An Unexpected Interruption (SteveK) d20+30=49 ; Sunday January 1st, 2017 10:50:23 AM
Velarin is more curious still about the mini sword on the braided cord, and casts another spell to get even more information. (DM rolled Spellcraft 49). As the elf studies the object, he sees the lingering aura fade and is gone. After some pondering (DM assumed taking 10 on Know Arcana 30), Velarin can conclude that the mini sword was recently used as a material focus of a spell. He feels there may be something more to this sword as well, but will need to study it even more closely...
Identify. Highlight to display spoiler: {This spell functions as detect magic, except that it gives you a +10 enhancement bonus on Spellcraft checks made to identify the properties and command words of magic items in your possession. }
.....
But other events intrude...
There is a knock on the door. At the door is a grubby dwarf, he's covered in dust and caked mud, he's wringing his hat in both of his hands. "Meh names Daah-no-van, Ah 'as toll youz mahite beh willin ta 'elp. See meh lil Sparkle 'as gome missin. She been s’posed ter ‘ave been to town an bak t’ree dayz agone. Ah 'as been lookin fer dayz an been 'avin no luk a tall."
Evaris (Kathy) Sunday January 1st, 2017 7:59:23 PM
"Roel, your skills as a kitten-wrangler remain unsurpassed," Evaris says with a grin.
He goes to the door in response to the knock.
"Well, I'd like to help if I can," he says. "Er...who is Sparkle, exactly?"
Velarin Xilontheel(Chris J), AC 17(FF 14), hp 76/76, extended mage armor(24 hrs) Monday January 2nd, 2017 9:36:54 AM
Velarin thinks about the little sword, trying to sort out a multitude of possibilities in his head. He plans on beginning a more thorough studying of the item when a knock on the door pulls him from his thoughts.
As he hears the dwarfs request, he drops the sword into his pocket, knowing that his follow up on it will have to wait. He, like Evaris is wondering who or what Sparkle is, and waits for a response from the Dwarf regarding that particular detail before continuing. Either way, he is pretty sure already that he and his companions will be leaving shortly on a search for Sparkle.
Barratore Steelwind (Dan K) AC: 31 (T 15 FF 27), CMD:33; HP: 135/135 Character Sheet Monday January 2nd, 2017 7:04:42 PM
Barratore spent the short holiday relaxing, eating and drinking. "Never did get a full present at Yuletide, ah well. The break was a good one, but now onto adventure and some excitement." He muses aloud over breakfast
Barratore calls out for the dwarf to come in and have a drink and some food. He' intersected to hear about who or what Sparkle is and where they may have gone that they are not back yet
Brom the Barbarian - Rich P; AC: 25 (T 14, FF 25, Raged 23), CMD: 31 (34 Raged); HP: 114/140 (176 raged); DR 2/- (5/- raged) Monday January 2nd, 2017 8:07:31 PM
Brom laughs at the reactions to a kitten.
While the dwarf explains more about the missing Sparkle, he listens intently, mostly because he can barely understand the dwarf's common.
Lanliss HP88/88 AC:26 touch:19 flat:18 cmd:25 Monday January 2nd, 2017 8:38:24 PM
Lanliss hears his fellows speak with the dwarf as he tries to get used to the dwarf accent, understanding that someone precious to the dwarf , a wife or a daughter, has gone missing for three days now.
Donovan's Delimma (SteveK) Monday January 2nd, 2017 10:02:59 PM
Velarin takes the sword and pockets it to focus on the grubby dwarf.
Many of the other heroes try and wait for more information.
Lanliss digs through Donovan's heavy accent, and gets the right of it. It takes a little while, both from his words and that the dwarf is beside himself with exhaustion and worry. Donovan is a farmer a couple of hours south of Magpie Crossing, eyeing out a living on a homestead with he and his young adult daughter. Three days ago, she went to Magpie Crossing for some purchases and never came back. He has been searching for his daughter Sparkle who's vanished and can't find her!
Evaris (Kathy) Monday January 2nd, 2017 10:09:58 PM
Evaris listens to Donovan's tale with alarm. "That does sound serious," he says. "I could scry for her. I've never done it before, but Pantheon has granted me the ability." He looks around at his companions, to see whether they have other suggestions.
Emrys Myrridanmyl, stephen f. ac10 hp73/73 Monday January 2nd, 2017 11:06:16 PM
"This is very serious, and we will find your dear Sparkle."
Turning to Evaris, he can't help but wonder when he had acquired such ability. Had Evaris been watching him perform all his various mystical divinations in the past. He was a master at Divination after all. So much of his study and practice has gone into the art ... no wonder his great talent rubbed off on Evaris. "No worry, Evaris ... I can show you many special techniques at sharpening your scrying eye."
He turns back to the dwarf and asks, "Do you have anything that belongs to Sparkle ... anything really, even something as small as a button or a lock of hair? Personal possessions help greatly in Scrying her location."
Shepherd Baslim (Tanner) HP 131 -- AC 13/10/13 -- F+16 R+9 W+19 -- CMD 16 Monday January 2nd, 2017 11:57:42 PM
Baslim pauses during his drink. "Sparkle? Is she a gnome?" He sets down his goblet. "No matter. We should leave on the morrow to find her. Any belongings would help in tracking her."
Edson Kazil - Shawn R; AC: 28 (T 21, FF 20), CMD: 24 HP: 65/65 Tuesday January 3rd, 2017 1:02:24 AM
" Just when i thought i had a chance to relax some more, we get another mission. A missing gnome named Sparkle. Consider her found because we are on this."
Velarin Xilontheel(Chris J), AC 17(FF 14), hp 76/76, extended mage armor(24 hrs) Tuesday January 3rd, 2017 10:59:31 AM
Scrying is a great idea Evaris. If it is successful, we can at least hopefully narrow the search area and see her current condition.
Barratore Steelwind (Dan K) AC: 31 (T 15 FF 27), CMD:33; HP: 135/135 Character Sheet Tuesday January 3rd, 2017 2:58:01 PM
Barratore shakes his ahead a bit, confused. he couldn't understand how humans seemed to always confuse the other races. Why would the dwarf Donovan have a gnome daughter? And why did Brom keep getting called a minotaur. Maybe is was a compliment somehow of Brom's strength and good solid character, like a minotaur. But how would it be a compliment to the dwarf? Always thought calling a dwarf a gnome was fighting words.
