Crossing the Dread (DM Cayzle) Thursday April 23rd, 2020 11:38:49 PM
Lanliss says his farewells. The boy is a bit scared but more excited! [OOC: Position in group? Just walking, or travelling some other way?]
Barratore takes point, being careful to not leave the others behind.
Velarin settles into third position, prepared, he thinks, for the dreaded lands.
Edson scouts ahead and keeps alert.
By the way, you may be interested to see this map. It holds no secrets for your characters. If you want more details on a particular place, roll a Knowledge Local or Geography check and ask!
The Keepers quickly settle into their march, progressing across land scarred by invaders and winding through the detritus left behind by the vanquished foes. The walls of Effacia dwindle from view and the sounds of workers’ hammers and supervisors’ shouts fade as they progress across the plain.
The northern part of the Dreadlands are barren, rough, and broken, but there is bramble and brush, grasses and stunted trees here and there. It is alive, after a fashion. But a few miles more on, and even the thorns and bracken end, and the land is simply dead. It is a hard slog to walk through, though this is no surprise to you since you recently came this way in your travel to the haunted mines of Tishan. All terrain here is difficult -- that’s an understatement.
If you push hard, you can cross the Dreadlands without requiring a camp, though you will have to walk on into the night to reach Jarlwolf and the Cinnamon Valley. Call it a 12 hour walk. Per the rules, “A character can walk for more than 8 hours in a day by making a forced march. For each hour of marching beyond 8 hours, a Constitution check (DC 10, +2 per extra hour) is required. If the check fails, the character takes 1d6 points of nonlethal damage. A character who takes any nonlethal damage from a forced march becomes fatigued. Eliminating the nonlethal damage also eliminates the fatigue. It's possible for a character to march into unconsciousness by pushing himself too hard.” For seasoned veterans such as yourselves, a forced march of just four hours whould not pose any problems, honestly.
A slight breeze stirs over the crags and canyons, rustling the ashes and whipping around weathered rock formations, gently, whispering softly. The land seems devoid of its expected threats and cries silently for heartsease and tranquility. Perhaps the battle for Effacia thinned the dangerous population of the region.
As the sun approaches the horizon, and the shadows start to lengthen, you have a choice: Press on home or camp? If camp, watches, please.
Velarin Xilontheel(Chris J), AC 17(FF 14), hp 157/157, extended mage armor(24 hrs) Friday April 24th, 2020 9:41:09 AM
“I’m not thinking I’d like to be wandering around here in the dark. What say we call it a night? I happen to keep a handy dandy extra dimensional mansion memorized for just such the situation.”
Velarin Xilontheel(Chris J), AC 17(FF 14), hp 157/157, extended mage armor(24 hrs) d20+29=41 ; d20+29=32 ; d20+29=36 ; Friday April 24th, 2020 9:45:16 AM
V racks his brain for knowledge on the contested lands, Rowena, and shadow mountain. Local knowledge 41,32,36.
AC 26/ T26/ F26 CMD24 (Fdom of Move) HP 164/164 Tishe’ (SteveK) d20=16 ; d20=6 ; d20=10 ; d20=17 ; d20=7 ; d20=1 ; d20=12 ; d20=7 ; d20+15=31 ; Friday April 24th, 2020 9:45:24 AM
(Ooc: please ignore first 6 d20s. Accidentally rolled as DM for CMTC)
Tishe’ is happy that Manolo is going to Cinnamon Valley, Magpie Crossing, and the Manor via the swift way and not the much more dangerous overland route into the Dread. She thinks of the lay of the lands about their homeland, and the road they have elected to take: straight through The Dread. She wonders if The Dread had a capital or main lair. (Know Local: 31). She tells the others what she recalls; maybe just checking to ensure no new evil has taken residence?
The Spellweaver keeps in the back with Lanliss, making sure the powerful but less resilient Emrys is between herself and Velarin. With Emrys playing scout and Barratorre taking first place in the main group, that accounts for all the Keepers.
Tishe’ thinks they should camp using a Magnificent Mansion, and still offers to take first watch.
.... Endure Elements, Extended. 48hr. Self. exist comfortably between -50 and 140 without Fort saves Detect Scry, Extended. 48hr 40’ radius. know when observed by divination.
Emrys Myrridanmyl, stephen f. ac22 hp117/117. rituals: Warding, Spiritual Healing, Charming, Contingency: BoL. Bless, Fly, Resist Energy {Fire), True Seeing d20+30=45 ; d20+17=32 ; Friday April 24th, 2020 12:54:58 PM
A change of scenery is a welcome respite ... even through it's the Dreadlands. Although barren and thick with natural curses, he tries to see the lands potential once the taint of undeath is purged.
"Culverwood could return this land to its former glory, it needn't be a blight upon the Wold."
Emrys tries to recall what this land was before its current state. (Knowledge [Local]: 45. Knowledge [Geography]: 32.)
(Dan K) AC: 39 (T 17 FF 30), CMD:43; HP: 246/246 Barratore Steelwind d20+21=24 ; d20+12=31 ; Friday April 24th, 2020 7:08:53 PM
Barratore agrees,"we make camp and put up a watch. I'll take the first shift". So far everything had been uneventful, and th fighter was a bit put off by it. At least until he reminds himself of the possible big picture to what that means.
Know geography 24 Know local 31
"Isn't the Culver wood kinda aware and not overly friendly to those not native to it. Not sure I want that closer to home Emrys. No offense."
If the dreadlands are quieting, Barratore's thoughts go to the Contested kingdoms and Rowena. Both areas are historically volatile, and so the fighter takes some time that evening to fill in on a map what he knows of the nearest lords in the Contested kingdoms and Rowena's interior
"Perhaps we should side trek and make our presence known so no one gets any over zealous ideas."
Lanliss Drakeguard Michael A; AC: 26 (T 19, FF 18), CMD:31 HP:34/ (87)141 d20+6=25 ; d20+15=35 ; Friday April 24th, 2020 8:34:28 PM
Lanliss remembers a little about the area called THARN....what was it....he heard about THARN , when was drinking with Barratore...being drunk that time did not help that much... or perhaps....its was something he learned at the academy ?
Local Knowledge 25 Geography Knowledge 35 (natural 20)
Lanliss will volunteer to the take the middle shift on the watching duty.
OOC: Major thanks for the roleplay help regarding Manolo, Steve OOC2# If I understand correctly he is not with the group ?
Crossing the Dread (DM Cayzle) d20+31=34 ; d20+31=41 ; Saturday April 25th, 2020 10:59:02 AM
Edson is quiet as he scouts ahead through the bleak landscape.
Velarin wants to camp, and mentions his mage’s mansion. He also thinks about geography as the group travels overland. Here is common knowledge about Shadow Mountain, which is somewhat far away, BTW. The Contested Lands are a lot of independent freeholds, castles, and villages, each politically on its own, often warring. Rowena is a peaceful land of nice folks, but known for its strong standing army and its GREAT hostility to witches!
Tishe’ thinks about the Dreadlands, and its former capitol. Yes, there was a Dreadlord who ruled the place, but he was opposed by a couple groups of heroes, and eventually defeated by one, a dragon group, she seems to recall. The Storm Dragons, maybe? That was years ago, and the Dreadlands are (very) gradually becoming more safe. SHe likes Velarin’s mansion idea.
Emrys too thinks about the Dreadlands, and wonders if it was ever not infested with death. If there’s an answer to that, it is lost to ages gone by.
Barratore chats with Emrys about the complicated nature of the Culverwood and magical forests. He thinks about the Valley’s neighbors and worries about threats, but in fact there has been peace for a number of years. Of course, several famous hero groups have made the Valley home in recent years, and enemies tend to think twice about tackling powerful adventurers.
Lanliss, thinking of Tharn, recalls the story of a party of adventures led by a crazy halfling called Captain Lucky and a formidable Minotaur called Marcasthai who fought undead in Tharn a long time ago. Tharn is a peaceful place usually, but there are times (as in most places in the Wold) when heroes have to step forward to protect the helpless.
At sunset you decide to make a camp instead of continuing on. Just as the sun dips under the hills to the west, vast dark shadows emerge from the very ground, before the Mage's Mansion is cast. You hear a shrieking cry of despair that chills the blood and causes the hairs on the back of your necks to stand erect. We are in combat! Please make Perception checks to see if you are surprised.
If you make a DC34 Perception check: Highlight to display spoiler: {You see a dragon-shaped shadow creature, as if a wraith had somehow defeated and converted a dragon into a draco-wraith! You can act! Map to come Sunday, but you are 15 ft away, within its reach, but not yours!}
If your Perception check also beats a DC41: Highlight to display spoiler: {You see another one! On the opposite side of the party! Also 15 ft away opposite.}
IF YOU FAIL TO MAKE A DC34 PERCEPTION CHECK, YOU ARE SURPRISED, FLAT-FOOTED AND CANNOT ACT THIS ROUND! (Please make an RP post and make sure your AC and such are up to date!
(Dan K) AC: 39 (T 16 FF 34), CMD:43; HP: 246/246 Barratore Steelwind d20+17=33 ; Saturday April 25th, 2020 1:24:47 PM
Nthe group talks up about what they all know and it seems everyone rolls into the same conclusion, there is nothing of note anywhere close worth the time of the group. "I think we need to exit the area in a major way. Nothing really in the Contested lands is going on, or has for years. Nothing in Rowena, the Dreadlands and lord are all but destroyed and we're like the 4th group of heroes to stomp though here. We get home and I think im going to be moving on."
No one is surprised, least of all the fighter, that he is indeed surprised, by the sudden attack.
Emrys Myrridanmyl, Stephen F. ac17 hp125/125. rituals: Warding, Spiritual Healing, Charming, Contingency: BoL. Bless d20+23=36 ; d20+30=34 ; d20+23=30 ; Saturday April 25th, 2020 5:46:22 PM
(Perception: 36)
As they all consider camping for the night, Emrys can't think of a known time when these lands weren't slathered in the icky, black ichor of undeath. Even as the shadow of that thought descends upon, he can't help but feel a slight fondness for the place ... or is that the ring's influence? Or is it the Draco-Wraith rising up out of the ground; who knows? "DRACO-WRAITH! EVERYONE ... TO ARMS!!"
(Knowledge [Religion]: 34 to know if wraiths are intelligent undead.)
He isn't all entire sure, but he thinks Wraiths do show a level of intelligence in their strategy and actions. So he decides to manipulate his next spell with witchy meta-hackery to boost its effectiveness.
(Emrys casts HIDE FROM UNDEAD, enhanced by the Heighten Spell Metamagic. Spell Heightened to 8th Level. Spell Resist: 30, if necessary. Will Save: 30. Targets: One touched creature/level. Duration: 190 minutes. Undead creatures can't see, hear or smell creatures warded by this spell.)
AC 26/ T26/ F26 CMD24 (Fdom of Move) HP 164/164 Tishe’ (SteveK) d20+25=45 ; d20+15=21 ; d20+30=49 ; Sunday April 26th, 2020 4:44:54 PM
Tishe’ must be looking at the perfect spots, because she is very surprised that she notices not one, but ... “Two! There are two Draco-Wraiths!” Tishe’ thinks and discards a half-dozen ideas in the space of the blink of an eye. “It worked with the Undead Kaiju”, she mutters and moves to stand in between the Keepers and the second Draco-Wraith, and defensively cast a Resilient Sphere around herself
...... Perception: 45 Acrobatics if going into threatened area 21 Defense Cast. (Concentration). 49 ResSphere - 19’ diameter centered on Tishe’. Bubble of force. (Force walls stop incorporal)
Endure Elements, Extended. 48hr. Self. exist comfortably between -50 and 140 without Fort saves Detect Scry, Extended. 48hr 40’ radius. know when observed by divination.
Lanliss Drakeguard Michael A; AC: 26 (T 19, FF 18), CMD:31 HP:34/ (87)141 d20+27=40 ; Sunday April 26th, 2020 6:42:04 PM
Lanliss goes to one of the sides to be prepared for battle
Perception 40
OOC: will think about Manolo and will decide tomorrow
Edson Kazil - Shawn R; AC: 31(T 21, FF 20), CMD: 24 HP: 128/128 d20+27=34 ; d20+26=44 ; d20+21=40 ; d20+16=28 ; d8+5=13 ; d8+5=9 ; d8+5=11 ; d6=4 ; d6=3 ; d6=3 ; Sunday April 26th, 2020 11:46:59 PM
Edson easily sees the dragon looking wraiths. waiting to see how the others react, he fires his bow.
Hit ac 44 , 13 dmg + 4 flaming Hit ac 40, 9 dmg + 3 flaming Hit ac 28, 11dmg +3 flaming
Emrys Myrridanmyl, Stephen F. ac17 hp125/125. rituals: Warding, Spiritual Healing, Charming, Contingency: BoL. Bless Sunday April 26th, 2020 11:51:36 PM
(ooc: Emrys forgot to mention this, but he does touch as many of the Keepers that he can (up to six targets within reach in one round. Up to 19 total over 4 rounds) ... taking a 5ft step if he must. He was wanting everyone to benefit of his Hide from Undead spell.)
Velarin Xilontheel(Chris J), AC 17(FF 14), hp 157/157, extended mage armor(24 hrs) d20+23=36 ; d20+28=46 ; d20+28=30 ; Monday April 27th, 2020 7:51:02 AM
"Aw nuts." chimes in the wizard as he perceives the first of the draco wraiths. "This is probably not going to be good. He defensively casts haste on the party, and then defensively casts a quickened fly on himself.(checks of 40 and 30. both good)
Contingency: Break enchantment activated when affected by mind or body control spells Bless(permanent)
Crossing the Dread (DM Cayzle) d20+19=20 ; d20+19=23 ; Monday April 27th, 2020 3:21:10 PM
[OOC Map Notes: If you object to my placement of your PC on the map, please let me know. Since you did not have a map, I’m ignoring AoOs provoked by shooting and casting for this round. Now that you have a map, for the coming rounds, please be aware of this danger.]
Barratore is surprised by the sudden onslaught of the wraithlike, draconic undead! Everyone else notes that an enemy has arrived.
Emrys casts his metamagicked spontaneous spell (and doing so raises the casting time to a full round, thanks for remembering). He takes a five ft step to touch as many as possible with the protective magic. That’s himself, Velarin, Tishe’, and Barratore -- and note that if you make any attack, you break the Hide from Undead spell for ALL!
Emrys also searched his brain for any lore on these monsters. He recalls that they are called Wyrmwraiths, intelligent, self-motivated and mercilessly evil creaures with over 20 hit dice. They create undead, have a negative energy breath weapon, and are powerless in true sunlight -- that’s why they waited for the sun to set before attacking.
Tishe’ casts a Resilient sphere.
[OOC: There seems to be some room for table variation regarding bystanders who are next to the target of a resilient sphere. My interpretation, serving for this battle: If the target of a Resilient Sphere makes their save, the spell fails entirely. If the target fails, then the sphere forms. Other creatures close enough to the target to be affected by the sphere can choose to join the target inside the sphere (if they fit), or be moved to the nearest point beyond the sphere. This is also the option of default for creatures who do not fit. But who are partly in the sphere.
SO, Tishe casts the spell on herself (choosing to fail her save), so she is at the center of the 19-ft diameter sphere. Also potentially within the sphere, Emrys and Velarin must decide: Do you choose to stay in the sphere, or do you choose to stay outside, pushed away from your current spot?
Velarin needs to decide: In the sphere or out of it. If in, you can only haste those inside. If out, you can only haste those outside. Or would you prefer not to cast the haste spell at all?
Emrys has to decide too, but his actions happened before the sphere went up!
Lanliss positions himself for the fight [OOC: See map link below and choose your location. In fact, you can also take a round of actions.]
Edson shoots at the AC31 incorporeal foe -- the one with purple highlights -- and hits twice. Physical damage is halved, but not fire damge. Two arrows hit, inflicting 17 damage to the purple dracowraith.
WHAT THE DMS NEED TO FINISH THE PLAYER TURN: (1) Map positions confirmed for all PCs. (2) Velarin and Emrys choice to be in the resilient sphere or no. (3) Lanliss map position and round of actions. We’ll update and possible retcon as needed as soon as we get answers.
=====
ENEMY TURN
First things first, did the dracowraiths resist the Hide spell? Two will saves vs DC30 ... FAIL! Still, they know you were there just moments ago, and one of you cast a spell just before that, and Int 20, so, yeah, they have an idea of what is going on. But Tishe’ was invisible to them when the sphere was cast ...
Well, there is nothing like a solid breath weapon to start off a fight. Invisible or no! That’s TWO 60-ft. Cones for 20d6 negative energy and 1 negative level, Reflex DC 22 half damage. Tishe’ in her sphere is unaffected, ditto anyone else in there. Those outside the sphere, for ONE of those saves, please give yourself a +4 cover bonus on that one save, representing the cover provided by the sphere from one direction.
If you fail a save vs a DC22 breath weapon, you take 70 hp negative energy damage and gain one negative level. If you save, you take 35 damage and avoid the negative level. Standard evasion, etc applies. And yes, sure, you can pick whether to be inside or outside the sphere based on knowing that the breath weapons are coming, but NOT based on whether or not you saved! :-)
Emrys, Velarin, Tishe’, and Barratore, keep in mind that if you make an attack, the Hide from Undead breaks for all.
=====
Purple Dracowraith: AC31, -17 hp damage Black Dracowraith: AC31, 0 hp damage
And the Map! Note that in this barren, broken, ashen land, ALL TERRAIN IS DIFFICULT!
AC 26/ T26/ F26 CMD24 (Fdom of Move) HP 164/164 Tishe’ (SteveK) Monday April 27th, 2020 5:15:06 PM
Tishe’ winces as not one but two undead dragons breathe into the spot she was standing and vulnerable just a moment ago. “And now, the second part of this tactics pattern”, she quips. Touching Emrys and Velarin, she casts a Swift Featherfall Spell, then a Dimension Door, going straight up 100 feet, and freeing the other two casters for whatever spells they want to weave.
‘Barratorre is going to have to fight’, she thinks over the telepathic link, ‘so the undead invisibility is going to break anyways. May as well make the most of it!’
...... FeatherFall (immediate action). Tishe, Velarin, and Emrys (if in the sphere). Fall 60’ per round. Dim Door. 100’ up
ResSphere - 19’ bubble. 2 of 19 rounds
Endure Elements, Extended. 48hr. Self. exist comfortably between -50 and 140 without Fort saves Detect Scry, Extended. 48hr 40’ radius. know when observed by divination.
Lanliss Drakeguard Michael A; AC: 26 (T 19, FF 18), CMD:31 HP:34/ (87)141 d20+18=33 ; d20+22=41 ; d3=1 ; d20+22=30 ; Monday April 27th, 2020 5:28:45 PM
Lanliss starts at K8 Lanliss successfully manages to escape both of the dragons attacks.
