ring, it was not a found by us and i have been able to deduce that is can summon a small elemental of fire and we were able to determine that there is a necromantic tint on the ring. Haven't gone much further than that."

Glancing over at Drack, "Inclined to agree."

Then over to Ash and he pauses a moment, "A good point as well," Looking back, "this is odd and my question is what rumors? It has been less than a week since we came into possession of the ring and only a couple of days from the elemental summoning."

"I have no qualms with you looking at the ring. After all you are a member of the Sages Guild and several of us are with The Woldian League of Adventurers and there should be cooperation between us I think."

Loryn produces the ring and places it on the table, "But I think we should hear more detail on what brought you here."

Loryn thought the man was making far more of the thing than need be, phrases like Chosen, mortal folk and burden seemed a bit over dramatic to the sensible gnome.

Manolo (Michael A) -- AC 17/15/12 -- CMD 17 -- HP 12/13
Tuesday May 10th, 2022 7:15:19 PM
"You seem to speak the truth about the fact that you are from the sages guild and you seem pure with your intentions", Manolo says as the Professor get the ring for further examination.

OOC: assuming he gets to examine the ring.

DM BatMark -- He seems ok to me...
Tuesday May 10th, 2022 9:29:18 PM
Drack tries to sense the Professor’s motives, and suggests that Loryn let him examine the ring. Drack Highlight to display spoiler: {The Professor seems on the up and up, and genuinely interested in keeping dangerous lore out of the wrong hands.}
Torrynashkabbeth doesn’t like the professor, and scans him for evil. Torryn Highlight to display spoiler: {You detect no evil, and know that if he is really a Professor in the Guild and were evil, he would be powerful enough to register on your scan.}
Manolo lets the others know that the Professor seems genuine.
Ash asks why the Professor is being so persistent.
Mole waits quietly
Mortimer waits quiet as death
Loryn explains some of the ring’s backstory, puts it on the table, and asks for more detail regarding what brought the Professor here.

The Professor, with tolerably good patience, reiterates that he was in the area on other business when the first stories about the gremlins, the group of adventurers, and the ring reached him. ”We in the Guild do keep an ear out for interesting developments, and this area certainly seems to be picking up lately!” When Loryn puts the ring on the table, Crumblecore starts to reach out for it, then reconsiders and asks, ”If it would not be too alarming, I think I should like to cast a spell to better understand what mischief might be afoot with the ring, if any.” If there are no objections, he casts a spell and looks carefully at the ring.

(You may try a DC 17 Spellcraft Roll; if successful Highlight to display spoiler: {He is casting Detect Curse.}

Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.): ac:17/17/10. hp:21/21. d20=3 ;
Tuesday May 10th, 2022 9:36:30 PM
When the ring goes on the table, Mortimer sobers up quickly. He sets his drink down on the table not so gently. He doesn't say anything. His eyes dart to Loryn for being so trusting. His posture stiffens a bit at first but then he relaxes back into his chair. What is done is done. All he can do now is sit back and watch what this toff is going to do. If he wishes to buy the Firestarter, he better offer a very shiny pile of coin.

(Sense Motive: 3)

He's sobering up a touch, but still no read on the man. The voices around him, from the shadows, offer their own opinions. He chooses not to acknowledge them.

Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.): ac:17/17/10. hp:21/21. d20+5=11 ;
Tuesday May 10th, 2022 9:50:53 PM
(DM beat me to the punch, but his assessment of Mortimer is accurate :)

(Spell Craft: 11)

He has no idea what kind of spell he's casting. The method seemed odd; the words spoken like a request.

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 21/21 AC:16/16/12 CMD: 16. F:4; R: 6; W: 6
Wednesday May 11th, 2022 6:49:06 AM
That was definitely a spell he was casting. Yes, she was pretty sure of that, but what it was, she not a clue. Apparently you could identify spells by the gestures and words, but Torryn's magic didn't really work like that: it was instinctive and she'd never made a study of such arcane spellcraft. Still, she was confidently that he bore no evil intent; so held her peace.

