DM James: The Carriage House - Exploration Map Thursday August 18th, 2022 12:52:19 PM Snark has a plan to refurbish the carriage and get it out. He also informs everyone that the Abbey appears to be influenced by the Fey realm.
Kristoph gestures at Snark.
Benni surmises that Fey and undead are common here and they should prepare for more encounters with them.
Teddy knows his flora and recognizes the non native plants.
The carriage was deceptively heavy and after a look they find the coffin carried with it to be filled mostly with soil. Four of them could remove it, but loaded as it was they’d need the horse to pull it.
Once outside they noticed as before when they killed the creatures in the outbuilding that the sky was lighter. Somehow it seemed that as they explored the Abbey more of the rift was closing. Once they got the carriage to the edge of the Abbey environs outside the wall the horse reverted to one that was normal and the sun emerged. It was still early morning.
Loaded with repair items they made their way back to town.
DM James: repairing the carriage will take an appropriate PS skill carpenter DC 15 or another PS Skill or Craft Skill at -2.
Kristoph: (Stephen C) | AC:17 | CMD:23 | HP: 26/31 - Blusinda: AC:16 | HP:21/21 Thursday August 18th, 2022 12:52:21 PM
Kristoph is ready to go too.
“Benni” AC 18/11/17 CMD12 HP 13/ 20 Onesimos (SteveK) d20+7=24 ; d20+6=12 ; d20+7=13 ; Thursday August 18th, 2022 4:03:47 PM
Onesimos’ mouth draws into a line. Leaking. That’s what he came up with too. And the fear, while at bay, is starting to assert itself.
The elf puts his shoulder to the carriage wheel and helps pull the treasure back to Heranmar. ”Nearly every encounter, my friends, has been with undead or the fey. And not just at the Abbey, but in the Swamp and with Captain Jack. I’m going to see what I can do to increase my arsenal against those threats.”
He leaves the unspoken suggestion for his friends to consider themselves.
Planes 24 Perception 12 Will. 13
Isaac Harker (Justin M) HP 40/40 AC22/ T13 / FF 21 d3=3 ; d20+3=23 ; Thursday August 18th, 2022 10:31:42 PM
Isaac notices the cracks and puts it together that's about where the tower is but asks Snark. "Whait the fey wild? Isn't that where pixies, elves and gnomes come from? Or at least originated from?" As the carrier moves over the rift(?) defing the normal world from the Abby he grins when the horse transforms and ask Snark "Is the carrier horse some sort of summon or spell? Because that was amazing"
Snark Riverstone (MarkB) AC13 T13 F10, CMD 12, HP 29/29 Friday August 19th, 2022 2:30:52 AM
Woo-hoo! Craft Wood finally has a use!
Snark is +8 on this craft skill, and he will Take 10 to succeed! Between that and the Mending spell, he should be able to get this thing fixed up.
Also, Snark will Take 10 on his Perception check to puzzle out the gesture from Kristoph. Then he'll good-naturedly return the gesture.
He responds to Benni, "Good call on being ready for undead. I'll see what I can do. And I'm gonna need a few days to sort some things out and get myself ready.
He replies to Isaac, "I'm not sure gnomes come frome the Fey Realm. Yeah, the horse was a summoned creature. I wasn't prepared for how the abbey affected it though. I kinda liked the plant horse."
Once back to town, we'll work on the carriage. We'll also get rid of that dead-guy dirt. Yech.
Snark will want to pay the wizard Olostim a visit to see if he can trade some information for a peek at some third level spells.
The little gnome also needs to resolve some things with the local druids before he reaches 6th level.
DM James: The Carriage House - Exploration Map Friday August 19th, 2022 9:35:43 AM
It was going to take a week to repair the carriage, plus Snark needed to consult with another to continue his training. Snark working alone would take all week, but if everyone pitched in the task could be done in a single day as long as Snark supervised and helped with the work.
Snark Highlight to display spoiler: {Didn't we address this already and he has to go to Hook City?"}
The mood in the town was still somber as those who lost people in Jack's rampage dealt with their loss. The heroes got good natured nods from the locals they passed, but anyone could tell the morale of the town was off.
They also noticed the town watch was more formalized as well and uniformed guards were starting to appear. Two at each gate, and four on the wall as they moved along it looking both inside and out of town. There was also a watch tower being built next to the trade house from stone quarried from the east.
The stone shipments were unusual in that the wagons were tended by dwarves. Rugged, dower, ill mannered dwarves that would sooner leave the townfolk to themselves than speak to them, but the councils gold was too much to resist. They seemed to have an appeal for the stuff that went beyond just a need for wealth and when handed a coin they examined it in great detail, even going so far as to discuss it's origins with their companions. They were strange.
Of the wizard in his light house there was no word. He'd been strangely quiet since Jack showed up. Most in the town suspected he was just staying clear, but some wondered if the wizard was just afraid.
DM James: Ok. Leveling should be happening. You can go back into the Abbey if you want, or hang out in town. If you decide town is it you'll likely be handed over to DM Jon soon. We also have a new player, Art and I expect him to make a lively appearance soon.
Gore'Thum and Teddy Treeborn (Mitch) HP 32/32 AC 12/11/12 CMD 11 Gore'Thum HP 30/30 AC 12/12/11 Friday August 19th, 2022 10:07:59 AM
Teddy and Gore'Thum, exhausted from fighting off the fear of the abby, go take a short nap at the inn they are staying at.
“Benni” AC 18/11/17 CMD12 HP 13/ 20 Onesimos (SteveK) d20+6=24 ; Friday August 19th, 2022 12:09:54 PM
Onesimos is thankful for Snark’s “Mount”, it makes bringing the carriage into Heranmar that much easier. Tired, he gauge’s the mood and moves about town telling his stories.
And then stops in at the WLA to help Akoka re-fix the paperwork again. (Good natured sigh)
…… Perform: Storytelling 24
Ooc: Hi Arthur (Dao)!
Kristoph: (Stephen C) | AC:17 | CMD:23 | HP: 26/31 - Blusinda: AC:16 | HP:21/21 Friday August 19th, 2022 1:26:48 PM
When Snark repeats Kristoph's hand gesture he frowns in puzzlement, then catches himself and blushes.
On the way back he opens a discussion: "When I was a small boy, I was raised in a house that had its own secret code, the language of sign .. well actually we had several". He begins making innumerable hand gestures "The servants had one version, the guard another. The royal blood even had their own version, which in reality, was all of the other versions in one as everyone only knew what they needed to know". The gestures suddenly cease and for a man who never displays much emotion he definitely grimaces for a second before continuing: "... Anyway the one I liked the most was the servant's gestures. I mean the very language itself lends you to 'serve' and 'assist', which I believe is important. If all of your vocabulary is devoted to ruling, commanding, decrees and so on I think it embeds a disconnection in your mind. Whereas humility comes from serving others unconditionally". He shrugs. "Regardless of your status everyone should serve each other especially rulers"!
He is silent for a while then repeats the hand gesture he did earlier (to Snark): "In the tongue of rangers and scouts this means 'Well spotted'.
Chewing on his lip for a while he then continues: "It strikes me we could maybe benefit from me teaching some of the language to everyone, I mean if you wish. It would allow s to communicate right under other people's noses, and allows silent communication when sneaking around. Just a thought". He shrugs once more before pushing on.
“Benni” AC 18/11/17 CMD12 HP 13/ 20 Onesimos (SteveK) d20+6=24 ; Friday August 19th, 2022 2:04:58 PM
Onesimos is thankful for Snark’s “Mount”, it makes bringing the carriage into Heranmar that much easier. Tired, he gauge’s the mood and moves about town telling his stories.
And then stops in at the WLA to help Akoka re-fix the paperwork again. (Good natured sigh)
Benni listens intently to Kristoph and seems both excited, proud, and pleased. ”I think that is a very good idea and for all the reasons behind it. I would be pleased to learn from you, my friend.”
…… Perform: Storytelling 24
Ooc: Hi Arthur (Dao)!
Isaac Harker (Justin M) HP 40/40 AC22/ T13 / FF 21 Friday August 19th, 2022 10:23:54 PM
Isaac is intrigued by Kristoph's offer "I think us having some sort of gesture language would be good. In dangerous situations when talking would give us away and in uncomfortable socialsituations it would be a god send." Isaac will also go down to the church to talk to the preist about his spell casting and about what had happened at the Abby especially the fey portal.
Snark Riverstone (MarkB) AC13 T13 F10, CMD 12, HP 29/29 Saturday August 20th, 2022 7:55:22 PM
(For the DMs - Yeah, I forgot the answer to Snark's prestige class will require a trip to Hook City. This can happen anytime, but won't be needed until he reaches 6th level. Let me know how/when you want to handle that.)
Snark is pretty excited about Kristoph's sign language. "Oooo. A secret sign language for the Luck Makers! This is great! I wonder if my pap ever had a secret sign language? He was an adventurer, you know."
(For the DMs - is there anything we need to do to learn a secret sign language?)
As for the wagon, Snark will lead the work on this. Anyone going to help?
He'll also make a run to the Catacombs to sell our loot.
Once this is done, Snark will take time to visit Olostim at his lighthouse. He will conjure a Mount to get there. (Let me know if this is not an optoion and I need to seek spells elsewhere.)
Jon S (James's other half ... he's the pretty one) Map Sunday August 21st, 2022 3:40:22 PM
I'm working on getting Art/Dao created and added so we can pick on him ... just saying
Dao (Art P) HP 24/24, AC 19/15, CMB 8, CMD 22 Sunday August 21st, 2022 4:27:48 PM
reTest
Dao (Art P) HP 24/24, AC 19/15, CMB 8, CMD 22 Sunday August 21st, 2022 5:31:15 PM
Hello. This is a test of the emergency posting system. Had it been an actual post, it would have made more sense.
Snark Riverstone (MarkB) AC13 T13 F10, CMD 12, HP 29/29 Sunday August 21st, 2022 6:48:57 PM
(Art - looks like you passed your test!)
Gore'Thum and Teddy Treeborn (Mitch) HP 32/32 AC 12/11/12 CMD 11 Gore'Thum HP 30/30 AC 12/12/11 Sunday August 21st, 2022 11:23:18 PM
Gore'Thum has no interest in learning some secret language he probably can't even do with his lack of hands. Teddy is always interested in learning new things and will express interest, but is to tired to work up much enthusiasm before his nap.
Dao (Art P) HP 24/24, AC 19/15, CMB 8, CMD 22 Monday August 22nd, 2022 8:50:50 AM
Hiram Jax, captain of the Persephone, watched Dao amble down the gangplank with mixed feelings. The man had been a hard worker, working double shifts the whole voyage without a word of complaint. He could handle rigging, wasn’t afraid of the crow’s nest and was a hell of a rower, but he was a strange one. Poor, alone, without prospects, he was, by far, the happiest man Jax had ever met. Smiling, laughing, good natured in any situation. It wasn’t natural. In Jax’s experience, anyone who was happy for no reason, wasn’t running on full sail. But, except for a couple old salts, the crew seemed to like him, even Black Tom, who didn’t like anyone. That rogue had knifed a man just for farting near him, yet, the newcomer had actually made him smile. The captain didn’t even know he could smile. Then, there was the colorful string of flags he kept hanging up and the way he’d sit cross legged on the deck with his eyes half closed and a dreamy smile on his face. Even when they’d had to ride out that bad blow last week with reefed sales, he’d sat in his funny way, tied himself to the mast and grinned into the deluge. He wondered what trouble the simple bastard would get himself in ashore now that he’d left them. He shrugged and went back to work. Non of his business, anyway.
DM James: Back in Town Map d20+10=29 ; d100=70 ; d6=4 ; Monday August 22nd, 2022 10:25:42 AM Teddy naps with Gore Thum at the Inn.
Benni went to the WLA stall in the Tradehouse. He thinks the idea of the silent language is a good one and then he sets about storytelling in town.
Kristoph offers to teach the group hand language.
Snark is also in favor of learning the sign language as he starts work on the carriage.
Dao disembarked from the ship and wandered into the town.
DM James: reviewing Kristoph's sheet and see no mention of the language. Is this something added with the level up?
The fog is just beginning to clear when Benni heads to the Tradehouse. The place is much like it has been. In spite of the events in the community people still have to buy produce and other goods to survive, so the place is quite crowded when Benni arrives. He enters through the back entrance where Filael's Fishing stall is and then down the short hallway to Akoka's area.
As expected the place is a wreck and Akoka is lamenting about yet another replacement administrator being prevented from arriving. This time the admin was coming from the northern continent and got involved in some issues regarding Deep water or some kind of creature. When it was all done the administrator lost her mind and had to be killed. A message recently arrived from the ships captain apologizing for the "accident" but the administrator was out of control.
Afterwards Benni exited into the cool late morning air to see that the sun was shining brightly overhead and Blackfeather and some locals had gathered around the fish pond to gossip. Blackfeather was an old blind man with a cane. He'd come to the pond on good days, otherwise he'd be in the Dockgate tavern betting on the fights. After a bit of listening about the latest fight between Kristoph and the Vine People, Benni started up his story. When he was done a few silver had been dropped in his bag (4) and the locals departed with smiles on their faces.
"That old wizard is a strange one." "He's friendly though, no one had heard from him lately. Must be busy." "Captain Rio is preparing for a trip to Hook City and looking for a special crew for the journey. Talk to Jax if you are interested. I think it's planned for next month." "Ole Jack Lolly, did a number on the town. Lord Eilling from up north bought the Back Ghost and is planning to take it inland to explore the Grey Tooth Mountains. " "The Black Ghost was renamed the Bold Explorer and it was being painted Blue and Red." "There's a new man in town. Strange fella, most doesn't think he wears shoes, or has feet since his robes are so long." - Seems to be a joke going about about people in robes as they made the same comments about the old wizard too.
Issac went to talk to the old priest about the Abbey and what happened with his spell. The answer he got was that years ago there was a group called the Children of Chaos and they rang what has come to be known as the Chaos bell. It was inside the Abbey and though the ringing of the bell brought about change for good, it also brought with it a change that made life different for people in the Gateway Downs. "Gifted" like Elle in the Tradehouse or Gendry the Weather All are said to be the result of the strange magic in the region. So too are ghosts, haunts, and strange fey like abberations and powers. The Fey Festival is one way the locals try to appease the Fey by celebrating Queen Maab each year.
