DM BatMark -- Epilogue Pt1 Saturday July 30th, 2022 7:19:28 AM Ash shares what he learned about Caeroldra and ponders the mystery. Drack frowns at the story, then puts the twitching pack down. Mole starts to go grab a drink, but stops when the pack twitches and suggests moving somewhere safer. Manolo searches the pack for traps, finding none, then artfully opens the straps. Torrynashkabbeth watched Mole start to leave and wondered what the party was supposed to do about the story. Mortimer demands that Kandruth Walker show himself. Loryn
No sooner has Manolo opened the pack and Mortimer summoned Walker, then you see that the book is somehow atop the contents of Drack’s pack, and with a quick shimmer, flips open and the pages riffle themselves front to back. It is over in an instant, and the book transforms into a half-elf male who steps out onto the ground. He is dressed in a soldierly, old-fashioned manner, and is disheveled and wounded with a haunted look about him. He takes a moment to take in his surroundings before his eyes focus on you. ”Thank you, my friends, for this chance. I am Kandruth Walker. For freeing me from this curse, allow me to give you this token.” And he gives the party a silver armband shimmering with pearls.”
Torrynashkabbeth HP:19/21 AC:24 F4: R:6 W:7 Saturday July 30th, 2022 8:24:01 AM "Oh." Said Torryn, decidedly taken aback by what had just transpired. To think, she'd wanted to burn the book! That might have cost the man his life. Might. As Loryn and the others said, curses were not so easily circumvented and it likely would have had no effect - particularly given that it could move itself! Still, she did feel rather embarrassed. Hopefully Morty or Loryn, or Drack would say something clever and appropriate. For her, nothing sprang to mind. She looked to Ash, Mole and Manny, maybe they had something to add that would cover up her very presence.
Mole; (RichP) AC 18; HP 20/33; CMD 15 d20+4=5 ; Sunday July 31st, 2022 10:00:46 AM
"Hold up there lad." Mole says. "You hang on to that armband, if you don't mind." He says to Kandruth. "I wanna make sure you're not passing that curse on to anyone else."
Mole cannot sense anything from Kandruth. (Sense Motive DC5)
AC 13 HP 11/19 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K Sunday July 31st, 2022 4:03:43 PM
Loryn turns at Dracks mention of the twich in his pack. Manolo goes to investigate and Loryn finds himself holding his breath. He still very much wanted to back track Mr. Walker's adventures, but the party was not apparently as eager as he.
With the appearance of the spirit, Loryns eyes go wide. Imagine being trapped within a book. I wonder how that happened.
"You are very welcome Mr Walker. Do not be too disappointed witht he reception being given. The last few days have been trying. We appreciate the offer, but might we hear from you on the final moments you recall before the curse took hold and sent you into that book and what year was it?"
Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.): ac:21/17/18. hp:17/21 Shield d20+4=22 ; Sunday July 31st, 2022 7:44:21 PM
When Kandruth Walker appears, Mortimer is more surprised that the others can see him too. When spectres and phantoms come around, he is usually the sole spectator. The time is usually at night when the veil between the shadows is the most clear.
"Good to finally meet you, it is, Mr. Walker. Mortimer Margrave, at your service," he says with a nod."From what we've read," he adds, "you've lived an extraordinary life. How did this curse come to pass?"
(Diplomacy: 22. If Walker is familiar with the WLA badge, then it's 24.)
Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 17/23 Monday August 1st, 2022 7:15:09 PM
Ash starts daydreaming, wondering what it's like to be trapped in a book. He starts to stare off into space, oblivious of anything or anyone around him.
Manolo (Michael A) -- AC 17/15/12 -- CMD 17 -- HP 12/13 d20+6=12 ; Monday August 1st, 2022 7:47:55 PM
Manolo tries discern what is the half-elf motives regarding giving the armband
sense motive 12
DM Steve -- How did this curse come to pass? Monday August 1st, 2022 10:28:24 PM Mole tells Kandruth to hang onto his armband, and tries to figure out why he offered it to them. He thinks it might be cursed. Mortimer is surprised the others can see the half-elf, and welcomes Walker most graciously. He asks how the curse happened. Loryn is surprised by the appearance of Kandruth Walker, but welcomes him nicely. He asks about Walker’s experiences immediately prior to being trapped in the book. Ash daydreams about being trapped in a book. Torrynashkabbeth feels a bit of remorse at wanting to burn the book that just turned into a half-elf, and looks to the others to cover her embarrassment. Manolo tries to figure out why the half-elf offered them the armband. (He gets no sense of nefarious motives.) Drack is quiet. How often does a half-elf step out of one’s pack?
The half-elf considers what he has seen and addresses Mortimer when he replies, “You have reasonable questions, but I cannot delay. I must away. If I cannot complete my quest, I will once again change places with that cursed Book. It will come to the Wold and I will again be in torment under the Lavender Moon. If I fail, the best I can provide you is to leave your land so the curse won’t again visit your town. Farewell!” And with a flick of his cape, Kandruth Walker turns to go, offering the armband again to anyone who reaches to take it.
Know Religion or Planes – DC 19. Highlight to display spoiler: {There’s a strange bit of knowledge of a story linking a lavender-colored moon with a place called Koshe Marr.} DC 23. Highlight to display spoiler: {Koshe Marr is a plane of nightmares beholden to the Independent god, Marteus.}
Mortimer is going to let a pearled armband get away, if it were offered or not. If it were cursed or not. He reaches out his and takes it from Kandruth before he departs for his quest.
"Do any of you know what he meant by that Lavender Moon business?"
Once Walker has left, he casts Detect Magic and concentrates on the pearly armband. "Nice weight, it has."
Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.): ac:21/17/18. hp:17/21 Shield Monday August 1st, 2022 10:58:52 PM (edit: "Mortimer ISN'T* going to left a pearled armband get away...")