They often said that first impressions count and this mage's first impression was not good. She still didn't like him. Torryn was pretty certain that he couldn't dance either!

Drack (Chris J) - hp 30/30 - AC 15
Wednesday May 11th, 2022 9:14:35 AM

Feeling like the man is being straightforward, Drack watches, counting on the other spell casters to alert him if the spell being cast was a danger to them.

Mole; (RichP) AC 18; HP 33/33; CMD 15
Wednesday May 11th, 2022 9:56:01 AM
Mole continues to watch the goings on. Sages and mages were things better left to the mages.

AC 13 HP 19/19 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K d20+10=19 ;
Wednesday May 11th, 2022 10:50:38 AM
Loryn decides to himself that he would have to be satisfied on the answer given and lets the matter drop.
They do say that news travels fast ad here was evidence. Whos was he to argue with it..
Loryn offers no objections to the casting of a spell, it was a prudent measure. He certainly would before picking up an unknown magic item. The gnome recognizes the spell and when completed he asks with a raised eyebrow, "So were you able to detect a curse upon the ring?"

"I should tell you that I have worn it of course, and as stated earlier, activated the summoning aspect. But do tell, what do think?" Loryn asks pleasantly. By nature, Loryn trusted the noble races. They would do and act as they say and it was how he interacted with them until proven wrong. To the gnome, it seemed an exhausting burden to guard against the few who meant deceit and harm versus the vast majority that did not.

Spellcraft 19

Manolo (Michael A) -- AC 17/15/12 -- CMD 17 -- HP 12/13 d20=19 ;
Wednesday May 11th, 2022 7:12:53 PM
Manolo waits for the professor replay.
He looks with great interest at the professor gestures but doesn't understand them.

He says out loud what he thinks the professor is doing of of sheer curiosity.

d20=19

Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.): ac:13/13/10. hp:21/21. d20+8=20 ;
Wednesday May 11th, 2022 8:29:51 PM
Talk of curses seems to bring out the local phantasma. Candles flicker, the shadows around Mortimer deepen and darken. All this only exacerbates Mortimer's souring mood. When the spirits become roused and whipped into a frenzy, they tend to become quite handsy. Mortimer is quickly losing his patience, while his personal boundaries are increasingly violated.

"WHAA! Umm, What is your assessment," he inquires?

(Bluff: 20, to hide his smoldering and growing displeasure.)

DM BatMark -- Lets' Make a Deal
Wednesday May 11th, 2022 9:30:20 PM
Drack thinks the guy is being straightforward and watches to see what happens.
Torrynashkabbeth is pretty sure the guy is casting a spell, but has no idea which one.
Manolo offers unschooled thoughts re the spell and waits to see what happens.
Ash waits to see what happens.
Mole watches while the magic guys sort things out.
Mortimer sobers up a touch, and starts to get grumpy with the Professor, but hides it well enough for the moment.
Loryn perceptively asks whether the Professor detected any curses on the ring.

The Professor continues to concentrate for a few more moments, then nods to Loryn. ”Yes, quite right, Master Glitterfall, the ring is indeed cursed. A whiff of enchantment and necromancy, I think. Fortunately, these sorts of gremlin curses–I suspect jinkins, by the way–they do not tend to transfer from the item to the bearer. Rather, they make the item malfunction in potentially dangerous ways. I did not detect any curse on you or your companions, so that is something to be thankful for. Such curses are not easily reversed. So let me make you an offer on behalf of the Guild. If you will accept payment of 14,000 gold pieces, I will take this off your hands and the Guild will ensure that it is kept from causing further harm. I assure you that this is a fair price, and hope you will accept our offer.”

Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 23/23
Wednesday May 11th, 2022 9:55:19 PM
Ash's eyes almost pop out of his head when he hears the sum offered. Did you say fourteen thousand?" He asks. "As in gold pieces?"

