Nightingale (JonS) HP 43/43 AC 21 CMD: 21 Sunday December 25th, 2022 3:55:51 AM
Merry Christmas y'all
Beech (JohnC) AC 19(23)/14/15,HP 46/46 Character Sunday January 1st, 2023 9:47:06 PM
Updating the Header
Zazu (AC20, HP52) and Boyo the bunny (AC19, HP26) (Cayzle) Tuesday January 3rd, 2023 2:12:51 PM
Zazu takes the time to ponder and consider how to be more prepared for the next fight. The wizard writes down a series of notes, amending the hand-made book Zazu uses for prepping spells.
[OOC: Added Darkvision and Major Image to my repertoire on levelling to 8. Also, my sheet is linked above and ready for DM review.]
Panzer Braun (David F) AC 28 (T16, FF24) CMD 27 HP 87/87 ) Character Sheet Wednesday January 4th, 2023 5:01:26 PM
Panzer is also ready for review. He is also in the catacombs still, so Fredo will need to attend to thongs here until he gets back.
Panzer Braun (David F) AC 28 (T16, FF24) CMD 27 HP 87/87 ) Character Sheet Wednesday January 4th, 2023 5:01:59 PM
Things *
The Darkness Recedes...For Now (DM BatMark) Wednesday January 4th, 2023 9:26:21 PM
After the long battle, the Champions are able to find some respite in the longhouse. They discuss means to deal with future battles with these Dark forces, leading Panzer to head off to the Catacombs in search of gear that might be of use. As you compare notes, you realize that the hard won lessons learned from your recent adventures have unlocked new growth in your abilities! Zazu has figured out new spells, including Darkvision–how handy that would have been in the last fight. What other discoveries have our heroes made? What else do you wish to do before turning in for the night, and some badly needed rest and recovery? And most importantly, what do you think of the task that the now-depleted Tree of Parting heroes have put before you, to take over their quest to deal with these forces of Darkness that seek to change the Culverwood?
Zazu (AC20, HP52) and Boyo the bunny (AC19, HP26) (Cayzle) Wednesday January 4th, 2023 10:34:44 PM
Zazu bids the Tree of Parting heroes farewell. It seems like people are always coming into and out of the party's path.
The trickster practices with ranged legerdemain while the party ponders, playing cat's cradle in mid-air.
Panzer Braun (David F) AC 28 (T16, FF24) CMD 27 HP 87/87 ) Character Sheet Thursday January 5th, 2023 12:02:50 AM
Fredo, tasked with taking notes and filling in for his absent teacher has questions. It would seem that the heroes of the Tree of Parting have invented almost no information to those in Freedoms Landing. We're it him about to risk his life for the seemingly ungrateful Culverwood he would like a great deal more information.
Nightingale (JonS) HP 43/43 AC 21 CMD: 21 Thursday January 5th, 2023 2:19:49 AM
Nightingale is sad and happy to see their adventurer friends return to their homes. At this point, Nightingale believes a visit to the Dryad grove may provide some answers on what is happening and possible ways to reverse it.
Beech (JohnC) AC 19(23)/14/15,HP 46/46 Character Thursday January 5th, 2023 1:41:15 PM
Beech, agrees with Fredo, other than something from deep in the Culverwood, not just physically, but also dimensionally now threatens the group as well as the village. Beech has figured out how to move the group deeper into and back out to the surface level almost at will, so traveling won't be a problem, just being prepared is going to be the issue.... After dinner he dismisses himself, heads back to his tent and turns in...
Zazu (AC20, HP52) and Boyo the bunny (AC19, HP26) (Cayzle) Thursday January 5th, 2023 6:27:34 PM
Zazu thinks about the village, and wanders around making sure nobody is hurt, all the plant monsters corpses are cleaned up, and helping set things to rights.
Sahabiel (EstherLauren) -- AC 23/12/22 -- HP: 56/56 Thursday January 5th, 2023 8:47:38 PM
Sahabiel, although she has calmed down after going through some chores and checking up on those closest to her being alright, is still very worried about the state of the Culverwood. Nothing that the group has been able to figure out so far has been even remotely hopeful for the people and settlements that were inside the Culverwood when the Darkening of the wood started, or the integrity of the ancient power itself?
Part of her wants to travel into the woods to her former home to take stock of the situation, but she has people to protect here now too. (ooc: Sahabiel visiting her original people is not my intention, but I have to bring it up since it would be too weird for her to not be gravely concerned about her family and other relations that still live inside the wood)
For the moment,she just tries to see to her daily tasks and give instruction to her protege Ghundit.
Lothlo (WillD) -- AC: 20/15/16, HP: 40/53, CMD: 23 Thursday January 5th, 2023 9:10:10 PM
Lothlo checks on the villagers then rejoins the others. We should try to get a little more information before we do anything. Didn't we just hear that our friends were just tricked into making things worse? We need to do what we can to make sure we don't make the same mistake.
It's a beautiful day! (DM BatMark) Thursday January 5th, 2023 9:46:22 PM Sahabiel is worried about the state of things in the Culverwood, and those in the woods of her former home. She distracts herself from these worries by seeing to her daily tasks and instructing Ghundit. Panzer is absent, but Fredo is taking notes, even while disgruntled at the lack of information from the Tree of Parting party. Zazu bids the Tree of Parting heroes farewell, then practices some legerdemain in mid-air before moving around the village to clean things up and check on folks. Beech agrees with Fredo that something dimensionally, not just physically threatens the group and village. Lothlo thinks you need more information, to avoid being tricked like the others. Naithi keeps quiet for the moment. Nightingale has mixed emotions as the Tree heroes depart, and thinks that a visit to the Dryad grove may provide some answers.
Before the other party departs, they nod in agreement as Sahabiel, Beech, and Fredo opine that something beyond mortal powers is behind the Darkening of the Culverwood. ”Look, we can’t stay long, those Dark Druids clearly have it in for us, and our presence here threatens your village. We will move out immediately and draw their attention elsewhere. Perhaps this will buy you some breathing room to continue your own explorations, which should in turn help you carry on this quest that, alas, we cannot. Be cautious as you gain knowledge and build strength, for your foes are wily and powerful. We wish that we had more knowledge to share, but much of what we thought we had learned was false, and we ourselves were duped by the Dark Druids of the Culverwood. Good luck, stay strong, and be beacons of light in these dark times!” With that as a farewell, they make haste to depart, before another wave of foes arrives to threaten the peace of the village.