No adventure or person too small for them not to care about and fight for.
"No offence meant to your scrying skills Evaris, but Warrd ever has a sense of humor and it's not going to be that simple." Barratore turns to Donovan, "Do you know some of the purchases she was off to make. Those merchants would be our best start to retracing her steps. Would she have originally been staying the night in Magpie, if so we could check with the Inn's as well."
Brom the Barbarian - Rich P; AC: 25 (T 14, FF 25, Raged 23), CMD: 31 (34 Raged); HP: 114/140 (176 raged); DR 2/- (5/- raged) Tuesday January 3rd, 2017 8:56:48 PM
Brom agrees that they leave in the morning to find the dwarf's daughter. Gnome or dwarf, it didn't matter to him there was a missing person and her father was asking for their help.
The method of discovering her kidnappers was a matter of magic and that was the realm of others. His job would be to rest her from a pile of dead captures- that's what Brom did.
Donovan's Delimma part 2 (SteveK) Tuesday January 3rd, 2017 9:10:17 PM
Evaris offers to Scry for Sparkle
Emrys assumes Evaris' new abailities are entirely because of Emrys' skill!
Baslim wonders if the dwarf's daughter is a gnome. Must be a relation from a previous encounter of the wandering time.
Edson sighs. He enjoyed his more than a month of nothing to do, but when needs must...
Velarin agrees that Evaris has a great idea.
Barratorre wonders in his slow way about gnomes and minotaurs and how humans just can't tell the difference...
......
Donovan takes a grateful drink and rolls his eyes. "I aven't lifted tha skiirt of a green 'aired nome, me lairds. An I 'aven't ad a bit of me Sparkle aboot, but I 'ave sommat 'er fripperies inna 'omestead, ya ken."
Maybe not everyone 'kens', but with a little listening, Donovan has objects so Sparkles back at the farm. If the heroes go with him, they should be able to get an item of the girls.
(Four heroes seem in favor of Scrying, and two waiting until tomorrow. It is just after breakfast)
Evaris (Kathy) Tuesday January 3rd, 2017 10:19:16 PM
Evaris smiles at Emrys. "I assure you, Friend Emrys, it is all Pantheon's doing," he says. "But I only volunteered because I have the spell ready to go, and I wasn't sure whether somebody else would have it prepared. But of course, you don't need to prepare! So you should cast the Scry, and I shall observe your technique."
"But Barratore has a good point," he continues. "We should ask around in town. Unless--Donovan, have you already done that?"
Emrys Myrridanmyl, stephen f. ac10 hp73/73 Tuesday January 3rd, 2017 11:45:56 PM
"If my patron,Theon and the rest of the Old Gods, who are combined to be Pantheon, chose for you this gift, then you shouldn't need great skill," he says to Evaris with a smile. "As a servant of the old Pantheon, I am honor bound to help you with your first steps."
"Also remember that ALL my spells needn't be prepared, my entire library of spells are available at any time, as long as the blood is willing. You all need only ask, when you require them."
Turning back to Evaris, "Why not you attempt the Scrying ... I can try other divinations. Two eyes are better than one ... the old school and the new. A possession of Sparkle's will make your Scrying attempt so much easier."
Shepherd Baslim (Tanner) HP 131 -- AC 13/10/13 -- F+16 R+9 W+19 -- CMD 16 Tuesday January 3rd, 2017 11:57:06 PM "We may as well travel to the farm and cast our scrying from there." The Shepherd is ready to travel after gathering his meager possessions.
Velarin Xilontheel(Chris J), AC 17(FF 14), hp 76/76, extended mage armor(24 hrs) Wednesday January 4th, 2017 10:48:23 AM
"I agree with Shepherd. Let us head for the farm now. It is three days travel, and no sense wasting today around here as time may be a factor for her. We may find a clue or come across something on the way to the farm that could help us in locating her. We should let Donovon take us on the same route she would have traveled to get here."
Velarin excuses himself to assemble his gear, and returns shortly ready to head out on another mission.
Lanliss HP88/88 AC:26 touch:19 flat:18 cmd:25 Wednesday January 4th, 2017 11:42:37 AM
We can try the scrying option now and then decide what to do,Lanliss says. We can always start our journey at noon or after noon,he adds.
Barratore Steelwind (Dan K) AC: 31 (T 15 FF 27), CMD:33; HP: 135/135 Character Sheet Wednesday January 4th, 2017 1:55:45 PM
Barratore agrees with Lanliss. "No harm comes from an attempt at this scry spell correct? If not, try now and we will head out as soon as you're done."
Barratore needs only a few moments to be ready to go, he suggests the sword in V's pocket remain behind and reiterates his questions to Donovan. hoping one of the others can understand and interpret the answers
"Do you know some of the purchases she was off to make. Those merchants would be our best start to retracing her steps. Would she have originally been staying the night in Magpie, if so we could check with the Inn's as well."
Edson Kazil - Shawn R; AC: 28 (T 21, FF 20), CMD: 24 HP: 65/65 Wednesday January 4th, 2017 3:36:50 PM
"Scrying sounds like a smart idea. Then like Barratore said we can head right out. "
Edson heads to his beadroom and grabs his gear. Ready to head out as soon as possible.
Donovan's Delimma part 3 (SteveK) Wednesday January 4th, 2017 6:13:47 PM
Emrys and Evaris attempt to out-courtesy one another.
Baslim and Velarin urge to wait until they are able to get an item belonging to Sparkle. And Velarin is corrected; while Donovan has been searching for three days, his farm is only a couple hour's walk to the south. If the heroes leave soon, they should be able to get there before noon.
Lanliss, Barratorre, and Edson all vote to cast Scry. But none of them can cast spells, and so have to wait on the casters. ....
Into the room come Glenda and Finn led by Roel, and they are carrying supply packs. "Got some lunch for you, and dinner if you are out late", says Roel.
Evaris (Kathy) Wednesday January 4th, 2017 10:29:33 PM
"Thank you, Roel," Evaris says. "Think you can manage that kitten while we're gone?" he adds with a smile.
