The Next Day Dawns (co-DM SteveK) Sunday March 3rd, 2019 4:54:27 PM
Asteria wraps her blanket cloak about her, perhaps in compensation, or perhaps in defiance to what the gift cloaks may represent?
Wilford re-organizes his goods and contemplates what he needs for the next challenge.
Ethani and Lornak keeps private things private, behind a curtain where none need speak of matters between couples.
Lornak separates the gains of the Tide equitably enough, and promises to take the magic and equipment unwanted to the Catacombs.
Toston saves his loot while Hmerrin goes shopping.
And Gaffer is keen to decipher the map and have an adventure where there is clean air and clean hearts, instead of the wheels within wheels of Dirt City. ............
The morning dawns with clouds skidding across the sky; grey monsters are billowing from the west over Blanc de Forest. Even the lowest Grubber knows that it will be rain by mid-day. It looks like a day for quick shopping and then huddling in Shale House to review what the Tide and/or their allies know about ... the map.
...........
OOC: Please finish updating PC Sheets and Catacombs purchases. DanK and SteveK will review PC sheets for approval.
Toston heads to the WLA for some much needed due paying and training.
Wilford Grimly (HP:47/47; AC: 19; Touch: 12; Flat: 16; CMD: 18) Monday March 4th, 2019 9:28:36 AM
Wil finds a private room to organize his thoughts and his equipment. He takes a breath and recollects all the activity from lately. He offers prayers to Gargul and says goodbye. He introduces himself to Alemi and begins to pay for guidance for his new mission of protection. Afterward, Wil takes his dark cloak and dyes it white. He takes a bath and washes the blood from his body. He returns to the common room after a long period and appears different, lighter. That is until he begins to bat at an invisible pest. "Dang it, you. Is it not possible for me to stand her like a sane man?" Wil cursed. "Oh, if it's not you then who is it? Ah... Igor great. Now there is an Igor. Don't tell me you invited a new annoyance..."
Rain and Plans (co-DM SteveK) Monday March 4th, 2019 4:53:35 PM
Toston goes to the WLA for some long-overdue training and dues. Bringing the gnome to the next level of training at the near-clandestine WLA Outpost takes just over a month of daily workouts in the salle in the morning, and literary discussions in the afternoon.
Wilford, Asteria, Hmerrin, Lornak, and others who wish to frequent the Catacombs are able to do so, but it seems there is a 'snafu' with delivery and it is nigh two fortnights before goods are actually delivered by special messenger to Shale House. "My apologies, heroes", says the lead mare of the centaur troop as they pass out parcels, "but for some reason the address to deliver was Marsh House in Dockside. Catacombs needed to ensure the orders came to the right people, so they did a study to ensure you were the buyers. Catacombs prides itself on always getting the delivery right!"
Those who shop and interact in the City Above find the rains that threatened on the first day have come to stay. Every day is an afternoon downpour. The denizens of Dirt CIty travel the mud-laden streets in the morning under a sky that barely shows the haze of a sun, and tend to huddle near fires for the afternoon and into the night.
On a good note, the seasonal Fall rains reduce the intrigue and nefarious deeds of Dirt City (at least in the City Above). Coupled with the newly installed Prince's Curfew to keep the peace seems to make daily events in the city 'only dangerous' compared to 'chaotically nighmarish'.
As it is, a month of rains have passed...
......
ooc 1: all PCs are at least minimum xp for 9th level.
ooc2: all PCs have completed necessary training and shopping for changes to their PC Sheets
ooc3: email DanK and SteveK when your PC Sheet is ready for review/approval
Gaffer (Courtney HP: 78/78 AC:21(T:16/FF:15) CMD:20 WS 3/3 LL 8/8) Monday March 4th, 2019 6:53:49 PM
Gaffer looks to spend his time helping at the Temple as he had with Ethani, his previous visit showing him just how badly the people are still struggling with all the damage done to the city. The Prince's words may have spurred him on a little to be more active with the aid he offers.
He would also like to ask around the city to see of there are any groups looking to care for the wildlife beyond the walls of Dirt City, making up for the damage caused by the blood weeds, and he is curious whether any new
Hmerrin(HP 83/83 AC:25 T:15 FF:21 CMD:25) Monday March 4th, 2019 7:50:59 PM
This is Hmerrin's very first rainy season in Dirt City.
He is not a fan.
For about the 700th time, he opens the front door, takes a look at the street, sighs heavily, whines, "Will it EVER stop raining??", and tromps back upstairs to the woodshop where he's been methodically tearing apart and rebuilding every chair in the building.
Lornak (Frank S.) HP: 79/79 AC: 23(T:13/FF:10) CMD:15(16) d20+8=17 ; d20+14=17 ; d20=12 ; Monday March 4th, 2019 8:43:48 PM
During the month of rains Lornak finds time studying the potions he picked up from the Tower of Desolation. Potion of Tongues and Giant Wasp Potion respectively. He tries to reverse engineer them in order to learn how to craft them. (Alchemy d20=17)
He also finds the time to reach out to his Twilight Ranger contacts and source more Drow Poison. (Knowledge(Local) d20=17, Gather Information (d20=12) He manages to find 6 doses which cost him 464 Gold. He adds it to his inventory.
In the remaining time he drinks ale and fine meals with his friends. Most importantly he spends enough quality time that he can with Ethani.
Shepherd Ethani (Nellie, AC 20, HP 47/47, CMB 4, CMD 17) Monday March 4th, 2019 9:30:26 PM
Finding great reward in joining Gaffer at the Temple. She does her best to help ease some of suffering in the city. She invites Wil to join them, very excited about his new journey.
As she entertains with Lornak, she brings up a topic that has been on her mind. "Since we are gone for days on end, I think we need to hire a young orphan to care for Perry and maybe even Vin. What do you think?"
Asteria Amarante [HP: 84/84; AC: 20; Touch: 12; Flat: 20; CMD: 20] Monday March 4th, 2019 9:47:03 PM
Asteria shows off her flashy new stuff the moment she gets it. "Look guys! You may have cool new cloaks, but do you have fancy new armor, weapons, AND a cool new tattoo? I thought not! Don't I look so cool?"
The rains do little to dampen her spirit, as she stays indoors at bars and pubs around the city singing at the top of her lungs, hoping to kindle the spirits of the downtrodden inhabitants of Dirt City with her cheers. At night, she cuddles in her bed with Perri, doing her best to soothe the frightened pup from the storms.
Toston Lotor(Hugh Crosmun) [HP: 59/59; AC:22/20/18 - CMD 24 Monday March 4th, 2019 10:18:10 PM
Toston says, "Maybe they should call it Mud City?" Toston observes jokingly.
(OOC: My character sheet is pending approval from the PTB. I have abstained from the decision being one of the PTB soooo I will let you know what they rule when I know what they rule)
Lornak (Frank S.) HP: 79/79 AC: 23(T:13/FF:10) CMD:15(16) Tuesday March 5th, 2019 12:34:49 AM
Also during the month of rains, Lornak finds the time to design and add tattoos to his body commemorating the extraordinary events that he has experienced in past months:
He adds an image of meteors streaking down from the heavens to his upper right back. Above the scapula but below the collar. The image commemorates witnessing the meteor shower(skies falling) during The Great Quake.
He adds an image of Tall grasses bowing on a windswept plain. It is located below his right hip and wraps around to his buttocks. It commemorates having traveled to another plane of existence.(Valley of Twilight/Sargrass Plains before being restored to the Wold)
He adds an image of One face that is actually Two resting on his right Pectoral muscle. Once face is dark the other light but combined look like one. The image commemorates when he met Gargul and Alemi face to face, in the flesh.
Rain and Cold (co-DM SteveK) Tuesday March 5th, 2019 2:41:35 PM
Gaffer becomes more active, helping at the Temple with Ethani, and spurred to be more active with the aid he offers. In the mornings, he asks about to those who look to be amiable enough to speak about any groups looking to care for the wildlife beyond the walls of Dirt City. The young druid may be surprised to find out that in a month of asking, no one knows of any group that care a fig about anything further than spitting distance from the last hovel. Bringing it up at The Buttered Ram, Tombo Greenhand snorts while setting down a flagon. "They's few in Dirt City that cares aught but their own hide or the hide of their House, you can be sure of that, sir. Why, the wild tribes wander within a mile or two of Dirt City and no one is there to tell them 'boo'. That's Izen for you."
Hmerrin is not a fan of rainy, muddy Dirt City. Like a cat wishing for a sunny day if only the door is opened enough times, the teen opens... and then tromps back upstairs to the woodshop where he's been methodically tearing apart and rebuilding every chair in the building.
Lornak takes advantage of the slow time to catch up on some personal work. . He studies the potions he picked up from the Tower of Desolation, and is able to learn how to make the Giant Wasp poison (all he needs are some giant wasp poison sacs). The potion of Tongues, however, is quite out of his league: and, he fears, out of anyone's reach without magic. . He spends quite a bit of quality time with Ethani. . And he finds the time to design and add tattoos to his body, commemorating the extraordinary events that he has experienced in past months . He also finds the time to reach out to his Twilight Ranger contacts and source more Drow Poison. . Lornak's remaining time is spent eating, drinking, and talking with his Tide companions at The Buttering Ram.
Ethani and Gaffer join together working at the Temple with Brother Elthorn. The acolyte hasn't changed much, still underappreciated. Still, there hasn't been anymore undead incursions since the Tide fixed that little problem! Ethani invites Wilford to join the work, excited about the rogue/cleric's new journey.
Asteria shows off her flashy new stuff. The weather doesn't have a chance to dampen HER spirits! She stays indoors at bars and pubs around the city singing at the top of her lungs, hoping to kindle the spirits of the downtrodden. At night? she cuddles up to the pup, Perri, who licks her face constantly.
Toston keeps his humor through the rainy season, joking that for three months out of the year, it should be called Mud City!
Ethani brings up the possibility of hiring a young orphan to care for Perry and maybe even Vin. "What do you think?"
...........
The constant rains end in a month, but showers and occasional storm keep things wet enough that Dirt City buckles down for the winter. The cold arrives with icy winds racing across the plains of Izen. Dirt City seldom gets snow, and if so, no more than a frosting that is gone by mid-day. Still, like the rainy season, the cold tends to slow things down; especially from outside. It is the bold or foolhardy or desperate that take armored caravans or sleek ship out in weather like this. Time for companions, plots, and un-solved loose ends...
Monthly, the three tenants pay their rent, and the Tide pays the Wolves. Daily, the heroes gather in The Buttered Ram if they care for company, or in their common room upstairs in Shale House for more private conversation. There are friends, associates, and tenants who all look up to the Tide when at the Tavern and would gladly tell anything they know, if only asked.
It is nearly at Yule and the year's turning where all the heroes are sitting in their upstairs and Gaffer once again finds the un-deciphered map. The treasure map? The adventure map? Maybe something that the heroes can do besides whine/tease/ignore the six months of lousy weather...
Wilford Grimly (HP:47/47; AC: 19; Touch: 12; Flat: 16; CMD: 18) d20+12=24 ; Tuesday March 5th, 2019 3:54:37 PM
Wil is happy to join Ethani and he does. He watches and explores the Temple. Thinking about his new role of protecting his friends. After, he decides to poll the customers in Tombo's. "How can the Tide help you out." (Diplomacy: 24)
Lornak (Frank S.) HP: 79/79 AC: 23(T:13/FF:10) CMD:15(16) d20+14=19 ; d20+8=22 ; Tuesday March 5th, 2019 4:27:24 PM
Lornak stands from the chair belonging to the Common Room table and scrutinizes the Map. He does his best to figure out what the Unicorn Symbol on the back might represent. (Knowledge, Local d20=19)
He also studies the Runic lettering trying to decipher what they might say. (Linguistics d20=22)
He does not recognize the landmark iconography.(OOC cmon guys, I cant be the only one trying to decipher the map! Barring Toston's first attempt 2 weeks ago)
Gaffer (Courtney HP: 78/78 AC:21(T:16/FF:15) CMD:20 WS 3/3 LL 8/8) d20+13=20 ; Tuesday March 5th, 2019 6:23:17 PM
Not letting himself be disheartened by the lack of interest beyond the city walls, Gaffer throws himself with eagerness into help at the temple. Still highly curious what could be understood from studying the bloodweed, he makes a mental note to contact his Circle regarding it at some point.
The rain is a pleasant change and he enjoys the gentle routine of a month spent at an easy pace, working hard during the day, eating and drinking with the Tide in the evenings.
At the table, Gaffer rolls the map out across the surface, "Let's put our minds together and figure this out, or decide who to ask if we can't." He thinks back to what, if anything, he knows that might link Unicorns with the surroundings of dirt city. (Nature: 20)
Toston Lotor(Hugh Crosmun) [HP: 59/59; AC:22/20/18 - CMD 24 Tuesday March 5th, 2019 8:07:08 PM
Toston says, "I thought I asked around about that treasure map at the WLA months ago and started looking through things in the library...could of sworn I meant to keep researching it but I guess when things change like the weather maybe somethings get lost in the shuffle."
Shepherd Ethani (Nellie, AC 20, HP 47/47, CMB 4, CMD 17) d20+16=20 ; Tuesday March 5th, 2019 9:34:07 PM
Ethani smiles at Gaffer and Wil's gentle ministering to the poor of Dirt City. Her family was truly compassionate and loving.
Over dinner one evening, Ethani broached a topic with Gaffer. "Have you ever thought of ministering to the animals IN Dirt City? I know its not the same, but there are plenty of animals that need tending to here. Perri was lucky and found a new home, but there are many starving animals here. Just a thought."
Mulling over the map with the others, Ethani puts in her 2 coppers. Know Religion=20
Hmerrin(HP 83/83 AC:25 T:15 FF:21 CMD:25) d20+1=20 ; d20+6=17 ; d20+6=10 ; Tuesday March 5th, 2019 9:51:07 PM
First water and then ice.
At first content to let Lornak and the smart people deal with the map, the teen finally takes a gander out of sheer boredom.
Int check 20 Know local 17 Know Engineering 10
Finally, he sets down to draw a copy of some of the symbols driving Lornak nuts, walks down to the Buttered Rum, drops it in front of some of the greybeards there, and asks "ever seen anything like this before?"
Map Clues (co-DM SteveK) Wednesday March 6th, 2019 4:18:29 PM
Icy weather gives way only to chill: it is nearly Spring. And, with Spring, the heroes realize it has been a year since the CMTC was formed. Happy Anniversary! (everyone add one year to PC age.) .....
Wil is happy to join Ethani and Gaffer at the Temple. In the evenings, he polls the customers at Tombo's place, The Buttering Ram. The responses are funny (well, you can make me Prince!), to nostalgic (can ya bring the sun back), and sometimes some mumbled (my problems, my solutions). Mostly, the patrons and your tenants in Shale House think that this is just about the best their lives have been in, like, forever. The dwarf Mazea pretty much sums it up. "I only wish there was something we can help you Tide heroes with."
Lornak scrutinizes the Map. Locally, Lornak knows there are a couple ships that frequent Dirt City that are 'something Unicorn', there is a bar near the Darts called 'Unicorn something', and there is a tale about a nomad group of orcs in Izen that ride unicorns. The topography isn't special enough to ring a bell, and the runes dont seem to be simple enough for Lornak to figure out.
Gaffer throws himself with eagerness into help at the temple and enjoying the gentle routine of rain and cold. At the table, Gaffer rolls the map out across the surface. To the druid, the green on the map sorta looks like woods... and there are three woods within a week's travel of Dirt City: Blanc de Forest, Blackbird Forest, and Culverwood.
Toston considers what he learned about perusing the WLA library (Per Toston post 6Feb19 he only looked in the WLA library for the map, only asked patrons about Gold Eyes; and per DM post 7Feb19, he had "narrowed his search to only a few hundred scrolls and tombs to check with regards to the map. It will take time.") After six months of carefully checking what was available at the clandestine WLA outpost, Toston finds a couple reports of 'good orcs riding unicorns'; one along the great trade road between New Elennia and Alisidur, and one in the forest near the Tears of the Wood. . The map can be deciphered to show a line that is probably a road running parellel to a squiggly green line that is probably a forest. And Toston knows there are many places in the Wold with roads near a forest.
Ethani smiles at Gaffer and Wil's gentle ministering to the poor of Dirt City, and asks the druid if he "ever thought of ministering to the animals IN Dirt City?" Ethani knows that Unicorns are special to the Fey, which may mean Eberyon or Ma'ab is involved.
Hmerrin doesn't like rain or ice. Out of sheer boredom, the teen looks at the map. Jotting a couple runes down, he goes to the relative safety of The Buttering Ram and asks the oldest person he sees. "Ayah. I cain't read it, but mebbe the Sage's Guild can." Hmerrin immediately knows what the graybeard is talking about: there is a Branch Library of the Sages Guild; not really much more that a crafter's shop in Wardd's Ward. What Hmerrin (and Lornak) knows is that for a price, the Sage can find nearly any information in a short amount of time...
Lornak (Frank S.) HP: 79/79 AC: 23(T:13/FF:10) CMD:15(16) d20+6=23 ; Wednesday March 6th, 2019 4:48:04 PM
Lornak listens to the information that everyone brings to the table, literally and figuratively. After mulling over much of it he starts the conversation; "A nomad group of good Orcs, hrm." He says. "That tracks. The Orcs we received this very map from could be THE group from these tales, or an offshoot, perhaps." Lornak smiles jovially. "I do not remember them riding Unicorns though..."
