We now return to our regularly scheduled broadcast -- DM Jim Friday April 2nd, 2010 1:22:57 PM
Gathering up their equipment, most of the Mudders decide to accompany Jacob to the Manfri village. Thoughts of steelgrass armor dance in Bosk's mind like little sugar-coated cherubs flying amongst clouds of marshmallow laced with sweet honey.
Taking Buiwerf and the Great Ranthom with them, Jacob blazes a trail through the ten feet high grass. Unlike before, Bosk's fur does not stand up on end as it is still matted down with the blood of the earth as he had to squeeze through the tight tunnels of the underground witches lair. Hours pass and at one point Jacob becomes lost--just like he had in Hook City. But remembering his way after a bit, he leads the Mudders into a large clearing populated by grass-woven huts and small ebony-skinned people. One of the first things the group noticed was how springy the floor of the clearing was--it was in fact not cut, but woven into a huge matt that covered the entire clearing.
Standing at the perimeter of the clearing, the group was greeted by what seemed to be the whole village, all twenty of them. The Manfri looked like miniature drow-halflings, less the pointy ears, and spoke to each other excitedly by the visitors and perhaps the Great Ranthom that had made the trail they had brought. Some seemed very interested in Bosk also, never having seen a minotaur before. Three elderly manfri, if you could call them that--for it was very hard to determine their ages, came forward to greet Jacob and the group.
"Greetings Master Jacob and honored guests," said the center positioned Manfri who wore an elaborate headdress that was about half his height in length, "we welcome you to our village and wish you many blessings for what you have done for my people." Bowing low and holding it, the head Manfri continues after he finishes his bow, "We also thank you for this gift of such a great beast to sacrifice for the feast," pointing to Bosk, "but it was unnecessary, as we have already procured a beast for the slaughter." The Manfri chieftain points behind him to the center of the village where a circle of bare earth was exposed with a great pit that had a roasting spit made of two large grates to sandwich the item to be roasted in between them. Off to the side, trussed up on a pole was a middle-aged liontaur, looking quite strange. Perhaps it was the large amounts of special sauce the Manfri workers had massaged into the liontaurs pelt to season him, or maybe it was the large piece of fruit that was stuck in it's mouth, whatever the case, it just looked peculiar. His eyes flickering open, the liontaur took in the sight of the Mudders--his chance for rescue was at hand.
ooc: Jay/Grendel has gone inactive. Please welcome Cayzle/Zeoll to the game :)
Zeoll, DC25 Str check or Escape Artist to free yourself from the pole.
Bosk (James) AC: 19/11/18 HP 31 of 31 Spells d20-2=4 ; Friday April 2nd, 2010 2:37:32 PM Beast to sacrifice or the feast? They may be planning a feast in our honor, but Jacob better not expect me to be the main course. The hulking cleric rises his eyebrow before letting out a tremendous laugh. Hahahaha. Jacob didn't tell me you guys had such a sense of humor. For a second there I actually thought you invited me to the banquet to be the main course.
Holding his side he laughs a little more and wipes a tear from his eye. Thank you for inviting us. I hope over dinner you can tell us more about these witches we had to rescue Jacob from.
Turning to look at the liontaur Bosk is sure that the manfri did in fact see him as food, but he feels it best to keep a non-threatening demeanor until Jacob speaks up or him. He will have to wait to help the wemic until they are aware that he is more than a mindless beast.
diplomacy d20-2=4
Zeoll Friday April 2nd, 2010 4:30:17 PM
The liontaur does not bother to try his bonds again. He has done so already, and he knows that even under the best of circumstances, he will not be able to free himself [OOC: Even on a nat 20, Zeoll cannot beat those DCs.]
And alas, gagged as he is with, of all the ignoble gags one could imagine, a fruit, Zeoll cannot even put his most powerful weapon -- his voice -- into play. The only sound coming from the liontaur is the click of the beads braided into his mane as they clatter against each other in the breeze.
Still, he is not frustrated or angry or particularly outraged. If there is an emotion to be found in his eyes as he looks at the manfri and the newcomers, it is resignation.
Zeoll Again d20+8=25 ; Friday April 2nd, 2010 5:13:21 PM
[OOC: Thanks Jim for the clarification.]
The liontaur works his teeth -- especially the fierce canines that bend his tongue and give him his strong accent. Maybe he can bite through ...
Zeoll swallows some fruit and spits out the rest. He opens his mouth and says gently but clearly, "Excuse me!"
"Though I am marrred and somewhat tarrred, I am a student and a barrd, not a beast forr a feast!"
"If it is not too inconvenient, please do rrelease me. I would rratherr serrve dinnerr than be serrved."
Diplomacy 28. My first roll in this game is a natural 20 on a diplomacy check. I'd call that a good omen.
Edited to add the link to the PC sheet and to change the mod on the Dip check from +5 to +8.
Valla AC:(20)16/16/12 HP:6/12 Friday April 2nd, 2010 5:59:49 PM
As everyone arrives at the manfru village; Valla is somewhat impressed. the little people have actually made houses out of grass... Intriguing
He laughs along with Bosk when they mention him baing a sacrafice. But when Valla sees the liontaur, he realizes these Manfri really will eat exotic beasts. Just when Valla was going to ask a few questions, the lion begins speaking... a rhyming lion, He shakes his head in disbelief. Then looks to the Manfri cheiftain; My name is Valla. Its an honor to be welcomed here.
Bosk (James) AC: 19/11/18 HP 31 of 31 Spells d20-2=14 ; Friday April 2nd, 2010 6:01:07 PM
ooc: looks like a 25 to me, but that is still much better than my 4. Good to have on the table....err..team.
I must admit, I would rather eat with you than eat you. More so, I would hate to be eaten.
The cleric laughs again. There must be a misunderstanding here. It seems you fine people have never before met a minotaur or a liontaur, for our kind do not often travel to this area. That or you are very polite to invite your prey for dinner. Please, let this noble creature go and we will tell you what we learned about the witches who have been taking your people.
Diplomacy 14
Beriothian (Will)-- AC:18/15/13 HP:13/13 Friday April 2nd, 2010 9:01:01 PM
Beriothian enters the small village with the group.
Mmmm, I smell bbq! This party is going to be excellent! Moments later Beri realizes that what's about to be roasted is a large liontaur. He turns and addresses the chief when he hears the lion speak. He knows that even at his best he would be unable to match the eloquence of their plea.
Chief Barrantadatoda -- DM Jim Friday April 2nd, 2010 9:15:11 PM
"By the gods, it speaks!" Much jibberjabber emanates from the Manfri in a language unknown to Jacob and the Mudders. The chieftain runs to the Liontaurs side and profusely apologizes, "Many regrets and apologizes! We thought you a lion of the plains, an odd abberation, but a lion nonetheless--how wrong we were!" Motioning to the workers to cut the liontaur free, the chieftain steps back, bows and asks apologetically, "Please Lion...man, forgive us for capturing you!"
Valla AC:(20)16/16/12 HP:6/12 Saturday April 3rd, 2010 12:01:46 AM
Valla smiles when they release the beast; at least these people are naturally nicer than humans; or anyone in MudTown for that matter.
Valla makes a scan around the area, including the obvious and giant trail we made by getting here.
Zeoll laughs as the small people work to get him free. "Please, it is of no consequence. Therre is nothing to forrgive. I came to this place to learrn frrom the ones called Manfrri, and I have so farr learrned that
-- you arre most silent and deadly in attack. -- you have unmatched skills at ambushing. -- and, most of all, you make a delicious rroasting sauce."
The liontaur grins as he continues to clean himself up. "May we continue to learrn about each otherr and grrow in frriendship."
Looking around, and nodding at the minotaur, Zeoll adds, "May we have intrroductions? I am Zeoll, a wanderrerr. Who arre you, who arre yourr people, and who arre yourr guests?"
Valla AC:(20)16/16/12 HP:6/12 d20+11=21 ; Saturday April 3rd, 2010 3:30:06 AM
OOC: I forgot to roll my perception checkin the last post I guess.. Perception (from last post) 21
Valla Crudarian; wandering scholar and Wizard. Part time mercanary it seems as well. He smiles; giving a nod to the liontaur. Well met Zeoll. How'd you find your way to the Sargrass Plains?
He looks at Bosk and nods as well; It seems Bosk is having a grand time at the moment. He's found the makers of his Steel Grass armor; as well as another intelligent beast/man like himself. Whats to say that most or all beasts have advanced intelligence passing through rare genetics throughout their bloodlines.. This is a matter I'll never understand nor figure out. Nonetheless; something to ponder on... Valla trails off into thought for a moment after introducing himself; contemplating the Liontaur.
A wanderer? I'd wander in safer places if I was him... I wonder what his 'area of expertise' is. He must know some skill or another; surviving within the sargrass plains seems as a difficult task at times.. He lets out a low chuckle. Then looks around at everyone, seeing if they noticed; Speaking of the grasses. I'd do good to see about this Sargrass that turns to food. Might be worthwile.
Sorry, there is no Perception skill in 3.5e, you're thinking of Pathfinder :) DM Jim
Ransy AC 19/11/18 Hp -41/23 Saturday April 3rd, 2010 6:02:50 AM
Ransy is glad that the misunderstanding about the taurs has been cleared up so quickly and peacefully. He introduces himself to both the Manfri and the liontaur: I am Ransy Stormhide, a paladin of Domi, the exalted champion of the Gods. Nice to meet you. We have urgent business in Mudtown, but we couldn't refuse such a kind offer of a meal with the Manfri.
We were very sorry to learn that the witches had killed so many of your people. I offer my condolences to you and your people. This last sentence was directed to the chief of the Manfri.
Ransy detects evil in the direction of the Manfri people, to see if someone might be possessed by evil among them.
Maikill HP 38/39, AC17 Saturday April 3rd, 2010 9:49:25 AM
Maikill has a growl in his stomach as they entered the clearing, and now it has turned into a rumble in the empty pit.
"Too bad it not real lion, I hungry. We should have brought witches, sauce good for witches maybe."
looking around, it seems like he has mistakenly spoke out loud.
"Oh, Sorry. I not really want eat you." he says to the liontaur.
To the manfri and liontaur he says:
"I Maikill, I fight bad people. Kill head witch, cut her in half. Now I hungry."
OOC: THE Cayzle? YES :) DM Jim
Bosk (James) AC: 19/11/18 HP 31 of 31 Spells Saturday April 3rd, 2010 2:36:34 PM
Taking a bow, the Horned Cleric responds, "I am Bosk DeOX, son of the late Cenoios DeOx, Master Vintner and Brewer of the sacred blue wine of Imod. I am servant to Gargul, judger of life and death, in training as I seek acceptance as a Grim. I am at your service.
Through a series of events we ended up here from Hook CIty in order to rescue Jacob from a group of witches who have apparently been kidnapping the manfri and wish to destroy them because they do not like the grass of the plains and blame these people for planting it."
Chief Barrantadatoda -- DM Jim Saturday April 3rd, 2010 2:53:07 PM
The chieftain is very pleased to not be eaten by the now released Liontaur, "I am chief Barrantadatoda and I welcome you to our village, Master Zeoll." Bowing again, but not holding it as long, he then takes Ransy's introduction and stern gaze as an indication that the paladin was very sincere and resolute in what he said.
When Maikill states his hunger in no uncertain terms, the chieftain sighs and apologizes, "I'm very sorry, but with our new guest," pointing to Zeoll, "no longer on the menu, we don't have much to give that I feel is appropriate to such an occasion." Sighing, his eyes brighten just a little, "If you would be up to it, Maikill, perhaps you could attend my hunters to a nearby watering hole and help us capture a Rapke, or Bounder for the feast. It is not that far away."
Maikill HP 38/39, AC17 Saturday April 3rd, 2010 3:36:32 PM
Maikill grabs his axe from his shoulder and holds it ready.
"Yes, I go with you to hunt. It will be great honor."
Chief Barrantadatoda -- DM Jim Saturday April 3rd, 2010 6:25:32 PM
"Ah, very good!" Happy at the prospects of having more food for the feast other than the meager offerings at hand, the chief calls the name of Twomahs, and Kwior to show Maikill to the watering hole where game is aplenty.
