DM BatMark -- A Dark and Stormy...Dawn Tuesday July 5th, 2022 9:33:15 PM Manolo is awakened and grumpified by the tremors, but at least manages to not fall out of bed. Drack tumbles to the ground from the tremors, but regains his feet and gears up. Loryn hops out of bed, and seeks a good vantage point. Ash agrees with Loryn and heads up the tower with him. Torrynashkabbeth gracefully keeps her feet, but is uncertain what to make of the tremors and clouds. Mole follows mutely. Mortimer finishes brooding over shadows and sorcery. (OOC: Sorry, looks like we posted within seconds of each other. Feel free to add to your next post to make up for that.)
(OOC: You all got sufficient rest to recover the usual 3 HP and spells.)
The gatehouse tower provides the view you are seeking, and you gather there to see what is coming. The clouds above are growing and starting to glow eerily. Small tremors continue, but you are now prepared for them, and so can keep your footing. Down below, in the light of the glow and the torches that illuminate the area in front of the main gate, you see a wild-haired humanoid stagger and stumble into view. You may make a perception check, with results as below, depending on your level of success:
DC10 Highlight to display spoiler: {It is Heorstan, looking a little worse for wear.} DC15 Highlight to display spoiler: { Heorstan is carrying a large book! He is muttering something, but you can’t make it out.} DC20 Highlight to display spoiler: {Heorstan is gibbering something about learning and regrets, and is holding the Book that you are looking for.}
Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.): ac:17/13/14. hp:21/21 d20+5=17 ; Tuesday July 5th, 2022 9:56:18 PM
During the night, Mortimer finds himself in another familiar dream. However this time, it's not deep within a dark forest in front of a roaring fire; it's seated at a table in a modest public house. More like a private dining room within a modest public house. Also seated at the table are the same people, he assumes are his family, partaking of a meal, wine and conversation.
In front of him is a spoon and bowl full of a savory broth with various cuts of meat and poultry. There's an empty wine goblet set to the side. Mortimer would have liked to take part in the meal, but like all his previous dreams, he is frozen in place, unable to move. All he can do is watch and listen. The serving wench stops by and fills his goblet. It's at that moment he feels a rumbling. The wine in his goblet ripples from the quake. Lord Ambrose turns to him and commands, "You have a job to do. Off with you!"
Mortimer wakes and sits up on his cot. He feels the rumble again, but now more profoundly (Acrobatics: 18, the modifier is actually a +6.) He avoids falling out of bed. He sets his feet on the floor and sighs. "I haven't had my morning elixir yet ... A moment, if you PLEASE!" He removes a flask from a pocket and takes a sip. He takes another sip.
(Question: Do we have our spell slots back?)
Drack (Chris J) - hp 27/30 - AC 17 - con -2 Wednesday July 6th, 2022 8:05:03 AM
(ooc: Drack will continue putting on his armor until it's completed, or the situation dictates otherwise. Please advise upon completion)
Drack continues putting on his armor.
AC 13 HP 19/19 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K d20+2=22 ; d20+2=10 ; Wednesday July 6th, 2022 12:31:19 PM
Lryn peers into the dim light provided by hte torches and odd clouds, "Domi's beard! Thats' Heorstan!" he pauses as he sees his mouth moving, "Shadows, he read the book all right, he's going on about learning and regret and that is definately the book we want."
Time here could be importatnt and Loryn opts for the fastest way down he can think of and hops off the Gatehouse. He hits harder than he'd hoped and rolls to gain his feet and get to the stumbling Heorstan as fast as possibble
"Heorstan! Come on man and give me that" he calls as he heads to him
perception 22 acrobatics 10
Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 23/23 d20+2=9 ; Wednesday July 6th, 2022 2:31:15 PM
"Where?" Ash asks when everyone says Heorstan is this. " This damn cloud is too thick for me to see anything."
Ash continues to scan, to no avail. "Loryn, be careful "
Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 23/23 d20+2=9 ; Wednesday July 6th, 2022 2:31:15 PM
"Where?" Ash asks when everyone says Heorstan is this. " This damn cloud is too thick for me to see anything."
Ash continues to scan, to no avail. "Loryn, be careful "
Torryn saw and heard exactly what Loryn had. She still found it difficult to believe that the gnome had jumped off the building! Her tutor, Agratha, knew how to do such things safely. Torryn had yet to acquire such skills. Still, she was faster on her feet than Loryn, so elected to run. She'd back Loryn up as best she could.
Manolo (Michael A) -- AC 17/15/12 -- CMD 17 -- HP 12/13 d20+6=24 ; Wednesday July 6th, 2022 7:41:08 PM
Manolo runs after Loryn. "Careful !, we don't know what is going to happen soon", he shouts.
Perception 24
Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.): ac:17/13/14. hp:21/21 Wednesday July 6th, 2022 8:29:56 PM
Mortimer finally stands from his cot and puts his flask away. He is already wearing his chain shirt, he had slept in it. Having lived a hard life on the open roads and streets has afforded him a similar measure of hardiness. His pale and gaunt appearance was most deceptive, for the young man was quite swift, agile and could take a punch that would drop a more sturdy and stout-looking brute. (Endurance Feat)
He looks back at Drack, still trying to don his armor. With a smirk, he asks, "Need an assist, yeah?" He will do what he can to help speed up the process. He'll take advantage of some of the armor training he received from the WLA.
DM BatMark -- Wild Eyed Local Boy 2d6=5 ; Wednesday July 6th, 2022 9:40:17 PM
(OOC: You were all able to don armor or otherwise gear up before meeting on the gate tower, so feel free to add to this coming turn if you would have done more.)
Mortimer shakes off his dream and rises up, armor already in place, to offer a quip to the still donning Drack, before moving to the roof. Ash calls for Loryn to be careful, but Loryn isn’t paying attention to his advice, apparently. Drack is able to wrestle into his armor and join the others in time to see the wild man arrive in front of the tower. Loryn identifies the wild man and book as Heorstan with the tome that you seek. He takes a leap of faith, landing with a bit of a thump (take 5hp of damage) and falling prone. He is nevertheless able to stand up and move to reach Heorstan, who looks at him wildly. Manolo runs to catch up with the plummeting Loryn, shouting for caution. Torrynashkabbeth watches amazed as Loryn jumps off of the tower, then she hustles down the stairs, arriving at the gate to see Loryn approaching Heorstan. Mole takes it all in.
Heorstan is apologetic, frightened, and soot stained. [b]“I needed the thrill of learning. I needed to. I’m sorry, I don’t know what came over me.”[b] He holds the book possessively as he continues to look about wildly.
Above, the cloud continues to grow, with the top starting to rise up higher into the sky, an eerie glow emanating from its highest reaches.
Torrynashkabbeth HP:21 AC:20 F4: R:6 W:7 Thursday July 7th, 2022 6:24:29 AM
That book was nothing but trouble. She'd have destroyed it, but doubted that something so evidently magically could be so easily dispatched. She ran up to join Loryn and Heorstan.
"That book needs to be under lock and key - if it cannot be burnt." She stated. It seemed the best place to start. They did not as yet know what the storm cloud brought, but did know that the book only brought woe and misfortune.
Mole; (RichP) AC 18; HP 33/33; CMD 15 d20+10=21 ; Thursday July 7th, 2022 8:13:11 AM
Mole watches in silence.
Perception DC21
Drack (Chris J) - hp 27/30 - AC 17 - con -2 d20+6=10 ; d20+3=8 ; Thursday July 7th, 2022 11:34:23 AM
Having already donned his armor, and already on the ground, Drack moves toward Heorstan, He only notices that Heorstan doesn't look right, but then Torry Mentions the book that he is holding. Drack remembers that Phaedra had not been right until the book had been away from her for awhile, So Drack attempts to take the book from Heorstan, physically if necessary(STR check 8. stupid die roller)
"Heorstan, let go of the book, it's changing you."
Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 23/23 Thursday July 7th, 2022 3:07:50 PM
Ash stays put incase something is coming in these clouds.
Manolo (Michael A) -- AC 17/15/12 -- CMD 17 -- HP 12/13 d4=2 ; d20+6=9 ; Thursday July 7th, 2022 7:30:22 PM
Manolo tries to look up, but it surprises him, the storm was getting worse. "Do we stop him now? Or do we deal with whatever is coming now?!" Perception 9
Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.): ac:17/13/14. hp:21/21 Thursday July 7th, 2022 9:10:44 PM "Me thinks being on the ground a better place than up here in a storm." Mortimer then makes his way back to the stairs on his way down. He begins to wonder why he had come up here in the first place. He offers any guard he sees an advisory to batten down the hatches. "A storm is a brewin'!"
AC 13 HP 14/19 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K Thursday July 7th, 2022 11:09:50 PM
Heorstan seemed pretty out of it. "Drack, its ok lets get him in and get to safety, We can worry about gettting the book later"
Loryn does not try to get the book, but directs the man at the keep and tries to hurry him along. the speaks quietly to him as he moves, "We got you, its OK Heorstan, Come along and we'll get this straightened out
DM BatMark -- This can't be good Friday July 8th, 2022 6:23:26 AM Manolo tries to look up and sees the storm getting worse. He asks whether you should stop Heorstan or whatever is coming now. Mole watches in silence. Mortimer heads down to get out of the coming storm, and warns the guards on the way. Ash stays put and keeps an eye out for threats from the clouds. Drack makes a grab for the book, warning Heorstan that it is changing him. Loryn wants to get Heorstan to safety first. Torrynashkabbeth suggests that the book needs to be locked up or burned.
Drack’s clumsy attempt to take the book is slightly less awkward than Heorstan’s wild flailing, and Drack ends up with the book. Heorstan moans and sinks to his knees in what appears to be some combination of despair and relief. The cloud above keeps growing, now shaped like a mountain. An eerie flow comes from the top with a plume of what looks like white smoke. In the town, you can see ghostly figures moving about, looking up fearfully at the cloud and plume. A fine ash starts to slowly rain down from the sky.
Torrynashkabbeth HP:21 AC:20 F4: R:6 W:7 Friday July 8th, 2022 6:41:55 AM "Well, that doesn't look good." Torryn commented needlessly. "Do you think that if we destroy the book, the things it summons will be destroyed too? Drack if you place the book on the ground maybe we can burn it." She very much doubted that her Fey Sparks would do much harm to the book and felt it would likely be just ridiculous to stab it with her spear; so was hoping that someone had the means to actually harm the tome. She doubted that they had anything to lose by trying to destroy the book and It wasn't as if they could attack a cloud.
Drack (Chris J) - hp 27/30 - AC 17 - con -2 Friday July 8th, 2022 8:56:38 AM
Drack hears Torry, and pauses a moment before setting down the book. He has no idea what is going, and looks to the spellcasters. “Well, what do we do?”
AC 13 HP 14/19 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K d20+3=12 ; Friday July 8th, 2022 3:01:10 PM
Loryn glances about and grimaces. "So far, every reading has been accompanied by a creature of some kind and After it's destruction, things went back to normal. I think we need to backtrack Heorstan and locate whatever fun thing he brought with the volcano."
"Somebody see if they can get some information out of Heorstan, specifically where he was when he read the book. And Drack Why don't you just keep that thing right in your bag eh?"
"Heorstan, Where were you when you read the book, we need to get there." Diplomacy 12
Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 23/23 Friday July 8th, 2022 3:51:16 PM
Ash can only shrug to Drack. Being a spell caster didnt prepare him for some evil book like this.