"The Tide has been through Blackbird Forest on that trek to Acid City. We could drop in on Drex and have a rest and good meal at The Goblin;s Rest if we head that way at least."
As the rest of the group confer he steps away from the table and makes his way to the Alchemical Lab. He rolls up the sleeve of his rolling top desk and finds a new sheet of paper or velum. He grabs his ink quill and well and makes his way back to the table. He gets comfortable and replicates the runes with the meticulous precision of a Scribe. (Profession, Scribe d20=23) When finished, he shares his plan of action;
"What do you think, Kid?" He says with a raised eyebrow to Hmerrin. "Off to The Sages Guild?" He doesn't forget his coin as he leaves.
Shepherd Ethani (Nellie, AC 20, HP 47/47, CMB 4, CMD 17) Wednesday March 6th, 2019 9:31:08 PM
Ethani is excited about the prospect of interacting with the kind orcs again. She visibly shudders at the thought of going anyway near Aisildur. She decides to tag along with Lornak on his fact finding mission.
Hmerrin(HP 83/83 AC:25 T:15 FF:21 CMD:25) Wednesday March 6th, 2019 9:50:11 PM
"Sounds like a plan," Hmerrin agrees with Lornak.
"Plus it gets me outta this house."
The lad gathers his gear, including his own bag of gold, and accompanies Lornak to the Sage's Guild.
Toston Lotor(Hugh Crosmun) [HP: 59/59; AC:22/20/18 - CMD 24 Wednesday March 6th, 2019 10:02:43 PM
Toston says, "It sure would be interesting to see an orc riding a unicorn. That certainly isn't something one sees everyday. Of course if one did spot an orc on unicorn back would anyone ever believe them?"
Asteria Amarante [HP: 93/93; AC: 24; Touch: 12; Flat: 20; CMD: 20] Wednesday March 6th, 2019 10:35:48 PM
Asteria looks excited at the proposition of seeing a unicorn. "D'ya think we'll see a real one? Or, do you think it's just a dumb statue or something symbolic?"
Gaffer (Courtney HP: 78/78 AC:21(T:16/FF:15) CMD:20 WS 3/3 LL 8/8) Thursday March 7th, 2019 4:39:59 PM
"I really hope we can meet real unicorns! Though even if it's something symbolic I'm sure there will be an interesting story behind it."
With nothing immediate on his plate, Gaffer accompanies the other's to the meet the Sages. He would also like to ask them of there is a way to get a transportable supply of fresh berries for a goodberry spell as an interesting alternative to rations on the road.
Gaffer (Courtney HP: 78/78 AC:21(T:16/FF:15) CMD:20 WS 3/3 LL 8/8) Thursday March 7th, 2019 4:39:59 PM
"I really hope we can meet real unicorns! Though even if it's something symbolic I'm sure there will be an interesting story behind it."
With nothing immediate on his plate, Gaffer accompanies the other's to the meet the Sages. He would also like to ask them of there is a way to get a transportable supply of fresh berries for a goodberry spell as an interesting alternative to rations on the road.
Wilford Grimly (HP:47/47; AC: 19; Touch: 12; Flat: 16; CMD: 18) Thursday March 7th, 2019 4:46:19 PM
"New question, intelligent creatures like unicorns. Would they even except a rider? I would like to think they wouldn't. Do we know what we are doing next?"
Wilford Grimly (HP:47/47; AC: 19; Touch: 12; Flat: 16; CMD: 18) Thursday March 7th, 2019 4:46:19 PM
"New question, intelligent creatures like unicorns. Would they even except a rider? I would like to think they wouldn't. Do we know what we are doing next?"
Map Clues (co-DM SteveK) Thursday March 7th, 2019 5:02:43 PM
Toston, Asteria, and Wilford discuss the interesting possibilities of unicorn-riding-orcs, and Wilford announces dinner is special today, rabbit stew! With a course of action chosen, other possibilities or actions seem to take a back seat. Wilford does bring up the question if they know what they are going to do next.
Lornak, Ethani, Gaffer, and Hmerrin group together to see the Sage in Wardd’s Ward. The City Above is always a dangerous place, so four well-armed and alert people are safer than one alone. Whether it is this fact, that some are beginning to recognize the Tide, or good luck, we don’t know, but it is known that the three are unmolested from Shale House to a modest, paint-peeling two-story with a sign over the front shop door:
Sage’s Guild Dirt City Branch Library
Entering the building, it is fairly clean, fairly neat affair of a table and chairs on one side of a counter, and shelves and pigeonholes half full of books and scrolls on the other. A small bell rings when the door opens, and a young, cheerful voice calls from the back: “be right there, my scholars!”
It turns out the proprietor, Jolla Fairfellow, is a blonde-haired halfling with spectacles. He is happy to see them, “I don’t get many scholars here in Dirt City”, before launching into a history of Dirt City. Once the team explains what they want, Jolla explains that he doesn’t “know the Runes, because I am a Librarian, not a Hunter or Teacher...” and then he starts explaining about the Sages Guild".
Back at Shale House, Toston unrolls his own successes from his 6-month research at WLA; sets of maps that were found and subsequently copied:
Lornak (Frank S.) HP: 79/79 AC: 23(T:13/FF:10) CMD:15(16) Thursday March 7th, 2019 7:38:55 PM
"Well met Jolla Fairfellow, I am Lornak." Lornak says as he is addressed by the proprietor. "A Sage I am not..." he continues after a bow of his head. "...but a kindred spirit of a sort. Fore I admire education and knowledge." Lornak produces the page of runes; "A scribe by profession and alchemist as a hobby, I know a great many things about the flora and fauna and animals of the Wold."
Lornak listens intently when Jolla explains about the Sages Guild. He realizes its aims are very much in line with his own. He has an interest in learning more about potential membership, but not this day. I doubt I have what they are looking for in a member anyhow.
Shepherd Ethani (Nellie, AC 20, HP 47/47, CMB 4, CMD 17) Thursday March 7th, 2019 10:11:58 PM
Ethani smiles and introduces herself to Mr. Fairfellow. "Though I am no Sage, it is a pleasure to meet such an educated man." She inquires fortune about the rune. "What would this symbol means to you Mr. Fairfellow?"
Hmerrin(HP 83/83 AC:25 T:15 FF:21 CMD:25) Thursday March 7th, 2019 10:23:58 PM
Hmerrin marches purposefully through the streets of the City Above, having learned early on here to do so with axes plainly visible and a "Don't mess with me" look on his face at all times.
Arriving at the Sage's Guild, the lad is immediately struck with the knowledge that this is not his kind of place.
He shifts into "I'm just the bodyguard" persona, and listens to what Lornak, Ethani, and Gaffer can pull out of the halfling.
Toston Lotor(Hugh Crosmun) [HP: 59/59; AC:22/20/18 - CMD 24 Friday March 8th, 2019 12:28:16 AM
Toston starts perusing the maps he discovered only to realize they seem to be not what he expected. He might have grabbed the wrong maps
(OOC: The links are returning 404 not found...are you sure the URL is correct?)
Gaffer (Courtney HP: 78/78 AC:21(T:16/FF:15) CMD:20 WS 3/3 LL 8/8) Friday March 8th, 2019 8:26:29 AM
"Charmed, Mr. Fairfellow, I go by Gaffer myself." He leans in close to listen as Fairfellow introduces the Sages Guild and looks on excitedly as he explains what their map might show.
Runes (co-DM SteveK) Friday March 8th, 2019 8:30:56 PM
OOC: My apologies, everyone. I'm still trying to figure out why the links aren't working. So, until then... all the links of the previous post are from the Woldipedia: Descriptions of Dirt City and the Sages Guild Maps for New Elennia, Izen, Emerald Kingdom, and Culverwood .......
Lornak, Ethani, Gaffer, and Hmerrin introduce themselves to Jolla... Well, Hmerrin pretends to be a sell sword, but at least Jolla knows who is there and what they want. The jovial halfling looks at the copied runes and shakes his head. "I don't recognize these runes, but don't despair! I can get you a translation for, let's see, 200gp." The usual haggling goes on and the Tide can get Jolla down to 100gp but he won't budge from that number. "The Sages Guild has to keep our magic portals you know. You give me the gold and the runes and I'll have a translation for you by tomorrow at this same time." If anyone shows the slightest interest, Jolla can talk for hours about the Sages Guild, Dirt City, and the history of the Houses, and he will!
Toston realizes the cleaning staff mis-placed his copies he got from the WLA, but now can look at them and share with the others at Shale House. Asteria and Wilford are silent, but Wilford's question still hangs in the air... 'so what's the plan?'
Wilford Grimly (HP:47/47; AC: 19; Touch: 12; Flat: 16; CMD: 18) Saturday March 9th, 2019 10:06:08 AM
"Big changes are coming," says a distant voice within Wil's noisy head. Wil turns and grumbles. "As much as I enjoy...," he begins sarcastically, "listening to all the noise. Every time one of you talks I get this pain in my heard. Igor, I assume?" "Big changes are coming, William." "William, who's William. Are you talking to me?" With that the voice went quiet for a long stretch than a chuckle. "Yah, you get me name write first, before you talk to me." "Anyways," Will addresses the group. "So I have lost my shadow amulet. I believe Gargul may have removed it when we met or I dropped it but that's unlikely. I have accepted my role as protector. The shadows have not left completely. I have put together a new spell list this morning.." (OOC: I have not yet done that but RP-wise Wil has..) "Should we sit down and work out a defensive spell strategy?" "... And, I vote we head back outside the city to find these orcs."
Hmerrin(HP 83/83 AC:25 T:15 FF:21 CMD:25) Sunday March 10th, 2019 11:49:22 AM
Hmerrin does not have the slightest interest in talking for hours about the Sages Guild, Dirt City, and the history of the Houses.
He is interested in a translation of the runes, and will assist in paying Jolla's fee to figure it out.
After that, well, guess its back to Shale House.
Lornak (Frank S.) HP: 79/79 AC: 23(T:13/FF:10) CMD:15(16) Sunday March 10th, 2019 8:58:50 PM
Lornak fronts the money for the information that Jolla provides; "My thanks." He says. "One of us will retrieve what you find on the morrow."
As Lornak makes his way through the crowds of Dirt City, his awareness takes in the rhythms and cycles of the city life. Will life truly change here after this new beginning? He takes Ethani's hand into his and squeezes tightly. He gets lost in her eyes, her warmth, her radiance. He whispers into her ear and waits for her reaction.
He notices also the love he feels for his comrades and gives them smiles as he blackguards on the way back to Shale House and it makes the next decision he has to make even harder.
He spends time with the members of The Tide in much the same manner that he has for the past 6 months but when he turns in for the night he lingers before he turns. His eyes start to tear a bit but the memory of what he sees will stay with him forever.
Lornak does not sleep during the night, he instead stays up at his desk penning in the candlelight. Before dawn breaks he heads out and prepares a litter. He gathers up his things in his room and his alchemical lab, and wakes Ethani gently. He puts Vin upon his arm as he carries her into the crisp morning air. He ties up the few remaining supplies.
When Ethani comes out to meet him, he takes her hand into his and pulls her close. He is very emotional as he looks Shale House up and down. "I hope they will understand." He says as he guides her onto the platform and grabs the reigns; "Where to my love?"
Lornak guides the horses into the rising sun.
On the table in the Common Room is a letter address: My Friends.
(OOCI thank you all very deeply for the opportunity to become part of this community. If you have not figured out, I have made the decision to leave the Wold. It is with a heavy heart that I say good-bye but real life has to take precedent over this fantastic place. There were definite highlights that I will never forget being a part of and I will miss my fellow players immensely. All the best to everyone.
-jf)
Asteria Amarante [HP: 93/93; AC: 24; Touch: 12; Flat: 20; CMD: 20] Sunday March 10th, 2019 9:24:58 PM
That night, Asteria wakes up to Perri stirring from a disturbance in the house. The moment she goes to see what is going on and sees Lornak and Ethani stealthily leaving the house, she knows what is going on. She grabs the few items she has and packs in a hurry, grabbing Perri as she leaves. The barbarian bolts after her shield sister, panting as she eventually catches up. She catches her breath and grins at the two. "You didn't think you'd leave me and the pup behind, did you? We're coming, even if you say no, so you better get used to it."
As she walks along the two, she finally thinks about the consequences of her actions. A knot forms in her stomach at the thought of how her companions will feel when they see she's gone. She tries to justify it, knowing that she would never feel right allowing Ethani to leave without her. She tries not to think about it too long. "Where are we heading?"
((OOC: I regret to say it, but I am also leaving. I've loved every interaction I've had with you all, and I sincerely hope to see you more in the future. I've made this decision after a lot of thought and I hope you can forgive me. You've given me the best possible experience here in the Wold that anyone could ask for. Best of wishes, Genevieve
Shepherd Ethani (Nellie, AC 20, HP 47/47, CMB 4, CMD 17) Sunday March 10th, 2019 10:26:08 PM
Waking up to Lornak's beautiful face steels the Healer for what she was about to do. It feels wrong to just abandon her family the Tide. To abandon the lousy and hurt people of Dirt City. But her encounter with Gargul had taught her that adventuring was far too dangerous a career for her.
Packing a few things, she allows herself to be excited about the adventure to come. "I've always wanted to visit the Emerald Kingdom. Why don't we start there?" she murmurs to Lornak.
When Asteria arrives, Ethani lets out a chuckle. "I would not dream of leaving you and Perri behind. You're going to love our next location. Outs called the Emerald Kingdom, and it's in a forest with lots of squirrels for Perri to chase, and lots of animals for you to hunt. There's a river for me to teach you to swim. It will be perfect."
OOC: Let me echo what Frank and Genevieve have said. It is truly a pleasure playing with you guys and I will miss you and the Wold. Try not to burn down Dirt City while I'm gone. ;) Nellie
Toston Lotor(Hugh Crosmun) [HP: 59/59; AC:22/20/18 - CMD 24 Sunday March 10th, 2019 11:15:54 PM
Toston wakes up to see almost half of their little group have left the building. He says, "I hope they find happiness wherever their adventures take them. I'm sad to see them go. I mean we've always been an eclectic ragtag sort but it seemed like we were finally starting to gel as a team. I remember Ashley and Broom and that gnome bard fellow and the elf with the curve blade and Dusan and now Ethani, Asteria and Lornak too. I mean we've endured changes to our little band of heroes but I think this is the first time so many have split from the group all at once. I only hope we five are enough for whatever challenges lie ahead. Wil better up your healing game as you are our only Cleric once again."
Tune Map and Farewells (co-DM SteveK) Monday March 11th, 2019 9:16:21 AM
Wilford has been plagued with internal voices, but recently there have been changes: it’s a new voice, and the old ones… well, they may not be gone, but they aren’t speaking to him since his meeting with Gargul. Big changes? That was a given. And with the time to actually plan instead of react, Wilford thinks it’s time to work out a defensive spell strategy. And a vote. Let’s find these orcs!
Hmerrin is bored and quickly stops listening to the long-winded Jolla. He is interested in Runes, payin for a translation, and wandering back to Shale House.
Lornak fronts the money for the Rune translations, a gift for the Tide. Nostalgia flows, but not enough to execute a plan a long time in the making. He packs and with Vin on his shoulder and Ethani at his side, they leave a note for their fellow heroes to find in the morning. Sunrise finds them, shining on their right, with the smoke of morning cook fires the only thing visible from Dirt City. Off to a new chapter. (ooc: Farewell, Lornak, and may you have safe trails ahead!)
Asteria is woken by Perri, sees Lornak and Ethani leaving. The impulsive barbarian is determined that no one leaves her: she is the one who does the travelling! Perri is excited about the change of routine, and capers around the tall woman as she catches up with her shield sister. Although a knot forms in her stomach about the companions left, Asteria was never about the past, only the present. “Where are we off to?” (ooc: Farewell, Asteria, and may you achieve success in all opportunities!)
Ethani also has mixed feelings, abandoning the Tide and Dirt City? No, not abandoning, but realizing there is a different current meant for her to swim. With Lornak and Asteria (and Vin and Perri!), the group heads east, and then north along the main trails over Izen to Culverwood and the Emerald Kingdom. (ooc: Farewell, Ethani, and may you have gentle waves and warm seas!)
Toston wakes up to see almost half of their little group have left the building. It makes him reminisce about all the heroes that have come and gone with the CMTC and the Tide. It then turns his mind to practical matters: Wil is the only Cleric once again!
…….
True to his word, Jolla has a translation for the Runes the very next day that Hmerrin and Gaffer return to the Sages Guild Branch Library. “It doesn’t make much sense all together, so they, the main Sages Guild, that is, provided the Rune and translation side-by-side. I hope this helps. Now, have I told you about the time in Dirt City during the Rise of Eberyon? We didn’t know it at the time, but giant pumpkins, as big as houses, grew in the Full Moon Market!...” And he is off, talking at great length about the events of the past and a band of heroes that saved the day. Jolla doesn’t even notice if Hmerrin and Gaffer leave the shop!
Back at Shale House, it doesn’t take very long for Toston, Gaffer, Hmerrin, and Wilford to align the translation with the runes on the Unicorn Map . Toston’s map copies come in handy now, because cross-referencing the Izen, Culverwood, and Emerald Kingdom maps together with the Unicorn Map, the heroes can see the great trade road is between the Tears of the Wood and Fort Silence. And there is a large bight of woods in between the two at the same location! It seems a foregone conclusion that the Tide is going to go after this treasure!