Not wanting to abandon his others guests, he invites them to his hut, which is skin to a large drinking hall with open walls--the whole construction of which is made of steelgrass. "Please my friends, sit and have some drinks with me. While we do this, some of my people can wash the seasoning off of Zeoll--as it must be done carefully so as to not spill any water in this area." Bara claps for some helpers to attend to Zeoll and others to serve drinks to his guests. The cups are wooden and very small, but the amber liquer poured into each is one of the finest spirits any has had in the Wold.
Beriothian (Will)-- AC:18/15/13 HP:13/13 Saturday April 3rd, 2010 11:08:07 PM Hello Zeoll. I'm Beriothian of the Galanodel family, and one of the groups rogues. Beiothian joins the group around the table and takes a sip of the amber fluid. This is very good, I need to consider getting some of this to fill my flask with before we leave.
Zeoll and his dog Sunday April 4th, 2010 12:17:59 AM
Zeoll greets Ransy warmly, but there is something funny in the liontaur's face. Maybe he looks embarrassed to meet a paladin? Or ashamed?
"Rransy, a grreat honorr," is what Zeoll says.
His attitude toward the self-declared rogue is more glad. "A rrogue, eh? Well, Beriothian, we all have a bit of the rrogue in us, have we not? I look forrward to testing my skills and knowledge against yourrs in a frriendly game soon."
Zeoll submits to the manfri who are tending him. "Thanks!" he says as he is being cleaned off.
After a moment, Zeoll calls out to the hunters, "Oh wait! Don't hunt my dog!" He whistles, and a wolf-sized dog breaks cover and bounds up, wagging his tail hard. "That's my dog," Zeoll says.
Ransy AC 19/11/18 Hp 19/23 Sunday April 4th, 2010 8:48:47 AM
Ransy notices the funny look in the liontaur's face and thinks he may have embarrassed Zeoll with his stern look. So he answers, after ceasing to detect evil:
Don't mind my stern countenance, I didn't mean to embarrass you. But please tell us, what brings you to these lands? I don't know much about your kind, but I thought the liontaurs stay on their home island, far away.
Xeron AC AC16 HP 12/13 Sunday April 4th, 2010 9:12:15 AM
Xeron takes it all in silently. None of it made any sense to him. He missed the friendly dirty confined of Mud Town. When the man-lion introduce himself, Xeron just nods but stay silent.
Zeoll and his dog d20+8=26 ; Sunday April 4th, 2010 9:36:16 AM
Zeoll smiles. "What brrings me herre? Too many miles, too many yearrs, too many adventurres have brrought me herre, too many to tell at this sitting."
He pauses, hesitating. "But herre is a song I heard in a dream beforre I left my long-ago home, of which you have rreminded me." He sings in a strange tongue, full of rolling Rs and rumbling tones. It must be his native wemic tongue. Perform check 26.
Zeoll seems pleased with his performance. "Ah, my thrroat is in fine forrm today."
"But to answerr yourr question, good Rransy, the firrst lines of that song say, as best I can put it in Common, 'Step on the path frrom the hinterrland -- Follow then wherre it will lead.' My path has led me a long winding way since then."
Ransy AC 19/11/18 Hp 19/23 Sunday April 4th, 2010 1:15:09 PM
Ransy listens in wonder to the marvelous performance and says: astonishing, really, what a voice, what a display of spirit and emotion. In my father's tavern I have heard quite some performances, but this beats most of them. Are all liontaurs so good at music?
Maikill -- DM Jim Monday April 5th, 2010 11:51:12 AM
Hurridly getting underway, the two Manfri hunters guide Maikill toward the nearby watering hole. During the trip they express that according to tradition, the beast must not be cut until the moment of sacrifice, so Maikill must bash the creature, not cut it. --------- Maikill, please make 10 rounds of attacks at -4 to deliver non-lethal damage and post them to me privately.
Bosk - (subbed by Will) Monday April 5th, 2010 9:30:05 PM
Bosk looks around at the immaculately woven buildings in the clearing. This skill of these Manfri is beyond compare. If these huts are woven with the same craft as the steelgrass armor then surely these small huts offer the same protection as a stone castle! Bosk follows the rest of the party into the drinking hall and helps himself to a small pottion of the amber liquor.
Beriothian (Will)-- AC:18/15/13 HP:13/13 Monday April 5th, 2010 9:31:32 PM
Beriothian sits back and sips from his wooden cup. This is delicious, is this distilled from the tall blades of grass the grow along the plain?
Zeoll and his dog Tuesday April 6th, 2010 12:01:30 AM
Zeoll downplays his musical ability. "Thank you, Sirr Rransy, but rreally, I am not verry experrienced nowadays. And no, not all liontaurrs arre barrds, though some arre."
He asks to help with the preparation and delivery of the feast. "I said I would rratherr serrve than be serrved, and I meant it."
The Feast -- DM Jim d6=2 ; d6=6 ; Tuesday April 6th, 2010 12:23:32 PM
I have gone through his world--a life of moon and snow and flowers. - Sharyu, ~1850
After about an hour, Maikill returns to camp with his two Manfri hunters and six unconscious prairie pigs. The sight he see's is...unusual. Most of the group is basically unclothed and they and the Manfri are dancing wildly about the large pit fire. "It happens sometimes when they drink too much of the Pomfrai," says one of Maikill's hunter companions. "Nothing to do about it but join in Master Maikill, we will take care of the pigs." Hauling the pigs away on makeshift grass mats the Manfri had brought with them, Maikill partakes of the amber liquid called Pomfrai and finds it very tasty, but not at all as strong as some drink he has had. However by his third drink, the Wold drops a level, as if he had somehow grown taller--and everything was funny, EVERYTHING.
Prairie pigs roasting on the fire, copious amounts of libation, and a few bumps and bruises later, the group finds that it is morning already and they are dead asleep. When they awake it is almost night time again--they have been away from Grendel and the rest for about 24 hours now.
Maikill HP 38/39, AC17 Tuesday April 6th, 2010 3:20:12 PM
Aghast that the group is dancing naked, in particular the paladin and clerics of the group, Maikill stands with his mouth hanging open.
"I have brought fresh meat." he says to the prancing group. They don't seem to respond much.
He shakes his head and takes the drink offered.
"I only drink a little, not want to leave group without defense."
his vow is quickly gone as he starts to laugh at the antics of those around him. He feasts on pig, and then awakes a day late.
"Sorry, I come back from hunt and you all dance naked by fire. I try and stay on guard, keep watch. Do not know what happened, only had a few drinks."
Maikill gathers his gear and vows yet again to stay sober.
Xeron AC AC16 HP 12/13 Tuesday April 6th, 2010 4:38:56 PM
A splitting headache hurting him, Xeron opens his eyes. He is wearing nothing, has little memory of what happened and is alone. "nothing worse than getting wasted, not remembering anything and waking up alone and naked
He realizes where he is and let a sight go, wishing he was back in Mud Town.
Ransy AC 19/11/18 Hp 19/23 Tuesday April 6th, 2010 4:48:52 PM
Ransy is very embarassed as he wakes up almost naked. If I wanted to make a fool of myself, I should have stayed at my parents' establishment. He quickly puts on his clothing and armor, constantly clearing his throat and saying Ahem
Well, this was certainly entertain, I am certain my folks would have loved it. But now I think it is time to do something serious again. How about returning to where we came from?
Valla AC:(20)16/16/12 HP:6/12 Tuesday April 6th, 2010 5:27:00 PM
Valla awakes after the party; half naked; alone and disoriented...
what happened last night? after getting dressed; he finds everyone; what happened; how long were we out; its nearly sunset again... No no tis is not good. I dont remember what happened; but hopefully we dont hear of ahalf elven manfri running around... Wow... that was some good ale.
Bosk (James) AC: 19/11/18 HP 31 of 31 Spells d20+3=9 ; d20+4=5 ; Tuesday April 6th, 2010 6:21:41 PM
Bosk looks around the clearing as he puts his armor back on and day dreams about what Padre would have said if he had seen them. Checking through his things he looks to see if the manfri skulls had been returned. If not, he will return them to the head manfri.
Bosk will then speak to the manfri and try to get a couple bottles of the amber liquid they drank last night for furure consumption. He will also check into the cost of steelgrass weapons and armor, see if he can sell some of the groups loot, and see if someone can shod a pair of taur shoes on him that he recently found in his bag. If he still has time he will try to learn more about the people and any stories they may have of Grymash.
Being hung over he tries his best to keep eyes and ears open for trouble, but has trouble focusing.
Spot 9 Losten 5
Post-Feast -- DM Jim Tuesday April 6th, 2010 8:22:22 PM
The chief solemnly thanks Bosk for the return of the skulls and when asked about the Pomfrai, Bosk is given a wineskin filled with the stuff. For Steelgrass armor, he is willing to take gold coins, not for their stated worth, but more for their intrinsic beauty since they will melt them down and make jewelry. He is not interested in any of the group loot. -------- ooc: Steelgrass costs double normal armor, so for Bosk, the price is 4x normal cost. It will also take 1 day per 1000gp worth of armor bought to make it.
Zeoll and his dog Tuesday April 6th, 2010 8:50:08 PM
Zeoll -- already pretty much naked after getting the barbecue sauce washed off him -- watches everything with a storyteller's eye. He is curious about the skulls, the beverage, and the armor.
Beriothian (Will)-- AC:18/15/13 HP:13/13 Tuesday April 6th, 2010 9:57:11 PM
Beriothian crawls out from under the table in the drinking hall. He picks up his tunic, which one of the Manfri is using as a blanket, and finishes getting dressed. He wonders for a moment why someone would even use a blanket in such a warm climate, before realizing that the better question is why he was undressed. Accepting a glass of something almost resembling coffee he walks out of the hall into what he feels is an abnormally bright day.
Now that's what I call a celebration. I definitely need to get some of this for my flask!
Beriothian sees the chief and thanks him for their hospitality. Thank you so much for the celebration, it was wonderful. That amber drink you served was very tasty, I would love it if I could have some to take with me on my journey.
Bosk (James) AC: 19/11/18 HP 31 of 31 Spells Wednesday April 7th, 2010 1:54:27 AM
Bosk is disheartened when he hears the price of the steelgrass armor. If only we had been able to sell our stuff before we left Hook City, but even then I would not be able to afford the full plate armor. As the thought of losing what may be his only chance at only chance at obtaining steelgrass armor he gets an idea. Unfortunately, he knows it will cost him his pride and delay getting into the WLA for a while.
Visibly embarrassed at the thought of asking for help, the cleric swallows his pride and asks Valla, Maikill, Xeron if they can loan him 1500gp (500gp each) until they get to Hook CIty and can sell everything they got from the witches. Bosk offers both his share of the treasure and share in the shop as collateral until he can pay them back figuring the twelve items with a magic aura that they got off the witches should be enough for him to pay his debt off quickly.
If the others agree to loan him the money he will buy the steelgrass half-plate armor (2400gp), scythe (72gp), bastard sword (140gp) and a spiked chain (100gp) for a total of 2712gp.
Cesar - HP 13/29, AC 21 Wednesday April 7th, 2010 8:24:34 AM
(OOC: hey people! I'm back! I'll read all the stuff you posted ASAP and post!)
Valla AC:(20)16/16/12 HP:6/12 Wednesday April 7th, 2010 1:31:31 PM
Valla sees the Manfri offering up flasks of the awsome drink and asks for some himself. A tradition is in oder. he says; meaning after certain; meaningful accomplishments.
Seeing and hearing how badly Bosk wants this armor; figuring we wont see the manfri again any tme soon, an we'll be back in Hook City soon enough Valla agrees.
Yes Bosk, your a true friend its seemed. Although, he turns to the Manfri; Would the steelgrass be easier to cast spells in? I may have my own order to place.
Bosk (James) AC: 19/11/18 HP 31 of 31 Spells Wednesday April 7th, 2010 2:11:23 PM
ooc: Arcane spell failure = 10% less.
Maikill HP 38/39, AC17 Wednesday April 7th, 2010 2:39:23 PM
Maikill shakes his head as Bosk asks for money.
"Have money if you want, but metal is strong. Make better armor, help you not get hit. Grass not good idea. Here, take gold. I keep you alive until you pay me back. Hard to do when you wear grass."
