Where are We?… coDM SteveK d10+6=15 ; d10+6=16 ; d10+6=11 ; d10+6=10 ; Friday November 29th, 2024 9:25:42 AM
Going from imminent bedlam to the sudden quiet appears to the heroes to take a little time to assess. Thoughts of ‘are we dead?’, whether mordantly like Dez or humorously like Nira are quashed by Hmerrin pulling out quills.
Ouch! The fighter can pull one per as if he had a full attack, so 4 are pulled and they hurt! ( Hmerrin takes 42 damage.). Maybe, he thinks, there is a less painful way to get rid of them all. If only there was someone with the skill to look it over…
Then there is the question of where they are. Again, the heroes are probably knowledgeable enough if they engage there skills in things other than combat…
Yrûl (Nick K) HP:205/211 AC:33 F:16 R:30 W:9. CMD:40 d20+38=46 ; Friday November 29th, 2024 10:33:29 AM ~~~
“Not dead and...Hmm, do you think maybe I could pull out quills like removing tricksy traps?” Yrûl pondered aloud. It was likely a little late for such rumination, but perhaps it might be something worth considering in the future.
”So…..this is different.” She added without any great conviction. She had a little bit of knowledge of dungeons and nature, but that was about it really. Strangeness, magic and other realms were all decidedly ‘otherly’ to her. Her menagerie of little friends were all conspicuously silent, which was no bad thing considering that they were usually more of a hindrance than a help. It was however, pleasantly gloomy, so Yrûl did what came naturally and gleefully slid into the ‘shadows’.
Stealth: 46
~~~
Resist Acid Endure Elements. DR10/- in Dim Light. +2 to Saves in Dim Light. “Callie” Ioun Stone 4/50 spell levels absorbed. (8th and below) Shadow step: 30’/360’ per day. Greater Shadow Conjuration: 0./4 per day. Shadow Illusion 0/5 per day (as Silent image) Shadow Evocation 1/2 per day
~~~
Yrûl’s little friends…. Snickit & Dabz (a pair of matched picks.) Syd (a sling and female to Yrul’s mind) Peabo (a dark blue butterfly: ioun stone) Callie (a lavender & green butterfly: ioun stone) Aggerz (a pale green dragonfly: ioun stone) Tolly (aka Sir Tolmenedes Goodhew - an iridescent bumblebee: ioun stone)
"Here, Hmerrin...let me take a look at those," says Desdichado as he walks toward the fighter and looks over the quills for a way to take them out safely.
"So," he asks the group, "any idea where we are? Those red ribbons sure look like Woldsblood to me..."
Danko Pureheart (Yves) AC 31/35/36 haste-- CMD 37 -- 111/145 HP d20+25=32 ; d20+13=28 ; Friday November 29th, 2024 7:59:03 PM
Danko looks around... but isn't really sure what he's looking for,,,
Perception 32 Knowledge Arcana 28
S/R 20 D/R electricity 10 necklace of adaptation
Mage armor +4 AC Resist energy 30 pts fire 170 minutes
Haste 30' move, extra attack, +1 bonus on attack rolls and a +1 dodge bonus to AC and Reflex saves Good Hope +2 morale bonus on saving throws, attack rolls, ability checks, skill checks, and weapon damage rolls. inspire courage +4 morale bonus on saving throws against charm and fear effects and a +4 competence bonus on attack and weapon damage rolls
Ramirez looks around again, and thinks about the lore he knows, to see if any of the books he's read match up with what he is looking at.
Active Effects: endure elements resist fire(30) duration 110 minutes good hope - Each affected creature gains a +2 morale bonus on saving throws, attack rolls, ability checks, skill checks, and weapon damage rolls. wis damage = 3, con damage = 3
Used: 1 charge from endure elements wand 1 charge from resist energy wand Spells: 5/6 level 2 remaining 5/6 level 3 remaining 3/5 level 4 remaining bardsong: 34/46 rounds remaining
combat reminder 38/(38 haste)/33/28 damage 1d8+22(includes active effects and arcane strike)
Gaffer - Courtney - HP: 217/217 AC: 39(T:22/FF:32) CMD:43) d20+25=35 ; d20+35=41 ; Sunday December 1st, 2024 4:36:12 PM "The gate did seem to sort of explode, I imagine that could mean weird spacial magic happened?"
It would be greatly amusing if they were in another Teucri space, Gaffer starts taking a more focused look around and looks for any tracks or signs of other beings passing through.
----- Nature: 35 Survival: 41
A Pause for Information… coDM SteveK Monday December 2nd, 2024 6:47:31 AM
Yrûl finds this area is particularly perfect to hide in, so full of shadows it seems the very air is shadow!
The heroes are skilled, and it takes only a little time of contemplation to confirm that the Tide is currently in the Realms of Shadow, and Ramirez can fill in the others on the plane and its religious significance. "The Realms of Shadow is a traveling plane and connects the Wold with not only the Lands of Rest but many other planes where Outsiders come from. While most speculate Gargul is master here (as the god of travel), other connecting planes (most notably the nightmare realm of Koshe-Marr) can have other masters."
"Don't go near the red glittering threads. That is Woldsblood, the life force of everything in the Wold. We can see it in the Realm of Shadow as it moves from the Wold to the Lands of Rest."
Danko can fill in more from an arcane point of view. "The Realm of Shadow is where Yrûl gets her shadow powers from. And Nira directly taps into Woldsblood to power her BloodWitch magic."
Desdichado looks over Hmerrin with his healing skills and nods. Yes! The quills can be removed without further damage, but he will have to carefully extract each one. Magic healing won't work to remove a quill, this is going to take a skilled and subtle hand... ( A successful Heal 20 check will remove one quill without damage. A failed roll means the quill is removed but causes d10+6 damage. Please roll for each quill [Take 10 or 20 not in use])
The Sorcerer looks about and can spot at the very edge of his perception there is 'something' (he can't tell, but is pretty sure it is not shadow or Woldsblood) 'over there' (ooc: direction is near-meaningless in this realm that has no floor or any other reference point... even the threads of Woldsblood flow in every direction!)
Yrûl (Nick K) HP:205/211 AC:33 F:16 R:30 W:9. CMD:40 d20+31=48 ; d20+38=53 ; Monday December 2nd, 2024 7:15:33 AM ~~~
“Oh, we can go take a look if you want?” Offered Yrûl on behalf of her strange gang of little friends. This place seemed particularly conducive to getting around, both swiftly and surreptitiously.
She then promptly ‘danced’ her way through the gloom to see what there was to espy.
Perception: 48 Stealth: 53
~~~
Resist Acid Endure Elements. DR10/- in Dim Light. +2 to Saves in Dim Light. “Callie” Ioun Stone 4/50 spell levels absorbed. (8th and below) Shadow step: 30’/360’ per day. Greater Shadow Conjuration: 0./4 per day. Shadow Illusion 0/5 per day (as Silent image) Shadow Evocation 1/2 per day
~~~
Yrûl’s little friends…. Snickit & Dabz (a pair of matched picks.) Syd (a sling and female to Yrul’s mind) Peabo (a dark blue butterfly: ioun stone) Callie (a lavender & green butterfly: ioun stone) Aggerz (a pale green dragonfly: ioun stone) Tolly (aka Sir Tolmenedes Goodhew - an iridescent bumblebee: ioun stone)
He's able to get almost all of them out with just a slight pinch at the end of each of them.
Hmerrin (MikeK)(HP 128/261 AC:38 T:24 FF:30 CMD:51) DR 5/-, Sickened Monday December 2nd, 2024 5:36:35 PM
Hmerrin sighs gratefully as Dez removes the last of the quills. "Thanks, that was a lot better than my way."
He looks around. "Guess there's nothing for it but follow Yrul to the 'whatever it is' over yonder.
The fighter stows his axes and starts moving thataway.
"And Nira, quite a spellcasting display. Nice job."
Ramirez (BrianZ) AC36/24(touch) HP 190/190 CMD38 Monday December 2nd, 2024 8:58:57 PM That's a lot of quills, maybe we should keep them and make a souvenir? Ramirez follows Yrul to check out the something over there
Active Effects: endure elements resist fire(30) duration 110 minutes good hope - Each affected creature gains a +2 morale bonus on saving throws, attack rolls, ability checks, skill checks, and weapon damage rolls. wis damage = 3, con damage = 3
Used: 1 charge from endure elements wand 1 charge from resist energy wand Spells: 5/6 level 2 remaining 5/6 level 3 remaining 3/5 level 4 remaining bardsong: 34/46 rounds remaining
combat reminder 38/(38 haste)/33/28 damage 1d8+22(includes active effects and arcane strike)
Gaffer - Courtney - HP: 217/217 AC: 39(T:22/FF:32) CMD:43) Monday December 2nd, 2024 9:45:10 PM
His focus switching back to his companions, Gaffer realises that Hmerrin is still quite heavily injured, and quickly moves over to cast a heal on the fighter.
"We shouldn't get to far apart" Gaffer warns, and will follow Yrul and Ram if they get more than 60 feet away.
----- Cast: Heal on Hmerrin; 150 Hit Points
RobC - Nira Wynvyre -- AC 35*/19*/29* -- CMD 27 -- HP 170/170 -- Arcane Sight, DarkVision, See Invisibility Monday December 2nd, 2024 11:42:11 PM
Everyone seems fully healed now, which is a relief. Nira isn’t entirely sure how her magic will behave in this land, though. Being so close to Woldsblood could either amplify her spells or - just as easily - make them wildly unpredictable and explosive.
She hesitates for a moment before casting Prestidigitation, the least powerful spell she knows, hoping it doesn’t end up causing more harm than good. A quick flick of her wrist to clean her clothes and hair, but she can’t shake the feeling that even this simple spell could go sideways.
Danko Pureheart (Yves) AC 31/35/36 haste-- CMD 37 -- 111/145 HP Tuesday December 3rd, 2024 6:26:24 AM
Danko says to the others...
