Dirt City: What’s the Sitch? Monday August 15th, 2022 3:44:25 AM
Hmerrin breathes in the outside air, and suggests a trip to Dirt City. It’s been 2+ years (because of that Teucri Time Bubble!) since the Tide has rolled into the city…
For Nira, it's been a little longer than two years – it’s been 100! She is looking forward to seeing Dirt City! She also has a suggestion to better communicate over distances and safely in tactical situations…
Desdichado gives the elf a rundown on the Dirt City situation. The Tide has a non-interference pact with the Houses, and the last the heroes knew, the Houses claimed to have taken care of their own rakshasa problems (and refused all offers of independent verification). He writes to the Domi Plateau City temple, and (supposedly) intends to drop it off at the nearest Woldian gods temple or WLA for delivery ……………
The mine and pocket-plane are destroyed, the hub of Rakshasa operations in the Emerald Kingdom is cut off and removed.
The heroes report the situation to the Karri authorities, providing reports to the local temples and WLA. Then there is a trip to Dirt City. While Nira has never been to Dirt City, Danko has, and the Sorcerer/Rogue also knows the Teleport spell. The heroes will not have to find a boat and make the arduous voyage south along the river: through the Emerald Kingdom, along the plains of western Izen, around the long bend with Mount Bone in the distance… And then getting off at the hills just north of the Forest de Blanc and walking the final days to Dirt City. No, it is only gathering the courage to have a magical transportation, casting a spell, and arrival in the courtyard of The Tide’s Dirt City headquarters!
There is a bit of hullaballoo: a surprise appearance of Danko and Ramierez who have been gone nearly a year, and with Hmerrin, Desdichado, and Gaffer who had disappeared from the face of the Wold! And the roster of the Tide has changed since they were last here too: Sarge and Toston are no longer around, and Nira is.
It looks like the heroes are going to have to calm folks down, find some trusted people, and then get a low-down of what’s been going on! …………..
Reminder Notes: The last the heroes know the Dirt City NPCs know… 1) Two+ years ago; Sarge, Toston, Hmerrin, Desdichado, and Gaffer left to travel to Sarge’s dwarf clan in response to a letter asking for help. 2) A year later, Toston’s fiance’, Nissa, hired Ramirez and Danko, and (with all of Toston’s gnome followers) packed up in search of the Tide.
Gaffer - Courtney - HP: 127/144 AC: 34(T:16/FF:) CMD:29) d20+26=29 ; Monday August 15th, 2022 7:52:59 AM
Gaffer is happy to visit the city after such a long time and his first port of call is to check on his old gardens and the tree he had moved into their courtyard not long before they left. He'll spend much of his first day back flying over the city, back in hawk form, reacquainting himself with it's alleyways and getting a feel for what might have changed in their absence. (Perception: 29)
Desdichado (Ryan) [HP:122/161; AC:32/15/30 - CMD 32] d20+22=24 ; d20+26=33 ; Monday August 15th, 2022 3:11:45 PM
Desdichado feels like the entire town is watching them as they step out of Tide House (OOC: is that we we named the new HQ?) after having been gone for so long.
He begins taking up his usual patrols and tries to reacquaint himself with the area (Perception: 24)
As he patrols, he strikes up conversations with those willing to talk with him, trying to improve attitudes and undo any fears or concerns that might have arisen from their long absence (Diplomacy: 33). He will make his way to the Temple of Wardd eventually, but for now figures there are too many eyes on him to try to re-make any acquaintances there.
Hmerrin (MikeK)(HP 152/178 AC:32 T:18 FF:27 CMD:35) d20+17=25 ; Monday August 15th, 2022 5:24:47 PM
"Hi everybody!" Hmerrin waves as they appear in the courtyard. "Did you miss us? Do we still own the place?"
The young fighter will start off by making the rounds of Tide House, which seems as good as name as any.
He walks around the grounds, poking his nose into just about everything, and asks in general how people are doing.
Perception checks for anything different - 25 Diplomacy (taking 20 to gather information) - 21
Danko Pureheart (Yves) -- AC 26 ( mage armor 30, 31 haste, 35 with Shield ) -- CMD 36 -- HP 64./110 Monday August 15th, 2022 8:03:44 PM
Danko gives a weak wave and heads straight to the nearest ale house.. for some ale.... and to plan how he's going to spend his loot.
Ramirez (BrianZ) AC30/19/23 HP78/122 CMD32 Monday August 15th, 2022 8:50:32 PM
Ramirez joins Hmerrin, checking out the house, and then checks in with the local neighbors to see how things have been.
RobC - Nira Wynvyre -- AC 22*/14*/18* (+2 vs Evil) -- CMD 21 -- HP 109/114 -- DarkVision/ArcaneSight/SeeInvis Monday August 15th, 2022 11:17:05 PM
Nira joins Dez to get a tour of both the house and local surrounds. She figures being seen with him will help others see her as a friend (and not a likely pickpocket target). She smiles to all the people that he meets and introduces herself as well. When they're out of earshot she asks Des: "Are people around here always this friendly?"
At the house she asks meekly whether there are any spare rooms that she might call her own.
Gaffer - Courtney - HP: 149/149 AC: 27(T:18/FF:22) CMD:35) d20+27=33 ; Tuesday August 16th, 2022 5:11:55 AM
Gaffer takes to the skies as a Hawk once more and does a full lap of the city, seeing what has changed and getting a feel for the mood of the city. With a few years passing, who knows what has happened in the city with their absence.
[i]----- Perception: 33 [i]
Danko Pureheart (Yves) -- AC 26 ( mage armor 30, 31 haste, 35 with Shield ) -- CMD 36 -- HP 64./110 Tuesday August 16th, 2022 6:24:29 AM
A somewhat drunk Danko leaves the ale house. A big grin on his face and a few coins lighter.
He too wishes to take to the air.
Leathery wings sprout from his back and he starts running before yelling " UP UP AND AWAAAAAAAY! "
He takes to the air and goes for a joy ride using his new wings.
Tide House: Past and Present Tuesday August 16th, 2022 9:40:52 AM Tide House, as heroes are reminded or learn, is a former manor with an enclosed courtyard in the Moon Quarter of Dirt City. Out-buildings line the three walls and are filled with workshops on the main floor and living quarters above. A clean water pool now sits in the middle of the courtyard, and the solid wooden gates keeping out the rest of Dirt City seem well maintained.
Tombo Greenhand (human tavern-owner), Mazea Ironthane (dwarf leatherworking), and Sunny Culpepper (human sewing school), and Cinzi (human nightwatch) have all moved to Tide House and can give the skinny on what has been going on.
Two years ago, this sandstone and red tiled roof was the home of Galafar, a successful ‘independent’ merchant, who used his house as a secret temple to Ga’al (the heart-seeding god of Alisidur). The heroes of the Tide had discovered Galafar was in fact a Rakshasa lieutenant of Golden Eyes (main rakshasa baddie) named Anduin who had also killed most of the WLA in Dirt City and tried to kill The Tide, and the Rakshasa were using the Ga’alian priests as dupes to further subjugate Dirt City!
In the ensuing fight, The Tide revealed the multi-layered plot of the rakshasa and that they had been busy infiltrating the Houses of Dirt City too! Afterwards, representatives of the Houses, the Prince of Thieves, and The Tide all met and hammered out an agreement. The Houses got a promise of no interference from the powerful heroes, and got the inside information that Rakshasahad successfully infiltrated all Houses, the Princes Household, and several other organizations (the WLA and possibly the temple of Wardd, too). The Heroes got possession of the former Rakshasa headquarters (in Moon Quarter) and the promise that the Houses would not have House operations in the MoonQuarter, enabling the heroes to have a House-free part of the City Above.
Soon after The Tide moved in, most of their protected supporters felt it was also time to move!
Finally, they have been using the last of Toston’s fiance’s (Nissa) proceeds to refurbish the House. There is a ground floor of commonly used rooms, a first floor of 8 unused bedrooms (sparsely furnished awaiting a personal touch), and a flat roof that could be used for just about anything.
In Dirt City
The paladin doesn’t waste a day, taking up his usual patrols and reacquainting himself with the area. Danko also heads straight out, but to the nearest ale house… Ramierez, after a look at the House, checks in with neighbors. Nira also joins Dez to get a tour and to be seen as part of The Tide. Gaffer does his old thing as a Hawk and takes to the skies.
The heroes don’t see much that has changed. Busy markets, foreboding House Towers, and the over-topping Prince’s Castle, Arena, and Temple of Wardd are in their accustomed place. So too is the squalor of the docks, Grubber Town, and the Burn.
The only people who really talk to the heroes are the merchants calling from their stalls during the day: everyone else keeps their business to themselves. Again, normal.
What is not normal is that people don’t seem to notice that The Tide has been gone for so long. That is, until Danko and Ramierez remind Hmerrin, Desdichado, and Gaffer that D&R helped Nissa pretend the Tide were still in residence. They made illusions and disguises, and made occasional appearances as the team. Most of Dirt City think they have only been gone 6 months. Which, after all, is only usual in long-distance travel…
Hmerrin (MikeK)(HP 152/178 AC:32 T:18 FF:27 CMD:35) Tuesday August 16th, 2022 5:16:24 PM
Hmerrin's face falls a bit as Nira proposes her telepathy idea.
He sheepishly holds up his recent purchases from the Catacombs. "oops."
"It's a great idea," he hurriedly continues. "And as soon as we pick up some more loot, I'd say its the first thing we should do."
The lack of general knowledge regarding The Tide's prolonged absence is fine by the fighter.
To make up for his greedy faux paus, he gives Nira a tour, pointing out the available rooms on the second floor. OOC - I thought we had a map of this place. Anybody got a map?
Gaffer - Courtney - HP: 149/149 AC: 27(T:18/FF:22) CMD:35) Tuesday August 16th, 2022 6:04:35 PM
[OOC: I think Gaffer moved a tree from outside the city to the courtyard using Liveoak, giving the triggering phrase to their friends as a form of defence. It wasn't in the description so wanted to check if it is still present? Otherwise Gaffer asks how the new tenants would feel about a new tree being brought in.]
Gaffer meets up with a merry Danko in the air for some flying acrobatics before regrouping with the others on the ground. "I can cover your share Hmerrin, I think this is something worth us having. Though erm, Nira, would we all heareverythingwe each think?"
Since it is a bit of a reunion in the city, he suggests that they all go for food at Tombo's like old times.
Desdichado (Ryan) [HP:122/161; AC:32/15/30 - CMD 32] Tuesday August 16th, 2022 6:09:26 PM
"This is particularly pleasant," Desidchado says to Nira about the responses from people. "We've definitely been treated worse."
Back at Tide House, he asks Tombo what he's fixed up. He chats with him for a while about their trek out and the brief stay they had in Angel Springs on their way to the Scab helping Sarge's clan. He spends particular time telling him about some of the halfling dishes they had, figuring he might like to add them to his menu.
As the group meets back together, he says "Since Nissa has been keeping up the illusion that we've been here are along - and she's been looking for us - maybe we should stop by and give her an update...as well as ask her for updates about the past couple of years."
The paladin is up for the telepathy plan as well.
Desdichado (Ryan) [HP:122/161; AC:32/15/30 - CMD 32] Tuesday August 16th, 2022 6:14:04 PM
(OOC: About Tide House: A map would be great! If I recall, we've only seen the top floor and I think there are supposed to be more rooms below?)
Ramirez (BrianZ) AC30/19/23 HP78/122 CMD32 Tuesday August 16th, 2022 8:01:27 PM Checking in with Nissa sounds like a good plan. Can I pick one of the rooms and cleanup first?
RobC - Nira Wynvyre -- AC 29/15/25 -- CMD 23 -- HP 122/122 -- DarkVision/ArcaneSight/SeeInvis d20+14=28 ; d20+14=21 ; d20+14=29 ; d20+14=24 ; d20+14=34 ; Tuesday August 16th, 2022 9:17:37 PM "Would that be a problem, Gaffer? Any thoughts you wouldn't want to share with the group?" Nira tries to keep a straight face but can't. "Just kidding. No. It doesn't work that way. It's just like talking, but you do it with your mind instead of your mouth"
Nira will duck off to the Catacombs to get the scrolls (and a few other items for herself), and then when they have a moment at the house she will do the castings.
She waits to hear the response to Ram's question. She'd also like one of the spare rooms. If the party don't mind of course. She's not particularly fussed which one. As long as there is room for some books she'll feel right at home.
"Are there any good taverns about? How about we all meet up for dinner later. First round on me?"
----------------- Caster Level checks to use CL20 scrolls: DC21. 28, 21, 29, 24, 34 = All Pass.
Settling In Wednesday August 17th, 2022 2:08:13 AM
Danko, somewhat tipsy, leaves the ale house, and decides to get some air with his new draconic wings. Citizens scatter, children scream, and the Sorcerer/Rogue creates quite a consternation across the city!
Hmerrin is a little sheepish at Nira’s proposal: it’s a great idea, but the Fighter has already blown his loot! The lack of general knowledge regarding The Tide's prolonged absence is fine by the fighter. ooc: The DM is searching for the map. I may have to make a new one from memory.
Gaffer sees his tree is still standing alive and tall in the courtyard (ooc: thank you for the reminder!), and the people of Dirt City who stick around can see the dragon-man have some acrobatics with a common hawk. He wants a little clarification on the mind-speaking, and suggests that they all go for food at Tombo's like old times.
Desdichado provides commentary to Nira on the ‘citizens’ of Dirt City, talks with Tombo,about possible menu changes, and suggests a visit to Nissa.
Ramierez agrees checking in with Nissa sounds like a good plan, but he wants to clean up first!
Nira teasingly clarifies how the telecommunication magic works. She’s also interested in getting a spare room, a cleaning, a Catacombs run, a good tavern…
……………
The heroes meeting with Tombo, Sunny, Mazea, and Cinzi seems to be particularly useful. And they are joined by a gnome couple; Jaspertink (Jasper) and Posiepocket (Posie). Introductions are given all around, and soon the conversation is dotted by Jasper opening his mouth to talk, but Posie finishing the topic! The fond looks they pass back and forth ensure the heroes this is an old and fond game between the married pair.
Through this conversation, The Tide learn several things: a. Tombo gives the group a map of the refurbished Tide House. (Ooc: follow-on email)
b. Tombo, Sunny, and Mazea agree that the heroes will probably hear three different types of stories and information: 1) those within Tide House and close Tide allies [i.e. WLA and Brother Elthorn from the Temple of Ffloy] , 2) most people of Dirt City, both Above and Below, and low-level Houses, and 3) House and Prince leadership.
c. Tombo, Sunny, and Mazea have been managing the courtyard area of Tide House as an informal committee. They have their shops open during the day and live inside the walls.
d. Japser and Posie manage Tide House proper: Posie the ground floor and kitchens, and Jasper the upstairs cleaning and upkeep. Their five children (Marygold, Calla, Agate, Obsidian, and Nickel) all help.
e. Nissa and all of Toston’s relations are no longer in Dirt City. The heroes remember that Nissa, Ramierez, Danko, and all Toston’s relations were at the dwarf hold when the group got out of that Teucri Time Bubble. Nissa ambushed Toston with a wedding and the pair planned an extended honeymoon! That’s why most people think The Tide have only been gone 6 months.
f. Tombo’s Tavern is open and doing well just outside the gates of Tide House. “Best move I made. Brisk business and better access to seafood and imported wines! Mistress Nira, I dare say you won’t find better in Dirt City.”
………….
Packages soon arrive from the Catacombs for Gaffer, Hmerrin, Danko, Desdichado, and Nira.
The heroes take a week to settle in and get used to the goings-on in Tide House and in Dirt City in general. In that time, there are no reports of House activity in Moon Quarter, nor any rumors of what has been going on in the Houses.
