HOT HOT HOT - DM Steve K Friday September 8th, 2023 7:27:47 AM
In the Catacombs, Djali wakes from her daydream of dancing with Gnene Kellyhurst, and gives Gaffer an updated receipt. (ooc: sorry, Courtney, please go to Catacombs. Consider all this was done and Gaffer is back with the team on time.) Even if the druid has some other alterations he needs, it doesn't take any more time and the Tide is ready to go.
They have decided for Nira to Greater Teleport all of them to the Rattledam Docks. Her expertise is impeccable, the spell is un-missable...
.......
The heroes arrive in the Sargrass and immediately notice three things. The first is they are in a 50 foot oval space of very short grasses with a single twisted but sturdy-looking tree. The second is that surrounding them in every direction is grass; green, yellow, purple, gold and silver: growing taller the further from the tree until it blocks the view: 10, 20, even 30 feet tall! And the third is the heat: the sun beats down, quickly making metal too hot to touch, parching throats, and drying sweat as soon as it forms. The heroes are going to need protection quickly!
Know Arcane DC 16 Highlight to display spoiler: {Greater Teleport can't miss, so what happened!!!} ........... 2:01
Desdichado (Ryan) [HP:211/211; AC:34/15/32 - CMD 36] Friday September 8th, 2023 2:44:44 PM
Desdichado begins protecting everyone he can from the heat with Endure Elements. He recalls that Nira has her own method of maintaining temperature, but he's concerned that still leaves one person exposed.
"So, uh, this is a dock, um, on land? Did the water go away or something?" asks Desdichado.
(Endure Elements x4)
Ramirez (BrianZ) AC32/20/25 HP 150/150 CMD32 Friday September 8th, 2023 9:03:26 PM We'll need to look around. Can someone fly or should we start climbing the tree?
OOC- do we have enough endure elements, I thought we were covered last time we used it.
Hmerrin (MikeK)(HP 217/217 AC:32 T:19 FF:28 CMD:41) Saturday September 9th, 2023 12:27:43 PM
Hmerrin turns a full circle, sweat already building. "No river, no boats...heck, no city."
The fighter pulls the Carpet of Flying out of his bag of holding and steps on. He, and anybody else who wants to come aboard, rises above the crazy colored grass to get a look around.
If there are not enough Endure Elements spells, Hmerrin will go without, figuring he's got the best chance to combat the heat.
RobC - Nira Wynvyre -- AC 29/15/25 -- CMD 24 -- HP 138/138 -- DarkVision/ArcaneSight/SeeInvis Saturday September 9th, 2023 10:03:54 PM "Well the spell definitely had us arrive on target. Wait, didn't Flea say that there were 'grass ships'? Maybe we really are at the docks?" She tries to match this up with the description of the docks that Ruby provided, as well as the map to see whether it shows there should be a body of water here.
Des takes care of most of the Endure Elements spells, Nira is protected by her Roses spell, which leaves Hmerrin. Nira addresses that by casting her only Endure Elements on the fighter. "Ok, that should cover us all"
----------- Knowl Arcane check Autopass Cast Endure Elements on Hmerrin
Gaffer - Courtney - HP: 164/164 AC: 37(T:21/FF:30) CMD:39) d20+29=41 ; Sunday September 10th, 2023 2:59:34 PM
Gaffer is moments behind on offering it up but "I've a few Endure Elements prepared... Ah well, best we stay close together.
Seeing as there is plenty of space, he transforms into a Huge Air Elemental and flies up alongside the carpet. He looks at their surroundings for any sign of sentient life while casting an extended Barkskin on himself as well.
----- Perception: 41
----- Barkskin: +5 AC, 6 Hours
Danko Pureheart (Yves) -- AC 29 (33) -- CMD 36 -- HP 132/132 d20+20=25 ; Monday September 11th, 2023 6:27:42 AM
Danko sprouts his dragon wings, waits to be protected by an endure element spell, and takes to the skies. While taking a look around, he makes a mental note.
{ So, my next wand will be an endure element want I suppose....}
------------ Perception check--- 25
============= Mage armor - extended endure element
Looking Around (and its HOT!) - DM Steve K Monday September 11th, 2023 9:52:12 AM
The Tide realize that they still have the Endure Elements and Rose’s Temperature Control that they cast and had on when they were in Vyrnix’s Lair. Both spells last for 24 hours and keeps the person comfortable at 140F (60C). The heroes aren’t comfortable but are not getting damaged because of the heat, either. This realization gives the team some knowledge:
1. The spells are already cast and removed. They can’t cast them again for 24 hours.
2. The Rose’s Temp and Endure Elements will end 2 hours BEFORE the Gate will move.
3. The actual air temp here is probably around 160F (71C)
Sweating, Hmerrin pulls the Carpet of Flying out of his bag of holding and steps on to look around. Gaffer likewise takes to the air as a Huge Air Elemental (ooc: 2nd use of Wildshape) and casts Barkskin on himself. Danko sprouts his dragon wings and takes to the sky. The three heroes are able to telepathically relay what they see to Nira, Desdichado, and Ramirez.
For as far as they can see, there is the Grass rustling, chiming, and singing in the wind. The wind! It is either non-existent, light, moderate, or strong, with severe bursts up to 50 mph. All Flight Skill Checks have a -5 due to the sudden changes of wind and severity. (Hover DC20)
The heroes can see other stunted trees, one here, one a couple miles distant, a couple more patches of low ‘Grass further out. It could be considered strange that every patch that has a stunted tree like where the Tide is … the patch is also a near perfect circle.
Far, far in the distance and stretching the entire horizon to the south, they can see what looks like an enormous mountain range, glittering in the unforgiving sun. Gaffer can just make out what looks like a pass through the mountains, maybe south-south east.
What they can’t see is water. Of any kind. Anywhere. ……………….
And there is some good news.
A quarter mile to the south, the heroes above the ‘Grasses can spot a low Dome nearly 1000’ across. At one end of this dome are several docks that jut out into the Grasses, and what looks like sailing ships tied up at the docks, ranging from small 20 footers to a giant, three-masted Carrack. From this distance, the heroes can see there are figures on the decks of ships, on the docks, and what looks like one team of figures on the Dome itself.
........... 2:02 (endure elements/rose's ends at 22:00)
a. HOT – 160F. Endure elements = uncomfortable. b. Windy – all flying skill checks are -5 and missile weapon attacks are -2
Hmerrin (MikeK)(HP 217/217 AC:32 T:19 FF:28 CMD:41) d20+11=29 ; Monday September 11th, 2023 6:55:47 PM
Getting caught by the various wind changes, Hmerrin is very glad the Carpet hovers on its own. A carpet of flying can hover without making a Fly skill check and gives a +5 bonus to other Fly checks.
The Endure Elements spell ending before the Gate disappears falls under "Worry About It Later." The fighter proceeds to do just that.
Landing back down, he picks up whoever wants a ride. "To the boats then," he remarks.
Hmerrin carefully takes off and directs the Carpet towards the boats, trying to stay down near grass level where he hopes the wind gusts will be less dramatic. [Fly 29]
----------- In Effect Endure Elements
Desdichado (Ryan) [HP:211/211; AC:34/15/32 - CMD 36] Monday September 11th, 2023 7:18:46 PM
Desdichado hops on the carpet. He hopes there is a captain or guide they can ask to take them to OddHolme at the dome.
Ramirez (BrianZ) AC32/20/25 HP 150/150 CMD32 Monday September 11th, 2023 10:53:34 PM Well, if there are some people there, then maybe we can get some information, help or hopefully even charter a ship to our destination.
Ramirez joins on the carpet as well. Hmmm we may need to add some handles on this thing.
RobC - Nira Wynvyre -- AC 29/15/25 -- CMD 24 -- HP 138/138 -- DarkVision/ArcaneSight/SeeInvis Tuesday September 12th, 2023 5:20:19 AM
The temperature is a little much, but the wind doesn't bother Nira too much.
"They might not be used to visitors. They might also not be friendly. Let's not approach too fast. Let's just, fly casual"
Danko Pureheart (Yves) -- AC 29 (33) -- CMD 36 -- HP 132/132 d20+5=14 ; d20+20=39 ; Tuesday September 12th, 2023 6:28:54 AM
" Fly casual? I have a pair of dragon wings on my back.... I'll do my best. "
Some flying, some looking, a lot of sweating ------------------------ Fly 14 Perception 39 MAge armor resisit element
Approaching Dome and Docks (did I mention its HOT!) - DM Steve K Tuesday September 12th, 2023 7:31:19 AM
Flying casually, a man with huge bat wings, a huge air elemental, a drow who just seems to float, and three heavily-armed humans on a flying carpet, approach the low Dome and Docks (and ships?).
The 'Grasses swirl below you in the wind that buffets Danko a bit but no one is really put out by the occasional gust from an unexpected direction. On the way, the heroes spot a pack of ... what in Alemi's name are they?? Sort of like bullfrogs with only two legs, they move forward by leaping, some even cresting the top of the 30 foot high 'Grasses, and appearing to move together like a pod of dolphins. Ahead of them, the occasional bird flies up and away from the 'pod'. One bird flies closer to the heroes than others, and Nira and Danko notice it doesn't have any eyes!
The heroes are about half way to the Dome at the Docks side when an indistinct shout goes up: they have been noticed. The team on the Dome gives no notice, but most other heads turn to watch, and Nira and Danko notice a couple of runners sprinted from the Docks into a large tunnel through the Dome: obviously messengers to alert whatever leadership is inside.
All the heroes are close enough to see that about the docks are rowboats, skiffs, and rafts; single-masted ships with lanteen or sloop-and-gaff rigging, and the Carrack, a broad, three-masted monster with high fore and aft castles. A nut-brown gnome, bald except for two enormous bright orange sideburns, stands by a ship's wheel on the aft castle. Another wonder: none of the craft touch the 'Grass below, but levitate about a foot above the tops of the vegetation!
It appears the Tide has a choice on where they land to initiate conversation.
........... 2:04 (endure elements/rose's ends at 22:00)
a. HOT – 160F. Endure elements = uncomfortable. b. Windy – all flying skill checks are -5 and missile weapon attacks are -2
Gaffer - Courtney - HP: 164/164 AC: 37(T:21/FF:30) CMD:39) d20+11=12 ; Tuesday September 12th, 2023 9:40:03 AM
Gaffer struggles to maintain his flight with the changes in the winds, thinking he may have been better off with a smaller form, but perseveres to fly forward along with the others.
[b]"I enjoy a place that is both calming and hostile at the same time. It's like the nature equivalent of sitting at a cafe in Dirt City."
----- Fly: Take 10: 21 or 12 with a roll.
Gaffer - Courtney - HP: 164/164 AC: 37(T:21/FF:30) CMD:39) Tuesday September 12th, 2023 12:11:52 PM
[OOC: Sorry, I think my page hadn't refreshed since earlier in the day.]
Gaffer will allow the carpet to land first, the humanoid figures should have a better chance at putting people at ease and he isn't in a hurry to transform back before they know what the situation is.
Hmerrin (MikeK)(HP 217/217 AC:32 T:19 FF:28 CMD:41) Tuesday September 12th, 2023 5:57:20 PM
Hmerrin doesn't know a lot about boats. Pretty much nothing, in fact. But he does know which one of these craft before him looks like an honest to Alemi boat.
Holding his right hand up to show he's not holding a weapon, the heavily weaponized fighter guides the Carpet around the carrack until he gets to something that looks like a dock, and sets down next to it. He does take pains not to overfly any boats or people, purposely moving so everyone can see he's avoiding them.
Landing as near to the gnome as he can under those circumstances, he calls out with a grin. "Ahoy Captain. If you know the way to Oddholme, you could find the next few hours very financially rewarding."
--------- In Effect Endure Elements
Ramirez (BrianZ) AC32/20/25 HP 150/150 CMD32 Tuesday September 12th, 2023 11:22:08 PM
Ramirez steps off the carpet and looks around. He guesses the 'welcoming committee' will be along shortly and hopes they are friendly. He calls out greetings in the languages he knows since they didn't ask what was spoken here.
Desdichado (Ryan) [HP:211/211; AC:34/15/32 - CMD 36] Tuesday September 12th, 2023 11:43:52 PM
Desdichado follows along, trying to put on his most charming smile as they greet the dock workers.
RobC - Nira Wynvyre -- AC 29/15/25 -- CMD 24 -- HP 138/138 -- DarkVision/ArcaneSight/SeeInvis Wednesday September 13th, 2023 2:30:17 AM
Nira lands next to the magic carpet and gives a polite smile to those nearby. She lets Hmerrin do the talking and keeps her eye on those nearby to see how they react. If she spots any particularly powerful magical auras she'll let the others know via the Telepathic Link.
She looks to see if the people nearby are using any obvious ways to keep cool, or whether it looks like they have simply adapated to the environment.
------------- Perception: 36 (Take10) Sense Motive: 37 (Take10)
Danko Pureheart (Yves) -- AC 29 (33) -- CMD 36 -- HP 132/132 Wednesday September 13th, 2023 6:51:56 AM
Danko lands with the others. He keeps his dragon wings unfolded in case they need to make a hasty retreat.
