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Dapple [AC 18; HP 28/28] (Kathy)
Wednesday July 17th, 2024 1:21:42 PM
"Generally speaking," Dapple tells Grim. "Picking someone up and yelling at them isn't good strategy. I mean, if you start out being all nice and all, and they are all rude and uncooperative, then you can pick them up and yell at them. But if you start out there, you really have no way to step it up, except by actually harming them."

Kaze (JonS) HP 45/45 AC 19/Touch & Flat Footed AC 14/ CMD: 18/ CMB: 6/ Grapple: 7
Wednesday July 17th, 2024 2:23:20 PM
Kaze looks at Darnic, "The main concern is how many people perished over a short amount of time. When I first saw the town, I was amazed that anyone had survived at all. What I have learned is that the people who live here are a tougher breed than city dwellers, because they have to be. These monstrologers that Grim talks about don't make it any easier as they violate nature with their magics. If this outpost survived I would like to know how, so I'm good to head out. I have all the supplies I need."

Ezekiel (BrianW) - AC 17/13/14; HP 38/38
Wednesday July 17th, 2024 8:52:24 PM
"I don't have time to listen to all that right now," says Ezekiel. "I'll catch-up later."

Grim Ripr [CDM Jerry]
Wednesday July 17th, 2024 10:37:25 PM
Grim stops. Thinks. Then looks at the other adventurers nearby.

"I can see that this is not working. I wish you well. I will leave and go my own way."

With that, he bows, and leaves Cloudhaven never to return.

[Jerry: PC exited from game.]

Colt Human Rogue (Tim) AC 16 T 14 FF 12 HP 31/31 CMD 19
Wednesday July 17th, 2024 11:04:21 PM
[ooc] I asked about population shortly after joining the game. I can't remember the number exactly, but it was surprisingly small , 60-100, I think. The town lost about 5/6 of the population in the attack. Someone more authoritative can provide a better number. I'm going to cover in character with Colt's lack of math. [/ooc]

Colt frowns at Danric . "I never thought about how many people we had." He thinks, still frowning and moving his fingers. "Maybe 20 hands worth? Food is still a big concern, but we're doing a lot better. There's still a lot of repair work to do on the buildings. Guarding against another attack. And re-establishing trade. We haven't seen a caravan since the attack. "

Siolo (Joe) - AC 15/13/13 ; HP 28/28 , NL 0
Thursday July 18th, 2024 1:32:31 AM
"Excuse me," Siolo interjects, having approached from watching. "Mr. WLA, will this connect Cloudhaven with other big cities, like Plateau City?"

While he's not planning to abandon this area to Maya, and the other issues, it would be nice to know his personal mission could continue.

Yofiel (Kim McCoy), female elf bard 5th AC 16/16/14 HP: 33/33
Thursday July 18th, 2024 3:35:03 AM

When Grim, rather than simply asking her what she suggested he do, instead seems to give up, Yofiel says, "Oh, Grim. For all that you are worth, you fall short in this simple thing." She will not tell him what he only needed to ask to receive. "Fare well, then Grim Ripr. I have counted you a friend. If ever you wish to know a way forward with us, I will meet you. May The Great One watch over you and your tribe, and each in our ways, may we make this region a better one." She bows to him, then stands near Dapple as they watch him walk off, back in the direction the group just came from. "Dapple, I will miss him." She rests a hand for a moment upon the cleric's shoulder. "I need to pray and think. May I use the chapel?"

She spends upwards of an hour there, praying, singing softly. She takes out paper, ink, and pen and writes in a beautiful script a few different things. Part of the time she kneels, part of the time she stands and walks lost in thought through the holy space.

At last she emerges, seeks her friends, as well as Danric. "I am sorry. I had wanted him simply to acknowledge what he did to you was wrong, and perhaps find some way to express sorrow for his actions. I am afraid he chose another way."

Einar (StevenVdB) - HP68/68 - AC19/13/16 - CMD 21
Thursday July 18th, 2024 6:13:17 AM
Somehow Einar is disappointed to see Grim go. He must have been a formidable fighter when his mind was in the right place. Einar too isn't good with words so instead he chooses to stay in the background.

"So... what is plan?" Einar wants to know, "We go for Outpost? We leave when?"

Colt Human Rogue (Tim) AC 16 T 14 FF 12 HP 31/31 CMD 19
Thursday July 18th, 2024 8:05:28 AM
"What do you mean, Grim's gone?" The news spread quickly through town. Colt can't quite believe it. Grim was the keen edge of the sword that protected Cloudhaven. No one in town hacked and hewed the various creatures threatening the village like the big unpleasant barbarian. (Colt had only seen Rothlorien on the training grounds. That didn't make the same impression as watching Grim cut up opponents with seeming ease while Colt barely fended them off.)

[ooc] Einar's got big shoes to fill now. [/ooc]

Colt Human Rogue (Tim) AC 16 T 14 FF 12 HP 31/31 CMD 19
Thursday July 18th, 2024 9:21:07 AM
Colt trots to Grim's house, but the barbarian isn't there, and his most important possessions, his weapons and fetishes, are gone.

Colt backs out of the house and trots toward the village gate. The guards tell him Grim passed through just moments before. Colt looks out at the gloaming jungle. "Good-bye, Grim. You were a real half-orc."

Ezekiel (BrianW) - AC 17/13/14; HP 38/38
Thursday July 18th, 2024 9:38:18 AM
As Ezekiel's mind catches up, he reacts to the previous conversions with delay.

"Grim, you raise some fine points, but maybe we should investigate this walrus-wizard before just assuming he's a monstrologer or allied with Maya," says Ezekiel. "Wait, where did he go?"

Homecoming | Co-GM Ryan (Falco in Taur)
Thursday July 18th, 2024 10:49:01 AM
Darnic listens to Kaze’s concern. “Thank you for your thoughts on this. I was told there is a clean up effort to be undertaken in some lower caverns and I will certainly help with that unenviable task.”