Maikill hands over 500 gold to Bosk.
Ransy AC 19/11/18 Hp 19/23 Wednesday April 7th, 2010 4:22:55 PM
Ransy suggests: "If we are going to wait for Bosk's armor, perhaps we can use the time and ask the chief if there is more evil around here which needs to be eradicated. Perhaps we can even earn back some of the money that Bosk is going to spend. I think 2400 gp is a lot of money for a few days' work by these manfri, isn't it?
Ransy asks the chief if he wants some other evil to be vanquished around here.
Post-Feast -- DM Jim Wednesday April 7th, 2010 4:31:54 PM
In response to Beri's request for more Pomfrai, the chief sadly answers that he's given the last to Bosk and it will be some time before they will have some more.
Ransy's offer to eradicate evil is received gratefully, but the chief knows of no other tasks that need to be taken care of right now.
After seeing Bosk wanting to buy his armor, the druid monstrologer asks, "Do you guys plan on staying here while the armor is being fashioned, or return to the druid tree?"
Zeoll and his dog Wednesday April 7th, 2010 8:22:00 PM
Zeoll waits to hear what is said. Fact is, he has not been invited to join up with these folks, although he himself is thinking that if he is with a group, the area will be far less dangerous.
Beriothian (Will)-- AC:18/15/13 HP:13/13 Wednesday April 7th, 2010 9:00:20 PM
Beriothian's jaw drops at the cost of Bosk's request. Of course, when he considers that the taur is well over ten times his size he supposes that armor is a real bargain. As an elf Beri is very attracted to the thought of having an armor made of grass, but it doesn't seem very practical under his circumstances... or his budget. On the other hand, Beri's accuracy has not been up to his own demanding standards, and he really would like to start using a second weapons in battle, which is only going to further hamper his accuracy. He counts out the amount of money required, 80 gold for the pair. Thank you kind chief. Would it be possible to get a pair of rapiers made of steel grass? Brei turns to Bosk Bosk, I have a little over 50 gold left it will help you. As for where we stay while the armor is being fashioned, Grendel and Alistair were probably expecting us back yesterday as it is. If it isn't a problem leaving and coming back we should probably return to the druid tree for the few days we are waiting.
Valla AC:(20)16/16/12 HP:6/12 d20+1=9 ; Wednesday April 7th, 2010 9:03:12 PM
Valla nods to the Manfri chief out of habit when he tells Beri its gone.
If there is nothin to do around here then.... Does anyone remember how to get to the door that put us in the Sargrass? Or would we have to rely on Alistair to get us back? Valla says, in a monotone voice.
Jacob? Would you be able to get us back to the Druid tree, to meet with the Manfri, when the armor is done? That way we could just go to Hook City. Do what we need, and return for the armor.
Diplomacy: 9...
Bosk (James) AC: 19/11/18 HP 31 of 31 Spells Wednesday April 7th, 2010 9:18:54 PM
Bosk is extremely thankful for the generosity and loyalty of his group and after thanking each in turn prays that Gargul will notice their actions and remember them when one day they should meet. When Jacob addresses them the cleric speaks up on behalf of the group. We really have not made any plans as of yet. We did not origionally plan to stay this long, however I am thankful that the group is indulging me with my fascination. I personally would like to stay here and learn more about manfri, but we really should at least speak to Grendel and let her know what is going on and make sure her and Alistair are doing alright with the witches. Zeoll, of you do not have any plans, perhaps you would like to join us? We are currently trying to stop an evil cult in Mudtown, well technically there are two evil cults know. One of them is headed by a mindflayer and I am sure we will need all the help we can get to defeat him.
Regardless of what we decide, I feel that before we go we should speak to the chief and learn more about the witches and their feud to see if we need to take any particular precautions before we let them go. I would feel terrible if we were to free them only to have them hurt these people. None among us is particularly knowledgeable about witches and it forever haunt me if we could have helped the manfri by simply destroying a relic or chalice required for their spells. At the very least we might have enough information to make an informed decision about their fate and learn what the laws of this land are.
After speaking to Jacob Bosk will speak to the chief about their captives, possible feud, and what the group should consider doing with them.
Steelgrass weapons -- DM Jim Wednesday April 7th, 2010 9:23:43 PM
The chief says that he can in fact make the rapiers for Beri, but it will take a day after completing Bosk's armor and weapons. --- ooc: only Alistair and Jacob can use the magical doorway; Jacob is unlikely to want to return to HC, and Alistair, well, he's an old man--how helpful do you think he'll be :)
Captives -- DM Jim d20=12 ; Wednesday April 7th, 2010 9:29:44 PM
When Bosk talks to the chief and tells him of the captive witches, the chief seems fairly indifferent about it--in that, if the group doesn't kill them, his people will.
Cesar - HP 13/29, AC 21 Thursday April 8th, 2010 6:39:20 AM
Cesar is quite after the feast: his face betrays how drunk he was the night before and how unused to it he is.
He simply follows the group around the village, looking around curiously at everything he sees.
"We could stay here until your equipment is finished... although I think Jacob's father would like to receive some news about his son's well-being. Do we have any means of communicating with him? Otherwise we could travel back to his place to give him the good news and then return to retrieve the newly made equipment.."
Ransy AC 19/11/18 Hp 19/23 d20+9=18 ; Thursday April 8th, 2010 8:04:16 AM
Ransy says to the chief: I think there's no need to kill the few witches who have survived, you don't have to fear them. Perhaps they have already fled to their village of birth. If you do catch them, I think a somewhat lighter punishment than death would be appropriate. They seem to have been misled into thinking that by joining the witch coven they were protecting the plains which used to be here. And they thought they should combat you in order to save the druid trees. So their brains have been filled with irrational thoughts, but once they are back in normal society, they'll gradually reject these beliefs.
diplomacy = 18.
Xeron AC AC16 HP 12/13 Thursday April 8th, 2010 9:13:54 AM
Xeron gives the 500gp to Bosk, goes find a spot in the shade and split his time between waiting and drawing stick pictures on the ground.
Chief -- DM Jim Thursday April 8th, 2010 11:59:55 AM
The chief takes into consideration what Ransy has said, but it's almost obvious that he hasn't changed his mind. --- ooc: staying or going, which is it?
Valla AC:(20)16/16/12 HP:6/12 Thursday April 8th, 2010 1:56:37 PM
ooc- going to the druid tree.
Let the Manfri handle the witches fate. Its not ours to decide. Valla speaks up.
He gathers his things, and makes sure everything is in order, ready to head back to the druid tree, to talk to Grendel and Alistar.
Bosk (James) AC: 19/11/18 HP 31 of 31 Spells Thursday April 8th, 2010 2:06:11 PM
ooc: Are we referring to the Druid tree Grendel is at or the tree where Jacob's father is? I am fine with leaving as long as we are sure we will be able to get back to the manfri. If we don't have a guide making a path for us it might be an interesting return journey.
Bosk (James) AC: 19/11/18 HP 31 of 31 Spells d8+1=5 ; d8+1=2 ; d8+1=7 ; d8+1=9 ; d8+1=5 ; Thursday April 8th, 2010 2:35:11 PM
ooc: remember that everyone gets 2-3hp for resting last night...and all day.
As Bosk's hangover clears he is horrified to realize that he slept through his usual prayer time. Immediately he converts his remaining spells to healing spells and heals Valla and Ransy. If he has time he will pray now and heal the rest of the group to full HP. If not he will do so ASAP.
CLW on Ransy = 5 3CmW on Valla =3 CLW on Cesar = 7 CLW= on Cesar = 9 CLW= on Grendel (if we return) =5
Ransy AC 19/11/18 Hp 23/23 Thursday April 8th, 2010 3:13:43 PM
Ransy tries again with the chief: I understand that you're angry with these women, and I am not denying their guilt. It's terrible that your people have been killed and it calls for justice. It's just that the ones we were able to save, were not the leaders of the witch coven. They weren't even able to cast spells, we think. And yes, they deserve to be punished. But why kill them? That only makes matters worse, people calling for revenge, etc. But we think these women can be redeemed, because they have been misled in their thinking. A light punishment may convince them they were wrong. So I call on you to be merciful in your judgment.
To the others, Ransy says: let's go back to Grendel and see what has happened there, the witches and so forth.
Valla AC:(20)16/16/12 HP:6/12 Thursday April 8th, 2010 3:57:58 PM
OOC: Isn't it 1hp/lvl per 8 hours rested? If so, I'd have at least my 6 hp back right Jim? Not needing Bosks CmW's...
you can only get so much rest in a day, unless it's bed rest and that's by the week, so no, you don't get it per 8hrs. DM Jim
Maikill HP 38/39, AC17 Thursday April 8th, 2010 4:33:37 PM
Maikill listens to the conversations about where they should go next and realizes that he can actually add something to the conversation.
"Look!" he says pointing at the setting sun.
"It almost night, you drink too much and sleep all day. Maybe it too late to go now, need to wait until morning when safe? I don't care where we go, but maybe we should check Grendel. She good to us, we not leave her trapped in tree with grass around."
Maikill HP 39/39, AC17 Thursday April 8th, 2010 4:34:12 PM
OOC: fixing header
Jacob -- DM Jim Thursday April 8th, 2010 5:30:59 PM
"If we leave now we can make it back to Alistair and the rest before it gets too dark."
Maikill HP 39/39, AC17 Thursday April 8th, 2010 5:38:48 PM
Maikill shoulders his pack.
"My mistake, thought it take too long. We go now then?"
Bosk (James) AC: 19/11/18 HP 31 of 31 Spells Thursday April 8th, 2010 5:44:08 PM I think that's best. I could not picture being alone with Alistair abd those witches for so long.
Xeron AC AC16 HP 13/13 Thursday April 8th, 2010 7:00:08 PM
Xeron gets up, erases his bad drawing with his foot, breaks his stick and leaves with the group back to the druid tree.
Beriothian (Will)-- AC:18/15/13 HP:13/13 Thursday April 8th, 2010 7:55:25 PM I hope those witches have learned some manners over the last 24 hours. Something tells me that Alistair isn't one to tolerate their behavior for long. Beri ponders for a moment whether if Alistair were to turn them into chickens if it would be cannibalism to eat them.
Zeoll and his dog d20+8=9 ; Thursday April 8th, 2010 10:12:23 PM
Zeoll thinks he understands. The party defeated some witches, who are enemies of the manfri. Left to their own devices, the manfri will eat them or something, and that may be a bit harsh for the crimes the witches have committed.
Zeoll asks, "Arre these witches evil? If so, leave them to the manfrri. If not, set them frree in Hook City, and maybe they can learrn frrom theirr errrorrs. Orr am I missing something?"
To Chief Barrantadatoda, Zeoll says, "You werre rready to eat me, but luckily you saw you werre mistaken in time. It is harrd to uneat a perrson. Maybe you should not eat these witches until you know forr surre who and what they arre."
Diplomacy 9. They all can't be winners!
Chief -- DM Jim Friday April 9th, 2010 12:16:56 AM
Raising an eyebrow to Zeoll's line of questioning, "You don't have to be evil to kill; These witches killed half my village: twenty men, women and children. They deserve nothing less than death."
Valla AC:(20)16/16/12 HP:12/12 Friday April 9th, 2010 1:19:31 AM
Hearing the number of Manfri murders; and the chiefs grim tone; Valla has a chage of heart. these people showed us hospitality they would show a true hero to there people. They deserve nothing less of us. To be true heros to their village.
Bosk, Ransy, I believe we should bring the witches back with us when we come for the armor. It seems the situation here is more than we thought. It also seems only right; given the amount of hospitality and honor the Manfri have shown us. The ones left may not be able to cast spells; or even be full witches, but they contributed to the murder of children!
This hits Vallas heart, being one of few child survivors of his own camp being raided, for evil intentions.
the witches deserve to die...
Zeoll and his dog Friday April 9th, 2010 4:01:21 AM
Zeoll grimaces. "They killed 20 innocents? Then theirr own deaths seem fairr justice to me. How not, good Rransy?"
The liontaur looks to the paladin for moral guidance. "Surrely death to murrderrerrs is fairr. Especially if, as you seem to say, they arre unrrepentant."