At least the clouds and unnatural darkness have also retreated, leaving the village feeling oddly normal after the unusual events of the evening. The attack seems to have focused on the Tree of Parting heroes and the Champions in their company, leaving the rest of the place unscathed. There is of course plenty of concern from your neighbors, but as no more threats emerge, and with the party’s efforts to check in on their neighbors, folks seem to calm down a bit. You are able to pass the night without further disturbance, or at least not more than caused by the knowledge that something is not right with the Culverwood.
What do you do in the light of the crisp spring dawn the next day?
Naithi (JamesD) AC: 24/16/19 HP: 68/68 , CMD = 18 Camalayas AC = 22/16/16 Friday January 6th, 2023 2:15:42 AM
Naithi says farewell to the heroes from The Tree of Parting and checks to see that everyone is alright. She then helps Zazu with cleanup.
Nightingale (JonS) HP 43/43 AC 21 CMD: 21 Friday January 6th, 2023 2:51:01 PM
Nightingale will continue training with her orphan, in fact, she takes him with her when she visits the WLA to train at 8th level (essentially). When she gets back, she ensures the flowers that surround her home are growing. When it comes to planting season she is going to plant wildflowers on the walls and roof - for insulation and color. She also plays with her kitten.
Panzer Braun (David F) AC 28 (T16, FF24) CMD 27 HP 87/87 ) Character Sheet Friday January 6th, 2023 7:00:34 PM
Fredo heads home and amakes sure that Panzer's pack is ready to go with provisions and fresh blankets so that Panzer can leave to the Culverwood when he gets back from the catacombs (if he ever does)
Sahabiel (EstherLauren) -- AC 23/12/22 -- HP: 56/56 Friday January 6th, 2023 8:36:13 PM
Sahabiel wishes their guests from the Tree of Parting a safe journey upon their departure, and turns her mind to her battle training and contemplation as she tries to think through the implications of what is going on. She tries to read the signs, influences emanating from the Culverwood, in the trees and plants she has been caring for, and somehow feels she is on the verge of something...
(ooc: Linked character sheet is being updated, not ready for approval yet)
Lothlo (WillD) -- AC: 20/15/16, HP: 56/56, CMD: 23 Friday January 6th, 2023 9:13:56 PM
Lothlo says goodbye to his friends from the Tree of Parting He then pours a cup of coffee and discusses their next course of action. Do you think we should visit our friends in their grove to see if they can provide any insight? It's pretty much on the way, and with the new details we were given they may be able to give some guidance.
Beech (JohnC) AC 19(23)/14/15,HP 46/46 Character Friday January 6th, 2023 9:21:36 PM "Probably not a bad idea..." Beech has his gear ready to go, and is carrying stuff...
To the Grove? (DM BatMark) Saturday January 7th, 2023 10:16:17 AM Sahabiel sees off the Tree heroes and turns to training and contemplation. As she reads the signs, she feels on the verge of deeper understanding. Panzer benefits from Fredo’s packing. Highlight to display spoiler: {You can treat the Catacombs as out of game time, and rejoin posting as Panzer if you like.} Zazu sleeps in. Lothlo says goodbye to the Tree heroes and pours some coffee to continue the planning, including suggesting a trip to the grove for consultations. Beech apparently agrees and is carrying enough gear to be ready to go. Naithi says farewell before checking on others and helping with cleanup. Nightingale continues training her orphan, tending flowers, and playing with her kitten.
The Tree Heroes have departed, the village has returned to a sense of normalcy–such as it is on the edge of Culverwood–and you have tended to your apprentices and companions. Unbidden, though, thoughts of the recent darkness come creeping back, intruding on your thoughts. Out of the corner of your sight, do you sometimes catch a shadow that should not be, or is it just your imagination? Reality always takes a strange shape here on the border between the tame and untameable, light and shadow. Several of your number have suggested seeking guidance from your friends in the grove. Do you heed this counsel? Your previous contacts have involved some peril, so how do you prepare for the jaunt?
Nightingale (JonS) HP 51/51 AC 21 CMD: 21 Saturday January 7th, 2023 8:37:02 PM
test
Zazu (AC20, HP52) and Boyo the bunny (AC19, HP26) (Cayzle) Saturday January 7th, 2023 11:03:51 PM
Zazu is keen to enter the true Culverwood and see what there is to see ... and visiting our dryad friends there seems like a great idea. The elf hops on Boyo and is ready to go, with a couple changes to the wizard's prepped spells list! Adding Darkvision for sure!
Panzer Braun (David F) AC 28 (T16, FF24) CMD 27 HP 87/87 ) Character Sheet Monday January 9th, 2023 2:33:06 PM
Panzer trots into town and is ready to go. He hands Beech a simple wooden scroll tube with 8 scrolls of darkvision in it. " Thanks Beech, those should keep me able to fight in the future." " Thanks Fredo, I want you to keep working on the ditch while we are gone and stay alert. If you see trouble like what just happened, Gather as many as you can and hide as far from the Culverwood as you can."
Beech (JohnC) AC 19(23)/14/15,HP 46/46 Character Monday January 9th, 2023 4:49:13 PM
Beech tucks the tube into one of his pouches, pats it twice, then moves it. As the wait for everyone to get ready continues, he moves the tube back to the first pouch. Satisfied, he double checks the bow's string, half pulls, then loosens it by hand, not just letting it go...., he restocks arrows in both quivers finds that one is down 2 arrows, he wonders where they got off too....
Sahabiel (EstherLauren) -- AC 23/12/22 -- HP: 59/59 Monday January 9th, 2023 5:15:23 PM
Sahabiel agrees that there may be value to visiting the Culverwood and seeing for themselves the extent of the changes happening there. Making the dryad grove their destination could either provide valuable information, or.. prove a mournful undertaking, depending on whether their allies' trees have been affected by this growing darkness. She dares to hope though - the at least a thousand year old grove was so shrouded in wards and sacred in its own right, just reaching it at all required an enchanted needle to point the way at all time. It seems unlikely it would bend to anything easily.