To Siolo he responds “Well in time it could. The biggest thing is access to The Catacombs which is kind of like a clearing house for equipment. That would be the best way to connect with other locations for now, purchasing the magics needed for travel. It is is a simple message, say to remote parents, I can found ways to make that work. Oh, healing can be done too. “

When Yofiel returns later to Darnic his smile slips. “A shame. I had hoped that some guidance on civilized behavior could have made him a strong force. I will offer the support I can and with luck we will have some time to rebuild.” He shakes his head briefly and then regains some of his cheer. “Are there things you all are in short supply of at this point.” He pauses realizing he should have said this last part first. “I am truly sorry you lost a companion.”

The rest of the team deals with the sudden upheaval in various ways

Dapple [AC 18; HP 28/28] (Kathy)
Thursday July 18th, 2024 11:28:42 AM
"When you say 'you all,' do you mean the town or our little group?" Dapple asks. "Because the town needs lots of things. Although starting up trade again would probably help that situation."

Ezekiel (BrianW) - AC 17/13/14; HP 38/38
Thursday July 18th, 2024 3:17:25 PM
"He may be half-orc, but he was 100% a mule," says Ezekiel.

Kaze (JonS) HP 45/45 AC 19/Touch & Flat Footed AC 14/ CMD: 18/ CMB: 6/ Grapple: 7
Thursday July 18th, 2024 7:46:12 PM
Kaze is stunned that Grim had left. "I fear I will never understand what makes people do the things they do. Grim was an interesting fellow, and his presence will be missed."

Colt Human Rogue (Tim) AC 16 T 14 FF 12 HP 31/31 CMD 19
Thursday July 18th, 2024 10:26:29 PM
Colt returns to the tavern. "Grim's stuff is gone, and the guards said he left through the gate. No use trying to track him in the jungle. I guess he really is gone."

Siolo (Joe) - AC 15/13/13 ; HP 28/28 , NL 0
Friday July 19th, 2024 12:46:00 AM
Hearing that Grim has left causes a dissipation of stress Siolo didn't know had built up. He feels a little more relaxed now that the tinderbox that was Grim is no longer around. He is, and was, grateful for Grim's axe and the work it did. It was aimed at the right things at the right times. But, the benefit of Grim's axe felt like it came at a heavy price.

Siolo shakes his head to clear his musings and address the halfling, "Times are difficult and while we have done much for this town, there are probably other folks in the town who can better answer that question. I personally am not wanting for much. " Siolo pauses as something seems to leap to his mind. Yet again, he shakes his head. Such magic was only legend.

Yofiel (Kim McCoy), female elf bard 5th AC 16/16/14 HP: 33/33
Friday July 19th, 2024 3:05:11 AM

"I should like for us to remove the heads on spikes that Grim left. We should keep one as a memento, and bury the rest," says Yofiel. "Then, in one day or two, depending upon the preferences of those here, what would you think of us heading out to that outpost?"

The bard will be happy to receive the assistance of any who would like to help take down the stakes with heads of dead creatures planted atop them. There are likely about a dozen along the boundaries of the outpost, planted by Grim. She has shovels, a crowbar, and other tools.

Colt Human Rogue (Tim) AC 16 T 14 FF 12 HP 31/31 CMD 19
Friday July 19th, 2024 8:34:58 AM
[ooc] I had the impression Grim had been busier than a dozen! :-) [/ooc]

Colt sighs. He'd been looking forward to getting out of town, and removing and burying the heads sounded like unpleasant work. Still, Yofiel was Yofiel, and he'd help just to hang out with her. At least they weren't cleaning out the caverns. He made a note to himself to tell Rothlorien that the cavern burial party should be armed and careful. A dead mouse could breed more than one generation of maggots.

Einar (StevenVdB) - HP68/68 - AC19/13/16 - CMD 21
Friday July 19th, 2024 9:47:16 AM
Like Colt, Einar was getting anxious to getting out of town. Whatever task that leads him away from this place brings him closer to Selene again. Did she escape the rampage? Was she taken elsewhere? Did she run and is she then unable to return.

The prospect of removing these stakes doesn't quite appeal to Einar's ideas of spending time but none the less he will handle his share of the burden without complaining. So he nods at Yofiel and adds :"I help... you good with words. Say prayer for dead. I carry to resting place."

Kaze (JonS) HP 45/45 AC 19/Touch & Flat Footed AC 14/ CMD: 18/ CMB: 6/ Grapple: 7
Friday July 19th, 2024 11:40:27 AM
Kaze will help out where needed. Though he is short, he'll pitch in where he can.

Homecoming | Co-GM Ryan (Falco in Taur)
Friday July 19th, 2024 6:45:24 PM
At the mention of the stakes with heads Darnic frowns, he had not seen them. “That is a heck of a warning I guess but, you're right, it might be best to take them down as this area rebuilds. New people will come I am sure and it could give a wrong image.”

He looks to the barkeep. “Their tab tonight will be picked up by the WLA today and tonight.” He looks back to the others. “I am going to scout this underground area tomorrow if there is not training to be done. I am sure I can help with the cleanup of that area working with the member that was here for the attack and volunteers.” He gives a smile to the ground. “I will do my best to show the WLA’s worth to those that have not joined, we really are for adventurers.”

After a bit he will excuse himself and head to the tent he has set up as a temporary headquarters.

The party is left with just themselves at this point and an open bar tab for when you want it today and tonight, a valuable resource indeed after all you have been through.

Yofiel (Kim McCoy), female elf bard 5th AC 16/16/14 HP: 33/33 4d8+8=29 ;
Saturday July 20th, 2024 3:11:14 AM

"Yes, Einar, I shall offer a prayer, as you have asked. But most of the heads are of animals, except for a group of gremlins. They had nasty magics. Let their resting place be just inside the edge of the forest, but not along the pathways. Perhaps gremlins in one grave, and the animal heads in another maybe 20 feet away," she suggests. She makes available a shovel for ground digging - "Let's say about 8 feet down," - though she's willing to compromise at 6 feet.

