Lothlo (WillD) -- AC: 20/15/16, HP: 56/56, CMD: 23 Monday July 3rd, 2023 9:05:36 PM I never thought of myself as among those experienced with navigating the Culverwoods, though I suppose we have made numerous trips there at this point, and we do have those among us that are much more familiar with them than I personally am. If you think we have the skills needed, then I would be happy to assist in finding the missing scouts.
Two, One... DM BatMark) Monday July 3rd, 2023 10:05:33 PM Sahabiel thanks Hriw-calen, and comments on Galen’s news. Lothlo is willing to assist with finding the missing scouts, and has some experience with the Wood, if not as much as some others. Nightingale spends time with the priests of Ffloy. Berotha is ready to search for the lost scouts if needed.
Another day passes as you shop, train, and otherwise better yourselves. There is no news of the missing scouts yet, and your local contacts are increasingly concerned about the situation. They resolve to do something about it if no one turns up by tomorrow.
Naithi (JamesD) AC: 20/14/17 HP: 114/114 , CMD = 22 Camalayas AC = 24/18/18 Monday July 3rd, 2023 10:49:30 PM
Naithi flicks back a strand of her shimmering silver hair and flashes a mischievous smile at her companions. It looks like they need someone with our skills to handle this forest. Between our trips through The Deep Culverwood, our combat skills, and several of us having grown up in deep forest and developing the forest walking ability, there really aren't many better options. With a confident swagger in her step, she pulls the group aside, You know, we really should come to with a snappy name for our group.
Sahabiel (EstherLauren) -- AC 22/11/21 -- HP: 60/60 Tuesday July 4th, 2023 8:14:28 AM
Sahabiel grins at her friend Naithi's can-do attitude, and her sudden interest in naming the group. "Maybe you are right and we should, but every good name that suits any particular combination of us, feels somehow inappropriate for at least one other of us? I don't think Panzer would be too happy with a name that suggests an unequivocally positive attitude towards the Culverwood for example, or Beech if we emphasized relationships with the fey. Just about the only things we've all got in common is that we're looking out for the people in Freedom Landing and each other, and are all set against this whole Darkening for one reason or another. What are we going to call ourselves from that, the Watchlights?"
"I am not opposed to lending a hand to find this missing team, on condition it is not going to take us somewhere too far from being able to respond quickly to more danger brewing back home."
(ooc: I think the DMs kind of set this trap for themselves, but with our home base and the friends and families we have there now under permanent threat, possibly to remain so all the way up to endgame if the force behind the darkening is to be our main antagonist all the way up to level 20, I think we're kind of cut off from being able to take adventures that would have us traveling anywhere else or even staying in Karri longer than we trust the faceless enemies we apparently have to leave our home and loved ones alone? It is different, and yet so the same, as back when every party action was dictated by concern over what the next move of the Karri Thieves' Guild was going to be.)
Panzer Braun (David F) AC 28 (T16, FF24) CMD 29 HP 87/100 ) Character Sheet Tuesday July 4th, 2023 12:53:40 PM
Panzer knows the horror f being lost in the Culverwood and easily agrees to helping find those lost scouts. He wants to have Galen foster teach his apprentice for a little while, since the Culverwood is no place for Fredo right now, If Galen will agree. His different fighting style should give Fredo some needed breadth in his studies. Panzer keeps studying the Dread, Fey and who would want to combine them.
OOC sorry, lost power yesterday, no sure if I will again soon or not. We are having some unsettled weather including from what I heard some mini tornadoes.
Panzer Braun (David F) AC 28 (T16, FF24) CMD 29 HP 87/100 ) Character Sheet Tuesday July 4th, 2023 12:54:41 PM
Posting for John C Beech
Beech studies a few new spells and commits them to memory as he trains at the WLA
Nightingale (JonS) HP -6/51 AC 21 CMD: 22 Tuesday July 4th, 2023 2:08:25 PM
Nightingale continues studying, and has a couple of the female attendants help her "take in" parts of her armor to make it more form fitting
Beech (JohnC) AC 19(23)/14/15,HP 46/46 Character Tuesday July 4th, 2023 6:19:08 PM
OOC: i semi have internet,Feest will most likely keep up posting for me, as to updating w/o a mouse it's not happening. Choices have been made just cant edit , JC
Berotha (Jason W) -- AC: 21/13/18, HP: 99/99, CMD: 29 Tuesday July 4th, 2023 8:27:01 PM
Berotha nods, honored to be considered part of the group. "The Watchlights is a noble name for a worthy cause."
Lothlo (WillD) -- AC: 20/15/16, HP: 56/56, CMD: 23 Tuesday July 4th, 2023 8:42:08 PM Has there been any news on what new dangers have been seen in the woods as of late? If they don't return safely we want to be prepared for any new dangers that have been reported.
Let's Roll DM BatMark) Tuesday July 4th, 2023 10:07:52 PM Panzer agrees to help find the lost scouts, and asks Galen to substitute teach his apprentice, Fredo, for a little while, knowing that it would not be safe for Fredo to enter the Culverwood these days. Beech studies new spells and trains with the WLA. Lothlo inquires into word of any new dangers. Naithi does a stylish hair flip number 59C, and smiles at the idea that a group such as yours is just what is needed. She suggests that your group needs a snappy name. Sahabiel smiles as Naithi’s enthusiasm, but considers the need to balance against the other party members less enamored of the tricksy Wood, and suggests the name ‘the Watchlights”. Nightingale continues studying and gets help making her armor as stylish as Naithi’s hair flips. Berotha likes the nobility of the Watchlights group name.
Galen appreciates your assistance in seeking out the lost scouts, and offers directions to the first places that the young Emissary had been planning to start his own search, in the Wood to the north of the city. He gladly agrees to mentor Fredo while you are away. When Panzer goes to find the lad, however, he notices Fredo gawping around the big city like a yokel. As Panzer watches, three bigger boys–two humans and a half-orc, approach the little halfling. You can’t easily hear exactly what they are saying from 60 feet away, but they seem to be confronting Fredo about something. Do you intervene?
Beyond that incident, what other preparations do you make before the rescue party sets off? Lothlo’s inquiries turn up no information on new threats, although perhaps because the recent scouts have not returned…
Zazu Bridgebuilder (AC20, HP52) and Boyo the bunny (AC19, HP26) (Cayzle) Tuesday July 4th, 2023 10:29:18 PM
Zazu double checks with Sahabiel about the request for glyphs.
OOC: Sahabiel, could you enchant boxes for Zazu wuth Glyphs? DMs, is there time to do so?
Panzer Braun (David F) AC 28 (T16, FF24) CMD 29 HP 87/100 ) Character Sheet d20+4=19 ; Wednesday July 5th, 2023 3:29:02 AM
Panzer edges closer to the group but makes sure to stay hidden from both Fredo and the city boys. Fredo had wanted to study fighting for just this reason and Panzer had taught him plenty, enough for him to navigate this confrontation in several ways, including those that kept it from coming to blows. He tries to see if the other boys are armed, he knows Fredo is. The halfling has carried is blades since the day he won them from Panzer. Panzer wants to see if Fredo has heard all of the things he was taught. Mainly that anger makes mistakes happen. He knows better than to draw on unarmed foes, in a city, even when they outsize and outnumber you. He gets close enough to intervene if things go badly for either side. Perception 19
Sahabiel (EstherLauren) -- AC 22/11/21 -- HP: 60/60 Wednesday July 5th, 2023 3:34:20 AM (ooc: Sahabiel will agree to Zazu's request, but the timing may have to wait until after this potential sidequest, as Sahabiel has her time in Karri tied up with certain other things on the day you asked)
(Also, my province is under an extreme weather lockdown right now, it might hinder my posting)
Stay safe my friend =)
Berotha (Jason W) -- AC: 21/13/18, HP: 99/99, CMD: 29 Wednesday July 5th, 2023 9:46:35 AM
Berotha nods to the others "Seems we search the area for Waesberos' trail to the north, then. Anything special about his shoes? What was his height and weight? Carrying anything recognizable?" Berotha figures it would be best to improve her chances of distinguishing his tracks from those of some other walker in the woods.
The rest of the time, Berotha studies the big city with great interest, so intrigued to see how the mainlanders do things. She steps carefully, constantly aware of the small races, and sometimes even smaller folk, underhoof. As a result, she walks much more slowly in the city than she would in the countryside but the caution seems necessary.
Naithi (JamesD) AC: 20/14/17 HP: 114/114 , CMD = 22 Camalayas AC = 24/18/18 Wednesday July 5th, 2023 1:40:57 PM
Naithi narrows her vibrant eyes, a mischievous smile playing on her lips. She gracefully strokes Camalayas tufted ears and ponders the situation. She almost purrs as she asks, Tell me what you know about these shoes and where they were venturing and what they were seeking inside the Forest. It may help us narrow down their location and what happened to them. Also, please see if you can find and lend me some of their garments so that we may catch their scent upon the wind and track them. Any advantage you can give us may help to bring them back safely.
Nightingale (JonS) HP -6/51 AC 21 CMD: 22 Wednesday July 5th, 2023 2:34:58 PM
Nightingale is ready to go look for the lost emissary
OOC: Just finished my Catacombs stuff .. I'll get her info caught up once everything is finalized
Beech (JohnC) AC 19(23)/14/15,HP 46/46 Character Wednesday July 5th, 2023 2:45:47 PM
Beech, has spent a couple days learning new spells and getting better at perception with feats and skill. He's taking a break from the intensive training and spots Panzer. It takes a few moments to spot Fredo. He casts a silent image of the area here he is hiding, this will give full vision of Fredo and allow him to be ready to move if needed. Highlight to display spoiler: { provides total cover from Fredo's direction.} He then moves up using the cover and whispers, " Expecting to him defuse it or to wipe the floor clean?"
Berotha (Jason W) -- AC: 21/13/18, HP: 99/99, CMD: 29 Wednesday July 5th, 2023 3:31:29 PM
Berotha stumbles into Panzer and sees him watching the bullying situation unfold. She nods to the badger and mutters under her breath "If you give the word, I will send them running. There are some advantages to being a minotaur."
Lothlo (WillD) -- AC: 20/15/16, HP: 56/56, CMD: 23 Wednesday July 5th, 2023 7:23:09 PM
Lothlo makes his way to a spot a little out of the way where he can observer without adding to the high tensions, and where he can have a clear line of sight if things turn ugly.
Sahabiel (EstherLauren) -- AC 22/11/21 -- HP: 60/60 Wednesday July 5th, 2023 8:18:01 PM
Sahabiel is not present for the bullying scene, as she has somewhere else to be today.
Zazu Bridgebuilder (AC20, HP52) and Boyo the bunny (AC19, HP26) (Cayzle) Wednesday July 5th, 2023 11:01:15 PM
Zazu struggles to keep up with everything that is happening. Too busy getting the boxes and components ready for Sahabiel to cast glyphs, if she has time. If not, maybe later.
Fredo's Triumph (DM BatMark) Thursday July 6th, 2023 12:27:52 AM Panzer edges closer to the confrontation between Fredo and the bullies, but stays out of sight. He knows that he has taught the young halfling what he needs to know, and now he is being tested. Zazu checks with Sahabiel with respect to help making glyph boxes, and makes preparations just in case. Sahabiel is willing to help Zazu, but has been too busy up until now, so it will have to wait until after this side quest. Beech uses magic to help hide from Fredo’s bullies and asks Panzer what he expects the lad to do. Berotha offers to help Panzer scare away the bullies if needed. After the confrontation is resolved, she suggests following the emissary’s trail to the north. She asks for information that will make it easier to find the fellow. In the meantime, she watches and treads carefully in the city. Lothlo finds a place to watch the apprentice’s confrontation, ready to intervene if necessary. Naithi also shows interest in the Emissary’s footwear, and asks for items to enable tracking by scent. Nightingale is ready to go in search of the Emissary.
Those nearby see that Fredo turns to face his bullies with a resolute look of determination. His hand brushes the hilt of his blade but he seems to think better of that course of action and does not draw it. Instead, he suddenly kips up a broom leaning against the outside of a nearby shop, and sweeps it around behind the biggest human’s knees, causing the oaf to stumble. A light tap with Fredo’s palm is enough to then overbalance the ruffian, sending him flopping into the arms of his companions, all with shocked expressions on their faces. Fredo makes a feint toward one of the others with the broomstick, and he stumbles back out of the way. Fredo pulls up short, carefully places the broomstick back against the wall, and stoically walks around a corner. The bullies hurry off in the other direction, possibly having learned an important lesson today.
Afterwards, Galen and the members of the party who have previously met the journeyman emissary recall his ornate boots with a distinctive toe box, which should be helpful in tracking him. Galen also arranges for some of his recently worn clothing to be brought to give a scent to follow once clear of the masking odors of the city. Thus informed, do you head out or make other preparations first?
Berotha (Jason W) -- AC: 21/13/18, HP: 99/99, CMD: 29 Thursday July 6th, 2023 9:21:40 AM
Berotha nods with a smile as Fredo takes care of the bullies with more finesse than force. "He's been well trained."
When Galen provides the important resources, she nods in thanks. "I am ready to depart."
Panzer Braun (David F) AC 28 (T16, FF24) CMD 29 HP 87/100 ) Character Sheet Thursday July 6th, 2023 1:46:18 PM
Panzer smiles, Fredo learned well to control his anger. Panzer is ready to go.
Beech (JohnC) AC 19(23)/14/15,HP 46/46 Character Thursday July 6th, 2023 3:43:58 PM
Beech, having watched the goings on, makes himself scarce after and regroups with everyone.
Highlight to display spoiler: { Until i either get home or get a mouse i can't update anything, including a catacombs run, because i can't email anything away from my home. I can check it just not mail stuff.}
Sahabiel (EstherLauren) -- AC 22/11/21 -- HP: 60/60 Thursday July 6th, 2023 5:47:19 PM (ooc: Assuming the DM rules that it is possible for her to have done everything she set out to do by this point, so that she matches her 9th level character sheet,) Sahabiel will be ready to act on the case of the missing scouts. Although she is unhappy about being away from Freedom Landing, she also acknowledges that gaining information early, from events happening here now, could help inform their fight without having to wait for similar problems to start happening at home.
On the Road Again (DM BatMark) Thursday July 6th, 2023 10:06:08 PM Berotha and Panzer both smile in satisfaction at Fredo’s handling of the bullies and are ready to go find the missing scouts. Beech regroups with the party. Sahabiel, having completed her business around town, is ready to move out, despite concerns over Freedom’s Landing’s safety.
Your preparations in town complete, you are able to head north out of town and try to pick up the trail of the Emissary. There is too much traffic close to town to have much chance of success, but farther out, closer to the Wood, you should be able to have a good chance of success. What is your strategy, knowing the Emissary’s basic travel plan but not specific waypoints?
Nightingale (JonS) HP -6/51 AC 21 CMD: 22 Thursday July 6th, 2023 11:28:50 PM
Nightingale applauds Fredo's gusto in dealing with the bullies, and is also ready to go find the young emmisary
Zazu Bridgebuilder (AC20, HP52) and Boyo the bunny (AC19, HP26) (Cayzle) d20+9=13 ; d20+22=27 ; Friday July 7th, 2023 8:29:41 AM
Zazu will help the party stay on track in the Culverwood, if we end up entering the magic forest.
Survival with Forest Walking feat: 13
Otherwise, Zazu and Boyo just stay alert. Perception 27
Berotha (Jason W) -- AC: 21/13/18, HP: 99/99, CMD: 29 d20+24=44 ; d20+18=20 ; Friday July 7th, 2023 9:31:34 AM
As they head into the forest, Berotha visibly relaxes. The strange, dense, urban bustle of smaller creatures was much less comfortable than the woods. Certainly they were not the same as her own forest back home. But they were still relatively familiar and her focus sharpens. She begins weaving east to west in broad arcs through the woods, searching for clues, tracks, or anything out of place.
OoC: Favored terrain perception 44. Favored terrain survival 20 or 24 if it counts as following tracks.
Beech (JohnC) AC 19(23)/14/15,HP 46/46 Character Friday July 7th, 2023 11:32:31 AM
Beech, gets used to the newly upgraded bow. He is positive at least four of his friends are going to be highly irritated with his choice. Heck, he didn't fit in on Liontaur Isle because he grew up living at Black Bird Lake, he was basically an outsider where ever he ended up. It wasn't anything new to him.
Highlight to display spoiler: { can someone please do the Email sending so I can finish up with the Catacombs, because I can't.}
DM BatMark Note: I sent the Catacombs email, CCing all the relevant folks.
Naithi (JamesD) AC: 20/14/17 HP: 114/114 , CMD = 22 Camalayas AC = 24/18/18 d20+23=29 ; Friday July 7th, 2023 2:47:45 PM
Naithi and Camalayas also help with tracking and keeping from getting lost.
ooc: Was Naithi able to get anything that may have the missing people's scent on it?
Survival check to keep from getting lost in the Culverwood had a +10 bonus applied. A +4 bonus is applied to all other survival and knowledge Nature checks in The Culverwood Forest.
DM BatMark Note: See the early Thursday DM post for info re the scented item that you got.
Nightingale (JonS) HP -6/51 AC 21 CMD: 22 Friday July 7th, 2023 3:20:19 PM
OOC: I don't remember if I posted this or not
IC: When Nightingale rejoins her friends, she is wearing the blue scale mail armor, is carrying a small metal shield, has a rapier on one hip, and a hand crossbow on the other
Her shield bears the mark of Ffloy, and she still has her holy symbol of Maab and her WLA badge prominent on a thong around her neck
Zazu Bridgebuilder (AC20, HP52) and Boyo the bunny (AC19, HP26) (Cayzle) Friday July 7th, 2023 5:30:45 PM
Zazu looks at the party. "I never joined any organization, religion, or club. Maybe I should."
"What's that Boyo? I'd never join any club that would have me as a member? Ha!"
Lothlo (WillD) -- AC: 20/15/16, HP: 56/56, CMD: 23 Friday July 7th, 2023 7:53:11 PM I'll do what I can to help track the footprints, but I'll leave not getting helplessly lost to the experts in the Culverwood. Tracking footprints in an ever changing forest... now that sounds like a challenge.
ooc: the dice roller is bugged right now, so I can't roll a perception check
Panzer Braun (David F) AC 28 (T16, FF24) CMD 29 HP 87/100 ) Character Sheet d20+4=16 ; Friday July 7th, 2023 9:01:17 PM
Panzer is noticeably on edge in the Culverwood. Everyone else is far more competent than he in the woods than Panzer is so he mainly just follows along and keeps his eyes open. Perception 16
The Trees (DM BatMark) Friday July 7th, 2023 10:14:15 PM Nightingale applauds Fredo’s performance and is ready to head out. She is clad in scaly blue armor with some cool new bling. She appears to be serving a new trinity of Ffloy, Maab, and the WLA. Zazu is ready to help navigate and watchful for trouble. The elf wonders aloud whether it is time to join an organization, perhaps inspired by Nightingale’s example. Berotha is happy to be back in the woods. She sets up a search pattern. Beech is pleased with his new bow of fey irritation. Naithi and Camalayas also help track and navigate. Lothlo helps with the tracking as well. Panzer is on edge in these woods, which still does not feel welcoming to him, so he keeps his eyes open.
Using the clothing provided by Galen, Naithi and Camalayas pick up the Emissary’s scent about halfway to the Culverwood proper. Cued in by that, the trackers are able to pick up his trail and follow it, angling slightly to the northwest toward the Wood. Ahead in the far distance, you see a large copse of trees surrounded by an even larger patch of multi-colored, tall grasses, some of which grow higher than eight feet. The tracks seem to lead that way. How do our heroes proceed?
Panzer Braun (David F) AC 28 (T16, FF24) CMD 29 HP 87/100 ) Character Sheet Friday July 7th, 2023 10:47:33 PM " Uhhh, isn't the Sargrass plain where grass like that is found? Didn't we just run afoul of a fallen shard of something else from the Sargrass that was not so pleasant to deal with? Related maybe?" Panzer is far from what anyone would call a scholar, so leaps of thought like this are foreign to him. He wonders if mentioning it might spark one of the smarter of his companions to comment though.
Sahabiel (EstherLauren) -- AC 23/11/22 -- HP: 65/65 d20+24=26 ; d20+15=18 ; Saturday July 8th, 2023 7:55:33 AM (ooc: My apologies for missing my cue yesterday)
(ooc: I know that was a pro forma roll only since we already succeeded at tracking to this point, but again 2 and a 3 on d20 for my chance to do above my passive rating? As has become customary, I will barely scrape by on my most core skills.)
Sahabiel raises her hand in a signal to stop. She is slightly weary of the strange coloration of the grasses ahead. "Before we get closer, let's ask around first. The locals would be a aware of a disturbance so nearby...", she suggests.
She seeks out a few plants that look well positioned by their height and facing the right direction, and those she knows to have very wide root networks as well, and starts making polite inquiries about what is going on around that curious grassy area up ahead, and if the plants remember a two-legged creature passing by in that direction recently.