The heroes seem to have two decisions to make.
The first is what preparations are they going to do to include new battle and spell preparation strategies and tactics.
The second is how are they going to travel to the location indicated by the map? There are three obvious routes: a) up the road from Dirt City to the trade road, b) by river barge up the Peaseblossom River, or c) Overland straight north, skirting Mount Bone.
Gaffer (Courtney HP: 78/78 AC:21(T:16/FF:15) CMD:20 WS 3/3 LL 8/8) Monday March 11th, 2019 10:22:58 AM
Reading through the note Gaffer is struck by surprise. "I knew they were feeling the stress of events but I didn't think... May luck be with them, I hope we'll see them again one day." Thinking of their much smaller party he adds, "And that we all make it until then." Feeling rather glum as he receives the map, he does his best to reignite his own enthusiasm with the prospects of adventure.
"Could we travel by barge? That sounds so nice, I could swim some of the way too..." "I think I should keep a few healing spells handy too" he adds to Wil
Wilford Grimly (HP:47/47; AC: 19; Touch: 12; Flat: 16; CMD: 18) Monday March 11th, 2019 12:48:13 PM
"I agree," Wil says to Toston and Gaffer. "I would like to help buffer some of the damage the team takes up front then heal toward the end of the fight. I am going to miss my shadow amulet.. ugh.. I have some smoke sticks. I plan to toss these to help and conserve some spells." "I will follow where the majority decide to go. I have no issue with the barge."
Hmerrin(HP 83/83 AC:25 T:15 FF:21 CMD:25) Monday March 11th, 2019 7:37:31 PM
Hmerrin comes down in the morning, and glances at the long faces.
"What'd I miss?" he inquires.
Once informed of the departure of Lornak, Asteria, and Ethani, he sighs. "Well, that sure makes a change, don't it?"
But, the day is still upon them, and so Hmerrin accompanies Gaffer to get the map.
Upon their return, he ponders the possibilities. "Overland makes no sense," he opines. "It'll take longer, and who knows what we'll run into on the way. I'm for the barge up the river."
As for tactics and strategy....well.. "We'll need to stay closer together, I think. There's not enough of us to rescue someone, probably me, who's cut off. Letting the fight come to us may be our best option."
Toston Lotor(Hugh Crosmun) [HP: 59/59; AC:22/20/18 - CMD 24 Tuesday March 12th, 2019 12:07:37 AM
Toston says, "Well I used to be a sailor so I might actually be able to help navigate the barge if we want. I mean I don't know if we were planning to just buy or rent one or if we were going to try to book passage on one with a crew but I could help maybe? I mean there is a difference between the sea and a river but technically sailing is sailing."
In response to the strategy question, "Well both Gaffer and I currently possess burning sphere. I mean I just learned it. I also now know the grease spell. Might it make sense to try to tactically control the battlefield with our reduced number? Gaffer and I could try to corral our enemies with things like burning sphere, grease and that druid spell Gaffer has that can make undergrowth all tangly. We could then put them our enemies in positions where the least hazardous path opens them up to things like Hmerrin's attacks or one of my breathe weapons to the face?"
Travel Plans (co-DM SteveK) Tuesday March 12th, 2019 8:32:27 AM
The departure of Lornak, Ethani, and Asteria catches the remaining Tide by surprise, though each of the heroes make mention that there were indications for a while. Still, looking at events in the past is often more clear than while the events are going on, and Gaffer, Wilford, Hmerrin, and Toston all give spoken wishes of luck and bounty to their recently departed companions.
Planning for following the Unicorn Map doesn’t stop, and the heroes focus turns from strategic to tactical considerations.
The immediate decision on how to get to that bight in the Culverwood is unanimous: they will take a river barge! It is fairly common knowledge that [Know Local DC 5] Highlight to display spoiler: { the Dirt City docks are 2/3 for coastal and ocean-going ships and 1/3 shallow, flat-bottomed river craft for going up to the Emerald Kingdom.} To this narrator’s knowledge, the Tide have never used or explored the river-side docks area before, so Toston’s speculation on what is the availability to buy, rent, or even book passage remains that: speculation. Well, at least until the heroes take action to turn assumptions into facts!
The heroes, realizing they have less margin for error, also make tactical battle plans; using spells to manage an open battlefield and adjusting who has healing for the inevitable wounds. Even Hmerrin admits that he can’t run off to attack the first thing anymore; maybe the lad is maturing!
As the heroes pack up, a thought meanders through their minds: who takes care of Shale House when they are not in town?
Orisons: Detect Magic x1, Resistance: x2 Light: 1 Granted Powers D: Resistant Touch - D: Touch of Good - Lv1: Protection from Evil/Chaos..etc, Entropic Shield, Shield of Faith - D: Sanctuary Lv2: Spiritual Weapon, Resist Energy, Consecrate, D: Shield Another (if needed - Cure moderate Wounds) Lv3: Magic Vestment, Magic Circle against... - D: Protection from Energy Lv4: Holy Smite, Summon Monster IV - Domain: Dispel Evil Lv5: -- Channel energy 3d6
Wilford Grimly (HP:47/47; AC: 19; Touch: 12; Flat: 16; CMD: 18) Tuesday March 12th, 2019 3:16:30 PM
Wil stops mid sentence, then starts... "I'm ready to go.." He packs up his bag with smoke sticks, oil and tindersticks. "Let's go sailing." (OOC: sorry, I cut off my post. Trying to get used to non-DM privileges...lol)
Hmerrin(HP 83/83 AC:25 T:15 FF:21 CMD:25) d20+6=12 ; Tuesday March 12th, 2019 7:21:32 PM
[Know Local 12]
Hmerrin nods at Wil's request. "Yeah, Lornak hired that Cinzi fellow to be a night guard for the whole building. I'll let Tombo and the others know we'll be out for a bit, so they can keep an ear open for anything banging around up here."
In the morning, the young man is geared up for the journey.
He leads the group to the docks. But, then pretty much waits, hoping Gaffer or Toston will take the lead with the whole "find a boat and haggle with the pilot" thing.
"Should we pick up a wand for light runes before we go?" Gaffer asks the group while packing his things, "Is there anything we'd need now it is just us?"
After packing his things he heads to the docks with the others, hoping to clarify the cost and timing of their travel.
Toston says I pretty much stayed to the coastal side of the docks when I crewed with Paul Fisher. I mean you see the river side docks but I mean if you don't have a reason to go upriver why visit.
Toston eyes the ships and crew member on the riverside dock looking for a boat that seems like it is well cared for and takes passengers. (Perception: 28; Profession[sailor]: 25)
When he finds a vessel and crew that matches his criteria he approaches and asks, "You take passengers to the Culverwood? If so how much a head?"
An Unexpected Arrival (co-DM SteveK) Wednesday March 13th, 2019 9:27:42 AM
Wilford suggests Tombo could watch Shale House, and informs the team he is ready for some sailing.
Hmerrin points out that Lornak hired Cinzi to be a night guard for all of Shale House, and a word with Tombo and the others that the Tide will be out for a bit should work so they can keep an ear open for any noise on the second or third floors. In the morning, he is also ready and allows Toston to take the lead to find floating transportation.
Gaffer suggests a CLW Wand as a ‘just in case’. It just so happens that a cleric of Domi is passing through The Buttering Ram that morning for breakfast, and is willing to part with a fully charged wand for the standard price. (ooc: No need to wait for Catacombs for that purchase). In no time, the druid is packed and ready.
Toston has plenty of dock-experience, but had no need to visit the riverside docks. Still, a sailor is a sailor, and he should be able to set good eyes on a worthy vessel for the right price. ……..
The Tide rolls down the stairs, stops in at Tombo’s for a word and breakfast. Mazea and Sunny are both there as well: they seem to have made a habit of stopping in for tea with Tombo before opening their shops, so the Tide gets a three-for-one deal of telling them they will be out for some days or even weeks.
The group is all ready to move out to the river-side docks when there is a commotion at the door of The Buttering Ram. “Is this the place?” “Those people at Marsh House said the Tide lives at Shale House now.” “Says The Buttering Ram.” “No, it is Ironthane Leathers.” “But over here is Sunny Sewing” “Where is this Shale House?” “This really IS a dirty city!” “Thanks for making me a part of it!” (laughter from many voices) “Orhana, Alni, stay with the wagons. Lorissa, you and your team keep them company, I’ll find out what’s what.” A chorus of voices respond “Not without us!”
The door to Tombo’s bangs open and a troop of gnomes floods the establishment! An average-looking female gnome with blue skin and cotton candy colored hair (and a raven perched in the hair like a nest) stalks up to Toston and, with a mischievous grin, puts her hands on her hips. “Well, Toston Lotor! If it isn’t my future husband looking like he is ready to run away again!”
Six of the other gnomes in the tavern break up in laughter. There are three more wearing padded armor and carrying light hammers that scan the room, guard the door, and do not join in.
Wilford Grimly (HP:47/47; AC: 19; Touch: 12; Flat: 16; CMD: 18) d20+12=22 ; d20+12=28 ; Wednesday March 13th, 2019 2:34:48 PM
Casting Sanctuary upon Toston as stealthily as he can from behind. "What's going on guys?" Wil says boldly, stepping from behind Toston. "What can we help you with? You can't be looking for a fight, but I'm getting a strong feeling you may be starting one shoot.. that can't be." "Toston, you and Raven Poe friends?"
(Diplomacy: 22)
Orisons: Detect Magic x1, Resistance: x2 Light: 1 Granted Powers D: Resistant Touch - D: Touch of Good - Lv1: Protection from Evil/Chaos..etc, Entropic Shield, Shield of Faith - D: Sanctuary Lv2: Spiritual Weapon, Resist Energy, Consecrate, D: Shield Another (if needed - Cure moderate Wounds) Lv3: Magic Vestment, Magic Circle against... - D: Protection from Energy Lv4: Holy Smite, Summon Monster IV - Domain: Dispel Evil Lv5: -- Channel energy 3d6
Hmerrin(HP 83/83 AC:25 T:15 FF:21 CMD:25) Wednesday March 13th, 2019 6:19:31 PM
"Huh," Hmerrin mutters. "A literal wagon full of gnomes."
The young human gives the three guarding the door a slight nod.
Then he wordlessly sloughs off his backpack, and waits to see what happens next.
Toston Lotor(Hugh Crosmun) [HP: 67/67; AC:23/20/19 - CMD 26 Wednesday March 13th, 2019 9:28:36 PM
Toston looks at the gnome woman his mouth agape and replies, "Excuse me, miss.... but you seem to have me at a disadvantage."
"As to me being your future husband well you certainly seem presumptuous and what exactly do you mean by run away again? This is the first I've ever heard or seen of you, so I have to ask have you confused me with some other Toston Lotor perhaps? You do certainly seem to have a large entourage though. I confess I haven't seen this many gnomes in one place in a long time."
Gaffer (Courtney HP: 78/78 AC:21(T:16/FF:15) CMD:20 WS 3/3 LL 8/8) Thursday March 14th, 2019 4:12:57 AM
Gaffer shies away from the confusion, taking a seat at the counter and staying clear of the gaggle of gnomes, well as much as one can in the space available.
Is this how Gnome proposals usually go?
Well this is Awkward (co-DM SteveK) d20+8=24 ; 10d20=113 ; d20=16 ; d20=18 ; d20=19 ; d20=1 ; d20=6 ; d20=13 ; d20=4 ; d20=3 ; d20=2 ; d20=4 ; Thursday March 14th, 2019 8:06:53 AM
Wilford casts Sanctuary on Toston, trying to be stealthy. It’s really hard to be Silent and Still without the ability to cast those meta-magic feats, but the Rogue/Cleric can certainly try to Bluff at what he is doing… [DM Roll for Bluff: +24]. None of the gnomes seem to notice. Dirt City is a place for caution, and the young man tries to start a diplomatic conversation that addresses both the gnew gnomes and Toston. [DM: Diplomacy to influence a creature’s attitude requires a full minute of conversation before the skill check is effective. Which gnome (Diplomacy specifies ‘creature’; singular) is Wilford trying to shift?]
Hmerrin mutters. "A literal wagon full of gnomes." He acknowledges the three guarding the door, sloughs off his backpack, and waits to see what happens next. A quick, knowing assessment of their new equipment and standard stances tell the warrior that these three; while at least trained in combat, lack experience and are hardly a threat to the Tide.
Toston looks at the gnome woman his mouth agape. “This is the first I've ever heard or seen of you!”
Gaffer shies away from the confusion, taking a seat at the counter and staying clear of the gaggle of gnomes. Is this how Gnome proposals usually go? ……..
At Toston’s words, silence falls in the room like darkness after blowing out a candle. The six gnomes, once laughing and smiling as if sharing an inside joke, now all look pole-axed in equal expressions of surprise.
The three gnomes guarding at the door don’t move; only scanning the room. One returns Hmerrin’s assessment with a nod from one professional to another.
The blue-skinned gnome girl who confronted Toston keeps smiling and her eyes move as if she is trying to figure out the joke. Slowly, sloooowly, her expression and stance changes as she wilts upon herself. The raven, not having a stable platform, hops to the back of a nearby chair. “Rrawk! Bad joke! Bad joke!”
The raven’s comment seems to snap the young woman out of her shock. “Hush Quoth, this is no joke”, she says to the bird, then turns back to Toston. “They didn’t tell you, did they? Your parents. You don’t know.” She starts to reach out in comfort, then pulls back unsure.
“And you don’t remember me at all? We were younger then, but…” She shakes her cotton candy head. “I’m Nissa Quentina. Quentina? Our parents were in business together? You pushed me into a fountain at a picnic that one time in Circus Quarter when I was 26 (ooc: 10 in human years) because I laughed at you trying to keep your balance on the edge. Tell me you remember that, at least!” It doesn’t take a perceptive person to see that this Nissa is on the verge of tears.
Wilford Grimly (HP:47/47; AC: 19; Touch: 12; Flat: 16; CMD: 18) Thursday March 14th, 2019 12:40:25 PM
Wil doesn't aim the Diplomacy and any gnome in particular but wishes only to come across Diplomatic for his friend Toston. The spell is a precautionary measure that Wil hopes will be useful but it seems to be a family issue and Wil steps back and lets the two talk. He keeps an eye on the other gnomes.
Hmerrin(HP 83/83 AC:25 T:15 FF:21 CMD:25) Thursday March 14th, 2019 6:31:54 PM
Having sized up the competition, Hmerrin relaxes and drops into the nearest chair.
He raises a hand to attract Tombo's attention, elaborately mouthing the word "Coffee" when he's successful.
Resting his left elbow on the table, and propping his head up with his left hand, the young man settles down to see how this domestic drama is gonna play out.
Toston Lotor(Hugh Crosmun) [HP: 67/67; AC:23/20/19 - CMD 26 Thursday March 14th, 2019 9:26:04 PM
Toston says to Nissa, "I didn't realize that you were the girl at the Circus Quarter that one year. I didn't realize my parents had any partners inside of Plateau City while we were working the shadow caravan circuit. I mean we didn't even settle down at that small shop until I was nearly 40. For the most part we kept to the trade quarter when we were in town but that day, that day was different. My folks said it was okay for me to go to the picnic and so I did. I honestly hadn't thought much about that day in a long time but I can see I seem to have left quite the impression on you. Now what is this about my parents not telling me that we were to be betrothed? I've been in contact with them since I left to become a monk and came into my own with my heritage as it were so why would they not tell me anything about us?
He goes silent for a moment and then snaps his fingers, "Wait a minute, did you wear that Flower masque at the moonlight masquerade during the Adventurer's Festival the year I left? I mean if you were you never told me your name but we certainly danced a lot."
Gaffer (Courtney HP: 78/78 AC:21(T:16/FF:15) CMD:20 WS 3/3 LL 8/8) Friday March 15th, 2019 4:39:11 AM
Gaffer feels irksome listening in as Nissa becomes upset, and relieved again when Toston does recall her. It's like layers unfolding in a play.
He wonders how far Nissa travelled for this? Is it because of Toston or the agreement?
He stays uninvolved, sipping at his water, unsure how this will be resolved.
Temporary Reprieve and the River-docks (co-DM SteveK) Friday March 15th, 2019 10:05:20 AM
Wilford successfully comes across as the diplomat in the encounter, and steps back and lets the two talk. He keeps an eye on the other gnomes.
Hmerrin relaxes and drops into the nearest chair, gets some coffee and settles down to see how this domestic drama is gonna play out.
Gaffer feelings change as he watches the scene like layers unfolding in a play. Remaining uninvolved, he sips his water and watches.
Toston recalls the incident at the fountain, but not the alleged connection to Nissa, explaining his family didn’t stay in Plateau City often until he was older. Then a memory surfaces, and …
…….. Nissa brightens immediately and looks relieved “The Adventurer's Festival! Yes, I was wearing the Flower mask, and you wore one that looked like a Gold Dragon.” The young gnome lady takes another step back and really looks at Toston. “I don’t know why they didn’t tell you our parents arranged us to be betrothed. Maybe because you went to the monestary? And I don’t know why they didn’t tell me that you didn’t know.” Her brow furrows as she wryly states, “What a practical joke!”
Suddenly, Nissa straightens up and becomes all businesslike. “Well, you and your friends obviously have an adventure to go on, and after that you will be coming back, yes? OK. So I and my cousins will rent a place nearby to settle in and we can start getting to know each other again. And if we turn out NOT compatible, well, we’ll break the engagement. Won’t that be a joke on our parents!?”
