DM Mark - A visitor Tuesday September 5th, 2023 8:10:27 PM
(DM Mark pinch hitting for a bit.)
The Petals are a bit puzzled. No one's drink seems to taste off except Tsak’s. Well, and once Tsak drinks from another’s cup, he finds it turns to vinegar as well, and stays that way even after Tsak returns the mug. Fortunately, Tsak will find that non-alcholic drinks seem unaffected. So at least he will not die of thirst. Still, it’s depressing to think he may never drink again.
Some of the other bar patrons seem to pick up on this, and scoot away with wary glances in the heroes direction.
The Petals make their way back to their ship, and direct Ramsey to hoist sail and set out for the Taur Isles. Ransey says to Captain Kiwina, ”Yessir Cap’n. But, well, we’ll be needing to know which Isle sir - Centaur Isle, Minotaur Isle, Liontaur Isle or Bridge Isle?” Ramsey has been prepared, and stores were brought aboard for many days of sailing if needed. He gives the orders and the crew jumps to action. Soon, The Rose is underway.
It feels good to be back at sea, have the wind in your hair and feathers, and to shake the dirt of Dirt City off your feet. A city run and ruled by thieves, Dirt City was an interesting experience, and will live in your memories for some time. Most have heard about Dirt City all their lives as an important trading port and a place to be avoided.
Falco climbs into the crowsnest for a bit where the wind is even more exhilarating.
The mood among the Petals is subdued, what with the loss of Rolth and then Wil’s decision to pursue other horizons. And who knows, you may even see one or both of them again one day. Afterall, Gargul seemed to have some plans for Roth in the Wold.
Tsak crawls into his bunk, a bit depressed at having lost friends and alcohol all in the same trip. The following morning, as Tsak and the others are on deck, there is an audible *POP* and a small creature appears near Tsak. This little guy has red skin and small wings that look too small to carry his bloated body. His head has little horns and a rather large nose. And his long tail ends in a stinger. The crew is a bit alarmed. The thing says, ”Relax, relax. I ain’t here to hurt ya. I just got a message to deliver.”
As he looks at Tsak, he clucks his tongue and says, ”One does not refer to the Lord of Life and Death as a ‘bloke’ in his presence. Don’t blame me that the Boss ain’t got no sense o’ humor. He don’t cut nobody slack. Anyhoo, I figure he made his point and I can lift that little curse off of you. Take this as a reminder.” He presents Tsak with an ornate clay stein. It appears to be filled with some sort of frothy liquid and has a large “G” prominently on the front.
If Tsak tastes it, it seems to be some of the finest ale he’s ever had. And it doesn’t taste like vinegar!
If any of you have questions for Gimp, go ahead and ask them, as he will depart next post.
If you know which of the Taur Isles you intend, let Ramsey know.
(Tsak now has a rather ornate mug, and a pretty good story. This mug is a fate item - it cannot be bought or sold, but it can be given away. Any liquid placed in it will be chilled or warmed to a pleasant temperature as Tsak wishes. The temperature of the beverage in it is never enough to cause damage.)
You’ll have at least 5 days on the water, more depending on what Isle you choose.
—------------------------------------------ I was a bit remiss handing out hero points. Everyone gets two hero points, in addition to the one hero point everyone gets for leveling up. There are a couple of you that have not finished getting your character sheets done - please do so ASAP.
Also, I think you’re hauling around a BUNCH of loot. What are you going to do with that? When you do divide it up, please do your best to get everyone roughly even on wealth - it is the goal in the Wold that we keep party members roughly the even as best we can.
Kiwina (Steve M) 131/131 HP | Current AC:22 or 26 vs AoO | HeP: 0 | Status: awake ! Swim 60' Tuesday September 5th, 2023 10:12:11 PM
Kiwina says to Ramsey, and the group in general, "Minotaur isle is closest, so let's go there and deliver the news. Any memorial should be at Bridge Island, but we should also see if the liontaurs want to send anyone to attend it -- or any of the islands, I guess. I assume the Purple Duke will tell them the news and pass along that question if we ask nicely."
Kiwina adds that he might try crafting a wand while they travel.
Ayotnom Ogini Hugh C 92/92 | AC : 22; Touch 20; Flat 15 CMD 32(34 vs Trip, Grapple or Disarm) Tuesday September 5th, 2023 11:42:42 PM
Ayotnom says, "Your reasoning is solid Kiwana, let's set a heading as you suggest."
With respect to the loot Ayotnom says, "What was in that haul again? I feel like it has been ages since we found it and we've hardly discussed it till now."
Tsak Rezar (Damien) AC22(22) (T15/F14) 113/113 HP| Falchion +4 2D4+3|Crossbow1 1D8+1 Status: Wednesday September 6th, 2023 1:18:09 AM
Tsak gives the winged creature a wink. Mate, where I come from Bloke is an honorific, but point taken. Tsak mentally adds an item to his store of diplomacy related rules: #27 Don't upset a God, they mess with your beer!
Minotaur Isle sounds good for a start. What was the name of that little isle where we found Grovas' lair? I'd like to bury Esmerelda there.
(OOC was the DM comment by Dom on Fri Sep 1 about replacing an animal companion meant for Mak and Elmer or Tsak and Esmerelda or both?)
Mak(JamesM)(123/123)|AC:28/18T/--FF|CMD 34| Arrows/14+1 CLB|16/11/6/16(RS)/-|(FA,WF,WS,WT,DA,RS,MS,IG)**|1d8+15(MS)(20)x3)) Wednesday September 6th, 2023 8:03:52 AM
Mak nodded. Minotaur isle to deliver the news and arrange for the memorial. Mak also wondered about Tsak being delusional about gods, but when the imp showed up Mak sat back for a moment. "What being that refers to himself as a god would worry about what Tsak said? Is he that insecure about his omni powers? And what good entity sends an agent of evil to do his bidding?"
Falco Ambersier (Ryan M) Status: None | 75/84 HP | | AC 19(24) (T15/F15) | Channel (6d6) 5/7 DC18 | Wednesday September 6th, 2023 9:29:01 AM "It does seem a little petty Mak. One of the immortal powers insists their followers all show up one day a week at the same time and sing, that seems petty to. Of course we don't know what they do all day I guess."
Falco will take some time to go over the items they have acquired to make sure their is nothing that would suit him.
Elyas (Ben A.) (59/92 HP | AC: 21; Touch:15; Flat: 18; CMD:15) | status: Wednesday September 6th, 2023 10:49:45 AM
Elyas laughs a bit at the reason for the minor curse on Tsak
"I agree, definitely a petty move. but when you're a powerful being I guess you can be a bit petty at times. if only there was a written code of what you should or should not say when in the presence of that Bloke
Mak(JamesM)(123/123)|AC:28/18T/--FF|CMD 34| Arrows/14+1 CLB|16/11/6/16(RS)/-|(FA,WF,WS,WT,DA,RS,MS,IG)**|1d8+15(MS)(20)x3)) Wednesday September 6th, 2023 12:36:08 PM ”Probably a plant.” Mak said.
DM Mark - A visitor departs d20=2 ; Wednesday September 6th, 2023 8:39:32 PM
Kiwina directs Ramsey to head first to Minotaur Isle where the Petals will speak with the Purple Duke. He adds that they may continue on the Bridge Isle. Mak and Ayotnom agree. Tsak agrees, but adds that he would like to bury Esmerelda’s remains on the small island near Liontaur Isle where Grovas lair was. Ramsey responds, ”Aye aye Cap’n. Well make for Castle Violet then, unless you prefer another port on Minotaur Isle.”
The subject of the party’s treasure comes up. Ayotnom asks what the party has. Falco goes over the items. (Please tell me someone was keeping track of this.)
Gimp the Imp stands in your midst, having just lifted a minor curse. Tsak gives him a wink, and clarifies that he meant no disrespect by using the term “bloke,” but makes a mental note to not upset a god. Mak asks, "What being that refers to himself as a god would worry about what Tsak said? Is he that insecure about his omni powers? And what good entity sends an agent of evil to do his bidding?" Falco and Elyas agree it seems a bit petty for a god to care about being called a “bloke.”
Gimp laughs as he replies, ”Well, I wouldn't call Lord Gargul insecure. Nor good or evil for that matter. Those kinda’ of limitations only apply to mortal folk. I’m not saying the Boss don’t get his nose out of joint from time to time, but he’s got his reasons. And I think it was more that the word “bloke” seemed a little too casual a way to address the Boss in his presence. I once seen a hero that couldn’t speak for months, and another that had to carry a rock for a long time - just as a reminder to straighten up after their visit with the Lord of Life and Death. Keep making jokes if you want, but I wouldn’t advise it.
“As for your assumption that I am evil, for a mortal you’re a little judgey there Mak. I can’t think of anything I’ve done today that would lead you to think that, but you’re entitled to your opinion. I’ll just chalk it up to you bein’ a noble and all, and encourage you to learn to look past a person’s appearance.
“Anyhoo, no offense meant or taken. Quite the opposite in fact. You should know your group is important to the Big Guy - I wouldn’t be here if you weren’t. He’s expecting great things from the Petals of the Eight Petaled Rose.”
He turns to Ramsey. “Keep an eye on them Ramsey - these guys are goin’ places.”
“Speaking a’ which, I’m late for about a thousand things. Maybe I can get that dead Time Lord to run things back a bit so I can get caught up. Probably not - the Boss don’t like me messen’ with the dead. I’d say see you later, but that’s actually not something you want. I’ll say farewell instead. Or maybe fare-more-carefully.” There is an audible *POP* as the little imp vanishes.
(You will have 5 days of time on the ship. Do you do anything with that time? You’ll be in port next post. Esmerelda might be a little ripe by then - do you do anything to address that. How do you arrive, any preparations?)
Ayotnom Ogini Hugh C 92/92 | AC : 22; Touch 20; Flat 15 CMD 32(34 vs Trip, Grapple or Disarm) Thursday September 7th, 2023 12:07:04 AM
Ayotnom plans to go through the treasure and see if there is anything he wants.
(OOC: I wasn't keeping track; was this ever in an email?)
Kiwina (Steve M) 131/131 HP | Current AC:22 or 26 vs AoO | HeP: 0 | Status: awake ! Swim 60' Thursday September 7th, 2023 12:10:44 AM
Kiwina points out that there is an unguent of timelessness or two among the items left on the boat, if Tsak wants to use one.
As for crafting a wand, he thinks that for a first attempt he will keep things simple -- pass without trace.
(OOC: Unfortunately, BatMark usually handled the treasure. We'll have to fix that.)
Tsak Rezar (Damien) AC22(22) (T15/F14) 113/113 HP| Falchion +4 2D4+3|Crossbow1 1D8+1 Status: Thursday September 7th, 2023 8:04:15 AM
(OOC I thought I had used the ungent of timelessness on Esmerelda already, certainly it was my intention to do so at the same time we used it on Rolth.)
Tsak takes no offence from the imp's words, don't shoot the messenger and all that. He goes below decks and takes care to preserve Esmerelda as best he can using the ungent that Kiwina points out to him.
The ranger spends his 5 days helping with the cooking, with sailing the ship, keeping lookout and fishing.
Mak(JamesM)(123/123)|AC:28/18T/--FF|CMD 34| Arrows/14+1 CLB|16/11/6/16(RS)/-|(FA,WF,WS,WT,DA,RS,MS,IG)**|1d8+15(MS)(20)x3)) Thursday September 7th, 2023 8:19:30 AM
Mak had the glasses, or goggles as some described them, that helped one see in the night. It was all he had wanted from the treasure horde, but he was also collecting a fair bit of kit and didn't want to see grabby. "Though I could make good use of these, if another wants them I'll give them up readily."
OOC: Mak is over his WBL by the exact amount of those goggles. He does have some extra gold he can put back in the pot to help offset that, but no where near the amount to make him even out.
Falco Ambersier (Ryan M) Status: None | 75/84 HP | | AC 19(24) (T15/F15) | Channel (6d6) 5/7 DC18 | Thursday September 7th, 2023 11:03:19 AM
Before Gimp vanishes. "Should we just call him Boss like you do? Its a pretty good greeting but also kind of casual, like calling people Boss because you can't remember their names?"
Once this conversation is done Falco will cast Gentle Repose on Esmerelda. "I think I can take care of Esmerelda easier." {ooc: I did not reset my spells with the last rest I am hoping you will let me swap in Gentle Repose for the trip. Falco would clearly know to do that.}
DM Mark - Arrival at Minotaur Isle Thursday September 7th, 2023 9:07:20 PM
Just before Gimp the Imp disappears, Falco asks him if anyone else can use the term “Boss” to refer to Lord Gargul. Gimp smiles as he says, “Well, I guess that’s up to you. But be careful what you wish for.”
The trip to Minotaur Isle takes 5 days. The days are a bit cold, but it only rains twice. The seas are a little rough, but Ramsey is to be commended for his food selection - you eat pretty well on the trip. Ramsey will kindly remind Captain Kiwina he needs a couple hundred gold to restore the ship’s cash for future supplies, and to pay the crew.
Tsak keeps busy helping out around the ship. There is some discussion of using Unguent of Timelessness on Esmerelda’s body, but Falco offers to cast Gentle Repose instead.
Kiwian works on crafting a wand of Pass Without Trace.
Ayotnom looks over the treasure (below).
After 5 days at sea, the Rose pulls into the port near Castle Violet on the south end of Minotaur Isle. There are no docks here. Rather, ships weigh anchor and use a smaller boat to reach the shore, either one they carry or they can signal to the shore that transport is required.
Who goes ashore, and what do you do? You know the Purple Duke is most often at Castle Violet, but is occasionally in Imod City or somewhere else.
—----------------------------------------------------------------- Sounds like maybe Rolth was keeping track of treasure. Below is my best guess at what you found. I may have missed something, so don’t let me know. A few things you already identified, and I figured you identified the rest on your voyage.
1 Potion of Expeditious Retreat 1 Potion of Gaseous Form 1 Kukri +1 1 Composite Short Bow (+2 STR) 1 MWK Kukri 1 Cloak of Elvenkind 1 MWK Thieves Tools 1 Ring of Protection +3 1 Ring of Blinking 1 slotless Cloak of Resistance +4 1 headband of alluring Charisma +4 10,000 gp Boots of Flying 1 Scroll of Vampiric Touch Gems worth 10,000 gp 1 Cloak of Resistance +2 1 Sustaining Spoon 1 Adamantine Dagger +2 1 Short Sword +3 1 potion of cure moderate wounds 1 Potion of displacement 1 potion of invisibility 1 Robe of Bones 1 Adamantine Dagger +4 1 Amulet of Natural Armor +3 1 belt of mighty constitution +2 1 cloak of resistance +2, 1 goggles of night, 1 headband of vast intelligence +2 1 spellbook 1 crystal for magic jar 12 onyx gems (25 gp value each) 623 gp Documents from Nevras’ lair
As you divide up the proceeds, do your best to get everyone at about the same ending wealth. I know Mak needs an item and may be a bit ahead of the rest as he reconciled a previous item. I’m not worried about minor discrepancies.
Ayotnom Ogini Hugh C 92/92 | AC : 22; Touch 20; Flat 15 CMD 32(34 vs Trip, Grapple or Disarm) Friday September 8th, 2023 12:18:47 AM
Ayotnom considers his needs versus the treasure list. (OOC: will try to stake a claim this weekend; sorry)
Mak(JamesM)(123/123)|AC:28/18T/--FF|CMD 34| Arrows/14+1 CLB|16/11/6/16(RS)/-|(FA,WF,WS,WT,DA,RS,MS,IG)**|1d8+15(MS)(20)x3)) Friday September 8th, 2023 8:07:01 AM
Mak stopped Kiwina and then handed Ramsey a small sack of gold. (1000 gp) "Reequip the Rose and use some as a bonus to the crew. Call it hazard pay."
OOC: I don't want that Adamantine dagger being sold. If no one wants it Mak would like to equip it later when his WBL increases. That being said, someone really needs to get it since it's good against the DR we've been encountering.
Elyas (Ben A.) (59/92 HP | AC: 21; Touch:15; Flat: 18; CMD:15) | status: Friday September 8th, 2023 9:18:21 AM
Elyas is not interested in much of the loot that was found, and figures they are better off selling most of it. he does spend some time studying the spellbook they took from Nevras during the journey.
Falco Ambersier (Ryan M) Status: None | 75/84 HP | | AC 19(24) (T15/F15) | Channel (6d6) 5/7 DC18 | Friday September 8th, 2023 9:54:07 AM
Falco will spend some time reviewing the documents that were taken from Nevaras lair. He is not expecting much and knows he is not as bright as he once was but still it is worth a look. As they go over the loot Falco finds there is not much that he wants. The bow is nice but he is not strong enough.
"We should keep the dagger, it doesn't make sense for me to wield it but it is good to have. I have been saving gold for some big buys so I vote for celling what we don't need."
DM Mark - Arrival at Minotaur Isle Friday September 8th, 2023 9:13:12 PM
The party looks over their loot, each considering what might be useful.
There are no docks here. Rather, ships weigh anchor and use a smaller boat to reach the shore, either one they carry or they can signal to the shore that transport is required.
Does everyone stay aboard? Who goes ashore, and what do you do? You know the Purple Duke is most often at Castle Violet, but is occasionally in Imod City or somewhere else.
Kiwina (Steve M) 131/131 HP | Current AC:22 or 26 vs AoO | HeP: 0 | Status: awake ! Swim 60' Friday September 8th, 2023 10:13:02 PM "We should take the folding boat, Kiwina suggests.
"Also, they won't have expected us, but the Rose is distinctive. No doubt we've been recognized and should expect questions about our missing colleagues."
Ayotnom Ogini Hugh C 92/92 | AC : 22; Touch 20; Flat 15 CMD 32(34 vs Trip, Grapple or Disarm) Sunday September 10th, 2023 11:33:24 AM
Ayotnom says, "The amulet of natural armor and ring of deflection are better than the ones I have. If there are no objections I would claim them and the potion of cure moderate wounds as I have no means to cast healing spells myself. As for the dagger if no one wants to equip it I say we make it another party item and we each float a share of the cost. If no one wants any of the other treasure save for the documents and spellbook which we wizards had been talking about previously I'd be happy to go to the catacombs and sell the lot and then divy up the loot after. With respect to where we are now I should probably go ashore since I am a minotaur."
DM Mark - DM Message Sunday September 10th, 2023 7:51:52 PM
A few administrative things from your DM.
The next module has been approved for use, so we're ready when you are. I know folks had some things they wanted to accomplish at a couple of the Taur Isles. I want to encourage you to take as much time as you need, but to get these tasks addressed over this next week please.
As for treasure, you already have two "party items" and it has been a mild challenge to make sure everyone records their share of these two items. For something as singular as a magic dagger, it doesn't really seem like a party item. Do you each really have an interest in the dagger? Will you all use it from time to time?
If you have not finished updating your character sheet, get it done.
Finally, you will have a new player joining your group soon.
Mak(JamesM)(123/123)|AC:28/18T/--FF|CMD 34| Arrows/14+1 CLB|16/11/6/16(RS)/-|(FA,WF,WS,WT,DA,RS,MS,IG)**|1d8+15(MS)(20)x3)) Monday September 11th, 2023 8:24:51 AM
Mak was very interested in talking to the Purple Duke, though that honorary looked nothing like the butterfly he was named for. The young warrior was also wanting to go to bridge island to arrange for the memorial.
While he was on Minotaur Isle Mak sought to make arrangements for Rolth's memorial as he contacted the appropriate craftsmen that would be needed to erect the modest structure once the land was secured. For that he started with associates of the Purple Duke to contact Bridge Island authorities to arrange for a location for the shrine.
OOC: I propose we sell Rolth's equipment to pay for the memorial. Perhaps also a bless spell on the reader when you read the inscription on the monument aloud? Make the enchantment permanent so it can be used multiple times per day? Should be enough value in Rolth's gear to pay for that. Also in fine D&D tradition have an item of Rolth's placed inside the monument for safekeeping for when he returns.
Elyas (Ben A.) (59/92 HP | AC: 21; Touch:15; Flat: 18; CMD:15) | status: Monday September 11th, 2023 8:56:57 AM
Elyas will go witht he group that talks with the Duke. He wants to help make sure that Rolth's memorial is taken care of, but otherwise is eager to continue on before the trail gets cold. Just because Nevras was defeated didn't mean that this was anywhere close ot over yet.
Falco Ambersier (Ryan M) Status: None | 75/84 HP | | AC 19(24) (T15/F15) | Channel (6d6) 5/7 DC18 | Monday September 11th, 2023 11:34:42 AM
Falco joins the expedition to the Purple Duke in the folding boat. As the Duke figuratively and literally launched the Petals as a group it seems a proper show of respect.
As to the memorial Focal loves the suggestion of a permeant bless spell being placed on it. It seems fitting the even in death Rolth would support those around him. ____________________________ Channel: 7/7
Ayotnom Ogini Hugh C 92/92 | AC : 22; Touch 20; Flat 15 CMD 32(34 vs Trip, Grapple or Disarm) Monday September 11th, 2023 8:30:43 PM
Ayotnom agrees with the thoughts on the memorial. He also asks the others "So shall we sell everything except for the amulet, ring, spellbook, documents, potion and dagger? I'll also toss in my lesser items I'm selling and then take my items out of the total to adjust were we are.
DM Mark - The Duke Monday September 11th, 2023 9:02:59 PM
The Petals pile into the Folding Boat. It extends into a ship 24 feet long, 8 feet wide, and 6 feet deep. It has benches and seating for 5 sets of oars. As the Petals climb down into the folding boat, Ramsey says, ”Oy, just remarkable. I never get tired of seeing that magic boat take shape. Awright lads, go help them out.” At Ramsey’s direction, six of the crew also go with them to help row the boat to shore.
As you come in, you are met by a couple of the Duke’s guards familiar to you. One is Gadin, a young minotaur that helped the Petals in their investigation of a murder on Minotaur Isle. ”Ah, welcome back my friends. I was told The Rose had arrived. The Heroes of Minotaur Isle are always welcome here. How may I be of service?”
The heroes say they have business with the Purple Duke. ”Well, then. You are in luck, the Purple Duke is here in at Castle Violet. I will take you there. As you go Gadin will say he’s heard there is some disagreement between the Duke and the priests on the isle over where some ceremonial item will be. It seems the Duke has prevaliled for now, but you sense some unease about this.
Soon, you arrive at Castle Violet. The Duke, it seems, was entertaining some nobles, but the guards are instructed to bring the Petals in. You are ushered into a grand study. Large plush chairs are here, made for large sized folk. As you enter, you see some servants bringing in some medium sized chairs as well as a small one. Fine finger foods of meat, cheese, fruit and bread are brought in and several flagons of liquid are brought as well. Normal sized cups are added.
The Duke says, ”Ah, the Petals have returned. Welcome. What brings you here? What news? What news? Anything to top vanquishing that dragon over on Liontaur Isle? It seems that some of your group have stayed behind.”
He makes a brief introduction of the Petals to Lord Havenpuf and Lord Jasenwell.
Did all six of you go? Did any of the Petals stay on the ship?
(OOC: Rolth's body and his gear were no where to be found after the visit with Gargul.)
Tsak Rezar (Damien) AC22(22) (T15/F14) 113/113 HP| Falchion +4 2D4+3|Crossbow1 1D8+1 Status: Monday September 11th, 2023 9:53:52 PM
(OOC apologies for not posting on Friday/weekend)
Tsak went aboard with the rest. Prior to the trip he had a look at the treasure and swapped his kukri for the adamantine dagger, the thing is just so shiny.
In response to the Duke Unfortunately m'lord those that stayed behind did so on a, ah, permanent basis if you know what I mean. We wanted to speak to you about erecting a memorial to the our fallen comrade Rolth on Bridge Isle.
(OOC I'll look up the other things tonight and let you know what else I want tomorrow)
Kiwina (Steve M) 131/131 HP | Current AC:22 or 26 vs AoO | HeP: 0 | Status: awake ! Swim 60' Monday September 11th, 2023 10:03:59 PM "Your Grace, we come before you with a humble yet heartfelt request. Our comrade, Rolth Niheow, who was known and loved by many across these islands, has fallen while defending us against a dark necromancer and his foul creations." Kiwina pauses to see the response to this news before continuing.
"Rolth was not only a valiant warrior but also a visionary who dreamed of peace and unity among the taurs. In his honor and memory, we would like to build a memorial on Bridge Island. This will not only pay tribute to his sacrifice but also serve as a beacon of hope, reminding us all of the dream he held dear - a dream of harmony and cooperation among our diverse kind.
"I hope you will support our attempt to ensure that Rolth's legacy lives on, inspiring future generations to work towards the peaceful coexistence he envisioned. Your Grace, we humbly request your blessing and assistance in making this memorial a reality, a fitting tribute to a hero whose dream was nothing short of a brighter, unified future for our beloved islands. We also request that you relay this news to the liontaurs and centaurs, for you are able to do so more quickly than we are."
Kiwina (Steve M) 131/131 HP | Current AC:22 or 26 vs AoO | HeP: 0 | Status: awake ! Swim 60' d20+6=14 ; Monday September 11th, 2023 10:06:23 PM
(Kiwina's attempt at diplomacy is a 14, for what it's worth.)
Falco Ambersier (Ryan M) Status: None | 75/84 HP | | AC 19(24) (T15/F15) | Channel (6d6) 5/7 DC18 | d20+7=21 ; Tuesday September 12th, 2023 9:44:31 AM
Falco nods at Kiwina's words and interjects at the end.
"Sir, you helped set us on this path which has enriched our lives greatly though it is not without risk. I hope that you will see fit to support us in this endeavor as Rolth as a vital member of the team and the Taur Isles are lesser from his loss."
Elyas (Ben A.) (59/92 HP | AC: 21; Touch:15; Flat: 18; CMD:15) | status: Tuesday September 12th, 2023 11:17:57 AM
Elyas agrees with the others.
"Without Rolth I don't think we would have been able to manage the new connections between the taur races. He was always the most outspoken supporter of the unification of the islands even when it looked impossible. It will forever be his legacy to have brokered those relationships, and he should be memorialized for it
DM Mark - The Duke, et al Tuesday September 12th, 2023 10:11:47 PM
The party relates the news that Rolth has died, and ask that a memorial to him and dedicated to Tauric unity be erected on Bridge Island.
The Purple Duke is silent for a long moment. When he speaks, he does not sound like himself. He does not move as he croaks, ”Havenpuf, Jasenwell - leave us. You too.” That last part was directed at his guards. Lords Havenpuf and Jasenwell seem a bit miffed at the abrupt dismissal. The guards seem perplexed - indeed it seems odd that such a personage as the Purple Duke would be left unguarded. ”GO!” the Purple Duke barks!
Once the two lords and the four guards have left, the Purple Duke collapses in his chair, clearly distraught at the news. ”How? How could this have happened? I am sorry for this loss to the Taur Isles. Rolth was indeed a spokesperson, not just for your group but for all the Taurs as well. This is indeed a loss.
“You said another was lost - who was that?” As the party tells him it was Wil, he responds. ”Oh, well that’s too bad as well, I guess. That guy was weird. He really made a scene on Liontaur Isle I was told. But Rolth….”
After he is able to collect himself, he responds ”Yes, now a memorial. That seems like a proper response. Yes, yes. On Bridge Island you say? Well, I would rather have it here. And I suppose the Council on Taur Island would want the same. So I guess Bridge Island makes sense in a way. And yes, we must inform the others. Come with me.”
The Purple Duke almost leaps from his chair and throws open the door as he strides out. The two Lords look puzzled, but do not follow. The four guards fall in behind the Petals as they follow the Purple Duke. You cross a couple of grand rooms and a long hallway, and then past some more guards down a staircase. Those guards look ready to stop the Petals, but the Duke waives them aside.
Once you descend the stairs, you pass through a locked door to enter a large, heavily guarded room. Before you is one of the mirrors the Petals brought back. The Duke orders the guards out, and you are alone with him and the large floor mirror.
He touches the frame and the mirror changes from the Duke's reflection to two different images side by side in the large mirror. One is a centaur in a grove of trees, and another is a liontaur in a stone room with sunlight streaming in. The light from both is brighter than the torch light in this room, and it seems odd to have the room made brighter from a mirror.
As you wait for the other Taur Leaders to appear, the Duke says, ”The priestly class here on Taur Island insisted this mirror remain in Imod City. It took some careful and … not careful persuasion, but the Taur Mirror is here under my control.”
Soon, Lead Stallion Pelonius and Harken Sandifur, Chief of the Sandifur Clan each step from the mirror into the room you are in. Soon, the Petals relate what they told the Duke. Pelonius and Harken are more in control of their emotions, but still affected by Rolth’s loss.
Pelonius says, ”Domi be praised that you all survived.”
The three leaders discuss the Petals' request, but quickly agree to fund and oversee whatever monument the Petals want. Harken Sandifur adds, ”Indeed, Rolth was larger than life for my people, but I knew him well enough that he would not want an ostentatious monument. What do you have in mind? What do you think will best serve as a reminder of what all of you accomplished for Tauric unity? This may be in honor of Rolth, but I will only agree to something that clarifies he was part of a team so it must honor that team as well.” The other leaders nod in agreement.
Do you have further specifications? Other requests? Is there anything you want from these leaders, unusually assembled here in one place?
If there is nothing further, they will eventually invite the Petals to leave while the three drift into other topics.
Kiwina (Steve M) 131/131 HP | Current AC:22 or 26 vs AoO | HeP: 0 | Status: awake ! Swim 60' Tuesday September 12th, 2023 11:16:06 PM "I do not think Rolth would have wanted anything excessive. But it should be clear that all are welcome there, and it should support his quest for solidarity among the taurs." Kiwina suggests a small site with art, whether a statue or inscription in stone. Perhaps as simple as, Domi is leading us down this path of unity and a return to noble grace with another inscription to Rolth's memory. He asks if there is means of communication with Bridge Island as well, or if the Petals need to go there to make arrangements for a site.
OOC:
Loot:
I added the list of loot provided in the 9/7 DM post to the list already on the Loot Sheet. Look at line 141. There were some items from the beholder fight already on the sheet, and I have made my best guess as to what was duplicated. Some descriptions were different, and it might be easiest to delete the beholder items and go with the DM list -- except some beholder items were already claimed. I suggest folks make their claims to the gear on the Loot Sheet here.
Some memorial options:
I think Mak suggested a memorial where a bless would be cast on those who read the inscription. The cost of a use-activated or continuous spell effect item is 2000 x spell level x caster level. The craft wondrous item feat prerequisite is being a 3rd level caster. So this could add a few thousand gold.
We might be able to have a similar impact through the use of a hallow spell, which can be cast in combination with specific other spells, including bless. In this case, the bless would affect visitors to the memorial while they were at the memorial for a game-year. The hallow would have to be recast annually to maintain the secondary spell effect, but I think its own effects keep going. Cost is 1,000 gp, plus 1,000 gp per level of the spell to be included in the hallowed area; more if we pay someone else to cast the spells (Rolth followed Domi, and Falco the Warper-Sar).
Ayotnom Ogini Hugh C 92/92 | AC : 22; Touch 20; Flat 15 CMD 32(34 vs Trip, Grapple or Disarm) Wednesday September 13th, 2023 12:07:10 AM
Ayotnom says, "I agree. Rolth's memorial should be a testament to unity among our peoples."
(OOC: Selling loot by me will probably be this weekend so a few more days to claim things)
Tsak Rezar (Damien) AC22(22) (T15/F14) 113/113 HP| Falchion +4 2D4+3|Crossbow1 1D8+1 Status: Wednesday September 13th, 2023 12:53:25 AM
Tsak follows along with the party. The ideas for the memorial sound fitting and he doesn't see the need to add anything. As for help from the tauric leaders, would they know anything about the town the petals are travelling to next? What was the name of the blasted place? Tsak wracks his brains but comes up short.
Falco Ambersier (Ryan M) Status: None | 75/84 HP | | AC 19(24) (T15/F15) | Channel (6d6) 5/7 DC18 | Wednesday September 13th, 2023 12:03:26 PM
Falco waits for Mak to speak, as it was his idea, but if he does not will talk about the permeant spell on the monument to bolster those who visit. He feels it sends the correct message, either way he does respond beyond that.
"While not a Taur I am committed to the same unity and seeing the unity of thought from leaders such as yourselves is important. Simple words of unity in Rolth's name going to the people from leaders goes a long way in my estimation."
Mak(JamesM)(123/123)|AC:28/18T/--FF|CMD 34| Arrows/14+1 CLB|16/11/6/16(RS)/-|(FA,WF,WS,WT,DA,RS,MS,IG)**|1d8+15(MS)(20)x3)) Wednesday September 13th, 2023 2:46:34 PM
Mak always felt out of place in the isles as one of the noble races amid a group striving to reach that status. The reality was that Mak felt no different being a member of that class, but it did make him want to take a back seat in the politics of the region to let others, those with more invested, to engage in the actual work of diplomacy.
So, Mak was satisfied to remain in the background while those of proper lineage handled the business of the isles, such as it was.