The old liontaur priest admitted he had only recently arrived in Heranmar, maybe about 10 years ago, and that is what he'd learned about the Abbey. No one had really bothered to go inside the Abbey but Akoka and her group a few years ago. Most of her group wandered off, only Akoka remained.
Work on the wagon proceeded well once Snark procured a spot in the stable to work on it out of the weather. It seemed that the little gnome knew about woodwork and he was able to quickly direct a workcrew to do what was needed to restore the old wagon. Also though the plan was to remove the casket area and replace it with seats, the local caretaker wanted that as he'd need it for the funerals he arranged. It seemed he had a booming business of late and the trip to the graveyard wasn't a short distance.
The docks were strange to Dao. He was familiar with most of them from his travels, but there was something different about these. Tokens, favors, and other items were hanging from the lintels above the doors here, food was set out on the bow of each small boat, and even his own vessel had a plate of fresh cut ham and a tankard of ale sitting on the bow.
"Yep, gotta appease that Dock Devil or he'll untie yer boat." said the old sailor as he stepped away from the food.
"Might do ya some good to find sumptin' green to wear." the old guy said as Dao disembarked. "They got a place middle o' town. Call it the tradehouse. Big thing, can't miss it."
Dao (Art P) HP 24/24, AC 19/15, CMB 8, CMD 22 Monday August 22nd, 2022 10:52:42 AM
Dao presses his hands over his heart and bows to the oldster. He chants repetitively under his breath as he heads towards the Tradehouse at the middle of town.
“Benni” AC 18/11/17 CMD12 HP 13/ 20 Onesimos (SteveK) Monday August 22nd, 2022 12:25:18 PM
Onesimos listens with a half-smile at the stories: it’s going to take a while to change attitudes, but then, smiles the elf, he has several generations to work with. As he works with today’s children, he imagines working with their great-grandchildren too. The silver he sprinkles around, a coin here, one there, for the children to find and be glad.
Idly, he stands at the door of the Tradehouse, watching traffic during a break from paperwork. He spies the simple robe of the approaching half-elf, and thinks of the idle gossip. Impulsively, he raises a hand, and a peaceful tenor chimes, ”From the path of Flower’s Seven Loves, Onesimos Elpis greets you in our temporary time on the Wold.”
His pale and narrow face is framed by long brown hair untidily bound with a fragile-appearing diadem. The elf is in simple clothes with elaborate embroidery and counter-stitching in a wild flower motif, but most is covered by his armor and a sleeveless calf-length coat. Summer sky eyes watch without weighing, and a woven ivy and willow design in High Woldian is on a woven band around his neck.
Dao (Art P) HP 24/24, AC 19/15, CMB 8, CMD 22 Monday August 22nd, 2022 12:39:26 PM
A smile lights up the half-elf’s tanned face and his eyes are luminous with joy, as if he were welcoming back a missing brother, lost for many years and presumed dead. “I am called Dao. The light in me recognizes the light in you, Onesimos. I’m glad our karmas have brought us together. I hope to help here in whatever small way I am able. Might you provide some direction to my virtue?”
Kristoph: (Stephen C) | AC:18 | CMD:25 | HP: 40/40 - Blusinda: AC:16 | HP:21/21 d20+4=24 ; Monday August 22nd, 2022 7:11:30 PM
Kristoph heads to the Blacksmith and puts in some hard work. After the shift he invites Blu into the fire and he works on a "Luck-Makers" symbol. It must be fate or indeed "luck" for everything goes perfectly for him. (Blacksmith:24 nat "20" crafts "L.M." with carvings). Later on he adds it to the carriage.
His jaw drops when he hears a story about "Kristoph and the Vine People" and a grim expression crosses his features and he withdraws for a while. Killing is not somethig he enjoys doing at any time.
(OOC - DM James. The secret language was made up on the spot as it did not have any game impact I threw it in for fun. As there is an interest I have taken a point at level 5 and maybe those who want to learn it could to?)
When his path crosses Dao Kristoph looke like a stocky, gruff human in his mid 20's, with a beak of a nose. Half his face has been burned and he wears an eye patch. He moves gracefully with practical light clothing. By his side is a what seems to be a cat made of blue fire.
"Oh hey, hello. Straight off of a boat? Welcome to Herenmar. I'm Kristoph and this is Blusinda"! He gestures to the walking flame which sort of nods it's head before jumping up into the inns fireplace and turning the inns flame blue.
Isaac Harker (Justin M) HP 40/40 AC22/ T13 / FF 21 d20=7 ; d20+9=10 ; d4=1 ; Monday August 22nd, 2022 11:01:04 PM
Isaac had heard of the Chaos bell and the effect it had on the world The Great Migration and other effects. Still he wonders if his Paladin abilities are even natural while he has worshiped the gods he often thought paladins were always in contact with them or at least got some sort of sign the gods listened to them. So far he had received no direct acknowledgement from the gods. He brings these feeling up with the old liontaur priest. "I've heard about the Chaos Bell & The Grand Migration but the awakening of fey and spirits from it that's news to me. Maybe if it gave People like Elly and Gendry powers some how maybe it also affected me. Maybe my power's and abilities don't come from the Gods or at least wasn't awakened by them. I've always worshiped the gods but I thought paladins and Clerics had bit more interaction with the gods some sort of acknowledgment or presence you felt. I still don't really feel like anything is listening when I give my prayers. I haven't noticed anything overt anyway." As he hears about Akoka he decides that she might be some one to talk to. He needed to prepare if they were going to travel into the fey lands connected to the Abby. He asks around to see if he can locate Akoka. Gather information: Diplomacy:10 over 1 hour.
Snark Riverstone (MarkB) AC13 T13 F10, CMD 12, HP 29/29 Tuesday August 23rd, 2022 12:25:48 AM
Snark is happy to check in with the Caretaker to see that any repairs to the carriage/hearse are done to his liking. Heh heh, Caretaker is a clever title for an undertaker. No doubt there some goofy superstition about the word "undertaker" around here. In any event, Snark will arrange for sale of the carriage to this Caretaker.
Snark makes a run to the Catacombs, which takes him to the tradehouse where he meets with this new person that Benni is talking to. Then Benni launches into his Flowers and Love talk, but to make matters worse this new guy responds about Light and Karma! Ugh. This is not starting out well - Snark hopes he can redirect things before it all devolves into unicorns and rainbows.
"Hey there Dow - did I say that right? I'm Snark Riverstone. I guess yer new in town like we still kinda are. We got some work at a nearby haunted fey abbey - we might could use some help in a few days."
Then in a low, conspirital voice he says, "Watch your step here in town. Folks here are jumpy and weird - superstitious about everything. We been calling ourselves the Luck Makers here to show 'em you gotta make yer own luck - it don't come from no charms or trinkets. Glad you met Benni and Kristoph, they're top notch. We'll introduce you to the rest of the crew."
Snark is a little gnome, with tan skin and pale blue hair. Though he is 70 years old, he's still rather young for a gnome. He typically dresses is forest colors, usually greens and browns.
(For the DM - I see what you did there with the Deep crossover reference. Nice.)
Gore'Thum and Teddy Treeborn (Mitch) HP 32/32 AC 12/11/12 CMD 11 Gore'Thum HP 30/30 AC 12/12/11 Tuesday August 23rd, 2022 7:22:38 AM
Gore'Thum and Teddy wake up from their nap and have a leisurely lunch. They do not coincidentally run into the new PC just yet as they have no business at the tradehouse.
Dao (Art P) HP 24/24, AC 19/15, CMB 8, CMD 22 Tuesday August 23rd, 2022 8:05:37 AM
Dao’s smile for Snark, Kristoph and Blusinda is as warm and sincere as it was for Onesimos. “There you are!” He says delightedly, as if he had been waiting for them to show up. He goes down on one knee to greet Blusinda. “And look at you! Aren’t you beautiful! And so pure!” In regards to Snark’s comment about superstitious townspeople, he laughs. “Samsara, yes? Delusions and illusions and round and round we go. They think that they have no power and they make offerings to the fey to feel like they have a sense of control.” He shakes his head, still chuckling. “Gets me every time!” When Snark asks him for help. “Of course. It’s why I came. I’m looking forward to meeting the other members of your group. Lead on.”
Isaac Harker (Justin M) HP 40/40 AC22/ T13 / FF 21 Tuesday August 23rd, 2022 4:36:09 PM
If Isaac doesn't find anything he goes back to the Inn.
Snark Riverstone (MarkB) AC13 T13 F10, CMD 12, HP 29/29 Tuesday August 23rd, 2022 5:58:42 PM
Snark's ears perk up at the mention of Captain Rio planning a trip to Hook City.
He tells his friends, "I've looked into becoming a Greenmage, and I'm told I need to seek out someone in Hook City that can help me with this. So I plan to go there in about a month, and anyone is welcome to come along."
Snark will seek out this Jax to ask about the trip to Hook City.
Then he plans to use a Mount spell to make his way out to the light house to see the wizard Olostim.
Dao (Art P) HP 24/24, AC 19/15, CMB 8, CMD 22 Tuesday August 23rd, 2022 6:25:08 PM
“Let me check my schedule,” Dao says with a wink. “Looks like, if I’m still alive then, I’ll be available.”
DM James: Back in Town Map Tuesday August 23rd, 2022 10:32:54 PM Benni greeted Dao Dao offered to help in some way Kristoph successfully created the symbols for the luck makers. He too greets Dao Issac questions whether his powers come from the gods or some mutative gift like the others here in the south. He looks for Akoka Snark greeted Dao then later conjured a horse and left to visit the wizard.
Benni, Dao, and Issac eventually meet in the Tradehouse with Akoka while Snark takes his leave. Before Issac left the priest he was given some words to think on.
”Issac, there is an aura about you. Maybe it is as you say and it’s just a force of your will that creates it. Pray tonight and see if those prayers are answered. You might be surprised.”
Issac Highlight to display spoiler: {When Issac prays that evening he’s granted a spell. Also have you decided what his divine bond is going to be?”}
Elsewhere in the town people were coming in from the pastures, boats were arriving back at the docks, and there was a general feeling of relief that another day had passed and they’d survived.
“Benni” AC 18/11/17 CMD12 HP 13/ 20 Onesimos (SteveK) Wednesday August 24th, 2022 1:11:56 AM
Onesimos cordially brings Dao around to meet the others, either at the Trademarket where the elf-kin met, or the Blue Cat Tavern where the Luck Makers often hang out and some (including Onesimos) rent rooms.
The thin elf tucks a lock of wavy hair away and winks at Snark before giving explanation to Dao. ”I have grown used to his blunt energy. Most call me by my Common nick-name, Benni And most don’t really understand what they mean when they use the word ‘love’.”
Benni thinks a trip to Hook City would be interesting. He has never seen its fabled wonders, and it will give the Luck Makers the chance to ensure Captain Jack Lolly is well and truly dead. It is the same ship, after all…
Gore'Thum and Teddy Treeborn (Mitch) HP 32/32 AC 12/11/12 CMD 11 Gore'Thum HP 30/30 AC 12/12/11 Wednesday August 24th, 2022 8:15:25 AM
When Dao is brought into the tavern to meet the rest of the group he is greeted by an unusual sight. A giant bullfrog, nearly 4 feet in height, sits next to a table before a large plate of food. It's dark brown pebbled skin and white underbelly are similar to any other bullfrog's but it's sitting there eating a meal like any other patron. The locals seem used to the odd sight for it only draws minor attention.
Setting next to the frog in a booster seat is a tiny bear looking creature. With soft brown fur and little black eyes it could almost be mistaken for a child's stuffed pet if not for the fact that it's also eating a leisurely meal and going over a book with the giant frog.
When introduced to the newcomer the frog grunts. "I am Gore'Thum, servant of the master. This is Teddy, who I train to channel the master's power and will. We are pleased to meet you." Teddy gives a shy wave but doesn't say anything.
Dao (Art P) HP 24/24, AC 19/15, CMB 8, CMD 22 Wednesday August 24th, 2022 8:28:57 AM
Dao seems delighted and not at all surprised to be addressed by a giant talking frog accompanied by a sentient literary teddy bear “And what master is that? People give themselves so many masters these days.”
DM James: Back in Town Map d100=63 ; Wednesday August 24th, 2022 9:43:57 AM
Snark Highlight to display spoiler: {When Snark arrives at the Wizards home it takes several minutes to get him to appear at the door. He seems distracted and in a hurry to get back to his work. He agrees to share a spell with Snark on the condition Snark do him a favor at some point in the future. Based on the wizards behavior Snark surmises that favor might come sooner than the wizard would like. Snark is left at the door with a scroll to take back to town to transcribe.}
In the Blue Cat tavern the fire roars a comfortable blue color as Kristophs elemental companion consumes the wood placed there by the servers. Those that enter the establishment each wear something green. A hat band, feather, or overcoat seem to be the most popular, but some have other clothing items made green by some kind of dye. The ladies that are in the room seem to favor scarves or shoes and for those that can afford it, jewelry.
Outside the evening fog rolls in off the bay making it difficult to see more than a few feet along the towns streets. The only thing to guide one are the magical lampposts placed every ten feet or so along each side of the street. Unlike in days past however people are still moving along them even though they seem to be a bit more cautious than normal.
Conversations drift about the room as random words reach the ears of the luck makers.
"Seen the crone today." "Yeah, what was the old bat doing?" "Talking to Filael." "Wonder if Maab was talkin' to her again." "You seen young Tellin or Missy?" "No. They was heading to the lighthouse yesterday. Prolly home in bed by now." "You know the hanging tree is going to be a problem soon." "Yeah, we'll have to make sure the new watch posts some guards around it to keep people away." "Away? They need to keep 'em from seeing it." "Maybe old man Ven will see it." "That's not sporting." "Waldo was in town last night. Made old lady Phyllis stump her toe on a cobble. Thinks she broke it." "Funny story...Old Man Ven said the Dock Devil was a git. Found his boat filled with water this morning." "Yeah. You don't trash talk the Dock Devil." "That Black Ghost, renaming it Bold Explorer. Some la de da is taking it up river to the mountains. Says there's treasure there. Lookin' for Cortez's lost hoard. No ones told him yet Cortez is a dragon. I'd leave that treasure to the scaly beast, if'n it were me."
