Return to Lowestoft (DM Cayzle) Sunday February 6th, 2022 6:51:26 PM Mithril Tap Round Robin Game Background Info
Some of the following info was established by Guest DM Rob at the start of the campaign; other info was added by Cayzle to place the setting in the Wold. All of what follows is canon.
The campaign is based in the city of Lowestoft, at the easternmost reach of the Windborne Hills, on the coast north of Castle Surrender. The local lord is technically a subject of whoever rules the Castle at the moment ... but in practice has a great deal of latitude.
The town of Lowestoft is nestled on the northern tip of the Eyre Peninsula, a miles-long spit of land that juts out into the Creusa Sea. The small bay so created is locally known as the Southland Sea, because it is the southernmost place that the Creusa touches the Ellenian Peninsula. The mountains of the Scab loom to the southeast, and the nearest peaks are known here as the Shelldare Mountains.
Lowestoft is a storybook place; it has a very serene atmosphere to it. Peoiple seldom squabble or argue. The people are known for their smiles, and everybody has enough to eat. The houses and shops all in perfect condition and the streets are all clean.
Lockridge Mansion is nestled atop a hill overlooking the town. From the outside it looks very elegant. Two stories tall and built with white stone bricks, large rectangle windows, and a grey shingled rooftop. The house itself is surrounded by a modest garden. Manicured grass, a few flower patches, a sandbox and a seesaw. In the Mansion: - The Foyer: Dark hardwood floors, some antique side tables beside some padded leather chairs, silver candelabras, oil paintings of people you’ve never seen before. One of those fancy rugs on the floor. Everything clean and well tended. A large marble stairway that leads to the upper floor. - The Master's Study: The lounge is very fine room. Two large couches covered in a supple, dark brown leather sit prominently in the middle of the room. At one end is a large fireplace while at the other is an oak desk by the window. Two long bookcases filled with thick books and tomes adorn the northern wall. A set of empty glasses and a decanter of brown liquid sit on a silver platter on a table to the side of one of the couches. The bookcase on the left has some very interesting books. They are all non-fiction titles and in practically pristine condition. A mixture of historical, geographical and educational books. They are all quite thick books too. Some have the title written in gold inlay, some are written by Lord something or Duchess something-else, some are just covered in red leather. This is quite a valuable collection. The bookshelf on the right might be more interesting. Books on herbology, witchcraft, magical rituals, religion, and medicine. These ones all have creases in the spines and you can see some of the pages are a little dog-eared even without opening the books. Some of the titles you can't make out - either through wear or because they are written in very foreign languages. Some of these books are no doubt very old.
The Marquis has lent the party a townhouse as a dwelling when we are in town. It is two stories tall, painted a dark-burgundy color, and has many square windows that look out to the street. The furnishings aren't anywhere near as glamorous as those of the mansion, but they are clearly better than any commoner would have. The bottom level features a kitchen, larder, dining room, lounge and two bedrooms. The upper floor features the other six bedrooms. There is an exit at the rear that leads to a private stable.
Lockridge Manor NPCs: - Mrs Reyna. A charming young half-elf girl housemaid with short braided red hair, brown eyes, and wearing a charcoal coloured uniform. - Gideon Page, house steward and valet to the master of the house. A man in quite modest attire, on the younger side of middle aged. Late 30s perhaps? He is meticulously well groomed. His brown hair has been perfectly cut and his moustache well trimmed. The clothes he wears are much fancier than you would expect from a common servant. - The Marquis de Lockridge ("Master Horatio Lockridge"). He is in his 30s or 40s. His family has ruled here from this mansion for three generations. The Lockridge family is respected locally. The marquis is a generous sort, known for his charitable works. Note that the party has never met him face to face. He speks from a magic crystal cube on his desk. The party has a contract to work on tasks offered by the Marquis. Part of the contract is that we give some of our earnings back to the town. - Daniella ("Dani"), Lockridge's daughter. A young girl, no more than 6 years old. Her voice is quiet and quite high pitched. Her long, auburn hair is tied back in a ponytail. She looks quite thin and pale, and her eyes are so wide they almost seem too big for her head. She is recovering from a long magical illness.
[OOC from incoming DM Cayzle: Feel free to respond to this post by RPing your return to Lowestoft and our townhouse there. Recall that the party has a contractual obligation to share our spoils with needy causes around town -- though the amount is up to each individual.]
Asimov and Irony | Hugh | AC 17/13/15 HP 53/53 | AC 20/11/19 HP 35/35 Hardness 2 Monday February 7th, 2022 12:54:35 AM
Asimov asks the others, "Did we take that weighty gruel dispenser back with us? Maybe we could install it at a local soup kitchen?"
He takes time to return to the townhouse and make himself presentable by washing the trail off of himself. He also spends a little time polishing Irony.
He then endeavors to get an audience with the Marquis to find out if any other requests have come in for them while they were out.
The Twins 43/43 Monday February 7th, 2022 7:57:03 AM
The Twins immediately monopolize the bath once the party returns and are in there for a very long time.
SteveM - Elron | AC 21 (19 if raging), HP 49/49 Monday February 7th, 2022 7:38:39 PM
Elron makes it his mission to get Gideon to laugh. He doesn't think the man knows how. But that'll be a long term goal. . .
Elron assumes that the most charitable of the temples would be that of Serenbeth, if there is one in Lowestoft. He goes looking, and makes a small (40 gp) donation if indeed he finds one.
Honor Bright (Kathy) Monday February 7th, 2022 9:11:29 PM
After arriving home, Honor unpacks her gear and sorts through it, looking for things that need to be repaired, and things that need to be replaced.
Idly, she wonders what the twins are doing for so long in the bath.
Home At Last (DM Cayzle | Zeoll) d20+15=31 ; Monday February 7th, 2022 9:44:11 PM
Zeoll spends a day relaxing and resting. Later, he walks around town and tries to find someone who needs help.
Gather Info 31
The older taur sees that 90 gold makes its way into the hands of a family that needs it.
===== ===== ===== DM POST
The party relaxes and recovers. A couple make a charitable donation. Asimov sends word to the Marquis, and his steward writes back that you can come to the mansion to talk the day after tomorrow.
Asimov and Irony | Hugh | AC 17/13/15 HP 53/53 | AC 20/11/19 HP 35/35 Hardness 2 Tuesday February 8th, 2022 3:07:00 AM
Asimov endeavors to ask the others, "Can we install that font of food and water somewhere here where it can do some good?"
He also endeavors to donate 20 gold to a good local cause.
Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant 10'5" atm) (Kim) AC 17 Touch 13 FF15 HP 58/58 Tuesday February 8th, 2022 3:23:15 AM
Backstep As there were rivers along the way, Mundhi would have taken the opportunity to bathe therein, and simply warn any males in the party to stay awy for an hour. Her clothing she would wash - and carries soap to help in that endeavor, as well as for cleaning her skin an hair. She has a change of clothes, so her washed clothing should have had time to dry, perhaps draped over the sides of the cart.
To the present In town, she greets by name those she has met before, and shows herself engaging with the folks in town. At the townhouse she stables the mules, and looks to hire a stableboy or girl to care for the animals.
Despite her clothing being relaively clean, it nonetheless is adventure worn. Hers is of necessity the largest bed in the dwelling. She lets Honor and the female Twin know that she is going shopping for clothing, and if they'd like to accompany her, they would be most welcome. "I've found most of the time I need a seamstress or tailor." She looks for someone in town to help her with adding to her wardrobe. Perhaps a dark blue dress, made of wool, somewhat in the style of the dark green dress she has been wearing.
With the latter embroidered dress suffering from many cuts and tears, it may be time to replace it. Except then she recalls that Zeoll, when going through his capabilities and resources, mentioned the spell mending. After shopping, she will ask him if that is something he might do to repair her dress. She does favor its design and cut.
She knows, from her family, and recent experience, that clothing she wears somehow just naturally grows to fit what size she takes.
Mundhildur as well shops for other things - freshening the food supply, picking up other items. She asks how they fare whom she has met before. She also makes discreet inquiries to learn if there are some in need of this or that. Is there perhaps a small project the town might benefit from? The daughter of Kara wants to be wise in how she gives. Foolish gifts can have unintended deleterious effects. Prudent giving can bring joy, properity, and good benefit.
The barber who sings - she finds him, and asks him to teach her a new song or two. And to very lightly trim the ends of her hair - only an inch or so, to account for growth and split ends. In addition to whatever may be the customary fee for his service, she adds a pouch of silver. "Good barber, surely you know of folk in town who need a bit of help here or there. Let two of each ten coins be for you and your kindness. Find eight of each ten coins in this pouch go to those you think most may be in need of a bit of help." The pouch has 100 silver pieces. "Do not tell people it is from me, though. It will be our secret, all right? If people insist on asking, say it is from someone who loves the town."
How much total Mundhi will spend to help the town (aside from her shopping) remains to be seen. She has a bit shy of 1,500 gp in coins, gems and such. Some she intends to retain, some to give.
Since Asimov has asked about installing the food and water dispensers, the Jotun maiden offers to help, and seeks to learn if it is desired in the town. If so, where would be a good placement?
Home At Last (DM Cayzle | Zeoll) Tuesday February 8th, 2022 1:07:51 PM
DM Comment: You only got the food/water font if you paid for it out of your WBL allowance. Otherwise it was left behind.
Honor Bright (Kathy) Tuesday February 8th, 2022 5:58:19 PM
Once her gear is squared away, Honor summons Justice and spends some time on riding practice. Rather than keeping him in the stables, she sends him back to the Celestial Realms when they're done. It's probably much nicer there.
SteveM - Elron | AC 21 (19 if raging), HP 49/49 Tuesday February 8th, 2022 6:24:59 PM
Elron spends time in practice. He's got a fancy new whappin' stick, and wants to try it out. Elron also relaxes, since they've got the chance. Between whappin' and relaxing, the time can go by fast.
Home At Last (DM Cayzle | Zeoll) Wednesday February 9th, 2022 12:43:37 AM
Zeoll putters around in the townhouse gardens. that's as good a way as any to unwind after an adventure; the others of the party do the same, shopping, riding, training.
===== ===== ===== DM POST
Two days back, and the time mentioned on the invitation to the mansion comes around. You find yourselves back in the now-familiar master study, and the crystal cube lights up as the steward announces your presence.
"I hope you found your service to Master Zulok to be productive?" the marquis asks.
Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant 10'5" atm) (Kim) AC 19 Touch 13 FF17 HP 58/58 Wednesday February 9th, 2022 1:45:04 AM
"Ah, Master Horatio, it is good to be back," Mundhildur says in a warm voice, then asks, "Might I ask how fares Dani? I prayed for her a few times in our journey."
She holds up a hand, and adds, "But, perhaps before you answer my question, we first should try to answer yours. Yes, productive, and instructive!
"It took time and patience to puzzle out the way through the ancient place Zulok told us of. No doubt you have dealt with others you need to work with, without knowing how far you might trust them. My friends here, are trustworthy indeed. The drow - at least some drow - appear to be another matter. At least, though, we were able to prevent renewed usage of of an ancient altar of slaughter, with agreement from the Matriarch --- that the altar's destruction was wise.
"As for Master Zulok, who represented himself as one who served Nilyndryl of House D'gul... well, let my friends tell you of the decision he took."
Asimov and Irony | Hugh | AC 17/13/15 HP 53/53 | AC 20/11/19 HP 35/35 Hardness 2 Wednesday February 9th, 2022 2:26:57 AM
Asimov says, "I could sum up what happened but I don't have that flare for the dramatic that Zeoll seems to have so it would probably be more entertaining if he told it. Have you met Irony? I don't remember if I had yet built him when we set out on our journey. He's super useful and can cllimb now."
The Twins 43/43 Wednesday February 9th, 2022 7:52:16 AM
The Twins are a bit more blunt about things. "We killed him." "He started it." "It was rather silly of him to hire us to do something he couldn't." "Then try to kill us after we'd proved his superiors in combat." "He did wait until we were greatly weakened." "Fair, so maybe not stupid but it did not work out for him."
Honor Bright (Kathy) Wednesday February 9th, 2022 5:24:25 PM
"It was perilous work, but it needed to be done," Honor adds. "And with the grace of the gods, several restless spirits were finally given their peace."
SteveM - Elron | AC 21 (19 if raging), HP 49/49 Wednesday February 9th, 2022 10:14:15 PM "I think I don't like drow. You've done much business with them before? Nice mannered folk, but a little on the bad side."
Home At Last (DM Cayzle | Zeoll) Wednesday February 9th, 2022 10:33:06 PM
Zeoll adds a few details, describing the odd places underground that the party traversed. The hall of heads. The room with the mirror of opposition. The troll pit.
"But in the end, aided by friendly ghosts who were the victims of the spider-drow priestess, and by the drow who retained a sense of decency, we won through."
===== ===== ===== DM Post
"Well, I apologize. It seems he misled me too. I regret that I offered your services to a villain."
The Marquis' voice sounds regretful, and a bit chagrined.
"For what it is worth, my next task for you is one I am commissioning directly. As you may know, I am a privy counselor at the Castle, which duties often take me away from home."
"And so I have an imperial favor to ask of you. In the outskirts of Castle, not 15 miles south of you, there has been a rash of murders. At two of the sites, a few feathers were found."
"Do you think you could help me?"
Asimov and Irony | Hugh | AC 17/13/15 HP 53/53 | AC 20/11/19 HP 35/35 Hardness 2 Wednesday February 9th, 2022 11:32:47 PM
Asimov says, "So we are to be detectives now? Can we all go by the title Inspector?"
Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant 10'5" atm) (Kim) AC 19 Touch 13 FF17 HP 58/58 Thursday February 10th, 2022 3:46:56 AM
"Well, we did make new friends, Master Horatio, including a drow matron who owes us big time, and a friendly confused door, and Mya the ghost and her other ghost friends. We learned much. We fought ourselves - really dopplegangers. We destroyed an evil artifact." Mundhildur pulls the rusty hammer from her bag. "With this new hammer! Well, new for me."
"Also, we forgive you, because you did not know. Yes, yes, if my friends all agree, we will look into what you say. Before we do, though, please, can you tell us ... maybe I am a bit afraid to ask ... but, how does little Dani fare?"
The Twins 43/43 Thursday February 10th, 2022 8:04:48 AM
The Twins shrug. "We have nothing better to do." they say in unison.
SteveM - Elron | AC 21 (19 if raging), HP 49/49 Thursday February 10th, 2022 8:29:40 AM "Feathers?! Well of course we'll help."
Honor Bright (Kathy) Thursday February 10th, 2022 2:01:10 PM
"I shall certainly do my best," Honor replies. She adds, "what kind of feathers?"
Some demons have feathers, but Honor fears she couldn't get that lucky.
Home At Last (DM Cayzle | Zeoll) Friday February 11th, 2022 12:16:14 AM
Zeoll gladly nods and agrees. "We would be happy to solve this mystery and bring this villain to justice."
===== ===== ===== DM Post
"Asimov, if you solve this series of crimes, I'll appoint you all Royal Inspectors."
The marquis's voice gets more serious. "The ingredients you returned have worked ... to a large degree. We are still keeping an eye on my sweet daughter, but she is much improved."
The rest of the party agrees to take on the job.
"I know very very little about this mystery. I have a contact in the city of Castle. A Senior Guardsman Tarla. A very competent official of the law running the city watch. Mention my name to her and she'll fill you in on the details."
"Any questions?"
Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant 10'5" atm) (Kim) AC 19 Touch 13 FF17 HP 58/58 Friday February 11th, 2022 12:32:38 AM
Mundhildur nods when Lockridge speaks of his daughter's condition. "An improvement is better, then. My daily prayers shall include her, as they have for many weeks now."
"We will seek out Senior Guardswoman Tarla, then, in the city of Castle. Though you have not the details, might you have any recommendations for us as we prepare to leave?"
She waits until all others who wish to speak do so.
"One request, good father. May I spend a few minutes with sweet Danielle before we depart? If you say no, I shall obey. Yet, her face so cheers my heart."
Asimov and Irony | Hugh | AC 17/13/15 HP 53/53 | AC 20/11/19 HP 35/35 Hardness 2 Friday February 11th, 2022 12:42:28 AM
Asimov says, "How long ago did the murders start happening?"
The Twins 43/43 Friday February 11th, 2022 6:28:12 AM
The Twins too would like to see the daughter. They obviously don't say it but it would be nice to know that there is actually a sick daughter and the ingredients aren't being used for some other, nefarious purpose.
SteveM - Elron | AC 21 (19 if raging), HP 49/49 Friday February 11th, 2022 10:39:35 AM
Elron has a joke already prepared for Dani: I got Gideon this card that says, Hope you get better soon. I know he's not sick, I just think he can get better. Or maybe the group can bring her a colony of ants. They have little anty bodies.
Meanwhile, solving crimes doesn't sound like something in Elron's wheelhouse. But he trusts some of the folks here can do it and he can help in other ways. Plus, he's curious about the feathers. He helps now by making sure they have directions to get to Castle.
Honor Bright (Kathy) Friday February 11th, 2022 4:15:48 PM
"I don't think I have any questions," Honor says.
Home At Last (DM Cayzle | Zeoll) d4=2 ; Saturday February 12th, 2022 11:13:38 AM
Zeoll recalls seeing the little girl before, though just for a few moments. And of course, the townsfolk have mentioned her before, he thinks.
He has a question as well. "Sirr, do you have any intuition that this is a ... political thing? Who werre the victims?"
===== ===== ===== DM Post
[OOC: I'll make it a d4 roll ... on a 1 the child is too sick today. Roll ... a 2.]
The Marquis understands your desire to see the Dani. "Indeed, she gladdens the hearts of all who see her. Gideon, allow a short visit after we are done here, if Danielle is feeling up to it." THe steward nods.
As for questions about the murders, he has a little information. "About 4 or 5 deaths, all common folk, all taken while working outdoors alone. No one of noble blood, so likely not political. The road south is clear, you can't miss it."
"Thank you, my friends. You have not asked about payment, but I hope you have found me generous so far. My intention is to reward success. Good luck!"
The crystal cube stops glowing. Gideon Page leads you to Dani's room, but it seems the child is down for a nap. You see her sleeping from the doorway to her room. "She is much improved, thanks to you good folk," says Mrs Reyna, "but still a frail child, and sickly. The dear."
Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant 10'5" atm) (Kim) AC 19 Touch 13 FF17 HP 58/58 Saturday February 12th, 2022 1:03:14 PM
Mundhildur wears her new dark blue dress. Softly the Jotun whispers to Mrs Reyna, "A gentle lullaby my mother sang over me." After that brief introduction, she steps carefully into the room, issues a quiet sigh, then sings a soothing song for the little girl in the giant tongue...
Should the lass awaken, the tall woman's face breaks into a smile. "Was your sleep nice, pumpkin?" "We wanted to say hello, dear Dani. Oh, and I have a wee friend who wants to meet you."
Out of a pouch she pulls a little hand puppet - a fluffy white lamb's head - and moves its mouth as she says in a high voice, "Hello! My name is Lambkin. I'm a mountain sheep. I love to frolic in the meadows," she says, as Mundhi has her bounce a few times in the air. "I eat the sweet grass. I like to climb among the rocks," she says, and Mundhi's hand takes her from down near her waist to up near her shoulder, then has her peer downward, "and see the lands below. What's your name, little girl?" She repeats her name, and plays with it a bit, then asks, "What do you like to do?"
If Dani has awakened and interacts with the puppet, Mundhi plays along. Lambkin makes some playful observations about the girl to Mundhi, and makes some observations about the Jotun to Danielle. And Lambkin giggles.
If things go nicely in their interaction, Lambkin says to Dani, "I like you, DaniDani. Can I snuggle my cheek next to yours?" If allowed, she does so for a moment.
"We have to go now, but, when we come back, could we play together, a little?" the puppet asks the girl.
As her mother used to have a few puppets she played with her and her brother, Mundhi learned to speak without moving her lips - or at least barely moving them - as she uses the puppet's voice.
SteveM - Elron | AC 21 (19 if raging), HP 49/49 Saturday February 12th, 2022 2:23:43 PM
Elron is a bit sad that he doesn't get to tell Dani his joke. But he got to tell everyone else, so it didn't go to waste.
"I don't got a lot o' packin' t' do. When do ya'll want t' leave?"
Mitch - The Twins HP 65/65 AC 26/12/24 d10=9 ; d10=7 ; Sunday February 13th, 2022 6:22:51 AM
(Finally leveled and apparently I was lvl 4 all of last module so did two levels to 6. Ranged damage literally doubled from composite bow purchase - 1d8 to 1d8+8)
The Twins eye the girl peacefully sleeping and leave to let her sleep. They go shopping and get nifty new magic items.
Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant 7'4" atm) (Kim) AC 19 Touch 13 FF17 HP 58/58 Sunday February 13th, 2022 11:24:23 PM
Concerning helping out the townsfolk, she uses the information she gathered from various people to come up with a project that will benefit many, and in which many can help out, with time or resources. As what the community or personal needs is in the purview of the DM, I'm open to feedback.
She lays 480 (3% of WBL) toward giving what she can to support the community. Already mentioned the 100 sp (10 gp) to the barber to provide some light targeted help on a very small scale, and adds another 200 sp just before she leaves if she is satisfied with what the barber has done so far.
That leaves 450gp.
Is there a school, or are there schools in town? If so, she wants to help support it (or them). There are so many things to learn to get ready for life. She looks to see how she can help toward that end. Good teachers are needed. Books. Ways to learn practical skills. She wants a group of parents, craftspeople, business folks (one or two followers of Ffloy would be great), and a few other community representatives to help improve educational opportunities. If a school has not yet been started, she asks them to meet and lay out a plan for a school. "When we get back, let's see what ideas you have come up with." 400 gp set aside for existing, or to-be-developed school.
She checks to see if there are any followers of Ffloy in Lowestoft. If so, she would like to coordinate with him, her, or them to work toward setting up some sort of savings and loan and/or credit union. If there are no Ffloyans (Ffloyites? Ffloyies?) in town, she will ask Gideon Page if he knows of someone in town who might have some business sense, as well as demonstrated integrity. Maybe the same person or someone else to help out who knows law and understands contracts. A few folks with wisdom, common sense.
Home At Last (DM Cayzle | Zeoll) Monday February 14th, 2022 12:08:21 AM
Before leaving the mansion, Zeoll asks Gideon if the marquis will still underwrite reasonable goods. He confirms that items worth up to 50 gp each can be charged to the Marquis, "Although I would have to report any overindulgence in this grant to the Marquis."
Zeoll spends some time training with his friends. He wants to make sure everybody knows what he can do, and how to fight around a Peaceball.
===== ===== ===== DM Post
Mundhi sings a gentle lullaby, and the child does not awaken. Maybe she can play next time.
Back at the townhouse, Elron thinks about loeaving. The Twins go shopping. Mundhi is generous and gives liberally. Zeoll trains with the party, or at least with those willing to listen.
It is time to head south toward Castle. Of course, you know that the full name is "Castle Surrender," but the nickname is all that's commonly used locally.
You stand at a crossroads just out of town. One roadsign points east into the Scab. That's the road you just travelled. Another sign points south, toward Castle.
Asimov and Irony | Hugh | AC 17/13/15 HP 53/53 | AC 20/11/19 HP 35/35 Hardness 2 Monday February 14th, 2022 12:25:50 AM
"To Castle Surrender" Asimov says.
"I wonder how it got the nickname Surrender"
Mitch - The Twins HP 65/65 AC 26/12/24 Monday February 14th, 2022 7:17:06 PM "Either the owners of the castles were so fearsome enemies that sieged it inevitably surrendered..." "Or the owners always did." "Probably named for the former." "But realistically we expect the latter."
SteveM - Elron | AC 21 (19 if raging), HP 49/49 Monday February 14th, 2022 8:03:48 PM "South it is." Elron begins humming a walking tune.
Honor Bright (Kathy) Monday February 14th, 2022 11:15:29 PM
At the manor, Honor is quiet so as not to awaken the sleeping child.
Her preparations are complete, so she is ready to leave with the others. For now, she rides Justice.
Castle Surrender
Home At Last (DM Cayzle | Zeoll) Monday February 14th, 2022 11:57:20 PM
Everybody around these parts knows that "Castle" is short for "Castle Surrender." The name comes from the fact that the throne has never been held by anyone very long (the current record is 10 years.)
Indeed, as you walk to the town, you can see the castle, a gorgeous ediface, has no walls whatsoever.
There is a stout city wall protecting the city of Castle, however. The guards at the north gate stop you and demand that you state your business and what you seek.
They expect each hero to answer for themself.
Asimov and Irony | Hugh | AC 17/13/15 HP 53/53 | AC 20/11/19 HP 35/35 Hardness 2 Tuesday February 15th, 2022 12:59:26 AM
Asimov says, "The name is Asimov and I am somewhat of a wandering adventure / tinkerer. This here is Irony" and he points to the mechanical minion, "I built him. I am here at the bequest of the Marquis to investigate the recent string of murders that have happened round these parts."
Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant 7'4" atm) (Kim) AC 19 Touch 13 FF17 HP 58/58 Tuesday February 15th, 2022 4:59:45 AM
"We are here to find out who or what has been killing people and get them to stop it. I am Mundhildur Karadottir of Clan Stormur og Sky og Vindur Morguns. These are my friends. We aim to help people, to right wrongs, to battle evils, and to tell good stories."
Mitch - The Twins HP 65/65 AC 26/12/24 Tuesday February 15th, 2022 8:23:47 AM "We are the Twins." "We come from a distant land to explore and learn." "And do some good along the way." "Our business currently is to help our group investigate this murder." "And maybe experience some local culture while we're at it."
If the guard insists on each twin identifying themselves separately they merely say they are one half of the Twins. Further insistence might elicit a sigh and an answer along the lines of two opposite concepts like hot and cold or light and dark. The answer changes every time asked.
Honor Bright (Kathy) Tuesday February 15th, 2022 3:00:59 PM
"My name is Honor Faith Constance Bright, and I am a paladin of Pantheon," Honor replies. "My companions and I have come to help investigate the recent mysterious deaths."
SteveM - Elron | AC 21 (19 if raging), HP 49/49 Tuesday February 15th, 2022 7:09:55 PM "I am Elron -- Elron of Herringbone, or some such. Like my companions, I was asked to come present myself to a guardsman named Tarla to see if we could help."
Home At Last (DM Cayzle | Zeoll) Tuesday February 15th, 2022 8:48:31 PM
Zeoll nods at his friends and follows suit.
"Yes, I am Zeoll, an adventurerr in serrvice to Marrquis de Lockrridge; we arre herre at his rrequest to help bring a murrderrerr to justice."
===== ===== ===== DM Post
The guardsman at the gate is happy to let you in, after taking down your names and descriptions.
"Senior Guardsman Tarla can be found in the town gaol."
You enter the city of Castle. The terrain here is hilly, and the actual castle is built into a rocky elevation looking over the hall. Despite that elevation, Castle Surrender is not a very fortified hall.
The town is important mostly for trade. Stone, gems, metal, and marble from the Scab enters the Windborne Hills here, and food and other trade goods move east. There is also a small local mining industry in the hills, and a farmer's market.
The gaol is just downhill from the castle. Do you go right there, or head to some other destination in town first?
Asimov and Irony | Hugh | AC 17/13/15 HP 53/53 | AC 20/11/19 HP 35/35 Hardness 2 Wednesday February 16th, 2022 12:55:01 AM
Asimov says, "My vote is for ye olde gaol but if you have another idea I am open to suggestions"
Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant 7'4" atm) (Kim) AC 19 Touch 13 FF17 HP 58/58 Wednesday February 16th, 2022 4:08:58 AM
"Let's pick up a few things from the farmers' market, then on to the gaol," recommends Mundhildur. She wants some fruits, veggies, and some meat for cooking later. She'll spend up to a few gold pieces to get a good supply. She will also make a few inquiries about where to stable some stubborn mules. Then she is happy to proceed to meet with Tarla the Senior Guardswoman.
Mitch - The Twins HP 65/65 AC 26/12/24 Wednesday February 16th, 2022 6:06:53 AM
The Twins vote for going strait there and shopping afterwards. The conversation could make the party decide they need to buy something specific after all, so no point in shopping until after they get some more details.
SteveM - Elron | AC 21 (19 if raging), HP 49/49 Wednesday February 16th, 2022 7:13:26 AM
What time of day do they arrive? If early, Elron suggests the gaol first; if midday, a meal then gaol; and if late, setting up lodging and gaol in the morning.
Honor Bright (Kathy) Wednesday February 16th, 2022 9:28:14 PM
"We should head for the gaol first," Honor says. "We don't even know if we'll be able to cook where we're staying. And I doubt they'll let us camp in the town square."
Home At Last (DM Cayzle | Zeoll) Wednesday February 16th, 2022 11:14:52 PM
Zeoll agrees with those who want to visit the gaol first. "It is still morrning, so I have a hunch that we'll meet herr beforre she heads out on herr rrounds."
===== ===== ===== DM Post
Zeoll's prediction is eerily accurate. "I was just about to go out on my rounds," says Tarla. "But you caught me in time."
You meet the senior guardsman in the foyer of the gaol. She is dressed in nice studded leather armor, steel-toe boots, and a bright red cape with a hood. You saw the same red cape worn by the guards on the wall. She also carries a huge two-handed sword in a back sheath.
"Ah, you must be the adventurers Master Lockridge told me about. Yes, good, very nice to meet you all."
She asks if you would sit for a short interview, and she asks your names, backgrounds, and classes. Her keen questions also give her a sense of your level. Does anyone want to mislead her or conceal information?
Sense Motive DC 20: Highlight to display spoiler: {The more unusual members of the group ... the giant, the technomancer, and the twins ... are unfamiliar to her, and she is clearly intrigued and curious, but not in a negative way.}
She tells you that there have been five murders, all outside the city proper, all of solitary people. A shepherd, a traveler, a merchant, a farmer, and a child playing outside. Those who had anything of value were robbed, and all were cut badly and stabbed. The traveler, farmer, and merchant (really more of a tinker with a mule) evidently all fought back. Extra blood and feathers were found at those three sites.
"I can't tell you how glad I am that competent folk are looking into this. Thank you."
SteveM - Elron | AC 21 (19 if raging), HP 49/49, DR 1/-- d20+10=28 ; Wednesday February 16th, 2022 11:36:15 PM "I'm Elron. Elron of Herringbone, or some such. I guess I'm what, lower middle class? Never felt low-class, anyways. As for my background, well I grew up wanderin' an' on a farm, an' then went an' spent some time with th' singing monks o' Norcia. Roosters is songbirds, you know. And say, what kind o' feathers?"
Elron does not conceal information, but sometimes he -- squirrel!
"I got a good story 'bout th' monks, too. . ."
Asimov and Irony | Hugh | AC 17/13/15 HP 53/53 | AC 20/11/19 HP 35/35 Hardness 2 d20+1=16 ; Wednesday February 16th, 2022 11:44:37 PM
Sense Motive: 16
Asimov says, "Well, I'm not quite from around here but I've been told that what I do is similar to what other mages do here except well it is kind of technical. So I go around calling myself a Tinker and Irony well I built him. He's pretty good in close combat; slams into things, can take a decent amount of abuse."
"Perhaps we try to lay a trap for the murderer using Irony as bait. Even if the unknown assailant stabs Irony hard enough to damage the construct I can always rebuild."
Mitch - The Twins HP 65/65 AC 26/12/24 Thursday February 17th, 2022 7:17:29 AM
The Twins have no interest in obscuring information other then their usual games of preventing people from identifying them as individuals. They intended to ask the feather question but Elron beats them to it. "Has plotted the attacks on a map?" "That might help."
If no one has done that then the Twins will request a map of the area if one is handy and do so themselves. If one is not handy then they know what to buy on their shopping trip later.
Honor Bright (Kathy) Thursday February 17th, 2022 2:58:31 PM
Honor quite happily shares her full name, and chats a bit about her upbringing at the temple.
At Elron's query, she adds, "Or, maybe somebody saved some of the feathers? I wouldn't know what they were, but Mundhildur might."
Asimov and Irony | Hugh | AC 17/13/15 HP 53/53 | AC 20/11/19 HP 35/35 Hardness 2 Friday February 18th, 2022 12:11:03 AM
Asimov says, "Did any of the folks have any enemies? Was their any connection between any of them? Like did they all go to the same place in the days leading up to their murder?"
Home At Last (DM Cayzle | Zeoll) Friday February 18th, 2022 12:14:56 AM
Zeoll listens and is happy to share that he is a druid/bard.
===== ===== ===== DM Post
"I don't have any feathers or map, but I can take you to the places we found bodies."
When asked what kind of feathers they were, she looks baffled. "Um, bird feathers? White and grey? Pretty big?"
"You heroes just got to town, right? You can stay in the guard barracks for free, or at one of our inns. You want to rest up before we go traipsing in the woods? Or if you want to, we could go right now?"
Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant 7'4" atm) (Kim) AC 19 Touch 13 FF17 HP 58/58 d20+7=22 ; Friday February 18th, 2022 1:45:16 AM
Mundhi told about herself, not much different from what she told the guard at the wall. She does pick up on Tarla's curiosity about herself and her friends. She smiles and says, "Right. I know we are not the average group of people." She tells a little bit about the Jotun.