A ten-day after the Tide appeared in the Tide House courtyard, an invitation from the Prince of Thieves arrives, asking for a quiet meeting…
RobC - Nira Wynvyre -- AC 29/15/25 -- CMD 23 -- HP 122/122 -- DarkVision/ArcaneSight/SeeInvis Wednesday August 17th, 2022 4:16:07 AM
Nira grins widely to Tombo. "I'm sure I won't. Still, I think I had better check it for myself. Do you have a table or two free? Uh... regularly?"
She spends quite a bit of time in the Tide House library. Can you believe it? A library right where she's staying! Amazing! She starts by looking for history books to try and catch up on the past hundred years. After that, she looks for the dustiest books. They're usually the oldest ones. Sometimes it can be a lucky find and it's a tome of great information no-one has ever heard of before! Other times it might turn out to be a record of local tax matters, so, you know, you take your chances.
Besides that she makes herself a regular at Tombo's Tavern, getting to know all the staff there on a first name basis, and trying all sorts of different food. She isn't that keen on seafood, but tries whatever else she can get her hands on. She tries to make sure she visits every day, whether for breakfast, lunch or dinner, and always invites the rest of the party to join her if they wish. When dining alone she often brings a book from the library to read.
It's on one such day where Nira is returning from the tavern, book in one hand and half eaten apple in the other, that the invitation arrives. She doesn't know if this is a common occurrence or not so bites into her apple while waiting for someone to comment on it.
Danko Pureheart (Yves) -- AC 26 ( mage armor 30, 31 haste, 35 with Shield ) -- CMD 36 -- HP 64./110 Wednesday August 17th, 2022 6:25:39 AM
Every once in a while the shape of the mid size dragon can barely be seen overhead... Then one morning, close to dawn, what appears to be a dragon lands near the edge of Tide House, The dragon takes a few steps then starts to shimmer.... the dragon disapears and where it had been is now Danko, grinning from ear to ear.
{ Well, }
he thinks to himself.
{,,, that should prove useful,,, }
Desdichado (Ryan) [HP:122/161; AC:32/15/30 - CMD 32] Wednesday August 17th, 2022 2:33:40 PM
Desdichado enthusiastically greets Jasper and Posie, and appreciates the information from everyone on what's been happening. He thinks it's nice to see a bustling little marketplace in the courtyard.
"Well, we were only here for a very short while after claiming this place," explains Desdichado when Nira asks about where she can stay, "and these rooms weren't even set up yet. Please take whichever looks best to you."
On hearing of the Prince's request, he winces. "He doesn't ask to speak with us often, but when he does it's never for anything good."
(OOC: Oops, Brother Elthorn from the Temple of Ffloy is who I was thinking of earlier, not the Wardd temple.)
Hmerrin (MikeK)(HP 152/178 AC:32 T:18 FF:27 CMD:35) Wednesday August 17th, 2022 4:48:55 PM
Hmerrin claims the room next to the stairs (AX 12), and let Nira knows she's welcome to the corner (AX 6).
At one of the group dinners, he asks about magical defenses. "I mean, can we do all those glyphs and wards and whatevers the raks are using?" we wonders over a chicken leg. "By Domi this is good. Tombo is gonna make me fat."
The invitation by the Prince elicits a look that echoes Dez' comment.
"Maybe he just wants to know about the dragon buzzing the city," he grins. "Seriously, last time he told us to leave him and the Houses alone. And we have. Should be interesting given all the skills and goodies we've gained since our last talk."
He ponders. "'Quiet talk' sounds unofficial. Probably should go as we are, rather than get all formal."
Ramirez (BrianZ) AC30/19/23 HP78/122 CMD32 Wednesday August 17th, 2022 6:32:55 PM Maybe not too formal, but it is an invitation from a Prince. I'll at least have to consider what color to make my cloak.
Gaffer - Courtney - HP: 149/149 AC: 27(T:18/FF:22) CMD:35) Wednesday August 17th, 2022 7:51:47 PM
Gaffer throws his things into one of the corner rooms at random (AP22) only to be pleasantly surprised in the morning when the smell of Tombo's cooking wafts it's way up through the floor.
He spends some time during the week preparing another Spellstaff. He also purchases a few Holly Berry seeds to plant in the soil around the tree.
"We had a Hallow spell on the old place, I could look at putting up another one here."
As for the Prince, Gaffer finds himself caring a lot less about what the Prince has to say after the houses allowed the Rakshasa in.
"We need to make our way to Plateau City sooner rather than later, as long as they keep our Wardd clear, I'm not too keen to get wrapped up in house politics at the same time as we're dealing with the Rakshasa."
A Visitor Thursday August 18th, 2022 3:28:31 AM
Nira integrates with the Tide House people quickly, especially drifting to the library and Tombo’s. She might find what is called the ‘library’ as less than impressive. It has plenty of light and places to sit or write, but the number of books is… 12. Six ledgers on the former estate, three ‘Trixie Belden’ books about a teenage girl solving mysteries, two identical grammar books (tattered and dog-eared), and one of extremely sappy love poems from Nissa to ‘my Tosty-Wosty’. None are magical or otherwise significant.
Danko finds the only time he has wings is when he casts his new spell “Form of the Dragon II”. (Still a couple of levels before he has his own.) And keeping higher up helps alleviate the panic that was in the streets. Shimmering from dragon to Danko in front of Tide House also enables the rumor to quickly spread on who the ‘dragon’ that’s been seen actually is.
Desdichado is happy things are going well until the ‘invitation’ arrives. He morosely tells Danko, Rameirez, and Nira his opinion of the Prince’s interest.
Hmerrin claims two rooms for him and Nira, and suggests improving magical defenses. The blonde young man echoes Dez, then grins. Should be interesting! 'Quiet talk' sounds unofficial.
Ramirez does note it is an invitation from a Prince. Even if the ‘prince’ is elected by the Houses and his job is more on minimizing House conflict, and if he can’t do that he doesn’t last long…
Gaffer chooses a room, sets plants and spells, suggests another Hallow spell, and scoffs at the Prince’s invitation. The druid notes they need to NOT get involved in politics at the local level when dealing with the Rakshasa. As long as the Houses are leaving Moon Quarter alone, the Tide need to get ready for Plateau City!
…………..
Hmerrin and Ramirez want to visit the Prince. Dez groans about the invite, but hasn’t agreed one way or the other. Gaffer hasn’t rejected the invite, but hasn’t said they should go, either. Nira feels she doesn’t know enough to weigh in, and Danko just seems to want to blow off some steam.
It is a luke-warm response, at best, but given the history of both Dirt City and the ‘Prince of Thieves’, it could hardly be any better. The same evening that the Tide has the conversation, as the heroes are doing their final actions before sleep, Jasper comes knocking on doors. ”Excuse me, sirs and ma’am, but a visitor showed up in our Parlor, and is asking for you.”
Arrival at the Parlor finds Cinzi standing at the doors and watching an athletic-looking human man with well-groomed but graying beard. He does not have a cloak nor weapon, and his tight garments would make it difficult to have anything hidden on his person. He puts aside his teacup and stands slowly, making no sudden moves. “Tide Heroes, I am Darmious Foxx, a lieutenant for the Prince of Dirt City. I am here to unofficially pass information between you and my principle. He most wishes to keep the present arrangement with the Tide, and toward that end, to inform you of House actions to ensure the removal of Rakshasa in Dirt City. He also wants this discretely, so has sent me to you instead of you visiting the Castle, which would certainly be noticed.”
……. Sense Motive DC 20 or Detect Lie Highlight to display spoiler: { Darmious believes he is not lying and feels he is sincere } Detect Evil Highlight to display spoiler: { Darmious doesn’t detect as evil } Detect Magic Highlight to display spoiler: { Darmious has no magic auras or equipment } True Seeing Highlight to display spoiler: { Darmious is as he appears } Perception DC 25 Highlight to display spoiler: { he has a mark on two fingers where there have recently been a ring, and his left ear is pierced but no earring. He moves like a rogue. }
RobC - Nira Wynvyre -- AC 29/15/25 -- CMD 23 -- HP 122/122 -- DarkVision/ArcaneSight/SeeInvis Thursday August 18th, 2022 6:31:06 AM
Nira hereby makes it her mission to populate this 'library'. She considers those vile books that were recovered from the rakshasa hideout. It would be best they are kept somewhere safe and out of evil do-er reach. Perhaps this is the right place for them?
She makes use of the new telepathic powers of the group while inspecting Darmious and relays what she sees while silently eyeing him. "He speaks the truth. Well, and least he thinks he is. I don't see any magical auras on him either. Looks like he lost some jewelry. Missing two rings, and looks like an earing too."
Nira is a little confused by what she's hearing and when an opportunity presents itself she quietly speaks up. "I'm new to Dirt City and I don't really understand how things work here yet, but why would he want to be discreet about the removal of Rakshasa from Dirt City? Wouldn't that be a good thing? I mean no disrespect. I'm just trying to understand the politics here a little better."
Gaffer - Courtney - HP: 149/149 AC: 27(T:18/FF:22) CMD:35) d20+13=14 ; Thursday August 18th, 2022 2:54:29 PM
Gaffer's eyes take in the man and he notices the missing jewelry, an effort to hide parts of his identity perhaps? or just ensuring he isn't worth robbing while traveling the city. Hearing Nira's reassurances, he relaxes a little into his seat.
"I welcome any news of the Rakshasa removal." He offers, though sure there is an ask coming their way. It seems to much to hope that the Prince has been so open as to send someone over just for an update.
----- Perception DC25: Autopass Sense Motive DC20: Fail
The discussions continue about going to meet the Prince. Then, Jasper makes his announcement, and the group finds a well dressed rogue in the foyer.
"Or, we could just meet here," Hmerrin deadpans.
Darmious Foxx makes his pitch, and Nira reports her observations. The fighter is on very high alert, and gathers the same intel as well.
He's got a pretty good idea why the Prince doesn't want to publicly disclose how badly each House was infiltrated, but makes no comment. He's curious to see how Foxx responds to Nira.
"I don't suppose asking you what House you worked for will do us much good?" he asks, with all politeness he can muster.
Desdichado does his paladin stuff and confirms Nira's analysis of Darmious Foxx.
He lights up at Nira's words. "See! That's what I said! If we're all fighting rakshasa there's nothing to hide. But the Prince and the House leadership didn't want to agree with a paladin for some reason."
He's all ears to hear what the Houses have planned to ensure the rakshasa are removed.
Ramirez (BrianZ) AC30/19/23 HP78/122 CMD32 Thursday August 18th, 2022 7:28:40 PM It seems that the current arrangement continues to be agreeable. So you are here to provide a report of the Houses? How are their efforts to root out the Rakshasa proceeding?
Ramirez does not yet know all the politics involved and he wonders if this 'arrangement' is actually favorable for the Tide, or moreso for these Houses.
A Visitor Friday August 19th, 2022 3:02:16 AM
(ooc: The Dm isn’t sure the heroes have the permanent telepathy yet. I didn’t see 12,500gp listed for gear for 6 people, even if supported temporarily by other PCs.)
Nira waits for an opportunity and asks what to her is an obvious question.
Gaffer notes the missing jewelry, and waits for the next shoe to drop.
Hmerrin is on high alert, but trying to conceal it with aplomb.
Desdichado all ears to hear what the Houses have planned to ensure the rakshasa are removed.
Ramirez doesn’t want to beat around any bush, so comes right out and asks for the reason Darmious is in the Tide’s parlor. There are unasked questions lurking behind his eyes.
…………………
Darmious inclines his head respectfully. ”Mistress Nira, yes? The elf maid who seems to be the only one in The Tide on whom the Prince doesn’t yet have a full dossier. I believe the reason is simple: the Prince still wants to be Prince.”
And with that start, the poised, deliberately moving man provides what he believes is truthful and honest information, both to the heroes’ questions, and also to some that have been unasked! (It is evident he is both well-prepared for this meeting and quite an astute observer of situations and people in his own right. [i.e. high ranks in Diplomacy, Perception, and Sense Motive] )
- The Prince of Thieves is selected by the Houses to minimize inter-House conflict and promote House prosperity. In recent memory (just before Hmerrin joined the CMTC), when Prince Liam Kent died, Dirt City saw the rise and fall of three Princes in a single season. The next, Prince Argus Fexel, used immediate, disciplined violence to balance peace in the City. It is a precarious balance. Every House is ready to jump on another House (or Prince!) that shows weakness or an opening. So no-one will admit to the others there is a problem, but have every incentive to ensure they are independent from others (including Rakshasa).
- The Prince recognizes The Tide are powerful, and open or clandestine warfare against (or because of) The Tide would unbalance the current situation. No matter what happens or who is killed, the result of an unbalanced Dirt City would be the end of the current Prince. But if the Prince is seen working with The Tide, the Houses will see a shift in balance (i.e. Prince too weak/ powerful, The Tide as Prince’s patsies/ power-behind-the-throne). Result = unbalanced Dirt City.
- At the same time, the Prince sees The Tide would also want to keep the balance. An unbalanced Dirt City will kill a whole lot of people, most of them innocents.
- At the same time, there is the Rakshasa, also unbalancing, also end of the Prince. And The Tide are the lead in finding out and doing WLA work in stomping them out of the Wold.
- Therefore, it is in the Prince’s interest to cooperate with The Tide, but not openly. And the Prince thinks the clandestine cooperation is in The Tide’s interest too. If the heroes can agree with this assessment, then Darmious can provide information and updates on what’s going on which would assure The Tide they need not get involved.
For Darmious himself, he smiles depreciatingly. ”The Prince knows you don’t trust him, but you need information from a trustworthy source so you will not get involved. He found me: an honest outsider not affiliated with Dirt City or any House. I am unselfish enough for a paladin to speak with, confident enough to meet with you without any weapons (he touches his belt) or magic (he touches his ring and earring spots), and skilled enough to both avoid detection by the Houses and can provide the Prince as much information about The Tide as he is giving you.”
“So, are we at an accord?”
……. (All detection and skills reveal Darmious Foxx is trustworthy and believes he is telling the truth)
"You know, in a perfect Wold my tasks wouldn't include meeting with a representative of the Prince of Dirt City about why we should let the Houses do what they want."
"Help me understand exactly what we are agreeing to here: you are giving us information on what the Prince knows his happening with rakshasa activity in the Houses and we agree not to interfere with what they are doing? I've got to say, what if what they are doing is something we know won't work? Because so far, us killing them seems to work. It's slow and very difficult, but it works."
Desdichado is frustrated at this proposal, but if the rest of the group wants to go this route, he's willing to go along as well.
(OOC: Desdichado's equipment updated with 12,500 gp permanent telepathy scroll.)
Gaffer - Courtney - HP: 149/149 AC: 27(T:18/FF:22) CMD:35) Friday August 19th, 2022 4:33:58 PM
OOC: Updating Gaffer's sheet for 25,000gp for himself and Hmerrin's telepathy costs.]
Gaffer is reminded by Darmious' comments that not every city need be like Dirt City, but the conspiring of the houses is something he takes as given at this point.
He pours himself a tumbler of what whisky remains from before they left and waits for the conversation to continue.
Hmerrin (MikeK)(HP 152/178 AC:32 T:18 FF:27 CMD:35) Friday August 19th, 2022 5:52:36 PM
Hmerrin chuckles a bit at the line about being unselfish enough for a paladin to speak with.
"What?" he replies defensively at Dez' look. "It's a good line."
He listens to Foxx's spiel, and Dez' reply. "Well, I can see the difficulty with trying to keep six Houses in balance with each other and the Princehood," Hmerrin admits. "And I'm fine with exchanging intel. And I'm fine with continuing with 'We don't bother you and you don't bother us', especially while we got bigger fish to fry."
"But, he and you have surely noticed our fights with the rakshasa tend to be loud and smoky and attract a lot of attention. What's the point in sharing information on Dirt City's dealings with them, if we can't doing anything about it? Under these conditions anyway."