Use magic device 33
Reflex #1 41 Reflex #2 1 Used Hero point to re-roll if it is fine( now only have 1) Reflex #3 30
OOC: going to use magic device 33 OOC: assuming I can use Improved evasion ! OOC: Do I get affected by Emrys spell ? OOC: will post an additional post when I get more info (:
Cayzle Comments: Improved Evasion is perfect for no damage! You are not affected by Emrys's spell (you were not close enough). Note that you have TWO rounds of actions, last round and this round. You can use that magic item twice, for example!
Lanliss Drakeguard Michael A; AC: 26 (T 19, FF 18), CMD:31 HP:34/ (87)141 d20+40=47 ; d20+40=50 ; d20+40=43 ; d20+42=54 ; Monday April 27th, 2020 9:01:02 PM
Lanliss uses the scroll of Invisibility Greater on himself and start moving further away from the group while trying to do a jump here and there to skip a few difficult patch of rocks and other things blocking and also impeding his way. He tries to be stealthy and not make anything that will give the dragons a clue about his whereabouts. Telepathically he relies, ' I am going to left flank the dragon on the left' Lanliss move near the dragon but still not in a flanking position (move to D6 if possible if not than move in that direction like E7 if possible)
OOC:Ignore the other 2 result mistake of pressing on the <- Enter key... _( 50 and 43)
Acrobatics 43 Stealth 54
OOC: if it is taking too many actions please ignore the acrobatics and only apply the stealth one (:
(Dan K) AC: 39 (T 16 FF 34), CMD:43; HP: 176/246 Barratore Steelwind d20+16=23 ; d20+16=29 ; d20+31=45 ; 6d8+36=72 ; d20+31=51 ; d20+31=51 ; 6d8+36=62 ; 6d8+36=64 ; Monday April 27th, 2020 10:43:28 PM
Barratore quickly ducks in behind the sphere as it springs into existence and avoids the brunt of both of the dragon breath weapon attacks.
Oh you got that right. Barratore telepathically replies to Tishe. I'm getting my dragon on.
Barratore activates his tattoo, Ghost Weapon, and grins at the purple dragon. The fighter Nimble moves towards the dragon and strikes. Free 5' closer to the purple dragon
Power Attack, Gtr Penetrating Strike, Greater Vital Strike Hit AC 45 Dmg 72
The fighter then heroically strikes again Power Attack, Gtr Penetrating Strike, Greater Vital Strike Hit AC 51 crit 51 Dmg 62 crit 64
Emrys Myrridanmyl, Stephen F. ac17 hp122/125. rituals: Warding, Spiritual Healing, Charming, Contingency: BoL. Bless, Spectral Hand d4=3 ; Monday April 27th, 2020 11:51:05 PM
Emrys takes Tishe up on her offer: sphere, feather fall and dimension door. He knew that there was no way to keep the others from fighting. He knew the spell would break after a moment or two, but that would give the others six to twelve seconds that they probably wouldn't have had. A lot can happen in that amount of time.
He tells everyone across party radio, "WYRMWRAITHS ... THEY'RE ARE POWERLESS IN TRUE SUNLIGHT!" He isn't sure how helpful that is since the sun has already set.
As he begins to drop, with Quickened Rod in hand, a spectral hand suddenly appears.
He trusts that Edson and Lanliss will try and keep their distance for now. However, he knows where Barratore is going. He sends his spectral hand forth and touches the minotaur on the shoulder.
(Emrys casts DEATH WARD on BARRATORE. Duration: 19 minutes.)
Velarin Xilontheel(Chris J), AC 17(FF 14), hp 157/157, extended mage armor(24 hrs) 10d6+9=43 ; 19d6+9=76 ; Tuesday April 28th, 2020 6:45:14 AM
As Tishe's resilient sphere rolls around him, V chooses to be encapsulated for defense, having a good idea that a very nasty breath weapon is coming. Knowing that Barratore is the only one that truly benefits from a haste and has his own ways to do it, V disregards the haste spell.
About to work on a quick plan, Tishe's saves him the trouble by Dim dooring the three casters 100' in the air where he can cast with a little more space, and since he has fly already up, he begins hovering in place. He then casts a quickened fireball at the black wraith followed by a sunburst, making sure both spells are far enough back from the wraith that they only effect him.
Fireball: reflex save 24 for 1/2 damage. damage 43 or 21
Sunburst: 76 damage and blinded. reflex save 30 to reduce damage to 38 and negate blindness. Any undead specifically harmed by bright light/sun light are destroyed if they fail their save.
(ooc: Cayzle did you ever get a ruling on whether or not the eschew materials feat negated the need for a fire source for the spell? I know we went with it working last time, but you said you were going to consult the DM board)
Contingency: Break enchantment activated when affected by mind or body control spells Bless(permanent)
Crossing the Dread (DM Cayzle) Tuesday April 28th, 2020 7:41:01 AM
[OOC to Velarin: per Rules Board consensus, with Eschew Materials you can ignore the fire source requirement.]
Hasted Edson, fires 4 times but only connects once. 3 dmg(already halved) +4 flame
Lanliss Drakeguard Michael A; AC: 26 (T 19, FF 18), CMD:31 HP:34/ (87)141 d10+42=50 ; Tuesday April 28th, 2020 4:25:42 PM
Lanliss is near the dragons, his desire to attack is strong but he stops himself from getting too close to the dragon.
' I am near the dragon, almost flanking it from the left side', he relies telepathically 'Need any help in distracting him, folks , any plans for magic attack before I attack him?'
Lanliss asks the group for any plans they might have before he acts hastily without thinking..
Meanwhile Lanliss keeps himself in check...trying to not cause anything that might reveal his position to the dragons.
Action#1 : Stealth 50
Lanilss readies him self to any possible attack as well... he doesn't know if the dragon can smell him but it is never bad to prepare for the worst..
Action#2 : Total defense (+4 to AC) if possible otherwise act defensibly this round (+2 to AC & -4 on all possible attacks)
(Dan K) AC: 39 (T 16 FF 34), CMD:43; HP: 176/246 Barratore Steelwind Tuesday April 28th, 2020 10:01:31 PM
The fighter prepares himself for the dragons retaliatory strike, thankful for Emrys’ Deathward spell. Given the breath weapons, he was pretty sure it would be coming in handy
Emrys Myrridanmyl, Stephen F. ac17 hp122/125. rituals: Warding, Spiritual Healing, Charming, Contingency: BoL. Bless, Spectral Hand Tuesday April 28th, 2020 10:36:58 PM
Emrys takes in the view from above and considers his next actions carefully.
Crossing the Dread (DM Cayzle) d20+40=43 ; 3d6+24=38 ; 5d8=22 ; d4=1 ; 3d6+24=36 ; Wednesday April 29th, 2020 2:48:54 AM
Tishe’ continues with her plan, teleporting via interdimensional space, with the hidden casters, straight up 100 feet and leaving the sphere behind -- then feather falling back down!
Lanliss nimbly avoids the first wyrm’s breath, then drawing upon his inner strength, evades the second one as well, completely avoiding the devastating waves of dark energy. He then adroitly interprets his scroll, casting greater invisibility on himself and moving to a flank position.
Barratore is able to avoid the full brunt of both breaths, avoiding the drains but not all of the damage. Then it is time to bring the fight to the closest wyrm, the purple one, hitting it with his ghost weapon once for 72 damage, then again for an additional 126 points.
Emrys recognizes the threat and informs the others. As he gently descends from his position above the sphere, he casts quickened spectral hand and uses that to grant death ward on Barratore.
Velarin also full advantage of Tishe’s spells, avoiding the dreaded breath weapons and unloads on the black wyrm. The creature deflects some of the fireball, but does not avoid the sunburst. It is blinded and takes double damage! That’s 21+152 damage against the black one.
Edson shoots four times and hits once for 7.
=====
ENEMY TURN
The Purple Draco-Wraith uses its amazing acrobatics skill to get away from Barratore, rolling a 43, exactly what it needs to beat the taur’s CMD! With its Flyby Attack feat, it can move, act, and then move some more. When it is safely away and out of Barratore’s reach, it lets lose with a unholy blight (Will save DC 20 vs Edson and Barratore) and a quickened finger of death (Fort DC 23 vs Edson only).
Edson vs Finger of Death: Fail a Fort save DC23 or take 240 hp damage. Make the save and take 38 hp damage. This is a death attack.
Edson and Barratore vs Unholy Blight: Fail a Will save DC20 or take 22 hp damage plus one round sickened (-2 on all d20 rolls). Make the save and take 11 hp damage. This is an evil attack, but not a death attack.
THEN, continuing its Flyby attack, the incorporeal undead sinks into the earth at about V-11.
Meanwhile, the other one, the Black Draco-Wraith, flies up 20 feet, bringing it within range of Velarin, casts a Protection from Good and a Quickened Finger of Death, and then, via Flyby Attack, flies 60 ft down into the ground, at about G-5.
Velarin vs Finger of Death: Fail a Fort save DC23 or take 240 hp damage. Make the save and take 36 hp damage. This is a death attack.
Combat is not over, but you have no enemy to attack. Presumably they are underground, waiting to pop out and damage you!
=====
Purple Dracowraith: AC31, -215 hp damage Black Dracowraith: AC31, -173 hp damage
And the Map! Note that in this barren, broken, ashen land, ALL TERRAIN IS DIFFICULT!
Velarin Xilontheel(Chris J), AC 17(FF 14), hp 157/157, extended mage armor(24 hrs) d20+16=21 ; d20+16=34 ; Wednesday April 29th, 2020 7:41:50 AM
V feels himself falling to the icy grip of death as the Dracowraith's finger of death spell begins to overwhelm him he heroically pulls himself back to the land of the living(fort 21 fail, hero point reroll 34 success)
V flies another 60' straight up and waits for one or both of the dragons to appear.
"Let's walk home through the dreadlands he says...It'll be fun he says...we can kill a bunch of undead on the way he says..."
"I don't know how long it takes them to create undead or to call for a little assistance, but we are not suited to playing cat and mouse with wraiths popping up to strike from underground. Brilliant ideas anyone?"
Contingency: Break enchantment activated when affected by mind or body control spells Bless(permanent)
AC 26/ T26/ F26 CMD24 (Fdom of Move) HP 164/164 Tishe’ (SteveK) d20+25=35 ; Wednesday April 29th, 2020 11:03:38 AM
Tishe’ weaves a Fly spell on herself and goes into a Hover. Using the telepathic link of the Keepers, she responds to Velarin. ‘A Wall of Force parallel to the ground can be a fighting platform the dragons can’t reach through. They could still do Fly By attacks, but could give a measure of protection.’
Hovering, Tishe’ Readies a Dispel Magic to counter the first spell or spell-like effect used by either targetable dragon
......
Cast Fly Hover. (DC 15; auto succeed) Ready Dispel Magic - 35. Success vs spell cast by 24lvl caster
ResSphere - 19’ bubble. 3 of 19 rounds
Endure Elements, Extended. 48hr. Self. exist comfortably between -50 and 140 without Fort saves Detect Scry, Extended. 48hr 40’ radius. know when observed by divination.
Edson Kazil - Shawn R; AC: 31(T 21, FF 20), CMD: 24 HP: -112/128 d20+10=14 ; d20+10=14 ; Wednesday April 29th, 2020 1:12:20 PM
Edson cluthes his chest and drops, even trying to be heroic isn't enough for the rogue as the darkness covers his eyes.
Ooc: Used a hero point and failed.
Lanliss Drakeguard Michael A; AC: 26 (T 19, FF 18), CMD:31 HP:34/ (87)141 d20+42=48 ; d20+40=43 ; Wednesday April 29th, 2020 6:09:58 PM
Lanliss keeps himself hidden for the time being. He jumps and hops whenever and wherever he can trying to be near Barratore but a little with a distance from him....just in case the dragons decide to do something..
Lanliss moves as far as he can to be near Barratore but still keeping a distance of 5 ft from him.
Action: move to 10P or 10 O Stealth 48+20 =68(because of the spell I assume) Acrobatics 43
(Dan K) AC: 38 (T 15 FF 34), CMD:43; HP: 165/246 Barratore Steelwind d20+16=29 ; d20+31=37 ; d20+31=47 ; d20+31=44 ; 2d8+29=38 ; 2d8+29=42 ; 2d8+29=39 ; Wednesday April 29th, 2020 9:19:53 PM
The Unholy Blight is a minor issue, Edson dropping was a bigger one. Thought Warrd was on their side these days. The dragons are gone and that limited what Barratore could do. "Solid suggestion Tishe, can you cahnge the dimensions of the normal 10x10? Say 1 inch high and running like a great winding snake along the ground? They can't pass through no matter how high the wall is and as they are huge, you can leave 5' lanes as you wind it back and forth"
Barratore moves just north and reaches out and picks Edson up. Dragons are smart, they wont be getting close to him when they come up. He activates his torc and grows to Huge. They very well might come closer than they thought they could. AoO jic Power Attack Hit AC 37 / 47 / 44 Dmg 38 / 42 / 39
Will Save 29
Spell: Death Ward Enlarge 15' reach +2 str -1 Att -1 AC
Emrys Myrridanmyl, Stephen F. ac17 hp122/125. rituals: Warding, Spiritual Healing, Charming, Contingency: BoL. Bless, Spectral Hand d12=3 ; d12=12 ; d12=8 ; d12=9 ; d12=6 ; Thursday April 30th, 2020 12:24:06 AM
If Emrys is still falling, he sends his spectral hand to Edson and it delivers a touch. Through it Emrys sends a Life Touch (bloodwitch ability).
(Emrys gives EDSON a LIFE TOUCH, same as BREATH OF LIFE, empowered by Spiritual Healing. Brings back to life, if given within a round. Heals 5d12+19: 3+12+8+9+6+19 = 57. Not near enough is it!)
"EDSON!!!" he yells! "Not again!" He looks to the others and asks, "Do you want to finish these unholy beasts ... or Word of Recall back to the Manor house? If we don't deal with Edson soon, he will become one of them!!"
Velarin Xilontheel(Chris J), AC 17(FF 14), hp 157/157, extended mage armor(24 hrs) Thursday April 30th, 2020 7:29:04 AM
"Me personally, I'm thinking we need to get Edson to the manor and see if he can be saved ASAP."
Crossing the Dread (DM Cayzle) Thursday April 30th, 2020 5:44:28 PM
Ascending, Velarin almost succumbs to the dracowraith’s spell, but this hero is not to be taken out so easily! He then reconsiders their recent life choices and calls out for ideas.
Tishe’ casts fly, suggests blocking the creatures with a wall of force, and readies to dispel any further magical attacks from their hidden foes. [OOC: How is Tishe casting a spell and readying an action? That’s two standard actions. Is she quickening the fly? I’ll assume for now that that is the case.]
Edson, however, is unable to resist their foe’s deathly attack this time and collapses a blackish green wisp floats away from his fallen body. [OOC: You used a hero point for the reroll, but note that the rules allow another option. The Cheat Death rules do allow you to use two hero points to avoid this dire situation. If you were not aware of the Cheat Death rule, you may use it now, AND spend two MORE hero points if you so desire.]
Lanliss furtively tries to avoid the now hidden creatures and moves closer to Barratore.
Barratore worries about Edson, but also about future attacks and proposes a configuration for Tishe’s spell. He then moves to recover Edson and goes huge, hoping to catch an appear dracowraith by surprise at his enhanced reach..
Emrys feather falls to the ground and tries to revive Edson with his life touch, but the healing power is insufficient to counter the deadly energy unleashed against his companion. [OOC: not enough is correct. That gets him to -55. He needs to be at least up to -11 to revive. Also, Emrys, it is kind of moot, but the spectral hand can only deliver spells, not spell-like abilities, right? Also, the Ritual of Spiritual Healing affects spells, not spell-like abilities, right? Those shoulda been d8s. Moot, though this time.]
Anguished, the bloodwitch asks the others what they should do about Edson.
=====
ENEMY TURN
The Black Draco-Wraith appears at about F7. It casts waves of exhaustion at the group, but Tishe’ counters that. Then it casts finger of death at Tishe’! Fail a Fort save DC23 or take 240 hp damage. Make the save and take 36 hp damage. This is a death attack. Finally, the dark undead uses Flyby attack to sink back into the ground.
The other draco-wraith does not make an appearance.
Combat is not over, but you have no enemy to attack. Presumably they are underground, waiting to pop out and damage you!
=====
Purple Dracowraith: AC31, -215 hp damage Black Dracowraith: AC31, -173 hp damage
And the Map! Note that in this barren, broken, ashen land, ALL TERRAIN IS DIFFICULT!
Lanliss Drakeguard Michael A; AC: 26 (T 19, FF 18), CMD:31 HP:34/ (87)141 d20+40=55 ; d20+18=32 ; Thursday April 30th, 2020 7:30:26 PM
Lanliss comprehends the situations slowly, Edson and now possiblly Tishe'... The situation is dire. He almost shouts the name.....,'Gragul, he thinks. Where was this god.....Lanliss thought for a second and how would they deal with only 2 enemies that is currently almost going to kill them all. 'What is the plan ? a solid fog or perhaps a mist of some kind might help ', Lanliss relies to the keeprs. Lanliss doesn't move for now.
Stealth 55+20=75 (a possible action) Use Magic Device 32
OOC : Can cast an Obscuring Mist or Solid Fog otherwise can cast cure wounds on who needs it the most (if it helps).
(Dan K) AC: 38 (T 15 FF 34), CMD:43; HP: 165/246 Barratore Steelwind Thursday April 30th, 2020 9:56:54 PM
Barratore watches the dragon surface cast a pair of spells and then descend into the ground again. "Warrd you stink more than anything that has fallen from my backside." the minotaur curses
"The dragons life sense, DO we know the range? That would be useful. Or can one of you miracle up a sunrise? Myabe conjure earth elementals to engage them in the earth? Make me incorporeal so i can go destroy 'em!"
Barratore calls forth a potion of Fly and drinks it
Spells Enlarge 9/10 Deathward Fly
AC 26/ T26/ F26 CMD24 (Fdom of Move) HP 128/164 Tishe’ (SteveK) d20+20=24 ; Thursday April 30th, 2020 10:18:00 PM
Tishe’ is thankful that being a Spellweaver allows her to Ready counterspells as a Move action, and counters the Waves of Exhaustion as the Draco Wraith pops out of the ground, but she realizes she is going to need a heroic effort to overcome the Finger of Death! Setting herself, the woman barely overcomes the powerful spell!
It still hurts, and Tishe’ moves down and to the side 5’ to not be a sitting duck. ‘Going to be a hard weave to disengage all at once. Do we agree to do it on the count of 6? Run together and Word of recall?’