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 21/21 AC:16/16/12 CMD: 16. F:4; R: 6; W: 6 d20=18 ;
Thursday May 12th, 2022 5:15:07 AM
"Ha!" Torryn barked a short laugh. She immediately covered her mouth with her hand, but the smile never left her eyes. What the mage said made sense: the item was cursed. She would have given it to him for safe keeping and been grateful enough of that. Being given money for it and so much seemed preposterous. Perhaps the others wanted the money. Torryn had no great use for it. It had been hard enough persuading her parents to accept the coins she provided. There was no possibility that they'd accept more. Torryn composed herself as best she could.

(Bluff; 18+3: 21)

She had no preference truly. Whatever Loryn decided was fine with her. If she was given some wealth, she intended to donate it to those that had more need of it. If she received no coin, then that was one less thing to be concerned about.

Drack (Chris J) - hp 30/30 - AC 15
Thursday May 12th, 2022 8:23:59 AM
"Sounds like a good idea to me. Trading a cursed item for a good amount of gold that we can use to upgrade our equipment. The better our equipment is, the better we will be, and be better prepared to help those that need it."

AC 13 HP 19/19 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K
Thursday May 12th, 2022 11:02:12 AM
Loryn nods as the professor explains his findings and frowns a bit at the amount. He was all very prepared to tell the good man 'not for sale', so that he could keep fiddling with the ring. It wasn't really that dangerous and he was hoping to learn to speak with the summoned creature, but now that was not likely. They were just offered a real sizable amount of gold for it. Drack was already in, as was Ash and Torry and he knew Mortimer would certainly be for selling the ring for such an amount and so was Loryn himself.

Oh why couldn't the offer had been some trivial amount so he could turn it down and keep the ring.

Loryn gives everyone a look, nodding. The gnome was no merchant, he was cook.
"A generous offer that we will accept good sir. The ring belongs to the Sages Guild."

Loryn slides it across more fully to the professor

Mole; (RichP) AC 18; HP 33/33; CMD 15
Thursday May 12th, 2022 4:06:50 PM
Mole has little to add. Coin would benefit them more than a cursed ring.

Manolo (Michael A) -- AC 17/15/12 -- CMD 17 -- HP 12/13
Thursday May 12th, 2022 8:30:39 PM
Manolo agrees with the party and he asks the professor without thinking.

"Did you hear about anything similar happening somewhere else ?", he simply asks.
"Cursed items popping out of nowhere or gremlins causing mayhem somewhere else ?"

Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.): ac:13/13/10. hp:21/21.
Thursday May 12th, 2022 9:22:28 PM
Moritmer nearly falls out of his chair when he hears the number. He sees visions of greatness and debauchery ...expensive clothes and cheap women! In that moment, he honestly asks himself a very tough question ... does he like these people enough not to pinch all their shares? No answer yet comes to him. He chooses to table the discussion for a later time. For now he wants to be shown the shinnies.

A different question creeps in past the cheap women ... "Umm, minus the pesky curse, do you know what this type of ring is called?"

DM BatMark -- Done!
Thursday May 12th, 2022 10:24:37 PM
Drack looks forward to some gear upgrades.
Torrynashkabbeth manages to compose herself, and thinks about who to donate the windfall to.
Manolo agrees with the deal and asks about similar gremlin hijinks.
Ash goes gaga over the offer of gold.
Mole agrees that gold is better than a cursed ring.
Mortimer has various fantasies about what the gold might bring, and asks what the ring is called.
Loryn accepts the offer with some reluctance.

The Professor opines that the ring is a ring of elemental summoning, just a fey-cursed one. He is not aware of any similar recent gremlin infestations in the area, although of course over history, there have been such. He reaches into a small haversack and draws out a bag that hits the table with a satisfying clink. Upon examination, you find that it has the promised amount of gold.