With Darnic, she tells him, "They are heads mainly of small dinosaurs and nasty weird gremlins and a few other types of critters. As Grim started putting them up, I started pulling them down. Finally, I just left them up. Not what I want to remain surrounding this outpost." For the memento she mentioned, she will keep one of the small dinosaur heads, still affixed to a stake, and tries to decide which one would be the least gross of the collection.

"Thanks, Darnic. Now I understand what our dues help pay for," she says with a big smile.

"Gatter, Dori," she says to the half-orc and gnome who run the tavern. "I will want a dram for each stake we pull up. As 16 drams make an ounce, and there are perhaps two dozen staked heads, that's an ounce and a half or so. I usually drink wine. But tonight, just for a taste of each, I'd like to try different types of liquors. Rum. Whiskey. Bourbon, Gnomish, Brandy - whatever you can come up with. I have never had a hangover, and don't really want to aim for one. But I'd like to know how some of those things taste. And if I drink a total that does not exceed two ounces, I may yet survive to the morning. Besides, we bards are supposed to strive to expand our areas of knowledge," she concludes with a wink.

It turns out that there were 29 of the stakes left that Grim had erected. She had taken down about six herself many months in the past. 29 drams - just 3 drams shy of two full ounces. That will be a lot of sippin' liquor.

As they gather the skulls next to the dug pits, Yofiel prays thus
"Heavens above, why some creatures exist, I do not know. There are many lovely creatures to be found in the Wold. And some unlovely ones, as well. Help us to learn about both types. Some, as they would harm us, we may need to drive away, or even kill. Yet I pray we avoid bloodlust. Receive, earth of the Wold, these remains. The bones of many lie buried underground. As bodies and bones decay, they add to the richness of the soil. Life to death to life, Selah."

Einar (StevenVdB) - HP68/68 - AC19/13/16 - CMD 21
Saturday July 20th, 2024 12:32:25 PM
When Yofiel answers most of the heads were animals and gremlins Einar is visibly puzzled. It seems Yofiel thinks less of animals and Gremlins.

"All are children of Maab... animals, humans, plants... gremlins too... all loved by Maab no? Is what Selene taught me. Is what I believe. When kill is done all brought back to Maab. Queen unhappy with stakes."

Colt Human Rogue (Tim) AC 16 T 14 FF 12 HP 31/31 CMD 19
Saturday July 20th, 2024 2:02:42 PM
At the tavern, Colt contents himself with a single small beer on Danric's tab. He's already had one this evening and although he was filling out, his frame was still lean. His one experience with overindulgence had taught him that he never wanted to experience that again.

Cleaning the stakes, Colt responds to Einar's comment. "But the heads on the stakes were still in nature. The crows had the eyes and soft bits. Flies and bees have been at them since. Some of them were overflowing with worms. Oh and I think there were bees nesting in that one down there -- with the horns."

Dapple [AC 18; HP 28/28] (Kathy)
Saturday July 20th, 2024 4:54:17 PM
Being a halfling, Dapple would much rather have an unlimited food tab, but she makes the most of what she has.

Siolo (Joe) - AC 15/13/13 ; HP 28/28 , NL 0
Monday July 22nd, 2024 1:12:16 AM
Siolo regards Einar's comment with a head tilt. "Umm..I don't think Maab was a part of the humanoid races. Animals and plants and Fey, totally. At least, that's what I've read. Maybe I'm remembering wrong. "

Yofiel (Kim McCoy), female elf bard 5th AC 16/16/14 HP: 33/33
Monday July 22nd, 2024 1:14:22 AM

Yofiel listens to Einar's questions and hears Colt's response.

"Einar, all were creatures that attacked us, some were attacking our community. That Maab loves each of them may be. I have yet to find gremlins lovable.

"Likely each creature has its purpose and place... Yet if a creature or group of creatures want to attack me and my friends, and want to displace us, I may consider them to be out of place. Anyway, I will think about your words, and what you say of Selene's thoughts. Thank you for asking, Einar."

She looks forward to a taste test and ensures she has a good amount of water, plus a few things to munch on to cleanse the palate between sips.

Homecoming | Co-GM Ryan (Falco in Taur)
Monday July 22nd, 2024 11:20:08 AM
Yofiel helps to organize the removal of the heads on spikes and places a diverse drink order which Dori takes as kind of a challenge. A taste of a bit of everything is prepared including one green fruity smelling sip that is an unknown.

As the work is done there is some discussion about Maab and who she had a hand in creating. It seems a very good conversation to pass the time on a grim task. As you work Rothlarian stops and lets you know that he and Darnic are heading into the Facility to make a plan of action and that guards are in place. You can see that he has a rag around his neck that smells strongly of mint which will clearly be used to help with the stench of death down below.

Kaze (JonS) HP 45/45 AC 19/Touch & Flat Footed AC 14/ CMD: 18/ CMB: 6/ Grapple: 7
Monday July 22nd, 2024 12:14:34 PM
Kaze is amused by all the talk of different deities. Then rethinks his amusement, for his people too pray to a variety of spirits. One that tends to animals and plants is not one he prays to, but is one that his mother honors as she grows the herbs often used in healing.

Einar (StevenVdB) - HP68/68 - AC19/13/16 - CMD 21
Monday July 22nd, 2024 6:21:24 PM
Einar gazes into Colt's eyes. Is the rogue mocking Einar's believes?
"Stakes dishonor bodies. The dead can not travel to Lands of Rest now. Honor dead and return them.

Intrigued by Siolo Einar adds: "Yes... Queen of Fey... but when we die we also find Queen in Lands of Rest. She welcomes all. Fey, Plants and ... humanoids"

Einar nods at Yofiel's view on things.
"Maab not to blame when her children do bad. Bad children learn or be returned to Queen's embrace. When we take life of bad child we bring back to Mother. We honor child's return.
Gremlins did bad... you good to return them to Maab.

