Ezekiel (BrianW) - AC 17/13/14; HP 38/38 Wednesday December 4th, 2024 10:26:13 AM
"No promises!" replies Ezekiel to Dapple.
Einar (StevenVdB) - HP65/68 - AC20/14/16 - CMD 21 Wednesday December 4th, 2024 10:57:13 AM
Einar observes the kindness of Yofiel... He likes her... but perhaps she's a bit too kind?! He understands Colt's rant... it is difficult not to linger in anger especially given all that has transpired in the past days.
"Lady Yofiel, let's not forget those these folk hurt with their doings... people in Cloudhaven might benefit even from some of the mundage things here in this camp. The camp ought to be destroyed and it's space gifted back to nature."
All According to Plan - Co_GM Ryan Maps and Documents Wednesday December 4th, 2024 11:49:32 AM Colt thinks Yofiel has gone crazy but since she walked away with Jothan she cannot hear his opinion as they continue the discussion. Assuming the tiem is being taken to search thoroughly you will find some notes about what to catch. It seems and Ankylosaurus is worth over 1000gp in itself and a stegosaurus over 2000gp, of course how you would possibly catch and transport that sort of creature is anyone's guess and far beyond anything you have seen here. There are also a few positions of CLW (2) amd a potion of Endure ELements in a small box.
Arodd chuckles when Colt and Kaze say it is not enough money. “What do you think your average person makes in a year?” he sighs “I have nothing else to do so I may as well run the numbers. If we sell four dinos averaging 200gp each six times a year thats almost 5000 gold. My lads would make about 400gp each and me and my lieutenant would make 800 gp each for the year..” {ooc: D&D economy is weird.} “That is decent money for a low skill job and generally it keeps me out of situations like this.” The last bit is referencing being a captive. He looks at his empty shot glass. “I am surprised you're worrying about that sort of detail, not that it bothers me, at least you're not stabbing me.”
Ezekiel in the tent examines the boxes and can piece together how this group operated. The alchemical items, when applied to a bait like raw meat, would knock dinos in the size they can handel out cold. For transport they could be kept on a much lower dose to keep them docile. There is enough of the chemicals left that they could probably capture four more decent animals.
Jothan winces at the barrage of questions from Yofiel and stammers a bit. “I… I was just trying to help these creatures. I.. ok… Well, stopping them form capturing more is a good thing, right.” as most questions come he winces “You're blaming me for the attack on the Outpost?” he is shocked and shakes his head. “I mean they knew I would try and do something but blaming me, that’s not right. I was trying to do what's right! You know what, leave me alone, maybe your friend who was eating people is more representative of your group then I thought. Sort yourself out before you blame someone who was trying to help.” Despite his words he is clearly shaken and not sure what to do as he stammers you can see his eyes are glassy and he is trying to to cry. “I stabbed that guy you know!”
“Selara taught me for over a year, I was part of the Outpost! You don’t get to blame me for trying to do the right thing from your high and mighty adventure perch!” It is clear he is not angry just really upset with the situation.
Dapple [AC 18; HP 28/28] (Kathy) Wednesday December 4th, 2024 12:11:10 PM
"Any idea what happens to the dinos after you turn them over?" Dapple asks.
Yofiel (Kim McCoy), female elf bard 5th AC 16/16/14 HP: 28/33 Wednesday December 4th, 2024 12:29:51 PM
"Oh, Jothan... I am not blaming you for working to protect the dinosaurs. I am not blaming you for the attack on Vinevale. I myself have done things before, without being aware of how it would affect others' courses of action. Your actions came from a noble heart, cleverness, and courage. I simply want to understand how things came about. And to figure out how to chart our way from here."
========= More to say, have to rush to work! Later, maybe.
Siolo (Joe) - AC 16/14/14 ; HP 34/34 , NL 0 Wednesday December 4th, 2024 5:52:09 PM
********* Siolo's lungs begins burning and his chest feels tight. He stumbles to a stop, inwardly accepting he can flees no longer. And then....nothing..
He looks around and the deinonychus is no longer there. Immediately.. ********* Siolo looks around from his scaly head at a jungle around him. It then occurs to him that he is back.
And just as immediately he shifts back.
Colt Human Rogue (Tim) AC 18 T 14 FF 14 HP 50/50 CMD 20 Wednesday December 4th, 2024 7:10:19 PM "It's more about the risk than the money," Colt replies to Arodd. "You're a relatively small group living openly in a land filled with large predators. And frankly most of your crew isn't that good. Vinevale and Cloudhaven both have well-protected positions. Vinevale has tremendous casters and beast-talkers. Cloudhaven has dozens of citizens. How do you stay alive? One Tyrannosaurus would wipe you all out. "
Ezekiel (BrianW) - AC 17/13/14; HP 38/38 Wednesday December 4th, 2024 10:31:30 PM
"Bad news! The alchemical stuff isn't the explody kind," says Ezekiel. "But on the plus side they can be used to put thunda lizzies to sleep. Might be useful if we need to unawake Maya's pet thunder-king again."
Kaze (JonS) HP 42/45 AC 19/Touch & Flat Footed AC 14/ CMD: 18/ CMB: 6/ Grapple: 7 Wednesday December 4th, 2024 11:30:03 PM
Kaze can understand Yofiel's offer, but is still upset at the way the dino's were and have been treated by the dwarf and his friends
Einar (StevenVdB) - HP65/68 - AC20/14/16 - CMD 21 Thursday December 5th, 2024 3:58:02 AM
Overhearing the discussion Einar shakes his head. Everyone needs to make a living but these folk chose unwise he thinks. But it's not his place to talk about right or wrong choices... he sure made his share of bad ones in the past. Lost in thought he rummages through the camp not sure what he's looking for and not looking for anything specific in the first place.
Falkwyn (Steven P) HP 37/37; AC 16/15/16; CMD 22; Male Elf Ranger 3/Wiz 2; Perception +8 Thursday December 5th, 2024 8:07:07 AM
As the others search the camp, Falkwyn decides to keep an eye directly on the crimson-haired dwarf. With his hand on the hilt of his sheathed sword, after a bit of awkward silence, he asks Arodd, "So...how long have you been hunting these creatures?"
Ezekiel (BrianW) - AC 17/13/14; HP 38/38 Thursday December 5th, 2024 9:26:36 AM
"I also don't understand why you decided to attack Vinevale with such a small, and forgive me for not being diplomatic here, but unformitable force," says Ezekiel. "Unformitable? Informitable? Let's go with non-formitable. In any case, even if we had not been there, I don't see what you hoped to accomplish."
Siolo (Joe) - AC 16/14/14 ; HP 34/34 , NL 0 Thursday December 5th, 2024 9:28:35 AM
Siolo straightens to stand upright and looks about with confusion.
Where am I?
His mind begins working overtime looking for clues or any way to figure out where he is.
All According to Plan - Co_GM Ryan Maps and Documents Thursday December 5th, 2024 2:38:36 PM Arodd looks at his empty shot glass when Dapple asks what happens to the dinosaurs that are turned over. “Not my part of things but I know they are either trying to domesticate or weaponize them to some degree. I can see where certain spells made permanent on one of these beasts would be quite the weapon.” He nods as Colt speaks. “We would drug the dinosaurs, much easier to deal with them if they're asleep. They're too much for most spell casters but alchemy seems to work. Beyond that we scout out places like this, it was better defended before the traps started tripping all the time, with some natural defenses and we don’t stay long. My crew, excepting me when I get a drink, wasn’t much of talkers. Loners quietly moving about can be overlooked a lot.”
Falkwyn asks how long they have been on the hunt. “Not that long really.” He gives a ballpark date of just after Cloudhaven fell. “All I know is one of the players disappeared so they hired us. Honestly, this was never a long-term move for me, just getting past a financial dip and being out of the community I was in was expedient.”
He kind of shrugs at Ezekiel's question. “Well, we didn’t expect much resistance and figure setting things on fire and leaving would keep them busy for a bit. It’s that kind of plan that happens late at night if.. well" he references the shot glass as part of the bad planning.
Yofiel comforts the upset Jothan who is beside himself. “I don’t even know what I have told you at this point. Maya was not my cup of tea but I still wanted to learn and protect. Selara taught me some stuff about life in the jungle and dinosaurs and... Well living with nature. I wanted to be more active so I set out to do what little I could. That is about it really. I.. this has been a day hasn’t it?" He gives a weak grin at Yofiel.
Siolo snaps out of his funk about a mile and a half from where he started with no idea where he is.
Dapple [AC 18; HP 28/28] (Kathy) Thursday December 5th, 2024 2:57:41 PM
"A major player disappeared about then?" Dapple says, then turns to her companions. "So could this 'major player' been living in Cloudhaven? Or the Facility? Were they the ones behind the attack?"