----------
First Contact at Rattledam - DM Steve K Wednesday September 13th, 2023 6:56:24 AM
As they make their slow approach, the heroes can see most of the people are human, with some elves, dwarfs, gnomes, halflings, and half-orcs. Quite a few beastfolk, but no one of the tauric races observed. Nearly all are the color of cinnamon or darker, and clothing is light and billowy. There is nearly no metal on anyone.
Nira looks about for magical auras within 120' of her. She can see quite a number of people have Rose's Temperature Control, or Cloaks of Comfort that are near white, and those that don't seem to be working an extreme work-rest cycle to conserve strength and utility. (ooc: work for 10 minutes, rest in the shade for 50). None of the boats are showing magic, even though they levitate a foot above the 'Grasses!
Hmerrin doesn't know a lot about boats, but he knows which one reminds him of the ocean-going boats that often dock at Dirt City. And he knows something about ship protocol in Dirt City, too. Not flying over any boat, not landing on any boat, he chooses the dock in front of a gangplank that leads to the Carrack, and hails the Captain. The heroes notice the temperature drops to bearable with their protections as soon as they step foot on the dock. They also notice (Sense Motive being auto passes) that while the people on the docks and boats give them space and curious glances, they don't appear fearful or hostile, and continue their work while watching. Again, it is a reaction not out of place at the docks of Dirt City.
As (probably) expected, it is the nut-brown gnome with huge orange sideburns who comes to the side of the ship to respond. He spreads his hands to indicate the broadness of his craft and his voice booms out for half the dock to hear. "As easy as the Cloud Racer's hold full of Glass Grass Wine? Not likely!" The heroes hear guffaws and laughter up and down the docks, but the gnome's eyes go shrewd, his voice dropping to carry only to his crew and the heroes. "You go meet with the monks to ensure me that you aren't raiders or Baron's men, and then we can haggle. Got to be worth losing a day of sailing with a cargo of Glass Grass Wine. The gnomes of Zaran City got to keep their noses red!"
"You can stay here or go inside Rattledam and meet the welcoming party that's on their way. Some advice if you want it or not: meet them half way, as that is more hospitable than getting sun-baked."
............
........... 2:05 (endure elements/rose's ends at 22:00)
a. HOT – 160F. Endure elements = uncomfortable. b. Windy – all flying skill checks are -5 and missile weapon attacks are -2 c. Rattledam Docks and Boats. 120F. Endure elements = comfortable
Danko Pureheart (Yves) -- AC 29 (33) -- CMD 36 -- HP 132/132 Wednesday September 13th, 2023 9:16:11 AM
Danko shrinks the wings away.
" Glass half full and meeting half way.... let's go then. "
Hmerrin (MikeK)(HP 217/217 AC:32 T:19 FF:28 CMD:41) Endure Elements Wednesday September 13th, 2023 5:05:08 PM
Hmerrin nods along, both to the public bragging and the more private advice.
{I get the feeling he might take us, but if he's really got a hold full of Glass Grass Wine, its gonna cost,} he sends. He's had that stuff at the Giggling Ghost's Yuletide parties. Very nice.
Not one to ignore a local's advice, especially one he wants to keep friendly, Hmerrin thanks the captain, stows the carpet, and leads the way into town.
He figures the 'welcoming party' shouldn't be that hard to spot.
Desdichado (Ryan) [HP:211/211; AC:34/15/32 - CMD 36] Wednesday September 13th, 2023 5:47:16 PM
Desdichado nods his thanks and follows Hmerrin's lead towards the town.
Ramirez (BrianZ) AC32/20/25 HP 150/150 CMD32 Wednesday September 13th, 2023 8:51:21 PM
Ramirez also moves towards the entry to Rattledam, no sense in ignoring free advice. At least they didn't need to bargain for information here. He gives the gnome captain a cheerful wave and follows the rest of the Tide into the City.
RobC - Nira Wynvyre -- AC 29/15/25 -- CMD 24 -- HP 138/138 -- DarkVision/ArcaneSight/SeeInvis Thursday September 14th, 2023 2:44:33 AM
Not the worst way to enter a town. Everyone seems friendly. Nira's a little curious what sort of monks they'll be meeting: the punchy kind or the praying kind (or a mix of both?).
She follows along with the group.
Gaffer - Courtney - HP: 164/164 AC: 37(T:21/FF:30) CMD:39) Thursday September 14th, 2023 4:45:08 AM
After touching down Gaffer returns to normal form, seems like they need to make the right impression on the monks. "There being raiders and a Baron doesn't sound fun, still they seem confident on their journey though so maybe it'll be fine."
Meeting in Rattledam - DM Steve K Thursday September 14th, 2023 7:26:59 AM
The Tide all land and return to looking like humans and elves. Not wanting to turn down free advice, they move towards the largest tunnel into the Dome. A backward glance to the Gnome Captain sees him smile in satisfaction: he is happy that the strangers can take advice from locals, which may make negotiations later a little easier!
The tunnel through the Dome connects the docks to the town. Inside, the dome diffuses the harsh sun, providing pleasant daylight without the heat: it is a pleasant 80F! The town is set up with paths of concentric circles; the outer being gardens, orchards, and long barracks-looking structures, the middle appearing to be two-story homes with craft areas on the main floor and living quarters above; and in the center is a pool of crystal clear water with a large stone structure (Know Religion Dc 12 autopass: it is a temple to Pantheon). (Perception Dc 15 autopass: there seem to be more children here than in most towns.)
Coming from the temple is a group of nearly a dozen individuals, who, seeing the Tide, match pace with the heroes so the two groups meet at the base of the pool. Some children are in the pool, and many more flock to the sides when… the pool rumbles and a fountain erupts from the waters! Children are gleefully tossed about, shrieking and laughing. The group is mostly humans in robes, but in the front is two more unusual individuals; both women. The first is a Halfling in robes, growing old but hale, only a hint of red in her now silver tresses. The second is a brightly colored, non-robe wearing Surface Drow!
The Halfling holds up a hand and her band stops, the drow-girl a half a step late. ”Many Shadows. I am Rose, Leader of the First Circle, and I welcome your Pack to Rattledam. The Spinner picked that one of your number was of the same race as Yrul here, so we weaved that you are here to recover your foundling? That would be shady.”
…………….. OOC: Nick (Yrul), welcome to the CMTC! You are free to post!
........... 2:15 (endure elements/rose's ends at 22:00)
a. HOT – 160F. Endure elements = uncomfortable. b. Windy – all flying skill checks are -5 and missile weapon attacks are -2 c. Rattledam Docks and Boats. 120F. Endure elements = comfortable d. Rattledam inside. 80F
Yrûl Thursday September 14th, 2023 11:30:01 AM
“Yes, that’s right. That’s ...um...super-shady…?” Yrûl asked hopefully. She smiled broadly at the strangers and then quirked an eyebrow at what was, for her, a rather enigmatic pronouncement.
Facing the Tide is a young, pale blue skinned surface drow with crystal white hair. Around her brow resides a narrow lilac coloured band that held a small central amethyst. In her wild hair she has interwoven several ribbons; all are vivid primary colours – red, yellow and blue. Her throat is wrapped by a broad silver-mesh collar. The mesh is actually in the design of a series of flowing waves. A necklace sits around her elegant, swan-like neck. It is silver in hue and is crafted to appear as a linked daisy chain, the pendant part of which is a small, deep red stone that is set into a rose.
Long gloves cover her arms. They rise to mid bicep and are bone white. At her wrist sit a pair of broad bracers. The leather is studded with small iridescent stones.
Her clothing, such as it is, appears to consist mostly of a long vest top. It falls to her upper thigh, but is slit on either side to the hip to allow full freedom of movement. That vest is a kaleidoscope of swirling colours. A narrow sash sits low on her hips. It takes the form of a chain of stretching black cats, each one hooks the tail of the one before it with a paw.
Her boots come up just over the knee. They are crimson at the soles. The colour changes as it ascends; moving from red to scarlet to orange to vibrant yellow at the top. The boots are rear lacing.
Just peeking out from behind her back and hooked into her belt are two small picks.
A lime green strip of leather also hangs at her hip, looped through the same belt. (a sling)
On her back is a small backpack, roughly half the size of most conventional ones.
The smile suddenly vanished a brief look of concern passed across her pretty face.
“Oh, I’m being rude. I’m so sorry. I didn’t introduce my friends.” She then slowly pulled the picks from behind her back. Each had a ribbon of cloth attached to the handle. One was red. The other was yellow. She held each up in turn, the ‘red’ one first.
“This is Snicket and this is Dabs.” She announced gleefully. “But they aren’t playing out today.” She slid them back behind her back. “So...um. Who are you?”
Desdichado (Ryan) [HP:211/211; AC:34/15/32 - CMD 36] Thursday September 14th, 2023 2:01:53 PM
Desdichado is visibly stumped by the halflings statement.
"Are you sure you mean us?"
He looks slowly at the members of the Tide and swings his view to Rose and the drow girl.
"I'm certainly no expert in natural history, but I don't think she could be 'our' foundling, given most of us are human and Nira has been away from the Wold for a long, long time. Although, I guess elves do live a long time. Oh! - Unless you mean that metaphorically!"
He takes a closer look at Yrûl and sees the concern on her face. "Are you looking for your family, then?" the paladin asks her compassionately. The tall, stocky man in full plate (surely a mistake to wear in this locale) has dark curly hair and a tanned complexion. "Pleased to meet you, I'm Desdichado, although most people immediately shorten that to Dez."
Hmerrin (MikeK)(HP 217/217 AC:32 T:19 FF:28 CMD:41) Endure Elements Thursday September 14th, 2023 5:28:33 PM
Hmerrin takes in the pool and fountain curiously. He kinda wishes he could stay a bit longer and take a swim, but matters are pressing.
With the welcoming party approaching, he prepares himself for a number of openings.
'Take my drow, please' is not one them.
The local lingo does not help matters.
The fighter's mouth drops open, gears cranking madly inside his head. "Uh no," he answers stupidly. "We're here to borrow a boat."
Hmerrin visibly resets. His eyes rest on Yrul. "Hi. I'm Hmerrin. Nice to meet you and your, uh, companions."
The man shifts to Rose. "We're the Tide. Your WLA chapter probably knows about us. We're actually on a bit of a deadline to save the Wold, and were hoping you could help talk that gnome captain with the red hair out there to provide some transport."
---------- Hmerrin is a well built, 6ish foot tall, male human encased in mithril full plate. Green eyes and a hint of curly brown hair peek out from his helm. He sports a battleaxe at his right hip and a hand axe at his left. Under a dark blue cloak he carries a haversack and quiver. Three ioun stones hover around his head. A badge of the Woldian League of Adventures hangs from his neck.
RobC - Nira Wynvyre -- AC 29/15/25 -- CMD 24 -- HP 138/138 -- DarkVision/ArcaneSight/SeeInvis Friday September 15th, 2023 4:11:19 AM
Nira gets the impression they're talking about her and looks genuinely confused "Who, me? No, I mean, foundling? Uh, sorry, what?". She gets a little flustered but quickly regains her composure.
She tries to respond in the same fashion as she was greeted. "Many shadows to you, Rose of the First Circle" Nira gives a polite nod "and to you, Yrul of Rattledam. I'm Nira Wynvyre, member of the Tide and bloodwitch of the Crones". Nira's eyes glow pale blue as she looks over the pair.
Based on what she's seen and heard so far, she gets the impression that Yrul and Danko are going to get along really well.
--------
Nira appears remarkably youthful for an elf, seemingly no older than 116 years, even though she has actually lived for 216 years due to an unexpected entrapment within a Teucri time bubble for a century.
She stands as a somewhat petite and slender figure among her own kind, with barely any discernible muscle.
Her complexion is notably pale, a consequence of extended periods spent indoors, shielded from the sun's rays. So pale that she may have been mistaken for a surface drow. She suspects that she's going to stand out in a crowd here.
Yrûl Friday September 15th, 2023 6:29:05 AM
"Dez and - oh! Are you all royalty or something? Should I curtsy, bow, salute or ....?" She smiled apologetically. "Pleased to meet you." She then pirouetted into a curtsy, hands out holding skirts that she did not possess. That small, graceful spin was a kaleidoscope of colour. The truth was, she still had no real clue what was happening. The strange speech patterns didn't help at all in that regard. At least she understood the new people. Sadly, Yrûl was not the best judge of character. Yet, as was her nature, she remained optimistic that this time she'd be lucky.
Meeting in Rattledam - DM Steve K Friday September 15th, 2023 7:07:59 AM
The meeting by the pool in Rattledam starts about as well as can be expected with three different cultures and two different speech patterns. The Tide looks confused, Yrul seems to be living moment to moment, and it is obvious Rose and the monks also weren't expecting the reaction that they received. A confused mumbling is heard in the group.
- oh, this was a bright idea (Sense Motive autopass: the speaker really believes it was a bright idea, but you get the impression that he didn't mean it was good.) - yes, this eats grass - you are a sun-baked treadle if you think you had a waxed pick - warp down, we just have to weave a different pick
A look from Rose hushes the crowd. "They are obviously Bouncers and Foundlings themselves from outside the Sargrass. They aren't Walkers and aren't seeing the pattern we are weaving, but look to be the night's soil. Let's try until they see the warp and weft of what we are weaving."