Torrynashkabbeth HP:19/21 AC:24 F4: R:6 W:7 d20=13 ; Tuesday August 2nd, 2022 4:43:49 AM (Know Religion:17)
Torryn was really rather relieved, both when Kandruth vanished and when Morty took the armband. She hadn't even had chance to determine whether it was evil or magical. She doubted that it was the former. Dracky would certainly have picked up on that. He did take the pressure of her, but she reasoned that was only natural: it was the difference between being a full-blown Holy Warrior and a Sacred Dancer. Still, she'd always be able to dance better.
Detect Magic
AC 13 HP 11/19 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K Tuesday August 2nd, 2022 8:08:00 AM
Loryn straightens a bit and pulls at one ear as Kandruth declares himself away, "Now hold on there captain go it alone. We can help you on this if you give us a bit on what 'this' is." He gives his friends a nod, expecting to see cheery and enthusiastic faces to join the quest, whatever it may be.
"Especially as you are saying that we here are tied to this book in some way and our little happy home is now under threat as long as we remain in it." Loryn hustles himself to get in front of Kandruth Walker and holds up a hand to stop him. "So you need to spill the quest and let us help so we don't have to just follow you and help anyways."
Mole; (RichP) AC 18; HP 20/33; CMD 15 Tuesday August 2nd, 2022 5:16:18 PM
Mole's concerns go on deaf ears. He says no more and start rummaging through his pockets looking at the stones for his next project.
Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 17/23 d20+11=12 ; d20+10=28 ; Tuesday August 2nd, 2022 6:28:21 PM
Ash recalls hearing of the Lavender Moon and shares what he knows. "There’s a strange bit of knowledge of a story linking a lavender-colored moon with a place called Koshe Marr. Koshe Marr is a plane of nightmares beholden to the Independent god, Marteus."
Manolo (Michael A) -- AC 17/15/12 -- CMD 17 -- HP 12/13 Tuesday August 2nd, 2022 7:29:56 PM
Manolo shudders. "Koshe Marr...Lanliss once told me about this....place.....a living nightmare", Manolo says slowly as his body shakes from fear for a few moments. "Gragul didn't scare him as much as Koshe Marr did", he adds
DM Steve -- a living nightmare Tuesday August 2nd, 2022 11:41:19 PM Manolo grows fearful at hearing about Koshe Marr. Torrynashkabbeth is relieved how turned out, belatedly realizing she could have detected for evil or magic. Ash shares what little he knows about the Lavender Moon, Koshe Marr, and Marteus. Mortimer takes the armband, unwilling to let valuables get away even if they may be cursed. He casts detect magic. Loryn gets in front of Walker and both demands answers and offers help. Mole’s advice ignored, he says no more. Drack again is quiet.
Mortimer and Torryn agree that the armband is not magical – which at least means it’s not cursed. The group estimates it to be between 4000 and 5000 gp value.
Kandruth regards Loryn. The half-elf is clearly not at his best right now. He moves slowly and deliberately, and does not appear capable of swift action. Still, he also carries himself with the unconscious ease of an accomplished veteran. ”t is not thee who threaten thy home, but I. Yond lytel, I wast cursed after refusing an unconscionable order. thee art not the first to free me, and I knoweth from the previous times what wilt followeth. t very much is best for thee and thy home that I beest not hither at which hour those orcneas breech the wold looking for me. those orcneas wilt befall within the cycle of the moon of Wardd. if 't be true I succeed at evading those ilk, I wilt returneth and giveth a more mete explanation.”
Everyone knows that the moon of Wardd is erratic, making the length of the moon cycle unpredictable.
Torrynashkabbeth HP:19/21 AC:24 F4: R:6 W:7 Wednesday August 3rd, 2022 4:05:54 AM
Torryn really wasn't sure what to make of all that. It did seem though, that she'd likely have to vacate her home and travel. Events were all happening so fast. She wasn't ready! She was just a dancer. Well, not 'just'. She was now a Sacred Dancer and so perhaps it was inevitable that she'd have to travel and bring the blessings of her patron deities to those communities that had need of them. Still, she had people to see: her parents and her teacher, not least amongst them.
Drack (Chris J) - hp 21/30 - AC 17 - con -2 Wednesday August 3rd, 2022 4:09:58 AM Subbing - Apologies for the missed day.
Drack did not want to bring the misery of the curse down upon the town. If such could be avoided, it was incumbent upon them to do so.
"Mole, if I prevail upon your kindness: it seems we are destined to travel and soon. Would that I were in better health. If your god could find it it within him to restore my vigour, that would be both helpful and appreciated."
Mole; (RichP) AC 18; HP 20/33; CMD 15 Wednesday August 3rd, 2022 8:56:11 AM
Mole was glad to see the bracelet was not magical, but he was still weary. The man's speech was hard to understand. Common was not his native language, but understandable enough. His speech was a different manner. It felt as he was speaking another altogether.
"Don't worry, lad, I can fix that stamina." he says to his large companion.
AC 13 HP 11/19 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K Wednesday August 3rd, 2022 3:42:52 PM
Loryn was having a hard time following the strange speech as well and he looked to the humans for some back up and the mention of Koshe Marr sends an unwanted chill down his spine. What child of the Wold had not been told of the tales of Koshe Marr at the very least as a tale told by an uncle or older sibling to terrify a child.
"So some orcs hunt you down and the area in which they find you suffers? If that is what you are saying, I think it best if we all away from Windhorn and see about what defense we can put forth to bugger these orcs when they come for you this time. There is no need for you to face this trial alone Walker."
Loryn was going to accompany the man is able and only looks to the others for confirmation of their resolve in his salvation as he was.
Manolo (Michael A) -- AC 17/15/12 -- CMD 17 -- HP 12/13 Wednesday August 3rd, 2022 5:17:54 PM
Manolo still feel scared, he can not understand everything the half-elf said. Manolo comes to his senses and asks the half-elf "Did you meet or heard about the Keepers Of the Vale? The Keystone ?! The party that tricked Marteus!" Later Manolo asks the party to tell him what the half-elf said.
Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 17/23 Wednesday August 3rd, 2022 9:00:58 PM
Ash is nervous with the mention of Koshe Marr, but hes more worried about the possibility of a group chasing Kandruth and the possibility of another fight. With no spells, and his stance on martial weapons.. the mage was useless at the moment.
Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.): ac:21/17/18. hp:17/21 Shield Wednesday August 3rd, 2022 9:21:20 PM "Yeah, Walker is speakin' Old Common. There are two or three in the cemetery who talk like that," he says nonchalantly as he finishes appraising the value of the pearled armband.
"And this Koshe Marr ... Priestess Noma told me all about it back when she took me in as gravedigger. In fact, whole town was once swallowed into Koshe Marr, it was. The Gold Dragon group brought it back. Noma calls the basement in the Chapel the 'Lucky Basement'. The only structure that survived the trip, there and back." Mortimer considers what he said and adds, "I always thought it was some kinda ghost story."
He carefully put the pearled armband into his backpack for safe keeping.
DM Steve -- a living nightmare Thursday August 4th, 2022 12:36:50 AM OOC: Sorry for the short post tonight.
Kandruth seems to be at a loss for how to explain. After a moment he sighs and says, "Sooth. Allow us compose a hasty retreat aroint from any dwellings. Doth thou hast horses?"
Mole; (RichP) AC 18; HP 20/33; CMD 15 Thursday August 4th, 2022 11:02:20 AM
"No horses. We gotta walk. Get movin' 'fore whatever it is shows up."
Drack (Chris J) - hp 21/30 - AC 17 - con -2 Thursday August 4th, 2022 4:11:50 PM "Alas, we are without horse at this time." Drack responded in a a manner that he hoped Kandruth would readily understand. He then looked to Mortimer. Horses were expensive. Did they have sufficient funds for such?
Torrynashkabbeth HP:19/21 AC:24 F4: R:6 W:7 Thursday August 4th, 2022 4:14:21 PM
"Gotta walk"? Thought Torryn. Well, yes, they could walk, but not without adequate preparation. She didn't have many things, but if she was to leave, she most certainly wanted to bring them with her and say farewell to her loved one.
This was all so sudden.
Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.): ac:21/17/18. hp:17/21 Shield d20+1=16 ; Thursday August 4th, 2022 7:04:50 PM
Mortimer replies to Drack's question about money for horses, "Yeah sure, we've got coin for your bog standard of riders. Me thinks a horse, tack and saddle would be 100 gold or so. Not certain what kind of selection the local stables have."(Knowledge [Local]: 16)
He turns to Phaedra and Borad to continue his inquiry, "Don't the town guard keep a stable of horses ... for patrol an whatnot?"
Manolo (Michael A) -- AC 17/15/12 -- CMD 17 -- HP 12/13 d20+6=16 ; Thursday August 4th, 2022 7:05:43 PM
Manolo will walk the group but keeps an eye and/or ears for anyone following or ambushing them
Perception 16
AC 13 HP 11/19 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K Thursday August 4th, 2022 7:44:10 PM
Loryn was not getting on or even trying to get on one of those four legged death steeds and others called horses. "Walking sounds like a perfectly reasonable mode of travel to me" However if time and distance were important it would be the more prudent move to ride. He would need a smaller steed, riding as a passenger would not do at all.
He followed Mortimer's question, were steeds available. If not with much relief he was prepared to head on on foot
Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 17/23 Thursday August 4th, 2022 8:25:22 PM
"How fast do we have to move? Do we have enough time for a rest?"
DM Steve -- Walking sounds like a perfectly reasonable mode of travel to me Thursday August 4th, 2022 11:38:15 PM Mole casts a spell to restore Drack. He finds the stranger’s language confusing, and says they will have to walk. Torrynashkabbeth isn’t sure she is ready to leave her home. When talk of leaving got serious, she feels the need to prepare and say goodbyes first. Loryn was having a hard time with the half-elf’s archaic speech, but reacts when Ash mentions Koshe Marr. He tells Walker he does not have to face the trial alone. He does not plan on riding. Drack does not want to bring any more curse onto the town, and asks Mole to help him regain his vigor. He explains to Kandruth that they do not have horses, and wonders if they have the funds to buy any. Manolo is still scared, and does not understand some of the half-elf’s speech. He asks about some heroes that tricked Marteus. He plans to watch for an ambush if they walk. Ash is nervous about Koshe Marr but more worried about another fight – if one happens now, he will be useless. He asks if they have time to rest. Mortimer explains that Walker is speaking Old Common. He relates that Windhorn was once swallowed by Koshe Marr. Mortimer estimates that horses would be 100 gold pieces each, equipped, and they have enough to buy some. He asks Phaedra if they can get horses in town.
A DC 15 linguistics check learns. . . Highlight to display spoiler: {The old common word orcneas does not refer to orcs, it means “devil-corpse”.}
Phaedra tells Mortimer that of course they will be able to find horses and ponies suitable for riding. She doubts they can find enough in one location. They will not be able to find combat-trained animals, though.
At the mention of walking, Walker becomes visibly shaken. ”I want the craft to walketh!” he explains. He starts for the door, suddenly decisive, but not quick, gently deflecting Loryn in any attempt to stop him. (It is easy for the party to keep up with Walker, who moves as if bone-tired.)
Torrynashkabbeth HP:19/21 AC:24 F4: R:6 W:7 Friday August 5th, 2022 4:22:06 AM "What does that even mean?" Asked Torryn. What was the craft? A collective noun for their group? Another term for knowledge? Or perhaps something else? She didn't know, but it was clear that Kandruth got his name from a definite love of 'walking' as he'd already set off.
"You know, if he's going NOW, I'm going to have to say some swift farewells and grab some things." She explained to the others. This was all so very vague.
Drack (Chris J) - hp 30 - AC 17 Friday August 5th, 2022 4:25:23 AM "My thanks, Mole and to you generous God. I feel much the better and ready to undertake whatever befalls us next." Drack acknowledge with a genuine smile.