And the talk continued as the servers brought out the food. Today it was mostly fried fish with some shrimps tossed on the side and some creamy clam chowder in a bowl.
So as the fog closed in and the temperature outside dropped someone started singing. That someone turned out to be Captain Rio.
Dao (Art P) HP 24/24, AC 19/15, CMB 8, CMD 22 Wednesday August 24th, 2022 11:07:57 AM
Dao sits down with the others. “Do you have any fresh fruits, vegetables and nuts? And perhaps some fruit juice or water to drink?” He asks the waitress politely. If so, he will pay for the food with a 10 gp tiger eye and eat his food slowly and silently, savoring each bite. He hears the talk around him, but his focus is on his meal. Later, he shows an interest in accompanying the group to Hook City, if that’s where they’re headed. He was also happy to help work on the cart. He seems up for whatever the next move will be.
Kristoph: (Stephen C) | AC:18 | CMD:25 | HP: 40/40 - Blusinda: AC:16 | HP:21/21 Wednesday August 24th, 2022 5:20:00 PM "You're more than welcome to join us Dao! We are considering our next action but it may be to explore a nearby abbey. It somehow seems to be half in and out of the the realm".
Dao (Art P) HP 24/24, AC 19/15, CMB 8, CMD 22 Wednesday August 24th, 2022 6:13:19 PM
“That sounds abbey normal,” Dao responds with a grin. “I’m in.”
“Benni” AC 18/11/17 CMD12 HP 13/ 20 Onesimos (SteveK) d20+6=10 ; Thursday August 25th, 2022 12:40:36 AM
Onesimos grimaces as expected at the pun as his eye give a frank assessment of Dao. The elf takes a drink of a light ale from his stein, thinking, then speaking. ”You seem a good companion, getting along well with everyone, but we tend to get into dangerous situations, and carry no armor, weapons, or spell pouches. Just so we all are coming into our Luck Maker community with our eyes open, do you have the ‘open hand’ skills like Kristoph?” (Ooc: Kristoph is a monk/cleric)
Snark Riverstone (MarkB) AC13 T13 F10, CMD 12, HP 29/29 Thursday August 25th, 2022 1:19:54 AM
The little gnome agrees to help Olostim, and when he opens the scroll he is pleased to find it contains a Slow spell.
Upon his return, he sits at the table with the others, though sitting his eyes are barely above the level of the table. So he stands on his chair. He asks for some of the clam chowder and an ale.
Snark gives this Dao the side-eye when he asks for fruits, veggies and nuts. "Fruits and nuts and stuff. You one of them vegementarians? How come?" At Dao's mention of Teddy's Master, his ears perk up. "Yeah, who is your master Teddy. Besides the frog I mean."
When Captain Rio comes in, Snark will approach her. "Hey cap'n, I hear you're headed to Hook City in about a month. I'd like passage if I may. I can pay, but I'll be happy to pitch in with stuff if I can be of help as well."
Gore'Thum and Teddy Treeborn (Mitch) HP 32/32 AC 12/11/12 CMD 11 Gore'Thum HP 30/30 AC 12/12/11 Thursday August 25th, 2022 7:48:44 AM
Gore'Thum seems surprised, as if the idea other people wouldn't know who the master is never occurred to him. "The Warper aspect of Sar, he who encourages change and offers mutation of body and mind to improve oneself." he says as if it should be obvious or known automatically.
Teddy does a double take. "Oh, that's who it is. I mean I guessed but I wasn't sure because... you.. just called him master...?" He trails off as Gore'Thum glares at him before hiding his face back in the book, pretending to read again. Gore'Thum sits there looking mildly confused and affronted.
Dao (Art P) HP 24/24, AC 19/15, CMB 8, CMD 22 Thursday August 25th, 2022 8:47:01 AM
“Ah, yes. The warper aspect of Sar. That would certainly have been my first guess,” Dao says. After he has finished eating, Dao is turns to Benni. “You have eyes that see. If you fight, you have already lost. That being said, I have found that sometimes it is necessary. I have been trained to use my body, mind and spirit to protect all sentient beings - not only from others, but also from themselves. I feel my skills may be of benefit to you.” And to Snark: “I am not a vegementarian or any other kind of mentarian. At least, I don’t think I am. Eating fruits, nuts and vegetables doesn’t kill the plant, while eating animals does kill the animal. I prefer not to kill, but will if it will keep me from starvation, I will. My monastery was high up in the Bearfang Mountains. Few crops would grow so high. We raised yaks for cheese milk and meat. We loved and cared for them as pets. When they died, we ate them. Without them, we would have starved. I will no doubt eat meat again, should that be my karma, but I do not seek it out.” If the group asks to book passage with Captain Rio (that name is so familiar hehe) Dao will follow suit.
DM James: No Beer? What!? Map Thursday August 25th, 2022 11:17:24 AM Dao asked for the vegetarian version of food. He went on to explain he just didn't like food that came at the cost of the plant or animal it came from.
Benni invited the stranger to join them.
Snark agreed to the terms of the wizard and returned to the town. He asked about Teddy's master and then asked Captain Rio about her upcoming journey.
Teddy was enlightened to know he'd following the Warper Sar all this time. Gore Thum seemed annoyed Teddy didn't know.
Snarks question to Captain Rio brought a smile to her face. "Aye. The jaunt to hook city is fer Mojo. Gotta deliver some o' Helen's tings ter her family. Schedule isn't set though, but if you an yers plan to come I'll delay until yer ready. Having me sum extra luck aboard'll please der crew an if'n it gits out Imma leavin' witout yer I'll have a mutiny on me hands. Jes let me know when yer ready."
DM James: I'll start writing this up as the module after next.
To Dao Ralphus replied. "The missus might have some o' that." Ralphus said to Dao of the fruits and nuts. A few moments later he returned with a plate of currants, hazel nuts, raspberries, blueberries, and a glass of cranberry juice. Fresh homemade whipped cream topped the assembly of nuts and fruits. Amid all that was a small bit of sliced apple. "We don't always have apples, but a shipment came in last week."
"Hey Dow!" called one of the patrons that overhead. "A lettuce dies when you pick it. You eat lettuce?" another piped up as the joke continued. "What about crops that have to be replanted each year? They'll die anyway. Yeah" another interjected. "Rice has to be killed to make food, same for wheat. You eat bread?
"What about beer?" the last asked in a super quiet voice as the room stopped to listen to Dao's answer. Only the pops of the wood in the fireplace could be heard as everyone waited to hear the answer. Some were already preparing themselves with white knuckled grips on their mugs while Captain Rio raised an eyebrow and looked at the possibly misguided man.
Dao (Art P) HP 24/24, AC 19/15, CMB 8, CMD 22 Thursday August 25th, 2022 11:41:05 AM
Dao rises to his full height (6’ 2”) and looks around the room slowly, catching everyone’s eyes in his penetrating gaze. His smile is gone. He let’s a few moments crawl by then grabs the nearest beer, takes a gulp, swallows and lets loose with a tremendous belch before knuckling the froth off his chin and sitting down to enjoy his dinner.
Kristoph: (Stephen C) | AC:18 | CMD:25 | HP: 40/40 - Blusinda: AC:16 | HP:21/21 Thursday August 25th, 2022 11:52:23 AM
Kristoph raises his tankard to Dao's comment about not taking life, then raises an eyebrow at the belch. Maybe supressing a grin.
Isaac Harker (Justin M) HP 40/40 AC22/ T13 / FF 21 d20+12=25 ; Thursday August 25th, 2022 5:17:23 PM
Isaac that night prayed to the gods like he had many times and felt the power of the spell he asked for empower him. It seems the god's we're listening but still refused to reveal much more than that.
In the morning he was enjoying the fine shrimp, fried fish and chowder meal. It was delicious. He was beginning to enjoy the town and all the weirdness. Especially the weirdness of good fried fish. The new comer Dao was an interesting sight to Isaac he was a half elf like him and from the sound of it kept a pretty interesting code of Honor and ethics
He was surprised that Teddy didn't know anything about the Entity that he served he tried to remember anything about Sar the God.
OoC:Isaac's Divine bond will be the Celestial spirit. The weapon one. The character sheet will be completed sometime Friday or Saturday and be submitted for review.
Know religion:25
Snark Riverstone (MarkB) AC13 T13 F10, CMD 12, HP 29/29 Friday August 26th, 2022 2:41:17 AM "Oof, if you don't like killing stuff, Dao, you're gonna hate hanging with us."
Then he realized he's in a crowded tavern. "Er, not that we kill everything. Not people I mean. Well, maybe some pirates, but we're careful. And there were those pepple in that warehouse. See, we just kill stuff that's trying to kill us, which has been a lot of things lately. But some of it was already dead, I mean undead. So, can you really kill something that's already dead? Not that there's a lot of undead around town. At least not still around town. But no one needs to worry. About us. Or undead. Or nuthin."
It was not until this point that the gnome remembered that the first rule when you find yourself in a hole is to stop digging. So he shuts up.
Gore'Thum and Teddy Treeborn (Mitch) HP 32/32 AC 12/11/12 CMD 11 Gore'Thum HP 30/30 AC 12/12/11 Friday August 26th, 2022 7:34:09 AM
At the sudden tenseness of the room Teddy quietly moves to hide under the table, taking his book with him. Gore'Thum either doesn't catch the hint or ignores it, continuing to grumpily eat his meal.
DM James: No Beer? What!? Map Friday August 26th, 2022 2:56:44 PM Dao grabbed a nearby beer, stood, and tipped it back
Kristoph drank as well.
Issac ate his meal and enjoyed the change in repast.
Benni asked Dao if he were like Kristoph
Snark went on about killing things then spent three times as long backtracking on his statement.
Teddy hid under the table.
When Dao stood the tension in the room was like Teddy had sensed. Dao's look about the room brought about some challenging stares in the return, others averted their gaze, but when he tipped back the beverage the response it elicited was distinct and clear.
"Yeah, that's right!" one of the patrons called out. "To yer good health and luck be with ye!" the room burst out in a chorus of well wishing. Within moments the patrons had returned to whatever they were doin doing before and all was forgotten.
The balance of the evening was pleasant as the patrons started to slowly depart as they made their way home. In the end only a few people remained to stay the night in the commons or in a room upstairs.
The following morning it was once again cold and foggy as the sun started to peek over the walls to the east....
Jon S (James's other half ... he's the pretty one) Map Friday August 26th, 2022 3:31:26 PM
OOC: I am working on the next module ... once I finish my homework, I'm gonna look over the notes/info I need to update or add, then have the powers that be look it over
Dao (Art P) HP 24/24, AC 19/15, CMB 8, CMD 22 Friday August 26th, 2022 3:41:21 PM
Presumably, Dao stayed in the same inn as the others. Please let me know where and how much to subtract from his gp total. He’s fine with a common room.) Dao awakens an hour before dawn. He stretches/does yoga for an hour, meditates facing the lightening sky for another hour, then enjoys some green tea from leaves in his haversack. If there is time before everyone else is up and ready, he’ll do his pushups, sit-ups and calisthenics. If not, he’ll do them later. He greets the members of the group with a bow and a smile and patiently waits for them to decide on the first of the day’s events.
“Benni” AC 18/11/17 CMD12 HP 13/ 20 Onesimos (SteveK) Friday August 26th, 2022 5:06:25 PM
Onesimos listens to their new friend without judgement: listening and trying to understand what he is saying. ”Not agreeing with you, but it is a better outlook on life than someone who pulls a sword over spilled milk.”. He also assesses Teddy and the frog anew. No, Gore’Thum, he admonished himself. The frog has proven he deserves to be addressed as a person. The elf shakes his head in disbelief of himself.
In the morning, Benni rises early as usual (Ooc: we haven’t been tracking room cost) and thanks Flower for another opportunity. He breaks his fast with the others while waiting for Isaac to come in from his flat with his lady.
”So, I am ready to sail for Hook City as soon as Captain Rio is ready!”. The cleric makes himself useful in the days leading up to the sailing by storytelling, helping in the Sanctuary, helping Akoka, and familiarizing himself with Captain Rio and her crew.
Isaac Harker (Justin M) HP 40/40 AC22/ T13 / FF 21 Friday August 26th, 2022 11:00:49 PM
Isaac greets Dao with a warm smile and shakes his hand " I'm Isaac I saw you meet the other's yesterday sorry for not introducing myself. I usually help out with the guard and any other problems that arise."
Isaac overhears Benni talk about going back to hook city "What do mean? You gonna move on to Hook City or you coming back?"
Dao (Art P) HP 24/24, AC 19/15, CMB 8, CMD 22 Friday August 26th, 2022 11:55:01 PM
“No need to be sorry, Isaac. It’s my great pleasure to meet you and I thank you for inviting me into your adventuring family. The light in me recognizes the light in you. I’m here to help in any capacity.”
DM James: Fishermen Map Sunday August 28th, 2022 7:56:11 PM "Come about, Wee man." Captain Rio said to Benni. Tis a journey I donna take ter often. Master Mojo hadinnt even got der cargo ready. I'll let yer know when we're shipping oot. Yer should be worryin' about der pirates, sea monsters, an wild seagulls."
The next morning when they were setting about to repair the carriage and were cleaning it out they found a torn piece of red clothing with a WLA badge on it.
Elsewhere in town the guard were out in full force. Apparently there was a fisherman missing. He went out the day before and didn't return. The guard was being sent out along the coast to the east to see if he made for land in the fog the previous evening. Boats were going to be sent out later once the fog cleared.
In the meanwhile citizens were being enlisted to search with the guard.
Gore'Thum and Teddy Treeborn (Mitch) HP 32/32 AC 12/11/12 CMD 11 Gore'Thum HP 30/30 AC 12/12/11 Sunday August 28th, 2022 9:06:20 PM
Gore'Thum volunteers himself and Teddy to help the search. Teddy doesn't mind because finding a missing fisherman isn't likely to include fighting zombies or anything. Maybe it it takes long enough he can avoid having to go back to the Abby.
“Benni” AC 18/11/17 CMD12 HP 13/ 20 Onesimos (SteveK) Monday August 29th, 2022 12:30:32 AM
In the morning, Benni continues his usual town activities: helping Akoka in the WLA booth, telling stories on the steps of the Sanctuary of the Sea (and conversing with the two other priests), and working with Captain Rio’s ship and crew to get used to it (and them used to him).
