Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant Lvl 10 (7'4") (Kim) AC 22 Touch 16 FF20 HP 84/84 Sunday January 21st, 2024 7:02:23 PM
"Buff's girlfriend should kill him and eat him," Mundhildur says. She laughs, almost like a villain might laugh. Her face twists up for a moment, then she calms down. "I'm hungry."
Ironic Asimov(23/13/21; 87 HP; CMD 20) Armor (42/53 HP; Hardness 5) -- Hugh Sunday January 21st, 2024 9:11:18 PM
(OOC: The problem with filing the serial numbers off a module is if it is used in a crime it is hard to trace the module but I mean I think there is an acid treatment that can be used to recover some of the filed off serial numbers)
Zeoll (AC22, HP75 of 90) | Bill the Eagle (AC21, HP68 of 68) | Cayzle Monday January 22nd, 2024 6:06:32 PM
I got a module from Jerry. Filing off the serial numbers as we speak.
Mitch - The Twins combat Tunnel Map Monday January 22nd, 2024 8:05:00 PM Elron tells a shaggy dog story. Mundhildur says something odd.
The party load up, along with the some of the survivors and the first rescue party sent. Lady Femu still looks tired, but she seems to have recovered from the Derro poisoning and is ready to head back with the group.
Back on the mainland, in the small town that supports the operation on the island, the party meet up with the Grand Vizier Jothindalil, the ancient elf who prefers to just be called Jordan or Joth. He’s the person they’ve been reporting to and it’s only been a week since they last saw him even though it feels like it’s been over a year.
He invites the party, Lady Femu, and the survivors of her group to join him and there’s a really nice spread of food to greet the returning heroes. ”I’ve been getting your reports, very well written, but I’d appreciate a verbal recap of everything that happened just to ensure I haven’t missed any details.” he requests after the group is done eating.
Zeoll (AC22, HP75 of 90) | Bill the Eagle (AC21, HP68 of 68) | Cayzle d20+23=43 ; Monday January 22nd, 2024 9:53:49 PM
Silver-tongue Zeoll is happy to recount the adventure, pointing out Elron's cleverness, Mundhi's bravery, Cyrion's amazing psychic powers, Asimov's techno-wizardry, and the Twins' invaluable support.
In a spare moment, Zeoll approaches Lady Femu the healer and explains that the core reason we came to this land was to meet her and beg her help curing a little girl in a small kingdom to the west.
"She's just the sweetest little thing, but she has been fighting a wasting illness for a long time. I hope you will consent to visit."
Diplomacy to help her attitude: 43 (nat 20, woot!)
Cyrion the Black HP 74/91 AC 19 or 23 CMD: 20 | DR: 4/ while has focus Monday January 22nd, 2024 11:18:39 PM
Cyrion will add his two coppers when needed. He'll eat and drink enough to be polite.
Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant Lvl 10 (7'4") (Kim) AC 22 Touch 16 FF20 HP 84/84 Tuesday January 23rd, 2024 6:54:11 AM
"We fought the derro and their shiny centipedes and rescued the people," is all that Mundhildur says.
Mitch - The Twins combat Tunnel Map d20=14 ; Tuesday January 23rd, 2024 7:48:12 PM Zeoll gives a detailed accounting. Afterwards he approaches the healer about the reason the party came. Cyrion adds his 2 coppers. Asimov adds technical detail. Mundhildur adds a straightforward comment.
Jordan nods along thoughtfully as the party expounds on their adventure, asking the occasional insightful question and generally taking everything in. Lady Femu and her companions also give a report of the time they spent on the island. It seems they investigated the colony much as the party had, finding some of the same signs, but had been ambushed in the night after discussing how to further the investigation. Lady Femmu had been asleep for it and those standing guard hadn’t known anything was wrong until they suddenly found themselves confused, forgetful, and easy prey.
”They must have guessed I was a skilled caster and healer from my effects, for they kept me heavily sedated the entire time we were imprisoned” Lady Femmu says regretfully.
After the meal plans Zeoll approaches the healer with his request. ”I will consider it. While I am always happy to help I have been gone from the province too long and must confirm there has been no resurgence of the plague I came here to fight. I will not abandon a province of people in need for a single girl.”
So it seems the healer, the rest of her group, and Jordan will be returning to Countess Hatred. The party presumably has no reason not to join the group heading back to possibly get rewarded by Countess Hatred for the job they’ve done and to follow up with Lady Femmu after she’s met with the
Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant Lvl 10 (7'4") (Kim) AC 22 Touch 16 FF20 HP 84/84 Tuesday January 23rd, 2024 8:36:49 PM
Mundhildur seems to be looking at different people, spending time taking in what they look like. She does not pay much mind to the smaller or weaker people. More time on the stronger folks. She had gotten to know the captain moderately well as she carried him back to the fort.
Zeoll (AC22, HP75 of 90) | Bill the Eagle (AC21, HP68 of 68) | Cayzle Tuesday January 23rd, 2024 10:12:06 PM
Zeoll does not push it with the healer. He is happy to reunite with Bill the Eagle. He asks the captain when we will be back in the Lady's area.
Cyrion the Black HP 74/91 AC 19 or 23 CMD: 20 | DR: 4/ while has focus Tuesday January 23rd, 2024 11:25:03 PM
Cyrion doesn't mind seeing Mi'Lady Hatred again, he found her rather fetching
Elron -- SteveM -- HP: 66/94 | AC: 24 | DR: 2/-- | Move: 50' Wednesday January 24th, 2024 6:34:39 PM
Elron is still going over the events from their arrival at the colony in his head, figuring out how to best summarize them. There's an awful lot there, and no real punch line, neither. Because of this, he's a bit distracted on the journey back to Cheliax.* When he does remember a detail, he makes sure to tell Jordan.
Elron also takes time to make sure Lady Femmu knows that they respect her decisions even though little Dani is a very special girl. But, if Lady Femmu should decide that she can't leave to help Dani, Elron has a few questions for her to give him the best chance of being of some help. . .