Ayotnom Ogini Hugh C 92/92 | AC : 22; Touch 20; Flat 15 CMD 32(34 vs Trip, Grapple or Disarm) Wednesday September 13th, 2023 8:40:41 PM
Ayotnom is sad that Wil and Rolth are gone. He thought it was kismet that his coming saw the group have one of each taur but now with Rolth gone they are one race down and Wil well he wasn't dead and he may have been quirky but at least he kept things interesting.
Kiwina (Steve M) 131/131 HP | Current AC:22 or 26 vs AoO | HeP: 0 | Status: awake ! Swim 60' Wednesday September 13th, 2023 8:54:12 PM
Kiwina tells Ayotnom that there were times when the group had two minotaur, and times when it had none. "It's not the same. We've been lucky to have non-taurs who will advance taur-kind."
DM Mark - The Duke, et al Wednesday September 13th, 2023 11:57:48 PM
The Petals offer several suggestions to the three leaders of the Taur Isles for an appropriate memorial. There is some discussion and what words to add, and Falco suggests a permanent enchantment of some sort that would bless those that visit. They like Kiwina’s idea of a Hallow Spell that would bless those that visit. The Purple Duke will ensure the minotaur priests will visit the site annually to renew the spell. These three leaders listen carefully, asking a question or two here and there.
Tsak asks if the leaders know anything about a village named Willsden in the Blackbird Forest, or the nearby town of Cresthaven (info from the materials found in Nevras’ house.) Lead Stallion Pelonius says she has heard of Blackbird Forest, and she will ask the centaurs what they may know and get that information to the Petals.
The leaders eventually say that they have things to discuss beyond the memorial and let the Petals know their representatives will be in touch further. The Purple Duke will tell his guards to see to Petal's needs before he returns to Pelonius and Harken.
You are led upstairs to wait for the Duke. —------------------------------ The Purple Duke will host the Petals for dinner that night. He says that Harken would like to speak to the Petals later, which the Duke will arrange. Something about a visitor - he’s not sure.
The three leaders are working with their people to create a memorial honoring the Rolth. (Your DM will need to think about this, and I’ll share what will be done in tomorrow’s post.)
He also shares some notes that Pelonius sent through the mirrors, saying she regrets the information is limited.
The Petals may rest in luxury at Castle Violet, or may have other tasks to attend to. —------------------------------ The message from Pelonius relates the following:
Blackbird Forest sits to the South of the Culverwood, though it is not really part of that wood. It is not thought to be a sentient wood as the Culverwood is, but some consider Blackbird Forest to be haunted. There are many superstitions and rumors about Blackbird Forest, and some seem to contradict others though none are considered reliable.
Sitting between Asildur and Izen, Blackbird Forest is technically part of Asildur, though in reality it is not governed by that nation. Izen makes no claim to Blackbird Forest.
There is a coastal city named Cresthaven. No one has heard of Wilsden. —------------------------------- (Please do your best to get the treasure and wealth distributed.)
Tsak Rezar (Damien) AC22(22) (T15/F14) 113/113 HP| Falchion +4 2D4+3|Crossbow1 1D8+1 Status: Thursday September 14th, 2023 1:30:50 AM
Tsak shows his gratitude for the local knowledge about Blackbird Forest with a nod. He'd probably smile more often but gratuitously showing his fangs often has the opposite of the desired effect. Other than that he retires to wherever the petals are sent and tries to straighten himself up as best as possible before the feast with its resulting unavoidable side-dish of politics.
Falco Ambersier (Ryan M) Status: None | 75/84 HP | | AC 19(24) (T15/F15) | Channel (6d6) 5/7 DC18 | Thursday September 14th, 2023 10:00:57 AM
Falco thanks the leaders and is happy to relax and wait for the meal that evening. Thinking about food he considers the items they have collected and decided to keep the Sustaining Spoon. Since becoming a beast folk he finds he is far less fussy about his food and having a convenient source around is always handy.
Elyas (Ben A.) (59/92 HP | AC: 21; Touch:15; Flat: 18; CMD:15) | status: Thursday September 14th, 2023 2:12:08 PM
Elyas prepares for the evening and tries to look more presentable. Without Rolth the group will likely need ot field a lot more questions and political information than they used to.
Elyas pours over the note from Pelonius in the time before the meal. A haunted forest? that could be interesting. Conflicting rumors about the place make it more interesting. maybe someone is trying to keep people out and spread the idea it was haunted. maybe there is some other dark magic involved. Maybe sentient woods. Or sometimes haunted just means haunted.
DM Mark - The Duke, et al Thursday September 14th, 2023 8:00:54 PM
The dinner with the Duke is pleasant. The food is OK, leaning toward a fair amount of meat with a few vegetables here and there. It is expertly cooked, but minotaur food is something of an acquired taste.
After dinner, a guard appears. ”Um, er, excuse me sir. The, well, there are some people here. I was told there would be only one, but there are actually two. One is the liontaur you expected, and the other one is … small.”
The Duke replies, ”Well, that was much faster than I anticipated. Please send them in.”
Then he addressed the Petals. ”It seems there was some concern that since your group represent all of the taurs in a way, that a representative from the liontaurs was needed. Harkin said he was aware of a possible candidate. Evidently that candidate has a traveling companion. I’m afraid I know little more at this time, so we are all in for a bit of a surprise.”
The Duke has servants bring two more chairs, one large for a liontaur, and the other small like Falco uses.
Soon two figures are escorted in - a liontaur and what appears to be a bipedal badger.
(Please get the treasure decided upon by the weekend so my coDM can start afresh Monday.)
Elyas (Ben A.) (59/92 HP | AC: 21; Touch:15; Flat: 18; CMD:15) | status: Thursday September 14th, 2023 8:14:33 PM
Elyas moves his chair over to help make room for the new chairs
He is quick to greet the newcomer, as having a new face on the team is a very welcome change from the losses that they have spent a lot of time discussing
"Well hello there! please join us. what are your names?
He is unsure of course if the badger can talk or is possibly an animal companion, so addresses the both of them equally.
Kiwina (Steve M) 131/131 HP | Current AC:22 or 26 vs AoO | HeP: 0 | Status: awake ! Swim 60' d20+9=29 ; Thursday September 14th, 2023 8:15:41 PM
Kiwina ponders the information from the centaurs, seeing if it jogs any memories of things he's heard or read. (Know geography = 29) If not, they may have to look about at Cresthaven to find Wllsden.
He takes some time while they are at Castle Violet to see if the dryad Cassia is about. Whether he finds her or not, he is back for dinner.
Ayotnom Ogini Hugh C 92/92 | AC : 22; Touch 20; Flat 15 CMD 32(34 vs Trip, Grapple or Disarm) Thursday September 14th, 2023 8:24:03 PM
(OOC: I'm going to post the items for sale in the catacombs either Friday or Saturday at the latest; I can probably give a rough estimate then and then depending on how fast the sale goes get the official proceeds distributed so people can buy things)
Ayotnom says, "You know it is funny but it seems like everytime our group has an opening almost immediately someone comes along to fill it. When I joined I took over for another minotaur named Son Imod. Imod himself dropped me off and then spirited Son Imod away. Rolth passes and Wil goes off to do his own thing and we find ourselves with another Liontaur and an anthropomorphic badger. I'm Ayotnom Ogini by the way. Who might you be?"
Beech (JohnC) AC 20(24)/15/15,HP 82/82 Character Thursday September 14th, 2023 8:35:37 PM
A Liontaur with what looks like aged white fur and a pure mane walks in, something is extremely unsettling about his looks... He is wearing a mithril shirt and a cloak, with a clasp of what looks like a flower. He has a quiver on each side of his waist with a morningstar hanging from the saddlebags frame mounted over his lower back. It finally hits you, whats wrong that is, his leg muscles of his left hind leg, are reversed and the biceps and triceps have traded locations. Very unsettling, but it seems to bother him not at all. As he gets closer, the aged fur stays aged, but your estimate of his actual age is a whole lot less and ancient, almost just the opposite. He gives a bow, "Good evening, smells like dinner was pretty good. Glad we stuffed our faces in a few minutes between all of the moving around today. Oh, I'm Beech, Son of Aztyr. It seems Harken and she put their heads together and decided our presence was needed. As to why, I'm sure we'll be told..."
Highlight to display spoiler: { Beeches muscles move about randomly, but have no hindrance to him, it's his bloodline }
Panzer Braun (David F) AC 31 (T17, FF26) CMD 33 HP 158/158 ) Character Sheet Thursday September 14th, 2023 9:00:10 PM
from outside as the two newcomers are being introduced you hear in a whispered, but not quiet voice." See! He did it again, you can't tell me they aren't making fun of my size. That other one actually patted me ON THE HEAD! If your mother hadn't threatened to teleport me to that place again and leave me alone..." At which point the two guests are ushered in. The Liontaur speaks his piece while the Badgerkin just smiles while he waits his turn. ( Good god there are ALOT of teeth in that tiny mouth). Panzer appears to be a man shaped Honey Badger. He has fur, a tail, whiskers and the teeth of a honey badger, but his paws are much closer to hands and feet than to animal paws. His fur is fairly thick but his hide seems loose. He wears sturdy traveling clothes and over those he wearsa set of Full Plate armor that is the Matte black of Adamantine. The hilts of many knives poke from sheathes on his belt and across his back. His cloak is also held in place by a Moonflower pin. " Hi, my name is Panzer Braun. I know how to mine and engineer things, and how to eliminate a thieves guild. I am known for making bad decisions at a moments notice. The good news is I have survived all of them so far." Panzer will shake any hands that are offered and from his grip you can tell he is strong. You can also tell he doesn't flaunt his strength by trying to crush your hands and this makes you think he was mostly playing at the conversation you overheard on his way in.
Tsak Rezar (Damien) AC22(22) (T15/F14) 123/123 HP| Falchion +4 2D4+3|Crossbow1 1D8+1 Status: Thursday September 14th, 2023 11:07:05 PM
Tsak looks up from his conversation with Mak as the guard announces the arrival of two new people.
When the liontaur and badger walk in he rises and crosses the room to greet them, shaking their hands in turn.
Welcome Beech, and Panzer, my name is Tsak. Our birdman here is Falco and the one with a mouthful of lamb pie is Mak. Please join us.
Tsak sits back down and looks to the Duke who he is sure will have some speechifying to do.
Falco Ambersier (Ryan M) Status: None | 75/84 HP | | AC 19(24) (T15/F15) | Channel (6d6) 5/7 DC18 | Friday September 15th, 2023 11:09:02 AM
Falco's large avian eyes bulge as he sees Panzer and he rushes over.
"Another beastfolk, how amazing and look at the fur instead of feathers." He looks eye to eye with the badger and gives a little bow. "Falco Ambersier, cleric of the Warper-sar and climber of rigging, a pleasure to meet you both." He nodes to the liontaur as well.
Panzer Braun (David F) AC 29 (T17, FF25) CMD 33 HP 158/158 ) Character Sheet Friday September 15th, 2023 9:37:24 PM
Panzer greets all of his new companions and takes the offered chair to see why Beech's mother thought that they should become associated with this group of adventurers. So far it was pretty cool. They had a group name, they seemed to work as a team and they all seemed to get along. All decidedly good traits for an adventuring group. From what he gathered of their speech so far they represented the Taur races? He wondered what that was about but figured it would be revealed in time. Probably why they were hanging out with all these High muckety-muck Taurs with guards and mirrors and stuff. He turned his gaze to the important figure at the front of the room that had introduced them. He had so far missed the persons name and rank.
DM Mark - New Faces! Saturday September 16th, 2023 1:57:05 AM
Kiwina seeks out the dryad Cassia. He learns that while she usually inhabited the gardens, it seems she needed to leave on some task. While they know she is gone, they know not where.
Kiwina ponders what he knows of Blackbird Forest and its environs. Unfortunately, few know much about Blackbird Forest. The nearby Blackbird lake has been important from time to time, but the Forest remains a bit of a mystery. (The DM is not really prepared to try to research and summarize info about Blackbird Lake. Info is scant on the Forest.)
At dinner, the Petals are quick to welcome these guests.
Ayotnom comments on how it seems when one of the Petals leaves, there is soon a replacement. The Purple Duke replies, ”Well, my esteemed Ayotnom, heroes in the Wold gain a certain reputation. There are many that aspire to be heroes themselves, and others that already are but are seeking the right group that will allow them to make a difference in the Wold. So it should not surprise you that other may seek you out from time to time so they could add their strength to yours to accomplish noble deeds.”
Beech the liontaur and Pander the badger beastfolk introduce themselves. Beech seems a bit off, perhaps some childhood injury has altered his body. Panzer seems a bit sensitive to comments about his size, but both seem affable and at ease.
At the mention of Aztyr, the Purple Duke’s seems to recognize the name. ”Aztyr, now that is a name I’ve not heard in a while. One of the Wold’s heroes, if I recall. Indeed, if you come at her behest, that is a good sign.
“Who am I? Well, I am surprised you have not heard of me. I am the Purple Duke, leader of the noble caste here on Minotaur Isle.
“As to why you two are here? Well, perhaps you are not aware of the exploits of the Petals of the Eight Petaled Rose. They have been instrumental in saving the Taur Isles from a number of threats. But perhaps most importantly, they have served as a symbol for tunic unity.
“Each of the tunic races was created by Imod to represent certain aspects special to the minotaurs, centaurs, and liontaurs. There has always been a healthy competition among the taurs. But for some, this had devolved into an unhealthy racial bias and strife. Indeed, here on Minotaur Isle a fledgling liontaur community was established with my encouragement. A minotaur was killed, and the Petals here were able to determine that in fact it was a group of minotaurs that did the killing and tried to frame the liontaurs to stir up hatred against them.
“I am sure they can share with you their exploits and accomplishments.
“But, on the subject of tauric unity, Harken was troubled at the loss of the liontaur member of this group, and a human priest as well. I suspect he had heard of Beech through Aztyr, and thought that might a good fit. And certainly, Panzer’s presence can only benefit the group and round them out. So I suppose it is at the request of the rulers of the Tauric Isles that these to might join the Petals. As for what next, I do not know. But the Petals seem to have an idea about where they are headed. Imod has guided they thus far, and we trust still has his hand in this.
“Now, you Petals wanted a memorial to Rolth on Bridge Island, and we will see to that though it will take some time.
“Where are you off to next? I understand that you were recently in Dirt City - not a place I would recommend, so perhaps a good place to be back from then, eh?”
[i]You can wrap up anything you need to here, but we would like to move the party on towards the next module. Thanks for working to get the loot distribution addressed. We will be switching DMs Monday, and moving in the new mod.[/b]
Beech (JohnC) AC 20(24)/15/15,HP 82/82 Character Saturday September 16th, 2023 10:41:22 AM "Never had much reason to explore Black Bird Forest when I was growing up, what with the Lake and access to Liontaur Isle to explore. I was even allowed to take out the Silver Swan to motor about the lake to help with the exploring. Oh, I'll catch you all up, just a bit. I grew up in a fortress on the edge of BBL. It was dropped there from the shadowlands after the Laker's cleared it out. Mom still lives there, but spends a few days a week on Liontaur Isle as one of the tribal elders for the tribe she grew up in. She's also often called upon by the clergy to perform her role as one of the few High Priests, so even in retirement she's not very retired." Beech handles the Holy Symbol of Alemi about his neck and glances at the drop of liquid in it's center.... "Sorry, sometimes I get distracted, I can understand why both Harken and my mom wished me to be here, and since leaving a friend behind, I can also understand sending along Panzer he's a bit rough around the edges, but I like him well enough. And until we get all caught up in recent history, I know I'll be following the lead of others. Oh, one more little thing. It's a bad habit I picked up from Mom, don't ask for "Party Favors" unless you want something to go boom.
Highlight to display spoiler: { We never ended up in the Forest it was all about the Lake in BBL game}
Kiwina (Steve M) 131/131 HP | Current AC:22 or 26 vs AoO | HeP: 0 | Status: awake ! Swim 60' Saturday September 16th, 2023 12:58:27 PM "We're actually looking for a town in that area called Wilsden. Don't know who Wil is, or why he had his den there. Haven't been able to learn anything about it so far, so we'll be trying to find out more as we get closer."
Kiwina thanks the Purple Duke for his help and for dinner. To himself, he reflects that while minotaur food may be an acquired taste, it is better than waving a piece of meat at a fire and calling it cooked.
Elyas (Ben A.) (59/92 HP | AC: 21; Touch:15; Flat: 18; CMD:15) | status: Sunday September 17th, 2023 10:15:09 PM
Elyas greets both of the newcomers, but let's them tell their stories instead of trying to fit in his own information. They both sound like they have quite the story to tell and elyas us happy to have them join the group.
Ayotnom Ogini Hugh C 92/92 | AC : 22; Touch 20; Flat 15 CMD 32(34 vs Trip, Grapple or Disarm) Sunday September 17th, 2023 11:34:18 PM
Ayotnom says, "We go where the clue from Grovas led us and the Wold and Dirt City are better off for it."
Ayotnom then tells of what they did and learned within the parameters of the agreement they signed.
Tsak Rezar (Damien) AC22(22) (T15/F14) 123/123 HP| Falchion +4 2D4+3|Crossbow1 1D8+1 Status: Monday September 18th, 2023 5:48:36 AM
Tsak's ears pick up when Beech mentions 'party favors' that go boom. He files it away as a conversation to be had later, could prove interesting.
He grabs another glass of mead and moves onto a cured meats and cheese platter that has caught his eye.
It is indeed good to be done with Dirt City your Grace. But we still have loose ends to tie up as we unravel the mess that Grovas left behind. The necromancer we dealt with in Dirt City was a nasty piece of work, so we'll be exercizing caution as we continue to move forward.
Falco Ambersier (Ryan M) Status: None | 75/84 HP | | AC 19(24) (T15/F15) | Channel (6d6) 5/7 DC18 | Monday September 18th, 2023 9:40:33 AM
Falco shudders at the mention of Dirty City. [b} "That place needs a good cleaning I think, more then the Petals could handle/ Ah, well." [/b] He looks at the new commers. {b] "I guess, like a rose, when one petal falls another grows we are glad for the company. Do you know your way around boats? Ours is are primary home." [/b]
Before the team heads out again Falco will take some time to do some shopping. It is no good for an adventure to travel without some ration, a bed roll and the like. He is sure he had them at one point but they have slipped off. ____________________________ Channel: 7/7
Kiwina (Steve M) 131/131 HP | Current AC:22 or 26 vs AoO | HeP: 0 | Status: awake ! Swim 60' Monday September 18th, 2023 10:24:51 PM "I don't know how Dirt City could enforce that agreement outside of their borders," Kiwina observes. There was no Oathbound to witness the agreement, no geas placed. He still doesn't break it.
DM Dominik - A hero's work is never done Monday September 18th, 2023 10:43:18 PM
Beech relays what he knows about the area around Black Bird Forest, which unfortunately was not much, and gives some history to the group about his mother.
Kiwina questions about the location known as Wilsden. Kiwina seems pleased withe food offering even if it is an acquired taste.
Elyas listens eagerly to their new companions.
Ayotnom tells the story of their trip to Dirt City, atleast what he is allowed to say.
Tsak seems intrigued about Beech's party favors, making a mental note to ask him about that later. He backs up Ayotnom's stories, adding that the group has to be careful in their next steps.
Falco recoils at the mention of Dirty City and comments that it needs a good cleaning. He asks their new partners if they are comfortable around boats. -------------------------------------------------- The Purple Duke asks how long the Petals are planning on staying before heading out? What information is leading them to Wilsden?
The night and the meal carry on. There is plenty of opportunity for small talk and getting to know each other. Eventually the Purple Duke excuses himself and invites the others to continue on and enjoy themselves. He informs them they are welcome to stay at the Castle Violet as long as they need.
The next morning, Beech and Panzer are shown to The Rose and their new quarters. Ramsay informs Captain Kiwina that the crew are ready to leave whenever they want.
Ayotnom Ogini Hugh C 92/92 | AC : 22; Touch 20; Flat 15 CMD 32(34 vs Trip, Grapple or Disarm) Monday September 18th, 2023 10:55:46 PM
Assuming they are allowed to share Nevras's documents he shows them to the Purple Duke.
Tsak Rezar (Damien) AC22(22) (T15/F14) 123/123 HP| Falchion +4 2D4+3|Crossbow1 1D8+1 Status: Tuesday September 19th, 2023 12:37:58 AM
As things wind down so does Tsak. Before imbibing too much he takes himself off to bed to get a good sleep.
Tsak takes the opportunity of being in a town to find some digging implements, a hoe and a spade. He plans to stop at the island where Grovas' lair is and bury Esmerelda there before they head off to Wilsden.
Panzer Braun (David F) AC 29 (T17, FF25) CMD 33 HP 158/158 ) Character Sheet Tuesday September 19th, 2023 12:42:41 AM
Panzer has little knowledge of boats, other than he is a walking anchor. Probably need to see about that sometime soon. " Are you SURE you want to go near one of the Wold's awakened forests? No good can come of it, mark my words."
Elyas (Ben A.) (59/92 HP | AC: 21; Touch:15; Flat: 18; CMD:15) | status: Tuesday September 19th, 2023 8:46:42 AM "No, I'm never sure it is a good idea to stick our noses in some of the spots we've gone into before. Probably wasn't a great plan to go chasing down a rainbow dragon, or go messing with a necromancer in Dirt City, or breaking into a beholder warehouse... but we still do it because someone has to. We can't leave a powerful necromancer to consolidate power, even if it means some risk to ourselves.
Elyas smiles at Panzer "Still want to join our crew?
Falco Ambersier (Ryan M) Status: None | 75/84 HP | | AC 19(24) (T15/F15) | Channel (6d6) 5/7 DC18 | Tuesday September 19th, 2023 10:06:18 AM
Falco moves to slap Panzer on the back finding it night to be able to see someone eye to eye for a change.
"The boats not so bad, we have a crew and a lot of us have some skill. I look to keep lookout in the rigging, its relaxing. As for sticking our beaks in, its kind of comes with the territory. You look like you an handle yourself in a pinch. "
Beech (JohnC) AC 20(24)/15/15,HP 82/82 Character Tuesday September 19th, 2023 12:22:32 PM
Beech, looks to Panzer, "I know the forest maybe Awakened, but that doesn't mean it's out to kill us. At least not without the help of, did you say, a Necromancer? If that's the case, we can end up facing most anything.... Mom mentioned a Zombie Landshark in one of her stories, that was bad enough, but just as it died... for the second time, it then exploded releasing a disease. At least that's how she told it, she said she heard it at the Giggling Ghost, so you never can tell if you're getting the actual truth there..." Beech seems to be getting more comfortable, but he's watching to make sure Panzer is fitting in as well....
Panzer Braun (David F) AC 29 (T17, FF25) CMD 33 HP 158/158 ) Character Sheet Tuesday September 19th, 2023 1:48:28 PM
To Elyas, Panzer says " Sure at least you have the right attitude that someone has to do it and the mindset and ability to punch whatever it is in the face when it turns out that going looking for trouble was indeed a bad idea. Like I said, I excel at bad ideas and surviving them. That thieves guild I mentioned, Beech and his friends were having issuew with it because it was more of an assassins guild than a thieves guild. When I asked them if they had tried just killing the person threatening them they just stared at me. Turns out that lady needed a good killing to get her attention. Once you had her attention she whined like most bad guys hat realize they have just lost. When we turned her into the law after dragging her through her own guild as we destroyed it room by room she was begging for the guards to take her away from us," To Falco he says " Oh I think life on a ship will be fine. I just have to make sure I can stay afloat when it comes to being in water. My armor may have other ideas."
Mak(JamesM)(123/123)|AC:28/18T/--FF|CMD 34| Arrows/14+1 CLB|16/11/6/16(RS)/-|(FA,WF,WS,WT,DA,RS,MS,IG)**|1d8+15(MS)(20)x3)) Tuesday September 19th, 2023 2:23:02 PM
Mak had been mourning aboard the Rose for a bit and when he decided to return he was in full regalia. The average height man was slim, with black chainlink armor and a purple and yellow tabard with the Ebonblade family mark upon it. Over his shoulder was a pack he was known to carry and at his hip the black rapier his family was named for. On his face he wore a pair of purple tinted glasses that he kept adjusting with his gloved hands. No where was the bow he'd come to be known to carry, but his quiver was there and full as it hung on his back.
"I hear we are going home." Mak said to the petals. "We should watch out for plants."
DM Dominik - A hero's work is never done Tuesday September 19th, 2023 8:49:09 PM
Ayotnom attempts to show the letters that they discovered from Nevras's house.
Tsak eventually calls it a night. He makes plans to give a proper send off to Esmerelda.
Panzer cautions the group about traveling to a sentient forest. He also tells a story touting his abilities.
Elyas comments about different adventures they have been on, but many of the non-party people look at him weird as he talks.
Falco is relishing being among someone his own size and reassures Panzer that the boat is safe.
Beech is relays a story that his mom had told him, unsure how true it actually is.
Mak takes his time to mourn the loss of his companions. He decides the return to the group in full regalia. ------------------------------------------------- The Purple Duke seems confused when Ayotnom shows him the papers, "Those are blank. What is this supposed to be?" The problem is compounded when Elyas starts to talk about to their adventures in Dirt City. The Purple Duke has a perplexed look on his face, "What was that? Did you forget words for a moment?" . He turns to his attendant, "Its not just me, correct? That was garble of sounds?" to which the attendant would nod his head in agreement. Panzer and Beech would also have heard a garble of sounds after the mention of the rainbow dragon before hearing clearly, "We can't leave a powerful necromancer to consolidate power, even if it means some risk to ourselves" . {OOC: Think an adult from Charlie Brown} The rest of the party had no trouble understanding Elyas. Clearly the terms of the contract prohibit any mention of the beholder or Nevras operating in Dirt City. Mak greets the group in full regalia and tries to confirm what the parties next destination is?
Beech (JohnC) AC 20(24)/15/15,HP 82/82 Character Tuesday September 19th, 2023 10:29:29 PM
Beech, looks to the Duke, "Even with the Magic's I have running, I couldn't understand a word of anything between Rainbow Dragon and a Necromancer." He turns to Panzer, "Sort of like how I tuned out 90% of we need to respect The Culverwood that the others always seemed to spout. I was willing to ignore the Wood, if it'd ignore me, but they didn't like my solution when the Wood acted up....." Having had a long day, Beech covers his mouth as he yawns...
Ayotnom Ogini Hugh C 92/92 | AC : 22; Touch 20; Flat 15 CMD 32(34 vs Trip, Grapple or Disarm) Tuesday September 19th, 2023 10:34:57 PM
Ayotnom says, "Apparently there was some magic in that ole document we signed before we left Dirt City. I still thought we were headed to that place called Wilsden or are we visiting the rest of the Taur Isles first?"
Kiwina (Steve M) 131/131 HP | Current AC:22 or 26 vs AoO | HeP: 0 | Status: awake ! Swim 60' Tuesday September 19th, 2023 11:12:33 PM
Kiwina asks the Duke when the memorial to Rolth will be ready to be dedicated. He thinks they should return for the ceremony, but also recognizes that work on the memorial may take some time.
He is not surprised at Tsak's request to go to "their" island to bury Esmerelda. Tsak made that request while they were still in Dirt City. It was important and needn't take long.
To Mak, he says, "Wilsden is home?"
Panzer Braun (David F) AC 29 (T17, FF25) CMD 33 HP 158/158 ) Character Sheet Wednesday September 20th, 2023 8:59:11 AM
Panzer makes his way around the ship learning some of the basic tasks from the crew so that he isn't totally useless when they get underway. Beside that he tries to learn what he can about their present quest, but apparently some points of it can not be discussed.
Mak(JamesM)(123/123)|AC:28/18T/--FF|CMD 34| Arrows/14+1 CLB|16/11/6/16(RS)/-|(FA,WF,WS,WT,DA,RS,MS,IG)**|1d8+15(MS)(20)x3)) Wednesday September 20th, 2023 9:49:03 AM "Close enough. It's in Aisildur." Mak said in response to Kiwina. "As for communication, it was clearly in the contract that we be allowed to speak of these matters to the Taur Council." Mak then tried what the others had tried. Perhaps he was the only one authorized for such communication.
OOC: Mak read over and passed a skill check on that contract. We were supposed to be able to clearly communicate all that happened to the Taur Council. If they've misrepresented themselves Mak intends to tell the council that the Prince hasn't acted in good faith and shouldn't be trusted.
Falco Ambersier (Ryan M) Status: None | 75/84 HP | | AC 19(24) (T15/F15) | Channel (6d6) 5/7 DC18 | Wednesday September 20th, 2023 9:56:26 AM
Falco finds the whole communication issue unreasonably funny chuckling as he shakes his head. "Yeah, Dirt City needs a good cleaning but not by us I think.*
Back at the boat Falco takes the time to show Panzer around and interduce him the the various crew members. After a bit he excuses himself to by some minor supplies in town. (ooc: minor supplies that will show up when I finish my new character sheet, just food and what not.)
Kiwina (Steve M) 131/131 HP | Current AC:22 or 26 vs AoO | HeP: 0 | Status: awake ! Swim 60' Wednesday September 20th, 2023 9:30:54 PM
Kiwina helps Ramsey make sure everything is ready.
Ayotnom Ogini Hugh C 92/92 | AC : 22; Touch 20; Flat 15 CMD 32(34 vs Trip, Grapple or Disarm) Wednesday September 20th, 2023 11:47:46 PM
Ayotnom asks, "Wilsden is home to what?"
DM Dominik - A hero's work is never done Thursday September 21st, 2023 12:13:29 AM
Beech doesn't much concerned about the miscommunication. He starts to feel the effects of the long day.
Ayotnom chalks it up to the contract. He asks the group where their next destination is.
Kiwina asks about the memorial. He thinks the group should head to the Island to bury Esmeralda. He asks Mak about home.
Panzer takes time to familiarize himself with the various aspects of sailing, hoping to make himself useful. He questions what the next mission is but finds some of the details are not for him to know.
Mak responds to Kiwina question. He wonders about the contract they signed and its details.
{OOC: The beholder was not considered essential knowledge, in fact you were expressly told not to mention it. You are able to talk about the necromancer to the council. As for the papers, I was too hasty. The papers were not blank, just any mention of any people or of the Houses in Dirt City, excluding Nevras, was missing.}
Falco finds the humor in the situation, furthering his belief about Dirt City. He helps Panzer get acquainted with the boat and the crew before excusing himself for a supply run.
------------------------------------------------ The Purple Duke was equal parts fascinated and worried about the letters and the discovery of the activities of Nevras and Achtoom. He asks the Petals what they plan on doing with this new information. He informs Kiwina that it will take a couple weeks to get everything together, he promises not to have the memorial without them.
The crew take Captain Kiwina's orders very seriously and do their best to show Panzer the ropes. Ramsay looks for confirmation from the group what their next destination is, once everyone is abroad and ready to leave.
Tsak Rezar (Damien) AC22(22) (T15/F14) 123/123 HP| Falchion +4 2D4+3|Crossbow1 1D8+1 Status: Thursday September 21st, 2023 12:23:09 AM
Tsak explains to Ramsay the plan to travel to Wilsden via the small island where they defeated an enemy that had abducted a child. Tsak isn't too sure about this magic stuff that is somehow affecting not what people say, but what others hear. He tries to keep the description tangential but figures since Ramsay had sailed there he would be able to figure it out.
Falco Ambersier (Ryan M) Status: None | 75/84 HP | | AC 19(24) (T15/F15) | Channel (6d6) 5/7 DC18 | Thursday September 21st, 2023 10:04:10 AM
Some quick shopping nets Falco ten hard rations and a bed room which he normally keeps on the boat, only planning to bring them out if there is a need. He doesn't get too involved in where they are going next , the loss of two friends, well one friend and one associate, has him at a bit of a loss. He has an idle thought Maybe something will attack us so i know what to do with myself.
Elyas (Ben A.) (59/92 HP | AC: 21; Touch:15; Flat: 18; CMD:15) | status: Thursday September 21st, 2023 10:13:22 AM
Elyas makes his preparations to leave again, and spends the night on the Rose. He does not have much he needs to do and is ready to see where this adventure takes him next.
He agrees that Wilsden should be the next stop
Beech (JohnC) AC 20(24)/15/15,HP 82/82 Character Thursday September 21st, 2023 11:59:36 AM
Beech, finds a place to sleep on board the ship, he'd been on barges and of course the steam powered Silver Swan, but never before a wind driven ship. He already knew the big no no, but he would listen and remember, or at least try to remember all that was discussed... As he passed Panzer one of the times of many that most likely occurred, [n]"Well, our new group seems to be able to make decisions at least."[/b] He doesn't elaborate if anyone over heard the comment. He will mention in the morning, "Ok, So, you returned from Dirt City, one of mom's friends was from there I think, something that can't be verbalized or probably even written about, but also a Necromancer, whom I take it is the lead we are following to Black Bird Forrest, and a village called Wilsden? Do I have this generally correct? And the Necromancer is a target, to kill that is, not someone to be making a deal with? Oh, another thought... wait, let me change that... Another issue we can discuss, it was mentioned to me, it might be useful for a group, working together, on things such as we are planning, that we might want to be able to communicate without being over heard. I currently do not have the spell, It would require a scroll for each person who wanted to be part of and I could make it Permanent. Telepathic Bond. It's something you can think over and if as a group we decide, we can figure out how to pay for the costs.... Highlight to display spoiler: { 12,500g each person/being if smart enough linked} Beech will search for the galley, he can put his abilities to use at least....