"It is true that the fey are likely to be more sensitive to what is going on, and might even have information from their kind elsewhere, through what various means by which the fey courts keep in touch. Also... well, we can sit around here but I am not sure what is within our power to do from here that would get many questions answered."
Naithi (JamesD) AC: 24/16/19 HP: 68/68 , CMD = 18 Camalayas AC = 22/16/16 Monday January 9th, 2023 8:04:29 PM
Naithi cannot think of a better plan and prepares to head out.
Lothlo (WillD) -- AC: 20/15/16, HP: 56/56, CMD: 23 Monday January 9th, 2023 8:49:44 PM The Dryads are probably is great danger already since they are living in the Culverwood, so even if danger is following us it makes sense to at least warn them.
Yes, to the Grove! (DM BatMark) Monday January 9th, 2023 10:00:03 PM Sahabiel agrees that there is value in visiting the Culverwood, the fey may have some information of use, and there is nothing more to be learned sitting around in the village. Panzer trots into town, handing a batch of scrolls to Beech for future use. He thanks Fredo and gives orders for while he is away. Zazu hops on Boyo and is ready to visit your dryad friends, new spells prepared. Beech tucks Panzer’s scroll tube into a succession of pouches, then checks his bow and arrows. Lothlo expresses concern for the dryads, wanting to warn them. Naithi can’t think of a better plan and prepares to head out. Nightingale keeps close counsel for the moment.
The party reaches a consensus to seek out the dryad grove again, and seems to be ready to move out. In your previous journey, you were guided by an enchanted lodestone left for you by the dryads. And even with that assistance, the journey was difficult and fraught with danger. How do you find the path? What precautions do you take as you go? What bold hero will lead the way?
Zazu (AC20, HP52) and Boyo the bunny (AC19, HP26) (Cayzle) d20+21=38 ; Monday January 9th, 2023 10:00:23 PM
As the group departs, Zazu resolves to keep a sharp watch.
Perception 38
"I'm happy I'm still keeping my resolution!"
Nightingale (JonS) HP 51/51 AC 21 CMD: 21 Tuesday January 10th, 2023 2:01:50 AM
OOC: Sorry. was fixing Nightingale, then got busy with housework
IC: After spending time in meditation, and giving her protege instructions on caring for her cat, and the martial exercises she has been teaching him, Nightingale will go find her friends, hopefully better prepared than their last excursion into the 'Wood
Beech (JohnC) AC 19(23)/14/15,HP 46/46 Character Tuesday January 10th, 2023 12:30:29 PM
Beech knows he's useless in navigation, so he keeps his mouth closed while they are headed. He will do his best to remember the path they take...
Panzer Braun (David F) AC 28 (T16, FF24) CMD 27 HP 87/87 ) Character Sheet Tuesday January 10th, 2023 5:46:17 PM " I am the last person to WANT to go into the Culverwood, but like I said, I have grown fond of having friends, so let's go. I'll try to track my way there, but since trying to find anything in this forest is an outright joke I'll let someone Like Sahabiel do it. She understands the place and has an actual chance at success." Panzer takes point with both weapons drawn and ready.
Naithi (JamesD) AC: 24/16/19 HP: 68/68 , CMD = 18 Camalayas AC = 22/16/16 d20+20=31 ; Tuesday January 10th, 2023 6:21:37 PM
Naithi helps the group find their way through the first
Survival= 31 (+6 for Forest Walking)
Sahabiel (EstherLauren) -- AC 23/12/22 -- HP: 59/59 Tuesday January 10th, 2023 8:45:57 PM
Sahabiel asks Nightingale is she still has the enchanted needle that always point the way towards the grove. If at all possible, she thinks that little trinket should be mounted in a proper compass at some point.
Lothlo (WillD) -- AC: 20/15/16, HP: 56/56, CMD: 23 Tuesday January 10th, 2023 8:52:30 PM It's too bad we can't use that seed pod, it would have made life a lot easier. Do we have a way to send a message to them to let them know we are coming? If not, I suppose I'll follow whoever leads us through the Culverwood.
It sure is Dark in here... (DM BatMark) Tuesday January 10th, 2023 9:28:29 PM Panzer continues to be a bundle of heroic contradictions, always going against what he wants to do in order to do the right thing. He takes point with weapons drawn, letting Sahabiel or others more canny re the wood’s ways set the course. Zazu resolves to keep a sharp watch as you go. Beech keeps his mouth shut regarding navigation and tries to remember the path. Lothlo laments that you can’t use the seed that you received on your previous adventures, and asks whether someone can contact the dryads to let them know you are coming. Naithi uses her forest walking to help guide the way. Nightingale finishes meditating and instructing her protege before joining her friends on this latest excursion. Sahabiel asks whether Nightingale still has the enchanted lodestone.
The Champions easily cross the river and approach the untamed Culverwood without incident. As you near, however, you get an unsettling feeling, and those with a connection to the Wood can feel that something is slightly off. It is hard to put a finger on what exactly is wrong with this always changing and wild place, other than it seems a bit more touched by shadow than is usual. As you enter the untamed Culverwood, you notice that everything is a little darker, from the filtered light overhead to the foliage on the plant life. Naithi starts off confidently to the northwest, retracing your previous journey to the dryads’ grove, and at first you make good progress. The first hour passes, though, and you start to realize that something is amiss. Certitude regarding the proper course turns to something only slightly better than a coin toss, with landmarks not quite where you expected or not appearing at all. Do you press on or try something new to find the way?
Zazu (AC20, HP52) and Boyo the bunny (AC19, HP26) (Cayzle) Tuesday January 10th, 2023 11:55:19 PM
Zazu sighs. "It is as we feared and expected. I suppose we should be glad it is not worse. Is this the new normal, or will it get darker still?"
As for finding the dryads, Zeoll does not have the capability to act on the ideas that occur, but maybe others can?
"Can anybody talk to animals and plants and see if anybody can help us get there? Maybe someone can fly up and look down from above? Locate Creature, maybe?"