Einar is happy Siolo, Colt and Yofiel took time to talk this over with Einar. They are on the same page... apart from a few nuances perhaps.

Having spoken far more than he normally does Einar continues his work in silence. When all is done and prayers have been said he returns home. Takes a long bath to cleanse the dirt from his body and then joins the group with food, drinks and perhaps some laughter and dance.

Yofiel (Kim McCoy), female elf bard 5th AC 16/16/14 HP: 33/33 d20+11=23 ;
Tuesday July 23rd, 2024 3:09:00 AM

"A minty cloth? Good idea, that. I tried flavoring mine with wine, but it didn't help too much. Thank you for heading out there. Prepare for gruesome. By the way, didn't spend much time searching for hidden or secret doors, so there's always a chance you might find something more than we did."

She tells Einar after his various comments, "You said a mouthful there, new friend!"

At the tavern as Dori lays out the wee drinks for her, the elf lass is pleased. After sampling several she remarks, "I love the green one, Dori! What do you call it? Dori's Fruit-Filled Green Surprise? Can my friends try it, too? And I'd love four drams of that one! WLA is payin' - and you are serving up tasty treasures."

At one moment Yofiel says, "I'll be right back!" and runs to their place, picks up her gittern, and returns with it. She spends a few minutes tuning it. Then starts playing a lively tune that might be good to dance to! [Perform: 23 for playing tunes on the gittern]. She invites others at the tavern to kick up their heels. From her instruments case, she pulls out a long piece of straw, and holds it in her mouth as she plucks away at the strings.

If people show an interest, she plays on, singing sometimes, and other times only instrumentals. If others have an instrument or a voice to add to the mix, all the better.

Homecoming | Co-GM Ryan (Falco in Taur)
Friday July 26th, 2024 10:31:35 AM

The work continues and the heads are removed and buried exciting one (If I remember right) that is being preserved. After several hours Darnic and Roltharian come back with grim looks about them and sit off to the side discussion a plan of action for the Facility.

The cracked hoof tavern gets a little busy as the night goes on and it is clear that people have been doing what they can to get life going again as they were while the team was exploring the facility. Slowly people approach the table with Darnic and Roltharian volunteering to help with the clean up and being given instructions to gather the next day.

The young guard who had spoken to Grim approaches any party members that are there at one point and speaks with them nervously. “I feel I have to say I appreciate what you have all been doing and, well, those of us that tend to be stationed over by the lift just wanted to say thank you is all. It wasn’t your jobs to do this but you did and, um, yeah thanks.”

Kaze was helping out where he could. He understood the necessity for the stakes, but also agreed with his friends that it was time for them to come down.

Dapple [AC 18; HP 28/28] (Kathy)
Friday July 26th, 2024 10:37:37 AM
"You're welcome, I'm sure," Dapple tells the guard. "I guess we're going to go look at this outpost thingie next. Hopefully trade will pick up soon."

Kaze (JonS) HP 45/45 AC 19/Touch & Flat Footed AC 14/ CMD: 18/ CMB: 6/ Grapple: 7
Friday July 26th, 2024 12:19:11 PM
Kaze pitches in removing the heads from the stakes, and then burying or burning them once that is decided. "I understand the need for such things, they do work as a deterrent, however, they tend to work more on intelligent beings, not animals, well, at least for when the tribes use them."

Siolo (Joe) - AC 15/13/13 ; HP 28/28 , NL 0
Saturday July 27th, 2024 2:22:50 AM
Siolo tries to have a conversation with Dapple when a moment is opportune.

"Umm..Dapple..?" he says awkwardly. "I was...uhh... having trouble clearing my mind when I was praying. How do you do it?"

Ezekiel (BrianW with Kim's posting transfer sub) - AC 17/13/14; HP 38/38
Saturday July 27th, 2024 2:30:56 AM
[Taken from Brian's email when Woldian site was down]

Drunk on rum, Ezekiel attempts to sing to Yofiel's song, or rather sing while Yofiel is playing. The melodies don't match.

"There once was a ship that set to sea,
The name of the ship was the Zephyr's Key.
The winds blew hard, her bow dipped down,
Blow, Ezekiel, blow.

"Soon may the Storm Sorceror come,
To quell the storm and bring us calm.
One day, when the sky is clear,
We'll take our leave and go.

"Ezekiel stood with his staff in hand,
A sorceror known throughout the land.
He called on powers, fierce and bright,
To fight the storm throughout the night.

"Soon may the Storm Sorceror come,
To quell the storm and bring us calm.
One day, when the sky is clear,
We'll take our leave and go.

"The storm it raged, the waves did pound,
But Ezekiel's magic knew no bounds.
He chanted words both deep and true,
And through the tempest, power flew.

"Soon may the Storm Sorceror come,
To quell the storm and bring us calm.
One day, when the sky is clear,
We'll take our leave and go.

"With lightning flashing in his eyes,
Ezekiel reached up to the skies.
The storm it roared, but he stood tall,
For he would conquer, or they'd all fall.

"Soon may the Storm Sorceror come,
To quell the storm and bring us calm.
One day, when the sky is clear,
We'll take our leave and go.

"His voice it rose above the gale,
A spell of might, it would not fail.
The winds did cease, the waves grew still,
By Ezekiel's force, by sheer will.

"Soon may the Storm Sorceror come,
To quell the storm and bring us calm.
One day, when the sky is clear,
We'll take our leave and go.

"The crew they cheered, their spirits high,
Ezekiel had tamed the sky.
They sailed on calm, through waters clear,
With tales of magic for all to hear.

"Soon may the Storm Sorceror come,
To quell the storm and bring us calm.
One day, when the sky is clear,
We'll take our leave and go."

Yofiel (Kim McCoy), female elf bard 5th AC 16/16/14 HP: 33/33
Saturday July 27th, 2024 2:31:15 AM
[adapted from email posted during the Woldian site downtime]

The bard enjoys Ezekiel's song, and plays the tune with verve and energy, then claps when he finishes singing.