While she gets an answer, she takes her time to Ready another spell, this time a Slow Spell on the first Draco-Wraith that shows its shadowy head.
....... Used Hero Point before the roll. +8 to roll, w+12 Fort = +20 = 24 and saves. Hover. (DC 15; auto succeed) Ready Slow Will DC 20 or Staggered (move or action, not both; can’t do full round action), and -1 AC, attack, and reflex
ResSphere - 19’ bubble. 4 of 19 rounds
Endure Elements, Extended. 48hr. Self. exist comfortably between -50 and 140 without Fort saves Detect Scry, Extended. 48hr 40’ radius. know when observed by divination.
Velarin Xilontheel(Chris J), AC 17(FF 14), hp 121/157, extended mage armor(24 hrs) Friday May 1st, 2020 8:08:13 AM
V will drop to 120' in the air
V will cast his wall of force as per Tishe's and Barratore's suggestion. (V will follow Barratore's suggestion, making a long winding path throughut the area that they are in. Your call Cayzle, on whether the spell allows that to happen. Should that be out of the spells ability, V will go with a very large 1' thick horizontal plane 100'x90' with the edge right next to the keepers. Your call on that as well as the spell doesn't specify being able to make it horizontal.)
Should V determine the wall of force options will not work, he informs the rest of the Keepers and readies a sunburst for the first Draco head to pop up out of the ground.
Contingency: Break enchantment activated when affected by mind or body control spells Bless(permanent)
Velarin Xilontheel(Chris J), AC 17(FF 14), hp 121/157, extended mage armor(24 hrs) Friday May 1st, 2020 8:10:02 AM
(ooc: if the rest of the party agrees to the word of recall, V will wait to the count of 3 to fly down to those on the ground so that all the keepers will be together.)
Edson Kazil - Shawn R; AC: 31(T 21, FF 20), CMD: 24 HP: -112/128 Friday May 1st, 2020 8:52:09 AM
Edson draws a breath. His eyes are still closed, but something in him kicks his lungs into action. He doesn't know how close to death he was.. only dreams of better times.
Ooc: Use the other 2 hero points for the cheat death option.
Emrys Myrridanmyl, Stephen F. ac17 hp102/125. rituals: Warding, Spiritual Healing, Charming, Contingency: BoL. Bless, Spectral Hand Friday May 1st, 2020 10:45:57 AM
IF the group is preparing to be Recalled back to the manor house, he casts a quickened spell in preparation. The effects of the necromancy claims some of his vitality and his skin turns a shade of pale.
(Emrys casts a quickened Surrender Blood; enhanced by Quicken Spell metamagic. He takes -20 hit points, but gains +4 caster level on his next spell.)
"Barratore, I require you to return to your normal size." When they all finally gather, he will speak the Word of Recall.
(Emrys casts Word of Recall. Enhanced by Surrender Blood: 23rd Caster Level, which is good enough to teleport 6 medium and 1 large creatures. Which is enough for everyone and Daemon.)
Crossing the Dread (DM Cayzle) Friday May 1st, 2020 12:01:00 PM
OOC: Before doing the turn, let me confirm ... is the party agreeing on the Word of Recall?
AC 26/ T26/ F26 CMD24 (Fdom of Move) HP 128/164 Tishe’ (SteveK) Friday May 1st, 2020 2:01:09 PM
Tishe’ agrees
Lanliss Drakeguard Michael A; AC: 26 (T 19, FF 18), CMD:31 HP:34/ (87)141 d20+18=19 ; Friday May 1st, 2020 8:36:57 PM
Lanliss agrees to flee the battle. Lanliss tries to cast spell just before the keepers flee from the battle, just to make sure the have a more easy escape.
Use magic device 19 (rolled 1 so epic fail (: ) Spell: Solid fog.
Velarin Xilontheel(Chris J), AC 17(FF 14), hp 121/157, extended mage armor(24 hrs) Saturday May 2nd, 2020 6:43:06 AM
V agrees
(Dan K) AC: 38 (T 15 FF 34), CMD:43; HP: 165/246 Barratore Steelwind d20+31=36 ; 9d8+29=64 ; Saturday May 2nd, 2020 7:41:13 AM
Barratore will agree, but I'm not sure if Command Word item can be dismissed. If so he does so and will group up with the others, carrying Edson still.
If not, he flies over to drop Edson off and then readies an attack should the deco-wraiths appear
Readied attack, Hit AC 36. DMG 64 Ghost weapon, power attack, gtr vital strike
Spell Potion fly Enlarge Deathward
Crossing the Dread - Home at Last! (DM Cayzle) Saturday May 2nd, 2020 3:28:32 PM Lanliss takes evasive maneuvers that bring him close to Emrys and prepares to cast a spell.
Barratore is not happy, but now he can fly. He flies close to Emrys.
Velarin and Tishe’ ready spells as they approach Emrys.
Heroically, the unsinkable Edson Kazil shakes off the effects of the deadly spell! He’s at one hit point.
Emrys boosts himself with his own blood, then Recalls the group all to safety.
You are home at last, back at your Manor. Whew!
AC 26/ T26/ F26 CMD24 (Fdom of Move) HP 128/164 Tishe’ (SteveK) Sunday May 3rd, 2020 11:08:19 AM
Tishe’ is in a fight for their life and then they are in The Manor... it takes a minute to settle down and not wreck the furniture.
Lanliss Drakeguard Michael A; AC: 26 (T 19, FF 18), CMD:31 HP:34/ (87)141 Sunday May 3rd, 2020 7:21:04 PM
Lanliss is happy to be back at a safe place. He process what has just happened. They almost got killed easily....
Home at Last! (DM Cayzle) Sunday May 3rd, 2020 11:58:20 PM
Lanliss and Tishe’ are stunned by the transition from extremem danger to safety at home. The others, too, even more so.
Roel greets you all gently. “Welcome home, heroes. Please come, sit, be at ease.” He leads you to your common hall, where there is cheese, crackers, sausage, and wine at hand. He joins you sitting down, of course; as frail as he is, Roel can’t stand up for very long stretches.
He mentions that Manolo has arrived, and he offers his congratulations on your success in saving Effacia. He has heard some things from the refugees now returning home to the busy port through the teleportals. He mentions that Lady Dulcet has sent word that she is eager to meet with you all at your convenience.
[OOC: There is time now, between modules, for training, research, R&R, etc. Please feel free to mention any extra activities in which you have an interest, as well as engaging with Dulcet and other NPCs over the course of this week.]
Velarin Xilontheel(Chris J), AC 17(FF 14), hp 121/157, extended mage armor(24 hrs) Monday May 4th, 2020 7:36:54 AM
"Well that was fun. I'm definitely not building a summer home in the Dreadlands. I think i need to take some time to pen some new scrolls in the upcoming days. I used up quite a few while we were saving Effacia. Shall we heal up and recover before meeting with Dulcet?"
Contingency: Break enchantment activated when affected by mind or body control spells Bless(permanent)
(Dan K) AC: 38 (T 15 FF 34), CMD:43; HP: 165/246 Barratore Steelwind Monday May 4th, 2020 10:33:55 AM
Barratore arrives and promptly kicks a chair across the room sending it into an explosion of pieces against the far wall. He takes a breath and answers, "Unless Dulcet is planning to tell me all about hunting undead she can wait.. Those things are less than half a day from Effacia and even less so from the villages. Just 1 of them would turn the entire city into a dead zone and if that kind of power is still running about the Dreadlands right next door to us, that's where I'm going. We got some funds, I'm hitting the Catacombs."
Barratore turns and leaves and heads fro the magic portal
Emrys Myrridanmyl, Stephen F. ac17 hp102/125. rituals: Warding, Spiritual Healing, Charming, Contingency: BoL. Bless, Spectral Hand Monday May 4th, 2020 10:34:42 AM
"Edson! You're alive ... uh, barely, but alive! I thought you were dead for sure. Gargul would be proud ... and feel a bit cheated!"
Emrys quickly casts Heal spell on Edson, just in case there were still some dark energies causing his soul to continue circling the drain.
(Emrys casts HEAL on EDSON. Cures 150 points, plus a whole grocery list of conditions.)
He then inspects the rest of his friends for wounds and corruption.
AC 26/ T26/ F26 CMD24 (Fdom of Move) HP 128/164 Tishe’ (SteveK) Monday May 4th, 2020 12:49:40 PM
Tishe’ winces as Barratorre shatters a chair, but it is the minotaur’s thoughts that give her the most pause. “We have seen many instances where the stronger undead in The Dread are not as free to roam. “The banshees, the Lesser death, and now these Wyrmwraiths. Even though each was very close to farmers or miners, they didn’t attack until someone came on their lands. I don’t think it is as dire as you say.”
Still, the experience sticks in her craw. “Maybe we will have better knowledge if we speak with Dulcet. Fire-warned is fore-armed!”
Tishe’ wants to meet with each/all of the Pitchfork Council, both to report and also to learn more about The Dread and it’s inhabitants. She calls upon Lord Hmitri to see if the Council would meet at The Manor for the discussion/ meal.
Lanliss Drakeguard Michael A; AC: 26 (T 19, FF 18), CMD:31 HP:34/ (87)141 Monday May 4th, 2020 7:00:07 PM
Lanliss sighs at the sight of the violent happenings. 'Oh Barratore', Lanliss thinks, 'You are so frustrated.. to not destroy a worthy opponent in front of you', Lanliss train of thought stops abruptly. He smiles, "Manolo !", "How was the trip ? Did you find this place to your likening ?" , Lanliss asks Manolo. ... While listening to Manolo it dawns on Lanliss that he didn't actually have a proper plan for Manolo. Teaching someone to be a hero is not always easy, it definitely wasn't easy for Lanliss.
Edson Kazil - Shawn R; AC: 31(T 21, FF 20), CMD: 24 HP: -112/128 Monday May 4th, 2020 7:35:04 PM
Edson tenses up at the explosion of the chair. He watched his friend leave, but didn't add any witty joke. Barratore didn't seem in the mood.
" Ill go with you Tishe, to speak to them. "
Home at Last! (DM Cayzle) Monday May 4th, 2020 11:58:27 PM
Velarin proposes meeting with Dulcet.
A frustrated Barratore first wants to return and deal with the dangerous undead they fled.
Emrys heals Edson and is relieved to determine that no lingered effects remain.
Tishe’ counsels deliberation before becoming too concerned about the threat the wyrmwraiths pose and calls upon Lord Hmitri to arrange a meeting of the Pitchfork Council.
Edson Kazil volunteers to go with Tishe’ to deliver an invitation to the Pitchfork Council.
Lanliss, meanwhile, is happy to see Manolo, and the feeling is mutual. The boy is overflowing with the story of what happened to him, about the teleportals, about what that felt like to go from one place to another. Evidently Roel has found him a bedroom, and he is amazed at how big and nice it is!
The boy asks, “How were your travels, Sir Lanliss?”
At Strongwind Castle, Edson and Tishe’ deliver their invitation, if the Council will be so kind as to meet with the Keepers, hospitality offered by the Keepers. As usual, the lord of the keep does not stand on ceremony, taking a break from working his horses to call for mugs of cool ale.
“Lad and lady, of course we will be there. We’ve been hankering after news. Though it sure is nice to have messages going back and forth with Effacia -- did you know there’s a fellow setting up a mail company? -- we want to hear what our own adventurers have to say.”
He agrees to whatever date you suggest.
AC 26/ T26/ F26 CMD24 (Fdom of Move) HP 128/164 Tishe’ (SteveK) Tuesday May 5th, 2020 6:55:11 AM
Tishe’ beams, “Shady. Two days hence at an hour before sunset. That should give time for people who need to travel from across the Valley to get the news and arrive. And it will be time for our own people to gather what the need.”
The Spellweaver pats Lanliss and Edson’s arms in near-sibling affection. “Come my packmates, we have a lot to weave!”
Tishe’ busies herself with ensuring things are in order: clean Manor, plenty of both nibbblements and hearty fare (knowing how Barratorre and Edson like things) as well as both fruit juice cordials, light wines, and a butt of good beer (for the same reason)
She also spends time walking about Magpie Crossing and helping where and how available. Planning to range further afield after speaking with the Pitchfork Council.
She also stops by the Catacombs...
Velarin Xilontheel(Chris J), AC 17(FF 14), hp 121/157, extended mage armor(24 hrs) Tuesday May 5th, 2020 8:31:33 AM
V watches Barratore's outburst with a calm look. The wizard had expected as much, knowing the warrior had a hatred for running from a fight. But in this instance, the party made the logical move at the time. Facing a foe such as the twin draco wraiths would take some planning and preparation, or several people would likely perish.
v starts making a list in his head of the scrolls he wished to create, and perhaps as well, the spells he wished to purchase to add to his spellbook.
(Dan K) AC: 38 (T 15 FF 34), CMD:43; HP: 165/246 Barratore Steelwind Tuesday May 5th, 2020 2:47:40 PM
Barratore heads out of Magpie at a jog. He had heard Tishe and he had an understanding of that as well as the need to strategically retreat, but it made him no less upset. Perhaps a good 6 mile run would help pump some of this off.
He finds his mind still very much on the powerful undead stalking the Dreadlands. They might be limited in range, but he still finds himself time and time again coming back to the conclusion that the Keepers should be taking them out. What he most certainly knows he does not want to do is visit with Dulcett and be asked to go run some errand or look into something
Edson Kazil - Shawn R; AC: 31(T 21, FF 20), CMD: 24 HP: -112/128 Tuesday May 5th, 2020 5:23:01 PM
Edson heads back to the manner with Lanliss and Tishe. There he spends the time cleaning and relaxing, waiting for this meeting. He does sneak away a drink every once in a while to help the day go by.
Home at Last! (DM Cayzle) Tuesday May 5th, 2020 11:54:52 PM
Tishe’ and Lord Hmitri set a meeting ina couple days. After farewells, Tishe’ gets busy with meeting prep and shopping. Edson keeps her company, though he does sneak off to a pub or two as needed.
Velarin puts some thought into spell maintenance and class upkeep.
Barratore goes for a run to let off steam. He is unwilling to let evil next door go unchallenged. Of course, the Dreadlands have been next door, and even more packed with evil, for a very very long time.
The meeting comes around, and the staff, with able assistance from the heroes, put on a very nice spread.
As expected, attending are Hmitri of the Hmanas (representing the east of the Valley); Dulcet the Witch (representing Witchspawn and the west); Thelonius of Jarlwolf, serving the Hill People of Wolf Hill; and of course Simmay Swanfeathers, for the south, for halflings, and for the council of druids.
Simmay brings her pet wolf with her, and he is very well behaved. Dulcet brings part of her coven, who evidently are quite protective. They get to eat in the kitchen, and honestly are less well behaved than the wolf!
The dinner conversation stays light ... Seers say Mount Glitterox is poised to erupt soon, which is always good for the Valley’s farms. There’s a lot of talk about the portal traffic from Effacia.
After dinner, the real meeting begins. Dulcet starts off by asking for a recap of your most recent adventures. “And please conclude with your estimation of the remaining dangers that may be threatening,” she says gently, prying information pertaining to the safety of those who live in the Valley.
“Also, what questions do you still have outstanding?”
Velarin Xilontheel(Chris J), AC 17(FF 14), hp 121/157, extended mage armor(24 hrs) Wednesday May 6th, 2020 8:20:09 AM
V will provide them with a recap of the battle for Effacia, listing the major combatants that were destroyed, as well as the ones we know that escaped. V will also advise them of the information that was learned regarding a change in some of the deities of the Wold. He will then recount their less than stellar encounter with the Draco Wraiths in the Dread.
"It seems like we have been gone a long time. What has occurred throughout the valley in our absence?"
(Dan K) AC: 38 (T 15 FF 34), CMD:43; HP: 165/246 Barratore Steelwind Wednesday May 6th, 2020 9:22:51 AM
Barratore returns from his run and is not in much of an improved mood. The group is not going to be heading into the Dreadlands and he doesn't have the resources to mount a solo campaign. He would simply leave if it were not for Edson. He told the man long ago that he would be with him to see this to the very end and so he would. An unfortunate tree on the route to the manor finds itself in the wrong place as Barratore sends his blade blasting into it with a roar. He doesn't acknowledge anyone who might have something to say and simply continues to the manor house
The fighter swings by the pantry, grabs a keg and heads to his room. Fortunately, once there, he gets distracted by the plans of the apprenticeship and trades school he has been working on and rather drinking the entire cask, he has but a few tankards and he mulls over and re-works the building designs.
With a sigh, Barratore comes down for the dinner party. He's changed out of his armor and has left all of his weapons in his room. Small talk not being on his mind, he says little save for direct 1-2 word answers to direct questions. Effacia and recent events surface at last and V handles the summary
Emrys Myrridanmyl, Stephen F. ac17 hp102/125. rituals: Warding, Spiritual Healing, Charming, Contingency: BoL. Bless, Spectral Hand Wednesday May 6th, 2020 11:18:26 AM
Emrys understands Barratore's anger and frustration. It never feels good retreating from a fight. The witch has his own ways of doing things and channeling his energy ... both negative and positive. He considers possible ideas about slaying these two undead creatures from a distance ... or forcing these creatures to a different location where they are powerless. 'Ahh, that is possible idea ... but expensive!' It can be done, he thinks.
He joins the rest at the dinner party. The conversation is pleasant, but it's hard not to think about various dark designs that involve the wyrmwraiths. With Dulcet's question about looming threats, Emrys can't help mention, "The Dreadlands continues to be a threat ... of course, it always has been as far as I can recollect."
AC 26/ T26/ F26 CMD24 (Fdom of Move) HP 128/164 Tishe’ (SteveK) Wednesday May 6th, 2020 12:29:43 PM
Tishe’ isn’t a good hostess, the dance of the party coordinator she had always left to her sisters. Instead, she nibbles and refreshes her glass, only wincing when a stormy Barratorre occupies one corner of the room. She listens to Velarin and Emrys and gives an inward sigh before speaking.
“That’s as good of an opening in the fabric that I’ve seen all night. ‘Of course, the Dreadlands have been, are, and will always be a problem.’ Why? Why do we have to accept that pattern as true?”
She waves a hand to dismiss the obvious. ”And I’m not spinning about two Wyrmwraiths that we were unprepared for. The Dread is gone, and Evil dissipates quickly, or so I always heard from those knowledgeable in Woldian Spirituality. That all these evils are still attracted the The Dread indicates that there is someone or something else there.”. And she stabs a finger on the map north of Cinnamon Valley.
She looks at Barratorre. “And that’s where I want to weave. Not the occasional wandering monster, but to find and cut the thread or seal off the source of evil that is still attracting things to the Dreadlands.” Then she looks at the Pitchfork Council. “So what threads does the Pitchfork Council have that can reinforce or unravel the thought-tapestry I’m weaving?”