When Honor mentions Mundhildur may know something about the bird by its feathers, She shrugs her shoulders and says, "I might. Would need to see them."
"The barracks sound good. Can we stable our animals somewhere? Once that is handled, sure, let's go now."
Mitch - The Twins HP 65/65 AC 26/12/24 Friday February 18th, 2022 6:32:12 AM
The Twins request a little time to go grab a local map real quick so they can plot out things on a map. If the guardsman is willing to tell them where to find the right shop it shouldn't take long.
SteveM - Elron | AC 21 (19 if raging), HP 49/49, DR 1/-- Friday February 18th, 2022 9:16:50 AM "Well, ma'am, there's big an' there's BIG. I'm guessin' you'd'a said somethin' if they was several feet long, so big for an ordin -- Oh, let's just go." Knowing that they will have a place to stay if they want, Elron's ready to see the scene.
Honor Bright (Kathy) Friday February 18th, 2022 2:31:52 PM
"Either the barracks or an inn would suit me," Honor says. "And I'm ready to go traipsing when everyone else is."
Gray and white feathers, she thinks. A killer seagull? No. An owl maybe? Ooh! What about an owlbear?! No, owlbears don't rob people... Honor continues turning it over in her mind.
Home At Last (DM Cayzle | Zeoll) d4=1 ; d100=24 ; Saturday February 19th, 2022 10:49:59 PM
Zeoll is happy to help Mundhi with the pack animals, but Bill the Camel stays with the liontaur. "If I don't keep him with me, he gets so sad, you know."
The barracks sound fine to the liontaur. But his might stay in the garrison stable with Bill and the animals seeing as he is a bigger fellow who needs space to streeetch out.
===== ===== ===== DM Post
Mundhi settles the beasts of burden.
The Twins go shopping for a map. A couple random die rolls later ... they find several out-of-date maps in a thick book supposedly detailing all the major seiges and battles for Castle Surrender. The book is 10 gp if you want it.
It would probably be sufficient for your purposes, if you like.
[OOC: I'll make ya a rough sketch if ya pays yer 10 goldies!]
The party agrees that staying at the barracks will be fine.
Then the senior guardsman leads the party to the nearest site. It is on the road going further south, and it was where a travelling pack-merchant was travelling. There almost no sign remaining.
"The King asked us to clean up real well here seeing as nobody travelling wants to be put off their tea," she explains.
Mitch - The Twins HP 65/65 AC 26/12/24 Sunday February 20th, 2022 8:25:50 PM
(You don't need to actually draw a map, just tell us if plotting out the murders shows anything interesting, IE they're all within X miles of Y location).
10g is cheap enough so the Twins go ahead and buy the thing.
Asimov and Irony | Hugh | AC 17/13/15 HP 53/53 | AC 20/11/19 HP 35/35 Hardness 2 d20+9=10 ; d20+12=31 ; d20+12=16 ; Sunday February 20th, 2022 9:00:02 PM
Asimov says, "So I take it we won't find any evidence then?
With nothing else to go on Asimov takes out the magic detector and has a look around.
Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant 7'4" atm) (Kim) AC 19 Touch 13 FF17 HP 58/58 d20+7=13 ; Monday February 21st, 2022 4:12:14 AM
"Describe, if you would, Tarla Guard, what you know about what happened to each person," Mundhildur requests. "How were their bodies injured? How badly? Aside from their lives, could anyone tell if anything were taken from them? A large bird of prey would usually carry the body of its victim off to some other place to eat it, if it did not eat it where killed. Were there marks of talons, or paw prints, or any indentations in the ground that did not seem to belong to the victims?"
She checks out the area along with Asimov to see if she can discern anything that may have been left untouched or only partially disturbed by the clean-up crew. ========= Perception: 13
SteveM - Elron | AC 21 (19 if raging), HP 49/49, DR 1/-- d20+15=30 ; Monday February 21st, 2022 7:36:43 PM
Elron tries to listen as Miss Tarla tells them about what happened. But he's worried that it might be particularly upsetting, seeing how it involves people getting killed, and that probably not in natural ways. If he zones out for a moment here or there, well, that's probably to be expected.
He studies the area carefully, though. Sometimes the smallest clue can be interesting. (Perception = 30)
Honor Bright (Kathy) Monday February 21st, 2022 10:17:29 PM
Honor stands back and lets the others investigate. She isn't especially good at noticing things, and she doesn't know much about tracking, or nature. Murder is definitely an evil act, but any lingering traces of evil have probably long gone. The only thing she might be able to do is...
"Um, pardon me," she says. "I hate to sound morbid, but have all the bodies already been buried. It's just--" she adds hastily. "It's just that we might be able to get a clue from the kinds of wounds the suffered."
Home At Last (DM Cayzle | Zeoll) Monday February 21st, 2022 10:24:48 PM
Zeoll says that you all are doing swell! "If you need a hand with anything, just ask!" [OOC: Zeoll contributes when others ask him for some specific help.]
===== ===== ===== DM Post
The Twins work with the guardsman to plot the attacks on the map. It is like laking a scatter plot. And it turns out that all the incidents took place east of the city, and maybe with a couple more to the southeast by east.
Asimov scan for magic but comes up blank.
Honor asks about the bodies, but as she feared, they have all been interred in blessed ground.
Mundhi looks around but sees nothing.
Keen-eyed Elron, however, notes that in a nearby tree, one of the thicker branches is scored, as if by claws!
Maybe if you climbed up and took a closer look?
Asimov and Irony | Hugh | AC 17/13/15 HP 53/53 | AC 20/11/19 HP 35/35 Hardness 2 d20+6=9 ; d20+10=18 ; Tuesday February 22nd, 2022 1:10:10 AM
(Climb: 9, Perception: 18)
Asimov goes over to the tree and tries to climb up there to investigate the marks but probably fails to make any progress climbing.
(OOC: Too bad I wasn't playing the witcher when we started this tap or else my character design would have been completely different and this kind of thing would have been my jam)
Mitch - The Twins HP 65/65 AC 26/12/24 Tuesday February 22nd, 2022 5:32:34 AM
The Twins aren't too perceptive so act as note-keepers for whatever information the others find to make sure they don't forget anything later when trying to put the clues together.
SteveM - Elron | AC 21 (19 if raging), HP 49/49, DR 1/-- Tuesday February 22nd, 2022 8:25:03 AM "Hey, Zeoll ol' buddy, can you give me a boost?" Elron's not much of a climber, but he's got tall friends.
Honor Bright (Kathy) Tuesday February 22nd, 2022 9:43:19 PM
Once the score/claw marks are pointed out, Honor says, "Zeoll? Mundhildur? Any idea what kind of creature that could be?"
Home At Last (DM Cayzle | Zeoll) d20+11=31 ; Tuesday February 22nd, 2022 10:18:23 PM
Zeoll helps Asimov and Elron up the tree. Then he rears up on his hind legs to take a peek himself.
The liontaur's nat 20 Know Nature roll should help.
===== ===== ===== DM Post
Elron, Asimov, and Zeoll determine that the claw marks were made by a raptor, a big one, as big as a hman, maybe.
The Twins jot this down.
There's not much else to see here. "What would you like to do next?" asks Tarla. "Head back and rest? Look at another site? Something else?"
SteveM - Elron | AC 21 (19 if raging), HP 49/49, DR 1/-- Tuesday February 22nd, 2022 11:06:50 PM "Once folks are satisfied we've found what we can here, I say we see if we find these marks at some o' the otha' sites." Elron tries to figure out just how big the things feet are, using his own for comparison. "A raptor -- you mean a bird o' prey?"
Asimov and Irony | Hugh | AC 17/13/15 HP 53/53 | AC 20/11/19 HP 35/35 Hardness 2 Wednesday February 23rd, 2022 12:56:01 AM
Asimov says, "Does anyone know if the local constabulary has any clay? Maybe we should take a cast of the claw marks in case we come across a raptor to make sure we have the right culprit? After we have the cast of the claw marks I'd be game for checking out another attack site."
Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant 10'5" atm) (Kim) AC 19 Touch 13 FF17 HP 58/58 Wednesday February 23rd, 2022 7:00:35 AM
The giant woman takes a look, too, growing to full height. "Yes, let's look over the next site."
Mitch - The Twins HP 65/65 AC 26/12/24 Wednesday February 23rd, 2022 7:24:24 AM
The Twins do their best to draw the clawmarks but have no skill points put into that so are probably terrible at it.
Honor Bright (Kathy) Wednesday February 23rd, 2022 2:50:01 PM
"I'm guessing the raptor is a companion or pet," Honor says. "Raptors don't rob people. There is almost certainly a person involved in this."
Home At Last (DM Cayzle | Zeoll) Wednesday February 23rd, 2022 11:26:36 PM
Zeoll agrees to go on to the next site. "I'm not tirred."
===== ===== ===== DM Post
Tarla leads you all on.
The murder nearby took place in a meadow, where a shepherd was attacked. Several sheep were killed too, but their carcasses were never found. You can see a thicket into which the sheep tried to run for cover. The body of the shepherd has been cared for and removed.
Asimov and Irony | Hugh | AC 17/13/15 HP 53/53 | AC 20/11/19 HP 35/35 Hardness 2 d20+10=16 ; d20+12=16 ; d20+12=32 ; Thursday February 24th, 2022 12:53:04 AM
(Perception: 16) (Knowledge: Arcana - 16) (Spellcraft: 32)
Asimov looks around the meadow then fires up his magic detector and looks for clues
Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant 10'5" atm) (Kim) AC 19 Touch 13 FF17 HP 58/58 d20+7=17 ; Thursday February 24th, 2022 4:47:57 AM
"The sheep were for food. The shepherd - likely he was trying to defend the sheep," is Mundhildur's take. She looks around, trying to find any imprints left by the creature that the clean-up crew managed to overlook. And for feathers.
Perception: 17
Mitch - The Twins HP 65/65 AC 26/12/24 Thursday February 24th, 2022 9:00:51 AM
The Twins take notes.
Honor Bright (Kathy) Thursday February 24th, 2022 3:16:34 PM
"If there were no carcasses found, how do you know the sheep were killed?" Honor asks. "Could they have just been carried off?"
SteveM - Elron | AC 21 (19 if raging), HP 49/49, DR 1/-- d20+15=27 ; Thursday February 24th, 2022 7:46:04 PM
Elron looks for more clues, particularly raptor claw marks (since he knows to look for those now). But more feathers, signs of a struggle, or whatnot might also help.
(Perception = 27)
Asimov and Irony | Hugh | AC 17/13/15 HP 53/53 | AC 20/11/19 HP 35/35 Hardness 2 Thursday February 24th, 2022 11:51:37 PM
Asimov waits to learn what they discover
Home At Last (DM Cayzle | Zeoll) Friday February 25th, 2022 12:49:03 AM
Zeoll puts nose and eyes to work looking over the scene.
===== ===== ===== DM Post
Guardsman Tarla leads the party over and points out the places where the domesticated beasts were likely killed. There are signs of blood and a few bits of wool around. A single feather too.
She has an answer for Honor. "The owner of the flock told us how many there should have been, and we know how many were recovered."
Elron and Zeoll, looking around, confirm this -- and Mundhi's analysis seems spot on.
Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant 10'5" atm) (Kim) AC 19 Touch 13 FF17 HP 58/58 d20+3=7 ; Friday February 25th, 2022 5:24:05 AM
Mundhi examines the feather. She is trained in handling animals, but has not really done any wrangling of avians. She does measure the length and breadth of the feather, though, wondering if it matches some bird she has seen in the mountains.
"Zeoll, can you tell what sort of bird this is from?"
============ Handle animal: 7 - this likely does not help much!
Mitch - The Twins HP 65/65 AC 26/12/24 d20=15 ; Friday February 25th, 2022 6:02:49 AM
The Twins look at the feather and try to think if they've seen such a thing in their long travels (no useful skils so raw int or wis check! take your pick. 15)
SteveM - Elron | AC 21 (19 if raging), HP 49/49, DR 1/-- Friday February 25th, 2022 11:14:03 AM
Elron considers the feather. Most likely a vaned feather -- that's what most mammal-folk mean when they say feather -- not down or a filoplume. It might be stiff and in layers provide some protection much like scale mail, or water resistant so the owner stays dry in wet weather. He considers whether the vane is fairly symmetrical about the shaft, and how many barbicels the thing has to hold its shape, to estimate whether it is a flight feather that may have fallen on its own from the owner's exertions, or plumage that might have been dislodged by the attempts of its victim to save itself. Flight feathers will be stiff in one direction but not the other. If the barbules break off easily, maybe the owner. . . But no, lots of different birds have powder down. Elron also looks for signs of parasites. Murderous and anti-social creatures might not be trusted to keep themselves too clean. When he's done, he's none the wiser.
"So, how many sheep do you think it ate?"
Honor Bright (Kathy) Friday February 25th, 2022 8:24:21 PM
"But how do you know for sure the sheep were killed, rather than just taken?" Honor persists. "I mean, some of them were killed, sure. All that blood. But some could have just been taken away."
"I don't suppose it matters," she continues. "Alive or dead, the sheep had to be carried off. Which means we're looking for something very strong. And probably very big."
Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant 10'5" atm) (Kim) AC 19 Touch 13 FF17 HP 58/58 Sunday February 27th, 2022 9:25:04 PM
"Along with the wheres, we need to know the whens. When and where the first attack? Where and when the second? The third? And so on. How many days between? How recently was the last attack?" Mundhildur inquires.
Home At Last (DM Cayzle | Zeoll) d20+11=21 ; Sunday February 27th, 2022 10:49:23 PM
With Mundhi's prompting, Zeoll ponders the claw marks and the feather.
Knowledge Nature 21
===== ===== ===== DM Post
Mundhi, the Twins, Elron, and Zeoll deduce that it is no natural bird, not an eagle, say, It is too big. Probably as big as a man. Maybe a giant eagle? Or something else big with wings.
Honor's idea of one big thing does not really match the claw marks. Probably several medium or large things.
The Guardsman tells Mundhi that she'll put together a report on the deets tomorrow.
Asimov and Irony | Hugh | AC 17/13/15 HP 53/53 | AC 20/11/19 HP 35/35 Hardness 2 Monday February 28th, 2022 1:50:24 AM
Asimov says, "Besides the claw marks and the feather and all the blood was anything else found at any other scene? Maybe we can get an idea of whether it was a single creature or a group based on what the sum of information we have is."
Honor Bright (Kathy) Monday February 28th, 2022 1:22:53 PM
"A whole flock of....somethings," Honor says. "Harpies? They might rob people. Although harpies usually make their prey come to them rather than the other way around."
SteveM - Elron | AC 21 (19 if raging), HP 49/49, DR 1/-- d20+15=31 ; d20+8=20 ; Monday February 28th, 2022 9:26:05 PM
Elron seems to think that he'd be crawling with parasites by now it he touched a harpy feather. Just to be sure, he walks around the attack site at a distance, looking for signs that the creatures more likely flew than ran.
(Perception = 31, survival = 20 (looking for tracks))
Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant 10'5" atm) (Kim) AC 19 Touch 13 FF17 HP 58/58 Monday February 28th, 2022 11:17:19 PM
"I need an apple. Several apples. Let's go to the next site, if we can. May I stop by the market on the way, if it's not too far off the path?" Mundhildur inquires.
Home At Last (DM Cayzle | Zeoll) Monday February 28th, 2022 11:37:23 PM
Zeoll joins his friends in surveying the crime scenes.
===== ===== ===== DM Post
You travel to each of the other sites, finding either nothing or similar clues: talon marks, feathers, sometimes bodies are taken, other times just possessions. The sites cluster on the eastern edges of the city. Never any tracks.
"It's been a long day," says Tarla. Let's get back to the guard barracks and some grub.
You find yourselves ready to rest in Castle. Any actions before sleep? Do you need to set watches in a guards center? Deeds for the dawn?
Asimov and Irony | Hugh | AC 17/13/15 HP 53/53 | AC 20/11/19 HP 35/35 Hardness 2 Tuesday March 1st, 2022 3:05:06 AM
Asimov says, "Irony can be stationed in the guard room all night as he can stand watch while I rest, if everyone wants."
Asimov takes stock of the devices he has available and nothing he can build can seem to really help the situation more
Mitch - The Twins HP 65/65 AC 26/12/24 Tuesday March 1st, 2022 8:27:37 AM
The Twins wash their hands of ink and go straight to bed, assuming a watch order to be overkill in the middle of a town.
Honor Bright (Kathy) Tuesday March 1st, 2022 2:11:15 PM
"That's a good idea, Asimov," Honor says through a yawn. Other than eating dinner and removing her armor, she has no preparations to make before some well-earned rest.
SteveM - Elron | AC 21 (19 if raging), HP 49/49, DR 1/-- Tuesday March 1st, 2022 5:06:59 PM
Elron looks forward to someone else reading and summarizing this report the guards are going to give them. He wonders whether the attacks happen a certain time of day, and how busy the areas where they happened are. He wonders even more where the best place in town to eat is.
Asimov and Irony | Hugh | AC 17/13/15 HP 53/53 | AC 20/11/19 HP 35/35 Hardness 2 Tuesday March 1st, 2022 11:23:53 PM
Asimov instructs Irony to stand guard and then prepares to rest himself unless there is anything interesting in that report.
Home At Last (DM Cayzle | Zeoll) Tuesday March 1st, 2022 11:41:36 PM
Zeoll entertains with some gentle music before bed.
===== ===== ===== DM Post
Turns out the timing of the attacks is not really well defined. Three at different times during the day, two by twilight.
Irony keeps watch, and the party gets a good night of rest. The day dawns, and over a breakfast of berries and bacon, Tarla asks if you will need her today.
Sense Motive DC13: Highlight to display spoiler: {You sense that she is eager to make up for yesterday's lost time at her usual tasks.}
Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant 10'5" atm) (Kim) AC 19 Touch 13 FF17 HP 58/58 d20+7=20 ; d20+2=11 ; Wednesday March 2nd, 2022 3:07:45 AM
"I suppose you have other things to catch up on, Tarla," Mundhildur says. "But, before you go, were you able to determine whether they all happened on one day, or were spread out over several days? We need to know that. Was it like one occurred on the first day of the week, another the 3rd or 4th, then a week went by... or, what, exactly? That you cannot tell the specific moment for each event is not terribly important. But the relative time in days of separation, and the like, it would be helpful to know. What is the spacing in time from one attack to another? Patterns help. What patterns do we have?" ========== Sense motive on Tarla: 20 Knowledge, Local: 11
Mitch - The Twins HP 65/65 AC 26/12/24 Wednesday March 2nd, 2022 9:03:10 AM
The Twins get up and mess with the map. They look for landmarks in the eastern city, draw lines between the attack to check for central location, measure distances involved to try to get a range the attacker travels, etc. They note any points of interest to visit after breakfast.
Honor Bright (Kathy) d20+8=12 ; Wednesday March 2nd, 2022 6:27:14 PM
"You've done quite a lot for us already," Honor assures Tarla. "Could you give us the locations of the other attacks? We can investigate them for ourselves, if we need to."
SteveM - Elron | AC 21 (19 if raging), HP 49/49, DR 1/-- Wednesday March 2nd, 2022 7:11:59 PM
Elron wonders if there is a high point in town that provides a decent view of the areas where the attacks occurred. Not necessarily of the sites themselves, but a decent altitude for things to be flying above those sites.
Home At Last (DM Cayzle | Zeoll) Wednesday March 2nd, 2022 10:35:38 PM
Zeoll sleeps in, tuckered out after the trip from home.
===== ===== ===== DM Post
Mundhi asks about the timing of the attacks. She is told that at least two days elapsed between them, usually three or four. The first attack took place just over three weks ago; the most recent, the day before yesterday.
The Twins look at the map for patterns. They would say that if the attacks have a center, it would be to the east, maybe a little south of east.
Regarding the sites, sorry, I did not make it clear. yesterday you visited all five sites.
Elron gets permission to travel to the top of the highest tower of the Castle proper. From there, he sees that to the immediate east there are a lot of trees and a few homesteads, and further east, the high mountains of the Scab.
Asimov and Irony | Hugh | AC 17/13/15 HP 53/53 | AC 20/11/19 HP 35/35 Hardness 2 Thursday March 3rd, 2022 1:12:34 AM
Asimov gathers Elron and The Twins and says to the Twins, "You figured out where the center of the attacks would be"
He then points to Elron and says, "You know the lay of the land after your view from the tallest tower. Between the two of you we should be able to figure out if there is a good place for a lair in the area of the center, so what landmark relatively matches the center? The dense forests or one of the homesteads?"
Mitch - The Twins HP 65/65 AC 26/12/24 Thursday March 3rd, 2022 5:55:33 AM
The Twins shrug. "The map is light on details." "The best way to find out is to go and look around."
Honor Bright (Kathy) Thursday March 3rd, 2022 6:16:51 PM
"I would guess the forest," Honor says. "But it is all guesswork at this point."
SteveM - Elron | AC 21 (19 if raging), HP 49/49, DR 1/-- Thursday March 3rd, 2022 7:54:03 PM "I think th' mountains are far enough away that anything'd've been noticed comin' from there." Elron thinks the whatevers probably live in the forest. But they should visit the homesteads first. Either to warn 'em or to see what's happened there.
Asimov and Irony | Hugh | AC 17/13/15 HP 53/53 | AC 20/11/19 HP 35/35 Hardness 2 Friday March 4th, 2022 2:16:40 AM
"To the forest then or the homesteads?" Asimov asks
Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant 10'5" atm) (Kim) AC 19 Touch 13 FF17 HP 58/58 Friday March 4th, 2022 11:45:29 AM
"I've heard of ugly, foul fowls who look like women from the mid-torso, and birds in areas below. They do something with their voices, but I don't know much more than that," Mundhi says. "Probably something else, though."
"Let's visit the trees and homesteads - maybe someone out there knows something more. Then, towards the Scab," suggests the singer. "I'm going to bring Sled with me," she says, referring to one of her two mules.
Honor Bright (Kathy) Friday March 4th, 2022 2:10:59 PM
"Although I think the forest is more likely," Honor says, "it'll probably be quicker and easier to check the homesteads. Maybe we should start with those."
Home At Last (DM Cayzle | Zeoll) Saturday March 5th, 2022 7:27:38 PM
Zeoll is happy to go exploring, maybe to find a clue.
===== ===== ===== DM Post
Breakfast over, you all head to the outskirts of town, to the east. A few miles out of the town, the landscape is covered in individual farms. Some are held by freeholders farming their own land, others by renters. Do you conduct any investagation here? Specifics please ... make checks, outline actions.
SteveM - Elron | AC 21 (19 if raging), HP 49/49, DR 1/-- Sunday March 6th, 2022 3:06:37 PM "We should, I say, should go to th' farms an' ask if they've seen anythin' odd, startin' with th' ones closest to th' attacks," Elron suggests. "Things like losin' animals, spooked animals, or unusual birds in th' sky."
Asimov and Irony | Hugh | AC 17/13/15 HP 53/53 | AC 20/11/19 HP 35/35 Hardness 2 d20+10=29 ; d20+12=27 ; Monday March 7th, 2022 1:16:22 AM
"Good Idea Elron. Let's do that."
Assuming they go with Elron's plan as they approach the first farm Asimov keeps his eyes open for anything out of place (Perception: 29)
He also takes a look around and tries to think if his knowledge of Geography might provide him with any further insight into how an ambush predator might operate in this region. (Know: Geography: 27)
Mitch - The Twins HP 65/65 AC 26/12/24 d20=7 ; Monday March 7th, 2022 6:17:05 AM
The Twins keep their eyes open for any signs or clues as they head to the farm, anything indicating the presence of a large bird or recent violence, but they aren't that great at it (7 perception)
Honor Bright (Kathy) d20+12=16 ; Monday March 7th, 2022 3:08:01 PM
For visiting the homesteads, Honor decides to play her role to the hilt. She gives her armor an extra polish before donning it. She deliberately leaves off her helmet so that her bright blond hair shines in the sun. She rides Justice, fresh from the Celestial Realm, looking like a prince of horses.
As they approach the first farm, Honor calls out, looking for the people who live there. She approaches them and says, "Good day. We have come to put a stop to the killings and disappearances. We could very much use your help. Tell me, have you seen or heard anything unusual in the past week or so?"
[Diplomacy 16, not including whatever bonus or penalty the DM wants to apply for looking like something out of Central Casting]
Home At Last (DM Cayzle | Zeoll) d20+15=35 ; Monday March 7th, 2022 11:26:42 PM
Zeoll tries to engage people and gather information from the inhabitants.
Gather Info / Diplomacy 35
===== ===== ===== DM Post
Elron suggests talking with the local farmers hereabouts.
The Twins look around, but notice nothing out of the ordinary.
Zeoll and Honor uncover no new info on the murders. The farmers that you meet seem unusually close-mouthed, however, unwilling to talk other than in monosyllables. Most of them seem to be hiding something. Zeoll overhears something about "don't talk about the Guild!"
Asimov notes a few paths headed deeper into the surrounding woods beyond the homesteads. Also, some of the trees over there are unusually large.
Asimov and Irony | Hugh | AC 17/13/15 HP 53/53 | AC 20/11/19 HP 35/35 Hardness 2 Monday March 7th, 2022 11:56:04 PM
Asimov says to the group, "Do trees normally grow this large around these parts?" and he points out the rather large trees.
"Also there are some paths headed deeper in the woods. Considering the farmers we've met have been less than helpful do we want to take one of the paths in there and see if we can't locate whatever is murdering folks and earn those investigator titles?"
Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant 10'5" atm) (Kim) AC 19 Touch 13 FF17 HP 58/58 d20+2=11 ; d20+7=14 ; d20+7=14 ; Tuesday March 8th, 2022 1:47:35 AM
[Crazy busy weekend with family & friends & a funeral & Monday... sorry for not posting until now.]
Mundhildur wants to speak with some children. Surely there must be at least some about, no? She asks what kinds of games they like to play. She asks if anyone is good at throwing rocks. Can they skip them on water? She asks how tall they think she is. If she finds a girl with braided hair, she compliments her on her braids, and shows off her own. If any parents seem upset with her attempts to talk with their kids, she asks them why they are afraid. "I'm not here to hurt any of you, don't be afraid. I'm gentle as a lamb, unless someone tries to harm the innocent." She asks if anyone needs help moving something big and heavy, and will offer to help if she can. She offers to share some salt, and cinnamon, and a bit of food, and she asks if any in the area are good at baking bread. "I'll pay good money for a few loaves of fresh bread," she promises.
Having, presumably, heard from Zeoll about the prohibition against speaking of the Guild, she tries to figure a way to work that into her conversation, but not straight out. She does ask about what sorts of birds are in the area, and if any of the children have seen any big ones. Have other adventurers been in this area recently?
She asks if anyone might be injured and in need of someone who has some healing abilities. If so, she offers to do what she might to help. ============== Knowledge, local: 11 Sense motive: 14 Healing, if called upon: 14 (unless someone can kick it up with aid another)
Mitch - The Twins HP 65/65 AC 26/12/24 Tuesday March 8th, 2022 4:32:14 AM
The Twins start consider if the attacks were not made by wild animals. They check their notes to see if there's any pattern on the types of people attacked.
SteveM - Elron | AC 21 (19 if raging), HP 49/49, DR 1/-- d20+10=13 ; Tuesday March 8th, 2022 6:25:04 PM
Elron doesn't trust what he hears folks saying, especially after Zeoll pulls them aside. Once he picks up them being unusually closed mouthed, he tries to figure out why.
(Sense motive = 13)
Honor Bright (Kathy) d20+8=27 ; Tuesday March 8th, 2022 10:05:30 PM
"I see some paths into the woods," Honor says to the farmers. She asks casually, "How often do people go in there?"
She listens to the answers, but she's more interested in their reaction to the question. [Sense Motive 27]
Home At Last (DM Cayzle | Zeoll) d20+11=18 ; Tuesday March 8th, 2022 11:37:12 PM
Zeoll takes a look at the paths. He tries to answer Asimov's question about the big trees. Know Nature 18.
===== ===== ===== DM Post
Kids love Mundhi. She has a way with them, and has some new friends toot sweet.
Asimov wonders about these big trees, and Zeoll reassures him that those are native to the area. He says that they are related to the famous Tree of Parting, though rumor has it that that tree was magically enhanced to be even bigger.
The Twins can't rule out that weapons were used on the victims.
Elron has a hunch that the farmers herabouts are afraid to say the wrong thing. The wrong thing that could be dangerous to say.
Honor asks a farmer working a field about the paths. "Oh yeah," the laborer says, leaning on a hoe. "Those are mostly getting overgrown, and peoiple don't use them any more. Used to be farms out that way."
Zeoll confirms that the paths are overgrown and not recently trod.
Asimov and Irony | Hugh | AC 17/13/15 HP 53/53 | AC 20/11/19 HP 35/35 Hardness 2 Wednesday March 9th, 2022 1:16:09 AM
Asimov says, "Sounds like we are taking the overgrown paths less traveled. If people rarely go that way seems like it would be a good hideout for our ambush predator and if it has a less feral aspect perhaps one of those abandoned farmsteads back that way would provide a home base for it. I'm all for being careful as we head down the less used path, trying to get to those abandoned steadings to look for more clues as to the wherabouts of our quarry."
Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant 10'5" atm) (Kim) AC 19 Touch 13 FF17 HP 58/58 Wednesday March 9th, 2022 2:47:26 AM
"I can keep a secret. Some should always be closely guarded. Sometimes, though, there is someone who also needs to know the secret - for making a place safer, for overcoming danger, she says, almost whispering to the children.
"Seems around here the secret is the Guild. Now, don't answer my questions yet. Just think about them," she counsels any who listen to her.
"Just who belongs to this Guild? What does the Guild do? What power do they hold? What control do they exert?
"Do they cause fear? Do they do good things, or bad things, or some sort of mixture of the two?
"What makes the people here fear to discuss the Guild? Perhaps, if the Guild is doing things that are unsavory, perhaps we could oppose them, and by opposing, redirect their energies, or even simply stop them outright."
"We are adventurers. Our purposes include discovering amazing things. And protecting innocent people. And fighting against evil. That is what we do. We just prevented a type of war in the Scab, and we stopped those who wanted to offer their enemies up in evil, bloody sacrifices." She shudders to think of it. "Glad we stopped that from happening any more."
She continues, "We found the special ingredients to help keep alive a sweet girl who was very sick. Because of the medicine, she is alive, and getting better. I think she likes puppets, too." Mundhi pulls out Lambkin, and the little lamb-puppet greets the children. "Lambkin?" she asks. "Can you tell the children more of what we have done?"
The puppet looks surprised. "Me? You want me to tell them?" The puppet claps her hands together. "Me? a little lamb?" She giggles. She asks the children if they want to hear more. If they say yes, she says, "Um, all right. Well, well --- we have solved riddles! We have Freed Prisoners who did not deserve to be in prison. And, uh, we have learned stories, and made some of our own. Zeoll, our liontaur friend, is filled with stories and songs. Honor, she is amazing, a brave warrior, and a true hero. You should see her sword! And she is very tall for a woman - almost as tall as Mundhildur!" she jokes, though Mundhi is more than a foot taller. "The twins - they are the prisoners we freed. They come from a place where they are very special - a brother and sister who act almost as one person, and it can be hard to tell them apart, especially when they wear those helmets. Asimov, he made a kind of a man out of metal, and he has nice long hair. Not the metal man, I mean Asimov has nice hair. Asimov is an inventor. That means he makes things - all sorts of things. Those things can heal, they can defend, they can throw fire, or help you do special things.
"And Elron tells very funny stories, and he is bold and brave and a true friend to me. He helps save our lives, often!"
"Thank you, Lambkin."
"You're welcome, Mundhildur. Can I go rest in my secret spot inside your bag?" the puppet asks.
"Of course. But first say goodbye for now to the children."
"Goodbye! Farewell, children! Maybe I'll see you later after I rest!" the puppet offers. Mundhi puts her back in her bag.
"No doubt you have several good and worthwhile people here, too," the Jotun offers. "Who show kindness. Who help others. Who are wise, or clever, or who work very hard. Is there someone here, do you suppose, who might be brave enough, and wise enough, to help us understand who or what the Guild is, so we can help you with whatever might need help. I told you earlier not to answer my questions. But I would like to ask you to answer this question. Who can tell us about the Guild?"
Mitch - The Twins HP 65/65 AC 26/12/24 Wednesday March 9th, 2022 6:04:10 AM
The Twins wonder if this guild is just going to turn out to be a local underground fistifuffs club.
Honor Bright (Kathy) d20+12=30 ; Wednesday March 9th, 2022 2:14:09 PM
"Farms?" Honor says. "How long ago was this? And what happened to them?"
[Diplomacy 30]
SteveM - Elron | AC 21 (19 if raging), HP 49/49, DR 1/-- d20+15=25 ; d20+8=18 ; Wednesday March 9th, 2022 8:08:11 PM "I grew up on a farm. Well, we called it th' Farm. And I was really only there part o' th' year, seein' how we travelled 'round like three months in four. But th' Farm was a good place to stop in between. We'd help plant, and when we come back we'd help harvest." Elron reminisces.
