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The Outpost


The Outpost - DM Jess- Maps and documents  
Monday September 2nd, 2024 10:21:37 AM
Dapple waits for Yofiel to report what she saw from her place on the lookout post. [ Yofiel describes what she sees to the heroes, noting that the way to the outpost seems to be blocked by the wall of spiky vegetation.

Einar, Highlight to display spoiler: {from your previous trip to the outpost, you know that the wall of spiked vegetation is not blocking the path to the outpost, it is the outpost, where you received a slightly chilly greeting. You were told to leave your wares in front of the vegetation}

As you approach, you notice from the rainforest floor, the fence looks almost like natural vegetation, and might easily be passed by someone who didn’t know what to look for. As you investigate the area, the party notes that the fortifications of this compound take advantage of a natural cliff, which prevents access on three sides.


Yofiel (Kim McCoy), female elf bard 5th AC 16/16/14 HP: 33/33 
Monday September 2nd, 2024 11:14:14 AM

Yofiel gets out her gittern, and spends a moment tuning it as she tells the party, "Let us approach with peaceable mien, and see what reception is given us. We would do well to ensure our two outposts establish good terms."

"Hail, with greetings of peace to those of goodwill. We travel from Cloudhaven. May we talk?" As the bard speaks, she plays a gentle tune on her stringed instrument.

Yofiel (Kim McCoy), female elf bard 5th AC 16/16/14 HP: 33/33  d20+11=19 ; d20+10=22 ;
Monday September 2nd, 2024 12:43:10 PM

Thought I should add in Yofiel's Perform: 19 with her gittern, and diplomatic attempt: 22

I don't know whether the bardic musical performance might add to the diplomatic foray. And I do understand that a diplomacy check requires about a minute - so she will let the notes from her instrument help do the talking.

Dapple [AC 18; HP 28/28] (Kathy) 
Monday September 2nd, 2024 4:58:56 PM
"Are you sure somebody's home?" Dapple asks uncertainly. She remembers the unmanned watchtower.

Colt Human Rogue (Tim) AC 18 T 14 FF 14 HP 50/50 CMD 20 
Monday September 2nd, 2024 8:32:43 PM
"Things look intact. If Maya cruised through here with her pets, surely there'd be damage everywhere." Colt leaves his guisarme with the travois and follows Yofiel toward the outpost.

Siolo (Joe) - AC 15/13/13 ; HP 28/28 , NL 0 
Monday September 2nd, 2024 11:00:54 PM
Siolo carefully inspects the vegetation wall. The intentional growth of briars doesn't escape him. He stares at the wall in thought as Yofiel begins her performance.

(in druidic) "We come in peace and to check on you!" Siolo shouts to the wall.

Einar (StevenVdB) - HP68/68 - AC19/13/16 - CMD 21 
Tuesday September 3rd, 2024 7:56:26 AM
"Plants are not blocking the path to the outpost, it is the outpost... but they did not let me pass... just chilly greetings and I was told to leave my wares in front of the vegetation. I did... still would not let me in.
I think they don't want anyone in carrying weapons?"

Einar patiently waits in front of the spiked vegetation. Perhaps Yofiel will have more success or perhaps someone will come out to greet them.

The Outpost - DM Jess- Maps and documents  
Tuesday September 3rd, 2024 10:26:12 AM
Yofiel plays on her gittern as she makes the hero’s first overtures to the inhabitants of the outpost.

Dapple questions if the outpost is actually occupied.

Colt notes that everything looks intact.

Siolo calls out a greeting in druidic.

Einar confirms that this is the outpost and explains that he received a chilly reception last time he was here.

Kaze and Ezekiel are quiet.

A half-orc male comes into view on the wall. He is tall and lean with grayish skin and long dark hair that he wears in a plate down his back and appears to be in his mid-thirties. He eyes the group warily, his gaze settling on Siolo. “I do not understand the words you spoke, but their shape is known to me. You are a druid. What is your business here?”

Sense motives DC 20: Highlight to display spoiler: {The half-orc’s demeanor is gruff and unwelcoming. You sense that his wariness of strangers is the result of fear rather than a more general misanthropy. Something--or someone--has him worried.}


Yofiel (Kim McCoy), female elf bard 5th AC 16/16/14 HP: 33/33  d20+11=12 ;
Tuesday September 3rd, 2024 11:08:05 AM

The fellow at the wall reminds her of Grim Ripr, but she is having a hard time reading him. However, as he addressed his question to Siolo, she defers to him to answer.

==========
Sense Motive: 12

Ezekiel (BrianW) - AC 17/13/14; HP 38/38 
Tuesday September 3rd, 2024 11:27:03 AM
"Be wary," warns Ezekiel. "I feel as though this half-orc might be about taunt us. Perhaps even for a second time."

Dapple [AC 18; HP 28/28] (Kathy)  d20+3=7 ;
Tuesday September 3rd, 2024 1:53:25 PM
Dapple wonders whether the half-orc is lean because he's just that way, or if the outpost is having food supply issues. She can't tell from this distance.

"And me without a giant wooden rabbit," she murmurs to Ezekiel.

Siolo (Joe) - AC 15/13/13 ; HP 28/28 , NL 0 
Tuesday September 3rd, 2024 11:26:48 PM
Siolo gives him a serious nod in recognition and then his seriousness breaks into a smile. "A few things, really. The foremost is to check on you all to make sure that you are alright. The dangers of this land have magnified of late and we are on its tail in solving."

"The second is to establish working trade routes to and from Clouhaven. I care greatly about the natural wold. I also care about people who just want a symbiotic relationship with the natural wold."

"Which leads to the last thing. We are looking for someone." Siolo turns to Yofiel with a head nod, "The lady knows more than I about this."

Yofiel (Kim McCoy), female elf bard 5th AC 16/16/14 HP: 33/33 
Wednesday September 4th, 2024 12:41:47 AM

Yofiel sets the end of the instrument to rest upon her left foot as she listens. At Sofiel's prompting, she says, "We were told to seek Master Ebin Waelius, a wizard, one who has been studying the plants local to this area. According to our source, his last known location was this outpost."

Einar (StevenVdB) - HP68/68 - AC19/13/16 - CMD 21  d20=8 ; d20+6=20 ;
Wednesday September 4th, 2024 2:35:27 AM
(Sense motive 8)

Einar doesn't interfere as the more eloquent talk to the Half-Orc. Instead he patiently waits holding no agressive stance.

While he waits he does keep an eye out on his surroundings... (perception 20)

Colt Human Rogue (Tim) AC 18 T 14 FF 14 HP 50/50 CMD 20 
Wednesday September 4th, 2024 8:00:12 AM
Colt looks up at the halforc on the wall, and waits on the discussion to come. Fog bank circles his feet a few times before settling down.

The Outpost - DM Jess- Maps and documents  
Wednesday September 4th, 2024 9:45:16 AM
Yofiel allows Siolo to take the lead. He informs the half-orc of their objectives and prompts Yofiel to share what she knows about Master Ebin Waelius.

Though at this point, there has been no suggestion that any of the group’s parents were hamsters or smelled of elderberries, Ezekiel warns the group that they might be taunted. Dapple bemoans not having a giant wooden rabbit.

Einar and Colt let the others do the talking.

“Aye,” the half-orc responds. “This has long been a place full of dangers--and it grows ever more dangerous with each waxing moon. So you’ll understand why I must be cautious. You speak well, but do you speak truly? How can I know that you are to be trusted? I can reveal no more of this place until I can be sure that our secrets will not be used against us.”

Anyone who attempts to persuade the half-orc to trust our heroes, please make a diplomacy check. And remember that you can elect to aid another, so even if your character is not super charismatic, they can still help.



Ezekiel (BrianW) - AC 17/13/14; HP 38/38  d20+5=9 ;
Wednesday September 4th, 2024 10:10:59 AM
"Good orc, we mean you no harm," says Ezekiel. "If we meant you harm, there would be thunder and lightning, but as you can see, there is none."

Aid Another Diplomacy: 9.

Yofiel (Kim McCoy), female elf bard 5th AC 16/16/14 HP: 33/33  d20+10=17 ;
Wednesday September 4th, 2024 11:16:58 AM

The brown-eyed red-haired elf speaks. "I am Yofiel, daughter of the bard Skilvin and of Diennia, a litster and seamstress. My family hales from far distant Emerald City in the Culverwood. My friends here come from many backgrounds. We were brought together largely by being in Cloudhaven at the time that a large number of dinosaurs under the influence of Maya, a monstrologer, attacked the outpost about a year ago.

"A representative of the Woldian League of Adventurers a few days ago stopped by Cloudhaven. He told us of this outpost, wanting to know how you fared. He also told us of the wizard I mentioned. Rothlorien of Cloudhaven asked if we would visit you. Einar, here," and she nods towards the man, "had stopped by this very gate not long ago, but was sent on his way without entry. I have found him so far to be an honest man, and good to have at our side in our recent battle against some deinonychus who attacked us at night.

"We have a small gift, and would like to speak with people here about trade and mutual support. Will you let us in, or send us away?"

==========
Diplomacy: 17 - along with whatever other support given by others might add to it

Siolo (Joe) - AC 15/13/13 ; HP 28/28 , NL 0  d20=20 ;
Wednesday September 4th, 2024 11:51:37 AM
The red haired druid places a hand on his chest, "I am Siolo Sidhe of the Circle of Alder of the Floating City. As you said, words are just words. I offer actions in proof. Please, let us aid you to show our sincerity."

((Diplomacy aid 20+2=22))

Dapple [AC 18; HP 28/28] (Kathy)  d20+3=18 ;
Wednesday September 4th, 2024 1:13:43 PM
Dapple waves. "Hi! I'm a halfling. You can trust me, because even if I turn on you I'm pretty sure you can take me."

[Aid Another, 18, success]

Kaze (JonS) HP 42/45 AC 19/Touch & Flat Footed AC 14/ CMD: 18/ CMB: 6/ Grapple: 7  Diplomacy check: d20+2=22 ;
Wednesday September 4th, 2024 9:17:33 PM
Kaze moves forward as people are introducing themselves, "Hail and well met. I am Kaw-zay No Oh Ka. We have come from Cloudhaven. Nice place, but in the midst of rebuilding themselves. If needed, I'd, and perhaps all of us would be willing to either peaceknot, or hand over our weapons as a gesture of good faith."

OOC: Sorry last two days have SUCKED for me lol

Yofiel (Kim McCoy), female elf bard 5th AC 16/16/14 HP: 33/33 
Thursday September 5th, 2024 2:35:56 AM

Yofiel adds her diplomacy effort to that of Siolo, sending a +2 his direction. I think all together that should put him up to about 26,

Einar (StevenVdB) - HP68/68 - AC19/13/16 - CMD 21  d20-1=9 ;
Thursday September 5th, 2024 5:33:21 AM
Einar presents something that resembles a smile as Yofiel introduces him to the Half-Orc.

"Einar Stormflower sir... needed to trade for ingots for smithy... euhm... hi... ?! " (aid diplomacy 9)

Unsure how to behave Einar shuffles from one foot to the other.

Colt Human Rogue (Tim) AC 18 T 14 FF 14 HP 50/50 CMD 20  d20+2=20 ;
Thursday September 5th, 2024 7:36:22 AM
Colt continues to stand instead of sitting, if only because getting up again in his new armor would be more effort than continuing to stand.

He tries his best to look harmless. How hard can that be for a rail thin 16 year old in 2nd hand armor?

[Ooc] Aid diplomacy roll is 20. [/OOC]



The Outpost - DM Jess- Maps and documents  
Thursday September 5th, 2024 9:06:40 AM
The party makes their introductions and appeals to the half-or, who stands silent as they speak, his expression neutral, though his eyes do narrow--almost imperceptibly--at Ezekiel’s words.

After the heroes have said their piece, he replies, “Siolo Sidhe of the Circle of Alder of the Floating City, Yofiel daughter of the bard Skilvin and of Diennia, Kaw-zay No Oh Ka, Einar Stormflower, I am Calbark. You and your companions, you are welcome here.” He eyes Dapple, [b] “Though do not think me fool enough to underestimate someone’s capabilities because of their size.” His gaze then turns to Ezekiel, “And rest assured that we have weathered many storms here and have the means to do so again, should the need arise. I hope that it will not.”

“What--and who--you speak of is best not shouted about. Enter as guests. We will break bread and talk.”

As he says this, the vegetation before you begins to move, shifting to create a small passage way fro you to enter through.


Ezekiel (BrianW) - AC 17/13/14; HP 38/38 
Thursday September 5th, 2024 9:33:11 AM
Ezekiel turns to the others. "Why did he single me out like that? And how did he know I was a storm sorcerer? Though I suppose that I should be flattered that he thinks I can make whole storms and not just lightning wiggly-woos."

Einar (StevenVdB) - HP68/68 - AC19/13/16 - CMD 21  d20+6=18 ;
Thursday September 5th, 2024 11:30:27 AM
Einar makes a light bow to Calbark and follows his friends into the outpost - he'll close the ranks as they move in. Once inside he of course is curious about what to find... (perception 18)

Yofiel (Kim McCoy), female elf bard 5th AC 16/16/14 HP: 33/33  d20+14=20 ;
Thursday September 5th, 2024 11:40:07 AM

"It's your way with words, Ezekiel," she responds to the sorcerer.

"Thank you, Calbark," says Yofiel as she steps through with the others, not having to project as much as when she was speaking to him while he was up on the wall.

She, too, looks around as they enter the area within the gates.

============
Perception: 20

Kaze (JonS) HP 42/45 AC 19/Touch & Flat Footed AC 14/ CMD: 18/ CMB: 6/ Grapple: 7 
Thursday September 5th, 2024 5:39:13 PM
Kaze watches as the thorn bushes make a tunnel, not really to anyone, he says, "That's a cool trick, would come in handy at some point if we are building defenses like these."

Colt Human Rogue (Tim) AC 18 T 14 FF 14 HP 50/50 CMD 20  d20+8=12 ;
Thursday September 5th, 2024 7:01:59 PM
Will all the buildings have living walls inside?

Colt gives Calbark a little wave and strolls to the travois. Last of the party to enter, he drags the sledge through the hedge-gate and into the interior, where he starts looking around.

[ooc] Perception roll 12. [/ooc]

Siolo (Joe) - AC 15/13/13 ; HP 28/28 , NL 0 
Thursday September 5th, 2024 9:55:48 PM
"Or," Siolo adds right after Yofiel's response to Ezekiel, "consider the implications of your words before speaking them. Bluster is rarely a prized quality in any culture."

He then gives Calbark a smile and nod as he proceeds inside. "Thank you for your generosity and hospitality."

The Outpost - DM Jess- Maps and documents  
Friday September 6th, 2024 9:48:54 AM
The heroes walk through the passage through the vegetation, which is about 10 feet thick, before moving into the compound of the outpost. Kaze comments on the defensive possibilities of the vegetation. Colt wonders what they will find inside, but, like Einar he stays quiet as they enter the outpost. Ezekiel is unsure how Calbark knew he was a storm sorcerer. Siolo chides him gently for his bluster. He and Yofiel thank Calbark.

The complex is small, only five single-story buildings. It has a look of a place that was never meant to be permanent. Most of the buildings have the appearance of being--at least in part--grown, rather than built.

A shallow stream--feed from a waterfall--winds its way through the outpost, and there is a small footbridge crossing it about 5 feet from the wall.

Toward the center of the compound is a very large tree which towers over the other buildings. Indigenous plants have been planted throughout the compound. Although their arrangement is somewhat haphazard, there is evidence that they are well tended.

You see Calbark emerge from building B, carrying a flat brown bread and a pot of honey. He breaks off a piece of bread for himself and then passes the loaf to the heroes. He drizzles some honey over top and then takes a bite.

“Claim your rite as guests and the promise that no harm shall come to you here unless you do harm yourselves,” he says solemnly. “Then we shall talk.”

OOC I added a map of the compound to the second slide. Keep in mind that this is meant to be an artistic rendering of the space, but it should give you a good idea of the general layout and the overall vibe.


Ezekiel (BrianW) - AC 17/13/14; HP 38/38 
Friday September 6th, 2024 10:49:15 AM
"I DO have a way with words," says Ezekiel proudly to Yofiel.

----

To Calbark, he says "That is good to know. I already have two arms so I would not one to have another come to me. I wouldn't know where to put it."

Ezekiel takes a piece of bread and eats it before passing the loaf along.

Yofiel (Kim McCoy), female elf bard 5th AC 16/16/14 HP: 33/33 
Friday September 6th, 2024 11:17:56 AM

"What a lovely gesture," Yofiel says as Calbark explains the sharing of the bread and honey.

"Ezekiel, he said no 'harm' will come to you. 'Harm' as in damage, injury. Not 'arm' as in what you have attached to each shoulder. I think you need some healing in your ears, friend."

As the bread is passed, she tears off a piece, passes the loaf on to the next person, drizzles honey upon the piece, takes it in her mouth, closes her eyes, and eats.

Ezekiel (BrianW) - AC 17/13/14; HP 38/38 
Friday September 6th, 2024 2:59:10 PM
"Oh, I suppose that makes more sense," says Ezekiel.

Kaze (JonS) HP 42/45 AC 19/Touch & Flat Footed AC 14/ CMD: 18/ CMB: 6/ Grapple: 7 
Friday September 6th, 2024 10:33:22 PM
Kaze gets a sobering look on his face, "Many things can be said of meeting new people. Breaking bread with them is one way to begin the conversation." He will rip off some bread, drizzle it with honey, make sure he doesn't get any honey on his paws/hands and nods at Calbark

Colt Human Rogue (Tim) AC 18 T 14 FF 14 HP 50/50 CMD 20 
Saturday September 7th, 2024 7:36:01 AM
Colt accepts the bread and honey with Grateful nod and smile. He takes a large chunk if the remaining bread and a liberal swipe of honey.

"It's good. Thank you very much."

His eyes track the remaining bread and honey as it passes from hand to hand.

Dapple [AC 18; HP 28/28] (Kathy) 
Saturday September 7th, 2024 1:30:38 PM
Dapple's eyes are wide as she steps into the compound. "Oh, this is so nice!" she says.

She never turns down food, so she breaks off a small piece of the bread and tops it with a dab of honey.

Yofiel (Kim McCoy), female elf bard 5th AC 16/16/14 HP: 33/33 
Sunday September 8th, 2024 2:25:09 AM

"All right, Einar and Siolo. Your turn," says Yofiel.

Colt Human Rogue (Tim) AC 18 T 14 FF 14 HP 50/50 CMD 20 
Sunday September 8th, 2024 12:25:21 PM
" I'll take it if you don't want it."

