Beatrix and Tinkerbell (Mitch) HP 50/76 AC 20/16/18 CMD 22 Tinkerbell HP 32/32 AC 23/15/21 d20=16 ; d20+14=34 ; d8=8 ; d8=5 ; d8=2 ; Friday November 29th, 2024 9:19:14 AM
Beatrix calls for the trolls surrender. "This fight is over, surrender and live, refuse and die." Should she refuse Beatrix will run her through (to close to charge, rolled a crit anyway. 39 damage)
Makis the Lucky (AC 22/13/19, CMD 16. HP 69/78+10 temps) (Harry) d20+12=27 ; d20+10=27 ; d8=3 ; Friday November 29th, 2024 11:45:12 AM
Will save 27 so looses 4 hp from his temp hp.
Wanting to end this fight, Makis draws his longbow as he moves a little closer and fires a cold iron arrow at the fleeing troll. 927 to hit for 3 damage.)
___________________________ Spells Cast: Level 1: 4 of 6+1 Level 2: 5 of 6+1 Level 3: 4 of 5+1 Level 4: 3 of 3+1 Level 5: 2 of 2+1
Spells on with durations: Extended Haste from Snark - 18 rounds total Aid with 10 temps from Lantern Archon - 30 rounds Spectral Hand - 9 minutes Barkskin AC +4 Natural Armor - 90 minutes on both Makis and Isaac. See Invisibility - 90 minutes Mage Armor from Snark - 18 hours Threefold Aspect - 24 hours. Currently using Youth Flying Broom - 9 hours Resist Energy Electricity 20 - 90 minutes
Note that there are 3 sleeping trolls from Deep Slumber that will last a total of 9 minutes.
Snark Riverstone (MarkB) AC18(22 agianst giants) T14 F16, CMD 15, HP 78/78 d20+10=11 ; d6+4=7 ; Friday November 29th, 2024 1:47:12 PM
Snark looks at Drayma. "You know, your mother and I are very disappointed in you."
Then he lobs a blob of acid at the troll but somehow manages to miss (rolled a 1.)
DM Bob & Carla - ”In woods on a winter’s eve…”” Friday November 29th, 2024 4:12:44 PM Eadric, Snark, Makis and Beatrix continue to chase Drayma . Combined, their attacks render the troll acolyte unconscious and she falls face first into the snow. Isaac moves over towards Drayma should further support be required. Close observation reveals that some of her wounds are very slowly beginning to heal.
Benni and Urist tend to the freed prisoners and the cleric channels recuperative energy into the huddled group, easing some of their accumulated discomforts.
The former prisoners begin to adjust to their new reality. They stare in wonder at the heroes, and the carnage spread across the encampment.
With Drayma out of commission, her companions in deep slumber, the prisoners freed, and a cold night approaching the Luck Makers must decide on their next course of action.
* Please note, we are now out of timed combat rounds.
Isaac Harker (Justin M) HP88/91 AC22/ T12 / FF19 Friday November 29th, 2024 6:00:12 PM
Isaac looks down at Drayma and then at the others " We're should finish the trolls off . No is going to want to formal charge and imprison trolls" Isaac will volunteer to do the deed if no wants to.
Snark Riverstone (MarkB) AC18(22 agianst giants) T14 F16, CMD 15, HP 78/78 Friday November 29th, 2024 7:55:36 PM
Once we search Drayma's body and maybe stab it again to make sure it doesn't rise, Snark will spread oil over Drayma and use a Tindertwig to set it alight, ensuring an end the troll.
"Yer right Isaac. We got three trolls dreaming their little troll dreams of pulling gnomes apart and roasting dwarves for dinner. I figure if we all crowd around each one, we can put an end to their threat to the good folks of the Wold."
How would our DMs like us to handle this. Do we need to map this all out? Do you want individual coup de grace hits rolled? Do you just want to assume we succeed in this?
Once we are dealing with the prisoners, Snark looks the lot over. He says to them, "I think we're short a few here. Seems like we're looking for four centaurs and about six or seven dwarves. I see one centaur and two dwarves.
"Where's the rest of your lot?"
Eadric Wolfe (Ben V) AC27 T19 FF27 CMD 27 59/83HP Friday November 29th, 2024 9:30:38 PM
Eadric is willing to help take the trolls out, whatever that ends up looking like. Afterwards, he sheathes his rapier and gets to helping any prisoner that looks to be needing assistance.
To the party, he says "Are there multiple encampments? That would explain the missing numbers?
Beatrix and Tinkerbell (Mitch) HP 50/76 AC 20/16/18 CMD 22 Tinkerbell HP 32/32 AC 23/15/21 Saturday November 30th, 2024 8:57:40 AM "If we're missing people we'll need to know why. So we need one alive to question." Beatrix points out. She doesn't participate in the finishing of the trolls. Killing in combat is one thing but it feels weird to have to kill someone helpless, even if she had already killed them in a fight.
Makis the Lucky (AC 22/13/19, CMD 16. HP 69/78+10 temps) (Harry) Saturday November 30th, 2024 4:27:01 PM The frost giant knows of this place. Can we move the survivors to a place of safety where we can keep them warm? It might be that the cave will provide the most shelter and security for the night. I would like to know what secrets it contains anyway. Makis muses. We have found little of value with these trolls yet I suspect they are paid by this frost giant. Hmm. I wonder if we should set an ambush for the frost giant. Questioning him might provide the information we truly need.
Urist (AC25/29 vs giants, HP45of82) (Cayzle) Saturday November 30th, 2024 10:34:03 PM
Urist is happy to help finish off trolls. She follows Snark's advice in this matter.
She thinks the prisoners need to be brought to safety right away.
Makis the Lucky (AC 22/13/19, CMD 16. HP 69/78+10 temps) (Harry) Sunday December 1st, 2024 10:17:49 AM
ooc: What time of day is it now? How long til sunset? And how many days back to the centaur camp? Remember that the nights are cold enough to do damage and by now maybe even the days are...
“Benni” AC 25/11/24 CMD 24. HP 52/ 63 Onesimos (SteveK) Sunday December 1st, 2024 11:54:44 AM
Benni looks about, giving solace to the prisoners, checking to see if any are dwarfs or centaurs to pass along messages from the clan or herd.