Yofiel (Kim McCoy), female elf bard 5th AC 16/16/14 HP: 28/33 Thursday December 5th, 2024 3:33:19 PM
Yofiel gives the young man a brilliant smile. "Yes, quite a day, indeed!" She then holds out her arm again. "Shall we return to the others?" As they turn to walk to rejoin the group, she says, "As it was Vinevale that was attacked, I think we need to bring the dwarf to face Selara. Let her adjudicate the matter. Would that sit fairly with you, Jothan? She is very wise, is she not?"
As they come back to the group, Yofiel says, "We have work to do, no? We have two who have run away who, for their sakes, and ours, should be found, if we can find them. Some essential things we may want to take from this camp. This young man and I were talking. Let us all return to the outpost, and have the Lady determine what needs to be done. This is her area, and her outpost that was attacked, led by our new acquaintance," and here she nods at the dwarf. "I believe her to be wise and fair. Perhaps she will come up with a judgment that will lead to peace, without, I trust, further bloodshed, or attempts at such."
"Please, if you all have a better plan, lay it out. But if not, let us seek first the man - what is his name, by the way, Aradd Bral? I suggest him, because he does not run as fast as a deinonychus. Speaking of which, what is to be done with this one?" as she points to the chained dinosaur.
Ezekiel (BrianW) - AC 17/13/14; HP 38/38 Thursday December 5th, 2024 3:40:51 PM
"Ah, so you just wanted to cause some trouble than leave, that makes some more sense," says Ezekiel. "Though in the future I would suggest shooting lightning at them."
"What can I tell you about who's buying the dino lizzies? It they were buying from the Facility, maybe Maya will be going after them next."
Colt Human Rogue (Tim) AC 18 T 14 FF 14 HP 50/50 CMD 20 Thursday December 5th, 2024 10:42:51 PM
"Well, you're charming enough, Arodd. And with Yofiel arguing your case, you can be assured of a light sentence. "
Falkwyn (Steven P) HP 37/37; AC 16/15/16; CMD 22; Male Elf Ranger 3/Wiz 2; Perception +8 d20+7=25 ; Friday December 6th, 2024 10:41:48 AM
With the plan being to find the missing people, Falkwyn looks around the clearing for signs of tracks that might point the way for both the dino-hunter and Siolo.
(Survival [Tracking]: 25 (Not sure of the modifiers beyond that.))
The elven ranger surveys the area in a clear and careful manner, surprised that while the hunter's trail isn't all that hard to spot, Siolo's is near non-existant. He mutters, "Hmmm. Druids never make it easy..."
He then reaches out to Ebrath again to see if he can feel her in flight.
Dapple [AC 18; HP 28/28] (Kathy) Saturday December 7th, 2024 1:08:34 PM
"Ezekiel solves his problems with lightning," Dapple explains.
All According to Plan - Co_GM Ryan Maps and Documents Sunday December 8th, 2024 11:51:31 AM
The dwarf nods to Dapple“I would say it was these folks from Cloudhaven that disappeared. I don’t think those that contracted me are anything but opportunistic.”
Yofiel brings Jothan back to the group and suggests searching for the missing member and Arodd notes that he is a decent tracker but tracking a druid is no easy thing. “My man goes by Max and should be easy enough for me to track. I am pretty good in the woods.”
Arodd smiles at Colt's comment and looks at Ezekiel. “The odds of people getting killed by lightning seem much higher than lighting some green plants on fire. Plus none of us can do lightning.”
The track for Max is found easy enough and both Arodd and Falkwyn catch that would quickly. It has been a while so neither is very close at this point. The druid being over a mile away. Unfortunately Ebrath does not have a good bearing at this point on where Siolo has gone off to but knows the direction and the both went somewhat parallel.
Siolo (Joe) - AC 16/14/14 ; HP 34/34 , NL 0 d20=6 ; Sunday December 8th, 2024 4:24:35 PM
((Survival 6+10=16))
Siolo searches the floor of the jungle for his own tracks with great concern.
"So, their paths are roughly parallel? Arodd, you, I, and two or three more of us go after Max. Falkwyn - you and some others go after Siolo.
"I've got a whistle. One blow on it means we are still following the tracks. Two mean hold up. Three mean we found who we're looking for. Five fast ones mean - Come here, now!"
"Siolo has one whistle - who has the other?" She wants to make sure the person with the other whistle is with Falkwyn's group going after Siolo.
When people have figured out who is going with whom, she says, "All right. Let's track them down."
Her rope is coiled back on her hip. Her arrow is nocked, but not drawn. She sticks pretty close to Arodd - within ten feet or so. ========== Survival: 8 - for tracking. The elf lass is not going to be much help there Perception: 19 Knowledge, nature: 26 - keeping an eye out for hazards along the way. Arrow nocked.
Einar (StevenVdB) - HP65/68 - AC20/14/16 - CMD 21 Monday December 9th, 2024 5:11:33 AM
Einar steps up when Yofiel plans to go after this missing man.
"I'm not a fan splitting up the group in this jungle, but I will join you for some protection." he says to Yofiel. Einar takes the hilt of his sword and is ready to move out when ready. "I'm no tracker... but if something else tracks you, my sword will hopefully keep you safe."
Yofiel (Kim McCoy), female elf bard 5th AC 16/16/14 HP: 28/33 Monday December 9th, 2024 10:32:18 AM
"Thank you, Einar!"
All According to Plan - Co_GM Ryan Maps and Documents Monday December 9th, 2024 11:08:02 AM
Arodd nods at the plan and looks at his wounds. “I can just wait here if you like, they might loop back after all.” He will get up to follow if requested but moves slow favoring his wound. {ooc: Sitting at a chunk less than 1/4HP I would not want to be dragged though the jungle either.} Sense Motive DC12 Highlight to display spoiler: { He is sociable and talkative but not really helpful and will certainly take his sweet time tracking someone through the woods while injured and a threat of punishment over his head.. } [b] “You all have a lot on your plates really. I bit of healing and I could just make myself scarce you know.
Whether or not Arodd comes, Siolo can spot the start of Max’s tracks and can start that way once people decide who is going where.
Siolo DC20 Perception or DC20 Survival to find your path. {Making it a coin flip because of your druid ability which is better then normal I would think.} Party: Tracking Siolo DC20 either Party: Tracking poacher DC12
Yofiel (Kim McCoy), female elf bard 5th AC 16/16/14 HP: 28/33 d8+5=12 ; Monday December 9th, 2024 11:21:20 AM
Yofiel casts cure light wounds to alleviate part of Arodd's pains. "Come, limp along with us."
Dapple [AC 18; HP 28/28] (Kathy) Monday December 9th, 2024 11:49:12 AM
Of the two strays, Max is the most likely to be injured, so Dapple goes with Yofiel.
Ezekiel (BrianW) - AC 17/13/14; HP 38/38 d20=10 ; d20=5 ; d20=19 ; Monday December 9th, 2024 11:49:41 AM
"And if lightning doesn't work, there's always second lightning!" says Ezekiel.
Sense Motive: 10. Perception/Survival Siolo: 5. Perception/Survival Poacher: 19.
"The wind is blowing in this direction," says Ezekiel. "That must be which way the poacher went."
Colt Human Rogue (Tim) AC 18 T 14 FF 14 HP 50/50 CMD 20 Monday December 9th, 2024 12:56:03 PM
Colt opens his mouth to speak, but Einar and Dapple volunteer for Yofiel's party first. He shrugs and pairs up with Falkwyn.
Colt Human Rogue (Tim) AC 18 T 14 FF 14 HP 50/50 CMD 20 d4=4 ; d20+6=9 ; Monday December 9th, 2024 12:58:21 PM
[Ooc]failed roll to aid Falkwyn's survival roll.[/ooc]
Siolo (Joe) - AC 16/14/14 ; HP 34/34 , NL 0 d20=5 ; Monday December 9th, 2024 6:42:40 PM
((Survival 5+12=17))
Despite his best efforts the you half-elf man can not seem to find his deinonychus tracks from his location. His concern grows.
The vegetation that he once found delightful seemed to be more imposing. The sounds of the jungle were ominous instead of a symphony.
Siolo sat down as his heart raced. He wiped his face to comfort himself and felt something..It was wet-ish like sweat but had a different consistency. He quickly lowered his hands to look at them. Blood. Blood!?
Siolo panicked..more, feeling all over his face for any wounds. Nothing. Nothing hurt. So it wasn't his blood..
