DM Hugh & Mitch - Home Friday March 1st, 2024 4:34:04 AM Torryn says that if there’s to be singing there should be dancing. She asks what they should sing. Drack hauls up the boxes and has extradimensional space to store them in. He makes food and sings some old songs, though not with great skill. Torrym tries her own childhood elvish song. Ash is amused and helps carry treasure. Loryn gives his own traditional song to add to the mix. Gnubert just enjoys the tune while he patches wounds. Manolo tries dancing but stumbles a bit. Mortimer tells the others they’re rich as he takes in all the gems and he’s happy to have the song, dance and cooking. Normally he’d sing a diddy himself but his lyrics are too ribald for the children.
That first night passes peacefully and though they aren’t all like that the party manages to get the 20 children home safe and to their worried parents. It is a bittersweet homecoming though because the adults that were taken didn’t make it but at least the younglings are safe.
An adventuring party leading a group of 20 children isn't something one sees every day so you become the talk of the town.
The day after you get back after being treated to lunch at the Belt and Belch by a grateful town you overhear a conversation at a nearby table.
"I swear I saw him."
"You saw a halfling with solid gold eyes and a floating hourglass that was always flowing but never emptied and just how many drinks had you had?"
"3 but I knows what I saw. I was in the common room of the Hearthfire Inn and yes I had had some wine but saw the floating endless hourglass and the golden eyed halfling and thought self that isn't something you see everyday."
"Now normally I would have said something sooner but the children being returned safe well that kind of stole the show didn't it. The halfling though I inquired about him and he already checked out all quietly like apparently. Said something about just passing through. Perhaps things will quiet down for a while? Who knows. Let's have another round."
Drack (Chris J) - hp 65/73 - AC 20 Friday March 1st, 2024 7:59:32 AM
Drack hears the conversation about the halfling with golden eyes, but since the story did not appear to contain anything more than an odd curiosity, he relatively dismisses it. No evil threat, no problem. Drack does look over to the spellcasters who were likely to take a keener interest to see if they had heard the conversation.
AC 13 HP 45/45 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K d20+12=13 ; d20+12=29 ; Friday March 1st, 2024 11:49:20 AM
Loryn is happy to get the children home and safe. After nearly 2 months on the road, the gnome was looking forward to a proper kitchen and bed for at least a week.
The Belt n Belch was a solid establishment and Loryn was a fairly regular customer, though never on a Saturday Night. Fistacuffs were not in the gnomes bag of tricks. Overhearing of a golden eyed halfling with a floating hourglass certainly pricked up Loryn's ears and curiosity. Hearthfire was high end wine room and certainly might attract such a client. Loryn could only think of one halfling, Bill Trouble Finder. He had seen him about the Giggling Ghost on occasion, but could not recall him having golden eyes. Loendir owns the Hearthfire Inn and Loryn decides he will need to have a conversation with the elf, but that would be later. Perhaps tomorrow and certainly after he tried to get a little more of the story of the encounter in the first place.
"Excuse me", he begins. "I could not help but to overhear. Did you say a halfling with a floating hourglass was at the Hearthfire Inn the other night. Could you tell me more of him and what you saw?"
Know Arcana 13 of course as it might have been useful
Acid Ray 6/8 30' range 1d6+3 Innate Used: 1st lvl: 7/7 2nd lvl: 0/6 3rd lvl: 4/4
Treasure: All MW quality -2 Darkwood Staff -40 Darkwood branches for arrows -4 Darkwood wand Map case 2 Candles of Healing (2 uses left?)
Like Loryn, Torry was pleased for the respite. She really wasn't one for drinking, but felt hat celebrating the children's safe return merited at least one drink; so she had a glass of wine, watered down. The story meant nothing to her. It didn't appear to involve any dancing. her plan was to relax and then make her way back to a welcoming bed. Tomorrow she planned to be up early, as usual, as she wanted to go through all her katas and do some extra stretching.
Manolo (Michael A) -- AC 21/17/16 -- CMD 20 -- HP 43/43 ;-1lvl HP35/38,-1 all checks Friday March 1st, 2024 8:09:12 PM
Manolo listen to Loryn conversation.
Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11 ( 15 Mage Armor)(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 12/36 Friday March 1st, 2024 8:48:53 PM
"Sounds like a powerful mage" Ash thinks to himself. He keeps listening, intrigued to say the least.
Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.): ac:20/16/19. temp/hp:63/50. false life, shield, lucky, darkvision Friday March 1st, 2024 11:10:38 PM
Over in the darker corner of the Belt & Belch, Mortimer sits at his favorite table. He slowly nurses his first ale in over two weeks. He'd been jonesing for this all that time. When he hears talk about golden-eyed hobbits with floating hourglasses, he sighs and rolls his eyes. He always thought hobbits were creepy. Little wiggly fingers, always smacking and sucking on their food and drink. Their feet covered in hair, 'Disgusting!'
Sitting next to him is an odd sort of fellow. He's a rather short and chubby individual with a crooked nose and dark patches around his silvery eyes. He's shrouded in a dark robe, only his pale, hairless head is exposed. His name is Mortdecai and no one else, other than Mortimer, can see him. Mortdecai is one of many ancestors that haunt him. He just sits there sheepishly, trying not to be a bother, but unable to stay away. Mortimer gives him a sideways glance and returns to his pint.
In a low tone, Mortimer begins to chat with his relative. "I can tells ya one thing about this Wind'orn 'amlet, my friend," and Mortdecai smiles admiringly to being called friend. "I've never been to a place, in all my travels, that 'as more taverns and shops that serve alcohol. The whole 'amlet ... nothin' but drunks! For Wardd sakes, even the temple 'as a wine bar! Don't get me started with The Beer & Bath ... a bath'ouse that serves beer, yeah! Ya shoulda seen all the commotion when the ampersand fell off their sign out front; it read, 'Beer Bath'. Like a swarm of bees, they were!" Mortdecai holds back a chuckle.
"what's an ampersand, Mortdecai quietly asks? "It's a rune that means 'And' in a name," he answers with an added sigh. After a short pause, Mortimer softly moans, "Uhhh, hobbits! Lil' pale gobbie gits.
Drack (Chris J) - hp 73/73 - AC 20 Saturday March 2nd, 2024 9:09:18 AM
Lay hands: 7/8 Spells: 1st Level: Divine Favor Bless 2nd Level: Bull Strength
Gnubert Glitterdust (Wade) AC: 20 T: 14 F: 18 R: 9 F: 14 W: 11 HPS: 51/51 CMD: 6 Sunday March 3rd, 2024 8:06:01 PM
OOC: This may seem small especially since you guys just took over but there is something Gnubert has to finish as soon as the children are delivered to the town. You can finger wave it if you wish but this is what he does.
Gnubert makes sure the children are delivered safely, and gets a good nights sleep before heading back to the altar, and area were evil. Gnubert takes the time to prepare at least one consecrate before heading out. The gnome not being a big ol dummy lets the others know where he is going prior to hiking out and cleansing the area. He will go alone if necessary but the ground shall be holy once again.
Drack (Chris J) - hp 73/73 - AC 20 Sunday March 3rd, 2024 9:30:16 PM
Drack will obviously join Gnubert.
DM Mitch and Hugh Monday March 4th, 2024 6:46:48 AM Drack hears the conversation about the halfling with the golden eyes but since the story wasn’t anything more than a curiosity he dismisses it and looks over at the casters in his group. Loryn is happy to get the children home and safe and after 2 months on the road, the gnome was looking forward to a proper and kitchen and bed for at least a week. When she overhears the conversation at the Belt n Belch and thinks of Bill Trouble Finder but she isn’t sure if he has golden eyes. She goes over to the other table and asks for more info about the halfling with the golden eyes. Torry was pleased for the respite. Although not generally one for drinking she felt the safe return of the children merited a celebration. The story meant nothing to her and the next day she planned to be up early to do her katas and stretching. Manolo listens to Lorryn’s conversation. Ash surmises the halfling must be a powerful mage and also listens in. Mortimer sits alone in his dark corner thinking about how hobitses are disgusting. He has a bit of a conversation with a deceased relative about all the drinking going on in this town. Gnubert informs the others of his intention to re-consecrate the area. Drack tells Gnubert he will join in. One of the men seated at the table says, “Why it’s Lorryn Glitterfall one of the heroes who rescued those kids. What’s a nice place like you doing in a lady like this?” He asks
The other man says, “Forgive my friend. He is deep in his cups. But anyway as I was telling William here the other night I was in the Hearthfire Inn and this strange halfling with Golden Eyes and a floating glass that seemed to never have the grains stop flowing asked for a room. The halfling paid up front in platinum and was ushered off. I tried to ask around after the fact but apparently he was just passing through and checked out fairly early the next day which was the same day you returned with the children. All that fanfare must have gave the halfling extra cover to leave without making a fuss.”
In the morning Gnubert has something important to do. He lets the others know then heads back out. The alter the hags used seems somehow even creepier now that it’s abandoned, and the battle left the place kind of a mess. Some cleaning and disposal of dark ritual material may be in order in addition to consecration - or not, that’s up to Gnubert and whomever goes with him.
Torrynashkabbeth (Nick) HP:22/40 AC:22 F11: R13 W:15 d20=1 ; Monday March 4th, 2024 8:15:01 AM
The rest and the careful ministrations of her friends (Drack and Gnubert) saw Torryn fully restored to health the next morning. She arose early and so had time enough to complete her katas and stretches before joining Gnubert and Drack on their mission. Spot was happy for the exercise too and she offered Gnubert the chance to ride if he so chose. It would speed things along.
Once at the creepy altar Torryn held back whilst Drack and Gnubert did their thing. She kept an eye and ear open for any trouble. Her bow was actually to hand for once.
~~~ Perception: 12 (but a Nat 1). ~~~
The patina of lichen on some of the rocks was very interesting. She tilted her head and tried to see what shapes or figures she could identify therein. Of her surroundings she was largely oblivious.
~~~
Spells etc: 5/day Mage Armour. Shield
Fey Spark: used0/6 1st lvl: used 2/5 Lay on Hands: used 0/5 Stunning Fist: used 0/4 Smite Evil: used 0/1
~~~
Drack (Chris J) - hp 73/73 - AC 20 Monday March 4th, 2024 9:45:06 AM
Drack will follow Gnuberts lead, and do as requested. He had little knowledge about consecrating areas yet, and was going to pay particularly close attention as Gnubert does it in case he has the ability in the future.
Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11 ( 15 Mage Armor)(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 12/36 Monday March 4th, 2024 10:52:17 AM
Ash listens intently to the story, but doesn't add much other than a nod or deep sip of his ale.
AC 13 HP 45/45 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K Monday March 4th, 2024 1:58:03 PM "Hero and proud member of The Argentium good sir. Short in stature, tall in power, narrow of purpose and wide of vision." Lorryn smiles and waves off the odd comment attributing it to, as the other man said, drink. Something he felt too many others abused, but that was a different topic of discussion. "So he simply slipped out eh? Well thank you all the same."
Loryn leans back to his own table to Mortimer and Ash "well perhaps this evening should take u s for a well deserved splurge of dinner at the Hearthfire Inn where we might be able to talk with Loendir about this. Maybe where he headed or some other tid bit can be had eh?"
Acid Ray 8/8 30' range 1d6+3 Innate Used: 1st lvl: 7/7 2nd lvl: 6/6 3rd lvl: 4/4
Treasure: All MW quality -2 Darkwood Staff -40 Darkwood branches for arrows -4 Darkwood wand Map case 2 Candles of Healing (2 uses left?)
Gnubert Glitterdust (Wade) AC: 20 T: 14 F: 18 R: 9 F: 14 W: 11 HPS: 51/51 CMD: 6 Monday March 4th, 2024 6:52:20 PM "This will take a little while, well maybe a bit longer than that. Probably close to 14 hours to say my prayers, use holy water, etcetera. Thank you both for coming. I know this may seem inconsequential but the Gods guide my footsteps, and I know I was needed here to do this."
The young cleric begins his prayers, and spell cleansing the evil from this area, and consecrating it to good.
Manolo (Michael A) -- AC 21/17/16 -- CMD 20 -- HP 43/43 ;-1lvl HP35/38,-1 all checks d20+8=18 ; Monday March 4th, 2024 7:05:54 PM
Manolo goes and asks around about the strange halfling. Perhaps there other places they didn't consider to check? or perhaps someone else know him or talked with him ? or little forgotten fact someone didn't mention?
Local knowledge 18
Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.): ac:20/16/19. temp/hp:63/50. false life, shield, lucky, darkvision Monday March 4th, 2024 10:17:03 PM
Mortimer answers Loryn with a smile. "Yeah, time ta get cheeky Belchos, we will."
When Mortimer learns of Gnubert and Drack's plans to return to the scene of the crime, he offers to go with them in the morning. The fame of being heroes rubs against his reclusive nature. Sure, at first he enjoys the praise and the swagger, but a like cat, he wants to retreat back to the dark. All that attention becomes unbearable. "You'll need a gravedigger. I'll grab a few extra shovels."
Torrynashkabbeth (Nick) HP:22/40 AC:22 F11: R13 W:15 d20=15 ; Tuesday March 5th, 2024 5:19:22 AM
Fourteen hours? Thought Torryn. That was good - just think of all the practice she could get in then! She informed Spot of the time that they'd be here and led her to a place that actually had some edible grass, before finding an elevated spot where she could keep an eye on things whilst honing her balance, sense and flexibility. Being a Sacred Dancer required a lot of focus and effort. Sometimes it seemed that others were progressing in their chosen fields far more swiftly than she was, but that didn't really matter. A Sacred Dancer was what she was and she was dedicated to her art.
Torry keeps watch whilst Drack and Gnubert do their thing: Perception: 26
Drack (Chris J) - hp 73/73 - AC 20 Tuesday March 5th, 2024 8:27:14 AM
Drack assist as needed, and does as Gnubert asks, all the while trying to keep an eye out for trouble or anything unusual.
DM Mitch and Hugh Tuesday March 5th, 2024 8:38:34 AM
The previous day: Lorryn fully introduces herself to the one man, waving off his odd comment as having too much to drink. She confirms the golden eyed halfling slipped out and then goes back to the table suggesting they go to dinner at the Hearthfire Inn and talk with Leondir about this. Mortimer agrees with Lorryn’s suggestion Ash listened intently to the story but didn’t add much other than a nod or sip of ale.
The next morning: Mortimer accompanies the others on their expedition reasoning that a gravedigger with extra shovels is needed. Torry was fully restored to normal health the next morning thanks to Gnubert and Drack. She completes her katas then heads out with Gnubert and Drack on their mission keeping an eye out in case for trouble while they did their thing. Drack follows Gnubert’s lead and does as requested paying attention to what the cleric does in case he gains the ability in the future. Gnubert suggests that it will take a while to do the consecration and he begins his prayer and spell in order to cleanse the evil from the area and consecrate it for good.
It’s a long 14 hours, but by the end the ancient alter is… well it’s still ancient and abandoned looking but the foul influence of the hags is fully purged. It looks peaceful now, a holy place long unused.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ While that is going on Manolo asks around town after the golden eyed halfing. He’s able to quickly confirm the story - the halfling showed up at the Inn, rented a night, and was gone by morning. Interestingly there’s no word of his arrival in town. It’s like he just appeared near the inn, spend the night, then vanished into thin air afterwards.
Furthermore Manolo’s investigation reminds people of other strange people passing through in recent times. A farrier reports, ”A centaur stopped by here for some new shoes. Smallest one I’ve ever seen! Looked more like a halfling joined to a pony then a human to a man. I almost laughed, but one look from her curbed that right away. Fierce lady, with such frightening scars, but she paid well. Was about 2 days ago.”
Grog, the tavern owner, has his own story. ”Big orc guy came in a week ago. Scholarly type, giant bag full of books and never seemed to stop reading them while he was here.. One of the drunks even decided to pick a fight and threw something at him and he caught it without even looking up. After we threw out the drunk he thanked me for the meal and left town.”
With the worry of the missing children and the relatively low profile most of the strangers kept no one in town had really connected the dots. None of the strangers stayed long, just getting food, supplies, maybe a quick meal, before moving on. The halfling staying a full night seemed to be an exception and even he vanished quickly. Now Manolo’s started asking questions though, causing the stories to start to spread and soon the whole town is speculating about where all these odd folk are heading.
Following this tide of weirdness another stranger comes a calling at the boarding house the group is staying at…
Hank (Tanner) -- AC 24/12/22 -- CMD 24 -- HP 70 Tuesday March 5th, 2024 9:20:17 AM
You see a tall and muscular human male, clad in shining full plate armor. He has white hair despite a youthful face, with cool blue eyes and a small horizontal scar on the bridge of his nose. He carries what could only be described as a highly stylized club, made of black and gold metal with glowing blue crystal.
"Hey-o." He raises a hand in greeting as he peeks his head into the interior without quite stepping inside. "Are you guys the resident adventurers here? My name is Hank. Nice to meet you." He has a chipper smile. "I'm searching for... weird stuff in the area. A halfling with golden eyes that is probably a fey trickster in disguise or something. A ponytaur. Those kind of things. Have you seen anything like that?"
AC 13 HP 45/45 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K Tuesday March 5th, 2024 4:20:38 PM
After an evening of fine dining and odd stories of folks through town, though they all seem to be deadends, Loryn retires to Minerva's for a nightcap and relax with a book by the fire, or perhaps to work on his weaving. Assuming Mortimer and Ash join him, "Not unheard of, folks of note coming through Windhorn, but almost rude for them not to stop in and say hello to us. We have earned some renown I would say." Loryn has a sip of brandy, "Still though, it seems not much else to do on the matter."
The evening wears on and the night settles in, "Well gentlemen, I retire and bid you a good night. Gnubert won't be back for a good week. Tomorrow I'll see about selling the Masterwork darkwood items we found, save the smaller branches that Torrynashkabbeth thought would make good arrows."
Loryn wakes and makes breakfast and upon hearing the holler at the door, steps out to investigate. The bad guys don't knock and so no concern accompanies the gnome into the main foyer.
"Hello There." Dressed in a high quality tunic of tan and brown with a leafy green accents, fine wool pants and black leather boots, the gnome of nominal stature and prominent nose. His bushy white eyebrows somehow compliment his face in a very pleasing and disarming sort of way. His gray eyes have a slight sparkle of mischief and his well groomed naturally white hair falls about his face parted on the left side of his head. "You are indeed in the right place and just in time for breakfast. Loryn Glitterfall, A pleasure. Do come in."
Loryn takes Hank to a spot in the kitchen and delivers a plate of eggs, sourdough bread, shredded and grilled potatoes, honey fried lamb madallions.
"Yes we heard some stories. They all seem to have departed sometime yesterday however. and from what we have heard thus far, not by your normal means. From where brings you to our town?"
Acid Ray 8/8 30' range 1d6+3 Innate Used: 1st lvl: 7/7 2nd lvl: 6/6 3rd lvl: 4/4
Treasure: All MW quality -2 Darkwood Staff -40 Darkwood branches for arrows -4 Darkwood wand Map case 2 Candles of Healing (2 uses left?)
Gnubert Glitterdust (Wade) AC: 20 T: 14 F: 18 R: 9 F: 14 W: 11 HPS: 51/51 CMD: 6 Tuesday March 5th, 2024 8:04:09 PM
Gnubert finally finishes his consecration spell and the evil of the area lifts. The three companions can feel the difference in their skin, their lungs, and most importantly their spirit. Gnubert collapses on the ground exhausted. "Thank you both for helping, and supporting me through this. I just felt we need not forget about the evil in this place before we move on to the next disaster. Thank you again. I need to rest before we journey back. I am exhausted."
Manolo (Michael A) -- AC 21/17/16 -- CMD 20 -- HP 43/43 ;-1lvl HP35/38,-1 all checks Tuesday March 5th, 2024 8:53:13 PM
"Grgu", Manolo says almost saying the name, after hearing Hank. " There was the, this.... Ponytaur, she bought shoes here....but she left 2 days ago and...she is quite fierce the witness said and not to mention the scars she had......you seem to know more about the halfling tnan me. .. You didn't mention a scholarly orc, did you....? He was here a week ago but not much said about apart from keeping to himself" Manolo sighs, awaiting to hear more from Hank or see any reaction from him.
Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11 ( 15 Mage Armor)(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 12/36 Tuesday March 5th, 2024 9:22:50 PM
"You don't say" Ash blurts out to Hank. We were told of your friends passing through before you. " Ash extends a thin arm out to Hank. He stands over 6 feet tall, but weighs a little over a hundred and fifty pounds. His nose is bent, obviously broken and never set right.
Ash reaches into his robe and pules Oslo out, feeding him a small nut he procured from the inn the night before.
Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.): ac:20/16/19. temp/hp:63/50. false life, shield, lucky, darkvision d20+10=15 ; Wednesday March 6th, 2024 12:12:27 AM
As soon as Gnubert began with his consecration ritual, Mortimer almost doubles over in intense, searing pain. In an effort to find relief, and not to interrupt the ritual, he quickly walks away to put some distance between himself and the cleric.
It felt like his blood was beginning to boil. He looks down at this arms and he can see dull, gray veins beginning to show through his skin. He's unsure how he knows this, but he can sense something or someone else sharing the same agony with him. Through this communion of suffering, both Mortimer and this other being acknowledge one another for the first time. The hatred from this creature is near overwhelming.
Instinctively, Mortimer mutters a few words of power. His body immediately begins to chill until it's almost freezing to the touch. While this relieves the burning sensation, he remains shaken to his core.
(Mortimer casts Mortimer's Icy Disposition, aka Rose's Temperature Control.)
An hour or so passes and Mortimer can no longer feel the other presence. As Gnubert continues to chant, Mortimer takes out his shovel and finds a suitable clearing for his graveyard. He begins to dig a grave for each of the five victims that the hags had reanimated into undeath.
Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.): ac:20/16/19. temp/hp:50/50. icy disposition Wednesday March 6th, 2024 12:15:02 AM
(ooc: Updating the stats in the Post Name line.)
DM Mitch and Hugh Wednesday March 6th, 2024 8:36:17 AM
The previous day.. Mortimer almost doubled over in intense pain during Gnubert’s ritual but he walked away to put distance between them. He looks down at his pale arm and can sense something sharing the agony so he casts Icy disposition to relieve the sensation while being shaken to the core. Things eventually subside and he finds a nice clearing for the graveyard digging a grave for the 5 hag victims. Gnubert finally finished his spell and noticed a change in the area and thanks his companions for their company,
The next day… Hank introduces himself and asks if the party is the resident adventuring group in town. He also mentions he’s looking for weird stuff. Loryn is of the opinion it was rude for these strange visitors to stop by without saying hello. The next morning when Hank shows up he corroborates the stories of the odd strangers and introduces himself confirming Hank was in the right place. He also asks what brings Hank to town. Manolo brings up the scarred ponytaur and scholarly orc then waits to see the man’s reaction. Ash tells Hank he doesn’t say and explains he was told of Hank’s friends passing through ahead of the man before feeding Oslo a nut.
With the children saved, the ritual complete, and a new person introducing themselves things go back to normal for most of the town. The strangers passing through continues, but most show up briefly, are only seen at a business or two, and quickly move on so it proves hard for people to gather around and gawk. This goes on for roughly another week.
On what is the twelfth day of strange people passing through town one arrives that is not subtle. There’s a bit of snow that morning and it’s just clearing up when bells start to be heard. A great red sleigh accented with holly and pulled by great deer drives through town and pulls up in the town square.. A sack almost as large as the sleigh rests in the back and the driver is a giant of a man in all red with rosy cheeks, a great white beard, and a booming laugh that echoes through the area. ”Ho Ho Ho!”
Soon the whole town is buzzing with the arrival of this stranger so that even those who didn’t witness his arrival know of his presence. He’s giving out gifts from his great sack and always seems to know just want the receiver needs, so everyone rush to the town square and share of his bounty before he’s gone!
Torrynashkabbeth (Nick) HP:22/40 AC:22 F11: R13 W:15 Wednesday March 6th, 2024 8:39:02 AM
More digging? It really was something at which Mortimer excelled. Sadly, it just wasn't a Sacred Dancer thing; so she could offer no real assistance with that task. She could however, help with the dragging of bodies. The very thought of carrying them was preposterous. It was all melancholic work and melancholy wasn't something that sat well with Torryn. She distracted herself with spotting things of beauty, even if that was just a cloud.
Finally, when all was done she approached Gnubert. "You did a good thing here, Gnubie. It feels....better. I'd like to take away your fatigue, but my ..um...healing isn't that skilful yet. Maybe Dracky can help? Morty, you should sit down too. You look tired after all that digging. I need to go check on Spot anyway." Torryn then headed off to have words with Spot. She felt hat Spot was a very curious horse and so would want updating on everything that had happened.
Torrynashkabbeth (Nick) HP:40/40 AC:22 F11: R13 W:15 Wednesday March 6th, 2024 8:57:58 AM
(My post crossed with the new one.)
It seemed that this "Hank" was staying, so Torryn felt that it was only polite to introduce herself. She walked over. Torryn was undeniably a young and uncommonly beautiful half elf. Upon getting closer, Hank could see that she was far from tall, standing not much more than five feet in height. Despite this she managed to exude grace and elegance, displaying all the ease and poise of a dancer in her fluid movements.
From a distance it had seemed that she was blonde, albeit a pale one; ash or platinum perhaps. Yet such was not the case. Her hair possessed a markedly silver hue and when the light caught it the ends sparkled pale blue. Moreover, there was a lot of it. Torryn had long - very long hair. The sparkle and hue seemed all the more noticeable given her rich, honey coloured skin. Her eyes were, somewhat like her hair, a pale stormy blue. She had an impish face: a small pixie nose and full lips, along with long-lashed, heavy lidded eyes. Around her neck hung an unusual necklace: it held an orange disc. A second, smaller necklace; a much simpler thing, held a silver lightning bolt.
Torryn wore a pair of practical, brown, over-the-knee boots. Pale green leggings covered her lower limbs and a mustard yellow tunic, her torso. Like her boots, her riding gloves were brown. Given that the tunic was open at the sides it wa clear that she was unafraid to flash a little flesh; flesh that was for the most part obfuscated by a large, black, hooded cloak. (The hood was at present down). She wore no armour.
Torryn was carrying her bow It had a vertical band of colour running from top to bottom. Narrowest and yellow at the tips of the bow, the sandwiched colour widen and took on a progressively red colour as it approached the centre, where an arrow would be placed.
Torryn also had a dagger at her hip, hung from a belt.
"Greetings." she looked up at the impressively large figure of Hank. "I'm Torrynashkabbeth Silvara, but my friends mostly call me Torry. You're Hank, right. Um...you don't mind if I call you Hankie, do you?" She asked sweetly with a mischievous smile. "What do you do? I'm a Scared Dancer and - oh - what's all that noise over there?" As ever, Torryn's attention span, or rather lack thereof, got the better of her and she skipped away to see waht all the fuss was about.
Hank (Tanner) -- AC 24/12/22 -- CMD 24 -- HP 70 Wednesday March 6th, 2024 9:22:03 AM
Hank enthusiastically partakes of breakfast, and exchanges greetings with Loryn, Manolo, and Ash. "Oh, they're not my friends," he says between mouthfuls of food, "I was just sent to investigate. Weird stuff is an unknown, and the unknown can be dangerous. Dangerous is not good for business, you know? Oh, pleased to meet you."
He wipes his mouth with a napkin and stands to exchange greetings with Torrynashkabbeth. "Nice to know you, Torry. Name's Hank. People call me Hank. I am a security specialist for a trading coster out of Bray. We received word from our caravans of strange goings on, and I was sent to investigate and see if anything could potentially threaten trade in the area. So far nothing seems malicious, and I hope it stays that way, but I need to make certain."
(assuming the 12th day refers to the day Hank arrives and we did not have a time skip)
He cocks his head to one side and listens as the sound of jingling bells and clattering hooves drifts into the boarding house. "Well, would you look at that? More weirdness. Great timing! Why don't we go take a look and see if it is good-weird or bad-weird?"
Drack (Chris J) - hp 73/73 - AC 20 Wednesday March 6th, 2024 11:35:17 AM
Following the ritual, Drack lays hands on both Mortimer and Gnubert to remove their fatigue. "Rest my friends. Job well done. When you are ready, we will return and see what trouble the rest of our friends have gotten into."
As Hank walks into the inn, Drack stays seated and quickly appraises the man. Full plate..fancy. and expensive. looks shiny. wonder if its ever been used. Once the others have said their greetings, Drack will wave the newcomer to town over to the table. Drack will buy the man a drink to go with the breakfast that Loryn is assuredly creating. Welcome Hank. I'm curious to know what your business is with the travellers that have been through here. Are they friends, or something I need to be concerned about?" (Drack is obviously a warrior. between the many scars from battle, the breastplate, the Elven Longsword, and the glaring symbol of Domi on his chest, it is a fair guess that he would be a holy warrior. At over 6' tall, he is large for a half elf, and well muscled. He has an obvious charismatic presence to him.)
Drack waits for a response from Hank, curious if a new threat is in the area.
Once the bells start ringing, Drack stands and heads outside to see what in the Wold is going on, and just watches stunned as someone on a sleigh drives into town and starts handing things out. Drack looks oddly at the man, and activates his detect evil, not quite sure what is about to occur.
Drack (Chris J) - hp 73/73 - AC 20 Wednesday March 6th, 2024 11:47:13 AM
(Sorry. Missed Tanners post)
"A merchant company huh, Hank? Interesting. Back in the day, I learned my combat skills guarding the caravans. As far as threats to this area, if there is any word of trouble, we look into it. We have had more than our fair share around here, and like to eliminate problems as quickly as possible."
AC 13 HP 45/45 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K d20+12=17 ; Wednesday March 6th, 2024 4:24:08 PM
Loryn slides another helping towards Hank with a smile. He throws Manolo and Ash a sideways look as they enter the kitchen, "Shouldn't you two be off at some strangers cart folding some under cooked bread covered in unseasoned tomatoes and cheese?"
He takes another moment and sighs, "Well. I suppose it has been a bit and I am the bigger person and all. So here." Loryn slides each a plate with a cheese and ham omelette, a sprinkle of sage and diced onion an pepper across with a side of the grilled shredded potatoes. Bluff 17 The OmeletteHighlight to display spoiler: { is laced with the ghost peppers Loryn purchased from the travelling caravan that he had drying in his storehouse for the last couple of months. Now crushed into fine flakes and generously sprinkled within}
Loryn turns his attention with a smile back to Hank, "Quite right." and then to the commotion outside. Little early for Yuletide. Think Herostan has into Grog's special brew again?"
Loryn chuckles and heads outside to get a look Acid Ray 8/8 30' range 1d6+3 Innate Used: 1st lvl: 7/7 2nd lvl: 6/6 3rd lvl: 4/4
Treasure: All MW quality -2 Darkwood Staff -40 Darkwood branches for arrows -4 Darkwood wand Map case 2 Candles of Healing (2 uses left?)
Gnubert Glitterdust (Wade) AC: 20 T: 14 F: 18 R: 9 F: 14 W: 11 HPS: 51/51 CMD: 6 Wednesday March 6th, 2024 7:11:00 PM
Gnubert thanks his friends for thier support and help. They travel back to the hamlet and Gnubert makes sure to pull on his gleaming white surcoat, and displays his holy symbol prominently on his chest. "Hello, I am Gnubert Glitterdust, traveling cleric of the Gods of the Wold. How are you?"
Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11 ( 15 Mage Armor)(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 12/36 Wednesday March 6th, 2024 7:25:45 PM
Ash follows after Drack, mouth open. "What is going on with this town?" He asks the air. We save the day, kill some witches and moved into a weird timeline of events.
Manolo (Michael A) -- AC 21/17/16 -- CMD 20 -- HP 43/43 ;-1lvl HP35/38,-1 all checks Wednesday March 6th, 2024 7:46:34 PM
Manolo introduces himself simply as "Manolo, rogue by trade, nice to meet you". He will go with the others to investigate
Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.): ac:20/16/19. temp/hp:50/50. icy disposition Wednesday March 6th, 2024 11:50:28 PM
An excited Mortimer swiftly enters the room with a purpose. He pauses only after eyeing the newcomer. With an inquisitive expression, he asks, "Pardon, but are ya the white-haired bloke that's divvyn' out loot to the natives?" Before Hank can utter a word, Mortimer interrupts, "Of course not, you're a young buck. I 'ears he's a proper geezer, yeah!"
Mortimer quickly exits the front door to the street. A man on a mission.
DM Mitch and Hugh Thursday March 7th, 2024 7:27:57 AM
Previously… Torry distracted herself while Mortimer dug and then told Gnubert he did a good thing while suggesting Mortimer rest as she updated Spot on what happened Drack lays hands on Mortimer and Gnubert and tells them to rest as he removes their fatigue Gnubert thanked his friends for their help then they make the long trip back. Presently Torry saw Hank was staying so she figured it was only polite to introduce herself and her profession and asks Hank or is it Hankie what he does only to get distracted by the clatter that arose. Hank has breakfast then exchanges greetings with Loryn, Manolo and Ash explaining he was sent to investigate the odd travelers before standing and exchanging pleasantries with Torry and explaining what he does. When he hears the commotion he suggests they investigate. Drack stays seated while appraising Hank and asks if the strangers are friends or something he needs to be concerned about. He also tells Hank he learned his trade with the caravans back in the day and that if there is any word of trouble they can look into it. When he hears the bells and sees the stranger in the slay he activates detect evil but does not detect anything from the jolly man on the sleigh Loryn slides another helping toward Hank as he gives Manolo and Ash a sideways look asking about folding undercooked bread covered in unseasoned tomatoes and cheese before sliding them breakfast omelettes. Upon hearing the commotion he suggests Herostan got into Grog’s special brew again. Gnubert introduces himself to Hank and asks how the man is Ash follows after Drack and wonders what is going on since they killed the witches and saved the day only to enter a weird timeline. Manolo introduces himself as a Rogue by trade and leaves it for the others to investigate Mortimer enters the room and asks if Hank is the white haired bloke handing out loot only to point out he can’t be because he is a young buck and the bloke he inquired about is a proper geezer before exiting the front door on a mission.
The giant man seems quite in his element as he passes out things to people, each with some sort of comment on the gift or the person. For each person he reaches into his sack and just seems to grab something at random, yet after a glance he seems to know exactly who it’s the perfect gift for from the people crowding around. As the party come to see him they get something just like everyone else, though perhaps a bit different from the masterwork shovel a local gardener got.
To Torryn he hands a set of bracers, ”Some beautiful bracers for a beautiful dancer!” (bracers of armor +3, decorated to match her style).
To Mortimer a strange blue stone cold to the touch, ”A chilling stone for your silver sickle” (A sharpening stone, 1 use, that will enchant your sickle to gain the +1 and frost enchantments)
To Manolo a colorfully wrapped box, ”Don’t shake that one lad, it’d be an explosive surprise.” (opening it reveals a necklace of Fireballs)
To Gnubert he holds out a pink and green sphere that floats out of his hand to start circling the Gnome. ”That stone will make you a real charmer, as long as you don’t mind it floating around to much.”
To Loryn a thick length of wood about a foot long. ”Cast your spells through that and they’ll be even more powerful” (Lesser Metamagic Rod - Empower)
To Ash a silvery cloak that reflects light in a rainbow of patterns, like a soap bubble. ”That’ll protect ya lad, should you find magic being thrown your way.” (Cloak of Resistance +3)
To Drack a small red gem like might go on the pommel or hilt of a sword. ”That will go on your blade and make it even sharper.” (increase your +1 Elven Curved Blade to +2)
To Hank a pair of sturdy boots. ”You look like you’ve been traveling a lot lately. These will suit you well, and even let you go new places!” *(Slippers of Spider Climb)
After several hours of passing out gifts to pretty much the whole town the strange man waves people back. ”Enough, enough! I’ve got to get some food in me, and my sack is running low! I wish you all a blessed year, may all your endeavors prove fruitful!”
Hank (Tanner) -- AC 24/12/22 -- CMD 24 -- HP 70 Thursday March 7th, 2024 9:43:02 AM "Oh, this is definitely good-weird." Hank takes the new pair of boots with gleeful thanks. "Just what I always wanted! Say, stranger, before we get you some food, would you mind telling us your name? Who are you? Where are you from? I think the local townsfolk are so pleased they might just make a statue of you, and I bet they would want to know what to put on the plaque." The big warrior gives a playful wink.
Drack (Chris J) - hp 73/73 - AC 20 Thursday March 7th, 2024 9:54:29 AM
Drack just gives the stranger an odd look as he is handed his gift in the shape of a sword. a bit stunned, he simply says "Uh.. thanks" and is at a loss for words following that. Once the stranger leaves, and he returns to the Inn, he will detect evil upon the gift. Apparently the saying that there is no such thing as a free lunch does not apply here.
Drack (Chris J) - hp 73/73 - AC 20 Thursday March 7th, 2024 10:12:10 AM
"It appears i will be making a trip to the catacombs if anyone wants to join me." Drack will then excuse himself and head off to the entrance to the catacombs.
Torrynashkabbeth (Nick) HP:40/40 AC:20 F11: R13 W:15 Thursday March 7th, 2024 11:05:43 AM
"Oh!" Exclaimed Torryn in surprise. She looked at the bracers in awe and smiled. "These are ....wonderful. But...I've nothing to give you in return." She then made to hand them back, but the man would have none of it. So, by means of equitable gift giving, she kissed the man on the cheek and pirouetted delightfully before darting away. her old bracers (AC:+1) she resolved to give to the church that they might be sold for monies for charitable causes. She'd come into some more money of late and it was only right and proper that such wealth was shared around.
After swapping her new bracers - she really liked the butterflies and birds engraved into them - she caught up with Drack. "Yes, I'd like to come with you. they always have nice stuff there. Maybe I'll find something to go with my new bracers. Aren't they pretty?" She delighted in displaying the excellent craftsmanship of her new accoutrements.
AC 13 HP 45/45 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K Thursday March 7th, 2024 12:12:10 PM
Loryn grins as he opens the long box and gives a cry of "Ha ha! Thank you thank you!".
The mention of the Catacombs , Loryn has a general question for the group. Donating, selling, what are we doing with all of the Darkwood ?
I think sell the (2) MW staff, but not sure on the wands or arrows as none of that is actual items. just material that could be used to make said items. DM invterention call here
Acid Ray 8/8 30' range 1d6+3 Innate Used: 1st lvl: 7/7 2nd lvl: 6/6 3rd lvl: 4/4
Treasure: All MW quality -2 Darkwood Staff -40 Darkwood branches for arrows -4 Darkwood wand Map case 2 Candles of Healing (2 uses left?)
Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11 ( 15 Mage Armor)(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 12/36 Thursday March 7th, 2024 7:18:38 PM
Ash takes his new robe and mouths the words thank you to the benefactor.
"This is truly a different world. It has to be... right?"
Gnubert Glitterdust (Wade) AC: 20 T: 14 F: 18 R: 9 F: 14 W: 11 HPS: 51/51 CMD: 6 Thursday March 7th, 2024 8:17:15 PM
Gnubert stammers a word of thanks to the man handing out the gifts. "That was unexpected for sure. I wonder if there is a catch somewhere?" Gnubert reintroduced himself to Hank before following Drack to the Catacombs.
Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.): ac:20/16/19. temp/hp:50/50. icy disposition Friday March 8th, 2024 12:27:10 AM
Mortimer's eyes go wide as ever when presented with the blue sharpening stone. It was ice cold to the touch. Possibly cold enough to cause him harm if he wasn't already resistant to the cold.
"Uhhh, don't know what ta say, but this is absolutely brilliant! Ta muchly, your a right proper mate!"
When Mortimer goes back to the boarding house, he takes out his mithril sickle and begins to slide the blue stone against the blade. At first, it acts like a normal sharpening stone, but then something wondrous happens. With each stroke, the metal begins to sparkle and countless spiraling frozen fractals spread across the curved blade. Suddenly the blade grows twice it's size with a shimmering, icy blade. Mortimer looks on in awe as a frosty mist wafts from his silvery ice sickle.
DM Mitch and Hugh Friday March 8th, 2024 6:42:21 AM Hank says this is definitely the good kind of weird and asks after the stranger’s name, who he is and where he is from. Drack gives the stranger an odd look as he is handed his gift and just says uh…thanks. Later he detects evil on it but finds no aura of evil. Drack then informs the others of his attempt to go to the catacombs. Torry tells the stranger that these are wonderful but she has nothing to give in return. As the man would have no take backs she kisses him on the cheek pirouetting away and decides to donate her old bracers to the church. She also says she’ll go with Drack to the catacombs. Loryn opens the box with a Ha Ha Thank you Thank you and at the mention of the catacombs ask the others what they are doing with all the darkwood they obtained from the previous adventure. Ash takes the robe and mouths thank you before asking if they are in a different world. Gnubert stammers a word of thanks to the man handing out gifts and wonders if there is a catch somewhere. He reintroduces himself to Hank before heading with some of the others to the catacombs. Mortimer’s eyes goes wide when presented with the cold sharpening stone and he says he doesn’t know what to say but this was absolutely brilliant. He tells the strangers he is a right proper mate before heading off to use the stone and impart upon his sickle a frosty mist.
The strange gift giving man does take a moment to answer various questions and comments from various people before he takes his leave.
To Hank he says, “My name is Hiroshi Katsu, who I am is a traveler, collector and philanthropist amongst other things. I wear many hats. As to where I’m from, let's just say elsewhere. Perhaps our paths will cross again before I’m on my way?” To Drack he says, “You’re quite welcome.” To Torryn he says, “You know what they say?. It is better to give than receive.” and when she kisses him on the cheek, it turns a bright red color. To Loryn he says, “You are welcome, You are welcome.” Hiroshi mouths the word “You’re welcome” back to Ash To Gnubert he says, “No catch, just presents.” To Mortimer he says “Indeed. And I hope you are a right proper mate to others in kind.”
More people in the crowd yell questions at him but it’s becoming clear he’ll never get out of there if he keeps answering so he signals his deer and they pick their way through the crowd and down the road. ”To all a good day!” he calls as he heads down the road towards the fancier part of town.
WIth the excitement over things quiet down for a few days. No new strangers show up and there’s a chance for things to calm down and maybe do all the shopping and down time stuff the party needs.
The Darkwood turns out to be fairly simple to sell if the party wants to - the material on it’s own is valuable, worth about 10gp a pound. Arrows weigh 3 lbs per 20, wands only an ounce, a staff is 4 lbs. Roughly 15 pounds of darkwood, which sells for half price or 75 total gold. A quarterstaff has a price of 0g, so those being usable items still adds nothing to the price.
Torrynashkabbeth (Nick) HP:40/40 AC:20 F11: R13 W:15 Friday March 8th, 2024 9:11:30 AM
"Oh, so should we sell the Darkwood, or should I make some arrows out of it?" Torryn queried. She didn't mind either way as it wouldn't make an appreciable difference to that which got shot. It probably made more sense to sell. She could make arrows out of more commonly available wood. They were only going to get burnt anyway. There was no possibility of her reusing her arrows. (Her bow sets them on fire)
So it was, that after her visit to the catacombs Torryn spent her mornings practicing her 'Dance Steps', stretching and obviously, tending to Spot. The afternoons she devoted to making arrows. She wasn't that skilful at it - unlike her father; so was forced to take each step slowly. (Taking 20 for each arrow.)
(Profession, Fletcher: +5)
After this laborious work, Torryn, who definitely wasn't the best at sitting still practiced her sparring and followed that with yet more impressive stretching. Then it was off to check on Spot again. Spot was very curious and so needed to be updated on everything that happened.
Drack (Chris J) - hp 73/73 - AC 20 Friday March 8th, 2024 9:38:00 AM
"The bracers are lovely Torry. As far as the Darkwood, i will get what i need from the catacombs to help me survive each fight. If anyone wants it, take it. If not, sell it and donate the proceeds to those in town that need them."
AC 13 HP 45/45 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K Friday March 8th, 2024 1:34:53 PM "A nice map case might come in handy someday, So I think Ill keep that. To the rest, Warrds basement might be a nice place. The Masterwork staves especially." Torrynashkabbeth takes the arrow shafts and Loryn will take the rest to the temple and donate it to the basement vault for any future people to possible use.
Loryn too had a trip to the Catacombs planned as well as a trip to Bearclaw keep to set up a fund for the families taking in the children to have some extra funds for food, clothing, apprenticeships and such. For the 20 children, Loryn would be putting up 100gold for each of them, for the family to tap into. He trusted the general council of Windhorne to keep everything above board and really it was not so great a sum that anything untowards would be done with it.
Acid Ray 8/8 30' range 1d6+3 Innate Used: 1st lvl: 7/7 2nd lvl: 6/6 3rd lvl: 4/4
Hank (Tanner) -- AC 24/12/22 -- CMD 24 -- HP 70 Friday March 8th, 2024 3:58:58 PM
Hank accepts the new boots with gleeful thanks. "Hey, guys. If any other weirdness pops up let me know. I'm going to be trying out these new boots." The big man passes the time by exploring the town, taking every opportunity to walk vertically or upside down on any surface that will not upset local townsfolk.
Manolo (Michael A) -- AC 21/17/16 -- CMD 20 -- HP 43/43 ;-1lvl HP35/38,-1 all checks d20=3 ; Friday March 8th, 2024 6:52:10 PM
Manolo is happy to receive a gift from this stranger....perhaps it was one of the woldian gods in disguise, helping them to prepare for the future. Manolo voices his gratitude for the gift.
"I wouldn't mind getting a few arrows that fit the cross bow", Manolo says referring to the Darkwood material.
"Is it any good against any specific things, living or not living?", he asks the group while his mind is completely blank on the matter.
d20=3
Gnubert Glitterdust (Wade) AC: 20 T: 14 F: 18 R: 9 F: 14 W: 11 HPS: 51/51 CMD: 6 Sunday March 10th, 2024 9:52:45 PM
Gnubert splits time waiting in the Catacombs, and helping the community out. The cleric really plans on spending some time getting to know Hank.
Scene 1 - “A problem to be solved”
DM Mitch and Hugh Monday March 11th, 2024 9:30:24 AM Torry asks for clarification on the dark wood while thinking it would be better sold considering she can make arrows from other more regularly available wood and her bow sets her arrows on fire. She spends her morning practicing her ‘dance steps’ and tending to Spot and her afternoon working on arrows. Drack tells Torry the bracers lovely and that he’s going to get what he needs from the catacombs to survive. If anyone wants it, take it, if not, sell it and donate the proceeds to those in town that needs them. Loryn opines that a nice map case might come in handy and he’ll keep that. As for the rest he suggests donating it to the temple of Warrd. He also had some other errands to run. Hank accepts the new boots and tells the others to keep him abreast of any weirdness while he goes exploring. Manolo is happy to receive a gift from the stranger wondering if it might be a God in disguise. He says he wouldn’t mind ammunition for his crossbow and asks if darkwood is good against any specific enemy types. Gnubert splits time waiting in Catacombs and helping the community out. The cleric plans to spend time getting to know Hank.
After some discussion and shopping around the party manages to sell off their treasure and maybe buy a few upgrades. It’s about two days later when a boy comes by with a message. ”Mr. Katsu would like you to meet him at dinner time tonight at the Hearthfire Inn. If for some reason that is a problem he requests you send me back with a better day and time for you to meet.”
Knowledge local 15 Highlight to display spoiler: { the messenger is the innkeeper’s son, a lad who’s convinced he’s too good for most of the rabble in town. That he’s willingly come in person on what he would consider a lowly errand indicates that this Mr. Katsu has made a grand impression on the boy or his father. }
Hank (Tanner) -- AC 24/12/22 -- CMD 24 -- HP 70 Monday March 11th, 2024 9:51:30 AM
Hank happily accepts the invitation. "So, guys, is the Hearthfire Inn any good? What kinds of food do they have? Are they keto-friendly? I have to maintain gains. Am I right?" He gives a wink, showing the question is mostly in jest.
Torrynashkabbeth (Nick) HP:40/40 AC:20 F11: R13 W:15 d20=18 ; Monday March 11th, 2024 10:14:52 AM
Torryn had no idea what Hank was talking about. It was all gobbledygook to her. Despite being local - well, sort of: she'd lived outside town with her parents on a smallholding, she'd never visited the Hearthfire Inn. it was a bit too pricey. She was confident though, that they'd have no issue with accommodating her largely vegetarian diet. At least that was cheaper. She'd spent most of her money in the catacombs. her thoughts, as mercurial as ever, switched, unsurprisingly, to dancing. Perhaps there would be some after the meal. That cheered her greatly.
"Oh, sure, yes, we can do that," Torryn told the young lad: a young lad that was actually taller than her. Then again, most were. Her mind was already on other things - what to wear! As there might be dancing she'd wear her tunic. It was short and left her legs free. Considering her lack of inches, her legs were proportionately long. It would, she decided, be good to show them off. Then what to do with her hair? So many things to consider and so little time!
Drack (Chris J) - hp 73/73 - AC 20 d20=15 ; Monday March 11th, 2024 10:32:31 AM
Drack returns from the catacombs, showing a fancy new belt, headband and a haversack more or less matching Loryn's.
Oddly enough, when the boy brings the message from Mr. Katsu, Drack seems to know the boys situation(local knowledge 15), and the likely importance of the request.
As Torry responded that the group would be at the meeting, Drack just nodded. Assuming another problem had sprung up, he waits until the boy leaves and turns to Loryn."Looks like you better restock our food supplies. if you need any gold, let me know." As usual, Drack was all business. Finding evil to vanquish that topped a set of Hags seemed a far stretch to his mind though.
"Never been there Hank. Food is usually good around here. Home cooked, and will fill your belly. Not too many folks can outdo Loryn in the kitchen though."
Lay hands: 9/10
Spells: 1st Level: Divine Favor, Bless, protection from evil 2nd Level: Shield other
AC 13 HP 45/45 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K Monday March 11th, 2024 12:16:57 PM
Loryn agrees with the others that they would attend and gnome reassures his friends that Hearthfire Inn was a fine establishment and perhaps had the best fare in all of Windhorne.
Though he appreciates the compliment from Drack
Acid Ray 8/8 30' range 1d6+3 Innate Used: 1st lvl: 7/7 2nd lvl: 6/6 3rd lvl: 4/4
Gnubert Glitterdust (Wade) AC: 20 T: 14 F: 18 R: 9 F: 14 W: 11 HPS: 51/51 CMD: 6 d20=4 ; Monday March 11th, 2024 7:04:30 PM
Gnubert has no idea who Mr. Katsu is and follows the others to the inn. "I have little idea Hank, I am still relatively new to the area, and the group. I guess we will both find out." Gnubert Curls one arm up, and flexes his tiny bicep, "Yes gains are important" he says with a smile towards Hank.
Mortimer states, "Sure, why not. If the man's willin' ta throw around the bread and honey, I'd say we let'em."
When the boy leaves after delivering the invitation, he adds, "If he can get that uppish git ta be his errand boy, the man 'as some pull, yeah."
Manolo (Michael A) -- AC 21/17/16 -- CMD 20 -- HP 43/43 ;-1lvl HP35/38,-1 all checks d20+9=19 ; Monday March 11th, 2024 10:13:10 PM
Manolo agrees with Mortimer observation and conclusions.
Local knowledge 19
Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11 ( 15 Mage Armor)(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 12/36 Tuesday March 12th, 2024 7:46:25 AM
"Dinner sounds great" Ash adds. The mage looks at the way his new robe folds around his arms.
DM Mitch and Hugh Tuesday March 12th, 2024 9:34:41 AM Hank asks if the Hearthfire in is any good as he accepts the invitation. Torry although local had never been to the Hearthfire Inn but turns her thoughts toward vegetarian faire and dancing Drack comes back from the catacombs and nods along reminding the others to replenish their food supplies. He also tells Hank he’s never been but the food is usually good in the hamlet. Loryn agrees with the others and tells them the Hearthfire Inn is a fine establishment with perhaps the best fare in all of Windhorne Gnubert has no idea who Mr Katsu is and he guesses the party will find out Mortimer figures if the man is willing to throw around bread amd honey they let him. Also that their host has pull considering the messenger Manolo agrees with Mortimer’s observation and conclusions
The party has no objection to the meeting and head towards the Inn around dinner time. The Hearthfire is well known as the fanciest place in town, a place most of the locals don’t hang out in much but rich travelers looking to do some trade or head to the big city often don’t mind the high price for the extra comfort. They even host events sometimes and have more than enough room for it.
The party are met at the front door by a elven man who solemnly confirms their identity before leading them into the three story building. The inside is all polished woodwork, fancy carpets, and the great fireplaces that the place is named after, roaring merrily to ward off the cold.
The man who met them at the door gives them a moment to admire the entryway before speaking. ”The meeting is on the third floor gentlemen, madam. I will show you the way there if you’ll please follow me.”
It’s a bit of a circuitous route to get to their destination. It feels like they cross the building at least twice to reach the top, and the hallways are completely empty. Either no one else is staying here, or their host has hired out the entire building.
Perception 18 Highlight to display spoiler: { actually now that you look there are subtle signs of disrepair. Little scuff marks on the wood here and there. A banister that’s a bit wobbly. Only every other lantern lit. Not that many high rollers have been passing through town other than the weird stream of strangers the last few weeks, and the place might be going on hard times. Perhaps the more direct route has damage to obvious to allow to be seen lest the place lose reputation. }
Drack (Chris J) - hp 73/73 - AC 20 Tuesday March 12th, 2024 9:36:01 AM
After a bath, and asking one of the numerous spells casters to do an instant clean of his armor and clothes, Drack moves with the others to their dinner meeting.
Lay hands: 9/10
Spells: 1st Level: Divine Favor, Bless, protection from evil 2nd Level: Shield other
Drack (Chris J) - hp 73/73 - AC 20 d20+8=26 ; Tuesday March 12th, 2024 9:40:56 AM
(Simultaneous post.)
Drack follows through the winding path to get to their meeting. Drack observes the disrepair, and possible issues with the inn(perception check 26). He tries to make a mental to note to himself to speak with the others on the matter. Perhaps they should invest in something locally, or buy it outright.
Hank (Tanner) -- AC 24/12/22 -- CMD 24 -- HP 70 d20+1=17 ; Tuesday March 12th, 2024 10:19:05 AM
Hank follows along with the rest of the party, quietly observing and making a mental map of the building.
Torrynashkabbeth (Nick) HP:40/40 AC:20 F11: R13 W:15 d20=12 ; Tuesday March 12th, 2024 10:50:37 AM
Torryn followed along, occasionally twirling around to see everything and often with a skip in her step. She'd put her silvery hair up in side bunches. The ends still seemed to sparkle as the lamp light caught them.
She felt it was curious that the Hearthfire wasn't quite so resplendent as she'd been led to believe. Still, it was still more upmarket than anywhere else she'd been, so wasn't overly critical of the few failings that she saw. She just hoped that such shortcomings didn't translate to the food. She'd been rather spoilt of late with the quality of Loryn's culinary delights.
AC 13 HP 45/45 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K d20+11=24 ; Tuesday March 12th, 2024 3:49:11 PM
Loryn obliges Drack with a few castings of Prestidigitation and puts a few on himself as well. The gnome was always willing to dress up and be presentable. and if any of his fellows look like they could benefit from a bit of sprucing up, the gnome was not above casting another spell to help them out in spite of themselves.
