Lothlo (WillD) -- AC: 20/15/16, HP: 56/56, CMD: 23 d20+15=29 ; Thursday February 23rd, 2023 7:17:16 PM Hopefully the negative prevented any vines or anything of that sort from having sprung up to welcome us, but it's best we don't let our guards down. Lothlo surveys the hunting grounds as well, both looking for the negative, and for any signs of danger either from the normal animals of the area or dangers that might have sprung from the shards.
Perception = 29
DM Jon-Paul | Roots & Vines Map Thursday February 23rd, 2023 9:30:15 PM Beech Prepares for the day with his spells and his bow. Nightingale also, prepares the day's spells. Sahabiel prepares and atop her warhorse, begins her tracking skills to determine the best way forward & to the pond! Lothlo is hopeful about the negative shard. He will also aid in survival skills. -=-=-=-=-=-=-=- The ground is soft and the trail is less than 24 hours old.
Sahabiel, please roll 10 each Survival DC 15 checks. For every failure, have everyone else roll Perception DC 20 to see a print and get You back on course.
Panzer Braun (David F) AC 28 (T16, FF24) CMD 27 HP 81/87 ) Character Sheet d20+4=22 ; d20+6=7 ; Thursday February 23rd, 2023 10:40:42 PM
Panzer assumes a position next to Sahabiel . He lets her do her thing following the path and keeps an eye out for trouble. Perception 22 Aid another Survival 7
Zazu (AC20, HP52) and Boyo the bunny (AC19, HP26) (Cayzle) Thursday February 23rd, 2023 10:46:10 PM
Mounted on Boyo and keeping a sharp eye open, Zazu says, "Maybe I can help with that."
Zazu, a forest-born elf, uses Aid Another on those tracking rolls to help Sahabiel. Since Zazu's modifier os +9, that's an auto success to hit DC10. Thus, Sahabiel should have a +2 on each of those rolls.
If the trail is lost, Zazu's Perception checks are at +21, and so the elf sets the party back on track each and every time, no roll needed for a DC20.
"My eyes are like unto those of an eagle!" Zazu giggles. "Or at least, these nice spectacles I'm wearing are!"
Nightingale (JonS) HP 51/51 AC 21 CMD: 21 Friday February 24th, 2023 1:41:12 PM
Nightingale will look down at her boots and then offers, "Not that I want to split the party, but if we see something ahead of us, I can run ahead and check whatever 'IT' is out..."
Beech (JohnC) AC 19(23)/14/15,HP 46/46 Character d20=16 ; Friday February 24th, 2023 3:05:39 PM
Beech, keeping is comments to himself for once... Has his bow ready in case it's needed, He is always ready to cast a spell already so....
Perception 16
Sahabiel (EstherLauren) -- AC 25/14/24 -- HP: 60/60 d20+18=32 ; d20+18=22 ; d20+18=28 ; d20+18=36 ; d20+18=24 ; d20+18=28 ; d20+18=31 ; d20+18=26 ; d20+18=27 ; d20+18=24 ; Friday February 24th, 2023 5:43:19 PM Result from ten consecutive Survival checks: 32, 22, 28, 36, 24, 28, 31, 26, 27, 24. Made vs DC 15, none of those are failed checks.
Sahabiel seems to be quite steady in her wayfinding as the party makes progress.
Naithi (JamesD) AC: 24/16/19 HP: 51/68 , CMD = 18 Camalayas AC = 22/16/16 Friday February 24th, 2023 7:40:53 PM
Naithi and Camalayas follow the group and help when they can. Her tracking skills are good, but Sahabiel does not appear to need any help. Instead she keeps her eyes peeled for danger.
ooc: Sorry for disappearing. We have a house full of sick kids, one with pneumonia, and just got 2 feet of snow. Our Internet had been craving as well because everyone was snowed in and using Netflix.
DM OOC: No worries, we just wanted to know you were alright. Any parent will know family comes first...and when they're sick...even more so. Glad to see you back. You feeling better?
Lothlo (WillD) -- AC: 20/15/16, HP: 56/56, CMD: 23 d20+15=17 ; Friday February 24th, 2023 7:41:44 PM
Lothlo keeps an eye out for prints, but Sahabiel's keen eye beats him to the prints every time.
DM Jon-Paul | Roots & Vines Map Friday February 24th, 2023 9:00:12 PM Zazu , Mounted on Boyo and keeping a sharp eye open, Zazu says, "Maybe I can help with that."
Beech keeping his comments to himself for once... Has his bow ready in case it's needed, He is always ready to cast a spell already so...
Naithi and Camalayas follow the group and help when they can. Her tracking skills are good, but Sahabiel does not appear to need any help. Instead, she keeps her eyes peeled for danger.
Nightingalewill look down at her boots and then offers, "Not that I want to split the party, but if we see something ahead of us, I can run ahead and check whatever 'IT' is out..."
Sahabiel seems to be quite steady in her wayfinding as the party makes progress.
Lothlo keeps an eye out for prints, but Sahabiel's keen eye beats him to the prints every time.
Panzer assumes a position next to Sahabiel. He lets her do her thing following the path and keeps an eye out for trouble. -=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-
With the awesome skills of your lead tracker, Sahabiel, the group has no issues following the day-old tracks made by Whihl the hunter. The group successfully navigates the ten miles to the aforementioned hunting grounds. While here, you come upon 5 little creatures seemingly barring your way forward.
Everyone making a perception check DC 15 Highlight to display spoiler: {You see 5 tiny, vaguely humanoid creature that seems to be made completely of bundles of sticks wound with thorny vines. }
Everyone making a perception check DC 20 Highlight to display spoiler: {You see the tiny, vaguely humanoid creatures consisting of Gnarled sticks bundled by vines and brambles form their entire body. }
Everyone making a Knowledge (Nature) check DC 13 Highlight to display spoiler: { You see 5 TwigJacks barring your way forward. You are also surrounded by bushes.}
Everyone making a Knowledge (Nature) check DC 18 Highlight to display spoiler: { Deep in old-growth forests, Twigjacks spend their time tormenting intruders and wreaking havoc on settlers. }
Everyone making a Knowledge (Nature) check DC 23 Highlight to display spoiler: { Twigjacks resent being considered plants, and are proud of their fey heritage. }
Everyone making a Knowledge (Nature) check DC 28 Highlight to display spoiler: { Twigjacks weakness is fire. }
Panzer Braun (David F) AC 28 (T16, FF24) CMD 27 HP 81/87 ) Character Sheet d20+4=24 ; d20=3 ; Sunday February 26th, 2023 11:59:25 AM
perception 24 Sense Motive 3 " Sahabiel, are these guys going to attack us? They seem OK, but I don't know what kinda plant things they are." Panzer keeps his weapons out but doesn't advance or threaten the figures , waiting for those that know better to guide him.