Ransy AC 19/11/18 Hp 23/23 Friday April 9th, 2010 5:22:59 AM
Ransy says: You're right as far as justice goes. However, morality reaches its peak if we go beyond retributive justice, beyond an eye for an eye, beyond death for murder, and try to incorporate notions as mercy and redemption. I think these women can be brought to see the wrongness of their ways, as this killing of the Manfri probably wasn't their idea in the first place. They were misled and they should be dealt with mercifully. Consider for example that there is a thirteen-year-old girl among them. Would you kill her?
Cesar - HP 13/29, AC 21 Friday April 9th, 2010 5:55:42 AM "I'm with Ransy here... killing isn't much of a punishment after all, as dead people can't really repent for their actions and who knows? They might worship some dark god of murder and we would just be giving them a free ticket to mureder-heaven... no use in calling a fair trial, but some harsh punishment that will stick in their heads should do the trick. My gran used to whip my butt-cheeks with a fresh reed and believe me: that definitively stuck in my mind! Never stole a biscuit again in my whole life!"
Zeoll and his dog Friday April 9th, 2010 7:16:19 AM
"Ah, Cesarr," says Zeoll, "at last we arre on grround of which I have some perrsonal knowledge. Of courrse the dead can rrepent. They ponderr theirr past lives and rrevisit theirr errorrs. This I know because I myself spent two yearrs in the Lands of Rrest, and bitterrly did I rrue my own stupidity that sent me therre. Indeed, I did rrepent of the foolishness in my hearrt that caused me to die, and I rresolved to act with morre sense when I rreturrned to the living Wold."
"I was blessed to rreturrn in my own body, thrrough the mirracle of a spell that rraised the dead, but let me tell you that I met many souls who werre destined to rreturrn to the Wold as newborrn babes, forrgetting theirr past lives. But even these believed whole-hearrtedly that in meditating on theirr errorrs in the Lands of Rrest, they would find theirr lives imprroved when next they werre rreborrn."
"And let me tell the tale of the Lands of Rrest, forr therre is no "murrderr-heaven" such as you envision. Rratherr, those who honorr the Gods of the Wold arre gatherred to Haven Farr, where contemplation and rreflection are the rrule. Those who honorr the Gods of Testing tend to find theirr way to the Estates of Unrrest, wherre contests and tourrnaments hone the skills that failed you in life, and therre arre challenges frrom which to learrn -- finally, you rrace the Wolves of Memorry, so that you can capturre and masterr the events of yourr prriorr life beforre rreturrning to the Wold."
"Now, to rreturrn to the matterr at hand. Would I kill a 13-yearr-old human, if I found one that was guilty of the murrderr of half my clan? If the child had no sorrrow orr rregrret? Speaking as one who has no family or clan left in this Wold, I would. Merrcy shown to those who arre unrrepentant is seen as weakness, not merrcy, and nothing is gained by it."
Cesar - HP 29/29, AC 21 Friday April 9th, 2010 8:09:49 AM "It's just that it seems... wrong! Killing for revenge or punishment will only breed more hate and hostility. The witches told us that they killed the Manfri because the Grass they brought anguish to the land. The Manfri now want to kill the witches to avenge their victims... who says that those where all the witches in the coven? Maybe some weren't there and they'll decide to massacre more innocents to avenge their fallen sisters? I... I don't know what should be done in these cases. Why can't people just behave themselves and not bother anyone else?!"
Maikill HP 39/39, AC17 Friday April 9th, 2010 10:15:24 AM "Manfri decide. Not us. We not know customs of this land. It what I say before. She not girl either. She age of woman, join witches, prove she not child."
Maikill is ready to go and do what needs to be done.
Farewell and Hello again-- DM Jim Friday April 9th, 2010 1:52:02 PM
Saying their goodbyes to the Manfri and promising to return in a few days time, the group heads out behind Buiwerf and his great ranthom. When questioned how he enjoyed his stay amongst the Manfri, all Buiwerf can say is, "I still haven't found my underpants." --the vision of a small manfri child running around with Buiwerf's underpants on his head springs to mind.
An hour later the group finds itself at the Druid Tree, with Alistair and Grendel still alive. Near Alistair the 13yr old girl is sitting next to him with a smile on her face, it seems her demeanor has changed while the group was gone, so too the older witch that was healed and awakened--the other three witches are still unconscious
Alistair has a wicked grin on his face when he sees the lot of you, "So, dancing... nice." After a moments bout of laughing, he asserts himself and pulls the group over to the side and speaks to them privately, "The two witches there, I've cast spells on them to ensure my safety and that of Grendel, so you may notice they're a bit more amenable to our presence." Pointing up to the tree, wherein Temujin is fast descending to greet Jacob, "If you want to know what the witches were up to, he's the... creature, to ask." Looking to Jacob, "Back to your father's farm, Master Jacob? I've sent him word we found you and you are no worse for wear."
Farewell and Hello again part deux-- DM Jim Friday April 9th, 2010 2:04:11 PM
Thinking about it a bit, Alistair also asks, "What about the witches? Not the little girl, she and Grendel are joining my service, one an apprentice, the other to study at the Star Mage's Guild--oh, maybe I should have let her tell you that. Anyways, I would suggest we take these witches back their village, there I can compel them to tell the truth so your side of the story is told, whereas if we leave them be, the spell will wear off and they'll say whatever they can to save their hides."
Farewell and Hello again part trois-- DM Jim Friday April 9th, 2010 2:05:15 PM
"Oh," Alistair says, pointing to Zeoll, "Who the heck is that?"
Ransy AC 19/11/18 Hp 23/23 Friday April 9th, 2010 3:03:24 PM
Ransy says to Alistair: The dancing was unexpected, enjoyable and a bit embarassing. About the witches: an excellent suggestion, sir. Let's take the witches to their village and make sure the true story is told, including the murder on 20 innocent people. That should make the villagers think. And that is Zeoll, a new friend of ours. I think he'll introduce himself.
Xeron AC AC16 HP 13/13 Friday April 9th, 2010 4:00:01 PM
Xeron looks at Alistair "So the girl is joining your service of her own will or because of the charm spell you cast on her? Not that I really care. I am just curious."
He goes look for a stick and starts drawing again on the ground.
Alistair -- DM Jim Friday April 9th, 2010 4:16:46 PM
"Well, if you really don't care Xeron, I won't really tell you."
Valla AC:(20)16/16/12 HP:12/12 Friday April 9th, 2010 4:19:47 PM
Valla shakes his head at the sight of Alistar warming up to the younger witch. And to think, if he wasn't as grumpy I'd have asked for an apprenticeship myself. Showing respect and awe when we first met. All I got was an old geezer attitude, and a wizard without patience for an apprentice. The way some people work... It amazes me...
I've given my input many times. Yes, my opinion has changed; but still I think these withces, including the young girl, should be delieverd to the Manfri. Without regret for what they've done, it matters not that she wasn't fully aware or mislead on her actions. 20 innocents... That should not go unpunished.
Valla shows no emotion to Alistar taking the two under his wing, nor does he comment on the idea.
Probably best to let it be. Why bring up his attitude toward me; being different from those two. A human wouldn't live long enough to mentor me anyways.
Beriothian (Will)-- AC:18/15/13 HP:13/13 Friday April 9th, 2010 8:22:25 PM
Beriothian reflects on what Alistair has said and decides that becoming an apprentice to Alistair (or his mental slave) is a very fitting punishment, and should the girl not learn the error of her ways it is likely to become a fate much worse than death. I agree with Alistair, let's take the witches back to the village. I would love to hear the truth behind what happened.
Stay or go part deux -- DM Jim Friday April 9th, 2010 9:42:54 PM
ooc: LMK what you plan is, stay here, go to village, whatever. Jacob is probably going to fly home.
Zeoll and his dog Saturday April 10th, 2010 7:20:36 AM
Zeoll introduces himself to any who he has not yet met. "I am a Taurr frrom the farr norrth, frrom the islands that centaurrs, minotaurrs, and liontaurrs call home. I am a singerr and a student of naturre. My name is Zeoll, and I am at yourr serrvice."
Now that he has his gear, you might note that the liontaur wears leather armor, carries a huge wood shield, and has beads and a feather braided into his mane. He speaks with a strong accent. A big dog walks next to him.
Xeron AC AC16 HP 13/13 Saturday April 10th, 2010 8:29:24 AM
Xeron nods at Alistair "Fair enough
Valla AC:(20)16/16/12 HP:12/12 Saturday April 10th, 2010 4:15:47 PM Ok... Valla nods. Its better than nothing...
Future plans -- DM Jim Saturday April 10th, 2010 4:29:54 PM
Guys, give some thought about what you want to do when you get back to Hook City proper. Here's a basic idea of what I think you're going to do:
witches village halfdanes farm return for steelgrass armor return to hook city grendel leaves the group to study at star mages guild Valla looks into tower purchase return to the shop to check on things ..... then things get a little divergent at this point since there are several loose ends, but splitting up would be detrimental to the mortality of the group, so a consensus needs to be made, so think about it now and discuss via email if you like so not to clutter the board. If anyone has any other Loose Ends, they can add them to the Hook City Woldipedia page.
Zeoll and his dog Sunday April 11th, 2010 11:44:44 AM
Zeoll is happy to be along for the ride. Grateful at being saved from the roasting spit, he simply wants to help out as best he can.
Ransy AC 19/11/18 Hp 23/23 Sunday April 11th, 2010 5:07:06 PM
Ransy asks the elder witch: hi there, I am glad that your mood has somewhat improved. I am happy to tell you that we will bring you back to the village. Perhaps you can help us. Your leading witches have worn bracers. Do you know whether these are cursed?
Older witch -- DM Jim Sunday April 11th, 2010 9:28:16 PM
"I really don't know," the older woman says.
Zeoll and his dog Monday April 12th, 2010 12:54:59 AM
"I owe you guys forr saving my life. Herre, let me wearr these items, maybe until afterr the next fight. If they won't come off, they'rre currsed."
Zeoll grins as if he were joking, but he is also serious.
Beriothian (Will)-- AC:18/15/13 HP:13/13 Monday April 12th, 2010 10:53:20 AM I appreciate the offer Zeoll, but it would make more sense to put them on the witch and see if we can take them off. Beri says this with no sign of joking in his voice. They have a rather large debt to repay to us.
Maikill HP 39/39, AC17 Monday April 12th, 2010 2:58:19 PM
Maikill looks to Grendel for ideas on what to do, but it seems she is so caught up in wanting to join the mage's guild that she no longer seems to be the leader as he sees it. Bosk has always been rock steady, so now he turns to him.
"Bosk, you be boss? Decide what we do. I follow you."
Maikill has no desire to be the one who makes decisions.
Ransy AC 19/11/18 Hp 23/23 Monday April 12th, 2010 4:12:46 PM
Ransy says to Beri: if it has a curse on it, that will probably not affect witches, only non-witches. So putting the bracers on a witch doesn't make sense to me. Let Zeoll wear one, please. I admire his courage.
Bosk (James) AC: 19/11/18 HP 31 of 31 Spells Monday April 12th, 2010 5:19:50 PM
Bosk laughs at the conversation about the bracers and gives a mild warning to the group, but will not interfere if the new comer wishes to try out the bracers. That's a brave offer Zeoll. For your sake I just hope they're not cursed with a gender change spell.
Changing the conversation Bosk continues, The manfri have made up their minds and will come after the witches regardless of what we do. One thing which we have not considered is if we return them to the village innocent people might get injured trying to protect the witches. Furthermore, we may just as easily get attacked by the villagers when they learned that we killed or captured half of the villages women. I don't know about you, but even if my wife or daughter did commit such an atrocity I would not be happy to meet their executioner.
I personally think we should return them while there is still daylight and they are still compelled to tell the truth. The villagers deserve to know what happened to the women and if the manfri come they should know why. However I don't think we should expect them to welcome us with open arms or to spend the in their village. We may very well have to either return here or to Jacob's village immediately.
Late evening -- DM Jim Monday April 12th, 2010 5:25:45 PM
The sun is about to set, bringing close another day on the plains.
Beriothian (Will)-- AC:18/15/13 HP:13/13 Monday April 12th, 2010 8:34:01 PM
ooc: do we still have time to return the witches?