RobC - Nira Wynvyre -- AC 29/15/25 -- CMD 23 -- HP 122/122 -- DarkVision/ArcaneSight/SeeInvis Friday August 19th, 2022 9:39:26 PM "Well, I've been out of the Wold for a while, so it's no surprise the dossier is a little light. I'm guessing by that statement the Prince has dossier's on the rest of the group. I guess it makes sense to know those around you". The others in the party don't seem surprised by the fact. Perhaps they already knew?
"I wonder what's in them..."
The rest of the Tide know far more about the politics here and who can be trusted. Nira tries to take a quiet bite from her apple and is prepared to follow the lead of the others.
Danko Pureheart (Yves) -- AC 26 ( mage armor 30, 31 haste, 35 with Shield ) -- CMD 36 -- HP 64./110 Saturday August 20th, 2022 9:42:22 AM
Danko steps from the shadows having again visited the ale house.
He's not keen on what is being proposed as he generally has no trust with royalty or those that work for them. He feels that the proposal is bold but doesn't see how it benefits the group.
" Information is a powerful and VALUABLE commodity. I don't see how this proposol benefits anyone but those in power. In other words 'what's in it for us' ? "
Shrugging
" But, I'm just a hired blade so... you know... "
ooc> Danko isn't keen on a permanent telephathy being a thief and generally an untrusting person. And he doesn't have the coing.
Gaffer - Courtney - HP: 149/149 AC: 27(T:18/FF:22) CMD:35) Saturday August 20th, 2022 4:33:20 PM
Gaffer is happy to let Danko's comment hang and see if they can eek anymore benefits out of this conversation, but he makes a mental note to talk to Danko and Nira about the value of a none house controlled section of Dirt City. It's not something he thought the Tide would manage when they first joined, and he is honestly surprised it has lasted this long.
"I think our agreement to not get involved is as firm as the Prince's agreement to let us be."
RobC - Nira Wynvyre -- AC 29/15/25 -- CMD 23 -- HP 122/122 -- DarkVision/ArcaneSight/SeeInvis Saturday August 20th, 2022 10:38:50 PM OOC: If it's a matter of gold, Nira will happily put in for Danko so he can be included in the telepathic bond. If it's that he doesn't trust the rest of the party, that's a different issue
A Visitor Explains Monday August 22nd, 2022 3:40:35 AM
(ooc: please mark off the costs for telepathy, and we will assume this has already been done. So the Tide can ‘speak’ with one another without others in the same room to hear. Unless those people have ‘Detect Thoughts active…) ……..
Desdichado sighs. Gaffer pours himself a tumbler of whiskey. Hmerrin chuckles and points out how noisy fighting rakshasa tend to be. Nira wonders about the files Foxx mentioned, and tries to take a quiet bite from her apple. Danko shrugs, feeling he is just the hired muscle. ………
Darmious Foxx looks confused, then a half-smile and glint in his eye gives a hint he thinks something said has been humorous. He doesn’t take long to explain.
”I think I see: we are having a problem with definitions. You think the Houses ‘dealing’ with Rakshasa means ‘cooperating’ when the Prince and Houses think it means ‘eliminating’. The Prince and Houses have no more interest to be ruled or killed by Rakshasa than to be deposed or killed by The Tide.”
“The Prince is certain there are no Rakshasa in the top tier of any House or anywhere in the Prince’s household. Prince Fexel had a meeting with all House leadership in a room with a permanent anti-magic through a doorway with a forbiddance spell against Outsiders, and accessed by a corridor observed by a permanent true-seeing crystal ball. Anyone who did not get through or refused to go through, including the Prince, was killed.”
“The Prince then had every person in the Castle go through the same process. And each of the Houses have a similar process for their cadre and at any leadership meeting, the magic verified by the Prince’s team.”
“Outside of House leadership, do you know that 793 ‘people’ in Dirt City have recently deceased, disappeared, or fled? The Prince has a bounty for anyone to point out a shapeshifter, and then a flying squad with blessed crossbow bolts, well… Prince Fexel ‘dealt’ with the rakshasa problem: no rakshasa, no problem.” Foxx nods socially to Desdichado. ”Because so far, us killing them seems to work. It's fast and there is the occasional mistake, but it works." …………..
Again, every indication is Foxx is telling the truth. Nira (and through her telepathy: the other heroes) immediately knows that the magic that Foxx describes would require at least three Wishes or Miracles to set up. And with Foxx telling the truth, that gives an indication of the amount of power the Prince (and each House!) has available.
A Visitor Concludes Monday August 22nd, 2022 3:42:27 AM
Foxx holds up a conciliatory hand. ”The Prince doesn’t want rakshasa and doesn’t want a war either with or because of The Tide. He has concluded the best way to get those objectives is to give you a trustworthy source, me, and enough information without strings attached, for you to decide on your own that the best interests of you and yours are the same.”
Darmious Foxx straightens his tight shirt. ”That’s all I’ve come for. Would you like a visit from me each time you are in Dirt City? I can also relay any message to the Prince.” The man waits expectantly, but clearly has nothing else to say or offer.
Desdichado (Ryan) [HP:198/198; AC:32/15/30 - CMD 34] Monday August 22nd, 2022 1:50:15 PM
Desdichado nods. "That sounds...like a good plan." He turns to the more magically inclined members of the party. "Would the measures they've put in place work to ferret out rakshasa?" he asks.
Turning back to Darmious he says, "I was called to Dirt City apparently to deal with this rakshasa problem, not to tear down the Houses or the Prince. For my part, I'm satisfied...well, mostly. I'm sure some of these mistakes might just happen to be those who are imminent threats to the Prince, eh? In any case, Dirt City isn't the only place with a rakshasa problem."
Danko Pureheart (Yves) -- AC 26 ( mage armor 30, 31 haste, 35 with Shield ) -- CMD 36 -- HP 64./110 Monday August 22nd, 2022 3:56:49 PM
Danko leans against the nearest walls and throws his hands up in a "I don't know" gesture.
" You know my motto Des. Have shenanigans... and coins... and I'll be there. "
ooc> Rob, it's 90 percent coin, 10 percent being difficult. After some conversations between my Danko-ness and my Yves-ness we're prepared to accept your offer. Danko does have a slightly used and totally useless for him Cloak +4 of resistance that he's prepared to trade if you're interested.
Hmerrin (MikeK)(HP 152/178 AC:32 T:18 FF:27 CMD:35) Monday August 22nd, 2022 6:58:12 PM
"I see nothing wrong with a bit of information exchange," Hmerrin agrees. "So, sure. Feel free to drop in from time to time. I for one am delighted the rakshasa are getting it handed to them here. Though nearly 800 seems a wee bit high."
The fighter lets it drop.
"Anyway, we thank the Prince for driving things along. You can let him know we could be out of town for a bit, following up on another lead."
RobC - Nira Wynvyre -- AC 29/15/25 -- CMD 23 -- HP 122/122 -- DarkVision/ArcaneSight/SeeInvis Monday August 22nd, 2022 8:31:27 PM "How is the Prince finding people accused of being rakshasa? Is it only in response to the bounty or have other means been found?" Nira is curious as to whether there is a way the Tide might adopt.
Antimagic with both forbiddance and true-seeing is a very powerful combination. She can see how it would be useful to escort any accused through it. Nira puts her mind to how it could potentially be bypassed. "The forbiddance spell wouldn't necessarily stop them, but would hurt them. The True Seeing would see through any magical disguises - illusions or polymorph spells. The anti-magic field would temporarily suppress all magical effects. The only way I can think of to try and sneak through would be to use some mundane disguises. A very talented artist could make them appear to be any race." she considers this a moment "I'd imagine anyone who went to the trouble to set up so many magical means of detection would also have some very perceptive people checking for disguises though"
Ramirez (BrianZ) AC30/19/23 HP78/122 CMD32 Monday August 22nd, 2022 9:41:17 PM Well it certainly appears that the Houses and the Prince have been rather ...thorough in rooting out Rakshasa.
An exchange of information sounds quite good. I hope this peaceful agreement will continue.
Ramirez is again left wondering, this time on just how zealous the rooting out of outsiders has become?
Bigger Fish to Fry d20+23=25 ; Tuesday August 23rd, 2022 3:04:55 AM
Desdichado checks with the Tide magicians on the effectiveness of the steps described. The paladin has a sudden insight: the gods or the Jericho or whatever have known about the rakshasa since Desdichado and Sarge was sent to Dirt City! (ooc: DM reveal!) Danko leans dramatically and gives his catchphrase. Hmerrin agrees there is nothing wrong with a bit of information exchange. Nira also agrees it could work, especially with some sharp-eyed thief-catchers. Ramierez is… diplomatic in his thoughts. ………….
The heroes seem to come away from the meeting with three themes. First, the truthful information exchange should continue. Second, the ‘rakshasa rooting’ seems systematic at the leadership levels, but much more rumor and innuendo otherwise. (ooc: note, ‘Outsider’ refers to the monster type, not anyone not of Dirt City). And third, the heroes have other fish to fry.
Darmious Foxx declines to elaborate, and, since our heroes have agreed future meetings are a good thing, the Prince’s man feels comfortable enough to make his slow and deliberate way to the exit. Outside the House doors, he blends skillfully into the shadows and is gone. Perception DC25 Highlight to display spoiler: {Foxx climbed and hopped the wall over Cinzi’s house. }
With Foxx gone and their next lead on rakshasa going to Plateau City, the heroes can set about planning 1. How to get to Plateau City. 2. Once there, how to find out where, how, and who the caravans (who were not rakshasa, in on it, nor dominated) from the Emerald Kingdom linked up with the rakshasa in Plateau City under the very nose of some of the most powerful people in the entire Wold!
Desdichado watches Darmious jump over the wall. "Uh...if he can leave that way, someone can also get in that way. We should look into having that fixed."
Thinking of ways to get to Plateau City, he wonders if teleportation might work? "Danko, have you been to Plateau City before?" Otherwise, going part way by ship might be fastest, although he doesn't relish another boat trip.
"We should probably look through these ledgers we collected some more and see if there's anything useful about the caravans," he adds.
He has a sudden thought. "Oh, what about our gnome friends in the mine? Is there a way to get them out now? I wonder if their contract with the kolyrut was with the Emerald City rakshasa."
Hmerrin (MikeK)(HP 152/178 AC:32 T:18 FF:27 CMD:35) Tuesday August 23rd, 2022 3:35:50 PM
Hmerrin winces at the mention of the gnomes. He had totally forgotten about them. "We can teleport to the mine," he answers Dez. "And either kill Korlis and company a few more times, or just tell the gnomes its time to go."
"Plateau City - anybody got one of them Wind Walk spells?"
"As for what happens once we get there, I got no idea. Let's start with the gnomes, then read the ledgers again. Otherwise, I guess we mosey about town until Gaffer can match the view he saw in the vision. Or we get jumped by the bad guys."
Danko Pureheart (Yves) -- AC 24 -- CMD 36 -- HP 119/119 Tuesday August 23rd, 2022 5:41:02 PM
ooc> It would make sense that Danko would have been to Plateau City before being that it's a major city. DM ?? 1300 miles per teleport with four medium char and their gear.
Danko also sees the jumps and looks on with admiration.
" I can think of a few ways to fix that " He says...
Ramirez (BrianZ) AC30/19/23 HP78/122 CMD32 Tuesday August 23rd, 2022 6:30:08 PM I don't have wind walk, but I do have shadow walk. It's not an exact transport like teleport, but it should get us there in 2 or 3 days. maybe not the safest way to travel, but it can get us there.
But I agree we need to see to the gnomes first.
RobC - Nira Wynvyre -- AC 29/15/25 -- CMD 23 -- HP 122/122 -- DarkVision/ArcaneSight/SeeInvis Tuesday August 23rd, 2022 8:50:22 PM "If we defeat the kolyrut again, I could cast disintegrate on the remains. That should work. Another method would be to plane shift the remains somewhere. Either way, now that we know they're there we can plan for how to remove them"
Nira also has a teleport spell prepared.
Gaffer - Courtney - HP: 149/149 AC: 27(T:18/FF:22) CMD:35) Tuesday August 23rd, 2022 9:03:30 PM "If I spend some time with a map I should be able to get us very close with a Transport Via Plants, and I do have Wind Walker as well. Or at least I will have both of these ready tomorrow.." Gaffer offer his own transport options to the group. "But yes, the gnomes first thing tomorrow sounds like a good plan."
Transportation and Information. Co-DM SteveK Wednesday August 24th, 2022 5:41:33 AM
Discussion centers on transportation options and information options.
Transportation. It turns out that everyone except Desdichado and Hmerrin have magical means to transport the entire group long distances. Danko and Nira can Teleport, Ramierez can Shadow Walk, and Gaffer can (when not in the Scab) Transport via Plants. Danko and Desdichado have also both been to the greatest city in the Wold, so they can easily overcome that obstacle. There really is no need to sail or walk anymore!
Information. Where to get information boils down to looking over all the ledgers they collected from Greenleaf’s ‘bungalow’ (Boring!), or popping over to the gnome mines to free the gnomes from the contract being enforced by the three Kolyaruts headed by Korlis. The heroes recall they found out: 1. Korlis and his team was there to enforce the contract signed by the gnomes and rakshasa. There was no interest or tolerance to reexamine the contract or the signing circumstances, only that it was and the sides were holding up their ends. 2. The gnomes were not interested in leaving because their clan bargain binds them doing the mine work, regardless of the state of the above guard. 3. The gnomes had no contact with the un-dominated merchants who were moving the goods from the mine to the warehouse in the city of Karri in the Emerald Kingdom. ………………..
Ooc: If the heroes go to the mine, your kindly DM will need to know who cast which spell to get them there to ensure that spell slot was used…
(The heroes have the initiative.)
Ramirez (BrianZ) AC30/19/23 HP78/122 CMD32 Wednesday August 24th, 2022 5:08:27 PM The kolyaruts are there to enforce a contract, which may still be in place until the rest of the rakshasa leaders are dealt with. So what can we do for them?
Ramirez still thinks the team should visit the gnomes and offers his transport spell if interested.
Hmerrin (MikeK)(HP 152/178 AC:32 T:18 FF:27 CMD:35) Wednesday August 24th, 2022 6:43:32 PM
Hmerrin recalls some of the comments by the gnomes.
"The kolyaruts we'd just have to deal with. But, as I recall, the gnomes weren't interested in leaving regardless, and they had no actual contact with anyone on the surface. I'm guessing its a dead end.
Which leaves..." he looks at the ledgers unhappily. "Reading."
The young man grabs a tome, and starts working his way through it.
Desdichado looks through the documents as well, hoping there will be something helpful.
"I'm sure the gnomes will be okay. Mostly I was worried that they'd still be down there if the contract was with the Emerald City rakshasa. I suppose they seemed happy enough down there for now."
Gaffer - Courtney - HP: 149/149 AC: 27(T:18/FF:22) CMD:35) Wednesday August 24th, 2022 8:29:06 PM
It sounds like Danko can handle teleporting the group over to the city but Gaffer stills spends some time with a map so he knows the surrounding area.
The party haven't been back in a while and will be leaving shortly, so he makes a point to go around their courtyard residents and ask if there is anything they need from the Tide before they leave.
RobC - Nira Wynvyre -- AC 29/15/25 -- CMD 23 -- HP 122/122 -- DarkVision/ArcaneSight/SeeInvis Wednesday August 24th, 2022 8:54:04 PM
It looks like Nira is the only one rubbing her hands together in glee at the thought of reading through documents. So much information!
She also wonders about visiting the local WLA outpost and see if they have heard any rumours. She decides it's worth a shot.
"Don't read through everything without me" she asks "I'm just going to check the WLA. Anyone want to come along?"
Nira hasn't been to Dirt City before, so asks for directions before she goes.
Leads. Co-DM SteveK Thursday August 25th, 2022 3:09:50 AM
Ramirez still thinks the team should visit the gnomes, but there doesn’t otherwise seem to be further interest.