Einar (StevenVdB) - HP68/68 - AC19/13/16 - CMD 21 
Sunday September 8th, 2024 2:12:41 PM
Einar gladly takes the bread and breaks a piece with a lot of crust. Some butter would be lovely but this wild honey too smells so delicious that even without butter if will be very tasty.

"Thank you Sir" he says holding up his bread an honey to Calbark.

By the time his bread if gone there's some left over honey in his unkempt beard but that doesn't bother EInar much.

Siolo (Joe) - AC 15/13/13 ; HP 28/28 , NL 0 
Monday September 9th, 2024 6:13:09 AM
Siolo partakes in the bread and honey as well. Though his attention is focused on the structure of this little hamlet. It seems likely that druids were involved in its construction. So, what Circle? Where were they?

The Outpost - DM Jess- Maps and documents  
Monday September 9th, 2024 8:34:59 AM
Calbark watches the interaction between Ezekiel and Yofiel with a look of consternation, but does not say anything.

The heroes also have a good chance to look around. Siolo believes that druids must have been involved in the construction of the outpost; he wonders more about them. Dapple comments on the beauty of the space.

The party eats the bread and honey, Einar more messily than others-- Colt looks for seconds.

In response to Yofiel and Kaze’s comments, Calbark says, “We keep the old customs here. There is meaning and power in them--even if many have forgotten.”

“Now, you mentioned two names that I know well. Master Waelius resides here,” he gestures toward a moss-covered wooden cottage (building C). “Though he's been away for a few months. Such ventures are not uncommon for him. Usually comes back with an armload of books and dives back into his studies. And his bellyaching. Afraid that I can tell you nothing of his current location.”

“Also have the misfortune of being acquainted with Maya. She, too, made her home here for some time. But a few years ago, she was exiled. Her convictions--her work--grew too extreme. What she’s attempting…it’s not natural, not right, and not what we stand for here. So she was asked and then forced to leave. Her apprentice--a good enough lad who had no wish to follow her on the perverted path she’s on--stayed on for a while longer, though he struck out on his own a few months back. Haven’t seen hide or hair of him for a week or two. A bit of a fool for leaving--this isn't the sort of place to wander alone--but I still hope he’s alright out there.”

Siolo (Joe) - AC 15/13/13 ; HP 28/28 , NL 0 
Monday September 9th, 2024 9:47:37 AM
"What was Maya working on here?" Siolo asks, leaning in a little closer unintentionally. "Is there anything that remains of her work?"

Ezekiel (BrianW) - AC 17/13/14; HP 38/38 
Monday September 9th, 2024 1:05:19 PM
"What was is exactly about Maya's work did you find too extreme?" asks Ezekiel. "Also where was the last place you saw this Master...Walrus was it?"

Dapple [AC 18; HP 28/28] (Kathy) 
Monday September 9th, 2024 1:24:22 PM
"This apprentice," Dapple says. "What's his name? And do you have any idea which direction he was heading when you last saw him?"

Kaze (JonS) HP 42/45 AC 19/Touch & Flat Footed AC 14/ CMD: 18/ CMB: 6/ Grapple: 7 
Monday September 9th, 2024 3:50:01 PM
Kaze will remain silent as his friends flood Calbark with questions. Should Calbark look in his direction, Kaze will give him a "I'm sorry" look

Yofiel (Kim McCoy), female elf bard 5th AC 16/16/14 HP: 33/33 
Monday September 9th, 2024 6:27:47 PM

"Calbark, Ezekiel is a sailor, and also skilled at sorcery," Yofiel tells this guardian of the outpost. "However, we fear there may have been a collision between the swinging boom of the sail and his noggin at one point. Or the like. Occasionally he has wonderful flashes of insight, even wisdom. On other occasions, his counsel may be less than seaworthy. So we, his friends, sift through the flotsam and jetsam, and from time to time discover an object or two worthy of reclamation that can be put to good use. Please take his questions and perspectives for what they are worth. He is a worthy friend. We love him. We give his words the sifting that is needed, we cherish the best, and set aside the, uh, less than best. I pray you -- take no offense, for, to the best of my understanding, he intends none."

She pats Ezekiel's hand, and says, "The wizard's name is Waelius. Waelius. Not Walrus, my friend. Waelius."

The bard then waits for another to interject, then adds, "We ourselves find her twisting of nature to be extreme. Though I pray the possibility of repentance be found within her, our thought is that she must be countered, she must be stopped. We just as of yet do not know the best means to do so."

Colt Human Rogue (Tim) AC 18 T 14 FF 14 HP 50/50 CMD 20 
Monday September 9th, 2024 7:01:40 PM
This could go on for a while. "Mind if I look around?' Colt asks Calbark.

If given permission, he'll wander around the compound, and talk to anyone who's outside. He won't go into buildings.

If not given permission, he stays to listen with what grace he can muster.

Einar (StevenVdB) - HP68/68 - AC19/13/16 - CMD 21 
Tuesday September 10th, 2024 5:32:52 AM
Einar does not interfere in the talking... he's not good at it anyhow. So he looks around and shifts from one foot to the other.

The Outpost - DM Jess- Maps and documents  
Tuesday September 10th, 2024 8:51:49 AM
Calbark patiently answers the heroes’ questions, though he does appear grateful for Kaze’s look of sympathy.

He says to Colt, “You can look around, but don’t go too far. We might have broken bread, but you’re still strangers here.” The air in the compound--hot and humid as the rest of the jungle--has a heady floral scent, likely from the flowering plants being grown here. You also get a better look at the stream, noting that it is only a foot or two deep, though it is quite wide in some places.

“Last place I saw Master Waelius," he replies to Ezekiel, “was right here. He was here one second, gone the next. But that’s his way. Magic, you know. And before you ask, I don’t have an inkling where he was headed. He didn’t much care to share that sort of information with, well, anybody.

“When Maya first came to us, she identified herself as a druid. Wasn’t until later that we learned that she was Circle of the Silver Birch. Kept that hidden from us. She said she wanted to study the dinosaurs of the area. To protect them. Keep them safe from those who destroy them. And at first, that’s what she did. Wasn’t until later that her work started to creep toward not preserving, but what she called ‘enhancing’ the creatures. Combining different species. Making them faster, smarter, more deadly. Argued that it was necessary to protect them. But what she was doing… it wasn’t right. An affront to the natural order.” He looks to Yofiel, “A twisting of it, as you say. From the sound of it, you’ve had some run-ins with her creatures, afraid I can’t give you more information than that. Didn’t work with her directly and what she didn’t take with her was destroyed lest it should fall into the wrong hands.

“Maya’s apprentice is called Jothan. Jothan Wilamon. Had more ideals than sense, if you ask me. He set out determined to do something about the hunters that have been causing problems around these parts. Nasty group of mercenaries. I told him he was a fool for going out there on his own. Not much one man could do against an entire camp, but he insisted someone had to do something.” He looks down, his features creased into a frown. “Don’t like to think it, but the fact is that he’s like as not gotten himself killed.”

Ezekiel (BrianW) - AC 17/13/14; HP 38/38 
Tuesday September 10th, 2024 10:00:33 AM
To Yofiel, "Wait say them again, they sound the same to me."

"Oh, is he a druid too? Maybe he does that tree thing."

"What is the Circle fof the Silver Birch?"

Colt Human Rogue (Tim) AC 18 T 14 FF 14 HP 50/50 CMD 20 
Tuesday September 10th, 2024 1:00:06 PM
This is a nice place, Colt muses while he walks around. He bends down at the water's edge and wets the square of cloth that serves him as bandana, rag, and handkerchief. He wets the rag and wipes his face.

Foggy meanwhile begins lapping up the water.

Dapple [AC 18; HP 28/28] (Kathy) 
Tuesday September 10th, 2024 1:45:38 PM
"Can you tell us more about these hunters?" Dapple asks.

Yofiel (Kim McCoy), female elf bard 5th AC 16/16/14 HP: 33/33 
Tuesday September 10th, 2024 5:06:12 PM

"We came upon the remains of some men who had been attacked by dinosaurs. It looked like the creatures dragged them next to a fallen rubber tree not too far off trail. Probably died a few weeks ago, at least. A few weapons, torn clothing, a brown cloak we found. They lie a few hours back the way we came. We lacked shovels to give them a decent burial, but we'd like to take care of that at some point," Yofiel says. She further describes the remains, the features she was able to discern, to see if Calbark might have any familiarity with the slain group.

Kaze (JonS) HP 42/45 AC 19/Touch & Flat Footed AC 14/ CMD: 18/ CMB: 6/ Grapple: 7 
Tuesday September 10th, 2024 8:13:46 PM
Kaze will join Colt in washing his hands and face. Patches will join Foggy and drink some fresh water

Siolo (Joe) - AC 15/13/13 ; HP 28/28 , NL 0 
Tuesday September 10th, 2024 11:13:37 PM
Siolo sighs and lowers his head in disappointment. "Druids of this Circle are dedicated to breeding.
They focus on growing and enhancing monsters. And, by growing, I mean, twisting," he says, trailing off at the end.

Einar (StevenVdB) - HP68/68 - AC19/13/16 - CMD 21 
Wednesday September 11th, 2024 5:02:02 AM
Einar listens to everyone talking. There's very little for him to interfere with or little things he can add. Seeing how this place is well guarded it makes sense they did not let him enter when he previously visited the place. No need to talk about this at the moment.

The barbarian is not use during the talk but perhaps the outpost can use some muscle for repairs or other stuff?

"Sir... while you talk... is there something I can do to help? Some repairs perhaps? "

The Outpost - DM Jess- Maps and documents  
Wednesday September 11th, 2024 8:34:55 AM
Colt, Kaze, and the doggies wander over to the stream. They wash their hands and faces. The water is surprisingly crisp given the humid heat of the air around you.

“Master Waelius is not a druid. He’s a wizard. Mighty powerful one at that. From what I understand, he gets a notion of where he wants to go and his magic takes him there. Anywhere in the world he fancies.” DC 15 Arcana check Highlight to display spoiler: {you surmise that he is likely casting greater teleport.}

He nods as Siolo answers Ezekiel’s question about the Circle of the Silver Birch. “Right you are. Not something she was keen to advertise, but that she couldn’t keep hidden.”

“The Hunters established themselves in this area a while back. Capturing dinosaurs. Hard to tell exactly what they’re up to, but I’ve heard tell of some awful sounds coming from that camp of theirs.

Calbark furrows his brow as Yofiel speaks, shaking his head. “Don’t know anyone of that description. They weren’t ours.”

To Einar, Calbark replies, “Truly appreciate the offer, but we’re in no need of repairs at the moment. Nature has a way of healing herself.”

Just as he finishes speaking, a pretty young female elf approaches the group. She has dark brown skin, black hair, and green eyes. “You didn’t tell me we had visitors, Calbark,” her voice lilting on his name. “I assume the rather lost-looking male wandering outside the gate is a part of your group?” she says to the party.


Ezekiel (BrianW) - AC 17/13/14; HP 38/38  d20+11=14 ;
Wednesday September 11th, 2024 10:21:30 AM
Know Arcana: 14.

"So...that's a no on the tree thing then I suppose."

"I don't think Maya was just breeding or even crossbreeding dinos. Some of them were part plant, I don't believe plants can breed with dinos. Right Siolo?"

Dapple [AC 18; HP 28/28] (Kathy) 
Wednesday September 11th, 2024 12:08:02 PM
Dapple looks around. "No, I think we're all accounted for," she says.

Yofiel (Kim McCoy), female elf bard 5th AC 16/16/14 HP: 33/33 
Wednesday September 11th, 2024 2:16:05 PM

Yofiel nods toward the dark-haired elf woman. "As Dapple indicates, we weren't expecting anyone, no. If you'd like and would allow, I can join you or Calbark and take a look from the wall to see if it happens to be someone we know. Some members of our group have gone elsewhere from time to time, and one may perhaps be returning."

Giving her and Calbark a chance to consider that option, she then adds, "I am Yofiel, most recently of Cloudhaven. These are my friends and companions - Dapple, Ezekiel, Siolo, Colt, Kaze, and Einar."

Colt Human Rogue (Tim) AC 18 T 14 FF 14 HP 50/50 CMD 20 
Wednesday September 11th, 2024 5:02:57 PM
Noticing the new arrival, Colt looks at Kaze and gives a quick head tip in her direction. Then he gets up and sidles back to the main discussion.

Foggy, doesn't follow the young man. Instead he pees on a low shubbery nearby, and then circles Patches, sniffing.

Kaze (JonS) HP 42/45 AC 19/Touch & Flat Footed AC 14/ CMD: 18/ CMB: 6/ Grapple: 7 
Wednesday September 11th, 2024 7:46:55 PM
Kaze will nod back at Colt and move closer to the conversation, "Another person outside ... we never detected anyone following us, how odd."

The Outpost - DM Jess- Maps and documents  
Thursday September 12th, 2024 9:23:18 AM
Calbark frowns as Ezekiel tells him about the plants. He looks angry, though, you sense, not at you. “That’s vile. An affront to the natural order.” He pauses for a moment. “But does, perhaps, explain why she was interested in the work we’ve been doing here…”

He looks alarmed at the mention of more visitors--even more so at the fact that the newcomer is not associated with the party. He quickly makes his way up a ladder to the top of the wall. The elf follows him, chattering happily to Yofiel, the words tumbling out of her. “This is really quite exciting. Folks rarely find their way here. And it’s even rarer for Calbark to actually let them inside. It can get terribly lonely here. I’m Gwenestri, by the way.”

When Yofiel and whoever else follows, you see an elvish man looking at a piece of parchment. He is tan with long blond hair. He’s slightly above average in height, with a wiry build. His brow furrows as he looks around at his surroundings and then back at the parchment.


Einar (StevenVdB) - HP68/68 - AC19/13/16 - CMD 21 
Thursday September 12th, 2024 10:28:04 AM
Einar feels like the proverbial 5th wheel but he wasn't cut out for all this talking anyhow.
He smiles and nods when Einar introduces him to Gwenestri. " Greetings M'Lady"


Ezekiel (BrianW) - AC 17/13/14; HP 38/38 
Thursday September 12th, 2024 10:40:36 AM
"What work are you doing here that Maya was interested in?"

Yofiel (Kim McCoy), female elf bard 5th AC 16/16/14 HP: 33/33  d20+11=21 ; d20+14=29 ;
Thursday September 12th, 2024 1:43:06 PM

"Well met, Gwenestri," Yofiel replies with a warm smile, enjoying the woman's ebullience.

Once up on the wall, after first moving well aside from the ladder to allow room for any others who also wish to ascend, she looks down at the tanned elf to see if he looks familiar to her. She notes his puzzlement. If she does recognize him, she says his name in a questioning tone. If she does not, she shrugs her shoulders to indicate she does not recognize him, and waits for either the stranger or for Calbark to speak first.

She also tries to get a glimpse of what is on the parchment that he holds.
===========
Sense motive: 21 - try to get a read on the fellow
Perception: 29 - try to discern what is on the parchment

Colt Human Rogue (Tim) AC 18 T 14 FF 14 HP 50/50 CMD 20 
Thursday September 12th, 2024 6:09:33 PM
"Hey, Gwenestri, I'm Colt. " The young man had come up behind her.

He follows everyone up the ladder, because he wants to see too.

Lots of elves around here.

Kaze (JonS) HP 42/45 AC 19/Touch & Flat Footed AC 14/ CMD: 18/ CMB: 6/ Grapple: 7 
Thursday September 12th, 2024 7:09:02 PM
Kaze sigh's at all the "Tall" people around him, and moves up to the wall to see what the commotion is about somebody outside the fort, homebase, shelter, he's not sure what it is called.

Dapple [AC 18; HP 28/28] (Kathy) 
Thursday September 12th, 2024 8:12:22 PM
"HI Gwenestri, I'm Dapple," says Dapple. A stranger at the gate is not really any of her business, but she is curious, so she loiters.

Falkwyn (Steven P) HP 37/37; AC 16/15/16; CMD 22; Male Elf Ranger 3/Wiz 2; Perception +8  d20+8=10 ;
Thursday September 12th, 2024 8:39:04 PM
It had been a really long day, and it shows, even to a casual observer.

Falkwyn bears smudges of dirt, grime, and vegetation across his clothing and equipment, along with similar marks on his right cheek and chin. His long hair, usually pulled back into a tidy ponytail or braid shows signs of failing and giving up due to the stress of the hours spent in the humid jungle environment.
His clothing is of quality make, but obviously well used, made up of various leathers and other practical garments of gray, green, and brown, common to many woodsmen to the north.

The elven explorer gives a small sigh of frustration and weariness, looking back down at the rough parchment he carries. Again he shrugs, and glances around, muttering to himself. "...the shallow stream runs over there, fed by the waterfall...but no...that can't be right, because the orientation is wrong due to the..."

(Perception Roll: d20+8=10)

Momentarily unaware of his growing audience, Falkwyn looks up again, squinting at some far-off feature of the jungle nearby...or perhaps it was less a feature and simply more overgrown vines and trees...

Finally, the Elf turns back towards the gate, carefully rolling up his parchment, obviously admitting defeat on some level and moving towards the structure. To anyone looking closely enough, it seems obvious that the document appears to be a map of some kind.

Looking upward, and showing a momentary bit of surprise from which he quickly tries to recover, the elf calls out, "Hail the Outpost! Hello up there! Good day. Could one of you fine folks answer a quick question for me?" There's a small pause, as much for effect as for a breath, then he smiles, "Where the bloody hell AM I?"

Siolo (Joe) - AC 15/13/13 ; HP 28/28 , NL 0 
Thursday September 12th, 2024 9:03:24 PM
Siolo gets up in preparation for a confrontation, but stays back. He is willing to come to the aid of the outpost, but doesn't want to step on toes. Plus, Lady Yofiel is a better greeter.

Yofiel (Kim McCoy), female elf bard 5th AC 16/16/14 HP: 33/33 
Friday September 13th, 2024 1:30:53 AM

Yofiel looks to Calbark. This is his place, and not hers. But if she can catch his eye, she signals to him. Stepping slightly back so she cannot be seen by the fellow down below, then with open right hand before her and an open expression on her face, she moves her elbow forward and fingertips mouthward until the palm tilts down, touches her mouth with her fingertips, then, palm up, moves the hand toward where the traveler stands, and places her left hand on her chest, eyebrows raised, so as to ask the leader, 'May I speak to him?'

If Calbark affirms her request, she leans forward to be seen from below, and asks "Where is it you are trying to be, traveler? What, or whom, do you seek?" Then she nods toward Calbark, so he can pick up from there.