Later, she quietly suggests to Ezekiel, "It's really really hard to cram so many syllables into the tune: 'Soon may the Storm Sorceror come' - Now, if 'Sorcerer' were one syllable, then, it would work fine. Or, if you dropped the word 'Storm' - then that would scan too. But, oh, never mind what I say. It's a wonderful song, Ezekiel!"

As things wind down for the evening, she asks, "Who is ready after a good breakfast tomorrow to head out to find the outpost? And, Einar, you think you can find your way back there, right?"

Einar (StevenVdB) - HP68/68 - AC19/13/16 - CMD 21 d20-1=11 ;
Saturday July 27th, 2024 7:01:46 AM
Last Einar remembers from the night before was Yofiel performing great on her gittern and Einar knocking over some chairs as he tried to dance (dance 11). In the end, and despite the gruesome work that had been done, it was a good evening.

When day breaks Einar walks out with a thumping headache. More or less ready to see where he can help best. When Dapple tells the guard they will go look at the outpost Einar pitches in:"Last time to traveled there the path was easy to follow and without immediate danger... at least... we didn't know there was any danger then. "

Yofiel (Kim McCoy), female elf bard 5th AC 16/16/14 HP: 33/33
Monday July 29th, 2024 1:06:57 AM

Yofiel hears the young guard's words of gratitude, and Dapple's reply. The bard says to him, "Each of us has a role, {DM please insert his name}. Thank you for keeping an eye out for our outpost, too. Say, If there were a souvenir we might bring back from our trip through the jungle, might you have an idea of the sort of thing you'd like us to bring you?" she asks him. "Or something for you and your mates?"

Homecoming - DM Jess- Maps and documents
Monday July 29th, 2024 9:51:35 AM
The party is approached by a grateful guard. Dapple suggests that maybe once the party makes contact with the outpost, trade will open up. Yofiel asks the guards if there is anything they can get for them. “If you happen across any cacao pods, those would be appreciated. Grows wild in the forest and is always a treat around these parts,” he said, looking a bit bashful at the request. “But truly, you’ve done more than your share already.”

Kaze helps remove the heads from pikes and questions their efficacy as a deterrent.

Siolo asks Dapple for help praying.

A drunk Eziekel sings a song about himself. Yofiel applauds him and later attempts to give him some advice about his meter. Einar dances very enthusiastically, if not particularly well.

The next morning, the party gathers for breakfast--some members in better shape than others. A light mist hangs heavy in the air, threatening heavier showers as the day progresses.

Einar (StevenVdB) - HP68/68 - AC19/13/16 - CMD 21
Monday July 29th, 2024 11:19:21 AM
Einar nods when Yofiel asks if he can find his way back to the outpost.

"Path to outpost easy to follow but through jungle. Parts overgrown and ground uneven. Feet got wet crossing small streams. Muddy. Booth got stuck... Small cart very difficult... will make long travel. "

Dapple [AC 18; HP 28/28] (Kathy)
Monday July 29th, 2024 1:48:48 PM
"I've never really given it much thought," Dapple replies to Siolo. After a moment's thought, she says, "Your mind doesn't have to be as empty as all that. You can think about things, as long as they're the right things."

She pulls a set of dice out of her pocket. "I often use these when I pray to Wardd," she says. "They focus my mind on chance, and luck, and chaos. Wardd's things. You would need to focus on Maab things. Maybe plant a tree? No, you couldn't do that every day. Plant a seed? Something like that?"

Ezekiel (BrianW) - AC 17/13/14; HP 38/38
Monday July 29th, 2024 3:42:38 PM
"Dapple, why are you talking so loudly?" says Ezekiel. It's evident the sorcerer had a little too much rum the previous night. "So what are we doing today? Something about trees?"

Kaze (JonS) HP 45/45 AC 19/Touch & Flat Footed AC 14/ CMD: 18/ CMB: 6/ Grapple: 7 Stealth, to sneak up behind Ezekiel to poke him: d20+11=31 ;
Monday July 29th, 2024 6:12:12 PM
Seeing Ezekiel's state, Kaze almost walks up behind him and claps his hands, then realizes that's not the polite thing to do. So he just pokes him in the shoulder, "We're going for a walk in the woods."

Colt Human Rogue (Tim) AC 16 T 14 FF 12 HP 31/31 CMD 19
Monday July 29th, 2024 10:36:59 PM
[ooc] Wednesday morning, I'd written a nice post about Colt dancing to Yofiel's song, but lost it. Oh well, I guess he went home early, tired from training with Rothlorien. [/ooc]

Colt shows up in the morning well rested but sore. He eats a large breakfast and listens to the others. "How long will the journey be? We should bring enough food for a round trip, plus a little extra."

Yofiel (Kim McCoy), female elf bard 5th AC 16/16/14 HP: 33/33
Tuesday July 30th, 2024 1:07:40 AM

"Grim is strong, and often would carry things we needed," Yofiel tells Einar, with the others there, too. "I have a handy haversack which can carry about 80 pounds, and only weighs 5 pounds. Einar, we often use a travois. A couple of long sticks crossed over each other and tied at the joint. The short end of where the sticks cross is to hold onto and drag the sticks behind. The long end of the sticks we use rope and shorter sticks attached crosswise to make a platform for bearing things on it. It can go through the jungle. It's not a cart, not a wagon. It is smaller. We have carried a sick person on it before, and much gear."

She shows him two of them, and shows him how they work.

"We can bring this with us," she says of the wooden one, not wanting to take the metal one this time.

"You also spoke of crossing water, Einar. I have several waterskins, which of course can hold water, and keep it sealed within. When emptied of water, and we breathe into them to fill them with air, then seal them, we can use them to float. If we cross without carrying too much weight - well, I can swim - but just one or two waterskins can easily keep me afloat with little effort on my part. For narrow crossings, one length of rope should suffice to help us cross streams. For wider crossings, multiple ropes - we can figure it out when we get there. I traveled for decades with my family across a good part of this continent. We always managed a way. And I'm not a girl who is afraid to get dirty, nor am I afraid to wash up."

