DM Bob and Carla - ”A whole lotta moola!” Thursday August 22nd, 2024 1:01:17 AM
The adventurers manoeuvre the chest and it’s contents through the streets of Heranmar and back to Lucky House depositing their heavy load before the hearth, and returning the ship’s bell with the sigils to the mantle piece. Due to the lateness of the day, there were few to witness their progress through town, and no one really seems to take any notice anyway - it not being uncommon for interesting flotsam and jetsam to wash ashore from time to time, to be collected by beach combers and treasure hunters. Honora, Olostim, the harbour master, sheriff, and mayor seem to have all retired for the night, returning to their homes or usual haunts.
The evening is spent assessing the gems and sorting the treasure into piles for divvying up. The members of the party who have been in Heranmar some time explain to the newer folk that there is an entrance to the Catacombs at the back of one of the stalls in the Tradehouse. If they check with Elle at Elle’s Enchantments she’ll show them where it is. The Catacombs is the ultimate in magical item shopping. Its claim to fame is that it can handle ANY magical need. If the item is out there, they can find it…for a price.
******
The next day after breakfast - Beatrix, Benni, Eadric, Isaac, Makis, Snark and Urist are at their leisure to do as they please! Any who tour the town will see that the repair work has been completed, and the townsfolk have turned their hands to decorating their homes and streets. There is much activity as unused stalls in the Tradehouse are opened for temporary use, and wooden picnic tables set up in the open area in front of Looking Glass Pond between Quendock Mansion and the Tradehouse as the town prepares for a party! Anyone who checks out Elle’s Enchantments does indeed discover that the Catacombs is open for retail therapy
There are opportunities for the Luck Makers to go shopping, visit friends, become involved in the towns activities, or for quiet time and contemplation. There are two more days of preparation, and the party will be on the third day.
If Snark strikes out for Olostim’s lighthouse, he’ll find the wizard in residence - pouring over his spell books as he plans the fireworks display for the celebration. If the blue haired gnome is prepared to assist the wizard with the pyrotechnics, Olostim will open the book he is currently referencing and share some spells appropriate to the occasion. (OOC: Do you have specific spells in mind? If not, we can prepare a list for you to choose from. There will be 2 days to copy spells.)
(Please post how you would like to spend your time. The next couple of DM posts will respond to the activities you choose to undertake in the days leading up to the party.)
“Benni” AC 24/12/23 CMD 23. HP 63/ 63 Onesimos (SteveK) Thursday August 22nd, 2024 7:12:36 AM
Benni wakes in the mornings, doing his usual ablutions in the wash house in the back yard, then meditations in his room, before coming down dressed in work-a-day clothes to break his fast. A quick meal and generous accolades to Maggie the cook and housekeeper, he is out the door: there is a lot to be done!
The first day is spent at the Tradehouse, going thorugh Elle's to the Catacombs for more magical items, providing a written report to Miles and the Woldian League of Adventurers, then telling parables by the pond or helping with heavy lifting or arranging or anything that someone needs (i.e. building the community)
......
90K / 7 PCs = 12,857.14 gp each
That, plus Benni's equipment and coin get him to 46,971.44 gp, which is right on the money for the 9th level WBL of 46,000gp
Benni will donate the remaining 971.44 gp to various causes about Heranmar.
Beatrix and Tinkerbell (Mitch) HP 72/72 AC 18/14/16 CMD 22 Tinkerbell HP 32/32 AC 23/15/21 Thursday August 22nd, 2024 8:25:33 AM
Between adventuring and school teaching Beatrix is always busy with something, which she enjoys, but for the short time frame before the party she decides to take some time off. She reads some books for herself, does some extra exercise, and goes shopping with her new influx of money. She'll have to make plans to go to a big city to buy things that can' t be gotten here. Sure magic items are available, but she's thinking some nice new outfits, maybe some understated jewelry.
Makis the Lucky (AC 13/13/10, CMD 16. HP 78/78) (Harry) Thursday August 22nd, 2024 4:21:11 PM
Makis asks to hang with Benni on his trip to the Catacombs. Never been there before and would hate to get taken by a fast talking wand dealer. he Says with a smile,
After shopping he wlll some time exploring the city in both elven and cat form. If he fins anyone in need he will try to be helpful and general stays out of trouble.
ooc: I am wheels down in the states an should be home by around 9:00pm tonight. Thanks for being patient with me.
(OOC: You’ve done great! Hope the trip,was a blast! - DM Carla)
Isaac Harker (Justin M) HP63/91 AC23/ T13 / FF20 Thursday August 22nd, 2024 8:14:37 PM
Isaac takes a day to catch up with many of his friends in town. Sheriff Eugene is his first stop. He recounts the party's actions in the Abbey. How they brought the magic suppressing lantern to the good lich that called the basement home and how it was used to close the portals and caved in that part of the Abbey he recommends that officially the consensus is that every thing in the basement is destroyed. "Some of the other Luck Makers worry someone will come looking for it and I want to nip any treasure hunters greed. As far as we all should acknowledge that lantern is gone and theirs nothing under that Abby left except rubble." As he goes to leave he hears Eugene mutter something about no being paid enough for all this. Isaac smiles and calls back "Yeah the paper work is always the worst part." He also meets up with Reshakka the liontaur at the Sanctuary of the sea. He gives a brief overview of the adventures he had been on and also ask about how things have been going around town.
Eadric Wolfe (Ben V) AC27 T19 FF27 CMD 27 83/83HP Thursday August 22nd, 2024 8:46:01 PM
Eadric also comes along with Makis and Benni, similarly unfamiliar to the intricacies of the dealings in the Catacombs.
Afterwards, he'll walk about the town and head to the WLA headquarters, planning on becoming a member!
Snark Riverstone (MarkB) AC23 T14 F20, CMD 15, HP 78/78 Thursday August 22nd, 2024 9:07:51 PM
Snark will ride his plant companion down to the dock area and offer the the Dock master to cast Wall of Stone a couple times whereever it might be most helprul. (Can be any shape or configuration, including horizontal.)
The he turns Herb toward Olostim's lighthouse home. He uses Expeditious Retreat to hasten the journey a bit. He is very grateful for the wizard's offer to study some of his spells, and he is very happy to help with the pyrotechnics display, bolstering it with Silent Image and Minor Image as needed. (He can glean four spells over the two day period being offered.)
--------------------------- The kindly DMs asked what spells Snark might be seeking.
Summon Monst V Teleport Baleful Polymorph Dominate Person Passwall Sending Wall of Force Break Enchantment Permanency Overland Flight
Urist (AC24, HP82of82) (Cayzle) Thursday August 22nd, 2024 9:44:01 PM
Urist goes through the loot pile and looks for the exact right gems. She takes out her maul and works on setting them into the handle and head.
"This will really spiffy up the beast!" she says.
[OOC: Upgrading my fate item to the next level value.]
Urist also makes her way to the local WLA rep to pay her dues and get her training in.
DM Bob and Carla - ”Preparing for a party! Thursday August 22nd, 2024 11:38:34 PM Benni has company when he heads for the Tradehouse. Makis and Eadric being new to town, have never visited the magic emporium via a franchise portal. Later, the elven cleric delivers his notes to Miles at the WLA booth and meets up with Urist who is completing paperwork and paying dues related to her progression with the League. Miles, the representative for the Woldian League of Adventurers in Heranmar is more than happy to sign Eadricup. If the man is sure, he should come ‘round the next day - at which time he can pay his dues, make his pledge, be signed into the book, and receive his WLA pin badge.
Isaac calls on Sheriff Eugene and debriefs before heading to the Sanctuary by the Sea for a visit with the old liontaur priest. Benni shows up later, and they, along with Roland Appleton are put to work by the ancient Reshakka - who directs the hanging of green bunting about the place. The temple is quieter than usual, with most folks busy trying to get their regular work wrapped up before the day of the celebration, or else preparing for the festivities.
No one looks askance at the Bloodwitch in his regular form, though when he volunteers to help out, he is handed a broom and asked to sweep out some of the empty booths in the Tradehouse. Later, Makis has fun prowling around in cat form. He finds the community amenable to felines. The town guards pay no attention to Makis-Cat when he makes a circuit of the town walls and takes in the fine views! When he wanders into the lovely little garden behind the Bottim Feeder Inn and Blue Cat Tavern Ginifred Bottim just smiles, and sets out a saucer of cream.
Beatrix gets asked to return to the school in Quendock Mansion and work with a small class in the mornings. If she accepts, she finds the children respond to her instruction. The rest of her time is spent with her beloved books and restorative pastimes.