Beech (JohnC) AC 19(23)/14/15,HP 46/46 Character d20=5 ; 8d6=25 ; Sunday February 26th, 2023 1:00:40 PM
Beech has no idea what they are, "Panzer, you say they're plant things, I'm betting fire kills them like it does most plants, just need to know if I'm cleared to deliver a party favor or not. But on first hostile act on their part, I drop them a gift anyways...."
On the very 1st hostile action from whatever is facing us, I drop a fireball to catch as many as I can....
Fireball, Damage 25, DC 18 for 1/2
Nightingale (JonS) HP 51/51 AC 21 CMD: 21 Perc Check: d20+10=13 ; Know Nature: d20+7=9 ; Sunday February 26th, 2023 1:50:22 PM
While looking at the wood and nature around her, Nightingale tries to keep a "weather eye" out for danger or oddness .... ohh look a squirrel, and a butterfly
Sahabiel (EstherLauren) -- AC 25/14/24 -- HP: 60/60 d20+7=8 ; d20+7=27 ; d20+12=19 ; Monday February 27th, 2023 10:54:33 AM Initial perception check: Nat 1. Not having that since it would look really out of line with how well her scouting was going and just when everyone was counting on her. Using a Hero Point to reroll. New result: Nat 20. Now that is why they call them hero points, right? ;) Perception: 27, Knowledge (Nature): 19
Sahabiel has a lucky moment of perceptiveness, and notices the creatures well up ahead. "Wait, those are.. oh. Oh!" She sounds not too pleased with what she sees. Answering Panzer and Beech, she softly speaks; "...they're Twigjacks. A kind of fey - the troublesome kind. I may be able to make use of them, but Beech - don't ya put that spell I see ya getting ready for too far away. In fact, do look scary. We may well need it if this doesn't work out."
She nods to one of the other companions. "Naithi! Please follow by my side, if ya would?"
In addition, Panzer steps up with Sahabiel and Naithi.
Sahabiel dismounts from Kohlrabi, and starts walking towards the little gathering of twig-bundle creatures. Right when she comes into their presence (move action), she does two things - she floods her aura with the power of the Culverwood by expending one daily use of her Channel Energy ability (standard action), and at the same time (free action) she briefly activates her own Bramble Armor while performing a traditional gesture of greeting.
<"Greetings, little ones. Is this land under your protection?">, she speaks in the Sylvan fey tongue.
Now the long ooc explanation of what she is doing here and why and what I hope it will establish;
Being from a community deep inside the magical Culverwood that has always known the fey among its neighbors, Sahabiel has recognized these little fey beings. Now here is the thing - she knows these are low-tiered fey. They have a dangerous cunning, yes, but they are not among the supernaturally clever or wise fey races - no smarter than the average commoner really. And they have no magical way of just knowing who or even what Sahabiel is.
So all the Twigjacks have is their senses, which means that (A) they see a woman with pointed ears, verdant forest green skin, and brown hair, who (B) speaks the fey language fluently and (C) effortlessly wraps herself in brambles just like them just to deliver a greeting. Then (D) in Pathfinder only very powerful creatures, or divine spellcasters over 5th level have a strong aura that can be intuitively felt by creatures sensitive to that -- e.g. by fey. So low tier fey'd instinctively get a sense that this woman is wrapped in a powerful aura that reveals her as a Chaotic Good being, and tastes of the power of the Culverwood itself. (E) By bringing Naithi and Camalayas along, she is showing herself with a second person with a powerful presence of aura only a little less strong than Sahabiel's, with two aditional benefits - Naithi's aura being that of one very close to fey herself, and that Naithi is still blessed with Dryad's Favor since the riddle contest scene. (Not asking James to use that ability here, but it is just there)
So, behind her saccharine smile and friendly greeting, Sahabiel is sending kind of a very big "Know your place, you do not want to even think of messing with us - we are not your everyday mere mortals." vibe. She is leaving it to Beech with his large presence in the background (F) and his visible readiness to throw a fireball, to make any Bluff/Intimidate checks here - after all, the Twigjacks should feel less worried about whether Sahabiel might be willing to act against them if they do not listen to her, than they should feel worried that Beech would, and that he is only waiting for a reason to...
Now back to in-character narrative
<"A hunter came here, and took one thing, but left another thing behind. Something that does not belong in the woods. I am here to take that thing away.">, Sahabiel continues speaking at the Twigjacks. <"If you were to prove yourself useful, I would acknowledge your knowledge of this area, and may even reward you for it.">
Character sheet modified: Hero points 6 -> 5
Naithi (JamesD) AC: 24/16/19 HP: 51/68 , CMD = 18 Camalayas AC = 22/16/16 Monday February 27th, 2023 2:51:24 PM
Naithi goes along with Sahabiel. She hopes her aura is of benefit, but doesn't expend it as the lingering aura is more beneficial.
Naithi also respond on Sylvan. Greetings. I am Naithi, and this is Camalayas. We mean you no harm and come in peace.
Beech (JohnC) AC 19(23)/14/15,HP 46/46 Character d20+8=27 ; Monday February 27th, 2023 4:38:49 PM
With his bow in hand, he fingers a seed.... At the least hostile action, he'll throw it, leaving just enough room between his friends and targets so as to curl their eye lashes. (effectively catching the twigs and the flash will stop at the show tips if as needed, if the twigs are that close.... It's hard to be intimidating, but he does a darned good job of making the finger rolling seem scary...