Falkwyn (Steven P) HP 37/37; AC 16/15/16; CMD 22; Male Elf Ranger 3/Wiz 2; Perception +8 d20+7=24 ; Monday December 9th, 2024 7:17:54 PM
Falkwyn gives Colt a nod, and then continues his search for the missing druid's trail. (Survival: 24)
As me scans the area, the elven woodsman asks the rogue, [b]"So what kind of dinosaur was he representing, again?[ /b]
Siolo (Joe) - AC 16/14/14 ; HP 34/34 , NL 0 d20=4 ; Monday December 9th, 2024 7:33:22 PM
((Perception 4+12=16))
Yofiel (Kim McCoy), female elf bard 5th AC 16/16/14 HP: 28/33 Tuesday December 10th, 2024 2:23:59 AM
"Kaze, can you join us? We could use someone with better tracking skills than me, certainly!" Yofiel asks.
Colt Human Rogue (Tim) AC 18 T 14 FF 14 HP 50/50 CMD 20 Tuesday December 10th, 2024 6:07:39 AM "He turns into a dinochus." Colt's pronunciation might be a little off, his internal spelling certainly is, but he says it with confidence.
Einar (StevenVdB) - HP65/68 - AC20/14/16 - CMD 21 Tuesday December 10th, 2024 7:39:46 AM "Where to? Let’s go..." Einar says, eager to move out. "I suppose we have everything here we need?”
All According to Plan - Co_GM Ryan Maps and Documents d20+15=26 ; d20+8=28 ; Tuesday December 10th, 2024 10:57:27 AM
When healed Arodd sighs, mumbling to himself. “I guess I was pushing it too far there.” {For record keeping he is now down 26} He limps and grumbles looking for traps. {Surviva:26 | Perception: 28} “Your druid friend appears to have gone that way. Good thing he was kind fo a mindless beast at that point or we would never find him. It will be slow going to get him, you want me to come after Max or help find your berserker?” {Arodd has a +15 for tracking Siolo since he was an animal when he ran off. +11 against Max, just so you know}
Falkywn finds Siolos path but it is slow going. He and his group find that the trail is far from straight as it darts first one way and then another but going in the same general direction. Honestly you would be the trail is probably 50% longer then the actual distance traveled in one direction.
Working together, with our without Arodd, Yofiel group finds the path and moves quicker then the other group. About twenty minutes in they spot an area of trampled grass ahead where Max’s tracks quickly swing the other way.
Siolo tries to find his trail and panics when he notices he is covered in someone or something else's blood. He sense are sharp but he hears nothing nearby at this point.
Siolo DC20 Perception or DC20 Survival to find your path. {Making it a coin flip because of your druid ability which is better then normal I would think.} Party: Tracking Siolo DC20 either Party: Tracking poacher DC12
Ezekiel (BrianW) - AC 17/13/14; HP 38/38 Tuesday December 10th, 2024 11:17:30 AM
Ezekiel was going after the poacher (Max).
Einar (StevenVdB) - HP65/68 - AC20/14/16 - CMD 21 Tuesday December 10th, 2024 1:32:36 PM
Einar already opted to joining Yofiel.
"Jothan - can you help find Siolo and work with Colt and Falwyn?"
"I can see it hurts for you to walk, Arodd. Let me help you a bit more." Cure light wounds 11 hp on the dwarf. "Better?" she asks him.
"Yes, Arodd, let us find Max together. We want you to assure him we mean to keep him safe. I know he needs some healing, too. And we don't want him added to the fallen." The Max-pursuit group will zig when he zigs and zag when he zags.
Responding to Einar, Yofiel says, "We should return to camp once we find Max and Siolo. We will not leave the fallen unburied. Anything else that needs picking up, we will do it then. Thank you for asking, my friend."
She quietly says to Dapple, "I fear too much blood was spilt today."
After being on the trail of the man for a while, Yofiel's senses heighten, and she is better able to recognize Max's tracks. ========= Survival, tracking of Max: 22 Perception: 29 Sense motive on Arodd after she heals him: 17
Dapple [AC 18; HP 28/28] (Kathy) d6=5 ; d6=3 ; d6=4 ; Tuesday December 10th, 2024 2:06:12 PM
"Here, Arodd, let me help," Dapple says. She channels positive energy and Arodd, Yofiel, and anybody else who's injured regains 12 hit points.
"That should do for now," she says.
Yofiel (Kim McCoy), female elf bard 5th AC 16/16/14 HP: 28/33 Tuesday December 10th, 2024 2:12:24 PM
I think Falkwyn has the other whistle - I hope he paid attention to the most recent whistle-code Yofiel devised!
Also, Siolo has a whistle. If he hears us blow a whistle, and is within a quarter mile, that might help the group find him.
Rules on Whistle - With a DC 5 Perform (wind instruments) check, you can use a whistle to signal the same sorts of situations as signal horns. A whistle’s piercing report can be clearly heard (Perception DC 0) up to a quarter-mile away. For each quarter-mile beyond, Perception checks to hear a whistle take a –2 penalty. Silent whistles that only animals and other creatures with keen hearing can hear also exist.
Siolo (Joe) - AC 16/14/14 ; HP 34/34 , NL 0 Tuesday December 10th, 2024 5:19:13 PM Who's blood?
Siolo digs into his memories, trying to access those of his time as a deinonychus. It is spotty at first. The feeling of the fight. The fleeing from Yofiel. But he is eventually able to piece it together. And it dawns on him what he did. The glee at the kill is replaced immediately with a sick feeling from disgust. He ate the man...
Siolo begins vomiting.
Colt Human Rogue (Tim) AC 18 T 14 FF 14 HP 50/50 CMD 20 Tuesday December 10th, 2024 8:27:45 PM
[ooc] 5 Blows means come right away. That's the only whistle code we really need. :-) [/ooc]
Before splitting up Colt says, "C'mon, Arodd you're with us." Colt whistles for Foggy. Fairly certain the little dog is on the way, he continues, "We'll find Siolo, and -- . Hey, Yofiel, what do we do when we find Siolo? Beat him senseless and drag him back on the travois?"
Colt Human Rogue (Tim) AC 18 T 14 FF 14 HP 50/50 CMD 20 Tuesday December 10th, 2024 8:28:59 PM
After splitting up, Colt trails the more experienced outdoorsmen. Much like he did with Grim before, he tries to watch what they're doing and noticing, in order to learn how to track.
Yofiel (Kim McCoy), female elf bard 5th AC 16/16/14 HP: 28/33 Wednesday December 11th, 2024 12:23:46 AM
"Colt - I think Max may need some reassurance from Arodd," Yofiel responds, thinks a moment. "Ezekiel - would you be so kind as to add to the people tracking after Siolo? I'd love you with us, but they too may need your help out there."
"When you find Siolo? If he is still in dinosaur form, do what you can to subdue him without killing him. If he is in his own body, I think talk with him. Bring him back. Not knowing all possibilities - I trust you guys. Use your discretion. Do try to get him back in one piece. If you need to tie him up... I don't think he can wild shape again today. I think the beast took over him... I pray he can shake it."
Einar (StevenVdB) - HP65/68 - AC20/14/16 - CMD 21 Wednesday December 11th, 2024 3:16:38 AM
As said Einar joins Yofiel’s group. With drawn sword he follows the trackers.
Ezekiel (BrianW) - AC 17/13/14; HP 38/38 Wednesday December 11th, 2024 8:13:01 AM
"There is a fellvoice on the wind," says Ezekiel. "Did you hear it? No, wait, that was just me."
Falkwyn (Steven P) HP 37/37; AC 16/15/16; CMD 22; Male Elf Ranger 3/Wiz 2; Perception +8 d20+7=11 ; d20+8=17 ; Wednesday December 11th, 2024 8:19:05 AM
(Perception: 11 ; Survival: 17) "Ebrath's not seeing him, and she's about a mile out..." Falkwyn relays at he makes his way into the jungle undergrowth, hacking at vines that bar the path.
"Does Siolo go off like this often? " He asks, cautiously.
Falkwyn (Steven P) HP 37/37; AC 16/15/16; CMD 22; Male Elf Ranger 3/Wiz 2; Perception +8 Wednesday December 11th, 2024 9:10:29 AM
(Whoops. Reverse the bonuses for those rolls. Should be Perception +12; Survival +16. Neither successful either way, methinks)
All According to Plan - Co_GM Ryan Maps and Documents Wednesday December 11th, 2024 9:56:59 AM
Arodd sighs when he is healed again. “Right, I will give them a hand. Come on lads.” He starts to llimp over but straightens realizing that the combined healing has done him a lot of good. “Thanks for that.” When Yofiel suggests Max may want to see him he shakes his head. “I don’t know if he will think I am the friendliest face since he ran away and all. Either way is fine with me though.” {ooc: In the interest of balancing story telling against dragging things out the search party will need to do less checks it is just not fast.}
The group works out signals with whistles, a plan to return to the camp, establishes groups and eventually moves out. Yofiels group has the easier work and moves faster through the jungle. They come to a point where Max’s path shifts, close to a larger clearing. Investigating the clearing they can see that the area is trampled down some from a dinosaur moving about in a fairly odd pattern before leaving again. There is a noise from back in the direction of Max’s path, maybe a voice but a good distance and muffled.
