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The Healer

The Trip Home

The Trip Begins (DM Cayzle)
Tuesday March 19th, 2024 9:06:49 AM
The party sets off to head for home, escorting the healer, Lady Femmu. She is willing to come and help treat the Marquis’ daughter, Danni. You are travelling from Lowestoft, a lawful evil kingdom west of Castle Surrender, to the home of Marquis de Lockridge, the party’s mentor and sponsor.

Here is a map of the entire Windbourne Hills.

Here is a close up showing the lands you must traverse.

Travel is safe in Lowestoft itself, but once you enter the Contested Lands, the danger rises. What’s your marching order and watches? Please and list select spells, those who prepare them.

Zeoll d20+8=26 ;
Tuesday March 19th, 2024 9:15:38 AM

Well, my frriends," says the elder taur with the middle-aged body, "from what I know of the Contested Lands ...

Knowledge Geography = 26 woot

... this is a rrealm of verry tiny holdings, forrts, and strrongholds, all at warr with each otherr, none everr dominating all, vanishing as fast as they rrise. We could encounterr a pack of orrcs rriding bearrs, or a dwarrf forrtress, or a simple farrmstead, albeit one with walls."

"Be rready forr anything!"

Mitch - The Twins HP 141/141 AC 35/18/30 CMD 37
Tuesday March 19th, 2024 8:38:12 PM
The Twins will take the rearguard, able to support the team no matter what direction an enemy comes from.

Elron -- SteveM -- HP: 113/113 | AC: 26 | DR: 3/-- + 5/magic | SR: 17 | Move: 60'
Tuesday March 19th, 2024 10:05:51 PM
Elron is comfortable taking point. He can picture himself being warlord for a day in these lands. And who is to say, after all, that they aren't traveling through their own domain in any case?

Asimov - HP 96/96 AC 19/14/17 CMD 24 & Irony HP 53/53 AC 31/13/28 Hardness 6 CMD 23 -- Hugh
Wednesday March 20th, 2024 12:35:55 PM
(OOC: Checking in...on cell so limited)

Asimov and Irony enjoy the chance to be on the road again

Asimov - HP 96/96 AC 19/14/17 CMD 24 & Irony HP 53/53 AC 31/13/28 Hardness 6 CMD 23 -- Hugh d20+6=19 ; d20+16=23 ;
Wednesday March 20th, 2024 11:04:37 PM

Asimov remains in the middle of the group with Irony flying ahead.

Perception: 19 - Irony
Perception: 23 - Asimov

Devices Prepared
0th: light projector, magic detector, poison detector, corrosive pistol, freeze ray
1st: wrist rockets, door detector, medihaler light x 2, parachute x2, grease ray
2nd: medihaler medium x2, flamethrower x 2, fire eater capsule, trap detector
3rd, jetpack, accelerator device, blastbomb, electomagetic charge emitter, medihaler serious x2
4th: greater cloaking device, medihaler critical, electromagnetic spheres. Ice wall capsule,

Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant Lvl 11 (7'4") (Kim) AC 22 Touch 16 FF20 HP 99/99
Thursday March 21st, 2024 1:20:32 AM

Before leaving, she sought new clothing, as she did not want anymore to wear what clad her when her body was stolen. New clothes, some new gear, and she is ready to go. As they set out on the road, Mundhildur begins feeling more like herself. She is fine being at or near the lead of the party with Elron, and takes time to experience her further growth as a giant, now standing sixteen feet six inches tall. She collects new rocks along the way, occasionally practicing throwing them against selected targets such as a fallen tree or a boulder. She hums tunes she knows, and composes some new ones as they move along.

An Attack in the Contested Lands (DM Cayzle)
Thursday March 21st, 2024 11:14:49 AM

Setting off into the Contested Lands, you travel through most of the day without incident. The land is hilly and rugged in the Windbourne Hills, and though the distance is not great, the journey is not swift. There is a road, and sometimes you see small farmsteads, usually with stout walls and no windows. Some are so large that surely a big clan lives in them. Farmers tend to stare aggressively, or actively retreat into their homes when they see you.

In between these steadings, the road wanders through patches of wilderness. It is in one of these that you spot a large animal -- a tiger? Mauling a humanoid on the ground. The moment it sees you, it runs off. You are about 200 feet from the person lying on the ground. They may not be dead!

Lady Femmu gasps and calls for the party to help the fallen person. “Please, let’s see what we can do!”

Elron -- SteveM -- HP: 113/113 | AC: 26 | DR: 3/-- + 5/magic | SR: 17 | Move: 60' d20+22=23 ;
Thursday March 21st, 2024 10:59:49 PM
(Perception = 23)

Elron looks for signs of an ambush as he moves towards the injured person. It will take a couple of rounds.

Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant Lvl 11 (7'4"/16'6") (Kim) AC 22 Touch 16 FF20 HP 131/131
Friday March 22nd, 2024 3:12:46 AM
Mundhi runs toward the fallen person. Her base speed is 40 ft., and she runs, covering 160' in a round, and slows down to reach the person at the end of the second round. She looks over the humanoid, and pulls out a goodberry given her earlier by Zeoll. "Medicine," she tells him or her, and pops it in the mouth - even if the tiger victim is unconscious. It will heal 1 hp damage. If at negative hit points, it will stabilize the individual.

Ironic Asimov - HP 96/96 AC 23/14/21 CMD 24 & Irony(worn) HP 53/53 Hardness 6 -- Hugh
Friday March 22nd, 2024 5:01:41 AM
Asimov activates power armor mach 1 and flies 40 feet towards the injured person

Zeoll (AC26, 107hp)
Friday March 22nd, 2024 5:56:44 AM

Zeoll casts longstrider and moves 50 ft closer.

Mitch - The Twins HP 141/141 AC 35/18/30 CMD 37
Friday March 22nd, 2024 6:40:41 AM
The Twins move up to stand over the injured person why the healers do their thing, weapons ready to defend against any further attack.

Surprise! (DM Cayzle) d20=3 ;
Friday March 22nd, 2024 10:12:49 PM
Mundhi and Lady Femmu run -- the healer arrives just after the giant-kin. The other heroes follow.

You see clearly the signs of a battle: shrubs torn up, blood on the ground, and most of all, an unconscious dwarf. Or barely conscious; you hear faint moaning. He is dressed as a martial artist, in black, white, grey, and rose, and is very wounded.

Mundhi gives a goodberry. Femmu takes out a healer kit and starts to work on the dwarf. He says “thank you,” and holds out his hand. She takes his hand to comfort him.

The injured dwarf activates a special ability -- a spell-like ability that has no components: there is no way to detect it ahead of time.

Femmu rolls a raw three to resist. The dwarf and the healer teleport away!

Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant Lvl 11 (7'4"/16'6") (Kim) AC 22 Touch 16 FF20 HP 131/131
Saturday March 23rd, 2024 3:02:06 AM

"Hey... HEY!!" Mundhildur bellows. "That almost-dead dwarf stole Femmu!"

Ironic Asimov - HP 96/96 AC 23/14/21 CMD 24 & Irony(worn) HP 53/53 Hardness 6 -- Hugh d20+22=23 ;
Sunday March 24th, 2024 3:34:08 PM
(Spellcraft: 23)

Asimov attempts to determine what the spell-like ability was and most likely fails

Mitch - The Twins HP 141/141 AC 35/18/30 CMD 37
Sunday March 24th, 2024 8:32:58 PM
The Twins are scanning the area looking for danger and so don't even see the pair disappear into thin air.

Zeoll (AC26, 107hp) d20+8=21 ;
Monday March 25th, 2024 5:40:31 AM
Spellcraft to assist Asimov ... 21

"Did you see that shimmerr?" Zeoll says. "maybe it means ..."

No Good Deed Goes Unpunished (DM Cayzle)
Monday March 25th, 2024 5:45:47 AM

Indeed, the spell-like ability the dwarf used was Teleport.

You look around the field. The ground is torn up and bloody. You are alone. So! Will you give up and allow your healer to be taken? or will you DO something about it?

[OOC: Feel free to suggest ways for Zeoll to help. He is always willing to try anything.]

Mitch - The Twins HP 141/141 AC 35/18/30 CMD 37
Monday March 25th, 2024 6:47:58 AM
The Twins notice something wrong and turn around to find the pair gone. "Well." "Now what?" they ask, having no way to possibly track someone who's teleported.

Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant Lvl 11 (7'4"/16'6") (Kim) AC 22 Touch 16 FF20 HP 131/131 d20+10=23 ;
Monday March 25th, 2024 3:09:17 PM

"Shall we track where the dwarf came from, and where the tiger came from?" asks Yofiel. "The cat can't be too far off yet."

After asking, she herself examines the cat tracks, and begins to follow them, but not getting too far away from the party - no more than 40-50 yards.

Ironic Asimov - HP 96/96 AC 23/14/21 CMD 24 & Irony(worn) HP 53/53 Hardness 6 -- Hugh
Monday March 25th, 2024 5:26:19 PM
Asimov asks, "Is there any way to track where a teleport spell went? I mean they could have gone almost literally anywhere. While Occam's razor would suggest the Dwarf would return from whence he came he might not be originally from here and could be hundreds of miles away from here if it was the normal version or anywhere in the Wold or Jericho space if it was the Greater version."

Elron -- SteveM -- HP: 113/113 | AC: 26 | DR: 3/-- + 5/magic | SR: 17 | Move: 60' d20+10=14 ;
Monday March 25th, 2024 7:38:54 PM
Elron helps with the tracking effort, although he's looking for where the dwarf went as well as where it came from. And to see if the cat left tracks, because he thinks the timing of this "attack" is mighty suspicious and could have been some sort of trick of the mind.

Survival = 14, maybe enough to aid another.

Zeoll (AC26, 107hp) d20+8=9 ; d20+9=18 ; d20+12=32 ;
Tuesday March 26th, 2024 9:29:01 PM

Zeoll puts his magical lore to work answering the question.

Spellcraft 9
Know Arcana 18.

"I can't think of how to trrack a teleporterr, but we can use scrrying and divination to get answerrs, maybe."

Zeoll also assists with tracking. Aid Another Survival plus scent ... 32.

Mysterious tracks (DM Cayzle)
Tuesday March 26th, 2024 9:36:15 PM

It is easy to follow the dwarf back along where he came from. Tracking the dwarf shows, before the tracks peter out, that the dwarf came from the southeast, toward the Cinnamon Valley.

It is also possible to see the tracks of the beast that attacked him. The beast’s prints begin and end nearby, as if it appeared out of nowhere, attacked, and then disappeared.

Roll Know Nature DC20 to ID the tracks: Highlight to display spoiler: {The attacker was a tiger, odd in this terrain.}

Ironic Asimov - HP 96/96 AC 23/14/21 CMD 24 & Irony(worn) HP 53/53 Hardness 6 -- Hugh d20+8=10 ;
Tuesday March 26th, 2024 11:31:39 PM
Know - Nature 10

Asimov doesn't recognize the tracks.

He asks of the trackers, "So the animal just appeared randomly nearby and disappeared and the Dwarf just appeared on the trail from Cinnamon Valley? So what did they both teleport here, fight each other and then both teleport away with Dwarf absconding with our Healer?"

Mitch - The Twins HP 141/141 AC 35/18/30 CMD 37
Wednesday March 27th, 2024 7:01:24 AM
The Twins frown at the tracks. "Presumably ..." "it was some sort of set up?" "A summoned animal?" "and a fake attack?"

Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant Lvl 11 (7'4"/16'6") (Kim) AC 22 Touch 16 FF20 HP 131/131 d20+3=4 ;
Wednesday March 27th, 2024 2:21:48 PM

Despite that the group saw a tiger attacking the dwarf, Mundhildur is not acquainted with tiger tracks... despite that they are clearly there, and she can follow them. "So, this big cat - right, Asimov, and twins - just showed up, and disappeared. Maybe it flew in, and can turn invisible. Or maybe it was summoned."

She listens to Zeoll, too. "So, you think you can scry Femmu? And ask divine questions?"

Knowledge nature: 4 (ugh)

Elron -- SteveM -- HP: 113/113 | AC: 26 | DR: 3/-- + 5/magic | SR: 17 | Move: 60' d20+3=22 ;
Wednesday March 27th, 2024 6:52:39 PM
(know nature = 22)

"Well, them's tiger tracks. And see here. . . It had a slight limp in it's right front paw. Tiger's ain't much found 'round these parts."

Elron wonders how someone would know to target Lady Femmu with them, and how many might be involved in the plot. He uses his ring of chameleon power to appear as much like Lady Femmu as he can. Admittedly, he can't appear to be her full stature, or fool someone familiar with her, or sound like her. But someone working from a quick description might be taken in until they're close enough to pounce on.

Zeoll (AC26, 107hp)
Wednesday March 27th, 2024 9:17:08 PM

"I don't have any scrrying, but I can cast Legend Lorre," says Zeoll. "I would welcome ideas on how to use the spell."

Some sort of a set-up (DM Cayzle)
Wednesday March 27th, 2024 9:20:25 PM

The Twins cleverly conclude that this was all just a set-up, and the tiger conjured for the purpose of realism in creating injuries.

Elron has a solid idea for a disguise ... though maybe it is a bit like closing the barn door after the horse has bolted!

The party has questions. Will Zeoll's spell offer answers?

Ironic Asimov - HP 96/96 AC 23/14/21 CMD 24 & Irony(worn) HP 53/53 Hardness 6 -- Hugh
Wednesday March 27th, 2024 11:38:07 PM
Asimov says, "Welp I got nothing in my Design Folio that can help in this situation. However if we are going to be faced with an organization that can just teleport away if we find them I can prepare up to 4 dimensional anchor ray guns but if I prepare all 4I can't prepare anything else that is a more powerful gadget. The problem with Legend Lore is we don't have Lady Femmu at hand anymore so it will take between 1 and 10 days for you to cast it Zeoll and we have no clue as to who the Dwarf is so I guess it would take weeks to ask about him but what choice do we have. I guess it is a good sign they took her alive so that theoretically she would still be alive when we find her after the days it will take to cast Legend Lore because won't the spell provide us with enough information to supposedly track Lady Femmu down again?"

Mitch - The Twins HP 141/141 AC 35/18/30 CMD 37
Thursday March 28th, 2024 7:11:42 AM
The Twins consider, then just shrug. "Let's just find the nearest town." "Ask around." "We don't have any better leads." (OOC I think Legend Lore is useless as there are unlikely to be useful legends related to random kidnapping that just happened.)

Elron -- SteveM -- HP: 113/113 | AC: 26 | DR: 3/-- + 5/magic | SR: 17 | Move: 60' d20-1=12 ;
Thursday March 28th, 2024 9:49:48 PM
Elron tries to remember any details about the dwarf that might help Zeoll use his spell. (Guessing an Int check to remember, and Elron had rolled a 23 perception approaching the scene).

Int check = 12

Asimov - HP 96/96 AC 19/14/17 CMD 24 & Irony HP 53/53 AC 31/13/28 Hardness 6 CMD 23 -- Hugh
Friday March 29th, 2024 1:25:41 AM
(OOC: Checking in)

Seeing as combat is over Asimov lets Irony stop being armor

He waits to hear what the party decides

Zeoll (AC26, 107hp) d20+1=13 ;
Friday March 29th, 2024 1:21:10 PM

Zeoll says, "That's true, the spell takes a lot longer to cast if stuff is not at hand. Huh."

He helps Elron recall details. Int 13.

Details recalled (DM Cayzle)
Friday March 29th, 2024 1:28:39 PM

The party seems at a loss and determines to head for a village or town.

Elron and Zeoll put heads together. They recall that dwarf was dressed as a martial artist, in black, white, grey, and rose. It kind of looked like a uniform. No weapons, but he had a pack. That's gone now too. Otherwise, a typical dwarf: dark complexion, brown hair and beard, brown eyes. You would know him if you saw him again.

You are on a road, and you understand that it will fork soon. One fork heads toward the coast and Effacia the other towards the Culverwood, Rowena, and Cinnamon Valley. You recall there was a small town at the fork, with a roadhouse.

Do you head that way?

Asimov - HP 96/96 AC 19/14/17 CMD 24 & Irony HP 53/53 AC 31/13/28 Hardness 6 CMD 23 -- Hugh
Monday April 1st, 2024 2:02:32 AM
Asimov says, "Well if we head to the roadhouse we could ask after the Dwarf in the strange uniform. If he passed by that way surely some staff would have remembered him and if they don't then perhaps we went the wrong way and we try a different direction?"

Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant Lvl 11 (7'4"/16'6") (Kim) AC 22 Touch 16 FF20 HP 131/131 d20+13=28 ;
Monday April 1st, 2024 2:25:12 AM

The Jotunnar maiden thinks over the dwarf. She describes his features, the shape of his face, how he moved his hands, the sound of his voice, the temperature of his lips, as well as any features of his clothing, as she was pretty much right on top of him as she fed him the goodberry and watched him take hold of Lady Femmu's hand. She relays all she can remember of the time she spent with him - maybe 12 seconds? - to Zeoll.

"I agree with Asimov. Let's go to the roadhouse, then decide from there."

Perception to recall what she could of the duplicitous dwarf: 28

Mitch - The Twins HP 141/141 AC 35/18/30 CMD 37 d20=14 ;
Monday April 1st, 2024 7:47:01 AM
The Twins take their position at the back of the group and try to be more alert as they head towards town (14 perception).

Elron -- SteveM -- HP: 113/113 | AC: 26 | DR: 3/-- + 5/magic | SR: 17 | Move: 60'
Monday April 1st, 2024 8:42:28 PM
Elron is also ready to go to the roadhouse, although he wonders if he is still acting the part of warlord for a day. . . But no, he has taken on the guise of healer for a bit, and he can't recall any healers who were warlords.

More Details recalled (DM Cayzle)
Monday April 1st, 2024 9:53:18 PM

Mundhi tries to recall more about the dwarf. He saw the dwarf's black, white, grey, and rose outfit was very bloody, not only by the teeth and claws of a beast, but with a blade too. But his backpack was clean and tied down tight.

You head to the roadhouse and spend the night. What do you do to find out more?

Mitch - The Twins HP 141/141 AC 35/18/30 CMD 37 d20=6 ;
Tuesday April 2nd, 2024 7:56:12 AM
The Twins aren't great at gathering information but they'll try to ask about local monasteries or religious orders. (diplomacy 7 if needed)

Asimov - HP 96/96 AC 19/14/17 CMD 24 & Irony HP 53/53 AC 31/13/28 Hardness 6 CMD 23 -- Hugh d20+4=17 ;
Tuesday April 2nd, 2024 9:12:31 PM
Diplomacy : 17

Asimov asks after a Dwarf wearing a black, white, grey, and rose outfit and if anyone at the roadhouse saw him coming and/or going.

At the Roadhouse (DM Cayzle)
Tuesday April 2nd, 2024 11:43:32 PM

Yeah, one person recalls seeing the dwarf in the area, coming from the southeast.

"Looked to me like he was travelling out of Rowena or Cin Valley."

Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant Lvl 11 (7'4"/16'6") (Kim) AC 22 Touch 16 FF20 HP 131/131 d20+5=18 ;
Wednesday April 3rd, 2024 3:07:07 AM

Mundhildur gets some wood, and begins carving, trying to make a reasonable likeness of the dwarf's face.

Craft wood: 18

Then she gives it to Zeoll. "This is what he looked like, somewhat. The kidnapper."

Mitch - The Twins HP 141/141 AC 35/18/30 CMD 37
Wednesday April 3rd, 2024 8:18:01 AM
The Twins shrug. "Well that's our only lead." "The sooner we head that way" " the sooner we'll hopefully find something."

Zeoll (AC26, 107hp)
Wednesday April 3rd, 2024 5:17:27 PM

Zeoll looks at the carving of the dwarf, consulting his own memories as well.

"And this is for ... ? Casting Legend Lore? Takes some time."

OOC: 1d10 days.

Elron -- SteveM -- HP: 113/113 | AC: 26 | DR: 3/-- + 5/magic | SR: 17 | Move: 60'
Wednesday April 3rd, 2024 6:03:56 PM
Elron tells a a long and convoluted story at the roadhouse. . . "My cousin Rufus lived in a quaint little village nestled 'tween rolling hills and lush meadows. Now, Rufus warn't your ordinary rooster (as is any rooster is ordinary). No, he was a white an' gray rooster but mostly he was th' most punctual rooster in th' entire countryside. Every morning, without fail, Rufus would wake up with th' first light o' dawn and proudly announce the start of the day with his hearty cock-a-doodle-doo. . . Roosters is songbirds, you know.

"Rufus took great pride in his morning routine, and he was known far and wide for his impeccable timing. Th' villagers relied on Rufus to wake them up bright and early, ensuring they never missed th' start of their day's work.

"One day, a gnomish tinker came t' th' village an' heard 'bout Rufus. Intrigued, he decided t' put Rufus's reputation t' th' test. So for a week he stayed up t' greet th' dawn, watchin' Rufus an' tinkerin'. He had hisself a wagon full o' tools for making all manner o' things. An' he pondered and puzzled 'bout how Rufus could be so punctual.

"One morning, as th' first light o' dawn began t' peek over th' horizon, Rufus let out his customary cock-a-doodle-doo. But t' his surprise, he heard another sound echoing through the village—a loud ringing noise that seemed to mimic his own call.

"Confused, Rufus looked 'round and spotted the gnome's tent on th' outskirts of the village. There, to his amazement, he saw th' tinker's clock blaring away, perfectly imitating Rufus's crow. Realizing what had happened, Rufus couldn't help but chuckle. It seemed that even his impeccable timing couldn't outdo the cleverness of a skilled inventor.

"From that day on, Rufus and th' gnome became th' best o' friends. And while Rufus continued t' faithfully wake the villagers each morning, he couldn't help but wonder if there might be room for a little innovation in his routine. After all, a little competition never hurt no-one, 'specially when it came with a hearty dose o' laughter and friendship. And so, Rufus an' th' tinker continued t' regale th' villagers with their dueling wake-up calls, spreading joy and merriment for many years."

(OOC: Got interrupted yesterday before finishing this, but thought I'd sent it. . .}

Elron -- SteveM -- HP: 113/113 | AC: 26 | DR: 3/-- + 5/magic | SR: 17 | Move: 60'
Wednesday April 3rd, 2024 6:05:37 PM
(Never did finish it, either.)

Asimov - HP 96/96 AC 19/14/17 CMD 24 & Irony HP 53/53 AC 31/13/28 Hardness 6 CMD 23 -- Hugh
Wednesday April 3rd, 2024 9:24:01 PM
Asimov asks Zeoll, "Do you cast legend lore now or when we make it to Rowena or Cin Valley as that is where the Dwarf came from supposedly?"

Mitch - The Twins HP 141/141 AC 35/18/30 CMD 37
Thursday April 4th, 2024 5:36:16 AM
The Twins are uncertain if spending days casting a spell that may or may not help is the best use of the parties time but if the spellcasters think it will be useful they'll wait.

Zeoll (AC26, 107hp)
Thursday April 4th, 2024 6:29:48 AM
"Tomayto, Tomahto," answers Zeoll. "Eitherr way, I'll be focusing on eitherr the dwarrf orr on Lady Femmu, whateverr you guys think."

Elron -- SteveM -- HP: 113/113 | AC: 26 | DR: 3/-- + 5/magic | SR: 17 | Move: 60'
Thursday April 4th, 2024 7:52:05 PM
Elron thinks Zeoll should focus on the dwarf, but is unable to explain why. He's not a thinky person.

Asimov - HP 96/96 AC 19/14/17 CMD 24 & Irony HP 53/53 AC 31/13/28 Hardness 6 CMD 23 -- Hugh
Thursday April 4th, 2024 9:10:01 PM
Asimov says, "Along the path to Cin Valley or Rowena which city do we hit first? Perhaps we see if we can find any signs of the Dwarf or Lady Femmu there and then decide whether or not we should use Legend Lore?"

Zeoll (AC26, 107hp)
Thursday April 4th, 2024 9:51:33 PM
"So arre we headed out in the morrning, then?"

[OOC: Pick a course of action and the DM Post will respond.]

Mitch - The Twins HP 141/141 AC 35/18/30 CMD 37
Thursday April 4th, 2024 9:53:53 PM
The Twins are firmly in favor of following what little leads they have, namely heading southeast down whatever roads there are until they hit a town to try to dig up more information

Elron -- SteveM -- HP: 113/113 | AC: 26 | DR: 3/-- + 5/magic | SR: 17 | Move: 60'
Friday April 5th, 2024 5:42:17 PM
"Sure we can go. You can cast on the way, Zeoll." Besides which, Sin Valley sounds to Elron like an interesting place to visit.

Zeoll (AC26, 107hp) d10=1 ;
Friday April 5th, 2024 9:58:49 PM

Zeoll says, "Good idea, Elrron! I can cast forr eight hourrs a day, sleep forr eight hourrs a day, and trravel forr eight hourrs a day. So long as you guys don't mind me skipping my turrn on watches, we arre all set!"

