Matthew S. Co-DM - Day 02 to Day 09 Monday May 29th, 2017 9:19:14 PM Sable says, “We set to Adventure.” Kiwina adds, "The long leg of the trip being from Liontaur to Minotaur Island, Minotaur Island seems to be the place to go while we are sure of a fast ship." He recites from memory, "Strong horns, purple keep, dungeon garden." He can dig out the scroll if anyone wants to read it. "Does anyone know of a purple keep on Minotaur Island? Doesn't seem that would be easy to miss." Rolth encourages Finnian and agrees with Kiwana to head to Minotaur Isle. "Aye, my companions both have the right of it, we seek adventure first at the purple keep on Minotaur Isle." “Dinner,” Highlight to display spoiler: { Rolth recalls something about a meal.. No not a meal but a feast by the Purple Duke.} Gothruk asks if there is anything he can do. The bosun appears and slaps Gothruk gently on the back. “Head this way,” he says and leads him below. “Do you know how to sew?” Finnian is becoming more comfortable and wonders about the length of the trip. Tsak Rezar asks a half orc stepping past. “Ai, there is a storage shed on the starboard side. It’s red, you can’t miss it,” he says. Falco listened and then spoke to the group, "Before we left I found a bard to try and gather information. Her stories of the last contest were not encouraging. Lost limbs and starving questers but there was one bit. She heard the poems and was convinced that the first two lines are general location and the last gives the exact spot. As we travel we should keep that in mind I think." -- Captain Parson’s smiles, “Ah, Minotaur Isle.. a purple keep.. I’m not sure about purple but I know of a Castle Violet. Bucky, you think we can make eight days?” The half elf looks up at the sky and does some mental calculations. “Ah sir, if the winds are in our favor but that’s never guaranteed near the Shoals.” “Captain, are we heading to Minotaur Isle? I believe so Bucky set the sails toward the shores of Minotaur Isle.”
Early in the morning of Day Nine of the Rose Quest, the Merry Mermaid docks at Castle Violet on Minotaur Island.
Rolth Niheow (BatMark) (16/16 HP | AC: 14; Touch: 11; Flat: 12; CMD: 17) | Glaive +3 1d10+4 x3 | Paws (2) +1 1d4+1 x2| Status: None Monday May 29th, 2017 9:33:28 PM
Rolth exclaims, "Castle Violet, of course that must be it, thank you Captain! Does Castle Violet have anything to do with the feast by the Purple Duke? I can only recall the sketchiest details of that tale, but maybe the similarity of color means they are connected." While waiting for an answer, whether from the Captain or anyone else on board, he thinks about what the Captain has just said to Bucky. To himself, he muses, "Eight days to Minotaur Isle? That is...interesting." But not wanting to seem like a backwards, inland type, he for once holds his peace.
[OOC, do we know what race Capt. Parsons appears to be? I can't find it in my notes.]
Cayzle OOC: Parsons is a human.
Tsak Rezar (Damien) AC15 (T13/F12) 12/12 HP| Falchion +4 2D4+3|Status: None Tuesday May 30th, 2017 5:20:44 AM
Wow, thinks Tsak to himself, things are really happening fast! Perhaps I shouldn't have drunk so much of the Captain's Mead...
Assuming there may be other competitors already here he decides the best place to plan is aboard the Mermaid. My best guess at our next move is to make ourselves known at the keep, what does everyone else think
Kiwina (Steve M) (16/16 HP | AC:14; Touch:11; Flat:12; CMD:15) | Status: None Tuesday May 30th, 2017 7:12:48 AM
"To the keep, and the dungeon garden. And as we may be ahead of most competitors, they're going to think we're daft." Kiwina says.
Falco Ambersier (Ryan M) (7/7 HP | AC: 13; Touch: 13; Flat: 11; CMD: 12) | 7/7 Acid Dart | Lt Crossbow +3 1d6 x2 | Status: None d20+8=16 ; d20+8=15 ; Tuesday May 30th, 2017 7:19:01 AM "This is quite exciting, the first leg of our journey underway and a good ship to carry us. I agreed, heading to the keep makes the most sense. I will ask around while we travel about a Dungeon Garden and if there is any news of the other contestants."
[ooc: Rolls for if we head directly off ship ] [Know Local: 16] - Dungeon Garden [Know Local: 15] - Other Contestents
Finnian (Zeke) (HP:11/11; AC: 16; Touch: 13; Flat: 13; CMD: 17) d20+4=21 ; d20+4=13 ; Tuesday May 30th, 2017 8:21:13 AM
The time aboard the ship is not quite as bad as Finnian expected. After the first couple of hours he began to get used to the swaying and his stomach was no longer doing flips. He even managed to admire the beauty of the sea, with it's deep blues and shimmering glare from the sun. After a time he settled in with his tools working on a new bow stave, this one out of a much thicker board. He would have began with this bow but seeing as it was his first attempt at making one of his own, was unsure that he could handle something of this strength. While he sat shaving off pieces of wood to form the tip, he thought of the Dungeon Garden and what types of plants, or beasts, may roam there.
[Know Nature: 21] [Know Dungeneering: 13]
[OOC: I have the money for the components of the new bow, so I figured I would get started on this trip, even though I might not finish if that is okay]
Sable (Don) (15/15 HP | AC: 15/17; Touch: 11; Flat: 13/15; CMD: 18) | Status: Stern d20+6=13 ; Tuesday May 30th, 2017 6:51:39 PM
Sable puts away his bill hook, stows his net, and prepares to leave his post as Safety Monitor. He breathes in the fresh air of his homeland and scans the horizon (Perception = 13/15)
Matthew S. Co-DM - Day 09 - Morning d20=4 ; d20=12 ; Tuesday May 30th, 2017 8:25:36 PM Rolth muses silently, "Eight days to Minotaur Isle? That is...interesting."
In fact, it is an indication of the skill of the Captain. The trip to Minotaur Isle was fraught with nothing unusual. It was actually a bit boring this time around. The problems many sailors seem to have around the Shoals do not affect the Merry Mermaid. That’s because the captain kept the ship well south of the Shoals. Your route sent you well south of the Shoals, which saved you a bit of time. Such a route, however, requires truly excellent navigation considering that there are no landmarks on the open sea. Most ships sail within site of the Shoals so as not to get lost. Captain Parsons took the straight route and saved time.
Rolth exclaims, "Castle Violet, of course that must be it, thank you Captain! Does Castle Violet have anything to do with the feast by the Purple Duke? I can only recall the sketchiest details of that tale, but maybe the similarity of color means they are connected." Captain Parsons smiles, “Oh, you have not had a meal till you had a feast with the Purple Duke. You have to try his table if you get the chance. Last time the Merry Mermaid set ashore outside the Castle Violet, we feasted for a week.”
Hearing of a delicious feast, your tummies may well be set a-rumbling. There was one incident on the voyage, but it was a minor one -- the cook fell from the side of the boat. The other boatmen scrambled to recover the man and did it in record time but, unfortunately, as the chef recovered, your meals went from full and tasty to bland and skimpy. You are all pretty hungry when the Merry Mermaid touches the docks in front of the Castle Violet.
Tsak Rezar regrets drinking too much but adds, “My best guess at our next move is to make ourselves known at the keep, what does everyone else think?”
Kiwina says, "To the keep, and the dungeon garden. And as we may be ahead of most competitors, they're going to think we're daft."
Falco says, “This is quite exciting, the first leg of our journey underway and a good ship to carry us. I agreed, heading to the keep makes the most sense. I will ask around while we travel about a Dungeon Garden and if there is any news of the other contestants."
Finnian is not having a terrible time aboard the ship and finds himself admiring the sea a bit. He finishes a new bow stave and thinks about the adventure ahead. [OOC: Cayzle’s personal treatment of mundane crafting is that any item with a value under 1,000 gp can be crafted in a day’s labor.]
Sable puts everything away and takes in a breath. Home is a wonderful place to be. The horizon is bright in the early morning on the 9th day.
Outside of the Merry Mermaid you notice minotaurs loading and unloading ships. This is clearly a busy port. You also notice a pink ship, which is a highly unusual color for a ship. It’s definitely an attention getter. A group of liontaurs -- NOT the Wrestling Wemics -- steps off the gangplank. It seems that you two are the only questing groups at the docks.
The town is a busy merchant town. Lots of goods travel in and out. The town is prosperous -- not only is it a chief route to the capital (Imod City, in the interior), but it is on the far side of Minotaur Island, far away from the Centaurs, and so has escaped most of the ravages of war.
The Castle sits above the town, on a hill. If you saw the vision in the illusionary rose at the opening ceremony, it looked very much like that. It’s a bit of a trek on empty stomachs but Captain Parsons assures you that within the Purple Duke will have enough to feed several armies. Once, you do arrive at the large wooden doors of the castle you notice it is propped open ... strange for a castle, but inside you get a feel for the party atmosphere.
The all-liontaur group walks with you through the town to the castle with you. They are cold and silent, and you overhear a whisper of “Don’t talk to them! Don’t give them any edge!”
In the vestibule, you are greeted by a huge stout minotaur who towers above his retinue of courtiers. He is clad in purple robes, and bedecked with all manner of rings and jewelry. He laughs with honest delight, and his voice rolls down the hill toward town.
”Welcome! Welcome! Hero questers! I am the Purple Duke of Castle Violet! You are all most welcome!”
He holds out his hands in greeting, and his face lights up with pleasure at seeing you.
”A Rose Quest! What excitement! I thought you might come my way, and here you are! This is wonderful! Please, you may be salty with the spray of your voyage. Please enter, be welcome, use the baths! Here are rooms for you! Come to my luncheon and tell me all about it! And this evening, we will feast, and there will be magical gifts!”
He pauses, eager to hear your introduction.
After hellos, two courtiers bow before each group, yours and the liontaurs, and ask you to follow them to your rooms and the baths. The other group hesitates, and the leader watches you closely.
Rolth Niheow (BatMark) (16/16 HP | AC: 14; Touch: 11; Flat: 12; CMD: 17) | Glaive +3 1d10+4 x3 | Paws (2) +1 1d4+1 x2| Status: None d20+2=4 ; Tuesday May 30th, 2017 9:38:35 PM
Rolth sketches a bow to the Duke and introduces the party, "We are the Eight-Petaled Rose, and would be delighted to accept your generous offer of a bath and victuals." He pauses there, and gestures in encouragement to the liontaur party, leaving them an opening to introduce themselves. If they do not, he gently chides them in liontaur, "Don't act like cubs, show our host some proper liontaur manners."
Introductions completed, Rolth will nod acceptance of the courtier's offer to lead us to the room and baths. Only if the two parties are led to separate areas, he will question our guide about this magnificent keep, trying to gently and indirectly lead the conversation towards the layout of the place and the location of its dungeon. "How high and mighty it is! It must be set in strong stone to rise so high. How high and deep does this wondrous castle go?" (Diplomacy or Bluff = 4, they must not like liontaurs)
If we are eventually left alone, or allowed to gather after a bath and before lunch, Rolth suggests that we compare notes about what we each learned from the guide, and then join the luncheon before seeking a chance to explore the castle in the afternoon.
Kiwina (Steve M) (16/16 HP | AC:14; Touch:11; Flat:12; CMD:15) | Status: None d20+7=26 ; d20+3=21 ; d20=11 ; Tuesday May 30th, 2017 9:45:23 PM
Being accustomed to navigating without landmarks, Kiwina does not understand why the Mermaid's progress impresses the others. Yes, she's a fast ship, but . . .
As the parties travel through town and to the castle, Kiwina looks over the competition carefully. In particular, he observes how they are armed and armored, and tries to guess their profession(s). (Perception roll to identify professions/experience = 26)
When the party arrives at the castle, Kiwina tries to get a sense of how sincere the host is, but also how tolerant he seems to be (sense motive roll = 21).
"You recognize us as questers!," Kiwina greets the host. "I'm Kiwina. If you thought we might come your way, is there a tale to tell? Daring deeds from the past, perhaps." Kiwina is not strong on diplomacy, but tries to assist Rolth in any attempts he makes at it. (Diplomacy to assist = 11) He is willing to bathe or eat if either comes with a chance to ask questions -- of the duke or his staff -- and also has no issue being away from the rival team.
Tsak Rezar (Damien) AC15 (T13/F12) 12/12 HP| Falchion +4 2D4+3|Status: None d20+5=16 ; d20+5=13 ; Wednesday May 31st, 2017 5:21:52 AM
Tsak stands in awe of the keep and the generous offer of bathing facilities, a room and 2 square meals. This is a world away from the deprivation and adversity he expected from the life of an adventurer.
He first focuses his attention on the Purple Duke (Perception = 16), then the other party (Perception = 13) to see what insights he can glean from their appearance and mannerisms.
Sable (Don) (15/15 HP | AC: 15/17; Touch: 11; Flat: 13/15; CMD: 18) | Status: Stern d20+6=8 ; d20+1=12 ; Wednesday May 31st, 2017 6:22:08 AM
Given that the other party is made up of Wemics, Sable scans the team to see if one of them matches the description of the female that he is seeking (Perception - 10 (includes +2 since they are Tauric)).
He then bows his head to the Duke, and says, "It would be rude to refuse a sovereign's hospitality -- I am honored to share your table and have a chance to remove the rime from my hide." (A slight bluff focused on the other team - Bluff - 12).
Falco Ambersier (Ryan M) (7/7 HP | AC: 13; Touch: 13; Flat: 11; CMD: 12) | 7/7 Acid Dart | Lt Crossbow +3 1d6 x2 | Status: None Wednesday May 31st, 2017 8:20:08 AM
Falco is happy to let Rolth make the initial introductions for the party thinking I continue to be glad I joined in the quest. I am sure there will be much to learn.
When there is an opening he bows to the duke "You hospitality is most appreciated. If there is anything we can do to be of service do not hesitate. Also, if there is a lore keeper about I would not mind a word with them."
Finnian (Zeke) (HP:11/11; AC: 16; Touch: 13; Flat: 13; CMD: 17) Wednesday May 31st, 2017 12:15:06 PM
Finnian makes a slight bow and perks up at the minetion of lunch. Be is accustomed to going days on small rations, and certainly doesn't eat as much as his Taur companions, but ndver the less his stomach is hungry. And a bath, how long has it been? Too long. "your hospitality is appreciated, we will see you for lunch." Finnian adds with a slight smile and a nod.
Matthew S. Co-DM - Day 09 - Mid-Morning d20=2 ; d20=12 ; d20=2 ; Wednesday May 31st, 2017 8:09:31 PM Rolth says after a bow, "We are the Eight-Petaled Rose, and would be delighted to accept your generous offer of a bath and victuals."
Kiwina sees that the Liontaur group seems to be lightly armored. Weapons, not so much.. a bit heavier with some large Masterwork axes, broadswords and one bowman with a heavy crossbow. They seem confident that they can defeat anything with a little brutality and athletic prowess. They are a young group but the leader, a large blond liontaur, has several war scars and seems to have a good sense to him.
The liontaur group is largely indifferent to the Eight-Petal Rose. They clearly regard you as rivals. Rolth’s scolding inspires some very quiet growling, but they do not break the peace and they also follow through and offer introductions, privately, to the Duke. Perception vs DC 12 Highlight to display spoiler: { You are able to overhear the group as they make their introductions. They say they are Tovalt’s Crew. They accept the meal and the bath but advise the kind Duke that they will not be staying. } After speaking softly with the Lord Duke, the other team leaves. The Duke murmurs, “A shame, so rude.”
Tsak Rezar stands in awe of the keep and the prospect of gifts. He focuses on the Duke, in his purple brilliance. That smile, so warm. As for the Duke, his smile hides a number of possible scenarios. He seems genuinely happy to see you but is there more that his smile is hiding” You might wonder how anyone can be so happy to see a stranger.
The Duke, though, seems oblivious. “Yes, questers. It’s the taurnament after all. News travels fast around these parts. Of course you are questers. Let’s see who I can drum up to help you to your rooms. You will be staying the night? We have festivities all day and all night.” “You know, we have a bard band, called “Some Direction.” They are playing this evening. They are all the rage. I tell you ... It took me two years to talk them into an extended stay.”
Sable says, "It would be rude to refuse a sovereign's hospitality -- I am honored to share your table and have a chance to remove the rime from my hide."
Falco adds, "You hospitality is most appreciated. If there is anything we can do to be of service do not hesitate. Also, if there is a lore keeper about I would not mind a word with them."
The Duke reaches down to offer Falco a friendly hand. “Young one, you have done me a great service by showing up at my keep.”
“A lore keeper,” he says then repeats. “I have a whole room of lore keepers. I’ll ask my best to come to dinner with us.”
Finnian smiles with the mention of lunch and adds his appreciation.
“So wash up and join me at your leisure! It’s your choice. Don’t let me stop you from enjoying yourself. We have ale, liquor, and other pleasures. A library, a chapel, a training yard, All you could desire.”
[OOC: Please post your actions (and questions for sages), and if no one objects, tomorrow’s post will cover lunch, dinner, the entertainment, the sages, and the giving of the gifts.]
Rolth Niheow (BatMark) (16/16 HP | AC: 14; Touch: 11; Flat: 12; CMD: 17) | Glaive +3 1d10+4 x3 | Paws (2) +1 1d4+1 x2| Status: None d20+7=24 ; Wednesday May 31st, 2017 9:00:08 PM
Rolth is annoyed with the whispering of the other liontaur party, and perks his leonine ears up, catching their name, Tovalt's Crew and their disinclination to stay beyond a meal and bath, which he will relay to the Petals once we are away. (Perception = 24 to overhear them)
Otherwise, he wants to stick to his original idea. Rolth will nod acceptance of the courtier's offer to lead us to the room and baths. If the two parties are led to separate areas, he will question our guide about this magnificent keep, trying to lead the conversation towards the layout of the place and the location of its dungeon. "How high and mighty it is! It must be set in strong stone to rise so high. How high and deep does this wondrous castle go?" If we are eventually left alone, or allowed to gather after a bath and before lunch, Rolth suggests that we compare notes about what we each learned from the guide, and then join the luncheon before seeking a chance to explore the castle in the afternoon. In the latter case, he proposes to his comrades a straightforward walkabout, rather than any skulking.
He supposes that our decision whether to attend dinner will depend upon what we find when scouting around. He does express a private concern to the party that the dinners sound like they are very long-lasting. Captain Parsons mentioned feasting for a week and "Some Direction" got talked into an extended stay as well. This would not bode well for us completing a lengthy quest...
Gothruk Gore (Logan) AC 12 (T11/F10) 12/12HP |Guisarme +3 2D6+4| Status: None Wednesday May 31st, 2017 9:30:56 PM
At sea Gothruk will offer his newly purchased spices around if it would help eleiviate the blandness of the meals.
Inside the castle Gothruk will introduce himself to the king good naturedly. My name is Gothruk Gore, it's an honour to meet a king, especially such a generous one. I will gladly accept your hospitality though there is a matter of urgency to our visit. It would be unforgivably rude not to dine with anyone who welcomed us so warmly.
Gothruk's pretty excited, and perhaps not as suspicious of things as he should be.
Kiwina (Steve M) (16/16 HP | AC:14; Touch:11; Flat:12; CMD:15) | Status: None d20+7=24 ; Wednesday May 31st, 2017 11:28:29 PM
Kiwina follows the servants leading the party to their room(s). If the two parties are separated, he listens closely to any hints the servants drop in response to the questions the others ask; he also asks questions about the history of the castle. If he is separated from the others for a room or bath, he makes sure he knows when and where they want to join back up -- presumably right after the bath in order to attend the luncheon.
At lunch Kiwina eats well, but quickly, eager to begin exploring those areas of the keep they are allowed to explore, and seeing what he can of areas they are not allowed to enter. This exploration is to try to identify areas that seem most likely potential "dungeon gardens." (Perception roll to search = 24)
When it is time for the evening festivities to begin, Kiwina will follow the lead of the others. If exploration has uncovered nothing it is probably best to attend dinner and listen to Falco talk with the sages. If a likely dungeon garden has been found, it may be better to skip the meal.
Sable (Don) (15/15 HP | AC: 15/17; Touch: 11; Flat: 13/15; CMD: 18) | Status: Stern d20+4=14 ; Thursday June 1st, 2017 1:03:54 AM
Sable, banking on his earlier success concerning rose bush growing habits knows that roses enjoy the sunlight. They would likely appear within a location that is warm and has a lot of sun. He relays this to the group, quietly. Combining Kiwana's perception with his natural knowledge, he hopes to help narrow down the area to search. (Knowledge Nature = 14)
Tsak Rezar (Damien) AC15 (T13/F12) 12/12 HP| Falchion +4 2D4+3|Status: None d20+5=25 ; Thursday June 1st, 2017 8:05:13 AM
(Perception roll for spoiler = 25) Tsak hasn't heard a lot of bard bands and wonders what kind of music he will have to endure should the group end up at the feast. If it's anything like the Dwarf group D'rammstein that his shipmates were so fond of when he was growing up he might have to give it a miss.
Tsak makes sure he knows when and where the group is meeting for lunch, as he wants to wash up and then visit the library. He will question any who help them about the location of both the library and also any flower gardens in the environs of the keep.
At the table for lunch he'll be on his best behavior.
If we split up to go exploring I suggest we stay in groups of no smaller than 3.
Falco Ambersier (Ryan M) (7/7 HP | AC: 13; Touch: 13; Flat: 11; CMD: 12) | 7/7 Acid Dart | Lt Crossbow +3 1d6 x2 | Status: None d20+8=20 ; Thursday June 1st, 2017 11:33:44 AM “You are too kind and gracious. The opportunity to speak to a lore-keeper is appreciated.”
Listening intently Flaco finds his mind wanders when the promise of a lore-master and a library are dangled in front of him. In his mind he goes over key things that he would like to find out from the lore-keeper before dinner and then decides to put the key question in the middle in case others investigate what he is asking about.
1 - Does the quest for the rose bring people here every 100 years? 2 - How have past teams faired on this leg, pitfalls? 3 - Would the term "dungeon garden" have any meaning to this area, is it a place we could be directed to? 4 - Any books on past quests in the library? I would love to read one.
If there is time Falco also stops by the library to look for any information on the quest. [Know Local: 20]
[ooc: I am assuming you do not want rolls for the questions of the sage, if you do let me know]
Gothruk Gore (Logan) AC 12 (T11/F10) 12/12HP |Guisarme +3 2D6+4| Status: None Thursday June 1st, 2017 11:44:26 AM
OOC: Sorry my phone seems to be playing up, I posted my previous comment a while ago.
Finnian (Zeke) (HP:11/11; AC: 16; Touch: 13; Flat: 13; CMD: 17) d20+7=25 ; d20+6=11 ; d20=6 ; Thursday June 1st, 2017 12:28:06 PM
Finnian heads to the room that they told him to go to and takes the quickest of baths. Although the water is refreshing he knows that there are other matters to attend to.
If an opportunity presents itself Finnian will sneak off and use his stealth to investigate the castle by himself. [Stealth=24, I didn't factor in ACP in that roll] [OOC: This could happen either before lunch or after Lunch before dinner] [Perception=11 to find any secretes]
He stows his partially made bow in his room but as he travels around the castle he always carries his finished bow and a half quiver of arrows.
If he is caught Finnian will claim, unconvincingly, that he just got lost [bluff=6]
Gothruk Gore (Logan) AC 12 (T11/F10) 12/12HP |Guisarme +3 2D6+4| Status: None d20+5=15 ; Thursday June 1st, 2017 12:35:09 PM
OOC: On the 30th Perception check (1D20+5=15)
Gothruk would be interested in the training yards, after he cleans himself up he'll probably go have a look out of his own interest. Any new or previously unencountered ways of training ones body and mind would excite him and he would ask a lot of questions until he was able to duplicate them.
After lunch Gothruk will stick with Kiwina, also searching through the castle.
Rose Quest Day 09, Afternoon to Late Evening (Co-DM Cayzle) Thursday June 1st, 2017 7:58:51 PM Rolth is annoyed with the other group -- but they are in turn annoyed that the Petals are so hot on their heels.
Why so few people? Because not everybody figured out where to go, and because some went to other locations, and because the Merry Mermaid is a pretty darn fast ship. Sense Motive vs DC 10 Highlight to display spoiler: { The Duke is pleased as punch to see you two groups arrive, the first to arrive, and he clearly is looking forward to more.}.
“More questers will arrive in time,” he says. “There will be more showing up soon. My sources of information are quite good.” Sense Motive vs DC 10 Highlight to display spoiler: {You do notice that there is a hint of concern in his face but it then goes away.}
Gothruk introduces himself and says it is an honor to meet a king. “A king?” The Purple Duke speaks with a wide smile. “Son, I am no king. Just a lowly duke. My castle is free to anyone one of you. Do what you please. This keep has hundreds of rooms. The training rooms are large, filled from floor to ceiling with exotic and standard weapons. My master-at-arms stands waiting to assist you.” The duke indicates a minotaur, armored and armed, but seems to be waiting only to help.
Kiwina follows the servants and listens to them talk about the Garden. Kiwina and Sable only, Highlight to display spoiler: {You learn that deep in the dungeons under the Keep, where there used to be a dead end stone corridor, now the tunnel ends in a leafy archway! The leaves glow like daylight, and in the archway one guard says he saw a fair magical lady. }
“The Purple Duke was granted the Castle Violet and it’s surrounding lands from his father. His father kept the town prosperous and safe even during the war,” says another servant, “though of course he himself and most of the bulls went off to fight.”
Sable reasons that the Rose will likely appear outside, where it is warm.
Tsak Rezar wonders about the music. “I’m telling you, you will love Some Direction, all the calfs are screaming over them,” the Duke says.
Falco finds his mind wandering then puts out several questions
Finnian sneaks around the castle, watching the servents go from room to room. They seem to be delivering food and other services on occasion. One one servant, a fellow half-elf notices him and happily redirects Finnian back to the dining room. “You are several floors up from the dining room,” he says. “No need to sneak around here,” he says with a wink.
The luncheon is very pleasant, with a vast array of cold dishes, cheeses, fruit, and more. Above your head are windows stacked on window in a large dome. Sunlight shines down upon rows and rows of tables and chairs. You do notice that you and Tovalt’s Crew are the only questers here now, though the Purple King’s court and retinue do help fill the place. The Purple Duke invites both the Eight Petals and Tovalt’s Crew to talk about the opening ceremony. In fact, you know his scribes are taking notes.
After lunch, the Tovalt’s Crew group leaves, anxious to find and win their first rose. Sense Motive DC13 Highlight to display spoiler: {And Tovalt wants a head start on you Petals.}
An elderly sage approaches you at the Duke’s behest, happy to offer his wisdom.
“Sure, I bet you have many questions,” says the old Minotaur sage, standing near Falco after the meal. 1 - Does the quest for the rose bring people here every 100 years? “The Quest for the Rose is a mysterious tradition. Some say the quest recurs every 100 years. Others think it is happens at odd intervals. Each quest is different.” 2 - How have past teams faired on this leg, pitfalls? “On this leg? You made it here so that’s the first.” He laughs. “That water thins out much of the competition. We heard many were lost at sea last time, just about 100 years ago. I heard a tale that the judges back then thought they would have to cancel the taurnament, but as you know, the Taurs are all about traditions. This is the first time questers have come to the Violet Keep, so who knows what will happen!” 3 - Would the term "dungeon garden" have any meaning to this area, is it a place we could be directed to? “Under the Keep, in the dungeon, is the garden you’re looking for. It is a miracle -- how can growing things thrive down in the dark? And yet it is so!” 4 - Any books on past quests in the library? I would love to read one. “Books, hmm.” He thinks. Barnaby Bjorn has a book you maybe interested in called “Within the Walls.” It’s more of a travel book then any entertaining fiction from the likes of Kido Brickfoot. The “Traveler’s Dilemma” is an excellent series. Six books in all. But quest lore is mighty scarce!”
After lunch, Gothruk finds the master at arms and tests himself against the fellow. He is a truly skilled individual, hale, and in his late middle age. He has stories about the last campaign on Centaur Isle, and wonders how Gothruk can stand to travel with a centaur. "In my day it would have been a shameful thing to do," he says," shaking his head. "But I'm an old taur, and these are new times."
Soon it is time for dinner, and the feast is ten times more grand -- and more delicious -- than the lunch! There are seven courses, and between each course there is wonderful entertainment. The feast starts with wild fennel and soursnail soup; chilled yelder tree bark stew, for courage in Imod’s honor; and a flight of drinks, featuring several excellent vintages of Purple Wine and -- in honor of the Quest -- some rare and expensive Century Ale.
The band of bards is quite an impressive sight, and the performance features magical music, lights, and images cast by the bards as well as superb singing. Roses feature heavily in the show, of course.
The main courses are even more impressive, featuring a half dozen roasting pigs served entire; stinging seaweed salad; and a net of geldenfish, garnished with dove flowers. Dessert is salmonberry custard, to help you sleep.
After the feast, the Duke rises and thanks YOU all for staying. It does not take a Sense Motive check to tell that he is annoyed the other questing group did not stay to enjoy his feast. “For such noble and friendly questers,” he says, “I am pleased and proud to offer a few small tokens of appreciation.”
He gives you two small packages. The containers alone are worthy gifts! They are wrapped in a velvet cloth bags, embroidered in platinum thread with the Old High Woldian runes for “gift” and “gratitude.” One pouch holds a pan pipe. The other, a vial.
“I thought that the music and wine we shared tonight merited a remembrance,” the Duke says.
There is a chance for polite chit chat, and then the Duke’s servants show you to your beds.
Rolth Niheow (BatMark) (16/16 HP | AC: 14; Touch: 11; Flat: 12; CMD: 17) | Glaive +3 1d10+4 x3 | Paws (2) +1 1d4+1 x2| Status: None d20+2=22 ; d20+2=16 ; d20+2=8 ; Thursday June 1st, 2017 9:18:39 PM
Rolth listens to the Duke's genuinely pleased speech of introduction, and notes his concern about the arrival of more questers. (Sense Motive = 22, success) (Sense Motive = 16, success) "Don't worry, sir, I'm sure that those questers that follow on our heels will generally be of the good-natured sort, much as ourselves." He is happy to share the verses from the opening ceremony, knowing that there were too many witnesses for word not to get out anyway.
Rolth is yet again annoyed by the rudeness of Tovalt's Crew, but dismisses their hasty departure without another thought. (Sense Motive = 8, fail) "What cads they were," he nods sadly to the Duke, while being secretly happy that the Eight Petaled Rose has put a much better face on the amity of the noble races. More happily, he heartily thanks the Duke for the honor of sharing a glass of the prized Purple Wine. "Surely it is no coincidence that this finest of vintages shares its hue with the finest of hosts!" He also enjoys a mug of the Century Ale, which is a brew fit for this centennial quest, after all.