The harbourmaster let’s Snark know he, and the Luck Makers have done more than enough for the town of Heranmar even if most of the townsfolk don’t recognize it. She thanks the greenmage for his offer of help, but reports his services are not required. The stonework has been completed. On reaching Olostim’s lighthouse, and agreeing to help the old wizard with the pyrotechnics, Snark is shown the plans for the event and the book the wizard is currently referencing. Snark notices a theme to the spells on offer.
Over the course of the day, the Luck Makers learn the itinerary of the celebration includes a few speeches, a market, displays and entertainments, and down on the docks and on the beach games and contests. In the evening a community feast in the center of town, followed by fireworks out over the bay.
Day one wraps up. There’s one more day before the party. How do the Luck Makers spend their time?
(OOC: We are aware that shopping in the Catacombs takes time. There is no rush. )
“Benni” AC 24/12/23 CMD 23. HP 63/ 63 Onesimos (SteveK) Friday August 23rd, 2024 7:40:20 AM
Benni's clerical spells aren't bent towards the flashy illusions that would entertain during a party, but he can have things ready in case something goes wrong, including meditating on a couple of Helping Hands spells.
Next, he spends breakfast asking his friends and considering whether he should cast a Hallow spell on Luck Makers House. The team is getting notoriety, and having defenses just in case may be a good idea...
He goes to the Sanctuary of the Sea for some quiet time in the afternoon, clearing his mind, breathing quietly, and getting ready for his loving good work with the community in the evening.
Hmmmm... any loose ends? 1. Rita Lolly, aka Red Rita, the daughter of Jack Lolly (the undead pirate the Luck Makers killed). Rita swore revenge on the Luck Makers and attacked them at sea when they were guarding the Woad Beer shipment on the Sea Witch to Hook City. 2. Hook, the former first mate of the Sea Witch, who mid-battle, sided with Rita Lolly, but then also saved Rio, the Captain of the Sea Witch from being killed. A puzzle there... 3. Some Thieves Guild in Hook City. Someone in Hook City set up those Wreckers who were guiding ships to their deaths in the rocky coves east of Heranmar, and someone was also interested in stealing the Woad Beer, and someone was connected to those bandits near the Greenmage's lair west of Hook City. Yes, and there was the thieves who stole Heranmar's Lucky Fish: they weren't from around here. Could all of those things be masterminded by the same person/people for some nefarious thing?
Beatrix and Tinkerbell (Mitch) HP 72/72 AC 18/14/16 CMD 22 Tinkerbell HP 32/32 AC 23/15/21 Friday August 23rd, 2024 2:06:37 PM
Beatrix won't say no to what she considers her job/duty and will teach kids. At some point she'll go shopping, when I have time IRL to do so.
Makis the Lucky (AC 13/13/10, CMD 16. HP 78/78) (Harry) Friday August 23rd, 2024 2:08:37 PM
As Makis considers his new funds he is reminded that he too owes a considerable sum to to the WLA in return for some training. He Visits as soon as he is able, pays his lvl 9 dues of 3500 gold, and begins his training to learn the feat Self Sufficient.
ooc: Note to Snark out of character. If it matter to Snark in prioritizing his spell picks Makis knows Baleful Polymorph, Dominate Person, and Break Enchantment. Unfortunately he cannot teach these.
Snark Riverstone (MarkB) AC23 T14 F20, CMD 15, HP 78/78 Friday August 23rd, 2024 5:52:57 PM
Snark is a little disappointed in the spells Olostim is willing to share. He's been rather helpful about this in the past. But these are great spells for the fireworks display. The little gnome thinks there may be other ways to supplement the the pyrotechnic display the wizard has planned.
"Thank you Olostim. These look like great spells for entertainment. I'll learn Persistent Image, and I can already cast Minor Image to help out. But how about we include some good old fashioned Lightning Bolts, Fireballs, Scorching Rays and Walls of Fire out over the water? I can use Minor Image and Persistent Image to create a fire breathing dragon. Dancing Lights could conjure a 'faintly glowing, vaguely humanoid shape' as well as four glowing lights, all of which would be safe and entertaining among the crowd. If you can teach me Summon Monster V, I can bring a big fire elemental or a bunch of lantern archons to entertain or amuse. And an air elemental could create a water spout that we could light up! And if you can teach me Elemental Body I and II and Overland Flight, I can fly though the night sky as a fire elemental, casting spells as I go! Flame on!"
"I'd keep strict control of any creatures and effects of course. Not a very good party if you burn up the audience."
Snark will happily work out plans with Olostim for a nice display.
(Spell he would like to learn to help out are in italics above.)
(OOC to Harry - It's helpful to know you have those spells. Even better that you didn't have to pay to get them. Maybe I'll focus on others.)
Isaac Harker (Justin M) HP63/91 AC23/ T13 / FF20 Friday August 23rd, 2024 10:50:06 PM
Isaac takes the day to help with the various preparations and will go to the Catacombs to trade in some stuff he has been lugging around for awhile.
Urist (AC24, HP82of82) (Cayzle) Friday August 23rd, 2024 11:17:00 PM
Urist talks to his friends and local NPCs, hoping she can pay a friendly wizard to copy a teleport spell.
Maybe the WLA guy, Miles, has some advice?
"Seems like a handy spell to have available." she says,
DM Bob and Carla - ”Preparing for a party! Sunday August 25th, 2024 11:16:02 PM
The day before the big party is quiet for some Luck Makers and exhaustingly busy for others.
Benni volunteers he could hallow the party’s home thereby providing the heroes with a measure of security whilst they are in residence. The group has done much good in the area, however they’ve also ruffled a few feathers!
Beatrix discovers that even a simple routine can keep one busy. She defers shopping for the moment.
Maybe it’s payback for all the paperwork he created for the man, but on the way to the Catacombs, Isaac finds himself drafted by the sheriff and put to work setting up barricades on the docks and the beach where the games will take place. The work isn’t onerous, and there’s chatter amongst the crew about who might enter the events.
Snark knows that in most cases wizards charge a fee for the privilege of copying from their spell books, and the greenmage has done a lot to cultivate Olostim’s esteem, so it is disappointing when the lighthouse’s occupant agrees to open his books so that the greenmage can copy two spells. First Persistent Image in time for the fireworks, and then Teleportation after the party.
When the greenmage shares his chagrin with his fellow Luck Makers, Makis volunteers that he is able to cast some of the spells Snark would like to master, but alas, he cannot teach them to his friend. Though the two magick users have many differences, they do share a similar high intellect and interest in some of the same things. Maybe, with sufficient time and energy the frugal gnome could manage something? Wizards, after all, can add new spells to their spell book through several methods - including independent research! Maybe…just maybe…if Makis was willing, Snark could watch the Bloodwitch as he goes through the motions of casting (V,S) and translate it all into something he could transcribe into his spell book! (OOC: see independent research rules. We suggest per the rules, 1 week of downtime per spell for both PC’s, GP cost to be waived. Spellcraft and Knowledge (arcana)etc. checks to be determined by DM)
Urist is interested in adding to her spell repertoire, however the troubadour hasn’t had much opportunity to make connections beyond the members of her adventuring group. Maybe she should start with them?
Note: most of this (real time) week will be dedicated to the (one] day of the celebration in Haranmar. After that there will be downtime for everyone in order to role play community building, WLA advancement, crafting, spell sharing. You can start thinking about what your character would do over a month of downtime. There will be time to post about it when the party is over - DM Bob and Carla)
DM Bob and Carla - ”Let’s get this party started!! Sunday August 25th, 2024 11:17:10 PM
Though the superstitious may have glanced in the direction of the Abbey for a sign of inclement weather, the Mayor was not one of them. Instead, he forked out his coin, and had old Gendry give a reading for the small crowd of anxious townsfolk seeking reassurance.
As forecast, the morning dawned as fair as any could wish. Not too hot. Not too cold. The few fluffy white clouds soon chased away by the bright sun.
Having arranged with the Luck Makers to have the day off, Maggie still managed to have a cold breakfast set out on the sideboard for when the heroes awoke. No one in the group has any fixed commitments, though the Mayor had asked Benni if he could call upon him to say a word or two during the speechifying scheduled for the afternoon and signalling the start of ‘the games’. ”Something about the most important thing is not to win but to take part…the only rules are - there are no rules…all’s fair in love and war…that sort of thing.” And, of course, Snark will be needed at the end of the day for the evening’s fireworks display.