Snark Riverstone (MarkB) AC13 T13 F10, CMD 12, HP 29/29 Monday August 29th, 2022 2:05:31 AM
(FYI - still waiting for a response from the catacombs. None of our loot has been sold yet so there's no cash or items to distribute yet.)
Dao (Art P) HP 24/24, AC 19/15, CMB 8, CMD 22 Monday August 29th, 2022 8:04:36 AM
“Do you mind if I join you?” Dao asks Gore’Thum and Teddy. If they don’t, Dao will help them search. He lets his intuition lead him (Perception 12).
DM James: Fisherman! Map Monday August 29th, 2022 9:10:58 AM
The WLA, or Woldian League of Adventurers, was an old organization of civic minded people that worked for the common good. Many of them came to be great heroes of the Wold, others simply did their part to keep the peace. The tradehouse had a WLA stall where one could inquire about membership. Dao also noticed several members of the group wore similar badges.
As for the search for the fisherman, those that volunteered went east to search. The rocky shores to the west wouldn't be searchable and if a fisherman was in trouble he'd seek out the lighthouse anyway. Since there were no reports from the lighthouse that meant he'd have landed to the east.
It was still too foggy this morning for any boats or ships to leave port, so those that searched were on foot. They'd go a ways along the coast road and then turn towards the water's edge. Searchers ranged for miles along the coastline with no sign of the missing fisherman until mid morning when the fog started to lift.
Teddy and the Luck Makers saw on the waters of the bay the fisherman's small craft. It was floating just a few hundred feet off the coast where the waters edge was sandy. A normal man probably wouldn't be over his head for at least a hundred feet, so getting to the craft would only require a small bit of swimming, but the waters of the bay were treacherous.
Swim DC 15 on fail Highlight to display spoiler: {The current is weak at present, but you can feel the tide changing and you have to turn back or be pulled under.}
Perception DC 25 Highlight to display spoiler: {The small boat appears to be empty.}
Back in town Snark hadn't emerged from the Catacombs and Benni found himself at the Sanctuary of the Sea telling tales and talking to the two priests. Later he arrived at the docks to help out with Captain Rio's ship, the Sea Witch.
"How much luuk yer got in yer fingers?" "Jesse says whut yer touch terns ter gold. Dat true?" "Not many truust the Abbey, but it's a might grand storm sign if'n yer know were ter look." "Better'n a weatherall by Gargul's slimy tentacles." "Dat flower yer got, gonna give it ter de capt'n?" "She'll keal you." "Won't neither, he might be uncomfortable for a few days." "10 silver she sends him ter to the bottom." "5 silver, she cuts 'em." "I'll take sum o dat action!" "Whut's 'e gonna do?"
DM James: On loot distribution, remember that Dao shouldn't be included since he came in with his full WBL.
Dao (Art P) HP 24/24, AC 19/15, CMB 8, CMD 22 Monday August 29th, 2022 9:21:26 AM
OOC: Noob questions. How do you highlight to see the spoilers? Dao would like to swim out and look in the boat. What do I need to do to make a skill check?
Dao (Art P) HP 24/24, AC 19/15, CMB 8, CMD 22 d20=4 ; d20=11 ; Monday August 29th, 2022 9:58:11 AM
Dao takes off his robes and, dressed only in a loin cloth, tries to swim out to the boat. He gets 2/3rds of the way there and turns back. “Tide’s changed and the current is too strong,” he says. “I couldn’t tell if anyone is in the boat or not.” He’ll look around for another boat or something large and buoyant he can cling to to try and hick his way back out to the boat. Swim +8. Rolled a 4. DC 15 Failed Perception +12. Rolled an 11. DC 25. Failed.
“Benni” AC 18/11/17 CMD12 HP 13/ 20 Onesimos (SteveK) Monday August 29th, 2022 1:03:07 PM
Ooc: sorry about jumbled posts. The page didnt refresh on last DM post before I posted for Benni. Alas.
Onesimos responds as wise as he is able to the crewmen. ”This ‘flower’, my friends, is my remembrance of the goddess I serve, and contains no luck but the confidence and skill we ourselves bring. And we bring it to help our ship and crew mates, A common cause is also a form of Love.”. He continues to ask questions, tells stories, and intersperse wisdom as he feels would bring the best reception.
Seeds aren’t planted and reaped the same day, after all…
Kristoph: (Stephen C) | AC:18 | CMD:25 | HP: 40/40 - Blusinda: AC:16 | HP:21/21 d20+5=12 ; d20+9=24 ; Monday August 29th, 2022 9:07:27 PM
Blucinda watches as Kristoph wade into the water, he's doing ok till he isn't - and he he disappears underwater.
(Swim:12 and perception:24 both fail)
Kristoph: (Stephen C) | AC:18 | CMD:25 | HP: 40/40 - Blusinda: AC:16 | HP:21/21 Monday August 29th, 2022 9:22:03 PM
Seconds later Kristoph resurfaces and is swimming back. He coughs and splutters a bit after having swallowed water and retains his breath.
(OOC: Art drag the cursor over areas you want to highlight. To roll your skill check use the d20 roller above where you type. Add your swim skill (+8) to the D20 and press 'roll'. The DM's post stated you need 15 to swim, if you are below like Kristoph - you have to turn back).
Snark Riverstone (MarkB) AC13 T13 F10, CMD 12, HP 29/29 Tuesday August 30th, 2022 1:38:29 AM
Snark waits in the Catacombs for the sale to finish.
Gore'Thum and Teddy Treeborn (Mitch) HP 32/32 AC 12/11/12 CMD 11 Gore'Thum HP 30/30 AC 12/12/11 d20+8=11 ; Tuesday August 30th, 2022 8:00:42 AM
Gore'Thum swims out (swim speed, does he have to make a check? if so 11). Presumably he makes it to the boat since it isn't rough waters and checks to see if he can find out what happened to the fisherman.
DM James: Fisherman! Map d100=44 ; d100=34 ; d100=80 ; d100=60 ; d100=9 ; 6d4=18 ; d10=6 ; d10=10 ; d10=6 ; d10=6 ; d10=9 ; d10=6 ; d10=6 ; d10=9 ; d100=24 ; d100=72 ; d100=80 ; d100=47 ; d100=43 ; 6d4=16 ; d10=10 ; d3=1 ; d10=8 ; d10=2 ; d10=8 ; d10=6 ; d10=7 ; d10=3 ; d10=8 ; d10=9 ; d10=7 ; d10=4 ; d10=1 ; d10=8 ; d10=8 ; d10=3 ; d10=3 ; d10=3 ; d10=4 ; d10=3 ; Tuesday August 30th, 2022 8:33:29 AM
Of the heroes that tried to get to the boat, Gore Thum is the only one to make it. He crawls aboard and finds that the fisherman is gone. He's able to pull on the short rope and fill the sail so that he eventually gets into shallow water where the others can grab ahold of the small boat.
Soon the guard arrive and proclaim that the fisherman must have gone overboard. One calls out that there is some slimy residue on the gunwale but they discover it's just Gore Thum's way of shedding water as any other amphibian might.
The boat is small so the guard lift it from the water and carry it back to town. Once in town the guard take the boat to the harbormaster while the heroes are left to their own devices. Not surprisingly they end up at the Blue Cat Tavern. Even Snark has returned, but he mentions that any transactions between them should happen in private.
DMJames: We'll assume all went well in the catacombs and proceed from there. Once your catacombs business is complete you can split treasure.
The hot and tired heroes haven't been seated for more than a minute when a proud looking Ralphus arrives with a tray full of mugs. "Gents. This here is why Heranmar needs that spirit woad. Forget the green clothes, pansy wreaths, and the festival. This my boys is what drives Heranmar's economy.
Sitting in front of each of you is a frothy green beer in a blown glass mug. Ralphus even managed to chill it somehow as frost clings to the glass. He stands back with his hands on his hips and smiles ear to ear.
"Go ahead, drink up. This is your only free one. The rest goes to Hook City at the end of the month."
Do you drink? Highlight to display spoiler: {It's Woldian Woad Beer and for the next 24 hours you can add a +2 luck bonus to one d20 roll you have to make.}
Kristoph: (Stephen C) | AC:18 | CMD:25 | HP: 40/40 - Blusinda: AC:16 | HP:21/21 Tuesday August 30th, 2022 9:08:39 AM
Kristoph drinks some of the green beer...
Dao (Art P) HP 24/24, AC 19/15, CMB 8, CMD 22 d20+8=15 ; Tuesday August 30th, 2022 9:41:37 AM
Why does he want us to drink this green beer so badly? Dao wonders. Sense Motive 15 OOC: Don’t know if that’s successful or not.
DM James: Highlight to display spoiler: {Ralphus doesn't seem to be hiding anything. He's truly proud of the mugs he's set before you.}
“Benni” AC 18/11/17 CMD12 HP 13/ 20 Onesimos (SteveK) Tuesday August 30th, 2022 12:08:33 PM
Onesimos does his daily activity and congratulates Teddy, Dao, and Kristoph on a mostly-successful search.
When Ralphus comes by, Benni knows the man has only well-wishes for the group: why, he even renamed his tavern after Bluesinda!
With a toast, (to common causes and the well-being of all good things in the Wold!) he takes a sip, and then another more appreciative. It’s good!
Dao (Art P) HP 24/24, AC 19/15, CMB 8, CMD 22 Tuesday August 30th, 2022 12:42:57 PM
Dao isn’t a big drinker of alcohol, but he senses it would make Ralphus happy, so he takes a drink as well.
Isaac Harker (Justin M) HP 40/40 AC22/ T13 / FF 21 Tuesday August 30th, 2022 8:27:06 PM
Isaac looks at the emerald green beer with curiosity "I think I recognize this stuff one of the taverns had it as a top shelf called "The Green Fairy". I never tried it but I was always curious. Bottoms up" Isaac takes a drink of the strange green beer. "Tasty." he says after a hearty swig.
Snark Riverstone (MarkB) AC13 T13 F10, CMD 12, HP 29/29 Wednesday August 31st, 2022 2:30:50 AM
Snark drinks and enjoys the Woad Beer!
"Say, how many casks you shipping to Hook City, and how much would it be for us to buy a cask?"
Gore'Thum and Teddy Treeborn (Mitch) HP 32/32 AC 12/11/12 CMD 11 Gore'Thum HP 30/30 AC 12/12/11 Wednesday August 31st, 2022 9:54:26 AM
Teddy tells Benni Gore’Thum deserves all the credit as the only one who could reach the boat. They both accept the drink
Dao (Art P) HP 24/24, AC 19/15, CMB 8, CMD 22 Wednesday August 31st, 2022 10:21:46 AM
Dao nods. “Yes! Gore’Thum was the only one to make it to the boat. The current was too strong for Kristoph and I to make it. He’s an excellent swimmer!”
DM James: Gossip Map d20+5=22 ; Wednesday August 31st, 2022 12:21:45 PM "Gents, that beer sells for 400gp a pint in Hook City and a cask holds 10 pints, a keg holds 100. Shipping 100 kegs to Hook City on the Sea Witch as soon as she's ready. So to answer your question sir gnome, a cask is 4,000gp, a keg 40,000gp and that shipment will bring in 400,000 gp. It'll get split up. The Woad hunters, or in this case their families get a share for collecting it, Captain Rio gets a large bit for hauling it, the council members and the Mayor each get a bit for their salary, the Fey Festival Queen gets some as do her servants in the parade, and of course I'm the brewer so I get the rest which surprisingly my friends isn't as much as you'd think, but it covers my expenses for the year and lets us live comfortably. Everybody in town really sees the money in one form or another. Of course we hold back some for ourselves and we send some to the *Catacombs"
"Drink up my friends! This is part of your reward for saving the Woad!"
Others in the Tavern raise a mug to the heroes but only with normal beers.
Afterwards Gomefred arives and grabs a chair as she swings it around backwards to take a seat and leans on the back of it. "I hear you've been out to the Abbey. You found any of them adventurers, you know those that were with Akoka back in the day? I'm not a purveyor of rumors." she says. She's totally a purveyor of rumors.
"So, the story is Akoka and her 'crew' went into the Abbey...years ago it seems... and only she came out. Sure, there was some small amount of talk about the group deciding to leave the area instead of coming back to town, but Gwenlian told Sloe who mentioned it to John who said Waldo saw Akoka leaving the place by herself. You seen what happened to Waldo, poor ghost wandering the night and all. I'll have none of that, I'll stay in like proper people do at those hours. If he wants to rattle his chains and walk through town looking for his scarf that's HIS business. Me I'll be happy in me own bed getting the beauty sleep I require."
"Drink up, you'll need that luck if'n you're going back to the Abbey. Maybe you'll even find one of them adventurers...what were they called...... she said as she stood and turned back to the bar to see Ralphus glaring at her. "Right. I'll be upstairs."
Sense Motive DC 11 Highlight to display spoiler: {The other patrons don't seem to be bothered by the fact your beers were free or that they cost 400 gp each}
*Pending approval by the PTB.
“Benni” AC 18/11/17 CMD12 HP 13/ 20 Onesimos (SteveK) d20+13=29 ; Wednesday August 31st, 2022 1:58:59 PM
Onesimos is generally a good judge of character, and reading the room is not difficult. He raise his mug to the room and takes his time enjoying the taste of green beer.
He grimaces but has to agree with Teddy and Dao. So, still feeling a little silly, the elf looks at Teddy’s frog companion. ”Then congratulations belong to you, Gore’Thum, a very good job.”.
He is also very very interested in Akoka’s story, even if at second hand. And there comes to Onesimos another reason for the constantly disheveled nature of the WLA booth. He is quiet and let’s others take the lead on where the Luck Makers next go.
Dao (Art P) HP 24/24, AC 19/15, CMB 8, CMD 22 d20+8=26 ; Wednesday August 31st, 2022 2:38:59 PM
Dao drinks his beer very slowly and in silence, his eyes half closed and a dreamy smile on his face. There is an energy to the brew, a subtle vibration that seems to match and harmonize with his chi, strengthening its flow.
Dao (Art P) HP 24/24, AC 19/15, CMB 8, CMD 22 Wednesday August 31st, 2022 3:31:59 PM
Finally, Dao sets down his mug. “How did you save the woad?” He asks the others.