To his companions, he says, "let's go get some item of Sparkle's so we can try the Scry spell. I only hope we'll be in time."
Brom the Barbarian - Rich P; AC: 25 (T 14, FF 25, Raged 23), CMD: 31 (34 Raged); HP: 114/140 (176 raged); DR 2/- (5/- raged) Wednesday January 4th, 2017 11:17:58 PM
Brom has no opinion on casting the spell or not, not his area of expertise. While it's being decided, Brom goes upstairs and gets ready to go. He comes down after a while fully suited up and ready to go.
Emrys Myrridanmyl, stephen f. ac10 hp73/73 d20+10=20 ; Wednesday January 4th, 2017 11:18:10 PM
"You say you're farm is to the south, only a few hours away ... Well then, let's get going! We can look for clues along the way, in case Sparkle chose to take a detour."
He attempts to recall anything about the land south of Magpie Crossing. Locations where the terrain would be advantageous for highway robbers and all sorts of vile scoundrels. (Knowledge [Geography]: 20)
Shepherd Baslim (Tanner) HP 131 -- AC 13/10/13 -- F+16 R+9 W+19 -- CMD 16 Wednesday January 4th, 2017 11:57:33 PM "Right." Baslim raps his quarterstaff on the ground. "Let's be off."
Velarin Xilontheel(Chris J), AC 17(FF 14), hp 76/76, extended mage armor(24 hrs) Thursday January 5th, 2017 10:22:39 AM
Velarin nods at Barratore's suggestion to leave the mini sword behind, and does so. And waits for the others to finish getting their gear before heading off.
Lanliss HP88/88 AC:26 touch:19 flat:18 cmd:25 d20+10=17 ; Thursday January 5th, 2017 4:20:50 PM
Lanliss tries to remember anything that might be useful about going out (like shortcut or off beaten paths) Local knowledge 17
Edson Kazil - Shawn R; AC: 28 (T 21, FF 20), CMD: 24 HP: 65/65 Thursday January 5th, 2017 4:49:07 PM
" Thanks" Edson says as he grabs the pack of food. He heads out with the others to head for the farm.
Deathbark! (SteveK) Thursday January 5th, 2017 8:33:22 PM
Velarin leaves the mini sword behind. Roel smiles at Evaris as he acquires both Kitten and Sword. "May the gods be with you, and come back in one piece, eh?"
The heroes are quick to get ready, and Donovan is beside himself with worry over his daughter so is more than ready. And off they go!
Emrys and Lanliss consider what they know of the area south of Magpie Crossing, and know that the south road goes to Meadowdale, a halfling village right on the edge of the Culverwood. The road, by memory, soon enters a wood with gentle rolling hills so there are so many ups and downs and twists and turns... Emrys is certain there are loads of potential ambush sites within a couple hours' walk.
Donovan keeps a banter up as the team walks south. After breaking through the farmer's accent, he tells how he and his daughter were using the farm to reclaim a bad spot in Culverwood that used to have a Marteus druid cult infecting the area. “An there’s still some bad stuff aboot. Me Sparkle and me have the Forestwalking, but most of ye ain’t the lucky ones.”
Following Donovan to his farm, the heroes turn a bend in the Magpie-Meadowdale Road to get to the turn-off where Donovan’s farm is at, and there is a big tree in the road! “It’s Deathbark!”, cries Donovan. “But ee ne’er acomes ter dis part o’ tha wood, musta been summpin bad az ‘appened ‘ere!”
But a mere 40 feet away, a Gartantuan ebony tree devoid of leaves stands and moans. It is covered in hanging moss and vines, a sickly green sap glistening on the bark.
...... Deathbark. AC ??? HP ???
Barratore Steelwind (Dan K) AC: 31 (T 15 FF 27), CMD:33; HP: 135/135 Character Sheet d20+14=16 ; 2d6+15=18 ; Thursday January 5th, 2017 9:37:01 PM
Barratore walks along, keeping his pace to that of the slower company. He glances about, more at the natural scenery than for ambushes or danger. The massive black tree in the middle of the road gets his attention and the fact that the dwarf gets all excited holds his attention. Barratore pulls his bow and takes aim as Donovan says something that the Minotaur just doesn't understand.
Barratore readies his shot Readied on the tree attacking Deadly aim hit AC 16. Dmg 18
Evaris (Kathy) Thursday January 5th, 2017 11:14:20 PM
Evaris also draws his bow, though privately he wonders whether arrows will harm the massive tree at all. "Could--could you speak with him?" he asks Donovan. "Find out what the trouble is?"
Shepherd Baslim (Tanner) HP 131 -- AC 13/10/13 -- F+16 R+9 W+19 -- CMD 16 Thursday January 5th, 2017 11:48:36 PM
Baslim grips his quarterstaff with both hands and holds it aloft. "Though all before me is shadow, yet shall Alemi be my guide. I shall not be left to wander the drifting roads of the Beyond. For there is no darkness in Alemi's light. And nothing that he has wrought shall be lost."
A shimmering hemisphere of semi-transparent white energy springs into being, spreading 10 feet on every side from the Shepherd. "Gather 'round. Or behind. It is an anti-life shell. This creature will not be able to touch us. There is no need to fight it while we can talk."
Edson Kazil - Shawn R; AC: 28 (T 21, FF 20), CMD: 24 HP: 65/65 d20+19=28 ; Friday January 6th, 2017 9:34:25 AM
Edson was ready to fire an arrow when Shepard cast his spell. " Brom aint gonna like the idea of not fighting and talking, but I'll say that was a smart play."
Edson moves behind Shepard, but his eyes scan the trees and brush for any ambushers.
Perception 28
Velarin Xilontheel(Chris J), AC 17(FF 14), hp 76/76, extended mage armor(24 hrs) Friday January 6th, 2017 7:47:01 PM
Velarin moves in with Shepherd as well. "Nice move on the antilife, but from the look of it, it's possible it's not actually alive. We shall see. It's much easier to drop fireballs on it from back here then when it's standing next to us."
