Beriothian -- AC:17/11/22 HP: 152/152 CMD = 19 Thursday March 31st, 2016 6:10:54 PM So... henchmen? I prefer 'minions' myself. Well, that was the simpelist mystery we've had in ages. So, what exactly do you plan to do with an army of henchmen? Beri finishes his conversation and goes to his room to take inventory, then will head to the catacombs as well.
An Important Message (DM SteveK) Thursday March 31st, 2016 6:19:19 PM
Y'Zargo goes on his way, the coin binding him even more closely to Sesha (if that were even possible). No doubt, his zeal will quickly find others in and around Hook City that is willing to follow Sesha.
Katinka quips about relatives and money before Sesha assures Y'Zargo is not any sort of relative. He must have lied his head off to bluff Inspector Auslander!
Garrett comes down with some pungent sauerkraut that with a little more spice could be Kim chee. Nobody takes him up on his offer of halfsies.
Restlin, Bosk, Beri, and Zane go to the Catacombs and banter about the new guy. Oh, and shop. Lots of shopping!
Sesha goes to the WLA HQ in Hook City and conducts some training just to get that much better. The regulars at the WLA Outpost all know who Sesha is and greet her with anywhere from a friendly wave to awestruck stares (from the novices).
And so ends their first day back to nice warm beds and Hook City. .....
A banging at the door in the early hours of the morning break the calm. The sun isn't even up, just a pink blur on the horizon. Shouts from outside the Tower attest to the urgency of the summons.
"Iron Adventurers! Open up! We need to speak at once!" It is the bass voice of Inspector Auslander!
"Bosk! Restlin! Zane! You other guys! There's some big trouble in Five Mile!" The higher voice is Jillan! What could have brought her riding to Hook City in the middle of the night?!! ......
Note: Jillan, once an adventurer in the group, settled down in Mud City helping to look after a friends Emporium. After that was burned down, she left Mud Town at the urging of the Iron Adventurers and (along with Helmust and about 50 others) founded the village of Five Mile that is five miles away from Hook City and on the ithsmus that connects Hook City to the Gateway Downs. She is a long-time friend of the group and extremely trustworthy.
RobC - Katinka Hushfoot -- AC 25/17/19 -- CMD 21 -- HP 143/143 -- Spells Thursday March 31st, 2016 9:27:28 PM
With her overland flight spell already in effect, Tink hops over the bannister and flies down the stairwell. She recognises the Inspectors voice - and the urgency in it. Who that other voice is she has no idea.
Tink pulls on the door with all her might to open it quickly.
"Inspector Auslander, it's good to see you again. What's the matter?"
Restlin (Carl) -- AC +10/+7/+7 CMD: +15 HP: 116/116 (Spells) Luck Points: 4/14 Friday April 1st, 2016 10:21:41 AM
Restlin wakes up, lying in bed & staring at the ceiling. "We haven't even been back 24 hours."
He trudges downstairs, thinking as he does that if they're expected to leave this second, he's going to be nearly useless w/o having time to prepare his spells.
He punches Sesha on the arm as they descend. "Hear that? You're an other guy..."
Of course, Tink's already let them in. He resigns himself to the fact that he's not getting a good night's sleep today & listens.
Zane (JCC) AC 33 (34), CMB 16, CMD 32, HP 166/166, Character Friday April 1st, 2016 10:38:43 AM
Having spent years at sea, Zane keeps things handy, so he grabs his haversack as he heads out f his room. It's times like these that he's glad he doesn't wear armor. "Hey Jillan, what's the rush?' Zane asks as he arrives on the lower level.
Garret - Carl subbing Friday April 1st, 2016 11:25:40 AM
Garret heads downstairs at the noise, completely forgetting to shower. That's unfortunate, since the sauerkraut is now starting to seep through his pores.
He looks around for the emergency, but just sees two humans. Auslander he recognizes, but who's this other fellah?
Beriothian -- AC:17/11/22 HP: 152/152 CMD = 19 Friday April 1st, 2016 6:44:07 PM
Beri looks up from his coffee, an indulgent breakfast treat infused with a little chocolate and raspberry, barely enough to taste but creating a very relaxing aroma. He inhales slowly then suddenly his eyes widen and he looks directly at Jillian. This sounds serious... please, don't tell me it's a dragon seeking revenge. Anything but a dragon.
Sesha [AC 39 /21 To/29 Fl] | HP 188/93 | CMD 22] Saturday April 2nd, 2016 9:53:04 AM
Sesha frowns, wiping sleep from her eyes. She's glad for the lack of windows in her current location... sudden bursts of light still upset her eyes after all these years.
"I bet it's Mhalice. I only get woken up this early for Mhalice."
With a yawn, she punches Restlin back and then hooks her arm through his. She glances up at him, big brown eyes peeking through white hair.
"About Y'zargo. I really did dream about him for some time, when Serenbeth entertained my idea of starting my own coven. He is..."
-------------------
"Many things! Y'zargo is handsome, yes yes..", the dark skinned warlock waves his hand dismissively.."And he is grateful to Sesha for last night's .. 'instructions' ..."
He lets the sentence dangle..
"On the finer arts of potion craft, of course! Your Mage-Priest will surely enjoy the results of your labor!"
Y'zargo retreats back into the kitchen, humming merrily to himself.
-----------------------------------
Sesha grins.
"He's a lot to handle, but I think he's going to be important to my goals. He has a way about him. He's also a scholar, or will be, if Serenbeth's hints about him are true."
Jillan's Tale (DM SteveK) Saturday April 2nd, 2016 1:20:13 PM
Banter, sleepy or otherwise, is one of the mainstays of the Iron Adventueres, and this night is no exception. Inspector Auslander looks just as rumpled as ever, his suspicious-with-the-world look back in place. "First that drow (he points to Y'Zargo) and now a special pass for a non-citizen after hours all because of you lot. If it wasn't for... Well, you do seem to be worth the trouble, if only barely. ". (Sense Motive DC 20: Auslander is hiding his affection for the heroes with his usual gruffness)
Jillan, a well-shaped human who has had graceful figure training, is more to the point. “Iron Adventurers, please help! A monster is attacking nearby miners and outlying farms. It is getting closer to 5 Mile, and we can’t stop it!”
Upon questioning, Helmust sent Jillan to get the IA shortly before midnight, and had planned to go himself with his best tracker to catch a glimpse of the monster since the miner and farmer accounts were wildly different. All agreed, however, that it was a single huge monster. Jillan says stories were a tunneller with tentacles, or a giant centipede, or a dragon.
The Iron Adventurers know the local area fairly well. Hook City is on a promontory in the ocean. Traveling north four miles, the land narrows to an ithsmus and bends to the west. This narrowness is about a half mile wide at the narrowest and runs for three more miles until it meets the mainland of Gateway Downs. The Village of Five Mile is right in the middle of the ithsmus, a convenient stopping point for travelers to and from the greatest city of the Southern Continent. Since the last Great Migration, Hook City has built a road across the ithsmus, and at the mainland splits north-west towards Heranmar and south-west towards Wayfarer. At the split are a series of low hills that are rocky and wooded, and many miners, foresters, and farmers have been settling there.
Jillan's information has the monster first discovered in the hills near the road split, but has been moving towards Five Mile. And it is too big for a couple former adventurers and some guards to handle. Free m Jillan's description, it would be too big for anyone outside of Hook City to handle!
Restlin (Carl) -- AC +10/+7/+7 CMD: +15 HP: 116/116 (Spells) Luck Points: 4/14 Saturday April 2nd, 2016 3:13:54 PM
Restlin nods as he and Sesha proceed down the stairs. "If this is important to you, I won't make a fuss about some handsome, flirty drow making constant innuendo regarding you, though perhaps introducing him to some of the more adventurous women of Hook City wouldn't hurt..."
He listens to Jillian tell her (his? not sure which pronoun to use here) story. "Ok, I'll need an hour to prepare. Without time to get my spells sorted, I'm basically just a cheerleader for the rest of the group." He stands and stretches. "Maybe Sesha's new henchmen knows how to throw a decent breakfast together while we get ready..."
RobC - Katinka Hushfoot -- AC 25/17/19 -- CMD 21 -- HP 143/143 -- Spells Sunday April 3rd, 2016 1:52:46 AM
Tink looks confused as Restlin speaks "The only spell you've cast is the teleport yesterday to get us here. I'm the same. We may each be one spell down, but I think whatever it is we can handle it together"
Bosk AC: (38/21/33) CMD: (35) hp 108/108 Spells Sunday April 3rd, 2016 9:37:07 PM
Bosk gives the matter some thought. Turning to the group he asks, Do any of you have an idea what this creature could be? After waiting for an answer he asks, You mentioned that there are stories that it might be a tunneler. Are there any tunnels that have been discovered? Also, can you tell us which person gave you which account of the creature? It is very possible that the farmers and miners actually saw different monsters. Either because it can change form or because there is more than one. He asks her for all the specifics she has. Size, shape, color, if it came up from a tunnel, by sky, sea or by land. He asks how many were taken and how those that got away escaped. Anything she might know that could help them. He also asks which direction the monster seems to be coming from, Gateway Downs or Hook City. Although he doesn't mention it to Jillan, the group has previously traveled Gateway Downs and discovered what the cleric can only describe as thin spaces between the realms.
What was it that Trella told him... The area is very close to the place where the wall between the Wold and Koshe Marr is the thinnest and has been enslaved by one undead prince after another. He knows from both his training as a Grim and the adventures of the IA that much worse lurks on the other side of the thinning...
Bosk also asks Jillan how she and Hemust are doing. He recalls watching their relationship grow from working together as less than reputable colleagues to working for the IA and falling in love, becoming fiancé...and if memory serves him right getting married by a member of the IA...unfortunately he cannot recall if the marriage actually happened, or it was put on hold because of moving to 5 mile. He hopes one of the other IA remember and refer to either her fiancé or husband so that he doesn't have to ask.
Zane (JCC) AC 33 (34), CMB 16, CMD 32, HP 166/166, Character Monday April 4th, 2016 12:57:02 PM
Zane only met Jillan very briefly before he hopped on a ship and scoured the seas for a few years. He can barely remember anything except that he met her. "It could be just about anything, but I'm positive we'll go investigate whatever this is and if need be we can take care of the problem. What do you say everyone?" Zane shoulders his pack and is ready to go already....
Sesha [AC 39 /21 To/29 Fl] | HP 188/93 | CMD 22] Monday April 4th, 2016 1:00:50 PM
Yzargo flourishes, his expression saddened. When he speaks, he sounds like Antonio Banderas.
"The great Y'zargo has many talents, but sadly, cooking is not one of them. I have been too often spoiled by the beautiful women of my dalliances, who are often all too happy to cook breakfast for me."
He grins.
"But I can perhaps assemble something edible while you meet with the others. I would love to help my esteemed lady Sesha with whatever cruel monster you all seek, but alas, my stomach is paining me something fierce. I am sure perhaps, a lesser mortal would die from this pain." -----------------------------------------
Sesha stares at Y'zargo. The warlock was nothing like any Blood Witch she had ever encountered. Still, she knew from her dreams he was powerful, though not quite as strong as she was.
'Tis little spirits will, I suppose."
She finally pays attention to the talk of a tunneling dragon monster beast.
"Sounds like whatever it is, it might be able to change it's shape. Or it's a mortal who can polymorph. Did we ever see Mhalice polymorph? Even if it isn't her, I doubt a lot of monsters are savaging 5 mile unless a single person is drawing them there, but there's nothing to gain by it as I can figure."
She shuffles her bag and starts pulling potions from her pack.
"I brewed a lot of stuff when not at the WLA. If you need something, take it."
(ooc: These potions are covered under Sesha's WBL. Help yourself.)
Restlin (Carl) -- AC +10/+7/+7 CMD: +15 HP: 116/116 (Spells) Luck Points: 4/14 d4+1=3 ; Monday April 4th, 2016 5:05:04 PM "If that monster is Mhalice, we're never going to hear the end of it," he thinks to himself.
"I guess being down 1 teleport spell isn't the end of the world. Let's get dressed & get moving." He doesn't bother asking questions about the monster; panicked civilians rarely gave accurate accounts, and Jillian's story didn't do much to make him think differently. Best he just prepare for anything.
He stops to look Y'Zargo in the eye as he approaches the stairway up to his room. "Despite your best efforts, I'm starting to warm up to you." He doesn't wait for a response before climbing up.
***
Restlin will gather his things & put on some simple traveling clothes. He's still sore about being woken up & wants to wear something comfortable...the adventurer's version of going to Walmart in sweats and slippers.
Beriothian -- AC:17/11/22 HP: 152/152 CMD = 19 Monday April 4th, 2016 6:31:44 PM
Beri listens and is about to ask Jillian about Let's not focus on the analysis since many may not have even seen pictures of the monsters they are describing. Do you know the color of the beast? Was it able to fly in any stories, or able to dig? Where would we actually be fighting the creature, in an empty field or do you think it would be reaching the city by the time we arrived? Am I correct from the description that the creature is long? Do we know if it had scales or other such obvious natural armor?
And We Are Walking, After Midnight, Under the Starlight... (DM SteveK) Monday April 4th, 2016 8:21:51 PM
Restlin, Sesha, and Y'Zargo seem to be all warily getting used to each other. It is really strange with a third in what used to be a comfortable duo.
Zane, Katinka, and Beri are taking the early morning waking in stride and they are content to find out more when they get to Five Mile.
Bosk, however, is full of questions. Color? Shape? Powers? Size? More and more and... Poor Jillan doesn't know any of these details. Like Restlin said, the surviving witnesses were barely able to agree on what she has already told Helmust and Jillan. There literally is nothing more she can tell the Minotaur. Then Bosk seems to ca a little and focus on Jillan.
The woman glows a little. "Um, yes, Helmust and I are married already. We would have loved to have you there and marry is but.. Well... We needed to get married you know. The baby will be here in six month."
And with that happy news, there is nothing for the heroes to do other than get to Hook City in a timely manner. Without the use of teleportation, that falls down to travel by foot. It is a half mile walk from Iron Tower to the Bridge, up the stairs and a mile across before more stairs down. Another mile's walk down the Marble Causeway (and past all the city temples), and all before even getting to one of the great gates and out to Mud Town. From there, in the rain and trickly mud and darkness, it is five miles walking up a gentle but steady rise to the ithsmus and the village of Five Mile.
The heroes arrive at the wicker hedges around the village as the sun crests the hills to the east.
Restlin (Carl) -- AC +10/+7/+7 CMD: +15 HP: 116/116 (Spells) Luck Points: 4/14 Monday April 4th, 2016 9:57:06 PM
"I didn't get to brag at the temple of Wardd. I love bragging at the temple of Wardd. Still, for Jillian and Helmust, I'll rise early."
...and honestly, it's not a bad walk. It's not often the Iron Adventurers are all stuck in each other's company without something actively trying to kill them. He walks arm in arm with Sesha, chatting about nothing in particular. "Five Mile's a really good idea, really. Mudtown is no place to raise a child, what with the pyromaniacs and...mud and all. How's life there, Jillian? I mean, I'm not looking to leave our tower. I like our tower. I love our tower."
---time passes---
"...and really, why should I study divination? Of all the schools of magic, it's my least favorite. If I'm going to be eaten by something, I don't want my last thought to be 'Oh, now that prophecy makes sense.' Still, Sesha here's really good at it. OH, can you tell if Jillian's baby is going to be a boy or a girl? They'd know how to decorate the nursery, unless you're planning on not enforcing gender stereotypes and what not..."
---time passes---
"...and then the zombie punched me right in the mouth after I tried to take its spoon..."
---time passes---
"...then Zeoll cast calm emotions. That's when all heck broke loose..."
---time passes---
"So anyway, that's why I don't eat olives. Say, I think we're here! Let's go see if we can't get a decent breakfast while we figure out what's next."
Bosk AC: (38/21/33) CMD: (35) hp 108/108 Spells d20+21=41 ; Tuesday April 5th, 2016 12:06:59 AM
Bosk takes a couple minutes to show the lacky to his new quarters in the uper left hand corner of the main floor of the tower as well as the bathroom down the hall.
As long as you are a friend of Sesha's you can take one of the extra room. Make yourself comfortable, but please stay out of our private quarters. The magic that protects them is quite strong and might act of its own accord.
....
As the group makes their way to 5 Mile the blond taur finds out about Jillan and Hemust's lives and what has become of the others the IA knew in Mudtown, as well as relaying some of his own adventures. Along the way Bosk keeps an eye out for anything out of the ordinary, traps, enemies and the like. He pays particular attention to the possibility of pit traps and tunnels from the mysterious monster as well as looking towards the sky for flying dragons. He even makes sure Jillan is acting normally and not a monster in disguise. He fell for that once before with the brain damaged doppelganger.
Perception = 21, Natural 20!
RobC - Katinka Hushfoot -- AC 25/17/19 -- CMD 21 -- HP 143/143 -- Spells d20+32=37 ; Tuesday April 5th, 2016 3:09:19 AM "Inspector Auslander, would you be so kind as to let the Dragon Consortium know that we are off? We were successful in Oyster Bay, and whilst we would love to debrief with them, this situation in Five Mile has called us away" Tink asks of the kindly Inspector before they depart. The DC had requested an update when the party returned to Hook, but surely they would understand when duty calls.
As they journey, Tink smiles to herself. Yes, in a past life Restlin must have been a bard. He has a gift with words and storytelling.
Tink keeps an eye on the road ahead and on the ground either side. Jillan said the creature was a tunneller. Perhaps there are signs of holes or collapsed areas. Who knows? Maybe there are tentacle-prints?
Zane (JCC) AC 33 (34), CMB 16, CMD 32, HP 166/166, Character Tuesday April 5th, 2016 1:55:02 PM
Depending on how tall the hedges are, Zane either takes a look over them or heads towards a gate to look through. He's trying to spot the damage that was discussed, so he can try to figure out what did it.
Beriothian -- AC:17/11/22 HP: 152/152 CMD = 19 Tuesday April 5th, 2016 5:14:50 PM
Beri looks as they approach the hedges. Let's try to avoid the town and meet this thing out in the open where it won't destroy half the buildings. Do you know which direction it's coming from?
Five Mile Village (DM SteveK) Tuesday April 5th, 2016 9:40:48 PM
The night time walk becomes less of a burden when old friends reminisce and catch up. Jillan talks about how the village has been growing and doing well and keeping a lot w profile. "Trying really hard not to look like we are taking any revenue from Hook City, you know. Just happen to be the last caravan stop to Hook City from Gateway Downs."
Closer to the village and the heroes start looking for signs of a giant monster. This disturbs Jillan since she had mentioned that the monster was in the hills and though coming closer to the village, she never thought that it would get here while she was gone!
But the worry is for naught! There are no holes, no damage, no large black silhouettes in the night sky. When the team gets to the four foot hedge around the village, they are met by Helmust and a small group of wide-eyed people. Helmust introduces everyone to the Iron Adventurers. "Told you they would listen to Jillan. Used to be adventuring with Bosk, she did, before settling down with me."
He introduces the heroes to the wide-eyes people which turns out to be the survivors of the monster from the hills to the west. Their stories, however, are so different that the heroes are going to need some diplomacy to calm them down and then some knowledge skills to piece together all the disparate information.
Sesha spends a fair bit of time poking around 5 mile. The location isn't too large, and from Jillan's description not too embroiled in the politics of Hook City.
As long as a modicum of privacy is enjoyed here, and people are left to their own devices, she half considered if this would be a better home for her coven than the inside of Hook City proper. Y'zargo probably wouldn't like it, but Sesha wasn't too worried about that. She and he both could Shadow-walk long distances easily. He could be where he wanted when he wanted, for the most part.
First though, before any of that, she was here to help some people. She does her best to try and calm people down, and even considers casting the same deep empathy spell she had cast when dealing with the Chit Machine. She still felt strong emotional pulls from that experience, and decides to try empathy without magic.
She tries to find those who aren't so afraid, and speaks calmly with them about what's been happening. ( Diplomacy, 30. ), then tries to see if it fits anything she knows. She's never been a scholar, but she pays attention to Restlin, and that boy was always talking about the things he knew.
RobC - Katinka Hushfoot -- AC 25/17/19 -- CMD 21 -- HP 143/143 -- Spells d20+22=33 ; d20+22=42 ; d20+32=33 ; d20+6=8 ; d20+6=13 ; Wednesday April 6th, 2016 1:37:54 AM
Tink joins Sesha in trying to talk to some of the people. Though she has never been here before - nor heard of Jillan or Hemlust before today - a small halfling woman shouldn't be that intimidating.
Tink will look about the survivors for signs of any wounded. Did they see something and ran away scared, or were they actually hurt in some way? If any are hurt, she will try and console them whilst signalling for aid from Bosk. Tink's magic isn't much on the curative side of things. Not like Bosk.
She will talk to the folk about what they were doing when they encountered the monster. Was the first sighting in the mines or the farms? If in the mines, Tink will "talk the talk" with the miners, having some experience with such things.
------------------------- Diplomacy: 33 - To obtain information Sense Motive: 42 - To identify people who might have something to say, or, who are embellishing the story Perception: 33 Heal: 8 - To identify anyone who might is wounded and might need treatment Profession (Miner): 13 - Tink actually has ranks in Prof Miner!
Restlin (Carl) -- AC +10/+7/+7 CMD: +15 HP: 116/116 (Spells) Luck Points: 4/14 d20+19=25 ; d20+26=33 ; d20+22=38 ; d20+18=27 ; d20+18=33 ; Wednesday April 6th, 2016 10:03:06 AM
Restlin straightens his knit detective's cap. "Time to get detectiving," he says aloud to himself.
The wizard lacks Sesha's presence, but is still a skilled diplomat and reader of people. He peppers his requests for description of the monster with questions he pulls out of thin air, trying to see if people are just making stuff up for attention?
ie., "I think I've heard of that monster. Did it have a big purple beak?"
He knows it's normal for people to have differing descriptions of scary situations, but all these descriptions of the beast are so different that he wonders if they're not just dealing with some sort of shape-shifter.
***
Diplomacy (just the facts, ma'am) - 25 Sense Motive (is this all just a hoax?) - 33 Knowledge, Arcana (Is there some big nasty out there that can change its shape?) - 38 Knowledge, Planes (Same question for extraplanar creatures) - 27 Knowledge, Local (is there a decent place to eat around here?) - 33
Garret - Carl subbing for Jeff d20+15=22 ; d20+26=27 ; Wednesday April 6th, 2016 10:05:51 AM
Garret knew better than to talk to people. For some reason they always held their noses when he got close, and that made their voices funny.
He had a keen eye, though, and knew how to read people. He decides to follow Tink around (us little folks have to stick together) and watch from afar while she interrogated folks.
***
Perception: 27 Sense motive: 22
Five Mile Village (DM SteveK) Wednesday April 6th, 2016 6:59:31 PM
Sesha has a quick look around the small village. She finds that it consists of a large inn, a small smithy, several barns and corrals, and maybe a half dozen moderate homes. There is a shrine to the Crones of Gateway Downs and another featuring the Hooks of Hook City (which represent the unnamed Power of the land). The barns and corrals are much too big for a village of this size, but it is big enough for the occasional stopping caravan.
Between Sesha, Restlin, and Katinka, the heroes are able to settle down the rattled refugees and make sense of the dragon/ serpent/ tunneller. From the pieces of descriptions, the Iron Adventurers are convinced the monster is a Rhemoraz. A tunneller with heat powers and a insectoid head that could pass as reptilian in a frightening moment. But the jewel encrusted carapace and the size that they describe ... It has to be the biggest Rhemoraz ever!
Beriothian -- AC:17/11/22 HP: 152/152 CMD = 19 d20+19=38 ; Wednesday April 6th, 2016 8:48:27 PM
Beri listens as the villagers describe the best to them, slowly realizing that this is indeed another monster that could prefer to swallow him whole. What are the odds we can shrink that thing down to something... less able to eat us in one bite? Well, that gives us a lot to go on at least. Do we have any idea how far away it is?
Also,a jewel encrusted carapace... I've heard of that with dragons, but a Rhemoraz... Beri ponders whether that is normal behavior for such species or if it indicates perhaps outside forces have armed it (and by extension whether such encrusting would provide the beast a defensive benefit.
knowledge nature = 38
Bosk AC: (38/21/33) CMD: (35) hp 108/108 Spells d20+6=14 ; Wednesday April 6th, 2016 9:50:15 PM
Bosk watches as the others calm the citizens down and pays attention to their wounds, and gathers any wounded around and cure their wounds with his channel energy. As they tell their stories he focuses on how those in the area escaped as well as how the unfortunate met their demise. Knowing this is a hard time for them he offers his services, praying for the dead, interceding and asking Gargul to have mercy for their souls, and holding a service to honor and remember those that passed too soon.
As the people disperse Bosk turns to the other. I cannot recall anything about that creature, but I do not think they are common around here. Have any of you ever heard of this thing?
Knowledge Arcana = 14
Zane (JCC) AC 33 (34), CMB 16, CMD 32, HP 166/166, Character Wednesday April 6th, 2016 10:38:35 PM "Only really old powerful dragons become jewel encrusted, if that's the same for this thing, it must be the great grand daddy of them all." Zane is out of his depth here, being told to find or kill is one thing, but he wasn't much foe researching stuff.
Sesha [AC 39 /21 To/29 Fl] | HP 188/93 | CMD 22] Thursday April 7th, 2016 12:20:04 AM
"Touching them is bad news. Think of something in between a Wyvern and Korrine, in terms of brains. Probably in terms of strength too. "
She thinks about it for a moment.
"It's not a dumb animal at any rate, so it has a reason to be here."
RobC - Katinka Hushfoot -- AC 25/17/19 -- CMD 21 -- HP 143/143 -- Spells d20+22=23 ; Thursday April 7th, 2016 2:28:54 AM "Perhaps we shrink Sesha down again, and she kills it from the inside out?" Tink adds with a hint of a grin. She's referring of course to Sesha's efforts with a froghemoth.
"In all seriousness though, we should determine whether the miners here encroached on the Rhemoraz's territory. It might be defending itself, although my guy tells me that's unlikely."
Tink will ask about to get a better idea of the mining operation - had they been digging in old mines, had they been expanding, and so on - before flying straight upwards. She wants to get a birds-eye view of things, and determine whether the critter is anywhere nearby. She'll go as high as 200ft if necessary, looking for signs of ground movement
Perception: 23
Garret Goodbarrel [AC:34/30/28 +4 vs AOO HP:134/134 Ki:16/16 CMD: 34 SR: 24] Thursday April 7th, 2016 7:35:49 AM
When Sesha mentions touching the creature, Garret speaks up: "What? Were you planning on petting the darn thing or something? Oh, wait, you meant me, didn't you? Well, I have this sling, but otherwise if I can't touch it, I guess I can just yell at it and run around a bit."
OOC: Back! Thanks for covering for me!
Restlin (Carl) -- AC +10/+7/+7 CMD: +15 HP: 116/116 (Spells) Luck Points: 4/14 Thursday April 7th, 2016 9:24:23 AM
"Well, if nothing else, at least this is one of those rare times when we know in advance what type of energy we should make ourselves resistant to. If this were a normal rhemoraz, I'd say we should just go now and get slaying it over with. It would hardly be a challenge for us. This one sounds different, though.
"If we prepare enough resist energy spells, we'll have a big edge in the fight. I don't think those of us who need to prepare our spells got enough shut-eye last night to really prepare new ones. Maybe we plan on heading after this thing tomorrow morning?"
"Think a moment Mage Priest. Are we sure? A typical Remorhaz uses fire to burn through it's snowy environment. If this one is a more earthy type and jewel encrusted, we might be looking at acid instead of heat."
Sesha was surprising herself in this conversation. Her time around Restlin had brought her knowledge of arcane lore leaps and bounds from her days as the tribal witch for the Ga'alin.
"Not that it matters to be. I'm sure glad my magic flows natural. It would be a real pain to have to predict whats coming all the time and .."
She stops.
"I'll ask Serenbeth."
Sesha gathers up her augery bones.
"I imagine that if we need fire resistance, I would get a -weal- here."
She casts the spell, and asks.
"Little Spirit, if we casts spells to resist fire, will it bring us weal or woe?"
She chucks the bones on the ground.
Restlin (Carl) -- AC +10/+7/+7 CMD: +15 HP: 116/116 (Spells) Luck Points: 4/14 Thursday April 7th, 2016 3:24:09 PM
Restlin shrugs. "Being forced to prepare your spells means you place your bets on the most likely outcome. Fire can tunnel through stone and earth just fine. Still, ask your spirit. Wouldn't be the first time I was wrong..."
Zane (JCC) AC 33 (34), CMB 16, CMD 32, HP 166/166, Character Thursday April 7th, 2016 4:13:21 PM "In an emergency, I can provide some resistance to various energies just remember I'm not a really powerful magician and that means my protections aren't as great as some of you others can cast." Zane tries to make himself as useful as he can, so he'll go with whoever is headed to talk to the miners. They're as rough and tumble a lot as sailor's are, so maybe Zane can appeal to their nature when they talk to them.....
Beriothian -- AC:17/11/22 HP: 152/152 CMD = 19 Thursday April 7th, 2016 5:04:45 PM
Beri turns toward the horned cleric. Burns to the touch eh? I guess this is one giant monster you can't ride like you're at the rodeo.
Bosk AC: (38/21/33) CMD: (35) hp 108/108 Spells Thursday April 7th, 2016 8:01:21 PM
Bosk chews his lip. The group had a tendency to find mutant abominations that were anything but your typical enemy, and he knew not to place all his eggs in one basket.
Approaching Five Mile Village (DM SteveK) Thursday April 7th, 2016 9:37:59 PM
Beri can't think of anything special about Rhemoraz' with encrusted under bellies.
Bosk can't find even any people even minorly hurt; these half dozen refugees were the ones who didn't stick around and were able to run fast enough and far enough and were lucky enough to have not been at ground zero. He does listen, however, and finds that all of the refugees that made it to Five Mile were all a good distance away; never closer than a couple hundred feet.
Katinka asks about the mines and learns that there is no one big mine; each miner has his own shaft or claim. None of them are very deep or elaborate, and are spread all over the dozens of hills. It is very unlikely that any of these hard-scrabble miners could have dug deep enough to have disturbed anything.
She then flies up high and looks about, and only a mile to the west in the early dawn, a horse is galloping towards Five Mile. In front of the horse, a hole opens up and the beast falls... Some tunnelling at the surface again moves towards Five Mile before it goes too deep to notice at that distance.