Rose seems patient, and tries to talk with the Tide again. But it is hard going. Stumbling through communication, she eventually sends a monk out to the docks and they return with the Gnome Captain of the Cloud Racer. He is grinning so hard that his head is threatening to split in two. He speaks the patois with Rose for a minute, nods, and then turns to the Tide.
"OK, I am Tommiknuckles, Captain of the Cloud Racer out of Zaran City. This is Rose, generally the mouthpiece for the monks who run Rattledam, and the lady who invented the spell Rose's Temperature Control. They vouch that you are good guys and not from the Sargrass."
"They thought that you-there were friends with Yrul-here because she and she," the Captain points to Nira,"are both elf girls from outside the Sargrass, and both Yrul and you have been talking about OddHolme. The coincidence was real strong for the monks. They don't know because Yrul-here has lost her memory, or at least all of it after she got to the Sargrass. The monks-there suspect she ate some LotusGrass instead of BerryGrass, and that would do it!"
"Anyways, you said you-here wanted to go to OddHolme, Yrul-here wants to go to OddHolme, and I-here am willing to take all seven of you-there to OddHolme for 400gp plus the goodwill of the monks-there for taking Yrul with you when you leave the Sargrass. I drop you off and you make your own way out. Deal?"
With Tommiknuckles as interpreter, the Tide and Yrul can ask questions of Tommiknuckles or Rose about nearly anything.
........... 2:30 (endure elements/rose's ends at 22:00)
a. HOT – 160F. Endure elements = uncomfortable. b. Windy – all flying skill checks are -5 and missile weapon attacks are -2 c. Rattledam Docks and Boats. 120F. Endure elements = comfortable d. Rattledam inside. 80F
Danko Pureheart (Yves) -- AC 29 (33) -- CMD 36 -- HP 132/132 Friday September 15th, 2023 8:47:42 AM
Going back one post
" I'm Danko, of Cinnamon Valley. Please to meet you. "
" Would you like a carrot ? "
---------
Gaffer - Courtney - HP: 164/164 AC: 37(T:21/FF:30) CMD:39) Friday September 15th, 2023 11:33:13 AM
Gaffer is slow to react to the newcomer thrust upon them but does add a belated welcome.
He steps forward, shifting his staff over to his off hand and offering the other to shake. Gaffer, human, is covered in chain armour, the links formed of fine woven strands of grass from Sargrass itself. A silver band with three emeralds rests on his forehead, holding down curly white hair that grows down past his shoulders. He smiles, uncertainly.
"Erm, welcome, I'm Gaffer, we are more or less all from Dirt City and I'd be happy to travel with you, though we might not be the safest group to be with."
Yrûl Friday September 15th, 2023 12:23:36 PM
Yrûl smiled pleasantly at Danko. "Pleased to make your acquaintance, Sir." She replied in what she hoped was the appropriate manner for people as important as those gathered before her. She then looked at him questioningly. "Carrot? Oh, sure. Yes. that would be....ah.....good....Sir." There was no need to upset the gentleman, not when he was being so polite.
She then turned to Gaffer and blinked a few times in puzzlement. "Not safe? But you're all so.....impressive. I'm sure that I shall be perfectly safe in such august company. I just hope that I'm not a burden. I don't want to slow you down. it's just that I'm supposed to find this...spinning wheel. In OddHolme. It's missing!" She added the last most enthusiastically as if that explained everything. "Oh, but I'm not sure I have 400 gold. Is that the price for all of us or each?" She asked in little more than a whisper.
Desdichado (Ryan) [HP:211/211; AC:34/15/32 - CMD 36] Friday September 15th, 2023 3:34:45 PM
"Royalty?" laughs Desidchado, "nah, just some adventures who have stumbled our way into needing to save the Wold. And on a tight schedule," he adds. "But since we all want to go to OddHolme, we'd be glad to have you come along. We can fill you in on the details on the way."
He'll leave it to Hmerrin to sort out payment and final arrangements with Tommyknuckes.He does ask if "getting out" of OddHolme is as easy as booking passage. They magicked their way here from the Northern Continent with their only Greater Teleport scroll, so they'd need a way to get back there, too.
RobC - Nira Wynvyre -- AC 29/15/25 -- CMD 24 -- HP 138/138 -- DarkVision/ArcaneSight/SeeInvis Monday September 18th, 2023 2:23:56 AM "You're THAT Rose? I'm a big fan of your temperature control spell. I use it every day" It now makes kind of sense for Rose to create that spell. The temperature is so hot outside that spells to control it are needed.
She then turns to Yrul "No memory at all? I'm sorry to hear that. Do you remember how you arrived here?" Nira starts to consider different spells she might be able to cast in an attempt to help Yrul.
Nira too will leave the haggling to Hmerrin to work out. Maybe since the party are taking an elf off their hands they can get a discount.
Yrûl Monday September 18th, 2023 7:48:35 AM
"No, I wish I did. That would be just SO useful, I suppose. At least I didn't forget anything else...yet. You know, I should be used to it, because I can be sort of forgetful at times. like names, for instance; I'm not great with names. So if I forget anyone's I'm really sorry." Yrûl replied, still as effervescent and excited as ever.
Meeting in Rattledam - DM Steve K Monday September 18th, 2023 7:50:43 AM
The Tide greet Yrul in their usual varied ways, and the drow girl seems to fit right in with the variation. Flexible. Yeah, that's got to be good with this group!
Rose smiles happily at Nira's recognition. "It was a long time ago and another life when I was a young piggie and reckless and impulsive. My pack and I thought we could weave change in the Wold, and I guess the Bloodpack did, but not as we intended when we started out. Threads are like that: we all evolve or get cut."
Captain Tommiknuckles chortles. "400 gold for all 7 of you, total, and that IS with the discount of taking Yrul-here. That's for losing a day's sailing to Zaran City and the added danger of going to OddHolme. That track is off the usual routes which means there is more unknowns. Known unknowns can be prepared for, but unknown unknowns tend to eat you when you aren't looking. If Cloud Racer is destroyed but I'm still alive, I'll need something to start again."
........... 2:31 (endure elements/rose's ends at 22:00)
a. HOT – 160F. Endure elements = uncomfortable. b. Windy – all flying skill checks are -5 and missile weapon attacks are -2 c. Rattledam Docks and Boats. 120F. Endure elements = comfortable d. Rattledam inside. 80F
YRÛL TÖAR (Nick K) HP:140/140 AC:29 F:12 R:29 W:9. CMD:32 Monday September 18th, 2023 7:59:17 AM
test
Desdichado (Ryan) [HP:211/211; AC:34/15/32 - CMD 36] Monday September 18th, 2023 4:56:55 PM
Desdichado is a little surprised to hear just how dangerous the Sargrass is. He thought it was just a vast plain. His ears perk up at hearing OddHolme is especially dangerous.
"Oh, sure, obviously there are known knowns that we know we know, and the known unknowns that we know we don't know, and also unknown unknowns that we don't know we don't know. What are some of those 'known unknowns' out there?"
Hmerrin (MikeK)(HP 217/217 AC:32 T:19 FF:28 CMD:41) Endure Elements Monday September 18th, 2023 5:55:46 PM
Hmerrin recovers and gives Dez a sideways look. "10 gold you don't even know what you just said," he teases.
The fighter pulls out a sack and carefully pours out a double handful of gold pieces. He makes no effort to disguise the fact there's a lot more where that came from. "200 for you now, 200 when we get there, and maybe a bonus if we beat some speed records on the way."
He ushers everyone toward the Cloud Racer, falling in next to Yrul along the way. "Rule 1, he declares with a playful wag of a finger. No calling anyone 'Sir', but especially not Danko.
Pleased to meet you Yrul. So tell us, if we do run into some of these unknown unknowns, what's your skill set? I wade into melee, swing axes, and usually end up bleeding a lot. Nira's a spellcaster and resident healer. What's your speciality?"
"Oh, well, I mainly try not to get hit, because that hurts. So, if the bad guys don't see me, they can't hit me." She explained cheerily. "Actually, I'm a dancer. Yeah, I sort of just dance around a lot and try to SURPRISE! people. It's fun....when it works. Sometimes it doesn't and then I have to bravely run away. But, um,....well, I sort of specialise in getting into places.....where people don't want others to be ....and opening stuff that they want to stay locked. That kind of thing, but mostly, it's the dancing. Oh, and I can do some magic if that helps?...But it's not a lot. Like I said, mostly it's dancing; so if anything needs dancing around, I'm your girl." She then whispered conspiratorially. "I'm a Shadow dancer"
Danko Pureheart (Yves) -- AC 29 (33) -- CMD 36 -- HP 132/132 Monday September 18th, 2023 8:15:30 PM
" Knowns.... unknowns... knowns... All I know is that I like carrots...
Hey Y-rule... sounds like you're a private dancer, dancer for money, do whatever people want you to do?
Want a carrot? "
Gaffer - Courtney - HP: 164/164 AC: 37(T:21/FF:30) CMD:39) Monday September 18th, 2023 9:00:54 PM
"Also some of your known knowns that might be unknown unknowns for us that would be good for us to know." Gaffer manages to add after a few seconds pause.
He is ushered on board and thinks better of going for the crows nest with the wild winds at play; he moves to the fore of the ship.
Chuckling, "What are the odds, it's been our habit lately to go were some people really don't want us to go."
Ramirez (BrianZ) AC32/20/25 HP 150/150 CMD32 Monday September 18th, 2023 11:00:42 PM
Ramirez is pleased to meet Yrul. He shifts the color of his cloak to something bright and pleasant to hopefully make her more comfortable with the group. Pleased to meet you of course, he says with a short bow. We will have to get to know each other better on the way, we seem to be in a bit of a hurry. And if we don't get there in time, we will have to run another errand for a dragon, and the last one was somewhat unpleasant.
Ramirez wonders what unknowns the team might run into on the way to OddHolme.
Danko Pureheart (Yves) -- AC 29 (33) -- CMD 36 -- HP 132/132 Tuesday September 19th, 2023 6:32:20 AM
At Hmerrin's comment... and with a smile
" Oh Hemmi.... They can call me 'sir' is they choose. I likely just won't respond.
And Y-rule, I also do similar things as you. Minus the dancing. Don't get me wrong, I'm a great dancer! But, I open things and cast things without the dancing, Dancing, I save for impressing the tavern servant girls. "
YRÛL TÖAR (Nick K) HP:140/140 AC:29 F:12 R:29 W:9. CMD:32 Tuesday September 19th, 2023 8:06:22 AM
"But the dancing is the best part." She replied incredulously. "As to all that private stuff - eww, no way. That tends to get all icky and stuff; so I leave that well alone. Oh, and Dan, it's 'i-ROOL', not 'Y-rule'. You know, just to be clear. I mean, you didn't want the Sir thing, right? So, I kind of like being iROOL and Y-rule. That's because Yrûls are, you know, SO much more fun than...well...other stuff. Uh, errands for dragons doesn't sound fun. If it helps at all, I've got nothing to bri'- OOOH! Great colours Rammers!" Even when 'complaining' about the mispronunciation of her name Yrûl remained upbeat and full of smiles.
To the Docks! - DM Steve K Tuesday September 19th, 2023 10:11:41 AM
The Tide continues to banter and get to know Yrul, the ever up-beat drow dancer.
Captain Tommiknuckles readily accepts Hmerrin's counter offer, the gnome is confident it still means 400 gold plus a potential bonus. "Time's a-wasting! Let's go!"
Still, the Captain and the now 7-member Tide have to take their leave of Rose and the monk contingent. That takes a moment, with Rose returning Yrul's smokey glasses and waves a benediction. "Many shadows for our parting and may we walk in the darkness together once again. Waxed picks on your walking!"
Back through the town and the tunnel, the normal daylight inside the Dome is replaced by the unrelenting BRIGHTNESS and heat of the Sargrass sun. Yrul has to quickly don her goggles to avoid being bedazzled; she can't use her darkvision, but that wouldn't be much of a hindrance out here on the Plains.
At least vaguely familiar with ships at the Dirt City docks, Hmerrin and the others can see Captain Tommiknuckles knows his ship and is working quickly to get it ready to sail. He haggles with the dockmaster, turns to verbally take the skin of a loafing sailor, and then brings the heroes to a round table and chairs on the forecastle to offer some cream to go with their tea as sweet as sugar. "The changing winds, rolling swells of swale, occasional Druid Tree and kopjes are the known knowns on the direct route to OddHolme. Known unknowns include raiders or Baron's men, but they are unlikely to have a strong enough wizard for a magical ambush, and the Cloud Racer will outrun even any Baron Mutant Rapke. Most of the fauna, Piggies, Bounders, Rapke, and most outland creatures can't catch or hurt something as big as the Cloud Racer, either, but a Ranthom or Sarg Moth can. And strange weather has been coming out of the Crystal Mountains, too. And then there is the Manfri: no telling what those little men are capable of or why they do things. But if they want to stop the Cloud Racer, rest assuredly they could."
Between the Captain rushing off to give orders or verbally encourage different sailors, he always returns to answer any questions the team may have. ............