Isaac Harker (Justin M) HP 40/40 AC22/ T13 / FF 21 Wednesday August 31st, 2022 9:41:19 PM
Isaac takes sips of the beer savoring the taste. When Dao ask how they saved the woad he thinks a bit before awnsering. "Well it a bit of a tale. The woad gathers had gone off but only few returned. Something had attacked the group and claimed the woad hunting grounds for itself that's when the town called us up..." Isaac paused seeing if anyone else would like to help tell the story.
Snark Riverstone (MarkB) AC13 T13 F10, CMD 12, HP 29/29 d20+4=22 ; Thursday September 1st, 2022 2:31:10 AM
Snark looks around the room. An influx of 400,000 gp into this place, and spoken of in such casual terms. This is a much wealthier community than he thought. He also notices that no one blinks an eye at the Luck Makers drinkng 400 GP beers. He figures he has greatly misjudged these wealthy folk.
"Wow. Now I know why you wanted the woad that we brought back."
Kristoph: (Stephen C) | AC:18 | CMD:25 | HP: 40/40 - Blusinda: AC:16 | HP:21/21 d20+9=25 ; Thursday September 1st, 2022 6:39:04 AM
(Sense motive:25) Kristoph is slightly embarrassed when he hears the price of the beer but quickly notes the locals aren't phased by it. Not a great one for telling stories he does not continue with the telling.
Gore'Thum and Teddy Treeborn (Mitch) HP 32/32 AC 12/11/12 CMD 11 Gore'Thum HP 30/30 AC 12/12/11 Thursday September 1st, 2022 8:40:06 AM
Gore'Thum 'helps' tell the story. Mostly by making blunt statements whenever he feels Issaac forgot an important detail. Teddy, having spent so much time in the wilds, isn't really sure how much 400 gold is really, it sounds like a lot but he thought that about 400 copper once. He decides to finish his drink but not have a second, switching to water from there.
Gore'Thum and Teddy Treeborn (Mitch) HP 32/32 AC 12/11/12 CMD 11 Gore'Thum HP 30/30 AC 12/12/11 Thursday September 1st, 2022 8:40:06 AM
Gore'Thum 'helps' tell the story. Mostly by making blunt statements whenever he feels Issaac forgot an important detail. Teddy, having spent so much time in the wilds, isn't really sure how much 400 gold is really, it sounds like a lot but he thought that about 400 copper once. He decides to finish his drink but not have a second, switching to water from there.
“Benni” AC 18/11/17 CMD12 HP 13/ 20 Onesimos (SteveK) d20+8=15 ; Thursday September 1st, 2022 12:09:19 PM
Benni puts his storytellling to good use (Oratory: 15), and weaves an account that both describes what happened and reinforces how the heroes’ concern for others and each other combined with hard work was the key to success. -How they defended themselves against Waldo’s dog and sheep who went crazy eating raw Spirit Woad. -How and Enlarged Isaac waded to the boat in dangerous waters to attempt to rescue a woad hunter -How they met pirates who only thought of themselves and so were easy targets for the Luck Makers’ teamwork. -How they found the cemetery and that one of the woad hunters was selfish and careless: transformed into a Fey and killed most of the others. -How the Luck Makers relied on each other and the knowledge that Fey can’t abide Cold Iron so was able to defeat the poor wretch and rescue at least one woad hunter (along with a full haul of woad!)
“Benni” AC 18/11/17 CMD12 HP 13/ 20 Onesimos (SteveK) d20+8=15 ; Thursday September 1st, 2022 12:09:19 PM
Benni puts his storytellling to good use (Oratory: 15), and weaves an account that both describes what happened and reinforces how the heroes’ concern for others and each other combined with hard work was the key to success. -How they defended themselves against Waldo’s dog and sheep who went crazy eating raw Spirit Woad. -How and Enlarged Isaac waded to the boat in dangerous waters to attempt to rescue a woad hunter -How they met pirates who only thought of themselves and so were easy targets for the Luck Makers’ teamwork. -How they found the cemetery and that one of the woad hunters was selfish and careless: transformed into a Fey and killed most of the others. -How the Luck Makers relied on each other and the knowledge that Fey can’t abide Cold Iron so was able to defeat the poor wretch and rescue at least one woad hunter (along with a full haul of woad!)
DM James: Gossip Map Thursday September 1st, 2022 12:15:24 PM
One of the patrons leaned in and said. "Don't be getting too excited. 'ceptain for a few, it innit that much coin. I hear that Hook City has one crone aweful tariff on outside magic. They just don't like any magic brought in from other places. Onlyest reason they take the Woad Beer is that they can't make their own. Raphus has the secret. Still, nobody here has ter pay taxes and dats the benefit to us all. The council, guardsmen, deputies and sheriff, dock workers, and the dockmaster all get paid outta dat money. Repairs on the docks, walls, roads, and some buildings too. The Woad hunters get a right good share too and of course the Fey Festival Queen get hers. Yer didn't tink those ladies were doing it for the status did ya? Dem young single ladies can start up a household right nice with their earnings, and most times she and one of dem chair holders put theirs together and get hitched. Course as you know it don't always work out so well....ya know.. Big John with his Fey Queen instead of Waldo. She figured she'd have Johns share and hers, but couldn't stay away from Waldo. Guess now wit him ded it'll be easier." the man shrugged.
"No taxes!" the man called out as he raised his beer and was followed with a chorus of the same.
"If'n ye don't mind gents, I'll be off ter make my offering ter the lucky fish. Don't wanna be late for Nymph Day an it's in me pocket now." he said as he tipped his round green hat, tugged on his waistcoat, and departed through the front door.
After he left the group could hear other bits of conversation about the room.
"Nymph Day comin' soon, I guess? Town's gonna be excited about that." "Nymph Day?" "Yeah. Kind of like the Fey Festival, but in the fall and more shoppy than dancy." "Merchants ya mean?" "Yeah, dat's right. Kamen'll be here with his coon wraps. I do like those." "You are the only one my friend." "You seen Kylie about lately?" "Yeah, got the fishing boat and went up the coast a bit where she found some spottail last week." "Where they doin' it?" "Down at the docks. Some merchants set up shop on their ships." "Sounds exciting." "Yeah, not for the fishermen. They's have to tie up on the beach down by the old pier." "I forgot, storm got that one, right?" "Yeah" "Spooky too. The pier pirate haunts that place. "e'll take yer head from ya. Snaps it up wit his noose he drops down from the top of the pier." "You can walk on it." "Haha, only if'n yer a ghost." "Meebee I'll tie off somewhere's else."
And so the gossip continued as they finished eating.
DM James: Gossip Map Thursday September 1st, 2022 12:15:24 PM
One of the patrons leaned in and said. "Don't be getting too excited. 'ceptain for a few, it innit that much coin. I hear that Hook City has one crone aweful tariff on outside magic. They just don't like any magic brought in from other places. Onlyest reason they take the Woad Beer is that they can't make their own. Raphus has the secret. Still, nobody here has ter pay taxes and dats the benefit to us all. The council, guardsmen, deputies and sheriff, dock workers, and the dockmaster all get paid outta dat money. Repairs on the docks, walls, roads, and some buildings too. The Woad hunters get a right good share too and of course the Fey Festival Queen get hers. Yer didn't tink those ladies were doing it for the status did ya? Dem young single ladies can start up a household right nice with their earnings, and most times she and one of dem chair holders put theirs together and get hitched. Course as you know it don't always work out so well....ya know.. Big John with his Fey Queen instead of Waldo. She figured she'd have Johns share and hers, but couldn't stay away from Waldo. Guess now wit him ded it'll be easier." the man shrugged.
"No taxes!" the man called out as he raised his beer and was followed with a chorus of the same.
"If'n ye don't mind gents, I'll be off ter make my offering ter the lucky fish. Don't wanna be late for Nymph Day an it's in me pocket now." he said as he tipped his round green hat, tugged on his waistcoat, and departed through the front door.
After he left the group could hear other bits of conversation about the room.
"Nymph Day comin' soon, I guess? Town's gonna be excited about that." "Nymph Day?" "Yeah. Kind of like the Fey Festival, but in the fall and more shoppy than dancy." "Merchants ya mean?" "Yeah, dat's right. Kamen'll be here with his coon wraps. I do like those." "You are the only one my friend." "You seen Kylie about lately?" "Yeah, got the fishing boat and went up the coast a bit where she found some spottail last week." "Where they doin' it?" "Down at the docks. Some merchants set up shop on their ships." "Sounds exciting." "Yeah, not for the fishermen. They's have to tie up on the beach down by the old pier." "I forgot, storm got that one, right?" "Yeah" "Spooky too. The pier pirate haunts that place. "e'll take yer head from ya. Snaps it up wit his noose he drops down from the top of the pier." "You can walk on it." "Haha, only if'n yer a ghost." "Meebee I'll tie off somewhere's else."
And so the gossip continued as they finished eating.
Dao (Art P) HP 24/24, AC 19/15, CMB 8, CMD 22 Thursday September 1st, 2022 2:23:05 PM
“Your loving compassion for this community generates great merit and displays insight and wisdom,” Dao say quietly when the tale is told. He hears the rumors floating around without listening and sits, relaxed, in peaceful contemplation.
Snark Riverstone (MarkB) AC13 T13 F10, CMD 12, HP 29/29 Thursday September 1st, 2022 7:01:54 PM
(Still waiting for resolution on the Catacombs sale of our loot. So, just to be clear, no loot has been passed out to the party, including funds for the sale of the ship we found. I will let you know when this happens.)
Snark will ask around if there are any spellcasters willing to trade spells.
Later, he will wander down to the docks to check out the wares being sold on the ships there.
Isaac Harker (Justin M) HP 40/40 AC22/ T13 / FF 21 d20+6=9 ; Thursday September 1st, 2022 11:42:32 PM
Isaac is intrigued about news about the Ghost of the Old Pier. He follows Snark as they head for the merchant boats both to see the wares and to investigate the Old Pier if he has a chance.
Gore'Thum and Teddy Treeborn (Mitch) HP 32/32 AC 12/11/12 CMD 11 Gore'Thum HP 30/30 AC 12/12/11 Friday September 2nd, 2022 8:00:41 AM
Gore'Thum and Teddy are done eating and drinking so head off to do some Bloodwitch training.
Dao (Art P) HP 24/24, AC 19/15, CMB 8, CMD 22 Friday September 2nd, 2022 8:09:30 AM
Dao heads to the docks with Isaac and Snark.
“Benni” AC 18/11/17 CMD12 HP 13/ 20 Onesimos (SteveK) d20+3=7 ; Friday September 2nd, 2022 8:18:07 AM
Benni spends the day with Akoka, sorting things out. He tests the waters to see if she would be willing to talk about what her team saw in the Abbey…
”We have been slowly clearing the outbuildings at the Abbey, and encountered some strange phenomena…”
Diplomacy. 7
DM James: Gossip Map d20+6=8 ; Friday September 2nd, 2022 9:23:03 AM Dao listened to the story of the Spirit Woad. Afterwards he followed Issac and Snark.
Snark offered some information about the adventure, but was interested in finding a spellcaster to trade spells with. SnarkHighlight to display spoiler: {DM James: There's a rather unsavory fellow Olostim spoke of that lives on Wall St. near Mojo. You think Olostim said he was a Star Mage studying the Chaos Bell and it'a effects but not a very helpful person. }
Issac follows Snark to the docks.
Teddy and Gore Thum find a secluded spot and begin with their witchcraft training.
Benni visited Akoka.
The old pier is about a half mile to the west of Heranmar and built out from a natural outcropping of rock that extends into the bay. Sand has collected around the rocks making a nice little out of the way beach for those that didn't mind the chill. All that was left of the pier however was a few pilings near the shoreline and a lone platform a hundred yards out into the bay. In the morning fog you think you can barely see a ghostly boardwalk extending out into the water to that platform.
At the WLA stall Benni saw that once more the place was a shambles. When the subject of the Abbey is broached Akoka seems to become heavily absorbed in what she's doing. "I should probably go home. I left a kettle on."
Benni and Perception DC 20 Highlight to display spoiler: {It's almost exactly the way you last saw it last. You remember moving that stack over there and it's still where you put it, but other things look like they are in the same place as before.}
DM James: To avoid any misunderstandings, Nymph day is coming soon, but it's not today. People are just starting to talk about it.
Benni and Sense Motive DC 8 Highlight to display spoiler: {Akoka is hiding something.}
Dao (Art P) HP 24/24, AC 19/15, CMB 8, CMD 22 Friday September 2nd, 2022 10:00:22 AM
Dao will walk to the end of the outcropping of rocks, looking about to see what he may see. Is there a continuation out to the platform? A ghost? Seaweed? Stone crabs? He is equally happy with any or all of the above. Perception 12
Snark Riverstone (MarkB) AC13 T13 F10, CMD 12, HP 29/29 Friday September 2nd, 2022 4:19:17 PM
As Snark is done looks over the wares set up on these ships, he keeps an eye out for small gifts that someone might appreciate. Never know when you need a gift.
Later that day, Snark asks the tavern keeper or perhaps the sheriff this Star Mage's actual name.
He will ask the tavern keeper about purchasing one of his best cured sausages, some cheese, some bread and a growler of beer. Then he will trot of to see this other mage on Wall Street. "Meetings and greetings usually start off better with food."
Isaac Harker (Justin M) HP 40/40 AC22/ T13 / FF 21 d20+3=22 ; Friday September 2nd, 2022 11:07:45 PM
Isaac not quite sure what he was looking at walked over to the edge of the out croppings with Dao though he trails behind the Monk. He does however get a pretty good look at whatever it was out at the old pier.
If it turns out to be nothing Isaac will walk around the vendors looking for those selling books and religious items.
Kristoph: (Stephen C) | AC:17 | CMD:24 | HP: 40/40 - Blusinda: AC:16 | HP:21/21 d20+9=13 ; d20+9=26 ; Saturday September 3rd, 2022 5:56:09 AM
At the inn when the man mentioned ‘big John’, his ‘fey queen and Waldo Kristoph remains silent and when he leaves Kristoph waits a few seconds then too, making an excuse by mumbling something about leaving something at the smithys.
Outside he runs to catch up with the man and asks: “Hey mind if I walk with you?” and unless the man instantly objects or Kristoph spots someone following them he walks with the man and asks: "It sounds like there may be more to the story about John, Waldo and the lady. Do you have any theories? Do ya think there could have been some foul play"?