He waits for the others to come back before together, with regret of the necessity, dispatching each sleeping troll one at a time. ”Mercy to unrepentant evil is injustice to Good. I hope the lands beyond Gargul’s judgement allows a change.”
“Come my friends, night is falling fast and we have many in our care. Let us see if this Door in the Hill can keep people safe and warm!”
Benni anticipates the Door only leads to the troll’s hideout, and not to something more extensive.
DM Bob and Carla - ”To Watch the Woods Fill Up With Snow” Sunday December 1st, 2024 4:09:54 PM Isaac volunteers to perform the gruesome task of finishing off the sleeping trolls. Snark concurs with the paladin, and searches Drayma’s ruined corpse, afterwards setting it on fire. Eadric has no scruples when it comes to doing his duty, and works alongside the paladin to dispatch the sleeping trolls. Beatrix prefers her opponents to be conscious. The centaur occupies herself with the dilemma of sorting out the survivors and dealing with the mystery of the missing dwarves and centaurs. Makis worries about the frost giant, as well as the safety of the survivors and the security of the encampment. He’s also curious about what’s behind the door at the base of the rock face. He proposes a plan that involves setting a trap for the giant. Urist will help where she is needed. The dwarf is also concerned for the well-being of the now freed prisoners. Onesimos checks to see what is behind the mysterious door in the side of the mountain, once the fate of the sleeping trolls has been resolved.
The two unsuspecting trolls are quickly dispatched by Isaac and Eadric with back-up from Urist. The captives begin claiming their belongings from items bundled and tied to sleds near the rock face. One of the humans and the two dwarves grab axes and rush to help those dealing with the trolls. They tear apart the cages, breaking off the ice and mounding the branches over the trolls. Once the pyres are set alight with the help of Benni’sfire elementals, they tend the fires, adding fuel gathered from the barricades set up around the encampment.
Snark salvages some empty vials off the body of the female troll acolyte, as well as a an amulet, a ring, and 50 GP - before it is added to the small inferno consuming the trolls.
One of the half-elves responds to the questions posed by the greenmage and the white haired fighter. My travelling companions and I were captured on our way to Fort Wayfarer almost three weeks ago. There were no other captives here when we arrived. Later we were joined by these other unfortunates.” The gaunt half-elf gestures in the direction of the other captives. ”We were forbidden speech, but managed to communicate a little. The others are hunters, woodsmen, and farmers captured after us.” The dwarves, understanding giant volunteer that they overheard the trolls discussing someone named ‘Feldor’, who was expected any day in order to collect ‘the slaves’ and escort them to the work camp. The dwarf thought he heard their captors refer to their eventual destination as the Bitterhorn Mountains. They don’t know anything about any other dwarves - he and his brothers were working in the woods felling trees for timber when they were overcome.
If anyone goes to check on the troll left sleeping in the woods, they find nought but his tracks heading away from the encampment. It would be safe to assume that having been awakened he decided to flee as far as possible from the site of his brush with death, and the party will likely never see him again.
Maneuvering the heavy doors open Benni is assaulted by the stench of troll. Once his eyes grow accustomed to the darkness of the cave beyond, he discovers a short passageway leading to a cavernous chamber with alcoves around its perimeter. It is large enough to accommodate quite a few trolls, or possibly a tribe of up to two dozen normal sized individuals.
As is expected at this time of year, it quickly grows dark, and with the disappearance of daylight, the temperature begins to drop and it starts to snow. It won’t be long before all traces of the encounter at the encampment will disappear under a blanket of white.
“Benni” AC 25/11/24 CMD 24. HP 52/ 63 Onesimos (SteveK) Sunday December 1st, 2024 7:16:19 PM
Benni suggests that, despite the smell, tha caves and alcoves will be the best solace to spend the night with so great a group.
He helps to seek valuables by taking his time through each alcove before allowing another group of prisoners to settle down. …….
Perception Take 10. 18 Invisibility Purge 45' shoud be still active for several minutes to explore the cave and alcoves.
................... Active Spells: Shield Other (4/9hrs on Snark); Telepathic Bond (2/90min on Benni, Beatrix, Snark, and Makis); Longstrider (+10' 3/ 60min); Invisibility Purge (2/9min, 45' radius)
Snark Riverstone (MarkB) AC18(22 agianst giants) T14 F16, CMD 15, HP 78/78 Monday December 2nd, 2024 3:08:00 AM
Snark makes sure to check all troll bodies before burning by searching them and with Detect Magic.
Entering the cave he says, "Ugh. I thought they smelled bad on the outside. Before we rest, let's check the area for traps, both outside and and in the Cave of Bad Smells."
Snark will scan the cave and it's alcoves for magic as well. He conjures an Unseen Servant to help him as he searches the cave to make sure it's safe.
He has Continual Flame cast on some items that should provide decent light in the cave. Is there a place to make a fire that won't fill the place with smoke?
Beatrix and Tinkerbell (Mitch) HP 50/76 AC 20/16/18 CMD 22 Tinkerbell HP 32/32 AC 23/15/21 Monday December 2nd, 2024 9:21:24 AM "This is a bit of a dilemma. We should probably track down and rescue the other captives before their captors learn we've taken out the trolls, but those we've already rescued also need escort back to town. In the morning perhaps we try to track down the work camp while the captives stay here? No, then the ones coming to pick them up might arrive while we're gone and not only alert the enemy but possibly harm those we saved. Do we wait here for the pick up perhaps and ambush them?"
Urist (AC25/29 vs giants, HP45of82) (Cayzle) Monday December 2nd, 2024 1:44:48 PM
Urist does no think she could stand waiting around when there are other prisoners at some horrible work camp. "I'm in favor of pressing on."
"These former prisoners can either stay here until we get back, or do their best heading home on their own, as they prefer."
Makis the Lucky (AC 22/13/19, CMD 16. HP 69/78+10 temps) (Harry) Monday December 2nd, 2024 2:03:34 PM
Makis checks out the freed, assessing their physical states and with a few words of encouragement and a few questions their mental state as well. AS he sees them into the cave to get out of the worst of the cold He asks each their name and their story. I know the smell is bad but each night grows colder and you do not have the clothing to survive long exposed. I think must shelter here for one night before we make our way home.