2:45 (endure elements/rose's ends at 22:00)
a. HOT – 160F. Endure elements = uncomfortable. b. BRIGHT - intense daylight with no shade or shadows c. Windy – all flying skill checks are -5 and missile weapon attacks are -2 d. Rattledam Docks and Boats. 120F. Endure elements = comfortable
Desdichado (Ryan) [HP:211/211; AC:34/15/32 - CMD 36] Tuesday September 19th, 2023 1:43:21 PM
"The Baron has been brought up a few times now, and always in a negative way. What's the story there?" Desdichado asks the captain. "Also, have you ever been to OddHolme before? Know anything about the area? We're supposed to be looking for a portal there that's going to disappear later today."
Hmerrin (MikeK)(HP 217/217 AC:32 T:19 FF:28 CMD:41) Endure Elements Tuesday September 19th, 2023 5:08:24 PM
"Yeah, how big is Oddholme?" Hmerrin chimes in.
He's also got a question for Yrul. "You mentioned you were going to Oddholme to look for a spinning wheel? Can you tell us more about that? Maybe its related to our search."
Ramirez (BrianZ) AC32/20/25 HP 150/150 CMD32 Wednesday September 20th, 2023 1:24:09 AM
Ramirez enjoys the tea while listening to the Captain. Well hopefully we won't run into any of those unknowns or even the less savory knowns, but if we do the Tide will help defend your ship.
RobC - Nira Wynvyre -- AC 29/15/25 -- CMD 24 -- HP 138/138 -- DarkVision/ArcaneSight/SeeInvis Wednesday September 20th, 2023 3:49:48 AM 'Does the Cloud Racer have any protections against the environment? Are those onboard protected from the heat in some way?" Nira isn't sure whether people take shifts working the deck, or whether there is some magic in effect. She wouldn't put it past Rose herself to come up with something super powerful specifically for the ship.
YRÛL TÖAR (Nick K) HP:140/140 AC:29 F:12 R:29 W:9. CMD:32 Wednesday September 20th, 2023 5:19:48 AM
"Oh, I'm totally going to need some protection against the heat! that's like an oven out there. Ugh, and so bright! these glasses are great, but all the colours are dimmed." Yrul fidgeted and loitered. She was not at all eager to venture out into the heat without some protection. As to tea, she didn't like the stuff. She didn't have a sweet tooth, at all. Maybe she could just have some water. Cold water would have been a delight.
In response to Hmerrin's question, she stopped and thought. "Erm, this will sound dumb, but honestly, I can't. You see, I need the spinning wheel to get my memories back. It's sort of like a curse antidote thing. I must have got caught 'collecting' something....possibly, but - um - yeah, I really need to get that Spinning Wheel. Apparently, it's all 'lost' and stuff; so if I make it un-lost, then my memories will become un-lost too! So, I really need to go to Odders."
Danko Pureheart (Yves) -- AC 29 (33) -- CMD 36 -- HP 132/132 Wednesday September 20th, 2023 6:32:00 AM
A preplexed Danko starts repeating to himself.
" Dan?... Daan????? dan..... "
" Friend I-Rool, My name is Danko Pureheart of Cinnamon Valley. Grand son of Sarai, protector of the Valley. Loyal to my friends, seeker of mischief and wooer of lovely ladies. What I don't do is go by 'Dan' "
He smiles, with just an air of mishief.
Gaffer - Courtney - HP: 164/164 AC: 37(T:21/FF:30) CMD:39) Wednesday September 20th, 2023 7:30:50 AM
Gaffer sits for tea, he most certainly does have a sweet tooth, and his ears prick up at the mention of, "Could you tell us a little more about the Druid Trees you mentioned?"
He checks with Yrul for permission first, but has a remaining casting of Endure Elements he can use to help her with the heat and will cast it if she doesn't mind.
Cloud Racer - DM Steve K Wednesday September 20th, 2023 7:36:01 AM
Captain Tommiknuckles cheerfully responds to the heroes as the Grass Ship gets ready to sail. He points to the same stunted tree in a grass clearing where the Tide teleported near Rattledam. "Yes, the Cloud Racer, just like every other raft, boat, or ship on the Sargrass Plains is made of Druidwood, like that scraggly thing over there. Druidwood repels 'Grasses, and that is how our flat-bottomed majesty 'floats' over the sea of 'Grass. Druidwood also helps repel some of the heat." Nira notices that the crew of the Cloud Racer all has Endure Elements spells on them.
Turns out they are called Druidwood because there is another group in the Sargrass that opposed the Monks and are trying to plant and cultivate those trees to drive the 'Grasses away: calls the 'Grasses 'unnatural'. Tommiknuckles likes them because they plant druidwood, but doesn't like them because they want to get rid of the 'Grasses. "I think we need both", he declares.
The Captain has been to OddHolme many times, he claims, and describes a half-dome smaller than Rattledam with several dozen huts. "It's mostly just a Foundling Town: the monks manage them and take in orphans and other lost people that the Sargrass hasn't killed yet and there they eke out a hard-scrabble existence. They occasionally find treasures and artifacts but I don't know where."
The story is the Baron is the bogeyman of the Sargrass. He wants to take over the Sargrass Plains for himself; learn the secrets of the Monks, Manfri, Druids, and other groups, and basically become king of the whole place. Seems really deep into experiments with the local fauna to create even more powerful monsters. "And he is the one behind the slave trade, too.", Tommiknuckles adds unnecesarily. It is obvious that nearly everything bad is attributed to the Baron.
And the Captain nods at Ramirez in jovial agreement. "Well of course you will. Your turning into tornados and sprouting dragon wings was a reason my price was so low!" ...................
It takes another 15 minutes for the Cloud Racer to be ready. Topsail unfurled, mooring lines cast off, the ship heels slightly and it slides from the docks. About a quarter mile away from Rattledam, Tommiknuckles gives the orders: thus and thus! And beige sails tumble down in a rustle, then *pop!* as the wind fills them into graceful bell shaped curves.
The ship under full sail is a wonder: speeding up to 100mph! The Cloud Racer streaks up and down rolling hills, the 'Grasses of the Plains always staying a foot below the Druidwood ship. In the distance, a microstorm billows up, lightning and electricity playing between sky and ground, and streaking about the 'Grasses themselves. An hour passes and the heroes are getting used to the pitch and sway of the deck, so much like and yet unlike a ship on the waters. They are getting thier 'Grass Legs'!
(Heroes are free to describe how they are spending time on the Cloud Racer, ask questions of Tommiknuckles or the crew, or observe the very strange sights of the Sargrass. Yrul especially needs some magical protection, have to stay below decks, or start making endurance checks because of the extreme heat.)
............
4:00 (endure elements/rose's ends at 22:00)
The Sargrass Plains are an 'Epic Location' - no Hero Points may be used or given. a. HOT – 160F. Endure elements = uncomfortable (feels like 90F). b. BRIGHT - intense daylight with no shade or shadows c. Windy – all flying skill checks are -5 and missile weapon attacks are -2 d. Cloud Racer. 120F. Endure elements = comfortable
"Oops, sorry Dankers." Yrul apologised before turning delighted to Gaffer. "Oh, yes please! Enduring some elements would be wonderful!" With the spell in place Yrul darted around the ship, before racing up to the bow to stare in wonder at the sights arrayed before her. Her Silvery white hair and colourful ribbons danced in the wind.
"Wow, this is fast. I don't think I've ever moved so fast in - forever!" She spun around to look up at the sails and then down to caress the wood of the railing. It was all fascinating
Desdichado (Ryan) [HP:211/211; AC:34/15/32 - CMD 36] Wednesday September 20th, 2023 4:26:03 PM
Desdichado watches the crew and chats with Tommyknickles during the voyage. "That Baron sounds like a real jerk," he declares.
Ramirez (BrianZ) AC32/20/25 HP 150/150 CMD32 Wednesday September 20th, 2023 5:53:25 PM I agree Des. Maybe we should look into that sometime, if we survive our current mission.
Ramirez spends the time on the ship taking in the sights and learning what he can about the area from the crew.
Hmerrin (MikeK)(HP 217/217 AC:32 T:19 FF:28 CMD:41) Endure Elements Wednesday September 20th, 2023 7:05:56 PM
Hmerrin is shocked at how fast the Cloud Racer, well, races over these grasses.
He spends a good half hour near the bow, helm in hand to feel the breeze, looking out at the plants.
Growing bored, he pokes about the ship, checking out the carpentry and wood employed in both the ship construction and the furnishings within. If he can score a piece of that druidwood stuff, he'd love to get a feel for how it can be worked.
RobC - Nira Wynvyre -- AC 29/15/25 -- CMD 24 -- HP 138/138 -- DarkVision/ArcaneSight/SeeInvis Thursday September 21st, 2023 2:09:27 AM
Nira finds slavers to be particularly despicable, and hopes that they cross paths with the Baron as part of their current mission. If not, then once the raks are vanquished they will have to pay him a visit.
She will try and find some sort of maps aboard the Cloud Racer. She trusts they are being taken in the right direction, but once they get there they may need to navigate for themselves.
Gaffer - Courtney - HP: 164/164 AC: 32(T:18/FF:27) CMD:35) Thursday September 21st, 2023 5:15:47 AM
Gaffer sticks to the fore of the ship and keeps an eye on the grass ahead. As the scenery blurs past, he can't help but wonder about the creatures who are able to stop a ship moving this quickly.
----- Perception, Take 10: 39
Danko Pureheart (Yves) -- AC 29 (33) -- CMD 36 -- HP 132/132 Thursday September 21st, 2023 6:34:56 AM
Danko steps up to the bow, leans over the rail, arms extended and to no one in particular yells out
" I'm the king of the wold!!!!! "
And then laughs a deep belly laugh.
I'm King of the World! - DM Steve K Thursday September 21st, 2023 7:56:59 AM
Most of the heroes are impressed at the speed of the ship: Cloud Racer indeed! Only Gaffer has had any experience going so fast, and that was as a peregrine falcon in the stoop! Spending time just exhilarating in the feel of the ship is well worth it.
Desdichado, Ramirez, and Nira all take a healthy dislike to this Baron fella. When they have time after this current mission... Sailors love to talk and embellish the stories Tommiknuckles told The Tide. What the heroes can piece together is that no one's specific description of the Baron is the same, and no one has actually seen anyone who has claimed to be a Baron's Man, but everyone knows someone who knows someone...
Hmerrin decides to poke around and look for any spare Druidwood. Sailors love to talk, and the young fighter learns it is quite a rare substance; a ship as large as the Cloud Racer took a LOT of Druidwood and cost as much as a kingdom.
Nira also pokes around looking for maps of the Sargrass. Not finding any, the Captain comes by and gives her a wink and taps his temple. "This is the only place you'll find a map on this ship, miss. Sargrass Captains know each swell of the land we travel, but only the routes we travel. You were lucky that I was in at Rattledam. You would have found a guide on one of the local rafts, or even a Walker to get you there, I'm the only one who could get you there before sunset."
Gaffer can't help but wonder about the creatures who are able to stop a ship moving this quickly. His answer comes later in the day.
In 3 hours, Tommiknuckles calls out: thus and thus! And sailors jump to the lines leading to the masts. Most sail is reefed except for the Spinnaker, and soon the wind changes direction. Going slower, the CloudRacer rolls and rises, going up taller Grasses, and then down again to shorter ones. In another hour of this slower movement, the wind slackens in the spinnaker, and the crew go aloft to change the sail alignment once again. The sails billow and luff, billow and luff as the ship comes to a near halt.
Gaffer, at the fore of the ship, has sharp eyes, and can see Tommiknuckles at the ship's wheel on the aft castle. The Captain is taking a worried interest in the starboard (right) side of the ship where a wall of dense RoughGrass rises 30’ in the air.
............
8:00 (endure elements/rose's ends at 22:00)
The Sargrass Plains are an 'Epic Location' - no Hero Points may be used or given. a. HOT – 160F. Endure elements = uncomfortable (feels like 90F). b. BRIGHT - intense daylight with no shade or shadows c. Windy – all flying skill checks are -5 and missile weapon attacks are -2 d. Cloud Racer. 120F. Endure elements = comfortable
Desdichado (Ryan) [HP:211/211; AC:34/15/32 - CMD 36] Thursday September 21st, 2023 4:36:00 PM
"What do you see Cap'n?" asks Desdichado.
He also realizes that they haven't told Yrul much of their mission beyond the generalities. If she's to go with them, they should probably tell her what they know so that she can make an informed decision.
(OOC: Nick, I don't know how much you already know about why we're going to OddHolme, or what's beyond the gate we're trying to find.)
It was far too bright! Yrul felt vulnerable and extremely exposed. Where had all the shadows gone? In this place it seemed that most of her powers were rendered useless. She sighed. At least it wasn't that bad below decks. She consoled herself with the thought that hopefully OddHolme had shadows. It just wasn't in her nature to be pessimistic. As the ship came to a halt, or as near to it as it could, she ventured back up onto deck, immediately experiencing the rise in temperature and the glaring light. So bright! How could anyone see anything when blinded like this?
"What's happening?" She asked no one in particular.