Of the other gifts, Rolth is most attracted to the bags themselves, carefully tracing the runes with a finger and committing them to memory--he has a real fascination with Old Woldian. "Sir Duke, we will strive to be worthy of these fine gifts, and bear them with honor."
Following the dinner, he will invite his friends to join him in his room for a chat, where they can share the results of their investigations. Moreover, can Falco, with his knowledge of the arcane, divine the purpose of the pipes or vial? "Should we seek the dungeon tonight, or is there more to be gained by waiting for the morn?"
[OOC- sorry about the double post, I must have hit submit rather than "roll". [Cayzle OOC: no problem, fixed.] Also, the whole line about D'rammstein is the most hilarious thing I have seen all week. Du Hast!]
Kiwina (Steve M) (16/16 HP | AC:14; Touch:11; Flat:12; CMD:15) | Status: None Friday June 2nd, 2017 12:02:49 AM
Kiwina makes sure the rest of the party knows what he and Sable learned -- before dinner if possible, but not with the rival team around: {You learn that deep in the dungeons under the Keep, where there used to be a dead end stone corridor, now the tunnel ends in a leafy archway! The leaves glow like daylight, and in the archway one guard says he saw a fair magical lady. } At that time he also proposes simply asking permission to explore the area. He does not ask unless the others agree, and does not ask in front of Tovalt's Crew.
Kiwina responds openly and honestly to the Duke's questions about the opening ceremonies, without volunteering his own suppositions of that day. He partakes of the famed purple wine, but with moderation. He is quite willing to put moderation aside for the food, though.
Kiwina also asks whether the Duke knows if Tovalt's Crew remains in the castle or went out exploring.
Tsak Rezar (Damien) AC15 (T13/F12) 12/12 HP| Falchion +4 2D4+3|Status: None d20=8 ; d20=7 ; Friday June 2nd, 2017 5:26:11 AM
(sense motive #1 = 8 FAIL, sense motive #2 = 7 FAIL) With a sinking heart Tsak realises that his life spent aboard ships, among common folk, has given him no ability to sense the intentions of the Purple Duke and his fancy courtiers. But he regains some spirit when the Sage relays news that they are in the right place to access the dungeon garden, and in such a way as to confirm that they have understood the riddle correctly. However reconciling these two things is troublesome as he is unsure just how to approach the issue of gaining access to the dungeon. Should he just come out and ask? It might be best this think about it over a nice, cold, frothy Century Ale (or two). Yes thinking about the good old days with your erstwhile Dwarven companions sure beats wrapping your head around politics.
Falco Ambersier (Ryan M) (7/7 HP | AC: 13; Touch: 13; Flat: 11; CMD: 12) | 7/7 Acid Dart | Lt Crossbow +3 1d6 x2 | Status: None d20+8=12 ; d20+8=12 ; d20+8=18 ; Friday June 2nd, 2017 7:32:45 AM
Falco enjoys the feasts though he is careful not to overdo it, an easy thing to do when eating with the Tauren! Eating less gives him plenty of time to listen and better yet find the answers to his questions.
As the elder speaks Falco takes careful notes so he can pass on the information to the others. . He is surprised to learn that the sea took so many competitors last time and thankful they found a good ship. When Kido Brickfoot he first asks who that is and if no answer comes will quietly ask around. [Know Local: 12]
As the gifts are presented he expresses his grattitute along with the rest of the team and examines the items for any magical properties {Detect Magic / Know Arcana: 12 Pan Pipe / Know Arcana: 18 Vial]
Finnian (Zeke) (HP:11/11; AC: 16; Touch: 13; Flat: 13; CMD: 17) d20=1 ; d20+4=18 ; d20+4=16 ; Friday June 2nd, 2017 12:00:52 PM
[sense motive= 1] Finnian sits in ignorant bliss during the lunch. He wasn't that hungry until the food was set out before him, but once it was he gobbled it up as if he hadn't been fed in years. The conversation was pleasant and Finnian spent most of the lunch telling himself to eat slower. After lunch Finnian made his way to onr of the training rooms and fired his bow at some test dummies. It had been too long since he felt the draw of the bow and it was heavy. "I mustn't spend so much time before practicing again I fear if I do I won't be able to draw the cord of this new bow"
When dinnertime comes around Finnian is in awe of the feast, if he thought lunch was grand... The wine was delightful, but Finnian, not much of a drinker only took a few sips of the centuary ale and found it a bit stong for his taste. He refilled his wine once and that was enough to bring out his more talkitive side. He ate and laughed listening to people recount past adventures and speculated what they would find in the dungeon garden. Upon recieving the gifts he thanked the Duke graciously and observed the two gifts with wonder trying to figure out what they do.
[know arcana 18, 16 respectively]
Back in Rolths room Finnian plops down in a chair and listens to the discussions. "I for one would love to go on an adventure and think that we should explore immediately"
[Sense motive 2 reveals that Finnian may have drank a bit more than he should have and could use a sleep, but you also get the sense that if he were put in a tight spot, even in his state, he could probably hold his own]
Gothruk Gore (Logan) AC 12 (T11/F10) 12/12HP |Guisarme +3 2D6+4| Status: None d20+4=7 ; d20+4=13 ; d20+4=24 ; Friday June 2nd, 2017 12:02:27 PM
Sense motive (1D20+4=7=Failure) Sense motive 2 (1D20+4=13=Pass) Sense motive 3 (1D20+4=24=Pass) Gothruk will try and learn as much as he can from the Master at arms, watching how he keeps his feet, where his strikes come from and how he likes to string them together. If he lands any particularly successful strikes on Gothruk, he'll make sure to commit them to memory, both to attempt them himself as well as to prevent others from passing through his defences the same way.
When questioned about how he can travel with a centaur without feeling shame he reply's with. Yes, I can understand your reasoning for not liking centaurs. I'm sure that you would have personally seen terrible deeds done by them during the wars. However during the wars and fighting the mighty minotaur's were only seeing the worst of them. They are actually a lot like us when you get to know them better. Each race thinking that they are superior has caused naught but a lot of damage, that needs to be changed if we're going to move forward and be the strongest and best we can be. I don't feel Domi created us only for us to fight amongst each other, but to make each other stronger. Now, show me how to do that parry again, I can't work it out.
Gothruk will eat well but will likely have eaten all he could before the last two meals, as politely as possible explaining he is not used to such hospitality and that he wouldn't be able to eat the last two meals.
Upon receiving the gifts he'll heartily thank the Duke Thank you, I doubt we are worth such gifts but I would also never dream of not accepting them. Say you have many adventurers to come will you be giving out gifts to all, that seems a quick way to empty the treasury. Then again I know so little about running a duchy I may well just be making myself look like a fool.
After we retire to our rooms. [b] I say we rest overnight, then head downwards to the aforementioned passageway covered in glowing plants. Perhaps we keep a man on guard, I trust the Duke, the other band of adventurers less so however. [b/]
Kiwina (Steve M) (16/16 HP | AC:14; Touch:11; Flat:12; CMD:15) | Status: None Friday June 2nd, 2017 6:52:35 PM Addendum: Kiwina asks the Duke's permission to explore the leafy archway that the party has heard has appeared in the dungeons of the castle. He also thanks the Duke for the magnificent gifts and asks, since their use is not obvious to Kiwina from his upbringing, what they do.
Rose Quest Day 09, Midnight and Almost Day 10 (Co-DM Cayzle) Friday June 2nd, 2017 7:10:12 PM Rolth listens and notes the Dukes concerns. His motives seem noble. No questions there. Sure he may know a bit more about the dungeons. It is his castle. Rolth adds, "Don't worry, sir, I'm sure that those questers that follow on our heels will generally be of the good-natured sort, much as ourselves." He is annoyed by the dismissive attitude of Tovalt’s Crew. “You are as kind,” the Duke says. His smile broad. Following dinner, he asks the others to join him. "Should we seek the dungeon tonight, or is there more to be gained by waiting for the morn?"
Kiwina relays everything he learned. He responds to the Duke’s questions and asks about the other team. The Duke replies that the other group has decided to move ahead to the garden and not partake of the food. The Purple Duke is visibly irritated at the thought of someone not enjoying themselves. “It’s an insult,” he finally says. “I put this out for all the questors.”
Tsak Rezar realizes he cannot read the Duke and his courtiers but is relieved to learn that they are in the right place. He wonders about gaining access to the dungeon.
Falco tries not to overdo it on the food. He is surprised that the sea took so many lives. He asked about Kido Brickfoot and the sage answers with a short explanation that he is a dwarf, quite well travelled, living in Dirt City. For such a corrupt place, the city, they have a very successful printing industry. The wishes Falco a good evening; his old bones are not up to the feast, and he has an early bedtime.
[OOC to Falco: Highlight to display spoiler: { Per the rules, it is Spellcraft, not Know Arcana, that you need to identify magic items. Fortunately, you are at +8 with both skills, so I can use the rolls you made. The DC to ID a magic item is 15 + item CL. Your roll of 12 for the pan pipes are not even close. Your roll of 18 for the vial gets the job done.} ] Falco is puzzled by the musical instrument, though it is magical with a slight conjuration aura. The vial is a Taur’s Philter of Expeditious Retreat.
Finnian enjoyed the dinner then spent some time in the training room firing his bow. He rejoined at dinner, enjoyed the food and listens to the tales of great monsters and complex puzzles. Jubilant winners and beaten losers. After dinner he tries to listen to the others, "I for one would love to go on an adventure and think that we should explore immediately"
Gothruk trains with the master at arms, who seems to prefer an adorned staff that was particularly sharp. He bests Gothruk several times, drawing blood, but no more than a scratch. The master at arms seemed to be all but impossible to strike from the front but vulnerable when Gothruk was able to strike from behind. He seemed to be particularly susceptible to distraction. He bows, honoring your training, when you are done.
When questioned about how he can travel with a centaur without feeling shame, the minotaur Petal replies, “Yes, I can understand your reasoning for not liking centaurs. I'm sure that you would have personally seen terrible deeds done by them during the wars. However during the wars and fighting the mighty minotaur's were only seeing the worst of them. They are actually a lot like us when you get to know them better. Each race thinking that they are superior has caused naught but a lot of damage, that needs to be changed if we're going to move forward and be the strongest and best we can be. I don't feel Domi created us only for us to fight amongst each other, but to make each other stronger. Now, show me how to do that parry again, I can't work it out.” The master weapon wielder shakes his head but does not argue the point.
-- After the meal Gothruk thanks the Duke. “Thank you, I doubt we are worth such gifts but I would also never dream of not accepting them. Say you have many adventurers to come, will you be giving out gifts to all? That seems a quick way to empty the treasury. Then again I know so little about running a duchy I may well just be making myself look like a fool.” The Duke laughs. “What is all the profit of trade that passes through my Keep good for if not for this!”
He adds after that they should rest for the night and post a guard.
Sable watches the proceedings quietly.
After the gifts are given, Kiwina asks the Duke's permission to explore the leafy archway. The Purple Duke grants his permission. “Ah, you heard about that! So too did those rude fellows. Of course, my keep is yours to enjoy. Good luck!”
The centaur also thanks the Duke for the magnificent gifts and asks what they do. The Duke sends you to the sage, Barnaby Bjorn ... who, it turns out, has gone to bed, but who will see you in the morning.
After the gifts, small groups of courtiers join you for after-dinner drinks. It’s a bit of a din, with all the talking about stories they have heard of heroes and taurnaments.
At the very end of the night, a small creature with white fur and a colorful outfit shows up. It is hard to tell what it is, but the Duke and his guard seemed very amused and the guards play a game of trying to capture it. It, or rather, she, manages to run throughout the dining area. When she finds room on one of the tables, she climbs on top and calls out: “You’re late ... You’re late ... You’re late ... Only twenty-one dates. Don’t sit on crates and calculate! You’re late ... So late.”
The creature stops in front of Gothruk. It is a rat folk, small with a long nose. She wiggles that nose, shakes her bells, and shouts: “Late folk!” -- but then the guards, dressed in violet armor, grab her from the table and the Duke apologizes -- this is his court jester, he explains, and on that note, he offers all a good night!
Later, in Rolth’s room, you debate a midnight run at the garden, or is it better to try in the morning? Finnian wants to explore immediately. Gothruk wants to wait for morning.
Rolth Niheow (BatMark) (16/16 HP | AC: 14; Touch: 11; Flat: 12; CMD: 17) | Glaive +3 1d10+4 x3 | Paws (2) +1 1d4+1 x2| Status: None Friday June 2nd, 2017 10:07:58 PM
Rolth is with his WLA companion Finnian on this one. Perhaps following in the footsteps of the other crew, we can take any threats by surprise, or learn from their corpses before they are completely devoured. He is willing to go with the majority of the party, however. "So what will it be, fellows? Adventure or sleep?"
If the Petals do choose to snooze, Rolth agrees with Gothruk that they should mount a watch, just in case.
Tsak Rezar (Damien) AC15 (T13/F12) 12/12 HP| Falchion +4 2D4+3|Status: None Saturday June 3rd, 2017 12:21:03 AM
Tsak, despite the Duke's advice, is up for a midnight run. If they can get the rose and back on the boat in then they'll have four days to rest, assuming they are heading to Centaur Isle next. However this assumes everyone is in tip top condition and raring to go. If that's not the case then rest is the better option. Dibs the first watch, if it comes to that!
Kiwina (Steve M) (16/16 HP | AC:14; Touch:11; Flat:12; CMD:15) | Status: None Saturday June 3rd, 2017 12:22:18 AM
Kiwina is up for exploring right now as well. But he is glad that the group accepted their host's hospitality. To act as Tovalt's group did would be an insult to the Duke and would bring bad luck.
Gothruk Gore (Logan) AC 12 (T11/F10) 12/12HP |Guisarme +3 2D6+4| Status: None Saturday June 3rd, 2017 9:58:27 AM
We've had a long day, we're all full of food and I don't know how many ate the salmonberry custard but that surely wouldn't help us stay alert. This is the first test of the taurnimate, let's attempt it fresh Though if you'd like to go no I'll join. I'm already outvoted.
Sable (Don) (15/15 HP | AC: 15/17; Touch: 11; Flat: 13/15; CMD: 18) | Status: Stern d20+3=10 ; d20+3=20 ; d20+3=14 ; Saturday June 3rd, 2017 12:40:10 PM
Sable takes all of the day's events in, happy to have had the chance to partake at the Dukes table. He is concerned that the other group has headed out before dinner, both because of the rudeness -- and also because he sensed that they were trying to get a head start.
"I think now is the time for action, we have honored our host and now can proceed. Let's take advantage of the insight we have gained and begin the quest in earnest."
If there is time, he will ask the host about the two items "I lack the skills to discern the properties of the gifts you have provided - might I inquire as to their use?"
[OOC by Cayzle: Someone already asked ... the Duke referred you to his sage, who has retired for the night.]
Finnian (Zeke) (HP:11/11; AC: 16; Touch: 13; Flat: 13; CMD: 17) Sunday June 4th, 2017 11:16:40 AM
Finnain sits in the corner clearly asleep but if anyone calls his name or attempts to shake him awake he will jolt from his slumber and follow the group in a daze, not sure exactly where they are going or what they are doing.
Rolth Niheow (BatMark) (16/16 HP | AC: 14; Touch: 11; Flat: 12; CMD: 17) | Glaive +3 1d10+4 x3 | Paws (2) +1 1d4+1 x2| Status: None Sunday June 4th, 2017 9:32:02 PM
Rolth, seeing a consensus forming, shakes Finnian awake gently, saying, "Come, we are resolved to investigate the garden tonight. Let's earn our WLA titles together!"
[OOC, we had a player discussion to make sure that no one felt OOC that their hand was being forced unduly to take this path. Also, based on that same conversation, I've posted to the Taur Isles game page default marching orders that almost everyone has explicitly OKed; let me know if there are questions or changes. I'll try to make a neater version soon.]
Falco Ambersier (Ryan M) (7/7 HP | AC: 13; Touch: 13; Flat: 11; CMD: 12) | 7/7 Acid Dart | Lt Crossbow +3 1d6 x2 | Status: None Sunday June 4th, 2017 10:52:16 PM
[ooc: This is my Monday post. I cannot stay up late enough lol]
“My friends the vial can be very useful but I have not yeat worked out the pan pipes. Unless there is an objection, and someone wants to try and use them, I think I should hold on to them and examine again tomorrow. The vial will allow one of use to move very quickly when needed, most likely important to the quest.”
“I will gladly explore this evening but I think we may be better servered to let me have a fresh look at the pipes. If they are key it is better we know it is it not? Regardless, I have no problem with a bold approach.” [ooc: I am on the record in the email happy to move forward as a player]
Matthew S. Co-DM - Day 10 - Early, Early-Morning d20=5 ; d20=11 ; d20=7 ; d20=10 ; Monday June 5th, 2017 8:21:59 PM Rolth and Finnian have all but made a decision -- however, they wait for the others.
Finnian is asleep but easily awoken by Rolth. He says, "Come, we are resolved to investigate the garden tonight. Let's earn our WLA titles together!"
Kiwina and Tsak Rezar are up for a midnight run.
Gothruk wants to sleep on it but willing to join the others tonight.
Sable takes in the day and gets a sense that the other group is trying to get ahead. "I think now is the time for action, we have honored our host and now can proceed. Let's take advantage of the insight we have gained and begin the quest in earnest."
Falco says, “My friends the vial can be very useful but I have not yet worked out the pan pipes. Unless there is an objection, and someone wants to try and use them, I think I should hold on to them and examine again tomorrow. The vial will allow one of use to move very quickly when needed, most likely important to the quest.”
“I will gladly explore this evening but I think we may be better served to let me have a fresh look at the pipes. If they are key it is better we know it is it not? Regardless, I have no problem with a bold approach.”
With a decision made you head out as a group. It’s midnight, and although the Duke has retired, the party is still going on, judging by the sounds from the feasting hall. As you head down, you notice a group of newly arrived questers sitting and talking at the dining room. A ship carrying questers must have docked with the late night tide. The jester dances on the table as the castle guards attempt to catch her but they don’t seem to be trying as hard to catch her, this time. You pass on, not attracting attention.
Downstairs from the dining room, the air gets a bit dense and you can smell the mildew within the stone-walled dungeon. At the bottom of the steps, you travel through a long corridor. Although the air should be getting more dank, in fact, you smell a fresh breeze, and the fair smell of growing things. Ahead around a corner, you hear the sounds of voices. You turn to what should be a dead end, but instead you reach a magical place where the farthest reach of the corridor terminates not in a stone wall, but in a hedge, covered with green leaves. Some magical light illuminates a scene: before you stands a beautiful young lady arguing with a eight minotaurs. She stands before a gate of leaves and roots. She has an unearthly beauty, and she is clad in a dress made of rose petals. There is a rose in her hair.
If you make a Trained Knowledge Nature check vs DC13, then Please Highlight to display spoiler: {You feel sure this is a dryad of some variety. Usually they are associated with a tree ... is it possible she is associated with this magical hedge?}
“I answered your questions right!” shouts the lead minotaur. “You can’t change the answers.” “Rock,” says one of the others, trying to calm the loud one down. “Maybe, we should just let the next group step forward.”
“No!” he replies sharply. “We can’t miss the rose in our own homeland! The shame of it! This is unacceptable.”
“I’m so tired of this ...” says another minotaur, and he steps up to the lead minotaur. “We need to talk.” He practically drags the other minotaur away. The others in the group follow, heads bowed. They walk around the corner and out of sight, back the way you came, down the candle-lit hallway. You can hear them arguing, but the dryad looks at you. She sighs, then greets the Petals courteously and says formally, “Welcome, rose-questers! The hour is late, and my patience is already worn thin. But if you must try the garden, then at least heed my guidance.”
More softly, she mutters, “Unlike those pig-head taurs who just left. Oh My Gods!”
She steps directly between you and the glowing green hedge. She speaks deliberately, as if from a script.
"I will ask you four riddles, and for each riddle you answer correctly, you may enter and remain in the garden for half a minute. Answer all four and you may stay for two minutes, Fail to answer any and you may not enter at all. Be careful! Once you enter, if any one of you makes any attack while you are in the garden, then the garden will turn on you and try to expel you all! If you are expelled, you may not return! Here is the first riddle."
"I have wrestled to acclaim! Get to know me! What’s my name? I have three. By three I’m known. Three my children by my throne. One is used by those with hooves. (This the greater Wold approves.) One is used by those with claws. Warped by fearsome teeth and jaws! One is used by those with horns, But the common order scorns. Answer this and pass you may, Speak my names and go your way!"
She smiles sweetly and awaits your answer.
Kiwina (Steve M) (16/16 HP | AC:14; Touch:11; Flat:12; CMD:15) | Status: None d20+5=10 ; Monday June 5th, 2017 9:20:58 PM Rolls: Knowledge, nature = 10
As they leave the festivities, Kiwina worries that the party should enter the dungeon garden before Tovalt's Crew leaves it. He does not trust that group, having already shown themselves to be rude and disrespectful, would not try to sabotage the entrance once they leave. For that matter, the Eight Petal Rose will need to be careful when leaving the dungeon of any surprises Tovalt's Crew may have left.
Kiwina also worries that the party did not obtain a container fit for keeping a magic rose before they left the Liontaur island. Assuming it is the size of an ordinary rose, do the others think it would fit in a scroll case? That seems better protection than a backpack or sack. In fact, "If there happens to be a flower available from the festivities -- a rose would be best, but another will do -- we should stick one into a scroll case as a decoy," Kiwina says, to worry less.
Once they reach the hedge, where the young lady and minotaurs are, Kiwina is deep in thought. He snaps himself out of it as the minotaurs fall back, to listen to the lady's riddle. When she is finished, he says, "I assume we are allowed to discuss the answer among ourselves before we give it to you."
Rolth Niheow (BatMark) (16/16 HP | AC: 14; Touch: 11; Flat: 12; CMD: 17) | Glaive +3 1d10+4 x3 | Paws (2) +1 1d4+1 x2| Status: None d20+7=23 ; Monday June 5th, 2017 9:26:35 PM
Rolth is secretly pleased that the other parties seem to be so uncouth. He thinks to himself, "And they call us of the inland ways savages? Well, I shall show them how a noble 'savage' should comport himself!" Stepping up to the Lady of the Rose, he sketches a bow, and assures her, "We shall not make such poor company as those fellows, and would be quite pleased to heed your guidance. I am pleased to introduce the Eight-Petaled Rose, at your service. Pray allow us to consider these riddles for but a moment, and we shall allow you to discharge your duties in short order."
Turning back to the Petals, he suggests a quick huddle so that they might not be overheard by any spying competitors as they confer. In fact, he will look and listen to make sure there are no such occurrences, and suggest that the others do the same. (Perception = 23)
Once the coast seems clear, he excitedly whispers his initial thoughts about the riddles. To wit, "Surely this is mostly about the famous wrestling Domi, who also is called Tomi by my people, and on Bridge we learned of the minotaur belief in Imod, am I not right, Sable? But what is the fourth riddle? Something to do with a rose, perhaps? A rose by any other name? And see too, she has a rose in her hair, do we even need to go into the garden, or is that the object of the quest? What think you all?"
Rose Quest Day 10 EXTRA (Co-DM Cayzle) Monday June 5th, 2017 9:50:03 PM
You are allowed to discuss among yourselves.
You sense no eavesdroppers nearby.
This is just the first riddle. Evidently there are three answers to the first riddle.
Gothruk Gore (Logan) AC 12 (T11/F10) 12/12HP |Guisarme +3 2D6+4| Status: None Monday June 5th, 2017 9:51:22 PM Aye, it sounds like Domi to me, perhaps each of the taur races uses a different name for him and than Domi is the fourth answer? If he is called Tomi by the Liontaurs and I know him as Imod than perhaps. All we need find out is if the centaur's have their own name for him. Gothruk thinks out loud
Ooc: I love riddles!
Sable (Don) (15/15 HP | AC: 15/17; Touch: 11; Flat: 13/15; CMD: 18) | Status: Stern d20+4=24 ; Tuesday June 6th, 2017 2:41:50 AM "Are you sure there is a fourth name?", Sable says to the team, "Seems you already know three names, with one the most widely known "
Tsak Rezar (Damien) AC15 (T13/F12) 12/12 HP| Falchion +4 2D4+3|Status: None Tuesday June 6th, 2017 5:18:08 AM
Tsak thinks Sable has the right of it. He steps up to the lady and, trying very hard not to appear menacing in any way, suppliers her with the answer M'lady the answer is Domi, Tomi (pronouncing it toe-my) and Imod
Finnian (Zeke) (HP:11/11; AC: 16; Touch: 13; Flat: 13; CMD: 17) d20+4=19 ; d20+4=6 ; Tuesday June 6th, 2017 10:35:46 AM
Finnian begins to come out of his groggy state long enough to realize what the woman before the group actually is. "She is a Dryad" He whispers "and I wonder if she is connected to the hedge?" [Knowledge Nature=19]
The groups analysis of the riddle seems to work, the only thing that he knew about Domi was that he was a wrestler and that some of his fellow craftsmen worshiped him as a great blacksmith. Beyond that however he had to trust in his fellow companions.
Finding a moments lull in the conversation Finnian approaches the woman and gives her a slight bow. "Excuse me, but am I correct in assuming that you are a Dryad? I am Finnian I have wondered the Forests of the Wold and have always felt more at home among the trees that in these cities and towns. I have never before chanced upon a Dryad, but I have been told stories by my uncle of your kind. I hope that it is not too bold of me to ask, but I have heard that a Dryad is typically bonded to a tree, are you bonded to this wondrous hedge? And if you are then what happens when it disappears?" Finnian blushes and then adds "I am sorry if I have offended you lady but my wits are not all here tonight and my curiosity has gotten the better of me."
Finnian allows the others to sort out the riddle while he thoroughly examines the hedge without getting to close. He notes the shape of the leaves and the thickness of the branches, and vows to himself that he will get a notebook the next chance he gets so that he can write down the knowledge he has gathered. [Know Arcana on Hedge=6]
Sable (Don) (15/15 HP | AC: 15/17; Touch: 11; Flat: 13/15; CMD: 18) | Status: Stern d20+4=10 ; d20+4=9 ; Tuesday June 6th, 2017 6:23:21 PM
Sable, intrigued by Finnian's musings, takes a closer look at the hedge (Knowledge Nature) - 10. And then studies the rose petal dress and rose in the Dryad's hair (Knowledge Nature - 9) -- he is not sure if they are the one and the same as was seen in the vision.
Rose Quest Day 10 Five Past Midnight (Co-DM Cayzle) Tuesday June 6th, 2017 6:27:53 PM
Kiwina makes a plan to use a scroll case to carry the rose … and maybe a decoy too. He discusses the riddle with his fellow petals.
Rolth speaks gently to the magic lady, checks for eavesdroppers, and shares his ideas with the group.
Gothruk agrees with Roth.
Sable wonders if there is a fourth name. He seems just momentarily confused. This riddle, the first riddle has a three-part answer. The other riddles have their own answer, you expect.
While the rest of his friends are talking over the riddle, Finnian chats up the lady. Politely. He tries to satisfy his curiosity with probing arcane questions. The magical lady looks into Finnian's eyes and smiles mysteriously. "You can hardly disturb a lady in the middle of the night and ask for such personal details," she says with a delicate yawn. "A gentleman does not ask, and a lady does not tell!" If you can make a Sense Motive check vs DC10, then Please Highlight to display spoiler: {She does not seem angry or offended, though -- maybe slightly amused?} She assures him that she is not offended.
Meanwhile, Tsak Rezar thinks Sable has the right of it. He speaks clearly to the magical gate keeper: "M'lady the answer is Domi, Tomi (pronouncing it toe-my) and Imod."
The lady laughs delightedly. “Oh yes, you are on your way! Here is the second riddle.”
Long I slept, by queen betrayed, Until elves by accolade Made my dreaming sleep to fade. Then in anger sure displayed, Woken as a renegade, Launching nature’s fusillade, I declared my fey crusade! ... But my reign was overthrown. Heroes brave with blades that shone Bent my knee and broke my throne. Down in sad defeat, and prone, Forced to ponder on my own Then in choosing to depone Vowed did I to fair atone! All my past misdeeds I own. They are mine and mine alone. Penance now displayed and shown, Anger now have I outgrown. Friendship now, my true capstone.
Kiwina (Steve M) (16/16 HP | AC:14; Touch:11; Flat:12; CMD:15) | Status: None Tuesday June 6th, 2017 9:16:02 PM
"Depone?" Kiwina snorts softly, wondering if that is really a word. He feels out of his element. He surreptitiously studies the rose in the lady's hair. She would make a fine eternal creature. "Perhaps," he says, "if there is no line waiting when our group is done, you could explain to me the value of a rose."
Rolth Niheow (BatMark) (16/16 HP | AC: 14; Touch: 11; Flat: 12; CMD: 17) | Glaive +3 1d10+4 x3 | Paws (2) +1 1d4+1 x2| Status: None Tuesday June 6th, 2017 9:33:10 PM
Rolth is delighted by this latest verse. "Truly, this is fine poetry, and were it not so late, I would ask to hear it again. I see, however, a gleam in the eye of my boon companion, Sable Trueheart, and would bid him speak truly from his heart, should he have the answer to this riddle."
Falco (MarkBat, subbing for Ryan M) d20+8=18 ; Tuesday June 6th, 2017 9:37:06 PM
Falco takes an interest in Finnian and Sable's lines of questioning, and himself studies the magical light, hedge, rose, and (less obviously) the Lady herself. Can he discern anything of the magics hereabout? (Know Arcana = 18)
Gothruk Gore (Logan) AC 12 (T11/F10) 12/12HP |Guisarme +3 2D6+4| Status: None d20+4=24 ; Wednesday June 7th, 2017 4:15:00 AM
Gothruk muses over this one briefly Eberyon was put to sleep by his Queen Maab. Though I know not who woke him.
Tsak Rezar (Damien) AC15 (T13/F12) 12/12 HP| Falchion +4 2D4+3|Status: None Wednesday June 7th, 2017 5:17:30 AM
Tsak recalls that according to the Dwarf sailors he spent much time with Eberyon, the creator of all the Wold's natural places (including the seas) was put to sleep by his wife Maab and woken by elves. Going back into a huddle with the group he suggests this as the answer. If the group seems to be in agreement he will be happy to supply it to the Lady.