Intimidate 27
Panzer Braun (David F) AC 28 (T16, FF24) CMD 27 HP 81/87 ) Character Sheet Monday February 27th, 2023 5:53:01 PM "I'll be a possum's cousin if I am letting you two walk up there without me to respond to them if they get uppity.Yeah, yeah I know you are both big girls and can handle a little melee, look at it this way. If I walk up with you now and they decide this is their hill to die on I am that much closer."
Panzer knows about two words in Sylvan and they are not 'hi, I'm friendly'. Therefore he has little idea what Sahabiel is saying to the little twiggy's. He might understand that the tone is a bit imperious, but that is a stretch. What he does know is Sahabiel said they are 'the troublesome kind' of fey, so he wants to be close if they start something. He is not very fire resistant but he is willing to live with Beech dropping a fireball in his lap so long as the enemy makes like a twig and burns.It only hurts him once. It hurts them five times.
OOC Please change Panzer waiting for them to do something to Panzer stepping up with Sahabiel and Naithi.
Sahabiel (EstherLauren) -- AC 25/14/24 -- HP: 60/60 Monday February 27th, 2023 6:37:09 PM ( ooc: Panzer is welcome to come along. Having what looks like a talking badger as a bodyguard is not disagreeable with the image of sylvan grandeur Sahabiel is projecting here. )
Lothlo (WillD) -- AC: 20/15/16, HP: 56/56, CMD: 23 d20+5=15 ; d20+15=32 ; d20+11=22 ; Monday February 27th, 2023 6:54:06 PM
Lothlo listens to the others describe the creatures in front of him. Hmm, fey. I wonder if they are here to try to keep the shard from causing harm to the Wold... or if they are looking for the shard because they intend to use it to cause harm. Hopefully they speak Sylvan and want to talk.
Greetings friends. At least I hope you are friends. I don't believe we have seen you on this island before. Is there anything we can assist you with?
Beech has no idea what they are, "Panzer, you say they're plant things, I'm betting fire kills them like it does most plants, just need to know if I'm cleared to deliver a party favor or not. But on the first hostile act on their part, I drop them a gift anyways...." It's hard to be intimidating, but he does a darned good job of making the finger-rolling seem scary...
Naithi and Camalayas Naithi & Camalayas goes along with Sahabiel. She hopes her aura is of benefit but doesn't expend it as the lingering aura is more beneficial.
Nightingale While looking at the wood and nature around her, Nightingale tries to keep a "weather eye" out for danger or oddness .... ohh look a squirrel and a butterfly!
Sahabiel knows what these creatures & put on a strong showing of Fey diplomacy with friends to speak with the Twigjacks.
Lothlo listens to the others describe the creatures in front of him. He then wonders if they are friends or foes. Next, he will use Diplomacy when the time comes.
Panzer keeps his weapons out but doesn't advance or threaten the figures, waiting for those that know better to guide him. Panzer steps up with Sahabiel and Naithi. -=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=- When Sahabiel steps forward into the area that contains the five (5) TwigJacks, the TwigJacks shift uncomfortably, as they sense a group of Very Competent Heroes. The TwigJacks listen to Lady Sahabiel and her friends but sense the motives behind her words. When finished, the TwigJack leader amble forward a bit to stand out and begin with, Sylvan, his opening volley:
"Ah, My'Lady, we are humbled by your presence so deep into our forest, to what do we owe the pleasure of your visit?" He pauses for effect, then continues, whatever it is, we only ask for rewards of food and sparklies for information, for that is why you visit with us, yes to parlay?
Sahabiel,& Naithi please make a sense motive check against DC 13: Highlight to display spoiler: { You know something is up and your senses tell you that the leader is vying for the upper hand.}
Sahabiel, & Naithi please make a sense motive check against DC 18: Highlight to display spoiler: { The leader is trying to show strength in opposing numbers.}
Sahabiel, & Naithi please make a sense motive check against DC 23: Highlight to display spoiler: { You can sense the TwigJacks have greater numbers.}
Zazu (AC20, HP52) and Boyo the bunny (AC19, HP26) (Cayzle) Monday February 27th, 2023 10:19:09 PM
Nervous, Zazu casts Invisibility affecting both wizard and familiar.
Nightingale (JonS) HP 51/51 AC 21 CMD: 21 Tuesday February 28th, 2023 2:03:34 AM
Once Nightingale realizes that something is happening, she will pay attention to what is going on around her.
Zazu (AC20, HP52) and Boyo the bunny (AC19, HP26) (Cayzle) d20+9=17 ; d20+9=23 ; Tuesday February 28th, 2023 6:35:51 PM
Zazu has a hunch, and senses motive on Sahabiel, & Naithi!
Sense Motive checks 17 and 23!
Naithi (JamesD) AC: 24/16/19 HP: 51/68 , CMD = 18 Camalayas AC = 22/16/16 d20+5=18 ; d20+2=10 ; Tuesday February 28th, 2023 6:38:47 PM
Naithi realizes that the leader is trying to gain the upper hand and show strength in numbers.
She lets Sahabiel take the lead in the conversation, but will offer up her trail rations, gold and gems received as loot, and gingerbread cookies from the Giggling Ghost. She also has a variety of wild food collected from the Culverwood.
Naithi (JamesD) AC: 24/16/19 HP: 51/68 , CMD = 18 Camalayas AC = 22/16/16 Tuesday February 28th, 2023 6:39:58 PM
Naithi will try to signal her findings so the group discreetly... But I cannot remember what type of roll that is.
DM OOC: Bluff for Secret Messaging.
Beech (JohnC) AC 19(23)/14/15,HP 46/46 Character Tuesday February 28th, 2023 7:21:49 PM
Beech, seeing they ignored his attempt to intimidate them, and considers his options...... All of which include Fire.... He still thinks of them as plants, not mattering what they are.....
Lothlo (WillD) -- AC: 20/15/16, HP: 56/56, CMD: 23 d20+15=18 ; Tuesday February 28th, 2023 8:22:29 PM
Lothlo reaches into his pocket and pulls out a trinket. I have a beautiful colorful bauble I won at a festival a while back that I've been hanging on to which I'm happy to offer. Lothlo continues to scan the area for signs of threats while the others talk.