Panzer Braun (David F) AC 29 (T17, FF25) CMD 33 HP 158/158 ) Character Sheet Thursday September 21st, 2023 6:48:16 PM
Panzer spends as much tie on the Rose as he can, getting accustomed to the ship and how it moves beneath him. He makes his gear ready for the sea as well. He waterproofs and saltproofs where he can.
Kiwina (Steve M) 131/131 HP | Current AC:22 or 26 vs AoO | HeP: 0 | Status: awake ! Swim 60' Thursday September 21st, 2023 7:52:49 PM
Kiwina makes sure the crew shows their new passengers to the quarters that Rolth and Wil are no longer using. And he asks what duties they're fit to take onboard while they're with Ramsey. Not that any of the Petals regularly crew, but all are able to pitch in at need.
He takes time himself for a quick trip into town -- including to the Catacombs if they are accessible. (And retconned not to delay things if possible.)
"To the island where we fought Grovas, Ramsey," Kiwina directs. ". . . And that is Unity Island, not Rainbow Rose Island," he tells Mak. "From there we'll sail for Cresthaven. I assume you've made sure we're as well provisioned as usual." Kiwina knew Ramsey took pride in maintaining the Rose, so had no doubt they were ready.
Ayotnom Ogini Hugh C 92/92 | AC : 22; Touch 20; Flat 15 CMD 32(34 vs Trip, Grapple or Disarm) Thursday September 21st, 2023 10:47:23 PM
Ayotnom returns to the rose and practices some fencing forms.
DM Dominik - A hero's work is never done Thursday September 21st, 2023 11:41:33 PM
Tsak informs Ramsay of the travel plans.
Falco does some quick shopping. He hopes something comes up to take his mind off the loss of his companions.
Elyas agrees the next stop should be Wilsden.
Beech recaps what he can remember from the previous night about the adventure so far. He also inquires if the party would be interested in a group permanent spell.
Panzer prepares to set sail upon the Rose.
Kiwina visits the Catacombs. Once back on the ship, orders Ramsay to set sail for Unity Island and then to Cresthaven. He asks Ramsay if the ship and crew are prepared, though he expects they are.
Ayotnom works to keep his skill sharp. -----------------------------------------
Ramsay responds to Captain Kiwina, "Aye aye, Sir. The Rose is prepped for sail as per normal protocols." He turns and begins shouting directions at various crew members. The sails billow out and the anchor drawn, The Rose sets sail. First stop is at Unity Island. As the party disembark from the ship, Ramsay asks if the crew may come as well. He says, "The crew would also like to pay respects to a fellow crew member." If granted, most of the crew join them, a few stay back for precautionary reasons. {OOC: Feel free to describe the ceremony that you preform.} The party and crew return to the ship and set sail for Cresthaven. The travel is several days. The party eventual makes there was to a small village on the outskirts of the Blackbird Forest, Cresthaven. The town is lively with fishers, farmers, and others trading in a local market. The people seem to be friendly, although some of the larger members of the party get second glances. The town has an administrative building, 2 inns, 3 taverns, several shops and an array of households.
How would you like to proceed?
Tsak Rezar (Damien) AC22(22) (T15/F14) 123/123 HP| Falchion +4 2D4+3|Crossbow1 1D8+1 Status: Friday September 22nd, 2023 5:35:12 AM
Tsak carries Esmerelda's body to a place with a nice view. He digs a hole in the ground that is deep enough to thward predators and interns her. He refills the hole and places a rock as a simple headstone. The stoic ranger doesn't have any speeches or fancy rites in his bag of tricks. He keeps it simple. Once finished he bows his head for a few moments saying goodbye to his companion and then makes his way back to the rose.
Aboard the Rose Tsak takes his turn at lookout, helps in the kitchens and drops a line in to catch fish when he's not otherwise occupied.
At the village Tsak counts the number of taverns and gives Mak a dig in the ribs. Nice place, we should mingle.
Falco Ambersier (Ryan M) Status: None | 75/84 HP | | AC 19(24) (T15/F15) | Channel (6d6) 5/7 DC18 | Friday September 22nd, 2023 9:45:43 AM
Falco clicks his beak as Beech talks about the scrolls, with no lips it has become his habit instead of grinning.
[b "Fascinatingly spell, I for one would love to do that. I assume you can turn it on or off or need to focus or some such. I would not want to accidently here Mak's dreams at night or some such." [/b]
Elyas (Ben A.) (59/92 HP | AC: 21; Touch:15; Flat: 18; CMD:15) | status: Friday September 22nd, 2023 10:13:17 AM That is an interesting spell, it could come in handy I am sure. though it is a bit costly. I am not very familiar with the spell, as Falco says would we be stuck hearing each other's thoughts at all times? that seems... uncomfortable
Elyas joins the crew to pay respects at Unity island. He stands with Tsak as the ranger makes a simple grave. he understands the desire for simple, so he just stands there and places a hand on Tsak's shoulder.
Kiwina (Steve M) 131/131 HP | Current AC:22 or 26 vs AoO | HeP: 0 | Status: awake ! Swim 60' Friday September 22nd, 2023 7:28:58 PM
To the idea of the telepathic bond, Kiwina simply says, "No". He doesn't express disapproval, but he's going to have to know his new companions better before he agrees to such a thing even temporarily.
At the funeral, Kiwina considers various things he could offer. but has no idea what would improve the ceremony for Tsak. He makes sure the crew has ale ready when the mourners return to the ship, though.
Once they are at Cresthaven, though, his attitude about ale sours. He's worried that Mak will revert to his old habits now that they're in his homeland, not the occasional overindulgence they seem to have tempered him to but the constant stupor he had when they met. "I don't think we have time for drinking. We need to work out where Wilsden is." Kiwina tries asking the harbormaster first.
DM Dominik - A hero's work is never done Saturday September 23rd, 2023 12:30:03 AM
Tsak has a simple yet touching memorial for Esmeralda. He looks around Cresthaven and is satisfied with the number of taverns.
Falco seems intrigued by the prospect of a scroll that can keep them in better communication.
Elyas is unfamiliar with the spell but thinks it could be useful, though he has concerns about hearing certain members thoughts at all times.
Kiwina is cautious about taking such a massive commitment to a new party member. He is supportive of Tsak during the ceremony and has ale ready for when they return. He worries at how excited Mak seems to be about the taverns, citing the reason they are there and goes in search of the information that they need.
Beech, Panzer, Ayotnom, and Mak solemnly observe the ceremony. --------------------------------------- The group seems reluctant on the telepathic bond at the moment, but they will re-consider it in the future.
The ceremony is simply yet touching. Tsak gives a simple speech, has a moment of silence and says his final goodbye to his companion. The Petals and the crew all give prayers and respects to the departed companion. The mood on the Rose is solemn for most of the trip.
The group arrives in Cresthaven, Ramsay goes to take care of the docking fee and re-supplies the ship may need. The docks seem to be busy with in-comings and goings. There is a decent sized market happening in the square of the town with various merchants and farmers. Your group gets some side glances and a few whispers but most people seem to be too busy to really notice or care.
Kiwina goes to meet the harbormaster and is directed to half-elven woman. She is dressed in fine captain's clothing. She is walking about the docks being followed by a man with a armful of scrolls. She stops as Kiwina approaches and hands a scroll back to the man, almost causing him to drop them all. She shakes her head before giving you her full attention. "Don't see many of your kind around here, though your reputation precedes you. What can I do for a member of the Rose?"
There is an inn and tavern near the docks, both seem to be heavily populated with sailors and dock workers. There is another inn and tavern near the center of the city, these seem to cater to travelers and adventurers. If you ask the right people, in the right way, you may be able to find the bar of the locals.
Tsak Rezar (Damien) AC22(22) (T15/F14) 123/123 HP| Falchion +4 2D4+3|Crossbow1 1D8+1 Status: Saturday September 23rd, 2023 11:13:28 PM Aye Captain Tsak says and re-directs his footsteps away from the tavern he was heading for. He gives Mak a 'later' look. He follows Kiwina to meet the harbour master but stays silent in the background, content to let Kiwina do the talking. He's a bit shocked to hear that she is aware of the 8 petalled rose. "Gosh, we're famous" he thinks to himself, immediately followed by "don't let it go to your head, lummox".
Beech (JohnC) AC 20(24)/15/15,HP 82/82 Character Sunday September 24th, 2023 3:13:10 PM
In reply about the "mind link" Beech replies, "How it was explained to me, you hear what is sent, but you only send what you want, your thoughts are still private. And, I mentioned it, because it will require some saving up for as it is not exactly the cheapest thing that can be committed to. And taking the time for all of us to get acquainted will also be needed... Mom's group adventured for years before they cast it. But they started out as novices and grew in power and skill together. Plus it will take time for Panzer and myself to merge with the group and get better known to you and for us to learn more about all of you."
Beech (JohnC) AC 20(24)/15/15,HP 82/82 Character d20+18=35 ; Sunday September 24th, 2023 3:33:36 PM
Once at Cresthaven, Beech wanders around, hoping he isn't recognized, although how many white liontaurs are there not on the Isles. Well, he'll enjoy it until someone notices him at least. He buy a few pounds of spices knowing there is already sugar and flour aboard the ship. He'll resupply the twenty pounds of rice, buy a few pounds of jerky and a hind quarter of venison which he'll stuff into the Haversack, as it'll stay fresh in the inter-dimensional space. Highlight to display spoiler: { let me know how much $ to write off for the food supplies} After getting supplies, he'll ask shopkeepers about a bar to grab a drink at, that is more for locals as he's trying to avoid drawing too much attention.
Diplomacy check, 35
Panzer Braun (David F) AC 29 (T17, FF25) CMD 33 HP 158/158 ) Character Sheet d20=12 ; Sunday September 24th, 2023 5:22:11 PM
Panzer attends the funeral for Esmerelda. He didn't know the companion but he had seen enough companion interactions in his time to know that the relationship is close and the death of one affects the other profoundly. He realized he couldn't just stand there and watch his new companion dig the grave himself, so, being a digger Panzer joined in, using his hands instead of his tools, knowing this was , for Tsak, a labor of love that needed personal attention. He scooped and pushed the soil out of the hole until Tsak seemed satisfied it was ready and then respectfully stood back. Once they arrived at the port, Panzer headed to the adventurer's bar to see what he could learn about the Blackbird forest and the town of Wilsden. Diplomacy 12
Ayotnom Ogini Hugh C 92/92 | AC : 22; Touch 20; Flat 15 CMD 32(34 vs Trip, Grapple or Disarm) Sunday September 24th, 2023 11:49:10 PM
Ayotnom asks his compatriots, "So which tavern are we headed towards? One at the docks or one in the city proper?"
Kiwina (Steve M) 131/131 HP | Current AC:22 or 26 vs AoO | HeP: 0 | Status: awake ! Swim 60' d20+6=13 ; Monday September 25th, 2023 12:07:55 AM
Kiwina's never been a diplomat, which is one of the reasons he prefers to stick to the harbors when looking for information.
He tells the harbormaster, "We're looking for a place called Wilsden and were told it might be in this area. Also, is there a fee for berthing here?"
(diplomacy = 13)
Falco Ambersier (Ryan M) Status: None | 75/84 HP | | AC 19(24) (T15/F15) | Channel (6d6) 5/7 DC18 | Monday September 25th, 2023 11:03:24 AM
Falco listens to beech and puts that in the future projects pile of thougts.
When Panzer starts digger Falco is amazed by his ability and realizes that since he was transformed he is not a real beast-folk in the same sense. He realizes it would be embarrassing to met naturally born avian beast-folk most likely.
As to the inn and tavern. [b] "While I like bearing near the Rose moving into the city seems the better fit. We don't need tourist pricing."{/b]
Elyas (Ben A.) (59/92 HP | AC: 21; Touch:15; Flat: 18; CMD:15) | status: Monday September 25th, 2023 12:21:55 PM The docks are always a better place for learning about rumors and finding information. If we just want to drink we should go further inland.
Elyas is interested in finding out more about Wilsden and thinks the group should troll the dockside taverns for some info.
Elyas is curious about the comment form the harbormaster. He wonders what kind of reputation the group has in a place that doesn't get much traffic from the Tauric races. who else would even know of the exploits of the little band of adventurers from the Taur Islands?
Ayotnom Ogini Hugh C 92/92 | AC : 22; Touch 20; Flat 15 CMD 32(34 vs Trip, Grapple or Disarm) Monday September 25th, 2023 9:16:54 PM
Ayotnom says, "Then lets head towards one of the establishments at the docks so we can get the information we need."
DM Dominik - Investigations in Cresthaven Monday September 25th, 2023 10:06:02 PM
Tsak manages to re-direct himself away from the tavern and followed Kiwina to look for info. He is surprised to hear that others have heard of them but tries not to let go to his head.
Beech agrees that the "mind link" spell is not something they need to do in the near future as compatibility and finances need to be acquired first. At Cresthaven, he ventures around town buying supplies, hoping not to be recognized.
Panzer does his best to be helpful and respectful at the memorial. At Cresthaven, he heads to the adventurer's bar thinking that is the best place to find out information on their next location.
Ayotnom asks which bar are they heading to.
Kiwina sticks to what he knows, he asks the harbormaster about Wilsden and any potential fees.
Falco makes sure to file away Beech's suggestion for a later date. Panzer's actions during the memorial has caused Falco to have a it of an existential crisis. Falco answers Ayotnom by suggesting they head into the city for better pricing.
Elyas agrees with Falco that they should head into the city for drinks. Elyas thinks the best course for finding info on Wilsden is the dock tavern. Elyas wonders what reputation the party could have. ---------------------------------------------
Kiwina, Tsak, and Elyas find the quartermaster, who takes a moment out of her busy schedule to address them. "I believe your first mate already took care the fees, right?" She snaps her fingers and the man behind her fumbles through some scrolls before handing her one. "Yes, all set. What brings you here?" The quartermaster looks puzzled at the inquiry into Wilsden, "What business would you have there? Its a small town in the middle of nowhere." She looks the 3 of you over before continuing, "I've never been there myself and not much desire to. Well, if you are certain that is where you wanna go, your going to have to find one of the local guides. I've heard the forest is next to impossible to navigate for outsiders."
Panzer enters the adventurer's bar and draws some looks, though most seem to preoccupied to really care. The bartender looks you over, "Hello stranger, do not see many of your kind around here." He pours you a drink and asks what brings you to Cresthaven. "Wilsden? Yea I've heard of it. Small town, middle of nowhere. You'll need a guide. I'm sure you can find one around here, they have a guild, wear a blackbird on a patch on their chest, can't miss it."
Beech draws many stares and a few whispers, but nobody seems brave enough to approach. The butcher seems amiable and lets you know of a tavern that is only known by the locals. He tells you to go the library. He says, "There will be an old woman knitting on a chair in the back, call her Auntie. She will ask you a question, answer 'Dryad's milk'." He gives you a wink and whispers, "Be interesting to have a celebrity show up." He wraps up your purchase and hands it to you with a smile. {OOC: I'll get back to you on the pricing}
Ayotnom and Falco head to the tavern by the docks and find the atmosphere to be very rowdy but still friendly. It seems that most of the sailors and dock crew have recently gotten off shift.
The group has headed in different directions hoping to find the right information. Some seem to have made progress, while others are still searching.
Kiwina (Steve M) 131/131 HP | Current AC:22 or 26 vs AoO | HeP: 0 | Status: awake ! Swim 60' Monday September 25th, 2023 10:20:41 PM
Kiwina thanks the harbormaster for the information, a bit surprised that the place seems well enough known here but was so unheard of elsewhere.
The next order of business would seem to be finding a guide. Or perhaps telling the remainder of the group what they've heard. The remainder of the group is no doubt in a tavern. The question is whether a guide would be found there, too.
Tsak Rezar (Damien) AC22(22) (T15/F14) 123/123 HP| Falchion +4 2D4+3|Crossbow1 1D8+1 Status: Tuesday September 26th, 2023 6:34:50 AM
"Tavern" is nearly always a good answer thinks Tsak, no matter what the question.
He's content to let Kiwina lead as he's not really sure where everyone else has headed off to. He figures the three of them should at least stay together.
Mak(JamesM)(123/123)|AC:28/18T/--FF|CMD 34| Arrows/14+1 CLB|16/11/6/16(RS)/-|(FA,WF,WS,WT,DA,RS,MS,IG)**|1d8+15(MS)(20)x3)) Tuesday September 26th, 2023 8:21:03 AM
OOC: Apologies for the missed posts. Health issues have interceded at moments when I thought I'd be able to post.
The Taverns seem to raise Mak's spirits. He'd taken the loss of Rolth hard and had admitted during the ceremony that he blamed himself for the liontaurs death. He should have gotten them out of there earlier. Still, the time that passed had eased the sharpness of the memories and the pain as he once more took up his position as the party's archer.
Panzer Braun (David F) AC 29 (T17, FF25) CMD 33 HP 158/158 ) Character Sheet Tuesday September 26th, 2023 11:13:19 AM
Panzer thanks the barkeep and asks if there are any of the Blackbirds in attendance here tonight. If there are he asks for a refill for their table and heads over to speak to them. If not then he sinks a couple of more beverages and tips the barkeep before heading back to the Rose.
Beech (JohnC) AC 20(24)/15/15,HP 82/82 Character Tuesday September 26th, 2023 11:33:18 AM
Beech thanks the butcher, winks and heads outside. He finds a corner and pulls out a piece of parchment and begins to scrawl on it. in "Tauric" Headed to library, may have found help in our current quest for info, don't come running to rescue, but hoping things go nicely, would hate for trouble. He'll find a youth, "I'll pay you 2 silver to deliver this note to "The Rose" a ship at the docks, be sure it gets to the quartermaster or the captain." is the offer. On the outside of the folded letter is a Tree, the Sun and a Flower, if anyone knows nature at all, it's obvious, Beech, Sun and Aster. After that he heads for the Library and will while making his way towards the back, looking for the old woman, see if there is anything here written about the Black Bird Lake heroes and their exploits.... After he spots the old woman, he'll examine the near by books, and as he reaches near her, he'll say, "Excuse me Auntie"
Ayotnom Ogini Hugh C 92/92 | AC : 22; Touch 20; Flat 15 CMD 32(34 vs Trip, Grapple or Disarm) d20-1=14 ; Tuesday September 26th, 2023 8:39:26 PM
Diplomacy: 14 <- gather information
Ayotnom asks around the pub if anyone knows where Wilsden is or what the town is like.
DM Dominik - Investigations in Cresthaven Tuesday September 26th, 2023 11:40:53 PM
Kiwina seems surprised that Wilsden is so known here and unheard of elsewhere. He tries to figure out where the rest of the party has gone.
Tsak thinks a tavern is the best place to head.
Mak spirits have been raised being back on the hunt and having less time to think about his pain.
Panzer asks about the Blackbirds hoping to make a contact.
Beech thanks the butcher and sends a letter to the Rose to let the party know where he is. He heads to the library and searches around until he finds an old woman knitting in a chair.
Ayotnom asks around the tavern trying to find out info.
Elyas is non-committal about where to go to next.
Falco grabs a drink at the bar while Ayotnom goes looking for information. ------------------------------------------------
Kiwina, Tsak and Elyas decide that a tavern is the best course of action to look for a guide.
Panzer is directed to a table where several people sit with black cloaks. A few moments after you arrive a servant brings a full round of ales for the table. They seem quite happy with this development and are willing to hear you out.
Beech finds a young child and offers them 2 silver to deliver a message to the Rose. He goes to the library and approaches the old woman, calling her Auntie as instructed. The woman looks up, startled at first by the creature she sees before her, timidly asks, "Would you prefer Satyr's song or Leprechaun's charms?"
Ayotnom and Falco try to make some head way at the rowdy dock bar but do not seem to be having much success.
Panzer Braun (David F) AC 29 (T17, FF25) CMD 33 HP 158/158 ) Character Sheet d20=13 ; Wednesday September 27th, 2023 12:18:58 AM
[b]"Good evening. My name is Panzer and I was recently introduced to an adventuring party known as the Eight Petaled Rose. They need to find and travel to a town called Wlsden in the Blackbird Forest. I have lived and adventured near the Culverwood and I know that with awakened forests like this a native guide is essential to find your way in such a forest. I understand that your group does such guiding. Would you be willing to come to our ship and discuss guiding us to Wilsden?" Diplomacy 13
Tsak Rezar (Damien) AC22(22) (T15/F14) 123/123 HP| Falchion +4 2D4+3|Crossbow1 1D8+1 Status: Wednesday September 27th, 2023 3:13:39 AM
Tsak looks at Kiwina Tavern at the docks or tavern in town?
He thinks he's successful in keeping any "I told you so" tone out of his voice.
Falco Ambersier (Ryan M) Status: None | 75/84 HP | | AC 19(24) (T15/F15) | Channel (6d6) 5/7 DC18 | Wednesday September 27th, 2023 7:49:04 AM
Falco has stuck with Kiwiana and follows him as they look for a guide,
Elyas (Ben A.) (59/92 HP | AC: 21; Touch:15; Flat: 18; CMD:15) | status: Wednesday September 27th, 2023 9:26:23 AM
Elyas follows the others into the tavern and strats asking around for a guide. it is hard in a loud room, but if someone is looking for work, they'll probably hear him.
Beech (JohnC) AC 20(24)/15/15,HP 82/82 Character d20+12=29 ; d20+18=24 ; Wednesday September 27th, 2023 10:26:29 AM
Hearing the question and knowing what needs to be replied...."Of the two Satyr's song or Leprechaun's charms, I've had Leprechaun's charms and they're not on on favorites list, don't think I've ever had Satyr's song before. Now my mom used to add a bit of Vanilla to the milk, she came up with what I know now is a silly name for it, but she called it Dryad's milk. Personally, I prefer a basic first meal, but I can get a bit spicy in the later meals." Beech will pull the book with the most interesting title off the shelf, as if this is just some random conversation that is being carried on....
Bluff 29, Diplomacy 24
Mak(JamesM)(123/123)|AC:28/18T/--FF|CMD 34| Arrows/14+1 CLB|16/11/6/16(RS)/-|(FA,WF,WS,WT,DA,RS,MS,IG)**|1d8+15(MS)(20)x3)) Wednesday September 27th, 2023 3:18:10 PM
OOC: I'm confused, likely a result of being out of it for a week or so. Where are we?
Mak wandered the town as he tried to familiarize himself with the area and determine if he'd been here before.
Beech (JohnC) AC 20(24)/15/15,HP 82/82 Character Wednesday September 27th, 2023 3:30:55 PM
Highlight to display spoiler: { We are in the Port Town/City of Cresthaven, over near Black Bird.}
Kiwina (Steve M) 131/131 HP | Current AC:22 or 26 vs AoO | HeP: 0 | Status: awake ! Swim 60' Wednesday September 27th, 2023 7:33:02 PM
Kiwina heads for the tavern nearest the Rose, thinking at least some of the party would not have gotten further. By way of apology, he orders drinks for Tsak and Elyas, and one for himself before asking where one would find a guide to the forest around here.
DM Dominik - Investigations in Cresthaven Wednesday September 27th, 2023 11:00:02 PM
Panzer introduces himself to the table of Blackbirds, says he is seeking a guide.
Tsak asks where they plan on going?
Falco stays with his group and joins them looking for a guide.
Elyas starts asking around the bar for a guide.
Beech answer's the old lady without being obvious.
Mak wonders about the town, checking on the market and the social scene.
Kiwina leads his small party to the dockside tavern. He orders drinks for all of them and asks around about getting a guide. ----------------------------------------- Panzer is met with some strange looks, unsure if its about his appearance or his request. A moment of silence is broken by the outburst of laughter. A dwarven male turns to Panzer, "And what business would a person like you have going into the forest?" Half of the party seems keen on listening and the other half has already turned their attention elsewhere.
Kiwina, Falco, and Elyas enter the dockside tavern and find it very rowdy. After ordering drinks, they start asking around about a guide and eventually come across Ayotnom and Falco. Nobody really seems to be willing to help, however eventually a barmaid tells them that the adventurers tavern is the better location for getting a guide into the forest. As the group exits the tavern, a member of the crew come running up to Kiwina and hands him a note. As you unravel it, you find it written in "Tauric". "Headed to library, may have found help in our current quest for info, don't come running to rescue, but hoping things go nicely, would hate for trouble."
Beech pretends to peruse a book to make the conversation seem more innocuous. The old lady, seemingly content with the answer given, reaches behind a shelf and Beech can hear an audible click. The bookshelf noticeable sways back. She nods her head as if to indicate that Beech should head through. "Mind your P's and Q's" she says to Beech as he enters. Behind the secret door is a long hallway light by torches every 15 feet or so. As Beech heads down the hallway, he eventually starts hearing the sound of music and merriment echoing through the chamber. Eventually the hallway gives to a huge room. The room is busy with patrons and band play upbeat music that gives a lively environment. The rooms itself is well furnished with assortment of ales and spirits behind the bar.
Ayotnom Ogini Hugh C 92/92 | AC : 22; Touch 20; Flat 15 CMD 32(34 vs Trip, Grapple or Disarm) Wednesday September 27th, 2023 11:38:06 PM
Ayotnom hurries to keep up with Falco as they rejoin the group.
Falco Ambersier (Ryan M) Status: None | 75/84 HP | | AC 19(24) (T15/F15) | Channel (6d6) 5/7 DC18 | Thursday September 28th, 2023 8:14:14 AM
Falco just gets comfortable in the fits place and they exit to head to a different tavern. As they walk he inquires about the note but is happy to go with the flow. He look around at the people of the town inserted in how they live and what they do.
Beech (JohnC) AC 20(24)/15/15,HP 82/82 Character d20+18=20 ; Thursday September 28th, 2023 3:11:24 PM
Hearing the music ahead, Beech, casts Prestidigitation and cleans up, and adds a faint fresh cut wood scent about himself. He settles his gear, making sure his sickle and morningstar are tied and peacebound to his belt. He then will make his way into the large room, wondering just what it is he's gotten into.. He's not sure just who or what to look for, but he will help himself to a drink, low content alcohol if possible. He keeps watch for someone to contact him....
Diplomacy check to not screw up..... 20
Panzer Braun (David F) AC 29 (T17, FF25) CMD 33 HP 158/158 ) Character Sheet d20+3=14 ; d20=13 ; Thursday September 28th, 2023 4:07:23 PM "Me? I have no business going in there. I used to live near the Culverwood and as far as I am concerned, all of the awakened woods in the Wold have murderous intent to the rest of us and going near one without someone that knows what they are doing is a good way to get dead. That's why I would like a guide to take the group I am in into the Blackbird Forest. They have some business in the town of Wilsden in there. I know no more or less than that. I'm new and I don't listen that well. Things generally need to be explained with small words and diagrams for me to understand them." "So, would this be an endeavor that your guild would sanction? Would a representative come by our ship and talk to the captain, who knows more than me about why they want to go into the woods?"
Sense Motive 14 to see if they are taking Panzer seriously or just having fun with him. Diplomacy 13
Mak(JamesM)(123/123)|AC:28/18T/--FF|CMD 34| Arrows/14+1 CLB|16/11/6/16(RS)/-|(FA,WF,WS,WT,DA,RS,MS,IG)**|1d8+15(MS)(20)x3)) Thursday September 28th, 2023 4:54:40 PM
OOC: Where are we? Continent, town, where on the map?
Mak stopped in at the docks to try to find a map.
Kiwina (Steve M) 131/131 HP | Current AC:22 or 26 vs AoO | HeP: 0 | Status: awake ! Swim 60' Thursday September 28th, 2023 7:44:11 PM
Kiwina also asks the barmaid if there is a library in town, but still figures the others are more likely to be in a different tavern. After getting his answer, he goes looking for the group.
Ayotnom Ogini Hugh C 92/92 | AC : 22; Touch 20; Flat 15 CMD 32(34 vs Trip, Grapple or Disarm) Thursday September 28th, 2023 9:05:06 PM
(OOC: checking in)
Ayotnom tries to get caught up with what is going on.
Tsak Rezar (Damien) AC22(22) (T15/F14) 123/123 HP| Falchion +4 2D4+3|Crossbow1 1D8+1 Status: Thursday September 28th, 2023 9:30:07 PM
Tsak sticks with Kiwina, Falco, Elyas and Ayotnom. As he walks along from tavern to tavern he keeps an eye out for trouble and the rest of the petals, which is sometimes the same thing.
DM Dominik - Investigations in Cresthaven Thursday September 28th, 2023 11:37:23 PM
Ayotnom hurries up to join up with the group.
Falco joins the group the group to the new tavern. He also asks about the letter Kiwina received.
Kiwina inquires about a library in town. Then heads to the adventurers bar hoping to find the rest of the party.
Mak asks around the docks about the town.
Panzer explains the situation, or at least as much as he knows, to the Blackbirds.
Beech cleans himself up and enters the tavern, keeping with his low-key approach.
Tsak sticks with his group as they search for their remaining party members. ------------------------------------------- Kiwina, Falco, Tsak, Ayotnom, and Elyas all venture to the Adventurers Bar in the city. The bar is lively, though not as rowdy as the dock bar. You head inside and seem to draw quite a bit of attention. As you settle down into a spot, a barmaid comes over to get your order. {Perception checks from the 5 of you}
Panzer gets the feeling that this group isn't really taking him serious. Even the dwarf that had asked the question, seem less interested once he heard you were part of a bigger group. The dwarf says, "This is a matter to take up with the guild. You best do it in the morning. Now leave us to our drinks." He scoffs and turns a shoulder.
Beech sits at the bar and asks for something to drink. The bartender gives the white liontaur a look over before grabbing something behind the bar. As he hands you the drink, "Welcome stranger, you seem familiar but I can't put my finger on it. What brings you to Cresthaven?" The drink he gives you taste delicious, better then most liquor you have had, at least in a tavern. The rest of the patrons seem to be enjoying the casual atmosphere and the melodic music.
Mak wonders about the docks but they seem pretty barren at the moment. He does come across a group of kids playing a game. The take a curious interest in this man wondering about. They come and circle you, they start chanting and rotating around you. The chant seems to be some sort of nursery rhyme. (Knowledge:Local check}
Tsak orders a pale ale and finds a corner to slouch into. The petals are back to eight, and Mak is out there somewhere by himself (probably lost). The ranger waits patiently for whatever will come next.
Mak(JamesM)(123/123)|AC:28/18T/--FF|CMD 34| Arrows/14+1 CLB|16/11/6/16(RS)/-|(FA,WF,WS,WT,DA,RS,MS,IG)**|1d8+15(MS)(20)x3)) d20+3=11 ; Friday September 29th, 2023 8:35:19 AM
Mak has no idea what the nursey rhyme means, so he just walks back to the Rose. Maybe Ramsey has some answers.
OOC: Where are we? Where is Cresthaven? KS: Local +3, Roll 11.
Elyas (Ben A.) (59/92 HP | AC: 21; Touch:15; Flat: 18; CMD:15) | status: d20+15=24 ; Friday September 29th, 2023 8:46:42 AM
Perception = 24
Elyas sits down with the others and orders an ale.
Well, this is certainly a quieter place ot get a drink! maybe we'll have better luck here.
He asks the barmaid if there are any patrons here who offer guiding services
Falco Ambersier (Ryan M) Status: None | 75/84 HP | | AC 19(24) (T15/F15) | Channel (6d6) 5/7 DC18 | d8=3 ; d20+18=19 ; Friday September 29th, 2023 11:42:13 AM
{Perception 19 - that's a nat 1.}
Falco settles in at that the new place ordering a nice bitter beer and watches the goings on.
Mak(JamesM)(123/123)|AC:28/18T/--FF|CMD 34| Arrows/14+1 CLB|16/11/6/16(RS)/-|(FA,WF,WS,WT,DA,RS,MS,IG)**|1d8+15(MS)(20)x3)) d20+12=18 ; Friday September 29th, 2023 11:46:56 AM
Mak returned from the Rose and went looking for the others knowing exactly where he was. Aside from the finer details he felt he could get them to the village they were looking for.
OOC: KS: Geography +10+2(Crcumstance Bonus) = 18.
Panzer Braun (David F) AC 29 (T17, FF25) CMD 33 HP 158/158 ) Character Sheet d20+25=27 ; Friday September 29th, 2023 12:25:33 PM
Panzer thanks the Blackbirds for hearing him out and asks the whereabouts of their chapterhouse for the morning. He also calls the barmaid over and refreshes their drinks before heading for the door and the Rose to report on what he has found. Perception ( you know, in case ) 27
Beech (JohnC) AC 20(24)/15/15,HP 82/82 Character Friday September 29th, 2023 12:28:35 PM
Well, he is a bar tender.... Well.... a friend and I headed out from a new town up on the edge of The Culverwood. We had a disagreement over the way to solve it, so rather than push the issue any further, we headed to my home just outside Acid City. When we arrived there, we were told we were needed out on the 'Taur Isles. Mom opened a portal to the Isles. We were escorted around to various locations, met a whole mess of people, I'm sure we will be expected to remember. a Dinner were we arrived just in time to join the after dinner conversation and eventually after an extremely long day, we ended up on The Rose, a ship which is currently docked at the port. And it set sail for here like the next day. They should have saved us all some trouble, and the two of us, should have just traveled to here, and met them here, but... The group we are with is trying to hunt up a Guide, to escort us to some small village or hamlet I've never heard of before. Maybe you can point out someone who knows where Wilsden is and is willing to play guide to get us there." Beech didn't throw back drinks, but did go a bit easy with the consumption, one of his "uncles" was never without a flask full of something that reeked of alcohol. Beech always assumed it was from some of the things he'd seen as he adventured with the Black Bird Lakers....