" I may be able to plane shift all of us out of here... but we need to be here... for some reason... "
For Some Reason… coDM SteveK Tuesday December 3rd, 2024 8:23:44 AM
Yrul and Ramirez start off for the object Danko saw, but Gaffer warns about splitting the party: WLA Rule #2. The Drow is in her element, dancing amidst the shadows. Ramirez gets the feeling he is less walking and more ‘just moving’, sort of like moving in the direction just by thinking about it!
Between Desdichado and Gaffer, all quills are removed and heroes healed: much easier than just pulling and a reminder that a little brain power is sometimes better than any amount of magic!
Nira is worried about spells, and sure enough, she realizes all her active spells are suppressed: they don’t translate across the plane. But her cantrip seems to work as normal.
Danko confirms he can get everyone back to the Wold, but wonders why are they there…
…………
Yrul’s sharp eyes and being a little closer enable her to pick out the object clearer: it looks like a gypsy caravan: a wagon with wooden sides and roof, and three steps leading to a door in the back: it is brightly painted in reds and greens and trimmed in white. There are no animals in the traces.
Yrûl (Nick K) HP:205/211 AC:33 F:16 R:30 W:9. CMD:40 d20+31=50 ; d20+38=39 ; Tuesday December 3rd, 2024 9:44:31 AM ~~~
’Oooh, look at that. It’s a pretty, little wagon. You know, just like gypsies have. We’ll go take a closer look. Perhaps they’re lost and we can help. Oh, no wait, gypsies don’t get lost….do they?’ Yrûl sent to the others in a swift babble of information. Curiosity propelled her on. She had no fear, feeling very much at home and cosseted by the gloom. Plus, the ‘caravan’ was colourful. Yrûl loved colourful.
’Come on, guys.’ She encouraged her weapons and sundry assistants, forgetting she was still projecting her thoughts to everyone else. ’I bet there’s a really colourful scarf in there. Maybe we can buys one. No, we should absolutely get two! That way I can have one around each wrist. Wouldn’t that be amazing?’
Weaving through the shadows Yrûl swiftly made her way to the steps leading up to the caravan. She listened as much as peered in. Was someone at home. In her eagerness she placed a foot on the bottom step and it creaked ominously.
’oops.’ Was her all too clear thought.
Perception: 50 Stealth: 39 (A 1 was rolled)
~~~
Resist Acid Endure Elements. DR10/- in Dim Light. +2 to Saves in Dim Light. “Callie” Ioun Stone 4/50 spell levels absorbed. (8th and below) Shadow step: 30’/360’ per day. Greater Shadow Conjuration: 0./4 per day. Shadow Illusion 0/5 per day (as Silent image) Shadow Evocation 1/2 per day
~~~
Yrûl’s little friends…. Snickit & Dabz (a pair of matched picks.) Syd (a sling and female to Yrul’s mind) Peabo (a dark blue butterfly: ioun stone) Callie (a lavender & green butterfly: ioun stone) Aggerz (a pale green dragonfly: ioun stone) Tolly (aka Sir Tolmenedes Goodhew - an iridescent bumblebee: ioun stone)
~~~
Ramirez (BrianZ) AC36/24(touch) HP 190/190 CMD38 Tuesday December 3rd, 2024 6:53:58 PM
[b]Hold on Yrul, let's give everyone a chance to catch up. This doesn't seem to be the kind a place where we would want to get split up.
Used: 1 charge from endure elements wand 1 charge from resist energy wand Spells: 5/6 level 2 remaining 5/6 level 3 remaining 3/5 level 4 remaining bardsong: 34/46 rounds remaining
OOC- are all active spells suppressed?
Desdichado (Ryan) [HP: 235/235; AC:29/15/32 (75%fortification) - CMD 38], DR 10/evil Tuesday December 3rd, 2024 7:43:47 PM
Desdichado looks around, shrugs, and figures there's nothing better to do than follow Yrul over to the wagon.
Danko Pureheart (Yves) AC 31/35/36 haste-- CMD 37 -- 111/145 HP Wednesday December 4th, 2024 6:30:52 AM
Danko follows....
Gaffer - Courtney - HP: 217/217 AC: 39(T:22/FF:32) CMD:43) Wednesday December 4th, 2024 6:45:17 AM
Gaffer has a vaguely familiar feeling about the wagon, and he thinks back to the hut they recently travelled through but he isn't sure and so he quietly follows with the group. "Let's be polite, does somebody want to call out?"
Hmerrin (MikeK)(HP 261/261 AC:38 T:24 FF:30 CMD:51) DR 5/-, Sickened Wednesday December 4th, 2024 10:25:16 AM
"Yrul's gonna scout them anyway, we might as well agree it was the plan all along," Hmerrin chuckles. "Plus, I get the feeling we're supposed to be right here."
He keeps the rest of the group together, moving toward the wagon. Should they get within hailing distance prior to Yrul saying anything, he'll follow Gaffer's advice, calling out "Hello to the wagon! May we approach?"
The Painted Wagon… coDM SteveK Wednesday December 4th, 2024 11:59:45 AM
Even on Yrul's worst day, she is awfully stealthy, she can't see much because there are no windows and the door is shut. She places a foot on the bottom stair and while she thinks it is noisy, she really didn't make that much noise, and only the barest wiggle as she puts her weight on the step.
Gaffer reminds everyone about what happened with the Chicken-Hut-That-Ate-OddHolme-City, but as the others move forward, the druid follows Danko, Desdichado, and Ramirez.
Hmerrin (and Nira) also follow, and the fighter gives out a hearty "Hello to the wagon!"
...............
The door in front of Yrul opens and out comes two beings. The first is a human with a long white beard, skinny as a rail, and dressed in fur-lined red wizard robes: he looks stern and merry all at once. The second is a minotaur, very shaggy and enormous even by minotaur standards, his face appearing mischievous and gloating in equal measure. The Tide seems to have interrupted a discussion:
(H)"Now whats going on?" (M) "I told you we couldn't stay here." (H)"Of course we can't stay here, I have a mission to do!" (M)"No less than I!" (H)"Yes, yes, no less than you, but that's not what I meant, and you know it!"
’Oh, Greetings and salutations and Hello and all that.’ Yrûl blurted as she hastily stepped back, not wanting to get stepped on by the immense minotaur.
’Do you by chance come this way often?’ She asked hopefully and with a winning smile. It was always best to smile, at least at the start. That’s what she always told Snickit and Dabz. You simply do not open a conversation by sticking pointy bits of metal into their flesh. It was a concept with which they struggled.
~~~
Resist Acid Endure Elements. DR10/- in Dim Light. +2 to Saves in Dim Light. “Callie” Ioun Stone 4/50 spell levels absorbed. (8th and below) Shadow step: 30’/360’ per day. Greater Shadow Conjuration: 0./4 per day. Shadow Illusion 0/5 per day (as Silent image) Shadow Evocation 1/2 per day
~~~
Yrûl’s little friends…. Snickit & Dabz (a pair of matched picks.) Syd (a sling and female to Yrul’s mind) Peabo (a dark blue butterfly: ioun stone) Callie (a lavender & green butterfly: ioun stone) Aggerz (a pale green dragonfly: ioun stone) Tolly (aka Sir Tolmenedes Goodhew - an iridescent bumblebee: ioun stone)
~~~
Desdichado (Ryan) [HP: 235/235; AC:29/15/32 (75%fortification) - CMD 38], DR 10/evil Wednesday December 4th, 2024 6:04:26 PM
"Hello!" Desdichado adds his voice to the greetings.
"So, when you say you can't 'stay here' - would you mind telling us exactly where 'here' is? We've just recently ended up in this location after a big magical gate exploded."
RobC - Nira Wynvyre -- AC 35*/19*/29* -- CMD 27 -- HP 170/170 -- Arcane Sight, DarkVision, See Invisibility Wednesday December 4th, 2024 6:58:03 PM "Ah, yes, sorry to have interrupted you" Nira says, stepping forward with a small, apologetic smile. "We're a little lost, you see, and when we saw your caravan, we thought perhaps there might be someone who could explain a bit about where we are."
She pauses for a moment, glancing around before adding, "I don't suppose you could help us?"
Ramirez (BrianZ) AC36/24(touch) HP 190/190 CMD38 Wednesday December 4th, 2024 9:00:38 PM Well, they seem friendly. Hopefully they can give us directions.
Used: 1 charge from endure elements wand 1 charge from resist energy wand Spells: 5/6 level 2 remaining 5/6 level 3 remaining 3/5 level 4 remaining bardsong: 34/46 rounds remaining
Hmerrin (MikeK)(HP 261/261 AC:38 T:24 FF:30 CMD:51) DR 5/-, Sickened d20+29=39 Wednesday December 4th, 2024 9:11:22 PM
Hmerrin nods along as the others describe their predicament.
"Also, if you happened to know how we could get back to Dirt City, that'd also be a big help," he adds.
The fighter reflexively looks over the wagon, its occupants, and the surrounding area for signs of danger. [Perception 39]
Danko Pureheart (Yves) AC 31/35/36 haste-- CMD 37 -- 111/145 HP Thursday December 5th, 2024 6:07:02 AM
Danko waves in a friendly manner at the two travellers...
" .... 'Sup.... want an orange? "
The Offer… coDM SteveK Thursday December 5th, 2024 8:42:42 AM
Yrûl greets and saluds the waggoneers, have they come this way often?
Desdichado adds his voice to the greetings, and is interested in more specifics about the human and minotaur’s problem. Oh, and where is ‘here’?
Nira concedes they are sorry to have interrupted the gentlemen, and admits they are a little lost, and were hoping for a little help?
Ramirez keeps silent but hopes they can give directions.
Hmerrin nods along as the others describe their predicament, and mentions needing to get back to Dirt City. Looking over the wagon, occupants, and area, he doesn’t see any immediate danger, but does notice two things. The first is the caravan’s traces, the harnesses to attach animals to the caravan all seem to be in place but no sign of animals. The second is both these fellas move like they know how to handle themselves.
Danko waves in a friendly manner at the two travelers and offers and orange.