"Do you have any idea what's causin' Dani's sickness? . . . Are there any treatments or remedies that you recommend? . . . Is there anythin' we should be doin' to keep her from gettin' sicker? . . . Is there anyone else who might help her? We've heard you're somethin' special. . . What should we be tellin' you to help you tell us what we need to know? . . . Would these here gems you folks are minin' help? . . . What advice can you offer for ongoin' care? Are there specific routines or practices we should be followin' to promote recov'ry? . . . If'n we have Bill carry messages back an' forth, could you tell th' local healers what to do? . . . Is recov'ry goin' t' take a long time, an' does that change what we need t' be doin;?"
. ----- * Assuming they're headed to Cheliax. At least that's a place Elron remembers having been, it's where the Angry Chicken is.
Mitch - The Twins combat Tunnel Map Wednesday January 24th, 2024 7:56:18 PM Mundhildur looks over people in an odd way. Asimov says he’ll be happy to be off the island. Zeoll doesn’t push things. Cyrion doesn’t mind meeting the countess again as he found her rather fetching. Elron is trying to figure out how to best summarize events into a story and has lots of questions in case the healer can’t return with the party.
(Apologies it seems my Monday post wasn’t clear, possibly because I seem to have accidentally skipped over some stuff after my week long break - I thought the party had already been back to the colony for a post when they hadn’t.) *Back in time to yesterday
The party and the exhausted survivors make it back to the colony. There’s some confusion as the difference between guard and prisoner has somewhat fallen by the wayside in their shared captivity and no one really wants to go back to back breaking forced labor after their ordeal nor do the guards want to make them.
For now things seem to settle on “let’s all recover and figure it out later”. Medical supplies are dug into, letters written to loved ones, and the cells are opened up and beds dragged into a communal sleeping arrangement.
Whatever spell the Captain was under seems to finally wear off. He falls into an exhausted sleep and in the morning writes a letter to his sister and a report for the Countess.
*back to current timeline
After everyone agrees the nice royal carriage the carried the party to their adventure is prepared and takes the party back towards the Countess’s manor. In the initial trip I believe the party left in the morning and arrived in the evening, so they stop in the same pleasant town they ate in previously in order to get a good nights rest. The rooms are nicely furnished and private, with each person to their own room and a single entry and window each.
Cyrion the Black HP 74/91 AC 19 or 23 CMD: 20 | DR: 4/ while has focus Wednesday January 24th, 2024 9:25:08 PM
In the morning, Cyrion will make sure his "body" is clean, and what parts can be, are shiny.
(OOC: What level are we now? I have Asimov at level 11)
Zeoll (AC22, HP75 of 90) | Bill the Eagle (AC21, HP68 of 68) | Cayzle Wednesday January 24th, 2024 10:20:09 PM
Zeoll uses prestidigitation to tidy himself up and any of his friends, too.
Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant Lvl 10 (7'4") (Kim) AC 22 Touch 16 FF20 HP 84/84 Wednesday January 24th, 2024 10:28:15 PM
If Zeoll offers her the prestidigitation to clean up, Mundhildur accepts that without comment or thanks.
Elron -- SteveM -- HP: 66/94 | AC: 24 | DR: 2/-- | Move: 50' Thursday January 25th, 2024 7:44:51 PM
Elron would ask more questions, but he's short on symptom-related puns.
Mitch - The Twins combat Tunnel Map Thursday January 25th, 2024 7:59:58 PM Cyrion makes sure to clean himself in the morning. Asimov enjoys the accommodations. Zeoll has magic cleaning. Mundhildur has few comments. Elron is short on puns (shocking!)
It’s a quiet night and people quickly fall asleep. It’s past midnight when something usual happens. Mundhildur’s window, left open slightly when she went to bed, is suddenly lit up with an active magic rune. A pair of figures emerge from the shadows and look at it grimly. ”It is as I feared then.””Best we caught it early though. Only two needed to die.”
Drawing blades, then slash at something trapped in the rune, something invisible to the eye, and it’s alien screams awaken everyone in the inn.
Zeoll (AC22, HP75 of 90) | Bill the Eagle (AC21, HP68 of 68) | Cayzle Thursday January 25th, 2024 9:44:40 PM
Zeoll wakes up and stands up.
"Who goes therre!?" he shouts
Ironic Asimov(23/13/21; 87 HP; CMD 20) Armor (42/53 HP; Hardness 5) -- Hugh Thursday January 25th, 2024 10:27:24 PM
OOC: Could Irony have seen into Munhildur's window as Asimov was asleep? If the construct could have seen the light it may have reacted as it takes watch as Asimov is sleeping.)
Asimov has Irony form armor around him and the pair fly after the assault in progress.
Cyrion the Black HP 74/91 AC 19 or 23 CMD: 20 | DR: 4/ while has focus Thursday January 25th, 2024 11:35:17 PM
Cyrion, who was resting near the fireplace, stands up and draws Carver, bellowing out, "What in the nine hells was that!"
Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant Lvl 10 (7'4") (Kim) AC 22 Touch 16 FF20 HP 0/99 Friday January 26th, 2024 2:00:33 AM
Mundhildur's body lies still. There may be a spot of blood at the corner of her mouth.
Elron -- SteveM -- HP: 66/94 | AC: 24 | DR: 2/-- | Move: 50' Friday January 26th, 2024 6:02:08 PM
Having no need to equip, Elron immediately rushes to where he thinks the sounds were coming from.
Mitch - The Twins combat Tunnel Map d4=3 ; d4=3 ; Saturday January 27th, 2024 7:36:18 AM Zeoll wakes up and shouts who goes there. Asimov rushes over to help (it depends on which side of the building he was standing guard in and which window it happened at. Rolling to determine randomly… and they match! He was right there next to it) Cyrion draws his blade and bellows. Mundhildur is still. Elron rushes out.
Various people arrive to witness events. The figures turn to the approaching party and it’s Jordan and Lady Femmu! They’re wearing dark cloaks and looking grim. ”I’m afraid we have terrible news.” Jordan says before using his staff to push away the bushes at the bottom of the window.
There, lying dead on the earth, is a strange creature. It almost looks like a human brain but with four clawed limbs and strange tendrils that look almost like small tails coming from one side. Several deep cuts gush blood from the fresh corpse.