Kiwina (Steve M) 131/131 HP | Current AC:22 or 26 vs AoO | HeP: 0 | Status: awake ! Swim 60' d20+20=24 ; Friday September 29th, 2023 6:13:08 PM
(Perception = 24; 28 if taurs are involved)
The majority of the group is in the bar, but Kiwina is a bit surprised not to see Mak. He orders a drink and waits to see if Elyas's question is answered.
DM Dominik - Investigations in Cresthaven Friday September 29th, 2023 9:54:34 PM
Tsak orders an ale and finds a seat to view the ongoings at the bar. He wonders where Mak is.
Mak is confused by the games and chanting of the kids and decides to head back to the Rose, hoping Ramsay has some information. He was informed they were heading to the adventurers bar in town.
Elyas grabs an ale and asks the barmaid if there are any people available to be hired as guides.
Falco orders a bitter beer and takes in the scene.
Kiwina leads the group into the bar, surprised to not see Mak.
Ayotnom
Panzer thanks that Blackbirds for the info and orders them another round.
Beech goes into the details of his last couple days, while enjoying his drink. He tells the bartender they are looking for a guide to get them to a small town called Wilsden. ------------------------------------------------ Panzer turns to leave only to discover the rest of the group has entered the tavern.
The barmaid responds to Elyas, "The Blackbirds are who you would be looking for. There are some here, but you would be best waiting and going to the guildhall in the morning. They get annoyed and bad things tend to happen to those that bother them." As she leaves Panzer wonders over to the table.
Mak makes his way to the Adventurer's bar to find the rest of his party. He arrives to find almost everyone there, enjoying drinks.
Beech watches the bartender top off his drink, "That's quite the story." The bartender closes the bottle and places it down, "Wilsden is an odd place to be seeking, not exactly a tourist or adventurers normal destination. A little town in the middle of nowhere with no real interest to outsiders." He begins to clean off a glass with the rag that was sitting on his shoulder. He gives you a curious look, you get the feeling his is trying to get a gauge of you and your intentions.
Panzer Braun (David F) AC 29 (T17, FF25) CMD 33 HP 158/158 ) Character Sheet Friday September 29th, 2023 11:18:05 PM " Hi guys.Mind If I join you? I think I wore out what little welcome my coin could buy me over there." Panzer nods with his chin at the table of Blackbirds. " They are the ones that know the forest and guide folks through it. Called Blackbirds. I invited them to come by and speak to you all since you know what's going on and stuff, but they seem really into their ale and don't like talking to outsiders. Kinda odd if you make a living as a guide I guess but whatever. It's their way." "What'cha been up to? Where's Beech?"
Beech (JohnC) AC 20(24)/15/15,HP 82/82 Character Saturday September 30th, 2023 5:59:56 PM
Beech almost laughs but manages to keep it to a slight smirk. "I'm not sure how much you know about magic. Now, remember that I just joined this group of adventurers, Apparently, whatever grand adventure my friend and I joined them for involves locating and traveling there. Unfortunately, all they can mention is the name as some sort of Geas or something similar was placed on them because when they say more than the town's name, all we can hear is gobbledygook, even writing is just gibberish. All I'm after is trying to locate a guide as we need to travel there for some reason. And even having been a part of the group for only a few weeks, I trust them to have made the choices made before my arrival, but now I get to be part of the decision making as well. So, did that clear anything up for you?" He takes another sip, and looks around, wondering if he's ever met anyone here....
Ayotnom Ogini Hugh C 92/92 | AC : 22; Touch 20; Flat 15 CMD 32(34 vs Trip, Grapple or Disarm) Monday October 2nd, 2023 1:02:55 AM
(OOC: my apologies, it has been a long day full of yardwork and I fell asleep before I could post)
Ayotnom gets his own ale and joins his fellows
Tsak Rezar (Damien) AC22(22) (T15/F14) 123/123 HP| Falchion +4 2D4+3|Crossbow1 1D8+1 Status: Monday October 2nd, 2023 2:29:58 AM
Tsak silently raises his glass to Mak as the soldier enters the bar, beckoning him to join them. Most of the party is here now.
In response to Panzer's info on the Blackbirds Interesting, a lot of people have heard of Wilsden, but everyone seems surprised we'd want to go there. I guess we'll have to see what tomorrow brings. Not sure where Beech got to. I guess that telepathic link thing would be useful about now.
Falco Ambersier (Ryan M) Status: None | 75/84 HP | | AC 19(24) (T15/F15) | Channel (6d6) 5/7 DC18 | Monday October 2nd, 2023 8:16:08 AM
Falco pulls a chair out for Panzer. "Maybe they don't like talking work during their down time. Some people are odd like that. We can find them tomorrow and figure out what the big deal is." He pushes over a basket of rolls. "Best to eat up now if were on the move tomorrow. Honestly, depending on the trip, I may need more supplies. I hate it when i can't travel light."
Mak(JamesM)(123/123)|AC:28/18T/--FF|CMD 34| Arrows/14+1 CLB|16/11/6/16(RS)/-|(FA,WF,WS,WT,DA,RS,MS,IG)**|1d8+15(MS)(20)x3)) Monday October 2nd, 2023 8:19:26 AM
Mak greeted Tsak with a warriors clasp and mentioned the children's song and behavior. "Cresthaven is new to me, though I have heard of it." Mak admitted. "I also think I could get us to Wilsden, but I'd need to talk to Kiwina a bit about it so we are on the best road."
OOC: Mak's KS: Geography was 18, an aid another check would bring that to 20.
[b'"It's been a long time since I've been in Aisildur and the nobility might have changed enough that House Ebonblade isn't in good standing. I don't think I should wear my uniform though, this tabard and my ring announcing to the world I'm a noble here is probably too much, especially if the heartseeded have any influence in the area."[/b] .
Elyas (Ben A.) (59/92 HP | AC: 21; Touch:15; Flat: 18; CMD:15) | status: Monday October 2nd, 2023 8:55:34 AM
Elyas goes back to his drink, and ends up getting another.
No point in bothering these blackbird folks if they don't want to be talked to outside business hours. wouldn't want to make them annoyed at us when we need their help. Might as well enjoy this very nice tavern and try again in the morning.
Panzer Braun (David F) AC 29 (T17, FF25) CMD 33 HP 158/158 ) Character Sheet Monday October 2nd, 2023 7:35:29 PM
Panzer smiles warmly at Mak's confidence, but finds he must tell the Human the truth. " I have traveled in awakened woods before. You might be the most proficient tracker and survivalist in the Wold, but the wood will try to kill you just the same. You want a native of the area, one that has lived in and near the wood for a guide. They know what to expect and how to navigate the wood. We will want a Blackbird."
Ayotnom Ogini Hugh C 92/92 | AC : 22; Touch 20; Flat 15 CMD 32(34 vs Trip, Grapple or Disarm) Monday October 2nd, 2023 8:25:33 PM
Ayotnom says, "I agree. Let's wait for their normal business hours."
Kiwina (Steve M) 131/131 HP | Current AC:22 or 26 vs AoO | HeP: 0 | Status: awake ! Swim 60' Monday October 2nd, 2023 9:04:08 PM "You work when work's available, unless you're wealthy. But waiting for morning isn't going to hurt us." Kiwina finishes a drink or two and heads back to the ship for the night.
DM Dominik - Investigations in Cresthaven Monday October 2nd, 2023 11:30:38 PM
Panzer walks up to the party and informs of his unsuccessful attempt to recruit them. Panzer appreciates Mak's confidence but thinks it best to hire a local.
Ayotnom grabs a drink and joins the party. He agrees with the party, waiting until morning is best.
Tsak greets Mak as he enters. He comments on Panzer's findings.
Falco suggests that the Blackbirds may just not want to discuss work during downtime.
Mak enters the tavern and greets Tsak and the rest of the party. He thinks he can guide them to the town, possibly.
Elyas figures that its best to enjoy the night and talk business in the morning.
Kiwina believes morning is the best call.
Beech does his best to explain the situation to the inquiring bartender. --------------------------------------------------- The group spends the night enjoying themselves. There are plenty of adventures that share their tales and listen to the Petals stories. A few of them have heard about Grovas, other still about the situation in Dirt City (though details are wildly inaccurate), and some have never heard of the group. Your stories draw great interest and a few rounds of refreshments. As you ask around, none of them have been to Wilsden or know much about it. Despite the unsuccessful recruiting, the night could be deemed a positive one. Beech is not there in the morning.
The bartender listens to Beech's story. "I guess you will be looking to hire a guide?" He pauses for a moment. "If you go talk to the gnome over there. He might be able to help you." You look over and see an older gnome sitting at a table. "Here, an ice breaker," he slides you 2 new drinks, "Oh, and be sure to mention Acid City." He gives you a wink. As you approach, you notice the gnome has a very worn black cloak, twigs and leaves of various varieties in his hair, and is quite drunk. He looks at you suspiciously, until his eyes light up when he spots the drinks in your hands.
Tsak Rezar (Damien) AC22(22) (T15/F14) 123/123 HP| Falchion +4 2D4+3|Crossbow1 1D8+1 Status: Tuesday October 3rd, 2023 12:38:16 AM
Tsak returns Maks handshake and the two sit down for a chat. Mak's encounter with the young-uns is interesting. In terms of getting to their destination Tsak is circumspect Let's get a local lad or lass to show us around. Not that I'm doubting your ability, but as we've learned from previous exploits having the locals on-side is always a good idea. And an extra hand in a fight doesn't hurt either.
He has a quick chat with Panzer This mate of yours, Beech, should we worry about him? Send out a search party?
The ranger leaves with Kiwina to return to the ship for the night.
Falco Ambersier (Ryan M) Status: None | 75/84 HP | | AC 19(24) (T15/F15) | Channel (6d6) 5/7 DC18 | Tuesday October 3rd, 2023 8:24:35 AM
Waking Falco goes though his morning routine, he is relieved to not ask for spells to raise the dead again and focus on other things. He finds some breakfast and follows the others in the search for a guide not feeling the need to take an active roll in this endeavor.
Mak(JamesM)(123/123)|AC:28/18T/--FF|CMD 34| Arrows/14+1 CLB|16/11/6/16(RS)/-|(FA,WF,WS,WT,DA,RS,MS,IG)**|1d8+15(MS)(20)x3)) Tuesday October 3rd, 2023 8:47:55 AM "Blackbird? Sounds like another name for heartseeded." Mak groused. "I'll not trust any local here unless I've proof he isn't working for that evil plant." Mak said with finality. "This awakened wood you are so keen to warn us about, could it be yet another attempt to be ambushed by the servants of Ga'al?"
Beech (JohnC) AC 20(24)/15/15,HP 82/82 Character Tuesday October 3rd, 2023 10:16:48 AM
Beech says "Thanks, I will." to the bartender and heads over towards the gnome... As he sets the drinks down on the table, he then adds, "The only Gnome I remember from Acid City was that old Wizard Mechanic that keeps the "Swan" running, you related? But then home was a most of a mile from his shop and on the other side of the town, although it has grown. Mom never did tell me why a Stable, a Bar, a General Store and a dozen homes was called Acid City, but with it now up to a few more homes and an Apothecary I guess it's getting there." Beech stays silent for a few before adding, "The group I'm with, and no they aren't here, is looking for someone to to guide us to Wilsden, it's fairly important..."
Diplomacy (taking 10) = 28
Elyas (Ben A.) (59/92 HP | AC: 21; Touch:15; Flat: 18; CMD:15) | status: Tuesday October 3rd, 2023 10:24:33 AM
Elyas goes through his morning rituals at a relaxed pace and rejoins the party when they are ready to back into town to take another attempt at finding a guide.
Once back on shore he asks around to get directions to the Blackbirds' guild hall
Panzer Braun (David F) AC 29 (T17, FF25) CMD 33 HP 158/158 ) Character Sheet Tuesday October 3rd, 2023 2:28:54 PM " Worry about Beech? Nah. If he gets in trouble and is within a mile of here, trust me we will know. Speaking of which, do you all have a way to put out fires onboard the Rose?"
Kiwina (Steve M) 131/131 HP | Current AC:22 or 26 vs AoO | HeP: 0 | Status: awake ! Swim 60' Tuesday October 3rd, 2023 5:45:22 PM
Kiwina isn't too happy with Panzer talking about fires onboard ship, even if the answer to his question is ropes and buckets. It's time to make sure their new acquaintances (and perhaps DMs) realize just how special the Rose is.
"We won the Rose, and Ramsey's freedom, back when the bloodgrass from the Sargrass Plains got spread over the Wold. During the crisis, we sailed her on the grass, and we were fortunate enough that she came with us when we were transported back."
"So no fires. Unless we're becalmed. And then only in the engine room."
DM Dominik - Investigations in Cresthaven Tuesday October 3rd, 2023 9:42:07 PM
Tsak agrees with Panzer, that having a local is probably going to be helpful. He asks Panzer about his friend.
Falco finds relief in not having to raise anymore companions. He tags along with the group but stays in the back.
Mak is cautious about trusting anyone or anything, who knows where the servants of Ga'al are?
Elyas goes through his morning routine and then joins the group on their way to the guildhall.
Panzer isn't worried about his friend. He asks about the fire safety aboard the ship.
Kiwina is annoyed with Panzer's question and takes it upon himself to educate him on how special The Rose is.
Beech sets the drinks on the table and mentions a gnome he remembers from Acid City. He says that the group is looking for a guide. ------------------------------------------------- The gnome grabs the drink offered and begins to down it. He stops at the mention of the gnome from Acid City, "You know that gearhead? I can't believe he is still messing with the old bird. Humph, I guess you could say that." He continues drinking and just kinda stares at Beech. When Beech mentions about needing a guide, the old gnome gives a suspicious look. "I am retired." He crosses his arms "How important....nope...nope....retired." He huffs, "You know those woods are quite dangerous, I was the senior scout of the Blackbirds, well until they came under new leadership." He will spit on the ground. "Whats this mission you are on? I might be willing to help, but it best be worth it."
The rest of the party wakes the next morning, some worse for wear then others. After their morning routines, they head into town in search of the Blackbirds guildhall. They are directed to it pretty easily. The 2 story building was a giant blackbird on its double doors. The guildhall appears busy with several individuals coming and going, most with black capes and a few others with just black hoods. You see a group being lead by a black cloak leading them out towards the forest.
Beech (JohnC) AC 20(24)/15/15,HP 82/82 Character Tuesday October 3rd, 2023 10:08:12 PM
Beech, slides the second drink over when he finishes the first. "I unfortunately know about the Awakened Woods of the Wold, spent a few years at the edge of the Culverwood. I had a workable cure, but most of the group I was with, kept vetoing it. But anyways, The group I'm with now is hunting someone who is opposed to letting those who have earned the final rest, remaining at rest. We don't want to scare the populace, obviously, but having dealt with the Culverwood, there's two of us who know better than to venture in the woods without help to get there. As to compensation, I'm sure we can come to an arrangement. And there's also the possibility of sticking it to your former employer by rubbing their noses in how pointless they are, it is only fair wouldn't it?"
Ayotnom Ogini Hugh C 92/92 | AC : 22; Touch 20; Flat 15 CMD 32(34 vs Trip, Grapple or Disarm) Tuesday October 3rd, 2023 10:29:54 PM
Ayotnom asks the gnome, "Could you tell us more about the change in leadership and why you do not like it?"
Tsak Rezar (Damien) AC22(22) (T15/F14) 123/123 HP| Falchion +4 2D4+3|Crossbow1 1D8+1 Status: Wednesday October 4th, 2023 6:23:07 AM
Panzer's reply doesn't really ease Tsak's mind, but no sense worrying about something you can't control.
On approaching the Blackbirds guildhall Tsak is intrigued. Seems there's quite a business 'leading' people into this magic forest. Might explain why they were so diffident last night. Or maybe they're full of it! Probably only one way to find out. We need to find Beech, can't just leave him behind. Did anyone see him come back to the Rose last night?
Kiwina (Steve M) 131/131 HP | Current AC:22 or 26 vs AoO | HeP: 0 | Status: awake ! Swim 60' Wednesday October 4th, 2023 6:58:05 AM
Kiwina says they should probably look for Beech as well as a guide, unaware Tsak said the same moments before. Must be almost awake.
Falco Ambersier (Ryan M) Status: None | 75/84 HP | | AC 19(24) (T15/F15) | Channel (6d6) 5/7 DC18 | Wednesday October 4th, 2023 9:38:56 AM "All this for some guides, seems a bit much. I am sure if there is a problem we will still have to solve it regardless of the guide. "Rght this way, oh now an owlbear, have fun.'"
Falco looks around as the group walks wondering if he should by a jar of honey before they go anyplace. Honey sounds great.
Elyas (Ben A.) (59/92 HP | AC: 21; Touch:15; Flat: 18; CMD:15) | status: Wednesday October 4th, 2023 3:15:59 PM Well I suppose we should probably find Beech before we go too far here. He may have already found a guide! or he might be passed out drunk on the side of the road somewhere...
Elyas isn't sure how best to go about finding their new companion, but thinks it would be awkward to hire two different guides at the same time for the same job...
Panzer Braun (David F) AC 29 (T17, FF25) CMD 33 HP 158/158 ) Character Sheet Wednesday October 4th, 2023 7:19:50 PM " Hmm, he's pretty responsible usually. He didn't send any word back to the ship about where he was going?" Hearing that Beech didn't come back last night and apparently didn't send word makes Panzer a little nervous.
Kiwina (Steve M) 131/131 HP | Current AC:22 or 26 vs AoO | HeP: 0 | Status: awake ! Swim 60' Wednesday October 4th, 2023 7:37:57 PM
At the mention of a note, Kiwina asks, "Is this his hand-writing? It isn't signed."
"Headed to library, may have found help in our current quest for info, don't come running to rescue, but hoping things go nicely, would hate for trouble."
Ayotnom Ogini Hugh C 92/92 | AC : 22; Touch 20; Flat 15 CMD 32(34 vs Trip, Grapple or Disarm) Wednesday October 4th, 2023 8:50:16 PM
Ayotnom listens for an answer to his question (OOC: checking in)
DM Dominik - Investigations in Cresthaven Wednesday October 4th, 2023 10:08:34 PM
Beech does his best to convince the drunk gnome to help him and his party.
Tsak still worries for Beech, and begins to question if anyone saw him come back to the ship.
Kiwina repeats Tsak's assertion that finding Beech should be the top priority. He shows Panzer the note they received.
Falco begins to wonder the legitimacy of this guild and how good honey would be.
Elyas agrees with Tsak and Kiwina that find Beech should be first on the agenda.
Panzer begins to worry about his friend, asking if he sent any correspondence about his whereabouts.
Ayotnom walks with the party. {OOC: You are not there for the conversation with the gnome.} ------------------------------------------------ The gnome looks at the liontaur in front of him, chugs a good part of the beer and slams him down. "I like the cut of your gib. You know what, I'm in." He extends his hand for a handshake. "So now, first part of the deal." He lets out a burp, You carry me home." He kinda closes one eye and sways a bit. "You are a young, strong lad and these legs ain't what they used to be," [/b] He leans towards you like he is about to whisper something, "Not that I can feel them much." He finishes the beer. He yells over to the bar, [b] "Put it on my tab, I'm good for it." The bartender just waves without breaking from his current activity. As you carry the gnome, he sings, poorly, a jaunty tune. He directs you to his humble abode, with only a few wrong turns. After you get him home and all set, he looks at you, "The second part, stay for the night." He points to some blankets and cushions for you to sleep on the ground. "It be nice not to wake up to an empty house." Before you finish your response, you can already here him snoring.
The group heads to the library as its their own clue to Beech's whereabouts.
Beech (JohnC) AC 20(24)/15/15,HP 82/82 Character Wednesday October 4th, 2023 10:31:33 PM
Beech, pulls over the blankets, arranges them a bit, then pulls off the gnomes boots... "phew", tucks him in. He pulls out his kettle and starts a small fire in the fireplace and mixes up some food for breakfast that can simmer the rest of the night. He also destinkafies the boots and adds a lavender scent to his make shift bed for the night. (prestidigitation) In the morning, he slices off a couple portions of steak from the quarter of meat in the haversack. and starts them cooking. He then looks outside, and hangs his cloak on a hook outside, Panzer should recognize it at least. Then up in the air, 350 feet or so, he casts Silent Image. In Tauric, is written in 20' foot tall letters. This Way, Panzer will Recognize the sign. Beech will maintain the image for 3 or 4 minutes while he tends Breakfast. Hopefully the smells will wake the Gnome, "I sent my friends a message, they should find us, eventually at least." He says with a crooked smile and serves seasoned rice and a steak for breakfast.
Elyas (Ben A.) (59/92 HP | AC: 21; Touch:15; Flat: 18; CMD:15) | status: d20+15=33 ; Thursday October 5th, 2023 8:54:11 AM
Elyas walks with the group to the Library. He asks Panzer "Is he always this cryptic? seems like if you're going to send a note about where you're going you could easily add in some more information. Kind of surprised he didn't come find us last night, that's a hell of a reading bender to go on. I'm guessing he's probably not in the library anymore.
Perception = 33 to hopefully notice the sign in the sky
Falco Ambersier (Ryan M) Status: None | 75/84 HP | | AC 19(24) (T15/F15) | Channel (6d6) 5/7 DC18 | d20+18=31 ; Thursday October 5th, 2023 9:40:22 AM
Falco just keeps looking around as they walk. He has little hope that they will find their friend in the library as that would mean he spent the night there. Still a walk around a strange city is always nice. He still has honey on the mind and look for a shop while they walk.
Mak(JamesM)(123/123)|AC:28/18T/--FF|CMD 34| Arrows/14+1 CLB|16/11/6/16(RS)/-|(FA,WF,WS,WT,DA,RS,MS,IG)**|1d8+15(MS)(20)x3)) Thursday October 5th, 2023 3:13:13 PM "I'm with you Falco. We'll get by one way or another. We don't need a guide." Mak said to his small friend.
Kiwina (Steve M) 131/131 HP | Current AC:22 or 26 vs AoO | HeP: 0 | Status: awake ! Swim 60' Thursday October 5th, 2023 5:59:39 PM "I don't know, Mak. Heard odd things about this forest."
Ayotnom Ogini Hugh C 92/92 | AC : 22; Touch 20; Flat 15 CMD 32(34 vs Trip, Grapple or Disarm) Thursday October 5th, 2023 8:31:46 PM
Ayotnom asks Kiwana, "How bad could a forest be? You've seen one you've most likely seen them all. Yeah they might have different flora and fauna but isn't it typically some trees and some beasties?"
DM Dominik - Investigations in Cresthaven Thursday October 5th, 2023 9:14:02 PM
Beech puts the gnome to bed then sets himself up for the night and morning. In the morning, he begins breakfast and sends up a signal to let Panzer know where he is.
Elyas asks if Beech is always this secretive.
Falco's mind wonders between concern for his friend and his stomach's calling for honey.
Mak still thinks they would be fine without a guide.
Kiwina is still cautious about going into the forest without a guide.
Anoytom doesn't see what the big deal is, a forest is a forest.
Tsak and Panzer walk with the group but seem to be distracted by figuring out the code of the letter. ----------------------------------------------- As Beech re-enters the gnome abode, he notices the gnome has sat up and is sniffing the air. "Very well, food first." the gnome responds. You do notice that despite his inebriation last night, he doesn't seem to be hungover. Mid-mouthful he looks at Beech, "Its a little bit rude that you have not introduced yourself, or your group for that matter." He does his best to hide a sly smile behind a serious face. After you introduce yourself, he will follow suite, "Theron, senior leader of the Blackbirds..." He gets solemn for a moment "...former senior leader." You finish your food and get set to leave when you hear a knock on the door.
As the group wander the city, Elyas notices a strange symbol in the sky and points it out to the group. Panzer says, "That it is a symbol from Beech. its a marker for his location, we should follow it." The group does its best to follow the marker until Panzer recognizes a cloak resting on a hook outside a simple home. Panzer approaches and knocks on the door.
Panzer Braun (David F) AC 29 (T17, FF25) CMD 33 HP 158/158 ) Character Sheet d20+25=35 ; Thursday October 5th, 2023 9:18:49 PM
A shudder runs through Panzer's frame. They just don't understand. " I mean if that's the way y'all feel I'll see you after you get back. EVERY time I walked into the Culverwood it tried to kill me. Our group were living on the edge of the forest and had something like 3-4 people who either worshiped Ma'ab or the Culverwood itself and it didn't give a monkey's tail. Half the times we went in there we were trying to HELP the forest and it tried to kill us. No thanks. I guess I'll watch the boat 'til you get back." Perception 35 to see Beech's message in the sky, or cloak if we are walking by it.
Tsak Rezar (Damien) AC22(22) (T15/F14) 123/123 HP| Falchion +4 2D4+3|Crossbow1 1D8+1 Status: Thursday October 5th, 2023 11:45:36 PM
Tsak gives Panzer a friendly pat on the shoulder They're simple folk, they don't understand
To the others in the group If I had two rangers and someone who's already been there telling me to be ware of that bunch of trees and shrubs over there, well I'd like to think it would give me pause. Or has Mak's stupid become infectious? the last said with a playful punch to the fighters shoulder.
Ah a sign, tally ho!
Beech (JohnC) AC 20(24)/15/15,HP 82/82 Character Friday October 6th, 2023 12:53:53 AM "Yes, well last night you were a bit into the bottle as mom would say. As to my name, I'm Beech, Son of Aztyr, of the Black Bird Lake Heroes. That's mom's old title. But I'm guessing you already knew who I was." After about three bites, "'squze meh" Beech mumbles as he chews and swallows quickly before answering the door. "Mornin', I'm hoping you got the message last evening, with my coded Tree, Sun and a Flower of the outside. I'm also sure you got the sign I put up a while ago, because you're here. Come in, I'd like to introduce you to the Gentleman who has agreed to be our guide.... Theron, a Former Senior Leader, after a recent leadership change in The Blackbirds. Sorry about not returning to the Rose, but a friend in need.... And no Panzer, I didn't make fresh biscuits this morning, but I can probably scrounge out a couple cinnamon rolls from my haversack."
Mak(JamesM)(123/123)|AC:28/18T/--FF|CMD 34| Arrows/14+1 CLB|16/11/6/16(RS)/-|(FA,WF,WS,WT,DA,RS,MS,IG)**|1d8+15(MS)(20)x3)) Friday October 6th, 2023 8:33:14 AM "Not stupid my friend." Mak replied. "Confident in our abilities. We come here and two people we barely know want us to get a guide? Maybe they need a guide, but we've done well enough without them in the past. Also, have you forgotten the Deep? We've no idea about these two or even if the "guide" they want is connected to Grovas and whatever plot Nevras was cooking up."
Falco Ambersier (Ryan M) Status: None | 75/84 HP | | AC 19(24) (T15/F15) | Channel (6d6) 5/7 DC18 | Friday October 6th, 2023 9:26:25 AM
Falco happily follows to the sign that was set while listening to the others talk. Mak's statements make him a little nervous. {b]"I think losing people may make us a little more cautious but you are correct we are a capable of handling most things, less so in small buildings. I think it is worth talking to the guide to see what they have to say." [/b]
Kiwina (Steve M) 131/131 HP | Current AC:22 or 26 vs AoO | HeP: 0 | Status: awake ! Swim 60' Friday October 6th, 2023 11:25:55 AM "Why are the guides called blackbirds?" Kiwina isn't going to get into an argument with Mak about forests that are also powers, or all but.
Panzer Braun (David F) AC 29 (T17, FF25) CMD 33 HP 158/158 ) Character Sheet Friday October 6th, 2023 4:44:21 PM
Panzer holds up his hands. " Easy guys. Mak definitely has a point. None of you know me from a hole in the wall, why should you trust me. But when I say Iam not going into those woods without a guide that knows what they are up against I am not kidding. It won't happen. " "Look at it this way, You don't know me but I am urging caution. I don't have the foggiest idea what mission you are on and every time you try to tell me I hear gobbledygook and you all hear the explanation. I'm still willing to help you. Can't you indulge me and get a local guide that knows the land and the demeanor of the forest?" " And for the record I never called you stupid. I am just frustrated you can't at least listen to how I have seen the awakened forests of the Wold and have some caution. Look I am fairly certain I can fight my way out of any trouble I get myself into. Is that healthy? The answer is no, because I am really good at getting into anawful lot of trouble. But the thouht gives me the confidence to struggle on. " Panzer turns to the gnome and extends a hand in greeting. " Well met Theron. My name is Panzer and I am happy to meet you."
Tsak Rezar (Damien) AC22(22) (T15/F14) 123/123 HP| Falchion +4 2D4+3|Crossbow1 1D8+1 Status: Friday October 6th, 2023 9:27:24 PM Nah, that was me. I called stupid stupid.
Tsak continues to give Mak side eye as he turns to the door of the house they have approached and spots Beech and a small, wiry old guy.
Cinnamon rolls sound great! Good morning kind sir. I'm Tsak, these are the Petals, what can you tell us about the woods?
DM Dominik - Investigations in Cresthaven Friday October 6th, 2023 9:43:46 PM
Panzer tries to explain to the group, again, why a guide is necessary. He spots Beech's cloak as they are walking.
Tsak backs Panzer's stance on needing a guide, throwing in a playful jab. He asks what the gnome knows about the woods.
Mak backs his own abilities, cautious towards trusting the new members.
Falco thinks Mak's caution is warranted but is willing to hear out a guide.
Kiwina tries to change the subject by asking about the Blackbirds.
Beech introduces himself to the gnome. He answers the door and invites the party to introduce them to his new friend and hired guide.
Ayotnom and Elyas follow along with the group on their journey to find Beech. ---------------------------------- The group crowds into the humble house, which makes the gnome slightly uncomfortable. He quickly goes about doing introductions and ushering the party out before they break anything. Once everyone is outside, he will excuse himself to gather his stuff. He reappears a few minutes later in a tattered, faded cloak with a backpack. He turns to the group, "The trip is going to be a couple days, do you need to get anything before we leave?" If anyone speaks up, he will allow you to do your shopping. After the group is all set, you walk through the town towards the gate. As you walk, Theron explains, "The woods are a living forest and are very dangerous. They constantly shift and change patterns. Maps are ineffectual as they are rarely accurate for more then a couple hours. Stay close to the group. If you get lost or separated from the group, stay put. Do not wander around or you may end up lost forever. Do not harm any animals or plants without my permission. A wrong move may put us on the bad side of they fey, and that should be avoided at all costs. Any questions?" Just outside of the town gate, a group of 6 Blackbirds approach the group. Panzer recognizes the dwarf that heads the group, the dwarf says, "Theron, Theron, Theron. You know your not allowed to be guiding parties into the woods without guild approval. Theron responds, "You pompous brown-noser." The dwarf does not take kindly to the words and starts to get aggravated. The rest of the cloaks are on edge, eyeing up the party.
Panzer Braun (David F) AC 29 (T17, FF25) CMD 33 HP 158/158 ) Character Sheet d20+3=14 ; d20=8 ; d20+25=44 ; Saturday October 7th, 2023 12:08:30 AM
Panzer loses not a second and steps right up to the dwarf. Seeing eye to, well, chest, he tells the dwarf to pound sand. " You had a shot to be our guide last night hotshot. We weren't good enough to talk to then. We found a guide we like and you can just go hug a tree. If you think the six of you have the stones to take us have at it, but remember just one thing, the entire thieves guild of Karri thought they had the stones too, 'till I cut them off and handed them to them." Panzer is ready to go. If this dwarf is serious about this then Panzer is his guy. Sense motive 14 to gauge his level of confidence Intimidate 8 to sound tough Perception 44 to make sure he counted right and didn't miss any lurkers
Beech (JohnC) AC 20(24)/15/15,HP 82/82 Character d20+10=15 ; Saturday October 7th, 2023 1:46:19 AM
As the Dwarf and his friends confront them..... Beech laughs, a good hearty belly laugh. When he finally stops his laughing, "Run along children, (this from a teenager) the adults don't want to have to spank you, because we might just end up breaking you around the edges..... and in the middle. So just go back to your club house and have some more milk and cookies, as anything stronger, you might get it in your head that you're tough. Oh, and here's some cookies, in case you want to claim you don't have any." Beech reaches into his saddle bags and finds a sack with cookies that are only 5 or 6 days old in it, that they are mostly crumbs, he don't care. with his other hand, he pulls out a small crystal to have ready as a focus....