……………..
The red robed man and shaggy minotaur turn as one to see the heroes gathering about, and both have disturbing, direct gazes that makes one feel they are looking right through to one’s soul.
The minotaur licks his cheeks with a forked tongue. (M) “There are only seven but we can hitch these up to get on with it.” (H) “Don’t be absurd. They are not for you.” (M) “But look at them covered in blood! They would be perfect for Perchtenlaufen!” (H) “Teasing again. Too much is a question of poor morality.”
The enormous minotaur only looks mockingly at the bearded man, in a blatant attempt at questioning the human’s sanity, but says nothing. The skinny, robed man now addresses the Tide directly.
”My, my, my! We are in a bit of a hurry, aren’t we? However, the running of our team has us behind our time. Still, the traditions must be observed. You can offer my companion here some distilled fruit brandy or something similarly alcoholic, and provide me an empty item you possess: a sack or shoe or the like. He may then leave off any ideas of whisking you away and I might be inclined to answer your wish list of questions!”
.............
The heroes have the initiative
Gaffer - Courtney - HP: 217/217 AC: 39(T:22/FF:32) CMD:43) Thursday December 5th, 2024 9:01:48 AM
Gaffer pulls out a bottle of whiskey from his bag, "It's not the finest stuff in the world, but it's my go to when I'm back after a long adventure, you're welcome to it if you would like?" He offers it up, worried about what coutns as acceptable.
Hmerrin (MikeK)(HP 261/261 AC:38 T:24 FF:30 CMD:51) DR 5/- d6=5 ; d6=6 ; d20+13=22 ; Thursday December 5th, 2024 9:16:57 AM {On your toes, friends. These two could be big trouble.}
Hmerrin reaches into his haversack and pulls out a small iron pot. "Will this do?" he asks, handing it over to Skinny Red Guy.
"Gonna have to add, we're not inclined to be whisked away. But perhaps we could help find your team." [Sense Motive 22 on the fellas]
Desdichado (Ryan) [HP: 235/235; AC:29/15/32 (75%fortification) - CMD 38], DR 10/evil Thursday December 5th, 2024 7:32:59 PM
Desdichado patiently waits as Gaffer and Hmerrin look through their belongings. Hmerrin particularly reminds Desdichado of a peddler opening his pack.
"Yule...ahem...you'll forgive us, please, for any unintended rudeness," he says to the two figures. "We'd hate to get on your list of not-so-nice people. Your companion there looks like he could swat us all without much effort."
(OOC: I love this encounter!)
Ramirez (BrianZ) AC36/24(touch) HP 190/190 CMD38 Thursday December 5th, 2024 8:29:00 PM Hmm, I dont seem to have any sacks or alcohol, but I do have an entertainer's outfit, complete with 2 shoes if interested. Ramirez offers the shoes(and outfit) if he wants them, but wonders why someone would want such things in this place?
Used: 1 charge from endure elements wand 1 charge from resist energy wand Spells: 5/6 level 2 remaining 5/6 level 3 remaining 3/5 level 4 remaining bardsong: 34/46 rounds remaining
RobC - Nira Wynvyre -- AC 35*/19*/29* -- CMD 27 -- HP 170/170 -- Arcane Sight, DarkVision, See Invisibility Friday December 6th, 2024 2:47:02 AM "Ah... quite the peculiar request" Nira says with a hint of uncertainty. "Distilled fruit brandy, a sack or shoe... you certainly have... interesting tastes." She glances at Gaffer and Hmerrin as they offer their items.
Nira looks over her companions, ensuring they're ready, but her eyes remain watchful, her mind racing with the possibilities of what could unfold next.
The elf isn't entirely sure where this is going.
Yrûl (Nick K) HP:205/211 AC:33 F:16 R:30 W:9. CMD:40 Friday December 6th, 2024 4:23:19 AM ~~~
It was all happening so swiftly. Items were produced and offered, but Yrûl had no such things to offer and she certainly wasn’t going to have her little friends ‘hitched’ up to anything! She decided it would be best to remain silent. After all, she didn’t need to ask any questions, so those that had kindly offered things could do the asking. Besides, she was far from certain that she actually liked the two strangers.
~~~
Resist Acid Endure Elements. DR10/- in Dim Light. +2 to Saves in Dim Light. “Callie” Ioun Stone 4/50 spell levels absorbed. (8th and below) Shadow step: 30’/360’ per day. Greater Shadow Conjuration: 0./4 per day. Shadow Illusion 0/5 per day (as Silent image) Shadow Evocation 1/2 per day
~~~
Yrûl’s little friends…. Snickit & Dabz (a pair of matched picks.) Syd (a sling and female to Yrul’s mind) Peabo (a dark blue butterfly: ioun stone) Callie (a lavender & green butterfly: ioun stone) Aggerz (a pale green dragonfly: ioun stone) Tolly (aka Sir Tolmenedes Goodhew - an iridescent bumblebee: ioun stone)
~~~
Mmmmm, Whisky… coDM SteveK Friday December 6th, 2024 8:12:00 AM
Gaffer pulls out a bottle of whiskey from his bag, offering it up, but worried about what counts as acceptable.
Hmerrin warns his friends, but obligingly reaches into his haversack and pulls out a small iron pot, and offers to find their team of beasts. Try as he might, he can’t get a bead on what either of them are thinking.
Desdichado patiently waits as Gaffer and Hmerrin look through their belongings, still talking and trying to be diplomatic.
Ramirez doesn’t seem to have any sacks or alcohol, but does offer the shoes from his Entertainer’s Outfit.
Nira comments about the peculiar requests, not entirely sure where this is going…
Yrûl decides it would be best (for her) to remain silent, far from certain that she actually liked the two strangers.
……………..
It is impossible for the leering minotaur to appear innocent as he swiftly steps beside Gaffer. (He smells like wet goat) ”Let’s find out, shall we?” He grabs the offered whisky and uncorks it, taking a sniff. Then, with a grin, he downs the entire bottle! It doesn’t seem to affect the minotaur, who only grins wider. "Okay! Accepted!" And then he vanishes! Spellcraft DC30 Highlight to display spoiler: {(The minotaur cast Plane Shift with no verbal, somatic, or focus!)}
The stern, skinny man shakes his head at his departed companion (Hmerrin thinks it is in resignation), then turns to Hmerrin, his eyes merrily twiinkling. ”Yes, that will do, Hmerrin of Merrydale, and, I’ll give you the gift of an answer. The way to Dirt City is to cast Greater Teleport to align this plane to the location right next to Dirt City, and then Plane Shift to get to the Wold plane. As for help, I’ll be able to get my team well enough, but there is another thing that you can do for me, but before that…”
He turns to the Bard. ”Yes, Ramirez Zellen, those are very festive shoes, and I would be happy to fill them for a good soul, but you haven’t asked of me anything that you want. Nor has any other good soul who has asked provided a personally owned empty item.” He looks at the others with a nod and wink.
.............
The heroes have the initiative
Yrûl (Nick K) HP:205/211 AC:33 F:16 R:30 W:9. CMD:40 d20+31=46 ; Friday December 6th, 2024 9:39:32 AM ~~~
Yrûl was still far from certain that she could trust the man. Yes, he’d apparently helped them find the way ‘home’, but why did he need payment for that. Surely a good person would simply help a person in need? She decided that she didn’t want anything from him. She’d remain silent and cling to the shadows, which were far more friendly in her opinion. So, comforted by those shadows Yrûl watched and waited. She refrained from actually hiding in the gloom because she want that construed as a potential, pending attack.
Perception: 46 vs any sleight of hand/dissembling.
~~~
Resist Acid Endure Elements. DR10/- in Dim Light. +2 to Saves in Dim Light. “Callie” Ioun Stone 4/50 spell levels absorbed. (8th and below) Shadow step: 30’/360’ per day. Greater Shadow Conjuration: 0./4 per day. Shadow Illusion 0/5 per day (as Silent image) Shadow Evocation 1/2 per day
~~~
Yrûl’s little friends…. Snickit & Dabz (a pair of matched picks.) Syd (a sling and female to Yrul’s mind) Peabo (a dark blue butterfly: ioun stone) Callie (a lavender & green butterfly: ioun stone) Aggerz (a pale green dragonfly: ioun stone) Tolly (aka Sir Tolmenedes Goodhew - an iridescent bumblebee: ioun stone)
~~~
Hmerrin (MikeK)(HP 261/261 AC:38 T:24 FF:30 CMD:51) DR 5/- Friday December 6th, 2024 4:40:13 PM
Odd. But not really the oddest scenario he's dealt with. The fighter nods and waits politely.
{Sounds like Red is exchanging gifts for empty containers,} Hmerrin reasons to the group. {I got mine, but the rest of you could see what happens.}
Ramirez (BrianZ) AC36/24(touch) HP 190/190 CMD38 Friday December 6th, 2024 5:35:16 PM Well, the only thing I want, really is to prevent the Maharaja from destroying Dirt City. Would you be able to cast one or both of those spells for us in exchange?
Used: 1 charge from endure elements wand 1 charge from resist energy wand Spells: 5/6 level 2 remaining 5/6 level 3 remaining 3/5 level 4 remaining bardsong: 34/46 rounds remaining
Desdichado (Ryan) [HP: 235/235; AC:29/15/32 (75%fortification) - CMD 38], DR 10/evil Saturday December 7th, 2024 10:56:35 PM
"Peace across the Wold might be nice, but I suppose that's too much to ask," says Desdichado.
He digs around through his pack for an empty container that can be filled. He doesn't see much that looks hopeful, so he goes with a tried and true method of removing one of his Boots of Striding and Springing and holding it out.
"Whatever you feel is appropriate, sir," he says to the man in red. "...there is one thing, though I don't know if it would be possible: A painting to put in the main hall at Tide House that includes the members past and present. I think that would be a nice way to show visitors the story of the Tide from the beginning up until now."