He looks at the paths and tries to see what he can tell about them, like perhaps if any are still occasionally used. (Perception = 25, Survival = 18)
Home At Last (DM Cayzle | Zeoll) d20=14 ; d20=20 ; Wednesday March 9th, 2022 9:42:20 PM
Zeoll helps Elron looking at the path the group is near at the moment. Aid another to help ... nat 14 should be good for a +2.
===== ===== ===== DM Post
[OOC: The DM feels compelled to make a clarification. We've abstracted things a bit too much. The party has visited five homesteads in the area. You are currently at the fifth one. There were kids at four. There were overgrown paths heading east in two, including this last one. Both paths were once wide enough for a horse and wagon, now not so much. You overheard someone mentioning "The Guild" at the fourth farm. Adults at all five have been close-mouthed and wary of talking to you strangers.]
Mundhi starts whispering to the four kids living at this house, but a mom gets wind of this and calls the kids into the house before Mundhi can really get going. (Mom rolled a nat 20.) Alas, poor puppet again fails to get a chance on stage!
The Twins ponder.
Honor talks to the granther of this farm, a sturdy human fellow of about 50. He tells a take of goblin raiders and a tragedy a few years back, leading to the abondoned homestead on thataways. He gets more cordial as Honor engages hm, and he says, giving some grandfatherly friendly advice, that there hasn't been anyone going out that way for a year or two. Really. He keeps a watch out. "I'm old," he says, "but my ears are still sharp. Nobody uses that road any more, nope, no, Miss."
Sense Motive DC20: Highlight to display spoiler: {You have a hunch that, despite his warming to Honor, there is much he is not saying. He is currently friendly toward Honor, so you can use the Diplomacy skill to roll to ask for a favor, with possible adjustments based on roleplay.}
Elron and Zeoll take a closer look. In fact, aside from a few deer, they see no sign that the road is in use, It is truly overgrown, and there are no tracks at all.
Asimov still seems to think it is worth a look.
Asimov and Irony | Hugh | AC 17/13/15 HP 53/53 | AC 20/11/19 HP 35/35 Hardness 2 d20+1=10 ; Thursday March 10th, 2022 12:03:38 AM
(Sense Motive: 10)
Asimov says, "So there is at least one abandoned farmstead beyond where we are if we were to follow the overgrown trail? If that is roughly the center of the area where the Twins plotted the attacks on a map doesn't it bear investigation? Worst case scenario it is a bust and we have to go back to the drawing board to figure out where to look next?"
Mitch - The Twins HP 65/65 AC 26/12/24 d20=8 ; d20=10 ; Thursday March 10th, 2022 7:06:04 AM
The Twins don't have any notion that the old man knows more (sense motive 8), but if someone else seems to get the hint they're willing to support their pitch (diplomacy 11 to aid another, +2 to their check). "People are dying good sir." "We just want to stop it." "And we can't do that if we don't have all the information we can." "We will share nothing you tell us with anyone else." "Unless absolutely necessary to stop the deaths."
Honor Bright (Kathy) d20+8=11 ; Thursday March 10th, 2022 2:16:16 PM
Honor nods to the farmer. "Still, it might be worth having a look. You said yourself there were goblins in the area; I'm sure they'd love nothing better than an abandoned farmstead to take over. Or something else my have moved it. We might as well check on it, since we're here."
[OOC: Honor failed the Sense Motive, but really does think the group should at least take a look at the abandoned farms to see if anything unpleasant has moved it.]
SteveM - Elron | AC 21 (19 if raging), HP 49/49, DR 1/-- d20+8=23 ; Thursday March 10th, 2022 7:45:45 PM
(Sense motive = 23)
Unfortunately, Elron has no diplomacy as he stage whispers, "Honor, he likes you -- ask nicely. There must be somethin' he can tell us that will help us find these deadly creatures without puttin' himself at risk. It's not like we're gonna stir up somethin' best un-stirred when they're already out there killin' people and takin' sheep."
Home At Last (DM Cayzle | Zeoll) d20+15=16 ; Thursday March 10th, 2022 11:43:21 PM
Zeoll walks with Elron back to where Honor is talking with the old farmer. He does not get the subtle interactions at work (Sense Motive 16), but if Honor continues sonversing, Zeoll will back her up.
"Sirr, Miss Honorr herrre has only the best of intentions, as do we all. I hope you will consider whatever she says."
Auto bestow +2 Aid Another bonus to any Diplomacy check.
===== ===== ===== DM Post
Asimov and Honor agree that the old farmstead may be worth a look. But the Twins, Elron, and Zeoll are encouraging Honor to beseech the old farmer ... you have a +6 on your Dip check if you want to ask him for a favor.
Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant 10'5" atm) (Kim) AC 19 Touch 13 FF17 HP 58/58 Friday March 11th, 2022 2:58:32 AM
Disappointed in herself for upsetting the children's mother, she heads away, wandering over to where she spotted the man-lion and man-rooster looking at a trail. She walks down it perhaps 100 feet, and pulls out her longspear to clear a few overhanging branches that cross the path.
Asimov and Irony | Hugh | AC 17/13/15 HP 53/53 | AC 20/11/19 HP 35/35 Hardness 2 Friday March 11th, 2022 4:05:55 AM
Asimov readies his magic detector for their journey along the overgrown path.
Mitch - The Twins HP 65/65 AC 26/12/24 Friday March 11th, 2022 7:13:00 AM
The Twins wait to see what they can find out. Or what Honor can.
SteveM - Elron | AC 21 (19 if raging), HP 49/49, DR 1/-- Friday March 11th, 2022 1:34:56 PM
Elron looks around at the homestead, taking note of these people's lifestyle. If he hadn't found the monastery he might still be living a nomadic version of their life. . . But with more jokes.
He looks at the mom who chastised Mundhildur and says, "Knock, knock. . ."
Honor Bright (Kathy) d20+18=32 ; Friday March 11th, 2022 3:03:51 PM
Honor gives it one last try with the farmer.
"I know that things can be difficult out here," she says. "And I know you just want to take care of your farm and your family and your neighbors and not get involved in anything bigger. But I'm sure you've realized by now that this situation isn't going to get any better until people like me and my friends get involved. And we're here, now, ready to put a stop to the killings and the thefts. We are your weapons. We just need you to point us in the right direction."
[Diplomacy 32, including the +6]
Home At Last (DM Cayzle | Zeoll) Saturday March 12th, 2022 12:47:25 PM
Zeoll listens to whatever the farmer might say.
He also casts a Message spell to talk with Mundhi. "Hey, be nice to those plants please. And let the drruid go firrst thrrough the overrgrrowth."
===== ===== ===== DM Post
Mundhi is eager to be off.
Asimov is ready to detect magic along the way.
Elron offers a joke at the door to the house. The mom calls out, "WHO'S THERE?" ... but she sounds a bit frightened, amd may not realize that a joke is intended.
Zeoll and the Twins await the results of Honor's talking with the farmer.
Honor beseeches the old man, and he opens up.
"Well now, it's been a while, so it's probably okay to say. But you didn't hear it from me."
"Before the Castle folk cracked down on it, we had a lively Thieves' Guild hereabouts. But some adventurers caught or killed nearly all of them. Back before that, they had a hideout east of here in the woods. They used to run the homestead as a place for spouses and kids and old folks. But they all up and moved after the Guild was broke, and nobody's been out that way in a long time. I took a look two years ago, but everything worth anything was stripped."
"Anyway, that hideout was a big secret, and the adventurers never got there. Maybe this new murder fella is holed up in it. I never been past the homestead, me, so don't rightly know where it was. If your goinf after the murderer, well bless you, and keep me and mine out of it, if you please."
Honor, please accept a hero point.
Mitch - The Twins HP 65/65 AC 26/12/24 Sunday March 13th, 2022 9:27:59 AM "Thank you sir." "You've been very helpful." "We'll check there and see."
SteveM - Elron | AC 21 (19 if raging), HP 49/49, DR 1/-- Sunday March 13th, 2022 3:02:07 PM
Elron notices the woman seems a bit excitable and has to choose -- continue with the joke, or give her an out. Then again, everyone loves a good joke. . . "Cows go," he says, maintaining eye contact with the woman.
Apart from finishing the joke, he's ready to head down the disused path when it occurs to him, "Say, is there a path that leads to this hideout homestead place that don't go right past your place?".
Asimov and Irony | Hugh | AC 17/13/15 HP 53/53 | AC 20/11/19 HP 35/35 Hardness 2 d20+10=17 ; d20+14=22 ; d20+14=23 ; Monday March 14th, 2022 12:13:03 AM
Asimov says, "The old Thieve's Guild place sounds promising. If we can find it we should definitely investigate it."
He uses his eyes and magic detector as they move down the path.
Perception: 17 Know[Arcana]: 22 Spellcraft: 23
Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant 10'5" atm) (Kim) AC 19 Touch 13 FF17 HP 58/58 Monday March 14th, 2022 3:52:10 AM
"I've walked through overgrown paths before, Zeoll," Mundhildur responds. "But, sure, I'll wait a bit."
Honor Bright (Kathy) Monday March 14th, 2022 5:26:47 PM
"Thank you, sir. I will not divulge who gave us this information," Honor says.
"We should check out the homestead first," she tells her companions. "There may be something there to point us in the right direction."
To Zeoll, she says, "I'm sure Mundhildur will be careful of the plants and things, but I'm afraid Justice and I will not. Horses, you know. But don't worry; we'll go last."
Asimov and Irony | Hugh | AC 17/13/15 HP 53/53 | AC 20/11/19 HP 35/35 Hardness 2 Monday March 14th, 2022 11:48:12 PM
Asimov says, "Irony can climb if we need it. I hope one day to be able to make him fly."
Home At Last (DM Cayzle | Zeoll) Monday March 14th, 2022 11:58:49 PM
Zeoll is glad that there seems to be a way forward that is not just aimless. "Come my frriends. I have a good feeling about this." He leads the party forward.
===== ===== ===== DM Post
Elron's joke does not exactly land, seeing as the woman did not realize that there even was a knock knock joke. Alas, can't win them all.
On the way out, the farmer tells Elron he thinks there's another path several miles off. Probably the other one you saw.
The Twins thank the farmer and say that the party will investigate.
Asimov detects for magic, but reveals none.
Mundhi and Zeoll lead the way. Honor takes rearguard.
You travel a couple miles and find your way to the homestead. The going is a bit rough, and it looks like no one has been here for a few years. There is a large house, a barn, a well, and the remains of a farm, now gone to meadow.
Mitch - The Twins HP 65/65 AC 26/12/24 d20=6 ; Tuesday March 15th, 2022 7:20:35 AM
The Twins advise everyone to stay together just in case they do meet whatever is doing the killings. They try to help search but aren't effective (perception 6)
Honor Bright (Kathy) d20+3=12 ; d20+8=12 ; Tuesday March 15th, 2022 10:13:33 PM
Honor also looks around, though she knows she's not very good at it. [Perception 12]
Justice sniffs the air, looking for scents that are out of place. [Perception 12, scent ability]
SteveM - Elron | AC 21 (19 if raging), HP 49/49, DR 1/-- Tuesday March 15th, 2022 10:22:53 PM
Elron falls in, disappointed at not being able to deliver the punch line.
Abandoned Farm
Home At Last (DM Cayzle | Zeoll) d20+12=21 ; Tuesday March 15th, 2022 10:39:24 PM
Zeoll takes a look around the farm. The druid says a prayer and tries to tell what was grown here. Know Nature 21.
===== ===== ===== DM Post
You are at an abandoned farm. There is a large house, a barn, a well, and the remains of a farm, now gone to meadow.
The Twins work hard to herd this collection of cats so there are no stragglers. Too much work to allow much time to look around too.
Elron stays with the group, lost in thought.
Honor sees that the wooden rail fence that circles the barn shows signs of recent repair. some of the wood rails are newer. There's no gate in the fence.
Zeoll determines that most of the crop here was sorghum. And sheep, too. In fact, there are still a few sheep still living, in the barn and the field out back. But there is no shepherd keeping watch by day, at least.
SteveM - Elron | AC 21 (19 if raging), HP 49/49, DR 1/-- Tuesday March 15th, 2022 10:55:03 PM "So either th' killer birds are not attackin' sheep over here," Elron observes, "or th' sheep are protected and we just don't see th' shepherd." Elron looks at how closely the forest has encroached on the homestead, wondering if that would provide the sheep with some cover.
Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant 10'5" atm) (Kim) AC 19 Touch 13 FF17 HP 58/58 d20+7=18 ; Tuesday March 15th, 2022 11:52:38 PM
The tall one looks about. She checks to see if there are signs of anyone or thing wandering about here in addition to sheep. No dog has barked. She walks to the well, and looks down. If she cannot see the bottom, she finds a few pebbles and small stones. Beginning with a pebble, she works her way up in size until she can guage the depth to what lies below. She has her longspear in hand should she need to fend off anything rising from below.
If all seems fine with the well, and if a bucket or pump has been provided, she checks to see if she can draw water. If so, she takes a small taste. If she senses anything untoward, Mundhi immediately spits it out on the ground. If it tastes good, she tells the others, and gives some for her mule, Sled, to drink.
If no bucket or pump is already at hand, she takes a bucket off of Sled's pack saddle, ties it to rope, and accomplishes the same ends. ============= Perception: 18
Asimov and Irony | Hugh | AC 17/13/15 HP 53/53 | AC 20/11/19 HP 35/35 Hardness 2 Wednesday March 16th, 2022 1:17:51 AM
Asimov says, "I would hate to do this to innocent animals but if that predator really is based out of the area around here do you think we could use some sheep as bait to lure it into attacking? I mean I'm not saying we do this right away but if we find ourselves stumped as to what to do next could that be a potential plan?"
Mitch - The Twins HP 65/65 AC 26/12/24 Wednesday March 16th, 2022 8:13:52 AM
The Twins are eager to search inside but take their own advice and wait for everyone to be ready.
Honor Bright (Kathy) Wednesday March 16th, 2022 6:13:46 PM
"I'm guessing these sheep were stolen from the farms," Honor says. "And somebody has mended this fence. Recently. So, is the person attempting to farm this land the same as the person committing the murders? Or are we looking at two different people?"
Home At Last (DM Cayzle | Zeoll) Wednesday March 16th, 2022 9:49:50 PM
Zeoll looks around and says, "I like this place. Homey. A taurr could make a living of it herre."
===== ===== ===== DM Post
Elron wonders if the forest would offer cover to the sheep from aerial predators. But no, none at all, given the state of the fence.
Elron only, if you make a Perception check vs DC20, then Please Highlight to display spoiler: {You see a very faint track in the woods, leading further east.}
Mundhi discovers a few chickens wandering around the place. That's it. The well is fine, and there is a trough that would serve to water the sheep.
Asimov suggests using the sheep as bait.
The Twins wait for everybody to be ready, then you all search inside. There is nothing of value. Even the furniture has been taken. This place was cleared out months or maybe years ago. Zeoll seems to like it, though.
Honor poses the foundational question: Is it the murderer who is keeping these sheep, or some other person.
Asimov and Irony | Hugh | AC 17/13/15 HP 53/53 | AC 20/11/19 HP 35/35 Hardness 2 Wednesday March 16th, 2022 10:24:53 PM
Asimov says, "If someone is minding the sheep whether it be the murderer or some other squatter mayhap we do try to herd them ourselves to try out their minder if they have one?"
SteveM - Elron | AC 21 (19 if raging), HP 49/49, DR 1/-- d20+15=19 ; Thursday March 17th, 2022 7:55:15 AM
(Perception = 19)
Elron suggests that since no one seems to be here, maybe they can find some sign of the person coming and going.
Mitch - The Twins HP 65/65 AC 26/12/24 d20=3 ; Thursday March 17th, 2022 8:08:19 AM
The Twins try to assist in Elron's search but aren't at all helpful (3 to aid another)
Honor Bright (Kathy) Thursday March 17th, 2022 10:31:39 PM
"Maybe we should wait a while," Honor says, "and see if whoever is using this farmstead comes back."
Home At Last (DM Cayzle | Zeoll) Friday March 18th, 2022 12:00:04 AM
Zeoll is patient, and as a general rule, reminds the party that he will not suggest ways to resolve the issue, but that his friends, who know well his capabilities, can make suggestions to him.
===== ===== ===== DM Post
Asimov notes that there is no gate in the newly repaired fence.
Elron and the Twins look for signs of occupation, but there are none outside the sheep pen. No footprints in or out, no indication that anyone -- sheep or man -- has been walking anywhere.
Oh, I say, except that the chicken coop has been visited, looks like at a glance. [Kudos to Elron (and the Twins) for making a check. Rolling skills is a good way for the DM to advance the narrative, as you DMs should well know.]
Honor suggests just waiting. Openly or as an Ambush?
Asimov and Irony | Hugh | AC 17/13/15 HP 53/53 | AC 20/11/19 HP 35/35 Hardness 2 Friday March 18th, 2022 2:29:15 AM
Asimov asks the others, "How likely is it that whoever built the pen and was active around the chicken coop is our suspect? If we think this person is a suspect may we be better served waiting for them in ambush instead of out in the open?"
Mitch - The Twins HP 65/65 AC 26/12/24 Friday March 18th, 2022 10:42:11 AM
The Twins can't remember for certain what they were told before. "Clarification:" "Was this building the thieves guild?" "Or was this just a place that supported them and was shut down?"
Honor Bright (Kathy) Friday March 18th, 2022 3:39:58 PM
"This was where the Thieves' Guild housed and supported their dependents," Honor says. "So the people here benefited from the Guild's illegal activities, but weren't involved themselves."
She adds, "Justice and I aren't very good at ambushes; I'd prefer to wait in the open."
SteveM - Elron | AC 21 (19 if raging), HP 49/49, DR 1/-- Friday March 18th, 2022 6:44:11 PM "A few sheep and some chickens don't sound like a thieves guild. They sound like a one or maybe a few people makin' th' best of what they could find." Overall, Elron doesn't think it's necessary to hide. Might be fun, though.
Home At Last (DM Cayzle | Zeoll) Saturday March 19th, 2022 11:35:08 AM
The party debates an ambush.
It seems that Honor's supposition is most likely correct. This was a place that supported the rogues. But now it is no longer under cultivation, most everything is gone to seed, and the few sheep and chickens are but maybe a tenth of what this place could support.
Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant 10'5" atm) (Kim) AC 19 Touch 13 FF17 HP 58/58 Saturday March 19th, 2022 2:43:14 PM
[Huh. Thought I had posted for Mundhi Friday morning...]
"Yes, let's stay for the evening. If no one shows by the morning, well, it seems a nice place to camp. Now that we've been tramping all over the place, it may be hard to disguise that we have been here. What's the best place? Woods? Barn? House? Elsewhere?"
Mundhildur helps set up camp wherever the group decides. If they don't decide, she'll go for the woods - but not near the path by which they entered.
Mitch - The Twins HP 65/65 AC 26/12/24 Sunday March 20th, 2022 8:32:21 AM
The Twins agree to wait and suggest the barn as anyone coming here would likely go to the house. They also suspect the culprit will be at the actual thieves guild location and the sheep may be unrelated.
SteveM - Elron | AC 21 (19 if raging), HP 49/49, DR 1/-- Sunday March 20th, 2022 10:40:55 PM If this was a thieves guild house, I bet it has lots of secret passages and hidey holes. If we check th' place out good, we might be able t' wait in th' house with no problem. 'Course th' barn might have 'em, too.
Asimov and Irony | Hugh | AC 17/13/15 HP 53/53 | AC 20/11/19 HP 35/35 Hardness 2 d20+10=11 ; Monday March 21st, 2022 12:05:39 AM
Asimov says to Elron, "They probably also might have trapped said hidey holes and passages. Best let me take a look around the place. Maybe I can spot and disable some traps before we get into trouble."
Perception: 11 or 14 vs Mechanical Traps
Honor Bright (Kathy) Monday March 21st, 2022 2:42:56 PM
Honor agrees to camp in the barn. She would love to help with the search for secret doors and traps, but she knows she's not very good at that kind of thing.
Home At Last (DM Cayzle | Zeoll) Monday March 21st, 2022 11:03:59 PM
There are no problems setting up a camp in the barn. No secret doors or traps are found.
Around dawn the next day, you hear a fluttering sound and a rush of air. Sheeps bleat. You have no line of sight to what is going on. Everyone wakes, but someone will have to stick their neck out to find out what is going on.
Asimov and Irony | Hugh | AC 17/13/15 HP 53/53 | AC 20/11/19 HP 35/35 Hardness 2 d20+10=27 ; Tuesday March 22nd, 2022 2:11:15 AM
(Perception: 27)
Asimov takes a peek to see what is going on
Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant 10'5" atm) (Kim) AC 19 Touch 13 FF17 HP 58/58 Tuesday March 22nd, 2022 3:33:46 AM
And Mundhildur heads out, longspear in hand, working her way over to where the wind of the wings can be heard, and the stress of the sheep can be heard.
Mitch - The Twins HP 65/65 AC 26/12/24 Tuesday March 22nd, 2022 7:28:22 AM
The Twins draw their bow and make ready to attack anything that charges their comrades.
SteveM - Elron | AC 21 (19 if raging), HP 49/49, DR 1/-- Tuesday March 22nd, 2022 10:39:14 AM
Elron wants a gander at whatever the thing is, and heads outside.
Honor Bright (Kathy) Tuesday March 22nd, 2022 9:32:55 PM
Honor begins putting on her armor.
Home At Last (DM Cayzle | Zeoll) Tuesday March 22nd, 2022 11:49:18 PM
Asimov peeks, and Mundhi and Elron step out. The rest of the party remains out of line of sight.
Near the chicken coop, a young harpy sees Elron and Mundhi, and immediately launches back into the air and flies off. After her move, she is 140 ft from Elron and Mundhi.
Asimov and Irony | Hugh | AC 17/13/15 HP 53/53 | AC 20/11/19 HP 35/35 Hardness 2 d20+10=16 ; Wednesday March 23rd, 2022 1:26:03 AM
(Perception: 16)
Does the harpy fit the bill of the murderer? I mean it can fly but does it look like it has claws?
Asimov joins Munhildur and Elron outside he says, "If only I was a better tinkerer I could make Irony fly. Alas he can only climb."
"Should I fire wrist rockets at the fleeing creature?" He asks Munhildur and Elron
Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant 10'5" atm) (Kim) AC 19 Touch 13 FF17 HP 58/58 d20+3=13 ; 4d6+6=20 ; Wednesday March 23rd, 2022 4:04:35 AM
"If you think you can hit her, sure, fire, Asimov," she replies.
Mundhildur keeps her bag with rocks at her hip, so takes one and hurls it toward the fleeing harpy. [1d20+6+1-2-2=13] If the harpy is not looking back at her, then she strikes it for 4d6+6=20 hp damage. If she is observing over her shoulder, and gets dodging and dex bonuses, then the stone comes near, but does not quite strike her.
"Harpies tend to be filthy, I've heard," Mundhi comments to Asimov and Elron. "Let's watch which direction she goes until we can no longer see her."
Mitch - The Twins HP 65/65 AC 26/12/24 Wednesday March 23rd, 2022 7:24:28 AM
The Twins do not pull out their bow to shoot the fleeing creature. "We have no true evidence of wrongdoing." "Shooting them out of the air risks killing them." they point out.
Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant 10'5" atm) (Kim) AC 19 Touch 13 FF17 HP 58/58 Wednesday March 23rd, 2022 2:00:34 PM
"Harpies are wrongdoing," Mundhi replies to the twins. [No bias there ;-)]
Honor Bright (Kathy) Wednesday March 23rd, 2022 2:01:12 PM
Honor is still putting on her armor.
SteveM - Elron | AC 21 (19 if raging), HP 49/49, DR 1/-- d20+15=23 ; d20+8=24 ; Wednesday March 23rd, 2022 9:26:11 PM
As far off as the creature is, Elron makes no move to attack or close with it. If they've been here before, they'll have perched somewhere. Look for signs on fences, limbs, even th' roof." Elron isn't sure harpies have been here before, but wants to know if they have. He looks the place over again now that he has a better idea what to look for.
(Perception = 23; survival = 24)
Home At Last (DM Cayzle | Zeoll) Wednesday March 23rd, 2022 10:02:08 PM
Zeoll prefers not to attack with lethal force a creature, probably but not certainly evil, if it is flying away.
===== ===== ===== DM Post
Mundhi tries to wing the harpy but misses.
Asimov ponders shooting, but the moment is lost. He looks at the claws.
Zeoll and the Twins are not ready to commit to naked force.
Honor finishes putting on armor.
Elron and Asimov look around, now that they have an idea of what to seek. Sure enough, again, there are no footsteps anywhere. No gate in the sheep pen. That makes sense now. And sure enough, you see claw scores on the railings of the pen. Like the marks on the branches at the crime scenes.
Asimov and Irony | Hugh | AC 17/13/15 HP 53/53 | AC 20/11/19 HP 35/35 Hardness 2 Thursday March 24th, 2022 3:07:19 AM
Asimov says, "Well I would say at least by eyeballing it would appear that the murderer is most likely a harpy. Whether it was the one we allowed to fly away just now, I am not sure of."
He continues "With that being said, how do you track something that can fly?"
Mitch - The Twins HP 65/65 AC 26/12/24 Thursday March 24th, 2022 7:59:26 AM "We need a net." "Or some other binding." "Sneak up on it and keep it from flying off."
SteveM - Elron | AC 21 (19 if raging), HP 49/49, DR 1/-- Thursday March 24th, 2022 8:53:14 PM "Well, they'll know we was stayin' in th' barn now. Maybe they think of it as their barn, an' maybe they think o' this homestead as theirs. If we hang tight, they could come ask us t' leave or try t' drive us off. If we move camp, they'll probably be less upset, but I'm guessin' the barn's more defensible than a spot in th' woods. But I bet it'll be more than one of'em."
Honor Bright (Kathy) Thursday March 24th, 2022 10:51:23 PM
"I hope you're right," Honor tells Elron. "If they focus on us, they aren't out marauding through the countryside. It doesn't feel right, though, just sitting around waiting for them to do something."
Home At Last (DM Cayzle | Zeoll) Thursday March 24th, 2022 11:17:00 PM
Zeoll sighs at the news that it is harpies that the party faces.
"Alas, my frriends, as a Grreensingerr, my music does not affect harrpies, norr prrotects against them, since they arre unnaturral monsterrs."
===== ===== ===== DM Post
Asimov wonders how to track a flier.
The Twins suggest using a net or trap.
Elron considers the pros and cons of defense.
Honor does not want to just sit around while the enemy is up to who-knows-what mayhem.
[OOC: My friends, let your planning take place, and when you are ready, the next scene will start.]
Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant 10'5" atm) (Kim) AC 19 Touch 13 FF17 HP 58/58 Friday March 25th, 2022 2:09:56 AM
Marking which way the harpy fled, Mundhildur compares that with the way back to the outskirts of town. She sketches a rough map on the ground. "Town. Outskirts. Trail here. This farm. And that's the way the harpy flew away." She also marks north on the dirt-sketched map.
"We can follow the harpy. Or, we can take the sheep to someone who can care for them, and warn them of the harpy, like the people on the outskirts we were last with. If we do that, we can report back to the town, let them know what we saw, give them some ideas on how to defend, to keep a watch out, and have archers, spear- and stick- and rock-throwers to be available. Let them pass that information on to other farms round about.
"Let's take the sheep back to the folks we were just with. And counsel them to make spears, and if they have bows and arrows, to have them at the ready. And tell them of the harpies. Let them know to beware of being out in the open without someone keeping watch in the skies."
"We also could set some bait, and set a trap. What other ideas do we have? And, before we go anywhere else, let's spend an hour or two here, and see what this place can tell us about who used to live here, or whatever it can teach us."
Asimov and Irony | Hugh | AC 17/13/15 HP 53/53 | AC 20/11/19 HP 35/35 Hardness 2 Friday March 25th, 2022 3:24:13 AM
Asimov says, "Maybe we could rig some sort of Harpy trap near a tree? I could probably improvise something using some rope or chain maybe a type of snare? As for ranged options, wrist rockets, flamethrower, and fire handling gloves might be my best options. I haven't really designed a web shooter or anything."
Mitch - The Twins HP 65/65 AC 26/12/24 Friday March 25th, 2022 8:08:30 AM
The Twins don't like the idea of taking the sheep elsewhere. "The harpy, or harpies, have proven capable of killing civilians. " "We should not involve any but ourselves until we think the risk is over." "A tree trap sounds good."
Honor Bright (Kathy) Friday March 25th, 2022 4:19:00 PM
"The Twins have a point," Honor says. "What if the harpies decide that the people came and took the sheep back? That could mean more trouble than they can handle. I think we should figure out how to take on the harpies.
"That farmer said something about a Thieves' Guild hideout near here, but he didn't know exactly where it was. Maybe we could look for some kind of clue or trail?"
SteveM - Elron | AC 21 (19 if raging), HP 49/49, DR 1/-- Friday March 25th, 2022 7:57:04 PM
Elron still thinks the harpies will come if they just stay here. Not being able to guess what force they would come in, that worries him.
"If they're settin' this place up for keepin' some stock, we gotta ask ourselves how they'll react if we just leave. Have we poisoned th' well, as it were, by findin' this place?" Elron's concern is the harpies might not yet be committed to using this as their barnyard, in which case they could move on.
Home At Last (DM Cayzle | Zeoll) Friday March 25th, 2022 9:34:22 PM
The party debates, and several great ideas are discussed.
SteveM - Elron | AC 21 (19 if raging), HP 49/49, DR 1/-- Sunday March 27th, 2022 10:08:36 PM "I got no skill at makin' a tree trap, but I can haul stuff for someone who does." Elron's also ready to circle the place looking for other trails at Honor's suggestion.
Asimov and Irony | Hugh | AC 17/13/15 HP 53/53 | AC 20/11/19 HP 35/35 Hardness 2 Monday March 28th, 2022 12:17:36 AM
Asimov says, "I got the skills at trap making which is why I suggested it, just tell me where you think would be an appropriate place to set it to catch the Harpy and we can make it happen."
Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant 10'5" atm) (Kim) AC 19 Touch 13 FF17 HP 58/58 Monday March 28th, 2022 2:40:10 PM
"The benefit of catching a harpy is... Maybe one of us could talk with it? If she speaks Common." Mundhildru adds, "I have heard they are filthy and stinky and rank and nasty."
"If you need help pulling down the tips of small trees or saplings, I'll help," she offers.
Honor Bright (Kathy) Monday March 28th, 2022 8:10:34 PM
"Well, we saw where that one harpy decided to perch," Honor says. "Maybe put a trap there?"
Home At Last (DM Cayzle | Zeoll) Monday March 28th, 2022 11:59:18 PM
Zeoll offers to help with trap building via Inspire Competence.
==== ==== ==== DM Post
You look over some likely places. From the scoring of claw-marks on railings, you see that the harpies land there almost exclusively. There's no sign that they go in the house. What kind of trap would you try to make?
Asimov and Irony | Hugh | AC 17/13/15 HP 53/53 | AC 20/11/19 HP 35/35 Hardness 2 d20+17=33 ; Tuesday March 29th, 2022 1:28:45 AM
(OOC: I don't see anything on the trap page like I'm looking for. I don't want to kill the harpy but capture it so I was thinking something along the lines of a mechanical snare trap where the loop would be where the harpy lands trying to entangle one of its legs.)
Craft Trap - 33 + whatever inspires confidence does
Asimov tries to craft some sort of mechanical snare trap on the railing where the harpy likes to land hoping to setup the loop around where the claws land and entrap one of its legs. He doesn't want to hurt it only capture it.
Mitch - The Twins HP 65/65 AC 26/12/24 Tuesday March 29th, 2022 7:17:59 AM
The Twins watch and wait.
SteveM - Elron | AC 21 (19 if raging), HP 49/49, DR 1/-- Tuesday March 29th, 2022 10:23:28 PM
Elron suggests a deadfall, since the railing could be thought of as a sort of log. Not that he knows how to make one, but that he knows they're made of logs. After all, if they wanted to net the creatures somehow, they'd need a net -- and they've clearly got a railing.
Honor Bright (Kathy) Tuesday March 29th, 2022 10:59:18 PM
"If we're making a trap, we might want to bait it with something," Honor says. "After all, there's no guarantee that a harpy will perch on that specific part of the rail."
She rummages though her pack. "I don't have any jewelry, but--" she pulls out a potion. "Maybe this would work? Put it on the ground near the fence? What do we think?"
Home At Last (DM Cayzle | Zeoll) Tuesday March 29th, 2022 11:40:44 PM
Zeoll uses his bard power and a guidance cantrip to boost the craft check from 33 to 36.
====== ===== ====== DM Post
Honor has an answer to the question of how to attract a harpy to a specific location: BAIT!
Elron has a good suggestion.
The Twins watch.
Presumably you settle in to watch and wait.
Please prep spells, decide what weapon you have in hand, and be ready.
When they come, the harpies are cautious, flying in high and circling in.
If you are hiding, make a Stealth check. If you are watching, make a Perception check. What are you doing to prepare.
A trap is planned: to catch the harpy with a wire around a talon, then the railing collapsing and bring it down for capture. Asimov sets it up.