Intimidate 15
Mak(JamesM)(123/123)|AC:28/18T/--FF|CMD 34| Arrows/14+1 CLB|16/11/6/16(RS)/-|(FA,WF,WS,WT,DA,RS,MS,IG)**|1d8+15(MS)(20)x3)) d20+18=29 ; Saturday October 7th, 2023 1:27:59 PM
Mak glared at Panzer and Beech as he handed his bow to Falco and stepped forward in his Aisilduran noble attire complete with the tabard that marked him as from house Ebonblade. With his hand on the hilt of his jeweled adamantine rapier Mak set a rakish pose and said. "Our contract is with Theron, as ill advised as that might have been, and our need is dire. Can't you make an exception in this case and ignore these two buffoons that threatened you. We really don't want any trouble here."
OOC: Diplomacy +18, Roll 29
Kiwina (Steve M) 131/131 HP | Current AC:22 or 26 vs AoO | HeP: 0 | Status: awake ! Swim 60' Saturday October 7th, 2023 2:51:38 PM (Not sure that Kiwina crowded into a gnomes house -- with Ayotnom there, to boot. ;-) He was uncomfortable enough squeezing into the necromancer's house. But he can loom outside the doorway.)
When the guides accost the group, Kiwina does not say anything. The rod he carries is not weighted for use as a weapon. His short sword and dagger are sheathed.
===== Ranger: 1st -- entangle, speak with animals Druid: 0th -- create water, detect magic, flare, light 1st -- obscuring mist, cure light wounds, entangle, produce flame, speak with animals, summon nature's ally I 2nd -- fog cloud, flaming sphere, hold animal, resist energy, soften earth and stone 3rd -- call lightning, meld into stone, neutralize poison, spike growth 4th -- sleet storm, control water, flame strike Aumakua have one 1st-level ranger spell Storm burst -- none used
Ayotnom Ogini Hugh C 92/92 | AC : 22; Touch 20; Flat 15 CMD 32(34 vs Trip, Grapple or Disarm) d20-1=11 ; Sunday October 8th, 2023 6:54:12 PM
Diplomacy: 11
Ayotnom asks "Is there any way we can expedite approval of our guide here?"
As the group move thru town Tsak takes the time to grab some trail rations (4 days, the best he can get, into his pack, paid 8gp) and make sure he has clean, clear water with him.
When they meet the Blackbirds Tsak moves quietly closer to the gnome so he's between him and any dwarves. He picks the closest dwarf and stares him down (Intimidate) without uttering a sound. His hand is on his sword hilt, but the sword stays sheathed. He doesn't bother looking at the other Blackbirds but trusts the rest of the petals will keep on eye on them. Hopefully these guys are smart enough to take the easy way out.
Elyas (Ben A.) (59/92 HP | AC: 21; Touch:15; Flat: 18; CMD:15) | status: d20+7=13 ; Monday October 9th, 2023 9:18:45 AM
Elyas looks back and forth between the groups.
"I'm sorry, clearly there is some history here, but we're in a bit of a hurry and this fine gentleman offered his services which we have accepted. We don't want to get in the middle of whatever your disagreement is, so perhaps you can sort it all out when we come back?
Aid diplomacy: 13
'Falco (RyanM) AC20 T16 F16, CMD 24, HP 87/87 Channel 7/7 (6d6) Monday October 9th, 2023 9:43:51 AM "Well that escalated quickly." Falco mumbles as he discovers the potion the party is being put in. Personally he would rather the gnome to the dwarves purely based on their approach this morning. He moves beside Mak to support him in his approach.
DM Dominik - Investigations in Cresthaven Monday October 9th, 2023 9:59:59 PM
Panzer steps to the dwarf ready to rumble.
Beech backs up Panzer's tough talk.
Mak attempts to insert some diplomacy into the mix.
Kiwina stays to the back but starts to assess his combat options.
Ayotnom asks if there is anyway to expedite approval.
Tsak makes sure to put himself between the group and the gnome.
Elyas backs up Mak and Ayotnom's diplomacy efforts.
Falco was not expecting a confrontation but has sided with the gnome. ------------------------------------------- The dwarf eyes up the party and quickly realizes his group is outmatched. He relaxes his demeanor, "Fine, be on your way. But Theron, I would watch your back." He signals to the group to move away. You notice that several of them breathe a sigh of relief, they did not want a fight.
The group is free to continue on their journey. A few moments later, Theron speaks up, "Thank you, I have not had someone stick up for me like that in a long time."
Panzer Braun (David F) AC 29 (T17, FF25) CMD 33 HP 158/158 ) Character Sheet Monday October 9th, 2023 10:27:31 PM
Panzer turns to Mak and the others that exercised diplomacy. " Um,I'm sorry? Their group snubbed me and laughed me off last night. They were definitely picking on Teron and I won't let an ally stand alone. Like Beech once said right or wrong, they are my ally and I have their back. So, sorry I made that rough for you to negotiate." To Theron he says " You chose us, we protect you. You're my ally now and hopefully my friend. I have your back, especially against bullies like that."
Kiwina (Steve M) 131/131 HP | Current AC:22 or 26 vs AoO | HeP: 0 | Status: awake ! Swim 60' Monday October 9th, 2023 10:34:00 PM "They just made me think that the guild has no power over the woods, so we'd better have a savvy guide. So you were saying there are fey in the woods?"
Tsak Rezar (Damien) AC22(22) (T15/F14) 123/123 HP| Falchion +4 2D4+3|Crossbow1 1D8+1 Status: Tuesday October 10th, 2023 12:10:39 AM
As the party of 'guides' moves away Tsak starts to think about the walking/scouting/fighting arrangements of the party. Something they haven't discussed or organised since the new members joined.
Maybe we need to organise ourselves a bit before we get attacked. Who wants to go where?
Ayotnom Ogini Hugh C 92/92 | AC : 22; Touch 20; Flat 15 CMD 32(34 vs Trip, Grapple or Disarm) Tuesday October 10th, 2023 4:04:01 AM
Ayotnom says to the gnome, "I don't like that Dwarf's tone. Do you think he'll pull anything?"
Mak(JamesM)(123/123)|AC:28/18T/--FF|CMD 34| Arrows/12+1 CLB|16/11/6/16(RS)/-|(FA,WF,WS,WT,DA,RS,MS,IG)**|1d8+15(MS)(20)x3)) Tuesday October 10th, 2023 8:12:23 AM
Mak's posture eased somewhat at Panzers apology. "Just remember that we are diplomatic agents of the Taur Isles representing the leadership there. I've made enough diplomatic blunders myself as many here can attest, so no harm done. I guess we should carry on with this journey and the guide we've chosen."
Mak recovered his bow from Falco and slung it over his shoulder ready for use should he need it.
**Full Attack, Weapon Focus, Weapon Specialization, Weapon Training, Deadly Aim, Rapid Shot, Many Shot, Attacks ignore AC benefits and miss chances from anything less than total cover or concealment| Darkvision| Encumbrance:45 lbs| Move: 30 | DR1 (Adamantine Armor) | Condition: Feelin' Fine! | | Range: 0-85 Feet |
Elyas (Ben A.) (59/92 HP | AC: 21; Touch:15; Flat: 18; CMD:15) | status: Tuesday October 10th, 2023 9:24:11 AM We should definitely be on our guard. we have met some fey before, they are sometimes helpful but it always comes at a cost. There is no way this passage will be easy
Before entering the woods, Elyas will cast 'See Invisibility' on himself. He prepared a few extra castings of it for the day to refesh the spell as needed.
Spells prepared:
cantrips: Resistance, detect magic, light, mending Level 1: 2/2X protection from evil, mage armor, 3/3X magic missile, Comprehend Languages Level 2: Darkvision, Scorching Ray, Mirror Image, Glitterdust, 2/3X see invisibility Level 3: 2X Dispel Magic, Haste, Fly, 2X Lightning Bolt Level 4: 2X summon monster IV, Dimensional Anchor, Greater Invisibility, Black tentacles, Wall of Fire Level 5: Baleful Polymorph, Summon Monster V, Teleport, Cone of Cold, Break Enchantment Level 6: 2X Chain Lightning, Summon Monster VI, Flesh to Stone Level 7: 2X Summon Monster VII, Force Cage Special: Acid Dart (10/10 remain, 1d6+6), pearl of power 1, bonded item, Quicken Rod 3/3 uses left, dimensional steps (390/390)
Active effects: On Self: Mage Armor (13 hours) darkvision (13 hours) See invisibility (130 minutes)
On Party
Summon
'Falco (RyanM) AC20 T16 F16, CMD 24, HP 87/87 Channel 7/7 (6d6) d20+7=22 ; Tuesday October 10th, 2023 9:57:21 AM
Before they left Falco did stop and buy a few more rations along with a jar of honey for the journey.
Falco eyes the dwarves and speaks with them before the walk off. "Time to calm down boys, he is in our employ now so leave him be. If it is a matter of guild policies someone can discuss us it with us on our boat when we return but, please, don't let us hear of you harassing him later. It would be a bad look for all involved as we did give you lot a shot the night before."
As they discuss marching order.
"I will go in the back, between my bow and sharp eyes that is probably the best spot for me."
Panzer Braun (David F) AC 29 (T17, FF25) CMD 33 HP 158/158 ) Character Sheet Tuesday October 10th, 2023 1:40:42 PM " Right, diplomacy first." " I can be pretty observant, and if there is trouble I want to be able to get up to it as fast as possible. That said I am awful at tracking and other disabling and avoidance things so our scouts and guides should probably be in front of me or at least in the same rank as me to direct the group. So second line for me, first if there is an opening. Sound good?"
OOC Panzer fights two weapon style and does middling damage (almost all bonus damage, his weapons do a d3, so static damage each hit) with decent to hits. He shines in that 25% of his strikes are critical threats that he can auto confirm if he has a moment to prep himself. He has a good hard AC and shrugs off 3 points from any hits due to adamantine plate. His saves are decent. Whay is the "condition" you add to your status lines? Never seen that before.
Beech (JohnC) AC 20(24)/15/15,HP 82/82 Character Tuesday October 10th, 2023 2:49:45 PM
After the other group leaves, "Theron here told me there was a resent change in The Blackbird's leadership. He did not care for it and chose to leave. I decided to act to humiliate them, because they are overly arrogant and now that I've met them, bullies to boot. I wouldn't be surprised if they try to pull something out in the woods, making the Woods try and repel everyone. Panzer and I have survived one set of Woods, plus we both have one of these." He indicates the small white flower they both use as a cloak clasp. "It's a sign from Queen Maab herself, that we have her blessing. Although we did exit from her presence the last time we saw her. But the Fey are probably the least of our problems, oh, everyone should have some bauble or something trivial but usually shiny to offer as a gift for and good Fey we encounter, doesn't need to be expensive. Me, I carry some muffins and cookies, not crumbs like I pushed towards the idiots." "Oh, I can be diplomatic, but I chose not to be towards the Blackbirds. Our new friend, wouldn't mind seeing them knocked down a few pegs."
Mak(JamesM)(123/123)|AC:28/18T/--FF|CMD 34| Arrows/12+1 CLB|16/11/6/16(RS)/-|(FA,WF,WS,WT,DA,RS,MS,IG)**|1d8+15(MS)(20)x3)) Tuesday October 10th, 2023 6:52:44 PM "OK. Panzer, up front with the guide. Kiwina, you and I behind them to back them up with tracking and any martial support they might need. Elyas, Beech take the center ranks and Falco you take the rear with Tsak. Theron, any trouble starts I want you to fall back next to Elyas and Beech. And remember diplomacy first."
Mak listened to the suggestion about trinkets for any fey they encountered and thought that a good idea. He rummaged through his pack trying to find the perfect item. He eventually produced a set of nesting dolls, each representing a different deity and transferred them to his belt pouch.
OOC:
Theron/Panzer Kiwina/Mak Elyas/Beech Falco/Tsak
Kiwina (Steve M) 131/131 HP | Current AC:22 or 26 vs AoO | HeP: 0 | Status: awake ! Swim 60' Tuesday October 10th, 2023 8:39:29 PM "It'll be a real treat, Mak, watching your diplomacy with trees."
DM Dominik - Investigations in Cresthaven Tuesday October 10th, 2023 9:03:06 PM
Panzer gives the group motive for his actions. He tells Theron that he has his back. He understands what Mak is explaining. He wants to be near the front.
Kiwina begins to question how much power the guild has.
Tsak realizes that if a fight had occurred the party was unprepared for it, re-organizing the party based on the strengths of the new members was necessary.
Ayotnom asks if the dwarf could be up to something.
Mak explains that this group represents something bigger then just them and have to try and act accordingly.
Elyas immediately focuses on the journey ahead and the potential dangers.
Falco lets the guildmembers know that they will be open to discussions once they return and to watch their actions. He offers to bring up the rear.
Beech understands the need for diplomacy but this was personal.
Mak organizes the group and gives the marching orders. --------------------------- The dwarf gives a disgruntled huff and stomps off. The rest of the group follows suite, many without giving the group a second look. Theron responds to Ayotnom, "I'm not sure, best to keep our guard up." Theron looks at Beech, "Thats best discussed in private. We should be on our way." Theron is eager to get on with the journey.
The group settles into their marching order and heads off into the forest. {Survival or Perception checks} Theron seems to be enjoying being back in the forest. He is bounding about, smelling flowers, grabbing a few berries to pop into his mouth.
The day is sunny, the wind is very subtle, perfect day for traversing the woods. Small animals skitter about including rabbits, squirrels and birds make their presence known.
Ayotnom Ogini Hugh C 92/92 | AC : 22; Touch 20; Flat 15 CMD 32(34 vs Trip, Grapple or Disarm) d20+19=24 ; Tuesday October 10th, 2023 9:19:22 PM
Perception: 24
Ayotnom keeps his eyes open as they start their way through the forest.
Kiwina (Steve M) 131/131 HP | Current AC:22 or 26 vs AoO | HeP: 0 | Status: awake ! Swim 60' d20+20=40 ; d20+22=23 ; Tuesday October 10th, 2023 11:03:39 PM
(Perception = 40, survival = 23)
Kiwina stays alert as they move into the woods.
Tsak Rezar (Damien) AC22(22) (T15/F14) 123/123 HP| Falchion +4 2D4+3|Crossbow1 1D8+1 Status: d20+18=19 ; Wednesday October 11th, 2023 1:32:15 AM
(Perception=19) Tsak nods at Mak's suggestion Good job bud, so you want Ayotnom to swing from tree to tree or what? With a grin on his face and without waiting for a reply he moves to take up the rear. Tsak keeps his focus on what's happening behind them (Perception), assuming that those in the middle of the party will watch the flanks.
Mak(JamesM)(123/123)|AC:28/18T/--FF|CMD 34| Arrows/12+1 CLB|16/11/6/16(RS)/-|(FA,WF,WS,WT,DA,RS,MS,IG)**|1d8+15(MS)(20)x3)) d20+7=26 ; Wednesday October 11th, 2023 8:26:53 AM 'Trees? I'm barely up to snuff on people." Mak joked back. "No, trees are your territory. I'll be happy to sit in the back and watch you operate." Mak finished in response to Kiwina.
"Can Ayotnom do that?" Mak quipped. "That would be handy I suppose. Ayotnom, pick a spot and let's get going." he said to the large minotaur.
Mak had his bow out and managed to bag enough of the small animals to feed them all on day one. Since he caught it, he let the others dress and prepare it. [b]"When we get closer to the forest we'll probably have to go on rations. Hate to take down one of the fey's closest friends.
OOC: Survival +7, Roll 26
'Falco (RyanM) AC20 T16 F16, CMD 24, HP 87/87 Channel 7/7 (6d6) d20+21=35 ; Wednesday October 11th, 2023 9:36:43 AM
{Perception: 35}
In the back Falco uses his keen eyes and sharp ears to keep watch. HE doesn't spare the dwarves a second look but does occasionally turn his head around 180 degrees to watch behind them.
Elyas (Ben A.) (59/92 HP | AC: 21; Touch:15; Flat: 18; CMD:15) | status: d20+15=33 ; Wednesday October 11th, 2023 4:40:10 PM
Elyas keeps watch, with the help of darkvision if it matters.
Perception = 33
Elyas comments to their guide Sure looks pleasant enough. What should we be watching for? is there anythign we can do to win favor with the fey so they let us through?
Beech (JohnC) AC 20(24)/15/15,HP 82/82 See Invis/Darkvision Character d20+21=22 ; Wednesday October 11th, 2023 6:52:29 PM
Beech, once they get out of the town, carries his bow in one hand, his fingers seem to move randomly, but anyone familiar with him, knows he's ready to shoot or cast. "Let's head on Theron, you got the lead..." To Elyas, Beech replies "Fey are variable, with what we would consider the "Good" Fey Court, they can go from Helpful to just outright unpleasant. Noe the Dark Fey, or Evil Ones can go from neutral to just plane Cruel. And that's just from a random meeting." Beech keeps watch as well....
Perception Check : 22
Ayotnom Ogini Hugh C 92/92 | AC : 22; Touch 20; Flat 15 CMD 32(34 vs Trip, Grapple or Disarm) Wednesday October 11th, 2023 8:49:24 PM
(OOC: Checking In)
Time slows down for Ayotnom as the party ventures into the woods.
DM Dominik - Investigations in Cresthaven Wednesday October 11th, 2023 9:00:02 PM
Ayotnom keeps a watchful eye, ignoring the chattering of his comrades about hanging from trees.
Kiwina perceives the blades of grass, the leaves gently swaying in the breeze, and the sounds of mating of some squirrels in a tree they pass.
Tsak jokes that Mak is going to try to talk to the trees.
Mak quips back at Tsak and fancies seeing Ayotnom swinging from trees. His small game hunting easily feeds the group for the night.
Falco makes sure to double check their backside, making sure nothing surprises the group.
Elyas asks Theron what dangers there are in these woods.
Beech is prepared to strike with bow or spell. He shares his knowledge of fey with Elyas and the group.
Panzer follows the gnome in the front of the group, keeping an eye out for any signs of trouble, ------------------------------------------------------- The group ventures for the day without much incident. Despite Theron's gleeful demeanor he was suspiciously vague about details of the woods and the fey. Every once in a while, Theron would come across some tree or rock and switch the direction the party was going towards. He seemed to be confident in his directions, though Kiwina and Mak didn't really notice any need for the direction switches. If asked, Theron responds, "Fey" and basically expects the group to follow without any more questions.
Theron leads you to a place that is set up for a campsite. It has logs to sit, places for tents, and a fire pit already built. Theron does some scouting around the perimeter and the happily announces they should be good for setting up camp. Falco assures the group that they were not followed.
Ayotnom Ogini Hugh C 92/92 | AC : 22; Touch 20; Flat 15 CMD 32(34 vs Trip, Grapple or Disarm) Wednesday October 11th, 2023 9:06:09 PM
Ayotnom says to Mak, "Perhaps if I learned spiderclimb and prepared it, but right now I'm focused on something else."
Ayotnom says to Theron, "Did the fey setup this campsite too? If so is it safe to accept their hospitality? I have heard stories."
Panzer Braun (David F) AC 29 (T17, FF25) CMD 33 HP 158/158 ) Character Sheet d20+25=28 ; Wednesday October 11th, 2023 9:23:40 PM
Perception 28 to keep watch during the night Panzer finds a good spot to set up his bedroll and gets that done. He also will help gathering DEAD wood from the floor of the forest. HE isn't going to light a fire but with the wood gathered anyone else can.
Kiwina (Steve M) 131/131 HP | Current AC:22 or 26 vs AoO | HeP: 0 | Status: awake ! Swim 60' Wednesday October 11th, 2023 10:27:46 PM
Kiwina thinks perhaps the Blackbirds set up the campsite -- which may mean the others know where it is. If so, Kiwina takes his cue from Thaddeus not being worried about setting up camp. "How do you want to handle watches?"
Mak(JamesM)(123/123)|AC:28/18T/--FF|CMD 34| Arrows/12+1 CLB|16/11/6/16(RS)/-|(FA,WF,WS,WT,DA,RS,MS,IG)**|1d8+15(MS)(20)x3)) d20+7=15 ; d20+18=19 ; Thursday October 12th, 2023 8:32:44 AM
Mak adjusted his glasses. "I should be able to help on one of the later watches with these." he said as he adjusted his bow. "I would like to scout out the area a bit. See if any ambush points are nearby."
Mak then started at the edge of the camp and wandered outward for a hundred feet. He was looking for signs of people of animals in the area as well as places people might be able to hide.
OOC: Survival +7, Roll 15 Perception +18, Roll 19 (Good thing you can't fumble these.)
'Falco (RyanM) AC20 T16 F16, CMD 24, HP 87/87 Channel 7/7 (6d6) Thursday October 12th, 2023 9:40:22 AM
Falco gives another look around and approaches Theron. [b] "Are there generally campsites like this set and waiting? It is useful but I would assume anyone that wants would know where we are."{/b]
Setting up his bedroll and grabbing a ration pack Falco will happily take a guard shift as long as he can get his required rest to refresh his spells.
Beech (JohnC) AC 20(24)/15/15,HP 82/82 See Invis/Darkvision Character Thursday October 12th, 2023 3:17:24 PM
Before Mak heads out, "Do not go beyond sight of the camp, I'd like to get some rest tonight, rather than spend the night searching for missing people. These Woods, not only have Fey and other things in them, the Woods themselves are alive and are not keen on being moved through. I don't have personal experience with this Wood, but you never leave sight of those you are traveling with." After that quick conversation, Beech thanks Panzer for collecting the wood for a fire, he starts a small campfire and pulls out his pot. He makes a stew, starting with the meat cooking first. Once he gets it going, he mixes up and then cooks fresh flatbread. He'd rather do rolls, but no oven..... DMHighlight to display spoiler: { marking off 30 gold for various cooking supplies, ingredients and the meat, including some pots and a couple good sized griddles.}
Panzer Braun (David F) AC 29 (T17, FF25) CMD 33 HP 158/158 ) Character Sheet Thursday October 12th, 2023 3:44:46 PM
Panzer asks Theron if it is OK to cut a few boughs to make a nice spot to sleep in and if it is he will cut a few to make a bed after he sets up his tent. He can take whatever watch they need since his goggles let him see in the dark and he has no spells to memorize.
Panzer Braun (David F) AC 29 (T17, FF25) CMD 33 HP 158/158 ) Character Sheet Thursday October 12th, 2023 3:45:56 PM
Note, Panzer will not be sleeping in his armor. So he is only armored on his watch. His knives are always close at hand tho.
DM Dominik - Escapades in the Blackbird Forest Thursday October 12th, 2023 8:49:55 PM
Ayotnom considers learning a spell to swing from trees but it more concerned about their current situation. He questions Theron about the campsite.
Panzer helps with the gathering of wood. He checks with Theron about his chosen sleep area. He also takes a watch shift.
Kiwina believes this is a Blackbirds campsite and follows Theron's lead. He asks about the watch schedule.
Mak decides to scout the area to verify its safety and volunteers for a shift.
Falco asks Theron about the existence of the campsite. He volunteers to take the first or last shift to be able to get his full rest.
Beech cautions Mak to not stray too far, a taurhunt would not be ideal. He thanks Panzer for his efforts in collecting wood. He will cook up a stew with the small game collected on their travels.
Elyas and Tsak settle in for the night. ------------------------------------ Theron assures the group, "This is a Blackbird campsite. They are setup around the forest. They have glyphs on the trees for protection against the fey." He points to a few trees which indeed have something carved into them. "I would not be worried about an attack from other Blackbirds, they know better then to travel at night." He assess the spot Panzer has picked out, "Hhmmm.....hmmm..." as he circles the bough, "You should be good. I don't see any recent fey activity." Mak's scouting proves Theron's statement. You find evidence of grazing but nothing that would point to a dangerous predator. While the campsite is not particularly hidden it has easy view into the forest, without not much in the ways of providing cover. Beech's stew is hearty and filling. The night passes without incident. Theron helps everyone pack up and they set off towards their next checkpoint.
Ayotnom Ogini Hugh C 92/92 | AC : 22; Touch 20; Flat 15 CMD 32(34 vs Trip, Grapple or Disarm) d20+19=23 ; Thursday October 12th, 2023 9:02:00 PM
Ayotnom keeps his eyes open as they continue to travel through the wood.
Perception: 23
Tsak Rezar (Damien) AC22(22) (T15/F14) 123/123 HP| Falchion +4 2D4+3|Crossbow1 1D8+1 Status: d20+18=36 ; Friday October 13th, 2023 12:52:42 AM
(Perception=36) Tsak helps clean up after the stew, enjoys a good nights sleep and is up early prepared to leave. When the party sets off again he brings up the rear with his head on a swivel.
'Falco (RyanM) AC20 T16 F16, CMD 24, HP 87/87 Channel 7/7 (6d6) Friday October 13th, 2023 8:20:36 AM
Falco still doesn't love sleeping outdoors but knows it must be done in their line of work. His bedroll is at least comfortable and keeping watch is fun. In the morning he communes with the Warper-sar getting is powers refreshed for what will come.
Mak(JamesM)(123/123)|AC:28/18T/--FF|CMD 34| Arrows/12+1 CLB|16/11/6/16(RS)/-|(FA,WF,WS,WT,DA,RS,MS,IG)**|1d8+15(MS)(20)x3)) Friday October 13th, 2023 9:13:25 AM
Mak was used to sleeping in his light armor and had paid once for not doing so. Needless to say he kept his bow close, armor and glasses on as he slept. During his watch he set his back against a tree and watched out for any that would come within sight. (Darkvision 60')
Elyas (Ben A.) (59/92 HP | AC: 21; Touch:15; Flat: 18; CMD:15) | status: d20+17=27 ; Friday October 13th, 2023 9:25:13 AM
Elyas examines the protective wards that Theron points out, copying an image of one on a piece of paper that he folds and puts back in his bag.
Knowledge Arcana to recognize the warding: 27
He does his normal daily prep, casting Mage Armor and Darkvision on himself. He'll space out his 3 castings of see invisibility over the course of the time they are actively traveling, covering a little over 6 hours of walking time.
Kiwina (Steve M) 131/131 HP | Current AC:22 or 26 vs AoO | HeP: 0 | Status: awake ! Swim 60' Friday October 13th, 2023 1:56:29 PM
As they walk the next day, Kiwina keeps himself occupied in part by trying to figure out what signs Theron looks for as he guides them. Not that they would let anything happen to their guide, but if something did this sort of thing would be good to know.
(Survival =32, perception = 30, taking 10 on both)
Beech (JohnC) AC 20(24)/15/15,HP 82/82 See Invis/Darkvision Character Friday October 13th, 2023 1:59:05 PM
Beech, uses magic to clean up his pots and stuff. (prestidigitation) He stows and of the flat bread that's left, and gets a good nights rest. Left over stew for breakfast may not be a favorite, but no wastage of supplies. He'll try to strike up a conversation with Mak about bows. "I remember my very first bow, it was of course a child's bow, made for me by Vorelle, a friend of moms. When I was old enough she crafted this beauty as well. Now, I've invested a bit of magic into it, which I'm sure you've done as well. With being heroes and all, we are usually facing those of not so nice persuasion, so I asked Alemi to empower my bow. But the enchantment I've found oh so useful is one I don't see very often. You know how those who use magic can make the area around them a bit fuzzy which can cause the arrows to miss at the last second? When I found one that counter acts that oh so nicely." He is of course talking about the Holy & Seeking enchantments,
Panzer Braun (David F) AC 29 (T17, FF25) CMD 33 HP 158/158 ) Character Sheet d20+25=34 ; Friday October 13th, 2023 9:46:15 PM
Once Panzer wakes up he will clean up the campsite and patrol the area gathering some more deadwood to leave for the fire for the next group through here. He takes point with Theron and keeps his eyes peeled for trouble. Perception 34
DM Dominik - Escapades in the Blackbird Forest Saturday October 14th, 2023 12:11:45 AM
Ayotnom keeps his wits about him searching for signs of trouble.
Tsak tidies up the campsite and gets a good night sleep. He takes his place at the back of the party and makes sure the party isn't being followed.
Falco doesn't enjoy having to sleep outside but deals with it. He communes with his god in the morning.
Mak stays prepared for battle during the night, whether sleeping or on watch.
Elyas examines the symbols, copying one and placing it in his bag. He spends the morning preparing his spells for the day.
Kiwina tries to figure out how Theron is doing his guiding, just in case of emergency.
Beech cleans up after the meal, preparing leftovers for the morning. He attempts to strike up a conversation about bows with Mak.
Panzer helps to replace the used wood. He leads the group with Theron as they adventure on. ------------------------------------------------------------ Elyas notices that most of the symbols are very good counterfeits but not real arcane sigils. The symbols are not magical and provide no protection from the fey or anything else for that matter.
Kiwina investigates the various trees and rocks that Theron bounces too. He notices that they have small various symbols with arrows pointing different directions. It is not anything you recognize, must be a coded language known by only the Blackbirds. The one you can be fairly certain of is a picture of pixie wings with an X over it and pointing to a certain direction. It appears Theron may not have been lying about the fey territories.
As you travel, Theron continues bouncing around from tree to tree. He eventually brings you clear of the forest and onto a wide dirt trail. "We should be able to take this trail into Wilsden." , Theron remarks. The trail looks like it has been in disuse for a while. Plants have begun to intrude upon the path and there are no visible signs of carriages, horses, or people. You travel for a bit and you come across a wooden sign in the middle of the road. You see the words "No Entry Allowed" carved into it. There are some symbols carved into the bottom of the sign. Theron looks at the sign and begins to back away, "Eh, this is as far as I will be taking you." his voice trembling a bit.
Kiwina (Steve M) 131/131 HP | Current AC:22 or 26 vs AoO | HeP: 0 | Status: awake ! Swim 60' Saturday October 14th, 2023 1:03:18 PM
Kiwina is not exactly surprised to hear that Theron doesn't want to go all the way to Wilsden, but he does want to know why. He also wants to see what they symbols at the bottom of the sign look mean.
"Before you go, Theron, answer a couple of questions for me. If we follow this path away from Wilsden, does it remain safe for us to travel? Where does it go that way? Because it seems to me that if you leave us in the middle of these woods without a safe passage even Mak could follow, then you haven't really done your job."
"What do those symbols on the sign mean, and is that what's got you suddenly upset?"
Mak(JamesM)(123/123)|AC:28/18T/--FF|CMD 34| Arrows/12+1 CLB|16/11/6/16(RS)/-|(FA,WF,WS,WT,DA,RS,MS,IG)**|1d8+15(MS)(20)x3)) Saturday October 14th, 2023 4:04:59 PM
Mak listened to Beech’s tale and the magic on his bow and nodded. “Yes, I have a technique that overcomes that.” He admitted. “Unless they are behind a wall I’m certain O have a good chance of hitting them.”
Beech (JohnC) AC 20(24)/15/15,HP 82/82 See Invis/Darkvision Character d20+18=27 ; Saturday October 14th, 2023 4:55:02 PM
To Mak, "Good, glad to hear that, I know a few archers who don't." As the group arrives at the sign, Beech watches Theron, and sees his inner terror so he asks, "Theron, I take it we are close to Wilsden, the old road will lead us to it?" Beech will look over the sign, and with Comprehend Languages as a permanent spell, he tries to make out the Runes. "You'll remain around out here for us to return, yes?"
Spellcraft check 27
Mak(JamesM)(123/123)|AC:28/18T/--FF|CMD 34| Arrows/12+1 CLB|16/11/6/16(RS)/-|(FA,WF,WS,WT,DA,RS,MS,IG)**|1d8+15(MS)(20)x3)) Saturday October 14th, 2023 7:38:21 PM
Mak listened to Beech’s tale and the magic on his bow and nodded. “Yes, I have a technique that overcomes that.” He admitted. “Unless they are behind a wall I’m certain O have a good chance of hitting them.”
Ayotnom Ogini Hugh C 92/92 | AC : 22; Touch 20; Flat 15 CMD 32(34 vs Trip, Grapple or Disarm) d20+15=18 ; Sunday October 15th, 2023 8:37:45 PM
Ayotnom studies the sign (Linguistics: 18) trying to figure out the sigils underneath the words.
Beech (JohnC) AC 20(24)/15/15,HP 82/82 See Invis/Darkvision Character Sunday October 15th, 2023 10:37:36 PM
Highlight to display spoiler: { Tried sending out email, just making sure everyone got it... new address is jowie069@roadrunner.com }
'Falco (RyanM) AC20 T16 F16, CMD 24, HP 87/87 Channel 7/7 (6d6) d20+13=20 Monday October 16th, 2023 9:42:04 AM
Falco examines the sign to make sure there is nothing of a divine nature though he doubts there is. {Know Religion: 20}
Tsak Rezar (Damien) AC22(22) (T15/F14) 123/123 HP| Falchion +4 2D4+3|Crossbow1 1D8+1 Status: Monday October 16th, 2023 11:35:45 AM
Tsak notes Theron's reaction to the sign. What could it say, bandits, plague? The ranger is a bit surprised that the guide doesn't warn the group when he is so obviously terrified. He waits for an answer to Kiwina's question.
Elyas (Ben A.) (59/92 HP | AC: 21; Touch:15; Flat: 18; CMD:15) | status: d20+17=30 ; d4=1 ; d20+12=18 ; Monday October 16th, 2023 2:24:39 PM
Elyas takes note of the symbols at the campsite but chooses not to say anything to the others at the moment about them.