Jordan speaks, ”Your description of that survivor you found, Daris I think was his name, sparked memories. We had an intellect devourer problem once a few centuries ago, monstrous creatures that take over people in the night and you’re description of events tickled my memory of those events.”
Lady Femmu picks up the tale. ”He consulted me. We couldn’t be sure, but I’ve researched the beasts in the past. They have to change hosts every 5 days, and that would be tonight by what you told us of your adventures. I’m no good at combat magic, but ritual magic is a specialty so I set up wards at the windows to hold anything trying to climb in or out of them and we ensure the doors were secure so the creature couldn’t go out that way.”
Jordan looks very tired. ”It seems our fears were well founded. This came out of Mundhildur’s window. It’s likely she’s been dead since you rested in Daris’s presence, this monster puppeting her corpse.”
”I think I can bring her back.” Lady Femmu is quick to assure the group. ”It will take a powerful resurrection spell, but it is just within my capabilities.”
Zeoll (AC22, HP75 of 90) | Bill the Eagle (AC21, HP68 of 68) | Cayzle d20+37=41 ; Saturday January 27th, 2024 11:59:06 AM
Zeoll finds this all amazing! He listens carefully and tries to discern the truth of the situation, just because it is so unbelievable.
Sense Motive with a +8 hero point spend: 41
If this is true, then certainly, a raise would be a very welcome boon.
"Thank you," is all he says, if he senses this all to be reality.
Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant Lvl 10 (7'4") (Kim) AC 22 Touch 16 FF20 HP 0/99 Sunday January 28th, 2024 2:25:39 PM
A faint sense of decay lies about Mundhildur's body
Mitch - The Twins combat Tunnel Map Monday January 29th, 2024 7:03:21 AM
Zeoll can detect no lies, and indeed the party finds Mundhildur dead with the same injuries Daris had when he passed mysteriously in the night. Asimov is ready to bring her back with all haste.
Now that the thing is out of her Mundhildur’s body looks and smells like one that has been rotting for a week. The healer spends some time preparing things and then starts the ritual to raise her. A minute later her body is rejuvenated and she opens her eyes.
Cyrion the Black HP 74/91 AC 19 or 23 CMD: 20 | DR: 4/ while has focus Monday January 29th, 2024 10:21:04 AM
Cyrion looks on almost in wonder as Mund's body changes from deceased to awake. "Creatures that eat brains and control the host, that is creepy. No wonder Darid didn't seem happy that I am the one who followed him."
Cyrion the Black HP 74/91 AC 19 or 23 CMD: 20 | DR: 4/ while has focus Monday January 29th, 2024 10:02:47 PM
Cyrion looks on almost in wonder as Mund's body changes from deceased to awake. "Creatures that eat brains and control the host, that is creepy. No wonder Darid didn't seem happy that I am the one who followed him."
Zeoll (AC22, HP75 of 90) | Bill the Eagle (AC21, HP68 of 68) | Cayzle Monday January 29th, 2024 10:03:32 PM
"Lady Femmu, we arre deeply in yourr debt. If you have any need of a serrvice frrom me, you have but to call."
Zeoll hugs Mundhi and fills her in on what has been going on.
Elron -- SteveM -- HP: 66/94 | AC: 24 | DR: 2/-- | Move: 50' Monday January 29th, 2024 10:53:14 PM
Elron is flummoxed and on the verge of kerfluffled.
In fact, Elron rages and turns the remnants of the clawed brain-thing into paste, his spirit wisps nipping at anyone who tries to stop him.
Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant Lvl 10 (7'4") (Kim) AC 22 Touch 16 FF20 HP 0/99 Tuesday January 30th, 2024 2:17:38 AM
As she awakens, Mundhildur takes in several sharp breaths. She does not immediately open her eyes, but listens to the voices of her friends.
Her eyes open as Cyrion speaks. "Daris. Daris followed you. I spoke with Daris - the real one, not the one we met and I came close to killing. Should have killed him. The real Daris would have been fine with that, because it wasn't him - it was the brain eater. It ate the insides of our heads!
"Why didn't you listen to me? I told you he was off. Didn't you think it was weird the way he led us to that bridge over the big dropoff? Then it got me in the middle of the night. Couldn't you tell it wasn't me anymore in my body? I followed you around as the - thing - pretended to be me. Poorly! Didn't you notice the shifty eyes? *I* don't have shifty eyes - do I?" Then she looks uncertain. "Do my eyes shift like that? Oh, that thing was evil - and you were just walking along with it happy as squirrels with fresh acorns!" She shudders, and her initially clear eyes are beginning to well with tears. "I begged you. I beseeched you. I tried getting you to hear me, but you were deaf to my entreaties."
She sobs for a few moments. "I... I followed you until you left the cavern. I gave up hope. Daris - he was a nice man. He said we should ride the Woldsblood, and go to our next place. He said it would probably be fine." She hesitates. "He said... something else. I cannot remember." Her eyes have a faraway look. "It is fading. I could remember everything. The derro, the light centipedes - I will say this. That thing didn't do everything well, but he could fight." A deep intake of breath, and a long exhale. In a smaller voice she continues, "The poor prisoners..." her voice fades.
She lifts her knees. She rubs her eyes, then wipes her face with the back of her sleeve. Mundhildur sits up at the edge of the bed, and again brushes her face with the palms of her hand, pushing back her now disheveled auburn hair. She looks around and smiles at her friends, and at Lady Femmu. "Thank you for calling me back, good woman. I was not ready to ride the Woldsblood. Thank you."
"So, I gather you all asked for help once you got me back here. You finally figured out it wasn't really me, right? Oh, you are smarter than I was beginning to think. And here, I am granted the gift to breathe the Wold's air again, and the first thing I do is complain! My mother would scold me for such, she would scold me hard. And make me scrub the stone floors on my hands and knees! Ah, forgive me for sounding ungrateful. My heart is welling up with gratitude." Her voice is getting back its musicality.
She stands and reciprocates Zeoll's hug, and touches or embraces each member of the group she has been traveling with, leaning down to kiss Elron's now brain-and-blood spattered head. "You brave and noble rooster man, I love your stories."