Asimov and Irony | Hugh | AC 17/13/15 HP 53/53 | AC 20/11/19 HP 35/35 Hardness 2 d20+6=23 ; d20+10=17 ; Wednesday March 30th, 2022 12:17:14 AM
Asimov sends Irony back inside seeing as how the clanking machine isn't really known for stealth.
He then decides his wrist rocket may be the best tool for the job if they end up fighting harpies.
He tries to get into position where he can stealthily observe the railing (Stealth: 23; Perception: 17)
Mitch - The Twins HP 65/65 AC 26/12/24 d20=8 ; Wednesday March 30th, 2022 6:29:06 AM
The Twins have little skill in stealth so go into the barn and sit in there making no noise (If a stealth check is needed anyway then 5)
SteveM - Elron | AC 21 (19 if raging), HP 49/49, DR 1/-- d20+10=17 ; Wednesday March 30th, 2022 6:16:28 PM
(Stealth = 25 in the DMboard, but only 17 here. . . sad)
Elron hides about fifty feet away from the rail if he can, further if he must.
Asimov and Irony | Hugh | AC 17/13/15 HP 53/53 | AC 20/11/19 HP 35/35 Hardness 2 Wednesday March 30th, 2022 8:43:07 PM
Asimov waits (OOC: I know I'm posting earlier than usual)
Honor Bright (Kathy) d20+3=15 ; Wednesday March 30th, 2022 9:52:37 PM
Honor isn't very good at hiding or watching, but she does her best to conceal herself in the old farmhouse and watch for harpies. [Perception 15]
Home At Last (DM Cayzle | Zeoll) Wednesday March 30th, 2022 11:51:08 PM
Zeoll takes a turn in the barn too. "A big guy like me is easy to spot, especially frrom above." he says. But he finds a peep hole from which to spy on the proceedings. Camel is with him.
===== ===== ===== DM Post
The DM posits that the trap on the fence rail-post is about 50 feet from the barn door, which is ajar, as it was when you found it. Asimov and Elron are hid right between the two, 25 ft from the barn, 25 ft from the trap.
Let's get creative and say that Asimov is hiding behind a watering trough, and Elron is hidden under a bush.
At length, you hear the swoop of wings. Three harpies fly in from the east, circling the farm. They are about 100 ft up and they survey the area.
At a distance of 100 ft, per the rules, they have a -10 on perception due to distance. They do not seem to have seen you.
Any actions? Or remain hidden? Elron and Asimov would likely reveal themselves if they cast or moved or spoke, but those in the barn figure they could cast a spell or two if they wanted. Say. And probably go undetected. Probably.
Mitch - The Twins HP 65/65 AC 26/12/24 Thursday March 31st, 2022 7:30:42 AM
The Twins quietly play some sort of game together as they wait. Something simple that only needs hands like Rock Paper Scissors but not that specifically, something from their homeland.
SteveM - Elron | AC 21 (19 if raging), HP 49/49, DR 1/-- Thursday March 31st, 2022 7:30:04 PM
Elron remains hidden. The time to burst out isn't until after the trap has sprung.
Honor Bright (Kathy) Thursday March 31st, 2022 10:36:23 PM
Honor loves to be the first to charge into battle, but that can't happen until there's actually a battle. She stays where she is.
Asimov and Irony | Hugh | AC 17/13/15 HP 53/53 | AC 20/11/19 HP 35/35 Hardness 2 d20+10=24 ; Friday April 1st, 2022 2:27:00 AM
Asimov waits under the trough for now not breaking cover continuing to observe the harpies.
Perception 24
Home At Last (DM Cayzle | Zeoll) d20=18 ; Friday April 1st, 2022 5:05:45 PM
The harpies circle, and one of them does indeed land in the right spot. The wire lashes out ... and the harpy rolls a save with a natural 18!
It cries out but evades the trap!
"Hey! I almost got snagged in a trap!" the harpy says.
Another harpy calls out, "This is bad! We gotta tell the boss!"
The harpies circle one more time, then fly away eastwards.
SteveM - Elron | AC 21 (19 if raging), HP 49/49, DR 1/-- Friday April 1st, 2022 8:19:47 PM
Elron stays still until the harpies are gone, marking the direction they went. "Sounds like they're to th' east. Should we look in that direction?" He has realizes this probably means tangling with the harpies and the boss at the same time, but is pretty sure it's nothing they can't handle.
Honor Bright (Kathy) Friday April 1st, 2022 10:47:27 PM
"Yes, let us head east," Honor says. "With any luck, there will be some hints along the way as to where to find them."
Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant 10'5" atm) (Kim) AC 19 Touch 13 FF17 HP 58/58 Sunday April 3rd, 2022 2:09:07 AM
[apologies to all - was slammed at work, and prepping to travel, then traveling. Getting settled in - should be able to join in more frequently for a bit]
"I should have nailed her with a rock," Mundhi says. "I didn't really think this whole thing through very well," taking responsibility for her lack of offering much in the way of planning.
She shrugs. "East, then." She takes Sled out of the barn, packs up, and is ready to move out when the others are.
Mitch - The Twins HP 65/65 AC 26/12/24 Sunday April 3rd, 2022 8:01:01 PM
The Twins shrug. "The snare was a good plan." "Just bad luck." "It happens."
Asimov and Irony | Hugh | AC 17/13/15 HP 53/53 | AC 20/11/19 HP 35/35 Hardness 2 Sunday April 3rd, 2022 10:25:19 PM
Asimov says, "Oh Well it happens. Apparently if their boss is in the east then I think that is where we want to be. The only question is where in the east is this boss?"
Asimov and Irony | Hugh | AC 17/13/15 HP 53/53 | AC 20/11/19 HP 35/35 Hardness 2 Monday April 4th, 2022 10:51:24 PM
Asimov waits to figure out where they are going.
Home At Last (DM Cayzle | Zeoll) Monday April 4th, 2022 11:49:35 PM
As you move into the woods, you note that among the regular trees, you see a number that are truly giants.
Know Geography DC13: Highlight to display spoiler: {You are reminded of the great and famous Tree of Parting on the southeast edge of the Culverwood}
You quickly lose any sign of a path and are moving through the forest primeval. How will you decide where to go? ======== [Kim-spelling edit]
Mitch - The Twins HP 65/65 AC 26/12/24 Tuesday April 5th, 2022 7:18:53 AM
The Twins hope someone else has spell or skill to navigate for the group.
Honor Bright (Kathy) Tuesday April 5th, 2022 1:13:41 PM
Honor can use her Detect Evil ability to scan for nearby harpies, but other than that, she's not going to be much help.
SteveM - Elron | AC 21 (19 if raging), HP 49/49, DR 1/-- Tuesday April 5th, 2022 7:36:03 PM "Well, east is this way," Elron points out. He's a bit surprised that his (usually smarter) friends are thrown off by something as simple as knowing which direction is which in a forest.
Trained in the survival skill.
Home At Last (DM Cayzle | Zeoll) Tuesday April 5th, 2022 8:55:53 PM
Zeoll is happy to help Elron find the way. "I am a drruid, afterr all."
===== ===== =====
You travel further east. You reach the point at which you can trn back and return by nightfall, If you go further, you'll be camping tonight. Turn back? Or something else?
What's your strategy for finding whatever it is you are looking for?
Asimov and Irony | Hugh | AC 17/13/15 HP 53/53 | AC 20/11/19 HP 35/35 Hardness 2 d20+12=14 ; Wednesday April 6th, 2022 12:36:59 AM
Know[geo] - 14
Asimov says, "I'm reminded of the Tree of Parting and the Culverwood. Perhaps it is not a good idea to camp here for the night if this forest is anything like the Culverwood. We could find the nearest camp ground out of the primevil forest bit and then set out early tomorrow. I guess if we don't find the Harpies by then we'd have to camp, though I mean who knows where they went. Does anyone have any way to potentially ask for divine assistance? My devices aren't really helpful right now."
Mitch - The Twins HP 65/65 AC 26/12/24 d20=11 ; Wednesday April 6th, 2022 7:38:51 AM "The what of what?" "Ooh, tells us about that." the Twins say (is this even set in the Wold?) They are used to camping and willing to keep up the chase, but will head back if the others prefer. As for searching strategy, the best they've got is looking at the trees for signs of the harpy's roosting. (perception 11)
Honor Bright (Kathy) Wednesday April 6th, 2022 12:54:38 PM
"I worry that if we camp somewhere, the harpies will just fly over us in the dark and go attack somebody," Honor says. She frowns. "How fast do harpies fly, anyway?"
SteveM - Elron | AC 21 (19 if raging), HP 49/49, DR 1/-- d20+8=27 ; Wednesday April 6th, 2022 6:45:49 PM "Well, th' nearest place we know of is th' homestead we left. We've got time t' get back 'fore dark, but is it safer than th' woods for us now?" Elron thinks a strategy for finding a hideout is needed, and that sounds like something for thinky-folk to figure out. All he can do is wander around looking for signs of someone walking through the area.
In this area, for instance, he finds . . . (Survival = 27)
Asimov and Irony | Hugh | AC 17/13/15 HP 53/53 | AC 20/11/19 HP 35/35 Hardness 2 Wednesday April 6th, 2022 11:06:24 PM
Asimov says, "I might not be from around here but your geography is easy enough to learn at least for me. All I know is that we either have to camp or head back. If we camp judging by how this place looks we may be visited by something worse than harpies if we go back then we will have lost time."
"As to how fast Harpies fly let me think on that or maybe Zeoll would be better suited to answer that question, I don't think Harpies are necessarily in my knowledge set." (OOC: think Nature)
Mitch - The Twins HP 65/65 AC 26/12/24 Thursday April 7th, 2022 7:29:31 AM "We're standing in the middle of the woods." "With no real clues." "And no way to track the harpy beyond guessing." "It doesn't matter where we go, they can fly wherever they want." the Twins point out.
Honor Bright (Kathy) Thursday April 7th, 2022 3:21:25 PM
"I think we should find a place and camp," Honor says after a pause. "We've come this far; it would be a shame to go back. And maybe that trap spooked the harpies enough that they'll stay away for a while."
SteveM - Elron | AC 21 (19 if raging), HP 49/49, DR 1/-- Thursday April 7th, 2022 7:37:24 PM "Th' harpies fly, but th' boss might not."
Home At Last (DM Cayzle | Zeoll) d20=12 ; Thursday April 7th, 2022 9:34:27 PM
Zeoll's lore suggests that harpies fly pretty fast. [OOC: 80']
===== ===== ===== DM Post
The party decides to press on a bit and then make a camp.
Elron finds a recent treefall, and the party can rest under its branches (aside perhaps from Zeoll and Camel). Will you make a cold camp (which may be uncomfortable but not dangerous since it is not a cold time of year) or build a fire.
As you camp, you ponder ways to find your quarry.
Do you set watches? Who, and when?
Asimov and Irony | Hugh | AC 17/13/15 HP 53/53 | AC 20/11/19 HP 35/35 Hardness 2 d20+5=17 ; Friday April 8th, 2022 12:26:48 AM
Asimov sets Irony to stand guard all night since one of the abilities Asimov built into his mechanical minion was the ability to stand watch while Asimov rests.
As Asimov needs rest to prepare his mechanical inventions he figures letting Irony guard the whole night is enough of a contribution, however the rest of the group should still probably pitch in if possible as Irony isn't as good at spotting something as a person might be.
Asimov says, "I vote we cold camp. Probably safer that way. Also I'll have Irony stand guard all night like usual but other folks probably might want to still take shifts as my minion isn't as good at spotting things as a person might be."
Perception for Irony : 17
Mitch - The Twins HP 65/65 AC 26/12/24 d20=18 ; Friday April 8th, 2022 8:37:11 AM
The Twins have no objections to taking a watch and have no ideas to share to find the harpies (perception 18).
SteveM - Elron | AC 21 (19 if raging), HP 49/49, DR 1/-- Friday April 8th, 2022 11:11:05 AM "We could try t' lure th' harpies to us. Might work once. I doubt they'd fall for somethin' like that back at th' homestead now, but. . . " Elron ponders what might entice a harpy to land, and decides against tracking down a small human to use. Maybe someone else can figure that part out.
Elron's fine with a cold camp. "I've got, I say, I've got my feathah's to keep me warm."
Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant 10'5" atm) (Kim) AC 19 Touch 13 FF17 HP 58/58 d20+7=23 ; Friday April 8th, 2022 12:56:18 PM
"I'm taking a sheep or three," declares the auburn warrior. She takes care to place them carefully upon the back of Sled, nestled among the gear and blankets. Perhaps one she will carry over her neck. They'll get used to it. She feeds them grass and other things they like to nibble on from time to time, and tethers them when she puts them down to graze. Gives them water, too. And takes care of Sled, her reasonably faithful mule, to ensure he's reasonably happy as they go along.
She names the sheep. "This one is Bait. Here is Diversion. And the wee one is Snack. I'm hopin' we can keep them all alive, but people are more important than sheep, and harpies are important enough on the side of evil that it is my intention that they die."
When they find a place to camp, Mundhildur says she can built an under-the-ground smokeless fire. "You'd have to be right atop it, looking straight down, to even have a chance to notice there's a flame. We dig a pit down 2-1/2 or 3 feet. We dig another shallow pit 3 feet or so away from the first pit. Then we dig a slant hole from the shallow side angled to just above the bottom of the deep side. The fire goes in the deep pit. A few rocks in the bottom keep air flowing under the wood. Using some of the dirt from the deep pit, make a ridge 5 inches high above the ground - that helps keep the flames from showing unless you're right above it." She digs it, gets the fuel ready, and shows how it should work. "But I won't light it unless you all think that slightly warm camping is better than cold camping."
She goes with what the others choose. At least now they know how to build a concealed fire pit.
She'll take any watch. Perception: 23
Honor Bright (Kathy) Friday April 8th, 2022 2:10:33 PM
"I don't see a reason we can't just have a fire," Honor says. "We want the bad things to find us, so they don't go after the innocent." She adds, "I can take a middle watch. I'm not a spellcaster--well, I am, I guess--but I don't need uninterrupted rest."
Home At Last (DM Cayzle | Zeoll) Saturday April 9th, 2022 12:23:03 AM
You make a camp with a hidden fire. There are no disturbances in the night. In the morning, it is time to set off.
The day is cloudy and drizzling. You are in forested hills. Another day east and you'll be in actual mountains. The forest is old growth, and there are really huge trees that tower high above the canopy here and there. From the ground, you do not have much of a sight line, and you cannot see if there are any aerial creatures in the neighborhood.
The sheep Mundhi took from the abandoned farm bleat softly.
Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant 10'5" atm) (Kim) AC 19 Touch 13 FF17 HP 58/58 Saturday April 9th, 2022 2:19:02 AM
"I can climb, but if I get very high on some of these trees, I will break branches. Who can climb and get a look?" Mundhi asks her friends.
Sheep's wool is able to pretty well shed rain, but there's no sense in letting them soak up more than is necessary. While they ride upon Sled, or upon her shoulders, she covers them with some canvas to shed the rain. If the party stops to climb a tree, she can offer lengths of rope and such. Meanwhile, she sets the tethered sheep down for a while after looking about for something suitable for them to graze upon. She will need to be alert to meadows, and tufts of grass or the like here and there. She wants to be as kind to the sheep as she might. The lanolin that collects on her hands feels nice.
SteveM - Elron | AC 21 (19 if raging), HP 49/49, DR 1/-- d20=19 ; Sunday April 10th, 2022 10:53:28 AM "I s'pose I'm th' lightest," Elron allows as he squints up at the tallest tree. "An' I s'pose it's a lot like roostin' -- but very different from roosterin' you'll please note -- jus' abnormally high in th' tree and goin' ever higher. An' I s'pose trees is one o' th' easiest things t' climb. So I s'pose I can do it." Elron is clearly not relishing the climb.
"Now jus' what am I lookin' for when I get up there?" Elron asks as he starts his meticulous ascent. (Climb = 19)
Mitch - The Twins HP 65/65 AC 26/12/24 Sunday April 10th, 2022 9:27:19 PM
The Twins regret their lack of skill in anything that doesn't involve hitting or shooting things.
Asimov and Irony | Hugh | AC 17/13/15 HP 53/53 | AC 20/11/19 HP 35/35 Hardness 2 d20+5=14 ; Monday April 11th, 2022 1:08:24 AM
Asimov says, "Irony can climb. That is what I enabled him to do with the most recent upgrade I gave it after that business with the drow."
"I'll send Irony up with Elron"
(OOC: Irony has climb speed so I don't think it requires a check)
Irony Perception: 14
Honor Bright (Kathy) Monday April 11th, 2022 5:01:57 PM
Honor is not much of a climber, especially in armor. She stays on the ground. "Twins," she says, "I think you're our best archer. Keep him covered."
Honor pulls out her own bow, but has no illusions about her ability to use it effectively.
Asimov and Irony | Hugh | AC 17/13/15 HP 53/53 | AC 20/11/19 HP 35/35 Hardness 2 Monday April 11th, 2022 8:37:44 PM
Asimov waits to hear what Irony spotted while climbing
Home At Last (DM Cayzle | Zeoll) Monday April 11th, 2022 11:14:02 PM
Irony and Elron climb above the canopy and start looking around. After a half hour they spot one tall tree from which several really big flying creatures emerge and then fly away west.
Mitch - The Twins HP 65/65 AC 26/12/24 Tuesday April 12th, 2022 5:14:00 AM "A big tree seems as likely as anywhere else." "Lets get moving." The Twins suggest.
Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant 10'5" atm) (Kim) AC 19 Touch 13 FF17 HP 58/58 Tuesday April 12th, 2022 12:06:28 PM
So, we have been traveling eastward. With the harpies flying away west, that would indicate they are coming roughly in our direction. Is my interpretation correct?
Whether the case or not, Mundhildur suggests the following: "Let's get ourselves to that tree. If it is their home, it might be a good place to work at taking them down."
Based upon Elron's and Irony's descriptions (if Irony can give a description), Mundhi draws a little map on the ground, showing the direction of the tree, finding out if there were any discernible undulations along the way, other landmarks (hills, mountains, other trees of significant size, gaps in the tree cover, changes in tree species, etc.). She asks for corrections as she sketches out their descriptions. She memorizes the reported and now sketched layout.
"That way, right?" she asks, pointing the direction they were told the tree lies. She gathers her small tethered flock, places them as comfortably as she can back on Sled and her shoulders, and sets out when all are ready.
Honor Bright (Kathy) Tuesday April 12th, 2022 3:49:36 PM
"If there are harpies heading back toward the farms, we should try to intercept them," Honor says. "Let's remember where that tree is, but we should deal with the immediate threat first."
SteveM - Elron | AC 21 (19 if raging), HP 49/49, DR 1/-- Tuesday April 12th, 2022 10:37:24 PM
Elron makes sure to note the direction of the tree. If the harpies are up there, flying much faster than he and his friends walk, then intercepting them only makes sense if they are flying this way. And then, only if they can be coaxed down to the ground. Depending on the directions and distances involved, it might be better to find the tree while there are fewer defenders there.
The Harpy Tree: Ascent
To the Tree (DM Cayzle | Zeoll) Tuesday April 12th, 2022 11:24:54 PM
You deduce that the fliers, likely harpies, were flying toward the city. But you guys are at least ten minutes walk from that big tree, and these things are fast fliers. I don;t see how you can hope to catch them.
Per wise Elron, you head towards the big tree from which they flew. How do you approach?
Asimov and Irony | Hugh | AC 17/13/15 HP 53/53 | AC 20/11/19 HP 35/35 Hardness 2 d20+6=23 ; d20+10=22 ; d20+1=15 ; Tuesday April 12th, 2022 11:52:06 PM
Asimov and Irony go forth stealthily or as Stealthily as the minion can manage.
Stealth: Asimov: 23 Irony: 15
Perception: Asimov: 22
Mitch - The Twins HP 65/65 AC 26/12/24 d20=13 ; Wednesday April 13th, 2022 4:59:42 AM
The Twins remain terrible at stealth (7 after armor check penalty) and probably let the others approach while staying behind so as to not give them away.
Honor Bright (Kathy) Wednesday April 13th, 2022 2:36:09 PM
Even if Honor hasn't yet summoned Justice (and I'm not sure what the mount situation is for the party), she is not stealthy. And she doesn't see a need to be.
"Do you plan to sneak up the tree?" she asks. "If there are still harpies there, they're going to see us or hear us coming."
SteveM - Elron | AC 21 (19 if raging), HP 49/49, DR 1/-- Wednesday April 13th, 2022 7:58:37 PM "No one's gonna see or hear us all the way up in a tall tree with th' canopy o' this forest between us. Unless they have guards below." Elron's not set on sneaking. He will, though, once they get closer, if the others think it's best.
To the Tree (DM Cayzle | Zeoll) Wednesday April 13th, 2022 11:32:04 PM
Zeoll and his camel move as quetly as they can. Which is not very,
===== ===== ===== DM Post.
The party advances as stealthily as possible.
This particular tall tree stands alone in the forest actually. There are no other trees, just meadow, for about 100 ft out from the trunk.
The tree itself stands 400-500 ft tall, and the trunk is 15 ft in diameter at the base.
So far there is no alarm. Also no sign of any harpies or other creatures anywhere about.
Asimov and Irony | Hugh | AC 17/13/15 HP 53/53 | AC 20/11/19 HP 35/35 Hardness 2 Thursday April 14th, 2022 12:32:55 AM
Asimov whispers to the party, "So it is looking like we are probably going to have to climb this thing, right? I mean it probably wouldn't be a good idea to just send Irony and Elron up on this one since their was those harpies earlier and their boss could be presumably somewhere up there too. I don't suppose we have some means to potentially assist those who may not be good at climbing."
Mitch - The Twins HP 65/65 AC 26/12/24 Thursday April 14th, 2022 6:11:23 AM "Does anyone have rope?" "Knotted rope is easy enough to climb."
SteveM - Elron | AC 21 (19 if raging), HP 49/49, DR 1/-- Thursday April 14th, 2022 2:08:18 PM
Elron takes the question on climbing seriously. "Well, we could set a fire at th'base o' th' tree so that they would have to come to us t' put it out. 'Course that might get out o' hand if'n we're not careful, an' I don't know how t' carefully light only one tree in a forest. Still, may be better than fightin' off flyin' critters while climbing."
Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant 7'4" atm) (Kim) AC 19 Touch 13 FF17 HP 58/58 Thursday April 14th, 2022 4:57:55 PM
"That one might be strong enough to hold me," says the tall woman who shrinks from over 10 feet to just over 7 feet tall. She finds a place in the meadow for the sheep to graze, drives in three stakes, and places them so that each sheep has its own bit of grass, but they can come together toward the edge of their tethers to huddle together should they want to. She places two buckets with water near this central meeting place.
"I have lots of silk rope," she says. She takes several coils off of Sled. "Enough for the whole tree. Three lengths of 150' silk rope. Four lengths of 50' silk rope. Two lengths of 50' hempen rope. I used some of my stout twine to tether the sheep, but do have two lengths of 50' twine left." Mundhi also has 20 spikes, and a couple hammers, and two picks. "I can use some of the ropes for harnesses. I have two sets of block and tackle. I can certainly get us all a good start on climbing, with a fair measure of safety. Perhaps Irony, a good climber, can lead the way, set some spikes, tie the ropes."
She plots out a good pathway up, figuring out how often to set spikes. "I have axes, too. We could chop some footholds here and there as needed."
"So, who is game for a climb today? I have a ring of feather fall, by the way."
How far down do the tree branches come? What is a typical separation of branch from branch? How stout are they?
Honor Bright (Kathy) Thursday April 14th, 2022 10:08:19 PM
"I have rope, too, but it looks like Mundhildur has us covered," Honor says. "I'm not much of a climber, but if I take it slow and steady, I should get up all right."
[Honor can take 10 and get a 12, which should be enough to climb with the help of a rope.]
Asimov and Irony | Hugh | AC 17/13/15 HP 53/53 | AC 20/11/19 HP 35/35 Hardness 2 Friday April 15th, 2022 3:33:06 AM
Asimov says, "So Elron and Irony take the rope and climb up there using it to set up some system the rest of us could use to aid our ascent?"
Mitch - The Twins HP 65/65 AC 26/12/24 Friday April 15th, 2022 6:09:25 AM
If needed, the twins can tie one end of the rope to an arrow and shoot it into the tree so that there is a rope to use on the way up. Easier then trying to throw the rope up over a branch.
To the Tree (DM Cayzle | Zeoll) Friday April 15th, 2022 1:03:09 PM
When Asimov asks if anyone can help with a climb, Zeoll volunteers that he can offer some bardic assistance. [OOC: Inspire Courage to give a +2 on checks, Guidance to give another +1.]
"But speaking as a drruid," Zeoll says to Elron, "I would have to be opposed to setting the forrest on firre. I mean, we can do betterr than that!"
===== ===== ===== DM Post
Asimov asks about climbing, and Zeoll offers some help.
The Twins ask if anyone has rope.
Elron suggests lighting a fire, but the liontaur druid objects.
Mundhi is very well prepared, with gear above and beyoind your needs. Heck, you could even winch the camel up!
Honor suggests that taking it slow and steady will get the job done. [OOC: Taking ten is a fine idea. But if you come under attack, you'll have to make checks.]
Mundhi wants to know about how climbable the tree is, so she advances to the trunk for a look. Anyone else go with her? Looking up from the base, you see that this is an evergreen tree, and that the branches and needles hide a platform that is 140 ft from the ground. You see no trap door or opening in the underside of the platform. It is about 20-30 ft in diameter. The DC to climb up (without rope) is 15.
Honor Bright (Kathy) Friday April 15th, 2022 8:04:00 PM
"I don't know how we're going to manage that platform," Honor says. "But unless one of you can grow wings, climbing is still our best option."
Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant 7'4" atm) (Kim) AC 19 Touch 13 FF17 HP 58/58 d20+12=31 ; Saturday April 16th, 2022 12:58:33 AM
Honor talks about someone growing wings. Mundhi looks over at Elron. Then back at Honor. "I haven't tried that one, yet." She tucks her thumbs up under her arms and flaps. She flies as high as her tiptoes will take her. "Nope."
She grows to her full height, and drives a spike into the tree above her head. "Sorry, Zeoll, but this won't kill the tree, and I'm going to do some more." She wraps hempen rope around, ties it snug against the trunk. Then about every 15 inches ties a knot, starting from the top, then working downwards. "This should do to help get you up near the first branch." Once the knots are done, she shrinks to 7'4", and climbs up until she is able to place one arm over the spike to help keep her up. Her legs wrap around the rope to keep her snug in place. She takes another length of rope, finds a stout branch above, and takes a toss or two until she gets it up and over. This she repeats, spiraling around the trunk, anchoring to branches, leaving knots to help the climbers, until getting up under the platform. She circles under the platform, leaving a good set of rope webbing to help keep climbers pretty safe, with plenty of places to hold on. Then she descends.
"Someone lighter than I needs to get up here. I'll try to help you up and over the platform, and you can tell us what you find out. Who wants to do it?"
She will have a couple of climbing harnesses, similar to what they used to bridge over the troll. She ensures the first couple of people up are harnessed, and assists them.
"I'll stay down here. Up here? -Just below the platform. Say, Zeoll, that's a good idea." She rigs a pulley system to help pull people up with silk ropes. She does tell them it's not a bad idea, though, to get used to climbing, if they can.
============= Mundhildur has the climb skill, and knows her way around ropes. In addition to +7 from climb, I gave her a +5 bonus from rope use, and if we add Zeoll's encouragement, that gives her a 33 on her climb to set the ropes.
Edit: Fixed a typo
SteveM - Elron | AC 21 (19 if raging), HP 49/49, DR 1/-- d20+15=23 ; Saturday April 16th, 2022 3:51:48 PM
Elron's not keen on climbing another tree -- this one looks like a more difficult climb. After teasingly asking Zeoll if cats aren't good climbers, he approaches with Mundhildur and looks around carefully to see if there's anything that may help -- perhaps a rope hanging from under the platform or the lower end of something to lift things from the ground up there.
And while they're headed over, Elron takes the opportunity to whisper to Mundhildur the story of the climbing turtles.
(Perception = 23)
Mitch - The Twins HP 65/65 AC 26/12/24 Sunday April 17th, 2022 5:07:53 PM
The Twins draw their bow and prepare an action to shoot anything that comes out to attack.
Asimov and Irony | Hugh | AC 17/13/15 HP 53/53 | AC 20/11/19 HP 35/35 Hardness 2 Monday April 18th, 2022 12:27:21 AM
Asimov says, "Irony can make the climb without rope." (OOC: he has a climb speed)
He continues, "Perhaps we give him a rope and instructions for look for something sturdy to tie it to? We could then try to climb the tree using rope instead of just the tree. Just a thought."
To the Tree (DM Cayzle | Zeoll) Monday April 18th, 2022 10:52:58 PM
A plan comes together ... Irony uses its natural climbing abiility to get to the platform, carrying a knotted rope that Mundhi has prepared. The Twins stand guard.
How does Asimov communicate with Irony? What does he do if he reaches the top and does not find anything to tie off to?
If you can give Irony better instructions, or communicte with the creation at a distance of 140 ft, then great. If not, then what?
Mitch - The Twins HP 65/65 AC 26/12/24 d20=14 ; Tuesday April 19th, 2022 5:16:46 AM
The Twins keep a sharp eye out for any danger (perception 14)
Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant 7'4" atm) (Kim) AC 19 Touch 13 FF17 HP 58/58 Tuesday April 19th, 2022 1:18:12 PM
Mundhildur tries really, really hard to get an answer to the earlier question of how high the branches start above the ground, and their spacing and sizes (stout? skinny? in-between?) and arrangement up to the bottom of the platform - as well, stepping back, of the view above the platform from down below.
Honor Bright (Kathy) Tuesday April 19th, 2022 1:52:42 PM
"We have several lengths of rope," Honor says. "And there's no reason we need to climb the tree all in one go. We can do it in stages." She looks up at the tree. "Have Irony climb to that branch there," (pointing to a specific one) "and attach a rope. Asimov climbs up to there, chooses another likely-looking branch higher up, and sends Irony to attach another rope to it. The rest of us follow as it it safe to do so."
SteveM - Elron | AC 21 (19 if raging), HP 49/49, DR 1/-- Tuesday April 19th, 2022 7:29:19 PM
Elron asks Asimov, "How much weight do you think Irony can hold, in addition t' th' weight o' th' rope?"
To the Tree (DM Cayzle | Zeoll) Tuesday April 19th, 2022 11:35:50 PM
The first 80 ft of trunk goes straight up, no branches. Then there are scattered branches for 20 ft. Then they get thicker.
The tree’s trunk is a DC 15 to climb. Once up there, a character can move along a tree limb with a Climb check (DC 15) or Balance check (DC 10 within 10 ft. of the trunk, DC 20 further out).
There are definitely branches to which you could tie a rope.
The branches are thick up there, and you cannot see if the platform is just a floor, or has a railing, or has walls ... can't tell.
So far, no sign of danger.
Asimov and Irony | Hugh | AC 17/13/15 HP 53/53 | AC 20/11/19 HP 35/35 Hardness 2 d20+6=11 ; Wednesday April 20th, 2022 12:37:47 AM
Asimov says, "A light load for Irony is 86 pounds, a medium load is between 87 and 173 pounds and a heavy load is between 174 and 260 pounds."
Climb: 11
Asimov isn't having much luck with climbing in the absense of rope.
Mitch - The Twins HP 65/65 AC 26/12/24 Wednesday April 20th, 2022 5:25:03 AM
Waiting patiently. Bow in hand.
SteveM - Elron | AC 21 (19 if raging), HP 49/49, DR 1/-- Wednesday April 20th, 2022 6:27:29 PM "Well then. Fifty feet o' rope weighs about ten pounds, and you need about two o' those ropes t' get t' th' lower branches. I weigh about thirty t' forty pounds, so all together me an' th' ropes can't be more than. . .," he ticks off a few feathers, ". . . ninety-some pounds. If'n we need, I could go up th' rope Irony is holdin'."
If there's some reason Irony can't hold his full carrying capacity while clinging to the side of a tree, someone might want to clue Elron in. . .
Honor Bright (Kathy) Wednesday April 20th, 2022 9:54:59 PM
Like the Twins, Honor can't do much but watch and wait.
To the Tree (DM Cayzle | Zeoll) Thursday April 21st, 2022 8:48:43 PM
If your DM interprets posts correctly, Irony climbs up 100 ft. Elron climbs the rope and secures it to a branch up there. Elron and Irony are up, standing securely on a thick wide branch. Still, are you two tying yourself off in any way, should a high wind or an aerial attack come your way?
You now have a rope that rises 100 ft from the ground. The platform is 40 ft above you. Elron, from his vantage point, sees that with the lower branches and what look like they may be handholds in the underside of the platform, you could probably climb from the trunk to the edge of the platform with a DC20 check.
Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant 7'4" atm) (Kim) AC 19 Touch 13 FF17 HP 58/58 Friday April 22nd, 2022 1:05:39 AM
"Fifty feet of silk rope weight about 5 pounds. Double it up, by twisting it together, and then fifty feet weight 10 pounds, Elron. As I said earlier, I have 450 feet of silk rope, in 150' strands. Silk rope is more than enough to hold me. It could hold me and my mule and Zeoll and a bag of rocks, so long as we don't go all bouncy on it over and over."
