The Peak - DM Cayzle Wednesday July 31st, 2024 11:37:43 PM
Frostbite Status: Nadia 5 hp nonlethal damage. Frit 16 hp nonlethal damage. Hamlin 15 hp nonlethal damage.
[OOC: Sorry to miss a day, but seeing as I started Sunday, I’m still hoping to get five posts in this week!]
Aymar uses his paladin ability to remove fatigue from his friends.
You cannot cure frostbite damage until you are warm and cozy!
You check your gear to make sure everything is in the right spots.
You agree to move in single file, roped together. EXCEPT Aydi, who is enjoying his sucessful role as scout.
At the peak, you see a natural wall, surrounding the summit. It turns out to be the lip of a caldera. You figure out that the peak resembles a tiny dormant volcano, that is, like a crater, about 200 feet across. It is warm within, as heat radiates from the ground. Within, it is like a wildflower garden, with ground cover and patches of wildflowers. It is not laid out like a formal garden, there is no rhyme or reason to the way the plants grow, but it is very clearly tended, and you could easily walk within it, as the flowers, grasses, and ivies never rise more than a foot high. Every flower has at least a hint of red ... a hue of crimson. At the center, in a grassy circle 30 feet in diameter, is the altar, a slab of stone 10 ft x 10 ft x 2.5 ft high. It looks like a slab of polished red granite.
To enter the caldera, you will have to climb over the lip of the crater and then descend. This lip is not jagged, but it goes up ten feet, then over ten feet, then down ten feet. It will require a DC10 climb check to ascend, and then another to descend.
Jess- Frit -- AC 16/15/13 -- CMD 21 -- HP 43/43 (16 nonlethal damage) d20+9=27 ; Thursday August 1st, 2024 9:53:04 AM
Frit thanks Aymar for using his paladin gifts to help him.
Upon reaching the peak of the mountain, Frit sucks in a breath. He was expecting more rock and snow and ice and cold, not this. Not something so beautiful. Still, he scans the area for danger before proceeding.
Trusting that Aymar will help Ingrida to lead the way, Frit follows, helping Kaida and Nora to scale the crater's lip.
OOC Perception 27 Climb 18 (take 10)
Hamlin Vashtel (Brent Adams) -- AC 13/13/10 -- CMD 13 -- HP 19/19 Thursday August 1st, 2024 11:28:44 AM
Hamlin will offer to cast Barkskin on Ingrida this will give her a +2 natural armor bonus for the next 40 minutes.
Spencer Holloway Nadia Silvershield AC 19/13/15 HP 39/39 Thursday August 1st, 2024 1:55:54 PM
Nadia is grateful to Aydi for the help and leading them all on the right path. She was not certain she would have been as surefooted as he was scouting ahead, she was more a solid ground type of dwarf.
" Never doubt one of those faithful I suppose. Though nature more my calling, I suppose you are an alright sort there Aymar. I guess we can keep you around for a few more days." Nadia jokes as the paladin heals her and the others of the fatigue they were feeling, though the cold still was biting into her.
" As for this wall we have here.. think some one should go down it first? Seems awful convenient for things suddenly, and we may have had good days, but we had just as many rough days. I do not trust this really. Seems too easy."
StephenT - Aydi Alzila -- AC 19/16/16 -- CMD 18 -- HP 36/36 d20+5=23 ; d3=1 ; d20+12=23 ; d20+12=15 ; d20+14=17 ; Thursday August 1st, 2024 2:32:44 PM
Aydi will climb up and down (Climb 23) and do a quick scout ahead. He will look for our final destination and see if there are signs of other things up here as well as any danger.
OOC Climb 23 Perception 23 Survival 15 Stealth 17
MM - Eleonora Deepmine -- AC 17 -- CMD 12 -- HP 23/23 d20+6=26 ; Thursday August 1st, 2024 3:56:25 PM
Nora tries to pull herself up a bit on the wall. "As hard as always, and the armor is preventing my movement", she says as she drops back down. "Well... I don't need to wear it at all times, and with Flower's blessing, maybe?" She removes her armor, packs it up, and says a quick prayer to Flower. "This should work" she says, and carefully climbs up the lip, helped more by Frit's aid. "Thank you Frit, now let's wait our scout's report" she says, and herself takes out her crossbow, keeping an eye out for any trouble Aydi might find.
----------------------- OOC: Remove armor + cast Guidance to get check to +0. Take 10 to get up on the lip. AC 14 until putting armor back. Perception 26 to see any dangers.
Dominik - Aymar Shakhtar -- AC 20/16/17 -- CMD 21 -- HP 30/30 d20+2=20 ; Thursday August 1st, 2024 7:19:00 PM
Aymar helps Ingrida up and over the first lip. They will wait on the flat until they get an all clear from Aydi. He will take a moment to re-assure Ingrida, "You made it. Your son would be so proud of you, I know I am. Many would have quit several times over. But you have shown your resolve and your commitment to being a better person. No matter what happens from here, you have my support and my friendship."
RobC - Kaida Shadowplay -- AC 13/13/11 -- CMD 11 -- HP 24/24 d20-1=3 ; d20-1=11 ; Thursday August 1st, 2024 8:54:38 PM
Kaida desperately tries to reach the lip but her little arms just aren't long enough and she keeps slipping. She has little chance of making it up. "Any chance someone could pull me up?"
----------- Climb check vs DC10: 3 = Fail! Climb check vs DC10: 11 = Pass! Highlight to display spoiler: {Posting on phone at the moment but just realised I haven't updated the header with Kaida's new sheet. I'll fix that later}
The Peak - DM Cayzle Thursday August 1st, 2024 10:37:38 PM
Frostbite Status: Nadia 5 hp nonlethal damage. Frit 16 hp nonlethal damage. Hamlin 15 hp nonlethal damage.
[OOC: After rereading the map, let me clarify: To go up the lip there are places that are a five foot climb, and others where there is a ten-foot climb. And once you are up, there is NO steep climb to go down. The grade descending to the center is very very gradual.]
Some heroes are nimble, and others realize that with help and taking a moment (taking 10), getting over the lip is really no challenge. If you were in danger, in combat, perhaps that would not be as true!
On investigation of the top of the mpuntain, you see that there is a path, the intended path, that you SHOULD have taken on the way up! You really lost your way in the storm! The path requires no climbing at all, and there are steps, easy for dwarven legs!
You see the altar at the center, your destination.
Here is a map of the top of the mountain. No one has yet entered the meadow.
Some are up on the lip, others still below.Look at the map and place yourselves. Path or otherwise? If you step over the lip into the meadow, say so, and where!
Spencer Holloway Nadia Silvershield AC 19/13/15 HP 39/39 Thursday August 1st, 2024 11:08:40 PM
Nadia, with her shar dwarven eyes, and sharp dwarven wit, points and says " Look, someone has cut a pathway, and even put stairs! Do they not know the joy and fun of adventures is to take the path least trended? They must have no sense of journey. Thank Fhorge we did not fall into the trap of laziness and take the easy way. We forged our own pathway!" This is followed by a slight chuckle, because she would then start to climb down from where they are. Why would they start taking the easy way here now, that would take the fun from everything. Stone seems to not be bothered either way, having been able to jump that 10 feet without help, and seems amused that there are members who struggle.
RobC - Kaida Shadowplay -- AC 13/13/11 -- CMD 12 -- HP 32/32 Friday August 2nd, 2024 3:11:46 AM
Kaida dusts off her hands and then brushes the dirt from her pants. She looks to Nadia, sure that she must be joking, and then heads towards the path. She shakes her head. Gnomes just aren't built for climbing. "Do you want to head to the path as well Ingrida?" she offers to escort the woman.
It then occurs to Kaida: she still has to climb back down off this mountain. The gnomish girl looks upwards and groans as she scuffs her feet on the ground, behaving much like a child who's been told it's time to clean their room.
---------- Heading to F24 first, then follow 10ft behind anyone else if they want to enter the clearing
Jess- Frit -- AC 16/15/13 -- CMD 21 -- HP 43/43 (16 nonlethal damage) Friday August 2nd, 2024 7:50:32 AM
Frit responds to Kaida's request for help, his hand grabbing her much smaller one as he pulls her up.
"This meadow is, um, a scared space. I, uh, I don't know what we're supposed to do, but, um, we m--, uh, might want to avoid blundering into it. Unless that, um, what you think Domi wants from Ingrida and, uh, us?"
He waits until those who have more knowledge of gods and sacraments and rituals to decide what to do, and he will follow them.
Hamlin Vashtel (Brent Adams) -- AC 13/13/10 -- CMD 13 -- HP 19/19 Friday August 2nd, 2024 12:00:17 PM
"Way I see it Forge wants us here so it must all be sacred. I don't think we will transgress by supporting her all the way to the top" (Hamlin will head to F26 and prepare to support Ingrida)
StephenT - Aydi Alzila -- AC 19/16/16 -- CMD 18 -- HP 36/36 d20+12=27 ; Friday August 2nd, 2024 5:25:30 PM "I think it is pretty clear right now I will stay off the path just making sure we are safe. After we are done with our real tasks maybe we should take advantage and rest and go back down tomorrow maybe using the path. I really do not want to experience a fall like what I almost went though." Aydi chimes in.
He will lead the group and keep his eyes open for danger.
OOC Perception 27
StephenT - Aydi Alzila -- AC 19/16/16 -- CMD 18 -- HP 36/36 Friday August 2nd, 2024 5:27:11 PM Aydi will head toward the path K22
The Peak - DM Cayzle Friday August 2nd, 2024 8:37:10 PM
Frostbite Status: Nadia 5 hp nonlethal damage. Frit 16 hp nonlethal damage. Hamlin 15 hp nonlethal damage.
Nadia makes light of the party’s struggle to get here, laughing.
Kaida and Ingrida head to the path.
Frit awaits guidance on what to do in a sacred place.
Hamlin thinks that it is ok to enter the meadow. That’s why the party came here, after all.
Aydi heads over the lip and into the meadow (you say you are moving to K22).
Everyone else watches.
Aydi, just before you set foot on the grass, please make a DC14 Will save or flee down the mountain. This is a fear effect.
Dominik - Aymar Shakhtar -- AC 20/16/17 -- CMD 21 -- HP 30/30 Friday August 2nd, 2024 9:02:33 PM
Aymar stands in awe of the altar before collecting his emotions. He assess the situation, we would do well to respect Domi. He will draw his weapon, as he anticipates there could be a contest of courage. He will also call out to Nora, "Nora, sing a song about great deeds and honor, this will please Domi." He will follow Kaida and Ingrida over to the path and will step out on to the meadow ahead of them.