"Now, do we not have a young girl in need of help? Have we the means to do so yet?" As she awaits an answer, she reaches into her bag that someone thoughtfully left next to her bed, and pulls out a brush. She runs it through her hair, working through the tangles. "Well, don't everyone just speak at once," she laughs.
Mitch - The Twins combat Tunnel Map Tuesday January 30th, 2024 8:21:31 AM Cyrion looks on in almost wonder and comments on Dari’s actions. Zeoll tells Lady Femmu they are in her debt and hugs Mundhildur. Elron is flummoxed and destroys the corpse in a rage. Asimov asks about tests that can be done. Mundhildur talks about her experience being dead as the memories fade. She scolds the party, but then changes her tune to gratitude and hugs everyone.
Although the reunion is a happy one it is in fact still the middle of the night and people barely got any sleep. Jordan reassures the civilians that the noise was nothing to worry about, the adventurers took care of things and people start to go back to bed.
Come morning it’s time to finish the journey to the manor. It’s a pleasant day and the ride promises to be an easy one.
"Is there any way to detect if someone is under the control of an intellect devourer should we come across another such possessed person in the future."
Elron -- SteveM -- HP: 66/94 | AC: 24 | DR: 2/-- | Move: 50' Tuesday January 30th, 2024 11:27:05 PM "Well, Mundhildur, our best chance at helpin' Dani is the same healer who brought you back. But we gotta see how bad things are in these parts 'fore she decides whether she'll go." Elron is subdued, almost apologetic as he explains. And undoubtedly has oversimplified things. He ponders asking Lady Femmu more questions, but does not do so that day.
Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant Lvl 10 (7'4") (Kim) AC 22 Touch 16 FF20 HP 0/99 Wednesday January 31st, 2024 6:47:26 AM
Mundhildur says, "I think I want that thing cleaned out before I go to sleep. Actually, I'm not tired." She asks if there is a place she can sit down and write for a spell. She will need to get paper or parchment and ink from someone else. She wants to write what she can remember before it fades away entirely.
At breakfast she is really ready to eat. She does so as politely as she is able for feeling famished. She will want to catch up with what happened after the group left the caves.
Mitch - The Twins combat Tunnel Map Wednesday January 31st, 2024 8:23:43 AM Asimov asks about detection in the future. Elron says that the healer is the best chance to help Dani, but she has to follow up here first. Mundhildur stays up and writes.
Mundhildur is shown to another room where she can write in peace for the night. The trip back to Manor Hatred is uneventful, and questions are answered along the way. ”Sadly the best detection is the wound they leave behind when they exit a host. That’s what tipped me off, I saw many like it and when you described Daris’s death it set off alarm bells.” Lady Femmu explains.
After about a half-day of leisurely travel the party arrives at the manor. They are told to wait a short time while the lady is informed of your arrival and finishes what she is currently doing.
Elron -- SteveM -- HP: 66/94 | AC: 24 | DR: 2/-- | Move: 50' Wednesday January 31st, 2024 6:33:39 PM
Elron, perched on the wagon seat with a wide-brimmed hat casting a shadow over his eyes*, begins to spin a yarn for his fellow travelers. He wants Lady Femmu to help Dani, so he's going to make sure she's entertained. He starts in a lively tone:
"Well now, y'all ever hear th’ tale o’ Old Doc McAllister an’ th’ Midnight Cure? Gather 'round, 'cause this one's a doozy!
Back in th’ days when folks relied more on prayers than potions, there was this healer – Doc McAllister, they called him. Now, Doc McAllister war’n't your ordinary healer; he had a knack for concocting remedies that could mend bones quicker than a hummin'bird's heartbeat.
One moonlit night, our good Doc got word o’ a peculiar ailment sweeping through a distant village. Th’ kind what made folks glow in th’ dark, mind you. Now, he had this trusty steed, Thunderhoof, a horse with a coat as black as th’ night itself. They say Thunderhoof could outrun th’ wind when he wanted to. So, off they go, racing through th’ moonlit meadows an’ shadowy woods. Doc McAllister had a vial o’ his special elixir clinking in his pocket. Legend had it, this potion could cure anything from a snake bite to a broken heart.
As they reached th’ village, everyone was glowing like fireflies in a summer night. Th’ folks were in a downright panic, but our Doc, calm as a cat in a sunbeam, strolled into town like he owned th’ place. He set up shop in th’ village square, an’ one by one, he cured those glowing souls. With a sip o’ th’ elixir, poof! Th’ glow was gone, vanished like dew in th’ morning sun. Th’ villagers were so grateful each an' every one of 'em named their firstborns after th’ good Doc, even th’ ones without kids!”
----- * He used to use his hat of disguise for such effects; we'll pretend the chameleon ring also works for storytelling.
Ironic Asimov(23/13/21; 87 HP; CMD 20) Armor (42/53 HP; Hardness 5) -- Hugh Wednesday January 31st, 2024 9:10:15 PM
Asimov says in clarification, "So what you are saying is we need to be careful of rando's we pick up in dungeons and then watch them like a hawk for any wounds that develop when the intellect devourer leaves them?"
Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant Lvl 10 (7'4") (Kim) AC 22 Touch 16 FF20 HP 0/99 Thursday February 1st, 2024 12:27:36 AM
Mundhildur says as they ride along. "That thing was evil. How about someone with the ability checks for evil from time to time, just to make sure they haven't been taken over?" As they travel further, she adds, "Maybe we should recruit for a cleric."
Mitch - The Twins combat Tunnel Map Thursday February 1st, 2024 8:27:52 AM Elron tells a doctor story. Asimov asks for clarification on intellect devourers. Mundhildur suggests detect evil as a catch all detection method.
Jordan nods at Mundhildur’s suggestion. ”Generally they are evil and if they are infesting people you haven’t met you can just deal with them like anyone else evil. It’s when people start mysteriously passing in the night, with those wounds, and other people start acting strangely, that you should become alert. They can only get vague impressions of their host’s pasts which is another big sign.”
Elron’s stories keep the group entertained as they travel and then as they wait. Once again they are lead through a manor bustling with activity, scribes and bureaucrats working on various projects or traveling the halls towards various meetings. Lady Hatred meets them in the same room as before, an audience hall cut off from the sunlight, draped with banners of demonic battles, lit by purple flames and guarded by armored succubi.