Torrynashkabbeth HP:21 AC:20 F4: R:6 W:7 Friday July 8th, 2022 5:18:39 PM
Torryn held Loryn in very high regard. He was wise and was typically right about most things. Still, she didn't understand how destroying the book would not end the current crisis. Surely that was easier than trying to find whatever it was that Heorstan had inadvertently summoned. She wasn't going to say that though. Loryn was right far more often than he was wrong and certainly far more often than she was. She consoled herself with the knowledge that she was a far better dancer.
Mole; (RichP) AC 18; HP 33/33; CMD 15 Friday July 8th, 2022 7:09:54 PM
"Not sure if burning it'll work. Can you erase it? Nothin' to read, no curse." He says. "Once we deal with the newest curse effect is dealt with."
Manolo (Michael A) -- AC 17/15/12 -- CMD 17 -- HP 12/13 d20+6=20 ; Friday July 8th, 2022 8:26:15 PM
Manolo looks around for anything or anyone that might surprise or ambush them
Perception 20
Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.): ac:17/13/14. hp:21/21 d20+6=11 ; Friday July 8th, 2022 9:52:39 PM
Mortimer looks at his friends with the book. He looks up at the volcanic mountain forming in the sky. He turns and spots the ghostly figures in the street. He normally tries to ignore the spirits because once they know you can see them, they just won't leave you alone. However it's odd that he can see them in the light of day.
"Pardon me, official WLA business, yeah," he asks the spirits while tapping his badge, "Would you mind telling me the name of that smoky peak? Where are we?" (Diplomacy: 11)
After getting silence or an answer, he turns back to his friends and asks, "Are you guys seein' these haunties? Normally I be seein' them at night when the veil between the shadows is .. uh, gossamer-like. Never during the light of day!"
DM BatMark -- Wicked Fun! Friday July 8th, 2022 10:45:40 PM Manolo looks around for threats. Mole wonders whether to burn or erase the book, once the newest curse effect is dealt with. Mortimer tries talking to the spirits nearby and wonders whether the others can see them. Ash shrugs, this is beyond his magics to discern. Drack puts down the book and looks to the casters for guidance. Loryn tries to get information to backtrack what Heorstan did with the book. Torrynashkabbeth suggests trying to destroy the book, but is unsure what way is best. She is uncertain when Loryn suggests it might not be possible.
The party is divided over what to do with the book. Manolo sees no new threats nearby, but you all notice that the ashfall is slowly getting heavier, to the point that it becomes hard to see. (-2 Perception, -2 ranged attacks, but -10 to hide checks because the ash outlines folks as it covers them.) Heorstan is not coherent enough to provide useful information regarding the location of his recent activities and reading of the book, and continues to mutter apologies. The spirits are also of no help in that regard. As you ponder, the spirits start to scream and several separate groups of small humanoid creatures with thin, leathery wings, small horns, and mischievous smiles emerge. The nearest group of four takes wing and starts flapping toward the party, with eyes like embers! Another group further back can be heard beginning to rampage through the nearby shops, although you know that the villagers have fled to the keep already, so that’s perhaps some comfort. (DC13 Knowledge planes Highlight to display spoiler: {These are mephits, with the closest ones being fire mephits.})
The creatures are about 40 feet away, but closing fast, cackling with wicked glee as they come. What do you do?
Torrynashkabbeth HP:21 AC:20 F4: R:6 W:7 Saturday July 9th, 2022 4:42:20 AM
Torryn saw wickedly grinning creatures approach. She stepped forward. As she did she invoked her "Fey Armour" (Mage Armour). Seeing that they were approaching at speed, she recalled something her tutor had mentioned about 'bracing a weapon'. She placed a foot at the base of her spear and at the last moment angled to receive their 'charge'. Of course, flying as they were, it was entirely possible that they'd merely deviate in flight to avoid that peril, but it was her best idea. If they kept their distance she could deploy her Fey sparks, but that was for later. Possibly.
(OOC: I did not roll for Knowledge, Planes as Torryn has no points in that. I did not roll to attack as I anticipated there being a round of 'setting up' etc. Please roll if such is needed.)
Torrynashkabbeth HP:21 AC:24 F4: R:6 W:7 Saturday July 9th, 2022 4:44:34 AM
Torryn moves to J.14.
I forgot that bit. I've also adjusted the header to reflect her Mage Armour spell. (sigh)
AC 13 HP 14/19 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K d20+4=23 ; d6+1=4 ; Saturday July 9th, 2022 9:49:22 AM
"Almost on queue" the gnome remarks as he spies the flying creatures. Loryn had not spent anytime studying the planes and knew next to nothing. at least 1 rank is required to make DC 11+ checks
He moves up next to Torry and sends a ray of acid at one of the fliers B1 Ranged Touch AC 23 Dmg 4
Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.): ac:21/17/18. hp:21/21 Shield d100=54 ; Saturday July 9th, 2022 7:05:45 PM
With a defiant sneer forms across his face as he steps up next to Loryn to face the coming onslaught. With a few well-spoken words of power, shadows coalesce into an invisible shield of force in front of him.
Drack (Chris J) - hp 27/30 - AC 17 - con -2 d20+7=14 ; d10+4=11 ; Monday July 11th, 2022 7:56:01 AM
Knowing nothing about these things, and seeing the group has already formed a bit of a line, Drack will pull his sword as he moves, and step up next to Mortimer. Drack will then ready himself to swing at the first creature that comes in his range.
If the readied attack comes to pass, 14ac to hit, 11 damage.
Drack (Chris J) - hp 27/30 - AC 17 - con -2 Monday July 11th, 2022 7:58:20 AM
Drack first put the book in his back pack, which he did as soon as Loryn said to do that.
Mole; (RichP) AC 18; HP 33/33; CMD 15 Monday July 11th, 2022 8:01:06 AM
Mole moves up. "Any idea what these things are?"
Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.): ac:21/17/18. hp:21/21 Shield Monday July 11th, 2022 12:46:23 PM
Answering Mole, he replies, "They are dead, if I have anything to say about it!"
Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 23/23 d20+11=30 ; 2d4+2=5 ; Monday July 11th, 2022 2:35:11 PM
" Mephit Imps" Ash yells out. " Use no fire, and watch their stingers. "
With that, Ash lets forth 2 balls of Energy at B3.(5 dmg)
Manolo (Michael A) -- AC 17/15/12 -- CMD 17 -- HP 12/13 Monday July 11th, 2022 8:18:31 PM
Manolo moves near Loryn and readies his weapon.
DM BatMark -- Come on baby, light my fire d8=6 ; d8=7 ; d20+5=7 ; d20+5=8 ; Monday July 11th, 2022 8:53:40 PM Manolo steps up and readies a weapon. Mole moves up and asks what these things are. Mortimer brings forth a shield of shadows as he steps into the battle line, making a bold response to Mole’s question. Ash lets the party know that these are fire mephits, and unleashes two balls of energy (magic missile, I assume?) that strike home against B3. Highlight to display spoiler: {Great knowledge roll! These critters are immune to fire, vulnerable to cold, require magical weapons to do full damage, breath fire, and can cast a few spells.} Drack, having safely tucked away the book, steps into the line with sword drawn and readies an attack. Loryn knows nothing about these creatures, but lets fly a ray of acid at the northmost one. Torrynashkabbeth invokes her fey armour and tries to brace her spear, but doesn’t have time after casting the spell. (OOC: Note that bracing the weapon requires you to ready an action. You can still attack normally this turn if you wish.)
Loryn’s acid ray catches B1 square in the chest, causing it 4 hp of damage, just as Ash’s magic missiles smack into B3 for 5hp. Drack takes his readied swing at B3 as it closes in, but the little critter is too dodgy to hit this time.
B1 swoops to the north of the front line and breathes a cone of fire that catches Mole, Loryn, and Torryn. You each take 6hp of fire damage, DC13 reflex save for half.
B4 similarly flies to the south of the front line and breathes fire on Mortimer, Drack, Manolo, and Ash. You each take 6hp of fire damage, DC13 reflex save for half.
B3 flies down to attack Drack, but misses horribly with both of its claws. It seems quite angry about this.
B2 seems entranced by Mortimer’s sparkly chain shirt, and its claws move in arcane gestures as it points at Mort. Mortimer may make a DC14 Will save to negate the heat metal spell.
Fire Mephit B1 -4hp Fire Mephit B2 Fire Mephit B3 -5hp Fire Mephit B4
Mephits are all AC 17/Touch 14
Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.): ac:21/17/18. hp:18/21 Shield d20+5=14 ; d20+4=14 ; d20+4=8 ; d100=70 ; d3=2 ; Monday July 11th, 2022 9:57:21 PM
(Reflex save: 14 vs fire, success. Will save 14 vs heat metal, success.)
Mortimer winces from the searing flame. If it wasn't for his quick reflexes, it could have been worse. He takes a step backwards (5ft step) and casts a Ray of Frost at the nearest Mephit (B3).
(Mortimer casts Ray of Frost at B3. ASF10: 70. Hit TouchAC: 8. Damage: 3 cold damage.)
Torryn gasped in horror at the flames and did her best to dodge out of them. She wasn't at all sure whether it was her dancer's reactions or the magic of the fey armour, but she escaped with just a slight singeing. She was very grateful that her hair hadn't caught fire. She was intent on that not happening so hefted her spear and threw it at the nearest one.
(5'step to K.13 and throw at B1.)
Torryn launched her spear. It was a good throw. (AC:17) Yet good enough to hit the elusive little critters? That was another matter entirely
(OOC: It's really rather academic. If she does hit she'll inflict only 1 point of damage.)
Drack (Chris J) - hp 24/30 - AC 17 - con -2 d20+5=15 ; d20+7=26 ; d20+7=15 ; d10+4=10 ; Tuesday July 12th, 2022 7:47:44 AM Loryn! If you get a chance, I think that magic weapon thing you do would be helpful. If I get a chance, I'll move closer to you
Drack winces from the fire, but but manages to avoid the worst of it with a quick side step(reflex 15).
Drack swings at B3, hitting(26), but failing to connect on a critical strike(15). Damage 10
Mole; (RichP) AC 18; HP 30/33; CMD 15 d20=9 ; d20+5=23 ; d20+4=21 ; d6+1=2 ; Tuesday July 12th, 2022 12:06:28 PM
(Reflex save DC23)
Mole avoids much of the flames. The targets the creature to his left and fires a ray of acid at it.
Bolt of acid: R Touch AC21, damage 2
Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 20/23 d20+2=22 ; d3=2 ; 2d4+2=8 ; Tuesday July 12th, 2022 3:15:48 PM
Ash looks like a dancing fool, and somehow doesn't take the brunt of the fire.
He unleashed another magic missle at B3. 8 dmg.
Manolo (Michael A) -- AC 17/15/12 -- CMD 17 -- HP 12/13 d20+5=18 ; d8=8 ; Tuesday July 12th, 2022 4:28:49 PM
Manolo tries to shoot quickly at Fire Mephit that is in front of him (B2).
Attack 18 (deducted nothing as I don't remember the rules about ranged attacks) Damage 8
DM BatMark -- Smoke em if you got em d20+5=22 ; 4d6=10 ; d8=3 ; d20+7=24 ; d20+7=10 ; d20+7=13 ; d20+7=11 ; d3+1=3 ; Tuesday July 12th, 2022 9:33:09 PM Manolo shoots B2, hitting it for some damage, but not as much as his shot would normally do. Mole dodges most of the flames and shoots an acid ray at B1, burning it for 2hp of damage. Mortimer winces even as he dodges some of the flames, and fires back a ray of frost that goes wide. Ash avoids most of the flames and fires another magic missile at B3. Drack calls for a spell to make his weapon magical, and swings hard at B3. He hits it, but isn’t quite as effective as normal. Loryn pauses. Torrynashkabbeth dances away from the flames and throws her spear at B1, striking but doing no damage to its surprisingly hardy form.