Loryn's eye catches several telltale markers about the place and thinks that while the Hearthfire might have been doing quite well for years, it appears a reinvestment fund was not put together and time is catching up with the old girl. Information put to the back of his mind, as much as he was here for the accomodations, he was more interested in the fare and even more so on the specifics of why The Argentium was invited.
Acid Ray 8/8 30' range 1d6+3 Innate Used: 1st lvl: 7/7 2nd lvl: 6/6 3rd lvl: 4/4
Gnubert Glitterdust (Wade) AC: 20 T: 14 F: 18 R: 9 F: 14 W: 11 HPS: 51/51 CMD: 6 d20+16=23 ; Tuesday March 12th, 2024 7:19:49 PM
Gnubert follows the others along the winding path. As they walk through the building he cant help but notice (Perception DC 23) the damage, and disrepair. The cleric makes a note of it as he continues to follow.
Manolo (Michael A) -- AC 21/17/16 -- CMD 20 -- HP 43/43 ;-1lvl HP35/38,-1 all checks d20+10=20 ; Tuesday March 12th, 2024 8:56:43 PM
Manolo wonders how Mr Katsu has a place like The Hearthfire in such a disrepair. perception 20
Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11 ( 15 Mage Armor)(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 12/36 d20+6=7 ; Tuesday March 12th, 2024 10:36:35 PM
Ash id oblivious to any damage or worn areas. To him the place is in imaculate condition. He follows with the others to the third floor.
Mortimer is very impressed by the decor of the Hearthfire Inn. He's never been exposed to such lavish surroundings. Having grown up on the streets, sleeping in the attics, crawl spaces and tool sheds, he considered himself a rich man when given his own room with a bed and chamberpot. What a fine chamberpot it is, he thinks, but it doesn't compare to this place.
Not wanting to appear naff, Mortimer does his best not to gawk. (Bluff: 15)
DM Mitch and Hugh Wednesday March 13th, 2024 8:39:48 AM Drack has a bath and asks one of the spellcasters to clean his armor and clothes before heading to the dinner meeting. He observes the winding path to get to the meeting and sees the disrepair and possible issues and tries to make a mental note to speak to the others on the matter Hank follows along with the rest of the party observing and making mental notes of the building. Torry followed along occasionally twirling around to see everything and often with a skip in her step. She put her silvery hair up in side bunches and the ends seem to sparkle as the light caught them. She felt curious that the Hearthfire wasn’t quite so resplendent as she’d been led to believe. It was still more upmarket than anywhere else she’d been and wasn’t overly critical of the few failings that she saw; she just hope it didn’t translate to the food. Loryn obliges Drack with a few castings of Prestidigitation and puts a few on himself as well. The gnome was always willing to dress up and be presentable and he’s more than happy to help the others spruce up. He catches the telltale markers about the place and that a reinvestment must not have been put together and time had been catching up with it and puts this in his mind for later use. Gnubert follows the others along the winding path and as they walk through the building he can’t help but notice the damage and disrepair. He makes a note as he follows along. Manolo wonders how Mr Katsu has a place like the Hearthfire in such a disrepair Ash is oblivious to the damage or worn areas. To him the place is in immaculate condition and he follows along to the third floor. Mortimer is very impressed by the decor of the Hearthfire Inn as he’s never been exposed to such lavish surroundings. Having grown up on the streets and sleeping in attics, crawl spaces and tool sheds, he considered himself a rich man when given his own room with a bed and a chamberpot and he thinks what a fine chamberpot and Mortimer does his best not to gawk.
On the third floor the party reaches a large meeting room. This room is immaculate, with deep red carpets, marble walls, and little roman style columns supporting the roof. A roaring fireplace makes the whole room pleasantly toasty, and a massive meeting table dominates the room.
Said table is covered in food, still steaming from the oven. There’s more than enough for everyone, and whomever set this up clearly did some research to offer some choice dishes and favorites for the various party members.
At the head of the table is presumably your host. Pushing back his great carved oak chair, he rises and raises his arms in greeting. ”Ho Ho! Welcome! Come, eat and be merry for a time before we talk business. I have a proposal that I think you’ll find quite interesting!”
Hold on a second, that’s the guy who was giving out gifts. He’s in more formal wear instead of that red outfit from before but the beard and rosy cheeks are the same, and the twinkle in his eye is unmistakable.
Torrynashkabbeth (Nick) HP:40/40 AC:20 F11: R13 W:15 Wednesday March 13th, 2024 9:21:34 AM
"Oh, that's very generous of you." Said Torryn eyeing the various vegetable dishes. Colcannon! that was yummy and there - some sprouts with chestnuts. The garlic pickle and caramelised onion chutney would complement both wonderfully.
"There's such a lot here. Would it be okay to take back what's not eaten - for the orphans?" She asked, knowing full well that she'd barely make a dent on the lavish banquet.
Hank (Tanner) -- AC 24/12/22 -- CMD 24 -- HP 70 Wednesday March 13th, 2024 11:03:10 AM
Hank gives a small bow from the waist to acknowledge their host before taking a seat at the table. He slides a silver tray from the middle of the table, heavily burdened with a whole roast chicken. He tucks a cloth napkin into his collar, presses his hands together in a short prayer of thanks, and then proceeds to methodically devour the chicken. Forgoing utensils, he rips and tears and eats, until little is left but bone and cartilage in the span of just a few minutes. He eats like a soldier.
Hank daintily dabs at the corners of his mouth with the napkin, picks up a goblet of mead, and gives a toast. "Thank you for this lovely meal, Mr. Katsu. your generosity is very appreciated."
Drack (Chris J) - hp 73/73 - AC 20 Wednesday March 13th, 2024 11:36:08 AM
Drack eats, as the option for a good meal has been limited while on the road. Drack sits and waits for Mr. Katsu's offer. Most curious as to why a person that can freely give away expensive items of magical nature wishes to speak with them. Since the others had already thanked him, Drack, in his usual stoic self, waits for the reveal.
AC 13 HP 45/45 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K Wednesday March 13th, 2024 4:30:23 PM
A joke leaps to the gnomes mind 'Keep your 'Ho' there' but first impression are important and he refrains. It strikes him a bit odd that Katsu was just dolling out gifts and decided this additional fare was needed to impress The Argentium. But, gifts and food and mysteries were all things he loved and so the night was a delight already.
"This is quite outstanding, but it must be said, entirely unnecessary." But some jokes need to be said and with a smile as he slides a plate of pouting over.
"Yes yes of course. I believe it's been a solid month since Torrynashkabbeth has heard a good proposal"
Acid Ray 8/8 30' range 1d6+3 Innate Used: 1st lvl: 7/7 2nd lvl: 6/6 3rd lvl: 4/4
Hank (Tanner) -- AC 24/12/22 -- CMD 24 -- HP 70 Wednesday March 13th, 2024 5:52:17 PM
Hank raises an eyebrow. "...does she get a lot of proposals?"
Gnubert Glitterdust (Wade) AC: 20 T: 14 F: 18 R: 9 F: 14 W: 11 HPS: 51/51 CMD: 6 Wednesday March 13th, 2024 6:53:29 PM
Gnubert closes his mouth, and slides to the back of the party, "I knew there was a catch," the cleric mutters to himself waiting til last to sit at the table.
Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11 ( 15 Mage Armor)(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 12/36 Wednesday March 13th, 2024 9:53:45 PM
Ash grabs a plate of food, while listening to the others.
"Thanks for the hospitality" he says to the host.
Torrynashkabbeth (Nick) HP:40/40 AC:20 F11: R13 W:15 Thursday March 14th, 2024 5:41:52 AM
Torryn pouted prettily at Hank. It wasn't difficult to see why the gorgeous half-elf with long, silvery hair might receive frequent proposals. She quickly turned her attention back to their host as she wanted permission to collect food to take back, before addressing her own wants.
DM Mitch and Hugh Thursday March 14th, 2024 9:12:06 AM Torry tells their host that the spread is very generous and asks if it is okay if they take back what is uneaten to the orphans. Hank gives a small bow from the waist to acknowledge their host and then proceeds to devour a whole roast chicken before thanking their host for the meal. Drack eats, enjoying the good meal considering their options for such had been limited on the road. He wonders why someone who can give such lavish gifts wishes to speak with them and waits stoically to hear the proposal. Loryn suppresses a joke lest he spoil a first impression and since he loves gifts and food and mysteries he’s having a good time. He says the spread is astounding but unnecessary before remarking it has been a while since Torry heard a proposal. Hank raises an eyebrow and asks if Torry receives a lot of proposals Gnubert closes his mouth and slides to the back of the party saying he knew there was a catch, muttering to himself as he takes his seat last amongst his companions. Ash grabs a plate of food and thanks their host for the hospitality Torryn pouts at Hank
Hiroshi Katsu says to Torry, “Of course you can take the leftovers from our meal to those less fortunate; in fact I insist upon it!”
To Hank and Ash he says, “You are both quite welcome.”
To Loryn he says, “On the contrary, sharing a meal is never unnecessary. I find breaking bread with someone is one of the best ways to find common ground and create lasting friendships.”
To Gnubert he says, “No catch. I merely desired the pleasure of your group’s company at this meal and after we are all done I have a proposal which I hope you’ll hear me out on. You can then ask questions about my proposal to which I will try to answer to the best of my ability and then you can take some time to think about it. If you accept, which I hope you will, we can work out further details later but on the chance you decide my proposal just isn’t for you then you can be on your way no harm no foul and no harm done with respect to any future interactions we may have. You have my word.”
With that he speaks no more of business, instead turning the conversation to an amusing anecdote involving an elven priestess and a donkey. He’s the picture of the perfect host, listening when spoken to, laughing at the party’s jokes, and amusing them with his own stories. It takes almost an hour for the meal to end, and at the end the servants, who have been filtering in and out through a door hidden behind the columns to refills things or provide assistance as needed, take all of the food away leaving only drinks and small snacks behind.
After a few moments of contemplation Mr. Katsu speaks. ”Now to business. I suspect this proposal of mine will be right up your alley as the Argentum is an adventuring company is it not?...and what is more adventurous than a hunt for a lost treasure that hasn’t been seen in quite some time? he asks with a twinkle in his eye.
Drack (Chris J) - hp 73/73 - AC 20 Thursday March 14th, 2024 10:26:21 AM
Drack quickly focuses full attention on the statements of Katsu. Normally, he would be one to sit and listen, and ponder the information while letting Loryn speak for the group. but his interest was just piqued.
With a smile, Drack replies. "It appears Sir, that you have dangled a bit of bait in front of us. Adventure is indeed right up our alley. As far as treasure goes, it interests some of us more than others. Please continue on good sir. I would like to hear the details of this."
AC 13 HP 45/45 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K Thursday March 14th, 2024 12:38:33 PM
Loryn gives a nod in recognition of the statement on common ground over food. It certainly could. Treasure hunting? With Drack taking lead, Loryn simply leaned in as well as he could to hear more and express his interest in the subject.
Acid Ray 8/8 30' range 1d6+3 Innate Used: 1st lvl: 7/7 2nd lvl: 6/6 3rd lvl: 4/4
Torryn slowly ate her fill. The food was delicious, so she kept her portions sizes small that she might try as many different things as possible. Her tastes though, seemed to run quite differently to the others. She sampled none of the meats, but couldn't resist the smoked salmon. To drink, she partook of a glass of sparkling wine; a rose. Thereafter she stuck with water. It was, she felt, underrated. It cleansed the palate wonderfully that each dish could be savoured the better.
With the end of the meal, she watched with some concern as all the food was taken away. There were many that would be delighted with that. She wanted to take as much of it away with her as possible. Seeing how much there was, she felt it likely that she'd need Spot's help.
Once the offer was made Torryn couldn't help but blurt."It's not under water is it? We sort of tend to struggle under water." She then looked at the others, somewhat embarrassed. Why couldn't she be more like Dracky? He was always so calm and sensible and he never forgot stuff like she did.
Hank (Tanner) -- AC 24/12/22 -- CMD 24 -- HP 70 Thursday March 14th, 2024 1:12:06 PM
Hank laces his fingers and sits forward, his interest piqued. "As the 62nd Rule of Acquisition states, The riskier the road, the greater the profit. Please tell us more of this treasure."
Gnubert Glitterdust (Wade) AC: 20 T: 14 F: 18 R: 9 F: 14 W: 11 HPS: 51/51 CMD: 6 Thursday March 14th, 2024 7:29:28 PM
Gnubert blushes slightly when he is addressed, however he can't help but wonder if there is a catch. TANSTAAFL...There ain't no such thing as a free lunch rings in his ears in his father's voice. Gnubert eats with the others, and turns to listen closely when he hears the words treasure hunt.
Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.): ac:20/16/19. temp/hp:50/50. icy disposition Thursday March 14th, 2024 9:38:23 PM
Mortimer smiles wickedly. The tension in the room is delicious.
"Crikey ... acquisition, such a fancy word for smash and grab," he says with a chuckle as he takes another sip of his wine. At this point, Mortimer is beginning to realize this wine must be the good stuff. He thinks he might actually be a little drunk. He snickers at the thought.
"When exactly didya last see this treasure?"
Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11 ( 15 Mage Armor)(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 12/36 Thursday March 14th, 2024 10:01:07 PM
Ash chuckles at Mortimers joke.. but turns to the host, eager to hear his answer to Mortimers question.
Manolo (Michael A) -- AC 21/17/16 -- CMD 20 -- HP 43/43 ;-1lvl HP35/38,-1 all checks d20+8=17 ; Thursday March 14th, 2024 10:18:15 PM
Manolo looks at disbelief around and at an appropriate or unappropriate time, Manolo will simply ask, "SO...what's in it for you?"
Sense motive 17
DM Mitch and Hugh Friday March 15th, 2024 10:03:08 AM Drack’s interest was piqued and he smiles and informs their host that adventure is up their alley and as treasure goes it interests some of them more than others. Loryn gives a nod in recognition of the statement on common ground over food before leaning in and letting Drack take lead as he listened to the details of the treasure hunt. Torry sampled many of the dishes in small portions perhaps the ones some of the other party members ignored. When the food was taken away she watched with some concern and figures she’d need Spot’s help to take as much as she could over to those that needed it. When a treasure hunt is mentioned she blurts out the question that it isn’t underwater is it as that is a palace the party has struggled with in the past. Hank references something called the 62nd Rule of Acquisition and asks for more details. As he does so is that a trick of the light or has his ears gotten bigger and his forehead larger? Nope just a trick of the light for now Gnubert blushes slightly when he is addressed but still wonders if there is a catch as he remembers his father telling him that there was no such thing as a free lunch. He eats with the others and turns to listen closely when hears the words “treasure hunt” Mortimer smiles wickedly as the tension in the room is delicious. He points out that acquisition is such a fancy word for a smash and grab and chuckles as he sips wine realizing that this is the good stuff and he might just be a little drunk so he asks when Hiroshi Katsu last saw the treasure. Ash chuckles at Mortimer’s joke but then turns to the host eager to hear the answer to the question Manolo looks in disbelief and at an appropriate or inappropriate time Manolo simply asks, “SO…what’s in it for you.”
Hitori Katsu says to Drack, “I’m glad I’ve assembled the right group of people then. I will continue momentarily as to the details if you will allow me to address the questions and comments of some of your companions first.”
To Torry he says, “I don’t know if the treasure will ultimately be found under the water or not; for you see it is lost to time. However, I can assure you that the last place the treasure was reported to have been was not underwater so that could be a good sign. However if you pursue the treasure and you eventually find yourself needing to go underwater to follow in its search for or even retrieve it, there are folks who specialize in underwater recovery whose services we can engage for help if we need it so fear not.”
To Hank he states, “Yes and the 9th Rule of Acquisition states ‘Opportunity plus instinct equals profit, While the 209th Rule of Acquisition states, ‘Sometimes the only thing more dangerous than a question is an answer.’ He pauses and continues, “I bring opportunity and you as an adventuring party provide the instinct and together we profit. However, the question is where has the treasure gotten to and the answer to that may be dangerous but again you are an adventuring party so I would hope you could handle it.”
To Mortimer he says, “While I’ve seen my share of time pass I personally have never laid eyes on this treasure. However records of its existence go back hundreds if not thousands of years and it was last seen several hundred years ago per the documentation I have.”
Hiroshi Katsu says to Manolo, “I want this lost treasure found and delivered to me and in exchange I will make certain your adventuring party is handsomely rewarded. Even if you can’t locate the treasure but you happen to turn up some further clue of where it might be in your search and you decide for whatever reason to not see it through to the end I will reward you, just not as handsomely as I would have had you brought me the treasure, but merely continuing the search and telling me where it isn’t and where it may yet be is valuable and I will recognize and reward the effort.”
He continues to the group as a whole. “You could say I’m a bit of a collector of unusual magic items. I’ve been researching this one in particular for a little while now.”
He carefully pulls some ancient looking scrolls and a book from a satchel by his chair. With great care he unrolls one and waves the party forward to look at it, but doesn’t let anyone touch it lest they damage it. It shows a decorative box made out of a silvery metal and adorned blue gems of various sizes.
”This is the Treasure Box of Svengaxi. Thought to be lost to the ages. It is rumored to be made of mithral and adorned with flawless sapphires. Open the box and it should contain a colored orb with a band of platinum running diagonally across its surface. The box apparently can produce multiple of these orbs. The orbs do something but that is a little vague as the record I found (indicating a second scroll) seems to have lost that context. I also do not know where specifically the treasure box can be found just that it is supposed to be somewhere in what is now the vicinity of Windhorn Hamlet.”
Hiroshi indicates the book. “This is the journal of a quartermaster who maintained a place called Spire armory which per this description of his journey to the place seems to be situated between Dragon Bay and The Red Hills the way modern Windhorn Hamlet is. Apparently the quartermaster who wrote this was also charged with documenting any treasure this company based out of the Spire Armory found. In this journal it says they found 1 ornate mithril and sapphire box, radiates magic.”
”I’ve narrowed down the search to this general area, but have made no further progress these last few days. I’m not a local, I don’t know the area, the people, or the possibilities. So now I hope you’ll be amiable to helping me complete my search. Don’t feel pressured to answer now - I’ll answer whatever questions you have now and you should take a day to think about it and discuss it among yourselves. There’s no telling how long or hard the job will be and you shouldn’t accept on impulse.”
Drack (Chris J) - hp 73/73 - AC 20 Friday March 15th, 2024 10:25:11 AM
Drack takes a quick look at the others to gauge their thoughts, but speaks regarding his own. "Personally, i was hoping this would be an adventure that involved the destruction of evil, with the end goal being to return an item to civilization that would further that. I know my friends are not opposed to a basic treasure hunt, so if they wish to proceed, i will join them. As we travel, should there be instances of people needing help, or something nasty needing to be destroyed, that will happen. It does not appear that you have a timeline for this, so i will do what the rest of the Argentium wishes to do."
AC 13 HP 45/45 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K Friday March 15th, 2024 11:34:03 AM
This was sounding a lot like something right up Manolo's alley. While Loryn has lived in Windhorne for nearly 3 decades, he never studied the history of the town or area. That always became a someday project. The gnome did have a single question.
"The box is said to be magical and can produce multiple orbs. Any word or rumor on if these orbs are magical and what they might be able to do?"
As far as he was concerned, as long as the answer to his question was not some questionable use, a treasure hunt through the Red Hills and about Dragon Bay seemed like quite an adventure. There as little to go on, but Gnubert had 'connections' so to speak and there could be some assistance from that direction.
Loryn nodded to Drack and looked to the others for reaction, though he was fairly confident he could guess to each one.
Acid Ray 8/8 30' range 1d6+3 Innate Used: 1st lvl: 7/7 2nd lvl: 6/6 3rd lvl: 4/4
"I don't get it." Said Torryn after a moment. "How can an orb have a diagonal band? I mean, it's an orb, right? So any way can be up. If I turn it that way the band is horizontal, or the other way to make it vertical. Diagonal doesn't make much sense.....to me. Oh, and I'm totally with Dracky. It sort of feels 'wrong' to be charging around after just 'treasure'. What if something important - like rescuing people happens? That's what The Argentium does - it helps people. We've done a lot of helping. So if this is, you know, important to helping; like maybe stopping Bad people getting the magical thingummy, then sure, we could try that, I guess." Like Drack, Torryn would much rather do something 'helpful': helpful to others. This only seemed to help the nice man who'd been so kind to them. Of course, that wasn't a bad thing, but it somehow still felt a little bit self-serving as only he and they would appear to be reaping the benefits.
Drack (Chris J) - hp 73/73 - AC 20 Friday March 15th, 2024 12:27:33 PM
Once Torry speaks, Drack looks at her. “Well said. I am In agreement.” The Paladin gives her a quick nod of approval and respect, hoping she picks up on it.”
Ash looks at the item, as well as thr map, and tries to recall any info he knows about either.
Manolo (Michael A) -- AC 21/17/16 -- CMD 20 -- HP 43/43 ;-1lvl HP35/38,-1 all checks d20=6 ; Friday March 15th, 2024 11:49:53 PM
Manolo tries to gauge the motives again...but his mind was dwelling on treasure. "Sounds like an adventure,, I am in agreement of looking and hunting for this treasure, on one condition....that your intention is of curiosities and not of ill or evil!".. Manolo says.
Sense motive 14 (rolled 6)
Hank (Tanner) -- AC 24/12/22 -- CMD 24 -- HP 70 Friday March 15th, 2024 11:59:21 PM
Hank nods. "Terms are needed before agreement. What is the reward?"
Hank (Tanner) -- AC 24/12/22 -- CMD 24 -- HP 70 Saturday March 16th, 2024 12:04:54 AM
He looks sideways at the paladin and winks. "Don't worry, Drack. More money means you can donate more to charity. Isn't that doing good?"
"That's true, but we can't let me interfere with helping others. What is we are 'contracted' to do something, but need to go rescue someone or something? Also, people are less trusting of people that do things for money: they can be bought. The Argentium doesn't work like that. For me, I'd be happy enough to help, as long as nothing more urgent comes up Mr Hiroshi has been very generous; not just to us, but lots of other people in town. It would be wrong to ask for money. We should repay a kindness with a kindness." She confidently 'corrected' Hank, feeling sure that her 'big brother', Drack would back her up. She also expected that Gnubert and Loryn would hold similar views. About Manny and Morty, she wasn't quite so sure.
Hank (Tanner) -- AC 24/12/22 -- CMD 24 -- HP 70 Sunday March 17th, 2024 11:16:39 AM
Hank shrugs. "Fair enough. It is your life and your choice." He looks at Mr. Katsu and winks, "Looks like you just found a bargain, my friend! You only need to pay some of us."
Gnubert Glitterdust (Wade) AC: 20 T: 14 F: 18 R: 9 F: 14 W: 11 HPS: 51/51 CMD: 6 Sunday March 17th, 2024 7:12:31 PM
Gnubert nods at both Drack and Torry's words, "Well said sister, well said. Good for goods sake is definitely the best thing any of us can do. I will not say money is the root of all evil but it does cause some folks to make well poor decisions. I am know nothing of this box, or orbs you speak of. My concern is this, What if they are evil? What if they have the ability to destroy a community, town, village, or ecosphere?" Gnuber smiles a bit his siblings would be proud of his use of that word. "What then? What if we decide this chest, and it's orbs need not ever see the light of day?"
Gnubert looks around, "however, much like Drack I will defer to the group. I follow my brothers, and sisters, as well as have faith in their decisions."
DM Mitch and Hugh Monday March 18th, 2024 8:57:16 AM Drack says that he hoped this would be the type of adventure that involved the destruction of evil with the end goal being the return of an item that would further that however he is not opposed to a basic treasure hunt but if they come across someone needing help or something nasty needing to be destroyed it will take higher priority over the treasure hunt but since there doesn’t appear to be a timeline he will do what the rest of the Argentium wants to do. Loryn figures this thing would be up Manolo’s alley and asks for further information on if the orbs are magical and what they might be able to do. He wanted to make sure that the answer was not something questionable and then the adventure would be on as Loryn’s ‘connections’ could help them move forward Torry says she doesn’t get how an orb can have a diagonal band as since it is an orb any direction can be up. She states that she agrees with Drack that it sort of feels wrong to be charging around for treasure when something important could be happening like needing to rescue people. She says if it was important to helping like stopping bad people getting the magical thingamabob they could try that otherwise while this was helping it seemed to her rather self-serving Drack says he is in agreement with Torry and gives her a nod of approval and respect. Ash looks at the picture of the item and the map and tries to recall any info he knows about either. He thinks he may have vaguely heard something about a mythical box that involved the conjuration school of magic which may or may not be this treasure box of Svengaxi. As for where it may be he knows that places exist that have information on historic Windhorn Hamlet. Manolo tries to guage the motives again but his mind was dwelling on treasure. He says he’s in agreement in looking and hunting for the treasure as long as Hiroshi’s intention is of curiosities and not ill or evil. Hank says that terms are needed and asks the nature of the reward. He tells Drack that more money means that he can donate it to charity and isn’t that doing good? Torry says that what Hank says is true but they can’t let a contract interfere with helping others. She points out that people are less trusting of people who do things for money as they can be bought and that the Argentium doesn’t work like that. She says for her personally she’d be happy enough to help as long as nothing more urgent comes up as Mr. Hiroshi has been very generous to not just them but many people in town and while it would be wrong to ask for money they should repay a kindness with a kindness. Hank tells Torry fair enough as it is her life and choice and then winks at Mr. Katsu telling him he found a bargain as it is looking like only some of them will be paid. Gnubert nods at both Drack and Torry’s words. He tells Torry that what she said was well said and that Good for goods sake is definitely the best any of them can do. He doesn’t say that money is the root of all evil but it does cause some folks to make poor decisions. Also he knows nothing of the box or the orbs and asks if they turn out to be evil and have the capacity to destroy a community, town, village or ecosphere. What if they decide the chest and orbs need not see the light of day. He then says he will defer to the group.
Hiroshi replies to Drack and Torry’s concerns about other things coming up, “I understand your nature as adventurers. I think my timeframe is long enough that should some emergency or evil appear you must deal with you should be able to do so and then return to the search. Additionally you can always report to me what you have found and quit the job or simply locate the armory and stop there. Of course you could also simply decide to not take the offer and if that is your choice then as I said there will be no hard feelings.”
Hiroshi says to Lorryn, “Well if the Treasure Box of Svengaxi and the magic box in the Spire Armory inventory are one and the same then the balls could be magical as the box radiated magic. However I’ve told you all I know - documentation from such an ancient time is exceedingly rare and details sparse.” Sense Motive DC 35 Highlight to display spoiler: { You get the feeling that maybe Hiroshi knows something about the orbs he isn’t telling }
Hiroshi shrugs and says to Torry, “Well the description just says the bands are diagonal. Who knows what that means? Maybe they orient themselves so that they are always diagonal to the up direction? Who knows?”
Hiroshi says to Manolo, “My intention is regarding curiosities and is not ill or evil intent and I’m willing to swear to that even under a zone of truth spell.”
After the exchange between Hank and Torry, Hiroshi says, “Firstly, anything you find in the armory or elsewhere the adventure takes you that isn’t the box is yours. After the job is complete, or when you decide you no longer wish to continue it, I intend to pay you in magical items. That makes things a little tricky to write up in a contract however - I don’t want to promise, say, a magical belt of strength, only for you to find one on the adventure. You have seen how generous I am with gifts, when I owe a true debt I am even more generous.”
He pauses as an idea seems to strike him. ”Additionally, since you are so concerned with good and evil, how about I check within my collection and those of the other collectors I know for something that is either evil and dangerous and I can deliver to you for its safekeeping or destruction or something that is good and of benefit to the fight against evil and you can restore it to civilization so that others may benefit from its usage?”
Hiroshi says to Gnubert, “Well if I’m right about the treasure box being the same the Spire Armory had in their possession presumably they could detect evil. Other items entries in the journal were described as radiating evil and since it only says the box radiated magic it was presumably not an evil box only a magical one. Until actually recovering the box and learning it’s powers it is impossible to say one way or the other though. I can assure you that I have little interest in actually using it - my interest is in curiosity and collection. There are artifacts in my collection I will never let see the light of day, and I know other collectors of similar ideals. I can assure you, under a zone of truth if you so desire, that should the box prove to dangerous to be used it will vanish into my care never to be seen again. Besides, such a possibility is all the more reason we should find it - in my experience powerful relics, good, evil, or neutral, always turn up again eventually. Better we claim it and ensure it is either used for good or never used at all then leave it in some long lost dungeon for some less scrupulous adventuring group to someday find.”
After addressing everyone’s current questions he looks at a fancy clock on the wall and then around at the group. ”It is growing late. You have concerns, but as I said you do not have to answer today. Think about it, discuss it amongst yourselves, perhaps do some preliminary research, and when you’ve made your decision just ask for me here at the inn. The food you wished to give out should be waiting for you downstairs. I wish you all a good night.”
Drack (Chris J) - hp 73/73 - AC 20 Monday March 18th, 2024 9:39:47 AM
Not being able to sense anything untoward from Hiroshi, and feeling like the man seemed like he could be taken at face value, Drack will just nod at the end. He will then look at others without speaking. If they agreed to accept on the spot, he would not be opposed, but it was likely that the matter would be discussed amongst themselves privately, prior to acceptance. The mans terms were quite favorable, and allowed the party a good bit of latitude.
Lay hands: 9/10
Spells: 1st Level: Divine Favor, Bless, protection from evil 2nd Level: Shield other
Torrynashkabbeth (Nick) HP:40/40 AC:21 F11: R13 W:15 Monday March 18th, 2024 11:51:07 AM
Torryn stood and thanked Hiroshi for his generous hospitality, not least towards the orphans, assuring him that they would be even more grateful. Like Drack, she refrained from giving an answer on the spot, not least because she didn't have the right to speak for others. For herself though, she saw no problem with undertaking this quest. Gaining magic and then using that magic to thwart evil seemed like a good idea. Whilst she had no great need, nor desire for money, she could always put such coin to good use helping others less fortunate than herself.
Hank (Tanner) -- AC 24/12/22 -- CMD 24 -- HP 70 Monday March 18th, 2024 2:46:59 PM "I wonder," Hank scratches at his chin in thought as they make their way back to the boarding house, "Is the weird stuff connected to Hiroshi? Or connected to his search? Maybe they are searching for the same thing. Maybe it is acting as a sort of 'weirdness magnet.' Maybe finding the box will stop the weirdness from being drawn to the area. Whatever the case, I think it would be worth our time, both civically and financially."
AC 13 HP 45/45 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K Monday March 18th, 2024 4:31:13 PM
Loryn sat back as a trio in the group, to him, start resetting the whole point of them coming together. the new comber was certainly outspoken, which didn't bother the gnome in the slightest. It occurred to him suddenly that no one knew much about this human at all. Supposition could of course be made, based on manner, dress and carry and Loryn was perfectly content with the ones he made. Most in the noble race were good at heart, given the option to be so and opportunity and 'Hank' would be presented with both.
The more specific the conversation becomes, the less interested the gnome becomes. That is until Hiroshi mentions brining items of evil bent to Windhorn. At this a truly sour expression comes across his face. It is evident to all that he very much dislikes the thought.
The hour grows late and dinner concludes. Loryn offers a final thanks to Hiroshi for the fine meal and the opportunity. "A fascinating proposition to say the least."
Once back at Minerva's Common House, Loryn keeps his thoughts simple, "I see no reason not to look into discovering this lost Armory and what might have been left behind or what might have moved into the area as a base of operations. Arguments against?"
Manolo (Michael A) -- AC 21/17/16 -- CMD 20 -- HP 43/43 ;-1lvl HP35/38,-1 all checks d20=2 ; Monday March 18th, 2024 8:17:31 PM
Manolo doesn't seem to understand the curiosity that this strange person has towards possibly dangerous items. Manolo remembers the troubles they had with the book and Angus and The Kandruth Walker. Before they go out he will ask firmly "Are there any people or groups who might be after this thing or rather quite simply, Mr Hiroshi , Any Nemesis ? "
At Minerva's he will say to the group "I am going to ask Grog about this tomorrow, he might know something that might prove useful"
Sense motive is less than a natural 20 so fail (:
Gnubert Glitterdust (Wade) AC: 20 T: 14 F: 18 R: 9 F: 14 W: 11 HPS: 51/51 CMD: 6 d20+18=26 ; Monday March 18th, 2024 10:21:48 PM
Gnubert smiles and nods to Hiroshi, "Thank you sir. You have given us much to think on. We appreciate it." Gnubert sticks out his hand to shake Hiroshi's and bounds downstairs to gulp in the fresh night air.
Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.): ac:20/16/19. temp/hp:50/50. icy disposition d20+4=8 ; Monday March 18th, 2024 10:52:23 PM (Sense Motive: 8. My natural 20 would've still failed by 11 points. Let's hope Gnubert rolls a natural 20.)
Sensing nothing out of the ordinary, Mortimer finishes the last of his wine before they depart. As they meet back at the Boarding House, and hears Gnubert's plans to go talk with Grog, Mortimer adds, "The oldest Windhorners may know a thing or three 'bout the Armory. They're buried in the cemetery. Maybe we should go dig somethin' up!"
Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11 ( 15 Mage Armor)(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 12/36 Tuesday March 19th, 2024 12:07:51 AM
Ash keeps any final questions to himself, before h3ading out with the others. Once out of ear shot, he quietly asks.. "the guy gives us powerful gifts. I don't want to seem unappreciative of my gift.. but it just seems like alot. I don't mind doing the mission.. but we all need to be on the same page."
Torrynashkabbeth (Nick) HP:40/40 AC:21 F11: R13 W:15 d20=12 ; Tuesday March 19th, 2024 5:41:33 AM
(No Nat 20 from Torryn)
"As things stand, I don't see that we can do much harm by starting some enquiries. Given that Mr Hiroshi has said we can drop this task at any time of our choosing, I don't see that we are over committing; not that I'll be bringing any icky stuff back to town. If he really wants stuff like that, then meeting us in neutral territory would be safer. I just hope that we don't find anything like that So, basically - no, I've no great objections at all. Also, Spot would like the exercise." Torryn concluded with a smile.
Hank (Tanner) -- AC 24/12/22 -- CMD 24 -- HP 70 Tuesday March 19th, 2024 8:57:43 AM "Copacetic. Let's tell our mysterious benefactor we are green. He claps Torryn on the shoulder and smiles, "And don't worry. The only icky stuff I would bring back to town would be for the taxidermist."
DM Mitch and Hugh Tuesday March 19th, 2024 9:13:29 AM Drack didn’t sense anything untoward from Hiroshi figures the man could be taken at face value. He nods at the end and looks at the others without speaking. He would not be opposed if they accepted on the spot but he figures it is more likely it will be discussed amongst themselves prior to acceptance. The terms were quite favorable and they allowed the group plenty of latitude Torry stood and thanked Hiroshi for his generous hospitality not the least towards the orphans, assuring him that they would be even more grateful. Like Drack, she refrained from giving an answer on the spot not least because she didn’t have the right to speak for the others. Personally she saw no problem with undertaking this quest. Hank wonders out loud as they make their way back if the weird stuff is connected to Hiroshi or his search or maybe the search is acting as a sort of weirdness magnet and finding the box will stop the weirdness from being drawn in their direction. Loryn thinks that the newcomer is certainly outspoken which isn’t a bad thing. It occurred to him though that no one knew much about this human at all but supposition could be made based on his manner dress and carry. As most of the noble races were good at heart given the option and opportunity to be so he figured Hank would be presented with both. The more specific the conversation becomes the less interested the gnome is until mention of bringing evil artifacts into the hamlet at which he bristles. When the meeting concludes he offers up “a fascinating opportunity to say the least.” Manolo doesn’t understand the curiosity this strange person has towards possibly dangerous items. Before they leave he asks Hiroshi if there where any people or groups who might be after this thing or if Hiroshi has any nemeses Gnubert smiles and nods at Hiroshi and tells the man they have been given much to think about before offering a hand shake Mortimer senses nothing out of the ordinary amd finishes his wine before they depart. Ash keeps his opinions to himself and once they are out of earshot of Hiroshi that his gift seemed like a lot and that he doesn’t mind doing the mission but everyone needs to be on the same page
Hiroshi answers the last question as the party heads out. ”To my knowledge I am the only one pursuing this artifact, but in my experience rival treasure hunters can show up in all manner of unusual ways. Word of lost artifact has a way of spreading no matter how quiet you try to keep things.”
The party discusses things as they head downstairs to get the food for the orphans. Without their guide it’s a bit confusing and creepy to be wandering the empty halls but the route back was easy enough to remember. It’s about halfway through the second floor when the ambush happens.
The doors on either side of the hall open up in front of the party and a minotaur in plain white robes steps out flanked by two small panther beastfolk women in fancier robes with gold trip. The women raise their hands and make a short chant. Everyone must save twice vs DC 22 will save. On failure for either Highlight to display spoiler: { Everything sloooows doooown. You can only take 1 move or standard action per turn, not both, and you get -1 to hit, AC, and reflex saves.}
Behind the party two humans in robes similar to the minotaur emerge to surround the party. The group make no further hostile moves, merely glaring down at the party with crossed arms.
Torrynashkabbeth (Nick) HP:40/40 AC:25 F11: R13 W:15 d20=10 ; d20=12 ; d20=9 ; Tuesday March 19th, 2024 9:59:45 AM
Will saves: 25 & 27. Spellcraft: 9, but untrained so that can be ignored.
"Do you mind? We've got food to take to some unfortunates and we really don't have time for chanting." Despite her request, Torryn felt that this wasn't 'normal so she swiftly called up her Fey Armour. Ghostly, tumbling leaves cascaded around her in an endless waterfall. "Now, if you would be so kind as to step aside." She turned sideways on to the trio in the front, presenting the smallest target area, just as Agratha had taught her. She was pleased that she'd remembered that and to detect for evil. Of course, invoking her Fey Armour had taken priority; so she'd do the detecting thing next - just to be sure.
~~~ Spells etc: 5/day Mage Armour. used 1. Shield
Fey Spark: used 0/6
Lay on Hands: used 0/5 Stunning Fist: used 0/4 Smite Evil: used 0/1
~~~
AC 13 HP 45/45 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K d20+22=35 ; d20+22=24 ; d20+15=31 ; d20+7=24 ; Tuesday March 19th, 2024 10:27:05 AM
The ambush is quite complete for Loryn and the spell takes hold without a fight. ignore to +22, should be +6 making both rolls fail The gnome does identify the spell readily enough "Slow spells? To get our attention perhaps, well you have it. Be Ready. Now talk quickly before this goes further"
Loryn Readies in an attempt to counter the next hostile spell. Dispel Check 24
Acid Ray 8/8 30' range 1d6+3 Innate Used: 1st lvl: 7/7 2nd lvl: 6/6 3rd lvl: 4/4
Drack (Chris J) - hp 73/73 - AC 20 d20+10=13 ; d20+10=25 ; Tuesday March 19th, 2024 10:30:16 AM
(Will save 13 and 25)
Drack feels slower and more sluggish, and his hand instinctively goes to the hilt of his sword when the appear and cast, but holds his hand before drawing. Drack activates his detect evil, and waits for Loryn to figure out whats going on before he pulls his sword.
"Loryn, it appears some people may wish to have a conversation. they appear not to have learned manners in the process."
Lay hands: 9/10
Spells: 1st Level: Divine Favor, Bless, protection from evil 2nd Level: Shield other
Gnubert Glitterdust (Wade) AC: 20 T: 14 F: 18 R: 9 F: 14 W: 11 HPS: 51/51 CMD: 6 d20+11=20 ; d20+11=29 ; Tuesday March 19th, 2024 4:58:17 PM
Gnubert steps outside and fails the first will save and passes the second. The cleric feels sluggish and draws his light mace. "That's rude to say the least. Can't stand poor manners."
Manolo (Michael A) -- AC 21/17/16 -- CMD 20 -- HP 43/43 ;-1lvl HP35/38,-1 all checks d20+6=8 ; d20+6=24 ; Tuesday March 19th, 2024 7:33:09 PM
Manolo starts to feel like either he or time is slowing down or perhaps it was going too fast. He moves close to the humans or are flanking them from the back. First save fail Second save success
Hank (Tanner) -- AC 24/12/22 -- CMD 24 -- HP 70 d20+5=23 ; d20+5=17 ; Tuesday March 19th, 2024 8:41:31 PM
(Will saves 23 and 17)
Hank shrugs off one of the spells, but the other makes him feel like he is moving through hip-deep molasses. He frowns. "Called it. More weirdos looking for this weirdness magnet." He draws, taking an active stance with his weapon held ready. "All right, I'm sure you think you have something very important to tell us. Go ahead and explain to us in cryptic mumbojumbo that we should abandon our quest, we are meddling with forces beyond our comprehension, we are doomed if we continue, et cetera, et cetera."
Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11 ( 15 Mage Armor)(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 12/36 d20+9=13 ; d20+9=22 ; d20+15=21 ; Tuesday March 19th, 2024 9:14:09 PM
Ash fails the check, and begins to slow down... but luckily he knows what spell it is and also knows the counter.
Ash casts haste over the party. 1st - Magic Missle x4, Sleep, Charm Person 2nd - acid arrow x 2, Glitterdust, See Invis 3rd - fireball, Hold Person 4th - Summon Monster IV, Dimension Door
Hank (Tanner) -- AC 24/12/22 -- CMD 24 -- HP 70 Tuesday March 19th, 2024 10:31:42 PM *fist bump for Ash*
Mortimer also feels the slowness take over his body. The second spell, he shakes off. But all his vigor returns with Ash's haste spell. He then nonchalantly offers up a little constructive criticism to the two lady casters.
"Listen Luv," he says addressing the first beastfolk woman, "You did alright, but ya got lucky, yeah. But your friend there ... needs ta work on 'er technique a bit."
He slowly turns his gaze to the two humans with their arms crossed, "Uh huh! And who are you two; standin' there all criss cross peat moss?" He asks inquiringly with his trademark wicked smile. There is no warmth in his smile. In fact, most would describe it as chilling (Intimidate: 31). The room does feel noticeably colder*.
(* Mortimer has Rose's Temperature Control active [aka. Mortimer's Icy Disposition] and he's mentally controlling the air in the room to be come colder in order to enhance his Intimidation.)
DM Mitch and Hugh Wednesday March 20th, 2024 8:07:32 AM Torry explains they don’t have time for this as they need to deliver food to the less fortunate as she brushes off both spells and swiftly calls up her fey armor. She then asks them to step aside as she turns to the side to present a smaller target and casts detect evil.
She does not detect the presence of evil in these newcomers
Loryn fails to resist either spell but can identify them readily enough. He tells the others they have the group’s attention and that they should talk quickly before this escalates. Drack feels slower and moves his hand towards his sword hilt instinctively. Drack activates his detect evil and waits for Loryn to figure out what is going on before drawing his weapon. He postulates that some people might wish to have a conversation but they appear to not have learned any manners.
He does not detect the presence of evil in these newcomers
Gnubert fails against one of the spells but draws his light mace and agrees that it is rude to say the least and he can’t stand poor manners. Manolo feels like time is either too slow or too fast as he slowly moves close to the humans flanking them from the back Hank shrugs off one of the spells but the other makes him feel like he is moving through molasses. He says he called it and here are more weirdos for the weirdness magnet. He draws and takes an active stance with his weapon held ready. He tells them to go ahead and explain in cryptic mumbojumbo that they should abandon the quest or they are dealing with forces beyond their comprehension or they are doomed if they continue, et cetera, et cetera. Ash fails to resist the effects of the spell but knows the counter and casts haste on the party. Mortimer feels the slowness come over him but vigor returns with Ash’s haste spell. He tells the one caster she got lucky and the other one needs to work on her technique. He uses Roses Temperature Control to lower the temperature while he intimidates the 2 humans approaching them from the rear.
The minotaur’s stern glare loses some impact as he tries and fails to not smile at the party’s defiance and prediction of how this is going to go. In a deep baritone he says, “The human warrior has the gist of it. Pick any of the reasons he outlined or make up your own and go no further in pursuing The Treasure Box of Svengaxi. This time you have been warned but if you persist in searching for it it and our paths cross again, next time you won’t be so fortunate.” He cracks his knuckles to emphasize the point.
Message delivered the minotaur, his panther folk casters and the 2 human flunkies go to leave via the rooms they came out of.
Torrynashkabbeth (Nick) HP:40/40 AC:25 F11: R13 W:15 Wednesday March 20th, 2024 8:35:41 AM
"No." Countered Torryn. "That is insufficient. You explain nothing and issue barely veiled threats. Worse, you open with a magical assault. What we do, we only do if it brings weal to others. If you and others would seek to stop that, there will be trouble and next time ....you won't be so fortunate." She smiled inwardly. 'Weal'. It was one of her father's words. So few others used it nowadays. He would be proud of her. Yes, she could have attacked and attacked with alacrity. With Ash's spell boosting her speed, she'd be faster than anyone, but all they'd done was a clumsy warning. So, she'd issued her own, hopefully less clumsy one in return. It seemed that the Treasure Box of Svengaxi was many things to many people. They'd need a lot more information before retrieving it from its present whereabouts. If no one could find it, no one could fight over it. Again, it seemed The Argentium had much to discuss, but it would have to wait. Delivering food was th priority right now.
Hank (Tanner) -- AC 24/12/22 -- CMD 24 -- HP 70 Wednesday March 20th, 2024 8:50:51 AM "If our paths cross again, I will beat you like my own personal pinata." Hank points his bat at the other party as they leave. "And I'll shove my foot up the back sides of your little friends and wear them like slippers."
When they disappear, he turns to the party. "Well, I'm officially twice as motivated as before. Let's do this."
Drack (Chris J) - hp 73/73 - AC 20 Wednesday March 20th, 2024 10:20:16 AM
Drack ignores Hank at the moment, and turns and looks at Loryn. He says nothing, just raises a single eyebrow.
"Somebody fix their spell please. We have nothing more to say in this place. Let us finish our evening elsewhere."
Drack momentarily waits for what he hopes is removal of the slow spell, and then leads the party back to deliver the food, followed by the walk to the Inn.
Lay hands: 9/10
Spells: 1st Level: Divine Favor, Bless, protection from evil 2nd Level: Shield other
DM Mitch and Hugh Wednesday March 20th, 2024 10:46:03 AM
(Last round Ash cast haste which counters and removes slow. No one is slowed anymore.)
Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11 ( 15 Mage Armor)(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 12/36 Wednesday March 20th, 2024 11:37:38 AM
"Cowards" ash says to himself. "I'd say you scurried away like rats, but that would be a disrespect to Oslo."
AC 13 HP 45/45 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K d20+7=16 ; Wednesday March 20th, 2024 11:39:24 AM
Loryn returns Drack's eyebrow with one of his own and quickly follows up Torrynashkabbeth's comment, "Insufficient indeed. Like putting a jolly candy like button in a room of children and telling them not to press it."
If the group has already withdrawn he calls out after them, "Why? What harm does this box pose to the Wold? What will be awakened or unleashed or disturbed by its location?"
The haste spell had countered one of the spells upon him, Loryn looks to Dispel the other, but his mind is not on the task and the attempt fails because now it matters so the die roller did its thing....
Another thought in his mind, Loryn begins heading back to the 3rd floor. These folks were here to stop the Argentium from continuing further and they may have also paid their benefactor a visit, or may be on the way to see him now. Regardless, he should be informed.
Acid Ray 8/8 30' range 1d6+3 Innate Used: 1st lvl: 7/7 2nd lvl: 6/6 3rd lvl: 3/4
"I don't think you need to inform Mr Hiroshi, Loryn. He's likely used to all this sort of thing and besides, they've gone back into their rooms. If you want me to go, I can and be back before you guys get to the door."
[/i](At present Torryn moves 70'. If Loryn is slowed still, he'll only be moving 10'. It would be far easier to task Torryn with advising their would-be benefactor/employer of these events)[/i]
Manolo (Michael A) -- AC 21/17/16 -- CMD 20 -- HP 43/43 ,-1 to Hit,Reflex,AC Wednesday March 20th, 2024 8:18:14 PM
When they find themselves in a safe place. Manolo simply asks, "Are they the baddies? "
Gnubert Glitterdust (Wade) AC: 20 T: 14 F: 18 R: 9 F: 14 W: 11 HPS: 51/51 CMD: 6 Wednesday March 20th, 2024 10:40:34 PM
Gnubert shakes his head as Ash's spell speeds things back to normal. The cleric watches the group turn to leave and speaks up " excuse me but an apology is owed! There was no cause for this attack!"
DM Mitch and Hugh Thursday March 21st, 2024 6:53:05 AM Torry tells the other group that what they have done is insufficient and then counters with her own warning. She figures the Argentium has much to discuss but food delivery is the priority right now. Hank says if their paths cross again he’ll beat the minotaur like his personal pinata and wear the panther casters like slippers. He tells the party he’s twice as motivated as before Drack ignores Hank and returns to the task of food delivery Ash inwardly calls the other group cowards and would haave likened them to rats but didn’t want to show disrespect to Oslo. Loryn calls after the other group asking what harm does the box pose to the Wold and what will be awakened or unleashed or disturbed by its location but is met with silence. Another thought crosses his mind and he wants to go to the 3rd floor to check Hiroshi. Torry thinks there isn’t a need to inform Mr. Hiroshi as he’s probably used to this sort of thing and besides the other group has left already but she offers to go back and tell him if Loryn really think it is important given the dancer’s superior speed. Manolo asks if the other group are the baddies Gnubert calls after the other group that an apology was owed and there was no cause for an attack.
The ambushers go back through the doors they came out of, leaving them open behind them. On the other side is not a hallway as might be expected but two unused rooms with a connecting door. One by one they step into the open windows of the rooms and fly off into the night with no visible means of doing so.
The last of the group, one of the human pair, pauses at Gnubert’s statement. “I’m sorry this was necessary. You may understand one day.”
And with that the mysterious group is gone, leaving behind only refuse. There are signs they were waiting for the party to pass a good while - bits of discarded packaging for trail rations, a card game abandoned mid-hand, and some cake and ice cream they didn’t finish off and must have been taken from the Inn’s stores.
There is debate about going back to let Hiroshi know of the assault. It is late, but since you just left the meeting he might still be awake. Alternatively you can meet him in the morning with your decision on the job and the story of the confrontation.
DM Mitch and Hugh Thursday March 21st, 2024 7:00:17 AM
For keeping things from escalating and sticking to your principles when considering the job everyone gets a hero point.
Torrynashkabbeth (Nick) HP:40/40 AC:25 F11: R13 W:15 d20=3 ; d20=8 ; Thursday March 21st, 2024 7:43:35 AM
Torryn quickly offered to inform Hiroshi of these events and was off and away before any more could be said. She wasn’t happy about the situation. The Argentium had been ambushed, but with no real intent to do harm. The spells had had no effect (on her) and they’d simply spoken. Yet why go to all that trouble? They could have simply arrived at the guest house and asked to chat. They weren’t bad people exactly; far from it – her Sacred Dancer senses would have detected that. As for Mr Hiroshi; he’d been very generous to them. That hardly seemed the methodology of an evil person. Still, it was rumoured that devils could live for centuries, if not far longer and so were capable of great patience in their machinations. She therefore felt it prudent to keep an open mind about events. They would certainly need to discuss this in detail tomorrow, preferably over one of Loryn’s excellent breakfasts.
Upon reaching the door, she knocked and waited.
(If admitted, she’ll explain about the attack whilst carefully assessing his response and detecting for evil intent regarding the group that had waylaid them.)
Perception: 14 to note any reaction. Sense Motive: 12 to assess honesty.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Spells etc: 5/day 1 used. Mage Armour. (In effect) Shield
Fey Spark: used0/6 1st lvl: used 2/5 Lay on Hands: used 0/5 Stunning Fist: used 0/4 Smite Evil: used 0/1
Drack (Chris J) - hp 73/73 - AC 20 Thursday March 21st, 2024 9:18:07 AM
Drack leads the others out. once they are outside, he will simply state "They were not evil." he then will lead them to the orphanage and back to the Inn. "I think we should speak of this matter privately. I would be surprised if someone was not listening at this point."
Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11 ( 15 Mage Armor)(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 36/36 Thursday March 21st, 2024 10:27:03 AM
"If they're not evil, like you say, then this makes even less sense and puzzles it up more. I say we get the box, and figure out what to do with it outselves. Perhaps council with people or beings not tied to this. "
Hank (Tanner) -- AC 24/12/22 -- CMD 24 -- HP 70 Thursday March 21st, 2024 10:38:57 AM "You don't need to be evil to be an antagonist." Hank helps carrying the food to the orphanage. "You also don't need to be evil to deserve a whooping. Securing the box and learning more sounds like the next step." He accompanies the party to the boarding house.
AC 13 HP 45/45 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K Thursday March 21st, 2024 11:06:58 AM
Loryn waits with the group while Torrynashkabbeth returns to speak with Hiroshi. Not only should he know what just happened, but Loryn wanted to make sure he was not accosted and perhaps he had some insight on to whom these guardians of the Box might be.
After the leftover food is delivered to the dozen or some homes that have taken in the children, as Windhorne has no orphanage, a very up too late gnome simply crawls into bed. Everything can wait until the morning.
Acid Ray 8/8 30' range 1d6+3 Innate Used: 1st lvl: 7/7 2nd lvl: 6/6 3rd lvl: 3/4
Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.): ac:20/16/19. temp/hp:50/50. icy disposition d20+1=20 ; d20+6=14 ; Thursday March 21st, 2024 11:53:32 AM
When they get back together, Mortimer makes known a few of his observations. "This gang were all wearin' the same robes and all, yeah. Do any of ya know of secret cults, conclaves and whatnot?"
He considers what he saw and searches the dark recesses of his mind for an answer.
"Did their robes look like the ones we found in that seaside tomb?"
Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.): ac:20/16/19. temp/hp:50/50. icy disposition Thursday March 21st, 2024 12:16:36 PM
Mortimer offers up a few of his thoughts. "I once knew of a cult called the Order of Entropy. They were nihilists whose ambitions include watchin' the decay of all existence. Of course, I 'ad ulterior motives for joinin'; mainly to liberate their valuables. Their membership gradually declined into nothin'."
Manolo (Michael A) -- AC 21/17/16 -- CMD 20 -- HP 43/43 ,-1 to Hit,Reflex,AC d20=4 ; Thursday March 21st, 2024 9:17:08 PM
Manolo thinks about anyone or any group that might be helpful regarding this matter. Local knowledge 13
DM Mitch and Hugh Friday March 22nd, 2024 6:58:57 AM Torry had offered to inform Hiroshi and was off before more could be said. She thinks about the ambushers and Hiroshi and decides to keep an open mind about events and that the party needs to discuss this in detail preferably over one of Loryn’s excellent breakfasts. She knocks and waits to be admitted.
Drack leads the others out and simply states the other group was not evil and he suggests not discussing things further in the open lest someone be listening at this point. Ash says if the other group wasn’t evil then things make less sense and are puzzled up more. He suggests they get the box and figure out what to do with it themselves and if need be avail themselves of council not tied to the treasure hunt. Hank points out one does not need to be evil to be an antagonist. He also points out one does not need to be evil to deserve a whooping. Loryn insists the group wait for Torry to get back before distributing the food as he wanted to make sure Hiroshi was not accosted and hear if their would-be benefactor had any idea of whom the rival group could be. Mortimer observes that the group were all wearing similar clothes and asks if anyone knows of any secret cults, conclaves or whatnot and if they resembled the garb from the sea-side tomb. He gives a story of a cult he once knew. Manolo thinks of anyone or any group that may be helpful regarding this matter.