Berotha (Jason W) -- AC: 21/13/18, HP: 99/99, CMD: 29 d20+18=37 ; Saturday July 8th, 2023 10:09:00 AM
Berotha looks impressed as Sahabiel starts talking to plants. "Well that could be useful..." She checks around to see if there are any other tracks heading into the strange grass in the area.
OoC: 37 survival.
Beech (JohnC) AC 19(23)/14/15,HP 46/46 Character Saturday July 8th, 2023 12:51:00 PM
Beech, was not expecting to see the grass here...At least not a grass that brought to mind Steelgrass. "Yes Panzer it does remind me of Mom's description of the grass used to create those incredible weapons and armor. There is one problem, we have no clue how to manufacture them." He shifts the bow a bit, it's not any heavier, but it was out of his hands for a few hours while the Catacombs was enchanting it.
Highlight to display spoiler: { Thanks for sending the email}
Zazu Bridgebuilder (AC24, HP61) and Boyo the bunny (AC19, HP30) (Cayzle) d20+41=44 ; d20+33=45 ; d20+22=24 ; d20+16=21 ; Monday July 10th, 2023 7:27:43 AM
Zazu casts Mage Armor and Invisibility, the latter shared with Boyo -- and Message with the party. The duo circle around to the right of the stand of colored grass and then sneak in to take a closer look.
Stealth with invisibility Zazu 44 | Boyo 45
Perception to be alert Zazu 24 | Boyo 21
[OOC: Pretty sure ,my PC sheet is complete for level 9]
Panzer Braun (David F) AC 28 (T16, FF24) CMD 29 HP 87/100 ) Character Sheet Monday July 10th, 2023 2:06:25 PM " So the tracks go into the grass Berotha? If you want to keep tracking I'll watch your back and keep anything from sneaking up on you."
Nightingale (JonS) HP 64/64 AC 21 CMD: 23 Survival check: d20+12=25 ; Know: Nature check: d20+10=30 ; Monday July 10th, 2023 4:54:16 PM
Nightingale will draw and load her hand xbow, and help in looking at the tracks as they go through the grasses, making sure she and her friends aren't following a false trail, or that someone else might have passed through here
Sahabiel (EstherLauren) -- AC 23/11/22 -- HP: 65/65 Monday July 10th, 2023 5:24:23 PM
Sahabiel persists in making conversation with the local flora in the group's search for answers. (as Speak With Plants)
Lothlo (WillD) -- AC: 20/15/16, HP: 56/56, CMD: 23 d20+15=34 ; Monday July 10th, 2023 7:36:17 PM Wait, Sargrass? Do you think that somehow the grass we planted here and started thriving? Or do you think something is somehow creating a bridge directly to the Sargrass palain from here?
Lothlo examines the area to get a better idea of exactly what is going on with the Sargrass, paying special attention for any signs this way would lead to the Sargrass Plains itself, such as a warmer/drier air coming from that direction.
Perception = 34
Naithi (JamesD) AC: 20/14/17 HP: 114/114 , CMD = 22 Camalayas AC = 24/18/18 Monday July 10th, 2023 8:37:15 PM
Naithi shakes her head. I didn't prepare any spells that will help explain this grass, but it looks like an invasive species. We should be careful and name sure we don't accidentally spread it. That said, I would like to collect some in order to see if we can use them as a crop or an indicator of things to come. Let's try not to destroy it all, if it comes to that.
The Grasses (DM BatMark) Monday July 10th, 2023 8:58:59 PM Panzer is reminded of the Sargrass and your recent experiences with a shard. He promises to guard Berotha’s back as she keeps tracking. Sahabiel raises a hand to signal a stop, wondering whether the local plants might know something about dangers ahead. Berotha is impressed by Sahabiel’s Lorax impression, before looking for tracks heading into the strange grass. Beech was also not expecting steelgrass here, but agrees with Panzer that this could be that wondrous plant. Alas, he does not know the trick of working it. Zazu casts mage armor and Invisibility before circling around to the right on Boyo to sneak in for a closer look. Nightingale draws her weapons and helps makes sure the trail is not false. Lothlo wonders whether the grass you planted here has thrived, or maybe there is a bridge between the Sargrass and here. He takes a closer look to see what might be revealed, but the air from the copse is if anything slightly moister than otherwise, contrary to his expectation of a Sargrassian dryness. Naithi thinks this grass looks like an invasive species. She wants to collect some, being careful not to spread it.
Sahabiel’s conversation with the local flora is delightful, if not incredibly helpful. The nearby plants report that some ‘two-trunked’ creatures came by several suns ago, and one more more recently, all headed toward the snobby trees over there. And those grasses, always with the susurrating murmurs, they seem like incredible gossips, but haven’t come close enough to share any juicy tidbits. Now that they mention it, you can hear the blades swishing against each other in the light breeze from the north. Lothlo has noticed that the breeze from the north, coming through the copse, is slightly damper than the prevailing air.
Zazu’s scouting the eastern flank turns up no immediate sighting of anything threatening, but the height of the grass and thickness of the greenery of all sorts precludes peering deeper into the center of the copse from outside.
Berotha does find a new set of tracks leading into the copse, apparently from three lightfooted humanoids. She and Naithi see that the Emissary’s tracks meet up with the set of three, but then proceeds on top of them–presumably occurring later, and also lead into the copse.
As you approach closer, Nightingale and Sahabiel are able to use their knowledge of nature to determine that the grasses here are not steelgrass, but may be related types that they have not previously heard of. The grass surrounding the copse of trees is mostly yellow, brighter and thinner than the glass grass found in the Sargrass. Nearing the trees and in amongst them are large clumps of blue and dark green grasses, which do not match any that you have previously learned of, but still seem related to the Sargrass.
How do you further explore this scene?
Zazu Bridgebuilder (AC24, HP61) and Boyo the bunny (AC19, HP30) (Cayzle) Monday July 10th, 2023 10:05:03 PM
Zazu and Boyo continue to sneak deeper into the grasses, using stealth and perception to be sneaky and spotty.
Beech (JohnC) AC 19(23)/14/15,HP 46/46 Character Monday July 10th, 2023 11:40:39 PM
Beech, has the bow at the ready and is prepared to either cast or drop an arrow quiver and cast.
Berotha (Jason W) -- AC: 21/13/18, HP: 99/99, CMD: 29 Tuesday July 11th, 2023 10:34:46 AM
Berotha follows the tracks into the grass while keeping a wary eye out. "Odd colors. I wonder what that means. Seems the emissary followed three lighter humanoids in here."
OoC: Still medium sized but lighter? Or small humanoids or something?
Nightingale (JonS) HP 64/64 AC 21 CMD: 23 Tuesday July 11th, 2023 2:02:41 PM
Nightingale ends up back by Berotha, "They are pretty colorful, but not natural to this area. Either someone or something planted them here, or something else is going on."
Sahabiel (EstherLauren) -- AC 23/11/22 -- HP: 65/65 Tuesday July 11th, 2023 3:59:27 PM
Sahabiel sees no reason to stop doing something that seems to be working, so as the group explores the tracks closer to the tall grass, she tentatively addresses one of the tall, oddly colored thin yellow grasses on the outer perimeter, "Hello? I hope ya are well.. don't think I have seen yer kind in this soil before though? Could ya tell me what it is ya do here?".
Lothlo (WillD) -- AC: 20/15/16, HP: 56/56, CMD: 23 d20+16=33 ; Tuesday July 11th, 2023 7:05:20 PM Well, the good news is that from what I can tell this exactly what it looks like, strange grass growing in the woods. I don't detect any connection to the Sargrass Plains themselves, still, I'm going to do a quick sweep to check for any footprints or signs that creatures from the Sargrass haven't been brought here along with the grass. It would make sense that those expecting the Culverwood wouldn't have been prepared for something from the Sargrass plains.
Lothlo does a quick check for any signs of wildlife that appear to be from the Sargrass plains and not the Culverwood Perception = 33
Panzer Braun (David F) AC 28 (T16, FF24) CMD 29 HP 87/100 ) Character Sheet d20+4=24 ; Tuesday July 11th, 2023 7:10:37 PM
Panzer sticks to Berotha's back, watching for anything that might try to attack her while she is distracted tracking. Perception 24
Zazu Bridgebuilder (AC24, HP61) and Boyo the bunny (AC19, HP30) (Cayzle) Tuesday July 11th, 2023 9:18:04 PM
If Zazu and Boyo cannot go deeper into the grass, Zazu casts Fly on Boyo and they fly over. Invisibly. Stealthily. Keeping alert.
Zap! (DM BatMark) Tuesday July 11th, 2023 9:54:30 PM Zazu and Boyo sneak into the grasses from the east. Beech is ready with bow and spell. Berotha tracks the humanoid prints into the grasses, noticing that the three were medium but slighter than the Emissary. Nightingale is close to Berotha, and comments that the colorful grasses are not native. Sahabiel continues talking to the local flora, in this case the outermost yellow grasses. Panzer sticks to Berotha’s back, ready to protect her from attack. Lothlo claims that this is strange grass growing in the woods, with no known connection to the Sargrass Plains, which is different than Naithi and Sahabiel had concluded. He sweeps for signs that Sargrass creatures have also been here. Naithi follows silently.
Lothlo does not see any Sargrassian creatures within his line of sight, but as with Zazu earlier, sight lines into the heart of the copse are blocked by the tall grassess and tree foliage.
Sahabiel speaks to the yellow grasses as the group enters and begins to walk through. They seem excited by your passage, positively ec-static even. Bzzzt! Ooh, we love doing that! As you get about 25-30 feet into the yellow grasses, you feel a static charge suddenly peak, then release. (OOC: Everyone walking through the grasses please make a DC20 Reflex save, with a -4 penalty if you are wearing metal armor. On a failure, take 1d6 electrical damage for every 5’ of your speed above 10’. For example, If you have a speed of 20’ you would take 2d6 damage. I’m assuming that even those with mounts or otherwise capable of moving faster than 30’ were not, because most of you were sticking together or sneaking.)
You need to cross about 90 feet of the yellow grasses to reach the central clumps of trees and blue and green grasses, which themselves seem to have a total diameter of about 120’ at the center of the copse. From within the center of the copse, Zazu, Lothlo, and Panzer do hear a soft bubbling sound, but the source is hidden by the intervening foliage.
Beech (JohnC) AC 19(23)/14/15,HP 46/46 Character Wednesday July 12th, 2023 11:30:39 AM
Beech would be moving at whatever speed the group was moving, so will take damage when it is determined the actual speed the group is moving. He will react by casting Fly and then taking to the air getting out of the grass and moving further towards the other side.
Sahabiel (EstherLauren) -- AC 23/11/22 -- HP: 65/65 Wednesday July 12th, 2023 5:10:06 PM
Sahabiel, who has never even been on the same continent as the Sargrass, does not hold the opinions on the origin of these grasses that Lothlo seems to think she does?
At any rate, she notices that these grasses seem positively charged with excitement about people entering their area, and with a jolt she comes to the shocking realization about the danger these grasses pose when poor Boyo gets zapped by a discharge of static from their long rustling blades.
(ooc: waiting to see who else was in or out of the grass when that happened)
DM Note: You and Nightingale made knowledge nature checks that revealed some information about the grasses, which Lothlo's conclusion contradicted. You are correct that you don't have to believe what you recall from hearing about such lore from others who passed knowledge on to you.
Lothlo (WillD) -- AC: 20/15/16, HP: 56/56, CMD: 23 Wednesday July 12th, 2023 6:26:43 PM Is that static electricity? Do you think pouring water on yourself would help or make things worse?
ooc: I think only Zazu and Boyo entered so far, but let me know if you want me to roll.
Naithi (JamesD) AC: 20/14/17 HP: 114/114 , CMD = 22 Camalayas AC = 24/18/18 d20+9=15 ; d20+8=15 ; d6=2 ; d6=6 ; d6=3 ; d6=6 ; Wednesday July 12th, 2023 6:33:57 PM
ooc: I made/failed my rolls thinking everyone had entered. Naithi would follow the group in, but not if it is just Zazu trying to be sneaky (I think Camalayas only has +5 for stealth). I'll wait and see what others do/did.
DM Addendum (DM BatMark) Wednesday July 12th, 2023 7:15:31 PM
I'm not trying to force anyone into walking into the grasses, hence my phrase "Everyone walking through the grasses please make a DC20 save..." Zazu and Boyo did. I think Berotha did on the south, although in retrospect her post was ambiguous; Panzer was glued to her back for protection, and Nightingale was ending up with Berotha as well. So I'll defer to each of you to be honest about what your intentions were and let you clarify as you post again. Thanks!
Panzer Braun (David F) AC 28 (T16, FF24) CMD 29 HP 92/100 ) Character Sheet d20+7=11 ; d6=4 ; d6=4 ; d6=1 ; Wednesday July 12th, 2023 8:02:33 PM
reflex save 11 fail vs DC 24 Panzer moves 30 so I used that for damage, not knowing what speed Berotha was making into the grass. If we know the grass is reacting to speed, then Panzer stops dead and tries to figure out what is happening and how to counter it. If we don't know that speed affects the damage then Panzer moves as fast as he can INTO the grass, trying to get to the blue and green grasses. (double move for 60') Damage taken assumes we were at full hp since we have been healing in town for a few days.
DM NOte: Yes, you get the sense that speed contributes to the problem, now that you have discovered it.
Zazu Bridgebuilder (AC24, HP61) and Boyo the bunny (AC19, HP30) (Cayzle) d20+8=25 ; d20+12=29 ; d20+34=42 ; d20+41=47 ; d20+16=20 ; d20+16=18 ; d20+22=42 ; d20+22=34 ; Wednesday July 12th, 2023 8:43:32 PM
Reflex Saves for Zazu and Boyo. Boyo is wearing mithril, not sure how that counts. Boyo: 25, even with the -4, no prob. Zazu: 29, also no problem.
With the ability to evade and dodge, Zazu and Boyo take NO damage.
NOW Zazu casts that Fly spell on Boyo, and the duo rise above the shocking grasses to fly to the center of the magic meadow. They continue to be invisible and silent. They message their status and what they see to their friends.
Fly Like a Bunny (DM BatMark) Wednesday July 12th, 2023 10:05:42 PM Zazu and Boyo move into the grass, and soon sparks fly. The nimble trickster and mount dodge the flicker of electricity and take to the air, flying invisibly toward the center of the copse, ready to message back what they see. Sahabiel realizes what the plants meant when she sees an eruption of sparks in the grass for a moment in the general direction where Zazu and Boyo had gone to scout. Fortunately, they do not seem to have been grounded and in fact are nowhere to be seen and heard after a moment of arcane mumbo jumbo. Beech sees what is happening over in Zazu’s direction and is able to fly above the shocking grass as well.
Berotha leads part of the group into the grass from the south, still following the tracks, and experiences a jolt of static electricity. (OOC: Please make the save and roll damage as needed per the previous DM post) Panzer follows Berotha, and gets zapped when the friction has built up enough to discharge. He stops for a moment to figure this out, realizes that this prevents further static buildup, and deduces that the grass reacts to speed in some fashion. Nightingale had also moved near Berotha, and experiences the same electrical jolt from the shocking grass. (OOC: Please make the save and roll damage as needed per the previous DM post)
Lothlo wonders whether water would help or hurt in avoiding the static buildup. Not having entered the grass yet, he hasn’t had a chance to test this idea. Naithi also held back with Lothlo and Sahabiel.
From above, Zazu and Beech can see into the copse of trees. There is a small pond at the center, partially obscured by overhanging branches. Near the pond are the remains of three slender humanoid bodies, which have clearly been savaged by some sort of large predator. About 10 feet up In a tree nearby, you can see another motionless body, this one clad in the colors of the Emissary, thankfully uneaten, but folded awkwardly over where a large branch meets the trunk.
Berotha (Jason W) -- AC: 21/13/18, HP: 83/99, CMD: 29 d20+11=23 ; 4d6=16 ; Thursday July 13th, 2023 7:47:59 AM
OoC: 23 reflex save fails vs. DC 24 for mithral armor. I would assume Berotha is moving as fast as she can while tracking without a penalty, which is half speed. But I'm wary of motivated cognition so I'm happy to work with 30 ft instead for 4d6. 16 damage marked.
Berotha stops dead when the grass shocks her and casts a spell on herself and Panzer. "Wait, my small but fierce friend."
OoC: Resist energy (lighting) 10 on me and Panzer. If we move slowly, we should be fine. The spell lasts 60 minutes on each of us.
Berotha then keeps moving slowly toward the pond.
Beech (JohnC) AC 19(23)/14/15,HP 46/46 Character d20+8=22 ; Thursday July 13th, 2023 1:14:46 PM
Beech, feels lucky he's in the back. He watched as the grass released the voltage and as shocked at the damage it did. Now flying, he's 15' in the air and keeping a watch for more bad guys.
Perception 22
Highlight to display spoiler: { bought a mouse from Amazon, will see if it gets delivered to rehab or not}
Naithi (JamesD) AC: 19/14/16 HP: 113/114 , CMD = 22 Camalayas AC = 24/18/18 d4=1 ; d4=1 ; d4=4 ; d4=4 ; d4=4 ; d4=2 ; d4=3 ; d4=1 ; d4=4 ; d4=1 ; d4=3 ; d4=3 ; Thursday July 13th, 2023 2:23:58 PM
ooc: If Panzer and Brotha entered Naithi would go as well. She just didn't want to ruin Zazu's stealth attempts.
Naithi's eyes widen in surprise as the unexpected lightning strike jolts through her body, temporarily overpowering her senses. She quickly regains her composure and urges Camalayas forward, determined to press on despite the pain coursing through their bodies. Well, well... Looks like these grasses have a little spark in them. Naithi's body tenses with pain from the electric shock as she chuckles with defiance, refusing to be deterred by mere static electricity.
Naithi reaches into her pouch and pulls out 8 fresh, vibrant good berries. She quickly consumes them, feeling their healing energy flow through her body. Camalayas also munches on the berries with gusto, regaining strength from their nourishing properties.
The healing magic pulses through them and Naithi feels her wounds closing up - a mere inconvenience thwarted by her indomitable will. With renewed vigor, she readies herself for battle once more; nothing can bring down this unstoppable fey warrior duo.
This feeling is quickly tempered as she grits her teeth and the two force themselves to slow down as they push through the tall grasses. They don't want to draw undo attention to themselves or trigger another attack knowing that the Emissary needs her help. She won't allow anything—not even a jolt of lightning—to stand in her way. With determination fueling each step, Naithi presses forward, ready to confront whatever challenges await within the copse.
Actions: Both Camalayas and Naithi eat 8 good berries to restore most their health. I'm assuming good berries are not considered positive energy and that 1's don't get re-rolled, in which case I have 4 left. However I made the extra rolls in case I'm wrong about that.
Updated my header to reflect current AC (armor is hide and not scale) and HP values.
Zazu Bridgebuilder (AC24, HP61) and Boyo the bunny (AC19, HP30) (Cayzle) Thursday July 13th, 2023 4:51:01 PM
Zazu casts Message to communicate with the Emissary. "I'm Zazu Bridgebuilder. I'm here to rescue you."
If the Emissary does not object, Zazu will cast Levitate (from say 50 ft up in the air) on the Emissary, lift it up, and then grab it so that Boyo can tow the person to safety.
Nightingale (JonS) HP 64/64 AC 21 CMD: 23 REF Save: d20+9=18 - 4 for armor = 14
Zap damage: 4d6=15 ; Thursday July 13th, 2023 4:51:59 PM
Until she gets "zapped" Nightingale is enjoying the strange grasses. She then gets the heck outta the grasses in order to NOT get zapped again. She will call out to Sahabiel, "Cousin, do you think we can use our magics to command the grasses to part so we can walk through them?"
OOC: I don't know if command plants can be used on swathes of grass or if it is only specific plant creatures
Sahabiel (EstherLauren) -- AC 23/11/22 -- HP: 65/65 Thursday July 13th, 2023 8:49:21 PM
Sahabiel, who is wearing metal armor, is not taking any chances and voluntarily reduces her movement to a very cautious pace to avoid agitating the grasses as she goes along. ( moving only 10' per round, damage would be zero so rolls irrelevant )
With a nod to Nightingale, she answers, "I could ask 'em, cousin, but even if I put into that request the power to instill in them an urge to comply, it would not give them to ability to, right? I've yet to see any signs that this grass has such motive powers that it could part itself, even if its life depended on it."
Lothlo (WillD) -- AC: 20/15/16, HP: 56/56, CMD: 23 Thursday July 13th, 2023 8:52:38 PM I think I'll just walk slowly and carefully, see if I can avoide building up a charge that way. If I start to feel it building, I'll test pouring water on my cloak to see if it prevents the static build up.
Lothlo moves carefully and deliberately, not going above a speed of 10’ .