The mephits continue to cackle and attack, although B3 seems much less amused now. – B1 shoots a scorching ray at Mole in retaliation for the acid. It hits for 10hp of fire damage. – B2 moves up and breathes fire on Manolo, Ash, Mortimer, Mole, and Heorstan. You each take 3hp of damage, DC13 save for half. – B3 and B4 five foot step to flank Drack, and attack with their claws. Only one claw hits, doing 3hp of damage.
The fire mephits are all AC 17/Touch 14 DR5/Magic
Fire Mephit B1 -6 hp Fire Mephit B2 Fire Mephit B3 -18 hp Fire Mephit B4
Mortimer moves with a blurry swiftness. The latest fiery attack is but a mild annoyance.
He attempts to send another Ray of Frost at the injured mephit (B3).
(Mortimer casts Ray of Frost at B3. ASF10%: 35. Hit Touch AC: 11. Damage: 3 Cold Damage.)
Every failed attack is more and more infuriating. The young sorcerer is beginning to take this personally. The whites of his eyes go black as pitch with the swell of anger within him. Even the air around him becomes noticeably cooler.
Torrynashkabbeth HP:21 AC:20 F4: R:6 W:7 d20=6 ; d20=1 ; Wednesday July 13th, 2022 5:59:04 AM
Torryn had an idea. She didn't have very many, so was particularly pleased when this one presented itself. Of course, it was one of HER ideas so there was no little risk involved. Nor was there any guarantee of success. Still, having thought of it she felt compelled to try.
(OOC: Please feel free to amend the following if I am overstretching)
Torryn tumbled backwards diagonally away from the nasty critter hovering before her (B2).
(First roll Acrobatics +7: 13. This to reduce the chance of any AoO.)
Having dodged aside (hopefully)., she called upon her patrons as a Sacred Dancer to help her vanquish her foes. (Smite Evil). She then unleashed her empowered Fey Spark at the foul creature near Loryn. (B1).
Fizzle.
Nothing happened!
That wasn't right. Clearly she had to get right in its face and punch it!
(Smite Evil is still in effect against B2; so it (and only it) is trying to hit AC:23. She's 20 versus the others. She's now at I.13. and will close with B1)
It seemed clear that the horrid creatures possessed some ability to curse their victims with misfortune and to negate their magic. There could be no other reason why she and Morty were having such abominably bad luck.
Drack (Chris J) - hp 21/30 - AC 17 - con -2 d20+7=10 ; Wednesday July 13th, 2022 8:41:13 AM
Drack presses his attack on B3, missing horribly (ac 10).
Mole; (RichP) AC 18; HP 20/33; CMD 15 d20+4=16 ; d6+1=3 ; Wednesday July 13th, 2022 9:10:05 AM
Mole tries to get out of the way of the ray of flame, but catches it squarely in the shoulder. He returns the favor towards the creature.
Acid Ray: R Touch AC16, damage 3
Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 17/23 d20+2=5 ; Wednesday July 13th, 2022 10:23:57 AM
Ash isn't as lucky this time, as he takes the brunt of the fire.
He answers back with another spell, this time A Sleep spell trying to get as many as possible.
AC 13 HP 11/19 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K d20+3=20 ; Wednesday July 13th, 2022 11:36:12 AM
Loryn dodges left to escape the worst of the fire blast. Reflex 20
“You got it!” He replies to Drack. Loryn moves to Drack and casts Magic Weapon on Drack
AC 13 HP 11/19 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K d20+3=20 ; 3d4(4+3+3)=10 Wednesday July 13th, 2022 2:29:12 PM
As the pair flanks Drack, Loryn steps back and casts Burning Hands, converting the energy to Acidic.
Reflex 14 for half
Manolo (Michael A) -- AC 17/15/12 -- CMD 17 -- HP 12/13 d20+7=17 ; d20+5=15 ; d8=8 ; Wednesday July 13th, 2022 8:07:25 PM
Manolo moves quickly only to get a small flame, 'nothing that will hurt me', he thinks as he feels quite lucky. He tries to reload the crossbow and shoot again but misses the shot as the little flame spread heat across his shoulder.
Reflex 17 Attack 15 Damage 8
DM BatMark -- Fire! Fire! Huhuhuh d20+5=15 ; d20+3=20 ; d20+5=9 ; d20+5=12 ; d20+7=11 ; d20+7=18 ; d20+7=20 ; d20+7=19 ; 3d3+3=11 ; Wednesday July 13th, 2022 8:47:39 PM Manolo takes a shot, but misses. Mole takes the brunt of the flame from B2. He shoots a ray back, but it misses as he tries to thread the ray past his companions and into melee (-8 total penalty). Mortimer evades most of the flame, but his aim is spoiled and his cold ray goes astray. Ash also eats a boatload of flame, then retaliates with a sleep spell aimed at B2 & B3. B2 yawns, but shakes off the effects of the spell. Drack presses the attack on B3, unsuccessfully. Loryn dodges the fire, moves to enchant Drack’s weapon, the whirls to cast a spray of acid at B2 and B3. Torrynashkabbeth tumbles backwards, but the quick little thing gets a claw swipe at her as she goes. Lucky for her, it misses! Unfortunately, her fey spark fizzles.
Loryn’s spray of acid is too much for B3, who slumps into a steaming pile of gooey flesh with something sparkly on top.
B1 makes some gestures at Drack. Please make a DC14 Will save.
B2 makes a five foot step to flank Drack again, making two claw attacks. B4 does the same, and Drack takes a total of 11 hp of damage from three hits.
The fire mephits are all AC 17/Touch 14 DR5/Magic
Fire Mephit B1 -6 hp Fire Mephit B2 -10 hp Fire Mephit B3 dead Fire Mephit B4
Torrynashkabbeth HP:21 AC:20 F4: R:6 W:7 d20=8 ; d6=5 ; Thursday July 14th, 2022 5:35:22 AM
Torryn figured that all that moving had likely disrupted her concentration. So this time, poised and ready, she'd definitely - HIT!
(8+8: 16 . From Base and Smite Evil. vs B1 Damage 5+2 from Smite Evil:70
The Fey spark leapt from her hand to unerringly strike the vile fiery creature.
Drack (Chris J) - hp 12/30 - AC 17 - con -2 d20+6=22 ; d20+8=28 ; d20+8=10 ; d10+5=7 ; d6=2 ; Thursday July 14th, 2022 7:13:59 AM
Drack ignores whatever spell the little monster cast at him(will save 22), he can't however ignore the multiple hits dealt to him. Realizing that the two of these things together is enough to take him down, he does his best to reduce the odds, and attacks B2 again, this time with Loryn's magic weapon spell.
Drack hits once(ac 28), but fails to connect on the critical again. 7pts. damage
Drack then lays hands on himself, and restores 2 whole hit points.(swift action, no AoO)
Mole; (RichP) AC 18; HP 20/33; CMD 15 d20+11=21 ; d8+3=9 ; Thursday July 14th, 2022 11:17:59 AM
Mole moves and cast a spell, defensively on Drack. "Gabhail ri leigheas na tìre." A green glowing light encompasses Drack healing his body.
Defensive Cast DC21; CLW - healing for 9 points on Drack.
Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.): ac:21/17/18. hp:17/21 Shield d100=23 ; d20+6=12 ; d6=1 ; Thursday July 14th, 2022 6:55:50 PM
Mortimer whispers words of power, delivered with a hissing serpentine quality. The flesh of his right hand erupts in a flash of dull, blue energy. One can clearly see the black, silhouetted shapes of the bones in his hand.
The pale sorcerer swiftly and carefully moves around (H19) behind one of the mephits(B4) fighting with Drack; taking up a flanking position. He strikes!
(Mortimer casts Chill Touch. Flanking Attack. ASF10%: 23. Charges: 3. Hit TouchAC: 12. Damage: 1 neg. energy damage. Fort Save: 15 vs. -1 Strength damage.)
Mortimer growls with frustration from his lackluster performance. A ghostly voice bellows within his head, only a voice he can hear, 'Stop this childish tantrum. Wield your anger like a weapon; harness its power. Try not to choke on it!'
Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 17/23 2d4+2=8 ; Thursday July 14th, 2022 8:17:29 PM
Back to the original plan Ash says to himself, as he unleashes his last magic missle at B4.
8 dmg
Manolo (Michael A) -- AC 17/15/12 -- CMD 17 -- HP 12/13 d20+5=10 ; d8=4 ; d6+1=7 ; Thursday July 14th, 2022 8:28:39 PM
Manolo shouts at the Fire Mephit "Over here ugly!"
Attack 10 Damage 4 Sneak Attack 7 (if it applies here, in case of a flank)
DM BatMark -- Regroup! d20+5=24 ; d3+1=2 ; Thursday July 14th, 2022 10:46:37 PM Manolo takes a swing at B2 but misses widely. Mole carefully casts a healing spell on Drack in the midst of battle, giving him back 9hp! Mortimer tries a nasty sounding spell on B4, but fails to connect. Ash blasts B4 with his last magic missile for 8 hp of damage. Drack shakes off the heat metal spell, barely feeling a wave of warmth. He hits B4 with his newly enchanted weapon, which seems to work just fine against the mephit. Loryn Torrynashkabbeth smites B1 for 7hp of damage! Her ranged attack does draw an attack of opportunity from B2, though.
Torryn gets ripped for 2hp of damage by B2 when it seizes the opportunity raised by her fey spark attack. It then withdraws backwards and 40’ up into the air, avoiding attacks of opportunity. B1 and B4 do the same.
The fire mephits are all AC 17/Touch 14 DR5/Magic
Fire Mephit B1 -13 hp Fire Mephit B2 -10 hp Fire Mephit B3 dead Fire Mephit B4 -15hp
Torrynashkabbeth HP:19/21 AC:24 F4: R:6 W:7 Friday July 15th, 2022 4:39:43 AM
It was a scratch. Nothing more, but it upset Torryn. She was better than that - better than these "things. That wasn't going to happen again. She summoned her magic and invoked her Fey shield. Her Fey Spark would fly on their next sortie.
(OOC: Darn that little thing did well hitting AC:23. Fixed that. Torryn is now AC:24 - front facing - to all and AC:27 vs B.1.)
Drack (Chris J) - hp 21/30 - AC 17 - con -2 d20+4=6 ; Friday July 15th, 2022 8:31:14 AM
"Thanks Mole."
Drack sheathes his sword, and pulls out his bow. "I'm not going to do much damage to them with this unless I get a couple of good shots off."
Drack fires an arrow at B4, which misses wildly
"Any of you casters got some something for flying bad guys?"
Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.): ac:21/17/18. hp:17/21 Shield Friday July 15th, 2022 11:57:13 AM
Mortimer grimly remarks, "Yeah, but they're out of range for my spells."
Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.): ac:21/17/18. hp:17/21 Shield Friday July 15th, 2022 12:05:42 PM
He adds, "Where are the gobbys and orcos; the random ghoully or skelly? What's with all these weird, bum muppets?"