Lanliss Drakeguard Michael A; AC: 26 (T 19, FF 18), CMD:31 HP:34/ (87)141 Wednesday May 6th, 2020 8:14:03 PM
Lanliss tells to Manolo about what happened. "Sometimes you have to choose to escape certain death, even heroes retreats at time, only to come back stronger and better prepared for what is head". Lanliss tells the boy regarding the encounter.
Lanliss and Manolo help Tishe to prepare the Manor..
Lanliss will be at the meeting
OOC: Perhaps Manolo as well.
The Council Meets (DM Cayzle) Thursday May 7th, 2020 7:09:58 AM
Velarin provides a recap of the Battle for Effacia as well as an update on what they have learned of the religious changes in the Wold, and their encounter with the Wyrmwraiths. He concludes with a question, “What has occurred throughout the Valley in our absence?”
Barratore finds the run unsatisfying. Even impromptu tree pruning prooves insufficient to alleviate his aggravation at being unable to confront the evil they encountered in the Dreadlands. A few tankards of ale and the opportunity to refocus on schooling plans provides some suscease to his inner turmoil. Once joining the dinner, he avoids all but necessary talking.
Emrys is similarly unable to stop considering what to do about the wyrms and other threats in the Dreadlands.
Lanliss introduces Manolo at the dinner, and the boy enthusiastically adds details to Velarin’s account. “There were skeletons and zombies and a magic storm! All the other kids had to come here to your country, but I hid and watched! No way was I going to miss the most exciting thing that ever happened in my town!”
Tishe’ awaits an opportune moment to join in the topic of what dangers the Dreadlands poses and speculates that there may be a deeper threat. She asks the Council for their perspective.
Edson nurses a drink and is content to listen.
Simmay speaks for the Council first. “Well, it is really as we said at dinner. The people from Effacia was the most excitement we’ve had. Honestly, with you good folks around, nobody is going to cause trouble for us!”
But Dulcet is not so sure. “There are a number of questions still outstanding, though. Where did the sahuagin army retreat to? Why did they attack in the first place? What was that structure underwater? Why have you met such powerful undead in the Dreadlands? Sir Barratore, your unease echoes my own uncertainty.”
Did you mention the merchant selling antique magic items? If so, Dulcet has questions about her as well.
She also says that, like Emrys, she has had odd difficulties casting divinations lately. OOC to Emrys: Highlight to display spoiler: {See April 18 DM post}
AC 26/ T26/ F26 CMD24 (Fdom of Move) HP 128/164 Tishe’ (SteveK) Thursday May 7th, 2020 8:36:50 AM
Tishe’ keeps quiet, both from waiting to see the reactions of her companions to her earlier thoughts, and her quicksilver attention suddenly remembering the odd unique magic seller. “Bottle shops in the desert..” she mumbles.
(Dan K) AC: 38 (T 15 FF 34), CMD:43; HP: 165/246 Barratore Steelwind Thursday May 7th, 2020 9:14:38 AM
Barratore hoists a tankard in cheers to Dulcet's last comment. Going over the Dreadlands encounter brings a thought to Barratore, but he puts it away for later. In front of others was not the time to bring up the Fate ring of Undead Controlling. He has no qualms about answering the questions.
"What's left of them fled back into the deep blue and we decided that exterminating them was not what we wished to do. They are not the problem,but a symptom. As to why in the first place, being hunted and exterminated pushed them to, in simple terms. In more complicated terms the heroes of Bonetown unintentionally created this. Ga'al has stepped in to fill the void they created and I suspect Marteus and Ga'al to be at the heart of many troubles across the Wold in the future."
"You say you have trouble casting divination spells? You need to elaborate on that, what kind of trouble and how long now? Before the cleaving of the gods of Testing or coinciding with?"
The fighter doesn't care or remotely see how the merchant could be attached to any of this, what, he was Alemi or Ffloy being all cryptic and nearly worthless in help? Didn't sound like what he knew of them. Things have been bugging him for a while now, well ever since the Time elemental really and the fighter was wondering if they all came back whole from that, or if a piece of them was captured or lost in the past. About the only thing he was certain on was he had no desire to go after the sahauguin. There were a litany of other 'maybe this would help' options and that's what put him in a sour mood. Nobody knew anything and that included Emrys, V and Tishe upon whom he very much relied on. More so than he knew until now.
Emrys Myrridanmyl, Stephen F. ac17 hp102/125. rituals: Warding, Spiritual Healing, Charming, Contingency: BoL. Bless, Spectral Hand Thursday May 7th, 2020 1:02:09 PM
To help answer Dulcet's questions, Emrys chimes in with what he was able to determine about the situation.
"I interrogated the corpse of the lead Sahuagian cleric after the battle. He had many curious things to say. He told me that they served a god named Billoopl, until he died. After which they sought another god to obey ... which turns out to possibly be Ga'al. He mentioned troop numbers and had no idea where the host of their army was being staged ... which may have been a lie. The Stone Altar, that Barratore and Edson found, was used to summon two Sea Bonzes. The name of the General that commanded the army is named Dalithan of the Black Hand. He appeared to escape with his life."
Emrys then sighs, and continues, "Then the corpse suddenly stopped speaking when I continued my questioning after that. Apparently I touched a nerve, because I felt a near impenetrable veil suddenly blocking my answers. My intuition tells me it will take a ritual casting, with as many witches as we can assemble, to pierce this veil!"
Edson Kazil - Shawn R; AC: 31(T 21, FF 20), CMD: 24 HP: -112/128 Thursday May 7th, 2020 2:35:45 PM
Edson continues nursing the drink and listening to the others lay out the story. Hes afraid Barratore is going to blow, and readies incase the minotaur needs to head outside and blow off some steam.
Lanliss Drakeguard Michael A; AC: 26 (T 19, FF 18), CMD:31 HP:34/ (87)141 Thursday May 7th, 2020 8:26:14 PM
Lanliss will let the others speak. He, himself, doesn't mention any weird shop as he didn't find it worthy to tell about...
The Council Meets (DM Cayzle) Friday May 8th, 2020 6:46:17 AM
Dulcet and Simmay have questions, but Lanliss, Tishe’, and Edson do not have much to say. Velarin, even more so.
That’s OK. Barratore and Emrys step up this time ...
"You say you have trouble casting divination spells?” asks Barratore, “You need to elaborate on that, what kind of trouble and how long now? Before the cleaving of the gods of Testing or coinciding with?"
Barratore also wonders if there are any lingering ramifications from the party’s interaction with the time elemental. Is there something funky going on in time?
The minotaur feels that nobody knows the real answers, and that troubles him.
Emrys offers many details, but does not reveal the questions that he would like answered.
Emrys adds, “My intuition tells me it will take a ritual casting, with as many witches as we can assemble, to pierce this veil!"
Dulcet ponders this and says that it could be done. She suggests waiting for the time of the eruption of Glitterox. “The magical ash in the air will help our magic!”
Simmay tells Barratore (a little shyly) that it is her practice to scry you heroes from time to time But lately, it is as if a veil had been drawn over her divination. That has been going on starting after the first preliminary fight in Effacia. And there was a blank spot for a portion of the mine adventure, likely when you were time hopping.
Dulcet thinks over the mass coven work, and says that her coven will do it. Maybe the heroes can recruit other covens.
Simmay says that her connection to Mother Wold leads her to predict the eruption for 20 to 25 days from now. Dulcet says she can get a crowd of covens to appear by then. She suggests the Circle Stones at Witchspawn. It is a place of power.
AC 26/ T26/ F26 CMD24 (Fdom of Move) HP 128/164 Tishe’ (SteveK) d20+20=33 ; d20+25=40 ; d20+15=19 ; Friday May 8th, 2020 8:54:00 AM
Tishe’ nods. “Emrys’ coven can join by then. And I well know the Stones; that was where the heroes of Sunrise Song first appeared.” She thinks more on arcana, and why divinations wouldn’t be working right.
Not thinking of any, she turns to the more likely scenario “could the disruption have anything to do with the changes happening in the pantheon of the Wold? If Marteus, Ga’al, or this Kevintar are involved, it could really alter mortal magic. And isn’t Marteus associated without undead? That would link the Dreadlands, the Sahaugin army, and the Teucri artifact together. What about that weird magic merchant? Did we buy anything from him that could be affecting divinations around us?”
Know Arcana. 33 Spellcraft. 40 Know Religion 19
Velarin Xilontheel(Chris J), AC 17(FF 14), hp 121/157, extended mage armor(24 hrs) Friday May 8th, 2020 3:52:44 PM
Velarin sits listening intently, but it is obvious he is not his normal self. he has nothing to say, and nothing to add. His friend Barratore took their flight from the Draco wraiths hard, Edson almost died. When is enough, enough. So much death. So many people suffering. All i i am good at is blowing crap up he thinks to himself.
I need to think. Things are not right. I need to talk with someone.....
V looks around the room and then lowers his head. He telepathically communicates to the keepers "My friends. I need to go."
V then teleports back to the entrance of the time elemental lair, and starts wandering his way through to speak with it.
Edson Kazil - Shawn R; AC: 31(T 21, FF 20), CMD: 24 HP: -112/128 Friday May 8th, 2020 6:54:13 PM
Edson goes to ask Velarin "Where", when all of a sudden hes gone. "Velarin... where did you go?"
Thw elf pretends he is listening to the conversation, when he is really listening for his friends reply.
Lanliss Drakeguard Michael A; AC: 26 (T 19, FF 18), CMD:31 HP:34/ (87)141 Friday May 8th, 2020 8:30:59 PM
Lanliss sits in place. Too many things happening occurring lately, The Wold is changing, Lanliss thinks. Some being of some sort is probably behind this , he speculates. 'Would Tecuri magic would be helpful now', Lanliss continues to ponder until someone speaks and interrupts his train of thoughts.
Velarin Xilontheel(Chris J), AC 17(FF 14), hp 121/157, extended mage armor(24 hrs) Saturday May 9th, 2020 8:29:36 AM
Responding to Edson, V telepathically communicates as he moves towards the time elemental guardian “I have a horrible feeling my friend. What were we doing right before all this happened? We were playing around with 2 want to be Gods that were indeed Gods in their little plane. Since we did that, the Gods have changed and the resulting upheaval has effected the entire Wold. Are we responsible for everything? Did we cause all the death... did we cause the Sahaguin to invade Effacia? Perhaps our powers have grown to the point that using them causes more harm than good. I need to know if what we did caused this.”
(Dan K) AC: 38 (T 15 FF 34), CMD:43; HP: 165/246 Barratore Steelwind Saturday May 9th, 2020 2:48:49 PM
Sounds to Barratore that the shake up across the pantheons times out very well. Knowing Tishe has a Detect Scry at all times, makes him a bit unhappy as well, seeing as some local witch has been scrying on them regularly and they never knew. Now they are being asked to play messenger and dash about looking for witch covens? No thanks. V excuses himself and Barratore telepathically agrees with him.
Good Luck. Rest assured the sahaguin attack was not from us. They are lost and lashing out and looks like Ga'al is happy to fill their void. I agree with your line of thinking and that we need to clean up the other would be god
Barratore has another drink
The Council Meets (DM Cayzle) Monday May 11th, 2020 7:44:36 AM
Ever the insightful one, Tishe’ adds depth to the conversation by musing on the possible causes of the recent turmoil ... Gods? Time travel? The Teucri? Powerful undead?
[OOC: Tishe’, for cleverness in thinking about a possible source of all the recent oddness, please accept a hero point.]
To Velarin, it is all too much -- and what’s worse, what if the party’s episode with time travel is what actually caused this mess of invasion and undead restlessness and gods in conflict? Seeking answers now, from an expert, he teleports to the Time Elemental. Of course, teleporting in proximity to the Temporal Temple is what sent the Keepers into the past ... so being no fool, Velarin teleports to the START of the complex and makes his way TO the Temple.
Now, an evil DM would surely consider that the area might have repopulated since the party was last there. Maybe there would be new challenges, new monsters. Surely, haring off on your own to an known site of danger is not always the wisest course? But your kindly DM’s evil ways are matched only by his sloth, so let us say that a few 8th level spells and a Disintegrate later, our somewhat scratched and bashed hero, Velarin, 274 gold pieces and a CL1 potion of Jump the richer, finds his way to the Time Elemental.
[OOC: Velarin, for bravery and quick action, please accept a hero point in addition to your newfound dungeon loot!]
Back at the meeting with the Pitchfork Council, Edson pretends to follow the conversation but in reality he is startled at Velarin’s sudden disappearance and telepathically calls for more explanation from his friend.
Reassuring his fellow Keepers, Velarin explains his thinking -- between random monster encounters that he does not even bother to mention.
Lanliss, like Velarin, senses that all is not right in the Wold. He too ponders what it might be that has caused all this. Clearly is is beyond known magic ... the Teucri hypothesis seems quite credible, doesn’t it?
Barratore, via his inner thoughts, agrees with Velarin and offers him moral support. The taur is in some small mental turmoil, it seems, both angry and perhaps resentful -- especially that Dulcet may have been spying on the group.
When you meet with the powerful folk who run Cinnamon Valley, especially one of them a witch almost as powerful and deeply more experienced than our Emrys, well, let us just say that Barratore, in his cups, is not a challenge for Dulcet to read.
“My dear, fear not. I have followed you through reports from my friends and associates, and those channels have remained open. I have also used divination to ask of certain Immortal Powers questions like, “Are the Keepers okay? Have they met with success?” and so on. I have not been spying. But it is the magical divinations that have been murky or failed in very recent days, and that has concerned me.”
“So let me make sure we are agreed. Shall we go forward with the idea of a witch gathering, a seance if you will, by sheer numbers to pierce the veil and answer our queries? I think the stone circle, at the next eruption of Glitterox, would be most fortuitous.”
AC 26/ T26/ F26 CMD24 (Fdom of Move) HP 128/164 Tishe’ (SteveK) Monday May 11th, 2020 9:21:43 AM
Tishe’ is startled by Velarin’s sudden departure, but is reassured by his continued telepathic contact. She thinks, ‘I was weaving all kinds of sun-baked picks on why you had to go Walker, Velarin. Don’t do that to a Packmate!’
The Spellweaver nods at Dulcet’s reassurance to Barratorre: Tishe’ also had no intention to do fetch-and-carry where the normal denizens of Cinnamon Valley could do the work themselves. “That’s right”, she says aloud, and then sheepishly grins. “I mean, the Keepers don’t want to do everything for the Valley; that breeds laziness and even a lack of free will. We want be the people who are called on only when all other efforts aren’t enough.” The woman considers her words. Are they too haughty or just a reminder that the Keepers aren’t the solution for everything. A decisive nod. The latter, she decides.
Velarin Xilontheel(Chris J), AC 17(FF 14), hp 157/157, extended mage armor(24 hrs) Monday May 11th, 2020 12:03:27 PM
"I'm sorry Tishe'. I've just got a really bad feeling, and I'm needing to know something. the more we sat and talked, the harder my mind struggled to figure out the answer. There is only one being being I know of who might know the answer and be willing to share that knowledge. I'm back to the mines to speak with the time elemental."
V works his way through the mines, thanks to the kindly DM who doesn't try and make his life more complicated.After nuking a few bad guys, and keeping his friends updated on the situation of things in the mine, he meets the elemental. "It has not been all that long. May I ask you a question that i need to know the answer to?"
While waiting for the response, it suddenly occurs to V, that perhaps the possibility of summoning a time elemental is possible. hmmm
Cayzle comments: Summoning a time elemental? Not a problem, but it appears +/- d100 rounds after/before you summon it.
:-)
Velarin Xilontheel(Chris J), AC 17(FF 14), hp 157/157, extended mage armor(24 hrs) Monday May 11th, 2020 3:29:28 PM
Hmm. Alrighty then.
Emrys Myrridanmyl, Stephen F. ac17 hp102/125. rituals: Warding, Spiritual Healing, Charming, Contingency: BoL. Bless, Spectral Hand Monday May 11th, 2020 5:10:36 PM
Emrys agrees with Dulcet and is most intrigued to give this mass seance a try ... especially on a night of the eruption of Glitterox.
Of course, the night where they themselves emerged from the cauldron of Glitterox, he thinks, everything that night had changed. The Magus and the Muse seamlessly exchanged threads in the weave of reality. What if it happened again ... would he know it? Who's to say? He ponders the idea of the Monster having his turn here... this Wold would be torn asunder ... and the Magus would inherit the crumbled remains of the other. This is what the Monster would want ... he thinks, maybe he's behind this ... then again, the Monster is too daft to perceive multidimensional paradigms such as this.
Edson Kazil - Shawn R; AC: 31(T 21, FF 20), CMD: 24 HP: -112/128 Monday May 11th, 2020 5:25:33 PM
Edson thinks about Velarin's words and begins biting at his nails while thinking this through. Time and alternate dimensions. This really was so much easier when he just needed to cut a purse to get enough coin for dinner.
He nods his head when Emrys agrees with Dulcet, but part of him thinks about adding the occult into the fray. Luckily he trusted the rest of the keepers, and knew they were the best at what they did..
Lanliss Drakeguard Michael A; AC: 26 (T 19, FF 18), CMD:31 HP:34/ (87)141 Monday May 11th, 2020 7:49:01 PM
Lanliss agrees as well with Dulcet.
The Council Meeting Concludes (DM Cayzle) Monday May 11th, 2020 11:26:40 PM
Tishe’ gently chides Velarin for startling his friends. Then she diplomatically reinforces the role that the Keepers play in the doings of the Valley.
Velarin communes with his friends and then asks the Time elemental if he can ask a question. It answers, “wwwwwwwwwweeeeeeeeeeeeellllllllllllll yyyyeeeeeesssssssssss.”
Barratore is quiet.
Emrys agrees with Dulcet on the particulars of the upcoming divination, but wonders if the portents will be too strong. What if the unexpected happens?
Edson also agrees to the seance, but fears that invoking such power will have ramifications.
Lanliss is on board too.
Dulcet is glad for the agreement, and lays out the details for the seance. Simmay says she will attend, but the other two reps on the council seem bored and beg off. The meeting concludes, and the council members offer their thanks for your service.
The date is three weeks off. Your actions until then?
Velarin Xilontheel(Chris J), AC 17(FF 14), hp 157/157, extended mage armor(24 hrs) Tuesday May 12th, 2020 9:27:42 AM
V is about to ask his question, when a puzzled look comes across his face. "Interesting. The fact you are still here, which was not something I had thought about until just now is very interesting. I now have multiple questions, but I will start with what I deem most significant. Are you aware of the upheaval and changes amongst the gods? Was what my friends and I have done in any way responsible for that?"
"If you are still in a talking mood...Why are you still here? what is your purpose or task here?