Sesha throws her bones and they fall perfectly into a smiley face. Weal.
RobC - Katinka Hushfoot -- AC 25/17/19 -- CMD 21 -- HP 143/143 -- Spells Thursday April 7th, 2016 10:29:14 PM "We got trouble coming!" Tink yells out as she rapidly descends "A horse - possibly with rider. A hole opened up in front of it and it fell. Only a mile away and approaching from the west!"
"Anyone not prepared to fight it should make their way towards the east NOW!"
Garret Goodbarrel [AC:34/30/28 +4 vs AOO HP:134/134 Ki:16/16 CMD: 34 SR: 24] Friday April 8th, 2016 7:24:16 AM
Garret looks around on the ground and starts grabbing up some stones for his sling.
Restlin (Carl) -- AC +10/+7/+7 CMD: +15 HP: 116/116 (Spells) Luck Points: 4/14 Friday April 8th, 2016 10:16:18 AM
Restlin nods as the bones come up weal. "You people are too paranoid. It's not like there's some greater power purposely looking for ways to trip us up."
Hearing Tink's yell, he looks around for Garret. Poor guy would be almost useless in a fight if he couldn't touch what they were fighting. Seeing the halfling, he'll cast resist energy - fire on him.
***
Resist energy blocks 30 fire damage from each fire attack made against Garret & lasts for 120 minutes. Go get'em, tiger...
Zane (JCC) AC 33 (34), CMB 16, CMD 32, HP 166/166, Character Friday April 8th, 2016 4:44:04 PM 'Restlin, you're almost right. I'm starting to think there isn't a monster as we are thinking. I'm starting to believe something is effecting their minds. Causing them to see something that would draw us here. Is there anyway we can prepare ourselves for something that powerful?"
In Zane's mind that makes sense, this monster leaving no traces doesn't.....
Beriothian -- AC:17/11/22 HP: 152/152 CMD = 19 Friday April 8th, 2016 5:17:58 PM
Beri listens to them discuss the monster, or lack there of. I think it's more likely that there is something bringing us and monsters repeatedly together. No matter what, we have to prepare to fight this thing based on what we've been told. Hey Tink, how long do you think we have before that thing gets here? I'm guessing we have a several minutes before he gets here. Let's get out of town so the village stays safe and meet whatever this is a safe distance away.
Oh, and let's decide on a strategy BEFORE it attacks.
The Iron Adventurers Strategize (DM SteveK) Friday April 8th, 2016 7:46:57 PM
Tink flies down and gives fair warning while Sesha confirms that Resist Fire will benefit the next battle.
Restlin benefits Garrett as the halfling gathers some stones.
Helmust and Jillan herd the village out towards Five Mile. It is a testament to the respect given those two is that the small village and even the refugees do not question H or J, but just start moving.
And then Beriothian starts the conversation that doesn't happen often for the heroes; they have time to prepare! What is the strategy going to be?
Restlin (Carl) -- AC +10/+7/+7 CMD: +15 HP: 116/116 (Spells) Luck Points: 4/14 Friday April 8th, 2016 7:53:10 PM
"Strategy. Right...let's see. This thing can burrow, and we really can't. Even if we could get earthglide, we'd still be on its turf.
"Tink, did you prepare a reverse gravity spell? I could tandem that with a telekinesis to get it off the ground, then we beat the stuffing out of it at range. We should still protect the melee folks in case it that plan doesn't survive first contact."
"Oh, and summon if you've got'em. Between Beri, Sesha, Tink, and myself, we can have a veritable army ready for that thing."
***
More coming later. Gotta walk while there's daylight.
RobC - Katinka Hushfoot -- AC 25/17/19 -- CMD 21 -- HP 143/143 -- Spells d20+22=39 ; Saturday April 9th, 2016 3:26:11 AM "If it's a typical Remorhaz, we'd be looking at it being here in less than 7 minutes. I think we should assume it's atypical and could be here much faster.
Lord Gargul made a point that we finish fights better than we start them. Let's coordinate this one. Beri, you sound like you have some thoughts. What's your plan?"
Tink casts Resist Energy (Fire) on Zane and on Beri, rather than on herself. Those two will likely be getting up close to the Remorhaz and will need it more than she.
Tink stays aloft some 10ft off the ground and tunes all her senses for the incoming monster. She looks about for signs of movement on the dirt and possible scorch marks. She listens very carefully for sounds coming from under the ground, and though her nose isn't as sensitive as some, she is alert for the smell of anything burning
Sesha [AC 39 /21 To/29 Fl] | HP 188/93 | CMD 22] d20+24=39 ; d100=94 ; d4+1=5 ; Saturday April 9th, 2016 9:39:19 AM
"I don't think I want to go Aurumnvorax on this one, Tink. Even with magic, that things burning is no joke."
Sesha decides she will let the others summon fighters. She would, as always, learn first and foremost on the support of those girls of serenbeth who had gone before her. All four of the sisters, plus an unknown acolyte, who she assumed had been a close ally or another girl from another time, begin to take shape.
Full round: Summon Monster 7 Ley check: 94 - No slot expended. Creature Count: 5
Restlin (Carl) -- AC +10/+7/+7 CMD: +15 HP: 116/116 (Spells) Luck Points: 4/14 Saturday April 9th, 2016 9:43:56 AM
Restlin looks around. "Am I talking to myself here? Tink. Did you memorize reverse gravity? We keep that thing from burrowing, we have a much better chance."
Bosk AC: (38/21/33) CMD: (35) hp 108/108 Spells Saturday April 9th, 2016 11:27:11 AM Does anyone know how fast these things travel or what attracts them? We need to know when we can expect it and if possible lead it away from 5 mile. Their town has been under attack too many times under our watch.
Everyone who can should use fire protection, or consider turning into something immune to fire...as long as they can still attack like that.[/b] The cleric considers handing out slings to the citizens. He has many, but even with the weapon's range decides that even with the weapon's range it is closer than he wants any of these citizens to that monster.
Addendum (DM SteveK) Saturday April 9th, 2016 3:31:31 PM
The knowledge of the casters confirms that all normal Rhemoraz have burrowing and tremor sense. A quick assessment of speed confirms that if the heroes choose to meet the monster at Five Mile, it will be here in 10-15 minutes.
Bosk's memory laughs at his thoughts; the village of Five Mile has NEVER been attacked by so much as a sick coyote, and all the villagers have left, walking towards Hook City in the morning sun. There is no one to hand out slings to.
Bosk AC: (38/21/33) CMD: (35) hp 108/108 Spells Saturday April 9th, 2016 10:36:58 PM
Bosk realizes he was thinking of Mudtown, before it relocated to 5 Mile, but still would rather avoid the town getting caught up in the battle. I suggest we move towards it as we talk. I want to make sure the town is out of range from any collateral damage.
Bosk waits to cast his spells, but will cast his protection and resistance from energy spells before the creature arrives.
RobC - Katinka Hushfoot -- AC 25/17/19 -- CMD 21 -- HP 143/143 -- Spells Sunday April 10th, 2016 1:00:54 AM "I've got reverse gravity prepared, Restlin, but unless we can get the entire Rhemoraz out of the ground it will be useless. If it's half underground, then it can hold onto the dirt around it and the spell will be useless.
I agree with Bosk. Let's try and meet it halfway and keep it from the town if possible"
Tink will fly ahead of the party, some 40ft high in the air
Restlin (Carl) -- AC +10/+7/+7 CMD: +15 HP: 116/116 (Spells) Luck Points: 4/14 Sunday April 10th, 2016 8:38:03 PM
Restlin is getting testy.
"Well no kidding, Tink." He calls after her. "First chance we have in months to prepare for a big fight where we know what we're up against, after the god of death tells us to prepare more carefully, and the only suggestion anyone cares about is GETTING CLOSER TO IT."
He breaths in, breathes out, and lets it go.
"Beri, any chance you prepared a stone to mud spell?"
In the meantime, he'll cast overland flight on himself.
Garret Goodbarrel [AC:34/30/28 +4 vs AOO HP:134/134 Ki:16/16 CMD: 34 SR: 24] Monday April 11th, 2016 9:03:06 AM
Garret looks up from where he is squatting down, picking up stones as Restlin comes over to him. He feels the protection wash over him, and he stands, dropping a handful of stones. He says, “Why thank you, I do hope that will be enough.” As Restlin turns, Garret says, “Oh hey, do you think I can grapple a Remo… Remerzaz? Rhemoo? Whatever you guys called that thing? You know, I did grapple a dragon once…” He smiles and winks as Restlin heads over to call out to Tink.
When discussions about strategy start, Garret adds, “Well, I don’t have much to contribute in the way of magic. With that protection that Restlin has given me, I should be able to get close to it, but if this one emits something other than fire, I will be standing back. I like the idea of the summoned creatures, but from what I’m hearing, that thing will likely be quite powerful and summoned creatures may not last long.”
“Does anyone know what those things like to eat? Maybe if we can’t outright kill it, we can lead it away somewhere else. After all, it came from somewhere else, right? Maybe it’s just lost and needs someone to lead it back to, well, wherever it calls home. That or off a cliff, whichever one we find first, right?”
OOC: In effect: resist energy, fire (blocks 30 points)
Sesha [AC 39 /21 To/29 Fl] | HP 188/93 | CMD 22] Monday April 11th, 2016 10:40:03 AM
Sesha grins.
"Anything smaller than it is Garret, tends to be it's preferred food. Like you, but meaner and without arms and legs."
Confronting the Creature (DM SteveK) Monday April 11th, 2016 1:42:34 PM
OOC: MudTown did not relocate to Five Mile. MudTown is still thousands of temporary people and those that live off those temporary people outside the walls of Hook City. About 50 people, mostly those with personal connections to the Iron Adventurers left MudTown to establish a permanent hamlet of Five Mile.
Bosk agrees to march westward towards the creature to reduce collateral damage of the village. He doesn't cast any spells yet, hoping he will get some advance warning before the creature arrives. (Bosk is going to have to guess on when to cast spells or provide some means of knowing when the underground burrowed is almost there...)
Katinka and Restlin get into a bit of a discussion on what tactics they can use other than moving in between the town and the hole that swallowed the horse. They are also both flying for more of a bird's eye view.
Garrett is happy for the Resist Fire spell, and tosses his rocks as he speculates on what a Rhemoraz eats.
Sesha has the witty reply, anything it wants to. ......
The Iron Adventurers have moved west about a quarter mile from the village of Five Mile, an easy five minutes walk. They are about 1/4 of the way to the hole.
......
Garrett's Protect Fire has 5 minutes or 50 rounds duration gone.
Beriothian -- AC:17/11/22 HP: 152/152 CMD = 19 Monday April 11th, 2016 5:20:40 PM
Beri looks around... Well, short of luring the thing to a location where we have an advantage, I think this will do nicely. How long do you figure we have left before things start? We still have a minute or two right?
Bosk AC: (38/21/33) CMD: (35) hp 108/108 Spells Monday April 11th, 2016 9:46:59 PM
Bosk realizes his understanding of 5 mile and MudTown is even further off than he initially suspected and decided to spend some time studying geography upon returning to Hook City. In response to Beri's comment he shrugs. I personally have no way of knowing. None of my spells can help us unless unless I make this thing as my nemesis, and as far as I know we were the ones that disturbed its home. Can anyone else tell when it will be here or if it is evil? If so, I might have a spell that could help us.Also, I have 2 scrolls of resist energy if anyone needs it. Unfortunately, my spells are not optimal for today's battle.
Bosk quickly casts protection from fire, resist energy fire, Air Walk and magic circle against evil centered on himself. He will also offer to cast resist energy from a scroll SL2 CL4 on 2 people.
Sesha [AC 39 /21 To/29 Fl] | HP 188/93 | CMD 22] Monday April 11th, 2016 10:03:16 PM
Sesha shakes her head no at Bosk.
"It's a beast. Powerful and intelligent, but likely not to have any care on the struggles of good and evil."
She pulls her broom from her back, something she's not done in awhile, and prepares it for flight.
"Don't want this thing to smoke pot-pot.", she explains. "It's still not legal everywhere."
Zane (JCC) AC 33 (34), CMB 16, CMD 32, HP 166/166, Character Monday April 11th, 2016 10:28:00 PM
post coming later(not at home)
Garret Goodbarrel [AC:34/30/28 +4 vs AOO HP:134/134 Ki:16/16 CMD: 34 SR: 24] d20+22=42 ; Tuesday April 12th, 2016 8:17:37 AM
When Sesha mentions the preferred food of the potential enemy, Garret pauses, then says, “Speaking of food, I am running a little low on snacks, would you have anything extra around at the moment?”
When the group pauses and Bosk casks some spells, Garret puts his head to the ground and listens (perception: 42). He watches as a number take to the air. He calls out to Sesha, “Any tips on fighting this guy from the inside? If you all are up there, I’m guessing I’ll get eaten first!”
OOC: Resist energy, fire (blocks 30 points): 5 minutes/120 minutes used
Restlin (Carl) -- AC +10/+7/+7 CMD: +15 HP: 116/116 (Spells) Luck Points: 4/14 Tuesday April 12th, 2016 10:25:21 AM
"Come here, Garret. I'm not done with you yet."
Restlin will cast greater magic weapon on Garret, giving him +3 to hit and damage for the next 12 hours on his unarmed strikes.
He waits to see if Tink or Garret can determine how long they have until this thing arrives.
Zane (JCC) AC 33 (34), CMB 16, CMD 32, HP 166/166, Character Tuesday April 12th, 2016 1:49:22 PM "Garret, step closer." Zane casts Heroism and Stoneskin to Garret as well as himself. (duration 80 minutes(both) 80 points damage reduction before gone) Zane then says, "If you're all close enough, I'll cast a haste at the last moment before we start fighting." Zane will add a Enlarge Person, Shield Spell and a fly spell to himself. "I'd rather find a way to avoid this fight, but not being prepared to actually fight would be stupid. So any ideas on how to redirect this thing? Can anyone actually converse with it to find out what the trouble is?"
Restlin (Carl) -- AC +10/+7/+7 CMD: +15 HP: 116/116 (Spells) Luck Points: 4/14 Tuesday April 12th, 2016 2:07:00 PM
"Giants are known to speak to these things, but I don't speak giant. Tink probably does. She speaks everything.
"Still, when we say these things are intelligent, that doesn't mean they're smart. Unless this particular remorhaz is different, which it very well could be, it won't be speaking back to us. We're talking barely smarter than your average dog."
Beriothian -- AC:17/11/22 HP: 152/152 CMD = 19 Tuesday April 12th, 2016 5:49:35 PM Zane, as much as it pains me to say this, we should give up the notion of peaceful resolution. If a Rhemoraz understands Giant, it can't actually speak it. Unless it's a trained Rhemoraz... but even then, it will obey the person that trained it, not us.
Zane (JCC) AC 33 (34), CMB 16, CMD 32, HP 166/166, Character Tuesday April 12th, 2016 7:46:55 PM "I was only offering a possible option, as you can see I am prepping for a fight.and not a pow-wow."
RobC - Katinka Hushfoot -- AC 25/17/19 -- CMD 21 -- HP 143/143 -- Spells Tuesday April 12th, 2016 8:04:57 PM "If we see it, I'll try and speak to it in giant. By all accounts its not a typical rhemoraz. It might actually be able to speak back.
First thing though is finding it."
Crackling Sound Like Frying Bacon. (DM SteveK) Tuesday April 12th, 2016 8:36:20 PM
The heroes look around and hope they will met the Rhemoraz away from the village. Some spells are cast and Sesha also takes to the sky.
Garrett complains about food, but then presses his ear to the ground and..
The sounds of crackling like an underground furnace are close! The halfling thinks it is only a few feet away!
NOTE: Greater Magic Weapon provides no bonus to Garrett. GMW and Amulet of Fists do not stack.
Bosk AC: (38/21/33) CMD: (35) hp 108/108 Spells Tuesday April 12th, 2016 9:25:31 PM
Realizing the creature is almost upon the group Bosk begins giving out instructions, following Gargul's command to start battles better. Spread out so that it cannot rise up and hit us all at once. Those who can fly stay slightly off the ground. If you cannot fly come to me and grab on so you will not fall in.
Zane (JCC) AC 33 (34), CMB 16, CMD 32, HP 166/166, Character Wednesday April 13th, 2016 12:55:14 AM
As Zane senses the creature is close, he takes to the air as well, knowing it's usually hard to "feel" someone walking on the ground if they are in the air. He also shifts to one side, spreading out a bit, but ready to rush in....
Restlin (Carl) -- AC +10/+7/+7 CMD: +15 HP: 116/116 (Spells) Luck Points: 4/14 Wednesday April 13th, 2016 10:30:15 AM
OOC: Didn't realize Garret had such a necklace, and is seems that Zane has one too. Hope you'll let me retcon some here, otherwise no big deal.
***
Restlin frowns as he sees Garret's necklace. His spell won't have any effect on the halfling. So, he looks to Zane...who has the same necklace. "Someone's getting this spell," he thinks to himself. So, he casts it on Bosk's bastard sword, which he believes is non-magical, just really nicely made.
Then it hits him that most of his offensive spells are fire-based. He sighs, but knows that he has more tricks up his sleeve that will help in this battle.
"If anyone has a spare resist energy spell, I'll take one. I gave the one I prepared to Garret since he'll need it, and mine are pretty powerful."
Either way, Restlin will fly about 40' up in the air once the spell is cast (or isn't).
Garret Goodbarrel [AC:36/32/30; +4 vs AOO HP:134/134 Ki:16/16 CMD: 34 SR: 24] Wednesday April 13th, 2016 11:12:56 AM
Garret enjoys the magic as he listens to the ground. He thanks, Restlin and then says, “I don’t think that worked right.” His body shimmers a moment as Zane provides him with yet more defense. He thanks Zane as he touches his own tattoo on his neck and his skin flashes blue briefly (cast barkskin).
Then he hears the sound and jumps up, his feet actually leaving the ground. “HEY!” he cries out, “I think it’s here!” When Garret hears Bosk, he tiptoes over to Bosk and wraps his arm around a leg. He whispers, “Hey, if you want, you can fly up and drop me onto the monster, that’s always fun.”
Sesha [AC 39 /21 To/29 Fl] | HP 188/93 | CMD 22] d100=62 ; Wednesday April 13th, 2016 11:36:25 AM
Sesha directs her broom upwards, calling out to her summons.
"Do your best to say over the worm, but out of it's way. It's attacks shouldn't hurt you, but I want you girls on healing detail."
She reaches Restlin, and grants him a protection from energy spell.
"All for you."
Beriothian -- AC:17/11/22 HP: 152/152 CMD = 19 Wednesday April 13th, 2016 6:06:56 PM Turning into an air elemental, I'll try to keep out of reach and target it with magic... That should also give anyone who speaks Giant a chance to a peaceful resolution.
Beri spreads out away from the group a ways and trans forms into a
*** Huge air elemental transformation benefits darkvision 60 feet, and the ability to create a whirlwind. immune to bleed damage, critical hits, and sneak attacks while in elemental form and gain DR 5/—. gain a +4 size bonus to your Strength, +6 size bonus to your Dexterity, and a +4 natural armor bonus. You also gain fly 120 feet (perfect).
King Rhemoraz! (DM SteveK) Wednesday April 13th, 2016 9:31:59 PM
Katinka, Restlin, Sesha, Zane, Bosk and Beriothian are all airborne, using various spells and knick-knacks. Quick spells are cast.
Garrett grabs ahold of Bosk's leg for a furry ride.
And none too soon! Garrett's listening to the ground gave the heroes just enough warning as the ground collapses beneath their feet! A 40' diameter hole appears where the party used to be, and 30 feet below the surface is the front part of a colossal Rhemoraz! It is easily the largest anyone has ever heard of, and encrusted all over with gems embedded in its carapace. It shrieks, thwarted in an easy kill and the glands along its body glow like lava. Feel that way too, for the heroes feel the heat coming from below from 30 feet below the earth!
......
Combat Rounds!
RobC - Katinka Hushfoot -- AC 25/17/19 -- CMD 21 -- HP 143/143 -- Spells Wednesday April 13th, 2016 9:33:26 PM
Tink finally casts Protection from Energy (Fire) on herself, and ascends to 40ft in the air to join Restlin.
"Once more into the fray?" She grins to him "Ok, Let's give this a shot"
In giant, Tink yells out as loudly as a halfling can: If you speak giant Highlight to display spoiler: {"Great and powerful worm, would you rise to the surface and grace us with your presence? We wish to speak"}
Zane (JCC) AC 33 (34), CMB 16, CMD 32, HP 166/166, Character Wednesday April 13th, 2016 11:03:28 PM
Zane casts Haste on all that are close enough..... (8 rounds duration) The he moves away, trying to split up even further, so as to avoid any area effect things this beast may try.
Restlin (Carl) -- AC +15/+12/+11 CMD: +15 HP: 116/116 (Spells) Luck Points: 5/14 d20+13=29 ; d20=3 ; Thursday April 14th, 2016 9:39:54 AM
As Tink tries to speak with this thing, Restlin really, really hopes she'll succeed. He wants to know where this thing came from. How does something like this live 5' miles away from Hook City in complete secrecy up until now? Or did it just move here? Did Mhalice send it?
Great. Now he was doing it.
He begins summoning some assistance in case this goes belly up.
***
Move: Hover (Fly check: 29) Standard: Cast summon monster VI - Summoning a Lillend Azata at the start of the next round. They fly, so I'll summon her right next to me.
Spells in effect:
Overland flight Mage armor Resist energy - fire
Haste - 8 rounds
AC this round is 18/15/14
Beriothian -- AC:17/11/22 HP: 152/152 CMD = 19 Thursday April 14th, 2016 4:56:08 PM Wow, we guessed the right thing? I guess there is a first time for everything. I wonder how it got so big... I really wish we were in a position where we could study this thing. Well, I'm not about to summon something that can't handle the the touch of this thing.
Beri makes sure he is out of range of the creature, and spread out enough that any surprises attacks this thing may have will be unlikely to hit more than one person. He then starts summoning a huge fire elemental to aid in the ground fight.
*** Huge air elemental transformation benefits darkvision 60 feet, and the ability to create a whirlwind. immune to bleed damage, critical hits, and sneak attacks while in elemental form and gain DR 5/—. gain a +4 size bonus to your Strength, +6 size bonus to your Dexterity, and a +4 natural armor bonus. You also gain fly 120 feet (perfect).
Garret Goodbarrel [AC:36/32/30; +4 vs AOO HP:134/134 Ki:16/16 CMD: 34 SR: 24] Thursday April 14th, 2016 6:36:04 PM
Garret just holds on for life, looking over at Tink and her calling out to the creature and then back down to the very firey creature. He says to himself, "I hope this magic really works good, that looks really hot."
King Rhemoraz! (DM SteveK) d6=2 ; d20+37=54 ; 10d6+22=57 ; Thursday April 14th, 2016 8:49:58 PM
Katinka, from 40 feet up and skilled enough to hover without a problem (DC 15) tries her best at a diplomatic solution.
Zane also hovers without a problem, casts Haste, and is able to get himself, Bosk, And Garrett in the spell.
Restlin hovers without a problem (thank you for the skill check!), and begins casting a complicated summoning 40 feet above the ground.
Beri-elemental also hovers high above and begins his own summoning.
Garrett keeps ahold of Bosk and ahold of his humor, waiting to see if Karinka's gambit pays off. .........
If the Rhemoraz understands Katinka, it gives no sign. Instead, it surges upwards to attack! The beast is so large that even 20 feet away, it lashes it at Zane! (AC 57. Dam 57 and grabbed!)
Zane, Garrett, and Bosk can feel the heat from the monster, burning against their protections. .......
Rhemoraz. AC 35. Heat damage each round after PC actions.
Restlin (Carl) -- AC +15/+12/+11 CMD: +15 HP: 116/116 (Spells) Luck Points: 5/14 d20+17=36 ; d20=10 ; Thursday April 14th, 2016 10:04:08 PM
The lillend pops into existence next to Restlin. In soothly, twinkly celestial, he speaks with her. "Hey there! We've got ourselves an epic fight going on. Mind providing some appropriately epic accompaniment?"
He hopes someone can help Zane. He can't think of anything he could do to help. He could cast grease on the minotaur to help it escape, but that would probably just make him easier to swallow.
He instead begins summoning more help.
***
Move: Fly 10' up to 50' - Fly check 36 Standard: Cast summon monster V to summon a Bralani Azata
Lillend Azata inspiring courage - +2 to attack & damage, +2 to saves vs. charm & fear
Spells in effect:
Overland flight Mage armor Resist energy - fire
Haste - 7 rounds Summon Monster VI (Lillend): 18 rounds
AC this round is 25/22/21
Bosk AC: (38/21/33) CMD: (35) hp 108/108 Spells Thursday April 14th, 2016 10:31:51 PM
Bosk takes a second to look at the King Rhemoraz and observes the attack as he tries to determine exactly how big it is and what its reach is. Knowing this will help him better determine his tactics. Knowing this he waits to see what Garret will do and trying to coordinate attacks with him.
Is this too close for you Garret? If you need, I can darkwalk which will help with any saves we need to make.
Zane (JCC) AC 33 (34), CMB 16, CMD 32, HP 119/166, Character d20+17=32 ; d20+21=38 ; Thursday April 14th, 2016 10:32:28 PM
Zane gets bitten "Yeeeouch!" is yelled as it happens. He slips away from the beast. (weave elements:water vest) As he moves away he goes into combat maneuvers. (flying acrobatics) *It has a reach that's greater than mine at this size, stay away if you don't want to be lunch.We're gonna need a whole lot of healing for this.* As Zane moves away he wants to see if he can spot anything that may be forcing or causing the beast to be attacking the group.
Acrobatics 32 Perception 38
(will add spells later)
RobC - Katinka Hushfoot -- AC 25/17/19 -- CMD 21 -- HP 143/143 -- Spells Thursday April 14th, 2016 10:33:57 PM "Er, diplomacy isn't working!" Tink shouts out the obvious to those below.
Like Restlin, she begins to cast a summoning spell to bring in some aid (Summon Monster VII)
Garret Goodbarrel [AC:36/32/30; +4 vs AOO HP:134/134 Ki:16/16 CMD: 34 SR: 24] Friday April 15th, 2016 12:46:29 PM
Garret says to Bosk, "I don't know, that thing is really, really big. I think we need field artillery like catapults or a giant or something. That would take a long time to beat into submission, I think." He continues to hold on while considering if it really is wise to drop down and take it on face-to face.
Bosk AC: (38/21/33) CMD: (35) hp 108/108 Spells Friday April 15th, 2016 6:14:21 PM Let me know what you want to do. We should either move in or move out of its reach.
With a gesture and a shout, Sesha sends her ghosts up to help zane. All of them giggle and tease the minotaur.
"The bull-man has a hole in him! We can fix it!"
As one, they try and heal his wounds.
(Cure light wounds x5. Heal for 43 hp)
Sesha herself is at a loss. When in doubt, throw tactics out. She reaches for a spell and flings it, trying to like it down with enchantments.
Hold Monster - DC DC 23 Ley check - 86 - no slot expended
Bosk AC: (38/21/33) CMD: (35) hp 108/108 Spells Friday April 15th, 2016 7:31:19 PM
Bosk wipes a bead of swear off his brow as he waits for a response from Garret. As an Avenger he learned to shut out all fear, but that training did not extend to blocking out oven like temperatures when you have a body covered in fur. Briefly he wishes he cast Rose's Temperature Control on himself, and he decides if Garret does not respond with an option he will he will merge with the Shadow Realm and Darkwalk with Garret in and rise as far as he can in hopes partially entering another dimension gives him some relief from the rising heat, moving at a 45 degree angle as he spirals upwards over the pit.
(SU) Gain concealment, a 20% miss chance, a +2 resistance bonus to saves, and a +8 bonus to Stealth checks
Beriothian -- AC:17/11/22 HP: 152/152 CMD = 19 d20+21=35 ; d20+21=27 ; 2d6+10=17 ; 2d6+10=17 ; Friday April 15th, 2016 11:09:34 PM
A huge flaming fire elemental spawns and uncurls itself below the IA. Beri looks down at the marvelous beast and realizes that it is still dwarfed by the size of the Rhemoraz This won't do... let's see if we can help this guy out. Beri gazes down to his huge fire elemental and casts Animal Growth on the elemental, then flys higher as the serpent quickly doubles in size
***Beri's relevant Form details*** Huge air elemental transformation benefits darkvision 60 feet, and the ability to create a whirlwind. immune to bleed damage, critical hits, and sneak attacks while in elemental form and gain DR 5/—. gain a +4 size bonus to your Strength, +6 size bonus to your Dexterity, and a +4 natural armor bonus. You also gain fly 120 feet (perfect). *********
Beri's "Gargantuan" fire elemental: hp 85(+20aug +20AG)=125 (immune fire) As soon as he spawns the elemental feels a surge of power and realizes immediately that the druid is on his side and that the other fire beast must not be a friend. slam 1 (+12 strength) attack 1=35 (2d6+10 plus burn)=17 slam 2 attack 2=27 (2d6+10 plus burn)=17 ***active spells*** (augmented summoning)+4 enhancement bonus to Strength and Constitution (animal Growth)+8 size bonus to Strength and a +4 size bonus to Constitution (and thus an extra 2 hit points per HD), and imposes a -2 size penalty to Dexterity. The creature's existing natural armor bonus increases by 2. T
**let me know if you would like more info, or another format on the summoned creatures***
King Rhemoraz! Round 2 (DM SteveK) d20+13=27 ; d20+37=52 ; d100=32 ; 10d6+22=65 ; Saturday April 16th, 2016 4:01:49 PM
Restlin summons a Lillend who begins an inspirational song of courage. Restlin doesn't stop there and begins another summoning.
Zane, his magical water cloak from Katinka enabling him to escape certain swallowing zips back and forth and away, not giving any opportunity for the Rhemoraz to strike again!
Katinka knows diplomacy will be no good and starts her own summoning
Garrett wonders if he should get dropped onto the monster 20 feet away.
Bosk waits for an answer from Garett
Sesha calls for her ghost-friends to heal part of Zane's injuries, The witch herself tries a successful spell from the past, but the great monster shrugs it off!
Bosk melds with Garrett into the Shadow realm and rises up to 10 feet above the ground.