Gaffer spends time with a map and general description of Plateau City and realizes the place is huge; easily six times the size of Dirt City! Plateau City is divided into 18 areas called Quarters, and each has its own architecture and ‘personality’. Built on both banks of a bend of the Endless River, Plateau City is the chief residence of the Woldian League of Adventurers, Star Mages Guild, and each main Temple of the Woldian gods. Finding the rakshasa is going to be like looking for a specific grain of sand on a beach!
Nira looks for directions to the WLA, and the long-time Tide members give her another shock: the WLA doesn’t officially exist in the City of Thieves! Hmerrin is a member, however, and knows how to contact the hidden WLA outpost. They drop in on Brother Elthorn at the small temple of Ffloy and leave a message. Soon enough, a Grubber boy drops off a message at Tide House with directions to a particular cul-de-sac in the City Below. The cul-de-sac contains a muddy sack that has a Refuge spell that transports the WLA members to the secret WLA outpost and met by Walker, a grizzled human in non-descript traveler’s gear. ”We were too much a target when we had a shingle out on the road like any merchant. Got the previous outpost raided and everyone killed. So we are more … careful… now. We change the entrance process and location every time.”
Any hero visiting the WLA can learn the WLA hasn’t been able to find traces of rakshasa in Plateau City, but they have a young team in the Nightmare Quarter that they have their eyes on. Paige Potter and Rhys Saelion are both members of the WLA. They may have local contacts…
Hmerrin and Desdichado look through ledgers reluctantly, Nira with great enthusiasm. And so it is little surprise that the small elf-girl is the first to find a lead! Greenleaf only used unmagiked merchants, and not always the same one, but they all went to the same place: Guild Company Limited. Hardly the most descriptive name! …………..
(The heroes have the initiative.)
Desdichado (Ryan) [HP:198/198; AC:32/15/30 - CMD 34] Thursday August 25th, 2022 5:42:57 AM
"Right then, we've got some names, we've got a potential location, we've got travel options - shall we be off, then?"
Danko Pureheart (Yves) -- AC 24 -- CMD 36 -- HP 119/119 Thursday August 25th, 2022 6:17:18 AM
Danko agrees with Des
" Air Danko is ready when the rest of you are. Teleport anyone? "
Ramirez (BrianZ) AC30/19/23 HP78/122 CMD32 Thursday August 25th, 2022 4:55:28 PM Do we have anything to take care of before we leave? Maybe we should make a few appearances so people know we are in town. That way the deception can be kept up if needed that we are around.
Hmerrin (MikeK)(HP 152/178 AC:32 T:18 FF:27 CMD:35) Thursday August 25th, 2022 5:47:54 PM
Hmerrin shrugs at Ramirez' question. "Nira and I were just at the WLA, and Danko's been doing that dragon shifting deal of his all over town. I'd say we're good."
He gets his gear together, and meets up with the team.
"Danko, can you put us in the Nightmare Quarter? Might as well start with our WLA people."
Danko Pureheart (Yves) -- AC 24 -- CMD 36 -- HP 119/119 d100=16 ; Thursday August 25th, 2022 8:05:29 PM
" Shouldn't be a problem " He responds to Hmerrin.
" Who's gonna be the four going with me for the first trip? "
--------------- Success role 16 - On target
Gaffer - Courtney - HP: 149/149 AC: 27(T:18/FF:22) CMD:35) Thursday August 25th, 2022 9:36:15 PM
Gaffer raises a hand to join the first trip. "Let's go, and hope not everyone we meet today will be a Rakshasa."
RobC - Nira Wynvyre -- AC 29/15/25 -- CMD 23 -- HP 122/122 -- DarkVision/ArcaneSight/SeeInvis Thursday August 25th, 2022 11:53:34 PM
Nira is ready to go. "I've got a teleport spell prepared as well, Danko. Shall we share the load? Cast one each and get there in one trip?"
She places one of the ledgers into her haversack to take with her. Just in case it comes in handy.
She still isn't quite sure what to do with the stuffed unicorn.
New Elenna! Co-DM SteveK Friday August 26th, 2022 2:20:40 AM
Desdichado, Gaffer, and Danko are ready to go: The Tide has names and a potential location!
Ramierez asks if more face-showing would be appropriate, but Hmerrin points out there has been a lot in the two weeks the team has been in Dirt City. From Foxx’s visit, the Tide know the Prince was not fooled by the deception. And with flying dragons and walking the Moon Quarter and the streets to the Temple of Wardd and Danko’s contest on how many bars he can drink people under the table…
Nira places one of the ledgers into her haversack, just in case. She thinks about the stuffed unicorn, but it was one of the things that had a funeral pyre in Greenleaf’s boudoir (thank goodness!)
Nira and Danko set up the entrance to the Temple of Gargul as the meeting point for the teleports. The centerpiece of the Nightmare Quarter looms over the rest of the district in a decidedly macabre tone! Two teleport spells: three, two, one… ………………
And The Tide appear, but not in Plateau City! A fortress town guards a bridge across a good-sized river. (Know Geography DC15 Highlight to display spoiler: { This is Edenmoor, part of the kingdom of New Elenna. It is a defensive position and preparation area for caravans; either overland towards Izen or upriver to the Culverwood.} )
The local guardsmen apologize for the mis-direction of teleportation magic, especially after introductions happen (Edenmoor has heard of The Tide from Dirt City!). New Elenna has implemented a temporary moratorium of magical entrance into the kingdom. Although the kingdom can’t completely stop non-official travel, they are ensuring a better record than before. ”Going all the way to Plateau City? You will need custom stamps for each town on your way, or you will have trouble getting cooperation in the City. At least-wise, from those law-abiding.” (Know Local DC 15 Highlight to display spoiler: { Those in the know understand that this is to curtail Rakshasa activity.}
There is nothing to do for The Tide other than get their stamps, and begin the walk to Plateau City, stopping off at each town for another set of seals.
The first look at New Elenna (for most), the kingdom seems prosperous and well- defended. The road continues amid farm and orchard with the imposing cliffs of the First Plateau getting closer and closer. Soon enough, the heroes arrive at Huxwell. Here the cliffs are 5000’ high! The town of Huxwell rests at the bottom and the Niffwig fortress and town loom above. To ascend, The Tide gets a ride up on a “raft” inside the Huxwell fort, which only takes an hour. Each ‘raft” is between 30-50’ square and have thick 6”-12” ropes on each corner and are lifted, and has a mix of trade materials, wagons, and people along with guards on each raft to protect the passengers. Adventurers travel free as they are added protection for the trip. By law, there are no “trails” up and down. At least no official ones. This dates back to the early days when Aisildur was trying to take over the entire peninsula.
Ramirez (BrianZ) AC30/19/23 HP78/122 CMD32 d20+16=19 ; d20+16=21 ; Friday August 26th, 2022 6:13:44 PM
Ramirez recognizes the area, and gives a few minor details about Edenmoor. He thanks the guard for the information.
It looks like those stamps will be a good idea. Should prevent some problems for us in the City. Maybe it's a good thing the teleport brought us here first?
Danko Pureheart (Yves) -- AC 24 -- CMD 36 -- HP 119/119 Friday August 26th, 2022 7:48:36 PM
" What a revolting development this is! "
Hmerrin (MikeK)(HP 152/178 AC:32 T:18 FF:27 CMD:35) d20+10=30 ; Saturday August 27th, 2022 1:48:29 PM
Ramirez explains where they popped up, and Hmerrin figures out for himself the need for stamps from each town. [Know Local 30}
As they walk the road to Huxwell, he explains. "That stamp thing is likley to curtail rakshasa activity. These guys are already on it. I'm guessing Green Eyes doesn't go out much."
Getting hauled up the side of really high cliff face on a "raft" is not a favorite experience. "Sweet Alemi, that's a long way down," he mutters, more than once, on the trip up.
Getting on solid ground in Niffwig is a relief. "Well, I get the defensive scheme," he sighs reluctantly. "Its impressive. It really is. But, I sure wish we didn't have to deal with it."
Desdichado (Ryan) [HP:198/198; AC:32/15/30 - CMD 34] Saturday August 27th, 2022 5:17:01 PM
Desdichado thanks the guardsmen for the information, and appreciates Hmerrin's information about why it's being done. "Thank you all. You can't be too careful these days."
He tries to stand as still as possible while on the raft, afraid his movements might tip everything over!
Once up top, and catching his bearings, he looks for sign posts or asks for directions on the best road to take to get to Plateau City from here.
RobC - Nira Wynvyre -- AC 29/15/25 -- CMD 23 -- HP 122/122 -- DarkVision/ArcaneSight/SeeInvis Sunday August 28th, 2022 11:02:20 PM
Nira's first reaction is to think that she's messed up. She's teleported to the wrong destination. She looks about and sees Danko and quickly realises it wasn't her fault if he's also teleported here. The guards explanation then confirms it.
Her flight spell is still active (even if she's just walking), and she has her feather fall spell on hand too. For someone who's regularly in the air she does have a real fear of falling. With those measures in place though it allows her to relax and enjoy the view as the raft takes them up the cliff.
"Nice views from up here"
Magically Safe Roads only work when… Co-DM SteveK Monday August 29th, 2022 3:55:31 AM
Danko is a little embarrassed he teleported wrong, but the guards are quick to point out it wasn’t his magic, but New Elanna’s magic that brought them to Edenmoor. Hmerrin and Ramierez are philosophic, might as well collect stamps and see the kingdom!
At the top of the “raft” ride is Niffwig. The Tide gets another stamp and, after a walk through the small fortress town, can gaze out on the First Plateau. The First Plateau has cultivated forests, farmlands, and Teucri magic roads! The roads circle the first plateau and allow travelers to move at incredible speeds: any traveler can arrive at any First Plateau location in four hours or less. The heroes walk for only two hours before they arrive at Zidiac (below the 2nd Plateau) and Baenville (on top). Like Huxwell and Niffwig, the route to the plateau above is by “raft”. A friendly guard provides a Zidiac stamp at the bottom, and another gives a Baenville seal at the top where the Tide can have lunch.
The Baenville guards explain to travelers that the major roads on the Second Plateau are magically safe: no evil act can occur on the road. This is useful because off-road is dangerous, and not only because of the MonsterPreserve! (See Wikipedia Geography for more information) The heroes travel generally south. They leave Baenville and pass through Tincrow, skirt Lake Wellogy, and follow the Brinkwater River from Brinkwater towards Middleton and Hoomwix. It is after the heroes have left the town of Brinkwater far behind that they hear a cry for help. Ahead of them is a stopped caravan, and the people are looking at a clearing. A young gnome ran after his mule and is now trapped by a monster!
Know Engineering DC 15 Highlight to display spoiler: { This stretch of road has fallen into disrepair. A rapair crew and mage is needed to repair it! }.
The mule is being eaten, and the caravan master will say “Young Wil managed to get into ahole when the beast arrived, but his poor Honey wasn’t so lucky. And soon it will be Wil’s turn…”
Standing 20’ tall in the clearing is a bizarre creature with three twisted feline legs, a dense body resembling jungle undergrowth, clawed arms like those of a praying mantis, and a head resembling a cross between a monstrous spider's head and a jungle orchid!
……………
Know Nature DC 27 Highlight to display spoiler: { The huge creature is from the Fey: a Tunche! Strong and venomous, it can also control the plants around it. Like other fey, it is affected by Cold Iron. } Know Nature DC 32 Highlight to display spoiler: { It has Damage Resistance 15 bypassed by Slashing Cold Iron only} Know Nature DC 37 Highlight to display spoiler: {The Tunche is intelligent and has a constant ability to speak any language (i.e. Constant Tongues spell) }
"That's new," Hmerrin declares, looking at the creature. "Well, I haven't done anything really stupid in a while, so..."
The fighter is off, pulling out his axes and crossing the field at a serious clip, given he's fully armored. If he gets to where he want to, he slams his battleaxe into the thingy.
-------- Double move (80') Charge to K15, pulling axes (quick draw). AC 34 v AoO (mobility). Charge ac penalty included. Atk hits ac42 for 19 hp damage.
Desdichado (Ryan) [HP:198/198; AC:32/15/30 - CMD 34] Monday August 29th, 2022 2:51:45 PM
Desdichado is completely bewildered at the bizarre creature and follows Hmerrin's lead to attack.
Double-move (60 ft) towards the creature.
(OOC: I don't think I received the map via email.)
Looks like the magic road is damaged. And I dont know what that is but it doesnt seem too friendly, and that gnome is in trouble.
Ramirez retrieves his bow and fires a shot at the creature and hopefully distract it from the gnome.
hit AC 27, 10dmg
Danko Pureheart (Yves) -- AC 24 -- CMD 36 -- HP 119/119 Monday August 29th, 2022 4:44:05 PM
Danko shurgs and fires off a lightning bolt at the creature.
" Hope no one yells at me this time.. let the shenanigans begin! "
-------------
Maximized lightning bolt target is I16 73 points of damage.
Gaffer - Courtney - HP: 149/149 AC: 27(T:18/FF:22) CMD:35) d20+23=38 ; 3d6+16=28 ; Monday August 29th, 2022 7:22:56 PM "It's a fey! Intelligent, venemous, plant manipulating and only really hurt by Cold Iron, don't take it lightly!" Gaffer calls out to the others as he runs closer to the fight. He tries to think whether Tunche would normally be in the area.
Seeing the young one in danger, he doesn't hold back, leveling a blackening finger at the Tunche and sending out a bolt of necrotic energy.
----- Know Nature: 38 Move to O11 Cast Finger of Death: DC 26 Fortitude check: 160 Damage on a failure, 28 on a success.
RobC - Nira Wynvyre -- AC 29/15/25 -- CMD 23 -- HP 122/122 -- DarkVision/ArcaneSight/SeeInvis Monday August 29th, 2022 7:38:46 PM
Nira concurs with the assessments the group has provided. Since it's intelligent and can speak any language, she holds her ground and tries diplomacy first. There's no need to attack everything on sight. She calls out to the fey:
"Could you stop eating that donkey please? We'd prefer not to kill you for it. You're clearly outnumbered now, so the smart thing would be to retreat while you can. We'll hold off our attacks if you do"
----------- Free: Call out to the fey.
Tunche! Rd 2. Co-DM SteveK d20+22=25 ; d20+22=28 ; d20+19=26 ; d20+15=27 ; d20+15=29 ; Tuesday August 30th, 2022 2:45:15 AM
Hmerrin doesn’t hesitate, charging across the barrier and verge! The Tunche strikes out with a claw, missing, before the young warrior lands with an axe. Hmerrin’s axe passes most of the way through the creature, leaving only a small cut! It must have Damage Resistance!
Desdichado is completely bewildered at the bizarre creature and follows Hmerrin's lead to attack. The paladin gets close (ooc: to L14. Sorry, I didn’t include you in the map email. O-o), but not all the way across the sward, and discovers the Tunche also have Combat Reflexes! Another claw swipes at Dez, also missing.
Ramirez notes the magic road is damaged. He retrieves his bow and fires a shot at the creature that bounces off its super dense body.
Danko shurgs and fires off a lightning bolt at the creature, displaying his usual bravado and battlecry. But the creature dodges the entire strike! It must also have Evasion!
Gaffer calls out knowledge to help The Tide in the confrontation. Seeing the young one in danger, he doesn't hold back, leveling a necrotic energy bolt that makes the spider eyes wince, but the Tunche withstands the negative energies.
Nira concurs with the assessments the group has provided. Since it's intelligent and can speak any language, she tries to reason with the Fey.
…………… The Tunche starts a sing-song in Common, Fey, Alko, Elf, and Gnome languages: all at the same time. It is irritating, but not a magical effect. :-) ”Inchworm, measuring the marigolds. Come into my parlor, said the spider to the fly..” It doesn’t appear to be listening to reason.
And then, the huge fey defensively casts a spell! Instantly, a huge hedge of thorns grows in a line, encasing the Tunche and all of The Tide! In an instant, each hero is cut off from seeing anything except brambles and the huge, sharp, pointy thorns! (ooc: with team telepathy and amazing Know Arcana skills, it is easy for everyone to know this is a Wall of Thorns spell). The Tunche then steps away from Hmerrin, not drawing an AOO and is lost among the brambles.