The older liontaur starts on the day the group sets out.

Let's see how many days are required to cast the spell. 1d10 = 1! SO LUCKY!

Legend Lore (DM Cayzle)
Friday April 5th, 2024 10:36:02 PM

The party sets out, and Zeoll casts his spell when the travellers are not travelling. The spell ends up giving results quickly ... and yields this bit of divinatory lore:

In his House in the Valley, the Godling lies Dreaming.
While his Minions, the Mindoses, never stop Scheming.
Caring not for Disruption or Madness or Breaking,
And they stole Lady Femmu to help with the Waking.

Elron -- SteveM -- HP: 113/113 | AC: 26 | DR: 3/-- + 5/magic | SR: 17 | Move: 60'
Saturday April 6th, 2024 10:09:44 PM
Elron begins singing as they continue on their way. . . (Elron, of course, throws in the occassional doo-dah). . .

In his House in the Valley, the Godling lies Dreaming,
While his Minions, the Mindoses, never stop Scheming.
Caring not for Disruption or Madness or Breaking,
And they stole Lady Femmu to help with the Waking.

Mindoses, oh Mindoses, creatures of thought,
In the depths of the mind, their power is wrought.
With whispers and dreams, they weave their dark spell,
In the realm of the Godling, where dreams and realities dwell.

Lady Femmu, fair and gentle, caught in their snare,
Her mind they ensnared, her thoughts laid bare.
She dances in shadows, lost in their sway,
A captive of the Mindoses, night and day.

Mindoses, oh Mindoses, masters of the mind,
In the realm of dreams, they're one of a kind.
With cunning and guile, they manipulate fate,
In the Godling's realm, where dreams create.

But beware, oh mortals, of the Mindoses' call,
For once entangled, you may lose it all.
They twist and they turn, with sinister glee,
In the House of the Godling, where dreams are set free.

Yet hope still lingers, in the depths of the night,
For heroes arise to join the fight.
With courage and strength, they'll break the chains,
And rescue Lady Femmu from the Mindoses' domain.

Mindoses, oh Mindoses, heed our plea,
Release your hold and set her free.
For in the House of the Godling, light will prevail,
And banish the darkness, once and for all.

Zeoll (AC26, 107hp)
Sunday April 7th, 2024 6:56:06 PM

Zeoll laughs, hums along, and dances a bit to Elron's tune.

"Well done, my frriend! I see you have hearrd this prrophesy beforre!"

Asimov - HP 96/96 AC 19/14/17 CMD 24 & Irony HP 53/53 AC 31/13/28 Hardness 6 CMD 23 -- Hugh
Sunday April 7th, 2024 9:05:16 PM
Ayotnom asks, "What exactly are Mindoses?"

Elron -- SteveM -- HP: 113/113 | AC: 26 | DR: 3/-- + 5/magic | SR: 17 | Move: 60'
Sunday April 7th, 2024 11:13:20 PM
"Ain't heard no prophecy. Just sayin' that if th' godlin's sleeping it's th' minions we should worry 'bout."

Mitch - The Twins HP 141/141 AC 35/18/30 CMD 37
Monday April 8th, 2024 9:28:21 AM
Well. At least they have a name to ask about. The Twins will plan on asking about this cult at the next town.

Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant Lvl 11 (7'4"/16'6") (Kim) AC 22 Touch 16 FF20 HP 131/131 d20+8=11 ; d20+8=24 ;
Tuesday April 9th, 2024 6:05:33 AM

Since her resurrection by the hand of Lady Femmu, Mundhildur has been grateful, yet sometimes has felt detached. But on hearing Elron put to song Zeoll's revelation, she learns the tune. She hums along (at first rather inexpertly - perform singing: 11)

But after the rooster bard sings it once, she asks him to sing it again, and joins in with him, sometimes singing in unison, sometimes providing harmonies. And her voice has finally caught the tune, quite well (perform singing: 24).

Asimov - HP 96/96 AC 19/14/17 CMD 24 & Irony HP 53/53 AC 31/13/28 Hardness 6 CMD 23 -- Hugh
Tuesday April 9th, 2024 8:49:25 PM
Asimov says, "I suppose it could be worse. There could be a goblin king involved."

Messenger (DM Cayzle)
Tuesday April 9th, 2024 9:11:37 PM

The next day dawns and finds you all on a path in the lightly wooded hills of the southeast Contested Lands. A small songbird flutters up to you, a message tied to its leg. The message says:

“Please come release me from my bondage! I am held captive in the largest oak in this part of the Wold. Follow my messenger to find me, please, I beg you, have mercy on an innocent captive.”

Elron -- SteveM -- HP: 113/113 | AC: 26 | DR: 3/-- + 5/magic | SR: 17 | Move: 60'
Tuesday April 9th, 2024 10:44:34 PM
"Is it signed?" Elron jokes. "I don't know if we should be rescuin' folks what we ain't been introduced t', even in writin'."

Elron kind of assumes they will see about rescuing this person. Hopefully it won't delay finding Lady Femmu.

Mitch - The Twins HP 141/141 AC 35/18/30 CMD 37
Wednesday April 10th, 2024 5:08:06 AM
"Lady Femmu is a healer." "Maybe she has druidic powers and she sent this." the Twins point out.

Zeoll (AC26, 107hp)
Wednesday April 10th, 2024 9:06:46 PM

Zeoll asks, "So, arre we following this birdie orr no?"

Asimov - HP 96/96 AC 19/14/17 CMD 24 & Irony HP 53/53 AC 31/13/28 Hardness 6 CMD 23 -- Hugh
Thursday April 11th, 2024 2:07:07 AM
Asimov says,"Maybe we split up? Half of us go after Femmu; half of us the birdie?"

Elron -- SteveM -- HP: 113/113 | AC: 26 | DR: 3/-- + 5/magic | SR: 17 | Move: 60'
Thursday April 11th, 2024 9:45:40 PM
Elron assumes the Twins are right and starts chasing after the bird.

Mitch - The Twins HP 141/141 AC 35/18/30 CMD 37
Friday April 12th, 2024 4:42:40 AM
The Twins take off after Elron.

Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant Lvl 11 (7'4"/16'6") (Kim) AC 22 Touch 16 FF20 HP 131/131
Friday April 12th, 2024 2:25:18 PM

"We go together," insists Mundhildur. "The way things go, one thing leads to another. Let us find the one who sent the message."

Tree (DM Cayzle)
Friday April 12th, 2024 7:23:30 PM

The bird leads you to a magnificent, ancient oak, its branches heavy with ripe acorns. The bird lands on a twig next to a very small whole, no more than an inch in diameter. It sings prettily.

From the hole you hear a young female voice calling. “My friend, you have returned. Did you bring help this time?”

Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant Lvl 11 (7'4"/16'6") (Kim) AC 22 Touch 16 FF20 HP 131/131
Saturday April 13th, 2024 3:08:11 AM

How high up is the tiny hole? If it is lower than 17 feet above the roots, Mundhildur will draw near in her huge size. If lower than 11 feet, in her large size. If lower than 8 feet, in her medium size. "Hello. Who is in the tree?"

Elron -- SteveM -- HP: 113/113 | AC: 26 | DR: 3/-- + 5/magic | SR: 17 | Move: 60'
Sunday April 14th, 2024 9:48:59 AM
Elron sings along with the bird, still under the impression that this is Lady Femmu using her druidly powers to get their help.

In the forest deep, where shadows loom,
A damsel fair is trapped in gloom.
Lady Femmu, held by a spell,
In the clutches of a twisted hell.

Adventurers, arise and ride,
Through the woods, where fears reside.
With courage bold, they'll set her free,
This band of heroes, united we'll be.

The rooster crows with dawn's first light,
His call a beacon, fierce and bright.
The giantess strides with steps so strong,
Her arms outstretched, righting the wrongs.

The liontaur, fierce and true,
With mane ablaze, he'll see it through.
The noble twins, two souls entwined,
Their bond unbreakable, fate aligned.

The warforged android, steel and steel,
With circuits humming, he'll break the seal.
Together they march, with hearts aflame,
To rescue Lady Femmu, and stake their claim.

Adventurers, follow the bird,
Through the woods, where tears are heard.
With courage bold, they'll set her free,
This band of heroes, united we'll be.