StephenT - Aydi Alzila -- AC 19/16/16 -- CMD 18 -- HP 36/36 d20+3=11 ; d20+3=17 ; Friday August 2nd, 2024 10:44:17 PM
Aydi feeling the power of the area starts to feels like he needs to run. He takes a deep breath steadied himself and continues on doing what he can to protect the group. He will make his way to the path and wait for the rest of the group.
OOC Will Save 11 HP Will Save 17
Spencer Holloway Nadia Silvershield AC 19/13/15 HP 39/39 Friday August 2nd, 2024 11:11:35 PM
Nadia will send a prayer to Fhorge, and start to make her way following the rest of the party. "Domi may have this area, but Fhorge guards the mountains whole. Both are present here for the most part, and there should be balance. Part of that is having ready for peace and war." In contrast to Aymar, Nadia will proceed down without arming herself, to keep a balance
RobC - Kaida Shadowplay -- AC 13/13/11 -- CMD 12 -- HP 32/32 d20+2=12 ; Saturday August 3rd, 2024 2:30:09 AM "Thanks Frit" Getting up was a lot easier with his help.
Kaida takes Ingrida's arm. "No point standing about. Shall we?" She nods towards the altar and then follows Aymar's lead.
---------- Move: Follow behind Aymar to I24 Perception: 12
Jess- Fritjof -- AC 15/15/13 -- CMD 19 -- HP 27/43 (16 nonlethal damage) d20+7=11 ; d20+7=20 ; Saturday August 3rd, 2024 8:00:17 AM
Frit moves cautiously behind Aymar and Kaida (to G 24) on the path toward the alter. He bows his head in respect to whatever gods have claimed this place as theirs.
OOC I got ahead of myself and shouldn't have rolled Frit's Will saves for this post, but I did, so I'll just carry these over for when he needs them, if that's okay. Will Save 11 HP Will Save 20
MM - Eleonora Deepmine -- AC 17 -- CMD 12 -- HP 23/23 Sunday August 4th, 2024 6:00:47 PM "I can't remember any song that has especially Domi, Fhorge and Flower, but what about the one calling for responsibilities of every god, of the Gods of Wold, and working together?" Nora asks. She puts away her crossbow, takes out her lute and starts playing and singing the song: "For all the gods, each in their place, looking over the mortal realm..."
She pauses for a moment when seeing Aydi shaking. "What did you feel, Aydi?", she asks, then quickly continues her song of prayer.
------------------------ OOC: If Aydi (or someone else) starts running in fear, cast Remove Fear on them. Position: Move to G23, up and right of K on the map. On the lip, but not on grass yet.
The Peak - DM Cayzle Monday August 5th, 2024 10:58:25 AM
Aymar tries to step into the meadow. As a fearless paladin, he succeeds, and steps into the meadow. The flower beds are lovely, and the ground warms the air above.
Aydi pauses, overcomes his fear, and steps in as well.
Nadia steps into the meadow without issue, not sure what the fuss is all about.
Kaida follows close behind Aymar. Or rather, she will if she makes a DC14 Will save vs fear, with the usual +4 for being next to the paladin. If she fails, she runs in terror down the mountain.
Frit tries to follow as well. Walking within the protection of the paladin’s aura, he barely resists the fear, but resist it he does, entering the meadow.
Nora stands ready to remove fear, but so far that is not needed -- depending on Kaida’s save!
INSIDE the meadow: Aymar, Aydi, Nadia, and Frit.
OUTSIDE: All animal companions, Nora, Ian, Hamlin, Ingrida.
UNKNOWN: Kaida??
Jess- Fritjof -- AC 15/15/13 -- CMD 19 -- HP 27/43 (16 nonlethal damage) Monday August 5th, 2024 11:33:41 AM
Frit steps on the grass, and a sense of overwhelming fear takes hold of him, the kind of fear that he has not experienced since he was little, after his mother's death, finding himself completely alone in the world. He begins to tremble, his breath sharp and fast, sweat prickling on his brow, as panic rises within him. But Aymar's presence calms him, and he gets control of his breathing, momentarily closing his eyes and practicing a slow, controlled in- and exhale to try to center himself. As the group proceeds into the meadow, he sticks close to his friend and the calm that seems to almost radiate off of him.
StephenT - Aydi Alzila -- AC 19/16/16 -- CMD 18 -- HP 36/36 Monday August 5th, 2024 12:38:40 PM "Nora I felt rage and anger like I have not felt for a long time." Something kinda of clicks at the back of his mind that there was a time. He shakes his head and focuses on what is infront of him. Aydi will move close to Aymar feeling a bit of calming presence.
Aydi will look to his friends "I almost ran there. I just felt like I was being pushed aside. Almost like I am not welcome here. Aymar do you know of anything that would cause this?"
Hamlin Vashtel (Brent Adams) -- AC 13/13/10 -- CMD 13 -- HP 19/19 d20+6=13 ; Monday August 5th, 2024 2:34:42 PM
"Okay time to head into this meadow..." Will save 13= fail. Hamlin steps one foot into the meadow and feels an intense sense of trepidation and believes that he has angered Wardd holding onto his lucky platnum piece he turns tail and runs 30 feet off the meadow attempting to get out of here.
MM - Eleonora Deepmine -- AC 17 -- CMD 12 -- HP 23/23 Monday August 5th, 2024 4:45:52 PM
Nora continues her song of prayer: "...and the gods said", she changes language but mixes it to the song: "Pelko pois!" waving her fingers, the divine magic suppressing the fear on Hamlin, and then continues back into the song without a pause: "lifting our spirits, bringing us hope..."
-------------------------- OOC: Cast Remove Fear (bard) on Hamlin. 10 min fear suppressed.
Dominik - Aymar Shakhtar -- AC 20/16/17 -- CMD 21 -- HP 30/30 Monday August 5th, 2024 7:47:19 PM
Aymar hears Aydi, "Domi is the God of Courage. You must prove your mettle to garner his blessing." He sees Hamlin begin to run but Nora does well to help him. He will then look at those that have not entered. "Do not fear, it is but her first test and I will stand with you."
{OOC: He stays in J24 to make sure all can use his aura to help them.}
RobC - Kaida Shadowplay -- AC 13/13/11 -- CMD 12 -- HP 32/32 d20+8=14 ; Monday August 5th, 2024 8:52:54 PM
Kaida keeps Ingrida close by her side. "This is what we're here for" she reminds the woman.
She looks over her shoulder and is surprised to see someone running. "Hey, where's Hamlin going?"
----------- Will Save vs DC14: 14=Pass!
The Peak - DM Cayzle Tuesday August 6th, 2024 5:50:36 AM
Frit, bolstered by the paladin, has entered the meadow.
Aydi asks about possible causes of this fear effect.
Kaida and Ingrida enter without any problem. Kaida shudders as she passes over. Ingrida, like Nadia, is completely unaffected. Ingrida says softly, “Praise Domi” as she looks around.
Hamlin tries to enter, but the fear is too much!
Luckily Nora takes his fear from him. [OOC: The spell affects two targets at 4th level. Who else benefits?]
Aymar stands so that any passing over the lip and attempting to enter will benefit from his aid.
[OOC: Note that the +4 from the Remove Fear spell and the +4 from the paladin’s aura of courage are both morale bonuses, so they do not stack.]
Both animal companions, Hamlin, Nora, and Ian remain outside. [OOC: We’ll let Ian stand guard outside until Jason returns to the game.]
RobC - Kaida Shadowplay -- AC 13/13/11 -- CMD 12 -- HP 32/32 Tuesday August 6th, 2024 8:37:01 AM
Kaida and Ingrida will follow behind Aymar. Wherever he goes, they'll follow right behind.
"It's actually quite lovely here" She nods as she looks about the meadow. "And much easier to travel"
Hamlin Vashtel (Brent Adams) -- AC 13/13/10 -- CMD 13 -- HP 19/19 Tuesday August 6th, 2024 1:24:10 PM
"Thank you Nora. I don't know what came over me. This place is definitely a place of power. It cannot be denied" Hamlin will try to walk into the meadow again.
MM - Eleonora Deepmine -- AC 17 -- CMD 12 -- HP 23/23 d20+12=17 ; Tuesday August 6th, 2024 2:32:55 PM
Nora watches her friends walking toward the middle of the meadow. She pauses her song, takes a deep breath, and prays: "Bless me, Flower, give me courage" and enters the meadow with the help of Aymar's aura.
----------- OOC: Cast guidance on herself. Will save +7 base +4 aura +1 guidance roll 5, total 17. Nora's caster level on Remove Fear is only 3, from bard. So only 1 target.
StephenT - Aydi Alzila -- AC 19/16/16 -- CMD 18 -- HP 36/36 Tuesday August 6th, 2024 6:25:33 PM
Aydi looks at his fellow companion and gets the feeling that right now Yuki does not feel right coming over the crater. He knows if needed should would come to my side in an instant. "I can feel Yuki's desire to stay where she is I will not push forward and if need be she will come if I need her to. Also if anyone feels the urge to flee again I might have something that will help" Aydi says while pulling out amagic cookie.
Jess- Fritjof -- AC 15/15/13 -- CMD 19 -- HP 27/43 (16 nonlethal damage) d20+9=18 ; Tuesday August 6th, 2024 8:16:11 PM
Frit looks around the meadow for any potential danger.
"So, um, what happens now?" he say, looking to Ingrida, hoping she has the answers. "Do you know what is, uh, supposed to happen now that we're here? I've, um, never done anything like, uh, this before. Though some of the others m--might have a better idea." If Ingrida doesn't know, he turns to some of the other, more knowledgable members of the group.
Perception- 18
Dominik - Aymar Shakhtar -- AC 20/16/17 -- CMD 21 -- HP 30/30 Tuesday August 6th, 2024 8:35:48 PM
Aymar makes sure everyone has entered the meadow before the group continues. He agrees that having someone stay back may be a good idea. "Let us approach Domi's altar without fear." He will move forward when everyone is ready.
Spencer Holloway Nadia Silvershield AC 19/13/15 HP 35/35 Tuesday August 6th, 2024 10:33:35 PM
Nadia is greatly confused by her companions running away, and looks over to Ingrid, asking her in a quiet voice " Did we do something wrong? Why are they afraid? Do I smell? I swear I tried to bathe the best I could, but snow is a bit hard to bathe in." She is unsure how to help, as she has no spells ready for fear effects.
Hamlin Vashtel (Brent Adams) -- AC 13/13/10 -- CMD 13 -- HP 19/19 Wednesday August 7th, 2024 12:58:06 PM
"I imagine Ingrida must approach the altar and say a prayer. Perhaps she will be further tested."