Manolo (Michael A) -- AC 17/15/12 -- CMD 17 -- HP 12/13 d20+5=23 ; d8=1 ; Friday July 15th, 2022 8:31:09 PM
Manolo aims again and shoots. (B2) Attack 23 Damage 1
Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.): ac:21/17/18. hp:17/21 Shield d20+4=21 ; d4=1 ; Friday July 15th, 2022 9:14:10 PM
Mortimer doesn't let this set back stop him. He's always been persistent. He always lived my the motto, 'If at first you don't succeed, fail, fail again!'
He takes his dagger, having nothing else he can throw, and sends it flying at the mephit he attacked just before (B4). "OYE, LIL' FIRE BABY!! RUNNIN' OFF TA MUMSY, ARE YA?!"
Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.): ac:21/17/18. hp:17/21 Shield Friday July 15th, 2022 9:16:17 PM
(OOC: Forgot to list my attack)
(Mortimer throws Dagger at B4. Hit AC: 21. Damage: 1 measly point.)
Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 17/23 d20+2=11 ; Friday July 15th, 2022 9:23:25 PM
Ash is almost spent, but he tries a new spell unleashing an acid arrow at B3 but missing.
"Almost out of spells here" he says aloud.
Mole; (RichP) AC 18; HP 20/33; CMD 15 d20+4=24 ; d20+4=19 ; d6+1=4 ; d6+1=6 ; Friday July 15th, 2022 10:25:10 PM
Mole sends another bolt of acid towards B2.
Acid Bolt: R Touch AC 24 (crit AC19); damage 4 (10 for crit)
DM BatMark -- On the ropes, but not quite out of gas d20+5=17 ; Saturday July 16th, 2022 10:00:10 AM Manolo shoots and hits, but to no effect. Mole fires a bolt of acid at B2, hitting it squarely and turning it into a plummeting pile of goo. Mortimer wishes for more normal foes, and throws a dagger at B4. It hits but bounces off with no harm done. Ash casts an acid arrow that goes wide. Drack takes a shot at B4, but misses. Loryn is stunned speechless but all the action. Torrynashkabbeth summons her Fey Shield.
B4 retaliates for B2’s death by shooting a scorching ray at Mole, but it misses, merely burning a line in the turf behind him. B1 seems to be biding his time. Both remain aloft and badly injured.
The fire mephits are all AC 17/Touch 14 DR5/Magic
Fire Mephit B1 -13 hp Fire Mephit B2 dead Fire Mephit B3 dead Fire Mephit B4 -15hp
Torrynashkabbeth HP:19/21 AC:24 F4: R:6 W:7 d20=20 ; d6=1 ; d20=16 ; Saturday July 16th, 2022 10:39:41 AM
Torryn had primed her defences. Now it was time to attack. A quick gesture, a whispered word and her Fey Spark left unerringly to hit the fluttering imp.
(I am unsure of the rules concerning a Natural 20. Suffice to say - it hits. B1 is still subject to her Smite Evil and so takes 3 points of Damage. Is there to be a second roll to determine if it's a critical? If so, I just rolled and confirmed!)
She was actually surprised. One Fey Spark had fizzled out. This one struck the creature practically between the eyes! It seemed that her patrons powers had overcome the luck-draining capabilities of the foul imps.
(2 Fey Sparks used Mage Armour and Shield used)
Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.): ac:21/17/18. hp:17/21 Shield d20+7=12 ; Saturday July 16th, 2022 10:55:42 AM
Since the mephits are 40ft in the air, and outside the range limits of all cantrips and most 1st level spells, Mortimer is left with no other options but to hurl insults and taunts, like he did the previous round.
Even through he hasn't connected with a single attack, he could, at least, be threatening enough to give others a better chance to hit ... but not anymore after their retreat. These creatures have clearly lost this fight, why do they linger, he asks himself. Even that Scorching Ray they cast, had no chance of hitting anyone, being out of range.
Mortimer continues to attempt to ignite their fiery tempers by taunting them with insults. Make them mad or make them cry, whichever comes first. (Intimidate: 12.. die roller hates me!)
DM BatMark -- Addendum Saturday July 16th, 2022 2:40:44 PM
(OOC: Mort is right re the ranges, sorry for the oversight. Let's assume that they are in the square 11-15 above their locations noted on the map, and calculate ranges accordingly. You can move yourselves on the map this round to get where you need to be if required.)
Torrynashkabbeth HP:19/21 AC:24 F4: R:6 W:7 Saturday July 16th, 2022 3:50:53 PM Torryn can make a half move to M:11 and still utilise her Fey Spark. Finding the map is no longer easy - at least not for me.
DM BatMark -- BattleMap Saturday July 16th, 2022 9:54:44 PM
AC 13 HP 11/19 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K Monday July 18th, 2022 8:39:27 AM
Loryn touches Drack again and provides the paladin with another Magic Weapon
"Sorry friends, my brain wandered off there for a few moments. Pickles, really who knew they were so versitile"
Spells Cast: Magic Weapon x2 Acid cantrip
Drack (Chris J) - hp 21/30 - AC 17 - con -2 d20+5=10 ; Monday July 18th, 2022 9:13:04 AM
"Torry, don't separate too far from the group. I'm staying near the spellcasters."
"Thanks Loryn, at least if I hit him now, he'll know it."
Drack fires another arrow at B4, this time magically enhanced. "Nuts. Missed again."(ac10)
Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.): ac:21/17/18. hp:17/21 Shield d100=27 ; d20+4=24 ; d20+4=15 ; d3=3 ; d3=2 ; Monday July 18th, 2022 10:55:45 AM
Mortimer realizing that the little fiery beasts are actually closer to the ground than he thought, he steps forward (5ft step) and sends a frosty ray of cold at the creature nearest him (B4).
(Mortimer casts Ray of Frost at B4. ASP10%: 27. Hit Range TouchAC: 24, crit threat. 14 Confirm. Damage: 3 + 2 x1.5 = 7 or 8 cold damage, DM choice.)
Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 17/23 d20+2=22 ; d20+2=10 ; 2d4=3 ; Monday July 18th, 2022 11:39:59 AM
"Last spell before cantrips" Ash exclaims to the others.
He lets an acid arrow fly at D1 connecting. 3 dmg.
Manolo (Michael A) -- AC 17/15/12 -- CMD 17 -- HP 12/13 Monday July 18th, 2022 7:45:04 PM
Manolo scoffs as he realizes that his crossbow and arrows are ineffective. He shouts out of frustration and does nothing else.
DM BatMark -- Fire is out! BattleMap Monday July 18th, 2022 9:15:37 PM Torrynashkabbeth steps up and lets fly with her fey spark, dealing 3hp of damage to B1. Mortimer taunts your foes, then fires a ray of frost at B4 that is super-effective. The mephit completely frosts over, falls to the ground and shatters into gleaming frozen shards! Ash hits B1 with an acid arrow, and the thing melts out of the sky to thud into the ground with a fizzy wet splat. Loryn snaps back to the present and enchants Drack’s bow. Drack calls for Torryn to stay close, thanks Loryn, and fires a hasty shot that goes astray. Manolo shouts in frustration. Mole
Your sparks, acid, and frost lay low the last of the fire mephits! Luckily there wasn’t enough grass or foliage this close to the keep to feed a brushfire, so just a few remaining tendrils of smoke curl up from the area.
Please make a perception check: DC5 Highlight to display spoiler: {There is some kind of ruckus over in the shops just to the east. You can hear clattering and chattering.} DC10 Highlight to display spoiler: {The sounds are coming from the same direction that the second group of mephits–which looked different than the fire mephits–headed towards.} DC15 Highlight to display spoiler: {Amidst the remains of the fire mephits are scattered small, bright objects.}
Fire Mephit B1 dead Fire Mephit B2 dead Fire Mephit B3 dead Fire Mephit B4 dead
Mole; (RichP) AC 18; HP 20/33; CMD 15 d20+10=23 ; Monday July 18th, 2022 9:40:19 PM
After the last of the creature is defeated, Mole puts out any remaining fires. He also points out the shiny stones among the remains of the creatures.
Torrynashkabbeth HP:19/21 AC:24 F4: R:6 W:7 d20=12 ; Tuesday July 19th, 2022 4:47:57 AM Perception:19.
"I think we should go investigate that noise straight away." She told the others and ignoring Drack's sage counsel set off quickly to do so. She still had yet to master the whole 'not being so impulsive' thing.
Drack (Chris J) - hp 21/30 - AC 17 - con -2 d20+6=14 ; Tuesday July 19th, 2022 6:32:00 AM
"Yeah, doesn't sound good. That's the direction the rest of the flying creatures went."(perception 14)
Drack moves with Torry, putting his bow away, and pulling his sword while on the move.
AC 13 HP 11/19 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K d20+2=19 ; Tuesday July 19th, 2022 10:06:48 AM
Loryn turns in the direction of the clatter and Drack and Torry heading out. He even takes a step first, "Right Torry, Straight awa- Oh, shiny baubles."
Loryn pauses for just enough time to grab the shinies and then heads off after the others
perception 19
Mole; (RichP) AC 18; HP 20/33; CMD 15 d20+10=21 ; Tuesday July 19th, 2022 6:59:07 PM
Mole follows after putting out the fires.
Mortimer’s jaw drops when the mephit iced up and crashed so splendidly. He hadn’t seen that kind of power before from that little cantrip. It felt different as well. He knew it the moment it was cast. Was it from channeling his anger; focusing those negative feelings. It was something to explore later, for something else has caught his attention. There amidst the mephitic remains were bright and shiny objects. “What now … what are these things?” He stoops down to pick them up and quickly examines them. As his friends start to head over to the shop, Mortimer answers back, “Yea, sure!” His eyes never leave the shinies. “Yea, I’m on my way!”
Manolo (Michael A) -- AC 17/15/12 -- CMD 17 -- HP 12/13 d20+6=8 ; Tuesday July 19th, 2022 7:36:00 PM
Manolo instinctively goes east, where the ruckus is. Perception 8
Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 17/23 d20+2=4 ; Tuesday July 19th, 2022 7:54:00 PM
Ashe is oblivious to anything. He moves towards the rest of the party, sticking tight with the others.
DM BatMark -- Down to earth folks BattleMap Tuesday July 19th, 2022 8:01:35 PM Torrynashkabbeth wants to investigate the noise immediately, and sets off impulsively. Drack agrees with Torryn and draws his sword as he advances. Mole stamps out the last sparks and points to the shiny bits in the remains of the mephits, before following. Manolo heads east toward the ruckus. Ash sticks with those moving forward. Loryn sees the wisdom of Torryn and Drack’s idea, but is lured to the sparklies first. Mortimer too is drawn to the shinies.
Heorstan, slightly singed from the earlier flames, has managed to crawl to the gate and is let safely inside. Those party members who stop the loot the remains Highlight to display spoiler: {You find a total of 2625gp worth of small fire opals and garnets.}
Party members who advanced toward the ruckus can make out a group of four creatures partly around a corner to the southeast. They are similar to the fire mephits, but have a dirty cast to their flesh, pebbled with small stone like protrusions. They seem to be having a grand time, biting chunks out of nearby buildings, scooping up troughs of earth with their claws, trying to knock holes in walls, and the like. It reminds you of a drunken crowd after their team has won or lost a major game of ‘head in the basket’ or ‘sticks and kicks’ against a major rival. They don’t seem to have noticed you yet, so engrossed are they in their merrymaking.