Ramirez (BrianZ) AC32/20/25 HP 150/150 CMD32 Thursday September 21st, 2023 8:21:05 PM Well Yrul, it looks like we might run into one of those unknowns after all. Captain, is it going to be fight or flight?
Hmerrin (MikeK)(HP 217/217 AC:32 T:19 FF:28 CMD:41) Endure Elements d20+22=36 ; Thursday September 21st, 2023 8:57:11 PM
Hmerrin comes topside when he feels the ship slow. He can only watch the sailors work the ship with growing anxiety as she slows even further.
Once Gaffer passes the word, Hmerrin's mood doesn't improve. He puts his helm back on, pulls out the flying carpet, and rolls it out on the deck.
The fighter warily eyes the grasses to starboard. [Perception 36]
RobC - Nira Wynvyre -- AC 29/15/25 -- CMD 24 -- HP 138/138 -- DarkVision/ArcaneSight/SeeInvis Friday September 22nd, 2023 2:09:52 AM
With all eyes starboard, Nira turns her attention to the port side of the vessel. She trusts the Captain knows what he's doing, but even the most experienced sailors can be fooled from time to time.
------------- Perception: 36
Great Ranthoms! - DM Steve K Friday September 22nd, 2023 7:37:10 AM
Tensions rise as the Cloud Racer slows to nearly nothing, and Tommiknuckles is calling out complex nautical (can we call it nautical?) instructions as crew rush to obey.
With all eyes to the starboard, Nira looks to the port. Just in case.
Hmerrin's warrior senses are tingling, and he prepares.
Desdichado finds the person he believes knows the most about the situation, and asks the Captain. The gnome opens his mouth to reply, but then three holes appear in the line of 30' tall Sargrass, the 'Grass falling like timber before being sucked into three equally sized black holes.
Erupting from the RoughGrass 200’ away are three walls of flesh. They look like slugs with two arms that pull them forward but much, much bigger! Cavernous mouths with serrated teeth in the lower jaw suck in Grass in an endless feeding cycle. And they are headed right for the CloudRacer!
The cry goes up: “Great Ranthoms!”
Tommiknuckles turns to the heroes, “The wind is bad, we can’t get away. Unless you can do something quick, we’re gonna have to abandon ship and walk the rest of the way!”
............ COMBAT ROUNDS
Map in email.
............
8:01.01 (endure elements/rose's ends at 22:00)
The Sargrass Plains are an 'Epic Location' - no Hero Points may be used or given. a. HOT – 160F. Endure elements = uncomfortable (feels like 90F). b. BRIGHT - intense daylight with no shade or shadows c. Windy – all flying skill checks are -5 and missile weapon attacks are -2 d. Cloud Racer. 120F. Endure elements = comfortable
YRÛL TÖAR (Nick K) HP:140/140 AC:29 F:12 R:29 W:9. CMD:32 Friday September 22nd, 2023 10:15:11 AM
The lack of shadows was more than a little disturbing. Worse, the intense light seemed to bleach the colour from the land. She doubted though that anyone else was even considering such matters given the immense monstrosities bearing down upon them.
"Mr Captain, Sir, I can move your boat - a bit, if you want." Yrul offered tentatively. "The thing is.....I can't move it very far, but likely - or maybe - enough to get out of the way of the giant slugthorn-thingies. I'd say just -um- 120'. Would that be enough?" It was as much as she could do under the circumstances. She certainly wasn't going to be fighting those things. Snicket and Dabs were very eager, but they small and the sluggies were gargantuan. She didn't think that they'd even notice Snicket and Dabs' best efforts. Of course, she wasn't going to tell them that. She didn't want to upset her weapons.
Desdichado (Ryan) [HP:211/211; AC:34/15/32 - CMD 36] Friday September 22nd, 2023 1:48:04 PM
Desdichado had been expecting one of the more magically inclined team members to try something, and is nearly dumbfounded when little Yrul of all people suggests she can move the ship.
"You can?" he asks incredulously.
Gaffer - Courtney - HP: 164/164 AC: 32(T:18/FF:27) CMD:35) Friday September 22nd, 2023 3:51:11 PM
Gaffer smiles, wondering if they have the same idea. "I think I can help move the ship along someway too, or at least conjures winds to do so, how far would be enough to discourage them from chasing us?"
He talks casually, but renews his Barkskin spell to make sure he's safe if it comes to a fight.
----- Barkskin: +5 AC, 360minutes
Yrûl Töar (Nick K) HP:140/140 AC:29 F:12 R:29 W:9. CMD:32 Saturday September 23rd, 2023 3:45:48 AM
"Well, it's not much and yes, I suspect that my idea is going to be exactly the same as Gafferz', but maybe between us we can move the boat out of their path." Her idea had indeed been to summon a Gust of Wind - twice! The sails were designed to capture that wind and move the vessel. She didn't know how much, if any, residual movement there's be from such a wind, but knew it would at least push for 60'.
(OOC: Trying the new header. Thanks to Rob for assisting.)
Hmerrin (MikeK)(HP 217/217 AC:32 T:19 FF:28 CMD:41) Endure Elements Saturday September 23rd, 2023 12:55:59 PM
Hmerrin takes in the scene. "Well, that's new," he finally comments.
The magic wielders are coming up with their ideas. The fighter prepares for Plan B.
"All aboard who're coming aboard," he says, stepping onto the carpet. "I'm gonna fly over and see if I can hurt one."
Once whoever joins him, Hmerrin commands the carpet to rise and move forward. 40' fly, first climbing to get 10' higher than ranthom, then due east.
Ramirez (BrianZ) AC32/20/25 HP 150/150 CMD32 Saturday September 23rd, 2023 7:28:37 PM
Ramirez casts a spell(hopefully before Hmerrin flies out) to boost the team.
move to (F -northeast of the mast, no numbers on side grid) and cast haste (should hit everyone except Des and Tommiknuckles, Ramirez will include any crew members nearby)
Tommiknuckles, do they just move in a straight line or will they come for us directly?
Used: Spells: 5/6 3rd level remaining
RobC - Nira Wynvyre -- AC 29/15/25 -- CMD 24 -- HP 138/138 -- DarkVision/ArcaneSight/SeeInvis d20+30=46 ; d20+26=32 ; Saturday September 23rd, 2023 11:08:11 PM "I'm with you, Hmerrin" Nira will join the fighter. "Before we try and hurt one maybe we can turn them away? I've got a few spells that might do the trick"
She knows that the bigger the creature, the greater their reach, so she ascends to about 40ft higher than the ranthoms.
----------- Perception: 32 (also to try and work out their reach) Knowl Nature: 46 (to identify strengths/weaknesses)
Move: Fly east. 30ft fly speed + Haste = 60ft. Double move should get to about Y19 and 40ft above the ranthoms
Yrûl Töar (Nick K) HP:140/140 AC:29 F:12 R:29 W:9. CMD:32 Sunday September 24th, 2023 6:26:13 AM
Attempted updatable header
Yrûl Töar (Nick K) HP:140/140 AC:29 F:12 R:29 W:9. CMD:32 Sunday September 24th, 2023 6:31:00 AM
Attempted updatable header. Sadly this doesn't work for me.
Danko Pureheart (Yves) -- AC 29 (33) -- CMD 36 -- HP 132/132 Sunday September 24th, 2023 2:22:14 PM
Preparing himself for battle, Danko materializes his staff of fire in his hand from the efficient quiver.
He sends { I can likely encircle them in a wall of fire. That may slow them down. They are still to far for most of my spells to be effective. }
Great Ranthoms! rd 2 - DM Steve K Monday September 25th, 2023 9:54:54 AM
While most of the heroes consider ways to get the Cloud Racer away from the Great Ranthoms, Danko retrieves his Staff of Fire, Hmerrin unpacks (move action) and takes the Carpet of Flying out towards the three slug-things for Plan B, and Nira joins the fighter using her own hasted Overland Flight. Both Hmerrin and Nira feel the temperature spike as they leave the druidwood ship.
Ramirez is able to cast his spell before Hmerrin flies, so Hmerrin is also Hasted, but his carpet is not.
Tommiknuckles spares a glance at the crew already aloft in the rigging, but only the most forward triangular sail is rigged for catching any wind. "If we had some sustained wind in the Spinnaker, we might be able to pull forward to miss at least one, but it will take at least a minute to set more sail, and they will have destroyed the Cloud Racer by then. And we were resetting here because just ahead are some dangerous shoals: we go too far forward and they change direction, we are still trapped and wrecked."
They don't care about the Grass Ship, only eating, and usually go in a straight line. So we should be safe if we get out of the way or they get some powerful reason to turn."
..................
The beasts move forward, powerful, clawed arms in the front, and a jet of air and offal out the back send each of them 50’ closer to the Cloud Racer! Anything in front of a Great Ranthom goes into the 15' maw or crushed underneath.
................ COMBAT ROUNDS
Map in email.
............
8:01.02 (endure elements/rose's ends at 22:00)
The Sargrass Plains are an 'Epic Location' - no Hero Points may be used or given. a. HOT – 160F. Endure elements = uncomfortable (feels like 90F). Hmerrin, Nira b. BRIGHT - intense daylight with no shade or shadows c. Windy – all flying skill checks are -5 and missile weapon attacks are -2 d. Cloud Racer. 120F. Endure elements = comfortable
Yrûl Töar (Nick K) HP:140/140 AC:29 F:12 R:29 W:9. CMD:32 Monday September 25th, 2023 11:50:39 AM
Despite what Tommiknuckles had said, it seemed to Yrûl that her spell would work; or rather spells. She'd need to use two to move the ship 120'. The wind could be 'sustained, as she felt pretty sure that Gaffer had exactly the same notion in mind. Multiple, consecutive winds would certainly fill the spinnaker-thingy. At least, she hoped so, because beyond that she doubted that she could be of much real assistance.
"Best tell your crew people to hold on tight." Yrûl
OOC: Yrûl will cast Gust of Wind. OOC2: Again, thanks to Rob for help with the header.
OOC: co_DM SteveK. Unless told different, I'm making the assumption that Yrul's target for the spell is the spinnaker sail.
Danko Pureheart (Yves) -- AC 29 (33) -- CMD 36 -- HP 132/132 Monday September 25th, 2023 4:47:11 PM
" I'll try to stall them... but I don't know if the spell will work .... "
Danko attempts to cast a wall of force
--------------
Wall of force 20x10 from R9 to R17
Desdichado (Ryan) [HP:211/211; AC:34/15/32 - CMD 36] Monday September 25th, 2023 5:18:18 PM
In typical fashion, the team has no single plan. Desdichado watches Hmerrin head off on the carpet with Nira flying after him, and turns to see Yrul conjuring a gust of wind.
Seeing Danko pull out the Wand of Fire and then beginning to cast a spell, he's afraid Danko's about to set the Plains on fire!
"Wait!" he shouts but is relieved that it's a wall of force that goes up. Thinking ahead though, he shouts across the deck "Gaffer - can you make it rain if a fire does start?"
Ramirez (BrianZ) AC32/20/25 HP 150/150 CMD32 Monday September 25th, 2023 6:28:06 PM
Ramirez casts hold monster at Ranthom1, hoping to slow the creature down enough for the wind magic to move the Cloud Racer past their path of eating..
Danko, if it works, maybe try another one but angle it to direct them?
Hmerrin (MikeK)(HP 217/217 AC:32 T:19 FF:28 CMD:41) Endure Elements Monday September 25th, 2023 7:57:31 PM
Hmerrin directs the carpet over the Wall of Force and onward.
------- Fly to YZ/11. Still 10' above rathoms.
Gaffer - Courtney - HP: 164/164 AC: 32(T:18/FF:27) CMD:35) Monday September 25th, 2023 8:43:33 PM
Gaffer holds onto the ship as the gust of wind builds in it's sail. Watching Hmerrin and Nira fly close to the creatures, he hopes they can't jump.
"I can usually make it rain for a few miles around, though I would be careful in heat like this, the spell takes some time to take effect."
He waits to see how the ship will move, and how the Ranthoms react as it does so.
RobC - Nira Wynvyre -- AC 29/15/25 -- CMD 24 -- HP 138/138 -- DarkVision/ArcaneSight/SeeInvis Tuesday September 26th, 2023 1:48:16 AM
Nira wants to find a way to divert these creatures from their current course. She casts a spell that she hopes will prevent them from getting close to her and change their path.
--------------- Cast Repulsion. Will Save vs DC28 to get within 80ft radius of Nira
Great Ranthoms! rd 3 - DM Steve K d20+21=33 ; d20+21=22 ; d20+21=32 ; d20+21=32 Tuesday September 26th, 2023 7:24:16 AM
Yrûl casts a Gust of Wind spell at the sail, and a line of strong wind pushes outward. While it could knock down a blind prairie swallow or nearly make a rowboat overturn, the drow’s spell does little more than billow a part of the spinnaker before luffing once more. The gargantuan ship doesn’t move.
Danko attempts to cast a wall of force as a barrier to cover a part of the ship. As a 15th level Sorcerer, he does better than he anticipated, making a 20’ high barrier of force in a line 75’ long! (ooc: from R/S,8/9 to R/S,22/23!)
Desdichado looks to set up some sort of organized plan from on deck of the Cloud Racer.