Speaking to the party Makis urges We must see these folks at least to the centaur camps. between us them, were many dangers including frost giants, trolls and winter wolves. If we see them part of the back at least I can arrange for rapid travel to the Bitterhorn Mountains with a Shadow Walk spell.
ooc: Shadow Walk lets us move 50 miles an hour for up tp 9 hours on the edge of the shadow plane. This should allow us to arrive in the general area of the Bitterhorn Mountains but will not let us scout along the way.
Eadric Wolfe (Ben V) AC27 T19 FF27 CMD 27 59/83HP Monday December 2nd, 2024 5:15:21 PM
Eadric thinks that getting these people to safety should be the first priority. He agrees with the idea of bunking in the cave for the night, regardless of how terribly it smells.
DM Bob and Carla - ”A Smelly Cave” Monday December 2nd, 2024 5:58:25 PM
Searching the troll bodies and the cave yields a modest collection of loot. In addition to the troll acolyte’s amulet of natural armour and ring of protection the party collects an additional 2 rings, 1 potion of bull’s strength, and 3000GP. There are some rough furs piled in one of the alcoves, as well as the partial carcasses of what appear to be two four legged animals in another.
Benni suggests the party and freed captives spend the night in the cave. There are no dangers lurking inside - either visible or invisible. Snark conjures an unseen helper and provides some sources of light. There’s evidence that some previous occupant of the cave might have had a fire, and the ceiling overhead is quite far up. No traps are found inside the encampment or inside the cave. To track down other captives or escort those recently released - that is the question plaguing Beatrix’s mind. Urist is in favour of pressing on and let the newly freed folks make their own plans. Makis discovers the naturally slim elves, who had been held the longest are a little underweight, but otherwise healthy. The young Hopi hunter appears to have suffered some wounds, but is mending after the care provided by the heroes. The humans and dwarves seem fine. The freed captives converse in low voices as they sort through their recently recovered belongings. Eadric’s fine with bunking down in the cave for one night.
The gaunt elf speaks up: ”We are aware there may be other captives with a greater claim on you than ours. We have discussed amongst ourselves what to do next. Some of us are for Fort Wayfarer and the others for taking the road south. We need but some hot food in our bellies, and a good night’s rest, and we will be on our way. My friends here,” he pauses and gestures at the dwarves before continuing, ”are concerned about the arrival of the one called Feldor, the Cursed who would make us slaves. We choose to leave tomorrow, keep to the marked roads, and separate into two groups when we reach the crossroads.”
The half elf’s thin mouth turns down, and he wrinkles his nose. ”For tonight, we take shelter in this Cave of Bad Smells.”
Isaac Harker (Justin M) HP88/91 AC22/ T12 / FF19 Monday December 2nd, 2024 6:20:52 PM
Isaac looks over at Snark "Any chance you can get rid of the smell in the cave?" During the night Isaac asks the various captives how the trolls kidnap them if they we're on the road when they were taken or did the trolls attack farm houses.
Snark Riverstone (MarkB) AC18(22 agianst giants) T14 F16, CMD 15, HP 78/78 d20+22=33 ; d20+22=32 ; Monday December 2nd, 2024 8:12:16 PM
Snark looks up at the Paladin. "I wish. Prestidigitation won't do much about the smell, and I didn't bring any room fresheners. I'll see what I can do. You know, a Detect Evil might help. I'd hate to think that any of our new charges fell under some bad influences during their captivity. And maybe make sure there ain't no evil spots in this cave."
To that end, Snark will use Detect Magic on the freed prisoners and their gear as well.
He checks the two rings. Spellcraft 33 and 32 should identify up to CL 18 and 17.
Once that's done, he will use Prestidigitation to clean the furs here so folks can use them without the stink and fleas.
He also checks the door to see if it's sturdy and has a latch. He can use Mending to put things right if needed.
"Hey Bea or Makis - can you have your familiar fly up and check that dark ceiling. We don't need no surprises in the night.
Benni - can you make some magic Flower food for these folks in the morning?"
Snarks own food supplies are meager, but he pulls out some snacks he carries. Nuts and dried fruit mostly, but its more than nothing.
“Benni” AC 25/11/24 CMD 24. HP 52/ 63 Onesimos (SteveK) Tuesday December 3rd, 2024 8:32:51 AM
Benni nods, ”Yes, I can do that and a little more tomorrow. For tonight, can someone make sure the carcasses aren’t centaurs or other intelligent creature? If animal, I can Purify Food and Drink and ensure any stew we have is healthy for all. We also needs to get cold weather clothing from the furs for everyone.”
“For tonight, we definitely need to keep the Door shut and our usual Watch awake.”
Benni plans for a new spell set when he wakes in the morning. For that, he asks among the freed people who is the most experienced.
…… Benni plans on 2 create food and water spells and an Imbue with Spell Ability. He’ll cast both ‘create’ spells, and then Purify so it can all be good for 2 days. Then, the most experienced in the freed group, he will Imbue w Spell ability and as many spells as he can (depending on their level)
Beatrix and Tinkerbell (Mitch) HP 50/76 AC 20/16/18 CMD 22 Tinkerbell HP 32/32 AC 23/15/21 d20+6=24 ; Tuesday December 3rd, 2024 9:09:08 AM
Beatrix will send Tinkerbell to check out the cave (24 perception). She isn't happy about the civilians trying to get home without escort - it's dangerous in the wilds in the wold. It still seems the best option though.
Makis the Lucky (AC 22/13/19, CMD 16. HP 69/78+10 temps) (Harry) Tuesday December 3rd, 2024 9:47:38 AM
Makis creates fresh water in abundance for all and assists Snark with the casting of Prestidigitation to clean and purify enough times to at least reduce the smell. He will cast and maintain dancing lights up near the ceiling until he is confident there is no threat and make sure the cave is completely explored.
Snark, your tiny hut could still be useful if cast near the entrance as it provides concealment in cast we get visitors. If you have it memorized why not cast it?
He sets his familiar up high somewhere to keep watch while he sleeps.
Snark Riverstone (MarkB) AC18(22 agianst giants) T14 F16, CMD 15, HP 78/78 Tuesday December 3rd, 2024 12:20:43 PM
Good thinking Makis!