"Donovon, what do we need to know about this tree, and quickly please"
Lanliss HP88/88 AC:26 touch:19 flat:18 cmd:25 d20+17=32 ; Friday January 6th, 2017 8:09:51 PM
Lanliss looks at the dead tree in front of him and tries to be aware of any kind of movement that the dead thing will try. He proceeds to be near Baslim range of the anti-life shell spell. Perception 32
Brom the Barbarian - Rich P; AC: 25 (T 14, FF 25, Raged 23), CMD: 31 (34 Raged); HP: 114/140 (176 raged); DR 2/- (5/- raged) d20+17=32 ; d20+5=8 ; Friday January 6th, 2017 8:49:24 PM
Brom walks out front as point casually listening to the conversation of the others behind him while keeping his eyes out for what's in front him. He sees the black tree, but has no idea what is going on with it. He raises his sword in a readied.
He slowly backs into the magical shell while keeping his eyes on the tree.
Perception DC32, KS Nature DC 8
Shepherd Baslim (Tanner) HP 131 -- AC 13/10/13 -- F+16 R+9 W+19 -- CMD 16 Friday January 6th, 2017 11:57:26 PM
ooc: check
Evaris (Kathy) Saturday January 7th, 2017 11:52:45 AM
Still holding his bow, Evaris steps into the shell behind the others.
Deathbark! Rd1 (SteveK) d20+18=23 Saturday January 7th, 2017 1:34:35 PM
Barratore pulls his bow and takes aim as Donovan says something that the Minotaur just doesn't understand.
Evaris also draws his bow, but doesn't get ready for an immediate shot, hoping the team will be able to speak to the black tree. He steps into the shell behind the others.
Baslim grips his quarterstaff with both hands and holds it aloft, casting an anti-life shell, urging his companions to use his protection as a chance to talk.
Edson was ready to fire an arrow when Shepard cast his spell. " Brom aint gonna like the idea of not fighting and talking, but I'll say that was a smart play." The rogue moves behind Shepard, but his eyes scan the trees and brush for any ambushers.
Velarin moves in with Baslim too, along with a caution the tree may no longer be 'alive'. The elf also looks to get more information from Donovan.
Lanliss looks at the dead-looking tree in front of him and tries to be aware of any kind of movement that the dead thing will try, getting near Baslim and his anti-life shell spell.
Brom walks out front and sees the black tree, but has no idea what is going on with it. He raises his sword in a readied position, slowly backing into Baslim's protection.
.....
Donovan will readily tell the heroes that Deathbark is an Undead Treant who has been wandering the edges of south-east Cinnamon Valley for a few years. He generally stays away from farms and towns but is attracted to areas where violence happened. The dwarf farmer has never heard of Deathbark to ever cross the road.
Deathbark moans and moves forward. Barratore shoots and the arrow bounces off the tree. It only gets halfway to the heroes, but it is close enough for its branches to slam down... and Passes right through Baslim's Anti-Life Shell! It does ,however, miss Brom who is standing in front.
(Deathbark wasn't close enough for Brom to use his readied attack.)
Edson can't see anyone else in the area.
Donovan cries out in fear and huddles right up against Baslim!
.....
Deathbark. AC. 25
Barratore Steelwind (Dan K) AC: 27 (T 15 FF 27), CMD:33; HP: 135/135 Character Sheet d20+20=28 ; 2d8+25=34 ; Saturday January 7th, 2017 2:36:45 PM
Barratore drops his bow to the ground and moves forward as he draws his sword. No time for the shield. Barratore moves up 10' to get into his own range, knowing the tree can strike from much further away. But hopefully the tree would not be able to strike the others as they closed.
Free Action drop Bow Move 10' Quick Draw weapon Vital Strike PA Hit AC 28 Dmg 34
Barratore grins a bit as he powers his blade into the tree with both hands. That should keep the things attention.
Lanliss HP88/88 AC:26 touch:19 flat:18 cmd:25 d20+18=29 ; Saturday January 7th, 2017 7:03:29 PM
If the spell doesn't work Lanliss will begin to make himself less visible. Stealth 29 If the spell does work, Lanliss will ask if anyone has a plan and asks Donovan if the tree has a known weakness. Another thing that pops out in his mind is what Donovan said about the fact that the trees come to a place where recent violence took place.
Velarin Xilontheel(Chris J), AC 17(FF 14), hp 76/76, extended mage armor(24 hrs) 10d6=36 ; Saturday January 7th, 2017 8:08:05 PM
Velarin does the opposite of Barratore, having no intention of standing toe to toe with it. "Donovon! you may wish to move back with me! Velarin moves back 30', and launches an empowered fireball 10 feet above it's head, or a little lower if it won't hit any party members. (36+18+6=60 points of damage)(reflex save 22)
"Anybody bring marshmallows? looks like we will have a campfire!
Edson Kazil - Shawn R; AC: 28 (T 21, FF 20), CMD: 24 HP: 65/65 d20+16=33 ; d20+10=21 ; d8+2=10 ; Sunday January 8th, 2017 11:38:10 PM
Edson fires twice but only one looks good. (Ac 33. 10 dmg).
Brom the Barbarian - Rich P; AC: 25 (T 14, FF 25, Raged 23), CMD: 31 (34 Raged); HP: 114/140 (176 raged); DR 2/- (5/- raged) d20+16=28 ; 4d6+23=30 ; d20+11=13 ; d20+6=15 ; Monday January 9th, 2017 4:01:54 PM
Brom retaliates against the tree. He steps in and takes a hard swing at the tree.
Vital Strike, PA: AC28, damage 30
Deathbark! Rd2 (SteveK) d20+3=15 ; d20+18=30 ; 2d6+9=15 ; d20+18=20 ; d20+18=21 ; Monday January 9th, 2017 6:56:20 PM
Barratorre stamps up, getting a hard oak branch slapped into his ribs for his troubles! (Barratorre takes 15 damage and Save Fort DC 19 Or be diseased). But it does allow the Minotaur to get in place and he slashes with all his might! Deathbark is wounded, but the woody trunk resists the cutting blow and it doesn't do as much damage as Barratorre thought it should.
Lanliss uses Barratorre's bulk to become less noticeable.
Velarin cautions Donovan to move back, and takes his own advice. It appears Barratorre's tactics have worked, because Deathbark is unable to recover fast enough to take advantage of the opportunity! And then the elf drops a powerful fireball onto the undead tree! It takes the full brunt but doesn't seem vulnerable to fire!