Homecoming - DM Jess- Maps and documents
Tuesday July 30th, 2024 9:22:40 AM
Einar describes the path that the group will need to take to the outpost.

Dapple does her best to give Siolo advice about how to pray.

Ezekiel is very hung over. Kaze reminds him about their plans to leave that day.

Colt eats a large breakfast and considers how much food the group will need to bring with them.

Yofiel explains to Einar their usual mode of transportation.

Einar Highlight to display spoiler: {The water you had to cross was just smallish streams. Your feet got wet, but flotation devices are unnecessary.}

As you eat your breakfast and discuss your plans, the rain gets heavier, fat drops beginning to fall as darker clouds move in.

Einar (StevenVdB) - HP68/68 - AC19/13/16 - CMD 21
Tuesday July 30th, 2024 11:11:11 AM
Einar eyeballs Yofiel from head to toe... "You... be fine... water ankle deep... you not drown there "

When Colt wants to know how long it will take them to get to the outpost Einar responds : "Took me 2 days... be bit longer for short legs. "

Looking at the rain Einar realizes he's perhaps not well equipped for longer travels... he makes sure to pick up some travel clothes, backpack, camping stuff.

Kaze (JonS) HP 45/45 AC 19/Touch & Flat Footed AC 14/ CMD: 18/ CMB: 6/ Grapple: 7
Tuesday July 30th, 2024 12:49:46 PM
At the mention of "shorter legs," Kaze looks down at his and then mentions, "I', close in strength to Grim, just not as tall. I can help with the travois if needed."

Siolo (Joe) - AC 15/13/13 ; HP 28/28 , NL 0
Tuesday July 30th, 2024 5:57:02 PM
"Thanks Dapple, I think I get it," Siolo says without much confidence.

After they meet up in the morning, he listens to the concerns about the rain and water. "I uhh..could think of useful forms to take to help out should it get overly wet. Any thoughts?"

Ezekiel (BrianW) - AC 17/13/14; HP 38/38
Tuesday July 30th, 2024 6:12:38 PM
"If it's ankle-deep for Yofiel, how deep is that on Dapple?" asks Ezekiel. "And on the furies ones?"

Dapple [AC 18; HP 28/28] (Kathy)
Wednesday July 31st, 2024 12:20:23 AM
"Did somebody say 'short legs'?" Dapple asks. "Yeah, that's me. Ol' Dapple Short Legs. Shoulda brought my patens, but in my defense, I thought I'd be hanging around the temple most of the time.

Yofiel (Kim McCoy), female elf bard 5th AC 16/16/14 HP: 33/33
Wednesday July 31st, 2024 1:03:09 AM

Yofiel decides to conduct a group missile ammo inventory
"Say, just before we set out - it seems a few folks were running shy of missile weapons during our prolonged journey through the research site.
"Colt: How many sling bullets do you have? If you don't have at least 30, then, kiddo, get some more!
"Ezekiel: How many arrows are you bringing?
"Dapple: How many crossbow bolts do you have with you? 20? 40?
"Siolo: How many sling bullets have you? At least 30?
"Einar: You have a sling, right? How many sling bullets do you have? The more, the merrier.
"Kaze: Crossbow bolts - 20? 40?"

After quizzing everyone as to how much ammo they are carrying with them (she'd be delighted if people show her what they have, but will not insist on it), Yofiel says, "We don't know how long we will be out, there are lots of flying saurs, and tall dinosaurs - it will be prudent to ammo up before we leave.

"My, that rain is certainly falling hard. Maybe we should wear helmets to be certain our heads do not get dented," she jests. For the literalists in the group, she adds, "I'm only joking on that one."

"Well, Siolo, an eel might not mind the water. Ooh - a water buffalo, maybe? Or an umbrella-saur?" Yofi jests lightly with her half-elf friend. "Seriously, though, do you have some good ideas for dealing with the elements through the wonderful teachings you are absorbing? Oh, I have watched seagulls seeming to pay no mind to heavy rains as they hunt for fish that swim near the surface of the water along Dragon Bay - but a seagull would likely appear out of place in the jungle, if not near the shore."

Yofiel (Kim McCoy), female elf bard 5th AC 16/16/14 HP: 33/33
Wednesday July 31st, 2024 1:06:08 AM

[What is the name and race of the guard who thanked us for what we do? No doubt our characters know his name, but we need help from our DMs on such matters :-) ]

Food - and other topics
"Colt, bringing adequate food is a decent idea. We likely can find some fruits and vegetables along the way, and perhaps some edible game. Oh, and we have an assignment: We are to keep our eyes out for cacao plants. They grow in the jungle, and would be a wonderful treat for our guards, even for the whole town!"

Then she adds, "I think a fair bit of the jerky we found in the research compound, some of the dried mangoes, and other such food that can endure a fair amount of time without spoiling would be wise to carry. Maybe we will find fresh mangos, bananas, berries, and other things good to satisfy our hunger along the way. We are not wandering through a desert, after all."

In responding to Ezekiel's query, the elf quips, "Don't worry about it, Ezekiel. Dapple's legs are plenty long enough to reach all the way to the ground." Then she adds, "Pattens, though, as Ol' Dapple Short Legs points out, are good to have when walking through mud and muck."

"Thank you, Kaze, for offering to help with the travois. I think between you, Einar, Siolo, Colt, and me, we can take turns bringing it along." Then she adds, "I wonder if Patches might be able to pull a smaller travois?" [Also doggy travois #2]

Her last thought, for the moment, on dealing with the rain is this: "Let's get some oiled canvas to help cover our bags, to shed the rain so things we need to be dry can stay that way."