By mid morning the public area in front of the pond, between the Tradehouse and Querendock Mansion is filled with a crowd of townsfolk visiting the various stalls and checking out the wares. Besides the regulars like Gewl’s Jewels, Corinne’s Cures, the Truesdales, and others, there are temporary stalls occupied by locals who quietly work from their homes most of the time, and share their creativity on festival days. Mark, the baker and Ilthemar, the Minotaur butcher work together making hot sandwiches as fast as they can pull the succulent meats off the grill and pop them between the halves of a golden bun. A halfling and her brood are selling home made hand pies and giving Mrs. Applecake’s pastry shop a run for it’s money. Tessa, Jonesy’s daughter, has claimed a stall and has various cold (non alcoholic) beverages on offer, whilst Ralphus Bottim can be spotted rolling a keg into an empty stall - ready to be tapped later in the day. Of course some hunters from the hinterland of the Downs have brought in a cache of furs for display and sale, and there is a booth with hand crafted clothing, and another with knitted items. There are at least three different sellers of trinkets hawking their wares as protection against ‘bad luck’. Anything (of the mundane sort) can be had for a few coins it seems.
The townsfolk and maybe a hundred visitors - give or take - from beyond Heranmar’s walls are milling about enjoying the atmosphere as children run and duck about and elders enjoy a gossip over tea and treats.
(Please describe how you spend the early part of the day…up to about noon.)
When the sun moves to a position directly overhead, the crowd starts to trickle away - making their way towards the gate that opens onto the beaches and road leading to the docks.
Makis the Lucky (AC 13/13/10, CMD 16. HP 78/78) (Harry) Monday August 26th, 2024 4:35:30 AM
Makis spends the day before the party training in the local chapter house of the WLA but is unable to complete the training required in a single day. He makes an appointment to come back the day after the party to complete his training.
The morning of the party Makis eats a very light breakfast as he wants to be able to sample all the good food he is sure to encounter. He has never liked crowds but tries to put himself into a positive mindset. These are good people here perhaps I can help any who are sick or injured. he things. And so he sets out to wander and people watch, picking up nibbles here and there and looking for those who might need his restorative magics.
“Benni” AC 24/12/23 CMD 23. HP 63/ 63 Onesimos (SteveK) Monday August 26th, 2024 6:42:40 AM
Benni accepts the Mayor's request for 'a few words', and spends the morning thinking of a benediction suitable for the party's theme: if only he can remember what it is! (ooc: Player can't remember why the town is throwing a party!)
Unlike Makis, Benni loves crowds: people and community are the reason love exists, after all! He always has time to listen, provide guiding words, or have a story for anyone who asks.
Beatrix and Tinkerbell (Mitch) HP 72/72 AC 18/14/16 CMD 22 Tinkerbell HP 32/32 AC 23/15/21 Monday August 26th, 2024 7:50:11 AM
Any proper celebration has games to keep kids entertained, and that's where Beatrix will be, helping run them, supervise kids, and give the occasional horsey ride.
Snark Riverstone (MarkB) AC23 T14 F20, CMD 15, HP 78/78 d20+10=30 ; Monday August 26th, 2024 9:11:33 AM
Snark will work with Olostim on the fireworks and entertainment. And it's because of this, and the effort Snark as put into cultivating a good relationship with the town and Olostim that he's a bit surprised the old wizard is not more helpful with spells. Ahhh, perhaps the old guy just wants some money.
"Olostim, I am happy to help you however I can with the events celebrating the construction of the new docks. Thank you for your willingness to part with those two spells - that is kind payment. And I know that you, like any wizard, have expenses. How much would you charge for additional spells? And regardless of your answer on this, I invite you to peruse my spellbook. If there happen to be any spells in there that you do not already have, you're welcome to them my friend."
Snark will share his spellbooks and the one from Vikras with Olostim.
Once preparations are done, Snark will happily move through town offering to cast spells as needed. This includes approaching the mayor to see about getting portions of the town streets paved over time with castings of Wall of Stone, though he is careful to work with folk there to ensure such work does not inadvertently cause runoff or drainage issues in town. (Knowledge Engineering 30)
Isaac Harker (Justin M) HP63/91 AC23/ T13 / FF20 Monday August 26th, 2024 8:58:42 PM
Isaac walks along the stalls, sampling the various treats on display. The Sandwiches are delicious, and he loves the pies from the halfling woman. He gets a little wooden puzzle one of the smaller stall is selling to solve later. He spots the Guard woman Wren, "Hey Wren, are you on guard duty for the day or free? I wanted to know if you wanted to get a bite to eat with me, the sandwiches are excellent, but have you tried the pies that woman is selling, fantastic."
Urist (AC24, HP82of82) (Cayzle) Monday August 26th, 2024 11:09:17 PM
Urist is excited to see her friend Snark working on stoneworks, and she volunteers to help. She has her skills and her Fabricate spell to make things even snazzier.
As she works on sewers and storm drains, she makes them big enough for maintenance, and enjoys imagining adventurers a hundred years hence playing their trade against monsters under the town.
"Master Snark, did I hear you mention Teleport? I'd love to try putting that spell in my book too."
DM Bob and Carla - ”Let the games begin!” Tuesday August 27th, 2024 12:07:18 AM Benni struggles with a theme Beatrix shows up and keeps the children amused. Snark and Urist share a common interest Isaac cultivates a friendship. Makis wants to be helpful, but is shy.
In the afternoon, the activity shifts from the middle of town to the docks and the beach. Gwenlian, the harbourmaster makes the last speech, welcoming the half dozen passengers disembarking from the first sailing ship berthed at the newly refurbished docks. Official business completed, the first event of the games is announced! The triple feat event is described as an athletic test. Participants will:
1. Dive off the dock - Acrobatics check 2. Swim towards a point on the beach where the horses are gathered - Swim check 3. Select a horse and mount - Handle Animal Check 4. Guide the horse around the perimeter of the walled town - Ride check 5. Dismount at the temporary corral by the gate and run down the road to the dock and the finish line - full round max run distance, divide by 10 and use that number
The crowd claps and cheers as various individuals - males and females of all shapes, sizes, and levels of fitness move forward to claim a spot on the starting line. Most look like ordinary folk game for a personal challenge, however an off duty guard striped of his armour, a lithe hunter from out of town, her hair braided tightly away from her face, and a tanned dwarf shaped like a V, look like they could provide some competion.
Miles, the fastidious WLA rep saunters up, carefully tying back his long white-blonde hair. A wry smile on his face, he arches an eyebrow at any Luck Makers assembled on the beach. ”Care to give it a go?” he invites before making his way onto the dock.
When the participants are ranged along the dock, including any of our adventurers heroic enough to make the attempt, Gwenlian rings the loud ships bell that signals the start and THEY’RE OFF!!
(OOC: if your PC participates, please make the 5 checks (with applicable modifiers) and add up the total!)
Makis the Lucky (AC 13/13/10, CMD 16. HP 78/78) (Harry) Tuesday August 27th, 2024 6:57:53 AM
Makis watches the first of the games wishing he had learned to swim and considers taking the time to master the skill. He is having a good time but also wished he could go finish his training at the WLA.
“Benni” AC 24/12/23 CMD 23. HP 63/ 63 Onesimos (SteveK) d20+9=11 Tuesday August 27th, 2024 7:30:38 AM
Benni uses his speech time to allow his listeners to consider that the town's success was a group effort relying on taking action and working together to a common purpose (Pragma). The achievements of rescues, of walls, of harbor brought friends (Philia) and families (Storge') closer. That each of us learned more of what we are capable of, bringing self-satisfaction (Philautia). All these are forms of love. And, so is playfully celebrating Heranmar's successes (Ludus)!
It's not his best speech. (Perform Oratory: 11)
For the first contest, Benni stands companionably with his brother, cheering on the contestants. "Participation is important, but I'm not willingly getting on a horse. I don't get along well with animals. But it is important to be a part of the community, so let us cheer and encourage those who are participating!"
Beatrix and Tinkerbell (Mitch) HP 72/72 AC 18/14/16 CMD 22 Tinkerbell HP 32/32 AC 23/15/21 d20+2=11 ; d20+4=20 ; d20+1=19 ; Tuesday August 27th, 2024 8:42:05 AM
Beatrix enjoys physical competition and is eager to participate. She's decent at the dive (11), Swims like a champion (soft 20), cannot mount a horse (?) but does lead it to the finish line ok (19) before using her natural advantages to smoke people at the running part (run is 4x move speed, 50 feet x 4 is 200 total, divided by 10 for 20.).
(11+20+0+19+20=70 total)
Given she can't do part of the competition she may or may not be disqualified but she just wants to participate for the fun of it.
Eadric Wolfe (Ben V) AC27 T19 FF27 CMD 27 83/83HP d20+16=20 ; d20+6=25 ; d20+3=20 ; d20+4=17 ; Tuesday August 27th, 2024 2:36:30 PM
Eadric throws his hat in the ring in the competition. He dives (20) and swims (25) well, before choosing a nice horse (20), riding it fairly well (17). Finally, he dismounts and sprints for the dock (30*4 =120/10 = 12).
