Kaida draws the symbol and explains in more detail what she saw, and didn't see.
Nadia identifies the symbol as belonging to the Old Ones, when Fhorge was an Old One. She takes this as a good sign.
Aydi discusses who they might talk to for more information, Brother Woldbrow and the human scholar.
Nora tries to figure things out, but finds she doesn't need to.
Hamlin agrees with what Nadia said, although he is less certain about it being a sign. He isn't sure what to do about the bear.
Aymar doesn't recognize the symbol, but finds Nadia's explanation interesting. He wonders why an altar to Fhorge would be here.
Ian and Frit listen, but don't add to the conversation.
In Drakesmeade, the group is able to research and learn a little more about the Old Ones. When the dwarves tell tales of the powers of the Scab, they talk only of Fhorge, Scald, and the Swarm Queen. Fhorge and Scald were both Old Ones. Several others are imprisoned in the mountains of the Scab by the gods, and one of Fhorge's duties is to keep them bound. It is said that the giants retain more lore of the Old Ones, but who can tell? Except for a handful of fire giants, the giants and dwarves are foes or at least fiece competitors.
Eventually the group finds it necessary to retire for the night, picking up with their plans in the morning.
Jess- Fritjof -- AC 15/15/13 -- CMD 19 -- HP 23/23 Wednesday October 11th, 2023 8:09:11 AM
Frit wakes up early in the morning. He goes for a jog through the city streets, then finds a place to do his balance and strength training: burpees, single-leg squats, lunges, crunches, mountain climbers, planks. He then goes through his yoga routine and ends in lotus position, meditating in the morning sun.
He meets the party for breakfast and to discuss their plans for the bear. "I've b--- I've been thinking. I know you said you wanted to talk to the bear, ma'am," he says to Nadia. "But it didn't seem to keen on listening yesterday. So, how are we going to persuade it to hear you out this today?"
Spencer Holloway Nadia Silvershield AC 19/13/15 HP 11/11 Wednesday October 11th, 2023 9:24:12 AM
Nadia spent the night communicating to figure out her best course, one of which is ensuring she knew how to speak with animals. As this was a peaceful day, she figured it to be helpful. Which leads best to her words to Frit
"We intruded into a temple unspoken to be fair. If someone walked into your home and was loud and bothersome, would you not be annoyed? If this is a guardian, it may be reasonable to a degree. We know it is a temple to my god at least, so it bears perhaps I can speak. Otherwise, we know some fire giants are helpful. We may need their help as well. Maybe."
StephenT - Aydi Alzila -- AC 16/13/13 -- CMD 14 -- HP 21/23 d6=3 ; Wednesday October 11th, 2023 3:37:59 PM
Aydi will roam around Drakesmeade thinking of ways he can help make sure his group will be safe. He ends up at the baths and just contemplating how he can make sure his group comes out in one piece. After a bit he will go back and clean his gear and get some rest. He still is not sure what can be done if they continue on search the area around the bears home.
OOC: I rolled the D6 to see where Aydi would end up on a table I made.
Hamlin Vashtel -- AC 13/13/10 -- CMD 13 -- HP 13/13 Wednesday October 11th, 2023 4:53:35 PM
Hamlin meets up with most of the group and makes a humble suggestion. "Today I think we should decide how far we are willing to take this to explore this altar. If someone can't convince the bear to leave then looking at this altar will require lethal force to be used on the bear. Otherwise we can leave it be. I for one want to look at other locations".
MM - Eleonora Deepmine -- AC 17/13/14 -- CMD 12 -- HP 19/19 Wednesday October 11th, 2023 6:29:50 PM
In the morning, Nora prays to her goddess: "Flower, today, give me a way of healing, let me bless my companions and show me the way to understand anyone in need".
She joins the others in breakfast, taking some pancakes and drowning them in honey. Eating her sticky meal, she explains to the others: "I asked for the language comprehension spell, it might come handy if we find texts. We found a symbol, so some kind of markings already."
---- OOC: Spells prepared: Cure light wounds, Bless, Comprehend languages
RobC - Kaida Shadowplay -- AC 13/13/11 -- CMD 11 -- HP 17/17 Wednesday October 11th, 2023 6:50:02 PM
Nora has the best idea of the day, and Kaida follows her lead: pancakes and honey
"If we get the bear outside again we could find some way to stop it going back inside? Throw some torches to block the entrance maybe? What else would deter a bear? If it can't get inside maybe it will just move on"
StephenT - Aydi Alzila -- AC 16/13/13 -- CMD 14 -- HP 21/23 Wednesday October 11th, 2023 7:40:48 PM
Once everyone is up and planning for the day. Aydi speaks up. "I am willing to be bait to get the bears attention. Worse case I can make some mists to hide in." Aydi will pull out the paper seal poncho.
Dominik - Aymar Shakhtar -- AC 17/13/14 -- CMD 17 -- HP 21/21 Wednesday October 11th, 2023 7:50:36 PM
Aymar remarks, "I think we have to find out if this bear is a guardian or just an animal that roamed into a random cave. That will dictate our next course of action."
StephenT - Aydi Alzila -- AC 16/13/13 -- CMD 14 -- HP 23/23 Wednesday October 11th, 2023 7:56:57 PM "True I hope a guardian, but if not I can poke the bear"
Jess- Fritjof -- AC 15/15/13 -- CMD 19 -- HP 23/23 Wednesday October 11th, 2023 8:36:52 PM
To Nadia, Frit will say softly, his eyes downcast, "Apologies, mmmmmma'am. I didn't mean any disrespect. You make a fair point."
To the rest of the group, he'll say, "Not sure that it wise to anger or frustrate the bear further. Nadia's right that we intruded in its home or temple or whatever that space is to it. Don't much care for the idea of taking that space away from it unless necessary and we can't find a peaceable way to go about this. Especially if it is a guardian or the like. Is there a way to lure it out to talk to it--on more neutral ground and on its terms? Plan to block the entrance as a last resort and only if it can't or w-w-w-won't listen to reason?"
Frit prepares for the new day with a training routine. When he greets the others, he has questions about whether the bear wants to talk with them. He thinks it's not wise to frustrate it.
Nadia prepares her spells. She answers Frit that if the bear is a guardian, it may be reasonable.
Aydi worries about making sure his friends stay safe. He is still unsure when they regroup. He offers to be bait for the bear.
Hamlin wants to know what the group is willing to do at the cave. He is still prepared to look at other sites.
Nora prays to her goddess. At breakfast, she mentions being ready if they find any texts.
Kaida wonders about keeping the bear out of the cave.
Aymar thinks their action will depend on whether the bear is a guardian or an animal sheltering in the cave.
Ian is too busy eating to talk.
As the group prepares for the day, Muriel stops by and asks if they will be needing her that morning. As the talk turns to luring the bear out, Muriel mentions that the clan would probably reimburse the cost of any food they take if they end up building at the cave.
(OOC: The group may take Muriel along, but don't need her to find their way to the cave and back now.)
After their preparations are made, they head out toward the cave again. As before, the path is rugged, and approaching the cave will mean climbing through the pile of rocks that fell from the cliff face, and which crunch underfoot. From forty feet outside the cave, looking in, they cannot tell if the bear is there.
StephenT - Aydi Alzila -- AC 16/13/13 -- CMD 14 -- HP 23/23 d20+12=14 ; d20+8=17 ; Thursday October 12th, 2023 1:55:48 PM
Aydi will scout ahead and check to see if the bear is still around.
OOC Stealth 14 Perception 17
Hamlin Vashtel -- AC 13/13/10 -- CMD 13 -- HP 13/13 Thursday October 12th, 2023 5:21:06 PM
As Aydi prepares to enter Hamlin says. "Here let me at least give everyone going in a small blessing from Wardd" Hamlin will give his "bit of luck" domain power to all allies going into the cave. (Basically roll 2d20 and take the higher on the skill checks to sneak in).
Hamlin himself will stay outside the cave at this time.
MM - Eleonora Deepmine -- AC 17/13/14 -- CMD 12 -- HP 19/19 Thursday October 12th, 2023 6:11:26 PM "So, whose going this time? I'll cast the message spell on you again. I hope the bear is nicer and agrees to chat more today." Nora says, ready to cast her spell on whoever is chosen to have it.
StephenT - Aydi Alzila -- AC 16/13/13 -- CMD 14 -- HP 23/23 d20+12=27 ; d20+8=9 ; Thursday October 12th, 2023 7:00:27 PM
With the Bit of Luck Stealth 27 Perception 17
Dominik - Aymar Shakhtar -- AC 17/13/14 -- CMD 17 -- HP 21/21 Thursday October 12th, 2023 7:24:00 PM
Aymar suggests, "Why don't we do some recon and see what kind of schedule the bear has. Maybe it would be more willing to talk outside of the cave, where it doesn't have something to guard. Also would give us a chance to go into the cave and explore a bit to see if its truly worth it."
Jess- Fritjof -- AC 15/15/13 -- CMD 19 -- HP 23/23 Thursday October 12th, 2023 7:55:24 PM
Frit will agree with Aymar. "A bit of patience and observation might help us to figure out the b-b-best way to approach."
RobC - Kaida Shadowplay -- AC 13/13/11 -- CMD 11 -- HP 17/17 Thursday October 12th, 2023 11:25:34 PM
Kaida isn't clear on who has the ability to speak with the bear. She'll stand aside and let them try. They may have better success that she did. She'll try and stand outside this time. She's pretty slow on her feet compared to everyone else and could use a head start.
- DM SteveM & Cayzle Thursday October 12th, 2023 11:40:20 PM
As the adventurers return to the cave the day after their encounter with the enormous bear, they are met with an unexpected sight. The massive bear is nowhere to be found, leaving the cave entrance vacant and seemingly devoid of danger. The sense of relief and curiosity fills the air as they cautiously enter the cavern.
Inside the cave, the atmosphere is dimly lit through the low entrance. Survival DC 12: Highlight to display spoiler: {You realize there has been nothing but animals in this cave for centuries.}
In a little recess in the cave, standing in a shallow pit as Kaida had described, stands a centuries-old stone altar. Being able to remove the dust without fear of alerting the bear, the group finds it covered in cryptic inscriptions and intricate carvings. Looking closely, it was probably moved here from somewhere else. The four sleeping nooks would fit small creatures at best.
How much exploration does the party do, given that the bear could return?
----- Apologies for the short post today. It has been a hectic evening.
Spencer Holloway Nadia Silvershield AC 19/13/15 HP 11/11 Friday October 13th, 2023 1:46:55 AM
Nadia will take the time to keep watch for the bear unless she is called in to examine the alter. She will speak to the bear if it returns, but otherwise she will let the other smarter party members examine the cave.
"We never know when the bear will come back, but I shall guard us. And then talk to the bear. I feel it means no harm to us."
StephenT - Aydi Alzila -- AC 16/13/13 -- CMD 14 -- HP 23/23 d20+9=27 ; Friday October 13th, 2023 11:14:03 AM
Aydi seeing the bear is not in the cave will go in checking for traps or hidden doors after he is done will head out and stand watch for anything coming.
OOC Perception 26 27 for traps
Dominik - Aymar Shakhtar -- AC 17/13/14 -- CMD 17 -- HP 21/21 d20+4=9 ; d20+6=19 ; Friday October 13th, 2023 2:10:54 PM
Aymar will enter the cave and look around. He will investigate for evil auras (Detect Evil) around the cave and on the altar. Once satisfied, he will go over to the altar to help if he can.
{OOC: Know: Arcana - 9, Know: Religion - 19}
StephenT - Aydi Alzila -- AC 16/13/13 -- CMD 14 -- HP 23/23 d12=11 ; d20=17 ; d20=20 ; Friday October 13th, 2023 3:39:37 PM
17 survival for Aydi.
He will say that it looks like besides us there has only been animals in here for a long time.
StephenT - Aydi Alzila -- AC 16/13/13 -- CMD 14 -- HP 23/23 Friday October 13th, 2023 3:40:12 PM
Ignore the other rolls wasted that nat 20
Jess- Fritjof -- AC 15/15/13 -- CMD 19 -- HP 23/23 d20+8=17 ; Friday October 13th, 2023 5:34:01 PM
Frit will look at the size of the cave and decide that it is best if he says outside with Nadia and keep watch. He's not going to fit anyway, and he doesn't know much about religion, despite his Master's attempts to teach him.
OOC Perception: 17
MM - Eleonora Deepmine -- AC 17/13/14 -- CMD 12 -- HP 19/19 d20+2=11 ; Friday October 13th, 2023 5:58:38 PM
When the front scouts report the absence of the bear, Nora follows inside and comes to examine the mysterious altar.
"Hmm, these inscriptions don't look familiar at all. Well, this is what the magic is for. Kielitieto!" Nora calls the magic of Flower, and tries to make some sense of the writing.
------------- OOC: Survival 11, almost but not quite there. Cast comprehend languages.