Split the Party! (DM BatMark) Thursday July 13th, 2023 10:21:51 PM Berotha stops after getting shocked, and casts resist energy on herself and Panzer, before moving ahead slowly toward the pond that Zazu reported. She is now about halfway through the ring of shockgrass surrounding the copse, and by moving slowly she avoids any additional shock beyond what her spell absorbs. Beech flies above the shock grass and keeps a lookout for bad guys. As Zazu levitates the Emissary’s body, Beech sees a disturbance in the pond below. Rising from beneath the surface, you see eight human-sized lizards emerge. Four move toward the tree that the Emissary was in on the southeast side of the pond, while the other four move into some of the blue grass immediately to the north of that tree and, bizarrely, begin to thrash around. Naithi plunged into the grasses with the others on foot, and gets a nasty shock. She pulls out some goodberries to heal herself and Camalayas. (OOC: Note that each goodberry heals 1hp, unless you have a special ability that enhances them.) Zazu tries to message the limp form of the Emissary, but gets no response in return. The elf is able to levitate the Emissary and get ready to tow him to safety. The Emissary looks scratched up and bruised, but not seriously damaged. He is not conscious, however. Nightingale enjoys the grasses until the zap, after which she gets back out. She wonders whether Commanding the plants with a spell will work. She knows that the spell normally only works on plant creatures, but is not sure whether these grasses would qualify. (OOC: Depending on how fast she ‘gets the heck outta the grasses’, she may need to make the save again against the damage.) Sahabiel slows down to enter the shock grass without risk. She wishes that Nightingale’s idea to command the plants would work, but has seen no signs that they have the motive power to comply. Lothlo also moves slowly and safely into the grass, ready to pour on water to reduce static if needed. Panzer abides.
Our heroes are now divided into five groups. Zazu and Beech flying above the copse have retrieved the limp body of the Emissary and spotted some medium-sized lizards acting strangely. The lizards look big enough to have inflicted the wounds seen on the mostly eaten humanoid bodies near the pond. Sahabiel and Lothlo have entered the grass slowly, while up ahead, Berotha and Naithi are about halfway through the shock grass to the copse, with Panzer able to join either group in the grass or leave it if he likes. Nightingale has retreated outside the shock grass.
What do our heroes do next?
Naithi (JamesD) AC: 19/14/16 HP: 113/114 , CMD = 22 Camalayas AC = 24/18/18 Thursday July 13th, 2023 10:53:37 PM
ooc: I'm not sure if I emailed the DM's, put it in my CS, or if it was stated in game, but Naithi has prepared the Goodberry spell every since escaping the orc camp in the first module. That means she typical has 4 days worth of berries on her as they expire after the fourth day. That means she typically has 4x(2d4) berries.
The spell also only allows a player to consume 8 berries per day. That is why I could only heal 16 out of 17 damage. Neither Naithi or Camalayas can consume any more berries today. Assuming that you do not re-,roll 1 fire good berries then Naithi has 4 left.
DM BatMark Note: I understand now that the rolls were for how many berries were created. You do not get to reroll for that, so original rolls apply.
Beech (JohnC) AC 19(23)/14/15,HP 46/46 Character Friday July 14th, 2023 9:49:02 AM "We have company a head. Not only the few thrashing in the grass, but there are a few more under the water too. They don't look friendly either." Beech won't start any combat, but is ready to try out a new spell, if a fight starts....(black tentacles)
Zazu Bridgebuilder (AC24, HP61) and Boyo the bunny (AC19, HP30) (Cayzle) Friday July 14th, 2023 10:02:31 AM
At this point, the Emissary is 30 ft up -- originally 10 ft up, and then levitate another 20 last round. Zazu levitates him another 20 ft up and grabs on. Boyo flies out back toward where Nightingale is waiting. Boyo can fly either 60 or 40 depending on how you count the load. How long to get back?
"Nightingale," Zazu messages, "I'm coming in with wounded. Please get ready to heal."
"People in the grass, there are dangerous lizard-folk at the center. Maybe come back rather than engage them? Or if we are engaging them, please let's all be together when we do?"
Naithi (JamesD) AC: 19/14/16 HP: 113/114 , CMD = 22 Camalayas AC = 24/18/18 d20=19 ; Friday July 14th, 2023 1:41:27 PM
Naithi raises her hand, tapping into the natural energy coursing through her veins. A shimmering emerald glow emanates from her fingertips as she weaves a delicate pattern in the air. The magic takes form, enveloping both herself and Camalayas like a second skin. Thick layers of bark gradually grow outwards from their bodies, intricately etched with intricate patterns resembling delicate fern leaves. Their appearance becomes an ethereal fusion of nature's strength and grace - a sight to behold.
Naithi's mischievous eyes sparkle with anticipation as she addresses the group. Let us withdraw and lead them into the dense grass. I'll stand ready to entangle then. Once they're tangled in its embrace, we can hurl whatever is handy and unleash a storm of lightning that will dance through the blades and strike them down!
Actions -------------- Naithi casts Bark armor on herself and Camalayas (duration is now 1/2 of normal for each)
Camalayas temporarily halts to see if the others retreat. If they do, she takes both herself and Naithi with them. If not, Camalayas will follow them forward it wait with the group.
Sahabiel (EstherLauren) -- AC 23/11/22 -- HP: 65/65 Friday July 14th, 2023 4:06:45 PM
Hearing Zazu's news, Sahabiel turns to Lothlo. "It sounds like Zazu is already bringing people back by air.. let us first turn back then and regroup outside the grass, my healing skills may be required for the wounded."
Having lost any urgency to get to the center of the grassy area for the moment, Sahabiel will return to the outer edge to regroup and hear in more detail of what Zazu saw.
Nightingale (JonS) HP 64/64 AC 21 CMD: 23 Friday July 14th, 2023 4:29:14 PM
Nightingale will follow her friends, and re-enter the grasses moving at 10' a round until she is through. Once on the other side she'll channel healing to those who did get zapped
Panzer Braun (David F) AC 28 (T16, FF24) CMD 29 HP 92/100 ) Character Sheet 2d6=7 ; 2d6=4 ; d20+7=12 ; d20+7=19 ; Friday July 14th, 2023 5:12:47 PM
OOC sorry, I have been sick the past couple of days. IC Panzer keeps up with Berotha. He figures that he can move at 20' with no issues and at 30' with minimal issues. So at 30 last round and 30 this round to get out of the yellow grass. The resist energy absorbs all the damage, no saves made
Lothlo (WillD) -- AC: 20/15/16, HP: 56/56, CMD: 23 Friday July 14th, 2023 5:46:56 PM Sounds like a wise plan Sahabiel, our priority is keeping the wounded safe. Once we're back out I'll provide cover with my bow
Berotha (Jason W) -- AC: 21/13/18, HP: 83/99, CMD: 29 Saturday July 15th, 2023 8:40:31 AM
Berotha follows back out of the grass, since the emissary has been retrieved. She walks slowly backwards, keeping a sharp eye out for any oncoming reptilians. "Lizard-lfolk? Try talking to them." She calls out loudly. "We make ourselves known. Make yourselves known and perhaps there can be peace."
OoC: Important difference between human-sized lizards and lizardfolk. Berotha just takes it at face value since she can't see any.
Advancing to the Rear (DM BatMark) Saturday July 15th, 2023 11:23:57 AM Beech yells down to the Wold-bound Champions that there are hostiles in the grass and water, and is ready to try a new spell if a fight starts. Zazu levitates the Emissary up to the same level that Boyo is flying at, then they fly back 60’ toward where Nightingale is located. The elf messages Nightingale that healing will be needed when they arrive. He also lets folks know about the lizards below and suggests moving back to avoid them, or at least engaging them all together. Naithi taps natural energies to give herself and Camalayas bark armor, then waits to see whether the others retreat or proceed before following suit. Sahabiel turns to Lothlo and suggests moving back outside the grass to regroup, heal, and hear the report from the airborne scouts. Lothlo agrees with Sahabiel about backing out. Nightingale prepares to reenter the grass, but has a moment to consider it when seeing everyone else retreating. Berotha follows slowly back out of the grass, ready to confront lizards or lizard folk, calling out to them. Panzer moves with Berotha, and is not concerned about the shock with the protective spell in place.
Zazu has brought the Emissary about two thirds of the way back across the yellow grass and can arrive to where the healers await next round. The trickster can tell that the Emissary is unconscious and slightly wounded, but the wounds themselves are not sufficient to explain the comatose state.
The rest of the party heads out of the grass for now, ready to heal those who need it, and then make a follow up plan as required.
Beech can see that the lizards (actual lizards, not lizard folk) are returning to the pond, and sees no sign that they are pursuing into the shock grass.
Panzer Braun (David F) AC 28 (T16, FF24) CMD 29 HP 92/100 ) Character Sheet Saturday July 15th, 2023 12:13:09 PM
Realizing that they need not fight the lizards, at lerast not yet, Panzer backs out of the grass slowly enough to not overburden the protection spell.
Beech (JohnC) AC 19(23)/14/15,HP 46/46 Character d20+11=29 ; Saturday July 15th, 2023 3:34:55 PM
Beech, moves back but stays above the others by 15 feet so he can spot and play high cover, at least until the spell wears off.
Perception 29
Nightingale (JonS) HP 64/64 AC 21 CMD: 23 Heal check: d20+11=26 ; Saturday July 15th, 2023 8:40:06 PM
Once the Emissary is down, Nightingale will move to determine what is wrong with him, thus deciding whether she needs to dispel poisons, or just channel health amongst everyone
Success, or otherwise? Monday July 17th, 2023 4:53:59 AM
Sahabiel Withdraws from the grass in agreement with Lothlo. Panzer Safely withdraws from the dangerous grass and looks around to assess the current situation safe in the knowledge that his protection remains in place. Zazu Taking care not to exacerbate any injuries Zazu heads back to the healers. Beech Flying high above the scene Beech sees that the lizard creatures have departed the scene by disappearing into the pool. Looking further afield, he spots three small, black shapes in the distance. Having keen senses Beech is fairly certain that they are crows. Lothlo Withdraws from the grass also. Naithi Sees the others backing out from the grass and that Zazu is carefully depositing the Emissary near Nightingale. Nightingale Nightingale waits as Zazu carefully lowers the emissary. Once Zazu has deposited the emissary, Nightingale was confident she could assist, until then, she would have to wait. Berotha The lizards do no respond to Berotha, instead electing to vanish from sight. Berotha successfully backs out of the grass without incurring further harm.
With care Zazu lowers the elf to a patch of grass that seems free from peril. The wind picks up slightly and the grasses sway and their whistling sussurations seem to complain of the loss of their company, or prey. Yet maybe it is nothing more than the wind. Gathering anew, the group sees that they have indeed found the journeyman emissary. Clad in green and brown finely made leathers that are now dusty and dirty from his travels. They cover a fine chain shirt. He lies unmoving on the sward. Nightingale’s careful ministrations lead her to the conclusion that he is afflicted by a poison of some sort. Her insight into such matters yields her to conclude that the Elf is indeed poisoned, but the effects seem fleeting. She doubts that she'll even need magic to effect a cure: simply being away from grass and time will be sufficient to put the elf back on his feet. What is apparent to all, is that there is a satchel slung cross wise over his torso. A long curved blade dangles from his belt. It is matched by a quiver of arrows at the other hip. Of a bow, there is no sight.
In view of this, the group elects to…….
Berotha (Jason W) -- AC: 21/13/18, HP: 83/99, CMD: 29 d20+13=15 ; Monday July 17th, 2023 10:19:52 AM
Berotha tries to figure out what the poison may be but is distracted by the lizards and lighting grass (15 heal).
Then she checks the satchel to see if its contents will illuminate the situation at all while the others tend to him. "Maybe this will help us know what is going on and how to help..."
Panzer Braun (David F) AC 28 (T16, FF24) CMD 29 HP 92/100 ) Character Sheet d20+4=20 ; Monday July 17th, 2023 11:06:15 AM
OOC Nightengale's Heal roll is up in the rolls area. He tags his rolls up in the roll box. (Thanks for that - Post above amended)** IC Panzer looks the emissary over." He doesn't look that beat up. Is he poisoned or diseased?" Not skilled in these things the Badgerkin can only guess. In his wheelhouse though is being ready for stuff to go wrong so he keeps his knives drawn and patrols the area. Perception 20
Beech (JohnC) AC 19(23)/14/15,HP 51/51 Character Monday July 17th, 2023 12:36:40 PM
Beech, while the fly spell lasts, will search for the missing bow. He will plan on being back with the group a good 1/2 minute before the fly wears off.
Highlight to display spoiler: {Beech is ready to be examined after leveling.}
Beech:Highlight to display spoiler: {Noted. It will be tomorrow before I get chance to check anything.}
Zazu Bridgebuilder (AC24, HP61) and Boyo the bunny (AC19, HP30) (Cayzle) d20+22=29 ; Monday July 17th, 2023 2:58:07 PM
Zazu keeps alert while waiting for the Emissary to recover. "We can just wait, right?"
Perception 29
Nightingale (JonS) HP 64/64 AC 21 CMD: 23 Channel Health (4D6): d6=2 ; d6=6 ; d6=3 ; d6=1 ; d6=1 ; d6=2 ; Monday July 17th, 2023 4:55:14 PM
Nightingale channels health, providing 13 hit points back to all around her (we do re-roll 1's right?)
(OOC: Yes, Curative 1's are re-rolled.)
Sahabiel (EstherLauren) -- AC 23/11/22 -- HP: 65/65 d20+13=30 ; Monday July 17th, 2023 6:09:11 PM (ooc: Yes, healing dice that come up 1 get a re-roll, so roll your dice separately)
Sahabiel lends her knowledge as a healer to the effort to safe the emissary. While delivering treatment she wonders about the source of the poison, and if it entered the body through a wound - should they be on the lookout for the plants, or for a bite from those lizards Lothlo talked about?
Heal 1d20+13 = 30
Lothlo (WillD) -- AC: 20/15/16, HP: 56/56, CMD: 23 d20+5=18 ; Monday July 17th, 2023 7:25:10 PM Sahabiel, do you see what poisoned him? If he wakes up soon he may be able to tell us. Is something has already taken out multiple people with poison, we probably want to make sure we have a way to deal with it before venturing back in. Lothlo tries to remember whether he's heard about those lizards before, and more importantly whether he's heard of a way to neutralize their poison.
Knowledge (nature)=18
Naithi (JamesD) AC: 19/14/16 HP: 113/114 , CMD = 22 Camalayas AC = 24/18/18 d20+4=16 ; Monday July 17th, 2023 8:46:48 PM
Naithi readies her bedroll, and if something nasty appreciate she will their it into the grass as hard and fast as she can to trigger a spark.
Strength check= 16
DM: Nick K. Hurry up and wait Tuesday July 18th, 2023 5:07:31 AM
Sahabiel Sahabial thoughtful considers the poison’s origin. Panzer Keeps his senses open and remains alert for more trouble. Zazu Remains alert also. Queries the emissary’s condition. Beech Searches for the missing bow.. Lothlo Is filled with questions.. Naithi Readies for counter-attack. Nightingale Channels healing Berotha Thinks to examine the satchel
The positive energy channelled by Nightingale has a marked effect upon the recumbent elf. He immediately looks a lot better. A moment later, he coughs, splutters, leans to his left and spits out something that smells bad. His hands then feel about his person, even before he has opened his eyes. ”Water. Where’s my…?” He blinks in shock at the group arrayed around him and reflexively, his hand darts for his blade. Yet he makes no attempt to draw it. It was clear from the assorted faces studying him that there was no malice, only concern to be seen.
Further afield, Beech assiduously scans the area for any sign of the bow. Beech. Highlight to display spoiler: { Perception roll. DC:22 enables Beech to spot the bow. It has been dropped amongst the grass. To recover it safely and swiftly will require a Fly check. DC:20.}
Nightingale Highlight to display spoiler: { is fairly sure that the poison somehow emanates from the grass itself – more precisely a certain type of grass.}
Those keeping a weather eye on their surroundings not only that the three birds – now almost certainly identified as crows are erratically heading your way.
Seeing the elf awaken, Lothlo eager awaits answers to his many questions. None as yet, are forthcoming.
Berotha lifts the satchel, prior to the emissary’s awakening. She was at the point of flipping it open, but stopped. Was that a sigil warding it? It gave her pause. Before anything further could be done, Nightingale’s healing pulsed deliciously through her and everyone else. The elf started awake and Berotha let the satchel fall back into place.
…..questions/actions?
Berotha (Jason W) -- AC: 21/13/18, HP: 83/99, CMD: 29 Tuesday July 18th, 2023 11:36:04 AM
Berotha stands up and eyes the crows, holding her glaive ready. "Strange. I hope those are not hostile." To the emissary, she inquires "Did those lizards take you down?"
OoC: Indeed. The purpose of Berotha speaking aloud was that the emissary would know I had no intrusive intentions should he come to suddenly. So thanks for interpreting it thus, GM. Also, Berotha has 20 ft reach with her glaive and combat reflexes. If the crows approach any of us in a hostile fashion, I'd like to try to take them down before they can do any harm.
Beech (JohnC) AC 19(23)/14/15,HP 51/51 Character d20+11=18 ; Tuesday July 18th, 2023 11:45:38 AM
Beech fails to spot the Bow, but continues to search for the fly duration.....
Nightingale (JonS) HP 64/64 AC 21 CMD: 23 Tuesday July 18th, 2023 2:11:03 PM
Nightingale will warn the others, "The poison is plant based, somehow its emanating from the grasses itself. We need to be cautious around this area ... I wish there was someway to warn others about this."
Sahabiel (EstherLauren) -- AC 23/11/22 -- HP: 65/65 Tuesday July 18th, 2023 4:47:21 PM
Sahabiel removes the stopper from her waterskin and, just to be on the safe side, briefly recites the prayer for the purification of food and drink over its contents. With that, she kneels down again by emissary Waesberos and holds the opening close to the man's lips. In her accented Common with an obvious wood-elf twang, she gently tells the man; "Easy now, here's water and we have healers with us. We found ya unconscious and with sign of poison at work, so take small sips, don't gulp, or ya might end up not holding it in. And after ye've had something to drink, try see if ya remember what happened before you collapsed?"
Panzer Braun (David F) AC 28 (T16, FF24) CMD 29 HP 100/100 ) Character Sheet Tuesday July 18th, 2023 6:24:35 PM " Thanks for the heals Nightengale. Now, what are those birds on about? Are they angry, or maybe messengers? I do NOT like they way they are coming at us in formation like that. And the erratic way they are flying....could they be undead?" Panzer uncharacteristically changes to his bow, and nocks an arrow. " Beech, 'ware the birds, I don't like the look of them. Your mom have anything to do with blackbird messengers on account of where she lives? If not I think it best they not reach us. That's just the paranoid fighter in me though. What do I know?"
OOC How far out are these birds and how fast are they closing?
Lothlo (WillD) -- AC: 20/15/16, HP: 56/56, CMD: 23 Tuesday July 18th, 2023 8:51:44 PM Wait... the grass? The grass is poison? Didn't we determine that someone deliberately planted the grass? Do you think that means they are trying to guard or protect something in there?
Any signs if the poison is transferred by touch? Or possible inhaled?
Zazu Bridgebuilder (AC24, HP61) and Boyo the bunny (AC19, HP30) (Cayzle) Tuesday July 18th, 2023 9:06:10 PM
Zazu and Boyo fly up to the level of the birds.
"Hail, noble avians," declaims Zazu in common and sylvan. "Welcome and well met! Perchance we can proffer hospitality in welcome to you!"
DM: Nick K. Not something you see every day Wednesday July 19th, 2023 8:05:51 AM
The crows seem odd, disturbingly so to Zazu. Even though they are a good distance away (c150') it's clear to the Trickster that something is definitely 'off' about them. As they approach Zazu offers a friendly greeting. It is met with a loud, raucous chorus of 'caws'.
Zazu. Highlight to display spoiler: {Being the closest you note that the birds' eyes are red. That redness is unnerving and you would, if pushed even slightly, deem it unnatural. }
Those below hear the distant cawing. it does not sound as welcoming as Zazu's greeting. The noise grates at the senses, sending shivers down spines. (or F:14 to withstand this strange disturbance) Were they speaking in some Hellish manner? (Those familiar with the Draconic tongue feel that it is perhaps something vaguely kin to it, but at the same time, far darker. Those that DO speak Draconic can identify the word "or", but the rest is lost.)
The birds swoop towards Zazu suddenly, but vanish in inky explosions before they are targeted. that darkness dissipates, leaving nothing in its wake.
On the ground, Waesberos gratefully imbibes the proffered water. he partakes judiciously and nods his thanks before speaking.
"Yes, 'tis indeed the grass that did poison me. I had hoped to escape its effects, but the lizards were an unanticipated obstacle; they seem to have some sort of ....immunity...to there grasses hereabouts. Most fortuitously, they are not brave. I scaled yonder tree with the last of my strength. most fortunate am I that you did happen upon me. Might i ask - what reason have you to be in a desolate spot?" he then nodded to Lothlo. "The poison is air borne and released whenever a traveller passes through." he takes another small sip of water. "Hmm, alas, 'twould appear that I have misplaced my bow. That is most unhelpful."