"Naithi, maybe turn something into a flower? Dryads like flowers, right?"
"Anybody able to play some music? Dryads like music too, I think?"
"Maybe cast Animal Messenger and send an animal out with a short letter asking them to meet us?"
Beech (JohnC) AC 19(23)/14/15,HP 46/46 Character Wednesday January 11th, 2023 3:43:42 PM
Beech pulls out his Ioun Stone and let's it lighten the area (CL5 Continual Flame), he then settles his hand on the bow, ready to draw a arrow if called for....
Panzer Braun (David F) AC 28 (T16, FF24) CMD 27 HP 87/87 ) Character Sheet d20+6=7 ; Wednesday January 11th, 2023 3:55:07 PM
Panzer tries to help Niathi with navigating in the Culverwood, but as expected the Culverwood decides that easy navigation is not in the cards today. Survival 7
Nightingale (JonS) HP 51/51 AC 21 CMD: 21 Wednesday January 11th, 2023 5:16:00 PM
Nightingale, looks around, unhappy with the way the 'Wood is changing. "What about dancing, Dryads like to do that."
Sahabiel (EstherLauren) -- AC 23/12/22 -- HP: 59/59 d20+26=31 ; Wednesday January 11th, 2023 7:43:00 PM
As far as Sahabiel is concerned, the only thing that feels clearly amiss is how dim the light in the wood has become. As for the sense of misdirection and inability to pinpoint landmarks... that part actually feels pretty much the same as the last time they traveled out this way. Without the lodestone, they would never have found their way to the grove without being turned around the first time, either.
"Nightingale, is the lodestone still drawn to a particular direction? Its very specific enchantment is for the singular purpose of leading to our allies' grove, we should at least be able to tell if it is still working or not."
Sahabiel meanwhile observes caution, with her morning star in hand, and uses her knowledge of survival in the woods to read their surroundings.
Survival (magical wood) d20+26 = 31 to avoid losing her way, or 27 for recognizing and reading tracks, signs of ambush, etc
Lothlo (WillD) -- AC: 20/15/16, HP: 56/56, CMD: 23 d20+15=19 ; d20+17=21 ; d20+17=34 ; d20+12=27 ; d8+8=10 ; d8+8=14 ; d8+8=9 ; Wednesday January 11th, 2023 9:01:36 PM
Lothlo draws his bow and readies himself if something should appear, he looks around the treetops and to see if anything dangerous is hiding in the shadows. The shifting may be normal, but it was still dangerous before. If the loadstone is working I think it makes sense to keep going. If not, should we had to the deeper areas... if we can? We didn't exactly do it on purpose last time, which is why going to the grove would be a wise start if we can.
Perception = 19
Roll each twice: D20 + 17(+1 within 30'), 1d8 +8 (+1 within 30') , and +4 to confirm crits Roll each once: D20 + 12(+1 within 30'), 1d8 +8 (+1 within 30') , and +4 to confirm crits
Attack 1 = 21 Damage 1 = 10
Attack 2 = 34 Damage 2 = 14
Attack 3 = 27 Damage 3 = 9
Naithi (JamesD) AC: 24/16/19 HP: 68/68 , CMD = 18 Camalayas AC = 22/16/16 d20+20=32 ; Wednesday January 11th, 2023 9:07:42 PM
Naithi frowns. I didn't think to prepare any of those spells, but I do have several flowers we can use if necessary. Otherwise I have to wait until morning for new spells.
Survival to find way and keep from getting lost= 32
Good things come in threes, right? (DM BatMark) Wednesday January 11th, 2023 9:43:29 PM Panzer tries to help Naithi navigate, but everything seems off kilter. Zazu laments the darkness and wonders whether this is the new normal, briefly turns into a retired hero of old, then comes back to the moment to suggest some ways to go deeper into the Culverwood. Beech lights his continual flame ioun stone and stands ready with his bow. Nightingale, unhappy with the changes to the wood, suggests that dryads like dancing. Lothlo is on guard and wonders whether the lodestone could help. Alternately, you could try to go deeper. Sahabiel again suggests that the lodestone may be of use, if Nightingale is so inclined. She hefts her morning star and is not surprised by the ever-shifting wood, just by the darkness. She remains puzzled regarding the proper direction of travel, which seems to just barely elude her. Naithi, starting where Sahabiel left off, frowns in concentration, then surprisingly points to the northeast. She is quite sure that is the direction needed to get back on the path to the dryads’ grove.
Our Champions are a bit adrift in the woods at the moment. Three courses of action have been suggested, but which will they choose? Will Nightingale bring forth the lodestone to see what it might do? Do you dance or otherwise attempt to go deeper as a circuitous path to the dryads? Or do you follow Naithi’s renewed sense of certainty? The shadows seem to deepen as you stand and ponder…
Zazu (AC20, HP52) and Boyo the bunny (AC19, HP26) (Cayzle) Wednesday January 11th, 2023 11:34:25 PM
OOC: Oh snap! Please don't hold Cayzle's old tired brain against poor Zazu! My own fault for two "Z" names, I suppose.
Zazu giggles. "Oh yeah, the lodestone! How did I forget about that? That's the best way for sure! Let's see if it agrees with Naithi's intuition."
Beech (JohnC) AC 19(23)/14/15,HP 46/46 Character Thursday January 12th, 2023 12:53:08 PM
Beech shrugs, he hopes the Lodestone works, but he expects something else is up.... He studies the warps of the magic in the area, he's not trying to move them deeper, but he might be able to notice is something else is moving the magic, or about to appear on top of them.....
He uses his UMD skill with a take 10.... for a 28 to perceive the magics
Naithi (JamesD) AC: 24/16/19 HP: 68/68 , CMD = 18 Camalayas AC = 22/16/16 d20+20=25 ; Thursday January 12th, 2023 2:50:08 PM
Naithi keeps guiding the others so the best of her ability and compare her intuition and experience with the load stone to see the the two agree or if she can use it to enhance her abilities.