Edson starts firing arrows, and one looks to hit but only lodges in the tree's thick bark!
Brom steps in and lays his answer onto the tree for more damage!
.....
Donovan scampers back with Valerin, certainly obeying with fear induced activity!
Deathbark moans and swings two wide branches, one for Barratorre and one for Brom, and both miss! (DM: oh come on!)
Know Religion DC 25. Highlight to display spoiler: {Deathbark is undead!} Know Nature DC 25 Highlight to display spoiler: {Deathbark is a treant. }
......
Deathbark. AC 25. Dam. 104
Emrys Myrridanmyl, stephen f. ac10 hp73/73 d20+12=15 ; d20+14=23 ; Monday January 9th, 2017 9:44:35 PM
(Knowledge [Religion]: 15, blah. Knowledge [Nature]: 23)
What Donovan had said about the tree, it must be true. He was correct about it being a treant after all ... at least it was at one time. Emrys decides to cast a quick little spel ... the fact it had a slowing affect was beside the point.
(Casting the Bard spell Slow on the Deathbark. Will Save: 21 vs. being slowed. Duration: 8 rounds. IF affected by this spell Deathbark is staggered and can take only a single move action or standard action each turn, but not both (nor may it take full-round actions). Additionally, it takes a –1 penalty on attack rolls, AC, and Reflex saves. A slowed creature moves at half its normal speed.)
Velarin Xilontheel(Chris J), AC 17(FF 14), hp 76/76, extended mage armor(24 hrs) d20+12=20 ; Monday January 9th, 2017 10:50:01 PM
(knowledge religion 20)
"well that's odd. usually something made of wood is much more unhappy when I do that. There is definitley something not right about this thing. I suppose the best thing to do is let Brom and Barratore beat the sap out of it, and chop it down. I should be able to help a little with that."
Velarin casts haste on the nearest party member to Brom and Barratore as long as he believes they are less that 30' from that person. If he doesn't believe that anyone is within 30', he will cast on Brom or Barratore.
Haste: duration:12 rounds, ones extra attack at full bonus when making a full attack, +1 attack roll, +1 dodge bonus to ac and reflex save, Move is doubled.
Evaris (Kathy) d20+12=18 ; 12d6=44 ; Monday January 9th, 2017 11:00:27 PM
"An undead....treant?" Evaris is taken aback. But this is no time to stand about woolgathering. For a moment, he considers channeling positive energy at it, but he's got something that might be even better. He casts Flame Strike. Deathbark takes 44 points of fire/divine damage, Reflex save 20 for half.
Barratore Steelwind (Dan K) AC: 27 (T 15 FF 27), CMD:33; HP: 120/135 Character Sheet d20+20=26 ; d20+15=23 ; d20+10=21 ; d20+20=35 ; 2d8+25=33 ; 2d8+25=37 ; Monday January 9th, 2017 11:38:24 PM
The scrapes across his face hindered him little. Feeling the haste spell flow into his limbs, Barratore takes massive sections out of the tree. Fire erupts all about him from spells and while he is used to the occurence, he still calls out a warning to not singe his pretty face
PA Hit AC 26/23/21/35 Dmg 33/37
Barratore has the feat Penetrating Strike; your attacks with weapons selected with Weapon Focus ignore up to 5 points of damage reduction. This feat does not apply to damage reduction without a type
Shepherd Baslim (Tanner) HP 131 -- AC 13/10/13 -- F+16 R+9 W+19 -- CMD 16 11d6(4+4+4+3+3+2+3+3+4+5+5)=40 Monday January 9th, 2017 11:50:50 PM "Evaris, that is an excellent spell -- and imitation is the best flattery." Baslim stretches out his hands and calls down holy fire on the undead treant.
ooc: Cast flame strike. 40 damage (20 fire / 20 divine). Reflex DC 23 for half damage.
Edson Kazil - Shawn R; AC: 28 (T 21, FF 20), CMD: 24 HP: 65/65 d20+16=35 ; d20+11=31 ; d20+11=31 ; d8+2=10 ; 3d8+6=22 ; Tuesday January 10th, 2017 9:43:21 AM
Edson lets another two fly, both look good but the second is a picture perfect shot.(crit confirmed with a nat 20).
Hit ac 35 10 dmg Hit ac 31(crit confirmed) 22 dmg
Lanliss HP88/88 AC:26 touch:19 flat:18 cmd:25 d20+13=32 ; d6+1=2 ; d20+8=24 ; d6+1=3 ; 6d6=19 ; 6d6+18=35 ; Tuesday January 10th, 2017 2:58:25 PM
Lanliss attacks the tree two times with the short sword trying to pierce the stiff and hard bark while trying to hide behind the bigger guys of the group (Barratore or Brom) Attack 1 32 , Dmg 2 Attack 2 24 dmg 3, missed
Sneak attack only if applicable 19 Stealth 35
Brom the Barbarian - Rich P; AC: 25 (T 14, FF 25, Raged 23), CMD: 31 (34 Raged); HP: 114/140 (176 raged); DR 2/- (5/- raged) d20+16=19 ; d20+16=22 ; d20+11=18 ; d20+6=8 ; Tuesday January 10th, 2017 5:44:55 PM
"Pretty face?" Brom barks at Barratore's remark as he lets out a laugh. Meanwhile, he continues to whittle away at the tree. Apparently not amuse with the fight, Brom fails to put his all into it and does nothing to the undead tree.
Deathbark! Rd3 (SteveK) d20+3=10 ; d20+3=17 ; d20+18=31 ; d20+18=24 ; 2d6+9=18 ; Tuesday January 10th, 2017 7:51:54 PM
Emrys casts a spell to slow down the undead treant, but the spell doesn't hold onto whatever mind Deathbark has left.
Velarin decides to speed up the fight and is able to haste all of the heroes!
Evaris casts a Flame Strike and Deathstrike is so big that he doesn't have to worry about hurting any of his friends.
Barratorre slams his sword into Deathbark, his ability to Penetrate damage reduction makes his attacks even more effective!
Baslim piles on Evaris' idea and hits Deathbark with Another Flamestike!