Perception = 18
Sahabiel (EstherLauren) -- AC 25/14/24 -- HP: 60/60 d20+5=10 ; Tuesday February 28th, 2023 8:56:30 PM Sense Motive d20+5 = 10, fail
Sahabiel raises an eyebrow when the Twigjack leader speaks of her coming deep into their forest. While this is indeed a rather more forested spot on the edge of the Emerald Kingdom, she feels that.. well, by her own standards from being born and raised inside the depths of the Culverwood, anyone calling this “deep in the forest” has never been proper deep in a truly old-growth forest. Perhaps distracted by that thought, she does not pick up on everything the Twigjack was doing, but thankfully Naithi is there quickly signalling to her that the Twigjack leader acts like they are up to something... something about the number of them? Sahabiel did previously take notice that this little clear spot where the Twigjacks were waiting for them is conspicuously surrounded by bushes...
She carries on her conversation with the leading Twigjack. She can not really fault it for seeking to get the best out of the encounter for themself, and she had sort of expected that anyway. At least it is becoming clearer why Whihl looked like such a bundle of nerves about going back to this hunting ground… whatever tricks these unkind fey may have done to him, it is actually rather surprising to her that Whihl was able to go hunting in a Twigjack infested area and come back with his life at all! As far as she is concerned, unless somehow these fey can be made to leave the area, nobody should risk themselves coming into their domain – there are surely other hunting grounds within ten miles from the village that are not aggressively guarded by hostile fey…!
The thought also occurs to her that should she later find out that Whihl knew about these fey living here, then she is personally handing that hunter over to Panzer for.. a necessary talking to.
<“Parlay, indeed. And food and.. sparklies.. can be arranged, if we reach agreement. First, I would know from where to where your clan’s grounds stretch, so that I’ll know how much of the matters that brought me here would be of concern to you. Know this - we have learned of at least two great vile outside forces intruding on the Culverwood, so do not seek to pretend your clan holds greater claims than it can truly defend should it come to it - for it would come back to bite you if you made me believe you have things well in hand over here when you do not. Little as your kin and mine normally have to do with each other, I do respect you protecting your forest home, and I would regret to see it fall to the decay brought by the outsiders. On this much our goals align, that I as you would keep the deep wood pure, even if our methods differ. Will you side with me this day then, and either help or at least not hinder us as we remove one outsider influence that was seen near here?”>
Really hoping to win over the Twigjacks, she crouches and extends a hand invitingly. <“On this I will give an oath, that while you live here, I will lend my own power to discourage hunters from coming here again.”> If the little fey figure seems receptive, Sahabiel is willing to seal such a promise, which she certainly does intend to keep (because she is going to mark a Twigjack clan as a big no-go on the map for all the village’s hunters!), by planting a kiss upon the moss atop the Twigjack leader’s head.
Zazu Nervous, Zazu casts Invisibility affecting both wizard and familiar. Zazu has a hunch, and senses motive on Sahabiel, & Naithi! Beech seeing they ignored his attempt to intimidate them, considers his options...... All of which include Fire... He still thinks of them as plants, no matter what they are... Naithi and Camalayas realize that the leader is trying to gain the upper hand and show strength in numbers. Nightingale, Once she realizes that something is happening, she will pay attention to what is going on around her. Sahabiel engages with the TwigJack leader even though she knows he is on the opposing side. She takes in all she is learning so as to mark and warn others of this area. In addition, she seals the promises with a kiss. Lothlo reaches into his pocket and pulls out a trinket. I have a beautiful colorful bauble I won at a festival a while back that I've been hanging on to which I'm happy to offer.
-=-=-=-=-=-=-=--=-=-=-=-=-=-=- The TwigJack leader thinks about Sahabiel's offering for a few minutes. He then steps forward, closer to Lady Sahabiel, and extends his hand to shake on this arrangement Lady Sahabiel has offered. He then bows his head slightly awaiting the sealing kiss. The TwigJack leader even appears to beam. Once concluded, the TwigJack leader just as easily & quickly switches pitches. The TwigJack leader is willing to trade information for rewards of food and sparklies, as aforementioned. Initially, his demand for whatever information you seek is:
1 bauble & 1 foodstuff each: there are 7 of you, so 7 baubles & 7 foodstuffs.
The TwigJack leader says, "If you find this barter too steep, we could always play a game & give you a chance to get the information for a cheaper fee. What say you?"
Panzer Braun (David F) AC 28 (T16, FF24) CMD 27 HP 81/87 ) Character Sheet d20+4=10 ; d20=5 ; Tuesday February 28th, 2023 11:52:28 PM
Paanzer winces internally as Sahabiel allos the Twigjack into her space to seal her deal. Hw doesn't know what this dal is tough because he doesn't speak Sylvan. Instead he keeps his eye on the other Twifjacks and triues to gauge their mood. Perception 10 Sense Motive 5
Zazu (AC20, HP52) and Boyo the bunny (AC19, HP26) (Cayzle) Wednesday March 1st, 2023 8:47:08 AM
Zazu listens intently, and finally begins to understand what is going on here.
As an elf who speaks Sylvan, Zazu translates for those who need help. And especially explains that the fey want a bauble and a tasty treat from everybody.
Zazu offers a little box that gives a nasty shock to anyone who opens it. "Be very very careful! You could kill yourself with this. That said, it is the kind of trick I think you would enjoy." (This is one of Zazu's two remaining Glyph-trapped boxes; this one is trapped with electricity.)
"And I have some crunchy trail rations for you to enjoy."
As an aside, the elf whispers to Sahabiel, "You're doing a great job here!"
[OOC: Zazu is still invisible, and delivers the box and rations via ranged legerdemain.]
Lothlo (WillD) -- AC: 20/15/16, HP: 56/56, CMD: 23 Wednesday March 1st, 2023 3:39:57 PM I am happy to let you have my colorful bauble. As for food, I have some trail rations as well that I can offer for the information.
Sahabiel (EstherLauren) -- AC 25/14/24 -- HP: 60/60 Wednesday March 1st, 2023 7:35:39 PM (ooc: sorry, a slightly rushed post tonight - I have some ideas I think you'll like very much, but I will need to know if we are already on the island in the pond where this encounter is taking place, or not yet?)
