Mak(JamesM)(111/111)|AC:38AO/30/20T/--FF|CMD 35|Rapier +1|23/-/-/-/-|(AG,KN,*HY,WN,PS,WF,WS,AD)**|1d6+13+2d6(Evil)(15)x2)) Monday May 15th, 2023 4:56:12 PM "Epic for sure, exactly not like this water. I bet Rolth already has a song. You see Kiwina jumped on top of it and weighted it down, then Wil used this really long glove....I'd have done something, but from experience I don't mess with flying tiger, lions, and bears...um centaurs."
I'd leave right now, but I'd just get lost."
Temp DM SteveK Monday Post Monday May 15th, 2023 5:37:12 PM
Ooc: Friends, apologies on only an Ooc post. Mark is on vacation and Jeremy had to leave the Wold suddenly. Im gonna take this weeks posts. Reading madly.
Would really help if all Players do a summation post on what they think they have done in Dirt City and what do they want to do next.
As ACDM, I approved the module, so should be easy for me to slide into the story once I know what is happening. I won’t be able to re-create exactly the ambiance or NPCs, so please forgive any slight personality changes to the fact of a new DM and not anything nefarious.
Temp-DM SteveK
Falco Ambersier (Ryan M) Status: Protection from Energy (F+E)+ SoFaith | 84/84 HP | | AC 19(24) (T15/F15) | Channel (5d6) 5/7 DC18 | Monday May 15th, 2023 5:51:59 PM
Falco take a moment to think about all they have done since arriving. Eat chicken at a bar that specializes in halfling dishes. Go back to the same bar with a prisoner after killing a Beholder. Eating more of the chicken at various points. He mumbles "We should get more chicken."
______________________________ CURRENT SPELLS: 5th - 2+1 - Breath of Life (D) / XFlame Strike DC20X / Heal 4th - 3+1 - Cure Critical (D) / Protection from Energy (3/3) 3rd - 4+1 - Cure Serious (D) / Bestow Curse / Dispel Magic / Blindness Deafness DC18 (0/2) 2nd- 5+1 - XCure Moderate (D)X / Lesser Restoration / Resist Energy (2/2) / Silence DC17 (2/2) 1st- 6+1 - Cure Light Wounds (D) / Bless / Endure Elements (2/2) / Shield of Faith (1/2) / Comprehend Languages C - Detect Magic / Light / Mending / Purify Food and Drink
Kiwina (Steve M) 131/131 HP | Current AC:22 or 26 vs AoO | HeP: 2 | Status: awake ! Swim 60' Monday May 15th, 2023 7:39:49 PM
Kiwina shakes his head at Falco's suggestion. He does not enjoy Dirt City, and would just as soon get on with finding Nevras Canthil and following up on his connection with the dragon.
Ayotnom Ogini Hugh C 87/87 | AC : 25; Touch 19; Flat 19 CMD 28(30 vs Trip, Grapple or Disarm) Monday May 15th, 2023 10:52:39 PM
Ayotnom is okay with the plans to get more chicken.
(OOC: Ayotnom was effectively ineffectual in the fight with the beholder as he hung back and the passwall was temporarily blocked so he didn't really join the fight till late. When the party split up he was able to trip up the person following them and they took a guest as they went to the Buttered Ram to discuss the next move. The party bribed their guest 100 gold to keep them out of the report Ayotnom is now with the group to locate Mak and it seems like they found Drola)
Tsak Rezar (Damien) AC22(22) (T15/F14) 112/113 HP| Falchion +4 2D4+3|Crossbow1 1D8+1 Status: Tuesday May 16th, 2023 12:04:49 AM Well the chicken and beers were nice but that place was in teeth territory right near the warehouse with the dead beholder, might be best if we don't go there for a while. The Buttered Ram is the halfling friendly place we've eaten at twice (really good food) and where we most recently left Grif - the guy who followed us after the fight at the warehouse when we killed the beholder. We killed the monster that because Drola here asked nicely and, as Rolth pointed out, offered a reward including info on Nevris Canthil. Nevris is somehow linked to the necromancer who was associated with the chromatic dragon we killed back in the Taur Isles. After the party left Grif we got split and Mak here spent several hours scoping out the environs of this meeting to make sure it was safe (OK he got lost and we had to come find him but alls well that ends well). So now here we are, debriefing with Drola and hoping her information will allow us to find this Canthil guy so we can investigate who's pulling his strings.
Exhausted by his long speech Tsak slumps against the nearest wall and waits to see what will happen next. Esmerelda sits at his feet, leaning into his leg. She stares a the halfling who is dressed as a child. The gaze isn't predatory, but might be a little unnerving as the cat is about the same size as the girl.
Rolth Niheow (BatMark) (112/114) HP | AC: 20; Touch: 13; CMD: 29 Tuesday May 16th, 2023 6:44:44 AM
Rolth opens his mouth to speak, but shuts it in surprise as Tsak emits an unusually long, detailed, and accurate summary of our (mis)adventures in Dirt City. Rolth instead reflects on how poor the Eight Petaled Rose is at this subterfuge stuff. Suggesting to go back for chicken in Teeth territory, taking the spy Grif back to the Buttered Ram where we had a measure of safehaven, getting tangled up in House politics that we barely understand, following the madman Wil's lead in engaging with local factions, the list goes on and on. We did at least disguise and rename our ship to the Gilded Lily before entering the harbor, so that is something.
Rewards for the Petals. (Temp DM SteveK) Tuesday May 16th, 2023 7:33:23 AM
Drola listens and watches as the Petals provide stories and proof. She smiles at Ayotnom’s startlement, and sets him straight. Drola is indeed a Halfling, only one of her friends at the doorway is a halfling pretending to be a child. (Sense Motive DC20 Highlight to display spoiler: { Drola’s eyes narrow at the name ‘Grif’: she has heard the moniker before! } )
”Sounds like you did well, and as promised, here is the 10,000 gold and a pair of Boots of Flying as well. The Teeth are a bad House and need to be taken down a peg or two. Weapons Running, Kidnapping, Smuggling Heart-Seeds… Nothing is too bad for them. “
“Oh, and I promised something else too, eh? What was it, what was it? Oh, yes, your mysterious name, Neveras Canthil, eh? He is currently working with the House of Darts. That House operates with some secrecy, so it has been difficult to find out exactly where he lives. But I have a map to what we think is his house.”
The map she lays out is a sketch that goes to an “X” in Dartville, not far from where the Petals are now in Keyhole.
“You should know that we don’t know much about Nevras. We think Nevras is human, but we’re not sure. We do know that he is a taxidermist of no mean skill. Many that have sought him out have gone missing. That’s why people usually broker deals with Neveras through the House of Darts, and they take a cut from payment for his work. His work? Usually it seems someone wants a trophy animal preserved, maybe a mantacore or a owlbear - we’ve heard he’s done such creatures. Sometimes, someone wants a favored pet stuffed. Rumors are he’s even preserved someone’s wife.
“Tell you what, report back to me about who or what Neveras is, and we’ll see you have a suitable reward. And if he should die in the process of your investigation, well, we wouldn’t shed any tears knowing that the House of Darts may be damaged in the process. And as usual, we’ll deny any involvement with you if things go sideways. But I’m sure it won’t come to pass for such capable adventurers as yourselves.”. She glances pointedly at Mak’s battle-damaged clothing, all but announcing to the Wold what the team has recently been doing…
She waits for the inevitable questions.
Mak(JamesM)(111/111)|AC:38AO/30/20T/--FF|CMD 35|Rapier +1|23/-/-/-/-|(AG,KN,*HY,WN,PS,WF,WS,AD)**|1d6+13+2d6(Evil)(15)x2)) Tuesday May 16th, 2023 8:12:35 AM
Mak thought about the events of the past few days. Let's see, they'd come here to find this Nevras fellow, actually contacted Drola here, and one thing led to another and they ended up on a Tooth Warehouse with this Beholder thing. After Elyas slew it in that flashy fashion only he was capable of, they left only to pick up a tail. Through means of intimidation and coercion they brought the tooth agent to the Buttering Ram. There Mak slipped out with the intention of not getting lost and failed miserably. It seemed the city and Mak's skill at navigating the streets made it impossible for him to get from point A to B. Mak had decided not to go anywhere without an escort.
So, while everyone spoke to Drola about the Tooths and Keys and Darts Mak picked bits of cauterized flesh from the frayed or melted edges of his leggings. Maybe he should have kept that coin from his performance outside Keytower. He did pay special attention to the mention of Heart Seeds.
"So you wouldn't happen to know where these Heart Seeds are being kept, would you?" Mak asked innocently, but with murderous intent.
At any rate it would be dark before they left here and getting back to the Gilded Lily at night was job not for him. In fact, someone might need to hold his hand.
Tsak Rezar (Damien) AC22(22) (T15/F14) 112/113 HP| Falchion +4 2D4+3|Crossbow1 1D8+1 Status: Tuesday May 16th, 2023 8:31:35 AM
Sure, thinks Tsak, lets have another house chasing us around the city, one just isn't enough.
Do we want to go and have a recce of the area on the map or do we need to go rest a bit and leave it til tomorrow? Tsak asks as he looks around at the petals. Tsak has lost track of time but it seems they've spent most of the day tracking down Mak. Surely they should lie low for a bit before sticking their heads back up and putting another target on themselves...
Elyas (Ben A.) (82/92 HP | AC: 19; Touch:14; Flat: 16; CMD:15) | Status: mage armor d20+12=26 ; Tuesday May 16th, 2023 9:17:18 AM We already have one House on us after we broke in and turned their new ally into a really big paperweight. Maybe we go slower now and try to keep from getting more houses mad at us at the same time. We could do a real casual survey today but i think we should get some sleep and make a plan before we go in. And I still need to examine the other ring from the beholder. And fix Mak's tights!
To Drola Elyas says "thank you for the information! and for sticking to your end of the bargain. Not every house would be so forthcoming. We will return once more when we know more about Nevras. taxidermy definitely seems like a good cover for a necromancer.
One thing caught Elyas' attention during the debrief (Sense motive = 26) Do you know this man who was following us? Griff? What can you tell us about him?
[OOC: I think the group covered the plot of the module so far. We came looking for information about this guy who we think was working with the dragon siblings to create undead monsters near the Taur Islands. We were offered information in exchange for finding out what a rival house was up to. We met a sketchy guy in a dark alley who told us he saw a beholder go into that warehouse, so we did some recon and research on what a DnD monster was doing in the Wold.
We reconned the warehouse, then moved in while Drola's people distracted the guards. We entered with a passwall and fought a beholder. Elyas turned it to stone and the party took several eye stalks as proof of what we found, along with the magical items the monster had. we scattered and worked our way tot he docks, but picked up a tail. we captured him and convinced him (with words and money) to not tell the Teeth about who was responsible until we had time to get out of here. If he does bring heat down on us we'll advertise to anyone who will listen that the Teeth were working with an evil floating eyeball.
Then we lost Mak for a bit, found him, and gave our report to Drola.
Elyas has identified most of the magical items that were on the Beholder, but Mak had a third ring from it that Elyas hasn't looked over yet. the ones we know are a Ring of Blinking, a ring version of a cloak of resistance, and a headband of chraisma.
Wilford Grimly (HP:106/106- AC: 26; Touch: 15; Flat: 27; CMD: 23) d20+10=17 ; Tuesday May 16th, 2023 9:26:29 AM
"No! No! Absolutely not the House of Darts... " Wil shouts as he approaches. "I will not do anything with the House of Darts... I will not go there... I did not hear what you said," He adds putting his fingers in his ears. Wil takes a moment to settle everything in his head, he paces the floor and then speaks in a controlled tone. "Your information is wrong. The House of Dart is not involved in this? They can not be."
In a completely different voice, "They have done this before Wilford. Conspiracies are their specialty." "This is not the time or place," Wil whispers back. He is then quiet and continues to pace.
Mak(JamesM)(111/111)|AC:38AO/30/20T/--FF|CMD 35|Rapier +1|23/-/-/-/-|(AG,KN,*HY,WN,PS,WF,WS,AD)**|1d6+13+2d6(Evil)(15)x2)) Tuesday May 16th, 2023 12:41:34 PM "Maybe we should align ourselves with the Tide and form the House of Petals and run all these other houses out of town. They all seem corrupt to me if they are letting heart seeds exist." Mak added.
Note to self...get checked for ingested heart seeds, or however these things propagate. He'd only ever seen the results, not the process.
Rolth Niheow (BatMark) (112/114) HP | AC: 20; Touch: 13; CMD: 29 d20+20=32 ; Tuesday May 16th, 2023 6:33:53 PM
Rolth catches Drola's apparent familiarity with Griff, and watches carefully for additional insights as she answers Elyas' question about him and gives us this new mission. Rolth opines, "Let's go back to the ship to rest and recuperate. There is no hurry that we know of to go find Canthil tonight, and we are somewhat depleted from our earlier escapades. We might be looking for trouble yet, but it might find us."
(Sense Motive = 32)
Kiwina (Steve M) 131/131 HP | Current AC:22 or 26 vs AoO | HeP: 2 | Status: awake ! Swim 60' d20+13=28 ; Tuesday May 16th, 2023 7:15:06 PM
(Sense motive = 28)
Kiwina considers asking about the local entrance to the Catacombs in order to find some sort of disguise. But he gives up on the notion as he tries to figure out who he would disguise himself as, or how likely everyone else would be to do the same. He'll worry about more mundane preparations with the others later, when he can ask Wil about the Darts without the Keys around.
"Fine, Rolth. Rest before another day it is."
Ayotnom Ogini Hugh C 87/87 | AC : 25; Touch 19; Flat 19 CMD 28(30 vs Trip, Grapple or Disarm) Tuesday May 16th, 2023 8:36:43 PM
Ayotnom says, "So this guy is a taxidermist, eh? How does that fit in with that book that brought us here in the first place? I agree we need to go back to the ship and regroup, maybe do some brainstorming before we go after this guy."
Falco Ambersier (Ryan M) Status: Protection from Energy (F+E)+ SoFaith | 84/84 HP | | AC 19(24) (T15/F15) | Channel (5d6) 5/7 DC18 | Tuesday May 16th, 2023 8:43:48 PM "Don't love the idea of getting taxidermized. Lets make sure I don't fall prisoner or something, ok?"
Falco is joking, mostly... mostly.
______________________________ CURRENT SPELLS: 5th - 2+1 - Breath of Life (D) / XFlame Strike DC20X / Heal 4th - 3+1 - Cure Critical (D) / Protection from Energy (3/3) 3rd - 4+1 - Cure Serious (D) / Bestow Curse / Dispel Magic / Blindness Deafness DC18 (0/2) 2nd- 5+1 - XCure Moderate (D)X / Lesser Restoration / Resist Energy (2/2) / Silence DC17 (2/2) 1st- 6+1 - Cure Light Wounds (D) / Bless / Endure Elements (2/2) / Shield of Faith (1/2) / Comprehend Languages C - Detect Magic / Light / Mending / Purify Food and Drink
Tsak Rezar (Damien) AC22(22) (T15/F14) 112/113 HP| Falchion +4 2D4+3|Crossbow1 1D8+1 Status: Wednesday May 17th, 2023 6:45:33 AM
Tsak skritches Esmerelda between the ears and stage whispers to her You heard him Ezzy, if things look bad you can geek the mage. Don't leave so much as a feather behind Esmerelda's luminous green eyes look squarely at Falco and her tail twitches slightly.
Tsak is talking in jest, but it's hard to tell whether his feline friend got the joke.
Talking with Nevras (Temp DM SteveK) Wednesday May 17th, 2023 7:33:26 AM
The heroes know that dusk was falling by the time they started their conversation with Drola: it will be dark soon, and many of the Petals suggest to rest at the Gilded Lily (fix battle damage, identify a ring, food, and rest) before checking out the place Navras Canthil 'might' live. (Know Geography DC 15 Highlight to display spoiler: {Dirt City Above becomes a much more dangerous place at night.}
Drola doesn't seem to be in much hurry, answering questions as they are asked. She shrugs at Mak's question. "The Heart-Seed smuggling is only a rumor, but one that I believe. I could ferret this out for you if the price is right."
"The Houses always vie with one another, but usually secretively. Things like what you fought and this Nevras person are potential catalysts that could upset the balance, and keeping Dirt City from open warfare is of benefit to the House of Keys. And the Prince of Thieves. There is nothing you can do in Dirt City without offending at least one House and befriending another. Maybe after 'talking' to Nevras, your best plan would be to leave the City of Thieves for a while. Lay low."
Nevras shrugs off Elys' praise. "A bargain is a bargain. If we failed to pay on every contract, it would be bad for business! As for Griff, what can you pay for me to tell you about him? Kiwina gets the feeling this will be the response on his wondering where are the Catacombs, too.
Wilford shouts and mumbles, Falco and Tsak make jokes, and Mak suggests cleaning out Dirt City with The Tide. None elicit a response from Nevras. ..........
The Halfling stands and brushes off her vest. Clearly, the meeting is over unless the heroes have a last minute question or coordination.
Elyas (Ben A.) (82/92 HP | AC: 19; Touch:14; Flat: 16; CMD:15) | Status: mage armor Wednesday May 17th, 2023 1:22:12 PM
Elyas stands as well, slapping his thigh and saying welp, guess we should head out
He is of the opinion that it would be better to just get back to the ship for the night and not linger. as we have seen, our group stands out quite a bit, and a stealthy recon of Nevras might just give us away. better to come back tomorrow with a better plan of action and a fully rested party
Wilford Grimly (HP:106/106- AC: 26; Touch: 15; Flat: 27; CMD: 23) Wednesday May 17th, 2023 5:01:56 PM
"I need to think about this Dart connection," Wil says. "I think a night off would be good or maybe a night at the tavern, would be better? ... but would that resolve my issue with Dart.. ugh."
Falco Ambersier (Ryan M) Status: Protection from Energy (F+E)+ SoFaith | 84/84 HP | | AC 19(24) (T15/F15) | Channel (5d6) 5/7 DC18 | Wednesday May 17th, 2023 5:42:51 PM
Falco is happy for a nights rest after the rather unusual day.
______________________________ CURRENT SPELLS: 5th - 2+1 - Breath of Life (D) / XFlame Strike DC20X / Heal 4th - 3+1 - Cure Critical (D) / Protection from Energy (3/3) 3rd - 4+1 - Cure Serious (D) / Bestow Curse / Dispel Magic / Blindness Deafness DC18 (0/2) 2nd- 5+1 - XCure Moderate (D)X / Lesser Restoration / Resist Energy (2/2) / Silence DC17 (2/2) 1st- 6+1 - Cure Light Wounds (D) / Bless / Endure Elements (2/2) / Shield of Faith (1/2) / Comprehend Languages C - Detect Magic / Light / Mending / Purify Food and Drink
Rolth Niheow (BatMark) (112/114) HP | AC: 20; Touch: 13; CMD: 29 d20+4=9 ; d20+17=22 ; Wednesday May 17th, 2023 6:40:45 PM
Rolth is glad that the Petals agreed to rest up on the ship rather than strike out for Canthil tonight. He will watch and listen carefully as we head back to the ship, what with this being a city of thieves and reprobates.