The group tracking Siolo moves slower but being slow and careful they manage to barely hold onto the trail. They make progress but have not found any major landmarks yet.
Parties Max: Yofiel, Dapple, Kaze, Max, Einar Siolo: Colt, Falkwyn
Siolo DC20 Perception or DC20 Survival to find your path. {Making it a coin flip because of your druid ability which is better then normal I would think.} Party: Tracking Siolo DC20 either Party: Tracking poacher DC12
Dapple [AC 18; HP 28/28] (Kathy) d20+3=5 ; Wednesday December 11th, 2024 1:14:39 PM
Dapple grew up following roads, not finding a track through the wilderness. Sometimes, her native good sense can make up for it, but not today. [Survival 5]
Kaze (JonS) HP 42/45 AC 19/Touch & Flat Footed AC 14/ CMD: 18/ CMB: 6/ Grapple: 7 Wednesday December 11th, 2024 8:05:25 PM
OOC: CRAP ... my life has been shit the last few weeks ...
IC: Kaze has been following Patches, deep in thought, and Patches is sticking close to Yofiel because she's been giving her treats, while her master and friend seems to be ignoring everything and everyone
Siolo (Joe) - AC 16/14/14 ; HP 34/34 , NL 0 d20=2 ; d20=5 ; Wednesday December 11th, 2024 9:32:24 PM
His body ached as he dry heaved another time. He was vulnerable where he was and needed to get back with the others.
After several incantations of conjuring water, Siolo was cleaned up, albeit fairly wet.
He looked around again for his tracks coming here, but still no sign.
((Survival 2+12=14, Perception 5+12=17))
Yofiel (Kim McCoy), female elf bard 5th AC 16/16/14 HP: 28/33 d20+4=9 ; Wednesday December 11th, 2024 11:43:23 PM
Yofiel's tracking has gotten confused. Survival: 9
She does give Patches another bit of jerked mystery meat. "Kaze, can you fathom where Max went? How about you, Arodd?"
Dear DM: The massive walls of the plateau are to our north. Is the path running generally away from the plateau 'mountain' towards the south, or roughly parallel to it going either east, or west? Since it rises precipitously over a thousand feet right behind the hunters' camp, even in the dense jungle it should be able to be seen from time to time as a reference point.
Colt Human Rogue (Tim) AC 18 T 14 FF 14 HP 50/50 CMD 20 d20+8=13 ; Thursday December 12th, 2024 6:03:14 AM
At the hunter camp: "Okay, Yofiel. We'll bring the travois. See you back here by sunset at the latest? "
He eyes the exchange of Ezekial for Arodd skeptically, but says nothing. The dwarf looked like he'd have been much more help dragging Siolo through the jungle, if they found him.
"There is a fellvoice on the wind," says Ezekiel. "Did you hear it? No, wait, that was just me." Colt waves his hand in front of his face. "Didn't hear it but I sure smell it. You need a change in diet, my friend."
[ooc]Can't resist a straight line like that. I do apologize. :-) [/ooc]
Colt Human Rogue (Tim) AC 18 T 14 FF 14 HP 50/50 CMD 20 Thursday December 12th, 2024 6:09:22 AM
[ooc] On Siolo's trail, or not. [/ooc]
"Does Siolo go off like this often? " Falkwyn asks, cautiously.
"First time. " Colt gasps as he drags the travois over another big tree root. "I get the feeling that he's new to shapeshifting, and he's still learning." The young man lapses into silence, considering seriously for the first time whether they might not get Siolo back.
From his position at the back of the pack, he does what he can to help Falkwyn.
[ooc] The unexplained roll of 13 on my previous post was a perception roll to aid Falkwyn. [/ooc]
Einar (StevenVdB) - HP65/68 - AC20/14/16 - CMD 21 d20+6=10 ; Thursday December 12th, 2024 7:55:30 AM
Einar looks around in the direction the muffled sounds came from ... (perception 10) "You heard that?" he asks the others... "Came from over there I think... but I'm not sure... "
Einar (StevenVdB) - HP65/68 - AC20/14/16 - CMD 21 d20+6=10 ; Thursday December 12th, 2024 7:55:31 AM
Einar looks around in the direction the muffled sounds came from ... (perception 10) "You heard that?" he asks the others... "Came from over there I think... but I'm not sure... "
Ezekiel (BrianW) - AC 17/13/14; HP 38/38 d20=4 ; Thursday December 12th, 2024 8:06:35 AM
"Well, the wind has stopped blowing, so now I'm not sure which direction to go," says Ezekiel. "I'll have to wait for to pick back up again."
Perception/Survival: 4.
Ezekiel is with the group tracking the poacher.
All According to Plan - Co_GM Ryan Maps and Documents d20=20 ; Thursday December 12th, 2024 10:03:26 AM {I added an area map on the maps pages. The outpost is labeled as is Cloudhaven. The blue dot is roughly where both your parties are, one hex is 25 mile so none of it is percise}
Siolo is alone in the jungle. His stomach has been voided and he is covered in blood. He uses magical water to clean himself, over and over before looking around and feeling vulnerable. He looks around trying to find how to get back to the others but is stuck, a little lost and an shaken.
Einar hears the noise and Arodd quickly finds the trail and leads the group through the jungle angeling NNW. After a moment you can hear a voice. “Get a job she said. Make some money.” you hear wood hitting wood. “Lost in a jungle. Bleeding.” some more strikes of wood on wood “Blasted dinosaur will probably find me.” Arodd’s shoulders fall as he sees Max hitting a tree with a stick over and over clearly having a bit of a breakdown.
The group trailing Siolo has been having a rough go but eventually comes to an area that has been trampled down by a dinosaur that was most likely Siolo. It looks as if he was pacing and then darted off to the NNE.
Siolo DC20 Perception or DC20 Survival to find your path. {Making it a coin flip because of your druid ability which is better then normal I would think.} Party: Tracking Siolo DC20 either
Dapple [AC 18; HP 28/28] (Kathy) Thursday December 12th, 2024 1:37:49 PM
"Hi, Max," Dapple says cheerfully, walking toward him. "Sorry, not a dinosaur. Cleric, in fact. Want me to take a look at that wound?"
Yofiel (Kim McCoy), female elf bard 5th AC 16/16/14 HP: 28/33 Thursday December 12th, 2024 3:42:34 PM
Yofiel puts away her arrow and bow, keeps a hand on her rope. Hand-signing for one or two to circle the other way [you can self-select on doing so], she herself takes a wide path widdershins to get on the far side of poor Max, maybe 20 yards away after giving more space on the journey around him. If he somehow notices her, the elf says, "Fear not, Max. We are here so you do not get eaten by a dinosaur, not to cause you any more harm. And, the heavens willing, to allow you to return home."
Once it appears that Max will listen, and not be too spooked, she will blow her whistle three times to signal to the other party that they have found Max. If a whistle is heard in reply (blown by Falkwyn, I think - or Siolo, if he hears it and has presence of mind), Yofiel will suggest that they head that direction to help in the search for Siolo.
Siolo (Joe) - AC 16/14/14 ; HP 34/34 , NL 0 d20=6 ; Thursday December 12th, 2024 4:46:53 PM
((Perception 6+12=18))
Siolo's keen hearing picks up on the whistle blasts from Yofiel. He had earlier discounted the whistle for fear of it attracting animals without his friends being close by. But this sounded like they were certainly close enough to be close by.
The young half-elf scrambled through his belt pouch fir the whistle and blew one long burst. He did not remember Lady Yofiel's code, but hoped the response would be helpful. He decided that he would stay where he was for now to see if there was a response.
Falkwyn (Steven P) HP 37/37; AC 16/15/16; CMD 22; Male Elf Ranger 3/Wiz 2; Perception +8 d20+7=24 ; d20+8=18 ; Thursday December 12th, 2024 6:12:06 PM
(Survival: 24, Perception: 18)
Off in the distance, walking alongside Colt, Falkwyn hears the dual whistle calls, and inwardly curses himself. Idiot. I could have been using that. Got distracted by the difficult tracking...[ And so he draws out the whistle, mutters, "Might want to cover your ears." and then gives an answering whistle burst as well.