"Let us see whence this fellow would travel." He then matched his actions to his words and followed Kandruth.
Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 17/23 d20+9=24 ; Friday August 5th, 2022 7:42:26 AM
Ash shakes his head in exaggerated annoyance. " Guess that is a no on the rest. " he says, as he falls in line behind Drack and follows Kundruth.
"Hold up... hold up" he says, putting his hands up to try and get a second. "orcneas does not refer to orcs, it means “devil-corpse. I don't know how i missed that."
In full agreement with Ash, Mortimer adds, "Oye ... a devil-corpse IS what he's sayin'! That's a bit more dodgy than some orcie git. Maybe we should find a wagon and two horses. Sounds easier to round up, it does."
Manolo (Michael A) -- AC 17/15/12 -- CMD 17 -- HP 12/13 Friday August 5th, 2022 8:18:46 PM
Manolo follows the walker for the time being.
Mole; (RichP) AC 18; HP 20/33; CMD 15 Friday August 5th, 2022 10:04:26 PM
Mole nods to Drack and falls in as the group moves out.
Drack (Chris J) - hp 30 - AC 17 Saturday August 6th, 2022 10:00:03 AM "Devil-Corpse? I have never heard of such a thing." Drack rubbed his chin as he thought over the implications of such a thing running amok in Windhorn. [b["Does anyone know anything more?"[/b]
Torrynashkabbeth HP:19/21 AC:24 F4: R:6 W:7 Saturday August 6th, 2022 10:02:11 AM
Torryn's eyebrows rose in alarm. She'd certainly never heard of a Devil-Corpse. It did not sound like a pleasant thing at all. She would be more than a little pleased to avoid having something of that ilk appear in her hometown.
DM Steve -- Maybe we should find a wagon and two horses. Saturday August 6th, 2022 12:54:41 PM Manolo follows Walker. Torrynashkabbeth does not understand what Kandruth is saying. She needs to say farewells and prepare before they go. Ash guesses they aren’t going to get to rest. He explains the term “orcneas”. Mortimer thinks “devil-corpse” is a bit more dangerous than “orc”. He suggests using a wagon. Drack thanks Mole for the help. He follows Kandruth, and does not like the sound of “devil-corpse.” Mole accepts Drack’s thanks. Loryn is quiet.
A DC 15 linguistics check learns. . . Highlight to display spoiler: {“I want the craft to walketh!” – Kandruth was complaining about an inability to walk.}
”Whither art we?” Kandruth asks as the group make slow progress around Windhorn. If the question isn’t understood immediately, then after repeated attempts and insight from Ash and Mortimer it becomes clear that Kandruth knows he has returned to the Wold, but does not know where. He is quick to grasp that Windhorn is on the Elennian Peninsula, slower to understand that it is within New Elenna. Still, that much knowledge satisfies him. He mentions spending time in the Windbaere Hills.
Kandruth has a good eye for horses. After looking at what’s available in town he goes looking for other things… He asks about the best place to get a bow, a lance, armor, and field rations. He also asks about where the wilderness is and where the cities are, seemingly pleased to learn that Windhorn is on the edge of the country and under frequent threat from the tribes of the Red Hills. Through the conversation it becomes clear that he is concentrating on outfitting a single rider, not the group.
AC 13 HP 11/19 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K d20+9=12 ; Saturday August 6th, 2022 1:29:56 PM
Loryn purses his lios a bit as some of the studied linguists add interpretation to what Kandruth is saying. As to outfitting single rider vs the group, he really doesn't care. They could outfit themselves and travel along. "Devil-corpse says to me the walking dead. Always a good time right?"
Loryn will outfit up a good solid mule or donkey. He would need one to have any hopes of keeping up. The gnome would simply trust in not being taken advantage of and might hint minorly at the magical problems that could befall the stable, owner and hands if he were cheated Bluff 12
In all between provisions and the mount, Loryn is willing to spend about 20gp to include 10 days of provisions for him and the donkey
Torrynashkabbeth HP:19/21 AC:24 F4: R:6 W:7 Sunday August 7th, 2022 5:30:59 AM
Torryn decided that it would be best to wait and see what Morty had to say about available funds. If they were going to be travelling, she'd need some equipment and, from what had been said so far, likely a horse. She'd had a few lessons in riding, from her father. She hoped that she'd remember them well enough not to embarrass herself.
Drack (Chris J) - hp 21/30 - AC 17 (sub) Sunday August 7th, 2022 5:34:51 AM
Drack understood "whither" well enough. Still it was strange: why did Kundruth speak archaic Woldian when the book was written in a far more modern style? Likely that wasn't important. What was important was ensuring that their continued presence did not bring a plague of undead upon the town. To be away swiftly and effectively, he required a horse.
"What funds are available to each of us, Mortimer? It seems that we are in need of transport and supplies."
Torrynashkabbeth HP:27/27 AC:16 F9: R:10 W:12 Sunday August 7th, 2022 5:36:15 AM
OOC: header test.
Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.): ac:21/17/18. hp:17/21 Shield Sunday August 7th, 2022 5:41:36 PM
Mortimer pulls out a scroll with a list of items and gold piece totals from his backpack. He does his best to answer Drack's question.
"From what I can tell, each of us have earned 3,000 gold ... uh, yeah, 3000 ..wow! We also have an unclaimed Flaming Composite Longbow (+1) and a pair of Trousers O Plenty. A collection of various potions and magical scrolls, we also have."
(*This list is from a recent email from DM Steve, he listed out everything we earned from each encounter of this module.)
Mole; (RichP) AC 18; HP 20/33; CMD 15 Monday August 8th, 2022 7:24:10 AM
"I'm gonna need to ride with someone. I cannot ride a pony."