(Perception = 22)
Kiwina (Steve M) 131/131 HP | Current AC:22 or 26 vs AoO | HeP: 2 | Status: awake ! Swim 60' Wednesday May 17th, 2023 7:00:34 PM Maybe we can ask Nevras about preserving a beholder, Kiwina thinks. Once they get back to the ship, he wonders about what sort of defenses the homes around the city must have. That's something Wil might be able to explain.
Ayotnom Ogini Hugh C 87/87 | AC : 25; Touch 19; Flat 19 CMD 28(30 vs Trip, Grapple or Disarm) Wednesday May 17th, 2023 9:17:09 PM
Ayotnom says, "Wait, wouldn't a taxidermist be a good cover for a necromancer? I mean they both need carcasses to do what they do right? I mean heck if this guy has been around for that long maybe he is undead himself right?"
Walking in Dirt City near Nightfall (Temp DM SteveK) Thursday May 18th, 2023 7:14:58 AM
With no objections and no last-minute questions for Nevras, the two parties go their separate ways. Nevras and her team slip into the growing darkness, leaving the Petals to find their own way.
Purplish light still bathed the streets in a last vision among the growing shadows. The area of Dirt City known as KeyHole is quite a distance from the harbor where the heroes’ ship made berth. The quickest way would be to cut through Dartville and then the Backstab Quarter. Or they could retrace their steps past the Temple of Wardd and Arena, then through the Full Moon Market and Moontown. With the Tide’s writ in force in Moontown, that is probably safer, if longer…
Or maybe a different way. But it is clear that the heroes will need to decide on a plan, for Dirt City itself becomes an obstacle at night!
Tsak can't think of any questions, so he gently pries Esmerelda off his leg and prepares to head with the rest of the Petals back to the ship.
On the walk back Tsak takes point. His head is on a swivel has he checks to see that no-one is following them (perception). He suspects that no opportunists would see an opportunity in 8 well-armed companions, but is aware that they do stand out and may have attracted unwanted attention with their recent exploits.
Mak(JamesM)(111/111)|AC:38AO/30/20T/--FF|CMD 35|Rapier +1|23/-/-/-/-|(AG,KN,*HY,WN,PS,WF,WS,AD)**|1d6+13+2d6(Evil)(15)x2)) Thursday May 18th, 2023 8:27:21 AM
Mak stayed close to the others, but paused long enough to don his goblin seal of light. If they were accosted he'd be able to activate it so that he could see around him. Otherwise he trusted that the others knew how to navigate the city without getting lost.
Elyas (Ben A.) (82/92 HP | AC: 19; Touch:14; Flat: 16; CMD:15) | Status: mage armor d20+14=21 ; Thursday May 18th, 2023 9:40:52 AM
[ooc: just so that it doesn't get confusing later: the woman we are talking to just now is Drola, Nevras is the alleged necromancer that we are going to try to find next. we have not spoken to him at all yet.]
Elyas takes up his normal position in the center of the group and keeps an eye out for danger. Perception= 21
Teleportation would be a good option if the group wasn't so big! But after dealing with a Beholder, it is unlikely that anything between them and their ship would cause too much trouble for a group like the Petals.
Wilford Grimly (HP:106/106- AC: 26; Touch: 15; Flat: 27; CMD: 23) d20+9=23 ; d20+13=16 ; Thursday May 18th, 2023 10:07:23 AM
(Local - Know: 23) Wil joins Mak and offers advice on moving through the city using his knowledge of the area. The voices and his actions seem to be calmer than usual. (Perception: 16)
Rolth Niheow (BatMark) (112/114) HP | AC: 20; Touch: 13; CMD: 29 d20+17=22 ; Thursday May 18th, 2023 6:16:43 PM
Rolth recommends taking the longer but safer path through Moontown. He too will keep sharp eyes and ears out for trouble on the way back to the ship.
(Perception = 22)
Ayotnom Ogini Hugh C 87/87 | AC : 25; Touch 19; Flat 19 CMD 28(30 vs Trip, Grapple or Disarm) d20+18=22 ; Thursday May 18th, 2023 9:17:06 PM
Ayotnom stays towards the rear and keeps and eye out for trouble (Perception: 22)
Kiwina (Steve M) 131/131 HP | Current AC:22 or 26 vs AoO | HeP: 2 | Status: awake ! Swim 60' d20+20=25 ; Thursday May 18th, 2023 9:39:49 PM
Kiwina is watchful as well (or intends to be, perception = 25).
He steers wide of the Buttering Ram if they head back through Moontown.
Dirt City Night Life (Temp DM SteveK) Friday May 19th, 2023 8:38:52 AM
OOC: Ooops!! Yes, the Halfling was Drola Slipfoot, and the heroes and she were speaking about the taxidermist (necromancer?) Neveras. Thank you, all, for not getting confused with my last post! :-) ...............
With Rolth recommending the longer but safer path through Moontown, and having no dissenting votes, the Petals leave Drola's meeting area and retrace their steps past the Temple of Wardd and Arena, then through the Full Moon Market and Moontown. Tsak is at point, then Kiwina to help steer them past the Buttering Ram, then Elyas and Rolth, then Mak and Wil, with Ayotnom as rear guard.
The forum around the Temple of Wardd, normally full of beggars and other people seeking luck, is empty, only purposeful movement occasionally in the shadows and well away from the large, heavily-armed group. Walking by the Arena is equally uneventful, the crowds gone, the noise abated, and anyone about steers clear of the Petals.
Full Moon Market, however, is another story. There are no torches, no goods in the stalls, but there are a dozen or more groups: stealthily moving, talking low, or watching the other groups come and go from the market. One such group is noisier than the rest; a circle of cloaked figures pushing, slapping, and punching a ragged and dirty human about. Tsak, Elyas, Rolth, Ayotnom, and Kiwina can hear words above the general low chortles and slaps. - "not safe for a Grubber at night, Nikki" - "watch out, you might get hurt!" - "shoulda got back to yer hole, ya Grubber"
Just as the group becomes aware of the one scene, the Petals are confronted by a second group consisting of four dwarves. One is clad in studded leather armor, and the others seem to be guards wearing plate mail. No other group gets near the Petals and the dwarves.
Perception DC 20:Highlight to display spoiler: {You also notice dwarven two crossbowmen on nearby rooftops looking your way.} Perception DC 30:Highlight to display spoiler: {You see two humans in hiding behind you.} Perception DC 40:Highlight to display spoiler: {You spot two more people carefully watching you from nearby doorways.}
The four do not draw weapons, and one (unarmed) steps forward. ”Greetings Petals of the Eight Petaled Rose. I just want a moment of your time. I am Harroc with the House of Knives. It has come to our attention that you seek information in our fair city. Perhaps we can get you what you need? But tell me, why are you here and what do you seek?”
Kiwina (Steve M) 131/131 HP | Current AC:22 or 26 vs AoO | HeP: 2 | Status: awake ! Swim 60' d20+20=34 ; Friday May 19th, 2023 9:49:14 AM
Seeing crossbowmen on the rooftops and a pair of men behind them, Kiwina figures this is an ambush. Not knowing yet whether the group will negotiate, fight, or flee, Kiwina contents himself with readying a spell (wind wall) to cast if the crossbowmen start to shoot.
Kiwina (Steve M) 131/131 HP | Current AC:22 or 26 vs AoO | HeP: 2 | Status: awake ! Swim 60' Friday May 19th, 2023 9:49:59 AM Oops. . . Perception roll was 34.
Falco Ambersier (Ryan M) Status: Protection from Energy (F+E)+ SoFaith | 84/84 HP | | AC 19(24) (T15/F15) | Channel (5d6) 5/7 DC18 | d20+18=32 ; Friday May 19th, 2023 9:52:07 AM
{Perception: 32}
Falco looks around quickly noticing the crossbow men and the humans behind them. He clicks his tongue and give a little wave then looks at directly at the crossbow men on the roof but not mentioning them.
"Greetings! It is always good to have a friendly welcome. Those two behind us with you as well my good dwarf?"
______________________________ CURRENT SPELLS: 5th - 2+1 - Breath of Life (D) / XFlame Strike DC20X / Heal 4th - 3+1 - Cure Critical (D) / Protection from Energy (3/3) 3rd - 4+1 - Cure Serious (D) / Bestow Curse / Dispel Magic / Blindness Deafness DC18 (0/2) 2nd- 5+1 - XCure Moderate (D)X / Lesser Restoration / Resist Energy (2/2) / Silence DC17 (2/2) 1st- 6+1 - Cure Light Wounds (D) / Bless / Endure Elements (2/2) / Shield of Faith (1/2) / Comprehend Languages C - Detect Magic / Light / Mending / Purify Food and Drink
Mak(JamesM)(111/111)|AC:38AO/30/20T/--FF|CMD 35|Rapier +1|23/-/-/-/-|(AG,KN,*HY,WN,PS,WF,WS,AD)**|1d6+13+2d6(Evil)(15)x2)) d20+17=30 ; Friday May 19th, 2023 10:44:03 AM
Mak noted the crossbowmen and the humans in the darkness, but paused when they were addressed by name. Rolth liked to throw that name about, so it was no wonder they knew.
"Another house." Mak grumped quietly to Wil. "I wonder what these guys want?"
Mak stepped forward. "No thanks, we have everything we need, right mates?." he replied without confirming they were or were not the Eight Petaled Rose. "We are here because as embarrassing as it is, I ventured into the city and got lost. My friends here found me and we are heading to our beds."
Elyas (Ben A.) (82/92 HP | AC: 19; Touch:14; Flat: 16; CMD:15) | Status: mage armor d20+14=34 ; Friday May 19th, 2023 2:30:26 PM
Perception = 34
Elyas also spots the archers and the hiding humans behind the group.
"I know nothing in this town comes for free, so what is it that you are wanting from us? You offer information but then say you don't know what information we are seeking. How do you know you even have anything we need?"
Wilford Grimly (HP:106/106- AC: 26; Touch: 15; Flat: 27; CMD: 23) d20+13=32 ; d20+11=16 ; Friday May 19th, 2023 4:42:22 PM
"Oh my gosh, the Knives, such big fans," Wil says suddenly while breaking formation and greeting the two hiding behind the group. "You have a pen, can I have an autograph." He says as he attempts to drag one of the men out into the open. Not hostile-like.. cajolingly. "Maybe a knife or is it Ka-nife? (Diplomacy: 16)(Attempt to make the cajoling easier.. not sure if this is good or ok.. lol) "Why don't you join us over here," he says trying to maneuver him closer to the Petals. With this action, it's possible he did not hear the other Knive lead.
Rolth Niheow (BatMark) (112/114) HP | AC: 20; Touch: 13; CMD: 29 d20+17=18 ; Friday May 19th, 2023 5:42:32 PM
Rolth blinks, having not noticed these fellows very well. He thinks that Mak and Elyas have made a good opening gambits, so he waits to see the results. He tries to look competent but not immediately threatening in the meantime.
(Perception = 18)
Tsak Rezar (Damien) AC22(22) (T15/F14) 112/113 HP| Falchion +4 2D4+3|Crossbow1 1D8+1 Status: d20+17=19 ; d20+22=27 ; Friday May 19th, 2023 10:39:02 PM
(Perception vs spoiler=19 nothing to see here)
Annoyed by the group of bullies who are tormenting the grubber a distracted Tsak re-focusses his attention on the four dwarves in front of him. Dwarves, with their oily words, empty promises and stupidly hard biscuits. The full grown ranger is suddenly cast back to that little half-orc who was stolen from his mother and forced to live as a slave for dwarven pirates.
Tsak is vaguely aware of other Petals talking and preparing spells. Good. He's going to concentrate on this self-important fellow in front of him, and if things go sideways this bloke will be the first to find out just what happens to smarmy dwarves when little half-orcs get all growed up and angry (Intimidation=27).
Esmerelda, sensing Tsak's unease, flicks her tail in annoyance. Her hackles rise and the already large cat seems to grow as she too focusses her gaze on the leather clad dwarf.
Ayotnom Ogini Hugh C 87/87 | AC : 25; Touch 19; Flat 19 CMD 28(30 vs Trip, Grapple or Disarm) d20+18=35 ; Sunday May 21st, 2023 11:35:34 PM
Ayotnom says, "With all these Houses running about I'm surprised 4 of them haven't decided to join together and become a Hotel...How does that even make sense?"
He asks the knives, "Are either those humans hiding behind us or Dwarves with crossbows on the roof with you?"
Dirt City Maneuvers (Temp DM SteveK) d20+17=25 ; d20+18=30 ; d20+17=27 ; Monday May 22nd, 2023 7:27:40 AM
Confronted by the dwarf directly, the Petals react in various ways depending on their insight and personality. - Kiwina readies a wind wall spell. - Falco gives greetings and calls out the two lurkers behind the heroes. - Mak grumps about Another House, and then gives both a very specific and generalized answer at the same time. - Elyas provides his own observation and counter-offer without disclosing anything. - Wilford turns to the two men hiding in the shadows and attempts to … well, nobody is quite sure whether he is trying to de-fuse or just con-fuse the situation! - Rolth waits to see the results from Mak and Elyas. - Tsak is annoyed by the group of bullies, and isn’t overly fond of the dwarves in front of him either. He attempts to stare intimidatingly at the lead dwarf. - Ayotnom makes a joke, and calls out both the humans and the dwarf crossbowmen.
…………….
As Wilford approaches the two men with supposed words of admiration, they back off, keeping a 30’ distance between themselves and the rear-most member of the Petals. Wilford can’t get within hands reach, and they both appear to not believe a word he is saying (Sense Motive 30). How far does Wil want to pursue them?
Tsak’s stare makes Harroc squirm uncomfortably (25 vs 27, Harroc is Intimidated), but gamely musters answers to the other heroes’ questions. ”Ah, yes, well, yes. The men and dwarves are all mine. You see, we know your powerful reputation, and I just wanted some insurance."
"But," Harroc drives gamely on, "Getting lost in Dirt City is dangerous, and strangers often need protection. The House of Knives patrols the common streets of Dirt City and provides this protection, and we would be happy to provide additional protection to your very lovely ship, too.”
“Come, come! Everyone needs something. All we are doing here is determining what it is you need and at what price. I’m sure adventurers such as yourselves have often strong-armed people who desperately need your services to get the best bargain. The House of Knives has our own informants and keeps aware of the comings and goings in our beloved city.“
“Any large city has its factions. Sometimes it is rival merchant houses like Rum, sometimes rival clerical temples like Plateau City, sometimes smarmy politicians like Floating City. I’ve even heard there are factions along racial lines in the Taur Isles. I find it astonishing that you would think Dirt City is any different?”
(Sense Motive DC 20 Highlight to display spoiler: { Harroc is looking to get 'protection money' from the heroes; either for themselves or for their ship.}
Wilford Only Highlight to display spoiler: { Wil knows that businesses who did NOT pay the Knives 'protection money' tend to be damaged more often then not. Whether the Knives do it themselves or just announce which businesses are free to rob is up for debate.}
(Sense Motive DC 27 Highlight to display spoiler: { The hero gets the insight that Harroc isn’t looking to fight, but is ready if a fight breaks out. He and his team are seeking to see if they can get any advantage in the situation of the Eight Petaled Rose visiting Dirt City. }
Elyas (Ben A.) (82/92 HP | AC: 19; Touch:14; Flat: 16; CMD:15) | Status: mage armor d20+12=22 ; Monday May 22nd, 2023 9:20:43 AM
Elyas sighs. He's seen this kind of interaction before in his days living under the care of a con man. (sense motive = 22)
"really? You went through all this trouble, with the snipers on the roof and all for a protection racket? Very original. I don't believe we will be needing your services in that area however. gods willing we will not be in town for much longer, and anyone who tries messing with our ship will find it really not worth the trouble. Whatever you might do to a ship not under your protection can't be worse than the monsters we have fought off of her in the past
Elyas remembers the fight against the school of Galvo. whatever they would face from a crime family here couldn't be worse than that, right? He does think maybe it would be prudent to set an alarm spell on the ship before setting out in the morning, just in case they need to teleport back to handle some ruffians.
"I do believe we have everything we need at the moment. if you had come to us a little earlier we might have purchased what we needed from you, but I do believe we have what we need from other parties. Better luck next time an adventuring troupe happens through your town, eh? you have a card or something? maybe we can ask you for help next time we need something
Wilford Grimly (HP:106/106- AC: 26; Touch: 15; Flat: 27; CMD: 23) d20+10=23 ; Monday May 22nd, 2023 9:21:26 AM
Wil stops pursuing the two in the back. He realizes this issue may be about protection. "We can't offer protection to the residents in this city," he says directly from the back of the group. "We are mere visitors. Even I, do not live in this city anymore. We cannot guarantee protection if we are not here. Honestly, we are only in need of information. We have no fear of a house of bullies, to borrow my friend Tsaks words." "Listen, I know how this city works. I know how the House of Knives terrorizes the Grubbers to fill the pockets of the House." Wil begins to get animated. "Take... " he pauses. "We are only after information on someone named, Neveras. Give us that information and we will be on our way."
Falco Ambersier (Ryan M) Status: Protection from Energy (F+E)+ SoFaith | 84/84 HP | | AC 19(24) (T15/F15) | Channel (5d6) 5/7 DC18 | d20+13=20 ; Monday May 22nd, 2023 10:38:03 AM
{Sense Motive: 20}
Falco laughs out loud when they offer to protect the ship shaking his head. Why would they make themselves the first for us to blame if something happens to our ship? They must be use to dealing with merchants who cant defend themselves, unless there is far more to these chugs they it would apper.