Nissa (and her cousins) won’t hear of delaying ‘Toston And His Friends’ any longer; there will be time enough when he returns to settle things. In short order, the helpful, friendly, and very insistent gnomes have gotten packs back on the adventurers, out the door, and headed to the river-side docks. .......
The river docks are bustling in the late morning, a rising tide will give the flat-bottomed river boats a head start up the river towards the Emerald Kingdom, and captains are setting last-minute cargo in place. Toston’s sailing experience soon finds the “Catfish”, a well-maintained flatboat with a single lanteen sail and oarposts, ready to go with a captain, a half-elf named Jhared, willing to take on the Tide for free in exchange for defenses until they get to Khari, the Emerald City. Consulting Toston’s maps, the Tide can see that it is a day further north than the Trade Road which was their destination.
Wilford Grimly (HP:47/47; AC: 19; Touch: 12; Flat: 16; CMD: 18) d20+12=20 ; Friday March 15th, 2019 3:31:14 PM
"Hey, anyone hear of the Grim over the river of death? The lantern over the flat bottom boat makes me think of this story that my father used to tell of a Grim that would ferry the dead over a river. I don't recall the details.. names or anything... but my Grim days may now be behind me My mother has not spoken to me since I moved to Alemi so I imagine my father would not agree... anyways. Interesting ship." (Perception: 20)
Toston Lotor(Hugh Crosmun) [HP: 67/67; AC:23/20/19 - CMD 26 d20+3=21 ; d20+11=31 ; Friday March 15th, 2019 9:29:17 PM
To Nissa, Toston says, "Sounds like a plan. I can't help notice your talking raven. I don't suppose that makes him your familiar? You wouldn't happen to have a scroll of haste or fireball I could take with me on the trip?" =================================== Later when checking out the riverside docks, Toston says, "Well we can't beat free and this barge seems to be in really good shape."
To Jhared says, "Any chance I could stretch my sea legs while journeying with you guys and help with any sailor work that needs doing? I'll still help with defense should you need it but I was kind of hoping to also pitch in with other work if needed."
(Diplomacy: 21) (Profession [Sailor] : 31)
Hmerrin(HP 100/100 AC:26 T:15 FF:22 CMD:26) Saturday March 16th, 2019 9:16:20 AM
Hmerrin readily agrees to providing guard duty in exchange for a free trip, even if they do have to backtrack later.
"Walking for a day sure beats walking for more than a day," he notes, philosophically.
The young fighter spends the next several days humming "The Wedding March" nearly nonstop, before stopping at lunch one day, regarding Toston gravely, and declaring, "But, seriously Toston. You and this girl will need a completely sober conversation when you get back. And so, I've got to ask you, all joking aside......
Can I be the Best Man?"
Gaffer (Courtney HP: 78/78 AC:21(T:16/FF:15) CMD:20 WS 3/3 LL 8/8) Sunday March 17th, 2019 3:03:13 PM
Gaffer peers into the waters as he unsteadily moves onto the barge, taking a good few minutes to get adjusted to the swaying water. "That sounds lime a fair deal. Are you expecting much trouble?"
"How fast does this thing move?" He asks, looking to see how clean the water is.
Two Armored Strangers (co-DM SteveK) Monday March 18th, 2019 7:29:27 AM
Wilford makes a joking observation of the flatboat and Gargul mythology. Once aboard, he looks around and notes the sail, the oar-locks, oars stowed away, the open hold piled with goods covered by a tarpaulin, and two well-armed and armored people: one human, one dwarf: hurrying on the pier towards the "Catfish" from the direction of the main harbor.
Toston agrees with Nissa's plan, then asks for a magical scroll. The girl gets a twinkle in her eye and takes a step back. "That's a little forward for someone who didn't remember who I was an hour ago! As it is, yes, I'm a wizard, and I can not only scribe scrolls, but wands and wondrous items too. I think I can be a big help to you, but first I need to get my work room set up, and second... second we need to get to know each other better."
At the docks, Toston thinks they can't beat free for a barge in really good shape and a captain who will let him use his sailing skills to help. Jhared nods, "Free help is always welcome, but it's a flatboat, not a barge." Jhared sniffs.
Hmerrin readily agrees to providing guard duty in exchange for a free trip, even if they do have to backtrack later. He spends the rest of the trip teasing his gnome companion about wedding plans!
Gaffer takes his time getting used to being on a flatboat; it is unexpectedly stable! The river looks pretty dirty, but the sailors assure the druid its clean enough to drink outside the harbor. Jhared shrugs. "I'm always expecting trouble. That's why the Catfish is still alive. And we should make the Emerald City in five days." ........
The Catfish is ready, the tide is beginning to rise, and Captain Jhared has opened his mouth to give the initial orders to cast off when...
The two armored people are standing at the pier in front of Captain Jhared. What do they want?
Sarge (Kathy) Monday March 18th, 2019 12:59:44 PM
The dwarf woman standing on the pier is wearing full plate and carrying a shield with Domi's symbol prominently displayed. Her hair is in braids, equal parts gray and brown, and the lines on her face clearly show that she is no longer young. There is a full pack on her back and a warhammer hanging by her side.
"Hello!" she calls. "Sorry to bother you, but is there some kind of tide here?"
Wilford Grimly (HP:47/47; AC: 19; Touch: 12; Flat: 16; CMD: 18) Monday March 18th, 2019 1:24:45 PM
"It depends," Will shouts.. "on the time of day. Sometimes the tide is high and other times its low. I hear that with a single moon the tides are a little less extreme." "She's not talking about the water tides, you idiot." Wil says and then smiles. "Cicero, my old friend. I missed you.. really I didn't. Have you met the new guy? I forgot his name." Wil suddenly turns and continues a conversation with an invisible friend he forgets all about the two standing on the deck.
posted for Ryan (Delichado) Monday March 18th, 2019 4:43:31 PM
A tanned human man in shining plate stands next to the dwarf, the curve of a large double-bladed axe appearing prominently behind his back. He looks up at the captain and says in a voice loud enough to be heard over the noise of the dock,"Yes, we've heard that the Tide is going out."
Toston Lotor(Hugh Crosmun) [HP: 67/67; AC:23/20/19 - CMD 26 Monday March 18th, 2019 8:18:21 PM
When Nissa responds negatively to his request he just shrugs and says, "Can't fault a guy for trying can you? They'll be plenty of time for us to get to know each other better when we return."
Later when the 2 armored newcomers show up, Toston says, "Normally I appreciate a good pun, but today I have no patience for them. Mayhap it is Hmerrin bringing up my potential nuptials that has me in a sour mood. I honestly don't know if I will go through with the engagement. I mean Nissa seems like a nice enough girl but I do have to get to know her first. Anyway, I'll speak plainly yes we are the Tide and yes we are about to set off for adventurer. What pray tell would the 2 of you like?"
Hmerrin(HP 100/100 AC:26 T:15 FF:22 CMD:26) Monday March 18th, 2019 8:18:24 PM
Hmerrin walks up beside Wil.
Like Wil and the guy on the dock, Hmerrin is also tall, lanky, young human. He too is encased in platemail, and carries two axes - a battleaxe at his right hip, and a handaxe on his left.
"Don't mind him," he remarks, nodding at Wil. "He's got a lot of company in his head."
"Or him," nodding at the gnome, Toston. "'Cause he's just grouchy." He grins. "I hear some punk kid has been giving him a hard time."
Tilting back his helm, the lad brushes his flowing brown hair from his face, and regards the two strangers.
"Like he said, if you're looking for The Tide, with some capital T's, that would be us. Nice axe. So, what can we do you for?"
Gaffer (Courtney HP: 78/78 AC:21(T:16/FF:15) CMD:20 WS 3/3 LL 8/8) Tuesday March 19th, 2019 6:14:20 AM
"Hmmm, I'm looking forward to a swim" Gaffer mutters, teetering in the edge of the boat.
"Huh, what now?" He looks up, surprised by the pair waiting for them, before nodding at Hmerrin's easier greeting, "Anything we can help with?" He adds.
The Catfish Moves (DM SteveK) Tuesday March 19th, 2019 7:49:17 AM
Sarge, the sturdy dwarf veteran, politely calls to the sailors and well-armed adventurer-types on the flatboat. She notes the name of the craft is the Catfish. "Hello!" she calls. "Sorry to bother you, but is there some kind of tide here?"
Wilford, experience in Dirt City having taught him caution, returns the hail. "It depends," Will shouts, then starts talking of tides and moons and then talking to himself. (Know Nature, Know Religion, or Sailor Craft/Profession DC10 Highlight to display spoiler: { curiously enough, Wilford is correct; a glance confirms that both moons are in the sky. Though it is approaching noon and Thermo is blazing strongly overhead, Wardd, the bright moon, is edging over the eastern horizon looking like a drawn bow, and Kerracles half-full, is a dark spot on the western horizon. This WILL be a strong tide!}
Desdichado stands next to Sarge, looks up at the captain and says in a loud voice,"Yes, we've heard that the Tide is going out."
Toston shrugs philosophically at Nissa’s response, then hurries after his companions to find transportation upriver to the Trade Road. When the two armored newcomers show up, Toston is in an irritable mood. Cutting through what could be as farcical as a-play-within-a-play, he responds. “I'll speak plainly. Yes we are ‘The Tide’ and yes we are about to set off for adventurer. What would you like?"
Hmerrin provides excuses for Wil, Wil’s head-friends, and Toston. He also confirms that they are ‘The Tide’, with some capital T's, and asks what they want to the two armored Domi followers.
Gaffer contemplates swimming, then is caught by the conversation at the dock-edge. "Anything we can help with?" …….
Sarge and Desdichado seem to have confirmation that the dock urchin was well worth the copper piece to point them to these four; not the ‘tide’, but ‘The Tide’! Now, they seem to be friendly but also wary, comes a stray thought into their heads. And then another, now may be a good time for names and the purpose for the questions
In their varying ways, Wil, Toston, Hmerrin, and Gaffer all pretty much confirm they are ‘The Tide’ and want to know why they are being asked. After all, comes the thought, it’s in the middle of the day in a crowded area on the docks, it’s not the best time for an assault! Also, there are only two of them on the dock, and they look ready to travel, not fight.
Captain Jhared interrupts with a clearing of his throat. “That’s nice and all, but this is my vessel and I say who are passengers. The tide, lowercase ‘t’ (he says with an ironic twist of his mouth) isn’t gonna wait. You two can come aboard and help protect the Catfish on our trip or stay there. Your choice.” The half-elf shouts over his shoulder, “Shoooove…OFF!”
The sailors rush to obey in a well-organized manner; fore and aft hawsers are lifted, two long poles begin pushing the flatboat away from the pier. Sarge and Desdichado have only seconds to react in order to step onto the boat without having to jump!
Wilford Grimly (HP:47/47; AC: 19; Touch: 12; Flat: 16; CMD: 18) Tuesday March 19th, 2019 12:07:39 PM
"Ok, hold up.. is it Ivan or Igor? doesn't matter..." Wil says. "You all need to go away.. shoo." With that the voices became silent. Will stood for a moment, shocked that it worked. "Would you like to come aboard?" Wil then says with a bit of charm and a hand. "We can discuss the details while we sail."
Desdichado(Ryan Baker) [HP: 93/93; AC:20/10/20 - CMD 23 Tuesday March 19th, 2019 1:29:33 PM
Desdichado thinks to himself "Thank Domi! They were much easier to find than I expected."
"Well, you seem to be who we were sent to find by the chief priest back in Plateau City. You may call me Desdichado. Permission to come aboard?" He hesitates for just a moment, then takes a step forward and reaches a hand out to Sarge to come along.
Sarge (Kathy) Tuesday March 19th, 2019 5:48:29 PM
The dwarf woman sighs a little. "Great," she says. "Another boat. Domi does like to test a person, doesn't he?"
She steps onto the boat.
"It's like the kid says," she continues. "The high priest said that the tide in Dirt City was important. Nobody really knew what that meant, but he sent us along anyway."
"I'm Fyrda Deepforge," she adds. "But you don't have to remember that. Everybody calls me Sarge."
Hmerrin(HP 100/100 AC:26 T:15 FF:22 CMD:26) Tuesday March 19th, 2019 7:53:49 PM
Hmerrin glances over at Captain Jhared. "Guess they're coming, too," he observes.
The lad turns back to the pair. "Hokay. I'm Hmerrin. And you are Sarge and Desdi...Desdi...sorry, that's a mouthful. I'm going with Dez. You ok with Dez?"
Hmerrin waves off the last sentence, and starts over. "So the priest at Plateau City said to come find us, and we're important. I don't suppose topics such as 'Why?' or 'Then What?' happened to come up at all?"
The fighter steps forward quickly to avoid getting run over by a scurrying crewman, and then turns back and tilts his head questioningly at the duo.
Gaffer (Courtney HP: 78/78 AC:21(T:16/FF:15) CMD:20 WS 3/3 LL 8/8) Tuesday March 19th, 2019 8:04:08 PM
"Dez and Sarge, You definitely look the part, call me Gaffer."
Stepping forward to offer his hand to each of them before trying to lead the group towards somewhere less in the way to talk.
"Are you planning on travelling with us for long? I don't suspect we're going anywhere nice, just so you know what you're... stepping into."
Toston Lotor(Hugh Crosmun) [HP: 67/67; AC:23/20/19 - CMD 26 Tuesday March 19th, 2019 8:33:51 PM
"Desdichado, why don't you come to your senses? Stop sitting on fences and hop on aboard" Toston sings at the man
"Nice to meet you, Sarge." Toston says to the dwarf.
Toston is a tallish gnome with orange skin and green close cropped hair, wearing a monk's robe and carrying a handy haversack.
Polling Up The River (DM SteveK) Wednesday March 20th, 2019 6:59:49 AM
Desdichado and Sarge both decide to step on the flatboat as it moves away from the dock. They give their names and similar stories of why they are there.
The four members of The Tide give various well comes, Toston making a joke, And Wilford languidly assuring details could be worked out later. Gaffer is concerned that these two know what they are getting into; The Tide has seen many a scrape! And Hmerrin isn’t satisfied with vague portents from the Plateau City priest. Nothing more? ......
As the heroes continue to learn about each other and their motivations, Captain Jhared expertly directs his crew to maneuver the Catfish out to a current in the rising tide. Jhared asks Toston to assist with the sails; something a sea-going sailor would be familiar. Toston can see he picked well, both in boat and captain, for thought here are other watercraft also taking advantage of the tide to get a head start up the river, the Catfish is soon in front. By the time the tide reverses, the Catfish is around a bend and Dirt City is only a smudge of cooking fires on the southern horizon.
There are corpses of trees (Willow, Birch, and Aspen) along the banks, growing ever more sparse as the Catfish sails and poles up the river. By evening, the boat anchored on a sandbank, all around is Izen. (Know Geography DC 10 Highlight to display spoiler: { Named for the orcish word meaning “Sandwich”, this land is “sandwiched” between Blackbird Lake and the New Elennian plateaus. Not claimed by any principality, it has filled with demikind and monsters of every description. }
During the day and around the cookfire, it sounds like the heroes need to talk more about what each group is doing... …….. OOC: unicorn Map ; https://docs.google.com/drawings/d/1oJWcc_4TfGjhFnaOYzYksUouG409BwYv7LrMBHUKWSw/edIt
Desdichado(Ryan Baker) [HP: 93/93; AC:20/10/20 - CMD 23] Wednesday March 20th, 2019 12:30:19 PM
Desdichado smiles at Hmerrin and with a small, quiet laugh responds “Dez will do fine. Certainly I’ve been called worse.”
He follows Gaffer and the rest to where they can talk in peace.
“Well, you know how divine portents go; they’re always half-shrouded clues like ‘look to the “whispering crow” to find the answer you seek’. Probably for our benefit though, really.” He walks to the gunwale, leans against it, and continues. “In this case, in turns out Domi was forthright with the priest. We are here to help the Tide – your group, it appears – because you’re important. So, how can we help?”
“Also,” Desdichado adds, “how long does it take before you know if you tend to seasickness? This is my first time on a ship…”
Wilford Grimly (HP:47/47; AC: 19; Touch: 12; Flat: 16; CMD: 18) Wednesday March 20th, 2019 2:58:28 PM
Wil take up a comfortable place to stand on the ship. The abrupt movement begins to make him uneasy. "It's like a storming sea within your head," Ivan says. "Don't act like you live in my head," Wil snaps. "Your a bit of a kill joy, Cicero was right about that." Wil ignores the comment. "So how was your trip and how did you find us?" Wil asks.
Sarge (Kathy) Wednesday March 20th, 2019 3:06:53 PM
[OOC: We almost certainly would have come from Plateau City by ship, although it may be Desdichado's first time on a river boat. :) ]
Sarge stows her gear and sets her shield down, though she is careful to keep it close by.
As the boat pushes northward, Sarge shares a few more details with her new companions. "I'm a cleric. Well, mostly. Spent a year in the militia. Filthy giants! Anyway, we sent them packing and then it was back to the temple for me. People kept calling me Sarge, though. I couldn't shake it, and then I didn't want to."
Around the campfire, Sarge talks about her two sons, both grown, and her husband, who is contently tending his shop. "But I got restless," she explained. "I kept thinking there was more good I could do, out in the world. I don't know whether it was Domi's call, or just a creaky old battle-ax wanting a last hurrah. Don't suppose it matters."