With that, he rises, thanks you for the stories and trust, and wishes you well in your next, better-equipped quest. ”Well, I must be back to the business that originally drew me to the nearby region. Have a good day!” He turns and exits the boarding house, leaving you quite a bit richer. It seems quiet, compared to the recent breakfast festivities and the intense conversation with the Professor. No source of danger presents itself, so perhaps you have some time to spend around town, including a visit to the Catacombs window at the Keep, if you like.

(Each PC gains 2000gp from the sale of the ring.)

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 21/21 AC:16/16/12 CMD: 16. F:4; R: 6; W: 6
Friday May 13th, 2022 2:41:46 AM
Being better equipped to handle the trouble that came their way; it did seem like a good idea. Could she find a magical spear for that money? Even if she could, was it worth it? Such a fortune could do a lot of good and help a lot of people. Torryn decided it would be best to talk it over with Stratus. She almost immediately doubted herself. Surely she gain an understanding of the cost of such things before getting into a moral debate? That did seem more sensible. Her, sensible? When did that start happening?

Drack (Chris J) - hp 30/30 - AC 15
Friday May 13th, 2022 7:54:06 AM
Drack nods as the stranger puts down the bag of coins, and thanks him for a fair deal.

"Well guys, looks like this will be an easy split. 2,000 gp each. I suppose we can split it now and each go buy what they want? I'm thinking I'm going to upgrade to some heavy duty armor since i plan on being on the receiving end of most of the attacks by the bad guys. That, and Loryn, and perhaps others, can cast a spell on my sword to make it magical. Any thoughts on that or group items before we all go running off?"

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 21/21 AC:16/16/12 CMD: 16. F:4; R: 6; W: 6
Friday May 13th, 2022 10:34:48 AM
(OOC: Having looked through the book, 2000 does not buy very much.)

"Two thousand gold coins is a lot of money, but magic is expensive. From what I recall from Agratha's lessons, I think I'd have to spend ALL my coins just to get a magical spear and that spear would be only just a tiny bit magical. I'm not sure that I can justify such expense. I mean, two thousand can do a lot of good hereabouts" Torryn mused.

(OOC: +1 Spear =2k. Bracers +1 do not stack with her Mage Armour. Possibly the Necklace of Fireballs - she'd get 3 - and that would leave some to donate.(350gp) Equally Torryn is happy to donate to anyone that has a pressing need for something a little more expensive.)

"I'm really not at all sure to do for the best. If any of you have your eyes on something special, I don't mind assisting with my coins as there's nothing that immediately jumps to mind." She added.

Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.): ac:13/13/10. hp:21/21.
Friday May 13th, 2022 11:16:07 AM
Mortimer chimes in to the discussion. "I would like one of those fancy chain shirts; the one made from mithral. I saw one at the Catacombs when I was there last. Eating a lot of fine food and drink now, I am. Might as well protect my investment, yeah."

Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.): ac:13/13/10. hp:21/21.
Friday May 13th, 2022 11:26:35 AM
He adds, "While on the high top (Plateau City), might as well stop by the WLA and pay my dues and be schooled on wearin' armour. Anyone else coming?"

Drack (Chris J) - hp 30/30 - AC 15
Friday May 13th, 2022 11:38:05 AM
(ooc: I'm pondering MW full plate. Mithral would be great, but it's going to be awhile before I could afford that.Either that, or I hold off for awhile, and wait until I can afford the Mithral Full plate, and then enhance it as is afforded.)

Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 23/23
Friday May 13th, 2022 12:27:48 PM
Ash takes his gold, and pickets it.. making mental notes of what he can purchase. "Ill tag along if anyone is going to the Catacombs. "

Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 23/23
Friday May 13th, 2022 12:27:49 PM
Ash takes his gold, and pickets it.. making mental notes of what he can purchase. "Ill tag along if anyone is going to the Catacombs. "

Manolo (Michael A) -- AC 17/15/12 -- CMD 17 -- HP 12/13
Friday May 13th, 2022 7:35:09 PM
Before taking his share of gold, he runs towards the direction of the sage and shouts "If you need help you know where to find us !"