______________________________ CURRENT SPELLS: 5th - 2+1 - Breath of Life (D) / XFlame Strike DC20X / Heal 4th - 3+1 - Cure Critical (D) / Protection from Energy (3/3) 3rd - 4+1 - Cure Serious (D) / Bestow Curse / Dispel Magic / Blindness Deafness DC18 (0/2) 2nd- 5+1 - XCure Moderate (D)X / Lesser Restoration / Resist Energy (2/2) / Silence DC17 (2/2) 1st- 6+1 - Cure Light Wounds (D) / Bless / Endure Elements (2/2) / Shield of Faith (1/2) / Comprehend Languages C - Detect Magic / Light / Mending / Purify Food and Drink
Mak(JamesM)(111/111)|AC:38AO/30/20T/--FF|CMD 35|Rapier +1|23/-/-/-/-|(AG,KN,*HY,WN,PS,WF,WS,AD)**|1d6+13+2d6(Evil)(15)x2)) d20+9=15 ; Monday May 22nd, 2023 10:38:19 AM
Mak listened and decided he'd had enough. "Harroc was it? Yes. Well. Let me assure you that if anything does happen to our ship, even by accident. I, along with our very accomplished wizard here, will track YOU down and exact our punishment upon YOU. I don't care if Darts, Knives, Keys, Daggers, or Dogs are responsible, YOU will pay. You follow me? Do you get what I'm saying? Let me be clear here. If our ship doesn't stay in the pristine condition in which we arrived, I'm going to sort you out with my blade. Now you can go about protecting whatever it is you think needs protecting, or we can just get you sorted now." Mak said as his rapier magically appeared in his hand.
He'd done it now, hopefully his friends had his back.
OOC: Intimidation +9, Roll 15. Meh.
Rolth Niheow (BatMark) (112/114) HP | AC: 20; Touch: 13; CMD: 29 d20+16=27 ; Monday May 22nd, 2023 7:57:53 PM
Rolth is as disappointed as Elyas at these hooligans' antics, and as angry as Mak. "This is a shakedown? Really? You do know that wemics are not a Noble race anymore, right? That means I can eat you with no consequences for the afterlife. If you are lucky, I will do it after my rapier-wielding colleague has already killed you. If you are unlucky, I won't be that patient. So you gotta ask yourself, 'Do I feel lucky?' Well, do you, punk? I think you and your boys should leave right now, and not return to our sight."
He tries not to wince when Wil reveals part of our actual interest in town. At least he mispronounced the name, and provided no last name or context. We can speak of it later, in private, perhaps.
(Sense motive = autosuccess vs DC 20 Intimidate = 27)
Kiwina (Steve M) 131/131 HP | Current AC:22 or 26 vs AoO | HeP: 2 | Status: awake ! Swim 60' d20+13=17 ; Monday May 22nd, 2023 10:10:57 PM
Kiwina is annoyed at the implied threat to the Rose and misses any other meaning.
Ayotnom Ogini Hugh C 87/87 | AC : 25; Touch 19; Flat 19 CMD 28(30 vs Trip, Grapple or Disarm) d20+17=27 ; Monday May 22nd, 2023 10:35:22 PM
Sense Motive: 27
Ayotnom says, "Yes we Taurs do have factions along racial lines, but we are actually trying to do as Imod commanded and mend the rift between our peoples and come together for the good of all. It would seem your houses aren't necessarily as evolved. It would also seem that two things are true. One, you are seeking protection money from us and two you aren't necessarily looking for a fight but are ready if a fight breaks out and you want to take advantage of our presence in DIrt City. We don't really want a fight either, but are ready if a fight breaks out and we'd strongly like to not pay protection money as we don't know how much time we are necessarily going to be in your town before we head home. So since both are parties would prefer not to fight and our party in particular is disinclined to acquiesce to your request why don't we just head upon our ways and part in peace?"
Dirt City is Quiet (Temp DM SteveK) d20+17=25 ; d20+17=31 ; d20+17=18 ; Tuesday May 23rd, 2023 6:55:42 AM
The Eight Petaled Rose rejects the ‘offer’ of ‘protection’ in varied but emphatic fashion. Wilford’s counterpoint of apparently missing who is the protector and protected adds emphasis to Elyas’ measured declination, Falco’s dismissal of the strength of the Knives, Mak and Rolth’s threats, Kiwina's silence, and Ayotnom's counterpoint.
Falco’s laugh and calling the Knives ‘chugs’ is loud enough to stop half the Full Moon Market, even the circle of bullies pause to watch a new game. Harroc is clearly NOT intimidated by either Mak (25) or Rolth (31), and the dwarf’s eyes narrow dangerously at the dismissive flippancy from Falco. Further, there are observers to this open defiance of his House…
But Ayotnom has insight that causes the dwarf to blink, and then his face smooths out. He nods at the minotaur. ”Quite right, my fellows were here in case you started trouble, not to start it ourselves. It is such a shame you misunderstand me: our protection to the people and visitors of Dirt City is an agreement with the Prince, what is all this talk of a shakedown? So, please, go ahead with your business finding out about Neveras, and fair winds to your sails as you leave. Sleep well.” (Sense Motive DC 17 Highlight to display spoiler: { Harroc doesn’t believe a word of what he just said. Not. One. Word. }
Harroc turns left and walks between to stalls, a quick look says he is gone with only speculation on how he did it. His companions and crossbowmen also fade into the night. The other groups within hearing distance of the confrontation seem to suddenly have other places to go and quickly disappear among the vacant stalls. The Grubber looks at the Petals and gives a frightened squeak before running off.
The Petals are left alone in a silent town.
Mak(JamesM)(111/111)|AC:38AO/30/20T/--FF|CMD 35|Rapier +1|23/-/-/-/-|(AG,KN,*HY,WN,PS,WF,WS,AD)**|1d6+13+2d6(Evil)(15)x2)) d20+10=22 ; Tuesday May 23rd, 2023 8:39:56 AM "That was rubbish." Mak added as Herroc left. "He just wasn't ready for a fight. The next time we meet him, I suspect he will be ready." Mak however did not put his sword away. "We should warn Ramsey. Maybe even have him station the Lily off shore for a time and we can use our boat when we need to return."
"Come gents, let's be off." Mak finished as he grabbed Wil and took the lead while he made Wil tell him where to go.
"I knew we should have come ashore a ways from here and then walked into town."
OOC: Sense Motive +10, Roll 22
Elyas (Ben A.) (82/92 HP | AC: 19; Touch:14; Flat: 16; CMD:15) | Status: mage armor d20+12=29 ; Tuesday May 23rd, 2023 10:30:44 AM Let's get back to the ship. We need the rest, and now it seems we may need to double check our defenses and warn Ramsay and the crew about a possibility of a house-sponsored attack on our property... He definitely did not mean anything that he just said, including the part about 'sleeping well'. It may be nothing or it could be a hint that they plan to stab someone tonight."
Elyas shakes his head, hoping they won't have to fight a bunch of people here. This isn't what they wanted. they were just here to protect their islands from a necromancer. why did people keep insisting on fighting a group that could slay dragons and beholders?
Wilford Grimly (HP:106/106- AC: 26; Touch: 15; Flat: 27; CMD: 23) d20+10=27 ; Tuesday May 23rd, 2023 3:44:58 PM
Wil is satisfied he called out the sneaky members of the offending group. He is thrilled that he has the weight of the Petals to even walk away from a situation like this. For sure, this would have been a problem when he was younger and stranded on his own with the other Grubbers. There is a twinge of guilt, but he swallows that happy he is able to move on unharmed.
Wil willingly joined Mak at the front of the group. He was happy to narrate the way forward and tell a bit of history along with it.. kind of like "on the left is so and so.. on the right is where so and so lived.. etc"
Rolth Niheow (BatMark) (112/114) HP | AC: 20; Touch: 13; CMD: 29 d20+19=31 ; Tuesday May 23rd, 2023 7:03:48 PM
Rolth agrees that Harroc is a liar, and suggests moving to the ship immediately but carefully. After all, the Knives could try to ambush us at any time. He casts a quick Toros Taur Try (minotaur version) and is ready to move out. He reminds all that the ship is in fact not at a pier, but deliberately left out in the harbor, and we have been using our folding boat to go back and forth. Once on board, we should warn the crew of the danger, set watches, and make any other preparations for trouble that we can.
(Sense Motive = autosuccess, Perception = 31 to watch for threats on the way)
Kiwina (Steve M) 131/131 HP | Current AC:22 or 26 vs AoO | HeP: 2 | Status: awake ! Swim 60' d20+20=28 ; Tuesday May 23rd, 2023 7:51:41 PM
Kiwina heads back to the docks with the others, keeping an eye out behind them.
So, are half-orcs a Noble race? What happens to my soul if I just BBQ his leg a little bit? Add some peanut sauce? We might move up and recce a bit. See you back at the dock.
Tsak, with Esmerelda moving like a ghost beside him, takes a long forward point. He's staying to the shadows and looking for ambushes ahead of the group. He spends quite a lot of energy moving hither and thither, to and fro, but does his best to ensure the group will get at least some advanced warning of an impending attack.
Ayotnom Ogini Hugh C 87/87 | AC : 25; Touch 19; Flat 19 CMD 28(30 vs Trip, Grapple or Disarm) d20+17=29 ; Tuesday May 23rd, 2023 11:23:20 PM
Sense Motive: 29
Ayotnom says, "I may be a minotaur but I still know the smell of bovine excretions when I encounter them. That Harroc character did not believe one thing he just said, let's go back to the Rose before we encounter who knows what new house looking to use us for one reason or another."
Dirt City is Quiet (Temp DM SteveK) Wednesday May 24th, 2023 6:45:23 AM
No one believes Harroc, and the heroes make preparations for danger, both immediate and while they are in Dirt City. Through the Full Moon Market, then Moontown, then Grubbertown to the docks.
No one is in the way of the heroes while in the Full Moon Market.
Tsak takes long point and his stealthiness brings him up on several small groups that are quite startled if he reveals himself. None of them seem to be associated with any House. The writ of The Tide hero group may make Moontown safe from the Houses, but that doesn’t mean nothing goes on. They try to avoid the Petals.
Grubbertown is also quiet. The Tide’s agreement holds sway here, so there are no House-men, no Prince-men, and no one with two coppers to rub together. The inhabitants of this shabby part of town only dream of full bellies and warm skin.
The Petals reach the docks, get their folding boat, and make it to their ship. (Perception DC 20. Highlight to display spoiler: {Those with sharp eyes noticed there are several eyes watching their ship and the heroes. } ) (Perception DC25 Highlight to display spoiler: {Sharper eyes notice others watching other ships and warehouses. } )
…….
The heroes have the initiative to make plans, preparations, and sleep tonight as deeply as they dare.
Wilford Grimly (HP:106/106- AC: 26; Touch: 15; Flat: 27; CMD: 23) d20+13=22 ; Wednesday May 24th, 2023 8:50:16 AM
Wil relaxes once he gets to the Rose. "Maybe we should get some dinner. What do we got on the menu?" Once fed Wil asks about the plan for tomorrow.
Mak(JamesM)(111/111)|AC:38AO/30/20T/--FF|CMD 35|Rapier +1|23/-/-/-/-|(AG,KN,*HY,WN,PS,WF,WS,AD)**|1d6+13+2d6(Evil)(15)x2)) d20+17=28 ; Wednesday May 24th, 2023 9:21:17 AM
Mak boarded the folding boat and rode out to the Rose with the others. As soon as they were a hundred yards off shore and their voices obscured by the waves and wind Mak offered. "Lots of watching eyes at the dock. On us and on others too. Best to keep that in mind when we return."
On board the Rose, Mak changed into clean clothes and then handed Elyas his cache of items he'd grabbed in the warehouse. The remaining eyestalks and the ring he'd picked up. "Hopefully it'll do someone some good." he said. "I'm going to bed. Wake me for last watch."
With that Mak laid out his longbow, quiver and sword for quick recovery should he need it in the night and took his rest.
Falco Ambersier (Ryan M) Status: Protection from Energy (F+E)+ SoFaith | 84/84 HP | | AC 19(24) (T15/F15) | Channel (5d6) 5/7 DC18 | d20+18=28 ; Wednesday May 24th, 2023 1:19:46 PM
{Perception: 28}
Falco notes those watching and those watching the watching and just shakes his head. Responding to Mak on the boat. "What an interesting place this is. I can see why some chose to stay here but its not for me."
Falco is happy to get back to the Rose and plans to take a watch as he is able, while dismissive the threat made he is not so foolish as to not watch. ______________________________ CURRENT SPELLS: 5th - 2+1 - Breath of Life (D) / Flame Strike DC20 / Heal 4th - 3+1 - Cure Critical (D) / Protection from Energy (3/3) 3rd - 4+1 - Cure Serious (D) / Bestow Curse / Dispel Magic / Blindness Deafness DC18 (2/2) 2nd- 5+1 - XCure Moderate (D)X / Lesser Restoration / Resist Energy (2/2) / Silence DC17 (2/2) 1st- 6+1 - Cure Light Wounds (D) / Bless (2/2) / Endure Elements (2/2) / Shield of Faith (2/2) / C - Detect Magic / Light / Mending / Purify Food and Drink
Kiwina (Steve M) 131/131 HP | Current AC:22 or 26 vs AoO | HeP: 2 | Status: awake ! Swim 60' d20+20=23 ; Wednesday May 24th, 2023 6:39:54 PM
(Perception = 23)
Kiwina is glad to be out on the water again. He perks up as they leave the shore.
Once they get to the ship, he tells Ramsey about what happened. Not that trouble is likely, but the crew should be warned.
Kiwina (Steve M) 131/131 HP | Current AC:22 or 26 vs AoO | HeP: 2 | Status: awake ! Swim 60' d20+20=23 ; Wednesday May 24th, 2023 6:39:57 PM
(Perception = 23)
Kiwina is glad to be out on the water again. He perks up as they leave the shore.
Once they get to the ship, he tells Ramsey about what happened. Not that trouble is likely, but the crew should be warned.
Rolth Niheow (BatMark) (112/114) HP | AC: 20; Touch: 13; CMD: 29 d20+17=29 ; Wednesday May 24th, 2023 9:37:21 PM
Rolth will work with Kiwina to warn Ramsey and the crew, and make sure that watches are set (crew and Petals.) After a bite to eat, he suggests that we make a plan for tomorrow. "We have the map leading us to Nevras' location. What preparations should we make for our visit to him tomorrow? Perhaps we can just go to his shop and inquire about some exotic taxidermy, as Kiwina suggested earlier. Then assess the situation from there? MIght want to have some spells or other abilities ready to make him more likely to give us the information that we seek. We're not so good at subterfuge, so anything too fancy is bound to go off the rails. At least he is in Dart territory, not Knives', who might otherwise be more likely to warn him.", this last with a mild glare at Wil.
Rolth will take his turn on watch during the night, keeping a wary eye and ear out for trouble.
(Perception = 29)
Ayotnom Ogini Hugh C 87/87 | AC : 25; Touch 19; Flat 19 CMD 28(30 vs Trip, Grapple or Disarm) d20+18=29 ; Thursday May 25th, 2023 12:21:49 AM
Ayotnom says to his compatriots, "Interesting, there are eyes watching our ship, but there are other eyes watching other ships. I wonder if ship watching is standard operating procedure for Dirt City?"
Tsak Rezar (Damien) AC22(22) (T15/F14) 112/113 HP| Falchion +4 2D4+3|Crossbow1 1D8+1 Status: d20+17=21 ; d20+17=21 ; Thursday May 25th, 2023 1:39:39 AM
(Perception vs spoiler=21, Perception during watch=21)
Tsak keeps to himself as he makes his way back to the ship. He's keen to avoid trouble not create it or interrupt it. Once on board he sees about getting Esmerelda fed and then grabs something warm to fill his belly and a wee tot of rum. After that he rests in his hammock until his turn on watch in the middle of the night.
During watch Tsak climbs the crows nest and divides his time between searching the calm waters and the skies around the ship (Perception) interspersed with periods just looking at the stars. They're not on the open ocean but are far enough away from any bright lights that the heavens are revealed above him in all their glory.
After a long sleep he meditates on waking. This calms his mind and assists with his spells. At a late breakfast he's his usual quiet, happy self as the petals come together to hatch a plan for the day.
The Ship is Quiet (Temp DM SteveK) Thursday May 25th, 2023 10:00:55 AM
The heroes board 'the Rose', inform the ship's officers of the potential for trouble, and set a watch schedule for themselves. Ramsey also doubles the standard night-watch for the ship, just in case.
Kiwina and Rolth seem to want to do some planning, and they (and anyone else) are able to do so before bed.
About an hour past the mid of night, a much-patched dingy drifts towards the ship. It is easily seen by Tsak and the crewmembers on watch, but as it approaches, it turns out to be empty. (Profession: Sailor DC 10 Highlight to display spoiler: { with the tide going out, the dingy could have come from any number of docks.} )
Light dawns. The Petals can perform their morning routines and prepare for the day. The docks are already alive with fishermen, sailors, merchants, stevedoers, and layabouts. Any or all of them could have connections with one or more Houses or other organizations; all spying on each other (and the Petals!) and all looking for advantage. ..........
The heroes have the initiative
Wilford Grimly (HP:106/106- AC: 26; Touch: 15; Flat: 27; CMD: 23) Thursday May 25th, 2023 11:14:54 AM
"Do we have eyes, watching the eyes that are watching the eyes? ... but who is watching those eyes?" Wil asks with a smile. "Not sure where I fit in with the overnight watch?" He asks, unsure if he caught the commotion over the empty boat. He awakens in the morning to hear all the news and whatever has happened with the boat. He takes a moment in between breakfast and anything else to pray to Wardd
Orisons: Detect Magic, Resistance, Light, Guidance Lv1: Protection from Evil/Chaos..etc, Entropic Shield, Divine Favor, Bless, Shield of Faith, - D: True Strike Lv2: Spiritual Weapon, Spiritual Weapon, Spiritual Weapon, Spiritual Weapon D: Touch of Idiocy (if needed - Cure Moderate Wounds) Lv3: Wind Wall, Dispel Magic, Searing Light, - D: protection from energy Lv4: Magic Weapon, Greater, Imbue with Spell Ability - D: Confusion Shadow Dancer Special: Hide in plain sight Channel 4d6 Goblin seal of... of Sanctuary:
Like the 1st level cleric spell, but (1 round/level) + 1d3 rounds, thereby giving at least 2 rounds at a low level. Once cast the seal breaks, and becomes deactivated. The seal Expires on 3/12/2024
Mak(JamesM)(111/111)|AC:38AO/30/20T/--FF|CMD 35|Rapier +1|23/-/-/-/-|(AG,KN,*HY,WN,PS,WF,WS,AD)**|1d6+13+2d6(Evil)(15)x2)) d20+5=13 ; d20+17=23 ; Thursday May 25th, 2023 4:11:40 PM
If the alert went up at the sight of the dingy, Mak gathered his sword, bow and quiver and went on deck. Suspicious of the small boat Mak went to the rail and watched the waterline with his Goblin Seal of Light active as he walked the rails around the vessel.
"You want me to pop over and look at it more closely?" Mak asked as he thought Elyas being the wizard might not want to expose himself so readily.
Once done he climbed into the crows nest and kept an eye on the deck below.