It is almost exactly at this point that Beech spots the end of something that could well be the emissary's bow. Unfortunately it lies amongst the toxic grass.
Berotha (Jason W) -- AC: 21/13/18, HP: 83/99, CMD: 29 d20+10=13 ; Wednesday July 19th, 2023 10:13:09 AM
Berotha shivers at the odd crows (fort 13).
But still protected by her lightning spell and confident in her fortitude, Berotha is willing to try the grasses. "If one of you can easily retrieve it magically, by all means. If not, I will retrieve it." To Nightingale's comment, she replies "I will fashion a few wooden signs before we leave. They will be rough-hewn but I believe they will suffice."
Beech (JohnC) AC 19(23)/14/15,HP 51/51 Character Wednesday July 19th, 2023 10:16:31 AM
Beech pulls out his rope of climbing, commanding it to attach to the part of the bow he can see. He then pulls it up and flies back to the group. Stashing the rope and being ready to hand over the bow.
Naithi (JamesD) AC: 19/14/16 HP: 113/114 , CMD = 22 Camalayas AC = 24/18/18 Wednesday July 19th, 2023 1:45:03 PM
Naithi rides towards her companions when she sees the lizards won't attack. With a sultry smile she almost purrs Darlings, before we go , I think it best this treacherous poison speaking grass meet its demise. We can't have such wickedness spreading like wildfire across the Culverwood, now can we? It is better to destroy it before the grass spreads and those lizards breed or have more friends join them.
Nightingale (JonS) HP 64/64 AC 21 CMD: 23 Wednesday July 19th, 2023 1:57:57 PM
Nightingale drops her head. "I am loathe to destroy the grasses, but, they do pose a great risk to the region, especially if they do expand. Not being a druid, there is little magic I have that can impact these grasses."
Panzer Braun (David F) AC 28 (T16, FF24) CMD 29 HP 100/100 ) Character Sheet d20+10=17 ; Wednesday July 19th, 2023 2:14:27 PM
Fort 17(19 if Bravery counts) " Told you! Creepy smoke birds." "When did we decide someone planted this grass here? Can't it just be another murderous extension of the Creepy Culverwood you all love so much? If you want it gone I would ask Beech," Panzer says with a smile." It's been at least a day since he has burned anything into crispy charred and no longer living ash. I mean as long as the grass is flammable that is." Panzer puts his bow away, confident that Lothlo can easily target and shoot down any number of those 'smoke birds' that come back.
Lothlo (WillD) -- AC: 20/15/16, HP: 56/56, CMD: 23 Wednesday July 19th, 2023 3:05:35 PM
Lothlo notices Panzer put away his bow, and keeps an eye on his situation so that he can provide backup should things turn bad. Any chance you know what those birds are, and if they are dangerous? Until we retrieve your bow, why don't you take one of my slings and some bullets so you aren't defenseless.
I definitely agree that if there is an invasive grass that poisons everything that enters that it will need to be removed, but we would want to make sure we find a way that doesn't accidentally poison everyone in the process, and that won't send seeds everywhere. Better to keep in contained in one spot for the moment than to act too hastily.
Sahabiel, who does speak Draconic about as well as she speaks Common, looks up at the curious birds cawing in sounds that birds should not be making, and just in time to witness them exploding into little clouds of darkness.
"I know of crows mimicking sounds, but.. this is the first time I have heard any that sound almost draconic. And that is just where this begins being strange."
After it is established that Zazu was not hurt by the event, she ponders; "If it wasn't coincidence, I could make out the word, '...or...' something. Perhaps summoned creatures set to warn away anyone flying over this area? But that they should dissipate as darkness is a little too suspicious, given what we are up against of late, no?"
She draws her heavy morningstar, and holds it in front of her pointed towards the copse at the center of the area of tall grass. Sternly she declares; "...someone went to some trouble to keep people away from whatever lies there, and that those crows should be summoned of shadow and darkness just now gives me cause to believe it may be the cabal of those dark druids. Forewarned, I believe we should be able to reach the center without joining the victims.. and ya better believe I want to find out what they are hiding there. And after that..." She lowers her weapon and turns to Beech, suddenly putting on her kinder smiling face again. "The true Culverwood demands that those who dwell by it, nurture it or at least do not cause it harm.", she begins in her preaching voice, before getting very specific with a bit of nature and agricultural lore, "Occasional grass fires are an essential part of the growth cycle of a forest, cracking the soil open and rendering low vegetation into charcoal which enriches the topsoil and prepares it for a greater diversity of vegetation. Depending on what we find, I might in fact recommend that when the emissary reports this back to the city, Karri send out some armed people to perform a thorough controlled burn here. So.. if ya'd feel inclined to pre-burn us a path from here to the center and call it a fire trench, it would hear no objections from me."
Sahabiel (EstherLauren) -- AC 23/11/22 -- HP: 65/65 Wednesday July 19th, 2023 4:08:07 PM (ooc: My bad, I forgot that in the moment of the bird scene Beech would still be out flying and trying to retrieve that lost bow. Let's say that part of my post happens once he is back then.)
Zazu Bridgebuilder (AC24, HP61) and Boyo the bunny (AC19, HP30) (Cayzle) Thursday July 20th, 2023 12:55:38 AM
Zazu and Boyo fly over to where the birds vanished. Boyo sniffs (scent) to make sure they are not invisible, and to see if the smell means anything. Zazu tries to sense the dire bunny's emotional state as it does so.
"Nasty birds," Zazu mutters.
Zazu Bridgebuilder (AC24, HP61) and Boyo the bunny (AC19, HP30) (Cayzle) d20+22=24 ; Thursday July 20th, 2023 12:56:42 AM
Oh, and Zazu keeps alert for any sound of flapping, or other signs.
Perception 24
Naithi (JamesD) AC: 19/14/16 HP: 113/114 , CMD = 22 Camalayas AC = 24/18/18 Thursday July 20th, 2023 1:00:37 AM
ooc: I need to go back and look, but I thought sometime had said the the grass was not naturally occurring. Maybe I missed that.
DM: Nick K. A vexing matter Thursday July 20th, 2023 6:05:02 AM
Sahabiel .Postulates that the grass and birds are part of a design to protect something at the centre of the grasses. She has no great objection to burning the grass. Panzer Wilfully represses any shudders and calmly puts his bow away confident that others have the matter in hand. Zazu Checks for the potential return of the ominous birds Beech Cleverly uses his magical rope to extract the bow. Lothlo Remains vigilant whilst espousing concerns that any attempts to destroy the grass might actually make matters worse. Naithi Advocates destroying the poisonous grass. Nightingale Has reservations about destroying the grass. Berotha Suggests leaving warning signs regarding the perils of the grass.
A vexing matter
Boyo identifies the unmistakable aroma of sulphur. Zazu needs no empathic link to note that same smell. The wind however catches it. It vanishes shortly after the strange birds. Zazu would find it difficult to imagine that any of the others below would smell it. Neither of them, nor the group below sees any sign that the strange creatures might return. Beech returns with the bow.
The emissary coughs a little and looks up once more at the group gathered around him. Feeling uncomfortable, he slowly stands. He looks pale, but stands proudly as befits a man of his station. He pulls his tunic straighter and checks the satchel. He taps it reassuringly. ”Ah, my bow. My thanks, good sir. Alas, I did drop it in my haste to be free of the toxins. It would seem that mayhap I do owe you good folk my very life.” he bows formerly; a move he executes with practiced ease. He looks around, but sees no evidence of what has so many scouring the skies. ”Is there yet more trouble?” He asked with evident concern, his fingers fumbling for his quiver. Patently the man is not yet fully recovered, but determined to aid his rescuers. Picking up on the conversation about the grass, he offered his own thoughts, albeit quietly. ”I know but little of such things, yet I would envisage that burning yonder grass would only inhibit its effects for a short duration. As is correctly observed, burning grassland can actually stimulate growth as the ground is enriched. Seeds will inevitably survive. More, some plants must be eradicated at the root lest they spring forth anew. ‘Tis a vexing matter for sure.”
As eyes turn to Waesberos no other creatures attend to divert the group’s attention. For the moment, all seems quiet.
Berotha (Jason W) -- AC: 21/13/18, HP: 83/99, CMD: 29 Thursday July 20th, 2023 9:19:55 AM
Berotha nods Sahabiel. "A good point. It does seem a suspicious copse. I would be willing to help investigate the center, those bodies, and put down the lizards if they make it necessary." She addresses Waesberos "Can you tell us anything else about this area or these recent events?"
Naithi (JamesD) AC: 19/14/16 HP: 113/114 , CMD = 22 Camalayas AC = 24/18/18 d20+11=18 ; d20+11=30 ; d20+11=14 ; Thursday July 20th, 2023 2:31:00 PM Give me a moment. There might be another way to deal with the grass. The air on the breeze coming from the North is damper. My guess is that either the damp air is sustaining the grass, the grass is damaging the air, or something further North is responsible for all of this. That might be the key to defeating the grasses and what brought forth those shadow things. Naithi examines the grass the environment.
Knowledge Nature to glean information on the damp breeze, shadow druids, and ways to defeat the grass = 18, 30, 14
Nightingale (JonS) HP 64/64 AC 21 CMD: 23 Thursday July 20th, 2023 3:25:34 PM
Nightingale has an almost pained expression on her face as she states, "Beech and I together can probably kill the grasses that are there. The ground would then need to be heavily salted to stop the roots from living."
Lothlo (WillD) -- AC: 20/15/16, HP: 56/56, CMD: 23 Thursday July 20th, 2023 6:01:12 PM Before we do too much damage to the area, we might want to get some more information about what was found inside the copse. Is there anything inside that needs our immediate attention? Anyone else that needs saving? Any reason we wouldn't want to come back tomorrow with someone knowledgeable about such plants that can make sure we proceed in a safe manner?
Beech (JohnC) AC 19(23)/14/15,HP 51/51 Character Thursday July 20th, 2023 7:08:46 PM
Beech nods to the emissary as he says thanks, he then waits for things to be discussed before pitching in his 2 coppers worth. "A simple question, just who do we contact about grasses native to the southern continent. Now going to buy a bunch of salt or even lye I can see. But unless someone actually knows someone who knows about these grasses, waiting another would be a waste of our time. I can freeze for a short time, but fire is easier for me, and before you say it may help it grow, which is true, but it should take most of a season, unless it has a magically boosted growth cycle."
Zazu Bridgebuilder (AC24, HP61) and Boyo the bunny (AC19, HP30) (Cayzle) d20+6=10 ; Thursday July 20th, 2023 9:34:47 PM
Untrained Knowledge of History 10
"I thought I might have heard about mutant grasses back in the day ... but I can't remember."
Sahabiel (EstherLauren) -- AC 23/11/22 -- HP: 65/65 Friday July 21st, 2023 12:43:22 AM (ooc: Sorry about the late post)
Sahabiel returns her attention to the emissary. "It seems we have questions. Would ya happen to know any more? Like, what attracted you to go inside there in the first place, in yer search for the missing scouts?"
DM: Nick K. So many questions Friday July 21st, 2023 6:23:58 AM
Sahabiel Questions the emissary Panzer Abides Zazu Tries to recall details about strange grasses Beech Offers option for dealing with the poisonous grass. Lothlo Lothlo seeks more details Naithi Considers the variables at work. Nightingale Believes that between herself and Beech the grasses can be eradicated, albeit the thought of such destruction is unpleasant. Berotha Questions the emissary
The emissary sighed. So many questions and none of his answered. It seemed that patience and diplomacy were warranted. He saw no need for haste; at least, not currently, so took another small sip of water before composing himself. He straightened, rolled his shoulders back and gave a weak smile before relaying what he knew.
"Permit me to address the questions that you raise and then perhaps you will answer a few of my own." He turned first to Berotha. "Verily, 'twas indeed the missing scouts that I did seek. Yonder bodies though, be not they. Nomads of some sort; they did have an orcish mein or so it seemed to me. Alas, the lizards had feasted well and so true identification was not possible. Sadly I did not determine as much until deep in their demesne." "As to those lizards, it is my firm impression that they are not unnatural, but opportunists that have somehow formed a union with the grasses. The poison affects them not. The blood that leeches from their kills undoubtedly helps sustain the plants. Would that I had known this beforehand." "With regard to more recent events..." He paused and gave a slight grimace. "My task has been twofold: to find the missing scouts and to deliver certain..." He looked at his satchel, muttered quietly in Elven and tapped the flap before opening it.
(Perception DC:20 to hear the softly spoken words and must understand Elven.)Highlight to display spoiler: {"In the Name of the Queen"}
He then paused, even with the satchel flipped open and revealing its contents: letters, it seemed. "Ah, but all things in their time. I shall come to that presently. You did ask about my knowledge hereabouts. Alas, tis scant. I am but passing through."
He next turned to face Naithi. "Burn as you will. It is a natural occurrence and if my understanding has the right of it will serve to enrich the ground and permit the growth of ....other plants, at least until the grasses again take over. I know not of what other things you speak." (Waesberos had been barely coherent at the time the crows made their appearance. Moreover they were at a distance. For him, there is no reason to link the two incidents.)
To Nightingale he spoke next, his voice soft and soothing. "The lizards are safe in their watery home. Burning the grass might save some errant traveller. If you deem it worth the expenditure of such magical energies, proceed. Alternatively, mayhap a sign or two might serve a similar purpose - at least until sager minds can be consulted."
He then shook his head at Lothlo and smiled ruefully. "A veritable barrage of question, good sir. I shall strive for brevity in my responses. No, there be naught therein that requires your aid. Returning is an option, but not for me, for I have tasks that must be completed." He again tapped the satchel.
Next he turned to the liontaur. "Would that I could provide the answers you seek, but of witches and druids, my knowledge is scant and as I have stated, I have more pressing priorities." He concluded apologetically.
Lastly he turned to Sahabiel. "I saw what I believed to be people in need; fallen bodies. Naturally, it occurred to me that one might be a missing scout and so I entered. Most carefully and stealthily did I approach in case of alerting predators. Alas, my caution was insufficient. The grass did release its toxins and in my stumbling haste to escape I encountered the shock-grass and was pursued by the lizards. I back-tracked swiftly and managed to clamber up yonder tree before succumbing to the poison. And there you found me, I believe, for which - my thanks. So, again I enquire: what is it that brings you to such a desolate location? Tell me what you know that we might amass a singular body of knowledge." His hand stayed on the satchel, inhibiting the view of it held, but he did not close it.
Berotha (Jason W) -- AC: 21/13/18, HP: 83/99, CMD: 29 Friday July 21st, 2023 10:11:46 AM
Berotha nods apologetically to the emissary, having forgotten to answer his question in her eagerness. "We were sent to help with the missing scouts, particularly you. It was feared that you had run into trouble."
Naithi (JamesD) AC: 19/14/16 HP: 113/114 , CMD = 22 Camalayas AC = 24/18/18 Friday July 21st, 2023 2:14:50 PM
Naithi let's the more diplomatic speakers do their thing. Although she thinks the grass a problem, she assumes the man knows what he is talking about and accepts the grass can be dealt with later.
Panzer Braun (David F) AC 28 (T16, FF24) CMD 29 HP 100/100 ) Character Sheet Friday July 21st, 2023 4:46:20 PM
Panzer wanders about the area. When nothing was actively trying to kill him and conversations about what to do bogged down he tended to just lose interest.
Lothlo (WillD) -- AC: 20/15/16, HP: 56/56, CMD: 23 Friday July 21st, 2023 6:31:40 PM Yes, we were sent to find those that had gone missing in the woods. If the grass produced the poison in the air, I wonder if a strong wind or rain would disperse in the short term. It would be good if we could confirm who has fallen to the poison and whether there are still more missing.
Nightingale (JonS) HP 64/64 AC 21 CMD: 23 Friday July 21st, 2023 9:29:56 PM
Once the Emissary takes a breathing break, Nightingale will ask a question of her own, "If the scouts passed through here, then where did they go?"
Zazu Bridgebuilder (AC24, HP61) and Boyo the bunny (AC19, HP30) (Cayzle) d20+6=8 ; Saturday July 22nd, 2023 12:55:16 AM
[OOC: With +22 Perception, read the spoiler without a roll.]
Zazu tries to get a handle on the geography of the situation. How far from Freedom's Landing is this patch of grass? Is it in the Culverwood or in the Emerald Kingdom?
Untrained Know Geography 8
Beech (JohnC) AC 19(23)/14/15,HP 51/51 Character d20+11=25 ; Saturday July 22nd, 2023 12:33:57 PM "Well, If they went through here, there is one possibility everyone seems to be glossing over. What if the Scouts passed through, and then the Grass grew, if that's what happened, then the growth cycle of this grass is extremely fast and Burning it may be a mistake. That fast a growth cycle would probably cause it to spread a little, but at least it would reset the seeding time witch will let it spread quite bit more than burning it would...."
Perception 25 picks up the phrase with one of his newer skills....
Sahabiel (EstherLauren) -- AC 23/11/22 -- HP: 65/65 d20+7=9 ; Saturday July 22nd, 2023 1:48:10 PM Perception d20+7 = 9, Sahabiel is clearly not paying attention to any spoken passwords
Sahabiel fills the emissary in on their reason to be here in some more detail. "More specifically.. we heard that a scout party bound for the Culverwood had gone missing, and that ya yerself were late to return when ya went in search of them. Since we've recently become aware ourselves of a great disturbance in the Culverwood, which seems related to reports of dark druid activity observed by the adventurers of the Tree of Parting, we have taken to investigating such events in an attempt to better understand what we are up against. Since unexplained problems are now occurring around the Tree of Parting in the far east of the kingdom, Freedom Landing in the far west, and now possibly also north of the Capital, that makes.. well.. basically all directions in which the Emerald Kingdom has borders with the Culverwood. This is a problem that must not be underestimated."
Panzer Braun (David F) AC 28 (T16, FF24) CMD 29 HP 100/100 ) Character Sheet Sunday July 23rd, 2023 9:55:31 PM
Panzer has missed most of the conversaion thus far so just asks. " The emissary has his own tasks to complete and we still haven't found the scouts. Are we going into the grass to look over those corpses and see if we can find a trail or some dark activity or are we moving on looking for the scouts? If we are moving on then we are all burning daylight here." Blunt as a hammer falling off a table on your foot Panzer tries to prod the group to action rather than rumor mongering.
DM: Nick K. So many questions Monday July 24th, 2023 5:01:49 AM Sahabiel Summaries things for Waesberos most helpfully. Panzer Patrolled the area while matters were discussed and then unsubtlely prods the group into action. Zazu Attempts to determine their location within the regions. Beech Ponders the speed at which the grass grows. Lothlo Wonders about the fallen. Naithi Defers to her more diplomatic friends. Nightingale Asks where the scouts went. Berotha Explains apologetically.
An Invitation
The elf did not at first respond. He stood and pondered all that had been said. Next he took another small sip of water. He held up a single finger seeking patience as he ruminated further on all he had heard. Finally he nodded and spoke.
"Hmmm. It is clear that you do indeed have not only my best interests at heart, but also those of the Culverwood. To that end I would ask that you redirect your efforts...elsewhere. Permit me to explain”. He stretched easing stiffness and began to regain some of his natural colour.
”My tasks were twofold. One, as you’ve identified, is to seek the missing scouts. Thus far, I have found one. He was dead – or rather undead. I laid him to rest, more permanently. Now, I would continue with this task, but as stated, have another.” He tapped his satchel.
”I would ask that you take this to the Queen herself, deep in the Culverwood. He smiled grimly. ”What it contains….I will speak plainly. These are responses to a royal invitation. In but one week’s time the Firefly Ball takes place. It is not the frivolous affair that you might think. Well, perhaps there is more than a little frivolity, but such is not its purpose. This is a spiritual event as much as one for merriment and it serves to bring unity and strength to the fey and their kin. More! Given recent ….events...it affords us an excellent opportunity to network amongst others and collate information. What this satchel contains are responses; whether yea or nay and mayhap tis the nays that will yield most information. Will you good folk take this to Her Majesty that I might continue? I am due to meet with a White Witch come the morrow and likely she will know the best means of eradicating this threat.” He gestured towards the toxic grass.
From his words you would ascertain that the land in which you presently stand is in the Emerald Kingdom.
Nightingale (JonS) HP 64/64 AC 21 CMD: 23 Monday July 24th, 2023 6:24:11 AM
Nightingale softly replies, "The Queen. Yes, this is a noble thing you ask of us. I for one will accept your request."
Berotha (Jason W) -- AC: 21/13/18, HP: 83/99, CMD: 29 Monday July 24th, 2023 7:29:54 AM
Berotha raises an eyebrow, interested in meeting this Queen. But she knew the fey could be capricious and deceptive. "Er... um... I apologize but I am new to these parts. Does this Queen honor the safety and freedom of messengers?"
DM: Nick K. Character Sheet Access Monday July 24th, 2023 10:34:44 AM
OOC: Can everyone please check that I have EDIT access to their character sheets. I cannot Approve them otherwise. (This may only apply to Beech, but I'd be grateful if you'd check). Merci beaucoup.