If Calbark gives a negative shake of the head to her pantomimed query, Yofiel simply waits for him to handle it.

Einar (StevenVdB) - HP68/68 - AC19/13/16 - CMD 21 
Friday September 13th, 2024 3:47:09 AM
Einar's guessing the outpost needs neither help on repairs nor help to defend itself...
None the less he offers Calbark his blade in case the commander deems it necessary.

Colt Human Rogue (Tim) AC 18 T 14 FF 14 HP 50/50 CMD 20 
Friday September 13th, 2024 7:49:47 AM
Colt frowns. How'd this stranger get a map to the outpost? Cloudhaven was practically next door as things went in the jungle, but nobody except Einar knew how to get here. And why did the Walrus Mage hang out here? He begins to think there's more to the outpost than five buildings, a cool running creek, and a really nice hedge.

The Outpost - DM Jess- Maps and documents  
Friday September 13th, 2024 9:11:21 AM
Calbark responds to Ezekiel by saying that “There are few places in the world that remain as untouched and untamed as the lands here. The flora is different from anywhere else in Wold and allows for some unique arcane applications. That’s what we’re researching here. How to work with Nature and harness some of its power. If Maya has done as you claim, it seems that she was also interested in harnessing the plant life here--though for far more nefarious purposes”

Gwenestri warmly greets Yofiel, Einar, Dapple,” and Colt, smiling and shaking their hands--regardless of whether or not a hand was offered. “Gosh, it’s just so nice to have some new people to talk to. Not that Calbark isn’t great. Don’t you think he’s great? But it’s been awful lonely lately with just him and Aunt Selara around.” She continues chattering as you climb up the ladder.

Siolo quietly prepares for a confrontation.

The heroes gather atop the wall. Calbark nods to Yofiel to speak with the slightly-rumpled traveler, who seems to be struggling over a map. Noticing the appearance of the others atop the wall, Falkwyn calls out, asking where he is. Yofiel replies by asking him what or who he is looking for.


Ezekiel (BrianW) - AC 17/13/14; HP 38/38 
Friday September 13th, 2024 3:23:44 PM
"So she is feeding the dinos magic plants?" asks Ezekiel. "When I eat magic plants I usually get hungry and a bit paranoid. That might explain why the dinos are acting so aggressively!"

Dapple [AC 18; HP 28/28] (Kathy) 
Friday September 13th, 2024 4:58:31 PM
Dapple does not climb a ladder. "Who's Aunt Selara?" she asks Gwenestri.

Colt Human Rogue (Tim) AC 18 T 14 FF 14 HP 50/50 CMD 20 
Friday September 13th, 2024 9:15:13 PM
"He couldn't have arrived in Cloudhaven before we left. We would have known. " Colt murmurs to himself. "So he must have run down the trail after us."

Kaze (JonS) HP 42/45 AC 19/Touch & Flat Footed AC 14/ CMD: 18/ CMB: 6/ Grapple: 7 
Friday September 13th, 2024 10:38:01 PM
Kaze, knowing how long the party spent in Cloudhaven shakes his head, more to himself than anyone else, this guy doesn't make sense, how the heck can he be here, when he wasn't in Cloudhavne before the group left ... ah what the hell, he'll let the tall people handle this ... Kaze wanders back down the ladder in search of more bread and honey, if he can find any

Falkwyn (Steven P) HP 37/37; AC 16/15/16; CMD 22; Male Elf Ranger 3/Wiz 2; Perception +8 
Sunday September 15th, 2024 10:49:25 AM
The elven wanderer takes in the assembled group, and quickly decides that they're not guardsmen. Obvious enough, or is it? Interesting places often make for strange bedfellows.

"To be completely honest, I'm not sure where exactly I'm supposed to be, much less where exactly I am, at the moment. I can simply relay that I was until recently living in Culverwood, but arrived in Cthonia several days ago... I believe... and have since wandered about and gotten myself quite turned around. Possibly more than once."

The elf sighs, "It is quite remarkable exactly HOW different a forest is from a jungle. I had believed my skill and experience with the former would immediately translate to the latter. This, however, has not proven to be the case. I was looking for Cloudhaven, but cannot find it."

Another pause, and then he adds, "Oh. My manners. I am Falkwyn Valenthorn, Ranger and Explorer... at your service."
=========
[Edit by Kim with Steven P's permission]

Yofiel (Kim McCoy), female elf bard 5th AC 16/16/14 HP: 33/33 
Sunday September 15th, 2024 12:04:56 PM
The brown-eyed redhead female elf displays an amused smile down at the wandering ranger below.

"Well, you have found some folks from Cloudhaven here, but this is a different outpost than the one you seek.

"I, too, hail from The Culverwood - Emerald City, to be precise. I am Yofiel. Well met, I trust, Falkwyn Valenthorn."

Siolo (Joe) - AC 15/13/13 ; HP 28/28 , NL 0 
Sunday September 15th, 2024 10:25:40 PM
Siolo waits to see how the interaction resolves. In his mind he plans a shift into a deinonychus and leaping onto enemies on the other side of the wall. He carefully envisions the plan as he crouches slightly.

Einar (StevenVdB) - HP68/68 - AC19/13/16 - CMD 21 
Monday September 16th, 2024 4:31:29 AM
Hearing of a new arrival Einar is of course intrigued to see who it is.
More pointy ears... looks like this jungle attracts pointy ears and tree huggers.

Assuming the outpost won't open it's 'doors' quickly for this new commer Einar waits with the rest.
If he brings trouble Einar stands ready.

Colt Human Rogue (Tim) AC 18 T 14 FF 14 HP 50/50 CMD 20 
Monday September 16th, 2024 7:50:34 AM
"Hmmph. On second look, he seems harmless enough. Why are we always so suspicious?"

The Outpost - DM Jess- Maps and documents  
Monday September 16th, 2024 9:44:38 AM
“Sounds like she’s doing a fair more than just feeding them,” Calbark replies darkly to Ezekiel.

“Aunt Selara? She’s my aunt,” Gwenestri explains to Dapple. “Well, technically my great-great-great aunt. I told Mother and Father that I wished to leave home and go on adventures. They brought me here, which, truth be told, is a little more gardening and a little less actual, you know, adventure than I had in mind. But it hasn’t been all bad,” the trails off, her eye flitting to Calbark.

Falkwyn explains that he arrived in Cthonia several days ago. He has been looking for Cloudhaven but has gotten very lost.

Yofiel continues her conversation with him, informing him that the heroes are from Cloudhaven, but that he hasn’t found that location yet.

Kaze, Colt, Siolo, and Einar watch the exchange, Colt putting in a vote of confidence for the stranger.

Ezekiel (BrianW) - AC 17/13/14; HP 38/38 
Monday September 16th, 2024 10:48:48 AM
"Greatings, Falcon, was it?" says Ezekiel. "Don't worry about it, I usually don't know where I am either.."

Dapple [AC 18; HP 28/28] (Kathy) 
Monday September 16th, 2024 11:26:40 AM
Dapple listens to the conversation, but since she'd have to climb a ladder to participate, she stays where she is and waits patiantly. Well, somewhat patiently.

[OOC: Falkwyn is still outside the gate, correct?]

Falkwyn (Steven P) HP 37/37; AC 16/15/16; CMD 22; Male Elf Ranger 3/Wiz 2; Perception +8 
Monday September 16th, 2024 2:12:02 PM
"Well met indeed, Lady Yofiel. And I might add that it is quite remarkable to find another former resident of The Culverwood all the way out here." the ranger chuckles. "Wherever HERE is."

Hearing Ezekiel's comment the elf responds' "Er...Falkwyn. Close enough, I suppose. And sadly, it is rather humbling to one such as myself, usually so confident in a forested enviroment. I truly, and quite arrogantly it seems, thought this jungle setting would be much the same as I am used to..."

Another pause while Falkwyn sighs, "So...if this is indeed not Cloudhaven...then where exactly am I? T'would seem my map is much more of a rough draft than actual tool to be used to guide my travel."

[OOC: Yes, Outside the gate and looking up at those who are communicating with him]

Colt Human Rogue (Tim) AC 18 T 14 FF 14 HP 50/50 CMD 20 
Monday September 16th, 2024 3:17:40 PM
"Where'd you get the map?" Colt's curiousity gets the better of him.

Falkwyn (Steven P) HP 37/37; AC 16/15/16; CMD 22; Male Elf Ranger 3/Wiz 2; Perception +8 
Monday September 16th, 2024 3:32:29 PM
Falkwyn blinks as if suddenly realizing he may have said too much without intending to do so. Bare emotion crosses his face for a full second, and then he blinks again, regaining control of his expression.

"Er. Um that is...I should say...er...well, damn." The elf exhales loudly and then says, "My mentor...he...uh...Look, could I just come in and we could discuss this over mead or wine, or whatever you might have? I'd simply rather not shout back and forth like this while discussing the treasure map that I am having an embarrasingly difficult time following...."

Colt Human Rogue (Tim) AC 18 T 14 FF 14 HP 50/50 CMD 20 
Monday September 16th, 2024 6:22:01 PM
"That's Calbark's call. He's the chief here."

Kaze (JonS) HP 42/45 AC 19/Touch & Flat Footed AC 14/ CMD: 18/ CMB: 6/ Grapple: 7 
Monday September 16th, 2024 9:58:21 PM
Once the word, "Map" comes up, Kaze will about face and head to the gate area. That the stranger had a map to the region was interesting, and a little concerning

Yofiel (Kim McCoy), female elf bard 5th AC 16/16/14 HP: 33/33 
Monday September 16th, 2024 11:32:35 PM

"Where 'here' is? I'd guess that Emerald City is around a million steps west of where we are standing right now," Yofiel answers her fellow citizen of The Culverwood. "And maybe about the same number of steps northeast from Plateau City, going by land and hugging the coast. Almost double that for Kaze or Dapple."

She steps back momentarily and whispers to the overseer, "I think he is fine, Lord Calbark. If not, we can slow him down quickly. His accent is of the Culverwood. Are you all right with opening to him?"

If Calbark indicates agreement, she steps back. "Falkwyn Valenthorn, do you bear the insignia of the WLA - the Woldian League of Adventurers?" If he does, that satisfies her fully, and she then displays her insignia. If not, she says, "We are inclined to open the gate, if you will give your word of honor to be peaceable toward all who rightly dwell within these thorny walls."

If Calbark does not indicate agreement, she holds her hands out in acceptance, nods toward him to indicate she will follow his lead.

Einar (StevenVdB) - HP68/68 - AC19/13/16 - CMD 21 
Tuesday September 17th, 2024 4:05:28 AM
Einar stands next to Dapple as he didn't climb the ladder either. He overhears the discussion and mumbles to Dapple : "He very eager to get inside, no? Who his mentor to send him here?!

The Outpost - DM Jess- Maps and documents  
Tuesday September 17th, 2024 8:57:56 AM
Ezekiel greets Falkwyn --or Falcon as he calls him--and assures him that he also doesn’t often know where he is most of the time.

Dapple back and listens.

Falkwyn greets Yofiel and gently corrects Ezekiel’s pronunciation.

Colt asks Falkwyn where he got the map from. Falkwyn explains that it was given to him by his mentor and asks for entry into the outpost. Kaze is intrigued--and a bit concerned--by the mention of a map. Einar speaks with Dapple, questioning the new comer’s motives.

Colt directs Falkwyn’s entreaty for entry to Calbark. Yofiel also defers; she asks Falkwyn if he is a member of the WLA.

“I ain’t the chief. Nor am I any sort of lord,” he says under his breath, though Yofiel standing beside him can hear just fine.

“Oh stop being such a grump and let him in, Calbark” Gwenestri calls out.

Calbark scowls, but says “Fine. He may enter. So long as you and your group take responsibility for him. If he starts any trouble, it will be your responsibility to put an end to it.”


Yofiel (Kim McCoy), female elf bard 5th AC 16/16/14 HP: 33/33 
Tuesday September 17th, 2024 11:47:20 AM

"Fine, we concur," responds Yofiel, accepting responsibility. "Thank you, Calbark. Perhaps not a chief nor a lord, but you are a guardian."

"Falkwyn, you may enter... as soon as we get this gate open!"

Dapple [AC 18; HP 28/28] (Kathy) 
Tuesday September 17th, 2024 2:39:59 PM
"If he's lost, we really ought to help him," says Dapple. She moves away from the gate so it can be opened.

Falkwyn (Steven P) HP 37/37; AC 16/15/16; CMD 22; Male Elf Ranger 3/Wiz 2; Perception +8 
Tuesday September 17th, 2024 4:28:20 PM
As the gate situation is handled, Falkwyn calls up to Yofiel, "Sadly I have never yet had the occasion to encounter members of the League, let alone consider joining their cause. That said, I have heard nothing in my travels thus far that would dissuade me from possibly doing so."

The elf pauses, then stands straight, setting his shoulders back and calls out, "You have my word of honor that I shall conduct myself in a forthright and peaceful manner, acting otherwise only to protect myself from mortal harm. My purpose here is one of friendship and exploration."

Falkwyn then adds an oath of honor in elvish, "Sal say bren ent it nha desha." I say this and it is so.

Kaze (JonS) HP 42/45 AC 19/Touch & Flat Footed AC 14/ CMD: 18/ CMB: 6/ Grapple: 7 
Tuesday September 17th, 2024 4:30:24 PM
Kaze is interested in what the newcomer looks like, primarily to make sure this isn't some trick of Maya ... and secondly to find out where he got his map

Siolo (Joe) - AC 15/13/13 ; HP 28/28 , NL 0 
Tuesday September 17th, 2024 4:57:08 PM
Siolo steps toward the gate and draws his scimitar.

When the gate opens, Falkwyn sees a half-elf in his early twenties with firey red hair. He is bedecked in a set of well crafted animal hide armor and wields a scimitar that has seen little use. The young man looks at Falkwyn with a curious expression, but his body language does imply that he is ready for combat.

Colt Human Rogue (Tim) AC 18 T 14 FF 14 HP 50/50 CMD 20 
Tuesday September 17th, 2024 7:31:24 PM
Colt stays up on the wall watching the jungle until the hedge-gate has closed itself again. Then he turns his attention to the newcomer.

Should Falkwyn look behind himand up to the wall, he'll see a gangly, young man with deep brown eyes under a cascade of brown hair. Eyes and hair contrast sharply against his pale skin, but otherwise he is utterly unremarkable from a distance. He's wearing a somewhat oversized chain shirt, and metal cap with one of those awkward nose-bars. A shortsword and knife hang from his belt.

On the ground, a small grey dog, that might look like a miniature sheepdog if it's fur hadn't been hacked down to relieve the heat, tirelessly circles a much larger dog. Eventually it notices Falkwyn, and trots over to sniff the elf's leg.

Yofiel (Kim McCoy), female elf bard 5th AC 16/16/14 HP: 33/33  d20+8=21 ;
Wednesday September 18th, 2024 3:04:51 AM

Looking down from the ledge below the parapet, Yofiel notes Siolo with scimitar drawn. Performing some quick calculations involving angles, rates of descent, and available space, she takes a step, leaps up and away just a bit. Enough to clear the wall, activate feather fall at the proper moment, and gently land in the space right in front of her best druidic friend.

A serious expression on her face, Yofiel stage whispers, "Hi, Siolo. I'll serve as your shield if he decides to attack you. If he doesn't, you can sheathe your scimitar, right?" However, it's too hard for her to maintain a serious mien, and she smiles at her friend.

After a beat, she pivots to face the newcomer. "We also seek friendship where we can find it." She gives a curtsy to the newcomer.

==============
Acrobatics: 21 - I hope that is decent enough for the maneuver the bard is attempting

Einar (StevenVdB) - HP68/68 - AC19/13/16 - CMD 21 
Wednesday September 18th, 2024 7:23:02 AM
Einar stands firm as the Falkwyn enters the Outpost.

"Hmpf... and why did they not let me in earlier?!? ... must be the pointy ears. "

Falkwyn appears to be friendly and reasonable so Einar too sheaths his Falchion. Once he's up he reaches out for Falkwyn : "Well met Sir. I'm Einar... "

Einar's a scruffy looking man with a nice looking Falchion in his back. His unkempt beard - where still some remnants of honey and bread can be seen - and scruffy attire might explain why he wasn't allowed in the Outpost when he visited it last.

The Outpost - DM Jess- Maps and documents  
Wednesday September 18th, 2024 9:13:41 AM
Yofiel agrees to take responsibility for the newcomer and Calbark, seemingly satisfied, slips a hand into his pocket, murmuring a few words in a low voice, too quiet to hear. As they did when the heroes were first granted admittance to the outpost, the vines of the wall twist and turn away from each other, creating a passageway, only wide enough for Falkwyn to slip through.

Dapple agrees that they should help the lost man.

Falkwyn tells Yofiel that he is not associated with the WLA. He swears to conduct himself honorably while in the outpost.

Kaze is concerned that Falkwyn’s arrival might be part of Maya’s schemes.

Siolo draws his scimitar and steps forward. Yofiel does a pretty cool backflip and asks Siolo to sheave his sword, assuring Falkwyn that the heroes seek friendship.

Colt remains on the wall, watching the newcomer.

Einar introduces himself, but wonders why he was not allowed entry.

Falkwyn, as you enter the complex you note that the complex is small, consisting of only five single-story buildings, which have the appearance of being--at least in part--grown, rather than built. There is a shallow stream, fed by a waterfall, and plants throughout the compound. A great tree at the complex’s center towers over you. OCC: click on the “Maps and Documents” link in the DM header to see an artistic rendering of the space (slide 2).

“I’ll get more bread and honey,” Gwenestri chirps, darting toward building B. She returns with another loaf of flat brown bread. She pulls off a piece and slathers it with honey. “We break bread he in the tradition of guest rite. Calbark started it, but I think it’s a rather nice way of going about things. Don’t you?” She hands the bread and honey to Falkwyn.


Dapple [AC 18; HP 28/28] (Kathy) 
Wednesday September 18th, 2024 1:52:42 PM
"Hi Falkwyn," says a halfling woman in leather armor. "I'm Dapple." She's pretty much a standard-issue halfling: brown hair, brown eyes, and a mischievous smile.

Yofiel (Kim McCoy), female elf bard 5th AC 16/16/14 HP: 33/33 
Wednesday September 18th, 2024 4:31:57 PM

"Dapple is our favorite cleric," Yofiel says.