Beri brings in a huge fire elemental which attacks and manages to strike the Rhemoraz! It is obvious that the flame of the elemental doesn't bother the monster in the least. Beri gets ready to cast Animal Growth and then stops; he knows the spell will only work on 'animals' and the elemental is an 'outsider'. (Spell not used; elemental is only HUGE) .......
The colossal monster shrieks, and rises a little more out of the hole, but most of the colossal monster is still underground. No hero is within 30 feet, and though they feel the heat from its body, it doesn't quite burn.
The Rhemoraz ignores the elemental, smart enough to know a greater threat. And the easiest and largest target for the colossal monster is Bosk, and the beast rises up to within 20 feet to attack the Minotaur with a halfling clinging to its leg! Great jaws snap shut and wounds the blonde Taur! (AC 52. 32% hit! Dam 65)
.........
Rhemoraz. AC 35. Dam. 15
RobC - Katinka Hushfoot -- AC 25/17/19 -- CMD 21 -- HP 143/143 -- Spells d3=3 ; d8=3 ; d8=3 ; d8=7 ; d20+20=32 ; Sunday April 17th, 2016 1:36:37 AM
Tink completes her summoning spell, and answering her call are (d3=3!) 3 Lilend Azatas! Tink is quick to issue orders
"You two! Please start a performance to inspire competance! You there, please start a performance to inspire courage! I know that lilend azata over there - " she says pointing to the azata Restlin summoned "- is already performing such a tune, but now we can have some redundancy. And would you all please kindly cast sound burst spells at the gigantic remorhaz?"
Tink for her part then casts a Telekinesis spell. Focusing all her power, she then tries to grapple the beast!
--------------- Lilend Azata #1 - Move action to start Inspire Competance performance granting +4 to skill checks to those within 30ft Lilend Azata #1 - Standard action to cast sound burst so as to affect the Remorhaz and noone else. Remorhaz takes 3pts Sonic dmg and must make a Fort Save vs DC16 or be Stunned for 1 round
Lilend Azata #2 - Move action to start Inspire Competance performance granting +4 to skill checks to those within 30ft Lilend Azata #2 - Standard action to cast sound burst so as to affect the Remorhaz and noone else. Remorhaz takes 3pts Sonic dmg and must make a Fort Save vs DC16 or be Stunned for 1 round
Lilend Azata #3 - Move action to start Inspire Courage performance granting +2 to attack rolls and weapon damage rolls Lilend Azata #3 - Standard action to cast sound burst so as to affect the Remorhaz and noone else. Remorhaz takes 7pts Sonic dmg and must make a Fort Save vs DC16 or be Stunned for 1 round
Tink - Move action to fly another 20ft in the air to reach 60ft high Tink - Standard action to cast Telekinesis. CMB = 14 Caster Level + 7 Int Bonus - 1 Size = +20. Tink rolls: 32 + 2 from the Inspire Courage performance = 34.
Zane (JCC) AC 33 (34), CMB 16, CMD 32, HP 162/166, Character d20+16=27 ; 2d6+5=11 ; Sunday April 17th, 2016 3:44:47 PM
Staying airborn and a good 90' away from the beast, Zane pulls out his composite bow. He only gets off a single shot because he had to dig the bow out of the quiver.... *not sure how much damage I'll be doing but it's my only ranged attack.....Any suggestions will be taken into consideration....* is sent over the link
Bow attacks 27 damage 11 (+2 more for arcane strike which Zane does every round every combat)
Garret Goodbarrel [AC:36/32/30; +4 vs AOO HP:134/134 Ki:16/16 CMD: 34 SR: 24] Monday April 18th, 2016 8:43:12 AM
Garret gasps as the massive creatures chomps a large portion out of Bosk! He closes his eyes as chunks of blood and flesh splatter all around. He calls out, “Bosk, Bosk, are you okay? Can you get us away from this thing?!?” He continues to hold on, thinking he really would be little more than a snack for that massive beast.
OOC: Stoneskin: DR 10/adamantine – 80 points/80 minutes remain Resist energy, fire (blocks 30 points): 115 minutes remain Barkskin: 30 minutes remain Haste +2 to hit from Azata +4 skill checks from Azata While hanging on Bosk: Concealment, 20% miss change, +2 saves, +8 Stealth
Restlin (Carl) -- AC +16/+13/+11 CMD: +15 HP: 116/116 (Spells) Luck Points: 8/14 d20=5 ; d20+17=31 ; d20+19=24 ; Monday April 18th, 2016 10:11:10 AM
The Iron Adventurers are not prepared for this sort of threat. This sort of threat requires siege weaponry and careful planning, not get out of bed and go kill it at a moment's notice planning.
Engaging in melee combat with it is suicide, and the party just doesn't have much ranged power. Restlin's the closest they have, and most of his spells at the moment are fire-based and useless.
Still, he finishes his summons. Maybe he's wrong. The Bralani pops into existence right below him. Calling out again in celestial, he states, "Sorry about this, buddy, but do you mind seeing if you can't help us with that giant Remorhaz?"
Restlin's pretty sure the guy's going to get creamed pretty quickly, but we'll see. Gripping Shiny, he asks the blade to make him smarter before he casts a repulsion spell on himself, hoping to prevent the thing from being able to attack him at all.
***
Move: Fly 20' up to 70' - Fly check 31 Standard: Cast repulsion - 120' radius (the remorhaz is unable to move any closer to me if he's already within this radius, which I'm almost positive it is) - Will DC 24
Lillend Azata - inspiring courage - +2 to attack & damage, +2 to saves vs. charm & fear Bralani Azata - change to whirlwind form
Beriothian -- AC:17/11/22 HP: 152/152 CMD = 19 d20+19=34 ; d20+19=35 ; 2d6+6=15 ; 2d6+6=14 ; Monday April 18th, 2016 5:36:27 PM Beri's Huge fire elemental: hp 85(+20aug )=105 (immune fire)- 12 rounds remaining As soon as he spawns the elemental feels a surge of power and realizes immediately that the druid is on his side and that the other fire beast must not be a friend. slam 1 (+4 strength) attack 1=35 damage=15 (+ 4... accidentally doped the base value when recalculating for smaller size)=19 slam 2 attack 2=27 damage=14 (+ 4... accidentally doped the base value when recalculating for smaller size)=18 ***active spells*** (augmented summoning)+4 enhancement bonus to Strength and Constitution inspire Courage performance granting +2 to attack Inspire Competance performance granting +4 to skill check
Beriothian -- AC:17/11/22 HP: 152/152 CMD = 19 Monday April 18th, 2016 6:05:20 PM Can't use fire against this thing. And I don't think sleet storm will do any good either... I I think I have an idea. Beri, going off of the range of Bosk when he was attacked, verifies he's at a safe distance then starts to cast "call lightning storm".
***Beri's relevant Form details*** Huge air elemental transformation benefits darkvision 60 feet, and the ability to create a whirlwind. immune to bleed damage, critical hits, and sneak attacks while in elemental form and gain DR 5/—. gain a +4 size bonus to your Strength, +6 size bonus to your Dexterity, and a +4 natural armor bonus. You also gain fly 120 feet (perfect). ********* 0 (4)- Detect Magic, Light, Create Water, Detect Poison 1 (7)- *Elf Vision, Faerie Firex2, Entangle, cure light wounds x2, 2 (6)- *Faerie Fire, Fog Cloud, Soften Earth and Stone, Warp Wood, resist energy, Flaming Sphere, restoration lesser 3 (6)- *Glibness, Sleet Storm, quench, Greater Magic Fang, wind wall, Cure Moderate Wounds, Stone Shape 4 (6)- *Lesser Planar Ally, dispel magic, cure serious wounds, Freedom of Movement, Air Walk x2, Control Water 5 (5)- *Awaken, Animal Growth, Call Lightning Storm, Call Lightning Storm(2), Wall of Thorns, Cure Critical Wounds 6 (3)- *Legend Lore, Antilife shell, Dispel Magic(Greater) 7 (2)- *Irresistible Dance , Heal, Heal(2) ***
King Rhemoraz! Round 3 (DM SteveK) d20=3 ; d20=15 ; d20=12 ; d20+21=38 ; Monday April 18th, 2016 6:53:21 PM
Katinka's Lillends sing and cast, helping those flying near the casters (Katinka, Restlin, Beri, and Sasha). They are able to damage the great creature slightly, but it easily shrugs off the electrical pin-pricks.
Katinka herself screws up her magic, and is able to telekineticly grapple the colossal Rhemoraz!
Zane flies back and begins a long-range attack, though his first shot glances harmlessly off the jewel studded carapace!
Garrett continues to hold on and wait for an opportunity.
Restlin's atzatas prepare for a fight, and the wizard himself casts a nifty spell to stop the Rhemoraz from approaching closer to the heroes, and through them, the Village of Five Mile.
Beri's fire elemental continues to have surprising succes, ripping more scales away.
The Druid himself begins casting a veritable storm to assist the heroes; and dark clouds gather over the battle! .......
The Rhemoraz shakes off Katinka's telekinesis, stymied for the moment by the heroes! .......
King Rhemoraz. AC 35. CMD 28. Dam 47
Bosk AC: (38/21/33) CMD: (35) hp 68/108 Spells d20+12=24 ; d8=2 ; d8=1 ; d8=5 ; d8=2 ; Monday April 18th, 2016 6:57:18 PM
Bosk winces at the pain and defensively casts CSW on himself, sacrificing his invisibillity purge spell. As his wounds begin to knit back together he finds himself wishing he cast a more powerful spell, this one much less effective than normal.
Realizing the situation he is in, the horned cleric flies (air walk) to the side, moving out of the creature's enormous reach...hoping he will live long enough to restore himself and pay the creature back for the damage it did.
Cast defensively = 24 Heal 20dmg
Zane (JCC) AC 33 (34), CMB 16, CMD 32, HP 162/166, Character d20+18=26 ; d20+13=30 ; d20+18=24 Monday April 18th, 2016 10:38:56 PM
Zane attempts some more bow shots.. he might get lucky, even though he's never really been too lucky. He misses with a couple of his pot shots and the haste shot. "Never was very good with a bow...This just proves it."
RobC - Katinka Hushfoot -- AC 25/17/19 -- CMD 21 -- HP 143/143 -- Spells d20+20=37 ; d8=8 ; d8=7 ; d8=5 ; Tuesday April 19th, 2016 12:45:37 AM
The azatas keep up their attacks as directed by Katinka, despite the attacks being but pinpricks in the beasts hide.
Tink concentrates to block out the surrounding battle. For the moment, there is just her, her breathing and her heart beat. She finds a type of peace in that moment. But then she recalls Beri's death. How it felt to be connected with him when he died. From those feelings comes anger and renewed focus. With the feelings of peace now lost, Tink exerts all her mental strength to grapple the Rhemoraz once more.
----------------------- Lilend Azata #1 - Free action to continue Inspire Competance performance granting +4 to skill checks to those within 30ft Lilend Azata #1 - Standard action to cast sound burst so as to affect the Remorhaz and noone else. Remorhaz takes 8pts Sonic dmg and must make a Fort Save vs DC16 or be Stunned for 1 round
Lilend Azata #2 - Free action to continue Inspire Competance performance granting +4 to skill checks to those within 30ft Lilend Azata #2 - Standard action to cast sound burst so as to affect the Remorhaz and noone else. Remorhaz takes 7pts Sonic dmg and must make a Fort Save vs DC16 or be Stunned for 1 round
Lilend Azata #3 - Free action to continue Inspire Courage performance granting +2 to attack rolls and weapon damage rolls Lilend Azata #3 - Standard action to cast sound burst so as to affect the Remorhaz and noone else. Remorhaz takes 5pts Sonic dmg and must make a Fort Save vs DC16 or be Stunned for 1 round
Tink - Standard action to use Telekinesis to grapple. CMB = 14 Caster Level + 7 Int Bonus - 1 Size = +20. Tink rolls: 37 + 2 from the Inspire Courage performance = 39! CMD to escape = 10 + 14 + 7 - 1 = 30
Bosk AC: (38/21/33) CMD: (35) hp 98/108 Spells d8=8 ; d8=3 ; d8=1 ; d8=6 ; d8=3 ; Tuesday April 19th, 2016 7:32:59 AM
Bosk calls down to Garret, Hanging in there? There is little I can do, but as long as Tink keeps grappling that thing I think I can survive long enough to do some damage. Care to join me?
Bosk waits for a response from Garret before making any moves. If they decide not to attack he will heal himself sacrificing a 4th lvl spell (restoration).
Garret Goodbarrel [AC:36/32/30; +4 vs AOO HP:134/134 Ki:16/16 CMD: 34 SR: 24] Tuesday April 19th, 2016 8:22:48 AM
Garret replies, "Well, we're not doing too much good just hanging around here, are we?" He looks down and says, "Incoming!"
Restlin (Carl) -- AC +16/+13/+11 CMD: +15 HP: 116/116 (Spells) Luck Points: 8/14 d20+17=35(Ray of enfeeblement) ; d20+17=37 (Disintegrate); d20+17=20 (Crit confirm) ; 24d6=72 (Disintegrate damage) ; 24d6=77 (Disintegrate crit damage) ; d20+19=23 (Disintegrate fort save) ; d6+5=11 (Ray of enfeeblement STR damage) ; d20+9=24 (Ray of enfeeblement fort save) ; d20=20 (AC); d20+17=28 (fly skill check) ; 7d6=23 ; Tuesday April 19th, 2016 10:13:38 AM
Seeing Tink's success with grappling the beast, he decides it may be their best bet, but only if she can keep the thing pinned while the melee folks beat it down. He also knows that spell will only last about two minutes, and that's probably not enough time to defeat it, so he holds on to his own telekinesis spell to take over when her's runs out.
He will, however, make sure he's close enough to her to give her some extra luck.
Whipping out his quicken rod, he channels an ugly, black ray through it. Then, with his free hand, sends a narrow, pin-point green beam at the beast, vaporizing a nice chunk of the thing.
Meanwhile, his lillend azata continues playing. His bralani, now in whirlwind form, shoots 100' straight up into the air before stopping & aiming a bolt of lightning at the beast.
***
Move: If applicable, fly to within 20' of Tink. Fly check 28 Swift: Ray of enfeeblement - hits touch AC 35 - 11 STR damage - Fort save DC 24 for half Standard: Cast disintegrate - hits touch AC 37 (nat 20) - threat confirm: touch AC 20 - 149 damage - Fort save DC23 for half damage
Lillend Azata - inspiring courage - +2 to attack & damage, +2 to saves vs. charm & fear Bralani Azata - Fly 100' up (has perfect flying ability) + lightning bolt - 23 damage, reflex 17 for half
Sesha shakes off her momentary stupor. It's as if something was taxing her concentration, like a sudden deadline was approaching.
She directs her ghost brigade once more, sending the five of them down towards the monstrous worm. She wasn't sure if it's natural heat would hurt her incorporeal allies. She didn't think so, not unless it was a magical effect, but to be sure..
"Only one of you go in first! If she's fine, the rest can follow!"
1st Ghost: Hit touch AC 12 for 13 damage. Fort DC 17 for half.
The rest - if the first one doesn't burn.
Hits Touch AC: 23, 26, 15, 26. for 16, 17, 17, and 25 damage. , Fort DC 17 for half.
Sesha [AC 39 /21 To/29 Fl] | HP 188/93 | CMD 22] d20+24=26 ; d100=42 ; Tuesday April 19th, 2016 2:53:39 PM
For her own part, Sesha casts a minor spell, Reduce Person. She might need to retrieve Garret, and two small folk could sit on her flying broom easily enough.
Bosk AC: (38/21/33) CMD: (35) hp 98/108 Spells Tuesday April 19th, 2016 7:23:57 PM
Hearing Garrets reply, Bosk heals himself and then dives down to the monster. I am trusting you to keep this thing subdued before we get barbecued.
Beriothian -- AC:17/11/22 HP: 152/152 CMD = 19 d20+19=33 ; d20+19=30 ; 2d6+10=22 ; 2d6+10=13 ; Tuesday April 19th, 2016 8:06:47 PM Beri's Huge fire elemental: hp 85(+20aug )=105 (immune fire)- 11 rounds remaining The fire elemental, knowing any fire attacks would be fruitless, continues to slam into the Rhemoraz to the best of his ability:
slam 1 (+4 strength) attack 1=33 damage=22
slam 2 attack 2=30 damage=13 ***active spells*** (augmented summoning)+4 enhancement bonus to Strength and Constitution inspire Courage performance granting +2 to attack Inspire Competence performance granting +4 to skill check ***Beri's post coming***
Beriothian -- AC:17/11/22 HP: 152/152 CMD = 19 Tuesday April 19th, 2016 8:10:59 PM
Beri glances up at the dark clouds that have formed in the sky above. It's
Beriothian -- AC:17/11/22 HP: 152/152 CMD = 19 5d6=20 ; Tuesday April 19th, 2016 8:16:33 PM
Beri glances up at the dark clouds that have formed in the sky above. It looks like I'm ready. Let's see how he likes the barbecue I've prepared for him!
*Range long (400 ft. + 40 ft./level), Duration 1 min./level*
***Beri's relevant Form details*** Huge air elemental transformation benefits darkvision 60 feet, and the ability to create a whirlwind. immune to bleed damage, critical hits, and sneak attacks while in elemental form and gain DR 5/—. gain a +4 size bonus to your Strength, +6 size bonus to your Dexterity, and a +4 natural armor bonus. You also gain fly 120 feet (perfect). ********* active spells inspire Courage performance granting +2 to attack Inspire Competance performance granting +4 to skill check *** 0 (4)- Detect Magic, Light, Create Water, Detect Poison 1 (7)- *Elf Vision, Faerie Firex2, Entangle, cure light wounds x2, 2 (6)- *Faerie Fire, Fog Cloud, Soften Earth and Stone, Warp Wood, resist energy, Flaming Sphere, restoration lesser 3 (6)- *Glibness, Sleet Storm, quench, Greater Magic Fang, wind wall, Cure Moderate Wounds, Stone Shape 4 (6)- *Lesser Planar Ally, dispel magic, cure serious wounds, Freedom of Movement, Air Walk x2, Control Water 5 (5)- *Awaken, Animal Growth, Call Lightning Storm, Call Lightning Storm(2), Wall of Thorns, Cure Critical Wounds 6 (3)- *Legend Lore, Antilife shell, Dispel Magic(Greater) 7 (2)- *Irresistible Dance , Heal, Heal(2)
King Rhemoraz! Round 4 (DM SteveK) d20=1 ; d20=3 ; d20=20 ; d20=8 ; d20=5 ; 5d6=17 ; 5d6=20 ; d100=68 ; 6d6=15 ; 6d6=18 ; 6d6=20 ; Tuesday April 19th, 2016 9:04:09 PM
Bosk heals himself and moves away before the creature breaks from Katinka's spell, a lucky break! .....
Zane fires arrow after arrow at the colossal Rhemoraz, yet not a single one bites.
Katinka's summoned Lillends continue their sonic barrage, mere pinpricks on the colossal monster, but hoping to be like ants that can eventually overcome much larger creatures... And one manages to stun the colossal Rhemoraz!
Katinka herself concentrates on the telekinsis spell and successfully captures the monster again!
Bosk and Garrett have a sidebar conversation and, as one, dive to the ground to fight the monster in melee! Again, the Rhemoraz is unable to strike at the irritating mites. ( Bosk takes 18 fire damage and Garrett takes 20 fire damage minus any protections)
Restlin concentrate, swiftly enfeebling the monster, then perfectly striking the Rhemoraz! The monster shrugs off the worst of the spells, but that hurt it a little more. (Save for disintegrate is not 1/2 damage, but 5d6. Rays also can critical hit, so Restlin's nat 20 did 5d6 twice. :-)
Sesha's ghosts zip in, one at a time, and the fire engulfs the first ghost, so the others stay away per Sesha's orders. The ghost is still 'alive' enough to strike the beast, but it looks like it would be a crap shoot whether any would survive the attack run. ( 68% the fire succeeds in getting through the incorporality, 15 damage)
Sesha herself casts Reduce person to be ready for a rescue attempt if needed.
Beriothian's Fire Elemental continues to attack, completely at home in the super heat, but can't scratch the beast!
Beri himself begins his lightning storm... ONE! ......
The Rhemoraz hangs in the air like a pillar of Armageddon, giving the heroes a free shot at its superheated body! .......
King Rhemoraz. AC 35. CMD 28. Dam 126 (-5 Str) Stun! grappled!
Zane (JCC) AC 33 (34), CMB 16, CMD 32, HP 162/166, Character 10d6=34 ; Tuesday April 19th, 2016 10:20:36 PM "I can only do this twice, I'm hoping it works....." Zane opens his mouth and his head transforms into a dragons form......... He unleashes a a bolt of lightning as a breath weapon at the colossal beast. He targets the end of it so as to avoid his friends...
Damage 34 DC 17 reflex save for half
Bosk AC: (38/21/33) CMD: (35) hp 98/108 Spells Tuesday April 19th, 2016 10:29:40 PM
Sweat begins to gather and mat down the minotaurs thick fur as he calls out, Can any of you stun this thing? I need it paralyzed, held, bound, sleeping, or unconscious so I can do a coup de grace. That would put this thing to an end before our weapons melt. The cleric also looks to see how much rope would be needed to tie up the creature to make it helpless.
RobC - Katinka Hushfoot -- AC 25/17/19 -- CMD 21 -- HP 143/143 -- Spells d20+20=35 ; d8=5 ; d8=1 ; d8=6 ; d8=4 ; Tuesday April 19th, 2016 11:10:42 PM
The azatas continue their death-by-a-thousand-cuts approach on the Remorhaz. They will only be able to do this for one more round before they run out of sound burst spells and require new orders from Tink.
Tink for her part continues to maintain the grapple on the monster. Not only is she able to maintain the grapple, she is able to pin the Remorhaz with her magic!
"Whatever you guys are planning, now's the time to do it! You might not get another shot at this"
----------------------- Lilend Azata #1 - Free action to continue Inspire Competance performance granting +4 to skill checks to those within 30ft Lilend Azata #1 - Standard action to cast sound burst so as to affect the Remorhaz and noone else. Remorhaz takes 5pts Sonic dmg and must make a Fort Save vs DC16 or be Stunned for 1 round
Lilend Azata #2 - Free action to continue Inspire Competance performance granting +4 to skill checks to those within 30ft Lilend Azata #2 - Standard action to cast sound burst so as to affect the Remorhaz and noone else. Remorhaz takes 1pts Sonic dmg and must make a Fort Save vs DC16 or be Stunned for 1 round
Lilend Azata #3 - Free action to continue Inspire Courage performance granting +2 to attack rolls and weapon damage rolls Lilend Azata #3 - Standard action to cast sound burst so as to affect the Remorhaz and noone else. Remorhaz takes 6pts Sonic dmg and must make a Fort Save vs DC16 or be Stunned for 1 round.
Please ignore the extra d8 roll. Clicked too many times.
Tink - Standard action to use Telekinesis to grapple. CMB = 14 Caster Level + 7 Int Bonus - 1 Size = +20. Tink rolls: 35 + 2 from the Inspire Courage performance + 5 to maintain an existing grapple = 42! CMD to escape = 10 + 14 + 7 - 1 = 30. The Remorhaz now has the pinned condition!
Bosk AC: (38/21/33) CMD: (35) hp 98/108 Spells d20+18=32 ; 2d8+5=12 ; 4d6=11 ; d20+18=35 ; d8+5=9 ; 4d6=17 ; d20+17=18 ; d20+13=15 ; d6=3 ; d20+13=20 ; d6=1 ; d20+20=35 ; 2d8+5=14 ; 4d6=12 ; Tuesday April 19th, 2016 11:51:49 PM
Bosk watches as the creature gets pinned and loses its dex bonus. His eyes sparkle as he realizes this means he can do additional sneak damage due to his Avenger's training. Making a full attack he hacks away at the beast. The heat is almost unbearable, but his magic shrugs off the damage it would have caused and his high fortitude helps aid him. He grins wide as his his blade swings true, he just hopes it is enough to penetrate the creatures tough exterior.
Full Atk Rhemoraz (note that 2nd main and off hand attacks are using touch atk spells as the need a d20 to hit otherwise) ------------------------------ Main hand Atk 1 with bs sword, Hit AC 32 for 12 dmg + 11 sneak = 33dmg Off Hand Atk 1 with armor spike, Hit AC 35 for 9 dmg + 17 sneak = 26 Nat Weapon Atk miss (natural 1) (Embryon's tear also used / wasted) Main hand atk 2 with bastard sword, touch attack with Chill touch spell. Hit touch AC 15 for 3 dmg Touched creature also takes 1 point of Strength damage unless it makes a Fort 13 Main hand atk 2 with bastard sword, touch attack with Chill touch spell. Hit touch AC 20 for 1 dmg Touched creature also takes 1 point of Strength damage unless it makes a Fort 13 Extra Atk due to Haste with bastard sword Hit AC 35 for 14 + 12 sneak = 26 dmg
Restlin (Carl) -- AC +16/+13/+11 CMD: +15 HP: 116/116 (Spells) Luck Points: 9/14 d20+17=20 ; d3=3 ; d8=5 ; d20+16=23 ; d20=13 ; Wednesday April 20th, 2016 10:08:55 AM
It may be pinned, but that doesn't mean Restlin's going to go punching it anytime soon. He instead begins summoning more help.
His bralani, however, sees an opening & takes it, charging straight at the beast & slamming into it! His lillend keeps up her song, sends a sound burst at the creature's head, assuming the friendlies are far enough away to not be affected.
***
Move: Hover (fly check 20) Standard: Summon Monster IV - summoning 3 lantern archons close to me
Lillend Azata - inspiring courage - +2 to attack & damage, +2 to saves vs. charm & fear, sound burst for 5 damage, fort DC 16 or stunned 1 round Bralani Azata - Charging slam - Hit AC 23 & bounces off the critter's armor
Everyone within 20' of Restlin gets +2 to saves, skill checks, and attack rolls
Garret Goodbarrel [AC:36/32/30; +4 vs AOO HP:134/134 Ki:16/16 CMD: 34 SR: 24] d20+23=42 ; d20+23=24 ; 2d8+3=12 ; 2d8+3=14 ; d20+23=41 ; d20+18=36 ; d20+18=26 ; d20+13=32 ; d20+23=30 ; d20+23=32 ; 2d8+3=9 ; 2d8+3=6 ; 2d8(5+6)+3=14 2d8(3+8)+3=14 Wednesday April 20th, 2016 10:37:01 AM
When the monster stops and Bosk starts to dive, Garret waits until the last moment and then lets go. His monk training ensures he won’t take any damage as he falls the remaining distance and he starts spinning before he even reaches the creature, tiny fists and feet looking for purchase. His first hit lands almost exactly where he aimed it, hoping to hit a vital area of the creature. The heat distracts him as he lands on the beast, only able to strike true a couple more times. He dances on the hot scales of the monster, trying to avoid the heat.
OOC: Stoneskin: DR 10/adamantine – 80 points/80 minutes remain Resist energy, fire (blocks 30 points): 115 minutes remain Barkskin: 30 minutes remain Haste +2 to hit from Azata +4 skill checks from Azata All hits are magical, lawful, cold iron, silver for overcoming DR, if any. First hit (threat, not confirmed): 12+14 damage, Fort save, DC24, or sickened one minute Other attacks: 41, 36, 26, 32, 30, 32 – 2 hits for 9 and 6 damage. Total damage: 41
Oh yeah -- if the AC is -4, there's two more hits in there for: 14+14 = 28 more damage.
Beriothian -- AC:17/11/22 HP: 152/152 CMD = 19 d20+19=26 ; d20+19=20 ; 2d6+10=17 ; 2d6+10=17 ; Wednesday April 20th, 2016 9:08:12 PM Beri's Huge fire elemental: hp 85(+20aug )=105 (immune fire)- 10 rounds remaining The fire elemental smiles inwardly knowing he has a free shot... better make it count. It's a little awkward to hit him like this, but the elemental does it's best.
slam 1 (+4 strength) attack 1=26 damage=17
slam 2 attack 2=20 damage=17 ***active spells*** (augmented summoning)+4 enhancement bonus to Strength and Constitution inspire Courage performance granting +2 to attack Inspire Competence performance granting +4 to skill check
Beriothian -- AC:17/11/22 HP: 152/152 CMD = 19 5d6=15 ; Wednesday April 20th, 2016 9:12:29 PM
Beri smiles as his first bold hits true. With the creature held this should give the IA a few good hits.
Don't let your guard down, you never know what it will do when it breaks free. Beri double checks that he is still out of the creature's surprisingly large reach and send forth a second bolt of lightning.
damage = 15
*Range long (400 ft. + 40 ft./level), Duration 1 min./level, casting bold 2/15*
***Beri's relevant Form details*** Huge air elemental transformation benefits darkvision 60 feet, and the ability to create a whirlwind. immune to bleed damage, critical hits, and sneak attacks while in elemental form and gain DR 5/—. gain a +4 size bonus to your Strength, +6 size bonus to your Dexterity, and a +4 natural armor bonus. You also gain fly 120 feet (perfect). ********* active spells inspire Courage performance granting +2 to attack Inspire Competance performance granting +4 to skill check *** 0 (4)- Detect Magic, Light, Create Water, Detect Poison 1 (7)- *Elf Vision, Faerie Firex2, Entangle, cure light wounds x2, 2 (6)- *Faerie Fire, Fog Cloud, Soften Earth and Stone, Warp Wood, resist energy, Flaming Sphere, restoration lesser 3 (6)- *Glibness, Sleet Storm, quench, Greater Magic Fang, wind wall, Cure Moderate Wounds, Stone Shape 4 (6)- *Lesser Planar Ally, dispel magic, cure serious wounds, Freedom of Movement, Air Walk x2, Control Water 5 (5)- *Awaken, Animal Growth, Call Lightning Storm, Call Lightning Storm(2), Wall of Thorns, Cure Critical Wounds 6 (3)- *Legend Lore, Antilife shell, Dispel Magic(Greater) 7 (2)- *Irresistible Dance , Heal, Heal(2)
Garret Goodbarrel [AC:36/32/30; +4 vs AOO HP:134/134 Ki:16/16 CMD: 34 SR: 24] Thursday April 21st, 2016 7:32:31 AM
Garret glances back up from the back (or side) of beast and says, "Hey! Where'd everybody go?"