Zeoll and his dog Monday April 12th, 2010 10:02:43 PM
Zeoll grins and puts on the bracers.
"You guys make me laugh," he tells his new friends.
Valla AC:(20)16/16/12 HP:12/12 d20+7=15 ; d20+6=16 ; Monday April 12th, 2010 10:37:50 PM
After Zeoll says we make him laugh. If those bracers are Gender cursed, I'll laugh at you The wizard smiles as he looks at the Liontaur.
Return them to the village right now then. So we can still make it back before sunset. Or at least just after. Im not to concerned about the villagers Bosk. If they get angry, we high tail it outta there. If they wish to hear the witches out, we should stay and find out the truth. If they wish to kill the witches after learning the truth; I say we should let them. As far as the bracers go though. I'd say you must wear both of them. Wearing one wouldn't do anything, cursed or not...
Valla then takes a quick look around the area, trying to keep alert to make sure nothing is going to surprise them.
Spot: 15 Listen: 16
Bracers and such -- DM Jim d20+1=5 ; d20+1=15 ; Tuesday April 13th, 2010 2:41:43 AM
Deciding to be of some worth to the group, Zeoll puts on a set of the bracers, almost instantly he feels a light itching come from under them where they contact his flesh, then the Wold begins to go a little topsy-turvy and he's laying facedown in the grass (Fort save 5,fail). Immediately Grendel takes off the bracers and notices a fine purple film coating Zeoll's arms where he had worn the bracers--a film of purple much resembling the poison used by the witches on their daggers. After about a minute, Zeoll returns to the land of the conscious.
Valla, ever viligilant, keeps a watchful eye out for any intruders and see's none. --- ooc: if you leave now, you should reach the village by nightfall.
Cesar - HP 29/29, AC 21 Tuesday April 13th, 2010 5:04:35 AM "The bracers were coated with poison? How absurd! Unless the witch wearing them had some insight on the poison's properties that we do not possess... So we're off to the witches' village in the end? We better get a move on, then, otherwise we'll get there when everyone is asleep!"
Ransy AC 19/11/18 Hp 23/23 Tuesday April 13th, 2010 6:04:02 AM
Ransy begins to carry the unconscious witches to the stretchers and to fasten each of them to one of the strechters. He asks Beri to help carry one of the witches and the others to carry the other two. let's go! We'll get the bracers detoxified in Hook City.
Zeoll and his dog Tuesday April 13th, 2010 6:45:45 AM
"Well, that was interresting!" says Zeoll. "I guess I'm lucky it was not worrse!"
Hse's village -- DM Jim d20=2 ; Tuesday April 13th, 2010 12:17:48 PM
Deciding to make way to the witches village, the group and witches help to transport the unconscious witches to their village via stretchers. The going is laborious as the makeshift stretchers breakdown every now and then and by the time the lights of the village can be seen, night has fallen. Making their way through the grass took some time as Jacob once again got invariably lost, but the sight of solid buildings made of wood in a very large clearing was a welcome sight. What was not welcoming were the body of men, some 20 in number and armed with spears that greeted the group, "Who are you and what is your purpose here?"
Bosk (James) AC: 19/11/18 HP 31 of 31 Spells d20-2=13 ; d20+1=4 ; Tuesday April 13th, 2010 3:09:30 PM
ooc: Are Grendel and Alistair with us? Yes, but you can't rely on NPC's to play the game for you. DM Jim
This is about the welcoming I was expecting. thinks the Taur as he looks around the camp. He is about to address the men, but quickly decides against it. These men are clearly on the defensive. It may be better to let someone a little more diplomatic handle this one. The cleric decides to put off any action until someone else takes the lead. At that time he will try to act more approachable or intimidating depending on the actions of his group.
Ready Actions ====================== Aid Another Diplomacy = 13 Aid Another Intimidation = 4
Ransy AC 19/11/18 Hp 23/23 d20+9=20 ; Tuesday April 13th, 2010 4:00:01 PM
Ransy says (with help from Bosk): "Hello, we come in peace. We are bringing five women to your village, who have been hurt. They originally came from your village, we think, that's why we're bringing them here. They were found in a witch coven. We went there because a friend of ours was kidnapped by the witches and we have freed him, after a fight. I think these women here were misled into joining that coven by lies and false promises. The witch coven has committed terrible crimes and we fear that these women have had a role in those crimes, but not a big role. Therefore, we have saved them after we slew the main witches of the coven. That was the day before yesterday. We have tended to them ever since. We hope you're willing to take them back into your village and take care of the wounded. Two of them are very much alive and they can tell you what happened, if you're willing to listen.."
diplomacy = 20 (22 with Bosk's help).
Maikill HP 39/39, AC17 d20+5=10 ; d20+5=19 ; Tuesday April 13th, 2010 8:05:43 PM
Maikill smiles nervously and tries to do his best not to flaunt his axe, keeping it low and to his back.
"Hi." is the best he can muster. He looks around at the situation he has found himself in.
Why they came to the witches village at nightfall he can't figure, and from the looks of things he may never know.
Listen 10 Spot 19
Beriothian (Will)-- AC:18/15/13 HP:13/13 d20+8=10 ; d3=1 ; d20+8=17 ; Tuesday April 13th, 2010 8:33:58 PM
Beriothian walks in with the group, standing a little behind Bosk and Maikill. He does his best to look friendly, but avoids saying anything to the armed farmers.
Listen = 10 #$%^ buttons moving after the first roll = 3 ;) spot = 17
Xeron AC AC16 HP 13/13 Tuesday April 13th, 2010 9:02:36 PM
Xeron stands there and waits.
Zeoll and his dog d20+8=14 ; Wednesday April 14th, 2010 12:23:33 AM
Zeoll watches, alert to the chance that the people here too will think him a beast and attack.
He listens to Ransy and nods. In answer to the humans, he says, "I am Zeoll, and I have only rrecently met these people. They stood up forr me, howeverr, and my intuition tells me that they arre good-hearrted and strrive to show merrcy and justice to all. So I am glad to vouch forr them, forr what that is worrth."
Aid Another on the Diplomacy check: a 14 gives Ransy a +2.
Hse's village -- DM Jim d20=3 ; Wednesday April 14th, 2010 11:02:39 AM
"Witches?" One of the men blurts out incredously. Seeing Almira amongst the strangers, the villagers call out to her to tell them what is going on and if what Ransy is saying is true. The older witch steps forward and begins to tell her tale, that she and the others joined the witches coven to strike back at the Manfri and they are not ashamed of what they did. It is a sobering tale and many of the men are angry, whether because she and the rest joined the coven or because the group killed a number of their women is unknown. One man steps forward, "I am Hse, the leader of this village, my men and I will need to talk about this at length. You are welcome to stay here tonight under our protection in one of the outlying storage buildings, or you may setup camp in the clearing."
Valla AC:(20)16/16/12 HP:12/12 d20+7=18 ; d20+6=22 ; Wednesday April 14th, 2010 2:09:30 PM
Valla nods as the leader, Hse, and says to the group. I think setting up our own camp in the clearing is the way to go guys.
Looking to Hse he explains himself, Thank you for hospitality; and offer for us to use the buildings. But as you can see, the two Taurs in our group take up a bit of space; we may need two buildings. The clearing will be better for us.
He walks into the village, taking in everything in sight. Especially what the buildings are made of and any designs on the outside of the houses. He also keeps his keen ears alert for any unfamiliar sounds.
Spot: 18 Listen: 22
OOC: James/Bosk; can you still access the Wold on your phone? For some reason, I cannot...
Hse's village:Valla -- DM Jim Wednesday April 14th, 2010 2:13:24 PM
Valla notes nothing out of the ordinary; as is usual, the large hall in the middle of the village is probably where the leader sleeps and also conducts business--in fact, that is where he takes the witches too--all except the 13yr old who wishes to stay by Alistairs side and none in the village seem to object since her mother was one of the witches that the group had killed and she has no father to speak of.
Bosk (James) AC: 19/11/18 HP 31 of 31 Spells d20+3=6 ; d20+3=7 ; d20+4=12 ; Wednesday April 14th, 2010 2:32:45 PM
ooc: Yes, it is working on my phone.
Fearing a surprise attack in the middle of the night, the mighty cleric tries his best to determine if the men of the tribe are upset with the group, the witches or both. Once again he is unable to determine the motives of the foreign people. Looking around the area for danger or an ambush he is blissfully ignorant to his surroundings.
Shaking his head in agreement with Valla and stretching for emphasis the taur agrees with the wizards decision. I believe you are right, the clearing would give Zeoll and myself a little more room to move around. I suggest we make sure to set guards tonight. If Zeoll could be mistaken for a creature of the plains then I don't want a group of them finding us while we sleep.
Maikill HP 39/39, AC17 Wednesday April 14th, 2010 4:48:24 PM
Maikill relaxes as it appears that not only are they not being killed, but that they are offered protection for the night.
He listens to all the talk about guards and where to sleep.
"He give word we stay here under protection. Think that mean we are safe. Maybe we could sleep good instead of watch for attack."
Ransy AC 19/11/18 Hp 23/23 d20+2=7 ; d20+2=19 ; Wednesday April 14th, 2010 4:55:50 PM
Ransy: I think it is better to have a watch just in case something comes flying or blundering from outside. Let's stick with the old watch order, which we used night before last. I have first watch with Valla, if I remember correctly.
watch checks: spot = 7 listen = 19.
Valla AC:(20)16/16/12 HP:12/12 Wednesday April 14th, 2010 6:56:39 PM
Valla nods his head with Ransy, Then lowers his voice so only the group can hear him, while the guards of the village take the witches to the big building.
Watches are certaintly needed. Maikill we are in a strange place, with people we know nothing about. We should never be to comfy. We've upset alot of people in our brief travels it seems.
He takes another quick look around, then calls the group into an irregular huddle, Keep our backs to the bigger building, I dont believe their leader will attack us directly if thats to happen. He points his finger outright, scanning it across the smaller houses dotting the outside of the clearing; IF we are to be attacked by the villagers, it will probably be from the population,
Pulling Ransy aside afterwards, Ransy lets keep alert tonight. I've a bad feeling about this place.
Beriothian (Will)-- AC:18/15/13 HP:13/13 Wednesday April 14th, 2010 8:01:31 PM
Beriothian joins the conversation with Vala and Ransy. I can take the first watch, I can see well in low light and am not particularly sleepy after that long walk.
Maikill HP 39/39, AC17 d20+5=22 ; d20+5=8 ; Wednesday April 14th, 2010 11:14:11 PM "but he say we protected." Maikill says in a low and disappointed voice. "I no want to kill villagers or women. No like kill women, even if they witches. I say before that I kill head witch to scare other witches. I not proud kill women, feel bad now. If they attack, maybe I hit them with side of axe and not kill. Tired of killing people."
Maikill resigns himself to take watch, and will take the watch assigned in the middle of the night.
listen 22 spot 8
Day 10 -- DM Jim d20=14 ; Wednesday April 14th, 2010 11:33:59 PM
The night passes quietly, somewhat. Except for an occasional outburst from the chief's hall, the rest of the night passes uneventfully. The group notices that four of the taller buildings have been used as watchtowers, each holding a few men with bows and lanterns to pierce the dark of night.
In the morning, Hse comes to the group, "It would be wise if you left today. There are some who would seek vengeance for what you've done and I would see them unharmed since they are not skilled warriors such as yourself." Bowing, Hse returns to his hall.
Valla AC:(20)16/16/12 HP:12/12 Thursday April 15th, 2010 12:09:10 AM
Valla wakes with the chiefs request. Doing his studying, he chooses his spells thoughtful this morning. Figuring going through town will take him a few days, maybe He'll have time to scribe, or brew a potion, if he's able to find the right equipment.
Sounds fine with me... Lets get going. Hopefully the Tower hasn't been bought yet... Hook city is our calling; not these exotic grasses...
Spells: Highlight to display spoiler: { 0:Light x2; Resistance; Open/close 1: Mage Armor; Color Spray; Obscuring Mist 2: Invisibility; Scorching Ray
}
Cesar - HP 29/29, AC 21 Thursday April 15th, 2010 3:45:03 AM "I'm sorry if what we did created sentiments of revenge amongst your fellow villagers, but I assure you we didn't have much of a choice...", Cesar answers Hse while packing his stuff, "I would advise you to try and communicate in some way with the Manfri community: they seem a feisty kind of people and I am quite positive they will seek abundant revenge for what the coven did to them. Try and parley with them, maybe take an ox or two as a peace offering... I would hate to find out that a feud broke out between you".