"Yes, Falkwyn, as Calbark told us a few minutes ago, 'Claim your rite as guests and the promise that no harm shall come to you here unless you do harm yourselves.' We all partook. Speaking of partaking - Colt, you look hungry, you growing fellow." She reaches into her haversack and takes out a bag. From it she withdraws a mango and a banana. "Choose one to keep you going for now." She also takes out a couple of finger-sized bits of dried meat. She offers one to Foggy and one to Patches. "Good doggies!"

After attending to Colt and the canines, she asks Gwenestri, "Do we all partake again, or is it enough for you and Falkwyn to do so?"

Siolo (Joe) - AC 15/13/13 ; HP 28/28 , NL 0 
Wednesday September 18th, 2024 5:15:58 PM
Siolo sheathes his sickle at Yofiel's request and looks back to Falkwyn with a pleasant smile. "Greetings, I am Siolo Sidhe of the Circle of Alder of the Floating City," he recites formally and then relaxes. "I did not intend to imply that you were unwelcome. Come, clearly you don't intend to attack this outpost or you would have done so."

Falkwyn (Steven P) HP 37/37; AC 16/15/16; CMD 22; Male Elf Ranger 3/Wiz 2; Perception +8 
Wednesday September 18th, 2024 6:24:10 PM
Intrigued by the manner in which the gate functioned, Falkwyn slowly and carefully makes his way inside the compound. At the first glimpse of drawn weapons, the elven archer lifts his hands in compliance, with equal care.

"Sal Alet (Lythari) aul Adon" he speaks in elven.I come in peace.

Falkwyn actually chuckles a bit when Gwenestri offers him bread and honey, and nods, "Indeed, it is a good way to handle such things. One should always respect the guest rites...especially when one is a guest."

The elven explorer nods a greeting to the dark haired cleric, "Hi, Dapple. Truly nice to meet you..." He pauses as Siolo speaks, then offers him a nod as well.

""Well met, all of you. Thank your for your kind and generous welcome."

Kaze (JonS) HP 42/45 AC 19/Touch & Flat Footed AC 14/ CMD: 18/ CMB: 6/ Grapple: 7 
Wednesday September 18th, 2024 11:14:32 PM
Kaze will smile and greet the newcomer, "I am Kaw-zay No Oh Ka, which stand for Walker of the Winds. Everyone just calls me Kaze (Cause-eh). The ritual of breaking bread together has existed since the histories began to to be recorded. During times of famine, to break bread with someone meant that you trusted them enough to take food from your family to provide to a welcomed guest." Kaze will wait and see if the bread and honey makes it back to him, around a mouthful he'll add, "It's quite tasty too."

Einar (StevenVdB) - HP68/68 - AC19/13/16 - CMD 21 
Thursday September 19th, 2024 5:16:15 AM
The prospect of more bread and honey sounds appealing but Einar doesn't want to be too bold to take yet another piece... of course he will not refuse if offered more...

When the right moment presents it self Einar will ask Gwenestri if a woman named Selene came by this Outpost.

The Outpost - DM Jess- Maps and documents  
Thursday September 19th, 2024 8:55:06 AM
Falkwyn passes through the wall of vines. Once on the interior of the compound, he meets the rest of the heroes, who introduce themselves to him.

“Generally, anyone who lives here who is present partakes,” Gwenestri says, passing the bread and honey to Calbark. “We don’t usually have guests, so I’m not exactly sure of the custom.” She gives Yofiel an apologetic smile.

“All who wish to partake may,” Calbark says, after eating his own piece of bread. He nods in approval at Kaze’s words, passing the food to him. “You speak wisely.” He turn his attention to Falkwyn. “Though it is shows considerably less good sense to travel this lands alone. Now that you are inside, it seems that you’d better explain exactly what you’re doing here. And what exactly that map is meant to lead you to.” Anyone who wishes to partake in more bread and honey does.

Gwenestri answers Einar’s question with a small, sad smile. “I’m sorry. I don’t know anyone by that name. Before your group and this other stranger arrived, you were the only person we saw for quite some time here.”


Ezekiel (BrianW) - AC 17/13/14; HP 38/38 
Thursday September 19th, 2024 9:24:30 AM
"Wait, didn't we do bread and honey thing already?" asks Ezekiel. "I mean, I won't say no to more food, but I thought we did that already."

Yofiel (Kim McCoy), female elf bard 5th AC 16/16/14 HP: 33/33 
Thursday September 19th, 2024 12:43:50 PM

"It is for Falkwyn we do it this time, Ezekiel." When the bread arrives, she takes off a small piece for herself and tears off another piece for the sorcerer. She drizzles honey on both pieces and hands him one, then passes the loaf on to the next person.

Then she remembers she had promised a gift from the party. "Thanks for dragging the travois the rest of the way, Colt." She lifts the canvas and sees the cacao pods.

"We found along the way a tree, and harvested some of its fruit. As a gesture of friendship, we thought perhaps you might like to have some cacao." She picks up two pods, giving one to Gwenestri and the other to Calbark. "Have you ever tried chocolate?" she asks. "Perhaps you already know, but I can describe the process of how to turn the beans inside the pods into chocolate." She then fetches a third pod. "For your Aunt Selara." Then she suggests if they can find a place, they might want to plant one or two of the seeds, so that in time they can enjoy their own supply. "Some of the folk in our town asked if we could find cacao. We hope to plant a few up near Cloudhaven."

"What do you call this place, how long has it been here, and what do you do in so beautiful a location?" Yofiel asks after the ceremony concludes.

Dapple [AC 18; HP 28/28] (Kathy) 
Thursday September 19th, 2024 1:07:07 PM
"I'm your only cleric," Dapple reminds Yofiel.

Halflings rarely turn down free food, and Dapple cheerfully munches some more bread and honey. Her hands are sticky now.

Kaze (JonS) HP 42/45 AC 19/Touch & Flat Footed AC 14/ CMD: 18/ CMB: 6/ Grapple: 7 
Thursday September 19th, 2024 6:31:38 PM
Kaze looks at Dapple's hands, and then his own, both are sticky from the honey, with a snicker he'll say, "Dapple, before either of us touch anything we better go wash our paws, no wait, hands ..."

Ezekiel (BrianW) - AC 17/13/14; HP 38/38 
Thursday September 19th, 2024 7:01:47 PM
"Falkwyn wasn't with us when we had bread before?" asks Ezekiel. "I wonder where he wondered off too then."

Colt Human Rogue (Tim) AC 18 T 14 FF 14 HP 50/50 CMD 20  d20+12=22 ;
Thursday September 19th, 2024 10:48:52 PM
"Banana!" Colt slides down the ladder, kicks off just before he lands. "And I'll claim some more of that guest rite please!"

Siolo (Joe) - AC 15/13/13 ; HP 28/28 , NL 0 
Friday September 20th, 2024 1:00:12 AM
Siolo joins the gathering, but passes on the bread and honey.

"I know this may seem out of left field," he says to Gwenestri, "But, what do you know of Maab?"

The Outpost - DM Jess- Maps and documents  
Friday September 20th, 2024 9:17:48 AM
Ezekiel is confused about why the group is being asked to perform the guest rite again. Yofiel does her best to explain it to him; he wonders where Falkwyn had been when they first arrived. Most of the party, but especially Colt and Dapple are happy to eat again. Kaze suggests to Dapple that they both clean off their muddy paws/hands.

Yofiel then offers some of the cacao pods that the group found to Gwenestri and Calbark.

Gwenestri beams. “It’s been too long since I last had some. I keep asking Aunt Selara to plant some cacao trees here, but she says it’s a waste of valuable space, that they grow abundantly enough on their own. Though, if they are so abundant, why don’t we ever seem to have any on hand? I suppose it’s not quite as useful for Aunt Selara’s purposes as some of the other herbs she collects. But it’s so much yummier. We really are going to have to get another goat soon. I know that Aunt Selara was cross about it getting into the garden but, really, everywhere here is the garden. What was the poor girl to do? I miss chocolate drink, even if it seems much too hot here for it most of the time. I’m going to talk with her as soon as she gets back. Surely, she’ll see reason.”

Calbark tenses at Gwenestri’s mention of Selara’s absence, but recovers quickly. “Thank you,” he says. “This is a kind gift and an appreciated one.”

“We call this place Vinevale,” Gwenestri says. “For obvious reasons, I guess. It’s a play on words. Because of the cliff and the river. But also because Aunt Selara’s vines veil us. Clever, don’t you think? She built it. Quite some time ago. I don’t know exactly when, but I believe it’s older than Cloudhaven or any of the other settlements. I don’t think it was meant to last quite this long, But after Aunt Selara made her initial discoveries about the plants in this region, she decided to stay. I know she studies the plants and brews potions and stuff from them, but I don’t know the specifics.”

“Maab?” Gwenestri responds to Siolo. “My Aunt prays to her. Which makes sense I suppose. There are few places more natural than this. Why do you ask?”

Siolo (Joe) - AC 15/13/13 ; HP 28/28 , NL 0 
Friday September 20th, 2024 10:52:57 AM
"I have been in search of her," Siolo says back. "Your aunt seems to be quite a person. I'd like to meet her, if possible. Do you know when she'll be back?"

Falkwyn (Steven P) HP 37/37; AC 16/15/16; CMD 22; Male Elf Ranger 3/Wiz 2; Perception +8 
Friday September 20th, 2024 3:22:01 PM
Falkwyn, ready to try and better explain his presence and endeavors decides to hold back for a bit, as the people around him, most of them obviously friends, interact and speak with their hosts. Hosts for all of us, that is.

The elven archer reminds himself of the rewards ofttimes found in patience and silence. And so he simply smiles, nods, and listens.

Colt Human Rogue (Tim) AC 18 T 14 FF 14 HP 50/50 CMD 20 
Friday September 20th, 2024 8:52:02 PM
Colt makes sure to get a really big chunk of bread this time. He sits down next to Falkwyn. "So you and Yofiel are from the Culverwood. What's it like there?"

Kaze (JonS) HP 42/45 AC 19/Touch & Flat Footed AC 14/ CMD: 18/ CMB: 6/ Grapple: 7 
Friday September 20th, 2024 9:28:31 PM
Kaze will keep an ear open to the discussion about another "wood," and in case something else strange shows up

Dapple [AC 18; HP 28/28] (Kathy) 
Saturday September 21st, 2024 1:06:20 PM
Dapple cleans off her hands as best she can. "Did you say you were looking for Cloudhaven?" she asks Falkwyn.

Yofiel (Kim McCoy), female elf bard 5th AC 16/16/14 HP: 33/33 
Sunday September 22nd, 2024 1:35:13 PM

Yofi smiles and nods at the affable elf's response and conversation. "Yes, goats will eat just about anything - including that which we don't want them to touch. Some of them can still be very sweet animals. Did you get milk from the goat? That can combine nicely with chocolate." In turn, she acknowledges Calbark's response.

"'Vinevale'? I like that. And the name makes sense, as you explain it, Gwenestri."
---
"What is the Culverwood like?" the bard echoes Colt's query. "A large, sentient forest, rich in diverse flora and fauna, and a place you might not want to get lost in. It has only one city located about central southwest - Emerald City. A beautiful place, mainly peopled by elves, though many other races help make up the mix. I'd be happy to give you more information over time, Colt. Surely Falkwyn can help fill you in as well."

Falkwyn (Steven P) HP 37/37; AC 16/15/16; CMD 22; Male Elf Ranger 3/Wiz 2; Perception +8 
Sunday September 22nd, 2024 3:18:23 PM
(ooc: Would have responded about Culverwood far more quickly, but the Woldipedia seems to be down. Again. And after the fiasco earlier this week, I wanted to make sure I had details straight. Thanks for the assist, Yofiel!)

"The Culverwood is an amazing place, to be sure. A bit more of a Fey influence than most. Alive in a way that I'm not sure most other forests truly are...or at least none that I've seen. Then again, the same could be said of the jungle around here. The plants and vegetation...not to mention the surprising number of reptilian beasts..."

Falkwyn shudders for a moment, then grins, "The enormous ones with long necks surprised me, true enough, but I had to literally hide in the underbrush from a small group of whatever those lizard-like birds are called..."

Yofiel (Kim McCoy), female elf bard 5th AC 16/16/14 HP: 33/33 
Sunday September 22nd, 2024 11:46:02 PM

"Pteranodons?" Yofiel suggests regarding Falkwyn's question about the 'lizard-like birds.'

"Say, Calbark, I'm wondering if there might be a place to sit down and rest briefly, take off our backpacks, and wash up? There is another matter to let you know about - and perhaps you have more questions for us." She adds, pulling at a braid and plucking out a torn leaf she just noticed therein. "But, we've been hiking through the jungle, and, frankly, I wouldn't mind freshening up a bit - then, if you would, we can chat some more."

Some areas have been addressed, which is good, but Yofiel senses a change of pace might help people - especially Calbark? - relax a little. A moment ago the bard sensed Calbark's tensing at Gwen's mention of Selara's absence.

"Also, this place seems amazing. Cleverly camouflaged amid the jungle, growing wonderful plants, and attaining security through obscurity. A bit of a paradise in a dangerous place, no? It takes remarkable people to accomplish such," nodding both to their host elf and half orc. She stops talking, and awaits a decision.

Einar (StevenVdB) - HP68/68 - AC19/13/16 - CMD 21 
Monday September 23rd, 2024 5:51:12 AM
Einar is a bit distracted with all the talking. He's never been good at it and when too many are chatting he struggles to concentrate. Instead he looks if there's a training area in this place. He would love to swing his Falchion a bit just to calm his thoughts.

Colt Human Rogue (Tim) AC 18 T 14 FF 14 HP 50/50 CMD 20 
Monday September 23rd, 2024 8:38:52 AM
Colt listens to the Culverwood descriptions with interest. There is so much more wold out there than he ever imagined.

The Outpost - DM Jess- Maps and documents  
Monday September 23rd, 2024 9:36:18 AM
“In search of Maab?” Gwenestri replies to Siolo , cocking her head to the side. “I suppose that Aunt Selara would say that Maab is all around us, that she can be found wherever the wild things dwell. But something tells me that’s not exactly what you mean?”

“In terms of when Auntie will be back, well, I can’t say for sure. Hopefully sooner rather than later. But, as she says, some things can’t be rushed, and she trusts us to look after things in her absence. When she comes back, I’m sure she’d love to talk to you. She really can go on about plants and Nature and stuff.”

Colt enjoys some more bread and honey and asks Yofiel and Falkwyn about Culverwood. Kaze is interested in their answer. Dapple asks Falkwyn if he said he was looking for Cloudhaven.

Yofiel makes conversation with Gwenestri and answers Colt’s question about Culverwood. Falkwyn also responds and describes some of the dangers he’s faced in this jungle.

Einar looks around for a designated training area, but doesn’t see anything that might fit that description.

Calbark responds to Yofiel’s questions. “Can use the stream to wash up. There’s a small tub and some buckets in the lavatory, but it’s can get a bit cramped in there.” He gestures toward building a smaller round building with a roof of leaves (building E).

“We can talk in the dining room.” He points at the building you saw him exiting from when you first arrived (building B). It’s the largest building in the complex. Upon closer inspection, it seems to be made of small trees that grew together to make the walls, their branches intertwining to create a ceiling and roof. In the forest, trees growing like this would likely choke each other out, but here they seem to be thriving.


Yofiel (Kim McCoy), female elf bard 5th AC 16/16/14 HP: 33/33 
Monday September 23rd, 2024 10:21:04 AM

[OOC: I did not get the impression that we were walking through water to reach the entrance to the outpost until we saw the map. Is it so that the pathway we followed converted into a shallow stream at some point? Or is it that there is a dry pathway adjacent the stream, but it's just not shown on the map? Also, the darker areas to either side of the thorny wall and surrounding Vinevale - is that rock, or something else? We're not partially surrounded by the bottom of the plateau cliff, are we? /OOC]

Dapple [AC 18; HP 28/28] (Kathy) 
Monday September 23rd, 2024 2:04:01 PM
Dapple perks up at the magic words "dining room." She starts heading that way.

She pauses to examine the trees that have grown together to create the building. "This is really neat," she says, placing a hand on one of the trees. "How long did it take to grow it like this?"

Siolo (Joe) - AC 15/13/13 ; HP 28/28 , NL 0 
Monday September 23rd, 2024 5:24:41 PM
Siolo gives Gwenestri a pleasant smile, "Indeed, I do mean something else. Hopefully I get to meet your aunt. Though, that said, there are more pressing matters currently. What do you recall of anti-druid's work?

Kaze (JonS) HP 42/45 AC 19/Touch & Flat Footed AC 14/ CMD: 18/ CMB: 6/ Grapple: 7 
Monday September 23rd, 2024 5:43:22 PM
Now that he'd eaten more bread and honey, Kaze went back to wash his hands and face, then moved on into the dining room. He stops at the same spot Dapple did to admire how nature had provided a building, "probably used magic, or maybe the druid convinced the trees to grow together, hmmm."

Colt Human Rogue (Tim) AC 18 T 14 FF 14 HP 50/50 CMD 20 
Monday September 23rd, 2024 10:22:43 PM
Because Colt notices Kaze and Dapple admiring the tree wall of the building, he notices too. He's never seen anything like it. The topiary lions in front of the zLord Mayor's House were about the closest thing, but they were nowhere near as dense or useful. Nor did they ever have this feeling of life, except maybe for the week after the spring rains. Asense of wonder rises in him which he must express and share.

" Hey, Ezekiel. Check out these nice trees. "

Yofiel (Kim McCoy), female elf bard 5th AC 16/16/14 HP: 33/33 
Tuesday September 24th, 2024 12:53:28 AM

The tall and slender elf slowly walks the area, taking her time to sample the aromas, the lush flora, and the many colors and textures. She kneels at the stream of crystal clear water, taking it in near the falls. She draws water into her hands, and turns to the side as she splashes her face so the water drips to the earth adjacent the stream. She lowers her cupped palm into the water three times, brings it to her lips, and drinks.

A bit more water dampens her neck. All of that serves as precursor to her casting prestidigitation to finish by removing grime, vegetation, and sweat from her clothing, red hair, and body.

She twirls like a girl, then stops and asks, "Prestidigitation, anyone? Cleans you up real nice." Any who asks it of her she grants.

Yofiel walks downstream. She too, marvels at the horticultural habitation. "A great talent, a great gardener." She enters along with the others.

Einar (StevenVdB) - HP68/68 - AC19/13/16 - CMD 21 
Tuesday September 24th, 2024 3:38:41 AM
Einar looks at Yofiel as she offers some spell for getting freshened up. He never managed to get his beard in check and looking down on his travelling clothes he does look a bit scruffy...

"Well... I guess I could use some of that magic..." he sheepishly says to the Elf lass.