"What's more, I have four more sets of silk rope, each 50' long. And two lengths of hempen rope, 50' each. I have 20 foot-long iron spikes - one of which is fastened 10' above the ground. I have a hammer. I made two harnesses to help keep people attached to the ropes. I can make more harnesses. I declare, Honor, even you can get up this tree."
She recommends two 75' pulleys - one from just above the ground, up to the first stout branch. "We just tie a knot where the two ends come together. I can haul people up. The block and tackle go at the top of the rope, and I have two sets."
Then a similar arrangement, from the first stout branch at 80', up to just below the platform. She adds that putting together some safety rope at the 80' height would be wise. Drive in a few spikes, attach ropes, some for the feet to stand on, some to hold onto with the hands. Maybe three rows of ropes at 80', 83', 86', using spikes and branches.
Have a similar arrangement just below the platform. Then someone can climb up and over the platform, and some of the rest can follow.
"Zeoll, it would make some sense NOT to haul up Bill, and maybe not you - but, if you want to go up, we can do it."
She shows them how by using a wedge they can arrest the moving of the rope along the pulley. When it's time for Mundhildur to pull people up, they pull the wedge out. The wedge is on a short rope, attached, so it's unlikely to disappear.
Asimov and Irony | Hugh | AC 17/13/15 HP 53/53 | AC 20/11/19 HP 35/35 Hardness 2 Friday April 22nd, 2022 2:01:41 AM
Asimov says, "I like your plan Mundhi. Why don't you climb up there using the rope and then start hauling the rest of us up. Irony might have a climb speed but sadly I do not."
Mitch - The Twins HP 65/65 AC 26/12/24 d20=12 ; Friday April 22nd, 2022 7:33:10 AM
The Twins don't really feel a pulley system is necessary since there's a rope now lowering the DC to 5 or 10 (rope DC is 10, knotted rope DC is 5). Should a rope be tossed down to them they'll just haul themselves up (12 to climb. probably higher to lazy to check my bonus :P)
SteveM - Elron | AC 21 (19 if raging), HP 49/49, DR 1/-- Friday April 22nd, 2022 11:58:17 AM
Elron does what he can to get people up to the lower branch. He does not quite understand what Mundhildur tries to explain, but he trusts her to know what she's saying. Surely it's their best chance to get any higher.
While folks are working, he tells the story of the climbing turtle. "Most turtles are not that skilled at climbin', but there are some that are. Still, I was a bit surprised one day when I was walkin' through th' forest when somthin' dropped out o' a tree an' almost hit me. It went right past my head and gave a little oof when it hit th' ground. I started t' say somethin' about watchin' where it was goin' when I realized this was quite a young turtle."
"It was a cute little feller, with a real serious attitude. I looked around t' see where its parents were before I remembered that turtles don't really do family, and spied a couple o' blackbirds watchin'. As we watches, th' turtle went back t' th' trunk o' a tree and started climbin'. It had sharp little claws, I guess they were good for that. So it was slow, bein' a turtle, but it steadily climbed t' th' second branch o' th' tree, walked out t' th' end, and jumped off. Only it was a funny jump. Turtles ain't built for flappin', but the way it was wavin' its forelegs about that had t' have been what it was doin'. This here turtle was tryin' t' fly. O' course, it fell t' th' ground again."
"I settled down by th' blackbirds an kept on watchin'. Th' turtle tried th' same thin' over an' over, each time goin' just a little bit higher in th' tree. Th' birds would shudder every time it hit th' ground, but I do believe they were downright proud o' th' turtle's determination. After four or five more tries though, one o' th' birds says t' th'other, Honey, if he keeps this up he'll really hurt hisself. Don't'cha think it's time we tell him he's adopted?."
Elron makes sure to tie off to a branch while he's up there.
Honor Bright (Kathy) Friday April 22nd, 2022 9:46:42 PM
Honor takes 10 and gets a 12 to climb the rope. She listens to Elron's story.
"I don't get it," she says. "Blackbirds can't climb. Why did the turtle even try to climb if he thought he was a blackbird?" Her wide, guileless blue eyes give no indication of whether she's kidding. Probably not.
To the Tree (DM Cayzle | Zeoll) Friday April 22nd, 2022 10:59:01 PM
Zeoll scorns Mundhi's worries. "Bill is a grreat climberr! No worrries. And I'm competent!"
Zeoll takes 10 for a 10. Bill takes 10 for an 18.
Bill makes a wild camel snort. If you speak Camel, Please Highlight to display spoiler: {"I am strong, and Climb is a class skill for me! HA!"}
Up in the branches, Zeoll makes sure that he and Bill are tied to the trunk when not actively climbing. Good thing too, because that joke of Elron's makes him laugh, and he mighta fell off if he weren't tied on!
===== ===== =====
Mundhi puts her knowledge of engineering to work and sets up two 75 ft ropes to let everybody ascend with an easy Climb DC [Your DM assumes you are using knotted ropes, because why would you not? That is, why wouldn't you knot?]
So now everyone is up in the tree. The underside fo the platform is a couple feet overhead. It is rough, with what look like handholds. You can hand-over-hand to the edge of the platform with a DC 20 climb check.
Now that you are up here, you can see that the platform is made of wood. It is 50 ft in diameter. The tree trunk here is about 15 ft in diameter.
Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant 7'4" atm) (Kim) AC 19 Touch 13 FF17 HP 58/58 Saturday April 23rd, 2022 3:57:26 PM
Mundhildur would not not knot, certainly.
SteveM - Elron | AC 21 (19 if raging), HP 49/49, DR 1/-- d20+15=33 ; Saturday April 23rd, 2022 4:08:46 PM
If the spacing of the branches permits it, Elron will circle the trunk of the tree, slowly and carefully and staying tied off, while looking for trap doors, trash holes, or whatnot on the underside of the platform. He wants to do this to make sure they don't miss something before trying a precarious move to the edge of the platform. But it will also suggest to him that whoever the boss is must also be able to fly if there is no other route up.
Perception = 33
Mitch - The Twins HP 65/65 AC 26/12/24 d20=2 ; Sunday April 24th, 2022 9:48:53 PM
The Twins do their best to keep an eye out but can't see much through the branches (perception 2)
Asimov and Irony | Hugh | AC 17/13/15 HP 53/53 | AC 20/11/19 HP 35/35 Hardness 2 d20+10=15 ; Sunday April 24th, 2022 11:56:21 PM
Asimov takes a careful look around. (Perception: 15 or 18 versus mechanical traps)
He is looking for threats both of the creature and trap variety if they exist.
Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant 7'4" atm) (Kim) AC 19 Touch 13 FF17 HP 58/58 d20+7=17 ; Monday April 25th, 2022 2:05:43 PM
Once those are up who plan to come up, Mundhildur looks toward getting people to the next level. She swings a grappling hook next to the tree, with 50' knotted rope (likely ~45' due to knots) attached, and works to get it up and over the lip of the platform. Is a 17 good enough for that?
If so, she asks who wants to give it a try. She anchors a spike, ties the near end of the rope to the spike, so that, should the hook not hold, if the person hangs on, rope and person will not rapidly descend unchecked. As a precaution, she also places it so there are a few branches a little ways below where she stands. In addition to the spike, she holds the line a few feet from the spike.
Honor Bright (Kathy) Monday April 25th, 2022 2:28:25 PM
"I'll try the rope," Honor says. "If it can hold me, it can hold most of us."
She moves slowly and carefully, attempting to climb the rope. [Take 10 to get a 12. In armor and fully equipped, Honor weighs just north of 200 pounds, so it ought to be a good test.]
To the Tree (DM Cayzle | Zeoll) Monday April 25th, 2022 9:05:08 PM
Elron circles the trunk carefully. He looks for trap doors or other means of egress. There are none.
Asimov and The Twins keep watch.
Honor is the last to ascend. Now everybody is under the platform, most tied off for extra safety.
Mundhildur climbs out toward the underside of the edge of the platform. She discovers that it is not even really a platform! It is not thin! It is thick! A wood wall climbs up 20 feet. Or put another way, the platform is 20 ft thick. It is like a cylinder 50 ft in diameter and 20 ft high!
Somebody will need a DC20 Climb check to climb hand-over-hand to the edge of the cylinder, and a DC15 check to climb up 20 ft to the top.
Asimov and Irony | Hugh | AC 17/13/15 HP 53/53 | AC 20/11/19 HP 35/35 Hardness 2 Tuesday April 26th, 2022 12:32:01 AM
Asimov says, "I could send Irony. He is good at climbing." (OOC: what are the rules for climb speed? Do you get a +8 racial bonus to climb and can take 10 normally when couldn't or was that 3.5)
Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant 7'4" atm) (Kim) AC 19 Touch 13 FF17 HP 58/58 Tuesday April 26th, 2022 2:18:56 AM
"Sounds like a plan, Asimov. Can Irony drive in metal spikes along the way? Regardless, let him take this rope with the grappling hook. If he can hook it on to something solid up top, then drive in a spike or two along the 20' face to wrap the rope around, that may give us a good way to do it." In addition to the grappling hook rope, she firmly fastens on one of her harnesses for Irony, and ties one of the other 50' silk ropes to it. She adds another spike nearly adjacent yet at an angle away from another, and secures the other end to the two spikes. She takes one of the hempen ropes, ties it so its midpoint will be near the edge of the silk rope just before it bends upward, and sets it so the silk and hempen ropes will be firm at that point. The almost-25' ends will each go off to opposite sides of the trunk, and secured there. Should Irony somehow fall, he will have the silken safety rope to keep him from plunging all the way down, the knotted rope to hang on to, and the two hempen ropes to add some braking, and take some of the strain so that the construct does not jerk all of a sudden to a stop. Three ropes to multiply safety. Figure a net gain in weight carried of about 15 pounds. With the rigging, Irony will not be bearing the full weight of it all.
The hammer she has on a cord one can wrap around the wrist. If it slips from his hand, that should keep it from falling. She gives Irony three spikes. "Use what you can of these. If one falls, let it fall."
Mitch - The Twins HP 65/65 AC 26/12/24 d20=4 ; Tuesday April 26th, 2022 8:05:59 AM
The Twins continue to keep watch poorly (4 perception)
Honor Bright (Kathy) d20+3=6 ; Tuesday April 26th, 2022 5:04:24 PM
Honor clings to the tree and keeps an eye on the surroundings. Not a sharp eye, but an eye. [Perception 6]
SteveM - Elron | AC 21 (19 if raging), HP 49/49, DR 1/-- Tuesday April 26th, 2022 7:06:22 PM
Elron wonders whether the platform is really that thick, or is perhaps hollow. Not that it matters, since he doesn't have the appropriate tools to cut into it even if it is.
To the Tree (DM Cayzle | Zeoll) Tuesday April 26th, 2022 11:30:26 PM
You look at the wooden structure above you and see that it is made of planks. So you deduce it is hollow; that is, that there is a pretty big space therein.
Irony, with his climb speed and taking 10, climbs over and up. The thing finds a couple hooks and can easily secure two ropes.
With that, the hard part is done. Everyone can climb the ropes and ascend.
You are all standing on the structure. You are on what is most like a flat roof. The two hooks look ideal for letting down a rope ladder (though there is none there now.) There is a trap door nearby.
Also, looking up, you see that there is another platform 20 ft overhead. There is a ladder you can use to climb up, to a trap door in the underside of the second platform.
Asimov and Irony | Hugh | AC 17/13/15 HP 53/53 | AC 20/11/19 HP 35/35 Hardness 2 d20+10=27 ; d20+13=33 ; Tuesday April 26th, 2022 11:43:05 PM
Asimov takes a good look around. (Perception: 27)
He then examines the trap door looking for well traps. (Perception: 33 to find mechanical traps)
Mitch - The Twins HP 65/65 AC 26/12/24 Wednesday April 27th, 2022 7:07:19 AM "This must be the old thieves base." "Harpies don't need ladders." The Twins guess.
Honor Bright (Kathy) Wednesday April 27th, 2022 4:39:50 PM
Now that Honor is standing on a solid structure, she uses her Detect Evil ability to scan the area.
SteveM - Elron | AC 21 (19 if raging), HP 49/49, DR 1/-- Wednesday April 27th, 2022 7:58:23 PM "Up or down?" Elron asks. He prefers down.
To the Tree (DM Cayzle | Zeoll) Wednesday April 27th, 2022 10:53:01 PM
Asimov sees no traps on the trap doors. The thought does occur to him that at a thickness of 20 feet, either there is a very tall space in there, or multiple floors.
The Twins cleverly realize that this must be the old thieves' hideout. But is it occupied now?
Honor answers that question definitively! Yes, there are 4 faintly evil creatures down and to the right (standing at the trap door and facing the trunk), two more faintly evil creatures down and to the left, and one more above in an upper platform! (But none directly underfoot.)
Elron urges the party to choose ... up or down?
Asimov and Irony | Hugh | AC 17/13/15 HP 53/53 | AC 20/11/19 HP 35/35 Hardness 2 Thursday April 28th, 2022 12:56:15 AM
Assuming Honor tells the party of the evils she senses Asimov whispers, "I vote we go up first and take out the sentry, hopefully before he can alert anyone else. That way we would have the run of the place and we wouldn't have to worry about any potential surprises on our way out of the trap door after we are done clearing the place."
Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant 7'4" atm) (Kim) AC 19 Touch 13 FF17 HP 58/58 Thursday April 28th, 2022 2:05:45 AM
Privately, Mundhildur wonders whether the evil presences Honor sensed are some of the harpy youngins.
"Up to the top of the enclosure. Down into it, and deal with what's there. Folks - you might want to stuff some cloth or wax into your ears, since it is known that the harpy screech can sing and make you do what they want you to do, if you do not resist." She cuts some of the softer fabric from her undergarments, rolls pieces about 1" long and thick enough to fill, yet thin enough to fit into her ears. The world becomes muffled. Not totally silent, but quieter. She pulls out one earplug. "Zeoll, you are a bard. I have heard some bards can sing against the harpies, so they do not have as much power to captivate the mind, or soul, or whatever it is they try to trap with their music. Is this something you can do?" She awaits his reply, then replaces the earplug, and enters back into greater quiet. She also steels her soul to resist any musical manipulations. She herself is a singer, so she begins very softly humming, so as to warm her vocal cords, that perhaps she might counter any tonal spells the evil fowls may try to cast.
And climbs to the top of the area, glancing upwards to see if she can see what Honor referred to as an upper platform. Once as many are up as plan to ascend, she prepares to enter into the wood-surrounded dwelling now beneath her feet.
Regarding safety, she makes certain that each person has a rope secured about the waist, upper thighs, and torso, and that said rope is indeed tied securely, yet able to be adjusted, even removed, as the need may arise.
Mitch - The Twins HP 65/65 AC 26/12/24 Thursday April 28th, 2022 7:54:41 AM
The Twins do as told and stuff their ears.
SteveM - Elron | AC 21 (19 if raging), HP 49/49, DR 1/-- Thursday April 28th, 2022 7:53:41 PM
Elron ponders asking Zeoll if it's okay to burn the place now that they know it's not just a tree. Mundhildur distracts him from this line of thought with her talk of harpies and music. "Roosters is song birds, you know," he mentions -- a claim he has made before.
Seeing how there's one creature up and multiple down, he considers going up instead. Like Asimov said. "We could secure th' trap door, too, so no one down there could sneak up behind us."
Honor Bright (Kathy) Thursday April 28th, 2022 10:03:49 PM
"I agree--we go up first," Honor says. For now, she leaves her ears alone. She's not convinced the evil aura is another harpy, and if the group is quick enough, a harpy won't have time to sing her enchantment anyway.
To the Tree (DM Cayzle | Zeoll) Thursday April 28th, 2022 11:48:15 PM
"Sadly, as a Grreensingerr, I do not have the ability to counterr the song of harrpies. Irronic, huh?"
Zeoll leaves Bill alone at the top of the platform, with a command to "Guard."
The liontaur himself is last to ascend (in case the ladder breaks).
===== ===== ===== DM Post
I need an order of who goes up first. Ima assume the first one up opens the trap door. And if you have any prep or casting to do, please do so now!
If you are planning to secure the trap door going down before your ascent, please say how, and also how loud it will be.
SteveM - Elron | AC 21 (19 if raging), HP 49/49, DR 1/-- Friday April 29th, 2022 12:15:26 AM "Beggin' your pardon -- I mean, I know it's not polite t' ask, but. . . Bill's pretty big. I bet he weighs enough t' secure a trapdoor if he rests on it." That should also be no louder than whatever moving around they've been doing.
Elron's light, and willing to go first. He has no prep to do.
Asimov and Irony | Hugh | AC 17/13/15 HP 53/53 | AC 20/11/19 HP 35/35 Hardness 2 Friday April 29th, 2022 1:13:25 AM
Asimov says, "I'm loaded for damage and heals for the most part so I can get the device I need and use it when I need to. I guess I'll have to see what we are dealing with before we hit it."
Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant 7'4" atm) (Kim) AC 19 Touch 13 FF17 HP 58/58 Friday April 29th, 2022 6:18:25 AM
Mundhi is willing to be the first or among the first few to go through the trap door, Does the door appear to be secured from above, such that those within would have trouble getting out?
Mitch - The Twins HP 65/65 AC 26/12/24 Friday April 29th, 2022 7:19:34 AM
The Twins will go last as they have good ranged options and can serve as rearguard if the harpies have another exit and attack before everyone can cross.
Honor Bright (Kathy) Friday April 29th, 2022 9:45:25 PM
Since the Twins have volunteered to take the rear, Honor will be up front with Mundhildur.
To the Tree (DM Cayzle | Zeoll) Saturday April 30th, 2022 9:41:35 AM
Zeoll laughs and agrees with Elron. Bill will sit on the trap door below.
He waits at the bottom of the 20 ft ladder, not getting on until everyone else has ascended.
===== ===== ===== DM Post
Elron is at the top of the ladder, about to push open the trap door.
Mundhi is next, in Medium form, the DM presumes?
Then Honor and Asimov (with Irony). That fills up the ladder.
The Twins wait to go next, and then Zeoll after that.
With a move action, Elron pushes open the door. With another move action, he enters.
The room is empty of obvious foes. There is a ladder going up to a trap door above. And a single door to the west. The shape of the room is that af about a quarter circle; that is, it takes up just over a quarter of the circular platform. The walls, floors, and 10 ft ceiling is wood, no windows. Four wood and leather chairs are arranged casually around the room, and a small table sits in the center. It is completely dark except for the light coming in from the open trap door through which Elron just climbed -- that makes this room dimly lit, and, fair warning, a creature could be hiding in the shadows.
Elron is in the room. Those on the ladder will require a move action to climb up. The Twins and Zeoll would have to spend a full round climbing to get up and in. And the room is not huge ... call it 15 x 15 ish -- so it will be packed.
SteveM - Elron | AC 21 (19 if raging), HP 49/49, DR 1/-- d20+15=24 ; Saturday April 30th, 2022 10:21:53 AM
Elron looks at the shadows for anything hiding until the others are in. (Perception = 24) Honor needs to tell them which way to go to find the evil she sensed.
Mitch - The Twins HP 65/65 AC 26/12/24 Sunday May 1st, 2022 5:21:46 PM
The Twins remain outside for now as the rest file up and in.
Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant 7'4" atm) (Kim) AC 19 Touch 13 FF17 HP 58/58 d20+7=16 ; Monday May 2nd, 2022 12:11:38 AM
Munhi uses the ladder after Elrond. She has a throwing rock at the ready. She looks around.
=========== Perception: 16
Asimov and Irony | Hugh | AC 17/13/15 HP 53/53 | AC 20/11/19 HP 35/35 Hardness 2 d20+10=20 ; Monday May 2nd, 2022 2:45:44 AM
Asimov scrambles up when he can. He's ready to hit whatever may be hiding with his corrosive freeze ray pistol weird science creation assuming he perceives it. (Perception: 20)
Honor Bright (Kathy) Monday May 2nd, 2022 4:46:53 PM
Honor stays where she is for the moment, detecting for evil.
Up the Tree (DM Cayzle | Zeoll) Monday May 2nd, 2022 11:50:19 PM
Elron looks around the room, seeing no enemies. He hears, however, music through the door, the only door in the room.
That's also the direction that Honor detects evil.
Asimov and Mundhi join Elron in the room.
Honor, the Twins, and Zeoll remain either on the ladder or back down 20 ft on the top of the lower platform.
Up the Tree (DM Cayzle | Zeoll) Monday May 2nd, 2022 11:50:19 PM
Elron looks around the room, seeing no enemies. He hears, however, music through the door, the only door in the room.
That's also the direction that Honor detects evil.
Asimov and Mundhi join Elron in the room.
Honor, the Twins, and Zeoll remain either on the ladder or back down 20 ft on the top of the lower platform.
Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant 7'4" atm) (Kim) AC 19 Touch 13 FF17 HP 58/58 Tuesday May 3rd, 2022 1:24:19 AM
With the sound of music coming through, the singing giantess listens to the tune, the style, and words, if any, coming through. [It's nice to know these things. 'Music' falls very shy of specificity :-) ]
She unplugs her left ear enough so as to better hear what is being sung, though, perhaps, at the risk of being charmed. She tries to fortify herself against such, and plans to replug her ear if the song seems seductive...
She holds up her hand to signal to Elron and Asimov to wait before trying to open the door.
Asimov and Irony | Hugh | AC 17/13/15 HP 53/53 | AC 20/11/19 HP 35/35 Hardness 2 d20+13=19 ; Tuesday May 3rd, 2022 1:44:00 AM
Asimov gummed up his ears so he can't perceive the singing but he will check the door for mechanical traps.
(19 to check for mechanical traps)
Mitch - The Twins HP 65/65 AC 26/12/24 Tuesday May 3rd, 2022 8:12:25 AM
If the others give them space the Twins will advance up and through the trap door.
Honor Bright (Kathy) Tuesday May 3rd, 2022 5:06:23 PM
Honor climbs up to the trapdoor, but does not yet enter the room, because it'll be crowded in there. She continues focusing on detecting for evil.
SteveM - Elron | AC 21 (19 if raging), HP 49/49, DR 1/-- Tuesday May 3rd, 2022 6:01:55 PM
Elron hears music, but he doesn't feel compelled to do anything he wouldn't normally do. So much for harpies. He looks to Honor to confirm that the way to go is through the only door as he quietly walks over to it and waits for the others to signal.
Up the Tree (DM Cayzle | Zeoll) Tuesday May 3rd, 2022 9:41:39 PM
Zeoll plugs his ears ands waits at the bottom of the ladder.
===== ===== ===== DM Post
Elron, the Twins, Asimov, and Mundhi have all entered the small antechamber.
Mundhi unstoppers an ear long enough to sense that the music is instrumental -- pipes most likely.
From the top of the ladder, Honor points to the door. That's where the evil is.
Elron moves to the door, ready to enter.
Your DM thinks that Mundhi, Asimov, and Zeoll have stopped up their ears. Anyone else?
You are poised.
Mitch - The Twins HP 65/65 AC 26/12/24 Wednesday May 4th, 2022 7:56:31 AM
The Twins have also stopped up their ears. They draw their bow and indicate their readiness.
Honor Bright (Kathy) Wednesday May 4th, 2022 2:45:39 PM
Honor stays just below the trapdoor. She has not stopped up her ears.
Asimov and Irony | Hugh | AC 17/13/15 HP 53/53 | AC 20/11/19 HP 35/35 Hardness 2 Wednesday May 4th, 2022 5:27:32 PM
Asimov readies his corrosive freeze ray pistol. Irony stands at the ready.
SteveM - Elron | AC 21 (19 if raging), HP 49/49, DR 1/-- Wednesday May 4th, 2022 6:25:15 PM
Elron feels a bit foolish when Munhildur says the music is an instrument and not a harpy. He's still more worried about hearing what the others are saying, especially if they need to keep sneaking.
If he sees a harpy he'll be raging and yelling anyway -- maybe that will help.
Up the Tree (DM Cayzle | Zeoll) Wednesday May 4th, 2022 10:53:39 PM
The party continues to wait outside the door. The piping has stopped. How long do you wait before acting? And at that point, what do you do?
Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant 7'4" atm) (Kim) AC 19 Touch 13 FF17 HP 58/58 Thursday May 5th, 2022 3:48:20 AM
Mundhi places her hand on whatever device there may be to assist in opening of the door. Knob? Handle? Pull rope? Push plate? Whatever seems appropriate. The rock is in one hand, with a finger wrapped around her longspear. She signals to her friends what she is about to do, then opens the door, ready for action depending upon what she sees. If there is room beyond the door to step through so as to allow others to pass in, too, she does step through and make room.
If she sees a person inside, she is ready to throw a rock, if the person within looks worthy to receive a rock.
Mitch - The Twins HP 65/65 AC 26/12/24 Thursday May 5th, 2022 8:28:18 AM
The Twins prepare an action to shoot if the enemy attacks after the door is opened.
Honor Bright (Kathy) Thursday May 5th, 2022 2:24:50 PM
About the only action open to Honor at this point is to climb into the room, further crowding it, and making it more difficult for her companions. She decides not to do that, and instead stays where she is.
Asimov and Irony | Hugh | AC 17/13/15 HP 53/53 | AC 20/11/19 HP 35/35 Hardness 2 Thursday May 5th, 2022 5:18:42 PM
Asimov prepares to fire with his freeze ray corrosive pistol if whatever is behind the door is a threat and within range.
SteveM - Elron | AC 21 (19 if raging), HP 49/49, DR 1/-- Thursday May 5th, 2022 7:33:45 PM
Elron gets his whappin' stick out. He's then ready for something whappable to be behind the door.
Up the Tree (DM Cayzle | Zeoll) Friday May 6th, 2022 12:37:59 AM
Here is the room just before combat. I'll post the first turn in the morning.
Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant 7'4" atm) (Kim) AC 19 Touch 13 FF17 HP 58/58 Friday May 6th, 2022 9:46:41 AM
Mundi is atm medium-sized, not large. In the header, it shows 7'4". So. Map needs adjustment.
The Harpy Tree: Fight I
Up the Tree (DM Cayzle | Zeoll) d6=4 ; d6=1 ; Friday May 6th, 2022 1:03:45 PM
Zeoll is careful not to look up from the base of the ladder, seeing as he is a gentleman, after all.
===== ===== =====
Medium-sized Mundhi puts a hand on the pull handle of the door and awaits the signal.
The Twins ready a shot.
Asimov is set to shoot. a ray.
Elron gets out a weapon.
Honor and Zeoll wait outside the room.
Mundhi opens the door. Everybody in the room sees a rat swarm and, behind it, a harpy.
Asimov and Twins -- Make your readied attack rolls.
[OOC: It is easier on your DM if you make your rolls when you declare the readied action, not after it is triggered.]
The rat swarm spills out, swarming over Mundhi and Elron.
Mundhi, please take 4 hp damage and make a DC12 fort save.
Elron, please take 1 hp damage and make a DC12 fort save.
The harpy looks at you and starts singing. Everybody, including Zeoll and Honor, please make a DC15 Will save to avoid being captivated. If your ears are stoppered, you gain a +2 circumstance bonus on the save. If you fail, you simply move toward the harpy and then stand next to her.
Honor Bright (Kathy) d20+9=18 ; Friday May 6th, 2022 3:03:04 PM
Honor is not captivated [Will 18]. She climbs up through the trapdoor and steps to G-3. She draws Virtue.
Asimov and Irony | Hugh | AC 17/13/15 HP 53/53 | AC 20/11/19 HP 35/35 Hardness 2 d20+6=18 ; d3=2 ; d3=1 ; d20+5=10 ; d20+5=14 ; d8+4=12 ; Friday May 6th, 2022 4:54:53 PM
Readied Attack: 18 vs touch; 2 acid + 1 cold damage if hits
Asimov is fascinated by the Harpy despite his stopped ears (Will: 10) so he moves to stand next to her.
Irony being a construct is immune to mind effecting effect so it presumably slams into the rat swarm.
SteveM - Elron | AC 21 (19 if raging), HP 49/49, DR 1/-- d20+9=26 ; d20+8=25 ; d20+13=29 ; d4=2 ; d6=3 ; Friday May 6th, 2022 6:32:08 PM Fort save = 26; will save = 25
Elron gets angry. "Ya don't dump rats on ladies!"* And he closes with the harpy, so he can whap her upside the head.
Elron hits AC 29 and sparks sizzle down his stick as it makes contact -- 4 points bludgeoning (including 2 for rage strength) and 3 points electrical.
Effects: Rage 1/12
* Refering to his companions, not himself.
Mitch - The Twins HP 65/65 AC 26/12/24 d20+4=7 ; d20+10=23 ; d8=3 ; Sunday May 8th, 2022 10:46:59 PM
The Twins loose their arrow and are captivated directly afterwards (7 wills save, 23 to hit, 11 damage, target was first enemy to attack so rat swarm)
Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant 7'4" atm) (Kim) AC 19 Touch 13 FF17 HP 54/58 d20+6=10 ; d20+7=9 ; Sunday May 8th, 2022 11:53:03 PM
[We have only View capabilities on the map. Please consider changing hte link such that we can edit, so as to move our characters. Also, where is the harpy on the map? And the rats?]
Mundhi fails her will save, and walks over to stand beside the harpy and Asimov.
(Stupid harpy songs!) =========== Will save: 10 Perception: 9
Up the Tree (DM Cayzle | Zeoll) d20+12=17 ; d20+8=19 ; d20+3=20 ; d20+3=20 ; d6=2 ; d3=3 ; d3=3 ; Monday May 9th, 2022 1:53:03 AM
Zeoll's saving throw: 17 -- not captivated. He spends a round climbing the ladder.
DM Post ===== ===== =====
[OOC: Call me old school, but I like to be the only one adjusting the map. This is a google spreadsheet, so look down at the tabs. Each tab is a round.]
Round Zero Readied Actions ...
Asimov shoots the harpy for 3 energy damage
Twins shoot the rat swarm for 5 (half dam vs pierce, slash)
Round One Actions
Then, as the DM has already posted, the swarm flows over Mundhi and Elron, and the harpy sings.
Bottom of Round One, Mundhi, Twins, and Asimov are captivated and move toward the harpy.
Elron moves forward too and whaps the Harpy for 7.
Honor climbs up and draws a weapon.
Irony does 12 move damage to the swarm, dispersing it!
Zeoll climbs halfway up the ladder and will arrive after another round of climbing.
Round Two Actions
The Harpy maintains the captivation as a free action and rips into Elron with a full attack, using a club and her claws. She hits AC19, AC20, and AC20! All three hit the raging roosterkin!
Elron suffers (after DR applied) 1 +2 +2 = 5 hp damage.
=====
For the second half of round two, captivated people cannot do anything, sorry.
=====
Harpy -- AC18, Touch AC13 Damage: 10
Rat Swarm -- AC14 Damage: DISPERSED
Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant 7'4" atm) (Kim) AC 19 Touch 13 FF17 HP 54/58 Monday May 9th, 2022 5:52:05 AM
Mundhi peripherally feels glad the rats are gone. This music is very nice.
Mitch - The Twins HP 65/65 AC 26/12/24 Monday May 9th, 2022 7:06:22 AM
The Twins mutely feel annoyed at each other that the other twin didn't resist the song.
Honor Bright (Kathy) [AC 20; HP 50/50] d20+10=13 ; Monday May 9th, 2022 4:46:47 PM
Honor moves through the door but can't get close to the harpy. [Move to C-4]
She grabs Asimov and tries to yank him back away from the harpy, but her fingers slip away. [CMB check 13. Bleh.]
SteveM - Elron | AC 21 (19 if raging), HP 49/49, DR 1/-- d20+10=11 ; d3=3 ; d20+10=16 ; d4=4 ; d6=2 ; Monday May 9th, 2022 7:48:59 PM "Do you think her song can be heard in th'otha' -- " but Elron is too busy right now to try to figure out what one of these structures is called.
Well, he's landed one blow, and she's landed three. That won't do. Elron hasn't used this fancy new whappin' stick with a flury of blows, but that's about to change. . .
Hits AC 11 and 16 -- misses. But I forgot to include the +2 for rage strength. One hit. Maybe this thing isn't defective. Hits AC 18 for d4+d6+2 = 8 damage
Up the Tree (DM Cayzle | Zeoll) d20+8=26 ; d20+3=17 ; d20+3=11 ; d6=6 ; Tuesday May 10th, 2022 12:33:38 AM
Zeoll finishes his ascent and enters at the top of the ladder.
===== ===== ===== DM Post
Top of Round Two Actions (reposted)
The Harpy hits Elron thrice.
=====
Bottom of Round Two Actions (new)
Mundhi, Twins, and Asimov remain captivated.
Can Irony operate seperately without orders?
Honor moves up to C4. She tries to drag back a friend, but fails.
Elron continues to go toe-to-toe with the harpy! He hits for 8 damage.
Zeoll climbs up and squeezes through the trap door.
=====
Top of Round Three Actions
The harpy strikes back at Elron, hitting AC26. AC17, and AC11. One club strike lands, bruising Elron for 5 hp damage.