Asimov - HP 96/96 AC 19/14/17 CMD 24 & Irony HP 53/53 AC 31/13/28 Hardness 6 CMD 23 -- Hugh d20+6=22 ;
Sunday April 14th, 2024 12:36:19 PM
Asimov has Irony fly up to the hole and peer inside. Perception - 22

Mitch - The Twins HP 141/141 AC 35/18/30 CMD 37 d20=3 ;
Monday April 15th, 2024 6:11:19 AM
It seems unlikely the dwarf is in the tree so the Twins become less interested in this turn of events. Given recent events they try to keep their eyes open for another trap (perception 3)

Tree (DM Cayzle)
Monday April 15th, 2024 11:55:22 AM

The tree seems straightforward, and the hole is not high up.

Irony and Mundhi peer in. They see a young elf girl.

Elron sings, and the girl calls out, "Who is that? Who is singing so sweetly!? Please help me get out of here! I'm Sylvie! Please please, I beg your help!"

"All I ever eat and drink are goodberries and sap. I can't bear it any more. Please free me!"

Asimov - HP 96/96 AC 19/14/17 CMD 24 & Irony HP 53/53 AC 31/13/28 Hardness 6 CMD 23 -- Hugh
Monday April 15th, 2024 5:28:26 PM
Asimov calls to the elf girl, "Is it okay if we enlarge the hole in the tree? If so Irony can probably slam into it a few times and make it large enough for your to leave out of."

Elron -- SteveM -- HP: 113/113 | AC: 26 | DR: 3/-- + 5/magic | SR: 17 | Move: 60'
Monday April 15th, 2024 9:07:47 PM
Elron immediately like this girl, not being accustomed to hearing his songs called "sweet," even if he's aware that she's imprisoned and a sudden rush of hope probably has a lot to do with her attitude.

"We'll -- I say, we'll figure out how to save you, don't worry! Is Lady Femmu all right in there, too?"

Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant Lvl 11 (7'4"/16'6") (Kim) AC 22 Touch 16 FF20 HP 131/131
Tuesday April 16th, 2024 1:45:57 AM

"Now, how is it you got inside this tree, Sylvie? And how do you get goodberries? And my name is Mundhildur," says the giantess. "Also, this is a very, very large oak. Do you know its story?"

Mitch - The Twins HP 141/141 AC 35/18/30 CMD 37
Tuesday April 16th, 2024 5:17:42 AM
Hrm. This is very strange. "We should learn more." "before we act." "There are a lot of concerns here."

Tree (DM Cayzle)
Tuesday April 16th, 2024 3:58:17 PM

Sylvie is alarmed at the idea of damaging the tree, but she wants to be free.

"Um, if you don't KILL the tree, I think that would be okay."

She calls out that it is she alone who is in the tree. Nobody else.

"I've been in here so long, and I'm so sad. Please help me. This tree is a holy tree, and my people bring me my goodberries every day. But they are not allowed to talk to me, and I'm lonely."

She begins weeping.

Asimov - HP 96/96 AC 19/14/17 CMD 24 & Irony HP 53/53 AC 31/13/28 Hardness 6 CMD 23 -- Hugh d20+19=31 ; d20+8=15 ;
Tuesday April 16th, 2024 6:07:57 PM
Asimov tries to figure out from an engineering perspective how many slams of Irony's it would take to enlarge the hole large enough for the girl to exit from. He also tries to figure out if this amount of damage would kill the tree.

Know Engineering - 31
Know Nature - 15

Elron -- SteveM -- HP: 113/113 | AC: 26 | DR: 3/-- + 5/magic | SR: 17 | Move: 60'
Tuesday April 16th, 2024 7:03:17 PM
"Well, why -- I say, why are you in there?" Elron immediately dislikes these people who would keep someone inside a tree, but he senses a story here. He thinks they should understand more before breaking something to get her out. "For that matter, how did you get in there?"

Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant Lvl 11 (7'4"/16'6") (Kim) AC 22 Touch 16 FF20 HP 131/131
Wednesday April 17th, 2024 4:18:08 AM

"Asimov, let's hold off on making the hold bigger for the moment," counsels Mundhildur. "I think Elron's questions are worth hearing the answers to."

"Sylvie, dearie, yes, please, help us understand better your circumstances. Who brings the berries?"

Tree (DM Cayzle)
Wednesday April 17th, 2024 5:53:08 AM

Sylvie says, "Well, it is the tradition of my clan that a person live in the tree and commune with the Culverwood as their life's work. Like a hermit."

Know religion DC11: Highlight to display spoiler: {This kind of hermit, who stays fixed in one place, is called an anchorite.}

"But I'm tired of this life! Ten years is enough! I want to be free."

Perception DC 15: Highlight to display spoiler: {You see a group of people approaching fast. Elves?}

Mitch - The Twins HP 141/141 AC 35/18/30 CMD 37 d6=5 ; d20=5 ;
Wednesday April 17th, 2024 7:18:21 AM
A holy tree trapping someone and regular offerings? Maybe the Twins are just being paranoid after recent events but this is starting to sound like one of those classic "Trapped demon tricks passersby into freeing it" stories. They're incredibly skeptical, (perception 5)

Elron -- SteveM -- HP: 113/113 | AC: 26 | DR: 3/-- + 5/magic | SR: 17 | Move: 60'
Wednesday April 17th, 2024 6:46:00 PM
"Sylvie, some elves are coming. You say your people won't talk to you -- will they take it amiss if we talk to you?"

Asimov - HP 96/96 AC 19/14/17 CMD 24 & Irony HP 53/53 AC 31/13/28 Hardness 6 CMD 23 -- Hugh d20+8=20 ; d20+16=21 ;
Wednesday April 17th, 2024 7:32:27 PM
Asimov says to Sylvie, "Sylvie dear, are you an anchorite? I believe that is the term for one of these fixed-place hermits."

Asimov says, "I also see Elves coming. Are they possibly Sylvie's people?"

Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant Lvl 11 (7'4"/16'6") (Kim) AC 22 Touch 16 FF20 HP 131/131 d20+3=9 ; d20+13=32 ; d20+8=26 ;
Wednesday April 17th, 2024 7:47:50 PM

Mundhildur grows up to over 16' tall. She sings out, "Elves, if in peace you come, then peace be unto you." Meanwhile, she has a hand in her bag, wrapped around a rock or two - which she hopes she does not have to use against the elves.

==========
Perform, singing: 26

Tree (DM Cayzle)
Thursday April 18th, 2024 5:32:44 AM

A band of four elves do indeed arrive on the scene. Wood elves. Dressed in green, they call out as they approach, "Halt intruders! Stand back from the holy tree of the Culverwood."

Sense Motive D 20: Highlight to display spoiler: { They are both scared and angry to see people here.}

One, an older man with an eagle on his shoulder, says aggressively, "We will brook no harm to our sacred place! Who are you, and why are you here?"

Mitch - The Twins HP 141/141 AC 35/18/30 CMD 37
Thursday April 18th, 2024 7:09:04 AM
"A talking bird" "asked us to come help."

Asimov - HP 96/96 AC 19/14/17 CMD 24 & Irony HP 53/53 AC 31/13/28 Hardness 6 CMD 23 -- Hugh d20+1=20 ;
Thursday April 18th, 2024 6:01:12 PM
Asimov says, "As Munhildur says we mean no harm so you have no reason to fear us. Have we offended you in some way? I believe you may be an anchorite religious sect correct?"

Elron -- SteveM -- HP: 113/113 | AC: 26 | DR: 3/-- + 5/magic | SR: 17 | Move: 60' d20+13=30 ;
Thursday April 18th, 2024 6:02:38 PM
(sense motive = 30)

"I resemble that remark!" Elron tells the Twins. To the elves, he says, "Are we not in the contested lands? I'm looking for a riddlin' contest. What do you know of mindoses?"

Elron isn't expecting a serious response, just trying to throw the elves off their stride. Are they within 60 feet?

Mitch - The Twins HP 141/141 AC 35/18/30 CMD 37
Thursday April 18th, 2024 9:54:32 PM
The Twins nod their heads in acknowledgment of the point. ”A talking Songbird asked us to come” they clarify

Mitch - The Twins HP 141/141 AC 35/18/30 CMD 37
Thursday April 18th, 2024 9:56:42 PM
One Twin holds their hands to about the size of said bird while the other does a hand puppet of a bird, hopefully pre-empting Elron breaking into song to prove he is a song bird and confusing the issue.

Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant Lvl 11 (7'4"/16'6") (Kim) AC 22 Touch 16 FF20 HP 131/131 d20+12=21 ;
Friday April 19th, 2024 1:36:36 AM

"We have harmed nothing here, Lord Elf. As already told, we were beckoned here, and we are speaking with Sylvie, who is lonely for a full decade spent within this holy oak, with no conversation, only goodberries to eat. Her soul weighs heavy upon her in its isolation."

She takes a five foot step away from the oak.

"I am Mundhildur. Karadottir. We seek a healer. And were sought by a woman hidden away." She pauses. "Fear not, so long as you mean us no harm. We mean you none, nor do we go about harming trees to no good purpose."

Now she shrinks down to 7'4", and awaits their response.

===========
Sense motive: 21

Tree (DM Cayzle)
Friday April 19th, 2024 9:43:23 AM

The elves advance to within 20 feet, unless you do not wish them to -- raising a weapon or even a frown will keep them further away. For now.

The leader of the elves scowls at Asimov. "Yes, you have offended us by trespassing on our holy place. Please leave now. Your singing giant, though a curiosity, has no place here."

Hearing Elron's comments, he adds, "I don't know what you are talking about, bird-man, and I do not care. Seek your foolishness elsewhere."

He ignores the Twins' talk of a bird, but when Mundhi mentions that Sylvie has been talking to you, the leader's scowl deepens.

"A proper anchorite, devoted to her vow, would raise her voice only in prayer!" This he speaks more loudly, looking at the tree, as it to let his voice carry to Sylvie's ears.

Elron -- SteveM -- HP: 113/113 | AC: 26 | DR: 3/-- + 5/magic | SR: 17 | Move: 60' d20+17=20 ; d20+15=31 ;
Friday April 19th, 2024 12:38:33 PM
Elron recognizes but ignores the Twins' actions. He isn't sure what an anchorite is, but seeing that Sylvie is the anchorite and not this elf who thinks mindoses are foolishness, he decides that Sylvie is the one who knows what's proper for an anchorite.

Elron's idea is to make the leader think for a moment. His more problematic implementation of this idea is to move up, perform a touch of serenity on the leader, and move back where he was. . . (No doubt Zeoll will have to drop a peace bomb after this, but that's not what Elron is thinking.)

So, using spring attack Elron can move up to 60' and perform an attack along that path after having moved 10', without his target being able to use an AOO. He uses his acrobatics to keep the other elves from getting AOO, rolling a 20 on his check against their CMD (there are adjustments based on number and placement) -- Against any that get AOOs, his AC will be 32 instead of his normal 26 for mobility and underfoot. And his touch attack hits AC 31 and causes no damage, but the target is unable to attack or cast spells for 1 round unless it makes a DC 20 Will save.

Asimov - HP 96/96 AC 19/14/17 CMD 24 & Irony HP 53/53 AC 31/13/28 Hardness 6 CMD 23 -- Hugh d20+4=13 ;
Friday April 19th, 2024 8:52:36 PM
Asimov says, "I am sorry to have intruded upon your holy ground but we did so in seeking to help someone claimed to be trapped. We are a heroic group of adventurers and generally when we hear of someone in trouble we try to help them out. It would seem that your sister in the anchorite here does not wish to be an anchorite any longer and has thusly raised her voice in a call for help instead of prayer. Perhaps we could get her out of here and you could replace her with a different member of your sect that wishes to be a proper Anchorite? I see know reason for this to escalate further and we only wish to help Sylvie find freedom if she no longer wishes to be shackled to a tree."

Diplomacy - 13

Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant Lvl 11 (7'4"/16'6") (Kim) AC 22 Touch 16 FF20 HP 131/131
Sunday April 21st, 2024 3:35:30 AM

Mundhildur interjects, "Now, just a moment here, please. We were properly invited to this holy tree, and mean it, nor you, nor Sylvie no harm. So, the poor woman has been imprisoned here for ten years or so, with nary another soul to speak with, and fed a goodberry a day with someone who will not speak with her. Now, she prays daily - a good thing, that. But a call for help is also a prayer. It is an asking. So, I pray you, explain to us more fully - as a courtesy on your part, say, that we might better understand the situation.

"If you think we have no standing to ask - well, since we are here by invitation - we did not come unasked, ourselves. Let us share mutual patience, and understanding. Because I do intend to stand here long enough for that to happen."

As she speaks, she grows up to her medium height (which is large) of 10'5'. She keeps an open face - one of pleasant determination.

Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant Lvl 11 (7'4"/16'6") (Kim) AC 22 Touch 16 FF20 HP 131/131 d20+12=21 ; d20+3=4 ; d20+3=22 ; d20+13=31 ;
Sunday April 21st, 2024 3:40:08 AM

And... I forgot to roll:

Sense motive: 21
Knowledge, local: 4 (so, she's definitely not up on local customs)
Diplomacy: 22
Perception: 31 (to see what she can see of what the elves are doing that might be deemed of offensive nature)

Mitch - The Twins HP 141/141 AC 35/18/30 CMD 37
Monday April 22nd, 2024 8:03:49 AM
The Twins have no opinion on this tree either way and wait patiently to see what happens.

Tree (DM Cayzle)
Monday April 22nd, 2024 7:11:30 PM

Elron skips forward and makes a nonlethal attack. The elf scowls ... and that seems to erase any goodwill Elron had earned with his talented singing.

But he does not respond with any attack.

Asimov explains. His diplomacy is unconvincing, but his words earn an explanation.

"Understand, then, heathens," the lead elf says. "The anchorite swore a holy vow to be sequestered within the Holy Tree and live a life of reflection and prayer. That vow cannot be broken."

Another elf chimes in. "Sylvie willingly vowed to dedicate herself to a sacred life as an anchorite. She swore an oath. Just ask her."

Mundhi speaks gently and grows. Literally. She fails to sway the elves.

Motioning to the growing Mundhi and to Elron, the lead elf says, "Your words are reasonable, but your magic threatens. If we continue to disagree, will you resort to violence?"

The Twins wait to see what happens. Zeoll too!

Elron -- SteveM -- HP: 113/113 | AC: 26 | DR: 3/-- + 5/magic | SR: 17 | Move: 60'
Monday April 22nd, 2024 7:54:25 PM
"You do realize, of course, that your own man suggested we talk to Sylvie to find out what's goin' on. I think he's a wise fellow, and you ought to make him th' leader." Elron ponders the elf's question a moment. "As for your own question, I think that there'll be no need to fight if'n you just talk to Sylvie, find out what's got her upset, an' try t' solve her problem."

Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant Lvl 11 (7'4"/16'6") (Kim) AC 22 Touch 16 FF20 HP 131/131
Monday April 22nd, 2024 8:05:50 PM

"We should be able to avoid violence, yes. We came to help, not harm," Mundhildur replies.

"Sylvie, is what these fellow say true? Did you take such a vow?" If the answer is in the affirmative, she probes further. "What was your reason for having done so? Were you forced into doing so? Coerced? Or was it purely your own notion, with no prompting or encouragement by others?"

Asimov - HP 96/96 AC 19/14/17 CMD 24 & Irony HP 53/53 AC 31/13/28 Hardness 6 CMD 23 -- Hugh
Monday April 22nd, 2024 10:40:52 PM
Asimov adds, "Sylvie may be an elf but she seems young. Perhaps she entered into the vow before the typical age of adult-hood for an elf. It is one thing for an adult to swear a binding vow but quite another for a child to especially when there are long term ramifications to the binding vow that will effect them for life and their society makes the vow seem like a good thing even though it may not be for both society or the individual."

Asimov says to Sylvie, "Sylvie dear did you swear this vow before you reached a hundred and ten years of age? I believe that is the age of majority for an elf, yes?"

Mitch - The Twins HP 141/141 AC 35/18/30 CMD 37
Tuesday April 23rd, 2024 1:01:07 AM
Well at least she isn't' a demon locked away trying to trick them into letting her out. That's progress!

Tree (DM Cayzle)
Wednesday April 24th, 2024 7:32:43 PM

Sylvie is very quiet, and then whispers, "I did swear the oath, but now I want to be free! It's not fair. I can't even see the sun!"

"I did it for my family, and because I did not want to just grow up and be a clanwife, and because they said it would be 'fulfilling' but it is not."

The leader of the elves frowns and says, "She was of age, by our custom. Not that it is any of your business. She must fulfill her vow."