Ones freshened up he'll join the others.
While most seem interested in plants Einar is more curious about the animals around.

Colt Human Rogue (Tim) AC 18 T 14 FF 14 HP 50/50 CMD 20 
Tuesday September 24th, 2024 8:09:37 AM
"Yeah, sure. Thanks, Yofiel." Colt gets in line behind Ezekial.

Colt Human Rogue (Tim) AC 18 T 14 FF 14 HP 50/50 CMD 20 
Tuesday September 24th, 2024 8:10:19 AM
[ooc] Sorry. That last should have read 'behind Einar.' [/ooc]

The Outpost - DM Jess- Maps and documents  
Tuesday September 24th, 2024 9:02:20 AM
“Anti-druids?” Gwenestri asks. “Do they hate trees or something?” She blushes. “I’m sorry. Please do forgive my ignorance. My Aunt is a druid. I am not. When she returns, she should be able to actually answer your questions.”

Yofiel takes advantage of the stream--and her magic--to refresh herself. She drinks some of the water, finding it to be some of the sweetest, freshest water she has ever tasted. Einar and Colt take advantage of Yofiel’s offer of magical cleaning.

Dapple, Colt, and Kaze stop to admire the wall of the dining room. “Less time than you’d think,” Calbark says, laying his hand gently on the wood. "Was one of the first buildings here. Right after the laboratory and the bath.”

As you enter the dining hall, you note that it is partitioned with a line of trees similar to those on the exterior, which separates the dining area from the kitchen.

In the dining area, there is a large circular table, which provides more than enough seating for the heroes. On first glance, it appears roughly constructed. However, closer inspection reveals that this table was not built, but grown, likely from coaxing the roots of the trees that make up the building. The same is true for the curved benches that surround it. Gwenestri excuses herself and retreats into the kitchen area. A few minutes later, she returns with some nuts and jungle fruits. “The stew will take some time to heat, but until then...” She gestures toward the food as she lays it on the table.

OOC: There is a path next to the stream. It just isn’t on the map; it’s a deer path and not particularly well-marked. If you don’t know it, the trail can be difficult to lose. Fortunately, one of the members of your party has already been to the outpost, so you got to skip the survival checks to make sure that you were able to follow it. You are surrounded by the bottom of a plateau and there are cliffs on three sides of you, which prevents access, the wall of vegetation providing protection from the other side. The dark area on the map represents the cliff.

Ezekiel (BrianW) - AC 17/13/14; HP 38/38 
Tuesday September 24th, 2024 9:21:30 AM
"Wait, so you are saying you do have an Auntie Druid?" says Ezekiel, taking a break from being mesmerized by the trees. "Wouldn't you know her stance on trees then?"

Falkwyn (Steven P) HP 37/37; AC 16/15/16; CMD 22; Male Elf Ranger 3/Wiz 2; Perception +8 
Tuesday September 24th, 2024 3:28:17 PM
Taking a cue from Yofiel, Falkwyn uses his own Prestidigitaion cantrip to "freshen up", and offers to assist any of the others who have yet to be given assistance. "I have the spell as well, if anyone else still wants to catch a bit of relief from the humidity here..."

The elven woodsman follows Yofiel out onto the path, taking in the beauty of the Outpost. "Truly, this place is a wonder to behold. Quite the achievement for those who created it. I wonder how much was done so naturally, and how much magic was required?"

When Gwenestri brings out the bounty of fruits and nuts, Falkwyn nods, "Thank you very much, milady. You are quite kind."

Kaze (JonS) HP 42/45 AC 19/Touch & Flat Footed AC 14/ CMD: 18/ CMB: 6/ Grapple: 7 
Tuesday September 24th, 2024 7:17:17 PM
Kaze nods to Falkwyn, "I could use some freshening up. This honey, while tasty, seems resistant to water." Once he's clean and he is inside with his friends, he'll examine the table and walls and then sits when the promise of food is mentioned

Siolo (Joe) - AC 15/13/13 ; HP 28/28 , NL 0 
Tuesday September 24th, 2024 11:22:16 PM
"I'm sorry. I was referring to the Maya and the Circle of the Silver Birch," he says apologetically. "They go against pretty much everything that most other Circles stand for...What they do to animals...is just wrong.." Siolo trails off, clearly bothered at the thought of what Maya had done.

Yofiel (Kim McCoy), female elf bard 5th AC 16/16/14 HP: 33/33 
Wednesday September 25th, 2024 2:28:17 AM

Yofi is happy to comply with their requests. She casts prestidigitation twice to get Einar fully cleaned up, but mentions nothing about the dual casting, and once for Colt, who tends to his personal hygiene with a bit more regularity. "All right, boys, you look great!"

"So, you know magic and archery both," comments Yofiel when Falkwyn offers to use the same cantrip for others.

To his comments, she responds, "Indeed, an achievement of wonder. Hmmm - druidic magics are often well-attuned to nature, thus saying where one ends and the other begins may be challenging."

As she draws near Calbark on her way into the woody edifice, she inquires, "Were you here from the early days of what became Vinevale?"

The inside is as delightful as the area without. Rooted table and benches. "Stew? I love a good stew!" says Yofi. "And you provide such good appetizers, too. Would you like any help in the kitchen, Gwenestri? We can ponder Ezekiel's questions as we work."

Siolo brings up Maya. Calbark earlier alluded to acquaintance with her and her work, and that it was perhaps not wise to carry on public discourse about her. As we are no longer in the pathway, shouting over a wall, this might be a better place to talk about her.

"Yes, I concur with Siolo. I have read some of what Maya has written, and seen how she changes creatures from the inside out.

"Evil is not original, but rather derivative. It takes that which is good, and twists it, bringing about perversion. I believe her to be bitter and twisted in her character, and that is reflected in her works."

Einar (StevenVdB) - HP68/68 - AC19/13/16 - CMD 21  d20=17 ;
Wednesday September 25th, 2024 8:20:53 AM
(Spellcraft 17)

Despite Yofiel's discrete use of her double spell Einar realises the Elf lass is also a gentle diplomat...
Looking down at himself he smiles and thanks her... also twice...

A new man enters the dining hall with his nose up in the air taking in the stew...

The Outpost - DM Jess- Maps and documents  
Wednesday September 25th, 2024 9:34:05 AM
Kaze also takes advantage of Yofiel’s offer to get cleaned up. Einar is grateful to and impressed by Yofiel.

Gwenestri answers Ezekiel’s question very earnestly. “Oh, she’s definitely quite in favor of them. Decidedly so.”

“Oh, I imagine Aunt Selara drew on quite a bit of her magic to coax this place into being.” She glances at the fruits and berries. “And, it’s nothing. Really. Just what we’ve grown in the gardens and foraged from the forest nearby. Auntie travels deeper into the jungle, but it’s safer not to stray too far.”

“Yes, of course, how silly of me. Well, Maya and Jothan are the only ones I’ve met. Maya seemed rather misguided. Wrong. Evil, I guess as Yofiel says. She left--was asked to leave--not too long after I got here. Jothan was, well, rather sweet actually. I do hope he’s okay out there.”

“No," Calbark says to Yofiel. “This place was well established before I wandered here. Or was guided here, I suppose you could say. I spent a lot of time looking for a purpose, my calling. Eventually was lucky enough to find it here.”

Gwenestri can’t help but hide a smile as he speaks. “I’m, um, I’m glad you did,” she says, blushing slightly.

She replies to Yofiel’s offer to help. “Once the stew is ready, some help bringing it out would be much appreciated.” She pauses for a moment, her brows furrowing. “I hope we have enough bowls for everyone. We rarely have company here.” She does a quick head count. “We should be okay.”

Yofiel and Gwenestri go into the kitchen, which is rustic and simple, but serviceable enough for stew. They return with mismatched bowls of a stew that consists of sweet yams, earthy mushrooms, and bitter greens in a rich broth.

Ezekiel (BrianW) - AC 17/13/14; HP 38/38 
Wednesday September 25th, 2024 11:59:54 AM
"I like it here," says Ezekiel. "They keep giving us food."

Colt Human Rogue (Tim) AC 18 T 14 FF 14 HP 50/50 CMD 20 
Wednesday September 25th, 2024 12:47:28 PM
If we're serving the stew in bowls, that means multiple trips unless the elves are highly skilled wait-staff. Colt will help.

He listens to everyone with interest, but replies only to Ezekial, and then quietly so their hosts won't hear, "I like it to, but are vegetables all they eat? Where's the meat?"


Dapple [AC 18; HP 28/28] (Kathy) 
Wednesday September 25th, 2024 2:06:47 PM
Dapple climbs into one of the chairs, only to find the edge of the table level with her nose.

"Hey, do you guys have a box or something?" she asks. "Or a baby seat?" she adds, her voice resigned.

Falkwyn (Steven P) HP 37/37; AC 16/15/16; CMD 22; Male Elf Ranger 3/Wiz 2; Perception +8 
Wednesday September 25th, 2024 3:46:45 PM
Falkwyn takes his seat along with the others, a slightly awkward feeling, since he really didn't know any of them...or they him...but the smell of stew is simply too strong to pass up. He waits, listening quietly and nods in agreement at Ezekiel and is about to comment to both him and Colt when Dapple speaks up from her seat nearby.

The elf pauses, then shrugs out of his haversack, and offers it to the halfling cleric. "If there's not anything else available, Miss Dapple, perhaps this would suffice?"

Kaze (JonS) HP 42/45 AC 19/Touch & Flat Footed AC 14/ CMD: 18/ CMB: 6/ Grapple: 7 
Wednesday September 25th, 2024 7:30:07 PM
Kaze watches Dapple's plight, and then see's his own, "Um, can you make that two boxes or maybe one long one?"

In response to the question of meat or no meat, Kaze throws in his two coppers, "It's hot food, and smells delicious, besides eating too much meat is bad for the stomach," he looks down and pokes his, then looks back up, "eating vegetables periodically help with, hmmm, digestion"

Yofiel (Kim McCoy), female elf bard 5th AC 16/16/14 HP: 33/33 
Thursday September 26th, 2024 1:34:21 AM

Yofiel takes heartily to the warm portion of the meal. "I love this. My mother often uses yams in cooking, and she knows her mushrooms. Oh, you will have to meet her some day! The balance of the sweet and bitter is lively, and the greens oh so scrumptious! Do you have a special name for this stew?" She takes up a few nuts to chew on as she awaits a response.

It was good to see the newcomer attend to Dapple's request. And she understands Kaze's plight as well. They are handling it, and she leaves it to others to solve this matter.

After finishing her bowl, she offers to help clean up after the meal. "Then, perhaps you will allow us to furnish you more information on why we were sent here, and what we seek. But, for all your kindness and hospitality, we also must ask this: Is there something we can do for you? Have you need of supplies of any sort? Is there a task outside the safety of this outpost you might ask us to handle for you?"

Einar (StevenVdB) - HP68/68 - AC19/13/16 - CMD 21 
Thursday September 26th, 2024 7:00:22 AM
Einar likes the stew a lot... he dips bread in the thick sauce... and listens to the conversation.
I



The Outpost - DM Jess- Maps and documents  
Thursday September 26th, 2024 8:53:07 AM
Dapple requests something to elevate her seat, as does Kaze. Falkwyn offers his pack, and Gwenestri jumps up at the request, darting over to the side of the room. She returns with an elevated stool “Forgive me! I should have thought of this sooner. This was Master Waelius’s. We put it aside in his absence, but you may certainly use it now.” Between Falkwyn’s pack and this stool, the shorter members of the party should be able to situate themselves comfortably at the table.

Ezekiel is pleased by how much food he’s been given to eat since entering the outpost. Einar quietly enjoys his. Yofiel heaps praise upon it. Gwenestri lets out a bell-like laugh at Yofiel’s question about having a name for it. “Gods no. Just stew. And no two are ever the same. It’s usually just a matter of throwing whatever we happen to have into a pot.”

Colt is also happy to be fed, but he wonders if the inhabitants only eat veggies. Kaze thinks that the food smells good and suggests that the extra fiber will help with digestion.

As you are sitting at the same table as your hosts, they can’t help but hear the conversation. “We try not to cut short any life unless necessary," Callback explains. "If we’re forced to kill a beast, then we’ll eat their meat to honor their life. But we don’t kill just to fill our bellies. The plants of this place provide more than enough sustenance.”

He turns to Yofiel. “I think we’d both be interested to hear your story." He looks pointedly at Falkwyn, who has shared few details about how he came to be wandering outside the outpost. "As for a request of our own. Your offer of supplies is generous, but some of our members are on a journey to acquire what supplies we need--hopefully on their way back at this point. Other needs had best wait until Lady Selara returns.”


Ezekiel (BrianW) - AC 17/13/14; HP 38/38 
Thursday September 26th, 2024 9:21:58 AM
"What is your stance on eating plant-animals?" wonders Ezekiel.

Siolo (Joe) - AC 15/13/13 ; HP 28/28 , NL 0 
Thursday September 26th, 2024 12:05:48 PM
Siolo nods at Callbarck, "The Circle of Alder taught me an incantation to enhance berries to be more nutritious, equivalent to a full meal. That is my preferred method."

Falkwyn (Steven P) HP 37/37; AC 16/15/16; CMD 22; Male Elf Ranger 3/Wiz 2; Perception +8 
Thursday September 26th, 2024 4:41:05 PM
"More than happy to share. Just didn't want to manipulate everyone's time when there was so much to discuss and such a wonderful meal to take part in." Falkwyn meets Calback's look, but not in challenge, but in respect. "Seemed rather rude at the time. But I could go into it, now...."

The elven magic-user pauses and glances at Yofiel, "Unless you'd like to share your story first?"

Yofiel (Kim McCoy), female elf bard 5th AC 16/16/14 HP: 33/33 
Thursday September 26th, 2024 5:08:26 PM

As Calbark asked to hear our story, Yofiel obliges, after first responding to the solo traveler. "You might want to hear this, too, Falkwyn, and then of course we should want to hear your story."

The elf brushes back a bit of red hair that strayed onto her face, then begins speaking.

"A few days ago a representative of the WLA - the Woldian League of Adventurers - showed up in Cloudhaven. If we are willing, he said, the WLA would like to install local access to The Catacombs - their unique store for Woldian adventurers. That could be a handy thing.

"The fellow, a halfling called Danric Bramblemoon - and with a name like that, perhaps it is redundant to mention he is a halfling - he said that to do so, they are keen on getting in touch with Master Ebin Waelius, as he has helped them on a few occasions with installing the sort of portal that would be required for the Cloudhaven to Catacombs access.

"Moreover, though the Master is accustomed to showing up when he chooses, Danric explained, they have not heard anything from or about the wizard for a very long time. He added that he has a focus on deep studies of flora. That means plant life, Ezekiel," she tells their companion with a smile.

As she continues, though, her expression turns to a look of concern. "Aside from the help he might render, they are worried that Master Waelius may himself need help. So, we are to seek him out, ensure his welfare, and, once that is done, let him know of the WLA's inquiry into his availability to assist.

"The representative explained that he had last been seen at Vinevale and that we should visit you, see if you need assistance, and learn what we might from you of the esteemed wizard's whereabouts. Well, he did not call this place Vinevale, but rather, 'an outpost not far from Cloudhaven.'"

Yofiel takes a breath, then adds, "So, does any of this make sense to you? Have you insights or intuition into where we might begin our search?"

Yofiel (Kim McCoy), female elf bard 5th AC 16/16/14 HP: 33/33 
Thursday September 26th, 2024 5:23:14 PM

Pop Quiz!

A. DM Jess - Callback
B. Siolo - Callbarck
C. Falkwyn - Calback
D. Yofiel - Calbark

Which of the four names above for Valevine's half-orc is correct?

Dapple [AC 18; HP 28/28] (Kathy) 
Thursday September 26th, 2024 5:54:56 PM
"Plant-animals are pretty rare, Ezekiel," Dapple says. "I don't think they need a policy on them."

Colt Human Rogue (Tim) AC 18 T 14 FF 14 HP 50/50 CMD 20 
Thursday September 26th, 2024 10:46:35 PM
"We needed a policy on them, Dapple," Colt smiles.

Yofiel (Kim McCoy), female elf bard 5th AC 16/16/14 HP: 33/33 
Thursday September 26th, 2024 11:13:40 PM

"Grim Ripr's policy is he does not eat the hearts of plant-animals," the bard gives as an aside.

Falkwyn (Steven P) HP 37/37; AC 16/15/16; CMD 22; Male Elf Ranger 3/Wiz 2; Perception +8 
Friday September 27th, 2024 6:58:04 AM
Falkwyn arches his already arched eyebrow, not quite understanding the group's in-joke. He smiles politely and says nothing.

The Outpost - DM Jess- Maps and documents  
Friday September 27th, 2024 9:06:53 AM
“A handy spell that,” Calbark says to Siolo. “Your group is lucky to have someone who can cast it.”

Ezekiel asks about eating dinosaur/plant hybrids. Dapple doesn’t think a policy on them is necessary. Colt disagrees. Yofiel reminds them of Grim’s policy.

Calbark says, “Can’t say that I’ve ever come across a dinosaur made of plants. But if I did, don’t reckon I’d eat it. Sounds unnatural. And not something I’d particularly want in my stomach.”

Falkwyn says that he is happy to share his story, but offers for his new friends to go first.

Yofiel explains the party’s mission to find Master Ebin Waelius. “I wish there was more that we could tell you, but neither of us has any idea where he might have gone off, too. He didn’t really say much to us about his plans. Auntie might have a better idea. He, well, she founded this place and they worked together on their research. If it’s any consolation, he does this quite frequently. And he always returns, it’s just, well, a matter of when…” She trails off with a frown. I’m truly sorry that you made the journey here and we can’t help, though I am very glad you’ve come.”

Once she has completed, she and Calbark exchanges a look. There is a question in her eyes, and he responds with a shrug. "I suppose in the morning you could take a look around his cottage to see if there are any clues about his whereabouts there?"


Yofiel (Kim McCoy), female elf bard 5th AC 16/16/14 HP: 33/33 
Friday September 27th, 2024 1:15:16 PM

"In the morning?" Yofiel asks. "Sure, that could help a lot. We could wait until then. Might it be inconvenient for us to do so now? I don't want to press, and we'll be happy to wait until the morning if you think that best."

She does not wish to cause embarrassment, but inwardly wonders why they would want them to wait. Maybe some of their things are in the wizard's quarters, and they want to clean it up a bit before strangers take a look?

Colt Human Rogue (Tim) AC 18 T 14 FF 14 HP 50/50 CMD 20 
Friday September 27th, 2024 6:48:52 PM
Colt settles at the table and pays close attention to his stew and nuts and veg. He also listens to the conversation. Are they chucking us out in the morning?