RobC - Kaida Shadowplay -- AC 13/13/11 -- CMD 11 -- HP 17/17 d20=6 ; Friday October 13th, 2023 7:27:56 PM
Kaida stays outside the cave with Nadia and Frit and makes no attempt to hide. The group want to talk to the bear and springing out from the bushes might startle it. She wants it to see her not causing any trouble. She'll try and find a position that gives her the best view of the surroundings, hoping to see the bear well in advance.
Aydi checks for traps or hidden doors in the cave, then heads out to watch. He mentions that only animals have been in the cave for a long time.
Nadia keeps watch for the bear, unless they need her to watch the altar. Frit decides the cave is a bit small for everyone, and stays outside. Kaida stays outside, as she wants to talk to the bear. Hamlin and Ian look around, but stay quiet.
Aymar looks for evil auras, then looks over the altar. Nora tries to read the carvings on the altar, using her magic.
Inside the cave, Aydi finds no traps. Aymar finds no evil. And Nora finds that the altar is dedicated to the old ones, "our eternal guides and protectors". It does not mention any specific old one, but the group as a whole. Possibly the altar could have been used for services for any or all of them. Various spirals and animal figures are among the symbols. The central symbol is an eye from which lines radiate to various phases of the moon.
The pit beneath the altar is uneven, as is the base of the altar. Looking closely, it was probably moved here from somewhere else. Perhaps more could be learned wherever it used to be, but there is no way of telling where that was.
Jess- Fritjof -- AC 15/15/13 -- CMD 19 -- HP 23/23 d20+8=17 ; Saturday October 14th, 2023 12:54:32 PM
Frit will look at the size of the cave and decide that it is best if he says outside with Nadia and keep watch. He's not going to fit anyway, and he doesn't know much about religion, despite his Master's attempts to teach him.
OOC Perception: 17
Jess- Fritjof -- AC 15/15/13 -- CMD 19 -- HP 23/23 d20+8=22 ; Saturday October 14th, 2023 12:57:14 PM OOC: Sorry, I don't know why previous post duplicated. Please ignore
Frit will continue to stay outside and keep looking out for any danger, especially of the bear variety.
OOC: Perception 22
StephenT - Aydi Alzila -- AC 16/13/13 -- CMD 14 -- HP 23/23 d20+12=13 ; d20+8=15 ; Saturday October 14th, 2023 7:23:34 PM
Aydi will continue to stand watch while listening to what the others were saying about the alter. Aydi will suggest, "maybe we should go to one of the last two locations there is not much we can do here except let the elders know what we found."
He will then go check the perimeter for any surprises.
Stealth 13 Perception 15
Hamlin Vashtel -- AC 13/13/10 -- CMD 13 -- HP 13/13 Sunday October 15th, 2023 12:37:33 PM
Hamlin nods at Aydi and smiles " come along now everyone I think we should look into the Ravine just for the sake of thoroughness. Lead the way Aydi."
MM - Eleonora Deepmine -- AC 17/13/14 -- CMD 12 -- HP 19/19 d20+6=10 ; Sunday October 15th, 2023 6:24:24 PM "Well, that didn't help much. What it did was confirm that it is for the old ones, as a group. And it has been moved here? By whom, why on earth this place? And where it was originally, and ultimately, what is its purpose? Just a general altar, or one dedicated to the imprisonment of evil or what?"
"It could be magic, and it might be possible to find matching writings to those ones. Worth a try", she says, and starts casting a spell. "Taianpaljastus!" she calls Flower to detect magic, and goes carefully through the whole altar. Then, she digs out the ink and paper from her pack, and tries to copy the markings as carefully as possible. All the time she examines the altar, she keeps an eye on anything peculiar about it.
--------------------- OOC: Perception 10. Cast Detect Magic. Is it possible to take 20 for perception here?
RobC - Kaida Shadowplay -- AC 13/13/11 -- CMD 11 -- HP 17/17 Sunday October 15th, 2023 11:17:40 PM "How far do you think it is to Drakesmeade from here, tunnelling right through the mountain?" Kaida is still wondering about it. A tunnel would give safety to everyone who wanted to come this way and avoid the dangers of overland travel. It would also help keep the location secret.
Dominik - Aymar Shakhtar -- AC 17/13/14 -- CMD 17 -- HP 21/21 Monday October 16th, 2023 7:32:45 PM
Aymar is a slightly disappointed that the altar didn't amount to much. He will assist Nora in copying the markings if she agrees.
Inside the cave, Aymar assists Nora in taking notes, a bit disappointed there wasn't more. Nora copies the markings, thinking they might find more. She casts detect magic and after a short time calls out that there is something powerful under the altar.
Outside the cave, Frit continues to keep an eye out. Aydi suggests going to the remaining possible sites. Hamlin agrees with Aydi. Kaida wonders how far it is to Drakesmeade by the most direct route. Nadia and Ian listen to the conversations.
Everyone hears When Nora says that there is magic under the altar. The cave is big enough to fit the entire group, although it would be cramped as quarters for so many.
After clearing some debris away from around the base of the altar, and encountering wood beneath that, the question becomes how carefully the group wants to investigate this. It would take several to move the altar enough to dig anything underneath it out.
RobC - Kaida Shadowplay -- AC 13/13/11 -- CMD 11 -- HP 17/17 Tuesday October 17th, 2023 3:45:03 AM "Perhaps this could become a kind of rear entrance to Drakesmeade?" Kaida wonders aloud.
She isn't sure what the group inside are doing, but keeps her eyes open for the bear should it return.
Spencer Holloway Nadia Silvershield AC 19/13/15 HP 11/11 Tuesday October 17th, 2023 10:19:18 AM " We may not want a rear entrance without a guard though. Let us figure out this puzzle on this magic found though. I can not say who should touch it, does anyone other than me worship and of the Gods who are present here? I have little wish to disrespect an alter, but random magic laying around seems dangerous. If nothing else I will grab it."
Nadia then cast a prayer up to ensure that she is making the correct movement when she helps assisting in moving the alter and grabbing the item when appropriate to do so.
Jason Whited - Ian Shadowcrest -- AC 17/14/14 -- CMD 14 -- HP 22/22 Tuesday October 17th, 2023 10:33:55 AM
Ian will help guard the entrance.
StephenT - Aydi Alzila -- AC 16/13/13 -- CMD 14 -- HP 23/23 d20+9=24 ; d20+1=7 ; Tuesday October 17th, 2023 12:28:19 PM
Aydi hearing about the magic and a need to move the alter he will help move the alter. Before they start moving the alter he will check for traps.
OOC Perception 23 Traps 24 Strength Check 7
Dominik - Aymar Shakhtar -- AC 17/13/14 -- CMD 17 -- HP 21/21 d20=2 ; d20=14 ; Tuesday October 17th, 2023 12:59:06 PM
Aymar was having a bit of a rough time trying to copy the symbols (Dex check 4). "Stone is so rough, wood is much easier to work with." Aymar complains.
Aymar is excited to hear Nora statement. He will allow Aydi to check for traps and then help with its removal. (Strength check 16)
{OOC: Dex check for copying symbols: 2+2=4, Strength check for moving the altar: 14+2=16}
Jess- Fritjof -- AC 15/15/13 -- CMD 19 -- HP 23/23 d20+3=12 ; Tuesday October 17th, 2023 3:26:40 PM
Frit hunches over to make his way into the cave. "Perhaps you wouldn't mind saying a pray your God, ma'am, asking his f---forgiveness and protection before we disturb anything?" he asks Nadia.
He will help move the alter once Aydi has checked for traps.
OOC: Strength check: 12 (9+3)
MM - Eleonora Deepmine -- AC 17/13/14 -- CMD 12 -- HP 19/19 Tuesday October 17th, 2023 3:57:25 PM
Nora moves out of the cave. "I'd like to see what is under the altar, but I'm of no use in lifting anything heavy. Could you strong ones move it?" she asks the group.
Hamlin Vashtel -- AC 13/13/10 -- CMD 13 -- HP 13/13 d20=13 ; Tuesday October 17th, 2023 4:58:10 PM
Hamlin will stay on lookout for the bear. Ooc perception =20
Kaida stays outside to watch for the bear, and wonders about this becoming an entrance to Drakesmeade.
Nadia goes into the cave to help move the altar.
Ian stays out and helps guard the entrance.
Aydi goes in to check for traps. He finds no traps on the altar or floor.
Aymar helps move the altar when Aydi is done.
Frit helps move the altar when Aydi is done.
Nora goes outside, feeling she is of no use moving the stone.
Hamlin stays outside on lookout.
Inside the cave, folks work at moving the altar. This has the effect of scraping the ground beneath it a bit, but also setting off a trap on the chest. Aydi is splashed with acid, taking 6 points of damage. He is able to determine this was an ancient spell that was still active, and that this sort of trap does not reset. After much effort and at times little grace, the altar is manhandled to the edge of the depression it as centered in, revealing a chest in a hollow chiseled into the rock floor.
The chest is easily opened, and found to contain antique coins -- gold, silver, and electrum -- as well as two rings. Nora can confirm that the rings are magic (as well as the trap). The chest and its contents weigh about forty pounds.
The group can poke around the cave some more without the bear around, but eventually come to the conclusion that they have seen what there is to see here. Now the question is whether they want to wait for the bear, head back to Drakesmeade with the treasure, or explore elsewhere.
Spencer Holloway Nadia Silvershield AC 19/13/15 HP 11/11 d8+1=3 ; Tuesday October 17th, 2023 7:27:32 PM
After seeing the chest is not only trapped, she will cast cure light on Aydi for 3 as she felt responsible for the fact he was splashed. She did help with the moving, and didn't find the trap. She would then also take a few gold of her share and replace under the alter, saying "While it may seem strange, it seems unbalanced to leave nothing behind. We should leave some in thanks for nothing worse happening. I will say we should mark this as a sacred grove for visiting though."
Privately Nadia marks it as a location for her to use later as a natural retreat for the druidic worship of Fhorge, as perhaps she will survive long enough to retire to this temple and care for it proper.
For the group, she helps move it back and helps clean the area up, making it cleaner and helping to rebless the air as best a druid can.
StephenT - Aydi Alzila -- AC 16/13/13 -- CMD 14 -- HP 20/23 d20+8=21 ; d20+6=15 ; d20+6=25 ; Wednesday October 18th, 2023 3:44:47 PM
Aydi will mumble under his breath. "Damn Magic Traps." He will then thank Nadia for the quick healing. He will then grab a gold piece from his pocket and put it with the pile that was left by Nadia and shrug. "I figured since their was a lesson there I should pay whoever left that trap something." He will also quietly make a prayer to any god that is listening a thank you for the items that were found and that there were no major injuries.
He will then suggest that they make a quick trip back to the stronghold to store the items that were found. Also he will look around and see if anyone in the group can identify the magic items. He will also do a quick appraisal of them and a quick perception of any markings on the items coin or items that can tell where they came from. He will also do a knowledge local check if any markings are seen.
OOC Perception 21 Appraise 15 Knowledge Local 25
MM - Eleonora Deepmine -- AC 17/13/14 -- CMD 12 -- HP 19/19 d8+1=3 ; Wednesday October 18th, 2023 5:10:56 PM
Nora comes to look at the stash they found under the altar. "Taking things from a temple would feel wrong, but this is a weird place. The altar came from somewhere else, and the whole place is abandoned so it doesn't feel like a temple. And besides, it is for things that are used in the temple. Rings and coins just stashed and forgotten are not doing any good to anybody, But let's make sure whatever we use them that it is a good purpose", she discusses the cache.
She notices Nadia healing Aydi, and comes to help. "Sorry, I didn't see you get hurt. Let me add some of Flower's, here Pieni parannus!." she says, touches Aydi and the wound closes more.
---------------- OOC: Cure light wounds on Aydi (cleric prepared)
Hamlin Vashtel -- AC 13/13/10 -- CMD 13 -- HP 13/13 Wednesday October 18th, 2023 5:45:18 PM
Hamlin looks in the cave at the bit of yelling and the his allies' yell of pain. " everyone okay here? Wow you found some gold and so forth. Looks like this really was worth the effort after all. We best make haste. No sign of the bear but we may not be so lucky for long"
Dominik - Aymar Shakhtar -- AC 17/13/14 -- CMD 17 -- HP 21/21 d20+6=26 ; d20+6=20 ; Wednesday October 18th, 2023 6:22:36 PM
Once the party is a safe distance away, he will examine the rings.
{Spellcraft for Ring 1 - 26 (Natural 20!)} {Spellcraft for Ring 2 - 20}
Jess- Fritjof -- AC 15/15/13 -- CMD 19 -- HP 23/23 Wednesday October 18th, 2023 6:35:47 PM
Frit offers to carry the chest back to the stronghold, shifting his pack and hefting the chest up onto his shoulder, his bicep and back muscles straining slightly from the effort. "So long as its alright w-w-w-- so long as you're all okay with it. I know you don't know me that well. Don't want to overstep."
He puts the chest down outside so that Hamlin and Aymar can take a look at it, hoisting back up for the walk back once the party is ready to move out.
OOC: Frit is current carry a light load is 49 lb. Another ~40 lb will just move him into a medium load (87 to 173 lbs).