Survival to find way and keep from getting lost= 25
Nightingale (JonS) HP 51/51 AC 21 CMD: 21 Thursday January 12th, 2023 5:16:09 PM
Nightingale will pull the lodestone out of a belt pouch and commune with Queen Maab to help it find the Dryad's Grove
Panzer Braun (David F) AC 28 (T16, FF24) CMD 27 HP 87/87 ) Character Sheet Thursday January 12th, 2023 6:31:21 PM
Panzer puts his face in his hands in frustration. He ants to cry thinking how hard it was to find the grove the first time with the lodestone. Now they were trying to find it without it? He waits for a solid diretion to head off into before moving out.
Zazu (AC20, HP52) and Boyo the bunny (AC19, HP26) (Cayzle) d20+15=35 ; d20+13=21 ; d20+9=14 ; Thursday January 12th, 2023 7:03:09 PM
Zazu's thoughts lie in the same direction as Beech's. Well, for the moment they do ... odds are Zazu's thoughts will soon hie off in another direction entirely! But for the moment, the wizard focuses on the threads of magic running through the divine ecosystem ...
Sahabiel (EstherLauren) -- AC 23/12/22 -- HP: 60/60 d20+26=36 ; Thursday January 12th, 2023 8:25:14 PM
Sahabiel stands guard while Nightingale checks the lodestone. With her senses on the wild woodland around her, she continues to read the terrain ahead. Although she was not quite certain last time, she is fairly sure now that she sees some terrain features to navigate by well enough to keep going in the direction they want for a while...
Survival (magical woods) d20+26 = 36
Lothlo (WillD) -- AC: 20/15/16, HP: 56/56, CMD: 23 d20+15=31 ; d20+5=24 ; d20+17=18 ; d20+17=27 ; d20+12=18 ; d8+8=11 ; d8+8=11 ; d8+8=9 ; Thursday January 12th, 2023 8:52:21 PM
Lothlo doesn't let down his guard, or his bow. He continues to scan the area for threats as he thinks about his knowledge of this area and whether their inability to keep a course is part of the Culverwoods normal bag of tricks, or whether it appears that something or someone is keeping them from reaching their destination.
Perception = 31 Knowledge (local)=24
Attack 1 = 18 Damage 1 = 11
Attack 2 = 27 Damage 2 = 11
Attack 3 = 18 Damage 3 = 9
Two steps forward... (DM BatMark) Thursday January 12th, 2023 10:00:51 PM Beech hopes the lodestone works, but studies the local warps of magic for clues. Zazu is eager to see if the lodestone points in the same direction as Naithi does. The wizard is of the same mind as Beech, truly a scary thought, and studies the threads of magic running through the area. Nightingale fishes out the lodestone and communes with the Fae Queen to help find the grove. It points in the same direction that Naithi had most recently indicated, to the northeast. Naithi is buoyed by the concordance with the lodestone, and is able to work with Nightingale to plot a course that seems correct. Sahabiel stands guard and reads the terrain, this time catching on to the signs that the others are seeing. Panzer despairs, holding his face in his hands and thus missing the moment when the path is regained by Nightingale, Naithi, and Sahabiel. Lothlo keeps his guard up and scans the area, but finds no fresh threats.
Nightingale, Naithi, and Sahabiel have regained the path, perhaps showing some favor from the Fae Queen herself. Regardless of the reason, they can see an intermittent glimmer of natural light woven into the path they seek. This contrasts with the thread of darkness woven into the rest of the surrounding Culverwood, which to Beech and Zazu somehow seems both natural and corrupted. The party is able to make some progress over the coming hour. Based on your previous trip, you would estimate that you are perhaps halfway there, although time and distance can be tricky here in the Culverwood, even without malevolent powers warping it even further than usual. Eventually you reach a small clearing, where you stop to take your bearings. There are two trails leading out to the northeast. Your guides will have to confer again to choose the right one…
Panzer Braun (David F) AC 28 (T16, FF24) CMD 27 HP 87/87 ) Character Sheet d20+6=9 ; Friday January 13th, 2023 12:29:24 PM
Panzer again tries to assist with finding the way, but the Culverwood still has other ideas. Survival 9
Beech (JohnC) AC 19(23)/14/15,HP 46/46 Character d20=10 ; Friday January 13th, 2023 3:24:59 PM
Beech, does his best to aid.... He adds his suggestions to the pool. And then he stays ready, expecting something to pop out of the woodwork...
Successful in Aid another Survival rolled a 10
Nightingale (JonS) HP 51/51 AC 21 CMD: 21 Survival Check: d20+7=27 ; Know:Nature: d20+7=25 ; Friday January 13th, 2023 3:26:03 PM
Nightingale inspects the trails for signs of recent passage and which on the lodestone is pointing towards
Sahabiel (EstherLauren) -- AC 23/12/22 -- HP: 60/60 d20+26=34 ; Friday January 13th, 2023 7:29:33 PM
Seeing the intermittent glimmer of light, Sahabiel can only wonder if that means the fey are on some level resisting the darkness... she grows even more eager than before to meet with them and share what they each know. Once they make it to the grove, that is.
"I believe this one is the trail that will lead us the right way", she tells her companions with some confidence.
Survival (magical wood): d20+26 = 34, success if the DC is still 32. I have been rolling below average these last three rounds, so thank goodness for Sahabiel's almost out of this world modifier ;)
Lothlo (WillD) -- AC: 20/15/16, HP: 56/56, CMD: 23 d20+15=23 ; d20+17=29 ; d20+17=31 ; d20+12=13 ; d8+8=13 ; d8+8=16 ; d8+8=11 ; Friday January 13th, 2023 8:43:38 PM
Lothlo again looks around and keeps guard while they try to decide which way to go. As he scans for threats he tries to determine if any of the paths seems less dark or less corrupted than the rest.
Perception = 23
Attack 1 = 29 Damage 1 = 13
Attack 2 = 31 Damage 2 = 16
Attack 3 = 13 Damage 3 = 11
Zazu (AC20, HP52) and Boyo the bunny (AC19, HP26) (Cayzle) d20+9=15 ; Friday January 13th, 2023 9:16:12 PM
Zazu tries to help too.