Siolo (Joe) - AC 15/13/13 ; HP 28/28 , NL 0 
Friday September 27th, 2024 7:21:25 PM
Siolo face darkens to grim seriousness, "And, I'd like to look at any notes left behind by Maya and her student. I don't like the idea of learning their methods, but knowing is better than not and maybe I'll find some sort of weakness." Siolo ends with some forced hope as he looks down at the food that he's been pushing around. His almost radiant red hair covers his face in its normal messy fashion. He is clearly preparing himself to do a task he very much does not want to.

Kaze (JonS) HP 42/45 AC 19/Touch & Flat Footed AC 14/ CMD: 18/ CMB: 6/ Grapple: 7 
Friday September 27th, 2024 7:34:30 PM
Kaze tones out the conversation, as much of it he either knows, or doesn't apply to him. He savors and enjoys the stew ... his mother makes a good stew in the winter, this is almost on par with that...

Yofiel (Kim McCoy), female elf bard 5th AC 16/16/14 HP: 33/33 
Sunday September 29th, 2024 11:20:40 AM

Noting Falkwyn's puzzlement over the discussion over plant-animals, Yofiel takes a moment to explain. "Falkwyn, here in the jungle we have encountered a few dinosaurs, as well as some type of pterosaur, that rather than being made entirely of bone, sinew, and meat, instead the inside of their bodies were partially formed from plant fibers. Very odd, and due to some augmentation of abilities and intellect, we posit that magic - whether arcane or druidic - was involved in designing or altering these creatures. This is one reason we would value the opportunity to meet with Master Waelius. Perhaps he might help us better puzzle out how such critters came to be."

Falkwyn (Steven P) HP 37/37; AC 16/15/16; CMD 22; Male Elf Ranger 3/Wiz 2; Perception +8 
Sunday September 29th, 2024 6:58:53 PM
"That is...fascinating, to say the least. Was the creature hostile? In fact, are many of them dangerous? Before coming here, I've never encountered anything like these beasts." Intrigued, Falkwyn doesn't hide his curiosity.

Siolo (Joe) - AC 15/13/13 ; HP 28/28 , NL 0 
Monday September 30th, 2024 1:00:17 AM
"They are generally as dangerous or more than they normally are," the red-headed half-elf responds matter-of-factly. "Occasionally, the magic used has additional effects. For example, we encountered one that had permanent magical flight."

Siolo continues, though his tone is disappointed, "The problem is, I don't know if breeding will pass on such traits, or which ones. And, if they do, what the effect of a hyper fitness to their environment will do. Sure, they may become apex predators, but will they completely depopulate the prey from the area? Without a similar balancing factor to the prey population, the predators will eventually die off. And then, all the efforts from Maya and hers will just result in everything dying. I just don't understand why..."

Einar (StevenVdB) - HP68/68 - AC19/13/16 - CMD 21 
Monday September 30th, 2024 6:45:47 AM
The next morning Einar too listens with amazement about the plant-animals. He hasn't encountered one yet so it sounds both interesting and scary.
He's also curious as to what their next move will be...

The Outpost - DM Jess- Maps and documents  
Monday September 30th, 2024 10:16:09 AM
Yofiel describes the plant/dinosaur hybrids that the party encountered. Falkwyn asks some follow-up questions, which Siolo answers, expressing his fears about the effects that Maya’s creations might have on the local ecosystem. Einar listens to the conversation; Kaze tones it out. Calbark looks increasingly concerned about these hybrids, exchanging a look with Gwenestri and saying, in a low voice. “Your aunt needs to be told of this as soon as she returns.” Gwenestri nods in agreement.

Yofiel asks if the group might not be able to check Master Waelius’s quarter’s now. Colt fears that the heroes might be asked to leave in the morning.

Gwenestri looks visibly uncomfortable at Yofiel’s questions. Sense Motive check DC 20 Highlight to display spoiler: {You get the sense that she doesn't like to say no to people, especially not new friends, but she doesn’t fully feel like she can say yes in this situation}. She looks to Calbark, who speaks up. “Listen, you seem like fine folks, so I’ll level with you. I trust you and so does Gwenestri. You wouldn’t be here if we didn’t. And you want to go poking around--unsupervised--in either of our quarters, you’re welcome to do so. But Master Waelius isn’t here proffer that invitation himself. And it doesn’t seem right for us to make that decision for him--though it sounds like you’ve been trying to do good by tracking him down. You can look around, but one of us needs to be with you. Have chores to do the rest of this afternoon--you’re arrival already has us a bit behind on what needs getting done. But I can take you in the morning.”

“Plus, we are all eager to hear your story,” Gwenestri says to Falkwyn, trying to diffuse any tension caused by Calbark’s assertion. “Perhaps, tonight, at supper? After chores.”

He turns to Siolo. “There I can’t help you. Whatever, Maya didn’t bring with her, Lady Selara burned. And from the sounds of it, she was right to do so. Dangerous stuff, that.”

Colt Human Rogue (Tim) AC 18 T 14 FF 14 HP 50/50 CMD 20 
Monday September 30th, 2024 12:23:33 PM
"I can help with the chores. If we made you late, it's only fair that we help you catch up. " Colt glances over at Yofiel.

Dapple [AC 18; HP 28/28] (Kathy) 
Monday September 30th, 2024 12:49:05 PM
"I might be able to help with chores, too," Dapple says. "Especially if you have to reach something close to the ground."

Falkwyn (Steven P) HP 37/37; AC 16/15/16; CMD 22; Male Elf Ranger 3/Wiz 2; Perception +8  d20+1=8 ;
Monday September 30th, 2024 3:47:22 PM
(OOC: Insight Check = 8)

" I think that might be a fine compromise. I'll volunteer to aid with the chores as well, while a few of you go with either Gwenestri or Calbark to examine this Master Waelius' room. On a superficial level, at the very least. If something should be discovered to be in disarray...?" Falkwyn trails off and then adds, "Then we can discuss any findings and the wonders of physical labor, this evening over dinner."

Falkwyn then adds a mischievious grin, "Oh, and maybe then I can fill you all in on my treasure map..."

Kaze (JonS) HP 42/45 AC 19/Touch & Flat Footed AC 14/ CMD: 18/ CMB: 6/ Grapple: 7 
Monday September 30th, 2024 5:42:21 PM
Kaze followed up Dapple's comment "I can help with chores too. Would make me feel better about eating your food if I pitch in."

Yofiel (Kim McCoy), female elf bard 5th AC 16/16/14 HP: 33/33  d20+11=25 ;
Monday September 30th, 2024 7:53:54 PM

"Oh, I hope you did not think we were requesting unsupervised access," Yofiel responds. "Be with us, please, as we see if there might be something in his quarters to help us discern where we might go to find him. And the morning sounds fine! Also, I would not think of entering your quarters uninvited. You have kindly allowed us to enter this beautiful place, and I trust each of us to be good guests, as you are proving yourselves to be gracious hosts."

She then adds, "As you have chores, well, as you have heard - we volunteer to help. If you have a special project or request a larger group of people might handle, name it, and we'll see what our combined minds and hands might accomplish!"

The industrious elf pitches in where needed. And she looks forward to learning more about the map later in the day.
=============
Sense Motive: 25

Ezekiel (Kim sub for BrianW) - AC 17/13/14; HP 38/38 
Tuesday October 1st, 2024 4:11:31 AM

"If you need electricity for anything, let me know," offers Ezekiel. "Or, I can stack little things in small piles for you, if that would be useful."

Einar (StevenVdB) - HP68/68 - AC19/13/16 - CMD 21 
Tuesday October 1st, 2024 6:23:46 AM
Einar swings his falchion on his back and rubs his hands. Perhaps now he finally can do something to help.

"Any chores I can help with? I'll gladly assist Sir! he says to Calbark.

He doesn't like to walk around unarmed in this jungle - not even in this outpost - but if the Falchion hinders whatever chores he can help with, he will of course put it somewhere safe.

Ezekiel (BrianW) - AC 17/13/14; HP 38/38 
Tuesday October 1st, 2024 6:58:37 AM
"I can lift small things," says Ezekiel. "So long as they weigh less than five pounds and are within 15 feet of me. Wait, did I just say something?"

The Outpost - DM Jess- Maps and documents  
Tuesday October 1st, 2024 9:01:51 AM
“Oh that would be lovely! Wouldn’t it, Calbark?” Gwenestri responds, beaming at the party’s offer to help with chores. “Let’s see, I have to do some work in the gardens, which, you’ve probably noticed, is most of this outpost. Have to check to see if any new sprouts are peaking through to transport them to somewhere they can flourish. No weeding here. Aunt Selara says that there is no such thing as weeds. Every plant has its purpose. And then I need to water the plants in Aunt’s lab. And, of course, spend some time talking with all of them and encouraging them to grow.”

She looks to Calbark. “Have to get on the roof of our sleeping quarters and work on training the vines. Haul water to the bathhouse. And cook something for dinner. Probably more stew,” he says.

“It’s best if Calbark cooks,” Gwenestri says to the group with a wink. “I don’t seem to be able to even boil a potato properly. Do you think that’s anything you might be able to help with?” she says hopefully. “And then once our work is done, one of us can take you to Master Waelius’s quarters. And then hear Falkwyn’s tale.”

Dapple [AC 18; HP 28/28] (Kathy) 
Tuesday October 1st, 2024 1:37:58 PM
"I'd be happy to fetch water," Dapple says. "Though I won't be able to carry much. Talking to the plants sounds like fun, but I'm not a druid. I'm not sure it would do anything."

Ezekiel (BrianW) - AC 17/13/14; HP 38/38 
Tuesday October 1st, 2024 2:16:19 PM
"Anyone can talk to plants, Dapple," says Ezekiel. "The difficult part is getting them to answer."

Falkwyn (Steven P) HP 37/37; AC 16/15/16; CMD 22; Male Elf Ranger 3/Wiz 2; Perception +8 
Tuesday October 1st, 2024 3:26:02 PM
"Oh, plants can be very good listeners, I've found. Still, gardening isn't exactly my favorite thing, but I do have a good bit of experience with plants from back home. I could assist with any new sprouts you've got coming in, to be sure." Falkwyn says. "Barring that, I suppose I could help out with some good, old fashioned watering of your aunt's plants. Nothing too complicated there."

Kaze (JonS) HP 42/45 AC 19/Touch & Flat Footed AC 14/ CMD: 18/ CMB: 6/ Grapple: 7 
Tuesday October 1st, 2024 9:26:24 PM
As a Ranger, Kaze never passes up an opportunity to get closer to nature, "I'd like to help with the roof. I find that singing to plants often has better results then telling them what to do." He clears his throat and then mumbles, "I don't sing all that great, so don't ask to be serenaded."

Siolo (Joe) - AC 15/13/13 ; HP 28/28 , NL 0 
Tuesday October 1st, 2024 10:59:59 PM
"For today, I can give basic assistance. I am pretty knowledgeable. If you'd like, I can practice some other incantations my Circle has taught that will increase the growth rate of the crops."

Yofiel (Kim McCoy), female elf bard 5th AC 16/16/14 HP: 33/33  d20+11=22 ;
Wednesday October 2nd, 2024 3:05:09 AM

"I can boil a potato. Or fry it. Or bake it. Or hash it. Or mash it," Yofiel says. "Same with yams. My mother taught me to cook, and my father taught me a few of his specialties. I'm not a master cook, but I can at least get by. I like chopping vegetables, too." She is happy to help in the kitchen. She will be happy to get to know Calbark a bit better. Though she likes to ask questions, and will ask some, she also has the sense not to babble on, and to allow for times of quiet.

She knows that Gwenestri fancies the half orc. She does not probe overmuch, but may ask a question or two. Such as, "How was it you came to live here at Vinevale?" Also, she will mention Grim Ripr's tribe, and ask whether he is familiar with them.
========
Sense motive: 22 to gauge how Calbark is taking to her questions, backing off if an area seems off limits, navigating through areas he seems open to discuss. Her aim is to be respectful, but interested in getting to know him. Much of the conversation will relate to the cooking itself, his techniques, favorite food combinations, spices, and so forth.

Einar (StevenVdB) - HP68/68 - AC19/13/16 - CMD 21 
Wednesday October 2nd, 2024 5:33:36 AM
"Hauling water it is. I go with Dapple."

He checks with Gwenestri for some large buckets and perhaps a long pole so he can carry the pole sideways on his shoulders hanging a couple of buckets on each side. (STR 18... time to do something with it) Perhaps Dapple can help filling the buckets and preparing the pole so Einar can do the heavy lifting.

Colt Human Rogue (Tim) AC 18 T 14 FF 14 HP 50/50 CMD 20 
Wednesday October 2nd, 2024 8:10:53 AM
The roof sounds good to Colt. It's an excuse to get out of his armor, and climbing can be fun.

The Outpost - DM Jess- Maps and documents  
Wednesday October 2nd, 2024 9:26:10 AM
“Oh, you don’t need to be a druid to talk to plants,” Gwenestri says to Dapple. “I’m certainly not and Aunt Selara has me do it all the time. Falkwyn’s right. They are good listeners--even if they don’t talk back. At least not to me. I think my aunt has some really marvelous conversations with them, though.” She grins at Ezekiel.

The party sets to work completing the different tasks. Dapple and Einar haul water from the stream to the lab (Building A) and the bathhouse (Building E). The lab contains a few rows of potted plants, growing beneath glowing arcane lights. It also includes work benches with cutting boards, mortar and pestles, bottles of jars--some empty, some containing liquids, pollens, roots, and dried foliage. Some local flora hangs from a rack above the bench, the leaves and flowers drying. There is also an elaborate alchemical set.

Falkwyn and Siolo help with gardening, Siolo drawing on his druidic magic to enhance the growth of the plants. Gwenestri claps her hands in delight as he does so. “Won’t Auntie be surprised!” she says with a conspiratorial smile.

Kaze and Colt get to work on the roof of the dorms (Building D), Calbark showing them how to train the vines. “Sing away,” he says to Kaze.

Calbark talks with Yofiel as they chop up taro root and hearts of palms, tomatoes, mushrooms, and ferns. “Funny you should mention that tribe,” he says. “That’s where I was heading. My mother’s people. My parents, they raised me in Plateau city. My mum, well, she thought I’d have a better life there than with her tribe--especially with me being half human--so she left when she learned she was in the family way. They did right by me, the both of them. But I couldn’t shake the idea that I wasn’t where I was supposed to be. Struck out on my own when I came of age, looking for the orc tribe. Thought maybe I was, I don’t know, supposed to follow their ways, though Mum had warned me that they could be brutal. Ended up here instead. Figured out pretty quickly that this was it. I was right where I was supposed to be.” He pauses for a bit. “How’d you end up in these wilds?”

Ezekiel (BrianW) - AC 17/13/14; HP 38/38 
Wednesday October 2nd, 2024 10:41:16 AM
"I have always found that whereever I end up, that's where I am," says Ezekiel.

Dapple [AC 18; HP 28/28] (Kathy) 
Wednesday October 2nd, 2024 5:48:27 PM
Hauling buckets to the lab isn't too bad, but the bathhouse is too darned far away from the stream. Dapple gasps and pants, needing both hands to carry a single bucket. "I don't know what made me think I could do this," she mutters.

But she keeps going, and hauls more water than she gives herself credit for.

Kaze (JonS) HP 42/45 AC 19/Touch & Flat Footed AC 14/ CMD: 18/ CMB: 6/ Grapple: 7 
Wednesday October 2nd, 2024 7:23:47 PM
Kaze nods at Calbark, and begins singing a lullaby in beastfolk, which sounds more like growling than singing, but it helps him concentrate on what he is doing

Colt Human Rogue (Tim) AC 18 T 14 FF 14 HP 50/50 CMD 20 
Wednesday October 2nd, 2024 7:26:52 PM
From the roof Colt can see Dapple struggling. "I'll be right back. Dapple needs a hand."

He stalks carefully across the vines, crouched slightly forward, knees bent, toes searching for the thicker stronger vines to take his weight. He sits on the edge of the roof and pivots his legs over the edge. Lying on his stomach his toes search again for the stronger vines before he releases his grip from a roof vine to grasp one in the wall. Tricky part complete, he goes hand to hand down the wall.

A few moments later he asks the halfling, "Dapple, want some help?"

[Ooc]Assuming take 10 for 18 is a good enough climb check. [/ooc]

Yofiel (Kim McCoy), female elf bard 5th AC 16/16/14 HP: 33/33 
Thursday October 3rd, 2024 3:12:48 AM

"In Plateau City? Very interesting city, that. I spent time with my folks there over a few decades. Papa often had business there. Though we lived mostly in Emerald City." She listens more. "It is good to find where one is supposed to be. Thank you for telling me some of your story, Calbark. So, how did I end up here?"

Yofiel pauses, then speaks. "My father was a bard. Mother has many talents. Among others she is a litster, weaver, dressmaker, and leatherworker. My father was known for getting people in conflict to take clever approaches to attain reconciliation. Or, to help them win when it was thought they might lose, in a way that brought adversaries into friendship. Some called him 'the bargain maker.'" She smiled as she recalled the wide number of surprising ways he would deal with stubborn people. But then her face flushes, and she adds, "Not everyone appreciated his approach, though. It eventually got him killed, about two years ago, in the Scab."

She chops the taro root with greater vigor. She tries to hide the tears forming in her eyes.

After a moment and more chopping, she says, "It sounds like your parents really loved you, Calbark."

Einar (StevenVdB) - HP68/68 - AC19/13/16 - CMD 21 
Thursday October 3rd, 2024 6:52:47 AM
"You do great Dapple... lemmie help...

Einar could probably just haul the water and put Dapple in his neck but he admires tje halfling's pride so instead he just tries to support her mentally...



The Outpost - DM Jess- Maps and documents  
Thursday October 3rd, 2024 8:55:39 AM
Dapple struggles just a bit to haul water, but receives encouragement and offers of help from Colt and Einar.

Kaze works with the vines in the dorm, singing to them in the language of the beastfolk. They seem to respond to his lullaby, twisting a bit closer to him, one vine brushing against his leg before settling into place.

Falkwyn and Siolo help Gwenestri with the gardening and she chatters half with them, half with the plants.

Ezekiel muses about ending up where one is, while Yofiel helps Calbark prepare the stew. She tells him a bit about her past, and his features soften as he notices her evident sorrow. “I’m sorry to hear about your pa,” he says. “He sounds like a good male. And seems to me that you learned a lot from him and have done him proud by putting it to good use.”