Up the Tree (DM Cayzle | Zeoll) Tuesday May 10th, 2022 12:34:30 AM
Zeoll starts singing his own song, giving allies a +1 to attacks and damage.
Asimov and Irony | Hugh | AC 17/13/15 HP 53/53 | AC 20/11/19 HP 35/35 Hardness 2 d20-3=12 ; d20+5=14 ; d20+5=8 ; Tuesday May 10th, 2022 12:55:07 AM
(OOC: Are we still captivated?)
If Asimov is still captivated he contiues to stand there.
(OOC 2: Irony and Asimov share a mental link so presumably unless Irony is in take watch mode while Asimov is sleeping I don't think it will necessarily attack the harpy unless Asimov orders it then again it does have mental scores of Int 7, Wis 10, Cha 11 and sense motive and perception at +5 and +5 so how about Irony tries to figure out what is going on and you can interpret the die rolls Mr. DM as to what Irony does?)
Irony tries to understand why its master is just standing there while the foreign bird woman attacks the friendly bird man.
Int Check: 12 Perception: 14 Sense Motive: 8
Mitch - The Twins HP 65/65 AC 26/12/24 Tuesday May 10th, 2022 8:12:58 AM
The Twins think evil thoughts in the general direction of the harpy who's rendered them helpless.
Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant 7'4" atm) (Kim) AC 19 Touch 13 FF17 HP 54/58 Tuesday May 10th, 2022 2:19:00 PM
Mundhildur looks at the nails on her left hand. They are in pretty good shape for someone who just spent a lot of time working with rope and climbing a tree and driving spikes. What is that tune?
Honor Bright (Kathy) [AC 20; HP 50/50] d20+11=27 ; Tuesday May 10th, 2022 5:18:40 PM
Honor tries again to grapple Asimov, this time with a little boost from Zeoll. This time, she succeeds [grapple check 27].
Having grappled him, she uses her move action to change places with him. Honor is now in B-5; Asimov is in C-4.
These shenanigans may or may not have provoked from the harpy, but Honor is now next to it.
SteveM - Elron | AC 21 (19 if raging), HP 39/49, DR 1/-- d20+10=16 ; d20+10=25 ; d4=2 ; d6=6 ; d4=4 ; d6=3 ; Tuesday May 10th, 2022 6:07:42 PM
Elron's a bit scuffed. While that may be normal, at the moment he doesn't like it. He lays into the harpy again.
(and once again forgets the rage bonus to hit -- comes from copying the bonuses from the last post) Hits AC 18 and 25, for 2+6+2 = 10 points and 4+3+2 = 9 points damage.
Up the Tree (DM Cayzle | Zeoll) d20+8=17 ; d20+3=7 ; d20+3=15 ; Tuesday May 10th, 2022 10:10:20 PM
DM Post
Top of Round Three Actions (reposted)
The Harpy hits Elron once.
=====
Bottom of Round Three Actions (new)
Zeoll inspires courage.
Mundhi, Twins, and Asimov remain captivated.
After taking a round to figure things out, Irony decides that the harpy is a foe to fight. But there's no way into there. So tight. [OOC: Feel free to run Irony as an active character.]
Honor manages to trade places and get next to the Harpy. Honor has not left a threatened square and thus triggers no AoOs. She sees that there is a wall and door to the east.
Elron swings and hits twice for 19 damage!
=====
Top of Round Four Actions
The harpy strikes back at Elron, missing three times.
Asimov and Irony | Hugh | AC 17/13/15 HP 53/53 | AC 20/11/19 HP 35/35 Hardness 2 Wednesday May 11th, 2022 1:31:50 AM
Asimov remains captivated.
Meanwhile Irony moves through the door and attempts to climb the wall with its 30 foot climb speed at C3 planning to go up and over the group surrounding the Harpy then climb back down to where the bird woman is within range of a slam attack if possible.
Mitch - The Twins HP 65/65 AC 26/12/24 Wednesday May 11th, 2022 7:34:13 AM
The Twins remain captivated and annoyed about it but they must admit it's impressive she can keep singing while fighting.
Honor Bright (Kathy) [AC 20; HP 50/50] d20+13=26 ; d8=5 ; d20+8=13 ; d8=8 ; Wednesday May 11th, 2022 3:01:58 PM
Wasting no time, Honor attacks the harpy. [Hit AC 26 for 9 damage; hit AC 13 for 12 damage.]
Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant 7'4" atm) (Kim) AC 19 Touch 13 FF17 HP 54/58 Wednesday May 11th, 2022 7:16:23 PM
Mundhi sees Honor dancing with Asimov. Good idea, the music is so captivating. She begins to spin in place in time to the beat.
SteveM - Elron | AC 21 (19 if raging), HP 39/49, DR 1/-- d20+12=17 ; d3=3 ; d20+12=17 ; Wednesday May 11th, 2022 7:36:24 PM
Elron has another go.
This time with up-to-date bonuses. . . AC 17 and 17. . . Misses.
Effects: Rage 4/12
Up the Tree (DM Cayzle | Zeoll) d20+2=16 ; d20+8=21 ; d20+3=8 ; d20+3=8 ; d6=2 ; Thursday May 12th, 2022 12:00:34 AM
Zeoll continues to sing ... and moves up and draws a spear that he throws at the harpy. Throwing into melee, he suffers a -4. The old taur hits AC16, a miss.
===== ===== ===== DM Post
Top of Round Four Actions (reposted)
The Harpy misses.
=====
Bottom of Round Four Actions (new)
Mundhi, Twins, and Asimov remain captivated.
Zeoll inspires courage, tosses a spear, misses.
Irony decides that the harpy is an enemy target. The construct climbs up and over and down to get in melee reach. It can attack next round, and it will be flanking with Honor.
Elron misses.
Honor hits for 9 damage.
=====
Top of Round Five Actions
The harpy swipes with two claws and a club at Honor. The club hits for 2 damage.
Asimov and Irony | Hugh | AC 17/13/15 HP 53/53 | AC 20/11/19 HP 35/35 Hardness 2 d20+7=23 ; d8+4=7 ; Thursday May 12th, 2022 12:11:16 AM
Asimov remains captivated.
Irony now with the target in range slams into the Harpy woman clocking her with a slam for 7 damage.
23 vs AC; hit 7 damage
SteveM - Elron | AC 21 (19 if raging), HP 39/49, DR 1/-- d20+12=16 ; d20+12=16 ; Thursday May 12th, 2022 7:10:10 AM "It's embarrassing, is what it is," Elron thinks as again the harpy eludes his flurry.
Mitch - The Twins HP 65/65 AC 26/12/24 Thursday May 12th, 2022 7:34:52 AM
Insert relevant comment here.
Honor Bright (Kathy) [AC 20; HP 50/50] d20+13=29 ; d20+8=9 ; d8=7 ; Thursday May 12th, 2022 2:52:58 PM
"Your foulness will pollute this land no more!" Honor cries, attacking again. [Hit AC 29 for 11 damage; miss with a natural 1]
SteveM - Elron | AC 21 (19 if raging), HP 39/49, DR 1/-- Thursday May 12th, 2022 7:37:21 PM Oops. . .
Effects: Rage 5/12
Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant 7'4" atm) (Kim) AC 19 Touch 13 FF17 HP 54/58 Friday May 13th, 2022 7:51:06 AM
La-la-la... How long do we get to just stand around?
Up the Tree (DM Cayzle | Zeoll) d20+2=11 ; Friday May 13th, 2022 8:25:08 AM
Zeoll continues singing (all gain +1 to hit and damage) and also tosses another spear into the fray. Hw misses.
===== ===== ===== DM Post
Top of Round Five Actions (reposted)
The Harpy hits Honor for 2. She looks disgusted at her relative lack of effectiveness.
=====
Bottom of Round Five Actions (new)
Mundhi, Twins, and Asimov remain captivated.
Zeoll inspires courage, tosses a spear, misses.
Irony attacks and hits for 7.
Elron misses.
Honor hits for 11 damage.
=====
Top of Round Six
The harpy looks around, as if she is looking for reinforcements that have not come. She curses rudely, throws down her club, and stops singing her beguiling song.
"FINE! I surrender! Mercy! Take whatever you want, just don't kill me!"
Honor Bright (Kathy) [AC 20; HP 48/50] Friday May 13th, 2022 4:12:12 PM
"I accept your surrender," Honor says. "But this isn't about us taking things from you. This is about you and your companions not taking things from other people."
SteveM - Elron | AC 21 (19 if raging), HP 39/49, DR 1/-- d20+11=31 ; d20+11=14 ; d20+11=30 ; d4+2=4 ; d4+2=3 ; Friday May 13th, 2022 4:55:34 PM
Elron hears Honor accept the harpy's surrender -- the same Harpy that's been killing people as far as he can tell -- and decides that a few more blows can't hurt. . .
Out of respect for his friend's judgement, he makes them non-lethal, unarmed attacks.
Hits AC 31 (crit not confirmed) and 30 for 4 and 3 points respectively of non-lethal damage.
Hopefully that knocks her down. Elron isn't going to trust her until she's tied up.
Effects: Rage 6/12
Mitch - The Twins HP 65/65 AC 26/12/24 Friday May 13th, 2022 7:41:31 PM
The Twins are slow to react to no longer being beguiled.
Asimov and Irony | Hugh | AC 17/13/15 HP 53/53 | AC 20/11/19 HP 35/35 Hardness 2 Monday May 16th, 2022 1:04:12 AM
Asimov doesn't really have anything readily available that deals non lethal damage but if Elron is going to keep attacking the Harpy then he is going to take a 5 foot step towards Zeoll and says to Irony, "Stand down. Honor accepted her surrender."
The minion reluctantly stops slamming into the bird woman seeing as how here was a foe that it could hit in a fight where it made some difference.
Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant 7'4" atm) (Kim) AC 19 Touch 13 FF17 HP 54/58 Monday May 16th, 2022 4:40:13 AM
Mundhildur finds the harpy's speaking voice less captivating than her singing voice. Since she has offered to surrender, and Honor has accepted, without further ceremony the Jotun says, "Surrender involves rope. Stand still while we accept your surrender." She proceeds to bind the harpy with hemp rope.
Up the Tree (DM Cayzle | Zeoll) Monday May 16th, 2022 7:16:22 PM
The harpy's surrender is accepted, she is whapped a couple more times, and then she submits to being tied up.
"Hey!" she caws, "Stop hitting! I surrendered! You tied me up!"
She seems both miffed and resigned, and sits down on the floor.
Now what?
Asimov and Irony | Hugh | AC 17/13/15 HP 53/53 | AC 20/11/19 HP 35/35 Hardness 2 Monday May 16th, 2022 11:34:13 PM
Asimov takes out his magic detector and searches the bound Harpy for anything that radiates magic.
He pulls the group aside out of earshot of the harpy and whispers, "The way I see it we either gag her since she has certain abilities which could be unfortunate to encounter later or she might raise an alarm or we question her for any useful information about the hideout, the boss and what exactly they are up to here and, then we gag her. Which one will it be?"
Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant 7'4" atm) (Kim) AC 19 Touch 13 FF17 HP 54/58 Tuesday May 17th, 2022 2:16:41 AM
"One moment," she says to Asimov. She pulls out a clean bag, wads it up, stuffs it in the harpy's mouth, and ties it around her head. "This is for a short time. I will be right back."
Then she goes to join Asimov. "All right, Asimov, let's do this. We surround her. I ask her questions - and you all can, too. First I tell her. 'Hello. You have a choice. You tell us what we need to know, we let you live. And you promise not to bother the people in or around the town you have been visited - and not their animals, either. You have killed people. That earns you death. You speak truth to us, and swear by whatever matters most to you to do as we ask, then, after keeping you tied up for a little while, we let you go.
"'You start singing, I slam you right away. Twice. Hard. That would make you dead. So, tell us truth, and swear to no longer attack people or their animals. You want to live, and keep your promise? Or die?'
"How does that sound, Asimov?" Mundhildur concludes.
Mitch - The Twins HP 65/65 AC 26/12/24 Tuesday May 17th, 2022 7:29:52 AM "We have no proof she's killed anyone." "Just suspicions." "A few marks in trees just means she was there." "Not that she did the deed." The Twins point out.
SteveM - Elron | AC 21 (19 if raging), HP 39/49, DR 1/-- Tuesday May 17th, 2022 8:19:37 AM
Elron lets his anger subside. "Honor said she was evil, an' we know evil harpies has been killin' folks. Does it matter if she personally did th' killin' when th' whole nest of 'em has benefited from it?"
Honor Bright (Kathy) [AC 20; HP 48/50] Tuesday May 17th, 2022 2:23:47 PM
"I accepted her surrender," Honor says. "I will not allow her to come to harm while she is our prisoner. We do need information, and I think I can get it from her. But nobody is to threaten or harm her. Is that clear?"
Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant 7'4" atm) (Kim) AC 19 Touch 13 FF17 HP 54/58 Wednesday May 18th, 2022 5:14:04 PM
"If she starts singing, Honor, I will punch her mouth," Mundhi says. "Otherwise, sure. Go for it."
Asimov and Irony | Hugh | AC 17/13/15 HP 53/53 | AC 20/11/19 HP 35/35 Hardness 2 Wednesday May 18th, 2022 11:16:13 PM
Asimov says to Munhildur, "Are Harpies omnivores? If not what is she supposed to eat with the promise you are trying to extract from her. I mean by all means yes do not have her kill sentient races or their livestock but if she is ethical in her hunting methods and only takes what she needs could she still hunt wild game?"
Up the Tree (DM Cayzle | Zeoll) Wednesday May 18th, 2022 11:22:31 PM
Asimov investigates the Harpy and discovers that yes, she has some magic items. A ring, magical pipes, and a potion.
Mundhi gags the harpy and talks about an interrogation.
The Twins point out that the party invaded her home and beat her down.
Steve points to Honor's detection and circumstantial evidence that is good enough for him.
Honor says she will do the questioning, and no one is to threaten the captive.
The harpy promises she will not hurt or kill people or animals that belong to people except in self defense. "Ask me your questions."
SteveM - Elron | AC 21 (19 if raging), HP 39/49, DR 1/-- Wednesday May 18th, 2022 11:27:53 PM
Elron keeps quiet. He doesn't know any good harpy jokes. But he does know a chicken joke. . . "Honor, your promise -- I can still tell her jokes, right?"
Mitch - The Twins HP 65/65 AC 26/12/24 Thursday May 19th, 2022 8:00:09 AM
The Twins will take up guard position at the door. They don't know if there are other harpies here after all.
Honor Bright (Kathy) [AC 20; HP 48/50] Thursday May 19th, 2022 2:04:12 PM
Honor smiles a little at Elron. "Your jokes are not actually harmful, so yes," she says.
She turns to the captive. "Thank you for your promise," she says. "What is your name?"
After that, she asks, "Who has been harming the people and animals in the area? Who has been taking their things?"
If the captive is involved, she asks, "Why did you decide to do all of this?"
Asimov and Irony | Hugh | AC 17/13/15 HP 53/53 | AC 20/11/19 HP 35/35 Hardness 2 d20+14=33 ; d20+14=28 ; d20+14=33 ; Friday May 20th, 2022 12:22:12 AM
Asimov turns his magic detecting device towards the items he found and tries to figure out what they are
Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant 7'4" atm) (Kim) AC 19 Touch 13 FF17 HP 54/58 Friday May 20th, 2022 7:15:01 PM
Mundhildur sits, legs crossed, near the harpy (still close enough to punch in the mouth if necessary), and listens.
SteveM - Elron | AC 21 (19 if raging), HP 39/49, DR 1/-- Monday May 23rd, 2022 8:14:54 PM
Elron ponders. Uncharacteristically, he doesn't give a running commentary on what he'd pondering. Could be a joke. Could be estimating how many feathers a harpy would have to lose to be rendered flightless. Could be wondering why he can't fly himself. Just ponders.
Up the Tree (DM Cayzle | Zeoll) Monday May 23rd, 2022 10:33:23 PM
The harpy is sullen and reluctant to talk. She says her name is Irith. She and her sisters were forced by the Mother Superior (some kind of Harpy Boss) to do those things. The Mother is on the uppermost level, the Roost.
The magic items are ring of protection +1, pipes of the sewers, potion of cure light wounds.
Asimov and Irony | Hugh | AC 17/13/15 HP 53/53 | AC 20/11/19 HP 35/35 Hardness 2 Tuesday May 24th, 2022 12:43:07 AM
Asimov says, "Well if she's telling the truth that would mean if we beat this Mother Superior then it will probably put an end to the coordinated attacks in the area. Also the pipes of the sewers totally explain the rats. Someone should probably hold onto the ring and the potion and since the pipes are pipes and Zeoll is musically inclined maybe we should give them to him?"
Mitch - The Twins HP 65/65 AC 26/12/24 Tuesday May 24th, 2022 8:34:30 AM "It seems we should seek out this mother." The Twins comment.
Up the Tree (DM Cayzle | Zeoll) Tuesday May 24th, 2022 9:12:10 AM
Zeoll gladly accepts the pipes.
"I'll have to practice a little though."
Honor Bright (Kathy) [AC 20; HP 48/50] Tuesday May 24th, 2022 12:34:32 PM
"Thank you, Irith," Honor says. "We'll have a word with this Mother Superior of yours, and then come talk to you again. Are there any traps or other protections in the Roost that we should know about?"
Up the Tree (DM Cayzle | Zeoll) Tuesday May 24th, 2022 9:29:02 PM
Zeoll is eager to keep on going up.
"We have a tarrget. Let's go."
===== ===== ===== DM POST
The harpy asks to be released.
"Look, I promise never to hurt humans or elves or dwarves or anyone else except in self defense. You got my stuff and my info. So now can I please go? Please? If you leave me tied up, someone could come and kill me easy!"
"At least untie me and I promise to wait here until you get back, or until sundown, ok?"
Asimov and Irony | Hugh | AC 17/13/15 HP 53/53 | AC 20/11/19 HP 35/35 Hardness 2 Tuesday May 24th, 2022 10:48:36 PM
Asimov says, "I vote we the harpy go. Do you really think the other harpies under Mother Superior will look kindly on her given that she betrayed so much to us? She'd be better off on her own getting far away from here."
Asimov also says, "I'm also with Zeoll regarding pressing on."
SteveM - Elron | AC 21 (19 if raging), HP 39/49, DR 1/-- Tuesday May 24th, 2022 11:32:22 PM
Elron shudders. "I'd hate, I say, I'd hate t' have companions who'd kill me for talkin' t' folks after gettin' tied up. Say, Honor, d'you sense any more evil goin'up?"
Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant 7'4" atm) (Kim) AC 19 Touch 13 FF17 HP 54/58 Wednesday May 25th, 2022 2:15:20 AM
Mundhi agrees. "Fly away, Irith. Don't come back for a day at least." She gives her some food from her bag. "You shouldn't starve, either."
"Give me a few minutes," Mundhildur requests from her friends. "I used much of the climbing rope for redundancy. It will be easy enough to reuse it below after using it above." She works her way down, and pulls up the rope to help in the ascent above. She still has some spikes left, but will have to depend upon branches above as well. She begins to set, tie, climb, taking advantage as well of Irony's skills, then assisting others to go higher.
How much vertical do we have to go from here to there?
Mitch - The Twins HP 65/65 AC 26/12/24 Wednesday May 25th, 2022 8:08:32 AM
The Twins have no opinion either way on the harpy's fate. They continue to stand guard while the others prepare.
Up the Tree (DM Cayzle | Zeoll) Wednesday May 25th, 2022 1:48:18 PM
You let the harpy go, and she bows and thanks you. Then she flies away.
The level above is another 20 ft up. You see that there is a ladder in the room that was previously sadly overlooked by your humble narrator.
There is another door in the harpy's room that you have not opened. Also, no evil on this layer or above.
Honor Bright (Kathy) [AC 20; HP 48/50] Wednesday May 25th, 2022 1:58:01 PM
Honor reasons that if there were other harpies or other foes behind that other door, they would have made themselves known by now. But she keeps Virtue in her hand as she opens it.
Asimov and Irony | Hugh | AC 17/13/15 HP 53/53 | AC 20/11/19 HP 35/35 Hardness 2 d20+10=28 ; Thursday May 26th, 2022 1:10:34 AM
Asimov keeps his eyes peeled as Honor opens the door.(Perception: 28)
SteveM - Elron | AC 21 (19 if raging), HP 39/49, DR 1/-- Thursday May 26th, 2022 7:52:00 AM
Elron watches as the door is opened.
Mitch - The Twins HP 65/65 AC 26/12/24 Thursday May 26th, 2022 8:13:09 AM
The Twins will go to the ladder and look up.
Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant 7'4" atm) (Kim) AC 19 Touch 13 FF17 HP 54/58 d20+7=11 ; Thursday May 26th, 2022 6:53:03 PM
[Huh - thought I posted last night...]
Mundhildur is ready at the door. If it looks reasonably safe, she will step inside, rock in one hand, longspear in the other.
============= Perception: 11
Up the Tree (DM Cayzle | Zeoll) Thursday May 26th, 2022 9:06:32 PM
Honor opens the last door on this platform.
The Twins climb the ladder to the uppermost level.
Everyone else keeps alert.
Honor sees that the room beyond the door is a store room. There is salted and smoked meat hanging here, and some cloth mostly from stained clothes. And a chest with a flat lid, evidently in use as a small table, judging by the butcher knife and bloodstains. It would be just the right height for a harpy standing on talons.
The Twins look down and see Bill the Camel sitting on the trap door, with something thumping under him. He looks pleased with hmself.
Looking up, there is another trap door in the floor of the platform above you. This one is smallest in diameter of all.
Asimov and Irony | Hugh | AC 17/13/15 HP 53/53 | AC 20/11/19 HP 35/35 Hardness 2 d20+10=14 ; d20+13=17 ; Thursday May 26th, 2022 11:28:51 PM
Asimov checks the flat chest for traps (14 or 17 versus mechanical traps) then attempts to open it up (Disable Device: 17)
Mitch - The Twins HP 65/65 AC 26/12/24 Friday May 27th, 2022 7:58:50 AM
The Twins wait for the rest.
SteveM - Elron | AC 21 (19 if raging), HP 39/49, DR 1/-- Friday May 27th, 2022 5:52:18 PM
Elron wonders if they salted their own meat -- in which case he doesn't want to know what kind it is. Traps aren't his thing, and he trusts his friends to handle any. Meanwhile, he ponders jokes about cured meat.
Is there a ladder or some way up to that next trap door?
Up the Tree (DM Cayzle | Zeoll) Saturday May 28th, 2022 12:44:46 AM
Zeoll inspires competence in Asimov regarding his lock-picking ability.
===== ===== =====
DM Post.
Alas, the lock defeats the nimble-fingered fellow. It looks to be a DC30 lock. At least, no traps.
There is a ladder down to Bill the Camel and another ladder going up to the next platform, notes Elron.
Asimov and Irony | Hugh | AC 17/13/15 HP 53/53 | AC 20/11/19 HP 35/35 Hardness 2 Sunday May 29th, 2022 8:28:52 PM
(OOC: Can I take 20? That would put me at 33)
Asimov asks, "Do we have some time for me to work on the chest? If so I think I can get into the contents."
If the party agrees Asimov will take 20 against the lock
Mitch - The Twins HP 65/65 AC 26/12/24 d20+10=30 ; d8=4 ; Monday May 30th, 2022 7:46:52 AM
The Twins draw their bow to shoot if anything rushes at them once the trap door is open (prepared action 30 to hit, 7 damage)
SteveM - Elron | AC 21 (19 if raging), HP 39/49, DR 1/-- Monday May 30th, 2022 9:49:16 AM "If'n we're quiet, we might be able t' wait. Depends on how quickly th' harpies below figure out how t' alert anyone above. Goes without sayin' that Bill may be th' first target o' anyone alerted that way."
Honor Bright (Kathy) [AC 20; HP 48/50] Monday May 30th, 2022 3:29:38 PM
"Let's deal with this Mother Superior first," Honor urges. "Then we'll know we have time to catalog what's in here."
Asimov and Irony | Hugh | AC 17/13/15 HP 53/53 | AC 20/11/19 HP 35/35 Hardness 2 Monday May 30th, 2022 9:38:12 PM
Asimov says, "What's inside the chest could help us fight Mother Superior."
Up the Tree (DM Cayzle | Zeoll) Monday May 30th, 2022 11:56:57 PM
Zeoll says, "Bill can do it! He'll keep that doorr shut!" The liontaur goes out to the room with the ladder down to keep an eye on Bill.
===== ===== =====
Asimov thinks about taking 2 minutes [20 rounds] to get that lock open. He starts working.
The Twins stand in the room with the trap doors, looking down and ready to shoot if the enemy gets by Bill.
Elron does not realize that some creature or creatures already knows that the door is being held. You have already heard them thumping on the trap door under Bill. [In the DM Post of 26 May.]
Zeoll stands with the Twins watching Bill. The thumping on the door under the camel continues.
Honor says that the Mother Superior above is the real target.
You are one round into the 20 rounds needed to pick that lock.
The thumping on the trap door from underneath is mostly ineffectual, but every once in a while a thump is strong enough to crack the door a little. In enough time, the enemy under Bill *will* break through.
What do you do?
Mitch - The Twins HP 65/65 AC 26/12/24 Tuesday May 31st, 2022 7:21:09 AM
(I meant the locked door, but didn't realize there were enemies outside the other one).
"If they want in, let them." "We prepare and attack as soon as they enter." "It's advantageous for us."
Up the Tree (DM Cayzle | Zeoll) Tuesday May 31st, 2022 12:19:07 PM
The door from the harpy room has been opened. Inside was a storeroom with a chest. The chest has a lock that is proving tough to open.
Back in the first room of this level, there is a trap door going down -- down there is the roof of the level below, which has a trap door and Bill the Camel sitting on it. The thumping is at that door.
ALSO in that first room is a trap door going up, and there's a ladder you can climb up to get there. That's where the harpy told you that the Mother Superior is.
Hope that helps; sorry for the confusion.
Honor Bright (Kathy) [AC 20; HP 48/50] Tuesday May 31st, 2022 4:25:41 PM
"Does anyone have a way to fasten that door shut? Anyone besides Asimov, I mean, who needs to keep on his task?"
Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant 7'4" atm) (Kim) AC 19 Touch 13 FF17 HP 54/58 Tuesday May 31st, 2022 9:28:14 PM
"Let's deal with those below before we deal with her above," Mundhi recommends. "Or, at least some of us do so. Keep working on that chest, Asimov." The Jotunar heads to where Bill guards the trapdoor. She speaks through the cracks along the trapdoor. "Hello. Who are you? What do you need?" Her rock and longspear are in hand.
Asimov and Irony | Hugh | AC 17/13/15 HP 53/53 | AC 20/11/19 HP 35/35 Hardness 2 Tuesday May 31st, 2022 11:44:16 PM
Asimov keeps working on the chest. "Go help the others Irony." he instructs his mechanical minion.
Mitch - The Twins HP 65/65 AC 26/12/24 Wednesday June 1st, 2022 8:28:28 AM
The Twins don't understand why we're bothering with the chest while attackers try to get in. Surely the chest can wait until after they've dealt with the enemy. They say so to the others.
Honor Bright (Kathy) [AC 20; HP 48/50] Wednesday June 1st, 2022 1:49:11 PM
Honor shrugs. "There's limited space to fight in anyway. Let him keep on the chest."
She positions herself so she can see the trapdoor. [OOC: I'm assuming that it's too cramped down there for her to try to get into melee range.]
SteveM - Elron | AC 21 (19 if raging), HP 39/49, DR 1/-- d20+15=22 ; Wednesday June 1st, 2022 8:14:33 PM
Mundhi has left the structure to go talk to the harpies that Bill has trapped. Asimov is working on the chest. The Twins think the chest can wait. Honor is watching one of the trapdoors, either the one above or the one below -- but the one above seems more likely.
Elron closes his eyes and tries to judge how noisy things are. This is kind of difficult, considering he's usually the noisy one. Mostly, any banging going on below -- so if Mundhi distracts the harpies from that, it's a good thing.
He listens especially for movement above. (perception = 22)
Up the Tree (DM Cayzle | Zeoll) Wednesday June 1st, 2022 10:40:14 PM
[OOC: I've made a side view of the tree so you can see how the three levels relate. Check it out!
Asimov keeps on working on that lock. He sends Irony to the group.
The Twins think he should forget the chest for now.
Mundhi climbs down the ladder and stands next to Bill the Camel. The trap door is under Bill. Mundhi hears strikes (mostly ineffectual) against the trap door from underneath. She tries to call through, but the wood is sturdy and Bill is thick, so ... maybe someone below heard her?
Elron and Honor sense no movement or noise from above.
Asimov and Irony | Hugh | AC 17/13/15 HP 53/53 | AC 20/11/19 HP 35/35 Hardness 2 Wednesday June 1st, 2022 11:57:04 PM
Asimov says, "Yes we could fight whatever is trying to come through now, but if we can delay them maybe the chest will have some useful items for fighting whatever."
He continues to work on the chest for now while Irony stays with the others in case of battle.
Mitch - The Twins HP 65/65 AC 26/12/24 Thursday June 2nd, 2022 10:21:01 AM
The Twins wait.
Asimov and Irony | Hugh | AC 17/13/15 HP 53/53 | AC 20/11/19 HP 35/35 Hardness 2 Thursday June 2nd, 2022 10:03:24 PM
Time slows down as Asimov fiddles with the lock (OOC: checking in)
SteveM - Elron | AC 21 (19 if raging), HP 39/49, DR 1/-- d20+10=19 ; Friday June 3rd, 2022 12:01:28 AM
Elron carefully and quietly (stealth = 19) climbs the ladder in the room with the chest and waits below the trap door.
Up the Tree (DM Cayzle | Zeoll) Friday June 3rd, 2022 12:57:12 PM
Zeoll is worried about Bill, and climbs down to him, taking his time so as not to fall.
===== ===== ===== DM Post
The current situation is this:
Asimov is in the storeroom of the Mid-Level. He is continuing to work slowly and carefully on the lock. Let's say three rounds have passed.
Irony, Honor, and the Twins are in the outer room of the Mid-Level. There are trap doors and ladders above and below. They are clustered around the open door looking down at Bill, Zeoll, and Mundhi.
Zeoll, Bill, and Mundhi are on the roof of the Lowermost Level.
Zeoll and Mundhi are standing next to Bill, who is sitting on the trap door. Something is trying to batter through the trap door from within. Mundhi is trying to communicate through the trap-door.
Elron heard nothing above -- he has quietly ascended and is right under the trap door that opens into the Top Level.
At this point, the things in the Lowermost Level have been trying to break through the trap door for about six rounds. They are swinging three clubs a round that do 1d6 damage. The trap door has hardness 5 and ten hp. For any given blow, there is a 1 on 6 chance of doing a point of damage to the door. In a round, therefore, average damage to the trap door is 0.5 hp. At that rate, the door will give way in 20 rounds, statistically speaking. Six of those rounds have passed. Eventually, in about 14 rounds, that door will be no more. Honestly, before that happens, when the door gains the "broken" condition, there's a good chance Bill will collapse it and fall through!
Trap door has taken 2 hp damage out of 10.
BUT!! Mundhi is calling through the cracks! What she hears after calling down ... is a beautiful sound in return. It is faint through the door, so only she can hear it, seeing as she is trying to listen. Mundhi, please make a Will Save DC15 or be affected by the harpy's tune. Please gain a +2 bonus on the save because it is coming through a cracked trapdoor. If you still have your earplugs in, add another +2.
Honor Bright (Kathy) [AC 20; HP 48/50] Friday June 3rd, 2022 2:31:40 PM
"Twins, you are far better at archery than I am," Honor says. "Can you cover the trapdoor below while I climb down and try to help Mundhildur?"
Honor begins carefully climbing down toward the lower trapdoor. If her presence makes the area too crowded, she stays on the ladder.
Mitch - The Twins HP 65/65 AC 26/12/24 Saturday June 4th, 2022 6:24:07 PM
The Twins prepare to provide cover fire as requested
Asimov and Irony | Hugh | AC 17/13/15 HP 53/53 | AC 20/11/19 HP 35/35 Hardness 2 Sunday June 5th, 2022 9:36:39 PM
Asimov continues to work on the lock.
Irony uses its climb speed to climb down to the next level but remain away from the trap door and maybe still attached to the walls
SteveM - Elron | AC 21 (19 if raging), HP 39/49, DR 1/-- Sunday June 5th, 2022 10:28:07 PM
Elron, at the upper trapdoor, is feeling a bit like maybe he isn't the center of attention.
Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant 7'4" atm) (Kim) AC 19 Touch 13 FF17 HP 54/58 d20+8=20 ; d20+8=15 ; d20+8=26 ; d20+8=27 ; 2d6+4=7 ; 2d6+4=8 ; 2d6+4=15 ; Monday June 6th, 2022 5:19:07 AM
"All right, they are trying to sing me into submission," Mundhildur says to those around her, "so that they then can kill the rest of you."
"Move please, Bill," she says as she nudges him. As the camel scoots aside (either from her request, or waiting until Zeoll asks him to move), she starts screaming at the top of her lungs, opens the trapdoor, and jumps down on top of whoever is below her, longspear and rock in hand, but bashing against whatever wicked harpies are trying to seduce her. Mundhildur attacks like a screaming banshee, sound versus sound, and slamming into one or more of those below 3 times: AC 16 (forgot to add +1 from attacking from above) for 7 hp AC 26 for 8 hp AC 27 for 15 hp damage
...along with whatever her 380 pounds might do.