Nadia cures Aydi some. She leaves behind some of her share, not feeling right about leaving nothing behind. Privately she considers what the site might become.
Aydi thanks Nadia and leaves behind some gold himself. He suggests they go back to the stronghold, asks whether folks can identify the magic items, and appraises the items.
Nora observes that this does not feel like a temple to her, but feels they should put their finds to good purpose. She cures Aydi some more.
Hamlin looks in to see what's going on, and lets everyone know there's no sign of the bear yet.
Aymar examines the rings once they are safely away.
Frit offers to carry the chest back to the stronghold. It is not a heavy enough load to slow him.
Ian and Kaida are quiet.
The group returns to the stronghold with their find, and sets about figuring out what they can. Aydi finds that the coins are too old for his local knowledge to place them, which means they might be worth more to a collector. For instance, some were electrum, not currently in circulation. He guesses the value of the lot to be at least 1,000 gold pieces. With some help from the spellcasters, Aymar finds the rings are black dragonbone rings -- one is definitely a +3 ring of protection, and he's pretty sure the other is, too. As a group, the others confirm these findings.
As the group is talking over what they have found, Thaeden approaches. "I understand you've been exploring outside the stronghold. I trust your explorations have been fruitful. I think we need to move forward with this project swiftly. The sooner we establish a secure farm, the better. Have you found a suitable location yet -- can we work with one of the sites you've discovered so far?"
As he speaks, you understand that Thaeden has his reputation on the line here. Not only is he looking for an answer, but one he can present to the council successfully.
Spencer Holloway Nadia Silvershield AC 19/13/15 HP 11/11 Wednesday October 18th, 2023 11:44:24 PM
Nadia speaks up a bit, seeing no need to not inform him of their moderate success and see if he knew anything about the temple of sorts they did find.
" We found some old coins buried under what seems a long abandoned temple, any idea on that was? I feel it can be a druidic temple to Fhorge, so we have some good areas to go to later. But for now we may need another trip out to properly rule everything out. We want a smart venture, well planned like a proper mine yes?"
StephenT - Aydi Alzila -- AC 16/13/13 -- CMD 14 -- HP 20/23 Thursday October 19th, 2023 2:32:26 PM
Aydi will speak up and state. "I know a lot is riding on this. You were one that put this task upon us. We will not fail you. We can take one of the locations off the list for it would be to hard to move in and out. Our second location has its pros, but we just found out that there is more going on there then just being a simple cave. Are plan is to go to the last to suggested sites in the coming days after we get a better look we will know for sure where we will set up the outpost. I know haste is important, but if we do not pick what is best everyone will fail. I do not mean any disrespect I just know we need time and we will be out as soon as Marnish can show us to the ravine and plateau we will leave. We might have to stay out a night to see if it is suitable for our needs as well.
Hamlin Vashtel -- AC 13/13/10 -- CMD 13 -- HP 13/13 Thursday October 19th, 2023 7:10:43 PM
Hamlin nods decisively and says to Thaeden. " This cave is a good spot however if you are willing to give us one day we will do a full tour of the other sites of interest and give you an answer post haste. In fact I think we can leave for one of them right now."
Dominik - Aymar Shakhtar -- AC 17/13/14 -- CMD 17 -- HP 21/21 Thursday October 19th, 2023 7:56:34 PM
Aymar is enamored by the rings, "I haven't seen something this intricate in a few decades. I would very much like to have one, if its ok with everyone?" A glint can be seen in his eye as he admires the piece.
Jess- Fritjof -- AC 15/15/13 -- CMD 19 -- HP 23/23 Thursday October 19th, 2023 8:08:01 PM
Frit hangs back during this conversation with Thaeden and doesn’t contribute. But he nods at Hamlin’s suggestion that they head out, indicating that he’s ready and willing to go as well.
StephenT - Aydi Alzila -- AC 16/13/13 -- CMD 14 -- HP 23/23 Thursday October 19th, 2023 9:23:01 PM
OOC just need to update my HP
Nadia tells Thaeden they found an abandoned temple.
Aydi argues that they need to look at other locations. He suggests they need to go out with Marnish now.
Hamlin says the cave is good, but he would like to look at other locations.
Aymar admires the rings. He asks if he can have one.
Frit does not contribute to the conversation, but is ready to go out again.
Kaida, Ian, and Nora listen to the others.
Thaeden regards the adventurers with a mix of anticipation and concern. He leans in slightly, his voice bearing the weight of the situation as he speaks, "I appreciate your thoroughness, but we need to make a decision soon. Can you tell me definitively whether any of the locations you've explored are suitable for the farm?" His words are a gentle yet firm reminder of the need for a decision.
StephenT - Aydi Alzila -- AC 16/13/13 -- CMD 14 -- HP 23/23 Thursday October 19th, 2023 10:50:11 PM "Of the places we have seen the only one that could be an option I think would be the cave. Only because of the proximity to the stronghold. The problem is the not so cuddly bear that calls it home. The other location os to treacherous to get in and out of. If there were an attack we would all be like fish in a barrel." Aydi speaks up.
OOC: Did Aydi learn anymore when he was checking the perimeter at each site besides what was said?
Spencer Holloway Nadia Silvershield AC 19/13/15 HP 11/11 Thursday October 19th, 2023 11:53:47 PM "I think we best explore the final option, otherwise the best was perhaps the cave with the bear, though only due to being close."
RobC - Kaida Shadowplay -- AC 13/13/11 -- CMD 11 -- HP 17/17 Friday October 20th, 2023 3:41:54 AM
Kaida adds to Aydi "I agree. If a peaceful arrangement can be made with the bear - either by luring it away, negotiating with it, or just sealing the entrance up a little bit, then it would be a very good spot. Nice and close, easy to defend, safe to travel to, and some sleeping nooks are already carved in."
She pauses a moment "Is there any chance the land there is blessed by Fhorge? There was that altar to the old ones. If the land has been blessed by Him or under his protection, then that could also be a good sign"
Jason Whited - Ian Shadowcrest -- AC 17/14/14 -- CMD 14 -- HP 22/22 Friday October 20th, 2023 7:58:12 AM "Gives us a chance to rest then we be moving on to the plateau." Ian says to Thaeden. He then turns to the rest of the party and says "We need to be thinkin on how to split the items from the alter. Me be suggesting that the coin be split even amongst us. As for them their rings I leave it up to the party. Do we give the extra protections to those who have less or do we give to those who are in the front?"
Jess- Fritjof -- AC 15/15/13 -- CMD 19 -- HP 23/23 Friday October 20th, 2023 2:46:57 PM
Frit clears his throat and glances nervously about before speaking. "B-b-begging your pardon, sir. I'm Frit. I trained at the monastery in Plateau. And my m---master there, Master Thrissa, she taught me how to make tea. Ceremonial tea. And the thing is, you have to let the leaves steep, or the tea is too weak to do anyone any good--and your liable to burn your tongue on it. These seem like good folks, and from what I've seen, they're working in your best interests. Seems worth it to give them an extra day or two to steep and make sure its done right."
In response to Ian, Frit will say, "Don't feel right taking the treasure. I haven't done much of anything to help you. And you've already give me a place to sleep, which is more than gggg---generous."
Hamlin Vashtel -- AC 13/13/10 -- CMD 13 -- HP 13/13 Friday October 20th, 2023 4:27:51 PM
Hamlin considers and tells thaeden. "The cave is the only one but we will have to kill or scare away the bear " To the rest of the party. "Well a protective ring should go to people who are engaging in melee so I will pass in the hopes of future treasure. On a side note I do believe we should be off to look at the ravine and plateu. We are on a bit of a time limit and Thaeden deserves an answer" Hamlin will then try to usher the party out the cave and onto their next destination.
StephenT - Aydi Alzila -- AC 16/13/13 -- CMD 14 -- HP 23/23 Friday October 20th, 2023 4:32:13 PM
Once the group is alone Aydi will speak up and ask how does the group want to split up the Loot. He does eye one of the rings knowing they are probably the highest valued items as well as probably the most useful. "I wonder why all of these were left in the cave? Are they cursed?" For some reason, he starts to play with his broken dagger that he keeps on him. "Well if they are I guess there is a quick way to find out. If I am fine I will toss it back in if it is well......" Aydi slips one of the rings on.
StephenT - Aydi Alzila -- AC 16/13/13 -- CMD 14 -- HP 23/23 Friday October 20th, 2023 4:44:33 PM
OOC: If anyone wants to do a sense motive on Aydi
Highlight to display spoiler: { Aydi is really just letting himself be a sacrificial lamb if they are cursed. He just wants to make sure everyone is safe before we start to use them. }
Dominik - Aymar Shakhtar -- AC 17/13/14 -- CMD 17 -- HP 21/21 Friday October 20th, 2023 7:18:01 PM
Aymar will eye Aydi and the ring curiously but he trusts him.
As far as wear to go, I think we should head out as soon as possible. "We should want to establish solid foundations before the weather becomes a deterrent.", Aymar says in support of Hamlin's ambitions.
MM - Eleonora Deepmine -- AC 17/13/14 -- CMD 12 -- HP 19/19 Friday October 20th, 2023 7:30:22 PM
Nora tries to think about the areas. "I kind of like the closest one. At least it is close, so if things get bad we can fall back or call help easier and save at least something."
"I try to keep back with my crossbow, so anyone who gets closer can have the rings, for my part."
Aydi says the cave could be an option, but the ravine could not. When the group discusses loot distribution, Aydi puts on one of the rings.
Nadia wants to explore further, although the cave might work.
Kaida agrees the cave is an option -- close, safe, and with sleeping nooks (at least for folks Kaida-sized). She wonders if Fhorge protects the cave.
Ian wants to see the plateau. He also suggests dividing the treasure they've found.
Frit tells a story explaining why they should explore more. Frit doesn't feel right about taking treasure.
Hamlin tells Thaeden the cave is suitable, once the bear is dealt with. But he also favors checking the canyon and plateau.
Aymar watches Aydi. He thinks they should head out as soon as they can.
Nora kind of likes the cave as a site; it's close, and they could get help if things go bad. She makes no claim on the rings.
Thaeden listens and says, "You tell me you've found a site that's good enough but want to go looking for a better one. . . Well, we knew you were adventurers, so I guess that's to be expected. Another couple of days won't make a difference in the long run, so I'll make Marnish available in the morning." He seems to think the party isn't exactly practical, though. Nevertheless, he changes the subject. "Fritjof, correct? Yes, your master provided a letter of reference. Have you ever tried our mushroom tea?" He continues on the subject -- Drakesmeade's mushroom tea is a unique brew. It carries the earthy essence of the underground realm, featuring a deep, rich taste that's reminiscent of damp soil and forest mushrooms. It has a slightly nutty undertone, balanced by a subtle sweetness that lingers. (The rest of the group has been here long enough to tell Frit later that few dwarves drink the mushroom tea -- it is not nearly as popular as the stronghold's ale.)
The group has another chance to work out treasure that night. In the morning, Marnish finds them at breakfast. He's been told to lead them to the remaining sites, and warned that they may be inclined to stay out overnight. "I've been told you might, but I strongly advise against it," he says.
He takes them to the canyon. The narrow canyon entrance is flanked by towering rock walls, its ground covered in a mix of gravel and sandy soil, with patches of scrubby vegetation clinging to the edges. Unlike the ravine, there is an entrance to the canyon, although it is narrow at only ten feet wide. The canyon varies in width, up to a hundred feet. The walls are fifty feet high to hundreds of feet high.
As they explore the canyon, everyone needs to make a perception check and provide the results.
- DM SteveM & Cayzle Saturday October 21st, 2023 1:12:22 PM Oops. . . Forgot to mention:
Aydi has no problem taking off the ring.
StephenT - Aydi Alzila -- AC 16/13/13 -- CMD 14 -- HP 23/23 d20+8=19 ; Saturday October 21st, 2023 2:09:30 PM
Once the meeting with Thaeden was finished. That evening the Aydi will take off the ring. "It looks like there was no curse. I know I just took it off but I would like to ask to be one of the 2 to get the ring. I am best being up in the fight when I have an ally across from me. So if no one has any objections I would like to use it."
Aydi will take the rest of the night getting ready for the next day's trip.
When the group gets to the Canyon Aydi will range ahead a bit a see what the area is like.
OOC: Perception 19
Jess- Fritjof -- AC 15/15/13 -- CMD 19 -- HP 23/23 Saturday October 21st, 2023 4:43:39 PM
Frit asks Thaeden lots of questions about the mushroom tea. What temperature water is best? How long do the mushroom steep? Where are the mushrooms grown? Are any special techniques used to harvest the mushrooms? It is undoubtedly the most that the group has ever heard him speak.
After the meeting, he tells the group that he is going to visit a tea shop that Thaeden recommended. He asks if anyone would like to come along, but is fine going for a cup by himself if no one wishes to join him.
That night he mediates before going to bed, and in the morning he goes through his work out and meditation routine at dawn so that he is ready to leave when the group heads out.