The heroes take damage depending on their AC25 not including dex and dodge bonuses. (Damage: Danko 3, Dez 0, Gaffer 2, Hmerrin 0, Nira 7, Rameriez, 2)
Further, every hero is trapped and unable to move unless they either have magic in place (ex: Pass Without Trace, Freedom of Movement) or can succeed on a Strength check DC 20 to move 5 feet!
Miraculously, the caravan master is NOT in the thorns. So too is Young Wil: because he was in a hole, the thorns grow over his hiding space. Desdichado can hear the child call out: ”I’m OK, mister!”
……………. Tunche AC 31 Dam 32
Map by Email
RobC - Nira Wynvyre -- AC 29/15/25 -- CMD 23 -- HP 115/122 -- DarkVision/ArcaneSight/SeeInvis d20+16=25 ; Tuesday August 30th, 2022 4:13:48 AM
Nira is pleased that she tried diplomacy first. Now she won't feel bad at having to cut this fey down to size.
She activates her Freedom of Movement contingency spell by thinking the triggering phrase: "Help! I'm stuck!". With her magical freedom she now flies 25ft upwards and free of the thorns.
The best thing she can do to help the party is dispel the wall. She tries but it's not her best effort. That last remaining thorn stuck in her palm was distracting. Yeah, that was it.
"Move! Move! Move!" she yells in the direction of the wagons. It would be best they made their way to safety.
------------- Free: Activate Contingency spell (Freedom of Movement) Move: Fly 25ft upwards Standard: Cast Dispel Magic. Dispel check: 25 likely a miss
Tunche! Rd 2. Co-DM SteveK Tuesday August 30th, 2022 12:20:57 PM
Addendum. Dispel Check for Tunche magic is 31.
Desdichado struggles against the thorns, but they are so thick he has no success.
He calls out to the boy. "You'll be okay, Wil! Just wait tight, we'll have you out of this jam soon."
Hmerrin (MikeK)(HP 192/192 AC:32 T:20 FF:26 CMD:40) d20+6=16 ; Tuesday August 30th, 2022 2:29:29 PM
Hmerrin also struggles to move, without success. [Str 16]
"Rutabega," he mutters irritably.
Danko Pureheart (Yves) -- AC 24 -- CMD 36 -- HP 119/119 Tuesday August 30th, 2022 3:52:49 PM
“ Forsooth! I have an idea!”
Danko tries to make contact with Ramirez and Nira before uttering the magical phrase ..
“Banff!”
… and teleporting away …
And then reappears behind one of the wagons
——- Teleport to U19. Current HP 116
Gaffer - Courtney - HP: 146/149 AC: 27(T:18/FF:22) CMD:35) Tuesday August 30th, 2022 7:40:51 PM
Gaffer finds himself surrounded by the thorns but thankfully the walls before him part slightly so that he can slip out quickly. As he moves, he begins casting, a summoning spell to draw a Cloud Giant to the parties aid.
"Shout if you catch sight of it" he suggests to the group.
----- Druid's Woodland Stride to move through Wall of Thorns normally.(?) Move to O13 Summon Nature's Ally VIII - Cloud Giant, Against the thorns at M18
Ramirez (BrianZ) AC30/19/23 HP122/122 CMD32 Tuesday August 30th, 2022 8:13:19 PM
Ramirez starts casting a spell, hopefully it will help get him and the rest of the Tide out of these thorns.
Actions: casting summon monster
Tunche! Rd 3. (Oh, that hurt!). Co-DM SteveK d20+22=34 ; d20+22=30 ; d20+22=42 ; d20+22=36 ; d20+22=35 ; d20+22=35 ; 3d6+11=20 ; 3d6+11=21 ; 3d6+11=22 ; 3d6+11=24 ; 3d6+16=25 ; 2d8+11=18 ; Wednesday August 31st, 2022 2:04:19 AM
(ooc: Wall of Thorns. Creatures in a wall of thorns can remain motionless to avoid damage. Creatures are not grappled or have other condition to impede movement, defense, or attack; except that any movement causes damage as described last post. Forcing through the thorns takes damage as last post and requires DC20 Strength check to move 5 feet +5 feet for every 5 points above 20.)
Nira her conscience appeased, activates her contingency Freedom of Movement and flies 25’ up out of the thorns. She can describe the battlefield, where most of the thorns are 10’ tall, but where the Tunche was is 20’ tall, which is completely concealing the monster. Nira gives direction to the caravaneers, and tries to dispel the thorns without success.
Desdichado struggles against the thorns, but they are so thick he has no success.
Hmerrin also struggles to move, without success.
Danko has an idea. Nira is already gone, but Ramierez is in reach. Danko takes 3 damage and has to concentrate to cast his spell, but he succeeds and the two heroes *bamph* to a clear space along the road. (Concentrate +17 vs DC18)
Gaffer, a druid, has little problem in slipping out of the magical thorns, then begins to summon a Cloud Giant to come to the party’s aid. (ooc: summon is a full round casting time. Because Gaffer moved first, the Cloud Giant will arrive at the end of next round, not the beginning, and will not be able to act.)
Ramirez also starts casting a summon monster spell, for it to arrive at the beginning of next round
………….. The thorns are so thick and high that it blocks all line of sight to the Tunche: no one knows where it is!
Well, except for Hmerrin. Hemmed in as the young man is by the thorns, he can’t see the huge monster, but the creature can obviously locate Hmerrin. What’s more, the Tunche seems unimpeded by the thorns as it reaches through to rend at the armored hero! ”Little Miss Muffet sat on a tuffet eating her curds and whey…”
Four praying mantis claws and spider mandibles inside a beautiful orchid slide through the thorns. Three claws strike Hmerrin, one critically. The Tunche rends the young fighter, and to cap it off, bites hard! Hmerrin takes 130 damage AND feels poison coursing through the bite. (Fort DC 29;frequency 1/round for 6 rounds; effect 1d4 Con and 1d4 Wis plus nauseated for 1 round; cure 2 consecutive saves)
What is worse for Hmerrin is, hemmed in by the thorns, he can’t reach the Tunche to fight back!
The caravaneers listen to Nira and, belatedly, jump off the wagons and take scant cover. The horses in harness neigh and roll their eyes.
……………. Tunche AC 31 Dam 32
Map by Email
RobC - Nira Wynvyre -- AC 29/15/25 -- CMD 23 -- HP 115/122 -- DarkVision/ArcaneSight/SeeInvis d20+16=34 ; Wednesday August 31st, 2022 2:33:33 AM
Nira tries once again to dispel the wall of thorns. Now that she's had a chance to survey the area a little better she finds she's able to concentrate a bit harder on her spell. This time she is successful with her spell.
------------- Standard: Cast Dispel Magic on the Wall of Thorns. Dispel check vs DC31: 34=Pass!
DM Note. The Tunche is 5’ away from Hmerrin!
Danko Pureheart (Yves) -- AC 24 -- CMD 36 -- HP 113/119 Wednesday August 31st, 2022 3:50:21 PM
Seeking to save Hemmi, Danko uses a trusty wall of force to seperate his friends from the ennemi,
With a magical "WHOAZZA" he casts
If successful
" Grab the boy and rush back fellas! "
-------------- Wall of force across J11 to J22 and 25 feet high,
Hmerrin (MikeK)(HP 62/192 AC:32 T:20 FF:26 CMD:40) d20+18=30 ; Wednesday August 31st, 2022 4:43:47 PM
[Fort Save 30 - save]
Hmerrin gets shredded. The Wall of Thorns falls away to reveal a seriously blooded fighter. The man can feel the poison in his system. He manages to fight it off, and then activates his tattoo to keep it at bay a bit longer.
"Time to run, Wil. Get moving!" he calls out.
He retreats a little, making sure he's between Big Fey Al and the kid the whole time.
More fun news. It's poisonous, he mentally informs his group.
------- Activate Brahmah Tattoo - Delay Poison Move toward road, either 30' to Q15 or 10' in front of Wil, whichever is shorter. AC 36 vs AoO
In Effect Delay Poison - 3 hours - Temporarily Immune to Poison.
Desdichado (Ryan) [HP:198/198; AC:32/15/30 - CMD 34] d20+6=15 ; Wednesday August 31st, 2022 6:44:00 PM
Desdichado helps pull Wil out of the hole (STR check = 15, if needed) and then moves back to M:12.
Gaffer - Courtney - HP: 146/149 AC: 27(T:18/FF:22) CMD:35) Wednesday August 31st, 2022 8:04:18 PM
Gaffer finishes his summoning as he calls to the group. "We'll still need to take the creature down since the guarding is damaged. You alright in there Hmerrin?"
----- Summon Nature's Ally VIII - Cloud Giant, next to the Tunche
Thanks Danko Concentrating on the spell, Ramirez completes it and summons a fire elemental. With the thorns gone, he sends it at the creature instead.
fire elemental attack on creature: hit AC 19, 35(nat 20) crit check = 24 damage 9 plus burn(burn (2d6, reflex save DC 18 or catch fire)
used: spells: 0/1 6th level remaining
Tactical Withdraw. Co-DM SteveK Thursday September 1st, 2022 4:23:12 AM
Nira tries again, this time dispelling the Wall of Thorns. It reveals the Tunche is 5’ away from Hmerrin!
Danko uses his trusty Wall of Force spell to manage the battlefield, seperatin his friends from the monster.
Hmerrin feels shredded and poisoned, activating his delay poison tattoo. Its time to run, and the bloodied fighter still ensures he is between Big Fey Al and the kid. (he withdraws to O15.)
Desdichado helps pull Wil out of the hole and moves back to the road (he’s able to get to P14).
Gaffer finishes his summoning and a Cloud Giant appears next to the Tunche!
Ramirez also brings help, a large Fire Elemental, sending it against the weird fey, striking it once.
…….. The Tunche tries to follow Hmerrin, but is blocked by Danko’s Wall, and soon flanked by a Cloud Giant and Fire Elemental. It clicks its mandibles in frustration, then another Wall of Thorns completely obscures the huge fey! The heroes can hear it sing-songing: ”Ladybug, ladybug fly away home: your house is on fire, your children will burn!”
It takes a minute as the two summoned creatures romp around the new Wall of Thorns before the heroes realize the Tunche must have retreated into the woods. Wil is safe and it looks like back-up is arriving from up the road.
The Caravan Master is very appreciative of the heroes rescue of Wil, and offers his most prized possession: a Carpet of Flying 10x10 (60,000gp = 10,000gp per person or 5,000gp if sold). Wil, for his part, looks like he has learned a life-changing lesson about going off-road even for a super prize! Wil offers the heroes the very pretty Iris that he picked right before the Monster showed up.
From behind the heroes and walking up the road is a road repair team, headed by a mage and engineer. They will ensure the road is fixed once more.
Both the Caravan Master and the road crew try and dissuade the heroes from going after the Tunche: it has gone back into the Monster Preserve and people on the road will be safe once the road is repaired. It seems there is a strong political faction in New Elenna. By law, a monster is ‘safe’ if inside the Monster Preserve unless there is special permission from the Lord Mayor of Plateau City.
If the heroes really want to take care of the Tunche, they should go to Plateau City and get a special hunting license. Yep, that’s the best way to go about it!
END COMBAT
Danko Pureheart (Yves) -- AC 24 -- CMD 36 -- HP 113/119 Thursday September 1st, 2022 11:35:50 AM
Danko is in no hurry to take that beast on again.
Desdichado takes some time to heal Hmerrin. "Let's get out of here and be on our way. No way to I want to go hunting that thing."
Hmerrin (MikeK)(HP 164/192 AC:32 T:20 FF:26 CMD:40) d20+18=21 ; Thursday September 1st, 2022 3:46:51 PM Fort save 21. Fail.
Hmerrin sits down, and spits out a mouthful of blood as Dez tends to him.
"Don't know why y'all think I wanna go after him," he chuckles "He's just fine way over there."
The fighter rises, and accepts the gifts on behalf of the Tide.
Then he glances at Nira. "You got something that cures poisoning? If not, I got some antitoxin that should help me kick it before this spell wears off."
Hmerrin continues after the caravan.
------ If no one in the group can heal Hmerrin, he'll drink a vial of antitoxin, which gives a +5 bonus v poison. That makes his Fort save +23, and he statistically should come up with two consecutive DC29 rolls in the next three hours.
Desdichado (Ryan) [HP:198/198; AC:32/15/30 - CMD 34] Thursday September 1st, 2022 4:06:04 PM
(OOC: Desdichado has an open spell slot that could be used for Neutralize Poison if no one has any better option. But he's unlikely to beat a 29 DC with his caster level.)
RobC - Nira Wynvyre -- AC 29/15/25 -- CMD 23 -- HP 115/122 -- DarkVision/ArcaneSight/SeeInvis Thursday September 1st, 2022 7:14:11 PM
Nira shakes her head. "Sorry. Poison is one of those things I can't easily cure. I could cast a Heal spell, but it's a pretty powerful spell and I've always needed more of them when we get into a fight. I might be able to help you with the antitoxin though."
She rubs Hmerrin's back as he takes the vial.
---------------- Standard: Use Bit-of-Luck ability to allow Hmerrin to roll his d20s twice and take the better results
Gaffer - Courtney - HP: 146/149 AC: 27(T:18/FF:22) CMD:35) Thursday September 1st, 2022 7:58:35 PM
Gaffer lets go of the magic holding the giant and settles back in step with the others as the set off again.
He has a moment of reflection that he's gotten so used to fighting Rakshasa that he forgot to consider other types of threats. He takes a second to cast himself an extended Barkskin for the next 5 hours.
"I don't have anything for poison, but I'll make sure to prepare it for tomorrow. If you want to rest for a bit I can get a Treant to carry you for the rest of the day!"
Ramirez (BrianZ) AC30/19/23 HP122/122 CMD32 Thursday September 1st, 2022 8:15:28 PM I wonder how the road got damaged. Maybe that's something we'll need to look into later.
Ramirez casts delay poison on Hmerrin, sometimes a poison will wear off before the spell does.
Welcome to Plateau City! Co-DM SteveK Friday September 2nd, 2022 8:11:15 AM
No one is eager to go after the Tunche. A meeting engagement to rescue young Wil was bad enough: no one wants to hunt that thing in the forests or its den!
Hmerrin is mostly healed. The Paladin provides 3 Lay of Hands (for 102 hp), gives a Bit-of-Luck, and the fighter drinks his anti-toxin, which pretty much guarantees he is able to get 2 consecutive Fort DC29 saves sometimes in the next four hours. The Tunche’s poison passes without damage.
Gaffer considers how they have gotten so used to fighting Rakshasa, they are less prepared for other threats. A difficulty the druid does not intend to replicate.
Ramirez casts delay poison on Hmerrin, but as Hmerrin already activated his delay poison tattoo and the magic doesn’t stack, nothing happens other than the loss of the spell. (The road crew tells Ramirez that breaks occasionally happen; usually nothing sinister about it.)
And the heroes, a Flying Carpet richer, continue on their way.
……………..
The heroes arrive at Hoomwix in mid-afternoon and repeat the process they had at Huxwell (First Plateau) and Zidiac (Second Plateau). THIS time, however, the top of the escarpment is different!
The plateau is not very large, maybe only five miles across, and it is nearly full of well-manicured gardens and orchards and ordered farmland. And the south-west corner of the plateau sits Plateau City, the City of Adventurers! Imposing walls that have never fallen to an enemy fail to hide the Rainbow Palace and the Star Mages Keep, both of which tower far above the walls. There is a broad Trade Road from Hoomwix due South to one of the splendid City Gates…
The heroes walk south and arrive at Quest Gate, waiting until they slowly get to the front of the line. The guards’ questions are standard, thorough, and polite, and there is no problem paying the tax and moving into the greatest city in the Wold! And they arrived at the perfect place: Adventurer’s Square! Look, there! The fabled Red Dragon Inn! The first and original Woldian League of Adventurers!! The physical entrance to The Catacombs!!!