He throws the vegetables they’ve been cutting into a large cast iron pot and then inclines his head toward the door. “Come on. Gather up the others, and I’ll show you to Master Waelius’s cottage.”

He leads Yofiel and anyone who wishes to accompany her to the cottage (Building C). Like the rest of the buildings in the complex, it appears to have been grown, rather than built. Calbark opens the door. The cottage is divided into two rooms. A small bedchamber is off to the side of the larger room, which consists of floor to ceiling bookcases. On closer inspection, you note that the shelves appear to be part of the living wood of the abode. The entire room is crammed full of books. If there is a system to how they have been shelved and piled, you certainly cannot discern it. Also in the room is an overstuffed, comfortable looking chair, built for one of the smaller races. A small, stained table sits beside it. There is also a large wooden desk.


Kaze (JonS) HP 42/45 AC 19/Touch & Flat Footed AC 14/ CMD: 18/ CMB: 6/ Grapple: 7 
Thursday October 3rd, 2024 6:59:19 PM
Kaze stays with the vines, as his friends are far more knowledgeable about arcane matters then he is, plus he's enjoying his time with nature

Colt Human Rogue (Tim) AC 18 T 14 FF 14 HP 50/50 CMD 20 
Thursday October 3rd, 2024 10:00:38 PM
Colt rejoins Kaze on the roof.

Siolo (Joe) - AC 15/13/13 ; HP 28/28 , NL 0 
Thursday October 3rd, 2024 10:35:31 PM
Siolo similarly chats with Gwenestri some and tends to the plants at other times. He certainly seems to be in his element in a place that mixes nature and civilization.

When given the opportunity to check out Waelius's cottage, and seeing that Yofiel might be one of the few going, Siolo decides to tag along.

"I don't know if I'll be of any assistance. But, I'll certainly try. "

Dapple [AC 18; HP 28/28] (Kathy) 
Thursday October 3rd, 2024 11:48:40 PM
Dapple does not go to the cottage. Now that she's done hauling water, she sits and enjoys the feeling of not hauling water.

Yofiel (Kim McCoy), female elf bard 5th AC 16/16/14 HP: 33/33  d20+14=15 ;
Friday October 4th, 2024 3:07:31 AM

Yofiel nods after Calbark's comment about her father. "I have always been proud of him," she responds quietly.

She scoops a few scattered veggie parts from the corners and adds them into the stewpot. "Great, let's go!"

"After a fair bit of chores, I can see that some of you wish to take a break. You earned it," the bard says to her friends as she kneels to wash her hands in the crystal-clear water of the stream. "Calbark is opening Master Waelius' cottage to us." She stands, and says, "Join us now, or a bit later, if you choose. Thanks, Siolo. It is good to have your discerning eye."

Witnessing the vast array of books and scrolls, Yofi emits a gasp. "This... this is aMAzing. He has three or four - no, at least five times as many writings as my father managed to gather. Oooh," she says as she runs her fingers over the titled and untitled books on the shelves.

She looks to see if she can discern a pattern in the arrangements of the tomes.

"The master's furniture is for someone of smaller stature. Calfast, is he of gnomish or halfling descent? Or am I mistaken?"

Perception (15).

Einar (StevenVdB) - HP68/68 - AC19/13/16 - CMD 21 
Friday October 4th, 2024 7:11:46 AM
Einar is certain he can't do much in the cottage so instead he looks for a few cold drinks, some nuts and berries perhaps and then checks with Dapple... "Can I sit here?" Einar asks while he hands Dapple a drink and puts the nuts 'n berries on the ground between them.

The Outpost - DM Jess- Maps and documents  
Friday October 4th, 2024 9:33:45 AM
Dapple finishes hauling water, and elects not to go into the cottage. From their labors, Einar realizes that the water they have been hauling is surprisingly cool--especially given the muggy jungle heat. He fills a cup for both Dapple and himself and asks her if he can sit beside her. Gwenestri, very pleased to be done with her chores early, will fetch you some nuts and mangos from the kitchen.

Kaze and Colt remain on the roof. The vines continue to respond to Kaze’s singing, brushing against your legs in an almost affectionate manner.

Siolo feels at home tending to the plants and chatting with Gwenestri. He joins Yofiel in Master Waelius’s cottage.

“He’s gnomish, ma’am,” Calbark answers Yofiel when she asks about the furnishings. She examines the books on the shelves and piled on the desk and around the cottage floor, but can not discern any sort of organization--if there is one, which you begin to doubt. Tomes about transmutation and enchantment are shelved next to books about botany, tactical warfare, and--best you can tell from their titles--a few rather saucy-sounding romance novels. Two rather ancient looking scrolls about evocation and conjuration magic sit atop a stack of books, that among other things, includes a detailed history of the politics of the Taur Islands and a children’s book about the adventures of a young boy and his pony.

Yofiel (Kim McCoy), female elf bard 5th AC 16/16/14 HP: 33/33  d20+15=23 ; d20+14=18 ;
Friday October 4th, 2024 11:04:45 AM

"Ah, a gnome - thank you," Yofiel responds to Calbark's answer.

Yofiel picks up one of the books on botany, knowing that is one of the wizard's present foci. She reads the first couple of pages, then begins a skim through the tome, pausing if she finds any marginal notes along the way. She will do likewise with the next two botanical works after the first - also giving attention to end matters and conclusions.

"Siolo, do you want to check the desk? Perhaps he has some notes, or some other item that might give us a clue."

After the 3 botanical works, she picks up the boy and his pony book and skims that. She likes a good story. And she had a horse when she was younger.

Knowledge, nature: 23
Perception: 18

Ezekiel (BrianW) - AC 17/13/14; HP 38/38  d20+11=20 ; d20+11=20 ; d20+12=29 ; d20+12=19 ;
Friday October 4th, 2024 11:46:06 AM
Ezekiel will peruse the magic books and scrolls, somehow getting a "saucy" book mixed in with them.

"Hmm, the somatic components of some of these spells seem quite...unique," says Ezekiel. "Though I'll omit I'm not familiar with divine magic, which I assume these spells are given the amount of enthusiastic invoking the gods."

Knowledge (arcana): 20
Knowledge (planes): 20
Spellcraft: 29
(last roll hit by accident).

Kaze (JonS) HP 42/45 AC 19/Touch & Flat Footed AC 14/ CMD: 18/ CMB: 6/ Grapple: 7 
Friday October 4th, 2024 6:01:50 PM
Until the vines are all in place, Kaze will continue singing, interspersed with questions to Colt, "How did all of you meet, and why out here?"

Siolo (Joe) - AC 15/13/13 ; HP 28/28 , NL 0  d20=4 ;
Friday October 4th, 2024 9:43:44 PM
Siolo gives Yofiel a thumbs up and begins looking through the documents on the desk and tries to put them in a chronological order.

((Perception 4+12=16))

Dapple [AC 18; HP 28/28] (Kathy) 
Saturday October 5th, 2024 1:13:21 PM
"Sure," Dapple tells Einar, scooting over to give him room. "Thanks," she adds when he hands her the water.

"This is a nice place."

Colt Human Rogue (Tim) AC 18 T 14 FF 14 HP 50/50 CMD 20 
Saturday October 5th, 2024 3:39:00 PM
When Kaze asks about how everyone met, Colt laughs. "You make it sound like we had some kind of plan. It was all a big accident.
I was just looking for someplace new and trying to get by. I hired on with a caravan as a water and fetch boy. I didn't know it was going to Cloudhaven, or what or where Cloudhaven was. The trip was bad. The jungle's fierce, and just nasty. It's got the big dinos, poisonous bugs, poisonous plants. When we got to Cloudhaven, I met Grimelda. You might have seen her around. The rat-folk lady. She wrangled the dinos that drove the elevator. They were big but gentle kinda like cows. Stay out of their way and you're fine. I think she liked Foggy, even though he would bark and chase her rats at first. She's good with animals and I like animals. She was nice to us and we stayed when the caravan left. We moved into the loft above the stock-shed. After a while Foggy made peace with the rodents. I kept quiet and out of sight after that. Some of the townsfolk didn't trust a youngster all on their own; thought I might be a thief or something.

I never got Ezekiel's story at all. You know what talking with him is like.

Yofiel came on the last caravan before the attack. Her family were traders.

Dapple'd been around a while. So had Grim.

Siolo showed up after the attack.

Anyway, Cloudhaven was small before the dino attack, but you could still kind of keep to yourself. After the attack, -- you've seen it. Everyone knows everyone, and everyone's got something to do, or some special skill, or's learning one. So of course we all met. Zeke, and Dapple and Yofiel, they became heroes of the town. Rothlorian might have been the best fighter -- he was a big-time caravan guard, but he was running the town and couldn't go out and explore and see what else we could use on the plateau-top. So Yofiel, and Dapple and Zeke and Grim, and a couple others did that. They fought to defend the town a couple times, and helped fix stuff, and went looking around the plateau to see if there was any food or plants we could use.

I kind of got involved when they were out too long. People were worried they got lost or killed. Even if they were alive, they'd probably run out of food. So Rothlorian said I could go looking for them. I was worried about Dapple. She's the first one I met, and she healed my leg after the attack. I've been tagging along with them ever since. Yofiel told me about the League of Adventurers, like I might be a hero too."

Falkwyn (Steven P) HP 37/37; AC 16/15/16; CMD 22; Male Elf Ranger 3/Wiz 2; Perception +8  d20+8=25 ;
Sunday October 6th, 2024 6:24:27 PM
Falkwyn finds his way into the cottage as well, taking in the furnishing, and is delighted to hear Yofiel ask the question he had want to...I'm already enough of a social outsider here. No need to draw more attention to it.

But to his chagrin, as the elven ranger begins to peruse the bookshelves and table tops...

(Perception = 25)

Falkwyn listens to the details of the group's gathering, and grins to himself. "That's QUITE the tale. Bravo. Well told, and frankly, well played by all of you. Very resourseful. Running into you all is starting to look quite a fortunate spot for me."

Yofiel (Kim McCoy), female elf bard 5th AC 16/16/14 HP: 33/33 
Sunday October 6th, 2024 9:51:50 PM

Yofiel looks up from the book. "Ah. So, you think you might want to join us as we search for Master Waelius, Falkwyn? If so, that would grant us a wealth of rangers, since Kaze also is. Couldn't hurt in a jungle setting. And a bit of a wizardly skill, yourself, to boot?"

She smiles, then returns to her book.

Falkwyn (Steven P) HP 37/37; AC 16/15/16; CMD 22; Male Elf Ranger 3/Wiz 2; Perception +8 
Monday October 7th, 2024 9:38:51 AM
Falkwyn turns and nods, "I would never presume to be invited in your group's endeavors, but yes, I was planning to offer my services."

"I do have bit of arcane skill, which can indeed be handy." The archer chuckles, "To be honest, at first, it started out as something just to keep my parents happy. I never guessed it would turn out to be something I actually had talent working."

The elf shrugs, "As you say, in this sort of environment having more than one ranger will probably be helpful. " A pause, then, "As well as a druid, obviously..."

The Outpost - DM Jess- Maps and documents  
Monday October 7th, 2024 9:50:35 AM
The books that Yofiel scans contains information about the various magical properties of plants from the different regions of Wold. Two of the three have a focus on alchemy and include some deep theoretical musings about the arcane saturation of plants in certain areas--particularly those where the nobel races are less populous. There are some marginal notations, written in a cramped hand, but the language is indecipherable to you. Linguists check DC 23 Highlight to display spoiler: {The notes seem to be written in a language of Master Waelius’s own creation. It would take some time for someone trained in linguistics to develop a key and begin translation.}

Ezekiel observes that some of the magic in these books and scrolls seems a bit unorthodox.

Siolo looks through the papers. Like the rest of the room, they are a mess, sheets of parchment and various writing implements scattered across the desk. One piece of paper catches his eye because part of it seems to be torn away. The paper beneath bears a slight indent, but it is too faint for him to make out what was written on the page above just by looking at it.

Falkwyn also helps the group look through Master Waelius’s books. He finds a book that at first glance seems to be a book of alchemy, but upon closer inspection is a cookbook. It is shelved between a tome on the illusions of the fey and what appears to be a tale of a pirate prince. Yofiel asks if he is planning to join them. He says he'd be interested and he tells her a bit about his skills.

The vines in place, Kaze and Colt enjoy a late afternoon rest. Kaze asks Colt how the group ended up adventuring together and Colt tells their story.

Dapple and Einar also relax, enjoying the cool and refreshing water and the relative tranquility of the place.


Dapple [AC 18; HP 28/28] (Kathy) 
Monday October 7th, 2024 2:00:48 PM
Dapple continues to sit and relax. She closes her eyes and inhales deeply, taking in the scents of the forest around her.

Falkwyn (Steven P) HP 37/37; AC 16/15/16; CMD 22; Male Elf Ranger 3/Wiz 2; Perception +8 
Monday October 7th, 2024 4:23:01 PM
Falkwyn reaches out for the tome on the illusions of the fey... pauses... then reaches instead for the libram on cooking, before pausing and then turning curiously back to glance around the room.

The elf puts his hands on his hips for a moment, looking around, and then raises one hand up to chest level and softly calling out the incantation "Deprehendere Magia".

The common person might not notice any real change, but to the experienced eye, there's a slight flare of blue arcane energy in Falkwyn's eyes as his Detect Magic spell comes into focus.

Siolo (Joe) - AC 15/13/13 ; HP 28/28 , NL 0 
Monday October 7th, 2024 8:01:29 PM
Siolo sits at the desk and carefully rifles through the papers. One catches his eye as part of the paper is missing. He then notices that the paper below does have some faint bit of indention.

A thought occurs to him and he suddenly begins looking all over the desk. He grabs a piece of precisely shaped coal and a blank scrap of paper. Laying the scrap gently over the bottom paper, he then begins lightly coloring the scrap completely with the coal.

Kaze (JonS) HP 42/45 AC 19/Touch & Flat Footed AC 14/ CMD: 18/ CMB: 6/ Grapple: 7 
Monday October 7th, 2024 9:19:05 PM
OOC: Anyone else have the issue where you get logged out of the Wold without asking, or doing it yourself? Seems to be happening to me more and more

Kaze gets a wistful look on his face and he pulls out his WLA badge. "When I was younger, my older brother and my father got into an argument, over a female. My father didn't want my brother to marry her. My brother was in love, and didn't listen. A few seasons ago a courier found us as we were settling in to our spring hunting grounds. I took the package he had. It was my brothers favorite cloak, wrapped around a few belongings and this badge." Kaze looks up through the trees to the sky. "By that time, the winds were already talking to me, leading me where I was needed. I was only in camp to swap herbs and pelts for stuff Patches and I needed. I followed in my borther's footsteps and joined the WLA, a year ago, the winds spoke to me. It took me that long to get here. Like Grim, there's a reason I'm here, just don't know why yet. I'm glad I met all of you, it makes me journey more fulfilling." Colt notices a few tears drop, and then Kaze smiles, "Well, now that I've ruined the mood, lets go see what trouble our friends have gotten themselves into. The vines are happy for the moment."


Yofiel (Kim McCoy), female elf bard 5th AC 16/16/14 HP: 33/33 
Monday October 7th, 2024 11:18:37 PM

Yofiel listens to Falkwyn. "Your parents are fond of magic. Possibly elves, right?" she teases.

"Oh, indeed," she replies to his last comment. "We are fortunate to have Siolo with us. He is developing serious druidic powers."
After finding a third marginal notation in a language she does not know, Yofiel goes to a clean page in her bound journal, returns to the first instance, copies what is written in the known language, then looks carefully over the scribbled foreign note, and replicates it as well as she might. On to the second note, and third, each time carefully transcribing. Most of the time she is fast-reading, as her father taught her, sweeping her hand over the text without touching the page as a guide for her eyes to follow, catching two to five lines at a time - usually about three or a nudge more. For each additional note, she pauses as described.

"Patterns, Yofi, patterns. Catch the tempos, the rhythms, the structure of the composition." Her father's voice is in her head. Yet she quietly says the words aloud. "Learn the author's style. Capture the writer's voice as reflected in the written word. When time is short, then fast-read. When it is shorter, then sweep-read." She accelerates, scanning the upper half or third of a full page in one sweep, then the middle third or second half.

The elf reads the opening two to five pages less rapidly. That is polite. It is a time to allow the writer to introduce himself, or herself. What forecast for the bulk of the book will those first few pages provide her?
Once she wades through that tome, she shows what she transcribed to Siolo and Falkwyn. "Look at this. Let me know if you come across anything in this writing style. Does anyone recognize it?" Besides her journal, she shows two samples from the book. "Siolo - you might like these, but let's save that for later. We have much to cover. Too bad Marest is not with us. She understands the relationships between alchemy and plants fairly well."

"Should we take a gander at those two ancient scrolls? Or should someone fetch Dapple to give us a touch of luck before we try that?"

"What are you doing with the coal, Siolo?"
================
Linguistics: 18 [I rolled that earlier before posting. However, at Steven P's request, I repaired one word he asked to have edited. In so doing, I lost the actual roll. It wasn't good enough, anyway.]

Einar (StevenVdB) - HP68/68 - AC19/13/16 - CMD 21 
Tuesday October 8th, 2024 3:59:10 AM
Einar has been lost in thoughts. The refreshing water, the calmness around him and the enjoyable silence in which both Dapple and Einar relax. Just sitting there in good company makes Einar smile. It seems all is as it was meant to be. He finally found his place. One day he will uncover what happened to Selene and sure one day he will uncover who set fire to is father's smithy and framed Einar for it... but for now, he is where he is supposed to be. In good company...

He looks at Dapple and quickly realizes there's more to her than meets the eye...

"... " Einar thought to say something but then decides to just enjoy the silence.

The Outpost - DM Jess- Maps and documents  
Tuesday October 8th, 2024 8:58:50 AM
Yofiel copies down the notations in the journal, but is unable to decipher them. Perhaps with more time and study she can begin to develop an understanding of it. She quickly reads through the texts and shows her notes to Falkwyn and Siolo, asking them to keep an eye out for notes written in this language. She also suggests asking Dapple for her input about the divine magic Ezekiel was inspecting.

Siolo, discovering an imprint on one of the pages of writing, using a piece of charcoal to help to make the writing more legible. The note is written in a language you are not familiar with--except for the notes that Yofiel just showed you. But there is one word, underlined twice, that you do recognize: “Rattledam.”

Falkwyn casts Detect Magic on the room. You sense magical auras around a number of the books, including a book of fey illusions, the pirate adventure story you had passed over, as well as the history of the Taur Islands. You can make a Knowledge (Arcana) check to see if you can determine the school of magic.