StephenT - Aydi Alzila -- AC 16/13/13 -- CMD 14 -- HP 23/23 Saturday October 21st, 2023 4:46:35 PM
Aydi will Join Frit for tea.
StephenT - Aydi Alzila -- AC 16/13/13 -- CMD 14 -- HP 23/23 Saturday October 21st, 2023 4:56:57 PM
He will also just spend sometime talking with Frit learning a bit more about him. After they have some tea together he see if he would like to just spar a bit with Aydi before they leave.
Jess- Fritjof -- AC 15/15/13 -- CMD 19 -- HP 23/23 Saturday October 21st, 2023 6:08:36 PM
While they are having tea, Frit tells Aydi. "Master Thrissa, she's a half-elf, too, sir. I was alone in the world for a long w-w-w-while and she was the first person to be nice to me. While not nice, really. She's old and cranky and has never hesitated to chew me out when I deserve it. Which was pretty often when I was younger. But she's always been kind to me. She saw me when know one else did, and took an interest when know one else would." He looks down into his cup, his lips curving up, and it might be the first time he's smiled since you met him. "She would love this tea."
After tea, he takes Aydi up on a spar before he mediates in the evening, and he asks Aydi if he wants to join him for a run and some training in the morning.
StephenT - Aydi Alzila -- AC 16/13/13 -- CMD 14 -- HP 23/23 Sunday October 22nd, 2023 8:41:00 AM "It is hard being alone. I understand that too well I seem to be with people over and over that I know nothing about. I might as well have stayed in my village. I at least knew the people that would not talk to me. I have been on my own in a crowd for too long. With this group it is the first time I can be who I truly am. I have done thing in the past that I am not proud of and I believe I deserve many of the scars I have received. If it put me where I am now that I feel like I am in a group that is like an adoptive family. I am glad you found someone that would be there for you. I know if you stay with us I believe we would be there for you too like the rest of the group has been there for me. In the morning I would gladly to join you in morning training. Maybe we can work on a way to help us flank what we are ub against." Aydi says to Frit.
Spencer Holloway Nadia Silvershield AC 19/13/15 HP 11/11 d20+12=16 ; Sunday October 22nd, 2023 3:03:18 PM
[ooc] perception of 16 [ooc]
Nadia and Stone both seem to be at peace with the issues brought forward by Thaeden, and does join for tea, because that was what seemed the smart idea. And tea was good for the soul per what she knew of other druids.
She does mention "We should take some with us, if nothing else to remind us if our new home as we travel. I think the canyon is next, and I am excited it. It may be the best spot."
Her words seemed a bit hollow though as they get there, as the area seemed slightly dead, but as she thinks more on it, that may be a good thing. Not good soil means nothing else will compete with them for it.
"We may pick here. With no competition it makes it safer than we think. Also, did we ever figure out both rings or just one?"
MM - Eleonora Deepmine -- AC 17/13/14 -- CMD 12 -- HP 19/19 d20+6=16 ; Sunday October 22nd, 2023 7:07:58 PM
Nora listens to the stories Fritjof tells with interest, but lets Aydi do the talking.
Next day, when they reach the canyon, she looks around, not completely convinced. "If we would be building a fortress, the narrow entrance looks really good. But for anything else, it's a bit rocky? Not much growing here", she says.
---- OOC: Keeping the previous spell choices. Perception 16
RobC - Kaida Shadowplay -- AC 13/13/11 -- CMD 11 -- HP 17/17 d20+2=15 ; Monday October 23rd, 2023 12:35:33 AM
Kaida looks about. It took a hike to get to this place, and that makes her a little unsure about it being a possible location to use. 100ft high walls will make it challenging to get out of should the entrances get blocked, and she's not much of a climber.
Kaida is happy for someone else to claim the rings. She assumes that means she'll get a slightly bigger cut of the coins that were found.
----------- Perception: 15
Jess- Fritjof -- AC 15/15/13 -- CMD 19 -- HP 23/23 d20+8=11 ; Monday October 23rd, 2023 4:51:01 AM OOC - Oops, forgot this: Perception: 11
Spencer Holloway Nadia Silvershield AC 19/13/15 HP 11/11 Monday October 23rd, 2023 3:45:06 PM " If we start as a fortress the clan may be more willing to come out and help firs though, would your people not be the same way Nora?"
Dominik - Aymar Shakhtar -- AC 17/13/14 -- CMD 17 -- HP 21/21 d20+2=5 ; Monday October 23rd, 2023 8:51:00 PM
Aymar claims one of the rings, if there are no objections, forgoing any of the coins.
Aymar is lost in the expansiveness of the cave. {Perception 5}
Aydi and Aymar wear the magic rings, at least for the present.
Frit learns more about the dwarven tea (along with others in the group), and in the morning, he and Aydi chat during training and then on the way to the canyon.
The party enters the canyon and explores. It has but one entrance. It is a quarter mile long and flanked by mountains. It is also infested with venomous snakes.
Nadia, Nora, Aydi, and Kaida all are careful and see snakes as they cross their paths.
Less watchful, Ian steps on a snake, Hamlin kicks one, and Frit simply walks too close. All three are attacked by snakes that strike and then move away. With the advantage of surprise, the snakes find these three flat-footed, and they bite deep.
Ian, take 1 point of damage and make a poison (fortitude) save vs DC13. Hamlin, take 3 points of damage and make a poison (fortitude) save vs DC13. Frit, take 1 point of damage and make a poison (fortitude) save vs DC13.
With the number of snakes all around, it would be wise to remain watchful.
- DM SteveM & Cayzle d20+2=22 ; d20+2=20 ; 2d4-2=4 ; Monday October 23rd, 2023 11:06:00 PM
Late Add! Aymar also did not see his snake!
It attacks, hits AC 22 with a nat 20, new fancy ring or no! Follow up to the crit threat hits AC20, which I think is exactly what is needed! This super snake inflicts 4 damage and forces a poison (fortitude) save vs DC13.
StephenT - Aydi Alzila -- AC 19/16/16 -- CMD 18 -- HP 23/23 d20+8=24 ; d20+12=32 ; Monday October 23rd, 2023 11:11:06 PM
Aydi will continue to take the lead and scout ahead.
Perception 24 Stealth 32
RobC - Kaida Shadowplay -- AC 13/13/11 -- CMD 11 -- HP 17/17 d20=15 ; Monday October 23rd, 2023 11:30:56 PM "Watch out for the..." Kaida reaches to grab Frit's shoulder, but is too late.
The bites look a little nasty. Kaida is ready to render first aid to any who might need it.
She is glad that someonen like Aydi is in the lead, as his eyes are far more perceptive than hers.
-------------- Heal check to provide First Aid to someone to treat poison vs DC13: 15=Pass to give someone a +4 competence bonus on a saving throw against the poison
Spencer Holloway Nadia Silvershield AC 19/13/15 HP 11/11 d20+10=27 ; Tuesday October 24th, 2023 1:53:12 AM Survival check of 27 to assist anyone with the poison maybe?
Nadia also tries her best to avoid the snakes, and even has Stone go and hunt a few down, just to help clear the area. Snakes or not, this was a heavily defensive position, an the dwarf in her knew it would work. The druid in her did not agree, but that wasn't the point really.
"Stone is hard to change my friends. But this area seems defensive, and they should be able to respect the wisdom in picking a defensive spot. How far would we be say from the temple we found and that valley? We could base here in defense, and expand some stuff out to the other areas later."
Jason Whited - Ian Shadowcrest -- AC 17/14/14 -- CMD 14 -- HP 22/22 d20+6=16 ; d20+7=8 ; Tuesday October 24th, 2023 8:28:05 AM
Ian curses the snakes and begins to pay attention. Fort 16 Perception 8 (I guess he is too distracted)
Jess- Fritjof -- AC 15/15/13 -- CMD 19 -- HP 22/23 d20+5=20 ; d20+8=10 ; Tuesday October 24th, 2023 8:52:33 AM
Frit lets out a grunt, more of surprise than of pain, as the snake sinks its fangs into the skin of this foot that his sandal leaves exposed.
"Thank you, ma'am. But I think I'm alright," he says to Kaida.
He tries to pay more attention.
Fort 20 Perception 10
Hamlin Vashtel -- AC 13/13/10 -- CMD 13 -- HP 13/13 d20=13 ; Tuesday October 24th, 2023 5:19:44 PM
Roll fort =19
Hamlin hops up and down in pain and let's out a couple of flavorful curses. "Ugh what are the chances we would stumble into a nest of snakes!!. What terrible luck" Ooc: didn't we already explore the canyon at night with the firebeetles. Is there a second canyon or is this the ravine?"
Dominik - Aymar Shakhtar -- AC 20/16/14 -- CMD 20 -- HP 17/21 (Condition: Poisioned) d20+6=12 ; d20+2=19 ; Tuesday October 24th, 2023 6:09:02 PM
The snake bites deep and keeps a tight grip. Aymar rips off the snake causing the gash to deepen. He feels sick and goes to lay down, thankfully in a safe area away from danger.
MM - Eleonora Deepmine -- AC 17/13/14 -- CMD 12 -- HP 19/19 d6=6 ; Tuesday October 24th, 2023 9:15:42 PM "Sorry that I couldn't warn you fast enough. Here, let Flower help you a bit" Nora says and calls a wave of healing energy all around her.
------------------ OOC: Channel energy 6 pts to all
StephenT - Aydi Alzila -- AC 19/16/16 -- CMD 18 -- HP 23/23 Tuesday October 24th, 2023 10:29:19 PM
Aydi comes back from scouting out and sees a few people injured from snake bites. He runs back annoyed with himself. "I am sorry that I did not warn you I was focused on other dangers." Aydi Says.
[OOC: Note that we are not in combat rounds. I’m abstracting and condensing into one post the events that occur over the span of ten minutes or an hour of exploring the canyon. Assume a given snake strikes and then slithers off. Feel free to attack and maybe kill a snake if you like; the number of snakes is not appreciably altered by that.]
[OOC: The ravine had the fire beetles. It had no entrance and you had to climb down into it. This canyon here is bigger, has an entrance into which you can walk, and is snake infested.]
Aydi scouts ahead as the group fully explores the quarter-mile length of the canyon. He is alert and avoids the snakes.
Kaida is too busy planning poison antidotes to watch out for snakes! [OOC: No perception check means you stumble on a snake.] This one bites at Kaida and hits for one point of damage. Feel free to use your own +4 bonus on the DC13 Fort save vs poison.
Nadia is also thinking about survival checks and not focusing on being alert! She kicks one by accident, and it bites at her, hitting for 3 hp damage. Add a +2 to your DC13 Fort save vs poison due to your good survival check. [OOC: Saying you are avoiding snakes is not enough You have to make a Perception check every post! I’ve been nice to companions so far, but starting next round they need to make perception checks to avoid snakes too.]]
Ian makes his save but does not see the next snake before it strikes. This one bites for 4 hp damage, and another save is needed. DC13.
Frit resists the poison from last time and just barely notices another snake to avoid the danger this time.
Aymar takes two points of constitution damage and retreats out of the canyon.
Hamlin makes his save but does not bother to keep on looking for other snakes. He hops on a viper, and it strikes, inflicting 2 damage and forcing another DC13 fort save!
Nora cures her friends but is heedless of the snake danger. A snake snaps at her but misses.
As you are exploring, a curious event takes place. A huge wave of tiny mammals -- lemmings of some kind -- sweep into the canyon and down. The snakes have a feast!
You have explored the canyon. You find snakes everywhere, and you see snake holes not only here and there, but in the walls of the canyon too. You find flat areas that would be great for fields. You find a few fresh water springs. You suspect that in the rainy season the floor of the canyon may flood. You note that this canyon is about two miles from Drakesmeade, The bear cave and old altar are a short few hundred feet or so from Drakesmeade, as the dwarf tunnels.
Spencer Holloway Nadia Silvershield AC 19/13/15 HP 11/11 d20+12=13 ; d20+6=21 ; d20+7=9 ; Wednesday October 25th, 2023 2:02:48 AM " Damn snakes! Oooh as much as I love nature, I can not say I love every bit equally! A plague upon your head snake!" 13 for me, but a 21 for Stone. Plague these snakes! Also a fort save of 9 for that snake venom. She looks about even more careful to ensure no more snakes, and even directs Stone to do the same. The poison feels worse than she imagined though, but continues on. The valley however seems the best bet to her, even with these snakes and lemmings. Maybe something can be done to balance them out
StephenT - Aydi Alzila -- AC 19/16/16 -- CMD 18 -- HP 23/23 d20+8=18 ; Wednesday October 25th, 2023 5:55:45 AM "Well definitely a snake problem here. A good fireball would help clear out some of the issue. How is everyone handling the bites maybe we should get out of here and either go back or see the plateau. Aymar you are looking not the greatest right now what do you want to do? Aydi says.
OOC Perception 18
Jess- Fritjof -- AC 15/15/13 -- CMD 19 -- HP 22/23 d20+8=27 ; Wednesday October 25th, 2023 11:30:46 AM "The l-l-l---, the rodents explain why so many snakes have made a home here, I guess. But what caused them to rush through here? Anyone with more knowledge about the nature of this place have any ideas?"