While leaving, Cesar looks longingly back to the village... so like the one where his family lives...
Cesar - HP 29/29, AC 21 d20+2=5 ; Thursday April 15th, 2010 3:45:59 AM
OOC: forgot to post the roll
Diplomacy: 5... not much of a diplomat, is he? XD
Zeoll and his dog Thursday April 15th, 2010 6:17:49 AM
In the night, Zeoll and his dog stand a watch in turn. It would not do to let his new companions think he is a freeloader.
In the morning, he is ambivalent to hear the villagers get a warning about the manfri. "On one hand," he mentions out of earshot of the villagers, "as one who has come this close to a manfrri cookfirre, I am glad that these folk have been warrned. On the otherr hand, given how many manfrri have been slaughterred, it does not seem exactly just forr these witch-followerrs to get off scot-frree."
The liontaur shrugs. "Wherre to, next?"
Xeron AC AC16 HP 13/13 Thursday April 15th, 2010 9:52:44 AM
As the group leaves the village, Xeron whispers to Valla "That was a great waste of our time, wasn't it?"
Maikill HP 39/39, AC17 Thursday April 15th, 2010 11:39:49 AM "We need go back to Manfri village, Bosk has grass skirt being made."
Maikill prepares to move out.
Bosk (James) AC: 19/11/18 HP 31 of 31 Spells Thursday April 15th, 2010 11:48:22 AM Maikill the cleric tries to explain, it is a special magical metal grass. It will be lighter and stronger than your armor. I think you'll like it.
As for our plans, the steelgrass won't be ready for a while yet. I suggest we go back to Jacob's village and speak to his father. Once the steelgrass is complete me may have to leave quickly and I would hate to not have a chance to get to know Jacob's family better. Considering how far they have traveled, we could probably learn alot from them.
Alistair and Jacob -- DM Jim Thursday April 15th, 2010 11:49:10 AM
Speaking to the group, Alistair says, "If you don't mind, Jacob and I will be teleporting back to his father's farm. Buiwerf can take you back there, he knows the way, since it will be several more days until Bosk's armor is ready--and I'm sure Master Halfdane would like to reward you personally."
Steelgrass armor -- DM Jim Thursday April 15th, 2010 2:43:11 PM
ooc: as far as I know, only Bosk is buying it, anyone else?
Maikill HP 39/39, AC17 Thursday April 15th, 2010 3:20:13 PM
ooc: not Maikill, not only doesn't he get it, but I don't think it is worth it for him.
Ransy AC 19/11/18 Hp 23/23 Thursday April 15th, 2010 3:56:56 PM
Ransy tries to detect evil in various directions, trying to cover a large part of the village as they are packing their stuff and leaving, without separating himself from the group. He thinks it strange that the village should support the witch coven and not care about the murders and the kidnappings. So he suspects that there is something more here.
OOC: Ransy doesn't have money yet, so no chance at buying armor.
Ransy -- DM Jim Thursday April 15th, 2010 4:56:50 PM
The paladin stares intently on his surroundings and in the range of his ability, he does note a few persons of evil intent in their hearts in other buildings--but that is nothing out of the usual in any populace.
Valla AC:(20)16/16/12 HP:12/12 Thursday April 15th, 2010 7:38:20 PM
Valla nods and reply's to Xeron, Ya, didn't think we should have came here in the first place... But you don't argue with majority right? I'll be glad when were back in Hook City. Hopefully the Manfri get Bosk's armor made without problems...
To the entire group; Ya, going to Jacob's village is better use of our time I think. Mister Halfdane would probably like a better introduction from us, and get to know his son's saviors a bit better. Maybe we'll enjoy yet another feast in our honor?
OOC: About what time of day will it be once were back to Jacob's Village?
Late afternoon. DM Jim
Beriothian (Will)-- AC:18/15/13 HP:13/13 Thursday April 15th, 2010 8:59:05 PM
Beriothian picks up his backpack and slings it over his shoulder.
Jacob's sounds like a good plan to me as well. Are we about ready to head out?
Zeoll and his dog Thursday April 15th, 2010 9:01:05 PM
Zeoll feels a little bit lost, but agrees that it is time to go see Jacob. "What's the name of his village?" the liontaur asks. OOC joke: Highlight to display spoiler: { And it better not be New Otherton, either!}
Alistair and Jacob -- DM Jim d100=16 ; Thursday April 15th, 2010 9:24:08 PM
Hearing no objections, Alistair invokes a teleport spell, taking Jacob and the young 13yr old witch with him, back to Halfdane's farm.
Buiwerf -- DM Jim Thursday April 15th, 2010 9:25:31 PM
"If you're ready sirs and lady, I'll lead the way." Buiwerf sits astride his great ranthom and when given the okay, starts heading South back to the farm.
Valla AC:(20)16/16/12 HP:12/12 Friday April 16th, 2010 6:27:41 AM
Valla nods to Buiwerf; Lets go then...
He checks his things once more, making sure everything is where its suppose to be, and follows the Ranthom and Buiwerf to Jacob's village.
Xeron AC AC16 HP 13/13 Friday April 16th, 2010 9:13:10 AM
Xeron follow the ranthom walking next to Valla.
=========================================================== OOC: This is my last post until 4/26 as I will be traveling without a computer. Anyone who wants can RP him.
Maikill HP 39/39, AC17 d20+5=20 ; Friday April 16th, 2010 10:56:07 AM
listen 20
Maikill overhears the conversation between Valla and Xeron and smiles. He walks up to them and slaps them on the back.
"I thought they would kill us and we wake up dead. I also not know why we come except bring witches home. Maybe it good we bring women to home, maybe they needed here. No worry about waste time though, time all we have. Need to use up time until we die. This place as good as any, time same everywhere I think."
he walks along behind the ranthom with a spring in his step. He is alive and didn't think he would be this morning. He does cast a glance at the strange lion creature now and then, not sure what to make of it. When caught looking, he glances away and pretends to have not been staring.
Beriothian (Will)-- AC:18/15/13 HP:13/13 Friday April 16th, 2010 11:08:47 AM
Beriothian follows in the great ranthom tracks as the party leaves the farm.
Ransy AC 19/11/18 Hp 23/23 d20+2=6 ; Friday April 16th, 2010 11:33:30 AM
Ransy walks in the back of the group, looking back frequently to see if the villagers who had bad intentions are planning to attack us from behind.
Spot = 6
The Journey Back -- DM Jim d6=2 ; d6=6 ; d6=4 ; d20=19 Friday April 16th, 2010 12:12:43 PM
Hours pass as the oppressive heat beats down on the group making their way back to Halfdane's farm. Still having not taken a bath, thusly traveling with matted down fur, Bosk's fur stands out in tuffs as the dryness of the swaying grasses brushes against him here and there. Zeoll on the other hand, just bathed yesterday by the hands of the Manfri, is a walking puffball--it's uncertain at this point which of the Taur's look worse.
About mid-afternoon the group breaks into the clearing and a horn is sounded to alert the farm's master. Everything looks like it was just a few days ago when the group arrived. The huge druid's tree looms in the center of the large clearing, surrounded by buildings, pens and corrals and workers are going here and there doing their jobs. Master Halfdane and Jacob greet the group and the Halfdane thanks each profusely. He invites the group to stay the day as he has prepared a feast in their honor and would allow them to clean up beforehand if needed in a central bathhouse. "I know you're anxious to get back to Hook City, but I'd like to thank you properly for rescuing my wayward son. What say you?"
Valla AC:16/16/12 HP:12/12 Saturday April 17th, 2010 3:13:08 PM
Valla nudges Xeron in the side with his elbow, Another Feast, he Im sure it'll be nothing like the Manfri's
Valla says to everyone in earshot, We still have a day or so to wait on Bosk's armor. No reason in which we couldn't attend this mans feast, heading to the Manfri village tommorow to collect Bosk's armor.
Valla trails off in thought after speaking, the mysteries of the Druid swirling around his brain.
Why would they 'bond' to trees to keep back the Sargrass, and then Befriend the Manfri. Who are responsible for the Sargrass to begin with!.... Odd..
Bosk (James) AC: 19/11/18 HP 31 of 31 Spells Saturday April 17th, 2010 4:30:17 PM
The Horned Cleric looks down at his matted fur and and realizes just how much he needs to get cleaned up after marching in the hot sun. Thank you Master Halfdane, your are most generous. I cannot tell you how much we look forward to getting cleaned up after our journey. We look forward to this evening and will tell you the details of our adventure then. The minotaur give a polite bow and envisions the feel of clean water and relaxing in the bathhouse as he lets the others say what they wish.
Maikill HP 39/39, AC17 Sunday April 18th, 2010 9:33:19 AM
It is so hot and dry, even Maikill likes the idea of a bath. Besides, it has been a while. How long he can't remember, but a while. Maikill wanders over to the bath house and strips off his armor and clothes. Thinking back, he remembers the proper way to bath that his mother taught him. He does his best to adhere to her advice.
When finished, Maikill puts his clothes back on, which probably negates the bath anyway. His stomach begins to growl, and he looks about for signs of the feast.
Ransy AC 19/11/18 Hp 23/23 Sunday April 18th, 2010 11:04:48 AM
Ransy says to master Halfdane: thank you for organizing this feast and for the bath. I think I'll take a bath too. It never hurts to be clean. We would like to hear some stories about life as it is here on the edge of the Sargrass plain. How do you get the ground free of grass so that you can grow food? What stories do you tell your children at night? We heard that the Manfri worship a great Power instead of the gods. Are you a religious man? Are your workers religious? Do they worship a great Power too?
Valla AC:16/16/12 HP:12/12 Sunday April 18th, 2010 5:03:10 PM
Valla makes his way to the bathouse as well, I could really use this right not... He takes off his clothes and armor and gets on in the hot water.
Soaking in the hot water for a few more minutes than most, it takes Valla a while to bathe. He get out and puts on his only set of extra clothes, throwing the dirty ones in the bottom of his backpack.
To the feast then! he says, clearly starving after all the days excitement.
Beriothian (Will)-- AC:18/15/13 HP:13/13 Sunday April 18th, 2010 7:43:26 PM
Beriothian thanks Master Halfdane for his generosity The climate here is nothing like the cool forests of my home, it will be most refreshing to get cleaned up.. Beri takes a moment to secure his belongings before entering the bathhouse. The water is much cooler than he was expecting, which is a very welcome surprise.
Zeoll and his dog d20+7=11 ; Sunday April 18th, 2010 7:43:51 PM
Zeoll never passes up a chance at a bath.
So it seems this Jacob fellow is a druid? What's the story with this tree? Zeoll will give him the secret druid handshake and offer his respects.
He thinks they should stay for a meal, and if they do, he offers to sing afterwards. If that is okay, he casts Ghost Sound to create the backing instrumental sound and makes a Perform Check of 11.
The Feast -- DM Jim Monday April 19th, 2010 1:23:10 PM
With so many questions, Master Halfdane begs them to be asked later when the feast starts, then talk of what has happened and what the future holds can transpire. After Zeoll gives Jacob the secret handshake, which is returned by a wink from Jacob, the group is lead off by several servants. The group is split into two--ladies to the left, gents to the right. Inside the large bathhouse, which is about 100'x100' in size, there is a large sitting pool with steam rising from it on each side of the seperated area. There are stalls for washing the grime off, with little stools, buckets of hot water, soap and towels. It is indicated your clothes will be washed and your armor cleaned too--this will take several hours, but since the feast won't occur until then, there is no rush.