================== Will save: 20
Asimov and Irony | Hugh | AC 17/13/15 HP 53/53 | AC 20/11/19 HP 35/35 Hardness 2 Monday June 6th, 2022 9:50:07 PM
Time slows down for Asimov once again as he struggles with the lock. (OOC: Checking in)
Up the Tree (DM Cayzle | Zeoll) Monday June 6th, 2022 10:32:47 PM
Zeoll gapes at Mundhi. "Open the door while more than half the parrty is not even here?"
===== ===== ===== DM Post
Honor gets halfway down the ladder. Irony is behind her.
Asimov continues to work on the lock.
The Twins are set to shoot from above.
Elron is beginning to realize that he is about 50 feet and two levels above the action.
Mundhi saves vs the harpy song and asks Bill to move aside.
Zeoll gapes at Mundhi and tells Bill to stay right where he is!
The banging from below continues.
OOC: We're not (quite) in combat yet, so we do not have to go round by round. In fact, let's advance another few rounds.
Honor and Irony have descended and are standing next to Bill, Zeoll, and Mundhi.
Elron may descend as well if he likes.
The trap door has taken another hp of damage.
Does anyone in addition to Mundhi want to open the door and fall -- literally -- on your foes?
SteveM - Elron | AC 21 (19 if raging), HP 39/49, DR 1/-- d20+15=29 ; Monday June 6th, 2022 10:59:21 PM
Elron heads down to where the others didn't follow him up from, and finds Asimov still struggling with the lock. He had been expecting a more measured and methodical approach that would eventually open it from Asimov -- continuing to struggle is something Elron himself might do. "Want me to whap that?"
He continues on down to where the others are after checking in with Asimov, pausing when he first sees them to make sure it don't look like they're under some harpy-spell. (Perception = 29)
Mitch - The Twins HP 65/65 AC 26/12/24 Tuesday June 7th, 2022 4:58:58 AM
The Twins are in favor of dealing with any enemies before working on stuff like the lock that isn't really that urgent.
Honor Bright (Kathy) [AC 20; HP 48/50] Tuesday June 7th, 2022 2:20:09 PM
"Mundhildur, we haven't scouted the area below the trapdoor," Honor says. "We don't know if there's room to fight down there. Let's let them come to us."
Up the Tree (DM Cayzle | Zeoll) Tuesday June 7th, 2022 11:24:39 PM
Asimov keeps on working. The Twins are braced from above. Everyone else is gathered on the roof of the lower level.
"I gotta get Bill off that trrap doorr beforre it buckles," says Zeoll.
"And maybe everrybody oughta stuff theirr ears?"
Asimov and Irony | Hugh | AC 17/13/15 HP 53/53 | AC 20/11/19 HP 35/35 Hardness 2 Wednesday June 8th, 2022 12:15:44 AM
Asimov stuffs his ears again, then goes back to the lock.
Irony is immune to mind effecting being a construct but is leary about intentionally falling on foes especially if it doesn't know what is below.
Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant 7'4" atm) (Kim) AC 19 Touch 13 FF17 HP 54/58 Wednesday June 8th, 2022 4:59:56 AM
As soon as people are ready, and Bill moves, Mundhi does as earlier described.
Mitch - The Twins HP 65/65 AC 26/12/24 Wednesday June 8th, 2022 7:14:55 AM
The Twins never unstuffed their ears from last time since they expected to move on quickly.
Honor Bright (Kathy) [AC 20; HP 48/50] Wednesday June 8th, 2022 4:33:06 PM
Honor moves adjacent to the trapdoor and draws Virtue, but leaves her ears alone.
SteveM - Elron | AC 21 (19 if raging), HP 39/49, DR 1/-- Wednesday June 8th, 2022 9:56:39 PM
Elron watches, at the back of the group relative to any whappin' opportunities. He's not entirely sure they shouldn't be attacking whoever's in the upper treehouse first.
The Harpy Tree: Fight II
Up the Tree (DM Cayzle | Zeoll) d6=5 ; d6=2 ; Thursday June 9th, 2022 12:06:28 AM
Zeoll stuffs Bill's ears too. He readies an action to start using Inspire Courage (+1 to hit and damage) as soon as he hears or sees an enemy. Then he tells Bill to get up and step to one side.
===== ===== ===== DM Post
Bill gets up and steps aside. The trap door slams open as a harpy under it slams it. Zeoll starts singing.
Mundhi crashes down with a wild attack! She is jumping down, so that's a move action, leaving her with a standard action to make one attack on the way down. She crashes into a harpy on the ladder, inflicting knocking it to the floor. It takes 8 damage as well as 5 nonlethal damage from the fall, and it is prone.
Mundhi takes 2 nonlethal damage from the fall and is also prone.
One harpy starts singing. Everybody (except Irony and Asimov) please make a DC15 Will save or be captivated. +2 if you have stuffing in your ears.
On the map, there is the roof and the level below it.
Harpy 1 (AC13) is clinging to the other side of the ladder. No damage.
Harpy 2 (AC13, prone) is on the floor with Mundhi. 8 damage plus 5 nonlethal.
Harpy 3 (AC13) is standing on a wardrobe. No damage.
People on the roof can attack Harpy 1 and Harpy 3 but they have cover. (+4 AC). They can attack as well, and you have cover too.
Mundhi and Harpy 2 are in melee.
The Twins can shoot, but the only clear shot is at Harpy 2, prone, in melee with Mundhi.
Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant 7'4" atm) (Kim) AC 19 Touch 13 FF17 HP 52/58 d20+9=17 ; d20+9=26 ; d20+9=19 ; d20+9=17 ; 2d6+5=9 ; 2d6+5=10 ; 2d6+5=10 ; Thursday June 9th, 2022 5:58:40 AM
Mundhi saves (keep in mind she is making, as a trained singer, and one with excellent lungs, a tremendous amount of noise. She may not be a trained bard, but I am thinking her vocal exercise may partially drown out the harpy song. So, I've taken a +2 on her roll due to her singing. DM may approve or disapprove, as he chooses.
Three slams vs Harpy 2: AC 26 for 9 hp AC 19 for 10 hp AC 17 for 10 hp
Will save 17/15
========== Edit: Fixed hit points in header
Mitch - The Twins HP 65/65 AC 26/12/24 d20=3 ; Thursday June 9th, 2022 7:47:54 AM
The Twins once again fail the roll and become useless for the fight.
SteveM - Elron | AC 21 (19 if raging), HP 39/49, DR 1/-- d20+8=20 ; d20+11=13 ; Thursday June 9th, 2022 5:46:39 PM
(will save = 20)
Elron momentarily ponders whether it does Mundhildur any good to chase the harpies that have half-emerged back into the room with her, which might be their response to an attack. But it's an opportunity to whap something, and he can't pass that up.
Elron advances to where he can try to hit Harpy-1, and swings at it. Hits AC 13, obviously a miss with the cover.
Honor Bright (Kathy) [AC 20; HP 48/50] d20+9=27 ; d20+12=13 ; d20+7=20 ; d8=2 ; Thursday June 9th, 2022 6:54:57 PM
Honor is not captivated. She attacks Harpy 1, hitting once for 9 damage.
Asimov and Irony | Hugh | AC 17/13/15 HP 53/53 | AC 20/11/19 HP 35/35 Hardness 2 d20+5=20 ; d8+4=12 ; Thursday June 9th, 2022 10:40:35 PM
Asimov keeps working on the lock, he figures maybe he'll find arrows of harpy slaying or something.
Irony climbs down the wall with his climb speed and if able to slams into one of the harpies below
20 vs AC; 12 Damage
Up the Tree (DM Cayzle | Zeoll) d20+3=21 ; d20+14=30 ; d20=17 ; d4=2 ; d20=20 ; d20=3 ; d20=18 ; d20=18 ; d6-2=3 ; d20+2=17 ; Sunday June 12th, 2022 11:11:22 PM
DC15 Will Save at +2 ...
Bill gets a 21! Zeoll gets a 30.
Bill spits at Harpy 1. His ranged touch attack normally at +4 is at +0 considering the -4 penalty for cover. He hits touch AC17! Harpy 1 has a -2 on attacks, damage, saves, and checks for 2 rounds.
Zeoll reads a scroll of good hope. It gives everybody a +2 morale bonus on saves, attacks, skills, and weapon damage. It does not stack with the +1 save bonus vs fear / charm from Inspire Courage, but it does stack with the +1 damage and attacks. So that's a total +2 saves and skills; +3 damage and attacks,
===== ===== ===== DM Post
The Twins are affected by the harpy song and want to descend. They start down the ladder.
Everyone else saves. Mundhi, your base save is +4. You gain +2 from stopped ears and +1 from Zeoll's song. That's +7 total. You rolled an 8, so you just made your save. And in the future, your save will be at +7 because of the Good Hope boost.
Mundhi, you start the round prone, just like Harpy 2 next to you. Since you are making a full attack, I assume you are doing so while lying down. That means at -4 to hit. However, the harpy is prone too, and has a -4 to AC. Also, why do you have three slam attacks? I think it is just two. Your two slam attacks hit for 19 damage. With the damage and nonlethal damage she took last round, she is out! Mundhi is still prone.
Elron reaches through the trap door and whaps Harpy 1, and misses.
Honor hits singing Harpy 1 for 9 damage. (That roll hits even if you did not include the -4 cover penalty.)
Irony attacks Harpy 3 and hits for 12, even with the cover.
Bill spits at Harpy 1, and Zeoll spreads Good Hope.
=====
Harpy 1, currently singing, attacks Honor (at -6 for spit and cover) and manages to land one blow, inflicting 3 damage to Honor.
Harpy 2 is down for the count.
Harpy 3 starts singing! Everybody please make another DC15 Will save or be entranced. Remember, +2 stuffed ears, +2 Good Hope.
=====
You see that there is a regular door into this room. It is ajar, and if you make a DC18 Perception check, Highlight to display spoiler: {You see another harpy peeking out, fingering something in her hand.}
You see that the ladder continues down to a lower room. Dire rats climb up into the room, stand right next to Mundhi. They do not attack. They just stare at Harpy 1. Some stare at Harpy 2.
=====
On the map, there is the roof and the level below it.
Harpy 1 (AC13) is clinging to the other side of the ladder. Sickened, 9 damage.
Harpy 2 (AC13, prone) is on the floor with Mundhi. 27 damage plus 5 nonlethal = OUT!!
Harpy 3 (AC13) is standing on a wardrobe. 12 damage.
People on the roof can attack Harpy 1 and Harpy 3 but they have cover. (+4 AC). They can attack as well, and you have cover too.
Asimov and Irony | Hugh | AC 17/13/15 HP 53/53 | AC 20/11/19 HP 35/35 Hardness 2 d20+5=23 ; d8+4=10 ; Monday June 13th, 2022 9:16:09 PM
Asimov keeps working on the lock while Irony climbs down to the next level to slam into the nearby harpy.
(23 vs AC; 10 damage)
SteveM - Elron | AC 21 (19 if raging), HP 39/49, DR 1/-- d20+10=20 ; d20+10=20 ; d4=3 ; d6=3 ; d4=2 ; d6=6 ; Monday June 13th, 2022 10:25:01 PM
For the moment Elron tries attacking through the trap door -- he may try to move down later if this seems too difficult.
Flurry of blows vs H1 with cover. . . AC 16 and 16 (forgot to apply the -4, maybe?) for a total of 3+3+2+6 = 14 damage (bludgeoning and electrical).
Mitch - The Twins HP 65/65 AC 26/12/24 Tuesday June 14th, 2022 7:23:19 AM
Beep Boop, nothing to see here.
Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant 7'4" atm) (Kim) AC 19 Touch 13 FF17 HP 52/58 d20+8=27 ; d20+10=16 ; 4d6+7=16 ; Tuesday June 14th, 2022 10:33:49 AM
Mundhildur saves versus the blasted harpy's seductive song (Will save 27/DC 15), stands (move action), then throws her stone at the singing harpy #3, hitting AC 16 for 16 hp damage.
Question: In her standing, can she get over to E13? If so, that is where she stands.
P.S.: As you said Harpy #2, with the damage she has taken, is 'OUT!' - I took that to mean she is unconscious. Therefore, I took the later statement that Mundhi and #2 are in combat to mean something like 'Mundhi can hit the unconscious harpy if she wants, and the harpy may strike back in her dreams.' That is why she is transferring her attention elsewhere. Let sleeping harpies lie. They lie when they're awake, too, sometimes.
Honor Bright (Kathy) [AC 20; HP 45/50] d20+11=24 ; d20+15=33 ; d20+10=13 ; d8=5 ; Tuesday June 14th, 2022 1:21:18 PM
Honor resists this harpy's song, too. To celebrate, she attacks harpy 3. [Hit AC 33 for 12 damage; hit AC 13 which misses due to cover.]
SteveM - Elron | AC 21 (19 if raging), HP 39/49, DR 1/-- d20+10=15 ; Tuesday June 14th, 2022 7:35:18 PM
Hmm. . . Seem to have missed the need for a saving throw earlier. Made it (just) with a 15.
Asimov and Irony | Hugh | AC 17/13/15 HP 53/53 | AC 20/11/19 HP 35/35 Hardness 2 Tuesday June 14th, 2022 8:37:46 PM
Time slows down for Asimov and Irony (OOC: Checking In)
Up the Tree (DM Cayzle | Zeoll) d20+5=16 ; d20+16=33 ; d20=3 ; d20+1=6 ; d20+1=13 ; d20+1=16 ; d20+1=14 ; d20+1=15 ; d20+1=11 ; d20+1=14 ; Tuesday June 14th, 2022 11:06:45 PM
DC15 Will Saves at +4 ...
Bill gets a 16! Zeoll gets a 33.
Bill spits at Harpy 3. He misses.
Zeoll casts a Will DC18 Hideous Laughter on Harpy 1.
===== ===== ===== DM Post
The fascinated Twins finish descending and hop down next to Honor and Zeoll. Everyone else has saved.
Mundhi throws a rock and takes out Harpy 3.
Elron and Honor combine to take out Harpy 1.
All three harpies are dead, and the Twins snap out of it. Zeoll can save his spell.
Up above, Asimov finishes his work and finds 8 potions of Cure Moderate Wounds (CL3) and several pieces of fine jewelry.
There are a large number of dire rats in the room Mundhi is in, called by the harpy song, but now they too snap out of it.
Surrounding her, seven dire rats bite at Mundhi. They hit ACs 6, 13, 16, 14, 15, 11. And 14. All miss.
=====
There are dead or dying harpies here. What do you do?
Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant 7'4" atm) (Kim) AC 19 Touch 13 FF17 HP 52/58 d20+9=14 ; d20+9=26 ; Wednesday June 15th, 2022 12:27:10 AM
Mundhi grows, grabs up harpies #2 and #3, and tosses them upwards after yelling that two sleeping harpies are on their way up. If at 10'5" she is tall enough to reach up (an arm could reach up about 5 and a half feet above her head, so nearly 16 feet), she does not need to toss, but can reach for someone above to grab each in turn. If a toss is needed, #2 is tossed up with a 14 to make it through the hole at a slight angle, and #3 with a 26 also at a slightly different angle. She then grabs #1, and shrinking back to 7'4", carries her up the ladder and out.
This all likely will take at least two rounds, or maybe three, DM call. The rats she lightly tries to avoid, but mainly focuses on the harpy extraction.
=============== Edit: Her throws should be 16 and 28, rather than 14 and 26.
Mitch - The Twins HP 65/65 AC 26/12/24 d20+14=27 ; d6=1 ; d6=1 ; Wednesday June 15th, 2022 7:23:24 AM
The Twins wake from their stupor and imediantly go on the attack. Since the harpies are dead they attack the first hostile thing they see, one of the rats. 27 to hit, 12 damage.
Honor Bright (Kathy) [AC 20; HP 45/50] d20+9=10 ; Wednesday June 15th, 2022 12:45:22 PM
If Mundhildur is able to get a harpy through the trapdoor this round, Honor will try to stabilize it. [Heal check 10, fail]
SteveM - Elron | AC 21 (19 if raging), HP 39/49, DR 1/-- Wednesday June 15th, 2022 6:22:17 PM
Elron helps who- or what-ever comes through the trap door up, although he does not understand why anyone wants to save the harpies. Unless it's a dire rat.
Asimov and Irony | Hugh | AC 17/13/15 HP 53/53 | AC 20/11/19 HP 35/35 Hardness 2 Wednesday June 15th, 2022 8:55:06 PM
Asimov comes down toward the rest of the party bearing the contents of the chest. "Guys I found fine jewelry and 8 potions of cure moderate wounds"
"Do you want me to heal the harpies with some medihalers? " he asks, "I think these potions could probably do us for the upcoming conflict with mother superior if they are as bullied into serving Mother Superior as the other harpy we fought."
Zeoll praises Bill on his excellent sitting and spitting.
===== ===== ===== DM Post
We're out of combat.
Big Mundhi ignores the rats, picks up the fallen harpies who may be clinging to life, and hoists them up. While she does so, three rats manage to roll well enough to bite her (rolled 4 nat 20s over three rounds). She takes 13 damage and has to make four DC12 fort saves vs disease.
The Twins rain death down over that time, eventually killing a number and chasing the others off into the lower regions.
Honor looks over the harpies. One survived the battle and the dire rats, and she stabilizes the captive unconscious harpy. Elron lends a hand, and notices that these harpies are smaller, and ... younger than the one you fought above.
Asimov comes down to report the contents of the trunk. He offers to heal the harpy that remains alive.
Zeoll praises Bill.
Mundhi is alone in the room below. Everyone else is on the roof above. Actions?
Mitch - The Twins HP 65/65 AC 26/12/24 Thursday June 16th, 2022 7:20:31 AM
The Twins sheath their weapon and grumble about mental attacks as they rejoin the group.
Honor Bright (Kathy) [AC 20; HP 45/50] Thursday June 16th, 2022 4:43:11 PM
"Let's save our healing for the fight with their Mother Superior," Honor says. "This youngster is stable and should come to no further harm in the meantime."
She calls down, "Mundhildur, do you need a hand?"
SteveM - Elron | AC 21 (19 if raging), HP 39/49, DR 1/-- Thursday June 16th, 2022 10:05:41 PM
Elron waits to be sure Mundhildur is coming up before climbing back to the next higher treehouse. At least, he assumes they'll be attacking the boss next.
Asimov and Irony | Hugh | AC 17/13/15 HP 53/53 | AC 20/11/19 HP 35/35 Hardness 2 d20+14=33 ; d20+14=33 ; Thursday June 16th, 2022 10:44:26 PM
Asimov says, "In combat I can't be everywhere at once and I only have a limited number of medihalers. We should all take some of these potions for the upcoming fight. As for the jewelry well we will have to wait till we can get somewhere civilized to convert it into gold."
Asimov uses his magic detector to survey the battlefield, the unconscious harpy and the dead harpies looking for other spoils.
Know [Arcana]: 33 to look for magical auras Spellcraft: 33 to identify
Up the Tree (DM Cayzle | Zeoll) Friday June 17th, 2022 12:01:05 AM
Mundhi and the Twins gather on the roof so that the whole party is together [the DM assumes].
You find that the three defeated harpies all had masterwork clubs, and, per Asimov, rings of feather falling. Add in 350 gp in coins, mostly gold.
Honor suggests saving the party's healing. What do you do with the unconscious harpy?
Elron thinks the big boss above is the next step.
SteveM - Elron | AC 21 (19 if raging), HP 39/49, DR 1/-- Friday June 17th, 2022 1:35:48 PM
Elron doesn't think that the others will go for tumbing the harpy off the roof after they've gone to the trouble of saving her, so he holds that thought back. They could just leave her there, but Bill might not like the company. "That leaves tying her up somehow."
Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant 7'4" atm) (Kim) AC 19 Touch 13 FF17 HP 52/58 d20+7=18 ; Friday June 17th, 2022 3:46:49 PM
Mundhi works to patch up the unconscious harpy (heal: 18).
Honor Bright (Kathy) [AC 20; HP 45/50] Friday June 17th, 2022 6:41:04 PM
"We can leave her up where we fought that other one, I guess," Honor says. "Does anyone want to be healed before we take on the Mother Superior? Elron, are you good?"
Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant 7'4" atm) (Kim) AC 19 Touch 13 FF17 HP 38/58 Saturday June 18th, 2022 5:36:28 AM
Mundhildur is down by 20 hp. "Yes, I would appreciate some healing."
Mitch - The Twins HP 65/65 AC 26/12/24 Saturday June 18th, 2022 11:58:43 AM
The Twins are ready to go, and half expect to end up useless again next fight.
Up the Tree (DM Cayzle | Zeoll) Saturday June 18th, 2022 1:51:02 PM
You secure the captive and cure yourselves.
Then, up you go! The party ascends the ladders to the uppermost level ... and finds it empty! There is no big boss, no Mother Superior. Either it was a lie or she has already absconded.
All you find up there are three huge barrels of water, three 50 ft lengths of silk rope, and lots of shuttered windows on all sides. The foliage is cleared away such that someone up here could see all around. There's a trap door up above as well that gives you access to the tippy-top of the tree. Also, there is a clever slope to the roof up there to collect rain water.
If you make an Intelligence check vs DC15 ... Highlight to display spoiler: {You recall seeing a couple harpies fly off whilst you were surveying the place from far away.}
You hear Bill make a loud camel-braying from down where you left him!
Mitch - The Twins HP 65/65 AC 26/12/24 d20=17 ; Sunday June 19th, 2022 7:12:13 PM
The Twins realize that they saw some flying off (18 int) "The enemy left before we came." "We should head down quickly." "They likely return."
SteveM - Elron | AC 21 (19 if raging), HP 39/49, DR 1/-- d20-1=1 ; Sunday June 19th, 2022 8:25:34 PM (Intelligence check = 1)
"That's Bill!" Elron heads down with the others, presumably in reverse of the order that came up in.
Asimov and Irony | Hugh | AC 17/13/15 HP 53/53 | AC 20/11/19 HP 35/35 Hardness 2 d20+5=17 ; Sunday June 19th, 2022 10:07:48 PM
Int : 17
Asimov says, "I remember we saw a bunch of harpies fly off while we surveyed this place from far away. Also those rings of feather falling. We are up in a tree fighting flying creatures. People should probably equip those in case we need them."
Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant 7'4" atm) (Kim) AC 19 Touch 13 FF17 HP 38/58 d20+1=14 ; d20+6=8 ; Monday June 20th, 2022 5:40:46 AM
"Oh, right, Asimov, I recall now that you mention it." [Int check 14 +2 from Asimov's mention =16.]
"I have a ring of feather falling already. Others take these three," Mundhildur says. "Good idea to decide quickly. A fall off of this tree would be quicker."
She surveys the view from this harpy aerie, opening the various closed segments, then closing them back up after taking in the view. She looks back in the direction they came, and in the general direction of the village they came from. How visible is it?
Mundhildur mentally maps out the area round about, looking especially for local and distant landmarks. She simply wants to learn as much as she can about the surrounding environment.
She takes two of the lengths of silk rope, ties off one end to something solid - such as the trunk of the tree. "I'm going to climb up, if I can. Someone want to check on Bill?" she asks.
As is her practice, she uses the rope to assist her in the climb, and to help catch her if she slips, using one of the harnesses she built earlier.
Due to the rope, and now at 7'4", she barely ekes out a DC10 climbing check (8+2). If that is enough for her to slip off and fall, the rope and ring of feather fall should help arrest her, seriously slowing her descent. If it is enough to hang on, she climbs back down from her attempt to get near the top. "I don't have more than one spike for this last section - haven't used it yet. Does someone else want to attempt the climb to the top? I'm afraid my weight puts me at a disadvantage here."
"You want to give it a try, Asimov? Or have Irony try it? It would be nice for one of us living types to take a gander - might be something worthwhile in getting near the top."
Once tip-top explorations are concluded, the Jotun woman comments, "Say, we did not really search the room with the three younger harpies, now, did we? Too busy carrying them out and getting bitten by rats. Anyone want to take a moment to check that more closely? I'll do it if no one else wants to."
Honor Bright (Kathy) [AC 20; HP 45/50] Monday June 20th, 2022 8:26:50 PM
Not being especially nimble, Honor will accept a Ring of Feather Falling if there's one available.
"But I detected evil up here," she reminds her companions. She detects for evil again.
Up the Tree (DM Cayzle | Zeoll) Monday June 20th, 2022 10:32:59 PM
You've cleared the upper two levels. If there was evil there before, it has now flown off. Below you are the lowermost two layers, of which you have explored just one room, maybe a third of a layer.
You go down to Bill, who is braying (or whatever it is camels do). He is looking off into trees. If you make a DC20 perception check, Highlight to display spoiler: {}You see a lone youngish harpy high-tailing it out of here, headed west.
You are on the roof where you were before. The trap door is open at your feet.
Asimov and Irony | Hugh | AC 17/13/15 HP 53/53 | AC 20/11/19 HP 35/35 Hardness 2 d20+6=13 ; Monday June 20th, 2022 11:10:49 PM
Asimov takes one of those rings of feather falling and equips it then he goes with Mundhi and Irony to climb.
Irony has a climb speed. Asimov Climb: 13 so I think that beats the DC 10
Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant 7'4" atm) (Kim) AC 19 Touch 13 FF17 HP 38/58 d20+7=17 ; Tuesday June 21st, 2022 4:51:26 AM
"Well, the harpies seem to be gone, perhaps," surmises Mundhildur. "Though we still need to look through the rest of this aerie. I'll help." She goes through the unexplored sections of the upper not-yet-fully-explored level. Opening doors, being ready for possible action at the moment of opening. "Wonder if they have any captives we might help?" she says.
Mitch - The Twins HP 65/65 AC 26/12/24 Tuesday June 21st, 2022 8:27:33 AM
The Twins will guard those searching, bow out in case an enemy appears they need to shoot.
Honor Bright (Kathy) [AC 20; HP 45/50] Tuesday June 21st, 2022 3:04:04 PM
"We're sill going to need to deal with this Mother Superior, wherever she is," Honor says. She helps her friends search the rest of the complex, but she hangs toward the back, knowing that searching and noticing things isn't really her strong suit.
SteveM - Elron | AC 21 (19 if raging), HP 39/49, DR 1/-- Tuesday June 21st, 2022 6:25:54 PM
Elron thinks that they have not really searched the lower level, from which the young harpy apparently fled and where there might be rats. He searches in that direction, not straying from where one of the guards can see him.
Seeing how there were three rings, two have been claimed, and one has been refused, Elron supposes the last is down to him or the Twins. On the one hand, he isn't sure if two people can use one ring. On the other, he's the one with feathers so if push comes to shove he's the most likely to manage to fly.
Up the Tree (DM Cayzle | Zeoll) Tuesday June 21st, 2022 9:13:25 PM
You explore the lower two levels, both in one 20 ft high structure.
On the upper level there are, per a merely cursory examination: - a room with four nests made from cloth and parts of furniture. - a room that looks like it was once an infirmary. It is all smashed up, and the broken vials of old rotted medicines, unguents, and oils make this place really really rancid. - a kitchen, poorly maintained, but clearly recently used. - the room in which Mundhi fought the harpy.
You have not climbed down to the lowermost level yet, the one from which the rats came.
Asimov and Irony | Hugh | AC 17/13/15 HP 53/53 | AC 20/11/19 HP 35/35 Hardness 2 d20+14=24 ; d20+14=34 ; d20+10=15 ; Tuesday June 21st, 2022 11:17:22 PM
Asimov uses his magic detector in the new rooms just to see if there might be anything magical lying about in the wreckage.
Perception: 15 Know Arcana for Auras: 24 Spellcraft to identify: 34
He says, "We should probably go down to that final level. Don't forget to take some of those potions as I can't be everywhere at once if we are fighting Mother Superior."
Mitch - The Twins HP 65/65 AC 26/12/24 Wednesday June 22nd, 2022 7:16:06 AM "If she's even still here." the Twins comment.
Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant 7'4" atm) (Kim) AC 19 Touch 13 FF17 HP 38/58 d20+7=9 ; d20+7=10 ; d20+7=15 ; d20+7=25 ; Wednesday June 22nd, 2022 2:58:42 PM
Mundhildur's perception as she searches the nest room (9), the infirmary (10), the kitchen (15), and the room in which she fought the harpies (25). Let us know if she found anything.
After that, she asks who wants to join in checking out the bottom layer - the rats' rumpus room?
She does take one of the potions of healing from Asimov, with a nod of thanks.
Honor Bright (Kathy) [AC 20; HP 45/50] Wednesday June 22nd, 2022 3:30:00 PM
"I wonder if the rats are pets of some kind," Honor muses, "or if they're just a nuisance the harpies didn't know how to deal with."
She follows Mundhildur down to the "rat level."
SteveM - Elron | AC 21 (19 if raging), HP 39/49, DR 1/-- Wednesday June 22nd, 2022 7:44:51 PM "I though th' one harpy had pipes t' control th' rats. Guess that'd make 'em pets, even if they was reluctantly adopted pets." Elron has been itching to look at the lower level, though he has no idea why it should be any different from the others.
Since no one else has claimed the third ring of feather falling, he does.
Up the Tree (DM Cayzle | Zeoll) Thursday June 23rd, 2022 12:15:20 AM
Down in the lower level, there are, in the first room there, about a dozen dire rats. They present no real threat to you, and any plan, including "Attack!" will work fine. Please tell me your strategy. It DOES make a difference HOW you tackle them, or else I would just gloss over the encounter.
Asimov and Irony | Hugh | AC 17/13/15 HP 53/53 | AC 20/11/19 HP 35/35 Hardness 2 Thursday June 23rd, 2022 1:55:35 AM
Asimov says to Zeoll, "I don't suppose you could use those pipes we found to control the rats yourself and thus use them against whatever we might find in the next room?"
If Zeoll responds in the negative he will say, "Since we can't use the rats to our advantage unless someone has a way to make them leave peacefully like animal empathy or a spell I suggest we just keep at range and dispatch them."
Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant 7'4" atm) (Kim) AC 19 Touch 13 FF17 HP 58/58 Thursday June 23rd, 2022 5:51:33 AM
If Zeoll does not decide to follow Azimov's suggestion regarding the pipes, Mundhildur looks down at the rats and says, "Hi, rats. Are you some of the normal food for harpies? Would you like to attack us? Or leave us alone? Or have us leave you alone? Or sing a saga of your people?"
Unless a rat actually answers her in some sort of intelligible manner, she closes the trap door and checks with the others, and asks, "So, do we just throw rocks at them? Or something else? I'll go along with anything that sounds reasonable."
Mitch - The Twins HP 65/65 AC 26/12/24 Thursday June 23rd, 2022 7:17:07 AM
The Twins wait to see the results from the other's ideas.
Honor Bright (Kathy) [AC 20; HP 45/50] Thursday June 23rd, 2022 6:28:12 PM
"Why do we have to do anything with them at all?" Honor asks. "They're not really hurting anybody, and since this house....nest....thing is pretty much deserted they can just stay here. But we should make sure they have a way to get in and out."
Asimov and Irony | Hugh | AC 17/13/15 HP 53/53 | AC 20/11/19 HP 35/35 Hardness 2 Thursday June 23rd, 2022 10:47:40 PM
Asimov waits to hear what the others decide (OOC: checking in)
SteveM - Elron | AC 21 (19 if raging), HP 39/49, DR 1/-- Thursday June 23rd, 2022 11:44:45 PM
Elron is ready to whap. After all, they're only rats.
Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant 7'4" atm) (Kim) AC 19 Touch 13 FF17 HP 58/58 Friday June 24th, 2022 1:20:15 AM
"And, if there's something valuable down there, or maybe a prisoner or two, we don't want to go in and check things out? Tell you what - I can take some of my wool blankets, wrap up a bunch of them, get them out of the room, look things over, then, put them back, if you want us to," suggests Mundhi.
She gets out a couple of good-sized wool blankets. "Double-layered, harder for them to bit through," she comments. "We might have to kill a few, if they get too pesky. Do you understand us, ratties?"
She folds up the paired blankets, and prepares to descend. "Last minute guidance?" she asks. "You want to join me on this coverup, Elron?"
SteveM - Elron | AC 21 (19 if raging), HP 39/49, DR 1/-- Friday June 24th, 2022 7:58:51 PM "I'll come with ya, Mundhildur, but I don't know if I could move right under thick blankets."
Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant 7'4" atm) (Kim) AC 19 Touch 13 FF17 HP 58/58 Saturday June 25th, 2022 5:12:35 AM
Mundhi giggles at Elron's surmise. "Silly, it's the rats'll be trying to move under the thick blankets. You can bounce up and down atop them, and thwack away!"
Up the Tree (DM Cayzle | Zeoll) d20+7=8 ; 2d4+6=11 ; d20+15=34 ; Saturday June 25th, 2022 2:04:40 PM
Asimov asks Zeoll about controlling the rats.
"I have two spells and the pipes, so I can trry that," the liontaur says. "Plus singing."