Velarin Xilontheel(Chris J), AC 17(FF 14), hp 157/157, extended mage armor(24 hrs) Tuesday May 12th, 2020 9:29:36 AM
(well played Cayzle. You have me most intrigued and impressed. Kudos to you good sir)
AC 26/ T26/ F26 CMD24 (Fdom of Move) HP 128/164 Tishe’ (SteveK) Tuesday May 12th, 2020 9:53:58 AM
Tishe’ is satisfied: the meeting was a success in her eyes.
The Spellweaver spends the first week between now and the seance weaving, practicing, meditating, and shopping at the Catacombs.
For the best two weeks, she travels the north border, East to West on the Cinnamon Valley side. She stops, helps, and talks to everyone she meets from hamlet to farmstead to hermit: helping out, sharing News and magic freely, and asking about the borders and any undead or evil incursions.
.....
Roll as many Know Local (+15) as necessary
Endure Elements Detect Scrying
Edson Kazil - Shawn R; AC: 31(T 21, FF 20), CMD: 24 HP: -112/128 Tuesday May 12th, 2020 5:15:37 PM
Edson is bored so he begins venturing around the cities. Anytime he sees a street urchin, he gives them a silver. " Come to me with any information you learn. I'll give you a copper. If its true, Ill give you a silver. Pass it along to your friends. "
If he sees older kids, he tells them to protect the younger street kids. He also tells them if one of the younger kids has any true local info, that he'll give the older kid a silver too.
Before leaving, he asks if there have been any other men or women reauesting the beggars to send up i information.
Basially trying to set up a network of info, and see if a thieves guild is working already.
(Dan K) AC: 38 (T 15 FF 34), CMD:43; HP: 165/246 Barratore Steelwind Tuesday May 12th, 2020 8:42:47 PM
Barratore finishes off the evening in front of the fire with his ale. The big witch to do was all well and good but the fighter wanted the Keepers to be leading and not following and it seemed much more of the latter than the former recently. He had little to do for the next few weeks and decided he was content with not having much to do
Lanliss Drakeguard Michael A; AC: 26 (T 19, FF 18), CMD:31 HP:34/ (87)141 Tuesday May 12th, 2020 9:49:00 PM
Lanliss starts to teach Manolo the basics of combat and fitness and makes him do speed drills. "You need to be prepared and be instructed in the fundamentals first", he tells Manolo.
He also tells him about meeting barratore and Emrys in a deep cave full of ants , the rest of the original all gone on different ways.
Ooc: I will have to check if Edson was part of the original group as I truly don't remember....
Velarin Xilontheel(Chris J), AC 17(FF 14), hp 157/157, extended mage armor(24 hrs) Wednesday May 13th, 2020 7:45:07 AM
V continues to make a list of the scrolls he wishes to create. (Sorry all. Not much today. Just found out I get the joy of putting down my daughters cat while she is out of the country.)
Emrys Myrridanmyl, Stephen F. ac17 hp102/125. rituals: Warding, Spiritual Healing, Charming, Contingency: BoL. Bless, Spectral Hand Wednesday May 13th, 2020 12:56:49 PM
With three weeks to go until the big ritual, Emry makes preparations with his coven. There is one task he was planning to do that he wasn't going to advertise to the rest of the world. A horse drawn wagon pulls up the manor house, driven my Angus. Emrys inspects the cargo ... a long wooden box. Inside the box, the preserved remains of the Sahuagian cleric. The body had been cleaned up and was now dressed in a linen shroud. Several runes are carefully written across his body. Satisfied with the condition, he closes the lid and turns to Angus. "Very good! Make your way to Culverwood, at the meeting place. I will join you there and we will continue on from there."
Several coven members load up into the wagon with Angus before taking off down the road. He thinks it should take a day to get to Culverheart ... then from there to the meeting place. He has a little time to take care of other matters ... like the Catacombs.
Time and the Valley (DM Cayzle) Wednesday May 13th, 2020 10:13:17 PM
Velarin continues to chat with the Time Elemental. “WWwwwweeeellll, IIIIII aaammmmaaallllllllwwwwaaaayyysssss hheeerrrrrree. Iiiiiiiiinnnnnnnn aaaaallllllll ttiiiiiiiiiiiimmmmmmmee.” After enduring long conversation with the creature, Velarin gets the gist -- that all things change, even gods, now as in the past, as in the future. And the party’s small loop in time -- which is now sealed -- did not drive any great changes.
Tishe’ is pleased with the meeting and spends the time until the seance, attending to personal business and connecting with the common folk, with a keen eye on evil undead threats. She has a friendly, pleasant demeanor, and people are pleased that a mighty adventurer is interested in hearing the peoples’ concerns. But the thing is, actually, that there are really very few of these. Over the years, a frankly amazing number of hero groups have called this valley home, and that means something. There are no threats to the Cinnamon Valley, and the place is as prosperous and thriving as anyplace in the Wold. No external threats are left, and potential threats know better. As for the undead of the Dread, the mindless undead are all gone, and the mindful undead -- even them -- know better than to enter the Valley. It would not surprise Tishe’ to hear that the smart undead, the vampires and such, have sought less dangerous places to dwell.
Edson also spends the time connecting, but with a different focus, attempting to develop an intelligence network. He cleverly leverages the local urchins, and gets in touch with the Cinnamon Valley’s Thieves’ Guild. The local guildmaster is both pleased and extremely nervous to invite Edson to a personal meeting. He’s worried that his minions may have done something, and he is very apologetic and willing to answer all questions.
“Just tell me who, or give me a description, and I’ll have the rogue right up here for your custody,” he says.
The fellow, a human named Hmartin, relaxes a bit when he learns that this is a “social call” and not “official business.” Edson gets the strong idea that the Guild here is focused on staying away from innocents and common folk, stealing from the more wealthy, especially those who can afford it, especially the ones who are pompous or who abuse their position. They do a good business as bounty hunters, and they have a crew armed with wands of Detect Evil who steal from travellers passing through who do not “Pass Muster.”
Why are the thieves here such “goody-goodies”? Well, if you lived in a place with so many hero groups for such a long time, you would be doing your best not to become the “villains” in their stories, too!
Anyway, Guildmaster Hmartin is happy to keep Edson in the loop. Edson, what do you do, if anything, to help build loyalty and good will with these “honest rogues”?
Barratore would rather be driving the wagon rather than riding it and decides to spend the intervening time being idle. But just a day or two in, he is greeted by a fellow in armor prominently wearing a pin with three tines on it. Of course, Barratore knows what this means -- he is being approached by an officer of the WLA.
“Hail and well met, Hero of the League,” he declares, bowing. “Sir Barratore, if I may impose on you, I am Tomaz Tomazi of Plateau City. And on behalf of the WLA, I have a request.” It seems that word has gotten around regarding the Keepers’ latest adventures, and the WLA rep is inviting Barratore to the mother chapterhouse, to share his experience and perhaps train some of the most promising members. A day if the taur is busy, or as long as you can spare. “There’s a rumor,” says Tomaz, “that Lars Tokasis himself may put in an appearance!”
Lanliss, meanwhile, takes the opportunity to focus on the training of his new apprentice. Manolo exclaims incessantly about the speed drills, but throws himself with wild abandon into any form of combat training. At one point, Lanliss overhears the boy describing in vivid detail Manolo’s personal victory of a wide variety of deadly foes while flailing away at the pell. Lanliss, what class do you wish to give the boy? With your experience, you could easily grant him level 1 in rogue, fighter, or ranger. Manolo is happy to follow your advice.
Emrys uses the time to work on a plan of his own. With his coven he makes preparations with the defeated Sahaugin’s corpse. A great sacrifice to the Culverwood would have meaning and import, he thinks, and is perfectly achievable. The Culverwood itself is just south of the Valley, so entering the magical wood is not a problem. And as a Forest Walker, Emrys will have no problem finding his way -- and then departing -- the forest. But what is his intention with this ceremony? Is it related to the upcoming seance? Or some other goal? Or is it purely a gift and sacrifice, and the Culverwood will grow as it will ...
Velarin Xilontheel(Chris J), AC 17(FF 14), hp 157/157, extended mage armor(24 hrs) Thursday May 14th, 2020 9:51:19 AM
Pleased that it appears the group is not responsible for the upheaval of the Wold, V asks the time elemental one more question. "Do you know what Maegos has been doing?"
(Dan K) AC: 38 (T 15 FF 34), CMD:43; HP: 165/246 Barratore Steelwind Thursday May 14th, 2020 11:15:27 AM
Barratore is lounging in the sun, upon a reclined chair of his own design with a keg of ale on one side and his blade planted a few feet into the ground on his other. He stands and extends a greeting and his hand in return. "No imposition at all Officer Tomaz." Barratore hears out the man and though he is terribly dubious that a half elf could possibly live so long that Lars could be there, the Wold was a odd place when it came to such things and so he shrugs that thought away. It had been years since he was at the first chapter house and nothing was going to be happening for a few weeks at least and so why not.
Telepathically he lets the others know he will be in Plateau City for a couple weeks and verbally informs the officer that he will spare as much time as he can. Within the hour, Barratore is set and off
AC 26/ T26/ F26 CMD24 (Fdom of Move) HP 128/164 Tishe’ (SteveK) Thursday May 14th, 2020 12:29:48 PM
Tishe’ just enjoys her time being with people who don’t really need her help: this was the reason to adventure in the first place! She hadn’t thought about intelligent vs unintelligent vs mindless undead until that night around a farmer’s hearth listening to a granther talk of times gone by. And that matches the Keepers recent experiences too. No skeletons or zombies or that type of restless dead. No liches or vampires. More of the stronger undead who are crafty enough to usually avoid detection. “Seems to me the land is in fact slowly healing; just that the effects were not what was expected.”
She makes sure to telepathically mention that to the others. ‘And I don’t have to wait to weave the story and get shuttlecocked and forget. Not with our telepathy!’ That makes Tishe’ particularly happy!
Edson Kazil - Shawn R; AC: 31(T 21, FF 20), CMD: 24 HP: -112/128 Thursday May 14th, 2020 7:22:50 PM
Edson laughs. " No, none of your bothered with me or my friends. I personally would like to work out some arrangement, for your crew to get me info. I don't know how well you;re connected outside the city, but if there are other sister guilds, info would be desired from them too. :
"I offered the street kids copper, and silver.. but someone of your stature would require better coins. Obviously better information will gain better coins, but as a statement of our new friendship, a 25 thousand donation to the guild.... for training and restocking your supplies.
I also should mention, as some of your spotters probably warned you... I am a standing member of the Keepers of the Vale. I can make sure that no one comes to bother you, as your targets are not the poor and needy, but those who can actually handle the loss. There is no reason for my friends to come here and interfere with your business.
Lanliss Drakeguard Michael A; AC: 26 (T 19, FF 18), CMD:31 HP:34/ (87)141 Thursday May 14th, 2020 8:46:22 PM
Lanliss is quite at the boy's progress, he might go far, he is eager to do a lot and already dreams about the adventures he will have
As Manolo looks up to him, Lanliss thinks, What would be of the boy ?
He remembers the unrealistic dream of him becoming a magic user just like Emrys or perhaps Valerin. 'It is not possible for me to be like them or like him', He understands.
Manolo looks at him, Lanliss was day dreaming for a few second. "So Manolo, what kind of hero do you want to be ?"
"As we saw today being fast on the battlefield will give you access to unbelievable feats" "And having endurance will make you able to swing a heavy battle axe or a magnificent heavy swords for a longer duration during battle without giving in to the enemies efforts to exhaust you at times "
"I can show you some parts of your way and you got potential, but you need to focus on your soul on your being"
Lanliss touchs Manolo Heart/Chest, "What kind of hero do you wish to be?" "For now you will have to focus one some specific things, and later you might be able to combine some of the things you learn to make yourself a unique hero !"
"Would you want to be as strong as Barratore, so strong, that only few monsters can be standing after being struck sheer strength and fortitude. "I warn you, you will have to surpass you limits and break them, you will bleed a lot and be thrown to the battle if not charge straight into it "
"Do you want to be like me or Edson, being so fast and sometimes stealthy, that few things will be able to stop you from escaping death himself. "I do warn you, the path you take will be at times an infamous/inglorious one, being hidden at times away from the light"
"Or perhaps ", Lanliss thinks about his mom the druid for a second. "You can be one with nature, having a blessing of some sort, in a combination of the natural physical world and the spirit of nature itself, in a way, you can be like Emrys..... casting spells of great power but still be able to fight with your sheer nature force of the will to live against abomination that strive to destroy the nature of the Wold" "I warn you, that nature will want,no , will need your attention and efforts, to be able to survive wherever you are and call a holy war against nature's enemies. .... "This is the ways I can show you", "it is a most important decision to make young man".
Optional 1- IF the boy has troubles to choose. Lanliss pats the boy head, "Go to sleep and ask for a tiny bit help to choose...from your grandfather", Lanliss says.
OOC: My sincere apologies for any bad wording and/or lack of correct grammar/punctuations (: OOC2 : Covering my eyes & ears....I DON'T TO CHOOSE ! >.< (:
Velarin Xilontheel(Chris J), AC 17(FF 14), hp 157/157, extended mage armor(24 hrs) Friday May 15th, 2020 12:51:06 PM
While waiting for the elemental's timely response, V, informs the others of what he said, and agrees with Tishe' that the Wold seems to be changing.
"Perhaps Tishe', the Wold was what it always was, and it's simply a matter of perspective. 5 years ago, nobody would have ever asked us to go check out something happening in Effacia. They would have sent word to others who were more capable of handling it. And really, it's not likely we would have decided to wander the dreadlands at that time either. Perhaps what you are capable of doing determines that which you end up seeing and experiencing. As a final thought on that, I'm with Barratore on the Draco Wraiths. Once we've had some time to recover and prepare, they need to be eliminated. They are to dangerous to be allowed to continue."
Time and the Valley (DM Cayzle) Friday May 15th, 2020 1:29:22 PM
Velarin relieved by the elemental’s answer, asks about Maegos. The Time Elemental pauses to think about it. An hour later, it says, “Ssssssuuuullllllllllkkiiiiiiinnnnggggg.” It says no more on the subject.
Barratore informs the others and quickly follows Officer Tomaz to the Plateau City chapter house. With the fellow’s Boots of Teleportation, and with no error blipping into the chapterhouse’s recieving circle, it is closer than the outhouse round back.
Now, most WLA chapterhouses are just taverns or inns that serve dual functions, or else small buildings devoted to training, mostly in combat arts. You fight in the yard out back; you study in a small room with a few shelves. But the First Chapterhouse, in Plateau City, on the other hand, is something else. It is not luxurious, not fancy, but there are several functional touches that reveal money spent. The teleportal circle is one. The Continual Flames providing light everywhere is another. The smokeless kitchens are fueled with daily castings of Rose’s Temperature Control. The demonstration arena where the audience is shielded by permanent Walls of Force. The house is big, with several libraries; sparring facilities; a pool in the basement for training swimming, toughness, and endurance; a summoning circle for calling outsiders; a generic chapel to all the Gods of the Wold, the small but fertile garden out back, and, no doubt, secrets that members’ dues have made possible for the training of mysterious arts.
Of course, the symbol of the WLA in Old High Woldian is everywhere. Also, you see the ancient motif in decor here and there: The faces of Fighter, Cleric, Thief, and Magic-User.
Barratore is first welcomed with a private interview. The leader of the First Chapterhouse turns out to be a gnome with a lyre and orange hair. He invites you to sit in a taur-sized chair.
Roll any Knowledge check please, your best one, to make a DC10 check: Highlight to display spoiler: {This is Ballatime Brooks, a retired member of the Shining Dragons. He is a bard, and it is said he retired after seeing the horrors of Koshe Marr. An eccentric, they say, but also a Hero of the WLA.}
The gnome stands and greets you by name. “Welcome Barratore. It is a true pleasure to meet you at last. I’ve travelled to Minotaur Island, you know. Excellent plum pudding, well worth the teleport.”
You exchange pleasantries. Feel free to ask questions -- Brooks does not stand on ceremony. He is definitely a font of facts, some of which relate to the topic at hand. He seems fairly well informed of your public doings -- you guess that the chapterhouse in Jarlswolf has been making reports. Eventually, the talk turns to business, and he asks about the Keepers of the Vale, their latest adventure, and especially plans for the future. What do you say? What do you hold back?
“You folks really made waves in Effacia,” he chuckles.
Back at the manor, Lanliss puts some serious work into training Manolo. He gives the lad a choice, and talks about the options. But there really is no question, in the end. “I want to be like you, Master Lanliss,” he says. “Fast and sneaky and everything!” [OOC: Feel free to work with me in email to create an NPC sheet for the boy, if you like.]
Meanswhile, Tishe’ and Velarin enjoy the telepathy tattoos and keep in touch. They discuss how the Wold has changed ... or is it the heroes who have changed? Can it be both?
The meeting between Hmartin and Edson goes very well. Edson makes a sizable donation. [OOC: Please track that 25K expense as a permanent expenditure that counts against your WBL. You have, in essence, purchased a “summons” and “divination” “device”!]
Hmartin is clearly very pleased with the donation but even more so with the implied umbrella status that Edson is suggesting. “Having powerful friends means everything in our business. We will make this a very productive partnership.”
Edson, if you make a sense motive check vs DC20, then Highlight to display spoiler: {He is glad, but hopes you will not be too much of a micromanager.}
If you also make a sense motive check vs DC30 this time, then Highlight to display spoiler: {You also get the idea he is already thinking of ways to turn this situation into a profitable one.}
“Well, Mister Kazil, you’ve got yourself a deal!” He holds out his hand to Edson.
Emrys continues to prepare for his ceremony.
AC 26/ T26/ F26 CMD24 (Fdom of Move) HP 128/164 Tishe’ (SteveK) Friday May 15th, 2020 3:49:16 PM
Tishe’ continues on her way, slowly travelling towards the Stones on the north border.
(Dan K) AC: 38 (T 15 FF 34), CMD:43; HP: 165/246 Barratore Steelwind d20+21=29 ; Friday May 15th, 2020 5:08:54 PM
Barratore takes in the Chapter House and is happy for the tour. It was very much like what he envisioned that he and Brom would build in Rum. Alas, that was not to be. Those dreams had fallen long ago, with most of Rum itself. The fighter's badge of Hero level WLA prominently appears on his left breast, just above the medallion from Effacia and he stops to watch a sparring or two and nods to himself at the touch of a pool. He liked that idea and would be adding that to the plans he had for the area about Jarlsford. The fighter was mentally tossing around a 4-6 mile terrain course, with various obstacles and challenges along the way. Ah, he put it aside and returned his focus to his present.