OOC: PS: Sailor +5, Roll 13 Perception +17, Roll 23
Tsak watched the dingy drift past the Rose. He sees no movement and from the depth of the small craft in the water can tell that it carries no weight. Checking the direction of the tide offers no clue, it could have come from any number of docks. He continues to check in all directions as it may be a decoy. Then Mak comes up on deck with some sort of light and wanders everywhere to the complete ruination of his night vision. Nothing else eventuates during his watch so he duly reports the empty dingy and takes himself off to his hammock.
In the morning Tsak and Esmerelda prepare for another trip into Dirt City. He likes the idea of a straight up approach to Neveras (walk into his business, poke around, ask some questions) but will go along with whatever the others devise.
Rolth Niheow (BatMark) (112/114) HP | AC: 20; Touch: 13; CMD: 29 d20+17=31 ; Thursday May 25th, 2023 7:44:15 PM
Rolth suggests landing at a different spot than usual when we go ashore, and then purposely taking a slightly indirect route to Nevras' location, keeping a close eye out for more tails, death from above, and similar unpleasantness.
(Perception = 31 to spot trouble before it hits us)
Ayotnom Ogini Hugh C 87/87 | AC : 25; Touch 19; Flat 19 CMD 28(30 vs Trip, Grapple or Disarm) Thursday May 25th, 2023 10:01:51 PM
Asimov says, "So should we go see the taxidermist?"
Kiwina (Steve M) 131/131 HP | Current AC:22 or 26 vs AoO | HeP: 2 | Status: awake ! Swim 60' Thursday May 25th, 2023 10:24:38 PM
Kiwina isn't sure about this city above and below stuff, so he studies the map to make sure he knows where they should be able to find Canthil. He also prepares different spells for this outing.
When the time comes to go, he agrees with approaching the town from a different spot ‐- but how far before coming ashore, a mile or two out of town?
Ranger: 1st -- Alarm, Resist Energy Druid: 0th -- Create Water, Detect Magic, Flare, Light 1st -- Obscuring Mist, CLW, CLW, Faerie Fire, Produce Flame 2nd -- Fog Cloud, Flaming Sphere, Gust of Wind, Soften Earth and Stone, Spider Climb 3rd -- Call Lightning, Neutralize Poison, Sleet Storm, Spike Growth, Wind Wall Aumakua have 1st level Ranger spell x1 Stormburst
Kiwina (Steve M) 131/131 HP | Current AC:22 or 26 vs AoO | HeP: 2 | Status: awake ! Swim 60' Thursday May 25th, 2023 10:24:40 PM
Kiwina isn't sure about this city above and below stuff, so he studies the map to make sure he knows where they should be able to find Canthil. He also prepares different spells for this outing.
When the time comes to go, he agrees with approaching the town from a different spot ‐- but how far before coming ashore, a mile or two out of town?
Ranger: 1st -- Alarm, Resist Energy Druid: 0th -- Create Water, Detect Magic, Flare, Light 1st -- Obscuring Mist, CLW, CLW, Faerie Fire, Produce Flame 2nd -- Fog Cloud, Flaming Sphere, Gust of Wind, Soften Earth and Stone, Spider Climb 3rd -- Call Lightning, Neutralize Poison, Sleet Storm, Spike Growth, Wind Wall Aumakua have 1st level Ranger spell x1 Stormburst
Elyas (Ben A.) (82/92 HP | AC: 19; Touch:14; Flat: 16; CMD:15) | Status: mage armor d20+20=34 ; Friday May 26th, 2023 5:09:42 AM
Elyas prepares for the day, expecting the liklihood of things thing sideways when they find their ' taxidermist'. He examines the last ring from the beholder before heading out.
Spellcraft = 34
OOC (Temp DM SteveK) Friday May 26th, 2023 9:11:29 AM
OOC: Friends, thanks for letting me be your DM for a little while. DM Mark Bradley is back and will be taking over for the Friday Post.
Falco Ambersier (Ryan M) Status: Protection from Energy (F+E)+ SoFaith | 84/84 HP | | AC 19(24) (T15/F15) | Channel (5d6) 5/7 DC18 | d20+18=32 ; Friday May 26th, 2023 12:47:02 PM
Falco is up and ready in the morning though he is not going to participate in the planning. This city is a bit beyond him and he just hopes to have some fun as they go. He keeps his eyes peeled of the watchers watching to closely on the Petals. {Perception: 32}
______________________________ CURRENT SPELLS: 5th - 2+1 - Breath of Life (D) / Flame Strike DC20 / Heal 4th - 3+1 - Cure Critical (D) / Protection from Energy (3/3) 3rd - 4+1 - Cure Serious (D) / Bestow Curse / Dispel Magic / Blindness Deafness DC18 (2/2) 2nd- 5+1 - Cure Moderate (D) / Lesser Restoration / Resist Energy (2/2) / Silence DC17 (2/2) 1st- 6+1 - Cure Light Wounds (D) / Bless (2/2) / Endure Elements (2/2) / Shield of Faith (2/2) / C - Detect Magic / Light / Mending / Purify Food and Drink
DM Mark - Different Directions Friday May 26th, 2023 8:47:38 PM
(One minor correction. The Gilded Lily is docked at the great stone docks of Dirt City. Nothing else has changed though. That dingy still bumped into your ship on the water side.)
The Petals were glad to be back aboard their ship with its new name. Mak handed the ring he carries to Elyas. Examining it, Elyas concludes it is a +3 Ring of Protection.
Wil mutters something about eyes and eyes that watch the eyes. The crew of the Rose/Lily roll their eyes at his antics.
Tsak and Ramsey were both on watch when the small, empty dinghy bumped harmlessly into the ship. They looked. Tsak could see well enough in the dark, but Ramsey brought over a lantern. As the peered down, they saw nothing in the boat. Weird.
Mak heard some noise of movement on deck and rose to look at the empty boat. Suspicious, he looked all around the ship for any problems or possible evidence of unseen visitors, but found none. The night passed relatively uneventfully otherwise.
In the morning, there is some discussion about what to do. Ayotnom suggests going to pay this Nevras a visit, and others agree. Kiwina makes it a point to study the map, but he knows with the chaotic layout of the city it would be tough to find without the aid of the map.
Rolth and Kiwina think moving the ship up the coast a bit and coming ashore unseen might be a better approach. Tsak favors a straightforward approach, heading directly to Nevras’ house and asking to see the taxidermist.
Rolth and Falco keep a sharp lookout. They believe their ship is being observed by a number of folks, though these observers generally seem to be going about legitimate tasks in the dock area. There are a few other ships at the docks.
Perception or Sense Motive DC 25:Highlight to display spoiler: {The other ships don’t seem to have the occasional attention paid to them that the Gilded Lily does.}
Ramsey says, ”Oy. How’d that get there?” He points to a single-edged dagger sticking out of the dock end of the gang plank leading to the Gilded Lily. It certainly wasn’t there when you all came aboard the night before. He continues, “That can’t be good. How about that empty boat - maybe it was haunted? What happened while you folk were ashore. Actually, I don’t want to know what happened now that I think about it. Should I be worried though?” The crew seems a little jumpy.
Do you leave the ship moored at the docks or decide to anchor out from the docks but still in the harbor? Do you take it up the coast a bit? Do you leave the ship there and row the folding boat up to another place to put ashore? Do you simply proceed from the docks up into town? When you do go into town, what instructions do you leave with the ship?
Wilford Grimly (HP:106/106- AC: 26; Touch: 15; Flat: 27; CMD: 23) Friday May 26th, 2023 9:41:44 PM
“A haunted boat!” Wil said excited. “Shall we do a magic check on the boat? Magic is always involved in hauntings. I’ve never seen a haunting I can’t explain,” he added confidently. “Can we get to it?”
Kiwina (Steve M) 131/131 HP | Current AC:22 or 26 vs AoO | HeP: 2 | Status: awake ! Swim 60' d20+20=21 ; Friday May 26th, 2023 11:01:16 PM
(Perception = 21)
Kiwina asks Ramsey and the crew what they think of the area. He is inclined to move the ship away, even out of the harbor, and use the folding boat to get to shore. But he's been spending his time in the city more than the harbor.
Rolth Niheow (BatMark) (112/114) HP | AC: 20; Touch: 13; CMD: 29 d20+17=34 ; Friday May 26th, 2023 11:22:46 PM
Rolth likes Wil's idea to do a magic check on the boat, and so casts detect magic and proceeds to scan the ship, including the blade in the gangplank, looking for anything that doesn't belong. If that turns up nothing, he will also take a quick dive over the side to check over the outside of the ship both visually and magically, aided by his Pearl of the Sirenes.
While the others are magicking and swimming Tsak and Esmerelda do a thorough search of the ship, bow to stern, looking for anyone that may have come aboard unanounced during the night. Tsak is happy to move the boat or leave it where it is. He doubts they will fool anyone, a city like this will have spies everywhere working for various factions.
Mak(JamesM)(111/111)|AC:38AO/30/20T/--FF|CMD 35|Rapier +1|23/-/-/-/-|(AG,KN,*HY,WN,PS,WF,WS,AD)**|1d6+13+2d6(Evil)(15)x2)) Saturday May 27th, 2023 8:11:24 AM ”A single edged blade is a knife my friends. We should track down Herron and teach him a lesson. Any way we can determine the location of the person this knife belongs to?” Mak asked. ”These houses are starting to try my patience. “
Wilford Grimly (HP:106/106- AC: 26; Touch: 15; Flat: 27; CMD: 23) Saturday May 27th, 2023 8:54:14 AM
“A haunted boat!” Wil said excited. “Shall we do a magic check on the boat? Magic is always involved in hauntings. I’ve never seen a haunting I can’t explain,” he added confidently. “Can we get to it?”
Elyas (Ben A.) (82/92 HP | AC: 19; Touch:14; Flat: 16; CMD:15) | Status: mage armor Sunday May 28th, 2023 4:37:59 PM probably not haunted, but possibly am invisible person sent to look at our ship and send a message. We will likely have to encounter those goons again.
Elyas is in favor of going right to their target and seeing what happens. Best to be done here quickly
Ayotnom Ogini Hugh C 87/87 | AC : 25; Touch 19; Flat 19 CMD 28(30 vs Trip, Grapple or Disarm) d20+18=20 ; d20+17=24 ; Sunday May 28th, 2023 8:53:53 PM
Ayotnom says, "Well we had an attempted shake down from some folks from the house of daggers who wanted us to p ay protection money so that dagger could very well be a message from them."
Kiwina (Steve M) 131/131 HP | Current AC:22 or 26 vs AoO | HeP: 2 | Status: awake ! Swim 60' Monday May 29th, 2023 12:06:47 AM "Maybe we should take the knife with us when we head back to town. . . Let someone else get the message."
DM Mark - Nothing Shaking on Shakedown Street Monday May 29th, 2023 2:22:44 AM
Wil thinks the dinghy is haunted or magic, but hope for both. Elyas worries about an invisible person sent to scope out the ship and leave a message.
Rolth checks this out, casting Detect Magic. He first checks the Rose/Lily, including the gang plank and the dagger. There’s plenty of magic aboard the ship, but nothing suggesting an unseen visitor or such. The dagger is not magic. Then he goes into the water to check the hull of the ship and look for anything else suspicious. With his magic items he breathes and moves with ease in the somewhat murky waters near the great stone docks. Still, he sees nothing unusual, aside from some discarded trash near the bottom. Looking at the trash stirs up the silt, but nothing in particular catches his eye.
Rolth swims over the check the dinghy. It shows no magic. He does notice that the rope tied to the bow was cut. A couple of dockworkers notice Rolth in the water examining the little boat. "Hey there, that's a dock boat. It's used for a lot of things, but mostly to shuttle folk here and there. OK if we return it?" They produce a long pole with a hook, and seem ready to nab the thing if Rolth will let them.
Sense Motive DC 12:Highlight to display spoiler: {These men seem eager to get ahold of the boat. If pressed, they will explain that there a reward for returning lost or stolen boats. You're pretty sure it's not a big reward.}
Ramsey sends one of the crew to fetch the dagger. ”No sense leaving it there. Makes us look a little foolish.”
Kiwina asks Ramsey what he thinks of the area. Ramsey says, ”Well, it’s a right busy harbor, busier than most. Seems to be lots of folks around when it comes time to load or unload cargo. I did notice about as much effort to keep cargo private as there are people tryin’ to figure out what it is, but it’s subtle with surprisingly few fights over this, almost like is this back and forth is regular business for them. I’m keeping the crew aboard as much as possible. I get the feeling there are a lot of unwritten rules about how you go about things here.”
Ayonnom says that there was an attempted shakedown for protection, and wonders if the dagger might be related to that.
Ramsey says, [b]”Aye, it could be. Should we expect trouble?”
Mak notes that a single bladed dagger could be considered a knife. He would like to find Harroc to teach him a lesson. He asks if anyone can tell who owned the knife or where it came from.
Kiwina suggests taking the knife with them into town to “let someone else get the message.” Ramsey hands the knife to Kiwina. It looks well made, though it seems to have some wear.
Craft Weapons DC 15:Highlight to display spoiler: {This knife has been well used, and has been sharpened many times, some of which were a bit roughly done. It’s fairly sharp now. It has no rust.}
There is some discussion about what to do next. It’s about midmorning. The air is cool, but the sun shines hot upon your skin.
The crew seems a bit nervous. Even Ramsey seems a bit more worried than he was before.
Tsak Rezar (Damien) AC22(22) (T15/F14) 112/113 HP| Falchion +4 2D4+3|Crossbow1 1D8+1 Status: Monday May 29th, 2023 2:54:44 AM Lets go pay Neveras a visit, stay focussed on our goal. Anything that does or does not happen with the various houses is secondary to that.
Having said their piece Tsak and Esmerelda find a spot in the sun to lounge until the group comes to a consensus.
Falco Ambersier (Ryan M) Status: Protection from Energy (F+E)+ SoFaith | 84/84 HP | | AC 19(24) (T15/F15) | Channel (5d6) 5/7 DC18 | d20+6=24 ; Monday May 29th, 2023 8:12:35 AM
{Craft Weapon: 24}
Falco lets the group know what he can determine of the knife. "This knife has been well used, and has been sharpened many times, some of which were a bit roughly done. Fairly sharp. I guess that is not much use to know, wish I could figure out more."
______________________________ CURRENT SPELLS: 5th - 2+1 - Breath of Life (D) / Flame Strike DC20 / Heal 4th - 3+1 - Cure Critical (D) / Protection from Energy (3/3) 3rd - 4+1 - Cure Serious (D) / Bestow Curse / Dispel Magic / Blindness Deafness DC18 (2/2) 2nd- 5+1 - Cure Moderate (D) / Lesser Restoration / Resist Energy (2/2) / Silence DC17 (2/2) 1st- 6+1 - Cure Light Wounds (D) / Bless (2/2) / Endure Elements (2/2) / Shield of Faith (2/2) / C - Detect Magic / Light / Mending / Purify Food and Drink
Rolth Niheow (BatMark) (112/114) HP | AC: 20; Touch: 13; CMD: 29 Monday May 29th, 2023 10:17:17 AM
Rolth pushed the boat toward the eager fellows with the hook pole, and says with a wink, "Don't spend the reward all in once place, lads, unless its buying a round over at the pub. Tell 'em to send the bill for the cut rope to the House of Knives. One of their fellows must have been running with scissors and tripped into the boat. Dangerously careless, tssk, tssk, shouldn't allowed anywhere near the docks, I should think."
Rolth will then return to the Gilded Lily, cleaning and drying off with some towels and prestidigitation. To the others engaged in planning, he opines, "Moving the ship isn't intended to disguise our movements, just protect the ship and crew from being easy targets here in the port. I still think that is our best course of action. That dingy could just as easily been a fireship, or full of ruffians. Let's get on with it, either way. The longer we sit here, the longer they have to plan and move against us. Let's get to Nevras, get the information that we need, and get out of town."
Kiwina (Steve M) 131/131 HP | Current AC:22 or 26 vs AoO | HeP: 2 | Status: awake ! Swim 60' Monday May 29th, 2023 11:54:18 AM "You've told us enough, Falco. Someone used a knife they've carried for years. Or they stole it from a grubber. Either way, it seems spur of the moment."
Kiwina was already for moving the ship from the docks, and reminds Ramsey that if he feels the ship and crew would be safer elsewhere the Petals will be able to find it. So he proposes getting the ship underway and taking the boat to shore.
Mak (Matthew subbing for James M) d20+10=13 ; Monday May 29th, 2023 8:05:57 PM
"We should just leave the boat and search for Harroc." Mak says. "Maybe we can get the information within the city?"
Wilford Grimly (HP:106/106- AC: 26; Touch: 15; Flat: 27; CMD: 23) d20+13=16 ; Monday May 29th, 2023 8:12:09 PM
Wil watches from the rear of the group barely able to make out what's going on with all the taur bodies in front of him. His opinion of the situation, he explains to noone.. visible.. at least is he does not want to visit the Darts.. "That's the important part.. I grew up within the Dart House... I do not want to go back. They killed my father, then my mother - from grief and they disregarded me as a Grubber. My own family, through me away."
Ayotnom Ogini Hugh C 87/87 | AC : 25; Touch 19; Flat 19 CMD 28(30 vs Trip, Grapple or Disarm) Monday May 29th, 2023 9:16:34 PM
Ayotnom says, "I think the sooner we can deal with this taxidermist, the sooner we can be done with the city and on our way. Remember one of the things I said to diffuse the situation last night was why would we pay protection when we don't know how long we'd be here. Well if we aren't here there isn't any reason to pay protection money so lets find this taxidermist and if he is the dragon's contact with respect to that book, put an end to this and if he isn't then lets find out where the clues he provides leads and hopefully they lead away from here. I'd rather deal with our politics then this land of intrigue with all the houses seeming to look for leverage on everyone."
DM Mark - "Lets go pay Neveras a visit" Tuesday May 30th, 2023 2:09:15 AM
Ramsey hands the knife to Falco, who reports on the condition of the thing.
The two dock workers thank Rolth for the dinghy. They don’t seem to respond to his assertion that is was the Knives that cut the thing loose.
Back on board, Rolth thinks it best to move the Gilded Lily out in the harbor and take a boat in to keep the ship safe. Kiwina agrees and directs Ramsey to get the ship underway. The crew soon has the boat maneuvered out from the docks and you weigh anchor.
Mak would prefer to go into the city to find information about Harroc. Wil doesn’t care much so long as the Petals avoid the House of Darts (though Nevras’ house is in Dartville.) Tsak interrupts the discussion, suggesting the Petals avoid the Houses as best they can and focusing on finding Nevras. Ayotnom agrees, suggesting that the sooner the Petals can get the information they need from Nevras the sooner they can be done with Dirt City altogether!