MM - Eleonora Deepmine -- AC 17 -- CMD 12 -- HP 23/23 Wednesday August 7th, 2024 5:26:37 PM "I'm not quite sure what to do, as the altar is for Domi who's not my deity... maybe the song for all the gods is the best thing to do?" Nora wonders about religion, then continues her song: "Together, for all the peoples, they give their blessings..."
The Peak - DM Cayzle Wednesday August 7th, 2024 6:11:03 PM
Keeping close to Aymar, Kaida and Ingrida look around. “This is how I’ve heard of this place,” says Ingrida. “But I felt no fearfulness!”
Nadia wonders what all the fear is about. She covers her nervousness with a witty remark.
Hamlin enters, with magical fear suppression. Perhaps you wonder ... What will happen when the Remove spell wears out?
Nora tries to enter and does so effortlessly. The fear affect does not touch her. She cannot even choose to fail her save -- no save is required. Like Nadia and Ingrida, she feels no fear at all.
Aydi has Yuki stay outside the peak with Ian. Stone too, so far as the DM can tell.
Frit looks around the meadow but sees no danger. Lots of scattered flower beds. Short grass. The slab of crimson stone (the altar?) at the center. And, oh wait! There is a statue of a kneeling dwarf about 20 ft north by northeast of the altar. [Marked S on the map]
So far no one has moved more than 10-20 feet from the entrance. Aymar is standing right at the entrance, so as to help others walk in. But now everybody who wants to enter has done so.
Frit asks Ingrida what to do.
“The children’s letters go on the altar, she says. “And I think I have to go there too.”
Hamlin recalls that she is correct. He mentions further testing for her. At that, Ingrida looks very nervous.
Aymar agrees that it is time to approach -- and asks if everybody is ready to go the altar. Does anyone object if Aymar moves closer to the altar?
Nora sings a non-denominational prayer for all the Gods of the Wold. That seems a safe way forward.
Frostbite Status: Nadia 5 hp nonlethal damage. Frit 16 hp nonlethal damage. Hamlin 15 hp nonlethal damage.
Jess- Fritjof -- AC 15/15/13 -- CMD 19 -- HP 27/43 (16 nonlethal damage) Thursday August 8th, 2024 3:40:07 PM
Before Aydi moves closer to the alter, Frit points out the statue to the other members of the group. "Seems, um, a strange place for a statue. In, um, relation to the, uh, alter, I mean. And for there to, um, only be one." Although his fear has passed, Frit continues to feel anxious. He wonders if it is because he does not worship Domi. Perhaps this place is not for him.
What is the size of the statue? What is the praying dwarf wearing? How old is it (does it look weathered)?
MM - Eleonora Deepmine -- AC 14 (with armor 18) -- CMD 15 -- HP 28/28 d20+8=23 ; Thursday August 8th, 2024 3:56:25 PM "...and people's spirits are raised, their troubles lifted..." Nora continues singing and playing while walking toward the altar, but she notices Frit looking at the dwarf statue and also fixates on it.
---- OOC: Perception 23 (+6 skill, +2 stonecunning) to notice unusual stonework from the statue. When walking towards altar, keep with the group, but at the back.
Hamlin Vashtel (Brent Adams) -- AC 13/13/10 -- CMD 13 -- HP 19/19 Thursday August 8th, 2024 5:00:18 PM
Hamlin will give a prayer to Warrdd for Ingridas sake and encourage her forward. " This can be a positive experience for you. I just hope you are open to it"
StephenT - Aydi Alzila -- AC 19/16/16 -- CMD 18 -- HP 36/36 Thursday August 8th, 2024 5:45:28 PM
Aydi looks at statue a bit too with Frit. Just out of a precaution Aydi will cast detect magic on the statue knowing this might be futile with where they are. "Frit what would you think if the statue was part of the test? I have heard of stories where such things come alive, granted that was old legends" Aydi says.
Dominik - Aymar Shakhtar -- AC 20/16/17 -- CMD 21 -- HP 30/30 Thursday August 8th, 2024 6:59:45 PM
Aymar approaches the altar within 20 feet, where he will stop and kneel. He will urge the others to stay back and have Ingrida approach on her own. "We are here to support you but you must take the last steps yourself. Your faith has allowed you to make it this far and it will carry you to the end."
RobC - Kaida Shadowplay -- AC 13/13/11 -- CMD 12 -- HP 32/32 Thursday August 8th, 2024 8:19:16 PM
Kaida keeps close behind Aymar. She stops where he says to and fishes the box of letters from her backpack. Best to let Ingrida do her thing first - whatever that might be.
The Peak - DM Cayzle Thursday August 8th, 2024 10:17:58 PM
Frit alerts his friends and looks more closely at the statue. It is not lifelike, like a basilisk-cursed person, but it is not crude either. It is clearly a dwarf, dwarf sized, carved to be wearing pants and a blacksmith’s apron, bare feet. It is not particularly weathered.
The half-orc feels nervous here in this place devoted to Domi.
Nora walks toward the altar, singing. Taking a double move, she gets, say, 40 ft closer. Let me know if you are ok with your map location.
Hamlin urges Ingrida to move towards the altar too, and she does so, walking next to Nora.
Aydi casts Detect Magic, but he is not even close enough. You need to be within 60 feet.
Nora and Ingrida have walked 40 ft closer to the altar. Frit and Aydi are still within 20 ft of the edge, looking at the statue over there. Hamlin is standing with them. Nadia has not acted yet.
Then Aymar walks forward, but when he steps 25 feet from the edge, the statue rises to its feet, and an identical statue appears RIGHT in front of Aymar! It holds its hands out to indicate STOP!
Aymar, if you choose to walk around it, continuing towards the altar, you will provoke an AoO. Do you keep walking?
Kaida is right on Aymar’s heels, but so far has not walked more than 20 ft from the edge. Will she move forward? Or stop? Or something else?
Let’s put characters on the map and go to combat rounds, please. Also, when you move, please mention whether you are walking through flower beds or no.
Frostbite Status: Nadia 5 hp nonlethal damage. Frit 16 hp nonlethal damage. Hamlin 15 hp nonlethal damage.
RobC - Kaida Shadowplay -- AC 13/13/11 -- CMD 12 -- HP 32/32 Friday August 9th, 2024 3:52:03 AM
Kaida takes a step back and gulps. Where did that statue come from? Maybe this meadow isn't as nice as she first thought.
The gnomish girls holds up the box for the statue to see.
"I have letters of the utmost importance that must be delivered to Domi!" She opens the lid of the box for the briefest of moments "See?"
She isn't sure if the statue understands what she's saying, but either way she doesn't want to be this close to it.
Kaida clutches the box of letters tightly and tries to move around a little ways to the south
------------ Move: Move to M29
Spencer Holloway Nadia Silvershield AC 19/13/15 HP 35/35 Friday August 9th, 2024 7:36:37 AM
Nadia stops for a moment and calls out to the group. "Wait! Perhaps it must be us. Those of a Dwarven blood. Stay to the path, and we shall all gather back, and let us go forward. Perhaps this is why the other group travel here. We should have asked have they ever took anyone not a dwarf."
Jess- Fritjof -- AC 15/15/13 -- CMD 19 -- HP 27/43 (16 nonlethal damage) Friday August 9th, 2024 5:59:58 PM
Frit nods, seeing the wisdom of Nadia's suggestion. "Something here doesn't want us--or at least, um, some of us--to move too far into this place," he says, eyeing the statue that has risen in front of Aymar. "It seems, um, best to, uh, proceed carefully."
StephenT - Aydi Alzila -- AC 19/16/16 -- CMD 18 -- HP 36/36 d20+12=29 ; Friday August 9th, 2024 6:10:41 PM "We can stay here on the path (N24) if you need anything we are here." Aydi will also do a perception check to make sure there is no further danger. He will also grab his shortsword be ready for an attack.
ooc Move to N24 Perception 29
Dominik - Aymar Shakhtar -- AC 20/16/17 -- CMD 21 -- HP 30/30 Friday August 9th, 2024 7:26:53 PM
Aymar was caught off guard by the statue and goes into battle stance. Nadia speaks up before Aymar does something he may regret. He will relax from his stance, "Perhaps we should give Nadia the box of letters to deliver." He will kneel down, place his sword on the ground in front of him and begin to offer prayers to Domi.
The Peak - DM Cayzle d20+16=30 ; Friday August 9th, 2024 11:16:43 PM
Kaida tries reasoning with the statue blocking Aymar. It does not respond to her words or gestures. She moves south but stays within 20 ft of the edge.
Nadia suggests that it only responds to those who have no dwarven blood!
Frit urges caution.
Aydi is ready for danger but urges his friends to stand back. Not taking his own advice, he steps forward into the meadow toward N24. He steps to M23, and a new statue appears at N24. It holds up its hands.
Aymar kneels, disarms, and prays. But he does not back away.
The statue before him attempts a grapple. Aymar’s CMD is 22. The statue is +14 to grapple, but since Aymar is kneeling, the DM gives a +2 bonus. It’s grapple attempt hits CMD30, so Aymar is grappled.
The statue has a CMD 22.
Frostbite Status: Nadia 5 hp nonlethal damage. Frit 16 hp nonlethal damage. Hamlin 15 hp nonlethal damage.
Dominik - Aymar Shakhtar -- AC 20/16/17 -- CMD 21 -- HP 30/30 d20+6=8 ; Saturday August 10th, 2024 6:49:03 PM
Aymar was surprised by the actions of the statue. He struggles to reach for his sword but he is unsuccessful. He decides that as long as the creature is not actively trying to hurt him, he will just stay put.
Hamlin Vashtel (Brent Adams) -- AC 13/13/10 -- CMD 13 -- HP 19/19 d20+8=20 ; Sunday August 11th, 2024 4:02:11 PM
Move to M27. "Um perhaps Ingridia needs to approach it? I'm not sure what's going on?" Roll to understand religion. Religion check equals 20
RobC - Kaida Shadowplay -- AC 13/13/11 -- CMD 12 -- HP 32/32 Sunday August 11th, 2024 8:15:17 PM
Kaida stows the box of letters back in her kit. "You ok Aymar? How do you want to play this?"
She can see that he's stuck and she doesn't want to escalate the situation and make things worse for him - unless that's what he wants.
------------ Move: Put box of letters in her pack
Jess- Fritjof -- AC 15/15/13 -- CMD 19 -- HP 27/43 (16 nonlethal damage) Monday August 12th, 2024 4:31:49 AM
Seeing that Aymar is staying put, Frit does the same. His friend knows far more about the gods and their will and their ways than he does, and if Aymar is not fighting the statue, perhaps he believes that it is part of a test of some sort that Frit doesn't want to make a mess of. He'll wait for Aymar's response to Kaida before acting.