Edson fires two arrows, wounding Deathstrike more
Lanliss slides around, able to avoid Deathbark's notice before he scrapes some bark away. ......
Donovan remains behind Velarin, ready to run as fast as he can if Deathbark proves too much for the heroes.
The undead grant doesn't look so hot, but it is still moans and groans while trying to destroy the living beings before him! He swings at Barratorre and Brom again. Brom is missed, but Barratore receives an awesome blow! (Barratorre takes 18 damage, is thrown back 10 feet and is prone! Not only that, but he has to Save Fort DC 19 or be diseased!) ......
Deathbark. AC 25. HP 272
Velarin Xilontheel(Chris J), AC 17(FF 14), hp 76/76, extended mage armor(24 hrs) 10d6=34 ; Tuesday January 10th, 2017 8:14:57 PM
"Well, apparently I can't let up a little and let the chainsaws chop it down" thinks Velarin to himself. "Oh well, this is the fun stuff. Why be an Evoker if you don't love blowing things up."
Velarin drops another Empowered Fireball on the top of death bark. (Damage 34+17+6= 57 points of damage)(reflex 22 for 1/2)
"Well done Barratore. By diving way way way out of the way, I was sure not to singe any of your hair." says Velarin with a slight smile.
Emrys Myrridanmyl, stephen f. ac10 hp73/73 Tuesday January 10th, 2017 8:37:22 PM
Emrys is confused by yet another addition to his long list of countless failures. His Slow spell isn't mind-affecting, nor does it target this undead's absent fortitude or any of its known immunities. However that is not the case. He wonders how such a creature could have the strength of Will to overcome his magical potency. "This transmutation should have worked ... even on this undead," he mutters.
He considers how useless he has become and just stands back waiting for the true heroes to bring down the beast. He can't remember the last time any of his spells had worked.
Barratore Steelwind (Dan K) AC: 32 (T 15 FF 27), CMD:33; HP: 102/135 Character Sheet d20+12=25 ; Tuesday January 10th, 2017 9:22:29 PM
Barratore lets out a slight 'ooooffff' as the undead tree slammed into him and he lands on his back. Barratore blinks a couple times and watches the bead of V's fireball sail over his head. "Yes, mighty clever tactic eh?"
Barratore grunts and rolls to his feet and Takes a moment to don his shield.
Hasted rnd 2 Fort save 25
Evaris (Kathy) d20+9=17 ; 10d6=36 ; Tuesday January 10th, 2017 10:11:57 PM
Evaris turns to Barratore, wondering about healing him, but clearly it will take more than this to keep the minotaur down!
Instead, Evaris whispers another quick prayer to Pantheon and holds out his hand. A ray of pure white energy streams toward Deathbark.
[Cast Searing Light. Hit Touch AC 17 for 36 points of untyped damage, no save.]
Shepherd Baslim (Tanner) HP 131 -- AC 13/10/13 -- F+16 R+9 W+19 -- CMD 16 5d8(5+2+5+4+3)=19 Tuesday January 10th, 2017 11:56:54 PM "Alemi, judge me whole: Find me well within your grace. Touch me with fire that I be cleansed. Tell me I have sung to your approval." Baslim stretches out his hand and a column of white light smashes onto the top on the undead treant.
ooc: Cast holy smite. 19 divine damage, blinded for 1 round. Will save DC 22 for half damage and no blindness.
Edson Kazil - Shawn R; AC: 28 (T 21, FF 20), CMD: 24 HP: 65/65 d20+16=30 ; d20+11=24 ; d8+2=7 ; Wednesday January 11th, 2017 9:16:44 AM
Two more arrows spring from edsons bow, but only one connects.
Hit ac 30 7 dmg
Lanliss HP88/88 AC:26 touch:19 flat:18 cmd:25 d20+13=15 ; d20+8=21 ; d20+18=38 ; Wednesday January 11th, 2017 5:35:23 PM
Lanliss tries to attack as fast as he can without being seen but Barratore almost falling on him meant he missed the attack . Lest he found complete stealth behind Barratore big figure with a little of the terrain clothes meant he his almost completely unseen to the enemy. Attack 1 fail Attack 2 fail Stealth 38 Natural 20
Brom the Barbarian - Rich P; AC: 25 (T 14, FF 25, Raged 23), CMD: 31 (34 Raged); HP: 114/140 (176 raged); DR 2/- (5/- raged) d20+16=24 ; d20+17=19 ; d20+12=31 ; d20+7=21 ; 2d6+23=28 ; 2d6+23=31 ; Wednesday January 11th, 2017 7:26:36 PM
Brom manages to avoid the tree while seeing Barratore get pushed back. "That's one heck of a hit." he says. He continues his attacks on the tree.
AC 25 (forgot haste bonus on AC24), 19, 31, 21; damage 28, 31
Deathbark as Kindling (SteveK) Wednesday January 11th, 2017 7:41:31 PM
Velarin's fireball is all she wrote. No other spells or swords or arrows are needed. The undead treant stops moving and slowly topples, crashing to the ground, only a mound of rotting wood.
Donovan peeks out from around Valerin. "You really are heroes!", he says in wonder, momentarily even forgetting about his missing daughter. "But why would Deathbark come here?"
Its a good question.
Edson Kazil - Shawn R; AC: 28 (T 21, FF 20), CMD: 24 HP: 65/65 Wednesday January 11th, 2017 8:43:01 PM
" Is the creature a deathbark or is its name Deathbark. Is it a named creature that terrorized the area? If so some people are gonna want to know it is no more."
Velarin Xilontheel(Chris J), AC 17(FF 14), hp 76/76, extended mage armor(24 hrs) Wednesday January 11th, 2017 9:11:38 PM
"Very well then. that is that. So, Donovon... please feel free to tell us the majority of what you know regarding deathbark. Creatures like this that change their tendencies usually do so because something else has entered the equation, and I think that this abnormality is something we are going to need to figure out. I suppose it would be good to continue this conversation on the way to your farm so we may still try and scry in on your daughter today."
"I can't imagine this wandering undead monstrosity would be wandering around with any cash or gems upon its person, but if anyone wishes to look, I suppose it couldn't hurt. Other than that, any objections to walking while talking?"
Velarin casts a detect magic and takes a look at the remains of deathbark, just to make sure.