Calbark clears his throat from where he is standing, while you investigate the room. “Almost time for sundown and dinner,” he says. “If there’s more of interest to you here, we can return in the morning.”

Kaze tells Colt about how he came to be an adventurer.

Dapple and Einar continue to relax in comfortable silence. The sound of the stream is soothing, and in the distance, you hear the cries of birds and monkeys in the jungle outside the compound.

Yofiel (Kim McCoy), female elf bard 5th AC 16/16/14 HP: 33/33 
Tuesday October 8th, 2024 10:01:25 AM

Since she just asked Siolo about what he was doing with the piece of coal on the paper, Yofiel is excited to see the writing his clever action revealed. "Same script, same language. Not that there was much doubt, but Waelius definitely wrote what was impressed on that paper. Huh. Rattledam?"

Respecting their host's recommendation, Yofiel takes a moment to tear long strips from one of the loose pieces of paper she has, and uses each one to place between pages at the top of each book one end, and fold the remainder of the strip down so that it can be seen on the outer spine of the work, then places each book right back in the place from which she took it down from the shelf, or stack. She offers to do the same for the other books people have looked through.

"Do you suppose it would be all right were I to take this one book to read this evening, Calbark? It's about a pony and his boy. Or a boy and his pony. I shall take close care to see it is not damaged in any way, and return it in the morning. It may not help us figure out the puzzle of where the Master has gone, but it is sweet that he fancies such a book as this." Whether the half orc grants or denies permission, she will accept his decision.

"All right, let's go, friends!"

Knowledge, geography: d20+15=34 [Rattledam] - Will leave it to the DM to disclose what the bard may know of this [Sorry, lost roll again due to another editing fix from an earlier post]

Ezekiel (BrianW) - AC 17/13/14; HP 38/38 
Tuesday October 8th, 2024 11:56:08 AM
"Hey Dapple, can you understand what type of divine magic this is?" asks Ezekiel as he shows her own of the saucy books. "This incatations seem quite different from what I've seen you do. Is this more of a Flower cleric thing?"

Dapple [AC 18; HP 28/28] (Kathy) 
Tuesday October 8th, 2024 3:15:16 PM
Dapple glances at the book and giggles. "These aren't incantations," she explains. "This book is just for entertainment."

Falkwyn (Steven P) HP 37/37; AC 16/15/16; CMD 22; Male Elf Ranger 3/Wiz 2; Perception +8 
Tuesday October 8th, 2024 4:18:34 PM
The elven mage arches an eyebrow when the magic present in the books is revealed, and he says quietly, almost reverently, "Three of these tomes have an arcane ambience... an aura. We should definitely inspect them closely as well." Falkwyn says, just before Calbark declares they should call it a day, or at least stop for dinner.

Setting a hand on the book about pirates, Falkwyn asks,"Might I also request permission to peruse one of these books this evening? As much to relax before sleeping as to investigate... obviously, only should you allow it, as well."

No sense in angering our hosts he thinks, though he himself is intrigued by the enchanted tome concerning swashbucklers... and perchance... treasure maps? The connection to my own is probably too much to hope for, but still...

Falkwyn (Steven P) HP 37/37; AC 16/15/16; CMD 22; Male Elf Ranger 3/Wiz 2; Perception +8 
Tuesday October 8th, 2024 4:20:18 PM
(OOC: *when the magic present") *sigh*

Kaze (JonS) HP 42/45 AC 19/Touch & Flat Footed AC 14/ CMD: 18/ CMB: 6/ Grapple: 7 
Tuesday October 8th, 2024 8:34:01 PM
Kaze wanders around with Colt, and finally hears the excited voices of his other friends. Following them, he finds them in a well living place. Looking in he'll ask, "So you found books and papers. Anything we should know about yet or still gathering intel?"

Falkwyn (Steven P) HP 37/37; AC 16/15/16; CMD 22; Male Elf Ranger 3/Wiz 2; Perception +8 
Tuesday October 8th, 2024 8:52:44 PM
"Still gathering, I think, but with some progress. These three books are magical", Falkwyn motions to each, ...and the others have quite cleverly discovered an encoded series of messages. "

The elf shrugs and grins at the other ranger, "So, progress."

Siolo (Joe) - AC 15/13/13 ; HP 28/28 , NL 0 
Wednesday October 9th, 2024 1:03:52 AM
Siolo holds up the coal colored paper to Yofiel. "More of the unknown language, and it sounds like Rattledam doesn't mean anything to you either, huh?" The half-elf's face furrowed in thought. "It is a lead at least. Maybe we should ask our hosts if it means anything to them?"

Yofiel (Kim McCoy), female elf bard 5th AC 16/16/14 HP: 33/33 
Wednesday October 9th, 2024 3:23:56 AM

"No, I can't say it means nothing. It's in a grassy place. Sure, Siolo, let's ask them!"

Einar (StevenVdB) - HP68/68 - AC19/13/16 - CMD 21 
Wednesday October 9th, 2024 3:53:48 AM
Einar joins the others as they seem to leave the dusty books behind. He's always been a man of the action so books never were his forte.

"Do we know more yet?" he asks the wiser ones in the group.


Ezekiel (BrianW) - AC 17/13/14; HP 38/38 
Wednesday October 9th, 2024 8:17:41 AM
"Oh, it's like that biography about the boy wizard going to that magic school," says Ezekiel. "Warthogs, was that it?"

Stew's up! - DM Jess- Maps and documents  
Wednesday October 9th, 2024 9:00:48 AM
Yofiel observes that the writing and language of the note that Siolo uncovered is almost certainly written by the same hand that left the notations in the books. Siolo doesn’t know anything about Rattledam, but Yofiel recalls hearing stories of it, an isolated and unmapped grass desert with a harsh environment. There are a few small towns, all founded by monks, where artists thrive. If Master Waelius was in search of a rare manuscript, it is possible that he believed it to be tucked away in the monastery there.

Ezekiel shares some smut with Dapple, asking her about the divine magic. She explains to him that the book is more for entertainment than study. He asks if it is like the story of a boy wizard that he is familiar with. From the glance you got of it, Dapple, the book seems a bit more… mature than that.

Falkwyn tells the others that he has detected a magical aura around some of the books. He also asks if he can borrow a book.

Calbark shifts a bit uncomfortably at the request to borrow books. “If they were my books to lend, I would do so gladly,” he says. “But they aren’t and Master Waelius can be more fearsome than a dragon with its hoard when it comes to his books. Better wait until he’s returned.” He gives Falkwyn and Yofiel an apologetic look and runs a hand over his hair.

Kaze and Einar ask the others what they have discovered.

Gwenestri calls across the compound that dinner is ready and Calbark heads to the dining area where you ate earlier. He and Gwenestri portion out some of the stew that Calbark and Yofiel prepared. Once everyone is seated and eating, Gwenestri turns to Falkwyn. “I do believe you owe us the story of how you ended up here,” she says with a smile.


Ezekiel (BrianW) - AC 17/13/14; HP 38/38 
Wednesday October 9th, 2024 11:39:17 AM
"We walked here," says Ezekiel. "We left Cloudhaven, walked for a bit, and now we are here."

Colt Human Rogue (Tim) AC 18 T 14 FF 14 HP 50/50 CMD 20 
Wednesday October 9th, 2024 12:35:24 PM
"Pretty sure she's asking Falkwyn." Colt dips his head as he raises his next spoonful of stew to his mouth.



Dapple [AC 18; HP 28/28] (Kathy) 
Wednesday October 9th, 2024 2:43:51 PM
"Something like that," Dapple hands the book back to Ezekiel. Truth be told, she's not sure which book about which apprentice wizard getting into scrapes and adventures he's talking about--there are so many. It doesn't really matter, though.

Falkwyn (Steven P) HP 37/37; AC 16/15/16; CMD 22; Male Elf Ranger 3/Wiz 2; Perception +8 
Wednesday October 9th, 2024 5:53:22 PM
Falkwyn gives a nod of acceptance when Calbark politely denies the book request.

On his way to the dining area, the elven ranger gives a look up to the sky, glancing this way and that, and then gives a short, melodic whistle, Come to me. he calls out with his emotions.

Falkwyn then raises his left forearm to shoulder height, and within moments a large hawk soars into sight overhead, calls out once, and then descends. The bird, with its long tail and short rounded wings, is an excellent example of its breed, and it comes to rest on the ranger's arm. The mage gives the bird a smile and a nod. "Ah, there you are, Lady. My pretty bird. Been hunting, yes?"

The elven archer simply continues to the eating area, almost as if nothing interesting had just taken place. Once inside, however, Falkwyn notices the looks his companion garners and he says, "Ah yes. Let me introduce you all to Ebrath, my familiar. She's a very clever girl."

When they are all seated, the elf returns Gwenestri's smile and nods. "My tale? Yes, of course."

"It's actually all rather simple, if a bit long, and slightly embarrassing. But for the sake of brevity and reducing boredom, I'll attempt to sum it up as best I can. After years of working as a guide and ranger, I was apprenticed to a mage by the name of Khaerodlaf. He was a good, if curmudgeonly mentor, and things went well for a while. However, Khaerodlaf was married to a woman named Mirada, who developed a rather...awkward fascination with me. Being human, she was intrigued by my ...elven-ness, and things became uncomfortable for both myself and the couple."

"Not intending to be considered a homewrecker, valid or not, I decided to leave my apprenticeship, right around the time the Khaero decided it was time to have me gone." Falkwyn shrugs and exhales. "To that end, my master entrusted me with a map of this area... not this specific area exactly, but close."

"He said, 'This map will lead you to a land left behind by the ages to uncover a treasure lost to time.' I pressed him for more information about the nature of the treasure, and he only responded with something along the lines of 'I cannot tell you. Part of your test is to make that discovery for yourself.'"

Falkwyn pauses and takes a long sip from whatever tankard was offered him. "After that? Traveling with a caravan for a while and then striking off with some hunters, I eventually found my way into the jungle, with little more for direction than that I should probably start out by finding this "Cloudhaven" place, and then use the map from there, and really I can't make heads or tails of it and..."

A pause, and then Falkwyn blinks rapidly. "OH, the map. Right. I should show you..."

With that, the elven explorer tugs his backpack over and sets it in front of him, unties the sinches, and says quietly, "Treasure Map". Extending his hand, he immediately draws the rolled-up parchment out, seemingly without rummaging at all.

Falkwyn (Steven P) HP 37/37; AC 16/15/16; CMD 22; Male Elf Ranger 3/Wiz 2; Perception +8 
Wednesday October 9th, 2024 5:56:23 PM
(OOC: Edit needed. "Cannot not tell you." was unintentional. Drop the not, please? * sigh *)
---------
[Fixed it. -Kim]

Colt Human Rogue (Tim) AC 18 T 14 FF 14 HP 50/50 CMD 20 
Wednesday October 9th, 2024 6:38:45 PM
Colt rises out of his chair and leans across the table to see the map.

Kaze (JonS) HP 42/45 AC 19/Touch & Flat Footed AC 14/ CMD: 18/ CMB: 6/ Grapple: 7 
Wednesday October 9th, 2024 10:59:38 PM
Kaze stands up on his chair to see this magical map as well, wishing he'd had one of his own

Siolo (Joe) - AC 15/13/13 ; HP 28/28 , NL 0  d20=5 ;
Thursday October 10th, 2024 8:16:59 AM
After Falkwyn's tale, while his other companions look over the map, Siolo tries to get Ebrath's attention with some mouth sounds and some nibbles.

(( Wild Empathy 5+8=13))

He then says an incantation and rubs his throat.

((Cast Speak with Animals))

Siolo begins screeching and sqawking with Ebrath.

"It is nice to meet you Ebrath, great hunter. How long have you been hunting with Falkwyn?"

Stew's up! - DM Jess- Maps and documents  
Thursday October 10th, 2024 9:09:12 AM

Dapple isn’t sure which book Ezekiel is referencing, but plays along.

Ezekiel explains that he arrived to the outpost by walking.

Colt suggests that Gwenestri’s question was actually directed a Falkwyn.

Falkwyn introduces the group to Ebrath, his hawk familiar. He then tells the story of how he came into possession of his treasure map and began his journey in search of Cloudhaven.

Colt and Kaze check out the treasure map.

Siolo casts speak with animals and begins talking with Ebrath. “Many moons now,” she responds. “He is a good two-legs, but he needs some looking after, as most of you do.”

Calbark glances over the map. “I know these woods as well as any aside from Lady Selara, and you seem to have gotten yourself good and lost, friend. Nothing on this map aligns with what I know of these parts.” He furrows his brow. “Perhaps you’d have better luck looking to the south. Can’t rightly say.”

The conversation continues. When it's time to get some rest, the host apologize that there is not enough room in the dormitory to house you all, but they invite you to make yourself comfortable wherever you'd like to bed down.

Ezekiel (BrianW) - AC 17/13/14; HP 38/38 
Thursday October 10th, 2024 10:17:55 AM
"I think you broke our druid," says Ezekiel to Falkwyn. "He doesn't normally talk like this."

Siolo (Joe) - AC 15/13/13 ; HP 28/28 , NL 0 
Thursday October 10th, 2024 6:49:22 PM
Siolo continues his conversation with Ebrath. "Is he a deceptive two-legs?"

After getting an answer to that, he changes the subject.

"If you would be willing, great hunter, could I hunt with you sometime soon? I have learned how to change my form, but am nowhere near your skills. Would you be willing to teach me?"

Falkwyn (Steven P) HP 37/37; AC 16/15/16; CMD 22; Male Elf Ranger 3/Wiz 2; Perception +8 
Thursday October 10th, 2024 7:26:30 PM
Bemused, Falkwyn takes in the discussion between his familiar and Siolo and Ebrath, and comments to Ezekiel, "Lady Ebrath can be quite enchanting...so it's really Her fault, I suppose. Though, to be fair, I have yet to have a full conversation with her, as he is, We have yet to accomplish that task yet, since we were linked."

To Siolo he adds with a smile, "Not to interrupt, as you are more than welcome to speak with my familiar, but what exactly are you saying? I really need to learn that spell..."

Kaze (JonS) HP 42/45 AC 19/Touch & Flat Footed AC 14/ CMD: 18/ CMB: 6/ Grapple: 7 
Thursday October 10th, 2024 7:52:03 PM
Since the vines seem to like him, Kaze will take his blanket and go sleep among them so he can see the sky

Dapple [AC 18; HP 28/28] (Kathy) 
Thursday October 10th, 2024 10:09:47 PM
Dapple finds a place somewhere near the fire to curl up and sleep. She's not worried about finding space--she doesn't take up much room.

Yofiel (Kim McCoy), female elf bard 5th AC 16/16/14 HP: 33/33 
Friday October 11th, 2024 1:41:03 AM

[I worked straight for two companies 9:30am Tues - 2:15pm Wed, drove home and lay down to sleep at 3pm, woke up at 7:25 Thu morning, then had more stuff to do. Thus, I missed a post. Will make up for it.]

Lightly disappointed but unsurprised, Yofiel replies to Calbark, "Understandable."

"Oh!" she exclaims as a hawk lands on Falkwyn's arm. In elvish she greets Ebrath. She then turns away from the group for a moment as Siolo begins his spell, and casts her own - comprehend languages, and boldly eavesdrops on the conversation between the druid and the hawk. She looks forward to Ebrath's response, and to Siolo's interpretation.

The redhead is happy to help in the kitchen as before, and enjoys the fare with friends old and new.

"Well, there must be some room in the dormitory," Yofiel posits. "I'll try that out - unless... yes, I'll try that out."

Yofiel (Kim McCoy), female elf bard 5th AC 16/16/14 HP: 33/33  d20+15=33 ; d20+14=21 ;
Friday October 11th, 2024 2:04:08 AM

As is her custom, though, before going to sleep, the bard first writes in her journal with notes and sketches, then spends some time in silent devotion and prayer to some of the key members of the heavenlies. Whom she focuses upon varies from night to night. Tonight she addresses Maab, for they are surrounded by flora and fauna of the natural Wold. She is pleased there is another elf among them, along with Siolo, who is half-elf. To Maab she also intercedes for the welfare of Gwen's Aunt Selara. She solicits Flower on behalf of Gwenestri, who has a strong affection for Calbark.

Yofiel petitions Domi for faith and steadfast courage, to shake off enough fear when it may arise to respond with wisdom instead of panic, and help others toward that goal.

Yet they also are surrounded by an unholy and unnatural combination of flora and fauna. Thus to the chief of the gods she prays, "Lord Alemi, it is said you have power to remove evil influences from the lands of The Wold and cure corrupted creatures and plants of the influence of evil outsiders. We face that situation now, with dinosaurs' and pterosaurs' own flesh and sinew corrupted by vines, leaves, and wood where bones might be, plus oddly enhanced intellect and unusual powers. One of them ran its body right through my own, stunning me. I do not mean it ran me over. Its body interpenetrated my own. Teach us how to deal with this. Guide us in your wisdom - and grant us knowledge to serve as your instruments in this matter."

To Wardd, she says, "Thank you Wardd that your cleric, Dapple, is with us. I love that halfling, I do."

She then prays for each member of the group by name, asking for blessings for them, and the ability to work well together. And for each member of this sweet little outpost, including again Lady Selara.

=======

About the middle of the night, around 1am-2am, she rises, walks over to the thorny wall, climbs the ladder, and, finding a way to look through gaps toward the top of the wall, so as not to silhouette herself, yet still see out, she observes and listens to what she might outside this well-hidden fortress. Her bow is strung, an arrow is nocked, and her quiver is over her shoulder. Though she does not anticipate any particular issues, she senses an impulse to watch. If nothing else, she will acquaint herself with the local night sounds.

============
Knowledge, nature: 33
Perception: 21

Einar (StevenVdB) - HP68/68 - AC19/13/16 - CMD 21 
Friday October 11th, 2024 4:16:18 AM
OOC - sorry for missing posts... I find these phases of RP'ing in the Wold the most difficult for me to stay alert and active. Not that I only like combat posts but right now I don't have a clue what we are supposed to do or find to proceed. I'll try to get more involved but I just wanted to let you know that's why I'm missing posts. Sorry)

Einar listens to all conversations. He likes the tiny hawk Ebrath... birds are honest... "Must be cool to being able to talk to birds..., Einar thinks as he sees Siolo talking to it.

Apart from the water hauling not much was done today... Einar is restless because of it. The place looks safe enough... sure... but out there there... and what if they attack this place?

When everyone is ready to go to bed Einar asks : "Is there any guard duty? "

Still, if there isn't Einar will go to bed late and will watch the jungle out there from the higher levels of this outpost.

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