MM - Eleonora Deepmine -- AC 14 (with armor 18) -- CMD 15 -- HP 28/28 Monday August 12th, 2024 5:25:09 AM
Nora looks at the statue grabbing Aymar with surprise, and stops her song. "Kaida, if Nadia is right and only dwarves can come, you should stay there. I'll come get the letters!" she shouts to Kaida, and runs to her to get the pack of letters.
----------- OOC: Move to Kaida. With 20 move it's full round to get there I think.
StephenT - Aydi Alzila -- AC 19/16/16 -- CMD 18 -- HP 36/36 Monday August 12th, 2024 12:01:33 PM
Aydi will take a step back and wait hoping to leave here without a fight.
Spencer Holloway Nadia Silvershield AC 19/13/15 HP 35/35 Monday August 12th, 2024 2:23:42 PM
Nadia waits before doing anything more given the statue did just grab a party member. But that was it, just grabbed him from what she can tell. " Is it hurting you by any chance?! If not, this may not be a test by Domi, but rather Fhorge, given these are his mountains. Balance in all things, to the fact the balance here is.... Only one race may enter? Though that too seems unbalanced."
Nadia would wait, but if nothing violent happens, she will make her way to the path and then start down the path to the clearing, to see how the statues react to her.
Hamlin Vashtel (Brent Adams) -- AC 13/13/10 -- CMD 13 -- HP 19/19 Monday August 12th, 2024 5:11:57 PM
"I can agree with that sentiment perhaps if the Dwarves go first that will appease Domi in some way"
How do you want to play this? - DM Steve d20+19=32 ; d20+14=26 ; Monday August 12th, 2024 8:58:00 PM Aymar is unable to reach his sword, so tries staying put.
Hamlin suggests maybe Ingrida should approach. Hamlin knows nothing about Domi that would explain this, except perhaps that Domi favors wrestling. He agrees with the suggestion that dwarves go first.
Kaida asks how Aymar is doing as she re-stows the letters.
Frit, like Aymar, stays put.
Nora stops singing. She suggests Kaida stay and goes to get the letters.
Aydi steps back, hoping to avoid a fight.
Nadia asks if the statue is hurting Aymar. She thinks maybe this is not Domi acting, and waits for a moment before moving into the hollow.
Indgrida stops when Nora leaves, unsure whether to proceed or turn back.
The statue grappling Aymar pushes him back while maintaining it's hold. It does not move fast, though, getting only 10' or so.
The statue in front of Aydi closes the distance and attempts to grapple him, successfully. Aydi gains the grappled condition.
A statue appears in front of Kaida.
Ok, I don't have edit permissions for the map, we'll track people's positions as I understand them here: Aymar is at K26, pushed there by the statue grappling him. Hamlin is at K22, having walked into the hollow but not moving since. Kaida is at M29, and a statue appears in front of her. Frit is at L23. Nora moves from R25 to O28, but has still not reached Kaida. Aydi steps 5' back to L22. Nadia moves to O24. Ingrida is at R24. Statues are at L26 (grappling Aymar), M22 (grappling Aydi), and N29 (threatening Kaida).
I will try to set up a new map tomorrow, pending chores.
Dominik - Aymar Shakhtar -- AC 20/16/17 -- CMD 21 -- HP 30/30 Monday August 12th, 2024 11:06:07 PM
Aymar considers his options but feels its best not to upset the balance of the sacred area. He will allow the statue to move it with little resistance. "I'm good, its not hurting me at the moment. I would suggest not engaging."
Spencer Holloway Nadia Silvershield AC 19/13/15 HP 35/35 Monday August 12th, 2024 11:16:17 PM " If it isnt hurting you.... and it is pushing you back, this is a task that us dwarves must do. Each of us does represent a different view. I think. Perhaps not, but it has not interfered with us moving forward, and so we should do what Drakesmeade is all about. We overcome together. Everyone, give me something of yours, and we will carry us all forward. A small trinket, something, anything might work. Let us show we are together, not divided even as we venture forth." Nadia calls to the group. She feels she has this figured out, but does not want any of the group to be left out. They all helped get them here, it was only right something of theirs was present at the ending. Even if it wasn't the person, the person still should be apart of it.
RobC - Kaida Shadowplay -- AC 13/13/11 -- CMD 12 -- HP 32/32 Tuesday August 13th, 2024 4:35:03 AM "I'm ok Nora. It's up to you if you want to collect the letters. It might be best to get Ingrida to the altar though and complete her task. Hers is more important I think" Kaida is too far out of reach of Nadia to be able to share an item right now.
Kaida really doesn't want to get too close to this statue. If it grapples her she'll never escape it. She doesn't want to be the first to make an attack either though.
She prepares to protect herself if the status gets closer.
-------------- Free: 5ft step to L30 Move action: Retrieve box of letters from pack again Ready action: If the statue pursues her, cast Silent Image to create the illusion of a stone wall between them - 15ft wide
Jess- Fritjof -- AC 15/15/13 -- CMD 19 -- HP 27/43 (16 nonlethal damage) Tuesday August 13th, 2024 3:36:52 PM
After hearing Aymar's reassurances, Frit watches as the statue moves his friend backward. He moves down to L28 to be closer to Kaida and the statue threatening her. He knows that she is more than capable of taking care of herself, but wants to be there to provide backup, should she need it.
As he passes Nadia, he hands her the only thing he carries with him that is not gear: a pouch embroidered with the gavel and sun symbol of Pantheon, which contains the tea leaves he brought with him on this journey--a parting gift from Master Thrissa. "If you, um, think it will help," he says to Nadia, as he moves past her.
Hamlin Vashtel (Brent Adams) -- AC 13/13/10 -- CMD 13 -- HP 19/19 Tuesday August 13th, 2024 4:13:21 PM
Hamlin will move up next to Nadia and give her his lucky platinum piece. "Here may it bring you luck Nadia"
MM - Eleonora Deepmine -- AC 14 (with armor 18) -- CMD 15 -- HP 28/28 Tuesday August 13th, 2024 4:42:37 PM "Ah, well, I got this far, I'll take the letters and join Ingrida" Nora says to Kaida, slightly embarrassed to leave Ingrida alone.
-------------------------------- [OOC]Move action to get to Kaida, another move action to get letters.
StephenT - Aydi Alzila -- AC 19/16/16 -- CMD 18 -- HP 36/36 Tuesday August 13th, 2024 8:20:22 PM
Aydi looks at the statue and will follow Aymars lead. Aydi will also pull out a magic item that he might use.
Spencer Holloway Nadia Silvershield AC 19/13/15 HP 35/35 Tuesday August 13th, 2024 10:50:54 PM
Nadia takes the items from her friends, and says to each one, a bit different, but the message was the same " We are together in this, even if the Gods degree us separate. Family and friends are what make a clan, not blood."
It's not hurting me at the moment. - DM Steve d20+19=34 ; d20+19=23 ; d20=2 ; Tuesday August 13th, 2024 11:15:48 PM Copy of the Map. . .
Aymar asks his fellows not engage the statue grappling him.
Nadia thinks that the dwarves must do this task, since Aymar is not being hurt. But she does not want the others left out of what they're doing, so she asks them to give her something that represents them. Their ability to reach her might be questionable.
Kaida tells Nora she is ok. She steps back and prepares to use a spell to defend herself.
Frit moves down near Kaida, taking a route that lets him pass Nadia. As he passes Nadia, he hands her a pouch.
Hamlin moves to Nadia and gives her his lucky platinum piece.
Nora moves to retrieve the letters from Kaida, momentarily surprised by the appearance of a wall before she realizes it isn't real.
Using one hand because he's grappled, Aydi retrieves an item.
The statues grappling Aymar and Aydi move them ten feet closer to the edge of the hollow. The statue that was in front of Kaida makes what she takes to be a threatening move. When a wall appears in front of it, it turns and walks toward an end of the wall. (It ignores Nora standing "in" the wall.) New statues appear beside Frit and Hamlin, between them and the altar.
Spencer Holloway Nadia Silvershield AC 19/13/15 HP 35/35 Tuesday August 13th, 2024 11:29:28 PM
Nadia would move to get an item from anyone who hadn't passed her anything, but afterwards she would join Nora and Ingrida so they could move together to the altar as a group.
RobC - Kaida Shadowplay -- AC 13/13/11 -- CMD 12 -- HP 32/32 Wednesday August 14th, 2024 8:26:33 AM "This is getting out of hand." Kaida hands Nora the box and then calls out "Ingrida, it looks like you need to do this. Press on!"
---------- Free: 5ft step to K30 Standard: Keep concentration on wall but move it to L29-L31
Jess- Fritjof -- AC 15/15/13 -- CMD 19 -- HP 27/43 (16 nonlethal damage) Wednesday August 14th, 2024 10:26:26 AM
Frit looks over at Aymar and Aydi to make sure that they are both unharmed. He is not sure the nature of these statues and if they are sentient. Nevertheless, he holds his hands up in what he hopes will be interpreted as a non-threatening gesture. He moves 5 feet back away from the statue and the alter to L27. "We mean no harm," he says to the statue. "And w--we also didn't mean to, um, disrespect Domi by, uh, coming here."
MM - Eleonora Deepmine -- AC 14 (with armor 18) -- CMD 15 -- HP 28/28 Wednesday August 14th, 2024 3:53:04 PM "I'll take care of these!" Nora says to Kaida. With the letters in her hand, Nora runs back to Ingrida.
------------------------ OOC: Full action: Run, 80 feet closer to Ingrida.
Hamlin Vashtel (Brent Adams) -- AC 13/13/10 -- CMD 13 -- HP 19/19 Wednesday August 14th, 2024 4:23:50 PM
Hamlin is going back 10 feet away from his statue.
Dominik - Aymar Shakhtar -- AC 20/16/17 -- CMD 21 -- HP 30/30 Wednesday August 14th, 2024 7:24:59 PM
Aymar hopes this statue puts him down soon. "Well, this is not what I was expecting." Aymar says to no one in particular followed by a quick chuckle. He does his best to hide his disappointment at the circumstances.
This is getting out of hand. - DM Steve d20+19=31 ; d20+19=32 ; d20+14=20 ; d20+14=17 ; Wednesday August 14th, 2024 10:58:36 PM Copy of the Map. . .
Nadia goes get an item from anyone who hadn't passed her anything.
Kaida calls out for Ingrida to press on and adjusts the location of the wall between her and the statue.
Frit steps back into some flowers and tries to reason with the statue that appeared in front of him.
Nora takes the letters from Kaida and runs to Ingrida.
Hamlin backs away 10 feet.
Aymar wishes the statue would put him down.
Aydi takes no particular action.