Naithi (JamesD) AC: 19/14/16 HP: 113/114 , CMD = 22 Camalayas AC = 24/18/18 d20+1=18 ; d20+1=21 ; d20+1=5 ; d20+5=15 ; Monday July 24th, 2023 2:36:17 PM
Naithi quickly tracker her brain as she tries to recall who the White Witch is.
Beech (JohnC) AC 19(23)/14/15,HP 51/51 Character Monday July 24th, 2023 5:15:13 PM "I expect some of us here know which way to go, to reach The Queen. That is not one of my skills, But I'm positive we as a group can successfully get the messages to The Queen." Beech double checks his gear, and the amount of magical energy he still has stored up. As a result, he's ready to go in a very few moments.....
Sahabiel (EstherLauren) -- AC 23/11/22 -- HP: 65/65 Monday July 24th, 2023 5:28:55 PM
Seeing who the parcel of response letters is to be delivered unto, and where, Sahabiel nods silently and looks up at the phase of the moon, before saying, "...I see. It makes sense that it would have to be now, at a time of crossroads. It is lucky then that She has smiled on us only recently, that favor may yet help us gain access through the layers of her Court.. and now I wonder if She foresaw this future and for that reason appeared to us after we laid low the Dread Three and broke their despoiling staff. In any case, as this will take us well into the Deep Culverwood and then ascend the layers of the Deeper, on our next rest I will make sure to study the prayer for piercing the boundary between the Wold and the Faery under our own power, should such become necessary."
Turning to Berotha, she half-answers, "Queen Maab saw fit to grant us each one of her moonflower gifts only recently, so she would bear us no ill will. All the same.. nobody can promise ya that nothing will ever happen to mortals calling on any of the high Fey Courts even with the best of intentions, so when we get there just.. avoid being offensive. Or too interesting."
To her cousin Nightingale, she then jokes that when Nightingale sends her prayers to Maab tonight, she might add sincere wishes to see her soon again.
And remembering the almost-incident with the Twigjacks, she lastly turns to Zazu, and adds, "Zazu, if you think of entertaining the fey with any of your exploding trap-boxes again, could ya warn me before ya do?"
(ooc: Depending on how far north of the Emerald City this took place, we might still be able to stock up for this journey in the towns of Titania or Dunadori before we get to the Deep Culverwood?)
Panzer Braun (David F) AC 28 (T16, FF24) CMD 29 HP 100/100 ) Character Sheet Monday July 24th, 2023 6:03:27 PM " I don't like games, especially when they wager my life." SOMETHING has gotten under Panzer's skin and he is clearly Very agitated by it. " If she knew the answers that could help us fight this then why not give them to us? I was sincere when I said I would fix the problem with the darkness if only she gave me her support. Now we have to go play stupid fey games to win stupid fey prizes?" " Really?" " I guess I have some room in my schedule for more nonsense, so lets get going" The Badgerkin stands with his hands on his hips waiting for one of those who can to open the pathway to the Deeper Culverwood so that Panzer can be immersed in more courtly intrigue instead of solving problems directly.
Zazu Bridgebuilder (AC24, HP61) and Boyo the bunny (AC19, HP30) (Cayzle) Monday July 24th, 2023 6:31:57 PM
Zazu laughs when Sahabiel mentions the glyph boxes. "I only have one left! I have to get you to make me more some day!"
"But I have better tricks than that now!" The arcane trickster smiles mischievously. "Don't worry, I'll tell you first."
To the emissary: "Good sir, we will accept your invitation. Boyo has a moonflower, too, see!" The magic flower tucked behind the dire bunny's ear starts to glow. "And good luck with your witch. If you end up in Emerald City, maybe send word of these deeds to the ruling council there?" Zazu mentions the council members with whom the party has had the friendliest dealings. "They should know about this, seeing as we're in the Emerald Kingdom."
Zazu listens intently to any directions given to get the group to the Ball. The elf knows that the party will rely on those born in the Culverwood (like Zazu) to guide them safely.
Lothlo (WillD) -- AC: 20/15/16, HP: 56/56, CMD: 23 Monday July 24th, 2023 9:05:40 PM That does sounds a much more sensible course of action than further investigating an area where the air itself is trying to kill us. We would be honored to deliver the invitations.
DM: Nick K. Careful now Tuesday July 25th, 2023 5:04:54 AM
Sahabiel Explains about Queen Maab and the dangers of the Fey. Panzer The prospect of more Fey politics does not please him at all. Zazu Agrees to give warning of his tricks and to undertake the request. Beech Agrees to take the responses to the Queen. Lothlo Accepts the new task. Naithi Ponders who the White Witch might be.. Nightingale Accepts the new challenge. Berotha Queries the safety of messengers.
Waesberos nods at mention of the Moonflowers. ”My thanks, indeed. It is good that you are cognizant of the myriad forces at work in the court.” He looks around.”You are but one days travel, mayhap two from Dunadori. You have time, should you wish, to garner such supplies as you might wish, but speak not of this errand. Also I prithee, keep the satchel hidden from scrutiny. The Unseelie and the Dark has spies aplenty. Tis possible that I am being overly cautious, but the arrival of those Infernal crows does not bode well.” He again looked about, taking care to scan the skies in particular.
”As I did state, the ball itself occurs in one week hence. It would be well that you deliver these responses well beforehand as they may have an impact upon proceedings. I ask that you not read them. I cannot enforce this as I must trust you to the task and tis far better the responses get to Her Majesty whilst I pursue the scouts, than not at all – OR – that I must abandon my search to hie me back to court. I ask that you not read the responses as it may well only bring you into further harm. Furthermore, tis not a messenger’s job to read the messages.” “As to the safety of messengers...” He turned to face Berotha. ”Not all messengers are the same. Those that work against the Culverwood are fair game. Be most careful that you are not perceived as such.”
Then to Panzer he turned. ”Tis no game, yet I know that to those of mortal blood the machinations of the Fey can readily be perceived as such. The aid to which you aspire cannot be so readily supplied. Both sides tread carefully. Were the Queen to act more openly that would invite a reciprocal response from the Dark. We do not wish to escalate matters. So if your true powers are largely hidden, that is to the good.”
To Zazu, he nodded. ”I shall indeed do as you ask. My thanks again for aiding me – again. I have placed a new burden upon you. There may well be spies seeking these missives. Be most wary.” He hands Nightingale his satchel. "Be most careful for the bag is warded. In Sylvan you must speak and whilst tapping the flap utter ‘In the Name of the Queen’. Do not forget.”
Naithi: Highlight to display spoiler: { The White Witch? It doesn’t ring any bells immediately, but you conjecture that it may be a pseudonym for an itinerant Druid known to roam the lands hereabouts. If so, that would be Sudera, but Sudera is typically reclusive and spends much of her time in animal form; so it very difficult to find. Equally, there’s a chance it could be a witch; one turned from the Dark. If that is the case it would be a major coup, for Tanglemein or Asetti Ghostclaw would be challenging adversaries….if the White Witch was one of them.}
Sahabiel (EstherLauren) -- AC 23/11/22 -- HP: 65/65 Tuesday July 25th, 2023 6:52:00 AM OOC; Clarifying sidenote on campaign terminology to DM and players: With envoy Waesberos having the role of liaison between the Emerald City and the fey court, it would help to be clear on terminology to know which way he is going or coming from ;) Queen Maab obviously presides over a Court, so let's call that side the Court, but on the side of the Emerald City no Monarch stands above the Council of Elders, so let's call that side the Council rather than also a 'court'? The Emerald Kingdom envoys work for the Council, so when Waesberos worries he might have to 'hie himself back' leaving those letters undelivered, he'd mean back to the Council - not to 'court' as the last update called it. If he hied himself to the Court, he might as well have taken those letters there himself while at it ;)
Sahabiel (EstherLauren) -- AC 23/11/22 -- HP: 65/65 Tuesday July 25th, 2023 7:05:03 AM OOC; Further clarification on my own choice of words - Waesberos is part of the Emissary Corps, while currently acting in the role of envoy for Emerald City. So I used envoy and Emissary semi-interchangeably back there. That is just situational here.
DM: Nick K. [bClarifications/b] Tuesday July 25th, 2023 7:47:22 AM
Those comments work excellently to bring things into correct alignment. thanks for clarifying.
Also,...
They are updating the broadband network locally. I may, at some point, be bereft of internet access. I do not use a cellphone; so if I fail to post one day, you will all know why.
Berotha (Jason W) -- AC: 21/13/18, HP: 83/99, CMD: 29 Tuesday July 25th, 2023 10:29:32 AM
OoC: I have sent DM Nick an email granting edit access to Berotha's sheet.
Berotha nods in understanding when Sahabiel provides explanation. "Ah the Queen is the same Queen Maab. I am not yet familiar with the monarchs of this land and unsure where there are various queens or not. Apologies." When given the charge of delivering the satchel, Berotha shrugs somewhat then affirms "I suppose 'tis like any other dangerous delivery job. I will be careful and I swear on my grandmother's weapon to fulfill mission as best as I am able." She pats the handle of the fourteen-foot long glaive.
Beech (JohnC) AC 19(23)/14/15,HP 51/51 Character Tuesday July 25th, 2023 4:33:57 PM
Beech, "Well, we can stay here forever giving assurances, but that won't get our new job accomplished. So, let's get going where we need to." Beech also makes it obvious not to mention the messages or their delivery to The Queen. He hopes the others pick up that he on purpose to failed to verbalize either the Messages or The Queen.
Sahabiel (EstherLauren) -- AC 23/11/22 -- HP: 65/65 Tuesday July 25th, 2023 4:53:05 PM
Sahabiel discusses with her companions. "This is not what we expected to get caught up in today, but as they say, we have come this far... and even if it means we're going to act as glorified couriers, I suppose we could do worse for chances to learn something of use against the Darkening, than finding ourselves with a reason to present ourselves at the court of the greatest elder power around here that is not the Culverwood itself, and mere days before a ball...? What are yer thoughts? Given a little longer for him to get back on his feet, I am willing to trust handling this grass to the Emissary - so we can expedite our own plans.. do we swing by Dunadori first, or did we between us already bring enough supplies for a few extra days and head straight for the Deep Culverwood?"
Lothlo (WillD) -- AC: 20/15/16, HP: 56/56, CMD: 23 Tuesday July 25th, 2023 7:10:20 PM Let's make sure to put out some warning signs before we go. The last thing we want is to have more unfortunate souls wander in before we can get the grass properly taken care of.
I have some ink and paper if we have a place we can hang a warning where it will be seen. Or we could carve the warning into something if you think we need something sturdier.
Lothlo scans the area for the best place to put up warning signs, especially at the most likely entrances into the grass.
Panzer Braun (David F) AC 28 (T16, FF24) CMD 29 HP 100/100 ) Character Sheet Tuesday July 25th, 2023 9:19:47 PM " I don't travel without having a weeks worth of 'Lost in the Culverwood ' stuff. Thus I am ready to travel." " Emissary Westboros, I wish you well dealing with the grass. Know this though, I'd rather face a score of enemies openly than a handful hiding in the weeds. If I am given the names and locations of the ones I am after, then I will waste no time visiting them and ending their part in this darkening. If the Queen can give me those names then it would be best for all of us she did. That way the violence is on me and she need fear no reprisals."
Nightingale (JonS) HP 64/64 AC 21 CMD: 23 Tuesday July 25th, 2023 9:42:18 PM
Nightingale apppears happy in her thoughts, relating to the trip to see her Queen. She pouts at Panzer's statement though, "Panzer, enemies hiding in weeds are fun to rout; however, I do hope we can learn some of these beings who are threatening the 'Wood. If so, then I'll be right beside ya passing out "judgments" with my weapons and spells."
OOC: How soon till we head for the Deeper, are we resting now? Just wondering if I need to write out what spells Nightingale has prayed for...
Zazu Bridgebuilder (AC24, HP61) and Boyo the bunny (AC19, HP30) (Cayzle) Tuesday July 25th, 2023 9:58:17 PM
"Putting up signs is a great idea, Lothlo! But a good rain will wash away paper. I have some crafting tools we can use to carve signs."
Zazu chuckles at Panzer. "You are very brave, my friend, and generous to offer to be a shield for the Queen's reputation. But i think she is ... powerful enough to be able to handle that kind of stuff on her own, should she wish to. That said, I agree with you."
" 'Oft mortal hands labor where divinity cannot reach,' as the saying goes!"
DM: Nick K. Who knows? Wednesday July 26th, 2023 6:34:54 AM
”I know not the names of the potent creatures that do direct the Darkening. Maybe Queen Maab does. Maybe. Maybe they have still succeeded in shrouding themselves in mystery. Tis all conjecture. I regret that lack the tools – and likely the skill - to aid in the fabrication of signs.” He looked around and seemed to be sniffing the wind, before turning back to them.
”Again, my thanks. Who knows, perhaps this deed will prove as significant as any? We can but play our part and hope tis sufficient. May the gods smile upon your endeavours.” Waesberos then offered to shake the hand (paw_ of each person, not excluding Boyo.
Nightingale Highlight to display spoiler: { You would be wise to have a list of spells ready as trouble can arrive at any moment}
Berotha (Jason W) -- AC: 21/13/18, HP: 83/99, CMD: 29 Wednesday July 26th, 2023 9:48:46 AM
Berotha searches the surrounding woods for large piece of bark to write on. Then she asks one of the smaller-handed, dextrous ones to scratch words into the bark. Meanwhile, she sharpens some small logs into simple posts and uses her with a tough piece of bark in between to blunt the blows as she drives the pointed logs into the ground. When the inscriptions are finished, she cuts her rope into lengths to lash them to the simple posts, cutting notches in the bark and post to help the simple lashings be more secure.
As to the inscription itself, Berotha suggests something simple. "Grass kills. Stay out."
Once the signs are finished, she is ready to leave with the others.
Zazu Bridgebuilder (AC24, HP61) and Boyo the bunny (AC19, HP30) (Cayzle) d20=4 ; d20+17=24 ; Wednesday July 26th, 2023 11:54:23 AM
Zazu uses tools to help Berotha with the signs. Aid Another: 4 on a straight d20 roll, with potential mods +6 int, +2 masterwork tools, +6 if craft traps ranks can apply.
The elf draws on lore known to help complement any directions given by Waesberos.
Know Nature 24
"I'm helping!"
Nightingale (JonS) HP 64/64 AC 21 CMD: 23 Wednesday July 26th, 2023 12:04:09 PM
OOC: Nightingale would have shared her spells prior to leaving ... if anyone wants to suggest she change any then she can before we get into the thick of things
Orisons: (4) She typically uses: Detect Magic, Light, Stabilize, Guidance
1st Lvl: (5) She typically uses: Cause Fear, Divine Favor, Entropic Shield, Pro vs Evil, Sanctuary Domain: Entangle
2nd Lvl: (5) She typically uses: Consecrate, Hold Person, Lesser Restoration, Remove Paralysis Domain: Barkskin
3rd Lvl: (4) She typically uses: Daylight, Magic Circle vs Evil, Searing Light, Summon Monster 3 Domain: Plant Growth
4th Lvl: (3) She typically uses: Holy Smite, Order's Wrath, Summon Monster 4 Domain: Command Plants
5th Lvl: (1) Flame Strike Domain: Wall of Thorns
She can spontaneously cast "Cure" spells
Naithi (JamesD) AC: 19/14/16 HP: 113/114 , CMD = 22 Camalayas AC = 24/18/18 Wednesday July 26th, 2023 1:16:20 PM
Naithi and Camalayas say goodbye and prepare for the trip out. She is excited to see Queen Maab again, now having seen her since she the queen enveloped her in a caccoon and transformed her into a morphling.
Beech (JohnC) AC 19(23)/14/15,HP 51/51 Character Wednesday July 26th, 2023 3:36:28 PM
Beech, shakes his head.... then quietly says, and makes sure that EVERYONE hears him, and UNDERSTANDS his points. "Everyone, I was under the impression from our new friend here, that it was important to keep what our new mission is a secret. So far after being given the satchel, at least two of you have mentioned it at a normal volume, after we were told there were spies and informants to be found everywhere. At this rate, we may as well make a banner and march down the road singing at the top of our voices about what we are doing, that way there will be no mistake by anyone who wants to stop us, at least they won't attack the wrong people. I may not be subtle in a fight, but I am my mother's son and know when to keep things quiet. Yes, I prefer a sledgehammer over a tack hammer at times, but even I know the benefits of stealth, even if I'm not very good at it. As to being ready, I've got almost 2 weeks of rations, and I'm sure we can kill an animal or three, there are a couple of cooks here. And Zazu, I can just use Arcane Mark, one rune at a time to make the sign, It'll last quite some time..."
Lothlo (WillD) -- AC: 20/15/16, HP: 56/56, CMD: 23 Wednesday July 26th, 2023 6:04:40 PM Mind if I add one quick thing to the signs? The universally recognized skull and crossbones to warn that it's poison? Just in case someone thinks they are strong enough to take on any creature hiding in the grass and doesn't realize that no matter how strong their sword and armor, their lungs are still in danger. If no objections, Lothlo will add the poison symbol to the sign.
Sahabiel (EstherLauren) -- AC 23/11/22 -- HP: 65/65 Wednesday July 26th, 2023 6:25:19 PM
Sahabiel recognizes Beech's point that it would be good to make it a habit from the start to not speak aloud about the mission. All the same, she believes that if anyone was already spying on them now, it would be because they must have been already watching the emissary, in which case they would have seen the handover of the satchel in the first place? In any case, since the supply situation is looking good, as soon as everyone is done putting up whatever signage they feel necessary around the grassy area Sahabiel is ready to direct her step towards the Deep Culverwood.
Survival (travel without losing her direction); Taking 10, d20+20 = 30. Increases to 40 as soon as they enter the Deep Culverwood
Panzer Braun (David F) AC 28 (T16, FF24) CMD 29 HP 100/100 ) Character Sheet Wednesday July 26th, 2023 8:42:09 PM
Panzer shakes the Emissaries hand and is ready to go.
DM: Nick K. Be Safe Thursday July 27th, 2023 5:54:15 AM
Sahabiel ..Makes ready and determines precisely in which direction they must travel. Panzer .Is ready to depart. Zazu .Aids Berotha significantly. Beech Oftens sound advice and counsels prudence. Lothlo Adds to the signs. Naithi .Bids farewell, eager to meet the Queen anew. Nightingale .Quietly revises her spells. Berotha .Constructs and erects warning signs.
Waesberos nodded in satisfaction. He ran a hand through his hair as he looked at each member of the group in turn and then actually smiled. ”Be safe.” With those two short words he turned and walked away. Whilst not exactly opposite to the direction that Sahabiel had deemed the one that they must take, his route was clearly inimical to the task of taking missives to Queen Maab.
The signs were almost things of art. They sat comfortably in the landscape as if they belonged there, yet the markings were clear for all to ‘read’. The added symbol ensured that even the ability to read wasn’t a necessity to comprehension of the presence of danger.
Even as the group prepared their senses informed them of another salient fact: it was going to rain
(NB: Those with the scent ability will smell it on the air. Know Nature DC: 25 to determine when the rain will arrive. DC:30 reveals the likely extent of that rain.)
Any further debate could be undertaken as the group made progress towards their new destination. They all knew each other well enough that dallying simply wasn’t an issue. The land was broken: stretches of grassland interspersed with copses and woodland. There would, they knew, be far more trees where they were heading.
(Any precautions taken? Vs potential spies, the weather, to speed travel?)
Berotha (Jason W) -- AC: 21/13/18, HP: 83/99, CMD: 29 Thursday July 27th, 2023 10:30:32 AM
OoC: I think arcane mark only makes one's personal mark of up to six characters. It would be an interesting logical puzzle to construct a sign message out of those.
When Berotha hears Nightingale discussing all of the magic at her disposal, she laughs, impressed. "Very good! I have only a few simple magics at my disposal. I suppose those sound good but I wouldn't be the one to know."
Once satisfied with the signs, she nods and is ready to leave. With her sharp sense but only modest stealth, she proposes she take the rearguard and keep an eye out for trouble.
Nightingale (JonS) HP 64/64 AC 21 CMD: 23 Thursday July 27th, 2023 2:28:57 PM
Nightingale will stop what she's sharing and look around. After hearing what Beech has said, Nightingale's aware of how loud and how much has been said and shared. She'll look to her friends, "If anyone other than ourselves were listening they know our primary plan, but I can see and support the need for secrecy as much as possible."
Panzer Braun (David F) AC 28 (T16, FF24) CMD 29 HP 100/100 ) Character Sheet Thursday July 27th, 2023 8:35:43 PM
ASfter getting a direction from Sahabiel, Panzer pulls out his adamantine Kukri's and starts cutting a path. Subtlety wasn't his plan, nor was stealth. He planned on making good time and getting to where they were going quickly. He knew that one of the folks that knew where he was going would offer guidance when he was off the path so he concentrated merely on clearing the way.