Snark will gladly create a Tiny Hut. With a radius of 20', it should both cover the doorway and be mostly in the room. Snark will need to remain within the area of the Hut for the duration, but that shouldn't be a problem.
Herb will stand guard while Snark sleeps.
DM Bob and Carla - ”A Smelly Cave” Tuesday December 3rd, 2024 5:01:13 PM
Everyone pitches in to make the cave bearable - maybe even comfortable - with the Luck Makers leading and setting an example.
Various sources of light are used to illuminate the inside of the cave and alcoves, whilst a very thorough search is performed of the area. There really aren’t any threats for the heroes or the 4 half elves, 4 humans, 2 dwarves, and the young centaur to worry about. As they work side by side to make the place they will share for the night habitable, Isaac asks about the method of their capture. The paladin learns the elves were ambushed after straying from the main road to find a camp site. They were surprised by nets cast from the trees above. The human farmers were harvesting the last of their root crops and were simply overwhelmed by their foe. One of the humans identifies the carcasses as the remains of his draft horses. With a sigh, he figures the meat could be used in a stew. The dwarves were selecting trees for harvest, when one of them fell into a pit hidden by tree branches covered with snow. The young Hopi brave admits he got lost while scouting, and sought shelter in the forest where he stepped onto a trap, and was captured by a troll patrol.
The rings are familiar to Snark. It appears most of the trolls had been equipped with +1 rings of protection. When he casts Detect Magic on the recently released captives, one of the female humans raises an arm as if to protect her face and head from a blow, and the gaunt elf asks: ”why are you using magic on us?”. The others look startled and draw back. The blue haired gnome detects no magic on the persons of the 11, and their possessions are all mundane. For most of the evening the ex captives are careful to avoid the greenmage, and avert their eyes if Snark looks in their direction.
Better safe than sorry, Benni says a prayer over the horse meat and renders it safe for consumption. The farmers’ women go to work chopping it up into smaller pieces in preparation for cooking. Trail rations and other contributions are evaluated as they figure out how best to feed the large group.
Beatrix continues to worry about the safety of the ex-captives. Tinkerbell’s reconnaissance reveals a few puffs of fresh air from some cracks in the rock face directly above the spot where Snark believes a fire was once built by earlier occupants of the cave.
There’s no having to melt snow! Makis conjures water that is safe for consumption in sufficient quantities to provide for everyone.
Cleaning the furs gets rid of the worst of the troll smell, and the captives are appreciative, recognizing that they will serve very well as winter clothing for those who do not have sufficient layers to keep out the cold.
Meal preparation underway, thoughts turn to posting watches and planning. The two dwarves volunteer to patrol or take a watch. The gaunt elf - who appears to be the spokesman for the group confirms the 11 will all depart together on the morrow. They will use the sleds to transport whatever they cannot easily carry, and make for the main road with all due haste. Are the Luck Makers sure about heading further into the Grey Divide? about finding the Bitterhorn Mountains? About confronting Feldor, the Cursed?
Snark Riverstone (MarkB) AC18(22 agianst giants) T14 F16, CMD 15, HP 78/78 Tuesday December 3rd, 2024 6:17:42 PM
There may be some misunderstanding about how Detect Magic works. Detect Magic is cast once and lasts for 9 minutes. Then you concentrate on a 60 cone area for 6 second to know if there is any magic there, which is a pretty big area. He's been checking the whole cave area over. Snark would not have cast anything directly on the prisoners.
As the prisoners react to him concentrating in their general direction for 6 seconds, he get a little annoyed.
"Relax, I'm just checking for any lingering enchantments, compulsions of foul magics that could be affecting you folks. I figure that'd be something you'd want to know about. You'll be glad there ain't none.
"I know you folks been through a lot and are kinda on edge, but we just risked our lives to rescue you and are working to keep you safe and warm and fed as best we can. If I'd a' meant you harm, you'd have known it long before now.
"Speaking of keeping you warm, anybody that wants to sleep near the door will be plenty warm. I'm making a magical area to help keep the door hidden through the night." Note that the Tiny Hut has a 20' radius, and he will make it opaque to block any light seeping out around the door.
Snark will suggest building a fire. He will also share what he learns about the magic rings, amulet and potion.
Urist (AC25/29 vs giants, HP45of82) (Cayzle) Tuesday December 3rd, 2024 10:57:16 PM
After the meal, Urist brings out 10 clay mugs and a barrel of ale from her Bag of Holding. SHe starts pouring and offers a toast to freedom.
Urist also has three extra lady dwarf outfits on offer if anyone needs clothes or has skill to adapt them. She has sewing needles too.
And she offers to take a watch, of course, though she is not all that alert.
Isaac Harker (Justin M) HP88/91 AC22/ T12 / FF19 Tuesday December 3rd, 2024 11:36:47 PM
Isaac thinks about the former captives have said "Going after travelers and lost individuals I can understand. But going after people on their farms seems desperate. I think this giant has a forced the trolls to work for him but why are they in such a hurry to get more people?"
Beatrix and Tinkerbell (Mitch) HP 50/76 AC 20/16/18 CMD 22 Tinkerbell HP 32/32 AC 23/15/21 Wednesday December 4th, 2024 9:55:01 AM
Beatrix is instantly interested in the rings of protection. "How many total? They could help ensure the travelers safe passage, and they could sell them to help recover from the event." she suggests. After all time and possessions had been lost, and a few rings the party doesn't need could ensure their safe return home, that they didn't end up in poverty after losing their stuff, and be a windfall to perhaps let them improve their future lives overall.
Makis the Lucky (AC 22/13/19, CMD 16. HP 69/78+10 temps) (Harry) d20+11=17 ; Wednesday December 4th, 2024 11:17:07 AM How long do we expect this trip to the Bitterhorn Mountains to take considering distance, terrain, and weather? Makis ponders as he sketches a map on the floor with chalk. Here is what I recall of the area. he adds as he draws. ooc: Knowledge Geography 17
“Benni” AC 25/11/24 CMD 24. HP 52/ 63 Onesimos (SteveK) Wednesday December 4th, 2024 12:10:12 PM
Benni considers and puts in his 2 coppers. "Feldor the Cursed is the frost giant and it seems the trolls and prisoners were expecting him soon. I think we try to stay here a couple of days and ambush the giant."