Once the Gilded Lily is moved out and anchored, the Petals use their folding boat to return to the docks. Once there, they fold their boat back up (assuming you’re not going to leave a magic boat at the docks.) This causes a good deal of interest. A couple of burley humans approach you - they seem to be well armed and armored, and they have a rather predatory look about them. Who carries the folded up boat?
One says, ”That’s a pretty useful thing. Can I ask where you got such a boat? Is it for sale?”
The other smiles as he says in a low voice, ”I hear you fellas humiliated the Knives last night. What House do you back? You know, the Wolves could use some folks like you. And after angering the Knives, you could use an ally. I could arrange an introduction.”
If you choose to discuss further with these two, let me know what you say and do as we can resolve that. If not, how do you respond before you leave? If you do leave, see below.
You move up into the hilly town as you move from the docks. This time, you go up into town between the Backstab Quarter and Cloaktown. As you go, you pass a school and you see a number of children out front playing some games. They see you pass, and two look at Flaco and point and wave and laugh, though it’s not a mean or mocking laugh. Then you turn right, past Wardd’s Ward toward Dartville.
(Survival or Knowledge Local DC 20:Highlight to display spoiler: {You find what you think is the place indicated on the map. It appears to be a long, low house built partially into the hillside. There is what appears to be a small porch and a front door. There are a couple of shuttered windows and a large stone door at the other end of the structure. There is a string attached to a bell near the front door.)}
Tsak Rezar (Damien) AC22(22) (T15/F14) 112/113 HP| Falchion +4 2D4+3|Crossbow1 1D8+1 Status: d20+10=22 ; Tuesday May 30th, 2023 4:39:50 AM
(Survival vs spoiler=22 pass)
Tsak largely ignores the Wolves as he folds it up and puts it on his back (Unless someone else wants to take it). He's being a bit rude but he doesn't really care, he'll be nice to the houses if he finds a use for them.
He takes point as they traipse thru Dirt City eventually coming to a house on a hillside This'll be the place, by my reckoning. Whats our story for this fella?
Elyas (Ben A.) (82/92 HP | AC: 19; Touch:14; Flat: 16; CMD:15) | Status: mage armor d20+12=30 ; Tuesday May 30th, 2023 9:15:16 AM Are the houses around here always so quick to recruit members? Elyas asks, half to the Wolves and half to the Petals
You would think houses like that would try to be more exclusive and not clamoring to get the favor and attention of every little adventuring troupe that happens through the city. Sorry fellas, we're not looking to be here long, not nearly long enough to weigh all these wonderful membership offers we've been getting.
Elyas asks a few people for directions but is nostly able to follow the rough description that Drola gave them and his map to find the spot (Know local = 30)
At Tsak's question Elyas shrugs What do you all think? do we need to be coy here, or just come in asking questions about dragons in the Taur Islands and see what he does? If we're wrong it would be pretty embarrassing though. Maybe we just act like customers. Say we have an unusually large Rainbow Dragon hide that we would like preserved, see if that can get us in the direction we need to go to see if he knows a certain rainbow dragon....
Mak(JamesM)(111/111)|AC:38AO/30/20T/--FF|CMD 35|Rapier +1|23/-/-/-/-|(AG,KN,*HY,WN,PS,WF,WS,AD)**|1d6+13+2d6(Evil)(15)x2)) Tuesday May 30th, 2023 9:20:31 AM "We are equal opportunity enforcers and remain neutral in all matters." Mak replied. "We take down who ever is in our way and ask nothing from anyone. If we are aligned with anyone it's the WLA, Wardd, Pantheon, and Domi." Mak said as he addressed the wolves indicating what was obviously seen with each on each of them. Wil's Wardd symbol, Kiwina's and Maks Pantheon symbol, Rolth and Antonym's Domi symbol, and practically all of them and their WLA badges.
Falco Ambersier (Ryan M) Status: Protection from Energy (F+E)+ SoFaith | 84/84 HP | | AC 19(24) (T15/F15) | Channel (5d6) 5/7 DC18 | Tuesday May 30th, 2023 10:49:21 AM
Falco chuckles as they are approached by yet another group. They all want us in their games it seems. As long as they don't threaten the Rose they can do as they please I suppose. He mumbles to himself "What a place."
______________________________ CURRENT SPELLS: 5th - 2+1 - Breath of Life (D) / Flame Strike DC20 / Heal 4th - 3+1 - Cure Critical (D) / Protection from Energy (3/3) 3rd - 4+1 - Cure Serious (D) / Bestow Curse / Dispel Magic / Blindness Deafness DC18 (2/2) 2nd- 5+1 - Cure Moderate (D) / Lesser Restoration / Resist Energy (2/2) / Silence DC17 (2/2) 1st- 6+1 - Cure Light Wounds (D) / Bless (2/2) / Endure Elements (2/2) / Shield of Faith (2/2) / C - Detect Magic / Light / Mending / Purify Food and Drink
Rolth Niheow (BatMark) (112/114) HP | AC: 20; Touch: 13; CMD: 29 d20+24=26 ; Tuesday May 30th, 2023 7:38:05 PM
Rolth will attempt a more polite version of the brushoff delivered by his fellow Petals to the Wolves. "You lot certainly seem like solid folk, and were we intending to stay in the city long, we would certainly consider discussing options with those you would introduce us to. Unfortunately, as my friend said, we'll be moving along soon, and would not waste your leaders' time by pretending it were otherwise. We wish you good luck and good day!" He looks over in interest as Tsak moves to pack away the boat, given that Kiwina usually carries it, but will not argue the matter if Kiwina does not.
(Diplomacy = 26)
As far as the plan to encounter Nevras, Rolth is of two minds. We could try to make him think that we work for the dragon, and have come as emissaries to follow up on the offer to our dragon master. We would need to hide our WLA badges and other signs that might undermine that story. Rolth also likes Elyas' plan to present the rainbow hide and see what reaction we get. Ultimately, Rolth will go along with whatever most in the group want, knowing that we are terrible at subtlety anyway. Once a plan is made, Rolth will cast Eagle's Splendor on himself and ring the bell, which presumably is a way to announce our presence.
Kiwina (Steve M) 131/131 HP | Current AC:22 or 26 vs AoO | HeP: 2 | Status: awake ! Swim 60' d20+21=34 ; Tuesday May 30th, 2023 9:43:24 PM
Kiwina does not argue, not there.
When they get to Nevras's place (survival = 34), Kiwina does not like pretending to work for the dragon, but thinks it would be better than asking to have it stuffed, and doesn't have a better idea of his own. It's not as if they know it well enough to pass off as a mutual acquaintance, but being here to pick up the stuff for their boss might get them inside.
Ayotnom Ogini Hugh C 87/87 | AC : 25; Touch 19; Flat 19 CMD 28(30 vs Trip, Grapple or Disarm) Tuesday May 30th, 2023 9:54:46 PM
Ayotnom says, "I call him Imod but I guess what Mak said. We are eager to be about our business and complete the errand that drew us here so we can hopefully sail away from your fair yet exhausting city where it seems everyone tries to get a leg up on everyone."
Wilford Grimly (HP:106/106- AC: 26; Touch: 15; Flat: 27; CMD: 23) Tuesday May 30th, 2023 10:10:00 PM
"Honestly," Wil says drawing anyone he can away from the Knives. "Being a guest of a House may be to our advantage. We can leverage the Wolves against the Darts to get information on this Nevras. It may become complicated once we pick a winner but may be easier than trying to do it ourselves. I promise the Houses will never stop trying to recruit us and if we make more enemies we will certainly need a House to lean on. I"m sure the Knives know who we are by now."
DM Mark - "Lets go pay Neveras a visit" Wednesday May 31st, 2023 2:29:22 AM
The party replies to the two burley fighters. Elyas asks if the houses always try to recruit every little adventuring troupe that happens through the city. He assures these men the Petals do not plan to be here long. Rolth and Ayotnom agree in their own ways. Mak echoes this, and tells the men the Petals are neutral enforcers here and will take down anyone that stands in their way.
These two regard the heroes for a moment. ”You’re an interesting lot. One of you says you are just a group of travelers of no consequence here, and another says you’ll knock down anyone in your way. Your little group has made quite a splash here in a short time, causing a ruckus in Teeth territory and then humiliating the Knives publicly. You may not be picking a house, but you’re pissing off a few. Perhaps you have Wardd’s luck in this, but good luck eventually runs out.”
With that, these two watch as the Petals head off into the city. As you go, Wil says, “Being a guest of a House may be to our advantage. We can leverage the Wolves against the Darts to get information on this Nevras. It may become complicated once we pick a winner but may be easier than trying to do it ourselves. I promise the Houses will never stop trying to recruit us and if we make more enemies we will certainly need a House to lean on. I"m sure the Knives know who we are by now."
Soon you reach what you think is Nevras’ house from the map you were given. Surely you can trust the map the Keys gave you. It appears to be a long, low house built partially into the hillside. There is what appears to be a small porch and a front door. There are a couple of shuttered windows and a large stone door at the other end of the structure. There is a string attached to a bell near the front door.
The Petals quietly discuss how to approach this. Do they ring the bell? Are they messengers of a dragon? Do they just have questions about a dragon? Do they present the rainbow dragon hide, asking to have it preserved? (Wondering who is carrying that hide - I thought it was kept on your ship?) Rolth waits for a plan before ringing the bell at the front door.
A couple townsfolk walk past while you quietly deliberate.
Falco Ambersier (Ryan M) Status: Protection from Energy (F+E)+ SoFaith | 84/84 HP | | AC 19(24) (T15/F15) | Channel (5d6) 5/7 DC18 | Wednesday May 31st, 2023 10:06:47 AM
Falco listens to Will and is at a loss.
"I will leave it to you to pick a house if that is what we must do. The whole things seems childish to me. No you cant play with that toy that is one of the Knives toys. Don't sit there that is Dart's lunch table."
______________________________ CURRENT SPELLS: 5th - 2+1 - Breath of Life (D) / Flame Strike DC20 / Heal 4th - 3+1 - Cure Critical (D) / Protection from Energy (3/3) 3rd - 4+1 - Cure Serious (D) / Bestow Curse / Dispel Magic / Blindness Deafness DC18 (2/2) 2nd- 5+1 - Cure Moderate (D) / Lesser Restoration / Resist Energy (2/2) / Silence DC17 (2/2) 1st- 6+1 - Cure Light Wounds (D) / Bless (2/2) / Endure Elements (2/2) / Shield of Faith (2/2) / C - Detect Magic / Light / Mending / Purify Food and Drink
Mak(JamesM)(111/111)|AC:38AO/30/20T/--FF|CMD 35|Rapier +1|23/-/-/-/-|(AG,KN,*HY,WN,PS,WF,WS,AD)**|1d6+13+2d6(Evil)(15)x2)) Wednesday May 31st, 2023 10:49:23 AM
Mak glared at the townsfolk passing nearby as it seemed his role here in Dirt City was that of tough. He could be tough, right? He wasn't good at subterfuge so anything that required him not to lie would be best. Still, if Nevras was in league with the dragon they probably shouldn't alert him. What would they do with him if he was? It's not like he'd be breaking any laws here and going after a man in his own home might be viewed poorly, much like their attack on the beholder.
Elyas (Ben A.) (82/92 HP | AC: 19; Touch:14; Flat: 16; CMD:15) | Status: mage armor Wednesday May 31st, 2023 2:58:07 PM "We have been working with a house already though. We did a smash and grab (well I guess we really just smashed) for the House of Keys, and they paid us in information. We don't want to owe something to each House here, but perhaps we could be more overt about being with the Keys? but then Drola wouldn't want to have her house attached to the ruckus we made, so maybe that won't work out in the end. Maybe on the other hand we just say yes to all of them? what's the worst that could happen by being on all their sides at once until we leave?
Elyas is too focused on the issue of the Houses and doesn't have a great plan about how to approach a necromancer. He will follow the lead of the rest of the group. He is not going ot be able to talk his way into Nevras' good graces, so in his mind it is either let Rolth try his best at gathering some info, or go in quickly with a claim of killing a rainbow dragon and see what kind of reaction they could get.
[ooc: I don't think we brought the hide with us for this meeting. my original suggestion was just to claim that we had a nice rainbow dragon skin and were looking for a taxidermist. I doubt you would ever want to just carry something liek that around without having a firm plan for it. should be common enough for a customer to come in for a consultation about something that big and valuable, and make arrangements to have the taxidermist come see it or bring it on an appointed date?]
Ayotnom Ogini Hugh C 87/87 | AC : 25; Touch 19; Flat 19 CMD 28(30 vs Trip, Grapple or Disarm) Wednesday May 31st, 2023 8:33:53 PM
Ayotnom says, "Or we continue to say no to the rest of them, now that we have what we want...speaking of which how do we play this? Do we just come out and say that we took out a rainbow dragon who had an undead creation manual in his hoarde and we think that manual originated with you or are we going to play this more subtlely? I just hope we do something soon and I'm not opposed to the direct approach. If this guy turns out to be a necromancer and/or undead maybe we can just trample him and be done with this errand and this city?"
Rolth Niheow (BatMark) (112/114) HP | AC: 20; Touch: 13; CMD: 29 d20+22=37 ; Wednesday May 31st, 2023 9:44:10 PM
Rolth makes sure that everyone has tucked away their WLA badges, and rings the bell. Unless met with violence or other attack, he intends to produce the note with the cryptic symbol that we found back in the cave and truthfully state, "We are here seeking knowledge. We understand that Nevras Canthil has much knowledge, and would like to speak to him about this matter, if you please."
Diplomacy = 37
Kiwina (Steve M) 131/131 HP | Current AC:22 or 26 vs AoO | HeP: 2 | Status: awake ! Swim 60' Wednesday May 31st, 2023 10:12:35 PM
Kiwina does not add to the conversation, although he puts away his WLA badge. It seems their description may now be connected to the ruckus in Teeth territory, but no telling if anyone here will have heard about that. Perhaps they are quiet, stay at home types.
Tsak Rezar (Damien) AC22(22) (T15/F14) 112/113 HP| Falchion +4 2D4+3|Crossbow1 1D8+1 Status: Wednesday May 31st, 2023 10:44:04 PM
Tsak likes Rolth's approach. Lets bring some mystery and try to keep the guy on the back foot.
He and Esmerelda hang at the back of the party keeping an eye on whats happening on the street.
Wilford Grimly (HP:106/106- AC: 26; Touch: 15; Flat: 27; CMD: 23) Wednesday May 31st, 2023 10:48:02 PM
(Ooc: Been super busy this week … almost forgot to post) Wil follows the others after the Knives left. “The politicking in this city never stops,” Wil says. “…but let’s see what is going to happen.” “Should we surround the house to make sure this guy doesn’t run away? I can move around back?”
DM Mark - “Should we surround the house to make sure this guy doesn’t run away?” Thursday June 1st, 2023 3:20:16 AM
There is some discussion regarding the houses in Dirt City. Falco finds the whole thing childish. Elyas considers that the Petals could announce an alliance with each house. Ayotnom is for continuing to tell the houses no to any alliance.
At the building noted on Drola’s map, there is some discussion about how to proceed. Mak glares at the passers by. They seem a little unnerved by this an scurry away. Tsak and Esmerelda keep a watchful eye out as a rear guard.
Wil wonders about going around back to cover any exits. He can see the back of the house seems to be part of the hill that rises behind it. Eventually Rolth suggests everyone hide they’re WLA pins, and he goes up and rings the bell.
Nothing happens. And then, just before Rolth rings the bell a second time, you hear a couple of locks move and the door opens. Standing before you is a small, winged humanoid figure about a foot and a half tall. It looks up at you. ”Who are you and what do you want here? The master is busy.”
Knowledge Arcana DC 20:Highlight to display spoiler: {This is a homunculus, a magical creature created to serve a mage.}
As the door opens, an unpleasant smell wafts out from the door - a mix of rotten meat and chemicals. Yech. Behind this tiny creature you see a small, cluttered room. A large bear, frozen in an imminent attack, is behind the creature. Its glassy eyes seem to glare at you. You can also see a boar and a puma, likewise stuffed and frozen in a pose.
Rolth hands the little creature the piece of paper with the note and the strange symbol on it. He explains, "We are here seeking knowledge. We understand that Nevras Canthil has much knowledge, and would like to speak to him about this matter, if you please."
(The note read "Grovas - You will find this book useful. Consider it a gesture of good will and the start of our partnership. If you change your mind, seek out Neveras Canthil in Dirt City. He knows how to reach me.")
The creature looks at the paper, a blank look on its face. Then it looks up. ”The master has no knowledge of you and none to give you. He takes no visitors. If you wish to engage his services, tell the house of Darts what you want and they will negotiate a fee. I’ll keep this though.” The tiny creature crumples the paper in its fist and moves to shut the door.
If you try to grab or strike the creature:Highlight to display spoiler: {The tiny winged man is in your grasp for a moment, and then it suddenly disappears.}
Rolth Niheow (BatMark) (112/114) HP | AC: 20; Touch: 13; CMD: 29 d20+9=12 ; Thursday June 1st, 2023 6:54:06 AM
Rolth isn't sure what this strange doorman is, but is not so easily rebuffed. His low baritone emerges, smooth and fascinating, as he plants a paw to block the door without directly threatening the little creature. If successful, he will wave his companions forward.
(Bardic fascinate ability, DC16 WILL save or sit quietly and observe the performance.)
Mak(JamesM)(111/111)|AC:38AO/30/20T/--FF|CMD 35|Rapier +1|23/-/-/-/-|(AG,KN,*HY,WN,PS,WF,WS,AD)**|1d6+13+2d6(Evil)(15)x2)) Thursday June 1st, 2023 9:32:25 AM
Mak removed his WLA badge and put it in his belt pouch as he weaved back and forth and tried to look past the fat creatures in front of him, Rolth and Ayotnom. He didn't know much about the creature other than that it was small and vaguely demonic looking. He heard the creature speak and the interaction between Rolth and it, but had nothing to add.
Had Mak been a spellcaster and familiar with magic he'd have suggested they cast a few detection spells prior to ringing the bell so that they could scan the interior and those inside, but he didn't so any hope that the spellcasters might think to cast Detect Evil, Magic, or Undead was lost to chance. He did have his stabby little sword however and was ready should something nasty present itself.
Mak also thought about using a gambit where he'd say something like "taking gold elsewhere" but the noble warrior wasn't convinced he could pull off such a bluff. He'd just have to wait and hope their mouthpiece did the job of getting them inside. Then Rolth started singing, that was never good.
The young warrior clenched his fist and prepared to summon his sword.
Falco Ambersier (Ryan M) Status: Protection from Energy (F+E)+ SoFaith | 84/84 HP | | AC 19(24) (T15/F15) | Channel (5d6) 5/7 DC18 | d20+8=12 ; Thursday June 1st, 2023 3:47:06 PM
The new arrival is far more interesting then the houses to Falco and he perks up mumbling to himself. "Odd little thing we have here. Rude too." Rolth starts singing which takes him off guard and he just watches to see what happens.