(Perception: 13 - Sense Motive: 26)
“Benni” AC 18/11/17 CMD12 HP 13/ 20 Onesimos (SteveK) Saturday September 3rd, 2022 2:04:24 PM
Onesimos doesn’t pursue Akoka. Instead, he takes her excuse as nothing special. ”OK, I think I will close up for you. Love of mutual purpose!”
The elf is worried, but considers tactics before blundering in. It may take some time, he thinks, before he can heal his mentor.
Kristoph: (Stephen C) | AC:17 | CMD:24 | HP: 40/40 - Blusinda: AC:16 | HP:21/21 Monday September 5th, 2022 2:24:25 PM
Blusinda looks very proud of herself in the "Blue Cat Inn" as to honour the guests she turns her flame green for the night.
Dao (Art P) HP 24/24, AC 19/15, CMB 8, CMD 22 Monday September 5th, 2022 5:29:04 PM
Dao’s voice, sounding flat and dead in the clammy, breathless fog, sounds across the unseen waves. “In the argent light of a moon so bright, a gossamer veil appears. A reft, a cleft betwixt life and death - a portal most men fear. Tell me sorrowed spirit, what draws you to this space? Let us help you to let go and find your resting place.”
Jon S (James's other half ... he's the pretty one) Map Monday September 5th, 2022 7:08:59 PM
OOC: Ok I'm taking over, but had a busy week, and just spent two hours helping my mom find her wallet. I'll try to get a post done here in a bit as soon as I figure out where y'all are and what's going on and whether my module got approved =)
Isaac Harker (Justin M) HP 40/40 AC22/ T13 / FF 21 Monday September 5th, 2022 11:29:31 PM
Isaac looks out at the sea feeling calm and remembering the boat ride that brought him to this sleepy little town how far away that felt.
“Benni” AC 18/11/17 CMD12 HP 13/ 20 Onesimos (SteveK) Tuesday September 6th, 2022 12:15:12 AM
Ooc: no worries, James. We understand everyone gets busy. :-)
Kristoph: (Stephen C) | AC:17 | CMD:24 | HP: 40/40 - Blusinda: AC:16 | HP:21/21 Tuesday September 6th, 2022 4:17:13 AM
Kristoph meditates on his life choices
Snark Riverstone (MarkB) AC13 T13 F10, CMD 12, HP 29/29 Tuesday September 6th, 2022 8:41:28 AM
Snark listens to Dao's poetry. His eyes narrow as he looks up at the man. "Nice poem, but a little creepy. I'm keeping my eye on you."
Then he continues on his way to make a new friend of this Star Mage, and hopefully trade some spells.
Gore'Thum and Teddy Treeborn (Mitch) HP 32/32 AC 12/11/12 CMD 11 Gore'Thum HP 30/30 AC 12/12/11 Tuesday September 6th, 2022 9:25:58 AM
Much training is accomplished.
Dao (Art P) HP 24/24, AC 19/15, CMB 8, CMD 22 Tuesday September 6th, 2022 10:16:48 AM
Snark really gets around, Dao muses. From the tavern, he visited the catacombs then saw spellcasters to trade spells, then visited the docks to check out the wares on the ships, then dropped by the old pier, where he stopped his headlong dash long enough to listen to (and comment on) his poem, then back to the tavern to ask about the star mage and gather a dinner for 2, then visit the mage on Wall Street. Dao watches the gnome race by and smiles delightedly at his antics. Who knew those little legs could go so fast!
DM James: Gossip Map Tuesday September 6th, 2022 4:12:07 PM
DM James: I know DM Jon is busy, but before another day goes by without a post I thought I'd add this.
The day passed and evening arrived along with the prerequisite fog clogging the streets as Snark made it way down the street from lamp post to lamp post. Occasionally he'd meet a fellow traveller on the street and they'd acknowledge his presence with a tip of the hat or a nod. After some small amount of time he made it to the Star Mages home, or so he thought.
As it happened, the home belonged to an old woman named Hudson and she was letting out the rooms in her home. This star mage was renting out a flat on the upper floor. Mrs. Hudson answered the door with a hand towel in her hands and after looking outside to confirm the time of day she wiped her hands, sighed deeply and trudged up the stair behind her to announce the gnome.
Perception DC 15 Highlight to display spoiler: {A What? Gnome? Tell him to go away. I'm contemplating the nature of this fog and why it visits itself upon the town so frequently. There's an artifact at work here, I know it. I just need time with my books. What? Oh well, send him up, but don't make him feel welcome.}
A few moments later Snark was taken up the stairs where a man was going over some tomes on a large table. To his right were alembics, decanters, vials, and flasks and some even had noxious substances bubbling them them over a flame.
********
At the Blue Cat Tavern a bard had arrived on the last ship and he'd found a warm spot next to the fire. He seemed to be interviewing the elemental cat there in the fireplace. Blucinda kept preening as he spoke in some sort of language that resembled hissing, spitting and waving his hand about. After his conversation with the cat, he started making some notes on a roll of parchment using some arcane formula that consisted of dots, lines, and dashes. Moments later he started singing a low tune about brave cats triumphing over undead....Blucinda preened some more.
Elsewhere in the Tavern people were gossiping as they liked to do here.
"You seen Stipple?" "Not since yesterday. Said he was going fishing around the cape." "Oh, he'll be gone a bit then." "The Rolling Wave's in port. That's their shanty singer right there. Name of Floyd I think. Sunburns easy I hear." "That's why he's so pink then." "What's with the lighthouse?" "What cher mean?" "Lights been off last two nights." "Can't be good that. Whip should go check on him." "Oh he did. Went out this afternoon." "He back yet?" "Naw, you know Whip. He's probably getting one on with the old man. Seen him with a cask." "Hahaha! That's Whip for you." "Oh, Seen the pier pirate yesterday. Almost swiped me neck he did." "You got lucky then, old man Jonsey got pulled into the water. Nearly drown too, but his son was there to pull him out."
Jon S (James's other half ... he's the pretty one) Map Tuesday September 6th, 2022 5:41:41 PM
OOC: Thanks James ... i've got two weeks of school left, and have to make up 30 hours if time at my practicum site + 40 hours at work this week ...
as a player and a GM I do have some questions about the "Market" in Heranmar ... it has access to the Catacombs where the players can exchange magical items? And the Ahkoka lady, is her office in Heranmar, or in the Catacombs ... That's one thing that stopped me from making a post yesterday was trying to figure out if everyone was in Heranmar, or if we had PC's in two or three separate places ...
Dao (Art P) HP 24/24, AC 19/15, CMB 8, CMD 22 Tuesday September 6th, 2022 9:18:48 PM
OOC: So, no ghost appearance at the old pier, I’m assuming. Shame . I had hopes of helping it find peace.
“Benni” AC 18/11/17 CMD12 HP 13/ 20 Onesimos (SteveK) Wednesday September 7th, 2022 12:12:39 AM
Benni works hard and cheerfully, retiring to the Blue Cat in the evening for dinner, conversation, and some pleasantly surprising music. He isn’t surprised the mini-team didn’t see the Pier Pirate. ” I, too, wish any undead can find peace in the Lands of Rest. Or cleansing in Unrest as their choices in life provided. I’m not sure it is real, or perhaps a fey manifestation instead.”
“For Snark, it took me a bit to get used to him: no filter, boundless energy.”. Benni smiles fondly at the gnome.
Snark Riverstone (MarkB) AC13 T13 F10, CMD 12, HP 29/29 Wednesday September 7th, 2022 1:28:44 AM
(Snark will Take 10 on his Perception roll to hear what the man said.)
Snark knows this Star Mage is working on something, and is trying to find out about the fog. He will approach the door to the man's room. He hopes he might gain some spells from this person.
"Beggin' yer pardon sir, but my name is Snark and I heard you were a wizard and all, so I wanted to pay you a visit. I was even thinking we could maybe trade some spells. Look, I brought some food and beer.
"Also, I overheard you say something about the fog. You know, we encountered some sorta fog being in the Spirit Swamp. Isaac thought it might be some sort of regional power, and there was a creature in the Spirit Swamp that was trying to sacrifice one of the townsfolk to it."
Dao (Art P) HP 24/24, AC 19/15, CMB 8, CMD 22 Wednesday September 7th, 2022 8:22:15 AM
Sitting in his seat, Dao sighs serenely and slowly sips cider. Letting the bard’s music and the quiet rumbling of rumors settle over him like a warm, gentle Spring rain, he abides in the eternal now.
DM James: Gossip Map Wednesday September 7th, 2022 8:55:19 AM "Espiravrona, Lady of the Mists. Yes yes, she is known to me. She's a rather minor power here, but has an iron grip on the Spirit Swamp." he said rather gruffly. "Got to be gentle going into her territory, she's mighty fickle. That book there," he said pointing at a large tome entitled "The Chaos Bell and the Powers it unleashed."
Perception DC 15 Highlight to display spoiler: { the book was written by Burne Firestriker}
"What do you want? Trade spells? Bah! You have Locate Object? Identify? Don't know why the guild sent me here....grumble grumble grumble."
*********** The Tradehouse Located just east of Looking Glass Pond, this group of 7 two-story buildings, all connected, are used as an indoor marketplace with trading stalls that are very cheaply rented out by the town council. The profits are used for city repair and improvement. The various organizations are also located here, The WLA and Star Mage guild have a small presence with a stall on the first floor. Not everyone who trades here is from Heranmar. Many of the gifted set up shop here in the southernmost building. Folks from throughout the Gateway Downs visit regularly to buy and sell their wares, food, etc. The northernmost 2 buildings are filled with animal pens for the buying and selling of smaller livestock. More pens are outside the walls east of town for larger animals. Nymph Day at the start of each month is the most popular day of trading and those coming informally form “trading trains” for safety during their trip.
The first floor of the tradehouse was where most business was conducted and for those that needed it the entrance to the catacombs in Elle's stall. Animals, produce, fresh meat, and textiles were all available here as well as a couple or organization chapter houses. The second floor was more open and where live music, dances, and town events generally took place due to the unpredictable nature of the weather. A few shop stalls were up there as well as the WeatherAll who for a price would tell you the weather for the next day.
Outside the tradehouse they saw it was not one building, but several built closely together. Wooden shields affixed to the side of the structure were actually signs with the service and goods offered within. "Charms, Curses, and Cures! - Elle the Gifted" proclaimed one sign, "Weather Charms!" proclaimed another, and one particularly bright red one with black letters stated simply, "Equipment, Tackle, and Gear, Filael."
***********
"Hey Dao, why don'cha get rid o' the hangin' tree. That is if'n yer tryin' ter put spirits at rest." Said an evesdropper. That of course started a whole new round of gossip.
"He needs ter talk to Prissy, he does." "Ain't she gettin' old?" "Friend, she was old ten year ago. She's practically a zombie now." "Still dressin' up?" "Yep. It ain't pretty." "What about Mojo?" "Yeah, he was there. What with Helen bein' kilt though 'e mightna wanna talk."
The conversation droned on as the bard listened and started to play again. This time it was a lilting tune about a disease that left one numb.
Dao (Art P) HP 24/24, AC 19/15, CMB 8, CMD 22 Wednesday September 7th, 2022 9:18:34 AM
“What is the hanging tree, and why does it need to be gotten rid of?” Dao asks. “Who is Prissy, and why would someone have to speak to her to get rid of the tree?
Gore'Thum and Teddy Treeborn (Mitch) HP 32/32 AC 12/11/12 CMD 11 Gore'Thum HP 30/30 AC 12/12/11 Wednesday September 7th, 2022 9:26:52 AM
Teddy and Gore'Thum finish their training for now. They wander town and do some shopping. For some reason they feel like someone is going to show up soon, maybe a new party member.
Dao (Art P) HP 24/24, AC 19/15, CMB 8, CMD 22 Wednesday September 7th, 2022 1:20:12 PM
OOC: A disease that left one numb? Is the bard playing Pink Floyd’s Comfortably Numb?
Isaac Harker (Justin M) HP 40/40 AC22/ T13 / FF 21 Wednesday September 7th, 2022 3:02:45 PM
Isaac decides to fill in Dao about the hanging tree. "There is a tree nearby and every so often (about a year I believe) it warps the mind of someone and it causes them to hang themselves. It's apparently some sort of ghost doing it. I'm not sure how close it is to that time it will strike again but if the locals are getting worried it might be time soon. The last person to be hanged by it was Waldo after that it seems he became a ghost as well. I'm trying to find waldo's ghost apparently he's become very violent."
Dao (Art P) HP 24/24, AC 19/15, CMB 8, CMD 22 Wednesday September 7th, 2022 3:14:57 PM
“A tree that warps the mind is no tree at all. Has anyone tried to destroy it or the ghost that inhabits it? I have heard that holy people can sometimes cause lost souls to return to where they belong. Perhaps Benni has this power…? “Or perhaps destroying the tree would send the ghost to its proper place.”
Snark Riverstone (MarkB) AC13 T13 F10, CMD 12, HP 29/29 Wednesday September 7th, 2022 11:16:32 PM
Snark thinks to himself, Ooo. He's a grouchy one. I kinda wish Benni were here - he'd know what to do to calm this guy down.
"It's...it's a pleasure to meet a Star Mage sir...I...
"Aw, who'm I kidding? Look pal, you seem like a pretty no-nonsense guy. I'm a wizard, new like you once were. I'm just trying to study magic to learn my craft. Locate Object and Identify would be swell spells to learn. I can pay you, or I can trade you. Or maybe I can help you.
"I'm new to Heranmar, tryin to navigate this place and these people are kinda weird, all superstitious and stuff. But that superstition is based on some things that are probably real. We been to the Spirit Swamp. I appreciate knowing about Espiravrona, the Lady of the Mists. We've been to the Abbey, and that place seems partly stuck in the Fey Realm. We plan on heading back there.
"Is there maybe something I can do for you?"
“Benni” AC 18/11/17 CMD12 HP 13/ 20 Onesimos (SteveK) Thursday September 8th, 2022 12:16:05 AM
Benni is tired from working so long, and decides he needs a break. A wander down to the Blue Cat is what he needs, he thinks. Stepping inside, he spots Dao and makes his way over. The people giving the new stranger in town all the old superstitions. But Dao has a fresh mind, and the cleric is intrigued. The elf leans against a wall nearby to listen in.