Finnian (Zeke) (HP:11/11; AC: 16; Touch: 13; Flat: 13; CMD: 17) d20=8 ; Wednesday June 7th, 2017 11:26:44 AM
[Sense Motive=8 Fail] Not very keen on picking up social cues Finnian blushes again, "I would come back early tomorrow to learn more, but I believe that by then we will have found the first rose and be on our way," He says with as much confidence as he can muster.
As she begins the next riddle Finnian instantly knows the answer "It's Eberyon. King of the Fey, and it was my fathers ancestors, the elves who woke him I believe" He whispers just loud enough for the Dryad woman to hear that he indeed has some knowledge of the fey but he is far to naive to supply the answer himself.
Rose Quest Day 10 Five Past Midnight (Co-DM Cayzle) Wednesday June 7th, 2017 7:02:32 PM
Kiwina snorts at a word in the riddle. "Perhaps," he says, "if there is no line waiting when our group is done, you could explain to me the value of a rose." The lady gives Kiwina quite a curious look -- then the magical lady snorts back at the liontaur, laughing. “Well, whatever the cost that might be set by a mortal, a rose would still smell as sweet, or so say the bards.”
Rolth is delighted by this latest verse. "Truly, this is fine poetry, and were it not so late, I would ask to hear it again. I see, however, a gleam in the eye of my boon companion, Sable Trueheart, and would bid him speak truly from his heart, should he have the answer to this riddle."
But Sable is silent and leaves it to others to solve the riddle.
Tsak Rezar recalls that according to the Dwarf sailors he spent much time with Eberyon, the creator of all the Wold's natural places (including the seas) was put to sleep by his wife Maab and woken by elves. Going back into a huddle with the group he suggests this as the answer. If the group seems to be in agreement he will be happy to supply it to the Lady.
Falco takes an interest in Finnian and Sable's lines of questioning, and himself studies the magical light, hedge, rose, and (less obviously) the Lady herself. Can he discern anything of the magics hereabout?
But in fact this is all magic beyond the normal workings of arcana. Maybe the Teucri could have done something like this, Falco thinks, or immortal powers could intervene to effect this magic. Perhaps a conclave of the Star Mages acting in unison? It is hard to say.
Finnian says, "I would come back early tomorrow to learn more, but I believe that by then we will have found the first rose and be on our way.” Then adds, "It's Eberyon. King of the Fey, and it was my father and his ancestors, the elves, who woke him I believe." In fact, this may be family history he is recounting -- as elves measure time, the Fey King rose from his slumber not all that long ago! Still, Finnian deduces that this woman is indeed fey. He whispers just loud enough for her to hear that he indeed has some knowledge of her people, but he is far too naive to supply the answer himself.
Falco is curious about the arcane skills of the lady. She is clearly a powerful fey, and the leaves upon the gate seem to move as walks near it. Falco also notices she seems to have a kind relationship with the hanging greenery, as she gently touches a few that reach down.
Anyway, Finnian’s whispers are not needed. Forthright Gothruk listens to his friends and muses over this one briefly -- then declares the answer: “Eberyon was put to sleep by his Queen Maab. Though I know not who woke him.”
The fey female smiles again at your correct answer. ‘Indeed, it was the King who slept, while we wandered the wild Wold or held Court with the Queen in the Valleys of Twilight. It was a happy day when he rose again, and a happier day still when he repented of his anger and swore to help and teach the noble races of the Wold.”
“Listen, young ones! Here now is the third riddle. Think deeply, for the last two are harder indeed!” She recites:
“Stronger than iron and darkwood and bone. Softer than leather, but sown, also sewn. Woven to save you from shock and from thud, Mother Wold's children, but nurtured with blood.”
Kiwina (Steve M) (16/16 HP | AC:14; Touch:11; Flat:12; CMD:15) | Status: None Wednesday June 7th, 2017 9:24:46 PM
"Lady, maybe the bards say that," Kiwina says, smiling. "But the cooks I know say, 'Roses smell better than onions, but make bad soup.'" He pauses to see if she responds to this witticism. "Anyway, I do not seek to purchase a rose from you. Surely you must have some opinion as to their worth." Kiwina has decided that this contest of naming strange gods is quite beyond his ken, but perhaps he can make it less dull for their hostess.
Falco (MarkBat, subbing for Ryan M) d20+8=15 ; Wednesday June 7th, 2017 9:30:39 PM
Falco thinks back to the stories told in his family's blademaking business, shrugging aside the painful memories and trying to think of tales of a material both supple and strong, that might have turned even their famous green blades. Some sort of silk, perhaps? Or maybe his later arcane training might supply an added hint, what with the apparent mention of Woldsblood. (Knowledge Arcana = 15 to discern the material at the heart of the riddle.)
Rolth Niheow (BatMark) (16/16 HP | AC: 14; Touch: 11; Flat: 12; CMD: 17) | Glaive +3 1d10+4 x3 | Paws (2) +1 1d4+1 x2| Status: None d20+7=21 ; Wednesday June 7th, 2017 9:52:04 PM
Rolth is stumped by this one, so he returns his attention to watching for eavesdroppers and interlopers. (Perception = 21)
Sable (Don) (15/15 HP | AC: 15/17; Touch: 11; Flat: 13/15; CMD: 18) | Status: Stern d20+4=16 ; Thursday June 8th, 2017 2:09:29 AM "Possibly some form of plant - like cotton or hemp, silk is made by worms or spiders (not sown)" Sable muses (Knowledge Nature - 16). "But what is the strongest and would be referred to as Mother Wold's children?"
Tsak Rezar (Damien) AC15 (T13/F12) 12/12 HP| Falchion +4 2D4+3|Status: None Thursday June 8th, 2017 6:21:57 AM
'Sable might not say much, but it's worth listening when he does' Tsak thinks to himself 'that's twice now he's steered us in the right direction.' Lady, an old sailors legend has it that there are a group of little people who live on a giant plain and will not use metal. Thus their armour and weapons and even their houses are made from the grasses of the plains. I not sure whether or not to believe the story, but if 'tis true then the answer to your riddle may be the 'steel grass' of the legend
[OOC] Thanks guys, third day in a row I've had an image of Jerry Lewis "HEY LADY!" running thru my head.
Finnian (Zeke) (HP:11/11; AC: 16; Touch: 13; Flat: 13; CMD: 17) Thursday June 8th, 2017 1:20:45 PM
Finnian is totally and completely stumped on this riddle but when Tsak says that it is steel grass it does seem to make sense.
Matthew S. Co-DM - Day 10: 12:05 - 12:30 Thursday June 8th, 2017 8:07:30 PM Kiwina says, "Lady, maybe the bards say that," Kiwina says, smiling. "But the cooks I know say, 'Roses smell better than onions, but make bad soup." "Anyway, I do not seek to purchase a rose from you. Surely you must have some opinion as to their worth." Kiwina has decided that this contest of naming strange gods is quite beyond his ken, but perhaps he can make it less dull for their hostess. The Dryad stares at Kiwina for a moment then smiles broadly. “Your flirtations are appreciated but unwarranted. You will not win any points or extra time for you efforts, but my name is Cassia. I can be found in the gardens outside of the castle outside once the taurnament is over. Maybe we could get some tea?” Falco thinks back to old stories. He tries to figure out the material at the heart of the riddle -- Finnian and Rolth are stumped as Rolth watches for eavesdroppers. He does notice the other group of questers has inched closer and is watching intently. The leader still looks agitated as the others cajole him into being patient. Sable says, "Possibly some form of plant - like cotton or hemp, silk is made by worms or spiders (not sown)" "But what is the strongest and would be referred to as Mother Wold's children?" Tsak Rezar says, “Lady, an old sailors legend has it that there are a group of little people who live on a giant plain and will not use metal. Thus their armour and weapons and even their houses are made from the grasses of the plains. I not sure whether or not to believe the story, but if 'tis true then the answer to your riddle may be the 'steel grass' of the legend.” Gothruk-- Says very little at the moment --
--- --- -- “Excellent.. Excellent... We can always hope that the Sargrass will be back again,” the Dryad says with a broad smile. Rock’s group of taurs begins to stamp and protest. “You are flirting with the creature. This is not fair,” Rock finally shouts. “That’s disrespectful. You can’t do that.” “This is your final warning group!” She says with built up anger. “Please depart the gate. You will not enter the garden.” With a great amount of noise Rock’s group grumbles, gathers their things, and pushes past you. They head up the stairs and disappear leaving only you and the Dryad.
“I’m so sorry,” She then says to the the Petals. “You are excellent riddle solvers. You have resolved three in a matter of moments. I have yet had the pleasure of presenting the last clue.”
Your final riddle.” Two balls dance and bounce so high. One is dead! We don't know why! One is lucky and can't die. She then waits with a smile expecting an answer.
Rolth Niheow (BatMark) (16/16 HP | AC: 14; Touch: 11; Flat: 12; CMD: 17) | Glaive +3 1d10+4 x3 | Paws (2) +1 1d4+1 x2| Status: None Thursday June 8th, 2017 10:04:40 PM
Rolth watches until Rock's group scatters off, then turns back to the task at hand with a low growl of satisfaction. He says to his companions, "Perhaps this one I can help with. All sailors know that there are two moons, and sometimes pray to one, named for its master Wardd, for a bit of luck, because against the power of the sea, skill can only take you so far. Kerracles is the other moon, but I don't know how to explain the reference to death, other than perhaps its waning. Any other ideas?"
Falco (MarkBat, subbing for Ryan M) d20=20 ; Thursday June 8th, 2017 10:21:56 PM
Falco nods, musing, "Yes, but perhaps in this case the lucky one that can't die is Kerracles, which as you recall orbits in the same plane as the surface of the Wold. So it never really 'dies' in the sense of going below the edge of the Wold as it orbits. Or so I recall from my studies. Could this be a trick question?" He glances at the Lady to see if her reaction reveals anything. (Sense Motive = 20)
Kiwina (Steve M) (16/16 HP | AC:14; Touch:11; Flat:12; CMD:15) | Status: None Thursday June 8th, 2017 10:45:42 PM
"Cassia, I will look forward to tea with you someday," Kiwina says.
Sable (Don) (15/15 HP | AC: 15/17; Touch: 11; Flat: 13/15; CMD: 18) | Status: Stern d20+4=24 ; Friday June 9th, 2017 3:17:37 AM
Sable nods as the others muse about the last answer (Knowledge Nature - 24).
Tsak Rezar (Damien) AC15 (T13/F12) 12/12 HP| Falchion +4 2D4+3|Status: None Friday June 9th, 2017 5:09:30 AM Sorry Falco says Tsak but I have to agree with Rolth that Wardd, who is indeed well known to sailors, is the lucky god that can't die. Kerracles is the other moon, but I too am at a loss to explain the reference to death! Tsak is happy to face the lady again with this latest 'guess' if none of the other party members has a better idea.
Falco Ambersier (Ryan M) (7/7 HP | AC: 13; Touch: 13; Flat: 11; CMD: 12) | 7/7 Acid Dart | Lt Crossbow +3 1d6 x2 | Status: None Friday June 9th, 2017 8:53:14 AM
[ooc: sorry for the lack of posting. The internet at the conference / school I was it did not extend past the classrooms. Thank you for keeping me active.]
Falco see the other group depart and grins. In this case we are the superior team it seems.
"Rolth and Tsak I concede this is outside my knowledge to some degree. Your answer makes sense to me.
Finnian (Zeke) (HP:11/11; AC: 16; Touch: 13; Flat: 13; CMD: 17) Friday June 9th, 2017 1:46:54 PM "Refering to her as a creature is disrespectful" Finnian thinks to himself as a surge of anger passes through him, but is quickly quelled by there departure.
Finnian agrees with the others, it seems the logical choice. As the other group stamps passed them he can't help but worry if they might be trouble later.
Matthew S. Co-DM - Day 10: 12:05 - 12:30 ROSE CHASE STARTS d20=7 ; d20=16 ; Friday June 9th, 2017 10:08:30 PM
The Dryad claps excited. “Wonderful! Wonderful! You have answered all the riddles. You have a full two minutes to capture a rose and bring it back to me.” The Dryad then becomes serious, “I warn you. You must’n attack my roses. You may pick one carefully. But an attack will result in consequences.” With that said the Dryad steps to the side and the leaves and limbs clear away from the gate. Inside the gate is a meadow filled with grasses and flowers. A scattering of roses are growing around the meadow. Perception vs DC: 7 Highlight to display spoiler: { Each rose walks around the meadow upon a pair of vine like feet. No rose is very close to another. You are able to notice that the roses seem to move around the meadow slowly. } There are four walls surrounding the garden but there are smaller, partial walls placed within the meadow. Eight roses are placed within the meadow. OOC: (The nearest rose is 70 feet away. It takes a move action to pick one gently.)
Kiwina (Steve M) (16/16 HP | AC:14; Touch:11; Flat:12; CMD:15) | Status: None Friday June 9th, 2017 11:02:07 PM
Setting his longspear aside, Kiwina says, "We have two minutes. I suggest we work in pairs to herd the roses into corners if they run from us. If you think a larger group works better, go for that. First group to pick a rose lets the others know so that the rest can leave off -- we only need one. Rolth and I are a bit faster, so I suggest we head for the one in the corner of that center hedge off to the right. Any other ideas?"
[OOC: 20 rounds, shouldn't be a problem if we work together.]
Rolth Niheow (MarkBat) (16/16 HP | AC: 14; Touch: 11; Flat: 12; CMD: 17) | Glaive +3 1d10+4 x3 | Paws (2) +1 1d4+1 x2| Status: None d20+7=26 ; d20+2=21 ; Saturday June 10th, 2017 8:41:07 AM
Rolth holsters his glaive, heartily agreeing with Kiwina's plan. "Let us time our arrivals to coincide, with me coming from the left and you perpendicular to that. Hopefully they will continue to move slowly!" (Perception = 26 to notice the slow movement)
As he nears the Rose, Rolth will politely but quickly ask it, "Would you like to join us, the Eight Petaled Rose, in winning the Taurnament of Roses? If so, please allow us to gently pluck your bloom and we will move on to triumph together!" (Diplomacy = 21)
If there is a positive or no response, Rolth will attempt to pluck said bloom. If it replies otherwise, he is prepared to be patient and negotiate.
Finnian (Zeke) (HP:11/11; AC: 16; Touch: 13; Flat: 13; CMD: 17) d20+6=13 ; d20+4=17 ; d20+4=21 ; d20+6=9 ; Saturday June 10th, 2017 9:01:35 AM
[Perception=13] [Know Arcana=17][Know Nature=21] Finnian notices that the roses are moving slowly around attempts to identify any characteristics about the roses before moving into the room. while Rolth and Kiwana move to take a diplomatic approach Finnian attempts to stealthy move into the room. He stows his bow on his back but doesn't do it very smoothly and makes too much noise.
[OOC: Double move with stealth is 30 ft. to P12]
Gothruk Gore (Logan) AC 12 (T11/F10) 12/12HP |Guisarme +3 2D6+4| Status: None d20+5=23 ; Saturday June 10th, 2017 1:52:49 PM
Perception (1d20+5=23=Success) Gothruk will do a double move forward, his weapon in his hands. Observing the flower in front of him.
Tsak Rezar (Damien) AC15 (T13/F12) 12/12 HP| Falchion +4 2D4+3|Status: None d20+5=16 ; Sunday June 11th, 2017 5:27:07 PM
[Perception = 16] The roses are moving! blurts out Tsak I wonder how fast they can move? Do you think those walls are all that's left of the maze? Tsak will show some caution and wait for a few seconds just observing as the others enter the meadow.
Rolth Niheow (MarkBat) (16/16 HP | AC: 14; Touch: 11; Flat: 12; CMD: 17) | Glaive +3 1d10+4 x3 | Paws (2) +1 1d4+1 x2| Status: None Sunday June 11th, 2017 8:49:56 PM
(OOC, this is just to break my actions down into one round at a time, since what I said above would take 2 rounds. Rolth double moves to V6 this round)
Sable (Don) (15/15 HP | AC: 15/17; Touch: 11; Flat: 13/15; CMD: 18) | Status: Stern d20+6=21 ; d20+4=13 ; Monday June 12th, 2017 2:47:27 AM
Sable, too, notices the slow movement of the flowers and blurts out, "They have legs!", he also remembers that roses love bonemeal -- he double moves towards X12 diagonally, beginning to fumble for his sharpening stone..
Falco Ambersier (Ryan M) (7/7 HP | AC: 13; Touch: 13; Flat: 11; CMD: 12) | 7/7 Acid Dart | Lt Crossbow +3 1d6 x2 | Status: None d20=17 ; Monday June 12th, 2017 6:27:59 AM
To the Dryad “Would you consider slowing one of them down with color spray to be an attack by any chance?”
[Perception: 17+2=19] – would also love to know the scale of these things.
Seeing the roses move around Falco first casts light on the sleeve of his robe thinking it may attract a flower.
“So they are mobile, that is interesting. Let’s work on one half of the room, isolate the smaller side perhaps.”
Knowing he is the slowest of the group Falco begins to move towards R13 to circle around the SW partial wall.
Rose Quest Day 10 Six Past Midnight (Co-DM Cayzle) ROUND ONE RESULTS Monday June 12th, 2017 5:59:18 PM
PARTY ACTIONS
Kiwina sets his longspear aside and says, "We have two minutes. I suggest we work in pairs to herd the roses into corners if they run from us. If you think a larger group works better, go for that. First group to pick a rose lets the others know so that the rest can leave off -- we only need one. Rolth and I are a bit faster, so I suggest we head for the one in the corner of that center hedge off to the right. Any other ideas?" However, the liontaur does not yet move out into the garden. Current position: T15
Rolth holsters his glaive and agrees with Kiwina’s plan. "Let us time our arrivals to coincide, with me coming from the left and you perpendicular to that. Hopefully they will continue to move slowly!" Rolth calls to the nearest rose to allow him to gently pluck it -- but the rose does not seem to have any way to hear you, nor a mouth to negotiate. Current position: V6
Finnian notices the roses are moving slowly and attempts to identify any other characteristics. He then moves quickly to P12. Current position: P12
Gothruk does a double move, with a weapon in hand. Where? DM decides ... Current position: U10
Tsak Rezar blurts out that the roses are moving and questions about how fast they can move and about the smaller walls. He then waits for the others, just in case. Current position: V15
Sable notices the slow movements and remembers that roses love bonemeal. He double moves to X12 as he fumbles for his sharpening stone. Current position: X12
Falco seeks to ask the Dryad, “Would you consider slowing one of them down with color spray to be an attack by any chance?” However, the fey lady has stayed behind, outside the gate, and you cannot see or hear her. Your intuition is that if you stepped out for a chat, there would be no coming back in. Falco thinks about casting a light cantrip, but he has moved 40 feet already, a double move for a halfling, and there is no time left this round to cast. Current position: R13
Positions at this point in the round are noted on the “1 top” tab of the spreadsheet.
ROSE ACTIONS
Those of you who saw that the roses could move slowly on their little viney legs now see that they can also move quickly at need be! You judge that they can move 30 ft as a move action, 60 feet with a double move.
And you note that the roses seem very shy! They move away from you at speed. Positions at this point in the round are noted on the “1 bot” tab of the spreadsheet. USE THIS SHEET to see current positions and to plan your moves!
Note that at this scale, you have to be IN a rose’s space to pick it, unless you are a minotaur with 10 ft natural reach. If you have just five ft of move left at some point, that’s not enough to enter a square. Also, you cannot move on the diagonal if there is a corner of a wall in the way, for example, P12 to O11.
Kiwina (Steve M) (16/16 HP | AC:14; Touch:11; Flat:12; CMD:15) | Status: None Monday June 12th, 2017 7:53:08 PM
Based on Rolth's agreement and movement, Kiwina moves towards the rose he intended (reaching AA-9 with a double move). He heard other ideas, though, so listens in case the others reach a different consensus.
Rolth Niheow (MarkBat) (16/16 HP | AC: 14; Touch: 11; Flat: 12; CMD: 17) | Glaive +3 1d10+4 x3 | Paws (2) +1 1d4+1 x2| Status: None Monday June 12th, 2017 10:23:31 PM
Rolth says to Kiwina, "Looks like a new plan, Bridge Brother, let's herd them up and to the left!" Impulsive as usual, he doesn't wait to see whether Kiwina agrees, but begins moving toward the four roses to the left, ending in square R4 (move action), and readies a pluck should a rose move close enough (standard action to ready a move action.) He calls out to the others, "Remember, the Lady said no attacks, just gentle plucking tonight!"
Gothruk Gore (Logan) AC 12 (T11/F10) 12/12HP |Guisarme +3 2D6+4| Status: None Monday June 12th, 2017 10:34:34 PM
Gothruk moves 60 ft forward and around to the left to tile S5.
Sable (Don) (15/15 HP | AC: 15/17; Touch: 11; Flat: 13/15; CMD: 18) | Status: Stern Tuesday June 13th, 2017 3:26:14 AM
Sable finishes drawing his whetstone and proceeds to sharpen his horns, starting a pile of bonemeal he hopes will attract a rose or two.
Tsak Rezar (Damien) AC15 (T13/F12) 12/12 HP| Falchion +4 2D4+3|Status: None Tuesday June 13th, 2017 5:29:23 AM
Tsak will make a double move forward to Q14 with the intention of forming a barrier alongside Finnian and Falco. He has his sword sheathed and his arms spread wide.
[OOC - I added Kiwina's move, based on his description, to the map but it seems an awful long way. Can someone please confirm or deny?]
[OOC from Cayzle: Double move for Kiwini should be 80 ft or 8 spaces.]
Falco Ambersier (Ryan M) (7/7 HP | AC: 13; Touch: 13; Flat: 11; CMD: 12) | 7/7 Acid Dart | Lt Crossbow +3 1d6 x2 | Status: None Tuesday June 13th, 2017 7:07:00 AM
Falco slows down a bit, calming down, and cast light on the sleeve of his robe in the hope of attracting a rose to him and moves in a bit.
[b] "Keep spreading out Keeping them in a small area will help us.
[Cast light and a single move to P13]
Finnian (Zeke) (HP:11/11; AC: 16; Touch: 13; Flat: 13; CMD: 17) d20+6=21 ; Tuesday June 13th, 2017 11:04:50 AM
Now that his bow is stashed Finnian is able to move more quietly through the garden. He rounds the corner and sees a rose. He begins to move toward the rose but is slowed by his attempt to keep quiet.
[Double move at half speed to F10]
Rose Quest Day 10 Six Past Midnight (Co-DM Cayzle) ROUND TWO RESULTS Tuesday June 13th, 2017 5:04:41 PM
PARTY ACTIONS
Kiwina makes a double move and then listens to the others as they discuss ideas. Current position: Y10 [OOC: By my calculation, you can only reach Y-10 with 80 feet of move]
Rolth suggests, "Looks like a new plan, Bridge Brother, let's herd them up and to the left!" He moves toward the four roses on the left then readies a pluck. He calls out to the others, "Remember, the Lady said no attacks, just gentle plucking tonight!" Current position: R4
Gothruk moves 60 ft forward and around to the left Current position: S5
Sable finishes drawing his whetstone and sharpens his horns. He tries to attract the roses with bonemeal. Current position: X12
Tsak Rezar makes a double move forward and attempts to form a barrier alongside Finnian and Falco. Current position: Q14
Falco Falco slows down a bit, calming down, and cast light on the sleeve of his robe in the hope of attracting a rose to him and moves in a bit. Says, "Keep spreading out Keeping them in a small area will help us. Current position: P13
Finnian Now that his bow is stashed Finnian is able to move more quietly through the garden. He rounds the corner and sees a rose. He begins to move toward the rose but is slowed by his attempt to keep quiet. [OOC: I think you mean O10. Also, you could use stealth last time because you had cover peeking out from that wall. Now you have no cover or concealment, so you cannot use stealth.] Current position: O10
Positions at this point in the round are noted on the “2 PC Moves” tab of the spreadsheet.
ROSE ACTIONS
As you get close to the tricky roses, you note that they can also use the wuthdraw action to avoid AoOs as they scamper away from you! And so they do, striving to always be at least a move action away from your fast would-be pickers.
Not only that, but from the way the plants’ leaves quiver, you have the impressions (if you make a Sense Motive check vs DC10) that Highlight to display spoiler: {They are laughing at you!}
[OOC: Note that I have tinkered with the map. The first sheet shows your start and end positions for round 1. The second sheet shows the start and end positions for the roses in round 1. The third sheet shows your start and end positions for round 2. The fourth sheet shows the roses start and end positions for round 2.]
Note that at this scale, you have to be IN a rose’s space to pick it, unless you are a minotaur with 10 ft natural reach. If you have just five ft of move left at some point, that’s not enough to enter a square. Also, you cannot move on the diagonal if there is a corner of a wall in the way, for example, P12 to O11. If a rose moves past you in an adjacent square, there is a 50/50 chance you can make an AoO or use a readied action if you like (for minotaurs, no 50% check needed). If a rose moves through your square, no 50/50 roll is needed.
Kiwina (Steve M) (16/16 HP | AC:14; Touch:11; Flat:12; CMD:15) | Status: None Tuesday June 13th, 2017 7:44:23 PM OOC Addendum: Kiwina is a centaur in leather armor. His base speed is 50, so I had him going 10 squares on a double move. Yes, I noticed that he was referred to as a liontaur in the party actions, but took that as a typo.
Kiwina (Steve M) (16/16 HP | AC:14; Touch:11; Flat:12; CMD:15) | Status: None d20=16 ; Tuesday June 13th, 2017 8:01:43 PM
(Sense motive = 16)
Noticing the roses laughing at him, Kiwina slowed last round, unfortunately leaving him just short of reaching and plucking a rose this round. Annoyed with himself for not staying on task, he turns to join his friends in the left side of the room. (Double move to Q7 - 3 diagonal and 5 straight = 95' equivalent (?))
Rolth Niheow (MarkBat) (16/16 HP | AC: 14; Touch: 11; Flat: 12; CMD: 17) | Glaive +3 1d10+4 x3 | Paws (2) +1 1d4+1 x2| Status: None d20+2=19 ; Tuesday June 13th, 2017 8:12:11 PM
(Sense motive = 19 to see the roses laughing at us)
Rolth smiles a predator's smile as he moves to trap the rose in the upper corner. [Move action to end in O5] Not long now, unless this wily shrubbery comes up with some new trick. "We'll see who gets the last laugh now. Of course, who would have expected roses to walk about, other than the Eight-Petaled Roses!" he thinks to himself.
Falco Ambersier (Ryan M) (7/7 HP | AC: 13; Touch: 13; Flat: 11; CMD: 12) | 7/7 Acid Dart | Lt Crossbow +3 1d6 x2 | Status: None Wednesday June 14th, 2017 6:41:56 AM
Falco moves closer to the wall and readies himself incase a rose attempts to flee this direction.
Slipper little buggers aren't they.
[Single move to O12, readied action to try and grab a rose that passes to close]
Gothruk Gore (Logan) AC 12 (T11/F10) 12/12HP |Guisarme +3 2D6+4| Status: None Wednesday June 14th, 2017 8:06:41 AM
Gothruk will move 10ft to the left into R5 and stow his weapon under his backpack.
Tsak Rezar (Damien) AC15 (T13/F12) 12/12 HP| Falchion +4 2D4+3|Status: None d20=14 ; Wednesday June 14th, 2017 8:07:27 AM
[Sense Motive = 14 Success] Tsak moves along the outside wall to O14 and also readies himself in case a rose tries to flee between Falco and himself.
[OOC; created sheet for PC3 on the map. Still not sure about Kiwina's move, please check it... Added the bonemeal for Sable's cunning trap!]
Finnian (Zeke) (HP:11/11; AC: 16; Touch: 13; Flat: 13; CMD: 17) d20=15 ; Wednesday June 14th, 2017 12:11:25 PM
Seeing what Falco and Tsak are doing Finnian falls back a bit to hopefully allow the roses to come to them.
[OOC: double move to L12]
Sable (Don) (15/15 HP | AC: 15/17; Touch: 11; Flat: 13/15; CMD: 18) | Status: Stern d20+1=21 ; d20+4=23 ; Wednesday June 14th, 2017 3:56:42 PM
Sable also notes the flowers laughing at him (sense motive 21), but he carefully watches the closest (Perception 23) to try and see if it notices the bone meal treat -- he will continue to add to the pile, then ready an action to pluck if it gets close enough.
Rose Quest Day 10 Six Past Midnight (Co-DM Cayzle) ROUND THREE RESULTS Wednesday June 14th, 2017 9:01:45 PM
PARTY ACTIONS
OOC: UGH! Apologies for mixing up the party centaur and the party liontaur! My bad!
Kiwina notices the roses laughing. He is short of reaching and plucking a rose and is annoyed. He then joins the others on the left side. (Double move to Q7 - 3 diagonal and 5 straight = 95' equivalent = OK because he is a centaur!) Current position: Q7
Rolth smiles a predator’s smile and attempts to trap the rose in the upper corner. Current position: O5
Gothruk moves 10ft to the left and stows his weapon. Current position: R5
Is Sable still planning a trap with bonemeal ground from his own horn? He is! But he is actually also standing on it! He’s still learning about how traps work best. Current position: X12
Tsak Rezar moves along the outside wall and is ready to catch a rose if it fless Current position: O14
Falco moves closer to the wall and readies himself incase a rose attempts to flee his direction. Current position: O12
Finnian moves to be positioned if a rose comes his way. Current position: O10
Positions at this point in the round are noted on the “3 PC Moves” tab of the spreadsheet.
ROSE ACTIONS
Rolth, with a hunter’s instinct, has a suspicion that these roses have a trick up their sleeves ... uh, stems. And so it proves! Just when you seem to have Roses 1, 2, 3, and 4 trapped in a corner, they dash up to the walls that surround the meadow. You note now that the walls are faintly carved with a pattern of branch and rose. The walking roses dash into the wall itself ... and pop out on the other side of the garden!
Roses 5, 6, and 8 give up all pretense at simple wandering and hop up and down in delight. They hop toward you, as if taunting you.
All except Rose 7, which seems intrigued with Sable. It creeps a little closer, but it hesitates to come in range of the minotaur.
Note that at this scale, you have to be IN a rose’s space to pick it, unless you are a minotaur with 10 ft natural reach. If you have just five ft of move left at some point, that’s not enough to enter a square. Also, you cannot move on the diagonal if there is a corner of a wall in the way, for example, P12 to O11. If a rose moves past you in an adjacent square, there is a 50/50 chance you can make an AoO or use a readied action if you like (for minotaurs, no 50% check needed). If a rose moves through your square, no 50/50 roll is needed.