Nadia has gotten items from Frit and Hamlin -- she thinks Aymar and Aydi are likely unable to retrieve items for her at the moment, but Kaida is not wrestling a statue. She is able to reach Kaida this round with a double move.
Statues S1 and S2 continue to push Aymar and Aydi back. Aymar has reached the edge of the hollow, though, and any further back will be on a steep slope down. Aydi is also getting close to an edge.
S3 keeps moving around the "wall" towards Kaida, getting beside her too late to attack this round.
S4 attempts to grapple Frit and S5 moves and attempts to grapple Hamlin. Frit evades S4, but Hamlin is grappled.
Running, Nora could get most of the way to the altar if she weren't stopping by Ingrida. Seeing her run, Ingrida moves toward the altar herself, but at a normal pace. If Nora is going to wait for Nadia, we can retcon this.
StephenT - Aydi Alzila -- AC 19/16/16 -- CMD 18 -- HP 36/36 Wednesday August 14th, 2024 11:11:03 PM
Aydi spaced out when he realized fighting would not help the situation. He let's the statue take him out of the crater. "Well I hope we do not end up at the bottom of the mountain faster then we want to."
Jess- Fritjof -- AC 15/15/13 -- CMD 19 -- HP 27/43 (16 nonlethal damage) d20+8=9 ; Thursday August 15th, 2024 2:01:45 PM
As the statue reaches to grapple him, Frit dodges out of its way. He sees that three of his friends are now grappled, but continue to be unharmed.
"I think we, um, best get out of here," he says to Kaida. "They don't seem to want to hurt us, but they, um, definitely don't want us here." He withdraws from the statue that is currently hectoring him and runs toward the edge of the crater. He reaches it and attempts to climb the steep slope, hoping that he might lend assistance to the others from there. In his haste, he loses his footing and takes a spill down the steep slope.
OOC Climb: 9 (Critical Fail) If there is any fall damage involved, would Frit be able to use Slow Fall to prevent it?
Hamlin Vashtel (Brent Adams) -- AC 13/13/10 -- CMD 13 -- HP 19/19 Thursday August 15th, 2024 4:32:56 PM
"Well we can't really fight them can we"
Dominik - Aymar Shakhtar -- AC 20/16/17 -- CMD 21 -- HP 30/30 Thursday August 15th, 2024 5:31:25 PM
Aymar prepares to be dropped on the other side of the edge. He sees Frit lose his balance and hopes his friend isn't too injured.
Spencer Holloway Nadia Silvershield AC 19/13/15 HP 35/35 Thursday August 15th, 2024 9:46:35 PM
Nadia would take something from Kaida if she gives anything other than the letters, but being unable to reach the others, she does feel bad. She would call out to Nora and Ingrida " Wait a bit, let me get something from all the group. We may be able to walk, but walking alone isn't how we Drakesmeadans do things now is it? We are all together on this. All or none. " Nadia seems to have a strong sense of stubborn when it comes to this.
I hope we do not end up at the bottom of the mountain. - DM Steve d20+19=32 ; Thursday August 15th, 2024 11:16:06 PM
Aydi lets the statue take him out of the hollow. Aydi spaced out when he realized fighting would not help the situation. He let's the statue take him out of the crater. "Well I hope we do not end up at the bottom of the mountain faster then we want to."
Frit tells Kaida they should leave. As he tries to leave he falls. If there is any fall damage involved, would Frit be able to use Slow Fall to prevent it?
Hamlin doesn't think they can fight the statues.
Aymar prepares to be dropped.
Nadia calls for Nora and Ingrida to wait, while she goes to get something to represent each of the party members. She's very stubborn about this.
Nora may decide where she wants to stop or proceed to the altar. She and Ingrida may end up in the range of O24 to AA25.
Kaida may decide to follow Frit's lead or use her wall to slow the statue again. S4 (Frit's statue) shows no interest in Kaida.
The statues grappling them push Aymar and Aydi off the edge. S4 follows after Frit, but does not move as quickly. S3 follows after Kaida, but she is able to avoid it another round. S5 moves Hamlin ten feet closer to the edge of the hollow.
Aymar, Aydi, and Frit all go over the edge. To determine where each ends up and whether/how much damage they take, I need each to roll for a DC 14 reflex save and let me know how many rolls they make before they are successful. Frit's slow fall ability will reduce any damage.
RobC - Kaida Shadowplay -- AC 13/13/11 -- CMD 12 -- HP 32/32 Thursday August 15th, 2024 11:39:16 PM
Racist statues wasn't on the list of things to see today, but the unexpected is to be expected in the Scab.
Kaida withdraws to the safety of the path, handing her dagger over to Nadia. She calls out to Nora and Ingride. "Just keep going! This is your quest!"
She looks to Nadia and gives a slight shake of her head. "The rest of us are getting hurt here. We can't wait much longer and they are right there. If you're wrong and they pursue us, we're going off the mountain"
Kaida had enough trouble getting up here safely, and based on her lack of climbing skills, if she goes off the edge she isn't coming back up.
---------- Full round action: Withdraw to E27
StephenT - Aydi Alzila -- AC 19/16/16 -- CMD 18 -- HP 36/36 d20+6=8 ; Friday August 16th, 2024 6:56:28 AM
While being carried Aydi tries to get ready for the fall he is about to have. He decides to prep one of the seals that he has. He will break the seal of feather fall but not break the feather unless the fall is over 20ft.
OOC Reflex save 8 (nat 2)
Jess- Fritjof -- AC 15/15/13 -- CMD 19 -- HP 27/43 (16 nonlethal damage) d20+5=6 ; d20+5=7 ; d20+5=8 ; d20+5=16 ; Friday August 16th, 2024 9:57:58 AM
Frit is unable to regain his footing and his tumbles down the steep slope.
OOC: Reflex Save 14 4 tries to reach 14. Glad that his slow fall (treat the fall as 20 feet shorter) will help. lol
But seriously, y'all, I think my dice roller is cursed. My last 5 rolls: 1 1 2 3 11
That's an average of like 3.5. Come on, Frit! You're supposed to be good at this stuff.
Dominik - Aymar Shakhtar -- AC 20/16/17 -- CMD 21 -- HP 30/30 d20+6=26 ; Friday August 16th, 2024 1:56:17 PM
Aymar prepares for the drop and times it to perfection. His experience allows him to anticipate when the statue would release him and his body moves instinctively to land safely. "The old body still has it." He seems very proud of himself before looking around and seeing Frit and Aydi having problems. He goes to offer them aid but is unsure what he can do.
------------------------------------------
{Reflex save: 26 (Natural 20)}
Hamlin Vashtel (Brent Adams) -- AC 13/13/10 -- CMD 13 -- HP 19/19 Friday August 16th, 2024 4:09:26 PM
Hamlin will yell. " Go go get to the Altar"
MM - Eleonora Deepmine -- AC 14 (with armor 18) -- CMD 15 -- HP 28/28 Friday August 16th, 2024 4:46:42 PM
Nora hears Nadia's call, and stops when reaching Ingrida. "Let's wait a moment, Nadia wants this to be a group effort", she says to Ingrida. "OK come join us!" Nora shouts to Nadia.
----------------------- OOC: Stop when reached Ingrida, still away from altar.
I hope we do not end up at the bottom of the mountain. - DM Steve d20+19=25 ; Friday August 16th, 2024 11:10:58 PM
Kaida hands a dagger to Nadia before retreating. She's worried the statues might pursue them down the mountain. As Kaida goes over the edge of the hollow onto the slope , she needs to make a reflex save vs DC 15. If she makes it, she reaches E27 without problem. If she does not succeed, please make reflex saves until a DC 14 save is successful, and say how many saves it took.
Aydi falls badly and starts sliding down the slope. The first reflex save fails, but I need to know how many more it takes before Aydi succeeds.
Frit tumbles down the slope. Fortunately, with his monkish training he takes no damage. If Frit makes a DC 15 perception check Highlight to display spoiler: {Frit realizes that there are a few old, brittle bones under the snow here.}
Aymar drops down the slope and catches himself expertly. He goes to offer Frit aid.
Hamlin yells for the other to go to the altar.
Nora waits with Ingrida for Nadia to join them.
Nadia goes around to the stairs rather than attempting the slope while she gathers items from everyone.
The edge of the hollow is very clear, with ice and snow on the slopes outside it and grass and flowers inside.
S1 and S2 stay where they were when Aymar and Aydi went over the edge, as if they are watching. S3 follows Kaida, but doesn't keep up. As Frit leaves the hollow, S4 stops following him. S5 continues pushing Hamlin towards the edge.
RobC - Kaida Shadowplay -- AC 13/13/11 -- CMD 12 -- HP 32/32 d20+3=23 ; Saturday August 17th, 2024 1:03:42 AM
Kaida crosses her arms and sighs. Having dutifully and carefully carried and protected the box of letters, she had been hoping to finish her side quest of delivering them, but it seems the Gods have other ideas. Well, the main thing is that they're getting to where they're supposed to be.
---------- Ref Save vs DC15: 23=Nat20=Pass!
Spencer Holloway Nadia Silvershield AC 19/13/15 HP 35/35 Saturday August 17th, 2024 3:36:11 AM "I may be wrong, but friends never leave each other. I won't have you be forgotten, you made the trek, there should be some memento for that. Even if all it is is your spirit, well wishes, what have you. We all go together." Nadia seems sure that the statues, given they aren't bothering her, will allow her to get to the other two and collect and item from them, and she would return to Nora and Ingrida afterwards.
Nadia seemed to think something here was preventing the others, but surely items they owned wouldn't be an issue.
Jess- Fritjof -- AC 15/15/13 -- CMD 19 -- HP 27/43 (16 nonlethal damage) d20+9=12 ; Saturday August 17th, 2024 9:11:54 AM
Frit slides down the slope, using what control he has over his body to stay loose, distribute his weight, and slow himself. He manages to prevent any physical damage. "Thanks but I'm, um, I'm okay," Frit says to Aymar, not meeting his eyes. He looks far more embarrassed than hurt.
He gets up and dusts himself off, not paying much attention to his surroundings.
OOC Perception-12 (fail--Another 3! Sorry guys, Frit can't seem to do anything right now. lol)
StephenT - Aydi Alzila -- AC 19/16/16 -- CMD 18 -- HP 36/36 d20+6=12 ; d20+6=25 ; d3=1 ; d20+12=13 ; Saturday August 17th, 2024 4:38:23 PM
Aydi takes a hit and gets the wind knocked out of him slides and finally gets his step. He looks around to see if this is more than just a simple test onlyeant for dwarves.
OOC Reflex save 1 12 Reflex Save 2 25 Perception 13 (Nat 1)
Aydi is definitely rolling like junk.