Hmerrin(HP 100/100 AC:26 T:15 FF:22 CMD:26) Wednesday March 20th, 2019 6:20:35 PM
Hmerrin shrugs at Dez's question about sea-sickness. "Beats me. But, we'll be on the river, so shouldn't be a real wave problem"
By the time they've settled around the cookfire that evening, Hmerrin has gotten fairly comfortable with the newcomers. "A priest would be welcome. I find myself in need of healing spells more often than I'd like. Name's Hmerrin," he says, barely sounding the H. I'm from Cinnamon Valley. We had a group of adventurers there when I was little that seemed like they could do anything. I always wanted to be one."
Darkness is coming, and the fighter does get down to a bit of business. "So, shifts. I'm thinking Sarge and Terser, me and Dez, then Wil and Gaffer. The lad will also hunt down Captain Jhared to see what his nightwatch will look like, "just so none of us accidentally kills somebody critical," he deadpans.
Toston Lotor(Hugh Crosmun) [HP: 67/67; AC:23/20/19 - CMD 26 d20+1=16 ; d20+11=15 ; Wednesday March 20th, 2019 8:27:34 PM
(Know[Geography]: 16) (Profession[sailor]: 15 to know about sea-sickness)
In response to Desdichado's question, "Normally you know right away if you get sea-sickness but if you are tough enough mentally you can get over it."
He then says, "Where are my manners, I'm Toston, Toston Lotor."
Later when they are anchored on the sand bank Toston says, "You realize where we are is named for the Orcish word for sandwich? It is wild country not really claimed by any principality and filled to the brim with monsters and demikind."
To Hmerrin he says, "Who is this Terser person?"
To Sarge he says, "Well it's nice to have a follower of Domi. Our old cleric was a follower of Alemi. My grandda used to tell me the stories of Domi's and Alemi's adventures from back when they were mortals as a kid. I kind of wanted to follow in both there footsteps as I know a little martial arts and a little magic. Alemi even showed up after Ethani was slain in combat trying to save Wil by patching him up, I have to imagine your style is probably different?"
To Desdichado he says, "Was it some kind of prophecy? Do the priests of Domi think we have some big destiny ahead of us? I mean right now we are kind of on a treasure hunt but that can be exciting no? I mean it isn't every day a group of Orcs show up with tribute and a treasure map and then run off."
Gaffer (Courtney HP: 78/78 AC:21(T:16/FF:15) CMD:20 WS 3/3 LL 8/8) d20+16=35 ; d20+16=34 ; Thursday March 21st, 2019 3:50:07 AM
Gaffer keeps an eye out while they travel, not having seen the land from the river before it is a novel experience, and he is at least a little worried that the captain is expecting trouble. (Perception: 35)
He finds a chance to introduce himself a little once they gather round the campfire.
"I was living life in Culverwoods until recently but had always intended to come back home. I don't think I was back for more than a week when I came across this band of misfits."
Gaffer takes a search of their surroundings when they settle for the night, eye out for tracks of any larger creatures that may be around. (Survival: 34)
To Dez, he adds onto Tostons question, "What kind of situations do you normally deal with? Should we be expecting some of them coming our way?"
Tollhouse. (DM SteveK) Thursday March 21st, 2019 10:22:37 AM
The heroes converse, getting to know each other’s history and the why Desdichado and Sarge came to Dirt City (via a sailing ship from South Harbor) in the first place. Toston provides some information on what the Tide are doing right now as well as the name origin of “Izen”. The Tide is just following a treasure map! And Gaffer keeps his eyes peeled for the expected trouble.
Gaffer notes that the Catfish is NOT going up a river at all, but rather skirting the coast in a sound of water that is bordered on the starboard by the mainland, and low barrier islands to port. A quick question to Jhared provides an answer. “Oh, you know those new DMs, always mis-interpreting maps! Everyone knows there isn’t a river in Dirt City!”, he scoffs. Then continuing, “What the Catfish will do is use the coastal waterway to go around the Blanc de Forest and then up the South Peaseblossom. Still the best for flatboats; an ocean-going ship with its deep draft would get caught on sandbars and snags all the way through Izen.”
Hmerrin is the first to get down to business, suggesting a watch order and integrating with the Catfish crew. Captain Jhared welcomes the cooperation, and assigns two crew to each hero-watch (this also makes the heroes popular with the crew since half of them get to sleep the entire night instead of being up).
……. Nothing happens that night, nor for the next three nights. Toston, Hmerrin, Wilford, Gaffer, Desdichado, and Sarge continue to familiarize themselves with each other’s history, capabilities, and commiserating on the vagueness of the portent that sent the two followers of Domi to meet the Tide in the first place. They also become familiarized to the Catfish and crew; a stable platform except when they crossed an outgoing tide that bounced the craft about. The crew are efficient, friendly enough, and like to complain about bad food, the weather, and the opposite sex. The land moves from the coastal waterway, up the Peasblossom beyond Blanc de Forest and the Dirt Hills, and is now in a land of endless plains. The Peaseblossom itself is in a lower area with sandbars and occasional shallow rapids that the Catfish crew passes by all 12 getting on long poles and poling up the river to smoother waters.
The Catfish is at one such rapids area in early afternoon when a griffin and two hippogryphs emerge from a copse of aspen trees (walking) on top of a bank about 100 feet away on the left bank. Each creature has barding, saddle, and bridle, and is mounted by an orc!
The orc on the griffin waves a bow over his head and shouts; “Hey boat! Griffin Tribe own this part of river. You cross? You pay. Boat look rich. Not-boat people look rich. So cost 500 gold to cross. You want escort so no more tolls from other tribes? 5,000 gold.” Perception DC 20 Highlight to display spoiler: { Keen ears can hear more large wings flapping hard as if taking off on the unseen side of the trees. }
Wilford Grimly (HP:47/47; AC: 19; Touch: 12; Flat: 16; CMD: 18) d20+8=16 ; d20+11=20 ; Thursday March 21st, 2019 2:42:19 PM
"You will have to take that up with the Commissioner on Water. I don't believe an individual can take territory that is under water." Wil shouts back. "I hear the Commissioner sits with the Prince in Dirt City." (Bluff: 16) "We will just be up the river.. you can catch up to us later." "You may want to license them large birds you got! I hear the fine for keeping them is huge."
Desdichado(Ryan Baker) [HP: 93/93; AC:20/10/20 - CMD 23] d20+15=27 ; d20+10=11 ; Thursday March 21st, 2019 3:06:19 PM
Dez responds to Gaffer, “What kind of situations? Oh, usually the troublesome ki-“. He’s interrupted by the orc’s shouting and adds, “like this.”
Desdichado doesn’t say anything to the orc, but squints his eyes and looks over at him, trying to get a read on the situation. (Sense Motive: 27, to see if this is mere banditry or something else)
(Perception: 11)
Sarge (Kathy) Thursday March 21st, 2019 3:43:52 PM
Casually, Sarge picks up her shield. She does not respond to the orcs, but instead says to her companions, "They think pretty highly of themselves, don't they?"
Turning to the captain, she asks, "Captain? I suppose this is your decision. Do you want to pay them, or would you prefer we--" she grins "--negotiated?"
Toston says to the Tide and the two Domi faithful, "I wonder if our 'friend' over yonder shore is merely a distraction. Unless my ears are mistaken it sounds like there are many wings taking off behind the trees over there" as he points to where the sounds are coming from.
He shouts back to the Orc, "Are those wing beats I hear from the trees with you or is your escort ability so lacking that you can't even secure the area around the river from threats?"
He then casts Mage Armor on himself, giving him a 5 hour buff to armor.
Active Effects: Mage Armor: 5 hours - +4 AC
Gaffer (Courtney HP: 78/78 AC:25(21)(T:16/FF:15) CMD:20 WS 3/3 LL 8/8) d20+16=33 ; Friday March 22nd, 2019 5:27:51 AM
(Perception: 33)
Speaking to those at his side, "How comfortable are we all with aerial fights?" Hearing the beating of wings over the way, "I didn't much like the idea of handing over money anyway"
He smiles at Toston's question, taking it as a good queue to prepare for a fight. Drawing his focus, sending a thread of power into it, then feeling it rush back through his body, heating under his skin. His flesh gnarls as he casts Barkskin on himself, hardening his body.
-----Active Effects----- Barkskin: 90 Minutes - +4 AC
“Negotiations” COMBAT ROUNDS (DM SteveK) d20=15 ; Friday March 22nd, 2019 7:36:29 AM
Wilford provides an alternate hypothesis to the orc, who laughs at the outlandish claim. “No dirty-boy here. Griffin Tribe here”, he says with sound logic.
Desdichado watches the speaker carefully, and gets a gut feeling that the orc is trustworthy.
Sarge picks up her shield and poses a decision to Captain Jhared. The half-elf grimaces. “I can pay 50 gold without going bust on this trip, and the Catfish can’t go over those rapids without all my crew on poles which makes them vulnerable to attack.” Jhared pauses a minute and looks at the dwarf. “I choose to ‘negotiate’.
Hmerrin chuckles at Sarge's question, prepares his bow, and states that ‘we're gonna get along fine’.
Toston relays what he hears behind the same copse of trees to the left where the orc-riders emerged, then calls a query which clearly the orc takes as an insult, brows furrowed and complexion darkening. A cast spell provides protection.
Gaffer concludes that the fight is going to be in the air. How comfortable are the heroes with that? A cast spell provides protection.
…….. Jhared pauses a minute and looks at the dwarf and the others getting ready. “I choose to ‘negotiate’.” Then just loud enough for the crew to hear he calls “Plan Beaver!” As if the crew were ready (and they probably were), each member pushes their pole through a rope loop at the gunwales, and sinks the pole end into the soft river bottom. Then they dive for hatches or roll underneath cargo stacked on the boat. The boat is clear of non-combatants!
Even the hippogryphs notice the battle preparations; weapons at hand, spells cast, crew disappearing. “No pay means no pass”, growls the one on the griffin. The three members of the griffin tribe back their mounts up, disappearing into the copse of trees. There is a bunch of rustling, then more beating wing sounds, then … nothing.
Well, nothing for a minute. Then the heroes can see a ‘V’ formation of 8 winged and four-legged creatures in the sky that flies from the west to circle far above the Catfish and shallow rapids. They maintain their position 500 feet above the unmoving flatboat. A voice shouts from the group above:
Perception DC 10 (shouting from 500 feet away) Highlight to display spoiler: { “We shoot arrows and drop rocks if boat tries to pass with no pay. When you decide pay, you put 500 gold stuff on bank and we no shoot.”} Perception DC 15 Highlight to display spoiler: { There are 2 Giffins and 6 Hippogryphs in the formation, all with riders.} Perception DC 20 Highlight to display spoiler: { The riders all have bows and a mesh sack that carries fist-sized rocks.}
Wilford Grimly (HP:47/47; AC: 19; Touch: 12; Flat: 16; CMD: 18) d20+11=12 ; Friday March 22nd, 2019 12:41:05 PM
"Well, negotiation is out of the question if they start throwing rocks and arrows. Do we pay or fight? I am happy to do either, on second thought.. I'm really not in a negotiating mood." Wil casts Entropic Shield on himself. "Time to test out my new protection idea."
Orisons: Detect Magic x1, Resistance: x2 Light: 1 Granted Powers D: Resistant Touch - D: Touch of Good - Lv1: Protection from Evil/Chaos..etc, Entropic Shield, Shield of Faith - D: Sanctuary Lv2: Spiritual Weapon, Resist Energy, Consecrate, D: Shield Another (if needed - Cure moderate Wounds) Lv3: Magic Vestment, Magic Circle against... - D: Protection from Energy Lv4: Holy Smite, Summon Monster IV - Domain: Dispel Evil Lv5: -- Channel energy 3d6
Sarge [AC 21; HP 61/61] (Kathy) Friday March 22nd, 2019 3:30:03 PM
Sarge draws her warhammer, then casts Bless on the party. "I can make somebody bigger," she offers. "How 'bout it, Dez? You want to be Mega-Dez? I can also boost peoples' strength, but only if they don't already have a belt or something."
Dez pulls out his greataxe and plants his feet apart. "Thanks, Sarge - a super sized Dez might be pretty handy just about now."
"Captain, it sounds like they're getting ready to drop some rocks on our heads. You might want to anyone who's not needed for steering or fighting into a safer position."
Dez prepares to cast Divine Favor on himself when the fighting begins.
(Divine Favor: +2 luck bonus: Attack and Damage. 1 minute)
"He's saying he's gonna drops rocks on us till we cough up the gold," Hmerrin remarks grimly. "Which, I gotta say, is a great plan. 'Cause if they stay that high, there ain't a bloody thing we can do about it."
The fighter raises his bow, and thinks about it. He doesn't shoot.
"Let's see if they get any closer, or make a run at us anyway," he suggests.
Toston says to Hmerrin, "You have the right of it. Also there are 6 hippogryphs and 2 griffons and all the riders have bows and a mesh sack that has fist sized rocks."
Toston says to his companions, "500 feet is somewhat out of my range. I don't even think my long bow can hit and even then it is a very difficult shot if it could. My scorching ray range is 35 feet, my magic missile range and burning sphere range is 150 feet. I also don't know the fly spell. Anyone have any ideas?"
He then casts shield on himself to complete his normal pre-battle buffs.
Active Effects: Mage Armor: 5 hours - 1 round = +4 AC Shield: 5 min [50 rounds] = +4 shield bonus to AC; immunity from magic missile
Gaffer (Courtney HP: 78/78 AC:25(21)(T:16/FF:15) CMD:20 WS 3/3 LL 8/8) Sunday March 24th, 2019 7:00:53 PM
"I've a spell to block some of the arrows, but it won't do much good with the rocks." Gaffer offers, "I have a few ways to hurt them but not enough."
"I might be able to do something here, but it is a little risky."
(Question: I believe I can summon 3 Griffin's with Summon Nature's Ally 5: Would they be usable as mounts? If so, I would like to cast that on the last round before the fight, for my allies to ride, and warn them of the limited duration.)
Looking to see if the captain stayed on deck or hid with the other crew members, he asks, "How much damage can the boat sustain, if it can't be avoided?"
*****Active Effects***** Barkskin - 89 Minutes - +4 AC
“Standoff”. Out of Combat Rounds (DM SteveK) Monday March 25th, 2019 7:50:02 AM
Wilford is not in a negotiating mood, casts Entropic Shield on himself, and waits for the coming battle.
Sarge draws her warhammer, casts Bless on the party, and provides the Tide a couple options that she can do in supportive magics.
Desdichado pulls out his greataxe and plants his feet apart. He calls to the Captain, and looks to see that Jhared already has himself and his people under cover. Dez ‘readies’ Divine Favor for himself when the melee begins.
Hmerrin relays what he heard from the orcs flying above and waits to see what they do. He readies his bow to shoot if they make a run at the Catfish.
Toston confirms the young fighters assessment and adds some information of his own, including that the orcs are out of range of his spells. He then casts shield on himself.
Gaffer offers more spell options to include summoning some Griffins of their own, at least for a short time! The druid considers that a hero could use a summoned griffin as a mount, but they wouldn’t be trained as a mount nor have the exotic saddles the orcs have on their mounts: it would require constant pushing of the animal to handle a rider (i.e. Handle Animal DC 25 each round). He also calls out a question for Captain Jhared.
…………..
Jhared wants to be as helpful to the heroes as possible without putting himself or his crew at risk. He stands inside the door to the flatboat cabin to have overhead cover but able to keep an eye on the situation. “The crew is safe enough where they are (hiding in the flatboat or under heavy barrels), and the Catfish can take a great deal of damage. If Toston is right about the rocks being fist-sized, I’m pretty certain they wouldn’t do any damage to her. If you decide to pay, I can only afford 50gp without cutting into my crew's wages.”
And the orcs… do nothing. Well, not ‘nothing’. Their formation becomes looser and the griffins and hippogryphs begin soaring patterns, riding the updrafts while keeping in sight of the Catfish and the shallow rapids. Analyzing the pattern, the Griffin Tribe warriors aren’t actually over the flatboat: their pattern is centered on the rapids!
Hmerrin and Toston think back to what the orc leader actually said: ‘We shoot arrows and drop rocks if boat tries to pass with no pay.’ “IF.” And it appears that the orcs aren’t going to shoot or drop unless the Catfish tries to pass the shallow rapids without paying. But the Catfish can’t go forward unless the crew are all at the poles, and they won’t do that until the danger has passed.
It is a standoff. The sun continues to move towards mid-afternoon with the Catfish anchored in the river. The crew is under hard cover and the orcs aren’t looking like they are going to get any closer to the boat or heroes while they are not trying to cross the rapids. Any decision for action or movement seems to be entirely in the hands of The Tide.
Wilford Grimly (HP:47/47; AC: 19; Touch: 12; Flat: 16; CMD: 18) d20+11=19 ; Monday March 25th, 2019 8:43:54 AM
"Hey," Wil says loudly to the orcs. "Can we help you in any other way? Can we do you a favor to pass? Maybe we can solve a problem?" (Diplomacy: 19) "We have a good relationship with your orcish brethren North of Dirt city? Have you heard of a unicorn riding clan? Can we talk upon the shore?"
Desdichado(Ryan Baker) [HP: 93/93; AC:20/10/20 - CMD 23] d20+15=33 ; Monday March 25th, 2019 4:16:17 PM
Dez puts his axe away as a sign of good-faith, and attempts to help Wil negotiate with the orcs.