Torryn only: Highlight to display spoiler: {
Torryn knocks on the door. After a wait she possibly knocks again before it occurs to her that, wait, this was a meeting room, of course he wouldn’t be here. Fortunately after a pause the door across the hall opens and Hiroshi is there peering blearily at her while wearing a nightcap and bathrobe.
When he sees Torry his face brightens momentarily but then he notices she’s alone and his mood shifts to one of perhaps disappointment.
The disappointment fades and he goes back to playing host “I wasn’t expecting to hear from you so soon. Forgive my manners and my state of dress. Please come in.”
He opens the door wide so that Torry may enter and gives a slight bow as she enters the room.
“I don’t like to make assumptions but given that you are here alone does that mean the Argentium has decided not to take my offer and you are the messenger to let me down easily”
When Torry explains what had happened he asks, “Good heavens, was anyone hurt?” showing legitimate concern for the party’s wellbeing
Assured that no damage was done and no injuries sustained he says, “As I said earlier rival treasure hunters can show up in all manner of unusual ways. One time my agents and their guide crossed paths with a rival group and their guide on a river boat and my guide had a history with the rival guide as they had adventured together in the past, then a fire was set on the boat caused by a third group trying to prevent either group from finding the treasure and while the rival group and their guide ended up with all the horses, a fact the rival guide attempted to rub my guide’s nose in my group was on the right side of the river which of course was my guide’s rebuttal. So you see things can sometimes get complicated and escalate quickly during treasure hunts. I’m glad your group kept their composure.”
When he hears the rival group wasn’t evil he says, “There can be many motivations for seeking a treasure. As I said the journal did not say the Treasure Box was associated with any particular alignment so your competition may be mere mercenaries though if so I wonder who hired them as I’ve said as far as I knew I was the only one looking for the Treasure Box of Svengaxi.”
“Anyhow it is getting late. I think I may have to change my plans based on this new information. If you don’t have a response for me now that is ok but please let me know tomorrow at your earliest convenience whether you are in or out as I think I need to be moving on from this fine Hamlet sooner than I intended.”
He shows Torry to the door.
After the meeting Torry gets the impression that his reactions were genuine. He was concerned for the party’s well being and the story of his agent’s past hunt coupled with his summation of the rival group possibly being mercenaries when they registered as not evil seemed like legitimate reactions from Hiroshi. If she attempted a detect evil he did not register as evil.
}
When Torry returns the party delivers the food to the dozen or so homes that took in Orphans before heading back to the guest house to bed down for the night.
In the morning the party presumably discusses their options. None of them can think of any local cult or group that matches these guys, and their robes weren’t exactly identical. The minotaur and the two humans were all wearing simple white robes, but the casters seemed to prefer much more ornate affairs with gold trimming. Probably not a sign of authority or rank since the minotaur took the lead. The robes were more like that of a monastic order than a cult. Actually upon reflection none of the group had weapons on them.
Torrynashkabbeth (Nick) HP:40/40 AC:25 F11: R13 W:15 Friday March 22nd, 2024 8:41:05 AM
Despite the excitement and conundrums of the previous evening Torryn slept well. This was in large part due to her meditation techniques. Emptying the mind wasn’t always as easy as it sounded, but by focusing on her breath, she accomplished that task well enough. Early the next day she rose, stretched religiously and tended to Spot before returning for a much anticipated breakfast. Over breakfast she relayed her conversation with Mr Hiroshi.
”Well, he’s not a Nasty. As to the other lot – they weren’t Nasties either, but her believed them to be possibly mercenaries and most certainly a rival group seeking the treasure. It seems that there may well be more than one such and beating off other groups whilst “Treasure Hunting” is a common occurrence. Oh, and he’s looking to move on early; so we need to supply our answer soon.”
She paused and thought about it a little more.
”For me, it’s a dangerous path. I mean, we’ve already encountered a group that weren’t Nasties – not really. What happens if we end up fighting another such and someone dies? - over something as trivial as a bit of gold or some-such. I’d rather be helping people of animals than just collecting doodahs. If we knew that we were seeking an Icky thing that needed to be destroyed, that would be different, but we aren’t. I would prefer to thank Mr Hiroshi for his generous offer, but decline to “Seek Treasure”. That’s my view of things, but if everyone else wants to go, of course Spot and I will come along.” she concluded cheerily after her uncharacteristically serious summation of previous events.
Spells etc: 5/day [b]Mage Armour. Shield
Fey Spark: used0/6 1st lvl: used 2/5 Lay on Hands: used 0/5 Stunning Fist: used 0/4 Smite Evil: used 0/1
~~~
AC 13 HP 45/45 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K Friday March 22nd, 2024 9:37:03 AM
A good night sleep always helps right the soul. Loryn went to sleep late and so he awakens relatively later as well. The sun is well up as he made his way downstairs to start making breakfast. The hour would cause it to be a simple fare to be sure, fruit and yesterdays bread with an assortment of jams. This morning he would 'cheat' as his brother thought of it and use magic to heat his tea. His mind wandered, perhaps a cast iron box with a fire elemental summoned into it. But how to really get the creature to cooperate. But if it simply made the iron very hot, upon its dismissal, he could add the type of wood he wished which would then catch and could be quickly tendered into a cooking fire. Hmmm, looks like a visit and special project for Daedra Blackhammer was in his future.
"....and someone dies? Loryn spins his attention back to Torrynashkabbeth, who apparently has been talking for some time. The gnome takes a drink of tea and heats it some more with Prestidigitation
"Rival treasure hunters my nose. That group was no mercenary outfit and any other actual groups i think are getting the same visit. It's a box that a protectorate group feels pretty strongly about. A group with some resources rivaling if not exceeding our own. Mr Hiroshi is right in that it stands to reason there are other groups after this and my question is what if their motives are less noble than mere collection. If their master knows something we and Mr Hiroshi does not. I don't think a benign trinket of antiquity would garner such attention.. My gnomish curiosity is peeked and I want to go after this mystery."
Acid Ray 8/8 30' range 1d6+3 Innate Used: 1st lvl: 7/7 2nd lvl: 6/6 3rd lvl: 4/4
Hank (Tanner) -- AC 24/12/22 -- CMD 24 -- HP 70 Friday March 22nd, 2024 10:31:18 AM "I've met holy mercenaries before. They tend to be scarier than regular mercenaries, because they are more likely to have bloodlust. Less control. Paid mercenaries are always better than volunteer hobbyists." Hank takes a bite of bread and jam. "But holy mercenaries tend to be rare and stick out quite a bit. Not very discrete. So either they are working for someone who isn't very choosy, or this box has religious significance. Money is great, but keeping a relic out of the hands of cultists would be a community service."
Drack (Chris J) - hp 73/73 - AC 20 Friday March 22nd, 2024 12:50:12 PM
Drack slept little, pondering the events of the two meetings. Fortunately his standard use of lay hands in the morning relieved any fatigue that might exist. He sits quietly at the table, looking forward to a hearty breakfast, and listening to what the others have to say.
"Look at things this way Torry. Instead of sitting here waiting for people that need help, or nasty's to find us, we will be on the road, and can find them. We made it abundantly clear that should we come across something that needs to be destroyed, we will destroy it. As far as the other group goes, I hold them no ill will until they do something to change that. In my opinion, we proceed with the treasure hunt that we can call off at any time."
"I may have one addendum to add to our agreement with Hiroshi. If something happens here that needs to be dealt with by us, he will let us know as soon as possible. It appears he has the resources, and the magical capability to make the happen, or deal with it himself, but i would like to ensure the safety of those here, as much as possible, before we leave."
"Those are my thoughts, and i will abide by the group decision."
"He wants to leave and soon. So I don't think he'll be following events here at all - not unless they directly impact on his 'collection'. We'll have to trust that others can get a message to us. Also, let's not play down the possibility that others here will step up and become adventurers too. We can't be everywhere, Dracky, but you do make some good points about going out and finding ickiness. As I said, like you, I'll happily abide by the consensus." If she was going to go and do this she'd need to be on her guard against compromising her principles. Still, she'd have her 'big brother', Drack along and he could always be relied upon to staunchly do the right thing.
Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11 ( 15 Mage Armor)(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 36/36 Saturday March 23rd, 2024 8:24:13 AM
"Like i said previously. Lets get the box, and then decide what to do with it. These parties all might look good, but who knows when a major magic item js facing them. They're true colors might show."
Manolo (Michael A) -- AC 21/17/16 -- CMD 20 -- HP 43/43 ,-1 to Hit,Reflex,AC d2=2 ; Sunday March 24th, 2024 8:52:21 PM
Manolo feels confused about all of this matter. He simply tosses a coin to decide about what to support. Either to support treasure hunting (1) Or To stay away from this dangerous hunt. (2)
Gnubert Glitterdust (Wade) AC: 20 T: 14 F: 18 R: 9 F: 14 W: 11 HPS: 51/51 CMD: 6 Sunday March 24th, 2024 9:26:19 PM
OOC:Sorry for the missed post last week. I was in training and had an extra half day at home. I spaced on the group and I am sorry.
Gnubert wrinkles his nose, and internally counts to 10 calming his emotions. The cleric follows the other quietly wishing he was a wee bit bigger, well double his size with more physical strength. The gnome goes to bed where he tosses and turns for most of the night until he falls into a restless slumber. Gnubert wakes early and specifically prays for 3 spells to assist in making the best decision possible. (Augury, Divination, and Locate Object)
"So many possibilities exist Torry. I generally am not a conspiracy theorist, but what if Hiroshi set those guys on us to help ensure we go after this treasure? We don't know anything about him or them? Deceit is at hand here I can feel it!" Gnuber continues, "I have prayed for and been granted 3 spells that may help us. They are Augury, Divination, and Locate Object and I would like to cast them this morning so we can make a plan one way or the other. Nothing like a little knowledge to help guide our footsteps."
The young cleric goes upstairs and casts the spells in order:
Augury: if the stones are recovered and returned to Hiroshi is that good for the Wold? (77% chance of success) (1 minute casting time)
Divination: Should we take this task and find the Treasure Box of Svengaxi? (77% chance of success)(10 minutes casting time)
Locate Object: The object has been clearly described to us. I would focus on that description. (1 standard action casting time)
DM Mitch and Hugh Monday March 25th, 2024 6:42:12 AM Torry slept well in spite of everything. She rose early the next day, stretched and tended Spot before joining breakfast and relaying her conversation from the previous evening. She tells the team that neither Hiroshi nor the other team were nasties and that the other group could have been mercenaries but were most certainly rivals seeking the treasure. She informs that there could be other groups out there and beating off other groups whilst “Treasure Hunting” is a common occurrence. She also points out that Hiroshi is going to be moving on early so they need to supply an answer soon. She tells the others that it was up to her her answer would be no as she would prefer to be helping people and is worried about someone getting hurt if they encounter a rival treasure hunting group. Loryn went to sleep late and woke up relatively later. He spits his tea when Torry says something about conflict with a rival group ending poorly and uses prestidigitation to clean it up. He tells the others that its possible whoever sent the other group may know something that they or Mr Hiroshi does not and so his opinion is they go after this mystery as his gnomish curiosity is piqued. Hank says he’s met holy mercenaries before and that they tend to be scarier than regular mercenaries. He suggests their rivals are either working for someone who isn’t very choosy or the box has religious significance and keeping a relic out of the hands of cultists is a community service. Drack slept little while pondering the events of the two meetings. He suggests that instead of waiting for people to need help or nasties to find them they’ll be on the road and they can find them. He points out they made it abundantly clear that if they come across something that needs to be destroyed they will do so. He says for the other group he holds them no ill will unless the other group does something to change that. He says he wants to go after the treasure with the addendum that Mr. Hiroshi somehow let them know if something happens in Windhorn Hamlet that requires their attention while they are away. Torry tells Drack Hiroshi wants to leave and soon so she doesn’t think he’ll be following events here unless it directly impacts his collection. She suggests they have to trust that others can get a message to them or that others will step up and become adventurers too. Ash suggests they get the box first and then decide what to do with. All the parties might look good now but who knows what when a major magic item is facing them. Manolo flips a coin and it tells him to stay away from the hunt. Gnubert wrinkles his nose and counts to 10 while calming his emotions. He follows the others wishing he was a wee bit bigger and eventually falls into a restless slumber. He wakes early and prays for Augury, Divination and Locate Object. He tells Torry that so many possibilities exist and suggests that Hiroshi may have hired the other group himself in order to ensure they go on the hunt. He says he has prayed for some spells and would like to cast them before they decide one way or another. The young cleric goes upstairs and casts the spells in order:
Augury: if the stones are recovered and returned to Hiroshi is that good for the Wold? (77% chance of success) (1 minute casting time)
Divination: Should we take this task and find the Treasure Box of Svengaxi? (77% chance of success)(10 minutes casting time)
The Augury spell gives Gnubert a return of nothing. That could mean the spell failed, or it could mean that the outcome would have neither positive or negative results, at least for the time frame that the spell is able to predict.
The Divination spell gives Gnubert a return of failure. It seems the gods have no special insight to give priests on this quest, trusting in his own insight.
The locate object spell might be useful, but I’ll give Gnubert the benefit of the doubt to not waste it now. It’s range is 680 feet at his level, so while great for getting a clear direction once you’re in the general area it would almost certainly be wasted if cast while sitting at home unless the object is in town relatively close by. If you still want to cast it we’ll give you the results next post.
The party vote currently sits at 2 nos (Torry, Manolo), 3 yes (Loryn, Hank, Ash), 1 yes with a caveat (Drack) 1 pause for divinations (Gnubert) and 1 no comment (Mortimer)
The debate continues…
Torrynashkabbeth (Nick) HP:40/40 AC:21 F11: R13 W:15 Monday March 25th, 2024 8:29:30 AM
Torryn thanked Gnubert. That was such a good idea - asking the gods. If they said nothing – well, they were busy people and it would seem that hunting for the box wasn’t such a grave concern that it could intrude on more pressing matters. It certainly set her mind at ease. It seemed that the consensus was to go and she’d go and help as best a Sacred Dancer could. Whatever they found there would likely be a need for some dancing.
Mr Hiroshi wasn’t going to stay long; so an answer would have to be forthcoming soon. Still, it wouldn’t be her slowing that process. She’d given her response and would abide by the consensus.
~~~
Spells etc: 5/day Mage Armour. Shield
Fey Spark: used0/6 1st lvl: used 2/5 Lay on Hands: used 0/5 Stunning Fist: used 0/4 Smite Evil: used 0/1
~~~
Drack (Chris J) - hp 73/73 - AC 20 Monday March 25th, 2024 9:52:49 AM
Drack just listens to everything being said. He looks at Torry and gives her a quick smile, and then just nods, knowing she would know the meaning. He then looks to Loryn. "Make the call. Whatever we do we will do it our way, and do the right thing."
Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.): ac:20/16/19. temp/hp:50/50. icy disposition Monday March 25th, 2024 11:37:50 AM
Mortimer emerges from his room and closes the door behind him. As he makes his way down to the common room, he notices the entire group is already up and apparently well fed.
"Oye, 'ow long did I oversleep," he asks with a yawn? "What you all goin' on 'bout?" (Assuming some kind of divining bowl or rune-carved stones or bones where used by Gnubert's divinations.
He takes a mug in hand and it immediately chills with a thin layer of frost before pouring himself a drink.
"Soo ... where we goin' first to find this treasure box, yeah? If we hit a wall, we could try askin' a few of the oldest Windhorners in the cemetery. There should be a few who date back to the time of the Armory."
Hank (Tanner) -- AC 24/12/22 -- CMD 24 -- HP 70 Monday March 25th, 2024 2:30:39 PM
Hank listens attentively, having nothing more to add to the conversation and eager to move forward.
AC 13 HP 45/45 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K Monday March 25th, 2024 5:13:24 PM
Loryn give his nose a tug at the results of Gnubert's spells."Better than a 'You dies, she dies, everybody dies.' kinda answer. I say as the only real 'no' for this venture is Manolo's coin, that we do this. Torrynashkabbeth can relay the message the fastest. The rest of us can start to prep up for another 'there and back again.'
With that, Loryn starts listing out the foodstuffs he will need to procure to make the endeavor worth the having.
Acid Ray 8/8 30' range 1d6+3 Innate Used: 1st lvl: 7/7 2nd lvl: 6/6 3rd lvl: 4/4
Gnubert Glitterdust (Wade) AC: 20 T: 14 F: 18 R: 9 F: 14 W: 11 HPS: 51/51 CMD: 6 Monday March 25th, 2024 7:11:41 PM
Gnubert thanks the Gods for their help and heads downstairs to let the others know the results. "I think we should take this task on with Drack's caveat. I just need another day to prepare traveling spells."
Torryn will quickly notify that they will accept Mr Hiroshi's offer, along with the provisos and caveats. She manages to do this with a smile, making it all seem perfectly reasonable. At least it did so to her.
(Diplomacy: 13)
Manolo (Michael A) -- AC 21/17/16 -- CMD 20 -- HP 43/43 ,-1 to Hit,Reflex,AC Monday March 25th, 2024 10:21:42 PM
Manolo keeps his coin, tight. 'I hope we can deal with everything...coming at us ',Manolo thinks as he says "Well I hope no bad things will happen....we are going to a treasure hunt....we will need to fight powerful foes....and we might be in a position to kill or get killed because of greed ". After some thinking he adds "at least we are not being blackmailed or coerced with gold coins for this thing"
Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11 ( 15 Mage Armor)(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 36/36 Tuesday March 26th, 2024 12:49:36 AM
Ash just nods along, listening to each persons personal opinion of the job at hand. He reaches into his robe and Puls Oslo out, petting the rat and holding him.
DM Mitch and Hugh Tuesday March 26th, 2024 8:55:00 AM Torry thanks Gnubert and figures the God’s silence meant the treasure hunting expedition wasn’t such a grave concern. Seeing as how quickly she can move she volunteers to inform Hiroshi of their acceptance given his plan to move on. Drack just listens to everything being said. He gives Torry a quick smile and tells Loryn to make the call and whatever they do it will be their way and they’ll do the right thing. Mortimer emerges from his room closing the door behind him. He asks how long he overslept, what the party was going on about, where to first in searching for the box and suggests they could always wake the dead to ask Hank listens attentively having nothing more to add to the conversation eager to move forward Loryn gives his nose a tug at the result of Gnubert’s spell and says it is better than “You dies, she dies, everybody dies” kind-of answer. He reasons as the only real no for this venture is Manolo’s coin so they do this. He says Torry can relay the message while the rest of the team starts preparing for their adventure Gnubert thanks the Gods for their help and says they should take the job with Drack’s caveat and that he needs another day to prepare traveling spells. Torry will quickly notify that they will accept Mr. Hiroshi’s offer along with the provisos and caveats. She manages to do this with a smile making it seem perfectly reasonable at least to her. Manolo keeps his coin, tight. He says he hopes they can deal with everything coming at them and he hopes no bad things will happen as they are going to a treasure hunt, they will need to fight powerful foes and they will be in a position to kill or be killed because of greed. After some thinking he adds that at least they aren’t being blackmailed or coerced with gold coins for this thing. Ash nods along listening to each person’s opinion of the job at hand. He reaches into his robe and pulls out Oslo, petting the rat and holding him.
Torry Highlight to display spoiler: { Torry goes to tell Mr. Hiroshi that the Argentium is taking the job with the caveat that if something happens in Windhorn Hamlet that needs to be dealt with by the Argentium he will let them know as soon as possible.
Upon hearing the updated terms Hiroshi looks thoughtful for a moment and then says, “As I told you I was planning to move on from your fair Hamlet as soon as I knew where your group stood with my offer. I was going to check in as I could while dealing with other business, but this new group changes things. They bother me. Rival hunters is nothing special, but they somehow knew the meeting place and the purpose of the meeting. I’ve tried to keep my hunt quiet and spoke to no one about why we were meeting, so how did they know to be here and ambush you the way they did? It’s troubling.
So with this new wrinkle I have decided to loan you something from my personal collection. I want it back when our business is concluded.”
He opens a stained oak box he had on a nearby table and pulls out a large conch shell handing it to Torry.
“I have its twin in my possession. Each shell can cast a sending spell to contact the other once per day with no word limit. You can use the shell to signal me for a new meeting after you have secured the Treasure Box of Svengaxi.”
He pauses. “Now I am not without my resources and I do have some nondescript agents I can dispatch to your Hamlet that can notify me if something happens here and I in turn can use my shell to contact you. However, it will take at least a few days up to a week to move them into position. Is this delay acceptable? Frankly I’m surprised your group is ready to move on so soon. I thought the Spire Armory was somewhere in or near the Hamlet. Have you discovered a new lead outside Windhorn Hamlet that has you rushing off?” }
Hank (Tanner) -- AC 24/12/22 -- CMD 24 -- HP 70 Tuesday March 26th, 2024 9:39:14 AM
Hank drums his finger on the table, waiting for any word from Torrynashkabeth. "Do we know where to start looking?"
Drack (Chris J) - hp 73/73 - AC 20 Tuesday March 26th, 2024 9:45:12 AM
Drack prepares his armor and weaponry for the travel ahead. He then waits for further word from Torry. After taking care of his equipment, he will sit in the main room with any who are there. "Loryn? you know where we are going right? This armory? How do we find it? Might have been a good question to ask with one of your Spells Gnubert."
Lay hands: 9/10
Spells: 1st Level: Divine Favor, Bless, protection from evil 2nd Level: Shield other
Torrynashkabbeth (Nick) HP:40/40 AC:21 F11: R13 W:15 Tuesday March 26th, 2024 10:02:58 AM
DM Only Highlight to display spoiler: {
”Yes, that’s perfectly acceptable.” Torryn agreed. The conch shell she resolved to give to Loryn. It wouldn’t do for her to break it whilst fighting. The terms agreed, she headed back to inform the others.}
Torryn returned and was not tardy in so doing. Upon her arrival she placed a conch shell upon the table.
”Mr Hiroshi gave me this. It’s a magic thingummy. He’s got one the same. Each shell can cast a Sending spell to contact the other once per day - with no word limit! So….., we can use the shell to signal him for a new meeting after we’ve secured the Treasure Box of Svengaxi. There’s more. He’s arranging for some ordinary looking types to keep an eye on things in Windhorm. They’ll tell him if something bad happens and then he can tell us – with the shell. Oh, and he mentioned that the Armoury was actually real close; so we don’t have to plan for a long trip – yet. Yeah, the armoury is actually IN or NEAR Windhorn. Who knew? Not me, that’s for sure. Anyway. I figured YOU’D better take this shell thingy, Loryn. If I keep it, I’ll likely break it when I start dancing on some icky guy’s head.”
“Spire Armoury! That’s what he called it.” torryn added, delighted that she’d remembered that particular detail.
~~~
Spells etc: 5/day [b]Mage Armour. Shield
Fey Spark: used0/6 1st lvl: used 2/5 Lay on Hands: used 0/5 Stunning Fist: used 0/4 Smite Evil: used 0/1
~~~
AC 13 HP 45/45 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K Tuesday March 26th, 2024 2:45:52 PM
The Spire does not ring any bells for Loryn, he looks to Manolo and Mortimer for additional information. "Ever heard of The Spire?"
At the phrasing in or near Windhorn Loryn can only shrug. He had never put any time into studying Geography or Local anything really. So the gnome only knew what everyone knew and everyone did not know this place and so neither did he.
Answering Drack, the gnome did not have much to offer. "If we knew of some highly rare but not unique item within the armory, say a mithril axe or adamantine dagger, I Think Gnubert could eliminate Windhorn itself relatively quickly with Locate Object With a radius of 680' and lasting for 7 minutes, Gnubert could mount Dirth and cover the town with a couple of casting I would think. From there? Windhorn. Go west and shadow it from 1,400, but we need an item to be looking for. The Box itself might be to unique or even shielded."
Acid Ray 8/8 30' range 1d6+3 Innate Used: 1st lvl: 7/7 2nd lvl: 6/6 3rd lvl: 4/4
Gnubert Glitterdust (Wade) AC: 20 T: 14 F: 18 R: 9 F: 14 W: 11 HPS: 51/51 CMD: 6 Tuesday March 26th, 2024 6:56:40 PM
Gnubert sips on his tea,"Perhaps one of the town elders has heard of this Spire Armory and they could give us a direction of travel. Near Windhorn is just vague enough where it could be just about anywhere!"
Manolo (Michael A) -- AC 21/17/16 -- CMD 20 -- HP 43/43 ,-1 to Hit,Reflex,AC d20+9=25 ; d20+9=28 ; d20+9=25 ; Tuesday March 26th, 2024 8:13:00 PM
"Leave me be for a few moments", Manolo says as he thinks deeply..
First, he thinks about The Spire armoury, where on earth it could be and when? Where there any stories or old tales he heard? Perhaps something that was well out of the ordinary they as a group didn't notice?
Second, 'Gnubert And Drack had a point', he thinks, What local weapons or items were part of the local folklore? 'A name of peculiar item or legendary weapon?', Manolo thinks.
Thirdly, he think about possible texts( books, records) or elders that might give a clue for the first two.
After some time he just grabs his hair and then palms his face, hiding his face's visible expression of irritation and stress of thinking, " this is so much thinking and its difficult!", saying loudly with a voice that clearly convies frustration with this treasure hunt.
Manolo (Michael A) -- AC 21/17/16 -- CMD 20 -- HP 43/43 ,-1 to Hit,Reflex,AC Tuesday March 26th, 2024 8:16:38 PM
Local knowledge - 25- The Spire Armoury - where this place is or could have been?, any tales or stories or clues that might help or local traditions? Local knowledge -28- Any items or weapons of interest that are local or nearby. Local knowledge -25- Possible records or books that can help or perhaps that this information was written somewhere, also thinking about any living beings in general that could help with more information
Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.): ac:20/16/19. temp/hp:50/50. icy disposition d20+1=16 ; Tuesday March 26th, 2024 11:10:30 PM (Knowledge [Local]: 16, for ideas as to where the Armory is.)
Mortimer squints his eyes a bit as he jogs his memory when asked about Windhornian lore. "There's all the well-known local yarns, the dragons of the bay, the Sentinels an' all. There was the sahuagin raid, all those ogre bastards ... so many!" His eyes go wide when he recalls something that might change their search significantly.
"Priestess Noma, at the chapel of Wardd, when she first showed yours truly the Lucky Basement ... told me the tale why it's so bloomin' lucky, she did! That this Lucky Basement was the luckiest of all ... it was the only structure that survived the trip back from a nightmare realm called somethin' uhhh ... Koshie Mars, I think. The whole bloody hamlet an' all. If the Armory was here before the trip ... then it could be left behind in that place with the rest of Old Windhorn, yeah!"
Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11 ( 15 Mage Armor)(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 36/36 d20+7=8 ; Tuesday March 26th, 2024 11:21:32 PM
Ash continues waiting, spending his time trying to recall an Armory. The knowledge is too foreign to him and nothing comes to mind.
DM Mitch and Hugh Wednesday March 27th, 2024 8:05:36 AM Hank impatiently drums his fingers and asks if they know where to start looking. Drack prepares his armor and weaponry for the travel ahead while waiting for word from Torry. The paladin asks Loryn if he knows where they are are going or how to find it and suggests that might have been a question to ask the gods. Torry agrees to the delay in getting Hiroshi’s agents in place and then rushes back to tell the others everything from the meeting including the shell, the agents, the delay and the fact that Spire Armory is apparently in or near the Hamlet. She also transfers the magic conch shell to Lorryn afraid that she would break it. Loryn does not have the Spire ring any bells for him and asks Manolo and Mortimer what they’ve heard. He shrugs at the phrasing of in or near Windhorn Hamlet he can only shrug. He comes up with the idea of using some highly rare but none-unique item in the armory to try to locate it as the box itself could be shielded. Gnubert sips his tea and suggests that one of the town elders may have heard of it and could give them a direction to travel. Manolo asks to be left alone for a moment as he thinks deeply on the Spire Armory, local weapons of legend, and any texts that may have a clue to the location. Mortimer squints his eyes and jogs his memory through all the local lore. He remembers the tale of the whole of Windhorn Hamlet getting pulled into Koshe Marr and suggests that the Treasure Box could have been left behind in that nightmare realm Ash continues waiting and thinking but the knowledge is too foreign to him to have any ideas.
Before Torryn runs off Mr. Hiroshi has some last words of advice for the group. ”I found myself stymied in my own search because I am not a local to the area. Your group knows the area and the people, and even ancient events leave signs. I’m confident if you leverage your knowledge, ask those you know, or even review old folk tales of the area you’ll find something to point you in the right direction.”
(Everyone can roll a skill check to contribute to researching or searching for clues to the Spire Armory. Any skill, research, or search method you can think of that seems reasonable will be accepted and contribute so be creative even if you don’t have obviously helpful skills!)
Manolo
Highlight to display spoiler: { With respect to his thoughts on the Spire Armory himself and the last thing that Mr. Hiroshi said to Torry Manolo will pool what he can remember there with the rest of the group.
With respect to any items of significance during the first adventuring crisis when Grog’s father Grukig attacked Windhorn Hamlet and Grog slew him and saved the city. Grukig was rumored to have had a magical falchion that no one has seen since that time.
Additionally The former adventuring group the gray knights once found an orb containing an unstable gate when they went to Koshe Marr. They destroyed the gate but perhaps a piece remains somewhere? With respect to where one could go for tomes that might have clues. Bearclaw keep has branch offices of the Mailed Fist, WLA, Sages Guild, Star Mages Guild and Chancer’s Club in or nearby.
The Sages specialize in learning and information
The Star Mages are known for their research and study however anything obtained through them will likely come at a price
The WLA has a library but one would have to be a member to access it
The Chancers Club is a group of thrill seekers and retired adventurers perhaps some amongst their ranks have heard something?
There is also the fortune selling shop House of the Crystal Sphere
Lastly Chapel of Wardd of the 1st Moon [and graveyard]. You could always take a chance and see if it’s lucky basement contains anything relevant to your search }
Mortimer Highlight to display spoiler: { Any other potential ideas besides the box being potentially left behind in Koshe Marr will be pooled with the other party’s knowledge based on Hiroshi’s parting advice to Torry }
Torrynashkabbeth (Nick) HP:40/40 AC:21 F11: R13 W:15 Wednesday March 27th, 2024 9:06:12 AM
Torryn was at a loss at how to help in finding the Spire Armoury. Had this been something that involved dancing, she'd have been in her element, but she doubted that there were any dances that commemorated the armoury. She pondered further as she groomed Spot.
Hmm, you know something, Spot - armouries have weapons. That's the general idea anyway. Arrows are weapons. I can make arrows. So......I should probably go ask my Dad. He's much better at making arrows ....and bows, than me. I bet you'd like a run out. Of course, we'll be gone most of the day. No way can I just hit and run - not after being away for so long and so much has happened. We probably shouldn't mention the icky witches to my Mum."
Torryn will then explain to the others that she's heading home, to her parents smallholding to ask her father if he recalls any details of The Spire Armoury. That was only about 8 miles out of town, but there'd be a LOT of questions and a lot of catching up to do. She promised to be back before dusk.
Hank (Tanner) -- AC 24/12/22 -- CMD 24 -- HP 70 d20+11=29 ; Wednesday March 27th, 2024 9:07:53 AM
Hank surveys the area around Windhorn Hamlet. As a trained military engineer, he knows that a sizable structure would likely leave geoform signs in the surrounding landscape, and affect construction and development of other buildings even after it is no longer visible.
Knowledge (engineering) check 29
Drack (Chris J) - hp 73/73 - AC 20 d20+10=16 ; Wednesday March 27th, 2024 11:21:21 AM
Drack listens to what the others know. "If you don't know right off the bat, i will look into it as well". Drack will go to speak with the village elders, and oldest people in town to ask if they have heard or remember stories about such a thing. If they are hesitant to divulge information, he will use diplomacy(16)
Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11 ( 15 Mage Armor)(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 36/36 d20+7=16 ; Wednesday March 27th, 2024 12:26:17 PM
Ash feels at odds. Usually the smartest person in the room, he feels very underwhelming in the research. He still tries to help where he can.
Knowledge local 16
Manolo (Michael A) -- AC 21/17/16 -- CMD 20 -- HP 43/43 ,-1 to Hit,Reflex,AC Wednesday March 27th, 2024 1:02:18 PM
Manolo sighs as his head starts to hurt. He complains about his head hurting and starts to speak
"I remember in of his tales (referring to Grog) in the first adventuring crisis when Grog’s father Grukig attacked Windhorn Hamlet and Grog slew him and saved the city. Grukig was rumored to have had a magical Falchion that no one has seen since that time. Does anyone remember the name of that weapon?, I was too drunk at that time" " Additionally The former adventuring group the gray knights once found an orb containing an unstable gate when they went to Koshe Marr. They destroyed the gate but perhaps a piece remains somewhere? At least that's what I remember from Lanliss tales. " We might find some more clues in the branch offices of the various groups of power (referring to Mailed Fist, WLA, Sages Guild, Star Mages Guild and Chancer’s Club) " Manolo pauses to drink water and then proceeds to recite in a monotone voice " The Sages specialize in learning and information The Star Mages are known for their research and study however anything obtained through them will likely come at a price The WLA has a library but one would have to be a member to access it The Chancers Club is a group of thrill seekers and retired adventurers perhaps some amongst their ranks have heard something? " "Damn folks, it's too much thinking seriously", he proceeds to walk from the chair he was sitting. "There is also the fortune selling shop House of the Crystal Sphere but I never been there before"
" If we don't find anything we can just go to the Chapel of Wardd of the 1st Moon [and graveyard]. We could always take a chance and see if there is any basement there or any other clues." "I definitely need a drink", he says now more calm.
AC 13 HP 45/45 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K d20+11=24 ; Wednesday March 27th, 2024 5:08:49 PM
Manolo knew more about Windhorn than anyone else in the town, well most likely. The human had a knack for that type of information, though watching him have to access it made the gnome a bit uncomfortable.
Koshe Marr? Bite your tongue I hope you are not right with that thought. Let me know what you uncover, I'll be right here making lunch and possibly dinner."
Loryn gets to work, figuring the crew will be hungry when they get back. Cooking 24
Acid Ray 8/8 30' range 1d6+3 Innate Used: 1st lvl: 7/7 2nd lvl: 6/6 3rd lvl: 4/4
A spire needle in the Windhorn haystack
Gnubert Glitterdust (Wade) AC: 20 T: 14 F: 18 R: 9 F: 14 W: 11 HPS: 51/51 CMD: 6 d20+4=17 ; Wednesday March 27th, 2024 7:41:20 PM
Gnubert ponders on how he can best help. Finally the cleric stretches his legs and eases out the door to talk to the locals in an attempt to glean any information on the armory. (Diplomacy DC 17)
DM Mitch and Hugh Thursday March 28th, 2024 7:43:35 AM Torry was at a loss as how to help in finding the Spire Armory so she goes to groom Spot and gets the idea to visit her Dad who is a much better Bowyer and Fletcher than she seeing as how Armories have weapons. She promises to be back before Dusk. Hank surveys the area around Windhorn Hamlet looking for footprints where the armory could be hidden. Drack goes to speak with the village elders to see if they know anything about the armory. Ash feels at odds. As he’s usually the smartest in the room, he feels underwhelmed in this research Manolo summarizes what he learned with all his thinking on things and then decides he needs a drink. Loryn figures Manolo knows more about Windhorn than anyone else in town though watching the human access the information was uncomfortable. He tells Mortimer to bite his tongue and he hopes the sorcerer isn’t right with that thought. He tells the group to let him know what they find out as he goes about cooking lunch and dinner Gnubert ponders on how he can best help before stretching his legs and going to talk to the locals to glean any information on the armory.
What follows is several days of chasing down old rumors, vague stories, and half remembered stories, along with constant checking of information across the group and deciding which leads are worth pursuing and which are just random nonsense. Loryn’s fortifying food and ability to keep track of what everyone else is doing proves instrumental in keeping people motivated and things moving.
Manolo tracks down a fairly promising lead pretty early about a local rock formation called Chimney Rock. It is located to the East of Windhorn Hamlet and resembles a Spire so could have been the titular “spire” of Spire Armory. Hank’s surveying quickly disproved that option though, as the formation is natural and not altered by physical or magical means and there are no signs of ancient construction around the rock.
Mortimer thought he remembered something about a rumored ancient treasure buried beneath the basement of the Green Grape Wine and Spirits Shop. After confirming the rumor actually existed back in the day it seems promising until Drack splashes cold water on this theory by learning from the elders that the owners of the shop started this rumor to drum up business years and years ago. Most people don’t even remember it.
Gnubert gets suggested that the island in the river West of The Festival Grounds that is visibly seen on Maps of Windhorn Hamlet could be the location of Spire Rock but Ash being the smartest person in the room is certain nothing was ever built on the site as it is just a big rock jutting out of the river with some sand, dirt and plantlife on it
One of the last rumors the party hears about is an old well that has strange sounds echo out of it at times. The area is rumored to be haunted and mostly avoided, but enough people know of it or have even seen it it looks like it might be an actual lead about something. What really cinches it as a plausible lead is Torryns dad. He knew a kid who went down the well on a dare once. Found an old tunnel of some sort and fled when a stone soldier tried to attack him, or so the kid said at the time. The other kids thought he just got scared, but the story stuck with her dad, and if true indicates a golem or other construct is guarding something down there.
Torrynashkabbeth (Nick) HP:40/40 AC:21 F11: R13 W:15 Thursday March 28th, 2024 8:19:58 AM
She'd had a lovely time back at her old home. Her mother and father, being half-elves both, aged slowly, so appeared little different from when she was a child; not that she was that much older now. It was that youthful exuberance that that demanded a speedy return to town, having given LOTS of assurances that she'd be 'careful'. That he father's story had proven so useful was even more gratifying.
"So, how far away is this 'old well'?" She asked, having forgotten to ask that most salient question of her father. Well, she couldn't be expected to remember everything! She studiously avoided Drack's gaze. HE would have definitely remembered to ask that question.
DM Mitch and Hugh Thursday March 28th, 2024 9:03:59 AM
(Whoops I forgot to put that in)
Her father is able to give her directions to the well. It’s several miles west close to the start of the Red Hills.
Hank (Tanner) -- AC 24/12/22 -- CMD 24 -- HP 70 Thursday March 28th, 2024 10:54:33 AM "Sounds like a lead. Is everyone ready to go, or do we need some prep time?" Hank does a few squats and swings his bat around to loosen his limbs. "Because I am ready to get going."
AC 13 HP 45/45 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K Thursday March 28th, 2024 1:55:47 PM
At least it did not appear that the group was going to be heading into Koshe Marr. The gnome felt very much that that was a place he never wanted to see. An old well on out near the fringe of the wilds was much more his speed.
Loryn only needed to go upstirs and grab his Haversack, Bag of Holding and Gnomish Hook Hammer. "Let's head out just after breakfast tomorrow."
Acid Ray 8/8 30' range 1d6+3 Innate Used: 1st lvl: 7/7 2nd lvl: 6/6 3rd lvl: 4/4
"Oh, yeah! Now I remember; it's out to the West, towards the foothills of the Red Hills. That's still a pretty broad area, so it's a good thing that Spot is coming." She didn't explain that it wasn't because Spot was particularly gifted at finding wells, but rather that being such a big horse, she accorded Torryn a far batter view of the surrounding land. As to preparations, Torryn could be ready in very little time, but maximising the available daylight made great sense. Departing after breakfast was the correct call.
Gnubert Glitterdust (Wade) AC: 20 T: 14 F: 18 R: 9 F: 14 W: 11 HPS: 51/51 CMD: 6 Thursday March 28th, 2024 7:43:29 PM
Gnubert works tirelessly, helping the others track down rumors, and possible locations. When Torry reveals her dad's story the young Gnome gets a bit excited as it seems like the most promising lead so far. "I am ready, well I will be ready in 30 minutes." Gnubert runs upstairs and pulls on his armor. He hurriedly packs his knapsack and bounds back downstairs. "OK, Let's do this."
Manolo (Michael A) -- AC 21/17/16 -- CMD 20 -- HP 43/43 ,-1 to Hit,Reflex,AC Thursday March 28th, 2024 9:54:48 PM
Manolo calms a bit after eating. He dons the necklace he got as a gift from Hiroshi. "We have no choice to explore and keep going after this treasure..", he says agreeing with exploring the well.
Drack (Chris J) - hp 73/73 - AC 20 Thursday March 28th, 2024 9:55:54 PM
Drack follows the group decision.(sorry. Family in town. Busy)
Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11 ( 15 Mage Armor)(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 36/36 Thursday March 28th, 2024 11:05:26 PM
"A possible golem. How intriguing. " Ash is delighted to check the lead and possibly see a golem.
Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.): ac:20/16/19. temp/hp:50/50. icy disposition Friday March 29th, 2024 12:30:15 AM "Climbin' down an old well ... Sure! Nothin' creepy or ominous 'bout that."
He wasn't ready to start digging up graves and interrogating the dead. It would require a lot of explaining to Noma. He wonders how many of the graves are filled with undeath. Who knows the level of necrotic exposure many of those corpses received while in Koshe Mar.
DM Mitch and Hugh Friday March 29th, 2024 7:36:09 AM Torry explains where the well is and says it is a good thing that Spot is coming but she doesn’t explain her true motive for wanting Spot along. Hank says that the well sounds like a lead and asks if everyone is ready to go or if they need some prep time. He explains he’s ready to go. Loryn was glad that the group was not going to be headed into Koshe Marr as that was a place he never wanted to see, but this old well was more his speed. Gnubert] says he’ll be ready in 30 minutes as he dons his armor and hurriedly packs Manolo puts on the necklace he received from Hiroshi and says they have no choice but to explore and keep going after the treasure
(OOC: per the magic item description: If the necklace is being worn or carried by a character who fails her saving throw against a magical fire attack, the item must make a saving throw as well (with a save bonus of +7). If the necklace fails to save, all its remaining spheres detonate simultaneously, often with regrettable consequences for the wearer.) Drack follows the group decision Ash[//b] is intrigued by the prospect of seeing a golem [b]Mortimer says theirs nothing creep or ominous about climbi down an old well. He was glad he didn’t have to dig up any corpses to ask about the Armory.
The party debates departure time. It’ll probably take several hours to walk there so morning would give them the most time to explore before dark. It’s wild country though so some caution as they go is probably advisable (please give a marching order and any checks you’re making as you travel.)
AC 13 HP 45/45 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K Friday March 29th, 2024 9:42:40 AM
Morning it is. Loryn spends the remainder of his day out font in a chair working on his stitching and needle work. He does not plan to ride out, 7 miles or so would take about 3 hours for the gnome and that way he would not have to be concerned with anything happening to his lizard while they were in the well and where ever that might take them.
Morning comes and Loryn is back in the kitchen heating up the slow oats from the night before to add berries and set out with honey and molasses infused sugar.
Acid Ray 8/8 30' range 1d6+3 Innate Used: 1st lvl: 7/7 2nd lvl: 6/6 3rd lvl: 4/4
Hank has been added to the Watch and walking order at the bottom of our page Bearclaw Keep
Torrynashkabbeth (Nick) HP:40/40 AC:21 F11: R13 W:15 Friday March 29th, 2024 9:58:16 AM
Torryn had wanted to take Spot along. The exercise would have been very welcome. Plus, both Gnubert and Loryn could have ridden and then the whole group could make better time. Still, it was a valid point that Loryn raised regarding Spot's safety whilst they were all down the well. For herself, she didn't mind the walk. A leisurely pace permitted more appreciation of Nature. That was something always to be cherished. So, while Loryn sewed, she took Spot for a ride. Spot would get all the exercise she needed and then rest whilst she was away.
The next day, whilst Loryn was preparing breakfast Torryn was out in the yard practicing her 'dance steps' and then stretching impressively as it seemed, only she could. Torryn travelled light. She needed very little preparation.
~~~
NB: Like Manolo, Torryn has a necklace of fireballs. Hers though, has but one fireball remaining.
Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11 ( 15 Mage Armor)(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 36/36 Friday March 29th, 2024 10:10:48 AM
Ash sleeps a full night, prepares his spells and enjoys some breakfast the next morning. He relaxes on the porch, waiting to leave. He lets Oslo rest on his shoulder while reading a reference book.
Hank (Tanner) -- AC 24/12/22 -- CMD 24 -- HP 70 Saturday March 30th, 2024 12:13:15 PM
Hank checks his armor and weapons, running through the mental checklist of checking for damage, adjusting straps, shifting weight, and polishing metal.
His equipment secured, he prepares his mind and his body with a rigorous series of calisthenics. After working up a sweat, he takes a quick bath, dons his armor, and meets outside to join the others.
"Ready to rock and roll." He stands with his hands on his hips and smiles at the sky. "Today is a great day for heroics and coin. Let's do this."
Torrynashkabbeth (Nick) HP:40/40 AC:21 F11: R13 W:15 Sunday March 31st, 2024 7:48:13 AM
Torryn really couldn't understand much of what Hank said. He was obviously from somewhere far away with a very different culture. his references were lost on her. And just what was the great fascination for 'coin' about? No, she just didn't understand the man. Still, he seemed well-intentioned and very keen to get involved. It still worried her though that he was positioned at the rear of the party to protect the many spellcasters. It wasn't that he couldn't do that and do it ably. It was more that she believed he'd charge forward, wanting to get involved and leave them exposed. Perhaps she was being unfair on the man. No doubt he'd prove himself soon enough and maybe she'd even learn what all the bizarre references meant, although she really didn't pin much hope on that.
Gnubert Glitterdust (Wade) AC: 20 T: 14 F: 18 R: 9 F: 14 W: 11 HPS: 51/51 CMD: 6 Sunday March 31st, 2024 6:43:08 PM
Gnubert wakes early and prays for his spells. The cleric tightens his surcoat over his armor. He heads downstairs to meet the others and prepare to head out
Manolo (Michael A) -- AC 21/17/16 -- CMD 20 -- HP 43/43 ,-1 to Hit,Reflex,AC d20=2 ; Sunday March 31st, 2024 8:21:05 PM
Manolo will keep an eye or watch for possible problems or threats .
Perception 2
OOC: posted but not feeling well
DM Mitch and Hugh Monday April 1st, 2024 8:20:40 AM Torry had wanted to take Spot along as the exercise would have been very welcome and Gnubert and Loryn could have ridden and they could have made better time. It was a good point that Loryn raised regarding Spot’s safety while they were in the well so she took him for a ride so he could get some exercise and then rest while they were gone. The next day she practices her dance steps and stretches. Ash sleeps a full night, prepares his spells and enjoys some breakfast the next morning. He relaxes on the porch waiting to leave. He lets Oslo rest on his shoulder while reading a reference book. Hank checks his armor and weapons, running through his mental checklist. Once his equipment prepares his mind and body with a rigorous series of calisthenics and then takes a quick bath before meeting the others outside. Telling the others it was a great day for fortune and coin. Torry couldn’t understand much of what Hank said. She doesn’t get all the references to coin and is worried that while Hank is positioned to defend the spellcasters he might charge forward into battle but realize this is unfair and that he’ll be given a chance to prove himself soon and she might even learn what his bizarre references mean. Gnubert[/b wakes early and prays for his spells. The cleric tightens his surcoat over his armor and heads downstairs to meet the others and prepare to head out. [b]Manolo keeps an eye out and watches for potential threats. (OOC: Do you think you’ll need a sub for next week)
It’s actually a fairly pleasant walk to their destination. It’s well off the beaten path so is several hours of walking through fairly gentle terrain in pleasantly cool weather. There’s a few signs of local monsters but nothing alarming and no encounters along the way. Upon arriving at the right general area it takes a lot of looking to find the well. The area is well overgrown with brush and trees and the well is half hidden by the growth. There’s also signs that Hank can point to indicating there was once a settlement or fort here, though so long ago the well is just about the only thing left over.
Torrynashkabbeth (Nick) HP:40/40 AC:21 F11: R13 W:15 d20=15 ; Monday April 1st, 2024 9:15:13 AM
Torryn delighted in the walk. Being decidedly off the beaten path accorded her the opportunity to appreciate the wilder beauty of Nature. Sometimes she skipped along, inserting a pirouette here and there as she delighted in the sights and smells of the land around her. Despite her often meandering progress she had no trouble keeping up with the others. In fact it was she that was, by and large, setting the pace. There was no armour to slow her or announce her presence and so disturb creatures thereabouts.
Once the well was found, she pranced over to it and checking that the edge was safe, carefully peered and listened. She even remembered to open her Feysight and check for ickyness (evil)
~~~
Perception: 26
Hank (Tanner) -- AC 24/12/22 -- CMD 24 -- HP 70 Monday April 1st, 2024 9:50:20 AM
Hank happily followed along with the party, the clanking of his full plate armor announcing his presence to the world. He pointed out the geoforms indicating the likely remains of a settlement surrounding the well. Peering over the edge he thinks for a moment, picks up a small pebble from the ground, and tosses it into the well. "Let's see how deep you are..."
OOC: How big is the opening of the well?
Drack (Chris J) - hp 73/73 - AC 20 d20+8=23 ; Monday April 1st, 2024 10:11:01 AM
Drack followed along with the others. Once they get to the well he sees hank drop a stone in. He listens at the edge as well, trying to get a feel for the depth while wondering how much rope they had. Perception 23
Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.): ac:20/16/19. temp/hp:63/50. icy disposition, false life, darkvision d10+8=13 ; d20+4=14 ; Monday April 1st, 2024 2:32:56 PM
Once they arrive at the well, Mortimer infuses his body with the necrotic forces of unlife for added vitality and he also activates his darkvision. He doesn't expect there to be much light at the bottom of a well.
(Mortimer casts False Life on himself. +13 temporary hitpoints. Duration: 8 hours. Mortimer casts Darkvision: Range: 60ft. Duration: 8 hours.)
He looks down the well to see if he can see the bottom (darkvision, 60ft).
(Perception: 14.)
AC 13 HP 45/45 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K Monday April 1st, 2024 3:31:38 PM
Loryn is delighted that nothing bad happened on the way to the well, like getting lost or getting attacked by something as they left behind the more civilized area of Windhorn and began infringing into the wilds. Still, it was about 7 miles and not so unreasonable that something other than the natural fauna of the area to be moving this close to Windhorn and feeling saucy enough to attack 8 well equipped humanoids.
As hank drops a pebble and Drack leans in, Loryn casts Ghost Sound to create the notorious Wilhelm Scream as it falls into the darkness.
Mortimer then steps up and Loryn holds off doing anything until it's confirmed on the bottom being over 60'. If so, the gnome steps up with another small rock, casts Light on it, and then lets it fall
Acid Ray 8/8 30' range 1d6+3 Innate Used: 1st lvl: 7/7 2nd lvl: 6/6 3rd lvl: 4/4
Manolo (Michael A) -- AC 21/17/16 -- CMD 20 -- HP 43/43 ,-1 to Hit,Reflex,AC d20=18 ; Monday April 1st, 2024 7:39:39 PM
Manolo stops for about 5-10 seconds as they arrive. ' interesting, so there was some sort of a fort or a settlement here", he doesn't dare to look like the others for now. He hears Hank's comment and thinks about this place 'Is there something I am missing about this place?', he thinks and wonders about tales or stories or piece of information that he might not have thought about. " What could be helpful for this place?", he thinks loudly.
Local knowledge or Local Dungeoneering 27 or 26 (whichever might be more appropriate)
OOC: I feel better, Had a massive headache and didn't sleep too much, which almost never happpens.
Gnubert Glitterdust (Wade) AC: 20 T: 14 F: 18 R: 9 F: 14 W: 11 HPS: 51/51 CMD: 6 d20+16=36 ; Monday April 1st, 2024 7:54:10 PM
Gnubert enjoys the walk out almost getting lost in his thoughts. As they show up the cleric takes a slow look around for danger (Perception DC 36)
DM Mitch and Hugh Tuesday April 2nd, 2024 8:13:39 AM Torry delighted in the walk and being off the beaten path let her enjoy nature. Despite her meandering path she still set the pace. Once the well was found she peered inside and listened while checking for evil. Hank happily followed along with the party clanking around in his plate armor. He pointed out the geoforms indicating the likely remains of a settlement surrounding the well. He peers over the edge and drops a pebble.
The pebble falls for a while before making a sound. The lid of the well is normal sized for a well - big enough for a medium sized creature to go down it without to much trouble and dig it deeper as needed.
Drack followed along with the others with the others and observes Hank toss a stone down the well trying to guage the depth while wondering if they had enough rope. Drack estimates the well depth to be somewhere between 80 and 130 feet. Mortimer infuses himself with necromantic energy and turns on his dark vision when they reach the well. Mortimer looks down with his dark vision and per Drack’s estimation the depth of the well continues beyond what his darkvision. Lorryn is delighted nothing bad happened while on there way. Still it wasn’t that far from civilization. Loryn casts ghost sound on the first pebble and then after Mortimer uses darkvision casts light on a second stone Manolo says it is interesting that there was a settlement here then wonders what he is missing. Gnubert enjoys the walk and looks around for danger as they arrive
The party is alert as they look around but there don’t seem to be signs of anything particularly dangerous in the area. The well is definitely deep enough that jumping down is probably a bad idea, but a couple ropes tied to a nearby tree would allow easy descent (DC 5 climb, can take 10). If the party somehow forgot to bring any ropes a DC 15 check will let them climb down the rough stone. Manalo’s dungeoneering experience tells him that they’ll want torches for those without dark vision and maybe a 10 foot pole in case of ancient traps, but otherwise it’s impossible to know what awaits you down below.
Drack (Chris J) - hp 73/73 - AC 20 Tuesday April 2nd, 2024 8:29:21 AM
“I’m guessing the well to be 80 to 130 feet guys. I’ve got 50’ of rope. Anyone else have rope? I’m sure light will not be a problem with the spellcasting power that we have. Beyond that, any other thoughts?
Torrynashkabbeth (Nick) HP:40/40 AC:21 F11: R13 W:15 Tuesday April 2nd, 2024 8:33:53 AM
”Hmmm.” Torryn mumbled as she peered down. Climbing just wasn’t something that she’d ever had need to practice. She wasn’t strong and it had always struck her as an enterprise for those gifted with greater strength than she. Moreover, she already had plenty to concentrate upon as a Sacred Dancer. That really didn’t leave much time for things like climbing. A rope. Surely they used ropes for such things. She looked around hopefully at the others, particularly Drack: he was always prepared for any eventuality.
She looked down again. She could see a good way done. Her eyes were keen, but lacked the capacity to pierce utter darkness. All in all, it wasn’t the best of starts for her. Of course, she should have known this: wells were always deep and dark, but it wasn’t as if she was actually going to carry any equipment. Sacred Dancers needed speed and mobility. Dancing with a burden just wasn’t an option.
On the plus side, she’d detected no ‘ickyness’. So Torryn stepped back away from the well that others might assess it and determine the best course of action to follow. There were trees and clouds and flowers that needed her attention.
~~~
Spells etc: 5/day Mage Armour. Shield
Fey Spark: used0/6 1st lvl: used 2/5 Lay on Hands: used 0/5 Stunning Fist: used 0/4 Smite Evil: used 0/1
~~~
AC 13 HP 45/45 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K d20+11=25 ; Tuesday April 2nd, 2024 9:43:44 AM
A big pile of rope was not one of the things that Loryn carried about in his Haversack or Bag. The gnome could levitate and thus when they knew they were heading to a well, didn't give much though on how to get down. He could simply levitate, but now that they were here and Drack had started the conversation, well perhaps he should have thought about it. Then again, Loryn mentally shrugs. They were resourceful folks and surely could figure it out.