Dominik - Aymar Shakhtar -- AC 20/16/17 -- CMD 21 -- HP 30/30 d20+6=9 ; Saturday August 17th, 2024 6:24:13 PM
After affirming that Frit is ok, he will look around to check on the others. "We should head towards the path, that seems to be the safest area on this side of the edge."
----------------------------------------
{OOC: Perception check of 9, No one is seeing anything, lol}
MM - Eleonora Deepmine -- AC 14 (with armor 18) -- CMD 15 -- HP 28/28 Sunday August 18th, 2024 3:10:58 PM "Noo... I should have been there. I hope they didn't get hurt" Nora moans as she realizes some of her friends have fallen down the side of the mountain.
As Nadia arrives, she nods to both the dwarven women at her side. "Shall we, sisters? I don't know what to expect but Domi isn't so mean that we would be in danger."
StephenT - Aydi Alzila -- AC 19/16/16 -- CMD 18 -- HP 36/36 Sunday August 18th, 2024 9:38:19 PM
You here Aydi yell to Nora,"Carry on with the mission we are okay for now."
Hamlin Vashtel (Brent Adams) -- AC 13/13/10 -- CMD 13 -- HP 19/19 Monday August 19th, 2024 4:07:11 PM
Seeing where this is going Hamlin will voluntarily go off the ledge and onto the next step. Better to go now than be pushed off.
Even if all it is is your spirit, well wishes, what have you... - DM Steve d4=4 ; Monday August 19th, 2024 8:02:32 PM
Kaida sighs and waits.
Nadia explains her reasoning to the others, and gathers tokens from everyone to take to the altar.
Frit tells Aymar he is okay, although he seems a bit embarrased.
Aydi slides a short distance, taking some damage from the slide. (Takes 4 HP damage.) He looks around trying to figure out what's going on. He calls to Nora to carry on.
Aymar suggests the others head back to the path, since it's safe.
Nora hopes the others did not get hurt, worried that they've fallen down the side of the mountain.
Hamlin tries to drop off the edge voluntarily, but the statue maintains its grip until it reaches the point where it can shove him off. He lands on the steps, which are not as treacherous as the slopes to either side.
After collecting tokens, Nadia joins Nora and Ingrida and the three heads to the altar. The rest of the party assembles on the steps, finding that if they concentrate on where they step they can move around the slope without falling (if they were trying to do other things, they would have to make climb checks). The statues retreat a bit, but not far.
The altar itself is a slab of polished granite. There are no symbols, sigils, runes, or carvings of any kind. The edges are gently rounded. It shows no sign of aging or weathering. The colors of the stone itself swirl with veins of red, hues of crimson.
Back down the steps, Ian pokes at something he's spotted in the snow.
RobC - Kaida Shadowplay -- AC 13/13/11 -- CMD 12 -- HP 32/32 Tuesday August 20th, 2024 4:59:18 AM "I don't like this" Kaida furrows her brow. "Something's not right here"
Right now she's hoping this isn't some sort of trap designed only to catch dwarves.
StephenT - Aydi Alzila -- AC 19/16/16 -- CMD 18 -- HP 32/36 d20+14=20 ; d20+13=23 ; Tuesday August 20th, 2024 8:24:32 AM "Neither do I Kaida. Do you think you could find a way to distract the statues? I wonder if we tried to sneak by them we can be ready for any surprise that may come" Aydi will circle the crater to try to find a path to sneak in as well as any signs of traps.
OOC Perception 22 (23 traps) Stealth 20
Jess- Fritjof -- AC 15/15/13 -- CMD 19 -- HP 27/43 (16 nonlethal damage) Tuesday August 20th, 2024 10:28:35 AM
Frit shifts uneasily as Kaida and Aydi speak and anxiously watches as his friend attempts to sneak past the statues. At the moment, still shaken from losing his footing, he doesn't trust enough in his abilities to go with him.
"I, um, I hope it doesn't come to a fight," Frit says, eyeing the statues. "There are a lot of them, and they were strong. I know this is a shrine to Domi, and I, um, I suppose that means we are m---meant to be, uh, brave. But Master Thrissa always said that courage and wisdom must be fast friend, that recklessness isn't daring, it's foolishness."
MM - Eleonora Deepmine -- AC 14 (with armor 18) -- CMD 15 -- HP 28/28 d20+5=19 ; Tuesday August 20th, 2024 3:44:45 PM "Umm... do you know what we should do now?" Nora asks, holding the package of letters.
"Wait, was there a song about this... The snow glows white on the mountain tonight, Not a footprint to be seen? No, that's not it, but something else?", she starts again going through the teachings of the bards.
---------------------------- OOC: Knowledge: Religion 19, 15 if it's not religion for bardic knowledge.
Spencer Holloway Nadia Silvershield AC 19/13/15 HP 35/35 Tuesday August 20th, 2024 3:50:28 PM "I have no idea really what we are supposed to do either. Maybe place the letters first? Maybe Ingrida places them?" Nadia offers.
Hamlin Vashtel (Brent Adams) -- AC 13/13/10 -- CMD 13 -- HP 19/19 d20+8=27 ; Tuesday August 20th, 2024 5:45:12 PM
Hamlin will cast See Invisibility on himself and look up at the area and see if there are any Invisible creatures manipulating things. Perception 27
Even if all it is is your spirit, well wishes, what have you... - DM Steve Tuesday August 20th, 2024 7:43:51 PM Copy of the Map. . .
I suppose that means we are meant to be, uh, brave. - DM Steve Tuesday August 20th, 2024 10:23:34 PM
Kaida thinks something's not right.
Aydi agrees, and wonders about distracting the statues. Or sneaking past. He starts to circle the crater, looking for another path.
Frit is uneasy and does not want to struggle with the statues. He's not feeling confident in his abilities, although he is faster than the statues.
Nora asks what to do with the letters. She thinks probably place them on the altar.
Nadia is not sure what to do next, but supposes they or Ingrida should place the letters.
Hamlin casts a spell on himself and looks about. Highlight to display spoiler: {He does not see anything new with the spell active.}
Aydi moves around the rim of the caldera, a natural wall surrounding the caldera. (OOC: I know it was previously described as a 10' wall surrounding the garden within, but that part of the description isn't actually in the adventure as written. The inside of the rim slopes into the center, or other parts of the module don't make sense.) Aydi can use the wall for concealment, but needs to make a DC 10 climb check to climb the wall and cannot take 10 while concentrating on being stealthy. He also needs to end his movement with concealment in order to maintain the stealth into the next round. While climbing around outside the rim, Aydi moves at 1/4 speed.
Nadia and Nora place the letters on the altar or ask Ingrida to do so. Once they are on the altar, the letters begin to glow and then fade away.
Dominik - Aymar Shakhtar -- AC 20/16/17 -- CMD 21 -- HP 30/30 Tuesday August 20th, 2024 11:17:36 PM "I don't think we should be tempting the god's wrath. Those three are more then capable of finishing the mission." Aymar will watch the dwarves approach the altar.
Jess- Fritjof -- AC 15/15/13 -- CMD 19 -- HP 27/43 (16 nonlethal damage) Wednesday August 21st, 2024 2:20:12 PM
Frit nods at Aymar's words; he knows far more of Gods than Frit does and the suggestion makes sense. "If that is what you feel is, uh, best. We need to show faith not just in the Gods, but, um, in each other," he says.
StephenT - Aydi Alzila -- AC 19/16/16 -- CMD 18 -- HP 32/36 d20+12=19 ; Wednesday August 21st, 2024 4:20:55 PM
Aydi will come back to the group and have Yuki at his side. Watching the 3 in the crater for danger and if any statue starts to focus on the other three.
OOC Perception 19
MM - Eleonora Deepmine -- AC 14 (with armor 18) -- CMD 15 -- HP 28/28 Wednesday August 21st, 2024 4:29:11 PM
Nora watches the letters glow and disappear. "Well... I guess that is a good sign? Hope that they went to the right address."
"Ingrida, now it is your time, just tell me how I can help.", she says.
Hamlin Vashtel (Brent Adams) -- AC 13/13/10 -- CMD 13 -- HP 19/19 Wednesday August 21st, 2024 6:03:57 PM
Hamlin watches with bated breath as they approach the altar.
Dominik - Aymar Shakhtar -- AC 20/16/17 -- CMD 21 -- HP 30/30 Wednesday August 21st, 2024 9:18:25 PM
Aymar yells out, "You got this Ingrida!" He hopes his words of encouragement help her in these moments.
RobC - Kaida Shadowplay -- AC 13/13/11 -- CMD 12 -- HP 32/32 Wednesday August 21st, 2024 9:39:07 PM
Kaida holds her ground and also waits to see what happens.
I suppose that means we are meant to be, uh, brave. - DM Steve Wednesday August 21st, 2024 10:59:57 PM Aymar contents himself with watching the dwarves at the altar. When Ingrida seems ready, he shouts encourangement.
Frit accepts Aymar's assessment.
Aydi returns to the group. He watches the statues to make sure they leave his friends alone.
Nora watches the letters disappear and tells Ingrida it's her time.
Hamlin watches as they approach the altar.
Kaida also waits to see what happens.
Ingrida stands before the altar, unsure of what to do. She prays silently. When she kneels and places a hand on the altar, a deep voice rings out.
“DAUGHTER, TO FIND PEACE AND ATONEMENT, SEEK THE MOUNTAIN HEART. YOU WILL FIND PEACE WHEN THE ORPHAN IS IN YOUR ARMS. SUCCOR THIS CHILD IN MY NAME. I AM DOMI!” The voice sounds like thunder as the god speaks his own name. Then the hollow is silent once more.
After a moment, Ingrida starts crying.
RobC - Kaida Shadowplay -- AC 13/13/11 -- CMD 12 -- HP 32/32 Thursday August 22nd, 2024 1:56:46 AM "You know, if I were a drow, a good trap would be an area that would only allow dwarves into it" Kaida muses to herself. "That way I only catch the prey I want"
Realising she had just been speaking to herself she matter-of-factly says something that may come as a surprise to the others. "I think we should destroy the altar"
She explains her thinking. "Domi wouldn't bless an area where good people are pushed to their deaths after having bravely travelled the Scab. I think he's the opposite. He would embrace those who had the courage to face the dangers of the Scab, especially to help another find absolution in His name. He wouldn't value a persons blood more than their heart" She shakes her head. "It doesn't add up".
"This place is a danger for other travellers that would come this way. The safest thing to do is ensure no-one else is harmed again. Protecting others is His way"
MM - Eleonora Deepmine -- AC 14 (with armor 18) -- CMD 15 -- HP 28/28 d20+6=20 ; Thursday August 22nd, 2024 4:18:12 PM "I... I'm not that sure, not without checking thoroughly before, back at the stronghold... but it is really odd? Why Domi would drive nice people away?", she wonders Kaida's comment.