When they find the sign he looks at the symbols to see if they make any sense ot him Know Arcana = 30 if they are arcane symbols or related to the signs around camp? Linguistics = 18
So... does that mean this is it? or is this a barrier to our path? is there another way around?
Panzer Braun (David F) AC 29 (T17, FF25) CMD 33 HP 158/158 ) Character Sheet d20+25=31 ; Monday October 16th, 2023 9:30:37 PM
Panzer is pretty oblivious to Theron's fears. He sees the symbols, but just assumes he doesn't know the language. So he is about 10 steps ahead when Theron begs off going any further and the rest of the group starts giving the lil guy the third degree. He goes still in the middle of the path and takes a good look at the way ahead. If there is something dangerous or out of place there he'll probably see it. Perception 31
Kiwina (Steve M) 131/131 HP | Current AC:22 or 26 vs AoO | HeP: 0 | Status: awake ! Swim 60' Monday October 16th, 2023 9:40:28 PM
Perhaps his new companions will know, having experience with awakened forests that Kiwina doesn't -- "Is it typical for woods like these to have clear trails like this?"
Ayotnom Ogini Hugh C 92/92 | AC : 22; Touch 20; Flat 15 CMD 32(34 vs Trip, Grapple or Disarm) Monday October 16th, 2023 9:54:58 PM
Ayotnom says, "I've got a bad feeling about" (OOC: Checking in)
Beech (JohnC) AC 20(24)/15/15,HP 82/82 See Invis/Darkvision Character Monday October 16th, 2023 11:05:10 PM "Well, as I said early on, all awakened woods are somewhat different, but where we were, the forest at first played tricks, some not very nice, but recently it was turning darker, getting more viscous. Now our town, was located in the "tamed" area, the old emperor cleaned it and it hadn't spread back. As to the old road, again, the Culverwood was a law unto itself and if it had any roads, I never laid eyes on it."
DM Dominik - Escapades in the Blackbird Forest Tuesday October 17th, 2023 12:57:46 AM
Kiwina becomes agitated and begins questioning Theron.
Mak enjoys his conversation about bows with Beech.
Beech uses magic to try and read the sign. He is unsure about other forests but the ones he knows usually don't have roads.
Ayotnom studies the sigils on the sign. He gets a bad feeling.
Falco comments about how they always seem to be welcomed wherever they go.
Tsak is curious about Theron's response to the sign and awaits his answers.
Elyas keeps to himself about the arcane symbols at the camp. He is curious to what the sign means to their travel plans.
Panzer marches past the sign before stopping when he hears the commotion behind him. --------------------------------------------- The sign shows some wear from the elements, it has been here for an extended amount of time. The symbols carved under the words are druidic in nature. Elyas and Ayotnom could not recognize the symbols. They were not similar to the symbols near the camp. Beech looks the symbols with his spell and is able to figure out the message, "This town is under protection by the Blackbird Druids" .
Theron is slightly taken aback by the barrage of questions but composes himself. "These paths are normal safe. We use them to take merchant wagons and bigger parties. But I have never seen a sign such as this. It has the druids mark. One thing we are taught is to never cross the druids." He takes a few steps back and looks cautiously in Panzer's direction. "The town should be just up ahead and in that direction the trail will eventually lead you back to Cresthaven. I would not want to break our deal but no good can come from heading that past that sign. How long would you expect me to wait here?" Theron is attempting to put on a brave face but his hands are very much shaking.
Panzer and Ayotnom, you feel a difference in the air. It feels like the forest has been awakened from a slumber. The calm subtle breeze carries a more sinister feel to it, as the leaves begin to make some noise.
Tsak Rezar (Damien) AC22(22) (T15/F14) 123/123 HP| Falchion +4 2D4+3|Crossbow1 1D8+1 Status: Tuesday October 17th, 2023 2:16:16 AM Would we be crossing the druids just by visiting town? How does that work?
Would they really be risking the druids emnity just by being there? Crikey! They haven't even blown anything up yet?
The ranger waits for the party consensus - though he's pretty sure they'll ignore all the signs of danger, that's just how the Petals role.
Mak(JamesM)(123/123)|AC:28/18T/--FF|CMD 34| Arrows/12+1 CLB|16/11/6/16(RS)/-|(FA,WF,WS,WT,DA,RS,MS,IG)**|1d8+15(MS)(20)x3)) d20+18=21 ; d20+7=10 ; Tuesday October 17th, 2023 8:46:49 AM
Mak wasn't surprised that the way was blocked. Nothing was ever easy. "Theron, if you feel that strongly about it and it's as you say and the village is just up the way, you stay here and wait for us? We can investigate the community and return once we are done."
Mak stooped a bit and checked the ground to see if there were signs of travelers along the path. Even with his meager woodcraft skills he hoped to see something.
OOC: Diplomacy +18, Roll 21. (Holding onto that deep tradition of crap diplo rolls. This time a 3) Survival +7, Roll 10, retry taking 10, Roll 17
Elyas (Ben A.) (59/92 HP | AC: 21; Touch:15; Flat: 18; CMD:15) | status: Tuesday October 17th, 2023 9:00:07 AM
Elyas cocks his head a bit, confused by Theron's reaction.
"Why are you afraid of the druids? Are we doing something that would offend them? We're not trying to stir up trouble with the forest or any of its protectors. Can you tell us any more about them? How can we avoid causing problems here? Is there any way to get a message ot them to talk to them directly and figure out a peaceful way forward?
Elyas lets out an uncharacteristic string of questions, but his curiosity has been roused. Why would it be a problem that the town is protected by druids? Especially druids that share a name with the guides
'Falco (RyanM) AC20 T16 F16, CMD 24, HP 87/87 Channel 7/7 (6d6) Tuesday October 17th, 2023 1:39:14 PM
Falco can see the reaction this is getting from the guide and frowns.
"Generally it is safer with us then without as, with one exception, we have proven able to handle ourselves, but I understand your concern. It may be a couple days." He looks at the Petals. "I worry leaving him here but we probably need him to get home. Anyone have a couple bottle of whisky or something we can leave him with, to calm his nerves."
Beech (JohnC) AC 20(24)/15/15,HP 82/82 See Invis/Darkvision Character d20+18=26 ; Tuesday October 17th, 2023 3:48:56 PM "Theron, Buddy, I'm betting it has to do with the change in leadership, right? Anyways, we'll need a couple days. I don't expect it to take too long to draw out the problem. And unless the Druids are evil, we will be helping them out. Of course I'm still going in blind, unable to understand whats being discussed. Wait, they aren't evil Druids are they? So, I'm sure one of has a spell we can cast to get a message to you if we are going to be longer than expected. Just stay safe."
Diplomacy Theron, to calm him down.... 26
Kiwina (Steve M) 131/131 HP | Current AC:22 or 26 vs AoO | HeP: 0 | Status: awake ! Swim 60' Tuesday October 17th, 2023 5:16:06 PM "I don' t know that we do need you to stay, Theron, if this path is safe for us to travel without you in both directions from this point. That end goes to Wilsden, right? So where does the other go?" Kiwina isn't trying to accuse THeron of anything, only to make sure they have a safe way back if Theron does leave.
Panzer Braun (David F) AC 29 (T17, FF25) CMD 33 HP 158/158 ) Character Sheet Tuesday October 17th, 2023 7:12:10 PM " Feel that?" Panzer asks. " That is the feeling of the wood waking up and not being happy. Theron is right, this is about to get messy. Beware the forest and everything around you from here on in." Panzer slips his knives free and holds them underhanded, curled back against his forearms.
Ayotnom Ogini Hugh C 92/92 | AC : 22; Touch 20; Flat 15 CMD 32(34 vs Trip, Grapple or Disarm) Tuesday October 17th, 2023 9:45:17 PM
Ayotnom says, "I do feel that." and he draws his rapier in preparation for trouble.
DM Dominik - Escapades in the Blackbird Forest Tuesday October 17th, 2023 10:04:00 PM
Tsak questions if just attempting to enter the town would anger the druids. Though he is pretty sure they will try despite the consequences.
Mak is not surprised by the hurdle in their path, there always is. He checks the ground for recent travelers.
Elyas is confused at the situation and questions Theron about it.
Falco is disappointed but understanding of Theron's answers. He offers to leave him some alcohol to help calm him down.
Beech asks about the druids, making sure they aren't evil. He does his best to calm Theron down.
Kiwina asks about the paths, thinking they may not need Theron to return to Cresthaven.
Panzer questions this new unusual feeling. He prepares himself for battle.
Ayotnom affirms Panzer's gut feeling and draws his weapon. --------------------------------------------- Theron does his best to answer everyone's questions. "It is true that the guild has an agreement with the druids. They provide us safe passages and we follow rules they have set out. If the druids have designated this town under their protection, then I guess something has happened in that town. Unfortunately, I do not know any details. There was no mandate over this town that I knew of, the guild tends to keep those on a need to know basis." He takes a moment. "Yes this trail will take you right to Wilsden and if you take the path the other direction, you will get back to Cresthaven. But you are right Beech, I do need to abide by agreement. I will stay here and await your return. I do not believe the druids are evil, I have never seen them do anything to harm the forest or any surrounding towns. I do not know how the druids will react and we do not have the guild to fall back on. I feel they may be accommodating to your party once they hear you out, I just do not know how you will be able to do that."
As Theron finishes, the rest of the group hears Panzer and you can all feel it. A sense of dread is carried in the wind, the shinning sun has been covered by clouds. Theron remarks, "I will find a safe zone nearby and await your word. I pray that you stay safe and find what you are looking for. May the gods be with you." He will scamper into the woods.
Tsak Rezar (Damien) AC22(22) (T15/F14) 123/123 HP| Falchion +4 2D4+3|Crossbow1 1D8+1 Status: Wednesday October 18th, 2023 12:47:39 AM
Tsak notes Panzer and Ayotnom draw their weapons. He understands that they may be more attuned to what's happening around them but elects to keep his sword sheathed and his hands free for now.
He gives Falco a shake of the head Probably sounds weird coming from me, but I don't think more alcohol is the answer at the minute. Theron will be more use to himself and to us in a sober state. When we get thru all this I'll be the second to buy everyone a drink, right after Mak. He winks at the fighter.
Tsak is impressed with Panzers awareness and Beech's commitment to good communication. These are the kinds of things the petals have sometimes skimped on in the past, along with diplomacy, detailed planning and an exit strategy...
Mak(JamesM)(123/123)|AC:28/18T/--FF|CMD 34| Arrows/12+1 CLB|16/11/6/16(RS)/-|(FA,WF,WS,WT,DA,RS,MS,IG)**|1d8+15(MS)(20)x3)) Wednesday October 18th, 2023 9:33:15 AM
Mak held tight to his bow as the feeling crept over him and his head went on a swivel. "We should probably be moving." he warned. "Panzer, in front, Tsak, Take the rear. Let's move!"
Moving would serve two functions. Putting distance between them and Theron and get them closer to the village where it would be safer.
'Falco (RyanM) AC20 T16 F16, CMD 24, HP 87/87 Channel 7/7 (6d6) Wednesday October 18th, 2023 9:52:05 AM
Falco nods at Tsak's response and readies himself to move out. He takes a position near the back and keeps his eyes moving, trusting his sharp senses to warn them of danger.
Elyas (Ben A.) (59/92 HP | AC: 21; Touch:15; Flat: 18; CMD:15) | status: Wednesday October 18th, 2023 11:24:27 AM
Elyas sees several of his companions draw weapons
"Put your weapons away unless we are attacked. We came here peacefully, let's not look threatening. Don't want to face a group of druids and the whole living forest now do we?
He starts walking down the path towards Wilsden, hands empty and visible.
Panzer Braun (David F) AC 29 (T17, FF25) CMD 33 HP 158/158 ) Character Sheet d20+25=39 ; Wednesday October 18th, 2023 11:41:45 AM
Panzer frowns at the order to stow his weapons, but complies just long enough to replace them with defensive wands ( shield and bless weapon). He then nods at Mak and starts forward. Wanting a little more space in case of an area spell attack he moves his full 40' speed instead of a standard 30, edging a little ahead of the others. Perception 39
Beech (JohnC) AC 20(24)/15/15,HP 82/82 See Invis/Darkvision Character Wednesday October 18th, 2023 5:05:29 PM
Beech keeps his bow at hand, ready to do whatever is needed. Spells, Arrows or Communication as required.
Kiwina (Steve M) 131/131 HP | Current AC:22 or 26 vs AoO | HeP: 0 | Status: awake ! Swim 60' Wednesday October 18th, 2023 6:06:31 PM
Kiwina falls in with the group in Mak's suggested order, paying attention to his surroundings (Survival =32, perception = 30, taking 10 on both).
Kiwina (Steve M) 131/131 HP | Current AC:22 or 26 vs AoO | HeP: 0 | Status: awake ! Swim 60' Wednesday October 18th, 2023 6:08:11 PM And just so I don't have to look back two weeks to find this again, Kiwina's prepared spells are:
Ranger: 1st -- entangle, speak with animals Druid: 0th -- create water, detect magic, flare, light 1st -- obscuring mist, cure light wounds, entangle, produce flame, speak with animals, summon nature's ally I 2nd -- fog cloud, flaming sphere, hold animal, resist energy, soften earth and stone 3rd -- call lightning, meld into stone, neutralize poison, spike growth 4th -- sleet storm, control water, flame strike Aumakua have one 1st-level ranger spell Storm burst -- none used
Ayotnom Ogini Hugh C 92/92 | AC : 22; Touch 20; Flat 15 CMD 32(34 vs Trip, Grapple or Disarm) Wednesday October 18th, 2023 8:47:20 PM
Ayotnom says, "My rapier is my arcane bonded item. If I need to cast a spell I need to be holding it. I will sheathe it once we reach the town and have assurances that the druids and any forces they can bring to bear are not a threat to us and not a moment before."
DM Dominik - Escapades in the Blackbird Forest d20+13=27 ; d20+13=18 ; d20+14=15 ; 2d6+7=18 ; d20+13=14 ; d20+13=31 ; d20+14=33 ; 2d6+7=13 ; 2d6+7=16 ; Wednesday October 18th, 2023 9:05:32 PM
Tsak suggests that alcohol may not be the best option, sober minds will be needed. He appreciates the qualities that the new members have brought to the team.
Mak gives the marching order to the Petals, getting the group moving.
Falco takes his position and keeping a keen eye out for danger.
Elyas tells the group to sheath their weapons, they are should exuded peace and avoid a fight, if possible.
Panzer complies with the order to stow his weapon, begrudgingly. He makes sure to keep enough distance between him and the rest of the group to avoid everyone being caught with a spell.
Beech is prepared for anything.
Kiwina also falls into position, using his senses to find any danger.
Ayotnom takes his place next to Falco, but refuses to sheath his rapier. --------------------------------------- The group procedes forward, the ominous feeling hangs heavy in the air. After a short while, the party notices a fog cloud about 100 yards in front of the group. As the group travels, the underbrush on both sides rises up and ambushes the party.
Party Marching order (pulled from an earlier post, added Ayotnom):
Panzer Kiwina/Mak Elyas/Beech Falco/Ayotnom Tsak
{OOC: Perception check to not be surprised, DC 35} {Knowledge: Nature to figure out what you are fighting}
Panzer is attacked (assuming flatfooted or it misses), the first attack strikes for 18 bludgeoning. His grapple attempt fails.
Kiwina is attacked, manages to avoid the attack.
Beech is attacked, manages to avoid the attack.
Falco is attacked and is hit with the attack. The creature also grapples Falco, doing a combined total of 29 bludgeoning damage.
Kiwina (Steve M) 131/131 HP | Current AC:22 or 26 vs AoO | HeP: 0 | Status: awake ! Swim 60' d20+12=26 ; d20+20=34 ; d20+14=22 ; d8+5=9 ; Wednesday October 18th, 2023 10:03:53 PM (Know Nature = 26; if you're saying to roll perception rather than using the previous post, then Perception = 34 and he's surprised)
Kiwina tries to determine what's attacking, as that will determine his best course of action.
If he is able to take action this round, then the rod he carries grows into a longspear and he makes one attack hitting AC: 22 for 9 points of damage.
Beech (JohnC) AC 20(24)/15/15,HP 82/82 See Invis/Darkvision Character d20+21=25 ; Wednesday October 18th, 2023 10:22:13 PM
Beech is surprised, He takes a step away from whatever attacked him, and towards Falco. That should put him out of range so he can cast a spell from what attacked him, and Falco is currently grabbed, so it can't take an AoO. (will cast defensively if needed) He will then cast Dimension Door, touching Falco and Ayotnom, saying "Going 50' back up the road." They both have the choice to shake off the touch. If they stay or go, the space around Beech, seems to warp and fold, and then a hood grabs those going at the navel and suddenly they appear 50' back up the road. "I hate that feeling, at least it wasn't a teleport, that feels like your be pulled through a hole 5 sizes too small."
Mak(JamesM)(123/123)|AC:28/18T/--FF|CMD 34| Arrows/12+1 CLB|16/11/6/16(RS)/-|(FA,WF,WS,WT,DA,RS,MS,IG)**|1d8+15(MS)(20)x3)) d20+18=19 ; Wednesday October 18th, 2023 10:49:58 PM
Mak was surprised as he looked around at the unexpected attack.
Tsak is surprised. As his mind races to catch up he notices Falco get grappled. If he gets an action he steps up and tries to intervene. If not he watches and tries to figure out what the heck!
Mak(JamesM)(123/123)|AC:28/18T/--FF|CMD 34| Arrows/12+1 CLB|16/11/6/16(RS)/-|(FA,WF,WS,WT,DA,RS,MS,IG)**|1d8+15(MS)(20)x3)) d20+18=25 ; Thursday October 19th, 2023 8:10:33 AM
Mak drew his bow and looked into the fog and trees for concealed enemies. Something must have animated these things.
OOC: Improved Precise Shot, Ignore concealment and cover unless total cover. Perception +18, Roll 25.
**Full Attack, Weapon Focus, Weapon Specialization, Weapon Training, Deadly Aim, Rapid Shot, Many Shot, Attacks ignore AC benefits and miss chances from anything less than total cover or concealment| Darkvision| Encumbrance:45 lbs| Move: 30 | DR1 (Adamantine Armor) | Condition: Feelin' Fine! | | Range: 0-85 Feet |
Elyas (Ben A.) (59/92 HP | AC: 21; Touch:15; Flat: 18; CMD:15) | status: d20+15=34 ; d20+14=22 ; Thursday October 19th, 2023 1:43:27 PM
Elyas almost is able to react fast enough (perception = 34, would have needed exactly a 20). He quickly looks over the things that are attacking the group
Know Nature = 22
Spells prepared:
cantrips: Resistance, detect magic, light, mending Level 1: 2/2X protection from evil, mage armor, 3/3X magic missile, Comprehend Languages Level 2: Darkvision, Scorching Ray, Mirror Image, Glitterdust, 2/3X see invisibility Level 3: 2X Dispel Magic, Haste, Fly, 2X Lightning Bolt Level 4: 2X summon monster IV, Dimensional Anchor, Greater Invisibility, Black tentacles, Wall of Fire Level 5: Baleful Polymorph, Summon Monster V, Teleport, Cone of Cold, Break Enchantment Level 6: 2X Chain Lightning, Summon Monster VI, Flesh to Stone Level 7: 2X Summon Monster VII, Force Cage Special: Acid Dart (10/10 remain, 1d6+6), pearl of power 1, bonded item, Quicken Rod 3/3 uses left, dimensional steps (390/390)
Active effects: On Self: Mage Armor (13 hours) darkvision (13 hours) See invisibility (130 minutes)
On Party
Summon
Panzer Braun (David F) AC 33 (T17, FF25) CMD 33 HP 158/158 ) Character Sheet d20+25=30 ; d20+20=35 ; Thursday October 19th, 2023 11:10:15 PM
Posted hours ago but forgot submit, duh Perception 30 surprised Panzer gets punched in the face by a tree limb, fist,thing but his armor absorbs some of it. He responds by tapping himself on the head with the shield wand, dropping it and drawing his off hand weapon, the frost .burst one. He then circles warily waiting for someone to tell him what just happened and what hit him. Umd 35 to use wand
Dashbard Shield 1/10 rounds used
Panzer Braun (David F) AC 33 (T17, FF25) CMD 33 HP 143/158 ) Character Sheet Thursday October 19th, 2023 11:12:05 PM
forgot to adjust hp
Ayotnom Ogini Hugh C 92/92 | AC : 22; Touch 20; Flat 15 CMD 32(34 vs Trip, Grapple or Disarm) d20+19=28 ; d20+9=23 ; Thursday October 19th, 2023 11:39:02 PM
(Perception: 28) (Knowledge:Nature - 23)
Don't know if Ayotnom can act yet or not but if he can he casts haste targeting Mak.Elyas,Beech.Falco,Tsak and himself.
DM Dominik - Escapades in the Blackbird Forest d20+13=15 ; d20+13=18 ; d20+13=28 ; d20+13=17 ; d20+18=30 ; 2d6+7=14 ; 2d6+7=16 ; d20+13=22 ; d20+13=25 ; d20+13=19 ; d20+13=19 ; 2d6+7=12 ; 2d6+7=17 ; d20+18=30 ; 2d6+7=12 ; Friday October 20th, 2023 6:49:48 AM
Kiwina attacks the creature back, attempting to thrust his spear into the creature but finds no purchase.
Beech reacts and pulls Falco and Ayotnom with him as he dimension doors away.
Mak is overwhelmed by the sudden attack on his comrades, but manages to draw their weapon.
Tsak manages to draw their weapon in the confusion but is unsure what is going on.
Elyas is caught off-guard by the sudden action.
Falco is stunned by the events that just occurred.
Ayotnom attempts to caste haste before being teleported away.
Panzer takes the hit and casts Shield before preparing for battle. -------------------------------------- Kiwina, Ayotnom and Elyas both recognize these creatures. They are Shambling mounds, which are large intelligent carnivorous plant creatures. They all recall that you need to avoid electricity, as they seem to feed upon it. Kiwina remembers something about fire, but can't recall how effective it is against these creatures.
Mak sees nothing moving in the forest.
Battfield:
Panzer - SM
(15 feet)
SM - Kiwina Mak - SM SM - Elyas
Tsak
(40 Feet)
Ayotnom Beech Falco
------------------------------------ The creatures attack again:
Panzer is missed by both attempts of the creature.
Kiwina is hit by the creature once and is grappled. {30 bludgeoning damage}
Mak is missed by both attempts.
Elyas is hit by the creature twice and is grappled. {41 bludgeoning damage) ------------------------------------ Mak, Elyas, Beech, Falco, Tsak and Ayotnom are hasted. Panzer has Shield.
Mak(JamesM)(123/123)|AC:29/19T/--FF|CMD 35| Arrows/12+1 CLB|18/13/8/18(RS)/18(H)|(FA,WF,WS,WT,PBS,DA,RS,H,MS,IG)**|1d8+16(MS)(20)x3) d20+18=21 ; d20+18=20 ; d20+18=31 ; d20+13=22 ; d20+8=19 ; d8+16=17 ; d8+16=18 ; d8+16=18 ; d8+16=23 ; d8+16=19 ; d8+16=24 ; Friday October 20th, 2023 8:47:31 AM
Mak targeted the mound on Kiwina and fired the first five arrows.
OOC: Mak - Shambling Mound, Roll 21(Manyshot), 20(Rapid Shot), 31(Haste), 22, 19: Damage 17+18=35(Manyshot), 18(Rapid Shot), 23(Haste), 19, and 24.
Check those dice rolls out. 3, 2, 11, 4, and 11. Don't you love the Wold die roller. Good news, I think that 11 is my best roll in two months. Makes you think I'm rolling d12's instead of 20's.
Panzer Braun (David F) AC 33 (T17, FF25) CMD 33 HP 143/158 ) Character Sheet d20+20=40 ; Friday October 20th, 2023 1:12:44 PM
Panzer taps the knife in his hand with the other wand( Bless weapon ) and then drops that wand and draws a Cold Iron Kukri instead of his Shocking burst Kukri. He steps 5 feet back towards the group and weathers the attacks from the mound in front of him. UMD 40
Dash board Shield 2/10 rounds used Bless Weapon 1/10 rounds used on Frost burst Kukri (main Hand)
Kiwina (Steve M) 101/131 HP | Current AC:22 or 26 vs AoO | HeP: 0 | Status: awake ! Swim 60' d20+13=32 ; Friday October 20th, 2023 2:59:51 PM
Kiwina certainly can't use the longspear now. . . He attempts to break the grapple, achieving a 32 vs his opponents CMD (standard action). If this frees him, he moves 5' towards Panzer to limit the directions either of them should expect an attack to come from. Since he isn't sure why his earlier attack found no purchase, he also divides his weapon into two pieces (move action) which reform into a light mace and a warhammer (free action).
IF Grappled: AC 20 or 24 vs AoO -- maybe no longer grappled
Ranger: 1st -- entangle, speak with animals Druid: 0th -- create water, detect magic, flare, light 1st -- obscuring mist, cure light wounds, entangle, produce flame, speak with animals, summon nature's ally I 2nd -- fog cloud, flaming sphere, hold animal, resist energy, soften earth and stone 3rd -- call lightning, meld into stone, neutralize poison, spike growth 4th -- sleet storm, control water, flame strike Aumakua have one 1st-level ranger spell Storm burst -- none used
Grappled: A grappled creature is restrained by a creature, trap, or effect. Grappled creatures cannot move and take a –4 penalty to Dexterity. A grappled creature takes a –2 penalty on all attack rolls and combat maneuver checks, except those made to grapple or escape a grapple. In addition, grappled creatures can take no action that requires two hands to perform. A grappled character who attempts to cast a spell or use a spell-like ability must make a concentration check (DC 10 + grappler's CMB + spell level), or lose the spell. Grappled creatures cannot make attacks of opportunity.
Beech (JohnC) AC 20(24)/15/15,HP 82/82 See Invis/Darkvision Character 10d6=33 ; Saturday October 21st, 2023 7:01:42 PM
Beech, with those close out of current danger, pulls a ball of guano from one of his pouches, and finds a spot he can hit the most shambling mounds without hitting a friend..... It takes a full round for him to prep the spell as he casts it, and as it explodes, it looks more devastating than one of his normal party favors.... "Incoming Party Favor, with some extra ...." Beech yells out, Panzer will know, the rest will quickly learn....
Empowered Fireball 33x1.5= 49 damage, Reflex save DC 19
5th level spell slot used....
Ayotnom Ogini Hugh C 92/92 | AC : 22; Touch 20; Flat 15 CMD 32(34 vs Trip, Grapple or Disarm) d20+11=30 ; 4d6=14 ; Sunday October 22nd, 2023 8:17:22 PM
Ayotnom fires a scorching ray at the nearest mound that is still shambling (30 vs AC; 14 fire damage)
Tsak takes a 5 foot step, draws his sword and attacks the grass that's attacking Elyas. He's hoping that the slashing damage of his falchion is effective in his efforts at aggressive weeding.
Elyas (Ben A.) (56/97 HP | AC: 21; Touch:15; Flat: 18; CMD:15) d20+9=13 ; d20+9=28 ; d20+9=22 ; 4d6=7 ; 4d6=19 ; 4d6=18 ; Monday October 23rd, 2023 2:59:05 PM
[ooc: I don't actually know if this will work, but I see nothing in the wording that prevents it... ability text is here: https://www.d20pfsrd.com/classes/core-classes/wizard/arcane-schools/paizo-arcane-schools/classic-arcane-schools/conjuration/]
Elyas is surprised byt he monster and is grappled! never a good place for a wizard to be. He doesn't like his odds of pulling out of the grapple normally, but then considers that the plant mound probably doesn't know much in the way of planar physics! He looks over to where his allies have dimension doored, and Steps through the mound and ends up next to the others.
[Using 60 feet of Dimensional Steps to teleport over to the other side of Beech and Falco. standard action that doens't provoke, as a Sp ability.]
He then draws his rod (move action) and prepares to fight. using the rod he casts a Scorching Ray at the closest mound
3 beams, 13 to hit touch AC for 7 fire damage 28 vs touch for 19 fire damage 22 vs touch for 18 fire damage
Spells prepared:
cantrips: Resistance, detect magic, light, mending Level 1: 2/2X protection from evil, mage armor, 3/3X magic missile, Comprehend Languages Level 2: Darkvision, Scorching Ray, Mirror Image, Glitterdust, 2/3X see invisibility Level 3: 2X Dispel Magic, Haste, Fly, 2X Lightning Bolt Level 4: 2X summon monster IV, Dimensional Anchor, Greater Invisibility, Black tentacles, Wall of Fire Level 5: Baleful Polymorph, Summon Monster V, Teleport, Cone of Cold, Break Enchantment Level 6: 2X Chain Lightning, Summon Monster VI, Flesh to Stone Level 7: 2X Summon Monster VII, Force Cage Special: Acid Dart (10/10 remain, 1d6+6), pearl of power 1, bonded item, Quicken Rod 2/3 uses left, dimensional steps (390/390)
Active effects: On Self: Mage Armor (13 hours) darkvision (13 hours) See invisibility (130 minutes)
On Party
Summon
Panzer Braun (David F) AC 33 (T17, FF25) CMD 33 HP 143/158 ) Character Sheet d20+19=21 ; d20+18=23 ; d20+14=23 ; d20+13=27 ; d20+9=10 ; d20+8=28 ; d20+8=21 ; d20+12=14 ; d3+21=24 ; d6=1 ; d3+16=18 ; d3+21=22 ; d6=2 ; d3+16=17 ; d3+16=18 ; d3+16=18 ; Monday October 23rd, 2023 6:26:53 PM
OOC since we are skipping ahead without a DM post....
IC Panzer steps to the nearest mound and says " Hello salad" Panzer full attacks Main hand 1 hits AC 21 for 24 damage and 1 cold Off hand 1 hits AC 23 for 18 damage Main hand 2 hits AC 23 for 22 damage and 2 cold Off hand 2 hits AC 27 for 17 damage Main hand 3 hits AC 10 miss Off hand 3 hits AC 28 and confirms to AC 21 for 18 damage if not a critical 36 damage if it crits Bite hits AC 14 miss
Dash board Shield 3 of 10 rounds used Bless weapon main hand 2 of 10 rounds used.
As comfortable with magic as he is, Falco is still a bit shaken by the yoink of Beech's dimension door ripping him out of the grasp of the mound. He takes a moment to settle his nerves, dismisses the idea of a flame strike and instead grasps his longbow and opens fire. He might not damage the things, but hopefully a well aimed shot will pin them in place.
DM Dominik - Escapades in the Blackbird Forest d20+7=12 ; d20+7=12 ; d20+7=22 ; d20+7=10 ; d20+13=30 ; d20+13=20 ; d20+13=20 ; d20+13=30 ; d20+18=30 ; 2d6+7=14 ; 2d6+7=14 ; d20+13=16 ; d20+13=19 ; Monday October 23rd, 2023 10:08:09 PM
Mak fires 5 arrows, striking once for 23 damage.
Panzer casts bless weapon and draws a second weapon.
Kiwina successfully breaks the grapple. He moves towards Panzer.
Beech casts a fireball. Hitting 3 of the creatures fully and 1 Partially.
Ayotnom fires a scorching ray at the nearest creature, hitting successfully.
Tsak takes his Falchion to the creature and hits 3 times, 26 total damage.
Elyas cleverly gets himself out of the grapple. He pulls out a rod and fires scorching ray, hitting all three times, the first one not really making much of an impact.
Falco fires off 3 arrows, hitting twice with one being a critical. ------------------------------ {OOC: Panzer, Kiwina, Mak, and Elyas all need to make the reflex save from Fireball} {Panzer you may keep your 2nd post for this round, you are a round ahead of everyone}
Ayotnom Beech Falco Elyas --------------------------------- The group notices that fire does not seem to be doing as much damage as you would have expected.
One of the Shambling mounds (SM4) crumbles to the ground.
The mounds strike back:
SM1 - at Panzer - Missing both attacks SM2 - at Kiwina - Hitting once and grappling for 28 Damage SM3 - at Tsak - Missing both attacks
Ayotnom Ogini Hugh C 92/92 | AC : 22; Touch 20; Flat 15 CMD 32(34 vs Trip, Grapple or Disarm) d20+16=27 ; d8+4=11 ; Monday October 23rd, 2023 10:31:13 PM
Ayotnom moves forward to ne within 30 feet of the nearest mound and uses his hand of the apprentice ability to attack.
27 vs AC; 11 damage
Beech (JohnC) AC 20(24)/15/15,HP 82/82 See Invis/Darkvision Character Monday October 23rd, 2023 10:35:28 PM
Highlight to display spoiler: { Without a map, if you are going to cause me to friends, when I should be able to place AoE's to miss them, this is going to limit me for spells, and I do a lot of AoE's.}
Beech drops the long quiver from his right hip to the ground (free action). He then casts Enlarge Person on himself. "I dropped those on purpose, that's why I have two magic quivers... That one carries Large Arrows. One of mom's friends carried Huge Arrows, he was a Minotaur and used to pull the same trick. Actually, that's who gave me the idea...."