Loryn does have a potion of Levitation and he offers it up to whomever might want it.
With the bottom of the well already lit, Loryn climbs up on the lip, casts Levitate and steps off. "See you at the bottom in a few moments"
Perception 25
Active Spell: Levitate 7/7 minutes Acid Ray 8/8 30' range 1d6+3 Innate Used: 1st lvl: 7/7 2nd lvl: 5/6 3rd lvl: 4/4
Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.): ac:20/16/19. temp/hp:63/50. icy disposition, false life, darkvision Tuesday April 2nd, 2024 11:43:16 AM "Got a rope, I do, yeah." He extracts the rope from his haversack and hands it over to those with better knot engineering ability. "That's a deep well; can't see the bottom."
He wishes had enough coin to purchase the Feather Falling Ring he wanted. Either that or turn into a bat. For some reason, he's always felt he could shape into a bat, but that ability has never manifest itself.
When it's Mortimer's turn to climb down the rope, he take all the care and time that's necessary to safely make his way down (take 10).
(ooc: There's no way I'm relying on the die roller for this.)
Manolo (Michael A) -- AC 21/17/16 -- CMD 20 -- HP 43/43 ,-1 to Hit,Reflex,AC d10=6 ; Tuesday April 2nd, 2024 8:20:11 PM
"Let me climb this thing", Manolo says. Looking the Drack, internalizing what has been just said. He looks at his backpack with disbelief and says. "I don't have rope?"
Climb 14 (was supposed to take 10 but I don't have rope ): )
OOC: What do we do?
Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11 ( 15 Mage Armor)(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 36/36 Tuesday April 2nd, 2024 9:51:11 PM
"If it's closer to 80, we can us Mortimers rope and follow it with some of our clothes tied up, and get close to the 80 feet. If its more, we're an icicle in on eof the Hells. " Ash jokes. "Maybe its not in the cards and will have to be pushed off till tommorow. "
Hank (Tanner) -- AC 24/12/22 -- CMD 24 -- HP 70 Tuesday April 2nd, 2024 11:35:11 PM "Time to try out these new kicks." Hank steps up on the lip of the well, takes a tentative step forward, and plants his foot on the inner wall. "Ohhh, yeah. Spider climbing." He draws his weapon, crouches down, and slowly makes his way down the well.
Gnubert Glitterdust (Wade) AC: 20 T: 14 F: 18 R: 9 F: 14 W: 11 HPS: 51/51 CMD: 6 Wednesday April 3rd, 2024 5:37:53 AM
Gnubert smiles as he removes a silken rope, hammer and pitons from his pack. "This should help." Gnubert waits his turn to go down the rope, taking 10 Gnubert goes down with ease.
DM Mitch and Hugh Wednesday April 3rd, 2024 8:29:12 AM Drack shares with the others his ballpark estimate of the depth and offers his 50 feet of rope while asking if anyone else has any. Torry mumbles as she peers down the well. Climbing isn’t one of her strong suits and she doesn’t have any rope nor can she see in the darkness but at least there isn’t any wickedness down there she could sense. Loryn did not carry a big rope but he could levitate but he didn’t give much thought to things. He figures the group is resourceful and offers a potion of levitate to the group before taking the plunge himself. Mortimer volunteers he has a rope but the well is a drop and he can’t see the bottom. He really wished he had a ring of feather falling or could turn into a bat. He figures with the 2 ropes they may be able to get to the bottom and is careful when it is his turn. Manolo volunteers to climb the thing but he doesn’t have any rope. Ash suggests spare clothing to extend the rope if needed. Hank tries his boots of spider climb. Gnubert also has rope and he gets down easily on his turn.
With three ropes across three people there’s more than enough length to cover the distance, which turns out to be roughly 120 feet. The bottom of the well expands out some giving enough room for most of the party to head down and fit. Long dry, the bottom is actually fairly pleasant as caves go, though things echo oddly.
Towards the south east there’s an opening where a crack in the wall seems to have slowly expanded over the years. Just wide enough for a single medium sized humanoid it stretches into the darkness farther than torches or darkvision lets the party see from here.
AC 13 HP 45/45 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K d20+11=27 ; Wednesday April 3rd, 2024 9:34:28 AM
Loryn arrives at the bottom shortly behind Hank and picks up the small rock he had placed his light spell on. the bottom here was going to get crowded pretty fast and so Loryn moves to the crack in the wall and steps through, holding his Light Rock over his head. If it is a corridor of sorts, he will head down it . With the rock he could see a solid 40' and that should suffice, or so he believes.
perception 27
Active Spell: Levitate 7/7 minutes Acid Ray 8/8 30' range 1d6+3 Innate Used: 1st lvl: 7/7 2nd lvl: 5/6 3rd lvl: 4/4
Torrynashkabbeth (Nick) HP:40/40 AC:21 F11: R13 W:15 Wednesday April 3rd, 2024 9:55:56 AM
Torryn collected herself at the bottom of the well. She wasn't overly enthused about her surroundings. It was far nicer above. Still there was a job to be done; so it was best to get on and do it.
"If Loryn is leading, who is second and stuff?" she asked unsure what position to take up. Perhaps it would be best if she was at the back, so that Hank and Drack could be present at the front in case of an 'incident'.
Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11 ( 15 Mage Armor)(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 36/36 Wednesday April 3rd, 2024 10:37:34 AM
Ash climbs down(takes 10), and meets the others at the bottom. Noticing Loryn holding the light, Ash moves closer and whispers " If you hold the light there, you're giving anyone with a bow a good target. "
Drack (Chris J) - hp 73/73 - AC 20 Wednesday April 3rd, 2024 11:03:06 AM
Drack quickly follows after Loryn, not wanting to let the spellcaster get too far ahead of him, and in trouble.
"I Have second Torry. I would have taken lead, but Loryn appears to be in a hurry. Hopefully this opens up shortly and we aren't trying to turn around and come back."
Lay hands: 9/10
Spells: 1st Level: Divine Favor, Bless, protection from evil 2nd Level: Shield other
Hank (Tanner) -- AC 24/12/22 -- CMD 24 -- HP 70 d20+1=21 ; Wednesday April 3rd, 2024 12:26:51 PM
Noticing the dark in the tunnel ahead, Hank holds his bat in front of him and concentrates for a moment. The blue crystal bat begins to glow, shedding an electric neon light in a small radius (equivalent to a Light spell). "I'm happy to take point, but I do not want to step on Drack's toes. I will follow up third in line."
Torryn nodded. That was pretty much what she'd expected. She waited at the back to take up a rear-guard position.
Manolo (Michael A) -- AC 21/17/16 -- CMD 20 -- HP 43/43 ,-1 to Hit,Reflex,AC Wednesday April 3rd, 2024 7:49:57 PM
"I am last or the one before the last", Manolo says hesitantly. He takes a few looks at the rope before starting to walk again with the group...
Gnubert Glitterdust (Wade) AC: 20 T: 14 F: 18 R: 9 F: 14 W: 11 HPS: 51/51 CMD: 6 d20+16=31 ; Wednesday April 3rd, 2024 9:40:15 PM
Gnubert tugs on the rope and then coils it against one wall before following the party into the crack. Gnubert murmurs a quick prayer to the Gods seeing the others duck in with scarce a check for danger. (Perception DC 31)
DM Mitch and Hugh Thursday April 4th, 2024 6:15:33 AM Loryn arrives at the bottom shortly after Hank ad picking up his light rock he moves to the crack in the wall and seeing it is a corridor starts to head down it. Torry collects herself at the bottom of the well. She wasn’t overly enthused about their surroundings and asks about marching order while reasoning she should be in the back. Ash climbs down and meets the others at the bottom suggesting Lorryn holding the light provides a target for anyone with a bow Drack quickly follows after Lorryn as he doesn’t want the spellcaster to get in trouble. He tells Torry that he has second and that hopefully this opens up shortly so that they don’t have to turn around. Hank notices the dark in the tunnel ahead and holds his bat in front of him, concentrating for a moment before it starts to glow. He volunteers to go third. Torry nods as things go as expected though she waits at the back to take up rear-guard position. Manolo says he’s either last or the one before last. He takes a few looks at the rope before walking again as a group. Gnubert tugs at the rope and coils it against the wall before following into the crack. He murmurs a quick prayer as he goes.
The party moves through the tunnel. It seems to have been made by damage to the side of the well followed by hundreds of years of erosion expanding it into a channel moving east and deeper underground. Fortunately it’s all long dry now. It’s a bit erratic in size, narrow enough to require squeezing at some points and wide enough to walk next to each other at others.
After about 150 feet the party can see the end of the tunnel where the stone changes from rough, natural rock to worked bricks once tightly fit together. It opens up into a much larger chamber, extending farther than darkvision or light lets the party see. A few petrified bits of broken tables and chairs are all that remains of whatever function this room once had.
There’s the sound and shuffling and movement coming from deeper in, out of sight of the party. Something has noticed your arrival. (We are in combat. You can take whatever actions you want on the way down the tunnel, but only a normal turn’s worth of actions once you see the end and your lights alert the enemy)
Torrynashkabbeth (Nick) HP:40/40 AC:25 F11: R13 W:15 Thursday April 4th, 2024 6:29:36 AM
Upon hearing something Torryn immediately invoked her Fey Armour (AC+4). Was it something dark and unnatural that had somehow survived in this desolate place for so long? That seemed to be the only possible explanation, for surely there wasn’t enough to sustain a living creature hereabouts. With the others arrayed ahead of her, there wasn’t much she could see or hear. She attempted to Detect Evil, but from the sounds she’d heard, whatever it was, was far out of limited range of detetction.
~~~
Spells etc: 5/day Mage Armour. 1 used. Shield
Fey Spark: used0/6 1st lvl: used 2/5 Lay on Hands: used 0/5 Stunning Fist: used 0/4 Smite Evil: used 0/1
~~~
Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.): ac:20/16/19. temp/hp:63/50. icy disposition, false life, darkvision, lucky d20+6=20 ; Thursday April 4th, 2024 10:27:33 AM
(ooc: Sorry for not posting yesterday, I fell asleep way early.)
Mortimer gives a few of his teammates a rolling, judgmental eye for having not prepared for this excursion. Good thing his haversack contains tools of the trade ... including those for grave digging.
When he makes his way to the bottom, he immediately draws his sickle. Its blade grows in size as it covers with ice. When they arrive to the vast open chamber and hear something was alerted to their presence, he immediately summons his heroic spirit from within.
(Mortimer casts Luckyism, aka Heroism, on himself. Duration: 80 minutes.)
(Perception: 20, to spot their attacker.)
Drack (Chris J) - hp 73/73 - AC 20 Thursday April 4th, 2024 11:16:48 AM
Drack curses quietly under his breath as he watches Loryn lead the way. The recklessness was not normal for Loryn. While quite capable, Loryn could not take the kind of damage that Drack could.
Drack will cast Bless, hoping it gets the whole party. He then whispers to Loryn. "Loryn, ya fool Gnome, slide behind me."
Spell Effects: Bless: +1 attacks and save vs. fear
Lay hands: 9/10
Spells: 1st Level: Divine Favor, Bless-c, protection from evil 2nd Level: Shield other
Hank (Tanner) -- AC 24/12/22 -- CMD 24 -- HP 70 Thursday April 4th, 2024 11:40:48 AM Breathe in, breathe out. Focus. Stay frosty.
"Unless there is a secondary entrance to the surface, our foes are either functionally immortal or living beings from the underdark. Drack and I will take point. Spellcasters should buff the party or shut down enemy melee. Strikers should focus on enemy spellcasters or maneuver for flanking. Keep tight, but be ready to scatter if they have area-of-effect." Hank moves to the front and maintains a defensive stance.
Hank (Tanner) -- AC 24/12/22 -- CMD 24 -- HP 70 Thursday April 4th, 2024 11:43:07 AM
OOC: Forgot to mention I am using Total Defense as a standard action. Total Defense: You can defend yourself as a standard action. You get a +4 dodge bonus to your AC for 1 round.
AC 13 HP 45/45 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K Thursday April 4th, 2024 12:23:27 PM
Loryn stops as he picks up the tell tale signs of the passage opening up in the Dim Light of his spell. He whispers back behind him, "70' up the passage opens up." Giving Drack a humph as the paladin moves past, "Not my first time underground you know." Hank slips past right behind Drack and Loryn can't help but like the boys enthusiasm.
Hank had a light source and so Loryn would simply keep ahold of his. Giving Hank a 10' lead, Loryn then begins to move up.
Perception 21 take 10
Active Spell: Light; Levitate 7/7 minutes Bless by Drack Acid Ray 8/8 30' range 1d6+3 Innate Used: 1st lvl: 7/7 2nd lvl: 5/6 3rd lvl: 4/4
Manolo (Michael A) -- AC 21/17/16 -- CMD 20 -- HP 43/43 ,-1 to Hit,Reflex,AC d10=10 ; Thursday April 4th, 2024 7:07:41 PM
'I forgot to buy the potion', Manolo thinks as they move ahead, he forgot the buy a potion of invisibility. He loads an arrow on the light crossbow, for combat readiness. He will try to keep himself as less visible as possible. Stealth (take 10 natural 10)- 23
OOC: If only one action can be done I choose stealth.
Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11 ( 15 Mage Armor)(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 36/36 Friday April 5th, 2024 1:13:19 AM
Ash quickly casts haste over himself and the party. Not knowing what's in store for them limits hid gameplan.
DM Mitch and Hugh Terra-Cotta Combat d20+10=19 ; d20+10=23 ; d20+10=13 ; d100=91 ; d100=32 ; d100=10 ; d8=4 ; Friday April 5th, 2024 7:37:05 AM Torry activates Fey Armor. She assumed it was something dark and unnatural and attempts to detect evil but does not sense the presence of evil. Mortimer gives a few of his teammates rolling judgemental eyes for not preparing for this excursion. He draws his blade when he reaches the bottom and casts luckyism and attempts to locate their foe Drack curses quietly at Loryn’s out of character recklessness and casts bless Hank says unless there is a second entrance their foes are either functionally immortal or come from the underdark. He gives some suggestions as to who should do what and moves to the front taking a defensive action. Loryn stops as he picks up the telltale sign of the passage opening in front of him and lets Drack and Hank move past him before following after Hank 10 feet behind. Manolo realizes he forgot to buy a potion of invisibility, loading an arrow in the light crossbow for combat readiness. He tries to keep himself as less visible as possible. Ash hastes the party as he doesn’t have enough information on their foe
Out other darkness march stone figures - clearly some kind of construct. They show an impressive amount of craftsmanship. The average stone golem is roughly cut in the general shape of a humanoid figure, but these look like soldiers with amazing detail, down to being able to see the individual links of the chainmail pattern carved into their stone ‘armor’. Armed with blade and shield they advance in formation protecting each other with their shield wall.
From behind the three advancing soldiers arrows fly at Hank and Drack, who block two of the three but the last arrow hits Drack for 7 damage.
(Combat map in header, I tried to place everyone where they indicated they would be)
Torrynashkabbeth (Nick) HP:40/40 AC:29 F11: R13 W:15 Friday April 5th, 2024 9:00:09 AM
The unmistakable sound of bows snapping and arrows hitting the ground informed Torryn that things had quickly taken a very dark turn. She invoked her Fey Shield and moved quickly forward. (Move 40'). Seeing what lay before her, it was her intent to sweep around the back of the constructs to tackle the archers, trusting to her Fey protections to keep her from most harm. She doubted shed be able to inflict much, if any, harm, but could at least occupy those things until the first lot were dispatched.
~~~
Header adjusted
Spells etc: 5/day: 2 used. Mage Armour. In effect. Shield. In effect.
Fey Spark: used0/6 1st lvl: used 2/5 Lay on Hands: used 0/5 Stunning Fist: used 0/4 Smite Evil: used 0/1
~~~
Drack (Chris J) - hp 67/73 - AC 21 Friday April 5th, 2024 10:04:01 AM
Drack nods approvingly as Loryn let's Drack pass. That quickly turns to surprise as Hank slides past him. He is about to call out "Oh no you Didn't", but quickly turns his focus back to the enemy, making a mental note to have a chat with the new guy. In the brief distraction, Drack takes an arrow, and gets even less pleased."
Spell Effects: Bless: +1 attacks and save vs. fear Haste: +1 to hit, ac, and reflex saves. extra attack on full attack, double move
(part 1)
Lay hands: 9/10
Spells: 1st Level: Divine Favor, Bless-c, protection from evil 2nd Level: Shield other
Drack (Chris J) - hp 67/73 - AC 21 d20+15=30 ; d10+12=21 ; Friday April 5th, 2024 10:12:43 AM
Drack will charge SS3(which i assume is a golem) (+2 attack, -2 ac due to charge) he will then swing once at SS3, power attacking by 2. Hitting ac 30 for 21 damage.
"Spellcasters, target those archers. We will deal with the ground pounders.Hank, let's tag team them one by one"
AC 13 HP 45/45 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K d20+6=13 ; d20+6=26 ; d20+6=21 ; 4d6=13 ; 4d6=9 ; Friday April 5th, 2024 10:15:27 AM
Arrows fly and Loryn instinctively winces as the sounds of metal being struck ring out in the chamber. Drack was made of pretty stern stuff, hopefully Hank was as well. The archers were a good distance, but the gnome could see them in the Dim light well enough for what he planned. Torrynashkabbeth was on the move, and while she trusted her Fey magic, Loryn...not so much.
Loryn steps in behind Hank, getting his Rod of Empowerment and casts a spell at the far end of the front rank of construct soldiers.
Move 5' step AO/16 Cast Scorching Ray Convert to Acid - Empowered at SS1 Hit Touch AC 13 Hero Point re-roll 26 crit 21 confirmed Dmg 13+6 crit +9+4 = 32
Active Spell: Light; Levitate 7/7 minutes; Bless by Drack; Haste by Ash 7/7 rnds Empower rod 2/3 Acid Ray 8/8 30' range 1d6+3 Innate Used: 1st lvl: 7/7 2nd lvl: 4/6 3rd lvl: 4/4
Hank (Tanner) -- AC 24/12/22 -- CMD 24 -- HP 70 d3=1 ; d20+16=27 ; 4d4+18=31 ; Friday April 5th, 2024 10:42:33 AM
(Please ignore the d3. Misclick on mobile.)
Hank's skin prickles as the 'arcane cocaine' hits his system. He smiles. He is alive. He crouches slightly, then rushes forward in a burst of speed.
(Move 35 feet, in a slight curve to avoid AoO, and stop one space southwest of SS3)
The Boar Rushes Down the Mountain. He brings his bat down in a diagonal swing from his right shoulder, aiming for the forehead of his target.
(Attack SS3 as a standard action. Power Attack and Vital Strike. Attack 27, Damage 31).
Spell Effects: Bless: +1 attacks and save vs. fear Haste: +1 to hit, ac, and reflex saves. extra attack on full attack, double move
Hank (Tanner) -- AC 24/12/22 -- CMD 24 -- HP 70 Friday April 5th, 2024 10:44:31 AM
(OOC: Drack and Hank may also have a +2 bonus to attacks on SS3 due to flanking.)
Gnubert Glitterdust (Wade) AC: 20 T: 14 F: 18 R: 9 F: 14 W: 11 HPS: 51/51 CMD: 6 d20+16=17 ; Friday April 5th, 2024 8:07:14 PM
OOC: Sorry about missing yesterday. I thought I posted and was wrong.
Gnubert shuffles steadily ahead as he hears the sounds of battle (AM15). The cleric hears Hank call out tactics and sighs internally guess I will have to find another way to be useful. Gnubert watches the two martial types attack and keeps an eye out for more trouble (Perception DC 17)
Manolo (Michael A) -- AC 21/17/16 -- CMD 20 -- HP 43/43 ,-1 to Hit,Reflex,AC Friday April 5th, 2024 10:35:28 PM
Manolo moves a to near thr battle (AL17) He will take a defensive action and defends himself for the moment being..assessing the situation and letting things unfold for now.
Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11 ( 15 Mage Armor)(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 36/36 d20+15=27 ; Friday April 5th, 2024 11:27:31 PM
Ash goes defensive first and casts Mage armor on himself. He looks at the constructs to recall everything he knows about them. (Knowledge arcane 27)
1st Charm person, Sleep, Magic missile x3 2nd Acid Arrow x 2, Glitterdust, See invisibility 3rd Fireball x2 4th Sum Monster IV, Dimension door
Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.): ac:25/21/21. temp/hp:63/50. icy disposition, false life, darkvision, lucky, bless, haste, shield d20+8=28 ; Saturday April 6th, 2024 1:15:34 AM
Mortimer feels multiple magical effects spark into life. He decides to add another link in the chain. The shadows from all around move to him and coalesce to form a protective shield.
He moves into the large chamber and positions himself where the column of stone soldiers are between him and the archers. He hopes this blocks their line of sight.
Mortimer mentally checks his magical arsenal. Most of his spells affect only living creatures and others affect the dead, but these stone golems are neither. At least that's what he remembers about the wood golem they fought not so long ago. He allows the next few seconds to consider his next action.
(Knowledge [Arcana]: 28, natural 20, to recall what he's knows about constructs.)
Drack (Chris J) - hp 67/73 - AC 21 Monday April 8th, 2024 8:36:35 AM
Drack prepares to swing again, while assessing the damage caused by his previous blow
DM Mitch and Hugh Terra-Cotta Combat d20=14 ; d20=7 ; d20=20 ; d20=9 ; d8+3=11 ; d8+3=7 ; d8+3=9 ; d8+3=5 ; d8+3=11 ; Monday April 8th, 2024 9:27:26 AM Torry hears the unmistakable sound of arrows hitting ground and invoked her fey shield. She then starts moving to sweep around and attack the archers. Drack nods in approval as Loryn lets him pass then see’s the new guy run off and figures they need to talk after this. He then charges SS3 only to see his blade slightly turned by the construction of the construct, doing damage but not as much as expected. Loryn steps up behind Hank and uses his empower rod to cast scorching ray converted to acid hitting the first soldier for 32 damage. (OOC: next time roll Caster Level vs SR; We rolled this time and got a 23 which succeeds) Hank also moves and attacks SS3 but his blade is slightly turned by the construction of the construct, doing damage but not as much as expected. Know Arcana - 17 Highlight to display spoiler: {DR5/bludgeoning} Gnubert shuffles steadily ahead and defers tactics to Hank while keeping an eye out for more trouble. Manolo moves closer to the battle while taking a defensive action. Ash casts mage armor and then looks at the constructs. Mortimer casts shield, moves forward, checks his arsenal and tries to remember what he knows about constructs
Mortimer and Ash Highlight to display spoiler: {You know these things are Terra Cotta soldiers. They have standard construct traits, but are also slightly resistant to any weapon that isn’t bludgeoning, have spell resistance and are immune to fire}
Stone Soldier 1 takes a five foot step forward then attacks Drack hitting him all 3 times. Slicing him with a longsword twice and a shortsword once. (27 vs AC; 9 damage) (24 vs AC; 7 damage) (22 vs AC; 6 damage)
Stone Soldier 2 also attacks Drack but only hits twice. Once with his longsword and once with his shortsword (25 vs AC; 12 damage) (27 vs AC; 8 damage) (16 vs AC; miss). Afterwards it takes a five foot step back.
Stone Soldier 3 is overwhelmed by the focused attacks of the party and destroyed. (so Drack took 42 total damage)
The archers pause for half a second, as if processing events compared to whatever orders their long dead masters gave them. Then they advance slightly to get a clear line of sight on the caster who just half melted one of the front line and fire their bows.
Stone Archer 1 lands a hit for 11 damage (vs AC 26) Stone Archer 2 lands a hit for 7 damage (vs AC 19) Stone Archer 3 lands a crit (nat 20 with a 21 to confirm) for a total of 25 damage. (43 total)
SS3 - 74 damage (Destroyed)
DM Mitch and Hugh Terra-Cotta Combat Monday April 8th, 2024 9:56:56 AM
The archers are attacking Loryn
Torrynashkabbeth (Nick) HP:40/40 AC:29 F11: R13 W:15 d20=6 ; Monday April 8th, 2024 10:51:49 AM
Seeing “big brother” Drack get so viciously hacked, Torryn changed her plans. She abandoned the notion of moving around to take on the archers. Instead she Moved upwards, knowing that she’d likely draw the archers’ attention, but also placing herself in a position to flank the thing attacking Drack.
OOC: Move 35’-40’ North and loose and arrow.
With bow in hand she quickly moved to a favourable location and loosed the arrow. It ignited upon leaving her bow. Alas, the shoot failed to hit its target.
Hits only AC:16 (18 with Flanking)
~~~
Spells etc: 5/day: 2 used. Mage Armour. In effect. Shield. In effect.
Fey Spark: used0/6 1st lvl: used 2/5 Lay on Hands: used 0/5 Stunning Fist: used 0/4 Smite Evil: used 0/1
~~~
AC 13 HP 2/45 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K Monday April 8th, 2024 12:06:16 PM
Loryn's mind swims with he pain, but it oddly passes quickly. His stomach feels cold, strange feeling, until he looks beneath his great nose and spies the pair of fletching protruding from just below his chest. 'That's going to leave a mark." he state woozily as blood pools under his fine silken tunic.
Loryn shambles his way back towards the opening Move to AT/14
Where he reaches into his magical pants and withdraws a potion
Active Spell: Light; Levitate 7/7 minutes; Bless by Drack; Haste by Ash 6/7 rnds Empower rod 2/3 Acid Ray 8/8 30' range 1d6+3 Innate Used: 1st lvl: 7/7 2nd lvl: 4/6 3rd lvl: 4/4
Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11 ( 15 Mage Armor)(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 36/36 6d6=21 ; Monday April 8th, 2024 6:28:45 PM
"Bludgeoning weapons if you have them " Ash yells out. He pulls his wand from his pocket and aims at one of the Terra cotta archers. "Apzay".
21 dmg, DC 18 for half
Manolo (Michael A) -- AC 21/17/16 -- CMD 20 -- HP 43/43 d20+10=24 ; d6+2=4 ; 4d6=15 ; 4d8+1=23 ; d8+1=9 ; Monday April 8th, 2024 7:18:11 PM
'The barrage was enough to kill', Manolo thinks quickly and his body reacts. 'I need to kill the dumb ones first', he further thinks and quickly drops his light cross bow. Manolo then proceeds to move behind the stone solider, flanking him(AJ14) and begins to attack viciously. "You damn things never refuse to bleed", he complains as he tries to stab it with the short sword.
Move AJ13 (it can be done without AOA by moving diagonally I think) Attack 28 (24+bless+haste+flank) Damage 4 Sneak/flank attack damage 15
OOC: if doing all actions is not possible, please treat this post as if Manolo uses his light cross bow instead. Alternative damage (crossbow) 9 Bless +1 bonus on attack rolls and save against fear Haste +1 bonus on attack rolls and a +1 dodge bonus to AC and Reflex saves, increase by movement by up to 30 feet
Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.): ac:25/21/21. temp/hp:63/50. icy disposition, false life, darkvision, lucky, bless, haste, shield d20+13=22 ; 4d4+4=16 ; Monday April 8th, 2024 10:42:51 PM
Agreeing with Ash's assessment, Mortimer adds, "Yeah, these walkin' clay pots were baked in fire ta be 'ard... fire won't hurt'em!"
Mortimer curses that he didn't buy the hammer he was planning on getting. However after seeing that Loryn's spell actually worked, it gives him a little hope that he's not completely helpless in this fight.
Mortimer mutters a few words of power. Taking a handful of shadow, he sends four shadowy bolts at the terracotta soldier in front of Drack.
(Mortimer casts Shadowbolt, aka Magic Missile, at SS1. SR Check: 22. Damage: 16 force damage.)
Manolo beat him to the punch. The rogue took the flanking position behind the soldier. So he decides close in on the soldier as well (move to AK14).
Mortimer asks Manolo, "Oye, ya got a hammer or club? That poker won't hurt'em ... they're empty clay jars!" He wonders if they knock them over, will they break on the floor.
Hank (Tanner) -- AC 24/12/22 -- CMD 24 -- HP 70 d20+18=21 ; 4d4+18=29 ; Monday April 8th, 2024 11:36:00 PM
Hank moves up to the next terracotta construct.
(Move 5 feet to AI15)
The Creeper Embraces the Oak. He swings forward low, bringing his bat upward to the target's torso like an uppercut.
(Attack SS1 as a standard action. Power Attack, Vital Strike, flanking. Attack 21, Damage 29).
Spell Effects: Bless: +1 attacks and save vs. fear Haste: +1 to hit, ac, and reflex saves. extra attack on full attack, double move
Gnubert Glitterdust (Wade) AC: 20 T: 14 F: 18 R: 9 F: 14 W: 11 HPS: 51/51 CMD: 6 3d8+7=19 ; Monday April 8th, 2024 11:54:14 PM
Gnubert watches in horror as 2 of his companions nearly drop under the onslaught. "Pull them back to the opening! You're getting hammered out here!" Gnubert snaps forward and touches Drack on the shoulder healing him, by converting a 4th level spell, for 27 points of health
Drack (Chris J) - hp 67/73 - AC 21 d6=5 ; d6=2 ; d6=5 ; d20+15=32 ; d10+12=17 ; d10+7=13 ; d20+10=11 ; d20+15=16 ; d10+12=17 ; d10+12=20 ; Tuesday April 9th, 2024 9:22:08 AM
Drack grunts with the flurry of blows being bestowed upon him. Using his Paladin ability to lay hands upon himself as a swift action, he does so, healing himself for 12
"Gnubert, I might need a little healing assistance here."
Drack will focus his attacks on SS1, so he can flank. He will power attack by 2. Hit ac 32 11 16 , damage 17 17 20
(screwed up the die roller, text is correct. back to back 1's in combat? I'm shocked and amazed)
Spell Effects: Bless: +1 attacks and save vs. fear Haste: +1 to hit, ac, and reflex saves. extra attack on full attack, double move
Lay hands: 8/10
Spells: 1st Level: Divine Favor, Bless-c, protection from evil 2nd Level: Shield other
DM Mitch and Hugh Terra-Cotta Combat d20+12=18 ; d20+12=27 ; d20+12=18 ; d8+5=7 ; d8+5=7 ; d8+5=8 ; Tuesday April 9th, 2024 5:50:33 PM Torry changes her plan seeing Drack get viciously hacked. She moves in a new direction and fires an arrow but misses. (OOC: Flanking does not apply to ranged attacks) Loryn’s mind swam with the pain but it passed quickly. He realizes that the arrows will leave a mark and shambles back towards where he entered Ash calls out for folks to use bludgeoning weapons if the party has them and aims at one of the Terra Cotta archers. He pulls out his wand and casts lightning bolt but the spell fizzles against the enemy’s shield. (OOC: next time roll vs SR using the wand’s CL of 6; we rolled for you and got an 8 but that failed) Manolo reasons the barrage was enough to kill and figures he needs to kill the dumb ones first. He sneak attacks SS1 Mortimer agrees on Ash’s assessment and adds that they resist fire. He curses his lack of hammer and magic missiles Stone Solider 1 defeating it’s spell resist. Hank uses his fighter feats to full extent and scores a strong blow against SS1 but again the construction of the construct turns aside blades partially Gnubert is horrified at the damage the party took and heals Drack. Drack heals himself and presses the attack, not quite downing his foe.
With Loryn out of sight the archers draw on the next person they see to magic - Ash. Three bows rise and three arrows pierce the mage’s defenses for a total of 22 damage (18, 27, and 18 to hit, 7, 7, and 8 damage) The 2 remaining soldiers decide to target Hank this time. One of the soldiers scores a critical hit with its wickedly sharp longsword (29 vs AC; 31 to confirm)(13 damage)(25 vs AC; 8 damage)
SS1:71 SS3: destroyed
Manolo (Michael A) -- AC 21/17/16 -- CMD 20 -- HP 43/43 Tuesday April 9th, 2024 6:16:06 PM
OOC: is it better to full round attack or should use improved trip and then attack ?
Hank (Tanner) -- AC 24/12/22 -- CMD 24 -- HP 70 d20+18=25 ; d20+18=31 ; 2d4+18=23 ; 2d4+18=23 ; Tuesday April 9th, 2024 6:18:38 PM
Hank takes the blows with gritted teeth, turning his attention to the newcomer.
(No movement.)
The Kingfisher Takes a Silverback. He feints from the upper right, before making a pommel strike to the face followed by a blow to the midsection from center-right.
(Attack SS2 as a full round action. Power Attack, flanking, extra attack with Haste. Attack 25, Damage 23, Attack 31, Damage 23... Total damage 46).
Effects: HP 49/70 Bless: +1 attacks and save vs. fear Haste: +1 to hit, ac, and reflex saves. extra attack on full attack, double move
As others had moved to assist Drack and Hank, Torryn felt that it was down to her to occupy the archers. She dropped the bow and moved up to them. Taking on board the advice about using blunt weapons, she thrust a hand forward intent on delivering a devastating Palm Strike to the chest. It was a good plan – poorly executed.
(Attack: 7+9:16. Another splendid miss. Apologies, I keep forgetting to use the Multi-roller and include the bonuses.)
~~~
Spells etc: 5/day: 2 used. Mage Armour. In effect. Shield. In effect.
Fey Spark: used0/6 1st lvl: used 2/5 Lay on Hands: used 0/5 Stunning Fist: used 0/4 Smite Evil: used 0/1
~~~
Manolo (Michael A) -- AC 21/17/16 -- CMD 20 -- HP 43/43 d20=1 ; d20=3 ; Tuesday April 9th, 2024 8:20:00 PM
Manolo is shouting at Morty's direction, "I don't have anything to smash the bastards to pieces". Manolo tries to trip the enemy he is flanking Used 1 hero point to reroll improved trip maneuver.
Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11 ( 15 Mage Armor)(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 14/36 d20+8=13 ; 3d4+3=13 ; Tuesday April 9th, 2024 9:20:13 PM
"Ooff" Ash lets out. "Thats a rough one. I'm a pin cushion at this point. "
Ash pockets the wand and sends three bolts at a clay pot.
Magic missle 13 dmg, 13 vs sr
Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.): ac:25/21/21. temp/hp:63/50. icy disposition, false life, darkvision, lucky, bless, haste, shield d20+11=12 ; d20+11=27 ; d20+11=30 ; d6+4=9 ; d6=3 ; d6+4=8 ; d6=3 ; Tuesday April 9th, 2024 9:35:09 PM
Mortimer winces from Manolo shouting in his ear. "I'm right beside ya, mate!"
He knows his slashing weapon won't have full effect against this clay jar soldier, but he gives it a try anyway. There are definitely a lot of cracks in its shell. Maybe he can finish him off. Mortimer slashes away with his icy, mithril sickle.
Gnubert Glitterdust (Wade) AC: 20 T: 14 F: 18 R: 9 F: 14 W: 11 HPS: 51/51 CMD: 6 2d8+7=15 ; Wednesday April 10th, 2024 12:40:16 AM
Gnubert keeps his hand on Drack's shoulder and casts another cure moderate on his friend healing him for 22 points.
Drack (Chris J) - hp 73/73 - AC 21 d20+15=29 ; d20+10=22 ; d20+15=17 ; d10+12=19 ; d10+12=21 ; d10+12=18 ; Wednesday April 10th, 2024 8:37:22 AM
Drack presses the attack on SS1, power attacking by 2. Hitting ac 29, 22, and 17 for damage of 19, 21, and 18. if SS1 falls, the remaining swings will be redirected at the other golem.
"Thank you Gnubert, i Needed a that."
Spell Effects: Bless: +1 attacks and save vs. fear Haste: +1 to hit, ac, and reflex saves. extra attack on full attack, double move
Lay hands: 8/10
Spells: 1st Level: Divine Favor, Bless-c, protection from evil 2nd Level: Shield other
AC 13 HP 15/45 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K 2d8+3=13 ; Wednesday April 10th, 2024 10:07:26 AM
Loryn stays put, he has little choice, as he drinks a potion of healing CMW 13
Active Spell: Light; Levitate 7/7 minutes; Bless by Drack; Haste by Ash 5/7 rnds Empower rod 2/3 Acid Ray 8/8 30' range 1d6+3 Innate Used: 1st lvl: 7/7 2nd lvl: 4/6 3rd lvl: 4/4
Manolo, when you are flanking, you get Sneak Attack damage and bonus's. Always better to Full Attack when you can
DM Mitch and Hugh Terra-Cotta Combat d20=5 ; d20+10=25 ; d20+11=31 ; d20+11=12 ; d20+11=28 ; d20+11=14 ; d20+11=17 ; d6=4 ; Wednesday April 10th, 2024 6:06:48 PM Hank takes his blows with gritted teeth before turning his attention to the newest soldier to arrive. His falchion does a lot of damage but the construction of the soldier brunts some of it. Torry continues to try to occupy the archers as others go to assist Drack and Hank but she misses with her open palm strike. Manolo tries to trip the enemy he is flanking but fails. Ash realizes he is a pincushion at this point and pockets his wand trying to cast magic missile only to see it fizzle against the soldier’s protection Mortimer tells Manolo that he’s right beside him and then attacks the badly damaged soldier with his sickle. Although the soldier is resistant to some of the sickle’s damage Mortimer does enough to cause the soldier to shatter into a bunch of pieces (OOC: it seems there is some confusion over how Arcane strike works; per the feat: Arcane Strike (Combat) You draw upon your arcane power to enhance your weapons with magical energy. Prerequisite: Ability to cast arcane spells. Benefit: As a swift action, you can imbue your weapons with a fraction of your power. For 1 round, your weapons deal +1 damage and are treated as magic for the purpose of overcoming damage reduction. For every five caster levels you possess, this bonus increases by +1, to a maximum of +5 at 20th level. Arcane strike ONLY affects damage; furthermore it treats your weapon as magic for the purpose of overcoming damage reduction so if your weapon is already magic it does not stack; however if your arcane strike bonus is higher than the bonus on the weapon you can replace the damage bonus with the higher value for 1 round Mortimer’s attack roll would be +1 weapon, + haste + lukyism so +9 not +11 and that hits and damage would be 8 + 3 cold and 7 + 3 cold which becomes 6 and 5 or 11 total; since it caps at +5 it effectively occupies the same bonus as the enhancement bonus on the weapon) Gnubert casts another heal on Drack. Drack thanks Gnubert and presses the attack landing two more hits. Loryn stays in cover and heals some more.
The last remaining stone soldier is much less effective without other soldiers to coordinate it’s assault with and it fails to get through Hank’s defenses.
The three archers lower their bows and draw stone swords much like the ones the frontline soldiers wield. One nearly manages a severe blow (nat 20 and then a nat 1 to confirm heh) but the dancer dodges all of the rest. (9 total damage)
Imbued with magical speed Torryrn spun and chopped at the construct before her. (SA1)
(Flurry. Haste (to Hit) and Arcane Strike on the damage. AC, Reflex adjusted. I forget the extra +1 to hit so the numbers listed26. 22. 21 are actually AC: 26, 22, 21. Should all attacks hit they deal a total of 14 damage. Her attacks count as +1. )
~~~
Spells etc: 5/day: 2 used. Mage Armour. In effect. Shield. In effect.
Fey Spark: used0/6 1st lvl: used 2/5 Lay on Hands: used 0/5 Stunning Fist: used 0/4 Smite Evil: used 0/1
~~~
Gnubert Glitterdust (Wade) AC: 20 T: 14 F: 18 R: 9 F: 14 W: 11 HPS: 51/51 CMD: 6 d8+5=9 ; Wednesday April 10th, 2024 6:56:53 PM
Gnubert moves up behind Torry and touches her on the shoulder converting a 1st level spell to cure minor healing the dancer for 13 points
Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.): ac:25/21/21. temp/hp:63/50. icy disposition, false life, darkvision, lucky, bless, haste, shield Wednesday April 10th, 2024 6:58:51 PM
The Arcane Strike feat doesn’t say it’s an enhancement bonus, it’s an unnamed bonus and therefore it will stack with the +1 enhancement bonus of the weapon. Otherwise the feat would be worthless. Plus I only applied the Arcane Strike bonus to the damage.
Manolo (Michael A) -- AC 21/17/16 -- CMD 20 -- HP 43/43 d20=8 ; Wednesday April 10th, 2024 7:44:05 PM
Manolo tries to trip the nearest enemy.
Improved trip 16 (8+8)(didn't include flank) Manolo will also flank it if the movement doesn't cause Attack of opportunity.
Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.): ac:25/21/21. temp/hp:63/50. icy disposition, false life, darkvision, lucky, bless, haste, shield d20+13=26 ; d20+13=14 ; d20+13=22 ; 4d4+4=17 ; Wednesday April 10th, 2024 10:03:17 PM
Mortimer smiles with a wicked satisfaction. He steps back (5ft Step) and grabs another handful of shadow and sends four dark streaking bolts at the last standing soldier (SS2).
(Mortimer casts Shadow Bolts at SS2. SR Check: 14, natural 1, Hero Point Reroll: 22. Damage: 17 force damage.)
Hank (Tanner) -- AC 24/12/22 -- CMD 24 -- HP 70 d20+18=30 ; d20+18=31 ; d20+13=15 ; 2d4+18=22 ; 2d4+18=23 ; Wednesday April 10th, 2024 11:27:35 PM
(No movement.)
Soft Rain at Sunset. He chokes up on the bat and makes a side-swipe at the construct's neck, followed by a a lunge at the face wielding his weapon like a spear.
(Attack SS2 as a full round action. Power Attack, flanking, extra attack with Haste. Attack 30, Damage 22, Attack 31, Damage 23... Total damage 45).
Effects: HP 49/70 Bless: +1 attacks and save vs. fear Haste: +1 to hit, ac, and reflex saves. extra attack on full attack, double move
Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11 ( 15 Mage Armor)(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 14/36 d20+8=21 ; 3d4+3=15 ; Thursday April 11th, 2024 12:17:25 AM
Ash unleashed another three bolts at an archer clay creature. This time he had better luck with the spell reistance.. (sr 21, 15 damage)
AC 13 HP 15/45 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K d20+7=22 ; 3d4+3=10 ; Thursday April 11th, 2024 8:51:56 AM
Loryn moves up to the entry of the chamber to peek in Move AP/15 He wanted, perhaps needed to save his other potion of healing. He casts Magic Missile at SA1 to assist Torrynashkabbeth
SR 22 Dmg 10
Active Spell: Light; Levitate 7/7 minutes; Bless by Drack; Haste by Ash 4/7 rnds Empower rod 2/3 Acid Ray 8/8 30' range 1d6+3 Innate Used: 1st lvl: 6/7 2nd lvl: 4/6 3rd lvl: 4/4
Drack (Chris J) - hp 73/73 - AC 21 d20+15=18 ; d10+12=14 ; Thursday April 11th, 2024 9:31:30 AM
Assuming SS2 is down, Drack will charge SA3, and swing once, power attacking by 2. Hit ac 18, damage 14(stupid die roller)
Spell Effects: Bless: +1 attacks and save vs. fear Haste: +1 to hit, ac, and reflex saves. extra attack on full attack, double move
Lay hands: 8/10
Spells: 1st Level: Divine Favor, Bless-c, protection from evil 2nd Level: Shield other
Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.): ac:25/21/21. temp/hp:63/50. icy disposition, false life, darkvision, lucky, bless, haste, shield Thursday April 11th, 2024 9:57:13 AM
(ooc: Dan, at level 7, Magic Missile gives you 4 missiles.)
Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11 ( 15 Mage Armor)(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 14/36 d4+1=4 ; Thursday April 11th, 2024 11:51:12 AM
Ooc: Update for Magic Missle 19 dmg, sr 21.
“-bert” Torryn managed to whisper between her dodges and parries. Her arms swept in smooth circles seeking to thwart as many of the incoming attacks as possible.
(She will be attacking again next round)
~~~ Haste in effect
Spells etc: 5/day: 2 used. Mage Armour. In effect. Shield. In effect.
Fey Spark: used0/6 1st lvl: used 2/5 Lay on Hands: used 0/5 Stunning Fist: used 0/4 Smite Evil: used 0/1
~~~
DM Mitch and Hugh Terra-Cotta Combat d20+11=12 ; d20+11=14 ; d20+11=15 ; Thursday April 11th, 2024 6:10:11 PM Torry spins and chops the first archer and thanks Gnubert for the healing. Gnubert moves up behind Torry and heals her with a converted 1st level spell. Mortimer Destroys SS2 with shadow bolts Manolo tries to trip the nearest archer but it remains standing Hank went to attack SS2 but it was already downed by Mortimer’s shadow bolts Ash unleashes another 3 bolts at an archer clay creature Loryn peaks out of his safe space and casts a spell to help. Drack charges at the archers but his blows are blocked by the stone blade.
The archers press the attack on the dancer, but with rolls of a 1, 3, and 4 they hit nothing but thin air.
Manolo (Michael A) -- AC 21/17/16 -- CMD 20 -- HP 43/43 d20+14=30 ; d6=4 ; 4d6=7 ; Thursday April 11th, 2024 8:32:17 PM
If no flank Manolo tries to trip the enemy (SA3) with a ferocious crazy smile," just fall already! you piece of stone!" Trip 25 (16+5+1+1+2)(d20+BAB+STR mod+bless+haste+improved trip feat)
If flanking an enemy in melee Manolo attack the enemy with short sword Attack roll 30 Damage 4 Sneak attack 7 Ooc: thanks for moving the character, Ooc : I think I got confused with the CMB bonus...
Manolo (Michael A) -- AC 21/17/16 -- CMD 20 -- HP 43/43 d20=5 ; Thursday April 11th, 2024 8:34:02 PM
Ooc rolled another roll if needed for the trip instead Trip 14
Gnubert Glitterdust (Wade) AC: 20 T: 14 F: 18 R: 9 F: 14 W: 11 HPS: 51/51 CMD: 6 2d8+7=16 ; Thursday April 11th, 2024 9:56:58 PM
Gnubert slides back to Loryn and administers a quick Cure Moderate for 24 points of healing
Hank (Tanner) -- AC 24/12/22 -- CMD 24 -- HP 70 d20+18=30 ; 4d4+18=31 ; Thursday April 11th, 2024 11:14:55 PM
Hank has to catch himself as he swings at air, the construct already having been demolished. He composes himself and moves toward the next target.
(Move 20 feet to AF13 as a move action.)
Let's try that again. Soft Rain at Sunset. He chokes up on the bat and makes a side-swipe at the construct's neck, followed by a a lunge at the face wielding his weapon like a spear.
(Attack SA3 as a standard action. Vital Strike, Power Attack, flanking. Attack 30, Damage 31).
Effects: HP 49/70 Bless: +1 attacks and save vs. fear Haste: +1 to hit, ac, and reflex saves. extra attack on full attack, double move
Again Torryn span around, this time to snap out two back kicks; low to the knee and then high to the chest before spinning back the other way to slam an elbow into its gut. At least, that had been the plan. The constructs though were surprisingly durable; so she didn’t manage to inflict the harm that she had hoped for.
Not sure of their AC. Attacks…. #1. AC: 19 for 4 #2. AC:26 for 6 #3.AC:16 for 3
~~~ Haste in effect
Spells etc: 5/day: 2 used. Mage Armour. In effect. Shield. In effect.
Fey Spark: used0/6 1st lvl: used 2/5 Lay on Hands: used 0/5 Stunning Fist: used 0/4 Smite Evil: used 0/1
~~~
Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11 ( 15 Mage Armor)(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 14/36 d20+7=19 ; 4d4+4=16 ; Friday April 12th, 2024 7:02:25 AM
Ash unleashes another 4 bolts at an uninjured golem. 16 dmg, sr19
AC 13 HP 39/45 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K d20+7=10 ; d20+7=21 ; 4d4+4=13 ; Friday April 12th, 2024 10:00:52 AM
Gnubert arrives and his fellow gnome casts a much appreciated Healing spell. "A literal god-send Gnubert, you are
Loryn tries to assist Ash and sends another volley of his own Magic Missiles Target: SA2 SR 10 Hero point SR 21 Dmg 13
Active Spell: Light; Levitate 7/7 minutes; Bless by Drack; Haste by Ash 3/7 rnds Empower rod 2/3 Acid Ray 8/8 30' range 1d6+3 Innate Used: 1st lvl: 5/7 2nd lvl: 4/6 3rd lvl: 4/4
Drack (Chris J) - hp 73/73 - AC 21 d20+13=20 ; d20+8=22 ; d20+13=15 ; d10+13=19 ; d10+13=16 ; d10+13=21 ; Friday April 12th, 2024 10:28:10 AM
If SA3 is still standing, Drack will launch all his attacks at it. if already down, he will take a 5' step toward the next golem, and unleash on him. power attack by 2. hit ac 20, 22, and 15 for damage of 19, 16, and 21
Spell Effects: Bless: +1 attacks and save vs. fear Haste: +1 to hit, ac, and reflex saves. extra attack on full attack, double move
Lay hands: 8/10
Spells: 1st Level: Divine Favor, Bless-c, protection from evil 2nd Level: Shield other
Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.): ac:25/21/21. temp/hp:63/50. icy disposition, false life, darkvision, lucky, bless, haste, shield d20+13=14 ; 4d4+4=13 ; Friday April 12th, 2024 10:45:42 PM
Mortimer sends another volley of shadowy bolts to the next construct in line.
(Mortimer casts shadow bolts at SA3 or SA1, whichever is still standing. SR check: 14, natural 1. Damage: Lucky number 13. Yeah right!)
Gnubert Glitterdust (Wade) AC: 20 T: 14 F: 18 R: 9 F: 14 W: 11 HPS: 51/51 CMD: 6 2d8+7=21 ; Saturday April 13th, 2024 7:39:30 AM
Gnubert shakes his head seeing Hank is injured and runs out to heal the fighter casting Cure Moderate on this for 28 poin5s of healing
Hank (Tanner) -- AC 24/12/22 -- CMD 24 -- HP 70 Sunday April 14th, 2024 10:39:08 AM During times like these, Hank often had flashes of memory to his boyhood days. Lots of memories of being picked on by the children in other merchant families. "Look at dum-dum! He struggles to grasp the contributions of fractional reserve banking to inflationary pressure!" They stopped laughing, of course, when Hank reached puberty and suddenly towered over them all, but that did not stop their condescending tone for years to come. It was only after intensive training with the family swordmaster that he finally earned a modicum of respect. Ah, Trimothy the Swordmaster, those were fine times. He missed the zen and purity of dedicated martial training. He would never forget what Trimothy told him before he left on his first caravan tour, "Contrary to what most people say, the most dangerous animal in the world is not the lion or the tiger or even the elephant. It's a shark riding on an elephant's back, just trampling and eating everything they see." It was a good thing that Trimothy was such a good swordmaster; it made up for all the day-drinking.
Manolo (Michael A) -- AC 21/17/16 -- CMD 20 -- HP 43/43 Sunday April 14th, 2024 8:25:02 PM
A thought arises., something Lanliss said once long time ago...it was about close combat.
DM Mitch and Hugh Terra-Cotta Combat d20+11=21 ; d20+11=20 ; Monday April 15th, 2024 6:24:32 AM Manolo tries to trip SA3 and succeeds in doing so. Gnubert slides back to Loryn and administers a quick cure moderate wounds spell Hank has to catch himself as the construct he was fighting crumbles and then refocuses his attention at SA3 Torry continues to fight SA1 and strikes a single blow for 6 Ash unleashes a barrage of bolts at SA2 Loryn tries to assist Ash and sends another volley of his own magic missiles Drack continues to attack SA3 and lands a single blow for 16 damage Mortimer casts shadowy bolts at the next construct in line only to have them fizzle (OOC: RE: Arcane Strike; I stand corrected; it would appear the majority of fellow DMs surveyed agree with the RAW interpretation of the bonus being unnamed; whether that was intentional or not who can say; I just wish I interpreted it that way back when I played a dragon disciple who wielded an elvish curve blade that was +2 b/c I never used arcane strike w/ that weapon but I digress) Gnubert shakes his head seeing Hank injured and runs out to cast cure moderate wounds on him Hank looks back on his past. (OOC: The Wold uses fractional reserve banking like the US Federal Reserve? Is that how the catacombs can have every single magic item when needed the money to create the magic items is just created out of thin air)
The two standing archers try to respond to their attackers but are easily warded off.
The tripped archer stands, provoking attacks of opportunity from those in melee of it.
Torryn snapped a kick out at the creature seeking to regain its feet. Her kick struck true, but alas, it was but a glancing blow. She refocused her efforts on the thing that she’d been fighting. Refocusing was far easier said than done. The construct was so touch it seemed to have unbalanced her. Her first 2 blows missed. The second miss was dreadful! The last attempt (hasted) struck home. Still somewhat unblanced, it was yet another glancing blow
Not very sure of their AC. Attacks…. AoO: AC:29. For 2 damage.
#1. AC: 19 for 4 #2. AC:26 for 6 #3.AC:16 for 3
___
(OOC: Take that, Drack! 3 x 1’s rolled :) Dear DM's, by all means discount the last hit as it was preceded by a natural 1 on the second attack. Unsure of your ruling on such things.
~~~ Haste in effect
Spells etc: 5/day: 2 used. Mage Armour. In effect. Shield. In effect.
Fey Spark: used0/6 1st lvl: used 2/5 Lay on Hands: used 0/5 Stunning Fist: used 0/4 Smite Evil: used 0/1
~~~
Drack (Chris J) - hp 73/73 - AC 21 d20+13=32 ; d20+13=21 ; d10+13=21 ; d10+13=19 ; d20+8=12 ; d20+13=30 ; d10+13=17 ; Monday April 15th, 2024 9:10:21 AM
Drack will press the attack on SA3, power attacking by 2. attack 1 hit ac 32, threat, 21ac to crit. damage 21, or 40 if a crit. second swing 12 ac, miss. third swing ac 30 for 17 damage.
Spell Effects: Bless: +1 attacks and save vs. fear Haste: +1 to hit, ac, and reflex saves. extra attack on full attack, double move
Lay hands: 8/10
Spells: 1st Level: Divine Favor, Bless-c, protection from evil 2nd Level: Shield other
AC 13 HP 39/45 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K d20+11=24 ; Monday April 15th, 2024 10:05:48 AM
The last 2 archers were nearly surrounded and the team of Torrynashkabbeth, Hank and Drack were starting to find a rhythm. Loryn heads across the room to have a look in one of the other chambers. Perception 24
Active Spell: Light; Levitate 7/7 minutes; Bless by Drack; Haste by Ash 2/7 rnds Empower rod 2/3 Acid Ray 8/8 30' range 1d6+3 Innate Used: 1st lvl: 5/7 2nd lvl: 4/6 3rd lvl: 4/4
Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11 ( 15 Mage Armor)(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 14/36 4d4+4=15 ; d20+8=28 ; Monday April 15th, 2024 1:01:27 PM
Ash unleashes his last magic missle (sr28, 15 dmg) at one of the archers.
Hank (Tanner) -- AC 24/12/22 -- CMD 24 -- HP 70 d20+18=38 ; d20+18=30 ; 4d4+36=49 ; d20+18=37 ; d20+18=21 ; 4d4+18=30 ; Monday April 15th, 2024 2:49:27 PM Thanks for the healing, buddy!" Hank nods to Gnubert. He makes an attack of opportunity against SA3.
(Attack 38 critical threat, Attack 30 critical confirmation, Damage 49, I am going to guess that destroyed it.)
Hank steps forward to the next target.
(Move 5 feet to AF12.)