(20+25+20+17+12 = 94!)
Feeling good about his performance, he says "I've still got it!" when he returns to the group.
Snark Riverstone (MarkB) AC23 T14 F20, CMD 15, HP 78/78 Tuesday August 27th, 2024 4:20:23 PM
Snark tells Urist, "My spells are your spells pal."
Then he watches the races.
Isaac Harker (Justin M) HP63/91 AC23/ T13 / FF20 d20+2=20 ; d20+2=22 ; d20=7 ; d20+2=20 ; Tuesday August 27th, 2024 8:46:21 PM
Isaac takes off his armor to participate in the event. He doesn't expect to win, but will try his hand at it. Acrobatics:20 Swim:22 Handle animal (Untrained)??? Rolling a d20:7 Ride:20 Running (30x4)/10=12 Total: 81
Urist (AC24, HP82of82) (Cayzle) d20+12=15 ; Tuesday August 27th, 2024 9:34:42 PM
Urist rolls a spellcraft check to learn Teleport.
Spellcraft check 15. Ugh, that's well short of the required DC20. No Teleport for Urist.
"Oh well, thanks anyway Snark. And you're free to borrow my book any time."
DM Bob and Carla - ”The triple feat event” Die rolls done on the DM Board for the hunter, the V shaped dwarf, the off duty guard, and Miles and NPC modifiers added by DM on chart of ALL participants in order to call the race! Tuesday August 27th, 2024 10:51:38 PM
Gwenlian rings the bell, and the race participants are off!
Makis, Benni and Snark watch, and cheer encouragement, while Urist is keen to talk magic.
Eadric and Isaac are quick off the mark with gracefull dives off the docks. The female hunter and off duty town guard are right behind, followed by the dwarf from the quarry. Beatrix finds herself in the middle of the pack with Miles and a number of the other participants. Cleaving efficiently through the water, the elderly adventurer protects his lead, with the paladin at his elbow and the V shaped dwarf drafting in their wake, closely followed by the guard. The centaur chases the leaders, separating herself from the pack. Miles has a disastrous swim and falls behind.
Eadric is first out of the water, has an efficient transition, and is off ‘round the town walls. Isaac struggles with a skittish mount. The stable master gapes at Beatrix as she exits the water, and looks to the course marshall - who makes a quick ruling: the centaur doesn’t need a mount! (DM perogotive: no handle animal check required, +20) The schoolmarm blows through transition, breezing past the dwarf as he steers his mount out of the corral, followed by the guard. Gaining control of his horse, the paladin urges his mount forward.
The leaders disappear round the bend in the wall as the rest of the participants give chase, and the stragglers exit the water and find their mounts. The crowd murmurs and claps. Dim sounds of cheering can be heard from the other side of town as the racers do the circuit. A guard from high on the wall calls out breathlessly: ”the old guy’s in the lead, but the lady is close behind with the half-elf on her tail!”
A hush falls over the crowd, and then a cheer, as Eadric rounds the last corner and comes into view with a sizeable lead. Dismounting at the second corral, he sets off down the gravel road towards the docks, just as Beatrix rounds the corner and blows through another transition, Isaac a hair’s breadth behind. The people in the crowd loose their minds when Eadric, giving his all, sprints across the finish line with Beatrix hooves pounding, behind. Isaac cruises in for an easy 3rd and after a gap the V shaped dwarf for 4th. Things get exciting when Miles, having made up time on the ride, and the guard go head to head, with the guard edging out the elf by the narrowest of margins for 5th.
Eadric gets hoisted onto the shoulders of a couple of burly men, who insist on carrying him up to the winners circle where a wreath of leaves tied with green ribbon is set upon his head, a gold coloured medallion in the shape of an H is placed around his neck, and a small leather bag containing 5GP is thrust into his hand. Beatrix and Isaac get similar treatment with a wreath for their heads, and H shaped medallions in silver and bronze. The centaur gets a token for a free pie and the paladin a token for a cooked turkey leg.
*******
After the excitement of the triple feat event, everything else seems tame - yet there is still a little time before the beer garden opens up and the supper feast is served.
Down on the beach people of all ages and abilities are playing a game of Toppling Towers- piling odd shaped rocks one on top of the other to see how high they can get without falling down.
Roll 1 each - d20, d12, d10, d8, d6, d4. Add up the numbers. A natural 1 with the d20 = start again A natural 1 with any other number and the tower falls down
Makis the Lucky (AC 13/13/10, CMD 16. HP 78/78) (Harry) Wednesday August 28th, 2024 6:36:48 AM
The crowd excitement is catching and the usually subdued Makis cheers loudly for his party members and is actually up on his feet jumping up and down with the crowd when Eadric passes the finish line. After, Makis looks about, hoping no one has taken notice of him.
“Benni” AC 24/12/23 CMD 23. HP 63/ 63 Onesimos (SteveK) d20=20 ; d12=9 ; d10=5 ; d8=3 ; d6=5 ; d4=2 ; Wednesday August 28th, 2024 8:21:13 AM
How exciting! Benni cheers for everyone, how close some of the finishes were! Amazing, really. The elf finds himself a little hoarse after the dramatic finish between the Guard and Miles, and he wanders to the beach.
Now this is a game he can get behind: rock stacking. Not that he's very good, and that is one wobbly tower (almost two 1s)! Still, he is pleased it didn't fall down...
Stacked Tower: 44
Beatrix and Tinkerbell (Mitch) HP 72/72 AC 18/14/16 CMD 22 Tinkerbell HP 32/32 AC 23/15/21 Wednesday August 28th, 2024 8:26:43 AM
Centaurs are big eaters and Beatrix has worked up an apatite so she immediately cashes in her pie and eats the whole thing while watching the next events. She congratulates the other contests on their performances. That was fun!
Snark Riverstone (MarkB) AC23 T14 F20, CMD 15, HP 78/78 d20=7 ; d12=5 ; d10=4 ; d8=3 ; d6=4 ; d4=1 ; Wednesday August 28th, 2024 4:09:45 PM
(Snark rolls a total of 24 - not a very good roll.)
The little gnome tries stacking the stones again and again, but no matter how hard he tries they keep falling down.
"Well, this ain't workin. Time for Plan B."
The gnome casts a spell and soon an Unseen Servant is summoned. Snark does not try to hide this. "Listen Spooky, I'm gonna need yer help keepin' these stones up. I'll start stacking 'em, and you keep 'em from falling down, awright?"
Snark begins stacking the stones again and the Unseen Servant intervenes each time they start to fall. The stones now remain stacked rather high (bumping his total to the max of 57?), but are obviously kept up by magic as they continually sway back and forth the whole time. Snark stands next to his gently swaying tower of stones and gives the judges a thumbs-up when they look at his tower.
No one said you couldn't use magic, but he's pretty sure he's going to get disqualified for it.
Eadric Wolfe (Ben V) AC27 T19 FF27 CMD 27 83/83HP Wednesday August 28th, 2024 8:07:31 PM
Eadric celebrates his victory, accepting both the medallion and wreathe. He sits out of the stacking game and cheers his compatriots on, catching his breath.
Isaac Harker (Justin M) HP63/91 AC23/ T13 / FF20 d20=18 ; d12=5 ; d10=3 ; d8=4 ; d6=4 ; d4=1 ; Wednesday August 28th, 2024 9:07:42 PM
Isaac pockets the token for later, he was still full from his snacking earlier, maybe tomorrow. He wore the third place medal proudly, Wardd had helped him immensely in the race. Following rest of the Luck Makers down to the beach, he decides to join in the rock stacking contest. Isaac starts off strong, but as the tower climbs higher he has more trouble stacking the rocks. Finally nearing completion, the final rock is placed, but everything comes down as the tower collapses. No medal for Isaac this time.
Total:35 rolled a 1 on the d4.
DM Bob and Carla - ”Work-Life Balance” Wednesday August 28th, 2024 10:52:37 PM
The Toppling Towers game seems more a community minded endeavour than a contest. Some local misses walk along the beach, handing out simple charms to any who participate. There is a common theme: a thin wooden disc cut from the branch of an oak strung on a green coloured ribbon. Each disc is imprinted with a brand depicting something from nature. Benni’s thin tower, built on a solid foundation, earns him a depiction of a fish, Isaac’s effort gets some laughs, but he is gifted a charm featuring a four leaf clover. Snark’s gently swaying tower attracts some children mesmerized by the improbability of the thing. There is no judge to call him out on his use of magic, and he too receives a ‘good luck’ charm with the image of a ladybug. On the periphery, Makis feels self conscious over his unrestrained demonstration of delight at the triple feat event. A young maid hands the bloodwich a charm with the form of a mouse branded into the wood. ”For good luck, you know. A ward against bad times.” She says, laughing merrily before moving on.