Beech (JohnC) AC 19(23)/14/15,HP 51/51 Character Thursday July 27th, 2023 8:37:30 PM
Beech falls into line, towards the back, with Berotha there, he even feels safer than normal.....
Lothlo (WillD) -- AC: 20/15/16, HP: 56/56, CMD: 23 Thursday July 27th, 2023 9:01:28 PM
Lothlo looks around the area and notices the sky. I wouldn't worry too much about the plans having been heard right now. Looks like a storm is coming, and we are already in the middle of nowhere. If someone was here, they probably already know more than we do. Still, we shouldn't hang around too long. These woods are treacherous enough when the weather is perfect. Can anyone tell how bad the storm is going to be? Are we best off pressing on, or heading back to town while it passes?
Zazu Bridgebuilder (AC24, HP61) and Boyo the bunny (AC19, HP30) (Cayzle) d20+21=22 ; d20+14=25 ; Thursday July 27th, 2023 9:39:13 PM
As we move, Zazu and Boyo use Stealth whenever the terrain or weather offers concealment.
Stealth Zazu is +21 ... 22 Boyo is +14 ... 25
Sahabiel (EstherLauren) -- AC 23/11/22 -- HP: 65/65 d20+11=19 ; Friday July 28th, 2023 4:39:56 AM
Sahabiel takes note that the sky looks like there is rain on its way, but she is an outdoorswoman and not too worried yet, expecting to weather it the usual way -- her cloak having a hood to put up as needed is not just a fashion statement. She is more worried about visibility, but nothing can be done about that now.
And speaking of visibility.. their own is not something they can do much about for any length of time. With the party composition they have, they are never going to look quite like a normal group of travelers, but on the up side, they don't look like normal couriers either, so it is unlikely any of those spies the emissary was concerned about are going to just guess their mission. Maybe a small fib.. "Just to have a story in case we run across anyone that asks prying questions - we are going into the Culverwood to capture a wild assassin vine for the apothecary guild in Karri, who need its sap for medicinal purposes.", she whispers to her friends.
As the party often travels, she will take point together with Panzer, and use her skill at finding safe paths through the terrain to make sure Panzer does a minimum of cutting.
Nightingale (JonS) HP 64/64 AC 21 CMD: 23 Friday July 28th, 2023 6:07:57 AM
Nightingale quietly claps her hands, "You're very devious cousin. Actually that does sound like something an armed group would be doing out here."
DM: Nick K. It's damp Friday July 28th, 2023 6:16:33 AM
Sahabiel .Aids in finding small trails and paths to reduce the need for cutting. Panzer Clears the way with purpose.. Zazu .And Boyo strive for stealth wherever possible. Beech .Follows on near the back Lothlo .Queries the potential severity of the storm Naithi ..Follows on. Nightingale ..Agrees with the benefits of secrecy Berotha .Takes up the rearguard and is wary.
The strange group presses on with purpose. With Sahabiel’s keen eyes picking the way, progress is swifter than actually slashing a path – and a lot less tiring. Whilst they do indeed make good progress, by later afternoon the rain arrives and by dusk it is a deluge. Even the trees offer scant protection. It seems that the rain conspires to flow into small streams that find heads and backs wherever they might be. That the trees cut much of the wind is a mixed blessing as the torrential rain teems down with dispiriting intensity, deadening all other sounds in it’s incessant susurrant patter.
Moving on is an option, but perhaps not the best given how wet everyone and everything will get.
(OOC: Precautions/Actions/Plans?)
Zazu Bridgebuilder (AC24, HP61) and Boyo the bunny (AC19, HP30) (Cayzle) Friday July 28th, 2023 8:05:04 AM
Zazu likes Sahabiel's idea for a cover story. "Very tricky," says the trickster.
Seeing the storm worsen, Zazu raises a hand. "Oh! Oh, I got this!" If everyone agrees to hunker down, Zazu will cast a tiny hut in which we can shelter.
Naithi (JamesD) AC: 19/14/16 HP: 113/114 , CMD = 22 Camalayas AC = 24/18/18 Friday July 28th, 2023 1:57:03 PM
Naithi agree to shelter in the Tiny Hut until the storm passes .
ooc: sorry for the missed post. We have a sick kid at home, one who's summer program was concerned unexpectedly, and I birthday party we are preparing for this weekend
Sahabiel (EstherLauren) -- AC 23/11/22 -- HP: 65/65 Friday July 28th, 2023 3:20:13 PM "To carry on in a downpour would be folly. The ground will soon be treacherous, and our senses hindered.", Sahabiel opines. "Let's go with Zazu's plan here, and prepare for the worst case that it may be our camp going into the night as well."
If the others agree to shelter in a Tiny Hut, Sahabiel will confer with Zazu how long the effect will last, and if it will not last until next morning, she will get to work setting up a modest shelter within the little magical dome, so that they will still have something for the rest of the night until comes time to break camp.
Lothlo (WillD) -- AC: 20/15/16, HP: 56/56, CMD: 23 Friday July 28th, 2023 8:23:05 PM
Lothlo looks at the rain coming down all around them. Tiny Hut sounds like a good idea. I'd rather take a little longer to get there than take the unnecessary risk of traveling in this weather, especially in the Culverwoods.
Panzer Braun (David F) AC 28 (T16, FF24) CMD 29 HP 100/100 ) Character Sheet Friday July 28th, 2023 8:29:54 PM
Panzer is an adventurer and isn't bothered by the rain, but warm dry shelter sounds better than slogging on in the rain and dark conditions made by the rain. He will shelter in the hut as well.
Beech (JohnC) AC 19(23)/14/15,HP 51/51 Character Friday July 28th, 2023 10:08:21 PM
Beech, lets the others decide, his bow might be mostly useless, but he has spells to cover things like that. If they decide to set watches, Beech requests first. He'll do a walk around and cast a silent image covering the tiny hut with an illusion of open ground.
Zazu Bridgebuilder (AC24, HP61) and Boyo the bunny (AC19, HP30) (Cayzle) Friday July 28th, 2023 11:01:55 PM
"My hut will last for 12 hours!"
Nightingale (JonS) HP 64/64 AC 21 CMD: 23 Saturday July 29th, 2023 2:41:51 AM
Nightingale can't recall whether she has spent the night in Zazu's magical creation, and is looking forward to see what arcane magics can create
DM: Nick K. Damper still Monday July 31st, 2023 5:38:44 AM
Monday 31 July 2023
Sahabiel .Makes preparations in case the Tiny Hut spell expires before the storm. Panzer Sees the benefits of sheltering from the storm. Zazu .Agrees with Sahabiel’s cover story and offers protection from the storm. He confirms hat the hut will persist for 12 hours. Beech .Offers first watch and additional precautions. Lothlo .Prefers the notion of sheltering. Naithi .Agrees to Zazu proposal of shelter. Nightingale .Looks forward to seeing the inside of the wondrous Tiny Hut.. Berotha .Quietly watches on.
As the rain ceaselessly falls and even seems to grow in intensity, Zazu calls forth the magical Tiny Hut. Yet it wasn’t so much a hut as a piece of land both warded from above and below. The unmoving, opaque sphere of force was centred on Zazu. Those beyond its 20’ radius saw only a dull, barely glowing amber sphere. Yet those within its protection saw nothing of this. What they did most certainly note was the pleasant, ambient temperature and the complete lack of rain. That rain still hammered down to roll off the domed protection. It was almost like looking through a waterfall.
Beech’s additional precautions even eliminated the sight of the dome itself; so it seemed that the area they had selected to stop was just another very wet, open space; one that sat at the edge of a large copse. The sky grew darker still as Beech finalised his preparations. Before he turned his steps back to shelter, he stopped.
Beech Highlight to display spoiler: {1: Silent Image only persists as long as you concentrate. 2. A faint voice, high pitched and seemingly from a small throat hails you. ”Room for a little one?” The waterphobic liontaur is getting VERY wet. Water spoke is close, but as yet unseen.}
Panzer Braun (David F) AC 28 (T16, FF24) CMD 29 HP 100/100 ) Character Sheet Monday July 31st, 2023 5:00:56 PM " What's Beech doing out there?" "If I go check on him I can get back in right Zazu?" Once he secures a yes he heads out to look for the liontaur. He was already wet, was there a stage more wet than that? Beech was resourceful but not entirely tough. If something ( like an assassin vine) had chosen him since he was alone then he might be in trouble. It wouldn't be the first time a random vine managed to nearly upset their little applecart.
Sahabiel (EstherLauren) -- AC 23/11/22 -- HP: 65/65 d20+20=22 ; Monday July 31st, 2023 5:13:55 PM
Looking at the angle the rain is coming in under, Sahabiel tries to make an estimate of how long this rain is going to last... difficult as that may be with all the water splashing against the top of the dome.
Survival (predict weather) d20+20 = 22
Naithi (JamesD) AC: 19/14/16 HP: 113/114 , CMD = 22 Camalayas AC = 24/18/18 d20+17=19 ; d12+17=25 ; Monday July 31st, 2023 7:28:13 PM
Naithi attempts to help Sahabiel predict the weather (aid another= 19) and settles in until it is just watch.
ooc: Can we see and hear Beech? If so, Naithi can Camalayas will attempt to help if asked or they hear the voice.
Perception to hear Beech or the voice= 15 Aid another roll predict the weather= 19
Naithi (JamesD) AC: 19/14/16 HP: 113/114 , CMD = 22 Camalayas AC = 24/18/18 d20+17=19 ; d12+17=25 ; Monday July 31st, 2023 7:28:14 PM
Naithi attempts to help Sahabiel predict the weather (aid another= 19) and settles in until it is just watch.
ooc: Can we see and hear Beech? If so, Naithi can Camalayas will attempt to help if asked or they hear the voice.
Perception to hear Beech or the voice= 15 Aid another roll predict the weather= 19
Beech (JohnC) AC 19(23)/14/15,HP 51/51 Character Monday July 31st, 2023 7:37:46 PM
Beech, carefully continues to finish his spell. concentrating every few moments as needed to keep it running. "Sorry, whoever you are, I need to keep somewhat focused to keep the Illusion running. Now, I expect there is enough room, but I alone don't make the decisions. So, maybe show a bit of trust in me and show yourself and then we'll go see if the others are amenable to sharing the cover from the rain."
Beech, waits a few more moments to see if the voice decides to show itself. By this time, Panzer makes his way out to look for him. "He's more skittish, let me talk to him, but reveling oneself can only help." Beech says softly, before calling to Panzer, "I'm coming in now"
Once under cover, "Can someone dry me off, I gotta keep my concentration on the extra cover I'm providing."
Beech will maintain the spell for the time before he rests.
Lothlo (WillD) -- AC: 20/15/16, HP: 56/56, CMD: 23 d20+15=28 ; Monday July 31st, 2023 8:54:44 PM
*assuming Lothlo can hear what Beech said* Is someone out there with you? Is everything ok? Lothlo scans the area for signs that there are other people around.
Perception = 28
Zazu Bridgebuilder (AC24, HP61) and Boyo the bunny (AC19, HP30) (Cayzle) Monday July 31st, 2023 9:06:28 PM
Zazu explains that anybody can go in and out at will. "Except me!"
Berotha (Jason W) -- AC: 21/13/18, HP: 83/99, CMD: 29 Monday July 31st, 2023 9:12:27 PM
Berotha laughs as Zazu conjures the perfect little shelter. "Well that's much faster than what I would have rigged!" She is impressed that it can hold her, if she scrunches a little bit.
When Beech comes in, Berotha also wonders if there was anyone out there.
Nightingale (JonS) HP 64/64 AC 21 CMD: 23 Monday July 31st, 2023 10:39:18 PM
Nightingale is amazed at what Zazu and Beech have accomplished. She'll go in and see about making some hot tea ... if that's possible
DM: Nick K. Panzer's Degrees of Wetness Tuesday August 1st, 2023 4:50:28 AM
Sahabiel Tries to assess the duration of the storm Panzer Goes to find Beech. Zazu Provides answers about his Tiny Hut. Beech Appears to talk to himself and enters the dome asking to be dried. Lothlo Questions Beech – is here someone else out there? Naithi .Helps Sahabiel (Did she cheat? I made no mention of voices?) Nightingale Looks to make some tea. Berotha Easily fits inside the 40’ diameter dome (It’s 20’ tall at it’s peak.) and wonders what kept Beech.
The rain teemed down ceaselessly. Sahabiel, in discussion with Naithi, concludes that given the easing of the wind, this rain will be slow to pass. What was even more apparent was that the ground was wet – very wet. Nightingale’s initial thoughts to make a shelter turned to the issue of the ground. Surely it either needed to be dried or covered? Whilst it was a great relief not to be soaked to the skin. Panzer concluded that you could indeed get wetter: there was damp, wet, soaked and then most likely drowned.
As Beech made his sodden way into the shelter of the dome it was clear to all that he was in conversation; one that was not with himself. However, of the third party, there was no sign.
Until…
”Well, that’s much better!” A little voice exclaimed. Immediately, a hovering Fey appeared behind Beech’s back – about two feet behind his mane and an equal distance above his rear legs. The fairy-like beautiful, young female did not have butterfly wings. Hers were more like those to be found on a dragonfly. She held a bow, but there was no string attached. Her quiver of arrows was shut against the rain. Panzer decided that ‘soaked’ was her present condition.
The small – barely 2’ tall - Fey looked around at the bemused or startled faces and smiled sheepishly. She then performed a hovering curtsy, holding her short, wet, green skirt to either side. ”My thanks for your hospitality. I’m Fornilliaragh, but everyone just calls me Thorn. I don’t supposed you’ve seen a stupid, little Brownie in a daft, tricorn hat carrying an old cutlass and a bottle of mistletoe wine?”
Panzer Braun (David F) AC 28 (T16, FF24) CMD 29 HP 100/100 ) Character Sheet Tuesday August 1st, 2023 9:01:44 AM " Um, no. I would remember that." "How did you get caught out in this downpour?" Panzer asks in a friendly manner. One small fey acing friendly didn't seem to be a cause for alarm. Of course one house cat could probably coup de grace an entire adventuring party with it's innocent looks and all but, who's counting? Panzer pulls out his tools and digs a hole in the middle of the domed clearing. he urges the others to try and keep the water they shed around the hole. Gravity should pull and standing water to the lowest point. It won't 'dry' the place out but might manage the standing water.
OOC: Done my good sir!
Nightingale (JonS) HP 64/64 AC 21 CMD: 23 Tuesday August 1st, 2023 2:32:02 PM
Nightingale gives Thorn a small bow in return. "A Brownie you say. Nay, we've seen naught but trees, plants, and rain, enough to ruin my hair for days.
Sahabiel (EstherLauren) -- AC 23/11/22 -- HP: 65/65 d20+11=24 ; Tuesday August 1st, 2023 4:12:08 PM ooc: I am not certain what is implied about the ground needing to be covered? I have always understood this spell as creating a sphere, with the lower half passing through the ground, and that we should not be at risk of water running under here from the sides?
"This is not going to let up for a while.. better to assume that we will spend the night here.", Sahabiel says with a nod to Naithi.
She looks up as an unexpectedly visiting little fey creature announces her presence, and quickly tries to listen to what is going on..
Knowledge (Nature) check to identify the nature of their visitor; d20+11 = 24
Beech (JohnC) AC 19(23)/14/15,HP 51/51 Character Tuesday August 1st, 2023 4:53:16 PM "Well, as long as we aren't too loud, we should be pretty much unseen, at least until I go to sleep.As to being outside, I needed to see the surrounding area to set my Illusion to cover the sphere Zazu created. Only trouble is I have to concentrate to keep it active." Beech starts wringing out his mane and his clothing, into Panzer's dirt pit. He seems to be taking his time. "Nice to meet you Thorn, and no, haven't seen a brownie lately, have seen some shadowy crows though. As well as some grass that likes to shock those who pass through it."
Berotha (Jason W) -- AC: 21/13/18, HP: 83/99, CMD: 29 Tuesday August 1st, 2023 7:53:12 PM
Berotha immediately grows wary when the fey appears and bows very respectfully. Her past with such creatures taught her that they could be very dangerous, even more so when wronged or offended. "Greetings. I have not seen your friend but would be willing to assist. Are they missing?"
Zazu Bridgebuilder (AC24, HP61) and Boyo the bunny (AC19, HP30) (Cayzle) Tuesday August 1st, 2023 11:07:45 PM
Zazu -- who is not much taller than the fairy when sitting on Boyo like that -- Welcomes the fey and suggests that her friend is likely headed to the Firefly Ball. "Just like we are too!"
DM: Nick K. Under the Dome Wednesday August 2nd, 2023 5:10:28 AM
Sahabiel Confirms that the weather has set in for a while. Panzer Sets to remedying the issue of the damp floor, at least in part. He is friendly to the newcomer. Zazu Offers a suggestion as to where the Brownie may have gone. Beech .Starts to dry himself whilst conversing with the Fey creature. Lothlo Stays dry whilst watching Naithi .Stays dry whilst watching Nightingale Politely returns the greeting. Berotha Very politely responds to the enquiry.
(OOC: I permit both Prestidigitation and Mending to be used to dry goods. Obviously, being cantrips, they can only have this effect on a small area at a time. Thus a Mending could dry someone’s pants and another use might dry the shirt and yet another their hair. Hope that helps. Mending removes any adverse state; so can clean items – removing dirt.)
”That’s what I’m afraid of.” Thorn responded with a sigh. She then spun around shaking all the water from her wings; a flick of the wrist and she was dry.
She then answered Berotha. ”Oh absolutely, ‘Captain’ Puddlefoot is definitely missing. Again. And the last place we need him turning up, is at the ball. I’ve got to catch that dunderhead. Again. Still, even he won’t be going very far in this. Do I mind if I take shelter here until it passes? I can pay my way – by drying stuff if you want? I mean, you all seem decent types; not the sort that goes around plucking a sprite’s wings off and stuff like that.” She answered with a disarming, yet mischievous grin.
(OOC: My understanding is that Yes, the dome protects in a sphere and no water will get in. However, it does not remove the existing water and it had rained before the dome was in place. Hence the ground is very wet.)
Berotha (Jason W) -- AC: 21/13/18, HP: 83/99, CMD: 29 Wednesday August 2nd, 2023 9:12:55 AM
Berotha looks at the others to ensure they are alright and nods "Yes you may stay with us. We will keep watches throughout the night to ensure the safety of all." She didn't like the idea of sleeping with a fey in the area able to slit her throat so having her or one of her allies on watch at all times was very important to her. "Certainly we would not disrespect the fey, no matter how small, with such atrocious behavior."
Panzer Braun (David F) AC 28 (T16, FF24) CMD 29 HP 100/100 ) Character Sheet Wednesday August 2nd, 2023 12:54:35 PM
Panzer winces. " That sounds pretty awful. People do that to sprites?" Panzer begins shedding his armor in an effort to get his kit dry Unless there is a handy sappling under the dome he has nowhere 'dry' to stack it but he does his best. " As to your offer, I would be most appreciative of any help drying off. I don't pack towels or anything, generally I just kinda suffer if I get wet. I think it would be fine if you stayed. None of us are out to hurt each other, right?" OoC Could we get a better description of "Thorn"? we have interacted for maybe a minute but I only know she has a quiver, dragonfly wings and green clothes. Could we get hair color, eye color, demeanor, you know stuff like that? Thanks
Nightingale (JonS) HP 64/64 AC 21 CMD: 23 Wednesday August 2nd, 2023 1:44:57 PM
Nightingale will help Panzer out of his armor, and then graciously accept the offered drying of clothes, and hair if possible.
Naithi (JamesD) AC: 19/14/16 HP: 113/114 , CMD = 22 Camalayas AC = 24/18/18 Wednesday August 2nd, 2023 2:20:36 PM
Naithi's eyes flicker with amusement as she takes in the sight of Thorn, the hovering Fey. With a playful grin, she leans forward on Camalayas' back and addresses Thorn in a melodious voice, Well now, darling Thorn, I must say you've certainly brightened our gloomy shelter! As for your silly Brownie friend, we haven't had the pleasure of meeting him yet. But fret not! We'll keep an eye out for his daft tricorn hat and amusing antics.
Naithi admires the Thorn's beautiful wings and the way they accentuate her feminity. As strange as it sounds, she already has a mental imprint is what her own wings will looks like. Although strong, they appear as delicate, translucent wings resembling those of a butterfly or dragonfly. Intricate and iridescent, with shimmering patterns that reflect the light. The wing membranes containing vibrant hues, ranging from soft pastels to vibrant jewel tones. They are lightweight yet durable, allowing the demi-fey to fly gracefully through the air and maneuver smoothly in battle.
Beech (JohnC) AC 19(23)/14/15,HP 51/51 Character Wednesday August 2nd, 2023 3:17:57 PM "Well Thorn, we only pluck off the wings of those who do something bad to us first. You asked permission, I gave you that permission tentatively, until the group could agree. We have all agreed, so you have no worries. Now, I could dry it off in here an area at a time, but I can't keep the image up as well... And keeping it I think is much more important for the next 3 hours or so. If things are still soaked at that time, I'll summon a sphere of fire, and as long as we can make room, I'll use it to dry off an area at a time, before I crash for the night." Beech, continues his concentration on the Illusion outside.