When Ingrida starts crying, Nora hugs her and tries to comfort her. "There, don't worry, you have been shown a way and we will stand by you to the end. I don't know what or where the mountain heart is, but I'm sure the gods don't give us impossible tasks, we will find that heart."
---------------------- OOC: Diplomacy 20 for getting a comforting tone.
Dominik - Aymar Shakhtar -- AC 20/16/17 -- CMD 21 -- HP 30/30 d20+6=7 ; Thursday August 22nd, 2024 6:19:39 PM
Aymar listens to the booming voice, less caught off guard then months earlier. "An orphan? Mountain heart? This feels like it just got much more complicated then we were lead to believe." He becomes concerned for Ingrida, this must have been hard to hear.
-------------------------------------
{OOC: Knowledge Religion - 7 (Natural 1) }
Hamlin Vashtel (Brent Adams) -- AC 13/13/10 -- CMD 13 -- HP 19/19 d20+8=15 ; d20+8=10 ; Thursday August 22nd, 2024 7:30:23 PM
Hamlin considers Domi's words. The heart of the mountain? Knowledge geography and history about the heart? Geo: 15 history:10. "Perhaps we are meant to go underground or the like? That would fit with a dwarfen god"
Jess- Fritjof -- AC 15/15/13 -- CMD 19 -- HP 27/43 (16 nonlethal damage) Thursday August 22nd, 2024 8:58:53 PM
Frit listens to the others ponder the meaning of Domi's words. "One of the poses that Master Thrissa taught me for meditation, it is called the Mountain Pose. It, um, it builds strength, balance, and stability. It is about grounding yourself so that you are as unmovable as a mountain. As we look for this Mountain Heart and the, um, orphan the voice mentioned, I think we should be strengthening our own hearts as well."
StephenT - Aydi Alzila -- AC 19/16/16 -- CMD 18 -- HP 32/36 d20+6=7 ; d20+8=25 ; d20+6=10 ; Thursday August 22nd, 2024 9:19:50 PM "I hope this is not just a trap for our friends." Aydi will then talk to Hamlin about what he knows about the heart of the mountain.
OOC KN Geography 7 KN Nature 25 KN Local 10 (What he learned from the dwarves back at the stronhold)
This feels like it just got much more complicated. - DM Steve Thursday August 22nd, 2024 11:21:53 PM
Ingrida has no idea what Domi's message means. “Seek the Mountain Heart? What is that? Please, help me figure this out.”
Kaida speculates that the mountaintop is some sort of trap, and suggests destroying the altar.
Nora wonders about Kaida's comment, but moves to comfort Ingrida. She convincingly explains that the gods don't give impossible tasks.
Aymar realizes this must be hard on Ingrida, and mulls over the message.
Hamlin thinks the mountain's heart must be a reference to going underground.
Frit mentions the Mountain Pose from his training. He thinks they should be strengthening their hearts as they search.
Aydi hopes this is not a trap, and talks with Hamlin about the heart of the mountain.
No one is able to think of a religious explanation for the message. There are other dwarven strongholds in the area -- in mountains, of course. No one can remember hearing about any particular caves in the area. Still, they have a nagging feeling they've heard the phrase before.
Having waited with Stone for company (and Yuki for a while), Ian announces that he found something in the snow not far from the path -- a battered helm and a rusted sword. When they look, Stone is gnawing on a bone as well.
Ian feels called to leave. "My friends," Ian says, "we've faced dangers together that I never could have imagined. Through it all, you've been more than allies -- you've been my family. But now, it's time for me to walk a different path. I wish I could stay, but there are questions I need to answer on my own. Know that wherever I go, I'll carry each of you with me in my heart." With that, Ian clasps each of his friends' hands in turn, giving a firm but heartfelt squeeze, before turning and heading down the path, his figure soon disappearing into the misty mountains.
Spencer Holloway Nadia Silvershield AC 19/13/15 HP 35/35 Friday August 23rd, 2024 12:05:57 AM "I know mountains have hearts because where else does the soul of the mountain live? But that doesn't mean what I think it means here. Unless we have to dive deeper into our new home. Maybe?" Nadia queries as she places a calming hand on Ingrida. She was as lost as anyone, and was more out of her element being a druid of the forest, not stones.
RobC - Kaida Shadowplay -- AC 13/13/11 -- CMD 12 -- HP 32/32 Friday August 23rd, 2024 3:58:34 AM
Kaida is distracted from her thoughts about the altar by the realisation that Ian is leaving. "You're leaving us?" she is genuinely upset by the news "But this is only temporary, right? We'll see you back at Drakesmeade soon?". She's hopeful, but his heartfelt squeeze tells her that it's unlikely. Kaida's shoulders droop and her smile fades. She knows that everyone has their own journey to make and they don't always end up in the same place, but that doesn't make this any easier. She waves to Ian as his figure disappears into the distance.
Between the climbing, the cold, and now Ian leaving, she hasn't enjoyed this trip one bit. "Can we go home now?" Kaida asks hopefully. She wants to get back to Drakesmeade to her favorite chair and have a nice warm drink by the fire.
MM - Eleonora Deepmine -- AC 14 (with armor 18) -- CMD 15 -- HP 28/28 Friday August 23rd, 2024 5:24:19 PM "Ian, goodbye, remember you are always welcome back!" Nora says waving at Ian.
"Ingrida, if you don't know right away where to find this heart, let's head back to stronghold and learn more, and prepare. And some of us need a rest from the weather, too."
Jess- Fritjof -- AC 15/15/13 -- CMD 19 -- HP 27/43 (16 nonlethal damage) Friday August 23rd, 2024 5:34:51 PM "I hope you find what, um, you're looking for, my friend," Frit says to Ian. "Maybe when you get back, I'll, uh, I'll finally be able catch one of your arrows."
Frit can't help smiling a little at Kadia's question, because Drakesmeade is home for them. "Yeah. Not looking f-f-forward to the cold climb down, but, um, yeah, let's go home."
StephenT - Aydi Alzila -- AC 19/16/16 -- CMD 18 -- HP 32/36 Friday August 23rd, 2024 7:43:27 PM
Aydi looks at Ian as he leaves when he turns around he will give Ian a simple nod knowing he is meant for a different journey. "Remember if you ever find your way back you will always have a home with us."
Aydi will look at the group. "Let's head home I got the lead"
Dominik - Aymar Shakhtar -- AC 20/16/17 -- CMD 21 -- HP 30/30 Friday August 23rd, 2024 8:37:00 PM
Aymar puts on a brave face, "I have lost many brothers, the lucky ones are the ones who get to walk away on their own terms. May you find your path and we hope this path leads you back to us."
Aymar agrees with Aydi, "We need to re-group. Between Ian leaving and this new information, there is too much chaos at the moment."
I'm sure the gods don't give us impossible tasks, we will find that heart. - DM Steve Saturday August 24th, 2024 9:36:01 AM
Ingrida listens to the party counsel a return to Drakesmeade to regroup and research what mountain heart might mean. There is wisdom to what they say, but it doesn't feel right to her. "We might be able to learn more at Drakesmeade, but we have to get there first. Some of you are still injured from the climb up the mountain. The cold keeps those injuries from healing, but it is warm here."
Ingrida looks up at the darkening sky, noting the time of day. "We'll need shelter before nightfall -- should we trust a crevasse? But more than that, if we were meant to do research in Drakesmeade we could have been researching for months now. No, the message was delivered here. Either we need to do something here, or near here, or this place is on the way."
"That cryptic message I was given? Would Domi hand out riddles for no reason? . . He thinks I should know what it might mean to ‘seek the mountain heart.’ We’re in the heart of the mountains now — perhaps this shrine holds more than meets the eye, but it’s not the only place I should look. . . I think Domi respects those who show determination just as much as deference. Even if he doesn't, most dwarves do, and this place was built by dwarves." Ingrida's thoughts are becoming disjointed now. After a few sentences that sounded purposeful, she's beginning to falter, to doubt herself.
"Maybe the reason we put letters on the altar is to let the statues know we're supposed to be here. . . Maybe that helmet Ian found belonged to the orphan's parents. . . Oh, I don't know. But let's do try to stay here tonight. I don't want anyone dead on the mountain because of my quest."
"Domi might be not more impressed by our determination than our retreat. A dwarf would be."
Ingrida now appears to he holding back tears. "Oh, maybe you're right."
RobC - Kaida Shadowplay -- AC 13/13/11 -- CMD 12 -- HP 32/32 Saturday August 24th, 2024 10:07:43 AM "So Domi respected me so much for braving the Scab to bring you here that he wanted to reward me by pushing me off this mountain to my death?"
Kaida begins casting a summoning spell.
"I'm not convinced Domi has anything to do with this place"
Kaida still has a bad feeling about this area.
Jess- Fritjof -- AC 15/15/13 -- CMD 19 -- HP 27/43 (16 nonlethal damage) Sunday August 25th, 2024 12:34:58 PM
Frit looks from Ingrida to Kaida. "If the others agree, I see, um, no harm in staying the night. So long as we find a spot where the statues won't, uh, harass us," Frit says to Ingrida. "But Kaida makes a good point. This place has, uh, made it pretty clear that the non-Dwarven of us are unwelcome. If there are clues here, there isn't much that we can do to find them while being chased around by those, um, things."
StephenT - Aydi Alzila -- AC 19/16/16 -- CMD 18 -- HP 32/36 d20+12=16 ; Sunday August 25th, 2024 6:35:32 PM
Aydi will look around trying to fund a place to set up camp for the night near the crater. "I think we should stay here for the night set up a good watch and let us figure out our next steps. There are way too much that we do not know. If we go back home we may just be righting off the true goal of this trip. Redemption, but what I do know is we need to let everyone get back to 100% before we go wherever we go." Aydi speaks up.
OOC Survival 16
Hamlin Vashtel (Brent Adams) -- AC 13/13/10 -- CMD 13 -- HP 19/19 Sunday August 25th, 2024 7:54:33 PM
" I think we should spend the night. I've been freezing my toes off and this place is refreshing to me"
Dominik - Aymar Shakhtar -- AC 20/16/17 -- CMD 21 -- HP 30/30 Sunday August 25th, 2024 9:23:36 PM
Aymar agrees, "A good night sleep out of the elements will do us all some good." He thinks to himself, "There must be something we are missing" .
MM - Eleonora Deepmine -- AC 14 (with armor 18) -- CMD 15 -- HP 28/28 Monday August 26th, 2024 1:51:28 AM "Resting sounds nice", Nora agrees.