Rose Quest Day 10 Six Past Midnight (Co-DM Cayzle) ROUND THREE RESULTS Wednesday June 14th, 2017 9:08:26 PM
OOC to Steve: Your email was down/blocked, FYI.
Kiwina (Steve M) (16/16 HP | AC:14; Touch:11; Flat:12; CMD:15) | Status: None Wednesday June 14th, 2017 10:48:11 PM
Seeing that he will not be able to chase down a rose, Kiwina pulls out his waterskin, opens it, and tosses it about halfway to rose R6. "I have heard it said that, 'A thorn defends the rose, harming only those who would steal the blossom.' What thorns do you think these roses have?"
Kiwina wants the waterskin in the U7 area. I assume unstoppering is free -- if not then he will start the above series of actions.
Tsak Rezar (Damien) AC15 (T13/F12) 12/12 HP| Falchion +4 2D4+3|Status: None Thursday June 15th, 2017 6:36:09 AM
Tsak makes a double move and runs and jumps at the wall to see if the magic wall will transport him too. He runs on the diagonal jumping at square L11, hoping to arrive at square AH10 (either that or on his butt at L10 if it just so happens he's a muggle)
Gothruk Gore (Logan) AC 12 (T11/F10) 12/12HP |Guisarme +3 2D6+4| Status: None Thursday June 15th, 2017 7:23:03 AM
Gothruk will whirl around and charge towards the Rose in V3 moving to square U4 he'll try and pluck it. He's a Minotaur and so has 10ft reach so hopefully he can grab the cheeky flower before it can react and run away.
Falco Ambersier (Ryan M) (7/7 HP | AC: 13; Touch: 13; Flat: 11; CMD: 12) | 7/7 Acid Dart | Lt Crossbow +3 1d6 x2 | Status: None Thursday June 15th, 2017 7:56:11 AM "Well they are creative I will give them that. I wonder just how smart they are?"
"Companions, I am little use in this chase with my short legs. If someone would like to try that potion I will hand it over."
Falco reverses course back into the room and readies the potion in case anyone wants to use it.
Rolth Niheow (MarkBat) (16/16 HP | AC: 14; Touch: 11; Flat: 12; CMD: 17) | Glaive +3 1d10+4 x3 | Paws (2) +1 1d4+1 x2| Status: None Thursday June 15th, 2017 8:07:31 AM
Staying clear of the waterskin, Rolth double moves to X6 and waits to see what happens with the two lures.
Sable (Don) (15/15 HP | AC: 15/17; Touch: 11; Flat: 13/15; CMD: 18) | Status: Stern Thursday June 15th, 2017 12:06:58 PM
Sable moves back 1 square and readies an action to gently pluck a flower.
Finnian (Zeke) (HP:11/11; AC: 16; Touch: 13; Flat: 13; CMD: 17) Thursday June 15th, 2017 2:55:19 PM
Finnian moves to the wall and hides hoping that one of the roses will accidentally move into a square near him.
[oocy hard drive failes last night so I have been working on my computer today, xan someone move me to Q 10]
Rose Quest Day 10 Six Past Midnight (Co-DM Cayzle) TOP OF ROUND FOUR RESULTS Thursday June 15th, 2017 11:02:27 PM
This DM Post has been RETCONNED! Please see below for the actual Round 4 post!
Gothruk Gore (Logan) AC 12 (T11/F10) 12/12HP |Guisarme +3 2D6+4| Status: None Thursday June 15th, 2017 11:48:29 PM
I didn't mean physical charging! I mean it as a description. It was only a standard move!
Falco becomes more cautious as the garden comes to life. Potion in hand he holds his position attempting to at least secure the narrow area he is currently in.
Kiwina (Steve M) (16/16 HP | AC:14; Touch:11; Flat:12; CMD:15) | Status: None d20+4=17 ; d20+7=13 ; Friday June 16th, 2017 7:12:34 AM
Reflex save = 17
Kiwina is taken aback by this turn of events and keeps his eyes on the nearer roses,, expecting to see them unhampered (perception = 13 to see effect on roses).
Falco Ambersier (Ryan M) (7/7 HP | AC: 13; Touch: 13; Flat: 11; CMD: 12) | 7/7 Acid Dart | Lt Crossbow +3 1d6 x2 | Status: None Friday June 16th, 2017 10:24:14 AM
[ooc: Sorry for the double post. I did not sweep myself as I was waiting on a ruling as to if there was actually a charge.]
Rose Quest Day 10 Six Past Midnight (Co-DM Cayzle) ROUND FOUR RETCON d100=60 ; Friday June 16th, 2017 12:55:41 PM
Please ignore the prior post. THIS is the Round Four Post!
PARTY ACTIONS
Kiwina pulls out his waterskin, opens it, and tosses it about halfway to rose R6. "I have heard it said that, 'A thorn defends the rose, harming only those who would steal the blossom.' What thorns do you think these roses have?" Current position: Q7
Rolth Staying clear of the waterskin, Rolth double moves to X6 and waits to see what happens with the two lures. Current position: X6
Gothruk will whirl around and charge towards the Rose in V3 moving to square U4 he'll try and pluck it. He's a Minotaur and so has 10ft reach so hopefully he can grab the cheeky flower before it can react and run away. Current position: U4 Gothruk’s sudden move toward the rose takes him from R5 to S4 (15 move), then to T4 (+10 move), then to U4 (+10 move, total move 35 ft, requiring two move actions). He wishes he could gently pick it, but he is out of time for this round.
Is Sable moves back 1 square and readies an action to gently pluck a flower. The boney treat is left behind as a lure. Current position: X11.
Tsak Rezar makes a double move and runs and jumps at the wall to see if the magic wall will transport him too. He runs on the diagonal jumping at square L11, hoping to arrive at square AH10 (either that or on his butt at L10 if it just so happens he's a muggle). Alas, he does not go through the wall! It must be magic! Current position: L10
Falco "Well they are creative I will give them that. I wonder just how smart they are?" "Companions, I am little use in this chase with my short legs. If someone would like to try that potion I will hand it over." Falco reverses course back into the room and readies the potion in case anyone wants to use it. Current position: Q12
Finnian moves against the wall, hoping to trap a rose that walks by. Current position: O10
Positions at this point in the round are noted on the “4 PC Moves” tab of the spreadsheet.
===== ===== =====
ROSE ACTIONS
Roses 1, 3, and 4 seem content to hop up and down, as if to say, “Here we are!”
Rose 2 pops out from behind a wall for a peek.
Rose 5 scampers away from Gothruk to the north and west. With his reach, he could make an AoO on one as it goes by, but that would have to be an attack.
Roses 6 and 8 scatter away from Rolth. Was Rose 6 right next to Rolth? Rolling a 50/50 chance, low is a yes, and ... 60%, so no, it was not in hsi reach at any point sufficient to provoke an AoO.
Rose 7 inches closer to Sable’s delicious (he hopes) bonemeal fertilizer. But it stays just out of reach-and-pick range.
-- Note that at this scale, you have to be IN a rose’s space to pick it, unless you are a minotaur with 10 ft natural reach. If you have just five ft of move left at some point, that’s not enough to enter a square. Also, you cannot move on the diagonal if there is a corner of a wall in the way, for example, P12 to O11. If a rose moves past you in an adjacent square, there is a 50/50 chance you can make an AoO or use a readied action if you like (for minotaurs, no 50% check needed). If a rose moves through your square, no 50/50 roll is needed.
Finnian (Zeke) (HP:11/11; AC: 16; Touch: 13; Flat: 13; CMD: 17) d20+5=14 ; d20=19 ; Friday June 16th, 2017 7:38:14 PM
[OOC I guess I don't need the 14 reflex save, Also my computer is back up and running so I can move my on my own. Thanks to whoever moved me.]
"Oh boy" Finnian think to himself. I can't believe I am about to do this. Maybe they can be lulled."
Finnian Steps out from behind the wall and begins to sing a song that his aunt used to sing him to sleep.
"Every Rose has its thorn Just like every night has its dawn Just like every cowboy sings his sad, sad song Every rose has its thorn"
[Perform Sing=19]
Rolth Niheow (MarkBat) (16/16 HP | AC: 14; Touch: 11; Flat: 12; CMD: 17) | Glaive +3 1d10+4 x3 | Paws (2) +1 1d4+1 x2| Status: None d100=94 ; Friday June 16th, 2017 10:28:58 PM
Rolth calls out, "Two lines, left and right, and move towards those walls in concert!" He then moves to take up a position at AB8 (move action), and just in case he is lucky, attempts to pluck Rose 6 (2nd move action), but the rose is just out of reach. (d100 = 94, miss!)
Kiwina (Steve M) (16/16 HP | AC:14; Touch:11; Flat:12; CMD:15) | Status: None Friday June 16th, 2017 10:46:31 PM
Kiwina double moves to P13 (2 diagonal, 3 straight, 1 diagonal = 75'), saying to Falco, "Mount up."
Sable (Don) (15/15 HP | AC: 15/17; Touch: 11; Flat: 13/15; CMD: 18) | Status: Stern d20-1=7 ; Saturday June 17th, 2017 4:41:31 AM
Sable moves 20' back again, hoping that his moves of 20' make it seem as if that is his top speed. (Bluff - 7). He will pull out his fishing net and wait.
Gothruk Gore (Logan) AC 12 (T11/F10) 12/12HP |Guisarme +3 2D6+4| Status: None Saturday June 17th, 2017 10:54:49 AM
Gothruk uses a double move 60ft to get to AA4. He's busy looking around trying to make sense of this puzzle.
Tsak Rezar (Damien) AC15 (T13/F12) 12/12 HP| Falchion +4 2D4+3|Status: None d20=5 ; Saturday June 17th, 2017 9:57:00 PM
Tsak will make a double move to L4, maybe a rose will drop in his lap? Faintly he can hear Finnian's song across the meadow... Does Tsak know any songs about roses? Why yes, it seems he does... [Perform Sing = 5, perhaps his singing will scare the roses toward the other players...] Some say love, it is a river, that drowns the tender reed Some say love, it is a razor, that leaves your soul to bleed Some say love, it is a hunger, an endless aching need I say love, it is a flower, and you, its only seed
Falco Ambersier (Ryan M) (7/7 HP | AC: 13; Touch: 13; Flat: 11; CMD: 12) | 7/7 Acid Dart | Lt Crossbow +3 1d6 x2 | Status: None d20+2=22 ; Monday June 19th, 2017 8:34:02 AM
Falco just stares for a moment, caught off guard by Kiwian and then hops on his back as though this was the most common thing in the world. [Ride Check 20+2=22]
"Thank you. I normally consider my size an advantage but in this large room I am a touch slow."
Rose Quest Day 10 Six Past Midnight (Co-DM Cayzle) ROUND FIVE Monday June 19th, 2017 10:39:34 PM PARTY ACTIONS
Kiwina moves and asks Falco to mount up. Current position: P13
Falco hops on Kiwina’s back easily. They are now one. Then says, "Thank you. I normally consider my size an advantage but in this large room I am a touch slow." Current position: WITH KIWINA. Marked as KF on the map.
Rolth calls out, "Two lines, left and right, and move towards those walls in concert!" and attempts to pluck Rose 6 but it is just out of reach. Current position: AB8
Gothruk moves and tries to make sense of the puzzle. Current position: AA4
Sable moves back twenty feet hoping that the twenty foot moves make is seem like he is at top speed. He waits with a fishing net. Current position: X11.
Tsak Rezar moves and hopes a rose will drop into his lap. He can hear Finnian’s singing and tries to sing another but the words just don’t come out right. The nearest flower R5 shivers in dismay. Current position: L4
Finnian starts to sing and original song in the Wold. :) Current position: O10
Positions at this point in the round are noted on the “5 PC Moves” tab of the spreadsheet.
===== ===== =====
ROSE ACTIONS
Roses 1, 3, and 4 head South
Rose 2 follows the others South
Rose 5 runs back toward Gothruk, away from the singing of Tsak
Roses 6 runs toward the Northern most wall with Rose 8 going West
Rose 7 moves toward Finnian attracted by the song but the bonemeal is very attractive too so it is conflicted and also suspicious of any movement.
Positions at this point in the round are noted on the “5 Rose Moves” tab of the spreadsheet.
-- Note that at this scale, you have to be IN a rose’s space to pick it, unless you are a minotaur with 10 ft natural reach. If you have just five ft of move left at some point, that’s not enough to enter a square. Also, you cannot move on the diagonal if there is a corner of a wall in the way, for example, P12 to O11. If a rose moves past you in an adjacent square, there is a 50/50 chance you can make an AoO or use a readied action if you like (for minotaurs, no 50% check needed). If a rose moves through your square, no 50/50 roll is needed.
Kiwina (Steve M) (16/16 HP | AC:14; Touch:11; Flat:12; CMD:15) | Status: None Monday June 19th, 2017 11:03:10 PM
As he moves to roughly the center of the left half of the room, Kiwina tells Falco, "It occurred to me that you might have an advantage over me in plucking a rose although I have an advantage chasing them, if we are patient."
Tsak Rezar (Damien) AC15 (T13/F12) 12/12 HP| Falchion +4 2D4+3|Status: None Tuesday June 20th, 2017 5:26:21 AM
Tsak moves along the wall to L7 and readies himself to pluck any rose that appears near him.
Rolth Niheow (MarkBat) (16/16 HP | AC: 14; Touch: 11; Flat: 12; CMD: 17) | Glaive +3 1d10+4 x3 | Paws (2) +1 1d4+1 x2| Status: None d20+10=25 ; Tuesday June 20th, 2017 8:30:11 AM
Rolth advances to AF9, and puts on a fierce show in an attempt to scare at least rose 2 through the wall. (Intimidate = 25 if needed)
Finnian (Zeke) (HP:11/11; AC: 16; Touch: 13; Flat: 13; CMD: 17) d20=4 ; Tuesday June 20th, 2017 10:11:56 AM
Finnian, not wanting to, scare the roses any more, slowly sits down onto the soft ground. He continues to sing the lullaby.
"We both lie silently still In the dead of the night Although we both lie close together We feel miles apart inside Was it something I said or something I did Did the words not come out right Though I tried not to hurt you Though I tried But I guess that's why they say"
He continues into chorus with more pride now that his plan seems to be having some effect.
[OOC: I rolled another perform check but I am hoping that my last perform check can role over if not its a 4]
Falco Ambersier (Ryan M) (7/7 HP | AC: 13; Touch: 13; Flat: 11; CMD: 12) | 7/7 Acid Dart | Lt Crossbow +3 1d6 x2 | Status: None Tuesday June 20th, 2017 10:36:33 AM
Falco, not fully comfortable with the idea of being on the back of his companion, waits for Kiwina to get close enough to a rose for him to dismount and attempt to grab.
"An excellent plan and I appreciate you assisting with my lack of speed."
[ooc= I cannot wait to lean Haste, this party will be crazy fast.]
Gothruk Gore (Logan) AC 12 (T11/F10) 12/12HP |Guisarme +3 2D6+4| Status: None Tuesday June 20th, 2017 2:45:26 PM
Gothruk will move a double move to AC/2.
That should prevent any from sneaking past me. Around the top of the map at least
Sable (Don) (15/15 HP | AC: 15/17; Touch: 11; Flat: 13/15; CMD: 18) | Status: Stern Tuesday June 20th, 2017 6:50:55 PM
Sable waits patiently for the rose to take the bait, if one moves within 10' he will pluck it. Otherwise, will wait to see if they move within 40' (he will wait for them to stop moving to measure this last distance). Waiting until he can move then pluck in the same turn.
Matthew S. Co-DM - Rose Quest Day 10 Six Past Midnight (Co-DM Cayzle) ROUND SIX d20=7 ; d20=20 ; d20=3 ; Tuesday June 20th, 2017 9:40:37 PM PARTY ACTIONS
Kiwina says, "It occurred to me that you might have an advantage over me in plucking a rose although I have an advantage chasing them, if we are patient." while moving. Current position: Q8
Falco is not comfortable being atop Kiwina but waits to get close enough to get close enough to dismount and grab a rose. Current position:
Rolth moves and attempts to scare Rose 2 Current position: AB8
Gothruk makes a double move Current position: AC2
Sable waits for the rose to take the bait. Hoping that one moves within 10’. Otherwise, will wait to see if they move within 40' (he will wait for them to stop moving to measure this last distance). Waiting until he can move then pluck in the same turn. Current position: X9.
Tsak Rezar moves along the wall and readies to pluck a rose that approaches Current position: L7
Finnian continues to sing making it too the chorus. (OOC: Assuming you moved to U13- per map) Current position: U13
Positions at this point in the round are noted on the “6 PC Moves” tab of the spreadsheet.
===== ===== =====
ROSE ACTIONS
Roses 1, 3, and 4 begin to move West
Rose 2 shoots North, frightened beyond belief by Rolth and shaken for 1 round. Rose 6 also jumps upward toward Gothruk
Rose 5 and Rose 8 stand next to each other. Perception vs DC 15 Highlight to display spoiler: { Strange, the two Roses seem to be talking to each other. Communicating with tiny little shakes. If you could only hear them }
Rose 7 is very curious. Finnian’s singing is curious but the bone meal is more interesting. He moves 10 feet from the bone meal and looks suspiciously around. It doesn’t seem to see anything but the bone meal.
Positions at this point in the round are noted on the “6 Rose Moves” tab of the spreadsheet.
-- Note that at this scale, you have to be IN a rose’s space to pick it, unless you are a minotaur with 10 ft natural reach. If you have just five ft of move left at some point, that’s not enough to enter a square. Also, you cannot move on the diagonal if there is a corner of a wall in the way, for example, P12 to O11. If a rose moves past you in an adjacent square, there is a 50/50 chance you can make an AoO or use a readied action if you like (for minotaurs, no 50% check needed). If a rose moves through your square, no 50/50 roll is needed. (OOC: I moved the Round 6 Tabs up front to make them easier to get too.) Here is the map!
Rolth Niheow (MarkBat) (16/16 HP | AC: 14; Touch: 11; Flat: 12; CMD: 17) | Glaive +3 1d10+4 x3 | Paws (2) +1 1d4+1 x2| Status: None d20+7=15 ; Tuesday June 20th, 2017 10:00:45 PM
Rolth looks around suspiciously, because this is the first time that a rose has stopped within reach. Some sort of thorny trap? He just sees roses 5 and 8 talking to each other, which seems perfectly natural. (Perception = 15) This just makes him more suspicious. "No wait, MORE THAN ONE ROSE IS WITHIN REACH," he realizes.
He calls out to the party, "Remember, we must not be greedy, take only one! When you do, call out loudly, so that we do not unwittingly desecrate this place." He then moves to into AD12, and if no one has already plucked a rose, he will avoid the thorns that the singers so recently reminded him of, whisper a thanks to the rose one, and pluck it gently.
Rolth will of course heed his own advice and call out loudly re his success if he is indeed the first to pluck a 🌹
Sable (Don) (15/15 HP | AC: 15/17; Touch: 11; Flat: 13/15; CMD: 18) | Status: Stern d20+6=25 ; d20+4=7 ; Wednesday June 21st, 2017 1:44:05 AM
Sable nods his understanding when Rolth makes his suggestion, he will move to Y11 and ready an action to gently pluck rose 7 if Rolth is unsuccessful (does not call out success). If Sable is successful in plucking his rose, he will call out.
If Sable does get a rose, Sable will smile and indicate R7 should continue to eat the meal.
Sable also notes the two flowers (Perception 25), but their strange communications behavior is outside his knowledge of the natural world (Knowledge Nature=7).
In a less rushed scenario, Sable would prefer to make friends with the rose - perhaps someday having one as his willing companion rather than captive. "I wish we could be friends", Sable says softly to R7.
Tsak Rezar (Damien) AC15 (T13/F12) 12/12 HP| Falchion +4 2D4+3|Status: None d20+5=13 ; Wednesday June 21st, 2017 6:34:59 AM
[Perception = 13 FAIL] Things seem to be going well for the rest of the team, Tsak stays still and quiet, ready should a rose try the wall trick again and pop out somewhere at his end of the meadow. Off to the side a pair of roses seem to be communicating somehow, but it's too far away and to faint for Tsak to make anything out.
Kiwina (Steve M) (16/16 HP | AC:14; Touch:11; Flat:12; CMD:15) | Status: None Wednesday June 21st, 2017 7:09:35 AM
Kiwina moves to the pair of roses along the wall opposite the entrance, trusting Falco to monitor what the others are doing so as not to pluck a second rose.
Double move to T2 = 75'
Falco Ambersier (Ryan M) (7/7 HP | AC: 13; Touch: 13; Flat: 11; CMD: 12) | 7/7 Acid Dart | Lt Crossbow +3 1d6 x2 | Status: None d20+2=5 ; Wednesday June 21st, 2017 9:07:36 AM
[Perception: 3+2=5]
Falco maintains his position waiting to see how things resolve for Rolth think that it seem to easy if they caught one already.
Finnian (Zeke) (HP:11/11; AC: 16; Touch: 13; Flat: 13; CMD: 17) d20+6=23 ; d20=18 ; Wednesday June 21st, 2017 2:30:19 PM
Finnian hears Roth's instructions and thinks that they sound like a good idea. Not knowing what else to do he continues his tune, humming the next verse, and then singing the chorus. He begins to sway a bit to the music. [perception 23] hmm they seem to be comunicating somehow, wouldn't it be fascinating to know what they are saying? Finnian thinks to himself.
[perform 18]
Gothruk Gore (Logan) AC 12 (T11/F10) 12/12HP |Guisarme +3 2D6+4| Status: None Wednesday June 21st, 2017 4:58:52 PM
Gothruk shall dart (absolutely no charging going on here) forward into square AF2 and catch Rose 6 as it attempts to run away from Rolth. If he hears a party member yelling that they've caught a rose than he shall instead simply stand there.
If for whatever reason he cannot get to that square and a rose has bot been captured he'll get as close as possible in a single move and ready an action to pluck a rose if one comes within reach.
If he does manage to get his hands on a rose he'll make sure to inform the others that we've succeeded.
Rose Quest Day 10 Six Past Midnight (Co-DM Cayzle) Rose In Hand! Wednesday June 21st, 2017 7:30:30 PM
Kiwina moves to the pair of roses along the wall opposite the entrance, trusting Falco to monitor what the others are doing so as not to pluck a second rose. Current position: T2 -- Roses 5 and 8 stare up at the centaur, they are a bit shaken by Kiwina’s size. They then begin to twitch and wiggle, as if talking nervously.
Falco waits to see what the results are with Rolth’s Rose interaction. Current position: T2
Gothruk moves closer and is ready to pick a flower if no one else does. Current position: AF2
Sable waits to see what happens with Rolth while moving to Rose 7. He also whispers to Rose 7, which startles the Rose. -- Rose 7, oblivious to anything but the bonemeal, begins to dig its roots into the fertilizer. Current position: Y11.
Tsak Rezar stays quiet and continues to wait. Current position: L7
Finnian hears Rolth’s instructions and waits. He continues to hum the next verse and begins to sway. Current position: U13
Rolth looks around suspiciously suspecting a trap, warns the others to declare they picked a Rose then moves to pluck one. Current position: AB8 -- Rose 1 seems to squeak a bit as it notices Rolth above it. The other R3 and R4 scatter. R4 heads toward Sable and R3 North. Rose 1 stands in place as Rolth picks it. But because he is gentle, Rolth does not grab the rose's sharp thorns.
As soon as Rolth picks a rose, the other roses dive into the wall and disappear!
You are standing in the meadow, and Rolth is holding a rose! Congratulations. The challenge is complete, so no need for a map.
Rolth Niheow (MarkBat) (16/16 HP | AC: 14; Touch: 11; Flat: 12; CMD: 17) | Glaive +3 1d10+4 x3 | Paws (2) +1 1d4+1 x2| Status: None d20+7=12 ; Wednesday June 21st, 2017 8:49:22 PM
Rolth calls out his success, again thanks the rose for joining our quest, then praises Tomi for guiding our way thus far. He gently tries to tuck the rose inside his vest, if that seems workable. For the DMsHighlight to display spoiler: {It goes into his magic concealed pocket, assuming it fits without risk of damage.}
He then suggests that the Petals form up into our outdoor marching order, before peering out of the exit, looking for signs of trouble to avoid walking into an ambush. Rock, Tovalt, or others could cause mischief! (Perception = 12)
Kiwina (Steve M) (16/16 HP | AC:14; Touch:11; Flat:12; CMD:15) | Status: None Wednesday June 21st, 2017 9:14:15 PM
"Let's show Cassia the rose," Kiwina says. On the way to the exit, he picks up his waterskin, after emptying any water remaining in it on the floor for the roses. As they exit, he also picks up his spear. "You know, I doubt that Cassia would let anyone stick around, but there could be trouble further on."
Sable (Don) (15/15 HP | AC: 15/17; Touch: 11; Flat: 13/15; CMD: 18) | Status: Stern d20+6=17 ; Thursday June 22nd, 2017 2:38:06 AM
Sable is happy to leave the bonemeal behind for the roses to enjoy. He is eager to move out for the next phase of the adventure - once out of the garden, he takes up his position. He also scans the area for danger (Perception - 17/19 vs. favored enemy)
Falco Ambersier (Ryan M) (7/7 HP | AC: 13; Touch: 13; Flat: 11; CMD: 12) | 7/7 Acid Dart | Lt Crossbow +3 1d6 x2 | Status: None Thursday June 22nd, 2017 8:05:16 AM "Wow, we get to keep the potion? Amazing!! Thank you for the help my friend, one day soon I will craft you a weapon in return."
An obviously excited Falco hops off and rushes back to the others. It is hard for me to believe we pulled that off. I think we are going to be a team to be reckoned with although something makes me thinks the gods will make this come down to the wire.
Tsak Rezar (Damien) AC15 (T13/F12) 12/12 HP| Falchion +4 2D4+3|Status: None d20+5=7 ; Thursday June 22nd, 2017 9:28:26 AM
Tsak will take up his place in the marching order, congratulating his teammates on their fine work. He too is keeping an eye out for trouble [perception=7] but finding it hard to concentrate with all the excitement.
Finnian (Zeke) (HP:11/11; AC: 16; Touch: 13; Flat: 13; CMD: 17) Thursday June 22nd, 2017 1:29:59 PM
Finnian slowly comes too after finishing the song and hears his companion exclaim that he caught a rose. excellent he thinks to himself as he slowly raises. We cab leave the glade victorious He retrieves his bow from his pack and falls into libe with the otheres.
"what a beautiful place this is," he says aloud, but to no one in particular.
Gothruk Gore (Logan) AC 12 (T11/F10) 12/12HP |Guisarme +3 2D6+4| Status: None Thursday June 22nd, 2017 5:32:10 PM
Gothruk will give the rose in front of him a good natured pat on the head as it moves towards the wall. Ha, we beat you in the end you tiny cheeky plants. He thinks to himself. He'll take his Guisarme back into his hands as he form up with the others. Usually the most effective way to prevent a fight is to look prepared and we don't want any fighting between adventurer groups to darken this victory. A great beginning to our saga! Let us make our way to our next challenge!
Matthew S. Co-DM - Rose Quest Day 10 A little after Midnight (Co-DM Cayzle) Thursday June 22nd, 2017 7:39:52 PM Rolth calls out his success to the others. He tucks the rose inside a pocket in his vest. He suggests the Petals move out and searches for mischief. Kiwina wants to show Cassia the rose. He picks up his waterskin and his spear. Then adds, "You know, I doubt that Cassia would let anyone stick around, but there could be trouble further on." Sable leaves the bonemeal and is eager to move on to the next adventure. Gothruk attempts to capture a Rose but stops when he hears them yell. Falco says, "Wow, we get to keep the potion? Amazing!! Thank you for the help my friend, one day soon I will craft you a weapon in return." He then hops off and rushes to the others. Tsak Rezar congratulates the others, looks for trouble but finds it hard to concentrate. Finnian finishes his song and hears that the others caught a rose. He grabs his bow and falls in line. --- Cassia is smiling on the other side of the garden gate. The vines and leaves slowly recall revealing her beautiful shape. “I’m so glad you thought it was beautiful.” She begins in a quick, excited tone. I told Tira I could do it but she didn’t believe me. I’m so excited you were able to entice a rose. My roses love gentle treatment and bonemeal and music. I was singing along with the sweet song.” She offers you a vial that will allow you to communicate with her friends (OOC: This is a druidic potion of Speak with Plants). “Congratulations,” she concludes, “and good luck!”
Rolth Niheow (MarkBat) (16/16 HP | AC: 14; Touch: 11; Flat: 12; CMD: 17) | Glaive +3 1d10+4 x3 | Paws (2) +1 1d4+1 x2| Status: None Thursday June 22nd, 2017 9:15:01 PM
"My Lady," Rolth begins, "you are as gracious as your floral friends are lovely. Pray tell us if there is any special care that the bloom we carry may need on our journey, as it may be somewhat long." He pauses to allow an answer if she graces us with one.
He then continues, "Speaking of long journeys, do you know of anything that might speed us on our way, so that my dear companion Kiwina might sooner complete this test and return to have the promised tea in the garden? We need to travel to Centaur Isle, methinks."
"For, alas, we must be off. If we do see Tira, we shall tell her what a fine job you have done this night! How would we know her if we were to meet her?"
Sable (Don) (15/15 HP | AC: 15/17; Touch: 11; Flat: 13/15; CMD: 18) | Status: Stern Friday June 23rd, 2017 3:31:56 AM
Sable patiently awaits the lady's answer and then prepares to move on.
Falco Ambersier (Ryan M) (7/7 HP | AC: 13; Touch: 13; Flat: 11; CMD: 12) | 7/7 Acid Dart | Lt Crossbow +3 1d6 x2 | Status: None Friday June 23rd, 2017 7:28:40 AM "Lady Cassia can you tell us how the other groups to come though have fared? If it is not to much information to give, I just worry... Well I would hate for some of those brutes like, like we were speaking to earlier, to hurt such lovely creatures. I am sure you can protect but it would easy my mind to know if the others have suceeded with out causing harm as we did."
Tsak Rezar (Damien) AC15 (T13/F12) 12/12 HP| Falchion +4 2D4+3|Status: None Friday June 23rd, 2017 7:50:36 AM
Tsak nods his best wishes to the dryad and moves to watch the way out as the rest of the team bid their goodbye. He keeps one hand on his blade when they make their exit.
Kiwina (Steve M) (16/16 HP | AC:14; Touch:11; Flat:12; CMD:15) | Status: None Friday June 23rd, 2017 10:07:51 AM
Kiwina is prepared to stay and talk to Cassia until the next group arrives, telling stories of his homeland and life on those islands. Hopefully learning a bit, too, such as more details on the proper way to care for a magical rose, a bit about the other groups she has seen, if she knows anything about the other dungeons, and her favorite song.