______________________________ CURRENT SPELLS: 5th - 2+1 - Breath of Life (D) / Flame Strike DC20 / Heal 4th - 3+1 - Cure Critical (D) / Protection from Energy (3/3) 3rd - 4+1 - Cure Serious (D) / Bestow Curse / Dispel Magic / Blindness Deafness DC18 (2/2) 2nd- 5+1 - Cure Moderate (D) / Lesser Restoration / Resist Energy (2/2) / Silence DC17 (2/2) 1st- 6+1 - Cure Light Wounds (D) / Bless (2/2) / Endure Elements (2/2) / Shield of Faith (2/2) / C - Detect Magic / Light / Mending / Purify Food and Drink
Wilford Grimly (HP:106/106- AC: 26; Touch: 15; Flat: 27; CMD: 23) d20+5=20 ; d20+13=25 ; Thursday June 1st, 2023 4:22:51 PM
(Know: Arcane - 20) Wil is near the back of the group. He watches as the creature shuts the door. He is not able to do much else. (Perception: 25) He searches the room ahead through the windows to see if he can catch any movement within the home. "Not sure if I should cast something defensive," he says quietly.
"Orisons: Detect Magic, Resistance, Light, Guidance Lv1: Protection from Evil/Chaos..etc, Entropic Shield, Divine Favor, Bless, Shield of Faith, - D: True Strike Lv2: Spiritual Weapon, Spiritual Weapon, Spiritual Weapon, Spiritual Weapon D: Touch of Idiocy (if needed - Cure Moderate Wounds) Lv3: Wind Wall, Dispel Magic, Searing Light, - D: protection from energy Lv4: Magic Weapon, Greater, Imbue with Spell Ability - D: Confusion Shadow Dancer Special: Hide in plain sight Channel 4d6 Goblin seal of... of Sanctuary:
Like the 1st level cleric spell, but (1 round/level) + 1d3 rounds, thereby giving at least 2 rounds at a low level. Once cast the seal breaks, and becomes deactivated. The seal Expires on 3/12/2024"
DM Mark - “Should we surround the house to make sure this guy doesn’t run away?” Thursday June 1st, 2023 5:19:30 PM
Bonus DM post.
The little creature is unaffected by Rolth's fascinate ability and vanishes. Aside from some creatures that appear to be preserved in some fashion the room before you is empty and the door is open.
Rolth Niheow (BatMark) (112/114) HP | AC: 20; Touch: 13; CMD: 29 Thursday June 1st, 2023 8:10:13 PM "So much for subtlety. So shall we withdraw and ask the Darts for a meeting, or do this the usual way? We're better at the latter."
Tsak Rezar (Damien) AC22(22) (T15/F14) 112/113 HP| Falchion +4 2D4+3|Crossbow1 1D8+1 Status: Thursday June 1st, 2023 8:18:15 PM A round of the usual please, make this one to go!
Tsak isn't keen about taking on a magic user in his lair which probably extends well into the mountain and includes a lake filled with exotic biting fish and a volcano, but he's even less keen to have said wizard tracking them down while they sleep or muck about with the Houses.
And Rolth's right, we're better at kicking doors...
Ayotnom Ogini Hugh C 87/87 | AC : 25; Touch 19; Flat 19 CMD 28(30 vs Trip, Grapple or Disarm) d20+20=39 ; Thursday June 1st, 2023 9:37:57 PM
Know: Arcana - 39
Ayotnom says, "Hey wait a minute. That's a humunculus. You are created to serve a mage and I am a mage. Tell your master I wish private lessons and would prefer to talk mage to mage and leave the houses out of it."
Kiwina (Steve M) 131/131 HP | Current AC:22 or 26 vs AoO | HeP: 2 | Status: awake ! Swim 60' Friday June 2nd, 2023 12:00:38 AM "I think we're fortunate that the creature invited us to wait inside while it fetches its master," Kiwina remarks before entering the door.
DM Mark - “Should we surround the house to make sure this guy doesn’t run away?” d10=6 ; d20=2 ; Friday June 2nd, 2023 12:34:30 AM
Ayontom tells his friends the little creature is a homunculus, a creature made to serve a mage. He tells the thing to tell its master that Ayotnom would like arcane lessons from its master. Mak thinks the thing looks demonic, and Falco finds the creature rude.
As the homunculus goes to shut the door, Rolth stops it with his paw and begins a song to grab the creature’s full attention (Fascinate.) Strangely, the creature seems unaffected and looks at Rolth before it vanishes with his note. Mak watches Rolth’s attempt, ready to summon his sword.
Wil checks the windows. He can see that they are covered by closed shutters so he cannot see in. The shutters look sturdy and are clad in metal.
The door is open about as wide as Rolth’s paw which stopped it. The meager amount of light it lets in illuminates a narrow part of what is a dark room. When the homunculus first opened the door, you recall seeing a stuffed bear, puma and boar. And maybe something more.
Rolth and Tsak discuss whether to go see the House of Darts as instructed or to simply enter the dwelling. That pungent spell emanates from the open door.
Kiwina says, “I think we're fortunate that the creature invited us to wait inside while it fetches its master."
As the centaur enters, he quickly realizes this foyer is too small to hold everyone. This area is a jumbled mess of boxes and broken equipment. In addition, along the wall appear to be several motionless creatures: a taxidermied bear, puma, boar, several birds, and - something else. Tucked back in the corner is one of the strangest creatures you've ever seen - it is devoid of a head, or any features at all save for four short, clawed legs, this creature’s body looks like a large, glistening brain. It remains motionless.
(Kn:Dungeoneering DC 20 Highlight to display spoiler: {this is an intellect devourer.})
(Kn:Dungeoneering DC 25 Highlight to display spoiler: {It has some magical abilities, and is able to assult someone's mind. You have heard tales that it can shrink itself down and crawl inside someone to possess them.}
You wait for several minutes but nothing happens. If you eventually check the far door, you will find that it is locked.
What do you do?
—------------------------------------ Here is your map. Please move yourselves accordingly.
Bear in mind that these buildings seem to built for medium sized creatures. A large creature in your way may unintentionally provide cover against ranged attacks, a +4 bonus to AC. Combat in cramped quarters may get tricky, but I’ll do my best to work it out.
Should it be necessary, the rules for squeezing are:
Squeezing: In some cases, you may have to squeeze into or through an area that isn't as wide as the space you take up. You can squeeze through or into a space that is at least half as wide as your normal space. Each move into or through a narrow space counts as if it were 2 squares, and while squeezed in a narrow space, you take a –4 penalty on attack rolls and a –4 penalty to AC.
When a Large creature (which normally takes up 4 squares) squeezes into a space that's 1 square wide, the creature's miniature figure occupies 2 squares, centered on the line between the 2 squares. For a bigger creature, center the creature likewise in the area it squeezes into.
A creature can squeeze past a creature while moving but it can't end its movement in an occupied square.
To squeeze through or into a space less than half your space's width, you must use the Escape Artist skill. You can't attack while using Escape Artist to squeeze through or into a narrow space, you take a –4 penalty to AC, and you lose any Dexterity bonus to AC.
Elyas (Ben A.) (82/92 HP | AC: 19; Touch:14; Flat: 16; CMD:15) | Status: mage armor d20+13=32 ; Friday June 2nd, 2023 8:55:26 AM
Elyas follows Rolth and Kiwina inside, casting detect magic as he goes.
He recognizes the stuffed creature that looks like a brain. (know dungeon 32)
that's an intellect devourer. feeds on the mind. they say they can shrink down and enter a person, possessing them
Elyas will be looking for magical items or any indication that the stuffed things are enchanted. Seems like a good guardian for a place like this. Anything dead in a necromancer's lair is bound to be able to attack.
In the minutes that the group is waiting, Elyas also casts See Invisibility on himself, to make sure that Nevras isn't just hiding somewhere in the room, or in case there are any other interesting hidden things to see....
Spells prepared:
cantrips: Resistance, detect magic, light, mending Level 1: 2X protection from evil, mage armor, 3X magic missile, Comprehend Languages Level 2: Darkvision Resist Energy, 1/2X Scorching Ray, web, Glitterdust, see invisibility Level 3: 2X lightning bolt, Haste, 2 Fly, fireball Level 4: 2X summon monster IV, Dimensional Anchor, Greater Invisibility, Black tentacles Level 5: Baleful Polymorph, 2XPasswall, Summon Monster V, Telekenisis Level 6: 2X Chain Lightning, Summon Monster VI, Flesh to Stone Special: Acid Dart (8/8 remain, 1d6+4), pearl of power 1, bonded item, Quicken Rod 3 uses, dimensional steps (330/330)
Active effects: On Self: Mage Armor (11 hours) darkvision (11 hours) See invisibility (110 minutes)
On Party
Summon
Falco Ambersier (Ryan M) Status: Protection from Energy (F+E)+ SoFaith | 84/84 HP | | AC 19(24) (T15/F15) | Channel (5d6) 5/7 DC18 | Friday June 2nd, 2023 11:08:35 AM
Falco slips between the legs of the larger petals to look inside before going back to the rear of the group. He moves back faster when he hears Elyas description.
"Well there is nothing fun about that is there." he shudders "Like like some of us will have trouble getting though there. Do we just barge in anyway?"
______________________________ CURRENT SPELLS: 5th - 2+1 - Breath of Life (D) / Flame Strike DC20 / Heal 4th - 3+1 - Cure Critical (D) / Protection from Energy (3/3) 3rd - 4+1 - Cure Serious (D) / Bestow Curse / Dispel Magic / Blindness Deafness DC18 (2/2) 2nd- 5+1 - Cure Moderate (D) / Lesser Restoration / Resist Energy (2/2) / Silence DC17 (2/2) 1st- 6+1 - Cure Light Wounds (D) / Bless (2/2) / Endure Elements (2/2) / Shield of Faith (2/2) / C - Detect Magic / Light / Mending / Purify Food and Drink
Wilford Grimly (HP:106/106- AC: 26; Touch: 15; Flat: 27; CMD: 23) d20+2=7 ; Friday June 2nd, 2023 12:18:59 PM
When Wil enters to see the brain creature he recoils, "Can we possibly cover that up with something... a box or a bag, it's hideous." "I think it's draining my power just sitting there. Ugh"
(OOC: do my Shadow summons have the same issue with squeezing since they are shadows? Can they just float through.. I don't think so but just checking)
Orisons: Detect Magic, Resistance, Light, Guidance Lv1: Protection from Evil/Chaos..etc, Entropic Shield, Divine Favor, Bless, Shield of Faith, - D: True Strike Lv2: Spiritual Weapon, Spiritual Weapon, Spiritual Weapon, Spiritual Weapon D: Touch of Idiocy (if needed - Cure Moderate Wounds) Lv3: Wind Wall, Dispel Magic, Searing Light, - D: protection from energy Lv4: Magic Weapon, Greater, Imbue with Spell Ability - D: Confusion Shadow Dancer Special: Hide in plain sight Channel 4d6 Goblin seal of... of Sanctuary:
Like the 1st level cleric spell, but (1 round/level) + 1d3 rounds, thereby giving at least 2 rounds at a low level. Once cast the seal breaks, and becomes deactivated. The seal Expires on 3/12/2024
Kiwina (Steve M) 131/131 HP | Current AC:22 or 26 vs AoO | HeP: 2 | Status: awake ! Swim 60' d20+20=24 ; Friday June 2nd, 2023 10:51:38 PM
Kiwina reaches for a potion, but stops. Before he takes it, he wants to know what the plan is.
"Are we waiting for Canthil to come to us -- which seems unlikely now -- or are we looking for him? And if we're looking for him, are we trying to talk our way through this or ensuring he's no threat to us first?"
He readies an action to activate his tattoo if he hears someone at the interior door. (Perception = 24)
Tsak Rezar (Damien) AC22(22) (T15/F14) 112/113 HP| Falchion +4 2D4+3|Crossbow1 1D8+1 Status: d20+6=12 ; Saturday June 3rd, 2023 1:49:57 AM
(KnowDungeon vs spoiler=12 fail)
Seeing petals enter the room and then virtually stop Tsak figures there isn't much room, so he stays where he is on the street. Elyas' description of the stuffed creature doesn't ring any bells, he'll take the mages word for it. He's already cast his vote on the 'lets do this now' query so he stays quiet and just takes in whats happening around him.
Esmerelda sits bored, her tale switches slightly, she doesn't like the smell.
Rolth Niheow (BatMark) (112/114) HP | AC: 20; Touch: 13; CMD: 29 d20+17=26 ; Saturday June 3rd, 2023 12:55:37 PM
Rolth waits to hear the results of Elyas' magical investigation before deciding whether to move into the crowded room. "Hey Wil, you want to check for traps in the room and on the door leading further in?" Knowing that attack could come from any quarter, Rolth will keep a wary eye out in all directions. Thinking that he will need extra speed to move while squeezing, he also casts Expeditious Retreat on himself.
Perception = 26
Effect Tracking: Expeditious Retreat 50r (Move = 80’) Eagle’s Splendor 48r Low Light Vision (Darkvision when raging) Bardic Performance 0/12 rounds used (inactive) Rage 0/24 rounds used (inactive) Channel Energy 0/5 used Calming Touch 0/5 used
Spell Slots: Stabilize 0/1 used Divine Favor 0/3 used Bless 0/1 used Lesser Restoration 0/1 used Shield Other 0/1 used Prayer 0/1 used 1st level 1/5 used 2nd level 1/3 used
Ayotnom Ogini Hugh C 87/87 | AC : 25; Touch 19; Flat 19 CMD 28(30 vs Trip, Grapple or Disarm) d20+9=24 ; Sunday June 4th, 2023 8:37:20 PM
Know Dungeon - 24
Ayotnom says, "Is that an Intellect Devourer? I've never seen one of those before in real life."
DM Mark - “Are we waiting for Canthil to come to us?” d10=3 ; d10=2 ; d10=6 ; Monday June 5th, 2023 2:05:51 AM
Most of the Petals mill about outside. Only Kiwina is in the foyer of this house until Elyas enters to cast Detect Magic. Aside from any magic the Petals have on them, Elyas detects no magic here. Elyas also casts See Invisibility and scans the room, but there are no invisible creatures here that he is aware of.
Ayotnom and Elyas both recognize this glistening brain creature as something called an Intellect Devourer. Elyas warns the others of what they can do.
Wil enters and asks that someone else put something on the brain creature. Rolth asks Wil to check the door for traps, and then casts Expeditious Retreat on himself.
Falco peeks his head in but wants no part of this. Likewise, Tsak and Esmerelda stay outside. Kiwina stays where he is, asking what the plan is from here.
It has been five minutes since the creature disappeared, and one minute since you started casting spells.
What now?
—------------------------------------ Here is your map.Please move yourselves accordingly.
Bear in mind that these buildings seem to built for medium sized creatures. A large creature in your way may unintentionally provide cover against ranged attacks, a +4 bonus to AC.
Should it be necessary, the rules for squeezing are:
Squeezing: In some cases, you may have to squeeze into or through an area that isn't as wide as the space you take up. You can squeeze through or into a space that is at least half as wide as your normal space. Each move into or through a narrow space counts as if it were 2 squares, and while squeezed in a narrow space, you take a –4 penalty on attack rolls and a –4 penalty to AC.
When a Large creature (which normally takes up 4 squares) squeezes into a space that's 1 square wide, the creature's miniature figure occupies 2 squares, centered on the line between the 2 squares. For a bigger creature, center the creature likewise in the area it squeezes into.
A creature can squeeze past a creature while moving but it can't end its movement in an occupied square.
To squeeze through or into a space less than half your space's width, you must use the Escape Artist skill. You can't attack while using Escape Artist to squeeze through or into a narrow space, you take a –4 penalty to AC, and you lose any Dexterity bonus to AC.
Combat in cramped quarters may get tricky, but I’ll do my best to work it out.
Falco Ambersier (Ryan M) Status: Protection from Energy (F+E)+ SoFaith | 84/84 HP | | AC 19(24) (T15/F15) | Channel (5d6) 5/7 DC18 | Monday June 5th, 2023 9:36:02 AM
Falco boldly waits while heroically letting others take the point.
______________________________ CURRENT SPELLS: 5th - 2+1 - Breath of Life (D) / Flame Strike DC20 / Heal 4th - 3+1 - Cure Critical (D) / Protection from Energy (3/3) 3rd - 4+1 - Cure Serious (D) / Bestow Curse / Dispel Magic / Blindness Deafness DC18 (2/2) 2nd- 5+1 - Cure Moderate (D) / Lesser Restoration / Resist Energy (2/2) / Silence DC17 (2/2) 1st- 6+1 - Cure Light Wounds (D) / Bless (2/2) / Endure Elements (2/2) / Shield of Faith (2/2) / C - Detect Magic / Light / Mending / Purify Food and Drink
Elyas (Ben A.) (82/92 HP | AC: 19; Touch:14; Flat: 16; CMD:15) | Status: mage armor Monday June 5th, 2023 9:42:53 AM
In response to Kiwina's question, Elyas says
"well, based on what that creature said I don't think we'll be able to talk our way into seeing this guy. I don't think he's going to come to us, so I guess it is time to look for him. or at least for more information about the book we found. maybe time to force our way through that door? no magic on it, so hopefully it's safe!
Wilford Grimly (HP:106/106- AC: 26; Touch: 15; Flat: 27; CMD: 23) d20+14=33 ; Monday June 5th, 2023 5:09:50 PM
(Perception: 33 - for traps) Wil turns his attention from the beast to his Rogue talents and searches the door or doors for traps. “Who would trap the door of a house like this,” he says with sarcasm. “I’m telling you, if there IS a trap, we can then tell what kinda guy he is for sure.”
Rolth Niheow (BatMark) (112/114) HP | AC: 20; Touch: 13; CMD: 29 Monday June 5th, 2023 5:28:08 PM "Considering that his doorman stole our note, I think we have every right to investigate. Do we go through this little door, or move down to the big stone one to our East? I'm fine either way, but let's get moving!"
Tsak Rezar (Damien) AC22(22) (T15/F14) 112/113 HP| Falchion +4 2D4+3|Crossbow1 1D8+1 Status: Monday June 5th, 2023 10:28:45 PM
As the petals move into the room Tsak and Esmerelda bring up the rear. Moving thru the room with the apparantly stuffed animals gives him the willies. Dead things have come to life before, it wasn't pleasant. Once inside the structure Tsak draws his sword and keeps his wits about him.