Torrynashkabbeth HP:19/21 AC:24 F4: R:6 W:7 d20=7 ; Wednesday July 20th, 2022 3:03:53 AM
Torryn moved up. (AA:16) and unleashed her Fey Spark. (AC:12) Sadly, she lacked the means to attack and hurt it physically, not that she seemed particularly adept in any case. Even her Fey Spark went wide of the mark. Oh well, at least she had its attention.
(OOC: The dice roller has a bad case of the glums - still)
Drack (Chris J) - hp 21/30 - AC 17 - con -2 d20+8=19 ; d10+5=14 ; Wednesday July 20th, 2022 7:11:04 AM
Drack assumes that something is headed after Torry since she fired her magic spark, and moves to AA17, and readies to strike any bad guy that comes within reach of his now magical sword.
hit 19ac, damage 14
AC 13 HP 11/19 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K Wednesday July 20th, 2022 10:38:30 AM
Loryn gathers and pockest the shinies with Mortimer and makes a note to say, "We are splitting this with the others Mortimer. Now lets get going to help."
Loryn spends a bit of time scooping up the fire opals and garnets, and then takes off as his short legs can carry
Group treasure 2,625gp in fire opals and garnets
Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.): ac:21/17/18. hp:17/21 Shield Wednesday July 20th, 2022 11:57:14 AM
(Happy 1st Year Anniversary Everyone!)
[b]I will add the fire opals and garnets to the Party Treasure list. Which reminds me I need to enter the treasure from the previous combat in the swamp.[/i]
Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 17/23 d20+11=17 ; Wednesday July 20th, 2022 6:46:23 PM
Ash tries to figure out if these Mephits are some other kind of demon. The postules make him feel some sort of diseases type.
Knowledge Planes 17
Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.): ac:21/17/18. hp:17/21 Shield d20+1=19 ; Wednesday July 20th, 2022 9:16:51 PM
After gathering up what fire opals and garnets he could find, he hurries over and joins up with the rest of the group. He gives Loryn a grin and a nod. Glad he took the initiative to help gather up the loot. Who knows, Heorstan probably had his eyes on it too. Mortimer thinks he should plan another visit of his laboratory. If his fingers are as sticky as his, he should have something interesting.
(Perception: 19)
DM BatMark -- Party Poopers BattleMap Wednesday July 20th, 2022 9:31:03 PM Drack moves up to protect Torryn, magic blade at the ready. Loryn lines his pockets with gems, lets the others know of them, then moves up a bit. Mortimer goes along with letting the party in on the looting’s proceeds, and hurries to catch up. Torrynashkabbeth moves up and tries to unleash fey spark on B1. Manolo Mole Ash identifies these creatures as earth mephits. They are similarly partly resistant to non-magical weapons as their fiery kin, but don’t have any special vulnerabilities.
B1 suddenly grows to human size and steps around the corner, walking right into the blade of Drack, who can used his readied action to hit the creature if he likes. B2 and B3 get closer but pull up short and exclaim, ”Hey, party poopers, why youz gotta go disturbing our dirt? Weez just having a good time here, and youz lousing it up.” B4 still seems to be enjoying rolling in the dirt and digging gouts out of the stone of the nearby building, cackling all the while.
Mole; (RichP) AC 18; HP 20/33; CMD 15 Wednesday July 20th, 2022 11:05:37 PM
Mole moves up behind Drack, but his movement takes him too far to do anything else.
Torrynashkabbeth HP:19/21 AC:24 F4: R:6 W:7 d20=20 ; d6=3 ; Thursday July 21st, 2022 4:39:53 AM
If what she'd been told was true; that magic was required to hurt these things -and the evidence did seem to support that, then Torryn was left with just the one rapidly depleting option: her Fey Spark. She flicked her hand out and that Fey Spark flew unerringly into the creature's chest
20! - it inflicts 3 points of damage NB: Torryn now only has 2 more remaining.
Drack (Chris J) - hp 21/30 - AC 17 - con -2 Thursday July 21st, 2022 5:44:23 AM
Just to confirm to him what he already believes, Drack will quickly use his detect magic ability before swinging(move action). If they are evil, Drack will take his readied swing, if not detecting as evil he will hold his swing and advise them that they must leave this plane and go back to where they came from.
Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.): ac:21/17/18. hp:17/21 Shield d20+4=7 ; Thursday July 21st, 2022 5:43:53 PM
Mortimer moves up behind Torryn and chimes in with as much charm he can muster.
(Diplomacy: 7, ack!)
"Hey... I'm not one ta poop on any parties, heh ... but that dirt belongs ta somebody. It's not polite messin' with someone's dirt. There be plenty of dirt outside of town ... more than enough for you all."
Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 17/23 d20+2=3 ; Thursday July 21st, 2022 7:02:08 PM
Ash is a little embarrassed when his acid splash spell is wasted when he spikes it into the ground.
Manolo (Michael A) -- AC 17/15/12 -- CMD 17 -- HP 12/13 Thursday July 21st, 2022 8:18:44 PM
Manolo stands confused and asks "What should I do?" , He asks "I can't hurt them with this", he says and points to his crossbow.
Drack (Chris J) - hp 21/30 - AC 17 - con -2 Thursday July 21st, 2022 9:05:23 PM
(Correction: detect evil, not detect magic.)
DM BatMark -- Huh, what did he say? BattleMap Thursday July 21st, 2022 9:44:44 PM Manolo wonders what he can do. Highlight to display spoiler: {They are DR5/magic, so if you roll well enough on damage, you can hurt them a little bit. Roll a crit (19 or 20 for a crossbow) and you can do decent damage.} Mole moves up behind Drack. Mortimer tries a bit of diplomacy, but none too eloquently. Ash has apparently joined the mephits in gouging the earth, dissolving a bit with his splash of acid. Drack detects no evil on the mephit directly in front of him, and holds his swing, while trying to persuade the mephits to scram. Highlight to display spoiler: { Note that you can only get the quick result by targeting a single creature. Also, you technically lose your readied action when your next turn starts, so you could have detected evil and used a regular attack, but not a readied attack in this case. It doesn’t seem to matter in this case, as it is not evil so you held your swing regardless, but just for future reference.} Loryn Torrynashkabbeth continues her fey sparking, singing B1 for 3hp of damage.
B1 looks down in dismay, back up at Torryn, and back down at the stinging from where the spark hit it. ”Hey, that waznt very noice, now wuz it? Youz better stopz it.” B2 and B3 listen a bit to Mortimer, then to Drack, but seem to get bored with their droning on, and start to fidget a bit. Perhaps someone more persuasive or scary could turn the tide? B4 continues to play roughly with the local masonry.
Torrynashkabbeth HP:19/21 AC:24 F4: R:6 W:7 d20=19 ; Friday July 22nd, 2022 4:52:48 AM
Torryn was momentarily taken aback at being scolded, but she recovered her composure quickly.
"Well, you were being naughty." She replied reasonably, if a little indignantly. "That's not yours to play with. I just gave you a little 'slap' to tell you to stop. So do not start crying and complaining. As to stopping, yes, I'll stop if you stop - all of you. Things don't need to escalate further, but they will if you don't behave."
Diplomacy: 22.
She'd tried to maintain a calm tone and not resort to bluffing or intimidation. Both had sorely tempted her, but she felt that to indulge in either wasn't really the way of a Sacred Dancer. Whatever would Dracky think of her had she done that!
Drack (Chris J) - hp 21/30 - AC 17 - con -2 d20+7=25 ; Friday July 22nd, 2022 5:34:36 AM
Drack will also use his diplomatic skill and attempt to work with Torry to convince them that they need to leave this realm and go home,(diplomacy check 25)
Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 17/23 d20+2=16 ; d3=1 ; Friday July 22nd, 2022 7:50:33 PM
This time Ashe connects, lobbing an acid splash at B1for 1dmg.
" If some of you have some big attacks... nows the time. "
Mole; (RichP) AC 18; HP 20/33; CMD 15 d20+4=13 ; Friday July 22nd, 2022 8:50:24 PM
Mole watches the other try to talk down the creatures. They don't seem overly hostile, more likely they are just playing.
What little warmth exhibited by Mortimer's half-hearted attempts at diplomacy quickly begins to cool down. He's well aware that Toryn and Drack both have put him to shame. They possess the 'gift of the gab' in this conversation and he finds it mildly irritating. This distraction prevents him from fully realizing that Ash, from behind the corner of the building, is casting a spell!
"What," he mutters as he turns around and backs up to the corner to find Ash and Manolo? He holds out his hand, motioning him not to cast, "What are ya doin', mate?! Read the room!"
Drack (Chris J) - hp 21/30 - AC 17 - con -2 Saturday July 23rd, 2022 6:04:57 AM
As the acid splash pops into the discussion and hits a Mephit, Drack looks over his shoulder at Ash, and gives him a quick unpleasant glare. He then starts to apologize to the attacked creature.
DM BatMark -- What will happen next? BattleMap Saturday July 23rd, 2022 6:25:27 AM Torrynashkabbeth offers a retort, it then makes a more even handed offer to de-escalate matters. Drack adds to Torryn’s deal making, and it is quite a persuasive case. Mole senses that these things are just playing around, although they are playing by different rules than are standard hereabouts. Ash starts to cast a spell to attack the mephit. Mortimer reads the situation and, in an attempt to save the efforts to send the Mephits away peacefully, tries to get Ash to stop casting his attack spell. Manolo Loryn
The moment seems frozen in time. Torryn and Drack are speechifying, Ash is wiggling his fingers arcanely, and Mort is waving him off. What does Ash do?
Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 17/23 Saturday July 23rd, 2022 9:52:05 AM
Ash intentionally stops his casting, looking a little embarrassed.
"Sorry mates... my mind saw mephit.. said time to fight. "
Mole; (RichP) AC 18; HP 20/33; CMD 15 Saturday July 23rd, 2022 10:03:37 PM
Mole waits for the reaction of the creatures. He hopes for a non-violent solution.
DM BatMark -- Adendum BattleMap Saturday July 23rd, 2022 10:35:41 PM
As Ash stops casting, tensions seem to deflate, and talks continue. The mephits grumble a little, but eventually shuffle off to where they came from. "Yeah, we can havz some lovely mineralz back home, just az well, and without all this nasty air and stuff. Youz guys aren’t much fun, but I guess youz are ok enough. See yourz laterz. You may have gotten rid of us today, but you will never get rid of Kandruth Walker!”. And they are gone. The mountain, ash, and impending volcano fade into the morning light…
The gates open and Phaedra emerges, clapping and praising you as heroes of Windhorn Hamlet. There are cheers from the militia men in the gatehouse, and you can here villagers calling out in relief from inside the keep.
(OOC: you each earn a hero point for solving the encounter without unnecessary bloodshed, or whatever it is that mephits leak when injured.)
Torrynashkabbeth HP:19/21 AC:24 F4: R:6 W:7 Sunday July 24th, 2022 7:01:05 AM
Torryn wanted to ask - 'Why can't we get rid of Kandruth Walker?' But the chance was gone. She turned at smiled at the warm reception. Once again she and her friends had somehow managed to save the day. It felt good, but it would be nicer if they had a name to pin such accolades to, rather than just being a group of individuals. Being independent and individualistic was all well and good, but there were times when only order and co-operation could succeed. yet, what would be an appropriate name?
Loryn was always full of good ideas. She turned to him and asked. "Say Loryn, do you think we could be The Bearclaw Crew?" It wasn't the most imaginative idea, but they were a team and a crew was a team, and they were from Bearclaw.