The roses seem to be very intelligent -- more so than some people Kiwina can think of. He wonders what they get out of this quest.
The others are free to return to their rooms now. Kiwina will catch up before they go to the docks in the morning to find a boat to the centaur island.
Finnian (Zeke) (HP:11/11; AC: 16; Touch: 13; Flat: 13; CMD: 17) Friday June 23rd, 2017 5:56:03 PM
Finnian stays behind with Kiwina for as long as he can trying to learn as much as he cab about the dryad.
[ooc sorry cant make a long post been working all day now driving to vacation]
Matthew S. Co-DM - Rose Quest Day 10 A little after Midnight (Co-DM Cayzle) Friday June 23rd, 2017 9:55:56 PM Rolth asks about special care for the Rose. Cassia responds, “You are so sweet,” she begins. “You will not need to care for the Rose you carry at all. It is safe within your pocket.” Cassia smiles, “Ah, tea in the Garden that would be so nice. You should join me for tea in the Garden.” She seems to of forgotten you’re interactions before entering the Garden. “Tira, is my sister and I love her,” she says with a dreamy look in her eyes. “You want to meet her, oh my.. Umm. She is lost. Has been for many years, I’m afraid.” Sable waits patently then prepares to move on Falco asks about other groups. “Oh Dear,” she begins. “I am not worried at all about the safety of my roses. They are well protected. I think.. There have been three groups.. Eww.. two.. No.. I’m sorry my memory fails me often. I’m afraid I cannot be much help.” Tsak Rezar nods and bids goodbye with his weapon at the ready. Kiwina is prepared to stay and talk to Cassia until the next group arrives. He hopes to talk about homeland and life and details about the roses. Finnian - NA Gothruk - NA
--- Another group of adventurers does file down the stairway. The gate is located near the stairway making the immediate room a bit crowded. This group is majority bi-pedal creatures along with a centaur standing in the back. They seem to get along with each other very well and are very excited to start this adventure. Cassia smiles and finds her way to the group. “Welcome, I will ask you four riddles, and for each riddle you answer correctly, you may enter and remain in the garden for half a minute. Answer all four and you may stay for two minutes, Fail to answer any and you may not enter at all. Be careful! Once you enter, if any one of you makes any attack while you are in the garden, then the garden will turn on you and try to expel you all! If you are expelled, you may not return! Here is the first riddle… "
Rolth Niheow (MarkBat) (16/16 HP | AC: 14; Touch: 11; Flat: 12; CMD: 17) | Glaive +3 1d10+4 x3 | Paws (2) +1 1d4+1 x2| Status: None d20+7=24 ; Friday June 23rd, 2017 10:10:59 PM
Rolth gives the Lady a final polite bow, salutes the newcomers, and suggests that the party make its exit from the area. As the Lady is busy with another group now, he will encourage Kiwina and Finnian to stay with the Petals. "After all, Rock, Tovalt, and their crews may still be in the area, and we will be safer together."
Once the party is away from the dungeon garden, Rolth will ask the others, "Well, to bed or to the ship? Either way, we must be on our guard. If we do take advantage of our host's hospitality for the night, let us stay together and set watches." Whatever the destination, as they move, Rolth will keep a wary eye and ear out for an ambush. (Perception = 24)
Tsak Rezar (Damien) AC15 (T13/F12) 12/12 HP| Falchion +4 2D4+3|Status: None Saturday June 24th, 2017 1:21:59 AM
Tsak is eager to get back on the boat and head to the next stage of the quest, although of course it would be rude not to thank their host. I vote we sleep the night here, thank the duke in the morning and set sail as soon as possible after that.
Sable (Don) (15/15 HP | AC: 15/17; Touch: 11; Flat: 13/15; CMD: 18) | Status: Stern Saturday June 24th, 2017 9:14:17 AM
Sable says "I vote we move on as fast as we can, we can always sleep on ship if one is ready to set sail. We can always take time to say goodbye to the Duke, in any case."
Sable says to Rolth, "I would like to make a closer examination of the rose, when we have time..."
Kiwina (Steve M) (16/16 HP | AC:14; Touch:11; Flat:12; CMD:15) | Status: None d20+7=27 ; Saturday June 24th, 2017 7:50:32 PM
Before answering Rolth's question, Kiwina ponders whether the tides would cause additional delay if they left later rather than now (professional sailor = 27). He does not want to appear rude to their host, but agrees that they could catch up on sleep on the ship.
"I assume we head to the centaur island next," he says.
Finnian (Zeke) (HP:11/11; AC: 16; Touch: 13; Flat: 13; CMD: 17) Sunday June 25th, 2017 1:25:56 PM "I believe that it would be rude to our hosts to leave without thanking him, but haste is needed," Finnian voices his opinion. "perhaps we could say our goodbyes and leave as soon after as we can."
When he gets a moment Finnian will congratulate Rolth on plucking the elusive rose.
Falco Ambersier (Ryan M) (7/7 HP | AC: 13; Touch: 13; Flat: 11; CMD: 12) | 7/7 Acid Dart | Lt Crossbow +3 1d6 x2 | Status: None Sunday June 25th, 2017 7:56:01 PM "I agree with Finnian, to leave without speaking with our host would be rude. There is also the hope that, if we spend the night, there is a chance for additional intelligence gathering."
Thinking about the rose - "I would also like to examine our self sustaining rose more closely someplace quiet and away from prying eyes."
Matthew S. Co-DM - Rose Quest Day 10 - 12:30 (Co-DM Cayzle) Monday June 26th, 2017 8:09:46 PM Rolth Niheow suggests they stick together. He asks for a decision on the next steps.
Tsak Rezar votes to sleep overnight and thank the duke in the morning.
Sable would like to take a look at the Rose and votes to sleep on the ship on their way to the new destination.
Kiwina ponders whether the tides would cause them some delays. He agrees with Sable about sleeping on the boat and wonders if they are heading to Centaur Isle next.
Finnian says, "I believe that it would be rude to our hosts to leave without thanking him, but haste is needed," Finnian voices his opinion. "perhaps we could say our goodbyes and leave as soon after as we can." He then congratulates Rolth on capturing the Rose.
Falco says, "I agree with Finnian, to leave without speaking with our host would be rude. There is also the hope that, if we spend the night, there is a chance for additional intelligence gathering." Thinking about the rose - "I would also like to examine our self sustaining rose more closely someplace quiet and away from prying eyes."
--- There is a discussion on what to do next and whether to stay or go now. A vote may be needed. Kiwina ponders the tides. Around Minotaur Isle the tides are relatively mild. A shake up now and then but generally good around the South. As a ship captain you would likely want to head South East around the island to avoid the rough seas the hover over Shipwreck Shoals. Leaving against the tide may make an already treacherous sail even more dangerous -- many captains will flat out refuse a night sail against the tide. A good captain may be willing to cut through the Safety Channel during the day but others would call you crazy to do it in the dark. For a price, though, you can find someone who is willing, always.
As The Petals head up the stairs to the main floor you can hear the voices of very late-night revelers laughing and carrying on about particularly funny stunt done by the lady ratfolk jester.
You remember that the Duke and his sage have gone to bed a couple hours ago. A minotaur, far too drunk to stand, approaches. “You look tired. You should rest, or drink. Either way..” he then laughs. “Oh, the Duke offered some potions to groups that stay overnight at the Castle. I thikn I sholud head to bde me self.” With that he stumbled and broke a small chair.
Sable (Don) (15/15 HP | AC: 15/17; Touch: 11; Flat: 13/15; CMD: 18) | Status: Stern Monday June 26th, 2017 8:24:02 PM
Sable says quietly to the party, "Given it is unadvisable to sail at night and we will not be able to say goodbye until the AM, let us wait to properly thank our host tomorrow. We may want to show him what we have found."
Sable pauses, then says, "Maybe our host can recommend the fastest path to the next island"
Matthew S. Co-DM - Welcome Lomocia! (Co-DM Cayzle) Monday June 26th, 2017 8:26:58 PM
An elf walks into the room. “Lomocia!” Shouts the minotaur. “Guys, gusy… this is Lomocia. He was abandoned here. Good guy..” The minotaur then places a hand on Lomocia’s shoulder. “I’m going to have to head out of here. I think I’ve had too much to drink.” With that the minotaur heads out, as best he can leaving Lomocia to stand in awkward silence. (OOC: Welcome Koby to Taur Isle. Excited to get you started. If you need anything let the DMs know or anyone on the game.)
Rolth Niheow (MarkBat) (16/16 HP | AC: 14; Touch: 11; Flat: 12; CMD: 17) | Glaive +3 1d10+4 x3 | Paws (2) +1 1d4+1 x2| Status: None Monday June 26th, 2017 9:47:45 PM
Rolth quietly agrees with Sable and the others who earlier suggested it that staying the night would be best at this point.
Upon the introduction of the elf, he bows and introduces himself. ''I am Rolth of the Eight Petaled Rose. It is a pleasure to meet you. What brings you to the Violet Keep?" He looks the elf up and down, it is so hard to tell with these fey creatures. The Minotaur said 'he" but maybe a she? The minotaur was a bit in his cups, after all...
Lomocia (Koby) (HP:6/6; AC: 12; Touch: 10; Flat: 10; CMD: 10) d20=19 ; d100=29 ; d8=3 ; Monday June 26th, 2017 9:59:28 PM
Lomocia (F) stands uncomfortably in the hall. Not used to large crowds, she feels more out of place than a fish in a tree. “Hello Eight Petaled Rose. I hope you don’t find this too unsettling, but I’ve been watching you all since you first started the Taurnament. I came here seeking fulfillment, yet was unnerved to learn that in order to compete you have a team of 8. Never much for friends, it seemed that I was out of luck. I sat in the bleachers at the opening ceremony watching the different groups. In all honesty, I don’t know why I chose to follow you. I suppose I had an inkling that you would be better companions than those pompous Purple Sash wearers, but maybe it was fate. Now I ask for a spot in your one petal short troop in return for my loyalty and devotion throughout the competition.” She stands back and bows her head slightly, waiting for a response from the group. (Ignore the dice rolls, I was messing around with them and then realized that you can’t get rid of them!)
Tsak Rezar (Damien) AC15 (T13/F12) 12/12 HP| Falchion +4 2D4+3|Status: None Tuesday June 27th, 2017 4:32:02 AM Hoi Lomocia, I'm Tsak. We are indeed in need of an eighth. Perhaps we should discuss your application over an ale or two? But don't overdo it, for we sail as soon as the tide allows.
Kiwina (Steve M) (16/16 HP | AC:14; Touch:11; Flat:12; CMD:15) | Status: None Tuesday June 27th, 2017 7:09:47 AM
Seeing a concensus for sleeping and thanking their host, Kiwina continues towards the Petals' rooms. "Lomocia, come on. Tell us about yourself. What do you bring to the team?"
Gothruk Gore (Logan) AC 12 (T11/F10) 12/12HP |Guisarme +3 2D6+4| Status: None Tuesday June 27th, 2017 8:51:45 AM Yes, tell us about yourself. We did have an eighth member but she decided to go walkabout. You seem friendly enough and I appreciate the respect you show. If you agree to not go the way she did then we'll be happy to have you. Gothruk says to Lomocia
I agree that we should get to know you over an ale, for we have reason to celebrate! We just passed the first of three trials. It was a shame you didn't see it. It was in a dungeon guarded by a plant woman who gave us riddles.The roses actually had legs and ran from us! Plants with legs! How weird it was to see.
Falco Ambersier (Ryan M) (7/7 HP | AC: 13; Touch: 13; Flat: 11; CMD: 12) | 7/7 Acid Dart | Lt Crossbow +3 1d6 x2 | Status: None Tuesday June 27th, 2017 9:55:33 AM Did that drunk Minotaur just call her a him? I need to be sure not to drink whatever he had!
Falco dodges around his bigger companions glad that he is fairly nimble amount the larger crowd.
"Pleasure to meet you Lomocia, a pleasure indeed. I'm Falco the resident mage and weaponsmith, how did you come to be abandoned here? Assuming that fellow meant you since you are clearly female and all."
Finnian (Zeke) (HP:11/11; AC: 16; Touch: 13; Flat: 13; CMD: 17) Tuesday June 27th, 2017 4:27:34 PM
Finnian eyes the newcommer skeptically. "Ive never known an elf I could trust before?" He thinks to himself. "Then again I hadn't met a minotaur I trusted before either but now look."
"Welcome, " Finnian says from the back of the group, half hidden by his larger companions. "I will come with you all for a drink, but I must admit I am quite tired and don't think that staying up too late is a wise idea, we need to be ready fkr whatever tomorrow brings."
Sable (Don) (15/15 HP | AC: 15/17; Touch: 11; Flat: 13/15; CMD: 18) | Status: Stern Tuesday June 27th, 2017 5:38:54 PM
Sable moves along with the party, ready to once again partake of the Duke's fine offerings. He wonders if there might not be a chance to find a fine Minotaur sized bow somewhere in the castle.
Rolth Niheow (MarkBat) (16/16 HP | AC: 14; Touch: 11; Flat: 12; CMD: 17) | Glaive +3 1d10+4 x3 | Paws (2) +1 1d4+1 x2| Status: None Tuesday June 27th, 2017 7:07:12 PM
Rolth is fine with having a beer before retiring for the night, with watches posted. He will quietly suggest that bragging about our success is better saved for later. Plenty of angry competitors running about!
(OOC I'm stuck on the airport trying to make it home from a work trip before we go on vacation tomorrow, so I'm posting early before getting on my late flight.)
Matthew S. Co-DM - Rose Quest Day 10 - 1:00 AM (Co-DM Cayzle) Tuesday June 27th, 2017 9:15:17 PM Rolth agrees with the others to stay the night. He bows to Lomocia and introduces himself. ''I am Rolth of the Eight Petaled Rose. It is a pleasure to meet you. What brings you to the Violet Keep?" Lomocia stands uncomfortably in the hall feeling out of place. She explains her situation to the group and asks to join them. Tsak Rezar introduces himself and offers to discuss over a drink. Kiwina sees that the others are content to sleep over heads to the room. "Lomocia, come on. Tell us about yourself. What do you bring to the team?" He asks. Sable adds that it may be unwise to travel at night, also, they could properly thank the Duke in the morning. He follows the others wondering about weapons. (OOC: A little Diplomacy or Perception goes a long way. Maybe a weaponsmith can make one ;) Falco introduces himself, wonders about the minotaur and why he would get someone's gender so wrong. “Clearly, the poor creature was not in his right mind at the time. He could've just looked it up and found she was a female but no… let’s just go by the name only...” snapped a small fey, walking by. She then disappeared into another hallway. Finnian is a bit sceptical of the new member but he has been wrong before. He volunteers to head out for a drink admits he is tired. Gothruk says, “Yes, tell us about yourself. We did have an eighth member but she decided to go walkabout. You seem friendly enough and I appreciate the respect you show. If you agree to not go the way she did then we'll be happy to have you.” Gothruk says to Lomocia. “I agree that we should get to know you over an ale, for we have reason to celebrate! We just passed the first of three trials. It was a shame you didn't see it. It was in a dungeon guarded by a plant woman who gave us riddles.The roses actually had legs and ran from us! Plants with legs! How weird it was to see.”
---- Drinks are everywhere, with a huge bar built along the back wall. Practice rooms for any weapons or many other pleasures. Tables are situated in rows in front of the bar. It is very late at night, and if you take less than eight hours of rest, it may take a toll ...
Sable (Don) (15/15 HP | AC: 15/17; Touch: 11; Flat: 13/15; CMD: 18) | Status: Stern d20+6=19 ; Wednesday June 28th, 2017 2:53:08 AM
Once back inside the castle proper, Sable heads for a weapons room to see if he can find a proper Minataur Compound Bow to practice with -- maybe participate in a little competition. (Perception - 19). If there is someone there to chat with, he will begin to ask about who makes the best bows in or near Castle Violet...
Tsak Rezar (Damien) AC15 (T13/F12) 12/12 HP| Falchion +4 2D4+3|Status: None Wednesday June 28th, 2017 6:20:42 AM
Tsak grabs a couple of mugs of something yeasty and heads for a table where the team can lounge comfortably. Ok Lomocia, Kiwina has a point, what do you bring to the team? Of course we'll also need proper identification and at least 3 written references from previous employers... He paints a stern look on his face and waits to see if the newcomer will rise to the bait...
Tsak will limit himself to one drink and offer to take first position on guard duty for the evening.
Kiwina (Steve M) (16/16 HP | AC:14; Touch:11; Flat:12; CMD:15) | Status: None Wednesday June 28th, 2017 7:09:53 AM
Kiwina abstains from drinking while she intoduces herself and the Petals discuss Lomocia. When it comes time for him to do so, he inttroduces himself as a sailor. It has been a long day.
[OOC: Rolth's post was early last night.]
Falco Ambersier (Ryan M) (7/7 HP | AC: 13; Touch: 13; Flat: 11; CMD: 12) | 7/7 Acid Dart | Lt Crossbow +3 1d6 x2 | Status: None d20+8=21 ; d20+8=9 ; Wednesday June 28th, 2017 8:33:30 AM
Falco will spend the bulk of the time making discrete inquires about the availability of magical means of travel, knowing that there would also need to be some way at the other end to travel to the next location. [Know Local: 13+8=21]
He also does his best to gain any information on the teams that have succeeded in the rose challenge. [Know Local: 1+8=9]
Falco does not drink but finds a spot near Tsak and Lomocia, getting the idea that Tsak is going to give her a bit of ribbing. He doesn't interject but works to repress a grin.
[ooc: When they retire for the evening Falco would like to scribe a Grease scroll]
Rolth Niheow (MarkBat) (16/16 HP | AC: 14; Touch: 11; Flat: 12; CMD: 17) | Glaive +3 1d10+4 x3 | Paws (2) +1 1d4+1 x2| Status: None d20+2=16 ; Wednesday June 28th, 2017 9:27:45 AM
Rolth will also limit himself to a single drink, and will mug behind Tsak's stern face to make sure that Lomocia is in the on the joke. He is inclined to let her join, and is sure that she will have ample time to prove herself. Rolth will take middle watch, unless someone requests otherwise. He suggests that in the morning, they seek out the sage, in order to find out more about the quest, these teleportation portals that others have mentioned, and any thing that will aid us. (Diplomacy = 16 plus any assists) to gather information from the sage, if that is possible)
Gothruk Gore (Logan) AC 12 (T11/F10) 12/12HP |Guisarme +3 2D6+4| Status: None Wednesday June 28th, 2017 1:09:08 PM
Gothruk will sit with the group and also take a tankard of whatever sounds good. While he would like to celebrate through the night properly he's sure the group will be up and causing trouble first thing the next day. And it wouldn't do to not be a part of that. He'll still have a couple of drinks though, all the better to send him off to sleep.
Finnian (Zeke) (HP:11/11; AC: 16; Touch: 13; Flat: 13; CMD: 17) d20+5=22 ; Wednesday June 28th, 2017 4:21:23 PM
Interested in what Sable is up too Finnian will follow him into the practice rooms. hearing him inquire about bows Finnian steps in. "I didn't know you were in the market for a new bow. I am just putting the finishing touches on a new one for myself. I love this first bow, but I know that I can always make it better. I am a bower by trade. What kind of bow did you have in mind? I bet it would have to be pretty big for someone of your strength," He compliments the minotaur but like any true archer also chides him. "But it doesn't matter how strong you are if you can't hit your target. What do you say? Closest to the..."Is bullseye offensive?"Center wins."
Finnian picks an arrow out of his bag and carefully takes aim at the target. The arrow flicks across the room and sticks just left of center. With a smile he turns to the minotaur.
[OOC: I have been wanting to talk with Sable about the bow for a while now but I never had a reason to be with him while he was asking about it so I took this as my chance. What are the rules on crafting non-magical weapons for other PC's?]
Rose Quest Day 10 at 11 AM (Co-DM Cayzle) One Rose Won! Wednesday June 28th, 2017 5:32:46 PM Tsak, Kiwina, and Rolth gently welcome Lomocia, albeit with a little teasing.
Tsak Rezar grabs a couple mugs of something yeasty and sits with the others. “Ok Lomocia, Kiwina has a point, what do you bring to the team? Of course we'll also need proper identification and at least three written references from previous employers …”, he asks.
Kiwina does not drink and introduces himself as a sailor.
Rolth has a beer and suggest that bragging is better for later. Rolth ponders Lomocia’s entry into the group and figures she will have time to prove herself. He suggests in the morning they seek out the sage to find out more about the quest, teleportation portals and anything that will aid them.
Falco tries to inquire about magical means of travel. He does recall that there is a group that teleported but they seemed to be the only group with that ability. There are many rooms within Castle Violet and it’s possible that the Duke may have some things hidden but you would have to do a lot of searching and there is the possibility that there is nothing. Falco only Highlight to display spoiler: {There doesn’t seem to be any successful teams nearby but that group that teleported from the dock at Chessford is a local group, you are sure of it. Someone may know of them.}
In general, you have heard that the Star Mage guild members may teleport from one Star Mage chapter house to another Star Mage chapter house for free. Any companions must pay usual spell costs per core rules. There are no chapterhouses in the Taur Isles. Also, the WLA is said to offer a matching service if you want to pay a cleric or wizard to cast a spell. The cost for a teleport would be at least 900 gold, more if there were a risk of mishap.
Falco also thinks about scribing a scroll, but there is no time to do that and get the rest you need to regain spells.
Gothruk sits with the group and drinks. He would like to celebrate and is ready to sleep until morning.
Sable heads for a weapons room to see if he can find a proper minotaur Compound Bow to practice with. In front of him is a long room, with targets on the far end. A minotaur stands to the right side, a scowl on his face. He stands a bit slouched. He see’s Sable and straightens up immediately. “What do you want?” He says gruffly. “It’s 1:00 in the morning.” On the left of you is a rack of bows. There are a couple long, traditional bows mixed in with a few composite bows and at the end a few crossbows. A long bench to stand and fire the bows in front of you. Beneath that is a selection of arrows and bolts. Many, one time use only, arrows and a number of traditional arrows. Sable asks about bowmakers, and the gruff guard says that the Master-at-Arms, the same fellow Gothruk trained with yesterday, would be the person to ask. In the morning.
Following Sable, Finnian tags along and joins in the conversation. He volunteers that he himself is a bow-maker!
[OOC: Making nonmagical bows is A-OK. Just have the player paying for it deduct the materials used (plus whatever you want to charge!) and make your rolls. Recall that my personal Craft table rule for this game is that no nonmagical object costing less than 1,000 gp takes more than a day to craft for PCs.]
----
After the drinks and conversation, the Eight-Petaled Rose hits the hay around 2 AM. Someone stays on guard. Morning comes and goes by the time you have gotten eight hours -- with another hour for morning prayers and spell prep. As the near-midday sun beats down into the high castle windows, someone else beats on the doors, calling out ... “Bring out your dead.” ... and then laughing. [b]“Just kidding. Good morning, heroes! The Duke has heard of your victory last night and has asked to meet with you!”
Lomocia (Koby) (HP:6/6; AC: 12; Touch: 10; Flat: 10; CMD: 10) Wednesday June 28th, 2017 6:18:05 PM
Lomocia walks over to the table where Tsak has settled down and retrieves a pint for herself.
"Well I'll be honest I'm not really sure how to work in a team. I've been on my own for a majority of my life." In a hushed tone she leans in towards Tsak and Falco. "I'm a witch. I have control of many magics and am apt in the creation of potions and other magical creations. I could help to heal the group and to make you stronger in battle." She tells briefly of her past, leaving out many of the heavy details. "As far as my references... if you must have them then I fear we are at a crossroads. For while I have lived, I have done so alone and there not exists a soul that would vouch for me kindly."
She takes a long drawn out glug from the pint and looks down towards the ground.
Rolth Niheow (MarkBat) (16/16 HP | AC: 14; Touch: 11; Flat: 12; CMD: 17) | Glaive +3 1d10+4 x3 | Paws (2) +1 1d4+1 x2| Status: None d20+7=24 ; Wednesday June 28th, 2017 8:33:54 PM
At the table over beers, Rolth exclaims in response to Lomocias story, "Honesty like that is worth five references in my book. And we could certainly use more healing and other magicks to round out our crew. And maybe we can help break that shell for you, if you like," he adds with a genuine smile.
During our downtime overnight, Rolth is happy to show the rose to those on the party who had expressed interest, turning his back to withdraw if from its place of safekeeping. When the inspection is done, he again turns his back to secret it away.
In the morning, Rolth welcomes the idea of meeting with the Duke, who has been so generous with us. He does take precautions, starting with a perception check to identify the voice calling from beyond the door, to make sure that it is not a jealous rival come to pluck our prize. (perception = 24 to detect signs of an ambush). The meeting with the Duke is another chance to find a speedier way to Centaur Isle.
Kiwina (Steve M) (16/16 HP | AC:14; Touch:11; Flat:12; CMD:15) | Status: None Wednesday June 28th, 2017 10:27:48 PM
Kiwina is happy to learn that Lomocia has some healing abilities, even though he hopes not to need them on this quest. "I have no references. Rolth and Sable knew me before the taurnament because we prefered Bridge Island. All of us teamed up for the contest."
When Kiwina learned that there were dryads living on the castle grounds -- or at least on -- the Duke went up in Kiwina's esteem. So of course he's glad to hear the invitation. Plus, perhaps they can learn how other adventuring groups have fared in the garden, or even a little about the care of magical roses.
Sable (Don) (15/15 HP | AC: 15/17; Touch: 11; Flat: 13/15; CMD: 18) | Status: Stern d20+2=11 ; Thursday June 29th, 2017 1:31:42 AM "Very impressive", Sable says. He strides over - selects an appropriate Composite Bow and normal arrow and fires. [b]"Looks like you win this time."
"If you think you can craft a bow for someone my size, I would love to have one made by someone as talented as yourself. Ideally, it would incorporate a Rose motif to celebrate the party and this occasion."
Tsak Rezar (Damien) AC15 (T13/F12) 12/12 HP| Falchion +4 2D4+3|Status: None Thursday June 29th, 2017 5:04:37 AM
Tsak will take advantage of Rolth's invitation to look at the rose, he then readies his gear so as to be off as soon as practicable once their audience with the Duke is finished.
Falco Ambersier (Ryan M) (7/7 HP | AC: 13; Touch: 13; Flat: 11; CMD: 12) | 7/7 Acid Dart | Lt Crossbow +3 1d6 x2 | Status: None d20+8=26 ; Thursday June 29th, 2017 7:17:33 AM
Quietly to Lomocia "Lomocia, when we are on the boat I would love to learn more about your arts. As a magic wielder myself I love to learn about other styles."
Falco will find some time to examine the rose more closely. Assuming it must be magical in nature he looks to see signs of sentience as the larger plants had. Thinking if they plant could communicate the rose may be able to as well. [Know Arcana: 18+8=26]
[ooc: I don't want to use to much player knowledge but I would think it is common knowledge that you can use a stem grow another rose with the right chemicals]
Once the inspection is complete he gets ready for an audience with the Duke. Once the group is gathered he will use prestidigitation to make sure everyone is clean and shiny.
Finnian (Zeke) (HP:11/11; AC: 16; Touch: 13; Flat: 13; CMD: 17) Thursday June 29th, 2017 8:45:29 AM "I do believe I could craft you a bow that would be worthy of your size and strength. It wiuld just require the gathering of materials and a bit of time." Finnian showes Sabke his own bow and gestures to the rose symbol. "I adorned my bow with our emblem, would something like this work for you?"
After his talk with Sable the night before Finnian is eager to get started on the new bow, forgetting that his newest bow is still unfinished in his back. He spends the first bit of the morning planning the bow and checking hjs tools. But before any progress can be made the group is invited to the gardens to meet the duke. "What a wonderful opportunity, getting to see the gardens," he thinks to himself.
Gothruk Gore (Logan) AC 12 (T11/F10) 12/12HP |Guisarme +3 2D6+4| Status: None Thursday June 29th, 2017 1:37:00 PM
While some party members are memorising spells or still waking up Gothruk will go to the training rooms and do some exercise for 20-30 minutes. Practising various feats of balance, flexibility and strength he'll try to work up a sweat. He'll try to get to the showers and return to the group before the crew set off to meet the duke. Well rested, energised and hungry hoping that the purple duke provides as good a breakfast as last night's feast.
Lomocia (Koby) (HP:6/6; AC: 12; Touch: 10; Flat: 10; CMD: 10) Thursday June 29th, 2017 6:08:54 PM
Lomocia rises with the rest of the party. She readies herself for the meeting with the Duke, not quite sure how a meeting with royalty should go. She remembers noticing the rose tattoos on some of party members the previous night and inquires with Tsak as to where she might be able to get one.
Sable (Don) (15/15 HP | AC: 15/17; Touch: 11; Flat: 13/15; CMD: 18) | Status: Stern Thursday June 29th, 2017 7:53:34 PM
Sable says, "Yes, that looks great - maybe draw on the rose we captured and use it as a model for the Rosebow".
Matthew S. Co-DM - Rose Quest Day 11 - 12:00 PM (Co-DM Cayzle) Thursday June 29th, 2017 8:24:17 PM Lomocia sits next to Tsak and answers some questions. She then rises with the rest of the group and asks about the Rose tattoo. Rolth exclaims, with a smile, "Honesty like that is worth five references in my book. And we could certainly use more healing and other magicks to round out our crew. And maybe we can help break that shell for you, if you like." Overnight, he showed the Rose to anyone, within the group, interested. He welcomes the idea of a meeting with the Duke. He checks out the voice calling from beyond the door and realizes the Duke had sent out some revelers to wake everyone up. No threats detected.
Kiwina is happy to learn of Lomocia’s learning ability and admits to no references. He is excited to meet with the Duke.
Sable is impressed and fires a composite bow and normal arrow. He concedes a loss and talks to Finnian about what he would like to see in a bow.
Finnian says, "I do believe I could craft you a bow that would be worthy of your size and strength. It wiuld just require the gathering of materials and a bit of time." Finnian shows Sable his own bow and gestures to the rose symbol. "I adorned my bow with our emblem, would something like this work for you?" In the morning he prepares to make his new project then gets ready to meet the Duke.
Sable says, "Yes, that looks great - maybe draw on the rose we captured and use it as a model for the Rosebow".
Gothruk does some training, takes a shower and returns rested and hungry.
----
It’s midday as you make your way to the Audience Hall. You hear the loud voice of The Purple Duke as he talks with his sages, courtiers, and Rose Questers who arrived last night after you did. As you approach the door to his audience hall, you hear his voice.