Lady Hatred herself seems eager to meet the party. Instead of cooly leaning back in her chair she’s sitting forward eagerly as they approach to the proper distance. ”Jordan sent me word of your success. Tell me everything.” she demands.
Cyrion the Black HP 74/91 AC 19 or 23 CMD: 20 | DR: 4/ while has focus Know-Psionics Check: d20+10=28 ; Thursday February 1st, 2024 10:05:03 AM
Cyrion returns the hug from Mund, adding, "You are right, we should have noticed something. The prisoners and situation I think is what kept us from connecting the dots."
During the trip Cyrion seems to be sleep walking ... whomever is closest to him hears him muttering to himself about the intellect devourer and his psionic abilities.
OOC: Cyrion is trying to remember any other tell tale signs about these creatures, as they are an imminent threat to those with psionics ...
Elron -- SteveM -- HP: 66/94 | AC: 24 | DR: 2/-- | Move: 50' Thursday February 1st, 2024 10:53:16 PM Tell me everything is an interesting challenge for Elron, who has been known to become a tad long-winded. He relates the details of their adventure as he remembers them (probably encouraged to skip over some of it), managing to be correct in the broad strokes.
Ironic Asimov(23/13/21; 87 HP; CMD 20) Armor (42/53 HP; Hardness 5) -- Hugh Friday February 2nd, 2024 12:40:51 AM
Asimov says, "So if Honor were here she could just detect evil on said rando and we'd know they might be an intellect devourer. I'm trying to prevent the intellect devourer from getting to the point where it causes a party member to act strangely because then they are dead and we need high level resurrection magic to bring them back."
Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant Lvl 10 (7'4") (Kim) AC 22 Touch 16 FF20 HP 0/99 Friday February 2nd, 2024 4:12:37 AM
Mundhi nods at Asimov's comment. "I miss having Honor with us." [Am assuming this comment was not during interview with Lady Hatred.]
During that interview, however, Mundhildur states her full name, then tells of the examination of the fort / prison camp, gives many details as to whom and what was discovered and uncovered there, then moves on to the journey through the jungle, the attack by the blue-skinned Derro, and the dark attack which caused her to lose recent memories. After receiving help from friends to recover from that, she goes over the entrance into the caves, the encounters, and what they learned about the Derro, as well as the poor captives from the camp, and their conditions.
She describes the cytillipedes, and how the Derro would ride them mounted. Her part of the story devolves around Daris, her strong suspicions about him, his odd behavior, how lasciviously he looked at her during the night watch, and how going to sleep was her last act before she died.
The Jotun woman describes meeting the real Daris on the other side of death, and how different he was from the intellect devourer that had taken him over. How she was aware of much that her friends were doing, and her frustration at their block-headedness, not realizing her body had simply become a hand puppet for that evil monster. "He didn't even know how to use ropes! - Idiot! And he threw half-eaten carrots down on the heads of the poor prisoners who were kept in the pits!" And then her gratitude for being brought back to life. "I truly love my block-headed friends, Lady Hatred." She then suggests that Zeoll might be the best one to recount their story.
Cyrion the Black HP 74/91 AC 19 or 23 CMD: 20 | DR: 4/ while has focus Friday February 2nd, 2024 10:19:11 AM
Cyrion adds whatever bits and pieces he knows, that might have been overlooked. When it came to the Intellect Devourers, his comment is, "They are crafty and sneaky creatures. They like to target brains of those who hold power, mages, clerics, even psionicists. Those folks, provide more flavor to the meal the Devourers get. None of us caught on that Mund was a host for one, mainly do to what we had been experiencing, the battles, saving the prisoners, the oppressiveness of the region. We were told that these creatures had been an issue in the past, I'd send folks out who know how to track them to make sure they aren't around in strength."
Zeoll (AC22, HP75 of 90) | Bill the Eagle (AC21, HP68 of 68) | Cayzle Friday February 2nd, 2024 6:23:12 PM
Zeoll shivers in disgust. "Well, let us be glad therre was only one."
Therre was only one, rright?"
The taur looks around at his friends.
Cyrion the Black HP 74/91 AC 19 or 23 CMD: 20 | DR: 4/ while has focus Friday February 2nd, 2024 9:25:26 PM
Cyrion adds whatever bits and pieces he knows, that might have been overlooked. When it came to the Intellect Devourers, his comment is, "They are crafty and sneaky creatures. They like to target brains of those who hold power, mages, clerics, even psionicists. Those folks, provide more flavor to the meal the Devourers get. None of us caught on that Mund was a host for one, mainly do to what we had been experiencing, the battles, saving the prisoners, the oppressiveness of the region. We were told that these creatures had been an issue in the past, I'd send folks out who know how to track them to make sure they aren't around in strength."
Mitch - The Twins combat Tunnel Map Saturday February 3rd, 2024 3:26:29 AM Cyrion thinks they should have noticed and is reviewing his memories of their time on the island. Elron tells everything, possibly in too much detail. Asimov muses about stopping devourers before they eat a party member. Mundhildur adds her own details including about her time being dead. Cyrion adds his own details and comments on the dangers of devourers. Zeoll is glad there was only one. There was only one right?
Countess Hatred hangs on the party’s every word. In that moment she’s no longer the aloof, powerful noble, she’s more like a kid living vicariously through grand tales she cannot participate in. Zeoll’s question after the story is over brings her back to herself and she scoots back in her chair and visibility restrains herself.
”Have no worries, none other than you have left the island and Jordan sent a pigeon back to the village with instructions. We’ll ensure no further infestation of Intellect Devourers remain.
You have my gratitude adventurers. You have solved the mystery and saved our prison colony. You shall be rewarded handsomely for your efforts.”
Lady Femmu clears her throat. ”Speaking of rewards, this group has asked me to come with them to help with a child’s sickness. While I would like to reward them for saving me and join them, I need to know that the plague has not resurged in my absence.”
The Countess nods and the pair have a conversation about the plague the party heard about, the efforts to contain and cure it, and the current state of the area. It seems things are going well and there have been no signs of a resurgence.