OOC: Stoneskin: DR 10/adamantine – 80 points/80 minutes remain Resist energy, fire (blocks 30 points): 115 minutes remain Barkskin: 30 minutes remain Haste +2 to hit from Azata +4 skill checks from Azata All hits are magical, lawful, cold iron, silver for overcoming DR, if any.
Zane (JCC) AC 33 (34), CMB 16, CMD 32, HP 162/166, Character Thursday April 21st, 2016 12:21:24 PM
Zane waits to see if the beast is still semi under control before he decides on his next action.....
Beriothian -- AC:17/11/22 HP: 152/152 CMD = 19 Thursday April 21st, 2016 5:28:44 PM
As the lightning prepares it's next surge Beri glances down at his fire elemental, fighting bravely below him. He tries to cheer his friend on but realizes he can't speak in this form and instead just makes a roaring cheer of support.
Restlin (Carl) -- AC +16/+13/+11 CMD: +15 HP: 116/116 (Spells) Luck Points: 9/14 Thursday April 21st, 2016 6:28:17 PM
Restlin wonders what's taking these archons so long to answer his summons. Are they afraid of this remorhaz? Couldn't blame them for that...
King Rhemoraz! Round 5 (DM SteveK) d20=1 ; d20=1 ; d20=13 ; d20=20 ; d20=3 ; d20=18 ; d20=18 ; 6d6=26 ; 6d6=23 ; Thursday April 21st, 2016 7:43:57 PM
Zane transforms, letting out his inner dragon, and let's fly a bolt of lightning!
Bosk calls for the mages to get the monster paralyzed to coup de grace the monster, yet the Minotaur knows even that would not be an instant solution.
Katinka's Lillends continue their sonic assault and succeed I stunning the monster a second time!
Katinka herself adjusts her magic on the colossal monster and succeeds in pinning the stunned beast!
Bosk braves the heat of the Rhemoraz and cleverly attacks to wound or only to touch for his magical attacks. Every little bit helps, and though the beast shrugs off the strength draining aspect, it is still a little bit more. The monsters heat flares and Bosk takes 26 damage. (reduced for resistance, no saves)
Restlin has a couple of atzatas helping too, and a small sonic burst cracks around its head. The whirlwind fails to find a purchase, and the wizard begins to summon more help.
Garrett uses Bosk's dive to go into a dive of his own and pops up like a rubber ball. Dancing on red hot scales, he pummels the beast, bruising even the colossal monster. It's heat fights back, burning for 23 damage (reduced for resistance, no saves)
Beri's fire elemental stoically attacks the monster, making itself at least another target.
Beri himself brings another bolt down from the storm clouds conjured above.
..... And again, the Rhemoraz is stunned at cannot fight these mice crawling all about! ..... King Rhemoraz. AC 35. CMD 28. Dam 284 (-5 Str) Stun! Pinned!
Sesha's eye twitches in frustration. She can't really get an angle on the monster. Then again, she doesn't need to. She sends two of the ghosts to aid Garret. He's taken a bit of a burn.
Ghosts: "Cure Light Wounds." (Heal Garret for 21.)
The last two she wants with her. She dips low on her broom, watching the worm for weakness.
"What are you waiting for Sesha?", asks Faith.
"An opening, little one. No need to push my resources when the others are making a spectacular show of humiliating this beast. Further, this thing has a life power that isn't worth wasting."
Sesha's voice calls out over the battle..
"Don't kill it. When it's incapacitated, I need it."
Bosk AC: (38/21/33) CMD: (35) hp 98/108 Spells Thursday April 21st, 2016 8:26:34 PM
Bosk puzzles over what Sesha said. What are you going to do? As he waits to make sure she is not planning anything that would anger Gargul so quickly after their last talk with him, he uses his deathwatch ability (free action, permanent ability) to check the creature's health. Assuming Sesha's plan is agreeable he will let the group know when the creature is in fragile condition so the group can stop attacking.
DeathwatchYou instantly know whether each creature within the area is dead, fragile (alive and wounded, with 3 or fewer hit points left), fighting off death (alive with 4 or more hit points), healthy, undead, or neither alive nor dead (such as a construct).
Sesha [AC 39 /21 To/29 Fl] | HP 188/93 | CMD 22] Thursday April 21st, 2016 8:53:28 PM
Sesha calls back.
"Nothing any different than I do with the livestock in Hook City, or countless other enemies we have incapacitated. Think of it's body as a big giant Spirit Brew, bristling with vitality."
She watches the worm dispassionately.
"If you kill it, you've shattered the glass with the good stuff inside. At least let me put it to good use."
Zane (JCC) AC 33 (34), CMB 16, CMD 32, HP 162/166, Character d20+23=35 ; 3d8+7=21 ; Thursday April 21st, 2016 8:56:25 PM
Zane, seeing that the beast is still pinned, turns himself into a missile and charges at max fly speed at the beast..... "I'll lightning it again on my way back away so it charge again. I need every advantage I can get so I can hit it."
The horned cleric just nods at Sesha's comment. Perhaps it is because he considers it a dumb animal, or perhaps it is the fog of battle dulling his senses, but he makes no attempt to stop the witch. I will let everyone know when to stop attacking, but it possible one well placed hit will push this thing over the edge.
The blond taur then continues his assault on the Remorhaz. The heat is intense, but once again his protection keeps him safe and a bead of sweat drips down his head as he realizes how quickly his protection from energy spell is draining and how soon he will have to rely on this energy resistance. Calling up to the others he asks, Will your magic keep this thing pinned another round? Yet even as he asks he knows that he will have to stay and fight this beast to the bitter end. His only hope of saving 5 mile is to end this fight quickly. Retreat is not an option and with magic dwindling he cannot wait and hope it gets pinned again. Once again bravery and suicide appear just a hair's width apart, and he hopes he is found to be in the former category as he continues his onslaught against the house sized monstrosity.
(I have protection from energy and resistance to energy in place. Please let me know the previous damage before resistance as the entire amount is deducted from PFE)
Full Atk Rhemoraz unless it drops to fragile condition. Then he will stop and inform the others. ------------------------------ Main hand Atk 1 with bs sword, Hit AC 23 - miss Off Hand Atk 1 with armor spike, Hit AC 28 for 13 dmg + 12 sneak = 25 Nat Weapon Atk with Embryon's Tear Hit AC 30 for 12 dmg + 15 sneak =27 +1 ligntning = 28dmg Main hand atk 2 with bastard sword, touch attack with Chill touch spell. Hit touch AC 33 (Nat 20) for 3 dmg Touched creature also takes 1 point of Strength damage unless it makes a Fort 13 Main hand atk 2 with bastard sword, touch attack with Chill touch spell. Hit touch AC 16 for 1 dmg Touched creature also takes 1 point of Strength damage unless it makes a Fort 13 Extra Atk due to Haste with bastard sword Hit AC 28 for 13 + 13 sneak = 26 dmg
RobC - Katinka Hushfoot -- AC 25/17/19 -- CMD 21 -- HP 143/143 -- Spells d20+20=30 ; d8=8 ; d8=2 ; d8=4 ; Thursday April 21st, 2016 11:57:00 PM
The azatas each unleash their final sound burst. Tink will shortly need to come up with some new instructions for them.
Tink however keeps up her superb grip on the Remorhaz, keeping it pinned a little while longer. "Somehow it just doesn't sound as impressive as when Garret does it."
"It's pinned! I don't think I can hold it for much longer though! And the azatas are all out of sound burst spells!"
----------------------- Lilend Azata #1 - Free action to continue Inspire Competance performance granting +4 to skill checks to those within 30ft Lilend Azata #1 - Standard action to cast sound burst so as to affect the Remorhaz and noone else. Remorhaz takes 8pts Sonic dmg and must make a Fort Save vs DC16 or be Stunned for 1 round
Lilend Azata #2 - Free action to continue Inspire Competance performance granting +4 to skill checks to those within 30ft Lilend Azata #2 - Standard action to cast sound burst so as to affect the Remorhaz and noone else. Remorhaz takes 2pts Sonic dmg and must make a Fort Save vs DC16 or be Stunned for 1 round
Lilend Azata #3 - Free action to continue Inspire Courage performance granting +2 to attack rolls and weapon damage rolls Lilend Azata #3 - Standard action to cast sound burst so as to affect the Remorhaz and noone else. Remorhaz takes 4pts Sonic dmg and must make a Fort Save vs DC16 or be Stunned for 1 round.
Tink - Standard action to use Telekinesis to grapple. CMB = 14 Caster Level + 7 Int Bonus - 1 Size = +20. Tink rolls: 30 + 2 from the Inspire Courage performance + 5 to maintain an existing grapple = 37! CMD to escape = 10 + 14 + 7 - 1 = 30. The Remorhaz keeps the pinned condition!
Restlin (Carl) -- AC +16/+13/+11 CMD: +15 HP: 116/116 (Spells) Luck Points: 10/14 d20+17=21 ; d8=5 ; 7d10+10=58 ; d6+3=5 ; d20+3=10 ; d20+3=9 ; d6=5 ; d6=2 ; d20+3=9 ; d20+3=19 ; d6=3 ; d6=5 ; d20+3=6 ; d20+3=6 ; d6=1 ; d6=1 ; d20=9 ; Friday April 22nd, 2016 10:08:43 AM
Finally, Restlin's archons show up. Calling out again in celestial, he asks for their assistance in combating this beast. They zip around the remorhaz, zapping it with their light beam attacks. He decides to bring one more into the fight. Every little bit helps!
Lillend Azata - inspiring courage - +2 to attack & damage, +2 to saves vs. charm & fear, sound burst for 5 damage, fort DC 16 or stunned 1 round Bralani Azata - Fly 100' straight up (perfect flying) & lightning bolt for 58 damage (pinned, so no reflex save (DC 16 if I'm wrong about that)) Lantern Archon1 - Hit touch AC 10 for 5 damage & touch AC 9 for 2 damage Lantern Archon2 - Hit touch AC 9 for 3 damage & touch AC 19 for 5 damage Lantern Archon3 - Hit touch AC 6 for 1 damage & touch AC 6 for 1 damage (this guy's not too impressive, is he?)
Everyone within 20' of Restlin gets +2 to saves, skill checks, and attack rolls
Garret Goodbarrel [AC:36/32/30; +4 vs AOO HP:134/134 Ki:14/16 CMD: 34 SR: 24] d20+31=49 ; d20+23=40 ; d20+23=35 ; d20+18=30 ; d20+18=21 ; d20+13=18 ; d20+23=25 ; d20+23=31 ; 2d8+3=15 ; 2d8=15 ; 2d8+3=10 ; 2d8+3=15 ; Friday April 22nd, 2016 10:44:45 AM
Garret pauses a moment and looks at his feet. He is standing on the massively hot creature. He can feel the heat. But the heat does not bother him. He waves to his flying allies and when the ghost comes near he says, “Believe it or not, this thing isn’t hurting me… yet.”
Then he jumps up and starts stomping down on the creature, trying to beat it into submission. He hears Sesha calling out and he switches to non-lethal damage, trying to subdue the creature for whatever purpose Sesha might have in mind.
OOC: Stoneskin: DR 10/adamantine – 80 points/80 minutes remain Resist energy, fire (blocks 30 points): 115 minutes remain Barkskin: 30 minutes remain Haste +2 to hit from Azata +4 skill checks from Azata All hits are magical, lawful, cold iron, silver for overcoming DR, if any. 3 hits for 55 subdual damage.
Beriothian -- AC:17/11/22 HP: 152/152 CMD = 19 Friday April 22nd, 2016 6:49:41 PM Beri's Huge fire elemental: hp 85(+20aug )=105 (immune fire)- 10 rounds remaining Things quiet down a little... looking around, the elemental realizes they are trying not to use lethal damage and decides that if they are trying to let it live that he will instead assitt with the pin (aid another on the pin)
***active spells*** (augmented summoning)+4 enhancement bonus to Strength and Constitution inspire Courage performance granting +2 to attack Inspire Competence performance granting +4 to skill check ***Beri's post coming***
Beriothian -- AC:17/11/22 HP: 152/152 CMD = 19 5d6=21 ; Friday April 22nd, 2016 6:58:10 PM Yell out if it's too fragile for me to cast another lighting bolt... otherwise I'll light it up again. Beri will hold back should anyone on his party request it. damage = 21
RobC - Katinka Hushfoot -- AC 25/17/19 -- CMD 21 -- HP 143/143 -- Spells Saturday April 23rd, 2016 4:48:48 AM
Tink is a little confused by the talk of this dying and fragile status. That's for the others to worry about. Right now it is taking all her focus to keep this worm grappled and pinned.
Zane (JCC) AC 33 (34), CMB 16, CMD 32, HP 162/166, Character Saturday April 23rd, 2016 8:05:12 PM "I'm more worried about making sure it dies, not how it dies. If Sesha gets to use her spell or ability or whatever it is, it'll be great, but I'll be happy as long as it dies one way or the other. So just hurt it till it stops moving. Because I'm not really hitting it at all."
King Rhemoraz! Round 5 (DM SteveK) Sunday April 24th, 2016 11:04:14 AM
OOC: Friends, my sincere apologies. I have had so many things RL happening that I didn't realize I only posted as DM three times this week!
Sesha [AC 39 /21 To/29 Fl] | HP 188/93 | CMD 22] Sunday April 24th, 2016 2:03:33 PM
(It's okay! I understand getting busy."
King Rhemoraz! Dead with Questions (DM SteveK) 6d6=19 ; 6d6=23 ; d20=3 ; d20=3 ; d20=9 ; d20=15 ; d20=12 ; d20=1 ; Sunday April 24th, 2016 5:04:00 PM
Sesha calls for only making the monster unconscious so she can drain it's remaining life for her spells.
Bosk wonders if Gargul would object to intentionally Almost Killing a monster in order to kill it the rest of the way and use the life energy for personal gain. The teachings Bosk knowledge about doesn't go into specifics, but he is wale still certain that it would walk the knofe's edge of moral actions that Gargul would or would not approve. Still, the most important thing is to kill it first. Bosk looks at the beast on how close it is to dying... And see that the Rhemoraz is "fighting off death". Bosk knows this doesn't tell him much (OOC: he knows the monster has 4 or more hit points but is not 100% ).
The Minotaur attacks and finds it easy to touch the creature, but his touch spells only do the minimum damage. The burning Rhemoraz Flames against Bosk's fire resistance for 19 fire damage)
Zane dives in and succeeds in a string strike! The burning monster flames the white Minotaur for 23 damage.
Katinka's Azatas use their last sonic spells, wounding just a little more.
Katinka keeps the monster pinned!
Restlin's summoned creatures attack, keeping at least 30 feet away to avoid the damaging heat! Even the sloppiest Archon hits the creature, it seems like Touch attacks are the real weakness of the beast, and it is stunned yet again! (OOC: oh, come on; not another natural 1!)
Restlin begins to summon another lantern archon!
Garrett becomes a sundial machine, slapping at vital places along the beasts sinuous carapace!
Beri has his fire elemental hold off, but throws another lightning bolt.
....... And again, the Rhemoraz is stunned at cannot fight these mice crawling all about!
The heroes are canny at assessing the health of their opponents, and this Rhemoraz isn't even half dead. So it may come as a great surprise when the Rhemoraz stiffens then fire pours from its mouth and eyes! It writhes with a colossal shriek. REEEEE-UNK!!! And the collapses half in, half out of the hole.
The heroes are victorious! In the aftermath silence, the heroes can hear the faint cheering of the refuges and residents of Five Mile who are only a half mile away! The whole battle was seen by everyone, the tiny heroes dancing around the colossal monster!
But... There are questions. Where did it come from? Why did it die when it wasn't even halfway hurt? And are there any more where this came from?
The only place for answers is a colossal gem-encrusted corpse... ..... King Rhemoraz. AC 35. CMD 28. Dam 354 Sub 55 (-5 Str) Stun! Pinned. DEAD ......
Every hero gets 19,000xp!
Hero Point to Katinka! Whose Grappling and multiple stuns from her creatures turned a real challenge into a boring week of beating on a piece of meat. :-)
Bosk AC: (38/21/33) CMD: (35) hp 98/108 Spells Sunday April 24th, 2016 11:25:33 PM
Bosk stares incredulously as the Rhemoraz stiffens then fire pours from its mouth and eyes, collapsing. Something is wrong, it should not have died yet. It never entered a fragile state, and something that large should have been fragile for a few blows. NOBODY TOUCH THE RHEMORAZ OR ITS CARAPACE UNTIL WE CHECK FOR MAGIC AND CURSES! I do not want one of us to risk becoming controlled or dying when only partly injured. The cleric waits for the magical scans to begin and he himself will use detect magic to scan the creature and the area. It might also be a good idea to send a summoned creature down its hole to see if there is anything of interest down there.
Once the scene's safe the cleric will collect some of the Rhemoraz as a trophy and for spell components. Do you guys think we can stuff this and keep it on the lawn? What about dipping it in bronze?
RobC - Katinka Hushfoot -- AC 25/17/19 -- CMD 21 -- HP 143/143 -- Spells d20+32=33 ; d20+12=13 ; d20+26=28 ; Sunday April 24th, 2016 11:32:55 PM "Dipping it in bronze? I was picturing hanging it from a massive hook and going fishing" Tink jests.
She does feel a moment of pride. This might just be the first battle where she was able to contribute something personally. Not just summon help and aid, but actually do something - anything - to help the others.
Tink hovers close to the rhemoraz and looks over its corspe
-------------------------- Perception: 33 Appraise on the gems: 13 Spellcraft to ID any auras: 28
Two Nat 1s and a 2. Glad the battle ended when it did!
Garret Goodbarrel [AC:36/32/30; +4 vs AOO HP:134/134 Ki:14/16 CMD: 34 SR: 24] Monday April 25th, 2016 7:53:36 AM
Garret keeps his balance as the massive creature stiffens and cries out. He flexes his knees and moves to stay standing as it falls to the ground. He smiles when it stops moving and remains standing on the corpse. When Bosk cries out not to touch the massive beast, Garret just stares at him, then says, “Does standing on the dead body count as touching it?” He looks down and eyeballs a large gem stuck to the body near where Garret is standing…
Restlin (Carl) -- AC +16/+13/+11 CMD: +15 HP: 116/116 (Spells) Luck Points: 10/14 Monday April 25th, 2016 10:56:28 AM
Restlin takes no joy in killing this creature. It was majestic and beautiful. If it weren't terrorizing his friends in Five Mile, he would have insisted on leaving it alone.
He floats down and takes a moment to thank all the creatures he summoned for their help before dismissing them so they can get back to their respective existences.
He also takes a moment to ponder the fact that he considered both of the last combats he was in to be hopeless. He should stop underestimating himself and his friends.
"I can summon an earth elemental to go explore that tunnel, or I can turn myself into one." He steals a glance towards Sesha. "...but I should probably avoid scouting. It seems bad for my health." He'll let Bosk and Sesha handle the corpse. He didn't enjoy interacting with the dead, while they were practically built for it. Instead, he summons a small earth elemental (summon monster II - 18 rounds). In terran, he asks it to explore the tunnel left by this creature. Specifically, how far does it go and how dangerous is it for people?
Sesha [AC 39 /21 To/29 Fl] | HP 188/93 | CMD 22] Monday April 25th, 2016 12:39:36 PM
Sesha gathers her ghosts.
"Follow the elemental the Mage-Priest summoned. If the tunnel continues on further than it can travel, you carry on and then report back. Keep track of your time left here and don't dally."
Immortal Summons: 129? minutes remaining.
She looks somewhat agitated by the loss of the worms vitality.
"The fact it died so quickly is kind of frustrating. I felt for the beast, but it's energy would have been appreciated."
Beriothian -- AC:17/11/22 HP: 152/152 CMD = 19 Monday April 25th, 2016 6:08:27 PM Once we pry off the gems maybe we should hold a BBQ. I'm sure if we provide the meat that music and ale will show up on it's own... and it never hurts to have everyone in two towns talking about your great deeds, especially merchant towns. Beri starts to cast Detect Magic to check for any possible clues to what happened, and to make sure it truely is safe.
Zane (JCC) AC 33 (34), CMB 16, CMD 32, HP 162/166, Character Monday April 25th, 2016 7:40:24 PM "I've eaten things I'd prefer to forget all about, but I ain't eating this thing." Zane flies back away from the corpse a bit then casts detect magic....
Bosk AC: (38/21/33) CMD: (35) hp 98/108 Spells Monday April 25th, 2016 7:54:12 PM
Bosk shakes his head. You have your meats confused. This is like a turtle or a lobster. You either have a giant boil and dip it in butter, make a jambalaya stew, or paella baked over rice.
Gems and Gems (DM SteveK) Monday April 25th, 2016 9:36:56 PM
Summoned creatures are sent down the hole on a scouting mission but soon return. The Rhemoraz was burrowing and collapsing the tunnel it creates for itself behind him. There does not appear to be any clues I. that direction.
Bosk calls for a magical review of the carcass, and discovers that three of the gems are magical.
The Gems encrusted along the rhemoraz body include: opal and onyx, jade and jasper, garnets, emeralds and topaz worth 40,000gp
There are two Elemental Gems: Fire 2,250gp each (4,500gp)
One Glass gem with a Golden Key inside and emanating moderate divination magic.
Bosk AC: (38/21/33) CMD: (35) hp 98/108 Spells d20+19=25 ; d20+19=21 ; d20+19=38 ; Monday April 25th, 2016 10:49:58 PM
Bosk does his best to determine what the magical gems are, but now that the battle is over the adrenaline coursing through his body begins to fade leaving him feeling drained and foggy headed.
Spellcraft rolls to identify auras and if anything is cursed = 25, 19, 38
RobC - Katinka Hushfoot -- AC 25/17/19 -- CMD 21 -- HP 143/143 -- Spells Tuesday April 26th, 2016 3:33:57 AM "I'm going to go out on a limb here and say that that key is probably important"
Tink feels the need (but resists) to smack herself in the face. She had a telekinesis spell active that would have allowed her to pick at the gems on the rhemoraz, however she ceased concentrating and maintaining the spell when the great worm died. Mage Hand will have to do.
Tink will use the Mage Hand cantrip to gather all the mundane gems she can into one pile, the elemental gems into a second pile, and finally the the glass gem with the key in it in a third pile.
She will await everyone's magical analysis of the gems before she attempts her next step - using mage hand to try and break open the glass gem by smashing it repeatedly into the ground.
Garret Goodbarrel [AC:36/32/30; +4 vs AOO HP:134/134 Ki:14/16 CMD: 34 SR: 24] Tuesday April 26th, 2016 8:32:02 AM
Garret watches the others flying around and directing various summoned creatures. He walks around on the back of the rapidly cooling creature, trying not to step on any soft spots. He heads towards the end, wanting to get off the beast before something else started to happen. He wasn’t quite as concerned about why the creature died, after all they were the Iron Adventurers.
When the discussions turn to eating while examinations are held, Garret looks at the creature and turns his head sideways. “I think I’m going to have to pass on that one. Too much like a worm for me, and worms are for the birds.” As the gems are gathered, he looks them over closely and wonders about the golden key. He avoid touching the gems and standing back as the other try to identify or break them.
Restlin (Carl) -- AC +16/+13/+11 CMD: +15 HP: 116/116 (Spells) Luck Points: 10/14 d20+32=43 ; Tuesday April 26th, 2016 1:13:19 PM
Wait. A key is embedded in a gem in what is easily an unnatural remorhaz? Someone was messing around with the Iron Adventurers. That, or they were messing with Five-Mile. Either way they were messing around.
Keys don't usually emanate magic, let alone divination magic. He'll cast a quick identify spell before trying to ascertain its purpose. Hopefully before Tink smashes the thing open.
Spellcraft: 43
Zane (JCC) AC 33 (34), CMB 16, CMD 32, HP 162/166, Character Tuesday April 26th, 2016 2:59:04 PM "A key in a gem.... maybe the beast was just a delivery agent that we were sure not to miss. Meaning that the key in a trap of some sort. You did say divine magic, right? maybe they are scrying on the key and now see us near by it."
Beriothian -- AC:17/11/22 HP: 152/152 CMD = 19 Tuesday April 26th, 2016 4:46:03 PM
Beri listens to the scouting report. Hmm, well I can go down and examine the collapsed tunnel that the creature left behind, though I doubt that will tell us anything. We know where the creature was coming from already. Does anybody know if there is anything further on if we continue in the direction it was heading?
Gems and Gems 2 (DM SteveK) Tuesday April 26th, 2016 7:13:59 PM
Beri considers where the Rhemoraz came from. It is less a collapsed tunnel and more just a wall of dirt and stone. There is no 'tunnel' to excavate. This is literally a dead end.
Zane keys in on the divination magic and wonders if someone may be watching them right now!
Restlin considers the key and wonders if the colossal Rhemoraz was just a deliver system to ensure the Key would get to the Iron Adventurers. Certainly, there would be few other groups who could have even slowed the beast down let alone to defeat such a creature.
All the heroes are very careful and do not touch any of the gems as they are gathered.
The first pile is 423 Gems and include opal and onyx, jade and jasper, garnets, emeralds and topaz. None of them have any magic about them and seem to be worth 40,000gp
The second 'pile' consists of two fire opals. Restlin and Katinka can identify them as Elemental Gems: Fire. They are worth 2,250gp each (4,500gp total)
The third 'pile' consists of one Glass gem with a Golden Key inside. Bosk, Restlin, and Katinka check again and it still emanates a moderate divination magic. None of the heroes can detect any curse on any of the gems.
....... Identify the properties of a magic item using detect magic 15 + item's caster level
Identifying Cursed Items: Cursed items are identified like any other magic item with one exception: unless the check made to identify the item exceeds the DC by 10 or more, the curse is not detected. If the check is not made by 10 or more, but still succeeds, all that is revealed is the magic item's original intent. If the item is known to be cursed, the nature of the curse can be determined using the standard DC to identify the item
RobC - Katinka Hushfoot -- AC 25/17/19 -- CMD 21 -- HP 143/143 -- Spells Tuesday April 26th, 2016 9:38:21 PM "That gem is an interesting puzzle" Tink declares "It has a divination aura to it, so someone could be attempting to scry on us or something. Since I have both Detect Scrying and Misdirection already cast on me I may have some protection against it"
"Er, Restlin, are you able to use your Touch of Luck on me? Just in case"
Tink will first try tapping the gem with her dagger, before reaching out to poke the gem with just her pinky.
Bosk AC: (38/21/33) CMD: (35) hp 98/108 Spells Tuesday April 26th, 2016 11:42:20 PM
Bosk watches as Tink approaches the key. I have studied spellcraft for may years and can identify most things, but curses are a little beyond me. I would say I am 75% sure there is not a curse, but my skill is not high enough to make any sort of guarantee. Perhaps it would be best if Tink lay down her spell component pouch and weapons before picking it up...just in case. If we are worried about scrying, I have just the thing. It is a lead pocket liner I received (non magical gift) that I usually keep my poison in...someone snooping might jump to conclusions if we to detect them he quickly adds to clarify.
Once you pick it up, set it down again right away. Many cursed items will not let you drop them. It will let us know if we need to look after you.
Sesha [AC 39 /21 To/29 Fl] | HP 188/93 | CMD 22] Wednesday April 27th, 2016 1:30:47 AM
Sesha watches, curious. It was nice to watch real magicians work sometimes. Her knowledge of magic in general was practical. These two had it down to a science.
"Careful Tink."
With that sound bit of advice, Sesha is ready in case the key blows up, or does something else nefarious.
Restlin (Carl) -- AC +16/+13/+11 CMD: +15 HP: 116/116 (Spells) Luck Points: 10/14 Wednesday April 27th, 2016 9:40:36 AM
Without taking his eyes off the key, Restlin reaches over and touches the tip of Tink's nose. He makes a "boop" sound when he does.
***
Bit o' luck to tink - roll any d20 twice & pick whichever result you like. You also get a +2 just for being near me.
Garret Goodbarrel [AC:36/32/30; +4 vs AOO HP:134/134 Ki:14/16 CMD: 34 SR: 24] d20+23=37 ; Wednesday April 27th, 2016 10:21:33 AM
Garret slowly backs away while the others check out the key gem. Then he thinks, "I wonder if there's more of these things?" He puts his ear to the ground to see if he hears anything else massive coming towards them (Perception: 37).
Zane (JCC) AC 33 (34), CMB 16, CMD 32, HP 162/166, Character Wednesday April 27th, 2016 12:19:44 PM "I may use magic, but this is what I would call higher magic, and it's way beyond my knowledge. I'll let you two discuss it, just say something if you need me for some reason."
Beriothian -- AC:17/11/22 HP: 152/152 CMD = 19 Wednesday April 27th, 2016 4:46:38 PM One more thing... should we update the dragon consortium before messing with this too much? We need to make sure things are safe and secure ASAP, but beyond that we may want to seek their guidance. They seem to already know a bit about what's going on around here, they may know exactly what we are dealing with already. In any case, they are probably the most likely lead for identifying what the key is for.
An Unexpected Reunion (DM SteveK) Wednesday April 27th, 2016 8:20:17 PM
Beri reminds the team about the Dragon Consirtium.
Zane and Sesha appreciate true magical experts at work.
Garrett checks to see if their may be another huge monster underground, but he doesn't hear anything.
Bosk suggests practical cautions for a potential cursed item. Another adventure group may think this would be excessive, but another group wouldn't have had the plethora of experience with cursed items!
Restlin and Katinka make preparations. The halfling girl doesn't notice any a crying, and so she takes the plunge and picks up the crystal gem...
Upon her touch, the crystal glows and a soft 'ping' is heard. The gem crumbles and the Golden Key falls into Katinka's hand. And it projects an image that stands beside Katinka. A well-dressed black elf woman who looks out at the world with crafty eyes... It is Mhalice!
“Greetings Iron Adventurers,” taunts the well-known venomous voice and image. “Well done, but too late. Even if you have defeated my minion, I have found fabled Fae Skiemir, and soon all its treasures and secrets will be mine! Just try and stop me!”
And the image fades...
Restlin (Carl) -- AC +16/+13/+11 CMD: +15 HP: 116/116 (Spells) Luck Points: 10/14 d20+23=42 ; Wednesday April 27th, 2016 9:03:03 PM
Restlin leaps up into the air, hands raised above his head.
"CALLED IT!" he shouts. "I mean, I called it in my head, but it counts." He looks sideways at Sesha, and takes a step away from her. He's pretty sure she's going to explode. He's positive he'll never hear the end of it.