“My jesters are not supposed to be drunk,” he says in between laughs. “...but I may change that policy.” “It was a simple dance, and he trips and falls,” says a tall man, with serious demeanor. “Busted three of my tables.” The Duke laughs loudly. “Now we have to make some new tables.” “I hear the Eight-Petals made it through the task in record time. I have good feelings about that group. When they get here, we should all toast them,” the Duke says to the others having lunch. The crowd cheers. “Listen, my friends.. Listen,” the Duke continues. “We’ve had a few questers leave us rudely…” The crowd boos loudly. “No... no… that’s fine. They are free to go.” He reassures the crowd. “We are not keeping them from their quest, but... My friends… but, I have medicine… no.. that’s too easy.. I have a potion for the group that completes the task the fastest. I’ll award it at the feast tonight.” The crowd cheers. “Make that two potions…” one enthusiast calls out. The crowd roars. “Give us a chance to be fastest!” one quester calls out loudly. The minotaur from last night speaks up. “What is the potion, Mr. Duke?” “That’s a very good question,” the Duke says. “I will only say one thing.” He pauses to take a swallow from his glass. “You cannot see it.”
The Duke laughs as you reach the door. How do you make your entrance?
Lomocia (Koby) (HP:6/6; AC: 12; Touch: 10; Flat: 10; CMD: 10) Thursday June 29th, 2017 10:13:59 PM
(OOC: This will be my post for tomorrow as I won't be able to post until later in the evening.)
As the doors open Lomocia is stunned by the grandeur of the audience hall. Not used to much wealth, such a room is a new experience to her. She hangs back behind behind the others as she knows she does not have the report her new friends do with the Duke. She waits to take cue from the others, but makes mental note that she must introduce herself to the Duke before the feast tonight.
Rolth Niheow (MarkBat) (16/16 HP | AC: 14; Touch: 11; Flat: 12; CMD: 17) | Glaive +3 1d10+4 x3 | Paws (2) +1 1d4+1 x2| Status: None Friday June 30th, 2017 6:54:03 AM
Rolth bounds into the room, beaming and booming, "Of course he can't see it, my Lord, as we'll be off with it in a flash! Moreover, I suspect that none of the others will be able to claim both a new rose AND a new petal, all in one night. Allow me to introduce our Eighth, Lomocia, who I think you will find quite interesting, but shy as the roses of the garden."
After making the introduction, he will gather his meal next week out the sage to try to gather information (reusing the Diplomacy roll of 16 noted in a previous turn, plus any assists that others may wish to provide)
(OOC: Sorry gang, Rolth was feeling a little headrush with our victory. He can easily be talked into a different course of action if we don't want to stay for the potion. Bear in mind that we might learn more here that could guide our path)
Kiwina (Steve M) (16/16 HP | AC:14; Touch:11; Flat:12; CMD:15) | Status: None Friday June 30th, 2017 7:11:28 AM
Kiwina follows the more impetuous party members into the room, worried that Castle Violet itself is becoming one pleasant but unacceptable delay. Undoubtedly the courtirrs will want to see the rose, and that won't do either.
"Thank you, my lord, for hosting us -- and I have never been hosted so graciously before. Our quest demands that we not tarry, though. Unless there is a faster means of travel, we must be aboard a ship this afternoon. But may I be so bold as to ask whether victorious questers are welcome to return to your keep?"
Falco Ambersier (Ryan M) (7/7 HP | AC: 13; Touch: 13; Flat: 11; CMD: 12) | 7/7 Acid Dart | Lt Crossbow +3 1d6 x2 | Status: None Friday June 30th, 2017 7:14:28 AM
Hearing the conversation Falco gets excited. Before they enter he stops the group.
"If other questers a rude it is good we stayed. It sounds like we are in line for an extra potion, possible invisibility, if our time holds up. That with the potion allowing someone to move faster is a powerful combination!"
"Let's be sure the Duke knows how much we enjoyed his hospitality. While this is a race of sorts having nobles think well of us can only help."
As far as entering the room Falco will try and get to the front of the group simply so he isn't missed behind all the larger bodies.
Finnian (Zeke) (HP:11/11; AC: 16; Touch: 13; Flat: 13; CMD: 17) Friday June 30th, 2017 9:01:38 AM
Sable "That sounds like an excellent idea. Let us keep our eyes peeled for the perfect wood"
Finnian agrees with Falco's reasoning for staying but he also isn't looking forward to getting back on the boat. He is glad that Rolth took the lead and is happy to take a back seat to their spectacle. Unlike the halfling Finnian uses the large bodies of his companions to hide him. While the others enter the hall with excitement his knuckles grow white in his firm grip on his bow. Even though he doesn't expect trouble in the hall itself he can't help but wonder if announcing and flaunting their victory might have stirred other groups into thoughts of attacking them.
Tsak Rezar (Damien) AC15 (T13/F12) 12/12 HP| Falchion +4 2D4+3|Status: None Friday June 30th, 2017 9:01:43 AM
Tsak is of the opinion that the party need more information. He will happily visit the dock to find a ship and see what staying for the feast would actually cost them in time. It would be useful to have another sailor along for that conversation.
Lomocia (Koby) (HP:6/6; AC: 12; Touch: 10; Flat: 10; CMD: 10) Friday June 30th, 2017 11:31:46 AM
Lomocia makes her way over to the Duke for a quick introduction, but would rather accompany Task to the docks. She doesn't enjoy the loud, flashy, high energy room.
Gothruk Gore (Logan) AC 12 (T11/F10) 12/12HP |Guisarme +3 2D6+4| Status: None Friday June 30th, 2017 1:57:17 PM
Gothruk notices Finnian's frosty grip on his bow as they enter the room. Relax we are among friends. He says in his gravely voice while putting a massive hand on Fin's shoulder. They are showing us great hospitality and are very friendly.
Then he'll join along with the crowd laughing at Rolth's joke. When he's walking in he'll instinctively turn his head so his large scar and missing horn are harder to see.
Rose Quest Day 10 at Noon (Co-DM Cayzle) One Rose Won! Friday June 30th, 2017 6:19:07 PM Rolth bounds into the room. "Of course he can't see it, my Lord, as we'll be off with it in a flash! Moreover, I suspect that none of the others will be able to claim both a new rose AND a new petal, all in one night. Allow me to introduce our Eighth, Lomocia, who I think you will find quite interesting, but shy as the roses of the garden."
The Duke is taken aback a bit by the suddenness. A couple large minotaurs growl, but the Duke grins and settles them all down. “My son, such energy. I love it. I love this group,” he says, glowing. “They are going to go far, I tell you.” With that the audience applauds.
Kiwina follows the others with a bit of a worry hanging ... He politely tells the Duke that the group will be leaving before the evening’s feast, and the Duke frowns at that.
Falco clearly is not as set on a quick departure. He seems to think the party could gain valuable items and knowledge from the Duke. He does not (yet) contradict his friends who seem eager to depart. He does softly urge them all to be thankful ...
Finnian holds back, keeps his eyes and ears open, and wonders if the group should worry about the competition. He does not see any threats at the moment ... [DM Hint: Perception and Sense Motive are your friends here!]
Gothruk reassures Finnian and keeps a low profile (a thing that he can do here among his people, for sure). And the minotaur is right, surely here in the Duke’s court any actual hostility would be hidden deep.
Sable is even more low-key.
Lomocia is stunned by the grandeur but waits near the back till the others make introductions. The elf bloodwitch politely bows when introduced to the Duke, then joins Tsak.
Tsak Rezar too is polite but a bit brusque. He soon leaves the Violet Keep in order to visit the docks. Lomocia keeps the half-orc company. [See below for results. DM Hint: It is always helpful when players anticipate skill use and roll for knowledge, profession, and, say, diplomacy skill checks!]
======
The Duke applauds you all as you enter, and he is clearly looking forward to your tale. He invites you to tell what happened beyond the living fey-plant archway. And he asks to see the rose.
He is also clearly disappointed that you are considering an early afternoon departure. He mentions that he had hoped to present you with gifts this evening, and he knows you wanted to meet with his sage.
He sighs, and with the air of one revealing a secret, says “I was hoping to surprise you, but we are being greatly honored tonight. My friends, Prince Bakrigus II, sone of the high king of all minotaurs, is on his way here from Fort Stag, and he will arrive for the feast. I am sure that he would be glad to hear your tale.” The duke seems a bit disheartened. “Although perhaps one of these other questing groups will succeed before then.”
======
At the docks, Lomocia and Tsak do not find the Merry Mermaid. It has sailed away. Please make Sailor or Gather Info checks to discover the availability of other ships for the next tide.
Sable (Don) (15/15 HP | AC: 15/17; Touch: 11; Flat: 13/15; CMD: 18) | Status: Stern d20+4=20 ; Friday June 30th, 2017 6:29:35 PM
Sable is interested in not offending the Duke and Crown Prince, "Friends, let us stay for dinner tonight and show the Duke the rose we have procured.
To Finnian, "Maybe we can go speak with the Dryad to locate the right wood for the bow"
Sable also considers where he might locate the appropriate wood for the large bow, what would make for the best, sturdiest choice [Knowledge Nature = 20]
(OOC - I thought we had 24 hours from the last DM post to post...) (DM Matt - You post every day before midnight so it's like midnight to midnight. You can post before or after the DM. After the DM is preferred only because it's easier on the storyteller ;) (DM Cayzle - That said, yeah, generally it is nice for the DM to get 24 hours in between posts, but that's really essential only in combat. ;)
Rolth Niheow (MarkBat) (16/16 HP | AC: 14; Touch: 11; Flat: 12; CMD: 17) | Glaive +3 1d10+4 x3 | Paws (2) +1 1d4+1 x2| Status: None d20+2=16 ; d20+7=18 ; Friday June 30th, 2017 10:15:00 PM
Rolth agrees with Sable that offending the duke would be bad form after the hospitality that he has shown us. And we can spare one day to gain yet another potion, guaranteed. He is willing to tell the tale and show the Rose, assuming that there are no other competitors present, and there does not seem to be treachery afoot (Sense Motive = 16) He will take care not to reveal exactly how he is carrying it within his vest, however, and will scan for spies before bringing out the Rose or telling the tale. (Perception = 18). And he won't forget to ask the sage about the quest, faster means of transport, etc. per his earlier plan.
Kiwina (Steve M) (16/16 HP | AC:14; Touch:11; Flat:12; CMD:15) | Status: None Saturday July 1st, 2017 11:38:42 AM
Kiwina is not surprised that the Duke himself is unable to volunteer details of a faster way to travel, but is a bit disheartened that he did not point them to one of his staff for more information -- this could well mean he doesn't believe one is available. Also, Kiwina notes that if another team has succeeded, they haven't stuck around. But offending the crown also sounds bad. Once the audience with the Duke is over he privately tells these misgivings to the other Petals.
Further, the crown will be offended anyway if they don't show the rose, but Kiwina sees that as about the most foolish thing that they could do. After the Petals leave the Duke and his courtiers amid promises to return for dinner, Kiwina argues with the others that they should not show the real rose, and especially should not let anyone know which of them is carrying the rose or remotely where.
Kiwina waits for word of how the search for a ship went. While doing so, if he is unable to dissuade the others from showing the rose, he goes to the gardens outside of the castle to see if Cassia is maybe not on duty at the dungeon garden, and to ask her for advice.
Gothruk Gore (Logan) AC 12 (T11/F10) 12/12HP |Guisarme +3 2D6+4| Status: None d20-1=13 ; Saturday July 1st, 2017 1:32:15 PM
Gothruk will tell the story alongside Rolth, adding in a bit storytelling to make it more enjoyable for the crowd. He'll stick mainly to the truth with a slight bit of over exaggeration on the flowers cunning as well as Rolth's speed and dexterity in his ability to catch the flower. (Perform 1D20-1=13) He'll also be a bit vague on how the flowers were able to stay at a distance only describing it as 'plant magic'.
An Example: "Of course the first thing we did was try to trap them against a wall, but just when we thought they had nowhere left to go they used their plant magic to get on the other side of us again. Crafty flowers, not to be underestimated!"
Finnian (Zeke) (HP:11/11; AC: 16; Touch: 13; Flat: 13; CMD: 17) d20+6=21 ; d20=6 ; d20+4=12 ; Saturday July 1st, 2017 4:12:43 PM
Finnian listens to the retelling and is suprised that even that much detail was given but shrugs it off thinking that just because they got a rose here doesn't mean that others can't. [i]"it's not like there is only one. I should hope that others are able to succeed. Im more worried that someone may try to steal ours. [perception=21,sense motive 6]
" I would love to see the dryad if we have time" he says to sable. If there is tine before dinner Finnian will accompany sable to search for wood, and other materials that might make it easier to craft 2 composite bows. As well as gaining knowledge about the island's flora and fauna.
[Assist knowledge nature 12]
Tsak Rezar (Damien) AC15 (T13/F12) 12/12 HP| Falchion +4 2D4+3|Status: None d20+2=4 ; Sunday July 2nd, 2017 2:54:44 AM
[roll for sailor = 4] Tsak is a little disappointed to find that the Merry Mermaid has sailed. His efforts to find where she has gone or when she might return come to naught and he doesn't notice any other ships or captains that look likely replacements.
He reports his findings back to the group. Tsak is in favour of showing the flower to the Duke as he doesn't really think any other groups would be stupid enough try to steal it within the walls of the castle. He's also in favor of attending the feast and meeting the Prince along with the possibility of gaining the potion that has been offered.
[Sense Motive: 8 - If the Duke seems genuine in wanting them to stay]
Falco again argues for staying for dinner, hoping to build some consensus among regardless as to if he knows the Merry Mermaid has sailed or not.
Lomocia (Koby) (HP:6/6; AC: 12; Touch: 10; Flat: 10; CMD: 10) d20=3 ; Monday July 3rd, 2017 12:50:20 AM
Lomocia follows Tsak back to the castle, she debates for a moment staying to see about procuring a ship for the morning, but finally decides to accompany the half orc back to the castle. Upon arrival she throws her two cents into the pot, "I know I'm relatively new to this group, but I do feel that in this competition friends are more wisely made than enemies." She votes to stay for the feast. (Sense Motive: 3 - To see how the Duke truly feels about them staying or leaving.)
Matthew S. Co-DM - Rose Quest Day 11 - 12:30 PM (Co-DM Matt) Monday July 3rd, 2017 7:59:37 PM
“Where is that Eight-Petal group. They had the fastest time.” Some of the other questers grumbled, a hint of jealousy. One group stands up at once and leaves. The Duke notes them but returns to what he was doing, smiles and waits. “Ah, there you are,” he says when he notices them. “You are staying,” the Duke says with a hint of surprise. “This is excellent. Ok, we will present the gifts at the end of the day. What to do today…” “We have lunch at Noon, the Prince will be here around Four and dinner at Six.” Perception vs DC 10 Highlight to display spoiler: { There are several questing groups sitting at breakfast. There is a senior group, greying hair on all of them.} Perception vs DC 15 Highlight to display spoiler: { Another group which seems familiar. They are fully armored and have their war faces on but they seem amicable with a good Diplomacy roll ;) } (Ooc: Enjoy your holiday :)
Rolth Niheow (MarkBat) (16/16 HP | AC: 14; Touch: 11; Flat: 12; CMD: 17) | Glaive +3 1d10+4 x3 | Paws (2) +1 1d4+1 x2| Status: None d20+2=9 ; Monday July 3rd, 2017 10:19:19 PM
Rolth bows yet again to the Duke, continuing, "We are delighted to enjoy your famous hospitality for one more evening, sir. We are also looking forward to taking you up on your offer to talk with the sage after lunch, if you would be so kind as to make him available."
Turning to the grey beards, he bows again, politely introducing the Eight Petaled Rose and I nquiring into their affiliation.
For the familiar looking fellows in armor, are they Marblehorn's bunch? If so, he will give them a hearty hello and express his hope that the Dahlia was a suitable conveyance. (Diplomacy = 9 plus any assistance from others.)
Sable (Don) (15/15 HP | AC: 15/17; Touch: 11; Flat: 13/15; CMD: 18) | Status: Stern d20+8=24 ; d20+6=12 ; d20+4=17 ; Tuesday July 4th, 2017 12:40:01 AM
Sable scans the room (Perception 24), confirming Rolth's observation of the senior group and the separate heavily armored (but approachable) team. "Possibly both teams are worth engaging, for those with social skills -- but I would like to head downstairs once again.
Sable bows politely to both groups and after breakfast, heads back down to speak with the Dryad - taking care to let other groups take the challenge and not interrupt. Sable looks around for suitable materials for the bow that Finnian plans to make on his behalf (Perception - 12 ; Knowledge Nature - 17).
Tsak Rezar (Damien) AC15 (T13/F12) 12/12 HP| Falchion +4 2D4+3|Status: None d20+5=8 ; d20+5=24 ; d20=1 ; Tuesday July 4th, 2017 8:43:39 AM
[Perception #1=Fail, Perception #2=Pass, {OOC: sorry, that wasn't supposed to be two perception rolls was it? I keep getting that one wrong} Diplomacy=1 (oh dear)] Tsak wanders over to the heavily armored posse they last saw on the docks on Liontaur Island, Hey guys, why do Paladins prefer chain mail?...'cause it's holey armor! Get it!
Finnian follows Sable down to where they met the Dryad and and follows his lead in not interrupting when other groups pass but is still curios as to the woman's bond with the tree. "Hello again" he says with a bow. "I apologize for my boldness last night but I had had a bit to drink and it was late. It appears that we will not be leaving this morning after all and as promised I am back. We were able to pluck on of your lovely roses and I was wondering if you could tell me a bit about it and this hedge. It is all so fascinating to me I have seen many lovely flowers but non quite like those," And with a whisper when absolutely no one is down there with them he adds "And seemingly fond of music."
"I come here again for two reasons, one is to ask about wood. Specifically a wood that could be molded and crafted into a bow for my companion and I. I try to use wood that has fallen to the earth already, as I prefer not to chop down a living tree. And secondly I was wondering if you could impart to me some of you knowledge of the natural world. I have learned much of the trees and plants of the Wold, but I know that I have only begun to scratch the surface. I wish to learn all that I can of the plants, be them magical or otherwise". Finnian ends his exhortation and looks at the Dryad with intensity in his eyes. Then quickly realizes that he had done it again, gone off on some rant and not stopped to think about how he would be perceived. He quickly looks down embarrassed of his brashness.
[Diplomacy=Natural 20]
Kiwina (Steve M) (16/16 HP | AC:14; Touch:11; Flat:12; CMD:15) | Status: None Tuesday July 4th, 2017 12:29:23 PM
After introductions are made and the other Petals announce their intention of staying, Kiwina makes his exit politely and goes looking for Cassia. If Sable and Finnian are also looking for her, so much the better. Kiwina's question for her is simple. Kiwina is of the opinion that the roses showed themselves to be intelligent creatures quite, and believing that the party did not so much capture the rose as win its grudging acceptance by demonstrating necessary traits per the rules of the contest. Therefore, Kiwina wants Cassia's opinion of showing off the rose to others, and whether that would offend it.
(OOC: Perhaps a desciption of the rose now would help. When the party examined it in the room, was it more like a conventional rose or did it retain its mobility?)
Lomocia (Koby) (HP:6/6; AC: 12; Touch: 10; Flat: 10; CMD: 10) d20+2=7 ; d20+7=27 ; Tuesday July 4th, 2017 4:52:41 PM
Gaining a bit of courage, Lomocia makes her way around the room in search of a server that may direct her to the kitchen. She wishes to procure some of the herbs and incenses required for her to call a familiar in order to enchant her cauldron.
Perception: 7 Knowledge (of where the kitchen might be without a guide): 27
Gothruk Gore (Logan) AC 12 (T11/F10) 12/12HP |Guisarme +3 2D6+4| Status: None d20+5=25 ; Tuesday July 4th, 2017 6:28:34 PM
Gothruk sees the various groups stationed around the hall before tucking into a large breakfast.
He moves over to join Tsak but hears the terrible joke and thinks better of it.
If he sees Lomocia walk off on her own he'll attempt to join her, asking If he can help with anything. Magic was a rarity in Gothruk's childhood, and it would interest him to observe more. Seeing as she called herself a witch he assumed that staying around her should prove some insight into the world of magic.
Rose Quest Day 10 at 11 PM (Co-DM Cayzle) One Rose Won! Tuesday July 4th, 2017 10:46:21 PM
Those who go to visit the dryad find her sociable and friendly. She rightly views the discussion of wood to be a most interesting topic. She says that her hedge would not make good bow-wood, but she has a cousin who guards a whistral tree on Centaur Island, named Amaratha, who would be happy to gift you some lovely wood. "But have a gift for her when you go. She loves nectar and mead!"
She says that the roses you pick are not sentient and remain magically alive without water or sun. As for their mortal magical properties, those are not for her to say. But feel free to show them as you will.
Rolth is careful to seek out the sage. As far as teleportals go, the magic to make the best and longest lasting ones are based on Teucri magic, and there are only two sets commonly known in the Wold. One connects Plateau City to the Big Float, and the other connects the Big Float to Hook City in the deepest south. The sage says that the Star Mages are rumored to have smaller teleport circles in all their chapterhouses. Of course the nearest of those is on the mainland, in Farungia. For teleporting among the Taur Isles, your best bet is to find a mage who would be willing, or use scrolls.
The young witch who has newly joined the group indeed finds everything she needs to bind a spirit to her cauldron, either in the castle or at an alchemist in town. Many of the required herbs are rare and valuable, though, especially the mint that has been picked from its stem in the Realm of Shadows. That alchemist wants 100 gp for that.
===== ===== =====
The evening comes, and the feast is delayed from the Purple Duke's timetable. Indeed, it is much delayed, and the feast does not even start until long after night has fallen. But the crowd is huge and fills the hall when it begins.
Yes, the armored minotaurs are the group led by young Alex Marblehorn, who you met on Liontaur Island and who commissioned Captain Crusty and his Dahlia. They just arrived, with the sunset tide, and they listen to how the Eight Petal Rose won their magical flower. Alex himself comes up and congratulates you on your win.
In fact, the whole story about how you won the rose is widely applauded. It is just too bad the Crown Prince is not here to hear it. Indeed, a runner arrives well into the Feast with the news that the Crown Prince has been delayed, and will arrive tomorrow. The Duke sighs. Sensing the situation, Alex stands and declares that his group will try the test in the morning, and hopefully will have a story for the Crown Prince.
With dessert -- a marzipan rose soaked with shadows for each person at the feast -- the Duke rises to award the Eight Petal Rose a prize of two potions of invisibility.
Tsak Rezar (Damien) AC15 (T13/F12) 12/12 HP| Falchion +4 2D4+3|Status: None Wednesday July 5th, 2017 6:46:07 AM
Tsak has enjoyed the hospitality of the Duke but feels it is time for the group to leave. It would seem foolish to lose another day with Marblehorn so hot on their heels. I suggest we sleep till early morning, posting a guard, and then head down to the docks together to look for a ship.
Kiwina (Steve M) (16/16 HP | AC:14; Touch:11; Flat:12; CMD:15) | Status: None d20=15 ; d20+6=26 ; Wednesday July 5th, 2017 7:02:59 AM
Kiwina enjoys the festivities in moderation, but the next morning it is time to go. He supports whoever ythe party decides is best negotiator, and does his best to select the best vessel.
Rolls: diplomacy to help nnegotiations = 15, profession sailor to choose vessel = 26
Falco Ambersier (Ryan M) (7/7 HP | AC: 13; Touch: 13; Flat: 11; CMD: 12) | 7/7 Acid Dart | Lt Crossbow +3 1d6 x2 | Status: None d20+2=4 ; Wednesday July 5th, 2017 9:13:35 AM
At some point during the festivities Falco will thank the Duke for his hospitality and express his regrets for not being able to stay for the Prince's arrival.
"Agreed, let us sleep and rise early. The potions were probably worth the wait but another day just seems like too much time. When we win the prince may come to us."
[ooc; If he has the time Falco will scribe Reduce Person to a scroll]
Lomocia (Koby) (HP:6/6; AC: 12; Touch: 10; Flat: 10; CMD: 10) d20=9 ; d20=12 ; Wednesday July 5th, 2017 9:19:34 AM
Lomocia welcomes Gothruk with her on her little trip to the alchemist in town. She appreciates the company as well as burly protection that he seems to come with. She attempts to talk down the alchemist for a bit of a lower price, however if unsuccessful will trade the wooden token. She then makes her way back to the keep, enjoys the feast, and agreees that they should leave bright and early tomorrow morning.
(OOC - not sure what roll to make when negotiating. I made two rolls, the 9 is for appraisal, and the 12 is for diplomacy, if either are pertinent.)
Gothruk Gore (Logan) AC 12 (T11/F10) 12/12HP |Guisarme +3 2D6+4| Status: None Wednesday July 5th, 2017 11:36:40 AM
Gothruk agrees with Tsak, While the purple dukes halls have been glamorous and I'm sure we'll wish we were back here again as we swish though swamps or dessert where-ever the journey for the roses takes us. It is time to be off.
Not much of a sailor he'll listen to the others but not have much to add.
Sable (Don) (15/15 HP | AC: 15/17; Touch: 11; Flat: 13/15; CMD: 18) | Status: Stern d20+6=12 ; d20+6=14 ; Wednesday July 5th, 2017 2:21:10 PM
Sable nods in agreement with the rest of the party and prepares for travel with a wary eye, (Perception 12 or 14 Vs Monstrous Humanoids). If there is time, Sable secures a bottle of the best mead as a gift for Amaratha. (Knowledge Nature - 14) when checking on source descriptions for ingredients, like Honey)
Finnian (Zeke) (HP:11/11; AC: 16; Touch: 13; Flat: 13; CMD: 17) d20+4=12 ; d20+6=20 ; Wednesday July 5th, 2017 2:29:39 PM
Finnian thanks the dryad for all her help and ponders what kind of nector she is talking about and where to get it. [knowledge nature=12]
He agrees that first thing tomorrow they need to set sail and even though he knows nothing of sailing he accompanies the group to the docks in search of a ship to carry them to the next rose. He keeps his eyes peeled and bow ready while the move throughout the island.
[perception=20]
Rolth Niheow (MarkBat) (16/16 HP | AC: 14; Touch: 11; Flat: 12; CMD: 17) | Glaive +3 1d10+4 x3 | Paws (2) +1 1d4+1 x2| Status: None Wednesday July 5th, 2017 5:43:18 PM
Rolth thanks the Duke for his gracious gift, and expresses his regret that we can't stay to meet the Prince. He will offer to draft a polite letter to the Prince describing our victory, if the Duke will provide the needed materials. He inquires whether the Duke can suggest a fast ship, and perhaps even send us off. Rolth is keen to leave on the morning tide, after posting watches overnight. He will help search for a ship (profession sailor =
Rolth Niheow (MarkBat) (16/16 HP | AC: 14; Touch: 11; Flat: 12; CMD: 17) | Glaive +3 1d10+4 x3 | Paws (2) +1 1d4+1 x2| Status: None d20+5=13 ; d20+2=15 ; d20+7=18 ; Wednesday July 5th, 2017 5:44:54 PM
Profession Sailor = 13) with diplomacy to negotiate our passage. (Diplomacy = 15 plus assists) And perception to notice trouble overnight or on the way to our ship (Perception = 18)
Matthew S. Co-DM - Rose Quest Day 11 - 1:00 PM (Co-DM Matt) d20=6 ; Wednesday July 5th, 2017 8:25:24 PM Rolth added a couple questions for the Duke. The Duke thanks the group for their outstanding achievements. Advice on the ship gets a bit of a chuckle out of the duke. “Son, I haven’t been on a ship in a century but perhaps if you mention the Purple Duke the captain may give you a discount.” Lomocia and Gothruk run to the alchemist. The alchemist is in a sour mood, her negotiating skills are barely up to par today. Lomocia only Highlight to display spoiler: {(Bluff: 6) - Sense Motive DC 6 and she will offer to knock off 10gp. Fail and she is offering 100 gp. } Gothruk says, “While the purple dukes halls have been glamorous and I'm sure we'll wish we were back here again as we swish through swamps or desert wherever the journey for the roses takes us. It is time to be off.’ Kiwina sleeps overnight and in the morning begins to search for a ship. -- Sable agrees with the others and prepares for travel. He secures a bottle of the best mead, which is fully endorsed by the Duke. Tsak Rezar suggests they sleep overnight and leave in the morning. Falco thanks the Duke and agrees that another day would be too much time. -- (OOC: May need to visit Catacombs to purchase material) Finnian thanks the dryad and ponders about the nectar. He keeps his eyes peeled for a ship and ship captain available to take them on the next leg of the trip. ---
Day 11 of the Rose Quest dawns! Only 19 days remain to return to Liontaur Island in time! After a night's rest the Petals settle on finding a new ship near the docks below the Castle. There are three ships of varying shapes and states.
One, the Herald is barely holding up. Must be magic holding the hull together but it appears to have huge holes within it. The captain, an old centaur, crows about the Herald’s ability to tear through the sea over overwhelming objections from groups walking near by. Finnian only: Highlight to display spoiler: {You notice a group of liontaurs exiting the ship. They don’t seem worse for wear but they are a bit wet. }
A second ship, the Sharp Claw, is crewed by a liontaur captain, and it seems solid enough, and steady, but no speed demon. If you ask her about her rates, the captain is unfamiliar with the wooden tokens and will require 25 gold more, in addition to the token, if you are going to Centaur Island. If you manage to make a Sense Motive check vs DC20, then Highlight to display spoiler: {You sense that the captain knows all about the tokens but is feigning ignorance in order to extract a higher price.}
The Dahlia is in port, and if you greet him, Captain Crusty is friendly, but of course his ship is reserved for the Marblehorn group.
Kiwina (Steve M) (16/16 HP | AC:14; Touch:11; Flat:12; CMD:15) | Status: None Wednesday July 5th, 2017 10:10:32 PM
Kiwina takes advantage of the Dahlia's presence to talk with Captain Crusty, who steered them well on Liontaur Isle. What are his thoughts on the other ships in port? And how has it been working with the Marblehorn group? "It must be exciting to hear tales from such distinguished passengers."
Of course, Kiwina relies on his own observations of the other ships, too. And he tries to recall if he has heard anything about a centaur captain with such a distinctive ship as the Herald from other sailors.
Finnian (Zeke) (HP:11/11; AC: 16; Touch: 13; Flat: 13; CMD: 17) d20=6 ; d20=19 ; Wednesday July 5th, 2017 10:41:49 PM
[sense motive 6 Fail] Finnian notices a group of Liontaurs getting off of the boat full of holes. "I've no idea how they made it across the sea in that thing but it looks like they did, and if it's fast and seaworthy perhaps it's worth looking into" Finnian says to the group. Then looking at Rolth he adds "perhaps you can do the talking, being that you are a fellow Liontaur. I can come for moral support."