DM OOC: No, you are in the vicinity, but not there yet...
Sahabiel finds the terms of the fey acceptable. When given the choice between paying a price that she can afford, or to get involved in what the fey might consider a game, the first is almost always the preferable option..
She looks over to Beech, who for as long as she has traveled with the Champions tends to do the camp cooking during their longer stops... "We will barter for information. Sir Beech, it might be early for lunch, but might I impose on ya to set up the cooking gear and prepare for our fey hosts seven fey-sized servings of something good? And.. if there could be some extra? Our hosts may have an appetite for seconds, and we for information."
(ooc: Sahabiel means to make use of the fact that seeing and smelling food being prepared makes you want it more, thus raising the perceived desirability of the food to the fey by the time they receive it)
Being on top of the negotiations, when she sees one of Zazu's explosive trick boxes being added to the offerings with no more than a cryptic warning about its nature, she politely intervenes and urgently impresses that item's trickster nature on the Twigjack, and that the box should never be opened and instead be used to play a trick on one they wish harm. As much as Sahabiel appreciates Zazu's whimsical nature, getting her conversation partner blown up because of unclear usage instructions would certainly set these talks back.
(ooc: Sahabiel actually does carry quite a selection of tradeable precious stones and gems on her person, since she uses them as just an easier to carry form of higher value coins, but I have never needed to set individual types or values to them.. since however one of the key features of Freedom Landing is that we have access to freshwater pearl oysters and crafting shiny mother-of-pearl fashion accessories and haberdasheries was our highest value trade with the guild in Karri, I think it is safe to assume she is going to have at least a few polished freshwater pearls on her person?)
DM OOC: one could be persuaded to believe so...
Beech (JohnC) AC 19(23)/14/15,HP 46/46 Character Wednesday March 1st, 2023 9:48:12 PM
Beech, being asked to do something, other than cook Fey, hesitates only a few moments to stow his bow. He will then pull out a couple pans, and then ask, "Need some help making a stone ring, to keep the fire contained." He pulls out some staples that he always carries and if no one helps by making a fire ring, he's go about it, then start up a fire. It all takes time, and a fireball is quicker, but he knows it would anger his friends...
(no cooking roll as just setting up fire pit and stuff fire) The seed is still extremely handy if or when it's needed....
Naithi (JamesD) AC: 24/16/19 HP: 51/68 , CMD = 18 Camalayas AC = 22/16/16 Wednesday March 1st, 2023 10:15:35 PM
Naithi checks her pockets and realizes the she has more items in her than she remembered!
As a token of our appreciation for your knowledge I would like to offer in trade some delicacies of our region that I personally discovered and collected. This bag contains a large variety of spices and ingredients including a variety of mushrooms and fresh water mussels and fish that have been preserved to be used in soups and stews. I also have trail rations, ale, or gingerbread cookies (from the G.G.) if you prefer.
As for baubles, will trust you to know the worth of your information. I have a variety of mother of pearl I collected, multi colored stones (Lego caltrops from the G.G.), or a platinum and Garnett cloak pin (600gp value). I also have a piece of special meat that is laced with a sleep potion and will put the the eater to sleep. It is nice for escaping animals that you need to get past without hurting them.
I also have a second bag I would be willing to trade in exchange for any local seeds, seasoning, and recipes you may have. Trying the various foods of the Wold is a great joy to me and I'm always looking to try something new.
ooc: I found our old loot tracker sheet because I recalled claiming a cloak pin and realized I have I forgot to add some items my sheet. The only item not jewels or jewelry is a ring of counter spells. I have the gold, so I'll update my CS ASAP.
Naithi (JamesD) AC: 24/16/19 HP: 51/68 , CMD = 18 Camalayas AC = 22/16/16 Wednesday March 1st, 2023 10:27:56 PM
Naithi helps Beech to set up the stone fire pit and begins cooking with her magic frying pan (magically enchanted with Rose's temp control).
When the fire is done she will turn the red hot coals into a flower and put it in her hair.
DM Jon-Paul | Roots & Vines Map d100=18 ; d20+1=15 ; d20+1=21 ; Wednesday March 1st, 2023 11:41:34 PM Zazu listens intently, and finally begins to understand what is going on here. As an elf who speaks Sylvan, Zazu translates for those who need help. And especially explains that the fey wants a bauble and a tasty treat from everybody. Being the ever-mindful trickster...his gift is his bond! As an aside, the elf whispers to Sahabiel, "You're doing a great job here!"
Beech dabbling with his special seed, Beech, stores it to start prepping his cooking wares then asks for help "Need some help making a stone ring, to keep the fire contained."
Naithi and Camalayas begin to describe both her tasty foodstuffs & baubles, before helping to tender the fire...Naithi helps Beech to set up the stone fire pit and begins cooking with her magic frying pan (magically enchanted with Rose's temp control). When the fire is done she will turn the red hot coals into a flower and put it in her hair.
Sahabiel knowing the nature of the TwigJacks, stays on top of both the negotiations and Zazu's ways warning the fey of his Special gifts. Then she moves on to the bartering phase of the discussions.
Lothlo I am happy to let you have my colorful bauble. As for food, I have some trail rations as well that I can offer for the information.
Panzer winces internally as Sahabiel allows the Twigjack into her space to seal her deal. He doesn't know what this dal is tough because he doesn't speak Sylvan. Instead, he keeps his eye on the other Twigjacks and tries to gauge their mood. -=-=-=-=-=-=-=--=-=-=-=-=-=-=- The TwigJacks are most intrigued by the foodstuffs & to a lesser degree, the Sparklies. When Beech and Naithi begin to both tend the fire ring & cook the foodstuffs coupled with the various spices and mushrooms, you get the feeling if the TwigJacks could drool, they would be doing just that!
A couple of the TwigJacks, the two outliers of the five seem to be bauble fascinated. These two are taking great delight in hearing what you have to offer in terms of the baubles.