He simmers down, and tries to think if he's ever heard of this "Fae Skiemir" place.
Knowledge, History: 42
RobC - Katinka Hushfoot -- AC 25/17/19 -- CMD 21 -- HP 143/143 -- Spells d20+32=48 ; d20+32=49 ; d20+12=13 ; d20+12=29 ; d20+12=22 ; d20+12=13 ; Wednesday April 27th, 2016 9:27:52 PM
Tink has never seen or met Mhalice before, however she has heard Sesha describe her in quite some detail. She knows well enough that this is her.
Tink looks at the key in detail. Does it look like a normal key? Is it quite plain, or complex? Is there a number or some letters on it that might indicate what it is for? Does the key itself have any magical aura?
------------------------- Restlin's Touch of Luck means Tink can roll twice and take the better result for each d20 she rolls...
Perception: 49 Knowl History: 29 Knowl Planes: 22
Zane (JCC) AC 33 (34), CMB 16, CMD 32, HP 162/166, Character d20=17 ; Wednesday April 27th, 2016 9:43:56 PM
Zane wracks his memories about ancient and legendary places, those he learned at the monastery and those he has heard about in the search for his parents. He adds those thoughts to Restlin's in the thought that he might make something of it. Aid Another with Know History, unskilled 17=a 10, and a 10 = +2 to Restlin's skill roll.
Sesha [AC 39 /21 To/29 Fl] | HP 188/93 | CMD 22] Wednesday April 27th, 2016 10:59:35 PM
Sesha stares at the image, her expression blank. She calmly exhales, and reaches for Pot-pot, hands trembling.
"Expand."
Pot-pot obeys, and Sesha climbs into her spirit familiars innards.
"Flip."
Pot-pot obeys again, leaving Sesha trapped underneath the massing iron cauldron.
What exactly transpires in that dark place is unknown. Only a dim sound escapes. It could be the hum of magic, or a young drow shouting at the top of her lungs. A few minutes later, Pot-pot is flipped back over.
"Reduce."
She re-hooks Pot-pot on her belt clip, then gathers her broom and items.
"Rarely will I impose my will on anyone, I did far too much of that with the Ga'alin barbarians. But she is a Dark Elf problem, among other things, and I'll see her stand trial among our kin. Even if I have to kill her, and resurrect her, twenty times between here and the Great Houses."
She thinks a moment, then pulls some neatly arranged scrolls, complete with sketches and notes of everything she knows about Mhalice.
"She's a sorceress. She also has some uncanny abilities that come from training in a Sargrass discipline called Spellweaving. We saw her dispel up to three spells in six seconds the first time we met her. She prefers acidic attacks, and most of her spells substitute the stuff in place of more typical elements like fire and lightning."
She flips another page.
"We know she has the following spells. Fireball, or some acidic variation of it. Scorching Ray, or some acidic variation of it. Possibly Illusory Terrain. We mucked through an illusion when encountering her allies. Last time, she made the illusion of a beautiful meadow to cover up a quagmire. She knows Magic Missile. Either her or Valon could summon, and we fought a dinosaur last time.. and a wooly rhinocerous. A big one with a club tail."
She flips another page.
"Spectral Hand. Ghoul Touch. Invisibility.Globe of Invulnerability."
Then another.
"She quicken her spells, doing so with fireballs and scorching rays."
She sighs and looks at her notes.
"That's about all I got. Other than sending her the occasional Nightmares. Which for sure, I'm doing tonight."
"
Bosk AC: (38/21/33) CMD: (35) hp 98/108 Spells Thursday April 28th, 2016 12:45:23 AM
Bosk is still thinking about bronzing the monster before him when Sesha gives her speech. That is amazingly detailed. I am truly impressed! What does it mean? He pauses just a moment before clarifying. I know divine casters have to pray for our spells, but is there a limit to what other spells she might know? What schools they will likely be from or how many additional spells she might have? As for preparations, resist and protection from energy scrolls ad potions are a must. Do you recall if she was chaotic or evil? That is another boon we could add to our favor. Lastly, I think we all learned that we need more ranged attacks. Spears, bows, magic...something so we can attack from a distance.
Sesha [AC 39 /21 To/29 Fl] | HP 188/93 | CMD 22] Thursday April 28th, 2016 2:10:30 AM
Sesha shakes her head.
"She's a sorceress, an arcane caster. Spellweaving is something different. The monks explained it as being able to branch out away from the rest of her ilk, but to learn to see magic as a giant thread. She's going to have less spell power than a pure caster, but a lot of versatility."
Sesha shrugs.
"She's also got more old Drow power in her than I have. She can levitate at will. Her Darkness globes are at will. So is her Faerie Fire. She also outright resists magic."
Garret Goodbarrel [AC:36/32/30; +4 vs AOO HP:134/134 Ki:14/16 CMD: 34 SR: 24] Thursday April 28th, 2016 7:53:07 AM
Garret blurts out, "What's a Fae Skiemir and why should we care that she has one?"
Fae Skiemir (DM SteveK) Thursday April 28th, 2016 7:56:08 PM
It is no surprise to most that Sesha has a very detailed list of what Mhalice was capable the last time they fought; Sesha has had a serious Jones against that woman!
Despite several of the heroes wracking their brains over Fae Skiemir, it is Restlin who has the most information. Fae Skiemir is the name of the ancient Elf City; the very first one! But it was destroyed ages ago...
A thought comes... The people who may best know are the Dragon Consortium...
Beriothian -- AC:17/11/22 HP: 152/152 CMD = 19 Thursday April 28th, 2016 8:40:12 PM Well, Hopefully the DC has more information on her and her movements. Even if they don't, I think the Dragon Consortium needs to be informed ASAP. It would also be prudent from here on to prepare spells to defend against this spell weaver. It may also be worth seeing if there is anything in the catacombs worth picking up to protect against acid... though none come to mind at the moment.
Restlin (Carl) -- AC +16/+13/+11 CMD: +15 HP: 116/116 (Spells) Luck Points: 10/14 Thursday April 28th, 2016 9:31:40 PM
"I'm not sure which is crazier: not preparing for what we know she can throw at us, or expecting her to use the same spells against us. We'll need to be flexible when we face her.
"Anyway, we need to get back in touch with the Dragon Consortium. Anyone remember if they told us HOW we go about doing that?"
He looks around a bit, pulls out a small trading card encased in glass. Holding it aloft, he shouts out, "VALDOR DRAGONSTONE! I CHOOSE YOU!"
He looks around to see if that worked.
Zane (JCC) AC 33 (34), CMB 16, CMD 32, HP 162/166, Character Thursday April 28th, 2016 9:54:36 PM
Zane sniggers as Restlin tries to call the DC with a card.
Sesha [AC 39 /21 To/29 Fl] | HP 188/93 | CMD 22] Thursday April 28th, 2016 11:20:51 PM
Sesha frowns.
"Fae Skimir is where the Shadow Guardians last went before they disbanded. They failed their consortium assignment there. When I spoke with Larien, who was one of the strongest wizards I've met, she mentioned many things. History as we've learned it, between the Twilight Elves and the other races, isn't accurate.
She trembles.
"To go to such a place... my ancestors.. my Blood Kin, would be proud of me."
RobC - Katinka Hushfoot -- AC 25/17/19 -- CMD 21 -- HP 143/143 -- Spells Thursday April 28th, 2016 11:32:01 PM
Tink rolls her eyes at Restlin's antics and smiles
"They told us to send a message to the manor in Hook when we returned. I took the liberty of requesting both a young lad and the Inspector to notify the DC that we had arrived back in Hook, but had to investigate this matter first. All things being equal, they may be ready for us by the time we return to Hook"
Bosk AC: (38/21/33) CMD: (35) hp 98/108 Spells Thursday April 28th, 2016 11:50:36 PM
Bosk nods. Whatever we do, we need to make a stop at the Catacombs before facing her.
Garret Goodbarrel [AC:36/32/30; +4 vs AOO HP:134/134 Ki:14/16 CMD: 34 SR: 24] Friday April 29th, 2016 8:40:35 AM
Garret looks puzzled. "Wait, she says she's got a city and she's not afraid to use it? What is she going to do, throw it as us? You guys are right, this one is a lunatic. Maybe she's just under a permanent touch of idiocy spell..."
He turns and starts walking towards Hook City.
Beriothian -- AC:17/11/22 HP: 152/152 CMD = 19 Friday April 29th, 2016 6:46:25 PM
Beri considers Restlin's words for a minute. People tend to fall into a specific strategy for a reason, it's not just a preference but also something they get better at each time. It's more likely that they have upped their game since the last time than have altered strategies completely. He then turns to Sesha. Can you tell me more about these darkness globes and how she makes use of them?
Zane (JCC) AC 33 (34), CMB 16, CMD 32, HP 162/166, Character Friday April 29th, 2016 8:39:55 PM "It could be like that city or was it a castle?, that was stuck in the shadow lands. I heard those heroes from Black Bird Lake were somewhat stuck there and had to fight their way out just to get back to that desolate place near Black Bird Lake. I imagine having access to a city like that, she'd consider that a weapon to use against us." Zane remembers hearing this at the Giggling Ghost, he just can't remember the cities name, just that it wasn't the city they were discussing....
RobC - Katinka Hushfoot -- AC 25/17/19 -- CMD 21 -- HP 143/143 -- Spells Friday April 29th, 2016 9:49:17 PM
Something suddenly occurs to Tink...
"That Rhemoraz is unlike any I've ever seen or heard of before. What's more, it had a message specifically for us. Mhalice sent it here for us. Who wants to wager that this beast was from Fae Skiemir under her control? If others are as nasty as this, then we may have our hands full"
"We're not going to get answers here though. Let's gather all we can from the creature and head back. Let's let 5 Mile know things are safe again, and invite them to barbeque it if they want. We need to see the DC"
Tink will pocket the key and any gems she can carry before turning to head for 5 Mile.
Sesha [AC 39 /21 To/29 Fl] | HP 188/93 | CMD 22] Saturday April 30th, 2016 12:32:54 AM
Sesha holds out her hand, and a tiny globe of darkness appears. She lets it expand, then dispels it.
"It's a racial ability of the Twilight elves. They retreated underground, into the darkness, and the darkness became a part of them. I can do it once a day. She can do it as much as she wants. It does lots of things. It hides her from sight, so spells needing to target her can't succeed. It confounds fighters and anyone else relying on sight for combat."
Sesha sighs.
"I know she won't use the same spells, only. But as a Spellweaver we know her number of spells is limited, and so every spell we know she can cast is one less surprise."
Garret Goodbarrel [AC:36/32/30; +4 vs AOO HP:134/134 Ki:14/16 CMD: 34 SR: 24] Monday May 2nd, 2016 8:04:40 AM
Garret walks with Tink and says, "Think about that -- this evil witch sent that massive beast after us just to send a message. She had to know that it would not kill us. I imagine she expected it would kill some innocents. But whatever power she has, she used it to send this massive creature. Either she is really delusional, using so much power to just send a message; or she is so powerful that binding and sending such a creature takes little effort! Either way, I think we are really in trouble here. I wonder if the Dragon Consortium can spare another team to send with us against this thing."
Beriothian -- AC:17/11/22 HP: 152/152 CMD = 19 Monday May 2nd, 2016 5:39:01 PM Thanks Sesha, every little bit we know about her helps. And if she is relying on spells we don't know about that would really limit what she is relying on... though I'm guessing it will be a combination.
Zane (JCC) AC 33 (34), CMB 16, CMD 32, HP 162/166, Character Monday May 2nd, 2016 5:42:17 PM "I've never met this woman, I expect she'll see me and then list me as a nothing." Zane just prepares to head back to Hook City.
Preparing for the Dragon Consortium (DM SteveK) Monday May 2nd, 2016 9:21:37 PM
Speculations abound, but with Katinka's forethought, things are in the works to meet the Dragon Consortium.
Five Mile is quickly repopulated and the news of the epic battle between the heroes and the colossal Rhemoraz flies before them. By the time the team gets back to Hook City, there are hucksters selling images commemorating the battle on plates, tapestries, and drinking goblets!
When the heroes finally get back to the Iron Tower, there is a letter waiting for them from the concierge of Alistair's Mansion:
"Unto the Iron Adventurers, the Manor of Alistair presents all good greetings. Be it known that the Dragon Consortium invites the Iron Adventurers to dine with them at sunset the next at our Manor. And have it known that the DC and IA may converse on many things in complete secrecy and utmost comfort. We welcome you to Alistair's Manor. "
It will be tomorrow night.
Bosk AC: (38/21/33) CMD: (35) hp 98/108 Spells Monday May 2nd, 2016 9:53:50 PM
Before the group can be carried away Bosk casts gentle repose on the Rhemoraz corpse and pays to arrange for the creature to be transported to Hook City and turned into a copper statue. What do you guys think. Creepy gargoyle for the tower, sculpture for the lawn, or perhaps the centerpiece for a large fountain?
RobC - Katinka Hushfoot -- AC 25/17/19 -- CMD 21 -- HP 143/143 -- Spells Monday May 2nd, 2016 11:42:46 PM
Tink had entirely thought Bosk was joking about keeping the Rhemoraz corpse as a souvenir. "As long as it doesn't scare the neighbours"
-------------------------------
Once back in Hook, Tink will excuse herself to visit the scholars and library of Hook. She wants to research as much as she can about Fae Skiemir. If the party are to be meeting with the DC, she wants to appear knowledgeable about the topic.
Garret Goodbarrel [AC:36/32/30; +4 vs AOO HP:134/134 Ki:14/16 CMD: 34 SR: 24] Tuesday May 3rd, 2016 7:39:27 AM
Garret skips along on the trip back to town. When he spots one of the souvenirs, he runs over and buys a plate. He says, "Hey, they don't all go up in value, but they have potential."
Restlin (Carl) -- AC +16/+13/+11 CMD: +15 HP: 116/116 (Spells) Luck Points: 10/14 Tuesday May 3rd, 2016 9:49:53 AM
"Half that thing is still underground, Bosk, if not more. How are you planning on transporting it back even if you do get it unburied?"
***
Back in town, Restlin takes a long bath, then goes back to bed for a few more hours. He was woken up early, after all. Wouldn't do to be unrested at an [/link href=http://media.tumblr.com/tumblr_m5ggseDIVv1r4ncgy.gif]elegant dinner party[/link].
Sesha broods in the tower. She thinks about how handily Mhalice outclassed her last time.. how could she defeat someone whose basic strengths lie in numerous spells and dispel power, when her own weakness was her very limited amount of spell power?
Gritting her teeth, she laid on the fur rug on the floor of her room, covered in smooth stones.
"Faith. Faith and friends. Two things she does not have."
Before Sesha heads to sleep, she casts a final spell on the day. Nightmare. She casts it once, and isn't sure if she pushed it hard enough to stick. Mhalice had considerable spell resistance. Having slots left to burn, she tries one more time, and is much more satisfied with her final push at the end.
She wasn't sure if Mhalice was even affected, but she was better able to sleep, for her own part.
Nightmare: Will save vs DC 22. Beats SR 19 Nightmare: Will save vs DC 22. Beats SR 30
Note: Nightmare modifies will saves based on knowledge of the target. If you are considered familiar with the target, there is a -5 penalty on the will save. I'll kindly ask the DM to decide if Sesha meets that burden.
Beriothian -- AC:17/11/22 HP: 152/152 CMD = 19 Tuesday May 3rd, 2016 4:41:10 PM
During the time before the IA's meeting with the DC Beri runs out to complete some errands. He meets up with Clarissa Brodery to ask her about a lead on someone with the skills he needs to craft some armor that will help him avoid another untimely meeting with Gargul. Luck has it that she knows a guy who can help, and takes Beri to a dwarven smith in MerchantTown. After a short discussion and a pint of ale the Dwarf agrees to make the armor for Beri. *** Beri joins the rest of the IA in Allistair Manor. The druid looks around and sees that the others are enjoying drinks and music prior to more serious business. Following the lead of the higher ranking DC members, Beri walks up to the bar and asks the attendant for a the same thing they are drinking. He then settles down in a comfortable chair and enjoys a few moments of calm before business starts again. *** (above discussion of armor was from Catacombs Transaction # 1488‏ email chain)
[DM Hugh] - Return to Allistair Manor d20+12=16 ; d10=8 ; d10=5 ; Tuesday May 3rd, 2016 9:36:11 PM Bosk casts gentle repose on dead Rhemoraz and pays for it to be transported to Hook City.
Restlin questions how Bosk is planning to get the corpse back to Hook City.
The corpse of the Rhemoraz had already been fully excavated from the hole in order to harvest all the gems embedded in its carapace.
A wizard by the name of Carlton Stumpf and his cohort a well muscled young man named Braego with a sword strapped to his back agree to do the job for 210 gp and 6 sp. After receiving the fee the wizard casts shrink item on the corpse reducing the 64 foot long Rhemoraz to a 4 foot long mini Rhemoraz. Braego easily picks up the dead monster and the 2 walk down the road to Hook City.
(OOC: I like the idea of the Rhemoraz being bronzed...if you are willing to pay for the spell and labor I rule you can have your Rhemoraz corpse transported home)
Tink had thought that Bosk was joking but Carlton and Braego's collection of the dead monster proved that to not be the case. She does not have an opinion on where to put it "As long as it doesn't scare the neighbours."
Garrett skips along the trail to Hook City and upon spotting the souvenir stands he runs over and purchases a plate for 3 cp. He says, "Hey, they don't all go up in value, but they have potential."
The merchant a stern looking man with a hook nose says, "Indeed, what you have there is a Poredona original. Poredona is thought to be a genius when it comes to plateware."
Sesha broods in the tower of the appearance of Mhalice. Before she goes to bed she casts 2 Nightmares directed at her rival. The first casting fizzles on the drow nobles spell resistance. The second casting succeeds and Sesha gets the sense that Mhalice is effected by the nightmare (OOC: took 8 points of damage) and that Mhalice dreams of being trapped in Fae Skiemirr unable to escape as she is beset by more and more monsters.
Beri meets with a dwarven smith in Merchantown in order to get armor that will save him from having to meet Gargul again.
================================================================================ In the time leading up to your meeting with the Dragon Consortium, Restlin relaxes by napping and bathing and Tink spends time looking into Fae Skiemir at the library of Hook with the scholars.
There is not a lot of information readily available but in an ancient tome regarding the history of the elven race you find a passage about how Fae Skiemir was the very first elven city and had been destroyed in the Second Age.
The night of the follow up audience with the Dragon Consortium has arrived and you head back to Allistair Manor. The mansion has been decorated in shades of green and the art work has been rotated to contain art reflective of Spring.
Once inside, the heroes are taken to a different antechamber than last time. This one is decorated with rich dark wood panels and has a large pair of animal horns hanging above a fireplace.
A well stocked bar is setup in one of the corners with an attendant.
plush leather seating available in several groups throughout the room.
Light music is played by the same group of four musicians who played last time.
In the room already are Valdor and Dalinor Tor; both are seated with drinks in hand.
Beri is a little late to this meeting and when he gets their he orders the same drink that Val and Dalinor are having.
Dalinor Tor [Cayzle] Tuesday May 3rd, 2016 10:28:53 PM
The short elf with severe black hair is unchanged from the last time you encountered her. Her silks and leather outfit remains impeccable. Her cloak of eyes looks here and there, though her natural-born eyes meet yours directly. She clinks her Dragon Consortium Ring against her glass as she rises from her chair.
"Welcome, welcome," she says smoothly. She gestures for you all to please be seated and comfortable. Servitors offer you all a range of drinks.
She waits to allow the Dragonstone to speak. If he is silent, she will ask you to bring herself and Valdor up to date.
Zane (JCC) AC 33 (34), CMB 16, CMD 32, HP 162/166, Character Tuesday May 3rd, 2016 10:47:04 PM
Zane helps himself to a drink and settles in to listen what is said. He has the manners of a sailor so he'll stay quiet for now.
RobC - Katinka Hushfoot -- AC 25/17/19 -- CMD 21 -- HP 143/143 -- Spells Wednesday May 4th, 2016 12:23:09 AM
Tink bows to both members of the DC "Once again, thankyou for gracing us with a meeting with you"
She looks for some non-alcholic drink - a cider perhaps. The last thing she would want is to get tipsy in front of such esteemed people.
---------------------------------------------- OOC: Posting for James/Bosk......
Before meeting with the DC, Bosk spends some time cleaning his armor and weapons. He wants to look his best for the DC, and although Rhemoraz blood would be a good talking point it probably wouldn't be appropriate to wear it to Alistair Manor.
Sesha [AC 39 /21 To/29 Fl] | HP 188/93 | CMD 22] Wednesday May 4th, 2016 1:56:07 AM
Sesha is quiet, and for the most part distant. She chooses not to wear her tribal leathers, and instead wears a halter dress of silvered thread, colored closely to her mithril shirt, which she wears underneath, arm sleeves exposed, glittering like the moon. Her white hair is worn down, pulled over one ebony shoulder.
When Restlin comes to call, she is ready for him. She dobs colored war paint under her eyes, a gift from the Ga'alin, to match whatever color he is wearing.
As they arrive at the manor, hand in arm, she stops a moment, and her dark brown eyes grow hard.
"Do not expect much livery from me tonight, Restlin. There are dark thoughts in my head. Fae Skiemir holds the truth of everything there is to my blood-kin. That, plus the return of Mhalice. I feel like I should be going alone to settle a blood feud, not marching in with a team of heroes. "
She growls, literally, and punches the wall. She looks at her scuffed knuckle, then uncurls her slender fingers and taps her chest.
"My heart is of three chambers, Mage-Priest. One is filled with the dark whispers of the Twilight Elves, suppressed, but always the skull-duggery of my blood-kin whisper to my soul."
She hits her chest again, harder, with a closed fist. "The next is filled with the fury of the Ga'alin Bloodwitch, which wants to drown the foes mind in Woldsblood and leave her shattered and subservient."
She looks quietly at Katinka and Bosk, and Beri and the others. She smiles a small crooked smile, one pokey canine gleaming.
"The last is where Serenbeth resides. Peaceful, youthful, full of hope and joy at the fulfillment of others. That's where the Iron Adventurers, the Guild, and duty to something greater lie."
She bites her lip, and looks up at him. "The Drow and the Ga'alin are winning my heart for now, and I don't see the softer side coming back until this business is settled."
She takes his arm again, but pauses for a second.
"Though perhaps you'll help me with that. There's another small place, spreading all over, and growing by the day." She pokes him. "That's where you stay, Mage Priest. You alone, special and unique. The boy who took an enchantress and charmed the breath from her lungs and the wits from her mind."
She cocks her head sideways and peers up at Restlin.
"I wonder, if you will own the lions share one day. That would certainly be a feat, you know. The clerics of Serenbeth where devout celibates, swearing off marriage and children and everything in between."
She takes a deep breath.
"But I'm a witch. Not a cleric. And I suppose I had better get ready for Dragonstone and Talidor, rather than prattling on like a nitwit."
Garret Goodbarrel [AC:36/32/30; +4 vs AOO HP:134/134 Ki:14/16 CMD: 34 SR: 24] Wednesday May 4th, 2016 8:26:35 AM
Garret apparently does not see their hosts and heads straight to the bar. Before the bartender can ask what he wants, Garret produces a mug with a picture of some tiny figures battling what might be a centipede. He says, "This is a collector's item, so be careful with it. That doesn't mean you don't have to fill it to the brim, of course!" He smiles and looks around the room, finally noticing their hosts. He nods in their direction as he waits for his shiny new mug to be filled.
Restlin (Carl) -- AC +10/+7/+7 CMD: +15 HP: 116/116 (Spells) Luck Points: 4/14 Wednesday May 4th, 2016 10:29:46 AM
Restlin pours through his closet. His finest robe was being used for Wardd knows what in the middle of a swamp. It still stung, but its sacrifice helped save the Wold. He supposes that was a fair trade. Of course, he was never big on robes to begin with. The only other one he owned was a house-robe, meant to be worn when eating breakfast or chatting about the day's events before bed.
He looks to Shiny, his intelligent sword and gift from his god. It sat on his bed, colors playing across its blade even though the light was still in his room. "Old friend, let's show you off tonight." He picks out a simple harness to carry the sword on his side, blade bare for all to see. He takes the blade's increased luminescence as a sign that Shiny approves.
Restlin himself wears a black suit with a white shirt & silver ascot, all tailored to his slight frame. He puts on his garish detective cap, then casts an extended disguise self spell to turn it into something more fitting (that spell will last 3 hours).
He listens to Sesha talk as they walk, patiently waiting for her to finish. He places his hand over the one she punched into a wall & lets what little power Wardd allows him to flow through & soothe it. Before they go in, he looks at her with a rarely seen seriousness.
"I'm not blind, love. I know you've been troubled lately." He continues walking into the manor. "...and I love the terrifying bloodwitch in you just as much as the joyful priest. I will be by your side through all of this, even if that means watching you go forward without me." His smile returns. "For now though, we're in my element, and I plan on having a good night."
He beams at the finery of the manor, though he is somewhat saddened by the fact that Allistair is no longer around. He was a good man & true friend to the Iron Adventurers. He orders a glass of amaretto & calls a toast before things get started. "To Allistair, without whom most of us would still be sitting in Hook City's prison."
[DM Hugh] - Return to Allistair Manor Wednesday May 4th, 2016 8:21:43 PM
Before the meeting Bosk makes himself presentable by cleaning his weapons and armor in order to look his best for the Dragon Consortium.
Sesha is quiet and for the most part distant as she readies herself for the meeting. She opts to wear a halter dress of silvered thread, colored closely to her mithril shirt, which she wears underneath, arm sleeves exposed, glittering like the moon. She styles her white hair worn down, pulled over one ebony shoulder. Lastly she applies silver colored war paint under her eyes to match Restlin’s ensemble.
Restlin pours through his closet looking for something suitable to wear. His one good robe is being used for Wardd knows what. He settles on a black suit with a white shirt & silver ascot, all tailored to his slight frame. He also showcases Shiny by wearing it in a simple harness with the blade laid bare for all to see.
The couple have a discussion about Sesha’s conflicted loyalties and the customs of Serenbeth’s clerics outside the manor Restlin comforts her by saying "I'm not blind, love. I know you've been troubled lately." He continues walking into the manor. "...and I love the terrifying bloodwitch in you just as much as the joyful priest. I will be by your side through all of this, even if that means watching you go forward without me." His smile returns. "For now though, we're in my element, and I plan on having a good night."
Dalinor Tor welcomes the Iron Adventurers and gestures for them to be seated and make themselves comfortable. She then asks the group to bring them up to speed since thier last meeting.
Garret does not see their hosts and runs over to the bar. The halfling produces a mug with a picture of some tiny figures battling what might be a centipede. He says, "This is a collector's item, so be careful with it. That doesn't mean you don't have to fill it to the brim, of course!" He smiles and looks around the room, finally noticing their hosts. He nods in their direction as he waits for his shiny new mug to be filled.
Zane helps himself to a drink and then settles in to listen. His natural inclination is to remain silent.
Tink bows to both luminaries and then thanks them for the meeting before seeking out a non-alcoholic sparkling cider.
Restlin proposes a toast on behalf of Alistair feeling somewhat saddened by the fact the man is no longer with them. He raises his glass of ameretto.
The Servitors start preparing a buffet style dining experience. They wheel a covered table into the room and start bringing in various lidded plates and bowls arranging them on the table. There is still a little time to start catching the DC members up on what happened before you eat...
Beriothian -- AC:17/11/22 HP: 152/152 CMD = 19 Wednesday May 4th, 2016 9:20:17 PM
Realizing they have a little time before business starts Beri gets up from his comfy chair and walks up to the DC members. Any chance you know about an enormous, jewel encrusted Rhemoraz that was luring near by? This beast was literally the thing of legends, the kind of thing poets wait their whole lives for. As beautiful as it was terrifying, I had never seen anything like it. But despite being ranked a king among it's kind, I fear it was but a minion of someone far more sinister... someone that apparently has been watching us, new we would try to stop their servant, and is already prepared to face us head on.
Zane (JCC) AC 33 (34), CMB 16, CMD 32, HP 162/166, Character Wednesday May 4th, 2016 9:46:58 PM "I know a message was sent, but I imagine you wish to hear about our trip a bit further away than just to Five Mile. If so, we were not there at the grove where we arrived at very long before we were set upon by those working for the creature we found responsible for the threat to Oyster Bay." Zane figures that someone else can tell it better than he can, important people like these usually don't want to hear a rough person like himself tell tales, his language would most likely offend them with how salty it'd end up being even if it wasn't meant to be.
Bosk AC: (38/21/33) CMD: (35) hp 98/108 Spells Wednesday May 4th, 2016 10:49:10 PM
Bosk is glad he cleaned up when sees the others dresses to the nines. He himself is wearing his highly polished steelgrass armor covered by a black pea-coat sewn of chimera skin. The material is strangely soft and warm, thick enough that it conceals any weapons or armor underneath yet light enough to be cool to wear in the sun...but more importantly he sees how the end sweeps just above the floor as he walks making him look totally bad but in a good way. On his breast is the adamantium emblem with the IA Shield Garret purchased for each of the group.
The Horned Cleric makes the most of his time, making the rounds and taking to time to get to know the Dragons. What type of quests did you have to undertake to become a Dragon? He asks each of them after learning where they all are from originally and what their specialties are.
ooc: Bosk is willing to pay to have his trophy bronzed.
RobC - Katinka Hushfoot -- AC 25/17/19 -- CMD 21 -- HP 143/143 -- Spells Wednesday May 4th, 2016 11:08:14 PM "We believe we succeeded with the first trial you set of us" Tink begins.
She relays what happened to the party in Oyster Bay. That they travelled there, were attacked by wyverns, met with High Druid Greybeard, ventured into the swamp, encountered froghemoths, battled lizard folk, and finally an umbral dragon named Korrine! Though she wasn't killed, her plans to invade the Wold were quashed.
"On our return here, we were called urgently to 5 Mile, where as the others have said, we encountered a gigantic jewel-encrusted rhemoraz. We did try to speak to it to end hostilities peacefully, but in the end we were forced to kill it. It relayed to us a message from, er, " Tink pauses in her story to glance at Sesha before continuing "someone we know. She claimed to have gone to Fae Skiemir. We also found this key - " Tink shows the DC the golden key that the group found trapped within a gem on the rhemoraz's hide.