[diplomacy aid 19]
Sable (Don) (15/15 HP | AC: 15/17; Touch: 11; Flat: 13/15; CMD: 18) | Status: Stern d20+1=8 ; d20+4=13 ; Wednesday July 5th, 2017 11:58:23 PM
Sable looks over the ships and in particular the new Liontaur captain (Sense Motive - 8) and senses nothing out of the ordinary. Sable will check the sky to see what sort of day for sailing might lay ahead (Knowledge Nature - 13) -- which he will share with the others. Finally, he prepares for travel, awaiting the identification of the best vessel and outcome from the negotiation.
Rolth Niheow (MarkBat) (16/16 HP | AC: 14; Touch: 11; Flat: 12; CMD: 17) | Glaive +3 1d10+4 x3 | Paws (2) +1 1d4+1 x2| Status: None d20+2=3 ; Thursday July 6th, 2017 6:25:55 AM
Rolth also looks over the ships, (sense motive = 3) shrugs, and joins Kiwina in thanking Captain Crusty for the recommendation of the Merry Mermaid. Barring anything shockingly negative from Crusty re the holey ship, Rolth will then proceed to said vessel to negotiate passage to Centaur Isle. How long to get there, and will they accept a token for passage? (Diplomacy = 21 so far including assists from Kiwina, Lomocia, and Finnian)
Falco Ambersier (Ryan M) (7/7 HP | AC: 13; Touch: 13; Flat: 11; CMD: 12) | 7/7 Acid Dart | Lt Crossbow +3 1d6 x2 | Status: None d20=17 ; d20+8=14 ; Thursday July 6th, 2017 7:21:33 AM
[Sense Motive: 17 - so close]
Once passage is secured Falco will investigate what magic is holding the ship together though both studying what he can and asking questions. Clearly this is an interesting use of magic to him.
[Spellcraft: 14]
[ooc: Clearly I am thinking about scribe scrolls incorrectly, I will do some research.]
Lomocia (Koby) (HP:6/6; AC: 12; Touch: 10; Flat: 10; CMD: 10) d20=7 ; d20=3 ; Thursday July 6th, 2017 9:07:29 AM
(Sense Motive: 7 [ooc - so the price is now 90 correct?])
Lomocia, not coming from seabearing folk in the slightest, steps back and allows the others to do the talking and searching for their vessel. She trusts them to make a sound decisions and instead sits down on the dock and begins cleaning and caring for her cauldron. It feels good to again have such a close connection with the other realm and she is comforted by it's presence.
(Sense motive for captain: 3)
Gothruk Gore (Logan) AC 12 (T11/F10) 12/12HP |Guisarme +3 2D6+4| Status: None d20+4=9 ; d20+5=21 ; Thursday July 6th, 2017 12:26:06 PM
Gothruk doesn't pass the sense motive check (1D20+4=9=Failure)
Gothruk is easily distracted and realises that his ability to help the team is minimal so has a closer look at the falling apart ship trying to work out how it stays afloat. (Perception 21 in case that helps, he's not really trained in anything magical.)
Tsak Rezar (Damien) AC15 (T13/F12) 12/12 HP| Falchion +4 2D4+3|Status: None d20=13 ; Thursday July 6th, 2017 5:26:30 PM
[roll: sense motive = fail] Tsak agrees that the holey ship, being fast and seemingly capable, is the best option. He subtly acknowledges the fact to Rolth so as not to reveal their preference prior to negotiations with the captain. He then turns his mind back to the clues, searching for insights into the location of the next maze.
Matthew S. Co-DM - Rose Quest Day 11 - 1:30 PM (Co-DM Matt) Thursday July 6th, 2017 7:24:48 PM Kiwina and Rolth take advantage of the Dahlia’s presence and talks to Captain Crusty. The captain in cheerful and proud to be a part of the Marblehorns adventure. He trumpets their outstanding qualities at questing and you get a very good idea that he believes the Marblehorns are a shoe-in for winning the entire taurnament but he in no way is rude about it. Just excited. Rolth steps over to the Herald and approaches the liontaur captain. Finnian notices the Liontaurs getting off the Herald and wonders, "I've no idea how they made it across the sea in that thing but it looks like they did, and if it's fast and seaworthy perhaps it's worth looking into" Finnian says to the group. Then looking at Rolth he adds "perhaps you can do the talking, being that you are a fellow Liontaur. I can come for moral support." Sable looks over the ships and senses nothing out of the ordinary. He checks the sky and notices a storm slowly approaching from the South West. Falco investigates what magic is holding the ship together and finds it quite difficult. (OOC: Spellcraft or Detect Magic is DC 15 + Spell level)
The alchemist reluctantly sells the mint for 90 gp to Lomocia. She takes the token and gives you 10 gp in change. Tsak Rezar --
Gothruk takes a look at the falling apart ship. The ship is certainly full of holes. Men toll away within the bottom of the ship, just above sea level. They don’t seem to be concerned with drowning and walk easily from stern to bow carrying on with their jobs. The deck of the ship is, for the most part, intact. You can see a large hole in the center of the deck as you look up from the dock.
Tsak sees the Herald as the best option and searches for insights on the location of the next maze. --- The Captain of the Herald is a gruff liontaur named Cecil with salt in his long, unmanaged beard. He is young but his face is wrinkled and worn from years out on the water. “What’s going on boys,” he says as Kiwina and Rolth approach. “Perhaps you would like a ride on the Herald. She is quite the sight.” With that he laughs.
Rolth Niheow (MarkBat) (16/16 HP | AC: 14; Touch: 11; Flat: 12; CMD: 17) | Glaive +3 1d10+4 x3 | Paws (2) +1 1d4+1 x2| Status: None d20+2=4 ; d20+5=10 ; Thursday July 6th, 2017 8:40:40 PM
(OOC: Is the captain of the Herald a centaur or liontaur? I think this latest post conflicts with the 5 July one. It may not matter, but asking just in case it does.)
"I find her inspiring!" Rolth exclaims. "And no less so her Captain, who braves the seas in such an unconventional vessel." Rolth laughs good naturedly along with the Captain. "We seek speedy passage to Centaur Isle. How soon could you get us there? We have three sailors among us, as well as several more strong backs and quick minds. Not to mention a chance to make history together as we win the Taurnament of Roses! What say you?!" (Diplomacy =21 to negotiate an agreement and good price, Sense Motive =4 to determine whether we are getting a square deal, and Profession Sailor = 10 to weigh his sailing claims, remembering that sailing time should typically be 4-6 days depending on the type of ship)
Finnian (Zeke) (HP:11/11; AC: 16; Touch: 13; Flat: 13; CMD: 17) Thursday July 6th, 2017 11:03:08 PM
Finnian lessens the grip on his bow and follows Rolth to the new ship.
[on the road sorry for a short post.]
Tsak Rezar (Damien) AC15 (T13/F12) 12/12 HP| Falchion +4 2D4+3|Status: None d20+2=14 ; d20=7 ; Friday July 7th, 2017 5:56:06 AM
[Roll: Sailor = 14, also weighing the claims of the captain] Tsak listens and watches as Rolth discusses the voyage with the Captain. Not that he doesn't trust Rolth, but due to the 'unconventional' nature of the ship he guesses that another learned set of eyes won't go astray. He will also question the Captain regarding his knowledge of a library or school at a high elevation on Centaur Isle [Roll: Knowledge Local = 7]
Gothruk Gore (Logan) AC 12 (T11/F10) 12/12HP |Guisarme +3 2D6+4| Status: None Friday July 7th, 2017 7:41:14 AM
Gothruk laughs along with the captain's and Roth's bantering. He then backs Rolth up saying It would let a lot of people know your boat was not only a miracle but a fast one too. We've already collected the rose of the furthest challenge, you get us to our next destination quick enough and we'll be thanking you infront of hundreds of people when we get back to finish the taurnimate. That'd have to be good for business.
Falco Ambersier (Ryan M) (7/7 HP | AC: 13; Touch: 13; Flat: 11; CMD: 12) | 7/7 Acid Dart | Lt Crossbow +3 1d6 x2 | Status: None Friday July 7th, 2017 7:58:21 AM
Falco follows Rolth as he approaches the captain, his fascination with the ship only enhanced by his inability to figure out what magic is at work.
Lomocia (Koby) (HP:6/6; AC: 12; Touch: 10; Flat: 10; CMD: 10) d20+7=22 ; Friday July 7th, 2017 12:34:51 PM
Lomocia too having a magical background is intrigued by the state of the seemingly magically buoyant ship. She takes a few moments to check out what kind of magic may be at work here. (Spellcraft - 22)
Kiwina (Steve M) (16/16 HP | AC:14; Touch:11; Flat:12; CMD:15) | Status: None d20+7=20 ; d20+7=23 ; Friday July 7th, 2017 2:26:29 PM
Kiwina looks at the Herald carefully, looking for the condition of the goods and people on the ship, rather than the holes in the hull. (rolls: perception = 20, sailor = 23)
Sable (Don) (15/15 HP | AC: 15/17; Touch: 11; Flat: 13/15; CMD: 18) | Status: Stern d20+4=10 ; Friday July 7th, 2017 6:27:30 PM
Sable wonders if something more natural might explain the ship's condition, he looks over the hull (Knowledge Nature = 10). He then awaits the determination of those more nautical in the party and starts looking for a long pole -- he knows his place shipboard: Rescue Duty.
Rose Quest Day 11 at 2 pm (Co-DM Cayzle) One Rose Won! Friday July 7th, 2017 10:46:31 PM
[OOC: Sorry, that was an oversight. The Herald captain is Cecil, the centaur.]
Rolth finds the Herald inspiring, which thrills the captain. “You know, it takes a strong stomach to board the Herald. It’s not for everyone,” he says with a smile. “Wherever you’re going, I can get you there. The Herald is one of the fastest ships in this area.” “I can attest to that,” says one of the liontaur passengers kneeling upon the wooden dock and holding his head. “It comes with a price but the ship is fast.” The captain laughed, but it wasn’t cruel. It was a bit funny. “I can ship you anywhere for one of those taurny tokens. I can do Centaur Isle in four days, faster if the winds pick up and it looks like we are getting a storm so time is a bit short.” He yells at the crew to prepare for a quick exit due to a storm.
[OOC: Was there a decision made on a destination? We’re assuming Centaur Isle, but where?]
Lomocia tries to identify the properties of magic within the ship. “It’s enchanted,” Captain Cecil says with a smile as he watches the group try to figure it out. “The Herald has been enchanted since I stepped upon the thing as a child. It’s a strange enchantment because every so often a new piece of the ship will fall away but it keeps it’s shape. I was told, by the old captain, that it was first attacked by the Fey King, and then blessed by him after the Fark Fey Uprising, and that seems likely to me. The good lord Eberyon sens us help when we need it, so there’s that.”
The young witch maybe confirms that, as she senses divine magic at play with elemental forces.
Kiwina looks at the condition of the people on board. The one thing to pick up is the difference between the ship’s mates and the visitors. The shipmen come and go from the docks. Some stay on a ship for a while and others visit. The entire crew wear rain gear but there is a visible difference in the comfort level of the veteran shipmen that stay on. They seem to be unbothered by the huge gaps in the side of the ship. The visiting shipmen are a bit shaken, which is not unseen by the veterans. Many playfully taunt the others as they struggle to become accustomed.
Tsak Rezar listens and watches the discussion. He asks the captain about his knowledge of a library or school on Centaur Isle.
Falco follows Rolth. He cannot figure out the boat.
Finnian lessens the grip on his bow and follows Rolth to the ship.
Gothruk says, “It would let a lot of people know your boat was not only a miracle but a fast one too. We've already collected the rose of the furthest challenge, you get us to our next destination quick enough and we'll be thanking you in front of hundreds of people when we get back to finish the taurniment. That'd have to be good for business.”
The jolly centaur laughs, his beard moves with the old centaur like a plank on the ship. The facial hair has collected some antiques over the years.
Sable looks the ship over and cannot see how it could stay afloat were it not for the magic.
So, is this the ship you will take? And to where, exactly?
Rolth Niheow (MarkBat) (16/16 HP | AC: 14; Touch: 11; Flat: 12; CMD: 17) | Glaive +3 1d10+4 x3 | Paws (2) +1 1d4+1 x2| Status: None Saturday July 8th, 2017 8:31:40 AM
"What price beyond the wind at our backs and the ocean spray in our faces?", Rolth asks the ailing liontaur passenger. Assuming his answer is nothing worse than some seasickness (i.e. The crew is not a set of bloodsucking vampires), Rolth will then continue the negotiation, in a low voice pitched only to the captain. "We need to get to Scribners' University of Centaur Isle. Where is the best destination to get us there in the least mount of time, including both the sailing trip and any subsequent overland or other travel that might be required?" Assuming the answer is somewhere within a day or two of Scribners' University, Rolth will accept the deal, and turn to the party to see who will pay up with a token.
Kiwina (Steve M) (16/16 HP | AC:14; Touch:11; Flat:12; CMD:15) | Status: None Saturday July 8th, 2017 10:13:56 AM
"I thought we were headed for Scribner's University," Kiwina says to the other Petals before confirming that with the captain. He does not mention his personal opinion that the university is where the centaurs of the island are at their snootiest, but some distaste may creep into his voice.
Finnian (Zeke) (HP:11/11; AC: 16; Touch: 13; Flat: 13; CMD: 17) Saturday July 8th, 2017 2:08:23 PM
Finnian rummages through his things and produces his coin, "here, use mine," he says, handing the coin the Rolth.
"wow, I really do not want to get on this boat. But maybe it won't be so bad. A faster ship means less time at sea right?" Finnian thinks to himself as he observes the liontaurs that just got off the boat.
Tsak Rezar (Damien) AC15 (T13/F12) 12/12 HP| Falchion +4 2D4+3|Status: None Monday July 10th, 2017 4:19:28 AM
Tsak offers a nod in Rolth's direction to show he is happy with Rolth's handling of the negotiation and agrees to the choice of destination. He also notices the look on Finnian's face as he contemplates another sea journey. I'm happy to spend the next half hour pushing you around the dock and splashing water straight into your face if you think it will help you acclimate! Stay put, I'll be right back He rushes off yelling for someone to get him a bucket...
Gothruk Gore (Logan) AC 12 (T11/F10) 12/12HP |Guisarme +3 2D6+4| Status: None Monday July 10th, 2017 6:47:21 AM
Gothruk while not particularly looking forward to getting salt mattered in his fur is excited about going on a ship supposedly blessed by such a powerful being.
Lomocia (Koby) (HP:6/6; AC: 12; Touch: 10; Flat: 10; CMD: 10) Monday July 10th, 2017 9:13:16 AM
Lomocia is excited to officially be headed towards the University. She hopes that in the likely short amount of time they will have to spend at the institution that she may be able for steal away for a few hours to peruse the likely ancient works the libraries must posses. She also is fine with the sailing accomedations, and although far from seaworthy herself, she is ready to be off.
Falco Ambersier (Ryan M) (7/7 HP | AC: 13; Touch: 13; Flat: 11; CMD: 12) | 7/7 Acid Dart | Lt Crossbow +3 1d6 x2 | Status: None Monday July 10th, 2017 10:28:23 AM
Willing to put his life in the hands of the devine forces holding the ship together Falco is becoming anxious to be on the way. Once passage is secured he will address the captain.
"Captain I would like to thank you for passage on a ship that is clearly a wonder of the Wold. I think it is a good omen for both your crew and our group that you are participating in the quest for the rose. If I can be of any help please let me know."
The thought of the university is very appealing and, like Lomoia, he assumes the visit will be shorter then he would like.
Perhaps I can make a contact there that I can use in the future. Access to any store house of knowledge is most welcome.
Matthew S. Co-DM - Rose Quest Day 12 - 2:00 PM (Co-DM Matt) Monday July 10th, 2017 8:33:24 PM Rolth asks about the price of riding on the boat and one of the liontaur responds with what was expected. “It’s a mighty bit of seasickness. Amazing… if you can stand it.” “Scribners’ University huh… let’s see.” The captain consults another liontaur, with worn, thin apparel. The taur has tufts of hair clumped along his back and hadn’t taken a shower in a while. “Gentle creatures, this is my first mate, Wruwor. Wruwor says Scribner University is right off the beach on the east coast. It shouldn’t be a problem to get you close but you will have to hike up a hill through an assortment of trees. No worries, though. There is a path.
Kiwina Has some opinions about the centaurs in the university but keeps it to himself.
Finnian offers his coin despite reservations on jumping about the strange ship.
Tsak Rezar nods and agrees with Rolth. He ribs Finnian a bit then runs to find a bucket.
Gothruk is not thrilled about getting salt in his fur but excited about boarding the ship.
Lomocia is excited to be headed to the University. She hopes to steal away some time to study some of the work in the libraries.
Falco addressed the Captain, "Captain I would like to thank you for passage on a ship that is clearly a wonder of the Wold. I think it is a good omen for both your crew and our group that you are participating in the quest for the rose. If I can be of any help please let me know." The Captain smiles, saying only good omens belong on his ship.
Sable keeps it low key.
----
Perception vs DC 15 Highlight to display spoiler: { Up to this point the Captain seemed to be up to par and sane but with Falco’s mention of omens you notice the Captain seems to talk to himself, or is he praying. He seems to be a bit concerned. “Good omens… good omens.” }
Captain Cecil and his first mate welcome the Petals onto the Herald. They make extra precautions to ensure you step around the large holes in the ship desk. Actually, there is a team of shipmen that offer assistance with the tour of the ship.
“Let’s head out,” shouts the Captain. Seconds later a prayer to Eberyon erupts from the head of the ship. At the sides of the ship water begins to rumble as the ship starts to bob. Suddenly, large water elementals rise from below. Upon the ship everyone stops and watches. Huge hands reach upward and lace themselves within the holes of the ship. You now realize the ship had been sitting on the shallow harbor seafloor. The water elementals lift the ship up and begin to move it forward. The wind picks up from the storm approaching. It blows the water from the elementals over everyone on the ship.
(OOC: The ship is not the easiest to ride on. The holes and the awkward way it moves. Fort save vs DC 12 or else you are sickened for a day after the trip ends.)
Rolth Niheow (MarkBat) (16/16 HP | AC: 14; Touch: 11; Flat: 12; CMD: 17) | Glaive +3 1d10+4 x3 | Paws (2) +1 1d4+1 x2| Status: Sickened d20+7=19 ; d20+2=5 ; Monday July 10th, 2017 9:44:23 PM
(OOC: The spoiler seems to have been omitted in the post today, or was inadvertently revealed in the subsequent sentence. If the latter, Rolth made the perception check, so no harm done.)
Rolth climbs aboard excitedly and takes good look around as the tour is conducted. (Perception = 19 to notice the spoiler and other relevant details.) Despite his exuberance, however, even his experienced sailor's stomach is soon flumoxed by the unnatural means of conveyance (Fort save = 5 FAIL). He will nevertheless try to put a brave face on it, for the sake of his companions.
Kiwina (Steve M) (16/16 HP | AC:14; Touch:11; Flat:12; CMD:15) | Status: None d20+5=19 ; Monday July 10th, 2017 10:28:59 PM
(Fort save = 19) Kiwina finds the experience of rifing the ship to be much like taking a canoe through the surf, just much, much longer. Kiwina is prepared to help crew if asked, until the elementals appear, when he realizes there won't be any need.
Sable (Don) (15/15 HP | AC: 15/17; Touch: 11; Flat: 13/15; CMD: 18) | Status: Stern d20+6=12 ; d20+3=10 ; Tuesday July 11th, 2017 2:46:52 AM
Sable misses both perception and fort save, feeling ill he tries to find a section of the ship where he will be out of the way for the voyage,
Tsak Rezar (Damien) AC15 (T13/F12) 12/12 HP| Falchion +4 2D4+3|Status: None d20=18 ; d20+5=22 ; Tuesday July 11th, 2017 5:58:21 AM
[roll#1 fortitude = 18][roll#2 perception = 22] Tsak is happy to be back at sea and unconcerned with the nature of the ride. At least there's no cigar smoke right? Dang Dwarves! Aah, good times... He offers his bucket to any of the party that look greener than usual and tries to engage Wruwor to find out if he knows anything more about Scribnor University (perception roll) in particular who's in charge.
As the water elementals rise from the water Falco kind of loses his composure and jumps up and down clapping his hands for the briefest of moments. Realizing himself he stops and look around to see if anyone has noticed.
"Fascinating, just fascinating!"
He is so impressed that he misses pretty much anything else that is going on around him until his stomach starts to feel a little off.
Once he is settled he will attempt to join in the conversation Trask in his conversation with Wruwor. Asking small questions to get a sense of the place, are they welcoming to outsiders or if he knows how they feel about sharing their knowledge. [Know Local: 11]
Lomocia is fascinated by the elementals as they break from the surface of the water and begin to propel the ship forward. She wonders if someone on board is controlling them, or if this a blessing from some patron she is unaware of. She seems unaffected by the sickness some of her companions have fallen to, and she looks around the deck for anyone who may be in control of the elementals.
(Perception: 11)
Finnian (Zeke) (HP:11/11; AC: 16; Touch: 13; Flat: 13; CMD: 17) d20=7 ; d20+6=12 ; Tuesday July 11th, 2017 3:06:19 PM
Finnian smiles at Tsak's ribbing but does seem nervous none the less.
[Failed:Perception and Fort, though thematically I'd say that's about right for Finnian]
Low and behold it doesn't take long being on the ship before he does begin to fall ill. "This is far worse than the last ship we were on, but... gulp... if it gets us there faster than I guess this is worth it," Finnian yells over the roar of the water and has to hold back the sickness.
"At least during the last ride I was able to get some work done on my bow" He thinks to himself as he leans against the side of the ship.
Gothruk Gore (Logan) AC 12 (T11/F10) 12/12HP |Guisarme +3 2D6+4| Status: None d20=18 ; d20+3=18 ; Tuesday July 11th, 2017 6:17:02 PM
Gothruk passes both rolls He's fascinated by the amorphous reforming steeds that pull the boat along. While studying them he unconsciously gets info their rythm and is less affected by the seasickness. He wonders should they meet one that is hostile would he be able to harm it with fist or blade?
After snapping out of his daydreaming he'll help the other crew members who a feeling a bit sick either by getting buckets or helping them move to a more comfortable part of the ship.
Rose Quest Day 14 at Noon (Co-DM Cayzle) One Rose Won! Tuesday July 11th, 2017 8:25:15 PM
Rolth, Sable, Falco, and Finnian are seasick!
Gothruk is kind and helps tend to his fellows who are suffering. [OOC: Gothruk, you have no ranks in heal but you can make an untrained heal skill check, if you like.]
Without effective medical care, those who are seasick will suffer the ill effects. All four of them suffer a a -2 penalty on all attack rolls, weapon damage rolls, saving throws, skill checks, and ability checks, for the rest of the day after landing.
Finnian regrets that his stomach prevents him from crafting.
Falco despite his queasiness finds a way to try to talk with the crew. He gets a feeling that they are both amused and sympathetic to his plight. Wruwor is a bit weird, but friendly enough. He is especially eager to tell tales of the Fey King. Are you willing to sit through hours of vaguely religious myths? Is anyone? The rest of the crew seem to have heard it all before.
Kiwina is content to observe the magic at work here.
Tsak Rezar learns that Scribner is the only university in the Taur Isles, and is a major point of pride for the centaurs. Officially, any taur may now attend, though less than a quarter of the students are minotaurs these days. The university is set in a grove of the largest Whistral Trees on the coast. There is a Dean who is the head, and a council of Professors.
Lomocia watches the elementals and gets the feeling that the captain is the one directing them. At other times, when the captain is off the deck, it is Wruwor who directs them, often appealing to them to do Eberyon’s work.
The vessel docks at a small village at the base of tall cliffs. You can see the giant trees atop the bluff as you sail in. You arrive at midday on Day 14 of your quest. The village at the shore serves a fishing community and docks for those coming to the library.
The climb up the bluffs is very steep, and you pass several stone guard towers as you walk up the switchbacks. You would hate to have to assault this place, and indeed, it was considered one of the most impregnable centaur strongholds during the wars. Then you come to the university.
Scribner U is a grove of Whistal Trees -- big ones even for the species. Greenmages have worked the living trees so that a ramp of living wood is built into each tree. In this way you can walk up the ramp to a point very high up. The Greenmages have worked rooms into the living trees without harming them. These chambers serve as offices, small classrooms, and so on. But for big lectures and events with many taurs, you see grounds around the grove feature small to huge amphitheaters, shaped by druids from the ground and covered in short grasses. There are also a few constructed buildings that nestle among the trees on the ground.
Do you press on with the quest, even though half of you are still quite sick? Or do you seek restful accommodation and an early start tomorrow? And this place is huge! Where exactly do you think you are going?
Kiwina (Steve M) (16/16 HP | AC:14; Touch:11; Flat:12; CMD:15) | Status: None d20+7=22 ; d20+7=11 ; Tuesday July 11th, 2017 10:03:02 PM
Seeing the plight of his seasick comrades, Kiwina tries to help them (roll: heal = 22). He also willingly listens to the tales told by Wruwor, although perhaps not for hours on end.
Once the ship has docked, Kiwina waits to see how the others are doing and to talk strategy. He does not want to enter the arena with sick comrades. But he does try to identify the tallest of the trees (roll perception = 11). And also a place they might stay if the decide to rest.
Rolth Niheow (MarkBat) (16/16 HP | AC: 14; Touch: 11; Flat: 12; CMD: 17) | Glaive +3 1d10+4 x3 | Paws (2) +1 1d4+1 x2| Status: Sickened d20+5=25 ; Tuesday July 11th, 2017 10:05:51 PM
Rolth is happy to be on dry land once again! He thanks Kiwina for the healing care, and tries to help look for a place to rest and the tallest of the whistal trees (Perception = 25, which includes the sickened penalty)
CDM Jerry Tuesday July 11th, 2017 10:18:56 PM
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Sable (Don) (15/15 HP | AC: 15/17; Touch: 11; Flat: 13/15; CMD: 18) | Status: Stern d20+6=12 ; d20+3=10 ; Wednesday July 12th, 2017 1:57:00 AM
Sable misses both perception and fort save, feeling ill he tries to find a section of the ship where he will be out of the way for the voyage,
Sable (Don) (15/15 HP | AC: 15/17; Touch: 11; Flat: 13/15; CMD: 18) | Status: Stern d20+1=11 ; d20+4=7 ; Wednesday July 12th, 2017 2:08:13 AM
Sable gazes in wonder at the whistal trees (Knowledge Nature = 11). He asks Kiwana and maybe Rolth to help him locate the dryad Amaratha and makes sure his bottle of mead is ready for her. Finally, he scans the city of trees to try and identify where a dryad might live (Perception = 7), but has not luck.
Falco Ambersier (Ryan M) (7/7 HP | AC: 13; Touch: 13; Flat: 11; CMD: 12) | 7/7 Acid Dart | Lt Crossbow +3 1d6 x2 | Status: None Wednesday July 12th, 2017 7:16:40 AM
Over the course of the trip Falco is happy to listen to Wruwor for as many hours at it takes to get the story. The curse of an active mind is felt particularly strongly when closed in on a boat no matter how amazing and fantastic the boat is. To be fair he also hopes the captain will stick around and wait to give them their next trip. At the end of the journey he will address the captain and if possible Wruwor together.
"Captain you and this ship are true marvels. I doubt we will be here long and have further to journey. I feel your ship with its... amazing propulsion would give us an advantage in making history."
On the walk up Falco will apologize to the group for slowing them down both from walking slower and feeling ill.
"My friends I know I have slowed you on this walk but I still suggest we spend a night and tackle this problem fresh. As with the last stop we may get valuable information."
Tsak Rezar (Damien) AC15 (T13/F12) 12/12 HP| Falchion +4 2D4+3|Status: None d20=10 ; d20=2 ; Wednesday July 12th, 2017 7:43:14 AM
[roll#1=10 Knowledge, local; to find a place for the group to rest,roll#2 Knowledge, local; to find info related to the location of the rose garden/maze/tallest tree] Tsak thanks the Captain. He agrees with Falco that with several of the party sick the best move is to find somewhere comfortable where they can rest, after which those that are feeling fine can make some inquiries (starting with anyone he just passes in the street, regarding the tallest of the trees, a library, a maze or a rose garden. If the whole group are back on their feet tomorrow they can attempt to capture their second rose.
Finnian (Zeke) (HP:11/11; AC: 16; Touch: 13; Flat: 13; CMD: 17) d20+2=12 ; d20+4=9 ; Wednesday July 12th, 2017 12:52:04 PM
Finnian gets off the ship with wobbly knees and a churning stomach. Still he can't help but being fascinated by the spectacle of the place. The towering trees and the way that the greenmages have molded them leaves Finnian in wonder.
[Know Nature 12] knowledge of the trees.
The first chance he gets Finnian wants to seek out a greenmage or a druid. To discuss nature and to find nectar for the dryad.
[perception=9]
He quickly realizes that he is in no condition to venture off on his own and so sticks with the group.
Lomocia (Koby) (HP:6/6; AC: 12; Touch: 10; Flat: 10; CMD: 10) 4d20+7=36 ; d20+7=18 ; d20+7=15 ; d20+7=26 ; d20+7=23 ; Wednesday July 12th, 2017 12:55:44 PM
(OOC: Not sure where the law falls on how many consecutive heal checks I can make, but I'll make all four right now and if that's more than I'm allotted, just accept however many are allowed in the order I make the checks. Also ignore the first roll "36" I'm on mobile so the dice are tricky sometimes.)
Lomocia feels fine as she ascends the cliffs with her group. When she reaches the top, she gathers the group around her and attempts to cure as many as she can from the sickness.
(Heal Checks: 18 for Rolth, 15 for Sable, 26 for Falco, and 23 for Finnian)
Gothruk Gore (Logan) AC 12 (T11/F10) 12/12HP |Guisarme +3 2D6+4| Status: None d20=13 ; d20+3=20 ; d20-3=0 ; Wednesday July 12th, 2017 6:40:47 PM
Gothruk waits to see how many of his crew recover from their illness helping out where he can. (Heal 1D20 =13) if we can get most of them up to snuff then he'll suggest having a look around. Else he'll be happy to find a place to bunk up.
(Ooc are these staircases built into the trees suitable for large creatures?)