DM BatMark -- What to buy?
Friday May 13th, 2022 11:27:37 PM
Ash is ready to head over to the catacombs.
Mortimer is ready to buy and train.
Manolo offers aid to the adage as he goes.
Torrynashkabbeth ponders what is best for her and the party.
Mole
Stowe
Drack ponders how best to upgrade his armor.
Loryn

Those who like are able to make deals in the Catacombs. You can also sell mundane loot for half value. After all the recent hubbub, the Hamlet by the next morning seems to have returned to something resembling normalcy. You are free to do things in and near the Hamlet for a few days if you need to tend to various matters, such as training. Folks seem to be giving you additional respect after your most recent exploits and the visit of the Sage’s Guild rep!

(OOC: feel free to coordinate buying and spending plans via email, as that is very time consuming via post!)

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 21/21 AC:16/16/12 CMD: 16. F:4; R: 6; W: 6
Sunday May 15th, 2022 4:07:26 AM
Torryn ventured out. The Catacombs were her destination. She didn't have anything specific in mind to purchase, but was prepared to be guided by the others and to help them buy what they required should that be necessary. It seemed that life was a lot less complicated without money. She smiled. It really wouldn't be a concern for long. Maybe she'd just buy a new outfit and gift the rest.

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 21/21 AC:16/16/12 CMD: 16. F:4; R: 6; W: 6
Sunday May 15th, 2022 4:24:25 AM
Torryn ventured out. The Catacombs were her destination. She didn't have anything specific in mind to purchase, but was prepared to be guided by the others and to help them buy what they required should that be necessary. It seemed that life was a lot less complicated without money. She smiled. It really wouldn't be a concern for long. Maybe she'd just buy a new outfit and gift the rest.

Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 23/23
Monday May 16th, 2022 8:27:40 AM
Ash heads out, following Torryn to the catacombs.

Drack (Chris J) - hp 30/30 - AC 15
Monday May 16th, 2022 8:40:18 AM
Drack will head out to the catacombs with the others.

Mole; (RichP) AC 18; HP 33/33; CMD 15
Monday May 16th, 2022 9:45:40 AM
Mole heads out with the others.

AC 13 HP 19/19 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K
Monday May 16th, 2022 10:34:03 AM
Loryn will also head to the Catacombs. Torry was correct, of course, magic was quite expensive, but he could think of several potions that could come in handy or that might be very prudent to get his hands on. being a hero was dangerous business, else everyone would do it. A friend of the family once told him 'Being an adventurer or hero, or relic hunter is great and has a wonderful retirement plan. Trick is to live long enough.'

And so Loryn was off to buy a healing potion or 2

Manolo (Michael A) -- AC 17/15/12 -- CMD 17 -- HP 12/13
Monday May 16th, 2022 6:12:33 PM
Seeing no response from the sage he decides to return back and just eats a little meals and goes to sleep again.

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 21/21 AC:16/16/12 CMD: 16. F:4; R: 6; W: 6
Monday May 16th, 2022 6:40:45 PM
Perhaps a healing potion was a good idea. Torryn decided not to make any firm decisions until she got to the catacombs and saw what was available and at what price. Those prices though, would likely be horrific!

Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.): ac:13/13/10. hp:21/21.
Monday May 16th, 2022 8:33:54 PM
Mortimer continues to wait patiently at the Catacombs. While there is time, he does peruse the Catacombs inventory catalog. His eyes bug out at the prices. He can't imagine ever being able to afford such things.

DM BatMark -- Playing for Keeps
Monday May 16th, 2022 8:48:34 PM
Drack heads to the Catacombs.
Torrynashkabbeth goes window shopping in the Catacombs.
Manolo eats a bit and naps.
Ash also heads to the Catacombs.
Mole heads to the Catacombs too.
Mortimer gets lost in the Catacombs for a bit.
Loryn shops for some potions and such.