Asimov - HP 96/96 AC 19/14/17 CMD 24 & Irony HP 53/53 AC 31/13/28 Hardness 6 CMD 23 -- Hugh
Wednesday April 24th, 2024 9:22:19 PM
Asimov asks the gathered Elves, "Have any other anchorites regretted their decisions and wished to be freed in the past? Surely Silvie isn't the first person to choose this path only to find it isn't for her? Maybe you can revise your policy and have some sort of trial period before someone takes the vows for real, kind of like a trial period? And just what does "of age by your custom" mean? Was she truly an adult having attained a hundred and ten years of age or does your custom age children to adults too soon? There must be some way to solve this impasse? Doesn't it seem wrong to imprison someone in a tree if the reality does not match the expectations? If she was told this existence would be fulfilling and yet she is unfulfilled in spite of her best efforts to honor the vow then doesn't that render the contract null and void because one side is not holding up its end of the bargain?"

Mitch - The Twins HP 141/141 AC 35/18/30 CMD 37
Thursday April 25th, 2024 6:34:42 AM
Hrm. This is very not related to their own missing healer, but perhaps the elves will be able to offer some helpful information afterwards. The Twins resolve to ask as long as things resolve peacably.

Elron -- SteveM -- HP: 113/113 | AC: 26 | DR: 3/-- + 5/magic | SR: 17 | Move: 60'
Thursday April 25th, 2024 7:28:37 PM
"Sylvie, just what did you vow to do?" Elron has no idea what it means to live in Anchorage, but figures that Sylvie probably broadcasts the needs of her people to their god, which means that not talking to the people doesn't make sense to him.

Tree (DM Cayzle)
Friday April 26th, 2024 8:35:18 AM

The elves aver that yes, there are other anchorites. None have ever sought to break their vows.

Sylvie says that she vowed to stay in the tree and pray every day. But she does not want to any more.

Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant Lvl 11 (7'4"/16'6") (Kim) AC 22 Touch 16 FF20 HP 131/131
Friday April 26th, 2024 5:41:14 PM

"What if you hold a moot?" asks the giantess. "So, no anchorite has yet stepped aside from vows. This one wishes to do so. When people's needs and desires change, should we not consider that wise elves may meet, discuss, ask questions? If nothing else, what if you let Sylvie out long enough to be able to meet with wise elves, both lords and ladies, clerics, and others, and sort things out? Let her appeal for release from her vows, or, perhaps, to an adjustment to them. She pledged a life of service. Is there a way she might serve from some place outside of the trunk of a holy tree? Or serve part time within a tree, and part without?"

Elron -- SteveM -- HP: 113/113 | AC: 26 | DR: 3/-- + 5/magic | SR: 17 | Move: 60'
Friday April 26th, 2024 6:21:27 PM
"An' what did th' people promise when Sylvie made her vows?" Elron asks. He knows they feed her, but that she still feels neglected by them.

Asimov - HP 96/96 AC 19/14/17 CMD 24 & Irony HP 53/53 AC 31/13/28 Hardness 6 CMD 23 -- Hugh
Friday April 26th, 2024 11:14:07 PM
Asimov says, "Could Sylvie have a furlough to talk to another Anchorite at least?"

Tree (DM Cayzle)
Friday April 26th, 2024 11:37:49 PM
[OOC: You guys are trying to offer ideas, but I need some skill rolls to go with them!]

Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant Lvl 11 (7'4"/16'6") (Kim) AC 22 Touch 16 FF20 HP 131/131 d20=18 ;
Saturday April 27th, 2024 2:59:49 AM
That was supposed to be a diplomacy +3, so 21 for Mundhildur.

Elron -- SteveM -- HP: 113/113 | AC: 26 | DR: 3/-- + 5/magic | SR: 17 | Move: 60' d20+15=29 ;
Sunday April 28th, 2024 11:04:01 PM
As he does when he doesn't seem to be getting through to narrowminded (or any other type of) folk, Elron turns up the volume. Now, hold on just a cotton-pickin' minute! Are ya tryin' to tell me that no other anchorite has ever wanted to break their vows? Well, that, I say, that just don't add up! I reckon there's more to this than meets the eye. Ya see, I got me a sneaky suspicion that Sylvie ain't the problem here. It's the community that's been givin' her the cold shoulder! Well, forgive me if I ain't convinced o' your goodwill, but I've seen how some folks 'round here can be mighty judgmental. Maybe Sylvie felt like she couldn't turn to nobody for help! Maybe she felt like she had to go it alone, with nobody to lend her a hand! You know as well as I do that life ain't always black and white. Sometimes ya gotta bend a little, ya gotta show some compassion! Sylvie's in a pickle, and it ain't fair to leave her hangin' high and dry like a scarecrow in a storm! This ain't about precedents, it's about doin' what's right! Sylvie's a good elf, with a heart as big as a dragon's treasure hoard. She deserves a chance to find her own path, to spread her wings and fly, figuratively speakin'! She's one of your'n, and it ain't right to leave her out in the cold like a snowflake in summer! Show her some kindness, some compassion, and help her find her way back into the fold!"

(Intimidate = 29 (or 25 if you take the size penalty) but Elron's really trying to convince them there's no point in arguing with him -- so they should talk to Sylvie -- rather than that they should be scared.)

Asimov - HP 96/96 AC 19/14/17 CMD 24 & Irony HP 53/53 AC 31/13/28 Hardness 6 CMD 23 -- Hugh d20+4=16 ;
Sunday April 28th, 2024 11:19:28 PM
Diplomacy : 16

Mitch - The Twins HP 141/141 AC 35/18/30 CMD 37
Monday April 29th, 2024 8:21:19 AM
The Twins have no real position on this debate. They've seen many cultures with many strange and unusual religious practices and they have no interest in judging or interfering.

Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant Lvl 11 (7'4"/16'6") (Kim) AC 22 Touch 16 FF20 HP 131/131
Tuesday April 30th, 2024 3:50:50 PM

Mundhildur nudges Zeoll. "You want to add to or support any of these ideas, friend?"

Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant Lvl 11 (7'4"/16'6") (Kim) AC 22 Touch 16 FF20 HP 131/131 d20+3=12 ; d20+3=12 ; d20+3=21 ; d20+12=28 ;
Wednesday May 1st, 2024 7:48:15 PM

The Jotunar considers her knowledge of arcana (12) to see if that provides her any insight into the magic of the tree, as well as knowledge, nature (12). Then she considers what she has picked up here and there about knowledge, religion (21) to see if that helps her better understand, or come up with a line of persuasion for these elf folk.

Then she considers motives (sense motive: 28) to discern whether there is some aspect to what the elfs desire that might give a place of leverage.

"Good elfs. If a girl child suffers an illness, is it customary among you to berate her for feeling ill? For having an elevated temperature, or a bad cough? Or do you take a different approach to caring for the girl?"

Elron -- SteveM -- HP: 113/113 | AC: 26 | DR: 3/-- + 5/magic | SR: 17 | Move: 60'
Thursday May 2nd, 2024 7:29:08 PM
Elron glowers at the elves, unwilling to give up on this idea of convincing them they don't want to argue with him. But he doesn't keep arguing while Mundhildur is talking so reasonably. (He suspects he'll get to argue soon enough, and considers his arguments while he glowers.)

An Elvish Standoff - DM Hugh
Monday May 6th, 2024 6:07:59 PM
Mundhildur suggests the Anchorites hold a moot.

They don't seem very receptive to that idea (OOC: failed vs Diplomacy DC)

Asimov suggests they at least allow Sylvie a furlough so she can talk to another Anchorite

They are less open to that suggestions than Munhildur's (OOC: Failed worse than Mundy on the Diplomacy DC)

Elron gives an angry impassioned speech which does seem to cow the elves a little at least momentarily
(OOC: Passed an Intimidate DC)

The twins don't really have a position.

The elves collect themselves and one speaks, "Think very carefully as to what your next words or actions are. Perhaps you'd do better to reflect upon what you know, what skills you have and what you perceive before you next open your mouths. If we don't like what you have to say, you may not like what happens next."

Asimov - HP 96/96 AC 19/14/17 CMD 24 & Irony HP 53/53 AC 31/13/28 Hardness 6 CMD 23 -- Hugh d20+13=33 ; d20+16=23 ;
Monday May 6th, 2024 6:12:10 PM
Asimov silently reflects upon what he knows of surviving in harmony with the land and what he perceives of these elves.