Arc of the Moon. He brings his bat overhead and brings it down like a piledriver.
(Attack SA2 as a standard action. Vital Strike, Power Attack, flanking. Attack 37 critical threat, Attack 21 critical confirmation (probably not), Damage 30).
Effects: HP 70/70 Bless: +1 attacks and save vs. fear Haste: +1 to hit, ac, and reflex saves. extra attack on full attack, double move
Gnubert Glitterdust (Wade) AC: 20 T: 14 F: 18 R: 9 F: 14 W: 11 HPS: 51/51 CMD: 6 2d8+7=21 ; Monday April 15th, 2024 5:50:11 PM
Gnubert smiles at Hank, "Hit more! Get hit less!" he says with a laugh. Gnubert surveys the field, we have really got to work on tactics, these golem really did a number on us. he thinks as he scans the area for the next in need of assistance. Gnubert hustles off to Ash and casts a cure moderate wounds on him healing him for 31 points of healing.
Manolo (Michael A) -- AC 21/17/16 -- CMD 20 -- HP 43/43 d20+10=13 ; Monday April 15th, 2024 8:21:26 PM
Manolo moves to be near the farthest archer and tries to trip him over with his short sword.
Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.): ac:25/21/21. temp/hp:63/50. icy disposition, false life, darkvision, lucky, bless, haste, shield d20+14=18 ; d6+5=7 ; d6=5 ; Tuesday April 16th, 2024 12:46:07 AM
Seeing that his spell had fizzled, he decides to do a little manuevering and charges the archer in the back (SA2). With his icy slckle, he brings a frozen day of reckoning down upon his cheap clay opponent.
(Mortimer charges SA2. Haste, Bless, Luckyism, Arcane Strike and Darkvision for good measure. HitAC: 18. Damage: 7slash + 5cold = 12 damage.)
Along the way, he stubbed his toe on the edge of a protruding dice-shaped brick in the floor.
(ooc: I hate the die roller so very much.)
DM Mitch and Hugh Terra-Cotta Combat d20+11=17 ; d20+11=20 ; Tuesday April 16th, 2024 5:32:28 AM Torry snapped a kick at the archer as it regained its footing but it was only a glancing blow. She refocused her efforts on the one she was attacking and manages to hit it once. Drack destroys SA3 with a critical hit power attack Loryn peers into one of the other chambers Ash unleashes his last magic missile at one of the archers and hits archer 1 Hank thanks Gnubert for the healing and then steps towards the next target damaging it mightily Gnubert tells Hank to hit more and get hit less figuring the team needs to work on tactics while he moves to heal Ash Manolo tries and fails to trip an archer again Mortimer charges the enemy but stubs his toe causing him to miss.
The stone archers try to press the attack, looking very much worse for wear, but it seems the effectiveness of these creatures relies on their coordination and team work as their previously viciously accurate attacks are now being consistently defeated by the party’s defenses.
It was not for Sacred Dancers to become downhearted. So undeterred, Torryn continued to press her attack. Again she sent a flurry of blows at the archer in front of her, but such was its toughness that only one appeared to do any damage.
~~~ #1. AC:18 #2. AC:12 #3.AC:21 for 6 ( Includes Arcane Strike.....if that attack even hits)
~~~ Haste in effect
Spells etc: 5/day: 2 used. Mage Armour. In effect. Shield. In effect.
Fey Spark: used0/6 1st lvl: used 2/5 Lay on Hands: used 0/5 Stunning Fist: used 0/4 Smite Evil: used 0/1
~~~
AC 13 HP 39/45 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K Tuesday April 16th, 2024 9:52:22 AM
Not seeing anything from his current position, Loryn enters and begins looking around
Perception take 10 = 21
Active Spell: Light; Levitate 7/7 minutes; Bless by Drack; Haste by Ash 1/7 rnds Empower rod 2/3 Acid Ray 8/8 30' range 1d6+3 Innate Used: 1st lvl: 5/7 2nd lvl: 4/6 3rd lvl: 4/4
Drack (Chris J) - hp 73/73 - AC 21 d20+13=28 ; d20+8=26 ; d20+8=20 ; d20+13=14 ; d10+13=17 ; d10+13=16 ; d10+13=15 ; Tuesday April 16th, 2024 10:02:28 AM
Drack moves on to SA1. attack 1, ac 28. attack two, threat on ac 26, confirm on ac 20. attack 3 miss. Damage swing 1, 17. damage swing two, 31(16 on a miss to the crit)
Spell Effects: Bless: +1 attacks and save vs. fear Haste: +1 to hit, ac, and reflex saves. extra attack on full attack, double move
Lay hands: 8/10
Spells: 1st Level: Divine Favor, Bless-c, protection from evil 2nd Level: Shield other
Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.): ac:25/21/21. temp/hp:63/50. icy disposition, false life, darkvision, lucky, bless, haste, shield d20+12=13 ; d20+12=32 ; d20+12=29 ; d6+5=7 ; d6+5=7 ; d6=4 ; d6=6 ; Tuesday April 16th, 2024 11:22:33 AM
Mortimer continues his icy onslaught ... but his toe still hurts ... "Bollocks!" Pain never seemed to affect him much, but a good, solid toe stubbing was an exception to this. However the viciousness of his second slash seemed to be fueled by his pain-filled fury. It cuts hard and deep.
(ooc: I believe that's only his 3rd crit of his adventuring career. His last one produced only 4 damage!)
Manolo (Michael A) -- AC 21/17/16 -- CMD 20 -- HP 43/43 d20+10=21 ; Tuesday April 16th, 2024 7:57:40 PM
Manolo out of anger tries to trip the archer again, this time with his left leg.
Trip 21 ( same mods as before, assuming bless and haste are still on)
Gnubert Glitterdust (Wade) AC: 20 T: 14 F: 18 R: 9 F: 14 W: 11 HPS: 51/51 CMD: 6 d20+16=21 ; Tuesday April 16th, 2024 8:22:46 PM
Gnubert takes a deep breath seeing his friends are mostly ok for the most part. Gnubert looks around for any additional danger (Perception DC 21)
Hank (Tanner) -- AC 24/12/22 -- CMD 24 -- HP 70 d20+18=28 ; 4d4+18=29 ; Tuesday April 16th, 2024 9:16:50 PM "Let's end this!" Hank steps forward to attack the other archer.
(5-foot-step to AF11.)
Parting the Silk. He winds up and swings laterally from the left with all his might.
(Attack SA2 as a standard action. Vital Strike, Power Attack, flanking. Attack 28, Damage 29).
Effects: HP 70/70 Bless: +1 attacks and save vs. fear Haste: +1 to hit, ac, and reflex saves. extra attack on full attack, double move
DM Mitch and Hugh Terra-Cotta Combat Wednesday April 17th, 2024 7:33:25 AM Torry continues to press her attack hitting once for 6 Loryn enters the next room and looks around. Drack destroys SA1 with his first strike Mortimer destroys the remaining terra cotta archer with a critical hit. Manolo goes to trip but there is nothing to trip Gnubert looks around for additional dander Hank says it is time to end things only there is nothing to end
With the last of the constructs felled the party has a chance to take in their surroundings more. This looks like some kind of ancient mess hall, untouched for long enough for almost all the furniture to be reduced to dust. A few petrified broken pieces are all that’s left, old benches in tables scattered about. There’s a few rooms to the west, the constructs came out of rooms to the north, and to the south is a staircase.
Hank (Tanner) -- AC 24/12/22 -- CMD 24 -- HP 70 Wednesday April 17th, 2024 7:50:43 AM
Hank hefts his bat to his shoulder and smiles. "Go team! Whoo! Now we can keep going. Do we want to keep some of the tankier members up front, or do we have some sneaky members who want to try to scout ahead with stealth? I am fine either way."
AC 13 HP 39/45 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K Wednesday April 17th, 2024 9:44:54 AM
Not seeing anything from his current position, Loryn enters another of the west rooms and begins looking around
Perception take 10 = 21
Active Spell: Light; Levitate 7/7 minutes; Bless by Drack Empower rod 2/3 Acid Ray 8/8 30' range 1d6+3 Innate Used: 1st lvl: 5/7 2nd lvl: 4/6 3rd lvl: 4/4
Torrynashkabbeth (Nick) HP:31/40 AC:30 F11: R14 W:15 d20+11=19 ; Wednesday April 17th, 2024 9:56:47 AM
~~
Stairs are always interesting. Torryn elected to scamper that way. With an excited skip and pirouette she made her way south to see if those steps ascended or descended. Not just that! She decided to take a leaf out of ‘Big Brother Drack’s’ book and see if there was any evil lurking there. ~~~
Detect Evil. Perception: 19 (listening as well as looking)
~~~ Haste in effect ?
Spells etc: 5/day: 2 used. Mage Armour. In effect. Shield. In effect.
Fey Spark: used0/6 1st lvl: used 2/5 Lay on Hands: used 0/5 Stunning Fist: used 0/4 Smite Evil: used 0/1
~~~
Drack (Chris J) - hp 73/73 - AC 21 Wednesday April 17th, 2024 10:23:48 AM
"Spread out and search this floor for anything hidden, and then we take the stairs. Does anyone need healing?"
Gnubert Glitterdust (Wade) AC: 20 T: 14 F: 18 R: 9 F: 14 W: 11 HPS: 51/51 CMD: 6 Wednesday April 17th, 2024 9:18:14 PM
Gnubert looks around, "Drack, I can channel if we need to. You can save your lay on hand abilities for an emergency if you like. Hank, maybe we should discuss tactics in battle. Charging into wide open spaces is great in books but horrible in reality. Cover is a good thing, and bottlenecks for us are great. I only have so much healing, and I like hitting things as much as anyone else but I was running my legs off trying to keep us all up during the last fight. We should all work to our strengths together." Gnubert smiles at the group as they begin searching the room
Manolo (Michael A) -- AC 21/17/16 -- CMD 20 -- HP 43/43 d20=11 ; Wednesday April 17th, 2024 9:21:23 PM
Manolo searches for hidden compartments and things that are unusual in the hall they were in. Perception 22
Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11 ( 15 Mage Armor)(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 14/36 d20+8=12 ; Wednesday April 17th, 2024 9:57:47 PM
Ash begins looking around with the others, but the mess hall itself keeps distracting him. (Perception 12)
Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.): ac:25/21/21. temp/hp:63/50. icy disposition, false life, darkvision, lucky, bless, haste, shield d20+6=16 ; d20+6=25 ; Thursday April 18th, 2024 12:46:49 AM
In response to the conversation about healing, "All ya needta do is not get poked at. Simple duck, dip an' dodge, yeah," Mortimer says with his usual sly tone and wicked smile.
He chuckles a bit while looking down at the various broken terracotta pieces. If there were any pieces, containing mostly of a face, he will take it. Who knows, maybe using it as a kind of mask would fool other golems that he is one of them. Or better yet, be a key to enter a room they were programmed to guard. (Perception: 16, looking through the terracotta remains.)
Mortimer then turns to the room to the north and gives the place a good look over (darkvision 60'). (Perception: 25, looking around the north room.)
DM Mitch and Hugh Terra-Cotta Combat Thursday April 18th, 2024 8:04:18 AM Hank congratulates the team and asks if the party wants to tank or stealth going forward. Loryn enters another room and begins looking around. Torry is interested in checking out the stairs reasoning that they are always interesting and starts to investigate seeing what direction they go and if they are possibly evil. Drack tells the others to spread out and look for anything hidden and then check the stairs. Gnubert looks around and tells Drack he can channel positive energy and suggests to Hank they improve their tactics since Gnubert had his hands full healing everyone in that last battle. Manolo searches for hidden compartments and things unusual
You find amongst the wreckage of the soldiers 3 longswords, 6 shortswords and 3 +3 Strength rated Compound Longbows The ancient stone soldiers came from the north room. Imprints in the dust indicate where they once stood, and rusted bits of weapons lean against the walls. A sole wooden training dummy, badly damaged but somehow enduring the years, lays on the floor and a great doorway on the far side of the room is completely filled with fallen debris.
The southmost room to the west looks to have once been the kitchen for the mess hall. It has a series of ancient fireplaces, long collapsed and filled with rubble, along the back wall. A few ancient cauldrons nearly rusted to nothing is all that remains.
The last two rooms are the most run down. Part of the wall between them has collapsed into a pile of rubble, and only a few wooden bed frames have survived the centuries.
While nothing of particular use remains after all these years combined these rooms seem promising. At best guess these ancient underground rooms indicate a training room, quarters, and places to eat for at least a semi-large and organized armed group which does match the name “Spire Armory”.
Torry’s quick check of the stairs show they go down at least a floor. The stairs are wide, enough for 3 or 4 people to walk down together, and no evil emanates from below, at least not that she can detect from up here. Presumably she doesn’t head all the way down into potential danger solo.
Hank (Tanner) -- AC 24/12/22 -- CMD 24 -- HP 70 Thursday April 18th, 2024 8:12:59 AM "Normally I would not rush into combat when we could lure our enemies back to take advantage of a bottleneck, but the presence of the archers and lack of cover made me think that the bottleneck would have turned into a murder-alley rather quickly. I am sorry for all of the healing you had to do, Gnubert." Hank perks up st the mention of the path found by Torrynashkabeth. "Then let us proceed. You know, this place could be rather nice if someone took the time to clean and refurbish it. You could certainly list it on LairBnB and find people wanting to stay."
Torrynashkabbeth (Nick) HP:40/40 AC:25 F11: R12 W:15 Thursday April 18th, 2024 8:19:04 AM
~~
”Hey, everyone, there are steps – big steps – that go down. I bet this is the way we need to go.” She informed the others as she waited impatiently. It was dark down here and even darker down those stairs. She needed light to proceed and that wasn’t yet within the grasp of her Fey magic.
~~~
Header adjusted – removed effects of Haste and Shield
~~~
Spells etc: 5/day: 2 used. Mage Armour. In effect.
Fey Spark: used0/6 1st lvl: used 2/5 Lay on Hands: used 0/5 Stunning Fist: used 0/4 Smite Evil: used 0/1
~~~
Drack (Chris J) - hp 73/73 - AC 21 Thursday April 18th, 2024 10:01:55 AM
(everyone please keep hp updated i header so we know if healing is needed.)
"Loryn, what's the call? search this level before moving on or just continue?"
"Spellcasters? any need to camp here and recover spells? this was likely just round one. Mostly you Gnubert. You burned a lot of healing. Did we never buy a healing wand or is someone hanging onto it?"
Spell Effects: Bless: +1 attacks and save vs. fear Haste: +1 to hit, ac, and reflex saves. extra attack on full attack, double move
Lay hands: 8/10
Spells: 1st Level: Divine Favor, Bless-c, protection from evil 2nd Level: Shield other
AC 13 HP 39/45 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K Thursday April 18th, 2024 10:43:18 AM
Loryn concurs with Hank, this could be a good future location with some adds, like not having to go down the well for instance. His rooms held little of interest and his ears perk up to the call of stairs. "Good pointers Mortimer, but I remembered it more like Ho, ha ha, dodge parry spin thrust."
Loryn wasn't sure on the bottleneck tactic, but he was not a tactician. Loryn looks at his ruined Tunic and sighs, well at least he didn't need to put up with the stains Prestidigitation 'Better.'
"We only just got here, we should keep moving
Loryn heads to the stairs and waits, Manolo should be going first to look for ancient booby traps.
Active Spell: Light; Levitate 7/7 minutes; Bless by Drack Empower rod 2/3 Acid Ray 8/8 30' range 1d6+3 Innate Used: 1st lvl: 5/7 2nd lvl: 4/6 3rd lvl: 4/4
Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11 ( 15 Mage Armor)(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 14/36 Thursday April 18th, 2024 11:41:10 AM
"I'm good on spells, plus have my wand. I'll leave it up to the other casters if we need to stop. " Ash adds. "I just hope our future enemies are more susceptible to my magic. "
Gnubert Glitterdust (Wade) AC: 20 T: 14 F: 18 R: 9 F: 14 W: 11 HPS: 51/51 CMD: 6 Thursday April 18th, 2024 2:09:42 PM "I am good to continue. I have a bit more in me yet. Hank you maybe right. Just thinking about the future. I am a firm believer in clearing a level at a time. Never leave an enemy at your back..."
Manolo (Michael A) -- AC 21/17/16 -- CMD 20 -- HP 43/43 Thursday April 18th, 2024 9:07:40 PM
"I think we should continue", Manolo says
Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.): ac:25/21/21. temp/hp:63/50. icy disposition, false life, darkvision, lucky, bless, haste, shield Friday April 19th, 2024 12:10:50 AM
Mortimer gives Loryn a "Heh!" and a nod. He's always liked his daffy sense of humor. As he looks around the northern training room, among the weapons against the walls, he looks for hammers, maces, morningstars, flails and clubs. He even casts Detect Magic in case any of them light up with an aura.
(Mortimer casts Detect Magic. Range: 60'. Duration: Concentration, up to 7 minutes.
To answer Drack, he replies, "I'm good with spells, mate. More swingin' than finger wigglin', I did." He adds, "Manolo, let's see if we can find ya a right proper bludgeoner. You'll need it if there's more clay beaters down 'ere."
Things with Crypts
DM Mitch and Hugh Terra-Cotta Combat d4=4 ; d10=8 ; d10=4 ; d10=9 ; d10=5 ; d10=7 ; d10=4 ; d10=5 ; d10=7 ; d8=4 ; d8=1 ; d8=4 ; d8=3 ; d8=6 ; d8=8 ; d8=8 ; d8=8 ; Friday April 19th, 2024 7:19:53 AM Hank says he normally doesn’t rush into combat when they can create a bottleneck however he thought the archers could turn things into a murder alley potentially. He apologizes to Gnubert for all the healing the cleric had to do then perks up at the mention of the stairs and suggests they continue. Torry continues to point out the big steps that go down and that being the way they need to go. She was partially impatient due to her light failing to penetrate the darkness. Drack asks Loryn if they should search further on this level before continuing and polls the spell casters whether they should camp here to recover spells Loryn tells Mortimer he has some good points but then gives his own memory’s version. He wasn’t sure of the bottleneck tactic but he is not a tactician. He reasons they should keep moving as they only just got there. Ash says he’s good on spells and he has the wand so he’ll defer to other casters on stopping. He just hopes future enemies are more susceptible to his magic. Gnubert says he is good to continue and that he has more in him. He tells Hank he may be right but he wants to improve things in the future and that he is a firm believer in not leaving an enemy at your back. Manolo thinks they should continue Mortimer appreciates Loryn’s humor and casts detect magic. He’s good with spells and suggests they find Manolo a bludgeon.
The party go down, deeper into the earth. At the bottom of the stairs there’s a change in the style of stone work. Plain flag stone changes to a smooth white stone, the spaces opens up some, and shelves start to line the walls. Stacked one above the other, they’re just long and deep enough for a person to lay in with a bit of space. Most are empty, but the light illuminates several with ancient corpses laid respectfully to rest. The stone is chipped and damaged, moreso then upstairs,
Four exits go off into the darkness (left, forward left, forward right, right). Toryn’s detect evil pings moderately as she looks around, but before she can try to narrow things down one of the corpses screams from inside of it’s alcove. Unnaturally loud it echo’s down the halls of this crypt and everyone feels strange.
Everyone roll vs DC 16 will. On failure, you disappear with a pop! highlight the text beside your name to learn where you find yourself
Torry: Highlight to display spoiler: { You find yourself 25 feet down the right corridor, still in sight of your friends who made the save.}
Drack: Highlight to display spoiler: { You find yourself in a bend in the crypt. You can head forward around the u shaped bend or go left and around the other way. If Ash also failed you hear and see them around the corner to the right}
Loryn: Highlight to display spoiler: { You find yourself back upstairs.}
Ash: Highlight to display spoiler: { You find yourself in a bend in the crypt. You can head behind you around a u shaped bend or go right and around the other way. If Drack also failed he’s behind you in the u bend.}
Hank: Highlight to display spoiler: { You find yourself in a 25 foot hall. Behind you it goes around to the right, or you can advance the 25 feet and go right around a bend there.}
Gnubert: Highlight to display spoiler: { You find yourself in u shaped bend. You can head to your right down a somewhat long hall or take a twisting, turning path behind you.}
Mortimer: Highlight to display spoiler: { You find yourself at the end of a 30 foot hall. To the left it turns around a bend and you can see two exits that way, straight and left. To the right it heads 25 feet before turning off.}
Manolo: Highlight to display spoiler: { You find yourself in the corner of an L shaped hallway. You can head straight or turn right and go around several curves you can see from here.}
Hank (Tanner) -- AC 24/12/22 -- CMD 24 -- HP 70 d20+5=24 ; Friday April 19th, 2024 7:25:16 AM
(Will save 24)
Hank shakes off the effect and looks around to see how his comrades are affected.
(Can I tell which corpse made the noise?)
Torrynashkabbeth (Nick) HP:40/40 AC:25 F11: R12 W:15 d20+15=30 ; Friday April 19th, 2024 7:45:22 AM
~~
Torryn blinked and quickly shook off the strange effect almost as swiftly. She turned to see exactly which corpse was in dire need of a good smiting! Surely her Detect Evil power could help narrow that search. She felt sure that Drack could do it better and would have no issue in smiting it.
~~~
OOC: Obviously unsure what if anything has happened to others, so will that that until later. Will save: 30.
~~~
Spells etc: 5/day: 2 used. Mage Armour. In effect.
Fey Spark: used0/6 1st lvl: used 2/5 Lay on Hands: used 0/5 Stunning Fist: used 0/4 Smite Evil: used 0/1
~~~
AC 13 HP 39/45 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K d20+6=23 ; 4d4+4=14 ; Friday April 19th, 2024 9:23:27 AM Will 23"That can't be good." Loryn looks about with the others, knowing that Drack and Torrynashkabbeth can both Detect Evil.
"Anyone know Circle of Protection?"
Loryn readies to cast a spell if something gets out of one of the alcoves Empowered Magic Missile Dmg 21
Active Spell: Light; Levitate 7/7 minutes; Bless by Drack Empower rod 2/3 Acid Ray 8/8 30' range 1d6+3 Innate Used: 1st lvl: 5/7 2nd lvl: 4/6 3rd lvl: 4/4
Gnubert Glitterdust (Wade) AC: 20 T: 14 F: 18 R: 9 F: 14 W: 11 HPS: 51/51 CMD: 6 d20+11=30 ; Friday April 19th, 2024 10:29:40 AM
Gnubert shakes his head a bit as he makes his save (Will save 30). "What was that?" he stammers a bit. Gnubert looks over at Loryn, "I got it" as he casts Magic Circle versus Evil on himself. "Stay close!"
Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.): ac:25/21/21. temp/hp:63/50. icy disposition, false life, darkvision, lucky, shield, detect undead d20+10=16 ; Friday April 19th, 2024 11:21:52 AM
(ooc: Before they go down into the crypt, Mortimer will put the swords and compound bows, dropped by the clay golems, into his handy haversack ... if no one else took them.)
(Will Save: 16, just enough!)
Mortimer winces at the high pitched shrieks of the corpse. This wasn't the normal cries of the dead he was used to hearing ... there was something more to this one. This seemed to assaulted his mind, but he was able to shake it off. He notices the others react to it as well. "Bloody hells! You all 'eard that too?! "
From his side, he pulls out a wand made from a long, slender bone with a grip made from wrapped strips of a kind of hide. Mortimer gives it a wave and mutters a few words of power.
(Mortimer casts Detect Undead from a wand.)
Manolo (Michael A) -- AC 21/17/16 -- CMD 20 -- HP 43/43 d20=17 ; Friday April 19th, 2024 6:34:16 PM
Manolo screams back, as he puts his hands on his ears. "What in the name of Gragul is that Evil Thing !?", he asks firmly everyone else.
Will save 23
Drack (Chris J) - hp 73/73 - AC 21 Friday April 19th, 2024 6:36:31 PM
Will post tomorrow
Drack (Chris J) - hp 73/73 - AC 21 d20+10=22 ; Saturday April 20th, 2024 10:48:01 AM
(will save 22)
Drack shakes off the weird feeling, and looks around around to make sure that everyone is good before quickly beheading the corpse that screamed.(if you need an attack roll DM, LMK)
He then detects evil with his Paladin ability to see what else must be destroyed.
"This is a foul place my friends. I am glad we are here, there will be much that needs destroying."
Spell Effects: Bless: +1 attacks and save vs. fear Haste: +1 to hit, ac, and reflex saves. extra attack on full attack, double move
Lay hands: 8/10
Spells: 1st Level: Divine Favor, Bless-c, protection from evil 2nd Level: Shield other
Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11 ( 15 Mage Armor)(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 14/36 d20+9=15 ; d20+9=17 ; d20+15=20 ; Monday April 22nd, 2024 5:33:40 AM
Ash doesn't disapear(use hero point for reroll), but he looks around blankly at the odd feeling. He tries to understand if it was some sort of spell attack (knowledge arcane 20)
DM Mitch and Hugh Terra-Cotta Combat d8=1 ; Monday April 22nd, 2024 8:15:20 AM Hank shakes off the effect and looks around to see if anything happened to his comrades. Torry also resists the effect and attempts to use her detect evil ability to figure out which of the corpses is in need of a good smiting though she thinks Drack might do it faster Loryn throws off the effect as well and asks if anyone knows Circle of Protection and prepares to cast an empowered magic missile is something emerges from one of the alcoves.
Gnubert shakes his head as he saves against the effect and asks what it was. He then Tell’s Loryn he’s got it and casts Magic Circle versus Evil on himself and calls for the others to stay close. Mortimer throws off the effect of the shrieking corpse and asks the others if they all heard that too. He then pulls out his wand made from bone and casts detect undead. Manolo is unaffected as well and asks the others what in the Drack has no problem resisting the effect either and looks around to make sure everyone is good before attacking the corpse that made the noise. (OOC: please roll an attack) He then activates detect evil and tells the others this is a foul place indeed and he is glad they are there. Ash tries to identify what type of magic the scream was.
There is a very anti-climatic lack of poofing. The party looks around and quickly spot the offending corpse and it is put down as it tries to crawl out of its cubby. It’s a humanoid corpse, clearly animated into some strange type of undead, and it’s covered in battle damage. Far more than the party dealt to it - it must be a remnant of whatever ancient battle destroyed this place.
Further examination of the area indicate more signs of battle, though hard to see. Nothing remains of any combatants but little chicks and marks all over the stone indicate something happened here.
Since everyone passed no one is able to determine what the strange scream was. It was certainly magic, but nothing Ash or the others have seen and likely some unique power of this type of undead.
Now there’s nothing left to do but pick a direction - left, right, forward left, or forward right? There’s only enough space to walk single file in combat, do the party split up or form a long, thin line?
AC 13 HP 39/45 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K Monday April 22nd, 2024 10:02:26 AM
Loryn suggests after the creature is destroyed that the group have a look down each one and he has an idea on how to do it. With several sources of light operating in their immediate vicinity, Loryn picks up a few bits of busted wall. he casts Light on one piece and hurls it down the left passage. Which provides light to much of the party 80' around where the rock lands.
Giving those with low-light vision some time to look, Loryn repeats the process down the next 3 passages. Perception Take 10; 21 at least for the first 80' of each passage
"Let's see what we can see eh?"
Active Spell: Light; Levitate 7/7 minutes; Bless by Drack Empower rod 2/3 Acid Ray 8/8 30' range 1d6+3 Innate Used: 1st lvl: 5/7 2nd lvl: 4/6 3rd lvl: 4/4
Hank (Tanner) -- AC 24/12/22 -- CMD 24 -- HP 70 Monday April 22nd, 2024 10:14:28 AM
Hank waits to see what they can see. "I would usually say to never split the party, but with this many people we could have two groups and still be safe. Probably."
Drack (Chris J) - hp 73/73 - AC 21 d20+13=16 ; d10+13=22 ; Monday April 22nd, 2024 10:19:50 AM
(Attack on corpse, power attack 2, hit ac 16, damage 22)
Drack waits to see what Loryn's light provides the party for information.
"I'm generally against splitting up Loryn, but if nothing useful comes of the lights, I think we have enough firepower to do it. If anything is found, we fall back and follow after the others. Just a thought. Your call."
Spell Effects: Bless: +1 attacks and save vs. fear Haste: +1 to hit, ac, and reflex saves. extra attack on full attack, double move
Lay hands: 8/10
Spells: 1st Level: Divine Favor, Bless-c, protection from evil 2nd Level: Shield other
Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.): ac:25/21/21. temp/hp:63/50. icy disposition, false life, darkvision, lucky, shield, detect undead d20+6=11 ; Monday April 22nd, 2024 11:42:38 AM
Mortimer shares his method at deciding which way to go with the group.
"Lefty Looty, Righty Bitey! Aways worked for yours truly, it 'as."
He then checks the corpse for any valuables or curious trinkets ... this includes gold fillings in its teeth, if any.
(Perception: 11)
Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11 ( 15 Mage Armor)(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 14/36 Monday April 22nd, 2024 11:56:29 AM
"Want to pause for a second, and I can send Oslo down to see what is around the corner? Or we can just go in blazing... either way works, but I feel silence and stealth might lend it to a few of ours more. "
Torrynashkabbeth (Nick) HP:40/40 AC:25 F11: R12 W:15 d20+11=27 ; Monday April 22nd, 2024 11:57:41 AM
~~
”What a good idea.” Torryn congratulated Loryn. She peered along each corridor in turn to see which held the most interest. ”If Morty wants the booty, I don’t mind taking on the bitey.” She offered. She had no issue with splitting up orleading the way. Her fey armour was still working and she could call up another fey shield if it came to taking on a ‘bitey’.
~~~
Perception: 27
~~~
Spells etc: 5/day: 2 used. Mage Armour. In effect.
Fey Spark: used0/6 1st lvl: used 2/5 Lay on Hands: used 0/5 Stunning Fist: used 0/4 Smite Evil: used 0/1
~~~
Manolo (Michael A) -- AC 21/17/16 -- CMD 20 -- HP 43/43 d10=5 ; Monday April 22nd, 2024 6:54:16 PM
Manolo sighs, "Anyone sees or smells anything unusual?", he asks as he contemplates about which direction to go. Perception 16 (take 10)
Gnubert Glitterdust (Wade) AC: 20 T: 14 F: 18 R: 9 F: 14 W: 11 HPS: 51/51 CMD: 6 d20+16=31 ; Monday April 22nd, 2024 7:35:02 PM
Gnubert takes a look around for anything of interest (Perception DC 31). Gnubert shrugs, "Pick and go. Makes no matter to me."
DM Mitch and Hugh Terra-Cotta Combat Tuesday April 23rd, 2024 8:08:13 AM Loryn suggests after the creature is destroyed the group have a look down each direction available. He picks up a bit of busted wall and casts Light on a piece and throws it 80 feet down. He does this for each direction giving those with Low Light vision time to look. Hank waits to see what can be seen using Loryn’s trick and says he usually says never split the party but in this scenario they could have 2 groups and probably be safe. Drack waits to see what Loryn’s light provides and is against splitting up but if nothing useful comes from Loryn’s idea they could split up and spread out and if one group makes contact the other group could fall back and reinforce. Mortimer shares his idea of which way to go with the rest of the group suggesting lefty looty and righty bitey before checking the corpse. Ash suggests sending Oslo to scout and see what is around the corner or they can just go in blazing but he thinks stealth might be the better option Torry tells Lorryn he had a good idea and then peers with him down each corridor. She states if Morty wants the looty she wouldn’t mind the bitey having no issue splitting up or leading the way. Manolo asks if anyone has seen or smelled anything unusual as he contemplates which direction to go. Gnubert shrugs and says pick and go as it makes no difference to him
Loryn’s thrown rocks bounce off walls a good way down the left and right paths, much closer the other ways. The light reveals long, twisty halls of identical looking stone and cubbies. If you somehow lost track of where you were it might be very difficult to reorient yourself down here.
Neither the animate corpse nor the ones that are just regular dead people have anything of value on them. They wear simple funerary clothing and several are so old to be nothing but bones, though many others are remarkably well preserved. Perhaps some sort of magic is involved.
DM Mitch and Hugh Terra-Cotta Combat Tuesday April 23rd, 2024 8:08:29 AM
There is now a map in the header showing what the party as seen so far.
DM Mitch and Hugh Crypt maze Tuesday April 23rd, 2024 9:32:47 AM
my header update got eaten by an Internet dragon. Hopefully the above works.
Drack (Chris J) - hp 73/73 - AC 21 Tuesday April 23rd, 2024 11:14:26 AM
(Hey guys, sorry. Messaged Jerry. I need to go on walkabout for a bit. having cancer surgery in a week and a half. I have a ton going on right now. I would not be able to post consistently. Good luck and i hope to be back with you in a few weeks.)
Torrynashkabbeth (Nick) HP:40/40 AC:25 F11: R12 W:15 d20+11=12 ; Tuesday April 23rd, 2024 11:31:30 AM
~~
Intrigued, Torryn took herself off to the right. She moved as far as the corner and peered around to see what lay ahead. Only once she’d look did she remember to use her Fay and Dancer skills. She invoked her Fey sight, to see if there was anything magical about the area and then sought out the presence of Evil with her Sacred Dancer ability.
~~~
Perception: 12. That was a Nat 1; so she likely got distractted.
~~~
Spells etc: 5/day: 2 used. Mage Armour. In effect.
Fey Spark: used0/6 1st lvl: used 2/5 Lay on Hands: used 0/5 Stunning Fist: used 0/4 Smite Evil: used 0/1
~~~
Hank (Tanner) -- AC 24/12/22 -- CMD 24 -- HP 70 d20+1=7 ; Tuesday April 23rd, 2024 12:27:38 PM
Hank goes down the opposite hallway from Torrynashkabeth, using the light of his magic weapon to illuminate the passage.
Perception 7 (impressive, right?)
AC 13 HP 39/45 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K Tuesday April 23rd, 2024 2:41:12 PM "And the answer is nothing, nothing remotely useful at all. "
Loryn nodded rapidly as Torrynashkabbeth and Hank split up and he waved Gnubert to follow Hank while he went after the sacred dancer. "Mortimer, Ash and Manolo. check out the immediate turns right here." Heading down the passage, Loryn picks up a piece of anything and puts a Light on it
Active Spell: Light; Levitate 7/7 minutes; Bless by Drack Empower rod 2/3 Acid Ray 8/8 30' range 1d6+3 Innate Used: 1st lvl: 5/7 2nd lvl: 4/6 3rd lvl: 4/4
Gnubert Glitterdust (Wade) AC: 20 T: 14 F: 18 R: 9 F: 14 W: 11 HPS: 51/51 CMD: 6 d20+16=28 ; Tuesday April 23rd, 2024 7:20:55 PM
Gnubert nods at Loryn as he follows Hank murming to himself as he begins, I said a direction, not three. This is how folks go missing... Gnubert keeps an eye for danger (Perception DC 28)
OOC: Chris, Best wishes, and good luck. I will keep you in my prayers. If there is anything we can do just reach out.
Manolo (Michael A) -- AC 21/17/16 -- CMD 20 -- HP 43/43 d20=10 ; Tuesday April 23rd, 2024 8:17:55 PM
"So which direction?", Manolo asks He looks around walking without conscious mind.
Move:AC6
Percpetion 21
Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11 ( 15 Mage Armor)(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 14/36 d20+9=23 ; Tuesday April 23rd, 2024 10:22:25 PM
"Rat?... yes?...no?" Ash asks. He peers down the hallway towards the cubbies. Perception 23
DM Mitch and Hugh Crypt maze d8=7 ; d8=6 ; d8=3 ; d10=8 ; d10=6 ; d10=7 ; Wednesday April 24th, 2024 7:11:03 AM
Things start to quiet down in the dungeon and then all of a sudden a glowing bright light appears close to the party. It burns away the darkness nearest you and your heart and soul feel warm. A monk steps from the light, his brow is wrinkled with concentration and his head is covered with close cropped black hair. In a Deep Voice he says, “I’m sorry to interfere in the business of the Argentium but I need Drack for an urgent mission. I’ll try to have him back by your next adventure” The monk holds out his hand to the paladin and Drack takes it and all of a sudden Drack and the Monk are enveloped in a column of glowing bright light. Again the darkness is burned away and again you are suffused with feelings of warmth in your heart and soul. Gradually the light ascends towards the ceiling and then vanishes when it does sound returns to the dungeon. Know Religion DC 10:Highlight to display spoiler: { Was that Domi?}
Torry moves off to the right and peers down then invokes her sacred dancer ability to determine if the presence of evil is there. Hank goes down the opposite hallway from Torry, using his magic weapon to illuminate the passage. Loryn nods rapidly as Torry and Hank split up and he waves Gnubert to follow Hank while he went after the sacred dancer. He asks Mortimer, Ash and Manolo to check out the immediate turns in the vicinity. Loryn casts spell on a pebble. Gnubert nods at Lorryn as he follows Hank mumbling that he said 1 direction not 3 as he keeps an eye out for danger. Manolo asks which direction and looks around Ash asks yes or no regarding the rat and then peers down the hallway towards the cubbies.
Torry and Loryn are able to quickly confirm the left path leads to a dead end. Fortunately there are no more screaming corpses this way either.
Hank and Gnubert explore the opposite path. It goes down a ways before turning around a bend back on itself.
Manalo wanders a bit down a third path that’s nothing but twists and turns. He finds himself meeting up with Hank and Gnubert - it seems these two paths connect. Any possible greetings are interrupted - the three note one of the dead stirring as soon as they round the bend and see each other and another scream echoes through the maze.
DC 16 will save. On failure you find yourself in a new spot in the maze.
Hank, on failure, suddenly finds himself in the same hallway as Torry and Loryn to the surprise of everyone. If the other two fail they find themselves in a place they don’t recognize.
Ash, presuming they go the 4th direction as requested by Loryn, explores a bit but is interrupted by distant screaming, indicating someone has found one of those crypt things.
AC 13 HP 39/45 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K d20+6=15 ; Wednesday April 24th, 2024 12:13:38 PM "Again a bit of nothing....Ahh that scream again, hey Tor....."
Loryn looks about as he is no longer where he just was. Oh bother
Loryn fails his Will save Perception take 10 = DC 21
Active Spell: Light; Levitate 7/7 minutes; Bless by Drack Empower rod 2/3 Acid Ray 8/8 30' range 1d6+3 Innate Used: 1st lvl: 5/7 2nd lvl: 4/6 3rd lvl: 4/4
DM Mitch and Hugh Crypt maze Wednesday April 24th, 2024 12:40:12 PM
Clarification: only Hank, Manalo, and Gnubert have to save. Everyone else can hear the scream echoing through the halls, but are out of range of the effect
Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.): ac:25/21/21. temp/hp:63/50. icy disposition, false life, darkvision, lucky, shield, detect undead d20+10=15 ; Wednesday April 24th, 2024 3:19:34 PM
(Will Save: 15. Wow, I couldn't roll a 6 or better; of course not!)
Mortimer can't keep track who he was or what passage he took. He had taken out a piece of chalk and started marking arrows to the exit on the walls. This doesn't help him though from the mind piercing scream. (Will Save: 15, fail)
Finding himself in a new spot, he looks around for any one of the chalky arrows he had scribed on the wall.
Gnubert Glitterdust (Wade) AC: 20 T: 14 F: 18 R: 9 F: 14 W: 11 HPS: 51/51 CMD: 6 d20+14=24 ; d20+11=21 ; Wednesday April 24th, 2024 7:45:41 PM
Gnubert's jaw drops as he recognizes Domi whisk Drack away (Knowledge DC 24). Gnubert bows slightly as he grasps his holy symbol.
Gnubert continues to trail along behind Hank, and then manages to stay in between the two. Gnubert's head snaps back as the undead screams, but the cleric is unfazed (Will DC 21). Gnubert draws his light mace, and prepares for combat as the scream echoes down the hallway.
Manolo (Michael A) -- AC 21/17/16 -- CMD 20 -- HP 43/43 d20+6=14 ; d20=15 ; Wednesday April 24th, 2024 8:14:58 PM
Manolo suddenly find himself instantly in a new place. Manolo looks around quickly for anything immediately strange or dangerous
Will save 14 (fail)
Perception 26
Hank (Tanner) -- AC 24/12/22 -- CMD 24 -- HP 70 d20=1 ; Wednesday April 24th, 2024 9:39:36 PM
(Will save 6)
Hank bamfs I to bring next to Torrynashkabeth and Loryn. His dart about as he gains his bearings. "By Gargul's beard! What just happened? Let's get back to the main branch."
Torrynashkabbeth (Nick) HP:40/40 AC:25 F11: R12 W:15 d20+15=25 ; Thursday April 25th, 2024 6:00:50 AM
~~
As before, the scream had no effect upon the Scared dancer. What did have an effect was the sudden appearance of Hank and the disappearance of Loryn! What sort of magic had those two unearthed that they could now swap places? OR! Was it an illusion? Was this STILL Loryn, disguised as Hank? Her head hurt just thinking about it.
”Um….Hank?” She asked tentatively. ”What did you do with Loryn?” Then a thought; maybe it wasn’t a real Hank. She called forth her abilities to ascertain the use of magic and whether the person before her was an evil doppleganger. Drack would be so proud of her ….she thought.
~~~
Will save: 25
~~~
Spells etc: 5/day: 2 used. Mage Armour. In effect.
Fey Spark: used0/6 1st lvl: used 2/5 Lay on Hands: used 0/5 Stunning Fist: used 0/4 Smite Evil: used 0/1
~~~
OOC: NB – Really busy week. I’m away all day Friday and Saturday. I’ll catch up on Sunday.
Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11 ( 15 Mage Armor)(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 14/36 Thursday April 25th, 2024 7:12:00 AM
Ash turns and runs back the way he came, looking for the source of the scream(but also knowing who it is).
DM Mitch and Hugh Crypt maze d100=29 ; d20+10=17 ; d20+10=30 ; d20+10=11 ; d8=2 ; Thursday April 25th, 2024 8:06:12 AM Loryn says again a bit of nothing and hears the scream again. He lucked out by being out of its range. Mortimer can’t keep track of who he is or which passageway he took in spite of his use of chalk markings he finds himself disoriented and searches out any markings near where he ended up. Gnubert drops his jaw as he recognizes Domi spiriting Drack away. He bows slightly grasping his Holy symbol. He continues to trail Hank but is unfazed by the scream though he draws his light mace. Manolo suddenly finds himself instantly in a new place and looks around for anything immediately strange or dangerous Hankbamfs and is brought next to Torry and Loryn. He darts about to gain his bearings and tries to determine what just happened Torryn wonders why Hank is suddenly there. She’s worried about doppelgangers and tries to look for magic/evil. Ash turns back to help the others.
Gnubert suddenly finds himself alone as his two friends vanish. Hopefully he was one of the PCs with a light source, else he can’t see the corpse as it climbs out of it’s cubby and rushes him, racking a hand with viciously sharp nails across his face (17 to hit, nat 20, nat 1 to confirm so no crit. 6 damage)
Manalo suddenly finds himself facing a wall. Again presuming he has a lightsource looking around confirms he’s in a new, unknown part of the maze. A twisting bend that he can go either way on.
Torry detects no evil from Hank, though he is carrying magic items if that was a detect magic use.
None of the rest of the party are affected other than the distant screams of the strange undead.
Hank (Tanner) -- AC 24/12/22 -- CMD 24 -- HP 70 Thursday April 25th, 2024 8:49:50 AM
The confusion of teleporting in the tight space along with the wails of the dead were disorienting, to say the least. "Yes, I'm me, Torrynashkabeth. I have changed my mind. We need to stick together as a group. Let's head back."
Torrynashkabbeth (Nick) HP:40/40 AC:25 F11: R12 W:15 d20+11=13 ; Thursday April 25th, 2024 9:38:58 AM
~~ Someone was in distress. Was that Gnubert’s voice she recognised? (Not a great Perception check.)
If Torryn can follow the scream, she will: a double move places her directly behind Gnubert. Of course, in a maze, sound can echo and make following such a noise difficult. Equally, if she DOES recognise it as Gnubert’s voice and saw which direction he too, she can easily get to his side (Base move 40)
NB: Torryn does not yet know that Drack is gone.
~~~
Perception: 13.
~~~
Spells etc: 5/day: 2 used. Mage Armour. In effect.
Fey Spark: used0/6 1st lvl: used 2/5 Lay on Hands: used 0/5 Stunning Fist: used 0/4 Smite Evil: used 0/1
~~~
AC 13 HP 39/45 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K Thursday April 25th, 2024 9:58:36 AM
Hank bamfs I to bring next to Torrynashkabeth and Loryn Hank! Loryn takes a breath and puts his hands on his knees, "Holy ghosts ! You just can't go around popping in on folks like that. Give a poor old gnome a heart attack."
Loryn, looking down their passage at a dead end agrees with Hank, though as he just appeared, the gnome is not certain that staying together is an actual option, but at least they should probably try. [b]"Lets get back to the original intersection and try to recall the others."[b]
Active Spell: Light; Levitate 2/7 minutes Empower rod 2/3 Acid Ray 8/8 30' range 1d6+3 Innate Used: 1st lvl: 5/7 2nd lvl: 4/6 3rd lvl: 4/4
Gnubert Glitterdust (Wade) AC: 20 T: 14 F: 18 R: 9 F: 14 W: 11 HPS: 45/51 CMD: 6 Thursday April 25th, 2024 7:08:15 PM
Gnubert sighs as the light fades away. Gnubert hisses at the damaged caused bythe undead, and takes a 5 foot step back so he can draw on his gnomish heritage and cast dancing lights. "A little help over here folks!" Gnubert yells out as he raises his buckler, and holds his mace steady.
Manolo (Michael A) -- AC 21/17/16 -- CMD 20 -- HP 43/43 d20=9 ; Thursday April 25th, 2024 8:14:15 PM
Manolo will try to light his ever burning torch while looking around quickly for any immediate threats. He keeps silent for the time being.
Perception 20
Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11 ( 15 Mage Armor)(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 14/36 d20+9=24 ; Friday April 26th, 2024 5:31:02 AM
"Gnubert?" Ash calls out. The mage turns and heads towards Gnuberts voice. (Perception 24).
DM Mitch and Hugh Crypt maze d20+10=20 ; d20+10=28 ; d8=4 ; d8=5 ; Friday April 26th, 2024 7:45:29 AM Hank is disoriented by the tight space teleportation and wails of the dead and suggests they need to stick together as a group and head back. Torry notes that someone possibly Gnubert is in distress and attempts to follow the scream with a double move action. Loryn sees Hank bamf next to him and chides the man about possibly giving him a heart attack. Loryn looks down the dead end and agrees with Hank though given the fact that Hank just appeared Loryn isn’t sure if that is an option but they should still try it. Gnubert sighs as the light fades away and hisses at the damage caused by the undead. He takes a 5 foot step back so he can cast dancing lights from his racial spell like ability. He calls out to his team mates for some help as he raises his buckler and holds his mace steady Manolo will try to light his ever burning torch while looking around for immediate threats. He keeps quiet for the time being. Ash calls out Gnubert’s name and heads towards him.
As Ash moves towards the noises a sudden light ahead alerts him to the fight ahead. Gnubert is facing down another one of those undead things and it slashes him twice for 8 and 9 damage. The rest of the party rushes in the general direction of the fight and can get there next round.
Meanwhile Manolo gets out a light to look around. He is very clearly not where he was, but it’s hard to say where he ended up. It’s the same type of white stone lined with cubbies and corpses and hard to say if he’s deeper in or just in a side corridor. He can’t hear anything of note.
AC 13 HP 39/45 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K Friday April 26th, 2024 9:59:55 AM "Gnubert! Hang on cousin, help is coming!" Loryn shouts towards the fighting as he moves his little legs as best as he can towards the fight.
Active Spell: Light; Levitate 2/7 minutes Empower rod 2/3 Acid Ray 8/8 30' range 1d6+3 Innate Used: 1st lvl: 5/7 2nd lvl: 4/6 3rd lvl: 4/4
Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11 ( 15 Mage Armor)(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 14/36 d3=1 ; d20+3=20 ; 2d4=5 ; Friday April 26th, 2024 7:10:48 PM
Ash reaches out and sends an acid arrow at the undead creature. Range touch attack 20, 5 dmg, plus acid damage next 2 rounds.
1st Charm person, Sleep, 2nd Acid Arrow x 2, Glitterdust, See invisibility 3rd Fireball x2 4th Sum Monster IV, Dimension door
Gnubert Glitterdust (Wade) AC: 20 T: 14 F: 18 R: 9 F: 14 W: 11 HPS: 28/51 CMD: 6 d20+5=13 ; Friday April 26th, 2024 7:23:58 PM "By the Gods that hurts!" Gnubert shakes his head and attacks with his mace (AC 13 assuming that is a miss) missing. Gnubert prays to Domi and waits for help
Manolo (Michael A) -- AC 21/17/16 -- CMD 20 -- HP 43/43 d20=17 ; Friday April 26th, 2024 7:46:10 PM
He continues in a random direction. 'No point of hiding in the complete dark', Manolo thinks in encouragement as he continues to move forward in a random direction.
Perception 28
Hank (Tanner) -- AC 24/12/22 -- CMD 24 -- HP 70 Friday April 26th, 2024 9:45:22 PM
Hank rushes toward the sound of the injured Gnubert.
Torrynashkabbeth (Nick) HP:40/40 AC:25 F11: R12 W:15 d20+8=27 ; d6+1=5 ; d20+8=14 ; d6=2 ; Sunday April 28th, 2024 6:07:05 AM
~~ Torryn stepped in and attacked (She could get to Gnubert’s side with a double move) She snapped out a side kick seeking to propel the creature away from Gnubert and then followed up with a palm strike – that fell short.
~~~
AC:27 hit for 5 damage. AC:14 hit for 3 damage. (I clicked the d6 rather than d6+1 at the bottom. It’s likely academic as AC:14 probably won’t hit)
~~~
Spells etc: 5/day: 2 used. Mage Armour. In effect.
Fey Spark: used0/6 1st lvl: used 2/5 Lay on Hands: used 0/5 Stunning Fist: used 0/4 Smite Evil: used 0/1
~~~
Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.): ac:25/21/21. temp/hp:63/50. icy disposition, false life, darkvision, lucky, shield, detect undead d20+12=25 ; d6+5=7 ; d6=6 ; Monday April 29th, 2024 12:09:46 AM
(ooc: Mortimer isn't shown on the map. I just placed Mortimer him. No idea where I am in relation to the map or everyone else. I've also lost track about what is happening. I'm just going roll with it.)
The light, agile footsteps can be heard around the corner. Mortimer then rounds the corner and emerges from the darkness. He walks with a slow motion swagger like that of a dream for some, a nightmare for others. He sees the undead and his trademark Billy Idol sneer forms across his lips. In a blur of shadow and frosty fury, he attacks the pathetic creature.
DM Mitch and Hugh Crypt maze d100=9 ; d8=6 ; d10=6 ; d20=20 ; d20=15 ; Monday April 29th, 2024 8:37:42 AM Loryn calls out for Gnubert to hang on and moves towards the fighting. Ash reaches out and sends an acid arrow at the undead creature hitting it for acid damage Gnubert shakes his head and attacks with his mace missing while praying to Domi for help Manolo continues in a random direction Hank rushes toward the sound of injured Gnubert Torry stepped in and attacked as she could get to his side with a double move and then kicked the creature Mortimer is a little uncertain as to what’s going on but finds his way to the rest of the group (I don’t think you ever posted which path Mortimer took so he never got added to the map)
Once again the undead goes down quickly once visible and attacked. Most of the party is now grouped up together, as best as they can be in the long narrow hallway at least.
Meanwhile Manolo picks a direction and random and starts walking. He quickly finds himself at a 4 way intersection and confronting another of the strange corpse monsters. This one does not scream, perhaps because he is alone, instead crawling out of it's cubby and rising to attack.
Hank (Tanner) -- AC 24/12/22 -- CMD 24 -- HP 70 Monday April 29th, 2024 9:17:17 AM
Hank is glad to see Gnubert is safe, and advances down the hallway to the next turn to see what he can see.
Torrynashkabbeth (Nick) HP:40/40 AC:25 F11: R12 W:15 d20+11=16 ; Monday April 29th, 2024 10:16:30 AM
~~ Torryn followed Hank. It wasn’t hard to keep up and she itched to quicken the pace. What was the point in getting lost slowly when you could do it quickly?
She listened for any other nasty creatures whilst doing the bets she could to pierce the darkness
~~~
Detect Evil in effect. Perception: 16
Note: To get to Hank’s current position is not much more than a half move for Torryn. She will move on beyond that corner until something stops her.
~~~
Spells etc: 5/day: 2 used. Mage Armour. In effect.
Fey Spark: used0/6 1st lvl: used 2/5 Lay on Hands: used 0/5 Stunning Fist: used 0/4 Smite Evil: used 0/1
~~~
AC 13 HP 39/45 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K Monday April 29th, 2024 10:50:27 AM "At least they seem eager to be back at rest." Loryn quips about the undead. and he works to keep pace with the faster big folk, giving his shoulder the occassional look over to see if maybe somebody is following them.
Active Spell: Light; Empower rod 2/3 Acid Ray 8/8 30' range 1d6+3 Innate Used: 1st lvl: 5/7 2nd lvl: 4/6 3rd lvl: 4/4
Manolo (Michael A) -- AC 21/17/16 -- CMD 20 -- HP 43/43 d20+10=20 ; d6+2=7 ; Monday April 29th, 2024 5:47:51 PM
Manolo tries to attack the undead with his short sword.
Attack 20 Damage 7
Gnubert Glitterdust (Wade) AC: 20 T: 14 F: 18 R: 9 F: 14 W: 11 HPS: 47/51 CMD: 6 2d8+5=13 ; Monday April 29th, 2024 7:20:12 PM
Gnubert sighs in relief as his friends arrive and save his gnome hide, "Thanks guys! I needed your help!" The cleric takes a moment to heal himself a bit (Cure Moderate Wounds 19 points of healing). "How about we try and stay together this time. Splitting up is workinG against us."
Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11 ( 15 Mage Armor)(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 14/36 Monday April 29th, 2024 9:34:42 PM
"Manolo" Ash asks out loud. " The young man has to be here somewhere." he added.
Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.): ac:25/21/21. temp/hp:63/50. icy disposition, false life, darkvision, lucky, shield, detect undead Tuesday April 30th, 2024 12:14:14 AM
Mortimer, as well, asks out loud, “ oy, Manolo! Come out, come out wherever you are!” With his chalk, he marks the direction of the exit on the wall. “Yes, whose brilliant idea was it to split up in a catacombs?”
He makes sure everyone stays together this time. No one need wander off.
Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.): ac:20/15/16. temp/hp:63/50. icy disposition, false life, darkvision, lucky Tuesday April 30th, 2024 8:30:33 AM
(ooc: updated info in the post name bar.)
DM Mitch and Hugh Crypt maze d20+10=27 ; d20+10=19 ; d8=2 ; Tuesday April 30th, 2024 9:23:39 AM Hank is glad to see Gnubert is safe and advances down the hallway to the next turn to see what he can see. Torry followed Hank. She itched to quicken the pace figuring it was better to get lost quickly than slowly. SHe also listened for other creatures while doing the best she could to pierce the darkness Loryn points out that the undead seem eager to be at rest while he tries to keep pace with the faster big folk as he checks to see they weren’t followed. Manolo tries and succeeds at attacking the undead with the short sword Gnubert sighs in relief as his friends arrive and save his gnome hide. He casts cure moderate wounds on himself and suggests they stick together from now on. Ash calls out for Manolo Mortimer calls out as well and marks the area they’re in.