Torrynashkabbeth HP:27/27 AC:16 F9: R:10 W:12 Monday August 8th, 2022 12:11:02 PM "You can ride with me if you wish, Mole. I will be getting a horse. At least that's how things are looking. Apart from Loryn, I probably weigh the least of our number; so I doubt that the horse will mind. If it eases your mind, I do know how to ride ....it's just been a while." Torryn offered.
Drack (Chris J) - hp 21/30 - AC 17 (sub) Monday August 8th, 2022 12:14:35 PM "Hmm, it's worrying. I shall need to purchase a steed, but alas destriers are not commonplace hereabouts and I feel loathe to risk a noble animal in battle. Still, if some could care for the steeds when trouble strikes, that would be one less thing to worry about. For make no mistake, horses and ponies are not stupid. If something unnatural or predatory presents itself, they WILL choose to flee." Drack aired his thoughts so that the others might also be prepared for what was inevitably to come.
Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 17/23 Monday August 8th, 2022 5:38:57 PM
Ash waits for the others to decide on the gameplan, if they're buying horses.. or one horse.
Manolo (Michael A) -- AC 17/15/12 -- CMD 17 -- HP 12/13 Monday August 8th, 2022 7:40:50 PM
Manolo keeps a watchful eye on the walker.
Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.): ac:21/17/18. hp:17/26 Shield d20+2=16 ; Monday August 8th, 2022 9:14:28 PM
With his Detect Magic still active, Mortimer turns his gaze at Kandruth Walker and attempts to determine if he is magical in any way.
He continues to walk along, wondering that it could be very possible that Mr. Walker could disappear as soon as he mounts a horse. If he is a spirit, then such an act could allow him to move on.
(Lingustics: 16.)
Mortimer thinks that Walker is walking fairly well for someone that is complaining he can't.
DM Steve -- Destriers are not commonplace hereabouts. Monday August 8th, 2022 10:47:10 PM Manolo watches Walker. Mole asks about riding with someone. Mortimer reads off the tally of items the group has recently acquired, and notes that in addition to the money there are some magic items. He looks to see if Walker is in any way magical. Ash waits to see what the others decide. Drack ponders the unpredictableness of language. He asks Mortimer about funds. He worries about purchasing a steed. Loryn negotiates for a capable donkey. He considers the implications of “devil-corpse.” Torrynashkabbeth waits to see what Mortimer says about funds. She has had some riding lessons, if it comes to travel by horse. She is willing to have Mole ride with her.
The shopping trip takes most of the day. During that time, the party gets a bit of a feel for Walker, having plenty of time to observe him. Although he does not have weapons or armor a bit of a picture forms from his callouses, the things he searches for, and the things he describes. Walker is a very experienced cavalryman and archer, used to heavy armor. He is also somehow wounded or weakened – he does not act as swiftly as you would expect. He appears strong enough, but no more than average in most other traits. How much of this comes from having been under the lavender moon is anyone’s guess. He has a pouch with some money – you would estimate much less than the value of the armband he gave you – and is carefully negotiating to get as much as he can afford. This is much less than he would like.
Late in the afternoon, as he glimpses up and sees Wardd’s moon, Kandruth gives a sigh of relief and gives in to his fatigue. He says, ”Those orcneas won’t beest coming this night, so i shall receiveth some rest.” and heads towards the stables.
(OOC: The language barrier is still there, as well, the DM is just not going to try to go through every detail in a post meant to sum up the day’s activities.)
Torrynashkabbeth HP:27/27 AC:16 F9: R:10 W:12 Tuesday August 9th, 2022 5:45:19 AM
Torryn did some quick mental arithmetic. She could afford a horse and a minor magical weapon, if what she remembered from her last visit to the catacombs was correct.
OOC: I did some checking. Light horses are listed as 75gp (non-combat trained). Can we similarly obtain heavy horses (not combat trained) If I recall correctly they are 110. A +1 spear should be 2000.)
"I could put that bow to good use." She offered. In fact she was likely a far better shot than she was at melee - except for when punching and kicking. She had worked hard to embrace all that Agratha had told her. She now felt just as adept at that as she did with the bow.
It was her plan to equip herself and then test out her steed by visiting her parents to say her farewells. Only having done that would she rest in readiness for the next day.
Drack (Chris J) - hp 21/30 - AC 17 - con -2 Tuesday August 9th, 2022 7:24:20 AM
Drack follows along with the others, and likely takes a trip to the catacombs, for himself and the group(details being handled by email).
If Walker buys a horse, Drack will grudgingly get one himself. "I don't know much about riding, but I suppose I'd better start to learn if we are going to start traveling by horseback."
Drack (Chris J) - hp 30/30 - AC 17 Tuesday August 9th, 2022 7:25:01 AM
(header adjustment)
Drack (Chris J) - hp 30/30 - AC 17 2d6=3 ; 2d6=4 ; 2d6=9 ; 2d6=8 ; 2d6=5 ; 2d6=6 ; Tuesday August 9th, 2022 7:31:48 AM
Before bed, Drack will Use all his Lay hands except one to heal up some of the party, using 1 on himself for 3hp, one on Mortimer for 4hp, one on Ash for 9hp, one on Loryn for 8hp, and two on Mole for 11hp
AC 13 HP 11/19 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K Tuesday August 9th, 2022 10:03:48 AM
Loryn knows that Ash wil be delighted that the group does not need to head out and that the wizard could get some well needed and deserved rest. Loryn firmly taps Kanduth on the hip as the man turns towards the stables. "Kanduth, we have room and beds. You are most welcome to both. A true nights rest and the promise of a hearty breakfast that does not contain any trail rations is what I offer. Come with me."
Loryn leads Kanduth to Minerva's and to a room. He has a thought, but he also believes Mole could track the horse if Kanduth tries something stupid, like departing early or even in the night. The gnome plans to get up early to start breakfast for the gang and puts several large glasses of water down his throat to encourage his body to wake up
Drack (Chris J) - hp 35/35 - AC 17 Tuesday August 9th, 2022 10:25:37 AM
Further Header update
Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.): ac:21/17/18. hp:17/26 Shield Tuesday August 9th, 2022 4:03:01 PM
(HOUSE RULE ON HEALING: When rolling the amount of healing for a cure spell, you're allowed to reroll 1's.)