Barratore puts on a toothy grin and returns the greeting, "An pleasure to be invited Master Ballatime." Barratore then takes a seat. Pleasantries are not his strong suit, but Barratore muddles through all the same. The whole point, to Barratore, of checking in with Chapter Houses was to keep everyone informed and so the fact that Ballatime is, doesn't much register.
"What have I been up to that you don't already know about?" he begins in question, "We learned that Effacia was under siege from sahaguin and journeyed there to assist." Barratore will then proceed to provide a brief recap of the battle and the discoveries after. specifically the heartseeding book and apparent altar to Ga'al. He includes the discovery of the rings of Fate and that The Keepers would be safe guarding them for the foreseeable future.
Barratore then has a few questions of his own, about the Dreadlands and what legends might say about being able to heal the land. The Dreadlord and his liches have been destroyed now for decades, yet the land is still completely foul and full of death.
And the dragon that was seen back during the Crystal infestation and the Sarr. When the group erupted from Glitterox, 100's of eye witnesses reported seeing a great dragon as well, fly to the north.
He also wants to know what experiences Ballatime might have had with The Teucri? From here Barratoer will go into detail about the groups encounter with Meagos and the woman, whose name Barratore cannot remember. A pair of immortals, for all intent and purpose, within their own dimensions of power accessible only deep within a mine near the valley and only then through a Teucri device. The party destroyed one and the other pledged to never interfere with the Living Wold, but Barratore still has doubts about that.
Know History 29
Emrys Myrridanmyl, Stephen F. ac17 hp102/125. rituals: Warding, Spiritual Healing, Charming, Contingency: BoL. Bless, Spectral Hand Friday May 15th, 2020 6:24:44 PM
(OOC: Sorry for not posting last night ... busy work day finished me off.)
Emrys continues his preparations for both ceremonies .. one in Culverwood and the other at the Standing Stones with Dulcet and a small Army of talented witches. In a moment of meditation, he invokes name of his patron, the Great Culverwood, and gives thanks for their many gifts that have been bestowed upon him.
"Many countless thanks for your patronage, Great Culverwood, your roots are vast and their reach is as wide as the Living Wold. I bring to you a gift ... a being of great power I offer you. I sense the veil that clouds our view ... maybe this creature can offer a ray of light that will pierce the darkness and reveal what hides in shadows."
Emrys then sends a message to Velarin directly and offers an invitation.
To Velarin he says, "A mutual acquaintance of ours will soon be dedicated to Culverwood ... a particular sahauginian cleric that you're rather fond of, as I recall. He's on his way to Culverwood now ... would you like to accompany me to Culverwood and be a witness to this offering. Then teleport back to the manor house and we'll go there together."
Lanliss Drakeguard Michael A; AC: 26 (T 19, FF 18), CMD:31 HP:34/ (87)141 Friday May 15th, 2020 7:16:32 PM
"That would be a worthy goal", Lanliss replies to Manolo's answer. Telepathically. he relies. "Manolo is going to by my apprentice and is going to walk a similar path like me and Edson". He looks at Manolo "We did some physical drills...now it is time for some less physically demanding drills " Lanliss teaches Manolo the start of (intro of sort) disabling traps or at least a few principles of it.
Time and the Valley (DM Cayzle) Saturday May 16th, 2020 11:30:51 AM
Barratore is glad to see the First Chapterhouse of the WLA, but a bit regretful, thinking about might-have-beens.
The minotaur warrior has a wide-ranging conversation with the gnomic bard as they discuss events of which they have heard as well as those they have witnessed at first hand. Speaking of Ga’al, the gnome is worried. Marteus has been dealt a heavy blow: his long-ago brother back from antiquity, his pantheon dissolved, Wardd ascended, Serenbeth returned from death, and so on. Into this chaos and power vacuum, Ga’al may make a move, Ballatime worries, but if so, he is glad that the watery menace at Effacia was defeated. If Ga’al’s hand was behind that, then the Keeper’s not only saved a town but thwarted a Power. On the other hand, is Marteus going to take this lying down?
Closer to Barratore’s areas of interest, Ballatime is less worried. “The relics and ancients of the First and Second Ages ever rise from the muck to trouble us,” he says, “but being dealt with, they tend to sink back again. The Teucri are a strange case. Even after the death of the race, their works amaze and befuddle. But you seem to have resolved that issue very well.”
As for the Dreadlands, the gnome is even more optimistic. “I recall when armies of undead came forth to conquer. Even more recently, the Sons of Dread emerged, first in the Dreadlands, then after a defeat, moving to Mount Bone near Dirt City. There too they were defeated. The liches are gone. All that remains are the ghosts of evil. Still very dangerous, of course, but only a shadow of the past. Heroes such as yourself will continue to prevail. Did you not say that miners are living in the north of the Dread? Noble races will move in and start to take that evil land.”
“We have talked a while, now, and I understand there is a ceremony still ahead.” He smiles and offers you refreshments. “Any other issues we should discuss?” After you converse, there is a banquet to come this evening.
Lanliss begins to teach his ward the fundamentals of trapfinding and other rogueish arts. The boy is amazingly eager and clever in picking up what Lanliss teaches him. [OOC: Manolo is now a first level rogue! Feel free to consider his skills, feats (he gets two, one for being a human), and whatever gear you want him to have. You can just buy nonmagical gear locally, deduct the few coins from your sheet. If you want to gift him with magic items, please go shop in the Catacombs.]
Tishe’ enjoys her perambulation across the Cinnamon Valley, even catching a glimpse of a candy cane hundreds of feet tall, making her way home, and then visiting the Catacombs. [OOC: Purchases approved. Please, other shoppers, do the same! Looking at players sitting on over 50K cash reserves, you know who you are!]
[BTW, Tishe’ if you are curious about the giant candy cane, your PC knows that it is the Tower of Boydos. The appearance of the thing changes as the sleeping Power within dreams. Sweet sweet dreams, at the present, it would seem.]
Emrys prepares for his sacred sacrifice and invites Velarin to attend the ceremony.
AC 26/ T26/ F26 CMD24 (Fdom of Move) HP 128/164 Tishe’ (SteveK) Saturday May 16th, 2020 4:21:24 PM
Tishe’ did in fact know nothing about the Tower of Bydos, but her inquisitive mind gets the answers from the locals. “That’s one warped up Tower!”
It’s nice to have spares in the magical arena. Tishe’ was very conscious that she was perilously close to running out of spells in the defense of Effacia. She thinks to the other Keepers, ‘ I purchased a couple wands and a couple dozen scrolls so that won’t happen again! And for pesky spells targeted at me, my big purchase was a Rod of Absorption. Defense and offense both!’
Velarin Xilontheel(Chris J), AC 17(FF 14), hp 157/157, extended mage armor(24 hrs) Monday May 18th, 2020 8:26:44 AM
V thanks the time elemental, and begins working his way back out of the mines, so that he is a safe distance from the elementals lair and the unstable teleportation area before preparing to teleport home.
On his way out, he receives Emrys' communication and responds. "On the way Emrys. I wonder if it's considered sacrilege to bury a Sahaguin in a forest? Something to keep in mind when deciding what to do with the body of a very powerful cleric. Either way, I will meet you at the manor house."
" I knew you would be a man of reason. Rogues always are. "
Heading back to the manor house to meet back with the others and relax a bit.
(Dan K) AC: 38 (T 15 FF 34), CMD:43; HP: 165/246 Barratore Steelwind Monday May 18th, 2020 10:33:18 AM
The conversation with Ballatime helps the general fixated minotaur with what he's been stuck on quite a bit. A different perspective from one a bit more removed and with equal insight and experience was a good remedy for the minotaur. The telepathic pass from V on going back after the Wraith Dragons was still something he wanted to do. The group knew basically where the things were after all. He wouldn't push and let the others come up with the next to do. Besides the witches might do something awful and bring the wrath of the gods upon them and that will take priority to fix.
On the Marteus subject, Barratore is of a slightly differing opinion. He does not think Marteus has been dealt a blow, but like Ga'al, is now more dangerous as they are both unfettered and focused. Continuing the subject of the gods, Barratore brings up the trouble Emrys and others have been experiencing with divination magic. The fighter wonders aloud to Ballatime whether or not the effect is wide spread, or localized to the Keepers themselves.
The Invite also mentioned looking in on some of training, and Barratore has the time over the next week and the inclination to provide a masters class or two on blades, bows and defence. The fighter points out defence a great deal. "The worst way to stop an enemy attack is with your face."
Lanliss Drakeguard Michael A; AC: 26 (T 19, FF 18), CMD:31 HP:34/ (87)141 Monday May 18th, 2020 6:16:09 PM
Lanliss goes to the catacombs to buy some stuff for Manolo and possible some things for himself...
OOC: Will send some ideas and questions to the DM tomorrow (:
Time and the Valley (DM Cayzle) Monday May 18th, 2020 11:48:55 PM
Emrys and Velarin arrive at a sacred grove of ancient trees deep in the Culverwood. In a small clearing that just feels right to the bloodwitch, Emrys offers his sacrifice and speaks his devotionals. From deep in the earth, roots slowly grow up. Around and around the corpse, and soon they obscure the body entirely.
You may choose to wait for a while, but that is all. The forest grows as it will, as they say here. You do notice a huge man, knurled like an old oak, but hale, wearing a long dark cloak, the color of forest shadows. Has he been there the whole time? If Emrys does not take the flower, the man gestures for him to do so. He bows, and steps back into the shadows.
Emrys and Velarin. Knowledge Local or Nature or Religion DC25: Highlight to display spoiler: {Surely this is the Greenmage of the Culverwood, Grynntymm Deeproot!}
Barratore spends a couple of productive weeks in training. Perhaps he recalls when he was inexperienced and raw -- how far he has travelled on the path of his career to hero-dom! He has several more dinners with the leaders and officers of the WLA, and they reminisce about some of the major events of the Wold, like the bloodgrass invasion that shook the Wold in days past. Then too, strange things happened with magic in the Wold. Perhaps this is such a time. There is much talk of the Iron Dragons and their quest to free Kevintar, resulting in epic divine changes in the Wold. At the end of the stay, Ballatime warmly shakes Barratore’s hand. He’s sorry Lars did not show up after all. “The founder is ever elusive,” he notes, as he wishes the minotaur well.
Tishe’ visits the Catacombs, where she may have met Lanliss. She is shopping for backup casting; he is shopping for gear for his ward.
Later, both of them meet up with Edson at the Manor House.
Tomorrow, Barratore, Velarin, and Emrys also return home. And the day after that, the seance at the standing stones.
Velarin Xilontheel(Chris J), AC 17(FF 14), hp 157/157, extended mage armor(24 hrs) d20+27=29 ; Tuesday May 19th, 2020 5:51:40 AM
V stands by Emrys' and watches as the roots engulf the deceased cleric, not sure exactly what is going to come of this besides fertilizing the forest, until the flower appears.
"Interesting"
And then V notices the huge man
"Emrys, I would have to guess that that is the Greenmage of the Culverwood, Grynntymm Deeproot. It appears the flower is for you."
V waits until Emrys has done what he wishes to do, and claimed the flower and asks "Is all this normal? Have you done such things before? What is the flower?"
Time and the Valley (DM Cayzle) Tuesday May 19th, 2020 8:14:54 AM
OOC: Fixed flower link, sorry!
(Dan K) AC: 38 (T 15 FF 34), CMD:43; HP: 165/246 Barratore Steelwind Tuesday May 19th, 2020 9:22:26 AM
Barratore enjoys the couple of weeks at the main WLA house. Seeing the aspiring adventurers, and telling old stories over drinks were days well spent. On his way home, Barratore stops in on the Catacombs to add a couple enchantments to his armor and shield.
He relays his conversations with Ballatime with the rest of the group. The Dreadlands, Effacia and most notably the conversations around Ga'al, Marteus and the return of Kevintar. The last was opposed to his brother Marteus and could the divination magic trouble be related to that? Barratore's thought is that divination magic is NOT the problem. Ballatime never mentioned it. The WLA never mentioned it. If divination magic was being blocked over the last few months, across the Wold, the fighter thinks that it would have come up.
"That means a more local problem and perhaps the problem was local to The Keepers, us. We are being masked. Possibly by Kevintar to prevent Marteus or Ga'al or both from finding us and bringing all kids of unpleasantness upon us and ours. Have we tried or asked others to point divination magic somewhere else? Do we want to have the collected witches try and break what could be a blanket of protection?"
Emrys Myrridanmyl, Stephen F. ac17 hp102/125. rituals: Warding, Spiritual Healing, Charming, Contingency: BoL. Bless, Spectral Hand Tuesday May 19th, 2020 11:54:55 AM
(OOC: Sorry for not posting again. Rough day at the home office. Afterwards my hour long nap turned into 12 hour slumber!)
Emrys is pleased when Velarin arrives back at the Manor House.
"I was assuming you'd like to be there for this clerics finally resting place ... and tribute to Culverwood. We can travel to Culverheart in a moment. Angus and my coven are traveling there with the cleric's remains. After dinner and a night's rest, we can travel deeper into Culverwood, where the ceremony will take place. I will need to lead the way ... others would become lost in the woods."
Emrys waits until Velarin is prepared and ready before he casts Word of Recall. They instantly teleport to Culverheart ... Emrys' ancestral home and that of his father Archdruid Myrridan the Wild.
(As per the blood witch Coven II rules, Emrys can have a 2nd sanctuary location, important to him and his coven with Word of Recall.)
Edson Kazil - Shawn R; AC: 31(T 21, FF 20), CMD: 24 HP: -112/128 Tuesday May 19th, 2020 7:46:03 PM
Edson greets the others as they come back, and lets them in on the relations he has made since they last saw.
Time and the Valley (DM Cayzle) Tuesday May 19th, 2020 8:57:23 PM
OOC: The DM Post yesterday covered Emrys and Velarin's trip to the Culverheart, the grove I mentioned yesterday. The sacrifice is done, and the two friends may now return to the Manor.
Time and the Valley (DM Cayzle) Wednesday May 20th, 2020 12:26:20 AM
Velarin and Emrys chat in the aftermath of the sacred grove ceremony. Velarin wonders if this kind of thing is “normal” in the Culverwood. But the truth is, a strong strain of chaos runs through this magical forest, and just about anything can be normal or unusual! And so they return to the Manor just in time for the seance tonight.
Barratore wonders if the divination veil is local or related to the Keepers in particular. That’s a clever question -- one worth exploring at the seance!
Edson shares his recent experiences with the “gentlemen rogues” with whom he has struck up a partnership.
Lanliss concludes his shopping (we’ll say that whatever gets delivered arrives now, regardless of actual date).
Next Post: The seance at the standing stones. But who are you bringing? Coven members? Manolo? Any special preparations?
AC 26/ T26/ F26 CMD24 (Fdom of Move) HP 128/164 Tishe’ (SteveK) Wednesday May 20th, 2020 6:00:10 AM
Tishe’ takes in Barratorre’s news from the WLA and thinks. ‘That is great deduction, Sieur Barratorre, and an angle I never considered: what if it is the Keepers that everyone else is having the wool pulled over their eyes? Or perhaps Crescent Valley?’ She shakes her Head and returns to present matters: there’s nothing she can do about it right now.
And unexpectedly she laughs aloud. Shaking her head again, she smiles to tell whoever is around her that it is nothing and she is fine. Tishe’ never thought that she would ever become philosophical enough to not worry about a situation when learning about it: she must be growing up!
AC 26/ T26/ F26 CMD24 (Fdom of Move) HP 128/164 Tishe’ (SteveK) Wednesday May 20th, 2020 6:04:27 AM
Tishe’ makes no special preparations other than what she normally does for a trip. She has her adventuring gear about her, including her new Rod which she keeps in her hand, and her three wands she keeps in a scabbard like daggers. All her other gear is convenient in her Pants O Plenty or worn. She casts her usual spells of Endure Elements and Detect Scry, and she’s on her way to the seance.
Velarin Xilontheel(Chris J), AC 17(FF 14), hp 157/157, extended mage armor(24 hrs) Wednesday May 20th, 2020 8:24:38 AM
Right before the seance, V will cast protection from evil and fly.
"This should be interesting. Hopefully with Dulcett and Emrys leading it, it will not go awry."
Contingency: Break enchantment activated when affected by mind or body control spells Bless(permanent)
Emrys Myrridanmyl, Stephen F. ac17 hp102/125. rituals: Warding, Spiritual Healing, Charming, Contingency: BoL. Bless, Spectral Hand Wednesday May 20th, 2020 11:55:21 AM
(OOC: Cayzle - Sorry I didn't notice your Culverwood post, work has been extra busy and very draining.)
Cayzle Comments: Hey, no prob! Been there myself!
Edson Kazil - Shawn R; AC: 31(T 21, FF 20), CMD: 24 HP: -112/128 Wednesday May 20th, 2020 5:27:17 PM
Edson has no special plans, just preps for the usual. Knowing the keepers, that could be bad or good though depending on the situation.
Emrys Myrridanmyl, Stephen F. ac17 hp102/125. rituals: Warding, Spiritual Healing, Charming, Contingency: BoL. Bless, Spectral Hand d20+30=33 ; Wednesday May 20th, 2020 6:27:45 PM
(Back in the Forest: Knowledge [Local, Nature, Religion]: 33)
Emrys hadn't noticed the greenmage immediately. Watching Culverwood accept the offering and having Velarin, Angus and his coven around him to witness this special moment, in surroundings most hallowed, had given him a great sense of warmth and fulfillment. An uncharacteristic smile forms across his face. A great deal of anger had been purged from him and was replaced with clarity Emrys gives Grynntymm Deeproot a respectful nod and he takes the glowing moonflower.
After several minutes of reflection, he mentally tells Velarin and his coven the name of the Greenmage.
Emrys wishes he could stay longer, but he knows there are other preparation to take care of. The deep forest has reinvigorated him, it is hard to leave. The shadows cast upon him reveal the natural, woodiness of his complexion, giving him the appearance of being carved out of wood. As they make their way back out of the forest, his more fleshy tones slowly reemerge.
Once returning to the Manor House, Emrys insists that his coven to have their finest robes properly laundered and pressed. This is achieved mostly through magical means, of course. Why risk soap, water and a hot iron. He will make sure his coven represent themselves at their best.
In the late night hours before bed, he can't help tend to his moonflower ... making sure it get its fill of moonlight.
Lanliss Drakeguard Michael A; AC: 26 (T 19, FF 18), CMD:31 HP:34/ (87)141 Wednesday May 20th, 2020 6:38:44 PM
Lanliss brings Manolo along. "You should see it for yourself, if anythings goes wrong....be careful", Lanliss says to Manolo and smiles. Putting a hand on Manolo's shoulder to give him an assurance.
Time and the Valley (DM Cayzle) Wednesday May 20th, 2020 11:55:29 PM
Dulcet has invited you all to a seance at the Stones north of Witchspawn on the night of the double full moon, when Glitterox explodes.