RobC - Nira Wynvyre -- AC 35*/19*/29* -- CMD 27 -- HP 170/170 -- Arcane Sight, DarkVision, See Invisibility Sunday December 8th, 2024 6:49:26 PM
Nira retrieves an empty glass vial from her kit, turning it over in her hand as she observes the strange man’s reaction to the other offered items.
Seeing that nothing bad has happened so far, she steps forward and offers the vial to him.
Gaffer - Courtney - HP: 217/217 AC: 39(T:22/FF:32) CMD:43) Sunday December 8th, 2024 7:05:38 PM
Gaffer takes a few acorns out of his bag, taps a few while listening closely, and then breaks the top off of one, showing it to be hollow inside. He'll hand it over as his empty item.
He can't help but smile at Des' request, and it is enough to pull him away from more selfish desires of ways for his spells to bypass resistance, to something that was on his mind for after their current adventure.
"Would it be possible for Tide House to be made more robust? so that it could be a safer shelter in future."
Danko Pureheart (Yves) AC 31/35/36 haste-- CMD 37 -- 111/145 HP Monday December 9th, 2024 6:33:26 AM
Danko takes one of his empty pouches and offers it....
" For me and my friends to be well rested, fully healed and have regained our spells for the day.... essentially a safe place for us to sleep for the night.... Of and a pickle... I'd really want a pickle... "
Gifts for the Wise Ones… coDM SteveK Monday December 9th, 2024 8:22:13 AM
Yrûl is far from certain that she can trust the red wizard-man, and stays silent, comforted by the surrounding shadows.
Hmerrin reasons to the group via telepathy: Sounds like Red is exchanging gifts for empty containers. The man seems to have heard the private telepathic conversation, because he winks at Hmerrin and gives him back his little cauldron.
Ramirez asks ‘Red’ for a couple of spells to help prevent the Maharaja from destroying Dirt City. ‘Red’ laughs heartily (he has quite the high voice) and returns the Bard his entertainers shoes, but there are two scrolls in them! Opening them up, they are I.O.U.s; one for Greater Teleport and one for Plane Shift.
Desdichado digs around through his pack before simply taking off a Boot of Striding and Springing! ”I always did prefer shoes to stockings, Ferrin Arveløse.” ‘Red’ mumbles appreciatively. He looks in the boot and then returns it to the Paladin. Inside is a small cloth patch (Nira, Danko, and Ramirez instantly recognize a Shrink Item spell. The patch looks like a framed portrait of the seven heroes of The Tide; Hmerrin, Gaffer, Desdichado, Nira, Ramirez, Danko, and Yrûl; standing in the Foyer of Tide House under Gaffer’s enormous oak tree. Hidden in the tree, the stonework, and the air are other faces with the symbols of their expertise and a scrolled name so that any may recognize them: - Sarge the dwarf cleric and Toston the gnome monk/sorcerer/dragon disciple, long time Tide members that were called away to family matters. - Eisenhorne the wizard and Sharpe the ranger who fought Rakshasa with the Tide for a time. - Hmerrin and Gaffer recognize Wil, Lornak, Ethani, and Asteria who left for the sea just before the Rakshasa incursions became known. - Then there is Dusan, Wil, Var, Talanthrel, and Alizar: faces known only to Hmerrin. - And some peeking out that not even the longest serving member of The Tide knows, Avin the wizard, Ashley the human fighter, Broom the dwarfin monk, Roy the elfin ranger, and Gilmek the gnomish bard.
Nira retrieves an empty glass vial, and seeing nothing bad has happened so far, offers it to ‘Red’. The skinny man looks grave as he hands the vial back to the elf-girl. ”You have asked what you are certain to have known, Nira Wynvyre: that when you saw our caravan, that you are in the Realm of Shadows, that existence where things can travel to other planes. All planes are connected here, although the pathways are often hidden. The strongest connection is between the Wold and the Lands of Rest and Unrest, and you can see the link by the threads of Woldsblood that travel from the Wold to the destinations of afterlife. The Woldsblood that is literally life of every living thing on the Wold. The Woldsblood that you yourself take from the threads and use when creating your spells. You have grown great in your power, and your own spirit shows the scars where you understand the responsibilities that come intertwined with that power.”
Red momentarily ignores Gaffer and looks to the dragon sorcerer. Danko has two belt pouches, and empties one to offer takes one of his empty pouches and offers it. ‘Red’ takes the pouch and puts it in the folds of his own robes, and pulls out another pouch made of a Kelly green leather. ”At last, a practical request!” he laughs.
GIFT ITEM: Pickle Pouch. As a move action, you may retrieve 1 pickle that is perfect for the taste of the creature that retrieves the pickle. Once used, it becomes a non-magical pouch. (Presented 9 Dec 24 by DM SteveK on CMTC Board. Good until 1 Mar 25)
Gaffer finds a hollow acorn in his bag and presents that as his empty item. ‘Red’ smiles sadly as he briefly holds the empty vessel before returning it to the druid wrapped in the tiniest green bow. ”The first one to offer whisky to my travelling companion, and always considering how to defend others; you are certainly on my list of good people! But I have nothing to give Tide House to be stronger than its current owners. But what would make your home a beacon for all good creatures is for those very beings to have trust and confidence in you, and to do that they will need to know you are more than simply powerful, but kind to those who have no power. So this is my Gift and my request to you all in one.”
………………….
“I will use too much time here, and I will not be able to visit your city as I originally had planned: but you, all of you, can. Open this acorn when I fulfill Ramirez’ I.O.Us and visit the people of Dirt City who have little say in their daily lives; the children, the grubbers, the unlucky, the visitors, and the folk who huddle afraid in the Undercity. Provide them your time, your patience, and what little gifts that may be found within this acorn. In that way, you can assist me, and make Tide House stronger through the hope and belief of the people.”
The gifts are done. Each empty container, be it shoe or cauldron, vial or acorn, has been returned filled with something: knowledge, promise, or task. As the Tide gathers up; ‘Red’ casts his spells, but with a somantic component that sounds more like a blessing.
Be an example of a life of charity and love. See in this life an invitation to imitate good deeds. Be always mindful of the needs of others and rejoice in the abundance of goodness around you!
And the heroes are back at Dirt City, but not as they expect. The last rays of a westering Thermo angle in from the windows the Tide recognize as the dining room of Tide House, and it is not destroyed!!!
Yrûl (Nick K) HP:205/211 AC:33 F:16 R:30 W:9. CMD:40 d20+31=38 ; Monday December 9th, 2024 11:51:38 AM ~~~
[i[‘Oh, did we sort of travel backwards through time or something?’[/i] Yrûl mentally queried with the others. Wasn’t there another task that they were supposed to do before restoring everything as it was? OR! Maybe this was a trick of that devious red man. She really had no way of telling, but drew some solace from the man’s words. She hadn’t trusted him at all and didn’t regret that, but had advised them to be good and to bring some cheer to those worse off than themselves. That sounded more than reasonable. That sounded like something the world’s most colourful shadow dancer should be doing every day! Her little friends all agreed. Bringing joy was definitely on the agenda.
Perception: 38 to notice anything anomalous.
~~~
Resist Acid Endure Elements. DR10/- in Dim Light. +2 to Saves in Dim Light. “Callie” Ioun Stone 4/50 spell levels absorbed. (8th and below) Shadow step: 0’/360’ per day. Greater Shadow Conjuration: 0./4 per day. Shadow Illusion 0/5 per day (as Silent image) Shadow Evocation 1/2 per day
~~~
Yrûl’s little friends…. Snickit & Dabz (a pair of matched picks.) Syd (a sling and female to Yrul’s mind) Peabo (a dark blue butterfly: ioun stone) Callie (a lavender & green butterfly: ioun stone) Aggerz (a pale green dragonfly: ioun stone) Tolly (aka Sir Tolmenedes Goodhew - an iridescent bumblebee: ioun stone)
~~~
Danko Pureheart (Yves) AC 31/35/36 haste-- CMD 37 -- 111/145 HP Monday December 9th, 2024 5:02:54 PM
Danko is over joyed with the gift!
" NIIICE. I'm going to save this for a special occasion! Thank you! "
Hmerrin (MikeK)(HP 261/261 AC:38 T:24 FF:30 CMD:51) DR 5/- Monday December 9th, 2024 5:34:06 PM
"I think we're on a bit of a side quest," Hmerrin answers Yrul, while looking around the dining room of Tide House. "As to time, I've no idea."
"Red asked for Gaffer to open the acorn once he'd zapped us back here, so I guess that's next. Then we wing it. We've always been good at winging it."
Ramirez (BrianZ) AC36/24(touch) HP 190/190 CMD38 Monday December 9th, 2024 10:07:44 PM
Ramirez looks around for their houseguests, to see if they are allright.
Used: 1 charge from endure elements wand 1 charge from resist energy wand Spells: 5/6 level 2 remaining 5/6 level 3 remaining 3/5 level 4 remaining bardsong: 34/46 rounds remaining
Desdichado (Ryan) [HP: 235/235; AC:29/15/32 (75%fortification) - CMD 38], DR 10/evil Monday December 9th, 2024 11:52:30 PM
"Thank you!" Desdichado beams with pleasure taking a lingering look at the miniature painting. Once they have restored Dirt City he'll certainly want help from the others finding the perfect spot to mount this in Tide House.
As they are whisked back to a seemingly restored Tide House, the paladin stands with anticipation of what Gaffer's gift will do. 'Red's' advice went right to his heart - he hadn't had time in quite a while to hand out the little candies or small toys he keeps in his backpack. He hopes they'll have a chance to spread some of that hope and cheer now.
RobC - Nira Wynvyre -- AC 35*/19*/29* -- CMD 27 -- HP 170/170 -- Arcane Sight, DarkVision, See Invisibility Tuesday December 10th, 2024 2:58:43 AM
Nira cradles the vial in her hand. "Thank you" she says, her tone sincere. "Believe me, I understand the power of Woldsblood, and the responsibility that comes with it." She pauses for a moment, her gaze drifting briefly to her friends. "It's easy to forget sometimes, with all the spells and magic flowing through me, that I'm not just using power. It's... the essence of life itself".