Everyone makes a Perceptions skill check DC 13 Highlight to display spoiler: { You can hear some of the TwigJacks discussing which is more important; Baubles or Foodstuffs. }
Everyone makes a Perceptions skill check DC 18 Highlight to display spoiler: { You hear one TwigJack whispering to itself what if the biggins don't like the information? Will the take the foodstuffs back?}
Everyone makes a Perceptions skill check DC 23 Highlight to display spoiler: { You hearing one TwigJack whispering to itself that the others might not like this trade & could this go south fast? }
Nightingale (JonS) HP 51/51 AC 21 CMD: 21 PERC d20+10=26 Thursday March 2nd, 2023 11:13:16 AM
ooc: Sorry, work got busy last night
IC: Nightingale hears the "deal" of a shiny and food ... she starts rummaging around ni her Bag of Holding, it actually looks more like her bag is trying to eat he arm....but she pulls out a few things to offer to Sahabiel the dealmaker, "Cousin, will these work as a shiny? Nightingale is holding a couple of 10gp moss agates ... and a small bag of sugar crystal candy
OOC2: Forgot to add roll
Panzer Braun (David F) AC 28 (T16, FF24) CMD 27 HP 81/87 ) Character Sheet d20+4=18 ; Thursday March 2nd, 2023 1:29:00 PM
Perception 18 Panzer hears the whispers about the Bigun's maybe not liking the information. He wonders why we wouldn't like it? He shrugs and drops his pack. Looking through it he finds nothing shiny that they might want. Instead he pulls out most of his food and brings it to Beech. "You trust these guys?" He whispers to Beech.
Beech (JohnC) AC 19(23)/14/15,HP 46/46 Character d20+6=13 ; Thursday March 2nd, 2023 1:30:10 PM
Beech, once the fire is started, will try to cook up a better than trail meal, it probably won't be up to his standards, but that can be fixed with a bit more heat, with spices. What he makes is a rice based dish, with a few veggies and some preserved fish, which the town has plenty of. He makes it a sweet and slightly spicy dish. (think General Tso's flavoring) "This should be enough for the trade, this is an amount I'd make if some would like seconds in our own group." He pulls out his own personal spoon, takes a full spoonful and eats it. ["Not my best, but I'm also using a very makeshift cooking pit." Proving he didn't add anything he wouldn't eat to the dish, without having to say it aloud.
Beech (JohnC) AC 19(23)/14/15,HP 46/46 Character Thursday March 2nd, 2023 1:31:57 PM
Beech will show the peach pit tucked into his belt to Panzer....
Naithi (JamesD) AC: 24/16/19 HP: 51/68 , CMD = 18 Camalayas AC = 22/16/16 d20+2=21 ; d20+13=25 ; Thursday March 2nd, 2023 2:06:25 PM
Naithi finished cooking a hodgepodge of things in her frying pan. Things that don't look like they should go together... But the smell is heavenly! Paella! The paella is all things good: juicy seasoned meats and seafood, tender-crisp beans, and the best part, saffron scented rice with crispy toasty rice bits. It is a dream come true.
Forgive me, but I overheard summer of your conversations. We always do our best not to go back in our word. If you give us the information we seek, then these gifts are yours, even if we don't like the information. We prefer information we don't like over falsehoods or not knowing anything. We just ask that you tell us what you know.
(Note that Naithi stores fresh ingredients magically and just need to dismiss the ability to retrieve them)
Cooking Skill = 21 Perception = 25
Zazu (AC20, HP52) and Boyo the bunny (AC19, HP26) (Cayzle) d20+21=36 ; Thursday March 2nd, 2023 5:53:57 PM
Perception 36
Zazu echoes Naithi's words. In Sylvan, the elf says, "Yeah, no worries. A deal is a deal. But do try hard to give us good info, so that we will bring you more food and stuff in the future."
Lothlo (WillD) -- AC: 20/15/16, HP: 56/56, CMD: 23 d20+15=28 ; Thursday March 2nd, 2023 6:02:42 PM
Lothlo watches as the food is prepared and keeps an eye out for any dangers that may be lurking near by. And even if it's news we wouldn't want to hear, we'd rather find out now than get the bad news after spending hours or days of just to find out the same thing. Perception = 28
Sahabiel (EstherLauren) -- AC 25/14/24 -- HP: 60/60 Thursday March 2nd, 2023 7:46:16 PM
Sahabiel looks on as the Twigjacks almost salivate over freshly prepared food, and so many of her companions producing so many kinds of shinies from their pockets and bags that she has to hold them back a little to avoid there being more than seven in the offering on the table.
Estimating that the fey would most understand things that are either related to trickery, or precious shiny stones that would fit inside the hollows of their bodies so that they can wear them, she sets up Zazu's magic trick box, two each of Nightingale's polished moss agates and Sahabiel's polished freshwater pearls, one of Naithi's mother-of-pearl inlaid objects, and Lothlo's bauble, alongside seven fey-servings of Beech's fresh paella spreading their wonderful aroma.
<"This is what we offer for information. I will consider you to have earned this much, if you give me these simple truths three.">
She smiles, and knows she is deliberately going to make it not too difficult for the Twigjacks to live up to their side of the bargain, because she has a bit of a plan for which it would help to wet their appetite for further dealings.
She raises one finger. <"One truth of the world. I would know where you and your clan have roamed for the past moon, especially the time during which darkness settled under the canopy of the Culverwood.">
A second finger goes up. <"One truth of your experience. I would know what you and your clan have noticed or heard of any changes to the land.">
And then the third to make three. <"One truth of the way. I would know if you or any other in your clan know the way to a certain island that lies in a pond not far from here, an island which a hunter recently visited - and you may show us you know of it by being our guide to there.">
She fixes her eyes on the Twigjack with a well-practiced look of priestly sagacity; <"For depending on what we find there.. I may have a greater task that would be well suited for your kin, and for which I would at that time offer an enduring boon for you and all your clan.">
Sahabiel (EstherLauren) -- AC 25/14/24 -- HP: 60/60 Thursday March 2nd, 2023 7:58:34 PM (ooc: I forgot to roll Perception, but since at least half the party was already hitting that roll out of the park and talking aloud reassuring the fey that we are good for our word on this deal, I am just going to leave my post as it is. Because if anyone might be worried about our willingness to really do this deal, I can't think of anything more reassuring than getting on with actually doing the deal, right? ;)
DM Jon-Paul | Roots & Vines Map d20+1=12 ; Thursday March 2nd, 2023 10:37:32 PM Three Truths
Zazu echoes Naithi's words. In Sylvan, the elf says, "Yeah, no worries. A deal is a deal. But do try hard to give us good info, so that we will bring you more food and stuff in the future."