Yofiel (Kim McCoy), female elf bard 5th AC 16/16/14 HP: 28/33 Thursday December 12th, 2024 6:39:10 PM
Yofiel hears the encouraging whistled responses. She intends to respond. "Max, has Dapple helped you enough? Look, let me help clean you up - it's a little thing I call my cleaning spell. I'll show you on myself." She casts prestidigitation, and cleans off the debris and dirt that has collected on her as they have traveled through the jungle. "May I help clean you, now that Dapple has helped heal you?" [assuming he has let the halfling cleric do so] If he gives the go-ahead, she cleans the blood (and dirt) off his clothing and hands - wherever it might be.
She also whispers to Max, "We do need to take care of some things first, but later I can get you some gold to take to your family. I think I can give it to you by tomorrow."
Yofiel is curious as to Arodd's actions at this juncture. As soon as Max seems convinced, and so long as Arodd does not do anything untoward (like deciding to run off - in which case the party should do what they can to stop the escape), she will suggest the group head that direction - that is, of the first response to her whistle.
[I may be getting ahead of the action, and feel free to pull me back, but...] Once the group gets moving, she will give the three blasts on her whistle about every 250 yards, hoping answering whistles will let people know whether they are drawing closer, or farther away.
Kaze (JonS) HP 42/45 AC 19/Touch & Flat Footed AC 14/ CMD: 18/ CMB: 6/ Grapple: 7 Thursday December 12th, 2024 9:36:11 PM
Kaze seems caught off guard when they discover Max, Arodd's friend. Cocking his head he'll ask "Um, what did that tree do to you to make you whack it like that?"
All According to Plan - Co_GM Ryan Maps and Documents Friday December 13th, 2024 10:03:05 AM Siolo hears the whistle in the distance and returns its call. He spins a little as direction is hard to establish right off.
Colt and Falkwyn return the call and realize they are not really that far apart. There is a moment of hesitation before they get moving and it is not long before they can spot Siolo though the underbrush. As Falkwyn blows the whistle again Siolo notices him as well.
“Hi Max.” Dapple says cheerfully causing the young man to nearly jump out of his skin. He stumbles mid swing, misses the tree and stand there holding the stick like a bat as he spins around. Yofiel speaks and he spins the other way looking about slowly lowering the stick.
Max is barley more then a teenager with that awkward build that comes with those ages. He has a gap tooth in front and, at the least, looks unworldly if not a bit dim. His light brown hair is a mess and his left leg has a decent gash which he tied a strip of cloth around. When Arodd steps out he drops to his ass. “Easy lad.” The dwarf just watches and Max suddenly realize what is going on.
“Clean me up?” When Yofiel whispers he nods. [b] “Ok miss.” He looks at Kaze and smiles. “It tripped me when I went by, err, I tripped on a root sir.”
Dapple [AC 18; HP 28/28] (Kathy) d8=8 ; Friday December 13th, 2024 1:26:30 PM
"Let's see what we've got here." Gingerly, dapple unties the makeshift bandage. She casts Cure Light Wounds, and Max is healed for 13. "That should do for now," she says cheerfully. "Now we'll let Yofiel do her thing."
Falkwyn (Steven P) HP 37/37; AC 16/15/16; CMD 22; Male Elf Ranger 3/Wiz 2; Perception +8 Friday December 13th, 2024 3:36:51 PM "Siolo?" Falkwyn calls out to the disheveled druid as he and Colt approach. "Are you ok? Back to being...well, You?"
Colt Human Rogue (Tim) AC 18 T 14 FF 14 HP 50/50 CMD 20 Friday December 13th, 2024 5:16:53 PM "Siolo, thought we'd find you all scaly and mad! Welcome back to the soft-skins."
Yofiel (Kim McCoy), female elf bard 5th AC 16/16/14 HP: 28/33 Friday December 13th, 2024 6:27:58 PM
"Oh, my, I may need two spells for you. Well, let's start." She casts prestidigitation, and cleans Max up pretty well on the front side. "All right, you look good coming. Let's work on how you look going. Turn around a moment, please!" She cleans up his... backside.
She mutters, "Looking better... ah!" Yofiel puts a hand on his shoulder, and gently turns him back to face her. "Your trousers are torn. My mother is a seamstress, and I know my way around textiles. Let's fix that tear in your trousers, now that Dapple has helped with your wounds."
The elf bard casts mending, and as she gestures over the thigh, moves her level hands together until the sides of her thumbs touch, then follows up with a smoothing motion about six inches from his leg, the tear in his trousers closes up. After a moment, it looks good as new. She takes her whistle, and risks passing it on to Ezekiel. "Blow this three times, please, as I did a few moments ago. Maybe our friends will draw closer to us if they hear it."
She turns back to the fellow. "So, Max, my name is Yofiel. I'm from Emerald City, in the Culverwood. Where are you from, young man?"
Siolo (Joe) - AC 16/14/14 ; HP 34/34 , NL 0 Friday December 13th, 2024 11:26:09 PM
Colt and Falkwyn see the disheveled druid give them a look that expressed relief and then immediately complete and utter shame. His dirtied red hair clings to his face as if he just got out of a pool of water and his eyes and face are sunken.
"I am glad to see you guys," he says in a low voice.
Kaze (JonS) HP 42/45 AC 19/Touch & Flat Footed AC 14/ CMD: 18/ CMB: 6/ Grapple: 7 Friday December 13th, 2024 11:45:07 PM
Kaze lets Yofiel do her spiel, shaking his head when she makes Siolo look fresh and clean.
Colt Human Rogue (Tim) AC 18 T 14 FF 14 HP 50/50 CMD 20 Saturday December 14th, 2024 12:01:27 PM "Glad to see you too. If you were still a dino, Yofiel told us to beat you into submission and drag you back to the camp. " He lifts the handle on the travois. " I've been thinking two things -- one, I'd have to do a lot of the dragging. And, two, what if the dino we dragged back wasn't you. Thanks for solving both problems. Now what happened? "
Yofiel (Kim McCoy), female elf bard 5th AC 16/16/14 HP: 28/33 Sunday December 15th, 2024 12:34:25 AM
Once she finishes up with Max's reconstitution, she sees Ezekiel there, just staring at the whistle she handed him. "Here, honey. Let me demonstrate." She gently pries the whistle from his fingers.
She blows three blasts on the whistle, to help the others find them.
============= [OOC: Folks - only 5 more days of posting. Can we get the whole crew back to the camp Monday to get the dead buried, to Vinevale on Tuesday, to report in to the people there, and let Selara and the party working together figure out what to do with the two survivors? Also, should we try to bring the dinosaur with us to Vinevale, as evidence? We might use a very light dose of the stuff the hunters used to keep it calm... then maybe Selara can charm it! /OOC]
Siolo (Joe) - AC 16/14/14 ; HP 34/34 , NL 0 d20=7 ; Sunday December 15th, 2024 7:48:40 AM
Siolo nods grimly at Colt. "I'm not entirely sure, I need t-" his words are interrupted by the three whistle blasts.
"I think we should work on meeting up with the others." He turns away from the other two and gives a three blast response. [B]"I hope that was the right response. I think I have enough of my faculties back to get us there.
Every so often Siolo gives a whistle blast.
Falkwyn (Steven P) HP 37/37; AC 16/15/16; CMD 22; Male Elf Ranger 3/Wiz 2; Perception +8 d20+8=26 ; Sunday December 15th, 2024 7:50:41 AM
(Perception: 26)
Falkwyn glances up, hearing the whistle, and motions to the other two, "C'mon. We should meet up with the others." he pauses then adds to Siolo "Are you ok to walk? That's a lot of blood on you..."
Falkwyn (Steven P) HP 37/37; AC 16/15/16; CMD 22; Male Elf Ranger 3/Wiz 2; Perception +8 Sunday December 15th, 2024 7:51:20 AM
((Whoops. Posted at the same time. :) ))
Siolo (Joe) - AC 16/14/14 ; HP 34/34 , NL 0 Sunday December 15th, 2024 11:46:06 AM
((The 7 was meant to be a Survival 7+12=19, to make the way through the jungle to the others.))
Yofiel (Kim McCoy), female elf bard 5th AC 16/16/14 HP: 28/33 Sunday December 15th, 2024 1:55:13 PM [Hoping to hasten things along... fellow players or DM hold me back if this is too fast.]
Hearing the answering three whistle blasts, Yofiel's heart fills with joy. "They have found him! They have Siolo!" She answers the signal, and every minute or so after repeats a single whistle, to allow them to work their way toward them.
Once they arrive, Yofiel rushes to Siolo and enfolds him in an embrace. "Oh, my friend and brother Siolo. Again I prayed for you." A tear or two fall upon his shoulder.