If Eadric felt himself a stranger in Heranmar when he first arrived, it certainly isn’t the case after his victory in the triple feat event! It seems all the ladies want to kiss his cheek, while the men want to shake his hand and thump him on the back by way of congratulations!
A hungry Beatrix makes a beeline for the pie vendor…trailed by some very young admirers she recognizes as students from the school.
There’s enough time for one or two more games, before the feast.
Bottle Throw - with a single wooden ball you attempt to knock over as many weighted milk bottles as you can in a single throw. Make a weapon attack with the wooden ball, treating it as an improvised weapon, against (Dexterity or Strength) AC 12 of the milk bottles. On a hit, roll damage against the milk bottles equal to 1d4 + your ability modifier. A 20 on the d20 is still a critical hit when using an improvised weapon, and so you roll 2d4 + your ability modifier.
Coin Flip - using a chip provided, you attempt to flip it into a small cup. (Dexterity or Sleight of Hand) vs DC 15
As the sun moves farther across the sky, the air seems a little cooler. The tide is coming in, lapping at the rock cairns closest to the waters edge. By morning most of them will be gone - an impermanent reflection on life and balance.
The venues on the docks and beach are dismantled, and the townsfolk gradually trickle back into town through the recently refurbished gate. As you move back up towards the centre of town you are greeted by the smells of good food and the sounds of music and merrymaking.
Urist (AC24, HP82of82) (Cayzle) Wednesday August 28th, 2024 11:03:43 PM
Urist looks up from her studies and realizes that her friends have been playing fun games!
She cheers them on.
“Benni” AC 24/12/23 CMD 23. HP 63/ 63 Onesimos (SteveK) d20+3=4 ; d20+1=10 ; d20+8=27 ; Thursday August 29th, 2024 7:29:25 AM
Benni thanks the ladies, "luck has a part to play, but not as important as planning, preparation, and actually doing. Thank you for the token."
The elf has fun trying the different games, not concerned if he is any good at them or not. What is important, he thinks, is the forging bonds of community! - He rolls that wooden ball and laughs at himself as he can't even hit a single bottle (Att 4 [nat 1] ) - He is closer with the coin flip, but still fails to make it in the cup (Att 10) - He does a little mudlarking, walking along the beach at low tide to see if he can find an interesting shell or bit of jetsam, giving away trinkets to others on the shore. (Perception 27)
And he meanders back through the newly made Gate, smiling and waving at friends and neighbors. Music means singing and dancing. Food is fuel for the body, and all the good people celebrating is fuel for Benni's soul: he loves every moment.
Beatrix and Tinkerbell (Mitch) HP 72/72 AC 18/14/16 CMD 22 Tinkerbell HP 32/32 AC 23/15/21 d20+4=16 ; d4=3 ; Thursday August 29th, 2024 7:53:59 AM
Physical education can be just as important as learning numbers so Beatrix gives an impromptu lesson about the proper way to throw things to her admirers and knocks over 7? bottles to demonstrate (16 to hit, 7 'damage')
Snark Riverstone (MarkB) AC23 T14 F20, CMD 15, HP 78/78 Thursday August 29th, 2024 3:32:58 PM
Snark thanks the person that gave him the lady bug trinket, and he pins it to his robe.
Eyeing the bottle game, he takes his Unseen Servant aside.
"OK Spooky - here's what I need you to do. I need you to knock over all them milk bottles when I throw this ball. Got it?
Then he looks around until he finds a box he can stand on to throw the ball. As he winds up to throw, the mindless force that is the Unseen Servant has clearly misunderstood the assignment. The bottles are all pushed over before Snark even throws the ball. Undeterred, Snark then throws the ball. "Whoa! Would you look at that. Them pins was so afraid of me they jumped off the platform before I even threw.
Then he flashes a thumbs-up to where he thinks his Unseen Servant is.
Makis the Lucky (AC 13/13/10, CMD 16. HP 78/78) (Harry) d20+8=15 ; d8=4 ; d20+3=19 ; Thursday August 29th, 2024 4:04:16 PM
Makis tries the ball throw, using some spin (de) to try to knock down some pins. But he is not familiar with the weight of the ball and misses with an 11 (15-4 for improvised, right?)
And he tries to toss the coin into the cup, this time easily succeeding. He is a little pleased with himself both for the success and for not using is luck ability which might be considered cheating,
Urist (AC24, HP82of82) (Cayzle) Thursday August 29th, 2024 8:33:26 PM
Urist enjoys watching her friends strive for victories.
Isaac Harker (Justin M) HP63/91 AC23/ T13 / FF20 d20+2=8 ; Thursday August 29th, 2024 8:57:10 PM
Isaac, tired after a long day of feasting and playing games, decides to relax at the coin toss game. However, he doesn't succeed and falls short of the cup. With a yaw and a stretch, he heads back to town with the others. As he enters the town and the sound of music and dancing, Isaac feels at peace, glad that he has come to Heremnar and has made such good friends both with the luck makers and the town itself.
DM Bob and Carla - ”The best luck of all is the luck you make for yourself.” Friday August 30th, 2024 1:00:04 AM Urist trails after her friends, cheering as they attempt the various challenges.
The Bottle Toss
The Elpis’ brothers try their luck at the bottle toss, but have none, though Makis comes close. Beatrix knocks down half the bottles and is handed a rustic stuffed doll made from red wool, buttons for eyes, and embroidered details. It could be a small dragon, or possibly a kobold. Snark gets a little help from an invisible friend. The gnome’s subterfuge goes undetected, and a large plush doll nearly as big as he is, is tossed to him. It’s a patchwork owlbear made from remnants of upholstery fabric, with large button eyes sewn on with dark thread in an X giving it a dazed appearance. The prizes at this booth are all hand crafted stuffed animals of various sizes made from fabric remnants - likely the work of Miss Maxine and her atelier.
The Coin Toss
Benni, Makis and Isaac give the coin toss a try. The bloodwitch is successful and receives a silver button. The face of the button is a little worn, but Makis can just make out the high Woldian symbol for Gargul - the all seeing eye. Anyone who sees the button Knowledge Local DC 15 Highlight to display spoiler: { to know mariners would have silver buttons such as these sewn as fasteners onto their clothes so that if they perished at sea and their bodies washed ashore, those who found them would use the buttons to pay for burial costs.}
Benni finds some pretty bits of sea glass, and several shells with holes suitable for threading on a cord. The perceptive elf’s best find is a large curled shell, once the home of a sea snail - the rough textured outside a contrast to the smooth, pink inner canal. When the cleric holds it up to his ear, he can hear the sound of the sea.
Bringing up in the rear with the last of the stragglers, the Luck Makers make their way through the Port Gate and up the incline from the lower part of town, to the festivities on the common. Long communal tables groan under a feast of meat, fish, and vegetable dishes, and sweets and savoury foods all served side-by-side. There is good beer, cider, sweetened cold tea, and water. There is music and song.
Just before full dark, Olostim fetches Snark and the two wizards make their way down to the docks and the farthest pier. The townsfolk follow, flowing across the sliver of beach above the high tide and wait with bated breath. A silent spark explodes into a thousand extraordinary particles of light which is then pierced with missiles in all the colours of the rainbow. A BOOM! then ear splitting whistles. Another loud clap, like thunder, and then a whirl in a spiral. A glowing ball shatters into thousands of sparks, smoke and fire tumble like a scarlet waterfall while lanterns of light float up, then burst into a glittering silver shower. One after another explosions and illusions soar into the sky above the port and drift down into the sea until it all comes to an end with a spectacular ra-ta-ta-tat of green missiles, one after the other climbing higher and higher, followed by three large chrysanthemum bursts of colour. A quiet pause is followed by cheering and clapping, and then for the last time, everyone files back into town, to dance, and sing, and make merry under the starry sky.
The community may not have fully embraced Benni’s seven loves, but there are signs that his message that good ‘luck’ is really planning, preparation, and actually doing - has gained a foothold. Certainly the Luck Makers are examples of what hard work and perseverance can achieve - and the community of Heranmar has most certainly embraced our heroes!
“Benni” AC 24/12/23 CMD 23. HP 63/ 63 Onesimos (SteveK) Friday August 30th, 2024 7:50:59 AM
Benni looks to a local jewelry crafter to give away the small beaded bits of shell and glass. For the sea snail shell, he decides that Maggie could use a present, and gives it to their friend.