Drack (Chris J) - hp 21/30 - AC 17 - con -2 Sunday July 24th, 2022 7:36:08 AM
Drack takes a small sigh of relief as the Mephits depart, until they mention Kandruth Walker. He quickly pulls off his back pack, and opens it to make sure the book is still there. If it is, he quickly closes it back up and puts it back on. Drack watches as the Phaedra heads for the them, and while nice, accolades aren't what he's doing this for. He says a prayer to Domi upon completion of another succesful battle, and thanks him for the wisdom to know when to kill, and when to make peace.
Drack quickly turns to Mole "When you get a chance, could you fix me me up with another one of those spells you used? I still don't feel quite up to to my normal self."
As Torry once again brings up the the naming of the group, Drack chimes in "How about the Windhorn warriors?"
He then turns to greet Phaedra, and asks if there were any injuries or losses among the people
Torrynashkabbeth HP:19/21 AC:24 F4: R:6 W:7 Sunday July 24th, 2022 1:29:31 PM "Or maybe the Windhorm Wonders?" Torryn giggled. Not everyone was a warrior, but they each brough a bit of Wonder to the group.
Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.): ac:21/17/18. hp:17/21 Shield Sunday July 24th, 2022 8:44:29 PM
After hearing some of Toryn's name suggestions, Mortimer offers up his own idea.
"Been thinkin' up a name, I have. This place is known for Dragon Bay and the Sentinels that ward off the dragons. Now that the Sentinels are no longer charged, the dragons have returned, but this time, not to destroy. That's what we are ... 'The Many Headed Dragon'. Each of us, our own head, our own color, yeah. What ya think?" He looks around at everyone's reaction. "Inspires both awe and fear, it does."
Drack (Chris J) - hp 21/30 - AC 17 - con -2 Sunday July 24th, 2022 10:00:33 PM
“Well Mortimer, from what you said, a many headed dragon is what I’ve heard of as a hydra. Perhaps we should call ourselves hydra. It’s a little quicker of the tongue.(kill one head, and two more shall take its place).
Torrynashkabbeth HP:19/21 AC:24 F4: R:6 W:7 Monday July 25th, 2022 3:46:58 AM "Dragons are more noble than hydra, if I remember correctly. So I'd favour that option. Perhaps we could be The Dragonfold or simply The Bearclaw Dragons." Thinking up names was fun. She liked Dragonfold. It was a flock of dragons where they each looked out for each other.
AC 13 HP 11/19 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K d20+8=15 ; Monday July 25th, 2022 12:45:48 PM
Loryn gives a small smile as the situation deescalates without further violence. A lesson well learned, Not everything is a horrible evil monster to be destroyed. "Well done Drack and Torry, very well done indeed."
The gnome turns to Phaedra and gives a slight wave. "Thank you." Loryn purses his lips as the names start flying on what to possibly call themselves as a group or for easy reference by others. It was the last part that had him thinking on the thought the most.
"Having a moniker that others beyond our little hamlet could use to request or aid or send word, would certainly be of benefit in the years to come. Something straightforward and to the point I would think. Something that reflects not only what we are, but what we wish to be and be known for. Personally i would prefer to avoid tags such as gang, group, crew and such. I like the concept Mortimer, but I think the name needs to be more concise"
"Does anyone know anything about what our next problem very well likely is, this 'Kandruth Walker'? Is Kandruth a place and this creature is a Walker or is that it's actual name?"
Loryn's only area of any expertise was in Arcana, and so magical Beasts and such. Even then, despite what others might believe, he really didn't know all that much.
Know Arcana 15
Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.): ac:21/17/18. hp:17/21 Shield Monday July 25th, 2022 1:53:30 PM
In response to Drack's hydra, he replies, "Ehh, from the stories I've heard from sailors, a hydra is more a mindless sea serpent than a dragon." Upon hearing Torryn's suggestions, a smile forms across his face, "Dragonfold, yeah ... not bad at all! Though I see no need to name ourselves after the guard tower."
Mortimer's expression turns perplexed as he adds, "Why did they ever name it Bearclaw Keep? Doesn't fit at all! This is a seaside hamlet on the coast of Dragon Bay. Not some ranger's hunting lodge, high up in the mountains. When have ya ever seen a bear?"
Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.): ac:21/17/18. hp:17/21 Shield Monday July 25th, 2022 2:08:11 PM "Never heard of this Kandruth Walker; not until this book. Maybe we can sell it to that toff from the Sage's Guild. He's a bit of a boffin when it comes to these cursed things."
Torrynashkabbeth HP:19/21 AC:24 F4: R:6 W:7 Monday July 25th, 2022 5:48:14 PM
The issue of the name still dominated Torryn's thoughts. Dragons and hydras were all well and good, but was that really them? Loryn's objection to a collective noun was also noted. "Um...perhaps we could be The Starfold" She offered. "Stars are celestial like our gods and it's indicative of our lofty aspirations without being too threatening. I mean, no one actually knows what a Starfold is, so that's a good start. Um...it's obviously US though." She decided to shut up. Let others have their say. they'd likely come up with something far better anyway.
Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 17/23 d20+11=12 ; Monday July 25th, 2022 6:55:30 PM
"Dont the Dragon groups get a little testy when new groups name themselves anything like Dragons?" Ash asks. " I'd still be down for it, if concensus has it. "
Ash tries to recall the name in all his studies of the planes. Knowledge planes 12
Manolo (Michael A) -- AC 17/15/12 -- CMD 17 -- HP 12/13 Monday July 25th, 2022 8:42:29 PM
Manolo simply listens. 'It would be nice if that sage would have been here',Manolo thinks.
Mole; (RichP) AC 18; HP 20/33; CMD 15 Monday July 25th, 2022 10:21:30 PM
"Do we have any way to research this man? How about WLA? Don't some of you have access to their resources? They may be reference to him."
"As far as a group name, any dragon name seems inappropriate, at least at this point."
Mole remains silent. Manolo listens and wishes for the Sage to be here still. Torryn suggests a number of potential names for the party, and appreciates the warm reception that the heroes gain for Phaedra and the rest. Ash reminds the group that Dragons and those heroes associated with them tend to be protective of the name. He is pretty sure that would not be received well. He is equally sure that he has never heard of Kandruth Walker before. Mortimer likes Dargpnfold, but knows nothing of this Kandruth Walker. He suggests pawning the book off on the Sage. Loryn suggests a name with broader applicability if the party ever ranges wider. Drack wonders if Hydra wouldn’t be a better name than anything explicitly Dragonish. He double checks that the book is in his pack, which it is. He asks for more healing as well.
Phaedra hears you discussing Kandruth Walker, and ushers you into her office after a bit more cheering and celebrating. She relates what she learned from the preface of the book.
"There are things that dwell in the dark places of the world — terrible things that can destroy your body and shatter your mind. The wise man does not seek out such nightmares. But there are those who are unwise or unlucky enough to find the darkness. Reader, what you hold in your hands is an account of my travels in Norcia, Kingsport, and Kramah. These are not pleasant excursions, as charming as these places may have once been said to be. Some places, beautiful and idyllic as they are, undergo transformations and times of crisis. Norcia, the quaint cliffside village overlooking the Bay of Umbria was one of these. What happened to the generous and gentle people of Norcia happened through no fault of their own. Other places create their own undoing. Kingsport housed a proud and clever people. They did not learn until too late that cleverness is not wisdom. The city now lies in ruins, its people scattered. Too often folks approach a new situation with the habits they developed to deal with quite different circumstances. The last tale takes place in uninviting Kramah. It is a reflection not on trouble coming to find you, but on ensuring the precautions you take to avoid trouble are adequate. I, myself, witnessed the events I describe in these three places. I hope that you may learn from these tales without the need to experience what I experienced. Those drawn into darkness often find it infecting them, corrupting them in ways both subtle and disgusting. Learn if you can how to avoid them – the signs of danger may be subtle, but they are always there for those who can recognize them. Gain wisdom from these tales.
So that provides some insight into Walker, although even she is at a loss to explain much more. She asks what you intend to do with the book, now that you have it and the,immediate threat is dealt with.
Drack (Chris J) - hp 21/30 - AC 17 - con -2 Tuesday July 26th, 2022 4:23:42 AM
Drack nods at the kudos from Loryn, but he didn’t feel the need to say anything. He was just glad he didn’t try to kill creatures that didn’t need killing.
“Obviously, from what Phaedra says, Walker was or is a person. Fallen fist sounds like some sort of mercenary group. As to what to do with the book, I haven’t a clue. Sounds like a task for arcane spell casters. Either way, I’m pretty sure we shouldn’t read it.”
“Phaedra seems to remember a lot more than she initially did. Perhaps with a little time, Heorstan might have something to add.”
Torrynashkabbeth HP:19/21 AC:24 F4: R:6 W:7 Tuesday July 26th, 2022 5:07:47 AM "Perhaps that's just the lure." Torryn offered. "Given the stated 'credentials' of the author, it invites credence and the curiosity of the reader. So, it's a well written book. It doesn't mean that any of it is 'real'. I mean, that there IS sure a person as Kandruth Walker. To be honest, that's pretty unimportant. Reading the book invites the subtle shifts towards corruption that the book hints of. It's basically telling you not to read it. Personally, I'd like to give it to the snotty. old mage. At least he and his cohort have a lot of experience in dealing with cursed items. If that's not an option than I think that Dracky had best continue to secure it. The temptation for others to peruse its pages is too great to simply try to hoard it away 'safely' here...um...no offense intended." She finished weakly.
Truth be told, she didn't know what to do with the book. They could try to destroy it, but burning books somehow felt wrong.
AC 13 HP 11/19 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K Tuesday July 26th, 2022 2:55:51 PM
Loryn listens to the recap, "Fallen Fist, as in the Mailed Fist I'd wager. 'Fallen' sounds like a moniker that the Fist unit was taken out. In general The Mailed Fist is the largest mercenary outfit on the Elennian Peninsula. Disciplined, highly trained and tactically astute and a group we should approach with caution, but I think that is where our path leads. Resources of the WLA should be able to point us at the nearest outpost."
"I think we keep the book and start there. It also seems likely to me that what we have experienced so far, is perhaps what befell theses towns our good author is referencing. Somehow the fall of these places have been wholly recreated if you will in this book. Reading causes a reenactment if you will of the beginning or end."
Loryn turns to Pheadra and informs her that they will be keeping the book safe at this point forward
"I suggest we take a day to locate the Fist, set our provisions for the trip and depart."
Manolo (Michael A) -- AC 17/15/12 -- CMD 17 -- HP 12/13 Tuesday July 26th, 2022 4:05:13 PM
Manolo agrees with Loryn.
Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 17/23 Tuesday July 26th, 2022 8:07:45 PM
Ash nods as Lorryn shares some information. He was book smart, so knowledge if local groups and heroes was best left to another of his teammates.
Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.): ac:21/17/18. hp:17/21 Shield d20+1=2 ; d20+8=28 ; d20+3=22 ; d20+2=7 ; d20+5=11 ; d20+5=24 ; d20+5=13 ; Tuesday July 26th, 2022 8:36:16 PM
Mortimer nods his head in agreement when Loryn speaks of the Mailed Fist. To be perfectly honest, which he is not, this is all news to him (Knowledge [Local]: 2, natural 1). In fact, he struggles to recall the name Loryn had just called them.
"Yeah, I remember hearin' talk of that sort. Had another name for them, we did ... a less flatterin' one. A hard gang of toughies, for sure."(Bluff: 28, natural 20)
Mortimer decides he hasn't had a proper appraisal of the book. He looks over the cover and binding, NOT daring to open its pages. He tries to determine what kind of leather the cover is made from. Any writing on the cover and spine. Any symbols or runes present? Besides common, he's also fluent in Draconic and High Woldian.