Ironic Asimov(23/13/21; 87 HP; CMD 20) Armor (42/53 HP; Hardness 5) -- Hugh Sunday February 4th, 2024 12:44:14 PM
Asimov says, "I'm talking about beyond your island. It seems like these intellect devourers could exist in other parts than here and I'd hate to not have learned from our encounter with this one. Maybe we try to find a magic item that can detect evil and next time we pick up a random person in a dungeon we use that item on them and if they come up as evil we set a watch on them as they sleep to make sure an intellect devourer isn't going to emerge."
Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant Lvl 10 (7'4") (Kim) AC 22 Touch 16 FF20 HP 0/99 Monday February 5th, 2024 6:26:47 AM
"Countess Hatred, based upon your name alone, I was not certain we could trust you," Mundhildur Karadottir tells the noblewoman. "I think I was wrong about that. May you rule wisely - as I think you have, and believe you shall."
"Lady Femmu, you will fall in love with little Danielle."
"Asimov - what a clever idea! If we have such an item, that is, to detect evil, then *I* would like to be the person who carries it."
Mitch - The Twins combat Tunnel Map Monday February 5th, 2024 7:29:19 AM Asimov is concerned about brain eating monsters. Mundhildur states she misjudged the Countess, that Lady Feemu will love the kid, and that Asimov’s idea is clever.
Lady Femu listens to Asimov’s comments sympathetically. ”It is understandable with your recent experiences that you’d be paranoid about them, but Intellect Devours are incredibly rare. You’ll likely never run across another in your lifetime and there are far more evil things in the world than they, many far more dangerous. If you can secure evil detecting magic then a general caution around anything that registers as evil is the best defense. You don’t want to be so paranoid about possible devourers that you let other forms of evil catch you by surprise.”
Countess Hatred gets a little smile at Mundhildur’s comment but doesn’t address it directly. ”Unless there is something other important issue that we haven’t discuss this audience is over. I have many things to attend to and as fascinating as your story has been the burdens of leadership never end. I wish you luck in your future adventures.”
Cyrion the Black HP 74/91 AC 19 or 23 CMD: 20 | DR: 4/ while has focus Diplomacy roll?: d20+8=10 ; Monday February 5th, 2024 2:17:54 PM
Hmmmmmmmmmmmmm
Looking somewhat abashed, Cyrion will approach the Countess. "I wonder if I might be so bold as to invite you to dinner. I haven't met anyone like you before, and would like to get to know you better. Especially if we are to stay close to your lands. I admit, those who held power where I came from we not kind to those under them. That is not what I have seen here. You do care about your people and what happens within it."
(ugh)
Cyrion the Black HP 74/91 AC 19 or 23 CMD: 20 | DR: 4/ while has focus Monday February 5th, 2024 5:18:26 PM
OOC: Dumb question, his WBL is around 32,000gp ... is that bad?
Elron -- SteveM -- HP: 66/94 | AC: 24 | DR: 2/-- | Move: 50' Monday February 5th, 2024 8:11:23 PM “Know what you mean, Cyrion. A pretty girl makes my heart go flippity flop.”
Asimov says, "Right...unless we have a dinner to plan I guess we should be moving on at some point."
Zeoll (AC22, HP75 of 90) | Bill the Eagle (AC21, HP68 of 68) | Cayzle Monday February 5th, 2024 10:05:26 PM
Zeoll bows to both ladies and is grateful for their kind words, and says so.
"We arre grrateful to have been of serrvice," he says.
Mitch - The Twins combat Tunnel Map Tuesday February 6th, 2024 7:06:07 AM Cyrion steps forward and asks for a date? Elron understands Cyrion’s impulse. Asimov guesses the party should be moving on soon. Zeoll bows to the ladies at their kind words.
Countess Hatred seems utterly flummoxed by the question, freezing up and staring at the warforged, while Lady Femmu and Jordan seem highly amused. The Demon guards glower balefully, and you get the feeling Cyrion just broke all kinds of protocol, but not in a way that gives the demons an excuse to attack.
”Oh, um, well, I guess, um, well I really do have an important meeting to go to, but maybe later tonight? I’ll send Jordan for you?”
After Cyrion responds she quickly makes an exit guards trailing her. Jordan leads the party off to the armories and treasuries so the party can claim their reward
(Yes, per the email everyone level up to 12 and put yourself at 108k total wealth)
Elron -- SteveM -- HP: 66/94 | AC: 24 | DR: 2/-- | Move: 50' Tuesday February 6th, 2024 7:34:15 PM Claim their reward? Elron looks forward to a reward. What sort of reward? He hasn't the foggiest, but he's happy to go see.
Zeoll (AC22, HP75 of 90) | Bill the Eagle (AC21, HP68 of 68) | Cayzle Tuesday February 6th, 2024 11:09:01 PM
Zeoll looks around the treasury with big eyes! So much to take in!
Mitch - The Twins combat Tunnel Map Wednesday February 7th, 2024 9:40:22 AM
Countess Hatred has a surprising amount of powerful magic items in her treasuries and armories. With them the party is able to upgrade their gear however they desire, finding the perfect items for themselves.
Elron -- SteveM -- HP: 66/94 | AC: 24 | DR: 2/-- | Move: 50' d100=97 ; d100=56 ; Wednesday February 7th, 2024 4:46:40 PM
In the treasury, the first thing Elron lays eyes on is. . . a large pearl (pearl of power, 8th level).
The treasurer confirms that it is of the appropriate value based on the orders he was given, but seems to find something funny about Elron's choice. As in, people are going to laugh at me for having this funny.
Next to the pearl on the table are a crystal ball (useless thing) and a headband (already got one). Beside the headband are some bracers. Elron takes the bracers. No one laughs at bracers.
Bracers of armor +8. . . Will detail out what on the character sheet.
Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant Lvl 10 (7'4") (Kim) AC 22 Touch 16 FF20 HP 0/99 Thursday February 8th, 2024 3:27:02 AM
Mundhildur nudges Cyrion as they walk toward the treasury. "Did not know you had it in you, Cyrion. I'm impressed!"
She takes her time in the room, looking here and there, trying things on.