She pulls back. "We must return to the camp, then to Vinevale." She gives him one more light hug, then steps away.
Turning to Arodd and also Jothan (the latter has not disappeared, has he?), Yofiel says, "Let us discuss the deinonychus. Shall we talk things over as we walk? Also, we have two burials to attend to."
Einar (StevenVdB) - HP65/68 - AC20/14/16 - CMD 21 Monday December 16th, 2024 4:20:47 AM
(omg - very sorry folks - I've been diving into the new rules so hard that I completely forgot to post... been on a rules board a bit but somehow didn't get here. Again sorry)
Content that all matters seem to be resolved and that Siolo's returned, Einar nods as Yofiel suggests it's time to head back to Vinevale. He'll drop into marching order as usual as soon as the group starts moving again.
He looks as his Falchion... he gets a strange feeling as he looks at it... (ooc Falchions are no part of the new rules ;-) )
Ezekiel (BrianW) - AC 17/13/14; HP 38/38 Monday December 16th, 2024 9:30:36 AM
"You got to watch out for trees," says Ezekiel. "They are tricksy and always trying to trip you with their roots, which are the evil of all money if you were unaware. Trees are very tricksy."
All According to Plan - Co_GM Ryan Maps and Documents Monday December 16th, 2024 9:32:50 AM
For his part Max seems happy enough when he is healed and smiles and bobs his head. His hair is tousled and he has a good natured disposition now that not alone in the woods. “Thank you for that miss, er, and miss. I’m sorry to trouble you like that but I really didn't’ know what to do.” He blushes as he looks at the cleric and bard. “You asked where I was from miss? Over near Plateau city, we all were except him.” He means Arodd. “This seemed like an adventure and my Ma said I had to ‘get out of the house and do something’ so here I am. I am glad you all found me, well not the first time that sucked but just now.” He grins flushing even redder as he kind of babbles looking at them from time to time.
The team regroups and heads back to the camp talking as they go. Arodd responds to Yofitel’s comments as they are on the move and making good time.
“I will bury my men, no need for you folks to take that on unless your planning to keep me as a souvenir as well.” He chuckles at that last part clearly hoping to be just let to go about his life but not expecting it.
Jothan had been traveling with the group that found Siolo to even the numbers and he moves along with the others still keeping a distance from Arodd and Max…. and Siolo really.
Back at the camp the cleanup will not take the long unless your going to try and take everything which Arodd admits he cannot do w/o his men. He also explains that his plan is to kind of disappear if allowed to, no loyalty to his employers so it would be the simplest thing for him. Holes are dug for bodies and filled in quickly as work. Perception DC20 Highlight to display spoiler: { While you working you notice that Arodd has a very shiny chain shirt under his plain cloths. }
While this happens there is plenty of time for conversation either with the NPCs or your rogue druid.
{ooc: Did anyone keep track of what you found so far or what the dwarf dropped.}
Ezekiel (BrianW) - AC 17/13/14; HP 38/38 d20+5=22 ; Monday December 16th, 2024 10:38:46 AM
"What can you tell us about your employers?" asked Ezekiel. "If it helps, it's in their best interest if we find them first. A dangerous druid and her enhanced thunda-lizards would be looking for them as well, and would deal with them with far less kindness than us."
Diplomacy: 22.
Yofiel (Kim McCoy), female elf bard 5th AC 16/16/14 HP: 28/33 Monday December 16th, 2024 11:46:23 AM
"I love Plateau City," responds Yofiel to young Max, "though I haven't explored the places close 'round it so far. Your ma was right that it's good to get out of the house and 'do something.' Choosing the right things to do, though, can be a challenge."
"It may be kind of you to offer to keep you as a souvenir," the elf tells the dwarf. "That's not our intention - however, it is only right that you have a chance to meet the lady whose place you attacked last night. I think you'll be able to keep your skin, but she may have some words for you. Maybe you can have some words for her, too, such as, "What I did was wrong, and inspired by drink rather than wisdom. It cost me the lives of six of my men. Can you forgive me for trying to burn your place? What would you have me do?"
She pauses, then adds, "And you might want to think of changing your profession by way of restitution for sins. And consider giving up strong drink in excess."
Yofiel asks Max and Arodd if they might say a word or two about the fallen men as their bodies are laid to rest.
She lets the others decide what to do as far as picking up items from the camp. She notes the nice armor that Arodd wears, but will also leaves it to her friends to decide whether they want to claim that from the dwarf or not.
Once doings at the camp are wrapped up, she asks whether they might want to take the dinosaur along with, or to set it free. However that is decided, the bard suggests they make the trek back to Vinevale.
She does ask Arodd, "As we take you to meet Selara - will you pledge to accompany us and not try to escape, or shall we hobble you and have you on a leash? I really don't want to do that, but give your word, and I will accept it."
And then, "Shall we away?" She steps on the path.
Dapple [AC 18; HP 28/28] (Kathy) Monday December 16th, 2024 1:54:33 PM
Yofiel seems to have things pretty well in hand, so Dapple focuses on helping with whatever needs to be done.
She does mention to Max that Cloudhaven could always use willing workers.
Falkwyn (Steven P) HP 37/37; AC 16/15/16; CMD 22; Male Elf Ranger 3/Wiz 2; Perception +8 Monday December 16th, 2024 5:03:41 PM
Falling in alongside Yofiel, Falkwyn grins and says, "You know, Yofiel, you remind me very much of a clergy woman I once knew back in Culverwood. Are you sure you're not also a priestess of some sort or another?"
Kaze (JonS) HP 42/45 AC 19/Touch & Flat Footed AC 14/ CMD: 18/ CMB: 6/ Grapple: 7 Monday December 16th, 2024 9:30:20 PM
Kaze rolls with the punches, saying a short prayer in Beastspeech over the dead, "Goddess, receive these men into your care. Use them to fuel the nature they upset."
He's good to go after that ...
Siolo (Joe) - AC 16/14/14 ; HP 34/34 , NL 0 Monday December 16th, 2024 9:55:51 PM
In any other situation, Siolo would have burned red with embarrassment at Yofiel's affection, but his unkempt and haphazard appearance seemed to be an outward expression of his inside.
"Thank you, Lady Yofiel." he responded somberly, shying away from her hugs. Though he does not reject insisted hugs.
At the camp Siolo busies himself away from the others as much as possible.
Colt Human Rogue (Tim) AC 18 T 14 FF 14 HP 50/50 CMD 20 Tuesday December 17th, 2024 7:31:06 AM
Colt watches the party's reunion silently. He gravitates to Dapple and helps her with whatever she finds that needs to be done.
Einar (StevenVdB) - HP65/68 - AC20/14/16 - CMD 21 Tuesday December 17th, 2024 7:36:15 AM
Inar follows along. If there's loot to carry Einar will volunteer to take most of the burden..
Heading Back - Co_GM Ryan Maps and Documents Tuesday December 17th, 2024 1:08:15 PM Ezekiel asks the most probing question to date about the employers of Arodds crew. Giving it probing due to the diplomacy roll. :) “Not much to tell really. I had an escort job that ended at Plateau City and was taking a bit of time looking for the next gig. I’m known to be good in the wilderness in some circles and I was approached by a half-org looking fellow, said his name was Lork, about this job. He said he was acting for a middle man and I don’t tend to ask questions. I may have been trying to get out of town for a bit, you know how it goes.”
As you go about your tasks and travel Arodd tells you that they used a system of dead drops where they only knew what the next job was and what the next drop point would be. He also tells you that, with the camp gone, the rest of his folks will know just to call the whole thing off and take off. Kind of the unwritten rule is if something disrupts the job they don’t hang around to get caught up in it.
Yofiel talks with both Max and Arodd giving the latter some points on what might help his situation. When asked if he is going to try and run off he chuckles. “Ever see a dwarf run off? Were not generally sprinters so no, I don’t think I will be running off. I can face the music and go on with my life fair enough but I would prefer not to have a leash, that would be a step to far for my pride i think..”
Max stumbles with words when asked to say a few words about the fallen and all he comes up with are. “Jimothy, you were taller then me and a good whistler. Zek, well I didn’t know you much. Still I would rather you were here.” he looks around trailing off. “Don’t think I did that right but you know…” he shrugs.
Arodd pats him on the shoulder and speaks quite about each of the fallen before ending with. “I am not much for religion though of course I know the gods are there. I know you both will hold your chin up when judged by them and it will be ok.”
The others talk as the camp is packed up. [i] {I will send you send highlights of what you find in the email.} Eventually things are settled and you the party takes an uneventful trip back to the outpost. It takes time but there are not problems encountered at least. The biggest thing of note is the Max actually has a nice singing voice and he occasionally will sing a little song about a curious little monkey and his adventures.