The party’s calls echo through the halls but wherever he is Manolo can’t hear them or respond. Exploring as one big group quickly becomes awkward - the halls are to narrow for anything but single file, at least not if people don’t want to be accidentally stabbing each other when one of those undead pop up. The many twists and turns often mean only 2 or 3 people in the front could engage if one was around a corner, and the many dead ends mean awkward re-arranging and turning around frequently.
At least the party is able to quickly confirm this section of the maze is nothing but dead ends. It looks like the 4th path was the only actual one that leads deeper.
Manolo’s strike is solid, and it looks like another should down the greatly weakened Thing, but it recovers enough claw at him and get one past his defenses for 6 damage.
Crypt thing near Manolo: 7 damage
Torrynashkabbeth (Nick) HP:40/40 AC:25 F11: R12 W:15 d20+11=18 ; Tuesday April 30th, 2024 11:05:03 AM
~~ There was nothing to do but retrace their steps and try again. Torryn’s desire for speed was constrained by her need for light. She couldn’t operate in complete darkness like the gnomes…..and maybe Morty. He was a strange one. It wouldn’t surprise if he could actually see in the dark. She refocused her thoughts. Do what Drack would do! Focus on finding Evil and stay alert. ~~~
Detect Evil in effect. Perception: 18
~~~
Spells etc: 5/day: 2 used. Mage Armour. In effect.
Fey Spark: used0/6 1st lvl: used 2/5 Lay on Hands: used 0/5 Stunning Fist: used 0/4 Smite Evil: used 0/1
~~~
Manolo (Michael A) -- AC 21/17/16 -- CMD 20 -- HP 37/43 d20+10=21 ; d6+2=6 ; Tuesday April 30th, 2024 8:02:33 PM
Manolo smiles at the scratch, it wasn't so powerful. He keeps attacking the creature relentlessly.
Attack 21 Damage 6
Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11 ( 15 Mage Armor)(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 14/36 d20+10=28 ; Tuesday April 30th, 2024 9:41:33 PM
"Okay, let's look for him, but also let's not get lost ourselves.
Ash looks for any clues. (Perception 28)
Gnubert Glitterdust (Wade) AC: 20 T: 14 F: 18 R: 9 F: 14 W: 11 HPS: 47/51 CMD: 6 d20+16=32 ; Tuesday April 30th, 2024 9:55:00 PM
Gnubert follows the others, casting light when his dancing lights wink out. The gnome strains against darkness, and silence trying to find a direction to head in to find Manolo (Perception DC 32)
Hank (Tanner) -- AC 24/12/22 -- CMD 24 -- HP 70 Tuesday April 30th, 2024 10:43:47 PM
Hank moves as quickly as he can through the narrow confines of the maze.
DM Mitch and Hugh Crypt maze d8=2 ; d8=7 ; d10=3 ; d10=1 ; Wednesday May 1st, 2024 6:24:05 AM Torry decides to retrace the parties’ steps and try again using perception and detect evil to find foes. Manolo smiles at the scratch then continues his relentless assault Ash resolves to look for Manolo while not getting lost themselves, Gnubert follows the others and casts light when the dancing lights wink out. He strains against the silence trying to find a direction to head to find Manolo Hank moves as quickly as he can through the narrow maze
The party shuffles about and resumes their usual marching order. With only one direction they haven’t gone now they’re able to move quickly towards it. After several twists and turns another Thing awaits them around a blind corner. DC 15 will save for Hank and Torry or be randomly teleported… behind Ash for Hank or 5 feet forward for Torry.
Manalo presses the attack and manages to defeat the undead facing him. Now he has a choice of 4 directions to take. A sudden scream from somewhere distant echoes past him. Perception 20 Highlight to display spoiler: {it came from the left path}
Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.): ac:20/15/16. temp/hp:63/50. icy disposition, false life, darkvision, lucky d20+6=12 ; Wednesday May 1st, 2024 8:55:55 AM
(ooc: sorry for missing my post last night. I had an unplanned loss of consciousness due to a need for sleep.)
Mortimer moves along with the rest of the group, slowly making their way back to the fork in the corridor. Then the familiar screams can be heard ahead. He remarks, "Oh bloody 'ell, not again!"
(Perception: 12)
Torrynashkabbeth (Nick) HP:40/40 AC:25 F11: R12 W:15 d20+15=33 ; d20+10=29 ; d20+9=28 ; d6+1=6 ; Wednesday May 1st, 2024 9:55:07 AM
~~ As previously, Torryn was completely unaffected by the scream and the dark magic contained within it. Being behind Hank (currently) she decided to get past him and behind the nasty abomination; so calling upon her dancer training, she pirouetted, twisted and rolled!
(OOC: Will provoke an AoO, but she evades that with an Acrobatics roll of 29.)
Springing up behind the creature, she slammed a palm into its back.
(Hits AC:28 for 6 damage. Torryn can now give Hank Flanking – if he’s still there.) ~~~
Spells etc: 5/day: 2 used. Mage Armour. In effect.
Fey Spark: used0/6 1st lvl: used 2/5 Lay on Hands: used 0/5 Stunning Fist: used 0/4 Smite Evil: used 0/1
~~~
AC 13 HP 39/45 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K Wednesday May 1st, 2024 11:01:55 AM
Loryn does his best to keep up with the others. He knew he would be relying on Torrynashkabbeth and Hank to lead and clear the way to Manolo. In the tighter confines of the crypt tunnels, the gnome would simply help shed additional light with his cantrip, saving more powerful magics for later.
Active Spell: Light; Empower rod 2/3 Acid Ray 8/8 30' range 1d6+3 Innate Used: 1st lvl: 5/7 2nd lvl: 4/6 3rd lvl: 4/4
Hank (Tanner) -- AC 24/12/22 -- CMD 24 -- HP 70 d20+6=14 ; Wednesday May 1st, 2024 4:30:00 PM
(Will save 14)
Hank barely fails resisting the effect, and bamfs behind Ash. "What the-- Now I'm the rear guard again!"
With little choice but to stay put with all of the other party members in his path.
Manolo (Michael A) -- AC 21/17/16 -- CMD 20 -- HP 37/43 d20+11=24 ; d3=3 ; Wednesday May 1st, 2024 9:00:27 PM
Manolo thinks about where to go. He will go towards a random direction. Perception 24 D3=3
Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11 ( 15 Mage Armor)(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 14/36 d20+10=20 ; Wednesday May 1st, 2024 9:57:07 PM
Ash turns to look at Hank, who just popped up behind him. " Thats peculiar". He said. He sees the fight is pretty in hand so he looks around for more bad undead. Perception 20
DM Mitch and Hugh Crypt maze d20+10=25 ; d20+10=24 ; d8=4 ; Thursday May 2nd, 2024 7:56:09 AM Mortimer moves along with the rest of the group slowly making his way back to the forth in the corridor. He swears as the familiar screams can be heard ahead. Torry continues to be completely unaffected by the scream and the dark magic contained within it. She moves past Hank and pirouetted and hit the thing with a palm strike to its back. Loryn does his best to keep up with the others. He relies upon Hand and Torry to clear the way to Manolo. He focuses on using his cantrip to help light the place saving more powerful spells for later. Hank fails at resisting the effect and bamfs behind Ash playing rear guard again. Manolo thinks about where to go and ends up choosing a random direction. Ash turns to look at Hank who just popped up behind him and tells Hank that seeing him is peculiar before looking around for more undead.
Manolo's random path takes him right and he quickly finds that it dead ends around a corner.
The Thing swipes at Torry as she moves past and presses the attack after she strikes it. It manages to land 1 blow for 8 damage.
Crypt Thing near Torry - 6 damage
DM Mitch and Hugh Crypt maze Thursday May 2nd, 2024 7:59:45 AM
Upon consideration I'm just going to say the party kills the crypt thing with their next attack and can move on this post.
Torrynashkabbeth (Nick) HP:32/40 AC:25 F11: R12 W:15 Thursday May 2nd, 2024 8:20:04 AM
It hit her? How rude! She'd have to practice harder, but at least her acrobatics held up well. She took solace from that. Of course, she could easily heal that minor injury - painful as it was, but didn't wish to make Gnubert feel redundant. If he wished to heal her, so be it. If not she'd invoke her Sacred Dancer ability to do so. Immediately though, it was a matter of watching as the others swiftly dispatched the horrid creature and then moving on.
Hank (Tanner) -- AC 24/12/22 -- CMD 24 -- HP 70 Thursday May 2nd, 2024 8:59:05 AM
Hank resumes his position at the front of the line. "Shenanigans, I say. Let's find the end of this maze." He advances forward.
AC 13 HP 39/45 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K Thursday May 2nd, 2024 9:46:36 AM
Loryn chuckles and gives Torrynashkabbeth a pat on the lower back, "Dodge, parry spin my girl, dodge, parry, spin."
With another small chuckle Loryn calls out loudly "MANO!" then then more quietly as if being answered from a far, he says through the corner of his mouth "Olo..." Again Loudly, "MANO!
Active Spell: Light; Empower rod 2/3 Acid Ray 8/8 30' range 1d6+3 Innate Used: 1st lvl: 5/7 2nd lvl: 4/6 3rd lvl: 4/4
Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.): ac:20/15/16. temp/hp:63/50. icy disposition, false life, darkvision, lucky d20+6=7 ; Thursday May 2nd, 2024 12:25:27 PM "I prefer ta employ the five D's of artful dodgery, yeah: dodge, duck, dip, dive and dodge. Always works for me."
Alas, Mortimer forgets to duck under a cobweb and takes it directly in the face, "Eck!"
(Perception: 7, natural 1.)
Manolo (Michael A) -- AC 21/17/16 -- CMD 20 -- HP 37/43 d20+11=29 ; Thursday May 2nd, 2024 7:37:08 PM
Manolo goes back towards another direction . Perception 29
Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11 ( 15 Mage Armor)(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 14/36 d20+10=17 ; Thursday May 2nd, 2024 10:59:53 PM
"Manolo" Ash yells again. "Yell out if you can."
The mage continues looking for the young man.Perception 17
Gnubert Glitterdust (Wade) AC: 20 T: 14 F: 18 R: 9 F: 14 W: 11 HPS: 47/51 CMD: 6 d20+16=36 ; Thursday May 2nd, 2024 11:02:41 PM
OOC: I'm sorry I missed my post yesterday. Long day at work.
Gnubert continues listening for Manolo and shedding light (Perception DC 36)
DM Mitch and Hugh Crypt maze Friday May 3rd, 2024 9:08:55 AM Torry thinks it is rude that it hit her and that she’d have to practice harder but at least her acrobatic skills held up. The injury was minor and either her or Gnubert could heal it but first they had to dispatch the creature to move on. Hank returns to the front and suggests they find the maze’s end Loryn chuckles and reminds Torry to dodge, parry and skin. He then calls out for Manolo Mortimer says he prefers the 5 Ds of duck, dodge,dip,dive and dodge before taking a cobweb to the face. Manolo goes in another direction Ash yells for Manolo and tells him to yell out if he can Gnubert continues listening for Manolo and shedding light
The party advances, calling for Manolo. As they round the next corner Manolo actually starts being able to hear them. Soon they meet up and the 4 way intersection.
Hank (Tanner) -- AC 24/12/22 -- CMD 24 -- HP 70 Friday May 3rd, 2024 9:28:41 AM "Manolo! Good to see you again, buddy. This maze is something else, right? Let's see if we can find the exit before more weird stuff happens."
Hank (Tanner) -- AC 24/12/22 -- CMD 24 -- HP 70 Friday May 3rd, 2024 9:29:58 AM
(accidentally submitted)
Given the two options, Hank makes an arbitrary decision. [/B]"I'll try right, first."[/b]
Torrynashkabbeth (Nick) HP:40/40 AC:25 F11: R12 W:15 d6=4 ; d6=4 ; Friday May 3rd, 2024 9:40:04 AM
~~ Torryn quickly followed. Doing so in no way inhibited her capacity to heal her injuries (swift action on self). By the time she’s caught up with Hank, she was fully healed once more. She looked around and listened. How much more of this was there? No wonder no one had found the thingummy they were seeking. ~~~
Spells etc: 5/day: 2 used. Mage Armour. In effect.
Fey Spark: used0/6 1st lvl: used 2/5 Lay on Hands: used 2/5 Stunning Fist: used 0/4 Smite Evil: used 0/1
~~~
AC 13 HP 39/45 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K Friday May 3rd, 2024 12:53:58 PM "Lead on Hank, as good as any other direction.
Active Spell: Light; Empower rod 2/3 Acid Ray 8/8 30' range 1d6+3 Innate Used: 1st lvl: 5/7 2nd lvl: 4/6 3rd lvl: 4/4
Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.): ac:20/15/16. temp/hp:63/50. icy disposition, false life, darkvision, lucky d20+6=16 ; Friday May 3rd, 2024 3:32:23 PM
As they continue along, he continues to mark the walls with his chalk to direct them back to the exit.
This was a common practice for street people and gangs in the cities. These seemingly innocuous symbols and markings, unnoticed by most, would denote territory, safe areas and places to avoid. They even noted the attitudes of the occupants that lived there: kind woman, man with club, mean dog, etc. Mortimer uses the skills he learned on the streets in his adventuring life. There's not much difference between the two, he thinks. You break into someone's place and take their stuff ... live another day or die trying. It was all the same game.
(Perception: 16)
Manolo (Michael A) -- AC 21/17/16 -- CMD 20 -- HP 37/43 d20+8=11 ; Friday May 3rd, 2024 9:18:22 PM
Manolo tries to think about this kind of crypt/, dungeon before meeting his friends " This place has a lot of weak skeletons, don't you find it strange there are no strong enemies?,", he asks
Gnubert Glitterdust (Wade) AC: 20 T: 14 F: 18 R: 9 F: 14 W: 11 HPS: 47/51 CMD: 6 3d6=13 ; Sunday May 5th, 2024 8:31:35 PM "There he is!" Gnubert points at Manolo. Gnubert looks over the party and motions for everyone to gather in, "School circle guys." As everyone gathers closesly Gnubert channels energy one time to tops everyone off (13 points of healing)
Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11 ( 15 Mage Armor)(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 14/36 Monday May 6th, 2024 12:33:50 AM
Ask keeps calling out. Hoping to hear his friend call back.
DM Mitch and Hugh Crypt maze d8=1 ; d8=8 ; d20=2 ; d20=17 ; d10=2 ; d10=3 ; Monday May 6th, 2024 7:32:30 AM Hank tells Manolo it is good to see him again and that this maze is something else, He suggests they find the exit before more weird stuff happens. He suggests they go right. Torry quickly followed while healing her injuries, She tries to determine how much is there to go. Loryn tells Hank to lead on Mortimer continue to mark the walls with chalk to direct back to exit while reflecting on how he used the skills he learned on the street in his adventuring life. Manolo tries to think about this kind of crypt before meeting his friends and remarks how the lack of strong enemies is strange. Gnubert points at Manolo and says there he is before urging the team to circle up for some energy channeling. Ash keeps calling out hopefully to hear his friend call back
The party goes right, discussing the enemies along the way. The undead they’ve seen have been fairly battle damaged but all the signs point to it being a long, long, long time ago. Perhaps the defenses were once stronger, but age and abandonment have long eroded their effectiveness.
After proceeding past the twisting corridors Manolo had found himself in the party rounds a corner and once again an undead is waiting there for them. Will DC 15 Torry and Hank or be teleported somewhere. There are marks on the walls indicating you’ve been here before,
Hank (Tanner) -- AC 24/12/22 -- CMD 24 -- HP 70 d20+5=21 ; d20+16=19 ; 4d4+12=23 ; Monday May 6th, 2024 9:24:22 AM
(Will save 21)
Hank shakes off the effects of the magic, but it is enough to distract him from delivering an optimal counterattack. He jabs at the creature's face, using his bat like a spear.
(Attack 19, Damage 23)
"These things are a great example of why you hear stories of legendary adventurers who do things like divert a river to flood a dungeon."
AC 13 HP 45/45 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K Monday May 6th, 2024 9:42:24 AM
Gnubert's burst of healing falls across him and the last pains of the arrow strikes from earlier fade completely. Loryn makes a note to see if such things leave scars or not. Noting the chalk marks that Mortimer is making, he inquires, for they are more than simple ticks on the wall, which is what he would have done. Loryn bobs his head in excited agreement, as he did when learning something new, such a simple, yet amazingly effective idea! He can hardly wait to get back to Windhorne and explore the Hamlet anew with this fresh perspective.
Active Spell: Light; Empower rod 2/3 Acid Ray 8/8 30' range 1d6+3 Innate Used: 1st lvl: 5/7 2nd lvl: 4/6 3rd lvl: 4/4
Torrynashkabbeth (Nick) HP:40/40 AC:25 F11: R12 W:15 d20+15=29 ; d20+10=18 ; d20+9=28 ; d6=3 ; Monday May 6th, 2024 11:11:21 AM
~~ Whatever the creature was trying to do it had no effect on the Sacred Dancer. (Will save: 29). She wanted to attack as well, but with Hank in the way, that wasn’t really a viable option, but she was a dancer! She could again dance past the vile undead to attack it from the opposite side. (OOC: Acrobatics: 18 to get past the creature. If that counts only as a move action she will attack once. Back kick: Hits AC: 28. Damage: (d6+1) 4. Albeit with the tremendous amount of damage Hank inflicted, it might drop before Torryn even gets to act.) ~~~
Spells etc: 5/day: 2 used. Mage Armour. In effect.
Fey Spark: used0/6 1st lvl: used 2/5 Lay on Hands: used 2/5 Stunning Fist: used 0/4 Smite Evil: used 0/1
~~~
Manolo (Michael A) -- AC 21/17/16 -- CMD 20 -- HP 37/43 d20=20 ; Monday May 6th, 2024 5:14:05 PM
Manlo looks around in dismay. We have been here before,"what's going on here?", He asks, impressed by this revelation.
Natural 20 (Either for perception or perception traps)
Gnubert Glitterdust (Wade) AC: 20 T: 14 F: 18 R: 9 F: 14 W: 11 HPS: 47/51 CMD: 6 d20+16=23 ; Monday May 6th, 2024 7:33:05 PM
Gnubert winces as he hears the tell-tale screech of the undead. Gnubert keeps his mace handy but knows he is less than handy with it. Instead Gnubert begins to study the walls, floors, and ceiling for hidden doors, or passageways. (Perception DC 23)
Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.): ac:20/15/16. temp/hp:63/50. icy disposition, false life, darkvision, lucky Tuesday May 7th, 2024 1:22:39 AM
After noticing his marks on the wall, indicating they’ve been here before, Mortimer offers up an idea to keep this from repeating, ”Oye, do we needta ‘ammer every skull in this bone bunker?”
Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11 ( 15 Mage Armor)(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 14/36 d20+10=28 ; d20+15=24 ; Tuesday May 7th, 2024 6:11:16 AM
"This is madness" Ash whispers to himself. They've been here before and now another undead was attacking.
Perception 28 Knowledge religion 24 to figure the type of undead
DM Mitch and Hugh Crypt maze Tuesday May 7th, 2024 8:19:49 AM Hank shakes off the effects of the magic but it is enough for him to deliver a suboptimal strike against the creature but it is still enough to dispatch the weakened creature. He observes creatures like them are examples of why you hear stories of legendary adventurers diverting a river to flood a dungeon. Loryn has the last pains of his arrow strike healed by Gnubert’s energy channel. He resolves to check if the process leaves scars later then inquires of Mortimer what is up with the chalk marks. Torry goes to kick the creature only to find Hank had already dispatched it. Manolo looks around in Dismay as he realizes they have been here before and he asks what is going on. Gnubert winces as he hears the screech of the undead and then begins to study the walls, floors and ceilings looking for hidden doors or passageways. Mortimer suggests hammering every skull in the bone bunker as he also notices they’ve been there before. Ash whispers that this is madness.
(There seems to have been some confusion, I meant that if someone got teleported they got teleported an unknown distance back the way the party came. No one got teleported, so no one is in an area they’ve already been)
Once more the undead quickly goes down and the party is able to fully explore this branch of the maze. It’s another dead end. With their careful tracking the party is aware of only one other possible path, so some backtracking commences and soon they’re in an even windier section of the maze.
Torrynashkabbeth (Nick) HP:40/40 AC:25 F11: R12 W:15 Tuesday May 7th, 2024 10:35:16 AM
~~ Torryn moved on, skipping merrily around the corners. ”This is great!” She enthused. I bet there’s some really good cheese at the end. ~~~
Spells etc: 5/day: 2 used. Mage Armour. In effect.
Fey Spark: used0/6 1st lvl: used 2/5 Lay on Hands: used 2/5 Stunning Fist: used 0/4 Smite Evil: used 0/1
~~~
Hank (Tanner) -- AC 24/12/22 -- CMD 24 -- HP 70 Tuesday May 7th, 2024 11:07:38 AM "Mmm... Cheese. I love cheese. Let's order a charcuterie board to celebrate when we finish this dungeon. How's that sound?" Hank takes a few tentative steps forward.
AC 13 HP 45/45 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K Tuesday May 7th, 2024 3:30:15 PM Cheese. You know, that is something I have not worked on, worked with? sure, but never my very own. I bet I could convert or build something at Minerva's, not the best cheese, but pretty gouda certainly.
As the wind picks up, Loryn quiets down and gets serious again, well serious for the gnome at lease. He stops talking...
Psst, Torrynashkabbeth, Are there rocks ahead?
Perception take 10 - 21
Active Spell: Light; Empower rod 2/3 Acid Ray 8/8 30' range 1d6+3 Innate Used: 1st lvl: 5/7 2nd lvl: 4/6 3rd lvl: 4/4
Gnubert Glitterdust (Wade) AC: 20 T: 14 F: 18 R: 9 F: 14 W: 11 HPS: 47/51 CMD: 6 d20+16=31 ; Tuesday May 7th, 2024 7:35:05 PM
Gnubert finds no traces of hidden passages and follows with the party. As they enter the newest (?) section of the maze the cleric listens, and watches for danger (PERCEPTION DC 31). Gnubert chuckles at the gouda joke and smiles at Loryn,"That was pretty good!"
Manolo (Michael A) -- AC 21/17/16 -- CMD 20 -- HP 37/43 d20=5 ; Tuesday May 7th, 2024 9:01:56 PM
Manolo listens to the wind. "Ignoring the talk about cheese "
Perception 16
Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11 ( 15 Mage Armor)(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 14/36 Wednesday May 8th, 2024 12:15:50 AM
"Cheese isn't my concern, my concern is the bull headed brutes that usually live in these. Not to mention the undead... so do be on the lookout for some undead minotaur."
DM Mitch and Hugh Crypt maze Wednesday May 8th, 2024 8:24:40 AM
The party debates cheese and advances. After rounding a corner they suddenly come across more signs of combat. Well, a bit more than that.
Up to this point the maze has been, not pristine, but fairly plain with few signs of combat besides the damaged undead and chips in the stone. Ahead of you the entire wall has been blown out, as if by an explosion. And the next and the next, like someone got tired of navigating the maze and resorted to a more direct method of moving through it.
Ruble is scattered everywhere, making it difficult terrain, and through the multiple holes you can see what looks to be a vault door, twisted, ruined, and laying on the ground where it was blown off it’s hinges.
Torrynashkabbeth (Nick) HP:40/40 AC:25 F11: R12 W:15 Wednesday May 8th, 2024 9:59:07 AM
~~ ”Well, that doesn’t look very promising.” Torryn commented quietly before again moving forward, carefully picking her way through the debris. Channelling her inner “Drack”, she again did her best to sense any Evil ickyness lurking in the vicinity, only belatedly remembering that Drack didn’t call it ‘ickyness’. ~~~
Spells etc: 5/day: 2 used. Mage Armour. In effect.
Fey Spark: used0/6 1st lvl: used 2/5 Lay on Hands: used 2/5 Stunning Fist: used 0/4 Smite Evil: used 0/1
~~~
Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11 ( 15 Mage Armor)(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 14/36 d20+10=28 ; Wednesday May 8th, 2024 2:29:38 PM
"Maybe Manolo Is some god like diety with immense power and just pretends to be a normal chap getting lost, and just cheated to get out. .... or there's something else in this maze that Is bound to ruin our day."
Perception 28
AC 13 HP 45/45 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K Wednesday May 8th, 2024 4:54:47 PM "Looks like we might be a bit late for the party."
Loryn gestures towards the 'path' Hank and Torrynashkabbeth, be careful and lets see what's left."
Perception take 10 - 21
Active Spell: Light; Empower rod 2/3 Acid Ray 8/8 30' range 1d6+3 Innate Used: 1st lvl: 5/7 2nd lvl: 4/6 3rd lvl: 4/4
Manolo (Michael A) -- AC 21/17/16 -- CMD 20 -- HP 37/43 d20=16 ; Wednesday May 8th, 2024 7:43:24 PM
Manolo looks around and says, " I believe someone has beaten us, possibly treasure hunters...be on your guard", Manolo says.
Perception 27
Gnubert Glitterdust (Wade) AC: 20 T: 14 F: 18 R: 9 F: 14 W: 11 HPS: 47/51 CMD: 6 d20+16=21 ; Wednesday May 8th, 2024 7:59:58 PM
Gnubert looks over at Ash, "I forgot about that minotaur in the maze to be honest. We should probable keep an eye out for one of those!" As they walk up to the destruction Gnubert's jaw drops, "What in the name of the Gods..."
As Loryn direct Hank and Torry forward Gnubert adjusts his buckler, and wipes the sweat from his hands before hefting his light mace again. The cleric peers down the rubble strewn maze looking for danger (Perception DC 21)
Hank (Tanner) -- AC 24/12/22 -- CMD 24 -- HP 70 d20+11=27 ; Wednesday May 8th, 2024 10:47:43 PM "Yep, yep, let's take a look. Maybe we can tell what caused this mess." Hank bends over and inspects several loose stones, followed by the vault door, looking for any indication of what caused the damage.
(Knowledge - engineering check 27)
Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.): ac:20/15/16. temp/hp:63/50. icy disposition, false life, darkvision, lucky d20+6=11 ; d20+5=11 ; Thursday May 9th, 2024 12:40:36 AM
Mortimer was about to mention his favorite, most jelliest head cheese, when they come upon the destruction. At first, he thinks why they didn't do that ... then wonders 'what' had done it. The sight of the vault door's remains makes his eyes go wide.
His darkvisioned eyes dart all about the scene. He picks up a few tiny bits of debris and tries to determine if it was blasted, dug or worse yet, chewed! 'gulp!'
(Perception: 11. Appraise: 11. Sigh.)
DM Mitch and Hugh Crypt maze Thursday May 9th, 2024 6:30:52 AM Torry says things don’t look very promising in a quiet manner before moving forward and picking her way through the debris. She channels her inner Drack and starts detecting ickiness only later remembering he didn’t call it ickiness. Ash thinks that either Manolo is some god-like deity with immense power and just pretends to be a normal chap getting lost and just cheated to get out or there is something else in the maze bound to ruin their day. Loryn suggests they might be a bit late for the party and gestures toward the ‘path’ if you could call it that. He tells Hank and Torry to be careful. Manolo suggests they’ve been beaten perhaps by treasure hunters and that they should be on their guard. Gnubert says he forgot about the minotaur in the maze and that they should keep an eye out when he questions the destruction in font of them. He wipes sweat from his hands before hefting his light mace again. All the while peering down the rubble strewn maze for danger. Hank agrees that they should take a look and maybe they can figure out what caused the mess. Mortimer loses his train of thought at seeing the destruction, wondering what had causes this destruction.
Advancing the party finds themselves in a large, square room. The walls are thick and reinforced and various shelves and plinths lay long empty. In the corner of the room a small pile of gear sits, the only thing that seems to have survived the centuries of abandonment other than the guardians.
Hanks examination reveals a lot. There are lots of scorch marks here and there, and the roof is cracked but holding strong even after all of these years. This was done with some form of explosive, magical or mundane it’s impossible to tell, and done very carefully and skillfully to not collapse the underground chambers on top of the head of whomever was raiding the place. It probably took a few hours to blast through, something you can’t really do if defenders are assaulting your position.
Manolo’s look around also notices something. A flagstone doesn’t line up with the rest and turns out to be loose, hastily replaced after someone stuck some papers underneath. Surprisingly well preserved papers, maybe the vault, even broken, has some sort of preservation enchantment on it. The language is one Manolo can't read but others might recognize as High Woldian.
Torrynashkabbeth (Nick) HP:40/40 AC:25 F11: R12 W:15 d20+11=20 ; Thursday May 9th, 2024 8:15:53 AM
~~ What to make of all this? It wasn’t really her speciality – sifting through old stuff. Now had there been some dancing involved, it would have been entirely different. She contented herself with looking around. She’d found no hint of ickyness, so opened up her Feysight to detect for magical residues whilst wondering how much longer her Fey Armour would last. (She has 2 hours. I didn’t think it had been anything like that long.) ~~~ Perception: 20 ~~~ Spells etc: 5/day: 2 used. Mage Armour. In effect.
Fey Spark: used0/6 1st lvl: used 2/5 Lay on Hands: used 2/5 Stunning Fist: used 0/4 Smite Evil: used 0/1 ~~~
Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.): ac:20/15/16. temp/hp:63/50. icy disposition, false life, darkvision, lucky Thursday May 9th, 2024 8:49:13 AM
Mortimer notices the ancient writing and responds, "Old 'igh Woldian, it is. It says ..."
(Mortimer knows High Woldian, for some strange reason, huh!)
Hank (Tanner) -- AC 24/12/22 -- CMD 24 -- HP 70 Thursday May 9th, 2024 10:32:34 AM "These scorch marks were placed to blast the vault door without collapsing the infrastructure. Not an area spell. Most likely satchel charges or a pinpoint spell. That takes a good while to pull off, and the zombies wouldn't have been messing with them while they did it. They either bypassed the zombies, or they were able to keep them off. It looks like we are dealing with a treasure hunting team." Hank looks over at the note. "Kwa..ki..sur..pi..ni..ku? Can anyone read this?"
Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11 ( 15 Mage Armor)(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 14/36 Thursday May 9th, 2024 12:36:39 PM
Ash raises an eyebrow at Mortimer. "Look at the big brain on Mort here" Ash jokes. "Good on you."
AC 13 HP 45/45 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K Thursday May 9th, 2024 4:31:32 PM
The entry as described by Hank is impressive, very impressive. Definitely done well before The Argentium got here. No way they would have missed the sound and feel of this.
Loryn knew the spell to do so, but Mortimer actually knew High Woldian. He nods with Ash's assessment, Royale with cheese indeed."
Active Spell: Light; Empower rod 2/3 Acid Ray 8/8 30' range 1d6+3 Innate Used: 1st lvl: 5/7 2nd lvl: 4/6 3rd lvl: 4/4
Gnubert Glitterdust (Wade) AC: 20 T: 14 F: 18 R: 9 F: 14 W: 11 HPS: 47/51 CMD: 6 Thursday May 9th, 2024 8:48:00 PM
[/b]"You seem well versed in this knowledge Hank. Thank goodness for you in this case!"[/b] Gnubert looks around for anything else that might be helpful as he gives an appreciative nod to Mortimer, "Well done my friend!"
Manolo (Michael A) -- AC 21/17/16 -- CMD 20 -- HP 37/43 Thursday May 9th, 2024 9:52:13 PM
Manolo points to the piece of paper. "I can't read this", he says as he takes the piece of paper, wanting to show it to everyone. Perhaps someone could say something about this paper.
DM Mitch and Hugh Crypt maze Friday May 10th, 2024 7:37:40 AM Torry is kind of out of her depth with respect to sifting through old stuff. She opens up her fey sight to detect magic residues Mortimer reads the High Woldian Hank analyzes the scorch marks and concludes satchel charges then tries to interpret the writing but fails. Ash congrats Mortimer on being able to read High Woldian Loryn thinks Hank’s description of the entry was impressive and the action was done way in advance of the Argentium’s visit. Since Mortimer beat him to it Loryn can save a spell. Gnubert is impressed by Hank’s knowledge and says as much before giving a nod to Mortimer Manolo points to the piece of paper and says he can’t read this
Torry notes that the pile of gear in the corner radiates magic. It’s a motley collection of armor, weapons, and other items that will have to be identified, all in slightly rough condition bearing signs of combat, though intact enough to be used.
Mortimer is able to read High Woldian! The papers say…
”If you are reading this then the Spire Armory is no more. Our arrogance proved our undoing. We thought ourselves invincible with our magic weapons, our vault of artifacts, and our magically created soldiers. When others came to ask for help against the Ogre Warlord Kronk we scoffed. A mere ogre was no threat.
Now our constructs are shattered, our undead destroyed, and our vault blasted open. Though we inflicted great damage on his army I fear Kronk’s power has only grown with the addition of our artifacts. If he learns the true purpose of the Box of Svengaxi then may the gods help us all. It lets the holder enslave Djinn, and though I know of no way he could summon such a creature to use it on should he manage it his power can only grow.
Those who asked for our help said they were gathering at Eagle’s Pass. Myself and the few other survivors will join them, as we should have done before. If we succeed, we can recover our lost treasures and perhaps restore our order. So much is lost though… it may take the power of a Djinn to fix things. I leave this note here in case we fail. If anyone finds this you must find a way to defeat Kronk, or remove the box from his treasury. You’ve proven strong enough to defeat what was left of our defenses, perhaps that strength will let you defeat the warlord. Our artifacts cannot be left in the hands of one so evil.”
Hank (Tanner) -- AC 24/12/22 -- CMD 24 -- HP 70 Friday May 10th, 2024 8:09:34 AM "Soooo... Anyone know about 'Kronk' or 'Eagle's Pass?"
Torrynashkabbeth (Nick) HP:40/40 AC:25 F11: R12 W:15 Friday May 10th, 2024 8:44:50 AM
"No, I cannot say that I do." Remarked Torryn as she stepped across to inspect the items in the corner. She doubted that there'd be anything of interest to herself, but if something could still be put to good use, it made sense to take it back where it could so.
Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11 ( 15 Mage Armor)(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 14/36 d20+10=25 ; Friday May 10th, 2024 9:49:53 AM
Ash smiles to Loryn. "Ahh a fan of the finer things in life. "
He starts perusing the library of knowledge in his head about Kronk or Eagles Pass.
Knowledge Geography 25
Gnubert Glitterdust (Wade) AC: 20 T: 14 F: 18 R: 9 F: 14 W: 11 HPS: 47/51 CMD: 6 Sunday May 12th, 2024 7:07:08 PM "I have no idea about either. I am sure multiple of my brothers and sisters would know but their intellect towers above mine." Gnubert casts an eye about the destruction and shudders a bit.
Manolo (Michael A) -- AC 21/17/16 -- CMD 20 -- HP 37/43 d20+9=10 ; d20+9=22 ; Sunday May 12th, 2024 9:04:42 PM
Manolo thinks about the orge. "Kronk....we might have to ask our old friend about him", Manolo refers to Grog the Giant. He then proceeds to think loudly "So Eagle’s Pass....where did I hear that before?"
Local knowledge for the Orge warlord 10. Local knowledge for the place 22.
Ooc: we can ask grog....he !might know.
DM Mitch and Hugh Crypt maze Monday May 13th, 2024 8:02:32 AM Hank asks if anyone knows about ‘Kronk’ or ‘Eagle’s Pass’ Tory tells Hank that she doesn’t as takes a look at the items in the corner Ash smiles at Loryn and remarks that the gnome is a fan of the finer things in life before searching his head for knowledge about Kronk or Eagle’s Pass Gnubert says he has no idea of either and that some of his brothers and sisters might have owing to them being smarter than him. Manolo thinks about the ogre and suggests they ask Grog the Giant. He then searches his memory for Eagle’s Pass.
The party considers their knowledge of the area and Eagles Pass is maybe familiar? The events described are so long ago that it’s hard to know for certain without more research (AKA need a knowledge: history check. The place might not even be called Eagle’s Pass anymore)
Torry looks over the gear. Very much magical, but will have to roll a skill or cast Identify to figure out the exact enchantments.
There’s not much left to do down here. All of the other possible paths upstairs are caved in and there’s nothing else of value in these catacombs. Presumably the party starts the long, twisty trek back.
Torrynashkabbeth (Nick) HP:40/40 AC:25 F11: R12 W:15 Monday May 13th, 2024 8:21:30 AM
~~ There were some things that Torryn did well, like dancing. There some things that she just did, like riding Spot. And then there was paying attention. That really wasn’t one of her strong points. She was easily distracted. So, all the lessons that Agratha had attempted to impart about ‘arcana’ and ‘spellcraft’ had long since been forgotten.
“Hm...this stuff is magical, we should probably want to take it back with us.” She suggested hoping that perhaps a magical bag would accomplish that: one that she didn’t have to carry. ~~~ Perception: 20 ~~~ Spells etc: 5/day: 2 used. Mage Armour. In effect.
Fey Spark: used0/6 1st lvl: used 2/5 Lay on Hands: used 2/5 Stunning Fist: used 0/4 Smite Evil: used 0/1 ~~~
AC 13 HP 45/45 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K Monday May 13th, 2024 1:13:51 PM "Whatever our next move, it's not here. I suggest we pack up the magical gear that Torrnashkabbeth discovered and return to Windhorne. There we have access to the WLA and a bit more security than here. We can research this Kronk and Eagle's Pass as well as identify the magic and possible sell what we don't need in the Catacombs."
Unless someone has a compelling reason to stay put, Loryn helps to stow the magical gear into his Bag of Holding and starts heading out
Active Spell: Light; Empower rod 2/3 Acid Ray 8/8 30' range 1d6+3 Innate Used: 1st lvl: 5/7 2nd lvl: 4/6 3rd lvl: 4/4
Hank (Tanner) -- AC 24/12/22 -- CMD 24 -- HP 70 Monday May 13th, 2024 3:53:31 PM "Roger-dodger. We got some more clues, both explicit and implicit. We nabbed some loot. Nobody died. A great day! Let's identify this stuff and grab a congratulatory charcuterie board." Hank hefts his bat to his shoulder and stands up from investigating the stonework. "We will have to figure out getting back up that well, but it shouldn't be too hard."
Manolo (Michael A) -- AC 21/17/16 -- CMD 20 -- HP 37/43 d20=15 ; Monday May 13th, 2024 7:05:11 PM
Manolo agrees. He takes one more look at his surroundings, just in case he missed something about this place. "We need to be discreet about our true mission, don't forget we have a competition and they most likely will hurt and possibly kill us if they want to get the Box of Svengaxi " Perception 26
Gnubert Glitterdust (Wade) AC: 20 T: 14 F: 18 R: 9 F: 14 W: 11 HPS: 47/51 CMD: 6 Monday May 13th, 2024 7:12:39 PM
Gnubert shrugs, perhaps I should have studied geography, and history a bit more. he thinks to himself. The cleric walks over to the pile of gear and starts pulling out the items while making a much neater stack of it.
Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11 ( 15 Mage Armor)(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 14/36 Tuesday May 14th, 2024 7:35:45 AM
History wasn't Ash's strong suit. He kept quiet and headed back when the others were ready to leave
Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.): ac:20/15/16. temp/hp:63/50. icy disposition, false life, darkvision, lucky Tuesday May 14th, 2024 8:26:18 AM
(ooc: Sorry for missing the past two posts. Will post something as soon as I get to the office.)
DM Mitch and Hugh Crypt maze Tuesday May 14th, 2024 8:58:29 AM Torry has her strong suits as well as the things she just did but paying attention wasn’t one of her strong suits as she was easily distracted. She suggests that they take the magical stuff back with them. Loryn suggests they grab the magical gear and return to WIndhorne. With access to the WLA and more security they can research Kronk and Eagle pass as well as identify the magical items and sell whatever they don’t need. Hank reasons they got some clues, nabbed some loot and nobody died so it is a great day. They should identify this stuff and grab a congratulatory charcuterie board. He also points out they still have to get back up the well but that shouldn’t be too hard. Manolo Takes one more look at his surroundings just in case he missed something about this place. He suggests they be discreet about their true mission suggesting their competition will hurt or kill them Gnubert shrugs and thinks he should have studied history or geography a bit more. The cleric tries to organize the items in a neater way. Ash reflects that history isn’t his strong suit.
The party navigates back through the maze, helped a lot by the marks on the walls they made. They get back to the entrance of the well and climb out. It’s when they’re gathering together at the top to set out back to town that the Minotaur who confronted them at the Inn emerges from the trees.
Holding his arms up he says, ”I come in peace. Parlay.”
Torrynashkabbeth (Nick) HP:40/40 AC:21 F11: R12 W:15 d20+11=18 ; d20+7=14 ; Tuesday May 14th, 2024 10:34:59 AM
~~ “So….uh...How long have you been waiting for us to come out?” Torryn asked innocently as she took the opportunity to detect for evilly-ickiness. She then opened her Feysight to see if much magic was at play here. (Detect Magic) Just in case there was mischief a foot, she slowly took her bow from her back, but didn’t nock an arrow. She attempted to look as reasonable and inoffensive as possible. ~~~ Diplomacy: 14 Perception: 18 Mage armour will now have lapsed as likely more than 2 hours have passed since we entered. ~~~ Spells etc: 5/day: 2 used. Mage Armour.
Fey Spark: used0/6 1st lvl: used 2/5 Lay on Hands: used 2/5 Stunning Fist: used 0/4 Smite Evil: used 0/1 ~~~
Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11 ( 15 Mage Armor)(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 14/36 Tuesday May 14th, 2024 10:47:00 AM
Ash looks over the minotaur popping out. He turns to Mortimer and speaks in Draconic, banking on the minotaur not knowing it.
" what's up with this guy?" He asks Mortimer. "He pops up everytime something bad is going on. Plus l, minotaur, maze... you connect the dots "
Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.): ac:20/15/16. temp/hp:63/50. icy disposition, false life, darkvision, lucky d20+9=22 ; Tuesday May 14th, 2024 12:05:34 PM
(ooc: Back down in the vault, Mortimer would have gathered up the papers and stored them in his haversack, if no one else had done so.)
Mortimer shrugs at Ash. "Knew they'd be followin' us, I did. He's on cue for showin' up. The well would be too tight a squeeze for 'im, for sure."
He then turns to the minotaur and asks, "Name's Mortimer Margrave ... forgotten yours, I 'ave. Might as well be all introduced and proper, yeah, if we're ta be bumpin' into each other. As far as the well is concerned, it's been dry for a very long time!
(Diplomacy (with badge in view): 22.)
Manolo (Michael A) -- AC 21/17/16 -- CMD 20 -- HP 37/43 d20=16 ; Tuesday May 14th, 2024 7:12:43 PM
Manolo keeps an eye for a possible ambush
perception 27
Gnubert Glitterdust (Wade) AC: 20 T: 14 F: 18 R: 9 F: 14 W: 11 HPS: 47/51 CMD: 6 Tuesday May 14th, 2024 7:21:38 PM
Gnubert steps out of the well and sees the Minotaur. Gnubert makes sure his WLA badge is showing on his right shoulder, "You again? Where are your partners in crime? Have you come to assault us again?" The cleric keeps his words calm as he tamps down his anger.
Hank (Tanner) -- AC 24/12/22 -- CMD 24 -- HP 70 Wednesday May 15th, 2024 12:46:25 AM
(Tuesday post, super busy day)
Hank narrows his eyes at the sight of the minotaur. "I don't think we should parley. He didn't parley the last time we saw him, when he and his goons cast a spell on us and threatened us without so much as a how-do-you-do. The Golden Rule says he wants us to treat him roughly. I think we should go back to town, and give him a walloping if he doesn't leave us alone." Hank holds out a thumbs-down. "I vote nay."
DM Mitch and Hugh Crypt maze Wednesday May 15th, 2024 7:32:58 AM Torry asks how long the Minotaur was waiting for them to come out before using her ability to detect evilness and magic Ash looks over at the Minotaur popping out and asks Mortimer in Draconic what is up with how the Minotaur is always popping up and if the maze connection Mortimer tells Ash he figured the minotaur would show up and that the Spire armory was effectively too narrow for him. He then introduces himself and asks for the minotaur’s name Manolo keeps an eye out for an ambush Gnubert asks the Minotaur where his partners in crime are and if he has come to assault them again. Hank is of the opinion that they shouldn't parlay and maybe should beat up the minotaur.
The minotaur raises his hands a bit higher. ”Our first meeting was a warning. We have ways of learning if anyone is going to seek the box. When we do, we warn them away from it. You would be surprised how often it works.
You persisted however, thus now our second meeting. My people have investigated you after our first meeting. You seem the well intentioned type. Now you should know why the warning was given. Why the box must not be found. It is a tool of slavery, an evil lost to time. It must remain so. If an appeal to your self-preservation has not worked I now appeal to your sense of honor, of doing good for the sake of it. I know not why you seek the box, but its return can only do harm.”
Hank (Tanner) -- AC 24/12/22 -- CMD 24 -- HP 70 Wednesday May 15th, 2024 9:55:43 AM "Please elaborate. Be specific, Mr. Minotaur." Hank folds his arms across his chest in restrained patience.
Torrynashkabbeth (Nick) HP:40/40 AC:21 F11: R12 W:15 d20+11=27 ; Wednesday May 15th, 2024 11:13:13 AM
~~ Torryn continued to study the minotaur carefully. She wished that she were more accomplished at sensing others’ motives, but that was a skill that consistently eluded her.
”What you say sounds perfectly reasonable and certainly I’ve no desire to be a party to anything that promotes slavery or wickedness, but then…..that’s just what someone would say if they wanted us to stop looking for a desired item. So, I ask; what proof do you have of the truth of your assertions? Give me good reason – good credible reason - to desist in the search and I shall.”
Still she did not draw an arrow. She was more interested in hearing his response. Of course that didn’t preclude the possibility that he was a distraction and that his companions lay in wait to ambush them. She again looked around carefully.
Fey Spark: used0/6 1st lvl: used 2/5 Lay on Hands: used 2/5 Stunning Fist: used 0/4 Smite Evil: used 0/1 ~~~
AC 13 HP 45/45 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K d20+2=12 ; Wednesday May 15th, 2024 4:21:02 PM
Loryn listens and while he was good at lying, he was not as skilled at telling when others were. Slavery? the box. Perhaps a potent artifact that could bend others to the will of the wielder. There were far simpler and temporary spells to do so, why not something more potent. It was plausible certainly. It also seemed like something that would be mentioned earlier, but then again. The Argentium was relatively unknown, would you tip a group of unknown adventurers that they were seeking a powerful artifact of enslavement? Probably not, he concludes. So now onto another issue
Loryn speaks up, part of the trick of catching a lie is to keep them talking. "A question if I may. You say your group looked into us, did you likewise look into our benefactor? Our initial meetings and opinions is that he is a good and just man, but I would like to hear what you have to say on him.
Upon the answer Loryn continues, "Can you enlighten us on how long ago those walls were breached and the vault plundered. A message made the impression that some of the original order survived and the box is not as lost as you might wish it to be, but in a warlord's possession or passed down through kin.
Sense motive 12
Active Spell: Light; Empower rod 2/3 Acid Ray 8/8 30' range 1d6+3 Innate Used: 1st lvl: 5/7 2nd lvl: 4/6 3rd lvl: 4/4
Manolo (Michael A) -- AC 21/17/16 -- CMD 20 -- HP 37/43 d20=18 ; Wednesday May 15th, 2024 8:43:22 PM
Manolo just listens..he tries to look at the minotaur's body language and tone of voice, thinking about possible agendas. He simply asks without listening, " Hi, mate, where is everyone else from your group?", he asks, still observing the minotaur
Sense motive rolled a 18 (unable to check my character sheet due to technical issues)
Gnubert Glitterdust (Wade) AC: 20 T: 14 F: 18 R: 9 F: 14 W: 11 HPS: 47/51 CMD: 6 d20+16=21 ; Wednesday May 15th, 2024 10:17:33 PM
Gnubert listens, frowns and then with the boldness of Domi he strides outwards attempting to see if the rest of his companions are hidden behind him (Perception DC 21)
Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11 ( 15 Mage Armor)(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 14/36 d20+6=22 ; d20+4=24 ; Wednesday May 15th, 2024 10:36:58 PM
Ash looks the minotaur up and down, trying to figure out the angle he's taking.
Sense motive 24(nat 20) Perception 22
DM Mitch and Hugh Crypt maze Thursday May 16th, 2024 8:11:58 AM Hank asks for the minotaur to elaborate and to be specific Torry tells the Minotaur that what he says is reasonable but it is also just the thing one would say to get them to stop and demands proof Loryn asks questions concerning what the minotaur knows of their patron and how long ago the armory was breached. He also tells of the message that suggests the box is not as lost as the Minotaur’s group would like to believe Manolo listens and observes the Minotaur’s body language before asking where the rest of its group is Gnubert listens, frowns then tries with the boldness of Domi to determine if the minotaurs companions are nearby. Ash looks the minotaur up and down trying to figure out the angle he is taking
The minotaur seems genuinely surprised by the party’s statements and questions. ”You don’t…” the Minotaur says before stopping himself. He takes maybe half a minute to consider what to say. Meanwhile the party examine the area closely and the minotaur himself. As best as they can tell he is in fact both alone and being honest.
He speaks again. ”I will give you a modicum of trust. The box was created in a time long lost to memory. My order formed around a promise to ensure it could never be used. At one point, hundreds of years ago, my order held the box in safe-keeping, but a traitor amongst us worked with outsiders to steal it away and our order was decimated. It was a time of much chaos for us and the exact details of the history are lost but one of our agents told us he would sacrifice himself to ensure the box was lost to time.
Since then we have rebuilt our order and my elder’s magic allows us to learn of anyone who would seek out the box. We warn them away and keep information of the box suppressed as best we can.
We know little of your employer; just that you were being hired to find the box. We used more mundane methods to learn more of you, which failed to turn up much on the man who hired you other than what is known locally.
Our elders then prophesied that you would learn the true purpose of the box here, in these ruins. Taking into account what we now know of your group it was decided I should approach you alone and appeal to your better nature. So I am surprised that you demand proof, for I was under the impression you already had it. Perhaps something you discovered will have new meaning if you reflect on it.”
Intelligence check 10 Highlight to display spoiler: { Wait, didn’t that letter Mortimer read say something about slavery? }
Torrynashkabbeth (Nick) HP:40/40 AC:21 F11: R12 W:15 d20=16 ; Thursday May 16th, 2024 8:45:21 AM
~~ ”And I’ve already answered that I want no part of anything that promotes slavery or anything bad, but let’s change positions here. Put yourself in my shoes and I in yours. All you’ve done is explain your position. You still have yet to provide any real proof of the veracity of your words. Equally, what have we done to demonstrate that we only want good to be the result of our endeavours? I will concede that I feel our ‘employer’s’ reasons for acquiring the box seem only marginally altruistic. I’d much prefer it if we knew exactly what the whole truth of the matter is.” Torryn had needed to be convinced to go along with this quest. She was the most reluctant participant; at least it seemed so to her. This box seemed in no way aligned with the work and aspirations of a Sacred Dancer. She turned to the others.
”He’s not evil, but has magic about his person – which seems a reasonable precaution. I am increasingly loathe to continue in this task. It does not seem entirely consistent with promoting goodness and that has always been the goal of the Argentium.”
Mortimer gives the others a knowing glance, he remembers the ancient papers saying, 'It lets the holder enslave a Djinn, and though I know of no way he could summon such a creature to use it on should he manage it his power can only grow.'
This knowing glance to the others is meant to imply the minotaur is speaking the truth about the artifact's enslaving capabilities. (Bluff [Convey Secret Message]: 18).
Mortimer seems most interested in the information the minotaur's superiors had gathered on them. He steps forward and asks the minotaur in all sincerity, "Mister Minotaur, if ya don't mind me askin', what didya dig up about me? I'd really like ta know."
AC 13 HP 45/45 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K d20+2=17 ; Thursday May 16th, 2024 2:18:41 PM
Loryn rubs at his ample nose and gives his cheek a proper scratch as it had started to inconveniently itch. Slavery and evil were pretty big words to throw around to the gnome and he finds himself stating so. "Slavery and evil are pretty big words and not necessarily ones I would choose to describe what we know about this 'Box'. Here's the thing, I would not consider an Elemental gem as a tool of enslavement or evil and yet it holds an elemental and to a box that can hold a djinni does not necessarily fall to that as well.
I have no issue taking you on what you say, but it prompts a follow up for me to ask about the sequence of events. Correct me, but what you are telling us is that the breach and evidence we found below was prior to the sacrifice a member of your order made to ensure the lost status of the 'Box'. Yes?"
Turning to the others, "If that is the case, then this Kronk fellow and Eagles Pass become pretty unimportant as they predate the 'Box' going missing and lost. Now Im all for, and always will be for, the solving of a good mystery or finding some lost antiquities, at best this is a back burner."
Active Spell: Light; Empower rod 2/3 Acid Ray 8/8 30' range 1d6+3 Innate Used: 1st lvl: 5/7 2nd lvl: 4/6 3rd lvl: 4/4
Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11 ( 15 Mage Armor)(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 14/36 Thursday May 16th, 2024 2:31:28 PM
Piggybacking on Loryns thoughts, Ash adds. " there are stories of djinn and genies being trapped in artifacts and lamps through out our history. Nowhere did we ever say, that's slavery. "
Shifting topics, "I get you're part of a group, that believes they're doing the right thing, but is it possible the rallying point is out dated and just stuck in your ways. "
Manolo (Michael A) -- AC 21/17/16 -- CMD 20 -- HP 37/43 d20=20 ; d20=11 ; Thursday May 16th, 2024 7:55:47 PM
The minotaur seemed honest to Manolo....he remembered what the box used for...but it still bothered him. 'He is obviously alone and now he is speaking about prophecy? And speaking the truth?' ,Manolo thinks and scratches his head in frustration. "So tell me, what are these prophecies of the elders say about us, what is going to happen now ?!", Manolo asks in quick manner. Intelligence natural 20 D20=11 to spot Mortimer secret message.
Gnubert Glitterdust (Wade) AC: 20 T: 14 F: 18 R: 9 F: 14 W: 11 HPS: 47/51 CMD: 6 d20+2=5 ; Thursday May 16th, 2024 10:56:09 PM
Gnubert finds no evidence of any others with the minotaur. "I agree with Torry. In that something is off about this whole thing. Also, Loryn is correct about needing more information, the truth, and all of it." The cleric turns to the minotaur, "How do we know you are telling the truth and not just the version to manipulate us?"
Hank (Tanner) -- AC 24/12/22 -- CMD 24 -- HP 70 Thursday May 16th, 2024 11:31:46 PM "Pretty much what they said. You have magic that lets you know when someone is searching for the box, but you don't have magic to find the box? That seems pretty weird. You could allow treasure hunters to find the box, then you could try to buy it from them." Hank is not convinced by the explanation.