Spells in effect: Haste Enlarge Person (extended by Bloodline)
Panzer Braun (David F) AC 33 (T17, FF25) CMD 33 HP 119/158 ) Character Sheet d20+11=24 ; Monday October 23rd, 2023 11:17:28 PM
Reflex save 24, Panzer dodges the worst of the fireball 24 damage taken
Mak(JamesM)(123/123)|AC:29/19T/--FF|CMD 35| Arrows/7+1 CLB|18/13/8/18(RS)/18(H)|(FA,WF,WS,WT,PBS,DA,RS,H,MS,IG)**|1d8+16(MS)(20)x3)) d20+14=26 ; d20+18=23 ; d20+18=32 ; d20+18=25 ; d20+13=15 ; d20+8=14 ; d6+16=22 ; d6+16=21 ; d6+16=17 ; d6+16=18 ; Tuesday October 24th, 2023 8:08:09 AM
OOC: I'm confused. What fireball? Reflex Save 26. Where is everyone?
Mak took a five foot step back and fired his bow once more, Again 5 arrows flew from his bow.
Elyas (Ben A.) (56/97 HP | AC: 21; Touch:15; Flat: 18; CMD:15) d20+11=21 ; 5d4+5=17 ; Tuesday October 24th, 2023 10:06:35 AM
[OOC: took the reflex save for the fireball, 21 for half damage. but without a map and on PbP, the fireball is going to hit the whole party? even though in the same round of combat i teleported out of the area? it would be nice to either have a map or have some GM flexibility if we're doing this 'theater of the mind' style for an encounter.]
Elyas fires off another quickened spell. Seeing that fire isn't doing a ton, he switches to a magic missile. 17 force damage to #3
Then he starts a summoning spell
Spells prepared:
cantrips: Resistance, detect magic, light, mending Level 1: 2/2X protection from evil, mage armor, 2/3X magic missile, Comprehend Languages Level 2: Darkvision, Scorching Ray, Mirror Image, Glitterdust, 2/3X see invisibility Level 3: 2X Dispel Magic, Haste, Fly, 2X Lightning Bolt Level 4: 2X summon monster IV, Dimensional Anchor, Greater Invisibility, Black tentacles, Wall of Fire Level 5: Baleful Polymorph, Summon Monster V, Teleport, Cone of Cold, Break Enchantment Level 6: 2X Chain Lightning, Summon Monster VI, Flesh to Stone Level 7: 1/2X Summon Monster VII, Force Cage Special: Acid Dart (10/10 remain, 1d6+6), pearl of power 1, bonded item, Quicken Rod 1/3 uses left, dimensional steps (390/390)
Active effects: On Self: Mage Armor (13 hours) darkvision (13 hours) See invisibility (130 minutes)
On Party
Summon
Panzer Braun (David F) AC 33 (T17, FF25) CMD 33 HP 119/158 ) Character Sheet d20+19=26 ; d20+18=28 ; d20+14=27 ; d20+13=21 ; d20+9=21 ; d20+8=15 ; d20+12=13 ; d3+21=24 ; d6=6 ; d3+16=19 ; d3+21=24 ; d6=6 ; d3+16=18 ; d3+21=23 ; d6=3 ; Tuesday October 24th, 2023 6:01:13 PM " BEEEECH!!! Shambling Mounds are BIG and I am SMALL. Is the difference not OBVIOUS!?" Panzer howls at his companion as his eyebrows and a fair amount of the rest of his hide smoulders from the Fireball. " Be careful, there are impressionable friendlies here !" Panzer then twirls his blades once and lays into SM1 Main hand 1 Hits AC 26 for 24 damage + 5 cold damage (Adamantine and magic) Offhand 1 Hits AC 28 for 19 damage (Cold Iron) Main hand 2 Hits AC 27 for 24 damage +6 cold damage (Adamantine and magic) Offhand 2 Hits AC 21 for 18 damage (Cold Iron) Main hand 3 Hits AC 21 for 23 damage +3 cold damage (Adamantine and magic) Offhand 3 Miss Bite Miss If SM1 dies Panzer steps toward SM2 and says " Get behind me and use me as a shield Kiwina, they seem to have trouble hitting me, unlike Beech."
Dashboard Shield 3/10 rounds used Bless Weapon 2 of 10 rounds used
Ayotnom Ogini Hugh C 92/92 | AC : 22; Touch 20; Flat 15 CMD 32(34 vs Trip, Grapple or Disarm) Tuesday October 24th, 2023 8:31:47 PM
(OOC: Checking In) Time slows down for Ayotnom as he waits to see if his rapier will connect and then return to his hand.
(OOC: will probably make the same action tomorrow)
DM Dominik - Escapades in the Blackbird Forest Tuesday October 24th, 2023 8:32:04 PM
Ayotnom steps up and strikes at the closest Shambling mounds.
Beech enlarges himself and prepares a large arrow.
Mak fires off 5 more arrows, hitting on 3 of them.
Elyas fires off a set of Magic missiles.
Panzer lashes out at the nearest shambling mounds.
Falco, Kiwina, and Tsak all act defensively. ----------------------------------------------------------- SM1: 39 + 29 + 19 = 87 SM2: 23 + 39 = 62 + 43 = 105 SM3: 14 + 9 + 8 = 31 + 11 + 17 +18 + 30 = 107 SM4: Dead ---------------------------------------------------- The remaining 3 Shambling mounds all slump to the ground.
As the final creature crumbles, you hear several loud caws and notice crows are perched on several trees in your area.
Beech (JohnC) AC 20(24)/15/15,HP 82/82 See Invis/Darkvision Character d20+21=31 ; Tuesday October 24th, 2023 9:14:13 PM
Beech picks up the quiver and reattaches to his belt. and looks carefully at the crows..... Well Panzer, I just thought you were the Parrot in that holiday joke mom tells every year.... Oh and we got watchers, can't say they are looking like those from The Culverwood though."
Beech looks carefully to see if there is any shadowy stuff attached to the crows. If and only if he can verify they are touched by shadow, he'll just keep watching them...
Perception 31
Spells in effect Haste Enlarge Person
Kiwina (Steve M) 101/131 HP | Current AC:22 or 26 vs AoO | HeP: 0 | Status: awake ! Swim 60' d20+12=28 ; d20+12=32 ; Tuesday October 24th, 2023 11:41:30 PM
Reflex save vs fireball = 28 (ignore the second save)
Kiwina casts speak with animals and asks the crows if they can help him find the local druids.
Falco: Damien subbing for Ryan Tsak Rezar (Damien) AC22(22) (T15/F14) 123/123 HP| Falchion +4 2D4+3|Crossbow1 1D8+1 Status: Hastened 5d6=26 ; Wednesday October 25th, 2023 4:42:32 AM
(Channel Energy/Heal=26)
Falco puts his bow away and dusts himself off. Gather round people, bring me your sick, your afflicted, your scorched (raised eyebrow at Beech) and your wounded.
When the group is close enough together, trusting the archers to keep an eye on the crows, he channels energy to heal for 26.
Tsak Rezar (Damien) AC22(22) (T15/F14) 123/123 HP| Falchion +4 2D4+3|Crossbow1 1D8+1 Status: Hastened Wednesday October 25th, 2023 4:44:24 AM
Tsak doesn't put his sword away yet. He waits to see if Kiwina is away with the birds or able to get them to sing.
Elyas (Ben A.) (82/97 HP | AC: 21; Touch:15; Flat: 18; CMD:15) Wednesday October 25th, 2023 3:02:33 PM
Elyas warily walks back to the rest of the group, watching to see if any of the mounds keep fighting
"Well that was a surprise. think the druids are behind this? seems like something they might do
Beech (JohnC) AC 20(24)/15/15,HP 82/82 See Invis/Darkvision Character Wednesday October 25th, 2023 5:24:37 PM
Beech, points upwards, gives Panzer a look that obviously says, maybe here too.... "If what was effecting the Culverwood is Wold wide, we may be in trouble. The bad guys, or bad essence at least, was using Ravens and crows as watchers for it's actions. I was under the impression it was just the Culverwood that was being effected, it may be effecting every sentient area of land. Some dark power was spreading it's grasp, so much so that the friendly Dryads, retreated into their trees and went dormant to protect themselves. We hadn't found out much, but the two of us left, as we differed in a solution too much with our old group. They dilly dallied in coming to a decision for action and it would be left to making a plan and just hoping... If this is the same here, we may have trouble finding the Druids, if they have retreated to protect themselves."
Panzer Braun (David F) AC 33 (T17, FF25) CMD 33 HP 145/158 ) Character Sheet d20+19=29 ; d20+19=32 ; d20+19=29 ; d20+19=38 ; d20+19=27 ; d20+19=39 ; d20+19=39 ; d3+21=22 ; d3+21=22 ; d3+21=22 ; d3+21=23 ; d3+21=24 ; d3+21=24 ; d3+21=24 ; d6=4 ; d6=1 ; d6=1 ; d6=2 ; d10=3 ; d6=1 ; d10=4 ; Wednesday October 25th, 2023 6:07:24 PM " Shadow touched or not this is WAY too much like back in the Culverwood. Heads on a swivel guys, don't think the fat lady is ready to take the stage yet." Panzer steps next to Falco and readies to step in front of and/or kill anything that comes for their healer. (combat reflexes leading to up to 5 AoO if something else kicks off) AC 29 for 22 adamantie + 4 cold damage AC 32 for 22 adamantine +1 cold damage AC 29 for 22 adamantine +1 cold damage AC 38 Crit for 47 adamantine + 5 frost damage AC 39 Crit for 48 adamantine + 5 frost damage
Dashboard Shield 4/10 rounds used Bless Weapon 3/10 rounds used
DM Mark - DM Switch! Wednesday October 25th, 2023 9:32:37 PM
As the last of the ambulatory plants slump to the ground, the party takes stock of their situation.
Beech retrieves his quiver, as he looks up at the crows. He looks at them carefully, and they look like crows. They are indeed watching. Beech wonders aloud of what happened the Culverwood may be happening here, and relates a bit of that. Panzer agrees this is much like their experience in the Culverwood and warns all to keep a sharp eye out.
Tsak stays wary, his sword out. He watches the crows.
Falco calls his friends close to heal them and releases a burst of healing energy.
Elyas wonders if the druids were behind the attack.
Kiwina casts Speak with Animals, asking the crows if they can help him find the local druids. The birds look at the centaur as he caws at them, though it’s not clear if they are responding to him or just to each other.”
”It talks like us, but it can’t fly.” “Not sure who you’re looking for.” “Not safe here, not safe.” “We’re safe up here.” “No, they can hurt us. Wait ‘til they leave.” “They made fire. It may burn the trees.” "Foolish humans." “None died. Can we eat that plant?” “They go to the town, but we cannot go there.” “To the town. Maybe they will die there and we can eat them.” “Others may come. Friends. Maybe then we can eat them.” “We should search for other food.”
Knowledge Nature DC 14: Highlight to display spoiler: {It is not unusual for crows to be drawn to the sounds of battle, as battle usually means food to such carrion eaters.}
Sense Motive DC 26: Highlight to display spoiler: {Trying to intuit the thoughts of animals is difficult, but nothing about these crows suggests any watching or behavior different from an animal that anticipates a possible meal or reward.}
Regarding the forest, you now notice that the fireballs have indeed started a few fires. Looking around, you see about six locations that are burning. It’s not clear if these fires will continue if left unchecked, but you don’t need to be a ranger or a druid to know an unchecked fire in a forest is usually a bad idea.
Kiwina (Steve M) 101/131 HP | Current AC:22 or 26 vs AoO | HeP: 0 | Status: awake ! Swim 60' Wednesday October 25th, 2023 9:40:21 PM
Kiwina looks at the size of the fires and how spread apart they are. If all are small, he can create water several times. If they are within a forty foot diameter space, he could maybe put then out with a sleet storm.
"Why can't you go to the town. What's there?" Kiwina asks the crows.
Ayotnom Ogini Hugh C 92/92 | AC : 22; Touch 20; Flat 15 CMD 32(34 vs Trip, Grapple or Disarm) d20+9=16 ; d20+18=32 ; Wednesday October 25th, 2023 10:42:03 PM
Ayotnom says, "The crows appear to be acting as you'd expect them to. Carrion eaters drawn to the sound of our battle. Perhaps if you offered them a bit of food as a reward Kiwina they'd be more helpful."
Tsak Rezar (Damien) AC22(22) (T15/F14) 123/123 HP| Falchion +4 2D4+3|Crossbow1 1D8+1 Status: Hastened Thursday October 26th, 2023 3:36:10 AM
Ok, Kiwina seems to be getting somewhere, that's good.
Then Tsak notices the spot fires that have sprung up, 'not so good' he thinks.
Watch my back he says to Mak before heading to the nearest fire to put it out. Between tamping the flames and using a branch to clear around it to remove fuel he's pretty sure fires of this size will be manageable as long as they act quickly and the fires don't run up the trees into the crowns.
Falco: Damien subbing for Ryan Tsak Rezar (Damien) AC22(22) (T15/F14) 123/123 HP| Falchion +4 2D4+3|Crossbow1 1D8+1 Status: Hastened d20+21=23 ; Thursday October 26th, 2023 3:40:20 AM
(Perception=23)
Falco is pleasantly surprised at Panzers reaction to protect him. He looks around to see that everyone is ok. He sees the fires, and Kiwina and Ayotnom in conversation with the crows and decides that he'll act as lookout in case something else comes at them. His head on a swivel he scans the skies and the clear area around the group looking for trouble (perception).
Panzer Braun (David F) AC 33 (T17, FF25) CMD 33 HP 145/158 ) Character Sheet Thursday October 26th, 2023 11:46:21 AM
Panzer relaxes, a little. He continues to stand guard.
Beech (JohnC) AC 20(24)/15/15,HP 82/82 See Invis/Darkvision Character d20+21=26 ; Thursday October 26th, 2023 12:04:59 PM
Beech, having determined that the Crows are not a threat, looks around, seeing if the fires that his fireball started are now under control. If not, the most out of control area, he'll call out, "Stand Clear, it's gonna get cold and storm over there." Giving the time for anyone close to clear out and will drop a Ice Storm to take care of the fire.... If the fires are under control, he'll also keep watch....
Perception 26
Ayotnom Ogini Hugh C 92/92 | AC : 22; Touch 20; Flat 15 CMD 32(34 vs Trip, Grapple or Disarm) Thursday October 26th, 2023 8:50:10 PM
Ayotnom goes to smother the nearest fire while waiting for Kiwina to respond to his suggestion (OOC: checking in)
DM Mark - From Fire to Ice Thursday October 26th, 2023 9:25:46 PM
Kiwina’s looks around at the fires left behind by the fireballs. There is one nearby, and he casts Create Water on it, which looks like it will be effective. He responds to the crows, asking them why they cannot go to town, and what is there. A couple look at the centaur.
”The town has gone bad.” “Humans warned us not to go there. Said they would kill us if we did.” “The town is bad now.” “We went, they didn’t kill us.” “Stupid humans.”
Ayotnym says these crows seem fairly typical for their kind, and suggest offering them some food. He moves to smother a nearby fire.
Tsak moves to another fire. He is able to stamp it out. He tries to clear the area around it and manages to get any unburnt wood pulled back.
Falco can see the fires, but keeps a sharp lookout for more trouble. Panzer also looks around as he stands guard.
Beech sees the fires. He conjures up an ice storm 40’ wide and 40’ tall, catching most of the remaining fires and reaching up into the trees. Great hailstones rain down, causing a good deal of noise. Snow and sleet begins to fall in the area, obscuring any sight through it.
At this point the crows seem to have had enough.
”AAAAK” “See, I told you they could kill us.” “That’s it - I’m outta here.” “Me too.” “Yeah, I’m not waiting to get hit with the next one.” “Looks like winter came early.”
They all take off and fly away.
It’s not difficult to make sure any remaining fires outside the Ice Storm are put out. Snow and sleet continue to fall, much quieter now than the initial hailstorm. Wisps of smoke lingers in the area.
Tsak Rezar (Damien) AC22(22) (T15/F14) 123/123 HP| Falchion +4 2D4+3|Crossbow1 1D8+1 Status: Friday October 27th, 2023 1:25:43 AM
Tsak walks back to the group skirting the mayhem and destruction and stands next to Mak as they watch the crows disappear into the distance. That went well bloke, I think we're really getting the hang of this diplomacy stuff.
To the group as a whole Onward to town? Seems like the best bet to find out what's going on around here.
Falco; Damien subbing for RyanTsak Rezar (Damien) AC22(22) (T15/F14) 123/123 HP| Falchion +4 2D4+3|Crossbow1 1D8+1 Status: Friday October 27th, 2023 1:28:00 AM
Falco looks to Kiwina What did they say about the town? Anything specific?
Beech (JohnC) AC 20(24)/15/15,HP 82/82 See Invis/Darkvision Character d20+21=26 ; Friday October 27th, 2023 8:42:46 AM
Beech, watches the Crows fly off and relaxes quite a bit, but this is a "Wood" until the group leaves it behind, he's on edge, even if only Panzer agrees with him.
Perception 26
Mak(JamesM)(123/123)|AC:29/19T/--FF|CMD 35| Arrows/7+1 CLB|18/13/8/18(RS)/18(H)|(FA,WF,WS,WT,PBS,DA,RS,H,MS,IG)**|1d8+16(MS)(20)x3)) Friday October 27th, 2023 8:42:52 AM
Mak didn't understand the conversation happening around him with the crows, so he randomly targeted the birds and waited for the command to fire.
Panzer Braun (David F) AC 33 (T17, FF25) CMD 33 HP 145/158 ) Character Sheet d20+25=29 ; Friday October 27th, 2023 8:46:24 AM
Perception 29 Panzer is more relaxed now that the crows are gone. He forms up in the lead, weapons out and prepared for trouble. He also picks up his wands.
Panzer Braun (David F) AC 33 (T17, FF25) CMD 33 HP 145/158 ) Character Sheet d20+25=29 ; Friday October 27th, 2023 8:46:24 AM
Perception 29 Panzer is more relaxed now that the crows are gone. He forms up in the lead, weapons out and prepared for trouble. He also picks up his wands.
Elyas (Ben A.) (82/97 HP | AC: 21; Touch:15; Flat: 18; CMD:15) Friday October 27th, 2023 8:59:34 AM
Elyas watches the conversation with the crows with interest but doesn't have any spells to help him understand.
"I suppose we continue onward to the town. if these mounds were the welcoming party it might get a lot more hectic in there. but I don't think we can choose to just not go in at this point."
Mak(JamesM)(123/123)|AC:29/19T/--FF|CMD 35| Arrows/20+1 CLB|18/13/8/18(RS)/18(H)|(FA,WF,WS,WT,PBS,DA,RS,H,MS,IG)**|1d8+16(MS)(20)x3) Friday October 27th, 2023 3:15:54 PM
Mak pulled two bundles of arrows out of his sack and refilled his quiver. He'd actually let it get down to 2 arrows. Fortunately he hadn't needed more.
Kiwina (Steve M) 101/131 HP | Current AC:22 or 26 vs AoO | HeP: 0 | Status: awake ! Swim 60' Friday October 27th, 2023 5:21:29 PM
Kiwina repeats what the crows said.
DM Mark - Wilsden Saturday October 28th, 2023 2:37:22 AM
Tsak watches the crows flee the magical attacks on the forest. He suggests proceeding to the town. Beech watches them leave and is relieved. Panzer gathers up his things and prepares to go. Elyas is ready to go to town. He worries that if these shambling mounds were the welcoming party, worse things may await them in the town they seek.
Mak is not sure what the crows are doing so he takes aim at them. He later makes sure his arrow supply is replenished.
Falco asks Kiwina what the crows said, and Kiwina will translate what they said as he watches them leave.
Soon, Beech’s Ice Storm comes to an end. Now that the snow and sleet no longer obscures teh area, you can see that between the fireballs and the pummeling from the Ice Storm, the Petals have pretty much destroyed a few large areas of the forest. It’s probably a good thing you don’t have any druids in your party. :)
Continuing on, the road goes for a while before the trees begin to thin.
As things open up, you see a quaint village nestled amidst a picturesque landscape, surrounded by trees and rolling hills and tranquil meadows. There are a handful of cottages and a central meeting square. The cottages are charming and rustic, with thatched roofs and colorful flower boxes adorning their windows. Cobblestone pathways wind between the stone and wood cottages and low buildings. Here and there you see smoke curling from chimneys, including a large, low building off the central square. You can see a few townsfolk here and there, though you’re still a ways away. A medium sized dog looks in your direction, but does not bark.
Mak(JamesM)(123/123)|AC:29/19T/--FF|CMD 35| Arrows/20+1 CLB|18/13/8/18(RS)/18(H)|(FA,WF,WS,WT,PBS,DA,RS,H,MS,IG)**|1d8+16(MS)(20)x3) Saturday October 28th, 2023 11:55:12 AM
“I’ve got a bad feeling about this.” Mak said
Falco; Damien subbing for RyanTsak Rezar (Damien) AC22(22) (T15/F14) 123/123 HP| Falchion +4 2D4+3|Crossbow1 1D8+1 Status: Sunday October 29th, 2023 12:37:56 AM
Falco shares Mak's assessment, but can't smile because, beak. He gives a soft hoot which tries to say "I'm with you brother". The medium sized dog looks quite big from Falco's perspective. He tries to make sure there's someone between him and it. Doberman fangs or Labradore breath, neither appeals to him right now.
Tsak Rezar (Damien) AC22(22) (T15/F14) 123/123 HP| Falchion +4 2D4+3|Crossbow1 1D8+1 Status: Sunday October 29th, 2023 12:40:05 AM
Tsak sizes up the town as they approach.
Lovely place. Shall we just go stand in the middle and see who attacks us first?
The comment is light-hearted, but considering what they just did to the forest probably quite realistic.
Ayotnom Ogini Hugh C 92/92 | AC : 22; Touch 20; Flat 15 CMD 32(34 vs Trip, Grapple or Disarm) d20+19=23 ; d20+18=34 ; Sunday October 29th, 2023 11:20:12 PM
Ayotnom surveys the village looking for any sign of light and if his sharp minotaur senses detect anything he tries to get an idea of their motives.
(Perception: 23) (Sense Motive: 34)
Kiwina (Steve M) 101/131 HP | Current AC:22 or 26 vs AoO | HeP: 0 | Status: awake ! Swim 60' Sunday October 29th, 2023 11:37:52 PM "Good idea, Tsak. We can make our presence known so they'll see we aren't skulking about trying to get the drop on anyone. Seriously, we don't need to say we're looking for Achtoom." Kiwina isn't sure their new companions will hear the name right, but any magical effect is what it is.
'Falco (RyanM) AC20 T16 F16, CMD 24, HP 87/87 Channel 7/7 (6d6) Monday October 30th, 2023 10:17:35 AM
Falco blinks in surprise at the town and laughs at Tsak's comment. "Lets just make sure we don't get stuck in a small building again when they do attack. Kiwina, saying we are looking for Achtoom seems the simplest approach, your right."
Elyas (Ben A.) (82/97 HP | AC: 21; Touch:15; Flat: 18; CMD:15) Monday October 30th, 2023 11:36:52 AM
Elyas agrees. best way to go would be to make themselves known in a peaceful manner and try to learn more about what the druids mean by protecting this town. it looks calm, but that doesn't mean it is...
I agree Falco, let's stick to the open for now
Mak(JamesM)(123/123)|AC:29/19T/--FF|CMD 35| Arrows/20+1 CLB|18/13/8/18(RS)/18(H)|(FA,WF,WS,WT,PBS,DA,RS,H,MS,IG)**|1d8+16(MS)(20)x3) Monday October 30th, 2023 12:27:02 PM "Plenty of these houses have fires in the chimney. Either someone is home of lurking within." Mak said as he accepted Tsak's challenge and started moving into an open spot in the village. As he did so he slung his bow over his shoulder and loosened his sword in it's scabbard. "Knocking on a door might be all we need to do, but let's give them a chance to come out on their own first."
Panzer Braun (David F) AC 33 (T17, FF25) CMD 33 HP 145/158 ) Character Sheet Monday October 30th, 2023 7:03:38 PM
Panzer can't help but laugh at Tsak's idea, he was thinking much the same himself. He too will start towards the center of town to await the curious or murderous citizens.
Ayotnom Ogini Hugh C 92/92 | AC : 22; Touch 20; Flat 15 CMD 32(34 vs Trip, Grapple or Disarm) Monday October 30th, 2023 10:41:41 PM
Ayotnom says, "anyone got a bell? I feel like we should be ringing one in the center of town." (OOC checking in)
DM Mark - Wilsden Monday October 30th, 2023 11:05:19 PM
The Petals cautiously approach the town before them.
Falco is a bit apprehensive about the dog. Mak notes that smoke from some of the chimneys suggests habitation. Ayotnom looks at the folks he can see, and they seems odd. The dog watches them briefly and then trots off into the woods.
There seems to be a general consensus to go to the center of town to see what might attack.
As the heroes move to the town square, they witness scenes that deepen their sense of unease. A girl is playing with stuffed toys and speaking to them as they are arranged in a perfect circle, but not even looking up at the party passes. A couple sit on a bench in the front of a cottage, muttering something that the party can’t hear from where they are - but they don’t acknowledge or seem to even notice the party. A hunting party moves from the woods into town, carrying a deer on a pole, but paying no heed to the party.
You can see that the large building on the square seems to be a tavern.
Ayotnom, and anyone else Sense Motive DC 23:Highlight to display spoiler: { The villagers here all exhibit strange behavior. They move about in an eerie manner, their actions devoid of life and vitality. Their gaze seems fixed straight ahead, and they will rarely look at the party. The party notices an unsettling absence of any display of joy, sorrow, or any discernible emotions on their faces. Even the domestic animals in the village seem affected, moving with a mechanical precision that is unnatural.}
DM Mark - Message to JohnC Monday October 30th, 2023 11:10:42 PM
John - when I send emails to jowie@roadrunner.com I get an error message that says the address is not found. Can you please let me know your correct email address?
As they enter Tsak looks at the people, strangeness exuding from them and emanating thru the whole scene. He's reminded of the necromancer in Dirt City.
Do druids do the mind control thing? Eyes open people, these folks are all on automatic pilot, something or someone else is in control here. Do we check out the tavern?
'Falco (RyanM) AC20 T16 F16, CMD 24, HP 87/87 Channel 7/7 (6d6) d20+13=17 ; d10=10 ; Tuesday October 31st, 2023 10:48:00 AM
{Sense Motive: 17}
Falco is unsure what is going on but nods at Tsak. "Noit anything I had head of for druids but who knows. I guess the tavern is a good place to start though I don't like the idea of all being inside a building if things go south."
Elyas (Ben A.) (82/97 HP | AC: 21; Touch:15; Flat: 18; CMD:15) d20+14=34 ; d20+17=36 ; Tuesday October 31st, 2023 11:09:41 AM
Before entering the town fully, Elyas will refresh his casting of 'See Invisibility' so he can watch for anything that is observing them from the supposed safety of invisibility.
Elyas watches the people as they enter the village and sees that they are acting quite strangely. Sense Motive = 34, success!
"I think somehting might be controlling them he says with disgust "see how they just stare straight ahead? there's no emotion displayed, no focus on anything in particular. it's almost mechanical. like the whole town is under a compulsion spell perhaps?
He tries to think what kind of spell could affect such a large group of people and to recall what he can about how to deal with such an enchantment. Knowledge Arcana = 36
If this is the 'protection' that the druids are giving this town, we have to end it. this is wrong.
Spells prepared:
cantrips: Resistance, detect magic, light, mending Level 1: 2/2X protection from evil, mage armor, 2/3X magic missile, Comprehend Languages Level 2: Darkvision, Scorching Ray, Mirror Image, Glitterdust, 1/3X see invisibility Level 3: 2X Dispel Magic, Haste, Fly, 2X Lightning Bolt Level 4: 2X summon monster IV, Dimensional Anchor, Greater Invisibility, Black tentacles, Wall of Fire Level 5: Baleful Polymorph, Summon Monster V, Teleport, Cone of Cold, Break Enchantment Level 6: 2X Chain Lightning, Summon Monster VI, Flesh to Stone Level 7: 1/2X Summon Monster VII, Force Cage Special: Acid Dart (10/10 remain, 1d6+6), pearl of power 1, bonded item, Quicken Rod 1/3 uses left, dimensional steps (390/390)
Active effects: On Self: Mage Armor (13 hours) darkvision (13 hours) See invisibility (130 minutes)
On Party
Summon
Beech (JohnC) AC 20(24)/15/15,HP 82/82 See Invis/Darkvision Character Tuesday October 31st, 2023 3:07:16 PM
Beech thinks about the spells a few moments, "You did say we came here following someone powerful, and if it's a caster, I see no reason a spell like that would be beyond his or her ability. Mom taught me that playing with someone's mind was something I'd never want to do for any length of time, but maybe suggestion or something like that. I'm certain there are other ways, maybe some sort of drug added with an even simpler spell of some type. The easiest way to test, a very simple spell, but it's not one I know..." Beech, will keep his bow handy...
Highlight to display spoiler: { my email got spoofed a couple weeks ago, informed the PTB, and thought I mentioned it on this board too... My new Email is jowie069@roadrunner.com}
Kiwina (Steve M) 101/131 HP | Current AC:22 or 26 vs AoO | HeP: 0 | Status: awake ! Swim 60' d20+13=21 ; Tuesday October 31st, 2023 4:55:27 PM
(Sense motive = 21)
Kiwina gets a strange feeling as they are being ignored, as if maybe these "people" are . . . He stops walking forward. "Did we mention the guy we're looking for is a necromancer?" he asks quietly. Looking at the nearest of the townsfolk, he tries to identify whether they are actually breathing, blinking, or otherwise showing the little signs of life.
Kiwina (Steve M) 101/131 HP | Current AC:22 or 26 vs AoO | HeP: 0 | Status: awake ! Swim 60' d20+21=35 ; Tuesday October 31st, 2023 4:56:07 PM
Perception = 35 for the last post.
Panzer Braun (David F) AC 33 (T17, FF25) CMD 33 HP 145/158 ) Character Sheet d8+1=2 ; d8+1=3 ; d8+1=4 ; d8+1=9 ; d20+25=38 ; d20+3=8 ; Tuesday October 31st, 2023 7:01:52 PM
At the thought of going indoors Panzer pulls out a wand a tops off his hit points. Fireball was easily the fastest way to pacify a room full of hostiles, but dodging it was important to Panzer. " Anyone know that spell that protects your mind from influence?" Panzer then stands in front of some folks as they walk around town, just to see what they do. Perception 38 Sense Motive 8
Ayotnom Ogini Hugh C 92/92 | AC : 22; Touch 20; Flat 15 CMD 32(34 vs Trip, Grapple or Disarm) Tuesday October 31st, 2023 11:15:15 PM
Ayotnom says, "I concur with the people being drone-like and devoid of emotion. As for chasing a powerful caster what first we had to deal with a powerful necromancer, now we have to match wits with some sort of masterful enchanter or enchantress? Will we have to run the gambit of school masteries before we are done with this? I wonder who is next an evoker, illusionist, or diviner perhaps?"
DM Mark - People Are Strange When You're A Stranger Tuesday October 31st, 2023 11:48:34 PM
Tsak wonders if druids could be causing the problems in this town. He considers going to the tavern, but isn’t so sure about being inside a building here.
Elyas makes sure he has cast See Invisibility before entering the town. As he enters, he tells his friends, ”"I think something might be controlling them. See how they just stare straight ahead? there's no emotion displayed, no focus on anything in particular. it's almost mechanical. like the whole town is under a compulsion spell perhaps?” He wonders about the druids' role in this. As he tries to think of what might cause this, he’s not familiar with any magics that might cause this. Can you have a mass control person or maybe dominate person? He doesn’t think so. Maybe a wish?
Beech thinks there must indeed be some magic involved, or perhaps they’re drugged. He keeps his bow handy.
Kiwina worries that perhaps these folk are undead. He looks carefully. All these people do blink their eyes from time to time. He can see that the hunting party seems to be breathing a bit heavily under the load of the deer they are carrying. He sees them set their load down, talking amongst themselves. He cannot tell with the others he can see - the little girl, the couple on a bench. The little girls seems to be talking to the stuffed animals, and the couple are idly talking to each other while staring straight ahead, though he is not close enough to hear them. He sees an old woman emerge from her house to throw a pail of water out before he goes back in.
Panzer uses a wand to heal himself. He asks if anyone can protect him from mind control. He approaches the hunting party - it is two men and a woman. He hears one say and another respond in a monotone voice. “This was a good catch.” “Yeah, I was glad I spotted it. It was a good shot.” He will stand in front of one of the hunting party as the man goes into a home. The man looks dully at him for a moment as he steps around the badger.
The small town is relatively quiet. You hear an even, mechanical clanging from a blacksmith somewhere. In addition to those on the square, you hear murmured voices from the tavern, but rather quiet from what you would normally expect from a tavern.