Ramirez casts hold monster at Ranthom1, and he immediately knows it slid off the beast without effect. (ooc: Will DC 10+4 (spell level)+3(Ramirez’ Charisma) = 17 vs 33 fail)
Hmerrin, already above the wall of force, flies onward..
Gaffer holds onto the ship and notes the gust of wind is exactly as Tommiknuckles said, not big or sustained enough to move the great ship.
Nira casts a Repulsion spell that she hopes will prevent them from getting close to her and change their path. She succeeds in affecting Ranthom 1, who shudders as it tries to move against the abjuration! ......
Ranthom 1, unable to move on its predestined path because of Nira's spell, changes direction, sliding against the magical effect and continues to mow down 10' Sargrasses while scooting forward.
Ranthom 2 and 3 continue forward, serrated teeth slicing the tough Sargrasses like a scythe on barley, 15' wide mouths sucking in everything into a black hole of hunger.
.............
Tommiknuckles winces as two Great Ranthoms are still on the right course to destroy his ship. "Well, it was a good thought. Now for another to save my crew. PREPARE TO ABANDON! RAFTS TO THE STERN!" The crew scamper out of the rigging, leaving the sails furled. Those under the deck are taking trays of short Sargrass and holding them against the ceiling. Pre-set sections of decking, reacting to the presence of Sargrass close underneath, pop out of the aft castle decking...
................ COMBAT ROUNDS
Map in email.
............
8:01.03 (endure elements/rose's ends at 22:00)
The Sargrass Plains are an 'Epic Location' - no Hero Points may be used or given. a. HOT – 160F. Endure elements = uncomfortable (feels like 90F). Hmerrin, Nira b. BRIGHT - intense daylight with no shade or shadows c. Windy – all flying skill checks are -5 and missile weapon attacks are -2 d. Cloud Racer. 120F. Endure elements = comfortable
RobC - Nira Wynvyre -- AC 29/15/25 -- CMD 24 -- HP 138/138 -- DarkVision/ArcaneSight/SeeInvis Tuesday September 26th, 2023 8:08:30 AM
With one of the creatures now on a different course, Nira dismisses her Repulsion spell and flies 60ft back towards the ship
Highlight to display spoiler: {One phone. Apologies for short post}
Yrûl Töar (Nick K) HP:140/140 AC:29 F:12 R:29 W:9. CMD:32 Tuesday September 26th, 2023 9:04:57 AM
Yrûl stared balefully at the sail. How dare it not move the ship! that was simply rude. she then shrugged and her usual smile returned. Worrying wouldn't change anything.
"Hey, that was mu great idea for the day." She announced. "Turns out, it wasn't actually that great; so if anyone has another one, that would be super awesome. Oh wait! I can throw a few butterflies at one, but I guess they only tickle it a bit. Anyone got any salt? A lot of salt." The truth was Yrûl was severely handicapped in these conditions; more so than anyone else. She hoped that she was in fact the weakest of The Traders, or whatever it was they called themselves. She really was dreadful at remembering names. All she could think of was to wait and summon darkness. At least then she'd be able to move more effectively.
She wondered: inside the giant slug's mouth it was pretty dark, maybe she could move there too. It wasn't something she was keen to investigate. At this rate, she'd likely need rescuing. She pulled out her weapons.
"Okay guys, I hope that you're both feeling stabby, because we might have to go 'talk' to those big hungry slugs. Oh? What's that Snicket? You're going to draw more blood than Dabs? Now, let's not start to bicker. Come on, you know that never ends well." The conversation with her weapons always made her smile, even in the face of grave peril.
OOC: Holding action this round. Using Darkness 20'r next if the Giant Slugs get too close for comfort.
Gaffer - Courtney - HP: 164/164 AC: 32(T:18/FF:27) CMD:35) Tuesday September 26th, 2023 9:55:58 AM
Gaffer isn't ready to give up on moving the ship, they need it with the time limit they are under.
"Let's go for something a little bigger. Though I wish the crew would set about unfurling the other sales."
----- Cast: Control Winds; Causing a blast of wind, in a 720 foot cylinder, with the ship at one edge, to blow forward along the ships route. Unsure how much it takes to move the craft, he tries to judge based on the journey so far, but if he cannot, wind strength of a Severe Wind to start.
Ramirez (BrianZ) AC32/20/25 HP 150/150 CMD32 Tuesday September 26th, 2023 7:37:19 PM Tommiknuckles, how much time do we have before they get here? We can all help with the sails if needed.
Ramirez gets out his bow. If Gaffer's wind spell doesn't work, they were either going to have to abandon the ship or start 'convincing' the Ranthoms with pointy stuff. He hopes he doesn't have to shoot the creatures.
OOC- apologies, I forgot to add the save DC to my last post
Hmerrin (MikeK)(HP 217/217 AC:34 T:21 FF:28 CMD:43) Endure Elements Tuesday September 26th, 2023 8:13:52 PM
"Guess we're doing this the hard way."
Hmerrin guides the carpet on a circular course, bringing in down near the midpoint of ranthom two. Here's hoping these things don't care about his approach.
--- Fly to ground level at AF/AG 16. Axes out.
In Effect Haste
Yrûl Töar (Nick K) HP:140/140 AC:29 F:12 R:29 W:9. CMD:32 Wednesday September 27th, 2023 5:28:36 AM
Yrûl watched, fascinated as the heroes swung into action. Now, had this situation required some dancing, she knew just the person to help out. Sadly those giant slugs did not seem the sort to appreciate a good dance.
(OOC: Out all day today and due to time zone differences, likely won't get to respond further until tomorrow.)
Danko Pureheart (Yves) -- AC 29 (33) -- CMD 36 -- HP 132/132 Wednesday September 27th, 2023 6:39:11 AM
Danko smiles seeing that the wall of force spell worked. He takes bearings and casts a second wall.
--------- Wall of force 20'/75'
r/s23 angling south west, making sure to miss the bow of the ship
Great Ranthoms! rd 4 - DM Steve K Wednesday September 27th, 2023 7:58:11 AM
Nira dismisses her Repulsion spell and flies 60ft back towards the ship
Yrûl pulls out her weapons, feeling stabby. The drow is balefully aware of how limited she is against these particular opponents. Get her some shadows, and …
Gaffer isn't ready to give up on moving the ship, and goes for something bigger: a Control Winds spell! The druid makes commanding passes with his hands and speaks to the air around him, and in seconds, the air around the ship goes from calm to severe winds blowing hard! The back end of the Cloud Racer is on the back edge of the wind, but a radius of 720 feet covers a LOT of area, and several things happen at once. The spinnaker bells with a popping sound and the Cloud Racer jerks hard as it begins to move forward.
In seconds the ship has moved 20 feet, and Yrul, Gaffer, Desdichado, Ramirez, and Danko must make an Acrobatics Check DC 15 or be thrown prone. They notice none of the crew or Tommiknuckles are thrown because they all instinctually have one hand grabbing a part of the ship. (If any hero has Profession: Sailor, your acrobatics check is -1 per Sailor modifier)
Nira and Hmerrin are caught in the severe wind, but being medium sized, they can still make headway without too much impairment.
All missle weapon attacks, perception, and flying checks are at -4 penalty.
Ramirez asks Tommiknuckles on how much time they have, but with the severe wind, the Captain can’t hear the bard 55’ away. The Bard gets out his bow.
Hmerrin gets ready to do this the hard way, guiding the carpet on a circular course, bringing in down near the midpoint of ranthom two. The beast ignores Hmerrin’s approach.
Danko smiles seeing that the wall of force spell was created. Whether it works hasn’t been tested yet. If he isn’t prone (see above), he takes bearings and casts a second wall, this time angling south-west to miss the stern of the ship.
…………………
Tommiknuckles whoops and grabs a leather megaphone, shouting directions. Even if anyone can’t hear over the wind, Desdichado is right next to the Captain and can relay what he is saying to the others via Telepathy. Yrul is close enough to hear. ”BELAY THAT! STOW THE RAFTS, UP ALOFT!! YOU!!! DRUID!!! MEET ME AT THE MAINSAIL!!! The Captain scampers down the aftcastle and makes his way forward, megaphone in hand and shouting at the crew.
Crew scramble to obey, the sudden reversal of orders bringing on some good natured grumbling.
The Great Ranthoms ignore everything frantically happening around them and continue eating. Continue moving. Another 50 feet forward. Ranthom 2 slides by Hmerrin completely oblivious, and the Fighter gets an AOO.
................ COMBAT ROUNDS
Map in email. NOTE: Be aware that the Grid Numbers have changed!! I didn't make the map so the Cloud Racer could move forward (oops), so instead of the ship moving, the map is moving underneath it.
............
8:01.03 (endure elements/rose's ends at 22:00)
The Sargrass Plains are an 'Epic Location' - no Hero Points may be used or given. a. HOT – 160F. Endure elements = uncomfortable (feels like 90F). Hmerrin, Nira b. BRIGHT - intense daylight with no shade or shadows c. Windy – Perception, Flying and missile weapon attacks are -4 d. Cloud Racer. 120F. Endure elements = comfortable
As the heavy winds jerk the ship forward, Desdichado falls splayed out on the deck. He hears the captain's words and relays to the others. "Sounds like he's none to happy, Gaffer."
Danko Pureheart (Yves) -- AC 29 (33) -- CMD 36 -- HP 132/132 d20+14=24 ; Wednesday September 27th, 2023 5:25:19 PM
Previously,
Danko easily manages to keep his footing and casts another wall of force..
and now..
Danko stands true and watches events unravel.
---------- Acrabotic roll- 24
Haste Mage armor
Gaffer - Courtney - HP: 164/164 AC: 32(T:18/FF:27) CMD:35) d20+2=14 ; Wednesday September 27th, 2023 6:12:09 PM "Sorry captain!" Gaffer calls out as he tumbles backward onto the deck. "I promise to try to make it up to you, but I think a little bit further forward and those creatures can all pass us by." He hopes, not really sure that precise positioning of the ship will be an option.
Climbing back to his feet, he braces against the wind and moves towards the captain.
----- Move: Stand Up Action: Move to G15
Ramirez (BrianZ) AC32/20/25 HP 150/150 CMD32 d20+18=35 ; Wednesday September 27th, 2023 6:51:22 PM
Ramirez manages to keep steady when the wind suddenly rocked the boat. Noticing the crew were all trained to be ready for such things, he makes a mental note to try and keep hold of something in the future. Ramirez also makes his way to the mainsail by the Captain and Gaffer, ready to assist as needed.
Nice going Gaffer. Hopefully we can save the ship without killing those creatures.
The ship lurched. Yrûl, being the dancer that she was, pirouetted gracefully to hold her position. (Acrobatics: 43). It was impressively windy, but the sun and the wind confounded her efforts to see what was happening. Yet she wanted to help, if only in a small way.
"Do you want me to climb and free a sail?" She asked optimistically. She'd never done anything like that before, but how hard could it be? She could climb. She could untie knots. What more did they need?
Hmerrin (MikeK)(HP 217/217 AC:34 T:21 FF:28 CMD:43) Endure Elements d20+35=47 ; d8+16=18 ; d20+31=32 ; Wednesday September 27th, 2023 8:29:29 PM
Hmerrin takes a swing as the ranthom glides past. Hit AC47 for 18 hp damage
Not expecting the massive creature to move quite that fast, he chases after. Between the haste spell and his boots he covers the gap quickly. Lifting his battleaxe, he swings just as his foot comes down on a rut. The fighter stumbles badly, barely keeping upright.
------- AoO above.
Move to V19. Power attack misses. Nat 1
In Effect Haste: +1 bonus on attack rolls and a +1 dodge bonus to AC and Reflex saves
RobC - Nira Wynvyre -- AC 29/15/25 -- CMD 24 -- HP 138/138 -- DarkVision/ArcaneSight/SeeInvis Wednesday September 27th, 2023 8:59:12 PM
Nira flies back and lands on the ship. She's a little concerned that by moving forward too much that they will collide with ranthom #1. Gaffer has the right of it. Just a little bit ought to do it. If the vessel picks up too much speed then she hopes the Captain steers to port.
One of these days she's going to have to learn the Wall of Force spell. That thing sure if versatile.
Great Ranthoms! rd 5 - DM Steve K Thursday September 28th, 2023 7:18:21 AM
Desdichado falls splayed out on the deck. It takes him a full six seconds to get back up on his two feet.
Danko stands true and watches events unravel.
Gaffer climbs to his feet and begins to apologize to the Captain, but the gnome waves it words aside. With huge orange sideburns flying, he shouts over the wind. ”Apologize? For saving my Cloud Racer? Don’t be ridiculous! But with you controlling the wind, I need you standing beside me to direct you. There are shoals ahead that will kill her as effectively as a Ranthom!” Tommiknuckles is very happy and excited, but also worried about the next several immediate hazards.
Ramirez manages to keep steady when the wind suddenly rocked the boat. Noticing the crew were all trained to be ready for such things, he makes a mental note to try and keep hold of something in the future. Ramirez also makes his way to the mainsail by the Captain and Gaffer, ready to assist as needed.
Yrûl, being the dancer that she was, pirouetted gracefully to hold her position. She wants to help, even in a small way, and asks about climbing aloft.