(Appraise: 22. Linguistics: 7. Knowledge [Arcana]: 11. Spellcraft: 24.) Last roll was an accidental double click.)
Mole; (RichP) AC 18; HP 20/33; CMD 15 Tuesday July 26th, 2022 10:14:13 PM
"Wouldn't it be better to hide the book? If reading it causes maladies to occur, isn't it dangerous to keep it in anyone's hands?" he says regarding the book. "I can hide it easily enough. Preventing any accidental reading. Something to think about."
DM BatMark -- Chapter the Next BattleMap Tuesday July 26th, 2022 10:42:53 PM Mole wonders about reaching Walker, or asking the WLA for information. He wonders if hiding the book might be a better option. (OOC: sorry about missing your post last night, still wrangling with technology during my travels.) Drack is pleased to have avoided a fight, suggests not reading the book, and supposes that Heorstan might now recall more from the book. Loryn suspects a connection to the Mailed Fist, and wants to seek them out as a next step. Manolo agrees with Loryn. Ash also nods in general agreement. Mortimer nods along and relates tales of the Fallen Fist’s less than flattering past. He carefully tries to examine the book’s outside. Highlight to display spoiler: { The book is tattered, with a thin black leather binding, and a patinaed clasp. There are no other markings on its outside.} Torrynashkabbeth is suspicious of the book, and prefers to pawn it off on the snotty Sage, or at least have Dracky secure it.
You recall that Grog has an association with the WLA, and might be able to assist in your inquiries. As Mortimer examines the book, it, despite his intentions, falls open to a page that reads ‘Theophilus’ but is otherwise blank, as is the facing page. Phaedra, in a voice not quite her own, says,
”I was assigned at the time to guard Theophilus, Archdeacon of the Church of Caeroldra, God of Love. The parts of this story that I did not witness myself, I confirmed with those who had. Theophilus was a noble and generous man who was loved by all the local communities that it touched, for he was also treasurer of the church and freely used what it collected for the betterment of those communities. It came as no surprise to anyone that he was asked to lead the church upon the death of his superior, Cilicia. It surprised few when he turned the position down, for he was happy serving the people where he was and had no need for greater power. Alphonsus, instead, took leadership of the church.
But the city leaders saw an opportunity lost, for they could have profited from being home to the leader of the Church of Love. They grew bitter towards Theophilus, and schemed to drive a wedge between Alphonsus and Theophilus. Whispered secrets and lies set the region in suspicion and strife. Soon the jealous Alphonsus relieved Theophilus of his duties.
In turn, Theophilus was desperate for redemption. Baffled by the calumny, Theophilus turned to an acquaintance for advice, but was decieved, for the man was a dark wizard. Led at midnight to a place where four cross-roads met, he conjured an automaton of righteous fury. The creature promised to restore Theophilus’ position and name in exchange for a soul. My duty lay to Theophilus’ body, and I did not interfere. Perhaps he thought his soul already belonged to Caeroldra, and he could escape the bargain.
The very next day, Alphonsus proclaimed his error before all the people of the city, and restored Theophilus to his former post. The whispered anger died away, and all that the outsider promised came to pass. Shortly thereafter, Theophilus died.
After making his agreement, Theophilus was never the same. It may be that he worried about the loss of his soul. It may be that he never knew whether the beast he had bargained with actually had a hand in the events that followed. It may be that he mourned the diminishing of his beloved city, for it afterwards lost considerable stature.”
Phaedra then blinks, coming back to herself, and remarks that she had forgotten those details in the ensuing hubbub. The tale does remind her of the feeling she had when hearing about the encounter with the Betrueger…
Torrynashkabbeth HP:19/21 AC:24 F4: R:6 W:7 Wednesday July 27th, 2022 3:42:55 AM
Torryn was not impressed by Phaedra's recitation, nor the idea that traipsing after some mercenary group was going to resolve matters. She moved to quickly kick the book shut before anything else happened.
"I do not see anything other than woe coming from this book. As much as I dislike the notion of burning books, I say this one goes on the pyre." Mole had been vague about the "hiding it" idea, but she'd opt for that if she was over-ruled on destroying the book. She didn't like and wanted nothing to do with it. How could anyone have time for something that only brought woe?
Drack (Chris J) - hp 21/30 - AC 17 - con -2 Wednesday July 27th, 2022 6:26:02 AM
Drack listens intently as Phaedra almost to seems recite from the book on cue. He knows he isn't likely to remember it all, but counts on the spell casters for that.
As Torry goes to kick the cover closed, Drack jumps in, and slams the book shut. "not sure if using your foot would be a great idea. This thing almost has a mind of it's own. Mortimer had no intention of opening this thing, but somehow, it opened. I've heard of cursed things that make their curses come to pass. Question is, how did it come to be in Phaedra's office? What if it can call to some, and make them open it, or do what it wants in order to be read? I say we secure it until we find a way to safely destroy it."
"If we tried to burn it, I wouldn't be surprised if the cover started to burn, all the pages came loose, and spread across the area upon a sudden wind."
Drack carefully picks it up, and makes sure to hold it closed as he does so, so that it can't possibly open. While holding it, he detects evil upon the tome.
I think Heorstan has much more to tell us than he knows. After that, we should talk to Grog, and find out more about this Kandruth Walker or the people he was with. For now, let's secure it. "we need a cord or a belt to cinch it closed. if nobody has one, let's get one."
Drack (Chris J) - hp 21/30 - AC 17 - con -2 Wednesday July 27th, 2022 6:26:33 AM
Drack listens intently as Phaedra almost to seems recite from the book on cue. He knows he isn't likely to remember it all, but counts on the spell casters for that.
As Torry goes to kick the cover closed, Drack jumps in, and slams the book shut. "not sure if using your foot would be a great idea. This thing almost has a mind of it's own. Mortimer had no intention of opening this thing, but somehow, it opened. I've heard of cursed things that make their curses come to pass. Question is, how did it come to be in Phaedra's office? What if it can call to some, and make them open it, or do what it wants in order to be read? I say we secure it until we find a way to safely destroy it."
"If we tried to burn it, I wouldn't be surprised if the cover started to burn, all the pages came loose, and spread across the area upon a sudden wind."
Drack carefully picks it up, and makes sure to hold it closed as he does so, so that it can't possibly open. While holding it, he detects evil upon the tome.
I think Heorstan has much more to tell us than he knows. After that, we should talk to Grog, and find out more about this Kandruth Walker or the people he was with. For now, let's secure it. "we need a cord or a belt to cinch it closed. if nobody has one, let's get one."
Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.): ac:21/17/18. hp:17/21 Shield Wednesday July 27th, 2022 12:37:09 PM "How much of the book did you read?" He asks Phaedra.
"Well, at least the book isn't bound in human skin, which is popular among the toffs of high society," he adds. [b]"Made from mundane materials, it is. But I don't believe it would burn ... that would be too easy."
He considers what he saw when the book opened to the Theophilus tale and it produces a thought to consider.
"Oye, you all notice how all the words were missing from the pages Phaedra had read, yeah. I've been learning up on magic on my down time. Got a book from the WLA titled, 'Humperdink's Guide to Spellcasting for Daft Simpletons'. If you can get past all the insults and name calling, it's quite informative. In the chapter about Scrolls, it says once a scroll is read and the magic released, all the writing disappears. Maybe this book is like a scroll. If so, then the spell Read Magic would let ya read it, without castin' the magic ... maybe!"
AC 13 HP 11/19 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K Wednesday July 27th, 2022 1:13:30 PM
Loryn listens to Mole and also wishes the dwarf had been a bit more forthcoming with the details on 'hiding' the book. Perhaps some time of stone shaping type of thing. The gnome is wholly against trying to destroy the book. It is obviously magical and without knowing more, trying could make things so much worse.
Blank pages and a recitation by Pheadra Following on Mortimer's thoughts, "Almost like what has already been read, is now removed from the book to help it take shape or something. I agree that you are on the right path Mortimer. I'd prefer not to tinker with it until we know more though. Drack has the right of it. Let's tie the biter shut and I still think, our hands is the best place.
"Automoton of righteous fury? Anyone been keeping up on their planar reading lists? My opinion on our starting point hasn't really changed. We do have more names to the story though, to perhaps look into Theophilus, Archdeacon of the Church of Caeroldra, Cilicia.of the Church of Caeroldra Alphonsus of the Church of Caeroldra
I am going to speak with Grog and get access to the WLA resources."
Loryn heads off to do just that
Torrynashkabbeth HP:19/21 AC:24 F4: R:6 W:7 Wednesday July 27th, 2022 5:38:06 PM "Hmff." Grunted Torryn with hands on hips. Why did everyone else have to be so clever about things? Well, she wasn't going to see Grog. She and her 'stupid ideas' would just patrol and keep a weather eye out for more mischief.
She just wanted some time alone. That way she wouldn't be comparing herself to the others and their incisive ideas. Torryn was good at stuff - just not so much the thinking ahead and planning stuff. Now if there was some dancing involved! - Then she really came into her own.
Manolo (Michael A) -- AC 17/15/12 -- CMD 17 -- HP 12/13 Wednesday July 27th, 2022 6:15:18 PM
Manolo stands there mesmerized by what they have just been told
Mole; (RichP) AC 18; HP 20/33; CMD 15 Wednesday July 27th, 2022 10:09:08 PM
It is apparent Mole's suggestion of hiding wasn't getting it. "It seems I need to be a little more descriptive about hiding the book. I can head into the hills, I cannot be tracked, I am unaffected by terrain and I can make a clay hole in a rock only I know the location and cover it back up." He says letting the others take in what he said. "Basically, only I would know the location of the book. That means no one would be able to read it. As a dwarf, I am naturally resistant to magic, so I would have a better chance to resist any compulsion of the book."
DM BatMark -- Chapter the 2nd BattleMap Wednesday July 27th, 2022 10:26:04 PM
Torrynashkabbeth suggests burning the book after all, or at least hiding it, then hmffs when others have some good ideas. Drack slams the book shut and secures it as well as possible, while detecting evil on it. He suggests talking to Heorstan, then Grog. Highlight to display spoiler: {The book does not detect as evil, but Drack knows that curses, while not necessarily inherently evil, often nevertheless serve evil ends.} Mortimer asks Phaedra how much of the book she read, and speculates that it somehow functions like a scroll, with the words disappearing when read. Manolo is mesmerized by the proceedings. Mole offers to head into the hills, untracked, to hide the book in a rock. Ash Loryn is against trying to destroy the book, and suggests researching some of the names further, heading off to see Grog for that purpose.
Phaedra notes that she read the preface of the book, then was tempted or even compelled to read the first chapter, after which the book went missing. There is a knock at the door, and the guard Borad enters, with a blank look on his face. He impassively intones,
”There is a road I have heard of in my youth, a road that had to be passed, but travelers learned to be well away from the area when night fell so that they would not have to camp there. The place was plainly unhealthy, perhaps because of the dampness and noxious growth, the general sickish smell.
Those who died were not all cut, caravans were not attacked. Rather, their vitality was sapped: anemia, consumption, insanity or death. This much I knew before I first had to brave the road while hired to guard a caravan.
Not until I had to lead a troop through the region myself did a sage I knew set before me the notes and data which he had collected concerning the region. Long-winded, statistical, and drearily geographical as some of the matter was, there ran through it a continuous thread of brooding, tenacious, and preternatural malevolence which impressed me no little amount. A new and burning curiosity grew in me, and a determination to investigate the area thoroughly with a small force.