"I was thinking that the heart would be deep inside the mountain, but maybe you are right. At least we can look around while we are here, one trip up was hard enough." She looks at the helm, then with disbelief asks: "So, the orphan would still be here? Hidden under a rock somewhere?"
-------------------- OOC: After night, keep Endure Elements on self and one other.
Spencer Holloway Nadia Silvershield AC 19/13/15 HP 35/35 Monday August 26th, 2024 6:03:06 AM " Perhaps we should again come in, but this time take the proper path for everyone. And then if we spent the night sheltered here, warm at least, that may be a benefit. The heart.... The heart could be one of us, the heart of the group, or it could be the shrine, which we need to check over again. I didn't check it well." Nadia admits, having just trusted this to be the correct placement for everything.
Hamlin Vashtel (Brent Adams) -- AC 13/13/10 -- CMD 13 -- HP 19/19 Monday August 26th, 2024 4:50:21 PM
" Hmm I doubt the term heart is that metaphorical I presumed location in the mountains"
The Peak - DM Cayzle Monday August 26th, 2024 11:24:49 PM
Kaida is suspicious of the holy peak. Why would Domi exclude non-dwarves?
If Kaida mentions her fears, Ingrida will pause, as if struggling to assert herself, and then disagrees. “You saw that thed letters were accepted. And Domi flat out said he was Domi!”
Frit points out that the “statues” do not seem to mind if visitors stay in the warm part of the caldera, but stay within 20 feet of the outer circle. Staying the night would allow those with frostbite damage to recover sompletely.
Aydi sees the wisdom in this and agrees with Frit.
Hamlin will be happy to rid his toes of the cold.
Aymar and Nora agree too. With near unanimity, the party settles in close to the edge but in the warm grass. Soon restful sleep soothes you.
In the morning, though, the first to wake finds Ingrida weeping.
“I wish the gods did not speak in ways so hard to understand!” she exclaims.
The oppositional, wrestling statues are all gone, of course. And the one remaining statue is in a different place, although no one saw it move. It’s pose suggests that it is tending the flowers.
How will you all decide on the path forward? Skill checks? Intuition? Prayer? Keep in mind that a hero point can be used for “Inspiration.”
RobC - Kaida Shadowplay -- AC 13/13/11 -- CMD 12 -- HP 32/32 Tuesday August 27th, 2024 4:57:14 AM "If that WAS Domi" Kaida keeps her thought to herself. If it wasn't Domi then she doesn't want to worry Ingrida with the fact that it may have been a demon.
"Perhaps the quickest way back to Drakesmeade is the way we came? We know the dangers and the places not to step"
Spencer Holloway Nadia Silvershield AC 19/13/15 HP 35/35 Tuesday August 27th, 2024 4:27:40 PM "We are here for a reason. Perhaps the pathway non dwarves need to take is something different from us? There was that pathway, perhaps try it? See if that allows you closer? If not, I want to check the middle more anyways. Perhaps we missed something." Nadia isn't sure she checked the alter through enough to rule anything out
Jess- Frit -- AC 16/15/13 -- CMD 21 -- HP 43/43 Tuesday August 27th, 2024 4:32:10 PM "The statues are gone, so that, um, probably a good sign." Frit says.
He nods as Nadia suggests taking the pathway. "I'll try it," he volunteers, feeling refreshed from a good night's sleep in the warmth. He looks to the others. "Anyone else, uh, want to?" he asks, moving toward the path.
Hamlin Vashtel (Brent Adams) -- AC 13/13/10 -- CMD 13 -- HP 19/19 Tuesday August 27th, 2024 5:48:53 PM
(I'll spend the hero point for inspiration, hopefully from Warrd) " Hold on all I want to pray for guidance on this one. I get the idea that going back to Drakesmeade is not the course"
MM - Eleonora Deepmine -- AC 14 (with armor 18) -- CMD 15 -- HP 28/28 d20+6=12 ; d20+6=25 ; Tuesday August 27th, 2024 5:56:35 PM
Nora wakes up, and does her morning prayers. Afterwards, she walks around the meadow wondering about many things aloud: "This is a really surprising place, how can this exist in middle of so much snow? What keeps the snow away? And what was the heart, there's this nagging feeling, but I don't remember that the instructions at Drakesmeade spoke about anything else than an altar? Was it something the giant said? And what are the statues, and is there something about the altar?"
She walks to the statue, then to the altar, examining both, while humming a simple melody with not very creative words, as a kind of a prayer: "Flower, god of flowers, meadow of flowers, she loves it, flowers..." ------------------- OOC: Perception, with stonecunning on the statue 12, on the altar 25.
Dominik - Aymar Shakhtar -- AC 20/16/17 -- CMD 21 -- HP 30/30 Tuesday August 27th, 2024 7:44:43 PM
Aymar was happy to be sleeping in the warm air. When he wakes up, he spends time praying to Domi, hoping he will grant him some insight. "I will go with you. I think we should run for it and if those statues show up, we may have to put up a defense this time." Aymar answers Frit. Just before they start, Aymar will put an arm in front of Frit, "The flowers here seem to be odd. Why is the statue tending to them? What do you make of it?"
StephenT - Aydi Alzila -- AC 19/16/16 -- CMD 18 -- HP 32/36 Tuesday August 27th, 2024 9:28:43 PM "I volunteer to go for a quick jog as well. If need be I could try sneaking in first. Also we can see first how it would act if Yuki goes on there."
Aydi will also look at the flowers and see if he knows anything.
StephenT - Aydi Alzila -- AC 19/16/16 -- CMD 18 -- HP 32/36 d20+8=24 ; Tuesday August 27th, 2024 9:29:34 PM
OOC KN Nature 24
The Peak - DM Cayzle Tuesday August 27th, 2024 11:05:57 PM
Kaida suggests returning home by the same route you used to arrive.
Frit sees the disappearance of the wrestling stone dwarf statues as a good thing. Then Nadia ...
Well ... Nadia checks that taking the path may allow non-dwarves fuller access. Alas, no, a stone dwarf appears to block your way as you walk the path, enter the caldera, and then move 25 feet in. Do you stay put and invite a wrestling match, or back up?
Hamlin thinks hard about the party’s choices, maybe even saying a bit of a prayer to Domi for inspiration. He thinks that Drakesmeade is certainly the heart of your mountain community, and may well be what Domi’s words mean. On the other hand, he recalls that there is a nearby dwarf stronghold named Clan Mountainheart.
And finally, he ponders Domi’s words: SEEK the Mountain Heart. Domi did not say to FIND it!
Nora tries to recall her memory of Storm Giant Daniel’s story ... “If Frost Giants gain the Ice Forge, and if they reclaim it, they would possess the means to challenge Fhorge and potentially unleash the power hidden within the mountain's heart.”
Nora also closely inspects the statue and the altar. She sees clearly that they are not made by the same hand. The statue has a mark: “I, Narvi, made this.” The statue (or golem or whatever it is) shows chisel marks. It was made by dwarves. The altar is a piece of stone perfectly and supernaturally cut. It seems somehow more ancient, and yet less eroded; it shows no sign of manufacture.
Aymar prepares to walk the path, and Aydi too takes a jog. From the path outside the caldera, Aymar sees some shape to one side, in the rubble beyond the lip, partly covered by snow. Aydi sees that it is a body of some animal, and beyond that, some other objects.
Spencer Holloway Nadia Silvershield AC 19/13/15 HP 35/35 Tuesday August 27th, 2024 11:15:02 PM
Nadia seems a bit deflated when Frit wasn't able to pass as freely as she was, and she ponders this longer. But when Nora tells of the markings and how they are different, Nadia says [/b]"Frit, I think we are going the wrong direction. Unless we need to wrestle them, then that's a chance still, but otherwise we might be done here. May the others have better luck."[/b]
MM - Eleonora Deepmine -- AC 14 (with armor 18) -- CMD 15 -- HP 28/28 Wednesday August 28th, 2024 2:16:13 PM "Hmm... well the statues are made by dwarves, and the altar is not... So it's not Domi, it's dwarves who push people off the mountain? Actually, that doesn't surprise me much, some clans have... opinions... about outsiders", Nora comments about the altar and the statues.
"The giant's tale was that with the Ice Forge the frost giants could challenge Fhorge and unleash something at the heart... and Fhorge is associated with a mountain in the Scab! And is a known to be jailer of some... thing? Is that the place? Nadia, help a bit here, could it be?" Nora tries to follow the clues.
--------------------- OOC: Take 10 for 15 in Religion to read the spirituality page of Woldipedia.
Jess- Frit -- AC 16/15/13 -- CMD 21 -- HP 43/43 Wednesday August 28th, 2024 5:18:52 PM
Frit backs up and then sprints away from the statue, returning to where his friends are waiting in safety. He listens to Nadia and Nora as the ponder the riddle posed by Domi's instructions. He looks out at the mountainous vista of the scab. "I, um, I don't know much about this sort of thing. I, uh, never was much good at, um, reading about or remembering this this sort of thing. Do any of the stories link Domi and Fhorge? Is there, um, a reason why Domi would send Ingrida--and us--to look for a mountain or an ice forge associated with Fhorge?"
Hamlin Vashtel (Brent Adams) -- AC 13/13/10 -- CMD 13 -- HP 19/19 Wednesday August 28th, 2024 5:22:26 PM
"Everyone I've got it!! Domi said seek the mountainheart . There is a mountain heart clan stronghold nearby. That must be what we are destined to do. I'm sure of it."
Dominik - Aymar Shakhtar -- AC 20/16/17 -- CMD 21 -- HP 30/30 Wednesday August 28th, 2024 8:00:39 PM
Aymar will head over to investigate these shapes below the rubble. He will use his sword to gently move the snow and discover what is there.
StephenT - Aydi Alzila -- AC 19/16/16 -- CMD 18 -- HP 32/36 Wednesday August 28th, 2024 9:42:32 PM "All I know is that our journey is far from over. If anyone needs a little protection from the cold I can give 2 to who ever needs it."
Aydi will cast endure elements on two in addition to himself when they start heading down.
The Peak - DM Cayzle Wednesday August 28th, 2024 11:00:41 PM
You continue to discuss interpretations.
Nora thinks about the Ice Forge story.
Hamlin thinks about the Mountainheart Clan.
Nadia suggests that your work at the top of the mountain is done.
Aydi is thinking about the cold trip down the mountain. At least today is a sunny day!
Aymar, searching the perimeter of the mountaintop, deduces that over time the statues have tossed a number of creatures off the peak, and some of those have died. He finds bones of humans, kobolds, goblins, and wild animals. There are bears’ teeth, rusted gear, broken bottles, rotted clothing, a battered helm, etc. He has scouted maybe a quarter of the way around.
LOG ON