DM Mitch and Hugh Crypt maze Friday May 17th, 2024 7:31:01 AM Torry reiterates she wants no part in anything promoting slavery or anything bad. She also suggests that the minotaur put himself in their shoes in their shoes. She points out how he has not provided proof of his claims and while their employers reasons for acquiring the box were only marginally altruistic. She’s ready to stop the hunt if what the minotaur says is true Mortimer remembers the scrap of ancient paper and tries to give the others a knowing glance. He then asks the minotaur what they found on him Loryn compares the box to an elemental gem and prompts a follow up to ask about the sequence of events. He asks if the breach and the evidence they found below predates the sacrifice an order member made. If that is the case though he argues eagles pass and Kronk become unimportant. He says he’s for the solving of mysteries and finding antiquities but if that is the order of events that makes this a backburner Ash points out that there are stories of djinn and genies being trapped in artifacts and lamps throughout history and nowhere did it ever say that is slavery. He changes gears and acknowledges the minotaur and their group believes they are doing the right thing but suggests they could just have outdated views. Manolo gets the impression the minotaur is being honest but something bothers him. He asks what the prophecies of the elders say about their party and what is going to happen now. Gnubert agrees something is off about this whole thing and that Lorryn is correct about needing more information and the whole truth. He asks the minotaur how do they know he is telling the whole truth and not just a partial version to manipulate the party Hank finds it weird that the minotaur’s order has magic that can detect when someone is searching for the box but they don’t have magic that can find the box. He suggests allowing treasure hunters finding the box and then having the order buy it off them.
At Loryn and Ash’s comment the minotaur raises clenched fists. His veins pop, his eyes bulge, and he takes a threatening step forward before very visibly forcing himself to not physically assault the pair. ”How dare you.” He whispers, voice dripping with rage. ”If some being from another plane came to your home, dragged your grandparents back to theirs, and magically bound them there in forced servitude would that not be slavery? But oh, as long as they’ve done it for generations it’s fine, it’s just tradition. No one ever called it slavery, you’re overreacting. Monsters, all of you. I have said my piece. We will meet again, and when we do you will have abandoned your quest, or I will kill you with my bare hands."
He whirls about and storms off into the woods. You get the feeling attempts to stop him or continue the conversation will end in violence.
Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11 ( 15 Mage Armor)(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 14/36 Friday May 17th, 2024 9:53:36 AM
"If you were able to kill us, you would have already. But you know that's not possible. " Ash yells to the retreating minotaur. "Why not jump to the fun part now, cause we're not all the brightest here and we certainly aren't calling it quits in the mission. You show up and give us convuloted riddles and expect us to jump to at your snap of a finger. "
Torrynashkabbeth (Nick) HP:40/40 AC:21 F11: R12 W:15 Friday May 17th, 2024 10:01:39 AM
~~ ”Um...actually...I am rather minded NOT to proceed further with this. This isn’t going to bring good and could very well bring a lot of harm. It’s just not a Scared Dancer thing to do; so when we get back to town, that’s it for me.” Torryn replied.
The man with al the presents had been very generous and not just to them, to the town, but getting the box simply didn’t seem the ‘right thing’ to do to her. It wasn’t to thwart evil or perpetuate good. It was for a collection. Contrariwise, the others appeared to be not evil and wishing to see that evil was not spread. That to her, was a more telling argument.
~~~ Spells etc: 5/day: 2 used. Mage Armour.
Fey Spark: used0/6 1st lvl: used 2/5 Lay on Hands: used 2/5 Stunning Fist: used 0/4 Smite Evil: used 0/1 ~~~
Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.): ac:20/15/16. temp/hp:63/50. icy disposition, false life, darkvision, lucky d20+6=12 ; Friday May 17th, 2024 12:01:10 PM
Both eyebrows rise as Mortimer is surprised by the minotaur's rather emotional response. What he knew of the bloke from their various meetings was that he was very controlled at disciplined. He was mindful and carefully worded his responses, even when they were threats. This was a very emotionally charged subject to him to lose control like that.
Mortimer turns back to Loryn and Ash and says, "Oi, that got personal quick! There's more ta this than meets the eyes, yeah." He then winces when Ash attempts to escalate the situation, "Whoa!"
When the minotaur appeared to be thoroughly out of earshot, Mortimer explains his thoughts. "I'm thinkin' this is not your run of the mill taur. He could very well be a djinn 'imself or part of a djinn bloodline, yeah. Didn't ya hear 'im mentionin' grandparents and all? Odd thing ta say, it is!"
(Sense Motive: 12, to confirm his theory.)
Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.): ac:20/15/16. temp/hp:63/50. icy disposition, false life, darkvision, lucky Friday May 17th, 2024 12:08:37 PM
(ooc: I recall that we found some gear in the vault, but I can't find a list of it anywhere. Just wondering what the items were, so I could list them on the party treasure list. )
DM Mitch and Hugh Crypt maze Friday May 17th, 2024 12:37:36 PM
(no one has gotten around to identifying them yet.)
Hank (Tanner) -- AC 24/12/22 -- CMD 24 -- HP 70 Friday May 17th, 2024 7:09:19 PM "Well, that was odd. He shows up, threatens us, and refuses to explain himself before leaving. Then he shows up again, gives a few cryptic statements, gets offended, and leaves again. What a goober! I'm guessing he spends too much time with his secret order and not enough time socializing with a wide variety of people. It's like talking to an isolated hermit who doesn't understand how other people think." Hank taps his bat against an open palm. "The only thing he said that wasn't cryptic was a promise of violence. I am more than happy to oblige."
AC 13 HP 45/45 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K Saturday May 18th, 2024 9:21:19 AM
Loryn steps back when the minotaur steps forward. Not the reaction he was expecting. He casts an eye up at Ash and then to the minotaur, or rather likely a djinni in minotaur form to see if the wizard had escalated the encounter.
While I want to know more about this box and such, I tend to agree Torrnyashkabbeth. I did not find him all that cryptic. This Box, binds a djinni within and his order and very much threat , lets call him a minotaur for now, finds is extremely offensive and akin to slavery. His order feels the Box is safe in it's lost status and doesn't want people, us, poking about for it. " Loryn shrugs, "I'm inclined to be satisfied with that. Let's head back to Windhorne, we can Identify the magical gear we discovered and tell Nick that we are closing the book on this and strongly urge him to do so as well. we have no compelling good reason to go after the thing and if it is remotely as dangerous or what have you as it is now being suggested, It's best it stays lost and there is an entire group trying to keep it that way. I'm good."
Active Spell: Light; Empower rod 2/3 Acid Ray 8/8 30' range 1d6+3 Innate Used: 1st lvl: 5/7 2nd lvl: 4/6 3rd lvl: 4/4
DM Mitch and Hugh Crypt maze Monday May 20th, 2024 8:48:50 AM Ash suggests if the minotaur were able to kill them it would have done so already and suggests he just jump to the fun part right now saying they aren’t calling it quits nor are they jumping at the snap of the minotaur’s fingers. Torry has a different take than Ash and thinks they should no longer continue looking for the treasure box and that although their patron seemed benevolent his reason for searching the box was collecting versus the order not wishing for evil to be spread which is more compelling to her. Mortimer is surprised by the minotaurs emotional response. He suggests that there is more to the minotaur than meets the eye and reasons that the minotaur might be part djinn or from a djinn bloodline. Mortimer Highlight to display spoiler: { The minotaur did fly away last time and that isn’t something minotaurs or monks are known for doing, djinn on the other hand… } Hank thinks it odd that the minotaur showed up threatened them and then refused to explain himself before leaving and then shows up offers cryptic statements gets offended and leaves again. He suggests the minotaur spends too much time with the order and agrees with Ash in being ready to oblige the promise of violence Loryn does want to know more about the box but tends to agree with Torry. Reasoning he wasn’t all that cryptic. He suggests that this box binds a djinni within and the order considers that a threat. The minotaur doesn’t want them poking around for it and he’s inclined to be satisfied with that suggesting they get back to Windhorne, identify the gear and tell Hiroshi Katsu they aren’t continue the pursuit.
Sounds like the party is split on what to do. It sounds like Loryn and Torry are ready to call it quits on the treasure hunt and let the box stay lost. Ash and Hank are undeterred in continuing the hunt and are ready to exchange violence again with the minotaur in the future. Good thing you have a short while to get to Windhorne to figure out just how you want to proceed moving forward.
Once they get back they’ll have some errands to run as well. They need to identify the magic items and message their employer to set up a meeting.
Torrynashkabbeth (Nick) HP:40/40 AC:21 F11: R12 W:15 Monday May 20th, 2024 9:01:07 AM
~~ Heading back Torryn’s mercurial mind was not on the matter of the mysterious box, their employer or even the sundry magical items that they’d found. No, she was thinking about Spot. Spot would need her exercise and it was a pleasant day for it. It would have been nice to bring her along on this journey, but it had proven a prudent choice not to bring her, given the arrival of the minotaur. That being said, he hadn’t seemed the sort to harm a horse. Then there was practice. She always needed more practice. It wasn’t a chore for her. She loved to dance. So it was she skipped and danced her way back to town.
~~~ Spells etc: 5/day: 2 used. Mage Armour.
Fey Spark: used0/6 1st lvl: used 2/5 Lay on Hands: used 2/5 Stunning Fist: used 0/4 Smite Evil: used 0/1 ~~~
Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11 ( 15 Mage Armor)(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 14/36 Monday May 20th, 2024 9:29:32 AM
"Thought so" Ash whispered to himself. His mind went back to his schoolmates teasing him when he was younger. He instinct put his hands to his bent nose. His dad made him go back to fight, but Ash wouldn't raise his fists and got another beating. His dad kept sending him back until Ash finally fought back with some minor magic to inconvenience their lives. Ever since then, he swore no threat wouldn't be matched with a fight from him.
"Ahh.. now where were we.. I guess we have some things to discuss. Myself Personally, I'm in favor of the ruling of the majority. We vote to go, I go... we vote to quit. I quit. "
Hank (Tanner) -- AC 24/12/22 -- CMD 24 -- HP 70 Monday May 20th, 2024 2:04:05 PM "Well, here's what I'm thinking -- some members of the party don't want to continue because finding the box doesn't really accomplish any good, right? But what if, bear with me, what if a bunch of evil people find the box? Wouldn't that make the world a slightly less pleasant place to live? Wouldn't it be better if good people find the box and make sure that it stays safe, or take steps to see it destroyed? Just a thought."
Manolo (Michael A) -- AC 21/17/16 -- CMD 20 -- HP 37/43 Monday May 20th, 2024 6:06:32 PM
"I am with Hank on this one....we are not the only ones who search for this box, if someone with ill intentions finds or gets the box we are actually to blame..", he pauses and continues. " Remember that we don't have a specific hardline time limit on this special quest"
AC 13 HP 45/45 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K Monday May 20th, 2024 6:24:31 PM
Loryn nods and agrees with Hank, "I hear what you are saying, however a few things. We don't have any idea where the box is. We don't know of anyone except us looking for it and there is already a group protecting it and and and , yes Manolo, exactly that. We are under no time frame pressure at all. We just came from the only clue anyone, as far as we know, in the Wold has. The Spire Armory, and that clue is several hundred years out of date and cold.
The minotaur and his crew want to keep the box safe, i say let them do their job. If they need help, they know where to find us. I'm going to be a hard no outside of a compelling reason and what if a bad guy finds it is not remotely good enough. No reason not to tell our man who put us on this, everything we know and urge him to lay off as well. My life is better spent elsewhere and on other things rather than taking on the roll of eternal guardian."
Active Spell: Light; Empower rod 2/3 Acid Ray 8/8 30' range 1d6+3 Innate Used: 1st lvl: 5/7 2nd lvl: 4/6 3rd lvl: 4/4
Gnubert Glitterdust (Wade) AC: 20 T: 14 F: 18 R: 9 F: 14 W: 11 HPS: 47/51 CMD: 6 Monday May 20th, 2024 8:26:32 PM
OOC: I am sorry for missing Friday's post. Took a trip to San Antonio for the weekend and returned home late. I have been there several times but it was the first time I managed to make it to all 5 Missions set up by the Sapnish and it was amazing.
Gnubert keeps his mouth shut this time as the minotaur disappears into the trees. "Perhaps this time we just let him go. After all he said he may return, and in that case we should be ready for whatever comes our way. As for this box, and treasure. We need more answers. What was this place? What order is the monotaur a part of? Is it possible to be part djinn? Those questions deserve answers. Should we get them they may decide our journey"
Gnubert turns to Loryn and Torry, "They are correct about the search though. Does this box need to be drug out into the world if it is lost, and has been lost for however long? I am not sure, and both groups seem to have a different reason for their search. Perhaps we should allow them to destroy each other, and we can protect the hamlet."
Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.): ac:20/15/16. temp/hp:63/50. icy disposition, false life, darkvision, lucky Monday May 20th, 2024 10:41:37 PM
After having had two encounters with the minotaur and his secret order and learning the reasons for what they do, Mortimer is perfectly fine with letting this job go.
"Torryn, do monks ever learn ta fly in all their mystupfin' ways? The minotaur took to the air like a leaf on the breeze when first we met. Not very monky or taurish, it is!"
Turning back to everyone else, Mortimer suggests a third option, "Even more now, I'm thinkin' this taur is a bona fide djinn. We should strike deal with'em. We team up ... they get the box an do with it what they will. We pinch all the rest."
Torrynashkabbeth (Nick) HP:40/40 AC:21 F11: R12 W:15 Tuesday May 21st, 2024 5:55:27 AM
Torryn considered Mortimer's words before answering.
"Not usually, although I have heard that some can jump vast distances and fall, like a leaf with sustaining harm. I guess that's almost like flying. As to Sacred Dancers, I hear that it IS possible with a LOT of training, but Mr Mino wasn't a Sacred dancer. that's for sure." He might not be evil, but she wasn't minded to trust him sufficiently to want to team with him. there was still a lot he'd left unsaid.
DM Mitch and Hugh Crypt maze Tuesday May 21st, 2024 8:18:56 AM Torry’s thoughts turn to Spot as she dances her way back to town. Ash figures they have some things to discuss and is willing to go along with the group’s decision moving forward. Hank suggests it is better for good people to find the box and make sure it stays safe or take steps to destroy it lest evil people find it. Manolo says he’s with Hank on this one and agrees they aren’t the only people searching for the box and if someone with ill intentions gets their first they’ll be to blame Loryn nods and agrees with Hank except he points out they don’t have any idea where the box is and there is already a group protectiing it and that the Spire Armory clue was several hundred years out of date and old. He figures let the minotaur and his crew protect the box and he’s a hard no outside of a more compelling reason than what if a bad guy finds it is not good enough. He suggests they tell Hiroshi everything they know and urge him to lay off as well. Gnubert thinks they need more answers before deciding their journey. He turns to Loryn and Torry and asks if the box needs to be drug out into the wold if it is lost and has been lost for how long? He suggests letting both groups destroy each other so they can protect the hamlet. Mortimer asks Torry if monks ever learn to fly in all their mystupfin ways. He points out that the taur flew like a leaf on the breeze when they first met and that that isn’t very monkey or taurish. He then suggests a third option that if the taur is a bona fide djinn they strike a deal to team up and the order would get the box to do with as they will while the Argentum gets the rest of the treasure they find.
The party gets back to town late in the afternoon, having spent most the day just traveling and the rest underground. They could try to squeeze in a meeting with their employer tonight or wait until morning. There’s other stuff to do as well such as figuring out all these magic items and distributing them.
Torrynashkabbeth (Nick) HP:40/40 AC:21 F11: R12 W:15 Tuesday May 21st, 2024 9:49:28 AM
~~ There were more important things than boxes, angry minotaurs and magical items. Things like looking after horses. So it was that Torryn headed straight to the stable.
”Hello Spot, what have you got to tell me? You didn’t miss much – not really, just some icky undead and a grumpy old minotaur. I think…..we should go for a ride. It’s not too late. What do you say?” Torryn took Spot’s whickering as assent and in short order they headed back out of town, headed towards the coast for some fresh air.
~~~ Spells etc: 5/day: 2 used. Mage Armour.
Fey Spark: used0/6 1st lvl: used 2/5 Lay on Hands: used 2/5 Stunning Fist: used 0/4 Smite Evil: used 0/1 ~~~
Hank (Tanner) -- AC 24/12/22 -- CMD 24 -- HP 70 Tuesday May 21st, 2024 9:53:25 AM
Hank holds out his hands in appeasing gesture. "Okay, just thought I would try. It sounds like we have agreement. Let's go tell our employer what happened, give him the clue we found, and be done with it."
AC 13 HP 45/45 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K Tuesday May 21st, 2024 12:11:52 PM
Loryn nods, looks like the group is essentially in agreement to let this lie. At least for now. if more information becomes available or the 'minotaur' asks for aid, they would address it then.
Back in town, Loryn thinks sooner is better than later and agrees with Hank to have the meeting before retiring for the evening. The items could wait, or if Ash or Mortimer rather tinker, that was fine as ell. Torrnashkabbeth was already out the door before the quick minded gnome could even think to say something, no worries. The young lady was quite capable of handling anything that could be about the hamlet.
A quick Prestidigitation later and Loryn was set to be presentable to their now former employer. "Let's go deliver some news and advise."
Active Spell: Empower rod 2/3 Acid Ray 8/8 30' range 1d6+3 Innate Used: 1st lvl: 5/7 2nd lvl: 4/6 3rd lvl: 4/4
Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.): ac:20/15/16. temp/hp:63/50. icy disposition, false life, darkvision, lucky d20+6=18 ; Tuesday May 21st, 2024 1:32:20 PM
Knowing they are being spied upon, either magically or not, Mortimer casts Detect Magic within their common room. He scan the room for magical sensors of the divination sort.
(Mortimer casts Detect Magic. Range: 60-ft. Duration: Concentration, up to 7 minutes. Spellcraft: 18, to determine if any detected auras around the room are Divinations.)
IF he does locate a divination sensor, Mortimer will look at it directly and give it a knowing grin and a wink; in a way that says, 'you've been made!' If he detects this, he will address his on lookers, "Oi, why won't you stop by for dinner, yeah? 'ave a nice talk. Bring somethin' ta drink, will ya."
Gnubert Glitterdust (Wade) AC: 20 T: 14 F: 18 R: 9 F: 14 W: 11 HPS: 47/51 CMD: 6 Tuesday May 21st, 2024 8:20:51 PM
Gnubert agrees to go with Loryn and Hank to deliver the notice to their "employer". The cleric isn't a fan and will do his best to keep his mouth shut.
Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11 ( 15 Mage Armor)(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 14/36 Tuesday May 21st, 2024 9:47:55 PM
Ash agrees with the majority, and follows suit with their decision. If they go to meet with the boss, he'll take the trip, otherwise he spends his time identifying the items they found .
Manolo (Michael A) -- AC 21/17/16 -- CMD 20 -- HP 37/43 Tuesday May 21st, 2024 10:03:09 PM
Manolo doesn't do anything special but goes to rest for a bit...
DM Mitch and Hugh Crypt maze Wednesday May 22nd, 2024 7:08:03 AM Torry goes to visit Spot and then goes for a ride along the coast Hank holds out his hands in an appeasing gesture and says that he thought he’d try but the party has an agreement. He suggests they go to their employer, tell him what happened, give him the clue they found and be done with it. Lorryn nods that the group is in agreement to let this lie. He agrees that sooner is better than later and agrees to a meeting in the evening with their employer. He cleans himself up with a quick prestidigitation and says lets go deliver some news and advise Mortimer casts detect magic within their common room looking for magical sensors but doesn’t find anything Knowledge: Arcana 20 Highlight to display spoiler: { The minotaur mentioned prophecy. There are spells such as the one’s Gnubert used where you magically get an answer for a question, and it is likely that is how they are predicting where you’ll be rather than active spying. } Gnubert agrees to go with Loryn and Hank to deliver notice although he isn’t a fan and will keep his mouth shut. Ash agrees with the majority and follows suit with their decision. He agrees to go with the group to meet their employer Manolo goes to rest
Hank, Gnubert, Lorryn, and Ash go to arrange a meeting with Hiroshi to discuss their recent adventure and to tell them the Argentum is done with the hunt. At the Inn it turns out you can’t just waltz up to the door of a tenant and say hi; the party is met at the door by the owner of the inn who sends up a messenger. Hiroshi’s response is sent down. ”In the middle of something at the moment. Perhaps your whole group may join me for dinner in 2 hours?”
Given that there is now time to burn the party is able to identify all the items they found.
3 longswords - 45 gp (15 gp / per), 6 shortswords - 30 gp (10/per) 3 composite longbows with a +3 strength rating (400 gp) +2 Scale Mail - 4200 gp +1 light crossbow - 2,335gp ring of jumping - 2500 gp ioun stone - dusty rose prism - 5000 gp Potion of Resistance CL 1 - 25 gp oil of shilelagh - 50 gp oil of grease - 50 gp work breastplate - 350 gp +1 spiked gauntlet - 2,305 headband of inspired wisdom +2 - 4000 potion of invisibility CL 3 - 300 +1 light steel shield - 1159 gp warhammer+1 - 2312 gp Elixir of Vision - 250 gp
Torrynashkabbeth (Nick) HP:40/40 AC:21 F11: R12 W:15 Wednesday May 22nd, 2024 8:48:45 AM
~~ After her ride, Torryn again groomed Spot, but cheated in that the judicious application of her magic made the task that much quicker. Thereafter she stre4tched. Stretching was very important for Sacred dancers! Thus it was rather late by the time she returned home to learn of the dinner appointment.
”I think he’ll take it well. After all, he did say we were free to withdraw from any agreement at any time we wanted.” She said optimistically.
~~~ Spells etc: 5/day: 2 used. Mage Armour.
Fey Spark: used0/6 1st lvl: used 2/5 Lay on Hands: used 2/5 Stunning Fist: used 0/4 Smite Evil: used 0/1 ~~~
Hank (Tanner) -- AC 24/12/22 -- CMD 24 -- HP 70 Wednesday May 22nd, 2024 9:28:16 AM "True, and we are going to give him what might be the only clue in the whole world."
In regards to loot, Hank indicates that he would like one of the composite longbows.
AC 13 HP 45/45 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K Wednesday May 22nd, 2024 1:19:44 PM "Dinner always sounds good, please let Mr Hiroshi know that we will be in attendance."
Loryn heads back to Minerva's and assists in the identification of the items. "Not too shabby at all, about 30k so 15 at the Catacombs or roughly 2,100 each. But we can go through more after dinner. Oh everybody get your spruce on as we are going to meet with Mr Hiroshi over dinner tonight in about 2 hours."
while many of the items are useful, Loryn doesn't feel they are of particular use to him and will pass on it all.
Active Spell: Empower rod 2/3 Acid Ray 8/8 30' range 1d6+3 Innate Used: 1st lvl: 5/7 2nd lvl: 4/6 3rd lvl: 4/4
Manolo (Michael A) -- AC 21/17/16 -- CMD 20 -- HP 37/43 Wednesday May 22nd, 2024 7:07:25 PM
Manolo prepares for the dinner...eager to see what hiroshi’s response is going to be
Gnubert Glitterdust (Wade) AC: 20 T: 14 F: 18 R: 9 F: 14 W: 11 HPS: 47/51 CMD: 6 Wednesday May 22nd, 2024 7:51:02 PM
Gnubert grumbles about waiting on Hiroshi and trudges back to the inn. Gnubert cleans his surcoat, and gear. When it is time he follows the others back to dinner.
Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11 ( 15 Mage Armor)(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 14/36 Thursday May 23rd, 2024 12:41:27 AM
Ash just nods when Loryn replies to the dinner. He'll head back and get ready.
Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.): ac:20/15/16. temp/hp:63/50. icy disposition, false life d20+6=10 ; d10+7=13 ; Thursday May 23rd, 2024 1:00:01 AM
(Knowledge [Arcana]: 10, typical.)
Mortimer is disappointed he doesn't spot a sensor. He'd love to catch them in the act. Oh well, he'll have to wait a little longer for a proper excuse to be smug.
He prepares for dinner. He decides to go ahead and fortify himself if the evening goes sideways ... or in case of a food fight. After muttering of a few necromantic words of power, his skin turns a lighter shade of pale and his features appear slightly more severe. (Mortimer casts False Life. +13 temp. hit points. Duration: 7 hours.)
DM Mitch and Hugh Crypt maze Thursday May 23rd, 2024 8:13:39 AM Torry returns home late to learn of the appointment and figures their patron will take it well considering he did say they could back out at any time. Hank points out they are going to give him what amounts to what might be the only clue in the whole world and with respect to the loot is interested in a composite longbow. Loryn thinks that dinner always sounds good and then assists in identifying items. He points out that the total worth of all of it is about 30000 gp so after selling it at the catacombs they’ll get 15000 gp and that amounts to about 2,100 gp each but they can figure it more after dinner. Loryn personally isn’t really interested in any of the items. Manolo prepares for dinner, eager to see Hiroshi’s responses Gnubert grumbles about waiting on Hiroshi and gets his surcoat and gear clean. Ash nods in response to the dinner invitation and plans to head back and get ready. Mortimer is disappointed he doesn’t spot a sensor and then fortifies himself with magic in case either things go sideways or there happens to be a foodfight
The time comes for the party to once again be led up to the top floor for a grand meal. Hiroshi refuses to talk business over the meal once again, instead telling stories of past adventures and item’s he’s tracked down. After the meal winds down and the plates are taken away he leans back with a satisfied sigh before speaking. ”I had expected to hear from you through the conch shell, but since I didn’t I imagine things went well but you didn’t find the box.”
Torrynashkabbeth (Nick) HP:40/40 AC:21 F11: R12 W:15 Thursday May 23rd, 2024 11:48:13 AM
"Oh yeah....the shell thing. I forgot about that." Mumbled a decidedly embarrassed Torryn. [b]"I guess I was more worried about Spot."[b] She added defensively.
Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11 ( 15 Mage Armor)(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 14/36 Thursday May 23rd, 2024 1:18:42 PM
"Understandably so Torryn. A loyal friend to you like Spot is an obvious choice of your time and mind. " Ash says to his friend.
Turning to Hiroshi, Ash's face is devoid of any emotion. " Fair warning, I am a bit riled up. A few of us actually are. So, to begin, I'm not a big fan of being fed tidbits of food. I'm a big boy, give me the whole buffet. Catch my drift? Anyway, Minotaur leader of some cult keeps bugging us, telling us to not find the box, or not turn it over. Also happened to threaten us when I explained we don't like being kept in the dark. So.. all cards on the table, djins, minotaur, slavery, and all the dark around the facts... what are we dealing with, what's your reason for this, are they djinn, what's this secret sect of protectors and why do they want us to keep things as is? Why is this all secret and suspect, because at a certain point, our lives go in the line of danger all while we are being intentionally kept in the dark."
Hank (Tanner) -- AC 24/12/22 -- CMD 24 -- HP 70 Thursday May 23rd, 2024 2:06:01 PM
Hank takes one last bite before the attendants remove the platters and cutlery. As he chews he motions with his thumb to Ash, and gives a thumbs-up.
AC 13 HP 45/45 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K d20+6=26 ; Thursday May 23rd, 2024 3:09:49 PM
Loryn takes a casual sip of wine as Ash begins and the gnome immediately misses Drack. Diplomacy would probably get them more information then not so veiled accusations and while Loryn had a silver tongue, it was just geared a much different way and that would probably not be so useful here.
He decides to give it a whirl and adds some color, "The Conch did not seem the appropriate method for the meeting that we, as the Argentium, wanted to have. Much more of a face to face meeting like well rounded adults. Ash has valid points and things we discussed, but as a bottom line to what we have discovered about the Box, is that we are no longer going to be actively or even passively seeking its location. There is enough evidence to warrant that the Box itself is an imprisoning device and an order of sorts is determined that it can never be put forth to that business again. We are excepting that and encourage you to do the same. Let the Box remain lost."
Diplomacy 26
Active Spell: Empower rod 2/3 Acid Ray 8/8 30' range 1d6+3 Innate Used: 1st lvl: 5/7 2nd lvl: 4/6 3rd lvl: 4/4
Manolo (Michael A) -- AC 21/17/16 -- CMD 20 -- HP 37/43 Thursday May 23rd, 2024 7:47:26 PM
Manolo will let the others speak.
Gnubert Glitterdust (Wade) AC: 20 T: 14 F: 18 R: 9 F: 14 W: 11 HPS: 47/51 CMD: 6 Thursday May 23rd, 2024 10:51:37 PM
Gnubert purposely doesn't eat, in fact when dinner is being served he places his cutlery on his plate in an "X" shape signifying he is finished. The young Gnome casts his gaze around the room wondering what surprises might await the party.
As Ash and Loryn begin speaking Gnubert slides forward in his chair, his feet dangling like a child's (which infuriates him this evening) and waits to interject but hid friends seem to cover both sides of the argument well, leaving little else to say
DM Mitch and Hugh Crypt maze Friday May 24th, 2024 8:37:34 AM Torry says she forgot about the shell thing being more concerned about how Spot was doing. Ash is riled up and says a few of them are and the accuses Hiroshi of holding out on what he knows of the box and then asks what they are dealing with, what is the reason for Hiroshi doing this, are the order djinn, what is the secret sect of protectors and why do they want things kept as is and why is everything secret and suspect implying they are being intentionally kept in the dark while risking their lives. Hank chews a final bite of food and gives Ash a thumbs up Loryn misses Drack as he sips his wine during Ash’s tirade. The gnome takes a more diplomatic approach explaining the conch didn’t seem appropriate as the Argentum preferred a face to face meeting. He explains that they no longer wish to seek the box as it is an imprisoning device and encourages Hiroshi to do the same. Manolo let’s the others speak. Gnubert purposely does not eat and casts his gaze around the room. As Ash and Lorryn speak he slides forward and waits to interject but between the two of them everything is covered.
Hiroshi seems more amused than angered by Ash’s insinuations, a bright twinkle sparkling in an eye. ”Ho ho ho, I’m not sure what dark secrets you are implying I have. I have been fully honest with you and shared all of the information I have. You are right of course that it is full of holes, but I thought it was fairly clear from the start that this was the nature of the job. We’re chasing ancient history and lost artifacts, piecing together things from fragments of fragments of information. It took me months to confirm the Treasure Box of Svengaxi was ever a real thing and not some ancient rumor or fiction.
It is obvious that in your hunt from the spire you have learned far more as to what is going on then I. The box is a tool for imprisoning things you say? That could be potentially alarming depending on the specifics.
Let us do this. As they say, the devil is in the details, so let's walk through everything we have as a group. Tell me everything about your search and what you found, leaving out no details. The smallest thing could be important! In turn I will walk you through my own research and show you what scant documentation I have. Once we have reviewed all the information we have it’ll be easier for all involved to decide how best to proceed, whether that be myself continuing on my own, you continuing to help me, or all of us abandoning the hunt and trusting this secret order to protect this dangerous artifact.”
Hiroshi will get up from the table and invite anyone interested to join him at a longer table in the back of the room that stores a variety of tools and carefully preserved documents. The documents are cracked, smudged, badly damaged, and in ancient writing styles. Linguistics or Knowledge: History 15 to follow along in Hiroshi’s explanation and examination (or other skills if you can convince me they apply honestly) - Highlight to display spoiler: { The documents are mostly in common, just in a very archaic writing style that’s hard to follow. He walks you through how he first stumbled across a mention of a powerful artifact box with the picture he showed you before in a forgotten corner of a forgotten archive in Plateau city. Curiosity piqued, he kept his eyes open for further mentions and only years later found follow up documents (in terrible shape and barely holding together) mentioning Spire Armory securing the incredible artifact known as the Box of Svengali and a barely legible description of it’s properties. Months of work later he confirmed vague mentions of a Spire Armory that existed a few hundred years ago in a travelog. The author was traveling from Plateau City over land to Thistleport placing the armory somewhere in the area.
It basically lines up with everything he said when he hired the group. With how vague and fragmentary it is it’s honestly no wonder he needed local expertise to narrow things down further, and the description of the box is so damaged you can only make out the details he shared of it producing strange orbs and enough details to match the faded picture and link all the clues together.}
Torrynashkabbeth (Nick) HP:40/40 AC:21 F11: R12 W:15 Friday May 24th, 2024 9:45:47 AM
~~ All the stuff on the table looked technical and held no interest for Torryn. Hiroshi seemed nice enough, but that wasn’t sufficient to motivate her to change her opinion. Seeking the box was not in itself a good thing that would aid others. If the box was that good, others would most certainly have found and used it by now. Moreover, if it was that good, why hadn’t he said so? He seemed honest enough in admitting he was an avid collector, but she wasn’t and collecting for collecting’s sake seemed a waste of time when more positive and helpful pursuits could be undertaken. Her problem was, how to articulate all that and have it carry some significance. She felt she’d just come across as a childish girl.
She kept quiet and crossed her legs whilst still seated at the first table whilst she did her best to meditate and ponder the matter in more depth, all the while someone else would find the words to say what she could not.
~~~ Spells etc: 5/day: 2 used. Mage Armour.
Fey Spark: used0/6 1st lvl: used 2/5 Lay on Hands: used 2/5 Stunning Fist: used 0/4 Smite Evil: used 0/1 ~~~
Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.): ac:20/15/16. temp/hp:63/50. icy disposition, false life d20+2=5 ; Friday May 24th, 2024 12:52:03 PM
(Linguistics: 5 ... hate you so much die roller!)
Never mind being fluent in two of the oldest known languages (Draconic and old High Woldian), Mortimer is having trouble making heads or tails of Hiroshi's collection of ancient writings.
Mortimer appreciates how open and transparent Hiroshi is being with him. What issues he had about keeping things secret, he pulls out a scroll case and takes out the papers they found in the vault.
"Oi, then ya will appreciate our findin's from the vault. All the loot was nicked long ago, includin' the box. This is what we found." Mortimer sets the papers on the table with the rest.
Hank (Tanner) -- AC 24/12/22 -- CMD 24 -- HP 70 Friday May 24th, 2024 1:18:32 PM "Nerd alert!" he thought to himself. Hank waits to allow Hiroshi time to examine what they have brought and respond to their earlier questions, because obviously he would need to connect the dots for them.
Manolo (Michael A) -- AC 21/17/16 -- CMD 20 -- HP 37/43 d20=4 ; Friday May 24th, 2024 9:46:08 PM
Manolo takes a look at the symbols but he could not make sense of anything. He looks helpless, not understanding any of it. Linguistics 5
AC 13 HP 45/45 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K d20+10=15 ; Saturday May 25th, 2024 10:25:24 AM
Loryn hops down from his chair and heads over to the other table, frowning upon arrival until he spies a small footstool to bring over to provide enough height.
Loryn knew that at this juncture, Ash would likely be the most valuable member of their group. The Wizard was well versed in a wide variety of knowledge. For himself, though, he had studied the planes and if this Box indeed imprisoned an extra planar being, perhaps that knowledge would be of some assistance as well.
Knowledge Planes 15 Casts Comprehend Languages
Active Spell: Comprehend Languages
Empower rod 2/3 Acid Ray 8/8 30' range 1d6+3 Innate Used: 1st lvl: 4/7 2nd lvl: 4/6 3rd lvl: 4/4
DM Mitch and Hugh Crypt maze Saturday May 25th, 2024 12:58:03 PM
(Comprehend languages works you may read (and/or share) the spoiler stuff)
AC 13 HP 45/45 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K Sunday May 26th, 2024 8:57:52 AM
Loryn arches an eyebrow as re reads the documents, the spell working better than he expected and the gnome is delighted that the trust he had put in Hiroshi on being upfront was well placed and now proven. Loryn will essentially re-read the documents, this time aloud to the entire group concluding that his line of thinking is that the orbs the Box produces captures and thus enslaves a djinn.
"There might be a reason to find this Box after all." He further muses aloud. "If the box produces Orbs, as in more than one, there could be a host of Djinn imprisoned within. If that is the case, or could be the case,...Hmmm I think it might warrant further investigation."
contents of Spoiler shared: The documents are mostly in common, just in a very archaic writing style that’s hard to follow. He walks you through how he first stumbled across a mention of a powerful artifact box with the picture he showed you before in a forgotten corner of a forgotten archive in Plateau city. Curiosity piqued, he kept his eyes open for further mentions and only years later found follow up documents (in terrible shape and barely holding together) mentioning Spire Armory securing the incredible artifact known as the Box of Svengali and a barely legible description of it’s properties. Months of work later he confirmed vague mentions of a Spire Armory that existed a few hundred years ago in a travelog. The author was traveling from Plateau City over land to Thistleport placing the armory somewhere in the area.
It basically lines up with everything he said when he hired the group. With how vague and fragmentary it is it’s honestly no wonder he needed local expertise to narrow things down further, and the description of the box is so damaged you can only make out the details he shared of it producing strange orbs and enough details to match the faded picture and link all the clues together.
Gnubert Glitterdust (Wade) AC: 20 T: 14 F: 18 R: 9 F: 14 W: 11 HPS: 47/51 CMD: 6 d20+2=3 ; Sunday May 26th, 2024 7:09:37 PM
Gnubert shakes his head and mentally curses the fact he was not as smart as the rest of his family. The cleric wishes he had memorized some spells to help but they were mostly combat spells, and therefore unlikely to help. The gnome looks over the documents (Intelligence DC 3 wow, impressive) and nothing makes sense.
Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11 ( 15 Mage Armor)(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 14/36 d20+10=26 ; d20+15=31 ; d20+15=19 ; d20+15=25 ; d3=3 ; d20+10=27 ; d20+6=18 ; Sunday May 26th, 2024 9:33:44 PM
Ash reads the words on the papers(linguistics 26), but listens as Loryn tells everyone what the words say. Ash tries to recall anything that can fit into a blank spot.
DM Mitch and Hugh Crypt maze Monday May 27th, 2024 11:20:35 AM Torry thinks about trying to articulate why she still objects to continuing the treasure hunt and ends up meditating on the matter in depth while relying on someone else to find the words to say. Mortimer is having trouble making sense of Hiroshi’s papers but appreciates their patron’s openness so he no longer feels like things are being hidden from them he shares the papers they found. Hank waits for Hiroshi to examine what they brought and respond to their earlier questions in order to get the dots connected. Manolo cannot make sense of the symbols. Loryn figures Ash would be their best bet towards having a breakthrough on their end but he casts comprehend language and is able to make headway. He suggests that there is potentially a reason to locate the box afterall being that the orbs the box produces could potentially enslave an army of Djinn and that further investigation is actually warranted. Gnubert curses not being as smart as the rest of his family as he struggles to make heads or tails of Hiroshi’s documents Ash reads the words on the pages but listens while Loryn tells everyone what the words say. He attempts to fill in any gaps with his own knowledge.
Ash, Loryn, and Hiroshi go over everything together and have a little confab. With his extensive knowledge in various topics Ash is pretty sure he knows what the artifact does, though of course it’s all speculation from vague descriptions. The artifact itself seems to have the sole purpose of creating these orbs via an unknown method. Perhaps it just generates them over time, perhaps material or a ritual is required - Ash suspects the former from what he’s read. These orbs then must be what enslave the Djinn. The notes they found indicate they cannot drag Djinn here from other planes (Quote: “and though I know of no way he (Warlord Kronk) could summon such a creature to use it on should he manage it his power can only grow.”), so they likely must directly target a Djinn already here to enslave, perhaps also trap them on the plane where they are captured at.
Hiroshi agrees with Ashes’ assessment and overall it paints a fairly grim picture of the artifacts use. To the average person it’s just a fancy box, useless unless they meet a Djinn which is fairly rare. A powerful wizard though could do all kinds of damage with it, dragging Djinn to this plan and enslaving them over time, potentially building up an army of them, all enslaved to his will and able to do just about anything with them.
At the end of the discussion, once everyone returns to their seats Hiroshi addresses the group. ”I can see why you reacted so strongly. The papers you found are very enlightening and remarkably well preserved - perhaps some sort of enchantment on the vault? They paint a fairly grim picture should the artifact ever be discovered and used by those of evil intent. Now the question is what to do about it, and if we trust this Order to protect it.
From everything you’ve told me we can make some educated guesses as to the Order’s capabilities. You mention they seem to be predicting where you will show up, and I believe asked why they don’t have the artifact secure themselves if they have such scrying power. I suspect that the artifact itself has protections against being located magically. Other major artifacts I have researched over the years, and if one is going to be enslaving Djinn who’s relatives would love to track down and free their brethren it seems an obvious enchantment to introduce. Indeed, trying to divine the box’s location is one of the first things I did when I found the picture I showed you.
That leads to problems though. If the artifact is lost and the Order merely accosts anyone they predict will search for it all it takes is one person with magical protections against divination magic searching for the box for it to be returned to circulation. Potentially just someone stumbling across it with no idea what it is might also foil the Order’s efforts.
I, personally, do not believe the situation is tenable long term. I’ve heard of many dark artifacts, found a few of my own in my day, and trusting that long lost artifacts will remain so rarely works out. Whether it be months, years, or decades someone will find the Treasure Box of Svengaxi, and it will be pure chance if they are virtuous or not. Better that it be found now, by those with good intent, and either secured, locked away under powerful protections, or destroyed, if such destruction is possible. It is simply too dangerous to hope that it will remain lost forever, even with someone actively trying to keep it that way.
So I ask you, will you continue this quest with me?”
Torrynashkabbeth (Nick) HP:40/40 AC:21 F11: R12 W:15 Monday May 27th, 2024 11:37:04 AM
"no." Said Toryn quietly, but firmly.
"Your argument is flawed. let's say that it is a fact that the box will be found at some point. Let's also say that there's a chance it may be by someone with evil intent. How does finding it now and presenting it to you actually alter that? It is very well secreted at the moment. No one knows exactly how well, but sufficiently so that it has stayed hidden for a very long time. If we were to unearth it, that knowledge might - and in all likelihood - will, quickly spread thereby enhancing the danger to the box and those poor djinn. Given that the box is very well secreted and given that it has a cadre of capable protectors, I see no need for us to change that at this time. Were there a more immediate and direct threat to the safety of the djinn, then yes, we'd feel obligated to act, but that patently isn't the case." She smiled apologetically in conclusion. It was never nice having to let someone down, particularly when they'd been nothing but good to you, but she could not ratify the search for the box with the tenets of being a Sacred Dancer.
Manolo (Michael A) -- AC 21/17/16 -- CMD 20 -- HP 37/43 d20=3 ; Monday May 27th, 2024 7:23:44 PM
Manolo stutters and mumbles before shouting/asking not nicely. "We encountered one of them ! He said something about a prophecy! Do you know any connections to a prophecy?"
Diplomacy 10
Gnubert Glitterdust (Wade) AC: 20 T: 14 F: 18 R: 9 F: 14 W: 11 HPS: 47/51 CMD: 6 Monday May 27th, 2024 7:31:14 PM "I am not sure how we can truly trust either party in this. Both claim to be in it for some good, but as my dad used to say, Ultimate power corrupts ultimately." Gnubert shrugs still not quite understanding what the heck in going on.
Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11 ( 15 Mage Armor)(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 14/36 Monday May 27th, 2024 11:19:28 PM
Ash doesn't give any answer, but does pat Toryn on the shoulder to show he supports her.
Hank (Tanner) -- AC 24/12/22 -- CMD 24 -- HP 70 Monday May 27th, 2024 11:23:58 PM
Hank shrugs. "I think destroying an evil artifact would count as community service, but I'm the new guy to the group."
DM Mitch and Hugh Crypt maze Tuesday May 28th, 2024 7:37:08 AM Torry tells Hiroshi definitively no explaining that his argument is not good enough absent an immediate and direct threat to the box given it has both a well-hidden current unknown location and cadre of capable defenders. Manolo stutters and mumbles before asking about how one of them said something about a prophecy and if Hiroshi knows of any connections to prophecy. Gnubert says how he is unsure how the Argentum can trust either party as his dad used to say Ulimate power corrupts ultimately still not understanding what the heck is going on. Ash pats Torry on the shoulder in agreement Hank says that he would think destroying an evil artifact would count as community service
To Torry Hiroshi says, “How confident are you that the order of zealots you came across are capable protectors? Do you think they could defend the box from any comers or do you think their leader’s anger is a liability that could be exploited by a cunning adversary? You say you aren’t obligated to act outside an immediate and direct threat but are you comfortable in security by obscurity combined with an order led by some sort of minotaur with obvious rage issues being the box’s only line of defense? Let me assure you that should you reconsider and recover the box for me, it will be safe behind fortifications, wards, spells, and even powerful guardians. No one will merely stumble across it blindly should the box end up in my collection or that of another collector I know with even better protections than my own who shares my sensibilities.”
To Manolo he says, “I’d have to check my collection and get back to you regarding your question. Prophecy tends to be vague and my own research in connection to the box said nothing about any prophecy as I have shown you. I'll tell you what. You reconsider my offer as Torrynashkabbeth seems to have given a definitive no and as a token of good faith will open my entire library of documentation related to prophecy open to your group. It may take me a little bit of time to transfer the documents to a secure facility local to Windhorne Hamlet that you can peruse but once there you can browse to your heart’s content. ”
To Gnubert Hiroshi says, “I have been nothing but open and honest with you in all our dealings. I seek the treasure box as a collector’s item and it is in my best interest that it never be used again. Aside from one private showing to fellow collectors where I may bestow it as a gift to a fellow collector with better security than my own who shares my sensibilities and would never use the box himself nor want it used for evil purposes should the box end up in my possession or said fellow collector’s possession it will never again see the light of day. This is far stronger protection than what we have now with security by obscurity and some ragtag group of djinn blooded zealots.”
Hiroshi says to Hank, “I don’t think the artifact is evil in and of itself just has the potential to be used with evil intent as the journal I found related to the spire armory said the box didn’t radiate evil. Frankly, such items tend to be nigh impossible to destroy, and if it was possible this secret order would have likely done so. Sealing it away securely, behind the most powerful protections possible, is the safest, most likely course to succeed.”
To the group as a whole he has one last thing to say. ”I understand your hesitation, as this is a lot bigger than initially thought. For myself though this is nothing new. I’ve been pursuing powerful magics and lost artifacts far longer than most of you have been alive. I have dealt with far darker, more dangerous artifacts and successfully removed them from circulation before. Your expertise and local knowledge will greatly help, but I will pursue this regardless.”
Torrynashkabbeth (Nick) HP:40/40 AC:21 F11: R12 W:15 Tuesday May 28th, 2024 8:16:27 AM
"Whilst I am sure that you have indeed been successful, I'm afraid that your arguments again fail to stack up adequately. These amazing, super=powerful wards and defences will most likely be superior to any currently in existence, but then.....you are going to reveal it's location to others. What then if you are blackmailed or manipulated into circumventing those same defences? Or your friend is? Anything is possible and it seems to be that if this box has successfully evaded detection by someone, even with your undoubted skills, it is safe enough. As to the minotaur, everyone has their faults. He may not be the ideal protector, but he isn't evil and is acting for the best interests of others. It feels wholly wrong to go against that. Well, it does to me." She explained, before appending a 'sorry' at the end. She didn't like letting anyone down and Mr Hiroshi had been very kind. Still, she'd made up her mind and believed that it was the correct decision.
Manolo (Michael A) -- AC 21/17/16 -- CMD 20 -- HP 37/43 Tuesday May 28th, 2024 11:28:07 AM
Manolo thinks ' We are in a pickle, we have raging zealots who seem kind and good hearted but very violent bent on keeping a relic out of anyone's hands at any price and methods necessary. On the other pickle, We have a mysterious person who collects dangerous and powerful objects for fun'. Manolo taps his head for a few moments. Hearing what the others have to say.
AC 13 HP 45/45 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K Tuesday May 28th, 2024 1:15:38 PM
Loryn was not liking this much either. He was starting to feel like simply flipping a coin and Warrd figure it out. Problem was, he didn't put much faith in the God of Luck. he had one piece that bothered him the most, or rather swayed his thoughts on the matter the most,
"The current situation of obscurity is wrapped around the idea that a member of the protecting group sacrificed himself to put the Box into obscurity. I'm no Archmage or Magus, but the that type of act is usually far more powerful of a ward of protection than any spells of guardians we might put forth. It's not like the Box is sitting on a shelf hoping nobody finds it. And if we are right, that it was a Djinn that did this, to dumb it down to security by obscurity is an adolescent argument. No. I am of the mind that this is something we should not be prying into and bringing more attention to. We..." The gnome gestures to the group,
"have no wards or divinational protections and are becoming more and more known regionally all of the time. By our involvement to locate a box which should not be located, welcomes outside attention to the very thing. We are out until such time as we are needed, and that need, is not finding the box."
Active Spell: Comprehend Languages
Empower rod 2/3 Acid Ray 8/8 30' range 1d6+3 Innate Used: 1st lvl: 4/7 2nd lvl: 4/6 3rd lvl: 4/4
Hank (Tanner) -- AC 24/12/22 -- CMD 24 -- HP 70 Tuesday May 28th, 2024 4:43:56 PM
Hank clears his throat. "You know, you could always hire criers to spread the word that the box has been found and you successfully destroyed the evil magic, and that additional details can be found in your upcoming memoir. Nobody's going to look for something that they think is gone..."
Gnubert Glitterdust (Wade) AC: 20 T: 14 F: 18 R: 9 F: 14 W: 11 HPS: 47/51 CMD: 6 Tuesday May 28th, 2024 7:18:05 PM
Gnubert looks with pride at his companions. Their ability to so clearly state their positions so passionately and yet so controlled amazes the young cleric. "I stand with my friends sir. I believe we have given you our answer." Gnubert stands, and prepares to leave.
Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11 ( 15 Mage Armor)(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 14/36 Tuesday May 28th, 2024 8:51:31 PM
"We're opposed to a relic that enslaves and I feel like Torry has expressed her stance, and she won't be enslaved to another point of view. She's entitled to her stance, and frankly I commend her for being so steadfast with it. So I believe you have your answer."
Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.): ac:20/15/16. temp/hp:63/50. icy disposition, false life Tuesday May 28th, 2024 10:27:05 PM
Mortimer stares on ... motionless and unresponsive. He's fine with the others being vocal with their opinions. It's almost humorous, he thinks, he can hear a chuckle deep within. A half smile briefly forms on his lips with the mental musings of, what petty concerns of mortals ... that's a strange thought to think, he ponders. This Hiroshi assumes he's the eldest in this room; the thought almost makes him want to laugh. Mortimer doesn't however, he's becoming concerned by these intrusive thoughts. They sound like him, but not. A sudden burdening weight from the depths of his soul makes him feel sick with experience. The gloom of unending, restless existence through the prospective of a living soul. It was unbearable and Mortimer quietly takes a seat to wait out the funk of despair.
DM Mitch and Hugh Crypt maze Wednesday May 29th, 2024 8:44:03 PM Torry tells Hiroshi his arguments fail to stack up properly as although his protections sound impressive he intends to show the location of the box to others which would open the door to potential blackmail or manipulation. She further explains that if the box has evaded detection of someone of Hiroshi’s skills then it is safe enough. She also says that the minotaur may not be the perfect protector but he isn’t evil and acting in the best interests of others. Manolo thinks to himself about the predicament that they are in and continues to listen to what other people have to say. Loryn was starting to feel like flipping a coin and let Warrd sort it out but he didn’t much care for the God of Luck. He suggests the current situation is more than just security through obscurity because a member of the order may have sacrificed themself to put the box into obscurity. He also suggests that the group has no wards or divination protections and that as their group is becoming more well known it would bring unwelcome attention to the box if they continued the search. Hank suggests Hiroshi hire a crier to tell the world that the box was destroyed as no one is going to look for something they think is gone. Gnubert is proud of his companion’s ability to state their positions both passionately yet controlled amazes the young cleric and says he stands with his friends and that they have given their answer. Ash says that they are opposed to a relic that enslaves and Torry has expressed her stance that she won’t be enslaved to another point of view and that she’s steadfast with that and that is his answer. Mortimer is quiet and somewhat lost in the funk of his own thoughts.
Hiroshi has been very patient and only showed jollyness or seriousness up to now, but it seems the party’s constant questioning of his morality and/or capability has successfully gotten under his skin. “You think so little of me that I would endanger the box willy nilly by showing it off to thugs and hooligans? As I said the reveal would be a private affair amongst collectors such as myself. Between us we enshrine a variety of rare, dangerous and powerful artifacts and have been at it for longer than you’ve been alive. The collector community is one built on mutual respect and trust and no single member of the community would stoop so low as to steal from another.
Our community could do so much more than hide and hoard ancient treasures. You act like I’m arbitrarily showing this off, like I’m acting only in my own self interest and not for others. With this I could gain influence, sway them to be more active in helping muggles. Our elder will be leading a meeting soon and the protections on his collection rival anything else on any plane! I would ensure the box vanished from history and greatly sway the others simultaneously.”
Horishi takes a deep breath and lets it out in a huff. ”You are obviously set against continuing the search. That is your choice. I will find others to help me and continue it without you. Though you raise some valid objections to the hunt and alternative solutions I find them no more convincing then you find my own arguments. Should you change your mind later, leave a message for me here and I will get it. For now I bid you goodnight.”
He pushes back from his chair, gives a polite bow, and starts to leave the room.
Hank (Tanner) -- AC 24/12/22 -- CMD 24 -- HP 70 Wednesday May 29th, 2024 8:59:04 PM "Well, now that we know the artifact will be super-duper protected, and kept from bad guys, and we will be rewarded, AND this could be the start of a very lucrative string of contract work with this organization... Can we continue this job? Even if all you care about is protecting this village, this is a potential win for everyone."
AC 13 HP 45/45 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K Wednesday May 29th, 2024 9:31:22 PM
Posting in the morning
Torrynashkabbeth (Nick) HP:40/40 AC:21 F11: R12 W:15 Thursday May 30th, 2024 5:39:59 AM
No." Torryn answered quietly. She stood and walked gracefully towards the door, but stopped and turned. this time addressing Hiroshi.
"Think about what you just said. You want this box to elevate your position amongst your peers. This, arguably the greatest prize ever attained by 'collectors' will disappear. Disappear for how long before the need to prove you actually succeeded reasserts itself? Your arguments are full of holes. I stand by my conviction that it is best left where it is. At least for now. Thank you again for your kind hospitality. Good night." So saying she turned and left.
Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11 ( 15 Mage Armor)(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 14/36 Thursday May 30th, 2024 7:29:03 AM
"I grew up in the upper crust of society, people who are "thugs and hooligans" can also have money and be the "finest collectors". Sure Hiroshi, you seem honest and good, but that whole.room of collectors isn't accounted for and any one of them can be exactly what we're protecting the relic from"
AC 13 HP 45/45 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K Thursday May 30th, 2024 8:36:39 AM
Posting in the morning
Hank (Tanner) -- AC 24/12/22 -- CMD 24 -- HP 70 Thursday May 30th, 2024 11:03:32 AM
Hank listens to the words of his fellow party members, then looks at Hiroshi while shrugging and making an apologetic motion with his hands. As if to say, Sorry, my group has spoken.
Gnubert Glitterdust (Wade) AC: 20 T: 14 F: 18 R: 9 F: 14 W: 11 HPS: 47/51 CMD: 6 Thursday May 30th, 2024 12:45:54 PM "Hmmm elder, muggles, sway...sounds like you have a 1% club. Interesting..." Gnubert opens the door and steps out.
AC 13 HP 45/45 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K Thursday May 30th, 2024 4:54:26 PM Well that went south quickly though Loryn had to admit he was unsure why it took such a quick turn. The meeting was quickly dissolved and Loryn was just as conflicted as when it started. If anything, Hiroshi was now even more determined to find this Box, thus inevitably turning to someone else, possibly here in Windhorne to assist who would clash with the current proctectorate cult, leading to violence and that violence could see itself taking place within Windhorne. Yes the gnomes spinning mind did not like where things were left and where things were going at all.
Yet, there was no good solution that he could fathom.
Loryn remains at the dinner table, pours himself another small glass and leans back into the chair exhaling and taking in the flicker of a candles flame.