[My schedule is filled pretty close to the max for the next 5-6 days, including Sat/Sun. I may be able to do little until mid to late next week as far as treasure / leveling efforts. After that, I hope things ease off.]
Mitch - The Twins combat Tunnel Map Thursday February 8th, 2024 7:30:18 AM Elron claims a pearl and bracers Asimov swims through the treasure like a duck. Mundhildur is impressed by Cyrion and takes her time.
The meal goes… well? It’s lunch, not dinner, as the party arrived in the morning. There’s a nice spread, not too much, not too little, and the Countess seems kind of interested, but also really awkward. She seems to have no idea how to interact with a suiter and especially not a warforged who may or may not even have romantic designs on her.
Outside her audience hall, with the weird lighting, the near throne chair, and the intimidating guardians it quickly becomes evident that Countess Hatred is actually fairly young and not sure what to do in this entirely new situation.
Still it goes well enough and it’s obvious if Cyrion, or anyone in the party for that matter, wants to come back to visit again they’ll be well received. The rest of the party get their own private little meal courtesy of the Countess joined by Lady Femmu and Jordan, and afterwards it’s time to get going. Since the plague seems to be all over Lady Femmu leaves with the party.
Zeoll (AC22, HP75 of 90) | Bill the Eagle (AC21, HP68 of 68) | Cayzle d20+29=48 ; Thursday February 8th, 2024 9:22:23 AM
At the breakfast: Zeoll enjoys the interactions and sings a song of celebration. Perform 48
In the treasury: Zeoll is especially happy to see some gear that is perfect or him. armor, a shield, a ring, an amulet, a headband.
When it is time to leave: The old liontaur is glad to be on the road again This little nation, with its prisons and evil-seeming culture, has grated on his free spirited nature. He asks Lady Femmu if she is a native of this place, and if she can tell him amything more about it and it's seeming contradictions.
Elron -- SteveM -- HP: 66/94 | AC: 24 | DR: 2/-- | Move: 50' Thursday February 8th, 2024 9:19:00 PM "Lady Femmu, we're so glad you're coming, you're gonna love Dani, I gotta say, just hearin' 'bout your legend'ry prowess has got us more excited than a rabbit in a carrot patch! Folks talk 'bout you like you're sun on a chilly morning—bright, warm, and bringin' hope. Now, Dani here, she's got a pesky disease, and we heard tell that you're th' maestro, th' virtuoso, th' grandmaster of th' healin' arts!" Elron punctuates his words with animated gestures, his eyes sparkling with admiration. "They say you've mended broken bones quicker'n a hiccup and cured ailments that had other healers scratchin' their heads like perplexed lizards. Dani here, she's got a heart as pure as a crystal spring, and we're trustin' you to be th' beacon that guides her through this storm." Elron, with a flourish, doffs an imaginary hat in Lady Femmu's direction. "So, Lady Femmu, you're like a shootin' star in our darkest night, and we're downright honored t' have you lend your expertise. If there's a cure to be found, I reckon it's in your hands. I'm more grateful than a cow in clover."
Mitch - The Twins combat Tunnel Map Friday February 9th, 2024 9:00:14 AM Zeoll sings, upgrades gear, and is glad to be on the road again once the party leaves Asimov enjoys the meal Elron is pleased the healer is coming and talks a lot about Dani’s history and what he hopes will happen.
Lady Femmu responds to Elron and Zeoll, ”I am not from the area, but I have passed through it before, many generations ago. It has changed a lot, it was a fairly normal kingdom before, but a few generations demon worshipers overthrew the government and run the country. People had to either convert, flee, or play along. Countess Hatred’s parents were human children when it happened, and her grandparents were executed for not supporting the demon worship.
Thus the whole family has had to play a tricky game of protecting their people, not upsetting the evils in charge, and not falling themselves into evil or demonic ploys. My understanding is they intentionally exposed themselves to demonic energies when Hatred was in the womb to birth a Tiefling. It made the entire family safer from accusations of opposing their demonic rulers, as they could just point to their daughter’s birth as evidence of their involvement with dark powers and she looked the part of a dark ruler in a demonic kingdom.”
The party reaches the little town with the Angry Chicken Inn. This is where the sister of the guard captain asked for their help, so they might want to let her know how things turned out.
Elron -- SteveM -- HP: 66/94 | AC: 24 | DR: 2/-- | Move: 50' Saturday February 10th, 2024 4:16:56 PM
The Angry Chicken. . . Elron told a joke there last time they were through, "Folks'll be expectin' anotha'. . . ". Elron thinks about this, he has a reputation to uphold here.
Th' renowned sage Scratchington -- an expert in religion -- walks into a bar... He suddenly sees stars spinning around t' form shapes, an' he feels as if he’s been struck by lightnin'. Then, while collapsed on th' ground, he sees Alemi himself staring down at him, asking, "Why did th' chicken go to th' seance?".
A day later, Scratchington wakes up in a bed t' see a healer looking at him. “Why did that happen?” Scratchington asks after explaining what he’d seen and felt.
“Oh, that’s all pretty standard for someone like you,” the healer responds.
“What do you mean, ‘someone like me’?” Scratchington asks, somewhat offended. . . The healer raises an eyebrow. “Someone who experienced head trauma from walking into an iron bar.”
Mitch - The Twins combat Tunnel Map Monday February 12th, 2024 7:32:43 PM Asimov wants some chicken and is ready to report to the sister about the captain. Elron has a joke all prepared.
The party’s return causes a stir in the town as they made quite an impression their first time through. In fact is seems the town was so entertained by Elron last visit that they put their heads together to find or make the best joke they could in response to his.
Their chosen champion steps forward, a young lady with a mischievous grin. ”There once was a farm owned by a particularly grumpy farmer named Hagget. Near that farm lived a family of rabbits that were always trying to get at some of his prized crops as they were the most delicious plants in the area, a big part of why Hagget was so grumpy.
The eldest son of this rabbit family was named Foot. A big, strapping young buck he was both tough and fast, once fighting off a cat Hagget got to try to deal with the pests after his fine crops and evading so skillfully the farmer could never take him down with his rifle.