Hmerrin takes a swing as the Great Ranthom glides past, damaging the creature. It wiggles like a horse dislodging a fly, like it noticed but not so much as to stop the very important job of moving and eating. He runs across the ground to get into another position to strike. Having landed and running off the Carpet of Flying, the object is no longer in possession and is taken by the wind, flipping and flopping across the Sargrass!
Nira flies back and lands on the ship, watching the angles with Great Ranthom #1, growing a little concerned. ……………
Tommiknuckles continues to speak with Gaffer. “Now, is this a spell that you can keep changing, or something I need to alter my sails?” Getting the assurance from the druid that, at least within the 720’ radius, he can alter strength and direction, the Captain grins. ”Right. Keep the same speed, but push two points port. That way!” Tommiknuckles points with a bladed palm about 30 degrees to the left.
The crew scramble up lines to the sails as easy as a cat walking across a barn floor. Yrûl can see that what they are doing is a lot more complicated than she first thought. There are many, many ropes, and they loosen some, tighten others, and leave others alone. A thought strikes her that it would be similar to someone who knows how to pirouette and leap, but not when to do so in a set dance. That dancer would mess everyone else up.
Great Ranthom #1, unimpeded, continues eating at an angle to its original course, and putting it in danger of collision if the Cloud Racer continues forward.
Great Ranthom #2 and #3 are stopped by the barrier of the Wall of Force and don’t move forward. They do however, eat the Wall of Force! Two 15x15’ gaps appear in the wall, and Nira can immediately see from her vantage of the aftcastle, the jaws of the Great Ranthoms are magical: it is a Disintegrate Spell! The Great Ranthoms will move forward next round.
................ COMBAT ROUNDS
Map in email. NOTE: Be aware that the Grid Numbers have changed!! I didn't make the map so the Cloud Racer could move forward (oops), so instead of the ship moving, the map is moving underneath it.
Ranthom 2 AC 28 Dam 18dam ............
8:01.05 (endure elements/rose's ends at 22:00)
The Sargrass Plains are an 'Epic Location' - no Hero Points may be used or given. a. HOT – 160F. Endure elements = uncomfortable (feels like 90F). Hmerrin, Nira b. BRIGHT - intense daylight with no shade or shadows c. Windy – Perception, Flying and missile weapon attacks are -4 d. Cloud Racer. 120F. Endure elements = comfortable
Yrûl Töar (Nick K) HP:140/140 AC:29 F:12 R:29 W:9. CMD:32 Thursday September 28th, 2023 8:16:15 AM
"What would happen if say, someone burnt or destroyed the grass in front of them? I mean, they seem VERY keen on eating, so if there was nothing to eat, wouldn't they turn to find food?" Yrû suggested. It did occur to her that every thing that she'd though of so far had drawn a blank and that by destroying the grass in front of them might just facilitate faster movement. Still, she was trying to be helpful. That made her smile: it was very important to try and not give up!
Desdichado (Ryan) [HP:211/211; AC:34/15/32 - CMD 36] Thursday September 28th, 2023 6:19:08 PM
Desdichado holds onto the ship, watching as the Ranthoms continue closer. "This is gonna be a close one," he thinks.
He sees Hmerrin jump down to attack the beast. "Hey - what about Hmerrin!" he cries, "It looks like he's lost the carpet - any way to get him back on this ship?"
Ramirez (BrianZ) AC32/20/25 HP 150/150 CMD32 Thursday September 28th, 2023 7:07:29 PM Nira, can you get the flying carpet?
Ramirez considers his options. He won't be able to use his bow effectively in the high wind of the spell. He puts it away, and starts a bardsong. hoping to help Tommiknuckles concentrate.
A rousing and rowdy song of drinking and sailing ensues.
Actions: start inspire competence on Tommiknuckles
Well, as long as we're here, let's see if we can get its attention.
--- Full Attack, Power Attack on Ranthom 2 Btax 1 hits ac 40 for 34 hp damage Btax 2 hits ac 33 for 31 hp damage Btax 3 miss (ac23) Btax 4 hits ac 31 for 30 hp damage Hdax 1 hits ac 35 for 26 hp damage Hdax 2 hits ac 38 for 31 hp damage Haste hits ac 42 for 32 hp damage Rend for 18 hp damage
Total 203 hp damage
In Effect Haste: +1 bonus on attack rolls and a +1 dodge bonus to AC and Reflex saves
Gaffer - Courtney - HP: 164/164 AC: 32(T:18/FF:27) CMD:35) Thursday September 28th, 2023 10:21:20 PM
Gaffer is following Tommiknuckles' instructions and, grabbing hold of the main sail for balance, shifts the wind a small amount towards port, hoping he gets the measure correct.
He mostly keeps his focus on the ship but can't help but be distracted for a moment as Hmerrin puts on an impressive display of axe work against a Ranthorm. "If that doesn't get there attention, I can't imagine what would. Maybe a giant pile of grass?"
----- Control Winds: 180 minutes; Severe Strength Blast. Barskin: +5 AC; 4 Hours
RobC - Nira Wynvyre -- AC 29/15/25 -- CMD 24 -- HP 138/138 -- DarkVision/ArcaneSight/SeeInvis Friday September 29th, 2023 3:07:36 AM "On it!" Nira heads off in pursuit of the flying carpet as fast as she can go. She has the same tailwind as the rug, but a lot more propulsion thanks to that Haste spell.
---------------- Full round action: Fly/Run after the rug. 40ft+30ft(Haste)=70ftx4Run=280ft after the rug
Danko Pureheart (Yves) -- AC 29 (33) -- CMD 36 -- HP 132/132 Friday September 29th, 2023 6:34:46 AM
With a look of great disappointment, Danko reinforces the force wall.
------------- Wall of force M19 to M28 20' high, as thick a wall towards the ship as a 15th level sorcerer can make it No math brain today- the total wall can be 15x (10x10') blocks
Gray Stinking Substance - DM Steve K 4d8+30=43 ; 4d8+30=46 ; 4d8+30=47 ; Friday September 29th, 2023 7:26:34 AM
Yrûl suggests burning the 'Grass in front of a Great Ranthom to get it to change direction. Tommiknuckles speculates that that could do it, and one of the crew pipes up that he once heard a story of how some Manfri changed a Great Ranthom's course by burning a large area except for one path of 'Grasses. "It's said they used magic to control the burn and not cause a wildfire."
Desdichado calls out for Operation Carpet Recovery, and Ramirez focuses on Nira to do the deed. The small elf girl obliges, beginning her flight.
Danko casts another Wall of Force to further delay the 2 Ranthoms for a few seconds, enough for the Cloud Racer to get out of the vicinity anyways.
Hmerrin, thanks to Danko's Wall of Force, has an unmoving object to carve into with his two axes, and carve he does! The beast opens its mouth wide, spewing 'Grasses in a pile in front of it, and pushes its forelegs against the ground so half of its bulk is in the air, and turns towards the cause of so much pain...
(ooc: the map is set so perfectly, the DM has to see this through...)
A colossal worm, a veritable wall of flesh, a (normally) unmovable, unstoppable force... Tramples the space Hmerrin is occupying. The fighter will need to be quick or get crushed into the sward! (DC 27 Reflex save or take 43 bludgeoning damage from trample.)
Ranthom 2 streaks off at twice its normal speed, due north, which rams it into Ranthom 1 who is busily munching its own business at an angle. Teeth in its posterior makes Ranthom 1 jump and turn, regurgitating a pile of 'Grass and thumping with a tremendous shock... South! Which in turn streaks right into the rear of Ranthom 3 who is still trying to get through Danko's third Wall of Force. The comedy of events repeats: butt chew, jump and thump in the direction of the hurt, a Great Ranthom streaking north while leaving a pile of stinking 'Grass behind.
The effect is two- fold. The first is with one blow, all three ranthoms are now on north or south headings which puts the Cloud Racer out of danger of Ranthom destruction. The second is that Hmerrin has to avoid ALL THREE Ranthoms! (Hmerrin make 2 more Reflex Saves DC 27 or take 46 and 47 damage bludgeoning damage from trample respectively .)
..............
With Gaffer next to Tommiknuckles controlling the winds, the Cloud Racer moves out of range of the Ranthoms in a West-North-West direction until 720' away at the extent of the druidic spell. There, the winds luff once more, and the Captain holds while waiting for Hmerrin and Nira to catch up. Nira collects the Flying Carpet, and Hmerrin notices Ranthom 2 and 3 also expelled a very smelly and greasy substance out of its rear end, about the size of a Halfling. Although moist, even the insects stay away from it...
.........
END COMBAT ROUNDS
............
8:01.05 (endure elements/rose's ends at 22:00)
The Sargrass Plains are an 'Epic Location' - no Hero Points may be used or given. a. HOT – 160F. Endure elements = uncomfortable (feels like 90F). Hmerrin, Nira b. BRIGHT - intense daylight with no shade or shadows c. Windy – Perception, Flying and missile weapon attacks are -4 d. Cloud Racer. 120F. Endure elements = comfortable
Yrûl Töar (Nick K) HP:140/140 AC:29 F:12 R:29 W:9. CMD:32 d20=2 ; Friday September 29th, 2023 10:19:54 AM
"Oh, I hope he's okay." Said the colourful surface drow as she hurried to the side of the ship to get a better view of what had happened to Hmerrin. Next time, she'd definitely have to go with him and help; provided there was a next time. Those things were immense. If all three had squished him, he'd be paste! She sighed softly as she remained watching optimistically. That watching however, was far from easy. It was just too bright!
(Perception: 25)
Hmerrin (MikeK)(HP 171/217 AC:34 T:21 FF:28 CMD:43) Endure Elements d20+18=38 ; d20+18=22 ; d20+18=36 ; Friday September 29th, 2023 5:19:36 PM
Hmerrin fully expected the ranthom to turn. He dances gracefully away from the creature's falling bulk. [Reflex 38 success]
And, it looks like the ranthom could have expelled something interesting....
There is a second bellow and a second thundering of the ground. The fighter turns. "Oh, sh.." He is able to avoid its mouth, but not the rest. The massive beast squashes him into the ground. [Reflex 22 fail]
A third scream. A third thundering. Well, Hmerrin's mom didn't raise any slow thinking kids. He doesn't bother looking. He just starts rolling sideways for all he's worth. The third ranthom thunders through a few inches away. [Reflex 36 save]
Glancing around, he sees the coast is clear. He rolls over on his back and breathes carefully. "Ow."
{Who's bright idea was this again?} he sends to the group. {Oh, someone ask Tommiknuckles if Ranthom Poo is worth anything. It seems to be repelling the local insect life.}
The fighter slowly gets to his feet, and waits for someone to pick him up.
RobC - Nira Wynvyre -- AC 29/15/25 -- CMD 24 -- HP 138/138 -- DarkVision/ArcaneSight/SeeInvis Friday September 29th, 2023 8:18:42 PM
The carpet is too heavy and awkward for Nira to carry, so she sits on it and tries to steer it towards Hmerrin.
"You know, if Yrul is going to be travelling with us a while we should look into getting her included in the telepathic bond" she sends to the others.
Gaffer - Courtney - HP: 164/164 AC: 32(T:18/FF:27) CMD:35) Friday September 29th, 2023 10:07:11 PM
Gaffer smiles at Tommiknuckles as they clear the winds. "Is this how most of your days go?"
To Nira he agrees. "They've been welcoming to us, I'm happy to do the same. We should also properly fill them in on the dangers we expect."
Once they are underway once more, Gaffer returns to the front of the ship to keep watch again.
----- Barkskin: +5 AC; 2 Hours
Yrûl Töar (Nick K) HP:140/140 AC:29 F:12 R:29 W:9. CMD:32 Saturday September 30th, 2023 7:02:35 AM
"Oh! He survived. That was really impressive." Yrûl cooed in awe. In response to Gaffer's question, she looked in anticipation at Tommiknuckles. Would she have to be ready for more excitement? If not, she was seriously contemplating returning below decks where it was cooler and less bright.
Ramirez (BrianZ) AC32/20/25 HP 150/150 CMD32 Saturday September 30th, 2023 9:21:44 PM
Ramirez is glad that Hmerrin is ok, and that the ship was saved. Well, things seem to be more interesting out here than I expected. Tommiknuckles, Hmerrin is asking about the effluence from the Ranthoms. Any idea what it is?
Danko Pureheart (Yves) -- AC 29 (33) -- CMD 36 -- HP 132/132 Sunday October 1st, 2023 6:48:51 AM
{ Some glad I leaned that Force wall spell.... } He sends to everyone
Danko watches Nira's rescue mission and prepares in his mind a teleport spell.... just in case.
---------------- OOC - Hi. Going to the land of no internet for a few days. Someone please post for Danko. Back Wednesday night
Desdichado (Ryan) [HP:211/211; AC:34/15/32 - CMD 36] Sunday October 1st, 2023 12:54:22 PM
Desdichado watches Hmerrin's amazing display on the ground. He also hopes when Hmerrin gets back on the ship he'll stay leeward until he can get cleaned up at least.