With the moment over, and the man has said his farewell, Nira is glad to find herself back in the Tide House. "Did it work? Did we save the town?" Without a second thought, she strides to the window and pulls back the curtain, eager to see what the town looks like.
Evening at Tide House ... coDM SteveK Tuesday December 10th, 2024 7:06:32 AM
Yrûl has several thoughts flit through her head, but the one that sticks is Shadowdancers can bring cheer to people every day! Looking about, she doesn’t notice anything anomalous, but then, she would only know things really really out of place anyways, because she never left the Hut’s door the last and only time she visited Dirt City…
Danko is over joyed with the gift!
Hmerrin thinks they just received a ‘side quest’, a WLA term that equates to a separate task not connected with their current adventure. With a nod to Gaffer and a quip, the fighter goes to one of the two things he is best at: winging it!
Ramirez looks around the dining room, and can see Jasper, the Tide’s man-of-all-work standing in the doorway, a mildly surprised look on his face. (Sense Motive DC 20: Highlight to display spoiler: {This has been the most emotion Jasper has ever displayed, he is absolutely stunned!}) ”Ah, was just closing up. Posie will want…” As if the sound of her name were a summoning spell, Jasper’s wife and the Tide’s cook shows up and completes her husband’s sentence. ”… to welcome you back and get some food in you. My goodness, you are nothing but skin and bone and so dirty! Maybe a good bath first… or a hosing down and then a bath. Jasper! Don’t just stand there, get the laundry ready!”
Desdichado beams with pleasure taking a lingering look at the miniature painting. He hopes they'll have a chance to spread some hope and cheer now.
Nira cradles the vial in her hand, thankful for the reminder and explains to her friends. It is only then, that she sees ‘Red’s’ wisdom: his explanation was as much for the other heroes as it was for Nira! When she finds herself back at Tide House, she goes to a window and looks out... and sees the courtyard of Tide House. Gaffer’s tree is planted in the center, and it looks deserted, which is normal for this time of day where most of the resident’s are having an evening meal. …………..
Posie's words recall to the heroes that they are still as dirty and bloody as they were when the Gate imploded and they were suddenly in the Realms of Shadow. It probably hasn't been but a few minutes since the Gate, and Hmerrin, Yrûl, and Desdichado are is still covered in Bandersnatch blood; Ramirez and Danko have 'Snatch saliva all over them, and most of the heroes had quills stuck all over them. While their bodies are healed, their clothes, armor, and weapons still bear the grime of that very very recent fight.
The heroes have the initiative.
Gaffer - Courtney - HP: 217/217 AC: 39(T:22/FF:32) CMD:43) Tuesday December 10th, 2024 8:18:10 AM
Gaffer is shocked to see Tide house back standing, and elated to see Jasper and Posie, thoughts of his gift are gone for a moment as he rushes outside to see the rest of the city.
He comes back in a few minutes later and calls to the group. "So, I suggest we all get cleaned up, have a warm meal and then get dressed in some nice clothes and spread some cheer to the city." But he'll hold off on opening the acorn until they are ready to go.
Yrûl (Nick K) HP:205/211 AC:33 F:16 R:30 W:9. CMD:40 Tuesday December 10th, 2024 10:41:11 AM ~~~
‘I like the sound of that.’ Yrûl enthused. The bath was particularly appealing. This place seemed to her, replete with luxuries. She was confident there would be all manner of oils and unguents for that bath. Her hair! She was definitely going to do her hair. Then at her most glamorous and sweet-smelling best she’d certainly be able to bring an abundance of joy and good cheer.
Oh, and there was food. Mushrooms? Oh, surely there’d be mushrooms. Yrûl was not a big meat eater, but did love her mushrooms.
~~~
Resist Acid Endure Elements. DR10/- in Dim Light. +2 to Saves in Dim Light. “Callie” Ioun Stone 4/50 spell levels absorbed. (8th and below) Shadow step: 0’/360’ per day. Greater Shadow Conjuration: 0./4 per day. Shadow Illusion 0/5 per day (as Silent image) Shadow Evocation 1/2 per day
~~~
Yrûl’s little friends…. Snickit & Dabz (a pair of matched picks.) Syd (a sling and female to Yrul’s mind) Peabo (a dark blue butterfly: ioun stone) Callie (a lavender & green butterfly: ioun stone) Aggerz (a pale green dragonfly: ioun stone) Tolly (aka Sir Tolmenedes Goodhew - an iridescent bumblebee: ioun stone)
"Hello Jasper, Posie - Hope we haven't surprised you too much," he winks to the two. "A nice dinner sounds wonderful. I think we'll be about the town after that."
"Say, you wouldn't be able to tell us what today is could you? We've lost track of time ourselves."
Danko Pureheart (Yves) AC 31/35/36 haste-- CMD 37 -- 111/145 HP Tuesday December 10th, 2024 6:54:23 PM
"...... and I'm going to try to find a game of bones.... daddy needs some ale money! "
Hmerrin (MikeK)(HP 261/261 AC:38 T:24 FF:30 CMD:51) DR 5/- Tuesday December 10th, 2024 7:24:16 PM
Hmerrin takes in the looks of Jasper and Posie and follows their gaze to look down at himself.
"Oh. Right."
He claps his hands together at Gaffer's suggestion. "Bath it is. Then dinner. THEN we'll see about this acorn.
The fighter commences to find a place to clean himself, his weapons and his armor, while getting into a change of clothes and leaving the bloody garments for Posie.
Then, he's at the table, ready to devour whatever is placed before him.
Ramirez (BrianZ) AC36/24(touch) HP 190/190 CMD38 Tuesday December 10th, 2024 9:46:16 PM
Ramirez goes to get a change of clothes, then uses prestidigitation liberally, offering to clean up anyone or their clothes as requested. He doesn't want to give Posie too much of their own dirty laundry.
After that, he uses the spell again, to change his cloak into a nice festive shade of red. I kind of like it
There was more to be done, but he doesn't argue with sitting down for a good meal.
Supper Time ... coDM SteveK Wednesday December 11th, 2024 7:48:44 AM
Gaffer, shocked, rushes outside to see the rest of the city. A few minutes as a hawk circling, and the druid can observe the city is completely intact as it ever was. But that doesn’t make sense because they aren’t finished, are they? When he comes back, he suggests a cleaning, a warm meal, entertaining clothes, and spreading some cheer to the city.
Yrûl likes the sound of that, particularly the bath: what luxuries! She silently hopes for bath oils and unguents, and mushrooms for supper.
Desdichado greets their house keepers, and nonchalantly asks for the day. Jasper opens his mouth to speak but Posie beats him to it and rattles off the day, the hour (early evening), and a reminder that dirty heroes don’t get supper, that two large bath tubs are in the unused space behind the stair with a water pump in the kitchen, that the water is cold but she knows heroes have either ways to make it warm or are good at enduring things, but look at her jabbering on when there is a supper to get on the table…
The day Posie mentioned is several weeks after the heroes had left to confront the Maharaja at his other-planar palace, but also several weeks before the heroes had returned to a ruined Dirt City.
Danko, filthy with blood, sweat, and saliva of the very recent Bandersnatch and JubJub fight calls out his intention to be gone most of the night playing games of chance. Jasper is still in the doorway and makes the Sorcerer at least pause because Danko will have to step over or around the gnome. Jasper clears his throat and, looking at the disheveled hero, jerks his head in the direction of the bathtubs.
Hmerrin pauses. Right, bath, then dinner, THEN we'll see about this acorn.
Ramirez goes to get a change of clothes, then casts Prestidigitation to clean up the clothes to not give Jasper too much dirty laundry. Since the spell can only clean a 1-foot cube of 1 item every 6 seconds, it takes him a while, and it can do nothing about little rips and tears in clothing; notches in weapons; or scratches, popped chain links, or popped rivets in armors. Still, Jasper nods with a small smile of gratefulness at the Bard’s helping.
………………….
Cleaning and changing take about an hour, and the sun has set in Dirt City by the time the heroes again gather in the dining room. Posie and Jasper bring out platter after platter of quickly acquired, quickly cooked foods for the Tide to serve themselves: sliced melons and thin ham; a bowl of smashed root veggies, steaming with a bowl of butter and another of salt nearby; a basket of bread rolls with small bowls of jams; a bowl of steamed mushrooms: morels, and bellas, and mouse ears sprinkled with a green aromatic herb; a tureen of lentil soup and another of stew brought over from Tombo’s Tavern; and a haunch of mutton also supplied by Tombo. And there is a sideboard with pitchers, again in a self-serve manner: water, cold tea, ale, and a pale pink wine.
Word has gotten around Tide House that the heroes have returned, and while the Tide tucks in, a steady stream of visitors arrives to discuss this matter or that or just to welcome them home. Tombo has a tavern-full and only sends his regards along with the food, but Mazea (middle-aged dwarven woman whose hands are as tough as the leather she works), Sunny (very pretty human woman who runs the sewing school), and Cinzi (non-descript night watch) all make their appearances.
The heroes can eat their fill and talk with who they wish, though Posie is a whirlwind with non-stop comments and ensuring plates are never empty.
Yrûl did her best. She really did, but far from being the largest and the fact that she was an elf meant that she didn’t feel that she could do justice to the magnificent spread. Still, the mushrooms were divine. She had plenty of those, but still left some room for some lentil soup and a small bowl of stew. The rose coloured wine was a delightful accompaniment. That she was clean and colourful only added to her enjoyment. The prestidigitation spells had really brought her colours back to life. She was effusive in her thanks to all concerned.
Having eaten her fill she considered what to do next. It would be easy enough to head over to the tavern and drag a few people onto the dance floor for a jig or two, but they were likely in good spirits in any case. What appealed to Yrûl more was helping those that weren’t feeling so cheery. Perhaps a small act of kindness could even turn a person away from the path of Darkness, by which she meant Evil. There was nothing inherently wrong with darkness. Without that, where would all the lovely shadows be?