Colt Human Rogue (Tim) AC 16 T 14 FF 12 HP 31/31 CMD 19
Wednesday July 31st, 2024 9:24:00 AM
In reply to Yofiel's queries on ammunition:
"I'm using a longbow now, Yofiel. And the glaive we found. Rothlorien showed me those. But I'll get some more arrows. "

On food etcetera:
" Rooster, the trail boss on the caravan I came here in, said the key to traveling in the jungle was to go as fast as possible. There's no time to forage. 'Every hour is another chance for a bad dino to find us', he said. So we should plan to carry all our food. Oilcloth is a good idea. Rooster kept his papers and bedding wrapped in oilcloth. ... "

Homecoming - DM Jess- Maps and documents
Wednesday July 31st, 2024 9:54:51 AM
Einar assures the party that the streams shouldn’t pose much of a problem and tells them that the journey is likely to take 2-3 days. Ezekiel wonders how deep the water will be for the group’s shorter members.

Kaze offers to help with the travois.

Siolo thanks Dapple for her advice about prayer. Dapple bemoans not bringing her pattens.

Yofiel asks the group to inventory their ammo and makes further preparations for leaving. Colt impresses on the group the importance of moving swiftly through the jungle.

Once everyone is ammoed up, the rations is packed, the travois prepared, the group heads to the jungle. The rain has let up somewhat, but the air remains heavy and humid around you. As you enter the rainforest that surrounds the plateau, the sounds of the rich wildlife of the area greet you: the chittering of monkeys, the cries of birds, the hum of insects accompany the sound of raindrops as they fall through the thick canopy above.

The vegetation is lush around you, and Einar easily leads you to the trail. It is narrow and winds through plants and around trees. The clay of the rainforest floor is damp, and squishes and squelches as you step on it, but not so much that it will impede your progress.

OOC: The guard is a human male, early 20s. He goes by “Shep.”

Ezekiel (BrianW) - AC 17/13/14; HP 38/38
Wednesday July 31st, 2024 11:32:44 AM
"I believe I have a full quiver of arrows here," says Ezekiel. "Though I have often been told otherwise."

Ezekiel has 60 arrows, including some silver and and some cold iron ones.

Kaze (JonS) HP 45/45 AC 19/Touch & Flat Footed AC 14/ CMD: 18/ CMB: 6/ Grapple: 7
Wednesday July 31st, 2024 2:48:48 PM
Kaze looks through his pack, and the small saddle packs that Patches wears. "I've got 20 bolts, having picked some up from the fighting, and a couple more from the stock here. As for food, we've got rations, and a small amount of smoked fish left. Finding food along the way would be simple, if we're out longer than four or five days. All my other gear I cleaned and checked."

Siolo (Joe) - AC 15/13/13 ; HP 28/28 , NL 0
Wednesday July 31st, 2024 11:44:18 PM
Siolo nods at Yofiel, "Yep, two thirds is standard bullets, one third cold iron. And, eels are smaller than I can manage currently. Also, also, I have and will continue to prep an incantation that can turn berries into full meals. So, I'm ready when yall are. "

Yofiel (Kim McCoy), female elf bard 5th AC 16/16/14 HP: 33/33
Thursday August 1st, 2024 3:42:31 AM

"Excellent!" Yofiel responds as several fill her in on what they have. "Switching to a bow seems a good idea, Colt."

She picks up maybe 30-40 yards of canvas, and makes sure it is oiled to make it water-resistant. She passes out quantities as people desire.

Once all the gear is readied, she is happy to strike out on this new journey. She enjoys the exercise of walking, and appreciates the company of her friends.

Einar (StevenVdB) - HP68/68 - AC19/13/16 - CMD 21
Thursday August 1st, 2024 5:27:22 AM
Before heading out Einar fills Yofiel in about his current ammo situation : "20 bullets I have. Why need more? No time to throw more... I can carry gear if too heavy for other"

As they come to the path Einar hesitates a moment and checks out how the group organizes.
"Trail not wide sometimes... then one at the time. Some places wider. Some places need weed cutting to move. Jungle out there... where my place?"

Einar would just like to know if the group has a certain marching order... are there designated scouts? Squishy ones in the middle? Who takes point and who closes ranks. Do we have eyes from above? Who are the noisy one and who dislike metal armor...

Homecoming - DM Jess- Maps and documents
Thursday August 1st, 2024 9:24:41 AM
The party checks their ammunition to make sure that they are well stocked should they encounter any danger on their journey. Kaze, and Ezekiel report the number of arrows and bolts they are bringing with them. Yofiel finds some oiled canvas to keep everyone dry in the intermittent rain. Siolo also offers to magically augment the group’s rations.

When they reach the jungle path, Einar checks in with the group about their usual approach to travel. He wants to know about marching and scouting--and your DM does too.

Ezekiel (BrianW) - AC 17/13/14; HP 38/38
Thursday August 1st, 2024 9:34:16 AM
Ezekiel, being rather squishy, likes to be towards the center of the group.

He will also cast mage armor before leaving town.

Dapple [AC 18; HP 28/28] (Kathy)
Thursday August 1st, 2024 12:30:29 PM
"Twenty," Dapple replies to Yofiel. "But if we're relying on my crossbow skills, we're already sunk."

As the group is figuring out a marching order, Dapple tries to stay near the middle, where she can reach anyone needing healing or assistance.

Kaze (JonS) HP 45/45 AC 19/Touch & Flat Footed AC 14/ CMD: 18/ CMB: 6/ Grapple: 7
Thursday August 1st, 2024 5:34:37 PM
Kaze with Patches is willing to take front, he can be quiet, point out edible plants or ones to avoid, and with his shield and sword he's handy in a fight, just not as good as Grim was

[his Perception is +10, Survival is +8, and Stealth is +11]

Siolo (Joe) - AC 15/13/13 ; HP 28/28 , NL 0
Thursday August 1st, 2024 11:47:39 PM
Siolo is contented being in the back to be a rear guard in case some enterprising pack dinos try to ambush. As he travels, his attention is split between looking for berries and contemplating different useful animal forms for monsoon situations.