Survival: 33
Perception: 23

Elron -- SteveM -- HP: 113/113 | AC: 26 | DR: 3/-- + 5/magic | SR: 17 | Move: 60'
Monday May 6th, 2024 10:21:33 PM
Elron, who's never been silent or reflective, says, "Ain't no one ever not liked what I had t' say. Tell me if you heard this one. . . Missus Radcliff, in one o' her books -- she wrote romances -- mentions an anchorite's cave. A young lady, who was edifyin' herself by th' perusal o' this book, didn't understood what that was. She deduced, Why, it must be a blacksmith's shop."

(OOC: It was considered humorous in 1835.)

Mitch - The Twins HP 141/141 AC 35/18/30 CMD 37 d20+23=33 ; d20=2 ;
Tuesday May 7th, 2024 8:07:03 AM
The Twins decide to finally speak. Though no great diplomats they hope to help prevent things escalating to violence. "Peace everyone." "We apologize for any offense." "and we understand that outsiders telling you how to practice your religion." "Is distasteful." "We merely wished." "To help someone who asked for help." (aid another 3 so possibly not to helpful)

Diplomatic Zeoll d20+26=31 ;
Tuesday May 7th, 2024 9:20:40 AM

Following the Twins' example, Zeoll tries to cool the situation. "The elf has been in the tree for what? many years? Another while won't hurt. Let us all sit down, in respect for the traditions of these people, and have a simple talk. I hope that will appeal more than conflict?"

Diplomacy 31

Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant Lvl 11 (7'4"/16'6") (Kim) AC 22 Touch 16 FF20 HP 131/131 d20+3=9 ; d20+7=22 ; d20+8=12 ;
Tuesday May 7th, 2024 6:21:36 PM

"Oh, yes, yes, if you will, good elfs!" Mundhi's parents always called elves elfs, and dwarves dwarfs. They preferred the voiceless labio-dental fricative followed by a voiceless labio-velar sibilant, to the voiced versions of the two consonants. "For if you were bad elfs, you might by this time already peppered us with arrows. Well, speaking of pepper, I carry good food, and plenty of spices. Is there a place nearby where we could sit and talk, and share a bit of something tasty? Also, I could brew some tea, as well as coffee. I have a pot for each.

"I prefer good people as friends, not foes. What do you say to old Zeoll's invitation?"

============
Diplomacy, aid another: 9 ... well, not quite enough for +2, unless she use a hero point to be more persuasive...
Diplomacy, aid another: 22 to add to Zeoll's charming request, as reflected in the following extra bit of her appeal:
============

"Oh, also, we can tell you of our quest to help another girl who is not free to roam. She is the sweetest thing, and likes little stories acted out by sock puppets. Here, I have one in my bag." Mundhi drops the rock she was holding, reaches into her bag, and pulls out a sock puppet made to look like a little lamb, which she places on her left hand. In a high-pitched voice, she moves the mouth of the puppet, and sings a little song, barely moving her own lips:

I am Lambkin, young and spry
When rain falls down, my skin stays dry
Frolick with Danni is what I do
She rolls in the grass, and I do too!

"Danni, or Daniella, is our young friend, who lies ill. We are on a quest to find a healer to restore her to health. If you'll sit with us a bit, we can tell you what happened to the healer, who was found by us, then stolen by a dwarf."
============
Perform, singing: 12 - for Lambkin's song. Passable, but not spectacular

DM Hugh - The Elf Village
Tuesday May 7th, 2024 11:54:59 PM
Asimov reflects on living in harmony with the land and what he's observed about these elves. Their choice of food offerings for one living in a tree are vegetarian in nature and Asimov himself knows how to harvest some edible / medicinal plants of his own.

Elron offers up a joke

The Twins attempt to aid the next person attempting Diplomacy although they were unsuccessful individually in their attempt both Zeoll and Munhildur build on the sentiment.

The Twins attemped to explain where the party is coming from, Zeoll suggests taking a step back and just talking things out and Munhildur opines she prefers to make a friend rather than a foe.. She even offers up an amateurish rendition of Lambkins song.

Who can say why but something shifts in the Elves and they say, "Very well. Let's return to our base of operations and have a discussion. Sylvie can come too for at least the duration of our discussion. We have food, shelter and potential aid to offer after our discussion."

One of the elves takes a wooden stylus from their pocket and draws a circle in the wood of Sylvies tree. In a moment the bark of the withdraws and a hole appears right where the circle was drawn. One of the Elves helps Sylvie down out of the tree while the one with the stylus taps the stylus above the whole and the bark of the tree starts to expand over the temporary hole.

You take a brief walk though the wood until you reach a rope lift device. Gradually the elves, Sylvie and party are taken up the rope lift device in groups until you find yourselves in a treetop village of sorts. Toward the center of the village there is a gathering hall and it is there the Elves take you and Sylvie.

"Let us talk." One of the elves says, "My name is Licht and I am the current leader of our fair village. Please make yourselves at home."

Asimov - HP 96/96 AC 19/14/17 CMD 24 & Irony HP 53/53 AC 31/13/28 Hardness 6 CMD 23 -- Hugh
Tuesday May 7th, 2024 11:56:13 PM
Asimov decides to let the other party members say something first considering the last time he said something it didn't go well.

Mundhildur Karadottir, Jotun singing giant Lvl 11 (7'4"/16'6") (Kim) AC 22 Touch 16 FF20 HP 131/131
Wednesday May 8th, 2024 4:38:27 AM

Out of courtesy, Mundhildur shrinks down to 7'4".

Looking up through the gaps in the forest roof, she says, "There, Sylvie. The sun!" She gets a good look at the pale young female elf, so that later she might describe her in song. She quietly asks, "What do you do for exercise within the tree, dear?"

As they arrive, she marvels at the treetop village, and walks as lightly as she might at such an altitude, ready to levitate if need be.

As they settle in, Miss Karadottir says, "Thank you, Leader Licht, and your people. My name is Mundhildur Karadottir, a Jotunar from the mountains. I think that Zeoll is our leader, being a very wise bard." She defers to him to set the tone.

Mitch - The Twins HP 141/141 AC 35/18/30 CMD 37
Wednesday May 8th, 2024 8:21:00 AM
The Twins go back to being quiet, observing events with curious neutrality.

Diplomatic Zeoll
Wednesday May 8th, 2024 1:58:25 PM

Zeoll sits down and listens to the conversation.

DM Hugh - answer
Wednesday May 8th, 2024 6:28:07 PM
(OOC: yes JonS)

Elron -- SteveM -- HP: 113/113 | AC: 26 | DR: 3/-- + 5/magic | SR: 17 | Move: 60' d20+13=23 ;
Wednesday May 8th, 2024 11:43:19 PM
Elron is glad that the elves have decided to talk.

But the actions of the elves are not what he expected. He watches Sylvie as they head to their destination, wondering how she feels about this change of events. (sense motive = 23)

DM Hugh - The convo continues
Thursday May 9th, 2024 12:19:12 AM
Elron watches Sylvie as they head towards the destination to get a gauge of her reaction.

She seems to be really happy to have been granted at least a temporary reprieve skipping along with the rest of the group.

She is slight elf with light blonde hair and pale fair skin.

When they reach their destination Asimov, the Twins and Zeoll all decide to listen.

Mundi introduces herself and defers to Zeoll.

Licht says to the party, "We seem to be somewhat at an impasse. Truth be told I am not unsympathetic to Sylvie's plight but we do have our customs and traditions that must be upheld. Perhaps this fulough from her tree while you are our guests here will be enough of a break for her to return to her duties when you move on?"

He looks hopefully at Sylvie

Sylvie says, "I don't know. I've spent years in that tree and while it is nice to be free now to feel the sun on my skin and the wind in my hair I don't know if this is enough."

What do you do?

Asimov - HP 96/96 AC 19/14/17 CMD 24 & Irony HP 53/53 AC 31/13/28 Hardness 6 CMD 23 -- Hugh d20+13=25 ; d20+8=20 ;
Thursday May 9th, 2024 12:24:31 AM
Asimov says, "When we met previously you said you lived in harmony with nature and I notice you possess the ability to install and remove Anchorite's from trees without damaging the tree thanks to that stylus you used. Is there anything in the vow that says an Anchorite couldn't perhaps model their existence after a dryad who not only has a tree but tends a grove? You said the ground on which Sylvie's tree sat was sacred. Are the other trees in the area in need of tending? Perhaps Sylvie could become an Anchorite who acts like a Dryad?"

Survival: 25
Know[Nature]: 20

Mitch - The Twins HP 141/141 AC 35/18/30 CMD 37
Thursday May 9th, 2024 6:52:18 AM
The Twins have seen many unusual religious practices. Really this doesn't even crack the top 20 for them.

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