Mak(JamesM)(123/123)|AC:29/19T/--FF|CMD 35| Arrows/20+1 CLB|18/13/8/18(RS)/18(H)|(FA,WF,WS,WT,PBS,DA,RS,H,MS,IG)**|1d8+16(MS)(20)x3) d20+10=24 ; Wednesday November 1st, 2023 8:27:53 AM "Well, this can't be good." Mak said as he examined the girl playing with the stuffed toys. "Falco, can you tell if these people are eating or have had anything to drink? Starvation or dehydration might kill them if whatever is controlling them doesn't allow those activities....You know that spell you used when we were fighting the deep that allowed some of us to break the control it had on us? Can you do that on someone here?"
OOC: Sense Motive +10, Roll 24
Elyas (Ben A.) (82/97 HP | AC: 21; Touch:15; Flat: 18; CMD:15) Wednesday November 1st, 2023 8:57:59 AM "I don't know any normal spells that could accomplish this. there are spells that allow you to control someone's actions, but not at this scale. I suppose it could be a large number of casters all using dominate on different people.... or some kind of wish spell or ritual magic. whatever it is, it is dangerous."
Elyas casts Protection from Evil on himself, then recalls the spell using his pearl of power in case he needs more uses of it. it won't last long, but the one who is able to cast protection should certainly be on his guard first.
"I can protect a few of us from mental control, but i don't have enough acstings on the day for the whole group. if anyone shows signs of acting like these people in the village I can cast on you. Or should we spend the spells on one or two townsfolk, see if it breaks them out of it? I also have a break enchantment and some dispels. Give the word Captain and I'll start experimenting
Spells prepared:
cantrips: Resistance, detect magic, light, mending Level 1: 2/2X protection from evil, mage armor, 2/3X magic missile, Comprehend Languages Level 2: Darkvision, Scorching Ray, Mirror Image, Glitterdust, 1/3X see invisibility Level 3: 2X Dispel Magic, Haste, Fly, 2X Lightning Bolt Level 4: 2X summon monster IV, Dimensional Anchor, Greater Invisibility, Black tentacles, Wall of Fire Level 5: Baleful Polymorph, Summon Monster V, Teleport, Cone of Cold, Break Enchantment Level 6: 2X Chain Lightning, Summon Monster VI, Flesh to Stone Level 7: 1/2X Summon Monster VII, Force Cage Special: Acid Dart (10/10 remain, 1d6+6), pearl of power 1, bonded item, Quicken Rod 1/3 uses left, dimensional steps (390/390)
Active effects: On Self: Mage Armor (13 hours) darkvision (13 hours) See invisibility (130 minutes) Protection from Evil (13 minutes)
On Party
Summon
Tsak Rezar (Damien) AC22(22) (T15/F14) 123/123 HP| Falchion +4 2D4+3|Crossbow1 1D8+1 Status: Wednesday November 1st, 2023 11:29:17 AM
Tsak can't help himself, he wraps his knuckles (not too hard) on Mak's head Hello. Anyone home? Then he looks to the rest of the party I think we lost one already...
Grinning at his own joke the ranger waits to see the consensus. Are we gonna visit the tavern or start experimenting with the minds of the locals? Though it seems we're already a bit late to that party.
'Falco (RyanM) AC20 T16 F16, CMD 24, HP 87/87 Channel 7/7 (6d6) d20+6=10 ; d20+13=24 ; Wednesday November 1st, 2023 11:35:20 AM
{Nature: 10 | Religion: 24}
Falco watches the movements of the people looking for what could be causing this. He doesn't know enough about nature it be help but he considers divine possibilities.
"I am not so worried about someone controlling my mind, clerics are good at resisting that sort of thing, so focus on the others." ____________________________ Channel: 6/7 (7d6)
Panzer Braun (David F) AC 33 (T17, FF25) CMD 33 HP 145/158 ) Character Sheet d20+25=30 ; Wednesday November 1st, 2023 11:44:34 AM
Panzer thinks... Some may see wisps of smoke coming from his ears.
He looks for animals in the town. Chickens, cats,birds,where did that dog go? He wants to see if the animals here can see them or react to them. The deer is out of the question, no more reactions left in that fellow. He starts looking for the dog that they saw upon entering the village. Perception 30
Beech (JohnC) AC 20(24)/15/15,HP 82/82 See Invis/Darkvision Character Wednesday November 1st, 2023 1:03:16 PM
Beech, walks up to the home that the hunters entered. "Maybe knocking will get a different reaction..." He proceeds to knock on the door, he wants to see if that makes a difference.
Mak(JamesM)(123/123)|AC:29/19T/--FF|CMD 35| Arrows/20+1 CLB|18/13/8/18(RS)/18(H)|(FA,WF,WS,WT,PBS,DA,RS,H,MS,IG)**|1d8+16(MS)(20)x3) Wednesday November 1st, 2023 1:55:15 PM "Elyas" Mak started. "Use your spell on an adult first. One of those hunters would be the best I'd think, unless we can find a holy man in town. If it's as Falco said and that type is resistant, maybe a second chance is all they'd need."
Ayotnom Ogini Hugh C 92/92 | AC : 22; Touch 20; Flat 15 CMD 32(34 vs Trip, Grapple or Disarm) Wednesday November 1st, 2023 9:42:47 PM
Ayotnom says, "Well monks, wizards and Duelists are pretty good at resisting mental effects. Fighters not so much but I'm mostly monk, wizard and duelist so I think I should be okay."
Kiwina (Steve M) 101/131 HP | Current AC:22 or 26 vs AoO | HeP: 0 | Status: awake ! Swim 60' Wednesday November 1st, 2023 10:34:41 PM "Could they be drugged?" But although he asks, Kiwina doesn't think that would explain someone stepping around Panzer.
DM Mark - People Are Strange When You're A Stranger d20=13 ; d20=19 ; Thursday November 2nd, 2023 12:13:59 AM
The Petals continue to look around and discuss what they see, but only among themselves.
Mak asks Falco if he can tell if these folks may be suffering from a lack of food or water. He suggests Falco cast a spell that might release one of these folks from any mental control. Falco ponders what he sees. These folk don’t seem lacking food or water, but they seem to be lacking something. His knowledge of religion suggests they seem to be lacking any sort of passion or drive or interest in what they are doing.
Elyas says that the ability to control this many people at once would indeed be powerful. He casts Protection from Evil on himself, offers to cast protection spells on a couple of people. At Mak’s suggestion, Elyas will also cast Protection from Evil on one of the hunters. The man seems to wince a bit, having a spell caster motioning so close, but otherwise ignores the wizard, his eyes fixed on the door where the one hunter went.
This close to a tavern without going in, Tsak knocks on Mak’s head, jokingly wondering if anyone is home.
Panzer thinks. Hard. The dog he saw before is nowhere to be seen. He sees a cat, and walks up to it. He pretty much has to move into the thing to get it to react, and it moves aside without really looking at him.
Beech knocks on the door where one of the hunters went. The other two hunters are still in the courtyard, and seem to be waiting for something. You can see the deer has been gutted but not dressed yet.
After a moment, the door opens. The hunter carries a couple of knives. He seems to ignore Beech, though he does move around the Liontaur as he rejoins the other hunters, handing them each a knife and laying out a piece of bloodstained canvass. After he wordlessly hands the knives to the others, they begin mechanically skinning the beast. "Good deer." "Yeah, good deer."
The small town remains quiet. The clanging of the blacksmith seems to have stopped. The little girl continues in a dull interaction with her inanimate playmates. The older couple continues to speak in low tones to each other, paying the party no mind. You hear murmured voices from the tavern, along with someone that begins strumming a chord repeatedly on some sort of stringed instrument.
'Falco (RyanM) AC20 T16 F16, CMD 24, HP 87/87 Channel 7/7 (6d6) Thursday November 2nd, 2023 10:06:15 AM "I know of want to just poke one of them. Not super hard but really just a poke in the ribs." He looks at the hunters, now holding knives before he walks over near the little girl, normally a walking talking owl is quite a hit with kids. He gets in her line of sight and lets out a little hoot.
Tsak finds it interesting that the cat seems to be suffering the same stupor as the rest of the town. He doesn't know exactly what it means but its interesting. Seems to cement that its some sort of effect, and probably not personal as who would bother to control a cat or a dog. Might be geographic and/or time sensitive. We need to be careful here. Something has happened and we don't know what sets it off. Lets have a quick look in this tavern - there's got to be a clue around somewhere and that seems a good place to start. This place is really creepy! He moves toward the tavern, peering thru any available windows. If he can't find any other way to look in open a door and stick his head in (Perception).
Beech (JohnC) AC 20(24)/15/15,HP 82/82 See Invis/Darkvision Character Thursday November 2nd, 2023 1:45:55 PM
An idea obviously has just hit Beech, as he stopped mid-step. "Before you open that door, plug your ears with something. I hadn't thought of this before, but something that can effect a large group by controlling only a couple, is music. I honestly don't know much about Bardic magery, I know it's arcane, but different than my own. I think that's all I know, except that really skilled Bards can play with controlling peoples emotions and fascinations of large groups, just with their performances." Beech searches his gear, and slicing a couple pieces of fat off the meat in his haversack, rolls it until soft, "Anyone got candles? if not this fat will work as ear plugs." He shivers a bit at how many spells it'll takes to get it cleaned out....
Panzer Braun (David F) AC 33 (T17, FF25) CMD 33 HP 145/158 ) Character Sheet Thursday November 2nd, 2023 5:34:16 PM " Inhaled, ingested or I guess listened to? I mean if it is affecting everyone, including the anumals then it has to be an area effect right?" Panzer wads up some cloth and plugs his ears. He then enters the tavern.
Ayotnom Ogini Hugh C 92/92 | AC : 22; Touch 20; Flat 15 CMD 32(34 vs Trip, Grapple or Disarm) Thursday November 2nd, 2023 11:08:12 PM
Ayotnom says, "Should we head to the tavern? Perhaps the stringed instrument being played their is doing some sort of magical effect? Mayhap a fey or druid troubadour?"
Kiwina (Steve M) 101/131 HP | Current AC:22 or 26 vs AoO | HeP: 0 | Status: awake ! Swim 60' Thursday November 2nd, 2023 11:16:18 PM "Is there a limit on the range of music? We can hear it from here." Kiwina nevertheless follows Panzer's advice, reflecting that he should have known from the start that they'd end up in a tavern. Being a large creature, though, he does not feel the need to go inside before he's had a chance to scout the business out. Too much chance it will be confining.
DM Mark - People Are Strange When You're A Stranger d20=1 ; d20=1 ; Friday November 3rd, 2023 12:34:17 AM
The Petals begin to move out from their apprehensive huddle.
Falco heads over to the young girl playing with her animals. As he approaches, he can see she’s maybe about 6 years old, with straight blond hair and wearing a dirty pink dress. She sits with her stuffed animals arranged in a careful circle.
She says "Let's have a tea party with all our special friends", and goes through the motions of pouring invisible tea, but Falco can see that her gestures lack the playfulness he’d expect to see from a child. Her voice is flat and emotionless, almost like she was reciting lines as if she were a mere observer rather than an active participant.
Falco walks up and hoots at the girl. She pauses and her head slowly pivots to the little owlman, though she shows no surprise at his appearance. Her eyes seem vacant as she says in a monotone, ”Oh look Teddy, we have another friend.” Then she rises and puts her hands on Falco, directing him to sit in the circle with the others. She will place a cup and saucer in front of Falco, continuing as he were one of her stuffed animals.
”There - now we have all our friends. Let’s have our tea." “It's magic tea that can make you super strong and brave. The nice man gave me tea, and now I’m giving some to you." "Oh, Teddy, would you like some more tea? It's pretend, but it tastes like chocolate" "Everybody likes tea. Everybody. And it makes you strong and brave."
She continues mechanically pouring invisible tea for all, including Falco. Falco does not smell or see any tea though, which is not surprising in a little girl’s tea party. But for Falco there’s something mildly terrifying in these simple words and gestures devoid of any joy or real intent.
A wooden sign of carved oak showing an oakleaf and an acorn hangs above the doorway to the tavern. Ayotnom suggests heading to the tavern, but Tsak is way ahead of him and pokes his head in. Beech cautions to the others to stop up their ears before entering. Panzer heeds this advice and puts in earplugs before following Tsak in. Kiwina does as well, and though he stays outside he can see most of what follows through the open door.
Entering, Tsak and Panzer see a tavern that stands in stark contrast to the lively and bustling taverns they are accustomed to. Of course, Panzer cannot hear anything in here.
The place is mainly illuminated by soft, flickering candlelight and lanterns, casting dancing shadows upon the worn wooden tables and chairs. Some candles have burned down so completely that all that remains is a pile of wax.
The patrons seated at the tables engage in quiet conversations, their voices devoid of emotion. The discussions Tsak can hear seem to focus primarily on practical matters relating to chores, gardens, etc. or mundane matters like the weather. Some people start repeating themselves.
There is a lone performer of sorts, but he does not sing and only keeps strumming the same chord - which Tsak thinks would get pretty annoying after a while.
Behind the worn wooden bar stands the tavern's bartender, a middle-aged man. He appears weary and his shoulders are slumped. His movements are slow and deliberate, lacking the vibrant energy that would typically accompany his role.
The smell of smoke is strong in this main area and the air is hazy all the way to the ceiling. Grey clouds are escaping from behind the closed door to the kitchen, hinting at a potential fire or some other source of danger. Tsak and Panzer find this rather alarming, but if there is danger, the people in here seem oblivious to it.
Elyas (Ben A.) (82/97 HP | AC: 21; Touch:15; Flat: 18; CMD:15) d20+13=31 ; Friday November 3rd, 2023 7:15:01 AM
Elyas notes that the hunter recognizes that he was casting a spell, with the closest thing to emotion he's seen so far here. But the protection from evil didn't do anything.
Next he tries casting a detect magic and observing the hunters to see if they have any magic items. If they all have one, maybe that is involved.
He then tries dispel magic. If the hunters each had an item he will try to supress that item, otherwise he casts it on the person
Dispel magic caster check = 31
Tsak Rezar (Damien) AC22(22) (T15/F14) 123/123 HP| Falchion +4 2D4+3|Crossbow1 1D8+1 Status: Friday November 3rd, 2023 9:19:38 AM
Tsak motions Panzer to stay where he is and keep a lookout. He moves over next to the kitchen door where he opens it slowly and peers inside to see whats cooking.
'Falco (RyanM) AC20 T16 F16, CMD 24, HP 87/87 Channel 7/7 (6d6) Friday November 3rd, 2023 9:54:58 AM
Falco mimes taking a sip from the tea and gives a little hoot. "Well that is excellent, I feel stronger already. Excuse me, I must catch up to my other friends."
A little shaken by the experience with the girl Falco quickly catches up with the others in the no less creepy tavern.
Beech (JohnC) AC 20(24)/15/15,HP 82/82 See Invis/Darkvision Character d20+21=22 ; Friday November 3rd, 2023 4:40:41 PM
At a loss, Beech, just remains at the ready to follow up or to protect his friends.
Perception, 22
Panzer Braun (David F) AC 33 (T17, FF25) CMD 33 HP 145/158 ) Character Sheet d20+25=44 ; Friday November 3rd, 2023 5:04:42 PM
Panzer pops the plugs from his ears as Tsak seems to have found something alarming. He keeps watch though he expects nothing surprising to happen. Perception 44
Kiwina (Steve M) 101/131 HP | Current AC:22 or 26 vs AoO | HeP: 0 | Status: awake ! Swim 60' d20+21=34 ; Friday November 3rd, 2023 11:07:16 PM
Kiwina watches while his friends investigate the tavern, but also looks for signs of trouble from outside. Just in case whatever is affecting the town is somehow alerted to their presence.
(Perception = 34)
DM Mark - FIRE! Saturday November 4th, 2023 2:13:41 AM
The Petals continue to observe, careful not to ask any questions of the people here.
Elyas is puzzled by these hunters. He casts Detect Magic, but detects nothing on them. The female hunter looks at one of her friends and in a flat voice says, ”Someone is casting a spell. I wonder what that does.” Then Elyas casts Dispel Magic on the hunter that had entered the nearby dwelling and brought out the knives. This earns the wizard a dull look from the man who then turns to the other two hunters and says, ”He’s doing it again. Like the healer.” Another responds flatly, ”Yes, like the healer. He must be here to help. Like the healer.” They continue mechanically skinning the deer.
Falco feigns a sip of the pretend tea and says, "Well that is excellent, I feel stronger already. Excuse me, I must catch up to my other friends.". As he gets up to leave, the little girl continues to look at the stuffed animals and says in her monotone, “Oh. One of our friends is leaving. At least he had some of the tea the nice man gave us, though ours is just pretend. That’s why I gave it to you - so it will make you strong and brave. Strong and brave he said. Strong and brave.”
With nothing to fight, Beech stands and watches. He sees the hunting party, the little girl Falco was with, and the old couple sitting on the bench seemingly talking to each other. The clanging of a blacksmith from somewhere begins again.
Panzer removes his earplugs and watches the dull scene.
Tsak pushes the kitchen door open to see the source of the smoke. Smoke and light steam out from the kitchen.
Holy Crap! This is bad!
Tsak coughs a bit as he peers into the smokey kitchen, smoke stinging his eyes. The kitchen is brightly lit by flames! A man in a dirty apron is standing by at a table, mechanically chopping carrots, while behind him, flames from stove top have set parts of the wall alight. The flames have crept up the wall and are licking at the ceiling. A woman lays motionless on the floor by the oven. She doesn't look wounded, but it’s hard to tell in this smoke.
Panzer’s attention is instantly drawn to the flickering flames beyond the door! Kiwina too can see these flames from where he stands at the tavern doorway.
The patrons in the tavern seem to slowly turn toward the kitchen door, but don’t seem to immediately react. One says in a dull voice. ”That looks like fire.” Another replies, ”Yes. Fire.”
Beech (JohnC) AC 20(24)/15/15,HP 82/82 See Invis/Darkvision Character d20+21=28 ; Sunday November 5th, 2023 3:27:35 PM
Hearing them call out fire, beech yells back, "Wasn't my fault, and I usually don't have to worry about stopping the fire. Can't do it!" Beech, settles the bow, because if they are going to be distracted with a fire to put, now would be the time to attack.....
Perception 28
Tsak Rezar (Damien) AC22(22) (T15/F14) 123/123 HP| Falchion +4 2D4+3|Crossbow1 1D8+1 Status: Sunday November 5th, 2023 4:50:51 PM
Tsak turns to Panzer Come get door and the guy chopping carrots, be careful he's got a knife, Kiwina find us some water and buckets, the structure is alight. At that point Tsak calms his breathing and moves in to grab the female. He rolls her on her back, gets his hands under her shoulders and drags her out of the kitchen but doesn't stop there. He drags her all the way thru the tavern and outside putting her on the ground well clear of the building. Falco, one here for you bud, can you check her out see if she's breathing or injured? At that point Tsak goes back to help with dousing the fire and/or removing the man from the kitchen.
Ayotnom Ogini Hugh C 92/92 | AC : 22; Touch 20; Flat 15 CMD 32(34 vs Trip, Grapple or Disarm) Sunday November 5th, 2023 8:21:07 PM
Ayotnom says, "We didn't start the fire. Don't know if it was always burning since the Wold's been turning though."
He looks for a well or something and if he finds it he goes over to it and fills a bucket with water and if he has time he will attempt to pour the bucket on the flames.
Kiwina (Steve M) 101/131 HP | Current AC:22 or 26 vs AoO | HeP: 0 | Status: awake ! Swim 60' Sunday November 5th, 2023 9:47:08 PM
Kiwina can only do it once, but casts sleet storm hoping it will put out the fire.
===== Ranger: 1st -- entangle, speak with animals Druid: 0th -- create water, detect magic, flare, light 1st -- obscuring mist, cure light wounds, entangle, produce flame, speak with animals, summon nature's ally I 2nd -- fog cloud, flaming sphere, hold animal, resist energy, soften earth and stone 3rd -- call lightning, meld into stone, neutralize poison, spike growth 4th -- sleet storm (used), control water, flame strike Aumakua have one 1st-level ranger spell Storm burst -- none used
DM Mark - Ready, Aim, Sleet! d20=16 ; Monday November 6th, 2023 3:44:16 AM
There’s a fire in the tavern kitchen!
Beech is quick to note that the fire was not his doing this time, but laments that he has no way to put it out.
Tsak yells to Panzer to come get the chef in the kitchen out, and for Kiwina to get some water to put out the fire. Then he drags the woman out and tells Falco he has a patient for him, before charging back in.
Ayotnom seems to have a song running through his head as he looks around for water. He spies a well in the square outside the tavern and runs over to fill a bucket and run back to the tavern.
Kiwina can see the smoke and the flames from the kitchen. He casts Sleet Storm into the kitchen. Even though he centers the spell on the back wall of the kitchen, the spell extends out in a 40’ radius, plunging most of the tavern into an icy cold whiteout!
Tsak and Panzer will need to make a DC 10 acrobatics check to move through the sleet at half speed. Failure by 5 or more means he falls on the ice.
Tsak, Panzer and Kiwian can hear some voices in the obscured areas of the tavern. They sound a bit confused, but do not sound alarmed at the sudden appearance of the Sleet Storm.
”Huh. Must be we’re in for a cold spell.” “It’s cold alright.” “Ouch” “Reckon winter’s come early.” “Ow, my back.” “Time to head out.” “Ooof.” “Floor is slippery.” “Ouch.”
You will find that the Sleet Storm persists for 7 rounds. Tsak will likely be able to reach this kitchen at some point during this time, and he finds the cook is already making his way out, along with the barkeep, a couple of servers, and seven patrons. They all seem a bit confused by all that’s happening, and they look dully at Kiwina as they exit and mill about in the courtyard.
”I think the centaur cast a spell.” “You were right when you said it was a cold spell.” “Why’d he do that.” “Seemed unnecessary.” “I’m going home.” “If you’re hurt, go see the healer.” “Yeah, he can give you something to heal you.”
Falco will soon find that the woman that was unconscious was overcome by smoke, but it seems that she will be alright. She coughs for a bit, but does not seem alarmed or upset. She looks around for a bit and then gets up.
The old couple on the bench across the square point at the commotion at the tavern, and talk to each other. The hunters continue their butchering of the deer, paying no mind to the tavern. The little girl turns at the noise for a moment and then goes back to her tea party.
Elyas (Ben A.) (82/97 HP | AC: 21; Touch:15; Flat: 18; CMD:15) Monday November 6th, 2023 9:06:39 AM
Elyas runs over to help when he sees the flames, but there isn't much left that needs to be done once the sleet storm smothers the flames. He dimension steps into the tavern and if he finds any remaining patrons he touches them and dimension steps back outside with them.
When he hears someone mention the healer he walks closer to them
"I think I am hurt. where is the healer? I need their help"
'Falco (RyanM) AC20 T16 F16, CMD 24, HP 87/87 Channel 7/7 (6d6) Monday November 6th, 2023 9:55:01 AM
Falco curses himself for not preparing Create Water but then the sleet storm starts and he backs away slowly not wanting to get into that mess. Checking the unconscious woman he is put off by her lack of reaction. He considders what to do next. Should I try Dispel Magic on one of them maybe? See if that can snap one of them out of it and get us information?
He stops, hearing what Elyas is saying about a healer. "A local healer might be a good place to start." He moves to Elyas's side/ "Someone show this fellow to the healer!"
Mak(JamesM)(123/123)|AC:29/19T/--FF|CMD 35| Arrows/20+1 CLB|18/13/8/18(RS)/18(H)|(FA,WF,WS,WT,PBS,DA,RS,H,MS,IG)**|1d8+16(MS)(20)x3) Monday November 6th, 2023 11:30:17 AM
Mak stood and watched events unfold in front of him. "Well, looks like they were all drugged. Don't eat of drink anything here."
Panzer Braun (David F) AC 33 (T17, FF25) CMD 33 HP 145/158 ) Character Sheet Monday November 6th, 2023 4:55:33 PM
The emergency is over before Panzer can even call out. He seconds Mak's assesment though. " The little girl said something about a nice man bringing them all some tea and having them drink it. To me that sounds like something to fuddle their minds and to induce....this state on them. Sound like the person you guys are looking for?"
Tsak is moving quickly thru the tavern when the ice storm hits. His feet disappear out from under him and he ends up sliding on his butt into a table and some stools. He continues on all fours toward the kitchen only to see the cook make his way out of the room. "Cool" he thinks as everyone in the tavern slowly and carefully makes their way outside. Tsak scoots across to the outside door, still on his butt, before using the wall to help himself stand up and then walk outside as normally as possible pretending that nothing happened and it's all just another, normal day where he has no trouble staying on his feet. Nope, no trouble whatsoever, nothing to see here...
Overhearing Mak's comment about the town being drugged Tsak gives him a nod That fits, good call
Beech (JohnC) AC 20(24)/15/15,HP 82/82 See Invis/Darkvision Character d20+21=38 ; Monday November 6th, 2023 5:47:55 PM "Anyone able to cure or remove disease or poisons? Or even just suppress them for a while. That's beyond my abilities, but I believe the suppression spell is fairly simple, or so I've been told." Still keeping an eye out, Beech looks for someone not being effected the same way as the residents.
Perception 38
Kiwina (Steve M) 101/131 HP | Current AC:22 or 26 vs AoO | HeP: 0 | Status: awake ! Swim 60' Monday November 6th, 2023 7:51:12 PM "I could eliminate the poison from one of them. Which one would you like to talk with?"
Ayotnom Ogini Hugh C 92/92 | AC : 22; Touch 20; Flat 15 CMD 32(34 vs Trip, Grapple or Disarm) Monday November 6th, 2023 10:31:33 PM
Ayotnom enters the sleety kitchen and makes sure there aren't any patches of flame the spell missed. If he finds any he'll use the bucket on them till it is empty.
DM Mark - "I think I am hurt. where is the healer? I need their help" Tuesday November 7th, 2023 2:42:06 AM
A lot happens all at once as the Petals snap into action!
Tsak slips, but manages to move through the sleet storm, checking for any others to usher them out. He can feel someone and pulls him out.
Ayotnom charges in with a bucket of water. He slips on the ice and goes down. He crawls toward the kitchen, and though the sleet blinds him, he does not notice any flickering flames.
Elyas Dimension Steps into the tavern to rescue anyone in there. He slips as well, but manages to pull out a couple of patrons (uses 60’ of Dimensional Step.)
As the tavern patrons and staff shuffle out, Mak wonders aloud if these folk might be poisoned. He tells his friends not to eat or drink anything here. Tsak agrees, and wonders aloud if anyone can remove poison. Kiwina says that he can, but is not sure whom to cast it on. Panzer mentions the little girl spoke of someone that gave her tea, and that she might be a good candidate for Kiwina’s spell.
Looking around, you can see that some of the folks that came out of the tavern are a bit banged up from taking a fall, but nothing serious. Oddly, through all of this, the townsfolk never really look at or focus on the Petals. They can see you all, but they seem to act as though they don’t actually see you.
Elyas listens to the people speak of a healer, so he says "I think I am hurt. Where is the healer? I need their help"
One of the people there says to another, ”One of them is hurt. He wants to see the healer.” A woman replies, ”The healer. He’s here to help us. They should know he’s down that street. His house is the yellow one on a small hill at the edge of town. The healer will give them something that will help them.” She points in a specific direction down a street. Though she is responding to Elyas query, she responds to another of the townsfolk instead.
Once Kiwina’s spell expires, you can see that the fire is indeed out - nice use of that spell. The tavern is a bit of a mess - some spilled drinks, some of the chairs and tables are overturned, likely by falling people trying to catch themselves. Slowly, the tavern staff shuffle back on, mechanically setting things aright in the tavern. Townsfolk mill about, talking to each other about the strange storm in the tavern. There is more mention of a healer. Some suggest winter may be here early.
The three hunters glanced over at all the commotion, but did not break from their task of butchering the deer. Even the little girl continues her play.
These people are strange. They still seem to move with a dull, mechanical shuffle.
Sense Motive DC 23:Highlight to display spoiler: { They seem to lack any initiative or emotion. It’s almost as if they are only going through the motions of being alive.}
Perception DC 15:Highlight to display spoiler: {A raven flies over the town square, circling once and then flying away.}
Tsak pulls another body out of the tavern, taking them to where he took the unconscious woman he motions Falco that there's another person to have a look over.
Whilst outside he catches up on the conversation regarding a healer in the yellow house on the edge of town. Sounds like a good candidate for a house call.
Then he notices the raven Eyes up folks, seems like someone might be getting an update on our activities here in town. Let's go see this doc.
Does the raven go in the same direction as the doctor's house? Can Tsak tell that from what he saw?
Elyas (Ben A.) (82/97 HP | AC: 21; Touch:15; Flat: 18; CMD:15) d20+14=22 ; d20+15=18 ; Tuesday November 7th, 2023 9:47:29 AM
Sense motive = 22, perception =18
"yes i see it, Tsak. they might be reporting on us, or they might just live here. was hard to tell when we tried talking to them before the village. I'm sure with the spells and all, if anyone is watching the town even half-heartedly they have seen us by now.
Let's go have a chat with this 'Healer'. I still can try to break an enchantment, but i think i need to know more about what is causing it to make sure i can use that spell effectively. We know now that there is a healer that gave them some sort of tea that likely caused this. Seems like enough to go on for now"
Spells prepared:
cantrips: Resistance, detect magic, light, mending Level 1: 2/2X protection from evil, mage armor, 2/3X magic missile, Comprehend Languages Level 2: Darkvision, Scorching Ray, Mirror Image, Glitterdust, 1/3X see invisibility Level 3: 2X Dispel Magic, Haste, Fly, 2X Lightning Bolt Level 4: 2X summon monster IV, Dimensional Anchor, Greater Invisibility, Black tentacles, Wall of Fire Level 5: Baleful Polymorph, Summon Monster V, Teleport, Cone of Cold, Break Enchantment Level 6: 2X Chain Lightning, Summon Monster VI, Flesh to Stone Level 7: 1/2X Summon Monster VII, Force Cage Special: Acid Dart (10/10 remain, 1d6+6), pearl of power 1, bonded item, Quicken Rod 1/3 uses left, dimensional steps (270/390)
Active effects: On Self: Mage Armor (13 hours) darkvision (13 hours) See invisibility (130 minutes) Protection from Evil (7 minutes)
On Party
Summon
'Falco (RyanM) AC20 T16 F16, CMD 24, HP 87/87 Channel 7/7 (6d6) d20+13=33 ; d20+21=37 ; Tuesday November 7th, 2023 10:05:42 AM
{Sense Motive: 33 | Perception: 37}
Falco shakes his head as he watches the people of the town. Like constructs just going about their days. [/i] Hearing Tsak and Elyas talking he nods. [b] "I think this healer may have something to answer for."
Beech (JohnC) AC 20(24)/15/15,HP 82/82 See Invis/Darkvision Character d20+3=6 ; d20+21=25 ; Tuesday November 7th, 2023 12:50:21 PM
Beech looks down the direction towards the "Healer's" house. "Yep, more Crows, but this time it was a singleton, I expect it was someone's eyes. Druids or the Woods, don't matter, didn't look like it was in tatters, so doubt it was undead or dieing. Everyone gather close for a few moments please, then stay inside the edges once I place the spell down the street, it'll cover our movement, at least from above. The effect will be down the center of the street, so watch your step." Beech, studies the street for a few seconds, then casts the illusion. He'll walk slowly, keeping his concentration as he does so making his way towards the healers house.
The "illusion tunnel" of the road from above is 10'x10' and 170' in length.
Sense Motive 6 Perception 25 (auto make the check)
Panzer Braun (David F) AC 33 (T17, FF25) CMD 33 HP 145/158 ) Character Sheet d20+3=16 ; d20+25=40 ; Tuesday November 7th, 2023 6:22:29 PM
Sense Motive 16 fail Perception 40 Panzer sees the bird and really thinks it is time for crow depopulation, but his bow is stowed and the bird is gone. He forms up to head to the healers house. He really wishes he knew why they were here other than they were sent and are following a trail of some kind, but that info isn't able to be shared so he just blithely follows along.
Kiwina (Steve M) 101/131 HP | Current AC:22 or 26 vs AoO | HeP: 0 | Status: awake ! Swim 60' d20+12=23 ; Tuesday November 7th, 2023 6:33:36 PM
(Sense motive = 23, perception = auto success)
The little girl is the one person Kiwina is definitely not going to try to revive. If the spell worked, the recipient would be stuck dealing with their neighbors in this state. Still, the incident with the fire makes it clear they need some alert supervision. He tries to identify someone who may have had leadership potential, and casts neutralize poison on them, although he's a bit itchy to investigate this "healer".
Ayotnom Ogini Hugh C 92/92 | AC : 22; Touch 20; Flat 15 CMD 32(34 vs Trip, Grapple or Disarm) d20+18=23 ; d20+19=25 ; Tuesday November 7th, 2023 10:24:57 PM
(Sense Motive: 23) (Perception:25)
Ayotnom gets himself off the floor and then takes another look around. He says, "Yes I saw the raven scout too. I also observe how these folks seem to just be going through the motions with out any emotions but perhaps this 'healer' of theirs will be the source of this if they are supposedly here to 'help' everyone."
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