Yofiel (Kim McCoy), female elf bard 5th AC 16/16/14 HP: 33/33
Friday August 2nd, 2024 2:07:36 AM

Cloudhaven Marching Order, Suggested

By two
Kaze (on Patches) - Einar
Yofiel - Colt
Dapple - Ezekiel
Siolo

Single file
Kaze
Einar
Yofiel
Colt
Dapple
Ezekiel
Siolo

"If that marching order sounds good to you, fine. If you want to adjust forward or back, or switch sides, go ahead," says Yofiel. She listened to everyone, and this is her approximation.

As they set forth, the elf bard breaks into a short prayer-song.

"Guide our steps through jungle lands
Grant us wisdom as we plan
Alert we'll be for foe and friend
Know when to fight and when to bend

"Bind our minds and hearts in strength
As we walk the journey's length
Help us seek this wizard odd
Grant us succor, oh ye gods

"Another outpost we shall see
May we find them in good health
Let them hear our Einar's plea
To open doors, and share the wealth"

She laughs lightly, enjoying the weather, and walking with her friends. "Master Ebin Waelius, right? We'll find the plant wizard!"

Einar (StevenVdB) - HP68/68 - AC19/13/16 - CMD 21 d20+9=19 ; d20+8=25 ; d20+6=7 ;
Friday August 2nd, 2024 6:20:14 AM
Einar is happy with the marching order and with having Kaze and Patches at his side.

[b]"You and your friend know Jungle terrain well?"[b] Einar asks hoping Kaze will know how to move through the jungle safely.

As they march along the trail Einar keeps an eye out for potential danger (know Nature 19, survival 25 ). He does fine with the fauna and flora along the trail but he is oblivious to anything else that might be observing the group (perception 7 (Nat 1)).

Colt Human Rogue (Tim) AC 18 T 14 FF 14 HP 50/50 CMD 20
Friday August 2nd, 2024 8:06:08 AM
[ooc] Another lost post. ~sigh~[/ooc]

Colt walks along where he's told and takes his shifts on the travois. Foggy circles his feet, or occasionally poaches a ride on the travois when Colt is pulling it.

Homecoming - DM Jess- Maps and documents
Friday August 2nd, 2024 8:25:21 AM
Your group ventures out into the jungle, the humid air feels heavy around you. You travel two-by-two when possible and breaks into single file when the path becomes too narrow. Ezekiel casts mage armor on himself. Yofiel sings a prayer/song; Dapple assures her that she has plenty of crossbow bolts. Kaze leads the group. Siolo takes the rear just in case an attack comes from behind. Einar asks Kaze about his experiences navigating the jungle. Colt takes his turn pulling the travois and Foggy takes advantage of it, hitching a ride.

You travel for half a day without incident, though rain comes in intermittent downpours.

About midday, the path opens up into a clearing. At its center is a dead albertosaurus--similar in shape to the T-Rexes you have seen, but smaller and lighter.

By two
Kaze (on Patches) - Einar
Yofiel - Colt
Dapple - Ezekiel
Siolo

Single file
Kaze
Einar
Yofiel
Colt
Dapple
Ezekiel
Siolo

Ezekiel (BrianW) - AC 17/13/14; HP 38/38
Friday August 2nd, 2024 10:25:24 AM
"A plant wizard?" askes Ezekiel. "I didn't know plants could become wizards. How to they make the gesters without fingers?"

Kaze (JonS) HP 45/45 AC 19/Touch & Flat Footed AC 14/ CMD: 18/ CMB: 6/ Grapple: 7 Perception: d20+10=12 ; Survival: d20+8=25 ; Patches Perc: d20+8=26 Survival Scent: d20+6=14
Friday August 2nd, 2024 3:27:22 PM
Kaze answers Einar's questions, "I'm fairly good at moving through nature, I respect her, she respects me. It's the way of my people." Kaze stops dead when he sees the body in the clearing. He'll dismount and look around to see if this is some kind of trap, or if the beast was killed here.

Patches adds her nose and senses to the search as well.

Dapple [AC 18; HP 28/28] (Kathy)
Friday August 2nd, 2024 7:12:21 PM
"Oh, they can cast without gestures. Or words, either," Dapple tells Ezekiel. "Very tricky, plants."

Siolo (Joe) - AC 15/13/13 ; HP 28/28 , NL 0 d20=4 ;
Friday August 2nd, 2024 11:05:17 PM
"Yeah..," Siolo hesitantly adds to the contain. "Often times plant wizard will look like a normal tree so th-" he quiets quickly when Kaze stops.

He also begins looking around for any sign of an ambush.

((Perception 4+12=16))

Yofiel (Kim McCoy), female elf bard 5th AC 16/16/14 HP: 33/33 d20+14=15 ; d20+4=8 ; d20+15=27 ;
Saturday August 3rd, 2024 4:56:57 PM

Dead-Dinosaur-Induced Walk Stoppage
With the column halted, and conversation having come to an abrupt stop, Yofiel takes a look around the meadow, gauging the size of the clearing they have just entered (how far in yards or feet to the other side from where we entered? How far across? Circular, ovoid, or other general shape of the clearing?), perhaps visible trails across the area, types and density of foliage within and surrounding the area, and any evidence of a local fight involving the albertosaurus.

Perception: 15
Survival: 8
Knowledge, Nature: 27

Yofiel (Kim McCoy), female elf bard 5th AC 16/16/14 HP: 33/33 d20+14=25 ; d20+15=27 ;
Monday August 5th, 2024 3:34:53 AM
By the way, on general principle, Yofiel will be keeping her eye out for cacao trees. Not assuming there are any in this clearing, these are just a few daily rolls for her search on behalf of Shep.
Perception: 25
Knowledge, Nature: 27

Also, Yofiel is mapping as the group goes along.

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