If you want to bring the chained up dino either NPC can show you how to drug it so it will come calmly. If you don’ want the hassle you can just lt it go.
As you get closer to the outpost Jothan hesitates. “If its all the same, I might stay out here. Maybe I will stumble across some more information on this operation or maybe I won’t still. Unless you need me I would rather not deal with going back to the outpost just yet.”
Dapple [AC 18; HP 28/28] (Kathy) Tuesday December 17th, 2024 1:25:42 PM
Dapple does not give a eulogy unless specifically asked to do so. Warddian eulogies tend to.....lack sympathy.
She has no objection to Jothan remaining behind at the outpost.
Kaze (JonS) HP 42/45 AC 19/Touch & Flat Footed AC 14/ CMD: 18/ CMB: 6/ Grapple: 7 Tuesday December 17th, 2024 10:19:45 PM
Kaze pipes up about the dino, "If we can do it safely, then I think we should bring it with us. Once we ensure it's ok, then release it back to the wilds."
OOC: Any chance Kaze could have the scimitar?
Yofiel (Kim McCoy), female elf bard 5th AC 16/16/14 HP: 28/33 Wednesday December 18th, 2024 5:46:09 AM
In rough order of occurrence Quietly, and somewhat away from others, she approaches and responds to Siolo as he distances himself from group members. "I sense the changes you go through are not only reshaping your body, but begin to shape your mind. You are fond of Maab who shaped much that is good in the Wold, as am I, Siolo. I also adore Alemi, the healer, and Domi, the courageous. Perhaps not now, but let us soon take some time to talk about these things. I am your friend, druid. Don't, I ask, hide from me. There are times when shame makes us want to hide. No, shame is a thing that helps us realize we did something that we may need to shake, to change away from. It can be a healthy warning to our spirit. Remain my friend, come what may, for I shall remain yours."
She then turns away to give him space to think over her words.
Falkwyn Yofi returns Falkwyn's smile. "Nay, no priestess am I. Yet I am a worshiper of the great ones who helped make the Wold what it is, and who serve as examples and inspiration for what we might strive for. My uncle, my father's brother, is a cleric, as is one of his two sons, my cousins. I am pleased we have Dapple with us. She does not talk a great deal, but I often enjoy the insights that she provides.
"Where in the Culverwood? I'm from there."
Burials Yofiel listens to what the boy and the dwarf say of their companions. She makes a song for Zek and a song for Jimothy, who was a tall whistler. Atop each grave she writes the deceased's name using little sticks and rocks. Later she asks Kaze what he prayed over the fallen.
Colt "I know you wanted Arodd with you, and grant he is likely the best tracker among us. But I wanred him to be here when we caught up to Max, to help reassure him." Yofiel did not add that she did not fully trust the dwarf, and wanted to keep an eye on him. "By the way, thanks for giving Dapple a hand."
Deinonychus "Yes, Kaze, I concur. Let us bring the fella. Say, do you fellows give the 'saurs names?" she asks the two remaining hunters.
Jothan et al Again aiming for a roughly private conversation, Yofiel says, "You are rather thoroughly tied up in the actions of the past day. Please buck up, Jothan. I can see some wisdom in perhaps not revealing your role to the hunters, but it may be time to talk with the crew at Vinevale, nonetheless. Like it or not, you are a big part of the story, good ranger."
"Thanks for being such a strong bearer of burdens, Einar!" She gets to work composing a little ditty about him.
"Ezekiel, sometimes you ask very good questions."
Ezekiel (BrianW) - AC 17/13/14; HP 38/38 Wednesday December 18th, 2024 6:54:06 AM
"What question?" asks Ezekiel. "Oh wait, that was a question. Was that the good question I asked?" "Oh, another question!"
Colt Human Rogue (Tim) AC 18 T 14 FF 14 HP 50/50 CMD 20 Wednesday December 18th, 2024 8:36:30 AM "What's wrong, Jothan? I thought these people were your friends. Are you jealous of Gwenestri and Calbark?"
For some reason, perhaps Jothan's relative youth, Colt has decided he's game for teasing of the most adolescent sort.
Heading Back - Co_GM Ryan Maps and Documents Wednesday December 18th, 2024 9:50:24 AM
Jothan looks at Colt and it takes a moment to realize he is being teased. Eventually he nods.. “I will go back at some point sure. I just… they sit on their hands a lot and let the world move around them while they study. After Maya I want to be more active and I can feel each thing I do makes me a little better. Living off the land is already something I can do and I just want to be active, if that makes sense.” He realizes he is talking to adventurers several cuts above him and finds his own statement a little embarrassing.
Arodd and Max show the party how to keep the dino under control with the slightly drugged meat and it is content enough to follow alone once it has fed. It acts a little drunk and will even allow people to pet it while in this state, it's just very mellow. Max points out, proud of his knowledge, that you need to give it a bit every four hours to keep it like this but if you try for more than twelve hours it will throw up and get agitated.
Yofiel has several conversations and does some nice work with the burials, much better than either of the fellows who knew the dead. Jothan listens to her about returning. “If you really think I need to I will but I don’t plan to stay long. You have been good to me so if you ask it I guess I have to do it.”
The group makes it back though between messing with the dino and everything it is quite late when they arrive. Most of the residents are either doing their own thing or bedded down but Calbark greets you and welcomes you back giving the dino a bit of a side eye when it is brought in.
Dapple [AC 18; HP 28/28] (Kathy) Wednesday December 18th, 2024 1:55:51 PM
"Hi, we're back!" Dapple announces cheerfully. She looks around. "Don't suppose there's anything left of dinner?"
Colt Human Rogue (Tim) AC 18 T 14 FF 14 HP 50/50 CMD 20 Wednesday December 18th, 2024 6:02:33 PM
Colt replies to Jothan. "Sure that makes sense, but it doesn't mean you can't visit. And the food's probably better than you're making for yourself."
Kaze (JonS) HP 42/45 AC 19/Touch & Flat Footed AC 14/ CMD: 18/ CMB: 6/ Grapple: 7 Wednesday December 18th, 2024 10:03:14 PM
Kaze walks next to the dino, speaking to it in soothing tones ... he's semi-checking it out as to how it would work a mount ... or a mobile ram if armored ... or as a method of picking fruits higher than he can reach
Yofiel (Kim McCoy), female elf bard 5th AC 16/16/14 HP: 28/33 Thursday December 19th, 2024 3:22:50 AM
Along the way to Vinevale, a conversation "Jothan. Would you mind if we conduct a little thought experiment?" she asks the young man. She waits until he indicates an openness to humoring her on this suggestion.
"Very well, here we go. Ready?" she asks by way of confirmation. If he says he is ready, she begins:
"What do you think, ranger, about people who ride horses? Is that something that in and of itself is intrinsically evil? What about people who have dogs as pets, or, as is the custom of our friend Kaze here, ride them? Is that a wicked practice?
"Also, what about our friend Falkwyn? He has a hawk as a familiar. How could an elf be so crass as to use a bird to work with him as a companion and assistant? Is that wrong, or ill-considered?
"Moreover, consider those who place saddles upon donkeys, or mules, and use them as beasts of burden, or perhaps to pull a cart. Should there not arise a hero to free all such creatures from having to carry things belonging to others?
"With the examples here shown, how might that relate to those who perceive the value of various types of dinosaurs, and who seek to benefit from their strength, or speed, or other intrinsic characteristics?" She pauses. "Is their attempt to win the trust or cooperation of some dinosaurs intrinsically corrupt or wicked?"
Another conversation Yofiel asks Arodd about the formulation of the means of rendering meat or other foods capable of inducing calm or sleep in dinosaurs, and how to gauge dosages. She listens with care, and will transcribe on to paper in her journals later on.
On arrival at Vinevale "Ah, Calbark, what a long day this has been. Are all well here?" She inquires about where to put up people to sleep. She indicates she can sleep on the ground, or rig for herself a hammock. "We shall want to hold counsel in the morning, or midday. Is it safe to assume that Lady Selara is remaining here?"
Einar (StevenVdB) - HP65/68 - AC20/14/16 - CMD 21 Thursday December 19th, 2024 4:40:04 AM
On their way back to Vinevale Einar carries the goods as promised. Once they are back he drops of everything at Calbarks. Perhaps there are some things that will help the outpost? He assumes the rest will be put to good use amongst the group.
Colt Human Rogue (Tim) AC 18 T 14 FF 14 HP 50/50 CMD 20 Thursday December 19th, 2024 7:42:25 AM
Along the way to Vinevale, a conversation :
]"Hey, don't forget Foggy! He's an example of pure goodness!" The little dog twines himself around Cole's feet as they walk. Often never quite getting kicked and often not quite tripping the young man.