Survival Aid Another 15
And back again (DM BatMark) Friday January 13th, 2023 10:02:18 PM Panzer tries to assist in navigating, but ends up befuddled. Beech is able to add a few thoughts to the direction finding. Nightingale compares the lodestone’s guidance with her own intuition, and happily finds the two in consonance. The widdershins trail curving to the left is the correct one. Sahabiel examines the fae light and also believes that the left path is the right one :) Zazu is able to chime in with useful guidance to the navigators. Lothlo scans for threats, weapons at the ready, but sees none. Highlight to display spoiler: {You have been rolling a number of attacks. I’m assuming these are intended to be readied attacks. Technically, I don’t think you can do that outside of “initiative” or in the Wold’s case, an encounter order determined by the DM. Happy to be corrected if you have knowledge otherwise. Regardless, a readied action can’t be a full round action, so you are probably rolling too many attacks if that is your intention.} Naithi keeps up.
You press on with redoubled confidence, and soon your confidence is rewarded. Through a break in the foliage, you can see the familiar outline of the dryads’ grove ahead, with oak, spruce, alder, and maple trees, all clustered around an enormous yew. The lodestone swings back and forth as it did the first time you arrive here.
Yet as you come closer, something seems different. The grove is like much of the greenery you have been passing in the Culverwood, darker in tone. It remains as hushed as when you first found it, but the fresh smell has been replaced with a slight mustiness. Not corrupt, just without the vibrant scent that you remember. Those with an affinity for nature or the Culverwood may make a DC 15 check with a relevant skill or ability. Highlight to display spoiler: {You are able to ascertain that the trees of the grove have gone dormant, sort of like trees elsewhere might do in winter, but somehow deeper.} There is no sign of the dryads, although even in the past it took some time for them to notice and respond to your presence.
Beech (JohnC) AC 19(23)/14/15,HP 46/46 Character Monday January 16th, 2023 2:31:16 PM "This looks right, the trees are in the right locations, but it seems almost dormant...." Beech stays ready with the bow, and with a spell , whichever he deems more useful....
Panzer Braun (David F) AC 28 (T16, FF24) CMD 27 HP 87/87 ) Character Sheet d20+4=19 ; Monday January 16th, 2023 2:41:09 PM
Panzer begins systematically searching the "streets" and looks for any sign of the dryads that should be here. Perception 19
Nightingale (JonS) HP 51/51 AC 21 CMD: 21 Know Nature Check: d20+7=22 ; Monday January 16th, 2023 5:53:10 PM
Nightingale feels sadness at what has happened to the Dryad's Grove. She will call out in Sylvan, " Friends, we are back, where have you gone?"
Zazu (AC20, HP52) and Boyo the bunny (AC19, HP26) (Cayzle) Monday January 16th, 2023 6:40:59 PM
Zazu sighs. "We may not find out what we want to know here. The fey folk can't be pinned down at one's beck and call."
"Miss Sahabiel, have you tried casting Divination? Here in a sacred place, maybe that sort of magic can lead us onwards?"
Sahabiel (EstherLauren) -- AC 23/12/22 -- HP: 60/60 Monday January 16th, 2023 7:02:29 PM
Sahabiel listens to Zazu, and replies; "I could prepare a ritual of Divination, but before I can petition the Will of the Wood for that, I am going to need to rest and pray here tonight.. but I suppose we were going to have to make camp for the night here anyway?"
Lothlo (WillD) -- AC: 20/15/16, HP: 56/56, CMD: 23 d20+5=24 ; Monday January 16th, 2023 8:55:21 PM I wonder if they are stuck in the deeper Culverwood or in a state where they could wake up soon. If they are asleep or dormant and we need to keep moving, we should leave a note to fill them in just in case.
Lothlo tries to determine whether this would be similar to the state of the lost dryad they rescued before or something else. knowledge arcana = 24
Good Morning, Culverwood! (DM BatMark) Monday January 16th, 2023 9:33:59 PM Beech notes that you are in the right place, but the grove seems dormant. Panzer searches for signs of the dryads, but finds no recent traces of their presence. Nightingale calls out sadly for your missing dryad friends, but gets no response. Zazu suspects you may not find what you seek here, but suggests that Sahabiel try a divination. Sahabiel supposes that you need to camp for the night anyway, and can petition the Wood for the Divination spell on the morrow. Lothlo wonders whether the dryads are stuck in the deeper Culverwood or might wake up soon. As he ponders the warp and weft of the magic here, he isn’t sure of the answer to that, but does discover that underneath the darker green of the grove’s foliage, there still is light magic pulsing through the place. It seems to come in slow waves from the great old Yew, infusing the lesser trees of the place, perhaps holding the darkness at bay. Naithi seems to be one with the Culverwood at the moment.
Although your investigation is turning up few new clues, you are able to camp safely for the night. The overcast sky in the morning is even darker than usual, but otherwise you experience nothing untoward. Nor do any of the dryads emerge to greet you, even after so much time. Perhaps the dormancy and slow heartbeat of light magic are the dryads’ way of staving off the darkness, much like mundane trees ward off a frigid winter? Certitude eludes you, but it makes the most sense from what you know of nature and magic.
You are able to gain spells for the day as normal. How do our Champions wish to proceed?
Beech (JohnC) AC 19(23)/14/15,HP 46/46 Character Tuesday January 17th, 2023 1:47:26 PM
Beech puts out a cold breakfast, day old biscuits, a couple cheeses and some jam. He rechecks his gear, then says, "Would a small controllable fire help? And no, not a fireball, but a ball of fire. I can keep it from brushing against the trees, if it'll help."
Panzer Braun (David F) AC 28 (T16, FF24) CMD 27 HP 87/87 ) Character Sheet Tuesday January 17th, 2023 5:32:38 PM
Panzer spends the night against Mother Yew's tree. It seems to be the anchor the grove is using to stay 'stable' so he thinks it best to stay near it. Also if Mother Yew Senses him near the tree, she might emerge. Morning breaks and no dryads have yet shown up. Panzer finds this troubling. What he says next is more troubling, but it is what it is. " We need to go deeper.I can't shake the feeling that there is a whole vvillage of dryads sitting next to that blasted hypnotizing pool, slowly wasting away. If this has been going on since winter fell they might be in distress from missing their trees." Panzer asks Beech to use one of the scrolls on him before they go deeper. He stands ready to go.