Dao (Art P) HP 24/24, AC 19/15, CMB 8, CMD 22 Thursday September 8th, 2022 8:17:26 AM
“Ah! There’s Benni now,” Dao says. “We are discussing the hanging tree. If it is inhabited by a misplaced spirit. Can you return it to it’s rightful place? Perhaps along with Waldo? Where is Waldo, anyway? Does he also stay in the tree? If so, perhaps the tree is a gate to the spirit world, if there is such a place.”
Snark decided to dispense with the niceties and approach the wizard head on. When he finished his mini rant, the wizard replied dismissively.
"I told you what I want to trade. If you aren't good enough to have either of those I suppose another divination would work. Otherwise I'm not interested in your money or what you can do for me. Go away."
**********
"More o' a hanging stump." piped up someone in the room. "Taint a tree quite yet and yer don wan ter see it as a tree neither. That my friend is bad luck what wit that man swingin' at the end o' the rope an all."
Meanwhile in the background the bard was singing about missing his girlfriend or something about wishing someone were here.
"He know about the dock devil? What about the Beast of Thoom, or the frost fiend? Gettin' rid of those would be good too."
"Hey, what was the little fella doing at Burne Firestriker's place. That fella is bad news. Jim went to help 'em two months ago. Ain't seen 'em since. I think he was kilt."
"He's evil, that one." confirmed another.
"I saw Jim last week. He came back on the Sea Sprite. Pickin' up somethin' in Hook City fer Burne, 'e said."
"Well then, still think 'e's evil."
"He ain't done nothin' wrong. Whip looked into him. Surly fella, but law abiding if yer believe dat!"
KS: Religion DC 15 Highlight to display spoiler: { Typically to get rid of a haunt you have to find out the particular means of banishing it. Generally it is connected to why it’s a haunt to begin with. }
Dao (Art P) HP 24/24, AC 19/15, CMB 8, CMD 22 d20+4=8 ; Thursday September 8th, 2022 2:26:57 PM
“Seems like it’d be a neat trick to hang yourself from a stump,” Dao commented to no one on particular.
Isaac Harker (Justin M) HP 40/40 AC22/ T13 / FF 21 d20+14=20 ; Thursday September 8th, 2022 11:20:53 PM
"Regardless whether it's a stump or not it keeps acting up. My theory is it's probably a haunt and those things a right pains to get rid of. We need to find out more about the tree and when it started happening. Cause haunts can usually only be gotten rid of by some sort of symbolic or special action. Like clearing the name of who or what is causing the haunt or if it's feeling particularly evil kill those who hung them. It's not an exact science." Isaac takes a sip of his drink.
Snark Riverstone (MarkB) AC13 T13 F10, CMD 12, HP 29/29 Friday September 9th, 2022 1:26:39 AM
Snark will share all his spells. (It's probably easier to look at the spells link on my character sheet than list them here in a post.)
"I'm sorry to say sir that I do not have those two spells. But I do have Comprehend Languages. But perhaps even more useful might be Shrink Item. It would allow you to bring along a writing desk or a box of books with ease. Unseen Servant could tend to tasks for you to free up your time. Dispel Magic could get you out of a predicament or let you bypass a magical trap that is guarding a bit of lore."
Certainly, if the man is not interested in what Snark does have, he will leave the food for the man as a gift and return to the inn.
Dao (Art P) HP 24/24, AC 19/15, CMB 8, CMD 22 Friday September 9th, 2022 8:19:35 AM
“Thank you for the knowledge, Isaac,” Dao says. “Has anyone tried communicating with the haunt? If not, I may go pay it a visit. I would be glad for any company.”
DM James: Gossip Map Friday September 9th, 2022 9:16:58 AM
Snark
"Comprehend Languages? Hmph. That might be handy. Here." the old mage said as he tossed a ring at Snark. "Put it in there."
As soon as Snark picked up the ring he knew what was in it. Snark Highlight to display spoiler: {Speak with Objects, Touch of History, and Unconscious Agenda. DM: Please note that these spells are not Woldian.}
After Snark put the spell in the ring the Star Mage snapped. "What do you want?"
*************
Back at the Blue Cat things were starting to get lively as the Bard had switched to singing about the ocean and pretty women. The added noise didn't keep the nosey patrons from overhearing and one of them pulled up a chair next to Dao. "The tree don't hang YOU. YOU see 'em swinging there all ghost like and 'e puts it in yer mind that you should jest end it all. Then you do sumtin stupid like jump off the town wall onto the rocks. That's what happened last year. Stayin' away from dat is the best thing. Rainy nights is the most dangerous."
"Yer wanna go after the dock devil? He's a right nasty critter. Been around fer ages." he said.
Sense Motive DC 15Highlight to display spoiler: {He's pulling your leg. He doesn't think anyone can rid the docks of that haunt.}
One of the wealthier sailors in the room raised a pint of Woad Beer and made a toast. "Ter all yer unlucky sods!"
DM James: Whoo hoo. Heranmar Woad Beer has been approved. It's now Woldian. I'd like to thank Zack Hume for the creation of Spirit Woad.
Dao (Art P) HP 24/24, AC 19/15, CMB 8, CMD 22 d20+8=22 ; Friday September 9th, 2022 9:51:56 AM
“Ah, so the haunt in the tree preys upon the untrained mind and convinces the person to kill themselves. I feel sorrow for it as much as its victims. It is generating so much bad karma that it will be consigned to the hell realms when it leaves the tree. Out of ignorance and wrong thinking, it is making its path so difficult.” A tear runs down Dao’s face. He ponders for a few moments and seems to come to a decision. “The next rainy night, I will try to contact this lost soul and ascertain what anguish caused it to trap itself here and commit these non-virtuous acts. Then, perhaps I will learn how to help it leave this place so it may start the long and painful process of purifying its karma.” He pats the man on a shoulder. “Thank you, friend, for the gift of you knowledge. Please inform the barkeep that the payment for your next drink will come from me.” “As to the dock devil, we’ll, let’s address one issue at a time.”
Isaac Harker (Justin M) HP 40/40 AC22/ T13 / FF 21 d20+6=24 ; Friday September 9th, 2022 9:55:00 PM
Isaac grins at the sailor getting the joke." Be a shame if I had bust it. Who will the lazy dock hands blame if the make a shotty knot or drunks blame when they get scared by a cat at night." When Dao starts talking about going to see the tree next stormy night Isaac drops the smile and warns him " Don't go running off on some dangerous delusion you can just talk to the Haunt. This things killed and will do so if it gets the chance. If you want to go investigate your gonna need all the Luck Bringers backing you up. I'm not about to let you or anyone get killed by this thing again."
“Benni” AC 18/11/17 CMD12 HP 13/ 20 Onesimos (SteveK) d20+7=20 ; d20+13=20 ; Saturday September 10th, 2022 3:14:51 AM
Onesimos has been distracted and being unconsiderate by not paying attention.
He considers all the tales of little things about Heranmar. ” Typically to get rid of a haunt you have to find out the particular means of banishing it. Generally it is connected to why it’s a haunt to begin with.”. Benni isn’t even sure they are undead per se, but something else.
In any case, he will help Dao.
Dao (Art P) HP 24/24, AC 19/15, CMB 8, CMD 22 Saturday September 10th, 2022 5:03:24 PM
Dao smiles broadens at the phrase “dangerous delusion”. He nods. “Thank you for you concern and compassionate offer,” Dao tells Isaac. “I would be grateful for your help.” And to Benni. “Then our task is to find the means of banishing it. What is it’s unfinished business?”
Dao (Art P) HP 24/24, AC 19/15, CMB 8, CMD 22 Saturday September 10th, 2022 5:03:24 PM
Dao smiles broadens at the phrase “dangerous delusion”. He nods. “Thank you for you concern and compassionate offer,” Dao tells Isaac. “I would be grateful for your help.” And to Benni. “Then our task is to find the means of banishing it. What is it’s unfinished business?”
Snark Riverstone (MarkB) AC13 T13 F10, CMD 12, HP 29/29 Sunday September 11th, 2022 2:42:05 AM
The Star Mage asks Snark what spells he might want. He thinks for a moment.
"Thank you good sir. I would benefit from the Tiny Hut spell, or perhaps Sleet Storm if you have that."
Whatever the mage responds, Snark will treat him kindly and thank him for his time, leaving the food and beer he brought with the mage for his use."[/b]
Gore'Thum and Teddy Treeborn (Mitch) HP 32/32 AC 12/11/12 CMD 11 Gore'Thum HP 30/30 AC 12/12/11 Sunday September 11th, 2022 8:45:15 PM
Teddy is very certain he wants nothing to do with the haunt, and equally certain Gore'Thum will find some way to drag him along, especially now that Isaac said the whole group should go.
DM James: Goodbye's Map d100=52 d10=4 Monday September 12th, 2022 9:31:49 AM
Snark made his request and the Wizard hrumphed. "Never had much use for cold spells. Let me see here....oh yes, here ya go." he said as he pulled out an old spellbook, flipped through it a few times and then ripped out a page. "Here you go. Be off with you." Snark looked and saw the Sleet Storm spell inscribed on the loose page.
Snark and Perception DC 15 or KS:History DC 20 Highlight to display spoiler: {The spellbook belonged to Lavinia Goldmane. She was a well known mage from Plateau City that went missing several years ago. Snark remembered it principally because she'd last been traveling with Akoka. "}
**********
Kristoph stood at the end of the evening and addressed the group. "I received a letter from my holy order and I've been asked to accompany the "Bold Explorer" on it's journey into the depths of the Gateway Downs. Since I'll be gone for a while and don't know when or if I'll return I wanted to say farewell to everyone. Though the ship may not depart soon, I have to report aboard her and get to know the crew. I'll be off in the morning. For now I'll have to retire for the evening, as I've an early day in the morn."
The monk left the elemental cat in the fireplace, but all who heard that announcement knew that the place wouldn't be the same without Kristoph and his blue creature.
Sure enough the next morning the monk was gone. So too was the Bold Explorer, though the news was that it was due back in port next week as it completed its shakedown cruise.
The morning was surprisingly clear though dark storm clouds hovered on the horizon to the east. Word about town was that the storm was coming.
As they gathered 'round for breakfast Ralphus dropped a sack in front of a few of the Luck Makers. "Yer share of the Woad Beer."
DM: Snark, Issac, Benni, and Teddy each get 4,000 gp from Ralphus.
Dao (Art P) HP 24/24, AC 19/15, CMB 8, CMD 22 Monday September 12th, 2022 9:36:12 AM
Dao hugs his fellow monk. “I wish you clear sight, sound wisdom and endless compassion on your journeys and hope karma will bring us together again either in this life or in a future one.”
Snark Riverstone (MarkB) AC13 T13 F10, CMD 12, HP 29/29 Monday September 12th, 2022 11:53:28 AM
Snark accepts the spell from the man. "Thank you mister Star Mage. Say, what's you name?"
The little gnome will take his leave, returning to the inn.
That evening, as Kristoph is making his announcement, Snark is reminded about the party's treasure.
"Oh, hey. Some folks have some loot coming. Kristoph, here's your share. Isaac, here's some for you. And you too Benni and Teddy."
(Isaac receives 400 gp, since he already added a share to his character sheet, but it was incomplete back then. Benni, Teddy and Snark receive 3,783 gp. Let me know if I missed anything.)
Snark thanks Ralphus for his kindness in sharing the proceeds from the Woad Beer.
Isaac Harker (Justin M) HP 40/40 AC22/ T13 / FF 21 Monday September 12th, 2022 11:05:22 PM
Isaac shakes Kristoph's hand and passes him a letter. "We'll miss you and if you get a moment can you deliver this letter it's for my parents. Don't want them working about me more than they have too."
Isaac takes his share of treasure and thanks Snark.
Gore'Thum and Teddy Treeborn (Mitch) HP 32/32 AC 12/11/12 CMD 11 Gore'Thum HP 30/30 AC 12/12/11 Tuesday September 13th, 2022 5:42:07 AM
Gore'Thum and Teddy say their goodbyes to Kristoph before going to bed. In the morning Gore'Thum is eager to drag Teddy off on some sort of adventure, whatever might be available.
“Benni” AC 18/11/17 CMD12 HP 13/ 20 Onesimos (SteveK) Tuesday September 13th, 2022 5:53:10 AM
Onesimos gratefully takes his share and immediately spends on an upgrade at the Catacombs.
To Kristoph, he gives a farewell blessing, respect from cleric to cleric who, though different patrons, are together in the same ideals. ”Go with your god and mine, and I will look for your return. Friend.”
To the rest of the team, he brings up the subject. ”So… let’s release some more undead from the Abbey stables.”
Dao (Art P) HP 24/24, AC 19/15, CMB 8, CMD 22 Tuesday September 13th, 2022 8:25:09 AM
Dao nods his agreement to visiting the abbey. He has been up stretching, exercising and meditating for hours already. His pack rests against his left foot.
DM James: Back to the Abbey Map d100=14 ; Tuesday September 13th, 2022 8:43:40 AM
The distance to the Abbey was negligible and before long the heroes were walking out the town gate towards that haunted building. It had of course decided to rain that morning, so the trip was a wet slog down the path to that dark structure. Fortunately the road was packed with rock to keep it from being muddy. They had the dwarves to thank for that, but it wasn't altruism on the part of the dwarves as this road doubled as the one they'd use to deliver stone from their quarry. The Spirit Swamp road was much worse than this one.
As soon as they exited the town they could see the abbey ahead at the top of the hill overlooking the sheep pastures on its western side. Already a few shepherds were there observing their flock and the heros as they approached the building. The sheep and the dogs they used to keep the sheep together ran and played about their work as the group passed beyond the low stone walls that surrounded the structure.
Overhead the cloudy rain filled sky went from gray to black as darkness descended on the haunted structure. None of this was surprising to those that had been here before, nor was the feeling of dread that surrounded the place.
Will Save DC 15(Fear) On fail Highlight to display spoiler: {You are shaken. A shaken character takes a –2 penalty on attack rolls, saving throws, skill checks, and ability checks. Shaken is a less severe state of fear than frightened or panicked.}
Those brave enough to keep going rounded the building until the carriage house entrance was visible once more. The doors were open as they'd left them when they exited with the carriage. Approaching those doors they could see the light from above shining down into the garden within though it was pitch black where they stood. Inside was an exit to the south down a narrow passageway wide enough for a man and a horse.