(Diplomacy: 33, for +2 aid)
“Yes, none of us wants to shed blood here today.” Shouts Desdichado. “Let’s see if we can come to an understanding together in how we might help you.”
Hmerrin(HP 100/100 AC:26 T:15 FF:22 CMD:26) Monday March 25th, 2019 6:23:40 PM
While Dez and Wil see if they can get the orcs to play ball, Hmerrin goes over the options, talking loud enough to include Capt Jhared, but not shouting.
"If we can't come to an understanding," he states, "I'm seeing only a few real options. One, we pay the money. Two, we back off like we're going home, tie off after a mile or two, walk back here, figure out where they're based, and kill enough of them to change their minds."
The lad looks over at the captain. "Now, if you've got the time, I like Option Two. But, it might take a couple three, days, though. We gotta wait till they're comfy again, sneak up, scout around, find 'em, and trap 'em before they take off."
Sarge [AC 21; HP 61/61] (Kathy) Monday March 25th, 2019 10:45:58 PM
"Captain, how many men do you absolutely need to move the boat? Maybe each of us could shield a sailor as he goes about his work." She hefts her own shield to illustrate.
Toston Lotor(Hugh Crosmun) [HP: 67/67; AC:31/20/27- CMD 26 Monday March 25th, 2019 10:55:32 PM
Toston says to Sarge and the Captain, "I could take a pole, I'm stronger than I look and I know how to sail. That way a civilian wouldn't have to risk their life and I don't really have a shield like Sarge does."
Toston then adds to the group as a whole, "As for Hmerrin's suggestion what if we did as the lad suggested, but before we sprung the surprise attack, sent someone to sneak in and cut all the straps of their exotic saddles. They can't ride the griffins or hipporgryphs without those saddles and it would massively impact their ability to escape or for the survivors to rally a revenge bombing mission"
Gaffer (Courtney HP: 78/78 AC:25(21)(T:16/FF:15) CMD:20 WS 3/3 LL 8/8) Tuesday March 26th, 2019 3:48:40 AM
"I might be able to take a pole as well, or I can try and distract them with a couple waves of air elementals, see how they do with a few whirlwinds around them." Following Sarge's like of though.
Not against waiting though, he adds, "If we do wait and come back another day I can have a few Airwalk spells prepared, they would still have the advantage in the air but it might be enough to get to them."
“Standoff”. Out of Combat Rounds (DM SteveK) d20=10 ; d20=18 ; Tuesday March 26th, 2019 7:20:24 AM
Wilford, with Desdichado’s help, attempts to try some diplomacy with the orcs, maybe a favor?
Hmerrin thinks of alternate plans while the attempt at diplomacy goes on. Pay? Withdraw and take a couple days to hunt the Griffin Tribe down to show them the error of their ways?
Sarge suggests each hero shielding a sailor as they move the boat. Jhared considers but then shakes his head, “Sorry, m’lady, but the place for a toll is well-placed. I’d need all 12 crew pushing plus me at the steering oar to get over this section of river.”
Toston provides input to Sarge’s suggestion by having some heroes take poles. And more input to Hmerrin’s suggestion to make the raid more effective.
Gaffer offers to take a pole too, or summon several waves of air elementals to scatter the Griffin Tribe.
……. The sun moves across the sky, turning orange as late afternoon approaches.
The orcs don’t seem to react to the shouts of Wilford or Desdichado. Perhaps they are not persuasive enough, or perhaps the heroes hear better than the orcs. But the pattern doesn’t move.
With Captain Jhared unwilling to try Sarge’s plan, ”Still too risky to my crew”, there is Gaffer’s ‘air elemental plan or Hmerrin’s plan. ”Or”, says Jhared, ”we will have to wait for nightfall and then float back to Dirt City. I could let you off here at night before I go. The orcs and their mounts wouldn’t be able to see you. No one can see far tonight after bright Wardd sets and the dark moon Kerracles is ascendant.”
The decision and actions still seem to lay at the hands of the heroes.
Wilford Grimly (HP:47/47; AC: 19; Touch: 12; Flat: 16; CMD: 18) Tuesday March 26th, 2019 11:05:44 AM
"Hey, they ignored you," Cicero said. "Are you going to take that?" Ivan added. "Let's just park the boat," Wil suggested. "We can walk or fight in the trees. The trees should give us some cover from above."
Sarge [AC 21; HP 61/61] (Kathy) Tuesday March 26th, 2019 1:25:49 PM No one can see far tonight...
"Well, I can," Sarge says. "Dwarf, you know. Maybe that's our answer? You and your crew make like you're giving up and going back downriver, but you let us off and wait for a bit. See if we can take them out once they've landed."
Desdichado(Ryan Baker) [HP: 93/93; AC:20/10/20 - CMD 23] Tuesday March 26th, 2019 1:46:03 PM
"I don't mind walking," Dez responds. "Does anyone know this area? How safe is it to walk through here at night when it will be mostly dark?"
"Not that I mind a little danger," he clarifies, "I just wouldn't want us to get separated in the dark."
Hmerrin(HP 100/100 AC:26 T:15 FF:22 CMD:26) Tuesday March 26th, 2019 6:26:24 PM
"We'll wait then," Hmerrin declares. "Come night we can get off here, or if the goobers are still about, float back, and get out there."
"Once on shore, we'll figure out next steps."
The lad regards the hovering orcs and flying mounts with a look of irritation, and settles down to await sundown.
Toston Lotor(Hugh Crosmun) [HP: 67/67; AC:31/20/27- CMD 26 Tuesday March 26th, 2019 9:16:56 PM
Toston says, "I'm sure you have your own reasons for getting to the Emerald City, Captain. It would be remiss of us to have traveled all this way just to see you turn around and go back to Dirt City. Surely you are transporting some sort of cargo that has to get there at some point in time. I'd prefer to take out these highwaymen since it would make the road safer for other travelers too. Sadly they have us at a huge disadvantage and hopefully we can even things up after nightfall."
Gaffer (Courtney HP: 78/78 AC:25(21)(T:16/FF:15) CMD:20 WS 3/3 LL 8/8) Wednesday March 27th, 2019 4:03:09 AM
"Nightfall it is then" Gaffer nods, happy they have settled on a plan, he stops paying attention to the looming Griffins above.
"Was them offering us safe passage a bluff? We might need to take care of a few groups like this as we travel."
Night Falls. (DM SteveK) Wednesday March 27th, 2019 7:16:03 AM
Wilford overcomes his inner voices and recommends beaching the boat by some trees.
Sarge corrects the night visibility assumptions of Captain Jhared and suggests a new plan.
Desdichado thinks walking from here is a good idea.
Hmerrin declares they wait until night and figure out the next steps once on shore.
Toston doesn’t want to abandon the flatboat and Jhared’s own reasons for getting to the Emerald City. He wants to ‘take out’ the highwaymen and make the river safer. He’s also looking to even things up after nightfall.
Gaffer agrees: nightfall it is then. And thinking ahead, the druid points out there may be a few more groups like this. …….
The decision made, ‘park and wait for nightfall’, Jhared rouses the crew from their hiding places and expertly commands the Catfish to a narrow mud flat on the right bank of the river near a small copse of willow trees. In the westering sun, the crew set up camp, successfully catch some bass and one walleye, and start two cooking fires, one for the crew and one for Jhared and the heroes. As the sun touches the horizon, the airborne orcs spiral down and land on the far side of the copse of trees on the left bank (opposite bank from the Catfish and the heroes). (Sense Motive DC 20 for hunch Highlight to display spoiler: { The hunch is the orcs seem satisfied the Catfish isn’t going anywhere at night, but are taking precautions to keep away from the well-armed adventurers.}
Captain Jhared sits with the heroes, eating the fresh grilled fish. “I have two skiffs that you can use to cross the river when its full dark to hunt for the Griffin Tribe’s camp. My crew will set stuffed sleeping areas to make it look like we are all here. Or you can just walk from here. Without your obvious wealth, I hope the price to pass will go down.” (2nd Sense Motive check DC20 for hunch Highlight to display spoiler: { the crew looks like they will talk when back at Dirt City. If ‘The Tide’ can’t protect a flatboat from a handful of orcs… }
Sitting around the fire, Dez looks across the way as he sees the motion of the orcs.
"Those orcs seem pretty content that the Catfish isn't going anywhere. I don't think they'll bother us tonight - in fact, they look like they are purposefully keeping their distance."
To Jhared he says, "Captain, we'll do what we can to prove to your men that our help is worth something." Looking more broadly at the rest of the Tide members he says "We don't want to let these guys down. What will it take to man these skiffs? I say we head to the camp and either talk it out or....continue negotiations."
Hmerrin(HP 100/100 AC:26 T:15 FF:22 CMD:26) d20=3 ; d20=7 ; Wednesday March 27th, 2019 5:22:23 PM Sense Motives 3, 7
Hmerrin enjoys himself some fried catfish. As sundown nears, and the orcs fly off, he gets up and stretches. "'Bout time to earn our ride," he comments, unconsciously echoing Dez.
"Gaffer, can you change into some kinda night flyer and do some scouting? Owl, bat, orc devouring dragon, whatever. Don't know about Dez or Sarge, but I don't sneak well, so we'll need a lot of notice we're getting close."
"Toston's our sailor," he answers Dez, "but how hard can it be to row across a river?"
The young fighter waves The Tide to the skiffs. "Sarge, keep an eye out for us."
Toston says, "The Orcs think we aren't going anywhere in the Catfish but they are still trying to keep their distance from us."
He then says, "It isn't hard to row a skiff across a river and I will gladly put us on the other side as long as Sarge can navigate. I can see in dim light but if it is really dark we'll need Sarge with her dwarf eyes to get us there"
Sarge [AC 21; HP 61/61] (Kathy) d20+6=9 ; Wednesday March 27th, 2019 11:05:18 PM
"Don't worry; I won't let us hit anything," Sarge says. "And no, I'm not sneaky. Full plate is pretty noisy even under the best circumstances."
Gaffer (Courtney HP: 78/78 AC:25(21)(T:16/FF:15) CMD:20 WS 3/3 LL 8/8) d20+16=20 ; Thursday March 28th, 2019 4:31:37 AM
Gaffer nods his thanks before hungrily tearing into the fish. He watches as the sun fades behind the horizon before climbing to his feet with a yawn.
"Let's get this done before it gets too late." He nods to Hmerrin, "I'll keep an eye out, let you know when we get close."
He makes sure the party is ready to leave before jumping from the banks and shaping into a Hawk and taking flight.
He flies ahead of the party as they travel, watching the terrain for either difficulty or movement, not neglecting to watch the skies either in case their Orcs had similar ideas. (Perception: 20)
Stalking Orcs and Griffins (DM SteveK) Thursday March 28th, 2019 10:03:51 AM
Unanimously, the heroes decide to cross the river and remove the orc obstacle by discussion or 'negotiations'. Crossing the river turns out to be easy. Two heroes paddling a skiff each (basically a raft with sides) with Sarge in the front of the lead skiff to give directions, and GafferHawk flying above for reconnaissance takes the team about 15 minutes to cross the slow moving Peaseblossom. The western bank is high, but there are many small ravines filled with trees, brush, and a dry rocky streambed that make it relatively easy to find a landing spot. Sarge picks one spot and Toston (Sail DC 5) ensures the skiffs are grounded enough so they won't break free, but will be able to refloat easily.
Up the ravine the heroes go, GafferHawk in the lead with Sarge less than 60' behind, and the remaining four heroes following. A Hawk doesn't see well in the dark, and there is no bright moon, but the celestial objects of Jericho Space provide sufficient light so even humans can see shadows 20 feet away. (Know Geography DC 20 Highlight to display spoiler: { Both bodies of Carcass Clouds are particularly bright tonight, gently glimmering like two red Milky Ways.})
It takes the team a half hour to get to the top of the ravine and at the last copse of trees before the grassy plains of Izen sprawl westwards. (Assuming GafferHawk can't speak) At the top of the ravine, GafferHawk perches on a low branch and soon the other heroes can see and hear what GafferHawk has already: the Griffin Tribe camp!
One central fire, 120' away from where the heroes crouch, is slowly burning to embers, but still shines as bright as a torch revlealing six Medium lumps in a circle 10' away from the fire, and eight Large lumps in a circle 20' away from the fire. Two shadowy figures are seen moving from Large lump to Large lump. More than the sight is the noise, a constant rustling of large feathers as the griffins and hippogryphs settle and move in their sleep and the snoring! Not only are there a couple bass snores of two orcs, but both griffins are emitting a trilling snore that nearly drowns out everything else!
The heroes are in a concealed position 100' east of the nearest large lump. The land looks nearly as flat as a Dirt City street (ie no terrain obstacles). It looks like initiative for planning or action is in the hands of our heroes!
....... NOTE: It has been 5 hours since spells were cast upon initial contact with the Griffin Tribe. Casters have NOT renewed spells.
Wilford Grimly (HP:47/47; AC: 19; Touch: 12; Flat: 16; CMD: 18) d20+10=15 ; Thursday March 28th, 2019 11:59:37 AM
(Stealth: 15) "We can attack the party, surprise and negotiate or just walk pass and continue our trip?" Will suggests. "We could also acquire some of those hippogryphs to use as a bargaining chip. How do you knock out or put them to sleep? I prefer this because it sounds like fun."
Hmerrin(HP 100/100 AC:26 T:15 FF:22 CMD:26) Thursday March 28th, 2019 6:15:05 PM
"Walking on past leaves our good captain and his crew hanging," Hmerrin answers with a low whisper. "And I hate to waste the advantage of surprise."
"The problem is who to hit. We hit the mounts, and some of the orcs are probably gonna be able to grab a couple three that we can't reach, fly off and we're back to square one. Or we hit the orcs, and maybe the mounts fly off, or maybe they go back to wherever and bring help, or maybe they attack us. All depends on their training and loyalty."
The lad sighs.
"I say go for the orcs. We circle around a bit to get closer to the group of medium sized sleepers, charge in, and see what happens."
Toston Lotor(Hugh Crosmun) [HP: 67/67; AC:23/20/21- CMD 26 Thursday March 28th, 2019 9:22:25 PM
Toston says, "I could breathe fire in a 30 foot cone, then follow up with a burning hands spell in a 15 foot cone. I agree about concentrating fire on the orcs, the only question I have is do we think any of us is stealthily enough to sneak in first, and start slicing the straps of their exotic saddles for their mounts and the mesh bags they keep stones in. Without their exotic saddles or stone sacks the threat to the boat massively diminishes. The only problem is what do we do if this lone saboteur was discovered prematurely?"
Sarge [AC 21; HP 61/61] (Kathy) Thursday March 28th, 2019 10:14:15 PM
"We should hit the orcs," Sarge agrees. "Because they're orcs. If we're worried about the mounts maybe going for help, we could put off the attack until closer to dawn. That way we could hightail it back to the Catfish and get through the shallows before help could arrive."
Gaffer (Courtney HP: 78/78 AC:25(21)(T:16/FF:15) CMD:20 WS 3/3 LL 8/8) d20+16=27 ; Friday March 29th, 2019 5:16:12 AM
[DM edit]. The hawk that is Gaffer chirps and bobs his head when the plan on attacking the orcs is discussed. [end DM edit]
Looking over the terrain between them, Gaffer scans once more to make sure there isn't anything they have missed. No figures sneaking about. (Perception: 27)
[DM edit] The hawk chirps softly again, as if giving information. [end DM edit]
Before Dawns Early Light (DM SteveK) Friday March 29th, 2019 7:17:17 AM
Wilford, Hmerrin, Toston, and Sarge decide that waiting until just an hour before dawn, getting closer, and concentrating attacks on the orcs is the best course of action. Desdichado, naturally the strong and silent type, has no objections.
GafferHawk chirps and bobs his head up and down, an easy sign he agrees to the plan. (ooc: GafferHawk can't speak. DM did edits to remove conversation from Gaffer's post.)
Toston again brings up his idea of targeting the exotic saddles, but it doesn't seem to go anywhere.
Hmerrin takes another look at the sleepers and discovers that his eyes (ooc: or the DMs description) were misconstrued: the camp is laid out like an archery target where the fire is the bullseye, the Medium lumps are the first ring, and the Large lumps (with two shadowy figures walking and stopping by each Large lump) is the second ring. The Tide will have to move past the prone and sleeping Large lumps to get to the Medium lumps.
With a basic plan established, the team settles in to wait. Wilford does a little sneaking about and discovers the orcs are using a small copse of trees as a latrine. These trees are only 40 feet from the outer circle of Large lumps, and conveniently has a gap between the two snoring griffins. (Obviously, the orcs didn't want to walk around a mount to relieve themselves.)
Gaffer, skilled in navigating in the wilderness (auto Survival DC 5 to tell time) wakes up the team from their catnaps when the dark moon Kerracles is a forearm's length from the western horizon; pre-dawn is not far off. It has also been more than 9 hours since Gaffer turned into a hawk, so he is back to being human.
The whole team, screened from sight by the latrine copse and screened by noise because of the cacophony of snoring, is able to get to the latrine copse. They are now 40 feet from the gap between the two griffins and 50 feet from the nearest Medium lump (presumeably the orcs). The two shadowy figures are walking together as they check out the sleeping mounts. They are at the griffin to the party's left and in another minute will walk clockwise to the first hippogryph lump.
(ooc: Please note if your PC moves when the orcs are at the griffin or have moved around the circle.)
.....
NOTE: Casters have now had sufficient time to rest and renew spell slots.