"Remember, we don't know where the other dwarves or centaurs were taken; we need to capture him alive so we know where to go next. Walking around blindly in the mountains in winter is not my idea of a good plan!"
Neither can we escort these good people to safety. By the time we did that and returned, Feldor would have seen the destruction and would never return to this camp: we will have lost our best chance to recover the other kidnap victims."
DM Bob and Carla - ”Cold with a chance of frost…” d6=6 Wednesday December 4th, 2024 4:50:08 PM Snark admonishes the jumpy folks for their overreaction to his magical concentration, explaining it is for their own good. Urist provides drinking vessels and the equivalent of a barley sandwich when she taps into her barrel of ale. Her offer of clothing is declined, but the sewing supplies come in useful. Isaac is puzzled by the frost giant’s indiscriminate collecting of ‘workers’ Beatrix suggests giving the troll rings to the freed prisoners Makis and Benni discuss strategy. How best to find the missing dwarves and Hopi? The Bloodwitch is for better understanding the geography of the area. He has only just heard of the Bitterhorn Mountains from the dwarves, who only know that it is located somewhere south in the largely unmapped Grey Divide . Meanwhile, Benni advances the idea of setting a trap for the frost giant, and taking him alive!
Dinner is cobbled together - a sort of goulash cooked over a small fire built in the spot pointed out by Snark. It is washed down with clean, clear water provided by Makis and ale supplied by Urist. The food settles well, thanks to Benni’s intervention. Tired from their travails and sated by their first hot meal in days - if not weeks - the freed prisoners bed down in alcoves or in proximity to the tiny hut. They use their cloaks, blankets, and the salvaged furs as bedding.
The two dwarves accept the watches assigned to them by the Luck Makers. They do not initiate conversation, but are open to answering any questions their watch partner(s) might have. The night is quiet, and made quieter by the heavy fall of snow. Visibility isn’t so good, but the observant can see that all traces of earlier activity in the compound has been obliterated under a thick blanket of snow. There is a slight mounding where some of the barricades delineate the encampment, and a depression beyond, where the frozen river curves through the small valley.
By morning, after everyone has had a good, long, rest, the snow has tapered off to light flurries. It’s cold beyond the relative comfort of the cave and the tiny hut. (Fort Save vs DC 16 (temperature 20deg.F/-7degC) 6 HP non lethal dmg from cold. add +5 bonus for cold weather gear)
Eadric enjoys dinner, thanking everyone for their work. When he wakes in the morning, he says "So, what's the plan now?
Makis the Lucky (AC 22/13/19, CMD 16. HP 69/78+10 temps) (Harry) Wednesday December 4th, 2024 8:35:04 PM You make a good point Benni. Perhaps some divination magic could help?
Urist (AC25/29 vs giants, HP45of82) (Cayzle) Wednesday December 4th, 2024 8:53:58 PM
Urist ponders this weather.
"My fear is that this coldness is not cool. If we left these good folks behind while we continue with our quest, they will perish. If they have to walk home alone, they will perish. My heart says we should escort them all back home now, protecting them from the weather -- and all the other dangers -- with our resources."
Beatrix and Tinkerbell (Mitch) HP 50/76 AC 20/16/18 CMD 22 Tinkerbell HP 32/32 AC 23/15/21 d20+14=19 ; Thursday December 5th, 2024 8:35:01 AM
Beatrix agrees with the Urist's thought, but reluctantly feels they should continue on. "If we take the time to escort them home then our attack here will likely be discovered, leading to the other prisoners either being moved, used as hostages against us, or otherwise endangered." (Fort 19)
“Benni” AC 25/11/24 CMD 24. HP 52/ 63 Onesimos (SteveK) d20+15=21 ; Thursday December 5th, 2024 9:16:10 AM
Benni tells the dwarf that keeps the fourth watch his name, that the Luck Makers are from Heranmar, and shows him his WLA badge before asking any questions. As the watch continues, the occasional companionable silence is broken by questions from the elf. Does he know of the dwarfs at the Heranmar quarry? Has he heard of the dwarfs at Wayfarer? What does he know of the likely lair of the frost giant?
In the morning, Benni casts Divination: "What is the best action for the Luck Makers to ensure the safety of both the newly freed people here and those dwarfs and centaurs still missing which were taken by Feldor the Cursed?"
Pending the answer, the elf blesses his cold weather gear, and makes sure the band of free peoples are as well stocked as he may. He casts 2 create food and water spells, casting purify food and drink on both to give the group 2 days of food. On the experienced elf, he casts Imbue with Spell Ability, then gives him Cure Light Wounds, and Obscuring Mist in case he may need them during the trek. Finally, he provides Endure Elements to the three strongest who are going to be pulling the sledges, so they can ensure the group can get to civilization. And finally, a non-magical blessing on all of them.
"You are together for a common purpose, to return home, alive, which is a practical love. You must depend on each other, trust each other to this goal, and being companions of mutual benefit is another type of Flower's love. And we wish you all good in your welfare, an 'agape' of universal love, with the hope we will see you again."
He turns to his friends, Urist wants to return, Beatrix wants to continue travelling for Feldor, Benni wants to lay a trap. What do the others think? The majority will for the Luck Makers, thinks the cleric.
Makis the Lucky (AC 22/13/19, CMD 16. HP 69/78+10 temps) (Harry) Thursday December 5th, 2024 11:05:20 AM
Makis intends to cast Divination in the morning as well but will wait for the results of Benni's spell before casting his own.
ooc: Also I want to make sure the night passes uneventfully and am hoping to get more info about the area from my previous post with Knowledge Geography
(OOC: “The Bloodwitch is for better understanding the geography of the area. He has only just heard of the Bitterhorn Mountains from the dwarves, who only know that it is located somewhere south in the largely unmapped Grey Divide .” “By morning, after everyone has had a good, long, rest,…” -DM Carla)
Snark Riverstone (MarkB) AC18(22 agianst giants) T14 F16, CMD 15, HP 78/78 Thursday December 5th, 2024 5:22:27 PM "Bea, traipsing off after that Frost Giant? We don't even know where to go."