Frit continues to keep an eye out for snakes, and after getting bit and nearly bit, he has a better idea of what to be on the look-out for. He will happily follow the group if they decide they want to leave the canyon, taking up the rear.
OOC Perception- 27
Hamlin Vashtel -- AC 13/13/10 -- CMD 13 -- HP 13/13 d20+6=22 ; d20=17 ; Wednesday October 25th, 2023 4:49:41 PM
Fort : 22 Perception:25
"I believe that with the distance of the other options and the snake infestation. We have one of two choices. We go with the Ravine and build a system to get down or we force the bear out and use the cave. The plateau is too far to make sense" I personally vote on turning the fire beetle ravine into our new place"
Dominik - Aymar Shakhtar -- AC 20/16/14 -- CMD 20 -- HP 13/17 (Condition: Poisioned) d20+6=8 ; d20+2=4 ; Wednesday October 25th, 2023 6:08:40 PM
Aymar feels sickly. He lays there, barely paying attention except to the pain.
{Fortitude 8} {Perception 4}
RobC - Kaida Shadowplay -- AC 13/13/11 -- CMD 11 -- HP 16/17 d20+2=16 ; Wednesday October 25th, 2023 6:39:43 PM "The snakes here are certainly a problem" Kaida uses her boot to shoo away the one that just bit her ankle. Fortunately it was only a baby so didn't do too much damage and was too young to poison her.
She retrieves a piece of cloth from her kit to make a tourniquet for Aymar
The bear cave is looking all the better to her. All they need to do is wait until the bear exits the cave, put a rock in front of the entrance, walk away, and return a week later when the bear will have peacefully moved on.
---------------- Fort Save vs DC13: 16=Pass! Use previous heal check on Aymar to give a +4 bonus on his poison save next round (if needed)
StephenT - Aydi Alzila -- AC 19/16/16 -- CMD 18 -- HP 23/23 Wednesday October 25th, 2023 7:42:11 PM "I think we are done here let's get Aymar back and see if we can get him healed up. If we have to carry him Frit will you give me a hand?" Aydi speaks up.
Aydi will whisper to Aymar, "We got you. I am sorry I did warn you. Do not worry I will not let that happen again. Hang on for now we will get you back"
Aydi will scout ahead and make sure the path is safe.
OOC Perception 18 (from the previous post of today)
Jess- Fritjof -- AC 15/15/13 -- CMD 19 -- HP 22/23 Wednesday October 25th, 2023 8:10:05 PM
Frit nods to Aydi and moves over to Aymar's side once Kaida is done tending to him. Aymar can use him for support while walking. Or, if necessary, Frit can carry him, though he'll need help with at least one of their packs.
OOC: Perception- 27 (from earlier today).
MM - Eleonora Deepmine -- AC 17/13/14 -- CMD 12 -- HP 19/19 Wednesday October 25th, 2023 8:15:21 PM
Nora
MM - Eleonora Deepmine -- AC 17/13/14 -- CMD 12 -- HP 19/19 d20+6=12 ; d20+6=24 ; Wednesday October 25th, 2023 8:25:10 PM
Nora looks around the canyon, thinking. "It's not that far, you could live at the stronghold and come here to tend your garden. If this floods often, it might be the reason why it looks fertile. Brings nice stuff for plants. It isn't that bad, apart from the" she jumps as she steps on something slithering "...snakes."
"Let's get out for now, and think a bit? I'll heal us again when we get to a safe spot."
-------------- OOC: First roll perception, second Fortitude.
By now, the party knows to be on super alert for snakes.
Nadia (and Stone) are careful and avoid snakes. They like the canyon, but see that the snake problem would need a fix.
Aydi is alert and avoids snakes too. He ponders a fireball to fight snakes, but that would hardly clear the quarter-mile-long canyon, and it might well sterilize the place if it could! He urges the group to depart, reunite with Aymar, and head home.
Frit wonders about the ecology of the place. He seems ready to leave.
Hamlin, dodging snakes, is ready to rule out this locale. The plateau is too far. Fire Beetle Ravine or Bear Cave?
Kaida is ready to leave the canyon and help Aymar, who has already left. She considers the cave to be the best spot.
Nora is not ready to make a decision, but wants to think on it.
Ian is quiet.
Aymar suffers from his poison. The group leaves the canyon and finds him. Frit and Kaida and others deliver first aid.
Outside the canyon, the sun has not yet reached its zenith. Your destination? Drakesnmeade? Plateau?
Spencer Holloway Nadia Silvershield AC 19/13/15 HP 11/11 Thursday October 26th, 2023 5:01:58 AM "We like the ravine, and the canyon, but feel both is too far for help. The cave works, but needs work and could bring Fhorge wrath on us. Or another deity. We do we not try perhaps for all three, but we start with the ravine? Then the canyon, and leaves the cave for last, at least until we know it will not bother any gods?"
Nadia offers up as a compromise, so everyone gets something of what they want, and no one is put out too much. And she could solve the snake issue dwarvenly, or humanely, whichever makes more sense.
Jason Whited - Ian Shadowcrest -- AC 17/14/14 -- CMD 14 -- HP 22/22 d20+6=7 ; Thursday October 26th, 2023 8:11:39 AM
Ian is reeling from the poison and does not have much to say. Fort 7
StephenT - Aydi Alzila -- AC 19/16/16 -- CMD 18 -- HP 23/23 Thursday October 26th, 2023 11:49:05 AM "Even though it is far I would like to see the plateau, but that will have to wait until tomorrow. I think we need to get Aymar and Ian back and see if we can get them the healing they need. It looks like the poison is a rough one. Maybe we can get some antidotes as well if we go back out. If no one has any complaints let's head back." Aydi speaks up.
StephenT - Aydi Alzila -- AC 19/16/16 -- CMD 18 -- HP 23/23 Thursday October 26th, 2023 1:11:50 PM "Ian do you need any help to get back?"
Jess- Fritjof -- AC 15/15/13 -- CMD 19 -- HP 22/23 Thursday October 26th, 2023 1:46:41 PM
Frit agrees with Aydi that it would be unwise to proceed to the plateau with the current condition of two of their members. They need to prioritize the wellbeing of group members. "Pushing your limits means knowing your limits."
He offers to help whomever needs it as they head out.
Jess- Fritjof -- AC 15/15/13 -- CMD 19 -- HP 22/23 Thursday October 26th, 2023 1:46:41 PM
Frit agrees with Aydi that it would be unwise to proceed to the plateau with the current condition of two of their members. They need to prioritize the wellbeing of group members. "Pushing your limits means knowing your limits."
He offers to help whomever needs it as they head out.
Hamlin Vashtel -- AC 13/13/10 -- CMD 13 -- HP 13/13 Thursday October 26th, 2023 6:16:53 PM
Hamlin limps and looks positively miserable . "Friends I see the answer as self evident. None of us wants to kill or displace animals and we can live in harmony with the fire beetles of the Ravine. The only barrier is that we need to build a safe way to get down into the ravine. We already know that the Plateau is too far to make sense. Thaeden needs an answer and by making him wait we look downright silly. I want everyone to vote on a location and majority wins. I respectfully tire of wandering around the countryside and would prefer to get down to the task of building up our chosen location"
Hamlin steps back and waits for the party to vote.
Dominik - Aymar Shakhtar -- AC 20/16/14 -- CMD 20 -- HP 13/17 (Condition: Poisioned) d20+6=21 ; Thursday October 26th, 2023 6:35:24 PM
Aymar looks worse for wear but he manages to get to his feet, with some help. "I am not in the mind to make a decision at the moment. I say we convene in the morning and do the vote then."
{Fortitude 21 - Finally manages to shake the poison.}
RobC - Kaida Shadowplay -- AC 13/13/11 -- CMD 11 -- HP 16/17 Thursday October 26th, 2023 8:14:16 PM
Kaida is still quite sure of her vote. "The cave. It's close to Drakesmeade, concealed, and easily defendable. I dare say the rest of the clan would be more accepting of it as well, and having a tunnel to the cave means a safe way to travel back-and-forth. I fear trying to start something new further away than the cave would be destined to fail given all the dangers of the Scab."
MM - Eleonora Deepmine -- AC 17/13/14 -- CMD 12 -- HP 19/19 Thursday October 26th, 2023 8:54:05 PM "I'm still very curious about the altar in the cave. Why was it there?" Nora wonders.
"Oh, but the place... ravine probably for now, it's closer and easier to get things working. The canyon is nice but needs anti-snaking and it's a bit further. Still, it might be better for growing things if it doesn't flood too much."
The party reaches a consensus: Better to head home, report in, not spend the night, and get healing for those with poison damage.
On the way back, you all discuss pros and cons.
At Drakesmeade, there is healing and safety. Thaeden is eager to hear your report. “And my father is eager as well. Will you want to travel out again, or do you think you have a recommendation?”
Garog is sad you did not bring him home a lemming. He is excited to show off the latest “tricks” the piglets can do. So far the main one seems to be following Garog around. The ARE pretty cute.
RobC - Kaida Shadowplay -- AC 13/13/11 -- CMD 11 -- HP 16/17 Thursday October 26th, 2023 11:29:04 PM
Kaida's first concern is the health of her friends and says to Thadean "Some of us got some nasty snake bites" she looks to Aymar "Perhaps it would be worth having someone look at the wounds to make sure the poison has run it's course and there's no lasting damage?"
Jason Whited - Ian Shadowcrest -- AC 17/14/14 -- CMD 14 -- HP 22/22 Friday October 27th, 2023 9:45:20 AM "Once me be recovered me be thinking we need to be seeing the plateau." Ian mumbles weakly.
Jess- Fritjof -- AC 15/15/13 -- CMD 19 -- HP 22/23 Friday October 27th, 2023 1:55:56 PM
Frit has not seen the ravine, so he abstains from the discussions about what to recommend to Thaeden. Instead, while the others recover and debate, he goes back to the tea shop they visited the day before. He purchases a pound of the mushroom tea, portioned into two half-pound bags. He looks for a place where he can post a package to Plateau City. If he can find one, he writes a letter to Master Thrissa, telling her that he arrived safely and that he found a good group of adventures here who seem willing to look out for him. He also includes instructions for to prepare the mushroom tea.
The other half a pound he takes back to their rooms and gives it to Nadia. "You m-m-m--. The other night you, uh, said you wanted some of the tea to bring with us, ma'am, so, um, here some is."
He asks Aydi if he'd want to spar again that night.
Hamlin Vashtel -- AC 13/13/10 -- CMD 13 -- HP 13/13 d8=8 ; Friday October 27th, 2023 4:41:19 PM
Hamlin heals his wound (10 healed) and soaks in the springs leaving the debate for the morning. He does however tally votes so far and has 2 for ravine and one for the cave. " We aren't at a majority yet so I hope you all spend the evening really thinking things over."
StephenT - Aydi Alzila -- AC 19/16/16 -- CMD 18 -- HP 23/23 Friday October 27th, 2023 5:00:09 PM
Aydi will gladly spar with Frit and suggest going to the springs afterwards. While there he will talk to Aymar. "I think we still need to see the plateau. I know it is far, but we need to see all of the options before we make a decision. I also think the other sites thay we do not choose might be helpful to use as relay outposts if ever we would get attacked we could have a warning system set up. What do you think?"
MM - Eleonora Deepmine -- AC 17/13/14 -- CMD 12 -- HP 19/19 d6=5 ; d6=4 ; d6=1 ; d6=3 ; d8+1=5 ; d8+1=3 ; d8+1=2 ; d8+1=3 ; d8+1=7 ; Friday October 27th, 2023 5:22:28 PM
Nora spends the evening trying to heal anyone still suffering from the poison.
"Well, it's quite far, but it would be nice to see. Maybe there's something surprising, like the altar was in the cave? I'm just worried that being so far from everyone else would make it unsafe."
Dominik - Aymar Shakhtar -- AC 20/16/14 -- CMD 20 -- HP 13/17 (Condition: Poisioned) Friday October 27th, 2023 7:50:00 PM
Aymar spends the night getting treatment and letting the poison work through his system.
Aymar agrees with Ian and Aydi, "The dwarves presented us 4 options, it would be prudent to inspect all of them before rendering a final suggestion."
- DM SteveM & Cayzle Saturday October 28th, 2023 8:00:30 AM
Kaida asks Thaeden for help, and he calls for Brother Woldbrow to be brought from Domi’s Sanctum. The cleric, aided by Nora, has everybody back up to snuff after a full day of healing and rest.
Ian wants to at least visit the plateau. Aydi agrees. Nora is plateau-curious too. Aymar thinks that all the sites mentioned by the dwarves deserve inspection.
But Hamlin seems to have already dismissed the plateau option and is tallying votes for the other sites.
Not feeling knowledgable enough to contribute to the location discussion, Frit discovers that the innkeeper will hold letters and small packages for delivery through the next gnome caravan that passes through. “Should be about once a month, weather willing,” says Kada, the owner. Frit makes some purchases and posts his tea to go back home. Later, Frit and Aydi spar.