Drack (Chris J) - hp 35/35 - AC 17 d6=5 ; Tuesday August 9th, 2022 4:07:54 PM
(Thanks: correction on the lay hands for Drack. 7 hp healed. I’ll roll them separately from now on. Wish you could correct 2’s on hp’s)
Torrynashkabbeth HP:27/27 AC:16 F9: R:10 W:12 Tuesday August 9th, 2022 5:13:03 PM OOC: If anyone still needs to be healed, Torryn can now assist with that. You do, however, need to catch her before she heads off to visit her parents.
Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 17/23 Tuesday August 9th, 2022 5:54:16 PM
Ash smiles and pumps his fist when told they'll be getting a chance to rest.
Manolo (Michael A) -- AC 17/15/12 -- CMD 17 -- HP 12/13 Tuesday August 9th, 2022 7:39:54 PM
Manolo makes a mental note to buy a horse. He prepares all his stuff and belongings for whatever they might encounter in their journey.
Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.): ac:21/17/18. hp:21/26 Shield Tuesday August 9th, 2022 8:51:33 PM
Mortimer takes Torryn up on her offer for a Lay on Hands.
"Don't need much healin'. Just needing a little. A good nights sleep will handle the rest."
He takes another look at Walker and whispers to others, "Me thinks Walker's wounds be very old."
Mole; (RichP) AC 18; HP 20/33; CMD 15 Tuesday August 9th, 2022 10:21:07 PM
If the group is not leaving that day, Mole will heal who he can, but he is limited because he cannot renew his spells until the following morning.
DM Steve -- Me thinks Walker's wounds be very old. Tuesday August 9th, 2022 10:44:51 PM Mortimer lets Drack and Torryn heal him and a good sleep will take care of the rest. He wonders about Walker’s wounds. Loryn tells Kandruth he can stay with them and not at the stables, offering a true nights rest and a hearty breakfast. He figures if Kandruth tries to slip away, Mole will be able to track him. He makes plans to rise early. Torrynashkabbeth is interested in a heavy horse. (Heavy horses are 200 gp. Combat trained light horses are 110 gp.) She is also interested in the bow from the betrueger. Manolo prepares his stuff for a journey and makes a mental note to buy a horse. Mole contributes to the healing as much as he can. Drack makes a trip to the Catacombs. He notices Walker being very picky about purchases. Drack helps the group heal as much as he can, as well. Ash is all in for a chance to rest.
Walker is very picky about horses he will look at, but eventually buys a light riding horse. He also gets a chain shirt. In each case, he would obviously prefer something heavier. The composite longbow he finds is good, but not masterwork. He would also prefer a military saddle to the riding one he settles for. Still, he does not grumble about what he is able to find, and does not try to buy more than he can afford.
When Loryn offers a real bed, Walker accepts after a warning that he cannot trust that the moon will not change tomorrow, and should be away as soon in the morning as possible.
The group is settling in for the night when there is a knock on the door. It’s Borad. ”Phaedra says you’re needed at the Happy Half-Ogre. Says it’ll be easier to let folks toast to your health than to herd a bunch of disgruntled drunks home come midnight. Or have you forgotten you’ve stood up for the town three times in two days now?”
From a back room come Kandruth’s snores – surprisingly loud for a slim half-elf.
Torrynashkabbeth HP:27/27 AC:16 F9: R:10 W:12 d100=60 ; Wednesday August 10th, 2022 4:26:16 AM
Torryn delighted in healing those that needed it, sealing the endeavour with a gentle kiss to the forehead. Of course, that was after she's been to the catacombs and the stables. It had felt very strange to spend such a a large amount of money. Given that she had so much, she felt it necessary to donate a tenth to the church. As a Sacred dancer it was expected and she didn't object in the slightest.
Before setting off to the inn, Torryn had collected her Horse: a dappled combat trained mare called Petal. She bought a riding saddle, saddle bags, horse feed for 3 days (knowing Petal would forage too.), a better traveller's outfit- although she retained her beloved boots - Trail rations for 7 days, a ubiquitous winter blanket a healer's kit and a magical (+1) spear! It had been a busy day. Incredibly she still had a good amount of money left over.
The prospect of dancing at the inn excited her greatly and she was one of the first to announce her readiness to attend.
Torrynashkabbeth HP:27/27 AC:16 F9: R:10 W:12 Wednesday August 10th, 2022 4:54:27 AM OOC: Having updated Torryn's sheet and checked on carrying capacities, Petal will have to be a Heavy Horse. Poor Mole weighs a ton! Add in the weight of feed and equipment and even Petal will be carrying a heavy load with the 2 of them, albeit it's not significantly heavy - as it would be were the horse light.
Drack (Chris J) - hp 35/35 - AC 17 Wednesday August 10th, 2022 7:12:44 AM
Earlier that Day, Drack prepared to head off to the catacombs, and wanted to double check with the group. "So, am I selling the pants and the magical bow, and we are splitting the remaining potions and scrolls amongst us? Seems like the most effective thing to do." After waiting for a majority consensus, Drack headed to the catacombs.
Drack will follow along with Kandruth during the day, to see what the seasoned warrior is looking for. Not sure he completely believes the man, or trusts his motives, Drack will also watch for anything that seems amiss. Drack will also pick up a heavy horse, and the necessary equipment. Not too many other animals would support the weight of him and his equipment.
Drack nods at Borad when the guard comes to request their presence. "Alright Borad, we will be there shortly. Drack will then grab his gear, and head to the Inn with Torry, and whomever else goes.
Mole; (RichP) AC 18; HP 20/33; CMD 15 Wednesday August 10th, 2022 9:46:18 AM
Mole will give Torryn 100 gold for the upgraded horse. He is a heavy load to carry and the larger mounts are more expensive.