Active Spell: Comprehend Languages
Empower rod 2/3 Acid Ray 8/8 30' range 1d6+3 Innate Used: 1st lvl: 4/7 2nd lvl: 4/6 3rd lvl: 4/4
Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.): ac:20/15/16. temp/hp:63/50. icy disposition, false life Thursday May 30th, 2024 7:36:34 PM "That went as well as expected, yeah," he remarks in an indifferent and distracted tone. The heaviness he felt throughly crushed any concerns about the displeasure of ancient beings of power.
There wasn't much difference between Hiroshi and himself. Mortimer was a collector or sorts. Under his bed is box of graven mementos that he had stolen during his years as a gravedigger. Most are worthless trinkets: lockets, rings, little bits and bobs left by the family; having only sentimental value. The living have no idea how these things torment the soul. In life, needs of the flesh is like an armor of justification against the regrets, failings and wickedness of life. When shed of that flesh, the soul is defenseless against their guilt. Hell has no need for demons, souls willingly cast themselves into the flames. The dead want no memory of their lives. So Mortimer removed every reminder he could. To allow the soul that chance for a peaceful oblivion.
"Let's go, yeah. Feelin' a bit knackered, I am."
DM Hugh & Mitch - A letter Thursday May 30th, 2024 8:57:30 PM Hank suggests that now that they know the artifact will be super-duper protected and kept from the bad guys and that they will be rewarded and that this could be the start of a lucrative string of contract work that could be a win for everyone. Torry says no, suggesting that Hiroshi’s arguments continue to be full of holes and leaves Ash says he grew up in the upper crust of society and that thugs and hooligans can have money and fine collections and while Hiroshi seems honest and good the whole room of collectors isn’t accounted for. Hank shrugs at Hiroshi given the rest of his groups firm resolve to the turn the man down. Gnubert remarks that Hiroshi has a 1% club and steps out. Loryn thinks that things went south quickly and he was unsure why things took a quick turn. He was just as conflicted as when they started and now Hiroshi is even more determined to find this Box which could lead to more violent with the protectorate that could potentially negatively impact Windhorne. There was no good solution he could fathom so he pours himself a drink. Mortimer reflects he is in some ways similar and the nature of death. Also he’s kind of tired.
The next morning the Argentum have a messenger at their door.
He gives them a letter and leaves
The letter reads: Dear Argentum, I assume this will fall on mostly deaf ears and part of me wonders why bother when agents are so easily replaced.
However part of me still feels the need to better explain to you certain realities. Collections are sacrosanct. The collecting community is more than just an exclusive club, it is something you are born into and as such each of us is bound to the others by ties of blood and magic. It is these strong ties that prevent us from acting against each other. As Ash observed the upper crust of society even among the noble races can be filled with thugs and hooligans who may have money and fine collections but we are better than that and I’m sorry that you don’t believe me. I had hoped to be able to show you one day but as things stand now I'm not sure if that will ever come to pass.
Furthermore, using the box to gain influence among my people is a one shot deal. I can’t just pull it out of my collection whenever is convenient because in order to gain influence with it I would have to give it to the elder holding the meeting himself and even then if enough other collectors have grander gifts then my gesture is meaningless. However I’m willing to part with such an exotic artifact from my own collection if it means there is a chance things will be better for everyone, not just the collecting community. The majority of you probably still don’t believe me even if Hank is interested but the offer still stands.
Yours Truly, Hiroshi Katsu
Torrynashkabbeth (Nick) HP:40/40 AC:21 F11: R12 W:15 Friday May 31st, 2024 4:54:29 AM
Torryn read through the letter when it came to her. She shrugged.
"Strange, is it not? We were told that we could, at any time elect to withdraw from this arrangement, yet he moves Heaven and Earth to have us again do his bidding. Personally, I am not minded to do so. His arguments still smack of elitism and very little of altruism. Such is not the way of the Sacred Dancer." Having said her piece she returned outside to perform some 'dances'.
AC 13 HP 45/45 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K Friday May 31st, 2024 11:18:34 AM
Loryn finishes his last glass and after a few more moments exits to take a winding route home to Minerva's. Once there, he tries to unwind and set his troubled mind at ease in the kitchen. A bit of this, a dash of that and what happens if add this to that. Loryn dabbled in spice, herb and sweeteners the way other gnomes played with cogs, gears and illusions. Soon, relatively speaking, the trash was nearly full of failed baked goods and soups and the pantry was practically depleted and an assortment of cakes, breads, marinades and marmalades occupied nearly every square inch of every horizontal surface. Loryn smiled at the late nights work and departed for bed.
Loryn listens as the letter is read and knows where the brash youth of the Argentium are going to go with their thought train before it is boarded to depart. A smile and shake of his head is all he puts forth on the matter initially. "Might I suggest a return letter simply stating that then. 'As per our original agreement of postponing or even terminating our part in the search for the subject item, The Argentium is politely and respectfully doing so. Signed us'."
Loryn gives a smile to Torrynashkabbeth upon finishing his input or the matter and declares the kitchen open to all to enjoy what he was up to last night, "I must provide some caution however as I was in a tinkering kind of mood."
Once the team was at the main table Loryn offers up an additional thought, "I believe, whether we like it or not, that we are going to become entangled with the quest for and against the box in the future. Now I also believe our decision is correct, if not for all of the same reasons, but we came to it amicably to ourselves and that says a great deal about us I believe that the 'Collectors' are no more mortal noble than the minotaur is a minotaur and going forward it would serve us well to keep that in mind. We are not dealing with nobility, aristocrats or members of the Chancer Club. Mr Hiroshi Katsu intends to pursue this to its end and he will bring others into it. Those others will clash with the Minotaur and his group and I think it would serve us and more importantly, our community, to keep our eyes open going forward. this is not cause for me to change my mind, nor am I trying to change any of yours. I feel we should strive to become the heroes we wish to be. Heroes of the Wold, or of at least the lands around Windhorne. From there, we will be better suited to have our own thoughts and concerns about the box and much more heard and heeded."
Loryn sits back and shakes his head, "Sorry, that really came off as a speech, my mind tends to race and ramble on sometimes."
Empower rod 3/3 Acid Ray 8/8 30' range 1d6+3 Innate Used: 1st lvl: 7/7 2nd lvl: 6/6 3rd lvl: 4/4
Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11 ( 15 Mage Armor)(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 14/36 Friday May 31st, 2024 12:09:44 PM
Ash takes a bite of the food presented.. and smiles and grunts out a Yumm. He nods his like of the food to Loryn.
After Loryn speaks, Ash ponders for a few seconds before adding. "I feel Torryn and Loryn both speak from the same spot. Let's face it, we're the only ones we can all trust. We also have each other's backs and well being in mind. Maybe we continue this search, but don't turn it over to anyone. There's smarter people out there than a collection of rich collectors and a cult's word to protection. Maybe we finish this and bring the item to a neutral, more aligned with our views, type group. We have WLA members here, there's powerful adventuring groups all over the wold... a rich guy and a minotaur who likes to butt in aren't our only players in this game."
Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.): ac:20/15/16. temp/hp:63/50. icy disposition, false life Friday May 31st, 2024 3:43:48 PM
Mortimer, who had his eyes closed as he listened, opens them slowly and says jokingly, "You bein' paid by the word, sounds like."
Manolo (Michael A) -- AC 21/17/16 -- CMD 20 -- HP 37/43 Friday May 31st, 2024 5:28:41 PM
Manolo looks at everybody and hears everything. "Well... something is bound to happen, with us or without", he says and laughs and yawning after that.
AC 13 HP 45/45 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K Friday May 31st, 2024 9:45:55 PM
Posting in the morning
DM Mitch and Hugh Crypt maze Friday May 31st, 2024 10:13:00 PM Torry finds it strange how hard Hiroshi is trying to convince them to continue considering he said they could leave whenever. She thinks his arguments smack of elitism and have very little to do of altruism and she says such is not the way of the Sacred Dancer going outside to perform some dancing. Lorryn suggests a return letter saying that the Argentum is politely and respectfully postponing or terminating their search. He had spent the previous night baking up a storm and offers the fruits of his labor to his team. He suggests they keep their eyes open moving forward considering Hiroshi is undaunted and whoever he finds next will likely clash with the minotaur and his group. He says he doesn’t think they should change their mind rather continue to be the heroes they want to be. Ash takes a bite of the food presented and nods in approval. After Lorryn speaks Ash concurs that Torryn and Lorryn speak from the same spot. He suggests they consider finding the artificat themselves and then take them to a neutral third party such as the WLA or a higher powered adventuring group. Mortimer who had his eyes close as he listened opens them slowly and jokingly says “You being paid by the word, sounds like.” Manolo looks at everybody and hears everything. He reasons something is bound to happen with or without them.
Several days pass peacefully. On a particularly dreary day, one where it’s always raining but not really enough to use as an excuse not to go outside there is another knock at the door. Whomever opens it finds an unexpected guest on the other side - the Minotaur and the two pather beastfolk who cast slow at their first encounter. The minotaur is glaring at the door when it’s opened but smooths his expression to something more neutral once it’s opened. ”Parley?” he requests.
AC 13 HP 45/45 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K Sunday June 2nd, 2024 8:56:58 AM
The matte settled, Loryn spends a few days restocking the larder and at the WLA to see if the Argentium may be of some help.
Loryn, happened to be in the front room when the knock at the door occurs. Upon opening the door the gnome looks up, way up to find the minotaur looking back down. "Parley?" he questions back.
"Well I suppose we've eliminated vampires from thee list so...Please. Do come in and make yourself comfortable in the front room and I shall inform the Argentium that we have guests."
Loryn heads into the kitchen to retrieve a couple of pies and lets those in the dining and kitchen area know that the guardians are back and that means something is wrong.
Empower rod 3/3 Acid Ray 8/8 30' range 1d6+3 Innate Used: 1st lvl: 7/7 2nd lvl: 6/6 3rd lvl: 4/4
Gnubert Glitterdust (Wade) AC: 20 T: 14 F: 18 R: 9 F: 14 W: 11 HPS: 47/51 CMD: 6 Sunday June 2nd, 2024 9:24:20 PM
Gnubert listens to the others but says little. The cleric spends time contemplating the conversation, but says little, the mention of the WLA causes his ears to pick up and he nods his head at that suggestion.
Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11 ( 15 Mage Armor)(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 14/36 Sunday June 2nd, 2024 10:48:37 PM
Ash smiles and let's a snide giggle escape his mouth when he sees their guests.
He doesn't say a word, but crosses his arms and plans to listen.
Hank (Tanner) -- AC 24/12/22 -- CMD 24 -- HP 70 Monday June 3rd, 2024 1:47:16 AM
Hank sits and listens, because, why not?
Torrynashkabbeth (Nick) HP:40/40 AC:21 F11: R12 W:15 Monday June 3rd, 2024 5:25:08 AM
Torryn emerged clean and refreshed. It was, she felt, the perfect day for a run: to get outside and see the beauty of the day without other people distracting her. It wasn't a dank or dreary day to Torryn. It was all just weather and all weather could be appreciated. So it was she entered in a good mood and smiled pleasantly at the giant minotaur, for such he was to her.
"If you would be seated to talk, that would be greatly appreciated as it will spare so many of us having to crane our necks to look up." She said with a broad smile.
DM Mitch and Hugh Crypt maze Monday June 3rd, 2024 8:22:19 AM Loryn spends some time restocking the larder and visiting the WLA. When the knock on the door comes he tells his guests to come in and goes to retrieve a couple of pies while letting folks know the guardians are here and that means problems. Gnubert listens to the others but says little. The cleric spends time contemplating the conversation but says little. Hank is willing to listen because why not? Torry likes the current weather and asks the visitor to take a seat so they don’t have to look up at him.
The minotaur accepts whatever seat is offered, though hesitates if it doesn’t look particularly taur-safe. The twin panther sorceresses just shake their heads at the offer and stand silently flanking their spokesman.
There’s a long, awkward silence. One of the panther women nudges the minotaur. ”So I presume you followed my advice and abandoned the quest?” he ventures.
AC 13 HP 45/45 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K d20+6=26 ; Monday June 3rd, 2024 10:40:40 AM
Loyn puckers his lips at the refusal of the panther woman to try and make this less awkward, but what can you do. "We have postponed our search after some private discussions. Care for some pie and not to be presumptious, but you feel anxious. Best way to go is probably just to say it straight forward. What brings you by?"
[i]Diplomacy 26[/b]
Empower rod 3/3 Acid Ray 8/8 30' range 1d6+3 Innate Used: 1st lvl: 7/7 2nd lvl: 6/6 3rd lvl: 4/4
Hank (Tanner) -- AC 24/12/22 -- CMD 24 -- HP 70 Monday June 3rd, 2024 10:59:57 AM
Hank sits down and cross a leg over his knee. "We abandoned the quest, but not really because of your advice. Now, speak your piece. I will not break the laws of hospitality, but you are on my dren-list."
Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.): ac:20/15/16. temp/hp:63/50. icy disposition, false life d20+7=13 ; Monday June 3rd, 2024 12:38:51 PM
Mortimer attempts to lighten the mood in the room with a simple question directed at Hank.
"What law of 'ospitality is that? Yours truly," pointing to himself, " 'as been shown the door more times than I cares ta count! And not always on my own feet." With a wry grin, he continues, "I've been expectin' ya and I'm all ears to what ya came here ta say. So you're more than welcome ta be here. You should really try Loryn's pie; Really good, it is!"
(Diplomacy: 13.)
Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.): ac:20/15/16. temp/hp:63/50. icy disposition, false life Monday June 3rd, 2024 12:40:13 PM
(ooc: I forgot to say how much I dislike the dice roller.)
Sheriff Harley (Kim McCoy): Will someone step forward to post for Manolo this week? Monday June 3rd, 2024 1:35:51 PM
[OOC: Michael Albu is out for this week. Can one (or more) of you volunteer to sub in posting for Manolo this week? If so, cool. Also, make the header something like this:
Manolo (Kim sub for Michael A) -- AC 21/17/16 -- CMD 20 -- HP 37/43
- But instead of 'Kim' - put your name.
I'll delete this post once I see someone stepping in for him. Thanks in advance! --Sheriff Harley]
"We took no advice of yours, we just paused to figure our our gameplan. Now I doubt you came here to exchange recipes, so can we skip the pleasantries and just tell us why you're here."
Manolo (Nick K sub for Michael A) -- AC 21/17/16 -- CMD 20 -- HP 37/43 Monday June 3rd, 2024 2:53:13 PM
Manolo hung back, staying near to the wall in order to be overlooked. His self appointed job was to listen and observe: to try to read between the lines. So he said nothing.
"There's no need to be rude." Torryn admonished quietly. "Please, you are most welcome and yes, the pie is excellent." She informed the minotaur. "Ladies, you should also partake." She told the two panther women.
Gnubert Glitterdust (Wade) AC: 20 T: 14 F: 18 R: 9 F: 14 W: 11 HPS: 47/51 CMD: 6 Monday June 3rd, 2024 7:16:36 PM
Gnubert scowls at the minotaur. The cleric refuses to sit at the same table as the beast, and walks as far as he can from it. "Hospitality my foot! he murmurs more to himself than to anyone. The cleric's dislike of the beast can be easily read by all in the room.
DM Mitch and Hugh Crypt maze Tuesday June 4th, 2024 5:04:09 AM Loryn puckers his lips at the refusal of the panther women and then explains they have postponed their search after some private discussion. He asks if they’d care for some pie and suggests they just straightforward say what they came to. Hank sits down and crosses a leg. He confirms that they abandoned the quest but not on the group’s advice and also asks their guests to speak their piece. He mentions he won’t break the rules of hospitality but the minotaur is on his dren-list. Mortimer attempts to lighten the mood by kraken the door about Hank’s hospitality and then says he’s been expecting them. He says they are welcome to be there and that they should try the pie Ash couldn’t stay silent. He says they took no advice of the order’s and suggests they skip pleasantries and get down to why their guests are here. Manolo stays back to listen and observer Torry says their is no need to be rude and agrees that the pie is excellent and suggests their guests partake. Gnubert scowls at the minotaur and says hospitality his foot
Things were going pretty good until Gnubert’s outburst. In response the Minotaur has one of his own, leaning forward with a deep growl
“Look Gnome, I don’t like this anymore than you do, but I have my orders even if I disagree with them.”
One of the panthers standing next to him reaches out and squeezes the minotaur’s knee, saying “Peace Razahtlab. If we are to pitch the alliance that the elder suggested then we must be polite to our hosts.”
The other turns her attention to the Argentum, “It is said the enemy of my enemy is my friend. You turned down your former patron’s continued employ and you know the score with the Treasure Box of Svengaxi. We know he won’t give up that easily and we don’t trust him. You are a competent adventuring party and a known quantity. The elders think that if it is inevitable that the box is found, it is better for us to hire you to recover the box for us to hide and hold, before anyone else can claim it. With your former employer able to hand out powerful items like candy a direct confrontation seems unwise.”
The minotaur has no interest in snacks, but though they turned down the chair the women accept the food. It seems that they are less unwilling to sit and more staying right next to their companion to be in range to prod him when he’s being rude.
Torrynashkabbeth (Nick) HP:40/40 AC:26 F11: R12 W:15 Tuesday June 4th, 2024 5:42:28 AM
"Alas, the argument that I presented to Hiroshi holds just as much for you as him." Torryn replied calmly. " Whoever sacrificed themselves to ensure its secrecy did a very good job. Why compromise that? I suggest you continue in your chosen path: watch, monitor and react dependent upon the situation. You certainly seem very well informed." She really didn't see that much good could come from this box and felt that the Argentium's could be far better spent actually helping others: good people that needed their help.
Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11 ( 15 Mage Armor)(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 14/36 Tuesday June 4th, 2024 10:07:05 AM
Ash walks closer to Gnubert, and pats the man on his shoulder. The mage himself keeps his mouth shut, but his stare at the minotaur let's anyone know how much he doesn't like the creature. Figuring Torryn's words were in line with his, he lets her speak her mind for him.
Manolo (Michael A) -- AC 21/17/16 -- CMD 20 -- HP 37/43 Tuesday June 4th, 2024 11:55:07 AM
'Torryn is right ' , Manolo thinks. 'Something so world breaking , where are the gods? If something is lost they should just destroy it after finding it, He smiles, looking to see how things unfold.
Hank (Tanner) -- AC 24/12/22 -- CMD 24 -- HP 70 Tuesday June 4th, 2024 12:03:12 PM
Hank chews his cheek in thought as the others speak, then raises a hand to draw their attention. "If I may share a thought? I come from a family of merchants. I am a security specialist, but I rub shoulders with salesmen everyday. I think the problem is with your pitch. This group," he gestures to the party, "Is not the most mercenary-minded group of people. They want to help good people in need. What you, and Mr. Hiroshi, have presented are hypotheticals -- a mysterious artifact that could hypothetically cause harm to a hypothetical victim. It's too murky. They want something concrete and specific, otherwise it just feels like their only motivation is profit. Which doesn't bother me, but obviously you need to. Get the whole group on board. We need a concrete danger and a concrete victim in need of our help."
AC 13 HP 45/45 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K Tuesday June 4th, 2024 4:44:04 PM
They certainly were well informed. To the gnome's knowledge no one else should no anything about any of this. Then again, the near involvement of the Argentium was bringing precisely the type of attention that no one wanted concerning the 'box'.
At least no one was angry at the pies, but how could one be really. A silly thought. Loryn tilted his head, "Excuse me I might be a bit confused here. We were under the direct impression that a powerful sacrifice was made in order to assure the 'Box' was never located. Now you are saying your elders believe the rediscovery is inevitable and apparently imminent and a being of considerable power who wishes to keep the 'box' safe is not a good thing. I feel like you are here for us, not because you believe we are a good and proper group over the collector Hiroshi, but because we are believed to be harmless with regard to the box. in other words, Hiroshi could put it to use and we cannot."
Empower rod 3/3 Acid Ray 8/8 30' range 1d6+3 Innate Used: 1st lvl: 7/7 2nd lvl: 6/6 3rd lvl: 4/4
Gnubert Glitterdust (Wade) AC: 20 T: 14 F: 18 R: 9 F: 14 W: 11 HPS: 47/51 CMD: 6 Tuesday June 4th, 2024 7:19:30 PM
Gnubert leans forward meeting the beast's growl with his own, "Look Beast, the Gods themselves would need to magically appear in front of me, anoint me with oil, and make me King of the Wold before I would consent to do anything with, or for you!"
Gnubert stands up tall (all 3 feet of him) and glares at the minotaur. Diplomacy be damned.
DM Mitch and Hugh Crypt maze Wednesday June 5th, 2024 6:54:18 AM Torry suggests that whoever sacrificed themselves to ensure the secrecy of the Box did a very good job and there is no good reason to mess with that. She asks why compromise that and suggests they go back to monitoring the situation.
Ash walks closer to Gnubert and pats him on the shoulder. He stares daggers at the minotaur. Manolo thinks that Torry is right and wonders where the Gods are.
Hank suggests the order members need to alter their sales pitch to convince the rest of the party Loryn suggests that the elders believe that the finding of the box is inevitable and that the party is preferable to Hiroshi because Hiroshi could potentially use it while the party could not.
Gnubert says the Gods would have to annoint him with oil as king of the world before he would do anything with the minotaur
The minotaur glares at Gnubert and through clenched teeth says, Were it up to me I wouldn't work with you either, but wiser heads then mine make such decisions."
One of the panther sorceresses takes over. ”You make a sound argument, the same argument we have been operating under these centuries since the Box was lost. Our elders command powerful divination magics allowing them to prophesize whenever someone might find the box. Through this we have intercepted them and discouraged their search. This has worked until now.
The other one continues, Now the situation is different. As your gracious gnomish friend surmised we no longer think this is possible. Our elders have been working hard to try to predict the outcome of our dispute for the past several days and while they cannot see who will find the Box, they are certain it will not remain hidden where it is.
The minotaur nods at the two sorceresses having calmed down and says, “Despite your ignorant comments several days ago you seem honest and good hearted, and as you surmised even if you took the box it is far less a threat in your hands then in others. If this man who hired you finds it, maybe it just disappears into a collection for all eternity, but events are stirring and at this point we cannot determine how many are hunting the box. Maybe the only player on the board is your former employer or maybe not but typically the more one is determined to pull a thread the more things unravel and others start to pay attention. While I don’t like you and would prefer to just confront whomever finds it and take it from them, the elders feel you can be trusted to win the race to the box and surrender it to us.
(OOC: please check your mailboxes for an important email regarding the future of the campaign)
Torrynashkabbeth (Nick) HP:40/40 AC:26 F11: R12 W:15 Wednesday June 5th, 2024 8:13:39 AM
"Well, that IS a problem." Agreed Torryn. "It just seems that 'box-hunting' isn't really the Argentium thing to do. Stopping bad guys IS. Yes, we can - " She didn't get to finish her sentence as in came her teacher, Agratha. The elderly halfling was waving a letter excitedly.
"Oh, I do beg your pardons. I didn't mean to interrupt. If I could just borrow Torrynashkabbeth for a few moments." She smiled apologetically.
Torryn stood and approach Agratha. She was worried. That was because no one ever called her Torrynashkabbeth unless she was in trouble. However, at her approach Agratha smiled broadly and thrust the letter at her. Torryn read it and beamed in delight. She spun around to inform the others.
"I did it! I got in! I've been accepted at the Sacred Dancer Academy of Fine Arts! Oh...." She rushed forward and embraced each in turn, giving them heartfelt hugs. "But I must leave at once. the new term has already started!" She then spun around to face Agratha anew. "Do my parents know yet?"
""Oh yes, it to them that the letter went. You've been very busy, you see. Now come, we must go arrange everything and ensure that Spot is happy to make the journey." Agratha replied with a gentle smile.
"This is all so sudden. Goodbye everyone. Thank you for being such dear friends. I know you'll carry on doing the right thing. fare well!" And with that she darted out of the door before the tears came. Agratha stayed a moment and bowed to the gathered assembly.
"I know Torryn's departure doesn't help, but it is necessary. Such is the way of the Sacred Dancer." She then calmly left; that calm in total contrast to the whirlwind that was Torryn's exit.
~~~~~~~
OOC: Thanks all! I am winding down. Just one game left to smoothly depart. All the best!
Manolo (Michael A) -- AC 21/17/16 -- CMD 20 -- HP 37/43 Wednesday June 5th, 2024 11:16:16 AM
Manolo is left flabbergasted by the event unfolding in front of him The sacred dancer is gone to the dance academy? What nonsense was that, he couldn't believe it. "This must be some kind foolery and trickery by the gods, she didn't just leave, did she?", he says after Torryn leaves.
Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11 ( 15 Mage Armor)(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 14/36 Wednesday June 5th, 2024 2:33:28 PM
"See, you almost had me... until you said our ignorant statements. The only ignorant here is you. Even your two compatriots have enough tact and class to be forthcoming...." Ash's words trail off as Torryn is accepted into the dance academy. He smiles, but is also a little upset as one of theirs is leaving.
AC 13 HP 45/45 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K Wednesday June 5th, 2024 2:53:47 PM
Loryn looks on to the exchange between Agatha and Torrynashkabbeth. He sists straighter and hops up on his chair as he learns what is going on, a last joke, "You can't leave! All the plants will die!" He provides a good hug, as best as he can manage and a proper wink for good luck. "Fare thee well Torrynashkabbeth, Sacred Dancer" and with that she was gone.
Was that 5 now? No at least 6 perhaps more, though some felt more keenly than others by their duration of stay. It was the way of the Wold and certainly the life of a hero and adventurer. Speaking of which...
Actually 'Box' hunting was right up Loryn's alley, but he knew several in the group were not overly keen on the matter and when it looked like there was to bow out, he sided that direction to do so. Now Drack was gone and Torrynashkabbeth was leaving as well, which were the two in most opposition to a treasure hunt. Minotaurs came off gruff, so they say, and this particular minotaur had really struck a cord with Gnubert. Loryn was not quite sure he followed why, but sometime things can simply rub you wrong.
Loryn turned his attention back to the matter at hand, "Other groups? Race to the Box? The only clue we have is hundreds of years old, or at least that was our impression. Has precisely what we were hoping to not happen, now happened? Sounds like you are saying 'The orc's finger is out of his nose and everyone can see his business.' I have so many questions and most of them have to do with what has so radically changed?"
Empower rod 3/3 Acid Ray 8/8 30' range 1d6+3 Innate Used: 1st lvl: 7/7 2nd lvl: 6/6 3rd lvl: 4/4
Gnubert Glitterdust (Wade) AC: 20 T: 14 F: 18 R: 9 F: 14 W: 11 HPS: 47/51 CMD: 6 Wednesday June 5th, 2024 7:19:58 PM
Gnubert smiles broadly at Torry knowing this was her dream, "Be safe dear friend. I will miss you and your dancing." The cleric watches another of his friends disappear and silently wipes his eyes. too much like family, although is it ever too much Gnubert thinks to himself before turning back to the interlopers in his family. The cleric continues to glare at the beast but attempts to listen to the arguments being laid out in front of him.
OOC: Be safe Nick!
Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.): ac:20/15/16. temp/hp:63/50. icy disposition, false life Wednesday June 5th, 2024 11:26:55 PM "Wha?!" Is all Mortimer can say. This was quite the shock, he wasn't expecting this. He even forgot to roll his eyes at the Minotaur's snide comment or Ash's retort. He didn't know how to react. He had neither the propensity or the inclination to express affection or tenderness to someone. Why would he, none had ever been given to him. He just gives a simple wave goodbye, which seemed sufficient in most situations. This was what she always wanted ... and with that, he was glad for her.
He wishes he had stolen something of hers ... a memento. Now he's missed his chance.
(ooc: Sorry to see you go, Nick.)
DM Mitch and Hugh Crypt maze Thursday June 6th, 2024 9:36:03 AM Torry was in the middle of explaining box hunting isn’t really the Argentum’s thing when Agratha showed up and delivered news that Torry had gotten into the Sacred Dancer school of Fine Arts and she bids the others good bye. Manolo is left flabbergasted by the event unfolding in front of him. Ash said the minotaur almost had him till he mentioned the ignorant statements but then is distracted by Torry’s departure. Loryn cracks a joke about all the plants dying if Torry leaves before hugging her goodbye. He then turns his attention back to the matter at hand and ponders all the questions he has specifically what has changed so rapidly. Gnubert smiles broadly knowing Torry is following her dream. He thinks that this is too much like family and then glares back at the interlopers. Mortimer is shocked and uncertain how to react to the sudden departure.
Their guests give the party time to say their goodbyes. The minotaur very clearly wants to clearly wants to retort to Ash but holds himself back until after everyone’s had a chance to calm down.
Once things do, the minotaur states to Ash, “Yes ignorance regarding lamps, bottles, elemental gems and other means of enslaving sentient creatures to forcibly do one’s bidding. You likened the treasure box to one of these lesser items of enslavement like it was no big deal. But to some people it is a big deal and the treasure box and the possible endless supplies of orbs it produces are so much worse than a mere lamp, bottle or elemental geml, which I would also argue are only tools of evil”
The Twins panthers look at each other for several moments, considering. ”We’re getting off on tangents. It is clear members of our groups do not like each other, Arguing semantics and insults won’t change the nature of the situation.” One says.
The other continues, ”The situation is simple - the box will be found, either by this Hiroshi, his agents, or some unknown party protected against our divination. This we know. Our order will not let it fall into the hands of another. There is simply too much risk with such a dangerous item.”
“You can remain uninvolved, trusting that it will be found by someone with good intentions, but if you are wrong this area you protect will face the consequences first. It was last reported in this area, and someone with ill intent will likely test it’s powers nearby if they claim it.”
“Will you help us prevent this risk? Or will you stand aside and do nothing? Discuss among yourselves and tell us your decision. Nothing else needs to be said.”
Finished with their statement they nudge the Minotaur and move off with him to give the party privacy.
Hank (Tanner) -- AC 24/12/22 -- CMD 24 -- HP 70 Thursday June 6th, 2024 10:32:00 AM
When the three guests are out of earshot, Hank whispers to the rest of the party. "I say we go back to Hiroshi, take the job, find the box, get a big payday, and do some good in the world. These guys bug me, and I have no problem with hurting their feelings by returning the box to Hiroshi."
Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11 ( 15 Mage Armor)(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 14/36 Thursday June 6th, 2024 10:59:19 AM
"I don't know if I trust Hiroshi one way or another" Ash whispers to the group. " I do know I don't like that bull headed goon though... though his allies seem to be okay." Ash adds as he steals a glance at the panther ladies, even given a small smile to them.
" I say we be heroes... right. That's us.. we go get this box and we give it to neither. Turn it over to the wla, or one of the Dragon Groups. "
AC 13 HP 45/45 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K Thursday June 6th, 2024 12:56:17 PM
Loryn has been understanding the Minotaurs' stance on the aforementioned bottles, lamps and gems ever since the gnome brought it up originally and it had given him pause on the matter. Loryn would not be baited into a larger debate on the subject and thus he was content to steer the conversation away from that area. Loryn ushers the Argentium out of the front room and into the kitchen. He did not think they would snoop about beyond the front room, but he did think they might try to drop eaves on the conversation.
Once in the kitchen, he stokes of the stove and puts several pots to cooking. "A little background sound and..." the gnome casts Message
"Better, now lets discuss. Given what has transpired so far, I am inclined to agree with Ash. This latest round if information, to me, says we should get involved. Now, we either side with one or the other or we go it alone. The downside of going alone is to be cut from what seems to be some pretty capable divination and informational magic. I don't, rather I wont side with one just for the info and then NOT turn over the item.
Loryn lets that sit and then adds, "My preference is to be independent and upon finding the item we take responsibility for it." Looking to Ash, "I dont think its right putting a burden like this on someone else. As you say, we are to be the heroes...that and I believe the 'Dragons' are a thing of the past, we have to look to ourselves now.
Thoughts?"
Empower rod 3/3 Acid Ray 8/8 30' range 1d6+3 Innate Used: 1st lvl: 7/7 2nd lvl: 6/6 3rd lvl: 4/4
Manolo (Michael A) -- AC 21/17/16 -- CMD 20 -- HP 37/43 Thursday June 6th, 2024 5:21:12 PM
"By finding the box with no patrons and on nobody's side .....we are going to potentially end fighting Hiroshi's agents and the crazy minotaur and his cult", Manolo adds. "Both have an agenda and I don't like either of them...if we get rewards for it.....seems nice but again I can't trust either one of them at all", he says, thinking about their conundrum
Gnubert Glitterdust (Wade) AC: 20 T: 14 F: 18 R: 9 F: 14 W: 11 HPS: 47/51 CMD: 6 Thursday June 6th, 2024 6:54:40 PM
Gnubert says little, knowing he will agree to do what the party decides. The cleric nods slightly at the thought of going without either sides assistance but says nothing.
Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.): ac:20/15/16. temp/hp:63/50. icy disposition, false life Friday June 7th, 2024 12:02:12 AM "Wit' Hiroshi and crew on one side ... and the minotaur gang on the other, I don't cotton to the idea of bein' the meat in that butty. Pick a side ta run with, we should."
He looks around to make sure no one is listening and he continues. "I say we go with Puss an' Hooves in there. They 'ave powerful diviners ... not ta mention, lore that Hiroshi may not 'ave. An' they're less likely ta kill us if we're workin' with'em, yeah."
DM Mitch and Hugh Crypt maze Friday June 7th, 2024 6:08:54 AM Hank whispers to the rest of the group that they should go back to Hiroshi and take the job to get rewarded and he has no problem hurting the order’s feelings.
Ash says he doesn’t know how he feels about Hiroshi, that he doesn’t like the bull headed goon but his companions seem okay and that they should be heroes by getting the box and giving it to neither party.
Loryn ushers the Argentum into the kitchen and makes it difficult to be eavesdropped on using mundane and magical means. He voices his support for the independent route and suggests dragon groups are a thing pf the past.
Manolo suggests they are going to have to fight both Hiroshi’s agents and the cult but both have an agenda and he doesn’t trust either. Gnubert says little as he knows he will agree to do what the party decides. Mortimer isn’t so sure fighting both sides is a good idea and suggests they should pick one or the other.
The discussion continues. Two seem to be in favor of going it alone, while others are torn or favor one side or the other.
Manolo (Michael A) -- AC 21/17/16 -- CMD 20 -- HP 37/43 Friday June 7th, 2024 6:18:57 AM
Manolo scratches his head as an idea, a crazy one, pops in his head. "We could potentially split up and work for both", he simply says. "Otherwise , I don't know if we can agree about what to do but leave it all alone and potentially make the consequences appear surprisingly in our own turf and the very place we want to protect"
Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11 ( 15 Mage Armor)(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 14/36 Friday June 7th, 2024 7:04:18 PM
Ash nods to Loryn in agreement on his last line. "Listen.. we have to find it, that parts a definite. It's just the aftermath of what we do with it that needs a discussion, and that can be figured out on the way.
Hank (Tanner) -- AC 24/12/22 -- CMD 24 -- HP 70 Friday June 7th, 2024 8:09:33 PM "If we don't pick a side, they will smash us between them. If we have to pick a side... Well, one side has fed us, rewarded us, and complimented us repeatedly. The other side insulted us, threatened us, and attacked us. It seems like a pretty easy choice."
AC 13 HP 45/45 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K Saturday June 8th, 2024 4:21:38 PM
Loryn listens and nods at Mortimer, though in truth, he was pretty sure he did not understand much of it. He recognized the words being used, but the way in which they were strung together left his mind baffled.
"True enough and I agree as well." is the gnomes response to both Ash and Hank
"One last thought, what if we told both sides that we intend to locate and secure the chest? Any assistance provided would be appreciated with the understanding we will be determining what to do with the item once we have it?
Loryn sighs, "Either side is going to be nearly instantly aware if we pick a side ahead of time. As soon as we tell Hiroshi we are in, that group in there, is going to know. If we go with Hiroshi, which if we have to choose, I feel is the better course, I'm also making sure those three know that before they leave."
Empower rod 3/3 Acid Ray 8/8 30' range 1d6+3 Innate Used: 1st lvl: 7/7 2nd lvl: 6/6 3rd lvl: 4/4
Gnubert Glitterdust (Wade) AC: 20 T: 14 F: 18 R: 9 F: 14 W: 11 HPS: 47/51 CMD: 6 Sunday June 9th, 2024 8:01:08 PM "Let's see we have one side that has bribed us," Gnubert points to the ion stone above his head. "We have one side that has tried to kill us" Gnubert points to the Minotaur and party. "We have one party who wants a cool box to gain more influence with his friends," Gnubert points to the stone again, "and one that wants to ensure the cool box isn't used against others." Gnubert points to the minotaur again.
The gnome pauses for a moment and rubs his chin. "Neither sides choice is better than the other. And while I would rather beat that bull headed beast with a maul than do most anything. Sideing with those who would prevent slavery, and domination may be the better choice."
Gnubert clambers down from his chair, "That being said being good, and doing good for good's sake is the best option. We are good. Both parties are obviously not. I choose my friends over either of them everyday of the week, and twice on Sunday. I will happily walk into oblivion with each of you before I willingly let harm come to any of you. Make the decision, and let's get this thing started."
DM Mitch and Hugh Crypt maze Monday June 10th, 2024 5:03:47 AM Manolo scratches his head as a crazy idea pops into his head. He suggests split the party up and work for both groups. Otherwise he suggests potentially going back to leaving it alone and try to direct the consequences to their own turn and the place they want to protect. Ash nods to Loryn in agreement on his last line. He says they have to find it and that is definite but the only thing up in the air is what to do with it and that needs a discussion and can be figured out on the way. Hank suggests if they don’t pick a side they’ll end up smashed between the two and points out how the one side has fed and rewarded, and complimented them repeatedly while the other side has insulted, threatened and attacked them and it seems like an easy choice to him. Loryn listens and nods at Mortimer then tells Ash and Hank he agrees with both. He suggests telling both sides they intend to locate and secure the chest and any assistance provided would be appreciated with the understanding they will be determining what to do with the item once they have it. He points out that either side is going to be nearly instantly aware if they choose one and says if they do make their choice first and it is Hiroshi they should tell their guests. Gnubert summarizes their choices and suggests neither choice is better than the other and while he’d rather beat the bull headed beast with a maul than do most anything siding with the group looking to prevent slavery and domination may be the better choice. He says being good and doing good for good’s sake is the best option. He says he would chose his friends over any of them every day of the week and twice on sundays and would gladly walk into oblivion with each of them before allowing harm to come to any of them so they should make the decision and get things started.
The discussion continues but no clear consensus has been made.
Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.): ac:20/15/16. temp/hp:63/50. icy disposition, false life Monday June 10th, 2024 11:48:03 AM
Mortimer knows his street speak gets a little thick the more frustrated he becomes. Everyone, especially Loryn, is looking at him as if he were 'git faced'; deserving to be punched.
"Are yoos no' understandin 'he wawds comin ou' ov me gob, yeah?" he asks. (translation: Verily I say unto you, do you understand not the words I speak?")
(ooc: Maybe Mortimer needs to have his 'My Fair Lady' moment some time in the near future :)
After Gnubert has his say, Mortimer aggressively points to the priestly gnome and says, "Yeah! That's no blatherskite there!" He says in agreement.
Hank (Tanner) -- AC 24/12/22 -- CMD 24 -- HP 70 Monday June 10th, 2024 2:28:02 PM
Hank sighs and nods his head. "Okay, let's break this deadlock. I am fine with going with the minotaur under three conditions." He holds up a finger. "One, they do not send a babysitter to accompany us." He holds up another finger, "Two, we negotiate compensation ahead of time, half up front." Another finger. "And three, we have full salvage rights to anything besides the Box."
Manolo (Michael A) -- AC 21/17/16 -- CMD 20 -- HP 37/43 Monday June 10th, 2024 7:00:24 PM
Manolo sighs. ' I wonder what Lanliss companions would have done?' He didn't gave the luxury of tj.e to ponder and wonder . He stands up slowly going to face the minotaur. He looks at him dead in the eye. "You are quick tempered and easily angered. It would have helped if you were less aggressive but I can accept the reason why" He stops thinking and raises his hand slowly, he looks back and makes a gesture with his pinky finger."Pinky promise me that you are not the bad guy and that you will do everything to protect the box And make sure it is either kept very safe or destroyed. ". He waits for response.
Gnubert Glitterdust (Wade) AC: 20 T: 14 F: 18 R: 9 F: 14 W: 11 HPS: 47/51 CMD: 6 Monday June 10th, 2024 7:42:01 PM
Gnubert looks at Hank, "As acceptable as anything else I suppose. Let's get to it."
DM Mitch and Hugh Crypt maze Tuesday June 11th, 2024 9:05:36 AM Mortimer asks the others if they can understand him and then agrees with Gnubert’s reasoning. Hank sighs and nods his head and finally relents that he is willing to work with the minotaur on 3 conditions. The first the argentum does not get a babysitter from the order, the second is they negotiate compensation ahead of time and the third is they have salvage rights to anything that is not the box. Manolo approaches the minotaur and tells him he would have helped if he was less aggressive though he can accept the reason why. He asks the minotaur to pinky promise him that the minotaur is not the bad guy and that he will do everything to protect the box and make sure it is either kept safe or destroyed. He then waits for a response. Gnubert accepts Hanks conditions to present to the order and then suggests they get to it.
The minotaur looks at the offered human pinky with a raised eyebrow. It is small and pink and so much smaller than his own. After a pause he then extends his own furry brown thick pinky and links it with Manolo’s. When the action is done he asks, “So are we going to work together then to recover the artifact?”
Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11 ( 15 Mage Armor)(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 14/36 Tuesday June 11th, 2024 9:10:02 AM
Ash still has resentments but keeps his mouth shut. When the two pinky swear, Ash just looks down at his boots, but again keeps quiet.
AC 13 HP 45/45 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K Tuesday June 11th, 2024 7:17:19 PM
Chin up Ash, Loryn whispers through the spell. “We’ll see it done”he replies to the Minotaur “ our first order of business is going to be to establish a trail from this warlord that sacked the Armory. Ant thoughts or clues from your end?”
Gnubert Glitterdust (Wade) AC: 20 T: 14 F: 18 R: 9 F: 14 W: 11 HPS: 47/51 CMD: 6 Tuesday June 11th, 2024 7:35:53 PM
Gnubert watches the pinky swear and laughs to himself. I guess that is just as good as any he thinks to himself. "Well any suggestions on a direction of travel?" the cleric asks the new members of the alliance.
Manolo (Michael A) -- AC 21/17/16 -- CMD 20 -- HP 37/43 Tuesday June 11th, 2024 8:54:30 PM
"Yes", Manolo says firmly. "One moment", he says quickly afterwards. "We are doing this together, any last objections or change of heart?, now is the definitie time" If no one objects or has a change of heart, Manolo takes this as a sign that they finally chose a side for the time being and can focus on doing something regarding the box.
Hank (Tanner) -- AC 24/12/22 -- CMD 24 -- HP 70 Tuesday June 11th, 2024 11:34:07 PM "Sooo, let's discuss our terms. What are you willing to offer in terms of retainer, per diem, and salvage rights?" Hank smiles his best customer service smile.
DM Mitch and Hugh Crypt maze Wednesday June 12th, 2024 7:34:08 AM Ash still has resentments but keeps his mouth shut. He looks down at his boots as the pinky swear occurs but keeps quiet. Loryn tells Ash to keep his chin up via the spell. He says they’ll see it doen and the fist order of business is to establish a trail from the warlord that sacked the Armory and asks for any thoughts or clues. Gnubert watches the pinky swear and laughs to himself and figures it is as good as any. He too asks for travel directions. Manolo asks for any last second objections. Hank wants to talk terms.
The minotaur answers Hank. ”The thing with being a secret order is that to stay a secret we don’t interact with the outside world much. That’s why the elder’s felt we needed you to act openly on our behalf. It also limits us in terms of payment. We cannot offer you gold or riches, but my elders are skilled in the ways of magic. They could craft magical items to reward you for your efforts. Other than that, we care only for the box. Anything else you find is yours.”
The panther ladies add, “We have tried to research the time period the box vanished as best we can despite our isolation, so we may be able to help. Did that armory happen to hold the name of the warlord that ransacked it?”
Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11 ( 15 Mage Armor)(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 14/36 Wednesday June 12th, 2024 11:45:36 AM
Ash immediately looks up, and Nods to Loryn. He turns his attention to the minotaur and panther ladies, listening to their end of the deal and payment they are willing to offer.
Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.): ac:20/15/16. temp/hp:63/50. icy disposition, false life Wednesday June 12th, 2024 4:13:06 PM
Having read the old papers he found many times, he immediately recalls the name of the person in question. Mortimer replies to the panther ladies question.
"Yeah... it was a big, arse-faced ogre tha' wen' by the name of Warlard Kronk! Ring any bells, yeah?"
AC 13 HP 45/45 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K Wednesday June 12th, 2024 5:47:06 PM
Loryn was not overly interested in getting paid or what not, but was not about to speak up on that as he knew at least Hank was of that mind. For the gnome, the adventure, experience and excitement would be enough. Of course, he would not be turning things down and away either, those were part of the experience after all.
Mortimer had the name readily available and so Loryn nods in agreement and starts thinking where they could do some leg work themselves. The WLA seemed his best likely next stop, but in the morning.
Gnubert Glitterdust (Wade) AC: 20 T: 14 F: 18 R: 9 F: 14 W: 11 HPS: 47/51 CMD: 6 Wednesday June 12th, 2024 7:14:50 PM
Gnubert shakes his head, perhaps we chose poorly afterall he thinks to himself. Gnubert listens but says little else
Hank (Tanner) -- AC 24/12/22 -- CMD 24 -- HP 70 Wednesday June 12th, 2024 7:21:07 PM "Well, renumeration in currency is always preferred, but I suppose we could accept magical services in lieu of direct payment. Between the base retainer for adventurers of our caliber, per diem expenses, hazard pay, and service fees, I believe an amount of 5,000 gold pieces, or its equivalent in magical services, per team member would be sufficient. However, since payment would be in the form of magical services, it would be necessary for said magical services to be rendered prior to adventuring activities. Both to ensure successful renumeration, as well as to increase the likelihood of successful adventuring activities." Hank smiles. "I can understand any hesitation you might feel to provide renumeration before we engage in adventuring activities, but you are members of a secretive cult, and we are prominent members of a community with a fixed address. I am sure you understand."
Manolo (Michael A) -- AC 21/17/16 -- CMD 20 -- HP 37/43 Wednesday June 12th, 2024 8:03:44 PM
Manolo lets the others do the negotiations.
Manolo (Michael A) -- AC 21/17/16 -- CMD 20 -- HP 37/43 Wednesday June 12th, 2024 8:04:23 PM
And the info giving.
DM Mitch and Hugh Crypt maze Thursday June 13th, 2024 7:22:09 AM Ash immediately looks up and nods at Loryn. He turns his attention to the minotaur and panther ladies to learn about their end of the deal and potential payment. Mortimer remembers the name of the person in question and tells the panther ladies it was the big arse-faced ogre tha went by the name of Warlard Kronk. Loryn was not overly interested in getting paid or what not and deferred to Hank on that front. For the gnome the adventure, experience and excitement would be enough but he wouldn’t turn down things down and away as that is part of the experience after all. Loryn nods in agreement with Mortimer’s name and figures they should do some legwork themselves so he plans to visit the WLA in the morning. Gnubert wonders if they chose poorly after all while listening and saying little. Hank says currency is preferred by quotes an amount of 5,000 gold a piece in magical services is fair for their labor and that payment is expected up front to increase the odds of success and increase the likelihood they get paid. He says he can understand hesitation on the up front payment but the order is a secretive cult and the Argentum are prominent members of a community with fixed address. Manolo defers to the other for negotiations and info giving.
Their party’s new allies are less than impressed by Hank’s spiel. Pulling out a full money pouch the minotaur opens it to reveal it’s mostly copper, with a few silver here and there. After a moment of counting and mental math he says, ”I have maybe five gold. You two?”
The other two shake their head, pulling out their pockets to show nothing but pocket lint. ”Again, we are a secret monastic order sworn to safeguard a dangerous item. While we command powerful magics, selling those magics to make money would raise far, far too much attention to us and we could hardly remain secret. We mainly subsist on what we can create ourselves. Nor do we have piles of excess magic items lying around - we create only what we need or are actively using. I propose a compromise. Decide each of you what magic item you would desire as payment and make a list. I shall bring it to our elders. While you complete the job, they shall craft the items in question. It is the best we can offer - delaying things so we can make a payment in advance just makes it more likely Hiroshi or some other may beat you to the box.”
DM Mitch and Hugh Crypt maze Thursday June 13th, 2024 7:33:02 AM
(whoops got so distracted researching peasant income forgot the other half of the post)
The trio consider the information Mortimer and the others offered. "The name is vaguely familiar. one of the panther woman says. "I believe he was defeated in the Red Hills relatively near here." The other one adds, "I think it took place somewhere called Eagle's Pass? It should be easy enough to locate if you ask around."
AC 13 HP 45/45 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K Thursday June 13th, 2024 10:18:05 AM
Loryn arches a brow as Hank speaks, his head spinning a bit. Now was not the time to appear anything but unified here so Loryn hops up and take the offer. "More than fair and we will get back to you on that." he answers.
Sitting back, Loryn is concerned about how readily that information was available. It seemed almost common knowledge to any who have studied the area, and Hiroshi has most certainly studied the area. The gnome comes to the conclusion that not only does Hiroshi know everything they do, but he knew it sooner and is working to get someone to the pass.
Loryn gets up, "We have a considerable amount of work to do and time is pressing I'm afraid. If you will excuse us we need to get at it." Loryn ushers the visitors out of Minerva's.
First things first. "Hank? That was too far. We are striving to be Hero adventurers, not a sub group of the Mailed Fist. We decided to go after the box for the betterment of the area and others and i don't think we're sold yet on if we are even going to turn the box over to them anyway. Said my peace let's move on. I assume, Ash? you know where Eagles Pass is. If not, i would suggest a discreet visit to the WLA and look it up on maps of the area ourselves. Asking around brings that good old unwanted attention. no need to broadcast where we are going. I'll stock up the Bag of Holding with supplies and we should be good to go by tomorrow morning, uness the Pass proves a problem in locating. All Good?
Empower rod 3/3 Acid Ray 8/8 30' range 1d6+3 Innate Used: 1st lvl: 7/7 2nd lvl: 6/6 3rd lvl: 4/4
Manolo (Michael A) -- AC 21/17/16 -- CMD 20 -- HP 37/43 Thursday June 13th, 2024 3:56:27 PM
Manolo is happy with Loryn bossing everyone.
Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11 ( 15 Mage Armor)(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 14/36 d20+10=27 ; d20+6=20 ; Thursday June 13th, 2024 9:56:37 PM
"I can figure it out," Ash answered Loryn. Ash excuses himself and heads to his room to check some books. Once he has the location, he'll rejoin through others and share.
Knowledge geography 27 Knowledge local 20
Gnubert Glitterdust (Wade) AC: 20 T: 14 F: 18 R: 9 F: 14 W: 11 HPS: 47/51 CMD: 6 Thursday June 13th, 2024 11:09:09 PM
Gnubert looks up at the ioun stone floating above his head, and then back at Hank. Perhaps a visit to the temple is what I need thinks Gnubert. "Loryn that is a great idea. Tomorrow then." Gnubert says before heading to his room. The young Gnome can only stand so much hypocrisy, especially his own.
Hank (Tanner) -- AC 24/12/22 -- CMD 24 -- HP 70 Thursday June 13th, 2024 11:57:31 PM
Hank holds out his hands in an appeasing gesture. "It was worth a try. After all, we would use any magic items to help those in need, anyway. Tomorrow it is, then."
Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.): ac:20/15/16. temp/hp:63/50. icy disposition, false life d20+14=16 ; Friday June 14th, 2024 12:43:00 AM "Don't forget, if we needta be dodgy an' discreet, like ya say," Mortimer then tips his hat with a nod. The shadows shift and swirl around him as he takes on a new appearance ... that of a short, potbellied and hairless, middle-aged human. With a wicked smile, he adds, "Make the rounds, I can, an' none the wiser, yeah."
(Mortimer activated his Hat of Disguise. Disguise: 16, natural 2, I hate the die roller.)
DM Mitch and Hugh Crypt maze Friday June 14th, 2024 7:14:11 AM Loryn arches an eyebrow at Hank but knows now is the time to send a unified front so he accepts the offer from the trio and says they will get back to them on that. Loryn figures Hiroshi knows everything they do and must be working to get someone to the pass as well. He ushers their guests out, then has a chat with Hank. He then asks Ash if he’s familiar with Eagle’s Pass otherwise a trip to the WLA is in order. He says he’ll get supplies in order and they’ll leave tomorrow. Manolo is happy to let Loryn be the boss. Ash says he can figure out the location then goes to consult his books. Gnubert thinks he needs a visit to the temple. He agrees Loryn has a great idea and then heads to his room. Hank holds his hands in an appeasing gesture and says it was worth a try as they would use any magic items to help those in need. He agrees that tomorrow is a good day to set out. Mortimer uses his hat of disguise to be dodgy and discreet and says he can make the rounds with none being the wiser.
The minotaur’s group are slightly confused at the sudden exit but don’t resist. ”Find what you can and return. We will know when to meet you here. Even just well preserved remnants of the old battle might be enough for us to scry a clue.”
Preparations are made. Ash is able to confirm the location of Eagle’s Pass. It’s a valley through the hills too far from any trade routes to be used and otherwise unremarkable, at least in recent times. It shouldn’t be too hard to find, though finding the old battle site once there might be harder. The next day the party is fully ready to depart.
Manolo (Michael A) -- AC 21/17/16 -- CMD 20 -- HP 37/43 Friday June 14th, 2024 9:36:29 PM
Manolo is eager to go and explore.
Hank (Tanner) -- AC 24/12/22 -- CMD 24 -- HP 70 Friday June 14th, 2024 9:54:06 PM
Hank has no particular preparations to make, and stands ready to depart.
Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11 ( 15 Mage Armor)(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 14/36 Saturday June 15th, 2024 10:55:46 AM
Ash shares any info he finds out, and preps his bags and spells before mustering with the group.
AC 13 HP 45/45 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K Sunday June 16th, 2024 12:45:39 PM "You're the best Ash. Ok. I have to hit the shops and stock up the pantry here and we'll get going in the morning." Loryn goes about town as he often does, purchasing stocks and supplies for the larder at Minerva's. That evening he'll make up some meals and store them and 12 days of supplies, food and drink wise, in the Bag of Holding
The follwoing morning at dawn with breakfast made, the crew sets off.
"Ash you're going to kinda have lead on where we are going to keep us from getting lost
Empower rod 3/3 Acid Ray 8/8 30' range 1d6+3 Innate Used: 1st lvl: 7/7 2nd lvl: 6/6 3rd lvl: 4/4
DM Mitch and Hugh Crypt maze Monday June 17th, 2024 7:34:34 AM Manolo is eager to go and explore. Hank has no particular preparations to make and is eager to be off Ash shares any info he finds and pres his bags and spells before mustering with the group. Loryn tells Ash he is the best and informs the others he needs to hit shops and stock up the pantry and then they’ll get going in the morning. He makes up some meals that evening and stores them.
The following morning the party leaves with Loryn deferring to Ash. They’ll need to head north a ways before turning west into the hills. It’ll take 2 or 3 days. The first day at least passes uneventfully, mostly following the road north towards Thistleport before turning off in to trailess wilderness in the afternoon.
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