"Since the troll said the frost giant was coming here, I think we should wait and watch. And maybe set an ambush. I'm sure he won't be alone though."
"I think the prisioners should be safe travelling back if they stick together. Since there been trolls patrolling this area, I don't think much else to worry about out there. There might be a troll running around out there that got away, but he recently got his butt handed to him, so I figure he's gonna think twice about attacking stuff."
Snark will give the centaur a small dagger that has Continual Flame cast on it, in case they need light on the way back. He also hands the centaur his flint and steel to make a fire.
He hands a couple sunrods to the humans along with a couple tinder twigs, instructing them on how to use both.
DM Bob and Carla - ”The hand which strikes also blocks” Thursday December 5th, 2024 5:27:45 PM
The Luck Makers are divided over what to do next: return to relative civilization with the folks heading North? Attempt to locate the place in the Bitterhorn Mountains where the captives were to be delivered? Or ambush Feldor, and the crew coming to collect them?
Eadric is flexible Usist’s heart is with the simple folk Beatrix is torn, but believes their duty is to continue forward Benni would like to set a trap for the frost giant Makis wants to gather as much information as possible Snark figures the freed folk will be okay, and the Luck Makers should focus on setting a trap for Feldor
During his watch Onisimos learns from his companion that the dwarf knows of the mine set-up outside of Heranmar, but that he has no kin there, and actually prefers the deep, dark forests and fresh air that can be found in the lightly populated area at the base of the mountains. He does have kin in Fort Wayfarer and in fact many dwarves live there, since it is a good place to stock up on supplies when prospecting in the The Grey Divide. The dwarf admits that he knows little of where he and the others were destined to go - other than it was somewhere the trolls referred to as the Bitterhorn Mountains - a place he had never heard of. He does volunteer the trolls referred to the captives as ‘slaves’ and ‘workers’, and not as ‘food’ - for which he was thankful.
*****
In the morning the cleric asks for guidance and receives a short, but clear response:
The hand which strikes…also blocks.
The heroes have one less decision to make when the freed folks rise early and make haste to quit the place of their imprisonment. Their belongings restored, outerwear augmented by furs, and survival assured by the cleric’s copious blessings, and the greenmage’s gifts, they depart post-haste dragging two sleds carrying provisions after effusive thanks to the Luck Makers. The Hopi brave is first to break trail for the others, the dwarves bring up in the rear. In a matter of moments they are gone, a snowpacked trail weaving through the encampment, across the frozen river, and into the dark woods.
Urist (AC25/29 vs giants, HP45of82) (Cayzle) Thursday December 5th, 2024 8:50:00 PM
"Well!" says Urist. "I guess that settles that!"
"I suppose that means we're headed for the Bitterhorn Mountains!"
Before departing, Urist casts Shrink Item to put a burning campfire into her inventory.
Isaac Harker (Justin M) HP88/91 AC22/ T12 / FF19 Thursday December 5th, 2024 9:35:48 PM
Isaac looks on as urist tries to pick up a small bunch of buring sticks that was a campfire a moment ago. "Urist please stop before you burn yourself." Isaac decides to start preparing to move out either to trap the giant or investigate the mountains.
Makis the Lucky (AC 22/13/19, CMD 16. HP 69/78+10 temps) (Harry) Thursday December 5th, 2024 10:51:19 PM
Makis is not sure of what to do. We do not know this area and the Mountain range is vast. I fear we have little choice but to wait here for the frost giant. He will cast his own Divination asking If we head to the Bitterhorn Mountains will we find those we seek?
“Benni” AC 25/11/24 CMD 24. HP 52/ 63 Onesimos (SteveK) Friday December 6th, 2024 8:50:54 AM
Benni shares the results of his Divination with the others, completely sure that to block more people from imprisonment and slavery, they need to strike! But where? No one other than the trolls have even mentioned the Bitterhorn Mountains: not even the dwarf who has spent most of his life around the area knows it! "We have to eliminate these slavers, and to do that, we need information on how to get to the Bitterhorn Mountains. If we had a Ranger or Druid, I might agree to follow the old tracks, but our best bet to know is to trap Feldor when he arrives."
"So, any ideas on how to set up this encampment to lure in a frost giant and trap him?" Benni is best at thinking strategically, the tactical plans he looks to his friends.
Beatrix and Tinkerbell (Mitch) HP 50/76 AC 20/16/18 CMD 22 Tinkerbell HP 32/32 AC 23/15/21 Friday December 6th, 2024 9:56:38 AM "Well first we should clean things up so it doesn't look like a battlefield. If it looks abandoned from afar they might notice." Beatrix points out. (remind me - how sheltered is the camp? Is it surrounded by things blocking line of sight or is it easily viewable from afar?)
Snark Riverstone (MarkB) AC18(22 agianst giants) T14 F16, CMD 15, HP 78/78 Friday December 6th, 2024 4:21:52 PM "OK, no matter how much we clean up, the camp is a mess. We beat open the pens and burnt up thier fence. It's pretty clear something bad happened.
"Maybe if we station a couple familiars outside to watch, one of you can let me know when Frosty the Bigman is coming to town with his little entourage. Then I can make an illusory Drayma that can tell Frosty they was attacked. He'll say the attackers were run off and some taken prisoner. They moved all the prisoners into the cave for safe keeping. Then we'll invite ol Frosty in and murder him. Er, I mean fight him. How about that?"
Eadric Wolfe (Ben V) AC27 T19 FF27 CMD 27 59/83HP Friday December 6th, 2024 5:47:31 PM
Eadric nods in agreement with Snark's plan. "If the familiars spot him, the melee combatants can rush to that side of the camp to set up an ambush, as well. Some tidying up woudn't hurt either, even if it can't completely mask what happened here." With that said, he goes to start tidying up however he can.
Isaac Harker (Justin M) HP88/91 AC22/ T12 / FF19 Friday December 6th, 2024 10:32:53 PM
"We could cast some repair spells on the most damaged parts and cast a illusion on the pens. Make it seem like there was an escape attempt that the trolls put down. If we have some sort of disguise we could impersonate the trolls." Isaac points out the least damaged pen and describes the illusion he is thinking about " We could have a bunch of people illusions in then pen tied up with a few that looked rouged up and one of us disguised as a troll guarding them. That might be enough to get them close before we attack."