Hours pass and all the muscle kinks and days of grime are long gone after your long rest in the sitting pools. Your clothes and armor have been throughly cleaned and dried and after you are dressed, you are brought to the main hall. Upon your arrival a cheer is haranged by Master Halfdane himself as he introduces you to his seventy or so workers and family. Sitting at his left is Jacob, though obviously he is not the eldest, then to his right his plain looking wife--who looks to be very strong. Amongst the others are Jacob's five sisters and brothers, all bearing a strong resemblance to Master Halfdane--Jacob the only one who looks like mother. Master Halfdane motions for you to sit at the table of honor and partake of the Rapke and other fare that's laid out before you and the other tables. A plethora of fruits, breads and meats assail the senses and all are pleasing to the palate. The Amber wine you grew to enjoy, nakedly at the Manfri village, is also served here--but it is not as strong nor as intoxicating as the Manfri blend.
Ransy AC 19/11/18 Hp 23/23 Monday April 19th, 2010 5:17:21 PM
As master Halfdane doesn't want to answer his questions, Ransy will speak with the workers during the meal, taking only one sip from the wine, and asking them the same questions he earlier asked of master Halfdane.
Please repost the questions, thanks! DM Jim
Maikill HP 39/39, AC17 Monday April 19th, 2010 5:31:26 PM
Maikill takes his cleaned clothes and holds them to his nose. Sniffing deeply his nose crinkles.
"Not smell like me."
He puts the clothing on and then puts his armor on over it.
"Thank for cleaning clothes. Make me feel like noble man instead of hired fighter."
Maikill then makes his way to the banquet and eats like there isn't another meal in the near future.
Ransy AC 19/11/18 Hp 23/23 Monday April 19th, 2010 5:43:37 PM
Ransy asks of the workers: We would like to hear some stories about life as it is here on the edge of the Sargrass plain. How do you get the ground free of grass so that you can grow food? What stories do you tell your children at night? We heard that the Manfri worship a great Power instead of the gods. Are you religious men? Do you worship a great Power too?
Beriothian (Will)-- AC:18/15/13 HP:13/13 Monday April 19th, 2010 9:17:39 PM
Beriothian sips the amber wine. He is definitely able to enjoy it more when it's not knocking the senses out of him. When there is a lull in the conversation Beri asks his question.
There seems to be a lot going on between the Manfri and that small farming village. Do you happen to know the underlying cause of anger between these two groups?
Valla AC:16/16/12 HP:12/12 Diplomacy: d20+1=2 ; Monday April 19th, 2010 11:53:46 PM
Valla is very thankful for the servants doing his laundry and such. When he sees his leather armor had also been cleaned, he was estatic! Thanking the servants that did this, he tips 3 servants 5gp each.
Sitting at the table, Valla sees these people in a new light. He'd figured these people to be more barbaric. A bit more like the Manfir's manners. Pleased with his hosts, Valla is sure no to interrupt; but does manage to talk to Halfdane himself, Thank you for everything. This is truly an honor; your people are kind and you as well. I'd been wanting to talk to someone in power around this area, and you seem to be for sure! Valla gives the man a complimant. The reason why is something I had noticed under the Druid tree, the one we fought the witches in, a large buried statue. Possibly bigger than the tree itself. Its creation is of master quality it seemed; I'd love to know who carved such a work of art, or anything else I could possibly learn from it...
Valla hesistates, What Im asking is, do you know anything of it.... At all? And, would it be possible to get permission to dig it up?
Zeoll and his dog Tuesday April 20th, 2010 8:10:27 AM
Zeoll listens intently. He is still trying to learn more about his new friends and his host.
Conversations -- DM Jim Tuesday April 20th, 2010 12:11:06 PM
As the feast is underway and many delicacies are eaten, Ransy's queries are answered here and there, but maybe not to his complete satisfaction. When asking about life on the plains, he gets the sense it's pretty boring and very dangerous at the same time. With the tall grasses, it's not safe to wander off--even getting close to the clearings edge can be hazardous. As for the ground, and clearing it, well, they are farmers and they use the same techniques as most farmers do when clearing large plots of land. When Ransy mentions bedtime stories he draws a few strange looks--it's not a question that men usually inquire about. What he is told varies, but it's usually the same theme on what he heard as a child and he finds no revelations in them. Ransy then turns his conversation towards religion and the farmers give him no answer except to say that they worship no one in particular--they seem to be pretty guarded about who they worship, as most people are in the Wold.
Beri contemplates various things and then asks about the dispute between the farming village they came from and the Manfri, to which he is answered that he knows as much as they do and actually it's new news to them.
When Valla asks for permission to dig up the statue from the northern druid's tree, Master Halfdane answers that it's not his right to give it. No one has claimed that land, and more than likely if there is a druid bonded with the tree, it would be him that permission would have to be asked for. At that point Jacob lets the group and others in attendance know that Temujin, who is in the appearance of a Hook City guard, is to undergo druid training and bond with said tree. A round of congratulation are in order and the libations flow freely as the party continues well into the night.
When morning comes, the buzz of flies and chirping of birds rouse the group from their slumber. The farmers have already been at work for an hour or more when the group rises and perform their daily routines. After breakfast, which consists of bounder bacon and prairie bird eggs, the group is rewarded by Master Halfdane for the rescue of his son. "I don't have much to give, ever since Hook City went away, but I hope this will help you in your endeavors." Master Halfdane hands over Jacob's Writ of Passage to the group--having signed all it's rights over to the group. The Mudders know they'll have to go to the Hook City adminstration complex and have it legally transferred over to them after they register themselves at same said building as a Protection Group for Hire. Jacob also thanks the group once again for getting him out of trouble--which from the tales last night, seem to be a recurring thing for him.
Alistair is all ready to transport the group back to the magical doorway and then to Hook City proper when they are ready.
Beriothian (Will)-- AC:18/15/13 HP:13/13 Tuesday April 20th, 2010 9:00:13 PM
ooc: just to check my memory, is the steel grass armor ready today, and the journey to the Manfri and back (assuming no long unforseen delays) well under a full days travel?
It'll be ready in 2 more days. DM Jim
Valla AC:16/16/12 HP:12/12 Tuesday April 20th, 2010 11:02:15 PM
Valls eats until satisfied, which is a surprising amount for his small stature. He thanks Halfdane for the kindness and hospitality. Valla glances at the City Guard when he is brought up to be the one to ask about the statue, but doesn't say anything to the doppleganger. Merely thinks it,
So; can I dig it up? I promise to put all the dirt back, and make the ground level again. I won't sell the statue ethier, its for my personal keeping. A momentum for my travels here. I beg you; if there is a price name it my friend. Although I had figured you wouldn't care for gold.
Seeing Alistair anxious about going back to Hook City; Valla speaks up did you forget about Bosks armor? Is it ready today?
Zeoll and his dog d20+4=17 ; Tuesday April 20th, 2010 11:21:46 PM
Zeoll is very interested in Valla's statue, and goes to look at it if that's okay. Has he heard any tales of this thing? Any idea of its history? Bard Lore 17.
He is less concerned with the writ. Zeoll can't read, and maybe fails to see much value to it.
The statue is back in the witches coven. your Bard lore brings nothing to mind. DM Jim
Bosk (James) AC: 19/11/18 HP 31 of 31 Spells Tuesday April 20th, 2010 11:43:02 PM
ooc: how big is the statue?
The head alone is 10'x10'x10' and it is attached. DM Jim
Alistair -- DM Jim Wednesday April 21st, 2010 3:10:21 AM
Alistair squints his eyes at Valla's accusation, "No, I didn't forget, I merely stated that I was ready to take you back when you were ready. Hmpf."
Ransy AC 19/11/18 Hp 23/23 Wednesday April 21st, 2010 6:18:00 AM
Ransy asks master Halfdane, after thanking him for the feast: "Is there something heroic we can do while we are waiting for the Manfri to finish their work on Bosk's armour? For example, are there brigands, robbers, or other criminals which need to be caught?
Zeoll and his dog Wednesday April 21st, 2010 7:21:34 AM
My young frriends," says Zeoll, "always so eagerr and full of enerrgy. Why don't we just spend a day or two in rreflection and rrest until the weapons and arrmorr is rready?"
[OOC: LOL! we can just let the time go by in a flash. No worries.]
Ransy AC 19/11/18 Hp 23/23 Wednesday April 21st, 2010 7:37:48 AM
If there is nothing heroic to be done, Ransy will offer Valla to teach him how to fight with a longsword.
Bosk (James) AC: 19/11/18 HP 31 of 31 Spells Wednesday April 21st, 2010 10:05:02 AM
The cleric sits back in his chair. The feel of clean cloths and a full stomache put him almost completely at ease.
Master Halfdane, thank you for your hospitality. There is no better feeling than that of a full belly and drinking with friends. I think I speak for everyone when I say if you ever have need of our services feel free to call upon us.
Maikill HP 39/39, AC17 Wednesday April 21st, 2010 10:13:57 AM
Maikill listens and comes to the realization that they will likely be waiting a day or two for Bosk's grass clothes.
"I rest, here in shade. Rest best weapon."
looking at Ransy he shakes his head.
"Why you look for trouble. Sit down, good and evil still here tomorrow. We fight later."
ooc: Maikill is willing to rest here until the armor is ready, fast forward if you want.
Fast forward -- DM Jim Wednesday April 21st, 2010 1:05:59 PM
ooc: I can move us a couple days forward and all the way to Hook City if that's agreeable to everyone.
Bosk (James) AC: 19/11/18 HP 31 of 31 Spells Wednesday April 21st, 2010 5:48:45 PM
I am ok with that
Maikill HP 39/39, AC17 Wednesday April 21st, 2010 5:50:21 PM
let's do it
Valla AC:16/16/12 HP:12/12 Wednesday April 21st, 2010 6:13:28 PM
Fine with me as well;
Valla nods to Ransy; taking the paladin up on the fighting lessons. I have a longsword, thats the first part right? Valla will spend the next few days sparring and learning from Ransy, and speaking with Temujin, if he's still around, about digging up the statue at a later date.
OOC: I hope Temujin doesn't have any objections to Valla coming to dig up the statue at one point in time... It would be a great statue to put outside the tower. Maybe eventually a triggered animated object spell cast upon it, TOWER GUARDIAN!
Zeoll and his dog Wednesday April 21st, 2010 7:28:27 PM
Zeoll is glad to have some time to get to know his new friends. He makes a point of it to sit and converse with each in turn.
OOC: If anyone wants to chat with Zeoll in character, that would be great. We could even go to the Giggling Ghost to chat so as not to slow down the game. Or we can just read each others' PC sheets and take it as a given! :-)
Beriothian (Will)-- AC:18/15/13 HP:13/13 Wednesday April 21st, 2010 8:07:22 PM Well, if there is nothing that needs our attention for the next few days I see no reason not to take it easy while we wait on our equipment.
Cesar - HP 29/29, AC 21 Thursday April 22nd, 2010 3:27:28 AM
OOC.
Sorry for the absence, but I was sick at home and I just didn't have the strength to go on the computer!
I will read the old posts and post ASAP!
Cesar - HP 29/29, AC 21 Thursday April 22nd, 2010 3:34:42 AM
OOC.
Fastforward good for me and Cesar didn't have anything in particular to do except washing and resting.
Ransy AC 19/11/18 Hp 23/23 Thursday April 22nd, 2010 10:10:49 AM
As should be apparent, Ransy will teach Valla swordplay during the next two days. having a sword is by no means the most important thing; you'd better practice with a wooden sword, cause you might hurt yourself. Now pay attention, look at my feet, because footwork is also very important.
OOC: fastforward.
Back to Hook City -- DM Jim d100=66 ; d100=11 ; d6=4 ; Thursday April 22nd, 2010 12:56:44 PM
Sweep away the pile of ashes into autumn waters. - Rosen, 1743
The next few days are spent leisurely by the group as they await Bosks armor being made by the Manfri. Time slips all too quickly for some as the day comes and farewells are made. The group was well cared for by their host during their stay and enjoyed much food and drink, not to mention daily baths, before setting off again. Temujin seemed truly happy too--perhaps not having to automatically read the thoughts of so many people on the verge of committing some crime against another in Mudtown had something to do with it. As a parting gift, since he was staying behind, he gives Valla the okay to return sometime in the future for the buried statue and also a slip of paper which has the last known location where Temujin had seen Vellinius.