Manolo (Michael A) -- AC 17/15/12 -- CMD 17 -- HP 12/13 Wednesday August 10th, 2022 6:49:27 PM
Manolo simply asks "Should I stay here to keep an eye on him?"
Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 17/23 Wednesday August 10th, 2022 8:17:55 PM
"This close" Ash mutters under his breath. "This close to rest."
He begrudgingly gets ready and heads over with the others.
Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 17/23 Wednesday August 10th, 2022 8:17:55 PM
"This close" Ash mutters under his breath. "This close to rest."
He begrudgingly gets ready and heads over with the others.
A free round or two of drinks is always a good thing. A little face time never hurt anyone. He eagerly heads over to Happy Half-Ogre to drink with his adoring fans. The same people who once crossed the street to avoid him. This could be a perfect opportunity to spread a little discomfort and awkwardness.
DM Steve -- This close to rest. Wednesday August 10th, 2022 11:12:16 PM Torrynashkabbeth made careful purchases and tithed as well. She looks forward to dancing at the inn. Drack confirmed his plans for the Catacombs with the rest. He watches Kandruth, half-suspicious. He tells Borad they will go do the inn. Mole helps Torryn pay for her horse. Mortimer happily accepts Board’s invitation. Ash sees a night at the inn interrupting his rest, but heads over. Manolo asks if anyone should stay to keep an eye on Walker. Loryn contemplates breakfast.
As Manolo questions going to the inn, Borad says that he can stay if they are worried about their guest. His heart doesn’t seem to be in the offer, but they know that he will stay if they take him up on it. ”You don’t have to stay late,” he says to Ash, ”but people will want to see you.”
As the group makes their way over the the Happy Half-Ogre, it is clear that both Grog’s establishment and friendly rival the Belt and Belch are doing good business tonight. Rumor of the town’s curse fills the air, though folks can’t seem to agree on just what that is. People stop to thank the group before they reach either local watering-hole. A few words and a nod in the direction of a bar seems enough to let them pass.
Cerdic beams when the heroes come in and moves quickly, shaking each of their hands. He offers a round of a local brew, on the house. Behind the bar, Valma sets up the orders. A chorus of offers of seats greets them.
Torrynashkabbeth HP:27/27 AC:16 F9: R:10 W:12 Thursday August 11th, 2022 5:26:45 AM
'Where's the music?' Thought Torryn. Wherever there was music, that was where she was going. After all, you couldn't really have a proper celebration without some dancing - preferably lots of dancing. She listened. It was so noisy and raucous. Was that a band warming up?
Drack (Chris J) - hp 35/35 - AC 17 Thursday August 11th, 2022 6:37:30 AM
“No Borad, you do not need to stay. Kandruth is not our prisoner, and is free to come and go as he pleases. If he does not wish for our assistance, we can not force it upon him. We are in the business of helping those who both want and need our help.”
AC 13 HP 15/26 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K Thursday August 11th, 2022 5:02:36 PM
Loryn gives a small chuckle at Ash's distress. "Ah the chores of fame my friend." Loryn gets ready, throws a Prestidigitation spell to extra clean up, and at his earliest convenience, adds a hint of lavender to the air about Mole.
He heads out in good spirits and with a sense of pride.
"Cerdric, a pleasure as always good sir. Now with a drink and such a gathering, surely there will be some music and dancing?" he asks aloud and purposefully for Torryn to hear
Mole; (RichP) AC 18; HP 20/33; CMD 15 Thursday August 11th, 2022 7:52:02 PM
Mole begins to sniff the air. "Lavender?" he says looking around only to catch Loryn's prank. "If yur gonna make something smell good, make it smell like bacon. Bacon makes everything better, even lizard tail tastes, and smells, better with bacon."
Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.): ac:21/17/18. hp:26/26 Shield Thursday August 11th, 2022 9:38:15 PM
After guzzling down a large portion of his pint, Mortimer plonks it down against the bar and inquires, "Did someone say bacon!" He whips his head around looking for any kind of meat source.
DM Steve -- Ah the chores of fame. Thursday August 11th, 2022 11:29:05 PM Mole tells Loryn he should have chosen bacon scent, not lavender. Drack explains to Board that Kandruth is not a prisoner, and does not need to be watched. Loryn uses his magic to clean folks up, with particular attention to Mole. At the Happy Half-Ogre, he calls for music. Mortimer hears “bacon” and looks for food. Torrynashkabbeth wonders where the music is. She listens for a band. Manolo and Ash get caught in the crowd.
Upon hearing calls for music, competing factions develop. Windhorn’s own Bedic brings out his lute, on which he plucks a stately tune. Anoushok – a traveler – counters with a long two-string instrument he calls a horsehead fiddle. His style of playing is livelier, but strange to the locals. There being little space for dancing in the place, the two are accompanied out back where it is easier to make room. They trade off songs – Bedic providing old standards, and Anoushok growing on the crowd in time.
Taking a cue from Mortimer, Valma sees that the party gets food.
With plenty of folks wanting to thank them, buy drinks for them, or wish them well, the group gets pulled in different directions. There is no lack of company, and plenty of chance for dance.
Drack (Chris J) - hp 35/35 - AC 17 Friday August 12th, 2022 6:46:07 AM
Drack thanks everyone as he goes, and consistently tells people that no thanks is needed. He also keeps an eye out for Angus, knowing that if the man was at or saw the festivities in the groups honor, he would not be happy.
At the first opportunity, he will slip away, and head back to get some needed sleep. Kandruth will likely be moving at first light, and Drack wanted to be ready.
Manolo (Michael A) -- AC 17/15/12 -- CMD 17 -- HP 12/13 d20=2 ; Friday August 12th, 2022 9:23:22 AM
Manolo drinks and dances with little regard to how well he could dance while intoxicated.