He'll try and find somebody nearby and question them on the general layout of the place, especially 'the tallest points, where they could rest, where more information could be found'. (Diplomacy 1D20-3=0)
(Ooc ignore the second roll I added three instead of subtracting it.)
Sable (Don) (15/15 HP | AC: 15/17; Touch: 11; Flat: 13/15; CMD: 18) | Status: Stern d20+2=15 ; Wednesday July 12th, 2017 6:48:06 PM
Sable will also assist, locating useful herbs to calm the churning stomachs (Knowledge Nature - 15 to assist the heal checks). He will listen to the tales shipboard to distract him from his discomfort.
Matthew S. Co-DM - Rose Quest Day 14 - 3:00 PM (Co-DM Matt) Wednesday July 12th, 2017 8:48:59 PM
On the Herald
Kiwina listens as Wruwor spins his tales. He is a very good story teller. And very inspirational, actually.
[OOC: Wruwor is a Cradled of Eberyon, using his Spread the Word ability. Thus, Kiwina gains a +2 divine bonus to his next saving throw.]
Falco and Sable also listen to Wruwor’s tales. [OOC: they also gain a +2 divine bonus to their next saving throw.]
On the docks below Scribner University
Once the boat reaches the dock, the water elementals set the ship upon the shallows and melt away, leaving the water to wash over the boat. This soaks anyone still on the boat. "Captain, you and this ship are true marvels,” says Falco. “I doubt we will be here long and have further to journey. I feel your ship with its ... amazing propulsion would give us an advantage in making history."
Captain Cecil thanks Falco for the compliment and is friendly, but declines to stay due to the need to head outside of Taur Isles for a bit. “Will be back in a couple days,” he says. “I will stop here first but I can’t guarantee anything,” he adds.
The captain says his goodbye and the Herald rises from the dock and sails off. Standing there, some of you are sick to your stomach and may need some rest.
In the fishing village at the base of the bluffs
Finnian is feeling awful but is fascinated by the spectacle of the place. He wants to venture out and ask questions but his belly says otherwise.
Kiwina barely makes out one of the tallest trees above him, but it’s really hard to tell if there are any taller behind it from his position. As far as a place to stay, there are a couple homes lined up just outside of the docks who have signs out for beds to let.
Kiwina sees the plight of the seasick and rolls to heal them. Lomocia spends a lot of time tending to her friends who are sick. Gothruk waits to see how his crew recovers from illnesses and tries to help.
Their combined efforts take a couple hours, and do work to an extent. The penalties for being sick are reduced from -2 to -1. Those affected will be entirely recovered with a good night’s rest.
Rolth is happy to be on dry land again. He thanks Kiwina for the healing and looks for a place to rest. The trees look a little clearer to Rolth and he sees a group of Whistal Trees over there at the top of the bluff far above the docks.
Sable struggles at sea, but once landed he looks up at the Whistal trees, wooden giants of the Wold. They stretch upward for thousands of feet, you guess, so high they seem to touch the clouds. The widest trunks must be over two hundred feet wide.
Sable asks Kiwana or Rolth to help locate the dryad Amaratha.
If anyone can make a Gather Info (Diplomacy) or Know (Local) check vs DC13, then Highlight to display spoiler: {You learn that Amaratha’s grove is a day’s travel inland.}
If anyone can make a Know (Geography) or Know (Local) check vs DC5, or is a centaur who has lived on Centaur Island, then Highlight to display spoiler: {You recall that for non-centaurs to travel inland on Centaur Island, you need permission from the local Chief Stallion.}
Falco adds a suggestion that they stay somewhere for the night.
Tsak Rezar searches for a place to stay and sees the same homes as Kiwina.
Perception vs DC10 Highlight to display spoiler: { The homes in front of the dock look friendly. You notice that a new group of blond-haired taur stand and speak to a Dwarf and his wife. There is a pair of centaur, liontaur and minotaur.}
The dirt road up the bluffs to the University beckons. The road up the cliffs is more than acceptable for a large creature. It is actually wide enough for a pair of taurs to walk easily side by side. Recall that this is Centaur Island -- everything is made on a tauric scale.
Far above, molded into the sides of the sacred trees without harming them, the ramps grown into the sides of the vast Whistal trees (as you saw from the ship as you approached) are more than wide enough for a centaur to walk safely.
It is about three o’clock in the afternoon. Half of you are feeling better, but still queasy. You have not yet ascended the path up the bluffs to the University proper. Do you spend the night here to rest, or do you ascend now?
Rolth Niheow (MarkBat) (16/16 HP | AC: 14; Touch: 11; Flat: 12; CMD: 17) | Glaive +3 1d10+4 x3 | Paws (2) +1 1d4+1 x2| Status: Sickened -1 d20+1=15 ; d20=4 ; d20+6=26 ; Wednesday July 12th, 2017 9:22:03 PM
Rolth thanks Lomocia for the extra healing, he is feeling almost himself now! Swallowing a little to quell the remaining queasiness, he tries to help gather info from the locals that can help them find Amarantha, and relays what he learns, to wit, Amarantha's grove is a day's travel inland. (Diplomacy = 15, including the lessened sickened penalty = success!)
He also wracks his brain for what he can remember about the local area from his previous sailings, but can't seem to recall anything helpful. (Knowledge Geography =4, fail!) Shaking his head to clear it, he instead takes a better look around, noting the presence of a new group of blonde=haired taur talking to a dwarf and his wife over near those friendly-looking houses. (Perception = 26, success!) He relays this to the Petals, and suggests that perhaps we could talk to them and seek a place to stay while gathering still more information that might help our quest. Then we can attempt the cliffs in the morning.
Tsak Rezar (Damien) AC15 (T13/F12) 12/12 HP| Falchion +4 2D4+3|Status: None d20=8 ; d20=11 ; d20+5=15 ; d20=14 ; d20=1 ; Wednesday July 12th, 2017 10:01:59 PM
[R1 Diplomacy (spoiler)=8 Fail, R2 Know Local = 11 Pass, R3 Perception = 15 Pass, R4 Know local (locate Chief) = 14, R5 Diplomacy (gain permission)=1! Really!] Tsak recalls that travelling inland on this isle requires special permission for non-centaurs. As he is currently feeling hale and hearty he plans on climbing to the top of the cliffs to try and locate the Chief Stallion to get permission for the party to travel. If he can climb up and have time to do some investigation before nightfall he will do so, then return back down the path to the group for the night. Ever the diplomat Tsak has another fantastic ice-breaking joke in mind that is sure to endear him to the Chief...
Kiwina (Steve M) (16/16 HP | AC:14; Touch:11; Flat:12; CMD:15) | Status: None Wednesday July 12th, 2017 10:59:55 PM
Kiwina volunteers to go with Tsak, since having a centaur along can't hurt with this request. But he suggests that they learn where the group will be staying before they leave.
Sable (Don) (15/15 HP | AC: 15/17; Touch: 11; Flat: 13/15; CMD: 18) | Status: Stern d20=15 ; d20+5=14 ; Thursday July 13th, 2017 2:42:12 AM
Sable agrees with the assessment that we would need to get permission from the Head Stallion to proceed and offers to accompany the others to gain it (Knowledge Local = 15). He also notices (Perception 14) the group of Taur and Dwarf, "Interesting that there are two of each Taur in that party over there, it might be worth speaking with the diverse group.".
He also agrees that securing a place to stay here might be advisable before searching for the Centaur leader.
"Task, I recall you are correct so it would be much better to get permission that is for sure. It is possible the contest for the rose comes with some blanket permission but best not to risk it."
Falco agrees with Sable that speaking with the other group may well be a good idea. Thought not a diplomat he will head the way if no one else does and offer a greeting.
Finnian (Zeke) (HP:11/11; AC: 16; Touch: 13; Flat: 13; CMD: 17) d20+5=7 ; d20=3 ; Thursday July 13th, 2017 10:24:53 AM
Even though Lomocia did much to alleviate his sickness Finnian is still left reeling. He has been to this island before but can't seem to remember anything of it's customs. He tries to look around but notices little out of the ordinary. [Perception 7] An attempt to gather information for the group leaves him stammering non discript words to some passersby. [Diplomacy 2, I forgot the -1 on that already fantastic roll].
He then turns to the Liontaur and says "Rolth, I wonder if there is a WLA chapter house somewhere on the island, I would love to stop in if there os o e and we get a chance. I'm sure that they would love to hear of our rose quest thus far."
He also agrees with Falco "If that is the custom than I agree that we should check in first before entering the city."
"I seem to recall something like that but in this state I can't be certain."
[OOC Finnian is not from centaur Island but did spend some significant time there on his journey to the rose ceremony]
Lomocia (Koby) (HP:6/6; AC: 12; Touch: 10; Flat: 10; CMD: 10) d20=20 ; d20=1 ; Thursday July 13th, 2017 10:26:40 AM
Lomocia, a little worn out after spending so much time trying to heal her friends, opts to lean against the trunk of one of the trees and waits for the verdict from Tsak and Kiwina. Not a master of diplomacy by any means. She feels that she wouldn't have much to add, and instead sits back to just observe.
(Know local: natural 20 Perception: natural 1 - what are the odds!)
Falco Ambersier (Ryan M) (7/7 HP | AC: 13; Touch: 13; Flat: 11; CMD: 12) | 7/7 Acid Dart | Lt Crossbow +3 1d6 x2 | Status: None Thursday July 13th, 2017 1:40:42 PM
[ooc: I forgot the -2 for being sick on those rolls. Sorry GM's]
Gothruk Gore (Logan) AC 12 (T11/F10) 12/12HP |Guisarme +3 2D6+4| Status: None d20+5=13 ; d20-3=13 ; Thursday July 13th, 2017 7:03:29 PM
Gothruk notices the other group (Perception 1D20+5=13) Gothruk heads off alongside Tsak and Kiwina. An extra body may be of some help, and he wants to explore these unbelievable trees as soon as possible. He'll attempt to assist in their Diplomacy rolls. (Diplomacy 1D20-3=13)
Matthew S. Co-DM - Rose Quest Day 14 - Early Evening (Co-DM Matt) Thursday July 13th, 2017 8:14:47 PM Rolth thanks Lomocia for the healing and feels better. He tries to find some information on Amarantha from the locals. A halfling and a centaur walk by chatting about an incident in Fort Damastes just the other day. “I tell you what,” says the halfling. “A liontaur can take out a minotaur anyday. Did you see what that one did?” “I don’t agree,” the centaur replies, but stops when he realizes that Rolth is asking a question. “Oh my gosh,” he says. “I’m so sorry. Umm… Amarantha?” “Do you know an Amarantha? You say she is a dryad?” “There was a dryad involved in that fight in Fort Damastes. I think they were fighting over her.” “Really,” replies the centaur. “That’s not right.” “I know, right. Why would they be fighting over a dryad?” “Maybe…” The two creatures walked off, completely oblivious that they were a bit rude.
Lomocia just watches.
Gothruk, Sable, and Falco notice the mixed-race group and walk over to say hi. Turns out this is a group of questers as well, hunting the rose. That’s their boat over there. They are friendly and open. “Have you found any roses yet?” a cute female liontaur asks. “Do you think there is a garden here? Any idea where? Up at the university, of course, but then where? Did you solve any of the other riddles?” The dwarf takes out a well-folded parchment, one of the ones they handed out at the opening ceremony. “We think there’s one on each Taur Isle.”
Meanwhile, Gothruk, Tsak Rezar, Sable, and Kiwina want to climb the path. But Kiwina wants to know where the party is staying before anyone ascends the bluffs. Sable agrees, but no one has yet done anything to secure lodgings.
Falco thinks the party is making a slight mistake. Visitors are welcome to go where they want on the coast, for example, anywhere in the University. It is to travel INLAND, well away from the sea, that requires permission. You would need that kind of permission to seek out the dryad, but not to wander the town above you.
Finnian wonders if there is a WLA chapterhouse here. If there is, it would likely be above, in the town proper.
[DM Cayzle OOC: I just need you guys to get set somewhere for resting for the sick, and then the healthy can go up to town, look around, and come back for the night. Is that your plan? Feel free to grab the plot and shake sometimes.]
Rolth Niheow (MarkBat) (16/16 HP | AC: 14; Touch: 11; Flat: 12; CMD: 17) | Glaive +3 1d10+4 x3 | Paws (2) +1 1d4+1 x2| Status: Sickened -1 d20+1=19 ; Thursday July 13th, 2017 9:10:36 PM
Rolth huffs, "Holey ship, that was a rough ride, I need some rest!" With a shake, he combs out his salty fur to look a little more respectable, and then walks up to the nearest friendly looking house offering rooms to let, and strike a deal. (Diplomacy = 19) Once the dickering is done, he'll call over his other sick friends to get some rest, and bids the annoyingly healthy Petals a nice afternoon of exploring in the town above.
As they rest, Rolth will chat up the hosts or other guests to see whether they have any additional information regarding the recent incident in Fort Damastes or Amarantha.
Kiwina (Steve M) (16/16 HP | AC:14; Touch:11; Flat:12; CMD:15) | Status: None Thursday July 13th, 2017 9:51:04 PM
"If people here talk as much as I know centaurs do," Kiwina tells the others, "then rumors of the garden should be spreading from the successes of any groups that came here first. Even if we do not intend to go inland, we should look for the Chief Stallion as he is likely to have heard the rumors." Kiwina fully intends to ask about Amarantha, too, although he isn't sure the party shouldn't wait until after the contest to find her. He watches Rolth's negotiations with interest.
Sable (Don) (15/15 HP | AC: 15/17; Touch: 11; Flat: 13/15; CMD: 18) | Status: Stern d20+5=18 ; d20+3=6 ; Friday July 14th, 2017 2:03:45 AM
Sable is still feeling a little ill, so will join Rolth for a rest. He wonders to the rest of the party members, "Could there be a dryad involved for each of the Rose Gardens on each island? And, it might be useful to check in with our different organizations to see if they might be able to help --
He will also examine any items he finds in the homes that might be made from one of the trees, trying to gage the quality of the wood. (Perception - 18; Knowledge Nature - 6).
Tsak Rezar (Damien) AC15 (T13/F12) 12/12 HP| Falchion +4 2D4+3|Status: None Friday July 14th, 2017 4:35:44 AM
Tsak will engage the Dwarf and his wife in conversation to see if there is anywhere close by that the group could stay for the night.
Excuse me, i expect you've been over-run with contestants in the Taurnament. I'm afraid we're more of the same. Could you please help us, we need to know where our party can stay for the night and, unfortunately, after a rough sea voyage I don't think all of us are up to the climb up to the University
Falco Ambersier (Ryan M) (7/7 HP | AC: 13; Touch: 13; Flat: 11; CMD: 12) | 7/7 Acid Dart | Lt Crossbow +3 1d6 x2 | Status: None Friday July 14th, 2017 8:42:08 AM
Falco explains his thoughts on persission to the party and will not push the issue at this point.
"Guys I really think I need a rest after that trip. I am not as hardy as some of you physical types. I can push thought if I must but I will be less useful."
Hear sable Falco responds "It would make sense for a dryad to be involved. We are hunting magical self sustaining roses so your average horticulturist isn't going to be keeping them growing."
Finally worn out Falco will plop down in the shade and wait to see if Tsak finds them a place to recuperate.
Gothruk Gore (Logan) AC 12 (T11/F10) 12/12HP |Guisarme +3 2D6+4| Status: None Friday July 14th, 2017 10:16:34 AM
Once the others have found a place to rest Gothruk will take a mental note and continue along the path to find the Chief Stallion. We'll need to get his permission in order to progress, hopefully we'll be able to do that by the end of the day so we can start the hike early tomorrow when the remaining members are feeling better. As before he'll use the same roll to support Tsak and Kiwina when talking to the stallion. (Diplomacy 13)
Finnian (Zeke) (HP:11/11; AC: 16; Touch: 13; Flat: 13; CMD: 17) Status: Sickened d20-1=4 ; Friday July 14th, 2017 10:35:32 AM
Finnian, being one of the wilting petals, finds a place to rest and recuperate. He listens to the others as they make their plans. When they find a place to stay he will attempt to negotiate a price, if need be. [Diplomacy 4] However the sickness has been taking it's toll and he clams up and forgets how to interact with people.
Lomocia (Koby) (HP:6/6; AC: 12; Touch: 10; Flat: 10; CMD: 10) d20+2=7 ; d20=20 ; Friday July 14th, 2017 12:02:13 PM
Lomocia has no desire to chat with the locals. Outcast is not a trait defined by geography. Instead she begins to scan the nearby flora and fauna for anything that could be helpful in crafting potions.
(Perception: 7, knowledge nature: 20)
(OOC: in regards to possible ingredients, I'm not looking for anything too fancy, just base ingredients or other simple stuff. Also, is there a list of potions and how to make them or do I have to learn recipes?)
Matthew S. Co-DM - Rose Quest Day 14 - Evening (Co-DM Matt) Friday July 14th, 2017 6:59:35 PM
b]Rolth[/b] huffs, “Holey ship, that was a rough ride, I need some rest!” (OOC: Love this btw :) He combs out his salty fur and walks up to the nearest house and easily strikes a deal with the homeowner. Sable and Finnian stand by and try to help. “That will be 20 shillings,” the centaur replied with a smile then corrected himself. “Of course, that’s not real money outside of the Shilling house.” He laughed as young colts run around the house behind him. “We aren’t needed much for one night. How’s five gold pieces each?”
If you make a Know Local check vs DC10: Highlight to display spoiler: {That seems high, but maybe there is a lot of demand with all the questers ...} [OOC: Anyone can try a knowledge check of DC10 or less.]
Sable joins Rolth and asks, "Could there be a dryad involved for each of the Rose Gardens on each island? And, it might be useful to check in with our different organizations to see if they might be able to help.” He looks to gage the quality of the wood and finds that it is all from the large Whistal trees. “I see you looking at the wood around here,” Mr. Shilling says, “it’s of the utmost quality but restricted in every way. I wouldn’t be surprised if you were fined for staring at it too long. The Chief keeps every tree under lock and key.”
Tsak Rezar engages the Dwarf and his wife and asks about staying. “Excuse me, I expect you've been over-run with contestants in the Taurnament. I'm afraid we're more of the same. Could you please help us, we need to know where our party can stay for the night and, unfortunately, after a rough sea voyage I don't think all of us are up to the climb up to the University.” “Of course” says the couple. “Yu can have our bed. What is the standard rate? Um… 15 gold pieces,” says the Dwarf in a gruff tone. “That's way too much,” One of the Blond haired centaur says. “Complaining already,” snapped the Dwarf. “You already agreed to the room.” “...but we do not have 15 gold each.” “Maybe, we could share?” The Blond centaur asks the Pedals standing near by.
Falco thinks they need some rest and adds that a dryad may be involved in the other gardens.
Lomocia looks for herbs and anything useful. This is an inhabited village, so the most interesting things are the herbs being grown in small gardens and windowboxes ... that belong to residents! Maybe further inland?
Walking Up To The University
Kiwina is expecting rumors to be everywhere but there isn’t much going on within the fishing village. Most, if you see anyone seems to be working or standing outside their homes waiting for adventurers. Kiwina suggests they look for the Chief Stallion.
Gothruk takes a mental note and continues along the path to Chief Stallion. He hopes they can be ready to go early the next morning.
Those who take the path to the University proper have a long, steep walk, but it is not a real challenge. At the top, there is a guard station with two centaurs. One is looking out to sea with a spyglass. One is there to greet visitors. He gives Gothruk an especially careful eye and asks what you want. Informed that you are questers, and that the rest of your group is below, the guard softens a bit. He asks to see a wooden token if you have any left. He says you may enter the walk the grounds of the University freely, but if you want to go beyond the grounds, you have to ask for permission. The Chief Stallion will be available at noon tomorrow at the administration paddock.
Looking around, you see the tall trees, with ramps and chambers grown into the sides. You see gathering places, amphitheaters, and low wide buildings in the shade of the Whistal Trees. It looks like about 20 have been cultivated for use by the university. The greatest and tallest, at the center of the grounds, has been left untouched. There is something at the base of that one. All around you are many centaurs and a scattering of other races. You do not stand out.
Sable (Don) (15/15 HP | AC: 15/17; Touch: 11; Flat: 13/15; CMD: 18) | Status: Stern d20=2 ; d20+7=13 ; Friday July 14th, 2017 8:36:46 PM
Sable fails his Knowledge Local, so he is not sure what is going on and looks to the others for guidance. He says about the wood, "It is some of the strongest and most striking that I have ever seen, you are fortunate to live in such a wonderful place."
Sable will look for a place to rest, not really eager to share a room with the new team. He will also take a hard look at the other party, particularly the Wemics as he is still on the lookout for his prey (Perception 13 vs. Monstrous Humanoids).
Rolth Niheow (MarkBat) (16/16 HP | AC: 14; Touch: 11; Flat: 12; CMD: 17) | Glaive +3 1d10+4 x3 | Paws (2) +1 1d4+1 x2| Status: Sickened -1 d20=19 ; Friday July 14th, 2017 10:14:17 PM
Rolth smiles in anticipation of a good dickering. After all, this is how the city taurs hunt! He thinks the price is high, despite the increased demand from the Taurnament. After all, there are many other folks still offering their places too. (Knowledge local = 10 on a roll of 19 to gauge the price) "It does look like a nice place, but I see many others open for guests as well...we would gladly pay 3gp each, if you include dinner and breakfast." He will be willing to negotiate up to 4gp each, if necessary, which seems reasonable given the demand and our fatigue.
He is not willing to share with the other party, politely declining and explaining that our large party will need the space and we must rest comfortably before the challenges of the next day.
Gothruk Gore (Logan) AC 12 (T11/F10) 12/12HP |Guisarme +3 2D6+4| Status: None d20+5=19 ; d20-3=15 ; Saturday July 15th, 2017 10:42:42 AM
Gothruk will check out the base of the tallest trees, it was mentioned that there was something there. (Perception 1D20+5=19 incase that's needed.
After that he'll introduce himself to the guard and try to get on better terms. So does the Chief Stallion give permission to every adventuring party individually? That must be a headache to sort out who's going where and why. You mentioned that he'll be at the administration paddock at noon but perhaps it would be better if we arrived earlier or with gifts? We are causing him trouble after all. And don't worry about my sharp stick here He says referring to his Guisarme I've barely used it for anything but a walking stick for a long time.
Hopefully he can put the guard at ease. Diplomacy 1D20-3=15
Finnian (Zeke) (HP:11/11; AC: 16; Touch: 13; Flat: 13; CMD: 17) Status: Sickened d20=7 ; Saturday July 15th, 2017 6:11:01 PM
[Knowledge Local=6, I forgot the -1 again but it doesn't really matter] Normally Finnian would be glad to sleep out under the stars, even prefer it, but in his current state a bed was what he desperately needed. he reached for his coins and was ready to pay full price when Rolth chimed in. thinking that he may be able to save himself a few coins he withdrew his hand and waited for a response.
Once negotiations are finished Finnian will gladly pay the agreed upon price and hurry to a place where he can get some sleep. preference goes to a bed, even a shared one but a corner will do resting his head on his pack. "Finally a place to rest that isn't being moved by a giant water creature"
[ooc]What time of day are we going to sleep and do we need 8 hours to be unsickened (that's not a word) or the full night?[/ooc]
Kiwina (Steve M) (16/16 HP | AC:14; Touch:11; Flat:12; CMD:15) | Status: None Saturday July 15th, 2017 7:27:21 PM
It's good to get a nice walk in after a few days shipboard. When told the Chief Stallion will be available tomorrow, Kiwina makes sure to ask where the administration paddock is, and to walk there if possible. He then suggests to the others that they go see what is at the base of the tallest tree, and report back to their sickened comrades with the news they've gathered.
Tsak Rezar (Damien) AC15 (T13/F12) 12/12 HP| Falchion +4 2D4+3|Status: None d20=9 ; Sunday July 16th, 2017 7:03:18 AM
[Knowledge check=9 Fail] Tsak confirms with the Dwarf that his offer is 15 gold in total for the party to stay in his lodgings. Not sure if this is a good deal or not in these parts he then goes to check with Rolth and decides to leave the final negotiation with him (he seems to be actually enjoying it). Once a place has been chosen he'll join Kiwina and Gothruk in a walk up the cliff to see what's at the top and try to locate the paddock where the Chief Stallion will be on the morrow.
Falco Ambersier (Ryan M) (7/7 HP | AC: 13; Touch: 13; Flat: 11; CMD: 12) | 7/7 Acid Dart | Lt Crossbow +3 1d6 x2 | Status: None Monday July 17th, 2017 6:57:44 AM
Seeing Rolth preaparing to negotiate for a bed Falco is gald someone is dealing with it.
Five gold is too much but at this point I would probably pay it anyway. Still we need to conserve what we have during this contest.
Falco finds a shaded spot and waits for the resolution to the negotiations.
Lomocia (Koby) (HP:6/6; AC: 12; Touch: 10; Flat: 10; CMD: 10) Monday July 17th, 2017 9:19:29 AM
After searching around the little area at the bottom of the steps to no avail Lomocia begins the climb upwards after where she saw her friends leave.
Matthew S. Co-DM - Rose Quest Day 14 - Just before Dusk (Co-DM Matt) Monday July 17th, 2017 7:06:06 PM At Scribner Village
Sable makes a comment about the wood. Mr. Schilling smiles. “This is a wonderful place, the wood though is highly restricted by the Chief Stallion. To be honest, I’m not to thrilled about it. He could be a little less oppressive about the whole thing. His wife, interrupts him from within the house. “Oh, deer. You didn’t come here to listen to be belly ache. How about I knock that stay down to 3 gold piece per night?”
Rolth is in the mood for some dickering. Luckily, Mr. Schilling just lowered it to 3 gold, just before you said something. There are other houses but they are off the beaten path and a bit of a trek. These few houses are right on the beach.
Finnian is happy to pay any price needed to rest. (OOC: A full night will rest you up.)
Falco is happy Rolth is negotiating. The negotiations moved from the Dwarves home to the Schillings. The Schillings have lowered the offer to 3gp per person.
Lomocia joins the others above.
Atop the Bluffs, near the Administrative Paddock
Gothruk Checks out the tallest tree.
He adds, “So does the Chief Stallion give permission to every adventuring party individually? That must be a headache to sort out who's going where and why. You mentioned that he'll be at the administration paddock at noon but perhaps it would be better if we arrived earlier or with gifts? We are causing him trouble after all. And don't worry about my sharp stick here He says referring to his Guisarme I've barely used it for anything but a walking stick for a long time.”
“The Chief runs a pretty tight ship here, but to answer your question, Nobody needs permission to stay at the University and the village below. Just visitors who go outside the area need permission. There are many rules. I’m sorry but no one speaks to the Chief. The Chief will only be available at noon tomorrow. Your guisarme is no threat”. He says matter of factly.
Kiwina enjoys the walk. The administration paddock is locked up with a few centaur walking within it. It’s a fenced in area within the center of some large low sod-roofed buildings. It looks like the roofs are used for herb gardens.
Tsak Rezar confirms with the Dwarf but he repeats that it’s 15 per person but he is willing to split it if they share. He then joins the others up at the administrative paddock.
Everyone but Rolth and Sable explore the outside of the administration paddock and the large trees. Each tree seems to be a center of a branch of learning. Judging by the signs (in Tauric and Common), you can see a Tree of Natural Philosophy, a Tree of History, a Tree of Literature and Arts, a Tree of Esoteric Lore, and others. There are two very tall trees in the center: a Universatree and a Library Tree. However, the very tallest tree has not been touched by the greenmages’ arts. It stands astoundingly tall in its natural glory. The building at its base, unlike all the other low-lying buildings, is made of elegant marble. It has the look of a temple. Imagine something like this, but 400 feet in diameter, with a 250-foot diameter tree growing from a center courtyard up into the sky.
Sable (Don) (15/15 HP | AC: 15/17; Touch: 11; Flat: 13/15; CMD: 18) | Status: Stern d20+1=7 ; Monday July 17th, 2017 7:20:43 PM
Sable is happy to rest and regain his strength. If he can, he frankly asks his hosts about dryads and the Whistal wood (Diplomacy 7). He then awaits the return of his friends.
Rolth Niheow (MarkBat) (16/16 HP | AC: 14; Touch: 11; Flat: 12; CMD: 17) | Glaive +3 1d10+4 x3 | Paws (2) +1 1d4+1 x2| Status: Sickened -1 Monday July 17th, 2017 8:51:31 PM
Rolth happily seals the deal with the Schillings, and starts to settle in, choosing a place where he can keep an eye on the door and any comings and goings outside. If the Schillings are in a chatty mood, he will see what else they have heard about Taurnament participants and successes or failures hereabouts. Later in the evening, he will update his personal tattoos to reflect our recent journeys. If Lomocia returns at a reasonable hour, he will also offer her the simple compass rose tattoo of the Eight Petaled Rose.
Kiwina (Steve M) (16/16 HP | AC:14; Touch:11; Flat:12; CMD:15) | Status: None Monday July 17th, 2017 11:02:38 PM
Not wanting to explore much with half the party waiting, Kiwina suggests a quick walk around the temple to see what there is to see, and asks any passersby if they know what the building is. If they do not answer, he will ask the guards on the way back to their rooms. He does not intend on entering the building without the full group.
Tsak Rezar (Damien) AC15 (T13/F12) 12/12 HP| Falchion +4 2D4+3|Status: None Tuesday July 18th, 2017 8:27:47 AM
Tsak is happy to tag along with Kiwina. At least now he knows where the Chief Stallion will be the next day so that the petals can present themselves and hopefully move forward with the next stage of their quest.
Falco Ambersier (Ryan M) (7/7 HP | AC: 13; Touch: 13; Flat: 11; CMD: 12) | 7/7 Acid Dart | Lt Crossbow +3 1d6 x2 | Status: None d20+8=13 ; Tuesday July 18th, 2017 8:37:08 AM
Happy to only have to shell out 3gp for his lodgings Falco will at least try and gather some info on other teams. Particularly of interest would be how many have come by and if anyone knows where they went while here.
[Know Local: 13 - rolled a blasted 5]
Lomocia (Koby) (HP:6/6; AC: 12; Touch: 10; Flat: 10; CMD: 10) Tuesday July 18th, 2017 12:30:48 PM
Lomocia joins Rolth and debates where to receive the tattoo. She eventually on her back, to the left of the left shoulder blade.
Finnian (Zeke) (HP:11/11; AC: 16; Touch: 13; Flat: 13; CMD: 17) Status: Sickened Tuesday July 18th, 2017 4:52:02 PM
Finnian pays his share and instantly finds a place to curl up and fall asleep, He hopes tgat a nights rest on solid ground will do him some good.
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