Further away, the heroes can see the tops of other fabled buildings. The ruins of the Temple of Domi! And the Skull-like Temple to Gargul in Nightmare Quarter! And the shining Cathedral of Light dedicated to Alemi over there on the largest island in the Endless River! The need to gawk and play the tourist is strong.
(ooc: Desdichado and others who have been in Plateau City know the Temple of Domi was destroyed by Marteus during the Year of Ascension a hundred years ago. When Marteus was defeated and gods of the Wold restored that Year, the priests of Domi never rebuilt. Instead, they saw the ruined Temple as a triumph of the indominatable defense and will of Domi, and have kept the Temple in its ruined state as proof of his ultimate success.)
(ooc: feel free to role-play doing so or resisting the urge :- )
Desdichado (Ryan) [HP:198/198; AC:32/15/30 - CMD 34] Saturday September 3rd, 2022 6:32:11 PM
Desdichado is glad to back in the City after having been away for so long. While not home, it's what has felt like it for several years now. He knows one of his first duties must be to report in on what he's been up to, especially having disappeared for over a year!
He goes to the temple ruins to be debriefed. He offers to show anyone around the Outcast Quarter near the ruins, take them to some of the more popular inns, and help them find a place to stay. "If you're feeling brave, you could try a jump down the Endless Falls," he laughs.
Ramirez (BrianZ) AC30/19/23 HP122/122 CMD32 Saturday September 3rd, 2022 8:59:49 PM Lots of important buildings and history here. I bet the bars are full of good tales.
If he has the time, Ramirez will stop by the WLA and see how things are going. The chapter here probably doesn't need to hide like the one in Dirt City.
RobC - Nira Wynvyre -- AC 29/15/25 -- CMD 23 -- HP 115/122 -- DarkVision/ArcaneSight/SeeInvis Saturday September 3rd, 2022 9:00:06 PM
Nira shakes her head on seeing the Temple of Domi. The last time she was here it had only recently been destroyed. She'd hoped it would be rebuilt but can understand the reasoning for leaving it as-is.
She's keen to see what else may have changed in the town (and what has stayed the same), and resists the urge to utter the phrase "Back in my day..."
The Mining Guild Hall - Co-DM SteveK Sunday September 4th, 2022 3:14:51 PM
Before The Tide can split up, a message arrives from the WLA.
The WLA heroes from Nighmare Quarter are visiting the Mining Guild in Guild Quarter only a couple of blocks away. It would be a good idea to go see them…
The Tide follow the message directions and walk through Adventure Quarter and over a bridge to Guild Quarter. There, to the left, is the Mining Guild, with a young group emerging from the building, including two with WLA tokens on their shoulder…
…..
All CMTC Heroes are invited to post on the Nightmare Quarter Board. … we are having a CROSSOVER!!
Nightmare Quarter- Co-DM SteveK Sunday September 4th, 2022 3:30:11 PM
CMTC heroes, please post in Nightmare this week.
Factoring in Plans. Co-DM SteveK Monday September 12th, 2022 1:45:02 AM
The Tide gives farewells and invitations to the young Nightmare heroes.
And then, they need to decide what to do! Luckily, they had all evening and morning before breakfast to plan in a safe place. And they have a lead. And they know the Rakshasa know the Tide is back and where they most likely will come next.
Unknowns are still present. How many dominated and I dominated innocents are working unwittingly for the Rakshasa? How overconfident and arrogant is the group here?
…..
The heroes have the initiative.
Desdichado (Ryan) [HP:198/198; AC:32/15/30 - CMD 34] Monday September 12th, 2022 2:48:32 PM
"Sounds like we should make our way over to the Merchant Quarter and see what we can find out about this 'Bill Factor'", says Desdichado.
Ramirez (BrianZ) AC30/19/23 HP122/122 CMD32 Monday September 12th, 2022 4:38:43 PM It may be a trap, but it's our best lead. Shall we use stealth or kick in the door?
Danko Pureheart (Yves) -- AC 24 -- CMD 36 -- HP 113/119 Monday September 12th, 2022 5:01:52 PM
Danko listens and throws his some options.
" Well, it most likely is a trap. if we go and look around... If there's shenanigans, I can teleport most of us out. I would expect that some well placed protection of evil spells cast ahead of time would offer sufficient protection against possession. A few discreet ' As anyone seen Bill! Ya know! Bill Factor! ' will either get us some directions, a meeting with the gent or draw out the welcoming committee. Win win and win really. "
Gaffer - Courtney - HP: 149/149 AC: 32(T:18/FF:27) CMD:35) d20+23=31 ; d20+27=30 ; Monday September 12th, 2022 6:08:20 PM
Gaffer casts an extended Barkskin on himself in preperation as they move towards the Merchant Quarters,
"We don't have many stealthy options that include the whole group. I vote kick down the door. Heck, if the city is on guard against Rakshasa, then once we locate them I might be able to use an earthquake spell to bring the building down and make it public."
As they walk through the city, Gaffer compares the views he sees to the one he saw through the crystal ball previously, he remembers a bend in the river being visible and tries to match that with their location.
----- Perception: 30 Knowledge Nature: 31
Hmerrin (MikeK)(HP 164/192 AC:32 T:20 FF:26 CMD:40) d20+18=27 ; Monday September 12th, 2022 6:33:22 PM
Hmerrin shakes his head in wonder. "I thought I was supposed to be the 'bash the door in' guy.
All we know is this Bill Factor is one of several people getting a lot of gold to rent his warehouse to this Guild Company, and Gaffer's ready to earthquake it already.
Let's see what this place looks like, maybe talk to Bill, get a feel for the place. We can even let our 'gentleman rogue' try a little B&E if it comes to that. THEN we can start with the fire and earthquakes and whatnot."
Hmerrin makes his way to the warehouse, and tries to get a feel for the place. [Perception 27]
RobC - Nira Wynvyre -- AC 29/15/25 -- CMD 23 -- HP 115/122 -- DarkVision/ArcaneSight/SeeInvis Tuesday September 13th, 2022 4:11:28 AM "We know they're here. They know we know they're here so they know that we'll be coming for them. I'd say they're well prepared"
"Remember, some of the people we might encounter could be dominated. Perhaps we should use non-lethal means on anyone that isn't clearly a rak? An innocent person shouldn't die at our hands."
Two Sets of Two Ideas. Co-DM SteveK Tuesday September 13th, 2022 5:08:22 AM
The Tide discusses. It looks like they come up with two sets of two options, but not a majority agreeing on any one.
1. Ask around Merchant Quarter on if anyone has seen Bill Factor. Or be more discreet.
2. Once the warehouse is found, bash it in! Or ask.
Once a decision is made, action will have to follow.
The heroes have the initiative.
Desdichado (Ryan) [HP:198/198; AC:32/15/30 - CMD 34] d20+28=41 ; Tuesday September 13th, 2022 3:52:24 PM
Desdichado thinks about their options. "The Nightmare group told us someone in the Mining Guild office wanted this Guild Company Limited looked into, so they're aware of some sort of problem. And 'Bill' is renting his warehouse to them - but it could be like those delivery men we encountered earlier. He may not have any idea of what's really going on."
"I'm not sure how discreet we can really be. The rakshasa very likely know we're in town. I say we can be a little cautious in looking for Bill, for his sake mainly, but realistically they'll be expecting us."
Assuming they go to the Merchant Quarter, Desidchado asks around for which of the warehouses belongs to Bill Factor. (Diplomacy: 41) Once they know, he's ready to go in "kick down the door" style.
Ramirez (BrianZ) AC30/19/23 HP122/122 CMD32 d20+16=20 ; d20+20=36 ; Tuesday September 13th, 2022 6:14:23 PM
Ramirez will join Des in asking around. It wouldn't hurt to have some extra info.
kn local = 20 diplomacy = 36
Hmerrin (MikeK)(HP 164/192 AC:32 T:20 FF:26 CMD:40) Tuesday September 13th, 2022 6:48:07 PM
"And since they're already expecting us, there's no reason to hurry," Hmerrin points out.
"Let's at least walk around the building once and see which door we like."
Hmerrin sticks with Dez and Ramirez, but keeps his mouth shut.
Gaffer - Courtney - HP: 149/149 AC: 32(T:18/FF:27) CMD:35) Tuesday September 13th, 2022 7:41:21 PM
Gaffer accepts he may have gotten a little hasty. As the group begin to wander, he drops back into an alleyway so that he can take the form of a cat once more and trail the group from behind, watching for any others doing the same.
He can't help but note how much safer he feels doing so since the telepathic bond was put in place, much better than the old days of making lights glow to signal the team.
RobC - Nira Wynvyre -- AC 29/15/25 -- CMD 23 -- HP 115/122 -- DarkVision/ArcaneSight/SeeInvis Tuesday September 13th, 2022 8:55:44 PM
Nira agrees with the 'let's start softly' approach. Gather info first and then perhaps act after that. Who knows, the information gathered could present a new approach?
Her ability to gather information isn't as good as Ram or Dez, but she has learnt a few things about the city.
Danko Pureheart (Yves) -- AC 24 -- CMD 36 -- HP 1190/119 Tuesday September 13th, 2022 9:12:09 PM
Danko 'sighs again. He's open to anything really. He can make himself look like one of the delivery people. He can operate as a fail safe and teleport himself and others away. Or he can free innocent, mind possessed minions that try to kill them.
Really, he can do any or all of the above. Or he can stand back and wait.
{ Whatever }
---------- If he goes with anyone, he'll cast protection from evil from the Brahama tatoo before entering anywhere.
Walking to Merchants Quarter. Co-DM SteveK Wednesday September 14th, 2022 5:28:00 AM
Desdichado thinks some discrete asking to locate the warehouse, and then be ready to "kick down the door".
Ramirez will join Des in asking around. It wouldn't hurt to have some extra info.
Hmerrin points out that since they're already expecting The Tide, there's no reason to hurry. He wants to at least walk around the building once and see which door we like."
Gaffer acknowledges he had a hasty thought and agrees with the plan. He shapeshifts into an alley cat to watch the group’s back.
Nira agrees with the 'let's start softly' approach. As they walk about, she learns a few things about the city.
Danko sighs. He can do nearly anything, ticking what he *could* do on his fingers. Yet with the others working their approach, he doesn’t actually *do* any of them. He’s ready to use his Brahmah’s Tattoo if going into a building, but otherwise stands back and waits. (ooc: as DM in the Wold, I can’t make a PC do something :-)
----------
An initial plan set with room for flexibility (depending on what they find), The Tide makes for the Merchant’s Quarter. Starting at Gargul’s Skull Temple in Nightmare Quarter, they reverse their walk the previous day and take Skull Street to Rogue Quarter and the Temple of Wardd. Then they deviate, taking Riverside Road to get to Trade Quarter and the Open Palm Market where the Temple of Flower sits prominently in one corner. While on the banks of the Endless River, the team can notice there are more Quarters yet unnamed on the opposite banks. One of those Quarters has several prominent pyramids and buildings of even stranger design, which Nira learns is Foreign Quarter.
There is also a lot of river traffic! Nira finds out, besides many cargo rafts, there is a water taxi company: Leipa Landlubber. Simply call or wave for cheap, safe transportation to anywhere that touches the river. Leipa also has private taxi-barges and romantic “couples' tours” to Moonlight Island and Endless Falls.
Continuing on Riverside Road, the heroes skirt the edge of Guild Quarter and then come to their destination, Merchants Quarter. Turning to the right and away from the Endless River, march onto the road called Arrow’s Shot, which is a quick walk to Merchant’s Square.
Merchant Square is very organized with vendors, but not as large as Open Palm Market. The skyline here is dominated by the Constabulary Castle, the University of Magic, and the Royal Library.
Nira learns the Royal Library is huge and contains portals to additional wings in pocket portions of the Shadowlands. To use the Library, simply enter and speak to a librarian. Researchers as well as Scribes and Guides are available for a price. She also finds that the High Lord Mayor’s Castle, where High Lord Sturevant lives and where the actual government of New Elenna works, is in the northern portion of the quarter on Cutlass Street.
Gaffer doesn’t notice anyone trailing the team. He does, however, get a sense of ‘déjà vu’ when he enters Merchants Square. The angle is wrong, but he can see that to the west, the view of the rooftops and the magnificent Cathedral of Light are very similar to his vision in the crystal ball in Karri!
Diplomacy in Merchants Square. Co-DM SteveK Wednesday September 14th, 2022 5:29:20 AM
Desdichado and Remirez use their diplomacy to good effect: starting conversations, gaining trust, and discreetly including questions about being able to find Bill Factor for a potential future business deal. The D&R team are skilled and practiced to put people at ease, and it isn’t long before they are rewarded. Bill Factor usually can be found at his warehouse, and it is right over there on the corner of Merchant’s Square and Fouchard’s Run. What’s more (excellent diplomacy!), Desdichado sweet-talks what Bill looks like: a thin, balding, middle-aged human who huffs and puffs by climbing a flight of stairs.
Bill Factor’s Warehouse looks like a sturdy half-timbered building four stories tall with a pitched tile roof. The ground floor has a wooden double door large enough for a wagon to drive through, with a smaller door-within-a-door for persons. The second floor has windows that are large enough to be the standard living quarters with grills to prevent burglary. The top two floors have smaller windows with grills, obviously just enough to let light in.
The heroes have the initiative.
Hmerrin (MikeK)(HP 164/192 AC:32 T:20 FF:26 CMD:40) d20+18=21 ; Wednesday September 14th, 2022 3:34:03 PM
"I'm gonna take a walk," Hmerrin states, thrusting a chin toward the warehouse.
He circles around the exterior of the warehouse, looking to see if there are other windows and doors on the side or back of the building. [Perception 21]
Once complete with his circuit, he'll accompany (or catch up with) anyone who has entered the place looking for Bill.
Ramirez (BrianZ) AC30/19/23 HP122/122 CMD32 Wednesday September 14th, 2022 3:49:43 PM Would anyone like to go look into some of the upper floor windows?
Desdichado (Ryan) [HP:198/198; AC:32/15/30 - CMD 34] Wednesday September 14th, 2022 4:26:56 PM
Desdichado sees the small, barred upper windows and sighs. "We're going to have to make our way up there to fight these things, aren't we?"
After the group looks around the building for additional entrances he asks whether they want to try knocking or just head in unannounced. He's ready for either
Danko Pureheart (Yves) -- AC 24 -- CMD 36 -- HP 1190/119 d20+19=27 ; d20+18=37 ; Wednesday September 14th, 2022 6:03:30 PM
At Ramirez's question, Danko looks up.
" I can handle that. Stay frosty my friends. "
Danko looks for a dark and isolated corner and then starts casting...
His Brahmah tatoo glows, another spell is cast with no observable effects and with a third spell, Danko fades out of existance.
An invisible Danko flies to the second floor, makes a check for traps and looks in.
(ooc> Yep, lots of actions. Three spells, one move and two perception checks. )
Perception check for traps - 27 Looking in the window - perception check 37
Gaffer - Courtney - HP: 149/149 AC: 32(T:18/FF:27) CMD:35) Wednesday September 14th, 2022 8:13:40 PM
Grasping on to his sense of deja vu, and knowing he has a moment while Danko investigates, Gaffer meanders between buildings for a minute, trying to align the angle of his own surroundings with the view he remembers.
RobC - Nira Wynvyre -- AC 29/15/25 -- CMD 23 -- HP 115/122 -- DarkVision/ArcaneSight/SeeInvis Wednesday September 14th, 2022 10:24:39 PM
Nira tries to find an inconspicuous place to stand near the front while the rest of the group does some scouting.
When Gaffer starts to go off for a walk, she joins him. She's not quite sure what to look for, but trusts that he does.