Beech with his culinary skills, use of spices and the like creates a savory, sweet & slightly spicy dish for the trade. Of course, he "poison" tastes the foodstuff to show the Twigjacks it's safe.
Naithi finished cooking a hodgepodge of things in her frying pan. Things that don't look like they should go together... But the smell is heavenly! Paella! The paella is all things good: juicy seasoned meats and seafood, tender-crisp beans, and the best part, saffron-scented rice with crispy toasty rice bits. It is a dream come true.
Forgive me, but I overheard summer of your conversations. We always do our best not to go back to our word. If you give us the information we seek, then these gifts are yours, even if we don't like the information. We prefer information we don't like over falsehoods or not knowing anything. We just ask that you tell us what you know.
Nightingale hears the "deal" of a shiny food ... she starts rummaging around in her Bag of Holding, it actually looks more like her bag is trying to eat he arm....but she pulls out a few things to offer to Sahabiel the dealmaker, "Cousin, will these work as a shiny? Nightingale is holding a couple of 10gp moss agates ... and a small bag of sugar crystal candy.
Sahabiel looks on as the Twigjacks almost salivate over freshly prepared food and so many of her companions producing so many kinds of shinies from their pockets and bags that she has to hold them back a little to avoid there being more than seven in the offering on the table. She then uses her weirding way to try and bind the TwigJacks to 3 "Truths."
Lothlo watches as the food is prepared and keeps an eye out for any dangers that may be lurking nearby. And even if it's news we wouldn't want to hear, we'd rather find out now than get the bad news after spending hours or days just to find out the same thing.
Panzer hears the whispers about the Bigun's maybe not liking the information. Does he wonder why we wouldn't like it? He shrugs and drops his pack. Looking through it he finds nothing shiny that they might want. Instead, he pulls out most of his food and brings it to Beech. "You trust these guys?" He whispers to Beech. -=-=-=-=-=-=-=--=-=-=-=-=-=-=- The leader of the TwigJacks continues the barter, by saying, "the trade was simple, 1 bauble & 1 foodstuff per biggin for the information you are seeking, which is simply the answer to the Truth of the Way. I will tell you the way, but we will not guide you. It's not our "turf". As for the Culverwood, we do not know of which you speak. This One truth of your experience. We know not of any changes to the land, as our land in here, as he stretches out his arms and twirls around.
Your request for "One truth of the Wold. Since we know not of this darkness, we cannot answer your request.
"Now that our terms have been met, is this agreeable to you? Yes?" says the TwigJack Leader. If you agree, the four other twigJacks begin to move the baubles and Foodstuffs behind them into the brambles. As soon as a TwigJack enters the brambles another comes out empty handed ready to continue the assembly line of moving the agreed-upon barter back into the brambles. It is only the twigjack leader that remains in place.
Everyone makes a perception check DC 13 Highlight to display spoiler: {You aren't 100% certain, but it looks like there are more unique-looking Twigjacks than just 5.}
Everyone makes a perception check DC 18 Highlight to display spoiler: {You decypher that there are about 15 TwigJacks in total.}
Everyone makes a perception check DC 23 Highlight to display spoiler: {You know that between what Sahabiel already said and the numbers counted, a fight would have been ugly.}
Panzer Braun (David F) AC 28 (T16, FF24) CMD 27 HP 81/87 ) Character Sheet d20+4=17 ; Friday March 3rd, 2023 1:47:29 AM
perception 17 Panzer watches the parade of Twigjacks as they collect their bounty and realizes there are more tan 5. How many more he isn't sure but way more than 5. He shrugs. There were way more than 5 rogues in the thieves guild too, and they seemed to be alot tougher than these fey. But any fight he doesn't need to bleed in sounds good to him.
Naithi (JamesD) AC: 24/16/19 HP: 51/68 , CMD = 18 Camalayas AC = 22/16/16 d20+13=20 ; Friday March 3rd, 2023 1:44:22 PM
Naithi counts the number of Twigjack and becomes more curious about their food situation.
Is it difficult finding enough food for all of you out here? Perhaps we could make arrangements to trade more often. Is that something you would be interested in?
Nightingale (JonS) HP 51/51 AC 21 CMD: 21 Perc Check: d20+10=16 ; Friday March 3rd, 2023 2:27:08 PM
Like Panzer, Nightingale is content in letting her "cousin" deal with the interesting little creatures
Beech (JohnC) AC 19(23)/14/15,HP 46/46 Character Friday March 3rd, 2023 4:36:16 PM
Beech, cringes a little at the question Naithi asks, but keeps his mouth shut, yes he understands Sylvan, but sooner than later, we are going to be pitted against someone we call "friends", It's gonna happen, and when it does, it's gonna splatter like a seagulls poo hitting a stone from a couple hundred feet....
Sahabiel (EstherLauren) -- AC 25/14/24 -- HP: 60/60 d20+7=17 ; Friday March 3rd, 2023 7:51:49 PM
Sahabiel too notices the discrepancy in numbers of the Twigjacks... more than they could see must have been hiding, as had been Naithi's reading of the situation earlier. As expected then, and this only validates her belief that a fight here was better avoided.
<"I am satisfied. You have given me your answers, and so in fair exchange the food and shinies are yours. That you might have no knowledge of certain matters, I already accepted as a possibility.>
And even as they are, these answers are not without value. They tell her, for one thing, that these Twigjacks are fairly unsocial and insular, likely having little contact with other fey in the Culverwood despite it being so close by. It also tells her that the darkening of the Culverwood is, for now, limited to the boundaries of the Culverwood indeed, and that the temporary darkening of Freedom Landing must have been an effect of the dark druids' directed attack upon the heroes of the Tree of Parting while they were in the village. For these creatures to have not noticed any changes in their domain, again despite how close this was to the Culverwood, it can not have been a larger phenomenon.