Yrûl had no great need of wealth. She had everything that she needed, so she decided she’d slip through the back alleys of the town and distribute a little wealth to the needy. She wasn’t going to alter anyone’s life forever, but could at least some financial woes for a while and help make whatever festivities they wished to enjoy all the more comfortable and memorable. She was very sneaky, so would eavesdrop a little to ensure that she was helping the right people and then leave the coins where they could be found. She wanted no thanks for this; so was intent on using the shadows to their utmost.
~~~
Ramirez (BrianZ) AC36/24(touch) HP 190/190 CMD38 Wednesday December 11th, 2024 7:24:27 PM The food is excellent as always. Ramirez offers to help clean plates(with or without spell) and then suggests moving to a more comfortable room to meet with the guests.
The Tide still need to discuss what to do with the remaining impending attack on the City, but that can wait for now.
Desdichado (Ryan) [HP: 235/235; AC:29/15/32 (75%fortification) - CMD 38], DR 10/evil Wednesday December 11th, 2024 7:27:42 PM
Desdichado digs in, figuring a healthy appetite goes a long way to show his appreciation for the food. He happily goes and meets with those who've come by to chit-chat. He's a little disappointed Tombo can't make it in person, but he decides to go over to The Buttering Ram at the earliest possible time to make his regards.
As the meal winds down he looks to Gaffer with a raised eyebrow. "The acorn?" he asks archly.
Danko Pureheart (Yves) AC 31/35/36 haste-- CMD 37 -- 111/145 HP Wednesday December 11th, 2024 9:06:47 PM
Danko gets cleaned up and then joins in on the meal. Something seems to be missing… He looks and looks… “ What, no pickles?…”
Danko Pureheart (Yves) AC 31/35/36 haste-- CMD 37 -- 111/145 HP Wednesday December 11th, 2024 9:12:28 PM
Danko gets cleaned up and then joins in on the meal. Something seems to be missing… He looks and looks… “ What, no pickles?…”
Hmerrin (MikeK)(HP 261/261 AC:38 T:24 FF:30 CMD:51) DR 5/- Wednesday December 11th, 2024 9:36:45 PM
Hmerrin makes note of the time travelling conundrum and tries to put it aside. He's pretty sure at some point the Tide will need to deal with Earth monster, and that after they do they'll be bounced around the timescape again. Really nothing for it.
So, he tucks into the meal with relish - bread, ooo and ham, ooo and more bread, oh and some mutton, and the soup is good, and this wine is nice too, and some more ham, wait, ham on bread topped with cheese and veggies, very nice. Some melon, some more wine, some more bread, some more ham.
And now Sunny has appeared and by Alemi its been a very long time since he's seen her. The fellow trips over a chair hurrying over to say hello.
RobC - Nira Wynvyre -- AC 35*/19*/29* -- CMD 27 -- HP 170/170 -- Arcane Sight, DarkVision, See Invisibility Thursday December 12th, 2024 4:37:22 AM "You know" Nira muses "based on the current date, if there’s still a creature left to fight, it would show up in the next few weeks. We might not even need to use the timestone. Simply wait. Then again, using the timestone would get us right to the time of the encounter. We wouldn't be caught by surprise"
She pauses. "It also means we know trouble is coming, so we can prepare or at least make some contingencies."
Her tone turns slightly more serious. For instance, if we were to fall... what would become of our possessions?"
She furrows her brow. "I don’t remember seeing any bodies when we saw the city’s destruction. Maybe that’s because we had time to help everyone evacuate? Maybe we should start doing that now?"
The complexities of time travel and the weight of these possibilities is giving her a headache. With a sigh, Nira decides it’s a puzzle better tackled during a long, hot bath.
Gaffer - Courtney - HP: 217/217 AC: 39(T:22/FF:32) CMD:43) Thursday December 12th, 2024 6:36:32 AM "I think using stone is best, simply to keep the city safe from collatoral damage, but you are right that we should prepare people in case we fail." Gaffer agrees as Nira makes a good point.
But first! Once everyone has eaten, "Yes, the acorn" Gaffer smiles at Des and fetches it from his bag. Gently opening it to see what happens, and what is inside.
The Acorn ... coDM SteveK Thursday December 12th, 2024 10:17:16 AM
The food is excellent, and the visitors welcomed, especially a pretty young thing by Hmerrin who suddenly seems to be tongue-tied and all thumbs. True to her name, Sunny has a bright disposition and seems to enjoy the young fighter's clumsy attention.
Speculation is made about the Time Stone or whether it would be better for just waiting or using the Stone. More is made about time and could they evacuate the city and mess with the future that may never happen if they are successful?
But their main mission is put on hold as focus goes to Gaffer's Acorn. Yrul and Danko are eager do their own thing out in town, but some impetus causes them to still be in the dining room as the druid unties the ribbon. The hollow acorn turns red and its cap is now gold. As Gaffer holds it, it jingles like a little bell and casts a small beam of light at ... Sunny! More lights appear, striking Mazea, Cinzi, Jasper, and Posie.
Perception DC 15 Highlight to display spoiler: { by their reactions, only the Tide can hear the bell and see the lights. }
Sense Motive DC 20 Highlight to display spoiler: { the acorn seems to want a hero to approach everyone with a light. }
Yrûl giggled. The lights were pretty and the bell sounded pleasant. She stood gracefully – as only a dancer can – and with a flourish and a pirouette placed herself in the light next to Jasper. This was possibly quite disconcerting as all of her little friends came darting with her.
~~~
Desdichado (Ryan) [HP: 235/235; AC:29/15/32 (75%fortification) - CMD 38], DR 10/evil d20+22=38 ; d20+28=40 ; Thursday December 12th, 2024 7:11:16 PM
Perception: 38 Sense Motive: 40
Desdichado watches the beams of light in wonder, trying to figure out what is happening. Those in the light don't seem to be noticing it, but something compels Desdichado to find a real light - he looks around for one of the sconces, takes a candle from it, and approaches one of the people nearest him.
Ramirez (BrianZ) AC36/24(touch) HP 190/190 CMD38 d20+22=38 ; d20+22=32 ; Thursday December 12th, 2024 8:20:09 PM
checks both passed
Ramirez doesn't want to possibly alarm their guests, so he tells the Tide over the mindlink. I feel the acorn wants us to approach everyone with a light shining on them. A light only we can see.
With that, he goes and stands next to Posie
Hmerrin (MikeK)(HP 261/261 AC:38 T:24 FF:30 CMD:51) DR 5/- d20+29=37 ; d20+13=31 ; Thursday December 12th, 2024 8:28:17 PM
[Perception 37, Sense Motive 31]
Hmerrin blinks at the sound and the lights. Like several of his friends, he realizes what is what.
Well, if everyone is pairing up, the young man wastes no time in sliding up next to Sunny.
RobC - Nira Wynvyre -- AC 35*/19*/29* -- CMD 27 -- HP 170/170 -- Arcane Sight, DarkVision, See Invisibility Friday December 13th, 2024 2:56:52 AM
Nira agrees with Ram. Best not to startle their guests.
Quietly, she picks up two mugs of ale and strolls across the room. When she reaches Cinzi, she offers one of the mugs with a warm smile.
"Here. We wouldn’t be good hosts if we didn’t offer a steady supply of food and drink."
Her gaze flickers briefly to the acorn and back to Cinzi, careful not to draw attention.
------------ Perception check vs DC15: Autopass Sense Motive check vs DC20: Autopass
Gaffer - Courtney - HP: 217/217 AC: 39(T:22/FF:32) CMD:43) d20+15=32 ; Friday December 13th, 2024 6:07:34 AM
Gaffer concurs with Ram's thoughts and moves closer the five, "Sorry we're acting a bit strange, this is a magical acorn you see and I think there are gifts inside, ones for each of you."
----- Perception: Autopass Sense Motive: 32
Sorry we're acting a bit strange ... coDM SteveK Friday December 13th, 2024 6:57:26 AM
The heroes quickly realize what's what, and walk over to their guests. Yrûl dancing and laughing, Desdichado with a candle, and Nira with a couple mugs of ale. Hmerrin quickly pairs up with Sunny, and Gaffer attempts to explain the group's sudden movement.
But these are long-time friends of the Tide. Jasper and Posie joining those who live at Tide House after the Rakshasa were evicted from Dirt City, the others going all the way back to when the Tide lived at Shale House and have been associated with the group since before Gaffer and Desdichado joined! So they aren't at all concerned about getting closer.
And Gaffer is only partially right, they are giving presents, but they are not appearing from the acorn. The first hero to approach suddenly feels an object in their hand with the feeling to give it to the one the light is outlining. Yrûl gives a small bag of tree nuts to Jasper. Desdichado: a new leather awl to Mazea. Ramirez has a jar of honied fruit for Posie, Hmerrin a statuette of dried fruits and nuts that looks like a man walking, and Nira provides Cinzi a mug which is now bedecked with a snowflake motif and steaming with mulled red wine.
Small gifts, but everyone can see they are quite special to the recipients. Hmerrin gets a hug and kiss on the cheek from Sunny, and Cinzi even cracks a smile! As each gift is given, the light on the person sparkles into them and is no longer seen except in the gratitude shining from their faces.
But the heroes have little time to linger. The lights may have ended on these five, but the acorn jingles again and there are hundreds of threads of light spearing out and away! There are some that go in every direction, but the group realizes there are a some concentrations of lights. Gaffer's innate sense of direction allows him to identify the directions to the others: towards the Temple of Wardd, towards Grubbertown, and downward: to the City Below.
Night is upon them, and they have an urgency to follow every light before the sun rises...
Yrûl (Nick K) HP:205/211 AC:33 F:16 R:30 W:9. CMD:40 Friday December 13th, 2024 10:03:04 AM ~~~
”Oh, looks like we’re going to be busy.” Yrûl beamed in delight. This was fun. She enjoyed the surprise as much as the recipient of the gift. What would the next present be?