----------------- Perception: 34 (Take10)
Checking out Bill Factor’s Warehouse. Co-DM SteveK Thursday September 15th, 2022 11:42:57 AM
(ooc: no worries about multiple actions; we are not in combat rounds. DM will manage the time to ensure everyone is on the same timeline before any shooting starts. :-)
Hmerrin circles the warehouse. He finds the warehouse shares walls with four other buildings in this heavy urban environment. He can see the front wall and four stories, and he can find that there is a back corner on Merchant Street with a small door. But that is it.
Ramirez suggests a look into the upper floors. Danko complies, casting three spells to invisibly fly up to the second floor windows. After a visual inspection, he can’t see any hidden traps at this window, and looks in. Gingham curtains are wide, and inside looks like a children’s bedroom. Two beds, a couple pewter thundermugs, two chests, a night table with a pewter basin and pitcher all look solid and efficient, but not expensive. Gingham linens, a rag-scrap rug, and half a dozen toys all look hand-made and done in a basic style. There is a door in the far wall and the room is empty.
Desdichado is ready to try knocking or just head in unannounced.
Gaffer meanders with Nira, trying to align his déjà vu and the vision. After a minute or so, he’s pretty sure he won’t be able to pinpoint where the ‘conversation’ had taken place just by working his memory. However, he does think that it would be somewhere very close to Merchant’s Square, but higher up: he remembers seeing more roofs, less walls.
The party has the initiative
Desdichado (Ryan) [HP:198/198; AC:32/15/30 - CMD 34] d20+28=35 ; Thursday September 15th, 2022 1:01:58 PM
At Danko's description of the room, and Gaffer's intuition that this probably isn't exactly what was seen in the crystal ball, Desdichado suddenly becomes much more cautious in his approach.
"If there are kids in there, I don't want to risk a fight. Let's try knocking and asking Bill Factor nicely about who he's renting his warehouse out to. Maybe he'll know something, maybe he won't."
(OOC: If others have other plans before talking, I'm all for it.)
(Diplomacy:35)
Desdichado tries to be his friendliest towards Bill Factor and put him at ease.
"Hello Master Factor, my name is Desdichado. We wanted to ask you some questions about the people you're renting your warehouse to - Guild Company Limited. We've had some encounters with their members down south. Apparently the Mining Guild has found some irregularities with them as well."
"Anything you could tell us about them would be helpful. To be clear: they are a dangerous group, I'm sure you've had no idea because they hide their activities well. For your safety, though, we want to investigate them here."
Ramirez (BrianZ) AC30/19/23 HP122/122 CMD32 d20+15=35 ; Thursday September 15th, 2022 5:43:14 PM
Ramirez supports Desdichado's move. He waits with him at the door. Des laid it all out so he adds nothing extra and just observes when the door is answered.
perception = 35(nat 20)
Hmerrin (MikeK)(HP 164/192 AC:32 T:20 FF:26 CMD:40) d20+3=23 ; Thursday September 15th, 2022 7:03:05 PM
Seeing the door in back, Hmerrin tries the handle for giggles. He has no intention of going inside, but is curious if the door is open.
Working his way back to the front, he lets the team know what he's found.
Dez's plan makes sense, and Hmerrin tags along with the paladin to see what Bill has to say. [Sense Motive on Bill: 23]
Danko Pureheart (Yves) -- AC 24 -- CMD 36 -- HP 1190/119 d20+18=36 ; Thursday September 15th, 2022 8:47:15 PM
Danko takes a sniper position and watches over Des.
{ Send- I've got the high grounds and covering your backs - end }
RobC - Nira Wynvyre -- AC 29/15/25 -- CMD 23 -- HP 115/122 -- DarkVision/ArcaneSight/SeeInvis Thursday September 15th, 2022 10:50:04 PM
Nira stands 10ft or so to the side of the warehouse door. Not hiding or pressing herself against it mind you. Just standing idly out of the way from the door. She doesn't want to startle whoever opens it. A well armed group is no doubt quite intimidating, so no use overwhelming them with numbers.
Gaffer - Courtney - HP: 149/149 AC: 32(T:18/FF:27) CMD:35) Friday September 16th, 2022 4:52:45 AM
Gaffer keeps some distance from the gathering Tide, finding a spot across the street to perch and watch what happens. If they all head inside the building, he'll run over to join them inside.
Bill Factor. Co-DM SteveK Friday September 16th, 2022 5:59:17 AM
Hmerrin tries the handle for giggles. As halfway expected, it is barred from the inside.
………………
Gathering back near the front of the warehouse, The Tide make their preparations.
Danko takes a sniper position and watches over Des. Across Fouchard’s Run from the warehouse is the University of Magic, which is encircled by a 5’ thick and 15’ high, stone wall. It is the perfect vantage point to see into the doors (albeit at a downward angle), and up and down the street. While sitting there, Danko’s Greater Invisibility wears off (it has now been 20 rounds, i.e. 2 minutes since casting) (Danko should make a Perception check for what he can see up and down the street, and a Stealth check to avoid being seen on the wall)
Nira idly stands 10ft or so to the side of the warehouse door.
Gaffer is a small cat in the street.
Desdichado, Ramirez, and Hmerrin go up to the front door, and the paladin knocks. Soon, vague sounds come through the door along with a muffled ”Just a minute, Master William!” (For the three standing near the door only, Perception DC15 Highlight to display spoiler: { The vague sounds are a startled ‘oh!’, the scraping of a wooden stool against a stone floor, and a quick step accompanied by wheezing breath up to the door.} ) Opening the door is a human that matches the description of Bill Factor.
The three at the door only can see that behind Bill is a large, empty room with occasional lines of wooden support beams. To the right there is a countertop with stools in front and a set of cubbies behind it. Dimly seen on the far side is a small, barred door. Desdichado tries to be his friendliest towards Bill Factor and put him at ease. The man blinks and leans out to look to the left and right in the street. “Um, OK, please come in and we can talk. I am expecting another business soon, so I will apologize in advance if I stop our talk short.”
Bill lets in any of the team who want to come inside, and waves a hand at a dozen stools against the wall near a countertop. He listens to the paladin, worry lines getting deeper and deeper. ”I confess I have no idea of anyone who is a part of “Guild Company Limited”, I have never met anyone. As goods come in, I ensure the waggoneers pile the goods inside a specified circle in the middle of the warehouse. I lock up, and the next morning, all goods are gone and my payment is on the counter.”
"I believe you," says Desdichado. "I think they try to keep their identities hidden. I don't want to keep you from your other business, so I have just a few more questions:
"What kinds of goods are being exchanged? Can you show us the circle? Is this circle magic? Do those picking up have a key to the warehouse? How do they get in?"
"Just one more thing. I know this is a very big request, but when the next pick-up is scheduled, could we wait in the warehouse? If so, I'd recommend taking your family somewhere else for the evening if you can. We'd make sure no harm comes to your warehouse," and giving a quick glance in Danko's direction adds, "or compensate you more than fairly if it does."
Ramirez (BrianZ) AC30/19/23 HP122/122 CMD32 d20+15=24 ; Friday September 16th, 2022 7:27:02 PM
Ramirez accepts Bill's invitation to enter. He nods agreement with Desdichado. I agree we need to examine this circle. Bill, we have a few more friends who will be arriving shortly. These people who have rented your warehouse may be aligned with the Rakshasa that you have no doubt heard about. I hope you understand that we want to put a stop to their plans.
I wonder if we can hide here and wait till this next delivery comes and then they leave. We may be able to find out some more about the operation.
Gaffer - Courtney - HP: 149/149 AC: 32(T:18/FF:27) CMD:35) Friday September 16th, 2022 8:34:26 PM
Gaffer runs to get into the house along with the others who seem to have a good handle on the conversation. He listens quietly as it seems like a plan is unfolding.
RobC - Nira Wynvyre -- AC 29/15/25 -- CMD 23 -- HP 115/122 -- DarkVision/ArcaneSight/SeeInvis Saturday September 17th, 2022 1:26:08 AM
As the others enter the building, Nira follows. Des has the questions covered so she just tries to stand back and appear non-threatening. It's actually hard for her to appear threatening, so this is kind of the norm for her.
She stays alert for any trouble though.
Perception: 34 (Take10)
Hmerrin (MikeK)(HP 164/192 AC:32 T:20 FF:26 CMD:40) d20+18=38 ; Saturday September 17th, 2022 11:33:55 AM
Perception 38
Hmerrin has nothing to add, and decides to just continue with the strong silent type routine.
Offered a stool, he tries to figure out which one was moved, and sits there. As Dez continues speaking, he casually looks around his perch for anything that might have been tucked away somewhere.
Danko Pureheart (Yves) -- AC 24 -- CMD 36 -- HP 1190/119 d20+18=33 ; d20+6=26 ; Sunday September 18th, 2022 5:00:07 PM
Danko keeps and eye out up and down the street and is stealthy and stealthy can be
---------------------------------
Perception 33 Stealth nat 20 26
A Warehouse Mystery. Co-DM SteveK Sunday September 18th, 2022 5:07:48 PM
The Tide seems to let Desdichado kept the lead in the discussion, and the paladin gets answers.
What kind of goods? They are always in boxes, crates and barrels, Bill doesn’t know.
No one has a key except Bill, so he doesn’t know how the goods leave his warehouse.
Bill shows the group the circle, it is a shallow , stone groove chiseled into the warehouse floor. Pacing it off, the Tide determines it is 20 feet across. Nira sees no lingering aura.
Bill doesn’t schedule pick-ups, but he coordinates drop-offs, and the next one is due this morning. In fact….
(Danko can report via telepathy that a caravan of three wagons has entered Fouchards Run, and stopped at Bill Factor’s Warehouse. The caravan master is the gnome who gave the magic carpet to the heroes for saving Young Wil from the Tunche!)
There is another knock at the door….
Bill looks to see what the heroes do.
Hmerrin (MikeK)(HP 164/192 AC:32 T:20 FF:26 CMD:40) Monday September 19th, 2022 5:28:21 PM
Hmerrin relays what Bill told them. "Teleport circle or something?" he shoots out to Nira and Gaffer.
Danko gives them the low down on the incoming wagons, and Hmerrin smiles at Bill when he hears the knock on the door.
"It's OK, you can get it."
Gaffer - Courtney - HP: 149/149 AC: 32(T:18/FF:27) CMD:35) Monday September 19th, 2022 6:24:57 PM
Gaffer is padding in a circle on the floor, the stone is cold and he can't find a comfortable place to sit, but his head snaps up as the knock rings out. He tilts his head to the side, intrested to see how this plays out. If the caravan group don't know who they are working for, they shouldn't be concerned by the Tides presence.
Desdichado (Ryan) [HP:198/198; AC:32/15/30 - CMD 34] Monday September 19th, 2022 7:19:41 PM
"The people coming in are the next dropoff for Guild Company Limited?"asks Desdichado. "Well, this should be interesting."
He waits with the others as the group comes in. "Hmm..," he thinks to himself, "I wonder if the caravan master is a member of the Gemsmith clan."
Danko Pureheart (Yves) -- AC 24 -- CMD 36 -- HP 1190/119 d20+18=32 ; d20+6=10 ; Monday September 19th, 2022 8:29:05 PM
Danko keeps watching and relaying
-------------
Perception 32 Stealth 10 ( plus any bonuses for being up high)
RobC - Nira Wynvyre -- AC 29/15/25 -- CMD 23 -- HP 115/122 -- DarkVision/ArcaneSight/SeeInvis Monday September 19th, 2022 9:37:25 PM
Nira shares the same thinking as Hmerrin and telepathically discusses it with the group. "Teleportation circle would make sense, but I don't detect any magical auras so not a permanent thing. Could be they only cast it when needed. Who's the caster though?"
Ramirez (BrianZ) AC30/19/23 HP122/122 CMD32 Monday September 19th, 2022 11:11:14 PM Ok, are we hiding or talking to them? I could cast a minor illusion which might conceal us.
A Warehouse Meeting. Co-DM SteveK d20=7 ; d20=17 ; d20=11 ; Tuesday September 20th, 2022 1:23:19 AM
Danko keeps his place and his telepathic reporting to the group. Most people normally don’t look up, but in a crowded city, Mr Shinanigans knows several folks have spotted him. They just haven’t said anything. Yet.
Inside the warehouse, most of the others want this to play out. Bill opens the door and then opens both large doors. In comes William, the caravan master. He spies the heroes and breaks into a wide smile. ”Our rescuers!”. William comes and takes a stool with the heroes. Hero-worshipping Young Wil hangs out around the Tide until he spies Gaffer, and then exclaims ”Kitty!” and tries to pet the cat to make it purr.
With William giving the story and The Tide’s bona fides, Bill is more than happy to agree to the heroes’ plan. The wife has a sister on Second Plateau that’s been wanting a visit. So after the goods are piled into the circle, Bill plans a visit, and William takes his payment And goes to laagar the wagons outside the city.
The heroes are left alone with the piled goods in the circle in Bill Factor’s Warehouse.
Desdichado (Ryan) [HP:198/198; AC:32/15/30 - CMD 34] d20+22=26 ; Tuesday September 20th, 2022 1:33:55 PM
Desdichado greets William and Young Wil warmly with a big hello. To Young Wil he says, "I think I have something for you in my pack..let's see - here you go," as he pulls out a couple of sticks of halfling rock sugar for the boy.
As Bill leaves, Desdichado decides to take a closer look at the goods (Perception: 26).
"Now I guess all there is left to do is wait. Would it be an incredibly stupid idea to wait inside the circle?" he wonders.
Hmerrin (MikeK)(HP 164/192 AC:32 T:20 FF:26 CMD:40) d20+18=37 ; Tuesday September 20th, 2022 2:53:46 PM
"I was thinking we pretty much have to," Hmerrin answers seriously. The fighter also pokes around at the goods [Perception 37]
"My guess is no one even shows up. They've figured out a way to scoop anything sitting in this exact spot. If we're not also sitting here, we'll just see boxes one second, and air the next, and that'll be that."
"Course, we could get dumped out anywhere. So, I'm open to suggestions."
Danko Pureheart (Yves) -- AC 24 -- CMD 36 -- HP 1190/119 d20+18=35 ; d4=4 ; d20+6=25 ; Tuesday September 20th, 2022 4:20:47 PM
Danko maintains his position and tries to hide a little more and see a lot more.
Gaffer - Courtney - HP: 149/149 AC: 32(T:18/FF:27) CMD:35) Tuesday September 20th, 2022 4:32:14 PM
Gaffer has no problem being indulging the boy and "Is there a way we could leave something extra in the circle to see what's on the other side, or help us track it down?" Gaffer looks mainly to Nira to see if her magic might offer something here. "Otherwise, I vote we all climb in."
Gaffer - Courtney - HP: 149/149 AC: 32(T:18/FF:27) CMD:35) Tuesday September 20th, 2022 4:33:55 PM
[OOC: Accidentally submitted while editing. Just meant to add that he wildshapes back to his human form after everyone else has left.]
Ramirez (BrianZ) AC30/19/23 HP122/122 CMD32 Tuesday September 20th, 2022 5:14:06 PM Well, I guess they teleport it out. So if we sit in the circle, we can go along for the ride.
Considerations. Co-DM SteveK Wednesday September 21st, 2022 4:09:46 AM Meeting Desdichado greets William and Young Wil warmly and gives the kid a sweet. Gaffer indulges the boy as a cat, and waits until everyone is gone before becoming human again.
Goods A closer look at the goods is what Bill says: crates and casks of various sizes and weights that are nailed and sealed to detect tampering. Some slosh, some clink, some rattle, and some are pretty silent. None have a discernable smell. Unless the team has magical means to look inside without opening, they will have to decide to break seals to learn more.
Circlele Desdichado wonders how stupid would it be to wait inside the circle? Hmerrin thinks that is the only way to track where the goods go. Gaffer doesn’t like walking into what to him is an obvious magic, and hopes Nira has a solution. Ramirez thinks the ride is the only way.