Wilford Grimly (HP:47/47; AC: 19; Touch: 12; Flat: 16; CMD: 18) Friday March 29th, 2019 4:31:39 PM
"Ok, here's my thought," Wil says. "I have some smoke sticks. We set off the smoke sticks near the hippogryph with the intent of frightening them and create a distraction. This will remove the ability for the orcs to take to the sky. We then attack from the opposite direction. I say we try to do this as non-violently as possible. I have several shield spells and Magic vestment. I can apply these to those in the attack squad. I will set off as many of the smoke sticks as I can and then leave and stay with the archers."
Orisons: Detect Magic x1, Resistance: x2 Light: 1 Granted Powers D: Resistant Touch - D: Touch of Good - Lv1: Protection from Evil/Chaos..etc, Entropic Shield, Shield of Faith - D: Sanctuary Lv2: Spiritual Weapon, Resist Energy, Consecrate, D: Shield Another (if needed - Cure moderate Wounds) Lv3: Magic Vestment, Magic Circle against... - D: Protection from Energy
-- Channel energy 3d6
Hmerrin(HP 100/100 AC:26 T:15 FF:22 CMD:26) Friday March 29th, 2019 8:35:05 PM
The group circles the camp, takes up position, and Hmerrin is all ready to scream 'charge' when Wil offers up another option.
Hmerrin looks at him.
"Well, me an' the new folks are all carrying big, nasty axes. So non-violent is going to be problem." "But, spells and smoke are good."
"Wait for those two guards to get to the far side, then you and whoever run in and chuck smoke. Me an' Sarge an' Dez charge in and hit the orcs. Everyone else do what they do."
Hmerrin waits, both for agreement to the plan, and the guards to get to the far side. When the guards get back to that
Desdichado(Ryan Baker) [HP: 93/93; AC:20/10/20 - CMD 23] Friday March 29th, 2019 8:55:48 PM
Dez nods at Hmerrin. "Sounds like a plan."
(OOC: Sorry for the missed post on Thursday. My son broke his arm and we've been dealing with lots of ER things. He's better now, though.)
Sarge [AC 21; HP 61/61] (Kathy) Friday March 29th, 2019 10:42:19 PM
Sarge shrugs. "Or we could just make sure they're too busy bleeding to do much of anything else," she says. "But sure, kid, if you want to light your smoke sticks, go ahead. Just don't get caught over there, okay? You'll be a long way from support."
Plans Are Smokey (DM SteveK) Sunday March 31st, 2019 10:16:14 AM
Wilford’s voices stop talking and he proposes a plan modification that Hmerrin, Sarge, and Desdichado agree with.
So the ball for action is in Wilford’s corner.
Toston Lotor(Hugh Crosmun) [HP: 67/67; AC:23/20/21- CMD 26 d20+16=23 ; d20+16=26 ; Sunday March 31st, 2019 9:37:46 PM
Toston says, "Let me get into position to hit the most sleeping orcs with my 30 foot cone of fire as I can. Also steer clear of my 30 foot cone of fire. I then intend to follow up with a closer 15 foot cone of fire from burning hands."
Toston casts Toros Taur Try on himself opting for the Liontaur version and then casts Mage Armor and Shield if time permits.
Assuming he can buff he then sneaks as silently as possible to get into position to open up on the orcs with his 30 foot cone of flame. (Stealth 23)
(Perception: 26)
Active Effects: Toros Try Taur : 10 minutes (- elapsed; OOC: DM how much time has elapsed?) +1 stealth / acrobatics Mage Armor - 5 hours (- elapsed time; OOC: DM how much time has elpased?) +4 AC Shield - 5 minutes (- elapsed time; OOC: DM how much time has elapsed?) +4 shield to AC; immunity magic missile
Wilford Grimly (HP:47/47; AC: 19; Touch: 12; Flat: 16; CMD: 18) d20+10=18 ; Monday April 1st, 2019 9:15:46 AM
"Ok, I will strike two smoke sticks and toss them at whatever is close on the opposite side. Wait a few till they begin to stir and react then hit them." Wil than stealthily moves through the trees to a location near the closest large mounds. He then light two smoke sticks and prepares to throw them next round. -- Orisons: Detect Magic x1, Resistance: x2 Light: 1 Granted Powers D: Resistant Touch - D: Touch of Good - Lv1: Protection from Evil/Chaos..etc, Entropic Shield, Shield of Faith - D: Sanctuary Lv2: Spiritual Weapon, Resist Energy, Consecrate, D: Shield Another (if needed - Cure moderate Wounds) Lv3: Magic Vestment, Magic Circle against... - D: Protection from Energy
-- Channel energy 3d6
Gaffer (Courtney HP: 78/78 AC:25(21)(T:16/FF:15) CMD:20 WS 3/3 LL 3/9) Monday April 1st, 2019 9:16:33 AM
Gaffer casts Barkskin on himself once more and gestures to the others that he is ready. So long as he can see each of the small lumps from where he is, he would rather keep his distance.
"I'll call down lightning as your breath hits, let's give them a proper wake up call." He whispers to the others.
When Toston sets things off, Gaffer uses his Lightning Lord feature to call a bolt of lightning on each Orc.
*****Active Effects***** Barkskin - 89 Minutes - +4 AC
Desdichado(Ryan Baker) [HP: 93/93; AC:20/10/20 - CMD 23] Monday April 1st, 2019 1:31:09 PM
Desdichado pulls out his axe and calls out to Domi for his help in the coming fight. "Domi, I ask you now to help us as we battle these bandits who would oppress those using this river."
--------------- Active effects Divine Bond: Holy (2d6 vs evil)
Sarge [AC 21; HP 61/61] (Kathy) Monday April 1st, 2019 4:42:09 PM
"Okay, Dez, mind your head," Sarge says, and casts Enlarge Person on Desdichado.
Hmerrin(HP 100/100 AC:26 T:15 FF:22 CMD:26) Monday April 1st, 2019 7:58:44 PM
Hmerrin pulls out both axes, and waits for the pyrotechnics to start.
Toston Lotor(Hugh Crosmun) [HP: 67/67; AC:31/20/29- CMD 26 6d6=17 ; Monday April 1st, 2019 10:17:35 PM
With everyone in agreement Toston gets into position and then lets loose with his fire breathe.
(17 fire damage; Reflex DC 16 for half damage)
Gaffer (Courtney HP: 78/78 AC:25(21)(T:16/FF:15) CMD:20 WS 3/3 LL 3/9) 3d6=17 ; 3d6=11 ; 3d6=10 ; 3d6=11 ; 3d6=11 ; 3d6=12 ; Tuesday April 2nd, 2019 6:56:39 AM
At the same moment Gaffer calls down 6bolts of lightning, one for each Orc. (17,11,10,11,11,12 electricity damage. Reflex DC 18 for half)
Night Attack! (DM SteveK) d20=20 ; d20=15 ; d20=9 ; d20=10 ; d20+12=23 ; d20+8=26 ; d20+8=20 ; d20+8=23 ; d20+8=20 ; d20+4=21 ; d20+4=9 ; d20+9=11 ; d20+9=14 ; 3d6=10 ; d20+13=20 ; d20+13=25 ; d8+2=7 ; Tuesday April 2nd, 2019 11:45:56 AM
Toston casts Toros Taur Try: Liontaur and Mage Armor and Shield. The gnome then attempts to sneak forward but is unlucky: one of the Medium shapes must have been looking right at him, and Orcs have Darkvision! [b]"We are attacked! It's the adventurers!", Medium Figure G shouts. Toston isn't within 30' of the sleeping figures who are sitting up around the fire, but IS within 30 feet of the two sentries and the Large lump. The gnome lets loose with his fire breath! Both sentries dodge, but the Large lump screams and stands; it is a hippogryph!
Wilford also tries a sneak (DM rolled 23), first 5 feet around the last tree which is the location within the trees to the closest large mound, then across the plain while Toston was casting. He is out in the open and no manner of stealth protects the flare of sparks or beginnings of billows of smoke!
Gaffer casts Barkskin on himself once more and Readies his Lightining Lord to have an electrical strike on all eight known Medium targets. (ooc: Weather domain and 'Lightning Lord' feature not annotated on Gaffer's PC Sheet. Please update) (3d6 damage Reflex DC 18). When the shout and flames erupt, the druid isn't far behind, with Lightning striking the Orcs! The druid finds two of the assumed orcs were only sleeping pads, and the smell of ozone adds to the fray.
Desdichado pulls out his axe and calls out to Domi for his help in the coming fight. "Domi, I ask you now to help us as we battle these bandits who would oppress those using this river."
Sarge casts Enlarge Person on Desdichado.
Hmerrin pulls out both axes, and waits for the pyrotechnics to start. They do.
...............
Four orcs roll away from the fire and scramble to their feet, weapons in hand.
Two griffins and four Hippogryphs screech and mantle their way to their own feet.
The two orcs who were the sentries split apart. The first blocks the direct path from the latrine-trees to the fire and shoots an arrow point-blank at Toston, missing!
The second moves to his right and is lost into the night. Darkvision PCs only Highlight to display spoiler: { Sarge can see the second orc take aim and skewer Wilford with an arrow!} Wilford Highlight to display spoiler: { Wil is shot with an arrow for 7 damage!}
........... Orc a 10 dam Orc b 10 dam Orc c 5 dam Orc d 10 dam Orc e - empty sleep rolls Orc f - empty sleep rolls Orc g 13 dam Orc h 13 dam
Wilford Grimly (HP:44/51; AC: 19; Touch: 12; Flat: 16; CMD: 20) Tuesday April 2nd, 2019 3:42:22 PM
"You have an arrow in your leg." Ivan says. "I can't see your smile," Wil snapped quietly. "...but I know you're joking." Wil grumbled and threw the pair of smoke sticks near a pair of the closest enemy. He lit another and tossed it between him and the enemy to give him some cover. "I hope I can draw some of them over here." He says. "It's a good way to seperate the crowd."
Desdichado(Ryan Baker) [HP: 93/93; AC:20/10/20 - CMD 23] Tuesday April 2nd, 2019 6:07:08 PM
(OOC: Does Dez have a clear path to the orcs, or are the creatures in the way? The orcs would be Dez's primary target.)
"Well, no sense in waiting," says Dez to Hmerrin and Sarge. "Charge?"
Dez charges toward the nearest orc.
--------------- Active effects Divine Bond: Holy (2d6 vs evil)
Hmerrin(HP 100/100 AC:25 T:14 FF:20 CMD:26) d20+17=18 ; Tuesday April 2nd, 2019 6:57:23 PM
"Yup", Hmerrin responds. "And we got a volunteer."
The fighter explodes out of the latrine trees, quickly closing the gap on the lone guard who chose to block their path, as well as conveniently backlighting himself with the fire.
Upon reaching the fellow, he swings hard....really hard. Perhaps, a bit too hard.
--- Charge orc in the path. Power Attack Atk - NAT 1. sigh.
Desdichado(Ryan Baker) [HP: 93/93; AC:20/10/20 - CMD 23] d20+16=24 ; 3d6+6=14 ; 2d6=3 ; Tuesday April 2nd, 2019 8:02:09 PM
(OOC: Rolling for Large Dez's charge attack and damage: 3d6 axe from Enlarge Person; 2d6 assuming evil Orc ;-) : 17 damage)
Toston Lotor(Hugh Crosmun) [HP: 67/67; AC:31/20/29- CMD 26 d20+9=19 ; d8+4=6 ; d20+9=11 ; d8+4=11 ; d20+4=6 ; d20+10=16 ; d8+4=10 ; Tuesday April 2nd, 2019 10:29:52 PM
Toston uses a swift action to activate arcane strike, charging his attacks with a portion of his arcane power.
If the orc that fired at Toston is within 5 feet of the gnome, Toston takes a 5 foot step and flurries at the orc with his fist. Otherwise he moves and makes a single attack action (also with his fist) (OOC: any idea when we will get a map?)
If flurry: 19 vs AC; 6 damage 11 vs AC; 11 damage if hits 6 vs AC; miss
If normal attack 16 vs AC; 10 damage
Active Effects: Arcane Strike: +2 damage on attacks, considered magic Toros Try Taur : 10 minutes (- elapsed; OOC: DM how much time has elapsed?) +1 stealth / acrobatics Mage Armor - 5 hours (- elapsed time; OOC: DM how much time has elpased?) +4 AC Shield - 5 minutes (- elapsed time; OOC: DM how much time has elapsed?) +4 shield to AC; immunity magic missile
Sarge [AC 21; HP 61/61] (Kathy) 3d8=11 ; Tuesday April 2nd, 2019 10:49:58 PM
"Whoo! Now it's a party!" Sarge exclaims. She draws her hammer, but doesn't use it yet.
Instead, she drops a Holy Smite where she thinks it'll do the most good.
Evil creatures in the area of the spell take 11 damage and are blinded. Unless they make a Will save, in which case they take 5 damage and are not blinded.
Neutral creatures in the area of the spell take 5 damage and are not blinded. Unless they make a Will save, in which case they take 2 damage and are also not blinded.
Gaffer (Courtney HP: 78/78 AC:25(21)(T:16/FF:15) CMD:20 WS 3/3 LL 3/9) 9d6=30 ; Wednesday April 3rd, 2019 7:31:11 AM
"This is terribly poor lighting, let me add to the fire" Gaffer attempts a quip as adrenaline rushes through him from the fight.
He casts Flamestrike anywhere he thinks it will hit at least two Orcs and no allies. He is unconcerned about hitting the flying beasts, hoping they will scatter if their masters are down.
Damage: 15 fire, 15 divine - Reflex 18 for half.
*****Active Effects***** Barkskin - 89 Minutes - +4 AC
Night Attack! Round 2(DM SteveK) d20+4=6 ; d20+4=24 ; d20+2=22 ; d20+2=7 ; d20+2=18 ; d20+2=12 ; d20+13=14 ; d20+15=16 ; d4=3 ; d20+8=26 ; d20+7=21 ; d20+7=20 ; d6+3=5 ; d6+3=5 ; d6+3=8 ; d20+4=17 ; d20+4=24 ; d20+4=5 ; d4+2=5 ; Wednesday April 3rd, 2019 8:07:28 AM
Wilford has his voices point out the obvious. The hero tosses his smoke sticks at the Hippogryph (ooc: need to roll to hit the space he’s aiming for; -4 for non-standard object), then lights another and drops it at his feet for some concealment from Darkvision in the dark.
Desdichado looks at Hmerrin and Sarge. "Charge?" Based on their actions, charge it is. The Enlarged Dez charges the lone orc and wounds him bad. The paladin does get a surprise: this Orc isn’t evil!
Hmerrin charges along with Dez, but his powerful swing does nothing but stir the air around the Orc’s goatee.
Toston swiftly activates arcane strike, and slides up to the Orc next to Dez . In a flurry of attacks only fir first connects, but is enough to bring it down, feebly moaning on the grass.
Sarge exclaims that it’s a party! She draws her hammer, but drops a Holy Smite centered on the campfire which strikes 4 Orcs! The cleric also gauges the damage, concluding these Orcs aren’t evil!
............... One Orc shouts (speak Orcish Highlight to display spoiler: { Scatter! “MrK and I will hold them off!”}, draws a curved elven blade, and jumps forward, but not fast enough to sidestep an opportunity for Desdichado. (ooC: Dez gets a free attack of opportunity AAO). The Orc’s swing also lacks finesse. (ooc: LOL! Two nat 1s in a row beats Hmerrin’s nat 1!)
The three remaining orcs, each move in a different direction; south, west, and north. Their orcish cries call three Hippogryphs and one Griffin which also move after the orcs. All of them are now lost to sight in the darkness (though they are making plenty of noise with shouting, screeching, and mantling of wings).
One Griffin edges over to his Orc and also attacks Dez! The brassy smell of Griffin feathers combines with Dez’ blood as beak and two claws rake the Paladin! (Dez takes 5+5+8= 18 dam)
The wounded Hippogryph screams, edges over to the Orc, and attacks Hmerrin! Only one hoof strikes the young fighter: that’s gonna leave a bruise! (Hmerrin takes 5 dam)
The final Orc that shot Wilford is somewhere in the darkness and smoke. It doesn’t attack, so there is no indication of where it is.
……… (OOC: any idea when we will get a map?) (DM: LOL! Not this battle. Let's use ingenuity and imagination instead. :-))
Hmerrin, Toston, and Large Dez are face-to-face with a HIppogryph, Orc, and Griffin respectively.
Sarge and Gaffer are in the latrine tree line 40’ from the battle line.
Wilford is off to the left of the battleline with three smoke sticks in various places making it hard to see anything on that flank.
It is still dark.
........... Orc a - 15 dam; running Orc b - 12 dam Orc c - 2 dam; running Orc d - 15 dam; running Orc e - empty sleep rolls Orc f - empty sleep rolls Orc g - Down Orc h - 13 dam; somewhere
The young fighter pivots and unleashes a flurry of blows upon the hippogryph.
-- Full attack, I assume on Hippo 4.
Btax 1 hits ac 26 for 13 hp damage Hdax 1 hits ac 28 for 15 hp damage Btax 2 hits ac 22 for 12 hp damage Hdax 2 hits ac 22 for 15 hp damage
Desdichado(Ryan Baker) [HP: 89/93; AC:20/10/20 - CMD 23] d20+15=28 ; 3d6+6=15 ; 4d6=13 ; d20+15=24 ; 3d6+6=20 ; d20+10=16 ; 3d6+6=24 ; Wednesday April 3rd, 2019 8:34:24 PM
Desdichado takes a swing at the orc diving past him, hitting him as he passes.