Dao (Art P) HP 24/24, AC 19/15, CMB 8, CMD 22 d20+7=18 ; Tuesday September 13th, 2022 11:06:52 AM
Dao takes a pair of leather gloves out of his haversack and puts them on as he rounds the building and approaches the entrance. His step is steady, his face serene, as if he were ambling aimlessly through a beautiful park. A stranger to the place, he follows the other party members who were unaffected by fear.
Snark Riverstone (MarkB) AC13 T13 F10, CMD 12, HP 34/34 d20+9=13 ; Tuesday September 13th, 2022 11:19:54 PM
Before leaving, Snark will use Shrink Item to turn 10 cubic feet of water into a small cloth that he folds up and puts in a pouch.
The little mage makes a quick run to the Catacombs, and then hurries to keep up with the party.
As we approach the Abbey grounds, he says, "Hold up, hold up. Let's do this right." He makes it a point to stop everyone before entering to cast Resistance on each person to add +1 to their save.
Still, even with that benefit, Snark fails his save and is Shaken. "Boy, even when I'm prepared this place can give me the creeps."
Abilities/Items Acid Dart (Sp) 8 - 0 used Gnome (Sp) 1/day - Dancing Lights, Ghost Sound, Prestidigitation, and Speak with Animals. Wand of Enlarge - 43 charges left
“Benni” AC 18/11/17 CMD12 HP 13/ 20 Onesimos (SteveK) d20+8=19 ; d20+6=22 ; Wednesday September 14th, 2022 12:28:21 AM
Onesimos is glad to see the Stable Doors are still open, that means nothing has been here since they left.
He is also grateful of Isaac’s presence, the Paladin’s nature helping drive away fear. Benni himself will lay a Calming Hand on Snark and any who are affected by the creepy place.
The elf explains to Dao, ”we did not explore the passageway yet. The light should be coming from the door to the garden. It was as of it were day even though the rest of the Abbey grounds are always in darkness. I saw fey things flying when I peeked in but did not enter.”
Taking a glance at the others, he moves to again look into the Garden.
………
Will. 19. (+4 for Isaac not included) Calming Touch 1 of 6. Removes shaken condition. Perception. 22
Gore'Thum and Teddy Treeborn (Mitch) HP 32/32 AC 12/11/12 CMD 11 Gore'Thum HP 30/30 AC 12/12/11 d20=7 ; d20+6=24 ; Wednesday September 14th, 2022 8:11:05 AM
As always Gore'Thum and Teddy find the presence of Benni comforting in this dark place (he has an aura that gives +4 vs fear). The comfort isn't enough to help Gore'Thum resist it today, though Teddy suffers only his usual nerves (11 fore Gore'Thum, 28 for Teddy)
DM James: Unexpected Guests Map Wednesday September 14th, 2022 8:13:24 AM
DM James: The Shaken condition remains until it's dispelled or you leave the Abbey grounds.
They entered the carriage house and a few headed right and out into the small courtyard like garden. The statues they'd seen before were still there and unchanged. As for the sky it was as Benni had said and looked strange.
The garden itself had the entrance from the carriage house as well as a set of double doors all knew would require a key to use. It had been long established here that without a key nothing one could do would allow passage through any doors.
As for the southern passageway, flagstones gave way to planks that lead back towards another section of the Abbey. Based on the scuff marks on the stone and wooden planks it must be where the horses had been stabled. Still, the passageway was dark with a faint bit of light coming from the east a ways down the corridor. The gentle noise of happy croaking frogs from beneath the planks could be heard as they stopped to look down the hallway.
They were walking about in the carriagehouse when they heard a bumping noise and an Elf stuck it's head out of a horse stall on the northeastern wall.
DM James: Ben joins us here. Hopefully he'll have something important to say to keep you from killing him. Someone needs to be at BS49 to see down the hall. Please place yourselves on the map where your PC is. Exploration further into the Abbey won't happen until you've committed to a location...you know so I can throw a trap at you. LOL!
Dao (Art P) HP 24/24, AC 19/15, CMB 8, CMD 22 Wednesday September 14th, 2022 8:37:17 AM
OOC: Where on the map is Ben and what does he look like? Likely, wherever we are on the map will change as we approach the stranger and our actions may be influenced by how he makes his entrance.
Dao (Art P) HP 24/24, AC 19/15, CMB 8, CMD 22 Wednesday September 14th, 2022 10:29:49 AM
OOC: Dao will be at BU48.
“Benni” AC 18/11/17 CMD12 HP 13/ 20 Onesimos (SteveK) Wednesday September 14th, 2022 2:08:39 PM
Onesimos begins looking into the strangely sunny garden, but when Snark and the others call out there is a stranger in the horse stalls, he turns to join the group in a defensive stance.
His pale and narrow face is framed by long brown hair untidily bound with a fragile-appearing diadem. The elf is in simple clothes with elaborate embroidery and counter-stitching in a wild flower motif, but most is covered by his armor and a sleeveless calf-length coat. Summer sky eyes watch without weighing, and a woven ivy and willow design in High Woldian is on a woven band around his neck.
”Hello? Are you lost? Do you need help?”. The elf is ready to defend, but watches what the other elf will do.
…. Calming Touch 2 of 6. (Snark and Gore Thum)
Dao (Art P) HP 24/24, AC 19/15, CMB 8, CMD 22 Wednesday September 14th, 2022 3:43:42 PM
Dao is a rather tall, slim, bald half elf with a good tan and startlingly white teeth, which he flashes at the newcomer in a broad, welcoming smile. He clasps long gracefully powerful-looking hands together in front of his heart and bows slightly at the waist. He is wearing simple, loose-fitting brown robes. No weapons or armor are in evidence.
Snark Riverstone (MarkB) AC17 T13 F10, CMD 12, HP 34/34 Wednesday September 14th, 2022 8:54:50 PM
Snark follows Benni in. He whispers loudly to the cleric, "Benni - are you nuts? Everything in here tries to kill us. That guy might look like an elf, but it prolly has tentacles or eyes in the back of it's head or or big, greasy wings or something. At the very least, it might be a fey trying to trap us into eternal servitude!"
Snark will cast Mage Armor on himself.
Isaac Harker (Justin M) HP 40/40 AC22/ T13 / FF 21 Wednesday September 14th, 2022 11:12:36 PM
Isaac walks into the Barn not quite sure where there meant to go from here he hears the bump coming from the north and joins the others to see what the noise is. He looks over at the elf head poking out of the stall. Isaac himself looks very much like a guard: chain mail armor, shield and sword. Isaac's eyes are blue with a dirty mop of blonde hair like he had just gotten out of bed on the left side of his face was a scar below his eye. "Let's hear what they have to say Snark they might not be from around here"
Isaac Harker (Justin M) HP 40/40 AC22/ T13 / FF 21 Wednesday September 14th, 2022 11:13:19 PM
Ooc: Isaac is at:BR44
Dao (Art P) HP 24/24, AC 19/15, CMB 8, CMD 22 Thursday September 15th, 2022 7:53:19 AM
Dao will move up to the left of Isaac at BQ44.
Gore'Thum and Teddy Treeborn (Mitch) HP 32/32 AC 12/11/12 CMD 11 Gore'Thum HP 30/30 AC 12/12/11 Thursday September 15th, 2022 8:12:49 AM
Teddy is handing back out of nerves and notices the side passage. Hearing frogs he looks down the hallway curiously, then here's the others talking to someone and hides around the corner from Ben.
DM James: Unexpected Guests...and Frogs Map Thursday September 15th, 2022 4:49:16 PM
DM James: Ben has been delayed. I have the PTB looking into his issues.
The elf kept to the shadows as the Luck Makers all converged in one way or another. The darkness seemed to cling to him, obscuring any details they might try to make out. Snark took a defensive stance and cast Mage Armor on himself, Issac peers at the elf through the darkness with his all seeing eyes, and Teddy upon hearing the frogs and then the newcomer he hides out of sight.
In the garden high overhead the cottony clouds soared leisurely by, each choosing a different direction as if they had a mind of their own. Some stopped and seemingly conversed before heading off in other directions, others seemed to wave at each other as they passed by. It was a strange sight. The plants in the garden too were odd and unrecognizable from anything anyone had seen.
Elsewhere in the carriage house...
Perception DC 20 Highlight to display spoiler: {You spot a hole in the floor, 3' in diameter under a shelf set against the carriage stall wall. It looks similar to the one you saw in the outbuilding complete with scratch marks at it's edges where something, likely rat like, dug a hole.}
Issac Detect Evil Highlight to display spoiler: {Issac focuses on the elf, but detects no evil about him, unlike the aura that he picks up everywhere in the place.}
Teddy and Perception DC 15 Highlight to display spoiler: { Those frogs might not be real, he thinks, but they sound spooky nonetheless. Make another WILL Save DC 15 or be shaken.}
Snark Riverstone (MarkB) AC17 T13 F10, CMD 12, HP 34/34 Thursday September 15th, 2022 6:26:15 PM "Hey Gore Thum. You're a frog. Ask those frogs what's under the floor besides them."
“Benni” AC 18/11/17 CMD12 HP 13/ 20 Onesimos (SteveK) d20+6=17 ; Friday September 16th, 2022 6:10:50 AM
Benni is used to being patient, and continues to focus on the elf, waiting for a response.
He continues his conversation with Snark. ”Undead also need help, though they do not often realize it. They often can’t get to the Lands of Rest on their own and need holy energy or cold steel to help them on their way. Just because it’s often dangerous doesn’t mean it’s not help.”
Dao (Art P) HP 24/24, AC 19/15, CMB 8, CMD 22 d20+12=21 ; Friday September 16th, 2022 8:15:25 AM
Dao nods in agreement with Benny’s wisdom. Suffering was suffering whether you are alive, dead or something in between. Without awareness of the true nature of the mind, samsara was inescapable. Like Benni, the monk waited patiently. He had nowhere to go and nothing to do. The stranger would reveal himself to them when he was ready.
Corym Morhice (Ben V) AC16 T15 F12 CMD16, HP 32/32 Friday September 16th, 2022 2:13:14 PM
Corym gently steps out of the stall, hands raised. "I mean no harm. I was passing by when I stumbled upon this place. It wasn't the warmest welcome I've received."
He steps fully out into the hallway and out of the shadows, his hawk-like features now illuminated.
Corym Morhice (Ben V) AC16 T15 F12 CMD16, HP 32/32 Friday September 16th, 2022 2:17:06 PM
ooc: Corym has moved to BR40
Dao (Art P) HP 24/24, AC 19/15, CMB 8, CMD 22 Friday September 16th, 2022 2:26:42 PM
OOC: Would you please describe Coryym to us?
Dao (Art P) HP 24/24, AC 19/15, CMB 8, CMD 22 Friday September 16th, 2022 2:52:07 PM
OOC: Please disregard. I read his description in your character sheet.
IC: “I am Dao. And what have you discovered here so far?” He asks in a soft, clear deep voice. His bright, dark-brown eyes are filled with amusement and affection, as if you and he are old friends who share a private joke.
DM James: Unexpected Guests...and Frogs Map Friday September 16th, 2022 5:43:25 PM
Since Corym is the current focus let’s continue with that over the weekend. I’ll post on Monday
Snark Riverstone (MarkB) AC17 T13 F10, CMD 12, HP 34/34 Friday September 16th, 2022 7:46:36 PM
The elf at the end of the room steps out where Snark can see him.
No claws. No tentacles. No rotting flesh. No greasy wings. Paladin's not worried. Maybe Snark was wrong about this guy.
The little gnome is dressed in green. He smooths his sky blue hair and beard as he trots up to this tall, skinny, hawkish stranger and reaches his hand up high to shake the elf's hand.
"Hey, so, sorry about assuming you were here to kill us. I'm Snark Riverstone, resident wizard. Are you alone here? This place ain't safe. Yer welcome to stay close to us, especially that Paladin - he makes me feel less afraid here." He gestures at Isaac.
Then he gestures toward Benni. "And if you do get scared here, that there's Benni. He's a love cleric and he can make those shaky feeling go away. I mean, he's not the smootching kinda love, more the group hug kinda love."
He looks the elf archer over. "You any good with that bow? No armor, eh? You must be quick on your feet like Dao there. Oh, and don't worry about that giant frog - it talks and calls itself Gore Thum. It has a pet teddy bear there it calls Teddy, who's pretty good a healing folks.
"We killed some undead in this place, so keep your eyes sharp."
Isaac Harker (Justin M) HP 40/40 AC22/ T13 / FF 21 d20+3=18 ; Friday September 16th, 2022 9:20:12 PM
"I'm not really getting any bad vibes from this guy but I do think something is off. Can you talk sir?...If he's undead he probably the nicest one we met" Isaac stay in position drawing his shield but not his sword. He didn't want to spook the odd fellow.
“Benni” AC 18/11/17 CMD12 HP 13/ 20 Onesimos (SteveK) Saturday September 17th, 2022 12:28:22 AM
Onesimos gives a wince at Snark’s description of the simplistic description of ‘love’, but wisely thinks now is not the time for a lively discussion. Instead, he smiles at the elf’s comment. ”You are in the Abbey, generally considered the most haunted place in Heranmar. Forgive my caution to ask your name before we continue.”
The elf is pale with a narrow face is framed by long brown hair untidily bound with a fragile-appearing diadem. Wearing simple clothes with wildflower embroidery, most is covered by armor and a sleeveless calf-length coat. Summer sky eyes watch without weighing, and a woven ivy and willow design in High Woldian is at his neck.
Gore'Thum and Teddy Treeborn (Mitch) HP 32/32 AC 12/11/12 CMD 11 Gore'Thum HP 30/30 AC 12/12/11 d20+6=15 ; Saturday September 17th, 2022 2:01:24 AM
Teddy makes his will save (15) and nervously peeks out of his hiding spot to look at the newcomer. Gore'Thum, bold as always, walks right up to examine him. Gore'Thum is a giant frog, about 3 feet tall, with pebbled brown skin and a white underbelly. He looks the elf up and down and croaks "You're lucky. Very dangerous place. Come with us if you want to live." Teddy isn't so sure about inviting random strangers to come along but then again they can't exactly leave him here. Teddy is a small beastfolk. Bearlike and brown furred he could almost be mistaken for a stuffed animal if he was sitting still. He looks eternally nervous.
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