Outside Danko stays on the wall and tries to hide, but that is difficult because he had already been spotted. Ten minutes on the wall, the caravaneers are still unloading wagons, and six constables walk up Fouchards Run towards Constable Castle. “Oy, ay there! We try and keep people casing joints around here. C’mon down.” If still there an hour later, the caravan and Bill and family are gone, and a professor from Magic University comes by to chase off Danko. Near the same time, Danko knows by telepathy that the rest of team is going to be sitting on the piled goods and expect to be teleported somewhere else at any moment. It looks like the magical rogue has a choice to join the team or be in real danger of being separated from the party…
RobC - Nira Wynvyre -- AC 29/15/25 -- CMD 23 -- HP 115/122 -- DarkVision/ArcaneSight/SeeInvis Wednesday September 21st, 2022 8:26:24 AM
Nira has the same idea as Gaffer.
"The problem is that we don't know where it would take us or what would be on the other side. What we could do is look for a small animal of some kind. A mouse or something smaller like a bug of some kind. I take a clipping of fur or scale from it and then we leave the animal in the circle. Once it teleports away I cast a scrying spell on it. If the spell works it would give us some detail about where it's gone and let me see and hear what's waiting on the other side. They might not even notice or care about a bug appearing. It also means we could potentially teleport at a time convenient to us and perhaps catch the other side unaware."
She waits to hear suggestions or feedback from the others.
Desdichado (Ryan) [HP:198/198; AC:32/15/30 - CMD 34] Wednesday September 21st, 2022 1:50:37 PM
"A mouse you say?" says Desidchado archly, looking towards Hmerrin. "That might just work. I am worried about the possibility of losing a chance to find them until the next drop-off, though. We've already pushed the boundaries of hospitality on Bill, and if there are two incidents, they may come for him."
Hmerrin (MikeK)(HP 164/192 AC:32 T:20 FF:26 CMD:40) Wednesday September 21st, 2022 2:56:32 PM
Hmerrin grins. "A mouse you say."
The fighter reaches into his haversack and brings out a small matchbox. Inside is a small mouse. "Meet Mr Jingles. Very special mouse. Couldn't get rid of him if I tried."
To Dez - "I really like the idea of not having to leap into a teleport circle without knowing what happens to the contents therein. If Nira can't scry it, we can go sightseeing while we wait for the next pickup."
He passes the mouse to Nira, then deposits it as far into the pile of crates as he can.
Then, he backs up and waits.
---- Yule present 12/7/2017 - A mouse named "Mr Jingles" that lives in a small match box. Doesn't matter how many times the mouse might be killed, it reappears alive in the box the next day.
Ramirez (BrianZ) AC30/19/23 HP122/122 CMD32 Wednesday September 21st, 2022 7:40:46 PM It could work. We just have to hope they don't have anything blocking scrying magic.
Ramirez goes outside to get Danko, since everyone else is working on a plan together.
Danko Pureheart (Yves) -- AC 24 -- CMD 36 -- HP 1190/119 Wednesday September 21st, 2022 7:58:10 PM
“Fine Fine !” Danko yells down before joining the rest of the group.
Gaffer - Courtney - HP: 149/149 AC: 32(T:18/FF:27) CMD:35) Wednesday September 21st, 2022 8:48:35 PM
Gaffer smiles as Hmerrin pulls out his pet mouse. "Seeing as they are likely expecting us, the mouse gets my vote. Or set fire to the crates and see if smoke appears in the city." Remembering their own difficulties with putting out fires.
Gaffer chuckles while looking at the mouse. "I'm quite curious what Mr Jingles thinks of plans like these."
Goodbye Mr Jingles Co-DM SteveK Thursday September 22nd, 2022 5:09:12 AM
Danko gives a little city-talk back yells down before joining the rest of the group. He meets Ramirez who was just coming out to get the magical rogue.
Inside, the team deposits Mr. Jingles in and among the boxes after ensuring NIra has a long time to get familiar with the wee beestie. And then they wait. And wait. And wait. ..........
It is night, heroes with even rudimentary survival skills know it is an hour before midnight. The street sounds have reduced, the occasional constable call. There is little night-life in the Merchant’s Quarter and so close to Constable Castle. Only shadows can be vaguely seen in the warehouse. And then, the circle glows, and the goods fall through the floor!
Know Arcana DC24 Highlight to display spoiler: { It is a conjuration spell. } Know Arcana or Spellcraft DC29 Highlight to display spoiler: { The spell is a Gate: connecting the Wold with another plane! }
A medium-sized shadow emerges from the floor where the goods used to be, and pads towards Bill’s counter, dropping a bag with a *clink*. The 20’ diameter hole still appears open.
Darkvision or similar means Highlight to display spoiler: { It is a tiger-headed rakshasa! }
…..
No map. Please post where/how your PC is watching and/or hiding
Hmerrin was expecting the goods to just vanish, not a hole and company. Therefore, he's sitting on one of the stools when a rakshasa emerges from the still existing hole.
The fighter spits a curse as his entire Wait And See plan goes poof.
He launches himself at the rakshsa, halberd in hand. "We gotta get in that hole!" he sends as he attacks. "They're tipped off and we won't get another chance. Nira, how long will whatever it is remain open?"
---------- Move to raka while drawing halberd. Attack hits ac 30 for 18 with holy piercing wpn
Desdichado (Ryan) [HP:198/198; AC:32/15/30 - CMD 34] d20+24=26 ; Thursday September 22nd, 2022 7:25:08 PM
Desdichado, not being stealthy, had stood along a far wall while waiting. The Stone of the Forge Lord allows him to see the rakshasa, and he is shocked into action by Hmerrin's yell.
Draw morningstar and move to rakshasa 26 vs AC (miss?)
Gaffer - Courtney - HP: 149/149 AC: 32(T:18/FF:27) CMD:35) d20+20=21 ; 3d6=11 ; Thursday September 22nd, 2022 7:45:52 PM
Gaffer had been pacing restlessly when the goods vanish, and shares in on the surprise as a hole appears on the floor, and even more so when the Rakshasa appears.
He moves quickly to get a clear line within 30 feet of the Rakshasa and a roiling mass of flames appear in his hands before he pushes it forward.
Ramirez (BrianZ) AC30/19/23 HP122/122 CMD32 Thursday September 22nd, 2022 8:27:32 PM Well there goes the neighborhood. Ramirez casts a dancing lights in the room, so everyone can see the rakshasa without special vision.
RobC - Nira Wynvyre -- AC 29/15/25 -- CMD 23 -- HP 115/122 -- DarkVision/ArcaneSight/SeeInvis d20+12=24 ; d4=3 ; Thursday September 22nd, 2022 9:54:28 PM
Nira hadn't been expecting company, so as soon as she starts to see a figure start to appear she dives behind a table.
She communicates entirely telepathically so as not to let the rak know what she knows. "Ok, we got a problem. Actually, we have a few problems." she stays low "That's not a teleportation spell. That's a gate spell. That means the transportation is to another plane and not somewhere we can teleport. It's also a spell stronger than any of us can cast. That means whoever cast it is likely extremely powerful. It's also a window which means if there's someone on the other side right now they can see out of it, so don't get too close. We don't want them to see us and close it. Lastly, the gate can stay open for up to around 3 minutes, but it might not stay open that long if this guy doesn't report back. We have to make this quick"
Nira doesn't like making hasty moves but offers some advice to the group. "If he dives through, there's still a spell we could use to track him down but it would be a gamble".
She points her finger at the rak and sends a blast of negative energy towards it.
---------------- Knowl Arcana vs DC24: Autopass Spellcraft vs DC29: Autopass
Standard: Defensively cast Enervation. Concentration check autopass. Hit TouchAC24. If hit, Rak takes 3 negative levels)
Rakshasa! Co-DM SteveK Friday September 23rd, 2022 9:05:21 AM
Hmerrin is sitting on a when a rakshasa emerges from the still existing hole! Plan A in shambles, he launches himself at the enemy, scoring with his halberd.
Desdichado waited against a far wall. His Stone of the Forge Lord helps his sight, and he charges next to the rakshasa with his Morningstar. He hits!
Gaffer paced restlessly when the goods vanish, and joins in the instant reaction. The rakshasa is hit by a flaming sphere!
Ramirez casts a dancing lights in the room, so everyone can see the rakshasa without special vision.
Nira dives behind a table. Telepathically, she gives the low-down on the spell: it’s a Gate! A blast of negative energy strikes the rakshasa affecting the creature badly. ……………
The Rakshasa roars in surprise and pain, and instinctively drops the bag, turns, and dives back into the Gate. Shouting ”Close it, closeitcloseitclo…”, it disappears into whatever plane it came from. (Withdraw move, only Hmerrin has a Reach Weapon to get an AOO.
If the rakshasa were hoping subterfuge would serve them and so not prepared for an assault, the Tide’s chance is very nearly out the window… unless desperate times call for… well, you know.
…..
Rakshasa AC25 SR19 HP 34 +3 Negative Levels (33hp)
No map
Desdichado (Ryan) [HP:198/198; AC:32/15/30 - CMD 34] Friday September 23rd, 2022 4:21:36 PM
Desdichado mentally calls out, "I'm going for it. If we don't take this chance, they'll just fortify themselves even more. And they'll kill Bill Factor for helping us."
He runs toward the Gate.
Ramirez (BrianZ) AC30/19/23 HP122/122 CMD32 Friday September 23rd, 2022 6:54:31 PM We surprised them, and maybe the ones on the other side as well.
Ramirez isn't going to let Des go alone, and follows him through the gate.
Danko Pureheart (Yves) -- AC 24 -- CMD 36 -- HP 1190/119 Friday September 23rd, 2022 7:52:50 PM
Danko 'Sighs deeply.
" Sometimes I really, really, REALLY dislike paladins! "
and runs after Des and Ramizez, following them through the gate.
RobC - Nira Wynvyre -- AC 29/15/25 -- CMD 23 -- HP 115/122 -- DarkVision/ArcaneSight/SeeInvis Friday September 23rd, 2022 9:28:24 PM
Had the raks been on this plane the group might have had an easier time tracking them. Locating them on another plane would be all the much trickier, and they'd lose what element of surprise they have left. Time to go.
Nira flies to the portal and lowers herself into it. She doesn't want to end up on a pile.
Gaffer - Courtney - HP: 149/149 AC: 32(T:18/FF:27) CMD:35) Saturday September 24th, 2022 7:28:07 PM
Gaffer looks over at Hmerrin as they are the only two left. "I suppose it would be poor taste to head back now and keep the temple to ourselves?" He chuckles at his own comment as he steps into the hole.
Whoa, Not Rakshasa! Co-DM SteveK d20+27=43 d20+27=38 2d6(1+2)+14=17 2d6(3+4)+14=21 3d6(5+2+3)=10 3d6(3+2+4)=9 Monday September 26th, 2022 8:43:13 AM
The wounded Rakshasa spins and jumps into the Gate. Without hesitation, (and only a minor remark about the selflessness of paladins!), the heroes all jump into the Gate too!
The heroes arrive in a large, dark room with a pile of boxes and crates. They note the Gate, while on the floor of Bill Factor's Warehouse, is on the wall in the dark room. So the goods fell from the warehouse and piled onto the floor near the Gate. As the heroes jump through, they might become disoriented and sprawl on the ground, except for the flying Nira. (Acrobatics DC 15 or be prone.)
The pile of boxes and barrels rests near a rocky boulder that blocks the sight of anything behind it. The wounded rakshasa is scrambling around it and still talking. "Close the Gate! Kill all non-rakshasa!", it babbles while moving away from The Tide.
But wait. It 'should be a boulder, if not for the feathery wings that mantle as the skeletal creature stands, strange gasses clinging to its nightmarish form! And it speaks as the Gate closes. "Yes, master, I obey. The Gate closes and only Rakshasa may live here." And the voice takes on gleeful anticipation. "Including you." The wounded 'rakshasa' doesn't even get a chance to scream as two claws (sparking with electrical energies) blur forward, finishing what the heroes had begun. A shimmer, and the 'rakshasa' changes form in death, becoming the bluish form of an Ogre Mage! And then the skeletal creature looks at the heroes.
......
Know Religion DC 29 Highlight to display spoiler: {(It is a Titzimitl, a gargantuan undead! Stories give this creature a CR19. For every 5 points above DC29, the DM will provide another data point on Defense and Offensive abilities.)}
Spellcraft DC 31 Highlight to display spoiler: {(The claws had a special attack: Energy Drain, 2 levels!)}
Hmerrin (MikeK)(HP 192/192 AC:37 T:20 FF:31 CMD:44) Monday September 26th, 2022 12:16:08 PM
Hmerrin needs a moment to process what he's looking at. Or more accurately, decide he's not going to be able to process what he's looking at.
"That's really big," he comments unhelpfully.
Time to get moving.
The young man retrieves a potion from his haversack, and downs it quickly.
Then, pulling out his axes, he circles the pile of goods.
-- Retrieve and drink Barkskin potion. 40' Move to J16, while drawing wpns.
In Effect Barkskin CL12: +5 Nat Arm for 120 minutes
Desdichado falls flat on the landing. He looks up at the big skeleton thing, thinking the same as Hmerrin. "Yeah," he says slowly as he stands up trying to orient himself.
Thinking adding some size might be helpful for himself, he drinks a potion of Enlarge Person.
Well, I'm not sure what it is, but it doesn't seem friendly.
Ramirez casts haste on the group while they are still close together.
Used: Spells: 3rd- 5/6 remaining
Danko Pureheart (Yves) -- AC 24 -- CMD 36 -- HP 1190/119 d20+14=32 ; Monday September 26th, 2022 8:05:49 PM
Like a cat falling from a medium size building, Danko lands on his feet.
Danko casts old trusty wall of force.
------------ Acrobacy - 32
Wall of force along the O line, wall to wall, floor to ceiling.
Gaffer - Courtney - HP: 149/149 AC: 32(T:18/FF:27) CMD:35) d20+1=3 ; d20+27=34 ; Monday September 26th, 2022 8:47:19 PM
Gaffer tumbles to the floor, narrowly avoiding hitting his head against the crates. He quickly jumps to his feet and sees a lot of things happening all at once, glad for Danko's wall giving the group a chance to prepare.
"Does anybody know what that thing is? It made short work of the Ogre."
He looks around the room for any doorways, checking out the material of the floor and walls and trying to get a sense for where they might be.
----- Acrobatics: 3 Perception: 34
----- Barkskin: +5 AC, 5 hours
RobC - Nira Wynvyre -- AC 29/15/25 -- CMD 23 -- HP 115/122 -- DarkVision/ArcaneSight/SeeInvis d20+24=29 ; d20+28=33 ; d20+22=35 ; Monday September 26th, 2022 8:48:32 PM Before Danko casts the Wall of Force, Nira casts a spell of her own. A fight is inevitable, so would be nice to get a shot in.
"It's a Titzimitl! Some gargantuan and uber-powerful undead. Watch out for the claws as they can drain your life force."
She casts a Living Voodoo spell on the creature hoping to blind it. Now blind herself, she decides it's best to take cover.
With the Wall of Force now in effet, Nira offers a suggestion. "Perhaps next time you could leave a 5ft gap at the side or bottom that we normal folk could fit around, that a huge thing like that couldn't? That way we could still fight it. Right now I can't target it with anything. If it's got a way to get around that wall we're cornered". It's said only as an innocent suggestion for next time, and not at all intended as with any malice or criticism.
--------------------- Knowl Religion vs DC29: 29=Pass! Spellcraft vs DC31: 33=Pass!
Standard: Defensively cast Living Voodoo Doll. Concentration check autopass. SR check:35. If pass, both Nira and Titzimitl are blind for the next 16rnds Move: Fly to H12 down to ground level
To DMs.. Highlight to display spoiler: {With the different time zones it's difficult for me to get my post in before others so hoping you'll allow Nira's action to occur before the Wall of Force goes up.}
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