Barratore Steelwind (Dan K) AC: 32 (T 15 FF 27), CMD:33; HP: 102/135 Character Sheet Wednesday January 11th, 2017 9:23:28 PM
Barratore moves up on the tree to investigate it. Perhaps it has some treasure within its trunk? Take 20 Perception 24
Barratore looks to the dwarf to confirm the undead treant was called or called itself Deathbark, though to him it had little point. "You say it was attracted to areas of death?" Barratore looks to Brom, "Perhaps we could track it and find something"
Emrys Myrridanmyl, stephen f. ac10 hp73/73 d20+20=38 ; Wednesday January 11th, 2017 10:15:18 PM
"Donovan, did you not say that this Deathbark is drawn to violence? If that is true, then something violent happened here to attract its attention. We should search the area for clues of such brutality."
Looking at the remains of Deathbark, he adds, "It was a dead tree correct ... then there is a good chance it was hollow. Does anyone wish to split this log?"
(Perception: 38 ... searching for clues.)
Shepherd Baslim (Tanner) HP 131 -- AC 13/10/13 -- F+16 R+9 W+19 -- CMD 16 Wednesday January 11th, 2017 11:57:17 PM
Shepherd Baslim approaches Deathbark, his eyes pinched with pity. "You poor thing." He lays a hand on the fallen plant and pats it. "You were once a noble and beautiful creature. What happened to you? Let's see if we can find out."
ooc: Baslim examines for any sign of rot or disease, especially given they just cured an infection of a leyline. Take 10 on Heal check, total 41.
Evaris (Kathy) Thursday January 12th, 2017 12:18:13 AM
"Maybe it was somehow sensitive to the change in the ley line," Evaris says. "But I think Emrys's explanation is the most likely. Unfortunately."
Lanliss HP88/88 AC:26 touch:19 flat:18 cmd:25 d20+17=27 ; Thursday January 12th, 2017 3:34:06 PM
Lanliss begins to look for a sign of the deathbark whereabouts as of which direction the thing came and if he had been on a route for somewhere. Perception 27
Questions. And answers? (SteveK) Thursday January 12th, 2017 5:31:03 PM
Donovan confirms Emrys' thoughts. Deathbark was what farmers and woodsmen called the tree, and there weren't none other like him about. He had been attracted by areas of violence, so much so that hunters would not linger at a kill and farmers would drive animals away from the farm before a slaughter. "Reckon we don' hav ta do thet no more", he concludes.
Baslim does a check on Deathbark and confirms the tree had Zombie Rot.
Barratorre, Emrys, and Lanliss take a search for treasure and find stuffed in a hole in the trunk is a mummified body of what used to be an adventuring half-orc ranger. Her equipment is surprisingly well-preserved! Velarin's Magic and skills rapidly identify the finds... Mithril Chain Shirt +3 @ 10,100gp Longsword +1, Dancing @ 51,015gp Handaxe @ 6gp Shortbow, Composite +3 Str, masterwork @ 560gp 20 arrows @ 1gp 1 arrow +1 Undead Bane, @ 160gp Ring of Chameleon Power @ 12,700gp Amulet of Proof Against Detection and Location @ 35,000gp Coin Pouch: silver, gold, and platnuim with a few assorted gemstones totalling 1,958gp Total - 80,000gp or 10,000 per hero
Barratorre's very careful search comes up with a rainbow ribbon that Donovan identifies as Sparkle’s hair ribbon; something must have happened to her here!
Emrys further identifies there are marks in the road. But what they mean, only someone with tracking skills will be able to make sense of it all. ...
.....
Barratorre gets a Hero Point for deliberately inviting Deathbark's AOO. Could have gone bad for Velarin or Donovan otherwise...
Velarin Xilontheel(Chris J), AC 17(FF 14), hp 76/76, extended mage armor(24 hrs) Thursday January 12th, 2017 7:48:13 PM
"Most interesting. Donovon, how far from your farm are we? I am a bit torn between looking around this area a bit more, and going directly to your farm to Scry your daughter. Anyone able to figure out all these tracks and what they mean? As a quicker approach to a check of this area, I could cast fly on one of you who is practiced at seeing and noticing things for an aerial overview? Thoughts, ideas, inclinations? If it is not so long a distance, we could sort of split up and do two things at once, most of us check here with a small few of us going back for the scry with Donovon?
Barratore Steelwind (Dan K) AC: 32 (T 15 FF 27), CMD:33; HP: 102/135 Character Sheet Thursday January 12th, 2017 8:25:32 PM
Barratore holds up the small ribbon, "Would this work as something belonging to Sparkle". Barratore, fairly sure that Brom has tracking skills, hangs out and waits at this point. Barratore pulls the body out and moves it to the side of the road. The fighter had no issue repurposing the poor unfortunates gear, but he did feel they should bury and bless the sight. He looks to Evaris and Shepard on the particulars. "We should bury him.
Evaris (Kathy) Thursday January 12th, 2017 10:27:39 PM
"We should indeed bury this poor fellow," Evaris says. "Is there anything in his gear to indicate who he was? Whether there is anyone we should notify?"
Brom the Barbarian - Rich P; AC: 25 (T 14, FF 25, Raged 23), CMD: 31 (34 Raged); HP: 114/140 (176 raged); DR 2/- (5/- raged) d20+11=23 ; Thursday January 12th, 2017 11:03:21 PM
Brom agrees with burying the body.
Brom moves about the area Barratore found the ribbon looking about at the ground. "I think I might have something." He says. Survival DC23
Emrys Myrridanmyl, stephen f. ac10 hp73/73 Thursday January 12th, 2017 11:30:10 PM
"Pardon, but I think I have found some interesting marks or tracks in the road here ... they look fresh. I could use our master tracker's expert opinion on this."
Emrys Myrridanmyl, stephen f. ac10 hp73/73 d20+10=11 ; Thursday January 12th, 2017 11:39:06 PM
Then Emrys decides to try and flex is own wildling muscles with this conundrum of tracking this marks in the road. He's a creature of the forest after all; having grown up in the wilds of Culverwood. He was blessed at Forest Walking, like the Donovan the dwarf. Life in the cities shouldn't have dulled his senses too much.