Nadia is quiet.
Basically, those who were poisoned need a full day of rest. Everyone else has a day in Drakesmeade to do as you will. Any special prep for the next trip? Any other activities in which you are interested? Scribe a scroll? Brew a potion? Visit piglets? Explore a new part of Drakesmeade?
Spencer Holloway Nadia Silvershield AC 19/13/15 HP 11/11 Saturday October 28th, 2023 8:09:28 AM
Nadia will thank Frit for the tea and even offer to brew some in companionship for the task of the day. "The best tea is shared among friends and companions. We shall brew some later among our kin."
Afterwards, she goes and checks on the piglets, ensuring their general health and welfare. If everything is fine, she will then prepare for the visit to the plateau, and even ask around for how long it would take to dig a tunnel to a foreign place, roughly the same distance to the ravine.
After securing that information, she checks in on those resting, sharing the information from the piglets and the tunnel digging to them. She mentions to them that now they are wiser, it should be easier to spot the snakes.
Jess- Fritjof -- AC 15/15/13 -- CMD 19 -- HP 22/23 Saturday October 28th, 2023 12:36:58 PM "Yes, ma'am," Frit says to Nadia. "We did something like that at the monastery. It was nice. Made it feel like a home."
He wakes early, going for a run at dawn, strength training, yoga, and meditation. He'll welcome anyone who feels up to and wants to train with him. After training, he'll go to the hot springs to clean up and ease some of the ache in his muscles.
He isn't used to having his days so unstructured and doesn't have anything in particular do in town. He'll tag along with anyone who seems to want help or companionship. Otherwise, he just wanders around the town trying to get a feel of the place.
StephenT - Aydi Alzila -- AC 19/16/16 -- CMD 18 -- HP 23/23 Saturday October 28th, 2023 5:11:28 PM
Aydi will spend some time checking on his companions who are recovering. He will then spend sometime with Frit taking part in meditation and any training when that is done. He will ask Frit if he would like to help him repay the kindness the dwarves have given him. He will go to the Armorer and do some work no repairing any armor that needs to be done to help repay the kindness they gave teaching him their skills.
Jess- Fritjof -- AC 15/15/13 -- CMD 19 -- HP 22/23 Sunday October 29th, 2023 2:23:37 PM
Frit gratefully accepts Aydi's invitation. He doesn't know anything about crafting armor, but is eager to help Aydi and the other armorers any way he can, carrying, fetching, and cleaning as needed.
As they walk back from the armorer, Frit will say to Aydi in half-orc, Highlight to display spoiler: { "Thank you f--f-- Thank you for giving me something useful to do today. I am very glad to have met you, Aydi." }
Hamlin Vashtel -- AC 13/13/10 -- CMD 13 -- HP 13/13 d20+8=13 ; Sunday October 29th, 2023 3:21:33 PM
Hamlin just shrugs at the general ambivalence of the rest of the party. " Well I suppose there's no need to rush and scouting the area is pretty useful. Perhaps so as to not make this a complete waste I will engage in a bit of cartography as we travel so we can note landmarks that we have discovered and present an updated map to Thaeden as proof that we aren't just wasting time."
Hamlin waves and leaves the party to go to the library and look at the current maps of the surface. He will then endeavor to create his own with notable updates from the group's expeditions. Knowledge Geo: 13 to create a decent map. Hamlin will try to update this as the party travels across the surface. (Hopefully improving the quality as well)
MM - Eleonora Deepmine -- AC 17/13/14 -- CMD 12 -- HP 19/19 Sunday October 29th, 2023 7:07:10 PM
Nora prays Flower for the spells of the day, then goes for breakfast. She watches Fritjof return from the morning workout, while herself eating all the sugary foods she can find.
For the day's work, she goes looking for the oldest books she can find in the library, and the oldest songs anyone knows, to find any hint about the altar and worship of the Old Ones in ancient times. She also tries to find any writing resembling the one on the altar, comparing her copy of the altar writing to the library texts. -------------------- Still keeping the changed list with comprehend languages.
RobC - Kaida Shadowplay -- AC 13/13/11 -- CMD 11 -- HP 16/17 Sunday October 29th, 2023 7:59:57 PM
Kaida goes to check in on the other adventuring groups, specifically the new Rough & Tumblers / Native Sons team.
They aren't technically in competition with them anymore, but Kaida is a curious sort and it doesn't hurt to be friendly and foster friendships.
After that she goes in search of Nora. Kaida will try and occupy herself without distracting Nora too much.
StephenT - Aydi Alzila -- AC 19/16/16 -- CMD 18 -- HP 23/23 Monday October 30th, 2023 1:23:55 PM
Aydi will reply to Frit in Orcish Highlight to display spoiler: { "I am glad that that I could help, and I am glad to have met you too. Since we had a full days work done let's let the body recover in the baths and along the way we can check on the others some more." }
Dominik - Aymar Shakhtar -- AC 20/16/14 -- CMD 20 -- HP 13/17 (Condition: Poisioned) Monday October 30th, 2023 7:58:14 PM
Aymar will take the day to rest and recover. He will ask Aydi to bring him some books from the library or maybe something of interest from the stack that the other guy had brought in. "Preferably something about dragons, this ring has piqued my interest. If not, anything you think would be of interest." He will enjoy the company of Scout and any others that stop by.
Later that day, if he is feeling well enough, he will head to the hot springs.
StephenT - Aydi Alzila -- AC 19/16/16 -- CMD 18 -- HP 23/23 Monday October 30th, 2023 8:21:44 PM
Aydi after checking on Aymar he will grab a few books. "I was able to pick up a few books for you. The 1st one is the mating habits of elder dragons. The 2nd is history of scab during the 4th age. The last is the gods of the Wold."
StephenT - Aydi Alzila -- AC 19/16/16 -- CMD 18 -- HP 23/23 d20+6=8 ; Monday October 30th, 2023 9:40:05 PM
OOC Bluff check 8 to see if he can keep a straight face.
- DM SteveM & Cayzle Tuesday October 31st, 2023 12:11:52 AM
Nadia asks about tunnel building. Thaeden thinks for a little bit, and then says, “We could tunnel through the mountain to the bear cave. That is an elevated dig. But a dig to the ravine would need to traverse the water table. The tunnel would flood, and it would be very hard to dig. Not practical.
Frit explores and learns more about Drakesmeade. [OOC: Please consult the wiki for more.]
Aydi makes himself a part of the community, volunteering to work with his hands.
Kaida finds that the other team has been busy with the mundane task of patrolling, hunting, and foraging. They ran into a few monitor lizards, took one down and chased the others away. The skin will be good for crafting, though the meat needs a lot of seasoning. There may be sausage on the menu soon.
Hamlin does some research and prepares to create a better map as they travel tomorrow.
Nora researches the Old Ones. They were (and could still be) forces of chaos and evil. But Fhorge, though once one of them, is now their jailer and warden, making sure they do not cause trouble. You think that the ancient altar, once devoted to the Old Ones, including Fhorge, could be sanctified and dedicated solely to Fhorge. If desired.
Ian and Aymar rest.
The next day is a wet one, and there is a drizzle when you set out. A good two hours of cross-country travel over mostly trackless terrain brings you to the plateau.
The hillside plateau rises gently from the surrounding terrain; there are rocky outcroppings that frame the edges of the plateau. You have yet to climb up, but you could do so easily by taking ten. If you were in combat or danger, you would have to make a DC10 Climb check to go up or down.
Do you ascend? Any special prep for doing so? What will you do when you reach the top?
StephenT - Aydi Alzila -- AC 19/16/16 -- CMD 18 -- HP 23/23 d20=5 ; d20+12=26 ; d20+9=20 ; Tuesday October 31st, 2023 1:05:28 PM
Aydi will look to the others do a quick scouting of the perimeter of the plateau. After the check he will get ready to accend if no danger is seen.
OOC Straight D20 ignore was a bump when I was scrolling Stealth 26 Perception 19 Traps 20.
Jess- Fritjof -- AC 15/15/13 -- CMD 19 -- HP 22/23 d20+8=19 ; d20+8=26 ; Tuesday October 31st, 2023 1:26:22 PM
While Aydi is scouting, Frit asks the group if anyone will need help with the ascent. He'll assist anyone who needs it.
He is also keeping his eye out for danger as the group waits and prepares themselves.
OOC: Perception = 19 Climb, take 10 = 17 Ignore the second roll.
StephenT - Aydi Alzila -- AC 19/16/16 -- CMD 18 -- HP 23/23 Tuesday October 31st, 2023 2:00:51 PM
OOC: Take 10 Climb 15
Dominik - Aymar Shakhtar -- AC 20/16/14 -- CMD 20 -- HP 13/17 (Condition: Poisioned) d20+2=15 ; Tuesday October 31st, 2023 6:54:51 PM
Aymar waits for the scouting party to return with the go ahead. He will ascend to the top of the plateau. He will look for any evil aura's at the top.
MM - Eleonora Deepmine -- AC 17/13/14 -- CMD 12 -- HP 19/19 Tuesday October 31st, 2023 8:13:32 PM
Nora tries to follow the route her teammates took, on the climb route to the plateau. She grabs the same ledge they used, but doesn't move an inch when she tries to pull herself up. She starts giggling, then manages to say: "This is not going to work..."
She drops back to the ground, and looks at the rise, thinking aloud: "I'm not going to make it this way. But... maybe without the armor, and divine guidance?" She takes off her chain shirt, puts it into her pack, then takes another go at the climb route. She asks the guidance of Flower on every section of the path, and manages to get up.
"I did it!" she cries and jumps in joy. She looks back down, sees her pack, and asks apologetically: "Erm... could someone bring my pack up? Or lend a rope that I can pull it myself?"
----------------- OOC: Take ten climb with pack & armor: 6. Remove armor and pack, cast guidance on herself, take 10: 10, just barely.
StephenT - Aydi Alzila -- AC 19/16/16 -- CMD 18 -- HP 23/23 Tuesday October 31st, 2023 10:00:35 PM
Aydi will volunteer to go down and grab Nora's gear and bring it back.
The party ascends. Once atop the plateau, the scene is epic. The hillside plateau rises gently from the surrounding terrain, its soil rich and fertile. Wild grasses and patches of vibrant wildflowers dot the landscape, providing a colorful contrast to the rocky outcroppings that frame the edges of the plateau. The view from the top offers a sweeping panorama of the surrounding mountains and valleys.hillside plateau rises gently from the surrounding terrain, its soil rich and fertile. Wild grasses and patches of vibrant wildflowers dot the landscape, providing a colorful contrast to the rocky outcroppings that frame the edges of the plateau. The view from the top offers a sweeping panorama of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
Aydi and Frit, keen eyed and scouting around, find a herd of some dark-furred animals. Big as horses, but chubby as dumplings and with short legs and a wide flat tail, these creatures are about 100 ft away. They are busy at work, gnawing on trees, gathering plants, and walking for other errands.
They have not yet noticed you
Spencer Holloway Nadia Silvershield AC 19/13/15 HP 11/11 Tuesday October 31st, 2023 11:43:33 PM
Nadia, blind to the other group unless pointed out, will say the obvious. " This is the best spot."
Jess- Fritjof -- AC 15/15/13 -- CMD 19 -- HP 22/23 d20+8=21 ; Wednesday November 1st, 2023 11:17:35 AM
Since Aydi is helping Nora, Frit will help Kaida if she needs it.
When he gets to the top of the plateau, Frit exhales as he looks around at the scenic vista. "Wow. It's b-b-b-, it's really pretty," he says. He points to the herd of chubby, dark furred animals. "What are those?"
He continues to keep an eye out for any possible danger as he takes in the majestic view.
OOC Perception 21
StephenT - Aydi Alzila -- AC 19/16/16 -- CMD 18 -- HP 23/23 d20+8=11 ; Wednesday November 1st, 2023 2:32:38 PM
When it comes to the animals Aydi will just note what they are doing and talk.to Nadia to see if she knows what they are. He will then take a look at the plateau and if it could be easily defensible. "I think this would be a good place to set up camp. I know the distance is the issue as well as we do not know what happens at night here, but I think this is where we should set up camp. I think the other location we can set up as relay point and the cave if our furry friend would allow it as a secret entrance we could have to drakesmeade. I know that would be a lot to do for all parties involved. I still would think this would work if we could build a structure here with fortified walls as well as expand the building downward we could be able to really use this land right." Aydi chimes in.
Hamlin Vashtel -- AC 13/13/10 -- CMD 13 -- HP 13/13 Wednesday November 1st, 2023 5:35:09 PM
Hamlin looks around at the Plateau and sighs.