Now not being the most imaginative of creatures the 2nd son was simply named FootFoot. FootFoot joined Foot on one of his trips to the farm as a young kit and nearly got killed by the aforementioned cat, causing him to grow into a nervous and cautious sort. He usually avoided the farm, preferring less fine greenery over the risks the farmer brought but he’d indulge in anything Foot brought back on his escapades.
The third son, FootFootFoot, was still young at the time of our story, but he was by far the luckiest of the family. Every time he went out he’d stumble on some delicacy or noticed some predator just before it could attack and escape it. He was well loved and often invited on Foot’s escapades because of this.
One day Foot convinced FootFoot and FootFootFoot to join him on a raid on the farm. FootFoot didn’t want to go of course, but FootFootFoot assured them with his luck they’d spot every trap before they stumble into it, and Foot bragged he could beat up any cat the farmer had to defend the crop, so reluctantly FootFoot joined the others.
And indeed it went well. FootFootFoot spotted trap after trap before they stumbled into it while Foot’s mere presence made the cat slink away rather then engage the group. Slowly FootFoot began to relax, and he raided the carrots with Foot while FootFootFoot indulged in the cabbages. They were well fed and off the farm before the farmer finished tending to his morning chores.
The next day though Foot got really ill. And I mean REALLY ill. Before the family knew it he died, and everyone was upset. FootFoot was particularly freaked out, but wouldn’t say why to anyone until finally FootFootFoot got FootFoot alone and asked him if he was ok.
“Oh, FootFootFoot I’m so worried, I’m worried that Foot ate a bad carrot.”
“A bad carrot? Foot, Hagget has the finest crops in the area, he’d never had bad carrots!”
“But FootFootFoot, he’s always trying to get rid of us and he’s always getting smarter and oh gosh oh no I, I ate from the same carrot!”
“FootFoot, calm down. We can’t lose you. We’ve got one Foot in the grave already.”
Cyrion the Black HP 74/91 AC 19 or 23 CMD: 20 | DR: 4/ while has focus Monday February 12th, 2024 8:00:25 PM
Cyrion was caught off guard by Lady Hatred taking him up on his offer. He politely ate small amounts of food and drink. He was hoping to perhaps turn this in to something long term, as he finds her interesting and rather attractive. Following they're meal, Cyrion seems lost in thought when Mund nudges him. Looking at Mund he asks back, "Outside of eating, how does a male court a female on this world? Where I came from, there were no such options or opportunities." Joining his friends in the treasury, Cyrion finds a few items in a corner covered in dust and some small amount of debris. He finds a two handed sword which makes him whistle. Easing the blade from its scabbard, it seems to glow with an inner light, as though it recognizes Cyrion, then the light fades. Cyrion places this new sword in his sheath, and leaves Carver as a replacement. Moving around the table he finds a prism-shaped green and white stone. Lifting it from the table, it tugs itself out of Cyrion's hand, and begins spinning around his head, nearly invisible to the naked eye. In a small leather box he finds some healing potions, and adds them to his collection.
Zeoll (AC22, HP75 of 90) | Bill the Eagle (AC21, HP68 of 68) | Cayzle Monday February 12th, 2024 10:25:01 PM
While enjoying the merriment, Zeoll seeks out the sister of the guard captain to relate to her all that has happened.
Elron -- SteveM -- HP: 66/94 | AC: 24 | DR: 2/-- | Move: 50' Tuesday February 13th, 2024 7:05:49 PM "The Foot Clan, huh? I think I heard of 'em. Too bad Lady Femmu wasn't there to fix'm up." Elron enjoys the evening.
Mitch - The Twins combat Tunnel Map Wednesday February 14th, 2024 7:48:32 AM Cyrion is caught off guard by Hatred’s acceptance. He upgrades his gear and asks Mundhildur about courting practices in this world. Zeoll and Asimov track down the captain’s sister. Elron thinks he’s heard of the foot clan.
The party finds the captain’s sister and report. She’s incredibly grateful. ”I’m sure I’ll get a letter the next time a supply ship heads out there.
With all quests turned into the quest givers the party’s time in Lady Hatred’s lands has come to an end. It’s just a few day’s travel back to home and proper rest.
Elron -- SteveM -- HP: 66/94 | AC: 24 | DR: 2/-- | Move: 50' Wednesday February 14th, 2024 7:49:40 PM
Elron isn't the courtly type, or he'd figure out what message to get to Master Lockridge and how to get it to him. But that's Zeoll's department, so Elron asks Zeoll what he's going to do.
Cyrion the Black HP 74/91 AC 19 or 23 CMD: 20 | DR: 4/ while has focus Wednesday February 14th, 2024 10:38:29 PM
Cyrion waits and practices with his new sword, putting it through his normal attack and defense postures ... all the while he is wracking his brain on something to give to Lady Hatred before he leaves.
Mitch - The Twins combat Tunnel Map Thursday February 15th, 2024 7:07:53 AM
I'm going to level this weekend
Cyrion the Black HP 74/91 AC 19 or 23 CMD: 20 | DR: 4/ while has focus Thursday February 15th, 2024 4:43:05 PM
I updated his character sheet and fixed his info bar
I added a tab with the description of his Racial and Psionic Feats
I copied and pasted Zeoll's charts for Stats and HP, and updated them
Sword - So according to WBL, he can't have any 1 item worth more than 50% of his WBL ... so with his sword, If it drops to a +3 weapon, that puts it at 50K, or at a +2 would be 32K - either way is fine with me, means I can find him someting else that might keep him and his friends alive
Mitch - The Twins combat Tunnel Map Thursday February 15th, 2024 8:54:28 PM
I mean that seems more like a guideline then an actual rule. Putting half your wealth into damage can be nice but his AC and saves will fall behind and might go down really fast.
Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant Lvl 10 (7'4") (Kim) AC 22 Touch 16 FF20 HP 0/99 Friday February 16th, 2024 1:56:18 PM
Guys - I am getting so swamped it hurts. Hope things will begin to lighten up in the near future...
Mitch - The Twins combat Tunnel Map d100=41 ; d100=31 ; d10=10 ; d10=8 ; d10=5 ; Sunday February 18th, 2024 2:39:53 AM
I think I have successfully leveled. I probably missed something, I usually do.
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