Urist (AC25/29 vs giants, HP45of82) (Cayzle) Friday December 6th, 2024 11:36:59 PM
"OOH, good ideas, you guys. I can Fabricate some repairs for sure."
Makis the Lucky (AC 22/13/19, CMD 16. HP 69/78+10 temps) (Harry) Sunday December 8th, 2024 6:31:18 PM
Unless Makis' divination provides more specific guidance the bloodwitch reluctantly agrees that their best plan is to wait for the frost giant to show up. He will help clean up the camp as best he can.
DM Bob & Carla - ”Preparations…” Sunday December 8th, 2024 10:36:44 PM
The Luck Makers watch the free-folk strike out for home and begin to discuss the results of Benni’s divination. Makis’ own divination is equally clear. Those you seek toil deep beneath the ice in bitter cold. Your path leads to their discovery”
A plan begins to unfold…send up the familiars as scouts, clean up the encampment, add some illusions, and trick Feldor into getting close enough to be overcome in an ambush and interrogate him for information about the location of the other prisoners.
Beatrix notes that the camp is in a small opening along a bend in the river, and is surrounded by steep terrain and coniferous forest and a fresh overnight snowfall has obscured traces of the previous battle. Anyone approaching the site would be unlikely to notice any changes in it until they were almost upon it. A good place for an ambush.
Urist and Isaac ready their own gear for departure and then set to cleaning up and fabricating what they can to repair the appearance of the encampment.
(OOC: Please identify what actions you take and what spells, if any, you use in preparing for Feldhor or have or readied for his arrival should that transpire. It is still early in the day and you have all had a good nights rest.)
“Benni” AC 25/11/24 CMD 24. HP 52/ 63 Onesimos (SteveK) Monday December 9th, 2024 8:38:23 AM
Having cast (and given) many spells to the refuges, Benni is limited to helping brush away the sledge tracks and footprints to look like the leaving group was only a troll patrol. He plans on staying in one of the cages until the ambush is sprung. He wears some rags left be the refugees to loo like a prisoner himself, shuffling about the cage area.
(He plans on not being locked in, and so he can rush out to attack when the trap is sprung.)
Beatrix and Tinkerbell (Mitch) HP 50/76 AC 20/16/18 CMD 22 Tinkerbell HP 32/32 AC 23/15/21 Monday December 9th, 2024 9:12:14 AM
Unfortunately most of Beatrix's buff spells have durations measured in minutes. With no way of knowing when the enemy will arrive she cannot pre-buff or take position in the air. She will change some spells around (this would have happened in the morning on preparing, but she had a night to consider the terrain and make the changes). She'll also set Tinkerbell somewhere the enemy is likely to pass through so she can alert the party.
Snark Riverstone (MarkB) AC18(22 agianst giants) T14 F16, CMD 15, HP 78/78 d20+14=30 ; Monday December 9th, 2024 4:50:30 PM
Snark sets out his plan.
"Me and Herb will go outside up on that hill above where we are. I'll be in the shape of a bush and Herb, well, hell be a bush too. When one of your familiars see Frosty coming, you give me the signal - like maybe a whistle. Then I'll create an illusion of Drayma coming out of the doorway and he'll address the giant and who ever is with him.
"The rest of you either hide outside if you can, or wait inside until that giant goes in or until I holler for your to come out and attack. We good?
"Anybody wants to be outside disguised as a tree or bush, I got a potion that'll make two of you into a tree or bush." (Herbal concoction of Treeshape, and it can be dismissed as a free action. You can see and hear as normal while in treeshape.)
"Boy I hope this works."
Snark will go up on the hill with his trusty steed Herb. Herb hides to just look like a big bush - Stealth 30 (I assume there is other vegetation there.) When Snark is notified that Feldor is near, he will cast Fly on Herb and drink a potion that turn him into a bush (treeshape).
Eadric Wolfe (Ben V) AC27 T19 FF27 CMD 27 59/83HP Monday December 9th, 2024 5:42:49 PM
Eadric decides to stay inside the cave. He's quick enough to make it to the combat without missing anything - and, though he's fairly stealthy, avoiding any risk on his part of ruining the plan is more of a priority.
Makis the Lucky (AC 22/13/19, CMD 16. HP 69/78+10 temps) (Harry) d20=8 ; d20=6 ; d20+19=21 ; d20+23=37 ; Monday December 9th, 2024 7:22:52 PM
Ellashee receives Roses Temperature Control and then takes up a spot 40' in a tree with good vantage of likely approaches.
Makis dresses warmly and completes his rituals before going outside. He succeeds at his ritual of Grimalkin (DC 20 with a 23) and ritual of Sharing (DC 30 with a 31) Once outside he notes the chill in the air but his warm clothes and natural fortitude prevent any damage from the cold. (save of 12+6+5 = 23 with cold weather gear).
After getting his familiar settled he casts a few buff spells, including asking Snark for an extended Mage Armor using his own rod of Lesser Extend and pearl of power. He also casts Three Fold Aspect, choosing the youth aspect so he can once again lend his belt of Dexterity to Isaac. He will hold off on casting Flying Broom until after lunch but will cast Barkskin on himself. delaying its effects with his ritual of Sharing power.
With breakfast eaten and spells cast Makis makes his way to a tree close enough to Ellashee to be in telepathic communication with his familiar, shift into cat form, and climb up to find a safe perch at least 30' off the ground. The goal is to be close enough to communicate but also cover more directions of approach.
ooc: Stealth Ellashee is 21. Stealth cat-Makis stealth (+8 for being tiny) is 37.
___________________________ Spells Cast: Level 1: 1 of 6+1 Level 2: 1 of 6+1 Level 3: 0 of 5+1 Level 4: 1 of 3+1 Level 5: 0 of 2+1
Spells on with durations: Rose's Temperature Control on Ellashee - 24 hours Barkskin AC +4 Natural Armor - 90 minutes on Makis, but delayed Mage Armor from Snark - 18 hours Threefold Aspect - 24 hours. Currently using Youth
Makis the Lucky (AC 22/13/19, CMD 16. HP 69/78+10 temps) (Harry) Monday December 9th, 2024 7:24:32 PM
oo c: Note that Ellashee has +4 too stealth in forests of should be a 25.