"It's perfect for farming and agriculture but it's too soon to build on it. Drakesmeade lacks the infrastructure to operate out this far. Everything would ride on our ability to make this work and we can expect little help willing to come out here. I love it as an aspirational goal but for now we should only note it. Perhaps we should just let Thaeden decide where we build. He knows better than us how much resources Drakesmeade is willing to commit to this. If they are willing to commit almost none then the cave or ravine is the best choice. If they are willing to make a big investment then here it is"
Hamlin Vashtel -- AC 13/13/10 -- CMD 13 -- HP 13/13 d20+8=11 ; Wednesday November 1st, 2023 5:37:48 PM
Knowledge nature on the animals. 11
RobC - Kaida Shadowplay -- AC 13/13/11 -- CMD 11 -- HP 16/17 d20=1 ; Wednesday November 1st, 2023 7:01:52 PM
Kaida gratefully accepts Frit's help. She grabs a tight hold of the back of his shirt with one hand, and uses the other to help climb. It's still an effort for the gnome. "Phew. Thanks Frit!" She takes a moment to gather her breath.
When he points them out, Kaida looks at the animals and hazards a guess as to what they might be. "Scab cows?". She really has no idea at all.
-------------- Knowl check to ID the animals: 1
MM - Eleonora Deepmine -- AC 17/13/14 -- CMD 12 -- HP 19/19 d20+1=8 ; Wednesday November 1st, 2023 7:14:06 PM "Thank you, Aydi" Nora says, takes her pack and gets back into her armor while looking around the area. "It is very pretty, but I do agree, it's quite far away. We would need a base here, and building a decent one takes time."
She watches the animals and hums to herselt: "Dog goes woof, cat goes meow, but what are those?", trying to remember lore about the animals.
-------------- OOC: Bardic knowledge 8
Dominik - Aymar Shakhtar -- AC 20/16/14 -- CMD 20 -- HP 13/17 (Condition: Poisioned) d20+2=22 ; Wednesday November 1st, 2023 7:54:40 PM
Aymar takes a look around once atop of the plateau. The plateau is everything he was hoping it would be. He quickly notices the animals and will point them out to the rest of the group. He will prepare to draw his sword, just in case, as he is unsure what these animals are.
The party looks over the area. It is verdant and fertile, a great place for agriculture. People wonder what those big animals might be. Only Hamlin has a maybe guess ... dire beavers? Or dire badgers? Giant woodchucks?
But with the party talking and no efforts at stealth being made, the creatures hear and see the heroes. The animals quickly shift from industrious and cute to fierce and territorial. They advance to about 60 ft distant, growling and showing their teeth.
They clearly do not appreciate your intrusion. They look ready to attack.
Jess- Fritjof -- AC 15/15/13 -- CMD 19 -- HP 23/23 d20+8=26 ; Thursday November 2nd, 2023 3:28:35 PM "Whatever they, um, are," he says. "They, uh, they don't l-look very happy to see us," Frit says.
He slowly backs toward where the rest of the group is, not taking his eyes off the hostile animals, counting them to see exactly what the party is dealing with (and what the odds will be) if it comes to a fight. He keeps himself between creatures and as much as the party as possible, just in case the beasts come any closer to them.
He readies himself to spring into action, whether that is to fight or flee.
[i] OOC Perception 26 [i]
Hamlin Vashtel -- AC 13/13/10 -- CMD 13 -- HP 13/13 Thursday November 2nd, 2023 5:22:25 PM
Hamlin moves slowly behind the melee characters and prepares to cast pox pustules on one if these beasties get closer than 30 feet.
" if anyone wants to convince these animals to stand down then now is the time. Otherwise a tactical retreat may be in order."
MM - Eleonora Deepmine -- AC 17/13/14 -- CMD 12 -- HP 19/19 Thursday November 2nd, 2023 6:09:15 PM
Nora looks at the animals, crossbow ready in hand. "Can you ask them to calm down?" she asks, looking at Nadia and Kaida.
She starts mumbling a prayer to Flower as she watches the animals.
--------------- OOC: Ready action to cast Bless if the animals clearly attack.
RobC - Kaida Shadowplay -- AC 13/13/11 -- CMD 11 -- HP 16/17 Thursday November 2nd, 2023 6:56:23 PM
Kaida uses her speak with animals ability in the hope of avoiding a fight.
"Hi there! Terribly sorry, we didn't realise this was your area. Sorry to have bothered you. Could we stay a little while or would you prefer us to leave?"
She tries to back up a few steps and not be on the front-line.
----------- Standard: Use Speak with Animals SLA
Dominik - Aymar Shakhtar -- AC 20/16/14 -- CMD 20 -- HP 13/17 (Condition: Poisioned) Thursday November 2nd, 2023 7:46:52 PM
Aymar will move to the fore of the group, keeping his sword sheathed but with his hand at the ready. He hopes that Kaida will be able to avoid conflict with the creatures.
StephenT - Aydi Alzila -- AC 19/16/16 -- CMD 18 -- HP 23/23 d20+8=13 ; Thursday November 2nd, 2023 7:46:53 PM
Aydi will get to a spot that would allow him the vantage point and prepare his crossbow if the others are not able to calm them down.
The party gets ready for a fight. The eight giant mammals stay about 60 ft away and do not trigger any attacks. Kaida talks to them and discovers that while they are herbivores, they are very defensive and aggressive, ready to chase off intruders, which means you guys. They want you to go away and leave them be. NOW!
Spencer Holloway Nadia Silvershield AC 19/13/15 HP 11/11 Thursday November 2nd, 2023 11:02:08 PM
Nadia calls to the group " Unless we want this area and fight, best we leave now." She clearly doesn't wish to harm animals they don't have to.
Jason Whited - Ian Shadowcrest -- AC 17/14/14 -- CMD 14 -- HP 22/22 Friday November 3rd, 2023 12:06:25 PM
Ian will ready his bow and wait to see if the creatures charge.
Jess- Fritjof -- AC 15/15/13 -- CMD 19 -- HP 23/23 Friday November 3rd, 2023 4:33:02 PM
Frit backs further away from the creatures. "I, um, have no interest in f-f-fighting these creatures. Not, uh, today, anyway. Not at all if we don't have to."
He is ready to leave the area and will help Kaida with the climb down. He noticed her struggling with the climb up (even with his assistance), so he'll see if she wants a ride to his back or shoulders.
Hamlin Vashtel -- AC 13/13/10 -- CMD 13 -- HP 13/13 d20=19 ; Friday November 3rd, 2023 4:34:09 PM
Hamlin nods decisively. " Well we should probably leave then at least for now." He will make to carefully climb down (19 climb check).
MM - Eleonora Deepmine -- AC 17/13/14 -- CMD 12 -- HP 19/19 Friday November 3rd, 2023 5:35:59 PM
Nora agrees with the others. "We know enough, let's leave."
She walks to the edge, looks down, then backs up again. "I know it should be safe, I practiced it, but still..." She breathes a couple of times, then runs to the edge and jumps off. On the air, she calls: "Untuvaputous!" and she floats gently down landing beside Hamlin.
"Oh dear! That was scary! But fun! Anyone else want to try? I have another one of the spells ready!" she shouts.
StephenT - Aydi Alzila -- AC 19/16/16 -- CMD 18 -- HP 23/23 d20+8=28 ; Friday November 3rd, 2023 6:25:22 PM
Aydi will look at Nora. Aydi states to Nora, "Looks like fun I would like to give it a whirl" and will Jump after she casts the spell. Then will head off snd check to see if they have any trouble.
OOC Perception Nat 20 for a 28
Dominik - Aymar Shakhtar -- AC 20/16/14 -- CMD 20 -- HP 13/17 (Condition: Poisioned) Friday November 3rd, 2023 8:31:31 PM
Aymar will keep himself between the party and the creatures, ready to draw his sword against any creature that becomes too aggressive. He will make sure that everyone is down safely before descending himself.
Once at the base of the plateau he will address the party, "It appears we have to make a decision. The ravine is the easiest but least ideal. The canyon would require a unique solution to be viable. The best locations, the cave and the plateau, would require us to fight for it. In theory, acquiring both locations would be preferable. I don't see how we can accomplish our goal without bloodshed."
If asked he will cast his vote for the Plateau, "If we are going to do this, we should shot for most viable option."
{OOC: How many of those creatures did we see?}
RobC - Kaida Shadowplay -- AC 13/13/11 -- CMD 11 -- HP 16/17 Friday November 3rd, 2023 8:52:30 PM
Kaida gives the creatures a wave as she backs away. "Of course. We'll be on our way" She looks to the others for help in safely climbing down, and is a little embarrassed to be the only one that needs it.
Once at the base she dusts off her hands and pants. "Relocating one bear without bloodshed won't be difficult, and we don't need to create a means to get in and out. Or up and down in this case."
----------------- Kaida can safely climb down if someone uses Aid Another
Nora uses magic to float off the plateau, and offers the same to others.
Aydi and Kaida accept magical help from Nora to float down.
Aymar waits for Ian to go down, and then carefully climbs down too.
This trip has given you some information, and Aymar suggests that it is time to talk about making a decision.
You head for home?
StephenT - Aydi Alzila -- AC 19/16/16 -- CMD 18 -- HP 23/23 Sunday November 5th, 2023 10:40:01 AM
Aymar will look up at the plateau. "I think here would be my pick if we were only to get one. It is defensible, and the land is fertile. If we can find a way to share or scare off our new friends up there. This should work. I think the cave could work for a small outpost, but our ability to grow would be hampered. It would allow us to fulfill the basic promise we have, but I do not think it would work in the long run. If it does not work out in the end we will end up giving any invader a back door entrance to Drakesmeade. That could end being much worse then trying to build a little ways away."
StephenT - Aydi Alzila -- AC 19/16/16 -- CMD 18 -- HP 23/23 d20+8=12 ; Sunday November 5th, 2023 10:43:20 AM
OOC:
Perception 12 on the number of Dire Beavers and where they are right now.
Hamlin Vashtel -- AC 13/13/10 -- CMD 13 -- HP 13/13 Sunday November 5th, 2023 3:54:41 PM
" I agree with Aydi we have been rather patient with animals at this point and so the ravine is the only choice that does not include violence of some kind. My vote remains the Ravine"
RobC - Kaida Shadowplay -- AC 13/13/11 -- CMD 11 -- HP 16/17 Sunday November 5th, 2023 6:48:12 PM "Are we looking to build an outpost? I thought just somewhere to raise a few pigs. We're still going to be living in Drakesmeade, right?"
Highlight to display spoiler: {The name of the game is Drakesmeade :)}
MM - Eleonora Deepmine -- AC 17/13/14 -- CMD 12 -- HP 19/19 Sunday November 5th, 2023 6:56:57 PM "Well, for looking ahead, if we want more people of the surface races to join, the stronghold might get crowded and food supply hard. So... ravine for pig raising and plateau for long-term plans later?"
Spencer Holloway Nadia Silvershield AC 19/13/15 HP 11/11 Monday November 6th, 2023 1:49:46 AM " Aye, the ravine gives us the best chance to help the settlement grow and the races mix. It is defensible for us dwarves, and open enough you taller people will not feel in-closed or crowded. That keeps us close by to help, and gives us an area to help work. For now we can stay in the city while the ravine is shored up defensively though."
Nadia also has an idea to look more into that idea of the insect queen, because that could pose an issue later down the line.
Jason Whited - Ian Shadowcrest -- AC 17/14/14 -- CMD 14 -- HP 22/22 Monday November 6th, 2023 8:15:58 AM
Ian just sits back and listens and wonders what will happen next.
Jess- Fritjof -- AC 15/15/13 -- CMD 19 -- HP 23/23 d20+8=16 ; Monday November 6th, 2023 10:36:28 AM
Frit hasn't seen the ravine, and so he doesn't feel like he can add much to the conversation. He listens to the others as they debate and keeps an eye out for any potential dangers.
OOC Perception 16
Dominik - Aymar Shakhtar -- AC 20/16/14 -- CMD 20 -- HP 13/17 (Condition: Poisioned) Monday November 6th, 2023 6:41:24 PM
Aymar relucantly agrees, "The ravine is as good of a place to start as any."
StephenT - Aydi Alzila -- AC 19/16/16 -- CMD 18 -- HP 23/23 Monday November 6th, 2023 9:49:37 PM
Aydi will look at the plateau and shrug. "It is only the beginning"
Hamlin Vashtel -- AC 13/13/10 -- CMD 13 -- HP 13/13 Monday November 6th, 2023 11:26:16 PM
"It's settled then. We head back and inform Thaeden of the decision. I'm sure he will be delighted to know we did arrive at a conclusion"
- DM SteveM & Cayzle Tuesday November 7th, 2023 6:15:02 AM
Aydi notes at least 8 huge mammals. Others may be around, but it is these 8 who confronted you. They back down as you retreat, happy to let you go.
The party debates the pros and cons of the locations explored on the trip back. Now that you have seen all four at firsthand, you feel that it is time for a decision. On the trip back, you hear sounds of wildlife.
If you make a perception or survival check (pick one) vs DC 15, then Highlight to display spoiler: {You see tracks of several very big lizard creatures}
At Drakesmeade, you send word to Thaeden that you would like to talk. In the morning, he meets you in private at the Jolly Miner. Before you make your pitch(es), he asks you to consider the following:
“What is your goal? Mine is to provide a source of fresh meat for the community.” “What defenses will you implement? If you are off on a mission, what will the defenses be then?” “What resources will you need?”