(Survival: 11, natural 1, lol)
Then again, maybe the time he's spent in the cities has done its damage. Another one of his many failures.
Shepherd Baslim (Tanner) HP 131 -- AC 13/10/13 -- F+16 R+9 W+19 -- CMD 16 Thursday January 12th, 2017 11:59:41 PM "Yes, a burial is appropriate for any member of the Noble Races. We can give him a general burial, since we don't know his deity of choice in life." He thinks for a moment, scratching his beard. "Perhaps someone has a way of quickly digging a grave? We need to observe his burial rights, but there is a child missing and time is of the essence."
Edson Kazil - Shawn R; AC: 28 (T 21, FF 20), CMD: 24 HP: 65/65 Friday January 13th, 2017 10:12:29 AM
Edson will help dig the hole if need be. He takes nothing from the pile.
Ooc: how muh did we get for the dragon fight again?
Shepherd Baslim (Tanner) HP 131 -- AC 13/10/13 -- F+16 R+9 W+19 -- CMD 16 Friday January 13th, 2017 11:54:30 PM
ooc: check
Clues. (SteveK) Saturday January 14th, 2017 9:14:43 AM
A burial detail is formed and the half-orc corpse is put to rest off the side of the road in a convenient hollow under the trees. Hopefully, a good final resting place for a ranger.
Donovan confirms that they are only a quarter mile from his farm, and then he runs to Barratorre. "That's me Sparkle's 'air ribbon! She wuz awearin' it afore she left for tha day, three days agone!" .
Emrys makes note of the tracks, and it is Brom who steps up to provide the information. There was a small struggle here; a body imprint in a drying puddle, and scuff marks lead to the south. The girl must have been surprised around the bend just like the heroes and the undead treant, but it wasn't Deathbark who encountered the girl. There was something Large and bipedal, wearing boots that headed south.
Velarin also picks up something else with his Detect Magic spell; a fading fevocation is still here just south of the recent fight.
.....
Edson, the dragon module gave xp to get each hero to 12th level
All heroes get 21,000xp for Donovan, Deathbark, and finding the clues.
Velarin Xilontheel(Chris J), AC 17(FF 14), hp 76/76, extended mage armor(24 hrs) Saturday January 14th, 2017 9:42:11 AM
It appears that her assailant headed south, and that is the same direction as a fading evocation I can see emanating from that direction. It seems we should head south, and probably do so now. Time is likely of the essence for Sparkle.
Lanliss HP88/88 AC:26 touch:19 flat:18 cmd:25 Saturday January 14th, 2017 4:13:28 PM
We should go to check, that half-orc ranger got that headband from sparkle but sparkle might still be alive.
DM addendum The half-orc ranger is mummified and had to have been stuffed in Deathbark for many years. Sparkle was last seen three days ago.
The ribbon was in the road and not among Deathbark's treasure. A quick check by Brom confirms the undead treant must have gotten to this location only minutes before the heroes themselves.
Brom the Barbarian - Rich P; AC: 25 (T 14, FF 25, Raged 23), CMD: 31 (34 Raged); HP: 114/140 (176 raged); DR 2/- (5/- raged) d20+11=23 ; d20+17=36 ; Saturday January 14th, 2017 9:07:05 PM
Brom confirms the situation with Sparkle. "Alright, we have a trail. Let's head out." Putting his sword away, he draws his bow and moves out along the direction the trail takes him. He keeps an eye out in front of the group.
Survival DC 23, Perception DC 36
Barratore Steelwind (Dan K) AC: 32 (T 15 FF 27), CMD:33; HP: 102/135 Character Sheet d20+4=9 ; Sunday January 15th, 2017 8:13:45 PM
Barratore retrieves his bow from the ground, stows his shield and falls in with Brom. Time was likely important, the trail was a better choice then continuing to the farm. Knowing he was no help to Brom directly, Barratore does what he can to keep his eyes to the path ahead, that Brom seemed to be leading them on
perception 9
Evaris (Kathy) Sunday January 15th, 2017 9:58:13 PM
"Yes, let's head south," Evaris agrees. "Master Donovan, you're welcome to come with us if you like, but it's likely to be dangerous. Perhaps you should go back to your farm and wait for Sparkle there?"
Edson Kazil - Shawn R; AC: 28 (T 21, FF 20), CMD: 24 HP: 65/65 Monday January 16th, 2017 10:39:45 AM
Edson puts his bow away and picks up any still good arrows. He moves with the others and heads out looking for Sparkle.
On Toward Merrydale (SteveK) Monday January 16th, 2017 12:41:19 PM
Brom knows the tracks where Barratorre found Sparkle's ribbon are about three days old.
Donovan agrees with Evaris; he's not interested in danger and the dwarf has a farm to run. Before he turns off the road onto the track that leads to his farm, the dwarf gives a last bit of advice. "Merrydale is right there along this track", he says as he points the way off the main road. "You can't miss it!"
(Welcome co-DM JohnC for the next couple of scenes! )
(DMJCC will be trying to post 12-1pm est fyi)
Lanliss HP88/88 AC:26 touch:19 flat:18 cmd:25 Monday January 16th, 2017 5:01:43 PM
Lanliss asks if Donovan needs more escorting to the farm. If not he will proceed with the others to go look for Sparkle. Assuming the others choose to do the same.
Velarin Xilontheel(Chris J), AC 17(FF 14), hp 76/76, extended mage armor(24 hrs) Monday January 16th, 2017 7:24:28 PM
Velarin falls in line as the group heads down the path Brom has found.
Evaris (Kathy) Monday January 16th, 2017 9:39:35 PM
Being no tracker, Evaris stays well back from their only lead, and follows the others to wherever the tracks go.
Shepherd Baslim (Tanner) HP 131 -- AC 13/10/13 -- F+16 R+9 W+19 -- CMD 16 Monday January 16th, 2017 11:08:17 PM "Onward and onward." Shepherd Baslim grips his quarterstaff, ready to keep with the group.
Edson Kazil - Shawn R; AC: 28 (T 21, FF 20), CMD: 24 HP: 65/65 Tuesday January 17th, 2017 9:49:43 AM
"Merrydale,sounds like a happy little place. " Edson says as he moves with the others following the tracks
LOG ON