Isaac Harker (Justin M) HP88/91 AC22/ T12 / FF19 d20+1=6 ; d20+8=23 ; Monday December 9th, 2024 7:53:54 PM
Isaac will help repair and hide the worst of the damage by hauling any burnt or destroyed debris into the cave out of sight. He also thinks on his training to help set up the abush. Proffession:Soilder:23 He also thanks Markis for the continued lending of his belt.
DM Bob and Carla - ”Nice looking shrubbery…not too expensive” Monday December 9th, 2024 10:16:15 PM Benni wisely transforms the trail left by the folks when they departed the encampment. He’s ready to play the role of prisoner when the timing is right. Having taken note of the geographical features around the encampment, Beatrix prepares her spells. She sends Tinkerbell aloft to reconnaissance . (Please roll the bat’s Fort Save vs DC 16 (temperature 20deg.F/-7degC) 6 HP non lethal dmg from cold.) Snark outlines a plan, then he and Herb locate a vantage point where they take on the appearance of nice looking shrubbery… Eadric hides inside the cave After sorting out his magics, Makis assumes his cat form and climbs into a tree - within range of Elashee. Isaac does what he can to restore the appearance of the troll encampment and helps Benni reconstruct a dome shaped cage. He then prepares for the ambush
Tinkerbell returns excitedly to squeak a message in Beatrix’s ear while Ellashee simultaneously sends a telepathic image of what she sees to Makis. There are four large beings accompanied by two large four legged beasts making for the encampment. The companions recognize the trolls and wolves, but the other two - larger than the trolls are unknown to them. One of the unknown creatures is dragging what looks like a cage.
Oblivious to the plans of the stealthy Luck Makers the slavers make their way noisily towards the encampment. There is hollering, and the hurling of insults. Those who understand Giant hear: Highlight to display spoiler: {”put your back into it you dumb clod rust for brains!”} followed by the whistle and crack of a whip. A muscular but thin humanoid - large, with grey skin, flaming red hair, and sharpe fangs moves into the clearing. He is muzzled, and harnessed to a sled contraption with a large cage affixed atop. He is followed by a shorter, stocky but still large blue haired humanoid with a misshaped arm.
“Benni” AC 25/11/24 CMD 24. HP 52/ 63 Onesimos (SteveK) d20+8=25 ; d20=14 ; d20+6=23 ; d20+6=12 ; d20+11=20 ; Tuesday December 10th, 2024 7:26:23 AM
Benni shuffles about the cage, trying to pretend to be a starved and scared prisoner. He's not a very good actor, but the cleric reminds himself that people tend to see what they expect to see. 'Just another poor sot picked up by the Ice Trolls and Winter Wolves. That's all.' His thoughts are fervent enough to be a prayer.
He uses his time to study the arrivals, trying to identify the gray-skinned red-haired humanoid.
Beatrix and Tinkerbell (Mitch) HP 50/76 AC 20/16/18 CMD 22 Tinkerbell HP 32/32 AC 23/15/21 d20=19 ; d20=10 ; Tuesday December 10th, 2024 8:27:59 AM
Beatrix passes on the message that the enemy is coming (22 fort for bat). She hides as best she can (14 stealth) and casts fly on herself while the enemy gets closer.
Snark Riverstone (MarkB) AC18(22 agianst giants) T14 F16, CMD 15, HP 78/78 Tuesday December 10th, 2024 11:10:04 AM
Snark would, of course, see that both he and Makis already have Mage Armor on them.
As the familiars spread the word and someone signals Snark, he casts Fly on Herb. Then, he realizes that he cannot be in tree form and cast a spell. So he instead reads a scroll of Invisibility. Once the Giants and trolls come in sight, Snark casts Persistent Image.
Drayma appears to open the door to the hillside hideaway. Drayma says in giantish, "Ugh. Feldor. We were attacked! They killed Korn and a couple of the others. We killed most of them before the rest ran off. We moved the prisoners into the cave. Well, except for that crazy one there - he wouldn't come out of the pen so we left him there. Come in here and help what's left of us move these prisoners into your cage."
The image of Drayma will stand at the door, looking around worridly, gesturing for Feldor to enter the cave.
Beatrix and Tinkerbell (Mitch) HP 50/76 AC 20/16/18 CMD 22 Tinkerbell HP 32/32 AC 23/15/21 Tuesday December 10th, 2024 11:20:34 AM
Ah, right, tree potions! Beatrix would be smart enough to take the offer and be a tree to assist her hiding. Since she can't cast spells until she dismisses it she will hold her fly spell until the fight looks like it's about to start.
Urist (AC25/29 vs giants, HP45of82) (Cayzle) Tuesday December 10th, 2024 3:40:37 PM
Urist preps as the enemy approaches.
Are we in round by round? If so, she casts Quickened Shield and Fly (as noted below)
If we are not round by round, she casts Haste on herself and as many friends as she can. (second round)
DM Sanity:
Underlined = cast. Bold = still in effect
Urist's Spell List (underlined = cast, bold = active) 0: Mending, Message, Arcane Mark, Prestidig 1: Feather Fall, Shield, Grease, Uns Serv, Rose Temp Cont., Rose Temp Cont. 2: Resist Energy x2, Glitterdust, See Invis, Invis. 3: Fly, Fly, Shrink Item, Stink Cloud, Haste. 4: Wall of Fire x2, G Invis, G Invis 5: Q Shield, Q Shield
Short duration spells now active: Fly, Shield
NOTE: Used my wizard spell pick on the Fabricate.
Isaac Harker (Justin M) HP88/91 AC22/ T12 / FF19 d20-1=0 ; d20-1=18 ; Tuesday December 10th, 2024 6:14:38 PM
Isaac keeps still and tries to not make any noise. He almost steps on a loud cracking stick again but see's it before crouching down. Stealth:0 can't make this up. Using a hero point:18 He casts Bull’s Strength on himself and uses his divine bond to make his sword flaming and +2.
Makis the Lucky (AC 22/13/19, CMD 16. HP 69/78+10 temps) (Harry) Tuesday December 10th, 2024 10:11:50 PM
Makis in cat form sends calm throw the link to this familiar. He waits for the giants and trolls to draw closer.
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