Sahabiel (EstherLauren) -- AC 23/12/22 -- HP: 60/60 Tuesday January 17th, 2023 8:23:48 PM
Sahabiel prays for the Wood to grant her a Divination today. (Spell selection updated)
Now, she just needs to come up with the right question, and the right materials... fortunately, as a rather skilled herbalist surrounded by magical forest, a herbal incense of the requisite value for the ritual should be about one or two hour's work.
Profession(herbalist), Take10 on d20+11 for automatic 21. Slight issue - almost all the information on herbalism, including gathering DCs and gold piece value, is in non-core books. So I can only hope our DMs will agree that under the circumstances, DC20 is a reasonable target for what I need it to do right now.
"Does anyone have a better idea for what answer I should seek of the Culverwood than what can be done to stop this darkening? I understand if some of ya might be tempted to ask where our allies are, but if that comes back as them being dormant in their trees, knowing that wouldn't actually help us forward.."
Lothlo (WillD) -- AC: 20/15/16, HP: 56/56, CMD: 23 Tuesday January 17th, 2023 8:54:25 PM I'm afraid my best suggestion is head deeper and hope we aren't instantly surrounded by darkness.
1,2,3 Plans... (DM BatMark) Tuesday January 17th, 2023 9:46:35 PM Beech starts a cold breakfast and wonders whether a small, controlled fire would help. Panzer snuggles up with Grandmother Yew overnight, and wakes up refreshed–more so than he ought to be feeling having slept like that. Perhaps the pulse of internal light from the grand old yew has invigorated him! His initial inclination is to go deeper, in case the dryads are all trapped, and asks Beech to use a scroll on him. Sahabiel successfully gathers materials for her divination, made simpler by being an herbalist in a wood. She takes counsel from her friends regarding the question to ask. Lothlo seconds Panzer’s idea of going deeper, hoping that you won’t be instantly surrounded by darkness. Zazu, Naithi, andNightingale ponder before weighing in.
So there seems to be some lack of unity regarding what to do next. Live in the moment and maybe have a warm breakfast? Wait for Sahabiel to seek divine guidance from the Culverwood? Or plunge Deeper? Perhaps the others will break the deadlock. What say you all?
Zazu (AC20, HP52) and Boyo the bunny (AC19, HP26) (Cayzle) Tuesday January 17th, 2023 10:29:03 PM
Zazu thinks lighting a fire in the Culverwood is always a bad idea. "I should probably buy a Temperature Control spell for my book," the wizard mutters.
Nightingale (JonS) HP 51/51 AC 21 CMD: 21 Wednesday January 18th, 2023 2:15:53 AM
Nightingale is saddened that no dryads have appeared, and that Grandmother Yew didn't seem to mind sharing the night with Panzer. After thinking while eating biscuits and jam she looks at Sahabiel, "Cousin, I agree that our journey is going to take us into the Deeper, perhaps ask the 'Wood if there a a specific place we should visit to begin undoing all this darkness."
Beech (JohnC) AC 19(23)/14/15,HP 46/46 Character Wednesday January 18th, 2023 1:29:22 PM
Beech says, "When you figure where or how deep we're going, I can move us deeper when we're ready. And Panzer, I'll cast on you just before we go deeper, making the spell last as long as possible.... So, take your time, get the answer or answers to whatever you ask, then we'll go. I'm not a seer, my mom dabbled in that, but she is also considered a shaman to the tribe, so I guess that fits."
Naithi (JamesD) AC: 24/16/19 HP: 68/68 , CMD = 18 Camalayas AC = 22/16/16 Wednesday January 18th, 2023 1:31:07 PM
Naithi shakes her head as she focuses back on her surrounding, no longer deep in thought
ooc: I'm catching up now. I've been dealing with two sick kids.
Naithi (JamesD) AC: 24/16/19 HP: 68/68 , CMD = 18 Camalayas AC = 22/16/16 Wednesday January 18th, 2023 1:49:57 PM
Upon walking Naithi prepares a much more useful array of spells, including speak with plants. [b] I'm going to cast speak with plants on myself and speak with the Great Old Yew that seems to be winning something and keeping the darkness at bay.
Please relay your questions to me so I can ask them as quickly as possible. My time will be limited (even if speaking is a few action I don't expect we will get unlimited time ;)
I have several questions to ask... About the darkness, what it is eminating, where the dryad's are, how to help, etc. However I could use some help in asking them as clearly and sistinctly as possible.
ooc: Also, I'm hoping the DM grants me a little latitude in assuming that as a Druid Naithi knows better than I do what questions to ask the plant so I'm not treating it as much smarter or dumber than it actually is.
Panzer Braun (David F) AC 28 (T16, FF24) CMD 27 HP 87/87 ) Character Sheet Wednesday January 18th, 2023 5:52:34 PM " do your recon. I'm ready to go when you all get your answers."
Sahabiel (EstherLauren) -- AC 23/12/22 -- HP: 60/60 d100=29 ; Wednesday January 18th, 2023 7:32:18 PM
Sahabiel nods at her companions. What to do now or where to go now, it is all the same thing to a being of divine scope really - for travel too is an action taken, and any action can set one on a path to something or somewhere. With that in mind, she begins her ritual and places her faith in it that since she asks guidance in the Wood's own interest, the Will of the Wood will have every reason to guide them true by its own best estimation.
"A Adhmaid Dhraíochta neartmhair, cén cosán ar chóir dúinn siúl as seo a thugann an seans is fearr dúinn leigheas a thabhairt don dorchadas a chuaigh i gcion ort?" Highlight to display spoiler: {("O Mighty Culverwood, What course should we follow from here that gives us the best chances of giving remedy to the darkness that has befallen you?")}
Chance of succesful divination: 78%, d100 with success on 78 or lower: 29, success!
(ooc: My sincere apologies to anyone here that actually speaks Irish Gaelic -- I use it as a template for Sahabiel speaking Sylvan ;)
Lothlo (WillD) -- AC: 20/15/16, HP: 56/56, CMD: 23 d20+15=19 ; Wednesday January 18th, 2023 8:44:03 PM It's definitely worth taking a few minutes to get any extra information we can before heading in. It would be foolish not to at least try. I'll keep watch while you work your magic.