Sahabiel (EstherLauren) -- AC 23/11/22 -- HP: 65/65 Wednesday August 2nd, 2023 8:34:34 PM
Now that she is no longer distracted by rain or taking stock of their situation, Sahabiel takes note of Panzer trying to deal with his water-soaked gear. "I can help with drying those too, if needed? Sorry about not noticing before, I had been preoccupied", she explains herself to her companion.
Turning next to the pixie floating around Beech, she speaks the traditional Sylvan greeting.
<"I am sorry that your search for your friend caused you to get caught out in this weather">, she says to Thorn, sticking to Sylvan for their conversation as her pronunciation in that language is in fact less thickly accented than her Common, and also because she consider it just polite to use what could be considered the host language of the Culverwood, <"You have no clue where he might be, other than that it might be around here, and that you hope it won't be anywhere near the Ball?">
She pauses to share a look of concern with the fey.
<"...he is a Brownie. And set his mind to it that he's off on an adventure by the sound of how you describe him? If there is a place you'd rather he wouldn't, odds are that is going to be almost exactly where he is going to turn up, isn't it...? Are you worried he might get himself in trouble there?">
(ooc: Now that DM has ruled we can dry things using Mending, Sahabiel can help out as she has that simple orison studied with today's prayers - but as much as I'd love to do it with only a few words sung in Sylvan and a snap of my fingers, Mending takes 10 minutes per casting so she can't do it for too many items - and probably won't get a chance to because anyone with Prestidigitation can dry six-hundred items in the time she takes for just one.)
Lothlo (WillD) -- AC: 20/15/16, HP: 56/56, CMD: 23 Wednesday August 2nd, 2023 8:51:50 PM
Lothlo realizes that he let himself get distracted by the cold and continues talking to their guest. Do you think ‘Captain’ Puddlefoot is heading to the ball? Is he just wanting to be part of the festivities, or do you think he is wanting to cause trouble.
ooc: I did write out a post yesterday, I have no idea what happened. Sorry about that
Zazu Bridgebuilder (AC24, HP61) and Boyo the bunny (AC19, HP30) (Cayzle) Thursday August 3rd, 2023 12:09:14 AM
Zazu thinks it is getting a bit crowded.
"If anyone wants to climb up into a Rope Trick, I can fit people in there too!"
Zazu also helps dry off everybody with prestidigitation cantrips.
DM: Nick K. Don't Tell Me Thursday August 3rd, 2023 4:40:40 AM
Sahabiel Greets Thorn in Sylvan and offers to help with the drying. Panzer Accepts the offer of drying and gets out of wet armour. Zazu Offers that perhaps Rope Trick would give more space and to aid in drying others. Beech. Confirms that Torn is welcome and addresses the issue of drying Lothlo Queries what the Brownie might do. Naithi Delights in Thorn’s presence and admires her wings. Nightingale Aids Panzer and also the offer of drying. Berotha Agrees to admit Thorm, but remains distrustful.
Within the 40 circle there seems to be ample room for all. Certainly the little fey creature took up barely any space at all. As to the Fey, she did indeed have wings: four of them, much like a dragonfly’s. They hummed faintly as she hovered in the air. Thorn looked young. Were she human, she’d be deemed to in her late teens. She was also undeniably beautiful, as only the Fey could be. Her rich auburn hair almost shone now that it was dried. Around her torso was a green corset of fine leather, or perhaps some plant matter that resembled it. It plunged at her back so as not to restrict her wings. Her flesh was the colour of dark honey. Her skirt was short and had a ragged edge that seemed deliberate for it cut in a manner that exuded style. Simple brown boots rose up to her knees and whilst simple in design were embossed with a design of interwoven flora. Tight fitting fingerless gloves that cinched like bracers covered her arms up to the elbows. Around her throat sat a sparkling collar of daisies, that couldn’t possibly be real….could they?
”You are all very kind and for that I shan’t turn you into squirrels.” She replied playfully before darting around haphazardly drying things, people and hair wherever she went.
”As to Puddlefoot...he’s more of an embarrassment than anything else. I really wanted to find him before something ate him, but why anything would want to eat something that tastes as nasty as him, I simply do not know. So, who are you seeking out in such weather? Oh no! Wait! Don’t tell me! It’s gold, isn’t it? Big folk are always interested in gold.” She then shot over to Naithi and Cal. ”But we’re far too clever for all that nonsense, aren’t we?” She giggled.
Panzer Braun (David F) AC 28 (T16, FF24) CMD 29 HP 100/100 ) Character Sheet Thursday August 3rd, 2023 10:27:13 AM " Aye, bigger things always want to eat the smaller folk. But aren't Brownies plucky and kinda able to take care of themselves in a scuffle?. That's the impression I had of them anyways."
Berotha (Jason W) -- AC: 21/13/18, HP: 83/99, CMD: 29 Thursday August 3rd, 2023 1:54:30 PM
Berotha chuckles and laughs in response to Thorn "I don't mind a little extra gold no. Last bit I got helped take good care of this beauty." She reaches over her shoulder and pats her grandmother's glaive without drawing it. "What's so embarrassing about this Puddlefoot fellow? Oh and thank you for the drying." Standing over nine feet tall, there was plenty of Berotha to dry.
Nightingale (JonS) HP 64/64 AC 21 CMD: 23 Thursday August 3rd, 2023 3:04:21 PM
Nightingale thanks Thorn for the drying, then examines her outfit, "Who made your outfit, they're very good at their craft."
Beech (JohnC) AC 19(23)/14/15,HP 51/51 Character Thursday August 3rd, 2023 6:21:36 PM
Beech says thanks for the drying, and when it's time to sleep, he stops the concentrating and if the ground isn't dry, he summon a burning sphere and dry of the ground or use prestidigitation if it'll dry off the grass...
Lothlo (WillD) -- AC: 20/15/16, HP: 56/56, CMD: 23 Thursday August 3rd, 2023 7:17:23 PM
Beriothian enjoys being dry and warm once again and thanks their new fey friend. In answer to your question, as much as I wish we had a better reason for being out in such nasty weather, I think the sad truth is that all of us sorely misjudged just how bad this weather was going to be.
Sahabiel (EstherLauren) -- AC 23/11/22 -- HP: 65/65 Thursday August 3rd, 2023 8:53:13 PM (ooc: I will post tomorrow, but I can't seem to find any result from that KS check I rolled Tuesday?)
Zazu Bridgebuilder (AC24, HP61) and Boyo the bunny (AC19, HP30) (Cayzle) Friday August 4th, 2023 1:21:38 AM
Zazu agrees with Lothlo. "We were caught unawares" ... and says "you're welcome" to everybody who says thanks.
DM: Nick K. I can help Friday August 4th, 2023 5:32:51 AM
Sahabiel Seeks to recognise what manner of Fey they are dealing with. Panzer Converses with Thorn Zazu Acknowledges the thanks for a;; that has been done. Beech. Politely thanks Thorn before ensuring that the ground is dry. Lothlo Thanks Thorn and sates that they misjudged the weather. Naithi Sits quietly in the dry. Nightingale Thanks Thorn and compliments her outfit. Berotha Thanks Thorn for the drying and converses.
(OOC: Apologies, I completely overlooked the Know, Nature check. It was forgotten in my haste to post. Please feel free to prod me if I miss anything.)
“Oh this? This is something Sona made. I couldn't possibly manage anything like this.” Thorn told Nightingale. She then changed topics to address the others. ”There’s no gold though; not here. Personally, I don’t have much use for the stuff – far too heavy.” Thorn then darted around before hovering in front of Beech. ”You don’t have to concentrate. I can conceal your magic dome for you – if you want. It will last until its no longer needed. It’s such a pain having to focus to maintain illusions, isn’t it?”
It was then that Sahabiel realised what manner of creature they had invited into their company. Sahabiel only:Highlight to display spoiler: {A pixie. And likely one more skilled than average }
Panzer Braun (David F) AC 28 (T16, FF24) CMD 29 HP 100/100 ) Character Sheet Friday August 4th, 2023 7:41:15 PM
Panzer thanks Thorn and Zazu and everyone else for the drying and eats some food and gets some rest until it is his turn for watch.
Lothlo (WillD) -- AC: 20/15/16, HP: 56/56, CMD: 23 Friday August 4th, 2023 9:07:08 PM I've always wondered whether it was foolish or brilliant for humans to decide to use gold as money. It may have a pretty shine, but you are right that it's way too heavy, and really is pretty useless other than looking pretty. But better to gave the greedy fight over shiny lumps of metal than hoarding something useful like food, so perhaps it was a wise move..
Zazu Bridgebuilder (AC24, HP61) and Boyo the bunny (AC19, HP30) (Cayzle) Friday August 4th, 2023 9:54:13 PM
"I'm getting sleepy," says Zazu. The young elf snuggles on Boyo and takes a nap. "Wake me up if anything interesting happens, please."
Beech (JohnC) AC 19(23)/14/15,HP 51/51 Character Saturday August 5th, 2023 4:05:36 PM "Appreciate that Thorn, I only have a little skill in the use of Illusions, more of my spells are of the destructive kind.
Oh, and Lothlo, I believe there was a city on the Southern Continent that used something other than coins, but I believe the Heroes that were living there broke the machine that produced them. Mom said I was mass chaos for a while."
Sahabiel (EstherLauren) -- AC 23/11/22 -- HP: 65/65 Saturday August 5th, 2023 6:34:33 PM "Well now, it is good to be out of the rain, so let's all observe the good rules of hospitality as we share this shelter", Sahabiel says. While she is not distrustful of the fey, she finds it does help to be clear about which courtesies and basic rules should apply in any dealings with them.
Taking a small pot out of her pack, she sets it to collect rainwater just outside the shelter, where she can keep an eye on it. Once it is full, she will recite the prayer for purifying food and drink over the water so that she can use it for cooking. "I am going to get a broth started to make us all a bowl of frumenty later. we might as well eat something while we are stuck here, right?"
Lothlo (WillD) -- AC: 20/15/16, HP: 56/56, CMD: 23 Saturday August 5th, 2023 8:37:44 PM
ooc: Naithi is traveling and will post later tonight
Nightingale (JonS) HP 64/64 AC 21 CMD: 23 Monday August 7th, 2023 2:21:12 AM
Nightingale will wander over and ask Sahabiel, "What help do you need with brunch, linner, dinner, whatever meal this would count as..."
DM: Nick K. A new Day Monday August 7th, 2023 1:12:01 PM
Sahabiel Establishes rules of etiquette and commences to make some dinner. Panzer Thanks all for their consideration in drying etc. Zazu Elects to get some rest. Beech. Thanks Thorn for her illusion and recounts a tale of some odd machine to the South. Lothlo Quietly takes it all in. Naithi Quietly takes it all in. Nightingale Offers to help Sahabiel Berotha Quietly takes it all in.
Time passes, but the storm does not; at least not for a good while. In fact it worsens to hammer away at the protective dome. It seems that streams of water rather than rivulets pour from it. Beyond its protective compass you see that the ground is now awash. It’s very evident that the going shall be either unpleasant, tricky or both.
Sahabiel and Nightingale concoct a hearty broth. Thorn too partakes of this repast and compliments the chef’s before delightedly darting around changing the colour of random objects, be it a weapon’s tip, a rabbit’s tail or a boot (Just the one; where would be the fun in having two the same?)
(OOC: Anyone can decide if it is they that are affected or otherwise. Just a small role-playing opportunity.)
It was late and dark when the rain ceased. A gentle wind coerced the reluctant clouds to slowly move along now that their work was done. Unsurprisingly nothing had disturbed the group’s rest. Certainly Thorn had no compunction about sleeping. As soon as she did, she vanished from sight. Come the morning, there was no sign of the sprite. However, she appeared to have taken nothing, nor left anything other than odd coloured boots. Beyond the dome the ground was extremely wet. The trees still dripped heavy droplets. The lower foliage hung heavy, replete with moisture, just waiting for someone to pass along that they might discharge some of their heavy burden. In contrast, the fine cobwebs that were strewn like a myriad fine nets through the grasses, ferns and brambles glittered, displaying the tiny silvery jewels of water that clung to them and sparkled in the burgeoning light.
DM: Nick K. A new Day Monday August 7th, 2023 1:12:48 PM
(OOC: Apologies, life got in the way and I forgot! hence the late post.)
Lothlo (WillD) -- AC: 20/15/16, HP: 56/56, CMD: 23 Monday August 7th, 2023 4:39:36 PM
ooc: from your update it sounds like you didn't see that I had made a post on Friday. No problem if it wasn't part of the update, just want to make sure you didn't think I missed a day
Lothlo (WillD) -- AC: 20/15/16, HP: 56/56, CMD: 23 Monday August 7th, 2023 4:43:37 PM
Lothlo wakes up and notices that a few of his arrows have been changed to a green color that matches the skirt Thorn was wearing. Looking around, the archer notices that their new friend is nowhere to be seen. Thorn, are you still hanging around here somewhere? You disappeared when you fell asleep, so I'm not sure if you left already, or are just asleep.
Lohtlo starts to prepare a pot of coffee as the others slowly start to wake up.
Sahabiel (EstherLauren) -- AC 23/11/22 -- HP: 65/65 Monday August 7th, 2023 6:32:57 PM "Wood's grace that the rains did not last longer than our shelter", Sahabiel remarks in the morning, "Did Thorn leave already? We should have asked how to reach her if we run into her Brownie friend later. It would be just our luck to come across him in our travels."
Beech (JohnC) AC 19(23)/14/15,HP 51/51 Character Monday August 7th, 2023 6:54:08 PM
Beech, stretches. "Gonna be a long day, if she's around or not. and we're gonna get soaked too, it looks like." He'll off his cooking, but it appears others are taking that over....
Zazu Bridgebuilder (AC24, HP61) and Boyo the bunny (AC19, HP30) (Cayzle) d20+16=25 ; d20+17=19 ; Monday August 7th, 2023 7:28:30 PM
Boyo sniffs around to sense whether the fey creature is around or not [OOC: scent, plus Perception roll for the familiar of 25].
"I'm glad the storm ended before my spell," says Zazu. "What are these boots?"
The elf detects magic, and if magical, attempts to ID them.
Spellcraft 19
Then it is time to prep spells for the day.
Berotha (Jason W) -- AC: 21/13/18, HP: 83/99, CMD: 29 Monday August 7th, 2023 9:15:17 PM
Berotha wakes to see that Thorn has changed the color of the blade on her grandmother's glaive. She snorts heavily and takes several deep, calming breaths. Then she turns to the others, barely containing her powerful feeling of offense "The Fey can be... surprising... at times. Would someone change this back to its proper color?" She knew better than to whisper her frustration at the blasted capricious creatures in the woods, even under her own breath.
Panzer Braun (David F) AC 28 (T16, FF24) CMD 29 HP 100/100 ) Character Sheet Monday August 7th, 2023 10:36:30 PM
When Panzer wakes he looks out into the wold and sighs. "This will be challenging." He rearranges his kit and stows his armor in his pack. It doesn't slow him exactly, but it does make things like swimming and climbing harder. A little bite to eat and he was ready to head out wherever his guides pointed him. He did look around and find a staff before departing. It would be wise to prod ahead a little and knock some of the wet off the trees before he got too wet.
DM: Nick K. The Panzer Scale Tuesday August 8th, 2023 5:17:28 AM
Sahabiel Is thankful that the shelter has outlasted the storm. Panzer Readies for departure and finds a stick to knock excess moisture from the flors. Zazu Seeks to determine if the boots are magical. Boyo Checks to find Thorn Beech. Beech expects that they will still get wet.. Lothlo Makes coffee and checks for Thorn’s presence. Naithi Makes ready for departure. Nightingale Makes ready for departure Berotha Is disgruntled to find her glaive’s handle is now bright pink. She asks that this be reversed if possible.
(OOC: Yes, I did miss Lothlo’s Friday post. Sorry about that. The main thing though is that the sheriff knows and that we are still moving forward as intended.)
Boyo informs Zazu that there’s no hint of the tiny Fey’s continued presence, but does idly wonder whether such things can change the way they smell. Wouldn’t that be interesting? Thorn does not answer when called upon and in short order it is apparent that she is indeed gone. Whilst the breakfast is warming and welcome, the sight before the group is much less so: whilst they’ve avoided a horrendous deluge, much of the water remains yet, clinging tenuously to all the luxuriant plant life that surrounds them. This is not an issue for the many and varied birds of the area. They sing enchantingly before darting away through the thick canopy: a canopy that drips -drips big, fat, heavy droplets of cold water that you know will time their fall perfectly to fall down a neck! The walk ahead is not one that appeals to many. Perhaps worse; the ground being so saturated will be muddy. The mud will cling to boots and feet leaving a trail for anyone to follow should they be so minded. A trail of any sort would surely be more preferable to pushing through such uninviting terrain. On the other hand, once you’re wet, you don’t get much wetter, albeit Panzer’s Scale of Wetness would disagree with that.
(OOC: Plan for the day ahead including “marching order” and precautions taken, etc.)
Zazu Bridgebuilder (AC24, HP61) and Boyo the bunny (AC19, HP30) (Cayzle) Tuesday August 8th, 2023 9:42:07 AM
Zazu continues to seek to determine if the boots are magical.
What is the terrain? Wooded? Heavily wooded? If Zazu thinks that the trees and branches are close enough together, then a spider climb (for Boyo) will keep the duo from getting their paws wet.
"What do you guys think? Leaping from branch to branch like a squirrel would be cool, right?"
(Note that Boyo has a climb speed of 20 without magic. Is the spider climb spell even needed?)
Berotha (Jason W) -- AC: 21/13/18, HP: 83/99, CMD: 29 Tuesday August 8th, 2023 1:08:40 PM
Berotha consider the wet terrain and sighs. "Well there is nothing for it. It must be dealt with." She is happy to keep watch in the front or the back as the group moves along.
OoC: +24 perception to keep an eye out for trouble since we're in my +4 favored terrain.
Panzer Braun (David F) AC 28 (T16, FF24) CMD 29 HP 100/100 ) Character Sheet d20+6=24 ; Tuesday August 8th, 2023 5:54:17 PM
Panzer's unarmored AC 1s 17
Panzer and the Culverwood have an understanding. The 'wood is going to try and kill him at just about every opportunity it gets, and he is going to dread it until it finally succeeds. He takes point and does his best to stick to the most traversable path he can find. He isn't super good at this so he just does his best. Survival 24 to find a usable path. As for direction, the others will guide him.
Beech (JohnC) AC 19(23)/14/15,HP 51/51 Character Tuesday August 8th, 2023 6:42:01 PM
Beech, cuts a branch off that's 7 or 8 feet in length. He plans on using it to shake limbs that still are loaded with water, after the others have gone through. He doesn't expect many to still have soaking levels of water on them. The main reason is to protect his bow string, because he still wants it handy.... the stick will be first thing dropped...., he plans on going near the back of the party as usual, and Berotha has been near by, which keeps him feeling comfortable, just not completely safe, yet, as he's still getting a feeling for the Minotaur.....
Nightingale (JonS) HP 64/64 AC 21 CMD: 23 Tuesday August 8th, 2023 8:36:12 PM
Nightingale is amused at her pink and yellow boots. Responding with a "Thank you Thorn, stay safe my small friend." Nightingale's demeanor changes when she sees the mud, and the water, although she does enjoy checking out the spider webs.
Standing up, she'll turn to Sahabiel, "Cousin, a question, we both have the ability to make make the grasses and plants reach out and grab people and things, do you have any thoughts on how we might change that to make the plants harden or shore up a path for us?"
Sahabiel (EstherLauren) -- AC 23/11/22 -- HP: 65/65 d20+24=36 ; Tuesday August 8th, 2023 8:43:41 PM
Keeping her eyes on the terrain, Sahabiel as before helps point out to Panzer the most traversable way to keep making progress in the direction the party seeks to travel - along preexisting trails if such opportunity presents itself, though this being the Culverwood, she is not counting on there being many helpful ones.
Survival d20+24 = 36
She is wearing good outdoor gear which gives a fair degree of protection against the weather, but she considers awareness of her surroundings to be her best asset in dealing with the wet terrain.
Mud, of course, will be mud. She can avoid the worst of it, but it would be nigh impossible to leave no tracks. But then -- why should they assume they need to beware pursuers at this time? Even the more dangerous hunting creatures of the woods shouldn't waste their energy chasing random trails around in this weather..
Lothlo (WillD) -- AC: 20/15/16, HP: 56/56, CMD: 23 Tuesday August 8th, 2023 9:03:27 PM
Lothlo agrees with Panzer. We are going to be in danger no matter what, and staying in one spot increases the amount of time we are here and the chances we are found. Besides, this is the Culverwood, isn't everything always moving and changing? I don't know how that would affect the ability to follow tracks, but at least it won't as easy as normal right? And with our numbers, hopefully it will make anything think twice before following our tracks.