Feel very free to ask Thaeden questions about his and the other dwarves’ priorities and capabilities.
When you are ready to pitch a site, please make your argument, Roll diplomacy checks, and you will have to hit a secret DC to convince Thaeden. The highest check is the one used; others will be Aid Another rolls. If he is not convinced, you can then make a pitch for a different spot. You cannot pitch a site twice until all sites have been considered once. One pitch per posting day, please.
Spencer Holloway Nadia Silvershield AC 19/13/15 HP 11/11 d20=14 ; Tuesday November 7th, 2023 6:24:36 AM
[ooc] 14 to pick ravine [/ooc]
Nadia speaks up for herself and says "I favor the ravine. It is defensive, can hold us and some livestock easy, and most importantly we all mostly like it. It gives some help if needed, but more importantly it can be protected from most anything. Defenses will focus on the top really, we can clear anything on the ground. The resources needed though will be for those smarter of the group."
StephenT - Aydi Alzila -- AC 19/16/16 -- CMD 18 -- HP 23/23 d20+8=17 ; d20+6=20 ; Tuesday November 7th, 2023 4:33:23 PM
Prior to getting back Aydi will point out large lizard tracks
" Thaeden Sir. All four of the locations have their pros and cons. What do you want to see with this endeavor? I know the ravine works for a starting point has water easily accessible some natural defenses and we did not have any aggressive attacks when we were there, but I could see us out grow the location. If you want a starting block it works, but if you want only one location, there are issues I see. One we can easily be attacked from above. So with that we would need to build walls with murder holes for archers around the perimeter of the encampment. We will also need to figure out how to protect from flooding. If we can figure out those it will work. I know I bring up the negative side of the location, but if you are to make a decision you need to have all the information." Aydi speaks up.
OOC Diplomacy 20 Perception 17
Jess- Fritjof -- AC 15/15/13 -- CMD 19 -- HP 23/23 d20+8=11 ; Tuesday November 7th, 2023 5:48:41 PM
Frit does not notice the large lizard tracks until Aydi points them out. He is too distracted thinking about the debate over what to recommend to Thaeden and wishes that he had more to contribute.
Frit is mostly quiet during the meeting with Thaeden; as before, he mostly listens to what the other's have to say about the decision. He does, though, make a black tea, spiced with cardamon and ginger, for everyone, taking a scoop of leaves from a pouch embroidered with the gavel and sun symbol of Pantheon.
[i] OOC Perception 11 No diplomacy check from Frit. [i]
RobC - Kaida Shadowplay -- AC 13/13/11 -- CMD 11 -- HP 16/17 Tuesday November 7th, 2023 8:00:36 PM
Kaida gratefully accepts the tea from Frit. She takes a deep sniff and then holds the cup out again "I don't suppose you have any sugar or honey?" Kaida has a sweet tooth, so the sweeter the better! If not, she's sure the Jolly Minter does, so looks about to find some for herself.
She has concerns about the ravine, especially being one of the people that needs assistance to make it safely in or out, but keeps them to herself.
"As to the goal, I think we're simply suggesting this location for you to consider for possible expansion, when you think the time is right"
Hamlin Vashtel -- AC 13/13/10 -- CMD 13 -- HP 13/13 d20=7 ; Tuesday November 7th, 2023 8:12:35 PM
OOC supporting Nadia's argument for the Ravine 7 (roleplaying the poor diplomacy check)
" We can obviously work out the specifics later but the ravine has minimal wildlife, a natural place to hold our livestock, and the distance is perfect. I think we should not waste time debating any further when the answer is obvious"
Hamlin not bothering to hide his annoyance sips angrily from his tea "This tea is great Frit."
Dominik - Aymar Shakhtar -- AC 20/16/14 -- CMD 20 -- HP 13/17 (Condition: Poisioned) d20+2=7 ; d20+7=26 ; Tuesday November 7th, 2023 9:40:05 PM
Aymar is distracted with his own thoughts about what to tell Thaedon when they return. Even when the tracks are pointed out he seem to not give them much mind.
Aymar considers carefully before speaking up, "Unfortunately, there is no one perfect choice. I believe the plateau has the most benefits to offer Drakesmeade. However its distance and its current occupation make it a long term goal. Aydi and Nadia have spoken for the ravine and I am inclined to agree with them. The ravine makes the most sense to be our starting point. If we can't make that work, then there is little point in extending ourselves further."
Aydi, Nadia, Aymar, and Hamlin speak in favor of the ravine location.
Kaida and Frit have thoughts, but they choose not to speak directly in favor of the ravine.
Ian and Nora are silent.
Thaeden nods, but has a bit of a frown. “You have a compelling case, but nobody addressed the points I specifically requested. What resources will you need? What defenses will you implement? If you are off on a mission, what will the defenses be when you are gone?”
“Go on ahead and pitch me on your second choice. Please keep my questions in mind. What do you need to make this work, and work safely?”
RobC - Kaida Shadowplay -- AC 13/13/11 -- CMD 11 -- HP 16/17 d20+5=23 ; Wednesday November 8th, 2023 12:56:49 AM
Kaida, having listened to the previous pitch, puts up a suggestion.
"Well, if you don't mind me saying, I think the cave has potential."
"As the closest and smallest of the locations we visited, it would be the logical first step for expanding the clan's presence in the Scab. Being inside a mountain might also be comforting to those used to such things."
"In terms of resources, well, it depends on how you choose to scale things. A good first step would be to have a couple of people on hand to man it at all times. There are already sleeping hollows carved inside the cave, and it's protected from the elements. There would probably need to be some construction of a few pens for animals, and maybe some way to cover them or protect them from being attacked. Maybe some sort of mesh or netting over them."
"Defences would be easy. There's only one way into the cave at the moment. It would be easy to construct some sort of cover. It would also be possible to have a tunnel at the back that would lead into Drakesmeade. That would allow transportation without being seen. You could rig some of the passage to collapse if need be. Again, you have a couple of people there and some sort of alarm to call out to Drakesmeade for aid. Being the closest it would be the quickest to get support. You could add some spots for lookouts or archers hidden above too."
"As for the current occupant - the bear - well, you have someone watch the cave, and when the bear leaves you block the entrance. You then wait a week and the bear will have moved on. No combat necessary"
Kaida pauses a moment.
"What I'm saying is start small and take it from there. If the cave proves successful then the case for the ravine or plateau becomes easy"
------------ Diplomacy: 23
Jason Whited - Ian Shadowcrest -- AC 17/14/14 -- CMD 14 -- HP 22/22 Wednesday November 8th, 2023 7:41:35 AM
Ian looks around as the others talk and shrugs his shoulders and says "Me be here to help. Me do not have a preference."
MM - Eleonora Deepmine -- AC 17/13/14 -- CMD 12 -- HP 19/19 Wednesday November 8th, 2023 5:17:57 PM "I'm not sure... I liked the ravine for any livestock, because it doesn't need any construction to keep them there. But Kaida's point about the cave sounds good. Anyway, I do agree that starting small and close would be nice, to see what happens. The plateau might be nice if we build a larger settlement outside, but it is so far it would need its own protection and so quite a lot of building."
StephenT - Aydi Alzila -- AC 19/16/16 -- CMD 18 -- HP 23/23 Wednesday November 8th, 2023 6:40:31 PM
Aydi listens to Kaida and understands her points. He just worries that they want an all or nothing. He would be okay to use the cave, but would like to bring the benefits of the plateau as well. So all of the information can be given for the right decision
Hamlin Vashtel -- AC 13/13/10 -- CMD 13 -- HP 13/13 d20=15 ; Wednesday November 8th, 2023 7:28:41 PM
What resources will you need? What defenses will you implement? If you are off on a mission, what will the defenses be when you are gone?”
Hamlin considers for a moment and decides to try being diplomatic again (15). "Well fair enough Thaeden we are not architects but at least I can try to answer your questions on the ravine. We need wood to build a stairway into the ravine and enough lumber for small watch areas on the east and west side of the Ravine. Two soldiers in the towers with crossbows should be enough to attend to any issues that may arise. The ravine itself will hold the cattle with some fencing support as well"
Jess- Fritjof -- AC 15/15/13 -- CMD 19 -- HP 23/23 Wednesday November 8th, 2023 8:18:41 PM
Frit still doesn't say much during the conversation. As the debate draws on, he fidgets more and more, bouncing his leg and playing with his tea cup.
Dominik - Aymar Shakhtar -- AC 20/16/14 -- CMD 20 -- HP 13/17 (Condition: Poisioned) d20+7=16 ; Wednesday November 8th, 2023 8:47:52 PM
Aymar considers Thaeden's words.
"The cave is closest and probably is the least resources intensive on the clan's part. We have to consider the altar and, of course, its current occupant. Wood and crafting supplies are a good start. Building structures at the cave entrance for defense. It should be easy enough to defend with or without our presence. The idea of making a tunnel from the cave to Drakesmeade make it an intriguing location. We could make good use the location and provide many benefits to the clan."
Spencer Holloway Nadia Silvershield AC 19/13/15 HP 11/11 Wednesday November 8th, 2023 11:12:40 PM " I have to say the cave as a second choice is also worth looking into. I would say we need supplies either way for walls and waterworks, as for who looks after while on missions, do you play on sending the Sons out as well as us? We could rotate?"
Kaida steps forward to speak for the cave location. She mentions the closeness, including digging a tunnel from Drakesmeade to the cave. As for resources, she suggests two people on watch at all times, some way to block off the cave, and maybe a mesh or net over the whole thing for protection.
Aydi and Nora are mildly supportive.
Aymar diplomatically agrees, reinforcing key points. [Cayzle OOC: Pretty much sure you are now cured of your poison -- please fix your header.]
Nadia is neutral but offers that the cave is her second favorite.
Ian and Frit reserve judgement.
Hamlin goes back to the ravine, and Thaeden frowns. You get the feeling the chief’s son really only wants to consider one proposal at a time.
The aid another bonuses are enough to loft this Diplomacy check to 27. Thaeden leans back and smiles.
“I’m ready to recommend that we will start the project in the cave as soon as possible. Does anyone want to speak about it? Does anyone want to revisit another location?”
StephenT - Aydi Alzila -- AC 19/16/16 -- CMD 18 -- HP 23/23 d20+6=7 ; Thursday November 9th, 2023 10:56:28 AM "I know the cave is a good starting point, but before you move forward may I talk to you about the plateau. I think this would be an excellent place to set up an outpost. The land is fertile so we would not have to a source of food for any livestock. When it comes to defensability we are allready starting with the high ground when we could set up walls and war machines to keep enemies out with out much danger to us and the stronghold. It is the farthest but that is an advantage where we could be an early warning for Drakesmeade. For further defense we could build into the plateau that way we would have the added security the land itself. With the addition of traps that would be set around the perimeter of the plateau we would have added security while away and a skeleton crew would be able to defend while waiting for reinforcements to arive. In addition, animals want to stay clear of large groups, so this would be a good starting off point for any long distance hunting expodition. The main resources that would be needed is building materials, lumber, and manpower to set up the outpost." Aydi states.
He takes a breath and knows he has allready lost (Diplomacy 7) :If the cave is where you decide I am okay with that, but at least let us plan to use the plateau in the future it is too good of a location to pass up."
StephenT - Aydi Alzila -- AC 19/16/16 -- CMD 18 -- HP 23/23 Thursday November 9th, 2023 10:56:53 AM
OOC Diplomacy 7 (Nat 1)
Jess- Fritjof -- AC 15/15/13 -- CMD 19 -- HP 23/23 d20=11 ; Thursday November 9th, 2023 3:18:54 PM
Frit continues to be a bit antsy and continues to fidget during the conversation--obviously not used to being still for so long--, but when Aydi brings up the plateau he focuses a bit. He clear his throat, but hesitates a moment before speaking.
"Um, everything Kaida said about the cave is true, but for w-w-w-- for what's it's, uh, worth, and I'm not sure it's worth much, but out of all the places I, um, visited--and I know I didn't see the ravine--that was the one where I think I'd, uh, want to live. A place that felt like it could actually be a, um, home, not just an outpost."
RobC - Kaida Shadowplay -- AC 13/13/11 -- CMD 11 -- HP 16/17 Thursday November 9th, 2023 5:53:11 PM "Very true. If we can prove the cave is a success, then expanding to other areas as the clan expands, makes sense. Both the ravine and the plateau had positives"
She then has a thought.
"Now that we have scouted those location and provided our findings, would it be worth sending other teams to inspect them? Teams familiar with the Scab and it's challenges, and experienced enough to know about potential dangers. They might have more idea than we do about the best way to prepare and safeguard a location specifically for the Scab."
MM - Eleonora Deepmine -- AC 17/13/14 -- CMD 12 -- HP 19/19 Thursday November 9th, 2023 6:26:10 PM "Yes... I understood that there are ogres and giants and who knows what around here? If we can look for tracks or other marks around the cave to see if they ever come there." Nora agrees with Kaida.
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