Dalinor Tor [Cayzle] Thursday May 5th, 2016 7:41:39 AM
For now, Dalinor does not comment on the success of your mission. She focuses, laser-like, on the ancient city of the fey. And she has excellent reason to ...
She listens avidly to the story of the rhemoraz. "I deduce from your tale," she says, "that the monster did indeed come from Fae Skiemir, and that the magical city is also the ultimate source of the treasure adorning its carapace. It also explains how it grew so large. There are many magical beasts in Fae Skiemir, and often the amount of wealth a creature accumulates is directly proportional to its power."
The key is an object of fascination to her. "Yes ... yes. I suspect this is significant. Take care of this key, and be alert to its appropriate use."
She is happy to go on at length about Fae Skiemir, its history, and more. She tells the old tale of how the ancient elves lives there in ages past, when it was located in the mortal Wold. Those elves were the pure stock, so to speak, before their sundering into High Elves and Wood Elves and Twilight Elves and Sea Elves. She recounts, with a hint of sorrow that you have not seen on her face before, how the city failed as the elves conducted their civil war, and how it was only through the intervention of Queen Maab that the city was saved by a miracle. The Queen lifted the broken city out of the Wold and placed it in her own Vales of Twilight, and since then the city itself -- which some have called sentient in some manner -- has healed itself. Partially healed itself, seeing as elves do not live there any more, and what city of the elves can be whole without them?
The usually quiet elf realizes that she has been talking a lot, and she pauses to drink, possibly mildly embarrassed.
Garret Goodbarrel [AC:36/32/30; +4 vs AOO HP:134/134 Ki:14/16 CMD: 34 SR: 24] Thursday May 5th, 2016 8:11:16 AM
Garret listens as Dalinor speaks, with an occasional burp slipping out. He ducks when Sesha gives him "the look" and he tries to hold in additional burps.
Restlin (Carl) -- AC +10/+7/+7 CMD: +15 HP: 116/116 (Spells) Luck Points: 4/14 Thursday May 5th, 2016 10:07:32 AM
Restlin's eyes widen as Tink starts telling their story. Storytelling was his thing. She wasn't really going to take that from him in front of two of the most famous heroes in the Wold, was she?
Holy cow, she was! She was totally stealing his thunder! He takes a long pull from his drink, trying to calm himself, but it's not working. "She's totally telling this wrong," he thinks. "Her inflection is off. This isn't a debriefing for crying out loud. She's leaving out Garret's wrestling, and his sacrifice of his favorite robe! Did she just casually mention how Sesha saved his life? That was an epic moment!"
...and just like that, they were focusing on Fae Skiemir. Not even an appreciative glance from the Dragon Consortium. He grips Sesha's hand tightly under the table, trying to squash the selfish thoughts floating around his head. He understood, on some level, that the rest of the Iron Adventurers didn't necessarily share his love for flourish. He takes another drink.
Zane (JCC) AC 33 (34), CMB 16, CMD 32, HP 162/166, Character Thursday May 5th, 2016 3:37:37 PM
Zane is surprised that Katinka took the story telling over, he'd gotten used to Restlin doing so...."Katinka, I'm surprised that you described our adventure, were you afraid we'd be here for two or three days if Restlin told it?" She can easily tell that he is kidding with her, because he's actually smiling, almost grinning while asking the question.
Beriothian -- AC:17/11/22 HP: 152/152 CMD = 19 Thursday May 5th, 2016 5:11:26 PM
Beri listens intently as she mentions the key... About it's appropriate use... any chance the fact that it was inside a glass gem provides a hint as to what it's for?
Sesha [AC 39 /21 To/29 Fl] | HP 188/93 | CMD 22] Thursday May 5th, 2016 7:47:07 PM
Sesha squeezes Restlins hand, but stares intently at Dalinor through her whole tale. She drank up the stories of the Twilight Elves like water, and savored them like wine. When Dalinor was done, she was sad.
"How strange, that my former companions lost their way after Fae Skiemer, failing their test to become members of the consortium and disbanding all in one terrible moment."
She pauses.
"And now I am going there with new companions."
Sesha intakes a small breath, then adds.
"Unless she has gained some control over the beasts there, how could one use Fey Skiemer as a weapon?"
RobC - Katinka Hushfoot -- AC 25/17/19 -- CMD 21 -- HP 143/143 -- Spells Thursday May 5th, 2016 9:47:18 PM "But.. er ... he ... I" Tink starts to reply to Zane before realising he is kidding. There is a clear difference between Tink's retelling of the tale and the way Restlin' usually does. Tink's is very matter-of-fact and it is told more as a report than an epic tale.
"It may be a silly question, but how exactly does one get to Fae Skiemir? Obviously Mhalice found the way by herself."
------------------ OOC: I soooo waited for Restlin to do the story-telling! When I made my post, he hadn't posted yet, so I thought someone had better tell the DC what happened so that they could post. I honestly do love the passion and embellishments Restlin adds to the tales :)
Bosk AC: (38/21/33) CMD: (35) hp 98/108 Spells Thursday May 5th, 2016 11:44:21 PM
As the meeting turns to business Bosk turns to the buffet. He had lived the adventure, and knowing he went toe to toe with the creature and dealt a dealt deal of damage to it at the risk of his own hide and singing his fur was enough for the time being. He waits and listens, curious to the meaning of the key and what their next quest will be, as well as when the braise beef will be replenished, as well as if he will have time to upgrade his gear before their next mission.
ooc: Are we able to place our Catacombs orders at the time?
[DM Hugh] - Dinner is served Thursday May 5th, 2016 11:51:44 PM Beri gets up from his comfy seat and asks the DC members about the King Rhemoraz.
Zane mentions the message that they sent regarding the incident in Oyster Bay. and how they were beset by the minions of the creature who was responsible for the threat shortly after arriving.
Bosk is glad that he got gussied up, wearing his highly polished steelgrass armor covered by a black pea-coat sewn of chimera skin. The horned cleric makes the most of his time with the Dragon Consortium members. He asks them about their DC quests.
Tink also summarizes the success of Iron Adventurers’ first trial. She also goes over the King Rhemoraz and how it was sent by someone they know and produces the key.
Dalinor Tor listens to the tails of both the first trial and the King Rhemoraz before sharing some of her knowledge regarding the Elvish city of Fae Skiemir and the creatures that reside there.
Garrett listens as Dalinor speaks occasionally burping. He ducks when Sesha gives him “the look” and tries to hold in additional burps.
Restlin’s eyes widen as Tink starts telling their story. He critiques her delivery in his head before gripping Sesha’s hand under the table in order to quell his jealous mind.
Zane is also surprised that Tink took over the storytelling duties and he wonders if this is due to concern over Restlin’s long winded tendencies.
Beri asks the Dragons about the key and its appropriate use. He asks if the fact that it was in a glass gem might be a hint as to how it is to be used.
Sesha squeezes Restlin’s hand, but stares intently at Dalinor through her whole tale. She drank up the stories of the Twilight Elves like water, and savored them like wine. When Dalinor was done, she was sad.
"How strange, that my former companions lost their way after Fae Skiemer, failing their test to become members of the consortium and disbanding all in one terrible moment."
She pauses.
"And now I am going there with new companions."
Sesha intakes a small breath, then adds.
"Unless she has gained some control over the beasts there, how could one use Fae Skiemer as a weapon?"
Sesha starts to protest Restlin’s complaint when she realizes he was joking. She then asks how one gets to Fae Skiemer.
The servitors complete setting up the spread. There is assorted meats such as boar, beef, venison, pork, pheasant, chimera, hydra, and bear.
There are also various veggies; Some tubers that have been roasted in sage and thyme, grilled asparagus, steamed spinach, roasted sweet carrots, grilled corn on the cob, and a pepper relish.
Additionally there are assorted grains. There is rice, flat bread, dinner rolls, sliced bread and cous-cous.
Lastly there are 3 soups; a sea food chowder, a vegetable stew and a spicy soup with red broth and strips of tortillas sprinkled in it.
“We will be bringing out a dessert cart when you are done.” One of the servitors announces.
You can dig in while you continue to discuss Fae Skiemer and Mhalice with the DC
Garret Goodbarrel [AC:36/32/30; +4 vs AOO HP:134/134 Ki:14/16 CMD: 34 SR: 24] Friday May 6th, 2016 7:10:30 AM
When the food comes out, Garret makes a mad dash for it, beating everyone there. His eyes glaze over at the sight of the massive spread of meats. He gets woozy for a second and almost falls over. He mumbles, "Oh, the meats..."
Then he starts grabbing a bit of each thing on the buffet, filling his souvenir plate to overflowing. When there is not room, he shoves a couple pieces in his mouth. When even that is full he tucks a couple pieces of meat on the bone into his rope belt. He finally ends up taking a seat right next to the buffet, in case he runs out of food.
Restlin (Carl) -- AC +10/+7/+7 CMD: +15 HP: 116/116 (Spells) Luck Points: 4/14 Friday May 6th, 2016 9:32:15 AM
The meal un-rustles Restlin's jimmies a bit. He tries a little of everything, but sticks to just the chowder.
"So, when you folks say that this city was taken by Maab, what does that mean? Was the land the city was on literally ripped from the Wold and plopped in her domain? Were just the residents taken? Just the buildings? Mhalice found something obviously. What would be left in this world for her to find?"
Sesha [AC 39 /21 To/29 Fl] | HP 188/93 | CMD 22] Friday May 6th, 2016 2:50:04 PM
Sesha looks sideways at Restlin.
"Queen Ma'ab showed the Shadow Guardians the way, according to Larien."
Sesha thinks a bit more.
"There was a large tower, filled with the Elven mages which declared war on the Twlight Eelves and split our race. Maybe she found that?"
Dalinor Tor [Cayzle] Friday May 6th, 2016 3:15:08 PM There is the danger, when one is a loremaster, of valuing lore over heroism. You get the feeling that Dalinor is more comfortable speaking about ancient days and mysterious secrets than she is commenting on your recent valor. That is a reflection on her, to be sure, not on you!
Dalinor delves into the tales of times gone by with some measure of calm relish. She knows no more about the Key, however, she regretfully tells Beriothian, and she is not allowed to use her divinatory powers as you remain still applicants rather than Dragon Consortium members. You will have to figure that out for yourselves.
However, she is pleased to offer her informed speculation about Fae Skiemir.
Sesha asks how an enemy might control monsters. Dalinor answers, "Well, of course the mundame charms and magical controls available to any talented mage might suffice. Not to mention any number of magical items that might get the job done, had one the required resources. However, I would remind you of the Mythal that was created for the city. In ages past, it was the sentient guardian of the city, the brain in its body, the soul in the center. Now, like the city, it is tragically broken. But if one were able to control it, then one could surely control the monsters that now live in the ruins of the city."
Katinka asks how to get to Fae Skimier.
"The ancient elven city is in the Vales of Twilight, Maab's domain, in the Lands of Rest. Many are the valleys of that land, where the Queen has conserved her legacy. In ages past did she herself create many of the animals and plants of the Wold, but the agencies of gods and men have destroyed much of her handiwork, especially the more fragile, and she has gathered the remnants to her secret places."
"And her realm is also the abode of dreams and nightmares, tricks and treasures, for it was the home of the fey in the long time that the Wold's Cradle slept. Who knows what you will find there?"
"Of course, the usual modes of interplanar transit will achieve your gross purpose; Plane Shift among the easiest and most accessible. And I know of one famous route into her realm. Twice to my knowledge, groups of heroes have taken the overland route -- those were the Platinum Dragons and the Gray Knights. It was Joe Hand, maybe the greatest mage of the modern Wold, who told the Gray Knights the way to go. These were his words:
"Start at Edenmoor, the home of The Three. The short cut is nearby. It's just west of Edenmoor in a place called the Valley of Humiliation, where the last battle against the Aisildurians was fought 400 years ago. There's a magical gate in the dead end of that valley. You travel east down the valley and the door faces out west."
However, Dalinor is very careful to point out that this is just one path of several, and that the best path may be another. For example, the "short cut," as Joe Hand called it, may lead to the Valleys but not directly to the Elf City of Yore.
Dalinor smiles at Sesha. "Of course, you are right. As an arcanist, I seldom consider the divine solution. You might do very well to simply beg for help from the Fae Queen herself, especially if you are followers of hers, or if she has some reason to hold you in some measure of regard."
"Also, if my memory serves, and it has served me well so far, the dark elves were granted the loan of an intelligent magical item that served them as a guide. It is not in my power to grant such a boon, of course." She glances over at Valdor.
Beriothian -- AC:17/11/22 HP: 152/152 CMD = 19 Friday May 6th, 2016 6:36:41 PM
Beri's ears perk up at the mention of asking for help from the Queen herself. I've been a follower of Queen Maab for some time. I've seen the excitement in Bosk's eyes when we've met Gargul, I would be honored for the chance to meet the Queen. If the rest of the IA are fine with it, I would like to take the opportunity seek an audience with the Fae Queen. I am sure there is much we would learn if we were to seek her council.
RobC - Katinka Hushfoot -- AC 25/17/19 -- CMD 21 -- HP 143/143 -- Spells Friday May 6th, 2016 10:26:27 PM
Tink eats her meal and listens intently to Dalinor. She studies the elf in great detail, so as to remember these meetings in the future.
She has several questions going through her mind, but none that she thinks the DC would be able to help with. How did Mhalice - of all people - find her way to Fae Skimir? Did she do it by herself, or does she have aid? What is her grand plan?
[DM Hugh] - Hope You Saved Room For Dessert Saturday May 7th, 2016 10:39:38 AM Bosk listens to the DC and thinks about upgrading his gear before grabbing some braised beef.
(OOC: you can go to the catacombs)
Garret makes a bee line for the buffet and is sufficiently impressed by the meats. He loads up his plate, his belt and his mouth with savory morsels before taking a seat by the buffet.
Restlin becomes un-rustled by the food and samples a little of everything before ultimately deciding on the chowder. He asks a number of questions regarding Fae Skiemir, what would be there, how Ma'ab moved it and would be left to find.
Sesha says that Queen Ma'ab showed the shadow guardians the way and then points out that there was a large tower of elven mages that declared war on the Twilight Elves and that was what Mhalice found.
Dalinor Tor confesses that she knows no more about the key and is barred from using her discovery power on it while the Iron Adventurers are not yet Dragons.
She then explains a little more about the ancient Elven city and some of the potential avenues the Iron Adventurers might explore in order to get there.
Beri seizes onto Dalinor Tor's suggestion of petitioning Ma'ab and voices his excitement in support of seeking an audience with her.
Tink eats and listens to Dalinor Tor pondering several thoughts revolving around Mhalice that the DC would most likely not have answers for.
Valdor eats in silence seemingly preoccupied by the food.
You enjoy a large and luxurious meal. The servitors are attentive and fill cups before they empty and replenish dishes on the buffet table before they are completely exhausted. When everyone including Garrett has had their fill of dinner (this being no small feet as Garrett's appetite is legendary) the servitors wheel the buffet table away and replace it with a dessert cart. The bar while still containing various libations also changes slightly. The inventory is shifted a little and cognacs and brandies are arranged to be at the forefront.
The bar is extended a little and on one side large insulated metal thermoses containing Coffee, Hot Chocolate and Hot Water are brought out and various tea bags and containers of tea leaves with several diffusers are also laid out next to them. Additionally there is heavy cream, milk, chocolate shavings, marshmallows, cinnamon sticks and sugar cubes near at hand to customize your hot beverages as you wish.
The dessert cart itself is a treasure trove of sweets. There are several fruit sorbets, 5 different types of mousse. (chocolate, white chocolate, raspberry, orange and goodberry...yes you read that right the chefs at the manor have turned magical berries into a mousse). There are also various cakes. There is a red velvet cake, a chocolate lava cake, a sesame seed cake, and a magic herbal cake that when eaten may purportedly cause visions. There are tortes as well as cookies, brownies, fudge, blondies, chocolate truffles and petit fours.
Feel free to dig in and hopefully Valdor will share some of insight into his thoughts on Fae Skiemir...
Zane (JCC) AC 33 (34), CMB 16, CMD 32, HP 162/166, Character Saturday May 7th, 2016 10:56:02 PM
Zane recognized the drinks and a few of the cakes, he'd heard things about Lava Cake and decided that he needed to try it for himself and the fact that he loved fudge so he took some of that as well. "I was thinking about her having access to the city. If it's that magical a place and she's there, couldn't she use it's power as some sort of focus for her own magics?"
RobC - Katinka Hushfoot -- AC 25/17/19 -- CMD 21 -- HP 143/143 -- Spells Saturday May 7th, 2016 11:02:02 PM "Assuming she isn't bluffing and has actually found the city, there must be lots of very old unclaimed magical treasures there. Who knows how many artifacts she may have uncovered and used to bolster her own power?" Tink puts the question out there
"So, will this be our second trial then?" Tink asks with a grin to Dalinor.
Restlin (Carl) -- AC +10/+7/+7 CMD: +15 HP: 116/116 (Spells) Luck Points: 4/14 Sunday May 8th, 2016 7:44:30 AM
Restlin wonders why Valdor isn't speaking. He takes a big piece of vision cake, hoping to liven things up a bit.
Garret Goodbarrel [AC:36/32/30; +4 vs AOO HP:134/134 Ki:14/16 CMD: 34 SR: 24] Monday May 9th, 2016 7:50:15 AM
Garret absolutely gorges himself on the lavish food, it being some time since he has had all the food he can eat. He eventually unbuttons the top of his pants and plops down in a chair as the conversations continue. He listens, but doesn't completely understand all the various places and things under discussion. He prefers to just walk and end up in different places.
When the dessert cart shows up, Garret's eyes almost pop out of his head. He is stuffed, but cannot help himself. Before the cart stops moving, he has already reached out to the lower shelf and gotten a finger full of whipped cream. He looks down at his stomach and says, "Surely you can fit a wee bit more in there!" He grabs three plates of desserts and then slides one extra dessert onto one of the plates. He takes a seat at the table and tries to look interested in the discussion about the cities and queens he has never seen. He piles scoop after scoop of rich dessert into his mouth, each scoop a little slower than the last. Finally his eyes begin to droop as he puts just one more scoop into his mouth. As the conversation continues, his head falls to the table and lands in the remains of a dessert. Surprisingly, landing in the rich sugary pastry does not wake him, though everyone else notices his heavy breathing through his still partially full mouth...
Sesha [AC 39 /21 To/29 Fl] | HP 188/93 | CMD 22] Monday May 9th, 2016 12:04:22 PM
Sesha watches Garret, amused.
"I imagine the Dragon Consortium only offers three trials, because they cannot afford to feed adventuring halflings more than thrice."
The Hot Chocolate lifts her spirits just a little, especially with marshmallows and chocolate shavings. She did have a sweet tooth, after all.
She sighs, and watches Restlin eat the vision cake. She furrows her brow at the stuff. She was almost as strong a diviner as she was enchanter. Surely a cake couldn't affect her? She loads up and takes a bite.
Valdor Dragonstone Monday May 9th, 2016 12:33:59 PM
As dessert comes to a close, the servers make sure that everyone has a glass.
After dessert, the huge man stands. Valdor is a couple of inches above six feet and extremely muscled. He nods to you all and raises a goblet. "He who has heart to fight against the evil that threatens, must hear my words. I am Valdor, the Dragonstone. Leader of the Dragon Consortium and the Platinum Dragons. Friend to any who oppose this Mhalice, and brother to any who have taken up this fight."
The leader of the Dragon Heroes of the Wold is an impressive sight. He wears a mithril breatplate with the letter 'V' etched in gold on his shoulderguard on his left arm. There is also a figure of a gold dragon etched in gold on his chest. When he moves, the gold dragon appears to be moving as well, sometimes flying, sometimes walking, but always in movement. He has a mithril shield as well, with the gold dragon on it.
He carries three long swords and has two baldrics of daggers over his chest and back. When he moves, it might make you think about assassins, but there's no doubt that had he been an assassin, there would be a lot of bodies on the ground already. All of his weapons are obviously magical and of exquisite workmanship. However, one sword has a jeweled hilt and the scabbard has a red tint to it. Any who have heard of him know he was once called the dragonslayer and that sword has helped him earn that name many times over.
Valdor smiles, but he continues speaking in a formal mode:
"Your deeds so far on your path to Dragon Status have been impressive. You have indeed given us in the Consortium a hope that we need, difficult as your tasks have been. Dalinor Tor has offered up a part of her lore that is appropriate for you to hear. Now is the time to reveal the next part of your quest."
Valdor sits down, raises his glass a second time, and drinks deeply. "Ah. Well, now that the formalities are out of the way, we can talk. Ask me your questions!"
Restlin (Carl) -- AC +10/+7/+7 CMD: +15 HP: 116/116 (Spells) Luck Points: 4/14 Monday May 9th, 2016 1:00:48 PM
Restlin swallows his current bite of cake, then points his fork in Dalinor's direction. "appropriate for us to hear? Is there more lore that's not appropriate for us to hear? I don't know about the rest of the Iron Adventurers, but I'd like all the lore I can get my hands on if we're going to this place to fight Mhalice, especially if she's already there."
He eats more cake, wondering when the visions start. "...and are we going to get a formal declaration of our next quest, or can we assume it's 'stop Mhalice'?"
Zane (JCC) AC 33 (34), CMB 16, CMD 32, HP 162/166, Character Monday May 9th, 2016 3:59:00 PM "I would like to know if there is a little known back way to this place, one that Mhalice shouldn't have knowledge of. That way we can get there without allowing her to set even more things after us, at least until we are already there." Zane continues to eat the brownies....
Beriothian -- AC:17/11/22 HP: 152/152 CMD = 19 Monday May 9th, 2016 7:18:32 PM
Beri puts a spoonful of goodberry mousse and makes a mouthwatering dessert. Restlin brings up a good point. If we are to follow our previous path to it's logical conclusion, I would assume that our next task is to seek out Mhalice. I know it's a little presumptions of us to automatically take for granted that's what we are about to be asked to do, but I doubt we would have been discussing Queen Maab and the Twilight Vale if it were too far off the mark.
Zane is right, since we are expected then we would prefer an unexpected route. Would the Fae Queen be our best best for finding such a route?
And since Mhalice has been watching us, it would be useful to know if anyone has been watching her. Do we know of any knew spell she has learned, or tricks she has picked up? Any specific traps she's been rumored to be using recently that we should keep a watchful eye for?
Bosk AC: (38/21/33) CMD: (35) hp 98/108 Spells Monday May 9th, 2016 8:21:21 PM
Bosk waits for someone to ask the obvious, but when no one does he speaks up. If it is time reveal the next step part of our quest, can you tell us what it is? I assume we can guess parts of it, but I was always raised not to make assumptions. What is it that you would have us do, and what information have you gathered regarding it?
the Iron Adventurers Feast on Dessert and Information. (DM SteveK) Monday May 9th, 2016 8:40:19 PM
Some of the iron adventurers speculate, and some dig into the succulent treats. But it is finally when Valdor speaks, that the sweetest fare is ready to dine... Information!
As if that is a signal, the matre'd strides in with a tray of kaffe and other servitors with sweet liquors made from plum, Apple, or mint. There is also a clear spicy liquor that is made from stingroot!
And then, all the servants depart, leaving the hometown heroes alone with the heroes of the Wold. Alone for questions... And answers....
Dalinor Tor [Cayzle] Monday May 9th, 2016 10:45:20 PM
When the talk turns to spying, Dalinor is sure of herself: "There is no possibility that our meeting here is observed by any means short of the miraculous. Plan in peace, my friends."
The elf sage and arcanist smiles thinly as the talk turns to the journey. "Clearly, an appeal to the Divine Wisdom of Queen Maab might grant you all you wish, but what is the price of dealing with the Fey? They can be cruel or kind, generous or demanding. Myself, I would seek out a vision or painting of Fae Skimier. Study it. Perhaps scry it, if you can. Picture it as clearly as you are able. Then Plane Shift to the Twilight Valleys, and Teleport to the elven city. Your arrival point would surely be random, and likely unpredictable by those opposed to you."
She bows slightly, and motions to herself. "That is what I, a caster, would do -- find a way to cast a solution. Despite the obvious dangers, I would rather rely on my own magic."
"If you do take the path through the Valley of Humiliation, you do not know where you will arrive. However, it may be that you will have to journey a long or short way to the elven city of yore."
She grins, seeming almost eager to try this or that strategy herself.
Sesha [AC 39 /21 To/29 Fl] | HP 188/93 | CMD 22] Monday May 9th, 2016 11:35:55 PM
Sesha looks at the others.
"Scrying isn't a problem. In fact, we could scrying Mhalice as well as the vale, the city, or anything else."
She flicks Pot-pot, who responds with a sharp, metallic ring.
"Nothing this ol' lump of iron can't do."
RobC - Katinka Hushfoot -- AC 25/17/19 -- CMD 21 -- HP 143/143 -- Spells Tuesday May 10th, 2016 2:12:33 AM "It sounds that like with many travels, no one road leads to your target. We may have a few different ways to get to Fae Skiemir. That is, of course, if the next trial is to lead us there" Tink smiles and looks to Dalinor and Valdor.
For all the talk, neither has actually said what the next trial would be nor that Fae Skiemir would be their destination.
Tink then looks to Garrett and rolls her eyes. She's genuinely surprised the sugar-fix hasn't kept him awake. You'd have thought meeting and dining with the DC would be exciting enough to put off a little nap.
She reaches for a cherry and tries to balance it on top of his sleeping head. "Want to see how many we can do before they fall off?" she whispers to Restlin
Garret Goodbarrel [AC:36/32/30; +4 vs AOO HP:134/134 Ki:14/16 CMD: 34 SR: 24] Tuesday May 10th, 2016 8:11:31 AM
When the servants leave the room, the extra quiet only enhances Garret's food-induced coma. His head rolls slightly in the pastry, smearing it equally across the side of his face. His mouth still lies open as Tink carefully balances a cherry on his head.
Beriothian -- AC:17/11/22 HP: 152/152 CMD = 19 Tuesday May 10th, 2016 7:43:31 PM
Beri listens to the last suggestion made by Dalinor before she leaves. I'm not a fan of the random appearance. We are as likely as not to make things worse for ourselves. If we visit the Fae Queen at least we have strategy on our side instead of luck. I've been a loyal follower of hers for a long time, and I doubt she will take kindly to Mhalice messing about in Fae Skiemir. I don't know what to expect should we visit the Queen, but I believe she is our best bet for a safe and unseen entry.
Bosk AC: (38/21/33) CMD: (35) hp 98/108 Spells Tuesday May 10th, 2016 9:42:34 PM
Bosk thinks for a moment, questions pouring through his mind. Can anyone tell me more about the treasures and secrets of Fae Skiemir? What could she be after and how can that so drastically affect the Wold to involve the Dragon Consortium and Fae Queen?
The Second Test (DM SteveK) Tuesday May 10th, 2016 10:00:13 PM
Between Valdor and Dalenore, they present a couple of options to get to Far Skiemir, and all lead the Iron Adventurers to one conclusion: they are going to have to study and divine and ask someone who may know even more than Beri and Bosk about the Valleys of Twilight if they are going to discover a way to the fabled city.
Dalenore is her usual self, giving facts without giving advice. (If any hero considers the last meeting and what is known of the elf Mage, they recall she has never ever actually given directions, only facts and options).
Valdor on the other hand has been unusually silent and mostly just watching the actions and ideas of the Iron Adventurers. (Sense Motive DC 20: the hero has a hunch that thinking out the terms of the Second Test is the first part of the test!). The scarred warrior's eyes gleam as Katinka begins to put the pieces together...
Zane (JCC) AC 33 (34), CMB 16, CMD 32, HP 162/166, Character Tuesday May 10th, 2016 10:25:01 PM
Zane, leans back, takes a drink , thinks for a few moments..... "Well, I suppose since this is a magical city, they have a good library here right? Not that I'd be much good there, but wouldn't looking what information is in that library be the best place to start? Then maybe search up a Priest or a Druid who is dedicated to the Queen. Maybe like a Druid whom we just assisted, to see what information they might have, and explain why we are asking, because if they know that a crazy evil person has access to the City, they might just be more willing to assist us."
Garret Goodbarrel [AC:36/32/30; +4 vs AOO HP:134/134 Ki:14/16 CMD: 34 SR: 24] Wednesday May 11th, 2016 10:05:49 AM
Garret snorts a little and the cherry rolls and bounces off his nose and across the table. He tries to chew some more, but still remains in his food coma.
Sesha [AC 39 /21 To/29 Fl] | HP 188/93 | CMD 22] Wednesday May 11th, 2016 10:35:30 AM
Sesha figures they have what they need. She looks at Dalinor a little wistfully. Would that she had the time to pick her brain about all things elven, in general. Sesha was no scholar, but her history was important, and something she had learned little of.
She sighs and pushes away the so called "vision cake." It was an interesting thought.
"Well, then I think we are probably done here. We have some things to do, now that paths have been revealed. I'm going to get started. There's scrying to do, and divination to cast."
Restlin (Carl) -- AC +10/+7/+7 CMD: +15 HP: 116/116 (Spells) Luck Points: 4/14 Wednesday May 11th, 2016 4:09:55 PM
People are talking about things. There are mentions of divination, and frankly, that's where Restlin stops listening. He considers the fact that Sesha handles all of that a great perk to their relationship.
Instead, he concentrates on making a cherry pyramid on Garret's belly, using mousse as mortar to hold it together.
***
Sorry, I've been out o' pocket since yesterday morning.
Beriothian -- AC:17/11/22 HP: 152/152 CMD = 19 Wednesday May 11th, 2016 4:50:56 PM If we are going to discuss we may as well stay here and make them where there are drinks, desserts, and charms to protect against prying ears. We can make... is that a pyramid? We can make food art as well I suppose, but I'd prefer to have decided on a course of action before we leave.
I do agree that scrying is a good idea as well. That may provide some hints as to how to proceed as well
The Second Test (DM SteveK) Wednesday May 11th, 2016 8:18:41 PM
The two Dragon Consortium heroes look at each other and there is a perceptible nod. Valdor speaks. “Yes, we think that going to Fae Skeimir and ending this threat is a very good Second Test. So your job? Find an entrance to the Valley of Twilight where Fae Skeimir lays. Enter, make allies and enemies, discover Mhalice’s purpose and eliminate any threat from her. Gain as much treasure as you can find and hold, and escape with your lives before the wrath of the entire city comes down upon you.”
"With that, we will leave you to your plans."