It was a pity that the Twigjacks would not act as guides to the island... but at least she had learned a few useful things, and they had all avoided a nasty fight that would have surely been costly on both sides. An outcome well worth a pot of paella and some replaceable baubles.
Sahabiel will offer a few more servings of the paella, from the extra that Beech prepared, for the leader to elaborate a little more on what they do know about the pond and island, of however limited relevance. Unlike perhaps Naithi however, she has no expectations of developing future relations with this little fey clan beyond avoiding conflict, and even that is likely best achieved by just avoiding their turf now that they know it is there. Although.. she will allow that thought to linger, of her speaking of bestowing 'an enduring boon' on them should they accept 'a greater task' from her later. (ooc: Sahabiel did have something specific in mind when she said that, but a rather useful side effect is that it supports the perception that there are greater boons to be won from playing along with her, that can not be gained by e.g. simply ambushing the party later and stealing their things, as would be the case if she allowed the Twigjacks to think only in terms of the foodstuffs and baubles they carried to barter with.)
Lothlo (WillD) -- AC: 20/15/16, HP: 56/56, CMD: 23 d20+15=35 ; Friday March 3rd, 2023 8:52:47 PM
Lothlo watches as the five twigjacks disappear with the food, and another five return for the shinies, followed by... another five? Still, they seem to have held up their end of the deal, and he can't really blame them for hiding their full numbers.
perception = 35 (nat 20)
DM Jon-Paul | Roots & Vines Map Friday March 3rd, 2023 9:50:09 PM What could have been...
Beech cringes a little at the question Naithi asks, but keeps his mouth shut, yes he understands Sylvan, but sooner than later, we are going to be pitted against someone we call "friends", It's gonna happen, and when it does, it's gonna splatter like a seagulls poo hitting a stone from a couple of hundred feet...
Naithi counts the number of Twigjack and becomes more curious about their food situation. Is it difficult finding enough food for all of you out here? Perhaps we could make arrangements to trade more often. Is that something you would be interested in?
Nightingale Like Panzer, Nightingale is content in letting her "cousin" deal with the interesting little creatures
Sahabiel also notices the discrepancy in the numbers of the Twigjacks... more than they could see must have been hiding, as had been Naithi's reading of the situation earlier. As expected then, and this only validates her belief that a fight here was better avoided. Sahabiel thinks about the other possibilities, and what could have been.
Lothlo watches as the five Twigjacks disappear with the food, and another five return for the shinies, followed by... another five? Still, they seem to have held up their end of the deal, and he can't really blame them for hiding their full numbers.
Panzer watches the parade of Twigjacks as they collect their bounty and realizes there are more than 5. How many more he isn't sure but way more than 5. He shrugs. There were way more than 5 rogues in the thieves guild too, and they seemed to be a lot tougher than this fey. But any fight he doesn't need to bleed in sounds good to him. -=-=-=-=-=-=-=--=-=-=-=-=-=-=-
As soon as all the baubles & foodstuffs have found a home amongst the brambles, and all that remains visible is the assumed leader of the TwigJacks, he, steps closer to the biggin's spokesperson, and says, "What we know about your destination...your destination, a pond with a small island is another half mile north of here, on the other side of the brambles. Since you have kept up your side of the barter, we can let you know there are other critters in other parts of the area, whether you see them or not. That is all."
With that, the leader pivots on heels (what could be heels) and disappears into the brambles.
You now have your final path to the pond with the small island. I would suggest you find a place to rest, meditate, have a meal, and plan your next move forward. To quote a leader, there are others in the area, even if you don't see them."
Zazu (AC20, HP52) and Boyo the bunny (AC19, HP26) (Cayzle) Friday March 3rd, 2023 10:32:02 PM
"That's good advice! Let's rest and then be on our way!"
Nightingale (JonS) HP 51/51 AC 21 CMD: 21 Saturday March 4th, 2023 6:53:33 PM
Nightingale frowns for a moment, and looks to her friends once the TwigJack leaves ... "Did he just say brambles, I'm wondering if we're going to be facing another plant battle - I don't remember the hunter saying anything about going through brambles to get to and from the island."
Beech (JohnC) AC 19(23)/14/15,HP 46/46 Character Monday March 6th, 2023 2:03:19 PM "If we are gonna rest up, i'll take first watch." Beech has a plan for clearing Brambles as needed... It's only a small area at a time, but it'll leave a bare spot....
Sahabiel (EstherLauren) -- AC 25/14/24 -- HP: 60/60 Monday March 6th, 2023 4:58:02 PM
Sahabiel nods to Beech. "When we are ready to move along, we will have to be careful and watch for signs of anything anyway. Oh, and l think we should go around the brambles rather than through? I do not think they can be a closed thicket stretching on and on, or no hunter should have even bothered trying to come this way."
(ooc: does rest mean a short rest for lunch only, or are we talking about long enough to reset per-day abilities and spell slots?)
Zazu (AC20, HP52) and Boyo the bunny (AC19, HP26) (Cayzle) Monday March 6th, 2023 7:38:12 PM
Zazu studies and preps spells. "Boyo Boy! I sure wish I had more than one third level spell in my book! What am I, a sorcerer! Next time I hit the Catacombs, I am definitely going scroll shopping!"
Panzer Braun (David F) AC 28 (T16, FF24) CMD 27 HP 81/87 ) Character Sheet Monday March 6th, 2023 7:42:21 PM
Panzer looks around. It is noon. He has just completed about the same amount of exercise as he and Fredo do every morning, except they run instead of stroll like the group has been doing. Normally this warm up would be followed by a day of digging out the trench and berm." " Rest, seriously? Whatever, I'll take middle watch then so y'all can sleep. I don't think we have used even 1 spell among us, but what do I know."
Lothlo (WillD) -- AC: 20/15/16, HP: 56/56, CMD: 23 d20+15=31 ; Monday March 6th, 2023 7:53:32 PM I'll keep an eye out if you guys need to rest and prepare your spells, after all, we know we aren't alone out here. Lohtlo scans the terrain and the tree tops for any signs of danger while people rest and prepare for what lies ahead.
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