Heading Back - Co_GM Ryan Maps and Documents Thursday December 19th, 2024 10:11:30 AM
On the trip back Yofiel and Jothan discuss the ethics behind his actions and the actions of the poachers. “I see what you are saying Yofiel but it feels different. An animal raised to work or bear a burden knows no other life really. The same is an animal raised to be slaughtered. These would be domesticated animals so there life is set in many ways. “
“I have no problem with riding a mount but I would not want to catch and break a wild stallion. Let it live its life. The same would go for a wild donkey.” He pauses at that. “Are there wild donkeys? Have you ever seen a hamster? I cannot image them in the wild either really.” Clearly he got distracted for a bit on this topic before he brings it back. “To me a domesticated creature is different. Also, the dinosaurs are in a fairly specific environment and disrupting them over much could upset the balance of the area. Take out two many predator dinosaurs and we could be over run by vicious sloth or something.” When all is said and done he does agree to enter the Outpost with everyone else.
Arodd shares what he knows of drugging the meat and it basically comes down to using a variation on a sleeping potion. You kind of have to take a guess as to the weight of the dino and eyeball how much to use as what would knock out a humanoid would have little effect on a larger dinosaur.. {ooc: and this reminds me I left the three Potions of Sleep off the loot list.
Calbark smirks at the question of food. “Well everything is pretty much away at this point, it is quite late. Selara is around, I believe she retired for the evening but she is around. The whole population is here at present actually.” he eyes the prisoners and nods to Jothan. “Is the the dwarf who was here for the attack?” his hand drops to a weapon but he cna see the dwarf is unarmed.
Places to sleep are arranged but there is not much activity in the outpost at this time of night and Calbark makes no offer to wake people though he will if asked.
Dapple [AC 18; HP 28/28] (Kathy) Thursday December 19th, 2024 12:39:17 PM
Calbark asks whether Arodd was the dwarf that was part of the attack. "Yeah, but he's sorry," Dapple says.
Colt Human Rogue (Tim) AC 18 T 14 FF 14 HP 50/50 CMD 20 Thursday December 19th, 2024 2:25:01 PM "Calbark, when you say everyone's here, do you mean Waelius too?"
Falkwyn (Steven P) HP 37/37; AC 16/15/16; CMD 22; Male Elf Ranger 3/Wiz 2; Perception +8 Thursday December 19th, 2024 6:54:19 PM
Without realizing it, Falkwyn shifts to put him self partially between Calbark and Arodd. "He's come...more or less willingly...to face justice. He's definitely mercenary, but not necessarily evil..."
Siolo (Joe) - AC 16/14/14 ; HP 34/34 , NL 0 Thursday December 19th, 2024 7:50:10 PM
Siolo takes Yofiel words with little expression changes and, unsurprisingly, keeps to himself moping in the rear on the way back.
Back at Vinevale, Siolo continues to get alone time so long as it isn't disruptive.
Kaze (JonS) HP 42/45 AC 19/Touch & Flat Footed AC 14/ CMD: 18/ CMB: 6/ Grapple: 7 Thursday December 19th, 2024 10:58:48 PM
Kaze smiles a sad smile when Yofi asks what he prayed, "It's a hunter's prayer. We commend the body of the fallen to the earth to use to nurture new growth somewhere else. We generally say it when we kill animals to eat. We take what we need, the rest we bury, with that prayer. Sometimes people have seeds they bring along, and they plant them on the gravesite."
Yofiel (Kim McCoy), female elf bard 5th AC 16/16/14 HP: 28/33 Friday December 20th, 2024 2:21:13 AM
"Yes, Colt - Foggy is pretty close to pure goodness!"
"Ah. Thank you, Kaze. That sounds right," Yofiel responds to the fuzzy ranger.
The bard appreciates the comments and questions of her companions.
"Calbark, it has been a long, long night and day, and the night has come again. Let most of us sleep," suggests Yofiel. "I can watch at the wall for a few hours, perhaps some of my friends can do so as well. Those who dwell, here, let them get their rest. On the morrow, we would ask for a brief counsel - perhaps after breakfast? Then let things be decided, and arranged. It is good to see you, guardian of Vinevale."
She makes quick introductions. "This is Arodd. He has been chastened. We would have him meet Selara. This is Max. He is far from home, and sings well. I believe we can trust both this evening." Looking at the deinonychus, she says, "This one is... a topic for a decision. In a few hours, he needs to be fed from this meat, lest he get too feisty. May we keep him tied up away from pathways, with someone to ... say, Max, can you make sure the dinosaur is cared for tonight? Maybe one of us can help you so you can get some sleep, too. What do you think - you want to help Max, Kaze?
"Calbark is in charge here. Do whatever he tells you," he instructs the newcomers.
"For those who would, let us set watches for this evening. I will need to meditate for four hours, then can take my turn on the wall. Who else will stand guard over this beautiful garden?"
She stifles a yawn. Yofiel will take whatever directions for sleeping arrangements that Calbark gives.
Before finding her place to rest, she quietly asks Siolo, "Will you watch with me later tonight, at least for a short while?"
She privately speaks with a few to keep an eye in particular on Arodd. She thinks he will behave, but does not want, through want of attention, for him to try to slip out over the thorny wall.
[OOC: I am hoping we can hand wave the balance of the night hours. In the morning, the group can lay out the gist of what they learned, and what happened. She knows that Jothan's active opposition to the work of the hunters helped to trigger this whole episode, but has taken pains not to spill the beans to Arodd. She hopes in the morning privately to give Selara a summation and her perspectives, but for the druid to make up her own mind on what should take place. The elf wants no further bloodshed.]
In the morning, perhaps after breakfast, the group can present their findings before the people of Vinevale, Arodd and Max might speak on their own behalf, and Jothan, too, if he chooses, give his views.
[I love this game and my gaming companions. I do look forward to a festive break at the Giggling Ghost! Join us there with your character, if you will, meet other Woldians, and win some prizes...]
Siolo (Joe) - AC 16/14/14 ; HP 34/34 , NL 0 Friday December 20th, 2024 6:34:30 AM
Siolo shakes his head at Yofiel, "No, Lady Yofiel. I will take another watch."
Siolo's thoughts were still overwhelmed by what had happened. He just wanted to continue to wallow in it.
Dapple [AC 18; HP 28/28] (Kathy) Friday December 20th, 2024 1:30:53 PM
Dapple contents herself with munching a few cold rations before turning in. Visions of sugarplums dance in her head.
Heading Back - Co_GM Ryan Maps and Documents Monday December 23rd, 2024 10:54:16 AM
Calbark stares at the dwarf as the others speak and Falkwyn steps to block a direct path. After a moment he sighs and responds to Colt. [n] “Yes, Ebin is back. He got in very early but I have not seen him since which is not unusual. Yodel makes arrangements for the deinonychus and helps organize the watch. Calbark is fine with th arrangements and Max agrees to take care of the beast.
The night passes and the pirates return with captives naturally has the attention of all in the morning. Not long after breakfast and everyone's preparation for the day there is a small gathering including the Calbark and Selara. Jothan speaks quietly with Selara for a moment before he find a place with everyone. Arodd is the first order of business as there are some naturally hard feelings over the attack. His response is simple.
“I do apologize for he attack and the trouble we caused you. We had our own job to do and frankly being alone in the jungle for so long you can start to see things as enemies easily I guess. The night of the we had been talking about all our traps that had been disarmed and other problems over some drinks. Well a lot of drinks really. Enough of the old liquid courage and complaints go us headed down a bad path really. Should have just moved further away from you folks but we had a nice little nook. All the withstanding we should have left you be, no money in attack your place really.” He looks at Yofiel. “I had some expensive gear they have it now, mostly. I don’t mind paying my due but all I have left is a bit of gold sewn into my pants, its not much. Honestly I would just like to get out of here with my skin still on.”
No judgment is rendered but Selara looks to the party. “It seems you had some success.” As she asks a gnome with grey/white bushy hair floating above his head kind of like dandelion fuzz arrives reading a book as he walks. He looks about. “Oh, your the ones I heard about. Carry on.”
Colt Human Rogue (Tim) AC 18 T 14 FF 14 HP 50/50 CMD 20 Monday December 23rd, 2024 12:24:53 PM
Colt looks at the bookish gnome. They've come this way through jungle and battles for a dandelion-headed librarian. He'd expected someone more magisterial. Still, it's the successful conclusion to this little adventure, and he says lightly enough, "Arrg. And you're the one we heard about. Danric Bramblemoon, a blue-eyed, freckle-faced halfling sent us after you. Says he's with the WLA and they're getting worried 'cause you've been out of touch."
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