He feels a huge pain in his side as the Griffon tears into him. Reaching for divine aid, he feels a cooling rush travel through him. Dez turns to the Griffon that attacked him. “Alright, kitty – or whatever you are – that wasn’t very nice!,” he says as he swings the large axe at the beast.
----- AOO hits for 15 hp damage. Lay on Hands (swift action heal for 13 hp) Full attack, Griffon 1st attack hits AC 24 for 20 hp damage 2nd attack hits AC 16 for 24 hp damage
--------------- Active effects Divine Bond: Holy (2d6 vs evil) Enlarge Person
Wilford Grimly (HP:44/51; AC: 19; Touch: 12; Flat: 16; CMD: 20) Wednesday April 3rd, 2019 9:48:35 PM
Wil casts Shield of Faith on the nearest friendly combatant. Attempting to approach from behind and trying to avoid any AOO. (This spell creates a shimmering, magical field around the target that averts and deflects attacks. The spell grants the subject a +2 deflection bonus to AC, with an additional +1)
Orisons: Detect Magic x1, Resistance: x2 Light: 1 Granted Powers D: Resistant Touch - D: Touch of Good - Lv1: Protection from Evil/Chaos..etc, Entropic Shield, Shield of Faith - used - D: Sanctuary Lv2: Spiritual Weapon, Resist Energy, Consecrate, D: Shield Another (if needed - Cure moderate Wounds) Lv3: Magic Vestment, Magic Circle against... - D: Protection from Energy
-- Channel energy 3d6
Toston Lotor(Hugh Crosmun) [HP: 67/67; AC:31/20/29- CMD 26 d20+9=15 ; d20+9=14 ; d20+4=15 ; d8+4=11 ; d8+4=8 ; d8+4=12 ; Wednesday April 3rd, 2019 10:16:58 PM
Toston swiftly charges his fists with magic and then flurries at the orc that is in his face now with his fists.
(15 vs AC;11 if hits) (14 vs AC;8 if hits) (15 vs AC;12 if hits)
"Toston cries out, "Normally I'm against splitting the party but we really can't let those mounts get away. I'm a little busy at the moment but can someone else chase after those fleeing?"
Arcane Strike: +2 damage on attacks, considered magic Toros Try Taur : 10 minutes (- elapsed; OOC: DM how much time has elapsed?) +1 stealth / acrobatics Mage Armor - 5 hours (- elapsed time; OOC: DM how much time has elpased?) +4 AC Shield - 5 minutes (- elapsed time; OOC: DM how much time has elapsed?) +4 shield to AC; immunity magic missile
Sarge [AC 21; HP 61/61] (Kathy) d20+13=30 ; d8=2 ; Wednesday April 3rd, 2019 10:58:40 PM
Sarge moves toward the battle [20 feet]. She casts Spiritual Weapon, targeting one of the fleeing hippogriffs. Let's say hippogriff #1.
The glowing hammer hits AC 30 for 4 damage.
Gaffer (Courtney HP: 78/78 AC:25(21)(T:16/FF:15) CMD:20 WS 1/3 LL 3/9) d20+16=28 ; Thursday April 4th, 2019 5:58:09 AM
[I think my last post was missed, not sure if it changes much]
Seeing the Orcs split apart, Gaffer turns himself into a Hawk once more, taking to the sky, chasing after one of the Orc/Griffin pairs, and hoping his improved vision will give him a chance of spotting them. (Perception: 28)
*****Active Effects***** Barkskin - 89 Minutes - +4 AC
Night Attack! Round 2(DM SteveK) d20+8=24 ; d20+8=19 ; d20+8=18 ; d20+13=32 ; d20+8=18 ; d20+7=19 ; d20+7=24 ; d6+3=6 ; d20+1=20 ; d20+1=10 ; Thursday April 4th, 2019 8:25:20 AM
(Round 2: Sorry Courtney! I copy to Word, do my post, then copy back. My fault that I didn’t look to see if you posted in the ‘between’ time. Corrected below!)
"This is terribly poor lighting, let me add to the fire" Gaffer quips, and casts Flamestrike that catches three Orcs. All three dodge and two continue to run off, but one staggers, then falls into the blackened grass.
The hippogryph that was running off with that Orc immediately turns around and stands over the fallen green and blistered body, mantling at the heroes.
............... (Round 3)
Hmerrin grumbles in annoyance at his initial poor showing. The young fighter makes up for it by downing the hippogryph in two blows which screams and collapses, and successfully wounding the Orc with both of his secondary attacks!
Desdichado takes full opportunity in wounding the Orc, then concentrates on the Griffin, striking once. The second blow is deflected by some fluffed up feathers.
Wilford wants to cast Entropic Shield on one of his friends, but he has two problems. The first is Entropic Shield can only be cast on the person casting the spell. The second is Wilford is surrounded by the smoke he laid at his feet: this is concealing him from attack, but also concealing everyone else from his sight! Ivan whispers in his head; “I’m your friend, and so are you.” With that, Wilford casts the Entropic Shield on himself!
Toston swiftly charges his fists with magic and then flurries at the orc that is in his face now with his fists, missing all three times! He suggests someone chase after the six known creatures fleeing in different directions.
Sarge moves toward the battle, casts Spiritual Weapon, but is unable to target any fleeing figure; they are out of range of the firelight and her Darkvision. Instead, the glowing hammer hits the fighting Griffin.
Gaffer turns into a Hawk and takes to the sky, flying north after a fleeing Orc. His hopes that the Hawk’s low light vision can find a target are dashed. Even with being able to see twice as far as a human, GafferHawk can only see 40 feet into the darkness before everything is lost in the blackness of Kerracles. What he is able to find out is there isn’t an Orc or flying creature within 100’ of the battle to the north (fly 60’, see 40’)
............... The lone Orc looks pretty badly wounded, but is game enough to take a step back and begin weaving his elven blade in a defensive pattern. “I call challenge! Fight one on one!”
His Griffin isn’t interested in the pleasantries of ‘challenge’. It mantles, screeching, and attacks Dez to rend him to bloody bits. This time, it is only a claw that causes a scrape. (Dez takes 5 damage)
The one Hippogryph still in the light of the campfire continues to mantle protectively over the fallen Orc, ready to attack the first creature who tries to get near.
The other Griffin, two Hippogryphs, and three Orcs are somewhere in the darkness. The noise has died down out there, indicating they are either being quiet or too far out of range to hear without straining over the sounds of immediate battle.
……… Hmerrin, Toston, and Large Dez are face-to-face with an Orc and Griffin.
By the fire is a downed orc with a Hippogryph guarding it.
Sarge is in the open 20’ behind the battle line.
GafferHawk is 60’ north of the battle line, flying 20’ above the ground.
Wilford is off to the left of the battleline with three smoke sticks in various places covering himself and that flank with smoke that obscures even Darkvision.
It is still dark, though maybe just the beginnings of purple to the east.
........... Orc b - 54 dam; total defense AC 28 Orc d – Down, by fire Orc g – Down, by battleline Griffin 3 – 24 dam; attacking AC 17 Hippo 5– 0 dam; standing over Orc d
Orc a - 30 dam; somewhere Orc c - 17 dam; somewhere Orc h - 13 dam; somewhere
Hmerrin(HP 95/100 AC:27 T:16 FF:22 CMD:26) d20+16=35 ; d8+10=14 ; d20+15=23 ; d6+9=14 ; d20+11=29 ; d8+10=13 ; d20+10=28 ; d6+9=10 ; Thursday April 4th, 2019 6:22:35 PM
"Stay together!" Hmerrin calls after Toston. "We just need to take the fight out of them, not wipe 'em out."
"Hit the griffin."
The young fighter proceeds to follow his own advice, hacking at the griffin repeatedly. He does not attack the orc.
Once the griffin is down, he turns to the orc.
"I don't think so. You forfeit any challenge with your whole 'Give us gold or we drop rocks on you' bit. Now, in a few seconds, your sword is gonna be on the ground. We can do that the easy way, or we can do that the hard way. You choose."
-- Full attack on Griffin
Btax 1 hits ac 35 for 14 hp damage Hdax 1 hits ac 23 for 14 hp damage Btax 2 hits ac 29 for 13 hp damage Hdax 2 hits ac 28 for 10 hp damage
Desdichado(Ryan Baker) [HP: 84/93; AC:20/10/20 - CMD 23] d20+15=16 ; d20+15=19 ; Thursday April 4th, 2019 6:36:59 PM
Seeing that the griffin is down, Dez turns and looks down at the orc. “See me personally, I like a challenge. Nice and honorable. But my new friend here as a very good point. So, your move – get your people and animals to stand down or face justice for your banditry.”
(OOC: If the orc attacks, casts a spell, etc. or tries to run, Dez does a full attack; ack - or would if he could hit anything. Otherwise, he waits for the orc’s response.) -- Attack 1: (nat 1) Attack 2 hits 19 AC
--------------- Active effects Divine Bond: Holy (2d6 vs evil) Enlarge Person
Gaffer (Courtney HP: 78/78 AC:25(21)(T:16/FF:15) CMD:20 WS 1/3 LL 3/9) d20+16=17 ; Thursday April 4th, 2019 7:20:07 PM
Gaffer thinks better of parting too far from the group and circles back around, flying around the edge of the camp sight, scanning for the missing foes. (Perception: 17)
*****Active Effects***** Barkskin - 88 Minutes - +4 AC
Toston Lotor(Hugh Crosmun) [HP: 67/67; AC:31/20/29- CMD 26 d20+10=18 ; 4d6+4=18 ; Thursday April 4th, 2019 8:20:05 PM
Toston says, "Dez and Hmerrin both have points. I normally wouldn't mind single combat either, especially when we use the same weapon." Toston indicates the curve blade in a scabbard he carries.
"However we wouldn't even be fighting you right now if you hadn't decided to take to banditry on the river. Now, how about you go somewhere else and stop harassing the kindly crews traveling between Dirt City and Emerald City?"
Toston readies to hit the orc with scorching ray should he do anything hostile (if needed 18 vs AC; 18 fire damage)
Sarge [AC 21; HP 61/61] (Kathy) Thursday April 4th, 2019 11:40:43 PM
If the griffin does indeed go down, Sarge does not give her Spiritual Weapon a new target, so it returns to her. She strides up to the battle line.
"You boys have good and loyal mounts," she says, jerking her head toward the hippogriff protecting the downed orc. "I'm sure you can find something better to do with them than rob people. If you give up now, and promise to stop the banditry, I can heal the injured."
Pre-Dawn Negotiations (DM SteveK) Friday April 5th, 2019 9:46:52 AM
Wilford calls to see if talking is now an option.
Hmerrin says he’s gonna down the Griffin, and he does in grand style, leaving it a bleeding mess on the ground.
Dez, Sarge, and Toston all echo Wilford.
Gaffer keeps close to the fire, doing a sweep around the battlefield, and confirming there are no Orcs or flying beasts within his sight. ....
The lone, battered Orc, takes another step back, delays a couple heartbeats, and then sighs and drops his weapon. “You beat Garrl, but not kill. You OK.”
In the ensuing interrogaton, the Tide learns the Griffin Tribe normally sends out groups to collect what they can for the Tribe’s survival, “Sandwich not a big place and lots of competition.” River tolls were an easy way to do that. “We didn’t attack, not rob, just toll”, he complains. “Promise won’t do again.”
Wilford Grimly (HP:44/51; AC: 19; Touch: 12; Flat: 16; CMD: 20) Friday April 5th, 2019 11:54:28 AM
Wilford navigates from the smoke and approaches the remaining Orc with his hands up. "Garrl, you are forgiven. Can you assist us in our trip down the river, it will go a long way and we can help you gain a better way to survive out here. Maybe we can connect you to a contact in Dirt City."
Desdichado(Ryan Baker) [HP: 84/93; AC:20/10/20 - CMD 23] Friday April 5th, 2019 12:47:29 PM
Desdichado relaxes his stance.
"Well Garrl, for my part, I'm sorry it came to violence between us." He looks around. "This certainly looks like a hard place to survive in. What are the main things you need - food, anything else? Do you have things you can trade for with the towns nearby? Like Wil said - maybe we can help you set up with some traders to come by regularly?"
Sarge [AC 21; HP 61/61] (Kathy) d6=6 ; d6=5 ; d6=4 ; d6=2 ; Friday April 5th, 2019 9:27:31 PM
Sarge gathers everyone she can--friends and former foes--and channels energy.
Everybody heals 17.
"Y'know," she says. "I'll bet there are people in human towns who would pay to ride on a hippogriff. If your flying friends are amenable."
Hmerrin(HP 100/100 AC:26 T:15 FF:22 CMD:26) Saturday April 6th, 2019 9:29:11 AM
Hmerrin accepts the healing from Sarge with "Thanks", and surveys the field. Rummaging through the orc's gear while everyone else makes nice is probably bad form, so the lad wordlessly waits out the pleasantries.
At some point, he'll speak up.
"OK. So we're done here. Let's go catch a boat."
Should everyone be amenable, he heads back to the skiffs.
Gaffer (Courtney HP: 78/78 AC:25(21)(T:16/FF:15) CMD:20 WS 1/3 LL 3/9) Saturday April 6th, 2019 11:38:05 AM
Relaxed after his sweep, Gaffer perches down amongst the others. Keeping his distance from the remaining beast.
He keeps his form as it sounds like more travelling is on the table, he tries to nod visibly to show his agreement with the parties actions.
Toston Lotor(Hugh Crosmun) [HP: 67/67; AC:31/20/29- CMD 26 Sunday April 7th, 2019 10:31:39 PM
Toston says, "Well you are lucky that the adventurers that called your bluff and not someone else. Anywho, you folks are the Griffin Tribe of Orcs yes? You don't happen to know anything about the a tribe of orcs whose totem is the unicorn do you?"
And at Dawn (DM SteveK) Monday April 8th, 2019 10:10:14 AM
With GafferHawk on lookout, and Hmerrin, Desdichado, and Wilford providing suggestions to Garrl the GriffinTribenOrc, Sarge offers healing. Garrl is able to calm down the Hippogryph, and retrieve the downed Orc, and after healing, there are three Orcs and on Hippogryph standing with the Tide under a sky going from purple to pink to orange.
The Orcs nod at the praise of their mounts. “Like partners, yes? Other tribes too love-self to see how partner can be good thing.” They don’t seem as impressed with vague connections in Dirt City, but “Hippogryph Rides?” That sparks some conversation. “And Dirties would pay to just do a fly around the city?” “Soft work.” Looks like they will need to discuss more before making a decision, but the seed is planted.
Toston’s words, however, may bring some good news to the Tide. Garrl nods. “Yes, we are Griffin Tribe, only orcs in Izen with Griffin partners. Other Orcs only want destroy and would have attacked for pleasure of seeing boat sink. Yes, we know of Unicorn Tribe. They live in Culverwood, sometimes come out to trade if you have lots of goods and know how to attract attention.”
“You CAN gain their attention by visiting the Bight and then attracting their interest. Bards and peddlers do with music and bell-laden carts of merchandise. You will need a knowledgable guide. Not Garrl, Garrl not Elder. Maybe from Emerald Kingsom or Tears of the Wood Inn.”
Wilford Grimly (HP:44/51; AC: 19; Touch: 12; Flat: 16; CMD: 20) Monday April 8th, 2019 1:49:12 PM
"Excellent information Garrl," Wil says with a smile. "I'm so glad we could help you." "Anymore tolls off the river during our remaining trip? How long do you think our trip will take, if undisturbed?"
Hmerrin(HP 100/100 AC:26 T:15 FF:22 CMD:26) Monday April 8th, 2019 7:47:19 PM
Hmerrin impatiently waits out the litany of questions.
Though he has to admit, Toston picked up some valuable info with that last round.
When the group is ready to go, he accompanies them back to the skiffs.
Toston Lotor(Hugh Crosmun) [HP: 67/67; AC:31/20/29- CMD 26 Monday April 8th, 2019 10:09:14 PM
Toston gives Garrl 10 gold pieces in exchange for the knowledge passed on. "Thank you Garrl. We will definitely follow your advice with respect to seeking out the unicorn tribe. You have been most helpful."
(OOC: I have deducted it from my sheet)
Desdichado(Ryan) [HP: 93/93; AC:20/10/20 - CMD 23] Monday April 8th, 2019 11:03:14 PM
Seeing that it looks like things are wrapping up, Desdichado nods to Garrl and walks back to the skiff with the others.
Sarge [AC 21; HP 61/61] (Kathy) Tuesday April 9th, 2019 1:14:57 AM
Sarge listens to Garrl's explanation with a puzzled expression. This stuff is clearly important to her new companions, but Sarge can't make head or tail of it.
"Right. Well, that's sorted, then," she says. "We'd better get back to the boat. Thank you, Garrl and Griffin Tribe."
Gaffer (Courtney HP: 78/78 AC:25(21)(T:16/FF:15) CMD:20 WS 1/3 LL 3/9) Tuesday April 9th, 2019 4:42:07 AM
"Caww" Gaffer rises back to the air and flies with the group over to the skiff. Feeling glad that they seem to have resolved the situation without much issue.
The prospect of returning to Culverwoods is an exciting one. Though it hasn't been that long since he left, a lot has happened. He shakes his Hawks head before getting too distracted. Those are thoughts for after getting past the gauntlet of Orc shakedowns.
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