And then the food! Oh, what a repast! The elf stays to frugality on portion size, but even a bite here and nibble there, he has soon eaten more than he usually does, and drank more too. Oh well, he thinks philosophically, celebrations are a part of love, and properly celebrating includes a little overindulgence!
Ooo, Aah, Ohh! He enjoys the skyshow as well, conscious that the town is watching, and that a stodgy cleric won't influence the young generation if he doesn't participate. It's not hard, Benni is enjoying himself!
Beatrix and Tinkerbell (Mitch) HP 72/72 AC 18/14/16 CMD 22 Tinkerbell HP 32/32 AC 23/15/21 Friday August 30th, 2024 8:21:26 AM
Beatrix enjoys the rest of the celebrations and really likes the fireworks show. Knowing it's magic adds an extra layer of guessing what spells are being used that adds to the interest and enjoyment.
Snark Riverstone (MarkB) AC23 T14 F20, CMD 15, HP 78/78 Friday August 30th, 2024 4:29:06 PM
Snark sputters a bit when he wins the prize, but decides to give the owlbear to Maggie for her kids.
He greatly enjoys the food and drinks, but it's careful not to drink to much since he plans to be throwing around fireballs later.
As he and Olistim begin the fireworks show, he will use Dancing Lights to create harmless floating lights amongst the crowd. Then he helps in earnest with the sky show, including illusions and fireballs like they discussed.
When it's all finished, he's a bit exhausted. That's a lot of spell slinging.
Makis the Lucky (AC 13/13/10, CMD 16. HP 78/78) (Harry) Friday August 30th, 2024 5:20:00 PM
Makis is delighted with them little silver button and will replace a button on his jacket with it and display it proudly. Feeling more like he fits in that is usual for him he relaxes some and goes to look for his brother to enjoy the fireworks with. The day has gone very well but he has a funny feeling about it and decides to try to scry on the lady thief once again when he returns to the house. If she were to come to the southern island he would want to know.
Isaac Harker (Justin M) HP63/91 AC23/ T13 / FF20 d20+2=13 ; Friday August 30th, 2024 5:55:08 PM
Isaac feel good as he watches the fireworks with Wren. The town has certainly seems to come alive now that the threat of the Abbey and the angry sea have been quelled. He claps along with everyone and takes part in the dancing after the fireworks.
Eadric Wolfe (Ben V) AC27 T19 FF27 CMD 27 83/83HP Friday August 30th, 2024 10:02:46 PM
Eadric enjoys the festivities and fireworks, spending his night drinking and eating his fill. It is a nice break from the past adventure, and an even more welcome departure from the monotonous existence that was his life before the Luck Makers.
Urist (AC24, HP82of82) (Cayzle) Saturday August 31st, 2024 10:24:19 PM
Urist eats too much good food and drinks even more good drink!
DM Bob and Carla - ”No fixed agenda…” Alsanna’s Will save d20+12=25 Sunday September 1st, 2024 11:14:51 PM
The day after the festivities is a quiet one, and some folks are moving a little slow. Any who venture out note several shops at the Tradehouse are closed though Corinn’s Cures is open and doing a brisk business. The WLA booth is open, and Miles indoctrinates Eadric into the Woldian League of Adventurers and affixes the pin badge onto the man’s tunic. Since Miles is the only one staffing the WLA outpost, Eadric’s training - and that of other Luck Makers gets scheduled over the course of a week or two.
The next day it’s business as usual. Snark calls on Olostim and is provided with a quiet place to work on his transcription of the Teleportation spell. The senior wizard will answer questions and provide assistance as necessary, but otherwise busies himself packing a chest Snark recognizes as being the one rescued from the wreckers - the one that belonged to Olostim’s friend.
A dwarf with a laden hand cart pulls up to Luck Makers house and calls out, ”delivery from the Catacombs!” before handing out parcels to the occupants. ”Parcel #2220 for Mr. Onesimos Elpis, #2221 for Mr. Eadric Wolfe, and #2222 for Pharmakis Elpis.” Looking apologetically at the centaur, the dwarf adds: ”we’re a little short staffed, Miss Beatrice, but we’ll have your order processed and delivered as soon as we can.”
The magickers discuss spell sharing and Snark offers to open his spell books for Urist, and explores with Makis the feasibility of translating the bloodwitch’s magic into something he can transcribe into written form.
Worried about trouble coming to his new home, Makis borrows Snark’s silver mirror and attempts to scry on Alsanna however fails in his attempt (25 Will Save vs DC 21)
Isaac learns that the ghost of Waldo has been making a pest of himself. Nothing dangerous mind, but he’s been spotted in the street near the Luck Makers house and it’s giving the neighbours the creeps.
With no fixed agenda, the Luck Makers divide their time between upgrading their skills and physical conditioning, learning and creating new things, and extending their friendships in the community.
(OOC: the heroes are in down time and have a month to do what heroes do during quiet time between adventures. Please describe in broad strokes, what your character would like to reasonably do/achieve over that time.)
Beatrix and Tinkerbell (Mitch) HP 76/76 AC 20/16/18 CMD 22 Tinkerbell HP 32/32 AC 23/15/21 Monday September 2nd, 2024 10:52:43 AM
Beatrix has no problems waiting for her stuff. She'll spend the month doing her usual assortment of teaching, physical exercise, and reading. With no active adventures going on at some point she'll get restless and try to wrangle some of the others into finding something to go fight.
“Benni” AC 24/12/23 CMD 23. HP 63/ 63 Onesimos (SteveK) Monday September 2nd, 2024 12:02:14 PM
Onesimos is concerned about Waldo’s haunt, and takes the time one evening to catch up Beatrix, Makis, Eadric, and Urist on the history. Waldo was a townsman who was alive when the LuckMakers formed. He had a dog, some sheep, and a reputation for fooling around with married women. He disappeared and the Luck Makers found his body on an outbuilding roof of the Abbey: scared to death. When they go in search of the Woad Hunters, they had to fight Waldo’s dog and sheep who were crazy by something they ate. And, Waldo’s haunt has been seen around the Abbey for months.
Personnally, Benni was hoping that the haunts would stop with the Abbey problem, but it appears that was not the only form of strangeness in Heranmar!
The elf looks about at Isaac and Snark to see if they remembered anything more.
Snark Riverstone (MarkB) AC23 T14 F20, CMD 15, HP 78/78 Monday September 2nd, 2024 4:02:08 PM
Snark gets down to business.
He learned Persistent Image in preparation for the fireworks. Afterward, he learns Teleport from Olostim. He thanks the old wizard for his help with this. He again offers his spellbook should Olostim need any he has, and he offers to help with things around the lighthouse before returning to Heranmar.
Back in town, he will work with Makis to see if the Bloodwitch can help him learn Baleful Polymorph, Dominate Person, and Break Enchantment. (Snark's Spellcraft is 21 so he shouldn't have any trouble leaning spells.)
He will go to the Catacombs and buy a scroll or two to add to his spellbook.
Makis the Lucky (AC 13/13/10, CMD 16. HP 78/78) (Harry) Monday September 2nd, 2024 8:54:05 PM
Makis prioritizes helping Snark with the complex transcription of a witch's casting to that of the true arcane. When not so engaged he will spend the required two full days in training at the WLA for his new feat. And after that training he will use some of his spare time offering to help train others at the WLA. but each day just before dusk he will try to scry once more on Alsanna trying to determine both her habits and location.
Urist (AC24, HP82of82) (Cayzle) Monday September 2nd, 2024 11:06:32 PM
Urist spends some time at the WLA, both training and offering her services to train others. She also spends time in town helping others both with work, entertainments, and quiet donations where she thinks they will do some good.
DM Bob and Carla - ”Wrapping up…loose ends” Tuesday September 3rd, 2024 1:03:03 AM
When she isn’t teaching, reading, or working on her physical conditioning, Beatrix goes looking for trouble. Unfortunately for the centaur, she and the other Luck Makers are held in such high regard as heroes- no one seems interested in starting a fight with her!
Olostim thanks Snark for his generosity with his spell books, but declines the offer. He lets the greenmage know he’ll be away for a while. The chest full of his friend’s documents should be archived at the Star Mages Guild, and he, himself, would like to do a little research.
Makis prioritizes working collaboratively with Snark in an attempt to learn if the spells that come so naturally to him, can be broken down in such a way that the little wizard can translate them into a magic that can be written down and learned. The Bloodwitch explains how he shapes the magical energies, plucked as invisible strands of raw magic, and how he pins them in place in a particular pattern, setting them vibrating in a specific way, and then releasing them to unleash the desired effect. He shares the words and movements he uses to actually convey the spell, and provides a translation, if Snark does not know the language. Towards the end of each cycle of research and learning - the duo find a safe place to practice, and a willing subject or two to practice upon. It takes one week of collaboration for Snark to master each spell.