[i]’Should we split up and try to encompass as many different areas as possible?’ She queried mentally. She didn’t know her way around, but wasn’t overly worried as she’d just be following glittering trails of lights. Of course, getting back was entirely a different matter and something that never crossed her over-excited mind.
~~~
Desdichado (Ryan) [HP: 235/235; AC:29/15/32 (75%fortification) - CMD 38], DR 10/evil Friday December 13th, 2024 6:47:13 PM
Desdichado's heart warms as the gift appears for Mazea in his hands. "Yes, Yrul, I think splitting up would be a good idea. Don't worry too much about getting lost. Tide House is a pretty noticeable landmark, plus most people can give you good directions. Or you could stick with one of us!"
He decides to make his way to Grubbertown, candle in hand, to start spreading some hope and cheer to the denizens.
Hmerrin (MikeK)(HP 261/261 AC:38 T:24 FF:30 CMD:51) DR 5/- Sunday December 15th, 2024 2:11:30 PM
Hmerrin, wearing a happy grin after Sunny's kiss, nods in agreement with Dez.
"We'll have to split up to cover all of Dirt City in one night. And the danger is pretty limited. Those in the city powerful enough to cause problems also know who we are and should abide by our truce."
"So let's get going!"
The fighter decides to head for Grubbertown, and jogs off, stopping for any light beam targets that happen to be en route."
Ramirez (BrianZ) AC36/24(touch) HP 190/190 CMD38 Sunday December 15th, 2024 9:31:37 PM
A smile on Ramirez' face. Off we go then Ramirez heads for the temple.
RobC - Nira Wynvyre -- AC 35*/19*/29* -- CMD 27 -- HP 170/170 -- Arcane Sight, DarkVision, See Invisibility Monday December 16th, 2024 12:58:32 AM "Splitting up it is. I'll head to the City Below," Nira declares with a nod.
She takes a step toward her room but pauses, turning back to address the guests with a warm smile. "Uh, sorry, we need to step out for a bit. Please, make yourselves comfortable and enjoy the refreshments. Hopefully, we won't be gone too long." No doubt they're already used to the Tide coming and going.
After gathering her gear and ensuring she’s ready, Nira steps out of the Tide House and follows the threads of light.
Danko Pureheart (Yves) AC 31/35/36 haste-- CMD 37 -- 111/145 HP Monday December 16th, 2024 6:28:53 AM
Danko pops back with the group.. the game of bones was as "profitable" as he had hoped and babrely broke even... Seeing the others he smiles and asks...
"Did I miss anything important? ... "
He then follows Nira....
" What did I miss?.... "
Gaffer - Courtney - HP: 217/217 AC: 39(T:22/FF:32) CMD:43) Monday December 16th, 2024 6:48:40 AM
Gaffer chases off after Ram, heading to the temple. "Let's go!"
Yrûl (Nick K) HP:205/211 AC:33 F:16 R:30 W:9. CMD:40 Monday December 16th, 2024 9:32:45 AM ~~~
”The City Below sounds sort of shadowy. Perhaps I could go with you, Nira? Because well, I actually don’t know my way around and neither do any of my little friends..” Yrûl smiled optimistically at Nira.
~~~
A Night of Gifts... coDM SteveK Monday December 16th, 2024 12:33:24 PM
The Tide decide to split up, Ram Dan Gaffer towards Ward’s Temple; dez and Hmerrin into Grubbertown; and Nira accompanied by Danko and Yrul to the City Below. Even separated from the acorn, the heroes can see the lights, and whenever they approach where a light ends in a person, a small gift appears in their hand to give over to surprised and delighted eyes. The lights don’t end with most people, sometimes not even everyone in the same family, but the goodwill of this night seems to permeate all.
There are some things the heroes do know, while most recipients are poorer, less important, and not of the Houses, it is not a universal rule. Gaffer provides a pomegranate to Father Chjarom, a priest and seer of Ward’s Temple he met just before the rise of the Sargrass. And Desdichado comes face-to-face with Darmious Foxx and a small plate of warm oatmeal cookies.
The night goes fast, and as the sun rises, the Tide return to their dining room, tired and satisfied of a job well done.
”That was fun.” Yrûl beamed. ”Um...I don’t want to put anyone to undue trouble, but could we magic up another bath?” She asked optimistically. Snickit and Dabz were far less keen on the ‘bath’ idea. They wanted to ‘stab things’. That then led to a protracted argument over the merits of ‘stabbing things’ over generally being constructively helpful. It resulted in the weapons taking one viewpoint and the glittering, flying insect-stones taking a very different one. Finally Yrûl resolved matters by telling them that they were all right; it just depended on the situation. ~~~
Resist Acid Endure Elements. DR10/- in Dim Light. +2 to Saves in Dim Light. “Callie” Ioun Stone 4/50 spell levels absorbed. (8th and below) Shadow step: 0’/360’ per day. Greater Shadow Conjuration: 0./4 per day. Shadow Illusion 0/5 per day (as Silent image) Shadow Evocation 1/2 per day
~~~
Yrûl’s little friends…. Snickit & Dabz (a pair of matched picks.) Syd (a sling and female to Yrul’s mind) Peabo (a dark blue butterfly: ioun stone) Callie (a lavender & green butterfly: ioun stone) Aggerz (a pale green dragonfly: ioun stone) Tolly (aka Sir Tolmenedes Goodhew - an iridescent bumblebee: ioun stone)
~~~
Hmerrin (MikeK)(HP 261/261 AC:38 T:24 FF:30 CMD:51) DR 5/- Monday December 16th, 2024 5:40:17 PM
Hmerrin races through Grubbertown and the rest of the city, turning his partnership with Dez into a competition on who can reach the most lights.
At the end of the night, he arrives at Tide House.
"That was fun! But I really need a nap. Good night, er, day all."
The young man heads to his room and gets a few hours sleep.
Ramirez (BrianZ) AC36/24(touch) HP 190/190 CMD38 Monday December 16th, 2024 7:06:44 PM That felt...good. We should do that every year.
I'm a little hungry after all that running around. Are there any cookies?
Desdichado (Ryan) [HP: 235/235; AC:29/15/32 (75%fortification) - CMD 38], DR 10/evil Monday December 16th, 2024 7:07:38 PM
Desdichado is quite surprised to meet Darmious Foxx -- the paladin never has quite completely trusted him -- and even more surprised to be handing him a gift!
"Enjoy your gift" he exclaims, "and maybe you can share one of the cookies if you have a mind to."
On his way back to Tide House, he looks around to see what effects the gift giving has had on the town. Maybe Dirt City is a little more peaceful, even if just for one night.
RobC - Nira Wynvyre -- AC 35*/19*/29* -- CMD 27 -- HP 170/170 -- Arcane Sight, DarkVision, See Invisibility Tuesday December 17th, 2024 3:12:24 AM
Nira enters the house, her eyes scanning for any signs of their guests from the night before.
"I'm not sure about cookies" she replies with a small smile, "but breakfast sounds good. Bacon and toast, definitely."
She gives the room one last look, before turning her attention back to the morning preparations.
Gaffer - Courtney - HP: 217/217 AC: 39(T:22/FF:32) CMD:43) Tuesday December 17th, 2024 5:45:20 AM
Gaffer doesn't regroup with the Tide straight away, but takes in the sun rise with a morning flight. The whole night has been a great reminder of what, and who they are protecting, and he wants to savour it for moment longer.
A Morning of Recovery... coDM SteveK Tuesday December 17th, 2024 7:09:08 AM
There had been surprises all about on the Tide's 'night of gifts'. Yrûl was able to entice a running monologue from Nira on the City Below; that nearly half the City lived down in the tunnels that were once sewers but have been made much more habitable over many generations. That there was a truce among the Houses to not have violence or other... activities in the City Below: it was a safe space dating all the way back to two star-crossed lovers who died: Violet and Arturo.
Desdichado notices that Darmious Foxx is as surprised as the paladin, but his schooled expression betrays no thought other than a murmured "I thank you for the Gift", and a consideration in his eyes.
Gaffer notices near the end of the night that there are significantly less lights coming out of his acorn, and he is able to count them down as he and his friends race across the City. 3... 2... 1... And when the last Gift is delivered, the acorn jingles once and disappears.
..................
In the gathering dining room, Jasper and Tombo are there to greet the returning heroes because they are just setting up a continental-style meal, the sideboard having slices of meats, cheeses, and melons; warm rolls of wheat or rye or barley that when the crust is torn with a satisfying 'crackle' the aroma fills the room with mouthwatering yeastiness; and strong herbal tea or coffee or spring water for drinks. Tombo beams. "Ah, I missed you last night, very busy, but I am glad to see you in the morn! I am just off for my own bed but thought I could bring over some victuals as a little birdy told me you were quite active last night!"
OOC: Next Game... coDM SteveK Tuesday December 17th, 2024 10:48:24 AM
OOC: For Thistleport Restart Game (this will be deleted NLT 20 DEC)
We have 5 of 7 PCs announced for Thistleport, but Rob and SteveK still need some infomation:
Brian Zappe - Species, Lineage, and Class Courtney Henson - Species, Lineage, and Class Yves Bouchard - Species, Lineage for your Fighter Ryan Baker - Lineage for your Gnome Bard
Gaffer - Courtney - HP: 217/217 AC: 39(T:22/FF:32) CMD:43) Tuesday December 17th, 2024 1:09:33 PM
[Thistleport]
I am thinking a Dwarf; Sorcerer (eventually clockwork soul) Are we restricted to the three listed abilities scores for a background? I'm unclear if those are suggestions or required.
Dan K DM CMTC Tuesday December 17th, 2024 2:39:44 PM
DM Dan K: the ability scores listed in Background are the only option for that background. Increase one ability by 2 points and another by 1 point OR increase each ability by 1 Point
”Oh yes, that was strange – strange but very satisfying – just like that food. Um, not that it’s strange, I mean. I’ll just be quiet and eat something” Yrûl declared before promptly filling her mouth with some fresh bread mounted with a particularly pungent hard cheese, which in turn was topped with a beetroot relish. She washed it down with some cool water.