D20=2
Torrynashkabbeth HP:27/27 AC:16 F9: R:10 W:12 Friday August 12th, 2022 6:56:14 PM
Dancing! There was dancing. Fortunately delighted in all forms of it. From lively polkas to sedate waltzes, from simple jigs to dramatic flamenco, Torryn threw herself into each and every one. Yet it was not solely about demonstrating her skill, but about bringing the joy of dance to as many as possible.
Times could be hard. Events could overwhelm people. It was important to celebrate the good times and cherish them. Dancing helped create good memories. Manolo had the right of it: it didn't matter how good at dancing you were. What mattered was that you participated. Of course, in Manolo's case his memories would likely be less than clear.
Despite the prospect of an early start the next day, Torryn could not bring herself to depart early. She stayed and danced and brought as much joy as possible to proceedings as her own Thank You and farewell to her home town.
Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.): ac:18/13/15. hp:26/26 expeditious retreat d20+10=19 ; d20+22=33 ; Friday August 12th, 2022 7:21:49 PM
After getting some liquor and some food in him, Mortimer is feeling right well with himself. He is sincerely jovial and full of genuine merriment. With everyone else dancing a gig, he decides to join them. He recalls a dance he was taught by nomadic tribes that he travelled between cities. He would frequent use these caravans during times he was required to make a hasty escape.
With a deep bow and a flourish, he tries to sneak in a quick casting of a spell. (Bluff: 19, to conceal casting Expeditious Retreat)
He begins to rapidly stomp the floor, combined with quick, little kicks and gyrations. He claps his hands and slaps his arms, legs and feet when in reach. There seems to be a rhythm to his claps and stomping. Suddenly he performs a standing high jump as he attempts to leap up onto the bar.
(Acrobatics: 33 = 4ft standing high jump.)
If his jump is sufficient, he stomps out a few more dance steps and strikes a pose!
Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.): ac:18/13/15. hp:26/26 expeditious retreat Friday August 12th, 2022 7:33:59 PM
(ooc: sorry, my writing especially bad this evening. too tired to proofread. the jumping math used up what few brain cells i had left :)
Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 17/23 Friday August 12th, 2022 11:36:31 PM
Ash does his part of eating the food and drinking the drinks. He even does his part of accepting the thanks and graditude. When given a chance, he heads back and prepares his spells and naps.
DM Steve -- Ah the chores of fame. Saturday August 13th, 2022 11:45:32 AM Mortimer enjoys the food and drink. He even joins the dance, pulling off astounding moves – and few if any folks notice he is magically enhanced. Drack thanks everyone but slips away as soon as he feels he can. Ash enjoys the food and drink, then leaves when he can to get some rest. Manolo dances and enjoys himself. Torrynashkabbeth throws herself into the dance. She enjoys herself and stays late. Loryn and Mole draw a small crowd of their own. “Is that bacon I smell?”
As Drack and Ash try to leave, Cerdic stops each of them and lets them know that Grog wants to see them. Cerdic deftly finds each of the group and asks them to go to Grog’s table. The sight of gangly Cerdic two-stepping out to talk to Torryn gets a few laughs.
Since this is Grog’s establishment and (at one hundred eleven years) Grog is too old to tend to the day-to-day operations anymore, Grog has his table. People in town know they can find Grog here most afternoons and evenings, and no one sits without an invitation. For much of his life, Grog has been the town’s stout defender. For a time there, an adventuring group called the Gray Dragons made Windhorn their home. Grog was around when they were, and afterwards was part of the adventuring tradition the area is known for.
Tonight, Grog is sharing his table with Edwina Pippin, the mayor of Windhorn. He asks everyone to sit, and offers another round of drinks.
AC 13 HP 15/26 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K d20+5=8 ; Saturday August 13th, 2022 11:50:44 AM
Loryn smiles “Noted my good friend. Bacon indeed”. Loryn shifts the spell and the aroma of fine maple bacon wafts through the air about Mole. Loryn moves through the crowd and shakes hands, gives waves and all around makes nice.
He enjoyed a good time, but like any good gnome, did not over due things. ‘Too much of anything is not a good thing.’
He spends some time with Anoushok as well. The musician may have a few tales from abroad
Diplomatic 8
Torrynashkabbeth HP:27/27 AC:16 F9: R:10 W:12 d20=7 ; Saturday August 13th, 2022 1:01:28 PM
Torryn spun and weaved through the dancers to make her way to the table. She was smiling broadly as she cheekily perched on the end of the table. Grog was a good man, but she hoped his speech would be short, so that she could get back to dancing. Still, out of respect, she did her best to compose her features and not fidget. [Bluff:11] Torryn was not as adept at hiding her impatience as she was at dancing.
Mole; (RichP) AC 18; HP 20/33; CMD 15 Sunday August 14th, 2022 8:58:07 PM
All this attention is putting Mole at the edge of his ability to handle. He chases away several townsfolk with his crass demeanor. Although the invite to Grog's table is meant as an honor, Mole can't do it. With more attention than he could possibly deal with, the dwarf grabs some food and disappears from the tavern.
Drack (Chris J) - hp 35/35 - AC 17 Monday August 15th, 2022 7:57:08 AM
Drack happily heads off to bed once being able to get away from the party. It had been a long day so far. Once Cerdic stopped him, he inwardly sighed and turned back toward Grog’ s. “Sure Cerdic it would be an honor.” Drack says as he makes his way to Grog’s table to see what he wanted.
Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 17/23 Monday August 15th, 2022 8:28:00 PM
Ash inhales air and exhales it a little louder than he wanted to. Grog was a friend, and Ash could take the time to see what he wants.
At the table, he takes the drink but doesn't drink it.. as he really doesn't want to slide down that slope.
Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.): ac:18/13/15. hp:26/26 expeditious retreat Monday August 15th, 2022 9:14:12 PM
Mortimer begins to wind down from his dance. You'd think someone who had just exerted themselves with a vigorous dance and a leap would be somewhat winded; however he barely takes a breath. Upon hearing the request to join Grog at his table, he finishes his drink and makes his way to Grog's private room. He gives a nod of greeting upon entering and takes a seat when acknowledged by their large host.
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