DM: Nick K. Upon The Trail Wednesday August 9th, 2023 4:58:17 AM
Sahabiel Feels well prepared and deems the likelihood of pursuit at this stage, remote. Panzer Leads the way with some resignation, yet with a sharp sense of which is the best route to take, Zazu Wonders are the boots magical, or just coloured strangely? It is quickly determined that they are merely brightly coloured. The terrain is of intermittent woodland. Between swaying grasses – that are currently leant over with their watery burdens, the trees grow thickly. Those trees are predominantly deciduous. Boyo Doesn’t need a spider climb to navigate through the trees, although he realises that whilst his paws won’t get muddy, his fur will get just as wet. Also, leaping from tree to tree, where necessary will require some skill and effort (Acrobatics checks if the branches of the trees do not mesh) Beech. Cuts a branch!….or does he?….Then elects to stay near the back with Berotha. Lothlo Agrees with Sahabiel. She deems it time to move. Naithi Readies herself quietly for departure. Nightingale Admires her colourful boots and wonders whether magic might aid a drier passage. Berotha Keeps a keen eye open for trouble and is equally happy whether at the front or the back.
Beech (only) Highlight to display spoiler: { As you hack at a likely bough; one that isn’t too large, but offers the much needed aid that is sought, a sense of being watched fills you. That unseen gaze is not friendly. Beech may collect the branch as stated or desist and proceed without. Please state which.}
Clouds pass slowly across the sky, seemingly a few lazy followers of the dense, dark armies of the day before. The wind is gentle, but still fresh. That wind diminishes still further once the group’s path takes them into woodland. As suspected, the going is wet. That wetness brings cold, but nothing debilitating. Yet the storm has brought a freshness too. The colours seem more vivid. Even the scents of woodland and grass seem stronger.
Nothing troubles the travellers and they feel that despite the conditions they have made good progress. Around midday Panzer hears a fluttering in a large willow to his left.
(OOC: Perception checks: Due to the branches and leaves you seeking to pierce a barrier to see what is up there. DC: 28)
Berotha (Jason W) -- AC: 21/13/18, HP: 83/99, CMD: 29 d20+24=37 ; Wednesday August 9th, 2023 9:37:06 AM
Berotha keeps an eye out in the branches as well.
OoC: I think that perception check might be for Panzer only? If not, I got a 37.
Zazu Bridgebuilder (AC24, HP61) and Boyo the bunny (AC19, HP30) (Cayzle) d20=16 ; Wednesday August 9th, 2023 10:15:08 AM
[If Boyo can take 10 on acrobatics checks, he should be fine. With a +14, that's a 24 taking ten for being surefooted. Plus Climb speed.]
Zazu casts Prestidigitation every so often to dry off everybody. The elf keeps a keen lookout as Boyo hops from branch to branch. Plus ranged legerdemain to make sure random branches don't whap us in the snouts.
Perception 16+22 = 38
Nightingale (JonS) HP 64/64 AC 21 CMD: 23 Wednesday August 9th, 2023 3:10:54 PM
The muddier her boots get, and the wetter she gets even though she's trying to avoid the water laden plants and trees, Nightingale wonders if she should have been a wizard ... which makes her laugh out loud, and then blush at her outburst
Beech (JohnC) AC 19(23)/14/15,HP 51/51 Character d20+11=13 ; Wednesday August 9th, 2023 4:58:51 PM
Beech, once he gets that feeling, stops gathering the branch. He opens the quiver with regular sized arrows, and sorts through them. after going through about 6 or 7, he pulls one out and checks it over.... "Hey Panzer, take a look at this will you? Does this look like it's off. It seems to be just slightly off to me, but then again we are in the Wood and everything here seems to hate us." He hopes Panzer, or at least one of the others who pick up things, catch the message....
Bluff to pass message : 13
Sahabiel (EstherLauren) -- AC 23/11/22 -- HP: 65/65 Wednesday August 9th, 2023 5:17:45 PM
Sahabiel is looking to guide the party along a safe path through the terrain, and with her senses already focused on that task her gaze can not be on the willow tree at the same time.
( ooc: I don think it would be fair to let her roll active Perception while she is already acting on her Survival skill, so I am only using passive Perception which is not enough to meet DC 28, so instead she'll depend on those who have the spare time to keep a guard eye out while the group is on the move. Unrelated - I think the group is now out of sync with Beech' action which seems to take place still at the site we left from? )
Lothlo (WillD) -- AC: 20/15/16, HP: 56/56, CMD: 23 d20+15=30 ; Wednesday August 9th, 2023 8:20:21 PM
Lothlo notices Beech checking an arrow and readies one of the green arrows Thorn had colored the night before. Have you been successful in keeping the water off your bow? I have never tried your technique before.
Perception = 30
Panzer Braun (David F) AC 28 (T16, FF24) CMD 29 HP 100/100 ) Character Sheet d20=8 ; d20=6 ; Wednesday August 9th, 2023 8:24:31 PM
Perception 12 that ship was never gonna sail anyway. Panzer keeps moving on until Beech calls him. He turns around and squints at Beech having no idea what the Liontaur is talking about Wisdom check 6
DM: Nick K. Upon The Trail Thursday August 10th, 2023 5:27:21 AM
Sahabiel Sahabiel focuses effectively on sterering the group true. Panzer Has no clue what Beech is mumbling about. Zazu Aids travel and the mood of the group by regularly drying everyone.. Boyo Happily hops through the trees, albeit somewhat slowly at times. Beech. Sends Panzer a coded message. Lothlo Readies an arrow and asks Beech about keeping the bows dry. Naithi Quietly follows. Nightingale Gets muddy and wet and considers the ludicrous option of being a wizard. Berotha Spots something in the thick branches of the trees.
(OOC: My understanding is that Taking 10, means you take ten times longer thereby eliminating certain elements of chance. Thus waiting for Boyo to “take ten” before each leap would slow travel considerably. I may be wrong. Please correct me if so.)
Berotha only. Highlight to display spoiler: { You spot, high amongst the branches of a stout willow, three large crows. It’s difficult to tell with the gentle sway of the branches but – did they have red eyes? You think so.}
Despite a halting start; one wherein Berotha has reason to stop and stare (and possibly comment thereafter), the day is better than most expected. The ground absorbs much of the wetness and it’s possible to wipe away the mud in the grassy areas between the trees. By midday much of the moisture has left the plants courtesy of bright, warming sunshine. The Culverwood is alive with birdsong. Bay willow herb seed drifts laconically across your way. (It’s much like dandelion seeds) The tall, purple blossomed plants thrived amongst the grasses. Then the birds grew silent.
(Perception (Noise) DC: 15)
Beech (JohnC) AC 19(23)/14/15,HP 51/51 Character Thursday August 10th, 2023 12:48:17 PM
taking 10 Highlight to display spoiler: { Taking 10: When your character is not in immediate danger or distracted, you may choose to take 10. Instead of rolling 1d20 for the skill check, calculate your result as if you had rolled a 10. For many routine tasks, taking 10 makes them automatically successful. Distractions or threats (such as combat) make it impossible for a character to take 10. In most cases, taking 10 is purely a safety measure—you know (or expect) that an average roll will succeed but fear that a poor roll might fail, so you elect to settle for the average roll (a 10). Taking 10 is especially useful in situations where a particularly high roll wouldn’t help.
There is nothing that says it adds time, it's taking the Average of 10 on the D20}
Nightingale (JonS) HP 64/64 AC 21 CMD: 23 Perception: d20+14=29 Thursday August 10th, 2023 4:22:59 PM
Not catching on to what Beech, Panzer, and Lothlo are discussing, Nightingale will look around and then up in the canopy above them, hoping to spot the sun, and not more rainclouds
(Edited post as my roll didn't show up)
Zazu Bridgebuilder (AC24, HP61) and Boyo the bunny (AC19, HP30) (Cayzle) d20+21=28 ; d20+14=28 ; Thursday August 10th, 2023 5:12:25 PM
[OOC: At +22 Zazu cannot fail that check. Also, it is taking 20 that requires extra time, not taking 10.]]
From the branches above, Zazu and Boyo enjoy the outdoors until the birds fall silent. Quickly, Zazu casts Mage Armor and (if there is time) Detect Magic.
The pair look for a good place in the foliage above in which to hide.
Stealth Zazu 28 Boyo 28
Panzer Braun (David F) AC 28 (T16, FF24) CMD 29 HP 100/100 ) Character Sheet d20+4=5 ; Thursday August 10th, 2023 5:39:56 PM
Perception 5 Wondering what Beech is on about Panzer hears nothing. With no explanation forthcoming he turns back to the job at hand and blazes a path.
Lothlo (WillD) -- AC: 20/15/16, HP: 56/56, CMD: 23 Thursday August 10th, 2023 6:06:44 PM Beech, what was that back there? Did you notice something? Was there something hiding in the tree, or do you think something is following us? If it was just something in the tree, no big deal, but if something is following us we may want to make a plan.
Sahabiel (EstherLauren) -- AC 23/11/22 -- HP: 65/65 d20+7=13 ; Thursday August 10th, 2023 6:22:21 PM (ooc: Nick, I think you are confusing it with Take20, that is a different can of worms. Taking 10 does not make performing the action take any longer.)
(Since I missed my Perception roll, there is nothing in the previous post for me to interact with, please assume Sahabiel proceeds as she was?)
Beech (JohnC) AC 19(23)/14/15,HP 51/51 Character Thursday August 10th, 2023 8:52:33 PM
With the group having traveled a fair distance, "When I went to cut that branch, I got this feeling of severe danger, almost like a threat to my well being. I tried to pass the message, but I see I need a lot of practice in passing messages that way." Beech, says only slightly louder than a whisper...
Berotha (Jason W) -- AC: 21/13/18, HP: 83/99, CMD: 29 Thursday August 10th, 2023 9:32:22 PM
Berotha looks back over her shoulder and fills in the others in low tones. "I saw three crows in that willow tree high above us. I believe they may have had red eyes but I cannot say for certain from such a distance."
DM: Nick K. Upon The Trail Friday August 11th, 2023 5:58:33 AM
(OOC: Thanks for clarifying the rule on Taking 10)
Sahabiel Notices nothing remis and carries on Panzer Continues on, leading the way. Zazu .Invokes magical protection and looks for concealment Boyo .Seeks the protective cover of the trees. Beech. Conveys his experience to Lothlo and those in earshot. Lothlo Asks Beech what causes such concern. Naithi Follows the others. Nightingale .Looks around to maintain her bearings. Berotha Reports seeing 3 crows – possibly they had red eyes.
Nightingale spots some shadowy shapes in the canopy. Berotha & Nightingale: Highlight to display spoiler: { It’s unclear; did those birds just fly off or did they turn into smoke and vanish?} There’s a brief cessation of progress as certain members of the group stop to uneasily look around. Zazu, protections firmly in place scans for magic, but determines nothing definitive. Seeking magic in and around the Culverwood is sometimes ….challenging. In this instance it does seem reasonable to assume that ‘no news is good news’. Certainly the crows are no longer evident.
You press on and less than an hour later, you find yourselves in a lush clearing. A small stream, barely a rivulet, trickles into a pristine pond. White lillies dot the surface. Towering bullrushes dominate its southern bank. The clearing itself is, by your rough estimation, about 50 feet in diameter. The air is thick with mayflies. A golden dragonfly hovers near the water’s edge before darting away. The sun shines. The wind abates yet further. This quiet space seems to exude a soothing aura or perhaps given all that’s happened, that’s just wishful thinking.
(All to make an Intuition check W:14. Success Highlight to display spoiler: {you feel at peace, relaxed and calm. Your spirits are lifted. Gain 1 temporary hit point and 1 temporary point of CH whilst in the grove.} FailureHighlight to display spoiler: { There’s definitely something unsettling about this place. You are at -1 to hit and saves whilst in the area}
Nightingale (JonS) HP 64/64 AC 21 CMD: 23 Intuition check: d20+4=7 ; Friday August 11th, 2023 8:12:09 AM
Nightingale doesn't realize she's missed anything out of the ordinary, only that this location gives her the willies
Sahabiel (EstherLauren) -- AC 23/11/22 -- HP: 65/65 d20+4=8 ; Friday August 11th, 2023 10:13:39 AM
Sahabiel fails her check, and feels uneasy. Not that she did not have enough reasons to already.
"I feel like we are being toyed with", opines Sahabiel quietly. "From that time we received visitors from the Tree of Parting, it feels like some faceless threat just has had it in for us. Dark druids, Darkening, some mingling of fey and undeath, Dark Masters.. both allies and enemies keep teasing things that just don't add up to a whole picture, and despite our best efforts, we keep coming up not knowing anything about what we are even up against. And yet, it has attacked our home over and over whenever we are away, and it seems that one vague threat or another has us under surveillance wherever and whenever."
She sighs.
To the others who call Freedom Landing home, which does not quite include Berotha yet, she confesses: "When we return.. if we return.. to Freedom's Landing, I have half a mind to ask Ghundit and Limka to move somewhere safer. And then.. I don't know.. my original mission was to see yer settlement grow in harmony with the Culverwood, but that is pretty much scuttled from the other end right now. I serve the Will of the Culverwood. My tribe.. the rest of my family.. they are all still in there. Part of me has been wanting to ride back, deep into the wood, to go home and see what has happened to my home village, see if they are holding out against this faceless dark.. see if everyone is still alive. I don't right now even understand how what we are fighting and the power that I serve relate to each other... am I even on the right side of my own faith anymore?"
Panzer Braun (David F) AC 28 (T16, FF24) CMD 29 HP 100/100 ) Character Sheet d20=7 ; Friday August 11th, 2023 1:44:53 PM
Wisdom 7 Panzer sighs in relief when he sees the clearing and picks up the pace to get to the pool. Three steps into the clearing his relief turns to uneasiness, then outright suspicion. He looks down and finds both of his blades in his hands and his hackles rise up. Too open. This place is too open and something waits at the edges to murder them. Wordlessly he backtracks, stepping back into the trees at the edge of the clearing and dropping his pack as soon as he reaches the wood line. He starts donning his armor, knowing it is too late but craving the assurance it brings.
Lothlo (WillD) -- AC: 20/15/16, HP: 56/56, CMD: 23 d20+2=10 ; Friday August 11th, 2023 6:35:38 PM
Lothlo shudders, despite the happy dragon fly, there is something unsetteling about this place. Naith, do me a favor and don't go swimming in this water. I'm already on edge for some reason, I don't want to think about what another dip in the water could do this time.
wisdom = 10
Zazu Bridgebuilder (AC24, HP61) and Boyo the bunny (AC19, HP30) (Cayzle) d20+1=6 ; Friday August 11th, 2023 9:46:43 PM
Will check at 6.
Zazu notices nothing. But that does not stop the trickster from delivering an opinion.
“I’m getting a bad feeling about this. We should stay safe by keeping cautious.”
Berotha (Jason W) -- AC: 21/13/18, HP: 83/99, CMD: 29 d20+2=8 ; Friday August 11th, 2023 11:17:57 PM
OoC: Incredible how consistently we failed that, assuming W for wisdom not will. If will, then I get a 15 on the same dice roll.
Berotha is unsettled as well in this area and listens to Sahabiel's concerns. "Indeed, I do not understand why people would try to build a town so close to such a dangerous wood. Perhaps the settlers should move? Maybe one of you can explain it to me."
Beech (JohnC) AC 19(23)/14/15,HP 51/51 Character d20=7 ; Saturday August 12th, 2023 7:00:21 PM
Beech, still feeling the effects from earlier, is not in the least surprised that he feels uncomfortable in the clearing...."I get the feeling that anyplace that looks safe in the change taking place in the Culver Wood, is nothing but a trap in reality..."
DM: Nick K. OOC NOTE Sunday August 13th, 2023 7:26:35 AM
Greetings all, The PTB are reviewing the next module. I am seeking to make a seamless transition (which is why you haven't been home). Matters were not made easier by the sudden departure of your last DM.
The 3 saves, Fort (F) Reflex (R) and Will (W) I annotate with the single capital letter. So the previous post requires a W save, not Wisdom.
Congratulations on awesomely low rolling. It's good to see that the heroes of Bearclaw keep aren't the only ones to achieve such abject low rolls. (We can do it on a consistent basis though.)
DM: Nick K. Not something you see every day Monday August 14th, 2023 5:55:50 AM
Whilst the clearing looks calm and inviting, there is something – something unsettling about the vista that makes the group uncomfortable; uncomfortable enough that they are loathe to enter the clearing. As they stand quietly, airing their misgivings, a creature rises from the water! Water cascades from the gorgeous nymph’s back. Her water-darkened blonde hair sticks to her pristine flesh. She makes her way unhurriedly to the rivulet that empties into the pond. Her progress is at times obscured by the tall bullrushes, but she reappears to sit adjacent the tiny stream. Her hair is now dry, lustrous and reflects the sun enchantingly. The birds continue to sing, untroubled by her presence. The insects dart about their important business with the same industry as before.
Zazu Bridgebuilder (AC24, HP61) and Boyo the bunny (AC19, HP30) (Cayzle) Monday August 14th, 2023 6:30:53 AM
Zazu calls out softly, “helloooo! excuse us please. sorry to be a bother. hope we can beg just a couple minutes of your time?”
Sahabiel (EstherLauren) -- AC 23/11/22 -- HP: 65/65 d20+15=20 ; Monday August 14th, 2023 6:51:20 AM (ooc: our mistake then -- if that roll should have been a Willpower save instead of a Wisdom check, then even with a low roll, Sahabiel succeeded. So I am going to reinterpret the situation from the assumption that instead, Sahabiel would have felt good about this place on arrival)
Sahabiel was about the explain the Berotha that until very, very recently, settling near the Culverwood had been perfectly safe, and the wood a fairly benign place (in her own, slightly biased opinion of course) for those who respected its laws. It was only that those laws included to give as much as was taken, and to refrain from many of the forms of exploitation of nature that people from outside the woods considered a normal state of affairs, that it had a reputation of a wild, monster-ridden wood that pushed back against 'civilization'.
At this point however, something rises from the water, and Sahabiel...
(Knowledge (Nature) for a monster lore check to identify a fey as a nymph, DC 10+CR = 17, roll d20+15 = 20, success)
...recognizes that the group must have stumbled upon a nymph's pond. She quickly assumes a position of apology, for having invaded the nymph's domain without seeking her permission, and in Sylvan belatedly greets their host with a blessing, <"Mo sheacht mbeannacht ort!">.
Berotha (Jason W) -- AC: 21/13/18, HP: 83/99, CMD: 29 Monday August 14th, 2023 9:33:04 AM
OoC: Ah then Berotha also passed the roll. What is 1 point of CH? I don't know what that acronym means in this context.
Berotha's body tenses when the nymph appears but she studiously thinks to herself "Do not draw your weapon... Do no draw your weapon..." She waits to see the nymph's response.
Panzer Braun (David F) AC 28 (T16, FF24) CMD 29 HP 100/100 ) Character Sheet Monday August 14th, 2023 10:10:16 AM
OOC astonishingly Panzer was within a point of making that when it became a will save. IC Panzer finishes strapping on his gear and reshoulders his pack. As far as he could tell from where he stood, this nymph had forgotten to wear clothes while frolicking in the pool. for he modesty Panzer averts his gaze.
Naithi (JamesD) AC: 19/14/16 HP: 113/114 , CMD = 22 Camalayas AC = 24/18/18 Monday August 14th, 2023 1:40:32 PM
ooc: I am back from vacation. I hope Will was able to relay my message. I was supposed to have Internet access, but it kept going out. I'm going to try to catch up on the posts as quick as I can.
Beech (JohnC) AC 19(23)/14/15,HP 51/51 Character Monday August 14th, 2023 4:04:49 PM
Beech, not trusting of anything that comes out of the Culverwood, stays on edge....
DM & EveryoneHighlight to display spoiler: { please don't use abbreviations for saves and stuff like that, typing 3 or 4 extra keys won't kill anyone }
Lothlo (WillD) -- AC: 20/15/16, HP: 56/56, CMD: 23 Monday August 14th, 2023 7:25:40 PM
Lothlo feels a sense of calm when he sees the nymph, the brief moment of unease washed away from him as if it was never actually there. The archer notices Sahabiel's actions, and since she appears to know the unwritten rules and proper decorum for the Culverwood, he follows her lead and assumes a position of apology
ooc: I feel like the confusion was all on me for this one. I actually read it as a Will save, thought to myself that I wished my wisdom was higher for will saves... then proceeded to check my Wisdom score instead of Will because I'm the sleep deprived father of a three month old.
Nightingale (JonS) HP 64/64 AC 21 CMD: 23 Monday August 14th, 2023 7:34:18 PM
OOC: As a Will save, Nightingale would have saved as well, she's got a +14
IC: Nightingale wathces in awe as the water nymph rises and moves through the clearing. Looking down at the state of her clothes she wonders if the nymph would be kind enough to let the party clean up and then talk about whats been happening in the region.
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