So it was that five of us braved The Road at night, with the intention to spend a few days there. What baffled us was our utter ignorance of the aspect in which we might encounter the danger. We had contrived to obtain ghost touch weapons in case it might be incorporeal. It never occurred to us that our venture was far from safe. But the thing – whatever it was – had shown no sign of bravery to date, and in our ignorance we found confidence.
We arrived just before noon, and searched the area for several hours. At last we set our watch and settled in for sleep. Sleep seized me quickly, and I was at once haunted with dreams of hostility and combat. Such is the life of a soldier, but these held a malevolence to which I was unaccustomed. I woke with a start before my shift, to find the man on watch dead and one of my comrades missing. After quickly waking the others, I easily found the missing man’s tracks leading into the ravine and we followed them by torchlight.
We picked our way through the swampy path, between fetid and luminous patches, until we found the man in one of the larger glows. He had a bloody sword in his hand. Though slumped into a heap when we found him, he leapt up and threatened us as we drew nearer. He did not then get the chance to attack us. Out of the fungus-ridden earth around him steamed up a vaporous corpse-light, yellow and diseased, which bubbled and lapped to a gigantic height. When it attacked, our resolve crumbled under its warbling cries and we fled.
That is the last I remember until waking with a caravan near the Float. They said I came into their camp in a delirium, clinging to rather than riding my horse. No doubt reaching the horse saved me; they are imminently more practical than we are. My companions were never heard of again. And whatever affects the merchants, let them thank the stars that distance slows the progression of their suffering.”
Much like Phaedra, Borad seems to snap out of his haze after reciting the chapter, and he looks around in mild embarrassment. ”Kinda reminds me of the whole swamp in my guard post episode, I think.”
(OOC: Feel free to try knowledge checks that seem appropriate, either now or after consulting with Grog as the WLA rep.)
Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 17/23 d20+11=24 ; d20+11=21 ; d20+10=18 ; d20+9=28 ; d20+11=13 ; Wednesday July 27th, 2022 11:09:15 PM
Ash scratches his head, trying to rack his brain.
Torrynashkabbeth HP:19/21 AC:24 F4: R:6 W:7 d20=9 ; Thursday July 28th, 2022 8:06:30 AM
All Torryn had was her burgeoning knowledge of matters religious. It really seemed woefully inadequate to cover such things as were mentioned in the book. (Know, religion: 13) It was a relief though that wiser heads than hers were prevailing. It was good that Drack was 'guarding' the book and that Loryn was asking pertinent questions. She was content to simply keep an eye open for more trouble.
Drack (Chris J) - hp 21/30 - AC 17 - con -2 d20+4=19 ; Thursday July 28th, 2022 8:28:01 AM
(knowledge religion 19)
"I've said what i have to say. You all are the thinkers. whatever you decide is good by me. Don't think I want to go down the road that Borad was talking about though."
once the book is strapped close, Drack will put it back in his back in his backpack. if nobody has anything to secure it with, he will ask Borad to try and quickly locate a cord a few feet in length, or a couple of belts that we might use.
"If I start feeling a need to read the book, I will let you all know. if I start acting unusually odd, secretive, or take the straps off the book, stop me... preferably not fatally."
Manolo (Michael A) -- AC 17/15/12 -- CMD 17 -- HP 12/13 Thursday July 28th, 2022 7:17:56 PM
Manolo hears more but says nothing. He stands by and says "Another one is probably coming soon to tell us more"
Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.): ac:21/17/18. hp:17/21 Shield d20+6=21 ; d20+5=25 ; d20+4=7 ; Thursday July 28th, 2022 8:54:25 PM
Agreeing with Manolo, Mortimer adds, "Yeah, let's get that Heorstan in here an have him tells the story of that volcano and those fire and mud muppets!"
He then makes a request of Phaedra and Borad, "It would be very helpful if you could put these stories to pen and paper, since they are now missin' from the book." (Diplomacy: 21)
Mortimer will also consider all he's learned of Arcana and Religion. "Oh Wardd, we could use a bit of luck if we're relying on what's in my noggin!"
"OHHHH ... that's right! I'm not so daft now, am I, you Humperdinkin' wanker," he says with satisfaction to the ghost of his book's author. Who may or may not be present.
AC 13 HP 11/19 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K d20+9=17 ; Thursday July 28th, 2022 9:56:52 PM
Loryn makes a face as Drack comments on the thinkers of the group. His father would certainly not agree. know Arcana 17
"Manolo's prolly right on that. I don't think it will help us much, but we might as well here the next bit. Wonder where the Float was when this Wlaker guy was there. I heard it got whisked away from Central Plateau a bit ago. You guys keep crackin,"
Lryn goes to see Grog and get the WLA ino, if any, on this Mailed Fist Walker guy and see if he can uncover anything useful
On a side not, "Not a bad plan Mole. Long as you don't unalive yourself and leave us in a lurch not knowing where the thing is buried," he adds with a smile
DM BatMark -- Chapter the 3rd Thursday July 28th, 2022 10:08:40 PM Manolo expects another tale teller to come along soon. Mole Mortimer suggests finding Heorstan to get the rest of the tale, and asks the others to write down their chapters. Ash wracks his brain for understanding of the tale. Drack secures the book further and gives instructions in case he loses control of his faculties. Loryn is ok with Mole’s hiding plan, as long as he lives. He starts to set off toward Grog’s place. Torrynashkabbeth adds her thoughts and is glad that folks were doing what is necessary.
Ash, Drack, and Torryn compare notes and remember that there was a Caeroldra among the Gods of Testing, who was God of Passion, but in this Age she is no longer listed among the gods at all. Flower is, of course, the current God of Love.
Manolo is proven right when Loryn opens to the door to leave, allowing Heorstan to enter the room and hold forth.
”The Town was in the well-known fertile region of the coastal Windbourne Hills. In its hollows begin the vine bearing hills and the celebrated effects of the juice of the vine, famous the world over, and, as writers have said, the venue of the greatest competition between Maab and local powers… These shores are watered by hot springs and in no seas can the repute of the famous fish and shellfish be equaled.
My uncle was stationed here when my mother drew his attention to a plume of unusual size from the mountain. It was a great height and appeared like a tree, with a trunk and branches. In places it looked white, elsewhere blotched and dirty. Soon a message arrived. Julius, a Fist Sergeant, was stationed at the foot of the mountain across the bay. He was terrified by the cloud and implored my uncle for a rescue. My uncle gave orders for a ship to be launched and went on board himself with the intention of bringing help to many more people besides, for this lovely stretch of coast was well populated.
Ashes were already falling, hotter and thicker as the ships drew near, followed by bits of pumice and blackened stones, charred and cracked by the flames: then suddenly they were in shallow water, and the shore was blocked by the debris from the mountain. Meanwhile, I had remained across the bay. We fared better, but not entirely well. Ashes were already falling within hours of my uncle’s departure. A dense black cloud was coming up behind us, spreading over the earth like a flood. ”Let us leave the road while we can still see,” I said, ”or we shall be knocked down and trampled underfoot in the dark by the crowd behind.”
We hiked several hours and had scarcely sat down to rest when darkness fell, not the dark of a moonless or cloudy night, but as if the lamp had been put out in a closed room. You could hear the shrieks of women, the wailing of infants, and the shouting of men; some were calling their parents, others their children or their wives, trying to recognize them by their voices. People bewailed their own fate or that of their relatives, and there were some who prayed for death in their terror of dying.
On the mountain, broad sheets of fire and leaping flames blazed at several points, their bright glare emphasized by the darkness of night. The buildings were now shaking with violent shocks, and seemed to be swaying to and fro as if they were torn from their foundations. Elsewhere there was daylight, but the town was still in darkness, blacker and denser than any ordinary night, which they relieved by lighting torches and various kinds of lamp.
My uncle tried to bring people aboard to escape by sea, but he found the waves wild and dangerous. Then the flames and smell of sulphur which gave warning of the approaching fire drove the others to take flight and chance the wild seas. My uncle stayed at the wheel while his companions hid below decks and prayed. When daylight returned - two days later - the damaged ship was in our harbor, all the people below alive and safe. And my uncle? He was dead. Intact and still fully clothed, he was covered in ash, still clasping the steering oar in an unmoving grip.
Many besought the aid of the gods, but still more imagined there were no gods left, and that the universe was plunged into eternal darkness for evermore. I could boast that not a groan or cry of fear escaped me in these perils, but I admit that I derived some poor consolation in my mortal lot from the belief that the whole world was dying with me.”
Drack feels a twitch in his backpack…
Mole; (RichP) AC 18; HP 20/33; CMD 15 Thursday July 28th, 2022 10:17:04 PM
"I'm goin' to get a drink. I'll be back in a bit. This story is nice an all, but I'm standing here as the line of story tellers keep us here." With that Mole heads out to find the nearest alcoholic beverage.
Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 17/23 Thursday July 28th, 2022 11:41:09 PM
Ash shares what little information he learns, and listens to the rest of the story. His mind continues to try and make sense of it all.
Torrynashkabbeth HP:19/21 AC:24 F4: R:6 W:7 Friday July 29th, 2022 3:14:06 AM
Torryn watched Mole leave. She didn't drink, but was sorely tempted to follow him. All the stories were well told and certainly invited the reader to continue reading, but what were they supposed to do about it?
Drack (Chris J) - hp 21/30 - AC 17 - con -2 Friday July 29th, 2022 7:54:49 AM
Drack listens with a frown to the story told by Heorstan, and frowns.
Until he feels the movement in his backpack.
A surprised and unhappy look quickly crosses his face.
"Mole. I don't think you should go anywhere. Something in my backpack just moved as soon as Heorstan's story ended. I'm not liking it. Almost like...The book is ready to continue it's tale."
Drack carefully takes off his back pack, and sets it on the ground in the middle of the group. He doesn't move to open the pack.
"What do we do? It might now be open and waiting to be seen by the first person opening this pack."
Manolo (Michael A) -- AC 17/15/12 -- CMD 17 -- HP 12/13 d20+8=27 ; d20+7=11 ; Friday July 29th, 2022 6:17:18 PM
Manolo volunteers to open the pack, he takes a spare bolt and opens it in a slow, calm and calculated way without hesitation. He doesn't think too much about finding a trap but rather focuses on opening the backpack in a safe way.
Disable device 27 Trap finding 11
Mole; (RichP) AC 18; HP 20/33; CMD 15 Friday July 29th, 2022 7:52:02 PM
Mole stops at Drack's suggestion. "Why don't we get that thing out of the city or at least to a large open area. If something happens, this crapped space will make it hard to respond to it."
Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.): ac:21/17/18. hp:17/21 Shield d20+1=9 ; Friday July 29th, 2022 9:33:25 PM "I must say," Mortimer professes, "that one, really got to me. Even in death, he kept the ship straight and true." He turns away to hide any hint of vulnerability.
When Mole announces he's going to get a drink. At first, he thinks that's a brilliant idea; until the book begins to twitch in Drack's pack.
"Why does this Walker want to tell US his story? Why us? Why now? All this theatrics was meant ta get our attention, I think. Well ... you got it, Walker. I'm all ears; eyes too. Show yourself."
Mortimer stares off into the shadows of the room, hoping to catch a glimpse. (Preception: 9)
(ooc: Knowledge checks were requested during the previous round. Did the natural 20 Arcana (25) check bring any enlightenment?)
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