Ayotnom Ogini Hugh C 87/87 | AC : 25; Touch 19; Flat 19 CMD 28(30 vs Trip, Grapple or Disarm) Monday June 5th, 2023 11:00:04 PM
Ayotnom doesn't really see how he can fit inside the antechamber currently with all his friends in there so he waits for it to be less crowded to enter.
Ayotnom Ogini Hugh C 87/87 | AC : 25; Touch 19; Flat 19 CMD 28(30 vs Trip, Grapple or Disarm) Monday June 5th, 2023 11:00:09 PM
Ayotnom doesn't really see how he can fit inside the antechamber currently with all his friends in there so he waits for it to be less crowded to enter.
Kiwina (Steve M) 131/131 HP | Current AC:22 or 26 vs AoO | HeP: 2 | Status: awake ! Swim 60' Monday June 5th, 2023 11:21:18 PM
Kiwina does his best to provide more space for others in the room -- especially Wil while he's checking for traps -- but does not leave it yet. Whether and how far into the hill the place goes might figure into how long it takes to find Canthil. He hopes it won't take long.
DM Mark - “Do we go through this little door, or move down to the big stone one to our East?” d10=7 ; d10=1 ; Tuesday June 6th, 2023 2:40:51 AM
Based on what that tiny winged creature said, Elyas does not expect Nevras to come and meet the Petals. He is encouraged that the door before him does not appear to be magic. Wil carefully looks the door over. There are no traps on the door that he can find, but he does find the door locked. He takes out his tools and is able to pick the lock and quietly opens the door (the DM assumes this would be his next action.) Another minute has gone by.
Before Wil is a dark room. In the dim light that comes in from your open door, you can make out a larger area. You think you see several doors. Is that a kitchen area you see beyond you? This place is kind of a mess, and there is a smell of rotting food. Do you have a light source? Eyes from stuffed animal heads mounted on the walls stare silently at you. You hear something scurry in the darkness.
Kiwina is ready to allow others in, but noone goes in.
Rolth suggests either going through the doorway Wil unlocked or going down the side of the house to investigate the outside stone doors.
Ayotnom waits for the interior to be less crowded before he enters. Mak waits as well.
Tsak takes up a rear guard, and Falco is content to wait for others to go in first.
Tsak will notice a few townsfolk peering around the corners of nearby buildings, seemingly wondering what’s going on.
(The parts of this house you have seen so far are too small for you to comfortably fit. But that does not prevent you from squeezing in and simply dealing with the space limitations here. And of course, you can wait outside while others explore if that is what you wish.)
—------------------------------------ Here is your map.Please move yourselves accordingly.
Bear in mind that these buildings seem to be built for medium sized creatures. A large creature in your way may unintentionally provide cover against ranged attacks, a +4 bonus to AC.
Should it be necessary, the rules for squeezing are:
Squeezing: In some cases, you may have to squeeze into or through an area that isn't as wide as the space you take up. You can squeeze through or into a space that is at least half as wide as your normal space. Each move into or through a narrow space counts as if it were 2 squares, and while squeezed in a narrow space, you take a –4 penalty on attack rolls and a –4 penalty to AC.
When a Large creature (which normally takes up 4 squares) squeezes into a space that's 1 square wide, the creature's miniature figure occupies 2 squares, centered on the line between the 2 squares. For a bigger creature, center the creature likewise in the area it squeezes into.
A creature can squeeze past a creature while moving but it can't end its movement in an occupied square.
To squeeze through or into a space less than half your space's width, you must use the Escape Artist skill. You can't attack while using Escape Artist to squeeze through or into a narrow space, you take a –4 penalty to AC, and you lose any Dexterity bonus to AC.
Combat in cramped quarters may get tricky, but I’ll do my best to work it out.
Mak(JamesM)(111/111)|AC:28/18T/--FF|CMD 33| Arrows/10+1 CLB|16/11/6/16(RS)/-|(FA,WF,WS,WT,PBS,DA,RS,MS)**|1d8+16(MS)(20)x3)) Tuesday June 6th, 2023 8:19:40 AM
Mak stayed back and drew his bow. There was no way he'd be able to fit inside that room with those taurs. Maybe if something came alive he'd be able to shoot around them.
Falco Ambersier (Ryan M) Status: Protection from Energy (F+E)+ SoFaith | 84/84 HP | | AC 19(24) (T15/F15) | Channel (5d6) 5/7 DC18 | Tuesday June 6th, 2023 9:47:42 AM
Like Mak, Falco has his bow but just thinks he will be in the way. Once there is an opening he will go it behind the three larger companions.
______________________________ CURRENT SPELLS: 5th - 2+1 - Breath of Life (D) / Flame Strike DC20 / Heal 4th - 3+1 - Cure Critical (D) / Protection from Energy (3/3) 3rd - 4+1 - Cure Serious (D) / Bestow Curse / Dispel Magic / Blindness Deafness DC18 (2/2) 2nd- 5+1 - Cure Moderate (D) / Lesser Restoration / Resist Energy (2/2) / Silence DC17 (2/2) 1st- 6+1 - Cure Light Wounds (D) / Bless (2/2) / Endure Elements (2/2) / Shield of Faith (2/2) / C - Detect Magic / Light / Mending / Purify Food and Drink
Elyas (Ben A.) (82/92 HP | AC: 19; Touch:14; Flat: 16; CMD:15) | Status: mage armor d20+5=12 ; d20+14=28 ; Tuesday June 6th, 2023 9:49:53 AM
Elyas goes through the door when Wil opens it, moving slowly. He's not very stealthy (12), but he feels like he should probably be one of the first in if we're dealing with another magic user. besides, if something attacks he can always dimensional step out of the way.
He scans this room and tries to get to where he can see around the next corner if nothing attacks in this segment.
perception = 28. Currently can see in the dark and see invisibility.
If anyone else needs light Elyas can cast light on one of their items.
If we have the time before anything else occurs, Elyas will sweep this room with detect magic while the others follow in
Spells prepared:
cantrips: Resistance, detect magic, light, mending Level 1: 2X protection from evil, mage armor, 3X magic missile, Comprehend Languages Level 2: Darkvision Resist Energy, 1/2X Scorching Ray, web, Glitterdust, see invisibility Level 3: 2X lightning bolt, Haste, 2 Fly, fireball Level 4: 2X summon monster IV, Dimensional Anchor, Greater Invisibility, Black tentacles Level 5: Baleful Polymorph, 2XPasswall, Summon Monster V, Telekenisis Level 6: 2X Chain Lightning, Summon Monster VI, Flesh to Stone Special: Acid Dart (8/8 remain, 1d6+4), pearl of power 1, bonded item, Quicken Rod 3 uses, dimensional steps (330/330)
Active effects: On Self: Mage Armor (11 hours) darkvision (11 hours) See invisibility (107 minutes)
On Party
Summon
Kiwina (Steve M) 131/131 HP | Current AC:22 or 26 vs AoO | HeP: 2 | Status: awake ! Swim 60' Tuesday June 6th, 2023 7:21:06 PM
Kiwina falls quiet with the door open, at least unless Elyas says the room is clear. He should not be leading the charge in this cramped place.
Ayotnom Ogini Hugh C 87/87 | AC : 25; Touch 19; Flat 19 CMD 28(30 vs Trip, Grapple or Disarm) Tuesday June 6th, 2023 9:02:20 PM
Ayotnom continues to wait for the first room to become less crowded either that or he goes all the way to the second room if he is kept waiting too long.
Tsak Rezar (Damien) AC22(22) (T15/F14) 112/113 HP| Falchion +4 2D4+3|Crossbow1 1D8+1 Status: Tuesday June 6th, 2023 9:39:52 PM
Aware that they are being noticed Tsak moves past Kiwina to stand between him and Wil, he'll keep moving next turn to go to the front with Elyas. Esmerelda, faster and slipperier than the half-orc moves thru to stand beside the stuffed puma, which she stops and sniffs at suspiciously. Her tail continues it's disatisfied flicking - the chemical smells are very foreign to her feline nose.
Rolth Niheow (BatMark) (112/114) HP | AC: 20; Touch: 13; CMD: 29 d20+17=35 Tuesday June 6th, 2023 10:15:18 PM
Rolth waits impatiently in the street for the smaller folk to move farther in. He intends to squeeze in once a space opens up. He'll still be keeping a keen eye and ear out for trouble in the meantime.
Perception = 35
DM Mark - Meow d10=7 ; d10=7 ; Wednesday June 7th, 2023 2:42:43 AM
Kiwina waits for Elyas to clear the room ahead. Falco, Mak, Rolth and Ayotnom all wait outside. It’s a fairly nice day, so not a bad day to be outside. It seems others think so too, as you seem to be attracting a crowd of onlookers. You’ve been out here for several minutes now.
One old woman walks up to stand beside the little Falco and the towering form of Ayotnom. She pokes the minotaur with a cane. ”Here now, what are you lot doing here?” Others seem tense, watching the bold crone.
Meanwhile, Tsak and Esmerelda have moved into the Foyer even as Elyas presses forward into the next room.
The brave mage can see several closed doors. He seems to be in a sort of kitchen area. Or maybe it’s some sort of work area. Hard to say really. This large kitchen contains many pots, pans, and a large fireplace. There are some food stuffs here, but most are spoiled or soon will be. The large wooden table looks like it has had meat chopped on it recently. It smells badly here. There is quite a bit of debris and refuse strewn about here.
A house cat hops up on the wooden table. It sits quietly, tail twitching, looking at Elyas. Perception DC 20:Highlight to display spoiler: {If you look closely, you can see there are stitches joining the cat’s fur in places.}
Elyas can see a room to the south-east of him. That room beyond seems to be another trophy room, lined with motionless creatures. Two wolves flank the entrance. Seemingly frozen in time are two humans and an elf, locked forever in combat. In two of the corners are two large orcs on pedestals, not quite as nicely prepared. Hung about are various birds and small animals. There is also a strange insect-like creature in the far corner.
Elyas scans the area for magic. He notes magic in the kitchen area, and in the room beyond. Anything beyond that will take more time, and the DM is interested to see what the rest of the party will do.
—------------------------------------ Here is your map.Please move yourselves accordingly.
Bear in mind that these buildings seem to be built for medium sized creatures. A large creature in your way may unintentionally provide cover against ranged attacks, a +4 bonus to AC.
Should it be necessary, the rules for squeezing are:
Squeezing: In some cases, you may have to squeeze into or through an area that isn't as wide as the space you take up. You can squeeze through or into a space that is at least half as wide as your normal space. Each move into or through a narrow space counts as if it were 2 squares, and while squeezed in a narrow space, you take a –4 penalty on attack rolls and a –4 penalty to AC.
When a Large creature (which normally takes up 4 squares) squeezes into a space that's 1 square wide, the creature's miniature figure occupies 2 squares, centered on the line between the 2 squares. For a bigger creature, center the creature likewise in the area it squeezes into.
A creature can squeeze past a creature while moving but it can't end its movement in an occupied square.
To squeeze through or into a space less than half your space's width, you must use the Escape Artist skill. You can't attack while using Escape Artist to squeeze through or into a narrow space, you take a –4 penalty to AC, and you lose any Dexterity bonus to AC.
Combat in cramped quarters may get tricky, but I’ll do my best to work it out.
JamesM, Subbing for Wil Wednesday June 7th, 2023 6:17:14 AM
Wil looked in and saw the animals sitting lifeless around the room. ‘Is that you Ted? Hey guys, that’s Ted…what did you say Ted? No, I don’t have any food. He says he a bit empty.”
Mak(JamesM)(111/111)|AC:28/18T/--FF|CMD 33| Arrows/10+1 CLB|16/11/6/16(RS)/-|(FA,WF,WS,WT,PBS,DA,RS,MS)**|1d8+16(MS)(20)x3)) d20+17=34 Wednesday June 7th, 2023 6:18:34 AM
Seeing that Rolth and the Minotaur weren't going in and hearing that Elyas had moved forward, Mak stepped past Rolth and Kiwina to stand at the door to the room Elyas had just entered.
"Careful old bean, it would be like a fellow of this type to have some special magic to sort you out." he said as he watched the cat closely.
"My friend. That cat isn't alive. It looks like something from some necromancers bag of tricks. See the stitching there on it's neck?" Mak said with a shudder. "Imagine what a pieced together person might look like. Might even need bolts to hold his head on. Let's make this quick chap. That cat is giving me the willies."
I'd like to remind everyone that for home invasions this one is happening very slowly. Plenty of time for it's occupants to make preparations, perhaps we should as well?"
Falco Ambersier (Ryan M) Status: Protection from Energy (F+E)+ SoFaith | 84/84 HP | | AC 19(24) (T15/F15) | Channel (5d6) 5/7 DC18 | Wednesday June 7th, 2023 9:38:28 AM
Hearing someone in the crowd ask a question Falco's tension grows even further, do we really need to attract this attention. He moves forward to the door and asks Kiwana. "If we are going in you guys need to actually make some room. People are watching."
______________________________ CURRENT SPELLS: 5th - 2+1 - Breath of Life (D) / Flame Strike DC20 / Heal 4th - 3+1 - Cure Critical (D) / Protection from Energy (3/3) 3rd - 4+1 - Cure Serious (D) / Bestow Curse / Dispel Magic / Blindness Deafness DC18 (2/2) 2nd- 5+1 - Cure Moderate (D) / Lesser Restoration / Resist Energy (2/2) / Silence DC17 (2/2) 1st- 6+1 - Cure Light Wounds (D) / Bless (2/2) / Endure Elements (2/2) / Shield of Faith (2/2) / C - Detect Magic / Light / Mending / Purify Food and Drink
Elyas (Ben A.) (82/92 HP | AC: 19; Touch:14; Flat: 16; CMD:15) | Status: mage armor d20+14=31 ; Wednesday June 7th, 2023 4:40:07 PM
Elyas quickly notices that the cat is not quite right (perception = 31)
This cat definitely looks like he's been pieced back together. Classic necromancy when a subject needs to be resurrected but is missing bits... nasty business. I'm seeing a bunch of other stuffed animals and people in the next room. definitely likely that at least some of them are zombies. or automatons. or summons... really lots of ways to animate helpers out there.
While waiting for the others to come in, Elyas tries to ignore the nasty cat and continues to perform his Detect Magic scan.
JamesM - Subbing for Wil Wednesday June 7th, 2023 7:52:13 PM
Wil watched the cat jump up on the table. ”Fluffy? Is that you?”
Kiwina (Steve M) 131/131 HP | Current AC:22 or 26 vs AoO | HeP: 2 | Status: awake ! Swim 60' Wednesday June 7th, 2023 8:13:58 PM
Kiwina chuckles at Falco's complaint -- even if he makes room, Rolth or Ayotnom would take up just as much when they enter. But he squeezes into the next room behind Elyas, casting light.on a spot of wall above the door as he passes. (In X7 if possible, or Y5 if not.)
Ayotnom Ogini Hugh C 87/87 | AC : 25; Touch 19; Flat 19 CMD 28(30 vs Trip, Grapple or Disarm) Wednesday June 7th, 2023 11:09:53 PM
Ayotnom says to the woman, "We are visiting with the taxidermist, we just have a large party and the taxidermist residence is rather small."
Tsak Rezar (Damien) AC22(22) (T15/F14) 112/113 HP| Falchion +4 2D4+3|Crossbow1 1D8+1 Status: Thursday June 8th, 2023 12:49:56 AM
Tsak and Esmerelda both move past Mak and into the room with Elyas. Esmerelda moves up to the table where the house cat sits and sniffs at it curiously. Her tail twitches. Tsak has his sword out and is ready for something to come alive and start pelting them with pots and pans.
DM Mark - "Classic necromancy." Thursday June 8th, 2023 2:35:37 AM
Outside the creepy house, Falco laments the crowded conditions inside. (Just a reminder that you can move through a friendly occupied space, so long as you don’t end your movement in an occupied square.)
Ayotnom and Rolth remain outside. Ayotnom replies to the old woman’s query, ”We are visiting with the taxidermist, we just have a large party and the taxidermist residence is rather small.”
She says, ”Taxidermist. Izzat what that pale fella does? Huh. So, you all came to pay some taxes? Voluntarily?”
Another speaks up. ”They’re calling it ‘taxes’ now? We just get charged to be under the Darts protection, and we’re pretty safe here. I think this fella might be scamming you. You should check in at Dart tower afore you give this fella your money.”
There seems to be general agreement on this point. Some of the townsfolk head off on some task or another, but a number seem more interested in watching your party.
One says to Falco, ”Hey there little birdman. How do you keep from gettin stepped on by these big guys. That bull and lion are huge. I’d be worried around them if I was you.”
Then he quickly turns to Ayotnom and Rolth. “No offense a’ course. I mean it’s not really your fault yer so big.”
—--------------------------------------------- Mak moves into the creepy house. It smells pretty bad in here. He notes that the cat is likely pieced together and may not even be alive. He also mentions a warning to his friends.
Wil seems to recognize several of the creatures in here and tries to strike up a conversation with them.
Kiwina casts a Light spell above the doorway in this larger room. This greatly helps those who cannot see in the dark.
As Tsak looks around, he half expect the pots and pans to come alive and attack the Petals. Esmerelda sniffs the cat. The cat regards it momentarily before returning its gaze to the party.
Elyas concentrates on his Detect Magic spell. Interestingly, he finds one source of magic is a spoon that sits on the wooden table next to the cat. He also finds two sources of magic in the adjoining trophy room - a short sword held by the elf, and a dagger held by one of the humans.
There are several doors from this large area. Aside from noises you make, it is eerily quiet in here. The strange cat sits on the table and stares at you impassively.
—------------------------------------ Here is your map.Please move yourselves accordingly.
See the prior DM post for a description of where you are.
Mak(JamesM)(111/111)|AC:28/18T/--FF|CMD 33| Arrows/20+1 CLB|16/11/6/16(RS)/-|(FA,WF,WS,WT,PBS,DA,RS,MS)**|1d8+16(MS)(20)x3)) Thursday June 8th, 2023 8:37:08 AM
Mak moved into the room next to Elyas with his bow out and ready. He took a moment to summon a bundle of arrows from his haversack to bring the count in his quiver to 20 even as he leaned over towards Elyas.
"If it goes sideways stay behind me. and ummm, do necromancers have fireballs? This is a dreadfully small space."
Falco Ambersier (Ryan M) Status: Protection from Energy (F+E)+ SoFaith | 84/84 HP | | AC 19(24) (T15/F15) | Channel (5d6) 5/7 DC18 | Thursday June 8th, 2023 10:21:06 AM
Frustrated with those that remain on watch Falco slips in, catching up with the others. He spots the projects the taxidermist and shutters, thinking of himself being mounted like that.