Valdor and Dalenore stand and allow one last pause for any questions.
Bosk AC: (38/21/33) CMD: (35) hp 98/108 Spells d20+5=15 ; Wednesday May 11th, 2016 9:20:28 PM
The blond taur slowly sips on the clear spicy liquor that is made from stingroot and wonders if he could get a bottle for his collection before taking a minute to think things through. I appears we are no going to learn much more about Malice. Dalinor, could you please tell us more about that intelligent item that was on loan to the dark elves? Could that be what she is after?
ooc: Sense motive check = 15, fail
Bosk AC: (38/21/33) CMD: (35) hp 98/108 Spells Wednesday May 11th, 2016 9:23:25 PM Wait, what do you mean before the city comes down on us???!!!
(I was working on my post before dinner did not refresh to see the DM post.)
RobC - Katinka Hushfoot -- AC 25/17/19 -- CMD 21 -- HP 143/143 -- Spells Wednesday May 11th, 2016 10:45:59 PM "We will do our best to make you proud" Tink says, standing as the DC does and then asking her final question "Is it ok if we stay here and do our planning? As Beri has said, it would give us privacy"
Zane (JCC) AC 33 (34), CMB 16, CMD 32, HP 162/166, Character Wednesday May 11th, 2016 11:28:39 PM
Zane waits until the DC representatives have left, not that he's worried about them, it's just that this is their test. "What do you want me to do? My skill set is not truly useful for getting us ready, I should be handy once we get there, I hope."
RobC - Katinka Hushfoot -- AC 25/17/19 -- CMD 21 -- HP 143/143 -- Spells Thursday May 12th, 2016 12:54:22 AM "I'm thinking we need to gather as much information as we can, as quickly as we can. That might mean we need to split up. A few of us could go through the Hook Library. Go through records, read books, and so on. Maybe talk to the scholars there. Others could go back and visit the Druid and see what he might know. Maybe even that witches coven we found in the swamp might have some information? Tonight we should prepare all sorts of divination spells for tomorrow. Not just about Fae Skiemir, but about Mhalice as well. The key we found might prove an interesting topic, or perhaps even act as a focus."
Garret Goodbarrel [AC:36/32/30; +4 vs AOO HP:134/134 Ki:14/16 CMD: 34 SR: 24] Thursday May 12th, 2016 7:19:54 AM
When the chairs slide out as people stand up, Garret stirs. His eyes blink and he tries to stand. He stumbles and the cherry pyramid falls. He looks down, then quickly grabs the cherries and slips them into his mouth and says, "MMmff. Yes. We..." He looks around to see if anyone noticed him napping.
Restlin (Carl) -- AC +10/+7/+7 CMD: +15 HP: 116/116 (Spells) Luck Points: 4/14 Thursday May 12th, 2016 9:45:01 AM
Restlin stands and stretches. "Divination magic and I don't get along." He pats his belly, unhappy that the vision cake he ate didn't have much of an effect. "I'll go to the library & talk to some scholars. I'll also head to my temple & see if I get lucky there."
He frowns as his pyramid falls to the ground. He knew going into its construction that it was to be a temporary structure.
Dalinor Tor and Valdor Dragonstone [Cayzle] Thursday May 12th, 2016 10:52:53 AM
The Dragon Heroes do not ignore your questions [OOC: although a mere PTB can be late, for sure!] Valdor and Dalinor answer each of your queries in turn.
Can anyone tell me more about the treasures and secrets of Fae Skiemir? ... Well, I suppose since this is a magical city, they have a good library here right? Wouldn't looking what information is in that library be the best place to start?
"Yes," says Dalinor, seriously. "The search for lore is never fruitless."
What could Mhalice be after and how can that so drastically affect the Wold to involve the Dragon Consortium and Fae Queen?
Valdor smiles. "We look forward to hearing your report and conclusions on this issue."
Could you please tell us more about that intelligent item that was on loan to the dark elves? Could that be what she is after?
Dalinor looks at Valdor, who nods. She says, "This was the Dragon Ring of Nonam, a member of the Storm Dragons. It had all the usual features, meaning that you can talk to any member and mass teleport up to 10 people with it. However, Nonam's ring had an additional power: His ring could detect any magical gate anywhere. It could lead you to gates nearby, or, if you ask for the easiest route to any location not on the Wold itself, it will tell you the way as well as act as your guide. It is said to be the only intelligent Dragon Consortium Ring ever made. It is intelligent and literal; you might get a different result if you ask for the 'fastest route' rather than the 'safest route.' Also, it is both proud and condescending. It once told a group of heroes that its name was 'Nibelung,' ... but I suspect that may have been its idea of a practical joke."
Dalinor glances again at Valdor, and then offers this extra tidbit, in a lower tone. "The Ring of Joe the Hand has not been seen since it was given to the Surface Drow Heroes of the House of Bralfah. Perhaps it was left in the city. Perhaps they delevered it to the Queen. Perhaps they keep it still, or returned it to Onrad. You cannot mistake it if you see it: The ring is a solid band of mithril. Carved on it, in Old High Woldian, is the phrase, 'Nonam's Dragon Ring.' On the inside of the band is a moving animation of a storm."
Wait, what do you mean before the city comes down on us?
Dalinor resumes her lecturing tone. "Once you pass the guard of the mythal and enter Fae Skimier, the city itself becomes aware of you. It will tolerate strangers for a time, but in the end, the mythal rejects those who have not mastered it. In this way, the magic of the Queen protects the city from change. If your Mhalice remains within the city, it suggests that she has hidden herself from the mythal, or come to an accommodation with it, or fooled it."
Valdor stands. "I am sorry I have been preoccupied," he says, "and distracted by my own duties." He holds up his right hand, on which he wears his own dragon ring. "But we are proud of what you have done so far, and we are confident that you will win through. And we look forward to seeing you work as an active dragon group; we need new energy and blood. It is draining, to be a hero, and nowadays I find the politics and paperwork overwhelm me as the monsters and marauders never did!" He smiles, shaking your hands. He reaches out to his slight elf friend, and they leave you to your planning and privacy.
Sesha [AC 39 /21 To/29 Fl] | HP 188/93 | CMD 22] Thursday May 12th, 2016 1:47:04 PM
(Sent an email ooc asking about loot.)
Sesha nods and heads right to her room with Pot-pot. She asks Katinka to join her.
"I'm going to try scrying first on Mhalice. If successful, we can maybe see enough of the room she is in for a idea of where she is. If so, you could re-draw the room with an illusion, maybe good enough for us to use the image to teleport."
(OOC: DM Hugh - I don't have the email )
Beriothian -- AC:17/11/22 HP: 152/152 CMD = 19 d20+1=6 ; Thursday May 12th, 2016 5:20:04 PM Well, that rind sounds handy. I think I'll try to track down the Storm Dragons, If they don't still have it I can't think of a better source to find out where it was last seen. I'm curious if the ring will tell us to talk to the Queen, or avoid her! knowledge-local = 6 Well, I don't think I know where they currently reside. Anyone else have an idea? Othewise I'll try hunting down their last address... with the massive amounts of paperwork I'm sure I'll find something tomorrow, though it may be a long hunt. I think I'll stop by the tavern on the way home... anyone a little more diplomatic want to join me? I'm afraid I don't have an eloquent tongue and would have better success with some help... I'll even buy you an ale (aid another).
The Iron Adventurers Plan(DM SteveK) Thursday May 12th, 2016 8:28:11 PM
With a few last words of advice, the Dragon Consortium members leave. The Iron Adventurers know they can always contact them through the services of Alistair Manor.
Beri thinks of the Storm Dragons but barely remember they are from somewhere in the Northern Continent.
Bosk realizes that Valdor was speaking in alliteration. It is probably not the city itself that would attack the heroes, but every treasure-hungry creature coming after the team. But hen again, the city and mythal seem to be both semi-sentinent....
Restlin suggests the city library and the city librarians that may help.
Katinka thinks about the recent Witches and the Druid from near Oyster Bay.
As the heroes think of people who have specialized knowledge, they remember up on the Marble Causeway is where all of Hook City's temples are. And within the temples are several people that know and hold the IA in high esteem. Particularly the temples of Jantierri, Panthenon, Wardd, and... Maab.
Sesha promises to do a scrying to find Mhalice.
Zane (JCC) AC 33 (34), CMB 16, CMD 32, HP 162/166, Character Thursday May 12th, 2016 9:16:54 PM "I'm not a very devote follower of Imod, but I think I'll make a visit to the temple and seek advice there. Anywhere else anyone wants me to stop by?" Zane will head to the temple and seek out one of the higher priests and ask if he has ever heard of Fae Skimier.
Bosk AC: (38/21/33) CMD: (35) hp 98/108 Spells Friday May 13th, 2016 12:03:32 AM
Bosk nods. I will join you. I have the feeling we will need a the help we can get. I just need to stop at the Catacombs long the way.
RobC - Katinka Hushfoot -- AC 25/17/19 -- CMD 21 -- HP 143/143 -- Spells Friday May 13th, 2016 4:15:28 AM "Hold up, Restlin! I'll come with you" Tink quite enjoys visiting the library in Hook. There is just so much there to learn. Her curiosity would have to wait however. Today's task is to find out all she can about the legend of Fae Skiemir.
If any scholars are impressed by the sight of her IA badge (or perhaps growing reputation?) she will enlist their aid in the search for information.
Restlin (Carl) -- AC +10/+7/+7 CMD: +15 HP: 116/116 (Spells) Luck Points: 4/14 Friday May 13th, 2016 9:42:02 AM
"Okee dokee, Tink," he replies. "But we're making a stop along the way."
He leads the halfling up the Marble Causeway. "This place can get weird sometimes. Just roll with it." When he arrives at the temple of Wardd, he throws the door open and immediately yells, "Hey! Any of you know anything about Fae Skiemir?" Pantheon help Tink if anyone at the temple wants to hear what Restlin's been up to lately. She'll have to drag him out of there.
After he gets his answer (or lack of one), it's off to the library. Restlin will let Tink deal with the scholars; they're stuffy folks most of the time. He'll seek out information in the scrolls/books directly.
Garret Goodbarrel [AC:36/32/30; +4 vs AOO HP:134/134 Ki:14/16 CMD: 34 SR: 24] Friday May 13th, 2016 10:43:57 AM
When Sesha mentions heading back to her room, Garret mumbles, "I'll go with you, you know, to keep guard at the Iron tower and stuff... in my room, too. It is just about nap time, right?"
Bosk AC: (38/21/33) CMD: (35) hp 98/108 Spells Friday May 13th, 2016 6:35:26 PM
Bosk glances back towards Garret. We are sure there were no sleeping curses on any of the treasure, right?
Beriothian -- AC:17/11/22 HP: 152/152 CMD = 19 Friday May 13th, 2016 8:19:32 PM Well, I guess I'll head to Maab's temple then. Probably the most logical place to start, and it is my deity's temple. Anyone else want to come with me?
Sesha [AC 39 /21 To/29 Fl] | HP 188/93 | CMD 22] d20+15=25 ; d20+15=21 ; d100=26 ; d100=49 ; Saturday May 14th, 2016 4:03:36 AM
Sesha frowns, then goes alone to her room. She is surprised to hear giggles coming from Y'zargo's quarters, but chooses not to interrupt the man. For all she knew, he may have been "furthering her cause", in his own way.
He mind drifts back to Five Mile. It seemed the ideal place to get started, in all truth. Honest, eager people. Would they accept her and Serenbeth? Would her coven have some peace there?
She snorts. There was no coven. Not yet.
With a huff, she gathers what's necessary for her scry spell. She casts detect magic, see invisibility, and then finally, Scry.
Beats SR 25.
The Iron Adventurers Seek (DM SteveK) d100=28 ; Saturday May 14th, 2016 5:12:40 PM
Bosk and Zane travel across the city from SouthHook, over the Bridge, and then into NorthHook and up the Marble Causeway to look for the Temple to Imod. They pass large buildings for the Crones, Burfells, Celisiun, and Vé-Eldfjöll. There are other more secretive cults that are only known by the region; Dre-Moria, Turak Nor, and The Edge. They pass the very large and open temperature lento the dual Powers Ma'ab and Eberyon and the small but bustling one of Sargrass.
And then they come to the smaller, less attended ones of the Northern Gods; those of the Wold, of Testing, and of the dead gods from the Year of Ascension. It is here, where most of the people are hurrying by the entrances, that the two minotaurs find the temple to Domi/Imod. Walking in, the temple is a single room in an octagon shape. Each wall is a larger than life fresco of an aspect of Domi and a small votive area, and a small door that leads to another location. There is Domi the wrestler, Domi the defender, Domi as a centaur, Tomi as the Liontaurs name him, and Imod of the Minotaur. At the votive of Imod is a robed and graying Minotaur just laying a iron-wrought rose on the floor. ......
Restlin and Karinka go to The Library, but first make a stop at the temple of Wardd. Restlin strides into the doors and just shouts his request to the room! As Katinka and Restlin enter, the place looks like a big room with a large statue of a mischievous human male pirouetting on a sword's edge... And laughing. About the statue are a hodge-lodge of, well, stuff. A broken take, a silver coin the size of a dinner plate, curtains, an un-named vial of liquid: the items aren't in any order, just the most random of random! And the half-dozen people are just as varied. Half ignore the shout. One starts mumbling over and over 'Fae Skeimir, Fae Skiemir...' One shouts back "Glad to meet you. My name is Fae Skeimir!" And one shrugs her shoulders, "Sorry!" But comes over two the teammates. "You are Restlin and Katinka of the Iron Adventurers." It is not a question, but a statement. "Loved the huge projection of the fight with the dinosaur. What's been happening?" ......
Beri goes to the temple of Ma'ab and Eberyon, and sees the usual grottoes of every possible natural environment. There are beings of every type moving around or staying in one spot and meditating. Those that recognize the Druid (from many previous visits) nod, bow, or wave as suits them. Just like in a natural environment, they tend to leave Beri alone unless he initiates an encounter. ......
Sesha and Garrett go back to the Iron Tower. The neighborhood knows that the heroes are once again in residence. So it is no surprise, that there are a couple of boys on the front steps of the tower who immediately run off, one to Brodery Apothecary and one to the Guilded Boar. (Obviously errand boys tasked to report when any of the heroes got back that night). Still, Garrett has time for a nap and Sesha has time for her spells before there is a knock on the door. There is no knowing what the drow witch's attitude will be, for her scrying showed nothing other than a billowing gray fog...
Restlin (Carl) -- AC +10/+7/+7 CMD: +15 HP: 116/116 (Spells) Luck Points: 4/14 d20+12=22 ; Saturday May 14th, 2016 5:29:13 PM
Restlin bends down & whispers in Tink's ear, "you owe me this." With a smile, he pulls his minor image wand from his quiver and creates the illusion of Korrine curled around the statue of Wardd.
"Behold Korrine! The ancient umbral dragon who commands armies of serpent men from beyond the borders of our world!"
He then goes into the story, hopefully gaining the attention of more than the two who asked him.
Storytelling: 22
RobC - Katinka Hushfoot -- AC 25/17/19 -- CMD 21 -- HP 143/143 -- Spells Sunday May 15th, 2016 2:52:25 AM
Tink chuckles quietly. Yes, Restlin was indeed a master story-teller.
She leans against a wall and listens with great interest. Restlin's tellings were always so grandiose it was like hearing them for the first time.
Zane (JCC) AC 33 (34), CMB 16, CMD 32, HP 162/166, Character Sunday May 15th, 2016 6:23:48 PM
Zane walks over to the 'Taur in front of the area dedicated to Imod. "Excuse us, This is Bosk and I'm Zane, we are searching for some information on an ancient lost location. A place called Fae Skeimir. We've gotten some information that a very Evil person has already gotten there and is using it to attack the Wold or is in the process of getting there to do the same."
Garret Goodbarrel [AC:36/32/30; +4 vs AOO HP:134/134 Ki:14/16 CMD: 34 SR: 24] Monday May 16th, 2016 7:56:51 AM
Garret sleeps just a short time, but it is a good, deep sleep. When he wakes up, he heads over to check on Sesha's door, but when he finds it closed, he quietly slips away and lets her do her witchy things. He heads downstairs to see if he can find a snack in the kitchen when he hears the knock on the door. Not expecting anything evil today, he opens the door wide to see who might have dropped by.
Beriothian -- AC:17/11/22 HP: 152/152 CMD = 19 Monday May 16th, 2016 7:38:34 PM
Beri glances around the temple and seeks out the head priest/priestess who is in attendance at this hour and will ask them for a moment to discuss the matter in private.
"Excuse us, I am Beriothian Galanodel of the Iron Adventurers. We have been tasked with finding a sorceress named Mhalice. We have been made aware that she has infiltrated Fae Skeimir and it appears she has been corrupting it. The jewel encrusted Rhemoraz that recently attacked was her work.
If possible, we wish to seek an audience with the Queen. She may be able to give us guidance as to how we can enter safely and undetected, and may be in possession of a ring that will help us on this task. If not, at the very least we would like to get her blessing to enter and defend the city from this threat. I have devoted myself to the Queen, and feel blessed to find myself with the opportunity to be a defender of her realm... if she'll have me. "
Bosk AC: (38/21/33) CMD: (35) hp 98/108 Spells Monday May 16th, 2016 10:12:09 PM
Bosk watches the minotaur laying the iron rose on the floor. The sight brings him back to his childhood and helping his father, master vintner, making the Sacred wine of Imod. After Zane speaks he adds, Any help you could provide would be appreciated.
Zane (JCC) AC 33 (34), CMB 16, CMD 32, HP 162/166, Character Monday May 16th, 2016 10:57:54 PM
Zane, awaits an answer, quietly.
ADM Carl posting for Steve Tuesday May 17th, 2016 8:21:03 AM
Restlin has someone he can tell the story HIS way! The showman takes just enough time to not-apologize to Katinka before he launches the story of Korrine! The woman, already having been impressed with the Minor Image Battle between the Iron Adventurers and a giant carnivorous dinosaur that happened just outside on the Marble Causeway (flashback: could it have been a year ago when the festivities leading to the Day of Faith had a carnival inside the walls and that carnival had a dinosaur get loose? Yes, it certainly was!)
Katinka shows no problem with the Mendicant's story-telling, in fact, she seems to quite enjoy it! By the end, Restlin has caught the attention of all six people in the temple and even pulled in some passers-by from the street! A hearty round of applause fills the temple at the sudden winking out of the Minor Image and end of the story. Restlin and Katinka get back-slaps and handshakes and well-wishes for the story and the Iron Adventurers. Two even ask for autographs. Sadly, though, it seems only the crazy repetitive one and the habitual liar 'know' anything about Fae Skiemir. The Temple of Wardd is no lead this time.
Zane takes the initiative in the Temple of Domi and the Votive Chapel of Imod. Bosk adds his appreciation for any information. The robed minotaur straightens slowly. The two Iron Adventurers can see this is probably the oldest minotaur they have ever met, though he still moves with grace and controlled, husbanded strength. "I am Marcasthai, a fighting monk from a travelling family. I had a dream from Imod to come to Hook City and gift the Rose of Macasthai to his temple." The old minotaur smiles. "And now I know why, Zane Stormfront. I was a companion of your father, Izibar when he went to search for his wife and infant child on the storm-tossed seas of the Southern Ocean."
The story that Marcasthai tells is of a devoted husband and father who found the wreckage of the Stormfront after (apparantly) Zane was rescued. Izmir and Marcasthai, with a crew of adventurers specializing in underwater magics scoured the ocean floor. Over the years, all were killed, including Izibar, who sacrificed himself so that Marcasthai may escape. In his investigations, Izibar was convinced Wanda and the Stormfront was still alive; that only parts of the ship were floating about or in the waters below. Marcasthai, now older and alone, speculated that if Izibar was right, but no rumor existed, then the Stormfront must be either in another dimension or in Jericho Space.
Marcasthai, however, has no information about Fae Skiemir.
Garret sleeps, checks on Sesha's witchy things, and goes downstairs to answer the knock on the door. There are two recognizable figures at the door. The one is one of the waitstaff for the Guilded Boar, the upscale Inn and Tavern on the corner of Iron Tower Square. He provides an invitation for the Iron Adventurers to come to a new dishes sampling party at the Guilded Boar scheduled for next week. The proprietor scribbled a personal note to Bosk that if he wants to bring one of his own dishes learned from years of travel, it would be the 'piece de resistance'.
The other person is Gat Brodery, one of the many Brodery's that take care of Brodery Apothecary. "Bosk heah?" he asks without preamble in an accent still heavy of the MudTown backstreets. "JimBim says tuh me, go get Bosk n tell 'im sum new merchandiz is heah. OK, now yew cn tellum." Message done, Gat wanders away. (Garrett and all the IA know that Gat is the most unpredictable of the Brodery family, and it is highly unlikely to get any more information from him.)
Beri glances around the temple and seeks out the High Priest, the Awakened Tortoise named Torm. The Iron Adventurer is well known in the temple, so when he starts asking around, a slim elfess quickly arrives. "Druid Beriothian Galanodel of the Iron Adventurers, you are well come. High Priest Torm is in meditation and left message for when you next returned. He said you would be asking about Fae Skiemir. The message is that he wishes to meet with all the Iron Adventurers before you set out for your quest, but it must wait until he is done meditating." When Beri asks the next obvious question, the elfess replies; "I don't know when that will be. The last time High Priest Torm meditated, it was for a month. We will send a message to you when High Priest Torm next awakens."
Garret Goodbarrel [AC:36/32/30; +4 vs AOO HP:134/134 Ki:14/16 CMD: 34 SR: 24] Tuesday May 17th, 2016 9:05:35 AM
When the Guilded Boar representative mentions food, Garret rubs his belly and starts to protest, but smiles when he hears it is next week. He replies, "Oh yes, indeed, I will certainly be hungry by that time. We shall be glad to make an appearance, if we are still in town. And perhaps if we leave town, we can plan to do that again when we return? I'll be sure to get Bosk to help out."
When Gat talks to Garret, he nods his head and waves when Gat walks away.
He will pass the messages on to the others when he sees them again.
Restlin (Carl) -- AC +10/+7/+7 CMD: +15 HP: 116/116 (Spells) Luck Points: 4/14 Tuesday May 17th, 2016 9:44:25 AM
"Well, always a crap-shoot when dealing with Wardd's followers. Last time Sesha and I came here we hit the jackpot."
Restlin's step is much lighter now than when he started out this morning. "So," he says to Tink. "Off to the library then? Probably have better luck there."
With that, the mendicant skips off towards the library.
RobC - Katinka Hushfoot -- AC 25/17/19 -- CMD 21 -- HP 143/143 -- Spells Tuesday May 17th, 2016 11:08:10 AM
Tink happily signs autographs for whoever requests them. Fame is still a very new thing for her, and she wants to embrace it. She is a little sad to leave the temple, but duty calls. They still need to find out as much as possible about Fae Skiemir, and so far the pair haven't learnt a thing.
Tink momentarily considers pointing out the irony - better 'luck' in a library than a Temple of Wardd - but figures she doesn't want to burst Restlin's bubble. He's still on a story-telling high.
Sesha [AC 39 /21 To/29 Fl] | HP 188/93 | CMD 22] Tuesday May 17th, 2016 1:07:38 PM
Sesha stares into the iron kettle quietly, then relents. There was no point raging. Either Mhalice was smart enough to cast of one many spells to prevent scrying, or all of Fae Skeimer was somehow protected.
Having struck out, she finds a place to sit and think for awhile.
(What was our last loot distribution? I seem to remember something but I cant be sure.)
Zane (JCC) AC 33 (34), CMB 16, CMD 32, HP 162/166, Character Tuesday May 17th, 2016 6:51:53 PM
As Marcasthai tells his tale, Zane barely manages to keep his jaw from hitting the floor. When he finishes, "I assume that you know they sailed after a band of pirates and ran into the mother of all storms. I was found by a fisherman a couple days after the storm died out. I was found floating on the stern plate, that's how I got my last name. I was dropped off at a monastery run by monks, where I lived for a few years. I raised my share of heck and the last time I visited the brother who was responsible for me admitted that all of them were glad I left. But they are also happy I have made good my life. All I've been able to find out is the pirates seemed to vanish sometime around the time I was found and no one knows why. I wish to thank you Marcasthai, anything I can do for you?" Zane's not ignoring Bosk, he just seems to have temporarily forgotten he was next to him....
Beriothian -- AC:17/11/22 HP: 152/152 CMD = 19 Tuesday May 17th, 2016 6:58:20 PM
Beri bows before the elfess. Thank you for your help. Please thank him for his kindness when he wakes up and let him know we always are honored when we get to meet with him.
After the meeting and a quick meditation (far less than Torm occasionally partakes in) Beri returns home to share the news with his colleagues... and to let them know that they may have a little time to finish other business before Torm awakes.
Bosk AC: (38/21/33) CMD: (35) hp 98/108 Spells Tuesday May 17th, 2016 8:50:03 PM
Bosk allows Zane to reconnect with his past and takes the time to examine the temple and learn what he can of this fate and its god.
----
When Bosk hears of the invitation to dinner he graciously accepts and sends a message expressing his gratitude, and he knows just what to make. Retrieving some of the Froghemoth legs he collected and his masterwork spice kit, the cleric carefully prepares them and plans a gourmet meal with a side of mashed stingroot (which he also collected) from the Gateway Downs and topped with a Stained Glass Wine reduction from the rarest of the glass grass wines of the now destroyed Sargrass. As he takes out his special utensils, magical and otherwise, the cleric prepares for a feast. With some luck he will be able to obtain some Leviathan Shrimp from Rum for a truly exotic meal, yet one with a few modifications could be made from local ingredients.
Next he pays a visit to Jim Bim to see what new poisons the man has managed to procure, as well as to pay his respects to the family and see how they are getting along. As he goes to see them he places a hand over his third eye, Heather's eye. Jim Bim's sister had plucked it from her own head to serve as her holy symbol, and as the first spirit the Grim Avenger helped to cross over he now wears it as his mark of the Grim Avenger...and now dying and breed of which he is among the last few...and if manages to achieve his own vengeance and put an end to the Lich that killed his father, he will become what is likely to be the last Agent of Vengeance for Jancassis who has all but stopped recruiting adventurers to serve her in such forms.
In fact, he recalls, if he doesn't obtain his vengeance soon he will be unable to rise much farther as her disciple. One level to be precise before she will demand his vengeance.
Garret Goodbarrel [AC:36/32/30; +4 vs AOO HP:134/134 Ki:14/16 CMD: 34 SR: 24] Wednesday May 18th, 2016 8:17:47 AM
Garret takes a seat on the ground in front of the Iron Tower, taking a break and relaxing for the first time in what seems like a very long time. He dozes at times, thinking of far away places and far away people. He wonders about the statue of him and the other adventurers on the continent so far away, wonders what happened to all the others, and thinks of the girl he knew there.
He is awakened by the smell of Bosk's cooking and he heads in to "check on" the cooking and to see if Bosk needs any help tasting anything...
Beriothian -- AC:17/11/22 HP: 152/152 CMD = 19 Wednesday May 18th, 2016 5:52:55 PM Yum, Bosk! Something smells great, what are we having? Beri will check if there is enough extra to snack on while Bosk cooks.
Bosk AC: (38/21/33) CMD: (35) hp 98/108 Spells Wednesday May 18th, 2016 10:32:19 PM
Bosk grins. the creature was 22ft tall and had some humongous legs. He sure hopes there will be extras!
Zane (JCC) AC 33 (34), CMB 16, CMD 32, HP 162/166, Character Wednesday May 18th, 2016 10:34:24 PM
Zane heads with Bosk back to the tower, "That's more definite information in one place than I've found out in years of searching. I have a feeling in my gut that that it's all true too.... You have any feelings on what was said, either true or false?" He'll fill in the others as to what was found out about their quest at the temple as they return to the tower.
Sesha [AC 39 /21 To/29 Fl] | HP 188/93 | CMD 22] Wednesday May 18th, 2016 11:09:21 PM
Sesha stalks out of the tower and towards the Library, where she might find Tink and Restlin.
RobC - Katinka Hushfoot -- AC 25/17/19 -- CMD 21 -- HP 143/143 -- Spells Thursday May 19th, 2016 4:16:15 AM
Tink walks along the many bookshelves in the library, scanning them for anything interesting.
[DM Hugh] - Preparations Thursday May 19th, 2016 7:57:44 AM
Restlin and Katinka travel to the Great Library of Hook City, located in South Hook. This is not a public library, so any visitor is escorted by one of the Librarians. The heroes' stature in the community, boosted even more by the rumors of the Iron Adventurers meeting with the Dragon Consortium, warrant them a senior Librarian and several apprentices. The apprentices aren't note-worthy, and often change out in shifts. The Librarian introduces himself as Robb Soares, a giant of a human with copper skin and once-black hair and horseshoe moustache are now mostly white. Despite his imposing appearance, he is quite talkative, a lively curiosity, and an easy smile that says he is doing his life's passion in and around the stores of knowledge that is the Great Library.
"Fae Skeimir you say? Allegedly the very first home city of the elves before they were sundered into different races? Well, that sounds like First Age right there. Not going to be an easy job. Lots of holes in our knowledge of First Age, and much of what we do have is only stories of stories that were eventually written down from an oral tradition. Still, it will be fun to find out!" Librarian Soares spends the rest of the day with Katinka and Restlin, looking into this room and that. They peruse musty tomes, crackling scrolls, and scraps of pages carefully preserved; all with the softest kidd gloves and in a dim room only lit by magic. "Well, it is closing time and we haven't found anything yet", declares Librarian Soares finally, "but isn't this exciting? Whenever you have time, call for me and we will continue the search!"
It looks like this will take many days...
Zane exchanges historical notes with Marcasthai who confirms that Izibar and he found out about a minotaur babe had been discovered in the wreckage, but not what had happened. "Yet your name, Stormfront, and your appearance remind me so of your father, I knew my quest was at an end." Marcasthai never found anything other than rumors of the Pirates that brought Wanda and the Stormfront to southern waters. It must have been strong evidence to make Wanda chance the Wave that separates the two continents, but it is as if the Pirates were never there. "I need nothing that my lord Imod has not already provided. Good luck in your quest, Zane Stormfront, and the strength of Imod go with you."