Now, a few weeks later, the night has come.
When the Keepers get to the Stones, they find that other covens are there. Dozens. Some have been summoned by Dulcet or by word of mouth. Others had dreams or a message from their patron.
The attendees form a vast spiral that encircles the Stones, then spirals in to the center. It is just after sunset. The sky to the south, towards Glitterox, is aglow with shifting firey colors. Overhead, two small moons move across the sky.
Dulcet cries out! "We have encountered the Veil! It is heavy, and it covers you! Just you!"
There is a strain in her voice. "We ... are ... lifting it! NOW! NOW cast your divinations, and they will pass the veil!"
"Hurry! We cannot hold it up forever!"
Velarin Xilontheel(Chris J), AC 17(FF 14), hp 157/157, extended mage armor(24 hrs) Thursday May 21st, 2020 7:51:26 AM
V remains quiet, not wanting to disturb any participating in the ritual, but a frown crosses his brow as Dulcet declares that we and only we are the recipients of the veil. The question still arises to him, is it for their protection by a being, or to hinder them. V waits upon Emrys, the only one of them capable of casting divinations.
(Dan K) AC: 39 (T 30 FF 34), CMD:43; HP: 246/246 Barratore Steelwind d20+26=40 ; 6d6+20=32 ; Thursday May 21st, 2020 11:40:02 AM
Barratore stands silently with the others, save Emrys, who is heavily involved, and observes the covens. The fighter was not sure they group should be trying to do this in the first place, but here they were and so be it. Dulcet's proclamation confirms the thoughts Barratore voiced a few days ago about the divination blanket only applying to The Keepers and that causes the hackles on his neck to stand up. With the Veil up, we can be found by the bad guys, get ready
Barratore pulls his bow and notches an arrow, Ready to shoot at anything teleporting or otherwise gating to the area.
Lanliss, your job is to keep the boy safe. Emrys, who created the veil and who are we being hidden from?
Readied Attack Deadly Aim Hit Greater Vital Strike Greater Pentrating Strike AC 40 Dmg 32
AC 26/ T26/ F26 CMD24 (Fdom of Move) HP 128/164 Tishe’ (SteveK) d20+19=32 ; Thursday May 21st, 2020 2:07:40 PM
Tishe’ nods her head, what Dulcet says confirms what Barratorre speculated. And the Minotaur’s warning isn’t something she was forgetting. As Trellus was fond of saying, “when the enemy is in range, so are you”. As soon as the Veil is lifted, she concentrated on her Detect Scrying. If someone is looking for the Keepers, Tishe’ May be able to find them BECAUSE they are trying to find the Keepers!
Detect Scry 32 to get a visual of anyone trying to use divination on the Keepers.
Emrys Myrridanmyl, Stephen F. ac17 hp102/125. rituals: Warding, Spiritual Healing, Charming, Contingency: BoL. Bless, Spectral Hand d20+23=32 ; Thursday May 21st, 2020 6:31:26 PM
With the scent of burnt herbs and incense wafting thick in the air, Emrys had already started chanting words of power ... casting is most strenuous of divinations. Before he began, he surrendered his blood to empower it with his own lifeforce. (Surrender Blood: +4 caster level)
Emrys strains against the veil, like Dulcet, as he enters his Vision. The air around him begins to pulse with swirl with energy. He demands it to reveal itself ...
(Casting Vision at a 23rd caster level. Caster Level Check: 32 vs. DC 30.)
Lanliss Drakeguard Michael A; AC: 26 (T 19, FF 18), CMD:31 HP:34/ (87)141 Thursday May 21st, 2020 8:06:50 PM
Lanliss stays calm, 'we are going into a fight soon', he thinks. He doesn't say anything to Manolo, not wanting to scare or panic him.
The Seance (DM Cayzle) Thursday May 21st, 2020 11:57:46 PM
Velarin lets Emrys do the heavy casting, but does earn a hero point for the insight that the Veil may be either hindrance or protection! If the latter, is lifting it dangerous?
Emrys casts his most powerful divination, a Vision spell. However he does not use it to ask for a particular revelation, not does he focus on a particular subject. What then, will the magic reveal, beyond the Veil?
Meanwhile, Barratore follows Velarin’s line of thought to a logical conclusion -- with no Veil hiding the Keepers from enemies unknown, will those enemies make a sudden appearance? Here? Now? He readies for battle.
Tishe’ too is concerned that the party is vulnerable, and she focuses to detect scrying.
Lanliss stays calm and thinks about his ward.
Edson is alert and quiet.
As the two full moons shine down, as the smoke from the smoldering volcano wafts across the moons’ faces and adds a tingle and a sharp scent to the air, revelations manifest.
The future is hidden by shadows, but for a few seconds, the shadows part to reveal a huge fortress. It is less made than grown, with curves rather than straight walls.
Tishe’s detection tingles faintly, with no pingback to reveal the source.
A god is watching you now. And other gods try to watch that god. Canine teeth bite. Secret whispers say, “why? when? depart! don’t!” As in a mirror, you see only vague shapes.
Dulcet gives out. She is very old, after all. Others in the coven fall, and the Veil again blankets the Keepers, ending the Vision.
Velarin Xilontheel(Chris J), AC 17(FF 14), hp 157/157, extended mage armor(24 hrs) d20+31=38 ; d20+27=36 ; d20+27=42 ; d20+29=44 ; Friday May 22nd, 2020 6:32:38 AM
Being able to nothing in the way of healing or medical help for Dulcet, V does as Barratore, and scans the area for threats. If someone really wanted to find them, and a short window of opportunity opened, now would be the time for them to move.
While scanning for threats, V contemplates the vision, and searches his mind for references to the huge curved fortress. (Know arcane 38, history 36, religion 42, planes 44)
AC 26/ T26/ F26 CMD24 (Fdom of Move) HP 128/164 Tishe’ (SteveK) d20+2=4 ; d8=7 ; Friday May 22nd, 2020 10:13:09 AM
Tishe’ breaks her place in the spiral and rushes to Dulcet with her wand of CLW. She can clearly see she isn’t the best healer, but maybe she is the first until more experienced hands arrive
She waits to see if Emrys learned anything more. .. definitive.
Heal Check. 4
CLW. D8+1. 8 healing to Dulcet
Edson Kazil - Shawn R; AC: 31(T 21, FF 20), CMD: 24 HP: -112/128 Friday May 22nd, 2020 5:41:42 PM
Edson mouths the words WOW to himself. This was all surreal. He then rushes besides Tishe. Not that he can help heal, but perhaps help in other ways.
Lanliss Drakeguard Michael A; AC: 26 (T 19, FF 18), CMD:31 HP:34/ (87)141 d20+27=47 ; Friday May 22nd, 2020 6:31:00 PM
Lanliss feels shock and awe at the sighting.... 'What just happened ?', he thinks. As he gets a glimpse at Dulcet falling he takes a quick look at Manolo to make sure he is fine and starts to look around the group. 'Are we safe ?', Lanliss thinks as he takes a more aware look and tries to listen to anything that might sound wrong. If there was someone that wanted to visit or ambush them.. now would be the perfect time.
Perception 47 (natural 20 )
The Seance is Over (DM Cayzle) Friday May 22nd, 2020 11:55:55 PM
Dulcet is unconscious and exhausted but not dead!
Tishe' & Edson help a little, but the veteran witches at the scene soon bundle her away for some real rest.
Velarin and Lanliss look about for danger, but the night holds no monsters; the darkness, no foes.
Manolo looks about excitedly. "Wow!" he exclaims. "That was neat! When can we do it again?"
AC 26/ T26/ F26 CMD24 (Fdom of Move) HP 128/164 Tishe’ (SteveK) Saturday May 23rd, 2020 6:20:53 AM
Without the immediate need of Dulcet, Tishe’ turns, with a moment to smile at Manolo, to the next most pressing issue. “Sieur Emrys, what did you learn?”
Cayzle Comments: Sorry for any confusion -- I should have clarified. While usually the results of a Vision spell would appear only to the caster, for some reason (your telepathy maybe?) all six Keepers saw the same thing described in the DM post. That's why I did not put the vision in spoiler tags nor in email just to Emrys. That said, maybe Emrys has some insight the rest of you missed? Entirely possible.
(Dan K) AC: 39 (T 30 FF 34), CMD:43; HP: 246/246 Barratore Steelwind Saturday May 23rd, 2020 12:08:12 PM
Barratore makes a final scan, before deciding that there was not to be any additional excitement and stows his bow. The Vision made little sense to him, not that he expected anything other than that. "Well that was entirely less than useful. Anyone know anything about a big natural castle, perhaps something growing in the Culverwood or the Crying Woods?"
Barratore walks over and ruffles the hair on Monolo's head, "Yea boy, that was real neat all right."
Velarin Xilontheel(Chris J), AC 17(FF 14), hp 157/157, extended mage armor(24 hrs) Monday May 25th, 2020 7:00:26 AM
(knowledge checks from previous post) V contemplates the vision, and searches his mind for references to the huge curved fortress or it's location. (Know arcane 38, history 36, religion 42, planes 44)
"I'm trying to remember if I've ever had any reference to such a castle Barratore.
AC 26/ T26/ F26 CMD24 (Fdom of Move) HP 128/164 Tishe’ (SteveK) d20+20=26 ; d20+3=21 ; d20+3=23 ; d20+3=9 ; Monday May 25th, 2020 8:46:37 AM
Tishe’ tries to aid Velarin’s memory.
Aid Another Know arcane 26 history 21 religion 23 planes 9 (fail)
Edson Kazil - Shawn R; AC: 31(T 21, FF 20), CMD: 24 HP: -112/128 Monday May 25th, 2020 10:26:27 AM
Edson shakes his head to Barratore's question. He was smart, but riddles and the like always tripped him up.
The Seance is Over (DM Cayzle) Monday May 25th, 2020 7:42:55 PM
Velarin and Tishe’ strain their brains to put some lore behind the strange curved fortress. Surely, were there something to know, they would know it. But in fact, just as no knowledge check will give you the grand unified field theory of universal physics, nor the story of what happened to Frodo after setting sail with the elves, nor the hidden truth about the beings known as Great C’thulhu, Voldemort, and Sylvester the Cat ... well, so too in the Wold there is knowledge yet unknown to mortals, maybe to be discovered, maybe to remain unknown, lest lesser minds shatter when confronted with it. But no knowledge check reveals it.
Tishe’ also asks Emrys for his interpretation, but he has nothing to say, so far.
Barratore and Edson accept that they are puzzled. Well, surely all will be revealed in good time?
Lanliss is quiet, and Manolo asks him if he is worried.
The witches bundle Dulcet off to a tent that was set up a little ways away before the seance. Soon everyone else has drifted away from the stones. A witch calls to you to say that Dulcet wants a word.
“But be quick about it and do not upset her!” the witch scolds. “She’s very weak! Ask her no more than THREE quick questions!”
In the tent, Dulcet is exhausted and weak. She takes Enrys’s hand, but her touch is as faint as a feather. Emrys, no strongman, feels that he would break her fingers if he squeezed back.
She says that she felt the presence of divinities, although she did not see the vision. She wants to know what gods were involved, and if this will affect the Valley. You can briefly answer her and ask your three questions. After three, the witch-nurse will be chasing you out.
Lanliss Drakeguard Michael A; AC: 26 (T 19, FF 18), CMD:31 HP:34/ (87)141 Monday May 25th, 2020 8:59:14 PM
Lanliss let the others ask Dulcet the questions they might have. Lanliss is happy to see Manolo curious about a lot of things. "I am worried about many things that might happen, Manolo", He says to Manolo. "The Wold is vast and there are dangers, that even we, might not be able to withstand at time....from this I am afraid" "The right preparation makes a huge difference between victory or loss",he adds. "Sometimes we break out limits but a wise hero knows when not to push his limits, or rather luck...too far", He advises to Manolo
"At times, we see magnificent things like this", Lanliss says. "And other times, we might deal with mundane and not so exciting things ", he adds.
Velarin Xilontheel(Chris J), AC 17(FF 14), hp 157/157, extended mage armor(24 hrs) Tuesday May 26th, 2020 7:57:47 AM
V gives Dulcet a quick run down of what he had seen in the vision, and describes the fortress that they saw. He then asks the first question, leaving the remaining two for his companions in case anyone has one they wish to ask. "Do you have an idea of what or who's fortress it was?" I have no knowledge of it.
AC 26/ T26/ F26 CMD24 (Fdom of Move) HP 128/164 Tishe’ (SteveK) Tuesday May 26th, 2020 10:13:14 AM
Tishe’ speaks quietly: she has known Dulcet a long time, and even when they first met, the Witch was old. “Only shadows, though we could all feel there was a god watching us, and the other gods watching that god.”
“Question 2. We heard whispers including ‘go!’ And ‘don’t!’ Do you know which figures urged us to go and to where?”
She waits to see if anyone else has a question before asking her next thought.
“Question 3. I saw Canine teeth bite. How does that relate to the rest of the Vision?”
(Dan K) AC: 39 (T 30 FF 34), CMD:43; HP: 246/246 Barratore Steelwind Tuesday May 26th, 2020 1:22:29 PM
Barratore turns to regard the witch and snorts, "No." he replies forcibly and he fixes her with a gaze for the briefest of moments. He then turns and completely dismisses her and address the others
" I'm heading back to the manor house to pack. If anything actually comes of all this, just let me know. Otherwise, I'm heading South"
Barratore turns on his hoof and heads for home. There was nothing for him to do and being dressed down like some common up start was more than he was now willing to put up with. Not too many years ago, he would like gone to the tent, just to stay and let them attempt to move him, but now. Pfft. He just wanted as little to do with it as possible
Emrys Myrridanmyl, Stephen F. ac17 hp102/125. rituals: Warding, Spiritual Healing, Charming, Contingency: BoL. Bless, Spectral Hand d20+8=25 ; d20+30=49 ; d20+30=47 ; d20+29=47 ; Tuesday May 26th, 2020 9:03:27 PM
With white, pale glowing eyes, Emrys finally returns to the surface from deep within his vision. He is just as confused as everyone else, along with being heavily fatigued from the experience (Condition: Fatigued). Emrys, himself, also trembles with weakness, but still he fears he could crush Dulcet's delicate hand.
This power or god had a very feral quality, possibly someone aligned with the darker side of nature, ravenous hunger of a predator ... definitely super natural. He searches his mind for the answer.
The Seance is Over (DM Cayzle) Tuesday May 26th, 2020 11:44:12 PM
Barratore is unhappy with the nurse witch’s treatment of them and leaves to let the others determine what the portents may mean.
Lanliss waits for the others to pose their questions of Dulcet, while taking the opportunity to provide some wisdom to his young ward. “Gosh, Master Lanliss,” says Manolo, “you know a lot. What’s your number one rule for being an adventurer?”
On the other side of the tent set up by the witches, Velarin asks Dulcet, “Do you have an idea of what or whose fortress it was?”
She lifts her head to respond, the effort clearly taxing. “It was no fortress I have ever seen or heard of in tales,” she responds, with a regretful shake of her head. “I suspect it is not of the Wold, but that is only conjecture on my part. I'll say that it looked to me like it had grown there, rather than being made. Not grown in a healthy natural way either.”
Tishe’ is quick to ask a question of her own, “ We heard whispers including ‘go!’ And ‘don’t!’ Do you know which figures urged us to go and to where?”
“There are gods involved. You saw them. In any contest of gods, some will want one set of events to transpire, while others seek a different course. All I can suggest is that you use your own judgement.”
Emrys tries to recall some hint that will give him more information about the gods in the vision. It is clear to him that the Culverwood is not involved. Indeed, none of the fey powers seem to have a hand in it. He would know. Other than that, he has no clue.
Tishe’ waits to see if anyone else has a question before asking her next thought.
“I saw Canine teeth bite. How does that relate to the rest of the Vision?”
Dulcet smiles, and offers only the most obvious explanation: “That you will meet canine foes?”
Edson listens intently.
But then it is time to let Dulcet recover in peace. She wishes you luck in a whisper, and hopes that the night’s activities gave them more information than previously. She suspects, overall, that these powerful omens mean that something big is coming up for the Keepers of the Vale.
AC 26/ T26/ F26 CMD24 (Fdom of Move) HP 128/164 Tishe’ (SteveK) Wednesday May 27th, 2020 5:53:33 AM
Tishe’ returns to the Manor in a funk as deep as Barratorre’s. All they know is there is a veil of no divination magic about the Keepers and it has something to do with the gods, a castle and getting hit by a dog. And the first part they had figured out before the seance, and the second parts they knew before talking with Dulcet. And none of it allows them to get any better prepared or be proactive in dealing with it.
“Let’s kill something. Those two Wyrmwraiths have need of getting their threads cut!”
Velarin Xilontheel(Chris J), AC 17(FF 14), hp 157/157, extended mage armor(24 hrs) Wednesday May 27th, 2020 8:17:07 AM
“I believe I am in agreement Tishe’. We will need protection from their life and energy draining abilities. We will also need to figure out how to prevent them from disappearing into the ground.”
Edson Kazil - Shawn R; AC: 31(T 21, FF 20), CMD: 24 HP: -112/128 Wednesday May 27th, 2020 3:09:51 PM
"Is there any form of magic where we can follow them into the ground when they disapear. Hit them while they hurt? " Edson asks.
(Dan K) AC: 39 (T 30 FF 34), CMD:43; HP: 246/246 Barratore Steelwind Wednesday May 27th, 2020 5:09:09 PM
Barratore greets the group as they return home with a round of drinks. "Shocking, we have nothing. So on the dragon wraiths then."
"We need to be protected from negative energy and they can throw some pretty mighty time to die now spells we need to take into account. As Edson suggests, we need get to the Shadow plane and go after them there. If we cannot follow them, they are well nigh invincible"
"We are reduced to Ready and fire and if heavily wounded, there is no reason they would simply not simply retreat into the ground and stay there. Overwhelming either of them in a single round is not going to happen."
Barratore takes a drink, "I hate to say it, but unless we solve the retreat into the ground thing, we're about as useful as that vision."
Emrys Myrridanmyl, Stephen F. ac17 hp102/125. rituals: Warding, Spiritual Healing, Charming, Contingency: BoL. Bless, Spectral Hand Wednesday May 27th, 2020 6:03:51 PM
As Emrys mulls over multiple puzzles in his mind over various subjects, he chimes in to the current discussion. "I've been putting some thought into ways to forcefully summon them to a place and time of our choosing, like in natural daylight, where they would be helpless. Though, it would most certainly require expensive spell materials."
Lanliss Drakeguard Michael A; AC: 26 (T 19, FF 18), CMD:31 HP:34/ (87)141 Wednesday May 27th, 2020 9:34:44 PM
"There is no one rule", Lanliss replies. "Go and ask the other keepers, you might be surprised by their answers and all of them will be right", Lanliss says as he want Manolo to get different perspectives regarding adventuring.