Makis is able to catch a break from the intensity of his work with the blue haired gnome, and spends two days camping in the Druid Wood with the WLA representative ‘Miles’ during which time he learns how to get along in the wild. On the last day, they come across a mock disaster - with Urist and some of the other Luck Makers who are WLA members, as the victims - and the Bloodwitch gets to demonstrate his first aid skills. The troubadour gets to put her acting chops to work as the victim of a dire wolf attack.
Onesimos’ hopes that resolving the Abbey problem would have laid all of Heranmar’s haunts to rest are quashed when he learns that Waldo has been hanging around Luck Maker’s House. He shares Waldo’s story with those of the party who arrived after the demise of the womanizer. The cleric and his companions have developed an expertise in dealing with the undead, and Benni knows it’s difficult to destroy a ghost through simple combat. Even the most powerful spells are usually only temporary solutions. The only way to permanently destroy a ghost is to determine the reason for its existence and set right whatever prevents it from resting in peace. But why is Waldo hanging around their place? What could he possibly want?
No matter how busy he is during the day, Makis finds an hour to use his borrowed silver mirror and attempts to scry on his nemesis. Sometimes he is successful, often he is not. For many days she was at sea. Whether on deck or alone in her room, the Bloodwitch can hear the lapping of the water. At some point she is once again travelling by carriage. Soon after, all attempts at scrying are met with failure, as if she is sheltered from his magical spying. From what he has been able to see, he determines Alsanna is not anywhere he has ever been during his 120 years in the Wold!
Beatrix and Tinkerbell (Mitch) HP 76/76 AC 20/16/18 CMD 22 Tinkerbell HP 32/32 AC 23/15/21 Tuesday September 3rd, 2024 8:15:06 AM
Oh, she wouldn't start a fight in town. Heranamar is in a wild area with lots of monsters in the wilderness, she'd go find one. Or rather wander around until she got a random encounter, you can't go anywhere without something showing up in D&D land :P
“Benni” AC 24/12/23 CMD 23. HP 63/ 63 Onesimos (SteveK) d20=3 ; d20+9=22 ; d20+11=25 ; d100=14 ; Tuesday September 3rd, 2024 10:07:01 AM
Benni has plenty to do in Heranmar such as training and helping Miles train the others at the WLA, although he is sure his acting was quite wooden and stilted (Perform: 3). Daily walks about town, telling stories (Perform: 22), tidying the Sanctuary of the Sea, and generally helping where asked. Making plans for improving the Luck Makers House. And trying to learn why Waldo is hanging about.
The last is more just spending most of his free evenings after dark sitting on the front step of Luck Makers House, thinking (Know Religion: 25), and waiting to see if Waldo wants to manifest with the elf. Even as a cleric with a lot of undead experience, Benni has few resources to learn more about why Waldo keeps about. Speak with Dead won't work: that can't get information after death. So to get a clue, Benni tries Divination to get a useful piece of advice in reply to his question" "How can the Luck Makers help put Waldo's Haunt to rest?" (% 14)
Eadric Wolfe (Ben V) AC27 T19 FF27 CMD 27 83/83HP Tuesday September 3rd, 2024 1:33:15 PM
After spending time with his new companions, Eadric realizes that the WLA is probably a good place to be! Everyone he's met has been an amazing person. With that revelation he, goes to the WLA building in Heranmar and says his Oath!
(Not sure what the process is for continuing training at the WLA, but Eadric would intend on getting as far as he can within the month.)
Snark Riverstone (MarkB) AC23 T14 F20, CMD 15, HP 78/78 Tuesday September 3rd, 2024 4:03:42 PM
Snark Olostim farewell. He asks how long the wizard intends to be gone and who will man the lighthouse.
Returning to town, he'll work with Makis, thanking the Bloodwitch for his help. He makes a run to the Catacombs and begins work on a magic item.
(I'm travelling abroad, so there may be a bit of delay in getting stuff attended to.)
Urist (AC24, HP82of82) (Cayzle) Tuesday September 3rd, 2024 8:15:29 PM
Urist wonders when the party will next be called to trouble. She makes sure all her gear is topped off. She spends time practicing with her upgraded maul.
DM Bob and Carla - ”Wrapping up…loose ends” d2=2 this doesn’t mean anything… Wednesday September 4th, 2024 12:00:26 AM Beatrix and Urist commiserate over the lack of excitement in Heranmar.
The Woldian League of Adventurers (https://www.woldiangames.com/Woldipedia/index.php/The_Woldian_League_of_Adventurers) ticks all the boxes for Eadric, and the fellow in charge of the stall is happy to expound on the organization and it’s benefits to an adventurer. Eadric learns that the Heranmar branch is a recently established outpost given the WLA considers the Downs a hinterland. Maethor Mahtor, or ‘Miles’ as he is known is a highly intelligent elf with a long face, lightly tanned skin, pale blonde hair and incongrously dark brows set above dark eyes. He is methodical with his record keeping and is always fact checking information before sending his regular dispatches to ‘headquarters’ in Plateau City. Most evenings he can be found at the Blue Cat with his lute. If Eadric has the coin, he can progress through the ranks (and gain the benefits) from membership. (OOC: list WLA membership, training, level, and the badge on your PC sheet under equipment. Note the amount of dues paid - since this goes towards the value of your base loot, just like your equipment. See the link above. DM if you have questions.)
Olostim lets Snark know the lighthouse is set on automatic, and the tower itself has been warded. His plans aren’t fixed. He might go visit a few of his friends in their towers when he’s finished his business in Plateau City. He’ll be gone maybe a month or two?
Benni puzzles over the conundrum that is Waldo. He remembers the distress of the ghostly monks when Snark tried to leave the Abbey’s Great Hall with a couple of books. So what’s Waldo’s issue? The cleric decides to seek a little divine guidance - and gets a response!
The family ties that bind, are a warm and loving embrace. Without the matriarch’s gift, his spirit will haunt this place.
Beatrix and Tinkerbell (Mitch) HP 76/76 AC 20/16/18 CMD 22 Tinkerbell HP 32/32 AC 23/15/21 Wednesday September 4th, 2024 8:06:19 AM
Well hey solving a ghost problem isn't a fight but it'll be a fun distraction. Beatrix will help ask around town as to what the "Matriarch's Gift" could be after hearing what Benni has to share (presuming he does share)
“Benni” AC 24/12/23 CMD 23. HP 63/ 63 Onesimos (SteveK) Wednesday September 4th, 2024 8:44:11 AM
Benni shares. :-)
He also speculates that there are three probable 'matriarchs' when it comes to what they know of Waldo. "It could be his family tree. We know nothing about any relatives in or around Heranmar, so some descreet questions or looking at the towns archives (if any), may provide us some clues."
"Second, Waldo was a womanizer, and so could be any number of ladies, the latest was rumored to be Big John's wife. We can't just ask around for this information without disrupting the community, so lets' not delve into that until the other options are run to ground."
"Last, the matriarch could be a nod to one of the Crones, and may be Pharmakis can look into that?" Onesimos becomes more formal to account for how uncomfortable he is even mentioning the Immortals of the South and their current high priestess, Honora.
............
After consulting with the Luck Makers, Benni will check out Quendock Mansion and see if there are records on town families...
Snark Riverstone (MarkB) AC23 T14 F20, CMD 15, HP 78/78 Wednesday September 4th, 2024 5:51:35 PM
Snark returns from the Catacombs and awaits delivery of the two scrolls.
He turns to everyone and lets them know their share of the loot.
"I sold the mundane stuff we had, and all but two of the healing potions.
Here's what everyone's share is: Benni - 13,003 gp plus one Cure Moderate Wounds potion Makis - 13,003 gp plus one Cure Moderate Wounds potion Isaac - 13,303 gp Beatrix - 13,303 gp Urist - 13,303 gp Eadric - 13,303 gp Snark - 13,303 gp"
Then he starts crafting his Headband of Vast Intelligence, raising the bonus from +2 to +4. (The Spellcraft DC is 13, the cost is 9,000 GP and it takes him 12 days. He will cut that time in half by raising the crafting DC to 18. His Spellcraft is +21.)
Isaac Harker (Justin M) HP63/91 AC23/ T13 / FF20 Wednesday September 4th, 2024 7:17:26 PM
Isaac is mostly helping out around town acting as a guard helping people and checking various matters. When he hears about Waldo's ghost he also starts investigating the restless spirit. He also confides in Benni after Waldo's death Isaac got a hold of his scarf that is the most likely interpretation of the Matriarch's gift. Isaac also theorizes Waldo was killed by the hanging tree spirit. "I've been searching for his ghost, but he never seems to appear when I'm around and the tree spirit when I looked into it was incredibly powerful."