Perception = 19
Speaking in Many Tongues (DM BatMark) Wednesday January 18th, 2023 9:34:13 PM Zazu thinks lighting a fire in the wood is not a good idea, and considers learning a spell to help in the future. Nightingale is saddened by the state of the grove, agrees that going deeper is the way to go, and suggests a question for Sahabiel. Beech figures he can move you deeper when it is time to go, and is ready to cast Panzer’s spell at the last moment. Naithi gets her head back in the present, having been quite rightly distracted by the state of those she cares about. She is ready to cast ‘speak with plants’ to help learn more about the situation, and solicits ideas for questions to ask. (OOC: The DM will certainly grant some latitude, but need your basic questions to work with, once the party helps you out.) Panzer is ready to go when recon is done. Sahabiel beseeches the Culverwood for guidance, and her lips move oddly as she says in a voice that creaks like a tree in the wind, “Is e an dachaigh far a bheil an solas agad as motha a dhìth.” Sahabiel Highlight to display spoiler: {Home is where your light is most needed} Lothlo agrees that gaining information is wise before heading in, and keeps watch during the divinations.
Sahabiel’s eyes light up (figuratively) when she channels the power of the Culverwood for a brief moment, but soon returns to her normal mien. Will what has been revealed to her guide your steps? What more can Naithi learn by speaking to the yew? What questions should she ask?
Zazu (AC20, HP52) and Boyo the bunny (AC19, HP26) (Cayzle) Wednesday January 18th, 2023 10:46:58 PM
"Did it work? Did it work?" asks Zazu.
The reduced elf bounces up and down in the saddle, and Boyo looks like he wishes bunnies could roll their eyes.
Beech (JohnC) AC 19(23)/14/15,HP 46/46 Character Thursday January 19th, 2023 2:12:55 PM
Beech, even though not very good at it, keeps watch, because this divination stuff, is not his thing. He's waiting to be told when to take the group deeper....
Nightingale (JonS) HP 51/51 AC 21 CMD: 21 Thursday January 19th, 2023 4:59:00 PM
With Sahabiel and Naithi both communing through magic with the 'Wood, she will keep a weather eye out for trouble as Beech is doing
Panzer Braun (David F) AC 28 (T16, FF24) CMD 27 HP 87/87 ) Character Sheet Thursday January 19th, 2023 5:20:07 PM
Panzer doesn't speak Sylvan so he just sorta stands around waiting to know what's going on.
Sahabiel (EstherLauren) -- AC 23/12/22 -- HP: 60/60 Thursday January 19th, 2023 6:51:10 PM Jokingly: Sahabiel is left reeling from the words the Will of the Wood speaks to her, as she realizes the true depths to which this gloom has altered her beloved Culverwood -- the Wood has turned Scottish! (ooc: I used Irish Gaelic, you answered in Scot Gaelic - as a stereotype, that is such a spot on mood signal for switching from a place portrayed as cheerful, to one painted often as gloomy, intentional or not! xD )
Smelling slightly now of incense, Sahabiel shares the result of her Divination with the others. "The Will of the Wood, it told me... 'Home is where your light is most needed'. I... think it might not want us to right now be delving blindly into the deeper layers?" She thinks about what she should do now then. "I hope Naithi's magic is going to learn more of course. But as a last resort before we might have to call our visit here as having been to no avail, I could use the prayer of Sending to send a message to Quercia, mind to mind - even if she is dormant in her tree, that might get through to her attention? And she'd only have to think the words to send a reply." In any case, she will wait for Naithi to exhaust those other options first.
Lothlo (WillD) -- AC: 20/15/16, HP: 56/56, CMD: 23 d20+5=17 ; Thursday January 19th, 2023 9:14:24 PM
Lothlo nods as he listens to Sahabiel's interpretation. That's what I thought when I heard the answer... I fear the woods may be telling us we made the wrong choice by coming here and we need to return home ASAP! While pretty sure that the message is telling them they are needed at their village, Lothlo notes that "home" and "light" could have specific meanings in the Culverwood and tries to think if he's ever heard reference to these in Culverwood stories and history to make sure there isn't something they might be missing in their message.
Knowledge (local)=17
Yew Who (DM BatMark) Thursday January 19th, 2023 10:03:39 PM Zazu excitedly wonders whether the spells worked. Beech keeps waiting to go deeper. Nightingale looks out for trouble. Panzer waits for an explanation. Sahabiel, after shaking off the gloomy tone of the Culverwood’s message, relays what she learned. To wit, “Home is where your light is most needed.” (OOC: I wish I could say that I did that lingo change on purpose, what with having some McCarter blood coursing through my veins, but alas, it was just me grabbing the online translation too quickly to notice. I like your interpretation, though!) Lothlo agrees that the Wood seems to be telling you to go home. He tries to recall whether ‘home’ and ‘light’ have special meaning here, but nothing leaps to mind. Naithi speaks to the old yew. It’s voice slowly, grumblingly stirs to life.
It would seem that you have a chance to ask the yew some questions…
Zazu (AC20, HP52) and Boyo the bunny (AC19, HP26) (Cayzle) Thursday January 19th, 2023 10:41:51 PM
"What do yew know about the darkness? What is yew-neek about it? If we get some drizzles or even a big storm under a certain night sky, will yew rain us?"
"OW!"
"Boyo! Why did you bite me? I mean, why did YEW bite me?"
"OW!"
Naithi (JamesD) AC: 24/16/19 HP: 68/68 , CMD = 18 Camalayas AC = 22/16/16 Friday January 20th, 2023 2:51:21 PM
Naithi relies on the others for help as diplomacy isn't her greatest skill. We want to know about the recent changes have happened here. Where have the dryad's give? What is this darkness and are you holding if back?
Nightingale (JonS) HP 51/51 AC 21 CMD: 21 Friday January 20th, 2023 3:19:05 PM
Nightingale snickers at Zazu's comments, and even a little more as Boyo shows their displeasure at the comments
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