This time instead of using a great ranthom, the group is teleported by Alistair to the Manfri village he had studied during his scrying of the group--to make sure they weren't being eaten by the Manfri during their visit. Popping in suddenly, a hue and cry is raised, but soon quells down when it's recognized that Bosk has returned. Alistair opens the portable hole he carried with him to let in air for the those who had to travel inside it because of the limitations of the spell. Soon Bosk was fitted for the armor and weapons, but it seemed a long time for those in the portable hole. After payment and many thanks, including another wineskin of Pomfrai given to Bosk, the group teleports back to the river where the hidden magical door resides.
Alistair at this point opens the portable hole for everyone to climb out, then gathers it back up again and stuffs it into a pocket--much like a handkerchief. Casting a simple locate objects spell, Alistair locates the gold coin he had buried in the ground and stands on top of it. At the edge of the sargrass plains, where tall grass once met the outer walls of South Hook City, there only lay a river unknown to any here. At the edge of it began to glow the faint outlines of a rune inscribed door as Alistair incanted a long series of magical syllables unknown to any in the group. In short time a solid door appeared and Alistair opened it to reveal the lower levels of the Hook City Docks. To either side of the door was riverbank and above was sky, so to see the door from this side was strange to say the least. Ushering everyone inside, Alistair was the last to enter the small dark room and then closed the door behind him. Magically locking the door against any unauthorized use, Alistair then cast a simple light spell to lead the group up through the myriad of humid and musty stairs and small antechambers of the docks forgotten lower levels. Ending at the ladder leading up, the old mage was first up to unlock the trap door that opened into the small wooden building that disguised the true nature of what it held inside. Once everyone was up the ladder, and Alistair locked it behind him, he unlocked the front door to the building and escorted everyone outside where they stood upon the docks of South Hook.
Looking out upon the endless ocean to the east, the old mage took in a deep breath and smiled. "Good to be home." Turning to the rest, "This is where I leave you. I thank you for helping Jacob and his family and I hope you were rewarded sufficiently." Motioning for his new apprentice and for Grendel to join him, Alistair said one more farewell before heading West toward North Hook. His new apprentice turned her face to the group and stuck out her tongue, then gleefully joined her master. Grendel only gave one look back, smiled, then followed after Alistair at a quickend pace.
XP Awards -- DM Jim Thursday April 22nd, 2010 1:07:24 PM
The module is finished and here is the current XP awards from 3/15 to 4/21.
Xeron - 500xp Zeoll - 200xp Bosk - 600xp Maikill - 600xp Cesar - 500xp Valla - 600xp Beri - 600xp Ransy - 600xp
Maikill HP 39/39, AC17 Thursday April 22nd, 2010 1:52:38 PM
Maikill looks Bosk up and down as he dons his new armor.
"You pay gold for that? Next fight, you stay behind me. I protect you. They no hurt me, I have metal shirt."
Maikill follows along as they make the journey into Hook City. He looks around a bit nervously and when Grendel says goodbye a tear comes to his eye. He hugs the half-orc and wishes her well in her new journey.
"I liked her." he says as Grendel disappears from view.
"What we do now? I need to visit uncle soon, explain to him that it not nice to hurt women. I can do that myself, no need help explaining." he looks to Ransy and smiles.
Bosk (James) AC: 19/11/18 HP 31 of 31 Spells Thursday April 22nd, 2010 3:23:14 PM
After donning his new armor and weapons the Cleric is amazed at how light they are and his increased flexibility. Fumbling with the bastard sword for a second he is quickly able to tell that it is a quality weapon and sighs as he realizes that it will not be of much use to him until he joins the WLA and can get them to train him with the proper technique.
As Grendel leaves The Horned Cleric says his good byes and wonders to himself whether she left the Masterwork Skillet in the shop or brought it with her. As the Wizard and his two companions begin to walk out of sight he turns to address the group.
I suggest we start by all heading over to adminstration complex and have the Writ of Passage legally transferred over to us after we register ourselves as a Protection Group for Hire.
When we're done I plan to head over to to the Catacombs to sell everything we have collected. I believe we can get the items identified there and they will just subtract the cost from the sale value, unless anyone in our group has the ability to identify them. If you want I can let you know what (if any) magical ability the items have and you can decide if you want to keep any rather than sell them. Although it won't fit me, I would hate to sell the mithral armor and prefer it if one of our group kept it.
ooc:Can items be repaired at the catacombs or must it be done before bringing them to the catacombs?
Alistair fixed the breastplate during your downtime, but he didn't bring any attention to that fact. DM Jim
Also, Does Master Halfdane / Jacob's Writ of Passage to the group allow future access to Hook City when ever we desire?
Yes, unless you have cargo. DM Jim
Valla AC:16/16/12 HP:12/12 Thursday April 22nd, 2010 5:11:16 PM
Valla nods to Bosk in his new and shiny armor as well, Lookin good there buddy, hopefully that special paste holds up...
Valla is also all for going to get registered and the Writ of Passage changed over lawfully. After which he plans to accompany the group to the catacombs, eager to hear about the magical items and what they do.
If at any point their trip takes them by the tower, he will stop, and find someone to talk to about it.
Ransy AC 19/11/18 Hp 23/23 Thursday April 22nd, 2010 5:31:23 PM
Ransy is a little taken aback by Maikill's remark. yeah, best work on your own family stuff, and not get me involved.
Ransy also says he wants to get the Writ of Passage registered in our name. If nobody else wants to use the mithril armor, Ransy could use it instead of his banded mail to move more silently or to be able to jump and climb.
Writ of Passage -- DM Jim Thursday April 22nd, 2010 5:38:59 PM
Heading to the Administration complex, the group spends about three hours going from line to line to finally get their Free Company registered. "What is the name of your group?" the clerk asks.
Bosk (James) AC: 19/11/18 HP 31 of 31 Spells Thursday April 22nd, 2010 6:04:33 PM
Crap, the cleric think to himself. Iron Butterflies he thinks. No, wait. Beri suggested that and no one liked it. Maikill liked Iron.....
Catacombs -- DM Jim Thursday April 22nd, 2010 7:54:52 PM
ooc: The Catacombs is available and you can buy and sell there now, but your character does not receive anything until it's approved by me (they will tell you this after your sale is complete). Also, items identified at the Catacombs are free if you sell the item to them. If you keep an identified item, you have to pay 100gp to them for each item identified.
Beriothian (Will)-- AC:18/15/13 HP:13/13 Thursday April 22nd, 2010 10:54:26 PM
The group seems to once again be in discussion about a team name. I suppose we need to decide this now. Anybody come up with some good names while we were relaxing at Jacob's?
Beriothian hands Bosk his old rapier to sell on his visit to the catacombs. I hope the new owner of this fine weapon has better luck with it then I did.
ooc: Just want to make sure that I picked up my rapiers when we were with the Manfri.
Yes, please remember, You and James, to account for the price of said armor and weapons on your sheets--x2 normal cost for you, x4 for Bosk. DM Jim
Valla AC:16/16/12 HP:12/12 Thursday April 22nd, 2010 11:20:33 PM Iron Justice Valla suggests.; Justice Team; The Silver Shields....
The elf shurgs his shoulders.... Whats wrong with Hookers?
Zeoll and his dog Thursday April 22nd, 2010 11:35:58 PM
Zeoll gawks with great interest at all the magical moving and scene shifting the group is doing. "And you guys arre rreally prretty new to all this stuff, as I underrstand it?" he asks. "At the height of ourr powerrs, my old grroup took to sea as often as not."
He looks with bemused tolerance as the smaller races fiddle with their bits of paper and writs and such. At first he does not understand the need for a group name. "Arre we legends, that we need epic names to be rrecited in tales of ourr grreat deeds?" he asks, gently poking fun. But then the light dawns. "Oh, it is a thing that is needed forr rregulations and ledgerrs and rrecorrds." He grins to soften the contempt in his voice. "Heavens forrfend we should not follow the rrules and rregulations!"
"Well, then," he says, "Let us add laughterr and light to the dull lives of the bureaucrrats with a lovely name such as one of these: The Perrsonal Prronouns, or maybe 3Y87%de, or possibly Farr And Away The Most Highly Skilled And Fantastically Rregarrded Grroup Of Experrienced Specialists In The Field Of Prrotection, or even what may be my perrsonal favorrite, Luke, Sly, and Flat-top.
He looks down at his faithful hound. "I put Luke firrst, so you should be happy."
The dog wags his tail.
Bosk (James) AC: 19/11/18 HP 31 of 31 Spells Thursday April 22nd, 2010 11:48:11 PM I like The Oathbound or Iron Justice.
Beriothian (Will)-- AC:18/15/13 HP:13/13 Friday April 23rd, 2010 12:43:10 AM Hookers sounds too bland, how about the Iron Hookers...err Iron Hook.
ooc: I updated the spent gold the day I handed it to the Manfri ;)
Cesar - HP 29/29, AC 21 Friday April 23rd, 2010 3:43:48 AM "What's wrong with Hookers?", Cesar asks with a plain air of innocence in his voice, "I like the sound of Iron, but Iron Hook does sound a little too much like a band of butchers and meat dealers. Why not Iron Adventurers?"
Ransy AC 19/11/18 Hp 23/23 Friday April 23rd, 2010 6:33:00 AM An excellent idea, Cesar. I would make it "Iron Adventurers of Justice" Ransy says. where can we find someone to detoxify the bracers?
Zeoll and his dog Friday April 23rd, 2010 7:03:57 AM
Zeoll smiles. "I like the Justice Adventurrerrs of Irron."
He pauses. "Orr even betterr, "Just Adventurrerrs of Irrony."
The Clerk -- DM Jim Friday April 23rd, 2010 11:47:31 AM
Tapping his fingers while he waits for the group to give him a name, he interrupts, "If you don't have a name, then you can just wait over there and get back in line when you're set. I really do have other people I can help right now." Another wait in line could mean hours wasted.
The Catacombs -- DM Jim Friday April 23rd, 2010 12:04:10 PM
Just a note, group purchases/sales should NOT be mixed in with individual purchases/sales.
Valla AC:16/16/12 HP:12/12 Friday April 23rd, 2010 12:25:26 PM Justice League. Valla chuckles, ignoring the clerk.
Honestly I like Adventurers of Justice. We have surly done a bit of adventureing, all of us making it to Hook City from some other place in the Wold. And surly we are of Justice. Me Bosk and Xeron protected a halfling, who we thought innocent, but really wasn't. Jumped to protect him without thought or care we did. Iron Adventurers of Justice isn't bad ethier.
Bosk (James) AC: 19/11/18 HP 31 of 31 Spells Friday April 23rd, 2010 12:26:27 PM
ooc:The items have been identified in the catacombs, total value 37,629.9gp. Please let me know if you want any of the items.
Bosk (James) AC: 19/11/18 HP 31 of 31 Spells Friday April 23rd, 2010 12:28:50 PM
I will go with Adventures of Justice. Also, I forgot to mention that there are two fate items (the wickedly curved daggers) in the loot.
Splitting loot -- DM Jim Friday April 23rd, 2010 12:36:27 PM
Just a reminder, I feel its best that all loot is split equally amongst those that participated in the gathering of said loot. Paying back the members of the group if you want to keep something is important because it's just not roleplaying, it can become personal if one player thinks another player is cheating people so their character can advance faster, and with the Catacombs available to you now, you'll probably need every copper piece to buy those fancy magical weapons.
I have a character in Mithril Order and I built a spreadsheet for those cases where we got loot and someone wanted to keep part of it as their share. It is located here: Mithril Order Loot Breakdown
Take a look at it and perhaps build a spreadsheet for your group.
Also, ocassionally I look at character sheets to make sure they are updated. If you haven't updated your sheets in a while (looking at Bosk...) you need to get to it asap, especially after any Catacombs visit. If it's not on your sheet soon after I give you your first warning (consider this a warning everyone), then you're going to get robbed and won't need to put it on your sheet afterall.
Clerk Jameson -- DM Jim Friday April 23rd, 2010 4:43:05 PM
Seeing that the group wasn't paying him any mind, the clerk sighed and then suggested, "How about the Fluffy Bunnies of Doom? Or maybe Doom Bunnies? I like bunnies--they taste like chicken, but I like chicken too. How about Tasty Bunnies Who Taste Like Chicken? Or just Tasty Bunnies? You know what else I like? Ending the day and relaxing on my roof, taking in the sun and the perfect weather. Sigh."
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