Bosk takes a side trip to see JimBim and the Brodery Apothecary. That's not much of a trip since they are just across the street from the marblestone tower the Iron Adventurers call home! The proprietor is happy to see his favorite benefactor, protector, and customer, but laughs easily when Bosk describes the message he received from Garrett from Gat from JimBim. "I knew Gat was gonna mess that up! Sorry Bosk, but you know I don't keep things like that laying around. It makes things difficult with the constablatory, you know? But I have gotten a couple more contacts and feel confident that I could get you nearly any, erm, 'extract' you may wish (See Corebook; Poisons for a list). All at standard price, too!"
.............
That evening, the Iron Adventurers gather for a terrific dinner by Bosk and discuss what they have learned this day. Beri, Restlin, and Katinka seem to have the most promising leads (though they will all take time to impliment). Zane certainly has the most exciting news, though everyone is sure Garrett thinks the feast contest at the Guilded Boar is even more important that news on Fae Skiemir. Sesha's news isn't much at first glance, but it is what Sesha CAN'T see that is most critical to their mission.
The only other thing of note is Bosk discovers Froghemoth Legs taste horrible. Completely indigestible even for Garrett. Nothing the noted minotaur cook can do can save the dish. (Know Dungeoneering DC15 Highlight to display spoiler: {It is most likely that because Froghemoth's are Aberrations, they are incompatible to any digestion of the Noble Races.}
It looks like the next big date is in several days time at the Guilded Boar!
...........
OOC: All heroes are free to meet with their personal agenda, NPCs, train, worship, and go to the Catacombs.
Garret Goodbarrel [AC:36/32/30; +4 vs AOO HP:134/134 Ki:14/16 CMD: 34 SR: 24] Thursday May 19th, 2016 8:32:07 AM
Garret gags on the froghemoth legs. He looks over at Bosk and says, "This? You call this food?" He takes another bite, then spits that one out. "Why would you even make this? I could go outside and just gnaw on a flowerpot." He takes yet another bite and gags again. "I know you can do better than this." He turns the meat over and takes a bite from the other side. "I sure hope this isn't what you are bringing to the feast next week, you will embarrass us all!" Finally he gives up and is quiet as he finds many other bits of food to feast on in preparation for the next feast.
Beriothian -- AC:17/11/22 HP: 152/152 CMD = 19 Thursday May 19th, 2016 7:11:42 PM Bosk... I think you forgot cooking rule number one, always taste the food you are preparing! Actually, this still smells pretty good. Save me a plate, I'll transform into something with a more forgiving digestive track and give it a try later. And maybe we can dry out the rest and make some sort of jerky... we may not be able to eat it, but these legs are big enough to feed an army. You never know when we'll find ourselves in a situation where some starving beasts are looking for a good meal, and tossing them all the wine glazed frog they can eat may be more appealing to them than facing our swords.
Restlin (Carl) -- AC +10/+7/+7 CMD: +15 HP: 116/116 (Spells) Luck Points: 4/14 Thursday May 19th, 2016 8:23:49 PM
If Garret can't eat it, Restlin's not trying. No sir...
He sighs as he realizes he has several days of not much to do. The Mendicant is bored easily. Heck, he just spent an entire day reading stuff in a library. Was...was he expected to do that again tomorrow? No no no, that wouldn't do.
He's got gold. Maybe he can go shopping. He ponders it over a bit...
The Iron Adventurers Seek (DM SteveK) Thursday May 19th, 2016 8:37:32 PM
Two other things happen during the week before the big shindig at the Gilded Boar. The first is the arrival of the Remorhaz trophy. The taxidermist did a terrific job in posing the monster rearing up before bronzing the miniature beast. The heroes can easily imagine being in the battle again!
The second thing is a message from the shop called Sargrass Weavings; Mara Weaver is ill. Her daughters, Bloom, Katz, and Livia are all taking care of the old woman and the shop while their own husbands take care of their families and businesses.
Sesha [AC 39 /21 To/29 Fl] | HP 188/93 | CMD 22] Thursday May 19th, 2016 8:46:24 PM
Sesha hijacks Restlin mid thought.
"Hey. We have time for the first time in awhile.. and well..",she bites her lip. "After Mhalice is stopped, who knows what will happen? Fae Skiemer is really dangerous, and who knows what the Matriarchs will want me to do when I turn Mhalice in to them."
She looks sad, it's obviously weighing on her a bit.
"So I'd like you to take me somewhere fun, anywhere, doing anything. On the way, let me tell you, I have had the -strangest- dreams. In the last one, I tracked down a poor minotaur druid, melted his will, put him to sleep, then polymorphed into a DINOSAUR and stomped his guts out."
RobC - Katinka Hushfoot -- AC 25/17/19 -- CMD 21 -- HP 143/143 -- Spells Thursday May 19th, 2016 10:44:00 PM
Searching for the way to Fae Skiemir will have to wait.
"I'm going to check in on Mara. Does anyone else want to come?" Hopefully it is nothing serious and the woman will be back on her feet soon.
Zane (JCC) AC 33 (34), CMB 16, CMD 32, HP 162/166, Character Thursday May 19th, 2016 11:21:25 PM "I'll go with you, it's been years since I've seen her. It was a couple months before I went out searching if I remember right. Then again, I'm probably messing up my dates, it wouldn't be the first time I did that."
Garret Goodbarrel [AC:36/32/30; +4 vs AOO HP:134/134 Ki:14/16 CMD: 34 SR: 24] Friday May 20th, 2016 8:05:03 AM
Garret burps loudly and says, "I'm in. I bet she just needs a little extra food. Just not frogs legs."
Restlin (Carl) -- AC +10/+7/+7 CMD: +15 HP: 116/116 (Spells) Luck Points: 4/14 Friday May 20th, 2016 10:19:46 AM
Restlin will go to see Mara as well. She's one of their oldest friends & it wouldn't do to ignore her.
***
The Mendicant thinks long and hard at Sesha's request. "Ok. Tomorrow morning, be ready to head out..."
Beriothian -- AC:17/11/22 HP: 152/152 CMD = 19 Friday May 20th, 2016 8:04:03 PM
Beri stands up and stretches his back out. It looks like a lovely time for a stroll. I'm in, what do you say Bosk?
Beriothian -- AC:17/11/22 HP: 152/152 CMD = 19 Friday May 20th, 2016 8:06:50 PM
Posting for Bosk The minotaur grins at Garret. Well, that just depends on what's wrong with Mara. It may not be that great to eat, but maybe whatever illness Mara has will be fought off by the frog legs... then again, perhaps I'll just bring chicken soup.
RobC - Katinka Hushfoot -- AC 25/17/19 -- CMD 21 -- HP 143/143 -- Spells Saturday May 21st, 2016 4:40:39 AM
Along the way, Tink makes a very quick stop at the Catacombs. She wants to pick up some ink to scribe some more spells into her spellbook.
Happenings in Hook City (DM SteveK) Saturday May 21st, 2016 9:32:21 AM
Sesha seems to be correct, the Iron Adventurers seem to have some free time while conducting research and waiting for Torm to end his meditation. Who knows when the next period will be? The witch has been having some bad dreams of late, nothing of a magical or malicious nature, just what one would expect because of the dangerous and stress-filled life coupled with time to have her mind wander.
The whole gang wants to visit Mara Weaver, and Bosk makes a nice batch of chicken noodle soup to bring. Like many craftsmen, Mara lives in a flat above her shop. Livia Weaver is minding Sargrass Weaving this day, and happily shows the team upstairs. There, Livia has the team crowd into the common room and props open the door to Mara's bedroom so they can talk (there is no room in the bedroom for more than one or two medium sized beings). Mara is in good spirits, though often sneezes and coughs (just phlegm) and is easily tired. (DC 15 Heal; appears to be just a common cold)
Bosk notices that he still has the Memory Stones that powered the portal in the Swamp that the Umbral Dragon, Korrine, was using to try and invade the Wold from Jericho Space. They are not cursed, but upon a little investigation, he knows they can't be used for anything else. Potentially powerful, they really need to be kept in a safe place...
At Brodery Apothecary, JimBim quietly takes care of any exotic orders that Bosk cares to make. For Mara, the Brodery family owes several favors to the Weaver family, and the Apothecary provides minor pain and comfort medicines free of charge.
Several of the Iron Adventurers including Bosk, Beri, and Katinka have already visited the Catacombs, and it seems that any of the others have the opportunity this week (especially since there is an outlet right in Iron Tower Square!) http://www.woldiangames.com/Woldipedia/images/5/59/Iron_Tower_Square.png
Sesha gets a group of visitors the day before the Gilded Boar's festivities. Led by a very smug Yzargo, there is Argo the Butcher and Lady Livinia d'Schwanstein with her daughter, Lamantha. Sesha knows Argo very well as he owns and operates the butchery in LaborTown where Sesha has been helping animals transition to the Woldsblood (and gaining power in the process). Lady Livinia she has only seen occasionally, the last time was when Sesha visited the small temple to Jantierri in Hook City. Lamantha is new, a tall and graceful young woman of marriageable age who seems to have both eyes that are dreamy and a spine of steel. It turns out that Yzargo has been busy and that Argo (and his family!), Lady Livinia and Lamantha all want to join Sesha's buddding cult!
Restlin doesn't seem interested in continuing to go to the Great Library day after day.
Inspector Auslander makes his rounds to the Iron Tower. He doesn't have anything significant to report from the Hook City bureaucracy for the Iron Adventurers, so unless they have something for him (since he is their liaison), the visit is just to have a snack and some tea while catching up on their relationship.
Garrett continues to eat far more than a halfling of his physique should be able to eat, but the bouncy hero is like a hummingbird, so full of energy that he burns it off just as quickly.
...............
The night at the Guilded Boar is wonderful. Various contests and games, at least three groups of wandering musicians, and a basket of firecrackers for guests and the children to play with. The Inn is full of food and drink, the houses and courtyard lit by magic to be as bright as day. Everyone from the neighborhood is there along with most of the surrounding neighborhoods. Several Protector groups are about, eyeing rivals but one look from any Iron Adventurer is enough to quell even a thought of making trouble tonight. There are even representatives from some prominent groups in the City; the StarMages Guild, the Temple of Ma'ab and Eberyon, the Guard, and the Treasury.
Several entrants to the cooking contest are represented, including an entire roasted boar presented by the Guilded Boar itself. It is golden and perfect, spiced up with various chiles and actually guilded by edible gold leaf!
Zane (JCC) AC 33 (34), CMB 16, CMD 32, HP 162/166, Character Saturday May 21st, 2016 12:29:50 PM
Zane enjoys the feast, and enjoys even more looking at anyone who seems to be interested in causing trouble. With his hood pulled up as usual, he doesn't even have to stare, just tip his head while looking their direction, because his eyes are in the shadows and he's wearing goggles anyways....
RobC - Katinka Hushfoot -- AC 25/17/19 -- CMD 21 -- HP 143/143 -- Spells d20+9=23 ; d20+6=26 ; Sunday May 22nd, 2016 12:54:42 AM
Tink is glad to see that Mara doesn't appear to be in a terminal condition (Heal: 26). "If you or your family need anything, Mara, you just call for us ok?". She feels a little embarrassed turning up empty handed. She really should have stopped for some flowers on the way.
At the Guilded Boar Tink doesn't settle in for just one meal, rather trying bits and pieces from everything. Even if the food isn't to her liking, she gives the cook a big thumbs up (Bluff: 23). This is one instance where casting Prestidigitation to improve the taste of something would be in poor form.
Garret Goodbarrel [AC:36/32/30; +4 vs AOO HP:134/134 Ki:14/16 CMD: 34 SR: 24] Sunday May 22nd, 2016 2:48:52 PM
Garret takes to the feast and relaxes, not really worried about anything surprising the group during the meal. Besides, he figures, even if someone is dumb enough to attack, the Iron Adventurers are almost always more than ready. He enjoys himself, partaking of some of nearly everything in the room to eat. He mentions that everything he tastes is better than the giant frog's legs. He only briefly wonders about golden poop, then goes on enjoying the festivities.
Restlin (Carl) -- AC +10/+7/+7 CMD: +15 HP: 116/116 (Spells) Luck Points: 4/14 Sunday May 22nd, 2016 9:43:15 PM
Golden boar? There's something you don't get to eat every day. Restlin digs in, dances, eats some more, tells some stories, and generally has an awesome time while wondering what he's going to do tomorrow...
Garret Goodbarrel [AC:36/32/30; +4 vs AOO HP:134/134 Ki:14/16 CMD: 34 SR: 24] Monday May 23rd, 2016 7:45:55 AM
As the festivities continue, Garret stays involved, occasionally showing off with his acrobatic abilities, but nearly always with some sort of food in hand. He is careful with his collectable mug and plate that he brought with him to the celebration, and he explains that the plate has a similar picture to that on the mug because it is often covered up with food and cannot be seen.
Sesha [AC 39 /21 To/29 Fl] | HP 188/93 | CMD 22] Monday May 23rd, 2016 4:32:04 PM
Sesha's drudgy mood over Mhalice and her own imminent future finally melt away to some cheerfulness, and she takes a place to sit with Yzargo, Argo, Lavinia and Lamantha.
"I am glad that my faith in Yzargo's talents was not misplaced. It's been difficult, trying to spread faith among a place whose belief in their own gods is so strict."
She grins.
"But that's what's great about our as of yet unamed coven. I ask none to proclaim their souls to my goddess, only that those who wish to help other fulfill their dreams, and be fulfilled themselves, lend themselves to my cause."
She sips something pink and fizzy from Pot-pot, through a long straw.
"The dedication required is the same as any other serious undertaking. No dreams come easy. Through helping each other to help others, we form a bond. As a Blood-witch, my life is a large nexus of bonds. Bonds to my kin, my heart, and my blood. Now, among them, is my bond to my coven."
She puts down her drink.
"I don't want money or fame. In helping others fulfill their dreams, I do the work of Serenbeth, which I feel is worth doing. This will sometimes put us at odds with those who have done others harm. I am not afraid of this, Serenbeth is the sister of Jancaissis, after all."
"Then my lady Sesha will certainly help me with a particular desire I have been having. You see, ever since I met you I have been thinking about how you would look in a.." ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Sesha cuts the man off with a glare.
"Some irresponsible desires, Yzargo, should be locked in our hearts, and never pass our lips, less it call down the angry wrath of jealous Mage-Priests."
Beriothian -- AC:17/11/22 HP: 152/152 CMD = 19 Monday May 23rd, 2016 5:54:02 PM
Beri picks up a wooden plate and tries a large slice of the guided boar. Mmm, very succulent! And just the right amount of kick as well! Ber tries a little bit of everything, including some horseradish mashed potatoes that pair extremely well with the boar, then finished the meal off with a pint. It's all very delicious, but in the end the boar wins in his opinions.
Bosk AC: (38/21/33) CMD: (35) hp 98/108 Spells d20+4=10 ; d20+4=11 ; d20+4=15 ; d20+4=10 ; Monday May 23rd, 2016 9:42:46 PM
Still disappointed that his froghemoth legs were a bust, Bosk pulls out his masterwork frying pan and master work spices and begins cooking a delicious meal. Wild meats fried in bacon grease while a whole goats turns on an open spit. When it is done the crisp crackling skin drizzles in sauces made of stained glasssgrass wine reduction, and begs to be dipped in spicy concoctions. He pairs it with a wild mushroom soup, bitter greens with tomatoes the size of peas, and mashed stingroot topped with cheese that melts on your tongue and adds unbelievable richness to the dish.
Everything is excellent and elegant, yet the horned cleric feels it is far from his best work. Still, he wouldn't want to outshine the owner's own dish.
(I have been out of down in rural Wisconsin with no internet since Friday. I will let you know about the posion soon.)
Happenings in Hook City (DM SteveK) Monday May 23rd, 2016 9:54:09 PM
Sesha has to slap down her henchman, but any bad feelings probably won't last long. That Y'Zargo is incorrigible!
The night at the Guilded Boar is wonderful, and everyone in the neighborhood has a great time.
And time moves on.
Another Day of Faith comes and goes. Everyone in Hook City takes the stairs to the Bridge. At the right time, they all jump up and down. ONE! TWO! THREE!! And the Hooks hold.
More days come and go until a whole season passes in the perfect weather of Hook City. And then... A message from the Temple of Ma'ab and Eberyon. Torm has awakened and has asked for the Iron Adeventurers!
Restlin (Carl) -- AC +10/+7/+7 CMD: +15 HP: 116/116 (Spells) Luck Points: 4/14 Monday May 23rd, 2016 10:11:00 PM
Last time the Day of Faith came, they were pretty busy, and some strange woman kissed Restlin & upset Sesha, and then Hook City's whole economy got destroyed.
This year, he takes Sesha & shows her the sights. I mean, she lives here now, so she's seen the sights, but he shows her them on the Day of Faith, when everyone's in a good mood and no one's being thrown to their deaths.
...and the Chancer's Club isn't being stupid.
He figures it's the last chance they'll have to be stupid, so he goes out and acts straight up stupid.
The next day, when Torm awakens, he figures fun's over. He gets dressed & gathers his stuff; things like this have a habit of turning into adventures in no time.
Zane (JCC) AC 33 (34), CMB 16, CMD 32, HP 162/166, Character Monday May 23rd, 2016 11:52:45 PM
Zane had only seen the Day of Faith once, when he was on a trip to the city with the monks from the temple. He didn't really understand what was happening then, but now that he's seen more of the Wold he understands it's more than Faith and tradition, it's also a renewal for those who need a boost in their lives. Mainly more self-esteem than physical riches. Zane does stop one kid who was trying to renew his riches, Zane's hand snapped out and clamped on the kid's shoulder, tight enough to hold but not break it. After a shot discussion, Zane spotted an old friend, one of the monks who had been one of his teachers, was at Faith Day, and it looked like it was a supply run. He took the kid over, explained what was going on. The kid ended up going off with the old monk, see, Faith Day working as Zane thought it should. Zane wanders around helping out some of those who need help, and has fun doing so, when the message arrives, he's more than ready to get back into the action....
RobC - Katinka Hushfoot -- AC 25/17/19 -- CMD 21 -- HP 143/143 -- Spells Tuesday May 24th, 2016 3:58:12 AM
Tink is relieved to see that this day of Faith is far less precarious than last years. She reflects on the changes that the city has undergone. The biggest would arguably be its departure from the Chit system. The city was resilient though, and that it managed to overcome the chit disaster and survive for another year could only be attributed to the good, honest people that lived and worked here.
There's something that Tink wants to ask Sesha, but is a little embarrassed about it. The witch obviously has a lot on her mind, but it was now or never. "So, er, I hear your coven is coming along nicely. Do you, er, need any volunteer honorary witches to help?"
Garret Goodbarrel [AC:36/32/30; +4 vs AOO HP:134/134 Ki:14/16 CMD: 34 SR: 24] Tuesday May 24th, 2016 8:22:55 AM
When the next day of faith comes around, Garret is quite nervous. Instead of enjoying the festivities, at least at first, he coordinates with the inspector and ensures the security patrols are all in place. He volunteers to help with security and wanders around watching for trouble for most of the first half of the festival. After the jumping time is complete, he finally relaxes a bit and tells the inspector that he feels much better now that the time has passed. He finds different ways to relax the rest of the day, working on his acrobatics skills to help entertain wherever he can.
Sesha [AC 39 /21 To/29 Fl] | HP 188/93 | CMD 22] Tuesday May 24th, 2016 3:04:21 PM
Sesha tries to chatter happily with Restlin. There are times when she has more success, but the longer the day wears, the closer they are to encountering Fae Skeimer, the land that sundered her people.
When Tink finds her, Sesha answers honestly. "I always need more help, Tink. You would bring a mind that none of my current Witches, or I, posses. Book learning was never something the barbarians, or the Drow, stressed."
She pauses.
"I would be pleased for you to be part of the coven. It's still young, but will grow. I am not yet strong enough to permanently bind you as a witch, though I can continue to do so each morning, as we did when on the road."
Beriothian -- AC:17/11/22 HP: 152/152 CMD = 19 Tuesday May 24th, 2016 5:43:32 PM
Beri wakes up, goes to the kitchen, and puts the percolator on the stove. His eggs and bacon are just about finished when that beautiful half popping, half hissing sound hits his ear telling him his coffee is ready. He is just sitting down to eat when there is a knock at the door. Torm has awakened!
While he waits for the others to wake up and get ready Beri finishes his breakfast. He figures it's been about 250 cups of coffee since that day at the temple, and perhaps 300 slices of bacon later. Beri considers bringing Torm some coffee, but decides Torm isn't about to sleep any time soon.
The others drift down the stairs one by one... he intended to tell them the news once everyone has gathered, but ends up blurting it out in excitement as soon as the first adventurer has set foot in the kitchen.
Torm (DM SteveK) Tuesday May 24th, 2016 7:37:29 PM
The Day of Faith seems to have the desired effect on the Iron Adventurers as well as the city. Zane made a good start on turning around a young ruffian. Garrett is able to relax after making several patrols with the guards and Inspector Auslander. Katinka and Sesha have a meeting of the minds. And Restlin has a good, good time!
The day that the message arrives, the Iron Adventurers are all but chivvied to the Temple of Ma'ab and Eberyon. Beyond the tall stone walls, the temple opens out to grottos of forest, plains, swamp, and desert. In more grottoes are fresh water, salt water, and a rock kopje.
It is in the grotto of grass plains where the ancient tortoise that is the Awakened High Priest. "Greetings" he says. "Young ones." He finishes after a time.
Zane (JCC) AC 33 (34), CMB 16, CMD 32, HP 162/166, Character Tuesday May 24th, 2016 8:07:15 PM
Zane respectfully says, " 'Morning Torm, I hope all is well."
Bosk AC: (38/21/33) CMD: (35) hp 98/108 Spells Tuesday May 24th, 2016 10:54:26 PM
Bosk bows deeply. It is a pleasure to see you again. I hope all is well.
RobC - Katinka Hushfoot -- AC 25/17/19 -- CMD 21 -- HP 143/143 -- Spells Wednesday May 25th, 2016 1:27:44 AM
Tink has never had the pleasure of meeting Torm before. Obviously the others have made his acquaintance at some stage. She smiles and nods to him in greeting, waiting to see what he might have in store for them.
Garret Goodbarrel [AC:36/32/30; +4 vs AOO HP:134/134 Ki:14/16 CMD: 34 SR: 24] Wednesday May 25th, 2016 8:04:03 AM
Garret looks around as he arrives to visit Torm. "Hello again Torm, it is good to see you." He bounces around a bit, trying not to look impatient as the slow tortoise speaks.
Restlin smiles & finds someplace comfortable to sit. He's interested in what Torm has to say, but figures he'll be standing a lot in the coming days.
Beriothian -- AC:17/11/22 HP: 152/152 CMD = 19 Wednesday May 25th, 2016 7:06:08 PM
Beri bows before the high priest. Good to see you again Master Torm, I do hope that your meditation went well. Did you experience anything interesting during that time, or was your meditation more about inner peace? Beri thinks a moment then adds: We received your message from the Elfess, it appears you knew our needs before we did. We are most grateful for the opportunity to meet with you about this.
Torm (DM SteveK) Wednesday May 25th, 2016 9:36:02 PM
Garrett is his usual bouncy self and Restlin rolls his eyes when he remembers how long it takes to talk to the tortoise. It's always insightful and amazing advice; but it takes so long to get it!
Katinka did not join the Iron Adventurers until after the banquet in the Temple and so has not seen the Awakened Tortoise. Torm inclines his head towards the little halfling. "Greetings from...me and the one...I serve to you... Katinka Hushfoot...and the...one whom you...serve. We look... Forward to...Justice..with antici... ... ... pation."
It is a comfortable if long meeting with Torm. Refreshing drinks are served to the heroes as Torm asks to hear all of the stories of the Iron Adventurers since they first met the Dragon Consortium. When that is done, Torm asks for the story of the first time the team combatted Mhalice.
And then he nods sagely. "And where...is this...key? If you...wish...to go to...Fae Skiemir...you need the...blessing...of Ma'ab."
Zane (JCC) AC 33 (34), CMB 16, CMD 32, HP 162/166, Character Wednesday May 25th, 2016 9:46:54 PM
Zane, after the long meeting, looks around. He knows that asking for Ma'ab's blessing is way beyond him, since he worships Imod. He lets the others do their things figuring the group would get the blessing eventually.....
RobC - Katinka Hushfoot -- AC 25/17/19 -- CMD 21 -- HP 143/143 -- Spells Wednesday May 25th, 2016 11:19:51 PM
Tink smiles broadly, immediately liking Torm and his unusual speech. She takes the golden key from her kit and places it on the table for all to see.
Sesha [AC 39 /21 To/29 Fl] | HP 188/93 | CMD 22] Wednesday May 25th, 2016 11:37:08 PM
Sesha is willing to show to wait as long as Torm needs her to. She keeps running through the things she might need to combat Mhalice in her head.
Her rings would help, shutting down dispel magics would be useful. Her scroll of spell immunity too, might come in handy. She just felt like she needed more preparations.
Bosk AC: (38/21/33) CMD: (35) hp 98/108 Spells Thursday May 26th, 2016 12:18:42 AM
Bosk tries to recall what he can of Ma'ab, and if they need the blessing hi Ma'ab directly or if Tom can extend that blessing on the god's behalf.
Garret Goodbarrel [AC:36/32/30; +4 vs AOO HP:134/134 Ki:14/16 CMD: 34 SR: 24] Thursday May 26th, 2016 7:53:51 AM
Garret walks around a lot during the long conversation, trying to keep himself from falling asleep. He explores some of the grass and plants that are sure to be wherever the high druid might be. He takes some peeks at some of the mold and things growing on the massive tortoise shell, trying to be discrete about it, but probably failing more often than not. When the drinks appear, he quickly helps himself to them and he helps pass them out. Then he finds an ant and follows it across the grass.
Restlin (Carl) -- AC +10/+7/+7 CMD: +15 HP: 116/116 (Spells) Luck Points: 4/14 d20+12=31 ; Thursday May 26th, 2016 9:30:05 AM
Restlin is, obviously, more than happy to tell Torm all about their adventures. He pulls out his minor image wand, creating illusions of Korrine, the golden sphere from Jericho space, Mhalice, and anything else he deems important.
He does give a more abridged version of the stories since Torm's taking up so much time being Torm anyway. In doing so, he realizes that all the fluff really doesn't add much to the story. He thinks this may be his best retelling of their adventures yet! (Storytelling: 31)
Beriothian -- AC:17/11/22 HP: 152/152 CMD = 19 Thursday May 26th, 2016 4:54:49 PM
Beri listens to Restlin retell the story in a much more entertaining fashion then he would ever be capable. Well, that's pretty much how it happened. And this is the key Beri waves his arm in the direction of the key We aren't quite certain on how or where to use it yet, though if we need Ma'ab's blessing first I'm glad we didn't set out as soon as we picked this up!
Torm and the Key (DM SteveK) Thursday May 26th, 2016 7:46:57 PM
"The Key...is...the key to...one...of the...Gates...to the Valleys of... ... ...Twilight.
Torm gathers the Key close to his eyes by use of a Hand of the Mage amulet. And then he breathes on the Key, his breath coming out like a rainbow of sparkles. It settles on the Key and the gold now looks like it is made of crystal.
"Ma'ab blesses...your en...devor. When...you...gather around the...Key, it will...teleport...you to the...nearest... Gate entrance. It will... Also work when...you find place...the Key...in the lock."
Through further explanation, it looks like the Iron Adventurers now have the approval of Ma'ab and the means to not only get to the Gate to the Valleys of Twilight but to get through it as well!
Bosk AC: (38/21/33) CMD: (35) hp 98/108 Spells Thursday May 26th, 2016 10:16:22 PM
Bosk stares with amazement as Tom breaths out a rainbow! Briefly he wonders if the lock is a real lock or a metaphorical lock with some puzzle behind it.
Zane (JCC) AC 33 (34), CMB 16, CMD 32, HP 162/166, Character Thursday May 26th, 2016 11:11:32 PM
Right about now, Zane is happy that he travels light, He bows to Torm, [b]"Thank you"[b] He lets the group know he's ready whenever they are, by standing up, and shifting his pack and quiver, settling them in for travel.
RobC - Katinka Hushfoot -- AC 25/17/19 -- CMD 21 -- HP 143/143 -- Spells Thursday May 26th, 2016 11:23:18 PM
Tink dwells on the meaning of the key for a moment "Why would Mhalice send this key to us if it would lead us directly to her? Does she think herself unstoppable? Is she taunting us? I don't know enough about her to answer those questions"
"Before we depart again let me leave word with Inspector Auslander so that he knows we are leaving"
Restlin (Carl) -- AC +10/+7/+7 CMD: +15 HP: 116/116 (Spells) Luck Points: 4/14 Friday May 27th, 2016 8:02:38 AM
"Mhalice thinks very highly of herself. I imagine she does consider herself unbeatable." Restlin's also ready to go whenever.
Garret Goodbarrel [AC:36/32/30; +4 vs AOO HP:134/134 Ki:14/16 CMD: 34 SR: 24] Friday May 27th, 2016 11:28:06 AM
Garret's attention is quickly drawn to the rainbow breath and the magical key. He starts to reach out to grab it when Tink questions the motives. He yanks his hand back and nods, saying, "That doesn't seem right, does it? A free key? That sounds like a serious trap, right there."
Zane (JCC) AC 33 (34), CMB 16, CMD 32, HP 162/166, Character Friday May 27th, 2016 12:28:22 PM "The question here is, Did she attach the key for us to find or did Fae Skiemir send it because it's been invaded and can't evict her without help? I don't know how we'd find out which is the answer, but as another 'Taur once said, "It's not a trap if you know about it before hand". (Quote credited to Malgant)
Beriothian -- AC:17/11/22 HP: 152/152 CMD = 19 Friday May 27th, 2016 4:55:07 PM Well, even if she's waiting for us we are still the ones with Ma'ab's blessing. Thank you Torm. And by any chance do you know what dangers we can expect waiting for us as far as existing traps Mhalice may plan to use against us, or specific elemental attacks the locals are fond of using?
Sesha [AC 39 /21 To/29 Fl] | HP 188/93 | CMD 22] Saturday May 28th, 2016 2:32:52 AM
Sesha quietly fingers a gem she claimed from the Remorrhaz. It was warm to the touch, and somewhat comforting.
"Just one more things Mhalice can't counterspell."
Looking back at the others, it seemed they were almost ready to go. Torm must have been finishing up. She considered anything else she would need, and had only one idea. She whips out her broom and thanks Torm.
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