The Seance is Over (DM Cayzle) Wednesday May 27th, 2020 10:04:57 PM
In the morning, Tishe' , who as the DM understands things, keeps a Detect Scrying spell active 24/7, senses a ping on the spell. The scryer does not try to hide who they are: You see a face like an elven maid. Tishe' also sense that the scryer is an infinite distance away, in a direction perpendicular to the usual three that she knows.
Those with a modicum of Planar lore deduce that the Scryer is on another plane of existence.
She waves at Tishe', and POP!
A lantern archon appears, drops a scroll, and then POP is gone.
The elf maid waves again and then stops scrying.
There is a glowing scroll wrapped with a red silk ribbon on the floor in front of you.
AC 26/ T26/ F26 CMD24 (Fdom of Move) HP 128/164 Tishe’ (SteveK) Thursday May 28th, 2020 6:03:32 AM
Tishe’ glumly listens to the others and Barratorre’s assessment. “For defenses, Death Ward should suffice. I bought some scrolls at the Catacombs for such an emergency in the future. My skill in UMD is good enough to cast even those with little problem. For keeping them above ground, what about a Grasping Hand Spell? It’s a force effect that can grapple them. All we would need are a couple seconds...”
And she stops talking, her eyes and head moving about. “We are being scryed! Elf maid. Can’t tell where...”, vertigo ensues, “... whoa Piggies!”
.... Endure Elements Detect Scrying
(Dan K) AC: 39 (T 30 FF 34), CMD:43; HP: 246/246 Barratore Steelwind Thursday May 28th, 2020 10:03:35 AM
Barratore is nodding along with Tishe's thought on the Grasping Hand and looks to V. He's the big bad wizard, "Would that work? Can you catch a wraith dragon?"
As Tishe calls out the scrying, Barratore stands up and moves towards Lanliss and The Boy. "Probably should start carrying arms and armor going forward." He was hardly helpless, but without his blade, bow and armor, he was certainly less useful should something come blasting into the mansion.
The Lantern Archon appears, and leaves. Barratore scowls. "When we get a chance, we should drop some protection spells about our home at least eh?"
The fighter will pick up the scroll and open it
Velarin Xilontheel(Chris J), AC 17(FF 14), hp 157/157, extended mage armor(24 hrs) Thursday May 28th, 2020 11:55:35 AM
“I don’t have the spell grasping hand, but I do have it’s big brother, crushing hand, which in theory would crush it while holding it. There is a chance he could avoid it though, it’s not automatic.”
“I could summon a bunch of earth elementals to go after them if underground, but the wraiths could likely get away faster than the elementals could follow, and I’m not sure the elementals could hurt them. And I would have to be very near the ground to do it.”
V continues pondering options until a lantern archon appears and drops a scroll in front of Tishe’. V stops and waits for the inevitable reading of the scroll
Edson Kazil - Shawn R; AC: 31(T 21, FF 20), CMD: 24 HP: -112/128 Thursday May 28th, 2020 8:09:42 PM
"everyone saw that right? i wasn't just standing too close to the incense right? That thing just dropped the scroll in front of Tishe right?"
Lanliss Drakeguard Michael A; AC: 26 (T 19, FF 18), CMD:31 HP:34/ (87)141 Thursday May 28th, 2020 8:35:24 PM
Lanliss is surprised by what happened. "A divine help", he says. "Definitely not Gragul", he says out loud. 'Who could the elf be', Lanliss wonders.
Emrys Myrridanmyl, Stephen F. ac17 hp102/125. rituals: Warding, Spiritual Healing, Charming, Contingency: BoL. Bless, Spectral Hand d20+34=48 ; d20+34=43 ; Thursday May 28th, 2020 10:33:20 PM
"Agreed Edson," Emrys motions toward the glowing scroll. "Are we going to address the glowing scroll that just popped into the room from another extra-dimensional plane of existence?" He then looks to Tishe, "Are you okay, you seem out of sorts. Are you under attack?"
Emrys casts Detect Magic and attempts to identify it's magical auras.
(Knowledge [Arcana]: 48. Spellcraft: 43.)
"The quality of the parchment is exquisite!"
The Seance is Over (DM Cayzle) Thursday May 28th, 2020 11:49:07 PM
The scroll is magic because it has a Light spell on it.
It reads: "My dear friends, for so I hope you will be, greetings. We have much to discuss, so I wanted to let you know that I will arrive this afternoon for a conversation. Please dispel the Light on this scroll so that I will know you have read it. Thanks and see you all soon. Signed, Qaphsiel"
AC 26/ T26/ F26 CMD24 (Fdom of Move) HP 164/164 Tishe’ (SteveK) Friday May 29th, 2020 6:06:22 AM
Tishe’ is eager to target a dispel on the Light, and barely contains herself until most of the Keepers agree. “We need to know more, no matter which Power, avatar, or messenger arrives”, she points out.
As soon as two others agree, she casts her spell to remove the Light.
And then begins another wait. When Qaphsiel arrives, they will find Tishe’ as if ready for a long journey: all adventuring gear packed and ready!
Velarin Xilontheel(Chris J), AC 17(FF 14), hp 157/157, extended mage armor(24 hrs) Friday May 29th, 2020 8:21:25 AM
“What else did you see Tishe’? Who is Qaphsiel? What is Qaphsiel? Why is he or she coming, and how are friends?”
Edson Kazil - Shawn R; AC: 31(T 21, FF 20), CMD: 24 HP: -112/128 Friday May 29th, 2020 8:13:40 PM
Edson seeing Tishe getting ready, does the same himself. The way the scroll was dropped off was odd, but Tishe seemed okay with the method.
The Seance is Over (DM Cayzle) Saturday May 30th, 2020 12:38:53 AM
Mid-morning, Roel steps in to announce a visitor. It is a local woman, Hmary from Jarlswolf. She is clearly very nervous and apologetic about bothering you. She carries a baby in her arms.
"Lords, my name is Hmary, and -- oh gosh, so sorry, I mean Lords and Lady!" she curtsies carefully to Tishe' while still holding the babe.
The child starts crying, and she apologizes and tries again. "I mean, my name is Hmary, and this is Hnartin, my son, and all I have left of my husband!" the baby starts crying louder, and the mother starts crying.
You calm her down, I am sure, and Roel fetches a chair and a drink. She has come because she is seeking a cure for her child. The infant has a bad cleft in his nose and upper lip, and cure disease cannot fix a birth defect. She eventually explains that the babe can't suck, because he can't make a seal, and sometimes the milk gets in his lungs, and the healers and local witches say there is nothing they can do.
So she's clearly gathered her courage to approach you Keepers of the Vale for help. Is there anything you can do to help save this child?
AC 26/ T26/ F26 CMD24 (Fdom of Move) HP 164/164 Tishe’ (SteveK) Sunday May 31st, 2020 4:49:36 PM
One thing that Tishe’ is absolutely no good at is piggies. Protecting them, sure, but caring for them? Being a comfort for a mother? Tishe’ isn’t one of those people! But she can see the hope in her eyes, and how can she turn her away?
“Sit, please, Madam Hmary. I am sorry that there is nothing I can do. The Keepers are indeed very powerful, but not all-powerful or all knowing. There are patterns not understood, and some are hard, hard. I can’t give a solution, and I’m no good at solace. I think the priests are better than that. But I can sit with you the morning and share a tea?”
She serves with her own hand and a listening ear, not able to provide any more.
(Dan K) AC: 39 (T 30 FF 34), CMD:43; HP: 246/246 Barratore Steelwind Monday June 1st, 2020 9:31:11 AM
Barratore hands the scroll over for a Dispel after he reads it aloud to the others. "My question is, if this is directly because the divination mask was lifted and everyone playing knows where the pawns are now or if this elf happened to be just know." Either way did not sit too well with him, but there was nothing to be done about it except have a good drink and dismiss it. So that is what he does.
Halfway through the 3rd tankard, Roel announces a visitor. Barratore stands as she enters and gestures for her to take a seat and sits back down himself. He listens and his heart is moved, but he knows there is even less that he can do than Tishe. Not a curse, not a disease and not a wound to be cured. Barratore lands on 2 thoughts which he conveys telepathically.
Miracle or polymorph. Polymorph the babe into a different human. You can change features and such I believe. The mother will need to move past the baby's new looks, but at least the child would live. And growing up in Jarlswolf the odds of coming into contact with a successful dispel against what we put on the child is terribly low
Velarin Xilontheel(Chris J), AC 17(FF 14), hp 157/157, extended mage armor(24 hrs) Monday June 1st, 2020 2:03:28 PM
Mentally, V responds “Agreed Barratore. This is hefty magic we are talking about, and not without a price. What happens if we try and do this? Word will likely spread that we are healers and willing to do so. I’m not sure it’s a wise thing to do. What do the rest of you think?”
The Seance is Over (DM Cayzle) Monday June 1st, 2020 7:26:44 PM
While Tishe' has a very nice sit-down with Hmary, the other Keepers confer mentally.
Lanliss Drakeguard Michael A; AC: 26 (T 19, FF 18), CMD:31 HP:34/ (87)141 Monday June 1st, 2020 8:00:32 PM
Lanliss forgets about the name, thinking random thoughts about the future as the keepers are notified about new guests. Lanliss almost asks the obvious, how a baby like this could survive such an horrific ritual of almost drowning to death from the very thing that he needs so much.
'I can't cure this', Lanliss thinks
Lanliss approaches the problem from a different perspective after a random idea came up.
"Lady Hmary, may I ask to tell us more about yourself and your husband......" Pause, Lanliss takes his idea further. Not before warning the lady. "What I am about to say and ask might seem out of reach...almost crazy, but we do need to be very through with this"
"I am not sure if this is natural or not as I am not a wizard ", Lanliss says and points at the baby cleft "Did your husband or yourself , have any enemies or anyone that would even think about casting a curse on the baby"
(!IF NEGATIVE THEN!)
Lanliss asks another question "Did anyone of your family or ancestors had any problems of any kind that is worth mentioning ?"
AFTERWARDS (happens anyway)
Lanliss bows lightly to the lady, "Thank you my lady for this information", Lanliss says.
'Lanliss relies telepathically "Any other ideas? Does any of the new information helps ?"
Velarin Xilontheel(Chris J), AC 17(FF 14), hp 157/157, extended mage armor(24 hrs) Tuesday June 2nd, 2020 7:17:08 AM
V waits for Hmary to answer Lanliss's questions, and waits for input from the other keepers.
(Dan K) AC: 39 (T 30 FF 34), CMD:43; HP: 246/246 Barratore Steelwind Tuesday June 2nd, 2020 2:13:24 PM
Barratore excuses himself, there was no need to sit about looming over the woman. He had put in his opinion with the others and didn't think it wise to make speculation aloud. "I have other duties that I must attend to, excuse me. Barratore leaves and answers Lanliss through the telepathic link.
I do not believe it some kind of curse, else the witches would have at least uncovered that fact. It could be some family thing. Let me know if anything arises. I'm going to continue clearing out the footings for the trade school hall
The Seance is Over (DM Cayzle) Tuesday June 2nd, 2020 5:13:06 PM
Just to add some info and move us along:
The mom is shocked to think about someone cursing her baby. "Not a wee bairn!" she exclaims.
Hmary can't imagine that anyone powerful would be an enemy of hers. But yes, she has a cousin, and a great-uncle, both on her husband's side, who had less serious versions.
AC 26/ T26/ F26 CMD24 (Fdom of Move) HP 164/164 Tishe’ (SteveK) Tuesday June 2nd, 2020 5:59:17 PM
Tishe’ just keeps company with Hmary, even unbending enough to dip a cloth napkin in some milk so the babe can gnaw on it.
Lanliss Drakeguard Michael A; AC: 26 (T 19, FF 18), CMD:31 HP:34/ (87)141 Tuesday June 2nd, 2020 8:34:50 PM
'so it is something that passes in family perhaps' "I am sorry if I offended you ", Lanliss says calmly.
"I just tried to find another a... way to help your baby, as things like this might happen because of things like curses and another magical means...", Lanliss says.
'I am out if ideas', he relies to the keepers.
Emrys Myrridanmyl, Stephen F. ac17 hp102/125. rituals: Warding, Spiritual Healing, Charming, Contingency: BoL. Bless, Spectral Hand d20+19=38 ; d20+32=37 ; Tuesday June 2nd, 2020 10:04:02 PM
Emrys is told by a coven member about their visitor and he comes down stairs to address the problem. He is most concerned when he is told about the problem with the small child. There are things he can do, and he tries his best to reassure the mother and rest her worries at ease ... if that were even possible.
He thoughtfully considers a various assortment of cures. The threat of a curse is remote, (but with no knowledge of genetics in classic fantasy lore), he does secretly allows it in his mind as a possibility.
"I am going to cast a few spells ... be not afraid," he tells the mother. He leaves out what those spells are on purpose.
First he casts Detect Magic and observes the child in an attempt to detect magical manipulation.
He also casts a second spell. If this was a curse, this spell would certainly purge it, but if there isnt ... it wouldn't hurt to try. He mutters softly a few words of power and touches the child.
(Emrys casts Remove Curse on the baby. Caster Level check: 38.)
He gives himself a knowing glance (Guidance stare) then conducts a gentle, physical examination to determine the child's health and any other physical maladies. (Heal Check: 37)
He mentally talks to his friends about possible magical treatments. "There are possible Miracle Cures and Regenerate magics ... but I could attempt to reshape the birth defect with a Polymorph Any Object spell. Since I would not be changing the flesh into anything other than the child's normal flesh, the change would remain permanent. It's the only thing I can think of without invoking a Miracle cure. What do you all say?"
Edson Kazil - Shawn R; AC: 31(T 21, FF 20), CMD: 24 HP: -112/128 Tuesday June 2nd, 2020 10:17:59 PM
Edson might have some children somewhere, but none that he knew. He didn't know how to care for them, and one with a deformity was even less.
He quietly thought and ideas the others say might work, Barratore's in particular.
The Seance is Over (DM Cayzle) Tuesday June 2nd, 2020 11:55:17 PM
Emrys and Tishe' are kind, though Barratore has better things to do. Edson and Lanliss do their best to help, and Velarin is contemplative.
Emrys deduces that this is a non-magical birth defect. Without magic, it will be hard for this babe to live.
The heroes have considered three possible cures: Polymorph, Regeneration, and Miracle. Will you choose to try one of these?
Velarin Xilontheel(Chris J), AC 17(FF 14), hp 157/157, extended mage armor(24 hrs) d20+31=51 ; Wednesday June 3rd, 2020 7:47:11 AM
V listens to the others and responds telepathically to Emrys. It seems like the Polymorph might be the best way to go, as long as you think you can do it safely, and without further problems to the child. It is not a spell I have cast, but if you are sure it will work, and not harm the child, it's probably worth a shot."
V uses his arcane knowledge to try and determine if there is a down side in using the spell (51. nat 20)
AC 26/ T26/ F26 CMD24 (Fdom of Move) HP 164/164 Tishe’ (SteveK) Wednesday June 3rd, 2020 9:43:24 AM
Tishe’ stays with their visitor while conversing with the Keepers via thier telepathic link. ‘Polymorph is only temporary, it would require a Miracle or Wish. Yet they have repercussions beyond the initial cost. Save one babe and have thousands following us for Miracles. Not only do we literally not have the resources to do everything, they would be horrible vulnerable in a battle if we are attacked. I fear there is nothing we should do.’
In her normal voice, she says the blunt thing, in as gentle a way as she knows how. “Hmary, I fear that you may only be able to get comfort, not cure. And the priests of Gargul would be the best I know to offer that solasce. “
(Dan K) AC: 39 (T 30 FF 34), CMD:43; HP: 246/246 Barratore Steelwind Wednesday June 3rd, 2020 10:25:08 AM
Barratore puts down his axe and gives the tree a push. As Emrys says, his Polymorph would be permanent and we should not shy away from helping for fear of others coming to us looking for assistance. The reason she sought us out is that we have helped others. We saved the city of Effacia, we helped the villages in the Dreadlands. We helped the people of the Valley directly. Life is life, and helping is helping. There is no difference from doing this than from handing out gold at a party to help those in poverty.
Barratore grabs a shovel and starts digging out the tree root.
Emrys Myrridanmyl, Stephen F. ac17 hp102/125. rituals: Warding, Spiritual Healing, Charming, Contingency: BoL. Bless, Spectral Hand d20+50=67 ; Wednesday June 3rd, 2020 7:10:31 PM
Emrys answers back mentally with the others, "Well then, it is decided. I will do my best to help this child. I will take great precautions to assure success. It will depend more on my Healing skills than my magic to do this right."
He turns to the mother and says in a confident but soft tone, "I believe I can help your child. It will take a little magic, but I think I can cure the child of this defect. If you don't mind, I would like to put the child in a deep sleep. There is no need for the child to experience the procedure." He mostly doesn't want the child squirming and crying while he's trying to concentrate.
(Emrys casts Deep Slumber on the Child. Will Save: 25. Duration: 19 minutes.)
He then gives himself another gaze of guidance and casts a powerful divination on himself to give him more insight to doing this procedure correctly.
(Emrys casts Moment of Prescience on himself. Duration: 19 hours. +19 insight bonus ... in this case, to a skill check.)
Emrys carefully uses the knowledge of Healing to guide his hands and will to reshape the child's own flesh, oh so slightly and carefully, in order to erase the defect that nature had given him ... to restore him to normal function and appearance.
(Heal Check d20+51 = 68. I added +1 to the roll because the dice roller modifier only goes to +50.)
(Emry casts Polymorph Any Object on the Child. Duration Factor: +13, Permanent. Fort Save: 30. Target: One creature or non-magical object, up to 1,900 cubic feet in size.)
Lanliss Drakeguard Michael A; AC: 26 (T 19, FF 18), CMD:31 HP:34/ (87)141 Wednesday June 3rd, 2020 7:42:39 PM
'' Good luck" , Lanliss relies to Emrys, as he watches Emrys healing the child.
The Seance is Over (DM Cayzle) d20=15 ; Wednesday June 3rd, 2020 10:55:49 PM
The healing procedure goes very well, and Emrys succeeds in polymorphing the child into a healed version of itself! Well done!
Hero Point to Baratorre for first thinking of this solution, and to Emrys for carrying it out impeccably.
Hmary starts crying in joy, and she can hardly talk for her deep emotions -- first the fear that nothing could be done, and then the casting of scary magic, and then a cure from beyond hope! She thanks you all and can hardly contain herself.
Then she rushes off to show off her baby and tell her family the good news.
[OOC: This concludes Scene Zero of the new module. Everybody please accept 100,000 xp.]
LOG ON