Mole shows back up with a nifty looking haversack, while Drack has something sloshing in his pouch. As the party wanders back into the boarding house in the afternoon, a young lad with a determined look enters as well. A little out of breath, he says, ”Captain Phaedra requests you heroes attend a meeting with her at the Keep. At your earliest convenience, she said.” With a clumsy bow, he rushes back out the door.

(You may make a DC 10 Sense Motive or Knowledge Nobility or Knowledge Local check to Highlight to display spoiler: {know that ‘at your earliest convenience’ really means ‘come now, if not sooner’})

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 21/21 AC:16/16/12 CMD: 16. F:4; R: 6; W: 6 d20=12 ;
Tuesday May 17th, 2022 5:46:54 AM
The 'window shopping' turned into a little bit more than that. It was partly the design and partly her desire to be useful that propelled Torryn to again act impulsively. This impulse purchase was of a necklace. It was very pretty, having three small roses heads hanging from it. Two were yellow, the middle one was red. It was explained to her that this item was in fact magical. More than that it was a Necklace of Fireballs. Each "flower" could be plucked from the chain and thrown. Where it landed a ball of fire would erupt! Of course there were risks - you really didn't want it blowing up whilst you were wearing it. Nor did you particularly want to catch your friends in the blast area, which was by all accounts, not insignificant. Still, it was pretty and Torryn bought it for 1650gp.

Back in the hamlet she donated 200gp to the church so that they might distribute it to best effect to help those in need.

(OOC: Torryn saved 150gp)

Message received, Torryn understood the urgency.
"That's a summons if ever I heard one." She said as soon as the young man had left. No doubt Mole considered the youth little more than a boy, but truthfully, Torryn wasn't that much older - so to her, he was a young man.

With her new necklace proudly on show and her iron headed spear in hand she declared herself ready to answer the summons.

Drack (Chris J) - hp 30/30 - AC 15 d20+4=7 ;
Tuesday May 17th, 2022 8:59:17 AM
Failing to catch that it was an immediate request, Drack will follow Torryn's lead.

"I'm going to throw my gear on now, in case this is an urgent issue."

Drack will throw on his breastplate, and grab the rest of his gear before heading out with the others.

Mole; (RichP) AC 18; HP 33/33; CMD 15 d20+4=24 ;
Tuesday May 17th, 2022 10:51:42 AM
Mole recognizes the order and not a request. He gathers his things in his new haversack before waiting outside the inn.

Sense Motive DC24

Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 23/23
Tuesday May 17th, 2022 12:03:33 PM
Ash didn't need to be keen in local customs to know what that summons meant. He headed out with the others, making note of his money. (Ash didn't buy anything at the Catacombs)

AC 13 HP 19/19 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K
Tuesday May 17th, 2022 5:08:20 PM
Loryn was not overly paying attention as the young boy entered. His mind had returned to the apparent fact that the group was in charge and possibly would become the defacto owners of what was Minerva's

The bustle form Drack and Torry brought him back to the current situation and as the rest of the group is heading out, he falls in line to see what is so urgent

Manolo (Michael A) -- AC 17/15/12 -- CMD 17 -- HP 12/13 d20+7=8 ;
Tuesday May 17th, 2022 6:48:00 PM
Manolo wakes up quite refreshed but still in sleepy drowsy mode of thinking.
Asking the others still confused "What do captain Phaedra wants from us?.....it can wait till I wake up ," he says and continues as he stretches a little bit.

Local Knowledge 8

Torrynashkabbeth (Nick K) HP: 21/21 AC:16/16/12 CMD: 16. F:4; R: 6; W: 6
Tuesday May 17th, 2022 6:55:05 PM
"No, Manny, you have to come now. As in Right Now." Torryn explained patiently before not so patiently prodding his outstretched leg with the butt end of her spear. She gave him a winning smile to mitigate that less gentle encouragement and then set forth to the meeting.

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