The liontaur tries to call out all the tiny rats in swarms using the pipes. [Perform Pipes check fauls with an 8! Nat one!] They ignore him!
"I need morre prractice!"
Next the liontaur tries calming the dire rats. Many are affected by the spell.
Finally, he tries to use his singing. His check of 34 is pretty effective.
The liontaur is able to lead or cajole the calmed friendly dire rats out.
That obstacle is gone. What next?
SteveM - Elron | AC 21 (19 if raging), HP 39/49, DR 1/-- d20+15=34 ; Saturday June 25th, 2022 2:15:25 PM
Elron lights up at Mundhi's explanation, then is crestfallen as Zeoll lures the rats out without a single whap. Well, there's no help for it now. He goes down and sees what he can find. (Perception = 34)
Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant 7'4" atm) (Kim) AC 19 Touch 13 FF17 HP 58/58 d20+7=15 ; Sunday June 26th, 2022 1:29:32 AM
"Well done, Zeoll. Now I do not need to find a place to wash rats' blood out of my wool blankets." She joins Elron and whoever else wishes to help in seeing what they might find in this area, besides rat droppings.
If they need to open doors within the circular dwelling, she will be ready with longspear and stone to attack or defend. ======= Perception: 15
Asimov and Irony | Hugh | AC 17/13/15 HP 53/53 | AC 20/11/19 HP 35/35 Hardness 2 d20+10=16 ; Sunday June 26th, 2022 11:25:55 PM
Asimov says, "Nicely done Zeoll. We should call you the pied singer of whatever this tree is."
Perception: 16 vs Mechanical Traps : 19
Honor Bright (Kathy) [AC 20; HP 45/50] Monday June 27th, 2022 9:33:38 PM
Honor follows the others down, curious to see what this new location holds.
Mitch - The Twins HP 65/65 AC 26/12/24 Tuesday June 28th, 2022 7:37:13 AM
The Twins are ready to finish searching this place and move on.
SteveM - Elron | AC 21 (19 if raging), HP 39/49, DR 1/-- Tuesday June 28th, 2022 8:08:10 PM "This reminds me o' livin' in th' place I had when i was studyin' pratum monstratum. Bigger'n usual. It had a second room. One night, while I was sleepin, there was a noise from th' otha' room. When I went t' see what it was, I found a would-be thief searchin' through th' stuff I had in there. So I asked what he was doin' an' seein' that he was already caught he fessed up an' said, I'm lookin' for money. Well, I didn't have none myself, so I ended up searchin' with him."
Honor Bright (Kathy) [AC 20; HP 45/50] Tuesday June 28th, 2022 10:09:06 PM
"Very sensible of you," Honor tells Elron, eyes twinkling.
Up the Tree (DM Cayzle | Zeoll) Tuesday June 28th, 2022 10:41:07 PM
With Elron leading, you find the last unexplored rooms. The big room directly below you is the rats nest; maybe it was a meeting or dining hall once upon a time? There is a kitchen and pantry -- recently used, but a big mess too. And then there is a locked door.
You figure the room behind the locked door is decent in size -- 20 by 20ish. All the rooms in this place have the curved outer wall, so it is hard to say exactly.
Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant 7'4" atm) (Kim) AC 19 Touch 13 FF17 HP 58/58 Tuesday June 28th, 2022 11:13:27 PM
"Asimov - do we want to open this door delicately, or shall I work on bashing it in?" Mundhildur steps back to allow the tinkerer, or another, to try to open the door.
Asimov and Irony | Hugh | AC 17/13/15 HP 53/53 | AC 20/11/19 HP 35/35 Hardness 2 d20+13=18 ; d20+16=20 ; Wednesday June 29th, 2022 12:24:33 AM
Asimov tries to open the lock.
Perception: 18 to check for mechanical traps Disable Device: 20
Mitch - The Twins HP 65/65 AC 26/12/24 Wednesday June 29th, 2022 6:16:34 AM
The Twins are ready to help bash it open if that's needed.
Honor Bright (Kathy) [AC 20; HP 45/50] d20+3=6 ; Wednesday June 29th, 2022 2:32:25 PM
With nothing else to occupy her, Honor looks around for a key. [Perception 6]
SteveM - Elron | AC 21 (19 if raging), HP 39/49, DR 1/-- d20+15=19 ; Wednesday June 29th, 2022 4:51:08 PM
Elron waits while Asimov unlocks the door. He glances about while he does. (Perception = 19)
Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant 7'4" atm) (Kim) AC 19 Touch 13 FF17 HP 58/58 Wednesday June 29th, 2022 11:20:17 PM
If Asimov has succeeded, Mundhi is willing to look through the opening, and enter, ready for combat, or rescue, or ... ?
Up the Tree (DM Cayzle | Zeoll) Thursday June 30th, 2022 12:22:36 AM
The lock does not open to Asimov's immediate ministrations. It looks like a slightly tougher lock than that.
[A simple lock is DC20.]
"Try again, my frriend," says Zeoll -- He offers a +2 from a bardic performance and a +1 from a Guidance cantrip, if it is desired.
Asimov and Irony | Hugh | AC 17/13/15 HP 53/53 | AC 20/11/19 HP 35/35 Hardness 2 d20+19=38 ; Thursday June 30th, 2022 2:49:35 AM
Disable Device: 38
Asimov says, "Wow I guess I just needed a little help from my friends."
Mitch - The Twins HP 65/65 AC 26/12/24 Thursday June 30th, 2022 7:01:18 AM
The Twins wonder what is inside
The Harpy Tree: Fight III
Up the Tree (DM Cayzle | Zeoll) Thursday June 30th, 2022 8:37:12 AM
The door opens. Inside are two blinking harpies. They were asleep, but your lack of stealth and bardic singing woke them up. Let's say there is no surprise on either side.
That means it is time to make two saves vs Harpy Song! DC15 Will save, +2 if you have ear plugs, which is everybody I assume -- except Bill, who is still above and not in this encounter.
Let's see if we can do this one without a map, my friends.
Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant 7'4" atm) (Kim) AC 19 Touch 13 FF17 HP 58/58 d20+6=9 ; Thursday June 30th, 2022 10:57:41 AM
About to throw a rock, instead Mundhildur is captivated by the duet, so stands there, stupidly, listening.
Honor Bright (Kathy) [AC 20; HP 45/50] d20+9=17 ; d20+9=28 ; d20+12=14 ; Thursday June 30th, 2022 2:59:44 PM
Honor, with her ridiculous paladin save bonuses, has never stopped up her ears. Let's see if she regrets it now.
Nope, all good. [Will save 17 and 28]
She draws Virtue. "Your friends are defeated or fled," she says. "You are the only two left. We do not need to slay you; I will accept your surrender if you offer it."
[Ugh. Diplomacy 14, minus whatever penally for it being rushed. Glad that wasn't a Will save, I guess.]
Asimov and Irony | Hugh | AC 17/13/15 HP 53/53 | AC 20/11/19 HP 35/35 Hardness 2 d20+3=7 ; d20+3=15 ; d20+5=16 ; d8+4=6 ; Thursday June 30th, 2022 11:20:34 PM
(9 vs 15 = fail; 17 vs 15 = pass so still captivated)
Asimov is captivated so he stands there and does nothing.
Irony knowing the drill from the previous encounter moves forward to attack one of the harpies with a slam attack being immune to their singing since it is a construct.
16 vs AC; 6 damage if that hits.
SteveM - Elron | AC 21 (19 if raging), HP 39/49, DR 1/-- d20+10=22 ; d20+10=11 ; Friday July 1st, 2022 1:23:57 AM
Elron doesn't understand why one is screeching when the other has such a lovely voice. He could listen all day.
Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant 7'4" atm) (Kim) AC 19 Touch 13 FF17 HP 58/58 d20+6=19 ; Friday July 1st, 2022 6:53:42 AM
Ah, I was supposed to roll twice. Per earlier post, failed. Per second post, saved. Her experience is similar to that of Elron.
Up the Tree (DM Cayzle | Zeoll) d20=18 ; d20=8 ; Friday July 1st, 2022 6:54:13 AM
Zeoll has a +4 by virtue of bard levels and +2 from the earplugs. His base Will save is +8. So he fails only on a 1. No problem.
"What should I do?" he asks his friends. [OOC: Them what's not acting, please give Zeoll an idea on what to do. Link in header!]
DM Post ===== ===== =====
Zeoll, Irony, and Honor are unaffected. Elron and Asimov are affected by one but not the other ... each by a different one. Mundhi, please make two saves so we can see if it is the first or both that have affected you.
And we'll see about the Twins. And a suggestion for Zeoll -- if I get conflicting suggestions, I'll roll.
Mitch - The Twins HP 65/65 AC 26/12/24 d20=18 ; d20=8 ; Friday July 1st, 2022 7:24:30 AM
The twins pass one fail the other (22 and 12)
SteveM - Elron | AC 21 (19 if raging), HP 39/49, DR 1/-- Friday July 1st, 2022 1:21:29 PM
Elron is mesmerised.
Zeoll's most effective action would be to stop the singing somehow. A laughing harpy could not sing, nor a sleeping one.
Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant 7'4" atm) (Kim) AC 19 Touch 13 FF17 HP 58/58 Friday July 1st, 2022 2:28:29 PM
[I posted 31 seconds before your DM post, Cayzle, and had the 2nd roll. Mundhi is one for two on saves rolled.]
Honor Bright (Kathy) [AC 20; HP 45/50] d20+12=26 ; d20+7=11 ; d8=5 ; Friday July 1st, 2022 9:11:06 PM
Assuming the harpies did not surrender, Honor attacks the nearest one. [Hit AC 26 for 9 damage; hit AC 11, which I'm guessing is a miss.]
Up the Tree (DM Cayzle | Zeoll) d20+5=6 ; Saturday July 2nd, 2022 9:09:31 AM
Harpy A: Bedazzles Mundhi, Asimov Harpy B: Bedazzles Elron, the Twins Unaffected: Honor, Irony, Zeoll
Zeoll imagines what Elron would say and casts Hideous Laughter on Harpy B.
Will Save DC18
DM Post coming this evening, but here is its save ... Nat 1! It stops singing and starts laughing! Elron and the Twins are free!
SteveM - Elron | AC 21 (19 if raging), HP 39/49, DR 1/-- d20+13=32 ; d4=3 ; d6=2 ; Saturday July 2nd, 2022 12:44:53 PM
Elron whaps. If possible, he will whap harpy A, who isn't momentarily incapacitated.
Assuming he needs to move and has only one attack, he. . . (hmm, looks like he raged 6 rounds in an earlier harpy fight). . . berserkishly swings his whappin' stick.
Hits AC 32 for 7 damage (3 from weapon, 2 from electricity, 2 from rage strength).
Rage: 7/12
Up the Tree (DM Cayzle | Zeoll) d20+10=19 ; d6=2 ; d20+2=5 ; Saturday July 2nd, 2022 10:59:18 PM
Zeoll makes Harpy B laugh.
Elron and Honor attack Harpy A.
===
Harpy A attcks Zeoll. It swings a short sword to hit AC19 for 5 damage. It claws AC5, a miss.
Harpy B is laughing.
Harpy A - 16 damage. Harpy B - No damage. Both Harpies are AC17.
Mitch - The Twins HP 65/65 AC 26/12/24 d20+14=16 ; d6=2 ; d6=4 ; Sunday July 3rd, 2022 10:57:48 AM
The Twins are a bit surprised they actually get to participate in a combat. So surprised they possibly miss (16 to hit, but if the way is clear they can charge for +2. If they hit then 16 damage)
Asimov and Irony | Hugh | AC 17/13/15 HP 53/53 | AC 20/11/19 HP 35/35 Hardness 2 d20+5=18 ; d8+4=9 ; Sunday July 3rd, 2022 11:44:59 PM
Asimov remains transfixed.
Irony slams and hits (18 vs AC; 9 damage)
Honor Bright (Kathy) [AC 20; HP 45/50] d20+12=13 ; d20+7=12 ; Monday July 4th, 2022 4:24:46 PM
Honor presses the attack, though not effectively. [nat 1; AC 12]
SteveM - Elron | AC 21 (19 if raging), HP 39/49, DR 1/-- d20+11=18 ; d20+11=24 ; d4=1 ; d6=2 ; d4=3 ; d6=5 ; Monday July 4th, 2022 6:15:45 PM
Elron tries a flurry of blows, hitting AC 18 and 24 for 5 and 10 damage respectively (5 = 1 + 2 + 2; 10 = 3 + 5 + 2).
Rage: 8/12
Up the Tree (DM Cayzle | Zeoll) d20+5=25 ; d20+5=9 ; Tuesday July 5th, 2022 12:04:16 AM
Zeoll casts at Harpy A. She has to make a DC18 Will save to not laugh.
===== ===== ===== DM Post.
Elron and Irony swing and hit for 24 damage to Harpy A.
Honor and the Twins miss -- no space to charge.
Harpy B tries for her second save ... a nat 20! She starts singing again. Elron and the Twins have to save again -- everybody else has saved once and is immune.
Harpy A tries to save ... a 9 fails! Mundhi and Asimov are free! Harpy A is laughing.
Harpy A - 40 damage - very wounded Harpy B - No damage. Both Harpies are AC17.
Asimov and Irony | Hugh | AC 17/13/15 HP 53/53 | AC 20/11/19 HP 35/35 Hardness 2 3d4+3=12 ; d20+5=18 ; d8+4=8 ; Tuesday July 5th, 2022 12:17:17 AM
Asimov fires off a wrist rocket(like magic missile) at Harpy A for 12 damage.
Irony continues to press the attack hitting with another slam (18 vs AC; 8 damage)
Device List thingamabobs: corrosive pistol, freeze ray, magic detector, light emitter weird science creation (2 0th level effects): corrosive pistol + freeze ray = range touch; 1d3 acid + 1d3 cold on succesful hit - used 1st level devices: wrist rockets (magic missile) - used wrist rockets (magic missiile) medi-haler light (cure light wounds), medihaler-light (cure light wounds) , fire handlng gloves (produce flame), wrist rockets (magic missile) 2nd level devices: rapid repair nanobot capsule (make whole), medihaler medium (cure moderate wounds), medihaler medium (cure moderate wounds), flamethrower (scorching ray)
SteveM - Elron | AC 21 (19 if raging), HP 39/49, DR 1/-- d20+12=17 ; d20+11=22 ; d20+11=14 ; d4=1 ; d6=4 ; Tuesday July 5th, 2022 12:28:37 AM
Because Elron is now raging, he is more resistant to the creature's lure... Saves with a 17.
He continues to attack. . . Hitting AC 22 for 7 points damage (1 + 4 + 2) and AC 14 for (miss)
Mitch - The Twins HP 65/65 AC 26/12/24 d20=15 ; d20+14=16 ; Tuesday July 5th, 2022 8:30:01 AM
The Twins make the second save and are good for the entire fight now. "Surrender." "Fighting to the death gains you nothing." they tell the harpies. If the harpies do as asked then the Twins wont' attack, but they only give the harpies half a moment to surrender before continuing the attack. (16 to hit, deja vu)
Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant 7'4" atm) (Kim) AC 19 Touch 13 FF17 HP 58/58 d20+8=12 ; d20+8=12 ; Tuesday July 5th, 2022 10:52:21 AM
The auburn-braided Jotun maiden snaps out of her music-caused enthrallment, and attempts to slam the recently-laughing but now singing harpy (B), yet Mundhildur's timing is off, and she fails to connect on her two attempts to hit her.
Honor Bright (Kathy) [AC 20; HP 45/50] d20+12=16 ; d20+7=11 ; Tuesday July 5th, 2022 9:25:14 PM
Honor has already given the harpies one chance to surrender, and she's not convinced they'll take the Twins up on their offer. She attacks again, and again misses twice.
Up the Tree (DM Cayzle | Zeoll) Wednesday July 6th, 2022 9:10:36 AM
The one harpy dies, and the other surrenders.
After interrogation, you find that the very first one you defeated was the leader. These two are her chief minions.
You find each has a +3 ring and a +3 short sword.
The last one asks for mercy.
Mitch - The Twins HP 65/65 AC 26/12/24 Wednesday July 6th, 2022 9:19:47 AM
The Twins let the others ask their inevitable questions. If someone suggests killing the harpy they would object, as killing foes who surrender is bad business that will just make fights longer and harder in the long run. No one surrenders once you have that reputation.
SteveM - Elron | AC 21 (19 if raging), HP 39/49, DR 1/-- Wednesday July 6th, 2022 9:43:48 PM "You gots to promise to stop killin' folks an' stealin' their livestock. An' no usin' your singin' to hurt no one, neither."
Honor Bright (Kathy) [AC 20; HP 45/50] Wednesday July 6th, 2022 9:55:08 PM
"Tell us about your operation," Honor says. "Is there anyone else we need to be concerned about? After that, yes, if you promise not to harm people from here on, we will let you go."
Asimov and Irony | Hugh | AC 17/13/15 HP 53/53 | AC 20/11/19 HP 35/35 Hardness 2 Wednesday July 6th, 2022 11:39:38 PM
Asimov says, "Wait, we already killed mother superior? The last female matriarchal monster we fought was a lot more formidable than that. Though maybe a drow spellcaster is scarier than a harpy."
Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant 7'4" atm) (Kim) AC 19 Touch 13 FF17 HP 58/58 Friday July 8th, 2022 7:30:40 AM
Mundhildur says, "You answer my friends' questions, turn over your magic and treasure to us, and promise not to attack the people anymore - and not steal their animals, either, and we let you go. And my question: Why did you all keep attacking the people over in [the area we just came from]?"
SteveM - Elron | AC 21 (19 if raging), HP 39/49, DR 1/-- Friday July 8th, 2022 6:17:06 PM "So, have we found 'em all?" Elron doesn't want to leave anyone behind who hasn't promised to to attack the people around here again.
Up the Tree (DM Cayzle | Zeoll) Saturday July 9th, 2022 12:06:18 AM
The last harpy agrees to your terms. SHe gives a count of all the harpies. There is one that flew away, one you defeated and let go, two that went out to the farm at daybreak, and this one. All the others are dead. You have killed 5, reformed two, and three are out there.
She explains that they took over the former theives guild building and enjoyed it. But now they will have to go.
But for sure, the fear of you will be strong enough to prompt them to flee to easier pickings. And this one has promised to reform.
You also gain some coin that the two stashed away. The silver and copper is trivial, but there is 450 gp and 275 platinum.
You have cleared this place. What will you do with it now?
SteveM - Elron | AC 21 (19 if raging), HP 39/49, DR 1/-- Saturday July 9th, 2022 12:27:07 PM "What do we do w' th' place? Leavin' it for th' harpies seems iffy when there are three still out there we don't know much about. It's prob'ly a bit far from town for th' guard to use it for anythin'. If'n we don't do nothing else about it, though, we ought'a tell 'em." Zeoll's earlier protestations aside, it isn't clear if Elron thinks burning the place is still an idea. Maybe he thinks this would be a cool place to stay if it were closer to their patron. Although probably not for Bill.
Mitch - The Twins HP 65/65 AC 26/12/24 Sunday July 10th, 2022 10:57:00 PM "Well it is in a tree." "Maybe we can find some way to knock it down?" the Twins suggest.
Asimov and Irony | Hugh | AC 17/13/15 HP 53/53 | AC 20/11/19 HP 35/35 Hardness 2 Sunday July 10th, 2022 11:15:15 PM
"The tree is a living thing. Seems a shame to knock it down just because some monsters have used it as a base. If we aren't going to keep this place for our selves as a base of operations I vote we either turn it over to the authorities or see if we can find a way to destablize these platforms and knock down just the structure leaving the tree. If we aren't going to use it perhaps the local guard could garrison some men here? If not I say we keep the tree and get rid of the structures built around the tree." Asimov says
Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant 7'4" atm) (Kim) AC 19 Touch 13 FF17 HP 58/58 Monday July 11th, 2022 4:03:48 AM
"How about we find whoever is clear-headed and wise in the town, and get their counsel," suggests the Jotun maiden.
"Perhaps these structures can be put to good use by someone other than harpies. It's given me some ideas that could be useful down the road. And, this is a fine, tall, and stout tree. I don't want to destroy a tree that a camel can climb."
After giving it a bit more thought, she says, "There are three evil harpies still out there. At least, I assume they are evil. Should we not consider what to do about them?"
Honor Bright (Kathy) [AC 20; HP 45/50] Monday July 11th, 2022 9:01:39 PM
"Yes, we should report back," Honor says. "Let's tell Guardsman Tarla what happened here, and what the situation is. They should be able to take it from there."
She frowns. "Can anyone make a map?" she asks. "That was a big part of the problem; nobody knew where the harpies were coming from. If we can provide them a map to this tree, they can decide what to do about it."
Up the Tree (DM Cayzle | Zeoll) d20+7=8 ; Monday July 11th, 2022 11:55:26 PM
"With my Knowledge of Geography," offers Zeoll, "I can try to draw a map."
With help from a Guidance, the liontaur does his best. But a natural 1, that is, an 8, yields a poor effort.
"I didn;t even know how to read and write when I started adventuring," he says. "And I guess is shows. Sigh."
===== ===== ===== DM POST
The party worries about the harpies still at large, but it seems unlikely to you that they will be a nuisance given how soundly their compatriots were thrashed.
In the end, the disposition of the Treehouse Building is best left to the town, you decide.
You report in to Guardsman Tarla, and she asks you to show her everything. It takes about a day or two, but in the end, all the details are laid bare. She thanks you very much and discusses your bravery and ingenuity in her final report. She asks you to stay at least until the end of the week.
You have some down time, then. The loot for the adventure looks something like this:
three masterwork clubs three feather fall rings 350 gp 450 gp and 275 platinum ring of protection +1 pipes of the sewers potion of cure light wounds three +3 rings of protection three +3 short swords eight potions of Cure Moderate Wounds (CL3) several pieces of fine nonmagical jewelry - platinum and diamond amulet worth 2,500 gp - two mithril bracelets set with black pearls worth 1,000 each
Please speak up if I have missed anything.
Everybody levels to seventh, please. We'll start the next module on Monday.
Asimov and Irony | Hugh | AC 17/13/15 HP 53/53 | AC 20/11/19 HP 35/35 Hardness 2 d20+12=27 ; Tuesday July 12th, 2022 12:37:29 AM
Asimov improves Zeoll's map.
Knowledge - Geography: 27
(OOC: yes I'll start posting the next module on Monday; please level. Anyone want to figure out what the share of the loot is if we sell what we don't want?)
Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant 7'4" atm) (Kim) AC 19 Touch 13 FF17 HP 58/58 d20+3=5 ; d20+2=3 ; d20+2=14 ; Tuesday July 12th, 2022 2:22:09 AM
Mundhildur had been occasionally climbing, looking at landmarks along the way, and working out in her head the pathways they had taken. On the way back, she marks trees every so often to give others who want to work their way back along this route a path to follow. She kicks in what she can to help refine Zeoll's map. With help from Zeoll, and some of the efforts she has been taking, at 7th level, she'll have one rank in knowledge, geography. =========== Aids in mapping: Survival: 5. Knowledge, local: 3 (nat 1). Hmmm. Knowledge, geography: 14. Maybe the latter helps a bit. ===========
"All right. Is it time we write a song, or a poem, or riddle out a way to tell our story to others, friends? Zeoll, you have some skills at that sort of thing. Perhaps others of us, too, may help."
Mitch - The Twins HP 65/65 AC 26/12/24 Tuesday July 12th, 2022 5:33:08 AM
The Twins take one of the rings of protection +3. As frontline fighters they always appreciate a nice AC boots. This also puts them over WBL by my count so they pass on all other loot.
Mitch - The Twins HP 65/65 AC 29/15/27 Tuesday July 12th, 2022 5:33:35 AM
header update
Honor Bright (Kathy) [AC 20; HP 45/50] Tuesday July 12th, 2022 2:29:24 PM
"Let's each take a potion of Cure Moderate Wounds," Honor suggests. "Asimov, can you give Irony a sort of standing order? Like, when anybody goes down, feed them a potion? If so, it might be best to give the rest of the potions to him."
SteveM - Elron | AC 21 (19 if raging), HP 39/49, DR 1/-- Tuesday July 12th, 2022 7:22:13 PM
Elron's happy to take his share, not sure yet what he will keep or sell. Those rings sure are pretty, though.
He has no problem with hanging around for a few days.
Up the Tree (DM Cayzle | Zeoll) Wednesday July 13th, 2022 12:44:34 AM
Zeoll weighs in with an opinion on loot division. "Elrron, Honorr, and Mundhi should get the otherr rrings of prrotection. But since therre are two of them and thrree of you, roll a d12 and the two highest rrollers get one. Whoever rrolls lowest gets the +1 rring of prrotection. How's that?"
"The +3 rings are worth 18 grrand each. We keep the potions, a CMW for each of us, and Irony can carry the two extra CMW and oen CLW potions for emergencies. If we sell the swords, the total remaining loot is worth about 36,000 gp."
The liontaur makes six loot piles:
(1) +3 ring, po: CMW
(2) +3 ring, po: CMW
(3) +3 ring, po: CMW
(4) +1 ring, feather fall ring, po: CMW, 11,000 gp
(5) feather fall ring, po: CMW, 13,000 gp
(6) feather fall ring, pipes of the sewers, po: CMW, 12,000 gp
[[two CMW potions and a CLW potion to be carried by Irony? Or Bill if Irony can't?]]
"That last pile is forr me," says the liontaur.
===== ===== ===== DM POST
Zeoll divides up the treasure, so that everybody gets in the 15,000 to 18,000 gp range. Anyone object to the division? Castle Surrender is no Catacombs, but the liontaur has no problem getting about market rates for the loot. [OOC: Any math or rounding errors can be attributed to losal merchant variation!]
The next day, Tasha delivers a note to you, inviting you to the Castle itself.
"This is a great honor!" she exclaims. "Maybe the King himself will meet with you!"
Up the Tree (DM Cayzle | Zeoll) d8=7 ; d8=7 ; Wednesday July 13th, 2022 1:01:10 AM
Rolling Hit Points for Zeoll and Bill:
Both get 7!
Asimov and Irony | Hugh | AC 17/13/15 HP 53/53 | AC 20/11/19 HP 35/35 Hardness 2 Wednesday July 13th, 2022 2:13:03 AM
Asimov says, "I'll take bundle number 5. I already have a ring of sustenance but a feather fall ring could be useful considering we climb a lot"
Asimov says, "Seems like we are moving up in the world. We used to just work for a lord now we might have the opportunity to work for a king."
Asimov says, "Aye I could give Irony a standing order to use a potion on whoever goes down in combat and I will do that."
(OOC: I'll level and look at spending the gold on upgrades later)
Mitch - The Twins HP 65/65 AC 29/15/27 Wednesday July 13th, 2022 7:20:20 AM
The Twins have no objections to the loot distribution. (Though I'll probably forget about the potion when I need it later XD)
Honor Bright (Kathy) [AC 20; HP 45/50] Wednesday July 13th, 2022 2:37:05 PM
"It's all right, I'll take the weaker ring," Honor says. "I think I have more armor than most of you."
Unless there are objections, she claims bundle 4.
Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant 7'4" atm) (Kim) AC 19 Touch 13 FF17 HP 58/58 Thursday July 14th, 2022 3:31:24 AM
"May I have bundle #3?" asks Mundhi.
As they wait in town for a few days, she takes the time to go out among the people, getting to know them, learning what she can about local history, stories, personalities, commerce, and, especially, songs and music. ====== Edit: rolled a 7 for hp for next level in the Catacombs...
Up the Tree (DM Cayzle | Zeoll) Thursday July 14th, 2022 8:30:44 AM
OOC: Since we're just a tap, I suggest we roll here for HP and just vet ourselves as we buy magic items. No need to visit the Catacombs.
Honor Bright (Kathy) [AC 20; HP 45/50] d10+2=6 ; Thursday July 14th, 2022 1:46:57 PM
[Hit points for Honor]
SteveM - Elron | AC 21 (19 if raging), HP 39/49, DR 1/-- d12=7 ; Thursday July 14th, 2022 7:43:51 PM
Ok. . . 7 HP for a barbarian level.
Bundles claimed = 6, 5, 1, 4, & 3? Elron can be quite happy with #2.
SteveM - Elron | AC 24 (22 if raging), HP 58/58, DR 2/-- Thursday July 14th, 2022 7:46:02 PM
Updating header.
Asimov and Irony | Hugh | AC 17/13/15 HP 53/53 | AC 20/11/19 HP 35/35 Hardness 2 Friday July 15th, 2022 12:35:45 AM
(OOC: will level this weekend; checking in)
Death and Taxes (DM Cayzle | Zeoll) Friday July 15th, 2022 12:40:52 AM
Zeoll is happy to advance, and tells the group about his new spells, Charm Monster and Confusion.
"The key to Confusion is that if a Confused crreaturre is attacked, it automatically attacks its attacker," the liontaur says. "And everrybody should fight the same Confused foe, and let the otherrs sit confused while we deal with that one. So do not attack Confused things until afterr the non-Confused arre defeated, and then one at a time. I'll point out any Confused foes in battle."
"And the key to Charrming foes, of courrse, is to not attack them. Just let me handle any crreaturre that is Charrmed. You'll know a crreaturre is charrmed because I will call them 'one of my best frriends,' OK?"
[OOC: Sheet is up to date]
===== ===== ===== DM Post
You go to the Castle, but you may be surprised. It is not the King you meet, but the Tax Collector.
"Thank you for responding to my invitation," says Chancellor of the Exchequer Lord Malinton. "You would be surprised at how many people try to evade a meeting like this."
"Well, after an evaluation of your goods and earnings, I'll accept a tax payment of 5,000 gold coins or equivalent from each of you. Magic items are evaluated on a value basis, not a sale-price basis, if you prefer to pay in kind."
He looks at you expectantly, smiling.
Mitch - The Twins HP 65/65 AC 29/15/27 Friday July 15th, 2022 8:09:04 AM
The Twins are experienced travelers and have been to many lands and dealt with many tax officers. As such they request a breakdown of the tax laws in question. Basicly just what all they are being taxed for, so they can avoid excess taxes in the future. Once their questions are answered they pay the tax with no complaints.
SteveM - Elron | AC 24 (22 if raging), HP 58/58, DR 2/-- Friday July 15th, 2022 6:44:31 PM
Elron is an experienced traveler who has been to many lands and adapted poorly to most all of them. Plus, he hasn't had experience with revenuers and doesn't like what he has heard. ("A revenuer is someone in th' government who collects revenue, right?," he mumbles.) He leaves this to the more experienced party members, confident that he has a decent amount of currency and the guy's only looking for five of whatever.
(OOC: He has like 20 pounds of coins (1000 gp).)
Honor Bright (Kathy) [AC 20; HP 45/50] Friday July 15th, 2022 7:05:58 PM
Honor listens carefully to Zeoll's explanation. "All right," she says. "I'll try to remember."
"And I have something for you," she adds. She gives Zeoll and Asimov each a platinum ring. "This is for a spell I can cast now," she explains. "It will let me absorb part of any damage you take."
She smiles at Elron and Mundhildur. "It isn't that I don't like you," she explains. "But I only have so many fingers, and the two of you are pretty good at defending yourselves."
Honor is, of course, willing to pay her taxes, so she hands over some coin and some leftover harpy jewelry.
[OOC: We're a bit over WBL, so I assume that's what the taxes are about.]
Death and Taxes (DM Cayzle | Zeoll) Friday July 15th, 2022 11:10:22 PM
The nobleman explains the ins and outs of the tax law. It all seems to be in order. He is not corrupt nor lining his own pocket.
[OOC: Yes, I put in a bit too much gold so that this would not be a true pinch! LOL!]
Zeoll | Cayzle | AC20 55 hp Friday July 15th, 2022 11:53:26 PM
Zeoll is happy to pay his taxes. "Is anybody shorrt of funds? I can help."
The taur does find someone to upgrade his leather armor. Then he is ready for the next adventure.
=====
OOC: Everybody gets a hero point as they level as well.
Asimov and Irony | Hugh | AC 17/13/15 HP 53/53 | AC 20/11/19 HP 35/35 Hardness 2 d6=2 ; d10=2 ; Saturday July 16th, 2022 11:25:38 PM
(OOC: rolling hp and checking in)
Asimov: 2 - d'oh Irony: 2 - d'oh
The dice hate me :(
Also Asimov will pay the tax bill using the ring of feather falling and his potion of CMW for 2.5k and will pay the other 2.5k in coin leaving 9.1k in coin left for Asimov to upgrade things with or buy new items
SteveM - Elron | AC 23 (21 if raging), HP 64/64, DR 2/-- Sunday July 17th, 2022 11:28:43 AM
Elron isn't the sharpest mouse in the wet sack at the best of times, and when it comes to taxes not only does he not understand, he doesn't want to understand. By the time his friends have convinced him that Chancellor of the Exchequer Lord Malinton has valid concerns, and the chancellor has explained and re-explained what is needed with many asides and going down lots of logical rabbit holes (that are rarely all that deep), a position is reached that the chancellor and Elron agree upon. No one but Elron thinks that the ring Elron is left with is the one he started out with, but questioning that could raise the whole issue again and Chancellor of the Exchequer Lord Malinton assures all it is imminently fair.
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