______________________________ CURRENT SPELLS: 5th - 2+1 - Breath of Life (D) / Flame Strike DC20 / Heal 4th - 3+1 - Cure Critical (D) / Protection from Energy (3/3) 3rd - 4+1 - Cure Serious (D) / Bestow Curse / Dispel Magic / Blindness Deafness DC18 (2/2) 2nd- 5+1 - Cure Moderate (D) / Lesser Restoration / Resist Energy (2/2) / Silence DC17 (2/2) 1st- 6+1 - Cure Light Wounds (D) / Bless (2/2) / Endure Elements (2/2) / Shield of Faith (2/2) / C - Detect Magic / Light / Mending / Purify Food and Drink
Elyas (Ben A.) (82/92 HP | AC: 19; Touch:14; Flat: 16; CMD:15) | Status: mage armor Thursday June 8th, 2023 1:42:20 PM
Elyas lets Mak take a front position and nods slightly at the question
"necromancer is just a specific name for a wizard that has focused their study on the undead. They will likely know many spell of other disciplines. One doesn't have to be a pyromancer to throw a fireball on occasion. I would expect Nevras to be able to use any spell you've seen any other wizard use.
To anyone who is in the room, Elyas will point out that the spoon, sword and dagger are magical.
Magical weapons on those. certainly makes it more likely that they are able to wield them in some manner. unfortunately detecting magic doesn't actually help me identify constructs or undead. does anyone have a spell to detect undead? that could be helpful...
He stares at the cat for a moment
"we should assume anything we say can be heard by Nevras. The cat isn't being aggressive but it could be his familiar, which would let him communicate with it or see through it. heck, it could be an illusion. but the thought of touching the undead animal to make sure wasn't something Elyas wanted to do at the moment.
Wilford Grimly (HP:106/106- AC: 26; Touch: 15; Flat: 27; CMD: 23) Thursday June 8th, 2023 4:18:26 PM
"There are so many here.. I know you and you.. and you." Wil moves with the group. (OOC: I will be more specific in upcoming posts.. I have to move where I've been posting to a new pc)
Rolth Niheow (BatMark) (112/114) HP | AC: 20; Touch: 13; CMD: 29 Thursday June 8th, 2023 5:37:19 PM
Rolth blinks, coming out of a momentary stupor, and realizes that it is time to move inside now that some space has cleared up and someone turned on a light. He squeezes behind Falco, and casts Heroism on himself, figuring that bad things are likely to happen sometime in the near future.
Effect Tracking: Heroism 500r (+2 morale to hit, saves, skills) Expeditious Retreat 49r (Move = 80’) Eagle’s Splendor 47r Low Light Vision (Darkvision when raging) Bardic Performance 0/12 rounds used (inactive) Rage 0/24 rounds used (inactive) Channel Energy 0/5 used Calming Touch 0/5 used
Spell Slots: Stabilize 0/1 used Divine Favor 0/3 used Bless 0/1 used Lesser Restoration 0/1 used Shield Other 0/1 used Prayer 0/1 used 1st level 1/5 used 2nd level 2/3 used
Ayotnom Ogini Hugh C 87/87 | AC : 25; Touch 19; Flat 19 CMD 28(30 vs Trip, Grapple or Disarm) Thursday June 8th, 2023 9:11:43 PM
Ayotnom tries to correct those who think a taxidermist has something to do with taxes and says, "Not tax collector, taxidermist, you know someone who stuffs dead animals into display pieces and trophies."
Ayotnom says to someone who points out how big he is, "No offense is taken, If I wasn't so big I wouldn't be waiting out here but it looks like things have opened up somewhat."
Ayotnom heads into the porch
Kiwina (Steve M) 131/131 HP | Current AC:22 or 26 vs AoO | HeP: 2 | Status: awake ! Swim 60' Thursday June 8th, 2023 11:16:13 PM
Kiwina takes Elyas's warning to heart, accepting that Nevras could spy through the cat.
"If I recall the outside of this place right, this door beside me leads into the hillside. And that one by Falco and Tsak probably goes to a dead end. Should we check that out first, to make sure we don't pass our host by?"
Kiwina (Steve M) 131/131 HP | Current AC:22 or 26 vs AoO | HeP: 2 | Status: awake ! Swim 60' Thursday June 8th, 2023 11:25:11 PM
OOC: Grabbed the wrong spell list -- corrected below.
Ranger: 1st -- Alarm, Resist Energy Druid: 0th -- Create Water, Detect Magic, Flare, Light 1st -- Obscuring Mist, CLW, CLW, Faerie Fire, Produce Flame 2nd -- Fog Cloud, Flaming Sphere, Gust of Wind, Soften Earth and Stone, Spider Climb 3rd -- Call Lightning, Neutralize Poison, Sleet Storm, Spike Growth, Wind Wall Aumakua have 1st level Ranger spell x1 Stormburst
Tsak gives Kiwina a nod and tests the door behind him to see if it will open. If it does so he'll open it carefully, standing to the side, and then poke his head around to have a look in (perception).
Esmerelda jumps up on the table beside the other cat and swats it curiously with her paw.
DM Mark - "Not tax collector, taxidermist." d20+4=24 ; d20+4=17 ; Friday June 9th, 2023 3:17:29 AM
Mak moves into the larger room, pulling out his bow and restocking his arrows. He tells Elyas to get behind him if there’s trouble. Elyas nods and then tells his friends the potential dangers of necromancers. He also points out the magical items he detected, suggesting that the weapons the elf and human figures hold may mean they will come to life. The mage wonders if perhaps the cat is the eyes and ears of this necromancer they seek. Or maybe it’s an illusion.
Kiwina worries about the cat, and suggests checking the nearby doors to make sure they do not contain any surprises.
Wil seems to know these stuffed creatures, talking to them as if they can hear him.
Falco enters the house. He finds the preserved creatures disturbing. Rolth follows Falco and casts Heroism on himself.
Ayotnom tries to explain what a taxidermist is. The old woman has a puzzled look for a moment and then replies, ”Oh sure. Stuffed animals, I seen that. Takes time, but they taste better that way. And they look mighty like a trophy in the center of a big table. But between you and me, I don’t think that’s what that pale fella does. It don’t smell like stuffed animals comin’ from that house. No sir, it smells right awful some times.” There is general agreement from the others on this last point.
Ayotnom gives up and heads into the house. The towns folk continue to peer into the open door at Ayotnom. Ayotnom has to bow his head a bit in this place as his horns scrape the ceiling.
Tsak opens the door nearest to him, and there is a strong, dank smell to this room suggesting the window here has never been opened. A stained and dirty bed dominates this room. The depression in the bed suggests an untidy medium creature sleeps here. There is a free standing wardrobe in here as well.
Esmerelda hops up on the table with the cat and takes a swipe at it. The cat’s lips curl into a snarl. It lashes Esmerelda with a claw (Crit vs AC 17, hits for 2 points of damage) before it jumps down. It dashes past Mak and Elyas as it runs to hide in the trophy room.
—------------------------------------ Here is your map.Please move yourselves accordingly.
Mak(JamesM)(111/111)|AC:28/18T/--FF|CMD 33| Arrows/20+1 CLB|16/11/6/16(RS)/-|(FA,WF,WS,WT,PBS,DA,RS,MS)**|1d8+16(MS)(20)x3)) Friday June 9th, 2023 9:20:41 AM "I've got a bad feeling about this." Mak stated as he tried to avoid the cluttered area behind him. He then took a look to the east and spotted the door there. After some quick mental calculations Mak thought to ask. "Gents, why would this fellow need a 20' wide set of doors in the street outside opening into that room?" he asked pointing to the eastern door with his gloved hand. "Kiwina, before you open that door behind you, we should check that large room first." Mak said as his voice trailed off. "My friends, if these "Stuffed" figures animate, we are quite surrounded. Strategically speaking, that's not a very desirable position, don't you know."
Elyas (Ben A.) (82/92 HP | AC: 19; Touch:14; Flat: 16; CMD:15) | Status: mage armor Friday June 9th, 2023 9:40:54 AM "I agree, there is a definite possibility that when we go in that room everything starts moving... but what other choice do we have? just destroy it all first? would be safer but then if we're wrong about this guy that would be quite rude of us. Falco, do you have any spells to destroy or inactivate the undead?"
I could always fireball the room and see what happens...
Falco Ambersier (Ryan M) Status: Protection from Energy (F+E)+ SoFaith | 84/84 HP | | AC 19(24) (T15/F15) | Channel (5d6) 5/7 DC18 | Friday June 9th, 2023 9:52:51 AM "My healing spells can be used to harm the undead, calling on the warper-sar to hurt them instead of healing us. Given the cramped quarters I am sure I can hit a lot of targets at once, if there undead. I don't think I have heard of something undead being stuffed though. More likely a construct of some sort."
______________________________ CURRENT SPELLS: 5th - 2+1 - Breath of Life (D) / Flame Strike DC20 / Heal 4th - 3+1 - Cure Critical (D) / Protection from Energy (3/3) 3rd - 4+1 - Cure Serious (D) / Bestow Curse / Dispel Magic / Blindness Deafness DC18 (2/2) 2nd- 5+1 - Cure Moderate (D) / Lesser Restoration / Resist Energy (2/2) / Silence DC17 (2/2) 1st- 6+1 - Cure Light Wounds (D) / Bless (2/2) / Endure Elements (2/2) / Shield of Faith (2/2) / C - Detect Magic / Light / Mending / Purify Food and Drink
Orisons: Detect Magic, Resistance, Light, Guidance Lv1: Protection from Evil/Chaos..etc, Entropic Shield, Divine Favor, Bless, Shield of Faith, - D: True Strike Lv2: Spiritual Weapon, Spiritual Weapon, Spiritual Weapon, Spiritual Weapon D: Touch of Idiocy (if needed - Cure Moderate Wounds) Lv3: Wind Wall, Dispel Magic, Searing Light, - D: protection from energy Lv4: Magic Weapon, Greater, Imbue with Spell Ability - D: Confusion Shadow Dancer Special: Hide in plain sight Channel 4d6 Goblin seal of... of Sanctuary:
Like the 1st level cleric spell, but (1 round/level) + 1d3 rounds, thereby giving at least 2 rounds at a low level. Once cast the seal breaks, and becomes deactivated. The seal Expires on 3/12/2024
Rolth Niheow (BatMark) (112/114) HP | AC: 20; Touch: 13; CMD: 29 d20+17=19 ; Friday June 9th, 2023 4:20:17 PM
Rolth waits on the smaller folk to clear out of the more open areas of the room. Al the while keeping an eye out for whatever bad thing happens next.
Perception = 19
Tsak Rezar (Damien) AC22(22) (T15/F14) 112/113 HP| Falchion +4 2D4+3|Crossbow1 1D8+1 Status: Saturday June 10th, 2023 3:46:36 AM
Tsak rolls his eyes, wouldn't be the first time someone hid in a wardrobe. He crosses the room to open it up and check it out before returning to the same spot in the kitchen.
Esmerelda lets out a yowl of pain and annoyance, but she doesn't follow the other cat. She stays on the table licking her paw where it was scratched by the other cat and looking toward the room Tsak is investigating.
Kiwina (Steve M) 131/131 HP | Current AC:22 or 26 vs AoO | HeP: 2 | Status: awake ! Swim 60' d20+20=21 ; Saturday June 10th, 2023 1:00:41 PM
Kiwina thinks the kitchen area where Esmerelda is should be carved into the hillside, just like whatever's behind the door beside him. He looks at the walls, ceiling, and floor to see if any are stone.
(Perception = 21)
Rolth Niheow (BatMark) (112/114) HP | AC: 20; Touch: 13; CMD: 29 Sunday June 11th, 2023 6:29:32 PM
Rolth will also cast a Toros Taur Try (minotaur version) on himself to further boost his Perception as we explore this place.
Ayotnom Ogini Hugh C 87/87 | AC : 25; Touch 19; Flat 19 CMD 28(30 vs Trip, Grapple or Disarm) Sunday June 11th, 2023 7:35:42 PM
Ayotnom wears his horns capped so they wouldn't carve up the ceiling. (OOC: Ayotnom exchanged his natural horn attack for the improve grapple feat so Ayotnom wears his horns capped)
After Ayotnom entered the dwelling he sees a pathway deeper in that would give him a place to wait so he moves there. (OOC: see map)
DM Mark - "I could always fireball the room and see what happens..." Monday June 12th, 2023 2:22:50 AM
Mak wonders about the large stone doors on the outside of this building. He worries about the stuffed creatures coming to life, and suggests opening the door at the other end of the trophy room before opening the door where Kiwina is standing. This leads Elays to ask Falco if he can do something that would hurt undead. Alternatively, Elyas suggests just torching the whole place.
Falco says that he can indeed channel energy to affect undead, but he’s not sure there are any undead here.
There is a great deal of furnishings, stuffed creatures, and debris here, and Elyas can see that it would not be difficult to start a fire in here - a fireball would certainly do the trick. Knowledge Local DC 5:Highlight to display spoiler: {Lighting a building on fire is a town is generally frowned upon. It rarely stays confined to one building.}
Wil decides to summon a Hound Archon. A round later, standing before the shadowdancer is an imposing figure, a furry, muscled form with a well-groomed wolf head holding a polished broadsword . Its eyes dart about as it nods to Wil.
Rolth waits as keeps a sharp eye about. He casts Taur’s Try to boost his Perception.
Esmerelda lets out a howl and licks its tiny wound. Tsak moves into the apparent bedroom and checks the wardrobe. As he moves in, he can see that the floor is covered in Underclothing, papers, bits of cloth which creates a carpet of sorts, but not a very pleasant one. The wardrobe opens and is filled with clothing, most of it a bit dirty. He spots a small, locked chest in the bottom of the wardrobe.
If you have line of sight into this room, Perception DC 25:Highlight to display spoiler: {You notice Tsak disturb a scroll tube amongst the debris as he moves into the room.}
Kiwina wonders about the kitchen area. He estimates it is built into the hillside, and that being surrounded by earth would make it easier to maintain a livable temperature in here. He’s not sure what the walls and ceiling are made of as they are plastered and whitewashed. Well, it was a whitewash. Now it’s more of a tanwash with bits of staining here and there. As he is looking around he sees a fly crawl from under the door where he stands and buzz around the room.
Ahyotnom moves further into the structure. (You noted Ayotnom’s horns are capped and he does not have a horn attack, but this is not noted on his character sheet.)
—------------------------------------ Here is your map.Please move yourselves accordingly.
Mak(JamesM)(111/111)|AC:28/18T/--FF|CMD 33| Arrows/20+1 CLB|16/11/6/16(RS)/-|(FA,WF,WS,WT,PBS,DA,RS,MS)**|1d8+16(MS)(20)x3)) d20+17=26 ; d20+3=4 ; Monday June 12th, 2023 8:05:49 AM
The fireball idea seemed fine to Mak. In his mind this place needed to be purged. Just as Mak sees Tsak move into the room he notices that the half-orc bumped something on the floor. "Tsak, what's that tube looking thing you kicked on the floor?" he said as he shifted a little to the east to get a better look into the bedroom.
"All this death, it would make sense if the man used these rooms in the hillside to keep his subject matter in good shape, temperature controlled don't you you know. Let's not open those doors until we have to, jolly good?" Mak said as he thought about all the places of late they had to explore where the smell wasn't desirable. Made those excursions in the ocean pleasant in comparison.
Mak removed his torn legging from his pack and wrapped it carefully around his face after wetting it with a bit of water. There, tied to his face he hoped to offset any nauseating odors they might encounter.
OOC: KS: local +3, Roll 4. Fail Perception +17, Roll 26
Circumstance Bonus against nausea?
Falco Ambersier (Ryan M) Status: Protection from Energy (F+E)+ SoFaith | 84/84 HP | | AC 19(24) (T15/F15) | Channel (5d6) 5/7 DC18 | Monday June 12th, 2023 10:38:49 AM
Falco looks about shifting uncomfortably from foot to foot with his bow at the ready. He mumbles to him self about breaking and entering and it being a good thing this is a lawless community. The talk is just nerves.
______________________________ CURRENT SPELLS: 5th - 2+1 - Breath of Life (D) / Flame Strike DC20 / Heal 4th - 3+1 - Cure Critical (D) / Protection from Energy (3/3) 3rd - 4+1 - Cure Serious (D) / Bestow Curse / Dispel Magic / Blindness Deafness DC18 (2/2) 2nd- 5+1 - Cure Moderate (D) / Lesser Restoration / Resist Energy (2/2) / Silence DC17 (2/2) 1st- 6+1 - Cure Light Wounds (D) / Bless (2/2) / Endure Elements (2/2) / Shield of Faith (2/2) / C - Detect Magic / Light / Mending / Purify Food and Drink
Elyas (Ben A.) (82/92 HP | AC: 19; Touch:14; Flat: 16; CMD:15) | Status: mage armor d20+18=22 ; d6+4=10 ; Monday June 12th, 2023 4:53:09 PM
Elyas discards the idea of fireballing the room, not used to being on a mission in a heavily populated area. 'Sneaking' into a workshop is one thing, torching it and maybe setting the neighborhood on fire is too far.
However, maybe there's other ways of testing out the stuffed animal room.
Elyas casts a spell, warning the others to avoid going in the room full of animals (not that anyone looked like they were planning on it anyways) Black oily tentacles spring up from the ground, grasping and slithering around the feet of the stuffed creatures. [cast black tentacles. should be enough with a 20 foot spread to cover every creature space in the room, centered on the closer of the two H spaces.]
22 vs CMD for any creatures in the room, if they fail they are grappled and take 10 damage.
[ooc if I'm reading this the right way, Black Tentacles makes 'Every creature within the area of the spell is the target of a combat maneuver check made to grapple each round at the beginning of your turn', so it should go after any creatures in the room. even if an undead is just chilling and standing still, it seems like the tentacles would still go after them as it doesn't require the caster to target individual enemies or even have LOS to creatures in the area. Let me know if I'm missing anything there]
Spells prepared:
cantrips: Resistance, detect magic, light, mending Level 1: 2X protection from evil, mage armor, 3X magic missile, Comprehend Languages Level 2: Darkvision Resist Energy, 1/2X Scorching Ray, web, Glitterdust, see invisibility Level 3: 2X lightning bolt, Haste, 2 Fly, fireball Level 4: 2X summon monster IV, Dimensional Anchor, Greater Invisibility, Black tentacles Level 5: Baleful Polymorph, 2XPasswall, Summon Monster V, Telekenisis Level 6: 2X Chain Lightning, Summon Monster VI, Flesh to Stone Special: Acid Dart (8/8 remain, 1d6+4), pearl of power 1, bonded item, Quicken Rod 3 uses, dimensional steps (330/330)
Active effects: On Self: Mage Armor (11 hours) darkvision (11 hours) See invisibility (105 minutes) Black Tentacles (current DC 22, 10 damage, 12 rounds remain)
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