Urist (AC24, HP82of82) (Cayzle) Wednesday September 4th, 2024 8:49:28 PM
[OOC: That loot total would put Urist like 10,000 above WBL. Is that right?]
Urist thanks Snark for running the Catacombs errand and offers to Aid him in his crafting.
Aid Another spellcraft check gives an auto +2 since I can't roll below 10.
Makis the Lucky (AC 13/13/10, CMD 16. HP 78/78) (Harry) Wednesday September 4th, 2024 9:59:25 PM
ooc: Looks like my last turn reposted on its own again. :(
Makis really has no other plans between his attempts to scry and his helping Snark with research. Wen he starts failing his scrying attempts he will switch to scrying on the servant/driver.
(OOC: Double post deleted - DM Carla)
DM Bob and Carla - ”Wrapping up…loose ends” Wednesday September 4th, 2024 11:14:16 PM Snark maximizes his downtime by optimizing his proficiencies. Urist gives the blue haired gnome a helping hand.
Beatrix and Benni make discreet enquiries into Waldo’s background. They are careful not to ruffle any feather’s considering the ne’er-do-well’s reputation.
It’s common knowledge that Waldo was raised by his grandmother after his parents died when he was a young lad. She was known to be a fine craftswoman. After the family’s sheep were sheered, she carded, washed, and dyed the wool before spinning it into yarn suitable for knitting. Many a fisherman went to sea wearing warm wool socks and sweaters knit by Waldo’s gran! She supported the boy and herself with the silver they paid for the garments she knit. Alas, Waldo was a wild boy, and after his gran passed, his behaviour only got wilder, landing him in a good deal of trouble with the locals. The old lady is buried in the cemetery outside the town walls, and Waldo’s grave as well.
When Isaac learns about Waldo’s haunt, and the results of Benni’s divination, he volunteers that he kept a ‘souvenir’ from the site of Waldo’s death. One of their group (Kristoph) deduced the shepherd had died by misadventure - his long braids wrapped around his neck, and snagged on a broken board when he fell through the roof - effectively hanging himself.
Any time Makis switched his observation from Alsanna to Karlos, he gathers similar information. They are at sea for many days. The manservant has eyes only for his mistress, and appears tireless in his vigil. He is also the one at the reigns of the travelling carriage - day and night. When his attempts fail consistently, the bloodwitch has no choice but to believe the duo are in a place that is shielded from his mind.
“Benni” AC 24/12/23 CMD 23. HP 63/ 63 Onesimos (SteveK) Thursday September 5th, 2024 7:45:15 AM
Benni thinks from what Beatrix and he learned about Waldo and what Isaac said about his memento, the scarf has to be the Matriarch's Gift. "And that's why he is hanging about our house, too. Isaac, would you like to take a trip to the cemetery outside the walls with me tonight? We can see if Waldo wants it direct or if we should inter it with his remains."
The elf readies himself for a nighttime vigil at Waldo's grave.
Beatrix and Tinkerbell (Mitch) HP 76/76 AC 20/16/18 CMD 22 Tinkerbell HP 32/32 AC 23/15/21 Thursday September 5th, 2024 8:11:18 AM
Beatrix gets lots of sleep in case they're up all night dealing with the ghost.
Snark Riverstone (MarkB) AC23 T14 F20, CMD 15, HP 78/78 Thursday September 5th, 2024 3:31:21 PM
Snark works on some of his herbal concoctions.
He'll wander about town occasionally, looking to see if there are ways to help out local folks with his healing herbals, or maybe casting Wall of Stone. He'll cast Mending, Unseen Servant, and Minor Creation as needed.
Makis the Lucky (AC 13/13/10, CMD 16. HP 78/78) (Harry) Thursday September 5th, 2024 5:39:58 PM
Makis will offer to help with the ghost/haunt and will share the results of his scrying with the group.
I am a little concerned about the long boat trip. They could be coming here.
Eadric Wolfe (Ben V) AC27 T19 FF27 CMD 27 83/83HP Thursday September 5th, 2024 8:43:21 PM
Eadric will spend time at the WLA advancing to Journeyman rank, training Run and paying his dues.
Urist (AC24, HP82of82) (Cayzle) Thursday September 5th, 2024 9:42:49 PM
Urist is down with spending the night in a cemetery to find out where's Waldo?
"I just hope there's no fog," she says, "because then he'll be mist."
Isaac Harker (Justin M) HP63/91 AC23/ T13 / FF20 Thursday September 5th, 2024 11:30:09 PM
Isaac agrees to come along to the cemetery, "I've been trying to lay this ghost to rest since I heard about it, but I've always thought I had to give him the scarf directly. You think he will show up?"
DM Bob and Carla - ”Wrapping up…loose ends” Friday September 6th, 2024 12:14:07 AM
Any assessment of Eadric’s ability to meet the requirements of run is a mere formality after his performance at the triple feat event! The man passes the WLA tests with flying colours and is levelled up.
Denied further access to Alsanna and Karlos, Makis returns the silver mirror to Snark. The bloodwitch shares his impressions with his friends, as well as his concerns about trouble visiting Heranmar.
The indefatigable Snark scours the gardens of Heranmar and the nearby forest for ingredients for his herbals, which he shares with those in need. He finds his services are most appreciated by those living in the lower (and poorer) part of town.
Benni plans for a nighttime visit to the cemetery and invites Isaac to bring the scarf the party found at the site of Waldo’s demise. Hopefully a way to restore the item to its owner can be figured out?
Beatrix naps during the day, saving her energy for the nigh-time adventure.
Urist hopes the weather is conducive to good visibility.
*******
When full dark arrives, and sufficient time has passed that most of the townsfolk have settled in for the night, the Luck Makers strike out for the cemetery. It’s a full moon, and everyone knows a full moon allows spirits to gain more of a presence and manifest into the physical Wold, so it’s no surprise that the party spot the ghost of Waldo looking balefully at the party as they exit the house. The spirit makes no attempt to stop the heroes as they make for the cemetary , but rather trails after them at a respectful distance, though closer to Isaac than any other party member.
Arriving at the cemetery, the family plot where Waldo is interred is easily found. There’s a stone monument with a sculpted lamb atop it. It’s an old monument. Some of the detail has been worn down, but you can make out the names: Winona and Walter on one side, Wilma on another. The grass is long and undisturbed, with the exception of a 3ft wide, 7 ft long patch where new growth is patchy in spots and the inscription on the monument - WALDO - is recent.
“Benni” AC 24/12/23 CMD 23. HP 63/ 63 Onesimos (SteveK) Friday September 6th, 2024 7:13:19 AM
Onesimos gives Waldo a wave of greeting; this is turning out better than he thought! "We are going to take care of you and get you to the Lands of Rest, Waldo." A walk to the cemetery and Waldo's family plot give the friends an easy location, too.
"Isaac, I would try different things; handing the scarf to Waldo, draping it on the family stone then Waldo's stone and then on the bare earth. If nothing works... well, can our arcane casters burrow or move earth a couple of times so we disturb the remains as little as possible?"
The elf only gives suggestions, knowing the actions will have to be the paladin's.
Beatrix and Tinkerbell (Mitch) HP 76/76 AC 20/16/18 CMD 22 Tinkerbell HP 32/32 AC 23/15/21 d20=3 ; Friday September 6th, 2024 10:56:35 AM
Beatrix stands back and lets the holy men do their work. She'll try to keep her eyes out to stop anything that might interrupt or interfere. 3 perception
Eadric Wolfe (Ben V) AC27 T19 FF27 CMD 27 83/83HP Friday September 6th, 2024 3:37:06 PM
Eadric also stands aside, letting those more familiar with the situation lead the way.
Isaac Harker (Justin M) HP63/91 AC23/ T13 / FF20 d20+18=21 ; Friday September 6th, 2024 9:33:57 PM
Isaac looks over at Waldo "I have been looking for you." Isaac takes the scarf out of his back pack and tries to hand it to Waldo. If it's not taken Isaac will try and remember any details about laying spirits to rest before following Bennie's instructions. Know Religion:21
Urist (AC24, HP82of82) (Cayzle) d20+20=31 ; Saturday September 7th, 2024 12:12:50 PM
Urist plays a religious song on her mandolin to help encourage the proceedings.
Play Strings: 31
Snark Riverstone (MarkB) AC23 T14 F20, CMD 15, HP 78/78 Saturday September 7th, 2024 4:03:50 PM
Snark is sure his friends don't need his help with the ghost, so he continues his work, helping around town as he's able.
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