A bath or magical clean up and some time in a soft bed seemed most appealing. ~~~
Desdichado (Ryan) [HP: 235/235; AC:29/15/32 (75%fortification) - CMD 38], DR 10/evil Tuesday December 17th, 2024 5:47:33 PM
Desdichado gives a friendly slap on the back to Tombo. "I'm glad you could stop by! Thanks for the vittles last night - they were delicious."
He grabs a bite to eat, goes to his room to get some rest, and comes back downstairs a while later hoping to enjoy some more 'downtime' with friends and visitors before they have to face the final element from the time device.
(OOC: Forest gnome for the 5E character.)
Gaffer - Courtney - HP: 217/217 AC: 39(T:22/FF:32) CMD:43) Tuesday December 17th, 2024 6:50:37 PM
Gaffer watches with a smile as the final light vanishes, the acorn held expectantly in his hand as it vanishes.
He is happy to join the others for a meal and relax a while without a dire fight quite on the immediate horizon.
He also makes sure to pick up a replacement for his whiskey seeing as the last came in so handy. Possible evacuation plans for the city can wait a day at least.
Hmerrin (MikeK)(HP 261/261 AC:38 T:24 FF:30 CMD:51) DR 5/- Tuesday December 17th, 2024 7:07:30 PM
Hmerrin naps a good four or five hours, but the smell of coffee from downstairs reminds his sleeping self that he is hungry.
The fellow gets dressed and bounds down the stairs.
"Good morning!" He glances outside. "Or maybe afternoon. Whatever, did you leave any food?" His eyes light up as he spies the sideboard and he dives in.
As he chews, he wonders aloud, "we're still here. Maybe we meet the next one here in Dirt City? Though not sure we want to wait and just hit Gaffer's teleporter once more. Thoughts?"
Ramirez (BrianZ) AC36/24(touch) HP 190/190 CMD38 Tuesday December 17th, 2024 8:43:24 PM Well, I think we can wait to decide until after we eat and rest. Ramirez says with a wink. And then he tucks into the food, thanking Jasper and Tombo in between bites.
Danko Pureheart (Yves) AC 31/35/36 haste-- CMD 37 -- 111/145 HP Wednesday December 18th, 2024 6:32:08 AM
" ..... Baaaaaacon..... Ilike bacon..... and some bread and jam please.... and a cold mug of milk... "
A Little R&R... coDM SteveK Wednesday December 18th, 2024 7:23:24 AM
The heroes all seem happily tired and hungry, and each make a beeline for their heart's desire. Dirt City is just a little nicer place than before, and many hundreds of people who otherwise would look upon the mighty and powerful as if expecting the back of a hand (on a good day) now see that not all the mighty are that way, and the Tide is the living example of that.
Danko wants bacon and he looks around, but since bacon isn't on the sideboard, there is none to be found. Does that stop the Sorcerer? Ha! The dragonblood simply said: If I can't see some bacon, I'll find some instead. Aaaand he trots over to a seaside tavern that is serving breakfast, including bacon, for the sailors in port.
...............
It is feeling a little strange to the heroes. Dirt City is exactly as it was before the Maharaja's monsters leveled the city; but they are all certain there is one more charge on the Time Stone and one more monster. But they haven't been whisked back to their present like they had done three times in the past. Almost like they are in a limbo, expecting disaster, waiting for the other shoe ...
Yrûl (Nick K) HP:205/211 AC:33 F:16 R:30 W:9. CMD:40 Wednesday December 18th, 2024 10:30:50 AM ~~~
”Well, we’ve discussed it...” Yrûl pronounced with a nod to her weapons and floating menagerie. ”We think that we should probably use this time to get into tip top shape ready for the final Big Bad. AND…. We should make some plans – Cunning Plans. They’re usually the best.” Having made this extremely helpful proclamation she partook of some ‘breakfast grateful that there was no stinky bacon around.
~~~
Hmerrin (MikeK)(HP 261/261 AC:38 T:24 FF:30 CMD:51) DR 5/- Wednesday December 18th, 2024 5:39:04 PM
Hmerrin laughs heartily at Yrul's suggestion. "Oh, Yrul. You don't know us at all. These 'plans' you speak of...."
The fighter chuckles a little more, before turning serious. "Well, perhaps a bit of planning wouldn't hurt. Last one is 'Earth' right? So, earth elementals, underground nasties, basically dark and rocky, yes?"
Desdichado (Ryan) [HP: 235/235; AC:29/15/32 (75%fortification) - CMD 38], DR 10/evil Wednesday December 18th, 2024 6:48:10 PM
Desdichado nods along. "Yeah, although at this point I feel like we should expect anything. We've had a few surprises up to this point, so who knows what's coming next."
Ramirez (BrianZ) AC36/24(touch) HP 190/190 CMD38 Wednesday December 18th, 2024 6:57:33 PM Plans are always a great idea, right up until you meet the enemy
We should probably just cover all the basics, some energy resistance, movement ability, then hope for the best.
RobC - Nira Wynvyre -- AC 35*/19*/29* -- CMD 27 -- HP 170/170 -- Arcane Sight, DarkVision, See Invisibility Thursday December 19th, 2024 2:38:25 AM
Nira grins. Yes, planning has never been a strength for the party, but they always seem to make it through. "I might pay a visit to the Catacombs. Stock up on a few items."
"I think it's probably a good idea to issue a warning to the city to evacuate just before we activate the timestone. I was thinking about a divination spell, but those can only forecast for events in the next week, so..."
She pauses mid-sentence, her brow furrowing as a thought hits her with sudden clarity. "'Earth' could mean dirt, as in Dirt City. Could it be that we need to fight or stop everyone in town?" Nira's mind races. She’s seen how easily people can be controlled or charmed, and given the enemies they’ve faced so far, it’s not outside the realm of possibility that something powerful could take control of the entire town.
Gaffer - Courtney - HP: 217/217 AC: 39(T:22/FF:32) CMD:43) d20+25=32 ; Thursday December 19th, 2024 5:22:12 AM
Gaffer tries to recall the destruction they saw before they last activated the time stone. If they account for the capabilities of the creatures they fought, it should be possible to get a clearer idea of what the remaining damage was done.
"I'm not sure it would be the city folk from what the damage was like. I'll prepare extra spells to avoid any of us being grappled or restrained like last time, and a few for moving stone." Gaffer adds his thoughts to the pile as he thinks back.
He also gets in the habit of keeping a Barkskin and Magic Fang spells active for however long they wait until activating the stone, just in case they get a surprise before then.
----- Nature(?): 32
A Little Discussion... coDM SteveK Thursday December 19th, 2024 6:42:07 AM
Over breakfast, the heroes start talking about the possibilities of the last monster. According to Gimp's Riddle, it is about 'earth', so countering earth powers is high on their list, and being able to freely move themselves. Nira thinks of how it could be the people of Dirt City themselves are the monsters! And Gaffer considers the type of destruction the team saw that they haven't stopped yet. Flooding? check. Tornadoes? yep. Systematic levelling? had to be that Jericho Space monster. Fire? Yeah, there was a bit of that with the Bandersnatch. What's left?
Oh, yeah, the swath of destruction, like a child running through leaves...
”Maybe it’s a really big thing, like maybe a Titan or something.” Yrûl offered after some thought. She had no idea how to handle such a thing except to puncture a few holes in it, courtesy of Snickit and Dabz and hope for the best. As to preparations, she was very much reliant on the others. She’d just turn up and do her shadowy thing whilst hoping for the best.
~~~
Gaffer - Courtney - HP: 217/217 AC: 39(T:22/FF:32) CMD:43) Thursday December 19th, 2024 6:48:37 PM "I don't mind spending some of the goodwill we have earned on telling those who will listen to leave the city for a day or two when we know the attack will happen. We could spread the word today, and then activate the stone tomorrow?" Gaffer suggests a course of action.
Desdichado (Ryan) [HP: 235/235; AC:29/15/32 (75%fortification) - CMD 38], DR 10/evil Thursday December 19th, 2024 6:58:18 PM
"If you all think we should try warning a few people, fine by me. But I'd rather make haste to put an end to whatever this last threat is. Then the warning won't even have been needed."
Ramirez (BrianZ) AC36/24(touch) HP 190/190 CMD38 Thursday December 19th, 2024 7:52:32 PM Warning them could start a panic, which could do a lot of damage. And leaving the town might not save them if we fail.
Hmerrin (MikeK)(HP 261/261 AC:38 T:24 FF:30 CMD:51) DR 5/- Thursday December 19th, 2024 8:28:09 PM
Upon deciding the last critter hit Dirt City like a child running through leaves, Hmerrin is inclined to agree with Yrul.
"Really big, probably." Hmerrin considers his own trip to the Catacombs.
In the meantime, "What if we got word to Darmious Foxx? He could let the Prince know, and the Houses could work out an evacuation. Even if they got everybody to the City Below, it might save folks. All of that assumes we fail though."
A Little More Discussion... coDM SteveK Friday December 20th, 2024 8:01:37 AM
The heroes are divided about what to do and settle in for a drink around the Yule Log while they discuss options.
……
Friends, it is officially Yule, and I’m not posting until 4 Jan. Happy Holidays!
Yrûl (Nick K) HP:205/211 AC:33 F:16 R:30 W:9. CMD:40 Friday December 20th, 2024 9:55:53 AM ~~~
”Actually, if we DO stop the big nasty then there’s no need to evacuate.” Yrûl decided after some rumination. ”I suppose though it might be wise to have a contingency if we fail. How that could work though, I really have no idea. So it’s probably best if we don’t fail.” She settled back to listen to what everyone else had to say, even Snickit and Dabz, albeit they really didn’t have anything constructive to add.
~~~
Merry Christmas and Happy New year!
Desdichado (Ryan) [HP: 235/235; AC:29/15/32 (75%fortification) - CMD 38], DR 10/evil Saturday December 21st, 2024 8:22:30 PM
Desdichado grabs a mug and sits down for a nice long think.
LOG ON