Origins of a Tall Tale - DM Steve K Monday October 2nd, 2023 7:13:19 AM
Nira is faster than a carpet rolling across windy ground, and it really helps when Gaffer changes the wind so the carpet is basically following the Cloud Racer. Once there, the carpet is too heavy for the strength-challenged Theruge to man-handle, but it is obedient to her once she touches it: she flies to Hmerrin.
There, Hmerrin is only slightly squished thanks to his mobility, and is able to get back on the carpet himself with little trouble. A mental conversation turns into a physical one, and Tommiknuckles and crew become excited. "That has to be Sargrass Ambergris: highly prized for perfume and repellants. Each is worth a fortune! We need to collect that with some barrels, and I'll give you your 2,000 gold back."
Know Local DC25 Highlight to display spoiler: {The Sargrass Ambergris is worth MUCH more than 2,000 gold.}
Sense Motive DC20 Highlight to display spoiler: {it feels like Tommiknuckles is looking to make a fortune.}
The Captain launches a pair of rafts, each with four crew members with gloves and shovels, and two wooden barrels lined in wax. It takes them a half-hour to collect the three small piles, then return to the Cloud Racer.
When Hmerrin returns, the crew give Gaffer, Nira, and Danko three huzzahs, but reserves the most enthusiastic welcome for the fighter. - you re-directed three ranthoms in one blow! - the way you dodged.. - and then he went *spin*, and then he went *roll* and... - that was awesome! - wait til I tell my children THIS one! - wait til you know where your children are!
.....................
The Tide also seem pleased with the outcome, and the irresistible positivity and enthusiasm of Yrûl, even as constrained as she is in the present environment. There is talk about officially welcoming the drow girl as a member of the Tide, adding her to the permanent telepathic bond of the group, and getting her to fully understand what the team is doing in the Sargrass and so far from Dirt City. With a half-hour to bring her up to speed, now seems the perfect time for the heroes to do so!
............
8:31.05 (endure elements/rose's ends at 22:00)
The Sargrass Plains are an 'Epic Location' - no Hero Points may be used or given. a. HOT – 160F. Endure elements = uncomfortable (feels like 90F). Hmerrin, Nira b. BRIGHT - intense daylight with no shade or shadows c. Windy – Perception, Flying and missile weapon attacks are -4 d. Cloud Racer. 120F. Endure elements = comfortable
Yrûl Töar (Nick K) HP:140/140 AC:29 F:12 R:29 W:9. CMD:32 Monday October 2nd, 2023 8:02:45 AM
Yrûl bounced up to give Hmerrin a hug and a warm smile. She stopped and settled for a broad grin. She really didn't want to get her colourful clothes covered in the stuff that currently stained Hmerrin's armour. She paid no real heed to the machinations or otherwise of Tommiknuckles and the crew.
"Maybe next time take me with you." She teased.
(No ranks in either skill listed)
Hmerrin (MikeK)(HP 171/217 AC:34 T:21 FF:28 CMD:43) Endure Elements d20+7=9 ; Monday October 2nd, 2023 7:08:13 PM
[Sense Motive 9]
"Perfume?" Hmerrin wonders incredulously. "Well, takes all kinds."
The fighter has no issues with Tommiknuckles and crew pausing to reel in the, what was it? Ambergris.
The crew seems really impressed. The fighter gives Dez an imperceptible, apologetic shrug and goes with it.
"Never a doubt!" he declares in response. "We had 'em the whole time!"
Desdichado (Ryan) [HP:211/211; AC:34/15/32 - CMD 36] Monday October 2nd, 2023 7:21:55 PM
"Well, it was a good show, Desdichado sends to Hmerrin.
He starts laying out the story with the rakshasa to Yrul, so that she knows what she's getting into.
(OOC: Nick, how much do you already know about the background here?)
Ramirez (BrianZ) AC32/20/25 HP 150/150 CMD32 d20+16=25 ; d20+20=27 ; Monday October 2nd, 2023 8:22:43 PM
kn local= 25, sense motive= 27
Ramirez passes along what he knows and suspects via the mindlink I think Tommiknuckles is looking to make some good money off that stuff, but I say let him keep it. Getting to our destination in time is more important than some coin.
RobC - Nira Wynvyre -- AC 29/15/25 -- CMD 24 -- HP 138/138 -- DarkVision/ArcaneSight/SeeInvis Monday October 2nd, 2023 10:51:31 PM
Nira, likewise, can tell something is up. She does her best to work out exactly how much this stuff is worth.
She speaks to the others over the telepathic link. "It's worth a lot more than 2,000gp and we were the ones that did all the work. I think we should at least get a cut. 1 full barrel at a minimum"
Nira doesn't have the scrolls handy to be able to include Yrul in the bond, but if the rogue will be travelling with them for a while, they'll see about getting the scrolls in the Catacombs at some point.
---------------- Knowl Local vs DC25: Autopass Sense Motive vs DC20: Autopass Appraise: 26
Desdichado (Ryan) [HP:211/211; AC:34/15/32 - CMD 36] Tuesday October 3rd, 2023 3:26:34 AM
(Posting for Danko)
Danko revels in the sailors' praise. But as soon as he discovers the captain is trying to hold out some of the potential earnings he is quick to insist th Tide get a larger share.
Yrûl Töar (Nick K) HP:140/140 AC:29 F:12 R:29 W:9. CMD:32 Tuesday October 3rd, 2023 5:30:43 AM
"Oh, that sounds ...um...challenging." Yrûl responded, clearly genuinely impressed at the tale. She then became somewhat lost in thought, wondering how she might have fared against such formidable odds. Clearly The Tide was a formidable group. She felt very lucky to have fallen in with them, particularly as they were all so pleasant and welcoming. She then smiled. Surely such heroic being loved to dance. What a silly thought, she chided herself: who didn't love to dance?
(OOC: I, just like Yrûl, know next to nothing, but am here to help - in whatever limited capacity possible:)
Gaffer - Courtney - HP: 164/164 AC: 32(T:18/FF:27) CMD:35) d20+13=22 ; Tuesday October 3rd, 2023 7:05:04 AM
Nobody else says it outloud so Gaffer looks over at Tommiknuckles and broaches, "Perhaps we can split the barrels instead, two for you and one for us, you wouldn't mind that would you?"
----- Sense Motive: 22
Byplays - DM Steve K Tuesday October 3rd, 2023 7:15:52 AM
Hmerrin puts on some bravado, or false modesty, or whatever he thinks would be a great way to end the story of Three With One Blow! The crew eat it up. They are going to be getting so many free drinks by telling this in every tavern from Zaran City to Hook City in the next couple of years!!
The Tide agree to add Yrûl to their telepathic bond, but Nira has to get to the Catacombs first. That's a Promise.
There is some talk about filling in Yrûl on why the Tide are actually here. While the DM was hoping a Player would want to lay it out in their own words, the benevolent DM doesn't want to waste posts by not moving the story ahead. So Yrûl learns and the other Tide members remember that:
The heroes are called "The Tide" and are from Dirt City in the Northern Continent. They learned Rakshasa were infiltrating the highest levels of Dirt City leadership, and ended a plan to make the Wold into a meat-breeding ranch for a plane full of Rakshaka. But the Rakshasa have promised to return after the heroes are dead. The heroes are certain they need to fix this once and for all!
A great search for the Rakshasa home plane led the heroes to a wizard in Fargunia. They confronted the wizard's ghost and the wizard’s dragon ally. In exchange for retrieving a dragon egg from Fae Skiemir, the dragon gave them protective talismans to confront the Maharaja (the leader of all Rakshasa), and told them the location of the Gate was at OddHolme in the Sargrass Plains, but will only be there for 24 hours!
Since they left the dragon's lair, they have teleported to Plateau City, greater teleported to Rattledam, met Yrûl, and are now on the Cloud Racer going to OddHolme. They still don't know where in OddHolme is the Gate or how to use it once they find it!
Several of the Tide realize 2000gp is waaaay under-bidding the heroes. Nira's knowledge of local customs enables her to appraise the smelly lumps of Sargrass Ambergris at more than 50,000gp... each!! Danko hears THAT and insists the Tide get a larger share. Tommiknuckles is a good guy at heart, just a little greedy, and seems actually sheepish that he tried to pull one over on the heroes. He pays the fair market value to each hero in small bags of gems that Nira can tell is a fair exchange.
The pickup of the Sargrass Ambergris is nearly complete. Tommiknuckles oversees the stowing of the barrels and rafts, and the crew leap aloft to reset sails. "Thus and thus!", the orders come fast from the gnome, making his massive orange sideburns wiggle. .............
Heroes can add to the stories, ask some final questions, or whatever other planning they may want to do.
Each Hero gets a bag with 35,000gp in diamonds, bloodstone, hematite, and black tourmaline.
............
8:41.05 (endure elements/rose's ends at 22:00)
The Sargrass Plains are an 'Epic Location' - no Hero Points may be used or given. a. HOT – 160F. Endure elements = uncomfortable (feels like 90F). Hmerrin, Nira b. BRIGHT - intense daylight with no shade or shadows c. Windy – Perception, Flying and missile weapon attacks are -4 d. Cloud Racer. 120F. Endure elements = comfortable
Yrûi Töar (Nick K) HP:140/140 AC:29 F:12 R:29 W:9. CMD:32 Tuesday October 3rd, 2023 11:08:01 AM
She'd tried, but Yrûi really was far from convinced that her paltry efforts deserved any reward at all, let alone the hefty bag of gems.
"Probably Hmerrin should have my share." She offered with a cheery grin, clearly in no way troubled by parting with such wealth. In response to the story her smile faltered somewhat.
"Hm, these Rakkies, aren't they sort of super manipulative shape-changing tigery people? It's just that ...well, honestly, I'm just not all that ...um...resilient when it comes to temptation. If you know what i mean. You know that whole 'Will of Iron' thing? Yeah, well, I don't have it so much. Just so you know." It was only a minor point surely and a dead Rakkie couldn't do the whole mind-control-possession thing. Plus, theyd actually have to see her to target her....wouldn't they? She quickly realise that she actually knew very little about the Rakshasas, or Rakkies, as she'd christened them.
Desdichado (Ryan) [HP:211/211; AC:34/15/32 - CMD 36] Tuesday October 3rd, 2023 12:35:27 PM
"I mainly call 'em 'weirdos' or somesuch thing," Desdichado replies to Yrul, "They basically have two modes: manipulation and domination. Given that they hate us so much, there isn't much temptation happening. I'm pretty sure you wouldn't be tempted by the kinds of things we've seen them up to. It's beyond depravity. These aren't your typical 'grant your wildest dreams if you do this one little favor' types of outsiders."
"But you're likely to come across plenty of people with broken wills whose lives have been destroyed by these creeps. The mind control we've seen has mostly been for those people."
"Anyway, the short of it is: don't believe a word they say; they can only be harmed by blessed, piercing weapons; they have strong magic resistance."
He suddenly realizes that Yrul doesn't have one of Vyrnix's Talismans to be able to damage the Maharaja. "Uh, maybe you can just be REALLY good at hiding during that fight?"
Desdichado (Ryan) [HP:211/211; AC:34/15/32 - CMD 36] Tuesday October 3rd, 2023 12:58:14 PM
(Posting for Danko)
Danko eyes the jewels suspiciously. "Only 35,000? I think you might still be holding out on me. Ah well, I can get up to many shenanigans with this!"
Hmerrin (MikeK)(HP 171/217 AC:34 T:21 FF:28 CMD:43) Endure Elements Tuesday October 3rd, 2023 5:48:20 PM
Hmerrin chuckles at Yrul's attempt to give him her share. "No, if you're coming with us, you can help most by being as fully equipped as possible. Keep it and buy yourself a nice "more willpower" magic item. Or two. Or whatever you need."
Dez's comment about Yrul not having an amulet is an excellent point. She's unlikely to be nearly as protected.
"Oh, yeah, sure, I'm kind of good at the whole hiding thing, but couldn't someone just bless Snicket and Dabz? They are both pointy and would just love to be blessed." Countered Yrul with her usual optimism.
Ramirez (BrianZ) AC32/20/25 HP 150/150 CMD32 Tuesday October 3rd, 2023 7:29:30 PM Yrul, maybe we can find you an upgrade at Oddholme. Or if there is enough of a window after we find the gate, a quick trip to the Catacombs. Anyway, keep the money, the scroll for the mindlink spell is pricey.
Gaffer - Courtney - HP: 164/164 AC: 32(T:18/FF:27) CMD:35) Wednesday October 4th, 2023 12:07:31 AM "I've also been assuming that the gate will be guarded. Or did somebody tell us that? Either way, we've a few problems to solve ahead of us."
He wonders how big Oddholme will be, and the gate itself, and where it will take them, and how many Raksha.... Gaffer starts feeling a little nervous about the rest of their trip and goes back to keeping watch, thinking ahead is overrated.
Yrûi Töar (Nick K) HP:140/140 AC:29 F:12 R:29 W:9. CMD:32 Wednesday October 4th, 2023 2:25:00 AM
"Wow. That's very generous. Thanks." She then spoke to her weapons, both neatly tucked behind her back in her belt. "Did you hear that, guys? Blessings! isn't that exciting? I don't think you two have ever been blessed before. Come on, you need it. Admit it."
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